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Hi.

Welcome to our blog! Here you will find moments from every day life- from favorite books to meal planning and the adventures of two sisters living in different zip codes.

empties

empties

You might be asking yourself what are empties. I had the same thought when I began reading blogs and seeing the posts or videos pop up. Once I started reading/watching, empties quickly became my favorite due to the ability to be acceptably nebby (aka nosey for the non-Pittsburghers). This is my first attempt of sharing nine products that I have used up since January. Most of them I loved and I share my non-beauty expertise opinion. Let me know what you think!

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ncLA So Rich ($18) I first discovered this cuticle oil either through a Glossybox or Popsugar Must Have subscription. I loved the easy dropper for precise application and non-greasy feel. I raved about it to Mama Bear and we placed an order. It comes in a variety of scents and you can use every last drop. I try to apply every night along with hand lotion to give my hands some much needed TLC.

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Drunk Elephant TLC Sukaria Babyfacial ($80) I was initially skeptical this face mask that I received using Sephora Beauty Insider points. The claim of a pro-quality AHA/BHA facial that resurfaces skin to reveal greater clarity, improved skin texture and tone, and a more youthful appearance seemed lofty to me. However, I noticed a significant difference in my face after the first use. My skin looked smoother, more radiant, and bouncy (if that makes sense). I haven’t purchased the full size but it is something that I will eventually save up for because I think it is well worth it.

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MAC Prep + Prime CC Powder (discontinued) I cannot tell you how many of these I have gone through in the past 5 years. This powder provided the perfect amount of coverage and was a breeze to apply every morning. MAC discontinued it and I was able to order 6 through HauteLook two years ago but this was my last one which is finished. I hope to find something comparable once I use up my remaining BB cream from Tarte.

Living proof triple detox shampoo ($29) My self care Sunday routine includes a clarifying shampoo and hair mask. I initially tried this triple detox shampoo through a free Living proof offer. It blew away my expectations. It smelled good, removed build up of hair products and left my hair hydrated. I have been using several travel sizes (again through Beauty Insider Points) but am running low. I am hoping that Sephora will have another 20% off sale so I can purchase the full size.

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Candelles Teakwood & Tayberry ($25) I have shared my love for Candelles before and have an empty candle jar on a monthly basis. The candles have great burning length with even, well balanced scents. This teakwood & tayberry is part of their black label collection which is a more chic vessel. I have not met a scent that I haven’t loved and seriously have a stockpile in our linen closet.

AG Hair Remedy Spray ($26) I received this from Mama Reed when I was desperate for hair products. Unlike some other sprays I have used, my hair did not feel sticky or crunchy. It did a nice job adding texture to my hair while also helping with frizz.

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Tula Hydrating Day & Night Cream ($52) I have consistently been using face moisturizer for the past 9 years. I finally bought into when I realized my skin was less oily when it was adequately hydrated. In the spirit of homesteading without the dirt, I finally opened this cream that I had won in a giveaway. It quickly absorbed into my skin leaving my face deeply moisturized. I also felt that it didn’t make me look dewy that I have noticed with other creams. Also, I may have convinced myself that it helped clear up my skin as well. Once I work through the rest of my “stock,” this will be a top contender for my next moisturizer to purchase.

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L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Eyes ($80) Oh eye cream. I truly don’t know if I believe the hype because I have never noticed a difference after using it. When the esthetician who did my facial in February instructed me to use it twice a day, my belief ever so slightly increased. This was another Mama Bear item (likely because she wasn’t using it). I never complain because I would likely not spend $80 on eye cream. It didn’t irritate my eyes and lasted several months. I don’t know what I should be looking for in an eye cream so I am on the fence if I would purchase this. I am still working through samples that I have had so it’ll be awhile before it is on my shopping list.

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Glossier Lash Slick ($16) When I first read about this mascara on Instagram, it was described as giving you the look of false eye lashes. I decided to purchase it for the first time while in Chicago at a Glossier pop up. I put it on as soon as I returned to the hotel and was very impressed by the length and separation I was able to achieve. I have purchased it two more times due to the quality (it is cruelty free!), price point and easy removal. If you are looking for a fuller/thicker lash look, this probably isn’t your mascara just fyi.

five simple things #14

five simple things #14

five simple things #13

five simple things #13