This autumn is speeding by, which is particularly sad because 2018’s fall rhapsody has been a stunning one. I don’t quite know what makes the leaves look so rich and colourful – maybe it was the lingering summer and quick turn into chilly temperatures, but I’m trying not to overthink it and simply enjoy it.
With everything happening in my life currently, I’m taking some more “me-time” to really savour life. Seriously. Less running around like a chicken with her head cut off and more bubblebaths and quality time with friends and family, not to mention snuggles with my loved ones (four-legged ones included).
As I take stock of the fall months, I realize there are four key things that have really been making me happy and/or bettering my life all around right now, and I want to spread that happiness with you all too.
Reese
We call him Hurricane Reese for a reason. Our little Bernedoodle puppy tears through our house at lightening speed. He hates toilet paper and enjoys shredding it to pieces on our bright red rug. Hiding in the mountain of pillows on our bed has become his favourite past time. No matter how naughty he is, he’s too cute to get annoyed at. And the little guy is a master snuggler and cuddler who always lifts my spirits when I’m feeling a bit down in the dumps.
My husband gets jealous at our marathon cuddle sessions, but he’s a real life teddybear who makes my heart swell! ARGH. I LOVE HIM!
Elta MD Skincare UV Clear Moisturizer
Finding a sunscreen that doesn’t make me look grey and ashy has probably been the most difficult task of my beauty blogging career. After enjoying a hydrafacial at The Ottawa Skin Clinic, I told Marina, my very capable facialist that I had been on the hunt for a good sunscreen forever. She recommended Elta MD Skincare UV Clear Moisturizer which also doubles as an effective anti-acne treatment.
I have been using this sunscreen now for about two-three weeks and my skin looks amazing. No weird white cast from this product making me look more zombie-like than healthy, and that’s thanks to its 9.0% transparent zinc oxide. The formulation’s niacinamide (Vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid and lactic acid have completely cleared up my skin too. I also noticed that this moisturizer really makes my foundation and powder look great – not sure if Elta MD was going for this, but this product makes for a superb primer!
This product is fragrance, oil and paraben-free.
Going Dairy-Free
My brother-in-law and sister-in-law have been visiting Ottawa more frequently which is awesome, because they are two of the funniest and sunniest people on Earth. They are both super healthy too, and being in their mere presence makes me want to be a much, much, MUCH healthier person.
My sister-in-law Julie mentioned to me that she has been dairy-free now for a while and noticed a huge difference in the quality of her skin. Her son also went dairy-free which cleared up his allergies and eczema. Hearing that, I was game to give it a try.
So far, so good. I have replaced milk and cream with almond milk and really enjoying the results. I didn’t realize how much cheese I was eating until I lost 6lbs going dairy-free (I only take milk in my coffee). Now, all I have to do is give up my beloved ice cream. Well, maybe everything in moderation instead of quitting it cold turkey. Yeah. Moderation!
Fall Fashion
Ok – fall fashion is pretty much the only thing that keeps me going until summer, along with the promise of delicious margaritas on a sunny patio. Cozy sweaters, amazing coats, leather, cashmere, gorgeous boots, you name it. If it keeps you warm during the fall/winter months and looks good, I’m all over it.
This fall, I’ve fallen in love with snakeprint and officially had to cut myself off from buying any more of it. And don’t get me started on my burgeoning collection of baker boy and captain hats. Somebody…take my credit card away. PLEASE…FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!
These are the few little things that have been keeping a smile on my face during the cold weather months (oh yeah – The Hubs and his warm bear hugs make me swoon too). What is making you all warm and fuzzy this fall? Share in the comments!
Hey doll, I’m back! And I’m loving your sweater and coat. I’m so happy that it’s fall, but I feel like winter doesn’t want to let fall have her moment. I’m not here for winter — just fall, lol.
I love that you went dairy free. I recently became a vegetarian (almost three months ago) and I’m loving it. The main thing that keeps me from going vegan is dairy and by dairy I mean cheese, lol. I only use almond milk, and I don’t eat ice cream (unless it’s dairy free — yes, Halo Top has some good options, fyi). But I’m still trying to kick the cheese habit! 🙂
http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/11/chic-fall-style-with-ag-jeans-and-zappos.html
Author
Hi Cheryl!! LOL! I’m with you! Fall is not my favourite, but fall fashion sure is! And winter can go to hell. LOL! Our winters are absolutely punishing. Today is -17C!!!
I decided to go dairy-free because my allergies have been terrible. I wanted to see if it would make a difference. I am also cutting out eggs as my doctor mentioned that they are highly allergenic. Good job on becoming vegetarian! And I understand. I love cheese so much. I will allow myself a little taste every now and then, but it’s been weeks since I’ve had any. xoxo