Catching Up to Myself

I do pretty well at blathering on and on about stuff endlessly on my posts, and that's how I am in person too - quiet if you don't know me, chatterbox once you do. What I think I lack is following back up with you ladies regarding things I've vented about previously. I think I drop loads of whine and no resolutions. So please consider this a bit of a hold me accountable catch-up post for you all:

My retinol experience

Despite the face-on-fire burning sensation and crinkled red texture of my face for a few days, I can now grin, bear it, and will actually give retinol a thumbs up. Since it didn't kill me, I honestly think it has improved my complexion. However, take my red face as a example and heed these items if you plan on purchasing any retinol serums in the future (combined mix of advice from other retinol "victims", fashion mags, product reviews:

•  Do not exfoliate and retinol on the same days. In fact, don't exfoliate or retinol daily unless your derm has told you otherwise.

•  After applying retinol, wait at least 10 minutes for the product to absorb before putting on your moisturizer and regular products. Retinol and oil-based cosmetics no likey.

•  Definitely use SPF during the day.

•  If you feel your face burning after you apply retinol, it doesn't mean it's working. Burning means hurt. Hurt bad.

My health and diet

I'm currently using the MyFitnessPal app and though I know there are a ton of variables with calorie counters, it has proven to be a great guide so far in helping me manage my daily calories and track my workouts. Oh, I already had two donuts for breakfast? Probably shouldn't also have this piece of pie for dessert ... but it's only 200 calories ...

 

My mid-winter rut

To beat the lack of finding interest in anything, BF and I have agreed on a date activity at least once a week. We didn't want to setup a specific night or activity in case we end up feeling like we "have" to do it. The activity can be anything big or small - it is mostly a reminder for us to try new things.

Last weekend, we drove about an hour away (an hour because we got lost - this is what happens when BF thinks he's smarter than the GPS) and went to Marietta Diner which we heard about from Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives - I know for late lunch/early dinner, then right across the street to Krispy Kreme for dessert. It was not a big deal by any means, but it was food baby bliss, and out of the way enough to be considered activity-worthy.

BF and I have also agreed that when we see some cool activity or event come up on LivingGroupSocialOn, we just go ahead and buy the tickets and not hem and haw about what our schedules may be like - because of course we're not busy, we didn't buy the tickets!

My mice situation

Remember when I went eye-to-eye with my own little furry nemesis? And then kind of went "aww ..." No-kill traps purchased. Way more trips to non-descript field a few miles from the house made than we'd like to admit. Mice seem to have gotten the point and realized I will not be sewing them teeny tiny clothes this winter.

Do you find yourself always having to catch-up with yourself? How do you keep yourself honest with the stuff you mention to your friends or on your blog?

Cardigan: J.Crew factory ocelot (worn here - sim, sim)

Top: J.Crew vintage cotton (worn here - sim)

Skirt: Limited high-waist (worn here - sim, sim)

Necklace: c/o JewelMint (worn here - sim, pricey)

Bracelets: Asos pyramid stretch, F21, Overstock (sim, sim, sim)

Shoes: Nine West temani (worn here - sim, cas peep, loafers)