Building My Beauty Arsenal With IPSY

With everything going on at the moment, I decided that I needed to treat myself. I have been wanting to try a subscription box for a while and when I stumbled upon Ipsy, I thought it was a perfect fit. I liked that the company has an in depth quiz to make sure they send me items that I would like and also to push me outside my comfort zone when it comes to beauty.

It came in a pretty box. When you crack it open, there are five products ranging from makeup to skincare. 

And, a cute travel case lies at the bottom. Each product is full sized. IPSY has three different price points 

$12, $25, and 35 dollars. I went for the $25 dollar option because there were larger sized products.

Since its a monthly subscription, I'll receive a surprise every month! With all that being said, how are you relieving stress during this difficult time? I find that I am consistently online shopping so I definitely looking for a new hobby. Let me know if you guys use subscription boxes and if so which ones. I'm always on the look out for quality companies

xo- meka 

Favorite Youtube Fitness accounts

This has not been the best week. My anxiety has been on 10. With COVID-19 forcing us to work out at home and stay away from the gym, its important the we still stay in a healthy mindset. It's not about losing weight, it's about taking care of your mind and body.  

It is no secret that have been on the path to living a healthy lifestyle. And, I have taken steps to move in that direction. So, with the gyms being closed (in Chicago) and the government asking people to stay close to home, it may be difficult to stay on track and not just binge watch tv and eat snacks all day.

I am privileged to have a Peloton bike. So, I have access to classes whether it be bike, outdoor (running/walking), or floor classes. They have wide variety of classes that you can take even if you don't have the bike. The app is $12.99 but if you are looking for something free, I still got you.

So, since Youtube is such a vast wealth of knowledge. Meaning you can found anything on the site. Whether you are trying to learn how to do your makeup or fix your sink, its there in some shape or form. Here are some of my go-to sites for a good workout.

Kayla Itsines
Sarah Day
Growwithjo
POPSugarFitness

Also, if you have your plan but need some motivation, I follow these lovely ladies on Instagram for motivation and inspiration:

@fittybritttty

@sashaexeter

@scoutthecity

@laurenelycefit

@bluebirdkisses

@bodybyneeks

All these women whether they are fitness bloggers, lifestyle bloggers, or entrepreneurs they all have bomb works and meal prep ideas. Plus, they do it with style.    

So, let's workout. Let me know what workout and let me know what you are doing to stay in shape and positive. What workout outlet are you using? I'm always trying to stay motivated and try new things.

Celebrating Father's Day: Supporting Black Businesses

With Father's Day only two weeks away, it is time to start thinking about what we are going to do to celebrate. And, with the current state of the country, I thought it was only right to support black businesses. Chris is a huge streetwear fan. So, I thought I would put together a care package with some of his favorites but also some new players to broaden his horizon. So I have gathered his favorite Chicago brands with a twist. Enjoy!

{1.Busylife Clothing} { 2.Chicago or NoWhere} {3.Shea Moisture Facial Set} {4. Pillars} {5. Yeezy 350} {6. Retro Jordans}
{7.Lit Candle Co.} {8. Mielle Rosemary Mint} {9. Shea Moisture Beard Kit}

Moving Within The Chaos Of COVID19 and Racism

This is ALOT. For the past few days, I have been bombard with imagery of police brutality and injustice to unarmed innocent men, women, and children. This hurts my soul. Being a black woman with two black sons and husband this hits too close to home. We can no longer pretend. 

On top of all that, COVID19 is still among us and we still have to live our "normal" lives. My children still have school. My husband still has to navigate his professional responsibilities. I have been told not to come to work because it has been deemed unsafe. This cause is bigger than my paycheck, I will take the hit, if it means my husband and sons will be able to walk the earth freely without being judged or threatened.

So, what I have been doing since the horrific murder of George Floyd? I have been having conversations and teachable moments with my children, family, and friends (of all colors). I have been signing petitions for George Floyd and Brianna Taylor. I have watching the news as people are protesting, rioting and looting trying to make sense of it all. I have been praying for my brothers and sisters on the frontline and all that are involved. The ugliness is deafening.

But, at some point I have to unplug before I am consumed by it. Because, at the end of the day I am a mom and a wife. I have to be strong and mindful. Chris and I have made family time a priority. Watching movies with the kids and doing activities with them has helped. 

For myself, my self care has increased. I am a stress eater so by keeping my promise to workout 3-5 times a week and increase my healthy eating, I am able to balance those weak moments. Listening to my boys play, I take extra time with my skincare routine, burn candles and mediate. 

This is the time if you are at home to practice anything that will bring you peace and joy. From cooking to painting. Planting a garden. Do something to make your heart happy. Do something to relieve the heavy burden you carry.

So, With all that being said... Are you okay? What are you doing to unplug?