Quick & Easy Pork Chops Recipe

Bone-in Pork Chops (the most flavorful to cook with)

Salt (I like using Kosher salt)

Black Pepper

Ground Sage

Garlic Powder

Oil

1 TBSP of Butter

Warm up your skillet with some oil and butter to pan-fry your pork chops. Keep the heat on medium-low. I learned from Gordon Ramsey, that using both oil and butter to pan-fry your meat helps prevent the butter from burning, cause when searing your meat you need the high heat from the hot oil, and butter will burn at that temp — and the combo helps keep your meat from drying out.

Season your meat. I start with the salt and black pepper and then add the rest of my seasonings. If you are curious how much seasoning I use, I couldn’t tell you. I just season with my heart and do a few shakes or so to cover most of the meat surface. Once your pan is warm and the oil/butter is sizzling, throw the pork chops on and cook on low heat for 5 minutes. Flip. Pan-fry for another 3-5 minutes, or until the meat is at least 145 degrees internally. As it is frying on the second side, spoon some of the oil/butter over the meat to keep the meat from drying out and to add some more flavor into the meat. Remove from the pan once it reaches temp, and let it rest on a cutting board for at least five minutes. Serve.

I would watch New York Fashion Week online, and read all the fashion magazines to see what was up and coming.

Once I knew what the trends were, and was going to be the trendy items were going to be, I would pick my favorites and make my shopping list of what I need “to be in fashion” for that season. This would create my urge to own every “in trend” item that I could afford — be it the original, a knockoff, or for me to sew my own version.

Eventually this would lead to fashion burnout.

I didn’t know what my own personal style was, I was conforming to the people around me and what they deemed fashionable. I had a closet full of clothes, but felt like I had nothing to wear. My body had also changed from my twenties, and I felt disconnected from the clothes in my closet.

The world was changing too. Social media was transforming how trends were created. Fast fashion sites like SHEIN encouraged people to spend their paychecks on new outfits every week. TikTok made everyone a content creator, and fashion trends started shifting almost daily as micro-trends.

Trends started changing weekly as micro-trends.

Keeping up became exhausting. That’s when I realized: I didn’t want to chase trends anymore. I wanted to find myself again.

It was time to rediscover my love of fashion.

A few years ago, I decided it was time to rediscover my personal style. I was working out more, balancing my health, and exploring the power of living out my feminine energy.

Fashion became a way to reconnect with myself rather than impress others.

I started wearing whatever brought me joy. Gradually, I reintroduced pieces I had once loved. As I became more comfortable in my own skin, my personal style began to emerge naturally.

My love for vintage fashion came back. I embraced my nerdy side and rediscovered the joy of cosplaying characters from my favorite stories. I surrounded myself with art and took inspiration from my travels, observing how people express themselves through clothing. I also started experimenting and becoming bolder in my styling choices.

Of course, there are days when I throw on a basic t-shirt and shorts — or even just sweatpants when motivation is low. Being human means embracing those moments too.

Along with my personal style, I also embarked on a journey to find my signature scent. To me, fashion and fragrance go hand-in-hand. Finding a scent that fits my body chemistry, matches my personality, and draws compliments became another layer of self-expression.

All in all, fashion is a journey.

Like in life, we are always learning, growing, adapting.

The best part is, when we stop dressing for others and start dressing for ourselves, style becomes something much deeper: a reflection of who we really are.

Hello, strangers. Long time no see.

Life has been full of ups and down since I last wrote and shared a blog post. I have also changed, and become more of who I’m supposed to be since we have last talked. I have rediscovered my passion for reading, fashion, and for all of my small nerdy obsessions which change weekly. Being around people who love all your little quirks, and learning who are as a person is a game changer.

I’ve been active on Instagram this entire time. That has been a bridge to keep my feet in the content creators world, even though blogging was my first love back in 2008 on my first of many blogspot blogs. I have also dabbled in bringing back my YouTube channel this year. Like I said,

I’m rediscovering all of the things that make me uniquely me.

This past year, I’ve really been discovering my life of fashion again. I blessed with the chance to visit Paris and London with my mom in the spring, and then I visited Amsterdam for a weekend last September. Traveling, especially internationally always inspires me.

When I travel, I like immersing myself into the culture and visiting places the locals love, while sprinkling in some tourists spots.

My favorite days are always the slow moments and days. Walking around the place I’m visiting, listening to music via my wire headphones (adds to the romantic vibe), grabbing a coffee and pastry, sitting in a park with a picnic, people watching, strolling into shops, watching and feeling the bustle of the city surround me.

The travel bug is strong in me right now.

I want to visit friends across the United States, just drive the open roads, revisit a certain spot in Colorado that I haven’t been able to get out of my mind (granted I’m not 100% sure where it is, but that’s okay), and I want to travel internationally again. Getting to visit four countries within two years spoiled me. I want to see new places, but also revisit places. I’m torn.

I have learned that I have the gift of writing poetry.

I tried writing a book this past year, but quickly learned that wasn’t for me. Poetry is my thing, and potentially song writing if I was to study more into it. Because music is my life, but so is movies. I’ve discovered the amazing thing that is Letterboxd, to share my love movies with other friends who also love watching and reviewing movies.

My music taste has become even more evolved this past year. It is such an eclectic mix of everything from pop, rock, classical, jazz, low-fi, literally I will give every genre a chance. Yes, I still love Taylor Swift but there are so many amazing artists out there, that I’ve been listening to less of her this year. I actually think, she could be knocked off my top-five most listened to artists list on Spotify this year. Or at least not be at top of the list, as two other artists have been going back and forth since March for that spot.

We will see if I continue with writing blog posts in the future, and if I decided to add that back into my things that I love to do. Because there are some topics and subjects that I feel like a blog post would suit better than an Instagram post, or a YouTube video. And back in the day, I thought it would be cool to work for a fashion magazine, and blogging is a way to live that out. So maybe I will. No promises.

This sale is typically when I stock up on my favorite brow pencil, the ABH brow wiz. Random fact, I have never paid full price for my brow products, and I use Anastasia of Beverly Hills products exclusively.

| DAILY BEAUTY STEALS |

During the 21 Days of Beauty event, there is a Daily Beauty Steal every day of the event of a Prestige product that is typically marked down 50% off. Fun fact, if you are a Platinum or Dimond Rewards Member you will receive FREE shipping if you have a Daily Steal product in your cart. I have compiled a list of some of the products that I think are totally worth picking up during the event.

• March 13th — Anastasia of Beverly Hills Brow Wiz NOW $11.50 [$23] and MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ NOW $15.50 [$31]

• March 20th — Buxom Full-On Lip Cream NOW $10.50 [$21]

• March 26th — IT Brushes for ULTA Brush Bath Solid Brush Cleaner NOW $11.50 [$23] and It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Illumination NOW $21 [$42]

• March 27th — Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner NOW $11.50 [$23]

• March 29th — Urban Decay Hydromaniac Tinted Glow Hydrator Foundation NOW $14.50 [$29]

• March 31st — MAC Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation NOW $18 [$36]

Shrimp Nachos

Ingredients

• 5 — 15 pieces of Frozen Shrimp, thawed and detailed

• 1 TBSP of Butter

• Cayenne Red Pepper

• Ground Cloves

• Garlic Powder

• Black Pepper

• Salt

• Paprika

• Tortilla Chips [These are my favorite]

• Queso Blanco [I love this one]

• Mexican Cheese

• Hatch Chile Salsa [I’m a fan of this one]

• Pickled Onions or Green Onions, diced

• Sour Cream

• Cilantro [optional]

• Fresh Lime Juice [optional]

Instructions

1. Start off by defrosting the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for 10 to 20 minutes. Once your shrimp is thawed, you will detailed your shrimp before throwing it on the skillet to cook.

2. Melt 1 TBSP of butter in a skillet over low-to-medium heat, throw the shrimp on the skillet and season with the: Cayenne Red Pepper, Ground Cloves, Garlic Powder, Black Pepper, Salt, and Paprika. I just eye the seasons and do just enough to cover the shrimp and to get a good golden-red color once the shrimp is cooked. Grill the shrimp for about 3 minutes on each side, or until your shrimp is cooked. Remove from heat.

3. Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees while you prepare your cookie sheet for building your nachos.

4. Throw a handful or so of tortilla chips on your cookie sheet with foil, to prevent your nachos from sticking. Add dollops of Queso Blanco on your chips, along with mexican cheese, hatch salsa, your grilled shrimp, and the onions of your choice.

5. Throw in your warm oven for about 12 minutes, or until all of your cheese is melted.

6. Once your cheese is melted, remove from the oven.

7. Add dollops of sour cream, any salsa, and fresh Cilantro. If I’m feeling fancy, I will squeeze some fresh lime juice on my nachos as well.

8. Enjoy, your amazing nachos!

I’ve been blogging since 2009, and one of my favorite old blog posts to read are the ones where I do a year in review. It gives perspective on all the good things that God has blessed you with, the lessons you have learned, and how good a year it actually was.

All the Things That Happened in 2021: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

• I continued to learn how to live on my own, and keeping a home in order while balancing a busy lifestyle

• Experienced my first big snow storm while living on my own, and discovered how a rubbermaid lid can double as a snow shovel

• Found and moved into an apartment with my sister, Gaby

• Hosted some amazing tomato soup & grilled cheese parties with a great group of friends

• Became more active

• Started eating more healthy than I have since moving out of my parents

• Had the best year playing ultimate frisbee with an amazing group of friends, both old and new

• Ran a 5k in the Spring and the Drumstick Dash on Thanksgiving Day

• Worked on cultivating friendships with my co-workers

• Learned how to open, and run morning peak at my Starbucks store

• Got a tiny sneak peek at what it would be like to be an ASM at Starbucks

• Learned how to be more open, and honest with how I’m feeling with my managers at work

• Learned more about setting boundaries with others

• Learned more about processing what I’m feeling, and that it is okay to feel things

• Learned that I can’t do all the things, as my body needs rest and down time

• Had some of my darkest days this year, but I also had some of my best days as well

• Explored Indy more since before 2020

• Had an amazing 31st birthday weekend with family and friends

• Finally tried Bru Burger this year, and I finally understand the hype

• Saw Drew Holcomb in concert

• Saw one of my friends play the Cowardly Lion in a Wizard of Oz musical this summer

• Finally saw the Toledo Mud Hens play in Indy [this had been a dream of mine for awhile]

• Got into Women’s Volleyball more so during the Summer Olympics, and kept up with Big10 Women's Volleyball

• Went to a Colt’s game with my sister, Gaby

• Got invited to, and attended press day for the Carmel Christkindlmarkt

• Went on a day trip to Holland, MI with Gaby and our Mom

• Visited Nashville, TN and Chattanooga, TN for a weekend with my sisters and parents

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ashley Pokone (@plaidlattes)

Summer Trends

• Crop Tops — Never in a million years did I think that I would ever wear crop tops, yet here we are in 2021, and I’m actually rocking them paired with high-waisted bottoms. I’ve been loving these affordable crop tee shirts.

• High-Rise Shorts — Whenever I am not at work this summer, I’ve been loving high-waisted shorts. I have some vintage ones from the 90s [thank you, Goodwill!] and some cute ones from Target that I have been obsessed with this year.

• Classic Denim — I still love a good pair of skinny jeans for the summer -- just ones made out of lightweight denim is my preference. Some of my favorite brands are Universal Thread, American Eagle, and Abercrombie. They tend to fit my curvy self best.

• White & Black Dresses — I have had a good collection of little black dresses since my Ulta Beauty days, thanks to Goodwill, Old Navy, and Target. So it has been fun to style them up this year, along with my small collection of white dresses.

• Mini Skirts — I never thought I would be one for a mini skirt, but here we are. I love pairing mine with a good graphic tee, white converse, and a cool jacket. It is the most rock ‘n roll my style gets.

What are y’all loving for summer?

Fashion

• Universal Thread Short-Sleeve Boxy T-Shirt // Target // I wasn’t too sure about the boxy fit at first, and how it would look on me and my body type. But y’all. I’m a fan. I picked up both a small and a medium and they both work for me. The small actually fits me and I’m typically a medium/large, but I have been working out and losing weight this year — so I’m not mad that the small works really well for me. The medium is definitely oversized on me and will look cute with some shorts and sandals this summer. So I say either get your normal size if you want that oversized look, or size down one if you want a slimmer oversized look.

• Wild Fable High-Rise Distressed Straight Jeans // Target // I’ve been wanting some distressed high-waisted jeans, so when these blew up on Instagram I knew I needed to try them out. I ended up getting my normal size, which is a 10, it is a little big around the waistline but I just use these to make it smaller. Otherwise, they fit perfectly and I’m a huge fan of the jeans.

Beauty

• L’oreal Paris Voluminous Conditioning Primer Mascara // Target // Whenever Cristin Cooper recommends a product, I’m usually bound to like it. So after hearing her rave about this mascara primer forever on Insta stories, I finally broke down and bought it this past month. Y’all. It makes my lashes look beyond amazing when paired with my favorite mascaras. I’m a believer, and I hate unnecessary steps when it comes to my makeup routine.

Entertainment

• The Circle Season 2 // Netflix // I saw the first season and loved it, so when I saw that they had recently come out with a second season I was super excited!! So yeah, one of my guilty pleasures is Netflix reality shows — it is my go-to when I just want some nonsense show to watch whenever I’m stressed and I can’t focus on a storyline.

• Taylor Swift Reputation Album // I didn't appreciate this album when it came out in 2017, and I always skipped over it whenever I would listen to some TSwift. Y’all. Now that I have gone through some rough shit, this just hits differently. It has become one of my favorite albums of hers along with 1989 and Lover.

Fashion

• All in Motion Women's Seamless High Neck Tank Top with Shelf Bra // Target // Typically I don’t go for a high neck top, as I feel like I’m choking. I made a huge exception for this tank, as it is super flattering on me and my current body shape. I also really love the cream color and I’m typically the kind of gal who only owns black workout clothes [slimming and classy].

• JoyLab Women's Muscle Tank Top // Target // I love how this tank is kinda cropped and looks great with high-waisted leggings. I’m obsessed. I also love the tan marble tie-dye color — classy but trendy.

• Colorfulkoala Women's High Waisted Yoga Pants 7/8 Length Leggings with Pockets in Black // Amazon // Super comfy and flattering leggings. I have been living in these as they perfect for running errands around town and for working out. I’m typically a size M/L [8/10], so I ordered these in a size M as I wanted them to have a more compression fit to smooth out the tummy area.

Lifestyle

• Good & Gather Organic Classic Chai Tea Latte Concentrate // Target // I am really picky with my chai concentrates [and just chai lattes in general], so when I saw this one at Target I was curious to try it out. I definitely approve of this and will be repurchasing. It has a good amount of tea flavor, isn't overwhelmingly sweet-tasting, and I like the hint of ginger in the flavor profile.

Beauty

• Supergoop GlowScreen Sunscreen SPF 40 // Sephora // I’ve been really into the simple, yet glowy makeup/skincare look so of course, I had to play around with a glowy sunscreen. This is beautiful, but I definitely don't recommend it if you don’t want a super glowy look — as this product has a strong punch of glow. I personally love layering this sunscreen under a tinted moisturizer paired with cream products.

Entertainment

• Social Club Misfits Feared By Hell Album // Spotify // This album has been my jam since it dropped back in October. But whenever I’m going through some rough stuff, or my anxiety is through the roof this album helps calm me down and brings me back to Christ.

• Liquid Touch Weightless Foundation in 150c // $29 // The first time I wore this foundation, I ended up doing a game of ultimate frisbee after working an eight-hour shift at work and surprisingly my makeup still looked relatively good afterward. I was shocked, and it instantly made me a fan of Rare Beauty and curious to test out more products. I had forgotten that I was even wearing foundation, as it felt so lightweight and like I was wearing nothing.

• Liquid Touch Brightening Concealer in 140c // $19 // The concealer is of a little lighter coverage than my normal go-to, but it works for the days I just want super light coverage. This is mostly when I have been sleeping well, and my dark circles are on the tamer side [which honestly, come and go].

• Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Joy // $20 // Super pigmented, but glowy blush that just looks amazing on the skin. This shade will look amazing during the summer months with some bronzer, and a slight tan.

• Positive Light Liquid Luminizer Highlight in Enlighten // $22 // Such a beautiful liquid highlighter that lays well on top of both cream and powder products! It has quickly become my favorite liquid highlighter, that I have to force myself to remember to try different products out.

Fashion

• A New Day Rib Tank Top // Target // These have quickly become my favorite tank tops, and they are reasonably priced too. I’m working on collecting a bunch of the colors before everyone starts thinking about purchasing spring/summer clothes. I originally purchased these for my trip to Key West in January, as I had discovered that I didn't have any cotton tanks in my current size. Now I practically live in them, as they also make amazing sleeping tops. Yes, it may be the middle of winter, but I still sleep in shorts and a tank top.

• KUT From the Kloth Bootcut Jeans // Goodwill // I have been watching a lot of 90s and early 2000s teen tv shows, so I’ve been digging the bootcut jeans look. I also never really realized how flattering they are for me, as the last time I wore this style I wore my jeans several sizes too big and never anything that would actually fit the booty.

• LAUREN Ralph Lauren Boxer Lounge Shorts in Grey // Goodwill // I found the most perfect pair of lounge shorts from one of my favorite designers at Goodwill a few months ago, and I’ve been living in them ever since for nighttime. I tried to find a link for y’all, but apparently, they don’t make them anymore. Here is a similar style.

Lifestyle

• Made By Design 3 Tier Metal Utility Cart in White // Target // I have been wanting something to use a bar cart, so when I saw this at Target I knew it would be perfect for the job! I can store all of my drinks, mixes, and barware on this cart which is exactly what I was looking for it to do.

• La Colombe Unsweetened Light Roast Cold Brew Coffee // Target // I adore La Colombe’s draft lattes, so I was excited to discover that they have a ready-made cold brew now! This is perfect for those days when I don’t have time to brew coffee, or I’m just wanting something quick. I drink mine with just some half-n-half, and I’m slowly working my way down to drinking it black [but we will see].

• BODYARMOR LYTE Tropical Coconut // Target // I first tried this out back in January after walking 10 miles and needing something to help replenish my electrolytes, as just water wasn’t cutting it. I normally avoid most drinks like this, as I have a lot of fruit sensitivities and allergies but was pleasantly surprised to discover that I could have, and loved the taste of the tropical coconut flavor. I now keep a stash in my fridge at all times.

Beauty

• Kristin Ess Color Depositing Conditioner in Dark Mauve // Target // I’ve thought about dying my hair a burgundy/purple color for years but didn’t know if I would really like it on me. So when I saw that Kristin Ess had released a color depositing conditioner in the shade I was considering, I knew I had to try it out. I applied it to dry hair, as I wanted a stronger color payoff and I really enjoy how it turned out. Just an FYI, this will stain your hands, so make sure you wear gloves while applying to your hair. Also, be prepared to clean out your shower/bathtub afterward to quickly remove any stains. I’m a huge fan and would definitely repurchase it again.

• L'Oreal Paris Skin Paradise Water Infused Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 19 // Target // A beautiful lightweight tinted moisturizer that looks very much like skin, making it perfect for those no-makeup-makeup days. I love wearing all cream products whenever I wear this, as it looks the most natural.

• Milani Cheek Kiss Cream Blush in Nude Kiss // Target // This is a beautiful cream blush that lasts on the skin, and also works as a cream eyeshadow. Highly recommended it! I feel like I should do a post sharing all of my favorite cream blushes, as I have tried out a bunch the past year.

Entertainment

• WandaVision // Disney+ // I look forward to watching a new episode every week on Fridays. It is one show that I’m kinda thankful that I can’t binge the whole show at once, my typical favorite way to watch shows. It has helped rekindle my love of the MCU and the fourth [??] phase. I highly recommend that you check it out, but only if you have seen the latest Marvel films especially Endgame.

Things I achieved in the year 2020:

• Got to promote and work with my local Anastasia of Beverly Hills brow service at the Keystone Nordstrom in Indianapolis [#goals]

• Moved out of my parent’s house

• Created a skincare video post for Sephora of Clay Terrace Instagram page [another big goal of mine!]

• Learning how to live on my own and cook for one [still learning the cooking bit]

• Worked with Daily Harvest and created an Instagram Reel for them

• Became a content creator for Ipsy [I freaked out when I received the email, and couldn't believe it was real at first.]

• Started becoming more active and involved with my new Church

• Became more confident in being my own person and more independent

• Learned more about becoming a confident leader at work

• Learned to embrace my new weight and body shape

• Started running a mile with a friend weekly [or when it would work for our schedules and weather permitting]

• Brought more video content back for my brand [something I’ve been wanting to do for a while]

• Took some online classes to improve my blogging knowledge

• Learned how to work through life complications with others

• Just showing up for events, even if I didn't know anyone [this is a big one for me]

• Became better at ultimate frisbee

• Tried out new foods and drinks

• Learned to embrace change more, especially when things don’t go as planned

What are some things you have learned or have been blessed with in 2020?

What I Wore // Daisy Print Dress Old Navy// Cropped Denim Jacket Goodwill // White Converse DSW // Necklace H&M // Purse Nine West via Goodwill

When I was putting together outfits for my trip to Key West, I realized that I didn’t have a good cropped denim jacket in my wardrobe. Instead of going out and purchasing a new one, I just took a denim jacket that I had found this summer at Goodwill and chopped it into the length I wanted. It was easy to do, and instantly gave me the look I needed to complete my Key West wardrobe.

You can easily get this look yourself, you will need a denim jacket that fits you well in the shoulders and a pair of sharp scissors. Place the jacket, look in a mirror, and try to figure out at what length you want your jacket cropped. Once you figure out the length, take the scissors and make a small cut to mark the spot. Take the jacket off and line up the edges from front to back — make sure it is even. Then continue cutting at the spot you originally made a mark, and chop off the unwanted length. Put the jacket back on and see if it looks how you envisioned it. Congratulations! You just DIY yourself a new denim jacket for your wardrobe.

Fashion

• JustFab Abby Bootie // JustFab // I had been on the hunt for a good pair of heeled black booties, as I somehow had never purchased a pair for myself. I had a pair of suede heeled booties, but they are a little snug so they aren’t that comfortable.

• Old Navy Oversized Denim Jacket // Goodwill // This is one of my most favorite denim jackets that I have thrifted over the years. It is the perfect slightly oversized denim jacket, in a not too dark or light shade which makes it perfect to pair with either dresses, skirts, or even jeans.

Beauty

• Acure Acne Dots // Target // A lifesaver for those days when my cystic acne is really bothering me. I like applying the dots in the morning after I have washed and prepped my skin for the day, these dots help.

• Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Facial Cleanser // Target // The maskne has been real, which means I’ve been struggling with cystic acne for the first time since my teenage years. Not cool. So one of my friends recommended that I try out his skincare routine, and it is actually working out for me. Just make sure you add lots of moisture back into your skin after using this cleanser. You can read more about my current skincare routine here.

• Tarte Tartelette in Bloom Eyeshadow Palette // Ulta Beauty // I’ve owned this palette since it was first released by Tarte [Holiday, 2015], and I still haven't grown tired of it. The palette is filled with some amazing everyday neutral shades and has some of my favorite shades for a neutral crease shade, and all-over shimmer lid color.

Entertainment

• Operation Christmas Drop // NETFLIX // If you love cheesy Hallmark type Christmas movies, add this one to your list!

• Last Christmas [2009] // HBO MAX // Another cute cheesy Christmas movie set in London with Henry Golding and Emilia Clarke.

• START-UP // NETFLIX // Episodes are still airing at the time of this post going up, but it still makes my list. I used to bash K-Drama’s, and never saw them as something I would ever watch until my brother introduced me and my sisters to Vagabond back in March/April. Since then I have been hooked on the K-Drama life.

• One Tree Hill // HULU // I’m a long time fan of OTH. I honestly can't remember exactly when I first started watching the show, but it was definitely before the final season aired. Anyway, I was seeing fan videos circle around on Instagram, and it made me want to rewatch the show again.

What I Wore // Oversized Denim Jacket [Thrifted Old Navy] | Highest Waist Jegging [Thrifted American Eagle] | Syren Misty Duck Boot [Sperry via DSW] | Knit Sweater [Thrifted Universal Thread] | Turtleneck Tee [Thrifted American Eagle] | Pom Beanie [Love Your Melon]

I went with a very blue-toned outfit for my hike this weekend. Blue-green sweater and turtleneck tee. Blue denim jeans and jacket. And there is even some blue on my duck boots. lol Granted these are some of my warmest pieces, and I wanted all the layers since I typically start off freezing, then get very sweaty after walking/running for a couple of miles during the colder months.

I also opted to wear my very favorite oversized denim jacket that I had found at Goodwill in June of 2019, after being on the hunt for one since visiting London in 2017 and seeing a lot of young people rocking them. It is the perfect fit, has pockets inside the jacket too [my favorite], and looks great with a lot of outfits — including darker wash jeans [a look I’ve been rocking more in 2020].

I hadn’t struggled with acne since my teenage years, so I haven’t really been enjoying the maskne life. Especially since my skin had just gotten to its best life of looking healthy, glowy, and clear. I just wanted to get back to that wonderful clear skin life. So I reached out on my Instagram stories asking for product recommendations, and some of y’all shared what worked for you. I took those recommendations and walked the Target skincare section to find either those products or products similar to what y’all recommended.

Favorite Skincare Picks for Maskne

• Simple Micellar Cleansing Water — I’ve gone back and forth with using micellar water to remove my makeup — and 2020 is definitely the year for it. I like using these cotton pads to help remove my makeup [I typically find them for cheap at stores like Marshalls and T.J. Maxx].

• Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Acne Facial Cleanser — I only recommend that you use this product if your skin is super oily, and you are willing to add moisture back into your skin after washing your face. In the past, Neutrogena would break me out like crazy, and give me what I would call, alligator skin. I was nervous at first to try this face wash out, based on my past experiences, but I was desperate to clear up my maskne — but my friend who recommended the product to me said that it helped clear up his skin. I’ve been using the face wash for about three weeks now, and it is definitely helping with clearing up the cystic acne I was having.

• The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 — After you are done washing your face, apply some of this hyaluronic acid directly to wet skin to help replenish moisture back into your skin. This product will also help your other skincare products to soak into your skin better.

• Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturizing Cream — This is a thin moisturizing cream that helps deliver moisture back into your skin — perfect for dry and sensitive skin. This doesn't feel thick or heavy on the skin, and my skin feels healthy and nourished afterward. [This was sent to me in my November Ipsy Glam Bag Plus.]

• Alba Botanica Acne Pimple Patch — These acne dots are perfect for combating cystic acne. I apply them after I wash my face and leave them on all day, or night — depending on how itchy my acne is feeling. I find that these dots help speed up the process of healing, and helps keep me from touching it and making the problem worse.

• cocokind Turmeric Spot Treatment — On the nights I apply my acne dots, I like to do a little face mask treatment beforehand. So far this mask seems to be getting the job done. I do enjoy that it comes in a stick form.

• Pond’s Dry Skin Cream — Whenever my skin is feeling super dry, I pull out this timeless face cream.

What are your favorite products for combating acne?

The main brands on my wish list in 2020 to test out are Patrick Ta, Rare Beauty, Natasha Denona, Tower 28, and Makeup for Mario. Most of these brands are either on the newer side or just came out this year.

I really wanted to purchase the Natasha Denona Glam Palette during the Sephora Rouge Sale, but unfortunately, it sold out quickly online, and I was unable to purchase it in time. The palette looks like it would be a great pick if you loved the ABH Sultry palette [one of my top favorite eyeshadow palettes of all time]. An excellent mix of cool-toned mattes and shimmer shadows — my favorite!

Tower 28 has been on my list to try since April. I purchased one of their cream blushes last month, and it instantly became a favorite. I did end up purchasing their clear highlighting balm during the sale, so we will see how I like that. But I still would love to try out their cream bronzer, setting mist, and various lip glosses.

Rare Beauty is already a favorite brand of mine, and Selena Gomez just dropped her line in September. I already adore her foundation, concealer, and highlighter [looks like you are glowing from within], so of course, I would love to try out more products from her line. The cream blushes are a must-try for me — just waiting for them to get back in stock.

If y’all can’t tell, I’m all about the cream makeup products this year. I feel like perhaps I should do a post on my favorite cream products that I have come out within the past year or so. I feel like cream products have come a long way, or I just understand how to use them more effectively. lol

What is on y’alls Sephora Wish List?

Fashion

• Old Navy Mid-Rise Power Slim Stright Jeans // Old Navy // For the longest time, Old Navy jeans would never fit me. Ever so often I would try on a pair that intrigued me, and would always be disappointed — until now that is. These mom style jeans fit me perfectly and were exactly what I was looking for. I love the 90s mom jeans look, so I was excited when I found these and that even fit me without a belt [a rare thing for me]. I highly recommend checking them out, especially if you carry weight in your mid-section to hips area.

• A New Day Long-Sleeve Smocked Blouse // Target // I loved this blouse when it first hit the stores, and I was going to wait to purchase it when it went on sale, but all of my favorite bloggers started talking about it so I just purchased it one day on a Friday night shopping trip. I’m typically a size M/L, and I opted for the XL as it was the last option in the orange, and it ended up being the perfect slightly oversized fit that I needed.

Beauty

• Tower 22 Beauty BeachPlease Tinted Lip + Cheek Balm in Magic Hour // Sephora // This has been the year of rediscovering cream blushes. I used to be a big fan of them when I first got into makeup, as I loved how natural they could look on the skin. Then I kinda forgot about them, but I’ve been all about natural-looking makeup this year, and brands have been delivering good cream products in 2020 — and I’m here for it. This blush lasts fairly well on the skin, blends in well, and gives a beautiful sun-kissed look.

Entertainment

• Emily in Paris // Netflix // I miss being able to travel, and this Netflix original show helped a bit with the travel bug. Also, the clothes are super cute — even if they aren’t in the true Parisian style, they are definitely Americanized outfits. But hey, it is a fun, light show that takes place in Paris.

• Man with a Plan // Netflix // I’m a sucker for sitcoms. So when I discovered this show on Netflix and realized that Matt LeBlanc, Joey from FRIENDS, was in it, I knew I had to try it out. It is definitely cheesy, but hey, sometimes I’m all about cheesy TV shows. It is a fun, light show and feels like you are watching Joey years down the road, settled and married with kids in Pennsylvania.

Fall Trends

• Winged Eyeliner — Without fail, I always bring the winged eyeliner back into my makeup routine every fall/winter. This year I’m really loving this liner — it is easy to apply, and goes on like a dream! I’m a fan.

• Blazers — I go in phases with loving blazers. This year I’m all about them. They dress up a basic outfit — that could be an LBD, or even jeans and a tee-shirt.

• Bodysuits — Within the past year, I have become a fan of wearing bodysuits. They help create a slimming look and just help elevate your look. You also don’t have to worry about your shirt becoming untuck — always a bonus. I like wearing the following ones: tank version | long-sleeved

• Dresses as a Layering Piece — I’m loving the look of dresses with either an oversized sweater or tee shirt over top and some chucks. I haven't dabbled with wearing it yet, but I’ve played around with the idea.

• Flare Jeans — High-waisted flare jeans are just so chic — especially when paired with some heeled boots and either a striped tee or feminine blouse.

• Headbands — I was obsessed with headbands about ten years ago, and I’m back to kinda digging them again. I’ve been really enjoying wearing these — they are cute, comfy, and aren't too expensive.

What are you loving for autumn this year?

Fashion

• Ralph Lauren Striped Cotton Sleep Shirt // Goodwill // There is something so classy about sleeping in this sleepshirt or even lounging around in it in the morning whilst getting ready with a mug of coffee. It all feels very tres chic, and like you should be living in Paris, London, or even New York City in a cool flat.

• Vintage Ralph Lauren White Linen Blazer // Goodwill // I’ve been on a Ralph Lauren kick this month, which is honestly not shocking, as I go in phases with loving everything preppy and timeless. Random fact about me, my first designer purchase was a sweater dress from Ralph Lauren back in 2009. Anyways, I’ve been loving the oversized white blazer look, so when I stumbled across this blazer at Goodwill I knew I had to have it.

Lifestyle

• Epson Salt Bath with Essential Oil Blend // Amazon // I was dabbling around with oil blends that are perfect for a soak in the tub after a long day at work, and my feet are just killing me. In a mason jar, I will mix 3-5 drops of Peppermint, 3-5 drops of Lavender, and 3-5 drops of Eucalyptus Radiata with about 2 cups of Epson salts. My muscles thanked me after soaking in a warm bath for about 30-45 minutes.

• Starbucks Guatemala Casi Cielo Whole Beans // Starbucks // A yearly favorite Starbucks coffee bean. I’ve been having it every morning brewed in a coffee pot with cinnamon powder in the grounds. Perfection for those early fall mornings.

Beauty

• Marc Jacobs Beauty O!Mega Bronzer Coconut Perfect Tan in Tan-Tastic! // Sephora // I happened to find this bronzer at TJ Maxx, and knew immediately that I had to test it out! I’ve become a huge bronzer junkie this year, so I’m always willing to test out a new bronzer especially if I think it might just work for my fair skin. This bronzer looks seemless on the skin, and gives that perfect summer bronzed look.

• Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Liquid Touch Weightless Foundation in 150C // Sephora // This has quickly become my number one favorite foundation! It feels like you wearing nothing on the skin, in fact, I wore it one night to ulitmate frisbee and it lasted even when sweating from running all over the place. I didn’t mean to wear makeup while playing, but I completely forgot that I was wearing makeup when getting ready that evening, as it didn’t feel like I was wearing any makeup that day.

• Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Liquid Touch Brightening Concealer in 140C // Sephora // A lightweight concealer that looks very natural on the skin. It is easy to layer if you need extra coverage, and sets well under powder. I’m a fan.

Entertainment

• Beverly Hills, 90210 // CBS APP // I love the early 90s fashion featured on this show! It has really been inspiring me fashion-wise.

• Gilmore Girls // Netflix // Come every fall, Gilmore Girls is one of my favorite background shows to put on when ever I’m cleaning, getting computer work done, or even just having a slow morning getting ready for the day. Are you team Dean, Logan, or Jess?

• Fraiser // CBS App, Peacock App // A spin-off of the show, Cheers. It features Fraiser Crane and what happened after Cheers ended. This is my second time watching the show — it is one of those shows that is worth rewatching several times.

• The West Wing // Netflix // I’ve heard about this show for years, but never got around to watching it till this month. I’m enjoying the cast, the sassy lines, and just the whole premise of the show. I do occasionally like watching a good political drama television show.