Yves Rocher- haul & first impression review

Hello peeps,

as summer days are coming to an end, I thought it was a perfect time for a little, beauty shopping spree. This past month I have been particularly loving the Yves Rocher stores and their amazing offers, and so here I have five new products I purchased only a few days/weeks back along with a short first impression review. 

1. Sensitive Vegetal: Anti-Redness Moisturizing Cream

£9.90 (on sale)

My skin gets very dehydrated and sensitive in winter which accompanies really annoying redness on my face caused by the slightest change in temperature- that is; walking from an arctic cold classroom into a desert hot school corridor. For a while now I've been searching for something to reduce the sensitivity of my skin and thought to try out this cream. I used it only twice, in the mornings, and so far I'm liking it and have big hopes for it. It sinks in really quickly, has a super light formula and I can actually feel it cool my cheeks down. You'll definitely hear from me about this product in the nearest future with either a positive or negative review, so keep an eye out. 

2. Hydra Vegetal- Refreshing Radiance Scrub 

£5.00 (on sale)

This was actually the reason for my shopping at Yves Rocher. I love experimenting with various facial scrubs and really wanted to give this one a go. From my first use I actually didn't see or feel any difference on my skin, however. But so far I can say it isn't harsh and doesn't dry my skin out even more. I'll continue using it twice a week, as recommended and keep you guys updated whether I like it or not.

3. Hydra Vegetal- Intense Hydrating Mask

£6.50 (on sale)

I only used this a couple of times but I'm pretty certain I'll be loving it. Basically, apply it twice a week, leave on for 5 minutes and wipe down the excess using a cotton pad. However, the lady in the store said you don't actually have to remove it and just go to sleep with it on, which is exactly what I did. Again, very light consistency that absorbs quickly and leaves my face super soft in the morning! It's a perfect mask for me as I never seem to have time during school year to bother with face masks at 11pm :P

4. Coconut Lip Balm

£1.90 (on sale)

Okay, this on was actually kind of ''pushed in'' (quite literally). The lady at the till said ''oh, you only need to spend this and that more to get an extra stamp on your card, maybe a lip balm?'' and I just went, ''okay toss it in, I need one anyway'' (I actually did and it's not like it costs a fortune). But, it has disappointed me, big time. Yes, it does smell and taste amazing, but once it absorbs into the lips, they feel twice as dry as they were in the beginning. I'll keep it in the pocket of my school blazer because it is really handy, but I don't see myself repurchasing it again :/

5. Low ShamPoo- Delicate Cleansing Cream

£3.50 (ON SALE)

This is the one I'm most excited about. If you haven't heard about the ''no poo'' (no shampoo) method of washing your hair, it translates quite literally. It's a current trend, started in the US, where you wash your hair with only water or apple vinegar. And thanks to Yves Rocher, people who are not as brave to take up the challenge (like me) now have a shampoo which doesn't contain either sulfate or silicone (chemicals which in fact may damage the structure of the hair and act harshly on the scalp) and so it also doesn't foam and is very delicate. 

I got it two weeks ago and have been using it since. My feelings are mixed. One way I love that it's a natural way of washing my hair, they look really shiny and healthy and it's quite easy to get used to the non-foaming formula.

The other I really dislike how I have to wash my hair twice under the shower to avoid greasy strands in the morning and pay attention as to whether my entire head has been washed or not. 

But I am aware the high temperatures outside are causing my hair to get greasy a lot quicker so I'm going to keep using it throughout autumn and see how it works for me.

Okie dokie, that is it. By the way, am I the only one feeling excited to go back to school? Please tell me I haven't gone nuts :P 

I would really love to hear if you've used any of these before or what your most recent beauty purchases are so do let me know down in the comments and I hope you have a lovely week ahead :)

love,

-k.

Mini, monthly book haul

Hello peeps,

one thing there's always space for on my shelves are definitely books. I can never have enough, even if my reading list extends beyond possible to find time for within the school year. And since I managed to save up some money I decided to spend them on some new novels to add to my collection.

As I'm currently in Poland I obviously purchased all of the above in Polish but am still more than excited to share them with you.

1.

First of my buys is titled Margo, The Dangerous Island by Janusz Onufrowicz  that is in fact a Polish author. It has not been translated into English, which I personally think is a shame. I've already read down few chapters which I have been enjoying. It's a very light and easy read, full of action and sarcastic dialogues.

The plot is about a ten year old Margo who's sold by her parents and lands in a deserted castle under the watchful eye of a psychopath guardian Mona Many. She's basically one hell of a piece of work and tries the best she cans to escape.

I feel like the novel is mostly aimed for children but since I had nothing else to grab on whilst away on holiday I thought this would be nice adventurous read for the summer.

2.

The second book translates to Autumn Rose from The Dark Heroine series by Abigail Gibbs. I have absolutely been mad about the first part ''Dinner with a vampire'' and wanted the sequel since it was released on January of the previous year. 

It is obviously a vampire story, but a one that I feel is actually something more original. When 17 year old Violet Lee is kidnapped by a group of blood suckers she enters a completely unknown world of extravagance, wealth and old fashioned parties. There is no escape and the passion she grows for the dangerous Kaspar Varn deepens with each encounter. 

I haven't started on the Autumn Rose yet but I really want to know how the story continues on and what will Gibbs surprise me with this time :)

3.

Last but least, I have borrowed The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown from my step mother, who has recommended for me to read it so much, the first thing I did after returning home was taking it and sitting down to read. 

I've never seen the movie which made me even more encouraged to read it, especially because so many people have talked about it all around me and I never really thought of actually grabbing it as a lecture. It's a good book to read for everyone, but because I'm a HUGE crime/mystery/thriller lover it is absolutely fascinating and I can't step away from it.

I'd love to know what new novels you have purchased or have been enjoying recently and know what's worth giving a go out there :) Please leave me a comment down below and I'll write again soon.

Love,

-k.

July Fave- Product of the Month

    Timotei Dream Volume Shampoo

     

Hello peeps.

I feel kind of guilty for not doing one of those last month but the truth is, I don't think I have been loving a beauty product so much it was worth sharing. I do this month, however.

To my own very surprise, July's favourite happened to be...a shampoo! The reason for my unexpected shock is because I don't think I've ever loved a shampoo before... (this doesn't sound weird, right?) Yes I have enjoyed using specific shampoos but they were never really fulfilled my expectations and more often were a disappointment.

The Timotei Dream Volume shampoo (with Jericho Rose) however, I used due to complete randomness. As you may know I have been more than a busy bee this holiday, travelling quite a lot, and my travel bag doesn't exactly scream ''I'm so empty, you'll fit your shower products no bother''. And so, I abandoned my own shower necessities to use whatever was available at whoever's place I was staying. As hair wash day came to a close, I found this cute, handy, pink bottle on my granny's bathroom shelf.

First impression: this smells quite nice. I mean, it isn't a choking sweet smell that occupies the entire room once you pop the bottle open, but it does have that pretty fruity accent to it.... and it has grapefruit! C'mon, of course I'd loved it from the first place! (In case you haven't read my post, back from April, I basically ramble on about how much I love grapefruit scented stuff)

From the start I really did love the packaging. It has a very handy, popping-kind-of clip at the top that just needs a little push to open (no nail damage done...yass). Besides that it won't come out unless squeezed (very handy with my ability to drop everything in the shower) and I mean look at that peachy pink tone! I seriously have moments I could eat away.

Anyway, getting to the damn most important point. The next morning, when my hair had completely dried, I was in a state of euphoria...okay maybe that's a bit exaggerated. But I did see the difference. For the first time in forever (there'll be music there'll be liiiiight- sorry I had to :P) my hair actually had some volume. And I don't mean it was all over the place, impossible to tame, but I noticed the strands separated out, leaving the impression of thicker hair. What satisfied me even further was that they weren't over dried, sticky or in possession of the ''unhealthy'' appearance. 

Yes of course it's not as if the shampoo is perfect. Some cons include the fact the scent doesn't stay on the hair or that the effect lasts for only around 24 hours. But I wasn't looking for a product that would make my hair look glowing, healthy and awesome smelling; I searched for one that would finally add some volume to my always straight and droopy strands, and am happy to have finally found one.

It has the pink grapefruit extract, 0% parabens and the bottle is Eco-friendly and can be recycled. The 400ml bottle will probably last me around two to three months and it costs only like 3euro? Suits me.

And that is all that I can say about it. If like me you're struggling to create some volume to your hair I do recommend to check this out. Or if you have previously used it do let me know what the result was like for you and what did you think?

I'm also super interested to find out your favourites from July so leave a comment down below and I'll write to you soon :)

Love,

-k.

21 things to do when there's nothing to do

Hellooo peeps,

summer's here, party time, camping with the squad and lots of shopping! Nah, everyone is gone, you start to realize your home town is a total dead end and your family doesn't consider on going to some tropical holidays soon. In other words ''kill me before I die'' kind of boredom.  

No worries though, I've been through that....a lot! So please feel free to take any inspiration desired from this list of 21 super awesome (I think) ideas, that'll spice up those summer days :)

1. Start a blog

That's exactly what I did whole year ago. It's super fun way to get creative and write about absolutely anything you wish! And also very time consuming :)

2. Write a story

I don't mean a bestselling, super thrilling romance novel, but just something exciting that you feel you would enjoy reading. Why not even publish it online?

3.Bake

Cookies, muffins, cakes and macaroons don't have to be bought in bakeries. Start your own, and enjoy sweet goodies each day :)

4. Drink up!

I mean who doesn't enjoy iced tea and coffee during summer? And do you even realize how many different recipes and ideas there are for them? Go ahead,feel free to fill your fridge from top to bottom :D

5. Take up a sport

What's better than coming back to school relaxed and fit! There's so many options; swim, jog, dance, cycle, go to the gym or even do some gymnastics! Some even consider shopping a sport *points at myself with a wide grin* 

6. Make a movie

Haul video? Or maybe something more of a Cannes Festival quality? If you've got a camera and an idea there's nothing holding you back!

7. Read

What's better than sunbathing with a good novel in hands? Or for the book haters... I recommend the Harry Potter audio-book series. No more to add here.

8. DIY photo album

Those thousands of photos on your computer and phone need to be printed! Buy a scrap book, some markers, decorations and you're good to go.

9. Learn a language 

I think there's nothing better than being able to speak more than one language. And let's face it; schools don't do a great job on teaching them xD

10. Arrange a spa day!

Bubble baths, Lush, manicure, face masks and temporary hair dyes. When a better time to chillax than during summer?

11. Organize children's camp

Get those neighbors' kids, your few cousins and create them couple of days of fun activities and sport. Good way to learn how to be the leader, work as a team and finally be the authority!:)

12. Throw a movie marathon day

Popcorn, sweets and fizzy drinks are all legal on this day. Perhaps a movie playlist including Lilly Collins? <3

13. Invest in The Sims 

If you've ever played it and enjoyed it you know what I'm talking about. Beware: you might never switch off that PC :P

14. Become a photographer 

Grab a camera or your phone and get creative!

15. Take the small ones to cinema 

I mean, it would be kind of weird if I went to see Inside Out on my own :P

16. Buy a rat

Or a mouse or a turtle, because why not?. What a better way to become busy and responsible :D

17. Learn sewing skills and become a designer!

Fashion or interior, designing and creating are such a great pastime!

18. Come up with a dance mix

Why not be a choreographer for a day as well as a DJ and camera person? Maybe a music video is a way to go?

19. Decorate your bedroom

Make a project, and get going. DIY's, interior stores, eBay and garage sales will allow you to finally make that dream room.

20. Do a time capsule

If you haven't done one already, what are you waiting for? Forget your age, these things are always fun!

21. Plant a garden

Trees, flowers, fruit plants.... how good for the eco-system and your own personal time during summer? :)

Good Morning Marilyn

Hello peeps,

when my dad first announced we'll visit Marilyn Monroe's photo exhibition that's currently taking place in the city, my first thought was; ''okay, sure we've nothing better to do''. My ''doesn't make me any difference, probably won't be as impressive'' attitude was quenched the minute we stepped through the door frame.

Never, in my life, had a museum-styled exhibition, made such of an impression on me. Based in one and a half room only, not only her photographs can be admired but also the tone of other works by the one and only photographer, Milton Greene, taking for example actresses like Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and Jane Fonda. 

I know only a little about the Hollywood's absolute movie icon, but despite my quite average knowledge about her life, the experience of this visit have been so extraordinarily inspiring I can't really put the impact it have made in words.

I, myself, am a huge fan of everything movie and acting related that this was just an amazing day.  The only regret was.... why did I forget the camera?