Author Archives: lifewithlilred

Unknown's avatar

About lifewithlilred

Just your average gal blogging an average blog!
Feb23

Aveeno Positively Radiant Overnight Hydrating Facial Review

Posted on by
Standard
Aveeno Positively Radiant Overnight Hydrating Facial Review

Hellooo everyone! As we all know, Lil Red is a sucker for skin care and is always up for trying new products. So, whenever my mom or sister gets something new, I have to borrow it to 1) Test it out and 2) Put it on the blog. Sometimes, the products are amazing and other times they are ehh… not so much. Unfortunately, the overnight moisturizer by Aveeno that I just tried out missed the mark by a long shot. Take a look at some pics and let’s discuss:

aveenoaveeno1aveeno2

Although I don’t use them as often as I would like, I enjoy a good overnight mask or moisturizer. A product that puts in work while you sleep is the best. And, it’s even better when you wake up and your skin feels awesome and you did literally nothing but catch some Z’s to make it that way. So, of course, I was excited to try this Aveeno moisturizer out, because who doesn’t like overnight results?

Sadly, I could tell that I didn’t like this moisturizer as soon as I put it on. The texture was way too thin and gel like to feel nourishing and, by the time I went to bed, it already seemed to have absorbed into my skin. I woke up the following morning and my face felt tight and so parched for hydration, which is the polar opposite of what any overnight product should do.

I was a bit disappointed, because Aveeno is a good brand and I was looking forward to trying it out. I’m not sure if the reaction my skin had was a fluke or what but, because it left my face feeling so dry, I would not recommend this product based on that alone. At least this was something that I didn’t buy! 😀

What is your favorite overnight product? How do you keep your skin hydrated during the winter? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb22

Lacking Motivation For Your Blog? Get Your Mojo Back!

Posted on by
Standard
Lacking Motivation For Your Blog? Get Your Mojo Back!

Hi! Maintaining a blog is hard work. Creating content, staying relevant, and letting your presence on social media platforms be known can be a daunting task. With so much to do, it’s easy to throw in the towel – especially if you’re lacking motivation or are suffering from a case of writer’s block. So what can you do to get your mojo back, baby? So glad you asked!

Create A Schedule:

My writing schedule is crucial to the maintenance of my blog. I am such a schedule oriented person and if I falter from that, my day just seems off. Because I post new content daily, I write my next pre-written article around eight or nine every morning. This works for me. But, you need to create a schedule that works for you and stick with it. This could mean writing every other day or once a week. Create your schedule and let it be known on your blog when new content will be posted, which will hold you accountable.

Treat Yoself:

The reward system is a great way to gain some motivation for a blog post. I do this as often as I can afford! If I’m hankering for a treat for myself, I think of it as a new article on my blog. This could be a swatch post with the lipstick you just bought or an OOTD with the clothes that you couldn’t pass down at your favorite store. We’re only human, and sometimes we need a little incentive to do what needs to be done. With a reward, you get something new along with something to talk about on your blog. Just spend wisely, please!

Enjoy Yourself:

Blogging should first and foremost be fun. If you’re genuinely struggling to write and it seems more like a chore than a pleasure, then there is no shame in taking a break. Don’t beat yourself up about it and get back on the horse when you’re ready. The blogging community is a supportive one and we will be so happy to see you upon your return.

Of course, there is something to be said for just powering through and creating content despite not feeling good about it. And, sometimes, this can be really helpful. Once the juices start flowing a few articles in, you’ll wonder why you ever stopped at all. This is my preferred method of dealing with a lack of motivation and I always find myself feeling better after I’ve sat down and written something for my readers.

Open Your Eyes:

Writing is all about finding something that excites you during your day to day life. Whether it be the gorgeous floral arrangements at the market or taking a brisk hike through the woods, find what gives you that little spark and hone in on it. What did you feel? What were your surroundings like? The noises? The smells? Take note of it and create from there. When I’m out and about, I am constantly scanning what’s around me, because an idea for a blog post could be there if you know to look for it.

Motivation makes all of the difference when it comes to maintaining your blog and hopefully this post gave you some inspiration to keep the ball rolling! 🙂

How do you stay motivated as a blogger? What do you do when you have a case of writer’s block? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Featured Image By: TeamBonding

Feb21

Feeling Off? 4 Simple Steps To Getting Back On Track

Posted on by
Standard
Feeling Off? 4 Simple Steps To Getting Back On Track

It happens to most of us, doesn’t it? Whether it’s due to stress at work, home, or something of our own accord that has skidded down a slippery slope, we have all had a wobble with our overall well being at one time or another. And, if you have been lucky to have not hit a sticky patch in your life so far, you’ve probably been close to someone who has to some degree.

It’s not the greatest feeling in the world, as we know, and it’s not the easiest place to escape from. Even if you’re at a stage where you’re struggling to overcome the obstacle in your life, and others are telling you that it’s much simpler than you think, it’s understandable that you still can’t quite crack the code. Something so very annoying and confusing can be unlocked, however, but things like this take time, and the solution won’t arrive straight away. Here are a few simple things to think about when trying to improve your overall health:

Make A Plan:

It doesn’t have to be the most complex of plans. It can be a simple as a weekly routine that could keep you organized so that you know what to do at certain times. For example, if you’re looking to clear up your eating habits, you can jot down a certain rigid time that you’ll eat every day. Keeping a scheduled routine can help you to worry less and also feel as though you’re heading on the right track to achieving your goal.

Getting Back On Track And Staying There:

We’ve talked about the idea of realization and preparation, and now it’s time to act on what you’ve been preparing for. Taking that concrete step into the world of a new diet, mindset, or into a stage of recovery may seem scary, but it’s more comfortable than you think. It could merely be a change in calories or as big a move as biting the bullet and getting help from drug and alcohol rehab centers. This step could take you into your new life and, when looking back, you might see it as the pivotal moment when things began to improve.

Nutrition:

Food! Getting the correct food into the body won’t just help you physically reach the stage you want, it’ll help you out mentally. Having knowledge of nutrition in your life can save you. It doesn’t have to be a strict routine of every health food known to man – you can have a cheat day once a week to keep moral nice and high!

fourr1

 That salad looks so good!

Getting Enough Exercise:

Exercise is often played up as the ultimate killer of mental health problems – while that’s not entirely true, it’s still a significant factor in tackling some of the issues and creating overall happiness. It’s, of course, also very beneficial to your body and, if you want to keep that ticker going for as long as you can, getting the blood pumping from even the most moderate of walks around the block can help.

The post New Year’s Resolution funk or a current rough patch can make us feel tired and just downright blah. Use the tips above to help get yourself back on track!

 Featured Image By: Unsplash

Feb21

All Time Favorite Enchilada Recipe

Posted on by
Standard
All Time Favorite Enchilada Recipe

Hiii! It is no secret that your girl loves to eat and I enjoy a variety of different ethnic cuisine as long as it’s vegetarian. But, perhaps, my most favorite is Mexican food. The spice, the flavor, and heat – I just love it and I wouldn’t complain if that was the only type of food I could ever eat for the rest of my life. Recently, I had one of my favorite Mexican dishes that is quite simple but insanely delicious and I had to share it with all of my fellow foodies!

This recipe for Avocado & Cashew Enchiladas is from The New Moosewood Cookbook. Enjoy!

Avocado & Cashew Enchiladas

  • 2 medium sized avocados
  • Juice from one lemon
  • 4 finely minced scallions
  • 1/2 cup finely minced parsley
  • 1 cup finely chopped cashews
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or firm yogurt
  • 1 medium clove of garlic, crushed
  1. Mash the avocados until they are smooth and add the lemon juice immediately.
  2. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
  3. Fill your tortillas and place on a pan sprayed with Pam.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes at 350 degrees.
  5. Top with your favorite salsa or enchilada sauce and dig in!

This recipe takes a whole ten minutes to make and the avocados and cashews provide a satisfying and relatively healthy filling. I feel so full after this enchilada meal and always can’t wait to eat it again the following day. 😀

What is your favorite type of food to eat? What are some of your favorite recipes? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb20

Lil Red’s Fresh Face Tips & Tricks

Posted on by
Standard
Lil Red’s Fresh Face Tips & Tricks

Hiii! Since I posted some no makeup selfies on Facebook and on the blog, I have had a lot of people inquire about my skin care routine. I have to say that I’m flattered, because I do take really good care of my skin and my complexion is something that I’ve always liked about myself. I have never had a pimple in my life, and I thank the stars for that. I always tell people that if I had to deal with acne during the major brunt of my mental health struggles during my teenage years, I honestly don’t know if I would be here today.

That sounds extreme, but it’s the truth. If skin problems was something that I was going through during teenager-hood (Which is completely normal!) on top of everything else, that might have been the straw that broke the camel’s back. So, from about freshman year on, I’ve stuck to a very strict skin care regimen and it works! And, now I am going to share some of my tips and tricks with all of you.

picss2

1) Double Wash

I have been double washing my face during my morning showers for years and I think that is one of the main reasons for my clear skin. Depending on what products I have handy, I will use a regular old cleanser and then a scrub or a charcoal facial bar. I’m bad, and I don’t take my makeup off at night, so I know that I need some extra cleansing power to get all of the gunk off from the previous day. And, whether you take your makeup off or not, a double wash is still good to get off any grime or dead skin lingering around that the first wash doesn’t always remove.

If your skin is sensitive, then a second wash can be incorporated every other day or every third day to prevent yourself from drying out. And, make sure the products you’re using are creamy in texture. But, if your skin is normal or problematic, give yourself a daily double wash and see what happens!

2) Skin Care

I don’t have a magic face mask or home remedy, but I do have some skin care products that I couldn’t live without. After I double wash in the shower my skin care routine goes as follows:

Micellar water: I start with wiping my face down with micellar water to act as a toner and get my skin fully ready to make the best use of the next three products I apply.

Serum: A good serum is a must. I always recommend using something with Vitamin C, gold, or anything with the words “rejuvenating” or “revitalizing” in it. All of the previously listed things will help with brightening your skin, giving you a youthful glow. This is when you know your skin care is working right.

Eye cream: I’ve been using eye cream since high school and I swear by The Body Shop’s Nutriganics cream. Wrinkles, crows feet, and dark circles around your eyes can really age you, so it’s crucial to work in an eye cream to your regimen if you don’t have one already. It’s all about youthfulness, after all!

Moisturizer: And, finally, a moisturizer. This will complete your skin care routine by giving you a peaches and cream finish. But, do be sure that you’re not over hydrating your skin, which can lead to oiliness. It’s all about balance. If I’m using a thicker, oil based serum, I stick with a lighter moisturizer. But, if the serum I’m using at the time is thinner, then I go with a heavier moisturizer to make sure I’m still getting hydrated. Also, pay attention to the weather. You might have to go with a heavier moisturizer during the cooler months and something lighter during the summer.

3) Hydrate!

I’m sure everyone tells you this, but water, water everywhere is a must for glowing and clear skin. It helps detoxify your body and it keeps your skin from getting dried out. And, then, people wonder why they are having skin issues if all they do is drink sugary beverages all day. I try to drink at least three to four bottles of water a day. It’s great for your skin and it might help you lose a little weight, too. What could be better?!

4) Makeup Mindfulness

The last thing we will be talking about is makeup mindfulness. Be aware of what you’re using when you’re painting your face and notice the reaction your skin is having. No makeup should be making your skin feel oily or greasy. And, be careful of the amount you use on your face. When you really cake a foundation or powder on, it basically suffocates your skin and makes it very easy for gunk to get trapped in your pores.

This is not to say to walk around with no makeup on every day. And, if applying your makeup heavily is what gives you confidence, then do it up. But, just be on the look out for any changes in your skin. If you start breaking out or if you’re starting to feel oily, it might be your makeup that’s causing the problem.

Will the above tricks work for everyone? Maybe. But, they definitely work for me and I had to give the people what they asked for! So, hopefully they will come in handy for you, too.

What are some of your tips and tricks for clear skin? Will you be implementing any of the suggestions above? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb19

Bath Bomb Blitz: Lush’s Cheery Christmas Edition

Posted on by
Standard
Bath Bomb Blitz: Lush’s Cheery Christmas Edition

Hi everyone and welcome to a new edition of Bath Bomb Blitz! Thanks to an early evening at work, I got to enjoy using the Cheery Christmas bath bomb from Lush. Yes, I did get it as a Christmas present. But, hey, it’s better using it late than never! And, I happened to use this bath bomb the night before Valentine’s Day so the pink color was pretty and appropriate! Take a look and let’s discuss:

cheery1cheery2cheery3cheery5cheery4

When it comes to the show that Cheery Christmas put on, I was fairly underwhelmed. I really like the bath bombs that completely change the color of the water. And, with a pink bath bomb you never know what you’re going to get. In my experience, they normally tend to change the water to this light pinky/purple shade, which is nice, but definitely not my cup of tea.

However, I did enjoy the snowflake motif that was evident in the water. The bubbles that branched out took on this transparent, snowflake style shape and that was cool. I also liked that halfway through the bath bomb fizzing, a baby blue core was revealed. Despite being smaller than the usual bath bombs from Lush, Cheery Christmas took a LONG time to fizz out completely, which I liked and I didn’t. I like when a bath bomb takes a while to dissolve when a fun show is put on. But, sadly, this bath bomb didn’t really do much so all it did was turn my bath water tepid by the time it was over. Whomp whomp. -__-

Overall, I would give Cheery Christmas a five out of ten. It makes for a good gift because of the cold weather theme. But, it was not my favorite because I like really dark bath bombs that make the water a totally different color. I don’t recommend this bath bomb, but I don’t not recommend it, either!

What is your favorite color of bath bomb to use? What is your favorite Lush product to use? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb18

Feeling Old

Posted on by
Standard
Feeling Old

Okay, stop rolling your eyes at the title because you know I’m twenty-four. Lol, but seriously, I have been feeling So. Freaking. Old. lately! I don’t know if it’s the fact that I’ve been working nonstop since I recovered from surgery or something deeper, but I have been feeling really aged and so not a twenty-something. And, the fact that the big 2-5 is quickly approaching in June isn’t helping, either!

I feel like I have this mindset of work, work, work and I have come to realize that the cool parts of my twenties have been passing me by. The travel, the spontaneity, the sense of adventure. Granted, the road to where I am present day hasn’t been an easy one. But, I feel like all of that time spent on the bullshit and now in the whirlwind of my crazy schedule has let a lot of living be left behind in the dust.

With a grocery list of mental health problems plaguing my adolescence, teenage years, early twenties, and even now when I have things “under control” to major family crises, getting to twenty-four year old me was a never ending struggle. And, I want to celebrate that accomplishment. But, damn, how does one pack up everything and take a week long road trip like all of the memes on Facebook suggest?!

I would love to have a feeling of excitement when I wake up. But, the routine of working my ass off Monday through Friday and recouping from it on the weekends is the definition of monotonous. Of course, I do have things that I look forward to, but they have felt few and far between. And, this is what has left me feeling run down, so blah, and just… old.

Oy, sorry for being such a Debbie Downer today, but I really needed to talk this one out so thanks for listening! Has anyone ever gone through anything similar to this post? How do you pepper in some excitement to your life? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb17

Guest Bloggers Unite!

Posted on by
Standard
Guest Bloggers Unite!

Helloooo! We are more than halfway through with February and, believe it or not, spring will be here before we know it. At least, I have to keep telling myself that! But, there’s no reason why the blogosphere can’t feel as springy as possible. So, if you would like to relay on a spring themed guest post to lifewithlilred, we can spread warm thoughts like wild fire! If you would like to be featured on my page for the day with a springy post, please email me at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com . 🙂

These posts can be anything from an OOTD and flower planting advice to an MOTD or spring cleaning tips. I can’t wait to hear from all of you! Much love. -Sarah

Feb16

Progress!

Posted on by
Standard
Progress!

Hi! These past few months have been a whirlwind. December and a portion of January was spent recovering from surgery. While the rest of January and this month have been spent playing catch up from all of the missed time from work. I’ve been very busy going from client to client, maintaining the blog, and still working in time for skating lessons when I can. And, I’ve got to say, I’m feeling awesome!

Even though the recovery from my surgery gone wrong was a great big bitch, a lot of progress was made for my health unintentionally. For example, I quit smoking. I also quit drinking pop and my coffee intake has been very limited, too. Did I want to do any of this? Absolutely not. But, with so many open wounds in my mouth, smoking was impossible. And coffee and pop just didn’t sit well in my stomach once I was able to drink anything comfortably. There was a time when I even considered being a part of a coffee club so I could get coffee delivered regularly, but now it just wouldn’t be worth it with my current state, oh well.

Everyone knows that I am (or was) a Diet Coke fiend and I would never say no to a hot cup of coffee or a trip to Starbucks if I was asked. But, shockingly, I am very okay with these changes, because I have been too busy sipping on the tea to notice. Yes, I have become addicted to green tea and I love it so much that I’m okay with replacing one addiction with another!

During surgery recovery, tea always made me feel a little better. It was refreshing, mild on my stomach, and it put a minuscule pep in my step. And, now, tea makes me feel AWESOME. It energizes me, tastes delicious, and it makes me feel light without the heaviness of a caffeine crash from drinking coffee.

Although the changes above were far from intentional, I’m proud of that progress. Without my horrible oral surgery, I don’t think I would have ever bothered to quit smoking or drinking pop and for that I am thankful. I’d be a liar if I said I didn’t have a cigarette or two while I’m drinking. And, I’d definitely be a liar if I said that I didn’t enjoy a Baja Blast when I hit up Taco Bell. But, these every once in a while occasions are much better than every day habits and I can live with that!

Who else has made some good progress lately? Who has been keeping up with their New Year’s Resolutions? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb15

Let Me Take A Selfie

Posted on by
Standard
Let Me Take A Selfie

Hiii everyone! If you’re not hip to my Facebook page, where I primarily post pictures of yours truly, then you are missing out! So, feel free to send me a friend request or follow me at: Sarah Mushenheim. But, since I am a benevolent blogger and I don’t want anyone to feel like they’re missing out, here’s a few of the most recent pics I’ve posted in the past few months. Enjoy!

picss1picss2picss3picss5picsspicss4

A Brief Explanation:

Pics 1 & 2: Ain’t nothing wrong with a little no makeup day! There was a time in my life where I wouldn’t be caught dead with no makeup on, so it feels good to be able to walk around in a fresh face and feel confident about it.

Pic 3: On my way to my sister’s baby shower! Valerie Jane will be here before we know it and I am so excited to be a TT to my little niece!

Pic 4: Finally feeling better after a month of oral surgery BULLSHIT! I believe that I took this pic on my first official day back at work so I had to show out.

Pic 5: Lots of tattoos! I have twenty-five now and am constantly getting more, more, more. 😀

Pic 6: One of my clients got a new St. Bernard puppy named Groot! He is the goodest boy and his St. Bernard big brother, Max, has been showing him the ropes of doghood. So cute I can’t even.

What is your favorite form of social media? Do you prefer selfies or someone taking pictures of you? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah