Author Archives: lifewithlilred

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About lifewithlilred

Just your average gal blogging an average blog!
Jun29

My Girl Power Anthem

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My Girl Power Anthem

Hello! Once upon a time when my sister and I were on our way to X-Fest, my ex-boyfriend and I had just broken up and your girl was not really FEELING HERSELF. Even though that day ended up being one of the best days of my life, it initially started out very mopey until things turned around by hearing one song. Kristen decided that I was in desperate need of hearing “Smile” by Lily Allen and, as always, she was totally right. Take a listen:

(I have no rights to this song or video.)

I feel like this song is the perfect Girl Power Anthem. It completely sums up the feelings of a break up all while telling you to just smile instead of wallowing in your own misery for days on end. Being happy and moving on with your life is the best revenge in any relationship or friendship that has turned sour and there is nothing like a totally catchy song encouraging you to do just that to motivate you to do it, too. This has been my go to song whenever I start feeling even a little sad for the past month, and with Lily and her devil may care attitude on my side, nothing can stop me.

What are some of your girl power anthems? Are there any songs that you like to start the day with? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun28

Pacer Progress (Or Lack Thereof)

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Pacer Progress (Or Lack Thereof)

Hello everyone and happy Thursday! This past month has been a total and complete shit show and, needless to say, my activity level has been pretty low. All of my motivation to make big gains on my pedometer app has essentially flown out the window, and I’ve been having a hard time peeling my depressed self off of the couch. So, my stats for the month are definitely not the best. 😦

  • Total Steps: 959,262
  • Calories Burned: 23,591
  • Hours Walked: 148
  • Miles Walked: 315

And, to make matters worse, my activity level dropped from being ninety percent more active than the people using Pacer to a whopping forty-three percent. Whomp freaking whomp.

Now that I realize how low I let my movement get during my depression stupor, I am SO ready to get back on the horse and keep going until I start making good progress again. It’s going to be difficult, because I’ve been feeling so sluggish lately. But, once I get started, it will go back to being easier to get my 10,000 steps in no time. So, here we go!

How do you get yourself back on the horse after a stint with depression? What motivates you? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun27

Bath Bomb Blitz: Secret Arts Edition

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Bath Bomb Blitz: Secret Arts Edition

Hello everyone and welcome to a new edition of Bath Bomb Blitz! This amazing Jelly Bomb from Lush is called Secret Arts and it was part of my birthday gift from the beautiful Kate of Ankhor You. Kate knows me all too well, because only a true best friend would gift me with a bath bomb that turns the water black! Check it out:

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When I first popped Secret Arts into the bath tub, I was so pleased to see the water turning into an inky black, because bathing in black water is one of my emo kid fantasies. And, as the bath bomb began to dissolve, it revealed a deep magenta core that spiraled out into the water. It actually looked a lot like a Golden Snitch from Harry Potter… except not golden at all, but you get the point.

As I made my way into the tub, I noticed a layer of film over the water that didn’t look like anything I’ve seen before while Bath Bomb Blitzing. Little did I know, I was using a Jelly Bomb, and it transformed the water into a rich, creamy gel. It actually felt a lot like butter and it definitely felt a lot like magic. A coincidence from my BFF who also loves Harry Potter as much as me? I think not!

After making the discovery that I had a skin treatment included in this bath bomb, I took the time to rub the body butter film all over myself and it was so delicious. It moisturized my skin so well that I didn’t even need to apply lotion upon exiting the tub but, of course I did anyways to revel in the full bath time experience.

The only negative about this product was the clean up afterwards. It left a slippery, black residue in my tub that needed serious elbow grease to remove. It literally looked like an oil spill took place in my bath tub. So, if you’re not interested in a heavy duty tub scrubbing after your bath, then Secret Arts is not for you. But, if you don’t mind it, then it will be a magical bath time, indeed.

*Cue Harry Potter theme music*

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

Jun26

Lovely Lingerie: Upbra Edition

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Lovely Lingerie: Upbra Edition

Everyone has those articles of clothing that they just hate shopping for. Some find dread in having to purchase a new pair of jeans, others go ballistic over bikini shopping. And, meanwhile, there’s me – who hates, hates, HATES shopping for bras. My breasts are always something that I have been self conscious about because of their size, and it has brought upon a sense of impending doom when the time comes that I need a new bra.

Will it give me proper support?

  Will the larger bras be as pretty as the smaller ones?

Will it fit properly?

Will it give me cleavage that looks appropriate?

All of these thoughts and then some swirl around in my head when a new bra needs to be purchased. But, what if I told you that there was a brand of bras on the market that eliminates literally all of the above problems?

Allow me to introduce Upbra:

Upbra, a California brand, has dedicated over half a decade to designing the technology to bring comfort, support, and perfect cleavage to breasts of every shape and size. These bras aren’t your standard Victoria’s Secret lingerie by any means, because Upbra allows you to customize the amount of cleavage that you get without bulky padding.

Six years of research and design created Active Lift technology, which is featured in every Upbra bra. And, what is Active Lift technology, you might ask? I’m so glad you did! Check it out:

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Now, where was I? Oh, yes. Active Lift technology. You might notice a few different things about the Upbra bras in comparison to your lingerie from Victoria’s Secret.

First:

My personal favorite thing about the Upbra bras are the specially formulated vinyl hearts that act as grippers from the inside of your bra. Not only do they look adorable, but they help to keep your cleavage in check all day by keeping your breasts placed inward and upward as soon as you adjust your cleavage control straps.

And, speaking of cleavage:

Perhaps the most important part of Active Lift technology are the cleavage control straps, which you can see on the bottom band of each bra. The locking system in the bra’s band are connected to platforms within the bra cups, which allow your breasts to be moved upward and inward when adjusted for perfect cleavage every time. The amount of cleavage that your bra gives is completely up to you. For a more natural look, pull and lock your straps just a little for a day on the job. But, for a night out, you can pull a lot to lock and load your girls for after work drinks!

The best part about Upbra bras, though, is that they are made with every size in mind. That’s why it was so exciting when their Miraculous Stay-Up Strapless Bra was released. I know. I initially rolled my eyes, too – because whether you have small, medium, or large breasts, it can feel nearly impossible to find a strapless bra that keeps you lifted all day. That’s why you can always see my bra straps when I’m wearing a top or dress that definitely needs a strapless bra.

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So annoying, right? But you know what’s even more annoying? Wearing a strapless bra that is falling down every second of every minute of every day!!!! That’s why Upbra created their Miraculous Stay-Up Strapless Bra with a grip around the band so that you stay lifted and supported all day. No bra straps required. Check it out and see how I went from Bra Strap Betty to Strapless Sarah thanks to Upbra:

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Upbra’s Miraculous Stay-Up Strapless Bra provided me with the confidence that I needed to go strap free for the first time in my life, and that is so special to me. Say goodbye to straps and hello to support all day and, dare I say, perfect cleavage too!!!

I know that all of my lovelies will be looking forward to getting their own gorgeous lingerie from Upbra, and I’m here to help with that. You can use this coupon code to get ten dollars off of your purchase:

SARUPBRASB10D

How has a good bra changed your life? Where do you do all of your lingerie shopping? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun25

Five Ways To Learn When On The Go

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Five Ways To Learn When On The Go

Knowledge is power, as they say, yet judging by how people spend their time, you wouldn’t necessarily know it. We spend the best part of our first two decades on earth getting educated, and then, we simply stop. On the one hand, it’s understandable: we’ve learned the essentials during our formal schooling, and now it’s time to enjoy other things in life. But on the other, education is always worth pursuing. There’s much to know that they would never have taught you in school! But we know time is in short supply. That’s why we’ve put together some ways to learn while you’re on the move. On the commute, when you’re jogging – there’s always time to learn something new.

Put the Phone Down:

You’re sitting on the bus. You’re at a cafe, or the bar, waiting for your friend to arrive. Wherever you are, the temptation these days is to pull out your smartphone and start scrolling. But what are you missing out on when your mind is in a digital space? Education about the real world! There’s much to learn just by keeping our phones in our pocket and looking around every once and awhile. It’s a good chance to think big.

The Best Minds:

You might be a smart person, but you don’t know everything. As such, there’s much you can learn by listening to talks from some of the world’s best minds, past and present. There are plenty of inspirational talks on YouTube, which you can then convert to MP3 by using Convert Video. The next time you’re traveling from A to B, you’ll be able to fire up some inspiring words of wisdom and learn something new just as you’re going about your business.

Tune into the Radio:

It’s a good idea to learn about things which interest you, but it’s also good to learn about new things, too, things that you’ve never heard of before. Practically everything is interesting if you go deep into it enough! When you’re in your car, look at firing up talk radio, such as NPR. They usually talk about issues that you won’t hear about anywhere else, or things that you’ve never heard about before. In the process, you’ll be broadening your knowledge base, and may just pick up a new passion. Nice!

Carry a Book Around:

Are you always carrying a backpack or handbag around? Then keep a book in there. You’ll be surprised by just how many minutes of downtime you have during the day. These minutes present you with the chance to get your book out, get to reading, and learn something new. You’ll also significantly increase the number of books you read each year, too.

Strike up a Conversation:

Everyone’s smart in their own way. Next time you’re by yourself and have some downtime (or you’re on a plane), strike up a conversation with a stranger. They will always tell you something that you didn’t know before, and you can tell them something new, too. Plus, they might become a friend!

Continuing your education after school can be about street smarts, too. So try and learn something new the next time you’re on the move!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jun25

O’Keeffe’s Lip Repair Lip Balm Review

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O’Keeffe’s Lip Repair Lip Balm Review

Howdy! So, normally, I’m not a huge lip balm kind of gal. I’m notorious for licking it off my lips if it tastes good, I hate the little white flecks that form on your mouth after wearing it for a while, and sometimes my lips feel even dryer after applying the LIP CHAP in the first place. But, then I tried this here O’Keeffe’s Lip Repair Lip Balm and my opinion changed drastically. Check it out:

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Weirdly enough, this lip balm was given to me FO FREE at the Cleveland Zoo when I went last week. It was so random, but I’m glad for it, because I can’t get enough of this stuff. Why, you might ask? Because…

  1. It’s unscented, so I’m not eating chapstick all day because it smells so good. There is probably so much Lip Smackers in my belly from my childhood!
  2. I’ve applied this product several times since I got it, and I haven’t had one single white fleck problem on my mouth.
  3. The texture is thick (But not too thick!), and my lips feel hydrated after using it as opposed to thirsting for another application.
  4. Because this balm is so rich, it leaves your lips with a gorgeous creamy color instead of anything too glossy or sticky.

I’m not one to gab about lip balm, but I really am gaga over this one and would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. You won’t be disappointed!

What is your favorite brand of lip balm? Have you used any O’Keeffe products before? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun24

June 2018 Finishes

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June 2018 Finishes

Hello! In just a few short days, my birth month will be drawing to a close. And, that can only mean that it’s time to go over my beauty finishes for June! So sit back, take a look at my empties, and let’s discuss:

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Would I Use Again?

  • L’oreal Extraordinary Oil hair serum: MAYBE
  • The Body Shop Cocoa Butter: YES
  • The Body Shop Strawberry Body Butter: YES
  • The Body Shop Satsuma Body Butter: YES

Why/Why Not?

L’oreal Hair Serum: Guys, it took me over ONE YEAR to finish this L’oreal serum and, I must say, that it did its job well. I applied two pumps to my hair after my shower every morning, and it left my locks shiny, silky, and frizz free post straightening. And, it smelled awesome! If given the opportunity, I would use this again. But, I’m not married to the product and am looking forward to trying something new.

TBS Cocoa Butter: You all know how much I love me my cocoa butter! I seriously cannot get enough of this stuff and have to buy a tub every time I see it at TJMaxx. I feel spoiled rotten whenever I use it and the rich chocolate scent never gets old. I got six full body uses out of this container.

TBS Strawberry & Satsuma Body Butter: These mini butters were from a Christmas gift, and I finally got around to using both of them up. Granted, it didn’t take long, because I only got a full body and a half use out of each container. But, that’s okay, because they were still nice to use and I love both scents – especially Satsuma!

This month, I enjoyed using lots of body butter and finally finishing my serum from L’oreal. I am really happy with all four products that I used up in June and am looking forward to reviewing more empties come July!

Is there a product that has taken you forever to use up? What is your favorite body butter scent from The Body Shop? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun23

Dunkin’ Donuts Disappointment

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Dunkin’ Donuts Disappointment

Hi! This week, I received my freebie cold brew packets from Dunkin’ Donuts in the mail, and it was nothing short of disappointing. Take a look at some pics, don’t mind the Loony Toons pitcher, and let’s discuss:

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As you can see, the preparation of the cold brew coffee was easy and self explanatory. It wasn’t until I was ready to drink the coffee that everything went up in flames! In the morning, I woke up and was excited to give my cold caffeine drink a try and, unfortunately, I wasn’t able to taste one single drop.

While attempting to get the coffee bags out of the pitcher, they ripped and I had barely even touched them. It turned all of the liquid in the pitcher into a thick, coffee ground contaminated mess. Now, I probably should have just poured the drink into another pitcher so that I could add the extra water and then dispose of the bags, but I was tired and wasn’t thinking and really REALLY just wanted my coffee and ended up having none at all. So, needless to say, this freebie was an absolute and total bust. #disappointed

How do you like to drink your coffee? Who else has had some coffee ground disasters before? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun22

Five Tips To Follow For Faster Cooking

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Five Tips To Follow For Faster Cooking

Cooking at home is always better than ordering take out or getting a pizza delivered for the third time this week. You can always find more taste and more nutrition when you cook the food at home. However, there are occasions when you need to make cooking easier so that you spend less time in the kitchen when you’re hosting a party or family dinner. Apart from using the best vegetables and other ingredients, you must use the best cooking methods that are not only safe for the food but also make your cooking effortless. You can use some great tips and blend them together with your knowledge and experience to make cooking easier and less time consuming. Remember, most of these are devised by the great chefs and are tried and tested by the homemakers. Here they go:

Plan your recipe:

One might say that this is the most important step, because the recipe that you choose is what will be on your dinner plate. Make sure you pick something that you feel capable of being able to make well – especially if guests are coming over. And, of course, plan the order you are cooking in too. Perhaps you will want to prepare delicious side dishes the day before so you can fully focus on the main dish when it comes time to cook. Breaking up the order can be especially helpful if you are trying your hand at new recipes because we all know how frazzling that can be!

Get your ingredients ready:

Very often, people feel the pressure when they do not plan their recipes. If you plan what to cook and how to cook, then it becomes easier for you to get the ingredients ready and within your reach. While planning a shopping list do some research too so that you are always satisfied with what you’re buying. Look up what the best peppers for salsa are, enter a search for Best Pancake Mix for your breakfast, and so on. This prior preparation keeps you ahead of your time as you start cooking right at the moment when you get the stove ready.

Set up appliances and ignite the stove:

After getting the ingredients out, you should get the appliances ready and ignite the stove. Make sure you have the best appliances right in front of you and you know how to use them so an unexpected fire doesn’t ruin your meal!

Use a pressure cooker and smoker:

It goes without saying that the use of pressure cookers can ease the task of cooking. Since boiling the ingredients is an important step of cooking, you can use these appliances to shorten your cooking time because they boil the food in a reduced manner. You should make sure to boil your veggies before you cook them. This preserves the nutrients and reduces the time for cooking, as well. Also, if you have a smoker, you can cook a number of recipes quickly. To learn more about smokers, visit review websites like Hvacify.Com.

Go for multitasking:

This is an efficient way to reduce the time for cooking. While you boil the ingredients in a cooker, you should do some other task on the oven so that you can finish another item off of your check list till your vegetables are ready. In a similar manner, you can prepare the spices for a particular dish till something else is being done on the stove.

Though these are some of the top tips that you can follow to make cooking faster, you can apply some more from your own experience. Also, the internet is loaded with a lot more innovative tips that you can always learn and apply to make cooking an enjoyable necessity.

Jun22

Bath Bomb Blitz: Lush’s Over & Over Edition

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Bath Bomb Blitz: Lush’s Over & Over Edition

Hello! This past weekend, I finally got to enjoy a nice, long soak in the tub with one of the bath bombs from Lush that I received for my birthday. I was feeling so worn out, so I decided to go with the Over & Over bath bomb, because of its bright yellow and orange color to see if it might help energize me. And, after watching it take off in different directions in my tub like a little rocket, it surely did! Take a look:

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This is so bad, but my first thought when this bath bomb hit the water was “great, it’s going to look like a tub full of pee”, because of the initial pale yellow color. But, shortly after, I was proven wrong, because the pink coloring from inside the bomb began fizzing out in full force. So much so, that it literally made the bomb whiz off in the opposite direction of the tub like a shooting star. It. Was. Awesome.

From then on, the bomb began fizzing its vivid yellows, oranges, and hot pinks for a solid ten minutes, all the while it was filling my bathroom with a scent that was like freshly squeezed pink lemonade. The swirling colors left the final shade of the water a really pretty sunset orange and it felt like laying in a bubble of sunshine once I finally got into the tub.

Not only was the bath bomb display gorgeous but, because it’s made with cocoa butter (My favorite!), it left my skin feeling so hydrated and good – especially after shaving the Woolly Mammoth legs! 10/10 would use this bomb Over & Over again!

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