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Just your average gal blogging an average blog!
Feb1

Lil Red’s Book Club: The Housemaid’s Secret By Freida McFadden Edition

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Lil Red’s Book Club: The Housemaid’s Secret By Freida McFadden Edition

Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new edition of Lil Red’s Book Club! In a spoiler free setting, as always, we will be discussing the second book in The Housemaid series by Freida McFadden called The Housemaid’s Secret. Like its predecessor, I devoured this one in a few days. Unlike its predecessor, this one left me absolutely shook because I did not see anything in The Housemaid’s Secret coming! This was an excellent change of pace as I literally predicted the first book in its entirety less than fifty pages in lol. Before we begin, I will be placing a trigger warning on The Housemaid’s Secret for violence and disturbing content. Now, let’s get to it:

We reunite with Millie at her new housekeeping/nanny position for yet another wealthy family. Life is good. She has a new boyfriend, is taking classes at a community college, and has steady work. Until she gets fired, anyways. Back to square one and with a criminal record, Millie begins an endless loop of job interviews and doesn’t hear back from any of them. Then, she gets a phone call from a Douglas Garrick as he and his wife, Wendy, are interested in her services.

Millie makes the trip to the Garrick’s lavish penthouse apartment and expects to be greeted by the lady of the house. Rather, she interviews with Douglas. He says that Wendy has been incredibly unwell and that she spends most of her time in the guest room resting. Normally, Wendy would handle the housework but has requested the extra help as she recovers. The job includes cleaning, cooking, running errands, and the most important rule of all: Do not bother Wendy if her door is shut. Millie accepts her new position and is eager to start. She needs the money, badly.

As Millie settles into her new gig, she notices that there really isn’t much to do at Chez Garrick. The house is essentially already spotless, but she cleans anyways as Wendy spends her day in bed. Next on Millie’s to do list is laundry and it is then that she does spot a spot. Spots of blood on the collar of Wendy’s nightgown. Immediately, Millie is suspicious and her “battered wife” senses fly off the charts. Why was Wendy bleeding from her face or neck? Why has Wendy not even introduced herself yet? What does her husband have to do with it?

Every time Millie cleans at the Garricks, she tries to knock on Wendy’s door and is told to go away. That doesn’t stop her from listening in every time she passes the guest room, though. She has heard crying, screaming, and shattering but has never laid eyes on Wendy. Then, one day, Millie notices a trail of blood on the ground going from Wendy’s room to the bathroom. Like a punch in the gut, she sees a red, bloody hand print on the sink. It’s time for Millie to take action.

Millie pounds on Wendy’s door and threatens to call the police if she cannot get visual confirmation that she is okay. Finally, the door opens and Millie sees the elusive Mrs. Garrick for the first time. It takes her breath away. Wendy is emaciated, her face is badly bruised, and she has a split lip. Now, this is not Millie’s first experience with an abused wife. In fact, since her stint at the Winchester home, she has helped other wives leave their violent husbands. And, now, she knows that she must help Wendy too – by any means necessary. Millie is certain that Douglas is a dangerous man, but is he really? Read The Housemaid’s Secret to find out!

The Housemaid’s Secret was a wild ride and Freida McFadden truly outdid herself. The first Housemaid book was essentially “crazy husband with a secret room” 101. Like many people, I’m sure, I was expecting more of the same in the sequel. This was not the case at all and McFadden flipped the formula on its head. I’m so glad she did because The Housemaid’s Secret was infinitely better than the first. I legit had no idea what was going to happen next in this book and it made for a very exciting read.

In The Housemaid’s Secret, we were really able to see Millie come into her own and she is a formidable heroine. Of course, I liked her in the first book but I LOVED her in the second. Millie is strong in so many different ways and, oh my goodness, is she funny too. The beauty of Millie, though, is that she isn’t just a tough vigilante for hurt wives. She can be soft, gentle, and vulnerable and it makes her character highly dimensional. At the end of the day, Millie is going to do whatever TF she wants to do and I cannot wait to see where this reckless abandon takes her in the third book.

Overall, I am going to rate The Housemaid’s Secret with a nine out of ten stars. Very rarely do I find a sequel to be better than the first book of a series but this was the exception. I just got the third book from the library so stay tuned for another new Book Club installment soon!

What are you currently reading? What should I read next? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan31

5 Reasons To Move To Edinburgh

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5 Reasons To Move To Edinburgh

There’s no shortage of great cities in the UK. Brighton has a lovely charm, Bristol has a bohemian feel, and cities like Manchester and Liverpool very much have their own identities. And then, of course, there’s London, which is rightly regarded as one of the best cities in the world. People looking to move north of the border will find much to love, too. Glasgow’s identity is even more distinct than Liverpool’s, while Abderdeen’s cosmopolitan feel contrasts well with its wild surroundings.

But there’s nowhere quite like Edinburgh, a city that is highly sought after by people looking for all the convenience of living in a city without the “big city” feel. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key reasons people choose to move to the Scottish capital:

It’s Easy to Get Around:

Don’t like having to drive everywhere? Then Edinburgh will be just right. This highly walkable city makes it easy to get virtually everywhere on foot. Whether you’re going for a meal, to the shops, or even to the city’s main tourist attractions, you’ll find that you can get there using your legs — and what’s more, you’ll have great views to accompany you on your journey, too.

It’s Picturesque:

And we mean, really picturesque. There’s a reason why tourists who visit Edinburgh fall immediately in love with the city. After all, it’s hard not to be enamored when there’s just so much charm to be found wherever you look. From cobbled streets to centuries-old buildings, it feels like a place right out of the movies or books. And actually, that shouldn’t come as a surprise — many iconic, famous stories have drawn inspiration from the city; you can even go on a Harry Potter tour of the city.

There Are Properties Available:

Edinburgh is a much-visited city, and there are plenty of Airbnbs and hotels available. But what about actually living there? Well, there’s good news on that front. As you can see by visiting https://www.estateagencyedinburgh.co.uk/properties, Edinburgh’s property market offers excellent homes at reasonable prices. And because the city is so compact, you’ll find that it’s possible to get just about everywhere regardless of where you live.

There’s a Strong Job Market:

Moving to Edinburgh with the intention of finding a job? You’re in luck — Edinburgh has one of the best job markets in the country, with many different types of industries having a big presence in the city. While you can’t expect to simply turn up and land the job of your dreams, you’ll find that the city rewards the professionally-focused.

It’s Well-Connected:

You’ll love spending your weekends exploring all the attractions and events that Edinburgh has to offer, but should you decide that you’re ready for a weekend away, then you’ll have plenty of options available. Edinburgh’s train station connects with all parts of Scotland and England, while the city’s airport offers low-cost flights to Europe and beyond. And when you come back, you’ll have beautiful Edinburgh waiting for you.

Need a change of scenery? Edinburgh might be just the place for you!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jan31

Valentine’s Day Gift Inspo

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Valentine’s Day Gift Inspo

Hello!! Valentine’s Day is right around the corner so a gift guide is in order! I wouldn’t say that V-Day is a big deal to me because Johnny and I are constantly going on dates and surprising each other with random gifts. However, that’s not to say that it isn’t nice to celebrate the day together and we are going to see our favorite musical, Hadestown, for the occasion. I can’t wait!! Let’s explore some gifting inspiration to make your V-Day with your main squeeze even more special:

The Classics:

Listen, I say this Every. Year. for Valentine’s Day but it is always worth repeating: You literally cannot go wrong by gifting the classics to your SO. We’re talking chocolates, roses, a fancy bottle of booze, romantic dinner out, and items to pamper with like massage oils or the fixings for an ultra luxe bubble bath. People often view V-Day as a way to spoil your partner and there is a reason why all of these gifts are classic staples – they provide the perfect opportunity to spoil someone. Simple and perfectly sweet is never a bad idea!

For Fun:

Whenever Johnny and I are watching one of “our” shows and a character is wearing a novelty T-shirt that we like, we will look it up and purchase two so we can match. We have several matching T-shirt sets and no one knows what they’re from when we wear them, but we do! In fact, I am using this V-Day as an opportunity to get us a couple of funny shirts from the show Community. If you have a running joke or tradition with your SO, use it to your advantage! Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating your relationship so work with what is special to the both of you together. It could be a board game for your next evening in, crafting or renovation supplies if you are a DIY duo – whatever it is, your partner will immediately understand why you got it and that is a beautiful thing. ❤

Stepping Out:

Chances are that if your big date is seeing a performance, you already have tickets. If the move is a dinner out, then let this serve as a friendly reminder to make those reservations ASAP! A night on the town in lieu of a gift is a very popular way to go and for good reason – you can only have so much stuff. This is exactly why Johnny and I are seeing a musical! When you are out, try breaking free from your norms to enhance the celebratory atmosphere. Get that bottle of wine with dinner. Yes, please for dessert! Or grab a nightcap or snack after seeing a show so you can chat away about the experience. There are so many little things that can make the shift from a standard date night to a Valentine’s Day date night! Be spontaneous, be in the moment, and see where the evening will take you.

Staying In:

Sometimes, the most meaningful and romantic way to celebrate the big day is just staying in. Johnny and I have definitely done this before for V-Day. We watched our favorite movies, DoorDashed a feast, ate like kings, and had So. Much. FUN. How can you plan a special day from the comfort of your own home? Breakfast in bed is always a good place to start! Maybe you will get the supplies for a “paint night” in. How about baking and decorating delicious chocolate cake or cookies? You could spend the afternoon putting a puzzle together – anything goes! You can plan activities together or take turns on what you are going to do next. Then, get dressed up or stay dressed down for a candlelit meal that you prepared together or from your favorite eatery. *Chef’s kiss* Talk about a perfect day!

The most important thing of all on Valentine’s Day is that you are both having an amazing time together. Be sweet, be adventurous, and make it your best V-Day yet!

What are your Valentine’s Day plans? What was the best V-Day you ever had? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan30

January 2025 Finishes

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January 2025 Finishes

Howdy!! January felt like the longest year ever, didn’t it? I, for one, am so happy that this month is drawing to a close because it is one step closer to spring! Honestly, the winter in Ohio wasn’t too bad. Then, it got really bad out of nowhere and it sucked eggs. After moderate weather, it felt cruel and unusual to face zero degree days, white out level drives, and biting gusts of wind! So, smell ya later, January. But, before it’s official, let’s discuss my beauty finishes to wrap this month up in a bow:

Would I Use Again?

Bath & Body Works Poppy & Calypso Clementine Body Cream: YES

Clinical Works Vitamin C Cleanser: YES!!!

Dove Whole Body Deo Cream: NO

Dirty Works Miracle Cream: MAYBE

Why/Why Not?

Clinical Works Cleanser: I have been using this Vitamin C Cleanser by Clinical Works for what feels like an eternity. In all actuality, it was more like five months but you get the point. Normally, I am very excited to try out a new product after using up a long term one. In this case, I am so sad! I absolutely LOVED this cleanser. With a nickle sized dollop during each morning shower, I felt pleased with the results every time I looked in the mirror. My skin looked brighter and more radiant and was smooth as can be. This cleanser was incredibly light and would be great to use during any time of the year. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I will see it again at TJMaxx because my showers don’t feel the same without it lol. Highly recommend!

Dove Deo Cream: I received the Dove Coconut & Vanilla Deo Cream from Target as a freebie and it took me a month of daily use to complete the travel size bottle. This is not the first deo cream I used and my sentiments from this review remain. I love the bang for the buck with deo cream because you only need a tiny amount for full coverage. The sensation of this product was a turn off for me, though, because it was so much heavier than my normal roll on. If you need protection on areas other than armpits, this would be an amazing product and I would recommend it. It just doesn’t suit my preferences.

Dirty Works Moisturizer: I have always been curious about the Dirty Works brand and was eager to try out their Miracle Cream. It took me a month of twice daily use to finish the jar and it was pretty good, but not the best. I think I put this brand on a pedestal because I have wanted to try it so anything less than amazing didn’t satisfy me. That’s not to say that it wasn’t a nice moisturizer, but there wasn’t anything that stood out to me enough to warrant buying it again. If I saw it on clearance or as a last resort, I would go for it. I don’t plan on seeking it out, though!

That is all for my January 2025 Finishes! Here’s to another year of keeping you all in the know on what products to score and skip on!

Which products did you use up this month? What are your thoughts on any of the above products if you have used them before? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan29

BFF Christmas Gift

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BFF Christmas Gift

Hello!! Every holiday season, I look forward to celebrating with my besties, Lea and Kate. It has been a regular occurrence each year for longer than we all care to admit but the novelty of it will never wear off! Due to extenuating circumstances, my Christmas get together with Lea had to be postponed to this past weekend. I was missing her something FIERCE so it couldn’t have come a moment too soon! We had a divine meal, girl talked the evening away, and finally were able to exchange presents. Honestly, talk about saving one of the best for last because my A1 knocked it out of the park. Check it out:

When I opened my gift from Lea, I clutched my pearls. I have been the proud bunny mom to Melvin and Penelope for over two years now and I don’t think it’s humanly possible to be more obsessed with them than I already am lol. Mel and Pen have made my life so much better from the infinite amount of joy that I get simply by looking at them. Even on the worst days, it is absolutely impossible not to smile at the pure cuteness overload! In fact, as I type this, Melvin and Penelope are binkying all over the room and it is so distracting in the best way. ❤

While I have bunny home decor galore, I am lacking in any type of clothing that symbolizes my love. This does seem ridiculous as I think about it now because Johnny has a shirt that says Bunny Dad! You know what they say about hindsight lol. This hoodie is so perfect in every way. It is soft, comfortable, my favorite color, and just right for these frigid winter days. Coincidentally, it is actually the same brand that we use for Misny Merch hoodies and I could tell as soon as I tore the package open… I have literally been living in my Misny hoodie for the past month because it’s my favorite for all of the same reasons why I love my gift. Just don’t tell my boss that I like my Bunny Mama swag best! 😀 ❤

With that, my holiday hang outs are now complete and I am so happy to have been able to share that belated celebration with my best girl – the best gift of all!

Do you have any clothes related to your pets? What is your favorite hoodie to warm you up? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan28

New Hair, Who Dis? OOTD Bloopers

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New Hair, Who Dis? OOTD Bloopers

Helloooo to you and welcome to the Blooper Reel from my New Hair, Who Dis? OOTD! After a refreshing day off to get my hair done a few Fridays ago, Johnny and I went on a fantastic Date Night. I was really excited because I left the salon, as always, feeling like a billion bucks and I couldn’t wait to show it off. With my hair and makeup already right, all I had to do was slip on the outfit I built in my head and hit the town. And, of course, absolutely SLAY in the following shots before dinner:

Cradling my future food baby:

This new hair sure tastes good!

In my defense, it was REALLY windy out and I was getting blown away mid foot pop!

About to spill ALL the latest tea!!

Remember when I said it was REALLY windy out?

I’M SEXY!!!!

Simultaneously giving “aw shucks” and “whoopsy daisy” vibes

This past week was an incredibly busy one from start to finish. For the first time in a long time on Thursday, I ended up working a sixteen hour day and had to drive home in total white out conditions. As much as I would have loved to take a me day on Friday, the grind don’t stop! By the time my shift ended, I hit a complete wall but, you heard it here first: the grind don’t stop lol. Friday evening was my annual Christmas celebration with my bestie, Lea, and I had to rally. I cooked Cajun pasta for our dinner and it truly was an eat, drink, and be merry hang out. I cannot wait to show all of you my gift from her – it’s perfect!!

Once the festivities ended, I lingered around for a bit to hang out with Johnny and hit the bricks. Then, I woke up feeling like I got hit by a ton of bricks. Lol, I was so unbelievably tired and achy and no matter how much water I drank, I still felt thirsty. I was honestly worried I had Covid or was coming down with some kind of bug, but Johnny was feeling A-okay. As the morning continued, I literally had to go lay down and take a nap and I never, EVER take naps. That was what really made me worried as far as being sick goes because the only time I take naps is when I’m seriously under the weather.

When Johnny came up to check on me, I asked him for the millionth time if he was feeling okay. He was still right as rain and then broke down the activities of my last few days for me… I worked sixteen hours Thursday and had a longer day than intended on Friday because Lea came over later in the evening. He chalked the fatigue and soreness up to being tired and I am pleased to report that he was right on the money. After getting a ton of sleep and plenty of lounge time, I am writing this on Monday morning feeling *almost* as good as new. I say almost because a few extra hours of sleep instead of getting up at three AM wouldn’t hurt! 😀

In conclusion, the grind don’t stop lifestyle caught up to me so let this be a cautionary tale to take some time to recover after a long day. It will come around to bite you if you don’t!

Is your job tiring? How do you relax after a day at work? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan27

Fun Valentine’s Day Crafts For The Kiddos

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Fun Valentine’s Day Crafts For The Kiddos

Hello!! Is it just me or has January felt like an entire year? Lol, every time I look at the date, I assume it’s the fifteenth or something yet here we are nearing the end of the month! And, of course, this means that Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. I am so excited to celebrate with Johnny by seeing our all time favorite musical, Hadestown, in Akron. I also plan on having a Valentine’s Day craft party with my three niece girl squad, which is going to be a total blast! I’m arranging to do a few of the following with them and thought I would send some inspiration your way too:

Hand & Feet Hearts:

First and foremost, I am sure that my girls would love to make a special Valentine’s Day card for their parents. I am going to get some construction paper as well as pink, red, and white paint. They can make their cards however they would like, but I thought it would be really cute to make some hand and foot print hearts. If your kiddo isn’t opposed to messy hands or the sensation of cold paint on their feet, this is such a sweet and simple way to make a memorable keepsake. My big girls will probably want to do their own thing, but I just know they would be happy to help their new baby sister make some hand prints for her first craft!

Pipe Cleaner Bouquets:

When it comes to crafting with the girl squad, it is all about easy projects that are relatively quick to complete. Pipe cleaners are always a good option because even if they don’t make anything at all, they are still fun to play with! Whether you are making hearts, flowers, or even animals with the pipe cleaners, it is an opportunity to let creativity shine. If you are going the bouquet route, you might even want to pick up a a vase to paint or decorate with tissue paper and make your pipe cleaner flowers look like the real deal.

Picture Frames:

My best girls really enjoy looking through photo albums and seeing pictures displayed throughout the home. One of their options is going to be picking out their favorite picture of themselves and painting a wooden picture frame to house it in. This is a perfect gift for parents to display on their desk or on the mantle and gives the kiddos the chance to see their handiwork front and center.

Sweets & Treats:

It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without a sugar rush! My big girls are the best helpers for cookie and cupcake decorating and are always so proud of what they baked with their mom. If they would prefer to bake on our craft day, we will make a trip to the grocery store so they can pick out whatever sprinkles, frosting, and cut outs that they like. Then, they can have homemade Valentine’s Day treats that they designed for their parents and grandparents. Chocolate making is also a fabulous activity for littles and something different from the norm. Should they want to go this route, we will be making a trip to my in laws house instead of the grocery store! My mother-in-law is an amazing chocolateer and has molds and chocolate wafers for days to come in with the assist. ❤

Every holiday is infinitely more fun when I have three little minis to celebrate with. I can’t wait for our crafting jubilee!

What are your Valentine’s Day plans? What are some other ideas for V-Day crafts? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan26

New Hair, Who Dis? OOTD

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New Hair, Who Dis? OOTD

Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new OOTD here on lifewithlilred! This past Friday was an especially fabulous one because I got my hair done and went on a super fun Date Night with my main squeeze. Whenever Johnny and I step out for a night out, it calls for a killer OOTD because it’s a special occasion. And, as my color sat at the salon, I built one in my head so I could get dressed as soon as I got home and we could make our way to The Workz. I’m so glad I did because we were absolutely famished! Peep that new hair and let’s discuss:

Who? What? Wear?

Emerald Green Trench Coat: Nine West, Blu Boutique

Lace Top: Red By BKE, Buckle

Coated Skinny Jeans: Seven Jeans, TJMaxx

Platform Boots: Olivia Miller, TJMaxx

Heart Earrings: SugarFix By BaubleBar, Target

Purse: Anne Klein, TJMaxx

As I pondered my date night look at the salon, I decided that All Black Everything for the base of the outfit was the move. My hair was going to be plenty colorful enough and I wanted it to shine against a neutral palette. So, I went through my mental Rolodex of every black piece of clothing I own (There’s a ton, I’m an elder emo – remember?!) and locked in on the gorgeous lace top from Buckle. We were so in business because talk about a date night top! This little number is so sexy but still uber chic and I love the way I feel in it. Aside from my crop tops, this is actually one of the most form fittings tops I have and I like how it hugs my curves without feeling too constricting.

Next on the agenda was jeans and I went for my coated pair of black skinnies by Seven that features a snakeskin pattern. Why did this work with the lace top? If you are styling an outfit with only one color, you have permission to go crazy with mixing textures and patterns! Regardless of the lace or the sheen and pattern of the jeans, they still blended seamlessly together and created an ensemble that makes the eyes dance.

With the base of the outfit sorted, it was time for all of the extras. For shoes, I chose one of my go to pairs of platform boots by Olivia Miller. And as I was pulling from the same palette, the suede texture only enhanced the OOTD rather than looking out of place. The outfit was not yet complete, though, because it was cold AF! Since I added some extra height with the boots, I slipped on one of my favorite, mid calf length trench coats by Nine West. The beauty of an all one color outfit is that your pop of colors are REALLY going to pop. The bold emerald green looked so luxe against the base of the outfit and the sheen of the coat closely mimicked the jeans, creating even more cohesion.

Finally, the finishing touches. For earrings, I put on a pair of dangly, three tiered red hearts for some movement and another surprise color addition. These helped draw further attention to my new do, which I couldn’t wait to show off. And, last but not least, I slung my beautiful Anne Klein bag over the crook of my arm and was ready to hit the town with my honey!

Stay tuned for the Blooper Reel of my New Hair, Who Dis? OOTD where “wind in the hair” takes on a whole new meaning. See you then!

What is your favorite jewel tone color? What is your favorite color to wear? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan25

What Would You Do?

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What Would You Do?

Hello!! Every job I’ve ever had has involved working with the general public in some way shape or form. I like to think I’m a people person, even if I’m not always feeling it! During my fifteen year tenure of working with the public, I feel like I’ve encountered every situation imaginable – good or bad. And, sometimes, I leave situations feeling like it wasn’t my best work lol. This past week, I found myself in a situation that I have never experienced before and it really left me scratching my head. So, I’m curious, What Would You Do? Story time:

This past week in Ohio has been BRUTAL. We have had temperatures in the negatives or close to with very strong wind, making it even colder. On Wednesday, I had a quick errand to run and it was a whopping two degrees by the time I got to the store. Allow me to paint a picture: This particular store is located in a plaza with a handful of other businesses. When I arrived, the parking lot was completely empty with only one car at the farthest end of the shopping center. Due to the weather, any signs of parking lines were invisible so I parked my car as usual and headed into the store for a less than five minute stop.

When I opened the door, a literal gale of wind followed me inside. I walked up to the front desk, only to be informed by the employee that I parked incorrectly because my car wasn’t on a slant. I said something along the lines of not being able to see the lines and now I know for next time. However, he insisted I take my sorry ass back out in the two degree weather and fix it. I almost thought he was joking until I realized he was serious.

Because I was on a time crunch to get to work and didn’t have the time to go to a different location, I did as I was told. I was greeted with a sarcastic “welcome back”, made my purchase, and promptly left. In the three or so minutes I spent in the store, not a single car entered the parking lot to be blighted by my poor parking job. *Massive Eye Roll*

Maybe I’m overreacting, but I thought this was so strange lol. I just feel like it’s not a good look to send paying customers back outside to fix a parking job in an empty lot. Had I had the time, I would have just left rather than go along with it. Trust and believe I was screaming profanities in my head, though! In conclusion, I won’t be giving that store any more of my business.

Was this weird or is it just me? What would you have done in this situation? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan24

Hair Day!

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Hair Day!

Howdy!! This past weekend, I enjoyed a fabulous trip to the Shear Shop to get my hair right. It was a most exciting visit because my beloved stylist, Anna, became the new owner of the salon! I was ecstatic when I saw the breaking news on Facebook and was so eager to be able to congratulate her in real life. Anna has been doing my hair for over two decades now and we are incredibly close. I am so proud of her for this next step in her journey and all of the hard work she has put in for the greater good of the salon and staff. She is simply the best. ❤

This time around, we were going to do a slight variation to the color palette we established at my last appointment. We were originally using a combination of Pulp Riot’s Nightfall, Eloped, Vintage Vegas, and Pyro. While the soft peachy shade of Eloped was pretty, it didn’t do anything for me as it started to fade. So, our plan was to brighten things up. We kept with Nightfall and Pyro, but used a mixture of neon orange Lava and Eloped for a more pronounced pop:

With our game plan prepped, it was time to bleach! Using darker colors has been great for the health of my hair because the bleach only needs to sit for twenty minutes. When I go light for the summer, it’s a totally different story lol. After the bleach has been washed out, Anna and I always find ourselves not hating the results. In fact, we were obsessed this time and it gave us mermaid vibes that we will be using as inspiration for sweet summertime. Check it out:

Despite loving what the bleach did, winter is here to stay and Anna began to paint my hair with my cold weather hues. We have had a lot of trial and error when it comes to color placement and Anna has truly perfected her method. Sometimes, the colors can get muddy when we are trying to do several different placements with multiple colors. During my last appointment, she wanted to try a more simple approach: Paint my roots, do one color for the top layer, and one color for the bottom layer. It worked like a charm and she employed the same method as it yielded excellent results. And made me look like a bird of paradise:

After my Pulp Riot concoction sat for fifty minutes, it was time for a wash, a cut, and the grand reveal. Thanks to Anna’s ingenious technique, we were able to fully see each color for what it was. A bold, deep red at the roots, vibrant orange, and a midnight sky navy blue. Whenever I go to the Shear Shop, I always leave feeling like a billion bucks. This time, though, I felt like a billion AND then some!

I cannot wait for all of you to see my new do so stay tuned for a brand new OOTD to show it off coming soon!

Where do you go to get your hair done? How long has your stylist been doing your hair? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah