Monthly Items I’m Loving
Hello! Whoa, October flew by! I’m excited about the cooler weather, but I am not looking forward to this time change. Is it always rough for you too? I’m hoping to get into a better routine to help me get through the darker days. Anyways, I have rounded up my monthly top 10 favorite finds for October. This list will always be a random assortment of items I’m loving, using a lot, watching, etc. I hope you enjoy it and if so, please subscribe here.
1. Adidas Platform Sneaker –
Talk about nostalgia! Adidas Superstars were my go-to shoes for years growing up. I have wanted a pair of platform sneakers for a while now and originally was going to get a Converse pair. I came across these though and fell in love! The Adidas Nizza Platforms are a good combination of trendy and cute. They are also very comfortable and not too heavy. I got the same size as I wear in Converse.
2. Lancome Mascara Primer –
Anyone else want longer, fuller eyelashes, feel like their mascara flakes off as the day goes on, or wants to condition their lashes over time? This for you! The Cils Booster XL Super-Enhancing Mascara Base is worth every penny. Not only does it make my lashes have more volume and look longer, but it also helps my mascara stay on all day and without leaving marks under my eyes. The Sephora sale started today for some so snag it now! Here is a little more information on the levels and dates for the sale Rouge: 20% off from October 30 to November 9, VIB: 15% off from November 3 to November 9 and Insider: 10% off from November 5 to November 9.
3. Paper Bloom 14k Gold filled Necklace –
Paper Bloom makes shopping small and supporting local business so easy. Chico, California local, Kelly, is making beautiful, quality 14k gold-filled jewelry at a very reasonable price. She sells through her Instagram @_paper_bloom_ and has dainty gold necklaces and bracelets. She makes the extremely popular and versatile paper clip necklaces as well as a selection of other great chain options. They are perfect for layering. I am obsessed with this freshwater pearl necklace I got and her customer service was amazing.
For a little more information – Gold-filled jewelry is of great quality and lasts years without any tarnishing. It is the middle quality being better than gold plated but not as nice as solid gold. I have worn 14k gold-filled rings and hoops daily for years and they still look amazing. All that being said get your girl or yourself something from Paper Bloom and I promise you won’t be disappointed.
4. Coffee Table Books –
Did you know you can shop online at TJMaxx? Game changer right? Although I love the store, there are always great finds online too. During the holidays especially they have a great selection of cookbooks and coffee table type books. I love styling with them and enjoy getting inspiration flipping through the pages. I have even seen Kate Spade and Gray Malin books in the store. These are a few I found online that look pretty and interesting.
5. TRUFFle Hot Sauce –
Holy smokes! 4 stars and over 7,300 reviews on Amazon doesn’t lie. I just found this and it had to make the October top 10 favorite finds list. With a blend of ripe chili peppers, organic agave nectar, black truffle, and savory spices TRUFF hot sauce is so good. It has a little sweetness at first and then comes in with a kick at the end. The truffle flavor is perfection. They have 3 flavors and I tried the original black truffle in the black bottle. You can buy a bundle of all 3 and mini versions on their website. The minis would be the best stocking stuffer for any hot sauces lovers. If you’re wondering about the heat level I would say it’s similar to sriracha.
6. Kitsch Masks –
Well it looks like we won’t be getting rid of masks anytime soon. I know we all have them at this point, but I feel like I need a couple more as I wash them more and also to keep in my car in case I forget one. Kitsch makes cute comfortable ones that come in 3 packs for $12.00. They have black, army green, white and black dots, a darker leopard, floral and more. I wore mine for an hour and a half flight and it was comfortable and breathable.
7. Barefoot Seltzer –
I feel like there might be some immediate negative reactions to this because Barefoot wine isn’t usually the go-to, especially from people who like me who lived in wine country heaven. However, I was truly impressed with this wine-based seltzer. I got it randomly at a gas station before heading to the beach for sunset. I wasn’t even looking for alcohol but saw it and thought sure I’ll try it. They are 4% alcohol, 70 calories, and have 2 grams of sugar. I tried the strawberry guava flavor, but want to try the pineapple passionfruit and the peach nectarine. They would be great additions to a gin cocktail or a homemade sangria.
8. Fringed Cloth Napkins –
The event planner in me loves these napkins. I used fringed napkins for an elegant fiesta themed event and I have loved them ever since. In my search for my Hygge Worth Fall Decor post found here, I came across these at Home Depot. I didn’t even know they carried stuff like this online, but was extremely impressed with the selection of items. I haven’t actual felt these yet, but the brand has great reviews. They come in 8 colors and are around $25 for a set of 4.
9. Super Scrunchies –
Scrunchies are back and I am here for it! There are a lot of options out there but I have been very impressed with a couple of extra big or super scrunchies that I got from Old Navy. I love this two pack I got with this leopard one in a lighter fabric and also a mustard corduroy one. They have other colors and prints in the bigger size as well as minis and the regular size. Old Navy also has great sales so some packs are under $5 right now! They also have cute headbands, clips, and coil hair ties.
10. ‘Get the Guy’ by Matthew Hussey –
Full disclosure I debated sharing this because I was kind of embarrassed, but then I thought about it more and I have absolutely no reason to be. I should be proud of myself if anything. Dating isn’t easy, especially as we get older. Anyone who is putting more effort into learning what will work best and being the best version of themselves should be applauded and not feel ashamed. Just like cooking the perfect turkey, reviews for best travel pillows, favorite hikes in Yellowstone, we use our resources and read up for more information. If you’re like me and want to be married with a family one day, investing in dating is investing in our future. Anyways, just throwing it out there for my single ladies who may feel like me sometimes.
Backtrack a little, I had listened to Matthew Hussey on a podcast and loved the episode. He gives great advice on dating and men. He has a great British accent and just seems like a nice guy. Yes, sometimes it’s obvious stuff, but I feel like it hits you differently when it comes from a man who has done extensive research on dating and men. His book was part of a two for one credit on audible so knowing I liked him and he would be the narrator, I gave it shot. I haven’t finished it yet, but it’s a great listen for anyone who is single and trying to navigate the dating world. I will note it’s not as practical during covid times with social distancing and facemasks, but nonetheless a good read or listen.
Here are a few links to help you find local bookstores to support small businesses – Indie Bookstore Finder – Bookshop – American Booksellers Association – or you can find it at all the usual suspects.
Hope you enjoyed my monthly top 10 favorite finds for October and had a good month! As we head into the time change and a very different looking holiday season remember to take it easy on yourself and try to find the joy and magic of the season where you can.
I will have a number of different gift guides and my to Sephora sale picks coming soon. Take care and thanks for reading.
xo, Tracy