time saver

*So I'm just going to jump right in here and pretend I haven't been MIA for 3 weeks* 

I think most of you will agree with me that any tricks or tips to save some time these days is as appreciated as a J. Crew sale on pay day. No?

I bought this tube of Freedom polymer top coat from Julep over a month ago with the hopes it would give me a Shellac-like manicure for a fraction of the cost over time. With wedding season in full swing and making a commitment to tighten my budget, I spent $18 on the Julep top coat hoping my skepticism of its seemingly-radical product description would prove incorrect.

After over 10 at-home manicures, here is what I have found.

The Pros:
1. Dries extremely fast and effectively. Like I can take out laundry from the dryer five minutes after I've finished applying.
2. Gives nails the high-gloss gel look.
3. Comes off easily with regular non-acetone nail polish remover.

The Con:
1. Doesn't last nearly as long as a gel manicure. I get about 4 days before the color starts chipping.

For me, the multiple benefits outweigh the one disappointment I have had with this product.

PS: I was not compensated in any way for this review, just my thoughts and hope it's helpful for you!

spring shoe

It may have been 20 degrees last night in Kansas City. I may have been boycotting my coat closet for the past month against the weatherman's advice. And right now I'm inconveniently obsessing over these shoes from Zara. Aren't they amazing? Best shoes I've seen all season.

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energy bites

Today I'm going to tell you about these delicious energy bites I've become a major fan of lately. I am one of those people who prefer 6 small meals (or constantly grazing) over 3 large ones a day. While I'd love to snack on jalapeno potato chips every afternoon a few hours after lunch, my pencil skirts won't allow for much more waistline to cover. I found this recipe a while ago and have created my own version that I really love. So if you're like me and need a little pick-me-up between meals, try these all-natural, protein-packed energy bites out!

Here are the ingredients I use:

Since this picture, I've started using Natural Jif, and actually like the taste more than the regular Peter Pan. I also use less honey and vanilla than the recipe in the link states because I enjoy the nutty flavors over the sweet. Here are the measurements I have found the most delicious:

1/2 cup natural peanut butter

Less than 1/3 (but more than 1/4) cup honey

1 tsp vanilla

1 cup old fashioned oats

3/4 cup unprocessed wheat bran

1/3 cup unsweetened coconut

1/2 cup slivered almonds, chopped fine

The end result - about 12 of these yummy balls of goodness!

oh so oily

I have been reading tons of articles lately about the benefits of using natural oil as a part of your health and beauty routine. At first I figured these folks must all be nutso granola to the extreme people. Then I started reading Amazon reviews and became truly intrigued. Longer lashes, smooth skin, all natural ingredients? Yes please.

A few weeks ago, as part of my recent job acceptance shopping spree, I bought Josie Maran's argan oil from Sephora. This stuff is amazing. I use it most every night and in the mornings if I know it is going to be cloudy out. (It doesn't have SPF, so if the weather is going to be nice or I'm going to be outside a lot, I use my old faithful Lumene Vitamin C+ lotion.) A little goes a long way with argan oil, and it moisturizes while barely feeling like there is anything on my skin. At first it seemed counterintuitive to be putting oil on my combo skin; oily in the T zone and dryer elsewhere. I can honestly say this oil leaves my face feeling light and hydrated, not oily, and the best part - no break outs!

Another variety I am super interested in getting my hands on is castor oil. I have a minor major obsession with eyelashes - my own and everyone else's. Isn't it every girl's challenge in life to find the perfect mascara? (I'm still looking by the way....) Apparently castor oil is like a natural Latisse. I mean, sounds way too good to be true, am I right? Wikipedia says there is no scientific proof that castor oil promotes hair growth, but it's so darn inexpensive I might as well give it a try. I'll report my findings, of course.

Are there any other kinds of oils you're a big fan of that I should try?

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new beginnings

I have good news and bad news. The bad: There will be a bit of radio silence as I dive into training and become a productive part of my new company as quickly as possible. The good: I'm so happy with the position and company. The days are flying by!

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see ya reader

Have you heard the news? Google Reader is going bye bye on July 1st. I'm super sad, as this is my preferred method of staying connected with my favorite blogs.

The most popular way to keep in touch with finer feelings post-July 1 is through bloglovin'. Check out the button on the right side bar to follow along that way.

Many bloggers use Facebook to keep their readers and friends involved. Having recently deleted the FB app on my phone (and SO happy with that decision), I don't see a finer feelings page making its way to your feed anytime soon. Facebook has proved to be an effective way to gain readership; however, it is just not a platform I believe to be a good fit. Unfortunately I find it to be more of a place for one-upping and narcissism than for sharing enlightening stories and supporting each other (there are of course exceptions to this at times).

I do appreciate all of you reading and following along, and strive to continue the growth of this little space of internet. That being said, I sure hope you continue to follow along here. I would love to hear your opinions on Facebook, and of other blog reading websites that may be a decent replacement for Google Reader.

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welcome back, mr. jt

I'm assuming you've all been listening the majority of the past 4 hours like I have.

So, what do you think?

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