In the past, I enjoyed creating monthly favorites posts, much like a personal diary where I could reflect on the beauty products, favorite beverages, tasty snacks, and intriguing TV shows that captured my heart each month. I would share snippets of my personal life, allowing readers to connect with me on a deeper level. These posts were not only fun to write but also enjoyable to revisit, as they captured moments and experiences that were significant to me.

However, everything changed dramatically on January 19, 2022, when I lost my dad. I was by his side in the hospital, and that experience profoundly shook me. The very essence of my being shifted, and the warmth of life seemed to fade away.

Then, heartbreak struck again just under two months later, on March 9, 2022, when our beloved cat, William, unexpectedly passed away at home. He was just shy of his third birthday, and his loss felt like losing a child. The void left by both of these losses was overwhelming and left me grappling with unfathomable grief.

From that point forward, I couldn’t bring myself to write another favorites post. Nothing felt right or worthy of being labeled a “favorite.” The only thing that provided some semblance of relief was Xanax, a temporary escape from the crushing weight of my sadness.

I attempted to articulate my feelings through a written post about these events, but I could never summon the courage to hit publish. That post remains trapped in my drafts, a silent testament to my struggles, likely to stay there indefinitely.

There were times I felt compelled to share my story, yet most days, I opted to shield you from my sorrow. I chose to keep writing about other topics, pretending that the profound grief I was experiencing hadn’t completely enveloped me. It was a challenging period, one where I was merely existing, navigating through the depths of my pain.

Today, I am finally ready to reintroduce my monthly favorites. It feels invigorating to find joy in the little things again, even if they may seem trivial to others. I appreciate your understanding and support during this journey, and I hope you find enjoyment in the things that have brought me happiness this summer.

Discover the Benefits of Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash

I spent weeks eagerly checking the shelves at my local Target for Naturium’s body wash, which seemed perpetually out of stock. Finally, I managed to grab a bottle, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. This body wash not only cleanses but also provides deep hydration, making it an essential addition to my shower routine. A little goes a long way, and the delightful scent enhances the experience, leaving my skin feeling refreshed. As winter approaches, I anticipate that this will be a lifesaver for combating dryness, and I enjoy using a silicone scrubby to apply it for an extra touch of luxury in my daily cleansing ritual.

Achieve a Sun-Kissed Glow with Glow On Girl Gradual Glow Tanning Lotion

This summer, my only source of tan has been from bottles or spray tans, thanks to Amanda Hood at Glow On Girl Beauty. Amanda recently launched her own line of sunless tanning products, and I have completely fallen in love with her offerings. The gradual tanning lotion is exceptional; it boasts a pleasant fragrance, absorbs quickly, and provides just the right amount of color for a natural look. This product makes the application process effortlessly easy, and I’m eagerly looking forward to trying her mousse next, which promises even more tanning possibilities.

Transform Your Contouring Game with e.l.f. Halo Glow Contour Wand

Why spend $42 on the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Contour Wand when you can achieve stunning results with the e.l.f. Halo Glow Contour Wand? Trust me, this affordable gem is a game changer. The sponge tip stamp applicator makes it incredibly enjoyable to use, and it blends seamlessly into the skin, delivering beautiful results without any hassle. I personally use the Light/Medium shade for a natural finish, and I can’t recommend it enough.

If you’re curious about how it performs, check out my full e.l.f. tutorial on Instagram, where I demonstrate its application. Be sure to watch until the end to see the creative ways I utilize it to achieve a flawless look.

Revitalize Your Hair with JVN Nurture Intense Hydration Hair Mask

As someone who colors their hair and spends time in saltwater pools during the summer, I’ve learned the importance of giving my hair that extra TLC. The JVN Nurture Intense Hydration Hair Mask has undergone a recent reformulation, and I must say, the new scent and thicker, pudding-like texture are absolutely delightful. After using this mask, my hair feels incredibly soft, shiny, and bouncy, which is the ultimate goal for anyone looking to maintain healthy locks throughout the summer.

For a closer look at this transformative product, check out my video showcasing its application and how thick and luxurious it is. You won’t want to miss it!

Enjoy a Fun and Effective Sunscreen Experience with Vacation Whip Sunscreen Mousse

If you’re someone who struggles with reapplying sunscreen, you’ll absolutely love the Vacation Whip Sunscreen Mousse. It dispenses like whipped cream, making the process not only enjoyable but also effective. The nostalgic scent reminiscent of 80s sunscreen adds a touch of fun to your sun protection routine. I diligently reapplied every two hours during my outdoor activities, and much to my delight, I avoided sunburn and even managed to maintain my fair skin. While some might see this as a downside, I view it as a victory in preventing sun damage.

I even stumbled upon a humorous TikTok where someone accidentally mistook this sunscreen for whipped cream while on a boat. Honestly, I can’t blame her; the texture is that tempting!

*Product was gifted for review purposes.

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