Spring is in the air! Flowers are blooming! The days are longer and warmer!

I’m back with another list of things I’ve tried and loved for the past couple of months.

Here’s a song I’ve been enjoying recently from one of my favorite bands, Cage the Elephant. Technically, this single was released in April, but I love it so much that I simply must share it now.

Kosas Cloud Set Baked Setting & Smoothing Powder - Feathery

This one went viral on TikTok a couple of years ago, and now I know why. It’s amazing! It makes my skin look poreless and smooth and gets rid of shine. I like to apply it as the last step in my makeup routine, or just by itself under my eyes and forehead. It’s so versatile and easy to use!

rhode skin Peptide Lip Treatment - Watermelon Slice

Okay, fine. I caved into the ads. I was curious what the hype was all about when it came to rhode skin lip products and after seeing so many ads, I bought the lip treatment. At first, I was a bit disappointed. The fragrance is as strong as I initially expected it to be, and the packaging is a bit dull (I know, it’s their aesthetic; that’s just my opinion). I soon noticed, however, that every time I applied the lip treatment, I wouldn’t have to apply any other lip product for hours.

This lip treatment is very rich and thick; it keeps my lips soft and moisturized for literal hours. The smell is subtle but sweet. It’s great for layering on top of lipstick or wearing just by itself, giving the ultimate glossy, it-girl look.

Shopping on Depop

Recently, I realized that I’ve run out of business casual wear for the office and need to refresh my wardrobe. To shop more sustainably, I turned to the secondhand shopping app Depop, which I’ve used in the past, but have been inactive on for the last few years. I found so many great purchases at such good deals, such as an Everlane raincoat and a cute Levi’s collar top, both for around $20.

If you’re looking for great deals on your favorite brands and want to give gently used clothes a new life, definitely consider downloading Depop.

Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey

I was recommended this book by a friend (thank you, Lyn!) and I cannot recommend it enough for all to read. It serves as a reminder that resting is an act of resistance against our capitalistic society that teaches us that we need to hustle and grind every day. It’s a reminder that resting is our birthright; we don’t need to earn the right to rest or recover. We must rest if we want to survive and reclaim our humanity.

The book was a bit challenging to read at first. In the beginning, I thought, “How can I even begin to rest? I have so much to do!” As I listened to Hersey’s narration in the audiobook more and more, though, I slowly began to get comfortable with the idea of resting. I began napping more, going to bed at a reasonable hour, daydreaming, walking (while listening to the audiobook!), stretching, and drastically reducing my screen time. Although it’s still a challenge and there are some days I rest more than others, I have made great strides in prioritizing rest in my daily life.

Walking!!

On the topic of resting and resistance against grind culture, I walked a lot these past couple of months! Doing something “unproductive” such as walking and looking at the scenery is an act of resistance that restores my soul. Walking also provides so much clarity, and as someone who spends most of her time working indoors, it’s nice to get out of the home for fresh air and sunshine.

Photo of the marina I took during a walk when visiting home in the Bay Area

Pom Wonderful Pomegranate drink

They say don’t shop hungry because you buy way more food than you need. We must include shopping while thirsty in the mix. I bought this drink on impulse one day and wow, it’s really good! It’s perfectly tart, tangy, and sweet. I love the antioxidant and other health benefits of drinking this as well.

Chomps Beef Stick

I’ve never had a beef stick before, but I also saw this trending on TikTok and was curious to try it. I’m here to report that Chomps are yummy! They’re a great, protein-filled snack, perfect for in-between meals or on the go. I like packing one as a work snack or for when I know I’m going to run some errands and will get hungry later, but don’t want to buy food when I’m out.

I’ve only tried the original beef stick and the turkey stick. Both are delicious, but the turkey one is a bit dryer.

These were my favorite products, food, and practices this past February and March!

Have you tried any of these? Are you going to try any of these this month?

Until next we meet, dearest friends!

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