Old Navy Winter/Spring Haul 2020

First of all, I would be remiss if I didn't mention the change from my last post to this one. For starters, we have been social distancing all week, only going out for needed groceries. We are lucky that we can do what we do from my home. Not only can my husband work from home, but his workplace was insistent on it.

In my last post, I mentioned our hopeful trip to Michigan. Even before the borders announced the impending closure, we had already decided it would be wrong and selfish to go. As someone who thrives on traditions, it sucks. However, I also know that I would rather do my part and protect myself and my family. And I know we will still celebrate our anniversary (at home!) on the day, the vibe will just be different. The important thing is that my husband and I have each other, not where we are and what we are doing. We'll do a trip later to make up for it when the time is right.

What I also want to say is that I don't know how serious I will get on here. Believe me when I say that I take this virus very seriously and care deeply about what is going on in the world. This blog has always been an escape for me, as I started it back in 2007 while I was mourning the loss of my grandmother. I've been seeing people judging and policing what people do and do not post. Please don't do that. You don't know someone fully based on what they post. We all need a mental break and escape, a dose of normalcy in a time of uncertainty. This is mine. It's also my hobby, my job, and a little of everything else. I guess I just wanted to put that out there and clear the air.

So yeah, today's post is about my latest Old Navy haul. And that's okay.

Keep reading!

Winter 2020 Torrid Haul

If there's one thing that I love, it's finding a good sale or discount! And one thing that keeps me from taking advantage of ordering from Torrid is the high shipping cost. Thanks, but no thanks! Rewind to a few weeks ago when I opened an email from them giving me $25 off of a $50 purchase and free shipping to Canada. I had to take advantage! Okay...I didn't have to take advantage, but I have no regrets that I did. I gave the heads up to my SIL at the same time, because I'm an enabler extraordinaire! ;)

I didn't go too crazy, only buying three clothing items and a belt. As you'll see below! The $25 off could not be applied to sale items, but I couldn't pass up two of the items that were on for a great deal. And again, it was nice to have free shipping and access to the online exclusives. My order came about three days after I ordered, which was faster than I thought it would arrive. I wouldn't pay the full shipping, but I'd order when they have free shipping again. Until then, I don't mind going into one of my local stores. If you are unfamiliar with Torrid, they offer clothing in sizes 10-30. While I often find their clothing at the regular pricing too expensive, I live for their clearance and sales.

Keep reading!

Recent Old Navy and H&M Hauls - Winter 2019

This is a collective haul post. I purchased the Old Navy items about two weeks ago, give or take. I actually went there again this past weekend to use a voucher (I'll touch on that below) and in the same trip to the mall, I went to H&M. Everything I got at both stores are below and I'll try to link to everything. As it is recent, most of it should be available in store, online, or both.

I had Super Cash for Old Navy and I hate for that to go to waste. You can use Super Cash on clearance, so I found great deals both in that section and a few of the sales that were going on at the time. And actually, some of the deals going on right now are even better and they are giving out Super Cash again to use in the future. If ordering online, don't forget to use eBates. If you haven't signed up yet and are interested, I'd truly appreciate you using my link in my sidebar to join as I earn $10 with every referral.

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Low Carb Cheeseburger Casserole ft. Sir Kensington's Sauces

I was sent two Sir Kensington sauces to try from Chick Advisor- their Mayonnaise with Avocado Oil and the Special Sauce Remoulade. The recipe I'm sharing today works perfectly with either, but my favorite pairing is with the Special Sauce. If you're like me, the minute you hear "special sauce", you think of a burger from a specific fast food chain. And this one gives it a run for its money and dare I say that I like it more?!

Below, you can find my review of both products and my recipe for a low carb cheeseburger casserole. Obviously, you can enjoy this even if you're not doing low carb. I hope you'll try all three out!

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Legendary Apothecary Smooth Feet

When given the chance to review this foot oil, I jumped at the opportunity. This year, one of my goals is to up my skincare game about the parts I neglect the most- feet being among them. As someone who lives in Toronto, I basically live in boots during the winter so something that will soften and hydrate my feet sounds like a savior. Honestly, I'm not sure if my feet go through more during boot season or sandal season!

A company called Legendary Apothecary have created a product called Smooth Feet that promises those very things. And for the past month, I have put the oil to the test! First, let's find out more about the product and then I will delve into my thoughts.

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Old Navy Semi-Annual Clearance Sale Winter 2019

I couldn't resist. I tried, but then I saw a sweater that I had been wanting on massive discount and got nearly the entire order for what that sweater originally cost after added discounts and money back through eBates. I got a few things for myself and my husband for under $70 and I consider that a retail success. Because I just ordered these, most of them are still available online and possibly stores.

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Old Navy Friends and Family Sale 2018

Ah, one of my favorite times of year. I mean, yes to fall and Christmas, but that's a given with me. We all know that. I'm talking about Old Navy's F&F sale. 50% off speaks to me. It was extremely hard not to get carried away. Between what I am showing you here and the items I got for my husband for Christmas, everything came to under $150.

I went into this knowing I wanted a few new pieces for this season and winter, as well as a few new pieces to lounge in. I've recently lost some weight and I'm having to rework my closet a bit. And hello excuse for a few new items, #amiright?! ;) Did you pick up anything from the sale or do you have your eye on anything at Old Navy right now? I know I do. And with this order, I got some Super Cash, so I might just have to put that to use. I say might, but we all know that's code for "extremely likely". Haha! Here's what I got this time!

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Old Navy Fall 2017 Haul

This is a collective haul, by the way. Three different hauls, to be exact. I took advantage of 30% or 40% off (can't remember which percentage) on the first, used the Super Cash from that order on the second, and used the Friends and Family discount on the third (which came with more Super Cash - tempting!). Regardless, I stocked up and scored some great deals and now I want to share what I bought and if I think they are worth a buy or not.

I obviously had comfort or warmth on my mind for quite a few of the things that I purchased! Some of the things may also no longer be on the website(s), but I saw many of these in store just last weekend. And one is not an exact match as to what I found in store, but very similar which I'll mention below. I called this a "fall haul" because these are out right now, but these items will definitely take me through winter!

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How I Style a Denim Dress for Winter ft. eShakti

I could not live without denim. I don't care what it is. Jeans, shorts, skirts, shirts, dresses. Light, dark, medium, acid-washed. Give me all of them! I haven't met a denim I didn't like. I've met plenty of fits of denim I didn't like, but that's a whole other ballgame!

Today, I'm featuring the newest piece of denim to my collection. eShakti was kind enough to send this to me and honestly? I think this is my favorite piece I've gotten from them yet! You can see my other two dresses here and here. Also in the second one, I still had my knee brace and walker. What a difference a year makes! Hallelujah!

I'm sharing two ways that I change up my dresses and in this case, a denim dress. I'll also share another way or two that I would style this and a few current pieces that I am loving that are available at eShakti right now. One thing to know about eShakti is that they cater to a lot of different sizes (0-36!) and you can customize just about every item. Pockets, you guys. You can add pockets!

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Arbonne Exfoliating New Cell Scrub and Foaming Sea Salt Scrub

Here I am, back at it again with some exciting skincare products! These two scrubs are from Arbonne, the Exfoliating New Cell Scrub and the Foaming Sea Salt Scrub. I never say no to a good scrub! Scrubs and moisturizers are probably the items I have the most of in my skincare collection. I recently showed my latest pamper routine that involved bath products, but I use these in the shower. I like to mix things up a bit!

Keep reading to hear my thoughts on these two products! And click on the Arbonne tag at the bottom of this post to see other products that I have reviewed from the brand.

The packaging is crisp and fresh and adds a nice pop of color in my shower. Because of the citrus in this product, I do have a mild reaction but I counteract it with a dose of Benadryl and I am good to go. Can we talk about what a nuisance that allergy is? Citrus is just about everywhere. I'm just happy that my reactions aren't more severe than itchy skin, hives, and migraines. Still not fun, I assure you. Bless Benadryl for existing!

I don't usually share pictures of skincare formulas, but these two are worth showing. The New Cell scrub is bright white and the Sea Salt scrub has little white (oxidized polyethylene) microbeads. I am trying to stay away from plastic beads in products and there is controversy with products that use them. Between those, the pumice, and sea salt, the Sea Salt scrub is a little too harsh for my sensitive skin. But I've been using it on tougher areas like my elbows and heels with success. I love that it has a little foaming action. I cannot fully recommend this scrub for an all over scrub, but if you have dry and cracked feet and elbows, it may be worth a try for you. It retails for $40 US/ $46 CA.

As for the New Cell scrub, it warns that your skin might stay red for up to two hours afterward. Having such sensitive skin, I was nervous upon first use but this does not feel abrasive at all. And while my skin did get slightly red (as it does with just about every single product that touches it - ugh), it did not last that long and it was not uncomfortable. This did make my skin feel very dry after, but a dose of moisturizer fixed that right up. While a breakout is rare for me, they can and do happen. This did not bring about any spots or issues. My skin felt clean and softer when all was said and done. This retails for $34 US/ $40 CA.

As with any skincare item, I recommend looking at the ingredients and seeing if they will work for you. I mentioned my reaction to citrus, so I only use these once a week or every other week. There are plant extracts and fragrance oils in these that can cause reactions for some. Out of these two products, I like the New Cell scrub. I think it will be great during colder months to rescue facial skin from all of the dry air from the indoor heating units and the cold blustery winds outside.

Let me know if you have tried either of these! Are you a scrub lover like I am?

**I was sent these products for testing and reviewing purposes. All thoughts and pictures are my own. There are no affiliate links in this post.

Old Navy Fall and Winter Haul

Admittedly, I went a little nuts with Old Navy recently. I had super cash to use and then the F&F sale came and went. Considering I got all of this recently, I would assume most can still be found online and in stores. Y'all know I love my polar bears and Old Navy delivered on that obsession! There's more polar bear items available and don't think they are not on my Christmas list. ;)

I kept fall and winter in mind with this haul, so here's what I got!

1. Boyfriend Drapey Tee - If you can find any of these, grab them. Such a great length and fabric!
2. Long & Lean Rib-Knit Tunic - A nice long length that is perfect for layering over leggings.
3. Go-Warm Perfomance Fleece Jacket - Love the thumb loops.
4. Go-Dry Built In Shelf Bra Tank - Bought this for physio. No matter your boob size, this bad boy offers amazing support!
5. Boyfriend Plaid Pocket Shirt - Because I don't think one can have enough plaid. I'm sticking to that.

6. Thermal Crew-Neck Tee - So comfy and perfect for a casual outfit or lounging and sleeping.
7. Patterned Cozy Crew Socks - I live for these fuzzy socks every year. I had to get the polar bear and pup!  
8. Printed Flannel Sleep Sets - I haven't had a matching set of PJs like these since probably elementary school. Probably the two things I was most excited about in my haul! So comfortable and worth every dollar.
9. Semi-fitted Thermal Tee - Polar bear in a Christmas sweater. Yep, had to make it mine. 

Have you bought anything from Old Navy recently? It was hard to narrow down my choices, believe me!

My Favorite Fall/Winter Trends for 2015-16

Fall is upon us and winter is close behind! This is absolutely my favorite time of year- holidays, the weather, the fashion. I'm not one for the heat, so I love when sweater weather comes around. Nothing in fashion makes me happier than layers. Layering for life!

Here are a few trends that I know I'll be enjoying all autumn and winter. I always go for the easy and doable ones, because I think daily fashion should be easy. I want pieces that I can wear time and time again in multiple ways and combinations. I'd rather have more time to enjoy my morning coffee than standing in my closet wondering what to wear. But then again, I take my coffee very seriously.

• Plaid - Kerri turned me on to this scarf and I just know I have to add it to my closet! (via Joe Fresh)
• Tie-neck shirts - I have two in my closet. So great for layering under sweaters and cardigans. (via Joe Fresh)
• Shearling - Little or big doses, this can be found on accessories and clothes. (via Joe Fresh)
• Flared Jeans - Flares have a special place in my heart. Plus, they are super comfortable. (Genesis via Alloy)
• Chunky Knits - Cozy is the goal. (via The Bay)
• Brown - A main color of the 70s, which is the decade du jour. (via The Bay)
• Creamy White - A warmer take on winter whites. (via The Bay)

What trends are you loving? I'll always be mad for plaid during cooler months, so give me all things plaid!

Blue Mountain Village: Vacation Pictures

It is technically spring, but you wouldn't know it at Blue Mountain while we were there. It snowed on our last day and it was gorgeous. It was just a week ago since our anniversary and I already wish I was back! The people there are beyond friendly and accommodating. It felt like home for the three days we were there and those are always the vacations that are the best.

As mentioned previously, I could only narrow my photos down so far. This place is too gorgeous to not want to share pictures of it. You can read about the food I enjoyed in my last post and see more pictures of the Village on my photography blog. In this post, I have a few more pictures and talk about where we stayed.

This is the view from our room! We got ground floor, which worked wonders since we had Indy with us and I could just walk him right outside. In the heart of winter, the pond is frozen over and is used for skating. It was milder when we arrived, so it was roped off. The Village was about a five minute walk by using that pathway.

I only picked up one souvenir- a Christmas ornament. If I am anywhere with a Christmas store, I'm walking in and I am coming out with an ornament. When they are readily available, I love grabbing ones on our trips that say or represent where we were. Sentimental ornaments for the win!

We stayed at the pet-friendly Westin Trillium House. We got a two bedroom suite. My MIL came with us to help watch Indy, so two rooms were essential and it helped all of us to be able to divide the cost. Our room is on the bottom left in this picture. See those lampposts? Each one had birdhouses on them representing places in the Village. Adorable! And there is a separate door for the dogs at the entrance, where the hotel even provided a big water bowl for them as they are coming and going.

Our room had a full kitchen, two bedrooms (one king, one queen), two bathrooms, and a family common room with a fireplace. We saved money by using the kitchen a fair bit. Our bathroom had both a tub and shower. Really wish the bathrooms had heated tiles, because they were super cold. The Westin Trillium also has a giant heated year-round pool and two hot tubs. We enjoyed both once at night and once during the day. We had it pretty much to ourselves during the night swim!

The mattresses were nice and I don't say this often about hotel or resort pillows, but they were great. Not too thick, not too thin. You know what I'm talking about...The perfect pillow ratio is hard to get! We split the family room up- my MIL got it one night and we got it one night. And our room had its own thermostat, which was probably my favorite part of the room. My MIL likes it to be what she calls warm and I call hot. So being able to change it to what we like in our bedroom was such an added bonus!

It was a great little trip that created some fond memories for us. We hope to go back and maybe experience it during a different season!

My Favorite F/W 2014-15 Trends

My favorite trends are the ones where you can shop your closet. I love the classic pieces that always come back into style. I am not shelling out $3,000 for a coat that looks like Big Bird just because it is the "in" thing. Nope, not happening! Here are my favorite trends coming up. I'd love to hear what trend you are looking forward to rockin' this upcoming season!

1. Fair Isle Sweater (via Net-a-Porter) - I love Fair Isle sweaters! The pattern always looks good.

2. Sneakers (via Net-a-Porter) - Yes, comfy shoes for the win!

3. Shearling (via River Island) - You can choose to go all out or have it on accessories.

4. 60s Mod (via Forever 21) - So flattering, especially in dresses!

5. Gold (via Tiffany & Co.) - Hardware on your accessories, gold sweater, whatever. It's a hot color right now.

6. Fun Caps or Shirts (via Nelly) - Novelty prints and sayings are still popping up. Keep those graphic shirts out!

7. Chunky Knits (via Piperlime) - Is there any better feeling on a cold day than cozying up in a knitted sweater or scarf?!

Fall/Winter 2012 Wishlist

So I have already covered my favorite F/W trends, but I thought I'd talk about what is on my personal fall and winter wishlist! This is what I am craving to get more of in my personal wardrobe.

Comfortable Flats: The ones pictured are the Tory Burch Chelsea ballet flats
Statement Necklaces: The one pictured is a Adia Kibur Short Stone necklace
Animal Sweaters: The one pictured is New Look
Chiffon Blouses: The one pictured is Old Navy
Colorful Cardigans: The one pictured is Old Navy
Corduroy Pants: The ones pictured are the Carson Stretch Cord Skinny

What does your wardrobe need this fall and winter?

Winter Trends Wednesday

Currently listening: Liar, Liar by A Fine Frenzy
Currently working: on my new Moleskine planner
Currently feeling: down and out

So I did this during the Fall season and now it is time for my other favorite season...WINTER! Here are my top trends for this Winter.

1. purple
2. sequins
3. extreme headbands & hats
4. shoes and boots that make a statement
5. lace
6. opaque tights with contrasting shoe colors
7. bows are still very in
8. pencil skirts
9. chunky knits
10. multiple strand necklaces

XOXO ♥