2016 Favorites: March & April

First off, I cannot believe I haven't posted on here since March. I have been busy, but more than that, I have been neglectful and lazy. And now it's time for another bi-monthly favorites. How embarrassing to have two back to back! Anyway, I have been keeping a running list of my favorite things from the past few months.

Beauty Favorite

JAS Naturals - Make Up Puff Beauty Blender - Latex Free Premium Beauty Sponge - The Most Flawless Makeup Sponges For Powder, Cream or Liquid Application Set of 2

I had been wanting to try out the Beauty Blender for quite some time, but when JAS Naturals offered to send me one of their makeup blenders, I decided to try it out. I didn't have really high hopes since it was a dupe. I was pleasantly surprised with how absolutely wonderful this makeup blender really is. I loved the way it buffed foundation into my skin, making it look as though I was not wearing any foundation at all. It's so gentle because you wet the sponge and ring out the excess water. I love how it does not tug at my skin and provides a great application. Streaks are a huge pet peeve of mine, which is why I usually stay away from foundation brushes. This is an absolute must have!

Home Favorite

Samdi Wooden Cell Phone Stand or Cell Phone Holder (walnut color)

I know, a cell phone holder or stand is not a revolutionary invention, but it's handy as f*ck. I use this little guy every day. I love the walnut finish, and that it's bentwood. It just looks mid-century modern. I have another larger version for my nook. For the past couple of years, I have had very large phones (I currently have the iPhone 6 plus) and this stand is not too small. I imagine it would work well for smaller phones, too. I use this when I am in my kitchen cooking dinner or washing dishes and want to watch a video. It's great for FaceTime or video chatting, too. When I take a bath, I'll prop my cell phone in this. Sometimes I'm multitasking with multiple screens and having my phone in the holder is handy. Also, if you take conference calls on your cell phone, this acts as a nice secure place. For $7, you can't really go wrong.

Music Favorite

El Vy: Return To The Moon

This album came out in October 2015, but I didn't hear about it until late December when they were featured on NPR's Tiny Desk Series. El Vy features a member from The National, which is one of my favorite bands, and one from Ramona Falls. The sound is related to The National, but more poppy and upbeat, with some similar low-key interludes. Matt Berninger has one of the sexiest voices I have ever heard. It's low, gritty, effortless, and just so damn gorgeous. He's also super nice. I met him at the 2014 Riot Fest in Toronto when I was backstage. I also got to see El Vy in Niagara Falls, NY on May 1st and they played a great set--all of their songs and a really funny cover of Technotronic's "Pump up the Jam." They were chatty and put on a great show.

Television Favorite

Rupaul's Drag Race, Season 7

I know this link says season 7, but I effectively binged on seasons 2-8 of RuPaul's Drag Race during the months of March and April. I would have watched season 1 but I could not find it anywhere on the interwebs. I watched seasons 2-3 and 8 on Amazon, and seasons 4-7 and All Stars on Hulu. Let me tell you, this show is amazing. I knew very little about the drag world before watching this show. I had seen Paris is Burning in a Critical Theory class in college, but did not really connect with it or remember much of it. Now, over ten years later, I am amazed by the pure artistry of drag. Not only that, but the stories of what these queens overcame is really beautiful. Tonight is the season 8 finale and I cannot wait to see who will join some of my favorites in the winner's circle!

Fashion Favorite

Nike Women's Free 5.0 Black/White/Anthracite Running Shoe

I have been LIVING in these shoes, ever since I purchased them in January. I have small feet so I was able to get away with the children's version and saved myself some money. Even at the adult price, these are worth it. They are lightweight, comfortable, and perfect for running. I have also been wearing them when I know I am going to be on my feet for a long period of time. For my birthday I traveled up to Toronto and walked for miles exploring the city. I am so happy that I wore these shoes. They're also so sleek and minimalist. I think they're the perfect chic city girl sneaker. Shout out to my girl Kayta for introducing me to them; she has the best style.