June ends tomorrow, and I’m not too sorry to see it go. It was a long month! I worked more, my anxiety and depression flared up, and it’s miserably hot. I also survived my glucose test, potty trained Edison, and celebrated eight years of marriage – so it wasn’t all bad. And I still found some favorite things this month, a few of which are a bit surprising to me!
1. ColorStreet Nails
I don’t think I’ve ever included a multi-level marketing product (MLM) in my favorites before. MLM products are those that follow the “Avon-model,” or the model that uses individual sellers to generally annoy the crap out of their Facebook friends. Ahem, I mean … sell to their friends. Some MLM’s are more annoying than others – this one I’ve found I actually enjoy the product!
My neighbor started selling ColorStreet Nails, which are printed strips of nail polish. It’s not a plastic wrap, like Jamberry (another MLM) so it comes right off with regular nail polish remover. But somehow, the strips hold up and last forever! I tried a couple samples before actually buying some.
Here’s how my sample held up on my pinky, ring finger, and middle finger after three weeks, compared to regular nail polish on my other two fingers – which I’d repainted two weeks ago.
Also, my nails are growing really fast – thanks prenatal vitamins! Here’s another close up of the rose gold set I just put on. These are called “At the Plaza,” and they’re $11 for a package, which includes two sets. I didn’t even need all of one set to do both hands – so that’s $11 for maybe two or three times I’ll get to wear them.
Of course, I’ll share with you the link from my neighbor if you’d like to try a free sample yourself, or order them here.
2. Essential Oils
I can’t believe I’m saying this … but I got some essential oils. Here’s the deal – I needed something to help me sleep, and drugging up on Tylenol PM and Benadryl was a last resort. So I bought myself some cheap oils on Amazon – and yes, I know, I know, all the “oily” purists out there are gasping in horror. But I really just wanted to try it without spending $30-$50 per bottle. The set I bought included six for $16.99.
I started diffusing it by my bed at night, and the first night, I fell asleep quickly and slept through the entire night – for the first time in weeks! The same thing happened the next night. And the next. It doesn’t work every night – some nights my brain just won’t shut off. But I do like the smell, especially the lavender and rose geranium. And I think the mist has helped my sinuses at night, so, double bonus!
3. Airbnb
While it’s not a new find for me, I was recently reminded of how much I enjoy Airbnb after celebrating our eighth anniversary this month. We used Airbnb last year also in San Diego, and this year in Flagstaff. We’ve always had a great experience and saved a LOT of money! Plus, Airbnb hosts are usually more than happy to recommend restaurants and attractions in the area. On our anniversary, the restaurant and hike that were recommended to us were highlights of the trip. And the bed was insanely comfortable!
If you’re ever in Arizona, visiting the Grand Canyon – here’s a link to where we stayed. Anna also has a larger place available that can fit four people.
4. The Greatest Showman
When it came out on DVD, we bought it, and we’ve watched it at least twice. We also bought the soundtrack, and have listened to that too many times to count. Edison even asks to listen to “Greatest Showman” sometimes instead of only Mary Poppins!
The music, the dancing, the message – it’s all great. If you’re looking for a feel-good movie and somehow haven’t watched it yet, you should!
What finds have made your summer better so far? Please share them with us all in the comments!
