Intro to the Apple Watch

I have a penchant for the latest technology so I was ecstatic when the Apple Watch was announced last year.  Although I did wait several months after the release to adopt the product, I was instantly impressed by the potential capabilities.  Like any technology acquisition, I wanted to know as much as I possibly could about the product.  For quite some time, I had planned to get back into a regular workout routine and I knew the Apple Watch was designed to do just that plus more.  The fitness component was by far the biggest driver for my purchase. 

The original operating system, watchOS 1.0, did not offer but the basics such as shorthand responses to text messages only, thumbs up for Facebook Messenger notifications, and basic watch faces.  When watchOS 2.0 was released, there were more features such as shorthand responses to email, Photostream watch faces, and enhanced support for more watch compatible app complications.  There were several new tech terms to learn with the Apple Watch release.  Without knowing one would assume complications means a glitch however in Apple’s world it means controlling app features right on the watch face. 

Another new term is glances, which are quick views for various watch features and apps.  My personal favorite is Shazam Encore.  If you love music this app is a must have.  It’s worth the $6.99 to continuously add new favorites to your music collection.  The convenience of the Shazam Apple Watch feature is being able to dine out, hear a song, slide up from the bottom of the watch face then over to the app, tap and instantly tag the song to later download.  I have found this invaluable at the gym since I am always looking for good workout songs.

My device has sparked many conversations including what do I love the most about it.  One of the best features is being able to operate somewhat remotely without carrying around my phone from room to room, leaving it in my purse, and plugging into my car stereo all while still being able to answer calls, text, and email either by shorthand or dictation.  When traveling, the watch does a great job of making you appear as a local while discretely using Apple Maps since it will tap your wrist rapidly for a right turn and intermittently for a left turn.  I love that I can set one particular mailbox for notifications for priority emails and either respond or flag for later in depth responses.

There are a plethora of accessories that can be purchased for the Apple Watch including bands, face covers, bumper guards, charging stations, and charging bands.  I picked the basic Apple Watch Sport and proceeded to find accessories on Amazon including a Spigen bumper guard and link bracelet band.  The watch comes in a variety of styles from the basic Apple Watch Sport at $349 to the Apple Watch at $549 to the Apple Watch Edition at $10,000.  There is an increase in price for each level depending on what type of watch casing, size, and band is chosen.  Bands can be purchased separately to upgrade each type of watch.  Size options are the smaller 38mm and larger 42mm screens.  I personally selected the 38mm and can see the screen perfectly.

Several people I know have the Fitbit in one variation or another and others have brands by Samsung and Garmin.  I am partial to the Apple Watch, which does require one to have an iPhone. Later in the blog, I will review great apps and accessories for the Apple Watch. Overall it is functional for fitness, communication, and makes a great conversation piece. 

Cheers!

#apple #applewatch #fashion #watch #accessories @appleincglobal @spigenworld

Drybar Your Way to Dream Hair

I was lucky enough to be born with curly hair which is both a curse and a blessing at the same time. In testing many products throughout the years I have found that Drybar Velvet Hammer Hydrating Control Cream as one of the best products for taming frizz, smoothing hair cuticles for straitening or hot iron curling, and making my hair look and feel healthy. 

Many products weigh hair down but a half dime size for short hair or dime size for long hair is all you need. The bottle is 6 ounces which will last a long time and the fragrance is mild yet sweet. I purchased mine from Sephora however it can also be purchased direct from Drybar or another personal favorite shopping spot Nordstrom.

This product should be used on freshly washed hair. Different people have various ways of applying products but I like to create a hair product cocktail. It really depends on your type of hair since each person is an individual with different needs. My favorites at the moment in addition to Drybar Velvet Hammer include Kenra Blow Dry Spray, Living Proof Full Thickening Cream, and Matrix Amplify Volume Foam Volumizer mousse. I place each product in my hand, blend together, then work through wet hair and roots. Used in small portions around a dime size or less depending on hair length, none of these products will weigh down roots so it works well to blend throughout. 

I'll be writing about each item separately within the blog so you can find more details about each brand and product.  It smells wonderful and leaves hair feeling soft and bouncy all day long.  I've never received so many compliments on my hair since I've been using this product.

Cheers and happy hair days!

@sephora @thedrybar @nordstrom #conditioningcream #beauty #hair #drybar #sephora #hydratingcontrolcream #drybarvelvethammer #leaveinconditioner #gorgeoushair

The Wonderful World of Maui

My sister and I decided to take a trip in November to Maui to escape the cold.  With much research and deliberation we chose to stay in Wailea on the western side of the island.  The scenery is absolutely gorgeous.  Upon arrival and after a long flight, we rented a car then searched and found a great lunch place called Eskimo Candy.  The poke and teriyaki chicken were absolutely delish.  Since it was quite warm, we chose to eat inside.  It was a cozy atmosphere.  Shortly after such a great meal, we traveled to Maui Brewing Company http://mauibrewingco.com/ that would immediately turn into our regular vacation hangout.  They have unique handcrafted beers and it is a great place for social gatherings with food trucks outside and games that can be played while chilling with friends.  We settled into what became our usual spot in the sun and proceeded to plan our vacation activities. 

First on the list was ziplining, which neither of us had ventured to try before.  We chose the Piiholo Ranch Zipline based on a recommendation by the hotel concierge.  The instructors were very knowledgeable and safety conscious.  Most zipline adventures have buckles and straps that can be very uncomfortable.  Piiholo has designed their zip gear to include a “seat” which allows the individual to “sit down” while zipping making it a far cozier ride along the treetops.  If you have a fear of heights, it is quickly quashed by the astonishing views via the best seat in the house.  They also treated us to drinks and snacks mid-tour.  We were fortunate to have a great group to zip with as well.  Pictures can be purchased and Go-Pros rented however we were just out to enjoy the experience.  Expected of any island, it started to rain that afternoon and was much heavier on the last zip.  I highly recommend a light rain jacket and sunglasses.  The sunglasses seem counterintuitive however when you’re going at a high speed down the line with rain in your face you’ll understand why they are important.  More information can be found https://piiholozipline.com.

That evening we had dinner at Monkeypod.  They have the traditional Hawaiian dishes like poke and pulled pork.  It is a very popular place so be sure to make a reservation which can be done by phone or online at http://www.monkeypodkitchen.com.  When we arrived after a fun filled day ziplining, Monkeypod was packed.  Since we had no reservations and outside seating was closed due to the evening rain moving in, we decided to scope the bar area for seats and had a minimal wait.  The atmosphere, food, and service was fantastic!

A light misting rain moved into Wailea the next day so we sought refuge in sunny Lahaina.  The beach had gorgeous views and was very peaceful.  It was much deserved relaxation.  We enjoyed working on our tan then headed off to Local Food for a late lunch.  My sister enjoyed the Spam Sushi dish and I had a craving for the pulled pork.  Later that evening we headed upward to the 10,000 foot mountain located within Haleakalā National Park http://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm to watch the sunset.  The views were absolutely breathtaking.  Also, remember to fuel up the car since it is a long way up and a long way down on a very winding road.  The top of the mountain can reach much cooler temperatures than beach level so warm gear is essential.

On the last full day of the vacation, we took kayak and snorkeling lessons.  The water was gorgeous and it was my first time trying out both adventures.  My sister had kayaked before so I let her take the lead.  We were suited in lifejackets for safety with flippers to move across the water and masks while snorkeling.  The views were absolutely gorgeous.  It was unreal to be that close to sea urchins, Hawaii’s state fish the reef trigger fish that had blue lips, moray eels, and sea turtles.  The turtles were truly fascinating creatures.  We learned they live to be 150 years old!

Later that day, we soaked up the sun on Maui’s Big Beach, which had incredible views and a peaceful landscape.  The water was so clear and the sand super soft.  More info can be found here http://www.mauiinformationguide.com/makena.php. It was a great way to end the vacation watching the sunset.  

Mahalo!

#travel #maui #piiholoranchzipline #piiholozipline #gohawaii #monkeypod #eskimocandy #localfood

Kat Von D Lock-It Powder Foundation

I have been using Kat Von D’s Lock-It Powder Foundation for several years.  It is hands down the best combined foundation and powder product on the market in my opinion.  My skin is very sensitive and fluctuates between oily and combination.  The product comes in a variety of shades and I am impressed by the quality.  It does not oxidize on my skin however every person is different.  The case has a mirror inside for on the go applications.  Both Sephora and Kat Von D Beauty sell this product.

My routine usually starts with an oil free moisturizer, concealer placed under each eye and on blemishes as they arise, and the final cover is the Lock-It Powder Foundation.  I use the applicator that comes with the product, which is a silicone-based puff that glides over my skin for a flawless finish. 

I am a big fan of MAC, Sigma, and Real Techniques brushes which I use for blush and bronzer.  The Real Techniques Expert Face Brush or Buffing Brush can be used to apply the powder foundation as well.

The mornings can be very hectic and this product provides a shortcut to the routine by eliminating what traditionally is a two-step process with foundation and powder.  A basic morning look should take no longer than three minutes and this product helps to accomplish that goal.  That leaves more time for coffee or putting a few more finishing touches on making eyes pop or creating a few extra curls in my hair.

Cheers!

#katvond #beauty #makeup #sephora #lockitpowderfoundation #powderfoundation #pressedpowder @sephora @katvondbeauty

For the Love of Wellies

I first discovered Hunter wellies about ten years ago.  They are by far a quality rubber rain boot. Clearly Hunter's craftmanship is top notch since my boots have endured snow and the salt used to melt it, rain, and muddy fields.  They have a natural blooming process in which the high quality rubber will turn white over time, however, my wellies have not cracked under the years of pressure. Hunter wellies are very versatile.  They can be worn out into the woods while camping, into swamps to keep your feet dry and even cleaned up for an out to dinner look.

Hunters are timeless and come in a variety of colors in two finishes.  Wellies are sold in a gloss, which I think is a dressier version, as well as matte colors.  Traditional boots come in tall and short. Better yet, the brand releases special edition boots throughout the year including textured varieties. Hunter has expanded beyond the traditional boot - the company now offers slip on shoes, liners for their boots, and apparel.

I'm a huge fan of items the Duchess of Cambridge wears including her Le Chameau Ladies Vierzonord Wellington Boots but ultimately prefer Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots for their affordability and range of options available to mix and match with outfits.

Don't be afraid to get your wellies dirty.  The boots are very easy to clean when paired with soft cloth and the special cleaner called Hunter Boot Buffer.  I prefer to wear kitchen cleaning gloves while polishing my wellies.

Check out this helpful video when cleaning your wellies.

Cheers and happy swamping!


#HunterBoots #Wellies #fashion #shoes #boots #rainboots #LeChameau #bootbuffer @hunterboots