Worth the Wait >> Hello Honeymoon!

There have been an awful lot of travel themed posts around here lately, I know.  But after what I consider to be a long travel hiatus (at least in comparison to how frequently I traveled for my career and pleasure in the past), I've found myself in the midst of several trips over a short period of time.  I appreciate being at home these days more than I was ever able to before, but it feels good to be going on some adventures again. And this particular trip is one that I've been looking forward to more than any other.

A year ago this coming Monday, Robbie and I got married.  Although we kept things simple, we did plan to go on some sort of honeymoon.  We both love travel, and we'd never been on a vacation alone together (and until today, this still holds true), so it was important to us.  Doing it right after our wedding just wasn't possible for us, so we thought we'd try for December of last year.  That became February, which turned into May.  And then summer came and went, and our "honeymoon" was more likely going to happen as an anniversary trip, if at all.  The real question though - regardless of what we called it - was "is it worth the hassle?"  Those of you who are regular readers know that Robbie works as the Stage Manager of a band and is on the road almost half the year.  I also own two businesses, and although I have a serious rock star of an employee (hi Kari!), it's difficult to pick up and leave.  I'm sure most of you can relate to the challenges of planning a vacation when there's, like, real life and stuff (especially those of you who have kids!).  And of course, we all know how easy it is to convince ourselves that experiences centered on enjoying ourselves just aren't as important as bills and appointments and work and daily life.

About a month ago we decided that taking some time away together to celebrate "us" was just as important (in fact, more important) than all of these other things.  We were determined to find a way to make it happen.  It didn't matter how short or simple the trip was.  In fact, we both preferred to focus on something short and simple, where we didn't have to make a lot of crazy plans and could, instead, just "be."  With all of traveling we've both done through our lives, we decided it would be exciting to find a place where neither of us had ever been.  This was actually harder than it sounds, until I randomly heard one of my favorite Bob Dylan songs, a rare recording called "Santa-Fe," for the first time in years.  We'd both been to New Mexico, but it had been a long time, and neither of us had ever spent time in Santa Fe, but had both always wanted to go.  So the decision was made.  Flights were booked.  And I just know our little honeymoon will be worth the wait.

It's Thursday evening as I write this post, and I'll be scheduling it to go live a few hours after we leave for the airport early Friday morning.  So as you read this, we're either in the air or already on the ground in beautiful, magical New Mexico.  We're going to explore, drive, hike, soak in hot springs, look at art, eat good food, take pictures, sleep in, and just hang out.  Together.  I honestly don't think I've ever been this excited about a trip.

I fully intend on spending as little time online as possible, but I'm sure I'll be sharing some of our adventures along the way on Instagram (user name bubbyandbean) and Twitter.  There will also be a couple of amazing guest bloggers helping out while I'm gone, and I'll be checking in here once (on our anniversary) too.  I hope that you have a wonderful Friday and weekend.  Make sure you find some time to just have fun.

Santa Fe images via Tripadvisor and AOLTravel.

Pure + Free // Blissoma Skincare Package GIVEAWAY (Worth $90!)

A little over a year ago, I was introduced to a natural, handmade skincare label called Blissoma.  I'd been in search of a line of face care products that wasn't loaded with chemicals for years, but the majority of organic and natural products I'd used didn't seem to work very well for me.  After trying Blissoma for a couple of week, I was overjoyed with the results (you can read my original review here), and have been a fan and regular user ever since.  So I was pretty excited when Julie, the creative chemist behind Blissoma's skincare goodness and September's featured sponsor, asked if she could send me two of their brand new products to try out: Pure Sensitive Skin Soothing Complex, and Free Herbal Gel Cleanser.  And I was even more excited when Julie told me that she was also going to offer Bubby and Bean readers a chance to win a set of these amazing products plus a $40 gift certificate: a $90 value!  Read on for my experience and how you can win...

My skin changes on a regular basis (one week it's dry, the next it's normal, the next it's laden with zits), and lately it's been unusually sensitive.  So the opportunity to test out gently-formulated products like these couldn't have come at a better time.  Over the last few weeks, my regimen has been very simple.  I start off by cleansing with the Free Herbal Gel Cleanser, and follow that by patting a few pumps of Pure Sensitive Skin Soothing Complex under my eyes, then smoothing it on my face and décolletage.  Once a week or so, I also use the Refine Clay Renewal Treatment (aka my favorite skincare product of all time).

So far, I've been quite impressed with the Free Gel Cleanser and how well it removes dirt and oil without stripping my skin.  I tend to be one of those pore-obsessed people who can easily (and foolishly) convince myself that only heavy duty cleansers that leave my face flaky and aching for moisture are actually getting it clean, so to see a gentle product work so well is pretty amazing.  It even washes away my waterproof mascara in an instant, with no irritation.  And the name "Free" couldn't possibly suit this cleanser better - it contains no alcohol, no harsh chemical or acids, not even any essential oils.  Love that.  Certified organic, food grade Quillaja extract provides a subtle lather and gives a "soapy" quality without the alkaline PH that usually accompanies most soaps.  This makes it ideal for around the eyes for makeup removal - it's super mild and the same PH range as skin.  Other ingredients include red clover, heather flowers, alfalfa, and yerba mate. Yerba Mate gives it a nice punch of antioxidants and energizing qualities (and actually contains more active compounds than Green Tea!)

The Pure daily soothing complex has been equally as impressive, especially in its ability to smooth my skin and equally heal both my blemishes and my dry patches. It's light without being too watery, and allows my face to look and feel calmed and balanced.  Like the Free cleanser, it's also seriously gentle - unscented and free from all chemicals and allergens (including gluten, alcohol, nuts, petrochemicals, parabens, phenoxyethanol, and even common botanical allergens).  As I get older, I notice myself becoming more sensitive to beauty products (and in general - my allergies are ridiculous), and this is one of the only moisturizers I've used in the past couple of years that hasn't aggravated my skin at all.  I've also started to notice more wrinkles around my eyes recently (noooooo!), and my allergies tend to reveal themselves as gloriously attractive under-eye bags.  So I was really pleased to discover that I could use Pure around my eyes.  It leaves them looking bright and well-moisturized without a heavy, oily feel.  It's also full of all sorts of healing goodness, like Marshmallow for soothing mucilage, Plantain leaf for anti-redness, Heather Flowers which provide the anti-allergenic flavonoid Quercetin (yay for new collagen!), Butcher's Broom for a host of minerals, Rutin to strengthen capillaries and areduce inflammation, and Baobab and Pumpkin seed oils, which provide Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids along with vitamins A, C, D, E and Zinc.

All in all, I have to say that I'm quite impressed with the way my skin looks and feels after using Pure and Free.  It also feels really good to know that I'm using eco-conscious, healthy products.  I can't wait to continue this regimen in the coming weeks!

And now for the best part...  You have the chance to try out these incredible products for yourself, for free!  Julie has also generously offered a $40 gift certificate in addition to the skincare set, so that you can refill your set after it's out or try some of her other stellar products.

This giveaway is open to all Bubby and Bean followers/subscribers.  (If you're a new reader, just make sure to subscribe first using GFC or one of these readers). Then just leave a comment with your favorite item in Blissoma's shop!

Once you've completed the mandatory entry above, you can also gain one additional entry for each of the following.  (*Please put each extra entry in a SEPARATE comment in order for it to count).

• Like Blissoma on Facebook 
• Follow Blissoma on Twitter (please list your username) 
• Follow Blissoma's blog, From the Bathtub 
• Tweet this:  Win a Natural Skincare Package in Bubby & Bean's latest GIVEAWAY!  >> http://bit.ly/c6j9XX via @MotM_EcoFashion & @blissomagirl 
• Sign up for the Blissoma Newsletter 

This giveaway is open through October 3rd. The winner's name will be randomly chosen and announced shortly after.  Thank you again to our featured sponsor Blissoma by Irie Star for giving Bubby and Bean's readers the chance to win this amazing skincare set and gift certificate!

(Botanical images via Wikipedia.)

burgundy bliss

1. Photo Editor Flat, Modcloth  //  2. Culver City Crossbody Bag, Free People
3. Anchor Bracelet, Bonobos  //  4. Cloche Hat, Stella McCartney 
5. Carry On Nail Color, Essie  // 6. Round Frame Sunglasses, Stella McCartney

It kind of arose out of nowhere, all elusive and standing at the back of the line for many years.  But burgundy is having a major moment right now.  It's the breakout color of the season.  This rich, dark tone is even being called 'the new black.'   People love it or hate it, and I admittedly never gave it a much thought until recently.  Now, I can't get enough. 

Are you a burgundy fan, or could you do without it?

Guess who WON the Marshalls Fall Fashion Giveaway??!

Thank you to everyone who entered our Marshalls Fall Fashion Giveaway!  It was fun reading through your entries and hearing about your favorite fall fashion trends and designer scores from Marshalls.  The winner was chosen via random.org, and that lucky Bubby and Bean reader is...

CONGRATULATIONS OWLBLVD!  You're going to get to go on a $100 shopping spree at your local Marshalls store! (Please contact me at bubbyandbean {at} gmail.com with your mailing address so I can mail you your gift card.)


Huge thanks to Marshalls for teaming up with Bubby and Bean and donating such an amazing prize!  If you haven't yet, don't forget to enter our big September Giveaway, going on right here.

5 Travel Packing Essentials (+ How to Fit Them All in Your Carry-On)

Less than two weeks ago, I took a quick trip to Colorado.  This week, I'm counting down to Robbie's and my very belated honeymoon (so belated, in fact, that it is now technically a one-year anniversary trip!) to Santa Fe on Friday.  And in a couple of weeks, I leave again for Austin.  I used to travel very consistently for both my work and Robbie's (and for fun sometimes too), but over the last year or so, I've spent the majority of time close to home.  With this recent influx of nonstop travel plans after taking a hiatus for so long, I realized that I'd become pretty out of practice when it comes to packing like a pro.

For shorter trips like my current travels, it usually ends up being a major hassle to bring more than a carry-on.  My trip to Colorado was so quick with such a packed schedule that it would have been almost ridiculous to bring a checked bag. I also wanted to start fresh and break my habit of shoving every possible outfit into several bags, only to end up wearing one or two of them (and thus lugging the extra cargo around for absolutely no reason).  So I decided to think back over my past travels and compile a list of essentials - all of which will allow me to skip the checked bag, but still feel prepared upon arrival.  Even if you're bringing checked bags on your next adventure, having a carry-on with essentials can make your entire trip run more smoothly.  (Especially if you're like me and seem to be a target for lost luggage.)

1. A good carry-on bag.  First and foremost, you need a great bag to hold your gear. Recently, Scout by Bungalow sent me this absolutely amazing piece of luggage (cleverly named the 'Hilary Duffle.')  I cannot say enough good things about this bag you guys.  My favorite part, aside from the absolutely adorable print, is that fact that it's water resistant.  My old carry-on has been progressively stained with dirt and travel funk, and my attempts to clean it have been unsuccessful.  I was able to wipe this bag clean in seconds after my last trip.  I also love the coated cotton fabric, which reminds me of vintage Pan Am bags. Having lots of room is also when it comes to a good carry-on, and you can fit a whole lot inside of this one without it looking (or feeling) bulky.  With two outside zipper pockets and an additional zipper pocket inside the main compartment, it allows for easy organization.  It also comes with a detachable shoulder strap (which certainly simplified things when I had to run full-speed through the airport to catch to my already-boarded flight to Colorado).  If you don't have one already, go get yourself a functional, high quality carry-on bag like those designed by Scout for your next trip, and you'll be one step closer to a smooth tavel experience.

2. One to two changes of clothing for each day.  I realize that this sounds vague, but the amount of clothing you bring depends on several factors (the length of your trip, weather, type of trip you're taking, etc.).  My general rule of thumb is to bring an outfit for everyday of my trip, and then, depending on space left at the end, one additional outfit for everyday or every other day.  If I'm going on a three-day journey, I'll usually bring four or five changes of clothes.  That way I'm covered for weather changes, accidents (I know I'm not the only one who spills at the most inappropriate of times), and different events.  Bring a variety of types of garments, and don't forget underwear, socks, and a couple of pairs of shoes.

3. Entertainment. I always have my iPad or laptop, a book, and a magazine or two packed in my carry-on, regardless of whether or not I check a bag.  This not only helps make the plane ride more enjoyable, it also comes in handy during down times on a trip when I want to relax and read.  (Don't forget your chargers for electronics and earphones for music and movies.)

4. A small toiletries case.  Packing toiletries can be a little tricky when you're only dealing with a carry-on due to airport regulations.  I leave my full-sized toiletries bag at home and stick with a small case like the ones above (A la Heart Makeup Bag and Pretty City Travel Case).  Then I fill reusable travel bottles (you can find them at almost any drug store) with shampoo, conditioner, facial cleanser, and moisturizer, and pack them in my case along with a travel-sized toothpaste, toothbrush, and hair brush.  If there's room, you can also include your makeup, but I usually carry mine in whichever purse or handbag I bring with me.

5. A mini sleep kit.  I'm an insomniac even when I'm sleeping at home, so it's pretty much a given that I'll have trouble falling asleep when I'm traveling.  I actually like to assemble a little 'sleep kit' containing heavy duty ear plugs (I like Mack's), a sleep mask, and a couple of other items to encourage good rest like a container of temple rub balm and couple bags of chamomile tea. If I sleep well, I'm much more likely to enjoy my trip, so this one is important.


I hope that this quick list of essentials proves helpful the next time you get ready to pack your carry-on for a quick trip!  I'd also love to hear about any items you include when packing light.  

Here are three quick tips I use when attempting to save room in my bag.  If my destination is going to include cold weather, I'll wear my coat and boots on the airplane (a coat or jacket can also act as a great blanket for the flight!).  If I want to bring my camera, I leave my camera bag at home and instead use the removable foam inserts from the inside of it to protect my camera and lenses.  And I usually roll my garments instead of folding them, which saves room and prevents wrinkling.  Happy travels!

(Hilary Duffle Bag c/o Scout by Bungalow)

SEPTEMBER GIVEAWAY // Win A Prize Package Worth $125!

What better way to start off a Monday than with a giveaway?  This month's group giveaway features five incredible prizes, all from handmade + independent shops and blogs: jewelry, art, accessories, and advertising spaces (a great way to get the word out about your shop or blog for the holidays, or to gift to friends who own small businesses or blogs!).  Bubby and Bean Art is even getting in on the action this time.  And one lucky Bubby and Bean reader will win the whole package, valued at $125!

VISIT THIS SHOP   ///   VISIT THIS BLOG

VISIT THIS BLOG   ///   VISIT THIS SHOP

VISIT THIS BLOG   ///   VISIT THIS SHOP

VISIT THIS BLOG   ///   VISIT THIS SHOP

VISIT THIS SHOP

This giveaway is open to all Bubby and Bean followers/subscribers.  If you're a new reader, just make sure to subscribe first using GFC or one of these readers.  Then just leave a comment with your favorite fall color.  That's it!

Once you've completed the mandatory entry above, you can also gain one additional entry for each of the following.  (*Please put each extra entry in a SEPARATE comment in order for it to count).

• Visit any of the shops from this giveaway (Oh, Nostalgia!  // Roots and Feathers // GrrFeisty // Little Tree Vintage // Bubby and Bean Art) and list your favorite item(s).
• Favorite any of the shops from this giveaway on Etsy (Little Tree Vintage // Bubby and Bean Art // Roots and Feathers // Oh, Nostalgia! // GrrFeisty).
• Follow/subscribe to any of the blogs from this giveaway (Little Tree // GrrFeisty //  Roots and Feathers  // Little Nostalgia).
• Follow Bubby & Bean on Bloglovin'.
• Follow us on Pinterest.
• Like Bubby & Bean on Facebook.
• Follow us on Twitter (please list your username)
• Tweet this: Enter Bubby & Bean's September GIVEAWAY for a chance to win $125 worth of goodies! >> http://bit.ly/Qu5zmu via @MotM_EcoFashion







• Follow us on Instagram (user name: bubbyandbean)

This giveaway is open through September 30th.  The winner's name will be chosen randomly and announced soon after.  GOOD LUCK!

Look, I Made A Photo Book!

Since making the switch from Blackberry to iPhone about a year ago, I've developed a bit of an obsession with Instagram and just taking photos with my phone in general.  I try to use my regular camera as much as possible, but when it comes to documenting everyday life, it's my trusty phone that usually wins out.  As summer comes to an end (today is officially the last day!), I'm grateful that I took so many pictures of my favorite season.  From our little garden to babies being born to birthday parties to shows to trips, I did my best to capture it all via quick phone snapshots.  Recently I came upon some old photo albums and realized that it's literally been years (like many years) since I made an actual album.  Looking through images online is fun, but there's something to be said for an authentic photo book that you can hold in your hands. 

I decided to do some investigating for a way to make and order an album that would allow me to put together a story of our summer through all the pictures I had on my phone.  I discovered that Blurb had an option to create one by taking photos directly from Instagram. Score!  In less than ten minutes, I'd assembled a beautiful (and affordable) hardcover book right on their website.  It arrived the following week, and I absolutely love it.  They have a bunch of different options to choose from, and I ended up picking a hardcover book with dust jacket.  The quality is incredible, and I even teared up a little when looking through it (it's okay; you can roll your eyes). I'm going to give it to Robbie as a gift when he gets home from tour on Sunday.  It will be an amazing way to remember our summer for many years, and I can't wait to make more books for fall, winter, and spring. 

If you're thinking of creating a photo book, I can't recommend Blurb highly enough.  If you want to create your own Instagram Photo Book, all you have to do is log in on Blurb's website and choose which photos you'd like to include from your Insta account.  You don't have to have Instagram to create an album though - you can also use photos from Facebook or upload them directly from your phone/camera/computer. They have a ton of choices in terms of size, cover, number of pages, and type of paper, so you're able to fully customize your book to exactly what you want.  They also have a special discount going on for 15% off all photo books!  Just use code 15OFFBOOK in the coupon box when you check out.

Have you put together any photo books or albums recently, or do you mainly view your photos online?