5 BEAUTY TIPS TO REMEMBER THIS FALL

We are a couple weeks shy of fall beginning. However, if you look around, the market has already begun transitioning to the new season. We see fall decor in the stores, clothing racks look fuller with the jackets and sweaters, and Halloween candy is out. Along with that, you’ll see the transition in beauty routine products hitting the shelves. As a beauty junkie myself, I look forward to it as well.But there are some beauty tips to keep in mind as you begin to consume and transition to the heavier creams.

photo of women doing their skincare
  1. Everyone gets, has, or will get wrinkles and fine lines. They are normal. We are supposed to age. Yes, you can support and assist aging with creams and serums. But let your wrinkles and fine lines show through. It shows you have some wisdom to offer.
  2. Texture is normal. No one has glass skin. There isn’t a such thing as perfect skin or flawless skin. I don’t care what your age is. There isn’t a product that can get rid of texture. Can a product minimize and help, absolutely. Remember there are filters out there.
  3. Your skin routine doesn’t have to be 10 steps. That’s time and money spent on too many products. Use what works for you. As long as you get results, then it’s perfect for you. Some can get away with a cleanser and moisturizer. Other’s may need to add a target treatment. Either way, it doesn’t take 10 steps. Me personally, I question if those many products are really penetrating the skin and being effective. But who am I.
  4. Expensive doesn’t mean it’s better. That cream that’s $500 better create magic on your skin. You can get a cream for $20 and under that probably would give you better results. Most of the time you are paying for the name and packaging. Don’t go into debt buying expensive products thinking they are going to produce faster and better results.
  5. Keep it simple. Don’t over complicate your routine. Look and feel your skin, see what it needs and go from there. Too many products with active ingredients isn’t good. Gear your routine to fit your lifestyle and budget.

Those are a couple beauty tips to remember as we head into the fall season. 5 NON BEAUTY RELATED SKIN CARE TIPS We are going to be bombarded with new products enticing us. Don’t let the pretty packaging fool you. The over promised expensive product with the celebrity on it, don’t fall for it. When looking to switching your routine, take into account genetics. Yes, our genes play a huge role. Your diet, lifestyle, sleep habits, climate, and stress all play a part in your body. Remember to keep it simple, drink water, eat colorful, sleep, and journal your thoughts to detox your body and skin.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

WHAT THEY MEAN WHEN THEY SAY “YOU NEVER KNOW”

It’s almost become a cliche when you hear “ you never know what people are going through “. We hear it so often, but how often do we think about it, exercise it, and give others grace. Although it’s probably an over used point, it still rings true. People only tell us what they want us to know. We only see what people want us to see especially on social media. Just think about your favorite celebrity, athlete, or influencer that have such a great presence but suffers from depression.

white printer paper with be kind text on plants

You never know what people are going through so be kind. That rung true and reminded me on my morning commute to work.

As I’m driving, I had to do a double take in my rear view mirror. A woman who also appears to be driving to work. She had on a nice ivory blouse. Beautiful jewelry and her long thick hair was bouncy with big curls. Yes, I saw all of this because I have great attention to detail and it was a beautiful sunny morning. Anyway, on my double take, I notice she’s wiping her eyes. Hmmmm. This wasn’t a typical I have allergies wipe or anything.

So I doubled back. This woman was sobbing. When I say sobbing, she’s doing the ugly cry. The light turns red. And I’m siting there contemplating getting her attention for her to pull over. Number one, we don’t want an accident. And number two, baby you need to let that cry out. But she took advantage of this red light because she sobbed, wiped her face, and fixed her banes. That’s my girl!!! So I opted not to get her attention. My heart just ached for her. Light turns green, she wipes her eyes, and hit a left turn while I keep straight.

I get to work and immediately thought you really never know what people are going through. My mind began thinking about her mental and emotional wellness throughout the day. She’s full of emotions, they’re all over the place and when she hits work, immediately shut them off. Hence her constantly fixing her banes and making sure she didn’t mess up all her makeup. Then pretending like everything is ok, try to be productive, and professional.

You know you’ll always have the coworker’s to ask are you ok. If you say yes, they may pressure because they can clearly see your face is flushed, swollen, and your demeanor isn’t the norm they are used to. On the other hand, you may have a coworker that think you’re having an attitude, not being polite, or great to work around that day. When all you’re trying to do is make it through the day without crying and do your job.

Then, when she gets off, whatever had her sobbing emerges to the front again and now she’s an emotional wreck all over again. Can you imagine the emotional roller coaster and the ride she’s taking? So when people say you never know what others are going through, BE KIND. Here’s a reminder. Even if she wasn’t going to work. The fact is we all have emotional roller coaster rides, act like nothing is going on, and then getting back on the ride.

Remember some handle the ride well and others take a while to calm down. You never know. Be well!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

DON’T LET SOCIAL MEDIA KEEP YOU BROKE

Mindless scrolling will keep you broke. Consuming too much social media will keep you broke. The endless amount of content that people put out there and sell will have you thinking what you have is never enough, outdated, out of season, or just wrong. Please keep in mind they make a commission, receive products for free, and often times return product back to the store after posting.

black android smartphone

We live in a world where over consumption is keeping everyone broke trying to keep up with the latest of latest.

News flash, you don’t need a tiny home size closet. Having a wall of shoes that you probably only wear once is unrealistic. That is a waste of money. No one needs 30 pair of jeans. 20 white shirts. Please take the fashion inspiration and filter the rest. Also wear what you want. Who needs a new wardrobe every season? All it takes is investing in a few good pieces to create multiple outfits. Think about it, many of us grab the same pieces to wear to work, do errands, lounge around, and even during exercise.

Next, take it from me, a beauty junkie, there’s absolutely no reason anyone needs 10 foundations, 15 eyeshadow palettes, 40 lipsticks, and 20 bronzers. First of all, you’re never going to use any one product until it’s gone. Money wasted. The product does expire. And the rate these cosmetic companies are putting out new products it’s just useless, wasteful, and unnecessary. Many of your favorite gurus don’t even use the product after posting. Again having a closet just for makeup is unrealistic. Get you the basics you need and replenish as needed.

Talking about social media keeping you broke, who has the time and money to go on 4 lavish and exotic vacations every year. In the real world, a family barely takes one vacation a year. Don’t let social media think you’re not living life if you aren’t jet setting across the globe. Spoiler alert: some of them aren’t either. Much of what you see is FAKE!!!!! You can have a great life experiencing local festivities and activities.

Ok, this is the last one and it’s a doozy. Before you check out of your Amazon cart, ask yourself if it’s a need. I love watching “25 Things You Didn’t Know You Needed From Amazon”, but I don’t go buy them. I guarantee, if you look around your home, there are items purchased that aren’t being used. Just gadgets that seem cool, fun to look at, or great concept for a one time use. Everything should have a place and there’s a place for everything.

Social media can be a great tool for inspiration. But leave it there. Keep things in perspective. Be realistic. And while they are making a great living don’t you go broke buying everything they recommend because “it’s a must have.” ALL MY SOCIAL MEDIA APPS DELETED

Ironically this will not only help your wallet, but your mental and emotional wellness also. A few years ago I began getting irritated by all the clothes that still had tags on them in the closet. Shoes, especially tennis shoes, that I forgot about because I had too many options or my lifestyle just didn’t provide me the opportunities to get a good wear out of all I had. It pains me to talk about the amount of half used makeup I threw out because I had too much or it was sitting for too long.

I took my own advice after looking around my home and seeing money laying around and wasted.

That’s when the lightbulb went off. The first step in getting to a great place mentally and emotionally is going bare. I began selling clothes and shoes that I didn’t wear. If I had’t worn it in a year I was selling it. If I forgot I had it, I sold it. Let’s get to know me and heal me without all this “stuff”. It’s an amazing feeling. No distractions, you making some money on the side, and learning to be comfortable as you are.

Don’t let social media keep broke or make you go broke. Use it for inspiration, ideas, and entertainment. But just like they do, use a filter and get rid of the excess. Be well!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

HELLO SEPTEMBER

Yup, it’s September 1, 2023. Where has the time gone? For some September is about pumpkin spice latte’s, apple cider, fall festivals, pumpkin patch visits, and my favorite, decor. However, September is exciting because football is back, a plethora of new fall TV shows, and back to school. Lastly, who doesn’t love fall fashion? Fall can be the best time of year for fashion. You get to wear sweaters, boots, layer, and get creative.

stationery surrounded by dried flowers

While all of that is exciting and great entertainment, September reminds us that the end of the year is quickly approaching. Some stress over Christmas holiday shopping, have they reached their goals, and what are they going to before the clock strikes midnight on December 31. You’ll probably going to see an increase of content on what to do these last couple of months to achieve your goals. How to set yourself up for next year. Or, you should already be thinking about next year. Either way it can be stressful.

Please remember that it’s great content to keep you motivated, on track, and getting your juices flowing for your life. However, consuming the content without filters can cause some to feel like they aren’t doing enough, they have failed at their goals, it’s too late, times running out, or they aren’t working hard enough. When it comes to consuming that information, take the tips and tricks that apply to your lifestyle and create realistic systems and goals to live your life. Leave the rest.

As we say hello September, think about what you need to feel free and light. Just like the leaves fall for the season, what do you need to get rid of that isn’t serving you. If you’ve been stressing over the same thing for months, nothing has changed, let if fall with the leaves. You’ve tried something and it wasn’t what you thought, OH WELL, you tried. Take the good lessons you learned from it, and move on to something else. Get rid of what you need to sleep, rest, and have peace at the end of each day. 7 HEALING JOURNAL PROMPTS FOR A PEACEFUL WEEK

With our hello this month, we’re going to see some new colors bring life to nature. That’s our hint to add some color and life into our daily routine. If you haven’t been one to attend a fall festival find one close to you to visit. Have you been apple picking, to a pumpkin patch (yes we plan to go this year even though my kids are teenagers), or an hayride. The goal here is to find something local, free or close to free, do something that you never done, and explore.

This is a trick I started last year and have enjoyed. This summer we stopped by our local Ford Enthusiast festival that is held every year, but have never went. They had food, live bands, games, and endless Ford cars displayed for one weekend. We had a blast. All it takes is to try.

Say hello to September. Enjoy your lattes, soups, chili’s, and cobblers. Get comfy cozy in your favorite sweaters and live colorful. Your heart, mind, and body will reward you.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

MENTAL NOTE OF THE DAY

”I pray you feel from things no one ever apologized for.” – Nakeia Homer

sorry text in pieces of white paper

Sometimes you won’t get the apology you need to heal, move on, or get closure from. We have to heal ourselves and be ok with not getting the apology. Yes, this is a very difficult thing to do. LET GO!!!!! You’ve been hurt, wronged, taken advantage of, mistreated, and abused. You didn’t deserve it. You did nothing wrong. In my quest to heal myself, I’ve come to learn that as long as I’ve done what was in my power to do, I have to leave it where it stands. I can’t do my part and someone else’s. Neither can you. Reconcile with yourself you’ve done what you can do. Sometimes they aren’t able to see what you see. Some are just stuck in their ways. They don’t want to see it in a different perspective. 7 HEALING JOURNAL PROMPTS FOR A PEACEFUL WEEK Maybe they’ve been so unfairly treated that it’s too cloudy for them to see clearly. Whatever the circumstances are, being ok without an apology frees you. It also frees them. In the event they do apologize at a later time you’ll be able to receive it and be emotionally strong. No matter what occurred you are responsible for your own healing. Even if you did receive an apology you still have to heal yourself. Enjoy the rest of your day!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

IT’S THE FIRST OF THE YEAR

Well, for me it’s the first of the year. Today is my birthday and I’ve always used my birthday as my “reset” day, beginning day, or milestone day. Every since I was a teenager I’ve always viewed my birthday as a deadline date to do something or start something . I never wanted a big party or extravagant gifts. For me, I’d wake up and make a goal about what I wanted personally for myself by the my next birthday.

birthday card and bouquet of flowers

A couple years ago, I turned 40 and that was my big day to cut my hair. I set goals on how I wanted to feel, where I wanted to be mentally, emotionally. My birthday is my first of the year. I love spending the day being me. Isn’t that’s what it’s for? To be in peace and completely me. My plan for the day is to wake up, get myself all dolled up, light my new candle, and sit outside and drink my coffee in one of my favorite mugs.

The simple things and the simple life is what I enjoy. I’ve learned to let things go. Let them be what they are. Not worry about what they could have been or what I hoped for. Time is very precious. I know it’s a cliche, but really it is. Just look it’s the middle of August. If I want to do something, buy somethings, go somewhere, eat something, then I’m going to do it. I understand the purpose of living each day. I won’t get them back.

”Sometimes you need to take a break from everyone and spend time alone, to experience, appreciate, and love yourself.”- Robert Tew

One of my goals was to be more self aware and emotionally strong. Not take things personally. Be confident in myself. Give myself without depleting me. Being honest in my communication. Standing on my boundaries without being dismissive. Not feeling like I have to explain myself. Being knowledgeable, comfortable, and confident in my decisions. Not seeking validation or approval to live or just be me.

I enjoy my birthday. I own my birthday. It’s the first of the year for me. My goal is to continue my quest of emotional intelligence. Using my path and journey to pour into family, friends, and my children. I feel great and grateful for the mental clarity that God gives me. I like me. I love who I am becoming and hope it’s infectious.

My hope for you is to find your own way of feeling free. Whatever that may look like for you. How do you reset, reflect, and recharge? Do you use January 1 or your birthday like I do? Or some other day?

Be well!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

BEST THING I HEARD THIS WEEK

”If you want more, then do more. If you’re happy with the relationship you have, then don’t do anything. It’s totally up to you. There is no right or wrong answer.”

One day at work someone in the office got a phone call. Of course they put it on speaker and I was able to hear the conversation. The woman asked if she should call a certain person for their birthday and wish them a happy birthday.

the word thoughts on a pin board

SideNote: I don’t know the exact relation of the woman and person in the office. Also I wasn’t able to get a clear picture on who had the lucky birthday and their relation as well. But it was clear they all knew each and were kind of close.

It was clear from her tone there was an internal conflict. She was confused, wanted to do the right thing, and was looking for the answer either way. You know, we wall have those moments where you just want someone to tell you Yay or Nay. Looking for the answer or validation in your confused state.

When he responded with “are you happy where the relationship is?” And then said “”If you want more, then do more. If you’re happy with the relationship you have, then don’t do anything. It’s totally up to you. There is no right or wrong answer.” I perked up and my antennas went up. You know I love a good quote or food for thought. Favorite Iyanla Vanzant Quotes: MOTIVATIONAL AND INSPIRING

What he said resonated not only in relationships, but in life. If you want more in your career then do more. If you want more in your spiritual journey then do more, if you are ok then do nothing. No matter what the circumstance or situation is you have the power to make the decision. And guess what, because it’s your decision, it’s the right one. What’s right for me may not be right for you. But it’s your choice.

If you are having an internal conflict about something, simply ask yourself are you happy in it’s current state. Do I want more? Do I need more? Am I ok with where I am or what I have? Will I be ok if I don’t get anything? Then answer your own questions. Proceed accordingly.

It will always work out because you resolved it for yourself. Yes, we want others opinions, sometimes validation, and for someone to just give us the answer. But will it be right within you. The choice is yours. Enjoy the rest of your day!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

SOMETIMES YOU JUST HAVE TO UNPLUG

”Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes…including you. -Anne Lamott

I took a break. A long break. Sometimes the best thing you can do is unplug and step away from everything. Taking a break gives you your power back, gives you clarity, and energy to continue on whatever path your life is taking you.

stressed black girl covering ears

One of the best outcomes of me taking a break has been my self awareness. The immense power you have when you can be self aware to know and understand why you respond, react, or do certain things. Self awareness takes courage, patience, and practice. You will go on a roller coaster ride to get to the top.

For about two months, as it became closer and closer for me to clock in for work, I would have heart palpitations, sweaty palms, sudden flow of tears, body was jittery, and a huge lump in my throat. All while spending the prior hour meditating, journaling, and praying. Even after doing all I could, I still had a physical reaction. Even when I got off, all I could think about was what I had to do, what was next, and how I can trick my mind into thinking everything was ok. My weekends felt like quick sand. They would go by so fast and all I could think about is how I didn’t want to go to work.

So I started to listen to my body and the response it was giving me that I couldn’t control. YOUR MIND AND BODY GIVES YOU ALL THE ANSWERS YOU NEED Why am I feeling like this? What is it that I have anxiety about? Do I want to do this? I finally had to admit to myself, that I was psyching myself out and pumping myself up just to go to work. One morning talking to my husband without thinking I said “I am not happy and I don’t want to do this.”

I couldn’t believe I said it, but I felt a huge burden lifted. After I admitted that, it was easy for me to realize how much time I spent convincing myself “it’s not a big deal”, “anybody would love to have that job”, “do you know how many people would love to make the money you make”, and so many other thoughts.

book page

The self awareness gave me the power and strength to not care what others would say or do. Determine if I leave or not. I literally made the decision to do what was best for me and it hasn’t been more freeing.

I have absolutely no anxiety going to work. There isn’t a thought of “ugh I have to go to work.” I enjoy my weekend and my Mondays aren’t blue. 6 TIPS FOR MONDAY MORNING BLUES

In taking a break I also learned what a truly makes me happy. Do you ever have trouble answering that question,”What makes you happy?” Being still you understand, realize, and appreciate the things that make you happy. After taking my power back through self awareness, I was able to confidently say what I wanted my happiness to be like and feel like. Without shame, guilt, or embarrassment.

I love doing my morning skincare routine. It makes me feel like I’m preparing myself for the day. It brightens me not only physically but mentally. My morning skincare routine also gives me confidence and strength to go out and put my best foot forward. I love eating good heart healthy foods to keep my blood pressure and health in order. Drinking water to ensure my body is hydrated and cleansed makes me feel good. Working out, sweating, and releasing negative energy is my mental therapy. Nothing clears my mind daily like a good walk. My nighttime skincare and bath routine calms me, allows me to leave the day that day, and prepare for a clean slate the next.

Unplugging and taking a break allowed me to strengthen relationships, strengthen boundaries, and resolve any limiting factors that was prohibiting me from being me. There was a point in my break that I said aloud for the first time, “the mother I wanted or needed I would never have.” How can I participate in what she has to offer without being so drained mentally and emotionally ? That felt like I lost hundreds of pounds in a day. Again, without guilt, shame, or anger I was able to come to grips and set clear boundaries on what kind of relationship I can participate in.

I have never felt so free, happy, and light.

My mental clarity and self awareness has given me an understanding and healing to want to know how to communicate better. Understand what a person needs from me. Also to be honest with myself and others on what I can offer or not. Amazingly, in a conversation with my aunt, unknowingly, I said “auntie I can’t give you what you need or looking for, but I can help you get to what you need and looking for.”

The fact that I was mentally and emotionally in tuned with myself and empathetic to her, allowed me to create boundaries, validate her, and be honest with her and myself was energetic in my body.

One of my prayers everyday is for strength to do the mission I am handed. Take it from me, it’s ok to take a break. Even if you don’t know what you need or want. If there is too much going on in your head and body, unplug. Sometimes you can do all you can, journal, pray, meditate, and you still need to unplug. To be honest, it’s not even a bad idea to take a break every so often to regroup. Life is going to life. Have a great weekend.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

MOTHERHOOD STILL INSPIRES ME

I’ll repeat until the end of time; being a mom is the most important position I’ll ever hold. Having the responsibility to raise three children to be their most successful, responsible, and authentic self is a ride of a lifetime. It’s rewarding, fulfilling, motivating, educational, inspiring, and a journey. Tapping into motherhood requires patience, communication, and selflessness.

white ceramic teacup

Being a mom inspires me to better myself. I pray each day for strength to be the mom they need me to be. So often as parents we can make the mistake in guiding our children into who we think they should be instead supporting them into who they are meant to be. Supporting each one of my kids requires me to unlearn, relearn, and communicate with them at their respective stage and communication style. BEING A MOM INSPIRES ME

Learning triggers, what they are looking for from me, and how to deliver to get them to understand has required me to check myself and my communication style. Also having that balance of hearing them and making decisions as mom. Sometimes, yes, as a mom, we have to make tough decisions they won’t like. But it’s the best decision at the time.

The more they grow, they encourage me to take care of myself. My level of self care and how I navigate each day is to promote a healthy balance. I want them to learn from me instead of just hearing me say it. That has required me to take a deep internal journey into my self . Heal, grow, and learn. The more confidence I instill in them, the more my confidence builds for myself. I don’t want them to just do as I say and not as I do.

Believe me, kids are very smart and they will know when you’re aren’t practicing what you preach. You’ll lose them.

Learning to let go. Trust what you’ve taught them. Trust them in their decision making. Also knowing as a mom I can’t prevent everything. There are going to be times they fall. That is a part of their learning and growth. Knowing how to uplift and build each child back up is key to their success.

My kids inspires me to be patient, listen to my emotions, communicate and listen. Having the confidence to know trust your gut. Make the best decision with what you have at that time. Live life without regrets. Never stop learning. My oldest teaches me to live simply. Remain even toned. Never get too high or too low. My daughter teaches me to be me authentically. No matter what’’s happening around you stay in tuned to who you are and make decisions that are best for you. My youngest son teaches me to be empathetic. Have compassion. Be understanding and don’t give up.

To all the moms out there, you are doing great. Trust yourself. Treat yourself nice. Happy Mother’s Day!!!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

MENTAL NOTE OF THE DAY

”Other people’s idea of you is not your responsibility to live up to.” – Unknown

have a great day sticker on brown surface

The number one reason many are unhappy, stressed, or emotionally tired is because they are trying to live up to someone’s else’s idea of who and what they should be. We never want to let others down. Especially our loved ones. However, even trying to “live” up to a loved one expectation of you, can be very damaging to your mental and emotional health. Growing up my mother had her own idea of what college I should attend. She wanted me to attend nursing school so bad, but that was her dream. If you find yourself trying to prove to anyone you’re good enough or prove your value then you have to take your own power back. WHEN YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM THE DISEASE TO PLEASE In doing so, don’t even verbally express what you are going to do. Redirect your life and path to what you actually want to do or be. When you begin to live in your desires and what makes you happy, the benefit is for you and any relationship. Each day you’ll wake up ready to live through the day. The anxiety of what lies ahead no longer hold you hostage. The relationships that are meant to be, will be. But living for you, without seeking permission, or second guessing is the most freeing feeling. Enjoy your day!!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.