I would be lying if I didn’t say it hasn’t been a hard week.
A really hard week.
I wish I had the words to sit and articulate all my thoughts and rehash all the details, but I’m just not there yet. Do not worry, as always, you’ll be the first to know when I have details to share 🙂 . I feel like my emotions are on a roller-coaster that I need to get off.
The good news?
Ironically, today’s post is sponsored by Nordstrom and ShopStyle and was scheduled to be all about self-care and right this minute, this mama needs to keep remembering to stop and take care of herself. How serendipitous is that for a post today?! Bonus, today also includes my 5 minute makeup routine! (Because this week, five minutes was all I had to get myself together!) I always love partnering with Nordstrom, but this time, it’s like they read my mind and foresaw the future 🙂 .
Okay, just like every Friday, I’m linking up with my sweet friends Erika and Andrea and sharing a few faves. I hope you’re excited about the weekend too!!
Right now, I love that Nordstrom is encouraging self-care because with so much going on in 2020, it could be reallllly easy to forget to take care of yourself while you’re busy taking care of everyone else. I don’t know that I even realize I’m practicing self-care when I do these things, but this little list here is what really keeps me energized, focused and rested…
#1 MY DAILY QUIET TIME: For me, starting every day in the Word is the best way to keep my priorities straight and keep my focus on what’s important. You can read all about my daily devotional time HERE.
#2 READING: Even though this week has been bananas, and I’ve stayed up way later than normal, I’ve read every night. I’m not one of those people who just close their eyes and go straight to sleep, I like the routine of unwinding, and even in the craziness, I’ve done that every night this week with a good book (my book review is next week!!).
#3 BEING OUTSIDE: Anyone else need to go outside to recharge during the day? When I feel sluggish or tired, a brisk walk, taking my computer outdoors, running around with my dogs, always peps me up.
#4 EXERCISING: I always try to give myself grace on days (or weeks) when I can’t exercise like I’d like to, but even this week, I was able to take some time most mornings for a quick run. I don’t know about you, but I never regret exercising but often regret when I make the decision not to exercise. It really is one way I can instantly feel better.
#5 TALKING TO FRIENDS: God bless girlfriends. Staying connected to friends is absolutely one of the main ways to take care of myself.
# 6 BATHS & BINGE-WATCHING: I used to not be a “bath person”, but the older I get, the more I enjoy that few minutes of uninterrupted quiet at the end of the day. I like to set my phone near the tub and watch a show while I take my bath. For me, that’s one of the only times during the day when I am really by myself…and I love it! I just started watching All American (thanks to you!), and it’s been nice to have a show and take a bath each night of this crazy week.
#7 COZY PJS: You girls know how much I love cozy pjs, a robe and slippers. It’s realllllly hard to feel stressed after putting that trio on!!
#8 LIGHTING A CANDLE: I love candles burning, and even though things have been bananas, I’ve been lighting the candle in my office every day to give me some sort of feeling of “normal”. Call me crazy, but it makes me feel like things are way more calm than they really are.
Okay, your turn!
What do you do to take care of yourself?!
Here are a few pics of my self-care faves from Nordstrom in action…
This is my VERY FAVORITE ROBE and SLIPPERS!! In fact, as I sit here now, I’m wearing both! I have gifted this combo to more people than I can count. It’s the perfect Christmas/birthday/graduation/just had a baby/sorry about your loss/I hope you recover/just because gift combination! In fact, here’s a picture of me right this minute…
…of course, wearing both! #everysingleday #thecoziest
Speaking of cozy…
…this pic is an oldie but goodie, but my girls still wear and love their slippers and of course, we always, always love PJ Salvage pajamas!! My girls wear them and so do I! They are the coziest, comfiest pajamas that wash, dry and wear on repeat beautifully! You can see current slippers for kids HERE (their pair is still in stock in limited sizes!) and then look at these cute pajamas too…
This favorite is something HUGE we’re celebrating today…
…sweet Ashby is finally having an MRI and bonus, THEY DON’T HAVE TO PUT HER UNDER TO DO IT!
(Insert alllllllllll the praise hands right here!!)
Ashby is so behind on her surgeries and MRIs, so today’s scan is a huge blessing. Two things to note, first, they’re doing this MRI before scheduling her next surgery because the next one might be even more invasive, so we need all the facts before we proceed. Second (and huge!), she doesn’t have to go under general anesthesia for this one as long as she can lay realllllllly still for an hour or so. Ashby is so excited!! We all know that GA is not her favorite thing (she’s done it 24 times so far!), so as long as she can be calm and still, she doesn’t have to go under today. We are at the hospital this morning, so prayers are, of course, always so appreciated!
I’ve had so many sweet questions and DMs lately about my summer makeup routine from pics like this…
…right now, even during the chaos, I just feel better if I get myself a little put together (total self-care for me!), but I legit only have about five minutes to do so (which explains all the hats and buns!). Not only do I not have the time, but I just don’t want to wear a ton of makeup when it’s super hot outside (anyone else feel like it just melts right off?!).
I have a little video here of me applying my FIVE MINUTE MAKEUP with my favorite Nordstrom products (all already in my cabinet and ready to go!)! My video was only 4 minutes and 53 seconds long, but don’t worry, I sped it up so you can see how I apply everything so quickly…
Here are all of my favorite products from this video along with why I love them:
1: Foundation Stick: you can read my FOUNDATION REVIEW post, but this one here is my absolute fave! I love that you can apply as much or as little as you want. I love that it feels hydrating on my skin and not drying. I love that it easily glides on. I love everything about it. I’m wearing it in the shade light beige.
2: Under Eye Brightener: If I haven’t convinced you that this stuff is gold yet, I’m not sure what else I can do??? This is amazing!!!!! When I only have a few minutes to apply makeup, this instantly brightens my face!!
3: Bronzer and bronzer brush: Okay, I really think the brush is key when applying bronzer here. If I only could pick two products to wear the rest of my life, I’d pick lips and bronzer. Nothing wakes you up and makes you look glowy and vibrant more than bronzer.
4: Blush: There is a reason why this blush (in orgasm) is a cult classic. The universally flattering peachy pink color looks good on all skin types. Don’t believe me? Read the reviews!!
5: Lip Color: I love this matte lipstick!! I started wearing this one in Goals last summer. I love it because it lasts for hours (seriously, this one has staying power!!). It comes in many, many colors, but this pink color is the perfect pop when I’m not doing a lot of other makeup.
6: Eyebrow pencil: I started using this one in blonde thanks to you guys! So many of you recommended it to me, and now, I love it too. It goes on a little creamy and not harsh.
7: Eye Shadow Stick: When I’m doing my normal makeup routine (and not the abbreviated one), this is what I use as an eye shadow primer. It works for quick eye shadow too. I’m using it in rose gold.
8: Top Eye Liner in Noir: How many years now have I been saying this is my favorite eye liner?! I wear it every day. I love it for so many reasons, but right now during the summer, I love it the most because it’s waterproof!!
9: Bottom Eye Liner in Blanc: A little white eyeliner instantly wakes you up!
10: Mascara: You can read my full mascara review post HERE. For years, I’ve been saying Mac’s Haute & Naughty is my fave!
11: Beauty Blender: Last but certainly not least, a damp Beauty Blender is the only way to be! I love how seamless it applies everything, how easy it is to clean and how great it is for mid-day touchups!
Apparently…
…the name of the game now is get ready in upstairs bathroom as quickly as possible and then…
…head to baseball…
…and repeat.
There are so many reasons to be a Nordstrom shopper, but right now, in the climate we’re all currently living in, I love how they’re supporting diversity, encouraging influencers to talk about self-care, they’re making pick up so easy with curbside service, and of course, they always have free shipping and returns. I haven’t been inside a Nordstrom since February, but I certainly have stayed a loyal customer because they make shopping for my entire family so easy.
Last but not least this week…
…it’s hard to believe, but July 4th is right around the corner!! If you’re looking for a festive recipe to make that day (from breakfast to snacks, and of course, dessert too!), I have all of your RED, WHITE AND BLUE recipes HERE!
I don’t know what’s happening in my world right now, it’s probably some form of grieving, and I so wish I could articulate my thoughts and feelings to each of you. I have loved this community hard for almost 13 years now, but this week, you really did overwhelm me. I could go on for hours about the notes, cards, DMs, comments, emails, messages, and more you have poured on our family. On Wednesday, I asked people on Instagram to give this fiasco a hashtag and so many of you came up with SUCH CREATIVE choices, but my favorite of the bunch was #thistooshullpass . It’s hopeful and optimistic and TRUE! This flood has been devastating, but it’s just a flood. It will pass. Everything will be just fine. Thank you for thinking of us this week. God bless each and every one of you. Have a wonderful weekend!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
Some weeks are harder than others Shay<3 I’m glad you are finding time for you! So happy to hear Ashby doesn’t have to get GA! Prayers for your girl today. Love the PJs and feel like I need a PJ weekend at this point.
Xo
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Mary says
You look so pretty! Where are your clear and pink earrings from? So cute!
Mix and Match Mama says
J Crew 🙂
Dana says
I don’t know how you managed to pull another great post after the week you’ve had! Some random thoughts:
1. I had to have an MRI last year and I was so embarrassed because I panicked and started crying (I didn’t realize how claustrophobic I am). Well, round 2 I remembered that I memorized Psalm 23 as a song. I sang it to myself the rest of the time and it was so comforting and I made it out. That Psalm has brought me through a lot of trying situations in the past in fact.
2. I finally tried Beautycounter for the first time recently after wanting to try it out for years. Their lip gloss is so good! I haven’t tried it yet, but they have a creamy blush that’s supposed to be really good and a similar color to the Nars one. (I’ve never tried it either, but everyone seems to love it!) I love that BC is really trying to clean up the cosmetics industry and regulation, too.
3. That picture of you and Kensington is one to frame for sure!!
Mix and Match Mama says
You are always the sweetest, Dana. xx
Kristin Smith says
Weird question, but curious if your ball caps are traditional caps or those ones that you can pull a bun/pony out of the top? So adorable!
Mix and Match Mama says
They’re all adjustable and not fitted 🙂 .
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Thank you for sharing! I definitely think exercise helps lift my mood. I need to start working out regularly again! ❤️✨
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Meredith Smith says
Would love to know where you got the Smith hat. Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Smith College!
Kathy says
Praying for Ashby’s MRI this morning. I’m sure she will be a trooper and do great! I think the hashtag #thistooshullpass is perfect, and I’m praying it passes very quickly. Hoping your weekend brings you joy!
Julie C. says
I love your makeup video!!!! Thanks for always being willing to show us EVERYTHING!!! 😉 I was wondering: how do you wear your hair when wearing a hat????
Mix and Match Mama says
Just pulled back in a low pony/bun/knot thing 🙂 .
Samantha Harris says
The hashtag is perfect! Prayers for Ashby & sending love to you!
Marianne says
You look adorable Shay- thanks for sharing your makeup routine. Thinking of you and your family this week! xo
Jenny Curtis says
I’ve noticed lately no interaction between all you gals and Narci on social media. She doesn’t link up to Friday Favorites anymore either. Hope everything is okay?
Mix and Match Mama says
She’s decided to move a new direction with her social media which is awesome for her!
Theresa says
Ever the classiest, positive and hopeful person you are, you went with a good one, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was pulling for #shulls&$tshow! ?? Saying prayers and sending so much love to your brave girl, Ashby, and of course, to you as well today that all goes super well ❤️??❤️
Mix and Match Mama says
You made me LOL! 😉
Christina says
Praying for Ashby! And for you!
Thanks for this fun update.
May I ask a nosy question? Not trying to be judgy here, but I keep seeing Texas in the news for having one of the nation’s sharpest spikes of COVID cases. Are you worried about social gatherings and baseball, etc? I find as a mom I’m a bit unsure how to proceed….
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you so much for the prayers, I really, really appreciate them. I would proceed with what your mama heart tells you because I bet that’s spot on.
Christina says
Aww, thanks! Good advice.
Continuing to pray for Ashby!
Susy says
I am praying for Ashby. What an amazing child!
I am also praying for all virus-spiking states. Mask-wearing goes beyond political beliefs. Masks are simply the highest indication of compassion for others—putting the health of others before self. So saddened to hear of the recent birthday party where so many were infected by a pre-symptomatic attendee. If we collectively have the will we will have a way to conquer this horrible time. I love Dr. Seuss’ Lorax: “Unless someone like ‘us’ cares a whole awful lot, it’s not going to get better. It’s not.”
Laura says
It’s stressful!! I have some friends whose lives seem almost completely back to normal but just as many who are still 100 percent quarantined. Masks are required for errand running and most indoor places in my state so our numbers seem pretty stable. I’m dreading the thought of spiking and another shutdown.
Erika Slaughter says
Oh my gosh!! I LOVE the hashtag!!! Lots of prayers for Ashby this morning!
Grier says
YAY! Tell smith congrats on his baseball for me! Have you been to Narci’s new house? Is it even more charming than in the pictures?:)
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you so much!! And no, I haven’t been yet!
Kacy M says
God puts us through all kinds of seasons in life for a reason – love you and your family. #selfcareforthewin 🙂 have a restful weekend!
Amy Heinl says
It definitely has been a rough week for you and your family but lifting you in prayer for continued strength. The bright spot is hearing that sweet Ashby can have this MRI without general anesthesia. I know she will rock being still today. I pray this weekend you have some peaceful moments wrapped in all the love being sent your way
Beth Knecht says
You are so sweet!
Have the best weekend!
Hoping for a sunny one! ?
Sheaffer Sims says
Praying for Ashby today! Praying for a calm heart and a really still body! And I finally added the under eye brightener to my cart.
Lauren says
Praying for all to go well with Ashby today! And that was my favorite hashtag! Hang in there!! ❤️
Ashley says
I started out with the Anastasia brow definer (also I’m blonde) but found the cheaper revlon version was waaaaaaaay better!
April says
Prayers for sweet Ashby this morning!
Lisa D says
I have found that a morning prayer walk can make my day a bit more positive. God bless.
Joanne says
Best of luck with the MRI today. The children’s hospital where we went for ours had these cool goggles for my son to wear that played a movie for him to watch so lying still wasn’t as big an issue since he was busy. He was only 5 at the time and had to be awake for his. He only got a bit antsy for the last 5-10 minutes when Finding Nemo ended and we weren’t quite done. Thankfully I was allowed in the room and just kept talking to him reminding him to stay extra still so we could finish up. I hope you get good news with this too.
Elspeth says
I’m a huge fan of self-care. I always start my day journaling and prayer. It’s the best way to start the day on a good note. Love your easy makeup routine. I hope this weekend brings you peace and serenity. Have a great weekend!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Dawn Engle says
Praying for you and your family each and every day – especially for sweet Ashby today! What a week indeed! XO
Christina says
Do you wash your hats?! How do you do it?! So many of mine have makeup on the inside and I can’t help feel that is not good for my skin when I wear it over and over again! Thank you!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I try not to! I did wash one the other day just in the machine and let it air dry. I know some people wash theirs in the dishwasher.
Annette says
I found some hats called Trailheads. UV protection, machine washable, even a folding one.
On Amazon and their website has free shipping also.
I haven’t tried one, but I’m getting ready to order one.
KRISTIN TATE says
It’s tough to be on this side of the screen as your family is constantly facing new obstacles. I have to say, y’all are some roll with the punches type of folks. The way you dust off and get back up is admirable. It’s clear that your faith is strong and belief that all things work together for good outlook is at work.
My prayer is that someone feeling hopeless or defeated is able to be encouraged by you and your family.
Thank you for being so open with your readers. Many prayers and warm thoughts for you.
Anonymous says
SHAY!!!! Oh if I could wrap you in a bear hug… even though I don’t know you at all! Haha! I truly think you are my spirit animal — I DO ALL OF THESE THINGS AS SELF-CARE! It was crazy reading your list and thinking… yep… yep… YEP! The binging and bathing, candles, putting a little makeup on, quiet time.. gives me all the feels. I also love all of your makeup and book recommendations! There are some books I have read before you that I wasn’t crazy about, and reading your same thoughts reviews basically solidified me following all of your book recs ever since! Just want to encourage you for being such a light and highlighting the simple and happy things we can do for ourselves and our home to make our hearts feel lighter.
Mix and Match Mama says
I wish you could hug me too!!!! Thank YOU for wanting to love on me. xo
shawnna Griffin says
hey girl- love the post- Your makeup always looks oh so pretty! Still praying for you and your family- Love y’all!!!! try to have a great weekend!
Courtney says
Just a quick note to say that I am raising Ashby (and you, mama) in prayer and praying that peace and calm can overcome her during the MRI. I am sure you are a pro, but I have a hard time being in the MRI machines without panicking, and just 2 weeks ago they let my brother stand just outside of the machine with headphones and just being able to see him out of the corner of my eye kept me calm enough to make it through. Blessings!
Lisa Tucker says
Your life has been turned upside down and your makeup is still spot on! Love the tutorial! Praying for sweet Ashby today!
Ella J says
Hi Shay,
I felt so validated by your 5-minute makeup routine for a few reasons. Firstly, 5-minutes, secondly, under-eye brightener, thirdly, you used your fingers, ha! My sister thinks I’m crazy that I apply makeup with fingers, but I find it saves time, works well, and I don’t have as many brushes to clean.
I love how upbeat you are about the situation and your hashtag just personifies that.
Mix and Match Mama says
Isn’t that why we have fingers? For applying makeup? 😉 Thank YOU!!! xo
Karah Stracener says
Just said a prayer for sweet Ashby! Thank you for sharing your makeup routine. I’m like you and want to wear as little makeup as possible on this Texas heat. I’m going to have to try that Becca under eye brightener. I love the new hashtag and I am so sorry y’all have had a rough week. Praying for you all. 2020 has not been fun.
Caroline says
Hi! What color is your matte lipstick in the video? So pretty!
Mix and Match Mama says
“goals” 🙂
Lindsay D. says
Praying for Ashby this morning!
Constance says
Love your makeup! It all looks so natural and light! I can’t believe Ashby has had GA 24 TIMES! she is the bravest little girl!
Keisha Dawson says
Prayers for Miss Ashby as she has her MRI today. Prayers for your sweet family as you navigate all that has come your way!
Claire says
Okay, who is going to come up with some “God bless girlfriends” merch?! I’m just so with you on this one—life is so much BETTER with great girlfriends in it! ??????
Sending lots of love to you and the Shull fam. I saw this on IG recently and thought you might like this quote. I love a little something to help rally after a real a$$-kicker of a week. (Sorry but just times when ya gotta call them like they are!)
“The devil whispered in my ear: you are not strong enough to withstand the storm.
Today, I whispered back: I am a child of God, a woman of faith, a warrior of Christ. I am the storm.”
Gina says
Prayers for sweet Ashby…what a strong girl in Christ. Shay will you please let us know how the MRI went for her. Thank you
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
Ok, every time you post the foundation stick I tell myself I need to try that and then I end up forgetting. I’m doing it today though. You sold me. (As always. ?) Prayers for Miss Ashby!!
That Inspired Chick
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you sweet friend! Now, go buy that foundation stick 😉 .
Lisa says
Praying for your precious Ashby today.
PS. My son had an MRI recently and pediatrics were able to offer him movie goggles and headphones. May be a future option for Ashby.
Deena says
Sending an extra prayer for Ashby’s MRI. I think she’ll be fine staying still. She’s such a strong girl. One time I was too chill during my MRI and fell asleep. ?
Thanks for the 5 minute makeup routine. I very seldom spend more than that doing mine, even for evening, but you look way more put together.
I love the new hashtag! Good luck with all the house stuff and stay safe!
Kathy Cochran says
Thank you for the makeup routine and linking all the products!! Praying for sweet Ashby today and for your family.
Arika says
Please stay safe and healthy. What is happening in Texas with COVID is pretty scary.
ALIJ says
I’ve been taking care of myself by limiting my news intake – it was just getting to be too much. Back in May, a friend and I started walking every day before I had to log in remotely for work. We walk about 3.5 miles a day from 6AM to 7AM – it gives me enough time to get home, shower, eat breakfast and log in to work. I’ve also started varying where I work from. Yesterday I went down to our subdivision pool because it was so nice out and it was a nice change of pace. I’ve also been trying to just sit outside and read every day so I can enjoy nature and a good book.
Mix and Match Mama says
I love that you’re doing this now!!! I bet that’s your favorite hour of the day!
Dawn says
praying for you and Ashby and IT ALL right now, Shay!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you so much, Dawn!!!
Jaren says
Loved the morning routine!! It’s been a rough week around here too! Praying we all have a better month ahead!
Amy says
Your fine, everyone’s fine, everything is fine, it’s all fine! 😉 This is my mantra from now on! Praying for you and your family! Hope everything goes smooth and quick.
Mix and Match Mama says
I say it like 20 times a day 😉 .
Michele says
I’m praying for you sweet Shay. Your faith and positive attitude are SO inspiring. I have little things going on and my attitude is nowhere near yours. Even though my name isn’t Shull, I’m going to think about your hashtag for myself, if you don’t mind. 🙂 You’ve got this girl! Your determination will get you through. Don’t be afraid to share the negative though, we don’t mind one bit.
Love and prayers!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Ohhhhh! You are so sweet, Michele!!!
L Whitmer says
Where did you have the hat made from?
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s from Smith College 🙂 .
Annette says
What color do you get of the under eye brightener?
Praying for your sweet Angel today.
Mix and Match Mama says
Mine is the light/medium, I think!
Leslie says
Thank you for listing all the products. I love the lipstick. When I click the link it goes to the color Fresh. It looks so purple and not the beautiful pink you have on your lips. Do you mind sharing the name of the lipstick? I just want to make sure I order the correct one.
Mix and Match Mama says
My color is the one called “goals”. It really has staying power!!
RoseMaria says
????????????????
Prayers for you & your family!
I’ve been wanting to tell you about Marlo Thomas’s book: It Ain’t Over…Til It’s Over!
Reinventing Your Life and Realizing Your Dreams-Anytime, at Any Age….
You came to mind often as I read these uplifting stories of women “who had the courage to embrace change!
One of the Chapters: Recipes for Success, tells of two women: Deana Gunn, & Wona Miniati, who came up with an idea to have a cookbook using items from Trader Joe’s (I know how much you love TJ’s). There are now 9 titles in the Cooking With Trader Joe Series, including vegetarian & gluten free (great for your Kensington) editions.
Another Chapter: Veggie Mama tells about
Veronica Bogsgraff who invented a veggie bar that tastes like a brownie. It is called PURE
and is sold in many locations including Trader Joe’s.
Then another Chapter: Mary’s Gone Crackers, about Mary Waldner, who suffers from celiac disease like your Kensington, and came up with a gluten free cracker. Her company: Mary’s Gone Crackers (love that name) now offers new cracker flavors, pretzels and cookies.
This book would be a great book to include in your book list. Five dozen women tell how they changed their lives.
Also, Marlo Thomas has a new book out with her husband Phil Donahue on successful marriages. They interview couples like Kelly Ripa & her husband Mark, Jimmy & Roslyn Carter & others who have been together for many years.
Mix and Match Mama says
I like Marlo Thomas! Thank you so much for the suggestions!!!
RoseMaria says
You and Andrew should be in Marlo & Phil’s book on successful, happy marriages!?❤️?
P.S. I’m soon to be 72 & have pursued many interests some of which are being an Elementary School Teacher (OH), Sea World Narrator & Movie Colorist & Convention Center Guide (CA), Cable Sales Rep (OH), & at 60 was hired as a Flight Attendant (OH, MN, NY, MI), which I did for 4 years.
As Marlo says it’s never too late to realize & pursue your dreams.
You have done the same by being a cookbook author, blogger, travel agent, & most esp. being a spiritual leader as a Christian ?????, etc.
Ava Reis says
Hi, Shay! I always enjoy your posts, particularly your makeup suggestions. I am over 60, and I know I am not the only “older” person who follows you. I was wondering if you had ever considered asking your mom to share her make up suggestions on your site! I really believe there are many of us who would enjoy that! Thank you! Ava
RoseMaria says
I agree Ava. I hope we can get Sherry’s
makeup insights.
Maggie says
Do you use the light or dark color for the under eye brightening corrector?
Mix and Match Mama says
I use the lighter!