#like head to toe new shoes clothes accessories all from amazon

[quaalussy]

sometimes i forget that fast fashion = bad is not as mainstream a belief as it seems

[briahartley03]

Best Paddle Boards: Our Picks for Beginners!

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Best Paddle Boards: Our Picks for Beginners!

The paddle board learning is fun, calming and fit. Nor will you be at the highest level of fitness to enjoy it. You’re good to go, so you can balance on the board and swim if you fall off.

There’s always so much to consider when you engage in any hobby that it always means you are investing in the wrong equipment or attempting to do too much too early. This article will help you find out what your SUP can do, what you need and how to get started.

Finally heading for Start

The good thing is that there is not so much paddle boarding gear that you need to spend in to try it. Many beginners want to hire a board for their first trips to see whether boarding is their sport or not. The lakes, the rivers and the oceans are many areas where equipment is leased out and you just have to book your board and get up at the right time.

Also if you have no board or paddle to think about, you will have to do a few things for yourself

Check that you’ve got the right suit. Paddle boarding is not a good idea in jeans and t-shirts. Beginners tend to fall down – a lot – and heavy clothes get intoxicated and get heavier. Either a wetsuit, bathrobe or board shorts are the right things to wear.

Carry with you a life jacket as well. It can be very terrifying if you fall off first and can panic. When you are in a life jacket, a little more you can relax, realising that if you fall in, you are very free.

The SUP leash ensures that your board won’t float away when you fall off. •

A waterproof bag may be one thing you want to invest in. Many shops will also employ these, but you can plan anything you need if you have your own. It does not cost a lot and will go around your waist, shoulder or chair. You probably don’t have protected pockets on a paddle board and if you do, they might not be washable. It is possible that you’ll have a mobile, keypads, new shoes, even a map and a beer.

Start with it

You will now be able to join your board and get to train. It’s a good idea to invest in classes so that you can get on, stay on and swim, but here’s some ideas for help.

Find a quiet place where the water is quiet first of all. The SUP hire shop will tell you a good starting point if you’re not familiar with the area you have selected. Ask for a quiet spot if there are any others on the water. Starters stand out, so that’s an perfect place to try if you see a person training.

Only the slightest movement will cause you to fall off again once you get on your paddle board. Start in the knee deep water, so that you can manage the SUP as you go.

Install the desk.-Raise the desk

Place the paddle on the edge of the paddle and the blade in water around the rim. Keep on the rails and hold the rope, hop on the board and kneel. You will tip the board if you attempt to do it too slowly. You may also tip the board, if you are not properly balanced. You’ll get it right after a few attempts.

Stay in a kneeling posture until the right balance is reached. You have to finish with both sides of the handle with your feet, so stand slowly and try to balance when you are able.

When you fall down, don’t be scared off. For first, it is normal and you don’t have to figure out where you will be. It is normal. You can paddle now and fall off. Now you are on.

Going down. Falling down

It may sound odd, but if you practise lowering your SUP, your first SUP trip will be much simpler for you.

When you fall off, your normal instinct is to tense up and try and get back to the surface. You could knock the board down if you fell too low, and if you have a heavy surface, that could lead to injuries.

If you feel like you start juggling, relax and fall from the wall. When you wear a belt, even once in the water, the board won’t float away. You could make a big leap to land on cached rocks or go too far, and attempt to land on your back, but slightly wind your feet. You fell into the water instead of going too much if you have the right angle.

When you don’t do so, you will find yourself in trouble when you go on your first paddling trip. Don’t forget to know how to return after falling on your paddle board!

Paddle. Paddle.

You now have to push your SUP, you might get off balance. Paddling is another aspect that requires abilities, otherwise you will only end up in circles. This is a very common issue for beginners to paddle boarding.

The cart. The height of your paddle is the first thing to test. It will be about 6 inches above the top of your head if you stand beside you. A too long or too short paddle will affect how successful you are in the management of your SUP.

Strike. You will always be in the right place if you’re matched correctly. The shoulder width of the feet should be divided and positioned evenly on either side of the middle of the floor. Slightly bent would be the elbows.

Fastness. When you paddle, this is very important. It’s easier to bring the power where you need it if you have the right grip. Place your hand on the shaft nearest you to the paddle and put your hand on your chest. Instead of pulling or pushing your elbow, using your core to steer the paddle. Use beautiful, clean shots and maintain the paddle level at the board bottom. This will have a straight stroke around the length of the neck.

In a SUP, what would you do.

You will tell for what your paddle board should be used, right now you have the basics mastered. The list is endless and contains so many options: sailing, biking, yoga, fishing, or just relaxing on the beach. You may already know what you want to do with your SUP, but trying out new ideas is always fun. SUPs can be used for a range of sports by most extreme paddlers. SereneLife Premium Stand Up Paddle Board is a board that provides the option of playing with different things, with just one board. The board is available on amazon.

It is not only a package with a safety harness, pump, storage bag and paddle, but it is a decent beginner SUP with its big deck.

The deck is 30 inches long, so that you have plenty of space to stretch and relax while you are looking for a yoga SUP.

A waterproof bag ensures that you can carry it to the beach, to the sea to surf, or to the river to run. It’s lightweight to wear with just 19.6 pounds.

It has a triple panel fin for SUP surfers, which allows you to steer the board through surfing.

It has a nice surface for those who want to tour so that some things and a slip deck can be taken with you so that you are kept in the board too.

Strong Float or inflatable?

You don’t really know whether you want an elastic board or a rough board if you start practising paddle boarding.

There’s not much variation in substance, so let’s see first of all what these differences mean.

price. An inflatable SUP is typically the best option for beginners, as these are generally cheaper than epoxy boards.

Carriage. There is a significant gap in the transport of the SUP between the two boards. A roof rack or trailer is required to hold the epoxy board to water. It’s enough light to drive the car to the water once there. You can take an inflable SUP in a trunk or sack of the vehicle, anywhere you go.

Preparation. An epoxy board will be ready to go once the water is reached. An inflatable SUP must first be inflated, and you have to wait until you have done paddling.

Handling. Experienced paddlers note that there is a difference. The epoxy SUP is faster and quicker to navigate on the surface. This is not such a concern for beginners since an inflatable SUP is the best way to experience the sport. It will do everything that an epoxy board would do as well.

THE Pakaloa SUP Stand Up Paddle Board is certainly worth attempting if you want to get the best from both worlds. It can be used for any SUP sport with a width of 32 inches and a length of 11 feet and is known as a hard-board mimicker. That is due to the fact that the PVC is 2nd on the top and bottom, making it stiffer and durable. The extra strength will accommodate people who weigh up to 300lbs. This is ideal for anyone.

There’s a universal fin box that suits race fines up to 10 “and you’re free from additional costs to take full advantage of a good SUP. In addition to the extra performance provided by the extra layer, the inflatable SUP still offers you all the advantages to easily transport and manoeuvre it easily.

Get the machine! Get the machine!

You know what you want – you have to get all the supplies. It does not cost a lot to get going one of the main things about paddle boarding

A paddle

a life jacket

a wet suit

A pump

if the accessories provided are optional:

A travel bag and harness

A paddle holders

A waterproof bag

A belt

A paddle

A waterproof bag

You’ll probably add more components for your sport as you advance, but the 10 Toes 10 ′ Weekend Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Pack, see the new offer! You’ll probably add more accessories to your kit. This, as its name means, is a kit and a decent value for money not only for beginners but for everyone.

This kit includes an inflatable paddleboard with up to 275 pounds, and you can use it for anything at 10 feet long and 30 feet wide. You do get a lightweight paddle to directly enter the water after the SUP is filled with the pump. There are also 3 interchangeable fins, so that you can adjust them to surf or to tour. Really, you all need to enjoy yourself on the water.

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from Paddle Board Rental https://www.paddle-board-rental.com/best-paddle-boards-our-picks-for-beginners/

[josephlrushing]

Last Minute Gifts That Will Arrive Before Christmas

With Christmas just a few days away, chances are you may need a few more gifts but don’t want to risk heading to the mall to stand in long lines. Here are a few products that you should consider checking out that will arrive even earlier than Santa expected.

Nixplay Smart Photo Frame – From $179.99-$349.99

Nixplay’s new Smart Photo Frame, you can display some of your most cherished memories in HD/Full-HD/2K and upload photos instantaneously from anywhere around the world using the Nixplay app (perfect for someone living out of state ?) Since it comes in a variety of sizes and colors, such as sleek black matte, wood, and metal; you’ll never have to worry about matching your loved one’s home décor. And right now, if you order on Amazon by 12/21 you’ll receive the frame by Christmas. Order from Nixplay’s website to get 30% off selected frames (12/16 only)

Polaroid Pop – $199.99

The Polaroid Pop Instant Print Digital Camera features Polaroids patented ZINK Zero ink printing technology, which is a bit of a step up from the original wait-to-dry versions of the past. A digital point-and-shoot camera is a GREAT way to add a bit of flair to your photography and won’t tie you down to your smartphone in order to send and share photos.

MOFT Portable Stand – $24.99

Quite possibly one of the most underrated products on this list is the MOFT. Considered the World’s first invisible laptop stand, it’s an adhesive laptop stand that allows you to position your laptop in two different angles so that you are not hunching over your table or desk when using. It’s also removable, in the event you change laptops often. And if you follow their kickstart, you can get the Moft X series which are stands for your smartphones and tablets that are currently shipping.

Mayde Australia Kirribilli Home Throw – $95

Perfect for a Netflix & Chill night in, the throw is made from a super-luxe lambswool and Turkish cotton blend and will keep you and your honey warm over the cold winter nights while watching your favorite films.

BodyComplete RX “Bossy” – $49.99

A great gift for the lady of fitness in your life, the BOSY is a 2-piece set by BodyComplete that’s stylish, moisture-wicking, and with a soft fabric will be enough to get her through a yoga session or cycling class. My wife has personally raved over all of Xthletics’ apparel, but the Bossy stands out with its Aztec design. She also suggests the “No Basic” style as well.

VividSeats

Concert season if right around the corner, and why not get a family member a gift card from VividSeats so they can take off their headphones and see their favorite artists live? No more sitting on Youtube watching their music videos, now you can see them in person!

Jabra Elite 75t – $179.99

Smaller. Better Fit. Awesome sound. After a few iterations, Jabra has perfected the truly wireless earbud with its latest 75t’s. With a small pocketable case boasts 7.5 hours on a single charge, Bluetooth 5.0, 6mm drivers that deliver a robust round, and if you decide to use them to call relatives over the holidays, the built-in microphone allows for hands-free calls without compromising the audio.

NOSOTROS Tequila – $40

Recognized as the “World’s Best-Tasting Tequila” by San Francisco’s World Spirits competition, Nosotros Tequila Blanco is the missing ingredient in your margaritas for the holiday party.

Gray Whale Gin – $40

Crafted in California, the coastal-inspired gin pairs well with that Christmas flask you planned on getting that dad or grad for the holidays. Also you’ll be helping the environment as every purchase of Gray Whale Gin, a portion of the sales goes to Oceana in order to protect the home of the Pacific gray whale.

RockPort – Varies

No matter who you’re shopping for (even if it’s just for yourself), winter shoes are a necessary evil, and some of the most comfortable shoes that can stylish for every event come from Rockport. From their Men’s Colden Chelsea Boot, to the Total Motion Sport Dress Plain Toe, regardless if it’s casual Friday or a winter wedding Rockport’s got your back. Also a personal recommendation from my wife, she highly suggests the Women’s Cobb Hill Lucinda Back Tie Boots.

  Peel Notebook – $29

If you have a family member who’s constantly jotting down their thoughts, Peel’s Notebook might be the best gift you can give them. Available in plain, rolled or dot grid paper, the minimal notebook will allow your favorite person to do away with countless post-it notes laying everywhere. With a Monochromatic design and a magnetic closure, it’s stylish, self-aligning and no matter who you gift it to will be a gift they can write about how much they enjoy it.

Eufy H11 Hand Vacuum – $44.99

A cordless, light and nimble handheld vacuum, the H11 has a maximum 5500Pa suction power that is great for picking up quick spills in your car or crumbs between your couch. With a 13-minute battery life, it can quickly be charged with tit’s included USB cable, making it the perfect stocking stuffer.

Discommon Watch Wallet 2.0 – $220

Truly a splurge for someone you love, the Watch Wallet by Discommon is ideal for your for watches, but doubles as a great passport holder. The entire wallet is protected with impact protection foam in the event its dropped on those back to back trips across the globe.

CHI Easy Steam – $69.99

Every home needs an iron, even if your clothes promise to be “wrinkle-free”. Not only can the iron perform normal tasks like straightening your linens and wrinkles in your work shirt, but it can also function as a handle-held steamer. With the steamer, you can tackle wrinkles effortlessly without having to press the fabric but if you feel the need to iron, you can simply alter the settings to use the titanium-infused soleplate that will give your clothes a flawless look regardless of the fabric.

PaleBlue Rechargeable Batteries -$24.99 for AAA Batteries & $29.99 for AA Batteries

A revolutionary rechargeable battery, available in both AA and AAA options can quickly charge with an included micro-USB cable in under two hours. Made of lithium polymer, the Pale Blue batteries won’t fail you after 2-3 charges and last longer than standard rechargeable batteries.

PuroBasic Volume Limiting Headphones for Children – $19.99

Specifically designed for kids, the PuroBasic headphones have a limited volume to 85 dB to protect your Childs ears from the media and movies they consume. Recommended by the Hearing Health Foundation, OSHA and the WorldHEalth Foundation, the PuroBasic optimists sound quality at lower volume levels without compromising the content. Made of soft vegan leather, the headphones come in Blue, Green, Red, and Pink, perfect for both girls and boys.

Roku Ultra 4k – $99.99

Delivering brilliant HD, 4k and HDR picture quality, the Roku Ultra is the top of the line Roku experience, with new features such as fast channel launch, personal shortcuts, and mute buttons. The Ultra comes with a set of JBL headphones which are great for listening to your television through the remote without disturbing others. With hundreds of apps in the Roku Store, you can stream to your heart’s content, with everything from Netflix to NBA.tv.

Grovemade Headphone Stand – $120

Great for a desk or even just displaying in your bedroom, the headphone stand by Grovemade is designed not just for audiophiles, but for anyone who hates leaving their headphones in a carrying case. Made of solid hardwood and natural vegetable-tanned leather and stainless steel, the headphone stand is available in maple and walnut.

HydroFlask – $24.95

Regardless if you’re carrying coffee, juice or water, Hydroflask promises to keep your beverage colder (or hotter) for longer. No matter if you like wide mouth or standard mouth water bottles, Hydroflask is durable, can withstand drop or two, can be easily cleaned, dishwasher safe, and come complete with a handle which make it great for carrying. My own personal carry-on water bottle, HydroFlash manages to work with any style with a host of different colors to suit your taste.

ROSEBUD CBD Bath Soak Set – $108

Truly a way to unwind, the soak set by Rosebud includes three bath soaks, each coming with 50mg of full-spectrum CBD made of magnesium-rich Epsom salts with a blend of essentials oils that vary from orange and bergamot, Eucalyptus; Peppermint and Roman Chamomile; or Lavender, Jasmine and Vetiver. Completely Vegan and cruelty-free, the Bath soak set is a perfect gift for anyone who wants to unwind and mend their body.

Purple Harmony Pillow – $159

Purple’s newest pillow might be the most comfortable pillow you’ll ever use. Purple went through 50 prototypes to get the “perfect” pillow, resulting in the world’s first and only pillow with “Purple Grid Hex” that gives the perfect balance of softness, cool sleep temperatures and what they call “No Pressure” support which allows the pillow to keep its shape overnight and over time.

JUMPSMART – $119.99

An award-winning car accessory complete with a portable vehicle jump starter/Flashlight/Power Bank, the JumpSmart can jump start up to an 8-cylinder, 5.0L engine with ease. And don’t worry, if you don’t have a car, as it can jump-start most SUV’s boats, bikes, lawnmowers, ATV’s and more. It comes complete with a 3700 mWh batter that can be recharged over a thousand times, and the flashlight is great at night for changing tires, or just your average daily use.

Be quick as there’s only a few more days until Christmas!

from Joseph Rushing https://geardiary.com/2019/12/16/last-minute-gifts-that-will-arrive-before-christmas/

[outfittrends]

How To Wear Puffer Jacket? 31 Chic Outfits With Puffer Jackets Outfit Trends - Ideas How to Wear & What to Wear

New Post has been published on https://www.outfittrends.com/how-to-wear-puffer-jacket/

How To Wear Puffer Jacket? 31 Chic Outfits With Puffer Jackets

How to Wear Puffer Jackets For Women? Oh the weather outside is frightful, but that doesn’t mean we can’t continue to look delightful (ly fashionable).  Even when its bone-chilling cold with temperatures in the teens (bbbrrrr), many ladies really don’t want to skip fashion for warmth.

But we have very good news – it is possible to wear a puffer jacket and not look frumpy and out of style. Believe it or not, you can look and feel unstoppable in a puffer jacket. According to a recent Boston Globe piece, “Any woman who has shopped for a puffer understands there are tiny style distinctions that take on outsized importance, which sometimes allow a woman to think her coat is — however marginally — cute: The slightest shaping at the waist. A faux fur ruff around the hood. A sophisticated silhouette.“

What To Wear With Puffer Jackets

Here are more than two dozen ways to brave the elements this winter and remain super stylish while wearing a puffer jacket.

↓ 31. Go for the gold!

The Skyler down filled bomber jacket by Sam-NYC is crafted from a densely woven nylon. The surface has been treated to obtain a lacquered look. It is lightweight, yet protective of wind and water, and filled with goose down to achieve warmth and an ultra-soft feel. The jacket features a raccoon fur trimmed hood, center front zip closure with snap placket, 2 lower pockets, a knit waistband, and spandex thumbhole cuffs. This pretty little number will cost you a suggested retail price of $695.00.

↓ 30. Champagne Tastes on a Beer Budget

You can never go wrong in a neutral monochromatic coat, especially one that comes from H&M for as little as $124. Pair with asos high waist jeans, Nike air max thea sneakers, a.p.c geneve bag, and who what wear collection top. You’ll look like a million bucks while barely even trying. And have money left over to splurge on guilty little pleasures, like lattes, all month long.

↓ 29. Living in a Material World

How cool were the 1980’s?! Channelling Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Boy George & Culture Club. Life would be so much better if neon pink could reappear in every decade! This jacket brights up your complexion and turns you into a ray of sunshine. The best part is, it’ll be super easy to identify which coat is yours at the end of the night.

↓ 28. Jewel Tones

Sometimes we just need a break from basic black. Michael Kors understands this and offers this winter coat in rich jewelled hues which can easily be matched to your amethyst and emeralds. Treat yourself to a matching mani too! You’ll sparkle like the precious gem you are.

↓ 27. Go big or go home!

Stay toasty warm from head to toe. This belted “puffy compilation” from Imgur lets you flaunt your tiny waist and not look like a big shapeless blimb. Dress it up with pumps, boots with a kitten heel or keep your feet planted firmly on the ground in a pair of Uggs or fashionable kicks.

↓ 26. Show The World You Have the Winter Blues

The colour blue is having a moment in home décor. Pinterest boards full of cobalt blue kitchens. Fashion follows the interior design. Step out looking boho chic in this warm 90% duck down warm parka quilted coat. Best part if the removable scarf.  On sale for only $125.55 at Boho Gipsy Store.

↓ 25. Sorry, I Wanted to Stay in Bed

For those cold, raw days when you really wish you could stay under your duvet covers, throw on this stunning coat from Add. Changing out of your oh so comfy pyjamas is optional.

↓ 24. Pinkies Up, Dutchess

Let them question if you’re part of the royal family in this majestic purple hooded winter white duck down jacket with natural fox fur collar. It’s even available in plus sizes. They will be shocked if you tell them it’s only $217.27 at AliExpress.

↓ 23. Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Flattery

Wish your closet could be filled with Balenciaga, but worried if you can even afford this month’s rent payment? The Orolay is the thickened $100 down jacket that looks a little bit Balenciaga, a little bit Sacai, and is selling like hotcakes. I spotted three women checking into spin class on the upper east side of Manhattan, New York City this morning. Snag it for only $99 (was $250, now 60% off) at Amazon.

↓ 22. Keep Your Hands in Your Pockets

C’mon, admit it, what girl doesn’t go crazy when they realize their dress has actual pockets?!? The H-line Casual Pockets Hoodie Coat offers front pockets. What a score! Gloves optional. Did we mention this jacket has front pockets?!?

↓ 21. Eye See You

Ward away fromthe evil eye and make sure everyone is watching you closely while prancing through the streets in this very noticeable puffer from Rivaynyc.com | Rivay® Official. Pairs nicely with a classic Chanel bag. The girl who wears this is certainly an “It Girl” wanting to be viewed, admired, appreciated and remembered.

↓ 20. Headed to the Gym

Puffer jackets are the perfect way to winterize athleisure, which continues to be so in style right now. This Aritzia super puff jacket comes in so many different colors options. The key to styling the perfect puffer jacket is to get one that is slightly cropped, because it emphasizes your waistline and creates a feminine silhouette.

↓ 19. Wine Time

Easily a perfect jacket to throw on before a girl’s wine night out or meeting friends at the pub. Pairs well with black pants and heels. It’s practical and unfussy, even if you’re not.

↓ 18. Grading on a Bell Curve

This trusty quilted Alice + Olivia is by far my absolute favorite.  The jacket means serious business both in terms of warmth and sensational style. The bell curve on the hips adds just the perfect amount of flounce and flair. A great pair of shoes is all that’s needed. What’s she’s wearing underneath is meaningless because this detailed jacket screams, “Here comes a fashion plate.” 

↓ 17. Green with Envy

Strut yourself in a big bold emerald green jacket and skinny black stirrups. It’s almost possible to feel the heat radiating off of this classy lady. This seriously could be Meaghan Markle in her pre-Dutchess days. Do you see the resemblance?

↓ 16. It’s a Long Shot

The long puffer is a must-have staple in every female’s closet. It protects you all around, exposing only a tiny portion of your legs. Keep that part of your legs covered in heavy tights or thick wool pants. There’s no better option for those living in a city with lots of precipitation and/or low temperatures. Feel free to take a bold chance on your shoes and accessories since the majority of your body will be covered up the coat. Puffer coat + cropped jeans + ankle boots equals a winning equation every time. Now you do the math. 

↓ 15. If You See a Shiny Penny, Pick it Up…All Day Long You’ll Have Good Luck

Glossy magazines will never be completely out of Vogue. There’s something so rich, luxurious, eye-catching and worthy of shine and that definitely includes shiny nylon down jackets. This is a bespoke shiny/PVC/vinyl down winter coat which is made of high-quality 4-way stretch vinyl. It has an oil slick look with really smooth touch (latex imitation). In a class by itself and not your usual nylon puffer. You may think it looks familiar because it mimics the Moncler style, but is much more glossy.     

↓ 14. Even Runway Models Walk on Paved Streets

An eccentric design could really polish a plain, boring coat. Gigi Hadid provides us with some awesome tips with this bold, sassy and comfy puffer coat. Remember that you don’t have to put too much effort with your other clothing because the coat itself can do the magic. Just like that, you can look effortlessly chic.

↓ 13. Walk as if You are a Painting in a Museum

Patterns can be risky, but there’s just something so beautiful and unique about this White Floral Turtleneck Long Sleeve Coat. Definitely meant for the condifent fashionista who wants to stand out from the crowd and differ from the masses all huddled togethjer in their basic, boring, black winter gear.

↓ 12. Make Love, Not War

This camo puffer jacket from Denim & Supply Ralph Lauren Down Snorkel Jacket is guaranteed to keep you toasty warm. It’s also available in a men’s version, if you want to twin with your mate. Requires nothing more than a chic pair of jeans and rugged combat boots. Spend less time getting ready and much more fun having fun.

↓ 11. You’re Making Me Blush

Puffer jackets with a slim silhouette like this blush pink renew lightweight puffer jacket prove endlessly versatile. Simply toss it on over workout gear on your way to or from the gym, or style it with a sweater and your favorite jeans for the perfect, low-key weekend look. The mock neck collar complements so many different layers, from turtlenecks, to crewneck shirts, to button downs, to hooded sweatshirts. Add a little extra warmth on cooler days by wearing it over a simple cashmere sweater. Pure perfection.

↓ 10. Two Tone

This two tone puffer is so attractive and easy on the eye. Roll up the sleeves for an extra pop of color. I can’t help but wondering if it’s reversible. That would mean two fabulous coats for the price of one!

↓ 9. Mid-Length

Mid-length jackets can be worn by any type of individuals, whether you are a plus size or a petite woman. The length still keeps the whole ensemble more flattering because it provides a complimentary balance. She looks put together in a pair of black leggings, big handbag and eye-catchy boots.

↓ 8. It’s a Cinch

Puffer coats with belts are really attractive and convenient. You can manipulate the comfort and style level by adjusting the belt. This accessory promises that you will never have a hard time finding the perfect fit because the coat itself is adjustable. Zippers and belts are a fantastic combination to lay emphasis on your body.

↓ 7. If you got it, flaunt it!

From the upper to the bottom, you can certainly affirm that this girl knows how to style a puffer coat. The design of the top and the colors of the coat perfectly mesh together. And oh, the flare long jeans were ideal match to the mini short puffer jacket.

↓ 6. Don’t Skirt the Issue

One might wonder: can you pair a puffer jacket with a skirt? Apparently so! (All while keeping your legs warm too!)

↓ 5. Mad for Plaid

Plaid is always current. Bring it out for hayrides and bonfires in the crisp fall weather. Add a red or green scarf for a true festive holiday feel in December. Rest assured, you don’t look like a lumberjack. But you may just get picked up by one.

↓ 4. Got a Problem with the Paparazzi? 

Hmmm, is it possible that the puffer coat has made its comeback courtesy of celebs being spotted in them right before stripping off for red carpet event to get photographed in their revealing dresses? Or, because it’s this jacket they choose to wear when running errands in cold temperatures and hiding from the paparazzi? Well… they’re obviously wearing them for style reasons. 

↓ 3. Don’t Throw Shade at Me

What if I told you all you all need is a great pair of shades to compliment your puffer coat. So stick your chest out a bit more and stay incognito hidden behind a great pair of sunglasses that flatter your face.

↓ 2. Countdown to Spring

Better days are coming. They’re called spring and summer. Let winter know you are breaking up with him. Show him, it’s not you, but I’m gravitating towards warmer weather filled with lilacs and pretty flowers.

↓ 1. Invest in Your Future

If you can afford it, go above the budget and treat yourself to a timeless and classic beauty such as Moncler, Canada Goose, etc. Be vigilant about taking extra good care of it and plan to pass it along to your daughter once she’s grown into it. Because when your daughter covets your clothing, you know you’re a super cool mom! Now if only she could give you her perfect skin.

Bundle up, stay warm and have the best winter ever!

[vacationsoup]

New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/maui-travel-packing-guide/

The Ultimate Maui Travel Packing Guide

I often read posts on Facebook Hawaii & Maui travel groups where the upcoming Maui traveler asks ‘What should I pack for my Maui Trip?”  This can be a tricky question to answer since we all have unique itineraries, travel plans and adventures when we visit Maui. But I think we can all agree that we’re trying to find that perfect balance of packing enough ‘stuff’ but not over-packing and today we’ll go over this with our Maui Travel Packing Guide.

We want to pack for ease of travel (i.e. not getting held up at TSA), not over stuffing our carry-on so that we have to check it, having enough room to bring back a few items and so on.

Let’s have a look at some packing ideas to consider for your upcoming island paradise vacation. I’ll break today’s post down into Essentials, Basics, Optional & Tech/Gear and then add in a few of my favorite TIPS and ideas that I’ve gleaned over my many years of traveling to Maui.

Essentials

Sunglasses & prescription glasses –  if needed, packing your spare prescription glasses is a good idea in the event that you lose yours. If you have polarized sunglasses they really help if you’re floating in the ocean to counteract the glare. A leash is always a good idea. More than once I’ve been glad to have my glasses on a leash!

Reusable Water Bottle – keep empty, once you’re on board have a flight attendant refill it from bottled water (not advisable to drink the ‘tap’ water from the plane). Take to the beach with your favorite beverage. Maui has recently enacted new recycling restrictions and the more you use your reusable bottle, the less trash is put into landfill. Remember everything you throw away on island has to go somewhere.

Swimsuit / Swim trunks – 1 to 3 pair. Having more than one means that if you come in from the beach or pool for a while, you’ll have a dry one to change into if you go back out.

Light jacket/hoodie – Evenings and sunsets can be cool – especially if the breeze has kicked up or if you’re nursing a sunburn. Great if you’re planning a sunset boat tour too!

Proper footwear – such as sneakers, closed toe walking shoes, water shoes or Teva type sandals. Anything you would feel comfy wearing over lava rocks or hiking on a slippery trail in. Teva’s are great for this as they are amphibious and designed just for this purpose.  If you’re not much of  a hiker and plan to be mostly on the beach for your trip, some water shoes (aka Aqua Socks) are great for snorkeling in spots that have lava or rocky entrances. But please don’t walk or step on coral. It’s ‘no pono‘ to step on living coral.

          Reusable/packable shopping bag – the kind that folds into it’s own pocket like Chico Bags do. This will come in very handy for shopping (though we do provide reusable shopping bags in our condo and they can be bought on island at ABC store and just about everywhere.)

    Shorts – I pack between 2 and 3 pair

Tops – 3 or 4, including a few tank tops, and maybe one nice Aloha Wear top. If I’m traveling during the winter on the Mainland, I wear a long sleeve shirt on the plane. I pack it in my carry on for my departing flight so I can change into it on the plane. At times the planes are like a flying ice-box.

Underwear/Bra/socks – eh, take what you feel you need, just remember we offer a washer and dryer as well as a drying rack for delicates.

Pajamas – pack a lightweight pair.

Slippahs – aka Flip Flops or thongs. Essential on the island. You can always buy them in Maui and ‘Locals’ are a favorite brand among those living in the islands. They can be found at Longs and a few other stores. Keep in mind that it’s a custom as well as a gesture of respect on the islands to remove your shoes upon entering someone’s home. You will most likely see plaques and signs in homes reminding you ‘Mahalo for removing your shoes’.

Hat – The intense sun makes this an essential. Wide brims are best! If yours is packable, bring it! But not to worry if you can’t pack it, there are plenty for sale on the island.

Avoid this! Pack light, save time and $$

  Basics

Sarong/Beach cover-up – Great for wearing to and from the beach/pool.  Alternative is to wait until you’re on island and head to the Kalama shopping center (and outdoor market full of various vendors) or ABC stores and purchase a Sarong. I use sarongs as a skirt, a shawl, a towel, a blanket, an impromptu bag and a pillow. They’re very versatile and inexpensive and cover a multitude of needs.

Jeans/pants – One pair, wear them on the plane. You most likely won’t wear them again unless your activity requires it such as horseback riding or heading to the Haleakala summit.

Sundress/Skirts/Nice outfit –  I have a few light sundresses that I like to take, they’re made of rayon type material similar to sarongs and pack up small in my bag. I also take a miniskirt or two. One nice outfit – You’ll want to dress up a bit if you have plans to attend one of the many fabulous luaus or if you have reservations for one of Maui’s higher end restaurants – no need to go over the top – even in dressing up on the island, it’s really pretty casual. In most if not all restaurants Aloha Wear is perfectly appropriate.

Rash Guard – these are great for keeping the intense sun off, snorkeling when the water temperature feels a little cooler. Don’t worry if you don’t have one yet, they sell them all over the island and the big box stores down to the mom & pop shops are sure to have a good supply and better selection than the Mainland.

  Optional & Tech

Headlamp – great to have for late night beach walks or if you do sunset on Sunday at Little Beach.

Camera gear – travel tripod, GoPro accessories for great ocean shots, memory cards, extra battery packs,

Phone charger – Self explanatory. We offer several USB charging stations in our condo to keep all of your electronics powered up but you’ll need your power cord.

Extra Battery Pack – and speaking of powering up. We’ve blown out our phone battery taking videos, pictures, texting beach photos to friends etc. Having one of these inexpensive back up chargers are great! They’ll run you less than $20 on Amazon or elsewhere and are great to keep your music and phone going at the beach.

  Water & sand-proof Cell phone case – if you don’t already own one, they’re sold at ABC stores and it’s wise to have at the beach. I’m pretty low-tech and have been known to just slip my cell phone into a quart sized Ziplock bag. So if you’re low-tech like me pack a few baggies if you’ve got them, they’ll come in handy.

  Binoculars – if it’s whale season (late November through early April) you might want a pair for whale watching from shore or even a boat cruise.

  Backpack-  If you think you’ll be hiking (and there are some world class hikes on Maui) then you’ll want a decent backpack. Nothing fancy is needed but something to carry your gear. If you can, use your backpack as your personal carry-on item.

    Pen – you’ll need one on the plane before you land in Maui. The state of Hawai’i Agriculture Declaration forms are passed out and need to be filled in. If you followed the tip below to not bring in any fresh fruits or vegetables then you check the box stating that you have nothing to declare. Easy peasy. If you’re declaring agricultural items

you’ll need to do your homework before you leave for Hawai’i. Having a pen will streamline the process for you and most likely make you the most popular person in your row since not many others will have a pen handy.

  Neck Pillow – The flight to Maui from the San Francisco bay area is about 5 hours. I do like to nap on the plane so a neck pillow is a savior! Or go double duty – I often travel with an inexpensive cashmere shawl. I picked it up at Macy’s on sale and it’s big enough to act like a blanket on the plane, or I can roll it into a neck pillow. Easy to carry as I just wrap around my neck. When I get to Maui, I just put it in my packable shopping bag and hook it on my carry-on handle.

  Haleakala Summit Visit – This is the one activity on Maui that requires winter clothing. If you’re planning on catching the sunrise at the Haleakala summit (which is 10001 feet in elevation) you’ll need to pack accordingly. On my recent visit, we did the 3 a.m. trek up the crater and I cannot recommend it enough. The things I packed were;

Wool beanie hat

Packable down jacket (the kind that is thin and packs into it’s own pocket, mine actually becomes a neck pillow for the plane so double duty!!

Warm socks

Thin layer of thermal underware

Jeans

Sneakers

I layered up with a tank top under all of my warm clothes and packed a pair of shorts to change into. As we descended the summit after sunrise, I just peeled layers as the temperatures increased.  Expect it to be in the low 40’s for sunrise, or equally as cool if you do sunset trek. Keep in mind that the summit got a nice dusting of snow in February of 2018 so it can be rather cold. I am sure our Canadian guests are laughing at the notion that 40º F (4º C) is cold.

I’ve put together a sweet printable packing list that you can download and print out. Scroll down to the sign-up form to receive our newsletter and we’ll send you the link to download this Maui Packing Checklist. 

  Travel Tips

Here are some Tips that might save you packing space or travel time.

Pack half as many clothes and twice as much money.

TIP-  pack a lightweight pair of shorts, t-shirt and slippahs in your carry-on. About 20 minutes before you land, go change out of your travel clothes and when you land you’ll be dressed for the local weather. I generally wear my jeans on the plane and change into a lightweight mini skirt and tank top. They roll up pretty small in my carry on bag -or- here’s where that packable shopping bag comes in handy, just roll up your jeans, shoes and shirt that you just changed out of and put in the shopping bag, tie to your suitcase after you deplane.

TIP-  Don’t pack bulky clothes. It’s the tropics, lightweight, breathable fabrics are best such as cotton or linen.

TIP-  Pack half as many clothes and twice as much money. I know this is a Hawai’i travel cliché but it’s really true. Each trip I look at what I actually wore vs. what I brought. Almost always half of what I bring never got worn.

TIP-  We’re pleased to offer our guests brand new, en-suite full sized washer and dryer (and free detergent too). You won’t need to bring as many garments when you can toss a load of clothes into the washer every few days.

TIP-  If you find that you have to check luggage and you’re traveling with a partner. We have found that if one person stays and collects the checked bags while watching all the carry-on bags, the other can quickly hop on the rental car shuttle and beat the lines. Renting a car can take up to an hour if there are lines at the counter. Maui moves s..l..o..w compared to the Mainland pace and I know, I’m always itching to get to the condo so I can slip into my swim suit and hit the beach. Then just circle back through the terminal and pick everyone and all the luggage up in your rental car.

TIP-  Getting through TSA quickly and easily. Sounds like an oxymoron I know, but there are things you can do to streamline going through the security checks. First off make sure you only have TSA approved items in your carry-on. If you’re not sure if you can bring it, check the TSA ‘What Can I Bring‘ page.  The latest regulations require removing your electronics including laptop and even iPads now. We provide a starter set of hotel-sized toiletries such as bar soap, shampoo and conditioner if you want to skip bringing liquids and get your shampoo etc on island. All major big box stores can be found on Maui so no worries there.

TIP-  When leaving Maui, ALL FOOD must come out of your carry on. It would be wise to just keep it in a separate bag (you know, that reusable shopping bag I mentioned that you bring earlier in this post) and once you go through TSA you can then pack it in your carry on. This regulation of no food in carry-on luggage is something I’ve only seen in the Maui airport and only just recently. So yep, take those mac nut chocolates and bags of taro chips out of your carry-on until you’re through TSA screening. Additionally, if you’re traveling with any agricultural items check with the Hawai’i Department of Agriculture to make sure that they are allowed and that you declare them when going through the Ag inspection stations.

TIP-  Remember when packing to leave for Maui or any of the Hawai’ian islands. Fresh fruit and vegetables are NOT allowed into Hawai’i – you can make your own meal for the plane containing fruits and veggies but must consume them prior to landing or leave them on the plane. If you forget and deplane with any prohibited food, there is an Amnesty Bin on the right as you exit the waiting/arrival area just before you head down the escalator.

      TIP-  Streamline your carry-on/personal item. The less you pack, the faster it will be when you have to remove and repack at the end of the screening.

TIP-  Before you depart for your vacation, take a serious look at what you’ve packed and then edit ruthlessly. You really will be surprised at what you can do without clothing wise. If you find you’re desperately missing one particular article of clothing, just head to one of the many shops and find yourself a little souvenir clothing.

  Assuming that you’ve followed the other tips mentioned here, you can save yourself some money by not checking luggage. You’ll breeze right to the car rental shuttle and be on your way to the beach.

And also assuming you’ve streamlined your packing down to the bare essentials then you should have room for plenty of souvenirs for friends and family. I generally try to only pack one side of my carry-on bag, leaving the other empty for Chocolate Macadamia nuts and such goodies like that.

  Things you don’t need to pack or buy because we provide them in the condo;

Hair dryer

Vanity Mirror

Iron (we provide both iron and ironing board)

Yoga Mat

Makeup face cloths

Umbrella

Cooler/ice packs

Reusable grocery shopping bags

Beach Towels

Beach Bag

Beach ground cloth (sand free type)

First Aid Kit

Starter pack of toiletries (soap, shampoo etc)

Starter Coffee packet and filters

Dish Soap (not that you would pack this but we do provide it!)

Starter paper products/trash bags

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Looking for more Maui vacation ideas? Lots of things to see and do,

come on over and visit our Local Maui Guide or Maui Events Calendar!

[xoxokadyn-blog]

Nathalie Emmanuel's Style: How to Get Her Actress-Off-Duty Look

This chic star is as fierce as her GoT character.

Welcome to another chapter of my quest to delve deep into the styles of lesser-known icons. (Last time I covered Instagram star Jeanne Damas.)

Believe it or not, most of my style inspiration comes from women who don't work in the fashion industry. Instead, I'm inspired by women who are making a name for themselves in their own realm, be it in acting, sports, music, writing - you get it.This week, I'm drawing from that pool and sharing the greatness that is Nathalie Emmanuel.

A year or two ago, I stumbled upon this photo of Nathalie Emmanuel on Instagram:

View the original article to see embedded media.

At first, I was eager to stalk her page in hopes of finding potential spoilers for GoT. Unfortunately, Nathalie is good at staying mum -- BUT I did notice that she dresses adorably. All. The. Time. And after watching her page gain followers, I appreciate that she has kept her style consistent and hasn't yet allowed a stylist to make her over.

If you don't know who Nathalie is, here is a primer:

She plays Missandei, the dear friend and translator of Daenerys Targaryen on Game of Thrones.

She is a recurring character in the Fast and the Furious movies since Fast 7.

She has been the face of Speedo before

She is also a vegan! (As a fellow vegan, I always get excited to find other vegans since our community is still fairly small.)

She has some of the most envy-inducing skin you'll ever see.

TL;DR: Nathalie is a Game of Thrones actress and brand ambassador living in the UK.

Now that I've planted a seed of interest in your mind, you can reorganize your mood board to fit the newest style inspiration you'll get from her look.

Nathalie Emmanuel's Clothes:

View the original article to see embedded media.

In this cute photo, it's clear that Nathalie's style can be defined as laid back, yet cool.

Sneakers keep the outfit sporty and casual, and the socks make the look quirky.The bomber jacket is cool and on-trend. And is that a super thin choker I see? Yep. That's it. I need to be her friend.

Notice that Nathalie's look is comfortable, sporty, and cozy, yet she's wearing a skirt and dainty jewelry. Theline between all-out girly and tomboy-cool is Nathalie's sweet spot, and I love that!

If this outfit isn't your favorite, I at least recommend you take note of that fabulous color scheme Nathalie has going on. As you'll soon see, Nathalie's fashion color palette is all over the place...and it's GREAT.

Just one more photo here so we can also look at some colder weather inspiration. (This goes out to my girls who live in areas that get cold in fall; I wish I was there with you instead of melting in Texas.)

View the original article to see embedded media.

This look is everything: cool, ladylike and reminiscent of the Dior New-Lookthat swept the runways long ago. What I love is the use of darkness to keep the look streamlined and united. Otherwise, the patterns might not work with the shoes. (By the way, she's wearing head to toe Coach, which - fun fact - I believe costs about the same as my semester tuition. *sobs*).

Once again, the look is interesting, fresh, and quirky, but contains elements of classic looks. And another great lesson we can learn from her in general is that layering is our friend. Can you tell I'm excited for colder weather already?

A capsule collection for Nathalie's wardrobe might look a bit like this:

Denim vest - AE, Sleeveless vest - Missguided, Graphic Tee - UO, Harem pants - Aerie, Utility jacket - AE, Jumper dress - F21, Vinyl skirt - F21, Button up - A&F, Leotard - Capezio via Amazon.

This capsule contains a little bit of everything - mostly layering pieces that can be mixed to your heart's content this fall!

Starting off with the outerwear in this capsule: the jackets and vests can be layered with long sleeves underneath for the transitional weather that's approaching. The graphic tee can be worn with the vinyl skirt and trainers (a look Nathalie wears a lot in her downtime), or with trousers and heels. The bodysuit can be layered, too.

All the pieces can be dressed up or down, and can be adapted for different climates, all while keeping a low-key chic look.

Nathalie Emmanuel's Accessories and Shoes:

Now let's move on and discuss Nathalie's Accessories and Shoes!

View the original article to see embedded media.

In this clear shot, you can spot Nathalie's septum ring, which she has worn for quite some time. If you are keen on emulating her exact look, then I'd suggest looking into a septum ring, because it usually makes a cameo in every outfit of hers.

(FYI: Fake septum rings like this one are available and cheap, so you might want to do a test run that way before committing to a piercing. Just sayin'.)

The rest of her accessories are mostly edgy and a bit boho. Nathalie fluctuates between maximalism and minimalism, occasionally wearing just her septum ring and a thin ring, or going all out and cramming silver rings onto her knuckles.

When it comes to shoes, she prioritizes comfort over everything else. For red carpet occasions and other special days, she'll pull out the heels; but otherwise, it's sneakers and booties.

What I noticed is that she respects the 'busy-ness' level of her outfit. If she is wearing a head to toe patterned look, then she'll keep extras minimal, and vice versa. Remember guys, keep things balanced to nail her vibe.

A capsule of Nathalie's accessories might look like this:

Trucker boots - Missguided, Silver rim glasses - UO, Black heels - F21, Ring set - F21, Choker - UO, Square scarf - F21, Septum ring (fake!) - Miss Selfridge, Tights - F21, Socks - F21, Plaid Scarf - F21, Sunglasses - F21, Bag - F21, Belt - F21, Sneakers - UO.

Nathalie's look is often eclectic, so for shoes I'd suggest to look for sneakers, or sporty types of flats. I can see her wearing a minimal style mule. Comfort is huge, so don't feel limited to these shoes!

For accessories, I included a fake septum ring if you want to take her look more literally. She occasionally wears that small pendant necklace, but more often wears choker necklaces, as shown below:

View the original article to see embedded media.

One thing is for certain - she definitely does not shy away from patterns on her clothing, shoes, and accessories. So don't be afraid to pull out all your funky pieces!

Nathalie Emmanuel's Beauty Routine:

View the original article to see embedded media.

When she isn't filming, Nathalie keeps her beauty routine very natural. And it's obviously working for her!

Okay, this is a little weird to say, but her skin is perhaps the clearest that I have ever seen. I have combed through the internet to find any sort of interview where she gives away the secret to her skin. As of this article's publication, I have not gotten anywhere. I will keep you guys updated!

What I found instead was an interview where she explained what hair products she uses, and I felt this was relevant since curly hair is her signature. Nathalie proudly wears her hair natural on red carpets and on Game of Thrones too - and I absolutely love this choice. Nathalie swears by the brand Deva Curl, which makes a popular "no poo" shampoo.

For makeup, Nathalie is a natural girl most of her time, so a full face of makeup won't happen every day. I'd recommend keeping your brows groomed, since hers frame her face significantly (bushy browed girls unite!). Otherwise, just showing your skin some love and drinking a lot of water should help boost your glow!

As for special events - like dates, dinners, and other events that pop up during college - or red carpets if you're Nathalie - I notice she wears vivid lip colors and keeps her eyes neutral. A few times on Instagram I saw her wear bright coral and red lipsticks, even blue once!

And once in a blue moon, she wears (and totally rocks) blue eyeliner, evidence of which I will leave below since she looks so awesome in it:

View the original article to see embedded media.

A quick peek inside Nathalie's beauty drawer might look a bit like this:

Deva curl - Target, Revlon lip stain - Target, Eyeliner - Ulta, Nail polish - Target, Curling wand - Amazon

To channel Nathalie's look, get yourself some curly hair-friendly hair products and some fierce lip colors. And embrace the natural hair movement if you've got textured hair like hers.

Also look into brightly colored nail polishes and be THAT girl who doesn't give into the vampy colors that come with autumn. WEAR those bright blues and purples! In a sea of shorts and college t-shirts, rock those lively colors that you're shying away from! And imagine me, cheering you on from a distance.

And there you have it!

I hope you enjoyed this in-depth guide to snagging Nathalie's style while also preparing you for the coming fall weather! *Rubs hands together and cackles* I'm so excited for fall and this 'get the look' was too much fun to put together!

Let me know if you decide to take on this eclectic and funky look, and remember to put your own spin on it if you don't feel fully "you".

[sunkissis]

I spent hours researching our trip to the land of fire and ice, one of my highest priorities was taking phenomenal photos. I signed up for a photography class and educated myself about my Nikon camera settings and lenses. I bought a new zoom lens but I needed something that would allow me a wider angle for close up shots. The problem was a $2,500 lens was not in my budget. I was so stoked to find out that Samy’s Camera rents Nikon lenses! I was able to try out different lenses for $25 bucks a day. I fell in love with a wide angle lens and bought a tripod because every person who has traveled to Iceland assured me I would need it to take photos of the Northern Lights. However the lens was large and heavy and along with two other lenses, the tripod, extra batteries, accessories and an external flash (that we never used) there was no way everything would fit into our camera bag. Antz somehow squeezed everything into his suitcase. I had to repack like ten times because my heavy boots didn’t fit and I kept going over the 44 lb weight maximum.

This was just one of the ten outfits I packed. I bought thermal leggings from Amazon and wore layers everyday because even on windy rainy days, I was sweating from all the hiking. I had the hardest time finding the right coat to wear in Iceland. I did not want a puffy coat because they don’t look so great on me and they only come in boring colors. I ended up finding a fantastic white wool coat from Asos on sale for like $73! It was so warm and I was the brightest person in Reykjavik.

  Making it rain in Icelandic Kronas! I found the best currency exchange place located in our new bank in Glendale.

The first day of our trip went surprisingly seamless. I may sound like a broken record but I strongly recommend flying with Wow Airlines. I will say, their gate at LAX was kinda lame and it felt like we walked for miles to get there. However they are a fairly new airline to LAX, so they don’t have a lounge area to wait in yet. Since we arrived so early and didn’t want to stand or sit on the floor for an hour, we waited in the nearby Virgin Atlantic area. Luckily, we saw the Wow crew walking by so we knew it was almost time to board. Other than that, everything was great. We had the sweetest flight attendants (ours looked like Margot Robbie) and the pilots invited Liv into the cockpit when we landed. The plane was clean and the seats had more room in coach than other airlines I’ve flown. There are only two seats for the window row so Antz had to sit across from us in the middle. All flights from Los Angeles arrive in Reykjavik at 4 am so that is something you need to plan for if you are checking into a hotel. We had a full day planned so it worked to our advantage.

Our Uber driver was a little crazy, he followed the weirdest route to LAX which took us on a journey through the back alleys of downtown but we made it on time! LAX is one of my favorite places in Los Angeles. The TSA line is always miserable but there has been improvements on the design of the international terminal.

Once we made it through the lines of agony, we did some pre-flight shopping at Fred Segal. Then we picked up a light breakfast of pastries.

Can someone please buy these for my next trip??!!

Most folks seem to have a problem when it comes to traveling with young kids but honestly, Liv has been our lucky rabbits foot. We get to board the plane first, the flight attendants absolutely love her which gets us perks and she’s a pleasure to travel with. It’s true, the earlier you travel with your kids, the more open-minded and exposed they become.

Fortunately no one sat next to Antz so he had plenty of room to spread out.

I love that we can give our daughter the gift of travel and a proclivity for adventure. As we were flying over Canada, I felt so grateful that we could afford to take this trip instead of putting it off for “one day“.

Liv ate an entire box of rice crispy treats. Don’t forget to pack plenty of snacks and water, nothing on this flight is free!

I waited my whole life to see the incredible Northern Lights. The week before we arrived in Iceland, they had the most vivid and clear Northern Lights in recent history. The government shut down all the lights in Reykjavik so people could view them better. I tracked the weather and the nightly skies on this website everyday until our trip. I slept during most of the flight but I did wake up and happened to look out the window. That sad green smear you see above is the Northern Lights. I tried and failed to take a photo with my rented lens because it was impossible to take a shot while we were moving and the glass from the window wasn’t allowing my camera to auto focus. When I took the photography class I specifically asked about taking photos at night and the key is to use a slow shutter speed, which means using a tripod. Every shot I have seen of the northern lights look like this…

That early morning was the only Northern Lights we were able to see because clouds came in with our flight and obscured the sky for the whole week. The Liz curse strikes again!

You wanna hear another great story? I booked our car rental back in July. I went ahead and splurged on an SUV with a snow package and all the extra insurance I could buy just in case. My friend Christina recommended getting a portable WiFi box so we will have coverage. I also got a navigation system even though the last time I rented a car in London, it didn’t work. So, I was pretty covered for our rental which totaled close to $800 for the week. I was promised to get a BMW X3 SUV or similar. This is what I got and believe me when I say, I acted like a disgusting, entitled American and threw a tantrum when I saw this Opal whatever it is. The chick at the rental place was like, “Bitch…you can walk.” So, here’s my Icelandic $800 pimped out ride. Well, at least it had a heated steering wheel.

The only place to eat that was open at 6am was disappointing Subway. Yet, after a long flight, we were starving so it was good to have something familiar. I got the “Cool American” flavor Doritos. It was insane that the sun doesn’t rise until 9 am. It was pitch black at 8 in the morning.

Guess those snow tires I paid for came in handy. They chilled in the trunk for the whole week. I think I could have been happier with the car if it was white. What color is this, depressing beige?

It was freezing by the time we arrived at the Blue Lagoon. I was worried we wouldn’t be able to enjoy the visit because of how cold it was outside.

The Blue Lagoon was breath-taking. It was cold but once you’re in the water, it’s lovely. Now I was glad I paid for all of our extra luggage because I brought our aqua sock water shoes. Bare feet in public spaces is my phobia! There is an indoor entrance in the water so you don’t have to walk outside in the cold. Kids under 8 are required to wear floaties but the water level was shallow enough for Liv to stand on her tippy toes.

Really, best day ever!! You must bring a GoPro to the lagoon. iPhones won’t cut it.

So surreal, it was so warm and beautiful. And we only had been in Iceland for five hours.

After a quick shower, we were back on the road, headed to our hotel for the first night. I booked the iconic Ion Luxury Hotel for our first night in Iceland because it is located in the middle of nowhere. Like, so much so that they don’t even have an traditional address. Of course, our rental’s navigation system took us an hour out of the way to get there. We were the only car driving on an endless stretch of road so I was pretty nervous we would get lost. Luckily, Iceland has awesome maps on the side of the roads for us clueless tourists. They are so thoughtful. I first read about the impressive hotel when it was featured in Afar magazine. It is known for being one of the best hotels for viewing the Northern Lights. Since it has the word luxury in the name, you know it’s expensive and also sold out even six months in advance. I must have called to make reservations every damn day until finally three weeks before our trip, they found a room for me. I was elated because this meant we could go to their beautiful Northern Lights bar and sit by the floor to ceiling windows to see the Northern Lights. It never occurred to me there would be a week of cloudy skies but we enjoyed our night at the hotel anyway.

This river was boiling hot. Iceland, you so crazy! There is steam coming from power plants all over Iceland. People who live there never have to pay to heat their water. Energy is also dirt cheap because they power mostly everything from steam.

Let me say, this hotel is unique and off the beaten track. It definitely had a James Bond sexy vibe to it. We were told that helicopter belonged to one of the guests, fancy! The Silfra restaurant is so reknown that tourists are bussed in from Reykjavik. We didn’t think to make a reservation since we were staying at the hotel and they almost couldn’t accommodate us.

A cool thing about the water in Iceland, it’s 100% from the natural springs. Iceland has the purest water on the planet so you can actually drink from the shower, the faucets or even the ground. We went to a store and tried to buy bottled water and the woman was like “No, you go to the hotel and fill up your water bottle from the tap!” Honestly, the best water I have ever tasted. It felt nice to take a long hot shower and not feel guilty about a drought.

We arrived at the hotel about noon but our room wasn’t ready yet so we hung out in the lobby. Our jet lag set in and we ended up falling asleep. I know I was snoring! When our room was ready, we had just enough time to change our clothes for our horseback riding tour. We booked a private tour through the hotel so a nice girl named Hannah picked us up and drove us to her family’s farm.

The two hours was over in an instant. It rained lightly but the sun peeked out. The horses were incredible, I was Snapchatting and taking photos most of the time so my horse was like “Ok, lady I guess I’ll control myself.”

When we got back to the hotel, we were starving. Silfra restaurant was packed. The hotel only has 24 rooms but there were booked for dinner. Iceland’s specialty is seafood and lamb but we had amazing sushi too. I used my charm to get us a table even though they require reservations. This was our most expensive meal during the trip.

OMG! This langoustine was heaven. Antz loved his seafood soup. Liv’s burger was meh.

After a quick FaceTime with my BFF, Aimee we went straight to bed. I’m actually relieved the Northern Lights weren’t out that night because it felt like we were awake for 24 hours straight so off to bed we went. It was incredibly hard to wake up early for our next long day.

Iceland Day One I spent hours researching our trip to the land of fire and ice, one of my highest priorities was taking phenomenal photos.