In today’s not-so-pressing issue of the day — when faced with two choices:
a) Writing notes to myself on basic, boring yellow Post-its, or…
b) Writing notes to myself on a sticky note with a picture of a pensive cat in a pink polka-dot head scarf.
Obviously, the only right choice to make here is the second one, because why bother to write things like “RE: Nausea. Remember to put trash bag in the car in case need to vomit on the way to hospital,” or “Find 24-hour diner in SF that delivers banana pancakes” if it isn’t going to look cute when you stick the note on your computer screen?
To quote ‘80s English dynamic duo Wham!, “If you’re going to do it, do it right.”
And doing it right, sticky note-style, means that I’m gonna write reminders on these adorable memo pads from Jetoy USA ($5 each).
Gardening, metaphorically speaking
About the quote on this particular note…
I don’t really have a literal garden at the moment, because my deck garden is looking pretty tow-up these days, and nothing’s growing out there other than a seemingly invincible parsley plant from last spring that absolutely refuses to die. The note is more a food-for-thought thing.
Like, if I’m feeling blue, I re-read it and try to remember that in the metaphorical garden that is my life, there’s a lot of great stuff to look at. It’s tempting sometimes to get caught up on all the weeds, but it’s the fruit, vegetables, trees and flowers in the garden that bring me joy.
Admittedly…that was weird, I know, but it works for me, especially when I’m in a crabby mood, or when I’m feeling aggro and want to pick a fight with El Hub (according to the interwebz, mood swings are pretty common in the third trimester).
This note has been front and center on my computer screen for the past two weeks, and it actually helps.
Dry brushing — otherwise known as sweet, sweet punishment
This Medieval contraption has absolutely nothing to do with gardening…although it kind of looks like a gardening (or punishment) implement, doesn’t it? When El Hub saw me walking around with it, he recoiled, then asked if I was going to beat him with it.
Um, no, babes. Not today. As long as you keep your pregnant wife happy. 🙂
It’s the Earth Therapeutics Purest Palm Body Brush ($9.99), and I used it last night to dry brush for the very first time.
After last week’s enlightening discussion in the comments on the merits of dry brushing, I decided to give it a go for myself.
First, I watched a couple of videos…
Then I went to town! — and it was, um, how shall I put this?
Quite the experience.
I mean, I like a good scrubbing as much as the next person, but on some parts of my skin, like my tummy and my forearms, it felt like I was getting straight-up punished.
I dunno… Maybe it’s because I’m just not used to it yet? I’ve read that it can take time to get accustomed to the sensation. Or, maybe it’s because I’m pregnant, and my skin’s more sensitive than usual? I don’t know, but on some areas, the best I could manage was very light brushing and minimal exfoliation.
*** SPOILER ALERT ***
Heads up! For The Walking Dead fans, if you haven’t seen last Sunday’s episode (and you want to, spoiler free), don’t scroll down any further in this post. OK…that is all.
*** SPOILER ALERT ***
There were, however, parts of my body, like my elbows and heels, where I was able to use it effectively and completely go to town, and those were OH, SO SATISFYING!
It still felt like punishment, but, like…good punishment.
Um…could that have sounded any more 50 Shades? LOL!
Anywho, I got a particularly weird thrill from dry brushing my left elbow, and I swear, that brush removed half an inch of dead skin that had been just sitting there, flapping in the wind.
So gross, but so true.
I’m actually looking forward to doing it again tonight. And tomorrow night, if I’m not in the hospital yet (hurry up, BG!).
Query for you: is it possible to get addicted to dry brushing? I think it might be.
Zombie check-in
OK, so, last Sunday’s episode of The Walking Dead?
Can I just say that it was one of my favorite episodes of all time? And not just because of #Richonne (although that was AWESOMESAUCE and something I’ve wanted to see for a while). More because it was nice to see the characters finally get a break to do some mundane, everyday things, like watching Daryl cringe when Rick put in the CD while they were driving. Sometimes it’s the small, everyday stuff that reminds us that we’re human.
And, you know, it’s only a matter of time before sh*t hits the fan again. I mean, it is The Walking Dead. It’s not Anne of Green Gables.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
Eek, skipped over the The Walking Dead part! As always we run behind here!
Those are the cutest post-its ever. I should write myself messages like that!
As for dry brushing, never tried it. It always looks so, I dunno… painful? Scratchy?
WHAM!! Oh, nostalgia. I’m supposed to be married to George Michael, but we each have different husbands these days!!
No clue why, but before reading, I got teary eyed thinking the post it notes were a pic of BG’s 1st baby book! Where is that little angel?!
Hope you are feeling great, Karen! Going to MISS YOU!!!
Hey Lauren!
I have her baby book tucked away in my hospital bag so that they can put the footprints of her feet. Hmm, maybe I’ll take it out tomorrow to take pictures of it.
Your future niece is taking her sweet, sweet time, apparently. Or maybe she’s camera shy?! Still no big progress on the BG front as of 4 p.m. Pacific time on 2/25. Soon though (I HOPE! I’m starting to feel like I’m going to be pregnant for forever).
This is long overdue, but I’m very excited for your move to Singapore. I know it’s a ways off but I’ve always thought it would be neat to live there. It must be relocating so much, but on the flip side, you’ll get to experience living in so many different places!
I got a good amount of Jetoy stationary even before I discovered they had a US e-store. Yeah I ordered them from Hong Kong the 1st time! I got some sticky notes too, the ones with the arts theme, it’s a pack with sticky notes in different formats, I really love using it!
Oh and did you know that there’s a store in SF Japantown that carries Jetoy? I went there when we visited for Christmas, they didn’t have the whole range but it could be nice to be able to get some stuff locally for you!
Hi Lulle,
I had absolutely NO idea about that store! Do you remember the name? Next time I go to Japantown I’ll have to swing by.
P.S. I’m working from my bed today, and Tabs is keeping me company. Please give Ernesto a chin scratch for me!
The name of the store is Maido, and it’s in that large shopping center where the movie theater is in Japantown, here the address:
11581 Webster Street #260
San Francisco, CA 94115
There are also several beauty stores that sell cool Korean and Japanese brands in that mall, including a Tony Moly store. I got a ton of sheet masks that day, lol (that may have included panda-face masks…).
I’m curious about dry brushing. I’ve read several articles that say it’s great for you’re skin and circulation. I know some celebrities swear by it. I use my round puffy net sponge thingy to exfoliate in the shower everyday. We are all counting down until you’re little bundle of joy makes her debut!!
Hi Denise,
I have friends who absolutely love it. I think if you’re used to a gentler exfoliator, then it helps to do a slow intro, and over time you’ll probably get used to the sensation. At least that’s what I hope.
So, it’s now 4 in the afternoon here in Nor Cal and still no BG! I’m getting so antsy to meet her.
Hope that you’re doing well and that things on your end are good.
I love those kitty notes! Cats make everything better. Good quote too! I like the analogy.
I have heard about dry brushing on a few different blogs. I really need to get a proper brush so I can try it for myself.
TWD – yes, it was nice to have a relatively “normal” episode where people aren’t just fighting to stay alive. Did you watch any new episodes of The X-Files? I have mixed feelings, but I thought the finale was good.
Hi Ruchita,
If you find a dry brush that you like let me know. I’m thinking that maybe if I try other brushes I’ll eventually hit on one that doesn’t feel like punishment. LOL!
I’ve watched quite a few of the new X-Files, but not all of them. Which one was your favorite? I thought the one with the monster who turned into a human.
I liked the monster-turned-human one too. That one was funny! I added the Bernard Jensen’s Body Brush Natural Bristle Brush to my Amazon wishlist. I originally saw it on the blog Wardrobe Oxygen. It looks like it might be a bit more gentle! 🙂
I snagged a tube of the Tree Hut Oatmeal Scrub you mentioned the other day. I haven’t tried it yet, but I’m going to make time for some pampering this weekend. Thanks for the recommendation!
I cracked up throughout the entire episode. Did you catch Mulder in his red skivvies in the motel scene? TOO FUNNY!
Oh, I hope that you like the Scrub. I have to warn you… You might feel like making oatmeal cookies after you use it.
ok, on the dry brushing, we told our patients that it isn’t supposed to be painful. You don’t need a brush (although you if you love that one, it won’t hurt using it- AS LONG AS IT DOESN’T HURT). We would often have patients start with a dry washcloth. You are gently moving the lymphatics, which doesn’t take a lot of pressure. You shouldn’t feel like you have been run through someone’s torture room! I’m sure they already have you elevating your legs, too. I still can’t take more than a washcloth, as lovely as some of the brushes are, but if it is what works, it’s what works. In the mean time, “Baby Watch” continues, lol!
Hi Michelle,
Ahh, great tip! I’ll try all the sensitive spots with a dry washcloth.
Baby watch is still happening! Just a little after 4 p.m. here in Nor Cal and she’s still partying it up in my tum. Come out and play, BG!
I dry brush while waiting for shower to warm up everyday. Its a great way to wake up to. I have the soft bristle plant brush with a long handle and its great for the back.
Have you tried Bob’s Donuts & Pastries in SF? I dont know about the banana pancakes but they have apple fritters and the best raised donuts (glazed, maple glaze and chocolate). You can even get the “Big One” as a major treat. They are open 24 hours. Fresh warm donut is life. ?
Hi HeraKitty,
Mmmm, doughnuts! I haven’t had one in months, which is why I’m fixating on carby things. I bet those apple fritters would hit the spot after having a baby. Maybe I’ll tell my brother to stop by and pick me up a few before he comes to the hospital. 😀
Love the notes! I love having cute supplies and decorations in my cube at work. I have a lot of Pusheen (http://www.pusheen.com/) merchandise!
I used a really gentle brush when I used to do dry body brushing, my skin doesn’t do well with a lot of scrubbing, I get redness and irritation.
By the way, I picked up the L’Oréal EverCrème Cleansing Balm, so good! My hair feels and looks so nice.
Yay, I’m so glad you like it! I was hoping that you would be cool with the scent. It’s not too overwhelming for you, I hope?!
It was the one I liked best of the three scents! It smelled a lot like another L’Oréal shampoo I used to use!
It’s very similar to one they have in their higher end line, Kerastase. Kind of warm and ambery, right?
Yes, and not too strong!
What a fun post, Karen! Love the pink kitty post-its. Definitely worth the $5. I have skipped the Walking Dead, too creepy for me. As far as dry brushing goes, I gave my SO a wood handled, stiff bristled brush to go with the shower gel that I gave him to help end, hopefully, breakouts on his back. I got that brush because it looked more masculine than the blue clear plastic long handled thing with the blue poof at the end. Well, bust my buttons, he thought the bristled, wood brush would be too stiff and hurt his delicate skin, so we exchanged it for the pretty blue poof. Go figure! Spring seems like its on its way though I’m probably jumping the gun, here in Boston. hope you’re feeling well
Hi Allison,
LOL! Too funny about the poof. El Hub likes those too. 🙂
Spring is showing up more and more every day here in Nor Cal. The cherry blossoms are out and the leaves are coming back to the oak trees. I’m so excited!
I like dry brushing, you just have to be careful. I know this is going to sound silly but get a horse brush. A soft one. Trust me.
LOL, I have NO IDEA where to find a horse brush!
You do get used to the dry brushing sensation. Or you just acquire a taste for the punishment? I am not sure. I do enjoy it though.
I tried it again today and it was a little less painful (just a little though).
If I don’t talk to you before it happens, I hope your delivery goes smoothly!
Same to you, Karen. There is nothing much to do but wait, but I keep checking my twitter feed to see if there are any updates from you.
lol…love all the comments as usual. cute kitty notes, I want to order stuff from their site! never heard of dry brushing before you – sounds painful. hope you feel better & have safe delivery, saying prayers, dear.
Thank you, Mary!
I was holding my breath for something awful to happen on The Walking Dead. I’m happy Rick and Michonne are a couple. 🙂 I had a feeling it was going to happen.
Right?! It was so refreshing to see them doing everyday things.
Dry brushing takes some getting used to, but it’s totally addictive, I love it!
I think I’ll get used to it eventually. Until then… punishment! LOL
Oh I tried dry brushing only because Miranda Kerr does it! I followed a video and directions on her Kora Organics site. But it made my skin more irritated. I will try it again, but for now I’ll stick with the loofa. If done correctly, a loofa can be great for your circulation as well.
Notes are great! I put them inside my desk drawer (at work)to remind me of positive thoughts. Otherwise my fellow coworkers would definitely make fun of me.
I’ll check out that video, Sakura! What type of brush did you use, by the way?
Hi Karen! The video(s) that I initially watched were those on the Bodecare website, which were linked to the Kora web-site, but the one that I found the most useful was this one:
https://youtu.be/oSykhl8oqk8 (Mio Dry Body Brushing)
The brush I bought on Amazon. (Bodecare Jute Dry Face Brush Soft Bristle) I use it for my body not face.
The Kora Organics blog was useful in giving tips. http://www.koraorganics.com/us/blog/the-benefits-of-dry-body-brushing/
You’ve inspired me to go home an try it again! I think that I pushed too hard the first time. I like the video above from Joyous Health. I like her circular technique. I think that it may help prevent from applying too much pressure.
Happy dry brushing and have a lovely day!
Dry brushing is the best habit to get into next to drinking lots of water. My yoga teacher’s ex-friend was a hardcore dry brusher and her skin literally glowed. She dry brushed every day before showering and then followed up with some ayurvedic oil. She used a brush I’m pretty sure. I think you should get a different device. That paddle you have looks painful.
It’s fine on thicker parts of skin but on sensitive areas… yowza! I’m going to go shopping around for another one; if I find something cool I’ll let you know!
P.S. What type of yoga do you practice?
I started seven years ago doing Anusara but then there was a big scandal with the founder and my teacher left that school of yoga. I’ve done Iyengar, which is similar and I like a lot.
I think you’d like any type of hatha yoga really.
Find a local teacher you enjoy, I would think Novato would be teeming with them. But, until then, check out http://yogabycandace.com/yoga-videos/ She’s really great and I recommend her app. And the premium subscription–a whopping $1.99 a month brings you exclusive content weekly, either a video, a tip, a quote or a meditation.
Man! I was hoping that baby girl was here already! 🙂 I’m so happy and excited for you! You are going to be a wonderful mother! You are just amazing, I’ve been reading your blog for years, and you’re such an inspiration. I wish you all the best, I know you’ll do great! Lots of love <3
You and me both, Savannah! LOL. 🙂 Thank you for reading the blog all of these years, and thanks for the well wishes and encouragement. I’m hoping that you’ll get to meet BG soon… fingers and toes crossed.
Happy (almost) Friday!
Ohhhhh, Noooooo I didn’t stop at the spoiler alert; I haven’t watched a single episode of this seasons the walking dead! Wahhhhh!
I’m Your Man was a staple on my workout playlist for YEARS. Love it. 🙂 I haven’t dry brushed but maybe your sensitive areas just need a more gentle bristle. I sort of feel like the dryness would give me the heebie jeebies but I could certainly use the exfoliation.
I like Rick and Michonne, too. I know they’re professional actors but it has to be hard to go from “friends for years” to “make out”, seemingly out of nowhere. I think their chemistry will improve with time. Assuming they both have time…. 🙂
PS That hearty parsley is something else. It’s not only surviving, it’s very green. Maybe it’s ZOMBIE parsley? HAHA!
PPS I know you’re ready for BG to evacuate the dance floor but I’m sort of hoping for March. She’s already a Pisces, which I’m totally on board with, but I’m also partial to March. 😉
Those kitty sticky notes look like a worthy investment. I might pay more attention to self reminders and motivational blips if they were printed on those. lol
Also, all this talk of banana pancakes and apple fritters in the comments here has got my stomach rumbling. I hope you are able to find the perfect post-delivery treat for when BG finally arrives!
Dry brushing is supposed to be really good.
I haven’t done it because….. I know it sounds crazy but I don’t want my skin-dust all over. :/ i prefer exfoliating with water and scrubs.
Dry brushing is great, but takes too long and I’m always running late. I could also use a brush like the Joyous girl, looks really comfy.
Ahhh I had to scroll fast to get past the Walking Dead stuff but I did see the picture and I don’t know how to feel about that yet. I got lost somewhere in the first half of the season so I need to re-watch that before getting caught up on the new episodes.
But on to beauty. I love dry brushing but I’m also pretty lazy so I tend to forget most of the time. I recently had an allergic reaction to something and had a terrible breakout on my upper arms so I think getting back into dry brushing could help clear that up.
As for the sticky notes, I hear ya on the boring yellow ones. I have lots of different shapes and colours in my office and the guys I work with are constantly coming to ask me for a sticky. I think they prefer the pretty ones too but just won’t admit it!
Hope you’re feeling well in these last days (or maybe hours) before BG comes!!!