Jenn Hildebrand

New Year, New Blog

Did you miss me? Because I sure did.

It has been way too long since I’ve taken a seat at my computer, glasses on and fingers ready to write. Over the last little while, I became too busy with life, work, and obligations that I lost track of one thing I’m passionate about… and that’s writing. It felt like after the craziness that was this last year, there was no better time than now to get back into it.

When I thought about what I wanted to share on here, I knew I wanted to kick off my sneaky return with a hello world, here’s what’s happened over the last bit. So – here goes nothing.

5 things that happened to me since we talked last:

  1. I moved house. Yes – you heard me right. I finally took the plunge and moved out of my parents and into a itty bitty, super tiny studio apartment in East Vancouver. This has been a dream of mine for a while now. A goal I had set for myself a few years ago and one that I stared wistfully at, at every New Years Eve. “Will this be my year?” was a question I continuously asked and who would have thunk that it would take a pandemic for me to get out. (Which, might I add, I don’t recommend… moving in the midst of a pandemic is seriously a struggle) I can’t wait to share with you (the one or two readers I probably have) what my space looks like! Keep an eye out for that.
  2. My depression and anxiety heightened. Oh BOY did it get to me. I think, once again, it was because of the WORLDWIDE PANDEMIC that my mental health took a turn. I had been temporarily laid off from one of my jobs and was faced with a truckload of extra work at my other. I’m not complaining about the work, because it challenged me creatively that I don’t think I would have done otherwise. But I started to feel overwhelmed… drained… and quite frankly, burnt out. My boundaries were limited and I felt the creeping of panic seep into every inch of my bones. After a tearful phone call to my doctor, I was placed back on medication which that in itself was a hard pill to swallow (pun most definitely intended). However, I know that it was for the best because I now don’t feel like crying every five minutes. So… that’s a bonus.
  3. Speaking of mental health – I started to see a counsellor. A therapist if you will. She has been helping me navigate towards my trauma. As well as helping me release the burdens I’ve placed on myself that I didn’t realize I had. It’s been challenging but eye opening and quite frankly… healing. If there is one thing I definitely 10/10 would recommend to anyone that is thinking about it, is to go seek a counsellor. Even if you don’t think you “need to see one”, there are SO many benefits of talking to another person who doesn’t know you personally. They see things that you and your loved ones may be too blinded to notice.
  4. I’m still very single but loving every moment of it. I experienced some major heartbreak and cried over a boy – something I didn’t think I would do. But I know that it was meant to happen… because the experience has taught me the value of trusting your gut and to allow yourself to become vulnerable with another human. When I tell you just how much I dislike vulnerability… but in a sick, twisted way, I’m glad it happened. Because I know what I need in a relationship and what I can offer too. I also really really like being single. HOWEVER, if a cute guy who can dance and cook just so happens to want to take me out… I wouldn’t be completely opposed to the idea.
  5. Lastly, I lost my Instagram account. This was probably one of the weirdest things to happen to me this year haha… One minute it’s my birthday and I’m posting a story about my delicious latte… the next minute, Insta is telling me I can’t get back in. I do hope to get that back soon but until then, I really, really want to start blogging more. As I had mentioned earlier, I really miss the creative outlet that owning a blog has. I know for a lot of bloggers, they use it as a way to grow audiences and create content and maybe even make a buck or two. And as much as I would love to do that, my main goal is to create content that I LOVE and if nobody looks and reads it, that’s totally okay. Because I want to do this for me. Minus the unrealistic expectations and the desire for everything to be perfect. And hopefully my Instagram will come back so we can have double the content fun!

So as 2021 approaches, I hope that you will follow along with me as I ramble on about cute clothes, mental health and maybe even a fun project or two.

I hope you’ll join me!

J.

The Sweater You Need This Winter

Hands up if you love blankets? Cool! Me too. Hands up if you love sweaters that FEEL like blankets? Oh look! Same!

I found this cozy sweater at Oak and Fort not too long ago. I was searching the racks for a gift for my brother and thought “I’ll do a little browse for myself.” And let me tell you – the moment I saw it, I knew it was love.

It’s an olive colour and feels like a blanket with arms. It’s also long and slightly oversized which means it’s the definition of a cozy winter jumper.

HOW I STYLE IT –

I’ve paired this with a pair of black skinnies and black chelsea boots giving it a laid back but still put together feel. For jewelry I added my go-to aromatherapy necklace (it’s yellow gold and has a quartz pendant) from Saje Natural Wellness.

On a completely different note, HOW is it almost Christmas? I fell like it was just yesterday that I had stat down at my computer to type up my “New Year, Same Jenn” blog post. And NOW it’s almost 2019! It boggles my mind how quickly the time goes. Are you all set for Christmas?

I already know that I’ll be wearing this sweater at Christmas dinner. It’s too cozy not to! 

How To Style: Wide Leg Jeans

OH MAN! If someone would have told me that I’d really dig wide leg jeans I would have said you’re crazy. There is no way I’m moving away from my comfortable skinny jeans. Well, I’m now eating my words because I really, really, REALLY dig these New Look jeans.

I picked these jeans up over the summer on a whim. It was close to midnight and I was scrolling through ASOS – as one does. On the model they were cropped- but because I’m standing at 5’3 they’re not quite cropped on me. But because they do have a raw hem, I could trim them easily if I want.

How I like to style them…

Because they’re not fitted jeans – and are REALLY high waisted, I like to tuck in a tank top and then a loose cardigan to give it a super relaxed vibe.

For accessories, I normally throw on a long necklace and then a belt… and for shoes, I either opt for a pair of sandals OR I’ll throw on some white tube socks and a pair of sneakers. I’m all about socks and sneakers these days…

Stepping out of your comfort zone when it comes to fashion can be daunting. But once you get over the “I don’t think I can pull it off” bump and realize that you CAN pull it off, you’ll be so happy you did.

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What’s one fashion trend you’re scared to try? Let me know!

J. x

27.

Twenty Seven.

Here’s to a new year.

Twenty six can be concluded as a year of growth – emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and unfortunately not physically. (A girl can only dream of what it’d be like to be 5’4 *sigh*).

Things that happened this year:

  • got a new job (YAY!)
  • made some new, super rad friends who are crazy empowering, loving, and encouraging
  • was introduced to the Land of Eyelash Extensions (I’ve been made their Queen)
  • went vegan
  • then decided that I love smoked salmon too much and instead chose the pescetarian life (sorry Nemo)
  • tried to date… LOL key word tried
  • chopped my hair
  • dyed my hair
  • dyed my hair again
  • BROKE MY ARM (I still can’t believe that happened…)
  • grew closer to God – this has been so important for me…
  • learned more about my own calling in life and ministry
  • stepped out of my comfort zone SO many times (and something I don’t mind sharing more about if you’re interested)
  • discovered that I can cook semi decently
  • can count on my hands the number of panic attacks – which is major progress
  • joined a gym (YUP… me… a gym…)
  • and saw Harry Styles in concert (BLESSINGS)

Twenty six was something else.

But going into twenty seven, I’m excited for what’s to come.

Here’s to a year of more awkwardness, more selfies, laughter, food, travelling, friendship, love, concerts, and growth.

Here’s to a new year.

*photo credit: Cally Petersen Photography

Winter Skin Care Routine (’17)

Starting of #blogmas with something I’ve been asked a lot lately- my go to skin care routine. I’ve been super lucky (aka, blessed) to have reasonably unproblematic skin. I think the biggest factor to that being the amount of water I drink. I try to drink at least a litre of water a day to try and stay hydrated. I also love to moisturize like crazy. But, I also try to be diligent with my skin care and actually wash it.

So, with that being said, here are my current skin care picks:

Cleanser: My ride or die for skin cleansers is normally the REN cleansing milk… but lately I’ve been trying out the Saje Zen Cleanse. I started working at a local Saje store and figured it might be a good idea to try out their skin care products. And I must admit, the Zen cleanse is a pretty close second to my trusty REN cleansing milk. It’s super gentle on the face. It’s 100% natural. It’s made with avocado… and I love it.

Toner:  Rose Mist by Saje has been my new favourite find. It’s only made with water and rose oil. Rose is SO good for your face. It’s incredibly hydrating and what I love about this product is that I can use it as a final “toner” after I’ve finished my skin care routine AND I can also use it on top of my make up to bring  a bit of extra hydration. Win-Win.

Moisturizer: My skin is like the sahara desert in the winter time. I have flaky dry patches around my nose and along my scalp. I think most of it is due to my own health issues (yay bad thyroid… not), but I think it’s also because of the weather change. I’ve been using a BioDerma Hydrabio Moisturizing Serum. I love it. It’s not your typical serum meaning it’s not liquid-y. It’s thick and leaving my skin feeling extra moisturized. I love to use this under my makeup too and I’ve noticed that it lasts a lot longer with it on. It’s also great if you have super dehydrated skin like myself.

Eye Cream: Kiels Midnight Recovery eye cream has been my current find in terms of eye treatment. I never really know what the eye cream is doing to my skin, but I have noticed that my concealer has been applying better since using an eye cream. So – I’ll take it!

Night Cream: LiftActiv Supreme Night by Vichy was gifted to me by my mom after she realized it wasn’t doing much for her own skin. I have found it to be wonderful for myself. I love night creams and I wake up the next day with soft skin – so.. obviously that means I love the product more.

These are my current go to winter skin care products. I’m curious to hear what some of yours are?

J. xx

10 Christmassy Goals

It’s hard to believe that November is coming to an end. With December right around the corner, that means we’re closer to Christmas. If you know me, you know I’m big on Christmas. I love love love the holidays! But something I noticed is that every year I come up with a mental list of things of I want to do (with friends, family, or by myself) and never follow through with it.

SO! This year, I decided to write them all out, throw in out into the web-iverse, and actually accomplish some.

2017 Christmassy Goals…

  1. Go to a Christmas Market – Every single year my bestie and I talk about going to the Christmas market that happens in Vancouver. We always say we will, try to make the plan, but end up not going. But this year I want to actually do it. Christmas markets have vendors who sell all things holiday (gift giving ideas??), yummy food, and all the hot apple cider you can drink. What could be more festive than that?
  2. Buy a REAL Christmas Tree – I still live at home (it’s not uncommon for 20-somethings to live at home OKAY?!), and last year the fam and I decided to ditch the fake tree and buy a real one. We are going to definitely do it again this year (followed by decorating, hot chocolate, and christmas music!). There’s nothing more festive than the smell of a real christmas tree.
  3. Ride a Christmas train – My little nephew, his parents (my besties), and I normally go to the pumpkin patch every year… however, this year we decided to switch it up and go to the Stanley Park (Vancouver) Christmas train. I’m mostly adding this to my list so I can have an excuse to look at beautiful lights and snuggle my nephew.
  4. Finish all my Christmas shopping EARLY – Tbh, I’m doing really well with this. It’s mid-November as I write this and I’m proud to say I’m almost done. The plan is to have all my gifts bought and wrapped by the first week of December so it’s out of the way and I don’t have to do any last minute Christmas shopping.
  5. Watch all the Christmas movies – I love Christmas movies and every year I plan which ones I want to watch and never follow through with it. My mom and I are suckers for a good Hallmark Christmas movie so this year we plan on DVR-ing all the good ones with the addition of the classics (Love Actually, The Holiday, etc).
  6. Take a Picture with Santa – You’re never too old to see Santa… and did you know you can take a picture with Santa AND your dog? Yup! My 4 year old German Shepherd and I have done it for the last two years and you betcha we’re going to do it again this year!
  7. Catch a Christmas Show – I can’t remember the last time I’ve been to the theatre, but I want to see the Nutcracker this year!
  8. Send Christmas Cards – We’ve kinda lost touch with how meaningful sending a Christmas card can be, what with the internet and e-cards. So I want to bring that back and send them to my friends. Plus, everyone loves getting mail!
  9. Take in every minute  – It’s SO easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. This year, I want to take in every minute of it… to not get lost in the business of the holidays, and to enjoy. I want to turn off my phone and be present, especially when I’m with my family. These moments are precious and I think it’s so easy to get lose track of it in such a fast paced society.
  10. Remember the reason for the season – Christmas isn’t just about the beautiful lights, spending time with family, or catching a Christmas show. Yeah it’s fun and there’s totally nothing wrong with it! The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, cherished and spent with those you love. But –  It’s also about Christ. It’s about his birth and why he was born – to save us. I want to appreciate that… and ultimately praise God for sending his Son.

What are some of your Christmas goals?

J. xx

How to Staycation

*Disclaimer: There are items that have been provided by PinkBlush since I am an ambassador, but all opinions are of my own. As well, I have not been sponsored by Hotwire nor have I been sponsored by the Hyatt. These are my own opinions. 

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This past week I had taken off work because it was, well, my birthday week! And I’m the kind of lady that likes to take at least my birthday off. But luckily this year, with the way that my schedule had been, I was able to take the following week off too. This meant a little fun Staycation with one of my besties. Staycations are fantastic! Honestly, everyone should take some time to enjoy their own city. I’m super blessed to be able to call Vancouver my home and very rarely do I get to enjoy the city.

With the help of Hotwire – a travel website where you can save money when booking (up to 70% off), we were able to book the Hyatt Regency. One thing to note when booking a hotel, you don’t know the name of the hotel which you are booking until after your payment is made. The only info you’re given is in what district/city it’s in, the number of stars it’s been rated, and the discounted price. I love the anticipation that’s built up before you book a hotel and the little surprise you get once you find out where you’re staying!

Review – The Hyatt itself is a great hotel – the rooms are super clean, the staff are friendly, and they even have an outdoor pool and hot tub! Plus with it being in the heart of downtown, we were walking distance to great shops and restaurants.

What to Pack – When packing for a staycation, my biggest piece of advice is to pack light. I stuck to the essentials – travel makeup, toiletries, pajamas, and an outfit to change into the next day. I kept it simple with only packing a change of shirt (I wore black jeans the day before) and my favourite shoes.

My favourite piece of clothing that I brought is this GORGEOUS kimono from PinkBlush. It’s thick enough to keep me decently warm at night when we went out, and its light enough to throw on over any outfit. The best part is the gorgeous colour which brightens up any dull, simple outfit (Like the one I wore – black skinny jeans from Topshop and a black tank top from Forever21 Plus)…and I finished it up with a pair of loafers (that I’m obsessed with at the moment!).

Last but not least, when having a Staycation, enjoy yourself! Look up restaurants that you have never ate at before. Wear the hotel robes. Order room service. Open a bottle of champagne with some of your friends and pamper yourself. Whatever you do, be sure to have fun! That’s the most important part of any staycation.

Tell me – what’s your favourite thing to do on a Staycation?

J.xx

 

Let’s Style: Tunics (+ GIVEAWAY)

When I started planning out what direction I wanted my blog to go, I knew I wanted to talk more about fashion (especially fashion for short, plus size ladies like myself)! SO!! I knew I wanted to start a fashion series called: Let’s Style. I will be choosing some of my FAVE pieces in my wardrobe and show you how I love to style it.

OK! Let’s get started with this GORGEOUS (seriously,  look how pretty these flowers are) tunic from Pinkblush Materinity (Plus size line). If you’re not pregnant, don’t fret (neither am I)-  because it’s not just for mama’s or soon to be mamas. They also carry straight and plus sizes.

What I love about this tunic is how flowy and light it is. Since my height falls under the 5’3 spectrum, it turned out to be more of a dress on me. I paired it with some chambray shorts (underneath the tunic) since it’s still a LITTLE bit short to be considered a dress.  The quality of the tunic is wonderful. It is definitely good quality! It does run on the bigger size (even for plus), so I would probably size down.  This little outfit I think is perfect for the spring-summer months and would look SUPER cute at a wedding.

For accessories, I kept it simple. I didn’t want to take away from the gorge floral pattern. For shoes I wore these Payless brown cut out, open toe sandals. They have a short, block heel so they’re super comfortable. I then wore gold stud earrings that I bought at a local boutique. The shorts (that are underneath) are from Ever New Melbourne last season.

I will definitely be wearing this outfit loads this summer!

(Ps. How CUTE is my dog Bailey??)

Now for the exciting part…

GIVEAWAY TIME!!

PinkBlush were absolute dolls and have teamed up with me to give one lucky lady a $50 Gift Card. Head on over to my instagram post  to learn more!

 

Winning Winter Lips

Ok! Winter is almost here and I am so excited to pull out my favourite winter lipsticks. Sure – autumn and winter are practically twins when it comes to their chosen shade of red, there’s something about December that screams burgundies and plums. Alright, alright… I know the reason. It’s because December means Christmas and Christmas means Christmas parties and Christmas parties mean dazzling dresses and fun makeup… and so on and so forth. I think you get the picture.

Anyways!

I am a lipstick hoarder. It’s actually a problem. I should probably seek counselling or join a lipstick anonymous group. Either way, I’ve accepted it.  But even tho I can supply enough lipsticks for all the Victoria Secret models (Am I the only one excited for the fashion show to air??!), I found a few that stand out in particular. These are my absolute faves.

MAC Satin Lipstick in “Rebel” ($21)

This is my go-to lipstick for the past couple of years. I’m obsessed with this colour! It is a cream plum that isn’t too dark that you feel like everyone is staring at you, but just dark enough that you feel like you’re rebelling against nude lipstick. I love to pair this with eyeliner, a black fuzzy cardigan, and some black ankle boots.

RIMMEL LONDON (KATE) lipstick in “107” ($8)

When I want to wear an easy burgundy lip, I will grab my Kate Moss lipstick. Not only is it on the cheaper end, but the quality in colour and consistency is heavenly. I’ve recommended this lipstick to a few friends, and even convinced one to buy it for herself. Plus, I find that it’s really easy to apply this colour as opposed to some of my deep burgundy liquid lipsticks.

TANYA BURR COSMETICS lipstick in “Big Kiss” ($13)

It’s very rare that I purchase products by Youtubers or other bloggers… but if there’s one blogger that I always support, it’s Tanya Burr. I think it’s mostly because I want to be her BFF and bake all the sweets with her, but really it’s because I love the products she puts out. When I was in London back in July, I looked everywhere for her makeup. I don’t know if I was at the wrong drugstores, or if they were sold out, but I had a hard time searching. But then I learnt that I can order them online at FeelUnique – an online shop that ships to Canada. I picked up this lipstick as well as another in a coral shade, a couple of her lipsticks, and a set of false eyelashes. I must say, I love this colour! The packaging is to die for and this is the prettiest shade of red. Highly recommend!

These are a few of my favourite lipsticks for winter. I have a couple liquid lipsticks that I’m also loving at the moment. If you’d like to see a post on that, please let me know in the comments!

J. xx

       

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