Coffee & Chit Chat: February

Hey you! I hope you had an excellent weekend, and an even better February. As the month draws to a close, I thought I'd share my thoughts with you in a monthly vlog called Coffee & Chit Chat. This gives you a chance to learn a little more about me. Enjoy!

Can't see the video above?

Click to watch the video at my YouTube Channel!

Topics Discussed:

• Why I am PRO Valentine's Day
• Coffee of the Month
• A Beauty DIY recipe
• Disney World
• Dermalogica Event
• The Atl Weather Report
• 2 beauty products: Love It or Leave It
• SPECIAL guest

The world's cutest co-star, amIright?

Current Giveaways:

• $1000 giftcard giveaway from Suave (ends FRIDAY)
• $1000 Target giftcard giveaway (ends FRIDAY)
• ONE FREE YEAR to MoviePass (ENDS THURSDAY)

Reader Request Week: Q&A With ElleSees

Hey you! I had such a sweet and positive response to the first video that I decided to do another one. I'm thinking about making this a weekly thing. What do you think? I admit I wasn't feeling too hot in this one, so it's not as entertaining, but learning from my video mistakes and getting comfortable in front of the camera is what it's all about.

One of the possible entries in my $75 Sephora Giveaway is to ask me a question. I randomly chose 13 of them and made a video, so check to see if your question was answered! Enjoy!

Highlights:

• Me, being awkward as usual
• The Southern Accent Returns!
• Charlie, who was asleep most of the video
• The fact that I found an almond in my bra after filming (what the??)

I'm off to Waycross to see my youngest sister perform in her high school's version of Grease! I'll be back Monday with more tutorials and tricks. Have a great weekend. Be safe, behave, and be well. Love, Elle

PS: If you really want your question answered, or if you can't understand my accent, let me know in the comments. Thanks for watching!

How To: "Just Bitten" Lips

I have three posts lined up for today, including this post from the past, so please be sure to scroll down and check them all out!

Lip stains have gained a big following within the past couple of years, and for good reason. These products promise long-wearing, kiss-proof action. Who doesn't want that? A favorite drugstore brand is the Just Bitten line from Revlon. The stain features a marker-like applicator as well as a balm. 

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When I tried the Just Bitten line, I would always sneeze (for some odd reason), I found the product drying, and that the color didn't last long. I knew there had to be a way to achieve that "just bitten" lip look using what I already had in my makeup collection. Here's my super easy tip for how I do it at home:

Pretty simple, right? And this is very easy on the budget, since you likely have everything already. Since so many of you are into natural-looking makeup, give this a try. Additionally, you can use shades that you like or that are complimentary to your skin tone.

Do you like the Just Bitten line (or any lip stain)? Would you try this technique? 

PS: I posted three times today, so I hope you find a post (or more) that you might like!

What Elle Sees: On Body Issues

{Profile purposely blurred}

Normally, I fill this blog with all things beauty, style, tips, and the like. But today I wanted to share an experience....my experience (it's a lifestyle blog, after all) so I hope you'll indulge me for just a bit. This is very personal and very hard for me to talk about (hence the fact it took me a week). In fact, minus a couple of people, I don't think I've ever talked about this with anyone. I'm not doing this for sympathy or a pity party. I just want to share what happened and see if you've had similar experiences.

So here goes. I was in Target a week ago studying the different sulfate-free shampoos (a must for dyed hair, btw). I paid no attention at the old lady who walked down the aisle until she began studying me.

"You know, you'd be pretty if you had your nose fixed."

My heart stopped for a second as she said that. My mind began to race with thoughts: Was she talking to me? Do I cry? Scream? Should I say something back? Cuss her out? But she's old! I was brought up to respect my elders. But she was RUDE! Thanks, lady for reminding me what I've heard about nearly my WHOLE LIFE. Don't you think I'd do something about it if I could? Instead, her words translated into "You're ugly."

I decided not to say anything back because I (a)knew I'd start crying (b)didn't want to give her the satisfaction of knowing she'd hurt my feelings. So I walked away (shampoo-less) and acted like I didn't hear her. Instead, I fought back tears and thought of childhood:

{Left: Lil Elle, Age 4}

My family has always been great (I know some who are not so lucky) and has never really mentioned my nose.  I had no idea that my nose was big or that I was ugly until fifth grade. Two boys were talking about me on the school bus. "What do you think about Elle? Would you go with her?" "NO! She's got a big nose! A rocket nose!" And then the ENTIRE BUS began to chant "rocket nose." I wanted to die. I was THAT girl--the ugly girl with the big nose. Luckily, I wasn't taunted daily or anything, but I did hear about my nose over the years. I'd hear comments that I'd "grow into" my nose. Or asked if I broke my nose, fell, or had an accident or something (Not that I recall.).  Even on Picture Day, the photographers would consult each other as if I wasn't there: "Turn her head this way. Move her chin down so we can hide that nose. Have her look over here. No, no never a side profile!"

In my twenties, I decided to not let it bother me anymore. I embraced my nose. I ignored the stares and whispers. I let rude comments from drunken guys roll off my back. I was this way for years until that day at Target. So now a week later, the self-consciousness about my nose is still a tiny seed in the back of my mind. I wonder if I should've handled the situation differently (aka cuss her out!) and stuck up for myself. Maybe. Will I ever be confident and comfortable with my nose? Maybe. But would I get my nose fixed if I could afford it? Definitely.


Share your experiences with body issues. Have you experienced what I have? How did you handle the situation?

From the Elle Files: I'm a Product Hoarder

Happy Monday, loveys. How was your weekend? Mine wasn't too shabby--filled with visits from my sisters, nephew, and a tequila tasting--details this week on that. I hope y'all enjoyed Beach Week last week. I posted lots of stuff, so I'm sure you missed a post or two. And now onto something from the Elle's Embarrassment Files: I'm a Product Hoarder!

{Hello. I'm Elle and I'm addicted to Sunsilk Straighten Up. There, I said it.}

What you see above is my personal stash of Sunsilk's Straighten Up and I'm totally embarrassed I'm showing this to all three of you The Internet! No, I'm not an Extreme Couponer. I'm a Product Hoarder. Please tell me I'm not the only one! Please?

Ever find a beauty product that is THE ONE? It could be makeup or a hair product that you cannot live without. You use it faithfully and always have great results. You receive compliments when you use THE ONE. And then, BAM, you get word that THE ONE has met its demise. That perfect shade of peach or that perfect product is no longer being made. There's denial at first and then the realization when you spot said item at the Discount Store. You begin to try to stretch out the use of the product ("Only for special occasions." or "I can't waste this product if I'm only going to work." and, "Don't you dare use that! I only have 20 bottles left!" etc). Or you are like me, and purchase every bottle you can find in the store or Amazon or Ebay. And that, my friends, is the very definition of a Product Hoarder (and why you see 16 bottles...and how I'm down from the 25 I started with and kinda freaking out).

But let me explain my case, your Honor. My hair is of an odd sort and responds to only a few products to keep it frizz-free. And not only does Straighten Up keep my hair straight and frizz-free, but it's CHEAP and I get compliments on the lovely smell. I'm serious. Yes, my amazing hair stylist Ashley can duplicate the results with a brush and hair dryer, but I cannot. I totally NEED Sunsilk Straighten Up. Did I mention the amazing smell?

So tell me, are you a Product Hoarder? Spill it! What beauty items cannot be duplicated in your book? What beauty products are you currently hoarding? Am I a complete weirdo? Wait, don't answer that one. Extra points if you share a photo of your stash via comments/blog post/Twitter. Extra, extra points if you find Sunsilk Straighten Up and send it to me!

Snow Day

Sunday night the snow began to fall in Atlanta and by Monday morning, 7 inches had accumulated. Everything shut down--Interstates that were usually clogged with traffic had barely a whisper of a passerby. It was eerily quiet yet peaceful. I spent the day watching the powdery snow change to crunchy ice, getting warm by a fire with coffee & cinnamon bun, and taking these pictures. Enjoy.

Going Home

One of the many train tracks in my hometown. I miss the sound.

For Thanksgiving last week, I made the 5+ hour trek (with a dog, for the first time) to visit my family. I don't get to visit as much as I'd like, so when I do, it's all about soaking up time with family and enjoying my hometown. So where did I go for Thanksgiving? I went to my hometown of Waycross, GA, population 15k, and home of the Okefenokee Swamp.

Have you ever been here?

Growing up in a small town was something I couldn't stand as a teen. I hated how it took an hour to find a good mall. I hated how everyone knew everyone, and Wal-mart is where you'll run into everyone (and heaven forbid if you show up not dressed nicely! People will talk about how you've "let yourself go" to others). I didn't like the judgment I saw and I couldn't wait to leave. Fast forward 15 years...

I miss all of the pines and greenery too.

But years later, I've come to love and appreciate my small town. There are just some things you cannot experience growing up in a big city. And there is just something about going home. I miss my family, being close to the beach, knowing everyone, and that sense of community. I miss the Southern Hospitality (where I lived you wave at people as they drive by--even if you don't know them). I miss the food. I miss the Swamp. I miss how the high school football team is everything to the town. And I wouldn't trade growing up in a small town for anything.

Driving on a beautiful highway.

What do you love about "going home?"

HURRY, HURRY, HURRY to get your requests in for gift guides you'd like to see. 

New Here?

I've gained a lot of followers lately & thought I'd properly introduce myself (as any good hostess should!)
Hi! I'm Elle Sees.


Here's the FAQs:

• A 30-something born (mostly raised) in Georgia.
• I've lived in Atlanta a year and I love it!
• I love to travel.
• Unmarried, no kids, or pets...and happy
• I'm a collector of quotes & random facts.
• Weekly I post my outfits.
• I love blogging & seeing how you guys respond to my posts!

The Blog is About:

• My life in Atlanta
• Cool places I've discovered in Atl
• Fashion & beauty
• DIY
• My attempts at cooking
• Learning more about YOU

Thanks for stopping by! What would you like to see more of on the blog? What more would you like to know about Elle?

Elle Oh Elle: Slide Ride

I'm loving these recent commercials from Volkswagen. If only this could be done in America, but no, someone would sue in a heartbeat for a broken nail. Phooey. Enjoy!

PS--Here's a recap of the week!:
Monday--Another Giveaway
Tuesday--Outfit of the Week
Wednesday--Yucca Drink
Thursday--Dining Al Fresco
Friday--Friday Questions

Another PS--Thanks to Third Floor Closet for my blog award!

From the Elle Files: My First Roadtrip

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Every once in a while, Elle Sees shares some of her crazy adventures. Below is her First Roadtrip. Kids, don't try this at home. Leave it to the professionals! Enjoy!

“Let’s f*&$ing go!” L said. And go, we did. It was Winter break 1999. The four of us, (me, L, E, and Cheyn) decided to do something crazy and go on a spontaneous road trip, our first as adults and with no parents in tow. Laura knew she wouldn’t be allowed to go, so she told them she still had another week of finals. This would prove to be detrimental later.

                The first stop was the Big Apple. It was chosen because that’s where L’s finger landed on the map, ala Pin-the-Tail-on-the-Map-Taped-to-the-Wall. We didn’t have any plans on this road trip other than New York City. We could figure out hotels and stuff later. Bags packed in a cursory manner, we headed into a 1980s Chevy van, borrowed from a grandfather.  We christened her, Tomeka. The radio didn’t work, nor the cig lighter, but the tape player did. We found a New Kids and Christy Lane (Christian singer from the 80s) tapes. Clearly, we were stuck in a time capsule, minus the shag carpeting. We made do by hooking up a CD player to the tape player and using batteries to keep it running. However, the CD player would skip badly if placed on the floor, so we took turns holding it.

From the Elle Files: How to be a Mixtape Master

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Since next week is WANDERLUST WEEK,
 I wanted to share with you a traveling essential: the MIXTAPE.


Before you pack your bags, before you gas up the car, and before you get out the map, you HAVE to plan the MIXTAPE. This is the stuffs of legends, the soundtrack to the trip, and this honor should not be taken lightly. Below I'm sharing my secrets of how to plan the best MIXTAPE, with a few songs thrown in for good measure. If you follow these rules, you *might* just make it to MIXTAPE MASTER. Enjoy.

1. The First Song sets the tone for the day. It has to be upbeat and get everyone excited. Who isn’t excited at the beginning of a trip? Examples: Deadbeat Summer by Neon Indian,  Little Bit by Lykke Li or Today by Smashing Pumpkins.
2. The Themed Song: For fun, play the song that literally matches the place you’re traveling to, like Going to California by Led Zeppelin. Or Coconut Juice, by Tyga, which is perfect if headed to the beach. Or maybe songs about traveling in general, like Holiday by Vampire Weekend or Madonna or On the Road Again by Willie Nelson, but these get tired of quickly.
3.  The Driver Playlist: If the Mixtape Master is generous enough, a nice touch is allowing a few songs of choice for the person driving. This is can only be done when the driver assumes the position. Think of it as a little driving motivation, if you will. Actual choices include: Drunk Girls by LCD Soundsystem, Buzzin by Schwayze , Just by Mark Ronson, Celebrity Status  by Marianas Trench,  or Something Good Can Work – Two Door Cinema Club. My fave is anything Smashing Pumpkins.
   

Elle Sees GUEST POST

Pop over to Aspiring Fashionista today to see my GUEST POST on Summer Beauty Splurge vs. Steal !


Enjoy,
Elle


PS--If you're new to ElleSees, welcome! Click on the pics to your right to see my most popular posts. I hope to see you back soon!


One More PS--HI to all of my new followers. If you're a new follower, comment me below and make sure you leave your site link. I wanna follow back!

ELLE OH ELLE: Sweet Flash Mob

Every now and again, Elle Sees posts a video that's funny/amazing/sweet just for you. Enjoy!

Usually, I've seen flash mobs do dances or publicity stunts, but this was just sweet! Maybe it's because I had been bawling my eyes out watching The Time Travelers Wife earlier, but this video really made me smile and tear up!
Meet Mukhtar, a bus driver in Copenhagen, Denmark. It seemed like an ordinary day until he realized everyone on the bus was there to wish him a Happy Birthday. You don't need to speak Danish to understand. Enjoy!

found via Neatorama.com

From the Elle Files: Around the World in 80 Seconds

Every so often Elle Sees a cool/sweet/funny video and posts it for you!

One of my favorite, favorite things to do is travel, and oh, how I miss it! Every now and again, I get Wanderlust. Well, I was delighted to see this video of Around the World in 80 Seconds. It highlights the places from the 1873 book, Around the World in Eighty Days, by Jules Verne. The places you'll see are London, Cairo, Mumbay, Hong Kong, Tokyo, San Francisco, New York, and London. Where do you want to go? Enjoy!
Like I said, it's only the places in the book, so obviously South America and Russia, etc. are missing. People seem to be touchy about this subject in the comments!!

Elle Oh Elle: Drunk Dude at Coachella

Every now and again, Elle Sees posts a video that's funny/amazing/sweet just for you. Enjoy!
This is the funniest thing I've seen today. Seriously.
Watch 'til the end!