What's In My Cart: May 2020 — Vanessa in Boston.

On the heels of what was probably my most triumphant return to writing to-date, I wanted to bless you all with another fun compilation, this time, of all the tabs I have open in my browser.

If nothing else, quarantine has highlighted for me, just how much more intentional I aspire to be in acquiring new pieces for myself whether it be shoes, pantry staples or highly coveted face wash. To reduce the number of outings, I have scrubbed my way through my stockpile of FabFitFun goodies, used the last of a jar of spices and really embraced survivalism as it pertains to suburbia. While it might seem funny to you, the awareness I have now of how much “stuff” I posses actually makes my evolving gratitude practice, the experience of having “things” and shopping much more fun.

How can I do all these things at once? Well, for one, I highly recommend the occasional pantry clean-out. A little visibility on what you have jogs your memory so that you can use up that in-case-of-emergency blue box macaroni and cheese when your significant other isn’t home (It’s okay, you can buy more later!) or just stop buying dried oregano. (Why do we have 3 bottles of this?! Is it reproducing? Is that a thing?!) It has also really helped me in getting rid of things I don’t wear and only keeping things that make me feel amazing.

And so, without further ado, here’s what’s in my cart from every corner of the internet:

We love a homemade spice blend but sometimes it’s good to have a pre-made mix.

EAT: Spices from Penzey’s // I don’t think I truly became an adult until P and I were doing our first grocery shop for the condo and I found out how much good vanilla cost. That moment snapped me right into “dang-being-an-adult-is-hella-expensive” mode. From then on I’ve appreciated gifts in the form of food because a) it’s one less thing you have to buy and b) it feels super fancy to have a spice blend called “Sunny Paris Seasoning” on hand, sprucing up even the most boring of salads, dullest of dips or basic egg recipes. Shop their Vanilla or any of their incredible spice blends right here.

I see it, I like it, I want it, I bought it. And my other favorites are right here.

TRAVEL: Fresh Soy Face Cleanser // One of my 2020 goals was to stop buying drugstore products if I want a atelier face so when Nordstrom reminded me that I had a Note to use in their “Better Together” Sale, I scored the number one face wash everyone has been telling me about. It’s for all skin types which is nice but what I really love about it is the fact that it is super gentle and rich in amino acids which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and help to build dermal density. I know that I haven’t been my skin’s best friend as of late so have this be my go-to is a huge move for me. Get it in any size here.

The tiniest, sparkliest statement piece.

ACCESSORIES: Cancer Ring in Gold Vermeil // I’m coming around to the multiple rings “look” and this one has seriously caught my eye. Not only does Mejuri make some of the prettiest-but-no-overtly-feminine stuff, but their pieces are so versatile and have just the right amount of sparkle for everyday. For the time being, our social calendars are probably not going to be what they used to be which is why dressing for yourself, right down to your bling is actually kind of a nice way to practice a little self-appreciation and mental health. But just in case you want it all, shop it here.

BEAUTY: Smith’s Rosebud Salve // I wasn’t planning on having two “beauty” items on this list but they’re both just so good that if you don’t already own them, you’ll definitely want to. This one is a cult favorite and something I’ve had in my cart, in my bag, in my car and on my nightstand since 2008. I’ve put it on dry lips in the winter, curling iron battle wounds in a pinch, and dry elbows :gasp: whenever I notice them. Another pro tip: Apply a swipe to calluses and sleep in cozy socks to revive feet that have seen better days. You heard it here. And can shop it here.

DRINK: American Cocktail Co. Spicy Ginger Mule Premium Cocktail Mixer // As the weather warms up and more "Happy Hours” will be scheduled on my balcony than anywhere else, I’m all about fun mixers that I can pair with our latest order from Drizly. I’ve become a big ginger fan as of late and this mixologist designed bottle serves up 8-10 concoctions depending on the glassware you use. Just add vodka, whiskey or tequila, a sprig of mint (which I’m currently growing from my window boxes) and you have yourself the happiest Happy Hour not at your favorite bar. Order it from Bloomingdale’s.

NOTES // I’m thinking about making this a monthly series so what do you want to see next month? More wellness items? Staying-in style? Home decor I’m crushing on? Tell me in the comments, on Facebook or on Instagram.