Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Elbow Tattoo Experience: What to Expect & Healing!

It's been a while! Let's get right into it and talk about elbow tattoos. I recently got a full-color rose elbow tattoo that covers the entirety of my elbow. Before getting this tattoo, I'd heard stories about how painful the tattoo was but not much about the recovery and what to expect. It's weird... I guess not many people who have had their elbows tattooed have written extensively about it? Lemme help you guys out!

I got a rose tattoo on 7/13/2015. Started the tattoo around 1 and got out around 5:30. Don't expect your tattoo to take this long- it really does depend on what you're getting and the size of what you're getting. I had been so nervous about it the previous week but by the time I arrived at the tattoo parlor I was fine... and then the tattoo started. 

Generally, you need to be lying down when getting your elbow tattooed, but that's not always the case. I was lying down for my elbow tattoo and my artist started working on it. It was fine at first... sure, it hurt, but it was only about a 6/10. She had to do the outline first and that was done pretty quickly. By the end of the outline, I was regretting my choice- would I be able to go several more hours to finish the color/shading?

I took 3 breaks total. I wish I had taken more, but that would have just slowed down the process. The pain level finally reached a whopping ten the final 2 hours. There were so many moments when I wanted to quit, but I didn't. Who wants a half finished tattoo? I sucked it up and finally my tattoo artist finished. I had been on my phone playing a game, trying to get my mind off everything. Lemme tell you, it's incredibly hard to think of anything other than the pain you're going through.

Please keep in mind that everyone's pain tolerance is different.

Recovery

First full day- The pain was ROUGH. My elbow and forearm were incredibly swollen and my entire arm hurt so much. I basically immobilized my arm and did everything with my left arm (NOT my dominant arm). I was desperately trying to search how to hold my arm, if that makes any sense. Do I lay it flat against my side? Give it a slight bend? I had to figure it out myself. A straight arm felt... wrong. Generally, when you stretch your arm out straight, your elbow is a bit wrinkled- you DON'T want that. I always held my arm SLIGHTLY bent at the elbow. Your elbow will tell you what feels right. I felt tightness when I straightened my arm, but felt fine when it was very slightly bent.

Sleeping Tip: I like to use a soft, thin sheet as a barrier from my tattoo and other things like the mattress, my pajamas, and even my hands. Sleeping position I found most comfortable were were the Trunk, Nostalgic, Soldier (using the sheet as a barrier), and my favorite- the Free Fall (with arms way less bent!). Warning: Days 3 and 4 had me with a achy shoulder, which I think is because of the Trunk or Nostalgic sleeping position- it was pretty uncomfortable for my body, but it might be different for yours!

Days 2 through 4- Arm is still swollen. I'm starting to worry- the swelling for my other tattoos went down the following day, so why hadn't my elbow gone down? DON'T WORRY! Everything's fine, Because your elbow was tattooed for hours on end, it's pretty pissed at you. Swelling should go down within the first week.

Washing/Lotion I use: My tattoo artist was very impressed with how my tattoos have healed up, which I was flattered by. I use the h2O Ocean Foaming Soap from Amazon and Lubriderm. You're best going as "natural" as you can with what you use to wash and lotion your skin- anti-bacterial 
with NO scent and lotion with no scent. I honestly love Lubriderm and highly recommend it. Another soap I use is the one at my job, an unscented anti-microbial soap. It makes sense they have it because I work at a health clinic!


Day 4 through 7- Beginning on day 4 something odd started happening... my skin was beginning to peel! I was concerned, once again, since peeling didn't start so early with my other tattoos. This, again, is normal. Because you move our elbow so much, even when you try not to, you loosen up the skin faster. This isn't necessarily a bad thing. In my case, the healing process was just going a lot faster but the tattoo still looked great.
The itching isn't too bad, but it's still a part of your body you can't scratch and that's always irritating. The skin fell off very quickly.
By day 6 the swelling had gone completely down. By day 7, a full week after I first got the tattoo (7/20), most of the skin had fallen off. My tattoo has had zero color fall out so far!

Tip: Please cover your tattoo and don't let the sun hit it. If it's Summer and hot (like it is as I type this), suck it up. Your tattoo will burn like a bitch and fade if you expose it to the sun. I'm also pretty sure you're not supposed to but sunscreen on it until it's healed, so be mindful of that. Cover it up and just wait the 1-2 weeks for it to heal.

TLDR: Just get through the pain, once it's done it is DONE. Don't mess up the tattoo that put you through so much pain by being lazy and not being mindful that your elbow was just tattooed. Everyone's pain tolerance is different, be mindful of that. Use Lubriderm, it's awesome. Your elbow will be swollen and hurting but it'll pass.

I hoped this helped anyone getting an elbow tattoo! Lemme know!

Sunday, January 26, 2014

2014 January Favorites


So I rarely do any monthly favorites but here are my current obsessions from this month!

I've been reading a lot lately and two of the big books I've read are "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" and "Mockingjay". I got MPHFPC on a whim when I was at the bookstore because it was a New York Time's Best Seller and it seemed interesting. Oh boy, it really was! I read it last week and found out that the second book came out the week before I read it. I will definitely have to buy it ASAP! I finally read Mockingjay. I was afraid it was going to be bad or boring like some people claimed, but it was amazing. It gave me so many mixed emotions but in no way was this book bad. I will say I'm gonna be an emotional wreck when I see Part 1 (this November) and Part 2 (next year). Don't worry, when I saw "emotional wreck" it can really be taken two different ways- both good and bad.

I only got into one new show this January and it was Raising Hope. I had seen a couple of episodes when there was nothing on TV and found the show very funny. I soon realized that I found it hilarious because it was created by Greg Garcia, the creator of My Name Is Earl. My Name Is Earl was one of my favorite TV shows until it was cancelled some years ago. Many of the same actors who were on My Name Is Earl appear on Raising Hope. This show is great and wonderful for the whole family.

I know I'm extremely late to the game, but I only just got into Spotify. I had miss after miss with the radio-type apps such as Pandora. I like Spotify because you can make playlists, only listen to a single artist, and it's really easy to use. Downside is you only get 6 skips, but it isn't that terrible.


I found the game Jelly Splash because my sister had it downloaded on her iPad Mini and I really enjoyed the game when I played it. I love it and it's my current obsession, even though I've currently been stuck on the same level (50) for a few days. Ugh!

New movies I saw this month:

Her- Saw this last night, actually. I had been wanting to watch it but only just found the link to watch it online. I enjoyed it but in no way was it like Oscar-worthy. It was a nice film with beautiful imagery.

Dallas Buyers Club- One of the films with a lot of Oscar buzz. I really enjoyed this based on a true story film. I definitely recommend it. Again, it wasn't the BEST film in the world but it was still great with wonderful acting from Matthew and Jared.

Frozen- The popular Disney movie that seems to be everyone's favorite movies. I don't want to go off on a rant, but the music wasn't even that great and the film itself wasn't "Disney's best" like some people claim.

Well, hope you all enjoyed this post and check out some of my January Favorites. Gonna watch the Grammy's soon!

xoxo

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Nail Polish Wants

So I've been obsessing over nail polishes this past fall and winter. I've rarely had my nails bare! Here are the nail polishes I've really been wanting lately~

China Glaze's "Champagne Kisses", Zoya's "Meg", O.P.I.'s "Magazine Cover Mouse, Zoya's "Dream"

So I have a dupe for "Champagne Kisses" but I still want the original because it isn't a super perfect dupe. I want this because I think just a glitter on the nails is SO beautiful.

I found "Meg" while looking for another Zoya nail polish and found that one. It's such a beautiful, bright green without going to a nasty booger color. It's shimmery, too! I think it would be the perfect color for Spring/Summer.

I already own "Magazine Cover Mouse" in the mini version but fell in love with it so I want the larger version!

I was actually looking for this polish when I stumbled upon "Meg". "Dream" is SO beautiful in every swatch color I've seen. It's like a galaxy and I fell in love with it right away. This might be the color I buy ASAP.

xoxo



Thursday, January 2, 2014

Kigurumi-Shop.com Review!

Today I will be reviewing kigurumi-shop.com! I received a plush hat and a kigurumi for Christmas. I knew what website my mom bought them from and decided to review the items! Here is what I got:



This was my first kigurumi ever! Keep that in mind! If you don't know, a kigurumi is different than a onesie/footy pajamas. Footy pajamas have, well, feet attacked to them and sometimes a butt flap. Kigurumi's do not have feet on them or a butt flap. The leg parts of the kigurumi go down to the ankle (sometimes above the ankle if you are taller. Kigurumi's are usually one size, unlike footy pajamas. They also are very oversized in the crotch/butt area. Some people might think it looks weird or is uncomfortable or might be difficult to move around in but it's the complete opposite. Also, Kigurumi's are usually character or animal themed and have a hood! They are cuter than footy pajamas, I guarantee that.

Now for the comfort of the kigurumi I bought. The material is thick (apparently thicker than the one my sister got? Mine is an official Sanrio product) and very soft. Where I live it is winter and snowing every day this past week. Point is, it is COLD. Believe me when I say that the my kigurumi kept me SO warm. Personally, it helped me sleep better. Because I was so comfortable in the kigurumi, I slept more soundly and didn't toss and turn because I was cold or uncomfortable in my regular pajamas.

The quality of the kigurumi is off the charts! Not only is the material warm and comfortable, the kigurumi itself is such high quality. The buttons weren't loose and they go securely into the button holes. the lining isn't visible and there is absolutely no itchiness in the pajamas.

I'll keep the info on the hat pretty short since these are pretty widely available, but the hat is great! I wear it when it's really cold out and put my jacket hood over it. It keeps my head and ears really warm and is very soft and cute!



The kigurumi is so cute. Like, beyond cute. From the ears on the hood to the little white tail on the back, this thing is perfect for someone who loves all things cute. Don't think a guy or "tomboy" wouldn't like one- there are so many to choose from! From farm animals to your favorite Disney or Sanrio characters!

I highly recommend you buy from this shop. I know what you're thinking... why are they SO expensive, right? The QUALITY and AVAILABILITY make these things so pricey. They are high quality (as I stated before) and, well, they are pretty hard to come upon in most countries. Most people have to order them online. If you do really want to buy one, I suggest investing in one after saving up some extra cash, buying it with your Christmas or birthday money, or just asking for it for Christmas or your birthday.

xoxo

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Lush Dragon's Egg Bath Bomb Review

Today I have a review for you for the Lush Dragon's Egg bath bomb. It is, in fact, my first bath bomb ever! I've been wanting a bath bomb for quite some time. It wasn't until recently when I was shopping for my mother's birthday gift did I lunge at the chance to finally purchase a bath bomb. I bought one for her as well (her first bath bomb, too!). I bought her the Fizzbanger bath bomb, which smells incredible and I plan on purchasing for myself in the future (if she ends up liking it).


Details:
Weight: 6.3oz
Price: $6.25
Lush description: Unleash fire and bathe in a whirlpool of magnificently vibrant, sizzling color and a spectacular explosion of sights, sounds, and scents. Inhale the refreshing sherbet-y citrus scent of lemon and bergamot; you’ll feel like you’re up and away on the back of your own dragon. This mystical Bath Bomb fizzles, crackles, curls, and ends with a glitter explosion. Citrus oils are known for their invigorating effect on the mind, and Dragon’s Egg is no exception! Drop one of these into the bath for a serious wake-up call on groggy mornings, or before an evening out.

As I mentioned before, this was my first bath bomb. Besides Fizzbanger, this is the bath bomb that allured me the most and I knew was a popular bath bomb. I haven't taken a bath since I was a kid (I only take showers). Bath bombs are basically full-proof- you fill your tub with water with your desired temperature and drop the bath bomb in. Admittedly, I got a little scared when dropping it in because I thought it would crack, but it was fine.

It twirls when it fizzes!

The Scent: In Lush's description it mentions that it should smell like refreshing sherbet-y citrus and they are correct! It's pure citrus-y goodness! I know some people have had certain Lush bath bombs where the scent is very overpowering and almost nauseating. I did not experience this with this bath bomb- it was light and fresh.



The Extras: The water turned a beautiful yellow gold with orange accents. Lush mentions that this bath bomb crackles and fizzes and, again, they were correct! It sounded faintly like a crackling fire, which makes sense seeing as it's a "Dragon's" egg. Lush also mentions that there is a glitter explosion. I was disappointed when I was looking down into the water before getting in when I saw zero signs of glitter... then I got in. Whoa! There was SO MUCH glitter! It was like swimming in a tub full of gold.

Look at all that glitter!



Others: Behind the pretty colors and glitter, this bath bomb left my skin nice and smooth and my body both relaxed and hydrated. The water felt silky smooth! It did leave just a bit of glitter on my skin, but not too much, don't worry! Also, there will be some things floating around that look white, but it's actually little soap suds that make the water feel silky.


Dislikes: Well, one tiny dislike is that it leaves a lot of glitter in your bathtub, but a quick wipe will get rid of it and, hey, it's only glitter! It could be worse (stained tub, like some bath bombs).

After wiping my fingers quickly over the bottom of the tub

Overall: Would I recommend this? Definitely! Obviously it's a little pricey for a single bath use, but if you're into relaxing after school, work, or just a long day, this will definitely help calm and relax you! Just set your laptop up to a movie/show, get a book, or put on some music and you're set! My music of choice was A Fine Frenzy. I also watched a little bit of Lost Girl but paused it half way.

xoxo

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Mini Lush Haul

Went to Lush this past Sunday set on four things I wanted to purchase. My favorite cleanser of all time Let the Good Times Roll, No Drought dry shampoo, and two bath bombs. I'm happy to report I got just what I wanted! Isn't it great when you go to a specific store with certain things you want to buy and you are able to buy everything without a hassle?

Dragon's Egg (Top Bath Bomb)
Fizzbanger (Bottom Bath Bomb)

I've reviewed Let the Good Times Roll here, by the way. It's my all-time favorite cleanser. I absolutely hate cleansers that smell soapy and chemical-y and when I ran out of this cleanser back in February, I wanted to purchase it again then found out it hadn't been brought back as a permanent item (it was announced it was going to, but for whatever reason it didn't). Now it IS back for good and I'm so happy.
I bought No Drought because I've been wanting a dry shampoo. I've tried it once but wasn't too sure on the results so I will try it again another day.
Bath bombs! These are my first bath bombs ever! Well, one of them is for me. I got Dragon's Egg for me and Fizzbanger for my mom's birthday bag. She loves baths so I hope she will  like this. The Dragon's Egg bath bomb smells SO good and citrus-y. The Fizzbanger smells like crisp green apples, cinnamon, and a hint of lime. My mom does like those scents so I hope she'll like this bath bomb (like me, she's never tried one).

I will make sure to review No Drought and Dragon's Egg once I use them!

xoxo

Friday, October 25, 2013

Friday Favorites: Etsy Finds!

'Frozen Banana' Arrested Development Bag - kateslittlestore
Sterling Silver Blue Topaz Ring - fifthheaven
'Damn Fine Coffee' Twin Peaks Brooch - kateslittlestore

Haven't posted in ages! Mostly due to laziness. I've also been getting lots of clothes, which I find difficult to photograph since lighting is terrible in my house. I'll try to compile a large post of clothes and accessories I've gotten recently and make a separate post on vinyls/novelties and a separate post on beauty/makeup products I've purchased. Anyway, onto the Etsy finds!

Isn't that canvas tote cute? I really want a canvas tote for when I want to carry simple things like a book, my phone, keys, and other small things! This one would be perfect, I think! The ring (and that Etsy store in general) is something I've been drooling over lately! I love simple rings. Well, I love MOST rings, but the rings from this Etsy store are so beautiful I may have to splurge and buy one for myself! The pin is one of my favorite quotes from Twin Peaks from my favorite character from the show!

I'll make sure to get right onto photographing all of my recent purchases and making the posts ASAP!

xoxo