Its me!

Hi Guys! 

So for my first post, I just thought that I'd introduce myself a little and let you guys know a little bit more about me and where my interest in make up and beauty has come from. Im from Arkansas and I go to college in the state as well. My passions include farming, tiny houses, candles, feminism, plants and of course lipstick. Ive only recently gotten really into makeup and beauty, so I am in no way an expert or authority on these subjects. Im just a girl who loves playing around with make up, hair, and other beauty activities. Im still learning a lot every day, as I'm sure most of us are and Im excited to begin sharing my explorations with you guys! 

When I say Ive gotten more into makeup and beauty recently, I mean more that I've just recently become more comfortable about being interested in these things. I grew up a major "tomboy", or rather, I didn't fit a lot of feminine stereotypes for little girls. I didn't like princess movies, I didn't like frilly pink things, I liked playing outside more than I liked painting my nails. These preferences eventually resulted in my identity as a "tomboy", which then in turn limited my access to "girly stuff" as I grew up. Since I didn't like these things as a child, it was a big deal to my family and friends if I started liking them as I got older, and that was embarrassing. So I just didn't partake, even though I wanted to. 

I believe that, as a child, I rejected "girly stuff" because a lot of it was associated with female characters that I didn't look up to. Most Disney princesses for example, are not strong characters or good leaders, fierce fighters, or even that interesting if were honest. "Girly activities" included sitting around having tea parties, not getting dirty, and only doing proper things. Girls weren't meant to be smart, just pretty and pleasing. I so wasn't into that. And I'm still not, honestly. But what changed for me happened around when I went to college. Meeting so many strong women, beautiful women, smart women, talented women- and really coming into my identity as a feminist allowed me, for once it seemed like, to be proud that I was a woman. 

I realized that productivity, strength and smarts were not opposite of femininity, as they had been presented to me. Strong character and beauty are not mutually exclusive; in fact, I started to associate one with the other. I now could exist in a world where applying make up, doing my hair, and dressing in a way that I found pleasing was not shallow, but an act of self love and appreciation. Applying make up was no longer what I thought it was- it was not hiding, but coming out of my shell. It was not for men or anyone else, it was for me- although looking hot to other people is certainly a compliment I'll accept. 

So now, I can work on a farm and be covered in dirt without a stitch of makeup on -- or, I can be dressed to the nines with red lipstick or a smokey eye, and still feel empowered, feel feminine, feel like myself doing either. 

Im excited to share a few things that Ive been loving with you guys and see what you have to say! 

XOXO-