Things to Do While in Quarantine - Master List

Now that everyone's been stuck at home for over a week now I think it's fair we have to start getting creative with our time to keep our sanity! Here's some things I've been doing to keep myself entertained and hopefully give someone else a new idea as well!

1. Play Board Games 
   Check out my blog post dedicated to all my favorite board games & recommendations! 
   If you have no one to play with because you are self quarantined play online at https://boardgamearena.com/
   
2. Learn a new skill 
   This could be anything, but something you've always wanted to do and "never had time" - playing an instrument, learning how to dance, painting, singing etc.
   My dance partner and I have a youtube channel where we teach some partner dancing for beginners check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7u0xXNPpO9ckG_ghdXNRJQ
   
3. Update your home
   Maybe you've been wanting to redo your bathroom or bedroom and haven't had the time or haven't wanted to "waste" your weekends working - well now's the time! My boyfriend and I are updating our bathroom with peel & stick vinyl from home depot so it's doable ourselves! It could be as simple as repainting and new decor or you could go crazy and do a complete makeover - up to you!
   
4. Deep Clean/Organize 
   This may be unpopular but what a better time to give your space a deep clean that it needs (also staying healthy and clean is more important than ever). Reorganizing is time consuming but can be great for an amazing functional space so now's the perfect opportunity.
   
5. Spring Cleaning 
   This goes with the last one, but clearing out all the junk/clothes/things that you don't need, use or bring you joy. A lot of people are struggling financially right now with everything going on, so donating is a great option. If you are someone who is struggling financially try reselling some of your stuff! I've used Poshmark and Ebay to resell some things, but do your research depending on what you're selling.
   
6. Start a Youtube Channel/Tiktok 
   Everyone has something they can offer the world. Maybe you're really funny, or a great cook. Maybe you have a super cute pet or know how to dance. As long as the videos bring value in some way why not! It could just be for entertainment, but it could also be tutorials on something you're really good at! Or educational in some way. The options are really endless. You don't need an amazing camera, just start on your iphone with natural lighting and go from there!
   
7. Zoom/Facetime/Google Hangout 
   Since we are supposed to be quarantined it's hard not to be able to socialize and see your family/friends so virtual hangouts are a great option! Not perfect but better than nothing!
   
8. Refine a Skill
   This time is great not to just learn and try new things, but also get better at skills we already have/are working on or maybe once had and lost. Personally I'm trying to practice the guitar which I haven't done in over a year probably. Also trying to spend more time stretching.
   
9. At Home Workouts 
   Just because you can't go to the gym or your HIIT classes doesn't mean you have to stop working out. Most places that offer classes like dance/yoga studios etc. are holding virtual lessons/classes so check out your favorite places to see what they're offering or check a new place! Youtube is such an amazing platform as well because there are SO many channels with amazing workout videos.
   My personal favorites are
   https://www.youtube.com/user/blogilates (Pilates)
   https://www.youtube.com/user/yogawithadriene (Yoga)
   But there's TONS of videos out there so try them out and see what you like!
10. Get Outside! 
    Just because we can't go places doesn't mean we can't go outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine! Go for a walk around your neighborhood or if you have any trails near you even better! My boyfriend and I have been going for runs every day to stay active and get some fresh air. Great way to get exercise, get outside and change the scenery. 
11. Cooking 
    This definitely could be refining and/or learning a new skill, but everybody eats and more people are dining in than ever. I usually look up recipes on pinterest or youtube, or ask my mom for her recipes so you can do the same! Great time to try out some new recipes or experiment a little bit!
    My Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lindsmelville/
12. DIY Projects 
    This could mean many different things but I think the biggest thing is being able to "do it yourself" and being creative. I was really into DIY skin care and would experiment with different recipes/ingredients. DIY decor is really fun to if you're into that sort of thing and that can go into you decorating possibly! It could be artsy or crafty but it can be really fun and fulfilling! 
13. Start a Website/Blog
    This goes along with creating a Youtube/Tikok, but if you aren't into making videos you can start a blog or website to share your passions/knowledge or entertain whatever you're good at/passionate about!
14. Start an Online Side Hustle 
    This is especially great for people who have lost their jobs or just need some more to make ends meet. You could start an online store to sell something of value. Could be stuff you are getting rid of or could be something you make, maybe you sew and make clothes, or maybe you can throw and sell your pottery, or paintings whatever it is. You can make money with youtube/tiktok/podcasts anything like that as well. I would do your research as well to see what could work for you, but as long as you love it and are passionate about it you can pretty much start a business around anything!
15. Movie Marathon/Netflix Binge 
    I wanted to avoid this one because it's the obvious go to, but nothing wrong with an occasional binge or maybe everyday depending on how you are taking the whole quarantine situation.
    Movie series are a great option: The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Avengers & all the super hero movies if that's your thing
    TV shows: Game of Thrones, The Office, Friends, Gossip Girl, Greys Anatomy
    Those are just a few favorites of mine!
16. Read/Listen to AudioBooks
    I actually haven't read any books yet, but I'll have to start! If anyone has some recommendations for either books/podcasts please share!

Hope this wasn't completely useless for you and maybe you can try something from this list to help get you through this weird time! Be sure to share what you've been doing or add some favorites that you've watched, read, listened to or done!

XOXO,

Linds

Things to do While in Quarantine (Board Game Edition)

Play Board Games!

If you're lucky enough to be quarantined with family/friends then this is such a life saver. My boyfriend Chris and I are HUGE board game nerds, like obsessed with strategy games (way before this quarantine life, but great to pass time and use your brains!)
If you happen to be stuck quarantined alone don't worry you can play board games on https://boardgamearena.com/ (highly addicting). You can play with other family/friends virtually if you want - they just need account (you can join for free or get premium for $4 a month). Or you can play with randos whatever you feel. 

If you don't like strategy games this list maybe isn't for you but I'll share my personal faves here in no particular order:

1. Carcassonne  https://amzn.to/3aDAM3u

2. Harry Potter Hogwarts Battle Deck Building Game  https://amzn.to/2R2c1pT 
Add the expansion pack too if you're really into 10/10 would recommend: https://amzn.to/3aBNtvV

3. Puerto Rico https://amzn.to/2WZXG19

4. Lords of Waterdeep: A Dungeons & Dragons Board Game https://amzn.to/2wKpLPt

5. Parcheesi https://amzn.to/2w4ptlW

6. Risk https://amzn.to/2X0moON

7. Game of Thrones Risk https://amzn.to/2w9ApyS

8. Catan https://amzn.to/3dMBxcE

9.  Pandemic (warning might be triggering during this time sorry!) https://amzn.to/3dVT7uW

10. 7 Wonders https://amzn.to/2R4xM8D

11. 7 Wonders Duel https://amzn.to/2R55jjb

12. Forbidden Island https://amzn.to/2WWuV5z

13. Chess https://amzn.to/39uUugA

14. Ticket to Ride https://amzn.to/2xJPsPW

15. Splendor https://amzn.to/3dImkcJ

16. Chinese Checkers https://amzn.to/39wgRCt

17. Dungeons and Dragons: Castle Ravenloft Board Game  https://amzn.to/2R1EnAQ (this is honestly beyond the nerdiest game I've ever played or encountered so if only recommend for the super nerds)

This group of games are some of my favorite and all are so interesting and can be so different each time you play! Check them out and let me know if you did!

XOXO,

Linds

Pumpkin Face Mask | Bright & Clear Skin

Hello friends! I'm back with another DIY skin care video for ya, and this one is SO fall. Who doesn't love a good pumpkin in October, am I right? Well now you can put it on your face, and the benefits rock! If you haven't already be sure to check out my youtube video on how to make this face mask, and if the video brought you here let's get into all the detes on how this is amazing for your skin. 

Pumpkin:

Pumpkin is not only great for October decor, but also has amazing benefits for the skin when applied topically. It's great brightening the skin, anti-aging and reducing dark spots. 
Pumpkin is full of fruit enzymes and AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) which increase cell turnover - therefore smoothing and brightening the skin. It also contains vitamins A and C which help to soften and sooth the skin, as well as increasing collagen production lessening and slowing down the aging process. Pumpkin seeds are a whole other deal (great for people who suffer with acne), but we'll get into that another day. 

Eggs:

Eggs are not only an excellent addition to your diet, but also topically for your skin as well! Eggs are filled with vitamins, amino acids, rich in moisture and contain acne fighting enzymes. 
Egg whites work to tighten your skin and reduce the size and appearance of your pores. It is also a natural astringent that helps regulate sebum secretion (oil) which helps prevent future breakouts. Naturally, since it works to tighten and lift loose skin, it also promotes youthful looking skin. Double whammy am I right?! Lysozyme (an active enzyme in eggs whites) helps to maintain the skin's natural elasticity and tautness, therefore slowing down the aging process. Lysozyme also fights acne causing agents, such as germs and bacteria, therefore helping to clear blemishes. Lysozyme has also been said to help with acne scarring and dark spots.
On the other hand, egg yolks have different, yet awesome skin benefits. The yolk works to provide the skin with healthy fat and moisture, therefore plumping dry skin cells making the skin look youthful and bouncy. Egg yolks are great for locking in moisture - very good for people with dry skin. Yolks are also rich in vitamin A (retinol) which is an ingredient found in many top acne fighting products. So not only do they provide hydration for the skin, but still help to fight acne as well.
As you can see eggs are crazy beneficial for your skin health, from fighting acne, to firming skin and everything in between!


Honey:

Now onto honey. Honey is crazy good for your skin. It is a natural antibiotic which helps to fight existing acne. It contains anti-inflammatory properties which helps to reduce redness and inflammation that acne causes. It is chalk full of antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. And on top of it all it is a great moisturizer and nourishes your skin. These are just to name a few, but I think you probably get it - honey rocks!!

Apple Cider Vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar is chalk full of nutrients and properties that are amazing for your skin. It contains malic acid which is a natural antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral substance. This means it fights bacteria, preventing new blemishes to form. It also contains ash which helps maintain the pH level of our skin (super important for healthy skin!!) by balancing the production of sebum. Basically that means it keeps your skin from getting too oily or too dry - therefore preventing future breakouts. Apple cider vinegar also helps to draw out toxins and unclog your pores, preventing new blemishes to form. Now on top of keeping acne at bay it's also great for anti-aging as well. It contains alpha hydroxy acids which removes dead skin leaving your skin looking fresh and young. This will help to fade age spots and acne scarring too. It has also been known to lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Can't go wrong with this stuff people! 

Recipe:

• 1/4 cup pure pumpkin puree (or fresh pumpkin)
• 1 whole egg
• option for dry skin (teaspoon of honey)
• option for oily skin (dash of apple cider vinegar)

*I have combination skin so I decided to add the honey and apple cider vinegar, but you choose based on your skin type and needs*

Hope you learned a little something and can see why this face mask rocks for your skin! Be sure to check out my video if you haven't yet & I'll talk to you soon!

XOXO,

Linds

DIY Toner to Get Rid of Body Acne!

If you haven't yet be sure to check out my video on this tutorial any my other best tips on how to keep body acne at bay! 

Apple Cider Vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar is chalk full of nutrients and properties that are amazing for your skin. It contains malic acid which is a natural antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral substance. This means it fights bacteria, preventing new blemishes to form. It also contains ash which helps maintain the pH level of our skin (super important for healthy skin!!) by balancing the production of sebum. Basically that means it keeps your skin from getting too oily or too dry - therefore preventing future breakouts. Apple cider vinegar also helps to draw out toxins and unclog your pores, preventing new blemishes to form. Now on top of keeping acne at bay it's also great for anti-aging as well. It contains alpha hydroxy acids which removes dead skin leaving your skin looking fresh and young. This will help to fade age spots and acne scarring too. It has also been known to lessen the apparence of fine lines and wrinkles. Can't go wrong with this stuff people! 

Tea Tree Oil (optional):

Tea tree oil is great for your skin, especially acne-prone skin. It helps acne because it contains disinfecting and soothing properties. It works to disinfect the pores while also drying out whiteheads and blackheads. It penetrates the blockage between your skin and sebaceous glands. Make sure to dilute it properly or it could really dry out your skin. But a dash of this to my DIY toner is perfect to help clear up those stubborn spots!

I hope this helps you like it's helped me!! Back acne/body acne SUCKS. Don't forget to check out my video for more :)

XOXO,

Linds

DIY Grapefruit Mask for Acne & Skin Damage!

Perfect timing for summer with this grapefruit and yogurt mask! It's so easy using only 2 ingredients that will leave your skin with a fresh & youthful glow! Be sure to check out my video tutorial on youtube if you haven't already!

Let's get into why these ingredients rock for your skin!

Grapefruit:

Firstly make sure you are using a red or pink grapefruit (not white or yellow) because red and pink grapefruits contain a higher amount of antioxidants as well as lycopene. The antioxidants fight free radical damage that can cause wrinkles, discoloration of the skin and overall dullness. Lycopene (found in red & pink grapefruits) can improve the texture of your skin by aiding cellular functions that are essential to keeping your skin looking young. Lycopene also can strengthen your skin by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the destruction and breakdown of collagen. The juice contains retinol (which is known to be awesome for acne) which repairs skin damage, fights fine lines & tones the skin. Grapefruits also contain acids that exfoliates the skin, keeping your pores clean and complexion bright. Not only are grapefruits delicious and smell amazing they have AMAZING skin benefits!!

Yogurt: 

Firstly make sure you have PLAIN yogurt with no additives. The probiotics in yogurt help to fight acne and discoloration. Yogurt also contains lactic acid that dissolves dead skin cells leaving your skin exfoliated and smooth. Since it exfoliates your skin with no physical abrasive exfoliants it's ideal for skin with acne so it can properly exfoliate your skin without aggravating your acne! It also will dilute the grapefruit juice and balance it with a moisturizing effect so it won't dry out your skin. Plain yogurt is a great additive to any face mask with anti-aging and acne fighting properties!


DIY Grapefruit & Yogurt Mask:

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (organic is ideal)
• the juice of 1/2 of a grapefruit (pink or red)

Be sure to go and check out my video tutorial on how to make this mask on youtube!! Hope you like it as much as I do!

XOXO,

Linds

DIY T-shirt Ideas for Summer!

4 DIY T-Shirt Ideas for Summer!

Things you need:

1. T-shirts (I got mine from forever 21)

2. Iron transfer paper: https://amzn.to/2SABZ51 3. Scissors: https://amzn.to/2UVSWZv 4. Iron: https://amzn.to/323uAhO

Neon Pink "No Sides" Elephant Tee

Here's the picture of the elephant I used:

All you have to do is iron on the picture, cut off the sleeves & entirely down the sides and tie the bottoms together! Watch the video tutorial I have on youtube!

Blue "Mermaid" Seashell Tee

Here's the picture of the seashells I used:

All you have to do is iron on the pictures, cut off the sleeves, cut of the bottom to crop it leaving a slit in the center front with two triangles for tying only in the front. Much easier to follow in the video tutorial I have on youtube!

White Dolphin "Crochet" Tee

Here's a picture of the dolphins I used:

I chose to leave out the text (even though it's super cute) because you could see the outline of the iron-on sheet and I didn't like it, so I only used the dolphins but feel free to do whatever of course! All you have to do is iron on the picture, cut 1 inch slits about 1/4 of the way from the bottom up all the way around and start "crocheting" them together! Again much easier to follow in the video tutorial I have on youtube!

Lavender Pineapple Crop Top

Here's a picture of the pineapple I used:

This is the easiest! All you have to do is iron on the picture & cut off the bottom to crop it! Watch the video tutorial I have on youtube!

I absolutely LOVE how these turned out and I will definitely be rocking these at the beach, the gym, and walking around enjoying life this summer! Be sure to check out my video to see more details on how these are made!

XOXO,

Linds

Firmoo Giveaway Rules!

Hi loves!

If you're here you most likely watched my FirmWoo Review & Giveaway video and if you haven't seen it yet be sure to check that out first!

Now on to the fun part :) 

There will be 5 GIVEAWAY WINNERS!!! (3 from Youtube and 2 from Instagram)

The giveaway will run for 3 weeks, from Monday May 16th - Monday June 6th!

The rules (3 Youtube winners):
1. Be subscribed to my youtube channel lindsbeauty5 (I obviously want the winners to be loyal subscribers so I can give back <3)
2. To enter simply comment on my youtube video telling me what you're most excited for this summer & post the link to the frames you like from here http://www.firmoo.com/promo-free-glasses-samples.html

The rules (2 Instagram winners):
1. Be subscribed to my youtube channel lindsbeauty5
2. Follow my Instagram account @lindsmelvillee
3. To enter simply comment on my youtube video what your Instagram handle is & post the link to the frames you like from here http://www.firmoo.com/promo-free-glasses-samples.html

You can enter as many times as you want & you can enter the Youtube and Instagram giveaways for a better chance of winning!

NOTE: Free shipping to anywhere in the USA! If you are an international subscriber you will unfortunately have to pay a shipping fee.

XOXO,

Linds