Press-Ons V.3

I’ve been quite disappointed with salon visits lately so I’ve been looking into press-on nails (again) recently, ever since a TikTok popped up on my for you page (go figure).

I can tell you about 2 different experiences with press-ons:

One - I was probably elementary-age around this time. I remember going to the drugstore with my mom, and her buying these dark red press-on nails. Each artificial nail had an adhesive sticky tab on the back that attached to your real nail. Looking back now, I wonder how long those lasted her.

Two - Fast forward many years, I revisited press-on nails shortly after I had my son. It’s hard to get to a salon being a first-time mom with a newborn, and I was looking for an EASY way of doing my own nails at home. (I could talk about my attempts with gel, dip powder, etc. but let’s leave that for another day.) The variety of press-on designs and colors were quite impressive, and even stronger glue was available now, but the problem was the nails easily bended and dented.

Fast forward to now, I’m giving em a third try. The issue of the nails easily bending has *supposedly* now been addressed. I messaged a few Etsy sellers asking about durability since “I’m quite active and use my hands a lot” and “am concerned about the nails easily bending” and none of them seemed to be unreasonably concerned. They all backed the durability of their nails and mentioned that some shapes and lengths are more durable, however as long as I use my nails within reason I should have no problem. So I figure they're all pretty durable across the board.

Here is the set I went with.

I went with a medium length because I could never manage with anything longer :-p I did have to do a significant amount of filing but that’s my fault for not measuring.

You know what I did immediately after applying these though? I took note of my nail sizes for my future order, because I loved them so much. As I (struggle to) type this, I’m on day 2 of wearing the nails and I must say, they feel quite solid. No bending yet- buuuut my thumb nail has fallen off twice. I don’t think anyone is to blame. I prepped my nails correctly, and all the other nails are staying on…I think this one is just a bit of a problem child.

Would I order again? Absolutely. “Will they last” is a different question. I will check back in with that info as soon as I have it but in the mean time, I’m carrying nail glue with me where ever I go.

Merry Halloween

Halloween is my MOST FAVORITE holiday.

Before actual halloween, we went to the pumpkin patch, went on a Halloween train ride, attempted to go to a Halloween parade (but parking was a nightmare), and took the kid trick or treating at a few California parks. Wish I had more photos to share, but I've been *enjoying the moment*.

My family and I dressed up as skeletons and were able to snap a couple photos at night's end. My costume was from Shein and after a few purchases from the site, I must say I haven't been too disappointed yet :-p I'll be putting my costume up on Poshmark once I get it washed, and it'll be available for purchase.

Jules gave up on the trick or treating after about an hour, once he had enough candy. Unlike me, he's not a glutton. Also not sure where he picked it up, but he was greeting everyone with "Merry Halloween" last night. I'll allow it.

How to Make Frozen Broccoli Not Taste Like Shit

The main thing to focus on here, isn't the recipe, it's the technique. Charring your vegetables, frozen or not, is a simple way to elevate your dishes.

• Make sure your pan is piping hot before you begin cooking

• Use oil - oil isn't completely necessary when cooking, I know, but for a good sear/char, it is

• Medium to high heat

• Cook your vegetables in a single layer. with empty space between each piece (as shown below). If you don't leave space, the veggies will steam. and won't develop that char we're trying to create

• Flip only once!

• This recipe is flexible. I like to add garlic, lemon, sometimes Parmesan. For simplicity's sake, I'll list the most basic version +truffle (I know, I know), and you add what you want. Cool? Cool.

Pan-Roasted Broccoli

Ingredients/Shopping List:

• Broccoli

• Oil/Butter

• Salt and Pepper

• Flake Salt

• Truffle Zest if you're extra like me

Steps:

• Heat oil/butter. If you have both, use both. Oil will help your food not stick, butter'll add flavor.

• Place broccoli in the pan and let it sear for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, season with salt and pepper. If you're using frozen broccoli, adjust the cook time accordingly.

• Remove from heat and finish with flake salt and a touch of truffle zest.

***Chef's kiss*** no?