wash off the day

Life holds certain things that we have in our "go-to" belt whenever we need to relax, decompress, and release the day's stress. Some days we need our friends, some days, our families, some days it's just a hot cup of coffee, a glass of wine, or a special dessert. Some days we need to get out and go for a walk, feel the sand between our toes, or play with a puppy. For the most part there many things that are my go-to mood boosters. For my man, there is one thing that snaps him out of a bad day more than anything else...surfing. Getting in the water, soaking in the coolness of the ocean, feeling the salt on your face, and the undeniable strength of the sea. It instantly reminds you; life is bigger than your little trials. (He's pretty darn good at it too...and, he's mine!)

5 things: sun

[layout and choices for by way of ney]

With Labor Day around the corner I thought I'd share some of my must haves for long days in the sun and sand. My weekend will be filled with sunshine, heat and girlfriends. I'll be in Las Vegas, for a bachelorette of a dear friend. What are your plans for the long weekend?

MUST HAVES:

1] sun bum zinc oxide: I have looked for years and years for a clear formula zinc oxide to use on my face, hands, lips, and scars to prevent any sun damage. I finally found this one on my early summer trip to Miami and have loved it all summer. It smells like you want sunscreen to smell, clean and tropical.

2] a BIG summer tote that I can throw everything in: water, magazines, sunscreen, my camera snacks, hats, towels...

3] shisedo ultimate skin protection cream: This one does it's job! A major sun block out that I use on areas prone to burn (my face and shoulders). While it protects all day it also doesn't make my sensitive skin breakout. I am proud to say that for the first time in a long time I didn't get one burn on my face this summer.

4] a BIG beach towel. The bigger the better with this one. It's no fun to spend your day trying to stay on your towel. A blanket size is best!

5] hats! hats! hats!: a big hat does wonders to keep my face safe from the sun. I love this panama hat that my dad brought home for me. You can find one here.

*I also like to bring along a light weight pashmina or scarf to drape over my shoulders after enough sun or over my face while I take a mid afternoon, summer nap in the sun.