I decided a couple weeks ago that it was time to break down and try some nail stamping. I went with the Bundle Monster plates from Amazon (which you can find here). At twenty-one plates for $17.99, it was definitely worth a shot. My first few attempts were pretty disappointing, but I think that's to be expected. And then I got this:
Thankfully this particular manicure worked out very well. I love houndstooth. It wouldn't be a stretch to say that it's my favorite pattern. :) This was two coats of Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in Black Out (I believe that's what it's called) with a stamped coat of Studio M French Tip.
You can tell that I didn't clean the plate before doing the index and middle finger on the second picture. I know better now, hehe... I stamped every finger vertically, and then stamped each thumb horizontally. Since the stamping color was white, cleanup was the easiest thing. :)
I adored this manicure! I believe that I wore it for three full days before I forced myself to take it off and put something new on, just so I wouldn't get out of the habit. It hadn't even chipped, though. :) A definite success, if you ask me.
As for the title of this entry, I am getting older. Today is my birthday. :) I don't yet know how I feel about turning twenty-five. I don't feel like I've achieved the accomplishments that I thought I would have by now. Shouldn't I have an actual profession? Some sort of road map detailing the plans for the rest of my life?
Though I'm not always sure of where I'm going, I am always certain of this: I love the life I've been given, no matter how uncertain I become. I am blessed every single day, even when I'm being too self-absorbed to see it. The good in my life outweighs the bad in an outstanding way.
I have parents that love me, and sibling that I connect with, and family that looks out for my well being. I have friends that always listen and persevere, even if I'm the one that's made things hard. I have an amazing man in my life that overfills my heart with joy every time I see his smile.
Even if twenty-five is uncertain, I do know. If this year to come is as richly blessed as the year that's passed, I am fully ready for it.
:)
Thank you for reading!
Happy Birthday! Mani looks great!
ReplyDeleteLooks awesome! I also adore houndstooth - AND black and white.. solid!!
ReplyDeleteNice mani! And Happy Birthday! =)
ReplyDeleteHAPPY BIRTHDAY ERIN!!!!! <3
ReplyDeleteHappy Brithday! I can honestly say that each birthday gets better. Nail stamping is addictive - welcome to the club!
ReplyDeleteLove the mani! And happy birthday! 25 felt like a milestone to me. But all that matters is that you are happy with your life and are surrounded by wonderful people!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday!! Love this mani!
ReplyDelete