I've seen a lot of posts recently...

I've seen a lot of posts recently about supporting small and local businesses because of the pandemic and the supply chain issues so I thought it might be an appropriate time to renew my Etsy listings.  For anyone who didn't know me back when I was heavy into making jewelry:  I made it with nail polish.  Some of it came out pretty nice and I traveled (usually with my mom and brother) doing events and selling there.  It was a good time, but between some health issues and college I could no longer find time to make things or do events and well, then the pandemic and etc...  basically all of my supplies and already-made items ended up in the closet.

I'm gonna be honest and say that I don't know if I'll actually end up reviving Polish All the Things for really-realz... I'm kind of more health- and career- focused at this point in my life.  I would love to get back into nail art just for myself because it's a self-care thing.  I've already starting making time for keeping my claws polished so that's a step in the right direction.  I don't know if making jewelry will ever be a part of my life again, but if it does I can't imagine it being a MAJOR part.  I don't know.  It's fun and stress-relieving and I DO have a ton of polish...  But anyway, if you see something you want I'd say get it before it's gone.  I really can't make any guarantees at this point.

So without further blah blah, here's the link to my shop.  I've got a table full of jewelry that apparently never made it to Etsy so that'll hopefully get up there this weekend.  But yeah, that's all for now.

Thank you, friends.  ❤

https://www.etsy.com/shop/PolishAllTheThings

My mood has been so up and down lately.

My mood has been so up and down lately. I spent a couple of days having fun and skating, then a couple of days on the couch with a down mood, then a couple of days going hard on the housework, and today was back on the couch. Somewhere in all of that I painted my nails for the first time in AGES and it almost made me cry because I'd missed it so much.

Update before I get this busy day started:

Update before I get this busy day started:

Yesterday while we were in Talladega we got a notification that a package was delivered in Anniston. I didn't think I was expecting a package, but we decided to go ahead over there and see just in case. Turns out that the large nail polish order I placed when I was consoling myself for doing what I thought was terrible on my final exam had arrived much earlier than expected. Since I passed the exam and my class I guess that makes it a celebratory package now. I let Kira know that we had nail mail and she came over and opened it for me. I love watching her open things. She Hulks out on packages and it's wonderful to behold. 😂😂😂

As we were looking at our goodies we were talking about what all we could do with them and I started to get really excited thinking about having time for my hobbies once again. That was the first hint to me that things have changed - knowing that I'll be able to spend time with the kids and do things we enjoy together. We're so busy moving that we haven't had time to relax, but just knowing that the down-time is coming made me super happy.

I think I invited most of my nail art peeps...

I think I invited most of my nail art peeps who would be interested in these custom stamping plates to the group for purchasing, but if not, there's going to be a second round of orders so comment below if you want in. I received my plates today and they look great.

I did my nails twice recently.

I did my nails twice recently.  One time, I had high hopes but hated the way it turned out.  The second time (pictured) I was just going to wear a polish but Shaun told me I should stamp purple on it, so this is the result.  I actually really like how it came out.  Sometimes less is more, I suppose.

Humbled by Tonic;
Harunouta plate L034;
Stamping technique

My claws are SHARP.

My claws are SHARP. While changing into my pajamas just now I literally sliced my nip-nop to the point that it's bleeding. I'm definitely repainting these bad boys tomorrow to dull them. Gotta cap those edges!

Ouch! 😬😬😬

I know nobody asked, but...

I know nobody asked, but I have seen a lot of my friends who wear gels / acrylics post about being unhappy with their nails since salons are closed.  I have tips (the advice kind), if anyone is interested in growing out / taking care of their natural nails.

1)  Take prenatal vitamins for growth.  I don't care that I haven't been pregnant in 20 years, I've been taking prenatals for as long as I can remember.  I have tried biotin / hair & nail / whatever supplements and vitamins over the years, and none of them give me the growth I get with prenatals, so that is what I take.

2)  If you have brittle / peeling nails, then there are two ways to attack that:  From the inside and from the outside.

2a)  From the inside:  Take coconut oil pills.  I don't know the science behind it, I just know that I have A LOT LESS peeling when I take it.

2b)  From the outside:  Cuticle oil / balm.  Any kind is better than nothing, but the best I've ever used has been from Bliss Kiss.  I can have a peeling nail and put that oil on, and it's almost like it seals it back together.  Just get in the habit of moisturizing your nails / cuticles a few times a day and that will help a lot.

2c)  If you file your nails, it's ok to take off length with a coarse file, but use something far less course afterwards for finishing to help prevent peeling.

Obviously, since I am not a doctor you should do your own research regarding what vitamins / supplements are ok for you to take, but this is what has worked for me.  I go through periods of being really on top of my nail care, and then times where I don't bother.  I can tell a huge difference when I'm doing all of the things I've listed above.

If anyone has anything to add or ask I'm up for chatting!  Be well, friends!  ❤

I just finished doing my toes.

I just finished doing my toes. They needed to be done months ago but I never felt like it. This is better. 😊 Maybe Shaun's are next. 😃

I would like to do some nail art but I'm not feeling creative. Anyone up for challenging me? Post pics of nail art in the comments and I'll pick something to recreate. (Not length or shape-wise - just the look.)

If you're interested in trying a new thing during quarantine...

Hey friends.  If you're interested in trying a new thing during quarantine nail stamping is fun.  This little kit has everything you need to get started.  I know the nerdy theme of these plates is not for everyone, but you only pay for shipping ($7.99) to get this kit.  The stamping polishes and stamper alone are worth more than that if you bought them separately.  If you decide you're into it I know tons of sources for quality, cheap plates.  If you try it and need tips I'm happy to help!  😊

https://www.facebook.com/hellomaniology/posts/4375431789178705

We're twinning. Tripleting? 😂😂😂

We're twinning. Tripleting? 😂😂😂

Me, Shaun, and Kira gots matching toes! 😊