brain is tired
planning, trying to get more sleep and euro pharmacy purchases
Guys, it’s week 3 of learning a new language and I’m completely shattered. It turns out that learning a new language is mentally exhausting. My brain thought it was in retirement until I came to Spain. Now it’s busy making new neuropathways and I don’t think it was ready for that. I also really miss eating vegetables. These people live on bread, jamon, and wine yet they’re all thin (there is ONE salad chain and there is always an insane line). This is one of many things my brain cannot compute as of late.
Despite being tired and overdosing on bread I am fucking loving it.
When packing for this trip I decided not to pack skincare basics like sunscreen, face wash, and toothpaste because I know I’d be able to get quality items here for less. The Spanish pharmacies are really similar to the French ones and likely most European ones.
Turns out Isdin is a Spanish brand. Had no idea until now but I’ve really been enjoying the FusionWater sunscreen in the tinted formula (medium) and the clear (lol @ the Alcaraz collab).
I also got a body sunscreen that has a glowy bronzer in it from another Spanish brand called Heliocare. Perfect for the leggier moments.
Have been a Caudalie fan for ages and this moisturizer is really nice and lightweight.
I’ve used Bioderma Micellar water for probably about 10 years now but I saw they had a cleanser and snapped it up. It’s honestly great. Not magnificent for removing mascara but I’m not a big makeup wearer so it works for me.
Regarding hair- I also took another risk and brought no hot tools. Made it my mission to find cheap blowouts, and locate a cheap blowout I did for 14€ !!! So I just do that every few days to make my life a little easier.
I also found a 14€ mani that has lasted longer than any manicure ever before. And it’s just regular polish. Weird.
14€ + 14€ = 28€ TOTAL :’)
Acquired these very sweet mary jane’s from a local brand here called Sveti Stefan. All the Madrid girls wear these so I got a velvet pair for fall/winter & the bright orange for Summer. So much comfier than I thought (I’ve regularly walked 4 miles a day in them).
I also just decided to change my weather app to Celsius and i’m trying to feel that out, quite literally. So far this ‘fall’ in Spain reminds me a lot of winter in Florida. Cold in the morning then hot by noon. A type of dressing I do not enjoy because you end up having to carry your layers with you. oh well.
ooooo and my husband is going to be joining me next week which I’m jazzed about! We’ll be in Spain for a little then head to France! I think this may be the longest we’ve ever been apart…..?
And with that said, I have Paris on my mind. And with Paris always comes a bit of shopping. I very stupidly didn’t pack for such a cold Paris. I also don’t love the idea of buying things I don’t need so here is the game plan (pending husband packs correct requested items):
Intimissimi cashmere boat neck top & cashmere turtle neck
tights
a beanie of some kind
a white button-down shirt
These are all the things I can def use while on the trip and after. Nowwww regarding things that aren’t a need but a want:
Loro Piana Rebecca flats in black
Will attempt to locate the silver Dries Van Notten sneakers I’ve been swooning after. If not, the Onitsuka tiger ones will do.
Hermes scarf in 90cm... maybe I’ll get lucky and get offered a bag? (ya ya I know)
Rimowa poly-carbon carry-on bag (I don’t have one that fits international flights)
I intend to get the VAT refund on all those items so that’s why they are higher in price point (lower price in the EU vs. US + VAT refund = girl math).
P.S. Check out this sick clothing store for priests. As a former catholic school attendee, this had me gagged. I’m tempted to go inside…
Okay amigos, that’s all for now. Gotta go smash out a siesta.