top three [01.31.2016]

one of my favorite purses doesn't get the love it deserves

medicine

• The "breath of death" is a late sign of liver disease and a clinical sign of hepatic encephalopathy. I personally have not smelled this, but apparently it has a "sweet, fecal" smell. Hmm. 
• Pre-eclampsia is a complication of pregnancy that is defined by high blood pressure and a large amount of protein in the urine. Experts believe that vessels in the placenta are the reason for these changes, but exact mechanisms are unknown. Interestingly, one of the risk factors for pre-eclampsia are if the baby's father's mother had pre-eclampsia in her pregnancies. 
• The advancement of pharmaceuticals over the last few decades has been amazing, but as it turns out, the number one thing you can do to lower your blood pressure if you are overweight is to lose weight. The boring, and hardest, answer to what you can do for your heart. Here are 21 other, probably more interesting, facts about the heart. 

on the internet

• Weight gain is something that happens to most women, but few openly discuss it. I know that personally as someone who has PCOS and has a really hard time losing weight, it isn't something I like to discuss either, so that makes me even more proud of Alissa for opening up about her struggles. In addition, and the best part of the post, is that she discusses ways to still work on your style and love clothing with those extra pounds. 
• How cute is Merritt's all neutral look? Makes me want a pair of gold sneakers real bad. 
• Morgan and I worked together the summer between first and second year, and she is seriously one of the best people I've ever met. Reading her latest experience in the ICU made me cry and want to hug her - she's going to make the best doctor. 
• Bonus: Alyssa's post about Switzerland officially moves it to the top of my MUST GO NOW travel list. 

spotted

• Do you really love Valentine's Day, or have a fun Galentine's Day party to go to? Please wear this heart covered dress - it's so freaking cute!
• RED TRANSPORT TOTE. omg. 
• OTK boots are all the rage this winter, but I can't bring myself to spend $700 on a pair. These look alikes are on sale now, are maybe even cuter than the original, and are under $100!

ask me anything

• I am a 2nd year pharmacy student and your posts are my favorite study breaks. Do you interact with pharmacists much? If so, what are your interactions like? 
• I'm doing most of my third year rotations at a smaller community hospital, so unfortunately I personally don't get a lot of interaction with the pharmacists. We do have pharmacy students round with us occasionally though! I know that at larger hospitals that many times they have pharmacists on rounds with them, which I think would be such a great experience since you guys know so much more about dosing and drug interactions. We do occasionally have to call our pharmacist though for questions, especially for our patients who are on many different medications, and they have always been so helpful and knowledgable! 
• My husband are loving the show Code Black, and while watching it last night I wondered what people in that field thought of the show. So, my question is, If you watch any shows that take place in hospitals, what is your favorite? And which show do you feel is the most realistic? 
• I'm actually a pretty big fan of medical shows - I have watched Grey's Anatomy from the beginning, I've watched almost all of House, I've seen some of Code Black, and I recently started watching Nurse Jackie. I've really only been in the clinical setting for seven months now, and only in my limited role as a medical student, so I can't really say how realistic the life of a surgeon is portrayed on Grey's or what an emergency medicine residency is like, but I can tell you that much of what goes on in the hospital is fairly mundane - a lot more charting and a lot less on call room romance ;) That's not to say that some of the situations haven't happened, but showing residents putting in orders is a lot less thrilling to watch on TV than a patient with a bomb in them, so I guess it's a tiny bit realistic, but not in the moment to moment, hour to hour life that is portrayed on television. 
• I start PA school in May and have been so inspired by your style to build up my own wardrobe for school. I was wondering if you have any suggestions for a handbag I could use for school, preferably under $60 since I'm on a budget. Thanks so much! :)
• Yay - congrats on getting accepted, that is so exciting! There are definitely a ton of bags at the price range, it all just depends on what you are looking for. This Phase 3 tote is the most classic black tote you're going to get (bonus is that it's currently on sale for under $40!). Sole Society has a really cute structured option that is just a few dollars over your limit. I found myself using a leather tote during the week while at school, and then using a bookbag on the weekends since I always took that much more with me to the library. I'd recommend this minimalist version from Everlane - large enough to fit allllll those textbooks, but sleek enough to look like you aren't on your way to kindergarten (and again just a few dollars over the limit!) 

on franish

• on the blog: this month's budget (+ all of the ladies linking up!) 
• on the instagram: sometimes you just gotta put your new eyeshadow palette next to your $5 tulips...#doitforthegram
• on the twitter: sometimes I feel bloggers forget their audience...

notable sales

• Gap: 35% off
• These simple cut blouses are always my favorite - they go with everything! If this particular style works on, you it comes in a bunch of cute patterns so you can grab a couple - my favorite is the cherry print!
• I don't own many shorter skirts, but I'd reconsider for this cute sailor inspired navy version! It would look so darn cute with a striped tee or v-neck, with a jean jacket. 
• And speaking of jean jacket...it doesn't get more classic than this version, does it? 
• J.Crew: 40-50% off sale items
• You guys have no idea how much I want their toggle coat. The red version is just perfect. 
• How freaking pretty is this striped dress? I can't decide if I love the blue stripes or the mauve striped version more. 
• I have, and love, this pair of pajama pants - they run true to size (see them on me here)
• Loft: 40% off new arrivals (+ 60% off sale items)
• I immediately ordered this black sheath dress when I saw it - it's PERFECT. 
• Kinda majorly in love with their olive trench too (did you see in the inside?!)
• I'm determined to make this lace swing top work on me - I just think it's the cutest lace top that can be worn so many different ways. 

personal

• I know it's called "the common cold" but damn does it knock you down! I had to take my first sick day this week since starting rotations just because I felt so awful. I slept all day, coughed all night, and am just now starting to feel better. 
• 14 months ago I started with my invisalign braces, and this week I finally finished the "fixing my teeth" process by getting my front tooth redone (it was no longer the right shape and color). Let me know if you'd be interested in a full post dedicated to the process - I'm more than willing to share my experiences but don't know if anyone is actually interested in teeth ;)
• It's my last week on the general internal medicine team, and I'm actually pretty sad to see it end - I have learned so much in this time! Next is GI, which was one of my favorite subjects during second year. The doctor I work with seems really great, so I'm excited to learn from her! 

january budget

Nordstrom cashmere poncho: originally $200, on sale for $100

Ann Taylor scarf: originally $70, on sale for $35

January total: $135

Quarterly budget: $35 in November + $202 in December + $135 in January = $125 to carry over

I have found the trick to not buying a lot of clothes - find a job where you have to wear a uniform! I'm only have joking...but this whole scrubs thing really has cut down a ton on buying clothes.

Over the last few years, I really have worked on "quality over quantity" when it comes to my clothing budget. When I first started my budget, I really tried to stretch it as much as I could - I was buying like 15 things every month! Guess how many of those things I still own/wear? Very few. While the items I bought this month are pricey, I bought only two things I really like, and still came in way under budget. The poncho/turtleneck sweater is so darn soft, and while it may not be considered the most versatile of all garments, I love it so much. The "blanket" scarf (I would say it's more oversized scarf than blanket scarf) is so darn soft - I wear it every single day and just can't get enough (more about it next week!). 

If you follow along on instagram, you will also see that I bought myself a pair of pearl earrings this month. Back when I was working, I used to take a percentage of my tax refund to buy myself that wasn't included in my monthly budgets - that's how I bought my Hunter boots and my DvF wrap dress. Since I'm now considered "self-employed" for the earnings I make from blogging, I pay into my taxes rather than get something back. I do put about 95% of what I make from blogging into savings/taxes, but my mom recently convinced me that I should reward myself a little bit (although she was hinting more at the Chanel bag I've been saving up for for three+ years). I went with a bit more of a conservative route, and bought myself a pair of pearl earrings from Tiffany's. I'm obsessed with them, and I know they will be something I will wear for the rest of my life. 

This upcoming month, I'd really like to find a pair of distressed black jeans. Something like this affordable pair from Volcom would be preferred! I'd also really like to try on this cute peplum top from Anthropologie - it's a bit outside of my normal style, but I think it could be really flattering on. Lastly, it's time to get a second pair of my black ankle work pants - I just wear mine all the time, and a second pair would be really handy to have around (especially when I'm on away rotations next fall, and won't always be able to do laundry whenever I want).

beauty tuesday: oribe grandiose hair pumping mousse review

I know I've lamented about the fact that my hair does not hold a curl nor keep its volume very well in the past. A couple of days after posting my most recent hair curling routine, I saw a post on Glamour's facebook with a clickbait title of "You'll never believe the one thing you need to make your curls last!". I'm always one to fall for clickbait, but I really was expecting something outrageous like "use snail mucus " or "wrap your hair in maple leaves and dry with a heating lamp". Nope, turns out the thing you won't believe will make your curls last is...mousse. 

While the article was clickbaity, it did bring up some good points about straight haired girls using mousse to make curls last, and their recommendation with the Oribe Grandiose Hair Pumping Mousse. As a lover of their texturizing spray, and also as someone who had a little bit of an Amazon giftcard left, I figured why not? 

what it promises: 

Each luxe pouf gives hair an exaggerated sense of body and structure, without the slightest hint of crunch. All-day memory leave styles supremely soft yet set, for hair that's thicker, fuller, larger than life. 

how I use it:

After I've air dried by hair 50% of the way, I use my Kiehl's smoothing cream all over, and then my Aveda tonic at my roots (review here). Then I'll put the smallest "pouf" I can get out of the bottle, flip my hair over, start at the ends of my hair, and then work it up towards my roots. Then I dry as I normally do. 

what I like:

They're not lying when they say it isn't going to cause any crunch. I've tried some cheap mousses in the past that did leave my hair crunchy, and that doesn't happen with the Oribe Mousse. That's not to say that you won't feel it in your hair, because you will, but it's definitely not the crunch I remember from high school.

And my curls really did last longer, which is the whole reason I even started using it in the first place! It's not perfect, and they did loosen up quite a bit, but I noticed a visible difference in how long the curls lasted throughout the day. My hair just overall looked thicker and bouncier than it normally does. 

Lastly, while I enjoyed the smell of the Oribe texturizing spray, it could be overpowering at times. The mousse barely has a smell at all, which is great. 

what I don't like:

What I liked about the Aveda volumizing tonic is that it does give you volume without make you feel like you have product in your hair. I can't say the same for the Oribe mousse - it does make your hair feel just a bit stickier than it does on its own. That means you feel you have to wash it sooner because it feels greasier. I also think it makes my hair the next day look a bit flatter. That's definitely the trade-off between having naturally smooth hair, and having hair that holds a curl. 

Also, lets be honest, $38 for a bottle of mousse is a bit (!!!) outrageous. 

would I buy this again? 

I don't think so - it's just too expensive for something I could maybe get at a lower price point. I love the results on the first day I use it though, and I do really enjoy that it makes my curls last longer, so I intend to use it on days I need them to not disappear in ten minutes, but I don't think I'll be buying a second bottle. I will look for a slightly more reasonably priced mousse though, so if you have any recommendations, I'd love to hear them!

ps. that's the Target organizer I was talking about a few weeks ago! Isn't it cute?!

i get it from my mama

I loved this outfit, partially because my new poncho is so darn comfortable, but mostly because it reminded me of something my mom would 100% wear (I'm sure she's actually worn this exact outfit and I'm just copying her). When someone asks me who my style inspiration is, my answer is always the same - my mom! She has such a knack for putting cute outfits together, pairing unexpected pieces with one another, and just always looks so nice. While I've somehow turned into the "go-to fashion girl" in my family because of my blog, she's really the person who knows what she's doing.

I'm just faking it for the internet ;)

Poncho: Nordstrom [exact]

Tee: Banana Republic [similar on sale]

Pants: Express [exact]

Boots: Vince Camuto [exact]

Purse: Coach [mine is vintage from Etsy - it is called the Willis bag]

Watch: c/o Daniel Wellington [exact for 50% off!]

Bracelet: gift from my friend Lizzi [very similar]

My poncho has been popping back in and out of inventory, so below are three options at three different price points. Which one is your favorite (and also...who is your style inspiration?)

save | spend | splurge

top three [01.24.2016]

favorite :)

medicine

• They always teach us that a good history and physical exam can basically tell you everything you need to know about your patient. There are so many physical manifestations of internal diseases - Janeway lesions are an example of that. They are little lesions on the palms or soles that are indicative of bacterial endocarditis (although they are apparently extremely rare manifestations - none of my attendings have actually ever seen them). 
• If you are diabetic, but don't know it (or are non-complaint with your medications), you can go into DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis). One of the hallmarks of this is often a "fruity breathe" due to the ketones the body is producing. Until Janeway lesions, this is a very common finding in DKA patients, and something I smelled this week for the first time. 
• Another physical manifestation is the Trousseau sign of latent tetany, which is a sign of hypocalcemia. Another name that has been used is "main d'accoucheur", which translates to hand of the obstetrician because it apparently looks like the hand position of someone delivering a baby. Here's a quick 20 second video showing what it looks like. 

on the internet

• I love the way all of colors came together in Hallie's outfit - plus you guys know I always approve of the #hussyankles in the winter!
• How freaking chic is Tam in a recent work outfit of hers? It almost makes me want to wear heels to work. Almost ;)
• Merrick shares her tips for cleaning converse (one of my closet staples!). Definitely throwing mine in the wash the next time I wash towels. 

spotted

• Has anyone tried these Henley blouses from NYDJ? They look really cute and come in a bunch of different colors and patterns (my favorite is berry pacifica!). A bit pricey for what they are...but cute!
• With the current discount, this new open front cardigan is under $30 (and definitely looks like it costs more!). Old Navy is consistently killing it lately. 
• How fun are these rose gold loafers from Sole Society?! Since I only wear flats to work, I'm always look for shoes that are fun but also comfortable. 

ask me anything

• What are your tips for keeping your energy levels up (food, vitamins, exercise, dance parties, etc.) 
• Dance parties are definitely at the top of the list, as lame as it sounds. But my roommate and I truly had dance parties at least several times a week throughout the first two years of school. Hans was often involved (he loved it, promise). Now I would definitely say that listening to louder music in the morning wakens me up, as well as an iced coffee a few times a week ;) But I do think that eating a healthy diet (most of the time) and having a regular sleep cycle does help a lot with energy levels as well. I wish there was an easier/less lame answer though!
• How did you get through the tough times during 1st and 2nd year when everyone is studying nonstop and it's gross/dark outside all the time? I feel guilty for taking breaks, but have totally lost myself here in exhaustion and feeling stupid. How did you juggle life with boards + school + bf and not go crazy?
• I'll be honest, the first two years of medical school kind of suck. They are a wonderful time because you are finally doing the thing you've always wanted to do, every day you get to learn something new, and it's really an opportunity that not many get. But, it's also a time where you are constantly stressed, you don't get nights and weekends anymore, and you always feel behind and that you don't know enough. You just have to find ways to get through it. Really enjoy the nights after exams - get pizza with friends, go watch a movie, get a good nights sleep. Find ways to spend time with friends that pulls double duty - my bff and I used to go to the gym three times a week just so we could talk while on the ellipticals. If you're at the library with your friends and truly doing work (instead of messing around), taking a break every three hours and go on a quick walk - it really is a great mini break to get some fresh air, bitch about studying, and then feel better when you sit back down. Make studying as comfortable and relaxing as you can - at home I always studied with a heating blanket on my lap (bonus is that I always had a cat or dog at my feet), and at the library I always made sure to have an iced coffee and my favorite headphones on (I love the epic station on pandora!). And just remember to breath once in a while, so if you just can't take another minute of reading Robbins, go watch an episode of your favorite show because bad studying is pointless. 
• How long did it take you to make a profit from your blog?
• If you use an affiliate company like ShopStyle, you can make money pretty much right away (although it may take quite a bit to get to the $100 payout). I've been blogging for almost four years, but I would say that I didn't get regularly monthly payouts for a year, and didn't make my current level of income until about 2.5 years into it. 

on franish

• on the blog: my experiences with using a tretinoin cream
• on the instagram: sometimes it is just necessary to curl your hair, even if you don't have to (my shoes are old and from Target, but this pair is almost the exact same!)
• on the twitter: seriously, we see you buying followers!

notable sales

• Anthropologie: 40% off sale items!
• Trina Turk's tote is now 1/3 of the original price! I love both the main pattern, and the pattern on the included pouch. 
• How freaking cute is this polka dot shirt dress? Love. If my size wasn't sold out, I would definitely order it. 
• Pick up a couple of these satin-trimmed tees as they now under $20 (go for the blush or the blue!!)
• Banana Republic: extra 50% off sale items
• I saw this cardigan in stores yesterday, and it is so soft. If I could wear whatever I wanted every day, I would just wear that. 
• I'm definitely ordering this tie blouse though - blush or white? I can't decide, I love both!
• Their scalloped blouses are fun...plus it comes in several colors!
• J.Crew
• I love their striped tippi sweater (it also comes in red). 
• Their pencil skirts don't always go on sale, so now would be a good time to pick one (or a couple) up!
• Pop-pom hats are the only good thing about snowstorms, amiright? 

personal

• CR and I took a little day trip down to Pittsburgh yesterday - we initially went because we had to get paperwork done for school, but then did a bit of shopping and then got the best sushi. And then spend the whole night watching The Office (because we are only 11 years behind). 
• We're looking to do a few DIYs around the house in the next few months, including finding/making new legs for our couch, and legs for our TV stand (our first almost Ikea hack). Any tips for newbies?  
• Hansi is 6.5 years old now, and so even though he acts like a puppy, his body says otherwise. He's been having some back problems again, and it just breaks my heart to see him in pain :(

my closet staples

It's been a good three years since I started working on building a cohesive wardrobe, and while I don't think there is ever a final perfect closet, I am very happy with where I'm at currently. The following are the items that I grab for the most, the items you may see on here the most (although many are worn in real life more than you see on here), and items that I have found to be the most versatile.

While I don't think I would ever do a capsule collection (it just doesn't make a lot of sense for my current life), these are the 32 items I would pick if someone made me choose! I was going to tell you guys about them all individually but I found myself writing "this is my favorite XX" or "I wear this all the time!" so...I stopped that. So...these are my favorites and I wear them all the time. Any questions? Ask away in the comments!

tops

Boden breton top [seen here] 

Everlane cashmere sweater [seen here] 

J.Crew Factory blouse [seen here]

J.Crew chambray [seen here]

Everlane tees [seen here]

BB Dakota cardigan [seen here]

bottoms

J.Crew Factory skirt [seen here]

Paige black jeans [seen here]

Madewell skinny jeans [seen here]

Express ponte pants [seen here]

The Limited Ankle Pants [seen here]

toppers

H&M blazer [seen here]

Paige jean jacket [seen here]

Olive jacket (I actually have 2 different ones)

shoes

Hunter boots [seen here]

Cognac Vince Camuto boots [seen here]

Black Vince Camuto boots [seen here]

Madewell leopard flats [seen here]

Ferragamo red flats [seen here]

J.Crew Factory wedges [seen here - I also have them in black]
Tory Burch flats [seen here]

Converse [seen here]

Jack Rogers sandals [seen here]

accessories
Nordstrom tan scarf [seen here]
Daniel Wellington watch [50% off! seen here]
J.Crew Factory necklace [seen here]
Coach purse [seen here]
Ann Taylor scarf
Michael Kors watch [seen here]

Madewell tote [seen here]

lounging favorites
LL bean sweater [seen here]
Zella leggings 
J.Crew Factory socks

wishlist items
red crossbody, like the chloe marcie bag
distressed black jeans, like these from paige
classic pearl earrings

beauty tuesday: my experiences with retin-a micro gel

This past August, I had my first appointment with a dermatologist to start my tattoo removal process (I have a small star on my wrist from a poor decision ten years ago). Because I was already there, I asked my doctor about what can be done about larger pores. I have pretty large pores on my nose that have always bothered me, but I haven't found anything that actually reduces them in size, so I wanted an expert's opinion. Unfortunately, she said that pore size is genetic and not much can be done to change that, but she has seen some success with a tretinoin cream, and since I had a bit of acne on my chin, it may be successful for me for both of my concerns.

Tretinoin causes skin cells to divide and die more rapidly, which increases epidermal turnover, while also stimulating collagen and elastin. The end results is that the new cells should replace the cells of acne, wrinkled, and hyper-pigmented skin (this article describes it in more detail if you are interested).  My skin concerns are really the hyper-pigmentation from acne scars, occasional pimples, and now that I'm in my late twenties, starting to be more proactive against wrinkles, so this seemed like a great option for me. Cost all depends on your insurance, but with my insurance and a coupon card from my doctor, it ended up not costing me anything out of pocket.

I was prescribed the 0.08% Retin-A Micro, and have been using it for four months now. Because I have fairly sensitive skin, I continue to use it the same I did when I started. Every other night, I wash my face, then wait a minute or so to make sure my face is truly dry. Then I use about a chickpea size of the gel, and rub a small amount on each section of my face. I then follow up with generous amount of Vanicream, a horribly-named but efficient moisturizer recommended by my dermatologist.

For the first week or so, I didn't really notice any difference in my skin. Then all of a sudden, my skin started to peel like crazy. Ugh, it was so so bad for quite a few weeks. There was just nothing I could do to get my skin from peeling - I tried gentle exfoliation, extra moisturizing, different moisturizers, less of the gel, more of the gel, layered under and over moisturizer. I probably was in that state for a good month.

I would say that for the last month or so, so about three months after I started using the Retin-A micro gel, my skin is finally getting over the peeling and dryness side effects. Things that have worked well for me are: gentle exfoliation with a konjac sponge every time I shower, using the First Aid Beauty Hydrating Gel every morning (review here), using the Vanicream at night, and using the Origins Drink Up Mask on nights when I don't use the gel.

So the results have been pretty good and worth it, in my opinion. I think the biggest thing I've noticed is that my hyper-pigmentation has drastically decreased. I used the picture below in my review of Paula's Choice BHA toner, but you can see how the acne scars really have almost disappeared from where I was a year ago. I think the BHA toner helps me a lot more with my acne than the Retin-A micro, just because I forgot to use the toner for like two weeks a few weeks ago, and my skin really blew up. But my scarring is decreased, my acne is reduced (from a combined effort, it seems), and I would say my skin overall is more even. I don't know if it has really had an effect on "wrinkles" because although I have some fine lines around my eyes, I don't really have that many wrinkles yet. And while the original reason for starting the cream was for enlarged pores, I haven't really noticed a change in them - they are still as present as they were before :/

Retin-A micro is a prescription medication, and with all medications that are certain side effects. Of particular importance if you are female is that this is a Category C drug that has shown to have adverse effects on fetuses, so if you are or planning on being pregnant in the near future, this prescription drug isn't recommended. It's not to the level of Accutane (a Category X drug) so you don't have to prove that you aren't pregnant/be on several modes of birth control, but definitely worthy of noting. I am actively trying not to get pregnant at this moment of time, so this didn't change anything for me, but will be something to consider in the future.

So that has been my experience with starting and continuing to use Retin-A micro. I am very happy with my results, especially now that I have figured out how to control the flaking, so I intend to use it for the long-term. Several of you have asked about my experiences using a tretinoin cream, so I hope that answers some of your questions! Have any of you had success with a prescription tretinoin cream?

Disclaimer: I am not yet a doctor, nor would I ever give medical advice on the internet. I'm just a girl sharing my experiences with a prescription medication - this is not medical advice. Please talk to your own doctor if you are interested in starting this medication! 

all staples, no flash

I'm in the process of writing a "what are my closet staples" post, and I realize now that that every single item in this outfit is in that category. From my second pair of ponte pants to cognac boots to a neutral oversized scarf, these are items I grab for over and over again. While they aren't always the most exciting items, they are the ones I'm most loyal to!

Blouse: Banana Republic [cute similar on sale]

Pants: Express [exact - review here]

Boots: Vince Camuto [exact]

Jacket: Old Navy [similar below]

Scarf: Nordstrom [exact]

Watch: Michael Kors [save | exact]

and because my Old Navy coat is older and no longer available, here are three options in three price ranges. I think my favorite is the spend version, which comes in three colors and is marked down!

save (<$25) | spend (<$100) | splurge (< $200)

ps. sorry for the lack of pictures where my head isn't chopped off or down - it was super windy this day, and my camera died within a minute of taking pictures! but with a lack of days to take pictures currently, I still wanted to share this set of pictures because I loved the outfit :)

top three [01.17.2016]

three of my favorite bloopers from this week's post

medicine

• We learned about the Zika virus a few weeks ago during an infectious disease lecture, but it recently has been making the news because US travel officials have now advised pregnant women not to travel to certain Central and South American countries. Zika virus is transmitted by mosquitos, and experts believe that it is causing microcephaly in the fetuses of pregnant women. 
• Anasarca is the medical term for whole body edema. One thing you'll see easily is pitting edema - here's an idea of what that looks like. 
• Hepatitis C is a virus transmitted through dirty needles or sexually. In the long term, it can lead to liver cancer or cirrhosis. There is finally a cure for it...although it'll set you back $100,000 out of pocket!

on the internet

• Really enjoyed Sabrina's recent rundown of her favorite masks. I've added a few of her recommendations to my wishlists! 
• Elyse's thoughts on "being nice" are so well articulated and really hit home for me. In recent years, I too have found that being nice is just...easier...and makes life so much happier. On a side note, Elyse is one of my new favorite reads. She's an intern (starting her derm training this summer!) so she always has really interesting things going on in her life, and I have found she is just really wise. Fangirling a bit, maybe ;)
• I love how Jess is taking parts of her closet she hasn't worn, and styles them three different ways. Check out how she wears a pair of blue dress pants (something I also own and also don't wear often) here, here, and here (my favorite!)!

spotted

• While I didn't jump on the lace-up flat trend when it first started (it was too close to winter), I'm fully preparing myself to join in the spring. I'll probably try for this pretty blush pair from Halogen - or in black? Hmmm.
• It's a litttttle early to discuss spring clothes (it's like 5 degrees out today!), but how fun is this patterned chambray dress? I think it would work even in chillier temps with boots and a jacket!
• One of my "goals" for the years is to be a bit more organized than I already am. I have quite a few bath/beauty items just tossed into the deep cabinets of our bathroom, so I'd love to add this beautiful organizer to keep a few of the nicer products out. Can you believe that's from Target? I love it (ps. just noticed it's on sale now! I added in the marble canister that is also on sale to get free shipping)

ask me anything

• How did it work with your clinical rotations? Does your school only work with specific hospitals, and you get to choose which one you go to? Or do they just randomly assign you? Or is there a third option that I've missed? 
• For our core rotations, we have a group of affiliate hospitals who agree to take a group of students. That's our yearlong site where we do the majority of our third year rotations. To choose our hospitals, we all ranked them, and then we were assigned based on our ranking. CR got our first choice, and I got my second choice - we chose our rankings based on the fact that these were the only two hospitals close enough to each other. At my school we have two electives during third year, and we can do those anywhere. 
• I am curious about your decision to go into OB. I loved the field when I was in medical school as well but decided the lifestyle wasn't something I could make work with my life (my then boyfriend and now husband is in medicine too!) How do you plan to handle the hours and demanding schedule? I know many hospitals require an in house OB 24/7 and I've heard it's only second to trauma surgery in difficulty of attending lifestyle. It wasn't something that I felt I could make work for my family so I'm curious if you've considered this! 
• Great question, and it's something that I think about a lot. My thoughts are that for residency, you are going to work a ton of hours no matter what you go into. It's a busy time for everyone. Once I am done with residency, my hope is to find an OB group like the one my hospital has. They work a 24 hour shift on the L&D floor every 7-10 days, and work one weekend every two months. Otherwise they work in the clinic and do their surgeries one day a week. I think this makes the lifestyle a bit more normal. In the end, my thoughts are that I would much rather work doing something I truly enjoy, rather than settling for something I'm not as interested in just because of "the lifestyle". 
• I really like the little dainty necklace that you wear most days. I have been after something similar for ages. Would you mind telling us where it is from?
• Mine was a family heirloom I received for my 18th birthday from my mom. The style is pretty common though - it's called a floating diamond. Here's the same style for under $70!

on franish

• on the blog: a serum that will make your winter skin thank you (have any of you tried it yet?)
• on the instagram: I'm obsessed with my LL Bean sweater - I promise I wash it! Save 10% and get free shipping with code SNOW10
• on the twitter: <500 days now!

notable sales

• Ann Taylor: 40% off new arrivales + an extra 60% off sale items
• I have this "blanket" scarf and it is SO soft and the perfect oversized but not giant scarf. It's under $30 now!
• How gorgeous is this lace dress? Looks like a few more of my friends need to get married this year so I have a reason to wear it. 
• I'm a bit in love with this yoke top - it comes in tall, so it maybe wouldn't be super boxy on. I think it would look amazing with some skinny jeans and fun flats. I just ordered it in a tall medium and large so I'll let you guys know what I think when it arrives!
• Loft: 40% off everything + 60% off sale items
• I kind of love the idea of this blanket skirt - the colors are bright but fairly neutral, and is just so darn pretty. Maybe not the most versatile, but pretty!
• But speaking of versatile, their fringe trim cardigan would be so versatile! Think of it with jeans like on the model, or with a simple black sheath dress, or with dress pants. See, versatile!
• And in the sales section, a lace v-neck dress that comes in both maroon and black, and has almost sizes available in regular, petites, and talls!
• Madewell: extra 30% off sale items
• Their skinny skinny style of jeans is my absolute favorite pair of jeans!
• If you have a warm weather trip coming up, I'd definitely consider this wrap-front cami dress. It has pockets!
• And if you are staying in the colder weather, then their oversized buffalo shirt would be the perfect thing to keep you warm - pair it with riding boots and a big comfy scarf.
• PS: Shopbop's sale section has some great items right now. Check out the cute clutches from Oliveve - my favorite is the wine one! Their converse section also has quite a few options on sale now and there are quite a few good options for black jeans as well. 

personal

• It was quite a busy week this week in the hospital, but it's been a really great one. We had some really interesting cases, I got to help intubate a patient (my first time!), and just all around enjoyed being there. I didn't think I would really like IM, but it's really at the heart of medicine, so I have really been excited to learn something new every day.
• We went to the most amazing brunch yesterday with one of our favorite couples - we had biscuits and gravy, biscuit sandwiches, and the most amazing french toast bread pudding. Can we have brunch for every meal? 
• Anyone watch any good series lately? I'm itching to start a new series, but haven't really found anything good yet. Only three more months until Game of Thrones finally starts again!!

bloop bloop!

sweater // pants // similar boots // original post

dotted + spotted

Sooooo....these pictures are from like 6 weeks ago. Oops! Wearing scrubs almost every day has really put a damper on blogging. Good news is that my next rotation has a lot of clinic time, so in case you have just been dying for more work-appropriate outfit posts, you're maybe in luck ;)

Anyway - this outfit is from the first time I wore this polka dot blouse, but it certainly hasn't been the last time I've worn it since! I've been reaching for it every weekend and it's just so fun to wear. Unfortunately it sold out pretty quickly, but I found a few alternatives below. I'm excited to pair it with a skirt next!

Blouse: Loft 

Pants: The Limited [exact]

Bag: Mulberry via eBay [save | exact]

Shoes: Tory Burch [save | exact]

Scarf: H&M [similar]

Watch: c/o Daniel Wellington [exact]

Here are a few similar polka dot shirts out there, both in white on black and black on white. My favorite is the Foxcroft version - I just think it would look so cute tucked into some dark wash jeans! Loft has the white on black version of my shirt currently available as well. 

one | two | three

four | five | six

beauty tuesday: first aid beauty ultra repair hydrating serum

A few weeks ago on my Fresh face oil review, one of my readers Musja mentioned that an oil may not give me the moisture my skin needs, and to try a serum instead. I didn't really know where to start when it came to looking for a serum, so I went to my go-to beautypedia to see what they recommended. The highest rated item was the Hydrating Serum from First Aid Beauty, and after reading a few other reviews, I quickly ordered myself a bottle. I generally like to wait several weeks before doing a skincare review, but I have had such great results so far that I felt I needed to share, especially since the winter weather is just starting to really hit a lot of us!

what it promises:
Formulated for all skin types, this hydrating gel instantly infuses skin with optimal hydration to plump and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid—a moisture-locking agent that stores up to 1,000 times its molecular weight in water—helps hydrate, hydrate, plump, and nourish. Antiaging peptides help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while collagen helps increase firmness and elasticity, restore texture, and replenish skin. Ultra Repair’s signature ingredient, colloidal oatmeal, along with aloe leaf juice calm and soothe irritated skin for an allover healthy-looking complexion. This water-based gel penetrates immediately into the skin leaving behind an invisible shield that seals in hydration. Its lightweight texture makes it perfect for layering under your favorite AM and PM moisturizers. 

how I use it:
In the morning, after I've washed my face and applied the Paula's Choice Exfoliant to problem areas, I use about half of a squirt on the dry areas of my face, which is typically around my mouth, the apples of my cheeks, and between my eyebrows. Once dry, I follow up with my CeraVe moisturizer.

what I like:
If the Fresh face oil was helping my dryness by 25%, the First Aid serum is helping it by 85%. From the first day I used it, I noticed a huge decrease in the flakiness of my skin. This has been a HUGE change for me - my face has been so dry and peeling the weeks before that that I really noticed a change. I used to have to go into the bathroom several times a day just to scarp the flakes off - and since starting to use the serum, I haven't had to do that once. I have been using the serum for 10 days now, and haven't had a single horrible flaky day yet. 

In an additional plus over the face oil, it doesn't leave any slickness to my skin at all. With the oil I always knew if I used even one drop too many that my skin could stay oily (and still flaky) for the whole day. This hasn't happened at all with the serum/gel since it absorbs right into the skin.

That is my personal experience with the serum - here is the beautypedia review that goes a bit into the ingredients and why it works (backed by published scientific research). Many of you have recommended finding a product with hyaluronic acid in it, which this serum has, and you guys were so right - it really does help with keeping my skin calm and moisturized!

what I don't like:
Like I said, I would say this is making my skin 85% better - I don't think any one product will really get me to 100% perfect dewy skin (is that even attainable? who knows). I wouldn't say that the product is sticky or leaves a residue by any means, but it definitely doesn't feel as luxurious and smooth as face oils do. Besides the price ($36 for 1 oz), those are really the only "downsides" I have found with this product. 

would I buy this again? 
Based on results, I would definitely buy the First Aid Hydrating Serum again. Since this is my first experience with serums and hyaluronic acid, I may test out a few other products once this bottle is done, but I see no reason other than that not to buy another bottle in the future. 

top three [01.10.2015]

medicine

• Myxedema is a word used to describe the changes seen in extreme hypothyroidism (but also sometimes in hyperthyroidism - the thyroid is a bit tricky like that!). This can cause bradycardia (slow heart rate) or hypotension (low blood pressure), puffiness around the eyes, an enlarged tongue, ascites, and tibial swelling. 
• How the heart develops in an embyro is one of the coolest processes we have learned about - here's a video that demonstrates all the changes the heart goes through to become a "normal" heart. As you can see, there are a ton of different ways the process can go wrong. A ventricular septal defect is a hole in the wall between your ventricles, the lower chambers of your heart. Sometimes the holes will spontaneously close on their own, but sometimes they stay open. This causes a murmur - I actually heard one this week!
• Culture Bound Syndromes are a combination of pyschiatric and somatic symptoms that are found only within a certain culture. If you have the time, this is a pretty interesting article on some of them.

on the internet

• Kimi details her best and worst purchases of the year - I love reading her reasoning behind each piece, and how she is using that to drive her purchases this year. 
• Like I've mentioned, we have become addicted to HGTV lately because we are hoping to buy a home when we move next year, so I'm already so excited to finally have a place I can do what I want to. I loved seeing all of what Amanda accomplished in her home this year. I love seeing what "normal" people are able to accomplish, and how great it turns out for them!
• LOVED Sarah's post about getting back into shape for reasons that actually matter.

spotted

• I have wanted a gently distressed pair of jeans for so long, but I also don't want to pay designer-level prices for a pair of jeans that aren't something I'd wear all the time. While this pair from BLANKNYC is still expensive, it isn't in the $200 price range (although they look like they are!). They have just the right amount of distressing, don't you think? 
• A comfy faux fur vest is something I've wanted, but also not something I've wanted to spend a lot of $$$ on, so not only is this rose version from Target exactly what I want, but it's inexpensive as well!
• As much as I love my comfy scrubs every day, I kind of miss my real clothes too! These fun mosaic printed pants are just begging to be worn! 

ask me anything

• Are your ferragamo shoes comfortable? They are certainly beautiful and I have considered saving up (for a long time) to get a pair, but I am just concerned they will disappoint by being horrible blister traps.
• I do think initially that my Ferragamo flats [seen here] were a bit stiffer than other shoes and harder to break in. I also wouldn't say they are shoes you want to wear if you know you are going to do a ton of walking all day. I wear them on days that I know I'll be sitting more, or at least on days where I'm not walking long distances. That being said, I do think once your feet are used to them and them are a bit broken in that they are very comfortable shoes to wear! Plus they make me so happy to wear whenever I get to wear them. They are very very pricey but are definitely something worthy of saving up for - or searching on ebay for!
• Is what you learn in the classroom applicable in your rotations? Have you found that you have used what you have learned from the text books with your patients or is it "learn as you go" from your mentor doctors?
• Oh god, it's so applicable! The first two years of medical school are for us as students to learn how the body actually works, and to have a general understanding of all of the diseases. Once you get to the hospital floor, you never know what you are going to see, so you can't always prepare for the patients, so you kind of have to know something about everything. Having the first two years as a foundation is wonderful to now build on with we learn in actually diagnosing and treating the patient. You could never do the second part of school without the first! It is still "learn as you go" though, because what the text book says and what is actually done in a hospital may be different, plus you can't really learn the management of a patient through a book. 
• I was wondering how you met CR? Is he a medical student as well?
• He is! We met during our first year of school - our last names are next to each other in the alphabet, so we were partners in a lot of things. We started off as friends for most of first year, and towards the end realized it was more than that :)

notable sales

• Anthropologie: 25% off sale items
• Still way too expensive, but this floral skirt is SO FREAKING GORGEOUS. 
• Also pricey but maybe a bit more practical are their floral sneakers - how fun would they be to wear in gloomier weather? 
• With the promotion, this jacquard peplum top is now almost 1/3 of the original price. Wear it with black skinny jeans and heels!
• J.Crew: 40% off certain items + 40% off sale items
• How freaking cute is their blue + white gingham vest? WANT. It would make such a great transition piece in the spring. 
• I've heard such great things about the J.Crew ballet flats, and now their many colors are on sale! 
• It's almost sad how bad I want this cotton pj set - the red is so freaking cute!
• Shopbop
• Quite a few cute Kate Spade bags currently on sale - my favorite is the mini tote in blush!
• I've always loved Sam Edelman shoes. I have a pair of his flats that are so comfy. Some of his most classic styles are on sale too!
• Even though spring is months away, retailers are starting to kick out their winter gear for spring clothes, which makes it the perfect time to pick up a sweater you can still wear for months. 

on franish

• on the blog: sharing what a day on internal medicine looks like
• on the instagram: who needs a reason to celebrate when you have champagne gummies? YUM.
• on the twitter: I'm committing to watching The Bachelor this season (whoa, dream big) but ugh, I just cringe the entire time! but still, so good, amiright? 

personal

• I'm officially half way through my general IM rotation, and I can honestly say that I am really enjoying it! I feel this is the rotation I've grown the most in my medical knowledge and in my role as a future physician. Not to say that I'm not counting the days until my next OB rotation (only eight more weeks!) but I have been pleasantly surprised how much I've been enjoying this service. 
• We finally took our Christmas decorations down this weekend - everything is just prettier when there are lights up! 
• Has the weather been unseasonably warm for you too this winter? We haven't even had a real snowfall yet...but it's supposed to snow this entire week and I am NOT looking forward to it. 

day in the life: internal medicine

5:35: alarm. snooze.

5:48: whoops. time to get up! I kick the cat out of bed, go brush my teeth and wash my face. I just started using a serum from First Aid, but besides that, my morning routine is the same as always. A light foundation, blush, eyeliner, eyebrow powder, and mascara.  

6:05: All done!