I know it's not January 7th, but I have to cut my project short! I know it sounds like I'm flaking out on it, but I started this project back in August and I just have to stop. It is not a matter of insecurity or anything like that, but I actually need to protect my skin.
You may think that makeup is just used to improve your appearance, but I learned over the course of the project that it actually works to protect your skin! I was beginning to have really bad breakouts because my makeup wasn't there to protect my skin from some harsh germs our body encounters every day. Even my phone alone is probably covered in germs, and without my makeup to protect from it, I was getting bad breakouts. I'm not going to wear a lot of makeup and I probably will still go a lot of days without it, but I just have to do this for my skin! (Also makeup can be used to protect you from harmful sun rays, who knew?!)
But I still challenge you to do this if you rely on makeup. You do not need makeup to be beautiful or the right hairstyle or clothing choice, you don't need to be a size 0. Throw your hair back in that pony tail, and definitely remove any layers that you hide behind regardless of the avenue you choose to hide with. Stop running yourself ragged with those workouts, and starving yourself. Or stop spending hundreds on the perfect outfit or that manicure. You are beautiful in those sweatpants and a tee shirt!
Things I learned:
1. Makeup is actually good for your skin and can be beneficial! (Ironic to say the least)
2. I LOVE makeup (bet you weren't expecting that one)
3. I am beautiful without makeup
4. The world is filled with beautiful people, and most of them shine with inner beauty. The mom of four kids who gives all she can. I have seen a lot of those women, and they are so beautiful.
5. People like to be told that they are beautiful, sometimes they react weirdly but most people get really excited when you just tell them the truth!
6. Oh, and my new favorite game. It's called, "Pick one thing to compliment about every single person you see, and focus on that." Long title, it's still in the works. But every person you pass think, "I like her hat." "Wow, her hair is so pretty." "He has a great smile!" "I love those shoes." And you do that to every single person you see. So much fun! And it makes you feel really good inside.
7. Friends and family should be told how much they are loved more often.
8. Inspiring others is incredibly fun sometimes.
9. Not everyone will support you, but it's okay!
10. BeYOUtiful! Be you- it is the most beautiful, most worthwhile person you can be. And people love it when you are yourself.
With Love,
Nina
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Once upon a Buckeye...
So, currently I live in the beautiful and wonderful town of Bowling Green, OH and I absolutely love it.
I do not want to put down this place in any way, but there was a time way back when as a young whipper snapper when I lived in a little place called....
COLUMBUS, OHIO!!!!!! C-Bus if you will. Aka the Buckeye State.
There are few things I refuse to stop doing, and cheering for O-H-I-O is one of those things. You see, both of my mom's brothers played for Ohio State back in the day, and I was born to respond positively whenever I see those marvelous colors: scarlet & gray!
Yesterday, my beloved Buckeyes beat that awful team up north and finished their winning season with 12 wins and 0 losses. Words cannot even express how excited I got, and how much I just love this team. Also, yesterday Jim Tressel and an alumni team crossed the field in recognition and he received a standing ovation from the roaring crowd. As I watched Tressel cross the field, and heard the words, "Once a buckeye, always a buckeye," I actually cried. This man has great controversy around him, but I will never for a second forget all he is and all he means to the Buckeye Nation. I love that bond that this team brings with my family, my friends, and others who cheer for these wonderful players.
No matter where I go, "Once a buckeye, always a buckeye," will remain true.
With Love,
No Make-Up Nina
I do not want to put down this place in any way, but there was a time way back when as a young whipper snapper when I lived in a little place called....
COLUMBUS, OHIO!!!!!! C-Bus if you will. Aka the Buckeye State.
 |
| Me cheering on the bucks probably. (Making pops proud) |
Yesterday, my beloved Buckeyes beat that awful team up north and finished their winning season with 12 wins and 0 losses. Words cannot even express how excited I got, and how much I just love this team. Also, yesterday Jim Tressel and an alumni team crossed the field in recognition and he received a standing ovation from the roaring crowd. As I watched Tressel cross the field, and heard the words, "Once a buckeye, always a buckeye," I actually cried. This man has great controversy around him, but I will never for a second forget all he is and all he means to the Buckeye Nation. I love that bond that this team brings with my family, my friends, and others who cheer for these wonderful players.
No matter where I go, "Once a buckeye, always a buckeye," will remain true.
 |
| Go BUCKS! O-H-I-O |
Summer's heat or winter's cold
The seasons pass the years will roll
Time and change will surely show
How firm thy friendship Ohio.
With Love,
No Make-Up Nina
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
20! Still Young & Fun.
Sweet goodness, I cannot believe that I am twenty years old! When the heck did that happen?! I am two decades old...aka an old woman. When I was a kid, I thought 20 was the age to be married and have kids. I mean if that's you, then that's fine but I am not ready yet!
Anyways, my birthday was two days ago and this new age is still sinking in. It hasn't quite hit me yet. Hot dang, I am so old.
This is weekend was kind of hard because my family ridiculed me a lot for this blog thing, which is fine
because they are my family and they can do that. Especially my sister, but I just gave it right back to her. She just kept saying, "I don't get it. I just don't get it. You can't even explain it." I told her some things I wrote on my blog, but as I said the words I fell short in explaining it. Then I said, "It's just an adventure." I kid you not, that was all it took for her to understand why I'm not wearing makeup until Jan. 7th. Yes, I have other reasons, of course but this made sense to me too. My sister and I have always been keen on a good adventure. You might not know from looking at us, but we were world explorers as kids. Well just backyard explorers, but we had fun.
This weekend I thought about two of my favorite topics: Adventure & Childhood.
Usually I would take this time to delve into a long discussion with myself about why we should stay kids at heart and why we should always have a heart for adventure. Very important things, but instead I think I will just give a list of how to do these things.
20 Ways to Be an Adventurous Person!
Fall:
1. Collect leaves into a pile, and jump in them until your hearts content.
2. Carve silly pumpkins, and eat pumpkin seeds.
3. Climb a tree.
4. Go to a cornmaze, always a blast!
5. Go on a bike ride if you have Indian Summer (when the temperature gets weirdly hot in fall).
Winter:
1. Make a snow angel-lots of them!
2. Have a snowball fight. So much fun.
3. Make a snowman, and try to dress it in a unique way!
4. Go christmas caroling, even if your voice is terrible.
5. Go sledding, and bring homemade hot chocolate! Mhmm.
Spring:
1. Make a small garden (or big if you can do that!) Keep track of your flowers growth.
2. Jump in puddles! Lots of them.
3. Go on a hike or walk outside. See if you can find any animals or make whistles out of acorns.
4. Go to the park and swing, maybe pack a picnic.
5. Play hopscotch or a game that reminds you of your childhood.
Summer:
1. MUD FIGHT! No joke.
2. Turn on the sprinkler, regardless of your age, and play in it.
3. Make your own slip n' slide or play in one you own.
4. Make bubbles!
5. Have a squirt gun fight.
Have fun!
With Love,
No Make-up Nina
Anyways, my birthday was two days ago and this new age is still sinking in. It hasn't quite hit me yet. Hot dang, I am so old.
This is weekend was kind of hard because my family ridiculed me a lot for this blog thing, which is fine
because they are my family and they can do that. Especially my sister, but I just gave it right back to her. She just kept saying, "I don't get it. I just don't get it. You can't even explain it." I told her some things I wrote on my blog, but as I said the words I fell short in explaining it. Then I said, "It's just an adventure." I kid you not, that was all it took for her to understand why I'm not wearing makeup until Jan. 7th. Yes, I have other reasons, of course but this made sense to me too. My sister and I have always been keen on a good adventure. You might not know from looking at us, but we were world explorers as kids. Well just backyard explorers, but we had fun.
This weekend I thought about two of my favorite topics: Adventure & Childhood.
Usually I would take this time to delve into a long discussion with myself about why we should stay kids at heart and why we should always have a heart for adventure. Very important things, but instead I think I will just give a list of how to do these things.
20 Ways to Be an Adventurous Person!
Fall:
1. Collect leaves into a pile, and jump in them until your hearts content.
2. Carve silly pumpkins, and eat pumpkin seeds.
3. Climb a tree.
4. Go to a cornmaze, always a blast!
5. Go on a bike ride if you have Indian Summer (when the temperature gets weirdly hot in fall).
Winter:
1. Make a snow angel-lots of them!
2. Have a snowball fight. So much fun.
3. Make a snowman, and try to dress it in a unique way!
4. Go christmas caroling, even if your voice is terrible.
5. Go sledding, and bring homemade hot chocolate! Mhmm.
Spring:
1. Make a small garden (or big if you can do that!) Keep track of your flowers growth.
2. Jump in puddles! Lots of them.
3. Go on a hike or walk outside. See if you can find any animals or make whistles out of acorns.
4. Go to the park and swing, maybe pack a picnic.
5. Play hopscotch or a game that reminds you of your childhood.
Summer:
1. MUD FIGHT! No joke.
2. Turn on the sprinkler, regardless of your age, and play in it.
3. Make your own slip n' slide or play in one you own.
4. Make bubbles!
5. Have a squirt gun fight.
Have fun!
With Love,
No Make-up Nina
Monday, November 5, 2012
Be-You-tiful
I have learned a lot of really hard lessons during the course of this journey. Here's a few:
1. Be kind to those around you, every single person even if they aren't kind back.
2. Think of others before yourself, and try to limit the amount of times that you say I or me. Also, limit saying, "That happened to me once, but..." because if you are like me and you're trying to talk about yourself all the time, it just comes off as self-centered. (Oops sorry friends!)
3. Act like a fool. It makes life a lot more fun.
4. Pray like crazy. When someone asks for prayers, stop and pray in that moment. When something is hard in your life, pray for it. Pray for your family, your friends, even your pesky neighbor. Pray, pray, pray. And when you are done, pray.
5. And my favorite, do not try to be something that you are not.
I don't mean that you shouldn't grow and change, I am a HUGE advocate of growth. But I am not an encourager of trying to fit into a mold that you just were not designed to fit into. So many people say, "Today, I'm going to be like that person. They seem happy, and they always get what they want." That is just baloney on a stick. Period. Someone may be happy in their life, and that is something to be excited about for them. And even if you are unhappy in your own life, it doesn't mean you cannot achieve happiness. So many of our problems (especially us women) come from discontent hearts, jealousy, and the ever popular comparison game. I have run my self ragged these past few weeks trying to be a friend, a daughter, good in school, a mentor to high school girls, a sister, and a Christian that I am just dog tired. But I forgot to check where my confidence and my identity comes from-Jesus alone! That's the only thing I can boast about and the only thing that defines me. It might seem crazy to you or weird, but in my life it brings me hope in the darkest of days.
Grow, change, and continue to try your best. It is all anyone can ask for, your best. But give yourself some grace when you mess up. And please do us all a favor, don't try and be something you are not for anyone. Nothing good will come of that. Embrace that beautiful, awesome, and wonderful person you were created to be. Remember that, "comparison is the thief of joy." Do not let anything steal your joy, and I will try to do the same. Your family, your real friends, and the special person you love will adore you for YOU! What an awesome freedom that is.
And now some picts of my favorite thing: ACT A FOOL. Ha
To the right--my girl Allie & I at my house just being silly. She always knows how to make me laugh and smile.
My roommate from last year, Carley. She is always a great assist in acting a fool.
Oh, and me just being a nut in general. Basically on the daily.
So remember to be yourself & to just enjoy every single day!
With Love,
No Make-Up Nina
1. Be kind to those around you, every single person even if they aren't kind back.
2. Think of others before yourself, and try to limit the amount of times that you say I or me. Also, limit saying, "That happened to me once, but..." because if you are like me and you're trying to talk about yourself all the time, it just comes off as self-centered. (Oops sorry friends!)
3. Act like a fool. It makes life a lot more fun.
4. Pray like crazy. When someone asks for prayers, stop and pray in that moment. When something is hard in your life, pray for it. Pray for your family, your friends, even your pesky neighbor. Pray, pray, pray. And when you are done, pray.
5. And my favorite, do not try to be something that you are not.
I don't mean that you shouldn't grow and change, I am a HUGE advocate of growth. But I am not an encourager of trying to fit into a mold that you just were not designed to fit into. So many people say, "Today, I'm going to be like that person. They seem happy, and they always get what they want." That is just baloney on a stick. Period. Someone may be happy in their life, and that is something to be excited about for them. And even if you are unhappy in your own life, it doesn't mean you cannot achieve happiness. So many of our problems (especially us women) come from discontent hearts, jealousy, and the ever popular comparison game. I have run my self ragged these past few weeks trying to be a friend, a daughter, good in school, a mentor to high school girls, a sister, and a Christian that I am just dog tired. But I forgot to check where my confidence and my identity comes from-Jesus alone! That's the only thing I can boast about and the only thing that defines me. It might seem crazy to you or weird, but in my life it brings me hope in the darkest of days.
Grow, change, and continue to try your best. It is all anyone can ask for, your best. But give yourself some grace when you mess up. And please do us all a favor, don't try and be something you are not for anyone. Nothing good will come of that. Embrace that beautiful, awesome, and wonderful person you were created to be. Remember that, "comparison is the thief of joy." Do not let anything steal your joy, and I will try to do the same. Your family, your real friends, and the special person you love will adore you for YOU! What an awesome freedom that is.
And now some picts of my favorite thing: ACT A FOOL. Ha
My roommate from last year, Carley. She is always a great assist in acting a fool.
Oh, and me just being a nut in general. Basically on the daily.
So remember to be yourself & to just enjoy every single day!
With Love,
No Make-Up Nina
Friday, October 26, 2012
Cleaned and Cleared.
I feel like my face has felt so fresh since I have begun this project, and I wanted to pass on a food graph of what to eat for clear skin. I think this does a good job of explaining what foods are good for your skin, and why they are. I love the bad things a lot, but I do notice a difference if I try to eat things on the left side.
This is so helpful! You are so beautiful where you are, but I will continue to promote a healthy lifestyle on this blog and understanding that it is not a bad thing to desire a healthy body weight or clear skin. I hope you know you are still so lovely even if you don't have either of those things, but as I am trying to encourage myself to be healthier, I will encourage any readers as well.
Love,
No Make-Up Nina
Monday, October 22, 2012
Oops I Did It Again.
This weekend I drove home to Columbus to see my family, and we listened to Britney Spears on the way down (Hence the title). And it was an awesome time! My mom made me food, I saw some friends, and family. But here is the downside....
I totally messed up!!! We went to a party at a Young Life house on OSU's campus and I wore makeup there. I know it is not the worst thing and it was only for 3 hours, but I still feel really bad about it.
Today is a new day, and I felt so good. I have been consistently doing things that I think are keeping me feel healthy and my skin fresh!
Above: I got a new dress and new boots, and I just had to model them off!
<<Over to the left: My face without any makeup. I feel SO good.
Hopefully I can keep the rest of this journey up until Jan. 7th! It has been super hard somedays and often I want to wear my makeup but I am devoted to this thing, so I'm going to keep it up.
So Much Love,
No Make-Up Nina
I totally messed up!!! We went to a party at a Young Life house on OSU's campus and I wore makeup there. I know it is not the worst thing and it was only for 3 hours, but I still feel really bad about it.
 |
| My friend and I all dressed up for the party!!! |
1. Lots more fruits and veggies. So good and so good for you!
2. Water out the wazoo. I'm trying to kick my diet coke habit...key word: trying.
3. Washing my face daily and nightly. So simple, but makes a huge difference.
4. I take herbal supplements and my face reflects when I am doing well with that or not!
5. My secret zit cream that is 2 dollars at Walmart. It's a great product.
I made my friend take a picture of me because I actually tried to look decent. Here I am:
Above: I got a new dress and new boots, and I just had to model them off!
<<Over to the left: My face without any makeup. I feel SO good.
Hopefully I can keep the rest of this journey up until Jan. 7th! It has been super hard somedays and often I want to wear my makeup but I am devoted to this thing, so I'm going to keep it up.
So Much Love,
No Make-Up Nina
Sunday, October 14, 2012
28 Days
OH MY GOODNESS!!!! It has been 28 days without make-up and I feel....
Excited, happy, humbled, loved, supported, but also, tired, exhausted, unworthy, and scared! Wowza.
I am so excited and happy that so far I have made it this far, I never thought I could do something like this. I feel loved and supported by so many, maybe criticized by few but mostly loved. And often I have still felt tired, and like I cannot do it. Some days I feel I will fall over from insecurity, and other days I have never walked with more grace as confidence kicks in. I am not kidding when I say this, the thing I feel most right now is.... beautiful. It is not always true every day or most days, but I sit here with tears in my eyes as I write the truth. I am overwhelmed, and exhilarated by the truth! I am beautiful. Dang, that's so hard to believe sometimes, why is that?! Oh yes, because almost everything else in this world is trying to tell you that you are not.
I have had multiple people tell me they are doing this with me, and to those, thank you. Thank you for being vulnerable, and for stripping away the thick layers of outer beauty. You are some of the most beautiful people I have ever met. And you all inspire me more than my words can say.
I know I am not the most beautiful, and I never will be. But God loves me, and He finds me worthy. And quite frankly, His is the only opinion that really matters.
Excited, happy, humbled, loved, supported, but also, tired, exhausted, unworthy, and scared! Wowza.
I am so excited and happy that so far I have made it this far, I never thought I could do something like this. I feel loved and supported by so many, maybe criticized by few but mostly loved. And often I have still felt tired, and like I cannot do it. Some days I feel I will fall over from insecurity, and other days I have never walked with more grace as confidence kicks in. I am not kidding when I say this, the thing I feel most right now is.... beautiful. It is not always true every day or most days, but I sit here with tears in my eyes as I write the truth. I am overwhelmed, and exhilarated by the truth! I am beautiful. Dang, that's so hard to believe sometimes, why is that?! Oh yes, because almost everything else in this world is trying to tell you that you are not.
I have had multiple people tell me they are doing this with me, and to those, thank you. Thank you for being vulnerable, and for stripping away the thick layers of outer beauty. You are some of the most beautiful people I have ever met. And you all inspire me more than my words can say.
 |
| Feeling good! |
But in my opinion, whoever you may be, you are lovely and you are captivating. I hope you know that.
With Love,
No Make-Up Nina
Never Ever Settle
 |
| I say this all the time, never ever settle. |
"You may say I'm a dreamer. But I'm not the only one. I hope that one day you'll join us, and the world will be as one."--John Lennon
Monday, October 8, 2012
Let the Games Begin!
Yesterday was my last day for awhile! My last day with make-up, and I didn't even want to wear it!!!
Last week, I went six days of the week without wearing make-up and starting today I will go seven days of this week...aka the whole week. Which means for the next couple weeks I won't wear any make-up at all! I really hope I can do it. I already feel so so good.
Goal: No more make-up until Monday, January 7, 2013. I want to bring in the new year without make-up and I want to not even rely on it anymore.
Objective: Continuing to share with people that they are beautiful, and their image is perfect as is. Inspire others to love themselves, and destroy insecurities! Getting pumped up just as I write this.
I am scared. I feel very inadequate. My insecurities are quite apparent, but I am willing to go on.
Last week, I went six days of the week without wearing make-up and starting today I will go seven days of this week...aka the whole week. Which means for the next couple weeks I won't wear any make-up at all! I really hope I can do it. I already feel so so good.
Goal: No more make-up until Monday, January 7, 2013. I want to bring in the new year without make-up and I want to not even rely on it anymore.
Objective: Continuing to share with people that they are beautiful, and their image is perfect as is. Inspire others to love themselves, and destroy insecurities! Getting pumped up just as I write this.
I am scared. I feel very inadequate. My insecurities are quite apparent, but I am willing to go on.
 |
| Great message. You are more than the number on a scale. Your outward appearance does NOT determine your worth. |
Monday, October 1, 2012
It's A Nude Day.
I don't mean nude as I am running around like naked, just my face is! And today is day 16!!! I am feeling so good, and so confident in myself.
Today the sun is shining, and it is the first day of October. I love the weather in this time, the activities, and just the beauty of fall in general! This is the only time you get to watch the leaves change color, that is amazing! And yesterday we went apple picking. Oh my goodness gracious, it was so perfect.
 |
| Day 16 on the journey! I feel great. |
Take a look at our fun pictures!
I have just felt very beautiful recently on the outside, yes but more importantly with my heart. I am learning how to become patient, gentle, understanding, kind, and joyful. I mean I am far from perfect just like the next person, but I am growing into the woman I was made to be! (While still keeping my life fun and creative like a child.) I can't completely grow up, I mean I still love my adventures. Like tree climbing, not that I did that yesterday or anything. (I totally did it was wonderful!!!) But I just feel myself becoming a beautiful person through my words and my actions, not my exterior. It has been such a wonderful process. And I could not be any happier. I still have my days of insecurity and doubt but I am looking forward to what the rest of this journey will bring.
Thank you for your love,
No Make-Up Nina
 |
| My best friend, Gemma came with me. She is awesome. |
 |
| Some of the apples we got! Yum in my tum. |
 |
| Our wonderful group! |
Thank you for your love,
No Make-Up Nina
Thank you, Barney
This is how we should view everyone! To just be like, "Holy crap you're beautiful." It is so true!
Monday, September 24, 2012
Defining Beauty
I am so excited!!! As of last Wednesday, I had done this project for ten days. That might not seem like a lot to you, but for me not wearing make-up for ten days in a short amount of time is a very big accomplishment. It has already been difficult for me, but it has been a great adventure so far.
Today I could not imagine going through with this project and I thought, "Maybe if I just gave up on this blog, and wore make-up no one would really mind or care. I look better with make-up on, and I'm not doing anything for anyone." I put make -up on at 3:15 pm and I felt terrible about myself. I went to class and after received a beautiful message from a friend.
She expressed things she liked about my blog, and that she was trying to apply things like not worrying about make-up or clothes in her life. The most touching thing was that she told me I reminded her that we were created in God's image, and some things I wrote helped her in her own relationship with God. I got this message at 4:20 pm, and removed the make-up at 4:30. This sweet friend brought me back to the beautiful reality and truth of why I decided to embark on this journey in the first place. So that others may know and understand the freedom that comes from discovering your outer beauty and more importantly-inner beauty. If you do not think your life is beautiful-know that someone out there appreciates something about you, and they respect you. Remove the heavy burden of trying to become beautiful, and accept the truth that I have to remind myself--You are beautiful.
And when I say beautiful I mean the wonderful definition as described by Dictionary.com
beautiful:
1. the quality present in a thing or person that gives intense pleasure or deep satisfaction to the mind, whether arising from sensory manifestations (as shape, color, sound, etc.),a meaningful design or pattern, or something else (as a personality in which high spiritual qualities are manifest).
It is your personality, your mind, and your heart that make you beautiful. That beauty will not be contained, and it radiates with such presence bringing joy to others.
Also I LOVE this little reminder:
Love,
No Make-Up Nina
No Make-Up Nina
Monday, September 17, 2012
Just Keep Smiling
Thank you, Gemma for finding this!!! You are the best. And this is so incredibly true. :)
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Make-Up Remover
Oh dear friends, the world can be a pretty amazing place. Let me tell you why. Because it was created by a wonderful, loving, and beautiful God.
I warned you that this blog is going to be about my faith, too. How could it not be?! It is the most important thing in my life, the only thing that keeps me going in this often draining world. Today I felt surrounded by love, prayer, and endless support. I woke up this morning, and I was excited to dress up for church. You know, sunday best and all that jazz. Anywhooooooo. I started to put on make-up when I came to some awesome realizations.
Who am I trying to look nice for? Who at church am I trying to impress? Well after a bit of soul searching (or five minutes of it) I realized my reason for looking good at church were not good reasons at all. Also, I tried to justify wanting to wear make-up by the fact that I would not wear it for the next four days. But that's not the point of what I'm doing. That is terrible way of viewing this project. Wear no make-up for four days, earn three days of make-up?? Umm...nope.
Here's the thing: God made me. In His image. Not in the image of any movie star, supermodel, or singer.
1 Peter 3:3-4 came to mind as well. I kept thinking of the part that says, "the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight." I want that. I want to be beautiful because of my spirit, not my face. Even though I had not planned on taking off my make-up today, it was such a refreshing thing to feel beautiful without it. So much joy. :)
Love,
No Make-Up Nina
I warned you that this blog is going to be about my faith, too. How could it not be?! It is the most important thing in my life, the only thing that keeps me going in this often draining world. Today I felt surrounded by love, prayer, and endless support. I woke up this morning, and I was excited to dress up for church. You know, sunday best and all that jazz. Anywhooooooo. I started to put on make-up when I came to some awesome realizations.
Who am I trying to look nice for? Who at church am I trying to impress? Well after a bit of soul searching (or five minutes of it) I realized my reason for looking good at church were not good reasons at all. Also, I tried to justify wanting to wear make-up by the fact that I would not wear it for the next four days. But that's not the point of what I'm doing. That is terrible way of viewing this project. Wear no make-up for four days, earn three days of make-up?? Umm...nope.
Here's the thing: God made me. In His image. Not in the image of any movie star, supermodel, or singer.
 |
| Feeling good in the outdoors! (And make-up free!!!) |
Love,
No Make-Up Nina
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
To Write Love On My Arm
Yesterday was not a typical day of this journey, yesterday was hard and full of some sorrow.
Six months ago to the day, a friend of mine, committed suicide. His name was Nick Trebonik, and when I really knew him in my senior, he was so full of life. It is heartbreaking to see a young life taken away when you know that the potential inside of them was so very great. He was so happy-go-lucky, goofy, and just a lovable guy. Also, yesterday was National Suicide Prevention Day and in honor of him, I wore tie-dye (Nick loved his tie-dye!) I wore the bracelet students from my high school made in his honor, and I put the most important thing on last. I wrote the word, "love," on my arms.
The organization, To Write Love on Her Arms, is a suicide prevention group who shares hope for everyone and anyone. It truly is a wonderful cause, and has touched millions of lives. I wrote the word, "love," on my arm in hopes that someone would see it, and I can let them know how precious their life is.
Yesterday was one of the hardest days of my life. Six months to date since Nick's suicide, National Suicide Prevention Day, and I found this picture:
This was taken at Young Life Camp two years ago. For some reason the whole week, Nick would come up to me and just shimmy. It was hilarious, and we did that probably too much. But it's how I remember him. When I went to school, I lost touch with this dear friend. I know that even before he took his life, this Nick was still there. The loving, warm, kind, and genuine guy that I knew. Not a day goes by where I don't think about him a little, but yesterday was the worst. I did not know I had this picture, and when I found it...let's just say it took me awhile to stop crying and to finally feel my breathing level out. But what a neat way to protect others' lives. For me to honor him, and to tell the world how loved they are, how much they matter, and that their life has a unique purpose.
And I did not think about the fact that I wasn't wearing make-up. Not even once. I thought about the lives that are hurting so bad each and every day, and no one even knows. The people who are depressed, strung-out, and just left to dry.
This is for you, and for my friend Nick. You are so dearly loved, cherished, adored, cared for, enamored, pursued, fought for. Please know that.
With Love on My Arms,
Justina
Six months ago to the day, a friend of mine, committed suicide. His name was Nick Trebonik, and when I really knew him in my senior, he was so full of life. It is heartbreaking to see a young life taken away when you know that the potential inside of them was so very great. He was so happy-go-lucky, goofy, and just a lovable guy. Also, yesterday was National Suicide Prevention Day and in honor of him, I wore tie-dye (Nick loved his tie-dye!) I wore the bracelet students from my high school made in his honor, and I put the most important thing on last. I wrote the word, "love," on my arms.
The organization, To Write Love on Her Arms, is a suicide prevention group who shares hope for everyone and anyone. It truly is a wonderful cause, and has touched millions of lives. I wrote the word, "love," on my arm in hopes that someone would see it, and I can let them know how precious their life is.
Yesterday was one of the hardest days of my life. Six months to date since Nick's suicide, National Suicide Prevention Day, and I found this picture:
And I did not think about the fact that I wasn't wearing make-up. Not even once. I thought about the lives that are hurting so bad each and every day, and no one even knows. The people who are depressed, strung-out, and just left to dry.
With Love on My Arms,
Justina
Thursday, September 6, 2012
More Beautiful Us
Even last night, I was just not feeling good about myself. Which is okay, but this song is just such a great reminder of who we are and our beauty. For me my beauty, my identity, and my self-worth comes from knowing a wonderful God who created me as I am. Truly this song makes me cry every time I hear it because before I knew God I was looking for a guy to love me, a skinny figure to get the guy, and looks to match. What a joy it has been to be a new person, but I am still growing in this idea that I am beautiful.
Some of the lyrics: "There could never be a more beautiful you. Don't buy the lies, disguises and hoops, they make you jump through. You were made to fill a purpose that only you could do, so there could never be a more beautiful you." We are constantly giving into and listening to the lies that surround us on a daily basis.
Here is a truth you can hold onto, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."-Psalm 139:14
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Take It Off Tuesday!
So I just wanted to add a quick disclaimer because I think it's confusing people:
1. I love make-up!!! Like a lot, but I rely on it too much for my every day life. I have nothing against anyone who wears make-up this is just a personal journey thing, ya know?!
2. I do love who I am, and I am secure in many things. I think I am beautiful, so I did not make my blog for people to try and boost my self esteem. I have insecurities sometimes, but I have GREAT confidence in who I am and who I'm becoming.
Today was an awesome day to not wear make-up. One of my best friends from home texted me and said, "Hope you have a great day today, beautiful!" Talk about a good friend. She is such a sweetheart.
1. I love make-up!!! Like a lot, but I rely on it too much for my every day life. I have nothing against anyone who wears make-up this is just a personal journey thing, ya know?!
2. I do love who I am, and I am secure in many things. I think I am beautiful, so I did not make my blog for people to try and boost my self esteem. I have insecurities sometimes, but I have GREAT confidence in who I am and who I'm becoming.
Today was an awesome day to not wear make-up. One of my best friends from home texted me and said, "Hope you have a great day today, beautiful!" Talk about a good friend. She is such a sweetheart.
Oh hey! Sorry I have really bad lighting in my room, but this is me. I think I also felt good today because I had a lot of fruits and veggies yesterday, and some pizza (because I guess you can't always have a perfect day. And life is more fun when you actually live.) A great way to keep your skin looking fresh and clean is through lots and lots of water! Makes sense to me.
Also, if you are looking for some great acne treatment, this is what I use. It's called Equate: Spot Treatment and it's about 2 dollars at your local Walmart. I think they only sell it at Wally World, so keep that in mind. But it gets rid of those pesky zits hot quick! And it lasts a surprisingly long time for such a small guy. But don't sweat the small stuff like a zit on your face, it just shows you are human like the rest of us. And it made my friends laugh when I told them that their are nine planets in the universe, one being my zit.
Live freely today, and live simply.
Love,
No Make-Up Nina
Monday, September 3, 2012
I Found It.
The ninth planet of the universe. It's not Pluto, either.
It's this freaking zit on my face. And of course it appears on the second day that I don't wear make-up, and it made me feel about a million times more insecure about my face. Oh and of course I am trying to document every picture to make this really hard on myself.
So here I am: Day two without make-up. Day one of a new planet in the universe.
I put some zit cream on, and hopefully by tomorrow there will only be eight planets in the universe again. But today wasn't too bad without make-up because I was home most of the day.
We will see tomorrow how I am feeling, but I think I can do this. I've decided to go to not wearing make-up a second day of the week just because it hasn't been that bad! Thanks for your support.
Love,
No Make-Up Nina
PS- You are beautiful.
It's this freaking zit on my face. And of course it appears on the second day that I don't wear make-up, and it made me feel about a million times more insecure about my face. Oh and of course I am trying to document every picture to make this really hard on myself.
So here I am: Day two without make-up. Day one of a new planet in the universe.
We will see tomorrow how I am feeling, but I think I can do this. I've decided to go to not wearing make-up a second day of the week just because it hasn't been that bad! Thanks for your support.
Love,
No Make-Up Nina
PS- You are beautiful.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Cover-Up CoverGirl
The first day of things can be weird. They can be scary. My friend had her first day of college today, and I asked her how her first day was. Her answer was similar to how many college freshman, it's just okay. For something we are super excited about, the first day can be a huge let down. Or if it's something you are scared about it, it might surprise you and be awesome. First days can be exciting, hard, panic-inducing, scary, sometimes sad, or just plain old okay. I think that's how I felt today, and I just thought to myself, "Self, what is the purpose of me doing this? Why am I so passionate about a subject many don't even think about?" I don't really know. I don't have some long philosophical answer about this, but I for some reason Ellen Degeneres came in my head.
Not sure why, I am I like Ellen and her show, but it was kind of weird. I started thinking about Ellen right after I walked out of dorm, "If I just had a little bit of cover-up on, than I would feel better about myself right now." That is ridiculous! I need to stop covering up, and start being vulnerable. Ellen is someone who genuinely believes that everyone is beautiful, and beauty is skin deep. But today I just needed some humor in my life, and I read this part of her book, "Seriously...I'm Kidding."
Not sure why, I am I like Ellen and her show, but it was kind of weird. I started thinking about Ellen right after I walked out of dorm, "If I just had a little bit of cover-up on, than I would feel better about myself right now." That is ridiculous! I need to stop covering up, and start being vulnerable. Ellen is someone who genuinely believes that everyone is beautiful, and beauty is skin deep. But today I just needed some humor in my life, and I read this part of her book, "Seriously...I'm Kidding."
Ellen: Since I am a CoverGirl, I thought if any of you are interested in learning a little bit about modeling I could offer you some tips. I’ve sashayed down plenty of catwalks in my day - well, one. But I know what it takes to make an impression. So here are some suggestions, as long as you are willing to be fierce.
One: The LookAlways look like you’re angry at the universe for making you too pretty.
Two: The WalkTrot. Aggressively, like you’re a horse that’s trying to avoid puddles.
Three: The SquintSquint like someone is bouncing sunlight off their watch and directly into your eyes.
Four: The PoutGet those lips out there. Purse your lips like you’re trying to sip out of a straw that someone keeps moving away from you.
Five: The PoseBe mysterious. Always pose with one hand in your pocket as if to say, “I’m so mysterious, this hand in my pocket could be a hook hand. You don’t know.”
Six: The BreezeCarry a giant oscillating fan with you at all times. No exceptions.
Now put it all together. Trot! Squint! Get the straw! Who’s a pretty girl? You are. Keep trotting!
Hahahahah I seriously died of laughter when I read this. Thankful for laughter on days when my heart is heavy, and for people who tell others, "You are beautiful, especially because of your heart."
Oh and enjoy this video. Happy Monday! http://www.youtube.com/watch/?v=-7YzJr3ZJu0
Day One
Today is the day! I am stripping away my make-up for the day, and hoping to chip away at any insecurities I am feeling. Right now I feel alright, but it is nerve-racking to document this picture. But I am going to do it, and I want to continue to encourage others in this. Here we go:
No make-up Nina! Here I am. No backing down now.
"A woman whose smile is open and whose expression is glad has a kind of beauty no matter what she wears."- Anne Roiphe
Maybe you will want to try to go with make-up today or want to wear comfortable clothes out, and I hope that you do. But I want you to know that it is okay if you feel comfortable with make-up on or nice clothes, but I want you to love the life you were given as well. Have a wonderful day friends! How about today we decide to choose confidence and beauty over shame and insecurities. It will be so much better.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
You're Only A Day Away!
Tomorrow is my first day. I'm scared. I know it does not seem like that big of deal, but I am really nervous. To many girls, make-up is the most important thing in their bathroom. I would probably agree (although I'm also a huge fan of deodorant, and toothbrushes.) And that probably won't change overnight, it will take awhile. That's why this is an extended project. But I am excited to see where this road takes me because I know deep down inside that maybe one person will feel better about themselves. I hope it's me, too, but I hope it is anyone reading this.
"Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you."
Cannot wait to see where this adventure takes us.
"Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you."
Cannot wait to see where this adventure takes us.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
What Makes Us Beautiful
We've all heard the song. Some of us love it, some of us love to hate it. "What Makes Us Beautiful," by One Direction was my most favorite song for about a week, and then I moved on. But yesterday I listened to the lyrics, and I realized how appropriate they are for this little project of mine.
"You're insecure, don't know what for. You're turning heads
when you walk through the door. Don't need make-up to
cover up being the way that you are is enough."
While these lyrics aren't exactly earth-shaking like the lyrics of other bands I love, they can be used for the purpose of this blog. Whenever I meet someone new, I always try and find what is beautiful about them. Maybe their smile, maybe their eyes (usually their eyes), or just their overall warmth as a human being. Everyone is beautiful. I don't mean that in a cheesy way, or to say it because you have never heard someone say that. But how often do we tell each other, "You are so beautiful."? Probably not often. No wonder why so many people (especially of the female variety) do not feel like they are the lovely creations that they are. No one is telling them that they are! And a lot of times, no one has ever told them. Remind someone today that, "being the way that you are is enough." It could end up making their day, and probably yours too!
"You're insecure, don't know what for. You're turning heads
when you walk through the door. Don't need make-up to
cover up being the way that you are is enough."
While these lyrics aren't exactly earth-shaking like the lyrics of other bands I love, they can be used for the purpose of this blog. Whenever I meet someone new, I always try and find what is beautiful about them. Maybe their smile, maybe their eyes (usually their eyes), or just their overall warmth as a human being. Everyone is beautiful. I don't mean that in a cheesy way, or to say it because you have never heard someone say that. But how often do we tell each other, "You are so beautiful."? Probably not often. No wonder why so many people (especially of the female variety) do not feel like they are the lovely creations that they are. No one is telling them that they are! And a lot of times, no one has ever told them. Remind someone today that, "being the way that you are is enough." It could end up making their day, and probably yours too!
Thursday, August 23, 2012
I've Tried This Before
The Naked Face Project
http://yourlife.usatoday.com/mind-soul/story/2012-03-27/Naked-face-project-Women-try-no-makeup-experiment/53810002/1
Here is an article about two women who started a project appropriately named, "The Naked Face Project." They did not wear make-up for sixty days, and encourage others to try it as well. You can see their blog, and some of the women who have done it with them. Very cool!
Here is an article about two women who started a project appropriately named, "The Naked Face Project." They did not wear make-up for sixty days, and encourage others to try it as well. You can see their blog, and some of the women who have done it with them. Very cool!
You're Gonna Do What?!
Okay, so I've tried many different blogs out, and they are super fun. I love blogging because often times no one takes you too seriously, and you get to just write whatever is on your heart. But this blog has a specific purpose, and there is a reason behind it. I'm sure you have heard of, "No Make-Up March," or, "No Make-Up Monday," sometime in your life. I'm doing something like that. I'm going to start by just not wearing make-up on Mondays. After a couple weeks, I will stop wearing make-up two days out of the week, and try to progress from there. All the while I want to tackle BIG issues that a lot of women, and men face every day. Most dealing with vanity, insecurity, and low confidence. My faith will also be a huge part of this journey because that's what we will help me push through my own insecurities.
I want everyone in the entire world to know how deeply beautiful they are while bringing to the table that it is not about how your face looks, it is all about how your heart looks. But I have to do some research in my own life, and practice what I preach. To set my own heart free from the lies of media, peers, and just the world in general. Then, I can fully encourage others to be free of their own issues that hold them back. I want to change the world, but I also need to examine my own life as I try to do that. You give, and you take. I need to take a little love in, and love myself through this. That way, I can love others because I have experienced it. You know, take your head knowledge and use experience to create a wise heart.
I am imperfect. I have flaws. But they will no longer hinder a great work that is being done in my life. I hope I can inspire you to live freely, and simply. To take off any mask that you hide behind, and to begin to experience life to the full. It will be a beautiful, and worthwhile journey. I just know it.
I want everyone in the entire world to know how deeply beautiful they are while bringing to the table that it is not about how your face looks, it is all about how your heart looks. But I have to do some research in my own life, and practice what I preach. To set my own heart free from the lies of media, peers, and just the world in general. Then, I can fully encourage others to be free of their own issues that hold them back. I want to change the world, but I also need to examine my own life as I try to do that. You give, and you take. I need to take a little love in, and love myself through this. That way, I can love others because I have experienced it. You know, take your head knowledge and use experience to create a wise heart.
I am imperfect. I have flaws. But they will no longer hinder a great work that is being done in my life. I hope I can inspire you to live freely, and simply. To take off any mask that you hide behind, and to begin to experience life to the full. It will be a beautiful, and worthwhile journey. I just know it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)