Hello, I’m Michelle!
“Love shines brightest when it is shared in the present moment” – Yung Pueblo
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Panama Family Trip Part 1- San Blas
We embarked on this approximately 4 hour long journey to the island early in the morning from our hotel. We used the tour company San Blas Dreams for both this tour and another one we booked while in Panama (I have not been paid or received compensation with this company).
The trip was via a 4×4 down an hours long road that was full of potholes. We were told the road has been like this for years but is scheduled to be repaired soon. Once we arrived at the end we were then picked up by a boat and the ride was about 40 minutes to Ina Island. I selected this one in particular since the island would also include us getting to island hop for the day at a few other islands before returning for the night to sleep in a hut. While there I have to say we saw many people doing just a day trip to the islands but knowing the long amount of time it would take to get to San Blas and back, and with kids and grandparents, it really just made sense to stay overnight at least for us.
While on the island were able to experience some local Kuna food (the Kuna are the indigenous people of the Guna tribe), embrace the lack of wifi and technology, and live out every moment on the screensavers I pick for my work computer. We participated in a tour to visit some other islands all of which were equally beautiful. There was one that was so small in size with the tiniest sliver of land that you would walk down the strip and have water washing upon it from both directions. It was heavenly to feel like you are out in the middle of the ocean yet safe on this small island.
While away I was a little nervous taking such young children and Raul’s parents however, everyone enjoyed it and I have to say we all needed the break and with little to focus on but the views, it was a much needed break from work and the everyday.
A few tips if you do this trip- pack lightly. We put all of our stuff in a small carry on suitcase since it was for the three kids and us and that worked but if you are traveling solo or just a couple, an overnight duffle is best. Don’t forget bug spray, sunscreen, toiletries, a towel, a flashlight or small collapsible lantern for night time, a card game or some activity to do at night after the sun goes down with kids/friends, and if you have young kids don’t forget to bring baby wipes and some of the small diaper/pull up plastic bags. The island is very rustic and minimal….but so worth it and so hard to leave.
Thank you for your response. ✨
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Home Upgrades Part 1 of 4!
Parachute Waffle Robe, Nest Candles, Bath and Body Stress Relief, Parachute Home Bedding, Parachute Turkish Cotton Robe Upon reflecting on some of the items in our home that we recently upgraded/integrated into our everyday living, I realized not only have we bought a lot of things but we also have done so much in our apartment since the pandemic. Our focus after the initial shock of everything was to enjoy and upgrade the items that we have and use so regularly. I have always believed in having high quality bedding and was intrigued by the Parachute brand.
I will be setting up 3 posts for indoor upgrades and 1 for the outdoor. We have done so much to the outdoor terrace over the years but last year we decided to invest and upgrade some of the items we had with the boys getting bigger and needing a larger play space. More to come on this!
Parachute Bath Robes- These were a Holiday present and they are every bit as luxurious as you would expect! The heavier Turkish cotton one is great for when it is colder and you want to lounge around in bed or on the couch post shower. The waffle one is great for everyday use and easy to move in so I can still tidy up in it and even have some coffee and make a light breakfast in it.
Parachute Bedding- I purchased this set during their Black Friday sales in November to replace another set of white bedding that we had for a while. This set is super soft, durable to wash (just follow instructions) and really is a quality duvet set.
Nest Candles- I just recently got hooked on the candles but have been using the diffuser for years now. They are perfect in the bathroom, living room, or even bedroom. One of my favorite scents is the cedar leaf & lavender. Currently, I am using ocean mist candle in my kitchen and it smells so perfect especially this time of the year with the windows open.
Bath and Body Works; Stress Relief Products- This smell can relax anyone. I stumbled upon these products before Bath and Body Works was fancy making it into scrubs and this was just a lotion. Whether it is a lotion, a scrub, hand sanitizer, or a candle, the scent brings about instant relaxation and I have even seen teachers using it in schools to support students who struggle with stress and anxiety.
These are all products I have purchased/gifted by family and use and would never recommend anything I don’t already own and use
Thank you for your response. ✨
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My Fountain of Youth
HOW DO YOU DISPLAY YOUR PRODUCTS? COUNTERTOP OR IN A MEDICINE CABINET?
The year was 2020…we were in a pandemic and all I knew was one day I would emerge and want to look my best! I have been using P50 as my toner for years (using the non 1970 version during pregnancies) but was ready for a grown up skin care regimen. Enter GLAMVIE!
I was already a friend of their customized facials (top of the line products and I never broke out after having a facial like you can at other places). After a consultation I started with a serum here, moisturizer there and then finally built up to my current collection of products.
These are really the only products I use outside of some micellular water and a light bare minerals tinted moisturizer with SPF 50 and my skin is not only clean, it is free of buildup and literally glows. Here are a few pics of “before and after” (real photos- not touched up no filters! 100% pre pandemic and a photo as of a few weeks ago!)
Left- 2019 pre pandemic Right-2021 still in the pandemic but look at this skin!
I am by no means certified to know what skin care routine anyone would need but highly recommend Glamvie if you are looking to invest in a skincare routine @ 718-743-2374
Thank you for your response. ✨
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Rollin’ with my Yogi’s
Yoga Happens Beyond The Mat…
My love for yoga has been around for decades (yikes how old am I). I first embarked on my journey while at SUNY Oneonta (Go Red Dragons!) and took a Philosophy of Yoga course. After graduation I moved to Manhattan and I promptly signed up for a Yoga Works membership. I was a first year public school teacher with a minimal salary and small studio apartment. I prioritized yoga over most things then. Fast forward to my move to Brooklyn where I fell into a deep and sweaty love of hot yoga with Yoga to the People.
Now a few weeks away from a certification to teach kids about yoga, breathing, and mindfulness, yoga has once again morphed and found a new place in my heart.
For all the yogi’s out there here are a few of my favorite yoga finds-
Yeti Mat & Strap- I have had this mat for years and it is such great material, print, and I honestly would only replace to pick up another one of their great prints. https://www.yetiyogaco.com
Beyond Yoga set- I have this set in coral, black, desert sand, grey, and white. The top is perfect to give coverage and hold it all in and it is super comfortable. The pieces are also great to mix and match and with a denim jacket it is perfect for on the go! https://beyondyoga.com
Lululemon Yoga Bag- this fits a yoga mat, yoga towel, chapstick, wallet, and keys perfectly for on the go. I prefer a bag to a mat strap so it doesn’t get dirty during travel. https://shop.lululemon.com
Shandali yoga towel- I have this brand in a few colors but it is full length for your mat, absorbent especially for hot yoga, and can be purchased on amazon!
Capri blue diffuser oil- I spoke about this brand sold through anthropologie in my Mother’s Day post and love using it to set the tone for yoga relaxation. https://www.anthropologie.com
Gaiam yoga blocks– the perfect compliment to any yoga set. Not too soft and essential for modifying poses*As always- staying loyal to myself and any followers of this blog, I only post about items I own, want to own, and have not received any compensation from any of the above companies in endorsing these products.
Thank you for your response. ✨
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Mother’s Day Gifts!
It’s never too late to do some last minute shopping! I put together a quick list of some items that I have and would love to receive (if any of my kids happen to be reading this 😉
Dyson Airwrap- I absolutely love this! I have had it since December and use it regularly to do curls/waves/ or just a straight hairstyle. I watched a ton of video’s from influencers on how to use and have to be honest that you learn by doing with it. Took a bit of time to learn but it takes me about 10 minutes to do my hair with it and saves not just time in the morning but money on blowouts. https://www.dyson.com/hair-care/dyson-airwrap-styler/dyson-airwrap-styler-overview
Beyond Yoga joggers- I have these in the grey color. They are so comfy and great to mix and match with other tops. These have a pocket which makes being on the go so easy. I have the leggings with no pockets too which are great for yoga and lounging. https://beyondyoga.com/collections/sweatpants
Tiffanys Pearl Ring– I mean it is Tiffanys- always iconic and classic to have a gift from Tiffanys. I already have a pearl dangle earring and pearl diamond necklace from them and it goes with literally everything!
Angie Marei MILF Necklace– I got this from Raul on my first mothers day and adore it. While I wear it only outside of work, we like to call it my Mother I’ll Love Forever necklace 😉 https://www.diabolikill.com
Nike Sneakers– for the mother on the go! Just released, casual, and classy! On my list to purchase! https://www.nike.com/w/shoes-y7ok
Spiritual Gangster– love this brand! Besides the catchy name the clothes make for great trendy gifts. I recently wore their black signature hoody on the blog launch day. https://spiritualgangster.com
Capri Blue Candles- great gift for really anyone. I love anthropologie and this is the scent of their store. The diffuser oil is also amazing for an all day relaxation scent. https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/capri-blue-ombre-faceted-glass-jar-candle?category=SHOPBYBRAND&color=097&type=STANDARD&size=One%20Size&quantity=1
Lastly, for the Mother that has it all and wants to look her best, check out the Biologique Recherche Skin Care line. They have all sorts of lotions, potions, and serums. I personally use all of these and it has helped keep me not looking my age! I do personalized skin consultations and purchase directly through Glamvie Salon located at 2905 Ocean Ave Brooklyn, NY 11235 @ 718-743-2374 (both in person and virtual consultations can be scheduled!)
*Being true and authentic to who I am and to any followers, I would never use or recommend a product I don’t use and love. I have not received any compensation for endorsing any of these products.
Thank you for your response. ✨
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First Post!!!!!
I gave birth again! Except instead of it being to a 4th boy it is a blog! This has been a labor of love mostly to get the courage and time to focus on it. I have to thank first and foremost my better half for the constant encouragement, LOS for the inspiration, and my close friends who have pushed me to put myself out there.
This idea has been in my head for such a long time and it has gone through so many iterations of what it would look like and what it would be about . Today Los Perspective is here to take you on our journey as a family of five. Los has a double meaning for us. It not only represents the names of our children (Lucas, Oliver, Sebastian) but is also Spanish for “the” and represents the combining of our Spanish and English languages. Perspective will be through our unique lens as both individuals and as a family.
Our hope is that we can focus predominantely on travel as the world slowly reopens. Who starts a travel blog during a pandemic? Us! In the meanwhile I will be posting about some of our local travels in Brooklyn, throwback trips taken and highlighting some of my favorite products. If you know me, you know I love shopping which could be a blog in itself!Thank you for taking this journey with us! Xoxo
First we had each other, then we had you, now we have everything! Thank you for your response. ✨
About Me
The sky is not completely dark at night. Were the sky absolutely dark, one would not be able to see the silhouette of an object against the sky.
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