Dear Darlings,
August 4, 2025 — Family Day
We usually spend Mondays together as a family during the summer. That’s Jon’s days off so we make the most of it. Today we headed to The Upper West Side to visit The Museum of Natural History. This was our second time there.
Insect Exhibit — GROSS
I highly disliked this exhibit. I literally cringed the entire time. Jon and Milani however had a blast. We spent about two hours roaming around learning about all the different types of insects from all around the world. Milani even touched a Bess Beatle. Did you know these types of Beatles create soil by turning fruits into compost.
We walked over to the Live Insect Exhibit to really witness how they live in their habitats. Now that was kinda cool.
El Mitote — Lunch Break
Apart of our Mondays is finding a spot to eat. Individually we enjoy food and we enjoy it even more together. Trying new flavors and experiencing different cultures can be so exciting. El Mitote is an authentic Mexican restaurant a few blocks away from the museum. I had the Birria Tacos and the fresh watermelon juice. I can honestly say this is the best Birria Tacos I’ve had ever.
This place was easily a 10/10. The ambience, the customer service and of course the FOOD! Another plus for this restaurant is the location. It’s something about eating in the Upper West Side that brings me pure joy!
Sephora Stop — A Sweet Treat
I recently purchased the Merit lip sheer Pointelle. It’s safe to say I am a new fan of Merit Beauty on a whole. So much so I’m stalking their website daily and adding to my cart as the days go on. I’ve been eyeing their Signature Lip Sheer Lip Liners for a couple of days now and decided I wanted to stop in Sephora to see and feel them in person. The way they glide on your skin like butter is what sold me right there in the store. I initially wanted the shade Beverly Hills but they were sold out so I opted for Capricorn which is just a few shades different from Beverly Hills. These lip liners are marketed as hydrating and buildable and I can be your witness and say, YES! 100%
While waiting to be checked out, I tried their perfume Retrospect and GIRL! I know I just said I’ve found my signature scent but I lied. This fragrance is so fresh and light. A minimalist scent if you may. I’ve added it to my cart as well.
Zara Visit — New Purse? Again?
Okay so in the last Dear Darlings post I told y’all I purchased a Birkin Dupe. Like I said, it was a SCAM! I just knew it. It was $34 so I should have known. The website was taken done completely. So crazy! Anyways I stopped in Zara today to try a few bags for the winter. I need something bigger and with longer straps to fit over my coats and jackets. I liked one bag but didn’t love it. I browsed around and looked at few others. Nothing really caught my eye. I just bought something on SHEIN. It will be here in about a week or so. I’ll update you
Exploring My Choice — Makeup
Last year, Jon took me to MAC to explore my new makeup preferences. I bought a few items and I’ve been enjoying them however since I’ve been exploring Merit I have made the choice to solely use that brand. They are popular for minimalist makeup and that’s the era I’m in currently. Nothing too heavy, light everyday makeup that my skin can breathe in. I also want to stick to one brand and be loyal to them so I’m excited to try more products from Merit Beauty.
What’s your go-to makeup brand?
With Love, Dani