As I get older, preparing my travel toiletry bag has presented new challenges for skin and beauty needs. I rarely, if ever, check a bag. I can squeeze a weeks worth of clothes in a carry on. For this reason, I just can’t take every single one of my favorite beauty products with me. When I was younger this was just fine. My skin didn’t require as much daily maintenance!

Its funny to notice the difference in travel needs between myself and my daughters. For them, it is all about makeup options. For me…its all about skincare products. I feel I need everything! What about the cream for my dark eye circles? Or the toner and moisturizer for my dry skin? Sunscreen to prevent even MORE wrinkles! And I definitely can’t be without a mild exfoliator and my tretinoin cream. Oh…don’t forget those plumping eye patches! Please tell me you understand what I mean.

What has made life easier for me? A combination of travel gift sets and old favorites. I plan to share a quick review of my thoughts on different sets over the course of my travels. Today, let’s talk Whamisa.

I know….you have read 100 articles and blog posts about drinking lemon water. Well….welcome to number 101.

If you are like me, when you read these articles you realize immediately that lemon water is the answer to all things wellness. You may even pull out a large water bottle, slice up enough lemon for a week and drink one glass. One. And that’s it. The lemons shrivel up waiting to be used and you return to your 3 cups of coffee morning habit in 24 hours.

Well, my friends. I am happy to share that I am now on my 3rd week of 20+ ounces of lemon water daily. Does it really make difference? Hell yes!

I’m not going to bore you with the obligatory lecture about what you already know. That stuff about better digestion, improved immunity, optimal pH balance, plumper skin, a boost in metabolism, improved mood….and the list goes on. (ok…sorry…I did have to sneak it in a little….)

Instead, I am going to tell you that I have found a way to make sure I start each morning with 20oz of lemon water. And I have Cameron Diaz to thank for it.

Before I get to my list, I have a confession to make. I actually have a love/dread relationship with September.

I know…seems crazy doesn’t it? You see, two of my three kids are away at college. For the past 5 years, September has been a little harder. Our entire family has been together all summer long. We have had family dinner just about every evening. Big Sunday morning breakfasts together. Game nights, outdoor movies and concerts together. I don’t know about you, but I find comfort with everyone under one roof.

If you have been in this same position, perhaps you know exactly what I am talking about. Don’t get me wrong, I am so proud of them for being independent and for pursuing their dreams. I love hearing stories about college life. (at least the ones they are willing to share..wink) There is just a little part of me that misses them and wishes they were younger again.

That brings me to my September LOVES list. This simple reflection has certainly helped lift my spirits. Each Labor Day weekend, I create a list that combines my September loves with a few to-do items that keep me busy. Not only am I excited to share them with you, but I’d love to add your favorites as well. Please a share in the comments!

Trust me on this one. Do you see that small, light pink device? That is the first Foreo Cleansing Tool I purchased. I originally just wanted something for my travel bag. As much as I love my clarisonic brush, I was traveling a lot and it took up too much space in my skincare travel bag. Not to mention that I would often forget to pack it.

During those months when I travel frequently, I prepare a cosmetic and skincare bag that contains everything I need. I don’t have to worry about taking things out when I get home or looking for the closest drugstore because I forgot mascara….again! (this has happened to me three times!)

I purchased the Foreo Luna Play to keep in my designated travel bag. The device isn’t rechargeable but is supposed to last about 100 uses. I’ve had mine for about 8 months and it is still going. I only use it when I travel, but a pretty good deal for $39.