No Makeup Challenge Week 1

February 2, 2009

Day 1

Today is my first day of the no makeup challenge. (For info on the challenge, see truecampaign.org). I rolled my eyes at the thought of not wearing makeup for an entire month. Subsequently, I skipped February 1. But, over the past few days, I have not been able to get it off my mind. “Be radical, step out, and tackle this challenge.”

My friends are extraordinarily supportive, but I feel like they do not really see a point of depriving myself of makeup. Actually, I don’t really understand why I want to do this either. At least it’s only for the month of February and this journey/torture will be over in 28 days. It could be worse and go for a whole 31 days! (Such an optimist!)

 

February 3, 2009

Day 2

If I were not so strong willed, I would quit this challenge right now. What have I got myself into? I have some serious mixed emotions. Something is tugging at my heart, so I know I need to do this. But, I don’t want to go to school today. I don’t want anyone to see me. What will people think? I am honestly worried that people will think that I look incomplete without makeup and that I need to go even out my skin tone and highlight my eyes. Ok, they probably will not think those exact words, but what if people notice?

 

February 8, 2009

Day 7

The month without makeup challenge has surprised me. Not like, “Surprise, you look great without makeup!” It’s deeper than that, not what I expected. I am surprised at how easy it has become. I don’t feel challenged to not wear makeup. I’ve actually enjoyed it! (Today I like it; I didn’t like it the other day when I felt gross.)

I have been free to be me. Cliché? Yes. But, it’s true. When I took off the Maybelline mask, a cascade of heart issues were enabled to surface. This past week, I have acknowledged my insecurities and self-consciousness, but also recognized an unfamiliar facet of Kelsey. I’m sure it’s been there this whole time, but I have been too focused on outward “stuff” to ever give it the time of day.

I am quirky, a little nerdy, fascinated by the human body. I am organized and scheduled. I cry often and laugh even more. I am ultra feminine, a girly girl some might say. And that is ok!

All in all, I have come to the conclusion and truly believe that a person is so much more than his or her outer self. (Although not to be disassociated.) I’m sure some of you have realized and owned this truth before me, and I commend you for doing so.

I am free to be me…free to read a book instead of go out, free to cry while watching a chick flick by myself, free to let out and embrace my girly giggle, free to love being a woman.

Who would have thought the first week of a month without makeup would not really be about the makeup?!

A Month Without Makeup

As mentioned a few weeks ago, I dedicated the month of February as “A Month Without Makeup.” Initially, when I heard that Constance from the True Campaign and Finding Balance was doing this, I thought it was absolutely crazy. She asked for others to join her, but that was definitely NOT going to be me!

But something about a month without makeup struck a heartstring and I could not get my mind off of it. I knew God was asking me to break out of my comfort barricade (not a shell) and just do it!

To be quite honest, the first day was pure, unadulterated torture. I would not consider myself a girl that can never leave the house without makeup, because sometimes I’m at school with sweats, a ball cap, and a tube of Blistex. I was just overwhelmed with the daunting thought of 27 more days without the glistening bronzers and other complimenting colors. I’m not going to lie, I really do love makeup.

I set my mind on making it through this month. After the first day, the excitement and my stubborn determination beat out the doubt and self-consciousness. On campus, I coincidently only saw other girls with the best makeup. I think other women will relate on the whole comparison thing (not that it is acceptable). I kept telling myself that there were more pros to not wearing makeup.

1.     I can get ready for school 15-20 minutes quicker.

2.     When I wake up in the morning, I do not have raccoon eyes from leftover mascara.

3.     I am actually saving money. Cosmetics are expensive.

But, the most wonderful blessing from dedicating a month without makeup has been the way God has revealed himself to me. He has show

n me that His word is real and alive. Psalm 45:11 says, “The king is enthralled by your beauty.” The Lord has engraved this truth into my heart. I have found a confidence in Him that I never knew before. As stated in 1 Peter, my beauty should not come from outward adornment, but from a gentle and quiet spirit. I have learned that “the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love” (Galatians 5:6).

Though I am somewhat eager for the end of February because I want to try out the new makeup I ordered, A Month Without Makeup has been a truly wonderful time of self-reflection and growth.

Me and Cassie at the WSU women's basketball game vs OSU

Life at WSU

With graduation in sight, emotions are stirring. Actually, "stirring" does no justice to the excitement, thrill, nervousness, and anxiety that has been provoked. Although I am eagerly looking forward to the day I walk across the stage and receive a folder that looks like my diploma (knowing it isn't actually the real thing and that I have to wait for it to come via snail mail), I have started realizing how much I will miss the Palouse. This wheat covered, wind blown, snow stricken, desolate piece of land has captured my heart, -12 degree days and all. 

It is not really the freezing, yet charming geographic setting that I have learned to love so dearly. It is the people. I have been blessed with so many friendships. From a second family away from home, to girlfriends who I can laugh with for hours, to my fourth set of grandparents, to my care group with Real Life (my church), to professors who genuinely care about the progress of their students, to my roommate, and on and on. Pullman/Moscow is my home. I love it here! 

Ok, enough mushy stuff. This is what's next in my life...

• I will be spending the summer (June 6-August 23) in Sasebo, Japan. I am involved with Camp Adventure, a program contracted with the U.S. military. I get to help lead a summer camp for 6-12 year olds whose parent(s) are deployed. Amazing, right?! 
• When I get back, my sister, Kristen, and I are going to spend a week camping in Yellowstone for her 21st birthday. Pretty untraditional 21 run! We're camping and hanging out. Can't wait! I hope I see a bear. 
• And after that...I have no idea! I'll keep you updated though :)

Brittany, Me, and Emily hanging out at one of many girls' nights.