Not Exactly Up to My Standards, but Not Terrible

#lemon8diarychallenge

My first day working at Merle Norman Cosmetics in Sevierville was 9/11/01. Yeah, I started a new job at what most would consider your grandma’s makeup store as the Twin Towers were collapsing. I watched the events of 9/11 on the morning news as I got ready for my new job. I got to work & turned on the radio in the store. I listened to the events happening in New York as I worked. The store was relatively small with a dedicated clientele who were faithful.

I was at the University of Tennessee at the time with classes Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and subbing so the primary school on Thursdays where my mom taught 1st grade at the time.

I go to Ulta sometimes. Merle Norman has an awesome charcoal scrub, but it isn’t cheap & it doesn’t fit on my priority list.

So last week when I was in #FoodCity in Sevierville. I just grabbed a toner & moisturizer. I had never used the toner brand before, but I figured it would be good since it had the Self Magazine endorsement. The Olay I got for moisturizer does not specifically say moisturizer, but I am happy, or let me say, satisfied with them both.

The moral is the story- don’t buy skin care from a grocery store & don’t buy it in a hurry. I don’t think I even took the time to look either up on the Yuka app until I got home. I don’t remember the score of the Olay, but the rosewater toner score said “poor.”

Do I plan on buying these again? Nope!

#skincare #toner #moisturizer

2024/7/10 Edited to

... Read moreNavigating the world of skin care can be overwhelming, especially with so many products available in grocery stores. It's easy to be swayed by marketing or endorsements from popular magazines without doing thorough research. For instance, many may reach for popular brands like Olay or the trending rosewater toners, mistakenly believing they're safe choices. However, according to experts, it's crucial to look beyond the shiny packaging and endorsements. Before purchasing any skin care product, consider checking its ingredients and reviews. Apps like Yuka can help, as they provide insights on product safety and efficacy. Products that are labeled as 'natural' or 'alcohol-free' aren't always skin-friendly. For example, Dickinson's Witch Hazel toner may seem appealing for its natural image, but many users have reported adverse reactions or poor results. Choosing the right products for your skin type is vital. Always perform a patch test when trying new items, particularly for sensitive skin. Moreover, understanding your skin's specific needs—whether hydration, exfoliation, or deep cleaning—can significantly impact your results. Consulting with a dermatologist or a skincare expert can also help you make informed choices. Remember, investing in quality skincare saves you time and money in the long run, preventing costly mistakes like those I experienced.

Related posts

don't lower your standards
sorry had to replace song the original song is plies you ain't regular
🎀Didi Desir🎀

🎀Didi Desir🎀

2062 likes

A hand holds a bouquet of yellow roses with baby's breath, set against a dark background. Overlay text reads 'MY STANDARDS FOR DATING,' introducing the article's theme.
A sunset sky with silhouetted trees and buildings forms the background for text detailing communication standards: open, honest, and check-ins without constant texting.
A person stands in a dense, mossy forest, looking away. Overlay text describes the need for emotional intelligence and maturity in a partner, including handling difficult conversations.
MY STANDARDS FOR DATING
my standards for dating!! the dating scene in your twenties + in college is a bit tough, and for someone who is - i'll be honest - quite picky, it feels impossible i've done a lot of self reflection, talks in therapy, and also just trial and error in the dating scene, trying to figure o
sophia carter ✰

sophia carter ✰

1883 likes

A person holds a large colorful plush toy at a night fair with food stalls, under the title "SIGNS THAT YOU'RE NOT READY FOR A RELATIONSHIP *a Christians guide*".
A person takes a mirror selfie in a bathroom, with another person reflected behind them. The text "DESPERATION" is displayed, explaining how it blurs discernment.
Two people's arms and hands are visible at a table, with the title "LOW SELF ESTEEM" and text explaining how unhealed wounds and insecurities lead to seeking validation.
Signs That You’re Not Ready For A Relationship
we’ve talked a lot about what to look for in a MOG & how to navigate a relationship with one, but what about how to know if you’re even ready for one? these are a few signs to consider while in your Christian single season. remember that God has you placed exactly where you belong! find peace i
briyana 🌸

briyana 🌸

4106 likes

Bestie, You’re Not Stuck… But You Keep Doing THIS!
🚨 Real talk: You don’t need more motivation. You need a reset. You keep telling yourself “I’ll start Monday”, but Monday comes and goes. You know you’re meant for more, but you feel stuck in the same cycle. Sound familiar? The truth? You’re not stuck—you’re repeating patterns that don’t serve
MAIIA ⭐️

MAIIA ⭐️

325 likes

Why would you wanna live by natures standards
In this video was first posted a lot of people complained and said humans do that too. And to all those people I rolled my eyes and said no shi Sherlock. The entire reason we have laws against these things Is because we know humans will do them so we put things in place to discourage it just becaus
Cameron

Cameron

9027 likes

A smiling couple stands against an orange wall with potted plants. The image features text "UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS IN A RELATIONSHIP" and "#DatingTips," surrounded by red flag icons, illustrating common relationship pitfalls.
A couple kisses on a beach under a cloudy sky. Overlaid text discusses the expectation of a partner being the sole source of happiness, emphasizing the importance of cultivating personal joy and self-happiness.
A couple stands close, with text discussing different ways people express love. The overlay explains how partners may have varying love languages, like physical touch versus acts of service, and how they show affection.
Unrealistic standards you may have to let go of…
Hello friends! 🍋 Have you ever thought about if your expectations of a man/woman in a relationship are too low or too high? We definitely need standards and expectations in our relationships in order to make it work, but sometimes our expectations are unrealistic it hurts us. That’s why
Thamires Cottone | REALTOR

Thamires Cottone | REALTOR

95 likes

If He Cheated, But You Didn’t Leave…
If he cheated and stayed… that doesn’t automatically mean he chose you. Some men don’t leave because they’re in love. They stay because they’re comfortable. There’s a difference between being valued and being useful. High-value women learn to tell the difference. Discernment is a ski
The Feminine Blueprint

The Feminine Blueprint

119 likes

15 HARD TRUTHS: LOWERING YOUR STANDARDS IS THE FASTEST WAY TO ATTRACT THE WRONG
Most people don’t end up in the wrong situations overnight… They slowly adjust. They tolerate. They justify. And before they realize it… what they once said “never” to becomes their normal. The truth is — Lowering your standards doesn’t make love easier… it just makes the wrong peo
Aisha .T Cleaners & J Advocate

Aisha .T Cleaners & J Advocate

45 likes

A woman in a leopard print crop top and black pants smiles outdoors at night, with city buildings and palm trees in the background. The image features text about holding yourself to high standards.
A woman in a red backless dress looks over her shoulder indoors, with string lights and decorative items behind her. The image lists tips for self-confidence, self-priority, and setting boundaries.
A close-up selfie of a woman in a car, looking to the side. The image includes text detailing self-care tips like looking clean, having done nails, eating high protein, and getting enough sleep.
HOW TO HOLD YOURSELF TO HIGH STANDARDS AND THRIVE
One of the best ways to hold yourself to high standards is to figure out what you're okay with and what you're not. Once you know that, put yourself first and learn how to say no. If you don’t set boundaries, people might take advantage of you. Always make sure you want the best for yoursel
Zazel Rosado

Zazel Rosado

99 likes

Unrealistic Standards I Fully Plan to Maintain 🍋✨
**Delusional? Maybe. Visionary? Absolutely. Life’s too short to settle for a boring fridge and a sad closet. Save this post for your future dream life mood board — and tell me in the comments: What’s your unrealistic non-negotiable for your dream home? (Mine is a two-story closet with a d
Ariana Berson

Ariana Berson

806 likes

You’re Not Being Chosen… You’re Being Used
If you feel like you have to give your body just to keep his attention… pause for a second. Because real connection doesn’t disappear the moment you set boundaries. When someone only shows effort when things turn physical, that’s not love, that’s access. And the more you give to keep him, th
QuietClarity

QuietClarity

18 likes

Standards reflects your wealth 💰💎
Rich Girl Living isn’t aesthetic, it’s structure. Standards. Systems. Strategy. Discipline. Money doesn’t move randomly, it moves intentionally. We don’t chase income. We design it. We don’t follow trends. We build infrastructure. Her Boss Lifestyle Academy is the system behind the lifestyle.
Nesha Noir | Rich Girl Living

Nesha Noir | Rich Girl Living

73 likes

A woman takes a mirror selfie, holding a green phone. White text overlay reads 'BABE, YOUR STANDARDS ARE NOT TOO HIGH', reinforcing the article's theme of self-worth and boundaries.
A display of various donuts, including matcha, blueberry, and a heart-shaped one, is shown. An overlay states, 'Having high standards doesn't make you difficult - it makes you intentional about what you allow in your life.'
A woman takes a mirror selfie, holding a green phone. White text overlay reads 'The right opportunities and people will rise to meet your standards. Don't lower them; they're protecting your peace.'
Your “High” Standards Are Valid
Hello #GloUppers A theme I have been faced with a lot this week is balancing the opinions of others and my own sense of a self value. Lots of voices coming from different directions about what I should do and how I should consider settling in an effort to ply things safe. Never let anyone
Darrel Kennedy

Darrel Kennedy

35 likes

I’m not dating by worldly standards. I rather wait
I’m not dating by worldly standards. I rather wait for Gods confirmation through the Holy Spirit #mobility #joints #jesus #chicago #fitness #lifestyle #therapy #Holy spirit #brandnew
WillPowerFitnes

WillPowerFitnes

1048 likes

5 Soft Life, High Standards Tips Luxury Black Girl Edition 💌
Soft, intentional, and unbothered… that’s the energy I’m choosing every day. I’m not chasing, I’m aligning. I’m not rushing, I’m flowing. This is what feminine luxury really looks like 🤍 #SoftLifeEnergy #FeminineEnergy #HighValueWoman #BlackGirlLuxury
Louis Michelle

Louis Michelle

95 likes

A smiling woman in a black dress stands next to a wall with a bicycle drawing. Text overlay reads 'DATING STANDARDS YOU NEED TO HAVE SWIPE' with an arrow, indicating a call to action for dating advice.
Setting dating standards in your 20s and beyond ✨
Communicate boldly, love independently, and never settle for less than respect and equality. Remember, it’s not just about finding the right one, it’s about being the right one for yourself first. YOU MATTER first. 💗 #thinklikeaman #dating #datingadvice #datingadvice101 #relationshipad
Hillary

Hillary

225 likes

Low standards built this version of you.
Low standards built this version of you. Higher standards will build the next one. That is it. That is the entire self improvement Not more motivation. Not more systems. There are 7 prompts behind this that will show you exactly how to raise them. Comment PROMPTS and I will send them stra
Jacob Dyal | Focus

Jacob Dyal | Focus

0 likes

Standards I’m Not Lowering in 2026
Stepping into 2026 with clarity, calm, and molten‑gold energy.These are the standards I’m not lowering — not for chemistry, not for potential, not for nostalgia. ✨ Emotional availability ✨ Consistency ✨ Reciprocity ✨ Peace ✨ Self‑worth When you trust your first knowing, dating gets a lot
ASH💋

ASH💋

24 likes

A woman with curly hair, wearing a black top, pleated mini skirt, tights, and knee-high boots, smiles while standing outdoors at night near palm trees and a white gate.
Do I really need to lower my standards?
The other day I was catching up with a guy friend talking about life, relationships, and just vibing. Out of nowhere, he says: “You’re a good girl. You’re beautiful, independent, hardworking, fun to be around everything a man wants in a wife. But I think you need to lower your standards. Your mind
Dadoulovebeauty509

Dadoulovebeauty509

23 likes

What High Standards Actually Look Like
Kensington Sailor

Kensington Sailor

50 likes

Double standards
Kash

Kash

354 likes

✨Standards Are Not a Burden ✨
A woman with standards will often be called difficult by people who benefit from her having none. She is not difficult because she knows her worth. She is not difficult because she protects her peace. She is not difficult because she refuses to settle for less than what God has promised her.
Vintij Harris

Vintij Harris

4 likes

Journal: Amber episode 2 of 3
Chapter 1 — The Committee By Saturday afternoon, Ryan and Robbie had somehow convinced themselves that Amber’s invitation was their responsibility. I wasn’t sure how that happened. I definitely hadn’t asked for help. Yet there I was sitting in Robbie’s basement while the two of them pre
Kevin W. Simpson

Kevin W. Simpson

1 like

8 SIGNS YOU’RE NOT FOR EVERYONE — AND THAT’S YOUR POWER
You’re not “too much.” You’re just not for the wrong people. You love deeply. You show up. You stand on truth. You don’t tolerate what doesn’t align. And that will never be for everyone. 👉 But it’s not supposed to be. Because the same things that make you “too much” for some… are e
Aisha .T Cleaners & J Advocate

Aisha .T Cleaners & J Advocate

3 likes

STANDARDS

What you tolerate becomes your reality. Not because you deserve it— but because you allowed it. Standards are not about control. They are about self-respect. Songbirdgrandmother.com
SongBirdGrandMother

SongBirdGrandMother

6 likes

A bouquet of pink and white flowers in a light bag, with the text 'You Don't Need a New Life Just New Standards' and 'LUXURY TIPS FOR YOU @SIMPLI_STACI'.
A dark, moody floral background featuring the quote 'Most people aren't stuck. They're just tolerating things they've outgrown.' and 'LUXURY TIPS FOR YOU'.
A soft bouquet of light-colored roses and flowers, displaying the text 'You don't need to start over. You need to stop accepting less.' and 'LUXURY TIPS FOR YOU'.
You Don’t Need A New Life, Just New Standards ✨
You don’t need to blow your life up to evolve. Sometimes the shift is quieter than that. It looks like saying no faster. It looks like not overextending yourself. It looks like choosing what actually aligns… instead of what’s familiar. That’s the part no one glamorizes. But that’s the
Simpli Staci | Lifestyle

Simpli Staci | Lifestyle

27 likes

A person with long dark hair, wearing a blue patterned dress, is reflected in a full-length mirror. Overlay text reads "MY DATING STANDARDS" and "(I WILL NOT SETTLE FOR THE BARE MINIMUM)" with a Lemon8 watermark.
A couple embraces in a dimly lit setting, with the man kissing the woman's forehead. Overlay text says "Vulnerability" and describes being open with emotions and protecting each other's feelings.
A person's legs, wearing sparkling high heels, are propped up inside a car with vibrant pink and purple interior lighting. Overlay text reads "Spoil Me" and lists ways to be spoiled.
My Dating Standards/Must Haves ✨
#datingadvice101 #standards #love #lovelanguage #qualitytime
Precious 🪞💕🦢

Precious 🪞💕🦢

45 likes

A top-down view of two people's legs and feet on a patterned hexagonal tile floor, with text overlay "STANDARDS FOR DATING *save this list*". One person wears dark shoes, the other white boots.
A bouquet of light pink roses wrapped in brown paper, with purple flowers in the background. Text lists dating standards including being timely, honest, a good listener, affectionate, having shared morals, financial stability, and long-term goals.
A dining table with a plate of escargots, two wine glasses (one with red wine, one with water), and a red heart icon. Text lists dating standards like good communication, respecting boundaries, generosity, opening doors, good physical care, no addiction issues, no gaslighting, and affection.
non-negotiable standards for dating *save this*
Here is a list dating standards to help ensure a relationship is built on mutual respect, kindness and avoids RED flags: -they are timely on dates and know when to communicate if running late -they are honest and genuine -they speak kindly to you and about others -they are a good listener an
Cleo Natalie

Cleo Natalie

36 likes

standards
#relationship #standardsmatter #standardshigh #standards #embracevulnerability
harley einstein

harley einstein

17 likes

High Dating Standards 101 ✨
📌Save This Post For Later📌 & Follow @DrewAdoreNaja🌸 Okay Ladies…time for a lil chit chat! Many Women feel like they don’t deserve the love they crave and often settle but I’m here to tell you sis! What one won’t do another one will ! 💯 The First Step is Self-Love♥️✨ Once you mas
The Formulation 🐐

The Formulation 🐐

51 likes

🔥 Standards Only
Let’s be real… Love shouldn’t feel like work you do alone. It shouldn’t feel like you’re carrying the connection, the effort, and the emotional weight. The right love has reciprocity. The right love meets you halfway. And the healed version of you stops calling struggle “normal.” Drop
Grace & Growth N’ Her Healing

Grace & Growth N’ Her Healing

9 likes

A screenshot of a text message conversation on a dark background. A blue message bubble reads: "You're too far from me and I'm not mobile like that." Reaction emojis and a menu with options like Reply, Add Sticker, Copy, and Translate are visible.
A screenshot of a text message conversation. A grey message bubble reads: "Bet." Reaction emojis are displayed above, and a menu with options like Reply, Add Sticker, and Copy is partially visible below.
A screenshot of a text message conversation. A grey message bubble reads: "And where do you stay again?" Reaction emojis are shown above, and a menu with options like Reply, Add Sticker, and Copy is partially visible below.
Weak men hate women with standards
Did I come off aggressive or assertive?? Pt 2 (pls check previous post before commenting, thx☺️) #datingadvice101 #praiseso Let me know if yall want a pt. 3 to this conversation, cuz it gets worse😂💀 . . Not responding to comments no more. Peep my TikTok for more context
Praises.o

Praises.o

563 likes

Keep your Standards HIGH✨
#confidentgoddess #girladvice
Jay?Duhhh

Jay?Duhhh

39 likes

RELATIONSHIP STANDARDS TO MEET YOUR SOULMATE
hey cuties! i’ve been dating the loml for the past 3 years and plan on getting married in another! we met on tinder in the midst of covid, and i thought id give yall some insight as to what qualities I looked for that helped me find the person I want to spend my life with :) hope yall enjoy! #t
Eli

Eli

27 likes

A woman in a light green knitted outfit sits in a cozy room, looking at the camera. Text overlay states: "STANDARDS Your standards protect your peace, your time, and your future. YOU TEACH PEOPLE HOW TO TREAT YOU BY WHAT YOU ACCEPT. Protect your peace. Keep your standards."
A woman in a light green knitted outfit sits in a cozy room, looking at the camera. Text overlay states: "STANDARDS aren't about being difficult, they're about self-respect. YOU DESERVE THE SAME ENERGY YOU GIVE."
A woman in a light green knitted outfit sits in a cozy room, hand on chin, looking away. Text overlay states: "STANDARDS You're not 'too much' for wanting consistency, respect, and effort. YOU'RE TOO MUCH FOR ANYONE NOT WILLING TO MEET THOSE STANDARDS."
Stop lowering your standards 🩷
You didn’t become “too much”… You just grew. You started wanting peace. Consistency. Respect. And not everyone can meet you there but that’s the point. Standards don’t block love…they protect you from the wrong kind. Save this 🩷 #healing #selfgrowth #standards #boundaries #softlife
Alasha Nicole

Alasha Nicole

19 likes

Not flexible enough to bend my standards though. 🤷🏼‍♀️
On brand 😂 #GymBaddie #Latina #FlexibilityGoals #FitAndFeminine #StrongIsSexy
MaiahNoelle

MaiahNoelle

10 likes

It’s not his traumas, it’s his standards
Many people stay in relationships where their feelings are neglected, constantly having to teach their partner how to treat them. 💔 They lower their standards, clinging to the belief that they can ‘change’ their partner, but this stems from a psychological trap called confirmation bias—where we
The Lion’s Den

The Lion’s Den

219 likes

Your Standards Write Your Future:
Your life will always rise or fall to the level of the standards you set. The relationships you attract, the opportunities you accept, and even the way you treat yourself are all direct reflections of what you've decided you're worthy of. Low standards create a cycle of settling. They ke
Sarah

Sarah

21 likes

AFRICAN BEAUTY STANDARDS/ ✨Braids✨
As black women we should celebrate our beauty standards and remove ourselves from expectations and societal pressures that has nothing to do with our culture. AFrica has so many tribes with different hairstyles and braiding techniques that we should learn more about and carry those traditions into
DAUGHTER OF SIRENS  💖

DAUGHTER OF SIRENS 💖

543 likes

“You Deserve Better: Elevate Your Standards!”
Success Story Saturday! I share my failures and wins, but today, I'm sharing my successes! I was told that having my daughter was going to ruin my life, and I would never amount to anything but a baby mama. I am thankful that God's grace kept me in his plan. I didn't adopt the lie th
Rika Rich

Rika Rich

7 likes

This Month Is About Standards ✨
May is about standards. Not as punishment. Not as ego. Not as a performance of being “above” anything. But as self-respect in practice. Standards are what happen when healing gets honest enough to stop making room for what consistently costs you your peace. This month, we’re getting c
crystalso.clear

crystalso.clear

0 likes

A young woman in a blue hoodie and plaid blanket smiles on a couch, with the pink text "My reasons for high standards" overlaid.
A young woman in a blue hoodie and plaid blanket smiles on a couch, with text explaining high standards related to church attendance.
A young woman in a blue hoodie and plaid blanket smiles on a couch, with text explaining high standards related to weekend plans.
My reasons for high standards
I have tons more these are just ones close to my 💜
Brooklyn Gimmarro

Brooklyn Gimmarro

13 likes

bad advice saturday: lower your standards.
lower your standards. it keeps the peace. it kept something. just not what they said it would. it kept him from having to grow. it kept the dynamic exactly where he needed it. it kept you small enough to fit inside a relationship that was never built to hold all of you. the arguments
author

author

7 likes

Standards Is Not Having An Attitude ✨
A lot of people confuse standards with ego because boundaries become inconvenient when access is no longer automatic. But standards are not attitude. They’re clarity. They’re what happens when you stop pretending you’re okay with things that repeatedly cost you your peace, time, and self-res
Crystalso.Clear

Crystalso.Clear

6 likes

📍Standards Set. Access Limited‼️
“I know exactly what I want, exactly what I deserve, and I’m done entertaining anything that falls short. My standards aren’t up for debate they’re the blueprint.” #standardsforareason #standards #standardsmatter #unfiltered #embracevulnerability
Bloom Bri

Bloom Bri

4 likes

See more