Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Health Tip of the Week

Your body cannot tell the difference between hunger and dehydration.  As an adult, our bodies are made up of over 50% water.  If your mouth is dry or you are thirsty, you are already in the beginning stages of dehydration.  For optimal health, drink 3 liters of water a day.  This may seem impossible to some, but start out with with less and work your way up to the 3 liters.  Next time you feel hungry, drink a glass of water, and see how you feel.  I bet you won't feel nearly as hungry.  Also, get into the habit of drinking a full glass of water before each meal.  You are sure to consume less calories.  Each week focus on adding one thing to your routine, and before you know it, you will have made some huge strides!



Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Nails of the Week

Wet N Wild Megalast 204b Private Viewing

FOTD- Simple Makeup, Bold Lip


  Face - Revlon Photoready Perfecting Primer- 001, Revlon Colorstay Whipped Creme Foundation- 370 Natural Tan, l'Oreal Translucide Loose Powder- 960 Medium, Revlon Photoready Concealer- 003 Light Medium, Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circle Concealer- Brightener/Illuminator, Sonia Kashuk Beautifying Blush- 03 Sunset, Milani Baked Blush- 05 Luminoso, Star Looks Lip Pencil- Tipsy, Maybelline Vivids Lipstick- Vibrant Mandarin

 Eyes- Physicians Formula Matte Collection Quad Eye Shadow- Classic Nudes, Maybelline Define-A-Brow- Medium Brown, Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl liner- 005 Nude, Jordana Best Lash Extreme Volumizing Mascara- 301 Black, Maybelline The Rocket Volum Express.

I was spending the day at the state fair with my family, and really didn't want to wear too much that day.  This is a very simple look for me.  No contouring, and only highlighting under the eyes.  The only liner I wore, was the nude in my lower waterline.  I felt a little naked, so I added a pop of color with a orange/coral lip.


Ipsy July Glam Bag Review, FOTD, and LOTD

This month's glam bag is a round, see through, pink bag with the Ipsy logo.  I really like this bag.  It's small, cute, and easy to use, because it is see through.  I use all my ipsy bags, because they are easy, and convenient to throw in your handbag.  So now, let's get to July's products.....

-  Benefit Benetint-  This is my first time using this product.  It can be used as a cheek stain or a lip stain.  I tried it as both.  For the cheeks, I really like it!  The product is very liquidy.  So, it comes with a small brush (like a nail polish brush).  It is recommended to apply 3 small strokes to the apples of your cheeks.  I did as instructed, and quickly blended with my fingertips, blending up and out toward my hairline.  This product gives a very natural looking glow.  You can build up the color, so I reapplied it two more times, using the same technique.  I have a tan skin tone, medium to dark.  I will definitely use this, especially for a soft day look.  As a lip stain.....it works, don't get me wrong, but it's so liquidy for a stain.  It does quickly dry, and give a subtle stain, but it's weird for me, because it is completely dry.  I have a fuller lip, and need moisture.  Also, the taste is not good.  It tastes chemically (if that's a word).  If you want a natural daytime lip, it's worth a try, but I would apply a chapstick, balm, or gloss overtop of it.  I definitely prefer it as a cheek stain.  The cheeks did last all day, but I also had a very longwearing foundation on.  The full size Benetint retails for $30.  You can purchase this online, or at Sephora and Macy's.

-  Pop Beauty Pouty Pop Crayon-  Another first for me!  This is a lip product that can also be used as a cream blush.  I really like this one!  It is a great lip product, because of it silky, smooth texture.  It is a balm, not a lipstick or lip gloss.  It isn't greasy or sticky the way glosses can be.  It is very comfortable and moisturizing.  I think many people would love this product.  It doesn't need a lip liner or a mirror, it's that easy to apply!  This is great for a quick makeup look, that isn't so fussy.  I also tried this as a cream blush.  I like it, and would use it in that way as well.  Again, it wasn't sticky or super shiny, like some cream blush.  It was very easy to blend.  The only thing, I probably would have picked a deep color for my cheeks, because I do have a tan.  It doesn't show up a lot, but again, good for a simple day look.  I just prefer more color on my face.  You can buy these at popbeautycosmetic.com.  They come in a kit of 6 for $25.

- BH Cosmetics California Collection- the California Collection has 3 different palettes....Malibu, San Francisco, and Hollywood. I reviewed and did a FOTD for each palette earlier this month. Ipsy sent a small compact that had one color from each collection, so 3 colors in total. From the Hollywood palette, I received a deep purple color with a little shimmer. From San Francisco, I received a medium brown color with shimmer. Lastly, the Malibu color was a gold shimmer. All of the colors were very pigmented, and blended well. My opinion since my initial reviews hasn't changed. They lasted well through out the day as well. You can purchase these on bh cosmetics.com. They typically sell for $17.95 a piece. They are on sale for $8.95 right now.

- Coola Mineral Sunscreen Unscented- This is a tinted moisturizer that is organic, and has a 20 SPF. It is hypoallergenic and paraben free. I have tried tinted moisturizers before, but not from this brand. I was not impressed at all. It is white and disappers as you apply it. I didn't feel any moisture or see any tint. It dried quickly, and streaked on me. The only person that could possibly like this, would be someone with very oily skin, who wants an SPF without moisture under their makeup. I appreciate the organic, hypoallergenic, and paraben free characteristics, but I'm not impressed with the feel, texture, and lack of tint. You can purchase this product on coolasuncare.com for $36.

- Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Renewal Beach Spray- This is my first time trying a Healthy Sexy Hair Product. I knew this product really wouldn't be useful for me. I have short to medium length hair and my cut doesn't lend itself to the popular wavy, beachy look. I did try it on a day that I washed my hair. I applied it wet, and let it air dry. I didn't use any other products, because I wanted to see how this product performed on its own. I didn't see any difference in how my hair looked, as opposed to when I let it air dry on its own. I'm not saying this is bad, simply because I didn't expect it to do anything to my length and cut. It did however, make my scalp very itchy. I wouldn't be able to use this no matter what my cut was. Maybe it was the soy. I have not knowingly used a soy product before. You can purchase this product at select salons. No price was listed on their website.

FOTD- Ipsy Glam Bag Products



Eyes- California Collection, Maybelline Define-A-Brow- Medium Brown, Sigma Highlighting Pencil, Almay Intense I-Color Volumizing Mascara- 031 Plum

LOTD- This day was just a weekday of running errands around town. I wanted to be casual, but presentable. I quickly pulled my hair up, and did easy daytime makeup. I only spent 30 minutes on myself, before running out the door.

Monday, July 29, 2013

Ipsy July Glam Bag

For those of you who haven't heard of Ipsy, it is a monthly beauty subscription.  For $10 a month, you receive 4 - 5 products along with an Ipsy bag.  These products could be a sample size or a full size.  Every month is different.  You will receive brands and products that you are familiar with, and some that you aren't .  I began my subscription 3 months ago, and I have been very pleased, so far.  I have been able to try so many products that I never even knew existed! How it works is, you go to  www.ipsy.com.  Then, you create a beauty profile.  You will be asked several questions, from your skin tone and hair color, to your favorite makeup looks and products.  From that profile, your beauty products for the month are determined.  Not everyone gets the same products, and if they do, the colors will vary.  The $10 includes shipping and tax.  You do NOT sign a contract, and are free to cancel anytime.  You are charged at the beginning of the month, and your bag will ship mid month.  It will be delivered to you in a hot pink envelope.  Included with your bag, and products will be a post card listing all the products with coupon codes, in case you would like to purchase more, a full size,(if you didn't receive one) or a different color.  They also have a referral program, which can earn you free products.  If you are interested, sign up as soon as possible.  There is a waiting list to join.  I only had to wait a week, but I have heard of people having to wait up to 2 months.

My Ipsy July Glam Bag Included-

-  BH Cosmetics California Collection- I received one color from each collection.  There are 3.  I reviewed these, and did a FOTD with each, earlier in the month.

-  Benefit Benetint- This is a cheek stain that can also be used as a lip stain.  This was a new product for me.

-  Pop Beauty Pouty Pop Crayon in Rosé Romance.  This is a lipstick, and a cream blush.  This is also a new product for me.  I had never even heard of this company either.

-  Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Renewal Beach Spray.  I am familiar with some Big Sexy Hair  Products, but had never tried their Healthy Sexy line.

-  Coola Mineral Sunscreen with SPF 20.  Another product and company that I was unfamiliar with.  This is a tinted moisturizer, and organic.

So, those are all my products for the month, and of course they arrived in a glam bag.  I have tried everything, and will be posting a review, FOTD, and LOTD in the next few days.

Quote of the Week

Beauty, in projection and perceiving, is 99.9% attitude. - Grey Livingston

Sunday, July 28, 2013

How To Determine Your Skin's Undertone

Until recently, I didn't know my skin's undertone or really how to figure it out.  I thought I was cool, when I am actually warm.  So, here are a few ways to help you determine your undertone.

-  Vein, Hair, and Eye Color
One way to determine your undertone is to look at your veins, on the underside of your forearm.  If they look bluish, you have a cool undertone.  If they look more green, then you have a warm skin tone.  Another determining factor is your natural eye and hair color.  Usually, cool toned people have blue, gray or green eyes with blond, brown, or black hair.  Warm toned people usually have hazel, brown, or black eyes with strawberry blond, red, brown or black hair.  Their hair also tends to have gold or red undertones.

-  Jewelry
You can also use jewelry to help you decide.  If you look better in white metals, (silver, white gold, platinum) then you probably have cool skin.  If you look better in yellow gold, then you probably have a warm tone.  If you look equally good in both, then you are neutral.

-  White Cloth Test
Another way to determine your undertone is the white cloth test.  Pull your hair back, and put a white cloth or shirt around your shoulders and neck.  If your skin looks blue or pink, you are cool.  If your skin looks yellow or peachy, you are warm.  neutrals tend to look greenish.

So, why do you need to know your skin's undertone?  Ever notice how some colors make you look washed out or tired?  Or when you wear a certain color, and you get compliments?  That's because of your undertone.  Knowing your undertone will help you determine which colors to wear when it comes to fashion and makeup.  Cool toned people look best in jewel tones, pinks, blues, pure white, and black.  Warm toned people look best in earth tones, like orange, green, yellow, red, and brown.

Now, just because one of your favorite colors doesn't necessarily compliment your skin tone, it doesn't mean that you can't wear it.  You just need to find a warmer or cooler shade, or wear that color below the waist, so it isn't near your face.  For example, when I went wedding dress shopping, every white dress I tried on looked horrible!  That's why I bought an off white dress.  I didn't know it at the time, but it was because I have a warm undertone.  I also love pink lipstick, but that is a cool color.  So, I try to buy pink lipsticks that have some coral in them for warmth, and try to stay away from the purple based pinks.  Knowing your undertone will also help you with picking your foundation color, which is typically the hardest thing to determine when choosing makeup colors. So, next time you're shopping, take in to account your undertones.  It makes a big difference!

Friday, July 26, 2013

My July Favorites!

I have been enjoying lots of new products this month, but my favorites are as follows:

1. Jennifer Aniston Perfume - Love this scent for the summer!  It's a clean, beachy scent.

2. Revlon Colorstay Whipped Creme Makeup (my color is 370- Natural Tan) - this foundation does NOT move and lasts all day!  Even when sweating for hours at an outdoor event, and the heat index was over 100!  I apply mine with a foundation brush, and set my t zone with powder.  It has medium to full coverage with a satin to semi matte finish.

3. Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner (002 Sparkling Black, 003 Brown, 005 Nude) - I love these eyeliners, and kept goin back for more this month.  They are creamy, so application is easy.  They are great for the waterline, because they are waterproof and don't budge.  Great for summer!

4. Maybelline Define-A-Brow in Medium Brown - I'm new to this product and really like it.  Sometimes I use brow powders, but this is so quick and easy.  The color isn't too red for me either.

5. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles in Brightener Illuminator - I love this product!!  It is a great Brightener.  I do the triangle technique under my eyes.  Got my mother wearing it.  She suffers from dark, puffy under eye circles.  She loves it, and it makes a big difference.  It's better than her Mac Prep and Prime Highlighter Pen.

6. Jordana Best Lash Extreme Volumizing Mascara in 301 Black - This mascara is such a steal!  Great volumizer and lengthener.  After awhile, it can start to get some clumps, but nothing too bad, and still very workable.  Who can complain for 2.99?!  I have only found this at Walgreens.

7. Maybelline The Rocket Mascara - great formula with a great brush that really separates and defines.  No spider lashes here!  I wore this today with my Jordana Best Lash Extreme, and my mom thought I had my fake lashes on!

Beauty Deals 7/28 - 8/03 Walgreens

Walgreens - RR = Register Rewards (if you have a Walgreens card, the rewards can be used on your next purchase).

- Roc Skincare BOGO 50% off
- Revlon Cosmetics and Beauty Tools BOGO 50% off
-  Neutrogena Skincare BOGO 50% off
- L'Oreal Cosmetics BOGO 50% off
- Cover Girl Cosmetics BOGO 50% off
- Neutrogena Cosmetics, select varieties BOGO 50% off
- Nivea Body Wash and Skincare BOGO 50% off
- Clean & Clear Skincare BOGO 50% off
- Simple Skincare 25% off
- Noxzema Skincare 25% off
- Oxy Skincare $2 off
- Neutrogena Sun Care $3 off
- Eucerin Skin Care- spend $15 get $8 RR
- Aquaphor Skin and Lip Care- spend $15 get $8 RR
-  Olay Smooth Finish Facial Hair Removal Duo Kit, Olay Fresh Effects Cleanser 5 - 6.5 oz, Olay Age Defying or Fresh Effects Skincare .5 - 4 oz, and Olay Regenerist Skincare .51 a 1.7oz - buy $50 worth of participating products, get $20 rebate at Olay.com
- John Frieda Precision Foam Hair Color, Hair Care 8.45 - 10 oz., Select Stylers and Treatments - spend $25 of participating product, get 3000 points.
*These are national prices and may vary by state.

Beauty Deals 7/28 - 8/03 CVS and Rite-Aid

CVS- RB = rewards bucks, with a CVS card. (They can be used on your next visit)

-  All Rimmel Cosmetics, BOGO 50% off
-  Wet n Wild Cosmetics, BOGO 50% off
-  All Revlon Cosmetic, spend $10 get $4 RB
-  NYC Cosmetics, BOGO 50% off
-  Maybelline Cosmetics, spend $10 get $3 RB
-  L'Oreal Lip or Eye Cosmetics, spend $12 get $4 RB
-  Simple Facial Care save $2
-  CVS Facial Cleansers, Towellettes, Cotton, or Nail Polish Remover spend $12 get $4 RB
-Tresemme 32 oz Hair Care or Stylers 8-11 oz spend $14 get $4 RB
-  Clear Hair Care $5
-  L'Oreal Root Rescue $5.99
-  L'Oreal Healthy Look Creme Hair Color $5.99
-  Veet Hair Remover spend $15 get $5 RB
-  Nexxus Shampoo, Conditioner or Styler spend $20 get $10 RB
-  ROC Skincare, BOGO 50% off
- All  Aveeno BOGO 50% off
-  Sally Hansen Cosmetics spend $12 get $5 RB
-  L'Oreal Sublime Bronze or Sublime Glow $7.99
-  Jergens Natural Glow $8.99
-  L'Oreal Advanced Shampoo and Conditioner 12.6 oz $4
-  Clairol Nice N Easy, Root Touch up, and Natural Instincts Hair Color $5.99
-  Olay Total Effects Facial- get a $20 mail in rebate when you spend $50 go to www.cvs.com/rebate
-  Olay Facial hair Remover and Regenerist Premium- get a $20 mail in rebate when you spend $50
go to www.cvs.com/rebate
-  Olay Regenerist or Rotal Effects Foam- get a $20 mail in rebate when you spend $50 go to www.cvs.com/rebate
-  Olay Daily Facials BOGO 50 % off
-  L'Oreal Age perfect, Revitalift, and Youth Code BB Cream 13.99
-  L'Oreal Excellence Creme Hair Color $6.99
-  John Frueda Hair Care BOGO 50% off
-  Neutrogena Acne Cleansers- $6.29
-  Clairol Herbal Essence Shampoo and Conditioner 12.6 oz or styler 5.7 -11.5 oz $2.50

Rite Aid- UR= Up Rewards (available with a rite aid card)
-  Maybelline Cosmetics BOGO 50% off
-  Physicians Formula Cosmetics BOGO free
-  Revlon Colorstay Cosmetics BOGO 50% off
-  Sally Hansen Cosmetics, Bleach, and Depilatory BOGO 50% off
-  L'Oreal Eye Makeup BOGO 50% off
-  Revlon Colorstay Cosmetics BOGO 50% off
-  Suave Hair Care, Skin Care, Body Wash and Deodorant BOGO 50% off
-  Roc Skin Care BOGO 50% off
-  Aveeno Skin Care and Hair Care BOGO 50% off
-  Neutrogena Sun Care BOGO 50% off
-  L'Oreal MakeupBOGO 50% off
-  Cover Girl Cosmetics BOGO 50% off
- John Frieda
Frizz Ease, Full Repair, Root Awakening, Brilliant Brunette, Radiant Red, Sheer Blonde, and Luxurious Volume BOGO 50% off
- Olay Skin & bath BOGO 50% off
- Lubriderm Skin Care BOGO 50% off - Neutrogena Cosmetics BOGO 50% off - Clean & Clear Skin Care BOGO 50% off
*These are the national deals and they can very from state to state

Thursday, July 25, 2013

My Journey to health, fitness, and weight loss.

My journey has been a long and hard one, and I'm not sure where to start.  Let me start by saying that I was always a naturally thin girl.  I could always eat whatever I wanted without any worry, and I mean EAT!  You know, the cheeseburgers, pizza, subs, tacos....whatever!  Not just those little girl portions either.  I mean, BIG man portions!  Sweets have never appealed to me.  In fact, most disgust me.  My love was, and still is fast food....Arby's, Burger King, Taco Bell, Wendy's, and Long John Silvers.

As far as working out, I started that fairly young.  I think I was 11/ 12 years old, sitting watching MTV, (back when it was good, and they actually played MUSIC!  Don't even get me started!) and Janet Jackson's " love will never do without you" video came on.  I saw her, and knew I needed those abs!  She was beautiful, exquisite in my eyes, and I wanted it all!!  I didn't know anything about fitness or healthy eating, so I did the only thing I knew to do, sit-ups!  I did them every day, all day...in my room, during commercials, during tv shows, or whenever the thought popped in my head.  Soon after that, I started getting into exercise videos.  I didn't know anyone who actually worked out, so I learned what I could from those.  By the time I was in high school, I had a decent collection of videos.  I did them regularly.  I would work my butt off in our living room, and I didn't care who was there...my friends, my mom's friends, family, it didn't matter.  If it was work out time, it was work out time, and occasionally I would get my mom or a friend to join me.

Then, there was college.  I ate as I always had, but started gaining some weight at 19/20.  I was still working out.  Actually harder and longer than I had before.  One problem, I had been put on a prescription that did cause me weight gain and acne.  After I was off the medication, the pounds didn't leave.  At 21, I met my husband.  I had gotten myself up to a size 12.  He had struggled with weight his entire life, and soon we both packed on the pounds.  By the time we were engaged, (8 months later) I was up to 200 pounds.  He put on 75 of his own.  I was young, so I really didn't notice a huge difference in the way I felt, but I noticed a huge difference in the way I was treated and looked at.  Not by strangers, either.  It was friends and family, but mostly family.  Up until that point, I was perceived as the pretty, skinny girl.  Though up until the weight gain, I wasn't aware of that.  I thought I was pretty, but in an average way.  I would get lots of compliments on my appearance, and was always told I should be a model, but I never took any of that to heart.  I just always thought that people were being nice to me.  I always tried to look my best, and I worked at it, but it was because I thought I had to.  I thought most of the girls in my school were prettier than me, and had better bodies.  So, when your family starts looking at you and treating you differently, simply because of weight, it's an eye opener.  It hurt me, and I couldn't understand it.  Not that they did it on purpose, because they didn't.  I realized that we all have a role and image in our group of family/peers/co-workers, and if that image changes, everything changes.  Now, of course, I knew I gained weight, and I didn't like it, but I was happy.  I had just met the love of my life, and he had asked me to be his wife.  We were planning a life together, and he was completely attracted to me, and told me I was beautiful every single day.

We had a pretty long engagement, 14 months.  I was never in a hurry to be married.  My thought, if we are spending the rest of our lives together, than what's the rush?  So, the next year was wedding planning, and the drama that comes with all of that.  I was caught up in all that, and not focusing on losing weight, until about 3 or 4 months out.  It suddenly occurred to me that very soon I was going to be in a wedding dress, and I wanted to look my best for myself and my husband.  I knew nothing about nutrition.  I had no idea where to start!  So, my mom gave me a diet that she had gotten from our local hospital.  It was a diet that they put morbidly obese people on so they could lose weight quickly before surgery.  It was basically the Atkin's diet, except I didn't follow it exactly.  I ate meat and dairy, and that was it for 3 months, along with grapefruit juice.  I lost the weight, but at times I also lost my vision from black outs, would get the shakes and sweats, and start to pass out on my husband pretty regularly.  It was scary when it happened, but I was getting thin, and at that point, that's all I cared about.  I lost 45 pounds in 3 months.  Not only did I fit into my dress, but they accidentally ordered me a size smaller, and it fit perfectly!  So, my wedding day was beautiful, and I looked the way I wanted.

I stayed on a low carb/high fat diet for 2 years until I got pregnant.  I knew I couldn't eat that way anymore, and my doctors told me so.
I still knew nothing about nutrition. I didn't know what to eat. So, I ate what I wanted, when I wanted. Nine months later, I gave birth at 215 pounds. I went from my thinnest to my heaviest in 9 months. After my son was born, I felt horrible inside and out. I didn't know what to do or where to begin. Losing so much weight just seemed impossible. Plus, my life had completely changed. I went from a married woman working on her career to an overweight, stay at home mom with insomnia, postpartum depression, a colicky baby, and the closest friends or family lived 90 minutes away. I knew that the diet I did before I got married worked, but I couldn't do that again. I couldn't be home alone with a baby passing out and getting the shakes! So, we went to Barnes and Noble one day. I immediately went to the diet and nutrition section. I just stood there with a blank stare....every book had the same claims, but the how to was completely different! Who was right and who was wrong? What would work for me? What could I reasonably live with? I picked up The Eat Clean Diet by Tosca Reno. I didn't know it, but my life was about to change.

I read that book from cover to cover. It was different from the other books. It wasn't about a diet. It was about nutrition. What a concept....an eating plan that focuses on nutrition! I learned about carbs, proteins, fats, and how to combine my foods in a way that best served my body. So, I started giving my body what it hadn't gotten in years. The weight did start to come off, but it wasn't a quick, overnight weight loss. I was also working out, but I quickly learned that pregnancy weight was different. It wasn't as excited to leave, but I was determined. I ate well and worked out ten hours a week, on average. My family thought I was going overboard. I wasn't getting any support or encouragement. In fact, after I was about half way through my weight loss, I started getting a lot of negativity from people. They were fine if I lost weight, just not if I lost too much weight. It seemed like the more I lost, they more they felt threatened in some way. One day that I will always remember, is the day I heard a family member talking about me and my weight loss. They said "don't worry, she'll gain it all back." To this day, that person doesn't know how many times I've heard those words in my head. Every time I hit a plateau, wanted to quit, or wanted a cheeseburger, those words kept me pushing through. There is nothing that pleases me more than proving someone wrong, and prove them wrong I did!!

It's been a decade since I started treating my body the way it deserves to be treated. I haven't gained an ounce, and have since become a certified personal trainer. I am in the best shape of my life, and healthier than ever before. I could talk about my diet and exercise routines, but that's really not what this is all about. This is about so much more than that. It's about getting lost, and trying to find your way back, despite all the obstacles, people, and circumstances that get in your way. It's about understanding your weaknesses, but discovering your strength. It's knowing that no matter what, you won't quit until you can stand with your head up high, feeling so comfortable in your own skin, because you know exactly who you are. Some of those years were the hardest of my life, but I wouldn't change them for anything. They changed me, they helped me understand the struggle without making excuses, and they made me a better person.

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

My Top Ten Drugstore Eye Products

1.  Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Liners- This formula is creamy, easy to apply, and long lasting.  Great eyeliner for the waterline, because it will stay all day.  I have heard that these are comparable, and some believe even better than Mac eyeliners.  They have a good selection of colors, and an incredible price!

2.  L'Oreal 24 hour Infallible eye shadow- I can't say enough about these!  They are highly pigmented, blend beautifully, and are comparable to very high end brands, such as Tom Ford.  They are a drugstore gem, in my opinion.  They are so versatile.  You can use several colors to make a smokey eye or use a single shadow with some mascara for a simple, yet beautiful daytime look.  I can't get enough of these, and always go back for more....I have 18!  Right now, there are 4 limited edition colors from the candy shop collection, perfect for summertime!

3.  L'Oreal Infallible Lacquer 24 hour Gel Liner- another wonderful infallible product!  I love the look of a black liquid or gel liner.  I'm always in the mood for a cat eye, but I find liquid eyeliner harder to work with.  These gel liners are perfect.  Smooth, creamy, and super long lasting.  They are easy to use, and can work with so many different looks.  Another plus, I love the brush!  I have other liner brushes, but always use this one.


4.  Maybelline 24 Hour Color Tattoo Eyeshadow- These are unlike any other eye product in the drugstore.  They are a cream shadow.  What makes these so wonderful is their versatility and long lasting, crease free wearability.  They can be used on their own to create many eye looks, or you can use them as a shadow base under powder shadows.  This will pop your eyeshadow color, and give you an extra long crease free look.  I have heard these be compared to Mac Paint Pots.  They are offered in several beautiful colors, along with their metal collection, which has metallic colors.


5.  Wet N Wild Eye Shadow Palettes(8 colors)-  If you haven't tried Wet N Wild in awhile, you are missing out!  This isn't the same Wet N Wild from many years ago.  They have many great and super affordable products available.  These eyeshadow Palettes have to be my favorite.  They are so pigmented, and blend very well.  They have 3 palettes that are always available, and from time to time, have limited edition palettes. They have 3 shadow counterparts in a variety of colors that are equally as good, but for a dollar or 2 more why not get the 8 shadows?  They retail for only 4.99!!

6.  Physicians Formula Matte Quads- If you are browsing the drugstore for some matte shades or palettes, Good Luck!  They are hard to find!  Most shadows have shimmer or a satin finish.  You may find a few matte singles, but that's about it.  Many mattes tend to be dry or chalky, not these!  There are 3 four shadow palettes to choose from.  They aren't drying, and blend beautifully, with great color options.  Every girl needs at least on of these palettes to round out her shadow collection.

7.  ELF Eyelid Primer- I always use a primer on my lids, because I don't want to be reapplying throughout the day.  A dollar eyelid primer that works!  Need I say more?  You can find these online or at Target.

8.  Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Custom Eye Enhancing Gel Cream Liner- these are the first gel liners I ever started using, and I still think they are great!  They come in square pots that stack together, which makes these great for traveling and storing.  You get 3 shades that apply with ease, and stay all day.

9.  Jordana Best Lash Extreme Mascara- I am new to the Jordana line, and so far, I've been pleased!  This mascara works like a dream and is comparable or better than many mascara's on the market, drugstore or high end.  For 2.99, you don't have anything to lose, so give it a try.  You can find Jordana products at Walgreens.

10. Cover Girl Lash Blast Volume- An oldie, but a goodie. This classic mascara from Cover Girl is a winner that always performs. Great volume and separation....you can't go wrong. Also available in waterproof.

If You Listen To Nothing Else, PLEASE LISTEN TO THIS!!

One of the most important things you can do for yourself, is taking care of your skin.  Like most things in life, you don't get a do over or a second chance, but you can make a difference starting today.  I was blessed, at the tender age of 11, my grandma taught me all about skin care.  To this day, it is one of the best gifts I have ever received!  My mom had allowed me to start wearing makeup.  It was only supposed to be mascara and lipstick, but it didn't last long.  I quickly started pushing it, and before she knew it, I had a full face of makeup on everyday.  My grandma noticed my changes, and decided that I needed to learn how to care for my skin, and properly apply makeup.  I remember standing over the sink in her bathroom while she explained the importance of cleaning and moisturizing every. single. day.  She showed me how to moisturizer, always lifting up on my face, and to never forget my neck.  She assured me that if I took care of my skin, I would have beautiful skin, and the aging process would be kinder to me......and yes, at 11 I was worried about aging! The next day, she took me to our local mall to the Estée Lauder counter.  She had them apply all my skin care and makeup.  They went through techniques, colors, etc.  She, of course, found it necessary to buy me everything (I'm a grandma's girl).  I was so excited!  I loved experimenting and playing around with all my new products.  I guess that's where my love for makeup and skin care started.

Fast forward almost twenty-five years, and I now more than ever, realize what she did for me that day.  I have over the past 5 years developed psoriasis and eczema, but I have learned how to combat that on my own, without prescription drugs or creams.  We all have different skin types, and different needs, and those needs are ever changing.  Whether its due to aging or some unforeseen skin disease or allergic skin rash.  If you don't know your skin type, start paying attention.  Do you break out easily?  Do you have dry patches?  Are you sensitive to products or experience redness?  How does your makeup look in the middle of the day?  How does your skin look or feel when you get up in the morning?  Are you getting age spots or fine lines?  Figure out whether you have dry, combination, oily or sensitive skin.  You may be a mix of a few.  Start researching and looking for products that address your needs.  It's never too late to start taking care of yourself.  Does it take time?  Yes.  Will you have to try a few different things to figure out what works for you?  Yes.  Will it be worth it?  YES!  YES!  YES!

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

FOTD- A Day Out With My Husband

Face - Revlon Colorstay Whipped Foundation, Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles- Brightener, Revlon Photoready Concealer- 003 light medium, L'Oreal Translucide Loose Powder- 960 medium, NYX Blush - PB 04 silky rose, ELF Blush - pink passion, Rimmel Exxagerate Full Color Lipliner - enchantment, Revlon Lip Butter- 045 cotton candy

Eyes- Maybelline Define -A-Brow- medium brown, Physicians Formula- quartz quartet, Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Eyeliner- 002 sparkling black, Maybelline The Rocket Volume Mascara- black

Monday, July 22, 2013

Nails Of the Week

Spoiled by Wet N Wild in Mar-Zi-Panna

Quote of the Week

There is no cosmetic for beauty like happiness. - Lady Blessington

FOTD - BH Cosmetics Hollywood Palette

All of my eye shadows and blushes are from this palette.  Lashes are Red Cherry Rhinestone Lashes #D/006.
Lipstick is Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate - 101.

BH Cosmetics Hollywood Palette- Review/First Impression

The Hollywood Palette is the last palette in the California Collection, and it is also the most unique.  Your initial impression may be that this isnt the palette for you, but not so fast!  Like the other palettes, there are 16 eye shadows and 4 blushes.  I had no fall out, and blending was easy.  Colors range from pinks and reds, to black and silver on the left side.  On the right, there are blues, purples, greens and yellows.  These colors are very pigmented, and are sure to make a statement.  This is not your everyday palette.  This is a fun, night out palette on its own, or you could pair any of these colors with your favorite  neutrals for a pop of color without all the drama. Makeup should be fun.   So, play around and create some new, glamorous looks!

Monday, July 15, 2013

FOTD- BH Cosmetics San Francisco Palette

All of my eye shadows and blushes are from this palette.  Lipstick is Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate- 101

BH Cosmetics San Francisco Palette First Impression/Review

The second palette from this collection, is the San Francisco Palette.  Like the Malibu palette, there are 4 blushes and 16 eye shadows.  There are a mix of warm/cool shades, as well as mattes and shimmers.  This palette has a more sophisticated look.  The left side gives a deeper, smokey look, while the right side has lighter, more muted tones.  In my opinion, this is the most versatile palette, and would be great with any hair color or skin tone.  If you were traveling, this is the only palette you would need, and you could do any look you wanted.  The blushes come in beautiful colors, but use a light hand.  They are very pigmented.  A great palette with many options.  You are only limited by your imagination!

Sunday, July 14, 2013

Quote Of The Week

Life is full of beauty.  Notice it.  Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces.  Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams. -Ashley Smith

FOTD -BH Cosmetics Malibu Palette


All of my eye shadows and blushes are from this palette.  Lipstick is Cover Girl Lip Perfection lipstick - 365 Enchantress.

BH Cosmetics Malibu Palette- First Impressions/Review


This palette is a mix of warm and cool shades, some that are matte and some that are shimmer.  It includes 16 eye shadows and four blushes.  So many looks are possible with this palette, though the colors lend themselves more for spring and summer.  With so many shades, you could create a neutral, natural eye or a colorful, fun look.

Some shadows are more pigmented than others.  Even though this is a drier formula, I did not have much fall out.  I did have a little trouble blending my turquoise shade, but the rest of the colors blended well.  As always, I used an eyelid primer.  The shadow did not move, and lasted me an entire day of housework and errand running.  Great price for quality and variety of colors.  I would recommend this palette to anyone, especially someone new to makeup, because you have so many colors to experiment with without breaking the bank.

Friday, July 12, 2013

Beauty Deals 7/14 to 7/20

These are National deals.  They may vary by state.

Walgreens

- Revlon Cosmetics and Beauty Tools- BOGO 50% off
- Cover Girl Nail, Eye, and Lip Cosmetics- BOGO 50% off
- Pantene Hair Care, Select Stylers, and Treatments BOGO 50%
- Neutrogena Acne and cleanser- BOGO 50% off
- Clean and Clear Skincare- BOGO 50% off
- Sally Hansen Nail Color, Art Pen or Strips- BOGO 50% off
- Clairol Natural Instincts Hair Color- 5.99
- L'Oreal Preference Hair Color- 6.50
- L'Oreal Expertise Hair Care- 5.99
- L'Oreal BB Cream 7.99
- L'Oreal True Match Face Cosmetics- 7.99
- Almay Lip and Eye Cosmetics, Make Up Remover- 4.99 (2.00 eye cosmetics coupon- July savings book)
- Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Care BOGO 50% off
- Garnier Nutriste Hair Color- 6.99
- Garnier Hair Care and Select Stylers- 3.49

Target- Printable coupons at Target.com

- Garnier Oila Hair Color- 9.00 (1.00 coupon at target.com)
- Biore 8 ct Nasal Strips- 6.00
- L'Oreal Advanced Shampoo and Conditioner (25.4oz)- 6.00 (1.00 coupon at target.com)
- L'Oreal Advanced Shampoo and Conditioner (12.6 oz)- 4.00 (1.00 coupon at target.com)

Walmart- Printable Coupons at Walmart.com

- Infusium 23 Leave In Treatment- 3.97
- Finesse Hair Care- 2.57
- Pantene Hair Care- 3.97 (2.00/2 coupon at Walmart.com)
- Clairol Herbal Essence Hair Care (10.1 oz)- 2.97
- Clairol Natural Instincts Hair Color- 5.92
- Clairol Nice N Easy Foam- 7.93
- Cover Girl Lipstick Smoochies- 7.93


Beauty Deals 7/14 to 7/20

These are the national ads.  Sales can vary from state to state.

CVS  (RB= reward bucks, with a cvs card).  RB can be used on your next visit.

- Revlon Nail Polish- 4.99 - 3.00 RB
- Revlon Colorsilk Haircolor- 3.00
- L'Oreal Advanced Shampoo and Conditioner 12.6 oz- 3.99
- L'Oreal Preference Hair Care- 6.50
-L'Oreal Foundation, Powder, Blush, Concealer or Eye Cosmetic- spend 10.00 get 3.00 RB
- Maybelline Foundation, Powder, Blush, Concealer, or eye product- spend 10.00 get 3.00 RB
- Salma Hayek Cosmetics, Hair or Skin Care- spend 10.00 get 3.00 RB
-NYC Cosmetics- BOGO 50% off
- Physicians Formula Cosmetics- BOGO 50% off
- Clean and Clear Facial- BOGO 50% off
- All Lubriderm- BOGO 50% off
- Goody Hair Accessories- BOGO
- Biore Cleanser, Towelettes, or Pore Strips- 6.50
- Aussie Shampoo, Conditioner, or Styler- 3.00
- Clairol Nice N Easy Root Touch Up or Natural Instincts Hair Color- 5.99
- Garnier Skin Care- 8.39 with 5.00 RB on 2
- Lumene Skin Care- spend 30.00 get 10.00 RB
- Crest 3D Whitestrips- 31.99 get 10.00 RB
- Cetaphil Skin Care- spend 20.00 get 5.00 RB
- John Frieda Precision Foam Cleanser- spend 15.00 get 5.00 RB


Rite Aid  (UR= Up Rewards) These are rewards that you get with your Rite Aid Card.

- Revlon Colorsilk Hair Color- 2.99
- All Revlon Cosmetics- BOGO 40% off
- Garnier Nutrisse Cream or Foam Hair Color- 6.99 get 2.00 UR
- Vidal Sasson Pro Series Hair Care- 3.99
- L'Oreal Healthy Look Hair Color- 5.99
- L'Oreal Revitalift, Age Perfect, Youth Code BB Cream- 13.99 (4.00 store coupon -July Video Value)
- L'Oreal Cosmetics- BOGO 50% off
L'Oreal Revitalift Miracle Blur, Triple Power, Age Perfect Glow Renewal, and Select Youth Code- 19.99 (4.00 store Coupon)
- L'Oreal Root Rescue Hair Color- 5.99
- Cover Girl Cosmetics- BOGO 50%off
- NYC Color Cosmetics BOGO Free
- All Almay Cosmetics- BOGO 50% off
- Cruel Skin Care BOGO 50% off
- Neutrogena Lip and Eye Cosmetics- BOBO 50% off
- Suave Hair Care, Skin Care, Body Wash or Deodorant- BOGO 50% off
- Maybelline Eye or Nail Products- Spend 12.00 get 3.00 UR
- Sally Hansen Cosmetics, Bleach or Depillatories- spend 15.00 get 5.00 UR

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Quote Of The Week

Taking joy in living is a woman's best cosmetic. - Rosalind Russell