Highs, Lows & Stilettos

We have a baby!

2011-08-19T18:55:00.002-05:00

Yep, a bit late. Obviously I don't update here very often anymore and spend all of my blogging time on our baby girl's blog now. I had a scary and eventful pregnancy from 20 weeks on. We got a call a few days after the anatomy scan that my cervix looked short and on a follow up visit I was booked for an emergency double cerclage surgery. I was on full bed rest for almost 17 weeks! Then sky high blood pressure lead to a 3 week early induction and now we're parents! The induction went awesome and the Cervadil did great! Didn't even need Pitocin...I'm sure due to my crappy cervix. Finley Lynn was born on May 24th.

Not saying that I plan to start updating a ton on here but figured this was too big to not share ;) So yeah, we have a three month old and she's the light of our lives and best thing ever. I mentioned before but here's the link to the blog about her again.

and here's some photos of our little love.

Birth...

5 Days old...

3 months old...

Well that's all for now folks. Gotta go be productive while little Miss is napping!

How I've been winning free stuff!

2011-03-13T16:44:00.011-05:00

I realize I've been neglecting my blog a bit lately. I'm still on bed rest. Baby Finley is doing great. Just hit the 3rd trimester. The link to Finley's blog is in the prior post if you want to check out updates.

I just wanted to share with you all how I've been earning free Amazon gift cards lately. I earned one within a week of joining the site this week. I choose to get the Amazon.com gift cards because I am stocking up on baby stuff but you can use them to get lots of other free things and gift cards in their store.

It takes a little time to figure out the different ways to earn points by trial and error. I figure if I get one $5 Amazon card a week or so, that ain't bad. $20 a month adds up!

Here's how it works...

First follow the clicky above and join. Start earning points and use them towards your free Swag!

Some ways to earn Swag Bucks...

Use their search engine to search. Also, type in addresses to sites you want to go to when checking your e-mail etc. They add up pretty fast like this is you do it on a regular basis. Installing the toolbar has helped me to use it all the time and you get a point a day for having it installed.

Get codes-Join and subscribe to email alerts from here. My email comes to my cell. When a Swag code is available it will usually send to you if you are subscribed to that thread. Just hurry before it expires.

Watch the daily video (if there is one that day) and do the daily poll... in the drop down window. You can sometimes watch several videos from the main screen too. I've gotten points from watching videos over and over...

Click (skip/next offer) through the NOBO daily. -2 pts

Click into trusted surveys from the drop down. You get one daily point just for clicking into it. Also do the surveys. It can be a pain being eligible at times. Look for higher percentages of eligibility...ones that aren't too hard to qualify for. Above 70% eligibility is what I look for. I hate starting a survey, doing it for 5 minutes and being told I'm ineligible. This is why I only stick with the higher % ones.

Do easier tasks. Finding the okay ones are through trial and error.

You may want to create a junk e-mail acct for doing offers and surveys.

Special offers. These are in the drop down menu too.. (Gambit, Tapjoy etc.) Some of the 30+ points ones don't take much time at all. Some are completely time eaters and not worth it. You can figure that out by trial and error also. Some of them have videos mixed in there that will get you 2pts for watching as well.

It really just takes logging in every day, seaching and doing the main things + a few special offers to start stacking up Swag Bucks.

Referrals! - when they earn bucks through search you are matched with the same amount of points!

***********************

Just wanted to share some of the wealth. If you have any questions feel free to ask. I'm still learning the in's and out's too.

New Baby Blog: Follow me!

2011-01-30T14:09:00.000-06:00

Some big baby/pregnancy updates. Lots has happened. I started Finley her very own blog to document our familys journeys with her along the way. Click here to check it out and be sure to become a follower ;)

To have her story from the very beginning I've back posted some of the ones already on this blog and post dated them while also adding new updates already.

Baby Updates! Anatomy Scan

2011-01-22T20:19:00.003-06:00

As you may already know (from two posts prior) we found out that our little one is a girl and named her Finley. This past Wednesday the 19th we went for our anatomy scan to make sure everything is growing well in there.

I have been feeling her kick for a few weeks now, sometimes it seems like shes trying to jump out. I can even see it sometimes and Joe has felt her too.

Here are some of her pictures.

all looked good and I could feel her moving during the scan. In fact shes moving right now! Lol. She's a very active baby.

She looked nice and comfy in there and kept posing with her little hand under her chin...just like the picture up above :)

I wanted to wait and see her when she arrives but her daddy was not having that and said that he 100% wants to do the 3d/4d scan. We'll let him have his way. Not sure when we will do that yet.

Here are some other things I've bought for her lately.

This headband is for her to wear in her naked butt, sleeping newborn pictures we plan to have taken.

Her very first onesie.

I also ordered the crib today. The bedding came in a week or two ago along with the nursery chandelier. Grandma (my Mom) and I plan to paint the nursery by the end of next month.

Here is the crib I ordered today. It should be here in about a week.

and the bedding set we have. It came from Overstock.com. FYI: We will NOT be painting the walls that color. lol

and last but not least. The Chandelier.

It's a start. I'm taking it all little but little. Glad to have started so that I am able to take my time like this. I realize this post is jam packed. Guess that's what happend when I take so long to post!

I hope all is going great for everyone and the new year has been good to you so far! Until next time!

Mac Product Rave!

2010-12-29T17:28:00.003-06:00

Hello! I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas! We hosted and spent the day with family. It was a great time.

Anyways, My Mom and I made a Mac trip the other day. I had to get some loose powder and studio Tech. I also got a new shadow and 4 pot shadow palette since I've bad three shadows break in my big (15 pot) palette recently. I need to take it easy with that one and not carry it it my purse anymore. I think it just got banged around too much. The four palette will be better to fit in my makeup bag with more cushion to avoid shadows cracking. Here is my new color.

Amber lights (it's a shimmer color)

I paired it in the palette with Nylon, Saddle and a darker brown...cannot recall the name right now.

My mom also got a whole new stock of makeup too... Saddle shadow to be used as a powder brow liner along with an application brush, loose powder, studio tech, expensive pink shadow pot, a four shadow palette for her pots, and a blush.

Okay, to the point of the post!
How did I not know about this stuff???!

One use and I am hooked. I will be a forever user. Best brow color ever. The tip is so fine that there is literally no messing up with it. The color is perfect for me (Fling, the lightest one). It lasts ALL day and does not smudge. It's a roll up, so no sharpening. I much prefer it now over a regular eye pencil or a brush and powder annnnd it's only $15 (original price before pro discount). If you have never tried this brow product, do it!

I also want to add that I now adore the Studio Tech too. I've used Mac pressed powder in the past and been just ehhh with it but I think I found my product in the Tech. Goes on just thick enough but not cakey.

Hope everyone in the blogging world is doing great. I am trying my hardest to not be so MIA. I've been doing some baby shopping so I will be sure and post that fun stuff in my next entry. Bye for now!

It's a ...... !

2010-12-04T21:17:00.002-06:00

So many updates!

Okay first I will start with or NT Scan. All went well and the baby was even measuring a litttle bit ahead of what the doctor had dated us. Guess I gained some of my days back and am closer than I thought to the actual date I thought was correct in the beginning. We'll see at my next Dr appt if she wants to change the due date according to the measurement at the NT scan or still just keep it the same. The NT measurement looked good at 1.5. We were told we would get the results in a few days. Here are some phtots from the scan.

It was so cool at the scan because the baby was moving around and sticking out those lips making little fish lips. lol

Fast forward three days. We get a call from our nurse who is also a friend that the Genetics Center had called her with our results for the Gender Scan! I wouldn't let her tell me until I got Joe on the other phone and put her on speaker.

It's a GIRL!!!

I am so so happy.

I was so convinced that she was a boy that when our nurse friend said "girl" I was like, "what a girl?"

I would have been soo happy either way but only plan on two total (God willing) and knew that I had to have my Girl at some point in time. This will be the first girl in our family in 15 yrs and the first Great Grandaughter.

I was at work upstairs when we got the news and I actually screamed with joy and jumped up. Everyone downstairs thought that I had fallen! lol

More news. She now has a name.

Our scan results came out yesterday. They were great stats and we are very happy with them.

Chance of downs is only 1 in 3000 and chance of Trisomy 18 & 13 are LESS THAN 1 in 10,000. This was such wonderful news to get. Relief.

Since we were able to find out so early by the blood test with our NT scan mentioned here the next 6 months are going to drag. I'm guessing our next ultrasound will not be until 20 weeks, I may be wrong though.

I also wanted to post a picture of the house Christmas Lights that I mentioned putting up in the previous post. Note to anyone out there... Blow up decorations are a pain. Notice you see no inflatable snowman in these photos. That is because he was returned. With a little wind that thing was doing the lean back dance. I couldn't deal with that all month and tore him down. lol. Joe seems to think the wider ones that aren't so tall would cooperate better in the wind. Who knows.

and my tree :)

Have a great weekend everyone!

Updates

2010-11-28T00:52:00.000-06:00

I hope that everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Ours was pretty low key. Joe's Birthday was on Thanksgiving and he had to work. We ate over at my parents and were able to do the feast earlier in the day so that he could eat with us. It was actually nice having everything done and cleaned up earlier in the day this year. My Mom and I made a visit to Garden Ridge where I got all the outside lights and decor for our house. Since this is the first year in the new house we needed everything. I got some inside decor as well. My Mom even got us the cutest ceramic snowman and some pretty festive place mats for the dining table setting. All the inside stuff is up besides the table runner for the coffee table that I still need to find (didn't like any of the Garden Ridge ones)

We also decide to do a little Black Friday shopping. Nothing too early though, I'm not that hardcore. Even starting out at nine a.m I was able to score a great deal on a Pre lit LED tree at the Home Depot. We then headed to the mall, crowds weren't bad. I think all the die hards were already gone by 10:30 when we got there. Since it was raining pretty bad that may have helped too. We scored the Victoria Secret gift bags with $60 purchase even that late in the day after a 25 minute wait in the line. VS had to be the most packed store in the entire mall. The gift bags are a pretty hot pink with a Love Spell lotion, Dream Angels spray and a full size lip gloss. Mom and I Christmas shopped a bit but mainly for ourselves. No fretting though, the stuff is going under the tree! ;) Joe and my dad are so hard to shop for! We decided we'd contemplate for a bit longer to try and figure out what to get for them. We were able to score a few of their gifts though. We then headed to lunch and the Western Store where my Mom got my Dad some really nice boots. All in all it was a good day of shopping and we enjoyed ourselves.

Now baby updates. I am 12 weeks today! We had our Monthly visit on Wednesday. I invited my Mom to come with me this time. It was neat because it was the first time we were actually able to hear the Heartbeat on the Doppler. Heartbeat was 170. It was so funny because once the Dr. found the HB she lost it almost right away. She said "baby moved away". Guess S/He didn't like being poked at! She quickly found it again. I was all smiles. I was a little concerned because my headaches had decreased quite a bit and I've been feeling much better than before. Everything turned out well though.

Next visit is this Monday for the NT Scan. I am excited to see a baby on the ultrasound rather than just a little peanut blob. Our last ultrasound was when I was barely 8 weeks. As I mentioned in the prior post we will be having the blood test done to determine baby's gender and should have the results within a week of Monday. I cannot wait to find out!

As far as showing...sometimes I feel "not as flat in the stomach as I used to" but I really am convinced that I will be one of those late showers. Or so everyone tells me. Don't ya love the un-solicited advice. I've taken one picture at about 10 weeks and really should take another. Once I get a few and actually feel like there is enough to show I will post them on here.

I'll post more updates soon on the NT Scan and the Christmas lights outside! Joe is putting them up tomorrow. I hope everyone is having a great Weekend so far!

Awaiting the stork!

2010-10-27T16:11:00.002-05:00

Surprise!

I wasn't going to share until we got the okay. On our first prenatal appointment two weeks ago I thought I was a little farther along that I really am. When the doctor was not able to find a heartbeat (just a sac and yolk) we were alarmed and told to get blood work done and come back in a week for another ultrasound.

Fast forward a (stressful) week and some not so promising hormone levels that didn't rise as much as they should have...there was a baby and a heartbeat, measuring 6 weeks and 2 days! Our doctor ordered more level checks/blood work. The next levels didn't quite double but were promising. They went from 17000 to 43000 is four days. She scheduled us for yet another ultrasound a week later.

Today was that third ultrasound that revealed a growing baby measuring at 7 weeks 4 days. With a great little heartbeat and we even gained two days! Our doctor was very happy and said that she's going to quit worrying about me now and that I obviously just ovulated/conceived a little later than originally thought.

Our due date is set for June 11, 2011 for the time being. I am hopeful that everything continues to say on track and go well.

In four weeks we are scheduled for the NT/Genetics testing and are so fortunate to live in Houston where the Center for Genetics Testing is located. They offer the gender test as an option along with the other tests. We will for sure opt to do the gender test which is said to be 98% accurate. I cannot believe we will be able to find out the sex in just four weeks (12 weeks pregnant). I hope that all of the other testing goes well and there is no cause for alarm. The next four weeks are going to drag. Hubs has gone to all of my appointments with me up until this point. I asked my mom if she would like to come along for the next one. I'm excited for her to get to see the little heartbeat too :)

There the beans are spilled! I'll update soon hopefully and try to not be such a stranger to my own blog.

I love Halloween time

2010-10-06T21:45:00.001-05:00

This is the best season. This morning it was 49 degrees when I woke up. In Texas! That is the coldest so far this year. If it stays like this thats A okay with me. Of course this afternoon it was back in the 80's.

Anyways, I've never made one of these but hubs always talks about making then as a kid. The other day our niece was over so they got to work. The result...

It looks like it has a shrunken head. lol. This thing actually makes me jump when I open the door because I forget that he is there. It's pretty cool. Notice the Crocs.

Some of our other decor. I might or might not have put this stuff a week prior to October first :x

This year Joe most likely has to work so our niece and nephew will come over to Trick or Treat in our neighborhood since they live out in the country and then we will pass out candy. I am excited since it will be out first Halloween in the new house.

Current Wants

2010-09-27T00:02:00.002-05:00

I know I've been neglecting and I think I am going to work on getting back on it. It always seems as the seasons change my list of wants starts to grow. Here are a few of my current wants.

I have added trese Vans slip on's to my Christmas list. Yes, I already have one. I think they are cute, casual and will go with lots of just bumming around casual items here in Texas during our cold season. I normally wear cute dressier flats and flat boots during the fall/winter seasons so these are a little out of the norm for me, which I like.

I want these Louboutin's bad but I am for sure not going to buy them for my self and I know hubs would never ever agree to spend that amount of money on shoes. To be honest, as much as I want them I couldn't even justify spending that chunk of change on them either. So, I will continue to admire...

This I will get. Unlike shoes, I can completely justify spending $$ on a purse. Guess I am just more of a purse girl than a shoe girl. I plan on buying it for myself in a few months. I have the Speedy 30 shown below in the Monogram canvas already so I want this above Neverfull (in the MM size) in the Damier Ebene canvas. Since my current LV has a arm strap I will like the change of also having a shoulder strap on this new one and also that the strap will be darn brown vs. the current tan on my Speedy, which stains pretty easily.

I know it isn't fashion related but I also really want a new vacuum. Not sure which one yet. Mine has been acting funky lately so I think it is time.

Do you think seasons changing makes your want list grow too? Anything you have been totally eyeing lately?

I'll leave you with some pics from our Florida trip earlier this month as promised in my previous post. We had a great time. As some of you know I am from Florida. I moved to Texas during high school.

we rode this! It was at Universal Studios.

Godniece and I out on the boat.

This is my Godmother (Meme). We were on Cocoa Beach during the Intl. Surf Competition. Good Timing.

Thats all for now. Hope you all had a great weekend. Mine was full of last minute plans but turned out nice. Finished it off with an afternoon at my parents house :)

Where have I been?

2010-08-28T01:54:00.000-05:00

I realize I have not posted in a month now. A few posts ago I expressed that I think I may be burnt out on blogging. I have pretty much basically forgotten about it. I considered deleting but have decided to leave it up and still come post occasionally or when the moment strikes. Basically, I feel like blogging takes a lot of time. Long detailed posts take a lot. Things are going great. I guess it's just that I have somewhat lost interest? I still wanted to come explain my absence though. I'm still alive :) Just backing off a bit...

To give this post some substance I'll leave you with some photos of a recent Brad Paisely concert hubs and I attended :)

We are going to Florida next week so I'll be sure to drop in and share that too.

Do you read? Reading & shopping talk.

2010-07-27T20:12:00.001-05:00

Today was such a great "me" day. Work was slow so I left early and headed to Borders for some browsing fun. There are so many books on my list right now. I just finished the 9th book in the Sookie Stackhouse (True Blood) series. I do not watch the show but plan to after I finish the 10th book, Dead in the Family.

All of my Sookie books are paperback so I'm waiting for this one to come out in paperback so that I can read it and add it to the collection. With that said, I am on a bit of a hiatus from that series for now. Hopefully I don't cave and go for the hardback! This leaves me open for new reads. I 've been considering a Kindle but that is a whole different post.

Back to the point. I never read a book without really committing and I am extremely picky (takes a LOT to keep me into it) so I do research first. I've been considering the Undead and Unwed series for a while now but wanted to wait until I was done with the Sookie books. Then yet another person recommended it to me and I was pretty much sold. Picked up the first book today. Hopefully it's good. It's supposed to be a funny romantic type book about a single fashionista that suddenly finds herself a vampire. Yes, I'm a sucker for all things vamp!

Besides the 10th Sookie book (Dead in the Family) and this Undead and Unwed one I have many others on the list.
-Water for Elephants...Just ordered it and am waiting for it to come in. I've heard great things and want to read it before the movie comes out which I just learned of today! It's not my typical style but it has to be great if so many like it right?? Rob Pats is is it too =D Funny things is when I was reading reviews on the Sookie books way back and decided to read them I had no idea they were a show. Same thing happened with this. I decided to read it about a week ago and then found out today about the movie. I love comparing the two though so it's an added bonus.

-The Shack...I've been told it is amazing. One of my best friends told me about it to begin with and several others since.
-Five Languages of Love...Ordered and expecting it to come in ANY day now.
-I also would like to read a Nora Roberts book because I have been told I would like her. Any recs?
-Hopefully the books in the series following Undead and Unwed, if this first one goes good. They are pretty short books.
-One of my favorite clients passed on the Anne Rice witches series to me. :) These books are long and I hear a big commitment so I am waiting for the perfect time to start them. I have yet to read an Ann Rice book so I look forward to that.

For now I am trying to not look beyond these ones listed. I don't like to read more than one book at a time. At the most two.

**What about you? Do you have something you are reading and love? Or a book that is your absolute favorite. Any feedback on these listed or the Authors?** I seriously love me some book talk! As you can see I sorta favor Romance and women authors.

Oh yeah, I did some clothes shopping today too. With the rainy weather and my yearning for fall I convinced myself that I needed jeans. Yep. Got two new pairs of skinnies. Too bad the temps are still in the 90's. I also found a cute shirt that I just love. The shirt and these new favorite earrings of mine (for now at least) are both from F-21. Ignore the sweat pants. I put the shirt on just for you guys. lol

Off to start Undead and Unwed. I'm excited!

Passing on some freebies!

2010-07-21T11:33:00.005-05:00

I don't normally take the time to sign up for samples. Except for the time I stumbled across the Purex laundry and dryer sheets. I was curious about them and signed myself, my Mom and Godmother up for our very own samples. Those samples made my Godmother and I love them. The advertisement worked on us :)

Then I came across a blog mentioning about some of these samples. I wanted to pass the info on to anyone who might be interested in trying some of this stuff out! Enjoy!

Dove Treatment Conditioner-Intensive Repair OR Daily Moisture

Sign up here (Tampax site) for free samples of Tampax pearl and Pantene as well as other coupons the company (P&G) offers.

Nexus Shampoo & Conditioner. Open this in its own window... http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid88849.aspx

Carolina Herrera perfume sample just for sending an e-card.
http://chfragrances.carolinaherrera.com/index.php?autostart=sampling

***all while supplies last***

Bedroom decor updates

2010-07-18T12:12:00.004-05:00

We've only lived in the new house for about four months. When we moved in our bedroom still needed a few finishing touches. I had purchased black and white damask bed linens that I really liked but after a few washes it had already faded. Hubs told me he really didn't like it to begin with...the truth came out. lol

It was time for a new comforter set. I am so picky when it comes to this. It literally stresses me out searching for hours and hours online since there is no way I would be lucky enough to find just what I am looking for in a store. Finally I found the set I wanted online! Better yet it was at a store and I was able to go and pick it up without having to wait for shipping.

I also added the pictures behind the bed. I found the flower art online and purchased the frames separately. I love this look behind the bed and better yet it cost less than $30 to put together! I think the chandelier hadn't been installed in the original picture but we got it put up shortly after.

Before...

After...

I also wanted to share something with you ladies who are Olive Garden lovers. A friend and I went shopping yesterday and finished off at the O.G. I seem to always choose the same sparkling wine when I go there. It is soooo delish. It is called Zonin Prosecco. They charge $6.75 a glass there but after googling it I found that it's pretty in-expensive for the bottle. You would not be able to tell from the taste though. I find myself wishing the waiter would hurry up every time I order it because it's just so good. It is sweet but not as sweet as Marini and Rossi Asti. Next time you go give it a try or better yet, if you can find your very own bottle get it! :)

Hope you all enjoyed your weekend. Shopping and sleep were the highlights of mine. Which will lead to a near future Mac haul so stay tuned.

Ever feel burnt out on blogging?

2010-07-12T19:36:00.000-05:00

I read so many great blogs and sometimes just don't feel the energy to comment. Lately I haven't even felt like writing my own posts.

I got a flier today from Mac on their new Mascara and after blog cruising for reviews it seems like it may be a flop. I'm still excited to try it though. That would be something that I would normally blog a review on. Or the awesome client that came in today and pretty much made my day. I had a crappy visit to a store the other day and would normally love to share that story here but for some reason I just don't care to take the time to type it all out. I seriously got a big Mac order in the other day and have yet to share that as well. :-0

Do you ever feel this way. Do you ever just get burnt out on blogging? It's like a small guilt that I am not doing something more productive or even catching up on the book that is taking me forever to read. At one time I really enjoyed expressing myself here. I know this place changes direction often based on what is going on in my life. Right now things are absolutely great...why not share. I don't know.

Maybe i'm just in a blogging funk??? We'll see...

July 4th fun

2010-07-06T19:24:00.000-05:00

Every year we go on our annual trip to the river for 4th of July weekend. This year was number year four. It's always the same group and we always have a great time.

This year our river trip was threatened due to hurricane Alex blowing through. Our trip was scheduled to start on Friday and Alex hit on Wednesday so the forecast for rain following the storm was very favorable. We decided to just do it! We expected the worst and hoped for the best. Yes we stayed in tents. I know that if we had not gone and the weather had turned out okay we would have regretted it. So off we went in the pouring and FLOODING rain...then after the 2.5 hr drive we got there. The rain stopped and did not rain the whole entire weekend! In fact, the weather was the best it had been in all years past. Not too hot and no rain! (except for the one little shower the very first night) We couldn't have asked for better. The river water levels were even ideal. This year was our biggest group ever of 20+ people. We actually met up with another group from our town that we normally float the river with and floated with about 40 people. River trips are the best!

note that I sure am putting on makeup in this above photo! lmao

tent camping in style. lol

We came home on Sunday so were were also able to take our niece and nephew to our town fireworks display and then pop some fireworks with them which was also a bunch of fun :) Even if they are scardy cats!

I hope you all had a great July fourth weekend as well!

Food and Wine week fun

2010-06-29T23:03:00.001-05:00

I have been meaning to share with you all the wonderful event that we attended the Saturday before last.

Hubs' work participated in Food and Wine week at the Marriott. We had a good time. It was great to get to hang out with some of his co-workers and eat good food and drink awesome wines. There were literally 500 different wines there for tasting. If you have not tried "Silver"...do it! It is a chardonnay and my favorite of the night! I will for sure be buying some.

Here are a few photos from the night...

P.S- I was wearing heels! =D Hubs and I are the same height, hence the flats at our wedding!

anddd P.SS- I swear there was more than cheese there. We just happened to only whip out the cameras at that booth!

I realize I have not been posting as much lately :-/ I've been super busy working and trying to get ready for our river trip this weekend. That is if this Hurricane coming doesn't ruin it!

What makes me happy

2010-06-25T18:36:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago MjEllis did an entry with a look into her life and what makes her happy. I loved the idea so I decided to do one of my own.

The picture above is after a long day of BBQ'ing at our house. These three in this picture make me happy on a daily basis. Hubs, Chloe and Duchess (our dogs).

What? Florida makes me happy? Well yes. I have been in Texas now for almost 11 years. I came from Florida. I was born there and lived in the same house all the way up until we moved to Tx when I was in high school. The reason why Florida makes me happy is some of the people there :) I love to visit and spend time with my family there. It really brings me back to the old days when my family all lived close by. Now that we are all so scattered I really value the times we all get to be together.

This is my room at work, the spot that I get to be with my clients. I really do enjoy my job and the relationships I have with clients. I have some really great ones. I find myself leaving work happy often after seeing some of my favorites!

Our niece and nephew. They love to come to our house and be bad. lol. J/k. Kaylee is 8 and Cody 3. Kaylee and I have a tradition every year where I take her to the Christmas parade in our town. The second picture is us at the parade this past year. Being an only child I never really pictured having nieces or nephews and these are more than I could ever ask for!

Time with my girls. The nights when everyone gets along. lol. Those are the best!

Wine and the DVR player. When hubs gets off work sometimes we will pop open a bottle, sit on the couch and catch up on our shows together. Those nights really do make me happy.

Usually when I shop I do it alone. I love to shop during the weekdays when the mall isn't busy. I'll even go shopping when I don't need anything. Of course I always find something I "need". The reason why I shop alone is because I like to be alone with my thoughts while putting together ideas, ensembles or decor ideas with no mental distractions. Hubs never complains when he calls and I am at the mall so often because he knows it makes me happy. Also, I think he's just glad I don't make him go with me!

This picture was taken at my parents house. You probably think I am going to say Christmas makes me happy and while it does that isn't what I am referring to. It's just the only picture I could find from my parents house. My pups and I usually go every Sunday, while hubs is at work. They love it when I say "want to go to grandma and grandpas". Sundays at my parents make me happy. We spend time together, eat, watch TV or a movie and then I usually nap...even if I wasn't tired before. I think I just get so relaxed there and am able to let go of all my work/home responsibilities. It's like my weekly wind down and I just love it.

Okay this is getting long. I guess a lot of things make me happy. Looking over it all I can conclude that it's the relationships that really do fulfill me. Other than the shopping one...hmmmm actually, that is the relationship with myself :) I will say that I really enjoyed writing this entry. Now it's your turn!

Another Makeup/Eye look

2010-06-24T13:50:00.000-05:00

I figured I would share another look that I just winged. It's a typical/basic look I tend to do but I like the way all the colors paired with one another.

First, the full effect. Ms. Hark I am taking your advise on the full face photo :) Don't pay any attention to the fact that you cannot even see the shadow in it! I still need work on this step! lol

Here is a close up of my eyes. This picture made me consider deleting this post because the flash mades it all look like one big ball of shimmer blended together, lol

I think this one shows off the lip color, cheeks and eyes together better though.

Only throwing in this last one because the lip color shows more accurately.

Makeup Used

Mac lipstick in Fabby- love this!

Mac Shadow in Nylon (upper lid highlighter)

Mac pigment in Museum Bronze (crease)

Mac pigment in Copperized (lowe lid)

Mac shadow in Carbon (outer "V")

Maybelline Colossal Lash layered with Korres Mascara

Mac Fluid Line liner in Blacktrack (top and bottom)

NYC Blonde liner for brows

Mac blush in Style (my trusty favorite at the moment, it has a pretty shimmer)

Please excuse my bad photos again. I'll work on it :-/

White Watch:Check!

2010-06-22T21:58:00.001-05:00

As some of you may recall I had been putting a lot of thought into getting a white watch. I discussed my dilemma discussed in this post.

Although I really wanted one I still couldn't bring myself to buy it because of the "will I wear it enough" idea.

Then last week at my work boutique shop we got some in. At a great deal too. It's no Rolex or anything but just the style I was looking for. I can say now that I am soooo glad I didn't go out an spend big bucks on a big named brand one though. I've had it since last Thursday (almost 6 days) and have YET to wear it. Don't get me wrong, I know I will eventually. I was right though...I cannot wear it to work and when I go out on the weekends I do tend to not dress very casually. It's time will come though :) It is pretty similar to the Fossil one and only a fraction of the cost. I will say that since getting it I have seen TWO other women wearing the exact same ones in white and in black. I love the crystals around the plate and the bulkiness of it on my dainty wrist.

Combat Cellulite & a great natural body line

2010-06-20T10:19:00.000-05:00

It is very rare that I have this much enthusiasm about a whole product line to actually give them mention.

I'll start with how I learned of Kneipp.

We sell it at my work. It actually happens to be a pretty popular natural line offered in many higher end spas. Up until recently I didn't have much interest in it. Until of course I learned of these two products.

Believe me, I know better than to think that there is a miracle cellulite product for cullulite. It's just not possible. If a company advertises that their product can make all of my cellulite disappear I automatically dismiss their product. However, that is not what Kneipp is claiming. Here is their description...

This treatment cream containing 21% pure Grape Seed Oil, provides the skin with valuable moisturizers, leaving the skin noticeably smoother and suppler. A two-minute massage with the Intensive Cream stimulates blood circulation and supplies the skin with important active ingredients.

Usage:

Apply Kneipp Grape Seed Intensive Cream to the problem areas and gently massage into the skin using cricular motion. Always begin with the legs, working upwards in the direction of the buttocks and stomach.

and to think I almost dismissed this product like all the others. Knowing that products are not actually what combats cellulite...that it is actually the firm massaging action when applying them that in fact reduces the appearance, I was pleasantly surprised that they actually recognized this instead of claiming their product a miracle oil. However, the grape seed oil serves the purpose to moisturize and add suppleness to aid in the effect along with increased circulation.

Diet and exercise are of course the #1 way to fight it but for some even that doesn't completely eliminate that dimply appearance.

When working at a past employer performing laser services I also operated a machine that was featured on The Kardashian show. Kim had it done during one of the episodes. It's called the Vela Smooth. It is offered at many plastic surgery offices and Med Spas. I have seen first hand that it works. It never totally eliminated cellulite on any of my clients but greatly minimized the appearance with about 10-15 treatments done about 2x a week. The machine basically firmly kneaded the skin white a suction action and infared light for heat.

If massaging at home with the friction being the heat inducing factor every day to every other day will have a similar effect at a much less costly price tag I'm all for that.

As I have mentioned, our river trip is coming up so I have decided to give this stuff a try instead of massaging with regular old lotion. I need all the help I can get to be river ready. It's only been a few days so I cannot say anything on results but I will say it smells amazing. Hubs even loves the scent and comments on it every time. The scrub is a very fine texture and the oil is a great thick rich consistency and oddly enough not a greasy feeling oil...

I am looking forward to getting any result I can to be bikini ready for out trip.

With my latest interest in these Kneipp products I also looked into some of their others and came to the conclusion that I think the line is pretty great.

With all the concentration on toxic products lately I am becoming more aware of what I am using on my body and I really do respect the principles of this company and am glad that I am able to offer it to my clients.

Kneipp's Standpoint:

NO preservatives (e.g. Parabens)

NO paraffin, silicone and mineral oils

NO animal-derived ingredients

NO material with a high sensitization potential

I also like that they are well rounded and not only do they promote their products but over all well being along with them....proper nutrition, balance and exercise.

They offer essential oils which I am a big believer in, herbal bath products lotions and oils.

If you are interested in Kneipp check out their site. They have their company information and various items offered. There is even a store locator to purchase it at a location in your area that carries the products.

**I get no compensation/personal gain for mentioning any of the products above and do so on my own solely for the reason that I truly like them. I have not been asked to mention or review any of these items in this blog**

Really In Style Magazine??

2010-06-18T18:16:00.000-05:00

I'm not a huge Megan Fox fan and really don't love the style choices she makes most of the time. Today I was browsing through the July issue of In Style (a little late I know) and I came across a spread on her "10 Best Ever". This was number one. It is made by Roberto Cavalli and was worn to the Transformers premier.

I'm just not getting it. Number one? In my opinion it didn't even deserve mention. Maybe it's just me but I think it looks a bit 1999ish and a tad trashy. I was pretty taken back that it earned the number one spot. So surprised actually that I had to come here for a second opinion.

I think this option would have been a better choice. It's from the Ralph Lauren collection and was worn to the 2009 Golden Globes.

Am I crazy here? Is this red dress beautiful and I'm just missing something? I mean it is In Style Magazine right? ehhhh...

OPI green polish Rave and our new shutters

2010-06-17T17:54:00.001-05:00

Sometimes when my schedule is slower at work I will venture off into the nail room and play. I'm pretty much running out of polish choices in there. We carry Jessica brand polishes. I am not a huge fan ofof them. It comes off on my nails in less than a day guaranteed. With my profession I wash my hands a LOT. They are always in different products and wet so my polish needs to be tough. I tend to try to choose the OPI colors that we also offer because they seem to be stronger than the Jessica ones. This time I choose OPI's At Your Quebec and Call. I would describe it as a frosty golden camo. At first I wasn't sure about the color. After wearing it for a while I really do like it.

Now for the rave. I realize this has chipped a bit at the tips BUT this is after FOUR days. Yes, I said it right, four. That is amazing for me. I am not exaggerating when I say my polish normally lasts 1-3 days and begins to peel badly, lift and chip. Three days makes me really happy usually. I've even gotten to the point now that I avoid painting until the weekends that I am off from work because when I am working they get ruined and it's just not worth my time. I will also add that the four days have been working days, busy at that.

I am not sure what is in this stuff. Maybe because it is a frost? Possibly better stick? I usually avoid frosts because I dent them right away. I think I will try a different OPI frost and see if it is just as good.

_______________________________________________

I also wanted to throw in a quick shot of our new shutters. I feel pretty accomplished. I went and bought them, painted them and then installed them with my dad. My dad is great. Hubs could have done it but honestly he isn't the best handyman. He is getting there though since getting the house. Since he was at work and I wanted them on then and there, Dad helped :)

My dad took this picture of me painting over the screws :-)

I think the shutters look great and really add to our curb appeal. Now onto my next house task...if I can just figure out what I want that to be!

Two Eye Looks-Mac and NYX Shadows

2010-06-16T13:48:00.005-05:00

One mistake I often make when creating eye looks it that I forget to snap a picture. I am trying to get better at that. Both of these looks were fairly simple.

Products Used

Mac Moon Reflection (Blue Color)

Mac Nylon (upper lid highlighter)

Mac Carbon (darker corner v-color)

Mac Paint Pot-Blackground (winged up are in outer corner)

Smashbox Lash DNA mascara in black

*I realize the V color looks more gray than black but that is because it involved a lot of blending*

I use this brush for all of my shading. However, I am looking for something a little firmer but still great for blending. Any suggestions, what is your favorite blending brush?

For this next look. I am currently wearing it. I pretty much just woke up this morning and winged it. It wasn't something I had planned out or anything. The green in the inner corner actually came along very last minute. One thing that you cannot tell from these photos is that I only lined the top, which is rare for me. Normally I line just the bottom or both. Not usually just the top alone.

This isn't exactly an every day look, but it's fun.

Looking at the picture, if I had to do it over again I would wing the green down on the bottom inner corner as well. I was just in a rush :)

Products Used

Mac Nylon (upper lid)

Jane Iredale Taupe (lower lid)-any matte tan color will due

NYX (Green, Yellow & Orange) all matte **shown below with arrows**

Maybelline Unstoppable eyeliner

Smashbox Lash DNA Mascara

I will also mention the lip gloss I am wearing is Mac Prrr and the blush is Mac Style.

Twilight Eclipse Novella-Short 2nd life of Bree Tanner

2010-06-15T13:24:00.003-05:00

As you can see from my right side bar I finished the new "Twilight" book. Not actually a Twilight book but an off spring from them.

**NO SPOILERS HERE** (even though I don't think there are really spoilers for this story)

The main character Bree Tanner appeared briefly in the third Twilight Saga book, Eclipse.

I didn't expect much from this 170ish page short Novella. After reading it I will say I was pleasantly surprised. It was better than I thought it would be. If you are expecting to see your favorite characters, you will, very briefly... in scenes that were already described in Eclipse but of course in Bree's point of view. I thought I wouldn't like it because my whole reason for loving the series is the emotional parts of the story and it's characters but I found myself to really warm up to Bree and her story.

I am not saying the book is a masterpiece or anything but I like the extra info we get on vampire life, specifically a newborn vamp.

I am curious as to whether author Stephanie Meyer will continue the whole "Points of View" themed novellas. I know she started with Edwards and when it was leaked, did not complete it. Now Bree's.....is Jacobs next? That would be nice (but doubtful). I did read Edwards Midnight Sun unfinished version online and that added so much to the saga for me knowing what was going on in his head throughout the original Twilight story (book 1).

A free version of The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner is available online for reading. If you want your own hard copy for your collection like I did it is also available in stores. $1 of the proceeds from each book sold goes to the American Red Cross.

It's a very quick read so if you like it, great. If not, your didn't invest much time into it :)

Weekend Shopping

2010-06-14T11:16:00.002-05:00

I headed over to our mall town center to get some shopping done. I always get the best shopping done when alone and was really in the mood to browse. Most of the trip I had little luck with good findings. I picked up these basics at F-21

I originally tried this shirt on in white. It was see thru. I literally raided the store and found the last colored one. For a basic shirt, I think this is pretty cute.

I'd been meaning to pick up some shorts for our coming up group river trip to wear over my swimsuit and am pretty picky with them. I want them to not bee too tight around the waist, to avoid creating bulge that isn't really there and also not too short. I came across these and they are so comfy too.

Then in the check out line I saw this makeup bag. My Mac one is pretty dead and dirty. Since this one is just the size I need, I grabbed it.

After going to various other store with no luck, my last stop was New York and Company.

I had the best luck here.

I found this shirt and just love it. The photo does it no justice.

I also found this dress. I feel like it can be worn several different ways... Played up or down and accessorized nicely too. Ignore the wrinkles from being in the bag, it needs ironing.

New York and company is hit and miss but really do have some great deals on cute stuff.

Now for the comedy...I picked these hot things up too. From you guessed it. Walmart!

They are for our July 4th weekend river trip as well. The river was recently flooded and tons of debris were washed into it. There are also rocks lining the bottom of the water. Every other year I have roughed it but this year with the debris I wanted to be on the safe side. They may be pretty fug but will keep my feet in tact at least :) Sexy huh? Hubs even got his very own pair!

Products I use every day (or nearly)

2010-06-12T12:02:00.000-05:00

Someone (who I cannot recall!) recently did an every day products post and I found it interesting. I decided to do one for myself. I think the products that we continue to use are pretty much our personal best of the best choices. Or at least best of what we have tried up until this point in time. If they weren't we wouldn't be using them every day right? So I wanted to share with you all my current regularly used products. I will not include makeup because that varies pretty much every day for me, other than a few concrete items.

I always go back to this shampoo/conditioner. It smells great, hydrates and makes my hair un-tangly.

Cetaphil is a great store brand cleanser. Lots of dermatologists recommend it. It gets the job done and at a great price. I'd rather put my money towards products that actually stay on my skin rather than a cleanser. In use the gentle one rather than the normal oily one because that one tends to dry me out. Although, there is one higher end cleanser I love, this is an every day products post so I will not include that since I don't use it currently

For body exfoliation I use a loofah just like this. It is a real loofah and not synthetic. It is great to get my old spray tan off before getting a new one. I wouldn't say I use it every day but pretty often.

Paul Brown Diamond heads is great before heat and to give shine and tame hair. It's very similar to BioSilk but better for the hair because it does not contain drying alcohol like BioSilk does. If you use BioSilk, try this out. I really notice a difference in softness when I use this.

My dermatologist recommended this cream to me. I wash my hands about 10x-20x a day because of work and they dry horribly If it gets bad enough they develop eczema. Since using this I have had no problems. It creates a lipid barrier. This stuff is actually designed by docs and can be found at your Pharmacy in the lotion section. I use it all over.

I use Renova for anti-aging about every other night. This is a prescription product that has many uses (acne, fine lines, pigmentation)

This is Image Skincare Vitamin C Hydrating repair cream. I use it in the PM and sometimes AM too..

My Image Ageless Exfoliating Mask is used about every other day. It has Glycolic in it as well as Crystals so it is a chemical and a manual exfoliator.

This skin hydrating booster is used before my other products. Usually in the AM to plump things up :)

One of my FAV products . This Image Skincare Environmental (SPF) Moisturizer. It contains anti-aging ingredients AND doubles as a sunscreen.

I use this as an eye cream around my eyes and laugh lines. It is firming and contains antioxidants+vitamins. Only in the PM.

On days that I use hairspray, this is the one. It's cheap and works great.

Last but not least, if you've read my blog lately you will know I love this. I don't use it daily but on days in between washes or even when I want some added texture I whip this out. Here is my review.

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I am constantly changing my routine. Although, several of these products are among the ones I always use, I do tend to switch it up often with a few.

Are any of these items ones that you use too?

**This post contains products that I personally like and choose to use. I get no compensation for posting about these items**

How safe are your products/makeup?

2010-06-11T11:50:00.000-05:00

I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that I went to a class on one of the product lines we sell at my place of work. The company really tries their best to do the right thing for their customers. None of their products contain parabens and they try to make everything they sell as safe as possible. This isn't always easy (cost effective) and sometimes not 100% feesable due binding agents and preservatives that most products and products require.

However, you might be surprised to find out just how bad some of the ingredients in your favorite products actually are. Some lines thought to be completely safe are sometimes the worst, including some products intended for babies! I recall testing various products back when I was in esthetics school with a pH pen...we actually found some very popular baby products to be extremely alkaline! Do not always believe advertisement. See how your products rate for yourself.

Keep in mind that it is rare that you will ever find a product that has an absolute perfect rating. I have come across a select few but for the most part nothing is absolutely flawless.

www.safecosmetics.org/

www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/

--I am in no way affiliated with these sites or trying to advertise for them. I just find them interesting & imformative--

Tv Talk: The Bachelorette

2010-06-09T17:45:00.000-05:00

Can I just say I am already ready for Monday? I am really digging the show this season. I loved Ali competing on the Bachelor and am so glad she is the new Bachelorette this season.

I slipped recently and could not resist reading spoilers. :-x I will go on though and not reveal anything as if I'd never even read them. No spoilers here...

My take:
Mr. weatherman, Jonathan...he is not representing our town well. He is so odd.

Wresteler guy- I wan't to like you but you kinda sorta seem ""playerish". I have been a taken girl for a long time and hear lots of guy talk and you mister seem like one of the ones who share bad guy talk...lol

Frank. I heart you. Ali, pick him!

Roberto- My second favorite to Frank. I love their fairy tale passion they already have! Plus he seems so sincere.

Kasey, shut up. You annoy me. I think it's the voice...

Like I said. I know ALL the spoilers now. I may not be listing every guy here and there may be ones who will make big impact not listed here. These are just the ones that I have something to say about as of now.

What about you Bachelorette watchers. What is your take. Have you read spoilers? Don't yell at me for reading them...I know, I know!!

Girls night out:Baseball fun

2010-06-08T14:21:00.001-05:00

Not sure how interesting this may be to you all but I forgot to share and really wanted to since it was such a blast. Myself and some of my girlfriends went to the Astros/Cubs game this past Saturday. It was sooooo much fun. I was shocked at the amount of Cubs fans there that actually flew from Chicago for the games. Thats hardcore. Anyways, we had a blast. After the game we headed to the bar across the street called "the bus" that tons of fans from the stadium go to after. That was a bunch of fun too. Here are some of our girls game night photos.

As you can see we had great seats. 20 rows behind the dugout. The tickets were given to us and it was a great surprise.

Then at the after party (even though home team lost, lol)

Drink more Green Tea! For your health and beauty.

2010-06-07T22:52:00.003-05:00

I've always liked green tea. It wasn't until recently that I made a promise to myself to drink it more often. Now, I try to have at least 3-4 cups of hot green tea a day. So far, so good. I have accomplished my goal going on two weeks now. I have not mentioned this much in my blog...trying to not jinx myself I guess but I am on a health kick right now. A doctor told my Godmother she had bladder cancer a month ago. After a month of hell, we found out that the doctor was mistaken. We are so very relieved that she does not have cancer (and of course livid with the doctors mistake). This really opened my eyes to aim for better health though. Of course every year I get in better physical shape for our July 4th river trip but this time it's not just for looks but over all health.

Do you know how beneficial green tea really is for our health? This is proven stuff. There is scientific research behind these findings. Research has proven that a compound in green tea that actually inhibits the growth of cancer cells. That is big. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. I want all the help I can get for my body to have a fair fight from early on.

The reasoning behind green tea's greatness are the antioxidants it contains. Antioxidants fight harmful free radicals which can tamper with our DNA and damage cells throughout our bodies.

Free radicals wreck havoc on our skin and aide in skin/sun damage and wrinkles due to the altering of skins DNA and inflammation. The antioxidants in green tea can actually protect our skin from those free radicals! How cool is that? (of course always wear your sunscreen)

There has also even been research that green tea can help aid in weight loss. The polyphenols it contains are responsible for the herb's fat-burning effect.

These are only a few of the documented benefits green tea has to offer. It can be taken daily in a capsule. However, I prefer to drink mine. I prefer not to drink it plain but instead of adding sugar, use honey rather than granulated sugar. I never ever use sugar substitutes, ever. I even avoid chilled diet green tea (already made) or any diet drink for that matter. The brand I like right now is this Lipton one in the Orange, Passion fruit and Jasmime flavor combo.

I also have this one (above) in the Super fruit Red Goji with Rasbperry flavor. It's not my favorite though. It is actually somewhat bland.

I think once these run out, which should be soon I will try out the Tazo or Celestial ones.

Do you also enjoy green tea? Do you have a favorite brand?

Cheers!!

Tresemme Dry Shampoo Review

2010-06-05T01:04:00.002-05:00

As soon as I heard about this stuff I knew I had to try it out.

I would say I am pretty experienced with dry shampoo. I have tried KMS, Rockaholic and now the more affordable Tresemme. Before trying out Tresemme dry shampoo I'd heard that it goes on pretty white, which isn't a surprise to me really because they all do. I'd also heard that it makes the hair sticky and rough to where you cannot run your fingers through and diminishes softness.

So my take on it...I love it. I will admit that it does make the hair feel a little rough and not so soft, but not sticky. Yes it goes on a little "wet", not drenched or anything though. It dries very quickly to a nice finish. The key is to use very sparingly.**Mist** Do not over apply in one spot. It gives amazing texture/thickness and really absorbs all excess oil. I love the volume it creates. When putting it on I first misted over the top of my head at the roots. Then I lifted areas to lightly mist over those roots too and my bangs. The volume was literally awesome, unlike any other dry shampoo I've used. It's almost like it puts a coating to build up the hair so that it appears thicker without weighing it down one bit. That is great for my fine, limp hair. As for the whiteness...just flip your head over and blend it in with a brush or your fingers. I actually like it because if I happen to be close to needing my highlights re-done it conceals that. Even with my blonde hair though I still have to blend it in. I can imagine those with darker hair really having to blend. It does seem to put off more white color than KMS and Rockaholic. I am guessing it has more powder causing the excess white and the added texture. I see why some may not like this if they already have really thick hair. Then again most day after hair does weigh down and this gives it that fresh boost. I even used this tonight after washing and styling to add some texture for teasing and to give my bangs a boost.

I have dry hair. This product comes in two formulations. One for dry hair and one for normal/oily. Not sure what the dry one would be for since the whole point of a dry shampoo is to absorb oil and 2 day hair is not normally dry. So yeah, I got the normal/oily one. I really didn't have to make a choice though since CVS was out of the dry one anyway.

I have a feeling this product is going to be a new must have for me. I really like it. I actually like it more than the others. I've always had a hard time styling my fine/limp hair and just love the texture and workability this gives. At the price of about $5.60 it is hard to beat too. I actually got mine for $3.50 with my CVS card because they were having a deal on it this week. I need to go back for another bottle to stock up!

I think some products work for some while maybe not so well for others. I can understand why some may not like this product. However, it's definitely worth a try. I think it's something that you have to know how to use correctly too. Like how I mentioned working it in and not over using or putting too much in one spot.

I hope you all found this review helpful. Have you ladies used dry shampoos or tried this one out yet? Do you plan on trying it out?

Don't let the name fool you:Cosmeceuticals

2010-06-02T23:05:00.002-05:00

I've noticed that several skincare lines are now referring to themselves as "Cosmeceuticals", usually upper end or spa lines.

I have been informed of the amazing advantages of these types of products over products just classified as cosmetics. So of course had to look into the validity of all the seemingly un-real hype before sharing this info with my clients on the claims that set cosmeceuticals apart from the others.

I wanted to share with you all also. From what I found the FDA "does not recognize any such category as "cosmeceuticals." A product can be a drug, a cosmetic, or a combination of both, but the term "cosmeceutical" has no meaning under the law".

Cosmetics are able to be sold before being approved by the FDA, unlike drugs or cosmetics that are classified as a drug. For a product to be able to be classified as a "drug" (such as Retin-A or sunscreens) it would have to be approved before being allowed to be put into consumers hands. Drugs are meant to cure, treat or prevent a problem, disease or affect the structure of the human body...thus the approval by the FDA that the cosmetic drug can do what it claims and of course to insure safety. *I will also throw in my own little tid bit that just because FDA has approved it does NOT mean it is entirely safe and a wonderful product. But that is a whooole different story and completely off subject.*

Cosmeceutical refer to a product that is said to have medicinal or drug-like qualities, or could actually in fact be classified as a drug. Not saying that the product is not a great product. A large amount of products in my cabinet are classified as drugs by the FDA and are great products. Those very same products are also called cosmeceuticals by their makers. They are great products. My take is that the company thinks this term sets them above just plain old cosmetics, and they very well may be above par (in reference to quality ingredients and the amounts of those ingredients) but all in all it is just a term. I could go mix a mask in my kitchen and call it a cosmeceutical if I really wanted to. Weather or not the term is used to set the product above others or for better marketing (the more likely answer) it is just a term with no real classification. I would not look down on a company for using the term and truly believing their product is above the others. Like I said I have some great products that use the term but it's also definitely not a word to see and think the product must be great. Always look into it and research those ingredients on the back in the order in which they appear.

Hope this clears it up for anyone who has heard this term and wondered or even thought that a cosmetic was different from all the others because of it.

Happy almost Thursday!

15 beauty Q&A

2010-05-31T13:34:00.006-05:00

1) What is your favorite style to wear?
It varies. I usually go for ruffles, form fittting, flattering stuff. I don't like anything grungy really. I like dresses and also cute short/shirt sets right now. I'm also currently digging rompers.

2) Who is your fashion role model?
Is it odd that I really do not have one? Sure I get ideas from various celebs but I never really like EVERY.SINGLE item that a certain celeb wears. Honestly, I get more inspiration from blogs and trend watching at the mall!

3) What do you always have on?
Of course my wedding and engagement ring. Also my diamond earrings that I wear in the 2nd hole and my cartilage stud. Oh and my navel piercing. Other than those jewelry items, that's it. Unless you consider the black flats I wear almost daily to work. lol.

4) What are your favorite jeans?
My forever 21 skinnies. I only wear skinnies now in fact.

5) What are your favorite sunglasses?
I would like to say my wonderful Armanis my hubs bought me or my Pradas but honestly....my cheapies from Forever 21. I wear them most often.

6) What are your fave shoes? these.

7) Who influenced you to make fashion videos? Who influenced you to write about fashion?
I wouldn't say I really make videos. I have twice when I was lazy. Blogging, I really just blog about what interests me. It is meant to be about my life an interests. It isn't always beauty stuff. That tends to be a huge interest of mine so it also tends to make up a large number of my entries. When I started this blog right off the bat I posted beauty entries without even realizing it...then it just kept on in that direction. I am an Esthetician so a big part of my time and thoughts belongs to vanity :)

8) What is your fave store?
I shop most at Forever 21. I also love Macys. Espress, Marshalls, Target.

9) Who is your fave fashion person on YouTube? I love EnKore, he is so entertaining. I also like Pixiwoo

10) What is your favorite fabric?
I do not have one. Although spandex is up there ;) I kid. I kid.

11) Who is your favorite model?
No answer here either.

12) If you had $ 5,000 to spend on any one item, what would it be?
One item? hmmm. How about 2 or 3? I would get another LV, some Louboutin shoes and blow the rest on clothes.

13) Heels or flats? I wear flats a lot in the day. But for nights out, heels.

14) What purse do you currently use?
LV Speedy 30

15) Is fashion in your blood or your jeans? I had to learn everything I know...

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I hope everyone has enjoyed their Memorial weekend.
We are having family gathering at the house to cook out and I had to share with you all the cupcakes I made. I'm sorta proud of them. lol. Ignore the redness that leaked through the frosting.

Guest room & yard decor updates

2010-05-27T23:04:00.006-05:00

I cannot believe it's already been two months since we moved into the house! Everything has been coming together well. Like they say, it really is a never ending job!

I always said that the guest room would be the last thing I worried about, once everything else was at least in order. Well here it is!

The paint color is Vintage Yellow by Glidden. I love it and am proud to say I painted the entire room all my myself while hubs was at work. Woo Hoo!

I am so glad to have finally made it to the point of getting the furniture for and decorating the guest room.

Hubs was super nervous and irritated that I wanted to paint the room yellow but you know what...I had a vision! lol. He really likes it now though. It's pretty much complete other than that I want to add a few more decorations to the side walls.

Guest room, check. Guests? Not so much....lol

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I also wanted to show you all the tree that I sweated for two hours at the garden center deciding on. I would find one and the Google it on my phone to see the full grown size and to make sure it wasn't intrusive and yadda yadda. So many people plant trees without thinking about proper placement vs type for the area they are planting in. Once I decided on it, instead of walking ALL the way to the front of the garden center to ask for assistance I just carried that baby by myself. The worker guys looked at me like I was crazy carrying this big tree such a distance. Haha! I am normally a weakling so I was pretty proud.

Having a house has changed me. Even though I am married my hubs works a lot so I have really become much more independent and proficient in the past two months.

My choice you ask? The Flordaking peach. Yes, I meant to leave the "i" out of Florda, That is how it's spelt. It's a bigger peach tree (when full grown) so it will be about 25ft. We are so excited to have peaches hopefully by next year.

I also planted flowers around it. This is really odd for me, but since buying the house and having a yard I really enjoy yard work. I even mow and edge! I joked with hubs and said "I make yard work look good" :)

(it isnt crooked, thats just the picture angle)

Just wanted to pop in and share. We are about to go do a late night grocery shopping trip! Bye!

Work or Pleasure: New Mac goodies Vlog

2010-05-24T20:54:00.002-05:00

Yes, another Vlog. I really didn't plan on anymore but since I am tired from painting and putting up the guest room furniture until 2:30 a.m last night, this was easier than typing and posting photos :)

Now I still find myself typing because the video got about 30 seconds too long and I had to clip off some of the beginning. Grr

My co-worker and I went on a little Mac Makeup trip today after a Paramedical Skincare class on products we use/sell at work. The class was held in a hotel ballroom that is connected to our big area mall. We were in class for almost 7 hours. We had to wake up early to battle rush hour to make it in time, yes after the bedroom painting last night. So yeah, we left class a little early to run to Mac early enough to beat the PM rush hour. Guess what? We stayed in the store a while and still got traffic. Oh well... Here is my new stuff, and some goofiness too. I love watching these and laughing at myself. I really do. Sorry my voice gets little quiet in some spots.

P.S- You get to see both of my babies is this vid :-D

Sephora Lip Attutude:My "nude" hunt is over

2010-05-21T22:18:00.005-05:00

As I've said before, it's typical April fashion to obsess over things. This time it was a nude lip color. Who knew this task could be so difficult. Well, I found it and in a lip product brand new to me.

After raiding various drugstore's it was time for a trip to Sephora. I was nearly to the end of my visit with still no luck. Until I browsed the Sephora collection....this is from the Lip Attitude Glamour line and called Dulce Nude G20.

Described like this on their site...

Rich color can still be natural looking. This unique formula combines long-lasting wear, vibrant color, and moist, see-through color. The effect is nothing short of naturally glamorous.

So my opinion on how it wears: First off it tastes horrible! The taste almost makes me not wear it as often. If you can get past this though, it is very nice. It has a wet shine to it and really feels like a nice creamy consistency. It is not really long lasting or anything, just normal...maybe a little above par. I like the pigment a lot though. It is not drying at all. Very hydrating.

When I was on my hunt, the main problem was that the colors were either way too dark or almost a tacky chalky color. Here is how this one turned out. These pictures aren't really 100% true to color...but after numerous shots, it's all I've got. lol. It looks almost translucent here but really can be seen in reality.

For anyone looking for a nude color or even a nice wearing, nice feeling lip color I would say try the lip attitude out. If you can get past the taste it really is a good lipstick.

Do you all like nude lip color? Have you found one for you? If so, was it as huge a task for you as it was for me? I would be open to trying out a new one with no so bad taste...

Hope you all have a great weekend. I plan on some shopping and a lot of relaxing. Girls night last night did.me.in. A happy hour, then a power hour...then a third bar of the night to meet with the guys was too much fun. Today though....not so much. I am exhausted. I headed to bed right after my early day at work and here still I lay!

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Oh yeah, look what came in yesterday! I've already started making my goodies list and planning for Pro classes.

NYX 78 shadow palette review & My MacPro Card!

2010-05-19T23:36:00.005-05:00

A few weeks ago I ordered the 78 shadow palette from NYX. I purchased it from cherryculture.com only because they seemed to have the best prices on NYX makeup. I was given their pro discount through the official site but it was still a better price going through this other site without the official discount.

I love to try new looks and figured this would be a great buy to give me an array of colors for every look I could imagine. Some of the tutorials on YouTube that I duplicate use some funky color combos that I do not have. Honestly, my kit is fairly neutral. With this set having such a vast array of colors it was just what I was looking for.

Since it was such a great deal I will most likely also use it for when I do makeup on friends/family and possibly even clients at work when our stocked makeup line just doesn't have the color I am looking for.

On to my review:

For what this palette cost, it was an amazing deal. There are so many pretty colors. Some have shimmer while some are matte. I love that. None of them are really heavily shimmered, which I do like at times. All of the colors have pretty good pigment, none bad that's for sure. However, some of the pigment in some are better than others. I think the darker colors have better pigment. A few of the lighter ones I find to not be as lasting or visible. If you don't like one, there is still 77 others to choose from though right? The size of the pots are fairly small, but still sufficient. There are 6 much bigger pots of the more commonly used colors. More commonly used for others but maybe not me? I am not sure how much I'll use those two huge brown ones. Maybe for a bronzer?

I did find that one of the small medal shadow pots did come out. Luckily it didn't fall to the ground and break. I anticipate this will probably happen again. So if you buy this kit, keep that in mind and have some Gorilla Glue handy.

The make of the compact is nice and looks attractive in my opinion. If that matters to anyone.

I have not been able to try all of the colors yet being that there are so many. From what I have used so far, I am really enjoying this set. On a grading scale I give this kit a "B" only because of the non-vibrancy of some (very few) of the lighter shades and the non-sticking shadow pot. Definitely recommended.

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I also wanted to mention something that I am ecstatic about! I was approved for my Mac Pro card! I applied a few weeks back and discovered my account was debited for the small member fee the other day. Meaning my card should arrive in the mail soon.

I applied for the Makeup Artist membership since I do makeup at work. The discount for that is 40% vs. the 30% for Licensed Estheticians. I don't see why any Esthy applying who does makeup wouldn't do this for that extra 10% off...

I am so excited to further build my kit and to participate in the Pro classes with my co-worker who informed me about this awesome card. I want to learn more "out there/creative" eye techniques that are still acceptable for evening looks.

I love Mac makeup and the versatility of it. Mac has such a vast array of choices that it can be modest to funky and everything in between. The products are always cutting edge with new concepts/colors that have such great pigment. I don't really like their bases however and find them to clog pores but everything else in my opinion is great. Watch out friends, family and co-workers...I need your faces to try out new ideas!

**I am not affiliated with any of the sites mentioned. I purchased these products with my own money and reviewed them at my own free will**

Fab Summer 2010 Polishes!

2010-05-13T12:58:00.004-05:00

Reading through the new Glamour magazine I came across some photos of the new summer collection of Essie Polishes. I really liked what I saw. After going to their site I learned that there will actually be two new collections this summer!

Summer 2010:

and summer 2010 resort collection:

I really like both collections! I will for sure be buying a few of these. Among my favorites are...

-Haute as Hello

-I am really curious to try out that green "Pretty Edgy"... it's daring for sure!

-I love "Laps of Luxury"

-and pretty much every color from the resort collection. I just might get them ALL!

I also ventured on over to OPI to check out their summer collection for 2010. My though was "ehhhh". They are okay but nothing special in my opinion.

I just feel like I already have pinks in my polish kit that are so simalar to the one in this collection. I question how the orange one will look on...it could be hit or miss. The blue i'm not a big fan of.

But ohhh those Essies. L.o.v.e.

What do you all think?

I'm going to have to get some of these soon!

My 1st Vlog! I won a blog Giveaway

2010-05-10T00:11:00.002-05:00

This is my very first Vlog, ever.
Bare with me and don't make fun. Bahaha
Yes, I realize that I "really really like" everything and that it's all so "cool" and that I am totally "excited". I seem to say that a LOT. lmao ;) Yes, I am a nerd.
P.S all these wonderful items were won here!
Enjoy!

My Watch Crush

2010-05-06T22:38:00.002-05:00

Ever since the movie Blind Side I've had white watches on my mind. I loved Sandras white watch in that movie. It was big and really stood out. I guess that is why I noticed it because I normally never notice watches. I did my research and found out that the one Sandra Bullock wears in the movie is made by Toy Watch and retails for $295. Here it is...

Considering the fact that I never wear watches, I'm really iffy about getting one for that reason. My profession does not allow for wear of jewelry on the hands or wrists being that I do facial services. It is not really sanitary,can scratch clients and just gets in the way.

Then a few weeks ago a client comes in with this baby on...I was instantly in love.

It is by Fossil. I like it even more than the one by Toy Watch. I found it on Ebay brand new for about $80. I still find myself in the same predicament though...will I wear it? If I do, it will literally only be on the weekends. I have to consider though that on the weekends I usually dress up when we go out and who's to say this will even match my outfits half of the time. I'm torn.

I have no problem spending money on nice sunglasses and handbags, things I use often. Hubs has a nice watch and also cannot wear it to work. He commented that he loves it but it;s unfortunate that he rarely gets to wear it. I really like this watch though.

What about you? Do you wear a watch? I don't think I have in about 6 years!

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In other news by baby girl Duchess gets fixed tomorrow.

Of course I am a nervous momma for my girl. I know she will be okay and it's for the best and her health. I just feel so bad because I know she will be in such pain. Every time I look at her I think "oh poor baby". It wasn't too long ago (about a year or so) when my other baby Chloe got fixed. I totally babied her because I felt so bad for her little pitiful self. Here it comes again.

Night all!

"Authentic" Louis Vuitton

2010-05-04T13:39:00.009-05:00

I cannot say how many people I've come across who got a great deal on their LV handbag. The story that they got it from friend of a friend that "knows someone" is all too common. Or even that they got it in New York because "they have better deals on them there". Hmmm

When these people tell me about the great deal they got for their bag, "It was only $250" I really do feel for them. Maybe to some ignorance really is bliss. I was actually asked today how much I paid for my LV Speedy. When I stated the price I was told "oh no, next time come to me and I will talk to my friend and get you the hook up". No thanks. To think she fully believes her bag is 100% authentic!

So hopefully this post will educate someone, anyone.

Louis Vuitton along with several higher end items that are commonly replicated are not sold on the street or in the back/hidden section of the knock off stores. People where I'm from often go to a certain area of town and ask to see the secret selection in the back area with the idea that they are getting in on something good and real. They are not, it's just the higher end brand fakes at usually higher prices. There is no way for random people (aka- your hookup) to get shipments of this stuff to be able to sell it at good prices. The company is selective about who their bags will be shipped to and will only sell through their authorized stores. Not individual rinky dink dealers. They can also be purchased on Louis Vuitton's direct site of through their direct hot line. eLuxury used to be authorized dealer but they are no longer in operation.

Also, Louis Vuitton does not offer deals or sales, ever. They are popular enough that they do not need to. In fact their prices usually rise with time. If someone tells you that their source is a LV sales associate using their employee discount know that the discount is only 30% off and employees are very limited in the amount of bags they can purchase with that discount, that source is most likely false. So if it's a too good to be true deal...run. Unless of course it is a used bag. I know of one site that does sell authentic used LV bags. Not too sure if there are more out there on the web.

I am sorry but I would not pay $200+ for a fake. Why not just go to Old Navy, Target, Walmart or anywhere for that matter and spend your money on a cute bag rather than spending hundreds of dollars on a fake and supporting this illegal business. To me the point of having a high end bag is my piece of mind knowing that it is real.

LV bags are made to a certain standard. If you see a bag for sale and you cannot find that LV ever sold it...its a fake.

If you handles come wrapped in tissue paper...fake.

Price too good to be true...fake.

Canvas inner lining...fake.
you should also be able to tell by the quality of leather, hardware and the stitching technique.

There are many other signs to tell if a bag is fake but to truly avoid it don't take your chances. Replicas are getting better and better these days. It's even harder now to spot fakes. Buy from an authorized dealer and there will be no question as to whether your bag is real or not.

LV can ONLY be purchased through authorized dealers (LV stores) to be able to guarantee that it is authentic and not a fake. Think your guy is "authorized"? In my large metropolitan area Saks, Neiman Marcus and the actual LV store are the only authorized dealers. That gives you an idea of the types of places you should be looking. I know in other places Macys and Bloomingdales are authorized...it will be a reputable store. To find a dealer in your area just go to the official Louis Vuitton site and do a search of your area. This is the only way to guarantee that it's not a fake. Some countries set prices are slightly lower than that of the USA but I mean very slightly.

Off my soap box now! I hope these tips help someone. Seems like there are a number of people out there who don't know this info yet. Maybe not you fashionistas though, right? :)

Weekend Shopping

2010-05-02T21:49:00.005-05:00

After being in bed sick all afternoon yesterday until one this afternoon heavily medicated on NyQuil I decided today that I was bored! Sick still? Yes....but still bored. I do feel a little better than the pure horribleness I felt yesterday but I'm definitely not 100% yet, more like 65%.

Anyways, with the bright sun shining in I decided to get my butt out of bed, get dressed and go shopping.

The start of my ventures were no good. I found nothing at my always reliable Forever-21. I then strolled on to Ann Taylor Loft with no luck. They were having some great sales on cute dresses but the one I liked of course was not available in my size. On to White House|Black Market, again no luck. The lack of luck continued on throughout my shopping trip until I was passing the dreaded 5-7-9. This store normally kills me. I hate the way they cram everything so close together and it all seems very teen-ish in my opinion. So, I see this sign outside that they are having a deal on Rompers. Well what do ya know. I found my first purchase of the day and at a great price too, with tax...sixteen bucks. Note: I do not think all rompers are created equal and some are just horrid but I also think they can be pretty darn cute. This one is very simple.

After my mall excursion I was on to Target where I purchased this dress. I'd tried on one similar at F-21 last week but found it to be way too short! I made a mental note to find another one in the same style though. Then one of my Facebook friends posted some photos of her in this dress this today (just the style I was looking for). I had to find out it where it was from so I messaged her. Luckily she messaged me back in the middle of my shopping day and I was able to go and pick it up. Pretty convenient I might add with Target being right across from the mall.

Those were my only clothing purchases. I also purchased some stuff for our house. We've been moved in for a month already! Time goes by so fast.

This is for behind the couch.
(Purchased at Kirkland's)

I wasn't sure where I wanted to put this at first. It ended up in the spare restroom.
(Purchased at Garden Ridge)

I love these pretty candle holders but as you can see from the photo of them on carpet they have not found a home yet. I am waiting on hubs to get home so he can hold them up in various locations while I examine. :-)
(Purchased at Kirkland's)

I am also excited to say that I won TaylorCristen's awesome blog giveaway and am totally surprised being that I never ever win anything! I cannot wait to try out the goodies and share with you guys about them.

Oh,oh,oh and my NYX 78 shadow palette came in on Friday.I will also be sharing reviews on that soon so stay tuned!

I hope that you all had a relaxing and safe weekend!

What's in my purse?

2010-05-01T15:58:00.004-05:00

I am home early from work on this pretty Saturday and completely sick thanks to my hubs who gave me this great cold. I've been wanting to do one of these fun purse posts for a while now so finally here it is. My bag is the LV Speedy 30. Hubs originally picked out the size 40 for me but it literally looked like I was carrying luggage so I returned it for the 30. I knew the 25 would be too small and was torn between the 30 and 35...I decided the 35 was still too big and went with this one. SO happy I did. It's the perfect size for me. Even with all this stuff in there it is barely half way full.

here is everything together...

and then split up and zoomed a tad...

(all the makeup in my makeup bag) or at least the makeup and brushes that I carry with me. This changes often. I have a big kit with my main stash so this small bags contents change often...

below is the stuff that stays in or finds it's way to my Dior saddle bag pouch (it's actually a small handbag but the LV swallows it)...

-As you can see I have wayyy too many lip products that I carry with me. I really like the tinted Softlips right now. Try it out! Oh and since it was just my birthday you can see I claimed my Sephora gift. See those three small glosses to the right? All three are nice colors and look good on too!

-We went to the zoo for my birthday, to the far left is the zoo map and our ticket stubs. I love the zoo.

-That paper on the right is my reciept for some items I donated to the disabled veterans thrift store.

-Of course there is my phone, the enV touch. Usually my small camera is in this bag too but at the time this photo was taken it was busy. lol

-Yes, I also have a Hooters wet nap from when hubs and I ate there a few days ago.

-That coupon is for Kashi. It was on my Kashi cereal and hopefully I remember that I have it next time I buy Kashi! I love Kashi :)

An acne wonder product you say?

2010-04-27T16:35:00.003-05:00

There are many great acne products out there that are used for breakouts containing an array of active ingredients (Salicylic, Sulfur and Benzoyl Peroxide being among the popular ones) but did you know Tea Tree oil works too?

When applied as a spot treatment it works as a natural antibacterial disinfectant to kill the bacteria harboring inside that pimple. It reduces the inflammation and ultimately helps our own immune system diminish the breakout. It can even help slow down oil production. For a spot treatment dab it on full strength morning and night. If you are covering a large area and tend to have skin sensitivity I would dilute it down a little with some water or even your favorite skin cream.

Many people develop small bumps after waxing. For the past few years I have been using a lotion containing tea tree oil immediately after waxing clients to prevent these tiny bumps that are so common. For clients that express concern from having these bumps in the past from waxing I recommend for them to get some get some tree oil of their own and apply it for a few days following waxing to prevent the breakouts which are caused by bacteria forming in the newly emptied follicles.

After recommending this amazing product to so many for a spot treatment and for after waxing bump prevention I though I should pass on this awesome and incredibly cost effective, not to mention natural remedy on to my wonderful blog readers.

For so long I have been telling my clients where to buy tea tree oil that it dawned on me that we should carry the stuff at my job. Well guess what? After a quick discussion with my manager we now have some on order for us to retail. I am so happy that I will be able to recommend this product to my clients without having to send them off somewhere else to purchase it. For you all interested in purchasing some, check out your local health stores or pharmacy.

With it being said that Tea Tree oil is a natural antibacterial disinfectant there are many other great uses for it including...
-an antiseptic for burns, insect bites and blisters,
-eczema and fungal infections.
-nail fungus, ring worm/athletes foot
-dandruff
-boils and warts
...and many, many more...

It can even kill some bacterias that even antibiotics sometimes can't kill.

Tea Tree oil to me is one of those wonder products, much like my vinegar obsession that I blogged a few months ago. Although some of you may already know this great secret and already use it, some may not and I suggest giving it a try! Especially if your breakouts have already become immune to all of the other popular acne fighting ingredients out there.

Do you use tea tree oil already? Are you already aware of it's many amazing uses? I would love to hear follow up on those who give it a try.

Vanity on my mind:Survey

2010-04-26T21:30:00.002-05:00

Deconstructed Life participated in this awesome beauty survey on her fab blog and it looked like fun so I thought I would jump on the bandwagon.

SKINCARE

1) How many times do you wash your face daily?

Once, in the evening. I have dry skin.

2) What skin type do you have?

dry

3) What is your current facial wash?

It's called a cleanser :) ....Cetaphil

4) Do you exfoliate?

Yes. With my Pretika <<< I linked my review of it.

5) What brand do you use?
Pretika and Dermalogica MicroThermofoliant or Image Skincare Skin Resurfacing Masque/Scrub

6) What moisturizer do you use?

It changes often. But mostly Image Skincare Hydrating Vital C Cream. I use renova at night.

7) Do you have freckles?

sure do but since I've started using more acid products and Retinols they have diminished some.

8) Do you use eye cream?

yes. Morning and night.

9) Do you or did you have acne prone skin?

no but I can get an occasional breakout here and there.

10) Did you ever have to use Pro-Activ?

Never ever! It is the devil. I have seen so many clients with worsened skin from it. As with any product ingredient, moderation is key however.

MAKE UP

11) What foundation do you use?

GloMinerals Pressed Powder

12) How about concealer?

Almay (looks like a lipstick tube. I use concealer rarely however.

13) Do you know your undertone colour?

yellow

14) What do you think of fake eyelashes?

I like them just not on a regular basis.

15) Did you know you were supposed to change your mascara every 3 months?

yes.

16) What brand of mascara do you use?

It vaires. I try them all. Cheap and more expensive alike.

17) Sephora or Mac?

Both!

18) Do you have a Mac Pro card?

I am getting the MUA one soon.

19) What makeup tools do you use in makeup application?

depends on the day/occasion.

20) Do you use makeup base/primer for the eyes?

I am not crazy about primers but yes I do on occasion. I rely on the fact that "maybe" it is doing something...

21) For the face?

refer above

22) What is your favorite eyeshadow? Colour or shade?

I don't have a favorite but I do tend to like shimmer.

23) Do you use pencil or liquid liner?

Maybelline Unstopable roll up pen and Mac Gel liner.

24) How often do you poke your eyes with an eyeliner pencil?
Never.

25) What do you think of pigment eye shadows?

I love them but they are messy.

26) Do you use mineral makeup?

Glo is a pressed and I like it. I don't really like loose ones such as Bare Minerals.

27) What is your favorite lipstick?
I am digging my new nude one. Sephora Brand.

28) How about lipgloss?
all of them are my favorites. I can't choose.

29) What is your favorite blush to use?

It's a bronzer. Cover Girl TryBlend minerals.

30) Do you buy your makeup on Ebay?

No.

31) Do you like drugstore makeup?

yes.

32) Do you go to CCO's?Cosmetic Company Outlet?

huh?

33) Did you ever consider taking makeup classes?

I have and will take more.

34) Are you clumsy in putting on makeup?

no.

35) Name a makeup crime that you hate?

mascara that does not give length...It may not be a crime but I don't like it.

36) Do you like colourful shades of makeup (lipstick or eyeshadow) or neutral ones?
eyes yes.

37) Which celebrity always has great makeup?

Olsen twins.

38) If you could leave the house using just ONE makeup item, what would you use?

black eyeliner

39) Could you leave the house without any makeup on?

of course. I do sometimes.

40) Do you think you look good even without any makeup on?

I prefer makeup but no I'm not ugly without it...lol

41) In your opinion what is the BEST makeup line?

Mac because of the selection/classes BUT I do not like their bases or powders. They are comedogenic and clog pores.

42) What do you think of makeup?

I love it. It is fun. Like toys are to kids makeup is to women. I so made up that quote myself. Go me!... and no jacking it. K? ;). I kid.

*Note: The images used in this entry do not belong to me and I do not claim them as my own*

Glam Eyeshadow

2010-04-25T23:55:00.004-05:00

Last night I had an awesome night out with co-workers. I always like to try new shadow looks. I actually just ordered a 78 shadow palette so that I can have every color imaginable for future looks I want to attempt and new ideas but that's a later entry. I will review and talk about it once the palette comes in. I don't have a bunch of time because hubs will be home from work soon & will groan about me being on here when he gets home because I have all day to be online supposedly right? In between work and house stuff and wifely chores. lol. Really he just wants to snatch up the computer to play online poker!

Enough babbling, back to the real reason for this post. Usually when I want to try out eye looks You Tube is the first place I go. I am going to be signing up for some Mac Pro classes soon. I have a co-worker who goes and she just loves them. (Heyy Jenn!). I usually don't have a look in mind and am pretty open to trying new things. So I browse. After watching about five videos I finally pick one to attempt. This time the chosen look was inspired by a video by one of favorite beauty vloggers Pixiwoo. If you haven't seen her vids check them out! Here is the one I attempted.

and the result....

as you can see the vlog is a Kim Kardashian inspired look. Very dark and smokey. I decided to mix it up a little and change the colors.

The colors used are..

Rushmetal Pigment by Mac-LOVE this glam shimmer pigment

Revlon Black from a multi shadow kit

Maybelline Unstoppable eyeliner-love this stuff

Urban Decay Skyscraper Mascara.- Not a fan of this.

I am very happy with the way it turned out. I like the lighter color blending into the much darker. We met up at work before the outing and one of my co-workers liked my shadow so I did the same look on her in different colors. I like the versatility of this. Next time I may go for a green and a darker black since this one appears gray. Just be aware that if you replicate this look, blending is key so be sure you have a good blending tool. I found that Q-tips worked great for the application of the darker color and then I used the blending brush.

Alright, Hubs just walked in the door. Night lovelies!

Giveaway Winner!

2010-04-24T11:45:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to announce the winner of the CSN Stores summer sandals giveaway!

To choose the winner I wrote down every entry on a sheet of paper next to a number in the order in which you all signed up, including double entries as two consecutive numbers. Double entries are those who also blogged about my giveaway.

I then went to random.org and used their number generator. The corresponding name is the winner...

MJELLIS you have won! :-)

I know that you will read this soon so just contact me with your address so that I can forward it on to CSN stores on Monday so that your cute sandals can be sent to you! April.lc09@gmail.com

Thanks to all the ladies that applied. I really enjoyed hosting my first giveaway.

Giveaway Reminder & Brozer Talk

2010-04-22T20:33:00.004-05:00

Just a quick reminder to sign up for my summer sandals giveaway a few posts down. It ends on Friday. Results will announced on Saturday.

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With the beginning of spring/summer and getting back on track with weekly spray tans I have a new love for Bronzers. I think that bronzers give a whole different look and a fresh, glowing complexion. I also think they look better on skin with somewhat of a base tan. In the past I've tried bronzer on my pale, untanned skin it just looked odd and un-natural which is why I really only use it during the warmer months that I sunless tan on a more regular basis.

It can sometimes be difficult though because I find that a lot of bronzers are either too dark, too brown, overly orange or overly red. It's hard to find that happy medium.

I already know that I love this Glo Minerals one called "Bronze". I use it pretty often at work on clients and just really like the amount of shimmer as well as the color. Not too orange or red. It gives a sun kissed glow with a good amount of shimmer/glow. This one retails for about $32-$36 and in my opinion it is worth it. This stuff will last a good while.

However, I wanted to find a more budget friendly option that was similar to the Glo Minerals above but with a little less shimmer. So the search began. After two different Walmarts, CVS's and a Sephora I made my discovery at the second Walmart. (Different CVS's & Walmarts have different stock ya know)

It is amazing. If I had to rate it I would give it an A+.

Cover Girl True Blend Minerals in 435. This one had the least amount of orange/red in it and was not abnormally dark. It works perfect for me and my normally pale, spray tanned skin. At work today a co-worker actually told me I looked "awesome and so tan" ... my spray tan is actually due to be re-done and almost worn off. I told her nope, "it's just my awesome new bronzer".

Usually by mid day it looks as if I need a mini powder touch up. When using this, my face looks fresh all day with no touch ups needed. Not sure why but I'm not complaining.

At $6-$8 this stuff is a steal. Especially for the amount of product you get.

Anyone else like bronzers or have a favorite? If you are in the market for one I recommend giving these a try.

Today I turn a quarter of a century old!

2010-04-20T13:03:00.002-05:00

Yep. I turned 25 this morning.

I had to work this morning but only for one quick appointment and I got to see my co-workers who all wished me a Happy Birthday. On my way home from work some up beat Bob Marley was playing and the sun was shining bright. That made me smile.

Hubs got off work today and we are about to head downtown for some Birthday fun....probably to the new magic exhibit at the Science Museum or maybe the zoo. I love both of those places. Then tonight we are meeting with my parents for dinner.

It should be a good day :)

They say you are only as old as you feel right? Why is it that sometimes I still feel ohhh about 22 but then at others I feel like I'm 32ish. lol

Do you feel your age?

OOTD & a super easy Taco Soup Recipe!

2010-04-19T20:16:00.003-05:00

First off, this is my first OOTD. Most of the time I wear a smock to work with some gray or black pants. Nothing too great. Occasionally I don't feel like looking frumpy though so I will put on some normal clothes.

For those who don't know, I am an Esthetician. My job is pretty much awesomeness along with our owner and manager. So with that being said we can wear whatever we would like as long as it is appropriate of course. Today was one of my non smock days. I plan on getting some cute makeup scrubs soon if I could just find some that fit nicely. Maybe I will post a smock OOTD sometime just for fun? My job is far from a business setting but I still go for a professional but fun and appropriate look.

Pants- White House|Black Market

Black Flats- Sears

Shirt- Forgive me, it's older & I have NO idea.

Heart Necklace- F-21

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-Easy Taco Soup Recipe-

Does it look good? Because it is amazing! Not to mention super fast, easy and cheap to make. Less than about seven dollars.

We had a party when I was in school for esthetics and one of my classmates brought this. I was in love.

The recipe originally contains ground beef or ground turkey but since I do not eat meat I changed it.

- 3/4 cups of elbow macaroni, cooked (substitute ground beef/turkey for this if wanted...1lb)

-1 can diced tomatoes

-1 small can of diced green chiles (usually found by the taco making kits)

-1 can of corn

-3/4 can of pinto beans

-1 packet of ranch seasoning

-1 packet of mild taco seasoning

-fiesta blend shredded cheese

Combine all ingredients in a big pot on the stove and bring to a light simmer. Add a half to one can of water if needed. I try to use the juices from the veggies. Top with shredded cheese before serving. Wa-Lah!

My hubs likes to eat it with Saltines and I have a friend who makes corn bread to accompany. Just take my word for it that it is soooo good.

Here are the seasonings I am referring to...

Enjoy!

Giveaway time! Summer Sandals

2010-04-16T22:48:00.004-05:00

I love shoes. I really do.
With the warmer weather and the bright sun lighting up our days comes new summer shoes. I have been going crazy lately sandal shopping. You never can have enough cute shoes right?

The great site http://www.shoesgotsole.com/ has given me the opportunity to give away these cute pair of sandals. They have so many cute shoes on their site it really was hard for me to choose!
These are a $34 Value.

They are by Adi Designs and are black. They are the perfect compliment to a summer wardrobe.

I am so glad that http://www.shoesgotsole.com/ has enabled me to give away this pair of shoes to one lucky blog reader. They carry all different types of women, men and childrens shoes.

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1 entry- (Must be a follower) Leave your e-mail address and shoe size letting me know you would like to enter

2 additional entries! if you mention this giveaway in your blog and link that post in this post's comment section.

1 additional entry if you mention this giveaway in a twitter post and link it so that I can verify.

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Good luck everyone! The giveaway will end on Friday April 23rd at Midnight. The winner will be announced on Saturday the 24th. Be sure to check back to see if you have won.

The winner will be chosen by random.org.

****Discloser: I did not receive any compensation for this post. I was given the opportunity to provide a giveaway for my readers and I took it! ;-)

Shopping Haul

2010-04-14T22:26:00.005-05:00

Today was a short day at work for me so I took the opportunity to run by Forever 21 to look for a cute dress to wear out on Saturday night to my friend Nikki's Birthday festivities. Of course since I was looking for a dress I couldn't find one. It always happens that way.

Instead I came across some cute swimsuits and figured those were needed too being that the birthday festivites begin with a pool party and I also recently booked our annual river trip for July 4th weekend. I really only planned on getting one suit but couldn't resist both of these since they were such a great deal.

You cannot tell from the picture but the first one is actually white and a shimmery navy color. I originally didn't like the colorful one when it was on display but then saw a girl in the fitting room area wearing it and it looked so cute on her. I decided to give it a try and liked it. I really like the way both tops fit.

Being that my dress shopping trip had turned into a summer staple trip why not throw in some black shorts right? You can never have too many summer shorts. These are black.

I've been looking for a pastel purple nail polish color that was isn't too dark and have never tried F-21 polishes before but this color was just what I've been on the hunt for so I picked that up too. At $2.80 it was a steal and actually goes on well with two coats. I'm not worried about lasting results in a polish since they all seem to chip on me no matter what I do or the brand I wear.

I really like it.

So there you have it. My mini Forever 21 haul :) No dress but lots of cute other stuff...

Check back soon. I'm going to be doing a blog giveaway!

Over night hair waves follow up & My t.v appearance!

2010-04-09T18:58:00.001-05:00

Thats right T.V appearance! Actually the local evening news...haha.

The news station called the spa where I work today to do an interview with us on Summer Beauty and Shape-Up. I was one of the two interviewed on our Spray Tans and LipoB weight loss injections!

One of the massage therapist's that I work with was interviewed on our Inch Loss Detox wraps as well.

It was so un-expected and I was talked into it! I think I only said "um" three times. I tried so hard not to!

I even gave a Lipo-B injection to a co-worker on camera. I know how these things work so we shall see tonight how much is actually shown but they were there for a while.

Hopefully they edit it to make me not look like a nerd!

Just had to share with you all! Good thing I did my hair pretty for work today....

Yes, I said pretty! The overnight waves were a success!

When I pulled out the buns it was a bit bouncy and tight, which I expected. I then applied a Paul Brown Diamond Heads shine/smoothing/sealing product that is Similar to BioSilk to tame it a bit. These photos were about 10 minutes after I took out the buns.

It is now almost 7 PM and it still looks great. Of course it fell some throughout the day but I still have the beachy light wave I was going for.

I will be doing this look much more often now. I really recommend this for those with fine hair that won't hold curl at all or anyone wanting an easy style without heat.

No heat hair waves

2010-04-08T22:00:00.004-05:00

I wake up morning after morning and straighten my hair for work. Well, unless I am totally lazy and just throw it up in a pony tail with a headband supporting the rest which I really try not to do.

I've decided I need an easy no heat doo. Yes, I've tryed the big rollers and it looks good but even with that my fine hair falls limp. Sometimes before bed I put my wet hair in a crazy messy bun (just to keep it out of my face) to wake up to a complete dry mess that I then straighten. So why not make an orderly bun and hope for some orderly waves? One can only hope. I searched no heat waves and came across a few You Tube videos that where entirely too long for twirling your hair into two buns. So here is my description and how-to....

(The clip really is not needed but I put it to hold up the falling "loop")

-My hair is just twisted to buns and then secured with hair ties-

In the past my hair has pretty much never held curl or wave. I've expressed that on here before. I know there are tons of ways to go to sleep with your hair a certain way to wake up to beautiful loose waves. I chose this technique because from the few videos I've watched the girls came out with kinky, too tight curl/waves at first and I need that if I want to end up holding any of the wave at all. One of the girls said that it does loosen up after a while so I know it would really loosen with my hair. That way, if they are too tight to begin with then maybe I'll still have something once it falls out a little. Also, I did apply mousse (Garnier XXL) and a thickening gel (Redken) while my hair was still damp.

I then waited for it to be almost dry. I find that if hair has too much moisture when put up before bed that it will still be wet in the morning if put up tight like I am doing tonight so I waited until it was literally almost dry to twist it up. Literally about 90% dry. I'll snap a few photos tomorrow and update soon with the results! Well maybe....unless it looks like a horrible mess of course. I kid. I kid!

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I would also like to thank Ashley over at Awful Beautiful Disarray for this very sweet award that she passed on to me.

Thanks so much! I really appreciate it!

Good night everyone and happy upcoming Friday! Yay. I'm actually off work all weekend and Joe is off on Saturday with me. House work stuff for us and maybe some shopping on Sunday. Anyone have any big weekend plans?

Wood floor tips & A product recc.

2010-04-07T15:16:00.001-05:00

This new homeowner is learning as she goes.

The first portion of this post may not be relevant for a lot of readers but it was something that I found interesting.

As you can see in the prior post from yesterday our new house has hardwoods. I expressed concern with the builder that we had a few minor "chips" but not really "chips"... More like areas where the planks meet each other where a tiny thread of the wood peeled up. Probably not noticeable to anyone but me. None the less it still irked me because they are brand new ya know? I felt they shouldn't have any flaws at this point. So the builder set up a visit with the flooring contractor to come repair our minor wood "peel ups."

As the guy came today for his barely 10 minute visit I see him literally drawing on the flaws and then buffing the area out. So I ask him, " is that a magic marker you are using?" He explained to me that it was in fact a form of a marker but made specifically for hardwoods and that the color is the correct match for our floors. I immediately asked where I could get one of my own for any future flaws. He told me they are sold at many home supply stores like Ace and Home Depot. Now I am obsessed. I have a few small chips on my coffee table and on our bed foot board that I am ready to repair on my own. I figure it would work the same for furniture chips too right? I mean I guess you could just use a brown marker but I just like the idea of it being a perfect match for my floors. They are labeled as a stain.

Thought this might be helpful info for some. Heck, maybe I am the last one to know this and if so forgive me for being naive. lol.

Here is the pen. It is made by Minwax.

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I also wanted to share a new awesome product I am now in love with. I've been meaning to mention it for a while now. We got some samples of this at my work so I gave it a try and am now hooked. Demalogica Extra Rich Faceblock SPF 30.

I have dry skin and am big on sun protection so this stuff is perfect for me. It's super think and hydrating. People with oily skin may not like it though. I would really only recommend it for drier skin and people who don't mind some thickness in a product. It blocks both UVA and UVB rays and contains peptides as well as Vitamins E and C. So really you get the benefit of an excellent emollient moisturizer and the SPF properties.

I am hooked and highly recommend this stuff.

Back In Business!

2010-04-06T18:02:00.003-05:00

We are all moved in! Closed about a week and a half ago. I am now able to get on-line from home and not just at work now that we have the U-Verse Internet hooked up again.

I've been a shopaholic lately. Of course my clothing shopping has been neglected as the house stuff has taken priority for now. We are all settled in but I feel like there is still so much tweaking to do.

I need to find a bookshelf I for the living room. Our poor books and photo albums are the only boxes that are still hanging out in the garage yet to be un-packed. I took that built in book self we had in our apartment for granted and now that have to find the perfect one for the house and it's just not that easy! After we get the bookshelf and more wall decor items in the living room I think it wont look so bare.

We still need to get my pretty chandelier hung in the master and quit procrastinating doing that. I also want to find something perfect (decor wise) to put above the bed. Overall I am happy with the way that room is coming along. I think the chandelier will really compliment the room once it is hung. See those beautiful gray walls? Yeah, we painted them the day we closed before moving anything in. It was way more than I bargained for. Paining is hard y'all!

Here are a few more photos of the house. I am really happy that we have a workout room at home so that hopefully I can get my butt into gear. We also have an empty bedroom that will be the guest bedroom. Furniture/decor for that room is in the near future but I'm really not in any huge rush as of now. My goal is getting the rest of the house how we want it so that then I can focus my time and energy on doing up the guest room. Oh and now Joe has decided that we will be getting a pool table for the garage. I really can't argue though because he reeeealy wants one. lol

The bricks are called Chololate Bayou. I feel like our "Chocolate Bayou" looks a little different than the ones on the model but we were told that is just normal birck variation? Whatever. Either way though we like it. Some of the other "Chocolate Bayou" homes in our neighborhood have a few lighter bricks like ours while others resemble the model with the mainly dark and tan bricks, no lighter ones.

I am so happy and relieved that all the closing is done. I am so ready to get back to normal life. The house building/buying process was so much work and I swear when we closed I was so relieved. I was so tired of insurance hunting, being on the phone with loan officers, builders etc and having to fax/sign huge stacks of documents pretty often. The prize sure was worth it though.

I will be blogging much more often now and cannot wait to get all caught up on my favorite blogs that I like to follow!

We close tomorrow!

2010-03-24T22:38:00.004-05:00

I cannot wait to get all settled into the new house and get back to some normality. Not to mention getting the internet installed again so that I don't have to only get on at work! Fingers crossed it all runs smoothly. It is going to be a busy week.

I swear my back seat looks like a home goods store. I wish I could post all my shopping purchases but I'll just wait for it to all be in the house...

We recently bought our microwave, patio furniture, gazeebo, bar stools and the bedroom (grey) paint. Who knew domestic stuff was so exciting?

In case you are wondering why there has not been any photo updates....wellll....the camera, it went dead finally and the cord is ummm somewhere, in a box. In which box I have no idea? Hopefully I find it soon while unpacking and get that baby charged. I'll update soon!

Tah-Dah!

2010-03-09T16:43:00.004-06:00

Here it is, brick (choclate bayou) and all. The cabinets, tile, fixtures and counter tops are in too. Just waiting on appliances, hardwoods and landscaping. Hopefully some of that is being done as I type.

We were set to close on the 15th but it got pushed back due to the city and meters. I am okay with that though becuase I want them to be able to get it all done correctly and not be in a rush! I have been getting so excited and shopping like crazy!

I couldn't possibly post all my shopping purchases but here is one of my favorites. It will be in our bedroom and I got a great deal on it! This was one of the things I was literally on a mission for. I felt so accomplished when I found it on my lunch break at the Home Depot last week.

If you are not a hobbit...

2010-03-03T10:40:00.004-06:00

Ya like my post title?

What it means is...if you are not a hobbit then yes, you do go out in the sun!

In an appointment a few days ago a I asked a client "do you wear sunscreen on your face?" Her reply, "no, but I don't go out into the sun.".....Ummm, Yes! You do! I didn't actually tell her this the way my brain waves shouted it to her but I did explain that in fact she does "go out into the sun." When she is walking to the car she is in the sun. When she is getting the mail she is in the sun. When she walks from the car to the store or even when she is in a room with windows she is.in.the.sun! All of these situations make skin exposed to UV rays and can cause damage.

I wanted to express this important point. I would hope that everyone would understand this but some just dont.

I recently started using Revova as I have posted here before and have had great results but with the use of this product I discovered even more the importance of a good SPF. I got a light sun spot on my upper cheek (Retinoids make your skin more susceptible to sun damage). This was while using a light SPF and "not" going out in the sun, so to say. That is how easy it is to get sun...even when you try not to. I decided to up my SPF an become even more religious with it.

I am a huge stickler for sun protection because I see damage from the sun almost every day. It wrinkles and dries your skin and it causes spots that no one wants. I used to be a tanner and smartened up. I know young people sometimes want that golden bronze tan but to me it's just not worth it thinking about my future appearance. I now spray tan. With a quality spray tan you can look great and not orange. I used to think they didn't look good because I didn't know any better but after using an awesome spray system and product where I work I absolutelty love spray tanning. If you are a sun worshiper or just don't use sunscreen/sunblock because you don't go outside much, please reconsider. Rant done :)

Bedroom Inspiration

2010-02-22T14:37:00.002-06:00

Can I just say that I am totally excited! Today I ordered our bed linen set. I have been fixated on finding the set I had in my mind for about a week. I finally decided on one and when I went to order it online this morning the size I needed was sold out. I found another one, which I like even more almost immediately and it was on sale! I'ts from JcPenney and about $100 off. Score!

It's actually just the comfortor and the shams. I can buy the extras myself though, no biggie. I'll probably go later on this afternoon actually.

Here is my bedroom inspiration. Well kinda, sorta...maybe not so much. Mine will just be the black, white, grey and lots of glass/silver. With a silver/crystal Chandelier. Nix the red details from this example, we wont have that in ours. Pretty much the only reason I am using this picture is to show that we will have the grey walls with the black/white bed set. lol

One other thing I found in my quest for bed linens was this nice shag rug for our living room. I think the contrast of this rug against dark hardwoods will be nice. I plan to go with an array of tans and various browns for the living room (which is so not like be by the way). I just think with the hardwoods the scheme "fits". This is actually a big rug, the picture just makes it look small.

P.S- Our drywall on the house is all up and spackled. The bricks will go on this week. I keep saying that I am going to post pictures and I really am. It's just the computer here at work doesn't have a spot for my camera memory card to go in. Soon! I really do promise.

Mini Vegas Trip

2010-02-19T19:28:00.001-06:00

My business/fun Vegas trip was a success. I was able to get seven girls trained on the spray tan system. My Boss at the spa and her husband live in Vegas and operate a Salon there as well as the one I work at. They recently purchased the same spray tan system for that salon that we have at ours. I flew out to do the training. I was also able to stay with my best friend who lives in Vegas for the night. I was daring and played black jack for the very first time! I didn't do good but didn't to bad. Won a few hands :) I also rolled the dice in craps for the first time ever as well! My friends boyfriend was betting so we rolled, that didn't go so well. lol. No big winning on my part but at another casino we went to later on in the night called "M" (off the strip and really nice) her boyfriend came out $650 ahead. With all the working and going out I got virtually NO sleep but as my boss said "stay up while you are in Vegas, sleep when ya' get home!)

On other thing about the trip that completelty excited me was that I was able to see the Grand Canyon from the plane! I have been wanting to see it for a while now and Joe has absolutely no interest in going. I was pretty psyched at the surprise I got looking out my window on the plane!

I'm still here!

2010-02-13T11:26:00.000-06:00

I am blogging from work! It's been hectic lately and I just had to do a little check in. Our apartment lease was up last week so instead of going on an outragesous month to month lease or extending it we are at my mother in laws house for approximately the next four weeks until our house is completed. So yes, we moved. Hence me not blogging often (there is no internet where we are currently staying). I thought about getting a wireless card but honestly have had nothing but problems with them in the past so I decided that I could go without for a month and probably get a lot of productive stuff done in the process.

The house is coming along well. The roofing/shingles are on and all the electrical and water pipes are in. Drywall should be next, then bricks. I will try to post photos a.s.a.p.

I was having shopping withdrawls so had to squeeze some mall time in last week. It was just a mini trip but I got two cute shirts and a deal on some awesome new skinny jeans. I will be doing a mini haul and posting pics soon as well.

On Monday I have a LAST minute trip to Vegas scheduled. My boss and her husband own another spa there and will be starting spray tanning at that location as well and they asked me to go and train the staff at that location. Since I love spray tanning and Vegas I was excited. Plus, my best friend lives there and even though it is only a quick two day trip I will have a night to go out with her and have some fun. I am also going to stay with her. So that should be a busy work and fun packed two days.

Last, my husband started a new job! He was sad to leave where he was at but even more excited for this awesome opportunity at the new place. This is much more fine dining and more of what he has a passion for. The restaurant is very well known and has been around for a long time. It is an honor for any employee to be a part of the company. The business actually caught fire during hurricane Ike and has been rebuilt over a year later. He has been working along with everyone there to get everything set up for the re-opening on Fat Tuesday and very much likes it already. I am excited to go on Sunday for the sneek peek VIP night and try the place out. Yes, I know that is Valentines! Being a Chef's wife I am used to not getting that day for us. Restaurants are busy on Valenines ya'll. This year I will celebrate it with my mother in law...eating at the new restaurant :)

I know this was a crazy long post so I hope that I didn't bore anyone cramming about four entries into one. I just wanted to share all of this with you guys and say I'm still here.

More House Progress

2010-02-02T12:44:00.000-06:00

Okay, a quick house entry. I really am trying not to blog every.single.little.house.task that has been completed. Even though I am beyond excited. Buuuuut, I thought this was a big one.

They poured the slab yesterday (in the rain I might add) so I figured they had to let it set or something for a while. Nope. Hubs just did a drive by this morning and the wood is going up as I type. They are on a mission! People don't believe when I say six weeks for permits, six weeks for build time but I guess this is why.

Here is the slab from yesterday and then the progress over the past 24 hours.

Fingers crossed the process continues to run smoothly.

Streap Perfect Review

2010-02-01T16:16:00.001-06:00

I have been meaning to mention the Strap Perfect for a while now but keep forgetting.

While out shopping with my mom I happened to find a really cute racer back shirt but wasn't going to get it because of the dreaded bra issue. Her response was "try that bra strap thing from t.v"

So I did. There is not much of a review and it really isn't an amazing scientifical tool or anything but it does the job. I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting a solution to bra straps and racer back shirts.

It looks like this.

The kit comes with six Strap Perfect pieces, which is great for someone like me who loses everything. (2 clear, 2 tan & 2 black). I gave one of them to my mom since I clearly do not need six.

It's easy to put on while wearing the bra. Just attach on one side in the front and slide to the back, then attach to the other bra strap while in the back. Then just slide it to the desired spot. Wah La!

I didn't really notice any size difference, boost or anything but that could be because I wear my straps up pretty high/tightened to begin with.

Anyone else try the strap perfect or feel it could be good for you? The commercial never really enticed me until I had a need for it. Now I feel the freedom to actually be able to look for cute racer back shirts without having to worry about the bra strap issue.

They started on our house!

2010-01-30T20:51:00.001-06:00

Thats right!

Timing was pretty good. We were quoted 6 weeks for permits and 6 weeks for build time.

On Thursday morning hubs drove by the lot to find this.

It was leveled, had the pipes in and all the framing.

We signed our contract on December 11th. Thurdays date was Jan 28th.. Approximately 6 weeks from signing just like we were quoted. Right on time!

If they are on time with the building process as well it should be ready in 6 weeks. I'm still allowing more time just in case thuough, for weather. We shall see!

Funny how the slabs looks so small!

Wanna see our bricks?

2010-01-22T18:23:00.002-06:00

We were able to make the change on our brick choice for the house! They had not been ordered yet. Woo hoo, thanks to permits taking a while.

This is the new model home and the reason we switched our choice. Funny thing is the brick on this house was one of our top picks at the design center. Once we saw it placed on this house we knew this was the one. We were lucky enough to be able to change our mind, they normally don't allow that since the bricks are usually ordered first. It's also a safer choice considering we had no idea what the one we originally picked would look like on an actual house (just on swatches). Our fear after choosing the original was that it could have looked blah.

Here is the final pick...

This isnt our floor plan or anything, just an example of the chosen brick. It is called "Chocolate Bayou" by Acme Brick.

We also chose to go with this exact trim but not the stained garage door. This one looks horrible to me in person, Ours will be the same tan looking color as the trim. We also will not have the white cut out above our windows.

Spring Fashion Trends

2010-01-21T19:26:00.005-06:00

With the pretty weather Houston had today I was motivated to get my spray tan on and take a look into some spring fashion. It was bright outside and almost 80 degrees!

Here are a few of the forecasted trends I am excited about and others that made me think "ummmm"

The trend that pretty much excited me the most is shorts. Not just plain shorts but more dressed up...cute variations from sailor style and cuffed to high waist, which I love. Don't give me a side eye and call me a hoochie. lol. I guess it's about time to get back on the eliptical to prepare for these!

I was also glad to see that gray will be popular this spring along with some other colors that I really like sticking around (tans, champagne & pale pinks)

One trend that was seen at fashion week that I will not be caught wearing is these stylin' square sunglasses. I don't care if everyone gets a pair and they are the coolest thing ever. I think they are hideous. They were said to possibly catch on like big round sunglasses did in the past. Riiiiight, I will venture to say I doubt that :-x

I was glad to read that my beloved ruffles and mesh/lacy/sheer accented fabrics will be sticking around for a while. I have grown to love these fabric trends this season.

and of course peep too boots. Not happening for me...

Funky busy/floral prints are almost guaranteed to be big as well as yellows and oranges. Lavender was also noted to be popular for the spring season. I am loving the mixture of calm neutral tones as well as bright busy prints.

Above all I am just excited to shop for some cute spring/summer clothes. I really do prefer spring/summer fashions to fall/winter.

Pretika!

2010-01-20T11:11:00.003-06:00

With all the popularity of the Clarisonic I almost brought myself to buy one. I just couldn't justify spending $150-$200 for a spinning brush used for polishing/exfoliating my face.

This could just be me but I hate paying full price for skincare. I'm just not used to it! With my license I am able to get most of the products I use at a lower cost and i'm spoiled. That being said, I wanted the raved about technology but at a lower cost alternative.

Sooo being the internet nerd that I am, I went on an online review hunt. After reading about "Clarisonic like" tools from Sally's, Walmart and various other places I made my decison on the Pretika. The reviews of this made it seem much better than the others that I had researched. I also really liked the fact that the battery is rechargable unlike some of the others.

It does have sonic power and costs about $50 depending on where it is purchased (I found it at Bed Bath and Beyond. I know Amazon sells it as well as Target Online for anyone interested). I've never beforw tried Clarisonic so I really cannot compare. However, I am really happy with it after my almost one month of Pretika use. I did read that the brush bristles arent as soft as the Clarisonic. This may be a downside if you have really sensitive skin but for me it has caused no problems.

It makes my face feel clean and gives a nice exfoliation. I use it daily in conjuction with a good skincare routine along with Renova (detailed review of this a couple of posts ago). I will say that I do notice a difference now if I've forgotten to use it for a day or two. My skin doesn't feel as smooth, doesn't seem as though it is really clean and my makeup doesn't go on as flawless. Being in the beginning stages of Renova use I still get flakes and Pretika has been a dream at sloughing them off. The tool looks and feels of good quality. It doesn't have as many rotations as the Clarisonic but it is comparable in number, not like the lower number in some of the other tools of this nature. I almost considered purchasing this and upgrading if I liked it but now I plan to just stick with what I have.

So for those looking for a good quality alternative I say give Pretika a go.

House design choices

2010-01-16T12:56:00.003-06:00

We went to the design center a few weeks ago to pick out all the stuff for the house and somehow I forgot to share all the choices on my blog. So here they are...The dark colored panel is the color our maple capibets will be. It is a dark dark brown. The wood slab is the color/finish our hardwoods will be in the living room area.

The brick pictured could possibly be changed if it has not already been ordered yet. We found another color we really like and the fact that we were actually able to see it on a model home and not just a swatch made it a more stable choice. If they are not able to change it though it's no biggie.

We canno't wait for the permits to be completed and the construction started!

BadGal Lash by Benefit & My Renova use

2010-01-14T19:06:00.002-06:00

Bad Gal Lash...Anyone love this stuff? I bought it a while back and returned it. Then it came in my Sephora sampler so I do have the small one now.

I have been seeing quite a few people vouch for this lately and I just don't get it.

What have I done wrong? Why do I not love it like everyone else does?

I really did try to like it...

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I have also been meaning to mention Renova which I've recently begun to use. I wanted to wait a while until my skin was used to it. It has now been about 7 weeks since I started it. I am using the lower strength as of now and plan to eventually work my way up to the .05% on the next tube.

With this or any other Retin A product they say that it could take up to 6 months to see the full results. I am just now starting to notice some positive difference... nothing drastic yet but I do see it coming. (fine lines around mouth fading and skin is becoming softer, also less "random" breakouts)

It takes a while for the skin to acclimate to tretinoin. At first it can peel and become irritated. I try to use this daily (every evening) becuase I am wanting to get totally acclimated in the fastest amount of time possible. I guess you could say I want to dive right in. It is working though. At first I peeled like crazy. I still do peel sometimes. Usually, it happens if I take a night off from it and then use it the next, I will have peeling that next moring after continuing the product. My Petika does help to rid me of some of the flakes, which is great.

I use the more emollient Renova vs. the Retin A is because I have dry skin and wanted to avoid drying it out even more.If you are someone with oily skin Retin A would probably work which has several generic formulations sometimes covered by insurance.

My reasoning for using this is maintenance. I tanned for many years and no longer do. I am all for SPF protection and wanting to repair the damage done. I use it to combat and fight fine lines, pigmentation and ageing overall as well as making my skintone even and smooth. The prevention of minor breakouts is also a nice plus.

It has been said that some don't notice results until after six months of using this product. I am glad to have had some results already and can only hope that it continues to progress. Here is some good information on tretinoin contaning products for anyone interested. FYI: It is a prescription product.

Bring on the fun

2010-01-07T16:26:00.006-06:00

Friday! Well, not really. It's actually Thursday but it's my Friday. That's right, I am off work until Monday. Tonight we are going to a dinner party/get together at a friends house to watch the Championship between our own UT and Alabama. I say watch because I really do not like football, sports in general really. *Gasp*.

I've been told that it's American to watch football or at least pretend to like it but that's just not me. I don't jump on bandwagons or try to be something I am not. If you like something, more power to ya. If not that's okay too right? So with that being said, I am excited to go tonight and enjoy dinner, wine and the company of good friends. I will say thought that there was one time in my life that I did watch a football game and actually enjoyed it. It was back in hmmmm 98 or 99?? The Florida/Florida State game. This is only because I am a born Gator, yep thats right. From birth it was pre-determined. Imagine everyones surprise when we moved to Texas and I in fact decided on Cosmetology...lol. But yeah, I will admit that game was a teeny bit exciting :-o Don't know what got into me that day. Probably all the hype and excitement of the score being so close.

Tomorrow and Saturday evening we will be going out to celebrate the birthdays of two of our close friends. Yay for dress up opportunites. Happy Birthday Britt & Chris!!

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I know this is completely irrelevant to this post but I just wanted to touch on this subject. You all know I am big on my dogs. I am also big on their health. I've heard way too many people rave about the good foods they feed their dogs (Purina, Eukanuba, Science Diet etc.)

If you have not already please check out dogfoodanalysis.com.

This site rates different foods and the quality of the ingredients. (1 star being horrible, 6 being great) Too many people think that just because the commercial says it's good, it isn't cheap or that it's sold in the pet store that the food is good when that isn't the case at all.

Many well known dog & cat foods are made of crappy ingredients, fillers and almost inedible quality meats with little to no meat or nutrition. So bad to the point where there isn't much nourishment coming from some of these foods.

A huge part of your pets health is diet. I want my girls to live long healthy lives and do anything in my power to achieve that. Once upon a time even I thought that Science Diet and Eukanuba were good because the vet said they were. Some vets have deals with these companies. Sad but true that they may not promote the best only for their own gain :-/ It is up to us to do our homework to keep our pets healthy. Not trying to preach but to educate.

Hope everyone has a great Friday and Weekend! Oh yeah, beware of that "arctic blast" here in Texas. The news seems to think it's going to be some kind of disaster! lol. Ohhhhh the media.

Wedding fun & some product reviews.

2009-12-28T01:15:00.003-06:00

Checking in! I've been super busy lately with the holidays and all. Christmas was great. I am sad it came and went but somewhat relieved the stress of Christmas shopping is out of the way and we can focus on house stuff now.

Last weekend we attended a wedding at the gorgeous Co-Cathedral downtown and the Gallery. Congrats Aldo and Veronica! Here are some photos from the wedding. We had a great time.

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In my stocking among with other fun stuff I got this Sallly Hansen polish pen. Not something I would ever choose to buy on my own but I'm so glad I got it. After trying it I am in love.

Out of curiosity I opened it up in the car since it happened to be in my purse. I clicked the bottom like a pen a few times...one too many times. The color began to come out with no where to go so I quickly polished all 5 fingers on one hand in about 30 seconds to use what was on the brush. It went on so easily/even and dried super quick. I was an immediate fan. It did wear off a little quick since I didn't use a base OR top coat but I've since done that and am really happy with it. This is a must try. My only worry is that after a while the brush could harden??

Another product that I had in my stocking I am pleasantly surprised with is the Lash Stiletto Mascara by Maybelline.

The reviews of this stuff on Makeup Alley are so-so but I decided to give it a go and actually liked it. It does not flake off and actually looks better than the other Urban Decay mascara that I have (I will be reviewing the complete Sephora set in a post as soon as I have the chance to use all of them). It gives some thickness, did not clump for me and gave super lenght. I would say if you want lots of thickness this is not the one for you but if you like length try this out.

There are my two "try me's" that I wanted to let you ladies know about. I will be reviewing other goodies soon.