I heart smelling good!

One of the things that make me feel good and pretty is knowing that I smell good. I usually have at least five different fragrances that I alternate between since I wear perfume EVERYDAY. Even if I am just going grocery shopping I will put some perfume on. Roller balls are my absolute favorite. Their portable and small enough to throw in your makeup bag.

Top of my "favorites" list is still "LUV" by Sharon Bolton Scents: "An intoxicating, ultimately feminine scent of rare pink gardenia, lush Hawaiian white flowers, and a hint of creamy vanilla with a delicate whisper of white musk." I don't know if I will ever find a fragrance that I love more. Although I do need to try out "Dream" from her line...it sounds divine: "A heady concoction of fresh bergamot, white freesia, and mimosa with accords of amber, sandalwood and exotic musk. That's what dreams are made of!"

For mother's day the kids took a trip to Sephora and got me the Juicy Couture roller ball fragrance and the Nanette Lepore roller ball fragrance. I couldn't be happier. I love them both!

The Juicy Couture fragrance notes: Watermelon, Mandarin, Pink Passion Fruit, Marigold, Green Apple, Water Hyacinth, Crushed Leaves, Tuberose Absolute, Wild Rose, Princess Lily, Tuberose, Caramel Créme Brule, Vanilla, Precious Woods, Patchouli.
The Nanette Lepore fragrance notes: Moonstone Rose, White Peach, White Cranberry Juices, Magenta Nectar, Black Currant, Orange Jasmine, Persian Lime Juice, Velvet Violet, Amber, Indian Sandalwood
I cannot forget to mention the other two fragrances taking residence in my purse: Alfred Sung "Always" and "Pretty" by Elizabeth Arden. These both are classic smelling fragrances and smell sooooo good and are very lightweight. They have floral, romantic, sweet notes. Keepers for my "classics" collection.
These days I am finding that I have more roller ball fragrances in my purse then lip gloss! So funny. At least I always smell delightful...even if I am just going to the grocery store.

Do yourself a favor and explore all of these wonderful fragrances. Who says you can't have a different perfume for everyday of the week?

Seriously?!

I can't believe how long it has been since my last post. I have had a stack of intentions and so many products that I have been using that I want to talk about but this grad program is kicking my butt! I don't even know what "free time" is anymore. So now that I am on the total verge of burn out and have four chapter reviews due, a power point presentation due, an essay, and classroom observation due, I have decided to blow it off for a few minutes and write about some products that I have been using lately and am really enjoying!

Where do I begin….okay…it's gotta be about eyebrows today. Since I am short on time but still like to look somewhat put together every day I like to focus on eyes. A couple of weeks ago I went to work without makeup on (which I usually always wear…especially lots of eyeliner since I love smokey eyes) and the kids were like, "Mrs. Fuehrer, are you okay? You aren't wearing any makeup!" Little did they know, I did have mascara and lip gloss on…just no eyeliner! For crying out loud, I don't want to not look like I'm not feeling well just because I don't have a smokey look going on! What do fifth graders know anyway?! It still got me thinking and I decided to show those fifth graders that I'm no one trick pony and I can wear many different looks! So, I have been exposing my new more natural looking eyes lately. I can still look decent and made up with just a few key products!

I needed to clean my eyebrows up. I've been very loyal to Angel at the BeneFit Cosmetics Brow Bar at the Promenade mall in Temecula but I couldn't resist going to the new kiosk that opened up that does eyebrow threading. My sister has done it many times and swears by it. I had to give it a try! So I went, and it was a pretty interesting experience. I think getting my eyebrows waxed is faster and less painful but I have to admit that the threading technique gave me a fantastic shape and really clean and defined lines. I liked it. I've gone back twice now but I'm starting to miss the BeneFit Brow Bar. I'll probably go there next time my brows need some work. Anyway, once your eyebrows are cleaned up and shaped nicely it is easy to maintain and define a beautiful look. I do this by staying loyal to some of my favorite products by Anastasia.

Anastasia has come out with a very clever product that is a 2-n-1. It's an eyebrow pencil on one end and the most fabulous eyebrow gel I have ever used one the other end. So convenient! I love when things are easy, simple, and multipurpose. Instead of having a zillion things in your makeup bag this is an easy way of having two essential products in one! Thank you so much! That's not all that I am happy to talk about from Anastasia….there is also a brand new mascara that is the bomb! My lashes look longer, fuller, and very black! I love that this mascara doesn't cause all my lashes to clump together in a sticky heap. Instead my lashes stay separated and volumized. I also like the fact that when I get watery eyes or remove this mascara my eyeballs don't sting. I hate when that happens!

All I have to say is when it comes to brows and lashes…Anastasia has got it right! There hasn't been a product yet that I haven't thoroughly enjoyed from her company. I have a friend that used to get her brows done by Anastasia herself way back in the day. She is always so impressed when I talk about these amazing products and has to mention how much she enjoyed getting her brows done by her in a little tiny hole-in-the-wall place before Anastasia became the eyebrow guru she is known for today. I love stories like that.

smooth, glowing, youthful skin...

What's up? Time flies when working, school, kids, sports, etc...seem to take over your life! All is good here on the home front. I am in my eighth week of grad school and coming up to the end of my very first term. It has been a lot of work but very informative in many ways. I am looking forward to getting my special education credential and getting out there with the kids. Once all the school stuff is done I feel I will be very well prepared and ready to teach some kids!

So, last night I was in class and I was having trouble concentrating because of the email that I had received earlier about the grand opening of Sephora in our very own Promenade mall here in Temecula, CA. I am so excited. If I had more time on my hands I would totally want to get a part time job there just to be in the mist of all the glorious products. I had made a mention out loud about how excited I was that Sephora was opening up this week at our mall. And to my surprise a really beautiful classmate of mine (whose makeup always looks good so I assumed she knew a thing or two about cosmetics and of course Sephora) asked, "what's Sephora?" I gasped out loud in disbelief! After I got over my shock of the question we got into a conversation about makeup, of course.

Lately, my conversations surrounding cosmetics has covered the topic of mineral makeup. I haven't always been totally impressed with it. The products I tried never wore well through out the day either making my skin feel shiny or the product would kind of sink into my pores...and that's with wearing a good primer underneath too. Anyway, a couple of months ago I was introduced to more of the Intervene line and also Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 20 by Elizabeth Arden. Right away I incorporated the new Intervene products into my routine. A night time stress recovery moisturizer that makes my face feel like silk and a time fighting radiance serum that glides on so smooth and makes the surface of my skin so soft that I find my self touching my face with the back of my hand just to feel the smoothness. If you haven't tried the Intervene line yet you are really missing out. These products seem to be ahead of there time. Leaving my skin soft, smooth, hydrated, and youthful.

With that foundation of skincare I expect my foundation to look good. Most of the time I just wear a tinted moisturizer and primer but on the days that I am working I feel like I need just a little bit more coverage. I decided to give Elizabeth Arden's mineral foundation with a SPF 20 (BONUS!) a go one morning. I was intrigued by the packaging first of all. You actually grind off the product you will be using by twisting the top part of the compact. I love that and it feels like you are getting a fresh supply every time. Gold star for packaging! Next, I grabbed by Kubuki brush and started buffing on the powder when immediately I had to lean in closer to the mirror. Were my eyes deceiving me or was my skin looking absolutely flawless with such a light layer of mineral powder? I compared my left side of my face where I applied the foundation to the right side of my face where I had none. I was truly shocked and amazed. I've never seen such a difference with hardly any product on. My skin tone was totally even and you wouldn't even be able to tell that I had any makeup on! Kudos! I love this stuff. I wore the product and throughout the day I checked in the mirror periodically to see if I was getting shiny yet or if the foundation wore away or separated. I'm happy to say the foundation was long wearing. I touched up with some sheer powder in the afternoon and that was it.

I can finally say that I believe in mineral foundation. Thank you, Elizabeth Arden for making such a superior product!

my lipstick revival

I feel guilty. I have turned my attention away from what once was an obsession of mine....LIPSTICK. My obsession started in high school. I religiously wore dark berry colored lipsticks in which every morning I would come out of the bathroom and my mother would say, "blot your lips, honey. you don't want to look like you got smacked in the mouth." I laugh now but back then it was so irritating hearing that every morning. I liked my dark lips against my fair skin and big brown eyes. That was the point. I swear, hearing my mom tell me to "blot my lips" everyday will haunt me forever. Even as a grown woman (and being a makeup artist) I still fear that my lipstick is too dark and I give an extra blot just to make sure I don't look like I was "smacked in the mouth!"

So I think once I became a mommy, eleven years ago, I kind of put my dark lipsticks away and started to opt for lighter lip glosses. Slowly a transition was made and before I knew it, I would buy lipsticks that I was attracted to but then kind of put them in the drawer and forget about them. "This is crazy!" I thought to myself. I decided to put my lip glosses on standby and bring lipstick back!

The holidays were a perfect time for me to do this. I like doing "holiday makeup" and nothing goes better than rich berry hues, reds, and warm browns. Even on the days where my eyes were too dramatic (in my opinion) to sport a bold lip too, I opted for a classic nude lipstick.
My foolproof method for applying stay proof lipstick is very simple. I make sure, first of all, that my lips are well conditioned. I personally love rosebud salve to provide a perfect well conditioned lips. Next I like to prime my lips. My favorite product to use is Urban Decay's eyeshadow potion. I know it's for the eyes but I absolutely love it on the lips. Not only does the product provide the most perfect foundation but it also nudes out the lips giving a perfect canvas for any color lipstick I chose to wear. Now I was ready to put on whatever lipstick I would showcase that day!

These have been my choice favorites...

Nars: Roman Holiday...it's a pretty pink that is sweet and innocent.

Clinique: Black Honey...this might be borderline lip gloss but it is a gorgeous dark warm wine colored glossy stain. Oldie but goodie.

MAC cosmetics: "O"...this lipstick has multi colors depending on the color lip liner you wear. It could go red, brown, or burgundy--so awesome! Also, Rocker, makes a great sparkly red lipstick!

Elizabeth Arden: Ruby Pearl....one of the most amazing red lipsticks I have ever had! Absolutely gorgeous. I wore this one often along with another red, Poppy Cream--a totally classic red.

Urban Decay: Midnight Cowboy...this is one of their newest shades. I actually loved this lipstick. It lasted a long time but it was shimmery and emollient like a lip gloss. Best of both worlds. It's a great neutral everyday shade.

Chanel: Vamp...a classic. A gorgeous ultra dark plum-y shade. This shade makes me feel dark and sultry. Seriously, give it a try and see what kind of attitude you take on!

I found the following picture here: blog.modernmechanix.com

So crazy! Will we be so shocked in the future when we find the "vintage" pics of our eyebrow stencils? Food for thought....

Win! Win! Heavy Metal and 24/7

I wear many hats...and by "hats" I don't mean those things you put on your head. I mean that I fulfill many roles such as wife, mother, sister, daughter, dedicated friend, and student, and I get paid for the roles of substitute teacher, makeup artist, and nutritional cleansing advisor. You might wonder why I am telling you this and what does this have to do with either makeup, skincare, or fragrances. Well, depending on the role I am playing I get to focus on different types of makeup, different colors, and different application techniques. Ahhhhh...now you're following where I'm going!

Basically when I'm not in the classroom or in a traditional setting where I have to behave somewhat modestly and appropriately I choose to have a lot of fun with bold looks with my makeup. Sometimes I love to do a traditional look and maybe jazz it up with a subtle stroke of sparkly glitter on top of my eyeliner or a vibrant punch of colorful fuchsia gloss in the center of my lips. Other times I enjoy being totally bold and colorful with blues and purples and greens or a mixture of different bright colors on my eyes. It's artistic expression and freedom and it keeps me feeling young and spunky!

Urban Decay has been a long time favorite choice of products for me. The Heavy Metal glitter eyeliner from Urban Decay has been an absolute favorite for me. The colors are bright and bold or chic and dazzling and the actual product is high in quality. The gel based liner goes on very easy and dries quickly to a stays-put won't flake off product....and it lasts all day--or night! I've been wearing glitter in or on my makeup for the past fifteen years and will probably die with some time of sparkle on my body. These Heavy Metal liners have never let me down but instead keep on impressing me especially with the latest launch of amazing colors in StageDive (bright green), CatFight (hot pink), Groupie (light pink), and Midnight Cowboy (gold). YEA!!!

If you are really experimental and like to change things up from time to time try layering these Heavy Metal liners over top Urban Decay's 24/7 glide on EyeLiner! This is what I love to do. You can create so many combinations of colors from being subtly sparkly to bold and glittery. The latest colors inspired by the beautiful peacock to join the 24/7 EyeLiner family are: FlipSide (a beautiful shimmery teal blue), UnderGround (a metallic taupe), Grafati (an awesome bright green), and Ransom (a killer purple). These eyeliners on their own STAY PUT! They go on smoothly and dry to a smudge proof and waterproof amazingly long lasting eyeliner. Then, if you are like me, and LOVE to add extra pizazz you can really kick it up a notch with layering with those Heavy Metal glitters. It makes an amazing duo!

These product are one way I can either kick it up a notch when doing my makeup or add a touch of fun to an everyday look. Eyeliner is only one medium that I use. Check back soon and read about the magical cream eyeshadows, the wide range of lipsticks I love to use, and other key products to sparkle and shine and turn ordinary routine makeup to extraordinary!

The FIRST Highlighting Brow Kit to hit the market!!!

Happy New Year my friends! There's nothing like starting the new year with NEW product! It makes me giddy! Especially when I get to introduce the newest most cutting edge product on the market. This time the kudos goes to: ANASTASIA of Beverly Hills. They have revolutionized the market with their brand new Highlighting Brow Kit which is the FIRST baked brow product to hit the market!

I've been testing it out for you and of course it's AMAZING! There is a highlighter trio that is shimmery and natural and also a trio of brow shades so you can mix and match your perfect brow shade. The shadows can be used as is or if you dampen your brush a little you will kick up the effects for a bolder look. Very cool. I love multi-functional products! I also used the dark "brow" shades with a dampened flat angled brush and used the product as an eyeliner. It stayed on and looked natural and flawless all day. I think the 2009 brides are going to go crazy for this product. It's perfect for your wedding day and as a kit to take with you on your honeymoon!

Thanks Anastasia for this multi-dynamic product. The quality is amazing and is priced just right....only $32. You can go out and get yours on January 29th at Sephora! Don't wait. I'm sure this will be one of those products that will be hard to keep in stock.

Simple Scents

Happy Holidays! Things are definitely different this season then any that I can remember. We are experiencing a lot of changes in our economy, government, and work which, of course, impacts our personal lives. I've noticed the stress level rise all around me and I have decided to take a different approach...an attitude of gratitude. There is always something in our lives that we can be grateful for. It does not always have to be the big materialistic things sometimes it's the simple things in life. It's a gesture of love or a simple appreciation for the beauty in nature that surrounds us.

Personally, I choose to see the glass half full. I just recently lost my father and although it makes me tremendously sad that I don't have the opportunity to hold his hand and tell him I love him I can look back at his long life and see how he chose to live a humble life where family and hard work was where the heart is. He worked hard and his family came first. He enjoyed gardening, hunting, and working on his cars. He kept himself well groomed and those were his simple pleasures.

It got me thinking about my simple pleasures. I also love my family and friends and I appreciate the gift of time. As far as personal indulgences go I LOVE coffee, I LOVE burning candles and sitting by a nice fire and I LOVE to smell good! It makes me laugh as I write it down. I know it's okay to enjoy these things. I also am thankful that I have a humble blog that I can share my opinions and talk about the pretty things that bring me joy!

I've been wearing perfume since I was about twelve years old. Do you remember, Love's Baby Soft...lol. I eventually graduated to a more sophisticated scent...liz claiborne...lol again. Next was Sunflowers by Elizabeth Arden and by the time I was a senior in high school my choice fragrance was Obsession by Calvin Klein (a pretty sophisticated scent for a 17-18 year old young lady--don't you think?).

Throughout the years I just really found an appreciation for different types of perfume and how these different scents provoked different feelings in me.

Some made me feel sweet and innocent for example Nanette Lepore and Thymes Kimono Rose.

Others made me feel a bit playful and flirtatious--for example Benefit's Maybe Baby and Issey Miyake.

I feel sophisticated and "grown up" when I wear Badgley Mischka Fleurs de Nuit.

I have a couple of "everyday" scents that I really enjoy too...most recently the Harajuku Lovers "G" was given to me as a birthday gift--Thanks, Kristie--you are a doll! It smells like "vacation" to me and I've been wearing it often (I would love a real vacation!).

I even have a "holiday" scent now--which reminds me of Christmas. Red Door Shimmer is one that is available now for the holiday season and it's a good one! It's sultry and playful and it makes me feel warm and cuddly.

One thing that hasn't changed for two years is my favorite perfume oil of all: Sharon Bolton's Luv. I wear it all the time and I am literally addicted to this fragrance. I feel like this fragrance provokes all of the above depending on my mood. It makes me feel happy everytime I put it on my wrists and behind my ears. Mmmmmmm!

As I mentioned above...it's the simple things in life. As you are out and about Christmas shopping this year you might want to consider giving the gift of fragrance to your loved one. You would be amazed at how just smelling good makes you feel good. Wouldn't that be a sweet gift in light of all the "drama" of life?

M LAB

Very rarely do I come across a product where I literally see amazing results after only one application. To tell you the truth, I usually test a product out for a minimum of 4-6 weeks before I review it and usually in that time...I test it out on other people and get their feedback too. Things have been totally different with M LAB.




I tested the Body Treatment Cream one night before bed. I applied the product to my feet, legs, and arms (paying extra attention to my elbows and feet since they are extra dry). It instantly absorbed into my skin leaving a very silky smooth finish and the cream had a light and fresh scent to it. Nothing to overpowering to climb into bed with. I was "happy" with the product and result so far. Never did I imagine that I was going to wake up in the morning and have the softest, smoothest, most hydrated skin I have ever experienced without paying a fortune at the spa.





I immediately made my husband feel my skin to see if he noticed how soft it was....he did...! I did some research online to find out how and why my skin felt so incredibly soft. This is what the website: http://www.mlabonline.com/ says about the body treatment cream:

"a fusion of peptides, exfoliants and hydrators help
to promote collagen and
elastin production, smooth and brighten skin tone,
and provide long lasting
moisturization"

The product totally lives up to the expectations of the description. How delightful! True advertising! It has become routine for me to put extra body cream on my elbows every morning and night because of how dry my skin is there. I hate the feel of rough, dry skin. I am elated that I have found a product that is so rich in moisturizer that not only do I no longer have to lather my body twice a day with body cream but the last time I used M LAB body treatment cream was two days ago and my skin (including my feet and elbows) is still silky soft.


M LAB offers a whole range of skincare products. I definitely need to try out this entire line. I have a sneaky suspicion that I would not be disappointed and possibly look years younger! Everybody needs to check out this line. It receives my highest recommendation and I can't wait to try the other products. Let me know what you think once you try this line out!

BLUSH

I can't get enough of the new reality show, "BLUSH"

It's awesome! Everybody who really knows me knows that my secret indulgence isn't chocolate but instead it's reality TV. And when you mix reality TV with one of my passions-- makeup....there isn't anything better!

These makeup artist are really talented and pretty entertaining. I have been "doing" makeup forever and I love that the creativity factor is never ending. I am so inspired by what other people do, nature...in general, and the idea that thinking out of the box but still being simplistic is a sure shot at being successful.

So to all my fellow makeup artists, cosmetic, skincare, and fragrance lovers, and those of you who just appreciate creativity for what it is: keep being inspired, enjoy a fun and exciting reality television show, and never stop believing in the small random acts of kindness that keep us optimistic and happy. I truly believe that "cosmetics," in every sense of the word, can bring joy. I've experienced it in my own life. I have seen women come out of their shell as they sit in my director's chair during the process of their makeup application. I have seen body language change, confidence emerge, and a flame that is lit in their spirits. Makeup artists are not just finding your perfect red lipstick or the right formula of foundation we are encouraging, giving hope and raising confidence. So finally, a reality TV show that showcases the artistic ability and human spirit behind a great makeup artist. I'm so proud!!!

An answer to our Anti-Aging body prayers!

Although we are officially in the fall season we are still having summer weather here in Southern California. It’s crazy! The temperatures have been well into the nineties and we are only a few days away from Halloween! Honestly, it’s time to cool down…Not only because I love the fall time weather, but also my family and I are constantly outside in this hot weather due to my kids being involved in softball and baseball. We have practices and games and I am out in that hot sun exposing my precious fair skin to more sun then I am really comfortable with. I am adamant about wearing sunscreen but I needed an extra barrier of protection and restoration for my delicate, precious, skin and my prayers were answered when I was lucky enough to be able to test out Elizabeth Arden’s Prevage Body Total Transforming Anti-Aging Moisturizer.
It’s got the amazing ingredient blend known as, idebenone, a super powerful antioxidant and a tripeptide blend which has proven anti-aging benefits. Just as we all know, sun is very damaging to our skin causing sun spots, wrinkles, and dry, saggy skin. But also we face nuisances like stretch marks, scars, and dimpled skin…but now there is a helpful solution: Preavage Body. I’ve been using the product everyday for the last four weeks mainly on my arms, décolleté, and chest (where I have had the most sun exposure) and my results are definitely visible. My skin feels and looks smoother and firmer. I am so thankful! I was never doubtful that this product would deliver. I’ve been using Prevage Anti-Aging Night Cream for my face for quite a while and I still totally LOVE it.


If you haven’t tried this line yet, you really owe it to yourself to check it out. I promise… it is phenomenal! Check it out at www.elizabetharden.com or go to your local department store to get a hands on experience and then let me know what you think!

BeneFit Cosmetics Brow Bar Fun

As usual, my life is always a complete whirlwind. I’m not complaining. I really love being busy. I love having my kids involved with sports activities (although it is 5-6 days a week). I enjoy volunteering at the kids school. I appreciate any work I can get these days (“work” coming mostly in the form of substitute teaching). But with all that said, I REALLY enjoy a stolen moment to pamper myself and do something spontaneous and girly.

Just last week I had the opportunity to steal a few hours away from doing housework and other random responsibilities and visit BeneFit’s Brow Bar at our local Macy’s. It opened up approximately six weeks ago and I couldn’t be happier. Once upon a time I too worked for BeneFit Cosmetics and I had always wanted to experience the BeneFit Brow Bar (which at the time the closest one was in San Francisco…I think). So my friend, Kristie, and I decided to give our brows a BeneFit makeover. We were so incredibly happy with Angel, the girl who did our brows. She was so attentive to detail, sweet, and highly skilled at her line of work. Right then and there I vowed I would ONLY let Angel touch my brows. She did a fantastic job. I thought I always had fairly decent brows but she found a way to take them to a whole new level. Your eyebrows can be so expressive and a perfect way to look “complete” without having to add a whole lot of makeup. Sorry….I got a little bit off track….So as I stole a few precious hours for myself I called my friend, Barbara, to be my partner in crime. I stole her away from her responsibilities and introduced her to Angel.

While we were at the BeneFit counter my friend, Barbara was treated to a mini makeover and I couldn’t get over the results. She looked so subtly beautiful. “Oh yeah!” I thought to myself, “this was totally what I loved about this line.” Simple, quick, and radiant are the results achieved when applying a few basic “fix-its” from the BeneFit line and best part is it only takes like three minutes! Perfect for a last minute fix up when you are running short on time, get a last minute call, or quite frankly…can’t stand to spend any longer than 5 minutes doing your makeup! Check out these products:

That Gal, a luminous primer (I definitely need to start wearing this everyday)!

You Rebel, a tinted moisturizer that perfectly evens out your skin tone while moisturizing and protecting.


BeneTint, a liquid stain that gives you perfectly rosey cheeks (and can also be used to stain your lips too). Next time you’re at a BeneFit counter ask one of the artist what BeneTint is originally infamous for….you’ll get a chuckle out of it!

I have seriously broke out my “That Gal” primer and “BeneTint” stain from cosmetic hibernation from my kit and have worn these products everyday since! By the way, when applying BeneTint, Angel showed us that if you keep a small cosmetic sponge handy, once you apply the stain on your cheeks you just quickly dab and blend with the sponge quickly and your cheeks will look perfectly pinched and not streaky. Give it a try.

I know that I’m not the only one out there with a hectic schedule and hardly any time to spare but if you can get away with stealing some time I highly recommend you visit your local BeneFit counter and give these products a shot. I’m totally loyal and after the terrific results Kristie, Barbara and I have received I couldn’t help but share my experience with you!

Cosmetic Stains = Freedom....What?!?

I love anything that sparkles, shimmery eyeshadow, yummy smelling fragrances, a great pair of shoes, candles, girlfriends… It’s no question that I am a girly girl and I enjoy my girly world. There is so much in my girly life that I would like to experience and see that truthfully I can not stand wasting my time on things that need to be redone over and over (with the exception of applying lip gloss)! Honestly! When I apply my makeup in the morning I expect it to stay on and look good for the duration of the day. I take careful time to prime my skin just right so my foundation, eyeshadow, and blush look fresh and pretty all day. And I’m sure to use a setting spray and powder so that I can go without havening to blot my skin more than a couple of times a day. Last thing I want to be remembered for is the “girl who always had her mirror out fixing her makeup!” Ugh! Not for me.

This is why I am so thankful when I truly find those amazing products that help make our lives so much easier and our makeup picture perfect all day. Come one and come all and add these amazing products to your makeup regime:



Anastasia of Beverly Hills Eyebrow Marker. An actual eyebrow stain marker that is a universal color and adheres to both your skin and hair. The application is smooth, soft, and subtle. Not only is it a “stain” which is equal to longer wear time it also helps improve the wear power of all your other favorite Anastasia of Beverly Hills eyebrow products that you would apply over top of the eyebrow marker. So, those misshaped or sometimes sparse eyebrows are easily transformed into beautiful perfect shaped brows making your eyes standout in a natural and powerful way!



Tarte Cosmetics 4 Day Stay Lash Stain. AHHHHH! It’s like the Heavens opened up and a ray of light came down and landed on this amazing product. I definitely have the 4 day lash stain on my pedestal! Not only is the mascara amazing…it also conditions your eyelashes with a great water based formula and a B5 vitamin and mineral pigment to help thicken lashes and still look pretty and natural. And honestly it does stay on for a few days!!! I love, love, LOVE, this product!

I couldn’t be happier to share both these products with all of you. Anything to make our crazy, hectic, busy lives a little easier and still look glam is just what the beauty doctor ordered! So go be beautiful…but please enjoy all of life too without worrying about how your makeup is holding up…but instead know that you look just as put together as you did when you spent the time putting on your makeup for the day!

Road Trippin Cosmetics...

Going on a two week road trip was quite the adventure. My husband, two kids—ages 8 and 10, my brother-in-law and his wife, and me….all in a seven passenger minivan! So when I say ‘adventure’ I mean craziness! Could you imagine the luggage alone for six people for a two week long trip? We actually did pretty good at packing minimal bags especially since I am a notorious over packer. The one thing I absolutely could not do without…even if I had to carry it on my lap for the entire trip…was my beloved MAC train case. Even though I had to be very choosey with the makeup, skincare, fragrance, and hair care products I wanted to bring—it would all be safe in my sturdy, heat resistant, water resistant, case.



So after our entire trip was said and done I have to admit that I fell in love all over again with a few of my favorite products. Everyday I would use Purity Made Simple face wash by Philosophy to cleanse my face in the morning and the evening. It smells so good and really does a gentle deep cleaning. I am from Southern California and traveling through the South and on the East Coast with that very hot humid weather…my face felt so grimy by the end of the day. I’m used to the dry heat and needing tons of moisturizer…but on this trip a daily deep cleaning felt necessary. Now I am addicted to using that cleanser for its gentleness and I will definitely be repurchasing it. As a side note…I also used the Amazing Grace shower gel every day. That stuff just smells sooooo good and fresh. And my skin felt so incredibly soft. I have always loved the whole Amazing Grace line and for some reason I had it stashed in the back of my medicine cabinet. One thing for sure is….it’s definitely staying out of the closet and in the shower for now on!

As far as makeup goes…you all know how much I love it. I didn’t think I would be in the mood to wear it everyday because of the weather but I think because I started out with such a great base (clean, moisturized skin) I felt very comfortable wearing it just about every day. A light coat of MAC Face and Body Foundation mixed with BeneFit’s Do It Daily SPF moisturizer was a nice way to keep my skin protected and even looking without looking or feeling like I had on foundation.

I either wore Tarte’s cheek stain in Flush, MAC’s Dollymix blush, or just bronzer on my cheeks each day.


As for lips it was either a Sephora brand sparkly lip gloss I have (not sure the name but it is a nude pink with refined sparkles in it). I love that gloss so much! Or I would just wear cheery chapstick…forever a favorite!

Now eyes….no matter what kind of eye shadows I wore I knew my base needed to be there. I swear by MAC Cosmetic Paints. They are totally tried and true and I think a must-have for EVERYONE! I personally either wear “bare canvas” or “stilife” on a pretty regular basis. Of course I had a little bit of everything as far as eye shadows go. The range was from neutrals, some bold and bright colors, and of course some darker colors and all different kinds of textures. I carried several different lines but no matter what I would start with that MAC paint. One of my favorites that I had was this really pretty Dior Palette –“stylish move 970.” It’s a great palette of five colors that you can do a lot with. I love the rich plum color along with the lighter shades which really provide a lot of versatility.

Eyeliner is another must-have…in my never so humble opinion. Again I can swear by all Power Point Liners made by MAC Cosmetics. My two must-haves that I actually carry in my purse everyday are “Stubborn Brown” and “Engraved.” They work great in the inner rim of the eye…if you are into that look. I am…I swear I am such an eyeliner lover. I can’t get enough of it and I love to wear it. I also like that the Power Point liners go on so smooth like a kohl liner but then set to a more smudge proof and water resistant liner. I still set it with eyeshadow just as added protection but I love that I can get a real defined lined or the perfect smudged and or smoky look. Blinc’s Kiss Me eyeliner also made its way in my case. I just can’t go on a long trip like that without such a long lasting, heavy duty, liquid liner. That stuff has CRAZY stay power! It is seriously the most Perfect product for that retro wing-tip liner that my husband loves whenever I wear it. I’m more of a “smoky” girl but once in a while a clean, wing tip, upper lid lined eye is simple and chic.

And of course makeup isn’t complete until you frame those eyes by taking care of our eyebrows. I was so thankful for the Anastasia Eyebrow grooming kit. Everything I needed and then some in one kit. I totally fell in love with the eye brow gel while on my trip. That stuff works so good and doesn’t get flaky at all. A total bonus in my book. Of course I had to finish eyes out with a hefty layer of mascara after a quick curl with my Shu Uemura curler. I had Loreal Voluminous mascara. I love it. Two coats and lashes look thick, long, and black!!!

I finished everything out with a light dusting of MAC cosmetic’s invisible set powder. I’ve been using this stuff nonstop since the bridal season began this year. A sheer dusting of this light weight product does the trick in setting make up and absorbing shine. It’s a winner!

Now that I am home I have a much deeper appreciation for all these wonderful products. I have drawers full of all kinds of different face, cheek, lip, and eye products which I have a total separation-anxiety-panic-attack when it comes to trying to weed some of the products out because I love it all…it was a good reminder to me that I can still have lots of options and versatility with limited supply. So my friends and daughter are stoked right now knowing that I will be going through my stuff and sharing all my treasured goodies. Of course this stuff has a shelf life and I am happy to share with other makeup enthusiasts’ like me!

BEAUTIFUL BROWS by Anastasia

Ever since I was a young girl and fascinated with Brook Shields and the other power supermodels-- eyebrows have always been a favorite feature of mine on the face. The way eyebrows frame the eyes and give so much expression and personality it’s fascinating to me as both a makeup artist and an avid people watcher!

A few years back when I first heard of Anastasia and her boutique in Beverly Hills I made a personal vow that one day I would definitely experience what she has to offer. I haven’t been there yet but it has been a pleasure to have her products here at home and now part of my makeup kit.



Well groomed brows make all the difference in the world when making a statement with your eyes. Even if you are unaware of it…we all make statements with our eyes even before we open our mouths. We make eye contact when we speak to people. We sometimes speak through our eyes in the way we look around or the way we look at other people. There is no better way to looked bright eyed and approachable then to keep well manicured brows and to use eye brighteners or illuminators to help our eyes look open and awake. And guess what….Anastasia of Beverly Hills has all the answers and products to help us achieve our well groomed, bright eyed, beautiful eyes. Better yet…we can do it all from home (although a trip to Beverly Hills would be a hoot)! Anastasia made grooming our eyebrows from home as easy as 1, 2, 3!

You can purchase a kit that includes everything you need. I have the five piece kit and it’s incredible. We’re talking tools like tweezers (the BEST I have EVER used), a double ended brush (slanted angle on one side and spooley), stencils (four in all to find your most perfect shape), brow powder (which helps give definition, shape, and fill in any voids), and lastly brow gel (to keep the perfectly done up eyebrows in place)! Then you can highlight and brighten up your eyes with EYE LIGHTS SHIMMER and/or EYE LIGHTS MATTE. You just apply either or both products beneath your eve brows on your brow bone and both in the corner of your eyes and outer corner to help open up those eyes, cover up dark and puffy eyes, and look fresh and awake. Every time I do special event makeup I never forget to do these steps. It makes all the difference in the world.

Who doesn’t want approachable, bright, playful eyes? Anastasia has really earned her title of eyebrow guru and expert and her products don’t disappoint but instead offer a quick and easy way to achieve glamorous results simply at home. Check out her website at www.anastasia.net to check out the full line of products and read all kinds of amazing tips she has. I promise you will be beyond satisfied but addicted to beautiful brows after experiencing products by Anastasia.

INTERVENE by Elizabeth Arden

It’s that time of year again when I am just totally and completely consumed with bridal makeup! I love it. I love being a part of making a woman feel and look beautiful on one of the most special days of her lives. She knows she looks her best as she is gliding down that aisle to her beloved….her future….her hopes and dreams in front of her as she passes by her family and friends. I starting to notice that there was a difference in the final result of a makeup application on a woman on her wedding day and I needed to put my finger on what made a woman glow on her wedding day. I think it just comes from within. Like maybe from the joy and excitement or maybe from the sweet anticipation that the bride feels as she is getting ready to start the rest of her life as a married woman. Whatever it is…I am always on the look out for those products that give that “Special Glow.”

As always, I am constantly trying new products. Of course I have my constant favorites in which I am loyal to but I also from time to time find some gems that earn a spot on my “tried and true” favorites list. This is where I have just included Elizabeth Arden’s newest foundation, INTERVENE. I have used it now for a few months and I couldn’t be happier with the results. I am not someone who wears foundation everyday and when I do it is usually a nice sheer lightweight formula which helps even out my skin tone and tone down my freckles : ) Well, it seems like each time I have worn INTERVENE by Elizabeth Arden I get compliments on how beautiful my skin is. Last time somebody actually commented on how bright and flawless my skin looked. Wow! What a compliment….especially with my lack of sleep and hectic schedule. I felt anything but bright and flawless. So now INTERVENE has become my feel good foundation. I wear it when I need a little pick me up and I feel confident when I have this foundation on.

Elizabeth Arden has done a beautiful job in creating a foundation that actually helps pause the signs of aging with the technology of using “biodormin.” Like I said, with results of evening out skin tone, brightening skin tone, and the micro-mineral pigment liquid formula you are going to LOVE this foundation. It comes in 12 shades so you should have no problem finding a shade that works for you and with an SPF of 15 and oil free formula there is no reason why you shouldn’t pick up a bottle of this foundation and try it out for yourself. I am using it on all my clients this season and couldn’t be happier with the results. Go check out more info on the product at www.elizabetharden.com

Smell Good=Feel Good!

I am amazed over and over at how our senses truly play such a big role in our attitude and mood. I just went through a pretty intense knee surgery and have been feeling like blah just lying around completely unhelpful. I never realized what a complete control freak I am until I really came face to face with having no control over anything and completely depending on the help of my family and friends for everything. I am truly blessed to have such wonderful people in my life that are willing to sacrifice their time and joyfully take care of my needs. THANK YOU : ) Anyway, as I was laying here feeling blah I knew after three full days of no showering I was in desperate need of a sponge bath and a good hair wash. After finally getting the “okay” to go up stairs I was anxious to smell and feel clean and refreshed.

My hair desperately needed to be washed. I had dry ends and an oily scalp, tangles galore, and my hair certainly didn’t smell good. I had some products that I had wanted to test out from Crème of Nature. I knew this was a perfect time to try out this organic infused hair care line even though it has been designed for ethnic hair my hair situation was definitely going to put these products to the test. I used the Kiwi and Citrus Moisture-Active Shampoo first. It smells so good! Kiwi is known to protect hair while citrus is known to cleanse. The shampoo lathered up so nicely and my scalp felt cool as I rinsed the shampoo out. I decided to follow up with a special Jojoba and Olive Oil Moisture-Active Deep Conditioning Treatment. I felt like my hair really needed a deep conditioning and this Crème of Nature treatment really delivered great results. I massaged the product into my hair and left it on for twenty minutes while I gave myself a sponge bath. The jojoba is a conditioning agent and skin protector and the olive oil provides conditioning, strengthening, and improves the elasticity of the hair. My hair felt silky and smooth as I rinsed out the conditioner and it smelled fabulous. I followed my conditioning treatment up with the Lemongrass and Rosemary leave in Conditioner just on the ends of my hair which were extremely dry. Crème of Nature totally delivers! My hair feels healthy, clean, and repaired. Yes! Two thumbs up to great organically infused hair products that provide clean, soft hair.

Once my hair was clean and undergoing a deep conditioning….it was time to have a sponge bath! I filled up my sink with hot water and pumped out some “Luv” body wash by Sharon Bolton Scents into the water. I thoroughly washed down my body and then rinsed off, dried off and then lathered myself in “Luv” body lotion by Sharon Bolton Scents. Oh my gosh….I already felt a million times better just from that process. I’m a girl that ALWAYS wears perfume or fragrance of some sort. I couldn’t justify spraying on perfume as I laid “out of it” on the couch but fragranced body wash and lotion are a different story. I needed to use a body wash and I always need to apply lotion on my body after I shower—and actually throughout the day. I’m known as a serious lotion addict. So to use my Sharon Bolton Scents products just seemed to make good sense to me—after all they are my very favorite and I always feel pretty when I know I smell irresistible. Even if I was laid up on the couch I suddenly felt good, positive, and ready for a speedy recovery.

Nanette Lepore

I really get a kick out of being a girl. And a girly girl I am!!! Dabbling in makeup, skincare, and fragrances gives me such a high and I can't get enough of it. Everyday I HAVE to see what's going on over at Spektra.com to see what is new and upcoming and of course I get my doses of hellodollface.com that my dear friend, Cindy is the creator of. There is just such a multitude of products out there and I love reading people's opinions on them. It is also always my pleasure to introduce and review products that I haven't seen on other sites yet or those that I just absolutely fall in love with!!!

Okay, so everyone who knows me knows I am a sucker for packaging. Probably one of the main reasons that I owned almost the entire Benefit Cosmetics line at one point! I have been brought to my knees once again for some of the most adorable packaging I have ever seen with Nanette Lepore's new fragrance "nanette lepore." The vintage feel of the small pink bottle and the black bow with white polka dots around the round cap. I find it all so adorable. So when I opened this precious little goodie and sprayed my wrists.....Mmmmmm....a warm fuzzy just went through my whole body. The smell is intoxicating in such a whimsical way. So fresh and light but a delightfully warm undertone. I found my self starting to spray my neck, then the back of my neck, my chest, and then all over. I wanted to be a dancing doll smelling of playful sweetness with a sensual afterthought to those I passed by. This is exactly how this fragrance makes me feel. It is definitely going on my favorites list! I've often wondered what was going to be the first fragrance that I would buy for my daughter. She is only 10 now but I figured maybe for her 13th birthday I would let her test out the glamorous world of fragrance and cosmetics.....Of course in an age appropriate way. I really think I have found what will be her very first Perfume. I am so excited to love a fragrance so much that I can't wait to gift it out three years from now!

Check it out. I hope you love it as much as I do!

xx

Elizabeth Arden, MAC Cosmetics, and Very Sexy by Victoria's Secret--All faithful, tried and true!

It's no secret that I have always enjoyed writing along with my passion of doing makeup. When I finally combined it with my passion and love for the world of cosmetics I had finally found a hobby that truly brought me joy. It's been fun exploring all kinds of different cosmetics, fragrances, and skin care products and I found testing them out on myself, friends, family and my makeup clients honestly brought me a lot of excitement and pleasure. Before I knew it I realized that coming onto my humble blog was a source of relaxation and a nice break from my everyday life. That fact didn't come so clear to me until my life kind of became turned upside down and inside out over the last few weeks. From recovering from the holiday vacation--straight into moving into a new house--to preparing for major knee surgery--while covering my bases for work, family, and home--not to mention that we will be starting wedding season here in about 6 to 8 weeks-- I have truly missed sitting down and writing about my latest tried and true products! For those of you who come back regularly--a big THANK YOU!

I have had the opportunity to try a few new products recently but I know that is a few of the older ones that have really done their duty in making me look well and rested when the truth of the matter is that I'm not! My friend and co-worker Rhonda and I went on a three day work trip to Las Vegas a couple of weeks ago. Of course while we were there we had to be responsible and have our head in the game for work--which was successful--but how do you go to Vegas without experiencing the night life Vegas has to offer? So we worked hard all day and stayed up most of the night (averaging about three hours of sleep three nights in a row)so that we could party and live it up while we were there. Besides from LOTS of coffee and other caffeinated beverages I owe a few beauty products some major thumbs up!

So, although I only got a few hours of sleep each night I KNOW that my Elizabeth Arden Prevage night cream definitely did it's beauty sleep magic. My face looked rested and smooth and the skin around my eyes looked soft and firm. Prevage certainly is my best beauty sleep miracle maker!

Now, I also have to give kudos to my favorite MAC cosmetics product: PAINT. It has been one of favorite cosmetics for years and years. With just a thin layer of this creamy product on my eyelids under my eyeshadow I was able to go all day and then turn my daytime makeup into night time makeup in just a flash without my eyeshadow ever wearing off. I'm serious. This is a kit must have and I never go on a job without it!

Last but not least I never leave home without a trusty lip gloss. Santa actually put a few in my stocking that I had never tried before from Victoria's Secret. I loved them. I had a nude shade, a coral shade, and a sparkly pink. I brought all tree to Vegas with me and wore them all weekend long.

Get Jack Black!

Happy New Year! It’s so exciting to be starting off a brand new year. I personally have so many new things going on in my life and I am excited to see what the year will have to offer. My family and I decided that we would end the year right and spend our Christmas budget on a winter vacation instead of all the Christmas gifts and parties and everything else we normally do. So we were off to Lake Tahoe the day after Christmas and spent a week enjoying all the winter activities. So you may be wondering how my Christmas vacation ties in with my favorite subjects of beauty and cosmetics but of course in my beauty obsessed world it’s never hard to do. So the big news is Jack Black Skincare! This is a skincare line geared to men but I thoroughly enjoyed the lip conditioner/treatment all week long.

When you are enjoying all the winter activities such as snowboarding, sledding, ice skating, and enjoying those nice brisk walks through the winter streets your exposed skin really takes a toll. It’s easy to get dry cracked lips and wind burned skin. I insisted that my husband and son actually take some time to really take care of their skin and prep it in a way that would be beneficial and protective in the elements. Each day I recommended that they use the Jack Black Double Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 with Blue Algae Extract and Sea Parsley. It provides the protection and the botanicals that are nourishing to the skins. I was impressed at how light weight and moisturizing the cream is. Also my husband is very sensitive to highly fragrant products and refuses to smell “girly.” The moisturizer is fragrance free and even the most macho man wouldn’t be ashamed to use these products.

Our precious lips are also extremely sensitive to extreme weather conditions. So I was happy to carry along Jack Black’s Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25 with Natural Mint and Shea Butter. We all used this product! I love the emollient base and minty smell. This product is awesome in restoring your lips to be smooth and kissable.

So now is the time to have the men in your lives taking care of their skin before they hit those slopes or face the cold windy days. Do what I did. Just set the products near their sink next to their toothbrushes. That way remembering to use their moisturizer after they wash their face and brush their teeth in the morning becomes routine. Just so you know Jack Black makes a full line of products from shaving cream to shampoo and conditioner so you can get your man hooked on the entire line!

I love my boys!

I got my EYELASHES permed!

Have you ever gotten a perm…..for your EYELASHES? Yes, I said “perm.” I know it sounds bizarre but let me tell you….it’s AWESOME! I personally am obsessed about keeping my eyelashes curled. I just think it looks good. Especially on those days that I really don’t have time to do my makeup or don’t want to—I will still always curl my lashes, apply a little bit of mascara and some lip gloss. Well getting my eyelashes permed were one of the best things I ever did. Instead of havening to curl my lashes multiple times a day to keep them where they belong they are already curled and remain curled. I still use my eyelash curler on some mornings when I use a little bit heavier of a mascara. So now I think I’m hooked!

Here’s how the process went down. I went and saw my esthetician, Tracy and she had me lie down. She cleaned my lashes with one of her Dermalogica Products to make sure I didn’t have any makeup residue on my eyelashes. Next, she pulled out her teeny tiny eyelash perm curling rods and picked out the size I would need. I get such a crack up out of the perming rods for lashes. Isn’t that funny! Next, Tracy went through the process of perming my lashes—I believe there were three different steps involved with the products. By the way, while my lashes were processing she plucked and manicured my brows—they never looked better! Approx. 45 minutes went by and I was done. My lashes were delicately curled. I went home and threw on some mascara and was really impressed at how great and open my eyes looked.

So now there will be no more over obsessing over my eyelash curler. Instead I will go visit Tracy every three months and get my lashes “done.”

I can’t do a post about eyelashes and not pay tribute to a few of my favorite mascaras:

Mascara X by M.A.C. Cosmetics

Lights, Camera, Lashes! by Tarte Cosmetics

Lash Injection by Too Faced Cosmetics

Are you a MAC cosmetics ORIGINAL?

I’m not kidding when I say I have been using MAC Cosmetics for half my life. We’re talking a good sixteen years! I fell in love “originally” with Studio Fix Foundation in C2 and N3 (I’ve always needed to mix the colors). Of course I really liked the foundation but I found myself wanting some of the vibrant colors that MAC had to offer. I swear the lipsticks had a hypnotic way about them that just lured me over to them. I had to pick them up, test them on my hand until I had at least a dozen stripes on my hand from testing out the colors and textures, and then choose a favorite that I just could not leave the store without. Then as I went to purchase my lipstick I couldn’t help but browse by the eyeshadows. How could I buy a lipstick and not an eyeshadow? Won’t the eyeshadow’s feel left out if I walk on by without even testing a few out to see if there were any I just couldn’t live without? Of course they would! And that’s how I slowly but surely became a MAC addict and started building my collection.

I honestly believe that I have earned my place as a MAC “original.” With purchases of Russian Red lipstick (everyone knows that MAC’s lipsticks are what put them on the map), My C-Thru Lipglass (such a pretty sheer lipglass that is a great medium for mixing with all kinds of other colors), and lets not forget my first three eyeshadows: sketch, carbon and shroom. Along with my very first professional brush: the coveted 266 brush (the slanted angled brush that you can use for brows, eyeliner or to intensify your crease). I was hooked from the get-go! I need to mention one thing that I have always really loved about MAC cosmetics as a company is that when I started working for the company I really was introduced to a whole new world of techniques and skills. MAC has always encouraged individuality and uniqueness for everyone. I didn’t go work for MAC and was then taught how to do makeup the MAC way….that would go against everything they endorse. Instead, they nurture each of our individual passion and skill in applying makeup which made up this wonderful culture of very unique and creative makeup artists. I’m so privileged to have been part of that society. And to have learned so much by working with all different sorts of clients and other makeup artists. So in tribute to Individuality and Uniqueness……

I am delighted to tell you all about MAC’s the Originals collection which will be released the day after Christmas!!! Yea! They are bringing back and vamping up the products that have become “must haves” or products that may have been discontinued but long desired. All in celebration on ones individuality and originality—this collection is going to be fierce! I found these pictures from temptalia.com of the collection that will be hitting counters on December 26th, 2007:


Lipsticks
Utter Pervette Soft pastel pink (lustre)
Nouveau-frou Beigey grey pink with white pearlized pigments (lustre)
Rozz Revival Watermelon reddish-pink (lustre)
Sandy B Light shell pink (frost)
Russian Red Intense bluish-red (matte)
Retrofluid Sheer deep plum with gold and red pearlized pigments (lustre)
Back to Del Rio Deep brown red (lustre)
Supersequin Plummy pink with silver pearlized pigments (lustre)
Twig Twig Neutral brown plum (lustre)
Chintz on Chintz Sheer mid-tone yellow brown (lustre)


Lipglasses
Full On Lust Neutral brown pink (cream)
Nico Now Mid-tone grey purple with multi-coloured pearlized pigments (frost)
Avarice Mid-tone yellow red with soft red pearlized pigments (cream)
Real Desire Deep plum with red pearlized pigments (frost)
C-Thru Soft peached-beige with shimmer (cream)



Eyeshadows
Daisychain Soft yellow-beige with soft white pearlized pigments (satin)
Ochre Style Mid-tone yellow brown with gold (frost)
Frisco Soft pastel pink (matte)
A Little Folie Mid-tone red brown (matte)
Clue Mid-tone grey with silver pearlized pigments (frost)
Alum Mid-tone blue grey with soft blue pearlized pigments (satin)
Charred Deep steel grey with silver pearlized pigments (frost)
Memorabilia Mid-tone purple (matte)
Parrot Deep aqua blue with bright green and blue pearlized pigments (frost)


Eye Pencils
Indigo Muted greenish-blue
Coffee Muted brown
Ebony Soft black



Pigments
Kitschmas Light airy shimmering pink mauve with pearlized pigments (frost)
Violet Vivid bright purple (frost)
Golden Olive High frosted green gold (frost)
Melon Soft bright golden peach (frost)
Steel Blue Rich deep turquoise green blue with small pearlized particles (pearl)
Reflects Blackened Red Sparkling burgundy
Reflects Very Pink Sparkling fuchsia pink
Reflects Transparent Teal Sparkling white with turquoise
Reflects Antique Gold Sparkling taupe


As if the collection weren’t enough….MAC is also going to put on an “Are you a MAC Original” contest! I was able to participate in a sneak preview of the contest in Los Angeles at the Paper Magazine Event in early November. Basically the contest will be regional and national and there are big stakes at large. We’re talking a $1000 MAC gift card as a grand prize in the National contest!!! The regional contest will be held in the six key cities: New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Las Vegas, San Francisco and Houston. The winner of the regional contest will win a $250 MAC gift card plus the Originals collection and a story in a local publication!!! I can hardly believe it! What a fantastic idea! You’ll have to wait until the product launch for more rules and regulations to be posted at www.maccosmetics.com on the “Are you a MAC Original” contest. So start thinking about how you are a MAC original and you never know...you may have great rewards headed for you in the near future. Regardless, it's always fun looking back on our journey and seeing where we started and where we are now. Our roots are set with key moments in our lives. Although we are just talking cosmetics here....I know first hand how a little bit of sparkle or a great lipstick can make a bad day into one that has something to feel good and be joyous about. So think back about your "originals" and discover your story that has evolved into your beauty regime today! Good Luck!

Introducing PREVAGE Anti-Aging Night Cream by Elizabeth Arden

I have been using PREVAGE Anti-Aging night cream for the last two weeks. My skin looks younger. It felt smoother and firmer in just a few days. Impressive—for sure. What’s neat about this product is that it is proven to help your skin’s night time natural repair process with amazing ingredients like:
Idebenone (a skin revitalizer) which is encapsulated and time-released in the night time moisturizer;
Mega Complex-A (a vitamin based blend) like vitamin A, which smoothes lines and wrinkles, Lemon Peel extract—a brightner for age spots and discolored skin, and Vitamin E which restores our skin.

This is all really cool right? But wait—the moisturizer comes in this futuristic jar that keeps the product sealed and fresh. There is no way that air can mix in with the product and also the innovative design keeps the product totally sterile. I really appreciate that being the germ-a-phob that I am. Go to any Elizabeth Arden counter to check out the PREVAGE collection. If you are like me and are a sensory person you will most certainly be delighted. The products smells so good, it’s a fantastic night time cream without feeling real heavy, and simply tried and true—the product delivers what it promises: to repair, refresh and recover.

MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam Lipstick

December 1st was World Aids Day. A day to bring awareness to the disease and what is being done to eradicate it. Although I am a few days late posting, I think it's great to bring awareness to AIDS all year long. This is exactly what MAC cosmetics does and why I have always been so proud to either work for them or refer their products to all my clients. They introduced their Viva Glam lipstick line thirteen years ago in an attempt to raise money and awareness to AIDS and HIV. This is what is posted on their website:

"The M·A·C AIDS Fund, the heart and soul of M·A·C Cosmetics, was established in 1994 to support men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS globally. The M·A·C AIDS Fund is a pioneer in HIV/AIDS funding, providing financial support to organizations working with underserved regions and populations. As the largest corporate non-pharmaceutical donor in the arena, the Fund strives to raise awareness of four key issues in the fight against HIV/AIDS: prevention, the link between poverty and HIV/AIDS, access to care, and adherence to medications and treatments. To date, the M·A·C AIDS Fund has raised more than $95 million (U.S.) exclusively through the sale of VIVA GLAM lipsticks and lipglass, donating 100 percent of the selling price to the M·A·C AIDS Fund. "

We now know that MAC has surpassed the $95 million and has raised $100 million! It's Incredible!

MAC is able to raise them money through people like you and me who love lipstick. They have six different Viva Glam shades and the entire purchasing price goes straight to their AIDS foundation. Remember this when you are out and about Christmas shopping this year. My personal favorite Viva Glam color is V. It's a beautiful pinky nude and I promise it looks good on everyone!

Go and support a worthy cause. Get yourself a Viva Glam lipstick and pick one up for your BFF for Christmas too!

xx

Elizabeth Arden, Sharon Bolton, Benefit Cosmetics, Issey Miyake...you decide your favorite scent!

It’s that time of year where we get together with our family and friends and celebrate our family traditions. I absolutely love the fall and winter time. I love to embrace the Holidays—giving thanks for all that I hold dear, celebrating the birth of Jesus, and finally closing the year out with a big bang (usually my “big bang” is a good card game and a few drinks!)

Although Christmas time has a very spiritual meaning behind it in our family—we still enjoy the regular traditions of Santa Claus, holiday parties, and gift giving. It’s so much fun—especially those white elephant parties! That's why I would like to take the next couple of weeks to post on some fabulous gift ideas.

First on my list is fragrances! Who doesn’t enjoy a nice bottle of perfume? Also, It’s an item that people don’t always like to splurge on for themselves but can really appreciate it as a gift. I’d like to spotlight on: Badgley Mischka Fleurs de Nuit by Elizabeth Arden. This is my night time…going out…all glamed up perfume. I honestly feel like I have gone back in time to when getting dolled up was a glamorous event. I can imagine Marilyn Monroe putting on this scent before going to a Hollywood cocktail party. Badgley Mischka smells sophisticated and sensual. Check it out at ElizabethArden.com! Just putting it on changes my mood and makes me feel sexy and flirty in a very confident way! This one’s a winner!

Another favorite that I have to mention is Sharon Bolton’s Luv. It comes in a handy rollerball that I always kept in my purse—until it was completely used up. I loved it as an everyday fragrance. It has a very warm-tropical-floral feel to it. I will be addicted for life! I think having a perfume oil in a rollerball form is brilliant. It makes it so easy to freshen up while you are out and about!

Maybe Baby by Benefit Cosmetics is a great gift to give. This is another light and flirty scent. Perfect to put on when you are having a sweet intimate evening with your loved one. I’ve continuously had this perfume for about four years. Love it!

Issey Miyake is a fragrance you absolutely cannot go wrong with. I think it smells good on everyone. It's light enough to be an everyday scent but has that warm undertone that makes it a more formal smelling scent. My husband bought me this perfume several years ago and it is one of my favorites. I try to keep it special just for him and wear it when we go out on a date or are spending the day together--alone! He loves it and I think he feels special that I have my own favorite scent that I wear just for him!

Happy gift giving and let me know what your favorite scents are too!

The Birthday Girl!

I came home a couple of nights ago from doing a little Christmas shopping and to my surprise I had a birthday cake waiting to greet me with all the love a mom could ask for in the form of a baked with love birthday cake. Oh my heart just melted! It is so cute. The way Isabelle decorated the right side and Ethan's left side with the backwards 3 (didn't he notice that?!) I thought it was the most precious thing ever and it definitely is way better than the Sprinkles cupcakes that I got last year! Thanks Erica for doing this with the kids--I love it so much! What a thoughtful gesture!

Today is my birthday and I am so excited. It's silly feeling all giddy like a kid--isn't it. But I can't help it--I get to be pampered by spending time with my friends and family and that's truly my favorite thing in life. You know relationships--they're the only thing eternal in our lives--Good company and a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks and I am on cloud nine! Even though it's a Monday and I have to work--I absolutely adore my coworker, Rhonda--she's great company and has a sweet heart. It's my pleasure to spend my birthday in the office with her.



Every year I tell people to not worry about buying me gifts but instead lets get together for a meal! I love socailizing and eating is always a good time too! Well, every year there are a few people that just can't help but buy me a gift and this year I have to pay tribute to the thoughtfulness and generosity of my brother in law and sister in law for the "Bithday Girl" gift set by philosophy. I love it! Who knew that they could top last year's Sephora gift card and the Amazing Graze body wash? How totally thoughtful especially since I know they think I am crazy and obsessed with all my makeup and skincare--with it bursting out of the seams of my drawers and purse! But I truly love the stuff--and they truly picked out a perfect gift! Thank you so much!

After all the craziness surrounding this Thanksgiving weekend I was delighted to dive in and test out my birthday gift. It was like giving myself a mini spa treatment and I felt and smelled so good when I was all done! Who wouldn't after using these products?:

2 oz. amazing grace perfumed shampoo, shower gel and bubble bath,
2 oz. purity made simple one-step facial cleanser,
1 oz. time on your hands exfoliating hand cream,
1 oz. soul owner exfoliating foot cream, and
.5 oz. kiss me red highly emollient lip balm.

So, if you're looking for a funtastic gift to give to that special someone in your life--I highly recommend "birthday girl" gift set by philosophy. Even if she has everything a girl could ever want she is going to love this cute and functional set!