I have recently joined the Clarisonic club. I have heard nothing but great things and I am surprised it took me so long to get one. The Clarisonic doesn't scrub in circles like I figured it did. All of the other face gadgets , I assumed, scrubbed in circles. The Big C actually vibrates. Some of my skincare gurus have taught me that the "other gadgets" damage your skin. I see a change in my skin. I feel that my pores are being cleaned better and my products are really starting to work! Of course they are, they have a clean base to sink into.
Thumbs up to the Clarisonic. They come with a cap for the brush so you can travel with it. Mine also came with a sample of cleanser that I am really liking too!It's Clarisonic brand, apparently they have a product line too.
Happy New Year
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Friday, December 21, 2012
Philosophy by Diane Lewis
Happy Friday-
As you know, the Mid-West was recently "hit" with some cold temperatures and snow. I keep an eye on the weather forecast and knew what was coming toward Cincinnati. Last night we had really strong winds. This morning I awoke to howling winds and a very cold temperature in my apartment! I laid in my bed, snuggled in with my flannel sheets and heating blanket, and did not want to get out of my cocoon!
What got me out of bed? The thought of slipping on one of my Cashmere sweaters and some velvet leggings. Talk about a warm outfit! I have now bought two Cashmere sweaters over the last year or so and have fallen in love. The one I wore today is by Diane Lewis. It was a really affordable piece so if you have an opportunity, look at her collection. Good stuff!
As you know, the Mid-West was recently "hit" with some cold temperatures and snow. I keep an eye on the weather forecast and knew what was coming toward Cincinnati. Last night we had really strong winds. This morning I awoke to howling winds and a very cold temperature in my apartment! I laid in my bed, snuggled in with my flannel sheets and heating blanket, and did not want to get out of my cocoon!
What got me out of bed? The thought of slipping on one of my Cashmere sweaters and some velvet leggings. Talk about a warm outfit! I have now bought two Cashmere sweaters over the last year or so and have fallen in love. The one I wore today is by Diane Lewis. It was a really affordable piece so if you have an opportunity, look at her collection. Good stuff!
Monday, December 17, 2012
Max Studio
Nordstrom Rack is absolutely one of my favorite, if not the favorite store of mine. The treasures and finds that get passed "down" from Nordstrom Department store are killer!!!
I tend to dress up at work more than the average gal. I really like dresses. No top and bottoms to match up, just throw one piece on and you are set. The Rack, as I affectionately refer to it as, consistently has a nice stock of Max Studio dresses. They are great!
I didn't used to be a big M.S. fan, but my tastes and style has evolved and I now have a few of this designer's dresses in my closet. The dresses fall right in the middle of the conservative-fun scale. They are not boring- at all, but they are totally office appropriate and are rarely flashy or too much for the cubicle ,fluorescent light environment. The price is always on point too, in my opinion. Max Studio is a good quality brand.
I tend to dress up at work more than the average gal. I really like dresses. No top and bottoms to match up, just throw one piece on and you are set. The Rack, as I affectionately refer to it as, consistently has a nice stock of Max Studio dresses. They are great!
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Sunday, December 2, 2012
The Shellac Manicure
Manicures are a weakness for me . I struggle with shaggy , dry cuticles in the Fall and Winter.
The last time I went to get my nails done , I decided to try the Shellac again. It's a colored gel that with the help of UV rays , hardens the color and makes a shiny , durable manicure. There's a top coat , and the traditional double coat of color . The great thing about Shellac is the fast drying time - it's four minutes. You leave with super shiny nails that won't chip for days . I got it done last Monday and I do not have a chip to speak of . It's supposed to last for two weeks before it's time to go back and get them painted again . If you decide to try one , don't attempt to scrape the color off yourself . Go to the salon and have them do it . Leave it to the Pros. I may post a photo of my candy apple red polish .
The last time I went to get my nails done , I decided to try the Shellac again. It's a colored gel that with the help of UV rays , hardens the color and makes a shiny , durable manicure. There's a top coat , and the traditional double coat of color . The great thing about Shellac is the fast drying time - it's four minutes. You leave with super shiny nails that won't chip for days . I got it done last Monday and I do not have a chip to speak of . It's supposed to last for two weeks before it's time to go back and get them painted again . If you decide to try one , don't attempt to scrape the color off yourself . Go to the salon and have them do it . Leave it to the Pros. I may post a photo of my candy apple red polish .
Monday, November 26, 2012
Starkist Tuna
The subject of this post sounds boring. The taste of the food is anything but.
Since it's just me at home ( most of the time) I eat convenience foods quite a bit. Canned tuna is usually in my cupboard.
Starkist Selects Yellowfin Marinated Tuna - Lemon Dill and Olive Oil is great. I was leery about how it would taste with the herbs and flavoring. I usually season my tuna anyway so it was nice to crack open the can and have a moist and flavorful taste. Tuna is a great source of protein for us. It's low in fat ( it may be fat free) and it's a quick and easy snack or meal, depending how you eat it. The USDA says to alternate between light and Albacore because the larger the fish, the more mercury it has ingested. I like it all.
Since it's just me at home ( most of the time) I eat convenience foods quite a bit. Canned tuna is usually in my cupboard.
Starkist Selects Yellowfin Marinated Tuna - Lemon Dill and Olive Oil is great. I was leery about how it would taste with the herbs and flavoring. I usually season my tuna anyway so it was nice to crack open the can and have a moist and flavorful taste. Tuna is a great source of protein for us. It's low in fat ( it may be fat free) and it's a quick and easy snack or meal, depending how you eat it. The USDA says to alternate between light and Albacore because the larger the fish, the more mercury it has ingested. I like it all.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
I forgot ...Bare Minerals part II
Crap. I dont know what the deal is with the first one. Its suppose to be a shot of the cover. Maybe once you see it it will give you an option to transform , hahahaha.
Bare Minerals (!)
I'm pretty pumped about this consumer product I will discuss tonight.
I am sure I have mentioned the make-up Bare Minerals before.....right? I'm sure I have, I'd be shocked if not.This make-up changed my "life" ( not really but you know what I mean ) . I had been your typical foundation wearer since I was 13 years old and began wearing make-up ( dang that's too young!) . At a certain point in a Woman's life, the skin starts to sag a tiny bit, it will reveal some tiny cracks and oddities we aren't used to and frankly want to disappear! My point- your skin doesn't look as smoothed and plumped as it did when you were in your 20's. ahhh....the 20s.......Anyway, my friend pointed out to me that my foundation looked cakey. We were in Sephora so she said, try an application of my make-up, Bare Minerals. I knew she wore it and loved it. I just had such a hard time letting go the good 'ol compact powder and bottle of foundation I had relied on for so many years. I tested it out. It took a whole day and then another application ( done by yours truly) for me to get used to it. Well, I got REAL used to it. Fell in love with this product. It's all natural and gives your skin coverage , but in a natural way. How it works is really amazing and a miracle all rolled into one. I This line of cosmetics has changed the game of the customary, tried and true foundations that have been with us forever. Huh? A foundation in powder form? No way. That's what I said! I wear the Primer, use the bronzer as my blush and my newest fave from the line is as a matter of fact- Foundation. When I started the Bare Minerals "journey" I bought the foundation in a loose form. The company recently developed The Bare Minerals READY SPF20 Foundation. I just read that from the back of my compact. Yes- it's a compact form.The sleek design fits nicely in your cute make-up bag. It's a win-win , they added more moisturizers ( oops, didn't research that , sorry) as well as increased the SPF Protection to 20. AAAAnd, the sales girl at Ulta introduced me to THE best make-up brush I have owned. It's dense and has a slanted end. It's for applying heavier, matte foundation. I prefer this look so I bought one. I figured gimme a break, how is this 38 dollar weird looking brush going to expertly apply my foundation. It did!! Just a swipe on the foundation and buff it on. That's how the sales girl instructed me. Just buff , buff.I like B.M. because it has the SPF and is oil free. It just feels good on too, you know? I don't feel like I have make-up on but when I look into the mirror I see a made up face that has smooth looking skin and no " heavy, cakey look. Voila! Ladies you have to promise me you will try it. Hey- even if you have never been a big foundation girl, just try it out. I want to hear what you have to say. You can visit the Bare Minerals store for samples go to Ulta, Sephora and other fine retailers. I believe Nordstrom carries it.
That was a long one. I hope to write two more times before I leave for Holiday next week and that you enjoyed reading and learning abut this Great Make-Up. Peace and Love
I am sure I have mentioned the make-up Bare Minerals before.....right? I'm sure I have, I'd be shocked if not.This make-up changed my "life" ( not really but you know what I mean ) . I had been your typical foundation wearer since I was 13 years old and began wearing make-up ( dang that's too young!) . At a certain point in a Woman's life, the skin starts to sag a tiny bit, it will reveal some tiny cracks and oddities we aren't used to and frankly want to disappear! My point- your skin doesn't look as smoothed and plumped as it did when you were in your 20's. ahhh....the 20s.......Anyway, my friend pointed out to me that my foundation looked cakey. We were in Sephora so she said, try an application of my make-up, Bare Minerals. I knew she wore it and loved it. I just had such a hard time letting go the good 'ol compact powder and bottle of foundation I had relied on for so many years. I tested it out. It took a whole day and then another application ( done by yours truly) for me to get used to it. Well, I got REAL used to it. Fell in love with this product. It's all natural and gives your skin coverage , but in a natural way. How it works is really amazing and a miracle all rolled into one. I This line of cosmetics has changed the game of the customary, tried and true foundations that have been with us forever. Huh? A foundation in powder form? No way. That's what I said! I wear the Primer, use the bronzer as my blush and my newest fave from the line is as a matter of fact- Foundation. When I started the Bare Minerals "journey" I bought the foundation in a loose form. The company recently developed The Bare Minerals READY SPF20 Foundation. I just read that from the back of my compact. Yes- it's a compact form.The sleek design fits nicely in your cute make-up bag. It's a win-win , they added more moisturizers ( oops, didn't research that , sorry) as well as increased the SPF Protection to 20. AAAAnd, the sales girl at Ulta introduced me to THE best make-up brush I have owned. It's dense and has a slanted end. It's for applying heavier, matte foundation. I prefer this look so I bought one. I figured gimme a break, how is this 38 dollar weird looking brush going to expertly apply my foundation. It did!! Just a swipe on the foundation and buff it on. That's how the sales girl instructed me. Just buff , buff.I like B.M. because it has the SPF and is oil free. It just feels good on too, you know? I don't feel like I have make-up on but when I look into the mirror I see a made up face that has smooth looking skin and no " heavy, cakey look. Voila! Ladies you have to promise me you will try it. Hey- even if you have never been a big foundation girl, just try it out. I want to hear what you have to say. You can visit the Bare Minerals store for samples go to Ulta, Sephora and other fine retailers. I believe Nordstrom carries it.
That was a long one. I hope to write two more times before I leave for Holiday next week and that you enjoyed reading and learning abut this Great Make-Up. Peace and Love
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Peter Thomas Roth
Good Afternoon and Happy Holidays,
I've recently discovered a Fabulous lotion. It's by Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care. It's called the Mega Rich Body Lotion.
It's got vitamins C, E, and B5. It smells very good and leaves you skin feeling silky, not greasy. Oddly enough , two hotels I stayed in this year has his line for their toiletry products. I found this to be a very nice touch considering this brand is High-End and sold at certain retailers other than a Walgreens or CVS. I keep a tube on my desk at work and use it every day.
It's the time of year to lather up so grab some P.T.R. !
I've recently discovered a Fabulous lotion. It's by Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care. It's called the Mega Rich Body Lotion.
It's got vitamins C, E, and B5. It smells very good and leaves you skin feeling silky, not greasy. Oddly enough , two hotels I stayed in this year has his line for their toiletry products. I found this to be a very nice touch considering this brand is High-End and sold at certain retailers other than a Walgreens or CVS. I keep a tube on my desk at work and use it every day.
It's the time of year to lather up so grab some P.T.R. !
Friday, October 26, 2012
Nut Thins and La Roche -Posay
I think it's difficult to eat somewhat Healthfully and still satisfy that need for a potato chip/salt/crunch craving. I've discovered Almond Nut Thins by Blue Diamond and they are really tasty. So as to acknowledge the current food label trends, I will inform you that they are Gluten and Wheat free. They are round crackers that have a great crunch and zip- depending on what flavor you choose. I like the Cheddar or Sea Salt. They have about six different flavors make a good , quick snack. The first two ingredients are Rice Flour and Almonds. Kudos to the creator of these. There's a little bit of protein in each serving, and they run 130 calories per serving. I'll warn you though, finishing a box is no problem. It's like Pirate's Booty. You can just forget about saving some for another day because they are so good you cannot stop.
Any Retin-A users out there? Actually the I last time I was at the Dermo he referred to it as Tretinoin. I don't know what to call it but you know what I mean. La Roche Posay is a French product line. I believe Face Products are their specialty. I recently used a generous sample of the Redermic cream. It looks and feels like a Retin A or Tretinoin. The packaging says it's for Accentuated wrinkles , irregular skin tone and pre-mature age spots . Fun Stuff, right?! Not. It has Retinol and Salycylic Acid in it which are proven exfoliators. They promote cell turn-over which in turn produces "new" skin. New skin doesn't have spots, wrinkles, etc. If you research those ingredients you may find that the process of chemical exfoliation also encourages Collagen production. Who doesn't want more Collagen? :) It's not a cheap product but I know from experience that La Roche Posay has a good reputation.
Peace, Niki
Any Retin-A users out there? Actually the I last time I was at the Dermo he referred to it as Tretinoin. I don't know what to call it but you know what I mean. La Roche Posay is a French product line. I believe Face Products are their specialty. I recently used a generous sample of the Redermic cream. It looks and feels like a Retin A or Tretinoin. The packaging says it's for Accentuated wrinkles , irregular skin tone and pre-mature age spots . Fun Stuff, right?! Not. It has Retinol and Salycylic Acid in it which are proven exfoliators. They promote cell turn-over which in turn produces "new" skin. New skin doesn't have spots, wrinkles, etc. If you research those ingredients you may find that the process of chemical exfoliation also encourages Collagen production. Who doesn't want more Collagen? :) It's not a cheap product but I know from experience that La Roche Posay has a good reputation.
Peace, Niki
Saturday, October 13, 2012
DDF, WINE- Gettin' Bloggy Wit it
I'm lucky to have a friend that manages a Sephora. She feeds my love and interest in all things Beauty. Occasionally , she'll give me gratis and samples that she thinks I'd like to try.
DDF Amplifying Elixir is a serum that is to be applied after your moisturizer . It locks everything in and, amplifies it's effect apparently. I have been using it strictly on my neck for this evaluation. I'm trying to discourage the lovely horizontal lines that we all acquire after a while. My neck skin has never felt softer. It feels like silk to the touch, cheesy as it sounds. I have also seen a slight decrease in visible lines.
Folie a' Deux Me'nage 'a Trois- California Red Wine - 2010
I've seen this label around for a long time. I have probably had it by the glass at a restaurant or two, but have never bought a bottle.
The friendly wine guy at the Kroger by my office told me it's his favorite blend. I said I wasn't in the mood for something heavy or dry, just a nice sipper for my Friday night ( last night).
I love it. I'm not going to attempt to describe with a Vintner's vocabulary. The bottle states - Dark, Rich Berry with a hint of Pepper. I say- a Winner for ten bucks.
I'll be taking it to our Chili and Poker party tonight .
Have a great weekend
DDF Amplifying Elixir is a serum that is to be applied after your moisturizer . It locks everything in and, amplifies it's effect apparently. I have been using it strictly on my neck for this evaluation. I'm trying to discourage the lovely horizontal lines that we all acquire after a while. My neck skin has never felt softer. It feels like silk to the touch, cheesy as it sounds. I have also seen a slight decrease in visible lines.
Folie a' Deux Me'nage 'a Trois- California Red Wine - 2010
I've seen this label around for a long time. I have probably had it by the glass at a restaurant or two, but have never bought a bottle.
The friendly wine guy at the Kroger by my office told me it's his favorite blend. I said I wasn't in the mood for something heavy or dry, just a nice sipper for my Friday night ( last night).
I love it. I'm not going to attempt to describe with a Vintner's vocabulary. The bottle states - Dark, Rich Berry with a hint of Pepper. I say- a Winner for ten bucks.
I'll be taking it to our Chili and Poker party tonight .
Have a great weekend
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Whaduh YOU know about a hamburger?
I finally made it into Five Guys Burgers last week. I had a dinner date with my friend Anna. It's in Rookwood Plaza and I swear my heart skips a beat when my car steers into one of the parking lots. If you are not familiar with Rookwood, it's your typical Pedestrian Mall with a decent selection of retail clothing stores and restaurants, as well as a Whole Foods. It's my Playground.
The set up at Five Guys is: walk in, place your order at the counter and find a seat. They call your recepit number when your " order is up." I chose a quarter pound patty.I avoid traditional accrouments, the cheese and shrooms and peppers, etc.They do make it taste yummy, but I like to taste the beef . I was there lookin' for the beef. I found it! Greasy, but not drippy or super fatty meat. Tatsy bun and fresh tomato and lettuce. Anna and I split an order of Fresh Cut french fries . They reminded me of Wendy's fries. They were hot, fresh and salty- can't go wrong. If you like your fountain bevs, they had two machines and just about any refreshment you could want. It's a straight-forward , you - know -what you're going to get establishment.
Five Guys...hmm...wonder what Five Women could have done...
PEACE and Happy Humping Day
The set up at Five Guys is: walk in, place your order at the counter and find a seat. They call your recepit number when your " order is up." I chose a quarter pound patty.I avoid traditional accrouments, the cheese and shrooms and peppers, etc.They do make it taste yummy, but I like to taste the beef . I was there lookin' for the beef. I found it! Greasy, but not drippy or super fatty meat. Tatsy bun and fresh tomato and lettuce. Anna and I split an order of Fresh Cut french fries . They reminded me of Wendy's fries. They were hot, fresh and salty- can't go wrong. If you like your fountain bevs, they had two machines and just about any refreshment you could want. It's a straight-forward , you - know -what you're going to get establishment.
Five Guys...hmm...wonder what Five Women could have done...
PEACE and Happy Humping Day
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Hand Soap, Demeter, Murad
Happy Sunday.
That was dumb. Sundays are not happy , They have always been sort of a sad day for me. My guess would be because it's on the verge of a new work week , one by the way, I can't wait til it's over. Actually FF to end of October and I'd be very happy.
I am sort of picky about my hand soaps, actually all of my cleansers, anything that foams, and this is because lots of Consumer products contain a foaming agent called Sodium Laureth Sulfate ( there are variations in the chemical name ) just know that sulfates are bad news. They dry out the skin, they strip color from your hair and unless you use an SLS free toothpaste , it gives people canker sores. I stopped using SLS toothpaste when I met Bob. Most of his pastes are SLS free, I rarely get one anymore. So drop the Jergens, Soft Soaps, etc. This goes for all body washed. I like Jason and Kiss My Face for my body wash . They smell so yummy and the older we get, the drier our skin becomes. Don't help it by using icky sulfate foaming agents. Go check your shampoo bottles and various soap bottles in your house. It's in everything.
If you know me well, you know I love my perfume. Don't leave the house without a spray and yes, I use it at home in the evening to! I recently scored two discounted bottles of Demeter. Great brand. I had forgotten about it! They are All Natural- so this is a perk , and the scents are not heavy.They reseble a body spray like oyu would buy somewhere like V.S. If you don't wear perfume but want to try, this is a fantastic starter. I have Lilac and Rose. I think they retail at around $25 a bottle. BTW, if you are a regular wearer, my newest bottle is Betsy Johnson . I love it. Floral with amber and musk notes. Versatile for day or night. The bottle is also sweet!! Check it out on Instagram! username -heavenly hills .
Murad. You all have heard of the brand. I don't have a lot of experience with it. They do make a great zit gel. I used that whole tube. I used to work somewhere that gave me a Murad discount. I have however just tried the Pomegranate Exfoliating Mask. It was a large sample so I got 3 masks from it. Let's see...it's not clay or grainy, it's a gel and it dries clear. I can't say that my skin looks different afterward, but it is very soft to the touch! To date the Ultimate in Exfoliating Masks is Somerville Exfolicate. The stuff is killer!!!
Have a good Monday. Cheers
That was dumb. Sundays are not happy , They have always been sort of a sad day for me. My guess would be because it's on the verge of a new work week , one by the way, I can't wait til it's over. Actually FF to end of October and I'd be very happy.
I am sort of picky about my hand soaps, actually all of my cleansers, anything that foams, and this is because lots of Consumer products contain a foaming agent called Sodium Laureth Sulfate ( there are variations in the chemical name ) just know that sulfates are bad news. They dry out the skin, they strip color from your hair and unless you use an SLS free toothpaste , it gives people canker sores. I stopped using SLS toothpaste when I met Bob. Most of his pastes are SLS free, I rarely get one anymore. So drop the Jergens, Soft Soaps, etc. This goes for all body washed. I like Jason and Kiss My Face for my body wash . They smell so yummy and the older we get, the drier our skin becomes. Don't help it by using icky sulfate foaming agents. Go check your shampoo bottles and various soap bottles in your house. It's in everything.
If you know me well, you know I love my perfume. Don't leave the house without a spray and yes, I use it at home in the evening to! I recently scored two discounted bottles of Demeter. Great brand. I had forgotten about it! They are All Natural- so this is a perk , and the scents are not heavy.They reseble a body spray like oyu would buy somewhere like V.S. If you don't wear perfume but want to try, this is a fantastic starter. I have Lilac and Rose. I think they retail at around $25 a bottle. BTW, if you are a regular wearer, my newest bottle is Betsy Johnson . I love it. Floral with amber and musk notes. Versatile for day or night. The bottle is also sweet!! Check it out on Instagram! username -heavenly hills .
Murad. You all have heard of the brand. I don't have a lot of experience with it. They do make a great zit gel. I used that whole tube. I used to work somewhere that gave me a Murad discount. I have however just tried the Pomegranate Exfoliating Mask. It was a large sample so I got 3 masks from it. Let's see...it's not clay or grainy, it's a gel and it dries clear. I can't say that my skin looks different afterward, but it is very soft to the touch! To date the Ultimate in Exfoliating Masks is Somerville Exfolicate. The stuff is killer!!!
Have a good Monday. Cheers
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Vinegar! Yes, smelly but...
I have heard in several places now that White, Distilled Vinegar is a good hair softener. I have tried it twice myself, and it really does make your hair feel silkier. The first time worked better than the second. I was siting in the bath tub on my first attempt. I washed my hair, wrung it out, then dumped that vinegar on it. I let it "soak in" for a couple of minutes and then rinsed. No conditoner needed.
I don't think I kept it on long enough the second time around.
I think vinegar has a stripping quality, that's why it makes a good household cleaner too. My conclusion is that it strips water minerals and build up from the hair strands.
Just remember to keep your head tilted back properly and squeeze your eyes shut tight!!
That's it!
I don't think I kept it on long enough the second time around.
I think vinegar has a stripping quality, that's why it makes a good household cleaner too. My conclusion is that it strips water minerals and build up from the hair strands.
Just remember to keep your head tilted back properly and squeeze your eyes shut tight!!
That's it!
Monday, October 1, 2012
Ulta Cosmetics Salon ,Lip Balm
Good Evening, I hope you had a nice weekend.
My Monday at work went by quickly. Then, it was off to Ulta to try out their Salon. I had a coupon for a cut and color. I wanted to get my hair back to it's natural color. Bye Bye golden highlights. Hello Elvira , with a Raven head 'o hair!! When it got to that uncomfortable, "OK I am not going to argue with my hairdresser" point, about whether or not it's my natural color, I just kept my mouth shut. Four hours ( yes FOUR ) later, I have shiny jet black hair, and a smooth , pore extracted face. While I processed I took advantage of the Special they had for Express Dermalogica Facials. That was the highpoint of my experience. I have had facials before but never extractions. It hurts, but it's worth the pain. The whole time she worked her magic, there was a fancy steam machine blowing moist warm air on my face. It opened my nasal passages too and proved to be a nice treat on this rainy Cincy evening. There are several facial types to choose from, the regular price is 20$ for 20 min., but now it's only 10$ . What a steal. All in all, it was a decent trip. Megan, the stylist said my color would fade, and the hair trim looks OK. I have a feeling I will be back to see Sheree, the Esthetician for another skin smoothing treatment. I can't believe the junk she pulled from my face. She showed me(!) Gross.
Lips. I know women who are more lip balm obsessed than I, but at bedtime, I need something thick and rejuvenating, and I tend to be hard core about it. I had been using Clinique Super Balm ( All Star!!) for years. After my last tube finished, I didn't buy another one. I ended up getting a Burts Bee's Super Gloss something or other. It didn't fit the bill. It's thin and slippery. I need that thick, moisturizing feeling. Envelope my lips in a thick gel type of feeling. I may have found a winner. Crabtree & Evelyn Lip Butter. It comes in a tube and I paid 9$ for it at a Gift shop. I chose citrus cream and honey. They also had mint and a dessert type of flavor.
The first four ingredients are = Shea Butter, Castor Oil, Lanolin and Bee's Wax.
It's thick and rich and so far it's done it's job. It also doesn't hurt that I am a sucker for pretty packaging. :)
It's going to rain again tomorrow, so get your SHINE on!
My Monday at work went by quickly. Then, it was off to Ulta to try out their Salon. I had a coupon for a cut and color. I wanted to get my hair back to it's natural color. Bye Bye golden highlights. Hello Elvira , with a Raven head 'o hair!! When it got to that uncomfortable, "OK I am not going to argue with my hairdresser" point, about whether or not it's my natural color, I just kept my mouth shut. Four hours ( yes FOUR ) later, I have shiny jet black hair, and a smooth , pore extracted face. While I processed I took advantage of the Special they had for Express Dermalogica Facials. That was the highpoint of my experience. I have had facials before but never extractions. It hurts, but it's worth the pain. The whole time she worked her magic, there was a fancy steam machine blowing moist warm air on my face. It opened my nasal passages too and proved to be a nice treat on this rainy Cincy evening. There are several facial types to choose from, the regular price is 20$ for 20 min., but now it's only 10$ . What a steal. All in all, it was a decent trip. Megan, the stylist said my color would fade, and the hair trim looks OK. I have a feeling I will be back to see Sheree, the Esthetician for another skin smoothing treatment. I can't believe the junk she pulled from my face. She showed me(!) Gross.
Lips. I know women who are more lip balm obsessed than I, but at bedtime, I need something thick and rejuvenating, and I tend to be hard core about it. I had been using Clinique Super Balm ( All Star!!) for years. After my last tube finished, I didn't buy another one. I ended up getting a Burts Bee's Super Gloss something or other. It didn't fit the bill. It's thin and slippery. I need that thick, moisturizing feeling. Envelope my lips in a thick gel type of feeling. I may have found a winner. Crabtree & Evelyn Lip Butter. It comes in a tube and I paid 9$ for it at a Gift shop. I chose citrus cream and honey. They also had mint and a dessert type of flavor.
The first four ingredients are = Shea Butter, Castor Oil, Lanolin and Bee's Wax.
It's thick and rich and so far it's done it's job. It also doesn't hurt that I am a sucker for pretty packaging. :)
It's going to rain again tomorrow, so get your SHINE on!
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Eye Shadow , Hair Gloss
Happy Hump Day....
Eyeshadow-it's come to be one of my favorite and most commonly used make-up products. One thing I have learned, you cannot buy cheap product. There just isn't pigment and quality ingredient. If you're lucky enough to get it from the applicator tip to your eyelid, well, that's about all you get. It barely shows up, and it seems like you have to swipe on fifty layers. I'm not talking Wet & Wild here, even the Cover Girls and Loreals tend to be lacking.
The two best brands I use are Dior and Victoria's Secret. They have rich, beautiful colors , glide on smoothly and the color shows up and stays! I doubt Dior goes on sale, but I did pick up my VS 4 color compact at the Semi-Annual for about 5 bucks. Try it out.
For those of you who blow dry or do any heat styling, I have just discovered a protective serum I really liked. Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil. It's not like all the other one's we have tried . The texture is light and it really does cut down on drying time and sooth down the cuticle. Another perk- it has U.V. protection in it. It's a winner for color-treated hair as well , or for those who don't want their ntural locks lightened by the rays.
Happy Shadowing!
Xo
Niki
Eyeshadow-it's come to be one of my favorite and most commonly used make-up products. One thing I have learned, you cannot buy cheap product. There just isn't pigment and quality ingredient. If you're lucky enough to get it from the applicator tip to your eyelid, well, that's about all you get. It barely shows up, and it seems like you have to swipe on fifty layers. I'm not talking Wet & Wild here, even the Cover Girls and Loreals tend to be lacking.
The two best brands I use are Dior and Victoria's Secret. They have rich, beautiful colors , glide on smoothly and the color shows up and stays! I doubt Dior goes on sale, but I did pick up my VS 4 color compact at the Semi-Annual for about 5 bucks. Try it out.
For those of you who blow dry or do any heat styling, I have just discovered a protective serum I really liked. Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil. It's not like all the other one's we have tried . The texture is light and it really does cut down on drying time and sooth down the cuticle. Another perk- it has U.V. protection in it. It's a winner for color-treated hair as well , or for those who don't want their ntural locks lightened by the rays.
Happy Shadowing!
Xo
Niki
Friday, September 21, 2012
Numero Uno! ( on this blog)
It feels good to be back! I can't remember when I last blogged, nor can I honestly recall the website no less, that I was using for it.
Things got hectic around the Holidays , we traveled to South Florida for vacation, then- I got sick . Really sick. After two doctor's offices and a month and -a half of being really ill and not knowing what my problem was, I learned I had Mono. yes, Mono at age 32. It was a result of work stress, self neglect and travel. They say the third time's the charm and I am so grateful for that third physician who took the time and initiative to test me for everything in the scope of "Major fatigue and mental malaise." I was put on Temporary disability from work. My first day back was one half days for a month. At my job, a half day (3.75 hours) is, log into computer, open Outlook, get your beverage, maybe refresh the lipstick ...you get the idea. You can't get a thing done in a half day. Hence, it was a rough and tough late winter and spring. The majority of four months I spent being sick and then slowly recovering.
I had a great summer. We took it easy and just truly tried to chilll outtttt. Lots of days spent at the pool, in the sun , under the umbrella,in the pool, grilling out in the Cabana, you catch my drift.We took our Annual weekend trip to Chicago. That was definitely the highlight. This is because we stayed at a hotel not only on Michigan Avenue , but it was The Drake , an Institution in the Windy City! We chose that hotel to be close to the beach. It was a Lake Michigan bathing suit kind of trip. We spent two beautiful days on one of The Great Lakes.I have to say laying there on the lounge chair , facing the Big Lake and glancing to your right at the skyscrapers hovering over you was cool! As always the water was chilly but none the less refreshing.
I felt re-connected with my roots , so it was really nice! I had not swam in Lake Michigan for six years. Anyway it's been a blessing to be forced to slow down. I have been able to shed some of my Go -Go ,high strung tendencies and take it day by day. I'm really enjoying life more!
Ok, so who has tried the much talked about laundry detergent pods, Tide Pods particularly? I had not heard of them until the clerk at CVS suggested I buy a bag. She just raved about them and her fresh smelling laundry. I was curious so I snatched a bag. They are literally pods, clear plastic things filled with detergent and what i think is a strip of softener and a color brightener. They are great! Pull one from the bag and toss it into the washer and that's it! No bottles, caps, measuring, or powder residue if you use the boxed product. Maybe the novelty will wear off but for now, I'm a little giddy when I see it's time to do a load :) It's also a nice change to have a zip-lock sort of bag of laundry sop, instead of a big jug to deal with. Try some and let me know what YOU think! I want to hear from you guys!
That's it for now. It's passed my bedtime.
Things got hectic around the Holidays , we traveled to South Florida for vacation, then- I got sick . Really sick. After two doctor's offices and a month and -a half of being really ill and not knowing what my problem was, I learned I had Mono. yes, Mono at age 32. It was a result of work stress, self neglect and travel. They say the third time's the charm and I am so grateful for that third physician who took the time and initiative to test me for everything in the scope of "Major fatigue and mental malaise." I was put on Temporary disability from work. My first day back was one half days for a month. At my job, a half day (3.75 hours) is, log into computer, open Outlook, get your beverage, maybe refresh the lipstick ...you get the idea. You can't get a thing done in a half day. Hence, it was a rough and tough late winter and spring. The majority of four months I spent being sick and then slowly recovering.
I had a great summer. We took it easy and just truly tried to chilll outtttt. Lots of days spent at the pool, in the sun , under the umbrella,in the pool, grilling out in the Cabana, you catch my drift.We took our Annual weekend trip to Chicago. That was definitely the highlight. This is because we stayed at a hotel not only on Michigan Avenue , but it was The Drake , an Institution in the Windy City! We chose that hotel to be close to the beach. It was a Lake Michigan bathing suit kind of trip. We spent two beautiful days on one of The Great Lakes.I have to say laying there on the lounge chair , facing the Big Lake and glancing to your right at the skyscrapers hovering over you was cool! As always the water was chilly but none the less refreshing.
I felt re-connected with my roots , so it was really nice! I had not swam in Lake Michigan for six years. Anyway it's been a blessing to be forced to slow down. I have been able to shed some of my Go -Go ,high strung tendencies and take it day by day. I'm really enjoying life more!
Ok, so who has tried the much talked about laundry detergent pods, Tide Pods particularly? I had not heard of them until the clerk at CVS suggested I buy a bag. She just raved about them and her fresh smelling laundry. I was curious so I snatched a bag. They are literally pods, clear plastic things filled with detergent and what i think is a strip of softener and a color brightener. They are great! Pull one from the bag and toss it into the washer and that's it! No bottles, caps, measuring, or powder residue if you use the boxed product. Maybe the novelty will wear off but for now, I'm a little giddy when I see it's time to do a load :) It's also a nice change to have a zip-lock sort of bag of laundry sop, instead of a big jug to deal with. Try some and let me know what YOU think! I want to hear from you guys!
That's it for now. It's passed my bedtime.
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