Fairest Of Them All

My Favorite Lipstick of the Moment - Prescriptives

2009-12-08T23:00:00.000-08:00

As I was perusing my massive lipstick collection the other day, I came across a tube of Prescriptives in "Rose" and put it on. Man, that is a good lipstick! Not only was the color ultra flattering, but it stayed on all day. I have about 9 tubes of Prescriptives that run the gamut from fuschia to coral to burgundy and pink, and I'm going to start using them. A lot of lipsticks are too creamy and they slide right off your lips or start feathering around the lipline. I have not experienced that at all with this lipstick and I've worn it almost every day for a week. They no longer carry the lipstick in the colors I have because they've renamed them all, so I can't really recommend any colors to you. That is kind of personal anyway. Have fun finding one that works for you!

SUPER SHOPPING SECRET #16

2009-12-07T17:11:00.000-08:00

Acrylic pendants $24
Shop for fun jewelry at www.alltherageonline.com. There is a wide variety of styles available, and while some of it may not be your taste, you should be able to find a good bit of things to your liking. They have many unique and creative pieces of costume jewelry. I wouldn't make any guarantees that any of this will last you a lifetime, but if you are looking for some affordable accessories that will add some character to your outfit, then this is the place to shop. Through January 1st, they are offering 50% off all orders $15 and over and free shipping for orders over $75. Here are a few things I found that I liked:

Kismet pendant $20
Stacked ring $6
Geode Necklace $36
Pearl drops $8
Chandelier earrings $21
They also have hand-painted jewelry, wood pieces, glass pieces, and the new fabric bib necklaces. You are able to return an item within 15 days of receipt if it is not to your liking. Check it out!

"Shooties" and other Ugly Shoe Trends

2009-12-01T19:39:00.000-08:00

Is it me, or have shoes gotten really ridiculous looking lately? Maybe I'm showing my age, but these new bootie shoes (or "shooties") are just not my thing. Especially now that they are being worn with dresses. You see them in all the fashion magazines, but this is one trend I will not be following. Here are a few examples of ugly shoes I found in last month's magazines:
I would call these "Stripper Shoes." I mean, who really wears these outside of a nightclub?
Victoria Beckham says these are her favorite shoes and she feels really sexy when she wears them. When I look at these shoes, all I can think of is Minnie Mouse. And what the heck is sexy about that?
Hayden Panetierre. What a beauty. But these shoes are probably the last thing I would have picked to wear with this soft pink dress. I guess I'm just not "with it."
Dalmation spotted "shooties" in the latest DKNY ad. I don't think it's necessary to say anything else here.

I would call these "bandage shoes." Not sexy. I think this outfit would have looked so much better with a different pair of shoes. What do you think?

Please post a comment and vote in my new poll at left. Thanks!

SUPER SHOPPING SECRET #15

2009-11-30T19:42:00.000-08:00

SUBSCRIBE! SUBSCRIBE! SUBSCRIBE!
This is my advice: Think of every single store you love to shop at, and every single restaurant you like to eat at and subscribe to their website. I can't tell you how much you will benefit from this! Today being "Cyber Monday" I got more offers in my inbox than I could possible shop in a day. Here are just some of today's offers:

Ann Taylor - 40% off entire purchase plus free shipping on $100 or more.
Cole Haan - 40% off a single full-priced item or 30% off all sale items plus free shipping & returns.
Smashbox.com - 20% off your entire order plus free shipping.
Ralph Lauren - 25% off your entire purchase
Benefitcosmetics.com - Free Shipping plus free samples with every order.
Bobbibrown.com - 20% off your order plus free shipping on $65 or more plus free gift wrap.
Piperlime - 20% off and free shipping.
Ann Taylor Loft - 30% off entire order plus free shipping on $100 or more.
Banana Republic - 20% off
Old Navy - 20% off plus free shipping on any purchase
Anne Klein - 30% off sale merchandise and regular priced shoes plus free shipping
Gap - 20% off plus free shipping on any purchase
Naturalizer - 20% off plus free shipping
Kate Spade - %25% off plus free shipping
Henri Bendel - 30% off plus free shipping
Bath & Body Works - 25% off entire order

And if you subscribe, you are better apprised of sweepstakes and other contests you can enter. I highly recommend doing this. I won a $500 shopping spree from Bluefly and a $100 Express gift card from Lucky Magazine. I also receive many coupons and free offers on my birthday. Every year I get a $20 gift card from Pappa's Steakhouse, and last year I received a free ice cream from Ben & Jerrys, a free dessert at Lubys, and a free beauty product at Ulta among other things.

So get on that computer and start subscribing!!!

SUPER SHOPPING SECRET #14

2009-11-23T19:54:00.000-08:00

This week's Super Shopping Secret is www.myperfectsale.com. This site shops for you, finding all the brands you love at the stores and websites you love. They consolidate all the best deals on designer apparel and accessories and send them right to your e-mail address. My Perfect Sale takes its cues from you. You select your favorite designers from a list of 100's. They shop 100's of stores and websites and send you literally 1000's of sale items to peruse. Of course the more designers you choose, the more sale items they will e-mail you. Almost one million people use this site to shop. I love it, but to be honest I hardly ever have time to look at all the wonderful things on my personal sale e-mail because it is so comprehensive. They shop stores like Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Macys, as well as smaller, lesser known shops. They also shop sites like YOOX, Zappos, and Overstock. They offer everything from Michael Kors, Juicy Couture and Kate Spade to Dior, Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana and Prada. Once you open your sale of the day, you may sort your items by price, by designer, by store or even by the percentage off. Have fun shopping!

Repurposing Your Altoids Tins

2009-11-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

I came across this great idea for repurposing Altoids tins in "Girlfriend Getaways" magazine. I'm a major fan and consumer on Altoids, as many people are. (Cinnamon is my favorite!) Here are just a few ways you can use these little tins for storage. Great idea for when you are traveling or just for everyday! And this can be your small contribution to "going green!

1. Jewelry - necklaces that don't tangle too easily or multiple pairs of earrings. Great idea for travelers.

2. Aspirin - Instead of paying an inflated price for the travel size bottles, just pour some in a tin.

3. Hair Accessories - Hair bands, bobby pins, small barretts or clips. I'm always digging for them in my purse.

4. Sewing kit - buttons, thread, needle, safety pins

5. Ipod earphones

6. Almonds. Tis is my favorite idea. I read that an Altoid tin holds exactly a single serving of almonds. Great healthy snack when you're on the go.

Other things you could store in the tins are bandaids, throat lozenges, and loose change (if you can stand the noise!) The possibilities are endless! If you think of something not included on this list, please post a comment so we can all share!

Great Gifts from Bobbi Brown & Benefit!

2009-11-18T11:01:00.000-08:00

Continuing with our Christmas shopping theme, each of these items are $40 or less.
1. Bobbi Brown Velvet Plum Eye Palette - $40. This is one of Bobbi Brown's "greatest hits." Touted as "the perfect day-to-night eye palette." Beautiful.
2. Bobbi Brown Tube Tint Trio - $28. Includes 3 full size lip tints that are supposed to flatter all complexions. Great stocking stuffer!
3. Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss Trio - $40. A set of 3 gorgeous glosses. What more could a girl want?
4. Bobbi Brown Basics Eye Palette - $40. A slim compact with 4 eyeshadows "that flatter all complexions."5. Bobbi Brown Basics Lip Palette - $40. Beautiful color palette that once again claims to be "universally flattering."
6. Benefit Realness of Concealness - $32. Benefit's top selling concealers and enhancers in miniature. Great for travelers. Includes many of the products Benefit is famous for: Ooh la Lift, Lip Plump, High Beam, Lemon Aid, and Boi-ing.
7. Benefit Celebutante - $34. A complete makeup kit for eyes, lips & cheeks. Includes a few of the items Benefit is famous for like Benetint, High Beam, and Dallas. A great value!
8. Benefit Big Beautiful Eyes Palette - $32. Love this natural color palette!

Shop Bobbi Brown cosmetics at www.bobbibrown.com. They are currently offering free gift wrap and I think you get free shipping with a minimum purchase. Also shop Benefit at www.benefitcosmetics.com.

Great Christmas Gifts for Product Junkies!

2009-11-17T10:23:00.000-08:00

I recently received my Sephora Holiday Catalog in the mail. I picked out 10 of my favorite things that I thought would make great gifts for product junkies like me. All of these items are $40 or less.
1. Smashbox Wish for the Perfect Pout - $29. A lot of brands are offering lipgloss sets, but I picked a couple that I thought had the best colors. This was one of them. It contains 2 full size and 4 travel size glosses.
2. Sephora Favorites Radiant Skin Regimen Skincare Deluxe Sampler - $38. This set contains great skincare samples from Bliss, Cosmedicine, Perricone, DDF, Kinerase, Murad, Philosophy, Clinique, and Peter Thomas Roth.
3. Philosophy Classic Cookbook - $35. Contains six 2oz bottles of Shampoo/Shower Gel/Bubble Bath. The food inspired scents are : Gingerbread, Pumpkin Spice, Warm Pear Cobbler, Cinnamon Buns, Red Velvet Cake, and Hot Cocoa. Yum!
4. Philosophy The Recipe Box - $18. Contains two 6oz bottles of Shampoo/Shower Gel/Bubble Bath. Scents are Red Velvet Cake and Sweet Creamy Frosting. Comes with actual recipe cards for Red Velvet Cake and Frosting. What a great gift idea!
5. Philosophy Bake Shop - $30. Contains two 4oz bottles of Shampoo/Shower Gel/Bubble Bath in Raspberry Mousse & Pink Frosted Layer Cake. Also includes a 2 oz tube of Sweet Creamy Frosting Ultra Rich Body Lotion and a Raspberry Mousse Lip Shine. Okay, so I included 3 Philosophy items on my list. I love to smell like delicious food and the boxes these items come in are extremely cute! No wrapping required!
6. Sephora Favorites LashStash Mascara Deluxe Sampler - $39. Includes 10 mascara samples from Hourglass, Urban Decay, Korres, Benefit, Smashbox, Laura Mercier, Fresh, Sephora, Tarte, and Cargo.
7. Sephora Favorites My First Makeup Kit - $32. Includes 9 product samples from Korres, Givenchy, Smashbox, Lorac, Sephora, and Tarte. Items include lip butter, lip gloss, bronzer, eye shadow, nail polish, cheek stain, and mascara.
8. Lorac Couture Shine Gloss Collection - $22.50. Includes 5 high gloss miniatures that contain light-reflecting mother-of-pearl.
9. Sephora Favorites Lip Service Deluxe Sampler - $38. Includes 8 lip products from Duwop, Smashbox, Sephora, NARS, Korres, CARGO, Tarte, and Laura Mercier. This is a great gift for lipstick lovers like me!
10. Laura Mercier Almond Coconut Milk Duo - $40. Great for women who love bath products! Includes a 6oz jar of Honey Bath and a 6 oz jar of Souffle Body Creme. Laura Mercier also has a Creme Brulee version of this duo for the same price.

SUPER SHOPPING SECRET #13

2009-11-16T09:48:00.001-08:00

This week's Super Shopping Secret is www.beyondtherack.com. This is another private shopping club that offers up to 70% off retail. They are very similar to www.hautelook.com and www.ruelala.com. You can sign up for free which will give you access to the sales. Today they have Prada accessories and Dolce & Gabbana on sale among other things. Tomorrow one of the sales will be on Burberry. Have fun shopping!

Microdermabrasion - Key word: Abrasion

2009-11-12T17:21:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are curious about microdermabrasion, I thought I would share my experience. Microdermabrasion is an exfoliation procedure that is achieved by spraying microcrystals across the surface of the skin. It is supposed to leave the skin glowing, improve the texture of coarse skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and large pores. I went because a friend of mine had it done and raved about it. I decided to give it a try. I went to a well known spa in the area for numerous visits. Each time, all of my makeup was removed and a headband was put on my hair to keep it out of the way. The crystals shoot out of a wand or pen-like device at very high power. I was surprised at how uncomfortable it was. It felt like someone was scratching the skin off my face! Am I bleeding? Is it supposed to feel like this? I was assured that everything was okay. The technician said some clients compare the feeling to being licked by a cat's tongue. Really? It felt more like someone was rubbing my face on a cheese grater! I bore through it and held out hope I would go home with a smooth, glowing complexion. Well, the glow eluded me. I went home looking, and feeling, like I had a sunburn. Next day - sunburn effect still there. People at the office are looking at me funny. The next day, somewhat back to normal. I think I went once every 2 weeks for about 5 appointments. The bad thing was that with each appointment she increased the pressure of the spray. My face started to break out in between visits and eventually started weeping from too much abrasion. I told the technician and she didn't seem too concerned. I quit going. As I researched this topic on the internet for this blog article I read on spas.about.com: "Microdermabrasion is not recommended for sensitive skin, skin that easily reddens, or skin with acne breakouts." Well, hello! I meet all three of those criteria! So needless to say, I will not be going back for microdermabrasion treatments and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone with sensitive skin or thin skin. I know there are a lot of people out there who have had great experiences with microdermabrasion, but it is definitely not for everybody.

Lunch Hour Shopping

2009-11-11T17:29:00.001-08:00

So the other day I wore some shoes to work that I thought would be comfy but turned out not to be comfy at all. So on my lunch hour I went on a quick search for some comfy flats. The only shoe store in the vicinity was a Shoe Carnival. So I went in and found these cute black Eurosoft flats and since they were having a BOGO sale I bought a pair in muted gold too. Shoe emergency solved, I ran over to Icing in search of some earrings which I didn't find, but I did find this cute hair clip which also has a pin on the back so you can wear it as an accessory on a jacket. I love it. It's got a few feather mixed in with the lace rose. Very pretty.

Bluefly 30 Bags in 30 Days

2009-11-10T05:55:00.001-08:00

SUPER SHOPPING SECRET #12

2009-11-09T10:54:00.000-08:00

Today's blog article will be short and sweet but very useful. The following websites provide you with current discount codes for your favorite shopping websites and retail stores:
www.couponshack.com
www.retailmenot.com
www.dealtaker.com
www.currentcodes.com
Check these out. They are fairly easy to use. Just enter the name of the store you are hoping to find discounts for, or use their drop-down menus to find your favorite stores. This will take you to a page that will provide you with the current discounts codes that will give you percentages off your purchase, or free shipping, etc. Great tool for serious shoppers! They have listings for everything from Ann Taylor to Sephora.

P.S. - www.hautelook.com is having a sale on Shu Uemura today. Limited selection but there are some great lipsticks and eyeshadows available, as well as a mini eyelash curler. Shu Uemura's eyelash curler has been rated #1 year after year. Here's your chance to try it at a discount!

Ralph Lauren's Fall Collection

2009-11-04T16:36:00.000-08:00

How can you not love Ralph Lauren's Fall advertising campaign? I mean, how stunning is this picture? When I saw this ad, I just had to go online and see what other delicacies Mr. Lauren had to offer. Ralph Lauren's Fall collection is equestrian chic of course, with a little country and a little preppy thrown into the mix. His clothes are very versatile. They can be dressy or casual. I love all the leather in this collection. There are these stunning black leather pants featured in the ad, but there are also leather accents on sweaters and riding pants that just really add such a richness to the collection. I also love the color combinations of red and black and camel and brown. There are some great plaid shirts in this collection too. And can we talk about the Ricky bag? I mean, how fabulous is this thing? The one pictured here is almost $17,000! There are other Ricky bags in the low $3,000s but nevertheless, I won't be owning one in my lifetime. In the words of Gwen Stefani: "If I were a rich girl, na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na."

My Favorite Shampoo

2009-11-03T16:53:00.000-08:00

My favorite shampoo of the moment is Organix Nourishing Coconut Milk Shampoo. I picked this up primarily because I love the smell of coconut, but I had also read about this shampoo in Lucky magazine where a fellow coconut lover raved about its true coconut scent. I am always in need of a very nourishing shampoo, and this one includes organic coconut milk, whipped egg white proteins and coconut oils. It is safe for color treated hair and is sulfate and paraben free. The product is not tested on animals and the bottle it comes in is eco-friendly. I love this shampoo! I have been using it in conjunction with Neutrogena Triple Moisture Daily Deep Conditioner which I wrote about in a previous blog. In the last 8 weeks, I could tell that I had a lot less damage to my ends in between haircuts. That is enough reason in itself to keep me coming back for more. The best news of all is that you can purchase it at Walmart for less than $6 a bottle! I have spent 3 times that much on salon shampoos that didn't work nearly as well. Now I'm curious about the other Organix formulas. They have Pomegranate, Shea Butter, and other formulas that sound very nourishing, as well as conditioner and hair styling products.

What is your favorite shampoo?

SUPER SHOPPING SECRET #11

2009-11-02T09:59:00.000-08:00

This week's Super Shopping Secret is http://www.covet.com/. I just found this site last week and I think it's a lot of fun. When you go to the site they will give you a series of 2 celeb fashion photos side by side. You pick the one you like best from each set. When you are done they will give you the results of your style analysis based on the choices you made. I was absolutely amazed that they hit the nail right on the head with me. My main style is "Classic Preppy" with a mix of Classic Minimalist and Classic Professional. Once they have identified your style, then they will show a list of stores you probably shop at. My best stores are Ann Taylor, Ellen Tracy, J. Crew and Eddie Bauer. Again, mine were right on the money. Then they let you choose via photos what kind of colors you like and don't like, what kind of shoes you like and don't like, what kind of clothes, etc. Based on all this data they will send you a daily e-mail of items on sale that fit your criteria. Below each sale item in your e-mail is a red heart or a broken heart. If you hate something they put in your e-mail, then click on the broken heart. If you love it, click on the red heart. This helps the site continue to tailor your e-mails to fit your preferences. This site is reminiscent of http://www.shopittome.com/ which was a previous Super Shopping Secret. The difference is that covet.com is more personal. While shopittome.com lets you choose the brands you like and sends you daily e-mails, they do not do a style analysis to personalize those items. Please check out this site and have fun! Let me know your thoughts. It would be fun if you would put in the comments section what your style turned out to be!

ORGANIZING JEWELRY

2009-10-29T16:07:00.000-07:00

I started running out of room to store my jewelry, which sent me on a problem-solving quest and led me to write about it. This is my jewelry cabinet. The wings on the side open up to allow me to hang my necklaces, but there are only 8 hooks total which required me to hang multiple necklaces on each hook, which in turn resulted in monstrous tangles. I don't know about you, but when I'm getting ready in the morning, I'm always running out the door at the last minute and I don't have time to untangle necklaces! So I told my husband to take to The Container Store so I could find something that best suited my needs. I ended up going with a basic tie rack which he installed on the back of my closet door. I was able to hang 25 necklaces on it without having to double, triple and quadruple stack them. What a relief! I think this is going to work out quite nicely! I decided to use the tie rack to hang my large costume jewelry so I can still use my jewelry cabinet for my more dainty necklaces. I keep my earrings on a shelf in these divided trays. One tray is for silver, the other for gold. It just helps keep things moving quickly in the morning. I also keep my scarves folded on a shelf in my jewelry cabinet. They are just large fabric necklaces after all!

WINTER CLEANSING & FOUNDATION ROUTINE

2009-10-28T19:08:00.000-07:00

Now that the weather is getting a little colder and the wind is starting to blow, it is time to change your cleansing and foundation routine to protect your skin. While I typically use mild products because of a sensitive, fair complexion, I go even milder with my cleanser and start using a moisturizer every day. I usually use Clinique Liquid Facial Soap in Mild. But I've just switched over to Eucerin Sensitive Skin Gentle Hydrating Cleanser. At night, I cleanse then use my Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2 and go to bed. In the morning I cleanse, use the Clarifying Lotion then use a little Clinique Moisture Surge before I apply my foundation. I let it sink in a little first.

As far as foundation goes, everyone knows I love my discontinued Loreal Quickstick and will go to the ends of the earth to find it online. But for Winter, I'm switching to a combo of Lorac Oil Free Neutralizer and Clinique Almost Makeup Teint Naturel in Parfait. The Neutralizer is VERY light and is not ideal to wear alone unless you are extremely, and I mean extremely pale. It is meant to cancel out any redness on your face and even out your skin. When you combine it with another liquid foundation it comes out really well. This combo gives a pretty flawless and luminescent look. With the Quickstick, I use a foundation brush to blend, but I've found with this liquid combination that a sponge works a lot better.

CHICAGO STYLE

2009-10-27T18:12:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a trip to Chicago last Saturday. As a matter of fact, I still haven't unpacked. I think I'm in denial because I didn't want to leave in the first place. What a beautiful city. I love it so much I've decided I want to move there! Everyone says, "You wouldn't last one Winter." Well, being from Texas, they're probably right. But I can dream.

So I thought I would write a little bit about a few trends I noticed while I was there.

#1 - Urban Style Flat Black Knee High Boots. I must have seen these a million times! These are Naturalizer's "Jadis" boot. I saw this or some variation thereof all over the place. It makes sense in a large city where you have to do a lot of walking. They are very comfortable, have a very urban style and were worn most often with jeans tucked in them. I love these!

#2 - Wellies/Rubber Boots/Rain Boots. These are all the rage now. You can find them in a multitude of patterns and colors. In Chicago, I only saw them in black. Again, comfortable yet stylish and style born out of necessity. The weather report said it had rained 27 out of the last 32 days! So although these are a current fashion trend, they are very functional. These are by Hunter.#3 - Scarves. Scarves again are a definite necessity in such a cold climate. In Chicago I mostly saw large patterns like this in neutral colors. This one is by Juicy Couture.

#4 - North Face Outerwear. I saw a girl in Starbucks wearing this coat in particular. And while it looks like something an Eskimo might wear, it looked really great on her. She wore it with jeans tucked into boots similar to the ones I posted above and with a scarf. I don't think her coat had a hood or else it was down. Great look for someone tall and slim. Everyone else runs the risk of looking like the Michelin Man. Unfortunately, I could never wear this in Texas without dying of heat stroke!

SUPER SHOPPING SECRET #10 - People Style Watch Magazine

2009-10-26T15:57:00.001-07:00

This week's Super Shopping Secret is People Stylewatch Magazine. This is my absolute favorite shopping magazine! While the outfits featured in Lucky Magazine tend to be a little more young and edgy ala Mary Kate Olsen, the clothes in Stylewatch tend to be more polished and sophisticated. I love that every single item is labeled as to the cost and where it may be purchased. They do not have as many giveaways as Lucky Magazine does, but they do have a solid page full as well as a solid page of discount offers and a few sweepstakes you can enter here and there.

This month's issue featured articles on "Need to Know Websites" - many of which I had posted on my blog in the past as Super Shopping Secrets. They also feature beauty bargains and styling tips. And I love the section where they show you how to do popular celebrity looks for less. I think you will love this magazine. It is very useful to someone who is a serious shopper but wants to shop smart. Individual issues are $3.99, but I think you can get a subscription for $1.99 per issue.

UNDER EYE CIRCLES

2009-10-22T06:30:00.000-07:00

A couple of people have asked me about under-eye circles so I thought it was finally time to address it. I did some internet research and this is what I found. A holistic approach would recommend 3 servings of cruciferous vegetables per week. One site I came across recommended encorporating cruciferous veggies daily. So girls, start eating your salads! Here are some of the specific veggies that were recommended, preferably raw of course: cabbage, spinach, leafy greens, and broccoli. Also recommended were avocado, kiwi, oranges, and grapefruit. The key vitamin I kept coming across was vitamin K. Other vitamins recommended were C, B, E, A, Lutein, Betacartene, Zinc and Fish Oil. Vitamins C & E were also recommended topically.

The product I've probably heard most about for undereye circles is Hylexin. Unfortuntately a small tube is $95 at Sephora. But if you read the reviews, people rave about it. People also rave about StriVectin-SD which started out as a stretch mark cream until people discovered that it also worked miracles in the way of wrinkles and undereye circles. StriVectin-SD Eye Cream is $59 at Sephora. The good news is that a church friend of mine found a copycat version at Walgreens called ProVectin Plus. It is an "Advanced Eye Cream for deep wrinkles and dark circles." An employee at Walgreens actually recommended it to her and it costs only $19.99. I've tried it and I have to say that while I don't suffer terribly from under-eye circles I could definitely tell a difference after just one night just as the product claims. The other good news is that it is Hypoallergenic and fragrance free. If you try it, let me know how it worked out for you.

NYX

2009-10-21T06:30:00.000-07:00

I love this lipstick! I had never purchased NYX before, but on my last Ulta excursion I picked up this perfect pink lipstick. It's called Tea Rose #628. What I love about it is that it isn't too pale and it isn't too garish. It's just the perfect soft light rose color. It looks great with a smoky or strong eye or with a daytime makeup. The gloss is great too. It's a nice frosty pink that's pretty enough to be worn by itself. The color is called "French Kiss." And the best part of all is that it's cheap!

Disclaimer: Please note that I purchased this lipstick prior to my declaration of a lipstick purchasing strike; therefore this purchase may not be held against me. :)

EMERGENCY DESK SUPPLIES!

2009-10-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share with everyone what I keep in my desk at work in the way of personal emergency supplies. I've written before about my little nail polish remover towelettes. Those are a must. I actually used one at work about a week ago. I keep nail clippers and a finger nail file in case of snags or broken nails. I keep cough drops just in case of a dry, scratchy or sore throat. I would keep aspirin, but my office keeps that stocked in a medicine drawer along with antacids, etc. I keep extra napkins in my drawer in case of spills or eating lunch at my desk. I also keep a Tide-to-Go Pen or Shout Wipes in case I spill something on my clothes. One time I spilled about half of a Starbucks Mocha all over my khaki pants. Out came the Tide To Go pen and about half an hour later when it all dried you couldn't even tell I had spilled anything. I was sold. And yes, I do keep chocolate in my desk in case of a chocolate emergency! Those are really serious!!! I also keep a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. Last week I had a dentist appointment after work and when I pulled out my dental supplies it kind of inspired me to share this info with you. So now I would like to know: What you keep in your desk at work?

SUPER SHOPPING SECRET #9

2009-10-19T06:30:00.000-07:00

This week's Super Shopping Secret is http://www.sparklesforever.com/. Sparkles Forever offers all kinds of costume jewelry, many of which are copies of looks that have appeared in movies and celebrity magazine shoots. You can choose from categories like, Bridal, Celebrity Chic, Movies & TV, Red Carpet, Birthstones, and Designer Inspired. Their Designer Inspired jewelry features pieces that resemble Van Cleef, Tiffany, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier just to name a few. Most of their jewelry is 925 Sterling Silver or Sterling with 14 kt gold plate. I've personally ordered several necklaces which I've posted pics of, but they also offer rings, bracelets, earrings and more. I have been very pleased with the quality of the items I've received. Again, I recommend subscribing to their site, and they will send you special offers periodically.

These are all the necklaces I've ordered from Sparkles Forever.

The leaf necklace at left is a copy of the one Jennifer Aniston wore in "The Break Up." The other necklace is reminiscent of a Luis Vuitton logo.

The wishbone necklace at left is a copy of the one Jennifer Aniston wore in the movie "He's Just Not That Into You."

More Fall Fashions

2009-10-15T18:15:00.000-07:00

I love, love, love Ann Taylor's Fall collection. I've posted some pics. You can see more on their website at http://www.anntaylor.com/. If you subscribe they will send you special offers pretty much weekly!

FALL FASHIONS

2009-10-14T18:30:00.000-07:00

As mentioned before, Fall is my favorite season of the year. Not only do I love the weather, I love the clothes too! So I've been perusing the magazines and web-sites and I'm very excited about some of the collections I've seen. Today I thought I would post some pics from one of my favorites this year - Donna Karan. You can get a better look on her website: http://www.donnakaran.com/. You can tell these looks are really 80's inspired by the strong shapes and shoulders. I even noticed a stick pin in one of these photos. Those were the days...

Welcoming Fall

2009-10-13T16:09:00.000-07:00

Today I'm going to get off the beaten path a bit. I know this is a beauty blog, but I am so excited about Fall that I just couldn't wait to decorate the house and yard with scarecrows, pumpkins, mums, and hay and have some people over so we could sit outdoors and eat and chat. You have to understand that just a week ago we had a heat index of 105 to 107 with a plague of mosquitoes, so we are welcoming Fall in a big way! Anyhoo, I thought I would post some pics of our Fall decor, our little get together and the little desserts I made.

The front yard:

The front porch:My little Fall fairy...Pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere...My cousins Lisa and Lee Ann. We snacked on baked brie, cheese, crackers, summer sausage, fruit, and olives then settled down to Bible study.Little pumpkin carrot cakes with cream cheese frosting for dessert. I got the idea online or in a magazine. Can't remember where I saw it. You could make them with a pumpkin bread or banana bread recipe also. I think in the photo I saw they used tootsie rolls for the stems. I used caramel candy corn I found at Walmart. The were orange and brown so the colors were perfect.This is the Nordic Ware pan I used to make the little pumpkin cakes. I bought it at Walmart.I had so much batter left over that I made mini cupcakes and topped them with caramel candy corns. I made about 24 mini cupcakes and 3 regular sized cupcakes. My husband took them to the fire station the next day.

Happy Fall Y'all!!!

Smashbox Sale!

2009-10-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give everyone a heads up that www.hautelook.com has a limited selection of Smashbox cosmetics on sale for 50% off today. I think the sale extends through tomorrow, but stock is limited. Check it out...

SUPER SHOPPING SECRET #8

2009-10-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

This week's Super Shopping Secret is http://www.overstock.com/. I'm sure you have heard of overstock.com. They have commercials on TV that mostly promote the availability of electronics and jewelry on their site. Overstock also has great clothing and accessories. They carry great designer labels like Anne Klein, BCBG, Betsey Johnson, Calvin Klein, DKNY, IZOD, Jones New York, Liz Claiborne, London Fog, MICHAEL by Michael Kors, and Tahari. Some of their most unique and pretty things are by labels you may have never heard of. This is my favorite place to shop for cute tops. I posted a photo of some of my favorites that I've purchased from their site. Items are returnable and one of the best things is that the cost of shipping for your entire order is only $2.95!

Rock & Republic Haul

2009-10-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

This is my Rock & Republic cosmetic haul. I purchased all of these items from http://www.hautelook.com/ which was one of my super shopping secrets. I got everything at 40% off. I had never heard of Rock & Republic cosmetics, but when I saw all the beautiful colors I fell in love with them. When my order came in I was not disappointed at all. This is the happiest I've been with a cosmetics purchase in a long time.

First of all, the packaging was so luxurious. All the items come in beautiful shiny black boxes. Then when you open them up, the compacts that contain the eyeshadows and blushes are so beautiful and very heavy. They all contain mirrors. I was surprised at how large the blushes were. They are absolutely huge so you get a lot of product for your money. The glosses are also very large. And one of the things I love most about the glosses are that they are very pigmented. Many glosses are so sheer that when you put them on you lose the color completely. These may be used in lieu of lipstick. The eyeshadow colors are top left to right: Chain Link, Spy, and Asphalt
Middle left to right: Tempting, Exile, and Affair
Bottom left to right: Nailed, Snakeskin, and Diffused Blush colors left to right are: Tease (a plum pink), Spank (pink), and Call Me (peach)
Lip Gloss colors left to right are: Mistress and Sexy Beast.
This is my favorite color combo right now. Blush: Tease (plum pink). Eyeshadow combo left to right: Asphalt which is a matte charcoal color for the lower lid to the crease, Tempting which is a beautiful smoky purple for just above the crease, and Chain Link which is a very light and sheer silver for the brow bone. I switch out my lip gloss because both of these go really well. The one on top is Sexy Beast which is a plum color. The bottom one is Mistress which is more of a neutral color. Both gorgeous!

You may purchase their cosmetics, clothing and accessories on their website at http://www.rockandrepublic.com/ but they also sell their cosmetics at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdales. They are pricey which is why it pays to subscribe to their website so they can send you offers and to sign up for other designer discount websites I've mentioned like Hautelook, RueLaLa, and more.

DISAPPOINTING PRODUCTS

2009-10-07T21:42:00.000-07:00

I thought I would give you a list of things I've tried that I didn't like. Of course this is my personal opinion based on my personal experience. So here it goes...

1. NARS blush in Orgasm. I can't tell you how many times I have read that this blush is universally flattering. Well, guess what? It's not. Too orangey and sparkly for me.

2. Stila eyeshadow in Kitten. Ditto above. Year after year this eyeshadow color pops up in magazine articles. I tried it. Twice. Returned it both times. Too sheer and sparkly and gold. Did not compliment my fair skin or my age.

3. Make Up Forever's HD (High Definition) Foundation. Wasn't impressed at all with this.

4. Perfectly Amazing Concealer. This is touted at one of the best concealers out there. I don't agree. Returned it.

5. Covergirl Outlast Lipstain. This is like using a marker to color your lips. I like the idea, but it didn't wear well at all.

6. Dermadoctor skincare line. I bought it for my sensitive skin. Ended up returning it.

7. Bumpits. This is supposed to give your hair that fullness at the crown like a 60s hairdo. Well, I followed the directions to the letter, but no matter what I did you could see the bumpit through my hair. I have a cousin that also tried it and had the same problem. It was also returned.

Do you have any products that disappointed you? Did you try some of the items I mentioned above and have a different experience? I would love to hear from you...

LASH STATS

2009-10-06T15:38:00.000-07:00

I came across some interesting statistics in the October issue of InStyle magazine. They are as follows:
1) 70 - Average amount of times a woman swipes her mascara wand over both eyes.
I find this hard to believe. I will have to count when I am applying my mascara tomorrow. I think I average 36-40. We will see. It would be fun if some of you would let me know what your count is so we can see if they are right!
2) 230 - Lashes on the eyelids (top & bottom).
3) 0.4 Inches - Length of the average lash.
4) 42 - Days in a lash's life span. Who knew or cared?
5) 6 months - after which you should toss open mascaras (they are no longer resistant to bacteria). Do you follow the 6 month rule?

All this lash talk led me to another question. Would any of you consider using a lash growth serum such as Latisse which is available only by prescription? I would love to hear from you all!

Great sale today at Hautelook.com

2009-10-06T08:34:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update. Hautelook.com is offering Mario Badescu at 20-24% off today. Like I said before, I've never seen MB on sale except for on these discount web-sites. Also, today they are offering really nice Invicta watches at 75% off! You can get a $695 watch for $173. And Tahari coats are 55% off. I just thought they had some great sales today and wanted to share. I will be posting a real blog article later today.

Super Shopping Secret #7

2009-10-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

This week's Super Shopping Secret is http://www.smartbargains.com/. They have fabulous clothes and accessories. They offer labels like Anne Klein, Calvin Klein, DKNY, Michael Kors, BCBG, Kenneth Cole, Tahari and more. I bought an awesome Ellen Tracy dress there last year. I get compliments on it every time I wear it. Happy Shopping!

Organizing Clutter - Part III

2009-10-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

I thought today I would talk about organizing our thoughts, and I could think of no better place to begin than where I keep all my ideas for this blog. Yes, I keep them in this lovely Wonder Woman notebook. When I saw this it just made me smile. You have to understand that I grew up watching Wonder Woman. While my Mom had role models like Donna Reed and June Cleaver, I grew up with Charlie's Angels and Wonder Woman. I just thought a Wonder Woman notebook was the perfect place to keep my notes. She was smart, beautiful and strong. Perfectly capable of taking care of herself. The same could be said for Charlie's Angels, but Wonder Woman got to wear a really cool superhero outfit with cuff bracelets and go-go boots! I guess I've gotten off track here. Anyhoo, I'm an avid listmaker and this is where I keep all my topics listed as well as my list of potential Celebrities of the week.

As far as day to day notes, I have a tiny little moleskin notebook my cousin bought me at Barnes and Noble. This notebook is so small, thin and light that it is perfect to carry around in your purse. Some of the things I jot down in it are songs I hear on the radio that I want to download onto my IPOD. If I find a pair of pants in a store but they don't have my size, I will write down all the info off the tag and go to another store to try to find it. I also write down books I would like to read and other random things. It comes in handy when you need to write down someone's address or phone number. You know, you always need a piece of paper for something. Target sells similar little notebooks in a 3 pack for $1.99. You can get them with lined notepaper or graph paper.

At work, my two obsessions are my calendar and my post-it notes. How in the world did we ever live without post-its? I love the mini post-its. They are great to flag pages in books or magazines, and I've been known to use them as book markers when I'm in a pinch.

My desk calendar shows one week per page. I write my activities down on each day of the week so I know where I'm supposed to be and at what time. It's just nice to have a visual of what's going on, not only today, but the rest of the week. It keeps me from forgetting occasions or double-booking myself. And at the beginning of each year, I transfer over all my family and friends' birthdays so I don't miss them. For my personal use, my husband buys me a Mary Engelbreit calendar every Christmas. I just love her artwork. It is so cheerful and sweet.

Organizing Clutter - Part II

2009-09-30T06:30:00.000-07:00

Part I was about organizing paper clutter, so I thought in Part II I would address how I manage and de-clutter my closet and beauty products. Has anyone out there ever seen Peter Walsh on Oprah? He's the guy that comes on her show and helps hoarders get their homes and lives back in order. He is amazing. Well, I bought his book "It's All Too Much" and it really changed the way I view my possessions and helped me with some great tips.

I'm constantly cleaning out my stuff, but it is not overwhelming because I do it in little ways on a daily basis. I keep a shoe box on the ledge at the stop of my stairs. In this box goes anything that I realize I don't want anymore. Right now that box contains mostly paperback books that I've finished reading and beauty products that were not quite right for me. If I put on a lotion or a foundation and the smell drives me crazy it goes in the box. If I put on a lipstick that is just not the right color for me, it goes in the box. When the box gets full, I put the lid on it and put it in the garage. When the next garage sale comes along, I pull all my boxes off the shelf and price the items. Of course there are items you will just want to toss in the trash, or maybe you want to give your boxed items to charity. The important thing is to get rid of the item right when you decide you don't want it anymore. Don't wait! If you keep this up, there will be no overwhelming task of going through all your things.

I also do this with my clothes. If I put on a skirt and it is too small, it goes in a guest bedroom closet. If I decide I don't like a particular shirt anymore, it goes right into the guest closet. Shoes too tight? Tired of your handbag? Put it in your "reject closet." Never put it back up in your closet!!! Once your "reject closet" is full, go through it and decide what you want to do with the items. I send many of my nicer, newer clothes to a local consignment shop because they can get more for it there than you will get by selling it at a garage sale. Of course they will keep a commission on what they sell, but it is still worth it. My items that are not so new are typically put in a garage sale. I also give many items to charity.

Be aware that consignment shops are very picky, and understandably so. They only want clothes that are in season and clothes that are still in style. Your items will need to be clean and pressed and on hangers. I would recommend calling ahead before you take items in because many of them accept consignments only on certain days of the week or at certain times of the day. Also find out what the commission will be. They usually take 40%-50%. Sometimes they will mail your checks to you, and sometimes you will be expected to pick them up.

Organizing Clutter - Part I

2009-09-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

As mentioned before, I am somewhat of a pack rat. Especially when it comes to make-up and beauty products, but my problem also extends to clothes, magazines, papers, coupons, and books. Today I thought I would address one of the ways in which I deal with paper clutter - particularly magazines.

I used to keep stacks of fashion magazines. I had some from the 80s in the attic probably as late as 5 years ago! Well, those have since been thrown away, and I have a adopted a new system.

I subscribe to InStyle and Lucky Magazines and I often purchase People Style Watch. As I look through the magazines, if I see an item I would like to buy or check out in a store, I tear out the page. I also tear out pages for hairstyles or make-up "looks" that I like, decorating ideas, websites I would like to check out, etc. When I am finished desecrating my magazines, I pass them on to my cousin and she does the same for me.

Once I have accumulated my stack of papers, I file them in a pendaflex folder like the one pictured below which I purchased at Target for about $3.50. Each section is defined. This makes it easy to tote around in the car. If I drop by Ulta and I am itching to try some new hair products, I pull the papers out of that section and take them into the store with me. If I purchase the product, then the page is discarded.

Some of the sections in my folder are Hair Products, Hair Styles, Make-up, Skincare, and Clothes. Some other ideas are: Decorating Ideas, Entertaining, Websites, etc. A folder like this could also be used to collect travel articles for different places you would like to visit in the world, recipes, and more. Happy Organizing!

Super Shopping Secret #6

2009-09-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

This week's Super Shopping Secret is http://www.thetopsecret.com/. The Top Secret offers designer sample sales daily. Just like the previously recommended shopping websites, if you subscribe, they will e-mail you daily with the current sales they are running. Each designer sale runs 1 to 3 days and they offer up to 75% off retail. Of course everything is available in limited quantities so it is important to act fast if you see something you like. Some of the sales coming up this week include Michael Kors, Kenneth Cole and Missoni. They just sold out of Jimmy Choo sunglasses on Saturday. They retailed for $330, but The Top Secret was offering them for $99. My last purchase was a few London Fog handbags that retailed for $149.95 each and I got them for $69 each on this site. The black one is my favorite!

Living Proof No Frizz Styling Spray

2009-09-23T07:30:00.000-07:00

One thing people don't really know about me is that I have wild and crazy hair. Oh, I blow dry it, straighten it, spray it, and tame it, so people don't see the big, frizzy, wavy, poof ball that it really is. Every day is a fight. This is a new product that I found that really works quite well. I initially read about it in Lucky magazine. They talked about how it utilized this new technology to block humidity from penetrating your hair. Then I got an InStyle magazine with Jennifer Garner on the cover and they said the only styling product they used on her hair for the photo shoot was Living Proof. So I went to Sephora and bought a bottle. It costs $24 for 3.4 oz. They recommend that you spray your damp hair with it liberally, then blow dry. They have 3 different formulas for straightening depending on your hair type: fine, medium, thick & coarse, etc. They also have curling products and just now came out with shampoo and conditioner too.

Let me know if you give it a try!

NEUTROGENA TRIPLE MOISTURE CONDITIONER

2009-09-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

Today I would like to recommend Neutrogena Triple Moisture Daily Deep Conditioner. This conditioner was recommended by users on a website I was checking out one day. I decided to give it a try and I absolutely love it. It is very rich and moisturizing, but doesn't make your hair feel heavy. And the smell is divine! It smells like those sweet little smarties candies. The label says, "treats extra dry, over-processed and color treated hair." It has olive extract, meadowfoam seed extract and sweet almond extract in it. Sounds good to me!

Super Shopping Secret #5

2009-09-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

Today's Super Shopping Secret is http://www.shopittome.com/. This website is awesome! I've been using it for a couple of years now. They shop all the online sales for you and send them to you via e-mail. Each day, I receive an e-mail from them. When I open it up, they have shopped every store and designer I love and sent me all the items on sale in my size that I might like. If you see something you like you click on it and it will take you to the website to purchase it. For example, my customized e-mails include items from Ralph Lauren, Nordstrom, Macy's, Bloomingdales, Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Victoria's Secret, J. Crew, Kate Spade, Bluefly, Overstock, and more. You simply go to the site and click "Get Started" on the home page. They will ask you what kind of items you are interested in such as women's clothing & accessories, men's, children's, etc. You check off everything that interests you. Then they will take you to a page that lists so many designers your head will spin. You choose the ones you like and check them all off. The next page will ask for your sizes. You may pick more than one size like a 10 & a 12, etc. They ask for your shoe size, lingerie sizes, etc. Then they will ask you how often you want them to send you sale information. I encourage you to give it a try. It's really a lot of fun and there are some great deals out there!

p.s. It is Clinique Bonus Time at Dillards. With a purchase of $21.50 they are offering a makeup bag with a keychain lipgloss, full size lipstick, blush stick, mascara, Even Better Skin Tone Corrector, and a travel size Mild Liquid Facial Soap.

What to Take in your Carry-On for a Long Flight

2009-09-17T12:45:00.000-07:00

Since I have a trip coming up soon and needed to pack, I thought I would write about what I take with me on the plane. Now these are my recommendations for a long flight. When nighttime comes, I have been known to wash my face and brush my teeth on the plane. I put moisturizer on to keep my skin from drying out. In the morning I wash my face and brush my teeth again, reapply my makeup and get off the plane feeling tired but fresh-faced.

If I am going to be on the plane overnight, this is what I take:

1. My favorite Vera Wang travel bag I bought at Kohls. It is a large nylon bag that holds a lot of stuff. It is easy to wipe clean and has strong shoulder straps.

2. I carry my travel wallet which contains my license, passport, cash, insurance cards and credit cards.

3. Small moleskin notebook. It is very light and gives me a place to jot down ideas and make lists. I am an avid list maker!!!

4. I have to have a pen & a highlighter.

5. Reading material. On this trip I will be taking one classic paperback, a small devotional book, a fashion magazine and a sudoku puzzle book. My husband is packing the travel guide.

6. Sunglasses

7. Bandaids. You never know!

8. Toothbrush in a case.

9. Hair band and/or clips.

10. A small fold-up travel hair brush.

11. Travel size Kleenex packet.

12. Borba or Airborne that you can dissolve in water.

13. Small tin of Altoids.

14. Throat lozenges.

15. Sleeping mask

16. Cotton Rounds

17. Q-tips

18. Make-up bag with all my non-liquid makeup.

19. An extra pair of undies! (Just in case your luggage gets lost. It happens!)

20. Quart size bag of liquid products

This is what my quart size bag contains:

1. Eye drops because the dry air on the plane really dries out your eyes too.

2. Clinique Moisture Surge moisturizer. I've recommended this on my blog before. It is a cool gel moisturizer. Feels great. No smell. And I'm not a big moisturizer fan, but the dry air on the plane really makes it necessary.

3. Lip gloss or balm to keep your lips from drying out.

4. Allergy nasal spray or saline spray because your sinuses will get dried out too.

5. Tide To Go stick - just in case.

6. Travel size toothpaste so you can brush your teeth.

7. A small travel size spray bottle filled with water. This is one of my favorite things. I spritz my face - with or without makeup on, just to moisten it and feel refreshed. It really helps keep it from drying out. I even convinced my mother-in-law to let me spritz her on our last flight!

8. My Smashbox Primer for when I reapply makeup.

9. Travel size hand sanitizer. You could buy the little bottles or the little paper packets.

10. Travel size eye makeup remover. I keep the little sample bottles I get with the Clinique giveaways and just keep refilling them.

11. Travel size toner - ditto above.

12. Travel size cleanser. On clinique.com you can order a box of 3 travel size cleansing gels. I pack these or free sample bottles they give away with purchase.

13. Concealer

Happy Travels Everyone!!!

FACE WASH / BODY WASH

2009-09-16T17:46:00.000-07:00

Today I would like to recommend Neutrogena Pore Refining Cleanser. The funny thing is, I rarely use it to wash my face which is what the product is made for. I use it as a body wash every single day. It is a white cream with tiny microbeads in it. I squirt it onto a shower scrunchie and wash away. It smooths your skin like crazy. Makes it feel really silky. Great for elbows, knees, upper arms and your thighs and rear. It smooths them all. But it has less to do with the microbeads and more to do with the Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids that are in it. When my face gets kind of dull, I do use it to wash my face, and it does reveal more glowing skin. I think that's what made me decide to try it on the rest of my body. The back of the product reads: "...visibly reduces the appearance of pores and refines skin to be clear, smooth and more even toned...it sweeps away dead surface skin and smoothes over rough, uneven patches." It is non-comedogenic and soap free. It does have a slight fragrance which is kind of hard to describe, but does not smell like perfume. Like I said, I don't use it on my face daily because the acids would irritate it, but once a week probably wouldn't be a bad idea. If you try it, let me know how it worked out for you!

Lypossage and Neckline Slimmer Update

2009-09-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

Well, it just so happens that I'm ending my lypossage sessions and my neckline slimmer exercises on the same day so I decided to give you a report on the results of them both as promised.

The lypossage regime recommends 12 sessions a couple of days apart. Then a follow-up session once a month for maintenance. The brochure said they recommend you drink lots of water and do aerobic exercise during your treatment period. I already drink a decent amount of water, and I walk on a treadmill 3 to 5 times a week. I did not change my eating habits or increase my exercise because I wanted to be able to report the actual results from the treatment alone.

I ended up doing only 10 sessions because I have a vacation coming up and won't be able to get to the spa for 8 days. I typically stretched my appointments out to 3 or 4 days apart. I have to tell you that my last 2 sessions were the easiest because I had become accustomed to the abuse, and I took a Tylenol about a half hour before I arrived. The treatments are extremely painful. Your skin is literally twisted, pulled, slapped, and beaten. You get bruises. It is hardcore. And the results were not quite what I was hoping for. I have seen some improvement, but for the amount of money you spend and the pain associated with the treatments, I would not recommend it to anyone hoping for a big change. I do however believe that the massages have benefited me through improved circulation which has equaled more energy, and a reduction in congestion and allergies.

My friend Marlene told me about a laser treatment called Zerona which is supposed to melt fat. You simply lie on a table and they point the laser at different parts of your body and it goes to work. It is not a hot laser and you don't feel a thing. It can even be used to get rid of a double chin. Of course once the fat is gone, it will come right back if you eat fatty foods. I went online and looked up some news stories about it and some clips from the show "Doctors." It looks completely legit, but in Houston it costs about $2500. I will have to save up some serious cash before I can try that one, but I will definitely put it on my list of things to do!

As for the Neckline Slimmer, it came with 3 different springs that you insert into the contraption. Each spring increases in resistance. So I started with the easiest one and did that for a week. Then I used the medium one for a week, and finally worked my way up to the most difficult one for the last week. I did 30 reps of neck exercises and 30 reps of chin exercises daily. Well, I got absolutely no results whatsoever. So guys and girls, save your money on that one too! Mine is going back to the store!

Super Shopping Secret #4

2009-09-14T14:05:00.000-07:00

My super shopping secret for today is GILT which is another discount luxury shopping website. Now when I say luxury, I mean luxury. We are talking Dolce & Gabbana, Vera Wang, Burberry, Tory Burch, and Cole Haan just this week! Prices are typically 50% to 75% off. For example: I purchased a Badgley Mischka cocktail dress that retailed for $598 but was sold on GILT for $198. I realize $198 is still not cheap, but there are affordable items to be found on this site regardless. And the packaging is just beautiful! My dress came on a hanger with the Badgley Mischka retail tag still attached. It was in a Badgley Mischka plastic sleeve, then folded to perfection and wrapped in black tissue paper with a black thank you card written in gold. My dress did not fit well, so I went online and printed out the return label to ship it back. It was so easy. Just watch the daily postings and you will be surprised what you find. Some days you may not find anything you like or can afford, and some days you will hit the jackpot! This week they will have Too Faced cosmetics on sale for all you other product junkies out there. You must submit your request to shop via this link: http://www.gilt.com/invite/janicez. They usually respond with an answer by the next day at the latest. Then you will be ready to shop to your heart's content. They will send you an e-mail daily letting you know what sales are going on. Enjoy!

p.s. One of my previous "Super Shopping Secrets" was Hautelook. Today they have LORAC products on sale. There is also a link for "Decades Two." If you click on this they are offering many designer label clothes plus Manolo Blahniks and Stuart Weitzman shoes. Click on this link http://www.hautelook.com/invite/253093.

Cargo's One Base, Fashion's Night Out

2009-09-11T07:09:00.000-07:00

I purchased Cargo's "One Base" at Ulta last weekend. It is a foundation and concealer in one. In comes in a large tube with a large wand kind of similar to a lip gloss wand. I think it is okay as a concealer, but if you use it as a foundation it is not easy to apply with the wand and you would have to use a lot of it which just seems pretty wasteful. So I will be returning this product also.

Attended Fashion's Night Out at Neiman Marcus last night. Enjoyed lots of good food. The best item in my goody bag was a Bobbi Brown blush that I'm looking forward to trying. They also offered samples of Glowelle which is a skin nourishing drink similar to Borba which I wrote about previously. I was glad I got an opportunity to taste it, and I have to say Borba tastes so much better! It's not even close!

Monday I will post my next "Super Shopping Secret." Next Tuesday is my last lypossage treatment so I will update you on the outcome of that experience. Hope you all have a great weekend!

Fashion Night Out + Product Reviews & Updates

2009-09-10T10:52:00.000-07:00

Tonight is Fashion's Night Out at Neiman Marcus. It is my understanding that this event is taking place all over the world. Our Neiman's in Houston promises lots of free cosmetic samples, great food, music, and fashion shows. 6pm to 9:30pm. Should be fun!

Update on the Sally Hansen nail polish. Today is day 6 and I barely have a few chips around the edges on my right hand. Left hand still looks great. And I have not added any more top coat since the day after my manicure on Sunday. Could be touched up but I will probably switch colors today.

As promised, I tried the Infallible powder that the Loreal website recommended as being the closest thing to the Quickstick they discontinued. Well, the Infallible powder is nothing like the Quickstick. It is simply a powder and I wouldn't recommend it for use as a foundation. It is going back to the store.

I also tried Benefit Playsticks in "Spin the Bottle." It is a cream to powder foundation stick. It is much creamier than the Quickstick. I personally prefer the drier texture of the Quickstick. The color looked kind of orangey when I first opened it, but once I put it on and blended I loved the color and the appearance it gave my skin. Kind of a dewy look and provided good coverage. I did not however enjoy the smell. It smells kind of medicinal or herbal when I first put it on. Fortunately my allergies didn't react and the smell faded, but it was a little annoying at first. Today I noticed my face is a little broken out and I can't help but wonder if it was from the creamy formula being on my face all day. So the Playstick will be returned also. Still looking for that perfect replacement!

315 Lipsticks

2009-09-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have 315 lipsticks. First of all, let me say that I am not posting this to brag. I am actually very ashamed of myself and am hoping that exposing my weirdness will somehow make me feel accountable to change.

Over the Labor Day weekend, I decided to tackle some organizing projects around the house. At the top of the list was organizing and cleaning out my lipstick collection. This collection has obviously grown to ginormous proportions. How did this happen? I have given it a lot of thought and this is what I came up with:

1. I blame my Mother. You know how your Mom always told you to clean your plate? Well she brainwashed me into not being wasteful and apparently it took really well because I have lipstick that I've had since High School! Sure they may smell funny and include colors like foil pink ala 80s Valley Girl, but they are perfectly full tubes of lipstick and it would be a shame to throw them in the trash!

2. It's my Dad's fault. My Dad is a well-known pack rat; therefore, I am genetically predisposed to hoard things.

3. Avon is Evil! The majority of my lipstick is from Avon - a whopping 93 tubes! If you hand me an Avon book I'm going to order something. Lipstick for $2.99? Give me one in every color! It's way too easy to order things you don't have to pay for at the moment.

4. Free Samples are from the Devil! Okay, I have 14 Clinique Lip Colors and I've never actually purchased a Clinique Lipcolor. Going back to number one, my Mother wouldn't like it if I carelessly tossed out a perfectly good lipstick I got for free!

Okay, so I got rid of 22 lipsticks over the weekend and am down to 293, but that is obviously not near enough. So here is my proclamation. I hereby promise that if I purchase another lipstick, I will get rid of 5 lipsticks. I will continue this process until I get down to 100 lipsticks. I will not falter or deviate from this plan. You are my witnesses. So help me God! Seriously, God help me!

Nail Polish & Remover

2009-09-08T10:31:00.000-07:00

Today I thought I would write about my new favorite thing: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Fast Dry Nail Color. I went to get a manicure at the salon spa Saturday morning, and as soon as I left I smudged a nail trying to put my keys in the ignition. Then I smudged another nail trying to put my seat belt on! By the time I got to my next stop at Ulta, I had smudged half my nails and my manicure was ruined. While shopping at Ulta I came across Sally Hansen's new polish which has some great features: 60 seconds to dry, wide applicator brush that claims one stroke will cover the entire nail, and complete coverage with one coat. I am one of those people who hates to wait for nail polish to dry so I hardly ever paint my own nails. But I went ahead and bought about 5 different colors thinking that if I tried one and didn't like it, I would return them all. At home I painted my nails myself and they really did dry in 60 seconds and really did only need one coat. As far as one stroke covering the entire nail, I haven't mastered that technique yet, but the wide brush was so much better and easier to use than the skinny ones most polishes have. As far as wear is concerned, I am on day 4 with no chips. On day 2 I did apply a top coat to help preserve my polish so I'm sure that has a lot to do with it. But I have to say, I swam in chlorinated water, washed dishes, typed, straightened up the house, etc. I am very pleased. This product has seriously taken the dread out of doing my own nails. Polishes left to right are: #04 Petal Pusher, #11 Sonic Bloom, #13 Racey Rouge, #09 Rapid Red, #20 Pronto Purple, #18 Cinna-snap.

I also wanted to recommend these individual nail polish remover felts. I bought mine over a year ago at Kroger. When I was in the grocery store the other day, they did not have the brand I have, but they did have a Kroger brand and a Cutex brand. The nail polish remover comes in a box full of individual packets. Each packet contains a large, thick piece of felt type material that is already saturated with polish remover. Each felt removes polish for 10 nails, so you can do both hands or both feet with only one felt. They are perfect to keep in your purse or in your desk at work. I can't tell you how many times I've gotten to work and noticed my nail polish was way past its expiration date and looked horrid. It's just one of those things I keep putting off thinking I will do it later then I forget. These are great for little emergencies and only cost about $2.99 for a box.

Super Shopping Secret #3

2009-09-07T17:21:00.000-07:00

As promised, today I'm sharing my favorite discount shopping site. Drum roll please... it's Rue La La. If you go to their website and sign up for free, they will send you an e-mail each day with the new sales that are starting. Nicole Miller and Kenneth Cole are on sale today. Here is a link to get to it: http://www.ruelala.com/invite.jzalesnik The sales usually last 2 to 3 days and items are limited. So if you see something you really like you need to jump on it before it is sold out. They are really good about letting you know up front what items are returnable and which ones are not. Everything is always packaged very nicely. I have posted some pics of some of the items I've purchased from Rue La La. Among these items are Havaianas flip-flops which were on Oprah's favorites list in the past. I also purchased some beautiful Cole Haan shoes as well as a bag. I haven't worn any of my shoes yet, but I have received a lot compliments on my bag. The shoes all have the Nike air technology in them which make them extra comfortable. I love Cole Haan, but it is not cheap. I usually purchase items at their outlet in Katy or San Marcos. My favorite bargain I bought through Rue La La was my Kitchenaid mixer. This particular professional series model retailed for $420-$450 and I purchased it through Rue La La for $229! I can't wait to get baking this Christmas!

Laura Mercier Haul

2009-09-03T15:25:00.000-07:00

The Laura Mercier makeup I ordered through Hautelook.com came in. Wow! Nice stuff. I had never purchased Laura Mercier before and I am very pleased. And I received half-off of retail which pleases me even more! I posted a pic of the entire haul, then individual pics of some of my favorites in the bunch. The three glosses are actually lip plumpers. I don't really need my lips to be plumped, but I ordered them anyway because I loved the colors. The first one from the left is "pink grapefruit." The second one is "opal" which is a nice neutral. The third one is "persimmon." I loved all of the eyeshadows. The third pic above features pearl, topaz, and celestial which is a beautiful grayish blue. The last pic features pearl again, pink oyster, and twilight grey which is really more of a smoky purple color. I received a "stormy grey" kohl eye pencil with one of the sets and I love it. It is a nice dark grey which is great when you don't feel like going all-out black with your liner. They sent me a free sample of foundation primer, but as soon as I screwed off the lid I could tell I wouldn't be able to wear it. VERY STRONG FLORAL SMELL! So if you are sensitive to fragrance I definitely wouldn't recommend it. I was back on Hautelook.com today and purchased a massive amount of Rock & Republic cosmetics at 40% off. I will report on it when it comes in. Don't forget to check out Hautelook.com. It was my first ever "Super Shopping Secret."

Mascara & Tweezers

2009-09-02T17:34:00.000-07:00

I've been a long time devotee to Maybelline Great Lash Mascara. I have somewhat thick lashes and I think their brush works really well for me. I love the "blackest black" but I also use "brownish black" on occasion. I've noticed that every year InStyle magazine lists them as the best budget mascara, if not the best mascara period. There is a reason it's been around a long time.

I've tried some of the new mascaras that have the rubber brushes and they don't work for me at all.

Lately I am loving Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara. The formula is thin enough to get into your lashes really well to coat them, and I like the brush too. It reminds me of the Maybelline brush. I got a couple of samples with purchases I made last year and I've decided it's time to purchase the full size. It costs $14 and I noticed it was rated 4 out of 5 stars on Clinique's website.

I never thought tweezers were that important until I lost my Tweezerman tweezers for about 5 days last week. I searched everywhere in my bathroom 2 or 3 times and even had my husband emptying out drawers to help me find them! We have special rules about him borrowing my tweezers. He knows there is a particular place that they belong and he must put them back where he found them. I have had so many tweezers that didn't grip well, or just broke hair off when you grabbed it. My Tweezerman tweezers are the best I've ever had. I had been reading about them in magazines for years. They always made InStyle's "best of" list. I just couldn't imagine spending $20 for a pair of tweezers! So I got the petite size and spent only $12. I mean, why do you need full size tweezers? They accomplish the exact same thing and I think the petite size are much more manageable and easy to use.

ZIT ZAPPERS!

2009-09-01T17:22:00.000-07:00

As someone who has battled acne since the age of 12, I have tried just about every product out there. I am now 40 years old, and still have frequent breakouts. I have tried accutane, antibiotics, and every kind of topical product (prescription and store bought) you can think of. Add to that the fact that I have sensitive skin and allergies and can't tolerate benzoyl peroxide, I have a dilemna on my hands.

These are 2 outstanding products I would recommend to anyone. I first noticed an ad for Mario Badescu's Drying Lotion in the back of several different magazines years ago. Then I read an article in which Liv Tyler was raving about it and I finally decided to give it a try. Wow! This stuff is awesome! It's famous for "drying up pimples overnight" and that's pretty much what it does. The Drying Lotion seriously shrinks whiteheads overnight. It contains calamine, salicylic acid, camphor and sulfur. When the bottle is left sitting, the pink calamine collects on the bottom and a clear liquid sits on top. You are not supposed to shake it up and mix it, you are supposed to leave it separated. Then you dip a q-tip in it and dot it on your whiteheads. It will dry and you leave it on overnight. You will see a big difference in the morning.

Mario Badescu's Buffering Lotion is made to "stop deep cystic pimples in their tracks." Boy does it ever! I've used this several times this week, and it is very effective overnight. I had one of those hard bumps that you can see under the skin. It was a little smaller than a dime. The next morning it was the size of a pinhead! And I had absolutely no allergic reaction to it over the course of the week. I am very apprehensive to put things on my face before I go to bed because I tend to roll around and rub my face in my pillow during the night. If I put something aggravating on my skin I will typically wake up with red, runny eyes and nose. This product has no smell at all and is a milky liquid that goes on clear.

Mario Badescu has a spa in New York and specializes in skin solutions. They address everything from ezcema to scars. They have an extensive skin care line. They do absolutely no animal testing. They have been featured in numerous magazines such as Lucky, Elle, Glamour, InStyle, Women's Health, Family Circle and Martha Stewart Living. Their celebrity clients include: Jennifer Anniston, Ashley Judd, Live Tyler, Charlize Theron, Gwyneth Paltrow, Courtney Cox, Martha Stewart, Eva Longoria, Natalie Portman, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell and Oprah.

You may order these and other Mario Badescu products at http://www.mariobadescu.com/. And if you want to save shipping costs, Ulta just recently started carrying Mario Badescu in their stores. The items I have featured here are $17 each which is quite a good deal for such effective products. And they both last quite a while. If you have a teenager who is battling acne, or you are battling it yourself - please give it a try!

Super Shopping Secret #2

2009-08-31T10:15:00.000-07:00

It probably seems a little unusual that today's shopping secret is a magazine, but after I tell you a little bit about it you will understand why. Lucky Magazine is a magazine for shoppers. Every item that shows up in the mag shows where to buy it and how much it costs. They feature clothing, jewelry, and beauty products galore. I have to say that I'm not a big fan of a lot of the outfits they put together, but you can still find nice pieces in here if you have a good eye. The main reason I am recommending Lucky is because every single issue has a giveaway section called "Lucky Breaks" in the back. There are always tons of things you can register online to win. We are talking everything from flat screen TVs to Benefit Cosmetics. For example, the July issue offered 100 shopping sprees worth $100 in Benefit cosmetics. I subscribed and entered a lot of the giveaways when I received my very first issue. I actually won a $100 gift card from The Limited! (Yes, that's me in the bottom photo.) It is very time consuming because you have to fill out an online entry form for every single item you are interested in. It would be nice if you filled out one form and could click on the items you were interested in registering for, but hey, it's free stuff! Make the sacrifice! There is also a section in every issue that offers discounts on items featured in the magazine. Discounts usually range between 30% & 35%. And throughout the mag you will notice there are numerous opportunities to sign up for sweepstakes and special offers such as the ad from Havaianas I posted above. I have noticed that the last page of every issue features a page about your city in particular and recommends new hot spots to shop at. The "Houston" page I posted above offers 20% off at 2 different boutiques and a skin clinic. The July issue alone offered no less than 35 discounts and 10 giveaways with 841 prizes to be awarded. If you're not interested in subscribing, you can still enter all the sweepstakes by logging onto their website at http://www.luckymag.com/. So this is my Super Shopping Secret for the week. As mentioned before, I will post a new shopping secret each Monday. Next week I will be posting my favorite online designer discount shopping site.

Neckline Slimmer

2009-08-27T17:43:00.001-07:00

Okay, I'm going to admit something very embarrassing. You know the commercial with the women with sagging jawlines who use this little contraption to do neck and chin exercises and the next thing you know, no more double chin? Well, I went to Walgreens 3 days ago and bought that little contraption. I am somewhat ashamed of myself for believing and hoping the commercial is true. So again, I am either a fool or a pioneer. The good thing about this blog is that it gives me an excuse to go on these crazy adventures and call it investigational reporting.

Last night as I sat on the couch with my hubby watching TV, I pulled out my little contraption. Husband asks with hesitation, "What are you doing?" I said, I'm doing my chin exercises." Husband rolls his eyes. I commence exercises. Husband cuts his eyes at me and chokes back a laugh. The last thing I needed at a humbling moment like this is ridicule. So at the age of 40 this is what my life has come to.

I took a "before" pic but I am too vain to post it. The only way you will ever see it is if said contraption works and I can post it next to my beautiful "after" pic in which my jawline is right back where it used to be!

Borba

2009-08-26T16:21:00.000-07:00

Today I would like to sing the praises of Borba Replenishing Aqua-less Crystalline Lychee Fruit. These are little powder packets that you mix with 16 oz. of water and drink. They were created to promote "Healthy Skin from Within."

I bought this product in the hope that it would make my skin look better, but the nice surprise was that my allergies dramatically improved. I had awoken to a stuffy head, runny nose and sneezing literally every day for the last 2 years. I tried everything under the sun. I drank all different kinds of herbal teas and took vitamins. I had my house tested for air quality problems. I switched to fragrance free laundry detergent, went to my family doctor, an allergist, an endocrinologist, and a dermatologist. The only thing that worked was prescription allergy meds which I did not want to have to take every day. I was so depressed by my allergies and at my wits end because they tested me for everything and I wasn't allergic to any specific thing they could identify. I started drinking the lychee borba, and within 2 days I woke up with clear sinuses and haven't had a problem since. Of course I can still set my allergies off by using irritating products, but the day-to-day misery is gone. I am so thankful to have found this product!

I must warn you, it is not cheap! I found a box on clearance at Ulta for $30 which was the only reason I chose the lychee fruit flavor. I didn't even know what a lychee fruit was, much less how it tasted. But I have to tell you, it is absolutely delicious! I think it tastes like a green apple jolly rancher candy. It tastes sweet, yet has no sugar. It is calorie free, aspartame free, sodium free, preservative free, and has zero carbs. This particular formula is supposed to boost moisture, diminish dryness, sensitivity and roughness and promote healthy balanced skin. I noticed another person commented on a website that they drank it to help stave off colds.

Borba has so many vitamins and minerals in it you wouldn't believe. Check out these stats: 420% Vitamin C, 330% Vitamin E, 150% B6, 420% B12, and it contains papaya, guava, lychee, green tea, flaxseed & grapeseed. They have other formulas for clarifying, firming, age defying, etc. They are all packed with nutrients and come in flavors like pomegranate and acai. I buy the 60 count box. I just started on my second box. Ulta sells a 60 pack for $100. I checked a lot of web-sites and they all sold for $100 except for Amazon.com sells them for $91.20 and a website called http://www.eskinstore.com/ sells them for $65. That is a great bargain! Now, I have never ordered anything from this website but it says they include free samples with every sale and they offer "rewards points." Even if you spent the $100 for two months worth of drinks (you only drink one per day) it would average $1.67 per day. That is pretty cheap when you consider you would spend about $1.50 at a coke machine or almost $4 for a small latte. At $65 for a 2 months supply you are looking at a little over a dollar a day. They also sell smaller boxes of 14 packets. I am sold on it!

If any of you decide to give it a try, let me know how it worked out for you.

Lotion Alternative

2009-08-25T19:49:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to share my alternative to lotion. When my allergies kicked in a couple of years ago, I found it difficult to wear most lotions because of the fragrance in them. And while there are fragrance free lotions out there, applying them after you get out of the shower just takes extra time and effort. So I started using Neutrogena Body Oil Light Sesame Formula - Fragrance Free. As the label implies, it has sesame seed oil in it. I apply it right after my shower - while I'm still in the shower. It's best to moisturize while your skin is still damp because it retains more moisture. I put it on my legs and arms, making sure to cover my elbows. Sometimes I rub it on my heels too because they tend to get dry. If you are a bath girl, you can add it to bath water to soften your skin. You can purchase this at Walgreens, Ulta, Walmart, Target and most grocery and drug stores. Neutrogena offers the same body oil with fragrance. The bottle looks the same but does not have the label "fragrance free" on the front so watch for that. Sometimes a store doesn't carry the fragrance free version or they are out of stock so you may have to shop around for it. Good luck!

Super Shopping Secret

2009-08-24T15:39:00.000-07:00

Once a week I'm going to give you one of my super shopping secrets until I just run out of them. Today I've decided to feature Hautelook.com because it is the discounted shopping website where I have purchased the most makeup and skincare products. I have purchased Mario Badescu skincare products at 20% off from this site. I usually order MB drying lotion (which is one of the best pimple healers on the planet) by going directly to their website but you will hardly ever find their products on sale. Ulta now carries MB but even if they give you a coupon to use at their store, they now have a restriction that coupons can't be used for "prestige cosmetics." Anyhoo, I've also purchased some great Stila products, some Freeze 24/7 products, and I am currently awaiting an order of Laura Mercier. And Hautelook offers discounts up to 75% off so there are some really great deals to be had. Of course Hautelook does not carry these products every day. Their sales are special events that typically only last 48 hours. You never know what's going to be on sale on any given day. I suggest subscribing so you will get an e-mail every day letting you know what the current sales are. And be very quick to jump on the items you like because they have a limited supply. Hautelook does a great job with packaging. Just pay attention when you order to what is returnable and what is not. And I didn't mean to imply that cosmetics and skincare items are the only things they sell. I have purchased some beautiful silver jewelry and costume jewelry also. They have men's, women's & children's designer clothing - and I mean BIG designer labels. They also have items for the home. One of their upcoming sales this week will be on Tiffany & Co. jewelry. Everything is brand new and there is nothing to worry about as far as quality is concerned because like I said, these are MAJOR labels. This website has been featured in People Magazine, and on the Today Show, CNN, Fox, and more. I think I was turned on to them by Lucky Magazine. It is no joke. Check it out:

Hautelook: Your personal invitation link is: http://www.hautelook.com/invite/253093

Foundation

2009-08-20T18:50:00.000-07:00

Since we covered basic skin care, I thought we could move on to the next step - foundation. This is my current routine and products that I use.

After I've washed and dried my face, made sure all eye makeup is removed, and applied toner, I apply a primer. I'm new to the world of primer. Since my skin is so sensitive and I have allergies, I try not to layer too many things on my face and keep it simple. But I have to say that primer really does make a difference and so far it has not once caused an allergy problem. I've been using Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer. I just put one full squirt of it on my finger then smear it on the different areas of my face and blend with my fingers. It gives your face a silky feeling. Smashbox also makes a "Light" version which I have also tried and will probably purchase when my regular bottle runs out. I've noticed when I use primer my face looks smoother and more poreless. Plus it has vitamins and antioxidants in it and doesn't have any smell at all.

After the primer, I apply my foundation. I alternate between a dry stick foundation and a liquid foundation depending on if I want a dewy look or a matte look. I have been using Loreal Ideal Balance Quickstick in Pale for years. Unfortunately, Loreal has discontinued the Quickstick, so I had to order it through Amazon.com last time. I just draw stripes all over my face and then blend them with a foundation brush. I love, love, love this foundation stick and I don't know what in the world I will do to replace it! Loreal's website referred me to the new Infallible Powder which I will most likely try and report back to you on.

As far as liquid foundation is concerned, lately I have been blending Lorac Oil Free Neutralizer with Clinique's Almost Makeup Teint Naturel Parfait. I put one small squirt of each on my hand then blend them together with a foundation brush and swipe all over my face and blend. The Neutralizer is meant to even out your skin and cancel out any red in it. You can wear it alone, but be aware that it is extremely light! You don't want to look like you are wearing a mask. Ulta now sells Lorac if you want to check it out.

If I have any blemishes that show through, I use my finger to very lightly dot on some Mary Kay Signature Concealer in Ivory. A little goes a long way. I've been using this concealer for years also. If I feel like applying powder, I use a powder brush to apply Make Up Forever's HD High Definition Powder. It is completely white in the jar, but completely sheer when you apply it. It really diffuses everything very well.

I have had very good experiences with these products as far as them not aggravating my allergies. There is a website called http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/ where you can go to check out all kinds of makeup, skin care products, hair care products and more. They rank each product's safety/irritant levels on a scale of 0 to 10. If you don't see a product you're looking for, you can submit it as a suggestion for testing. Smashbox's Light Primer scored a "3" and my Loreal Quickstick scored a "2" so you can see why I'm so sad that it's been discontinued.

Lypossage Update

2009-08-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I went in for my 3rd lypossage treatment. My masseuse informed me that she would like to get my measurements and my "before" pics since we hadn't had an opportunity to do so previously. #1 - I'm horrified at the thought of having my picture taken in my underwear. #2 - I'm even more horrified to learn that the circumference of just one of my thighs is what my waist measurement used to be! Anyhoo, she shows me my headless pic - front, back, and sides. While part of me is disgusted with what I see, another part of me thinks it's not as bad as I thought it would be. And I am somewhat comforted by the fact that they are taking so many measurements and pictures. This leads me to believe that they are confident that there will be significant changes. We will see...

Tomorrow my post will be about foundation. Please come back and read!

Skin Care

2009-08-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

So today I thought I would start with the foundation of everything - skin care. As mentioned before, I have very fair, extremely sensitive skin, and allergies. I also have a tendency to break out a lot. I have oily skin that often appears to be flaky. These are the items I use daily with the exception of the moisturizer which I only use when needed.

I wash my face every night with Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild. You can rub this all over your face and eyes - it is very mild and non-irritating but removes makeup very well. Whatever eye makeup is left, I use Clinique Rinse-off Eye Makeup Solvent to remove it. This never irritates my eyes, and I like it because it is not greasy at all. I then use Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2 as a toner.

My Mom has dry skin and I have oily skin but we both have the problem with flaky skin. The flakes would even be in our eyebrows so when you ran your finger over them they felt gritty. We both went to different dermatologists and were prescribed various creams and given numerous samples and nothing got rid of the flakes. We were at our wits end. It goes against conventional wisdom to put a toner on your face if your skin looks flaky, but I'm telling you it will get rid of the flakes! I told my Mom to try it and she couldn't believe that it worked. She uses a Mary Kay toner and still gets good results.

I only use moisturizer occasionally in the winter or if I'm visiting a cold/windy climate or I'm on an airplane for a long period of time. When I do, I prefer Clinique Moisture Surge. It is a gel so you don't get that greasy feeling at all. My Mom loves it too. Again, I'm oily and she's dry - it works for both of us.

I wanted to mention that a good, and less expensive alternative to the Clinique Cleanser, is Eucerin's Sensitive Skin Gentle Hydrating Cleanser. It is Fragrance-Free, very mild, and you can buy it at Walgreens. I usually keep it in the shower and wash my face with it in the mornings then use the Clinique Clarifying Lotion when I get out.

I realize there is nothing groundbreaking here. Everyone knows about Clinique and Eucerin. Probably the thing I'm most excited to tell you about is the Premium Exfoliating Cotton Rounds I buy from Walgreens. You may not be able to tell in the photo above, but one side of the cotton round is soft and the other side has little bumps. They are 100% pure cotton, but the bumpy side is great to use when applying the toner/clarifying lotion. It helps remove the dead skin. Of course the softer side is great for removing your eye make-up. I have to warn you that Walgreens doesn't always have these in stock. The last 2 stores I went to were out, but I lucked out and found them today. I really love these things and now that I've been using them I hate to use anything else.

I hope you have good luck with these items if you give them a try. Let me know how it works out for you.

Lypossage

2009-08-18T14:06:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago I wondered into the salon and spa near my house to get a mani/pedi. While waiting for the manicurist, I picked up a brochure about lypossage. Hmmm. Sounds interesting. I flip through the before and after pics and I am stunned at the results. Women with lumps and bumps who look just like me are gloriously transformed into smooth skinned creatures with nary a lump in sight. I am intrigued even more. Flip over to the pricing page and I'm in shock. I knew it wouldn't be cheap, but my word!

I ask the manicurist if she knows anything about it and she says it is not what you would call a relaxing massage. She says some people can handle it, and some can't. I am afraid. I'm pretty much a wimp and I bruise easily. I put the brochure in my purse and carry it around for a couple of days when I finally decide it's worth a shot.

E-mail to Cousin 8/11/09 at 2:10pm: "...I'm going to get lypossage. This will be my first one. You're supposed to get them done in a series, but I only booked one becasue I heard they can be painful and you can even bruise from it, so I wanted to try it out before I spend a ton of money because you know I'm a delicate little flower. :)

Text to Cousin 8/11/09 at 6:41pm: "I have been literally beaten, slapped, and indian rug burned all over my body! going back friday for some more."

E-mail from Cousin 8/12/09: "You sore today?"

Response: "A little, but not as bad as I thought I would be. Surprised to not find any bruising. That massage is not for sissies. I had to use Jedi mind tricks to stay on that table!"

Cousin: "I am out. Cause I am a sissy."

When I arrived for Round 2 on Friday the masseuse informed me that she would be going a little deeper this time. I'm thinking, "How is that possible?" I lay face down on the table and with my eyes squeezed shut I repeat to myself, "I'm on a beach in Kaui. I'm on a beach in Kaui. I'M ON A BEACH IN KAUI!" I feel that I am either the biggest fool to walk the earth, or I am a brave crusader on a voyage of new discovery.

The morning after round 2 I have a 4 inch long bruise on my left upper arm and 2 small round bruises on my upper buttocks. I have purchased 6 treatments and have 5 more to go. My next appointment is tomorrow. Hopefully my bruises will be gone by then and we can start from scratch!

I will keep you all posted on my progress or lack thereof. Maybe I can save some of you the agony!

Hello World!

2009-08-17T10:29:00.000-07:00

Today is my very first experience with blogging. Hopefully it will be interesting to some of you and therapeutic for me. I'm one of those people who have lots of ideas but never actually take action and follow through with them. So, yea me. I'm proud of myself. Anyhoo, I thought I would blog about something that I deal with day after day, and that is having fair, sensitive skin.

I know there are a lot of young ladies out there blogging about products and cosmetics, but my angle is a bit different in that I'm 40 years old, very fair skinned, and extremely sensitive. All you fair skinned girls out there know that our cosmetic color needs are a bit unique. Put the wrong color red on your nails and you look like you're bleeding. Put on some blush with a bit too much pigment and you look like a street walker. Put your colors on too light and you look like a corpse. It's a delicate balance. A walk on a tight rope every day.

This morning I thought I would go for "the natural look." I thought I looked pretty good when I went out the door, but once I got to work and looked in the bathroom mirror, I was horror sticken! Someone bring me some bright lipstick STAT! We all have those days.

And this morning I rediscovered a beautiful neutral colored gloss in my stash. As I swiped it on I thought, "This is my new favorite color! I'm going to wear it everyday!" Well, within 5 minutes my nose was running like a water faucet and I sneezed all the way to work. I mean, is it really necessary to put fragrance in a lip color? It is right under your nose people! That is my new beef with the cosmetics companies. Please do not put fragrance in your skin products and cosmetics! There are so many wonderful products and beautiful colors out there that many of us want to try. Please hear our cry!