Book Review

I just finished reading Knit Two by Kate Jacobs which is a follow up to The Friday Night Knitting Club.  And yes, this is one of those books that you need to read the first book in order to follow along with the second book.  AND BONUS...there's a third book!!!! Knit the Season is the 3rd book (and final one I believe) 

I really enjoyed this book!!! It was an easy read, which is a major bonus!  There are some parts in the story that are real page turners, and a few parts where it just took a little bit to get the story going.  The first book took me a little bit to get into.  I posted on my facebook status asking if anyone had read it and what they thought.  I was only on page 40 and wasn't really into it and wanted to know if I should keep going.  EVERYONE said the same thing!!! YES KEEP GOING!!!!!!  I'm soooooooooo glad I did!

It's basically about this woman, Georgia, who opens her own knitting store in New York City.  She has an apartment above the store where she lives with her daughter Dakota.  Somehow over time, women from all walks of life end up hanging around the store on Friday nights after closing and work on knitting projects and just share stories about their lifes.  It's a small group of women that end up relying on each other through some very tough situations.  That's a summary of the first book.  SO, the second book takes you a little bit deeper into their friendships.  Some things happen in the first book that test their friendships and it carries on into this second book.  It takes place about 5 years after the first book ended.  Dakota is now a college student and batteling all those challanges (rebelling against parents, finding love, deciding what she wants for her future, etc).  I don't want to go into TOO much detail because you really have to read the first book to go long with the second one. 

Do I recommend this book: YES!!! BUT ONLY if you have read the first one!!!!

And guess what..............it's being made into a movie!!!! Staring Julia Roberts :) 

BeautiControl Special

I have been running a promotion that started on Memorial Day.  For every $10 you spend on BeautiControl products THROUGH Labor Day, your name will be entered into a drawing to win a basket FILLED with BeautiControl Products AS WELL AS Bath and Body Works Products and some other fun stuff!!!! BOOYA!!!!!!!!

AND there's MORE!!!!

Between NOW (August 5th, 2011) and August 7th, 201, for every $10 you spend your name will be entered TWICE!!! Why?? It's my BIRTHDAY SPECIAL!!!! August 7th is my birthday!!! 

This is a GREAT way to increase your chances!!!!

 check out http://www.beauticontrol.com/ and START SHOPPING!!!!



Check out some of my previous blogs for product reviews!!!!








Please note, this is a promotion that I am running, not the company or any other consultants. You must purchase your BeautiControl products through me to be qualified to win the basket!

Another great giveaway

Hey guys!!! I just love how everyone in the blogging community does giveaways to the followers!  Maybe when I reach 50 followers I'll do a giveaway!!! I'm ALMOST half way there!!! haha, PLEASE, if you are reading my blog...subscribe to it!!! that way you will never miss a post!!!!!  SOOOO one of my friends in this blogging world, Ashley, is doing a giveaway to thank her followers (she has over 100!).  She has some great e.l.f. products, OPI nail polish, almay eye shadows, and more!!! check it all out HERE and PLEASE, subscribe to her blog!! She has some great posts, and they aren't all beauty related!!

Birthday Wish List

My Birthday is RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER!!! My Mom asked me last night while we were at Zumba what was on my list......I hadn't really thought too much about it because I told my husband a few things that I wanted :)  SO, I thought I would make my birthday wish list!!  AND PS...I won't have THAT many candles on my birthday cake, this year!!

It seems like everyone has a crossbody bag...except me.  I'm usually a big purse kind of girl, but I would like a small crossbody bag to have with me when I'm out and about running errands.  The thing i love about Vera Bradley is she gives you SOOO many fabric options!!!  I would LOVE to go to a Vera Bradley outlet store at somepoint in my life, just haven't made it there yet.  So for now, I have to settle with Hallmark :)

My husband has tried to talk me into a nook or a kindle for about a year now, and I've always opposed the idea.  There is just something about HOLDING a book and being able to physically turn the page.  Well...I'm starting to give in!  He supposedly is going to be getting me one for my birthday.  BUT, I want to know-do you own one of these? Pro's?? Cons??

 Giftcard to Forever 21.  I REALLY like this store.  I don't have one in my town, and the majority of my purchases from Forever 21 have come from online.  I have gone into the store a small amount of times, but I really dislike the store.  I get really bad anxiety when I go in there because I am soo overwhelmed with the merchanidse!! It is litterally EVERYWHERE!! I feeel like there is no organization to it.  SO, give me a giftcard and I'll shop online :)

A girl can always use a giftcard to Ulta :)  Again, I don't have an Ulta in my town (I know....we are so deprived here in Q-TOWN!).  The closest one to me is about 1 1/2 hours away. 

 Black workout pants or tight capris!  I HATE wearing shorts to workout in!  ESPECIALLY since my workout is usually Zumba, I like the black pants because they are just like jazz pants and I just think as a dancer these are the best!  Please note, this is NOT me in the picture!! Even if I sucked in my stomach, it still wouln't be that flat and I would have some love handles as well!! LOL

This is the 3rd book (and last I believe) in a series that I started reading.  I bought the first book probably 2 years ago.  Then, when I was Christmas shopping at Border's this past season, they had the second book (hardback) for $6.  At that point, I hadn't even read the first, but couldn't pass up that deal.  SO, I just recently found out there was a 3rd book in the series, so I would really like to get my hands on it.  I ALSO heard it was being made into a movie staring Julia Roberts!  Now, if I am to get the kindle or nook...let's not waste our money buying Laura this book...we'll just purchase it for one of those devices :)  Has anyone else read this series??

A Water Bobble!!! I JUST learned about this!!!! I think it is sooo cool that you have a FILTER inside your water bottle!!! This PINK one is from GNC.  I think I would want the middle sized one...the 18.5 one.  You can also purchase replacement filters.  SOOO, you are stylish, drinking FILTERED water, and being eco-friendly :)  It's a win, win for all!!!

That's all I have on my list!!  I'm perfectly OK with not getting any presents on my birthday (I'm not going to turn them down though LOL).  I'm content with just doing to dinner with friends and family and calling it a night.  PLUS, my birthday is on a Sunday this year, and I start a clinical that very next day.  Anyways-what do you usually do for your birthday??

A fellow blogger needs followers!!

Hey friends!!! I know I don't have many 'followers' according to my GFC over there on the side....but a fellow blogger has less than me, and I'd love to help her out!!!  please check out her blog HERE.  She is running a contest right now to get more followers to.  PLEASE leave in the comment that I sent you there!!!  And send some my way, too ;)

Would you Rather.....

I saw this post by Elle Fowler on Elle and Blair's discussion forum and thought it would be a fun little activitiy to do!

Leave your answers to the following questions in the comments below:




1.Would you rather walk around all day with you skirt tucked in your underwear or be seen wearing a really see through dress?

Oh my....ummm I'm going to go with skirt tucked into my underwear (and hopefully I'm wearing cute underwear that day!!)


2.Would you rather go to a party and not realize until the end of the night that you have lipstick on your teeth or that your fake lashes are coming unglued?

Ugh...I would really hope that someone at the party would tell me if either one of these was occuring!! I'm going to go with fake lashes coming unglued.
3.Would you rather forget to put mascara on one eye or forget blush on one side of your face?

Mascara....going to be way less noticable!!!!


4.Would you rather wear lipstick/lipliner combo or frosty blue eyeshadow?

DUH-lipstick/lipliner combo!
5.Would you rather wear foundation that is two shades too light or go way overboard on bronzer?

hmmm.....foundation that is two shades too light.

6.Would you rather drink an entire bottle of ketchup or run into the guy who broke your heart on a bad hair day when your skin is freaking out?

ew to both of these.  I'd go with the guy who broke my heart on a bad hair day when my skin is freaking out. LOL!! I like ketchup, but not that much!!

7.Would you rather be able to date any celeb you wanted or wake up with perfect red carpet-worthy hair?

date any celeb I wanted :)
8.Would you rather your armpits smell musky or like delicious lasagna?

ew-I don't like either one of these options!! I'm going to with deliscious lasagna!

9.Would you rather give up your makeup or cell phone for one year?

Man, these are some hard questions!! I'd choose makeup.... :(

10.Would you rather run into a cute guy you like with food all in your grill or no makeup at all?

No makeup at all!

MakeupMonologue's Give Away

I LOVE finding new blogs!! And with the community here in the blogworld, there is always a new blog just right around the corner!!  I stumbled across MakeupMonologue's blog thanks to another blog that I follow regularly.  She is doing an AWESOME giveaway for her followers because she has gained so many!!!  SHE HAS ALMOST 700............I HAVE 17!! COME ON NOW!! LOL  Check out her blog...she's got some really good tips/tricks/advice!!

What is she giving away:



Urban Decay's Naked Palette!!!!!!!!
Hello?!?! You all know how awesome of a prize that would be!!!!

The second prize is:


e.l.f. candid coral blush and e.l.f. lip balm in nice and neutral
I have just recently become a fan of the e.l.f. line so I would be stoked to win this!!!

Top 10 for June

 BareMinerals Matte Foundation in Light
I purchased this the last time I went to Ulta!  I blogged about it an an Ulta Haul Blog Post.  I am LOVING this!!! It goes on SOOO well!!!  You really wouldn't think that a powder foundation would give you so much coverage!  I was IMPRESSED!  What I really like about it is it has a slider thing (you can see it in the picture) that you can turn so it covers the holes so our product does come out all over the place!  GENIUS!! 

 BareMinerals Mineral Veil
I also picked this up the last time I went to Ulta and blogged about it in my Ulta Haul.  I love this product as well!!!  Obviously...it's in my favorites :)  The mineral veil comes in several different 'types' but I just wanted the sheer to be my finishing/setting powder.  This does a great job at giving you the finished look.  It also has that slider thing that rotates to cover the holes.

Victoria's Secret Shampoo-So Sexy Volume
I am sure every hair dresser will cringe when they see this because it isn't one of the name brand shampoo's, but I DON'T CARE :)  I was skeptical about using it, but my friend has used VS hair care products in the past and gives them high reviews.  Well, let me tell you, this is an awesome shampoo!! You do not need a lot of it because it lathers up really well!! It definitely adds volume and body to my hair and added bonus-it smells awesome!  I have the conditioner, but have not started using it yet as I was finishing up a conditioner from Lush.



Crown Brush Blush Palatte
I purchased this off of HauteLook.  It retails for $39.88 and I purchased it for $15!!!  BOOYA!!! This is a GREAT Blush Palatte.  it contains both matte and shimmer blushes.  I use the darker ones for contouring and for a bronzer.  There is a great mix of colors here and they are pretty pigmented! 







 Lemon and Pomegranate Scrube from Bath and Body Works
 I bought this at the JANUARY Semi-Anual sale and just started to use it.  My Bath and Body Works store had it back for the June Sale at 50% off.  I LOVE THIS!! The smell is AWESOME and I'm usually not a big lemon fan!! You don't have to use a lof ot product (bonus) and it has just the right amount of texture to be a scrub...not harsh on my skin AT ALL!


 Crown Brush 28 Neutral EyeShadow Palette.
I also purchased this from HauteLook the same time I purchased the blush palette.  This, also, is a great palette!  I have used just about every color in here since I have gotten it.  This has become my go to eye color.  I work in Physical Therapy and don't really want to do outrageous colors, but I'm also not a person that would do that anyways LOL BUT, this is PERFECT!!!  It retails for $49.88 and I purchased it for maybe $16...how about that!?!?!

 e.l.f. Concealer Brush
e.l.f. recently had an online promotion that when you spent $20 you would receive their 12 piece brush kit for only $1.20 (normally $12).  I have heard soo many good things about this brand, and it's priced really low!  SO, I figured this would be a good chance to try some stuff out.  I haven't used all of the brushes yet (they are waiting as backups), but this brush is great!! I use it for my undereye concealer!  Who knew a brush could do something so wonderful haha

 Andis Flat Iron-purchased at Shop-Ko SEVERAL years ago
Weird that something I have had for so long can be a favorite! I use a flat iron pretty much every day.  BUT thanks to JuicyStar07 on YouTube, I can now use this to CURL my hair!!!  The curls last MUCH longer than they do with a regular curling iron.  I HIGHLY recommend curling your hair with your flat iron, BUT you have to make sure your flat iron heats up on the outside.  Click HERE for JuicyStar07's tutorial on how to curl your hair using the flat iron!

 Joico Root Booster-purchased at Ulta
I had been using Big Sexy Hair Rootbooster, but I wanted to find something that was a little bit cheaper....umm Joica was maybe like $2 cheaper....FAIL LOL anyways-I really like this Root Booster MUCH BETTER than the Big Sexy Hair booster.  The BSH left a bit of a residue in my hair and I felt like it didn't give me much of a boost.  The Joico smells phenomenal and it definitely gives me the boost AND it lasts throughout the day!!!  I MIGHT see if I can still find something a little bit cheaper (this was probably $17ish), but if not, I would definitely buy the Joico again!

BeautiControl Secret Agent Foundation in P3
I recently did a review on this foundation, you can read it HERE.  Now, since I have been using the BareMinerals foundation, I don't use the BC foundation every day.  This is my 'special' foundation.  I use this whenever I have a wedding to go to, or going out on the town, or something else along those lines.  I'm not sure why I use this for those occasions over the BareMinerals, I just do :)

Origins Skin Care

Tomorrow-July 1st, 2011 I am starting a whole new skin care routine!  I really hope this is going to be the cure-all to my oily skin, and I'm not gonna lie-I have confidence that this is going to do the trick!  I know I have mentioned it a gazillion times, but I have been doing SO much research on skin care for oily skin. 

So what is Origins? Their website is sooo user friendly!  You search for products based on skin care concerns, their star collection, daily essentials, must haves (and this is broken down by user favorites, best buys, best sellers, etc). 

Origins makes products by NATURE!! NO PARABENS! Their products and packing are made from recycled products and are even shipped using recycled packaging!!

I purchased mine online.  You can find them at Macy's Department Stores (not sure of anywhere else).

What will I be trying?  I just wanted to try a few products that I felt, based on research of my own, were what I needed.  I purchased a cleanser and a moisturizer and received a free sample of an exfoliator.

Cleanser:

Zero Oil $18.50 5 fl. oz
Deep pore cleanser with Saw Palmetto and Mint.
It has 4/5 stars on the website with 92 reviews.
What Origins Says:
This maximum-strength, gently foaming cleanser formulated with skin-clearing Saw Palmetto, cooling Mint and pore-minimizing Salicylic Acid helps clear pores, eliminate excess oil and reduce shine. Leaves skin tingly clean and refreshed.
Use AM and PM. Best for Acne and Oil Control and Oily Skin.
Personal First Thoughts: HELLO!?! Why wouldn't I want to try this for my oily skin!!!



Moisturizer:

VitaZing SPF 15 Energy Boosting Moisturizer $35.00 1.7 fl. oz
4.4/5 stars on the website with 99 reviews
What Origins Says:

√ 95% said skin looked energized
√ 83% instantly saw more radiant skin

This multi-tasking moisturizer handles the vital jobs of hydrating, energizing and protecting to maintain skin's momentum all day. Gives skin the refreshing zing of antioxidant-rich Mangosteen. And adds a healthy hit of radiance that mimics the glow you get from a week's vacation. All in 10 seconds max.  Slip it on first thing tomorrow - you'll look like you eat right, sleep tight & don't
have a worry in sight.  Best for all skin types.

Personal First Thoughts: Holy S@#$! That's an expensive MOISTURIZER!! However, it had SUCH good reviews!!! The only negative was people not liking the tint/glow it gave them, but the positives outweighed the negative.  I read several blogs and watched several YouTube videos and the majority SWEAR by it AND said this bottle lasted at least 3 months!

Sample Scrub:

My sample was in the green packet and it's Modern Friction
With my order, I was able to pick 1 of 3 samples.
This has 5/5 stars on the website!!
It's described as nature's dermabrasion.
I'm not going to go into much detail with this now, look for my review!






SO, If you do your research on Origin's, you'll see that each 'line' has something for every skin routine (scrub, cleanser, toner, moisturizer, etc).  I explored several different lines based on reviews I have read.  Many liked using the Zero Oil Cleanser with the Vita Zing Moisturizer.  SOOO we will try it!! 

Be looking for a review on this in ONE MONTH!

Award!!!!

BOOYA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I received MY FIRST AWARD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you ASHLEY at Intro to Beauty for presenting this to me!!!  ALEX from Beauty in Bloom also awarded it to me!!!!  PLEASE, check out their blog!!!  AWESOME advice and reviews!!!!

isn't she cute?!?!?!

Award Rules:

1) Link back to the person that awarded this to you. 

See above :)

 

2) Share 7 random things about yourself:

     * I have a scar on my right cheek because when I was about 2 years old I had a spitz nevus which is a skin lesion that affects the epidermis and dermis (first two layers of the skin) an is basically this red bump. SO, our family doctor recommended a specialist in Springfield, IL to remove it from the inside of my cheek SO I WOULDN'T HAVE A SCAR...... I usually tell people I was in a knife fight :)

     * I have a niece and nephew that live in Germany and I only get to see them once a year

     * I was a member of the Quincy Notre Dame High School Pom Pon Squad and later coached it for 3 years.

     * I was a member of the first ever Classy Cats Dance Team at Culver-Stockton College and later coached it for 2 years.

     * I am not a fan of cherry flavored things because it reminds me too much of a medicine...however I do like UV Cherry Vodka and Maraschino Cherries..BUT THAT'S IT!!

     * I envy girls who can walk around in short shorts and not have to suck their stomachs in

     * The piercing in my left ear is slowly splitting :( Therefore, I can only wear stud earrings.

 3) Award to other blogs!

Country Love this is my best friends' blog...check her out!

Gibbons Girls this is my sister-in-laws blog...she blogs about her life as a stay at home mom with twin 2 year old girls and a 9 year old girl (very comical!!!)

Juicy Conoir my new friend in the blog world, Jennifer!

Whine & Cheez Kristi is from my hometown and we took dance together.  Her blogs are HILARIOUS!!!!!  This is one you HAVE to check out AND subscribe to!!!

4) Answer the following questions:

-Favorite Color: PINK!!

-Favorite Song: Hmm right now I am loving Barefoot Blue Jean Night by Jake Owen

-Your favorite dessert:hmm this is a tough one-Pecan Pie (and it has to be warm) with Cool Whip

-What is pissing you off: My grade in my Theapeutic Exercise Class

-When you 're upset, you: cry and my chest breaks out into hives!!

-Your favorite pet: I can't pick one!! I have 3!!!  Princess is a Siamese/Calico, Wrigley is an Orange Tabby, and Bow is a Chocolate Lab.

-Black or White: Black

-Biggest fear: I recently have noticed a fear of heights

-Best feature: Ugh, pick something on me??? That I am compassionate

-Everyday attitude: Pretty positive

-What is perfection: going to bed at night knowing my day was productive and with a smile on my face :)

-Guilty pleasure:YouTube Videos of make-up :)

I love that this award is interactive and isn't just a badge you slap on your blog!!! Thanks again, Ashley and Alex!!!

Give Away!

Check out this blog I have recently started following!!!! Great tips and ideas AND she is doing a give away RIGHT NOW!!!

CLICK HERE and look for her Thank You Give Away!!!!

New Foundation Review

So as you know, if you read my blog regularly, I have been STRUGGLING with OILY SKIN for the past 4 months or so.  Also, as many of you know if you read my blog regularly, you know that I sell BeautiControl.  I thought I would try out a liquid foundation.  I had previously been using a moose foundation that I really liked, but of course-was trying to experiment with my oily skin.

So what did I try??

BeautiControl's Select Agent Undercover Make-Up in the shade P3

1 oz

$16.00

Now, honestly...I don't use this every day.  I go back and forth between this and Bare Escentuals.  When I do use it, I use a foundation brush to apply it because I don't want to touch my face with my bare hands if I don't have to (excess oil).  

I do really like it!!!  It goes on very matte, lasts all day, and you don't need a whole lot of product to cover your face.  

One of the MAJOR BONUSES of BeautiControl is you get sooo much product...it lasts FOREVER!!!!

Please read by blog HERE about my special I have going on with BeautiControl through Labor Day.

I WILL BE PLACING AN ORDER 

SUNDAY, JUNE 26TH!!!!

Get to Know Me TAG

This is a Get to Know Me TAG that I was asked to fill out.  Feel free to do the same and post in the comments below, or add it to your own blog!

ALSO-PLEASE subscribe to my blog!!! Would love to have you as a follower!!!

1. Is it cute when guys kiss you on your forehead? yes!



2. A big poofy dress or a short party dress? party dress..I know! That might surprise some of you!


3. Are diamonds a girls best friend? Hmmm.....not gonna lie-I wouldn't mind a few more BLINGS to my wedding ring...but I don't know if I would say Diamonds are a girls best friend...I really don't know what IS! Good Question............

 4. Is your hair up or down today? half up and half down

 5. Do you straighten your hair? majority of the time I do!

 6. Favorite mascara? I don't have a mascara that I have consistently repurcahsed, right now I go back and forth between Maybelline's Falsies (the purple tube) and BeautiControl's Spectaculash

 7. Do you get your nails done? I used to on a regular basis, but now I do them myself.  I get a pedicure more frequently then a manicure, and even the pedicure isn't that often!


8. Small or large purses? LARGE!  As my husband would say, it's my carry on or a diaper bag!

 9. Jeans or sweats? sweats at home, jeans in public


10. Do you wear clothes/shoes/jewelry thats uncomfortable? clothes and jewelry I have never had a problem with, SHOES on the other hand...yes I will wear them KNOWING how uncomfortable they were on my feet the previous time I wore them and STILL wear them!

 11. Do you text message a lot? absolutely!12. Whats your favorite color? PINK!

 13. Heels or flats? Heels when possible, but for work and school-it's flats

 14. Would you ever leave the house without make-up on? I have left without having my "FULL" make-up on

 15. Walmart or Target? I would prefer Target, but my town only has Wal-Mart.  It's really not as bad as everyone makes it out to be though!

 16. Do you think lip gloss is the best!? Ummm...well-that's usually all I ever where on my lips...don't really do lipsticks so I guess YES?

 17. Do you own any big sunglasses? SEVERAL

 18. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? For sure an hour, but if I have the time, I would take 2!

 19. Gold or silver? I've always been a white gold/silver type of a girl, but am starting to transition to some gold pieces, thank you Mandy!

 20. Do you like to wear dresseses? YES!! But weird thing-I don't really care to wear shorts-weird??

 21. In the last 48 hours have you hung out with a guy? Yes, that guy would be my husband :)

 22. Do you like to hold hands? Yes!

 23. What do you notice when you first meet a guy? Their Smile :)

 24. Do you like making eye contact? YES! Unless you don't want someone to see you then NO!

 25. Would you kill for chocolate? Kill? That's kinda drastic!

 26. On a scale from 1-10 how fun is shopping? 9..it would be a 10 if it was with someone else's money :) now, grocery shopping would be like a 2


27. Do you yell a lot? Hmm I don't think so

 28. Do you wear sweatpants/pajamas to school/work? To school when we have to be in 'lab attire'.

29. Have you ever dressed unlike yourself to impress a guy? I've always dressed like myself, but maybe just gone over the top?? or put more thought into it??

30. What makeup could you not live w/ out? foundation, mascara


31. Do you fall in love easily? I used to...until I found that ONE LOVE!

 32. Do you have cramps? This is getting kinda personal....yes

 33. Do you think you have the bestest friend ever? DUH!!! Have you MET my best friends??

Ulta Haul!!

 

So, this past weekend we were out of town for a friend's wedding in a small town just outside of Springfield, IL.  On Sunday, we stopped in Springfield because our boys (my Husband, Matt and Nikki's husband, Jayson) wanted to eat at Cracker Barrell.  SO, to make the score even, us girls (Nikki, Mandy, and myself) had them drop us off at Ulta :)  Fair trade, right?!?!  Anyways, here is what I picked up:

Bare Essentials Matte Foundation SPF15 in Light

 Mandy has been using this brand of make-up for a few months and really likes it!!  I, as you know if you follow my blog regulary, have been doing tons of research for my oily skin.  This product line was recommended by a lot of people, and I thought it would make sense to use a powder foundation...to help soak up the oil!  SO, I used it today, but won't give a review until I use it a few more times!  *This is a stock image*

                                  
Bare Essentials Mineral Veil  

This is just a finishing powder to put on over top of your make-up to help set it.  It is translucent (at least the one that I bought is, you can get it it colored or with SPF, but I just wanted a translucent setting powder).  Again, used it today for the first time, but will give you a review down the road.  

*With the Bare Essentials purchase I received a free silver credit card holder.  It's cute, but I probably won't use it...so if you get that as a gift...umm you should feel lucky?!?! LOL

                                          
Physician's Formula Happy Boost Powder in Translucent. 

EmilyNoel83 on YouTube recommended this has a highlighter.  I have been using Mary Kay's Facial Highlighting Pen for YEARS and just decided I wanted to try something different.  I felt as if the MK product wasn't doing what it had done when I first started using it.  I used this today, and......IDK.  I don't feel it's doing the highlighting that I wanted it to.  I wanted to ask an associate at Ulta to help me find a highlighter, but there were none to be found.  Sure-they were all willing to help when we first walked in and I didn't need any help.  I would like to try Benefit's Moon Bean or High Beam.  Has anyone used either of these?!?!

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencils in Iced Mocha and Strawberry Milk. 

NYX cosmets were buy one get one 1/2 off.  I had seen a lot of people using these pencils in tutorials either as bases or for color.  With this sale, I thought it would be a good opportunity try it out.  I used the Strawberry Milk today as I did kind of a pink look on my eyes and I really liked it!  Little bit of a shine!  We will see what happens the next few times I use it as well as the Iced Mocha. *This is a stock image, the two colors I purchased are right in the middle*

Basically U Nail Polish Remover                                                                   This is Ulta's brand of nail polish remover.,  I am just about out of my remover and I just figured while I was there I would go ahead and pick it up!  Nothing much to say other than that LOL :)

So that's it!  We could've spent SO MUCH more time in there, but the boys were getting ansy...NO they didn't go in with us, they went and got gas and went to Kohl's and then just hung out in the car.

Top 10 for May

Hey Followers!!! As promised, here is my TOP 10 for the Month of MAY! Let me know if you have tried any products mentioned or if you have any products you recommend!!!!!

GEL EYELINERS! MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack and Dip Down $15.00 each at MAC Cosmetics

Yes, it makes an appearance again in my May Favorites!! I learned about gel liners from watching the YouTube Beauty Guru's I mentioned above. Gel Eyeliners are not at all what I expected! LOVE THEM! I will probably never go back to a pencil or liquid eye liner again...well I will use the ones that I have left, but won't buy anymore! These go on sooo smooth, STAY on, do not flake, look amazing!!! I mentioned in my April favorites that I had a Maybelline Gel Liner. I really didn't need two black gel eyelines, so I gave it to my friend, Nikki. I don't notice a difference between the Maybelline or the MAC, so for the price, go for the Maybelline since it's cheaper, and if you live by me-more easily accessible at a drug store versus the MAC products which you would either have to order online or go to a MAC store.

John Frieda Sheer Blonde Go Blonder Controlled Lightening Spray $8.97 at Wal-Mart
So, usually in the summer I am out in the sun A LOT! We usually go out on the river every weekend. Well, this summer, I probably won't go out a single time let a lone be out in the sun because I am class over the summer! I found this product, recommended by MakeUpByTiffanyD on YouTube. You spray it on your clean wet hair. I spray it around hairlineand then flip my head over and spray the hair at the base of my neck, spray my part, and then spray all over. When you use heat on your hair (blow dry, flat iron, curling iron) the heat reacts with the product and lightens your hair. I noticed a change IMMEDIATELY. I just finished using a product from Lush called Marilyn which is for Blondes and is supposed to lighten your hair. I used it four times and left it in for about 45 minutes each time and did not notice a change what so ever and it was about $15 more. I totally recommend this product, BUT it only works on BLONDES!!



Sally Hansen Nail Strips in Groovy Baby $8.50 at Wal-Mart
I saw these strips probably 2 months ago at Wal-Greens and looked at them and just thought they were nail stickers for little kids LOL!  Well, JuicyStar07 had them on in one of her videos and raved about them.  SO, I searched a little more on YouTube and some blogs and found really good reviews about them.  I bought these and the lace ones at the same time.  It took 2-3 nails for me to get the hang of it and then it was really easy to finish off!  I applied a top coat over the top because a lot of the reviews said to do that to help prevent chipping.  The strips lasted 10 days, just like the box said, but they could've lasted longer, but I wanted to change up my nails!  I went back to Wal-Mart and bought Cheetah print ones to wear to a wedding this weekend.  I TOTALLY recommend these!!!!!!!!

Too Faced Natural Eye Palette $38.00 from Ulta
Back again for the month of MAY! Another recommendation from YouTube Friends!! This is THE BEST palette to create natural eyes! It comes with 9 different eye shadows. It also comes with 3 look cards to help you create different eye looks, and it comes with an applicator (which I have yet to use!) I have played around with this quite a bit and created my own looks. I LOVE IT!!! I've gotten SOOOO many compliments when I use this on my eyes!!! BOOYA!!!! It's nice to be complimented!!!! There is a website: http://www.hautelook.com/ they offer deals on lots of high end things such as fashion, make-up, shoes, trips, etc. They recently had a deal with a company called Crown Brush. I ordered a 28 Neutral Palette for $17.00 (normally $49.88) and a 10 Color Matte and Shimmer blush set (which two of them I will use as bronzers) for $14.00 (normally $39.88) I will let you all know what I think about them and who knows-maybe they will be a favorite!!

 Microderm Abrasion Brush $9.50 from BeautiControl
First off......This brush is ONLY $9.50!!!!  Seriously!!! There are a lot of brushes out there because this seems to be the new craze and they are soo much more expensive!! BeautiControl has had this brush around for YEARS!  I use this once a week as a microderm abrasion treatment, but I use it EVERYDAY as part of my skin care routine.  To read more about how I use it click HERE  If you want to order one-LET ME KNOW :)

OPI San Tan-Tonio various prices...I bought mine at Ulta

I LOVE this color!!! Totally out of my box because I'm more of a PINK girl!! BUT, I was just drawn to this color because it is SOOO different!!! I get compliments on this all of the time!!! I truly believe that certain nail polishes only look good on certain skin types! AND I know this is more of a fall color with it being a brown shade, but I don't care-I'm wearing it whenever I want to!!! :)






OPI Sweetheart various prices...I purchased mine at my nail salon.
 I first saw this color on (again) JuicyStar07.  I LOVE this color!!!  It is just a very pale pink, a lot like the pink you might get on your nails if you were to get a french manicure.  It's that type of color that if you want a bit of color on your nails, but don't want a color that screams look at my nails!!!  I almost always alternate between this and San Tan-Tonio!

 Neutrogena Make-Up Remover Wipes $5.94 at Ulta or any DrugStore
WHY did I not know about these things SOONER!!! My face is WAY to sensitive to go through my full wash my face routine.  THESE are PERFECT at night!!!  For me, I almost feel like the wipe is too big!! I really could get by with only using one!  I just purchased the night calming wipes which are in the purple package and just have a lavender scent to them, but haven't started using them yet.  I HIGHLY recommend adding this into your skin care routine!!

 Tinted Moisturizer in Medium $20 from BeautiControl
I received this in my kit when I first started selling BeautiControl and honestly had forgotten about it..  I saw several YouTubers using a Tinted moisturizer during warm weathered months and also those who have oily skin.  SO, I started using this and I really like it as an option for foundation!! On days that I wear this, I DO NOT moisturize my face!  This gives you a good glow throughout the day and is LIGHTWEIGHT!!!

Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Masque $30.00 from Ulta
YET another repeat from my April Top 10!! Hey, there's a reason it's my favorite!  Again, another recommendation from YouTube Beauty Gurus! This is a hair conditioner for dry, damaged hair. The directions are to use this 2 times a week, which is what I do. I have read reviews that some people use this every day!! For me, using it twice a week works just fine! You use this AFTER you shampoo and condition. You apply to your hair just like you would a conditioner and then use a widetooth comb on your hair to get the conditioner really worked in. Leave it in for AT LEAST 7 minutes. It comes out SOOOO soft and shiny!!!!  AND you can still feel the results the next day-BONUS!!!!

There you have it!!! My TOP TEN for the month of MAY on the 10th :)  Be sure to check out my BeautiControl Deal by clicking HERE!  

What are some of your favorite products????

Updated Skin Care

So, I had a post a few months ago about my skin care routine.  I have changed it up with the new BeautiControl BC SPA facial.  I started using this sooner than I wanted to.  

My skin has been SUPER oily the past few months, and I COULD NOT figure out WHY!  The ONLY new product I had been using on my face was a face primer and I stopped using it for a little over a week and that didn't do the trick.  

SO, I switched out my skincare line and also asked an esthetician to help me with my problem.  She is also a BeautiControl consultant!  She recommended using our microderm abrasion brush with the cleanser instead of using my hands.  I have actually been using it with my exfoliator and with the cleansing gel.  I then follow up with the toner and then sometimes I will use the moisturizer and sometimes I will use a tinted moisturizer.  At night, I only use my eye-make up remover and Neutrogena Make-Up Remover Wipes.  I also give myself a microderm abrasion once a week because my skin is SUPER SENSITIVE.  I also use a face mask once a week as well.  I have one night a week that is my pampering night-bubble bath, book, glass of wine, lighted candle, face mask, microderm abrasion.  EVERY GIRL NEEDS THIS :)  

SO, I have been doing this FULL routine with the NEW skin care for about 2 weeks now.  My skin is STILL oily, but on the days I use the tinted moisturizer it isn't as oily.  SO, I have been doing TONS of research on blogs and on YouTube to try and find what skin care works THE BEST for oily skin.  I decided to try a line called Origins...click HERE to visit their website.  I ordered a cleanser and a moisturizer and then received a free sample of a scrub.  I HAVE NOT USED THESE PRODUCTS YET.  I will post a review and let you all know what I think of it!

Skin Care Products I am CURRENTLY using: 

This is the microderm brush that I use with the exfoliator and cleanser you will see below.  This comes with two brushes.  It has two settings, gentle and normal.  I use the gentle setting and it's even a little harsh for me, but it gets the job done!  I would hate to see what the normal setting feels like on my face, but again-I have sensitive skin.  It is available from BeautiControl for $9.50!!!!  This is seriously such a good price for just the brush!!!  Now, the BC Spa Resurface Microderm Abrasion for Face is $44.00.  With this product, a little goes a long way.  You do not need a lot, and like I said above, I only use this once a week.  If you purchase them both together it sells for $53.50, well....that's not a saving! LOL! Usually when you purchase the set, it's cheaper.  Ok then..... 



This is the BC Spa Facial Purifying Exfoliating Polish for $32.  This is my very first step to my skin care routine.  You apply this to a wet face.  I put a small dab on my chin, both cheeks, and forehead.  I then take the microderm brush on the gentle setting and work the polish all over my face.  I do this for about 15-30 seconds...you will just "feel" when the time is right to be done.  After using the polish, rinse off with a wet wash cloth.  I have learned the less I can touch my face with my bare hands, the better!  In comparison to the scrub in my previous skin care line, I like this one BETTER!  I do not feel it is as HARSH and as abrasive as the other one.  Again, I have sensitive skin and that could be a reason!

 This is the cleansing gel and the second step to my skin care routine.  I apply this directly onto my microderm brush.  I set the brush to the gentle setting and work this all over my face.  I will even go under my chin and onto my neck just a little bit.  The past 2-3 times I have used this, the product has gotten in my right eye.  I don't understand what it is, but it's been my right eye each time...and let me tell you-NOT PLEASANT!  I really like this cleanser BETTER than the foaming cleanser I was using previously.  However, I did NOT use the foaming cleanser with the microderm brush, so that could be what makes the difference.  The BC Spa Facial Purifying Cleansing Gel retails for $24.00



 This is the BC Spa Facial Regenerating Tonic with AHA's for $24.00.  I will drench a cotton square in this and rub it all over my face and neck.  This helps get off any little bit of dirt and grim you might have left over on your face after cleaning it with the microderm brush.  The Tonic also feels really cool and refreshing on your face and helps to 'lift it' and tone things up a bit!  In comparison to the toner from my previous BeautiControl Skin Care, I do not see a difference between the two.

 The last step in my morning skin care routine is to use the BC Spa Facial Defend and Restore Moisture Lotion with SPF 20 $32.00.  This you just apply over your face.  You do not need a lot of product!!  I always like when a face moisturizer contains SPF and BONUS this one has an SPF of 20, most of the ones I have seen are a SPF of 15.  In comparison to the moisturizer in my previous skin care like, I like this one better.  I feel that it isn't as greasy and just feels more moisturizing.


This is the eye-make up remover that I am currently using.  I have been using the Mary Kay Eye Make up Remover for probably 6 years and I really like it!  I do have BeautiControl's lash and lid bath eye make up remover, I just haven't used it yet.  I KNOW, it's bad since I sell BeautiControl, but at least I am honest!! You can purchase this from a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant for $15

This is the clay mask I use once a week. I purchased it at Wal-Mart and I don't recall the price, and I cannot find it on their website, but I want to say it wasn't any more than $3.  I LOVE the smell of it!!  It's avocado and oatmeal.  It goes on that classic grey/green color that we all think of when you think of a face mask!  You have to apply it pretty quick because it does harden up fast!  You leave it on until you feel it get really tight on your face and then just wash it off with warm water!!

 These are the Neutrogena Make-Up Remove Wipes I use at night.  I purchased mine at Ulta for around $7, but you can get them at any drugstore.  there are 25 in a pack and I purchased mine with a plastic container to keep them in.  I recently purchased the purple package which is the Night Calming style, but I haven not used them yet.  I use 1 sheet all over my face at night to remove my make up.  I will also use it on my lashes to remove any 'left over' mascara that my eye make-up remover failed to get. 



So that is it!!!  Remember to check out BeautiControl's Website to see all of the different skin care products offered!  Also, don't forget about my BeautiControl promotion going on through Labor Day.  Check out my previous Blog Post titled "BeautiControl Announcement" for all of the information!