Moody Maria

Lady Speed Stick Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 04:40:00 +0000

I have been working out more this year - Yay for 2012 Resolutions! I am kind of on a roll and really enjoying my sweaty time at the gym. I have been walking and running on the treadmill, using hand weights, and taking some Les Mills classes. The classes are amazing and the instructors really push me. They literally scream , "Don't you dare stop!" kind of like Jillian Michaels. One of the things I have learned at the gym is who not to stand next to in class. It is sad to say but some people simply don't wear deodorant at the gym. I understand not waking up to get ready for the gym or wanting to wear makeup but deodorant is kind of a must in my book. Do you wear makeup at the gym? I do and you can see why in this article.

One deodorant I recently tried was Lady Speed Stick Fresh Illusions in Rainkissed Waterlily. I am as picky about how my deodorants smell as I am my perfume or lotion. I stand in the aisle and smell them all and then make my boys smell them all. They are so used to it and just as picky as me. I just love this scent. The actual deodorant works great, lasts all day, and does not stain my clothes.

Try it, you might like it too!

Here is the website: http://www.colgate.com/app/LadySpeedStick/US/EN/HomePage.cvsp

*Nothing to disclose, this was purchased at my local grocery store with a coupon :)

Mary Kay Satin Hands Pampering Set Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:42:00 +0000

I love all sorts of lotion. I think it's because I live in a very dry climate and my skin usually resembles a lizard or a female construction worker that works with cement. I prefer really thick moisturizing lotion for my hands, especially at night before bed. One that I have been loving the last year is the Mary Kay Fragrance-Free Satin Hands Hand Softener (that's a mouthful). I know it says Fragrance-Free but this stuff smells so good. I have no idea what is in it to make it smell so good but it is so subtle and works for me. My husband has been using it too on his dry hands.

Unfortunately, it only comes in the Satin Hands Pampering Set. Here is what is available in

the kit and how to use it:

Step 1: Use the Fragrance-Free Satin Hands® Hand Softener to help maintain skin’s natural moisture.

Step 2: Cleanse and exfoliate with one pump of Fragrance-Free Satin Hands® Satin Smoothie® Hand Scrub and warm water.

Step 3: Apply a small amount of Fragrance-Free Satin Hands® Hand Cream for instant moisturization for up to 24 hours.

It is also available in a peach-scented formula and there is a travel size available.

Here is a link to Tammy Vavala's site. I don't get commission if you use her, I just have had great luck with her. Hope you like it as much as I do!
http://www.marykay.com/tvavala/spabody/bodycare/10032362/10032362/default.aspx

Female Football Fashion Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:26:00 +0000

Look Appropriately Girly for Football Sunday

Just because you're hanging with the boys for the big game, doesn't mean you should look like them. See how to look pretty without trying too hard

This is a TotalBeauty.com beauty tips article

Step away from the CheeseHead and sweatpants. Here's how to look appropriately cute for that football party, without being called a girly girl.

See tips

Guest Post at well to do, you plus Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 20:14:00 +0000

I am so excited to be featured as a guest post at the blog, "well to do, you" today. Hop on over and check out my post on Beauty on a Budget plus enter for the $20 Target gift card. Who couldn't use that??

While you are over there, check out the Dress to Impress project. Suz really has an eye for style and makes a great model. It is amazing all the good this project does and how fun it is for the readers.

Follow well to do, you on twitter or on Facebook to keep up on her posts.

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 21:15:00 +0000

18 Best Face Cleansers

You're doing your face a disservice if you're not using one of these top-rated cleansers. See what they are now

This is a TotalBeauty.com skin care products article

Does your cleanser still leave you with mascara residue under your eyes? Does it irritate your sensitive skin? Do you still struggle with overly active oil glands? You need one of these 18 reader favorites. They'll help you put your best face forward.

Read reviews

No. 18: Clinique Liquid Facial Soap, $15

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.7

"I have combination skin that is prone to both dry patches and blackheads and this is the only cleanser I have found that does a wonderful job of keeping my pores clean without stripping my face and leaving it crepe-y or scaly looking."

No. 17: Mary Kay Creamy Cleanser 2, $12

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.8

"My face used to feel tight after washing it, but since I started using this cleanser, my skin is always soft and moist now."

No. 16: Ambi Complexion Cleansing Bar, $1.99

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.9

"This cleanser has a great fragrance and leaves your face feeling refreshed and revitalized without removing the skin's natural moisture."

Want to see what was No. 1? Click here!

Jockey Sports Bra and Purex Crystals Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:53:00 +0000

I am a member of Purex Insiders which means I get to test out Purex products which I love! Recently, the folks at Purex teamed up with Jockey to show how their Purex Crystals Fabric Softener can work great for all your sensitive clothes and how it won't harm the moisture wicking fabric found in so many sports clothing today. After all, you spend so much on your exercise gear so you want to protect it and conserve it for years to come.

I received the Jockey Tech Terry sports bra and immediately fell in love. The material was thick but not itchy, and it had the right stretch in all the right places. I felt really lucky to have been given this opportunity. I washed it right away with Purex detergent and then sprinkled my Tropical Splash Purex Crystals right in the wash as the water was filling up. My two sons do fight over who gets to sprinkle them each time I start the washer. It's really kind of cute. I love seeing boys this excited about laundry and I am sure their future spouses will love me for it.

Purex Crystals come in three scents, Lavender Blossom, Fresh Spring Waters, and Tropical Splash. I don't have a favorite as I love them all and that IS the truth. I dare you to smell them all at your local store and prove me wrong. They all smell great!

My sports bra turned out fine and I noticed it smelled great. I probably wasn't supposed to dry it but I did and have several times. It always comes out great, fits the same (no shrinkage), and smells great.

The Jockey Tech Terry sports bra comes in white or black and has a key pocket for runners who don't have a spot to carry their keys. You can get a 20% off coupon for Jockey right now to try out this sports bra for yourself. Use online or at Jockey outlet stores nationwide.

No matter what brand you use, I know Purex Crystals will be gentle on your clothing and other fine delicates. I have been using it for over a year and it's now a staple in my laundry room.

*Jockey and Purex provided free samples of their products so I could review them. However, all opinions expressed here are my own.

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:21:00 +0000

Does Your Lunch Need a Makeover?

Find out how to drop a few pounds by brown-bagging it the right way

This is a TotalBeauty.com diet article

We know the idea of packing your own lunch in the morning sounds like another to-do you don't have time for, but hear us out. We talked to top docs and dietitians, like celebrity nutritionist Kimberly Synder, who say making a few changes to your daily lunch can help cut serious calories and maybe even kick that midday sugar craving for good. Want to see how to give your ol' brown bag a makeover? Read on.

Get tips

Butternut Boutique Angry Bird Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 18:49:00 +0000

Presenting an Angry Bird Giveaway from Butternut Boutique!

One of my favorite Etsy shops is having a Facebook giveaway. Butternut Boutique is giving away a set of 3 felt Angry Birds that will be attached to a headband, ribbon clip, or ponytail holder (your choice if you win). All you have to do is "like" them on Facebook and leave a comment on the contest post (on Facebook). There are ways to earn extra entries too. Hurry because the contest ends 1/8/12 at 5pm MST.

Here is the link: http://www.facebook.com/ButternutBoutique

Good Luck!

Time to Workout!

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 11:55:00 +0000

5 Workouts Celebrities Swear By

What do Jennifer Aniston, Eva Mendes, and Reese Witherspoon have in common? These awesome exercise routines you must try

This is a TotalBeauty.com workouts for women article

Sure we'd all love to look like ol' Reese, but we don't have the funds for a personal trainer to whip us into shape every day. That's why we hunted down the best personal trainers in Hollywood and got them to share the five hottest celeb workouts -- for free. See them now.

Look like Jen

Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion Dry Shampoo Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 18:08:00 +0000

I have sampled one dry shampoo in my lifetime and wasn't convinced it was for me. That was until I tried the new Keratin Infused Dry Shampoo from Suave Professionals.

This is how I used it: Washed hair and styled on Saturday. Didn't wash hair on Sunday. Monday afternoon I used the Dry Shampoo and styled my hair. That was the second day of not washing my hair and it turned out great in my humble opinion. My hair doesn't get oily usually but it does lose it's bounce and ability to re curl after a few days. The dry shampoo seemed to be the key to restyling it and the keratin helped make it soft and smooth.

I also used the Suave Professionals Sleek Shampoo which I just love. The scent is great and the suds are perfect. I was so surprised when I used it and liked it much more than my expensive salon shampoo. I purchased this one at Target and will be going back for more.

Overall, I am very pleased with Suave Professionals and look forward to testing more of their products. They are affordable yet work just as well as the more expensive options. Bravo Suave!

*I received a sample of the dry shampoo for review

Happy New Year 2012!

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 17:55:00 +0000

3 Beauty Trends for New Year's Eve

Look stunning for the New Year with these hot makeup tips

This is a TotalBeauty.com makeup tips article

We're all bored with the smoky eye, red lip hoo-ha. For NYE, why not try a more current beauty trend? These are our three favorite picks

See them

Boots No 7 Poppy King Collection Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:21:00 +0000

Lipstick designer Poppy King has launched a line called “The Magic of Lipstick”, a group of seven accessible, affordable lipsticks and lipglosses for Boots No7, available at select Target stores and ShopBootsUSA.com.

I just adore the packaging and apparently so does Ms. King. Poppy has said the polka dots on her packaging for Boots were inspired by Marilyn Monroe’s famous beauty mark and this collection was inspired by old Hollywood glamour and film icons. These bold, sheer lip colors are intended to offer the allure of old Hollywood bombshells to the everyday woman.

Poppy King

I sampled two of the colors, Seduction and Confidence. Seduction has a berry tint and works great for any skin tone. Confidence is more of standard tint and could work as your everyday lipstick or to layer with Seduction (as I did). I just love layering colors and this is the perfect line to use that method.

So if you didn't get what you wanted from Santa, head on over to Target and treat yourself to your very own Boots No 7 lip color by Poppy King. I am sure you will love it as much as I did!

*Samples provided for review.

Christmas After Math

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 16:15:00 +0000

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas or you are having a wonderful Hanukkah! I have been enjoying time with my family and it has been great. This year was very traditional with dinners with the families, exchanging gifts, fires, movies, enjoying neighborhood lights, seeing Christmas carolers, seeing a Christmas musical, sledding on the mountain, riding on the Polar Express, making notes for Santa and Buddy the Elf, parties and plays at school, and a White Elephant exchange at work. I will look back on this year with great memories!

The one thing that remains from Christmas are those unwanted pounds!

What are you going to do about it in 2012? I am going to continue going to my gym (even when I am tired), eat more fruits and veggies, play soccer and football with my boys when we can, and take the stairs when they are available. My other motivator will be getting some sporty clothes from Lucy!

My favorite pants there are the Perfect Core Pants (Tummy Tucking wonder). It's like wearing Spanx that you can wear in public. I am always sure to wear a jacket or shirt that covers my derrière.

http://www.lucy.com/

My other mission will be to get some clothes from Nordstrom. Lora swears by the Zella brand.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/zella-shop?origin=brandindex

Of course Sports Authority has another great brand:

Under Armour

http://www.sportsauthority.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11306512&cp=3077569.3079702.2806302&lmdn=Brand&fbc=1&f=Brand%2F15354%2F&view=24&fbn=Brand%7CUnder+Armour&parentPage=family

And for shoes:

http://www.roadrunnersports.com/

I became at VIP member and haven't regretted it yet. I can usually get my favorite shoes under cost.

Although, I do buy my son's shoes from a locally owned store to support them. They are so helpful and always fit him right. They also support local running clubs and schools. Thank you Fleet Feet Sports.

http://www.fleetfeettucson.com/

So many options and so little money! Check out Old Navy, Target, Ross, and Tj Maxx for some great deals. Good luck and whatever you do, get out there and do something. Life is too short!

Last Minute Gift Idea

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:54:00 +0000

Have you received a gift from a neighbor or co-worker and need a last minute gift for them? How about a stocking stuffer? A perfect gift that everyone will love is chocolate. Not just any chocolate but homemade chocolates from Edward Marc Chocolatier.

Check out some of their holiday chocolates:

Santa's Boot in Milk or Dark Chocolate

Edward Marc Chocolatier Holiday Grinch Lollipop

Chocolate Santa

To see all of the amazing chocolates visit their website at: http://www.edwardmarc.com/.

Softlips Winter Pack Winner

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:53:00 +0000

And we have a winner........Bridgett! Please send me your mailing address to moodymaria@live.com and we will get your prize out to you right away. Thank you to everyone who entered! I am hoping 2012 will bring many more giveaways!

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:47:00 +0000

9 Unique Hostess Gifts She'll Love

Was staying at your friend's home more lavish than a 5-star resort? Show your thanks with these cute gift ideas

This is a TotalBeauty.com beauty products article

This season we're sure you'll be attending parties, visiting friends, and possibly crashing on a couch or two. To show your appreciation, make sure to send one of these useful and creative gifts along with that thank you card.

See gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:44:00 +0000

Total Beauty's Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide

Skip the "Elf" DVD and homemade scarf. We've got the perfect ideas for all your loved ones

This is a TotalBeauty.com makeup article

Have you earned a reputation for boring, generic presents wrapped in pretty boxes (that fool no one)? We get buying thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list can be tedious, so we did the thinking for you! You can thank us later.

Get ideas

Softlips Holiday Winter Pack Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:26:00 +0000

Happy December everyone! Just in the nick of time for winter, Softlips has released it's Winter Flavors. I am so happy too because it's finally getting cold here in the desert and my lips are dry. I tend to use lipstick in the morning and layer it with Softlips. I then carry Softlips in my purse and reapply as needed. Softlips is also a must have on my nightstand. I love to keep Softlips in my purse, in my car center console, in my desk drawer at work, my makeup bag, and of course one for each of my son's in the nightstand drawer. Kids love Softlips too! They are the perfect holiday gift or stocking stuffer.

For more great tips on giving the gift of beauty this holiday season, watch this video featuring Jenn Falik, beauty and style expert. To view the new Softlips video, "So Merry. So you." click here.

The winter flavors include: Winter Mint, Sugar Cookie, Sugar Plum Berry, and Sugar and Spice. I have to admit Sugar Cookie is my personal favorite.

Now for the Good News! Softlips is offering one prize pack including all four winter flavors to one Moody Maria reader. Enter today by leaving a comment with your name and email. Entries will be accepted through 12/8/11 at 11:59PST. US Only. For additional entries become a Facebook fan of Moody Maria (1 pt), become a Facebook fan of Softlips (1 pt) or refer a friend to comment here and have them list your name as the referral. Good Luck!

*Softlips is sponsoring this review and giveaway.

Happy Thanksgiving

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 14:07:00 +0000

Happy Thanksgiving from Moody Maria! I am so thankful for my family and good health. I am also thankful for my readers and for having the opportunity to speak my mind on this little piece of cyberland.

As a little food eye candy I will present you with the Thanksgiving Dozen from Georgetown Cupcake. Look at these Thanksgiving inspired cupcakes....yum.

Here are the flavors in their Thanksgiving Dozen:
Caramel Apple: Fresh Apple Cupcake with a dulce de leche core topped with a vanilla cream cheese frosting and a dulce de leche star drizzle
Maple Chocolate Chip: Maple cupcake studded with chocolate chips and topped with a maple cream cheese frosting and a fondant maple leaf
Chocolate Squared: Georgetown Cupcake's Classic Chocolate topped with turkey fondant decorations.
Pumpkin Spice: Pumpkin Spice cupcake with a maple-infused cream cheese frosting topped with a fondant maple leaf.

Price: $29 per dozen ($55 including nationwide overnight shipping). You can order them at: http://www.georgetowncupcake.com/

Keep their website as one of your favorites as you know they will have some great new flavors for the upcoming holiday season. Wouldn't Georgetown Cupcakes be a delightful hostess gift or a hit at an office party?

Save Money by Trimming your Own Bangs

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:55:00 +0000

How to Trim Your Bangs at Home

Sick of spending your hard-earned money every month on bang trims? Skip the salon and do them at home with these pro tips

This is a TotalBeauty.com hair care article

Sure, you'd love to trim your bangs yourself -- but the risk factor of looking like Courtney Love pre-makeover is high. We feel you, which is why we talked to Giovanni Vaccaro, hair guru at the Frederic Fekkai Salon in New York City. He shares his no-fail DIY bang-trimming tips.

See them

Online Shopping Site Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:54:00 +0000

With so many online websites, it is nice to hear good reviews on experiences. My friend just recommended this site to find everything for everyone on your list, from alfred dunner jackets for grandma, or alpine design shoes for mom, or amanda clothing for sister, you will find it all at Become. This site has a search engine that will find any gift you need and bring you right to the website that offers that product. It will also show you a picture and comparison prices.

A time saver: Instead of searching online and finding outdated items that aren't for sale anymore or out of stock, Become finds products that are actually for sale. If you enter your zip code, they will give you the tax and shipping costs as well.

Just another tip to make your shopping season a little easier. Good luck and happy shopping!

Ski Season Basics

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 04:28:00 +0000

It's that time of year again! You better start looking for scarves, hats, gloves, and womens jackets. Each year when I hit the slopes in Northern Arizona, I regret not looking earlier.

The Basics:
Helmet: It's important for all women (not just kids) to start wearing helmets. Just remember to toss a cute beanie in your inside pocket to throw on while you relax in the lodge with some warm hot cocoa.

Hats: Try to buy a material that isn't too itchy. I have seen many hats that have fleece lining and they look so comfy!

Scarves: Scarves can even be found everywhere - even drugstores. Try to find a scarf that can double as an accessory for sports games, picking up the kids at school, and holiday light drives. I personally like plaid and stripes. Call me classic!

Gloves: They now have gloves with the finger that is friendly for electronic devices. At first I thought these were silly until I tried to use mine with a glove.

Jackets: Puffers filled with down might look funny or make you look like a marshmallow, but they will sure keep you warm! Also, look for lots of pockets. As a mom, these come in handy too often.

Bibs versus Pants: It's all a matter of preference or your skiing level. Personally, I like the pants because bathroom trips are easier. Again, find some with pockets.

Sunscreen: Don't forget to lather your face, neck, and ears. Plus, don't forget a lip balm with a high SPF and keep reapplying. You don't want to pay for these items at the ski shop either so buy ahead!

Good luck on the ski slopes and remember safety before style!

Summer is Over, Time to Repair

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:00:00 +0000

Now that summer is over, it's time to repair or hibernate. Time to repair your body by getting lots of sleep. Time to watch movies in front of the fire and sip green tea. Time to renew old friendships by sending sentiments of joy. Time to take in all you did this year and resolve to make new changes for 2012.

One of these changes might be to take better care of your skin and also to protect it with sunscreen. And on the off chance that you did forget to use sunscreen as much as you hoped, or yours failed you, there are second chances.

There is an incredible product, that can be found at Nordstrom's. Admit it, you will be there anyway in the next 30 days of so!

Stop by the cosmetic counter and ask about this product as a sun spot remover. Luminaze can break down melanin and show improvements of skin tone eveness in as little as 7 days. It is also Hydroquinone-free. It is safe for all skin types, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic.

A great product that might just be on wish list this holiday season!

FREEZE IT Hairspray review

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 18:59:00 +0000

I am so happy! I found another hairspray to use and it works. I was getting frustrated with my standard hairspray because my scalp starting itching every time I used it. My mom suggested switching brands and seeing if it helped. Luckily, I had the opportunity to test FREEZE IT hairspray.

The first night I used FREEZE IT was on Halloween. I decided at the last minute to be a gypsy and I wanted my curls to be a little wild and stand out more. I started using a little and was amazed to see how far a little went. I sprayed a little more just to make sure it would hold and my hair stayed in place all night. It brushes out easily too and doesn't make your hair sticky.

Now I have been using it on a daily basis and it makes my hair stay full. Another great thing about it is the patented optical brighteners that actually make my hair look a little more glossy. Oh and the itch I had? It's gone since I have switched to this hairspray.

Luckily, it won't be hard to find this hairspray because it is available at Walmart, Walgreens, Rite Aid, & CVS.

Another sidenote: The bottle I tested was gold and pink because FREEZE IT partnered with Susan G. Komen for the Cure to raise funds for the fight against breast cancer. Actually, they were the only mass-market hair care brand to partner with the charity. Bravo FREEZE IT! That is the kind of company I want to support.

http://www.freezeithair.com/

*I received a sample for review.

Boot Envy

noreply@blogger.com (Jean) — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 22:29:00 +0000

I promised myself at the end of last winter that I would buy a really cute pair of boots in Fall 2011 and wear them all winter. Guess what? It hasn't happened. I walk into DSW completely overwhelmed and just walk out. Then I head over to Famous Footwear with my coupons in hand. Nothing. What is wrong with me? I look online and everything looks great but it is so hard to buy boots online and expect them to fit. I just hate return items through the mail.

Kate is like the ultimate example of how to wear boots.

Just a little boot vent. All the moms at our school have cute boots and I am feeling a bit left out. Let me know if you know of any great deals.