TheLipGlosser

Really???? July????

2013-01-21T16:40:00.001-08:00

I didn't realize my last post was in July!!! That was not my intention, I think i just got caught up with life, and the holidays, I kept thinking.....I'll do one next week, and then the next week.....

I have tons of new products to talk about, and with the weather being in the negative chill factor, I think now is the time to get back into blogging :-). Stay tuned.......I should have a new post up by the weekend..

Plump it Up!!

2012-07-18T14:46:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, I wasn't blessed with some fat Angelina Jolie lips so anytime I see a lip plumper, I have to check it out. I think at first I was expecting to slap some gloss on, and have instant success and see a huge difference. That's not what happens with lip plumpers. What they do though is plump out the lines in your lips, giving the appearance of bigger lips. Some of them tingle, some actually sting, and some just feel minty. Also, some have "enhancers" in them, like extra shimmer, which can give the "illusion" of plumper lips. Regardless, I do feel like my lips look a bit bigger in some of them, so that's good enough for me. And also, most lip plumpers come in lighter colors.....light = bigger, where as dark colors make your lips appear smaller then what they are. All lip plumpers should be applied on dry bare lips, or you won't get the full effect. If you want the effect, but want to wear a lipstick and not the gloss, put the plumper on while you apply your other makeup, then wipe it off and apply the lipstick. Here is a short run-down of the ones I have tried:

Buxom Lip Creme: This one is my favorite. It has a slight tingle, nothing at all uncomfortable. Comes in a variety of colors and runs about $18. It has a nice feel to it, moisturizing and just feels good on. You can purchase this online, at Sephora or Ulta.

Lip Fusion: I think this one works also, and it's moisturizing for my lips. This one is a little more tingly then the Buxom and uses marine collagen microspheres to plump the lips. Comes in a variety of shades, and also comes in an XL version (which means extra strength, not extra large). This one is quite expensive, $38. Purchase online, or at Ulta.

The Balm, Plump Pout Pucker: I found this one in a kit of 3 at Marshalls. I think it was around $20 bucks, which is a great deal. I like this one also, not tingly at all on me. You can find them at Marshalls, TJ Maxx or The Balm website.

Hard Candy: This runs about $8 which is a great price. I have two of these, and I really enjoy them. I like the colors I have, this light pink one really helps with the illusion factor. No tingle, and can be purchased at Walmart or where ever Hard Candy is sold.

Duwop Lip Venum: This stuff is pretty darn tingly, and I don't really like the consistency too much, it's a bit thick, and it has a brush instead of a doe foot applicator. I don't like lip products that use brushes. I don't think they apply evenly. I honestly don't think this one does much for me. Pretty expensive also, at $16 considering how tiny the bottle is!

Studio M: This one I got at Meijer. I believe it's one of their brands, doesn't do anything and has an off putting smell. I think it was about $7.

I have one more from NYX (not pictured), called plump it up lip plumber. This one is the most tingly, some people may even say it stings. It is pretty potent, but I really like it, it does the job and lasts a long time on the lips. I think it may be a bit drying though, so be careful. This one runs about $

Jack Black Lip Balm

2012-07-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

So I'm just going to throw it right out there........this stuff is awesome! I had wanted to pick it up for a while now, but at $7.50 for .25 oz it was a little hard to part with that much money for such a tiny tube. But I'm so glad I did. I am what you might call a lip balm connoisseur. Or to be less fancy, an obsessed fanatic. I'm pretty sure I've tried every balm out there, except the high-high end stuff like La Mer. (But I'm working up to that, trust me). This JB balm feels really good, it's nice and thick, but not sticky or waxy. It's got an SPF of 25 which is great for keeping lips protected. It's full of good stuff like shea butter and avocado oil and it make my lips feel really soft. I usually brush my teeth at night (well duh), rub my toothbrush across my lips and put this stuff on, and like magic, all soft in the morning. It comes in a few different flavors, mine is natural mint & shea butter. I got mine at Ulta (it's a men's line, so check out the men's products to find it), but I've seen it at Sephora too, and anywhere else Jack Black products are sold.

L'Oreal Infallible Eye Shadows

2012-07-12T13:57:00.000-07:00

I bought one Bronzed Taupe when they first came out and really liked it. Great staying power, and I loved the color. I'm not sure why I waited so long to buy more....but when I saw this new collection of colors (I'm assuming for the fall), I grabbed two at my local Rite Aid with a buy one get half off one deal. The two I picked up are Smoldering Plum and Bottomless Java. These shadows are a cross between a pressed and a loose version. I'm not sure what they are even advertised as, because they come with these little "stoppers" which you have to keep on them to keep them "packed". I'm not thrilled with the Smoldering Plum, I expected it to be a tiny bit little lighter, it's very dark and kind of hard to tell it's purple once it's on, so you have to use that one sparingly. I usually just add a little to the crease and use it to line my bottom lashes. The Bronzed Taupe is beautiful, and goes well with my eyes, which are blue-grey. The Bottomless Java is also a nice color, a brown with flecks of gold. They are all pretty, but frankly look better in the container. Once you blend them on the eyes, they look like a lot of other products I already have. I always use a lid primer, so I don't know if they crease or not, but they do stay all day and look fairly fresh when I remove my make up (a full day is 630-1030). I would like to try one of the lighter shades to see how they are. They run about $8 and you can purchase at any drug store or dept store. (Taking pics of these was not fun.....couldn't get the true color very well, I tried with and without flash. I posted the ones as close as I could get).

Smoldering Plum, 556, w/flash

Bottomless Java, 800, w/flash

Bronzed Taupe, 890, w/o flash

I Splurged :-)

2012-07-10T14:04:00.000-07:00

I received a $25 gift card to Sephora as a gift from a friend a while ago, and have been hanging on to it, trying to decide what to get. I've been wanting to try the YSL Volupte Lipsticks for a long time, but just could not justify spending $35 for a lipstick. My daughter and boyfriend and I went to one of our local malls and talked me into getting this one. And when I say "talk me into", I mean, I asked....."should I get this?" and as they were turning their heads to listen to me, I ran up to the register and paid for it. What? I take other people's advice, what's wrong with that"? ;-). Anywho, I picked the Volupte Sheer Candy, and I cannot remember what color it is called. It's not written on the bottom, as far as I can tell, but I'll include a pic if you are interested. This luxurious lipstick is more of a balm, it feels soooo good on, it's creamy and buttery and moisturizing. It's a sheer pink (duh), and smells delicious! Like grapefruit, or melon, I can't tell which. It doesn't have all day lasting power, especially ~~when you drink diet coke and spicy peanuts for breakfast at work~~, when you drink water all day. All I know is I love it. It was around $33 with tax, so yeah, it's expensive....but to quote my girl L'Oreal, "I'm worth it". And you are too! Treat yourself every once in a while!

Heavy swatch

How I Prevent a Meltdown....

2012-07-08T15:18:00.000-07:00

As is the rest of the country, the heat around here has been BRUTAL. We have been in the 100s, which is breaking records from what I hear. It's so hot, last week I left for work at 7:00 am, got in my car and it said 88. Are you freaking kidding me??? I HATE hot weather. I'm not a "lay out in the sun, get my tan on, go to the beach kind of girl". Never have been and never will be. I don't even care about self tanners. I'm pale, that's what color I was born with, and frankly I'm happy with. Mainly because it keeps the wrinkles, blotchy peely skin, and skin cancer away. Over the years, I've been trying different concoctions of products to help with my oily skin. Which in this heat would be OILY skin. I've found a combination that works really well for me. Maybe it will work for you, or at least show you some products that you can combine with some of your favorites. First up is my summer moisturizer:

Now why a moisturizer when the weather is so hot? Its not really a moisturizer, it's a Shine Control Lotion, by Boots, which you can purchase at Target, or anywhere Boots is sold. It's specially formulated to deliver oil free hydration with instant matte results. (got that directly from the bottle lol). All I know is it works. I use half a pump, rub it in and on to the next...

Foundation.

sorry about the blur....i'm definitely no photographer

It's the Revlon ColorStay in 110 Ivory. I accidentally bought the normal/dry skin one, so I'm sure it would be even better if you got one for oily skin. This is apparently a dupe for Estee Lauder Double Wear, which I may try, although why pay $35 when this stuff is around $10. It's got great coverage and doesn't feel like I'm wearing a mask. Although I almost always wear foundation (I did purchase a great BB creme that I'll review another time), so I may not be the one to ask.....It lasts all day, doesn't turn colors after 8 hours and doesn't run, and doesn't break me out. What more can you ask for in a foundation?

Setting Powder.

After I apply the rest of my make up, I use Rimmel's Stay Matte Pressed Powder in 004 Sandstorm. This stuff is AWESOME! I got it as a gift from my daughter in a little beauty bag she does for me now and then and I love it!. I use a powder brush from EcoTools to put it on and it makes my skin very matte which I like. It also helps to cover up my pesky large pores and it's very lightweight. This is a must have, and I believe it's around $5-$6.

Setting Spray.

When I first heard about these, I thought...."so after I put all my products on to keep myself from being oily, you want me to spray something wet on it?" I thought for sure it was going to make me look cakey, but that is far from the truth. I'm currently using Urban Decay's All Nighter. Let me tell you, this stuff works. And works well! When I'm done with everything, and ready to close down my make up station lol, I spritz it twice on my face and walk away. And it sets everything and keeps it looking great! I've also used the E.L.F. one and that one is nice too. I believe the E.L.F one is $3-$6, and this one is $15 for a tiny bottle (this one is as long as my index finger. They have a larger size also), so if budget is a factor, buy the E.L.F. one. If you can splurge, get the Urban Decay.

Blotting Papers.

Normally I would be going through a pack of these a week, I kid you not. With my new routine, I use maybe 2 at work and that's it. These Neutrogena Shine Control Blotting Sheets are my favorites. They work like they are supposed to, not a whole lot to say about them, but if you are oily, they are worth the money. They run about $5, although I got mine for less then a $1 at Big Lots. Score!!

And last, my M.A.C. Blotting Powder in Medium. LOVE this. Works well at getting rid of the shine and has virtually no color. This goes everywhere with me. Even when I downsize to a small clutch or over the shoulder bag for mall walking or festivals, this, along with the blotting papers go with me. Can't leave home without em :-)

So there is my little "oil control" routine. If you have any suggestions on anything you use to control oil, please leave it in the comments. Thanks for reading, and have a great week everyone!

Product Reviews coming up

2012-07-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

Well I've been a terrible blogger lately. Real life has just snuck up on me and taken over. I've bought lots of new products and have reviews coming up.......stay tuned.....

In the Nude.....

2012-04-16T18:21:00.000-07:00

I've been on a quest to find the perfect nude lipstick. My lips are on the smaller side, and lighter shades make them look bigger. Or at least not smaller lol. I've found a bunch of them, they just aren't perfect on me. I'm quite pale, with pink undertones, so I need a cooler toned nude to compliment my skin. I also have very pigmented lips, so consequently I can't just swatch a lipstick on my arm and be able to tell how it will look on my lips. Which is why I have so many nude lipsticks. I found several that I like, three that I love, and a few that are just icksh. (That's a cuter word for yucky). I've swatched them all so you can see what they look like on very white skin, maybe that will help if you are also on the hunt for the perfect nude:

Essence 52 In the Nude", L'Oreal 814 "Forever Frappe", MAC "Blankety", MAC "Viva Glam II", MAC "Modesty", L'Oreal 800 "Fairest Nude"

MAC "Viva Glam II", MAC "Modesty", L'Oreal 800 "Fairest Nude", Essence 50 "Creamy Nude", Josie Maran "Birthday Suit", Revlon 065 "Rosey Nude", Nars "Belle de Jour"

Sorry about the repeats, it was hard to get them all in one picture. My favorites for consistency are both Essence lipsticks, they feel really moisturizing on the lips, and hold the color for about 2 hours. Also MAC Blankety feels really good and has good staying power. L'Oreal Forever Frappe stays put the longest, followed by Nars Belle de Jour and L'Oreal Fairest Nude. The one I wear the most is Essence "In the Nude", which is funny because it's the least expensive at about $2. I believe the most expensive is Nars, which runs about $24 and is the one I like the least. While it's nice to have a higher end lipstick as a treat, don't count out the lesser expensive ones, most companies have really stepped up their game. All in all, as we all know.....there is no "Perfect" lipstick....because if there was, we would have to stop buying them.......and we all know "that ain't gonna happen".

Essence

2012-02-12T18:03:00.000-08:00

While shopping around Ulta the other day, I came across an inexpensive brand of cosmetics called Essence. I don't think anything there was more than $5. Since drugstore makeup has come a long way, I thought for the price, why not try them. I purchased three eyeshadows and three nail polishes. The eyeshadows are pretty big, .08 oz. As you can see in the picture, the eyeshadows are quite pigmented. I have worn the dark brown shade called "Get Ready" with my Naked Palette and it held up as well as the Urban Decay did. Which was impressive as the price for the shadows is only $2.99! They have a decent variety of colors, and come in different finishes. They go on well, though I recommend using an applicator or your finger, not a brush...they just seem to go on better that way. Some of the colors are a bit bright, and I think the line is geared toward teens but if your looking for some fun, inexpensive makeup to play with, I'd try it! The nail polish bottles are small, .16 fl oz, but honestly, when was the last time you used an entire bottle of nail polish? I bought all pastels and the colors are really pretty, and wear well, and the best part is they are .99 each. In the below pictures, the nails match up with the nail polish (except the pink one) .

Metropolitan (sparkling effect), Get Ready (shimmer effect) and Party all night (metallic effect)
Polishes are Dress for a Moment (purple), Modern Romance (peach) and You Belong to Me (green)

Forever 21 Goodies

2012-02-06T16:05:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I went shopping on Saturday to celebrate her birthday. We hit up Kroger (great makeup selection!), then O'Charleys for lunch, then decided to head down to one of our local malls. We didn't go in many stores, just Macys and Forever 21 (and of course got some cookies from The Cookie Company). We checked out one of the new MAC collections, Daphne Guinness, and I wanted to get the cremesheen glass, Japanese Spring....it was so pretty, a milky pink color. Unfortunately it was really crowded, and there was a DJ there playing ridiculously loud club music. I like music, but we had to shout over each other to be heard. We waited for about 10 mins but the heat of the lights combined with the music was just too much, so we left. After I checked myself out in regular light, I decided that I didn't really want the lipglass after all. So off we went to Forever 21. It was equally hot in there, and if you stare at all the clothes for too long, you could get dizzy lol. Mostly we checked out the jewelry and makeup and found some really cute things, and one GREAT makeup purchase. My daughter got a few pairs of earrings, some pretty hair clips and some nail polish. I got a pair of earrings, some nail polish, a lipgloss, and a makeup palette. This is where we scored. It's called the Natural Palette and it very closely resembles the Naked Palette. The colors are extremely similar except it has less sparkly colors, and more mattes and shimmers. I swatched it after I paid for mine, so my daughter could see if she wanted it. Great color payoff. I wore it today to work and it lasted all day (with UD primer potion). If I didn't already have the Naked Palette, I wouldn't have bought it after getting this. And best of all it was $6.80! Yes, that's right, $6.80!! What a steal it was! Made the whole trip worth it. I had heard their makeup was decent, but didn't realize how much so until I got this. They also had a Smokey Palette, with darker colors and more black and greys. There were only about 6 of each and it was a relatively new display, but it's definitely worth the trip if you can snag one. I checked the website and it's not listed anywhere. Not sure what that means, but if you can find it, grab it!

Nail polish is in Lavender

I didn't take a picture of the swatches, but they really are nice, especially for the price!

L'Oreal "Balm"

2012-02-02T16:16:00.000-08:00

With the huge demand for the Revlon Lip Butters, I figured it wouldn't be long before other cosmetic lines joined the lip butter/gloss/lipstick/balm bandwagon. And I have to say L'Oreal is off to a great start with their version called "Balm". The color selection is much smaller, I believe their are 7 or 8 compared to the 20 Revlon Lip Butters colors. The packaging on the Balm is very sleek and "elegant" if you can use that word to describe a lip product. They are square and sleek, with a gold bottom and inside tube. The cover is a transparent version of the actual product, and you can see it on the top through the cover. I've heard some people complain that it should be totally clear so you can see the product, but I don't agree, I think they look really "upscale" this way, and you can see the product through it enough to get the gist of what the color is. I purchased Tender Mauve first, then went back and got Nourishing Nude and Pink Satin. I plan on getting at least two more, Plush Plum and Caramel Comfort. These are advertised as a tinted SPF 15 balm, and claims to keep your lips conditioned for up to 2.5 hrs after removing it. I haven't timed it myself, but they do make my lips feel good, especially considering we are in the middle of winter. They do not have a taste or scent to them, and you can put them on without a mirror, which is a plus for the busy gal that needs a swipe of color as she's heading out the door. The color and conditioning feeling stays on for a while (as long as you aren't eating, drinking, etc). They cost approx $8, though I've seen them for less then $7 at my local department stores (Meijer, Target, Walmart). I recommend these, and I know they will especially come in handy in the summer when I'm looking for more of a minimalist feel to my make up.

Tender Mauve, 518

Nourishing Nude, 818

Pink Satin, 118

Tender Mauve, Nourishing Nude, Satin Pink (swatched heavily)

Leave a msg and tell me what your favorite lip products are!

Benefit Blush

2011-12-18T18:14:00.000-08:00

I was trying to figure out what my "go to" blush is. And I don't really have one. I like to use lots of different ones, but I do seem to use these Benefit blushes more than others. The colors are so pretty, long lasting, compliment my skin, and don't change color once they are on for a while. They also smell really good! Kind of fruity....

Coralista, Thrrrob, Dallas, Bella Bamba

My favorite right now is Dallas. It's pretty as a bronzer, but it actually works well on my skin as a blush too. I put it over Mac's Brit Wit. It is a nice winter combination on my pale skin. Just use a light hand! They can be a bit chalky if you apply too much (IMO). I'm not a huge fan of the box packaging....although now with their newer ones they have a mirror and the lid is attached (Bella Bamba). You get a decent amount for the money, 120 g for $28. I don't think I will hit pan (or box lol) on any of them for a long time. They have several shades, with Hervana being the newest one. You can see that one here. For those of you who may feel they are a little too pricey, there are some great dupes by Hard Candy called "Fox in a Box" for a more affordable $6. I don't have any of these myself, they are available at Walmart and are always sold out when I go, but I plan on trying them, and if you check out YouTube, you can see some comparisons.

MAC Naked Honey Skin Salve

2011-12-01T18:00:00.000-08:00

sorry, a little blurry...

It may not be fair to review this particular product, since you can't purchase it at a MAC counter or on the website. But....you can buy it at CCOs (cosmetic company outlets) that most outlet malls have. I got mine at the Cincinnati Premium Outlet Mall. It was $15 and worth every penny. I went to the mall a couple of months ago, and bought a few things at the CCO, and didn't notice the Naked Honey Skin Salve until I was walking out. I tested it on my cuticles (which are a dried up raggedy mess) and went home. On my way, I kept thinking how well it moisturized them, better then any cuticle cream or oil I've tried. So....next time we hit the flea markets, which just happen to be across the street from the mall, I went and got one. And I have to say it's one of the best beauty purchases I've made! You got a huge amount, 1.41 oz. I use it every night on my cuticles (and sometimes during the day when I think of it) and slather some on my lips. Often during the day, I'll grab this instead of a lipstick or gloss, especially now that the weather has turned ~~frigid~~ cooler. It is a honey color, the consistency is a bit like Vaseline, but not in a slimy way. It has a pleasant taste, slightly sweet, although I don't recommend doing a lot of lip licking. Another nice point for me is, it's in a large enough container with a screw on lid. Those little tiny pots of cream and lip balms that are flat, (like Nivia, and Burt's Bees) are so hard to open......ok, I just realized I've gone on an awful lot over some lip salve-balm-moisturizer.....but those who know me won't think it's odd at all :-). Anyway, if you have the chance to grab this stuff........do it!

Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter

2011-10-31T19:08:00.000-07:00

Two word sum these new lip butters up........moisturizingly creamy. I don't think moisturizingly is a word, but it fits. These are sooooo nice. They are like a lip balm, but more creamy, and with color. I only own two of them (as of now, I plan to purchase many more), I have gumdrop and pink truffle. These are not in all drug stores yet, in fact I went to Walgreens, CVS and K-Mart before I found them at Rite Aid. They run about $7.50 and I believe come in 20 different shades. They are more sheer and softer then a lipstick, but still have pigment. Not like a lip gloss at all. Just creamy. They are exactly what you would imagine a lip butter would be. They feel great on the lips, and you can get away with just using these (and can put them on without a mirror which is a plus for those of us on the go). They wear relatively well, but they feel so good, I'm constantly reapplying them anyway. The packaging is just like the Colorburst lipsticks, but the lid is transparent. The tubes are slanted (like the Clinique Black Honey for example). I love these and have heard nothing but good things from other people that own them. They are perfect for a spring/summer color, but great for moisturizing in fall/winter. I highly recommend!

Gumdrop, Pink Truffle

Tarte LipSurgence

2011-10-27T16:35:00.000-07:00

These were a bit of an impulse buy. Sephora and Ulta had a set of them (5) for $29.99, but I heard they were sold out. I was in Ulta a couple of weeks ago, and they had them so I snagged one. They are a limited edition set (the ones I bought), however you can order them in other colors for $24.00 a piece. They are actually referred to as "lip treatments", and come in lusters and tints. The colors in the box set are 3 lusters in Dazzled (pearly coral pink luster), Flashy (bright iridescent fuchsia luster), Glitzy (antique pink luster) and 2 tints in Perky (soft carnation pink tint) and Swank (light cherry tint). They glide on really smoothly and are fairly shiney, but not a ton of pigment (IMO). They are not sticky, so that's a plus for those of you who don't like that feeling. They have a hint of peppermint and contain no parabens, synthetic fragrances or phthalates. Basically they feel like a lip balm with some color and shine. A couple of them are a tad on the glittery side. They don't need sharpening, they twist up from the bottom. I'm really glad I purchased this set, but I don't think I would buy them separately. I gave 2 of them to my daughter so I only have 3 to show.

Swank, Perky, Dazzled

Dazzled (bottom), Perky (middle) Swank (top)

Review: L'Oreal Le Gloss

2011-10-12T14:43:00.000-07:00

I am in love with these lip glosses! They are very pigmented, and taste and smell like cupcakes, or cake batter......or butter cream frosting........I haven't quite put my finger on it, but it's yummy! The first one I purchased was Really Rose (I can't tell the number on it, it got "erased" while in my makeup bag). It's a very pretty "earthy rose" color, that's the best way I can describe it. It is very pigmented and opaque, a very nice fall color. The second one I got was Nude Touch (152). This one is also pigmented, not quite as opaque, and a little shimmery, very versatile. Next was Baby Blossom (151). This is my least favorite, as it's not as opaque, it's a little like a streaky nail polish. It's a milky pink.....once you work with it and get it on right, it's pretty also, very light. And lastly, Watermelon Crush (154). This one is less pigmented, a little more "see through" but still plenty of color....maybe a light fuchsia. They are not sticky at all (and I love mine sticky lol) but stay on 2-3 hrs without reapplying (or eating, drinking, etc). Like I said the smell and taste is yummy. The price averages about $7.99, and you can pick it up at most drug stores or department stores. I recommend!

Really Rose, Nude Touch, Baby Blossom, Watermelon Crush

Somewhere in Time.......

2011-10-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

We just recently returned from our yearly vacation to the Upper Peninsula (U.P.) of Michigan (Mackinaw City, St Ignace, and Mackinac Island to be exact). This is either our 7th or 8th trip there. The first time I went is when my boyfriend (who now lives here) came up from Texas to visit me. It was February and he took me there to visit some of his old friends, and show me where he lived. Although it was in mid February, and absolutely FREEZING (and I've lived in Alaska....I've never been so cold as when we went to Michigan), and the lakes were frozen solid, it was the most beautiful place I've ever been to. I just fell completely in love with it. We went again in the fall, and all I can say is........go there in the fall! It's so beautiful. All the trees are so colorful, the lakes are sparkling and because it's past tourist season, it's not crowded at all. We were gone 7 days and I've never been more relaxed in my life. We always stay at The Driftwood (which is in St Ignace) and then just travel across the Mackinac Bridge when we want to go to the lower peninsula. This time, we stayed at The Lamplighter Inn in Mackinaw City for 3 days, did all our exploring below the bridge, then went north and stayed at the Bay View Hotel and did all the U.P. stuff. More economical that way since one way across the bridge is $3.50. Both motels were great, for different reasons. The Lamplighter Motel was so quaint, a lovely room, designed to resemble the movie "Somewhere in Time" with Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeves. The bed was a four poster and huge! Not much room to walk around in the room, but the decor made it all worth it. They even have nightly bonfires for the guests, what a great idea! Unfortunately they didn't have them while we were there, it may be more of a tourist seasonal thing. The Bay View Motel we stayed in when we went up to the U.P. was quite large, and on the water! We opened our two HUGE windows, and could see and hear the water lapping up on the shore. I could actually sit on our bed and watch the waves, it was gorgeous. There was a nice sized table with two chairs in the room, and lots more room to walk around. The decor was more like a standard motel room, but beautiful none the less, largely because of the view. The only downside to this room was cell phone reception. It was sketchy and there was no phone in the room. Which was ok, because, after all........we were trying to get away from all that. I'll post some pictures below of some of the highlights. If you get a chance to go.....I HIGHLY recommend both motels, and Michigan in general. Quiet, calm, lots to do and see, and fantastic food. What more could you ask for?

Here are a few pictures of some places we visited.

"Screams" Ice Cream Shop, in Hell, Michigan. A stop on the way. We ate the "Gravedigger", a three scoop concoction that was gooey and delicious. We received a "death certificate" for finishing it lol

Pretty flower bed behind the shop, with picnic tables and mini golf

A beautiful inn on Mackinac Island. You get there by boat only, no motorized vehicles are allowed on the Island, including cars. We had a lovely horse (thank you Rex and Dobbin!) and carriage tour around the Island.

Some scenery while we toured the Island (notice the bike rack? Lots of bikes on the Island, pretty much the only way to get around.....snowmobiles in the winter!)

Never seen a see through butterfly before! This was at one of the Butterfly Houses on the Island

The Legs Inn in Cross Village, Michigan. Awesome Polish food and an even better view!

Yummy Polish food and I order a burger lol. It was delicious! A pretzel bun!

The "backyard" of the Legs Inn. So pretty! When you turn around, you face the lake. :-)

Taquamenon Falls, the water is tea colored because it gets its color from the Cedar Swamps

Those are just a few of the places we went to. We also visited the Garlyn Zoo, the Deer Ranch, and Oswald's Bear Ranch. Wonderful time :-)

Essie Polish

2011-09-21T14:51:00.000-07:00

I don't have a huge collection of Essie polishes. Some of them are a little hard to apply without looking streaky on me. I still buy them here and there.....and some of them I love, (one is my last purchase, I'll add a pic of how it looks on). I find the darker the color, the better it looks, (meaning less streaky), at least on me. I seem to stick to the same color families.....either pink or neutral. I usually apply a ridge filler, and then a primer from Deborah Lippmann, the color, then a topcoat from Seche Vite. I don't keep up with the collections, I just grab them when I see a color I like, or when they are on sale lol. You can get them at Target, some CVS's, and Ulta ($7.99)

Island Hopping, St Lucia Lilac, Luscious Lips

Don't have the name of the first one, Sugar Daddy, Lady Like

Mink Muffs, Best Boyfriend, Demure Vixen

Lady Like

My Mom

2011-09-10T12:11:00.000-07:00

Donna

Today is my mom's birthday........well, it would have been her birthday, but she passed away a few years ago. I remember that day clearly as if it were yesterday. My family lives in Florida, I'm here in Ohio. It was February 14, and we had a terrible snow storm. She had been in the hospital for a few days and wasn't expected to get out. My brother and sister were there with her (which I am so grateful for), but I wasn't. I wanted to be, but the snow had me captive in my apartment complex, and the airport was practically shut down. The whole day felt surreal to me.......I knew it was happening, but because I wasn't there, it was like I was watching from the outside, where it was safe. I kept in touch with my brother and sister on cellphones, and they kept me up to date on how she was doing. I've been away from home since I was 18, yet I always felt like the big sister, ready to dispense advice where ever needed, trying to search for a way to solve problems or make things better. But this time, I couldn't do anything. Nothing. And it is the worst feeling in the world. I couldn't even try and make them feel better, because I was all consumed with my own grief. And guilt. The guilt. I live with it every day. Some days are worse then others. When I see an older lady, one that may resemble my mom in the way they dressed, or the lines on their face........especially if it's in a Kmart, or a Dollar Store.....I can actually feel my heart splinter a little bit. Not so much guilt because I wasn't there when she died, but at times, I wasn't there when she was alive. She lived here in Ohio with me for a couple of years. At first, she lived with me, then eventually got her own apartment. In the beginning, we did lots together, shopping, cooking, watching TV, (actually, me watching TV, her falling asleep with her head rested on her hand sitting up. I don't know how she did it lol). When she moved into her own place, I went over a few times a week. But now I know it wasn't enough. I know now that she must have been lonely. And my excuse for not going over was always the same. I'm tired. I do have some legitimate reasons for being tired (a couple of pain in the ass diseases) but honestly.......I took it for granted that she would always be there. I could always go over "tomorrow". I could give her a call "later". And now, there is no tomorrow....and no later. And I can never have a chance to tell her how sorry I am for not being there for her more. Sure, I took her to the grocery, and to the Dr, and we did spend time together, but people......I can tell you....it's not enough. If you have the chance to spend time with your mom, or even if you don't. Find it and do it. Don't put it off. Don't wait till another day. Call her everyday and tell her you love her. Send her a note in the mail. Drop off flowers for no reason. Tell her thank you for everything she has done for you. Hold her face in your hand, and drink it in..........because one day she won't answer the phone, or the door, and you have to search your memory for the gentle lines in her face, and the little birthmark like yours on her arm. Don't have any regrets......don't have any regrets..........I miss you mom. Everyday.

Get Your Freak On - 15 Weird Facts About Me

2011-08-24T15:18:00.000-07:00

So this is a tag that's been going around Youtube for a while now. And since I've been feeling like crap for the past few weeks, and I haven't done a blog post, I figured this would be easy and fun and give me some time to think of something better haha.

What's a nickname only your family calls you?
- hmmm, I don't have any that I know of......if they call me something, it's behind my back lol

What's a weird habit of yours?
- I only like to drink diet coke/pepsi out of a cup (preferably fountain) with lots of ice and a straw. I'm really picky about it.

Do you have any weird phobias?
- I'm afraid of bees........and green beans. I don't want to look at them, smell them, or hear about them

What's a song you secretly LOVE to blast & belt out when you're alone?
- California Love by Tupac

What's one of your biggest pet peeves?
- I HATE when people don't use their turn signal. Especially if they put it on AS they are turning instead of BEFORE they slow down to turn. I also hate it when I go into a fast food restaurant and before I even get up to the counter they ask me what I want......I need to read the menu first geez!

What's one of your nervous habits?
- I pick at my cuticles. I'm not sure if this is because I'm nervous or not, but I do it......

What side of the bed do you sleep on?
- Whatever side is closest to the bathroom

What was your first stuffed animal & it's name?
- I don't remember

What's the drink you ALWAYS order at Starbucks?
- Venti Chocolately Chocolate Chip Frapp

What's the beauty rule you preach.. but never ACTUALLY practice?
- hmmm, maybe wash your brushes often.....I don't really preach any that I don't practice

Which way do you face in the shower?
- Away from the water

Do you have any weird body skills?
- I can cross one eye. And one of my thumbs is stuck in a hitchhiker pose. (That one isn't by choice lol)

What's your favorite comfort food that's 'bad' but you love to eat it anyways?
- Anything chocolate

What's a phrase or exclamation you always say?
- I say "whatever dude" alot, mmmmkay, and alrighty

Time to sleep- what are you ACTUALLY wearing?
- Pajama pants and a tshirt

So yeah, this was pretty boring to write, and probably even more boring to read.......maybe I should come up with my own questions......now that could be fun ;-)

Flower Power

2011-08-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

Ugh, it's so hot!! We've had 90+ degree weather for weeks now.....even the flowers are wilting (not to mention weeks of bad hair). Here is a pretty lip gloss flower to look at..........hey, at least it will never die :-) Anyone else looking forward to the weekend already???

My True Love

2011-07-27T14:22:00.000-07:00

I found it..........the one.... After years of searching for my true love, I found it. I tried so many, giving them the benefit of the doubt because I thought they were the one for me, the one I was looking for. I discarded them, one by one, thinking my attempts were futile and just wanting to throw in the towel. But I found it!!!

Yes...........it's a lipstick (come on, you're surprised??). Number 814, Forever Frappe by L'Oreal (Infallible). I believe it was around $8, and I'm sure you can find it anywhere lipsticks are sold (I believe I got it at Walgreens). It's the perfect color for me.....almost the color of my lips, but a shade better. I'm in love!!! It's creamy and long lasting and it has my name all over it. *sigh*........love......it's a wonderful thing isn't it?

Add caption

Pretty huh?

Birchbox!

2011-07-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have never heard of Birchbox....It's a box of "luxury" sized samples that are sent each month, usually 4-5 samples, for $10. It's an auto delivery type thing, if you decide you don't want it anymore, just log on and cancel......pretty easy! They send a wide variety of product lines, like Stila, Benefit, Laura Mercier, and Bare Minerals to name a few. Each month you receive one full size item, which almost always retails for more then $10, along with 3-4 luxe samples, so it's a win win situation! It's a great way to try a product you might not want to spend money on, either because it's a little pricey or you've never tried the brand before. I've been a member for about 4 months, and I've received some great things, like a full size Laura Geller blush, a Stila eyeshadow, and a Zoya nail polish. You also rack up points that you can use to purchase full sizes of the sample products they send and they have helpful tips and tutorials on the website. I thought I'd share what I received for July so you can see what they have to offer....

Birchbox!

Card explaining the products

Packaged.....

Redken Shine Brilliance Shine Flash, Nuxe Dry Oil, Zoya polish in Pandora, and Purity cleanser by Philosophy and a fruit and nut bar (can't remember the name of it)

So that's what my box of goodies held for July........I love this because there is always something in there I end of liking, and who doesn't like to get a box of beauty products in the mail? It's like someone loves you and sends you a present each month........and I love presents! Get your Birchbox here........... Birchbox

Deborah Lippmann Nails Runway Collection

2011-07-14T16:35:00.000-07:00

I was watching HSN a couple of weeks ago and saw this collection.....sometimes I like to watch make up and nail stuff on home shopping channels because it relaxes me. I also watch when they sell pillows, because when they fluff them up over and over and rub on the pillows, it makes me really relaxed. Yes, we've established already that I'm weird :-P. Anyway..........when they were talking about this collection of nail polishes and nail products, it peaked my interest because they said the consistency on the nails was kind of "spongy" or like "jello". I had heard about this new consistency of nail polishes but didn't know where I could get them. I also thought the model's nails looked really nice so I got my phone out, (because yes, I was too lazy to walk the 10 feet to my computer) got on my handy dandy HSN app and ordered it. The easy pay option always sucks me in. It was $44.50 which is a little steep (although for 6 bottles and a nice case, not unreasonable). BUT when you see $22.50 for 2 easy pays........I mean come on, how can you pass that up???? I was home sick this past Monday and what a co-inkidink, it came Monday. My daughter came over that night and we gave ourselves a Deborah Lippmann manicure. We used all 6 products. Which is alot for me. I usually slap on a couple of coats of polish and a top coat and I'm done. After doing the cuticle removing, cuticle oiling, primer, polish and top coat, we both sat back and admired our handiwork. And we were both impressed. The color I used (Supermodel) is a very vibrant shade of red in the bottle, but sheer at the same time. Lara's Theme is definitely more orangey. It's hard to explain the consistency. It's full coverage, but sheer at the same time. With one coat it is kind of like that plastic wrap they came out with to wrap up your food....you know, the hot pink, and green ones? But if you were to wrap the food a few times, that's what it would look like. No idea what I'm talking about?? Well I suggest you just buy it because I'm pretty sure you would love it. Each product does exactly what it says it will do. My cuticles came off with hardly any elbow grease, and the polish applied like a dream. Usually sheerer polishes are streaky.........even with one coat there was not a streak in sight. I used two coats so the color wasn't quite as red as in the bottle, but still very pretty. And really shiny, even without the top coat (which I used anyway, I mean, let's go all the way right?). I really enjoy the bag too, it's got 4 zippered plastic pockets (which when rolled up, you get the handy dandy carrying case). This is where I got mine... "HSN Website but unfortunately they are sold out. I tried to google and find it some place else, but no luck. On the website however they do have other kits, and lots of other colors (even more then the actual Deborah Lippmann website which is sold out of several shades) so I'm sure you could find another color you liked. They are a little more pricey at $18, but I'm telling you, if you like nail polish, it's worth it. I have Essie, OPI, China Glaze, Revlon, etc polishes in my collection and these put them to shame. At least IMO. If you don't want to spend the money yourself, you could always ask for them as a birthday or Christmas gift :-). Oh and one more thing. The pictures of my nails below are after 4 days of typing, showering, and washing dishes. And not a chip in sight. NICE!

Bag rolled up

Cuticle Remover, Cuticle Oil, 2 Second Nail Primer
Supermodel, Lara's Theme, and Hard Rock

Two coats (with flash)

I realize I need to work on the picture quality and background. My lighting is terrible....maybe I should take them outside?

What's in my make-up bag?

2011-07-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

I like to read blogs about what people keep in their purses or make up bags (yes, I said people, lots of guys carry purses too), or watch youtube videos where they show you.....I like to see if there is anyone else that keeps a book in their purse (in case I get stuck somewhere) or a bag of peanuts (in case I get stuck somewhere and get hungry), etc. Rather then show you the mess that is my purse, I'll show you what I keep in my make up bag. I just pulled it out, no cleaning it out first, so this is a true depiction of what is usually in there.

First my make up bag.........It's from a company called Thirtyone, they sell purses, make up bags, lunch bags, and other items. They are mostly made of cloth, and have designs on them, and as you can see, you can get them monogrammed. This is not usually my style (I hate that Vera Bradley junk) but I love the make up bags because they are padded. And as you all know, I gotta protect my lip glosses!

Next up, the contents:

Top row, Revlon Colorburst lipstick in "Rosy Nude", L'Oreal Endless lipstick in "In the Buff" (which I believe is discontinued), Mac lipstick in "Syrup", Mac lipstick in "Viva Glam V" and Essence Stay with Me Longlasting lipgloss in "I Like Cotton Candy" Second Row, Beauty Rush Soothing Lip Balm (no color name but it's a bright pink), Soft Corp Soft Kiss lip balm and DuWop Lip Venom. Bottom row: Clean "Simply Soap" roll on perfume, Mac Blot Powder, and Neutrogena Shine Control Blotting Sheets.

I'm actually surprised that is all that's in there.....although I did clean it out a few days ago when I switched purses, I probably had 10 more lip products in there, and I also had some chewed up gum in a wrapper...a receipt from Ulta.......and an M&M. Oh, and I recently found out you can apply a thin film of Milk of Magnesia on your face before you apply your foundation and that helps keep the oil away.....I'm gonna try it, maybe I can reduce the amount of blotting papers I use each day. Plus...... if I eat something that upsets my tummy, I got it covered ;-). Now..........what do you keep in your bag???