Through K"Rose"Carol's colored glasses

Back after all these years.

2020-06-19T10:27:00.001-04:00

I never really went away, I just got too busy to post blog entries.

Then at some point blogging stopped being so popular. So much is done by video now.

While I find it a little intimidating to be on camera, I do enjoy being able to "look someone in the eye" as I share my message.

While staying at home during the COVID 19/Corona virus health crisis, I started cleaning my office, where I found notes of blog entries I had been meaning to write-up and post.

As others were learning new skills I decided to dust off an old one. So here I am writing a brief message to let you know I'm back and will give you snippets of content I've created over the past 6 years.

They vary in topic and sometimes you may find you don't agree with them. I encourage you to express your opinion and feedback but I don't want to start a fight.

That being said I hope you enjoy a little insight into my mind viewing the world through my "rose colored glasses."

Stand Out

2014-08-23T23:39:00.001-04:00

What comes to mind when you think of Professional Image?” Is it a uniform, a stereotype, a brand, or something less tangible? My advice to you as entrepreneurs is that you need to consider your professional image as your personal “brand.” It can be far more than what you look like or are wearing. Yes, having nice skin, makeup, clothes, a good car or eye catching business cards help, but your reputation is on the line. (I hate to admit it but people do judge us by those things sometimes, as we often make a snap decision in the first few seconds.) It is said the first impressions we make occur within the 1st minute of meeting someone. It is advisable to review them before a business meeting or client appointment. Bear in mind these can apply to everyday situations as well.

Exterior

Let's talk about scrutinizing your grooming (hair, make-up, cleanliness, etc.) Does your hair/skin (and if applicable, make-up) project the image you want? If not, maybe it’s time to consult a stylist for an updated hair-do or sit down with a make-up artist to create a different look. As one of my sales directors likes to say if your hair isn't “slammin,” cut it, dye it or buy more of it, but do something with it! I can tell you from personal experience when your skin looks good you’ll radiate confidence. Now, Ireally don't want to know if you forgot to wash your face this week. All joking aside, good hygiene not only helps you to look your best but minimizes downtime due to illness. Were you even aware that your skin is one of the largest organs in the body and often times is your first line of defense against your environment? Please take care of it.

Now think about your ornamentation. Clothes, make-up, jewelry, watches, belts, handkerchiefs and shoes are all types of ornamentation.People definitely take these into account when making an initial judgment. I highly recommend getting some of your favorite outfits and accessories together and asking friends you trust what they think of when they see them. Purses and large earrings or jewelry can also indicate a lot to a new person they are meeting. Make sure that what you are wearing conveys what you want it to say to the people you are meeting for the first time.

Analyze your attire. Do your clothes project an appropriate personal image? For example, if you’re trying to cultivate an executive presence in a fairly formal industry and company, do you dress the part by wearing suits? If you want people to view you as creative, do your clothing (and jewelry) choices reflect your individual creativity? Personal shoppers and stylists are great resources to help you upgrade your wardrobe and overall ‘look.’

Those pesky 6 inches

The most important thing to do for giving a good impression is to set your intention. This is especially important before any kind of big event where you would be meeting a lot of people, like a conference, networking event or friend’s party. As you are getting ready or when you are driving over think about what kind of people you want to meet and what kind of interactions you want to have. This can be an incredibly grounding experience and works very well to focus on what kind of energy you want to have for your event.

It may seem a little dramatic, but I have a daily affirmation I say when I wake up. I won't go into it here but I firmly believe you draw to you what you put out in the world. Do you want a good day, a positive outlook on life, success and happiness? Then think about those things. Haven't you ever noticed your mindset when the weather turns bad or you get stuck in traffic? Doesn't it generally plummet? Don't worry about things out of your control, just control the things you can – your attitude is one of them.

People who go to cocktail events or mixers after having had a bad day typically continue to have a bad day. If you are in a depressed or anxious mood, others will pick up on this from your facial expressions, comments and body language. If you’re having a bad day, stay home! Otherwise, find a way to snap yourself out of your bad mood. For me, working out or watching funny YouTube videos before events often gets me in a more social, feel good mood. I even have an emergency cd/playlist of silly songs that I call my “plastic prozak” which once I've listened to for a few minutes generally lifts my spirits and takes my mind off whatever was distracting me.

Examine your attitude. I was taught your attitude determines your altitude (or level of success.) Do you smile when first meeting someone, even if you’re busy and have other things on your mind? Are you focusing on that person and giving them your full attention? If not, you might be harming your image. When I am with a client, it's not about me, it's about her. I imagine a sign over her head that says “make me feel important.” And I proceed to do just that.

Be interested and interesting. If you are truly interested in meeting people and are open to learning about who they are, they will get this in a first impression. We have all had the experience of meeting someone and knowing instantly that they were dragged here by a friend and are just waiting to get out the door and head home. When you are meeting people for the first time approach others with a genuine interest in who they are. This is often contagious and you will have better conversations and lasting connections when you are interested because they become interested.

I have found the key to this is to use my ears and mouth proportionally. Iknow I need to listen more than I speak. It allows me to learn something about the other person. I ask open ended questions. Sometimes depending on the situation, questions I want them to ask me back!

Review your verbal communication. Do you speak clearly, professionally and at an appropriate pace and sound level when first meeting someone? Ask a friend to role-play and look for ways you can modify your verbal communication to create an improved first impression.

Practice makes perfect. You should know what you want to get acrosswell enough that if your power point presentation fails, your printer won't work, or your cue cards end up all out of order that you can carry on with confidence.

Know your audience. Sometimes word choice is just as important as the message. If you're speaking to peers in the office as opposed to friends at the bar on a Friday night, I'm sure you're using a totally different vocabulary. If your presentation is printed for distribution or display, be sure to spell check it first. Check your word selection for potentially offensive or inaccurate terms. (Better safe than sorry.)

The whole package

What you should take away from this is: look sharp, feel sharp, and be sharp. With time and a little teamwork, you will radiate confidence, and far outshine your competition. The goal should be that your personal brand and image sets the standard for all others in your profession.

“What are you really saying?”

2014-06-11T15:14:00.002-04:00

Body language is a very powerful tool. We had body language before we had speech, and apparently, 80% of what you understand in a conversation is read through the body, not the words. Just think about how you can look at a magazine advertisement or watch a foreign movie and still know how that subject is feeling. The perfect example would be watching a mime perform on the street. When he's not trapped in a box or walking against the wind, don't we generally know what's happening? There are many different types of nonverbal communication that make up what we commonly refer to as “body language.” Together, the following nonverbal signals and cues communicate your interest and investment in others. What is their face showing? Is it masklike and unexpressive, or emotionally present and filled with interest? The human face can be extremely expressive, able to express countless emotions without saying a word. And unlike some forms of nonverbal communication, facial expressions are universal. The facial expressions for happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, fear, and disgust are the same across cultures. (Sometimes it can change the meaning of the words we are actually saying.) Since the visual sense is dominant for most people, eye contact is an especially important type of nonverbal communication. The way you look at someone can communicate many things, including interest, affection, hostility, or attraction. Eye contact is also important in maintaining the flow of conversation and for gauging the other person’s response. Is eye contact being made? If so, is it overly intense or just right? When you don't look someone in the eyes, it can signal deception or a lack of respect. Consider how your perceptions of people are affected by the way they sit, walk, stand up, or hold their head. The way you move and carry yourself communicates a wealth of information to the world. This type of nonverbal communication includes your posture, bearing, stance, and subtle movements. Gestures are woven into the fabric of our daily lives. We wave, point, beckon, and use our hands when we’re arguing or speaking animatedly—expressing ourselves with gestures often without thinking. However, the meaning of gestures can be very different across cultures and regions, so it’s important to be careful to avoid misinterpretation. We communicate a great deal through touch. Think about the messages given by the following: a weak handshake, a timid tap on the shoulder, a warm bear hug, a reassuring slap on the back, a patronizing pat on the head, or a controlling grip on your arm. Is there any physical contact? Is it appropriate to the situation? Does it make you feel uncomfortable? It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it. When we speak, other people “read” our voices in addition to listening to our words. Things they pay attention to include your timing and pace, how loud you speak, your tone and inflection, and sounds that convey understanding, such as “ahh” and “uh-huh.” Think about how someone's tone of voice, for example, can indicate sarcasm, anger, affection, or confidence. Does their voice project warmth, confidence, and interest, or is it strained and blocked? Don’t be caught doing some of these! Frowning or Scowling: Scowls and frowns, often unintentional and unconscious, communicate unhappiness and disagreement. Looking Down: In everyday interactions, it can make you look uncomfortable or self-conscious. Glancing At The Clock: Glancing at the clock or at your watch or even looking past a person who you're speaking with will communicate disinterest or arrogance. Slouching: Bad posture signals to others that you lack confidence and have poor self -esteem or low energy levels. Folding Arms: This stance creates a sense of being closed off and may signal to others that you are disinterested in them or don't buy into their message. Weak Handshake: A handshake that isn't firm will signal a lack of authority. One that is too firm could make you seem overly aggressive. Fidgeting And Touching Hair: Fidgeting and playing with hair or clothes can reveal an excess of energy, which signals discomfort or anxiety. Can I fix it? (Sure it's not terminal!) Here are some tips to help you keep your body language positive: Eye contact: Keep your head up and look the person who you are having a conversation with in the eyes both when they are talking to you and when you are talking to them. There is no need to stare them down and remember to blink and look away occasionally. Good eye contact lets others know that you are interested in the conversation. Posture: Be relaxed whether you are sitting or standing. Keep your back straight but not stiff and let your shoulders relax. It reinforces the idea you’re comfortable in your surroundings. Arms: Crossing your arms is the visual clue that you are turned-off by what is going on around you. Practice hanging your arms comfortably at your side or bringing your hands together in your lap to show others that you are open to what they are communicating. Hands: Talking with your hands is an easy way to incorporate gestures into your conversation but be careful not to make it a dance party. Emphasizing words with your hands can lead you to appear more credible and assured. Handshake: The handshake is one of the most important nonverbal communication cues because it can set the mood for the entire conversation. A firm handshake will give you instant credibility while a weak handshake will make you appear fragile. Take care not to crush the other person’s hand though. Giving someone a death grip will signal to them that you are a bully or overcompensating for something. Body language is a crucial part of first impressions. Often, simply being aware of your it can result in immediate improvements. Remember, what you communicate through your body language and nonverbal signals affects how others see you, how well they like and respect you, and whether or not they trust you. I encourage you to evaluate your own non-verbal communication and those of others a bit more. Start with something simple like shaking hands. I'd suggest that you practice with friends and family. Try shaking hands firmly and establishing good eye contact to ensure you aren’t doing anything that could damage a good first impression. Once you master these skills, you just might impress yourself!

my first demo video

2013-11-19T11:55:00.001-05:00

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnDCfhpb-ng&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Sweet dreams and night creams

2013-08-21T20:36:00.000-04:00

Retinol creams are meant to help improve the skin's appearance from acne to wrinkles. Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A. It helps make healthier skin by aiding in cellular reproduction. Such as causing the body to produce collagen which shrinks pore size and softens skin. It acts as an antioxidant -- which helps protect against carcinogens by getting rid of free radicals.

There are so many creams out on the market it's hard to choose. Factors to consider are % of retinol in the cream and whether or not you are already taking vitamin A suppliments (or are pregnant - it has been known to cause birth defects) because you don't want to overdose on vitamin A. Also be careful as it increases skin sensitivity so you shouldn't be using it without sun screen. Additional ingreedients like glycolic acid works well in conjunction with retinol, making it more effective. Hydroxy acids and vitamin C can also be beneficial.

Is it me or have nails gotten confusing?

2013-08-03T12:24:00.001-04:00

Call me "old school" if you like, but I believe painting one's nails has gotten a bit confusing. I just can't keep up with the trends.

I have a whole board on Pinterest that's dedicated to nail art -- most of which I'm not even capable of duplicating myself. (Bet my nail salon is gonna love me for that remark -- more $ for them)

Originally, I thought it was trendy to use interesting colors.

Next the idea of "crackle" or "magnetic" ripple nail polish was cool.

And if you're weren't rocking gel polish (with or without the LED lamps) you were so "10 minutes ago."

Then it was the "french manicure" but with any color combination you wanted. (I'm partial to the glossy/matte combination of black polish called "tuxedo."

Or to flip it around as a "reverse" french manicure.

After that I was informed that you're supposed to make your ring finger a different color or have that one decorated a bit more. Thank goodness for press-on nail art!

Now it's textures like "fuzzy" or "Sugar coated" and holographic color-changing paint with metal flakes (aka glitter) in it.

If you ask me -- someone has to much free time on their hands or is creating a need that wasn't there before. LOL But don't you worry, I won't stop till I've tried them all!

Act Naturally

2013-05-27T15:53:00.001-04:00

I've been invited to help with makeup for a small independent film. I was all packed & ready to roll when we found out one of the principle actors walked off the set! So I will now have to prepare for a slightly different cast. Nothing like keeping life interesting.

I'm doing this totally voluntarily, because I feel the experience will be beneficial & the opportunity to network great. (Besides some small part of me would love to say I worked on a movie set.)

I'll let all of you know how it goes after we wrap. Once complete, I'll post the title & how you can go about seeing it.

Having a good day is a state of mind

2013-05-03T21:51:00.001-04:00

I set out to accomplish only a few things today, but felt like I finished a long list instead.

Let me explain...I use a top 6 things "to do" list. No matter how hard I try, usually I only manage to get a few items done & have to put off the rest until the next day. I actually was able to accomplish for the most part all 6 things. I got several other things that weren't a priority done as well. You might say, "so what?" But what is key is I did this all on 5 hours sleep!

It was lovely weather which I got outside to enjoy. I got my dress & shoes on sale for 50% off. I had time for a manicure & pedicure. Got the oil changed, car washed & topped off the tank for the weekend. I tried a new sandwich at Panera. I gave out my card to 5 strangers today. I smiled at babies and complimented women & little girls on their outfits.

I just felt so good about my life, day, etc that I had to share it everywhere & with everyone. (Unofficial job description: spread sunshine) Even the traffic heading home didn't bother me today.

Coincidence, I think not!

2013-02-19T19:19:00.002-05:00

Some days I wonder if coincidences are real or just in my head. The other day I get a mystery call from someone who's name I don't recognize on the caller ID. I ignore the first time but decide to pick up when they called me the very next day. The reason I didn't know the name, was it belonged to someone I didn't know. However, it turns out that the person on the phone was!

In my line of work, if you maintain a certain level of business you get free referrals from the company. I simply list 5 zip codes of towns I service and the next time someone from that zip code searches for a consultant, my name is one of several that will show up.

Well, to back you up a bit, in my youth I was a girl scout. I went to sleep away camp for several summers & one year I met 2 sisters. We became fast friends and stayed in touch for years. Then sometime at the end of high school our correspondence just stopped. I always wondered what happened to them after college but this was before the dawn of Facebook!

Fast forward to current day. When sister "K" meets a fellow consultant at a party. She doesn't buy anything then but months later is interested in something. So she goes to our website to find a new consultant in her area. Guess who's face she sees? Mine. She tells her sister "C" who strangely enough had been thinking of me as she was packing up her belongings to move out of New England. (I guess we took a lot of pictures back then -- before the advent of cell phone with cameras mind you.)

So was it coincidence that I show back up in their lives at this very moment? We'll never know. I'll tell you one thing, I never turn down the gift of friendship. I'm looking forward to meeting up with sister "C" this weekend before she packs up to move out of state this spring.

Why am I doing this?

2013-01-11T22:52:00.001-05:00

I recently was told people don't buy what you do, they buy why you do it. It took a few brain cells to wrap my mind around the concept but I think I get it now.

If folks like you & are inspired by you, they'll enroll themselves in your cause & follow your lead. You have to be sincere & act with purpose though.

I belive in helping mentor women into successful business owners, by teaching them time & money management skills. I want to empower them, so that they might dare to dream bigger and stretch themselves to accomplish more.

I do this through teaching & selling skincare & makeup. I'm not just trying to make $ to pay the bills, I want the freedom of choices that it brings.

So with every client I share my story & what I hope to accomplish. I ask for their help in the hopes that together we can do great things.

Don't forget to say Thank You!

2013-01-02T14:01:00.001-05:00

I recently learned the value of a simple Thank You. We have mostly become a fast paced, high technology society that seemed to have forgotten that people like acknowledgement. i.e. "To paraphrase, people have a sign over their heads that says "make me feel special." (I too like that "good job" or "thank you" when I've completed a task for someone else.)

If it weren't for my positive attitude and energy, I wouldn't be where I am today. To reinforce this point, I firmly believe my gratitude towards others hasn't been forgotten. Actually, it often has paid me back ten fold. Recently, I met someone because he was a Broker/Owner of a Real Estate office near my home. I was just looking for some potential business and networking. Turns out I got much more than that. What I didn't know is he also is in the "appreciation marketing" industry. (What's that, you say?) Why it's the art of saying "Thank You" which has brought him additional income but more importantly, it has brought him customer loyalty.

My industry, pretty much is one of customer service. I help people take better care of their skin, in addition to feeling and looking better. I'm doing most of the giving, so why should I be the one saying Thank You? Because without their business, support and referrals, I'd be out of business. I feel that there is a direct relationship to the strength of your relationship with a client and the longevity of that relationship.

I've been doing some reading up and it's true. Many people save greeting cards and thank you notes long after they were given. More often than not, they just delete emails of the exact same nature. So if you had taken the time and small amount of money to buy a pack of thank you notes and mail them off, not only would you be supporting the jobs of the US Postal service, but you would be giving someone a piece of mail they actually WANT to take and open from their mailbox. (Honestly, my husband lets me get the mail, because in his mind it's "always bills." Yet the upbeat child in me always hopes for a card, a check, coupons or catalog.)

Last night on TV there was a human interest segment about a small business owner who is selling stickers that say "Happy Mail" on them, that folks can buy and put on their mail so the recipient knows it's something to look forward to. (I think I just might have to buy few couple sheets!)

PS Regarding the stationary, you can go green and use post consumer recycled stock. Also, hand delivering the note doesn't hurt either.

Busy being busy

2012-12-11T20:07:00.000-05:00

Well, well, it seems I've left my little blog unattended. I was busy getting married, looking for seasonal work and volunteering my time for a good cause. Oh, not to mention selling my Mary Kay for the holidays.

So you may now call me Mrs. Culver -- that handsome gent would be my husband Brian.(It was at the Harris' Pelham Inn in New Hampshire.) I can't speak highly enough of my vendors, the cake was from Frederick's Pastries, the flowers from Petals Inc, the DJ & uplighting were from AllStar Entertainment, my photographer was Elaine Donahue and the videography was by Visual Excellence Video.

The seasonal work is simply because it's there, but also I sometimes find it's a great way to gain new skills without the commitment of a permanent job. (I've primarily learned cashiering but also various sales techniques, how bookstores are organized, the best way to rotate stock and face the product and in general learning what the customer really wants.)

The volunteer work, is an extension of the American Cancer Society Relay for Life I walked last year. If you scroll back one entry -- to this summer. You'll see that I am both a cancer survivor and caretatker (my dad was diagnosed with the same cancer 14 years after me.) Now I'm the team co-captain and have decided to take on a leadership role by being part of the Relay Committee for our town as well as the Team Development Chair (coordinating all the team captains for our event) this year. If you want to know more check out this site and find a relay near you. http://www.relayforlife.org/

I would be remiss to mention my Mary Kay business. Not to sell you anything but to let you know I'm doing an adopt a grandparent program. I have an association with the activities director at Wingate Healthcare nursing homes in Needham and Sudbury (they were nice enough to invite me to their holiday craft fairs) so I figured it was time to give back. Most of these folks don't have visitors or even get gifts during the holidays. So I'm looking for folks to be sponsors for $20 your "Grandparent" will get a mint foot lotion, satin hands lotion and warm fuzzy socks all nicely packaged with a bow. (I'm matching all gifts by donating my profits.) My goal is to give 120 of these, so I really need your help. Please contact me for more information: KRoseCarol@marykay.com (781-816-7465)

Taking time out to do some good

2012-06-05T22:33:00.000-04:00

Sorry I've been away too long. I recently was "downsized" from my day job and cranked up my "fun job" to full time. As a Mary Kay beauty consultant I have made the decision to make it my full time job by becoming a sales director. (That takes a bit of focus, hence the lack of blogging.) OK shameless plug aside, let's get back on topic...

I'm doing the American Cancer Society: Relay for Life with my cousin this week. So glad the rain will finally stop (up here in New England) so we can truly enjoy the night sky. As a Thyroid cancer survivor myself, I thought it was time to do something for the cause. (I've walked for everyone else's fundraisers: JDRF, ADA, MS, etc, but I feel like this is my own.) It's been almost exactly 14 years since I had my surgery. I hadn't even heard about thyroid cancer. So naturally I panicked when I was diagnosed. Fortunately, we caught it early enough that all I have to show for it is a small (yet cool "pirate scar" as I tell my nephews.)

I was only 22 at the time. Then 2 years ago, my father (67 years old), was diagnosed with the same cancer. It was my turn to help him go through the process and hold his hand. Kind of odd to me that the child was leading the parent. I gave him books to read and talked to him about what would happen. Thankfully, technology had improved in 10 years, so his procedure was less invasive with a faster recovery time. It's an odd bond we share, so when I walk this week at the relay, I'm both survivor and caretaker.

I can't take all the credit though, as my mother helped both of us through our respective dilemmas. She is the ultimate nurturer. Mom went out of her way to prep our food according to the doctor's restrictions/specifications. She made sure we took our "pills" and took care of our scars. Mom's great like that! Every cancer patient needs someone like my mom caring for them.

So as I walk around the track, looking at the faces, the luminaries, and reliving the memories, I'll be smiling, not crying as I know I'm stronger for having lived through this. Not everyone is so fortunate. Some people experience much more malicious forms of cancer. Ones that attack the body viciously, without relent. I understand many people who will be there have lost one or more friends/family to cancer and I respect and honor their memory.

My take home message is this. If there's an ACS: Relay in your neighborhood, please sponsor a walker, or even better, join the cause and walk with them.

Thank you
Kristen

Classic Beauty

2012-01-24T10:08:00.000-05:00

What is considered classic beauty? I honestly feel it could change over time as people's opinions of what is beautiful do. The gist of what I think it is: the face is so well structured and flawless, a person don't need make up. As one blogger I was reading put it: A classic beauty looks just as beautiful in the morning and she does in the night, she can wear anything and people will still only notice her face, you don't need specific lighting or make up to make her look good. Another way of putting it: A classic beauty would be considered beautiful no matter what time period they lived in.... the 50's, the 20's, the 80's, or now. So that might explain why some actresses through the years, even long after they have passed are still held up as an example of what is considered beautiful.

These would be my personal favorites:

Audrey Hepburn

Bridgitte Bardou

Grace Kelly

Katherine Hepburn

Elizabeth Taylor

Marylin Monroe

Rita Hayworth

Sophia Loren

Although I considered it, the lyrics to Madonna's "Vouge" only came to mind after the fact!

Would you buy skincare from a vending machine?

2012-01-12T10:35:00.000-05:00

No, I would not. I'd still go to a store or a beauty consultant before resorting to a vending machine.

In it's defense, if you've already consulted with a dermatologist, then perhaps when you need a "refill" this might be a good thing.

But there's something so impersonal about using a machine that just doesn't seem right.

I saw this a the mall and decided to look at how it works. You use the touch screen and pay with a major credit card. They provide an 800 number if you have any questions or problems. The same number for "consultation" is used for if you have any problems with the product, such as needing to return it.

I will give them kudos for their policy that if you're not happy with it, you can send back the half-empty bottles for a refund.Very few places will let you do that, so they must believe in the quality of their product.

I noticed that other skincare brands have not jumped on this bandwagon yet. I guess it works better for iPhones and other items (often found at airport terminals and hotel gift shops.)

How do you prefer to shop for makeup and skincare?

2012-01-03T12:07:00.000-05:00

I found growing up that my mother would prefer to get a catalog from her Avon lady through the local hair salon, than go into a department store to talk to the gals at the beauty counter. once she tried and found a brand she liked, she stuck to it. (She probably got it as a gift first and then decided to reorder when she ran out.) Nowadays you can shop from many direct sales companies like Arbonne much in the same way. (I think she found it less intimidating as she didn't know much and didn't really want to bother.)

If they had the internet back then, she'd have probably bought things online, had them shipped home and tried them out that way.) Although return policies vary from company to company, most don't take back opened merchandise, so I'd have probably ended up with "gifts" from time to time.

Personally, I like trying things and asking questions. So I'm more of a hands on kind of shopper. Although, I too find the department store approach a bit much -- you're on their turf and they're eager to show you "everything." It can be a bit much if you're not ready for the information overload. I have found the pharmacies that have beauty sections with a consultant are a little more approachable. It's a good place to start if you just have some basic questions about what cleanser to use, or how to find makeup that looks good on your skin.

I know the specialty stores like , The Body Shop, MAC and Sephora are really amazing to wander around in - like Disney World of skincare/cosmetics stores, but unless you know what you're looking for, sometimes you come off as a little uneducated.(I personally didn't know what foundation primer was for the longest time. To me is sounded like supplies to build a home! LOL) But if you are willing to be patient you can learn a lot from a helpful clerk. Don't be afraid, just ask.

I will admit to some bias as I've worked both at Bath & Body Works and in Mary Kay. I liked that they'd let you try something on your hand and wash it off at the sink. They wanted you to try stuff, because then you'd know before you put any money down what you were getting into. Also, they seemed to encourage you with a satisfaction guarantee -- I'm sure other stores do it too -- but I personally knew they honored it as a former employee.

I guess, the less folks feel at risk of losing money or feeling stupid, the more comfortable they will feel shopping. (I'm absolutely certain there are some very sharp women out there who are fearless, know their stuff and could teach the clerks a thing or two, but they're probably in the minority.) The rest of us are a bit lost in all the terminology and trends. All they want is to just look good.

In the end it's good that there's no one way to do it. So whatever method of shopping works for you, kudos!

New Year's Resolutions

2011-12-28T13:19:00.000-05:00

According to Wikipedia.org "A New Years Resolution is generally a goal someone sets out to accomplish in the coming year."

I honestly believe the idea is a good one, but honestly, I can't think of one that I really kept. (Most fizzle out a month or so after being made.) So, why do we do it? The promise of hope and new things perhaps? The impetus to change something about ourselves that's less than desirable?

Many of us try to "get fit" or "quit smoking" or "make more time to spend with friends and family" or "get out of debt." All are admirable but kind of vague. The key is making small achievable goals. This way we make some progress which encourages us to keep going.

I'm going to directly quote from: http://www.mygoals.com/about/NewYearsTips.html because I felt it really did a good job saying what I wanted to. (I don't usually refer to other articles, but it would have been too hard to paraphrase.)

There is a right way and a wrong way to make a New Year's resolution. Here are a few expert tips to see that your resolution actually makes a difference:

1. Create a Plan
Setting a goal without formulating a plan is merely wishful thinking. In order for your resolution to have resolve, (as the word "resolution" implies), it must translate into clear steps that can be put into action. A good plan will tell you A) What to do next and B) What are all of the steps required to complete the goal.

2. Create Your Plan IMMEDIATELY
If you're like most people, then you'll have a limited window of opportunity during the first few days of January to harness your motivation. After that, most people forget their resolutions completely.
It is imperative that you begin creating your plan immediately.

3. Write Down Your Resolution and Plan
myGoals.com exists to help you formulate a plan, which we then help you stick to. But even if you don't use myGoals.com, commit your resolution and plan to writing someplace, such as a notebook or journal.

4. Think "Year Round," Not Just New Year's
Nothing big gets accomplished in one day. Resolutions are set in one day, but accomplished with a hundred tiny steps that happen throughout the year. New Year's resolutions should be nothing more than a starting point. You must develop a ritual or habit for revisiting your plan. myGoals.com helps you stick to your plan by providing email reminders that arrive when it's time to work on a given task.

And finally...

5. Remain Flexible
Expect that your plan can and will change. Life has a funny way of throwing unexpected things at us, and flexibility is required to complete anything but the simplest goal. Sometimes the goal itself will even change. Most of all, recognize partial successes at every step along the way. Just as a resolution isn't accomplished the day it's stated, neither is it accomplished the day you reach your goal. Rather, it's accomplished in many small increments along the way. Acknowledge these incremental successes as they come.

Roses are red, hot lips are too...

2011-12-20T11:27:00.000-05:00

Why is it we have to dare to wear red lipstick? It's a perfectly nice shade actually. Lately, we have seen celebs sporting the trend on the red carpet, at events and in casual everyday wear.

Why have they been doing this? Some believe it's because of the period pieces many of them have been performing in. Others think it's very festive especially at this time of year.

It's not just a look for holidays like valentines though. Red lips are a great way to add drama to an otherwise natural look. They are also perfect if you are looking to take a daytime look into nighttime.

Some folks grew up thinking, much like I did, that red lips belonged solely to powerful, confident & sexy people. (The rest of us could wear pink! LOL) I personally did dabble in red lips mostly for Halloween costumes or dance recitals -- where high visibility was important. But don’t be scared if you have never tried red lips before; you can always start with a sheer lip shade.

One of the benefits of red lips is it's artificial but instant teeth whitening effect. (see picture below)

I do know that some ladies prefer more of a burgundy or blood red, but I kind of like the fire engine or cherry red. It really pops especially when you tone down the rest of your makeup wearing neutrals on the eyes. Also, what color/pattern of clothing you choose to wear with it can also make a difference. (Exactly how much attention do you want?)

I decided to try something: for 1 week I'll be wearing Mary Kay Really Red creme lipstick topped with Rockn' Red lip gloss. Let's see what kinds of reactions I get...

Trendy hats, coats, boots, etc to keep you warm this winter

2011-12-13T13:01:00.000-05:00

About a month ago I was talking about not letting yourself get cold and dehydrated. And since then I've talked about various parts of cold weather protection. I think I managed to suck the fun right out of things, so this week I wanted to touch upon something more pleasant: keeping warm and looking good at the same time!

The key is layers of thin clothes. Feel free to mix it up with different colors, textures & patterns. I believe the idea is to allow you to adjust your body temperature by adding/removing layers as needed. You could wear a tank top or thin jersey followed by a cardigan,

Many times we can lose body heat from our heads, as we forget to cover them. You don't however have to wear a knit cap with a big puffy pom-pom on top. There are other options. Headbands are a nice alternative, although they don't cover the top they at least keep the ears covered and can be worked into most hairstyles. A smart wool cap or fedora will do too.

Nowadays not only are scarves warm, but they come in so many varieties/styles that they are truly stylish and can pull an outfit together. Indoors or out, scarves are "in."

My personal dilemma is: mittens or gloves? I love gloves, but find mittens more efficient at keeping my fingers/hands warm. I'll leave it up to you which you choose to use. (I recently discovered gloves, by Finger Logic, with special finger tips that have capacitive threads in them allowing you to use your touchscreen technology without leaving your hands cold.

You may want to have several jackets/coats to choose from -- for different occasions and weather conditions. For instance wearing leather in the rain/snow is not advised. But a nice fluffy parka with a hood would be. I also have "snow shoveling" coat Vs a "going out on a Friday night" coat. Sometimes the lighter weight jackets can be worn from fall right into spring, depending on your mastery of layering mentioned above.

I believe that most people would think twice before donning "long underwear" but don't even blink if you suggest wearing leggings. (Much thicker than tights or nylons, they keep your legs warm when you wear dresses and skirts (or maxi sweater/dresses.) However you could wear them under your jeans, as a little insulation, when spending prolonged hours outside -- if you're out ice skating or "walking in a winter wonderland" perhaps.

Speaking of walking...boots are made for just that! (Sorry, really bad pun of song lyrics.) Weather you're a fashionista or just looking for something practical, your primary concern is keeping those cute toes of yours warm. Depending on the occasion, you may need/want to have several pairs to chose from. I actually suggest having a change with you, if you've been out frolicking in the snow but want something cute for later at night.

So get out there, get creative, play with looks and styles and most of all have fun!

Why am I getting zits now? I’m not 16 anymore!

2011-12-06T11:56:00.001-05:00

Adult acne is more common than we once thought. about 1/4 of men and 1/2 of women can suffer from it. As of right not there's no instant fix but there are a few good treatments.

Acne usually begins with blackheads Blackheads are not dirt, they're actually the result of oil and dead cells getting trapped in a pore where they block the duct and mix with bacteria. They then turn black when exposed to air. Red pimples develop when blackheads become inflamed and they spread when touched with dirty hands. When the pimple becomes infected, it develops a whitehead or pustule. These can break and cause scars.

There are often different reasons why adults develop acne compared to kids. Some are: Stress, bad cosmetics, hormones and birth control pills. (Stress causes your oil glands to overcompensate. Bad cosmetics lead to bacteria-laden pores. Hormones cause the sebacuous glands to overact and birth control pills with androgen in them can cause breakouts.) Some women develop adult acne after menapause.
As we get older our skin doesn't bounce back like it used to, so sometimes adult acne can have longer-lasting effects than the kind younger people have. This leads to more scarring. It can also make the sufferer feel rather self-conscious.

Treatments for adult acne are similar to the ones for teenagers but we have to be a bit more gentle. People tend to scrub too hard, which causes inflammation. Whatever you use, prescription strength or over-the-counter, proper care should be taken to manage the drying effects on the skin.
For acne that does not respond to over-the-counter methods you may have to see a dermatologist. There are also acne treatments that specifically address hormonal acne and new progress is being made in laser acne treatments. While seeing a dermatologist can be expensive, it may be necessary if over-the-counter remedies have been ineffective.

Overall, determining the best treatment for adult acne can take time and money. What works for one person may not necessarily work for another. Spend time evaluating the various options in eliminating adult acne and start experimenting. Finding the solution to your case could mean trying many products before finally finding success. But do not get discouraged and know that you are not alone, an acne-free existence could be one product away.

Nailed it!

2011-11-29T12:54:00.001-05:00

I am guilty of just painting my nails one color because I don't have a steady enough hand to do the traditional pink and white french manicure.

But now that the trend is moving towards using brighter or even darker colors, AND you're even allowed to flip it around, I'm more intrigued.

Have you tried a gold tip french manicure with a dark burgandy, black or navy blue? Perhaps pink and red is more your speed? (Try silver or sparkles even.)

Maybe your nails are short and you don't want to emphasize it with a wide stripe up top? Then mimic the half-moon at the base of your nail with color.

The key here is contrast. Why bother doing it, if you can't see it? Just think of two great colors that look stunning together.

Another thing I'm seeing now, and dying to try out myself, is magnetic nail polish. (I thought the crackle gel polish was cool but this really is neat!) The idea is just after you paint the nail, you hold it over the cap which conveniently has a magnet built into it. After 30 seconds to a minute the rippled effect starts to set.

I'd highly advise waiting another minute or two before adding a top coat to seal it -- or you might just drag the brush right through your trendy new look. Unless that's what you're going for, like the way a cake decorator pulls a toothpick through a stripe of icing to make it have a point.

Why not take it to the next level? Use a magnetic color as your primary, and then use a daring contrasting color as the tip -- once you've let the ripples set.

[I don't have permission to publish the photos I've seen (as I don't own them) but I hope the descriptions give you an idea what I'm seeing out there.]

Uggs – Warm, cute, but are they good for your feet?

2011-11-22T11:24:00.001-05:00

Let me just say right off the bat, I don't wear Uggs or any other brand of sheepskin "boot." I think they're overdone slippers and they lack anything practical. They have no arch support, aren't waterproof, and because they don't have any way to vent the heat and moisture from your foot (socks or no socks) it's a prime home for bacteria and foot fungus.

That being said, much like slippers, they're comfy. My sister-in-law who (shall remain nameless to protect her identity) LOVES hers and has more than one pair in different colors/styles. Maybe it has more to do with the idea that the celebrities wear them, so why shouldn't the common folk?

Personally, being of the piscean persuasion, I truly believe as my zodiac sign reigns over the feet, that it's no surprise I have small feet to support a short, round person and constantly have foot troubles. (From foot and back pain to athletes foot -- if I don't wear supportive shoes or "air out" my feet respectively.) My problems aside, I've researched it and found that I'm not alone in my beliefs.

Podiatrists have also claimed that this boot design does not always provide the stability that some people need and the heel often rolls towards the inner edge of the boot. This can be a sign that the arches of the feet are weakening and may be at risk from a strain injury and discomfort and pain are often the result. Using UGG-like boots to keep your feet warm makes sense but walking longer distances in them may give you more than you bargained for. Sacrificing comfort for style can come at a price. (Much in the same way you wouldn't wear stilettos all day and night without a break, or to run a marathon.)

If you have healthy feet, and wear them for comfort not "walking" you'll probably be fine. But if you already have foot problems, such as myself, your best bet is to treat them as indoor shoes/slippers or not wear them at all.

(Well at least during the summer you have an alternative to the flip flop - which I feel is equally as bad as the Ugg-like boot. Maybe you'd be better off with a pair of Crocs! At least they've been approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association for helping to eliminate plantar pain and achy feet. Now if only they could come out with a winterized version...)

Chapped lips – what to do about them.

2011-11-14T14:38:00.001-05:00

Signs and Symptoms of Chapped Lips

Chapped Lips are characterized by dry, cracked, flaky and sore lips that can affect people from time to time at any time of the year. Occasionally, chapped Lips can be can be painful, embarrassing, and uncomfortable because they can interfere with many daily activities, such as smiling, eating and talking.

Common signs and symptoms include dryness, redness, tenderness and sensitivity, cracking, splitting, peeling, and pain. If dry lips are causing inflammation and bleeding, it is strongly recommended that you consult with your doctor immediately since it can lead to severe infection.

Causes of Chapped Lips

Chapped lips can have several causes, including dry weather, overexposure to extreme temperatures, dehydration, lip biting, smoking, certain medications, deficiency of vitamins, iron or essential fatty acids, change in climate and ill-fitting dentures.

Dry, swollen, or cracked lips can also be caused by allergies, infections, drugs, winter colds and flus, and a number of other medical problems.

Treating/Chapped Lips

Lips are skin just like the rest of your body but they don't produce their own oils. So you have to provide them. Many lip balms have natural oils that are safe for your mouth. Try to avoid colors, scents and flavors as they have additives that may not be so good for you.

Along with drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, eating vitamin a rich foods like carrots, tomatoes, and green leafy vegetables will help.

You should exfoliate them periodically, and protect them from the environment. (Never ever lick of bite your lips, it will cause more chapping. Use a gentle lip mask or your toothbrush to get rid of the deposit of dead cells that will cause more drying and flaking.)

I'm cold, but I'm not thirsty!

2011-11-08T16:57:00.000-05:00

Did you know that it's just as important to stay hydrated in the colder/drier winter months as it is in the hot/humid summer months? We generally sweat when we're hot which lets us know to drink more water, but we don't get those same cues when we're cold, because sweat evaporates quickly in cold, dry air, so you can still become dehydrated.

You might be tempted to drink coffee or tea to warm up but they are diuretics and can cause you to actually lose water, so you have to compensate with water. Also, remember to keep your skin hydrated in the dry winter air, too. Skin is the body’s largest organ. Keep it healthy, and it will help to keep your entire body healthy.

When you sweat you loose fluids, and under normal circumstances, your body would register the loss, giving you the urge to drink and stopping the kidneys from getting rid of water. But in the cold, your body decreases blood flow to your extremities and pumps it into your core to hold all that heat in while you’re out in the cold. With all that blood rushing towards your vital organs and away from your extremities, your body and brain don’t register that you have lost significant amounts of fluid and might be dehydrated. When this is the case, the effects of dehydration can become severe before you even realize you’re dehydrated. That’s why it’s critically important to stay properly hydrated before and during cold weather activity, well in advance of the actual urge to drink fluids.

Also, when you’re cold, your blood viscosity increases. With hypothermia, for example, the blood can become as much as 200% more viscous. (Like motor oil, higher viscosity means it’s thicker, harder to pump.) The water content of your blood is another factor in viscosity—so, when you’re out in the cold, staying sufficiently hydrated becomes that much more important.

We tend not to think about being thirsty when it’s cold, neither when we’re just going about our lives nor when we’re working out, but that’s when it’s really important to pay attention to drinking enough. And it’s especially important in higher altitudes where the air tends to be dryer.

Just to be clear, dehydration can kill. Considering that our bodies are made up of 50% to 65% water, this element is critical to virtually all our physical functions. Every organ and system of the body depends on water, so a shortage of fluid can naturally lead to serious health consequences.

The body's initial signs and symptoms of dehydration are:

Thirst
Decreased urine output. The urine will become concentrated and more yellow in color.
Fatigue
Headache
Dry nasal passages
Dry, cracked lips dry mouth the eyes stop making tears sweating may stop muscle cramps nausea and vomiting lightheadedness (especially when standing). weakness will occur as the brain and other body organs receive less blood.
Coma and organ failure will occur if the dehydration remains untreated.
Irritability & confusion in the elderly should also be heeded immediately.

If an individual becomes confused or lethargic; if there is persistent, uncontrolled fever, vomiting, or diarrhea; or if there are any other specific concerns, then medical care should be accessed. Call 911 for any patient with altered mental status - confusion, lethargy, or coma.

Baby it's Cold Outside

2011-11-01T13:45:00.000-04:00

Brrr, is it winter already? Recently my area (New England) fell into a cold spell. The first thin I reached for was a sweater (the next was hot cocoa.)

Why does it always feel worse when it's windy out?

Wind chill (or wind chill factor) is the air temperature we feel on our exposed skin because of the wind blowing across it. You might notice when watching the weather that the wind chill temperature is always lower than the air temperature.

One of the ways our bodies loose heat is through "convection." The faster the wind speed, the more readily the skin/surface cools.

NOAA's National Weather service has a chart that helps you see this better. Also on this page is a neat little calculator that shows you what the temperature feels like on a given day based on wind speed:

http://www.nws.noaa.gov/os/windchill/index.shtml

Note: Wet clothing and the duration of a person's exposure to wind also affect the felt air temperature. The wind chill formulas do not take account of the variation of clothing worn and how wet or dry a person is. The typical assumption is that a person will be properly dressed and dry.

Since hypothermia is no joke, I wanted to make sure everyone takes precautions this year.

What is hypothermia?

Hypothermia is a condition in which a person's body temperature has dropped significantly below normal. This occurs from inadequate protection against exposure to cold temperatures. The very young and elderly are the most susceptible to developing hypothermia when exposed to cold temperatures.

The risk and extent of hypothermia is directly influenced by presence of wet clothing, contact with metals, wind-chill, and extent of temperature gradient between the body and its surroundings. Vulnerability is increased when circulation is impaired by cardiovascular disease, alcohol intake, exhaustion, and/or hunger.

What are the symptoms of hypothermia?

Uncontrolled shivering
Slow or unclear speech
Feeling extremely tired
Stumbling when attempting to walk
Confusion (person cannot think clearly)
Semi-consciousness or unconsciousness

What should I do if someone has hypothermia?

If a person becomes unconscious, get medical help immediately. If cardiac arrest (heart attack) has occurred, have someone call for medical assistance and then apply CPR.
WARNING: Do not warm the person too fast.
Bring the person indoors or to a dry place protected from the wind.
Remove wet clothing and cover the person with dry blankets. Make sure to cover the head, hands, and feet.
Put the person in a cot or bed next to a warm -- not hot -- heater.
Lie under the covers next to the person to transfer your own body heat. If possible, have someone else lie on the other side.
Give the person warm -- not hot -- broth or soup. Do not give alcohol to drink.
Wrap an infant inside your own clothing against your skin.

How can I prevent hypothermia?

Wear warm, multi-layered clothing with good hand and feet protection (avoid overly constricting wrist bands, socks, and shoes).
Wear warm headgear. This is particularly important since significant heat is lost through an unprotected head.
If possible, change into dry clothes whenever clothing becomes wet.
Find appropriate shelter to stay warm.

(Please note: If left untreated, a person can develop early frostbite, or frostnip; superficialfrostbite; or deep frostbite, or freezing. Frostbite usually affects the nose, ears, upper cheeks, hands and feet.)