Iva Messy

Weleda Pomegranate Firming Eye Cream

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:41:00 +0000

I’ve spent the majority of my life outside, everyday for hours in the beautiful bright sun. Admittedly the years before turning 20 or so I rarely wore sunscreen. Mostly because I always felt like it stung and which invincible youngster voluntarily puts up with that? Lately I’ve been scrutinizing my skin and wondering how much damage my previous life {as I call it} did.

Like many other women, I have always been one to love trying all kinds of beauty products. Until a few years ago my primary concern has been using products that didn’t make my skin break out. These days I am very critical and skeptical of if the creams live up to their claims of diminishing fine lines and wrinkles and preventative premature aging. I’m also one to be keenly aware that if a product says it diminishes the appearance of fine lines that’s not a promise to reduce them.

Recently I’ve been noticing a few more fine lines by my eyes. It could be because the last few months I’ve been getting closer to 4 hours of shuteye rather than my usual 6, and since facial fat starts shrinking around the eyes first, the eyes are the first place to see stress. Or maybe because cold weather plays with your circulation and skin, in the winter my skin is always drier making every little skin imperfection more visible. Yet it could be a mix of a few things, and quite probably simply the aging fact of life.

I’ve been on the hunt for an eye cream that works but will not damage the already delicate eye area. Standard eye creams can include alcohols, ammonia, phthalates, parabens and synthetic fragrances {to name a few}, but the scariest ingredient of all is hydroquinone. It is a strong skin whitener that is banned in the UK and other places. Since it lightens skin it also reduces melanin which is your skin’s own UV protector. The FDA also stated that hydroquinone cannot be ruled out as a potential carcinogen.

While picking up groceries at Whole Foods Weleda’s Pomegranate Firming Eye Cream caught my attention. I have always loved Weleda’s products, but in this case it was the pomegranate that really drew me in. The Pomegranate Firming Eye Cream is part of a new line, Aging Skin, from Weleda. It is antioxidant-rich using organic pomegranate seed oil as its ingredient to firm and protect the eye area. A tiny tab goes a very long way. It’s incredibly rich and smooth. I was surprised the first time I put it on, it has a bit of a stimulating feeling to it.

I have been using it for 10 days straight, every morning and night. I absolutely love it. Not only does it feel like it works, I see a difference. What I have noticed the most is after hours of wearing makeup, my foundation does not settle into the fine lines around my eyes as it had been doing, which leads me to believe the lines are less deep.

I would definitely recommend it to someone who is looking for a gentle eye cream that also works {and relatively quickly in this case}or maybe even as a preventative product. If you are interested in giving it a try you can pick it up at Whole Foods {like I did for $34}, on Weleda for $33, or on Amazon for less than $22.

Bay Area Family Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 19:11:00 +0000

{Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo}

Resolutions?   Over them. I've been done with them for a while.   But for some reason I've kept hanging on to making bold declarations which 9 times out of 10 has left me breaking them fairly quickly, and in turn disappointment in myself.   It's like setting yourself up for failure which is completely ridiculous.   Thanks to my wiser and older self, this year I've moved on to broad goal setting.

One of my goals is to to be less routine as a family on the weekends.   Our weekends are packed with fun activities, but in a way I'm starting to feel very repetitive.   It's not something the kids notice at all, since of course they love the library visits, playings sports, attending basketball games, birthday parties,downtown strolls and parks galore. But I love seeing the look on their faces at the sight of a new place, the questions that come with it, the experience and memories they bring back home, and stories they tell about that visit.

Since I'm a fan of the laid back approach {generally speaking} and prefer outings to not feel like scheduled events, my plan is to stay simple and keep many a surprise for the kids.   Less stress for me, and way more fun for them. My kind of thing - win, win.   And who knows. Maybe this will even turn into a mini series of family outings in the Bay Area.   We'll see what happens.

The great thing about goals is that they often have by-products that accompany them. For instance, we'll be exploring this beautiful area that we definitely take for grated because like many people, we don't stop enough to appreciate that which is readily available.

Happy MLK Day!

Today I Am 30

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 15:47:00 +0000

Yesterday I was a twentysomething. Today I am 30. I’m actually very giddy about it.

Beautiful memories and milestones filled my twenties, none more noteworthy than getting married and having children. The decade was phenomenal. But I’m very much so looking forward to my 30s. Truth be told, I spent a good chunk of my twenties worried about things that can be physically, mentally and emotionally draining.

I’ve weighed myself more times than I care to even think about, worried did I say the right or wrong thing, or if I’ve ever inadvertently hurt someone’s feelings. I’ve said yes to things because saying no causes me an exorbitant amount of guilt and sleepless nights. I’ve stared at my thighs, cursed my cellulite, analyzed my nose from every which angle and wished my grandfather’s aquablue eyes upon me.

I keep my own bar vary high. Actually, I raise it if I’m within miles of reaching it. I expect a lot from myself. What’s ironic is that I’m my family’s and friends biggest fan. I see their greatness, believe in them, and never let them doubt or second guess themselves. They do the same for me. They are my unwavering strength, my inspiration, my energy. If they can be all of that for me, and me for them, why can’t I also be that for myself.

I’ve been my toughest critic. Maybe you could even say I haven’t loved myself enough. But my 30s will be different, because “after 30, a body has a mind of its own” {Bette Midler} and “time always stands still for a woman of 30” {Robert Frost}.

I'm a perfectionist and that will never change, nor do I want it to. But, I want to see in the mirror what my husband sees when he looks at me, love myself unconditionally as my children do, put myself first more like my parents do, and believe in myself the way my friends do.

I want to connect with myself. Know who I am meant to be. Figure out what defines me.

And you know what? I think I'm on my way, because yesterday I wouldn't have had the courage to post this.

{I couldn't think of a more special person to share a birthday with! Happy Birthday Tali!}

Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 07:17:00 +0000

{Apologies if you follow me on Twitter you've already seen these}

Wishing you an incredibly happy, healthy, prosperous, safe, memorable and dreamy 2012! I hope it's everything you plan it to be with sweet surprises thrown in! ;)

The Daily Cup of Coffee ... Why It Might Not Be That Bad For You

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 17:12:00 +0000

The caffeine in your favorite coffee is absorbed in your body within 30-45 minutes. There it works as a stimulant on your central nervous system. During this time, you feel full of energy. Three hours later, the effects of caffeine dwindle and you find yourself on your way towards a second round.

{image}

The 'experts' call this caffeine dependence - not addiction. Either way though, withdrawal from caffeine dependence can be difficult, including headaches, anxiety, change in mood, decreased energy and/or difficulty concentrating. On the bright side though, withdrawal symptoms typically last for just a few days. The question really is though, do we really have to completely kick the caffeine to the curb, or can we still enjoy the occasional cup?

There have been more than 19,000 studies on caffeine and coffee, in an attempt to determine its exact effects on the human body.

Frank Hu, MD, MPH, PhD, nutrition and epidemiology professor at the Harvard School of Public Health, says “there is certainly much more good news than bad news, in terms of coffee and health.”

In the majority of healthy adults, moderate amounts of caffeine is not bad. It may even have positive effects. Aside from increased alertness and concentration, recent studies show the potential benefits of caffeine include:

Lower Dementia Risk.
More endurance during workouts.
Reduced risk of Parkinson's disease, liver disease, colorectal cancer & type 2 diabetes.
Decreased allergic reactions because of caffeine's ability to reduce histamines.
Improved immune function from caffeine’s anti-inflammatory effects.

{Of course it is important to note that if your heart pounds and you get jittery, you may be caffeine sensitive. Make sure to check in with your doctor.}

Happy Monday Lovelies!

It's Black , It's White, It's Grey

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 17:51:00 +0000

First and foremost, my sincerest apologies for lack of commenting on your beautiful blogs {although I am reading them in my reader!}, and inconsistent posting on my part! These past few weeks have been overwhelmingly busy, and truthfully, will continue to be for the next month or so.

Whilst I am always a busy bee {which I generally love to be busy and productive}, this current pace of 'busy' is out of my norm and I'm just trying to navigate through it ;)

In the mean time, outfits are taking a hit in the creative department and these on and off cold/hot days are leaving me totally frustrated deciding on what to wear. Aside from the booties, yesterdays entire outfit seemed to consist of clothes I haven't worn in years. Oh well! It is what it is! ;)

~ White H&M turtleneck {at least 5 years old, although still my favorite one!}
~ Black tight Express pants {which tend to be my go-to's when 'everything' else seems to be at the dry cleaners}
~ Mike & Chris Jacket {similar one here}
~ Ralph Lauren belt
~ Grey ALDO booties {which I should have bought a half size larger}

Happy Wednesday! Have a great day!
xoxo

Conscientious Sleek Locks

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 23:17:00 +0000

1) Mango Milk Hair Repair Treatment uses organic mango and green tea extracts, jojoba, avocado, cocoa and cotton flower extract, protecting hair from free-radical damage, and moisturizes and adds shine.
2) iTech Ionic Tourmaline Hair Dryer dries hair faster with the ionic technology, using less energy.
3) HairArt H3000 Tourmaline Ceramic Straightening Iron comes with petroleum-free straightening plates and is designed to automatically reduce heat when not in use as a means of conserving energy.
4) Josie Maran's 100% Organic Argan Oil helps keep hair sleek by keep out humidity,while adding the perfect amout of shine!

*Happy Martin Luther King Day!*

Words Become Your Emotions & Reality

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 05:21:00 +0000

Do you ever call yourself names or say things under your breathe, mocking yourself out of frustration or disappointment?

While words might just seem like words, they have been proven to be extremely powerful in shaping strong feelings that can create colossal joy or terrible sadness. Research shows that for many people, repeated {even if joking} negative phrases referencing yourself can have the same effect as an abusive parent, boss, spouse, or friend telling you over and over that you are 'worthless' or' dumb'. At some point, you might begin to actually feel that way. What may have only seemed like just a word later becomes your reality {Potentially leading to depression, anxiety, and an inability to successfully, achieve your goals}.

Instead of calling yourself names, take those negative statements and turn them into positive affirmations. The power of positive thinking is supported by science. Positive emotions affect your general happiness, your health and ability to achieve goals that you may have once thought impossible. Positivity can change the contents of your mind and widen the possibilities that you see. Many emotions start with thoughts, and thoughts are mostly made up of words. We have the power to change our emotions and beliefs about who we are and what we are capable of accomplishing, by taking the time to consciously change our words from negative to positive ones.

So, support yourself. Be your own best friend. Laugh things off when your day doesn't seem like it's going smoothly, and watch how your view of things will change! ...and I think you are totally awesome! ;)

Flowy Mini Skirt

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 16:41:00 +0000

Under normal circumstances, posting two days in a row of, let's be totally honest here, relatively similar outfits , would not likely happen. However, since time is of the essence, and I'm totally excited about this skirt, I'm just going with it and posting.

The other day my fabulous friend Christina, tweeted about an "adorable skirt". I just happened to be looking through my timeline, and of course I took a peek...and obviously bought it. It arrived Monday evening, so it was basically impossible for me not to have fun with it yesterday.

I am really just so giddy about this skirt. It's completely adorable and I'm excited to wear it in so many different ways. I'm already planning the next 'look' for it. This skirt is so versatile and, the best part, completely comfortable and ridiculously soft.

As Christina mentioned, the skirt is on sale from $100 to only $25! The only down side is that they only have it left in size 2 {which is what I am wearing}. I would have preferred a 4 so I could wear it both on my hips and waist but for $25 it's really such a steel! YAY! Thank you Christina! ;)

Happy Wednesday lovelies!

Baby, It's Cold Outside

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 18:27:00 +0000

I was getting more comfortable with setting up my camera and taking outfit photos of myself. Of course I was never 100% at ease with it, always picking more hidden areas in the hopes that nobody would drive or walk by. Still there have been plenty of times someone would stop and offer to take my picture, but totally embarrassed I'd say no thank you, and scurry off. But, it's been a bit since I've consistently taken outfit shots, so I feel like I'm back to square one, and have to ease my way back into not worrying so much about what a passer by might be thinking.

It's always easier standing in public with someone else {not something} behind the camera. I'd much rather have fabulous pictures with someone else taking them, settings the camera, focus, lighting...you know...actually use the camera as it should be, versus my auto settings. But since that's not the case, what's the worst that can happen being in public just you and your camera trying to catch a still moment? Nothing. Sure, a few raised eyebrows but ultimately, no big deal...I think... I hope ;)

In other news, it's been ridiculously cold here lately, waking up yesterday to 37 degrees. Whilst, today is a little bit warmer it still doesn't change that fact that I just don't enjoy getting dressed for frigged weather. But I love layers, so in a way, I suppose it evens out.

~ Dress courtesy of So[phis]tiX {first seen here}.
~ Ann Taylor Blazer {last seen here with jeans}.
~ Heels Nine West {first seen in 'A Royal Blue Engagement'}.
~ Ralph Lauren Sweater.
~ DKNY Tights .

Addicted to Junk Food?

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 17:51:00 +0000

A study published in Nature Neuroscience showed that junk food and drugs have some similar effects on the brain. Lab rats fed a constant diet of sausages, bacon, cheesecake and frosting, sought out more junk food even when it meant enduring a painful shock.

The pleasure centers in the rats brains became sluggish after they got used to the endless supply of junk food. They needed bigger doses to get the same good feelings, since their thresholds greatly increased {like a drug addict}.

Neurobiologist Associate Professor Paul Kenny from the Scripps Research Institute in Florida, says overeating junk food can lead to a compulsive habit, one that is beyond your control. Research suggests that there could be something in the accumulated fat itself that alters the brain's reward threshold, creating a cycle of overeating but never feeling satisfied.

Regardless of the reason why and how the brain reacts to junk food, the end result is addiction + weight gain. Try going for healthy snacks instead, like fruits, nuts and veggies!

It's My Birthday!

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 14:21:00 +0000

If you follow me on twitter, you've heard me mention that I'm actually excited about my 29th birthday. Which surprises me a bit, because I thought I'd be worried about the {gasp!} last year of my twenties.

I've definitely had some moments of reflection. Especially yesterday, I paused a few times throughout my day to really internalize if where I was and what I was doing were really fulfilling me. Am I where I wanted to be at 29? I am the best mom, wife, friend, daughter that I can be? In what areas of my life am I maybe not using my time and energy wisely to live my best life? Am I really doing what I am passionate about?

All these questions and more have at some point crossed my mind. For the most part, I'm able to answer my self imposed questions confidently. But there are a few that are lingering, which make me feel somewhat conflicted.

I'm not sure what made me stop and even see it, but seeing"29 in 11" I thought, how fun, 2+9 =11! Making this year 11:11 for me lol! And while I'm not sure if that really even actually means anything, I've always thought 11:11 looked strong. And perception is reality. So, I'm entering 29 confidently.

I really want to thank all of you for being part of my life. You are such a strong community, which I am really grateful to be a part of. Thank you for all your support.

A Huge Happy Birthday to Tali today as well! ;)
...and a very Merry Christmas to any Orthodox readers!

Eco-Friendly For Your Furry Family Members

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 09:11:00 +0000

The 2008 "Pets for the Environment" study by The Environmental Working Group, researched 43 different chemicals and their impact on pets. The study found that dogs and cats had comparable levels to humans in some chemicals, and even higher levels than humans in others.

The three groups of toxic chemicals with very high concentrations were fire retardants, stain and grease resistant chemicals {teflon} and phthalates {plastic}. These chemicals have been shown to cause high rates of several kinds of cancer in dogs.

{Adopt a pet!}

Some simple ways to help green your pets:

Cleaning Products: Try and use only 'green' cleaning products. A clean home is healthy for both you and your pets.

Accessories: If you dress your pets, try and style them with sustainably grown hemp, organic cotton, organic wool, and recycled fabrics.

Water Hole: Instead of using bottled water for your pet, install a counter-mounted or under the sink carbon water filter. You’ll save money, and they will enjoy cleaner, healthy drinking water without BPAs!

Squeaky & Other Toys: For the healthiest toys, try and buy ones that are made from natural materials.

The Gift of Giving ... The Best of Yourself

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 18:17:00 +0000

Jordan Grafman, Ph.D of the National Institute of Health, led a study in which they found that giving affects the same part of the brain that is positively stimulated by sex, drugs and money. They studied subjects' brain activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging {fMRI} in two parts of the brain. One, activated by reward reinforcement {sex, money & drugs} and the other which influences trust and social attachments. The responses proved that giving creates far more brain activity than getting.

{image}

Some ways of giving for a happy endorphin kick:

Time

In most cases time is the most valuable gift, although it's not always the easiest for everyone with such hectic schedules. But trying to open up your schedule even just a little is an incredible gift to give. Try volunteering at a non-profit, or mentoring, reading to children at the local library, or even just reaching out to someone you know could use a shoulder to lean on.

Money

Not everyone is in the position to give money. For those that are, donating to your favorite charity is a great way to support a cause you are passionate about. Local organizations are also a perfect way to give back to your community.

Things

One of your goals for 2011 might have been to organize and stay clutter free. Which is a great opportunity to clean out some things and give to Goodwill, an animal shelter, homeless shelter, toy drives, books to the library....you get the idea! ;)

Your Superhero Powers

Everyone has something that they are superstar at! It's probably something you are passionate about and it's fun for you to do. Invest your own time, money and energy into that. You'll come to find that helping, teaching, mentoring, coaching or guiding someone in something that you are incredibly talented at will be both fulfilling and rewarding for the both of you...then watch the trickle down effect! Who you taught, will teach someone else...and so on and so forth. Remember 'you might just be one person, but to one person you might be the world' ;)

Years Younger .... Remove, Restore, Rejuvenate!

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:21:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, I noticed my friend's skin was looking more flawless then usual. She is a timeless beauty, with perfectly symmetrical features, who I think looks even more beautiful without makeup {to my knowledge she doesn't know of my blog, so I'm not just saying this about her...its true}

For a little bit of background, she is in her later thirties who in the past few years has been reading different books and methods seeking the secret to forever young skin. She'll try each system for awhile, then life happens and, like with all of us, disciple takes a bit of a hit and we give in to comfort.

Like many of us, she doesn't seek out 'diet' advise in these systems for the sole purpose of weight loss. {Whilst it's not always what we want to hear, I think that we all understand that if we burn more calories then we take in, we can maintain a weight that is ideal for us}. It's about trying out lifestyle routines which will give the most energy, provide the best nutrients, yield health benefits, and rejuvenate and restore some youthfulness.

In any case, for a while I could not exactly figure out what was different about her, but she just looked so glowy, happy, bright eyed and her skin! She looked like she turned back the clock seven years. She said that she read Clean: The Revolutionary Program to Restore the Body's Natural Ability to Heal Itself and had been on the 3 week detox plan which she found amazing.

She's given me a copy of the book, which has been sitting on my nightstand. I've skimmed a few pages but haven't had the time to read it. I've never done a 3 week cleanse, which admittedly I'm not sure I could complete. Although, I hear it's mind over matter, so maybe I need to believe in myself and go for it ;)

If I could achieve the same results she did, it would be totally worth it, and the sense of strength of completion I am sure would feel amazing.

If you are interested, you can check out more on it at www.CleanProgram.com.

Reduce Your Hair Print

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:51:00 +0000

We are all looking for ways we can reduce our carbon footprint, and an area that gets overlooked is our hair. Many salons are becoming more green, for example ROB|B 'OPI Concept Salon' in Sherman Oaks, CA. is exclusively 'green' {floors, hand towels, etc.}

Do a little research and ask your stylist how they are contributing to bettering our planet for our future generations!

Some programs salons are offering include:

Hair Recycling Programs: Matter of Trust is a non-profit organization that accepts hair clippings from hair salons and creates mesh hair mats with them. Since hair naturally absorbs oil, these mats are used to soak up oil spills in the ocean.

Recycling: Remember salons can recycle everything from foils, plastic caps, color tubes and the packaging they come in!

Hair Extensions: PURE Extensions, is an eco-friendly hair extension company that uses a cold bond application that is completely free of heat, wax, chemicals and glue.

Color: EcoColors is a non-toxic permanent haircolor, that is sulfite, paraben free, propylene glycol free & ethanolamine free.

A Clutter & Stress Free 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 20:37:00 +0000

I typically don't make a list of New Years resolutions. I do however, create goals and plans for what I need to do, to work towards achieving those milestones. True to the expression clean home, clean mind, I am always more efficient, productive, creative and truly calm when our home is at it's clearest, most organized space.

I think that living and working around clutter creates a negative emotional energy, which can lead to more stress and anxiety. Living in a clean organized environment, whether it be your living or working space, creates an empowering energy, fueling your creativity, passion and giving you the clear mind to truly think and bring things to fruition.

By nature, I am a perfectionist and need to live in an organized space. But alas, I am still human, and with time, certain areas of the house start to acquire randomness we don't need at all. Plus, with kids there are an absurd amount of toys, knickknacks, and thingymajigs they have.to.have or else their little worlds will completely.fall.apart ;) . So needless to say, clutter always happens.

I am going to spend the rest of this week organizing to kick off 2011 in a more organized stress free environment. Here are some steps and areas I usually try and tackle when de-cluttering:

One Room at a Time. I try and start with a small area first, and completely reorganize it. Being successful and finding happiness with completing one small area, usually makes me even more motivated to move on to bigger! Vs. trying to go for the largest areas first can seem overwhelming and demotivating.
Kids Rooms, Clothes & Toys. A few months ago, I did a lot of work cleaning out my son's wardrobe and giving away the things that no longer fit him. I found a lot of things which were still brand new with tags that he never wore. We are big on giving and charities, so it's nice to make it a family project and teach our kids the value of time as as well as giving. This time around it's my daughters clothes that I will focus the most on.
The Library. I love books and having a vast library. With time they loose their place and become less organized... and new books are acquired. It's nice to spend a little time reorganizing and 'finding' old books again.
THE Drawer. I have this massive 'I don't know where to put this so I'll just throw it in here' drawer. It's really awful, and I know that cleaning it out will only make room for me to start throwing more in later. For this, I really need to come up with a better solution!
Linen Closet. We have a lot of old washcloths and some linens that I should really clean out. I recently heard that animal shelters are always open to receiving donated 'rags'.
Old Clothes and Shoes. Every so often I go through our clothes and shoes. Things that we no longer wear at all ever, or pieces that I no longer find that flattering, get boxed and donated.
The Kitchen. I love to cook and admittedly, I make purchases of appliances that I will probably never actually ever use. It's time for me to take inventory and see what I realistically will never use and what I could and should starting using!
Re-Organize! Once I've cleared house, I think it's always fun to rearrange some spaces and see what areas can be different. Sometimes a tiny change can make a great and fun world of a difference ;)

I'd love to hear what some of your 2011 goals are! ;)

Slowing Down the Two Thousand Ten Farewell

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 21:47:00 +0000

As 2010 comes to a close, I'm really taking each moment to enjoy the little things that make each day important. So many times I find myself looking back, wishing I had slowed down to just take things in. I once heard someone say with little kids, "the days can be long, but the years are incredibly short". My sentiments exactly. I look back today at 2010 and can't believe how much my babies have changed and grown. And while I am incredibly proud of what remarkable little ones they are growing up to be, there is a part of me that wishes I could have slowed time down, or captured milestones, and sweet moments in a bottle.

I am very much looking forward to and excited of all the wonders, joy and beauty 2011 will come to offer. Still 2010 was a marvelous year and I want to bid it farewell with an equally memorable close. I feel incredibly lucky to have been able to share in so many of your lives in 2010, and am humbled by your support. Thank you for a beautiful 2010 and I wish you a happy and safe ringing in of the New Year.

With Love,
Iva

Basic Fresh Face Day Makeup Routine

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 21:27:00 +0000

Most days I wear the same easy to do, fresh face look. While I love makeup, playing with it and recreating looks, I'm not someone who has or wants to spend a lot of time putting on my makeup. I don't wear makeup just to run to the grocery store or pick up the dry cleaning, and while I don't feel self conscious without makeup, wearing it does add an extra sense of confidence. This routine works great for me also, because I can easily take the base from day to night, just by adding an eyeshadow color to my creases and black eyeliner. Although, for my lips I'm far less predictable ;)

Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15

Laura Mercier Shimmer Bloc Golden Mosaic

MAC Eyeshadow in Honesty

L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara

Get a Fit Tummy...With an Invisible Easy Move

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 20:47:00 +0000

I get a lot of emails requesting fitness tips and moves, with a common complaint being: but I don't have a lot of time. There are a lot of relatively easy and quick fitness moves that you can do in the comfort of your own home. With a little commitment and consistency, you will quickly see toned results.

A common 'problem' zone for women is the tummy. An incredibly easy move is the ab squeeze, which can be done while in bed, in the car, standing in the kitchen, in the shower, watching tv...{you get it, anywhere}.

{breath...squeeze...hold...exhale...repeat.}

1) Take a deep breath and relax all your abdominal muscles.
2) Then exhale and pull them in as hard as you can{Make sure you feel every muscle squeezing}.
3) Hold for several seconds.
4) Repeat. Try to do at least 3 sets of 10 squeezes a day.

Have Fun!

The Iconic Tweed Jacket

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 18:47:00 +0000

I spent the majority of Thursday running around rounding up the finishing touches on Christmas presents and organizing. It's been so cold lately, I've been pulling out pants that I haven't worn in awhile, and lately I find myself favoring the slight mixing of patterns as well brown and black combos. While my outfit wasn't exactly a typical one for me for errand runs, I did feel festive in it with the spirit of Christmas and holiday gatherings.

Last night, I finally had a moment to browse through the January 2011 {omg!} Marie Clarie, which I've been wanting to get to for over a week now! Quickly I saw the little spread on tweed jackets and I thought, perfect timing...I just wore one the other day!

I think a tweed jacket is a fantastic staple item to have that is always stylish. It's a great final piece to pull together any look, plus you can dress it up or down, but regardless you always look timeless and elegant {my favorite}.

Here are a few super cute ones {in varying price ranges}:

Eyelash Tweed Blazer, J. Crew $595
Nan Metallic Tweed Jacket, MARC by Marc Jacobs $498
Milly "Rivoli" Check Tweed Cropped Jacket $455
Coco Tweed Jacket, Free People $198
Embellished Millitary Inspired, White House| Black Market $158
Scholarly Pursuits Jacket, ModCloth $124.9
Tweed Peacoat, The Gap $69.99-$79.99
DKNY Jeans Jacket, Cropped Tweed Embellished$44.99 {on sale!}
Lurex Tweed Jacket with Floral Brooch $43.95 {on sale!}
Tweed Pleated Jacket, Forever 21 $32.80

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas!

My Favorite Salad ... It's Quick , Easy & Delicious {plus my kids love it!}

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 00:57:00 +0000

Hands down this salad is by far, my favorite. Ever since I was a little girl I've eaten it in ridiculous portions. In Yugoslavia {Serbia + Croatia} it's called Sopska Salata, and typically it's a side dish rather then a meal. However, I've been known to eat it as a meal, especially in warmer seasons, when it's a very refreshing light summer salad.

My kids are huge fans of it as well, and during potlucks I almost always make it. It's a huge hit with my friends, and to be completely honest for anyone who has limited time on their hands, this is incredibly easy and simple.

Unless baking, I never create meals by measuring ingredients. I like to just eyeball things and tweak depending on personal preference. In the case of this salad, I pretty evenly distribute the vegetables, but go heavier on the cheese and vinegar if I'm eating it alone. Sometimes I'll leave out the peppers, other times I'll add parsley. You can add or remove whatever you are in the mood for. It's super fun and incredibly tasty!

The key though to this salad being absolutely perfect is using the right Feta Cheese {which for sure are not all alike}. I feel very lucky to have a little tiny gem {hole in the wall} 'international market' just a few towns away from me. It carries what I like to call 'real' feta cheese, perfectly salty and moist lol. At the Rose Market, they call it French Feta and is $6 a pound. My husband is not a huge consumer of it, however between my kids and I, we go through about two pounds a week. I only buy a pound at a time though, since it's better to buy it in smaller amounts, to keep it from drying out.

Enjoy!

It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year!

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Sat, 25 Dec 2010 17:00:00 +0000

From my family to yours, I would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas. I hope yours is filled with love, joy, blessings and surprises with family and friends. May you enjoy one another in each moment and treasure your time together.

Merry Christmas!

A Few of My Favorite Hair Items

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Sat, 25 Dec 2010 00:57:00 +0000

One of the questions I get the most {blog and 'IRL'} is what hair products I use. In an attempt to not overload, here are just a few that I love and have used for years.

Biolage by Matrix Conditioning Balm , is a staple in my shower. I use it during the hair washes when I have more time to let it sit in my hair longer. I would ideally like to use it two times a month, but lately I seem to only get to it once a month. I really like the consistency of it and the smell is an added bonus.
I've been using Smooth n' Shine Instant Hair Polisher with Aloe & Protein, since I was probably about 13 and have been loyal to the product ever since. I don't have to use it that often in California, but when I'm in more humid places, like Florida, I find myself using it more. I think it's very important to warm it in your hands by rubbing them together quickly. It creates an even better consistency and I think it helps distribute more evenly.
There are a handful of Dr. Miracle hair products that I like, but my favorite by far, which I highly recommend, is Dr. Miracle's Stimulating Moisturizing Gro Oil. My recommendation comes with a warning as well: a very tiny tiny amount goes a very long way. I'm not exaggerating. This bottle has lasted me probably two years. You can alter the use of this product depending on your hair type, as well as needs. I've used it after blowouts to smooth my hair a bit with just a tenth of a pea size amount. Other times I've used it as a hot oil treatment. While Dr. Miracles is marketed for the African American woman, it has always worked fabulously for me and I love it.
Typically I don't brush my hair when it's wet, I just run my fingers through before blowing it out. However, there are times I need to either create parts or distribute a product into my roots more and so those times I use the Conair Wide Tooth Comb.
My all time favorite clips are the Scunci No-Slip Grip Mini Octopus Clips. I absolutely love the 'no-slip grip' inside, which offers amazing hold. I also love the rounded edges which fall perfectly aside any hair style. I use these regularly for creating French Twists, ballerina buns, side buns...pretty much anything.
I always carry a couple Conair Matte Minis Bobby Pins in my purse. They are really adorable, and don't let their small size fool you. They have an incredible hold and are perfect whether you want to hid them inside a bun, or create a side part and crisscross them over your side bangs.

Merry Christmas Eve ;)

Is That You...My Perfect Hair Colorist?

noreply@blogger.com (Iva Messy) — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 18:41:00 +0000

For the most part, I've colored my hair myself. There have been the few exceptions, mostly when I'm in Europe. Only three times have I been something else other then completely blonde, so doing my own solid shade really isn't that complicated.

There was the one time I went chocolate brown, which lasted all of a few weeks, and the time when I was 16 and had red streaks added, because a popular singer at the time, in Belgrade, looked fantastic with hers. Her eyes though were an amazing green and I think that complemented the look far more on her.

Then the horror story happened. A new popular salon had just opened and I had been itching to get the brown lowlights on blonde, that Jennie Garth was wearing during the super popular years of 90210. I went in with a picture of her color that I wanted, but left in tears. Instead of chunky brown lowlights {I know, it makes me cringe now that I wanted that lol} the colorist interwove extremely thin strands of a black shade. Long story short, I came out with what could have passed for completely salt and pepper hair. I could tell while she was doing it, that it wasn't what I had asked for. I have a very hard time speaking up...although I am getting better with time {age?}.

Years have gone by, and while I have never minded coloring my hair, and have for so many of my girlfriends, I've been wanting to get away from this solid shade of blonde. Plus, my hair is naturally light brown so as its growing out, its always very obvious of needing a touch up.

In October I had mustered up the courage to have my hair done by a professional, again. While I didn't completely think it was atrocious, it really wasn't what I was going for, and I think she was ridiculously overprice {although, that's just common for this area}. It was much darker then I feel comfortable in, blonde just suites my complexion more.

Yesterday I had an appointment with a new hair colorist, asking her to do just a partial highlight. She touched up with one shade on my natural color, and while I wasn't too sure of it originally, it's growing on me. It's really not the color that I mind right, its the technique of spacing and parting {I'm a perfectionist}.

So now that I'm back to being comfortable with having my hair done by someone else, I'm going to keep trying new colorists until I find the perfect one for me lol. I might look for someone in the city {San Francisco}, which is about a 30 minute drive for me. Which of course, if I found the perfect hair colorist, it would be worth the drive.