JennySue Makeup

Twice As Nice Cheeks :: Using Blush And Bronzer Together

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:15:00 +0000

Even in the winter months it's beneficial to use a light bronzer along with your blush to achieve the healthiest of looking cheeks. By using both products, you're able to create multidimensional color which gives pretty cheeks that almost mimics natural looking sun exposure! I'm going to show you how I used two blush and bronzer products I just ordered from Trish McEvoy to get my "twice as nice" cheek look.

{Two things to remember when applying these types of products:

1. Placement is key and

2. Keep it believable with sheer layers - no bronzer masks please!}

{Trish McEvoy's Liquid Face Color in Shade 1 ($32)

& Dual Resort Bronzer ($35)- this product was a sample size though.}

(Note- Before I start this, I usually I apply my bronzer 1st then my cheek color 2nd when it comes to powder formulas, but I'm going to switch that up this time since I'm using a liquid cheek color and shimmer bronzer.) The liquid face color goes on first and is actually a gel based cheek stain that looks like you're glowing from within- no powdery formula sitting on top of your skin here! It has great staying power, not all day, but longer than most powders I've worn.

{I ended up applying two coats of this product so it would show up better in photos!}

I apply it by literally drawing the shape I want my blush to be in to achieve a thinner and more precise bone structure for the bronzer to follow. I use a circular/oval motion (see actual drawing above) then stretch that oval out back towards towards my temples. I then blend with the actual applicator a little but finish off with my fingers for the most realistic blending.

Second comes my shimmery bronzer that I'm going to start off by blending all around my hairline and under my chin to give the appearance of a healthy skin tone that isn't just located in the center of my face (which ends up looking more makeup-y)!

{Go around entire perimeter of the face with your bronzer right into the hairline.}

{Pretend there's the letter C around each eye you're tracing with.}

To risk looking greasy make sure to pick a bronzer with very little shimmer, not too sparkly. I then use my bronzer right underneath my cheek color and pull it back towards my ears to create mini cheekbones. Finish with a light sweep on the very top of the cheek stain (not all over it, right on the tippy top) and around the sides of my outer eyes up to my brow bone.

{A healthy glow even in the dead of winter! No spray tans needed!}}

There's definitely an art to mastering bronzer + blush, but with a little bit of practice, it can create a beautiful impact. There are tons of blush bronzer duos out these days if you don't want to buy these two colors separately, like E.LF. Contouring Blush & Bronzer Powder or Neutrogena's Healthy Skin Blush and Bronzer. With color like this, I paired it with very neutral eyes and lips so that the cheeks had their moment to shine!

Do you use the "twice as nice" technique of blush + bronzer? What products help you achieve that healthy cheek glow?

**If you're a Facebook and Twitter fan (and who isn't??) then don't forget to "LIKE" JennySue Makeup on my Facebook fan page and follow me on Twitter to get even more makeup news, tips, and tricks I find interesting on a daily basis! Shoot me a message on both to so I can follow you back!**

Better Looking Lips Through Revlon's Colorburst Lip Butter

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:41:00 +0000

I'm going to play the "mom" card here and say that lately I have longed for "easy" makeup products that perform quickly because I haven't had much time to spend on complicated makeup looks due to my kids crazy schedules, school, bday parties, and such! Lame I know for a makeup artist to admit they want the easy way out, but it's the truth, and honesty is the best policy!! In prances Revlon's Colorburst Lip Butters ($6) to save the day!!

{Better looking lips with Revlon Lip Butters!}

These babies have been reviewed all over the blogosphere, and have been getting rave reviews!! So of course, I was feeling left out that I hadn't had the Lip Butter experience myself, and decided to pick one up at my local WalMart while buying bananas. I have fallen prey to following the beauty blogger crowd once again.

{My new Lip Butter shade in "creamsicle."}

This product isn't supposed to be a fussy highly pigmented lipstick (like the 2 MAC lip glosses I've worn here and here!). It is touted as a "buttery balm that produces shiny color while also hydrating your lips." And it does just that without looking too bare like some colored lip balms. I loved the shade I picked out because it's so neutral that it will go with any outfit I throw on in the morning without clashing, while still making my lips look "put together," no lip liner necessary.

{My hydrated feeling lips with just the right amount of natural looking color.}

I only bought one of these babies because honestly, money is tight and I'm the one to blame because I've recently made one too many makeup purchases since my birthday and the credit card is officially on fire - about to burst into flames! But if you want to see what a few of the other shades in this line look like on an actual person (no color swatches on arms here!), check out these posts from a couple of my trusted and favorite beauty bloggers:

Michelle from Lipstick Rules, who shows the "peach parfait" color which is the shade Emma Stone is wearing in Revlon's ad campaign, along with some others.
Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog, who sports the "cotton candy" shade along with some other current drugstore lip color products I might have to pick up at WalMart...darnit!!

Have you jumped on the Lip Butter bandwagon?? What do you think about them?

Birthdays Are A Blessing

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:35:00 +0000

Today is my birthday, and I have finally come to realize that they are a blessing. Yes each year older comes with challenges (hello crows feet creeping up, thinning hair, stiff grey hairs I have to pull out every other day, and forgetting where I placed my keys!), but now I'm able to see my birthday as more of a blessing because celebrating another year, means I'm being granted the opportunity to make this year better than the one before!!

Source: jordanferney.blogspot.com via Sarah on Pinterest

{This is the surprise birthday party decor of my dreams!
Lots of balloons and candles- hubby take note!}

Now there was a time when I thought birthdays were depressing. It started after I hit the big 22 and I thought that all of the "big" fun birthday moments were gone forever and I was going to have nothing to look forward to but getting old. By "big fun" moments, I mean like turning 16 (being able to drive), turning 18 (knowing you have the right to vote), and then the obvious 21 (you were finally old enough to legally drink champagne on your birthday). Luckily, with age has come a bit of wisdom, plus I have my precious children and wonderful husband to thank for allowing me to see the birthday glass half full and that I have so much to look forward to!

{Zodia sign - Aquarius - the water bearer.}

I love looking into zodiac signs and reading horoscopes. I'm an Aquarius and always enjoy reading different versions of my water bearer sign as well as reading about the Chinese calendar, which celebrates the year of the horse (1978). If you share my sign, here are some characteristics about us:

true people persons who value friendships
creative and imaginative
we are stubborn in our opinions
our greatest enemy is "boredom"
are ruled by our circulatory systems which means we are prone to circulatory problems such as varicose veins (this shocked me, bc I struggled with terrible varicose veins during 2 of my 3 pregnancies! Had no idea I had my sign to thank for that!
being exciting and extroverted
vivid and animated
the Horse is the life of the party at any he attends
entertains friends and strangers alike with humor and appeal

{Fellow fun Aquarian Rihanna!}

Thanks to celebuzz.com, I found this in depth list of fellow Hollywood Aquarians.
Some of the major players include Justin Timberlake, Oprah Winfrey, John Travolta,
Rihanna, and Jennifer Aniston just to name a few.

Not a bad group to be associated with huh??

And for this birthday, my hubby and the kids are allowing me to create my very own custom Nike kicks on their Nikeid website. This is going to be sooo much fun to create a personalized pair of tennis shoes...and yes, they might just end up saying JennySue Makeup on them...I'm sure they will make an appearance on my site once I receive them!!

Do you welcome each birthday or dread getting older?? What is your sign and do you follow its characteristics?

3 Beauty Pageant Makeup Tips Everyone Could Use

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:21:00 +0000

I had the pleasure of working with a beauty pageant contestant this weekend, Mrs. Oconee County-Melissa Roberts, for the upcoming Mrs. Georgia Pageant taking place this Sunday. The winner of each state then goes onto compete in the Mrs. America pageant which honors married women throughout the United Sates of America.

{Melissa and I after I finished her makeup at Yuva Medical Spa - her sponsor for the pageant.}

Each of the 51 contestants (from 50 states and DC), can range in age from the 20 to 50s, and earns the right to participate in the national event by winning her state competition. I thoroughly enjoyed working with this energetic mother of four and hearing how excited (not nervous!) she was to be entering this competition and being an inspiration to her kids.

I'm going to share with you a few of the makeup tips I used on Melissa that anyone could use! The look I did for her was a bit more toned down than I would do for an actual pageant where she would be on stage. She was going to be attending a mixer where she was meeting the other contestants, various media personalities, and pageant coordinators in a more casual setting, so we went a bit more low key. But still full on beauty!!

{She wanted to be a more glamorous version of her natural self but not too over the top!}

I'm going to show you a before and after pic of Melissa throughout these three tips so you can see the fun transformation from mom to Mrs. Mah-velous!!!

{BEFORE- she had great clear skin to work with!}

{AFTER - that great clear skin was enhanced with L'Oreal True Match foundation in shade N6!}

#1. Skin. Use a primer and a foundation one shade darker than your actual skin tone. I know everyone tells you to find your exact shade of foundation, but in this case, using one slightly darker gives her skin an even healthier appearance. Even though she had fab clear skin to begin with, the use of my Smashbox Photo Finish primer just enhanced it and made the application of the foundation go on with the greatest of ease!

#2. Eyes. When it comes to pageants, besides having nice white teeth (which she already had accomplished!), the eyes need to shine. Fake that thick lash line with my liner trick. I used a dark black brown pencil liner to line her upper lash line with, then added a matching dark brown shadow on top to blur the edges and make it smoother. Then, for added emphasis and ease, draw a thin line of black liquid liner on top of that brown liner. For liquid liner novices, this makes the application of liquid not as intimidating because you already have a "stencil" to go by and the addition of black makes the lash line pop. I used NYX Black Eye Liner which has a super skinny tip for easy application. And don't forget to add your champagne colored shimmer in the tear duct area for added sparkle!

{She's ready to win! Lipcolor is Maybelline's Super Stay 24 hr Color in So Pearly Pink.}

#3. Lashes. Add false lash clumps to fill in the gaps in your natural lash line. For an actual pageant I would probably apply two strips of false lashes for major oomph that would show up on stage, but for a close mixer, we went for more natural glamour by just using individual falsies. I apply these at the very end, after eye makeup and mascara has been applied. I use small drops of clear lash glue to add each individual clump in between the gaps of her natural lashes to create a fuller lash line. I used Ardell medium black clumps on the middle and outside of her lash line, and short black clumps on the inside of the eye. One coat of black waterproof mascara was applied just at the base of the lashes after these were completed.

I want to thank the great staff and Dr. Reddy of Yuva Medical Spa for giving me the opportunity to work with Melissa in their beautiful facility here in Athens, GA. Check out their Facebook page and like it to see what they have to offer! And congratulations to Melissa for already winning in my eyes for even having the courage and determination to enter this pageant- I wish you the best of luck with your events this weekend and most importantly have fun!!

Would you try these beauty pageant makeup tips for yourself??

Which Is More Important To You - Hair or Makeup??

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:26:00 +0000

I'm sure you all can probably guess my answer on about which is personally more important for me - Hair or Makeup. And yes, you're probably right to assume I would choose makeup because there are very few days I go without a stitch of the stuff. I can probably can count on one hand since leaving college how many times I've been completely bare faced!!

{My latest lilac lip color obsession- MAC's Cremesheen Glass in "narcissus."

Plus my brush set I got for Christmas from Sephora.}

{But, we can't forget about the hair, even with a hat on!}

But in all honesty, asking me to pick one or the other is like asking me to choose my favorite child, and that's just not cool to put me on the spot because I have three and that just wouldn't be fair -ha!! However, even if I end up putting my hair in a messy bun, quick pony tail, or throwing a cute hat on top of dirty hair, I'm thinking about a way to make the two gel together for the most put together look I can. Lately I've been obsessed with keeping my hair color looking like the day I got it done here so there's definitely no truth in saying I don't care about my hair!!

In my opinion, hair and makeup should be a cohesive look, because if one is a hot mess and there's been no attention paid to it, then it distracts from the other one that you took more time on or had done professionally. Prime example, Emma Stone, (who I actually mimicked hair color here because I loved her pulled together look!) recently looked like she chose to put time into one without time into the other at the People's Choice Awards- ah hem, professional makeup, and I hope to goodness no professional stylist did the hair.

{Fresh faced smokey eye with flawless skin + flat bed hair, literally.}

Please no nasty comments about my opinion on Emma, because I do truly think she has great style, this look just didn't cut it for me!!

So what's more important to you on a daily basis?? Hair or Makeup??

Book Review of "Makeup Makeovers In 5, 10, 15, and 20 Minutes" By Robert Jones

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:45:00 +0000

I can never get enough of pictorial makeup books. Books are honestly one of the most useful learning tools for me as a makeup artist, and they always provide me with some new information or technique on how to approach a face! So of course I was thrilled when I received the *newest book by renowned makeup artist and best selling author Robert Jones in the mail!

{New book, "Makeup Makeovers in 5, 10, 15, and 20 Minutes. Expert secrets for stunning transformations."}

This book will be hitting shelves in February and if you are one of those women that needs a makeup book that has literal step by step pictures on how to create many different makeup looks, you should probably look into this one. Of course time is one of our biggest obstacles as women when it comes to putting on our makeup, and this book gives you options of looks to create in specific amounts of time- from the most basic at 5 minutes to your most glamorous in 20 minutes!

{Just have this on your bathroom vanity for step by step instructions!}

Even a makeup artist like myself who has been working with faces for over 10 years can still always learn something new and exciting from another artist. This book gives great advice from everything to contouring (which is one of the more complicated techniques of makeup artistry in my opinion!) to what type of brushes to use to create the beloved smokey eye.

Here is one look I tried out in the book, called "Color my world" which showed a simple but trendy way to apply a bright pop of color to your eyes for fun in 15 minutes. The one trick that he implemented and pointed out, was to add your lighter of the two bright shades along the lower lash line and the darker on the upper lid so as not to drag your eyelid down and look tired. Who knew??!

{Ground your bright colors with a neutral shade in the crease to start off with.}

{Adding my darkest bright color, purple, from lash line to meet my neutral crease shade.}

{Using my lightest color, my teal green pencil, on the lower lash line plus mascara.}

{He even teaches you how to finish off your look with blush and lip color choices for a complete look!}

My overall opinion of this makeup book - I truly have enjoyed looking through it and getting fresh new ideas to implement in my everyday hectic schedule. I've bought many makeup help books that haven't been this in depth in terms of actual step by step pictures showing you every step of the way. And we all know when it comes to makeup, visuals help more than words!! And the looks Robert Jones creates are not too wild and crazy for most women to pull off everyday. I give this book a major two thumbs up!!

*This product was sent to me for consideration and review only. All opinions are honest and mine!*

Have you ever bought a pictorial makeup book to help teach you how to put on your own makeup, and if so, what's one of your favorites?

Funny Ladies Are Prettier

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:15:00 +0000

I'm completely comfortable in admitting that I have a "girl crush" on one of the latest leading lady comedians out there in Hollywood right now...Sofia Vergara!

{Sofia Vergara as the sexy (& funny) spokeswoman of Pepsi.

Makes me rethink my love of Coke if Pepsi would make me look this good!!}

"Modern Family" is one of mine and my husband's favorite comedy shows to watch together as a couple, and it doesn't hurt that he would probably also agree with this crush-worthy funny lady. Sofia Vergara is a riot in this sitcom and shows that pretty women (she's 39- go girl!!) can also be pretty funny! Who says female comedians have to conform to the baggy mom jeans, bad hair, and the no makeup look??

I find it even more attractive when a good looking lady doesn't take herself too seriously. I would consider the friends that I like to be around the most, are probably the ones with the best sense of humor, see the glass half-full most of the time, are quick witted, and might drop a not so lady-like word every now and then. There's nothing very pretty about a humorless chick who is all business-like all the time.

Here's a personal breakdown of some other of my current favorite Hollywood comedians who combine good looks with a good sense of humor!

{Rose Byrne}

She was the meanie backstabbing friend in the hit movie "Bridesmaids," but was really funny doing it! I honestly wouldn't look at this girl and think that she could be funny bc I found very few images of her smiling, but after seeing this movie, she's definitely got a funnybone! And this pic makes me want to wear blackberry stained lips right now!!

{Reese Witherspoon}

I have loved almost every single movie this hilarious woman has been in. She is a mom of two, southern gal like me!, and a super successful actress. Even though she's done some serious films, I like her ten times better in her comedies. Her cuteness just shines through!!

{Zooey Deschenal}

I love Zooey's new hit TV show "New Girl" and she has a super good singing voice. She also is a spokeswoman for the cosmetic line, Rimmel London, which supports the fact that you can be a good business woman while also being funny and pretty, all at the same time! Even though I feel like the cosmetics industry sometimes takes themselves too seriously (how many cosmetic ads can you see where a model is doing the serious fish face??), it's refreshing to see Rimmel taking on a funny lady like Zooey.

{Julia Roberts}

Julia has been around awhile, um, "Mystic Pizza", but she still is one of my favorite comedic actresses. "My Best Friend's Wedding" and "Pretty Woman" rank as two of my all time fave movies and she happens to be the star of both! With hilarious acting chops, ridiculously thick and shiny hair, a toothy smile, another Georgia gal (love these southern belles!), and being a mom of 3 on top of it all, she gets my vote for best all around!

Now back to Sofia, if she can nab a spot hanging in the same commercial with uber hottie David Beckham, you know that it's true, FUNNY LADIES ARE PRETTIER!!

Who are your fave Hollywood comedians right now??

Rain Rain Go Away Come Again Another Day

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 22:08:00 +0000

It has been raining here ALL weekend, and I'm honestly quite tired of it. Cold and dreary does not do good things for my psyche and for some reason I can't seem to get motivated to do anything but sit in our new very large and cushy recliner and watch endless amounts of Bravo.

Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com via Lisa on Pinterest

I was actually enjoying our weirdly mild January temperatures of 60's and sunny we experienced a few days ago. Oh, how quickly things can change though huh?? So in honor of this wet stuff and trying to look on the bright side, here are some things that get me through the idea of being stuck inside this weekend...

1. These braid ideas are the cutest hairdo's to sport in rainy weather.

2. This is my all time fave food combo to eat during the cold winter months.

3. Wearing these rubber boots would make me welcome wet weather.

4. These beauty products and tricks will help you beat the winter chill.

5. Tori Spelling is a jack of all trades and I love her more now than I did during the 90210 years.

How do you pass the time on rainy weekends when you are stuck inside?? Do you welcome the wet stuff or are you like me and wish for it to come again another day??

Good Girl vs Bad Girl Makeup :: Bad

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:59:00 +0000

If you missed the first installment of Good Girl vs Bad Girl makeup, check out my good girl side HERE. Now we are onto how I used my beauty tricks to turn my daytime good girl, into a nighttime bad gal!

{My bad girl stare. Not as intimidating as I'd of liked, but I tried!}

{I'm actually more comfortable smiling to be quite honest. Guess I'm good at heart;)}

So if you remember from the previous post, I was going to build upon the previous goody-two-shoes look, to create a more devil-ish look! So we will begin where we left off using the same products that were listed and adding a few more. Here are the additional makeup steps that you would add onto the previous look in order of how I would apply.

1. Eyes. Avon Big Colour Eye Pencil in "night glisten" and Ardell false lashes in "wispies" were the only two additional products needed to create the bad girl eye effect.

{Extend the L'oreal Infallible bronzed taupe shadow from lashline up to a bit higher than the crease area. Like I said, this stuff will last through whatever mischief you are up to-
it has mah-jor staying power!!"

{Line the whole eye with a soft chubby black pencil

and create a sideways V out of the corner of the eye.}

{Smudge the entire black lined area and V with a Qtip to blend and create smokey effect.}

{Take your original taupe shadow and brush it over the smudged black liner to add some shimmer to the overall eye, which smooths everything out.}

{My new fave strip falsies when I'm in a hurry- Ardell "wispies"-

I've already worn this same pair 3 times!}

{Press these into your already mascara'd and curled lashes for a more natural looking fit.}

2. Face & Lips. MAC Bronzer in "golden," Lancome Color Design lipstick in "Edgy," and Too Faced Mirror Mirror gloss "I know you want."

{Feels funny, looks funny, but shows where your natural cheekbones are so that you can apply your bronzer right underneath them for contouring purposes.}

{I applied this berry plum lipstick with my finger so as to create a more "stained" look- Bad girls aren't perfect, far from it...wink wink;)}

For the finishing touches on my bad girl alter ego, I applied my clear gloss right in the center of my bottom lip to create a pout-ier effect (think bad girl Megan Fox pout) and slicked my two day old hair into a sleek ponytail. Voila, the fiercest looking bad girl I can conjure up that would still be wearable on a dinner date with the hubby, sans kiddos of course!

So which makeup do you think should win the battle of GOOD vs BAD...

{GOOD GIRL}

{BAD GIRL}

Which look speaks to you??

Good Girl vs Bad Girl Makeup :: Good

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:57:00 +0000

I think every woman has a GOOD girl side and a BAD girl side - no matter how tame or wild, we all have alter egos that pop up every now and then. My good girl side shows up at parent teacher conferences and my bad girl side shows up on those few instances that the hubby and I get a babysitter and actually get to sit down for an adult meal at a restaurant that doesn't serve crayons and menus you can color on...WILD I KNOW!!! Ha!!!!

{Good girl look - complete with curls, so innocent huh??}

This is going to be a 2 part posting, with the GOOD GIRL beauty tricks going first. I will then show you how to build upon that good girl look that probably shows up during the day and how to transform her into that night time bad gal.

Products used for this low maintenance look along with the steps to creating it:

{A shimmery neutral shadow color used as crease color + eye liner, keeps it simple and sweet}

1. Eyes- MAC shadow in "blanc type," L'Oreal Infallible 24 hr eyeshadow in color "bronzed taupe" (shown above), and Maybelline's The Falsies mascara in black.

{Matte ivory color brushed on from lash to brows, all over the lid.}

{Shimmery neutral taupe color applied in the crease/along eye socket to create doe-like eyes!}

{Same crease color used as eyeliner along the upper and lower lashes.}

Be sure to use a tiny angled liner brush to get that color as close to the lash line as possible. And if you haven't invested in one of these L'Oreal 24 hr shadows yet, you should, it delivers true color all day! I even tested it without my lid primer (gasp! I don't go a day without this stuff) to see if it performed, and it did!! I will def be buying this product in other colors.

2. Face and lips. Revlon PhotoReady compact makeup in "shell," you can see my previous post review here, MAC blush in "fleur power," Too Faced "snow bunny" bronzer, Urban Decay 24/7 lip liner in "illegal," and L'Oreal Infallible lipcolor in "azalea."

{Apply your a peachy pink blush directly onto the apples of your cheeks.}

{Apply your highlighter product directly above your blush color,

as well as in the tear duct area of your eye to make your eyes shine!}

{Don't forget, for the finishing touch, SMILE!! Good girls always look happy and approachable.}

Stay tuned for the next installment of GOOD vs BAD to find out how to turn that angel face into a foxy devil...

Bringing Neon Back

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:24:00 +0000

NEON shades are not just an ancient trend of the 80's anymore. These bright look-at-me shades were seen all over New York fashion week for the spring 2012 collections as "highlighted" here and ways to wear it here, as well as filtering into the makeup category with Bobbi Brown introducing her Neons and Nudes collection. So of course I had to try my hand at this born again shade, by easily wearing it on my lips and in my accessories!

{MAC's Pro Longwear Lipglass in "full speed ahead" $18.50.

As bright as it looks here, it's even more shocking in person!}

{This stuff is sti-iii-cky, but has the highest gloss effect ever!}

The KEY to pulling this shade off right now, is to NOT overdo it. I wore my highlighter colored lipgloss alone, no harsh lip liner, and with minimal color on my eyes and cheeks so that the focus was just on my mouth. I finally got a hold of that Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy lip treatment ($25) I have read so much about, and it has not disappointed. Yes, it was pricey, but after a couple uses, I am sold on why it's gotten so much press. It contains ultra nourishing and age delaying ingredients that truly make my lips feel so hydrated, full, smooth, and overall yummy!! It creates a smooth base for me to wear my gloss on top of, but I'm afraid I'm going to get hooked on this expensive stuff and not be able to go back to my old $2 chapstick!! Yikes!!

{My two lip products that produce neon lights lips!}

{How can you not smile wearing lipcolor this bright??}

I think in addition to a shocking lip, picking out neon fashion accessories, like belts, shoes, and handbags, is also a very easy way to sport this of the moment shade if you aren't brave enough to wear neon clothing like these celebs below.

{These bold fashion statements were all courtesy of Michael Kors. Obviously, if you don't have

a rockin body like these ladies, probably best to leave the neon dresses on the hanger.}

So since I'm not in the market for a neon dress, I recently purchased this green hobo handbag by Bodhi that is the perfect bright addition to all of my dull winter outfits for now and will work on into spring. Yes, it's obnoxious, and yes it's green, but it's sooo much fun!! AND, I got it for a huge steal at my local TJMaxx (luv luv luv this retailer for affordable high end designer labels) as opposed to its original price tag of $248...try 40 bucks!! Holla!!!

{I applied 2 layers of Scotch Guard to this puppy so stains won't ruin the neon effect!}

So will you be "bringing neon back" this spring or do you think it should be left back in the 80's with Debbie Gibson?? (and if you have no idea who Debbie Gibson is, then you have officially made me feel old;)-ha!)

Skin Care Like An Expert

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 03:38:00 +0000

I have had 2 facials in my life- Gasp!! Yes, this makeup artist who is infatuated with faces, has only had 2 facials in her lifetime, but I am happy to say that I just added a 3rd one to the tally. I really should do this more often because it was one of the most relaxing treatments I've ever received!! And my dry winter ridden skin thanked me afterward.

{Me relaxing on the table getting a steam bath for my face- this pic turned out so cool!}

For all of my Athens GA followers, you MUST take a trip over to Urban Sanctuary for a facial treat! This spa has it all - from the most relaxing and serene decor, to an incredibly talented and friendly staff, treatments of all sorts for women AND men, and wonderful products from soaps, to makeup, to all sorts of eco friendly and organic skin care products imaginable.

I am going to share a few pictures via Instagram that I took during my experience there while I list what my esthetician extraordinaire, Kristen Harold, said are her top 5 skin care tips and descriptions for achieving your best skin. Thanks Kristen for educating and relaxing me at the same time.

{Enjoying a warm neck pillow and tea before my treatment began- not a bad start!}

Skin tip #1. Keep it Simple.

Don't feel like you have to use 7 products to achieve major skin benefits. If you buy 7 and get overwhelmed, then chances are you won't use them. So basically, don't get suckered into those high pressured sales pitches at the department store makeup counters where they try and sell you every product in their line!!

Skin tip #2. Cleanse Daily.

Cleansing is essential even if you don't wear makeup. There are all sorts of yucky things in the air and environment around you, which can land in your pores, which in turn makes them appear larger. That is why you should clean your face every single day!! And per Kristen, please don't use your body bar soap on your face, find a cleanser specifically for your skin type.

{The peaceful waiting area.}

Skin tip #3. Moisturize daily.

Your choice of moisturizers is even more important than the cleanser you use because it stays on the skin throughout the day. Make sure to get one appropriate for your skin type (yes even you oily girls need moisturizer, oil production isn't hydrating!!) and you may even need to change it when the seasons change. Make sure that daytime moisturizer has an SPF in it too!

She said that if you want to take your skin care routine to the next level, to incorporate these next two steps.

Skin tip #4. Exfoliate weekly.

Once again, find an exfoliator that is correct for your skin type whether it be a scrub or a chemical exfoliator. Use light pressure to apply a scrub with, that is all that is needed to let the product do its job.

I purchased one of their best selling scrubs at the spa by Sukiface. It is an exfoliate foaming cleanser w lemongrass and natural sugar and it smells so completely yummy when I'm using it, I seriously wouldn't mind eating it!! But it also makes the surface of my skin smooth as silk.

{Urban Sanctuary's beauty and skin care products available for every skin type and need imaginable!}

Skin tip #5. Mask weekly.

Masks can be purifying, hydrating, firming, soothing, etc, whatever your need is. When I went in for my facial, my need was for hydrating bc my skin gets so dry and parched feeling in the winter. She used a Naturopathica Seaweed mask on me that was to hydrate and soothe my skin, and she also added a bit of clay for a clarifying effect. Use a mask 1-3 times a week depending on what your skin can handle, but know that this extra step will help catapult your skin to clarity. This is the step that I honestly never do, but am going to work hard to implement at least once a week!

{This face that greeted me sums up how I felt after I left - happy and zen-like!}

Two friends with combined 25 years experience in the spa industry, Alan McArthur and Candice Courcy, started this spa with a vision of a beautiful place where people could spend an afternoon or even an hour to unwind and find total Sanctuary. Thanks to them for providing this mom of 3 with just that kind of relaxing experience!! I urge all of you, if you live in the Athens or even Atlanta area, make a trip into this spa, you won't regret it!

Do you ever treat yourself to facials or other spa treatments? Which ones are your favorite?

Friday Focus

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:36:00 +0000

This whole week I've been very focused on blogging, answering lots of emails, contacting current and future clients about makeup jobs, too much time on my Twitter account, and overall promoting my freelance business as a bold new me to ring in the New Year. All of this work and blog focus has led the rest of my household life to look like this in a nutshell...

{My husband thought it gross that I would admit to this, but I'm an honest mommy blogger!

I can't do it all.}

Contrary to how some bloggers make it look on their fancy fashion and beauty sites that their lives are all about walking down beautiful barren California streets in their un-scuffed Brian Atwoods or strolling their baby wearing Burberry around Central Park with the perfect red lip on - my life is not even close, and I'm happy to admit that. Everyday is not shiny pink lip glosses, perfect hair, and manicured nails - verrrry far from it. There are lots of dirty dishes, stacks of laundry at the foot of our bed, toys strewn everywhere ALL the time, and unwashed hair with too much dry shampoo in it on a daily basis. Oh, and lots of kids crying and whining at my feet!! Ha!!

I would love for my focus to look like this today...

{It's rare my kitchen table look this tidy and my fresh flowers are 1 day away from being laid to rest in the garbage can, so I wanted to capture this peaceful moment!}

...but alas, I must get my priorities in line today. I'm going to get my hands in the sink and away from the beauty products and keyboard. I have a few fun posts in the works and some cool products to review and let you know about, so keep checking back. Blogging is taking a backseat today- except for this post ;)

Until then...have you ever wondered what the origin behind Friday the 13th is all about? (There will be 3 Friday this 13ths this year of 2012 btw). Here's a little background on this superstitious day found in the Huffington post, if you were interested!

I plan on my Friday Focus being a lucky and productive one- what's your focus on today??

Products That Produce "Phat" Lashes

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:38:00 +0000

Yeh yeh, I used "Phat" instead of "Fat," it just had a bit more "oomph" to it right?? Ha!! And who doesn't want more "oomph" in their lashes! There are some products I've been using lately that when used together, have created the illusion of a much thicker lash line.

{All products used together to create my PHAT lashes!}

Now before I list all of my products used, I've posted enough about mascaras and lash enhancing products to know that, everything I use, might not work for the next girl. It's kind of like a perfume I think smells good on my best friend, might not smell that great once it gets on my wrists because we have different body chemistry! Same goes for lash products- we are all slightly different- thank goodness though! Being unique is good.

{*LashEm lash enhancing gel, Tweezerman lash curler, blinc lash primer, Lancome le Crayon Khol in black coffee, L'Oreal Voluminous original mascara}

That being said, here's the lowdown on the products that I am currently using

that are working it for me, in the order that I use them.

1. *LashEm lash enhancing gel. This is one of those products that I didn't realize how much I needed until I quit using it. Shame on me. I didn't really think it had done much for my lashes, but once I quit, my lashes went back to small and weak. Now 2 weeks later of starting it back, applying every single night, my lashes are feeling and looking healthier before any other products have been applied! Their site says it works on brows too, which I haven't tried, but would be a huge bonus for those with sad brow hair!

2. Lancome le Khol eyeliner and Tweezerman classic lash curler. I use a dark brown liner to line the inner waterline of my upper and lower lash lines to create an illusion of a darker lash line before anything. Black would be too obvious and unnatural which is why I like using a brown shade to look more like natural hairs. Lash curlers are a MUST. I don't go a day without using one.

{Inner waterline lining then smudging it out into the lashes just slightly}

{I curl lashes at the base, then squeeze the center, then the tips.}

3. blinc Lash Primer allows you to have a larger base to work with before you apply your mascara. This white-ish formula didn't impress me after the first few uses. But the more I use it, the more I like it. Like any mascara, the formula must build up on the brush before it performs at its max. The key with lash primers, is to make sure to let it sit for about 30 seconds before applying your mascara, but to not let it sit too long to where it gets too dry and hard. It's a tricky product- but mastering it makes a noticeable difference.

{With lash primers, I focus mainly on the base of the lashes and the tips.}

{I blot my mascara wand with a kleenex to get the clumps off and expose the bristles for better application.}

4. L'Oreal Voluminous mascara in black is one of my all time favorites for drugstore mascara. The waterproof version is even better for keeping the curl to stay put.

{My finished PHAT lashes!}

If you want to see another easy trick for how I get the MOST from my mascara, click right here!

*This symbol means product was sent to me for consideration, all views and opinions are my own.*

Have you used any of these products, and if so, what did you think of them? If you've got any PHAT lash product suggestions, let me know!!

"Celebrate Love" - Photo & Makeup Session

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:40:00 +0000

I'm excited to be teaming up this February 4th, 2012 with super talented photographer (not to leave out super friend!), Abbey Lindsey of Dylan Blue Photography, to promote our "Celebrate Love" photo session day. If you are currently in love, engaged to be married, or have been married for years but haven't had current photographs of the two of you captured since your wedding, then you don't want to miss out on this opportunity! Details below.

If you are in the Athens or Atlanta GA area and want to have your makeup done by me, JennySue Makeup!, plus have a casual and relaxed photo session with "your Valentine," then this is your chance.

To book your appointment today, contact Abbey at dylanbluephotography@gmail.com. Location to be announced once appointment is made. We hope to see you then!!!

The Little Things Make Me Happy

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:41:00 +0000

There are two quotes about HAPPINESS that I try to remember and remind myself of everyday. Because sometimes even the best, brightest, or most expensive lipstick just isn't going to cut it on a bad day...

{My son enjoying his sandwich a little more, due to the happy face we cut in it!}

"Most people are about as happy as they make their minds up to be."

Abraham Lincoln

"Taking joy in living is a woman's best cosmetic."

Rosalind Russell

With the new year upon us, I've got a lot of excitement built up as to what BIG things it could bring if I continue to work hard. But I also want to enjoy every waking minute of what I have already accomplished, including the LITTLE things and moments. My husband and I are always saying how we shouldn't wish our lives or our kids lives away when we contemplate the future or say things like, "Man, we wish our kids were big enough to make their own dinner", or "Man we wish our daughter was already potty trained so we didn't have to buy diapers anymore (we've been buying them every year since our first was born in 2006!). But the truth is, when those moments are gone, we're going to wish we had those times back and realize how happy those things made us!!

So here are a couple of "little things" that have made me happy lately as seen through Instagram. (I am seriously obsessed with this app - who's with me on this one??)

{Trying to be a Maxx-inista while shopping with Vivian.

She thought playing peek-a-boo with the scarves I was searching for would be more fun!}

{Ordered a glass of wine at a local restaurant and this was how high they filled it up.

I definitely got my monies worth, which made me happy!}

{My oldest son thoroughly enjoying a Krispy Kreme donut, with sprinkles of course.

Happiness deep fried!}

Here are a couple of links around the beauty and fashion blogosphere that I'm "happy" to share:

1. 4 ways to look good in the a.m. (you will get hooked on Kandee's site - she's a mom and MUA with such a delightful attitude!!)

2. If you're a fashion or beauty blogger, this will make you laugh out loud from the lady who keeps it real over at Lipstick Rules.

3. This family is so cute, it makes you want to smile!

4. Turning beauty "ohNo!" moments into "ohyes!" ones.

5. When a drugstore brand gets a makeup product right it makes our wallets happy.

What makes you truly HAPPY?? Is it getting that promotion at work you worked so hard for, or is it finally attempting that recipe that turned out so delicious your family thinks you're the next Paula Deen?? Big or small, I want to hear it all!

JennySue Makeup Product Review :: Stila Lip Glaze Set Part 2 of 2

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 11:24:00 +0000

Here are the remaining four colors shown in photos from my Stila Lip Glaze set as promised. If you missed what the first four glossies look like, you can check those out here from my first post. And one thing I forgot to point out about this set in the original post is that 4 of the colors are limited edition and 4 are best sellers. Best sellers by name are Kitten, Apricot, Grapefruit, and Starfruit (3 of these listed shown on first post, FYI.) just in case you were wondering.

Without further ado, here they are...

{"Believe" - raspberry with light gold shimmer, darkest shade of the set}

{"Kaleidescope" - shimmery light peach color}

{"Kitten"- peachy gold in color.

This is actually my favorite in person, although, unfortunately doesn't seem to impress me as much in this photograph.}

{"Dreamy"- cream colored mauve w no shimmer}

{This is my happy "hydrated" face because...}

...I had just gotten a relaxing lemongrass facial from a local spa, Urban Sanctuary, here in town, and my dry dehydrated face was thanking me for getting it! I am going to do a post on my experience there later on in the week with some skin tips I got while enjoying my treatment.

After seeing both posts on this lip glaze set, which one was your favorite??

This Is What Saturday Night Looks Like...

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 03:37:00 +0000

Saturday nights used to be a BIG deal when I was in college and newly married with no kids. It was the night I got all dressed up, let my hair down, and went out to new restaurants and clubs, and didn't get home until well after midnight- because it would be lame to go home before then! Now that I'm married (over 10 years now) and 3 kids later, this is what my usual Saturday night looks like...

{Magazines, Martinis, and Manicures. The perfect Saturday night!}

And you know what, I LOVE it this way!!! Of course, every now and then this mama needs one night away to peel myself from the couch and know that I'm still able to keep my eyes open past 10pm just to prove to myself I can still do it. But I'm perfectly happy with my low key weekend evenings of staying in and catching up on my magazine reading and redoing my nails that have taken a beating from the week before of dishes, laundry, and bathing children-constantly! One of my newest beauty purchases is shown above, my Deborah Lippmann polish in color "between the sheets" ($16) which is a rock-n-roll purple-ish fuschia cream color- obsessed with it already-the shape of the bottle is so fancy too!!

Lifestyles change as we age and have kids, and we must change with it, embrace it, and enjoy every minute of it!!

What do your Saturday nights look like??

JennySue Makeup Product Review :: Stila Lip Glaze Set- Part 1 of 2

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 15:22:00 +0000

I actually got the Stila Lip Glaze Set ($25) I was begging for for Christmas (thanks Mom!) and of course want to share with you what all 8 colors included in the set look like on an actual person. No color swatches on my hand or wrist here!! (Why do some beauty bloggers do that?? Showing a shadow or lipstick on your forearm doesn't do me a lot of good in terms of what it might look like on my eye beds or mouth!)

{All 8 shades- 4 top sellers and 4 limited edition ones.}

I am splitting this photo review up into two parts starting with the first 4 colors shown from left to right here (they're more of the pink based sheer ones.)

{ "Apricot" the most color-less sheer lip color of the bunch}

{"Grapefruit"- this fruity light pink is the perfect description}

{"Fantasy" is a bit more of a punch pink than Grapefruit and has a slight shimmer added}

{"Starfruit" is a bit darker than Fantasy and feels like just enough color}

I will post the remaining 4 later once my lips get over the constant applying and reapplying feel:-) These glazes smell wonderful but don't have much staying power, which is okay, bc I like the way these feel when applied! Check back for the last 4 colors- my absolute FAVORITE shade is to come...hint, it matches my favorite eye shadow pan from Stila...

Have you tried Stila's lip glazes?? Do you like? If so, which color is your fave??

DiorShow Iconic Mascara Is Disappointing

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 03:35:00 +0000

I don't ever like to bad mouth companie's products because I know they are probably the culmination of someone's hard work and ideas. However, as a beauty blogger of cosmetic products, and a woman/mother whose hard earned dollar must be spent wisely, I feel I have to be honest about much hyped products and as to whether they actually deserve the hype. In walks another Dior mascara...

{My sad and disappointed face over my $$ DiorShow Iconic mascara}

DiorShow gets lots of love in all of the fashion and beauty mags and over the internet. I've bought Blackout and the original DiorShow, and were just kinda ho-hum about them both. But I'm a sucker for marketing and Sephora employees who "urge" me to try another one, the DiorShow Iconic in waterproof. I mean, its got the word iconic in it which basically means "representative of art"- so why wouldn't I want my lashes to look like art??! Unfortunately for my 30 bucks with tax, it did not perform any better than my favorite drugstore mascara (ah hem, Cover Girl Lash Blast Volume).

{My BEFORE any mascara picture}

{My AFTER DiorShow Iconic picture- 2 layers applied. After 7 hours of wear as well}

{Close up of the wand in case you were wondering}

My overall take and rating of this expensive mascara. I would give it a 6.5 out of 10.

For $28 bucks a tube, I expect great things. This gave me mediocre things.
The only saving grace about it, is that due to its waterproof nature, it kept my lashes curled and did not smudge during the day.
Other than that, it actually did slightly clump (which they taught doesn't happen due to nature of the brush design) and
Did not really lengthen or fatten my lashes, just made them blacker.

So what do you think about the much hyped Dior mascaras?? Am I crazy and do my lashes just dis-like Dior- or do you find drugstore mascara trumps Dior?? Sound off lash ladies!!

Age Appropriate Makeup For Young Girls

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 11:43:00 +0000

I remember as a young child, whenever a dance recital or Halloween would come around, I would get so excited because I knew those special occasions allowed me the opportunity to:
1. get dressed up and
2. wear makeup...two of my favorite things!!

{My Vivian interested in my makeup haul from Christmas!}

Most little girls I know are obsessed with the idea of getting dolled up, however there is the age old question that moms like me have, "What is the appropriate amount of makeup a young girl should be allowed to wear??" Now that I have a daughter of my own and will no doubt have to make a decision about what age and what products are going to be acceptable for her to wear when and where. However I do have a formula for what I use on young girls when I am hired for special events.

{Two beautiful junior bridesmaids (and sisters) I worked with who were happy with the
end result as well as their mother! Mission accomplished. Hair by Mint Salon.}

The picture above shows 2 young ladies (ages 11 and 14) I worked with who were junior bridesmaids in their older sisters wedding and wanted their makeup applied. Of course their mother and sister were adamant that they wanted "age appropriate" makeup and didn't want them looking older than they should be. So here is what I did to enhance their natural beauty without smothering them in makeup:

1. Skin. Light wash of overall foundation mixed with a liquid luminizer to thin out the foundation applied with a small sponge. (* this is a step I would completely skip for this age for daily basis application, bc most girls don't need foundation at this age, just concealer to spot treat. I used it for this special occasion purpose for evening out skin tone because they were being photographed.) Concealer was definitely used to conceal any blemishes that needed color correcting.

2. Eyes. Keeping these colors light and neutral is key. Your focus is to bring out the natural eye color and highlight the inner tear duct with a champagne colored shadow. I used my Urban Decay Naked palette on both girls, brown mascara only, and I used a deep brown shadow along the 14 year old's lash line, nothing on the 11 year old. Clear mascara was used to keep brows in place.

3. Cheeks and Lips. Blush was a peachy pink color (my fave Sonia Kashuk color in "melon") and lips had a lip stain plus light lip gloss on top.

Of course this amount of makeup was for a special occasion, a wedding, so I wouldn't suggest this many steps for everyday because their beauty just doesn't need it. I would think lip gloss and maybe some light colored shadow on the lids would be all that was necessary on a daily basis.

So I'm opening the floor up for discussion for all of the mothers of young girls out there or even you ladies who remember when you started wearing makeup. At what age did you allow your daughter to start wearing makeup and what products did you start off with (example- blush, gloss, etc?).

Here's To A Beautiful 2012

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 03:06:00 +0000

"The future belongs to the people who believe in the beauty of their dreams"

Eleanor Roosevelt

{Pondering about what 2012 could hold!
Lashes by Ardell in "wispies"- Nars blush in "Desire"- Stila lip glaze in "Fantasy" }

I want to thank all of my lovely and loyal followers for keeping up with JennySue Makeup this past year of 2011. I have loved all of the comments and feedback from everyone, because those comments are what keep me going and energized to keep posting! I am thrilled to start a brand new calendar year and can't wait to see how 2012 can top 2011. My love for all things beauty related (from brand new products to makeup trends) will no doubt continue into this new year and I look forward to sharing whatever those things might be with all of you!

I'm raising my invisible glass and making a toast to all of us following our dreams this year and making them happen! Happy New Years everybody!!

Best Skin Care Picks For 2012

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 03:16:00 +0000

I switch up my skin care products about as often as I switch up my favorite lipstick. I just love trying new stuff and feel like my skin gets bored when I use the same old product time after time (it's never actually spoken to me, but I speak for the way it feels;-)). Quite a few of you have asked me to let you know exactly what products and methods I use to take care of my skin, so I figured I would let you in on what I'm currently loving!!

{ I'm pretty old fashioned in that I use a washcloth

along with my cleanser to get my face squeaky clean!}

The photo above is me bare faced with only chapstick applied (ok, maybe my eyebrows are done, but that's it!!) after my morning regime. Which is kinda scary to share with you what JennySue Makeup reeallly looks like without the paint and spackle, but I'm here to be honest with my understanding followers;-) First of all, I do love the way a washcloth feels when removing my makeup. Even though I've read conflicting reports that you should only use your fingertips/hands so as not to put too much wear and tear on the skin, I still use one. All I know is I feel a deeper clean with a cloth, and I'll just promise to use it gently- ha!

{My current everyday & night products used.}

Before I get into what I use, I must admit that I owe a lot of my good skin gratitude to good genes. My mother has very pretty skin, always has, and currently has less wrinkles than I do- and she is almost 30 years older than me! No fair, but I'm happy for her...kinda. "Love you mom" if you're reading:-)

But to keep up what God and mom gave me, here's what I'm using for maintenance...

Daytime: I rotate between 3 moisturizers every 3 days.

1. L'Oreal Revitalift Clinical Repair Laser Treatment Repair moisturizer with SPF 20. This daytime moisturizer has retinol as an active ingredient which is known to be one of the best ways to fight the signs of aging. And it has SPF which is critical during the daytime and when you've got retinol on your skin, it's a must so your skin doesn't burn.

2. Jergens Natural Glow Healthy Complexion moisturizer. This is a very gradual self tanner for the face that also doubles as a daily moisturizer. I love using this stuff especially during the winter months to give my pale pasty skin a subtle healthy glow which is why I switch out using it every 3 days to keep up the color. And it doesn't have an obnoxious smell which I like!

{When applying ALL moisturizers, don't forget about your neck!! It ages quicker than you face, so you must pay attention to it when it comes to SPF and hydration!}

3. Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30. This product has a soy complex that is good for evening skin tone, protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and has light diffusing particles that give your skin a radiant glow on its own.

4. Softlips Cherry lip protectant with SPF 20. I know it's like I'm beating a dead horse, but SPF should even be applied on your lips to protect them. The sun is evil when it comes to aging all parts of our face!

Nighttime:

1. Biore Blemish Fighting Ice Cleanser. I find I really only need to wash my face at night, because it's not really getting dirty while I sleep over night on my clean pillow case! I've been using this for over a month now and love love the way my skin feels after I've used it. Granted, I don't break out a lot, but I've only had one blemish issue since using this. It has an awesome tingling sensation after using it, which makes me feel super clean!

2. Lancome Absolue Premium Replenishing Eye Cream. I use an eye cream every night to try to scare away the crows feet. I like keeping this one in my refrigerator because it's a great cold treat for that delicate eye skin!

3. Avon Reversalist Night Renewal Cream. I have fairly dry skin, so I need lots of good hydration for night time. This one does the trick and I usually feel like my skin looks slightly reborn the next morning after using this.

4. St. Ives Invigorating Apricot Scrub. I like to use this exfoliator about 3 times a week after my cleanser to slough off the dead skin. I've used almost all of the St. Ives products, and really like their scrubs and find them to be very gentle.

Whew, when I write all of this down, it seems like a lot of a maintenance huh??!! But I feel like your face is kind of like taking care of an expensive car (ie, premium gasoline, regular oil changes, wash and waxing it!). The better you treat it, the better it will perform.

What products are a must for your skin care regime??

Christmas In Chicago Finale

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 04:38:00 +0000

I know I have spread these posts out about my fabulous trip to Chicago, but I just can't get enough of looking back through all of the photos of the fun things we did and saw! So here are some of the places I shopped, along with favorite photos for you to see what a wonderful and vibrant city this is!

{The iconic Chicago theater sign}

So I promise I will get back to postings about makeup and such (the bread and butter of this site!) after I share these last few pics of our trip with you. This city is a must visit if you are looking for fun, excitement, nice people, and the cleanest big city I've ever come across!! Oh, and if it looks like you see me in the same coat, hat, and scarf in almost every picture, it's because I packed light (gasp!!) and decided to just wear the same outwear everyday. Looking back, I wish I had switched it up and packed another coat, but what can you do. I was being practical;-)

{Our first stop, Gino's East for legendary deep dish pizza. It did not disappoint.}

{This was hands down the BEST pizza I've ever eaten. I was miserable afterwards because of how rich and enormous our pie was, but it was worth the misery;-)}

{Under the "bean" at Millenium Park. Not sure of the significance of this thing, but it was cool.}

{My best Marilyn Monroe pose}

{Our boutique style hotel, The James Hotel, which was an awesome location to anything and everything we could have wanted to see and do! These old school suitcases greeted us in the lobby.}

{We got upgraded to a suite-yippee!! Loved the minimalistic interior, because it was a break from my chaotic and cluttered home back in Georgia!}

{The magnifying mirror in our bathroom was a huge bonus. I could have spent hours doing my makeup and plucking my brows in that thing...and I did;-)}

{Our first night to dinner at Sushi Samba. A lighter fare was much needed after eat deep dish pizza!

I've gotten lots of compliments on my bright blue pants, which you can find similar ones here. Mine were from TJMaxx though- lots cheaper!!}

{This was at the top of my husband's list of must places to visit- Wrigley Field.}

{Looking up towards the 95th floor of the John Hancock building where we were headed for a cocktail. I must admit, I was honestly nervous.}

{Once we got to the top, the view of the city was ah-mazing to say the least. You could see for miles, and miles, and miles...}

{Acting goofy at the ChristKindl Market in Chicago. It was a German outdoor Christmas market where you can shop for unique gifts and drink German beer at the same time!!}

{Met up with our friends Colleen and Andy, who are local and recently engaged!!, at the market.

They were our ultimate tour guides and filled us in on everything Chicago related. You can tell by the jackets that they knew more about how to dress for extreme cold as compared to mine and Scott's wimpy jackets!!}

{A little bit of history we had to walk in and see.

The famous Drake Hotel constructed in 1920}

{The entrance walking up to the lobby in the Drake with some fabulous Christmas decor!}

Alas, all good things had to come to an end and we had to head back home. We had such a wonderful time and will definitely be going back soon I hope! But as much as I love getting away, I also love getting back home to my children.

{Right before we took off on our flight to Chicago, I found a lonely pacifier stuck in the bottom of the purse I was carrying, which reminded me of my little ones back home! I was sad and we hadn't even left Atlanta yet!!}

Maybe next time I visit Chicago, I will make a point to visit in warmer weather so that I won't get stuck wearing the same outerwear in all of my photos to remember my trip by;-)

The Reason For The Season

noreply@blogger.com (JennySue) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 05:02:00 +0000

I admit to being guilty of getting waaay too caught up in all of the Christmas hullaballoo - such as buying enough presents (probably more than is necessary), decorating my house with as many lights as possible, indulging in too many treats and spirits, and designing the perfect family photo card to send off to friends and family. But luckily my all time favorite Christmas decoration is a daily remainder of the real reason for this season...

{ THE NATIVITY SCENE }

Don't get me wrong, I love all of the magic of the big man in red and seeing how excited my kids get when they talk about their list and what they hope to see under the tree tomorrow morning. However, my hope is that every year we celebrate Christmas, that my children and myself included, will understand and remember the true meaning of why we are lucky enough to celebrate this month. The birth of the baby Jesus is the main part of Christmas and should always be our central focus- not how many gifts are wrapped under the tree.

I find it so fitting that this event is so special because it's about the birth of a baby. And after having 3 of my own, there is truly nothing more amazing and inspiring than a child being born. Tonight my family enjoyed a huge meal together (not the usual peanut butter and jelly!!) and watched old videos of our kids when they were younger which reminded me to appreciate how quickly babies grow up and to enjoy each and every moment, no matter how small, because time flies by!!! It's about to be another new year, and I am truly grateful for all of my blessings that 2011 brought. But for now, I'm going to enjoy tomorrow morning, Christmas morning, and thank God for my own children and his son Jesus, who is the real reason we get to celebrate this season.

A Very Merry Christmas To Everyone!!!!