Life Planner Haul

Hey guys I just ordered my first Erin Condren Life Planner and I am BEYOND excited to get it. I am anxiously awaiting it's arrival! Best part is that it's in transit and should arrive tomorrow.

I will be posting an unboxing/review when I finally get it, so stay tuned.

Any ways, I went on a mini shopping spree in anticipation for my planner. First off before we get into the loot, let me tell you that I love writing stuff down. If it's not written down, it gets missed. My husband is forever making fun of me telling me that everything is digital now and that planners are old technology. The  nerve, right?! ha ha ha. I looked at him and said, no sweetie you are wrong. Planners are a way to keep yourself organized and if you are a crafty girl like myself, it can be a form of scrapbooking and honestly it's very therapeutic to me. If I don't write things down I completely forget. I have the worse memory. I own a few, yes more than one, but they are inexpensive ones you can buy from Walmart and Target. I have been eyeballing the Erin Condren planners for SO long and decided, hell I owe it to myself to FINALLY buy one, so I did!!! (Can you tell I'm just a little excited?!) ;)

Ok onto the loot!

In no particular order, I made several trips to various Dollar Tree stores, Target and Walmart. Seen Pictured above, are all of the washi tapes I got in those various locations. They are so cute, I can't wait to rip into them (literally)! I got the cute clothes pins from the dollar section at Target. the double sided tape is a generic dollar store brand, I wanted to give it a try to see if I like it. The headband actually came in one of the birchbox subscriptions that I no longer subscribe to. I saw a few girls using headbands for their planner and thought that would be a great idea. (Helps hold the planner together)

Next I bought these super cute stickers and labels. These all came from the Dollar Tree. I could not pass up cute stickers. I can't wait to use these.

Lastly I have this super cute box which I have already filled up, when everything is in it. I bought the box at Walmart, from their craft section. The note pads, sticky notes and page flags all came from Target, their dollar section.

I am so excited to use all of my new products in conjunction to stuff I already own in my new life planner.

Ok guys that's it for me today I hope you enjoyed my life planner haul, if you want to join in the fun and get your own click here. Let me know if you agree with me about planners or if you think like my hubs?! Do you own an Erin Condren yourself and if so, how do you like it? Let me know.

Thanks again guys!

Much Love,

Too Faced Shadow Insurance Glitter Glue Review

Shadow Insurance Glitter Glue Glitter Bonding Eye Shadow Primer 

Price:$20.00 
Size: 0.35 oz
What the company claims it does:
Wandering glitters and shimmers are for amateurs. This featherweight primer is specially formulated to keep glitters, shimmers and powders in place. The hard-working formula also evens skin tone and softens fine lines. Shadows, powders and glitters glide on effortlessly, stay in place and stay intensified for 24+ hours.
You can purchase this primer at Ulta, Sephora or directly from the Too Faced website.

Product Review:
To start of with my review I must say that the packaging is adorable, totally cute. I love that it comes in a squeeze tube so you can control the amount that comes out, with ease. The formula is skin toned and has a sticky creamy texture.
The product does an amazing job at securing the glitter to the eyelids or even plain eye shadows. The glitter glue works well with chunky or finely milled glitters. I recommend patting this to your eyelids and not applying it in swiping motions. This product sets fast so work quickly. Once the glitter is set it's not going to budge. I didn't test it for 24+ hours but I did test it for about 9 hours and it worked like a charm each and every time. 
As for the price this tube is a little pricey, but in my opinion completely worth it. First of all because it comes in the tube and not a jar, it will not dry up, it stays sanitary because there are no wands or applicators. 
How often do you really use glitter? It's meant to be used for glitter and you avoid all that crazy fallout but it's a perfect eye shadow primer in general. 
Here are a few pictures to show you how well they work with regular eye shadows in addition to glitters.

Two different angels of my swatches. On the left side you will get to see shadows by themselves and on the right, you get to see them with the glitter glue. As you can tell by the swatches, the glitter glue intensifies the pigmentation of these shadows.

Eye Shadows: (Left to right/Top to bottom)
Wet n Wild-Brass/Laiton
Jesse's Girl Mineralized Baked Powder-Esmeralda
Milani-Bella Champagne
Pacifica-Treasure
Too Faced Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar-Pink Sugar

I also have a sample of one of the days I used this glitter glue, pictured above (first pic).

Overall The Too Faced Shadow Insurance Glitter Glue gets a solid A rating from this gal.
It is a great addition to the primers I already own and I look forward to using it many many times moving forward.

I can't believe it's been a full month that I launched my blog, it was official as of yesterday! It has been a work in progress, and it's been super fun. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your continued support and don't forget to follow me for notices of future posts.

Much Love,

 

Ipsy-June 2015

Happy one year Ipsy subscription anniversary to me!

I've had my subscription for exactly one year. I find it so fun to get a welcomed monthly gift in the mail ;)

So this month the theme is swim into beauty, perfect for the summer.

So let's start with the bag itself.

I actually really like it. It's black and it says ipsy all over it with an neon bright orange zipper. I love the material, it reminds me of that wet suit material. Perfect to haul to the beach or in my case the pool, river or lake.

Next up is the NYC Liquid eyeliner. (which I currently own so this is a backup)

What it claims to do:

• This long lasting, rich and creamy formula dries fast and stays put. This tapered natural brush gives you the control you need to create a precise and dramatic line. The liquid goes on smoothly without skipping, smudging, or pulling, plus it lasts all day. Create the perfect line, every time!

I really appreciate getting this in black because sometimes ipsy sends me colors I would never really use.  It dries matte and is pretty nice. The one part I will make you aware of is that if you tend to have watery eye like me it can run. Overall though, I do agree to what it claims to do especially if you don't have those watery eyes.

Next let's talk about the Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer.

What it claimes to do:

• Create a perfect canvas for foundation application with this silky, lightweight blend of vitamins A & E, grape seed extract and green tea. Worn alone or under foundation, this best-selling, oil-free primer helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores for flawless skin with a velvety-smooth finish. 

I've owned this primer in the past and like it. I'm not the biggest fan of silicone type primers, but that's the only reason it's just ok for me. I do like it and will get use out of this. 

Next are these sheet masks from Bio Republic.

What it claims to do:

• Life is full of surprises and our skin is no exception! Each BioRepublic sheet mask offers a targeted 15-minute solution guaranteed to help you navigate even your most treacherous skin dilemmas. Packing over half a bottle of potent serum in every mask and loaded with active botanicals, these express facial treatments deliver the vital hydration and nutrients your skin needs to maintain its natural glow. What’s more, all BioRepublic SkinCare products are 100% cruelty free and use materials that are either biodegradable or recyclable, so your conscience will feel as relieved as your complexion.

I've only been able to try one and that is the green tea detox one and I loved it. Honestly though I am a huge sheet mask fan in general. I fully plan on using the other two in the near future.

Next is the treStique

What it claims to do:

• This amazing 12 hour eye shadow has customizable color that you can build from a subtle wash to intense vibrancy. It’s also super blendable with a crease free, smooth finish.

So this is actually a very cute mini shadow crayon. I got mine in Kona Coffee, I tested it out a couple of times. First off I love the packaging and the color payoff, unfortunately the claim that it last 12 hours is incorrect. I only wore mine for 4 hours, with primer and it creased. Total bummer, but hey...it's ok. The second time I used it was in my waterline, that was an even shorter wear time, I don't think it even lasted a full hour. So this is just an ok product for me.

Lastly is the Jcats Liptition Hydration lip stain.

What is claims to do:

• Highly pigmented, hydrating, semi-matte lip stain. A delightfully creamy and lightweight stain for any occasion. Silky, smooth and packed with Vitamin E and plants extract, this stain is your go-to glam tool for sexy. Liptitude will last 24/7 and give you some serious ATTITUDE.

This is my second product from Jcats, let me start off by telling you that the color I got is in Bead. The color is pretty but I would recommend an anti feathering-lipliner because this does bleed. Once the initial color has worn off from eating and stuff, it does leave a pretty stain. This product does last and doesn't have an offensive smell. It's a little minty. I didn't wear it for 24 hours like it claims to last but it did last a full 9 hour work day. This is how it looks on my lips.

Alrighty guys, that is my June 2015 Ipsy bag for ya!

I was pretty pleased overall. I'd give it a 4 out of 5, so not bad at all. 

Click here to join.

Thanks for reading my blog, enjoy your weekend!

Much Love,

Inner peace and tranquility

Hey guys, so today I wanted to make a little different kind of post. Something more personal and positive. I struggle with anxiety and have my entire life. Most people don't understand anxiety, unless they also suffer from it as well. This isn't a post about anxiety though, it's about Inner peace and tranquility. I want to share a few things that have helped me in my life, and things that I have to remind myself of. As seen pictured above, I 100% agree that NOTHING can bring you peace but yourself! Being at peace is such a wonderful feeling. We have to remember like the picture below says....

Seriously guys, being alive and well is something most of us take for granted. I say make today count. If you can make today count, then you will see how happy that will make you. Inner peace comes with people and things that bring you happiness.We need to realize and be grateful for what we have. In this day in age, it's so easy to complain and to pay attention to all of the negative aspects of our lives, whether it be how busy we are at work/school, how much housework we need to get done, or unfinished projects. It's all sorts of things in our daily lives that bring us stress. Instead I urge you to try and think of the good things in life, not the bad. A little thing that will make such a huge difference, trust me. I am forever stressing about something. I am teaching myself, to stop worrying about things out of my control, and to focus on the things I can control and the great things in my life. I just recently started going hiking with a few family members. Man I forgot how much I love nature and the outdoors in general. I live in a beautiful state full of wonderful trails and I hardly ever get out. Here are just a couple of pictures of the last two trails I've done.
The first pic was taken up Millcreek Canyon, SLC UT and the second picture is Bell Canyon in Sandy, UT

I am going to make it a point to get out as much as possible this summer. My hopes are for at least 3x a month..maybe more. I share this with you, because this brings me so much inner peace and tranquility. Find what makes you tick, or what allows you to release stress. Find something you enjoy doing. Lately after a VERY difficult start to this new year, I have been able to start relaxing and start truly enjoying myself. I am focusing on this blog that I love so much, on my boys that are my world, on all of those hobbies that make me so happy. I urge you to let go of all that is holding you back and just try! It really boils down to the little things in life, because those are the things that really matter. Inner peace and tranquility go hand in hand. Find one and you will have them both.

I will leave you with this last quote and thought.

I love you all and thanks for spending a couple minutes out of your day with me and remember to try to unlock YOUR best!

Much Love,

Clarisonic Mia 2 Review

I received this as a gift for Mothers day this year. I have been using it for a little over a month. I wanted to really test it out, so that I can give you a true and thorough review.
The cost for the Clarisonic Mia 2 is $149 + tax. It can be purchased at Sephora, Ulta or directly from the Clarisonic website. My husband purchased mine at Ulta.

(Every thing pictured above is what I received with mine).

My Mia 2 is in Passion Fruit (hot pink). It included an extra sensitive brush head, a protective travel case, a full size Refreshing Gel Cleanser and of course the pLink charger. As an added bonus for buying the Mia 2, Ulta gave a gift with purchase. The added bonus included this cute Clarisonic bag seen pictured above (I use mine to keep my charger and travel case in). I also got a sample of the deep pore daily cleanser and a sample of the deep pore detoxifying clay mask. I have tried them all and really enjoy them.   

Let's start with what the Clarisonic Mia 2 is suppose to do:

• It promises to transform your skin for a smoother, more radiant complexion in just 60 seconds a day.
• Features of the Mia 2 offers two speed options. Speed 1 is Low for delicate (compromised or delicate skin) and speed 2 universal (daily cleaning for normal skin, 26% more cleaning power then speed 1.
•  Cleanses 6x better than hands alone.
• Leaves skin prepared for better absorption of serums, moisturizers and creams.
• Gentle enough to use 2x a day.
• Uses sonicare technology and moves in a micro massaging motion to remove impurities.

Directions:

Gently move the brush using small circular motions. Use on the forehead for 20 seconds (it will pulse when its time to move to the next section). Nose/Chin for another 20 seconds and lastly both cheeks 10 seconds each. BTW a very important note, you have to let it charge for a full 24 hours before using it the first time and about 18 hours for a full charge after the first charge. 

*You are suppose to replace the brush head every 3 months and the cost is $29 each or two for $45.*

My experience with the Clarisonic so far: 

I was so excited to get the Mia 2. I have been wanting one for the longest time. To me your skin care is the most important part of your daily routine. I have problematic areas amongst other concerns. I have combination skin, but it is sensitive and acne prone. I have fine lines and at times, dull skin. For all of those reasons and more I really wanted to give this a go. 

The first time I used it, I was impressed. The brush was soft but I still felt that it was firm enough to really clean my skin. Right away I felt the smoothness to my skin. After I used it and applied my serum and moisturizers, I went in to do my makeup. Oh my goodness, my makeup applied beautifully. It made such a huge difference, it felt smoother and it looked better. 

I used it again that same night before bed. I always use a makeup wipe before going in with the Clarisonic. I neglected to mention above that I used the Clarisonic deep pore daily cleanser sample. It claims to refine pores and remove impurities. I noticed right away that after cleaning my face with my Clarisonic, my products like my night time serum and creams went on smoother, my face felt really clean. I called my husband over to touch my face as I couldn't believe that in just one day I saw such a difference in my skin.

After a few weeks I saw a huge improvement in my fine lines, which was is so awesome! It's because the face products were going deeper into my skin, do to the deep cleaning my Clarisonic provides. I seriously could not believe my eyes. My family even noticed at a family gathering, how cool is that?! This has been my favorite improvement yet. 

While great things were happening, one thing wasn't. My acne wasn't going away, as a matter of fact I was getting a few more breakouts throughout the days. I decided to change up my routine just a bit and instead of using my Clarisonic deep pore cleanser I went back to my Neutrogena deep clean cream cleanser, which is my favorite cleanser of all time. So here is the deal and what I found out; Your skin goes threw a purging period, basically it takes out all of the impurities in your skin causing your skin to appear worse before it gets better. Don't give up on it guys, this will only last about two weeks or so. I do still get the occasional breakout,  but my skin is a ton better overall. I have also been switching my cleansers too. I alternate between the Clarisonic products and my Neutrogena. At first I thought the Clarisonic sample they gave me was causing me to breakout, but no it was just the Clarisonic doing it's job.

Conclusion:

I am going to continue to use the Clarisonic because I love it! My fine lines have diminished a lot which is the main reason I will continue to use it. In addition it completely makes my skin feel like it's getting pampered by fully exfoliating and deep cleaning my skin. I know this is not a cheap product by any means, but guys it's worth every dollar. I rate this product a perfect score, an A+, it's a must have, trust me! Looking younger and feeling more confident in my opinion is a no brainer! ;)

Ok loves, that's it. Let me know if you have any questions. I know this is a super long review but I like to cover all of the bases. Thank you for your continued support, you have NO idea how much it means to me!

Much Love, 

Lorac Alter Ego Heart Breaker Palette

This is an Ulta exclusive palette. for $24.00

This is part of the Lorac 2015 Summer Collection.

This palette offers a mixture of matte and shimmer shadows.

It offers a total of 10 eyes shadows that include warm and cool tones.  I love that it also offers those fun pop of colors. The color payoff of these shadows are great! The formula is smooth, they blend well and it has very little to no fall out at all. I love the thin sleek hot pink packaging and the nice big mirror. It clicks shut and is a great size to travel with.

This is a great little palette to add to my collection. I would recommend it to anyone.

Here are a few swatches on my hands:

Final Grade for this product is an A 

Well guys there you have it, this was a great find. I'm extremely happy with my purchase. You can create some pretty fun looks.

Ok lovelies, thanks again for your continued support.

Much Love,

Morphe Brushes Review Set 690- 6 Piece Delux Contour Set and the M460 - 1 1/2" FLAT CONTOUR

Hey lovelies this is my first set of Morphe Brushes! Man I have so much to say about these, but first let me give you the basics.  You can get this set on their website it is normally $45.99 but if you go on there now, they have a sale for $22.99, I don't know how long the sale will last (SORRY). I didn't purchase these brushes from their website, I actually purchased my set off of Hautelook.

These Brushes come in a little black pouch

The Brushes included are:

Angled Buffer

Round Buffer

Pointed Contour Buffer

Mini Angled Buffer

Mini Round Buffer

Mini Pointed Contour

 

The M460 Flat Contour Brush

You can buy this brush on their website for $13.99

Ok so now let's talk about the quality of these brushes. Oh my goodness these are awesome, seriously amazing. There isn't a single one I don't like. The quality is amazing especially considering the price! These are all synthetic brushes that are super soft to the touch and blend your makeup product so beautifully! I have owned them for a little over a month and have washed them and haven't noticed them shed one bit.  My favorites so far are the Flat Contour Brush (hopefully you saw that on my May Monthly Favorites post). The Round Contour Brush, the Mini Round Buffer and the Mini Pointed Contour. Those have been my favorites only because I have been using them the most, but I have tried and loved all of them. You can use these brushes with Cream, liquid or powder products. I've used them on all types and they work wonders. I was surprised that these felt like the same quality as my Sigma brushes. I plan on getting more in the near future. 

Ok dahhlings thank you so much for reading about my review, I truly enjoy blogging and hopefully you can tell! Please let me know if you have anything you would like me to review or any suggestions on what you would like me to post about. 

Have a fantastic day!

Much Love,

Half Moon Nails Tutorial/Pictorial

Hey lovelies today I have a super simple but cool nail art tutorial/pictorial for you guys! I hope that you like my "nail art hack".

This is what I am starting with. These are not my natural nails, these are clear acrylic nails with a gel top coat. I started getting my nails done about a month ago because my natural nails were so thin and brittle and kept breaking. I love these because I like them plain and I can always spice them up if I want to.

You will need a nail polish, mine is the Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in the color 130 Breezy Blue such a pretty pastel. You will also need Reinforcement stickers.

Place the stickers at the bottom of your nails like this, and apply the first coat of nail polish.

Then proceed to apply the second coat of polish. Before the polish is completely dry carefully pull of the stickers off.

This is the cool nail design you get, called half moon nails. You can also do this same technique for regular french tip nails. No need to buy those expensive guides when you can get a pack of Reinforcements with 544 stickers for a dollar. (that's how many came in mine).

Add your preferred top coat, and there you have it, beautiful Half Moon Nails!
(the top coat I used is from Julie G called JetSet, seen pictured above).

Super simple, super cute nails! The possibilities are endless, have fun and get creative.
Have a wonderful week, enjoy this new month of June and the warm weather and lastly, please subscribe for more fun and entertaining post.

Much Love,