Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Easy Everyday Makeup

Hi all!!!!  Here's my first makeup tutorial.  It's my version of the everyday uber casual makeup look.  I hope you enjoy.  I apologize ahead of time....it's super HOT in Chicago & even with the AC blazing, I am sweating.  Also, my allergies have been CRAZY, so sorry for the sniffles.  Also....my lighting kinda stinks.   Obviously as time progresses, my videos will get better.  

This specific look I typically apply in under 15 minutes.  It's longer on here as I am showing you each step in detail.  Products & brushes are listed below.

Hope you enjoy.....soon to come a more detailed look.  : )
Products:
Benefit You Rebel Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 15
Noted option: Natura Bisse The Cure Sheer Cream with SPF 20
Benefit Ooh La La
Mary Kay Black Gel Eyeliner
Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in Black
Le Metier De Beaute Eye Brow Pencil in Fawn
Trish McEvoy Medium Matte Bronzer
Stila Convertible Color Blush in Lillium
Max Factor Whipped Cream Moisturizing Makeup in 347 Shimmering Natural
Plump My Pucker by The Balm in Tutti My Frutti

Tools:
Bobbi Brown Ultra Fine Eye Liner Brush
Trish McEvoy Eye Lash Curler
Trish McEvoy Brow Brush/Comb
Trish McEvoy Bronzer Brush

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Handbag & Accessory Love from Le Chateau


So I recently discovered Le Chateau website.  I love the selection of handbags & accessories...no to mention amazing price range!!!!  Check out LeChateau.com

here is my wish list of items...clearly with all the color I am loving summer!!!!





Love these..so different





Pregnancy Health

I am not a huge fan of working out with heavy weights or breaking a major sweat.  I do love a girly workout that brings out my femininity, yet also delivers results.  My favorite workout for a year plus now, is delivered through Mary Helen Bowers with Ballet Beautiful.  She is most famous for training Natalie Portman for Black Swan.  I love her workout because it is attainable, portable, & can be done on your own time frame.  Ballet Beautiful gives you that beautiful, lean, dancer body.  Don't let her workout by appearance fool you, it looks really easy but is actually very difficult & for the 1st week, left me extremely achy.  I do prefer to perform the workout in a leotard & ballet shoes, although it can be done in just about any workout attire.  

As my pregnant belly has grown & my balance has disintegrated, I have had a hard time completing her workouts, as effectively as I can.  I have found an amazing workout that delivers similar results, specifically for us pregnant ladies.  She is actually enjoyable to hear & not as annoying as some in workout videos.  Suzanne Bowen's Slim & Toned Prenatal Barre Workout along with long walks has taken up my time these days.  Her workout is great, enjoyable & offers great results.  I do long for Mary Helen to come up with Prenatal Ballet Beautiful but am loving Suzanne for now.  



Mary Helen Bowers of Ballet Beautiful

Monday, July 8, 2013

General Baby Must Have's

Here are some General Baby Must Have's

BabyGanics Nasal Saline Spray is THE only nasal spray I could find that was safe for newborns up.  I doubt I'll honestly use this while Penelope is so fresh & new but I wanted to air on the side of caution.

The only place I was able to find this at is giggle:
http://www.giggle.com/bath-potty/skincare/BabyGanics-Lets-Boogie-Nasal-Saline-Spray/BBG1283,default,pd.html?start=43&cgid=bath-potty-skincare
 We luckily received a lot of hand me downs from family including baby bath towels & wash cloths.  I did want to get a couple extra & loved these sturdy organic Better Basics from Giggle.  I just loved this ivory & orange duck set.  I felt that it would work if our 2nd baby should happen to be a boy, plus I've been very attracted to ducks throughout the whole pregnancy.  This set is a hooded towel & duck wash mit.  I also got an additional matching hooded towel & set of 3 washcloths.

For this set or to see the other cute options available visit: http://www.giggle.com/gifts-keepsakes/baby-shower-gifts/giggle-Better-Basics-Duck-Mitt-Hooded-Towel-Set-Organic-Cotton/G-I7754,default,pd.html?start=5&cgid=bath-potty-bath
For bathing, I went back & forth between this Eurobath & the Puj Infant Sink Tub.  This Eurobath is huge, yet fits on our kitchen counter & works great from newborn to 2 years.  I settled on this option because after about a year, the kid can take a bath in the kitchen sink or bath tub.  I loved that this tub supports an infant's head & body, til they can sit up on their own.  I really want to eventually get the bath stand for this bathtub.  It is so Euro-Chic, a tad more expensive than I'd like but practical.

The Primo Eurobath can be found at: http://www.giggle.com/bath-potty/bath/Eurobath-Tub/23247,default,pd.html?start=9&cgid=bath-potty-bath

The Bath Stand: http://www.wayfair.com/Primo-Folding-Bath-Stand-345-L3456-K~PRB1045.html?refid=GX21919337100-PRB1045&device=c&gclid=COaDlu6TobgCFRRk7Aod9REAQw
This bib & burp cloth set is made by Dwell Studio.  Dwell Studio has other bib & burp cloth sets available.  This set definitely said, "You need me in your life!"  I thought this would make a great bib & burp cloth for the diaper bag.  Around the house we plan to use hand me downs (also very cute & may end up in the diaper bag) & Gerber Cloth Diapers.
We also received a really cute Baby Dior bib, which will go into the diaper bag.
This & other Dwell Studio bib/burp cloth sets can be found at: http://www.giggle.com/Percale-Bibs/Burp-Cloth-Set---Meadow/0004099048,default,pd.html
 Here is my Bottle Brush.  I chose the Beaba Sorbet colored bottle brush because it has great reviews compared to others, not to mention it's SUPER CUTE!!  This does come in another color selection.  Get yours at: http://www.diapers.com/p/beaba-bottle-brush-with-case-sorbet-green-orange-143964

 The Beaba Bottle Drying Rack was my top choice because again, amazing reviews!!  I wasn't fond of the whole grass thing cause all I could think about was how difficult it must be to clean & fester mold & mildew.
You can get one or check it out at: http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/3360872/?catalogId=54&srccode=cii_18492716&cpncode=30-217879884-2&bnrid=3580301&cm_ven=MSNShopping&cm_cat=Shopping&cm_pla=Home+page&cm_ite=Datafeed
This is my Diaper Bag, diaper changing pad.  This is by Apple&Bee.  There are other really cute options found at Apple&Bee.com & giggle.com
I have been planning on using a white Jansport backpack for our diaper bag.  I like that its multifunctional, sturdy, and can be used by both Jay & I, without having to have 2 bags or constantly switch the bag's contents in & out.  Maybe we will splurge on a fancy diaper bag at some point, but for now this is what I want.  : )  As Jansports do not come with changing pads, I found this one & loved the colors, giraffes, & perk....it's organic.  I definitely hope to get the matching bottle holder.  SO CUTE!!!
Get yours at: http://www.appleandbee.com/baby-and-kids/nappy-mat/nappy-mat-giraffe

or: http://www.giggle.com/on-the-go-gear/diaper-bags-mini-changers/Giraffe-Changing-Pad-Organic-Cotton/BCM-G,default,pd.html?start=5&cgid=giggle&q=changing%20pad
Get a Jansport at Tillys.com: http://www.tillys.com/tillys/variants.aspx?prod=166922150&ctlg=020_Girls&cid=1094&source=1&size=


Here are some images of the Honest Diapers.  These are biodegradable, cute, & top rated compared to others.  I have a weird aversion to the thought of using tons of diapers for years among all the babies in the world & those diapers never disappear.  GROSS!

Honest Diaper bundle is actually a tad bit more expensive versus regular diapers but I think you make up for that cost with the free wipes offered with the bundle.  You can also get a trial sent to you.
https://www.honest.com/accept_invitation/209555

 Safety 1st has an awesome option for a grooming kit.  I loved the easy to grip handles & quality of the items.  I'm not fond of the nasal sucker, as I researched & found the NoseFrida Snot Sucker is best.  This kit is great though because it comes with your medicine dispenser, standard thermometer, nail clippers, comb, cradle cap comb, brush, & nail files.  I don't plan on using the bag that it comes with but love the set.

http://www.giggle.com/bath-potty/skincare/Safety-1st-Deluxe-Healthcare-and-Grooming-Kit/IH025,default,pd.html?start=4&cgid=bath-potty-bath

NoseFrida Snot Sucker: http://www.diapers.com/p/nosefrida-the-snotsucker-nasal-aspirator-70269

 My bottles of choice are LifeFactory.  I received both the 4 oz & 9 oz bottles.  These are all glass with rubber protectant sleeves & silicone nipples.  They are easy to grip, reusable as snack containers, sippy cups, or jars.  http://www.lifefactory.com/reusability
My mom, who has been running her very own home day care (for over 18 years) swore by these, so much so, she gifted them.  I actually just cleaned these, disinfected, & stored them yesterday.  I am so excited for these bottles.  I love how easy they are to handle, the colors, and multi-functionality.  I've heard that babies respond very well to the nipples & when these are thrown on the ground, never ever break.  LOVE!!!!

http://www.lifefactory.com/product/glass-baby-bottle-with-silicone-sleeve-4-oz-120ml-raspberry





 The Oral Care Rabbit cleans your baby's mouth and removes plaque & bacteria.  I thought this was a definite must have because I'd like to promote good brushing habits right away. I can't help but think while a baby sucks down milk or formula all day, that must create a film on those precious little pink gums.  I believe while gently using the oral care rabbit, you can remove that gunky build up.   Teeth are so important and good healthy gums are too.  I plan on using this within Penelope's first month, if not immediately.


http://www.giggle.com/bath-potty/skincare/Oral-Care-Rabbit/750102461,default,pd.html?start=55&cgid=bath-potty-skincare
 How can anyone forget fun?!  As soon as I found out we were expecting, my very first purchase was Sophie the Giraffe.  While we initially intended on naming Penelope, Sophie/Sophia, I thought she was the cutest, most practical baby toy.  Not to mention she comes from Paris.  So I recently went ahead & purchased the Sophie Bath Toy.

http://sophiegiraffeusa.com/index.html

http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/sophie-bath-buddy/?pkey=e%7Csophie%2Bbath%2Bbuddy%7C1%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C24%7C%7C1&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH%7C%7CNoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-NoMerchRules-_-
Another great place for baby items is Apple Park.  My mom got some adorable baby toys for Penelope & I absolutely love them!!!  http://www.applepark.com
Hope you enjoyed my insights.  I swear I'm not all about organic but I like to be able to do some organic as it is most beneficial.  You do what you can, right?!  Please feel free to leave a comment & let me know your Baby Must Have's!!!

Baby Skin Care Must Have's

As my career is focused around good skincare, I want the absolute best for my lil peanut girl.  I have done quite a bit of research, as to different brands, ingredients, consumer reviews, etc.    I have carefully chosen my Must Have's for her.  
Please feel free to leave a comment on what your baby must have's are!!!


 Boudreaux's Butt Paste is my chosen cooli cream.  My sister in-law highly recommended it as well as my mom.  I received this original formula & an all natural formula, I will try both & see which is preferred.
Can be purchased at diapers.com: http://www.diapers.com/p/boudreauxs-butt-paste-4-oz-tube-5142
Mustela Dermo-Cleansing Cleanser was chosen because it is soap free & easily removed from newborn's skin specifically during those early sponge bath moments, as we must avoid getting the delicate umbilical cord wet for proper healing.  I also really like that this cleanser is soothing with coconut oil which also preserves the hydrolopidic film, aka skin's natural moisture barrier.  After we use this cleanser up, I plan to use Honest's Shampoo & Body Wash.  This is an organic cleanser that can & will be used for the whole family containing jojoba & quinoa, plus amino acids.

Mustela Dermo-Cleansing can be purchased at giggle: http://www.giggle.com/bath-potty/skincare/Mustela-Dermo-Cleansing/20730,default,pd.html?start=16&cgid=bath-potty-skincare

Honest Shampoo & Body Wash can be purchased at Honest: https://www.honest.com/accept_invitation/209555
Mustela Facial Cleansing Cloths, I thought would be great for the diaper bag.  They are gentle and soothing.  I may find that these are more frivolous than necessary,  but couldn't resist.  : )

http://www.giggle.com/bath-potty/skincare/Mustela-Facial-Cleansing-Cloths/18302,default,pd.html?start=11&cgid=bath-potty-skincare
I truly do hope & pray everyday that our Lil Penelope has hair when she's born.  I had a lot of hair & so did Jay.  Don't get me wrong, bald babies are super cute & along with that I pray for her health, which is of the utmost importance.  I just want my lil one's born with hair, it's just a goofy little thing I have.  If she is not, then I will be equally as happy.  : )
I did purchase this Mustela Foam Shampoo for Newborns specifically because it offers a mild exfoliation that helps soften & rinse away cradle cap flakes.  I don't mind cradle cap on other babies, I just again have a weird little quirk where I'd rather eliminate it as much as possible on my kids.  : )  It is tear free, as well.

Mustela Foam Shampoo for Newborns can be purchased from giggle: http://www.giggle.com/bath-potty/skincare/Mustela-Foam-Shampoo-for-Newborns/1062PF,default,pd.html?start=14&cgid=bath-potty-skincare
I chose Honest Bubble Bath for later down the line.  This is ultra-pure & soothing.  It will not dry, irritate, or cause tears.  It has a light refreshing tangerine scent which gently calms & relaxes.  I plan on using this for myself, as well.  Honest products can be purchased at Honest.com : https://www.honest.com/accept_invitation/209555
Along with skincare comes laundry detergent.  Clothing touches skin so this was equally as important to me.  I have actually always had issues with laundry detergents, softeners, and drier sheets, as they have caused me to itch & break out in hives.  Now I know Dreft is a hugely popular choice for baby wash but due to all the crazy chemicals & strong smell, I decided not to go with it.  Honest laundry detergent is amazing!!!!  It cleans incredibly, has no scent, offers a neutral pH, & is hypo-allergenic.

I actually partake in Honest's bundle programs.  I do not work a full time job outside of the home and do not have a car at this moment, so being that our Honest bundles ship to our home, the products are better for us, our future baby, better for the earth, & so on, it was a no-brainer.  We are signed up for 2 of their bundles.  The Diapers & Wipes bundle which is postponed til I need it & the Essentials Bundle.  The Essentials Bundle is about $35/ month.  You can chose between every 4, 6, or 8 weeks.  I tend to need my bundle shipped every 4 or 6 weeks.  You do not get charged til your next bundle ships.  I love that everything within the bundle plan is adjustable by time frame, items needed, and can be put on hold whenever necessary. You can also add more than the 5 products that you choose from for $35.
So everything in our home is turning into Honest products.  You can purchase these items individually, if you like.
Purchase or sign up for your Honest Bundle: https://www.honest.com/accept_invitation/209555
With our Honest Diaper & wipe program, we pay for the diapers & receive FREE wipes!!  These wipes are cloth, thicker, stronger, more absorbent, & softer medical grade cloth.  They are soothing & biodegradable!!!
Purchase Honest Wipes: https://www.honest.com/accept_invitation/209555

Mustela PhysiObebe is a no-rinse cleansing fluid.  This is amazing for the face & diaper area.  Softens skin with allantoin & aloe vera.  I've read countless times that when a baby is a super fresh newborn, you should refrain from using wipes.  I thought this would be an excellent product for the first weeks & use with soft gentle wash rags or cotton, to clean her little cooli.  I realize this may be a bit frivolous of a product but I really wanted it.  : )
Mustela PhysiObebe can be purchased at giggle: http://www.giggle.com/bath-potty/skincare/Mustela-PhysiObebe/18160,default,pd.html?start=12&cgid=bath-potty-skincare
Now, I have always heard amazing things about California Baby from both my sister in-laws.  This travel caddy I received as a gift from one of those heavenly women.  : )  I was thrilled to get this because I did see this at Target & thought what a great way to try the different products.  The sizes are amazing for travel & I love that this set comes with everything baby needs.  The products on the bottom row are also reusable & refillable....LOVE!!!!
California Baby products are gluten, soy, oat, & dairy free.  Free from various nuts except coconut derivatives.  Offer no synthetic fragrances, tear free, & organic.  They are also made in a solar powered facility...FUN! : )
Travel caddy can be purchased within some local Target Stores or: http://www.californiababy.com/eco-traveler.html



California Baby Calendula Cream, I did purchase in the family size.  I figured, why not?!  I plan to use it on Penelope's face & body.  It can be used for the diaper area.  Calendula is soothing & this cream offers deep hydration, absorbs well, and works very well for that dreaded cradle cap! : )  Might I add, it smells heavenly with added natural aromatherapy blend that includes French Lavender.  

Calendula Cream can be purchased in 2 sizes at: http://www.californiababy.com/calendula-cream-4oz.html