On the counter {Product Reviews}

I've picked up a few beauty and hair products lately that I feel I need to tell you guys about.

Mainly because they are all rocking my world.

Most of these I've found on my own during random trips to Ulta and Target.

But I must admit that I have been obsessed with watching make up and beauty YouTube videos lately.

Such great resources and make up tips.

I really love MrKongsMom, HerLateNightCravings and MsGoldgirl

First up...face

Boots Botanics All Bright Cleansing Foam Wash

First of all, you may notice a few teeth marks on this bottle.  Floyd wanted to wash his whiskers.

Moving on, this face wash is very light, smells great and really foams up.  Which convinces me it is really working.  Who knows if that's true or not.  I really like that this wash is light and doesn't feel too heavy on my face.  I don't know how much it is really 'brightening' my face but I can notice a slight difference. 

to go along with the face wash I picked up Boots Age Defense Protecting Day and Night Cream. 

Now that I'm 30, I figured it was time I should start using age defense treatments.  Anything I can do to lessen the wrinkles, I am on board.  I was also really drawn to these because of the SPF 15 in them.

Both of these are super light and fluffy, almost a whipped texture.  The nighttime one smells like oranges and I love it.

I have always been a fan of Boots products and these are no exception!

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay

I first saw this over at Camp Patton and ordered it immediately. 

The description mentions a pulsating formula and I read that to mean it would pull the junk out of my face.  I was right in that assumption.  This stuff WORKS.

I've done the mask a few times and I am going to say it is a miracle worker.  {Knock on wood} since I've done the mask I have had virtually no breakouts.  I am usually cursed with a bad one every few weeks and after this, nothing! 

I will warn you that is is messy and will get all over your hands.  I HATE for my hands to be dirty and icky but this stuff is worth it.  

I've also heard you can mix just a tad up with water and put on a blemish to spot treat.

BOOST IT

GUYS.  I cannot put into words my love for this stuff.

I randomly picked it up at Ulta a few weekends ago when I was looking for a texturizer.  

At $4.99 I was skeptical to how good this spray could be but after one use I was a believer. 

If you want volume and lift this is your spray.  

The description is spot it, it really does create lift...who doesn't want that?

I literally cannot say enough good things about it. 

I use a little bit at my roots at different layers and it is volume to the sky.  It works almost better than teasing...and better than tearing up your hair.  I think it also really helps with the beachy waves look.

Thank you to everyone who complimented my hair earlier this week! I owe that all to this stuff and my curling wand.  

And that is what I've been using lately.  I have a few make up products I want to share with you guys as well...I will have that up soon.

Any other products I should be trying?

Chop Chop

Another action packed weekend at our household.

Friday night started off with a fabulous body scrub at a local spa.

Talk about heaven.

Saturday I was up and at 'em early for a 12 mile run.

It actually went pretty well but I didn't hate that it was over.

After my run I headed to my hair appointment.  My hair was in desperate need for a cut and I had planned on cutting quite a few inches off of it.  And after talking to my stylist, she mentioned that if I went a bit shorter, I could donate it.  Which, I am always for.

So don't mind me, I'm just over here trying to figure out how to style this new bob.

I had one minor moment of 'omg it's so short' and then I got out my curling iron and hairspray and all was right again in the world. 

Sunday was a door open all day, planting new flowers, baking, ice cream run with my neighbor and nap taking day.

All perfect things to me!

I also spent the day asking Floyd what kind of cake he wants for his birthday.

Our baby turns 5 (!) on Thursday! #wahhhh

He spent his weekend helping me garden. And snooze. So much snoozin.

How was your weekend?

Hair Trainin'

 I've always been envious of those girls that say they can go 3+ days without washing their hair.

Not this girl.

It used to be 0 days and slowly, very slowly it's grown to 2.

I think I've finally, after all these years, I've figured it out.

And because it took me so long to figure out, I'd thought I would help you ladies out and share my tools and secrets. 

Or maybe, you all have figured this out already and I'm really late to the game.

Either way, below is what works for me using a mix of baby powder, dry shampoo (I love Suave, it's cheap and works great) and a teasing brush.  I also have to give an honorable mention to hair powder.

First of all, I hate getting up in the morning to wash my hair (I'd much rather snuggle with that rascally basset I have) so I almost always wash it at night.  Also cancelling out any need to blow dry, double win.  Thank you stick straight hair...I like you, sometimes.

 

Morning 1 I use a little dry shampoo at my roots (yes, even when it's freshly clean) and then curl my hair. I try to pin it back so it stays out of my face and cleaner.  

Night 1 I douse my head with baby powder at night before bed. 

As much as I love dry shampoo, I love baby powder even more. 

But only at night because this dark hair and baby powder isn't a cute look. 

It really seems to soak up the oil and lets me wake up with really clean looking hair. 

Morning 2 I spray my roots with dry shampoo and get to teasin'.

Day 2 usually requires a lot of teasing so I can wear a handband or a top knot.
If you put one thing on your Christmas list this year, it should be that teasing brush, it's a straight miracle worker.  If you need further proof, PLL poufed my hair with it one time and we know that girl can work wonders with hair. 

Night 2 time for washing again, sadly. I am really trying to stretch this to another day, work in progress!

There are multiple benefits here and I think the major one is not having to wash your hair every day. We've all heard it's better not too and I am seconding that notion! Plus, not drying it every day is a huge bonus. 

And we all want healthier locks, right?

My hair can get really oily at moments notice.  The longer it's gotten, the quicker this seems to happen.  Riddle me that one?

Although with this process, the oilness seems to be getting better and better.

I used to not believe people when they said they had to 'train' their hair but it's definitely true and I am a believer now.

Granted it isn't a fun (or sometimes cute) process but it works!

Thank goodness it's getting colder and we can all throw some cute beanies on during those not so cute days! 

(Ps this one is going on my Christmas list. And this one just has need written all over it.)

Go forth with your luscious locks!

(Hair) Highlight of my Life

Yesterday I told I had a hair decision to make.
I know you've all been in suspense.

See, I used to be an avid hair highlighter.

And then I went to college and my money started being spent of other things. 

(Bars, shopping, eating out, shopping, shopping) and the highlighting budget went to the wayside.  And that's where it has stayed for the past 6ish years.

Anyway, I have decided to make the plunge to get my hair highlighted again.

I know, I know, this is breaking news for everyone.

Considering it's been (at least) 6 years since I've done this and for a girl that is crazy particular about her hair, it is breaking news.

Mister is tired of hearing me talk about the highlighting and I am losing my mind over finding tiny gray hairs. Besides plucking the the grays, this is the best decision I can come up with. 

As per all big decisions in life, I am turning to you lovely ladies and Pinterest.

I want a subtle look, very sunkissed and nothing too intense.  I want them to be noticeable but not streaky and OMG what did you do.

According to Pinterest here are my options:

 Sooo what are our thoughts?
Should I go for a more subtle brown or a hint of red?
If I had no reservations I would ombre it but I'm not sure how that would go over so I think I should stick to highlights.
You would think that at 28 years old, I could make these decisions on my own.
Nope, I need you ladies.
Help!
Thoughts, concerns, input?!

Linking up with Shanna

Product Review: Hair Signs

Phew, we made it through Monday.

And, just in case you guys were wondering, I took my new kicks out for a spin.

Verdict: they are awesome, lightweight, bright and all around fabulous.

I foresee us spending many, many miles together.

A few weeks ago I had a 20% coupon to Ulta and I was running out of shampoo and conditioner.

I took it as a sign that I needed to get to Ulta promptly.

Luckily for me (not for my wallet) there is Ulta basically across the street from my house. 

As I perusing the aisles I came across the newly designed packaging of the Ulta shampoo/conditioner.

Now, I am usually a loyal big brand girl but I thought this was worth a shot.

And! As if I needed more signs, all of their products were buy 2 get 2 free.

How could I pass that up?!

Again, more signs. 

I ended up picking up the volume and strength shampoo and conditioner, volume infusion primer and style and finish texturizing beach spray.

(Lucky for you all of these products are buy 1 get 1 50% off- I'd say that's a sign for you!)

Verdict: I love them all!

The shampoo and conditioner are dong really well with my hair and I do think they are giving it more volume (my favorite).  It does not make my hair too oily and I have been able to rock second day hair more often (also my favorite. Less blow drying, yes please).

I use the primer spray before I blow dry my hair.  I was sold on it as soon as I read what all it does: conditions hair, heat protector and helps other products bind and adhere to your hair better.  Sold.

The beach spray is also great.  I'm not sure if it's as magical as the Bumble and Bumble one but for this price I think it's great.  My hair is stick straight and it can get some beachy waves into my mane which is a feat in itself so it's a winner to me!

Per usual, Ulta has no idea who I am, these are just my thoughts, I was not compensated for this review.  However, if Ulta does know who I am and wants to send me some new products I wouldn't be mad about it.

Come back tomorrow put in your two cents on a hair decision I am making this weekend!

P.s. the winner of the June sponsor giveaway is Amanda

P.p.s the winner of the $25 PetCo gift card is Julie!
Emails are coming to you ladies!

L'oreal Love

 So the other day I was in the shower and realized that everything I've been using on my hair and face was L'oreal.
This was purely by coincidence only.
And that fact that they always have coupons in the Sunday paper. 
I am pretty brand loyal with some items (my love for elf makeup) but as far as hair care goes I like to branch out and try new things. 
Not to say I don't have my favorites, but my wallet isn't built to buy or use Bumble and Bumble every single day. Oh but if it was...

Below is the arsenal that I've accumulated lately.
And for the sake of not repeating myself a 1,000 times...Aside from being awesome products, I really love how all of these smell.


1. I think this combo is fantastic for every day shampoo and conditioner.  Smells great (told you) and is not too heavy and gives me great volume.  The number one thing I look for in hair products (especially shampoo/conditioner) is volume and these 2 fit the bill.

2.  I recently picked up this nourishing leave in spray to add extra moisture to my hair.  I am a night shower-er and have been spritzing this stuff on, combing it through and waking up with silky strands.  I really love this product and can definitely tell it's working.

3.  Sticking with hair care, I also picked up this hair mask from Ulta (where else?). I have never used a mask before but after reading about them on multiple blogs (great example here) I decided to give it a whirl.  My hair has seemed extra dry lately (side eye winter) and I was hoping this mask would do the trick to whip it back into its silky shape.  Well well well, they are not kidding around!
After the first time I used it, the next day my hair was SO silky smooth.

 4.  I also recently picked up with face wash (I'll give you one guess where) and it has worked out very nicely.  Normally I try to switch back and forth between an deep exfoliating type face wash and something smoother.  This smoother one is really doing the trick.  And anything that promises to keep my skin looking younger is a winner in my book.


And as an honorable mention, I just used up the last of the L'oreal Extra Volume Collagen mascara and loved it.
I'll have reviews on the new mascara I picked up over the weekend and some new elf goodies that were delivered to my door yesterday. 

*I was not compensated for this post. L'oreal has no idea who I am.  I just randomly started buying every thing they make.
 

Currently Loving: Hair and Make Up Favorites

I've been experimenting with a few new hair and make up and I wouldn't be a good friend if I didn't share them with you, duh.

1. elf Studio Mineral Infused Face Primer: Guys, this stuff is like putting silk on your face. It is, by far, the softest thing I've ever put on my face. Have you ever tried a sample of the La Mer moisturizer and felt it's amazing softness? (I say sample because I am pretty sure I don't know anyone that actually owns an Le Mer.) Well it's kinda like that. Softest. Ever.
Not to mention it's also a great primer on top of it's softness, double score.
It may be the most expensive elf item I've ever bought ($6) but it is definitely worth it.
2. Korres Lip Butter (in quince): I actually can't believe I've never told you guys about this lip butter, I've had it for quite some time.
It is the perfect mix of chap stick and lip gloss.
Because it's a butter it isn't too sticky (like a gloss) but can easily by used as an every day chap stick for great color and moisturizing.
Again, double score...I'm just hear to bring you gals all kinds of goodness.
I have heard they have a cheek butter that is just as great and Courtney just wrote about their face cream and said it's wonderful as well. 
3. Elnett: I did it, finally.  Done and done. 
And, yes, it is worth all your pennies, but more so if you can score a $5 off coupon for Ulta. 
4. Got 2b Fat-tastic Mousse: This is an item I picked up on a whim but has worked out really well for me! I have to admit, the term 'fat-tastic' really sold me. I am always looking for anything and everything that will give my hair volume and thickness.  This is a great source for that for every day hair.
On the weekends I tend to use my nicer products. I have this weird theory about saving my 'good stuff' for the weekends. Yes, I'm a total weirdo.
5. elf Essential Jumbo Lip Gloss Stick (in sangria starter): I love the color of this gloss and it's just fun to put on.  It's basically like a big crayon, what's not fun about that?

Have you tried out any new products lately that I need to know about?
I also just got the Tarte Big Thrill (no longer available) thanks to a giveaway over at Her Late Night Cravings and I will have a review on it soon.
So much make up goodness in there. 

Put Some Neo On It

 Sorry for the lack of a post yesterday...Bark in the Park got the best of us.
That and the 100 pictures we took...more on that later this week.

And moving on,
I have a few things in my medicine cabinet that I just can not live without.
Any with all things that I love, I must share them with you!
 

Aside from the usual items in my cabinet: deodorant, gummy vitamins (far superior to regular 'ol vitamins), tylenol, q tips, etc. there are a couple of things I just have to have at all times.

The one I feel most strongly about it is...

Neosporin

I am convinced that Neo heals all.
All.

Whatever it is, you can put Neo on it and it will get better.

I am constantly trying to get Mister to use Neo/put it on his ailments.

To this day, he refuses to do, claiming it doesn't work.

One day, he will come around.

He has stopped telling me about his ailments/bumps/bruises because he knows that I will just tell him to 'put some Neo on it'.

Case in point this conversation happened the other night while I was already in bed:

Me: Mister, will you bring me some Neo??

Mister: Absolutely not, you do not need in bed.

Me: Pllllease.  Just put a little on your finger and I'll swipe it off.
*stares blankly

Mister: You have lost your mind. No.

*turns off the light

 Leaving me to stumble in the dark to get some Neo.

#howrude

What did I want Neo for and what is my #1 use for Neo...

acne spots.

No joke. Has anyone else tried this?

I swear it clears up acne SO fast.
Especially if you put it on over night and it has time to work it's magic

Don't be like Mister, try it, I promise it works wonders.

Floyd is also a victim of my Neo use.
I put it on his paws when he has scuffed them up or played too much at camp.
Works like a charm.
He also likes the taste of Neo, exhibited by the fact that he once ate an entire tube.

Neo, near and dear to my heart.

The second item I feel pretty strongly about is:  Pepogest

Elise introduced me to Pepogest a few years ago and it has been a lifesaver more than once.

Any time I have the slightest stomach ache (or had a few too many the night before)

Pepogest saves the day every single time.

I swear it starts working within 10 minutes of taking it.

It is made of the essential oils found in peppermint and quickly soothes and settles your stomach.

Be aware that it may make you burp and it will make your mouth taste like mint- which is totally fine with me but I know some people hate the taste of mint.

(they are clearly nuts...thin mints anyone?)
I buy mine at the vitamin store or from Amazon.

  
And lastly, but not least by any means, Baby Powder

My mom has always used baby powder but it is a new addition to my medicine cabinet.

Besides it's wonderful smell, baby powder can do wonders for your hair in a magic dry shampoo way.

You guys know my love for the Suave dry shampoo BUT

there are days when the Suave just doesn't make the cut and baby powder comes to the rescue.

Days when I probably should have washed my hair

A sprinkle here and a sprinkle there at your roots and voila!
Just make sure you take the time the rub it in if you have super dark hair like mine.

Any one else have crazy medicine cabinet obsessions like me?

Products I Love: Hair Care

I have a mild obsession with hair products.

I love anything that promises me volume, volume and more volume.

I do try to control my purchases and not buy every product on the block,

but I sure would like to.

I have tried some new products lately that I am really loving.

I figured I would share my finds with you lovely ladies.

!. Bumble and Bumble Styling Cream- I have recently started using this instead of mousse and I am in l.o.v.e.  It gives me so much volume/lift (that lasts all day), shine, and makes my hair feel just down right amazing.  Every time I use it I feel as though my hair looks like I just left the salon.

2. Redken Wool Shake 08- This 'slush gel' is perfect for helping create those beachy waves we all love.  It does not leave your hair crunchy as some products can.  It is great at creating texture and extra volume and I am obsessed with the way it smells.  

3. Loreal EverPure Shampoo and Conditioner- My mom gave me this shampoo and conditioner and boy am I glad she did.  First of all, it smells amazing. Secondly, it is definitely making my hair smoother.  It is for color treated hair, which I do not have right now, but I have really been wanting to get mine ombred, so maybe soon!  Regardless of that fact, I think it is a great shampoo/conditioner.

4. Dove Damage Therapy Volume Boost Shampoo and Conditioner- This shampoo and conditioner create great volume and that, I love. I often rotate between a couple different shampoo/conditioners at a time.  This one will probably continue to be in my rotation for a while.

5. Turbie Twist- My friend Maggie has always sworn by the Turbie Twist and I should have listened to her earlier.  I have just recently gotten my hands on one of these and its such a lifesaver.  It cuts down drying time and it also great to use while putting on make up/getting ready.

Have you used any of these products?

What are your favorite hair products?

Chop Chop: The Big Reveal!

I did it! I chopped my hair on Friday...and I LOVE it! 

It is definitely taking some getting used to but I really like it. 

As soon as I told my stylist I was going to chop my hair she immediately suggested we measure it and see if I had enough to donate it to Locks of Love.

We measured and I did have enough! Yay! 

It is required to have 10" of hair to donate and mine was right at 10" mark.

To get all 10" she had to cut it a little shorter than I was originally anticipating. (Insert momentary panic.)

After a deep breath, I was more than happy to cut my hair a little shorter so someone else could make use of it. 

I am having fun learning and experimenting with different ways of styling it.  

I think more DIY headband projects are definitely in my future!

More pictures to come once I play with it a little more!

(P.S. that is not my house in the background. Ill explain where I was later in the week. )

Chop Chop

This is earth shattering news that I know you have all been dying to know...

I've decided to cut my hair.  I know, I know, you have all been in suspense. 

I made an appointment for Friday for the big chop.  I'm thinking shoulder length.

I've gathered a few photos (who doesn't do that?) I have a feeling stylists actually hate when we do that but a picture just explains it so much better than I can.

I really love this one but it's a little shorter than I think I can handle and I'm not sure my hair is thick enough.  

 Jen does no wrong in the hair world. 

 This is probably a reasonable length.

 I would die for a big swooping bang.  Dang you, cowlick!

I've had shoulder length hair before but it has been awhile and I am ready for a change!  I am nervous but excited for the new 'do! I really love the girl that cuts my hair, Jessica, and I will probably let her make the decision on which is the best cut.

So which one is your favorite?