Mix and Match for Fall

One of my absolute, favorite things about Fall, are the colors. The rich colors. The mix of textures. Oh, I could just go on and on, for days. Instead, I was searching through Polyvore last night. Passing some time, before calling a friend.

What did I find? Well, lots of things. But there was one board, that completely stuck out to me. I don't know what it was. But I adored it. What do you think?

Mostly, I like the colors. The variety of colors. But more than anything, I like the idea of mixing textures. Of mixing, and matching pieces, from different seasons. For example, that dress might be from Spring or Summer. Those shoes, and that ring, are definitely Summer pieces. But that jacket, and the makeup, scream Fall and Winter to me.

That's the thing I love about Fall. You can mix and match so much. To get that perfect look. OK, I'm not in love with these shoes. But I like the color. Maybe I'd pair this outfit, with a similarly colored clutch. Perhaps find a pair of coral and pink earrings. And a turquoise blue ring. Taking these colors, but using them in a slightly, different way.

Quite in fact, this little picture, has inspired me. I'm sort of challenged by it. And now, I'm dying to dig through my closet. To see what I can pair together. What pieces would go well. As we transition from Summer, to Fall. ♥

Summertime Favorite

I have to put these out there. I'm definitely what you would call a "Girly, Girl." I LOVE makeup, clothes, shoes, jewelry, accessories. All that good stuff. But I've never really felt like I was a gorgeous woman.

Most of this might be, because I cheered when I was younger. And was surrounded by gorgeous girls. My Mom didn't really wear makeup. So I was on my own there. My hair has always been a "Thorn in My Side." That sort of thing.

But as I've gotten older, I've really begun to enjoy these things much more. A lot of this probably has something to do with this lady, and this lady. Oh, and because I've become a performer now. And it's my "job" to dress up, and look nice.

Well, as much as I love all these things, in the "Heat of Summer," I'm not a fan! Not at all! In fact, for the last few weeks, I've been sporting leggings, and some sort of long and flowy tank top. Oh, and those ballet flats. My hair is up and out of my face. Makeup is at a bare minimum.

But I don't think it's a "Bad Thing." Heck no! It leaves more time to enjoy life. And I feel so much "lighter." Heck, I'm pretty sure, my skin and hair are thanking me right now. But the one thing that I've always really gotten into, during the Summer, is nail color!

Yes, it's my one thing. It's definitely a "Summer Thing." I paint my nails 2-3 times a week. I probably buy 4 nail polishes a week! It's so addictive. Because it's my way of adding color, to my outfit. And honestly, painted nails are s cute!

Well, in the Summer I usually gravitate towards 2 colors. White or Essie's Turks & Caicos. I know! But they remind me of Summer. I sport the white for 3 or 4 weeks. Then add that gorgeous turquoise color for a week or so.

Last week, My Bestie needed to make a quick run to the store. She was all out of chocolate! And we all know what happens when Hills doesn't have chocolate! :) So we headed to a local CVS. She went looking for candy, and ice cream. I got caught up by this gorgeous display of L'Oreal nail polish!

And what in the world did I find? Some of the most gorgeous colors! Colors that all the "expensive brands" are carrying right now. I quickly picked 4, got my favorite magazines, and a couple of cards. Yes, I know! But it was some last minute stuff that I needed, before we left on vacation. :)



This gorgeous color is called, "Club Prive." This incredibly creamy, aqua color. Immediately, I was in LOVE!!! When we got back, I realized I'd forgotten Turks & Caicos at home. Good thing I picked this baby up!

2 things you should know. Maybe 3. This color is almost exactly the same as Essie's Turks & Caicos. But it only cost $5! It's very similar to China Glaze's For Audrey. Except For Audrey is a bit more blue. Unless you're like me, you probably wouldn't notice this. Oh, and the consistency of the polish, is AMAZING!!!

So we've been on the water, and the beach, for days now! My nails have been painted since last Friday. No base coat. No top coat. This polish is amazing!!! It might just be my new Summertime favorite! :) I can't wait to get back, to try my other 3 colors!!! ♥

Makeup for a Cause

Not long ago, I found this company on twitter. Actually, they found me. But as I started reading about the company, I was really impressed! Makeup for a worthy cause.



Do you ever find yourself buying makeup, and wondering about making a difference? A few years ago, my eyes were opened up. As I moved closer to the border, I realized just how much violence is in the world. As I entered the medical profession, it became even clearer.

A few years ago, MAC started a controversy with one of their "Limited Edition" lines. They made a donation to the cause. But it wasn't anything like Radiant Cosmetics. Who really are using their company, to make a difference in the world. And in women's lives.



The mission of Radiant Cosmetics, is to make people aware of Human Trafficking. And all the violence that comes along with it. Every Radiant Cosmetics purchase, helps to support this cause. And helps in the fight against Human Trafficking.



This company really touched me. It really hit home for me. I've already purchased some items from Radiant Cosmetics. Not only are they supporting a GREAT cause. But their makeup is pretty amazing too! Give Radiant Cosmetics a try. You'll be helping out women, who don't have a voice. And who NEED our help! ♥

Worth a Try

I don't know about you, but when I find a favorite mascara, it's hard for me to try another. Really, it is! I'm sure, by now you know this is my favorite. But recently, I was sent Rimmel's Lash Accelerator to try out!

Now I'll be honest with you, I'm picky as can be, when it comes to mascara. I can't help myself. It's my favorite makeup product. And I keep many of these on hand. But I like to try out other mascaras. Being that, the only way I get my favorite, is to do a swap with someone in the UK.



Back to Rimmel's Lash Accelerator. I don't need a lengthening mascara. I have pretty long eyelashes already. But this is exactly what this mascara is. A lengthening mascara. And for someone who already has long lashes, this little tube still performed some miracles. :)

My lashes already hit my eyelids. Even when I don't curl them. But after a month of using this mascara, I noticed my lashes extend even further! I was impressed. The mascara also held a curl well. Which in my book, is really important. You don't want droopy eyelashes by lunchtime. And I don't want to be bringing along all sorts or tools and products, to touch up with.

But there are some negatives, to this mascara. First, I was missing the volume. That is one of the things, that I just have to have from a mascara. For me volume is HUGE! Secondly, I have oily skin. By lunchtime, I noticed the beginnings of "Raccoon Eyes." Ugh! I've had other friends, with "normal skin" who LOVED this product. And had no smudging. So keep that in mind.

On a more positive note, this is a very reasonably priced product. I noticed earlier this week, at Walgreen's, that it was on sale for $4 a tube. A GREAT price! Even to just try it out. I encourage that. Really I do! Every product works very differently, for everyone. But this mascara, is definitely worth a try. ♥

Oh My!

Do you ever find a single product, and completely get stuck on it? Say you have a nice little eyeshadow collection, and you reach for the same 2 eyeshadows every single day. I'm one of those people. When I find a product I LOVE, I stick with it.

This could be the reason why I move Heaven and Earth, to track down my beloved mascara. Or why for the last 15+ years, I've used the same sunscreen. Or why no matter what new hand soap comes out, I'm still buying Target's "Milk and Honey" gigantic bottle of soap!

And sometimes, I do this with certain colors of makeup. And I'm not just talking about my foundation. I'm talking about things like lipstick, eyeshadows, and nail colors. A few years ago, I got stuck on white nail polish. For 3+ months, I wore white nail polish. These days, it's Sally Hansen's "Cafe Au Lait!"



It's just the perfect neutral color! :) For the last 2 months, we've been BFFs!!! And I just had to share with all of you. First of all, this is totally affordable. I bought 2 bottles of Sally Hansen nail polish, for $6. At Walgreen's, during a sale. These sales happen all the time! As in every other week.

Secondly, this nail polish is a dream to work with! The formula is not watery, but it's also not to think. I find this to be really important. A thin formula usually means, about 4 or 5 coats. Essentially, wasting the product. And if it's too thick, you get gloppy, messy looking nails. Not with this nail polish. I can get a good opaque look, in 1 coat. With 2 coats, it's just AMAZING! And better yet, you don't need a base coat or a top coat. Just this nail polish!

By this I mean, 2 coats equals a 8-10 day manicure! What a dream! Especially when you are busy like me. You just don't have time to sit and polish your nails. This color, formula, and price is a DREAM!!! It's paired nicely for some performances, a wedding, and a day at the lake. Honestly, this is one of those products, you have to buy this summer! ♥

My New LOVE!!!

By now, I'm sure you all know about my obsession with mascara. If you don't, well I'm beyond obsessed! So when I opened up my mail, and found this turquoise tube, I was "Over the Moon!!!"

Not only do I adore mascara. But voluminous mascara is my absolute favorite! I have long lashes. So I don't need length. But I adore volume. And lots of it! Not "Spider Eyes." But very voluminous and soft lashes.



It's been about 6 weeks now. I've been using Maybelline's Mega Plush. Almost daily. I LOVE that you can build up the mascara, without getting that "clumpy look." I'm so not a fan of that! The mascara doesn't flake off. But at the end of an 18 hour shift, I notice a little smudging. For me, this is normal. Because I have oily skin. My real test, is always trying the "Waterproof" version.

I will say, Mega Plush holds your curl all day long! And although it is being advertised as a voluminous product, I have noticed that it also adds some length. Definitely a plus! For me, the best part of this mascara, is the way my lashes are left feeling. Not completely natural. But not hard and brittle.

Other positives to this product are, the dark black color. Not all mascaras have that deep black pigment. Something I have to have. Although my hair has naturally lightened since I was a child, my eyebrows and eyelashes have stayed a dark black color. The deep pigment was almost unexpected. I usually have to dish out some dollars for that. Another bonus, is the wand. It's flexible. And for someone with long lashes, I like to bend the wand a bit. It helps me, to get in the corners a lot easier.

I'd definitely recommend this product. I'm not being paid to say this. Or for this post. I was just sent the product. But I'm in LOVE!!! I just adore the mousse like formula. It's a dream. The gel allows for easy application. But the mousse like texture, allows for your lashes to feel natural. My next test, is the "Waterproof" version. But definitely give this a try. I know that this product is currently selling for $5 at most drugstores. A complete score!!! ♥

The Magic of Little Sister!

This guy's little sister, knows that I adore Max Factor. Heck, she knows that I adore makeup in general! I finally figured out, who was giving this guy, so many tips about makeup. He ALWAYS brings home sweet gifts for me. Like MAC's entire, newest collection! Or some new product, that I've never heard of. It's his little sister. Oh, and that manager, at our local mall. :)

Anyways, his little sister met someone in the UK. I'm not sure how. Or the details. But they were chatting it up. And decided to do some sort of "Makeup Swap." I don't know all the details. But "Little Sister," asked for some specific things. Some of which, we're for me!!!

I almost cried, when I got 5 tubes of my beloved mascara! The blue tube, because it's waterproof! And 10 Lipfinity Lip Tint Pens! Oh my goodness!!! I've been walking on clouds, ever since!

Yes, she knows, that I simply adore lipstains. I've got very pigmented lips. And these liptints, just seem to be, the way to go. Oh, and they're amazingly long lasting! Especially on my long, 48 hour shifts, at the hospital! They last!



These liptints are AMAZING! You can build up the color. To get amazingly pigmented lips. Like a lipstick. But they are long lasting. And you don't leave a "Lipstick Trail." You know, on glasses, or this man's lips. :)

Unlike other lipstains that I've used, these don't dry out your lips. They are left feeling soft. The applicator is the perfect shape! Often times, they're too big. But this one is perfect! Giving you good control, when applying the product. You don't need any lipliners, or lipgloss, to complete your look. Everything you need, comes in this little tube!

Yay, for "Makeup Swaps," and "Little Sisters!" Is there anyone from the UK, that would be willing to do a "Makeup Swap" with me? I've got my eyes on a few more "UK Only Products!" ♥

Too Supreme

I'm a VERY LUCKY WOMAN! This Guy, he surprises me all the time. With lots of gifts. Things that I never ask for. And most times, don't even know, that I want. :) But that's part of the fun, of having an AMAZING boyfriend!

Let's press forward. My Guy, knows that I have this semi-serious, LOVE AFFAIR with makeup. MAC to be more specific. :) And without fail, weeks before the collections come out, he comes home with them. How? I still don't know! But it's pretty amazing.



For example, MAC's Too Supreme Collection, came out March 1st. This guy, came home with them, about 6 weeks ago. And I swear to you, it was LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT!!!



The collection has 24 pieces. 24 pieces of pure bliss! 11 Sheen Supreme Lipglasses. Which are limited addition. And 13 Sheen Supreme Lipsticks. Which get this, are PERMANENT!!!



Now let's take a closer look. :) These lipsticks are a dream. A dream I tell you! They are a lipstick, with the finish of a lipglass! They don't leave that, "weird sticky feeling." Just a beautiful finish. Not too shiny. Just perfect!

I'm still a little uncertain, about the lavender. When do you wear lavender lipstick? And the darker nudes, well are a bit dark. But these are a dream! And I'm going to figure out, how to make them all work! Between, they're $14.50 a piece.



Then you have the "clickable" lipglass. I LOVE the colors. The finish is wonderful! And did I mention? They are clickable! This germaphobe, is so excited! I HATE sticking the lipgloss wands back inside the tube. This concept, just seems so much more sanitary. And $19 a lipglass.



Yes, this is one of those collections, that just excited me! In ways, I NEVER thought makeup would! I've worn these products, every single day, since I got them. This man is just AMAZING!

How he knows about these things, I may never know. But I have a feeling, one of his assistants, has to be on top of this stuff. One day, I'll catch somebody, researching beauty products! Until then, I'm off to enjoy some Royal Azalea! ♥

Illegal Length Fiber Extensions Mascara

If you know me in real life, you'll know about my "Mascara Obsession." It's real. And according to some, it's a real problem! I don't believe them. But I'm serious about my mascara. :)

A few years ago, I wanted to cry, when I heard Max Factor, would no longer be sold in the USA. I'm not lying! Their 2000 Calorie mascara was my favorite. Absolute favorite! In waterproof. Immediately, I went out, and bought 20 tubes!

It didn't take me long to go through it. Unfortunately. And I had to go out, and search out a new mascara. Since then, I've been hooked on Covergirl's LashBlast! But I still try lots of other mascaras. Because my LOVE of mascara, is just too big, for me to control!

I try all kinds of mascaras. High end mascaras. Drugstore mascaras. All of them. I don't need a lengthening mascara. I have LONG eyelashes. But I just adore voluminous mascaras! Every mascara, that I've ever LOVED, is a voluminous mascara.

Until I ran into Maybelline's new mascara. Meet Illegal Length Fiber Extensions Mascara. My newest friend. The one, that makes me excited, to get ready!



Like I said, I'm a total fan of mascara. I've tried them all. And I'm ridiculously picky, when it comes to my mascara. I like a mascara that doesn't clump. That makes my lashes look full. Without looking like "Spider Eyes." When I was a cheerleader, in high school, one of the girls, had those horrible "Spider Eyes." Where you could count the eyelashes, because of clumpy mascara. I've always HATED that look!

But I also want a mascara that doesn't run. I have very oily skin. Which means, most mascaras don't hold up. They usually leave me with lots of smudging. And therefore, "Raccoon Eyes." I'm not a fan! No way! That's why 99.9% of the time, I wear a waterproof mascara. It's just the way it has to be. But I when I wore Illegal Length, I noticed that it didn't budge. And it's not waterproof. A total positive!

So for the woman, that usually has 5 mascaras going at one time, this is a total score! It's the first "fiber" mascara, that I've actually liked. Most of them usually end up in a mess, all over your face! This formula, is different. It hooks onto your lashes, and doesn't budge. Did I mention the length? I already have ridiculously LONG lashes. But this mascara, made them go on for miles! Even this guy noticed! Literally, my eyelashes went past my eyebrows!

I dare say, this is nearing the top of my "Mascara List!" If you buy it at say, Walgreen's, during a sale, you'll pay around $4 a tube. I'm not lying! For me, this is my "going out" mascara. The one I reach for, on "Date Night." It's definitely one to try out, if you're still on the hunt for "The Perfect Mascara!" ♥

15 Years of Urban Decay

Oh ya! This is the Urban Decay 15th Anniversary Palette! I about died, when this man came home with it, just a few weeks ago. Nicely wrapped up. Seriously, how does he have connections, in the "Beauty World." Oh ya, he's got "people." :P That's what he tells me, when I ask. I'm just glad, that his people, keep finding amazing products like this!

But back to the makeup! This palette is a little pricey. $55 for these 15 shadows. I'll admit it, I was pondering this purchase. Since I had heard about, I was curious. And I was intrigued by this new palette. Who wouldn't be? I just couldn't get past the price tag.

Now that I have this beauty to play with, I'll still say, it's priced slightly above value. Higher, in my opinion, than other Urban Decay palettes. But with that said, I do enjoy this palette. There are plenty of neutrals. But there are also a few fun and bright colors. A perfect mix, to go from work appropriate makeup, to fun party looks.

I was never the "Makeup Phenom." I had to become skilled in makeup, as my career in music grew. And I've been blessed with an amazing friend and personal MUA. Who teaches me so much! But this palette, I'd recommend for anyone! I'm talking makeup newbies, and makeup artists. There is so much, for everyone.

I'd even like to mention, that while I was in high school, this would have been perfect! Like I said, I wasn't all skilled in makeup application. This beauty, would have made all that so much easier! The shadows blend magically, effortlessly. These days, I just can't imagine life without Urban Decay. What did we do before the company came around? ♥

Warm & Cozy Autumn Makeup

I tend to be a big fan of Charlotte. I've been watching her YouTube videos for years. And now I'm starting to read her new blog too! But honestly, I just enjoy Charlotte's personality and style. Oh, and this "Fall" inspired look, is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Which I might just have to try on Thanksgiving. Because you know, I like to try new things. Oh, and I have pretty much all those products already. Not sure if that is good or bad. :) ♥

Barbie Goes to Yemen

I just LOVE this tutorial by Carly. She does some amazing looks. Both very wearable, and high fashion. Where I'd wear this to, I don't know. But it's so fun!

Maybe I should have dressed up as Barbie for Halloween. That would been a lot of fun! Could you imagine, the cute outfit you could pair with this makeup? Oh, the possibilities!

If you liked this tutorial, you should take a look at Carly's blog too! She is so amazing. And she is very talented. I just enjoy her videos. ♥

Purple Smokey Eyes

I'm a "Brown Eyed Girl." And a performer. So makeup, it's just part of my life. I have an amazing friend and MUA...all in one. Mrs. Manders. And she does an amazing job with my makeup.

But before her, it was a lot of trial and error. Mostly error. I'm not going to lie. And where in the heck were my friends? They let me go out in public like that! Blue eye shadow, pink cheeks, and those lips...it was not good. Even in my red, white, and blue cheerleading uniform!

But a few tricks that I've learned along the way, and have really enjoyed, are mostly regarding technique. Good technique means you can wear almost any color and look. :) Makes me really happy!

I've also learned that I really enjoy a nice smokey eye. Even for an "Every day" look. You just have to adjust the colors, to where you are going. You know, I'll wear a nice neutral-brown smokey eye for work at the hospital. But I'll wearing a teal smokey eye to a gig. Especially when we wear our teal trajes. Heck, my favorite, is a good, old-fashion black smokey eye. With a red lip. Very nice for both mariachi and pin-up style performing.

And lastly, a good purple is amazing for us "Brown Eyed Gals!" I'm really liking Kandee's take on it too! Grab some purple eye shadow, and lets start playing! You know, makeup is a lot of fun when you don't end up looking like a clown. I had enough of those days in high school. Now, it's all about fun and elegance. ♥

My New Love

This is love! I may have found a mascara that takes the place of Covergirl's Lashblast. I'm talking about Maybelline's Falsies. Of course, I have the waterproof. That's just life. I like me some waterproof mascara.

Anyway, I just love the shape of the brush. I would have never thought. But the shape of the brush helps give a great coat of mascara. The overall formula of the mascara is amazing too! It provides volume and length.

Does it make me look like I have false eyelashes? No. But does it make my eyelashes look amazing? Yes! I have pretty long eyelashes, but I'm always looking for volume. This mascara gives it all. With no smudging. No clumping. Just a great mascara. Fun, inexpensive, and a great beauty find. ♥

My Favorite Mascara

This is my new favorite mascara. Hands down! Since I can no longer find Max Factor 2000 Calorie. You know, my all time favorite! The best mascara made. Well, at least in my opinion. :) But honestly, Lashblast is amazing. I have fairly long eyelashes. And they're pretty thick. But this mascara makes my eyelashes look amazing! Like I'm wearing falsies. With no clumping, or "spider eyes." I'm not a fan of "spider eyes." But Lashblast is definitely a new favorite of mine. Especially the waterproof formula! ♥