Family * Travel * Food

Remington College Columbia Campus offers free salon services for high school students headed to prom

Free Prom Night Makeovers available on select dates in April, May
 
The cost for students to attend high school proms quickly adds up - from tickets, the dress or tuxedo, a trip to the salon, and maybe even a limo.
 
Remington College-Columbia Campus wants to help the families of high schoolers save some money by offering free salon services at its annual Prom Night Makeover event.
 
Students in the Remington College Cosmetology Program will provide high schoolers headed to prom with free haircuts, up-dos, manicures, pedicures and makeup services.

Prom Night Makeover at
Remington College Columbia Campus
 
Event dates: Friday, April 20, 2018
                        Friday, April 27, 2018
                        Friday, May 4, 2018
Salon Hours: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Appointments: Call 803-214-9062
 
All Prom Night Makeover services will take place at the Remington College School of Cosmetology, located at 607 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29210. Appointments are recommended and can be made by calling 803-214-9062.
 
This is the ninth year that Remington College is holding its Prom Night Makeover event, which has provided thousands of high school students across the country with free salon services.
 
Remington College's Cosmetology Diploma program teaches students the art of hair, skin and nail care through traditional classroom instruction and hands-on training in the Remington College School of Cosmetology, which allows students to work with real clients.
 
For more on the Remington College Cosmetology Program, visit remingtoncollege.edu or call 
1-800-496-0571.
 
First come, first serve. Appointments are recommended. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
 
About Remington College:  Non-profit Remington College, headquartered in Lake Mary, FL, operates 16 college campuses throughout the United States offering career focused diploma, bachelor and associate degree programs in a variety of career fields. For more information, please visit  remingtoncollege.edu. For the latest news about Remington College, visit facebook.com/remingtoncollege. Remington College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs and other school administered programs. 
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January Ipsy Glam Bag Review #IpsyGameFace

Every month I look forward to receiving my Ipsy Glam Bag in the mail. I subscribed about two years ago, and I'm hooked! I tell everyone that it is the best $10 I spend. You get a cute bag, 5 beauty products, and FREE shipping for ten bucks! I can easily spend $10 on dumb stuff, so this makes good sense. Also, makeup. Over time I have received products from some of my favorite brands like: Tarte, Smashbox, Urban Decay, Bare Minerals, Caked Makeup, and Doucce to name a few. 

My glam bag subscription has become a part of my self-care routine, and it's nice to look forward to something that is just for me. My older daughter has her own subscription and often gets different products than I do. We have so much fun sorting through our goodies and sometimes trade items. I am digging the January "Game Face" themed bag. The bag itself it so cute. It has a sporty, retro feel. 

Inside the bag: 

  • NYX Professional Lip Lingerie in Beauty Mark- goes on creamy with a matte finish. I do love the color, but it has a slight sticky feel initially. Once it wears in, it feels a whole lot better. 
  • CIATÉ LONDO Fierce Flicks Liquid Eyeliner- I actually gave this to my younger daughter because I have tons of liquid liners already. This one is supposed to dry quickly and not smudge. Perfect for the cat eye look. 
  • BellaPierre Cosmetics StayPut Brow Gel in Licorice- I love the way it is packaged. The brush is on the top of handle and the product is in a jar on the bottom. I tried it and don't really care for it. The gel didn't apply as well as my normal brow makeup. I gave it to my older daughter and she seems to really like it. 
  • BeFine Skin Care Exfoliating Cleanser- made with all-natural ingredients brown sugar, almond, and oats. It leaves your skin crazy smooth, and soft. It also moisturizes. I will definitely be buying this in a full-size tube. 
  • BioRepublic Skincare Sheet Masks- I got two: Aloe Rescue & Pomegranate Crush. I haven't tried them yet, but the product description makes them sound promising. Here are the details: These eco-friendly masks are 100% biodegradable. Aloe Rescue has phytocollagen, aloe vera extract, and Vitamin E to soothe and moisturize dry skin. Pomegranate Crush is loaded with antioxidant-packed pomegranate extract and vitamin E to hydrate, brighten, and smooth *all* skin types.



I am happy with my January glam bag overall. Even though I couldn't use all of the products myself, my daughters were able to. It makes it worth it. I can't wait to see what I get in February. If you are interested in receiving your own monthly Ipsy Glam Bag, you can use my sign-up link. I will get 250 points for every sign-up I receive to use towards products. If you become a subscriber, you can refer friends and get points too! They add up quickly since you get more points if you do a quick review on the Ipsy site. So far I have cashed in so many points that gave me around 6 freebies. 


Ipsy is a great way to try products out before you consider buying the full size. Do you have a favorite monthly beauty subscription? I'd love to know! 
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7 Ways to Maintain a Young-Looking Face

We all want to look as youthful as possible for as long as possible. We spend money on creams, facials, fillers, and even sometimes plastic surgery. To get some tips for how we can maintain a young-looking face, we went to several great beauty professionals including Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery in Philadelphia, who has appeared on national programs such as Good Morning America and 20/20. Here’s what they all have to say.

1. Get rest.
There absolutely is such a thing as beauty sleep. “Women come to my practice thinking they need an eye-job or a facelift when all they need is sleep. Sleep is a time when we rejuvenate ourselves and cellular turnover is at its height. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep nightly will make a huge difference in how youthful a woman appears especially as she approaches age 30 and collagen production decreases,” says Dr. Brandow. “A woman can speed up aging if they are constantly sleep deprived.”

2. Use an overnight treatment.
If you suffer from breakouts or skin dryness leading to wrinkles or blotches, treating your skin concerns at night, is a way to maintain a youthful glow. “Work closely with your dermatologist or aesthetician who can recommend non-irritating skin treatments specifically addressing your concern,” advises Dr. Brandow. You want to take advantage of overnight options available to boost collagen and heal skin while sleeping. You may also want to consider using Gundry MD Dark Spot Diminisher

3. Hydrate
When it comes to anti-aging and putting your most youthful face forward, water is key. Water flushes your system of toxins which helps skin to glow. “Women spend a lot of money on topical creams formulated to boost moisture and hydrate the skin yet, if they integrated more water, even 4, 8 ounce glasses per day, they would see fewer wrinkles and an overall smoother younger skin texture within a month,” says Dr. Adriane Pompa, Miami based board certified dermatologist who specializes in aging skin.

4. Be smart about fillers
Fillers are used to add volume that diminishes as we age but people have taken it to extremes. There have been many advancements with fillers over the past 5 years offering more options and more sophisticated ways to administer them to achieve a youthful look.

According to Dr. Brandow, many patients believe that filling their cheeks will soften their laugh lines, so they push doctors to administer two to four syringes in their cheek bones and cheek area at once. This can result in swelling and doesn’t necessarily lift their face. Fillers are often done as an alternative to a face lift but, if not spread out over several weeks, it just gives the patient an unnatural look that distorts their face and makes them look odd.

“My personal preference is to perform the fillers sequentially. For example, I will use one syringe of filler in multiple locations. Then I’ll have patients return in 4-6 weeks and perhaps do another syringe to the same places, or different places, giving them an overall natural look. This leads to a softer, more natural result. The key to doing fillers well are going with small amounts every 4-6 weeks,” explains Dr. Brandow.

5. Get facials.
According to Dr. Adriane Pompa, one facial per month does wonders for skin’s clarity, texture, and ability to produce collagen. “There are many at-home facials available one can do weekly. The key is knowing your skin type and ingredients that address your specific skin concern. Also, you can treat different parts of the face differently depending on skin issue. Let’s say you are prone to breakouts on your jawline, have wrinkles on your forehead and dryness on the cheeks, your dermatologist or aesthetician can recommend a facial plan customized for you.”

6. Consider lasers and light!
Lasers are another tool that blasts away acne scars, evidence of past sun damage and evens out skin giving that flawless, youthful glow. There have been so many advancements with lasers resulting in more immediate results without downtime. Lasers typically cost between $600 - $1200 per treatment depending on the city and type of laser. The advantage with lasers is accuracy. You can treat a specific area without affecting the rest of the surrounding skin.

7. Tone down your make-up.
One way to immediately take 10 years off your look is to revamp your make-up. Consider hiring a professional make-up artist who can teach you how to enhance and even modernize your look. New York make-up artist, Carlo Geraci, who was protégé to Trish McEvoy and Kevin Aucion, explains that a lot of women are doing their make-up the same way they did 20 years ago. That bronzer that you loved in the 90’s when you were 24 may appear harsh and outdated at 44. “Heavy eye liner and strong lip colors may only accentuate wrinkles and fine lines. As women age, less is more when it comes to make-up. Opt for a great hydrating foundation or a touch of concealer, a pinch of blush, a swipe of mascara or a gray or brown eyeliner and a natural looking lip liner topped with a tinted hydrating balm,” he suggests.

About the Experts:
Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery is a plastic surgeon with 2 locations in the Philadelphia metro area and a 3rd one at the jersey shore. Named a “Top Doc” in Plastic Surgery by Philadelphia Magazine as well as nationally recognized for one of America’s “Best Plastic Surgeons” of this decade, Dr. Brandow is a trusted expert who has developed many innovative, minimally invasive procedures for the face, body and skin. He has been featured on local, national and international television programs including 20/20, CNN’s Headline News, Good Morning America.

Dr. Adriane Pompa is a board-certified dermatologist and Associate Professor of Dermatology at University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital who is highly trained in medical dermatology, dermatologic surgery and cosmetic dermatology. In addition to her general practice, she specializes in anti-aging skin care, skin cancer prevention and treatment, and laser use in dermatology.

Carlo Geraci, New York make-up artist has worked alongside Kevin Aucoin, helped launch the Trish McEvoy brand, and was invited by Barneys New York to became the first Beauty Guru, a position created specifically for him. His work has appeared in print and commercial campaigns, New York Fashion Week runways, red carpets, Broadway stages, television, film, and fashion editorials. He has also appeared on the Style Network, CBS News, and Today on NBC. 
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Get Set for Spring with These 5 Beauty Hacks

Just as spring is the perfect time for a full house clean and de-cluttering, it’s also great for a beauty update. There’s nothing better than getting your hair and skin ready for the summer season with a few new treats and luxuries. Since busy moms won’t have a lot of time and money to waste on beauty, We've rounded up the best beauty hacks to get set for spring. With these tips, tricks and trends you can look and feel gorgeous as the sun-rays start treating your skin.

Treat the dry hair

After winter, most of us suffer from dry hair. It’s not even our fault or a lack of TLC that causes it. Winter can just be rather rough on the hair with the temperature changes (indoors it’s hot, outdoors it’s cold) and weather such as constant rain and the wind. We all feel a bit worn out after winter so it isn’t really a big thing to find your hair calling for help as well.

If you’re suffering from parched, dry hair, hair masks are the way to go. There are tons of good treatments out there – give the FekkaiPrXReparatives Intensive Fortifying Masque a go. If you want to find a clever tip for keeping your hair looking smooth at all times, then make your own de-tangler. You just need to add about two tablespoons of your chosen conditioner into a travel-sized spray bottle. Add water, shake well, and you've got a handy product to spray on your hair for quick dehydration!

Wave it up with no heat

Since you want to give your hair a bit more breathing room after the tough winter, you want to leave those hair straighteners and tongs untouched. If you want a no-hassle look, then wave the ends overnight with this simple beauty hack.

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You can add a hold and shine product such as TRESemmé Make Waves to washed and damp hair. Twist your hair into long spirals and create a cute bun with the spirals by tying it up into a knot. Make sure the ends of the hair are tucked underneath. Hold in place with a hair elastic. Open up in the morning and voilá!

Become a primer fanatic

Primers are the unsung heroes of our makeup bags. If you’re not using one, then you need to add one to your storage box immediately. Primer is the perfect spring hack because it evens out your tone and hydrates the dry winter skin at the same time.

Finding the perfect primer on your skin will require a bit of testing. For this reason, it can be a good idea to enter makeup stores and ask for samples – they are more than happy to demonstrate their products and it will save your pennies! If you want a few ideas, we would recommend Benefit The Professional and MAC Prep + Prime Natural Radiance Primer.

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Now, don’t be afraid to go primer crazy. You shouldn’t just use it on your face. Primers can help you achieve a glowing look on the legs, décolletage and arms. So, before you head out on the tank top, add just a bit of primer for a healthier tone.

Makeup brush for the best complexion

Sometimes we pay too much attention to the actual beauty products and not the tools we use with them. But the blame, for example, might not be on the kind of foundation you use, but the way you apply it. When it comes to spring beauty hacks, do yourself a favor and ditch the old makeup brushes and invest in a great brush. A good brush can help you achieve that perfect dewy complexion for the season.

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Charlotte Tilbury’s Foundation Brush is perfect for adding a liquid foundation on your skin. The tapered tool is easy to use and clean, making it super easy to add a soft layer of makeup on your skin. If you want something more matte, then pick a larger brush – the KevynAucoin’s the Foundation Brush is a great pick. You can find both brushes from Cult Beauty – with the added benefit of saving money with your purchase!

Get a head start for the glow

Now spring sun isn’t yet enough to get that beautiful tan. However, you can add instant glamour and freshness to your look with a bronze glow. The solution then is to opt for the faux tanning lotions. Now, we admit, these are not always a girl’s best friends. The tanning lotions can cause more mess than beauty –it’s on the sheets, your clothes, your children and the furniture!

You should try some of the new additions to the tanning lotion regime. Whish Coconut Milk and Bareminerals Faux Tan Body are quite good and less messy than some previous products. Furthermore, if you do get a bit too much tanning lotion on you or you notice patches, pick a bit of baking soda to clean it up. Sprinkle the baking soda on a washcloth and scrub it onto your damp skin. Rinse with warm water and you are good to go!

With these 5 beauty hacks, you are set for spring in no time!

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How To Treat Yourself Every Month For Only $10

Being a mom often times means that you won't buy anything that you don't need for yourself. We are always thinking of the kids and tend to put our dollars towards their needs before our own. I remember seeing several of my online friends posting their cosmetic subscriptions boxes and was so curious about signing up for myself. After much consideration, I finally gave in. I subscribed last Summer to the Ipsy Glam Bag and couldn't be happier. Honestly, I don't know why I waited so long!

Ipsy costs only $10 each month and there is no shipping fee. You get a themed bag along with 5 beauty products every month. When you sign up for Ipsy, you will set up your personal profile to include your product preferences, colors, skin tone, skin type and more. This helps Ipsy to tailor bags that will work for you. Sometimes you will get lucky and receive full-size products, but most are sample/travel size. It is a great way to try products out to decide if it is something you want to buy without being stuck paying full price for the one item.

I think for $10, this is an amazing value! I have found some really great products along the way that I love and don't feel any guilt about doing something special for myself. Also, you accumulate points from doing reviews or getting people to sign up that can be redeemed for free items. You have nothing to lose and can unsubscribe at any time. If you would like to sign up, here is my referral link. I will get points for it (no money). Below are some of my previous Glam Bags so you can see for yourself what they have inside. What are you waiting for? Treat yourself today, because you deserve it!





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The Travel Files: Tartan+Twine Cosmetic Cases

This has been a busier than normal travel year for me. I feel like as soon as I unpack my bags, I am repacking them. We go on plenty of overnight trips, but I find myself packing like I'm going away for a week. Does this sound familiar to you too? One thing that is important to me is my cosmetics. I usually pack my makeup, perfume and brushes in makeup bags and keep them all in one medium size tote. I travel exclusively by car, and it is not unusual that my makeup rides in the front seat. I am that serious about my
precious eye shadows, lippies, and fragrance.

I was oh so lucky to get some gorgeous new cases from Tartan+Twine to review. First up is the Large Organizer from the Tawney Steppe Collection.


I love the quilted micro-suede fabric and the generous space inside, including a zippered compartment. You can easily keep your toiletries on one side, and makeup on the other. This bag retails for $25 and can be purchased at Ulta Beauty stores.


Next is the Tartan+Twine Double Zip Train Case from the Caitlyn Grove Collection. I am obsessed with this big and beautiful case. It is large enough to fit ALL of my beloved cosmetics. 😍


It is perfect for my eyeshadow palettes and even has separate sections for cosmetic brushes, lippies, and more. This is so good for when I want to take 1/2 dozen lip glosses and 3 mascaras. A girl can never have enough color variety when out of town. 👄


Now I can travel in style and keep my makeup and toiletries all in one place. This is the perfect thing for my long beach vacation that is coming up. This case can be purchased at Ulta Beauty for $30. It comes in other colors as well. Tartan+Twine cosmetic cases are the perfect gift for your daughter, sister, mother, friend or even your favorite makeup artist or nail tech.

Check out all of the beautiful collections from Tartan+Twine on the web. Also, be sure to follow them on Instagram for updates on their latest items.

I received product samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 
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Hard Candy Brow Ink Review

I am sure by now most of you have seen the latest beauty trend-- eyebrow enhancing. Some use products to fill in thin brows while others take it to the extreme. I personally go for a polished look and prefer natural looking brows. I got my eyebrows threaded a few months ago and after the process was over, the technician applied a brow filler. I really loved the look because it was super natural yet slightly dramatic (if that makes sense). I have never used any eyebrow filler in my whole life, but since then, I've been intrigued.

I have been seeing ads for kits that go up to $50. No way. I refuse to invest that kind of cash into a basic product. Today I want to share a new product from Hard Candy called Brow Ink. It is actually a brow stain. No lie, the word stain scared me a bit.


This product comes in a fun, contemporary looking tube. It comes in 2 colors: 1108 Light Medium and 1004 Medium Dark. I tried the medium dark since I am a brunette. When you open it, you will find a long, slender wand with ultra fine bristles.


This Brow Ink comes in a gel formula and instantly darkens and defines your brows. It has Henna Fruit Actives that nourish hair while the Longwear Ink Technology transforms brows that stay in place for 24 hours and is waterproof. 

I found the product very easy to use and it really does what it supposed to. One tip I will offer is that you should not press down too much when you apply. You will end up with too much product in one spot. If that happens you can easily use your finger to blend it in. 


The end result is a fuller, natural brow look. It does not smudge at all and does not come off until you remove it. Want to hear the best part? It costs only $6 and can be purchased at Walmart and Walmart.com. I still can't believe how good it is considering the low price tag. Seriously, it is worth a try and I highly recommend you give it a shot. If you try it out, please let me know how it worked for you.

Be sure to check out Hard Candy at their website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for beauty tips and product updates.

I received product in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always.  
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Beauty Gifts For Mother's Day

Mother's Day falls on May 8th this year. There's still plenty of time to get the mothers in your life a nice gift. I'm a very practical gift giver and feel like you can never go wrong with the gift of beauty products. Below is a list of some ideas to help you find something that is just right for mom. 


1. KISS Salon Secrets Acrylic Nude Nails- These are perfect for moms who stay on-the-go. They can do their own nails quickly and effortlessly. You can't ever go wrong with a nude look. These are available at Walmart for only $7.99.

2. The NEW Instrumental Beauty Sonic Touch Cleansing System will instantly freshen and brighten your complexion with the unique micro-pulsating action combined with stimulating silicone-cleansing points.  The massaging action wakes up the skin, shakes off loose impurities and encourages healthy blood flow.  It feels SO good!

The dual silicone cleansing surfaces feature one side with fine cleansing points for extra gentle cleansing and the other side with broad cleansing points for deeper cleansing. No replacement brushes needed and it's waterproof. I LOVE this item and I keep it on the side of my shower for everyday use. You can find it at Rite Aid for $34.99.

3. Yardley London Soap- This is a name that has been around for a long time. These bars are perfect if you are looking for an affordable option to pair with the sonic touch system. They come in these scents: English Lavender,  Oatmeal & Almond, Lemon Verbena, Aloe & Cucumber, and Cocoa Butter. They cost around $1.59 each and can be found at most major drug stores and retailers.

4. CLEAN Reserve Six Piece Travel Spray Layering Collection - For the moms who loves fragrance and is very earth conscious, this set it perfect. Mom can wear these natural scents individually or layer to make her own signature fragrance. You can find this set at Sephora for $45.

5. Susan Posnick COLORFLO - Make sure your mom has flawless skin and is protected against the sun's rays with Susan Posnick COLORFLO mineral foundation in a self-dispensing brush that delivers invisible coverage so you don't feel it or see it and powerful, completely natural sun protection of SPF 26. It really gives your face a polished and natural look. It is available at SusanPosnick.com for $68 and there are refills available.

Make sure you don't forget any of the important moms in your life, and most importantly, don't forget yourself! 

I received product samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 

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Top Beauty Gift Ideas 2015 #HolidayGiftGuide

If you are looking for the perfect gifts for all the special women in your life, you're at the right place. I want to share some of my favorite beauty products from 2015 that are perfect to put under the tree, stuff in stockings or doing a gift exchange with a coworker, family member or friend.  Regardless of your budget, there is something for all the ladies on your holiday gift list. 



First up is lip color. Susan Posnick makes an amazing moisturizing lipstick called ColorEssential. These lipsticks glide on so smooth with rich color and luxurious moisture. This is one lip color that does not dry out my lips and stays put relatively well. I love the color collection named after big cities like: London, NYC, Milan and Rio. What makes this lip color so special is that they adapt to any lip color which means in my case is a plus being brown-skinned. They retail for $21 each and can be purchased at SusanPosnick.com

Next up for you lips is a product from Fusion Beauty called Lip Fusion. It is a Plump & Shine lipstick that comes in some gorgeous colors. I really love how well this lip color goes on and that little tingle you get that lets you know your lips will look full and plump. It has a really nice shine and is perfect for those date nights out on the town. These scream Holiday Lips! You can purchase them at FusionBeauty.com for $29. 


Do you have an eco-conscious friend or family member? CLEAN fragrances are a smart choice. Just the name "CLEAN" makes me feel good and I am sure the special ladies in my life will agree. These premium products stand behind their name, CLEAN- Simple, Nostalgic and Conscious. The packaging is very attractive and is sure to make any woman feel extra special. They comes in a nice variety of fragrances, but I especially love the CLEAN Rollerball Collection which includes 5 scents; each can be worn alone or layered for a new experience. Prices range from $18-$69 and can be purchases at CleanPerfume.com, Sephora and ULTA. 


For the women who are obsessed with keeping their skin in excellent condition, the Instrumental Beauty Sonic Facial Brush is a winner. You can check out my in-depth review here. The Instrumental Beauty Sonic Facial Brush can be purchased at select drugstores and at InstrumentalBeauty.com for $80.00 and the Yardley Nourishing Elements Soap can be found at drugstores nationwide for $4.99 for a 3-pack.


One of the best stocking stuffers for your teens has got to be related to nails. KISS Nails and Nail Art Kits are the perfect idea. Affordable, fun and easy-to-use, you just can't go wrong! There are so many color and design options to choose from. Now your teen can have a fabulous holiday manicure with minimal effort. KISS Nails are available at Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, Rite Aid, Kmart and other retailers.


This last item is one of my absolute favorite, must have beauty tools, the KISS InstaWave Automatic Curler. This curling heat tool is so easy to use and is perfect for anyone who desires gorgeous spiral curls or waves. Please check out my full review here. You can purchase the Instawave ($59.99) at KISSInstaWave.com or at retailers including: Target, Ulta.com and Amazon.com. It's a fabulous styling tool and I highly recommend it if you are currently looking for something great to curl your hair.

I received product samples in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 
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Fresh & Natural Make-up Looks for Moms from Susan Posnick Cosmetics

Spring is here and this is the time when I treat myself to a couple new items for my make-up bag. I am a minimalist for the most part when it comes to daytime make-up. I don’t believe in looking too “made up” unless I’m stepping out for the evening or going somewhere others will see me. Susan Posnick cosmetics seem to really fit the look I am aiming for; clean and polished. I have been using the Colorflo mineral foundation and blush, as well as the ColorCoated mascara and ColorEssentials Lipstick. I am currently into nude lip color and Susan Posnick’s ColorEssential Lipstick in Dubai (SRP $21) has become my go-to favorite. I wear it over my lip balm and find that it never dries my lips out the way some other premium brands can. It has a light sheen with a creamy finish.



The ColorCoated mascara (SRP $24) gives my eyelashes enough fullness for a brighter bolder look, while keeping them looking natural and soft. This is very important to me since I don’t care for that false lashes look in the daytime hours when I’m in Mom-mode.  I love how easy it is to remove at night and leaves little to no residue behind. I have not experienced any flaking, so this product would be great for contact lens wearers.

You can order Susan Posnick Cosmetics online and be sure to follow on Facebook and Twitter for product promotions and updates.

I received product samples for review purposes. All opinions are my own as always.
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The Hello Kitty Craze

You see the cute little whiskered face in almost every major store throughout the country and even across the world. It adorns clothing, lunch boxes, diaries, toothbrushes and bed sheets. It is even the theme for an entire hospital in Taiwan! Hello Kitty has become an international craze that continues to take the world by storm. Kids everywhere immediately recognize the unassuming round face and the familiar red ribbon that adorns this cute little cartoon cat.

What is the history of this little cat, and how did Hello Kitty toys become so popular throughout the world? Here is everything you could possibly want to know about Hello Kitty and her rise to fame.

Japanese Origins

Hello Kitty originated in Japan during the 1960’s when a Japanese company called Sanrio developed her character (which is actually known as Kitty White). Previous to selling Hello Kitty products, Sanrio primarily sold small items like pencil cases and other items for elementary-aged children. Once they developed the Hello Kitty character, their sales began to increase.

Rumors Abound Regarding Hello Kitty’s Origins

There are a couple of untrue legends circulating about how Hello Kitty actually originated. One story claims that the cute kitty was developed in an attempt to soften the corporate image of a nuclear power plant. Another story involves a fantastic claim that involves a truce with the devil to create a cute image in his honor in exchange for the healing of a young girl with cancer. Both stories are obviously false and the character was not created in any sinister way.

Emotionless Character

Hello Kitty was made without a mouth intentionally, because the lack of emotion made it more likely for people of all backgrounds to relate to her.  Because she does not seem to portray any emotions, the individual who views her can project their own emotions onto her at any time. It is this strange characteristic that may be part of the reason for her impressive international success.

Hello Kitty Almost Became a Punishment

Back in 2007, the idea was briefly entertained to force police in Bangkok to wear flashy Hello Kitty armbands if they committed minor infractions. This plan was quickly abandoned as it created outrage among both Hello Kitty fans and the Bangkok police ranks.

A Character That Kids and Adults Enjoy

While originally intended for children, Hello Kitty now adorns adult clothing and novelty items as well. Today you can buy Hello Kitty toys, Hello Kitty jewelry marketed to wealthy women, and Hello Kitty themed make up. While it may not be perfectly clear why this cute little emotionless character became so popular, it is clear that she is a character that is able to break through typical cultural, gender and age boundaries.
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Five Days of Fabulous Deals from Susan Posnick Cosmetics #ad

For a limited time only, you can purchase some of your favorite Susan Posnick items for a discounted price. Susan Posnick Cosmetics is offering an exclusive Five Days of Fabulous Deals! Sign-up to get the promotion codes every day from Thursday, November 27 until Monday, December 1 though http://eepurl.com/5baBv or on Facebook and unlock one of the special deals below.




Five Days of Fabulous Deals:

· BLACK FRIDAY DEAL: Free Mascara with every purchase
· Colorflo -- 30% off
· 50% off any color flo refill
· 20% off all orders
· Free Shipping & Limited Holiday Gift Pack Thru Dec or while supplies last. The gift pack is priced at $49.95 (over $70 value) and includes their new mascara, color eyedefine, and a mini tweezer in a signature Susan Posnick cosmetic bag.
I have been using Susan Posnick Cosmetics for months now and absolutely love each and every product I have. I recently tried the new ColorCoated Mascara and it delivered the results I anticipated. The actual wand/brush is very small compared to most mascaras I have used. It still helped to coat each and every lash and gave them a thick, full appearance. I have not experienced any clumping or irritation and love that they don't make my lashes look fake. The mascara removes easily with eye make-up remover. The mini tweezer is the best tweezer I have ever used. I can gently pluck my eyebrows and get a good, precise finish. That is money saved on waxing!

Susan Posnick Cosmetics is offering a FREE Mascara ($24.00) with any purchase. COLORCOATED Mascara is the newest addition to Susan Posnick Cosmetics! Not only does it enhance and lengthen your lashes, but it is gluten, paraben and cruelty-free. Go grab some of these deals while you can and Happy Holidays!

I received product samples for review and all opinions are my own as always.
 
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Susan Posnick Cosmetics keep me looking my best when I'm on-the-go #ad

School has been back in session for 2 weeks now and I feel like I am even busier with the kids gone. I have to really use my time wisely if I plan to get anything accomplished. It feels like my morning is 30 minutes long and I have to get myself together before I hit the carpool line. One thing I believe in strongly is always being put together and wearing just enough makeup to look polished. I received an assortment of products from Susan Posnick Cosmetics to test out. They are designed with busy women in mind and offer a convenient solution for a quick fix on-the-go including sun protection. It's as if these products had ME in mind!
These are the items I received as well as my personal thoughts--
Susan Posnick COLORFLO ($68.00 / SusanPosnick.com) is a luxurious mineral foundation with sun protection in a simple self-dispensing refillable brush that will not clog pores or irritate sensitive skin.  COLORFLO is available in 12 shades for every skin tone, plus the perfect Shimmer and the ideal Bronzer. I received the M9 color which is like a caramel. I was really afraid this would be too light for me. Turns out that it blends perfectly with my skin, even after my tan from the beach! I adore the all-in-one brush and really love the light, flawless coverage it provides. I can truly say that this is the quickest way to apply a mineral foundation. 

The multi-purpose Susan Posnick COLORME ($32.00 / SusanPosnick.com) provides lush color to cheeks, eyes, and anywhere else you desire a lush blush. This travel-friendly makeup comes in a self-dispensing post with a attached puff and mirror for easy application, anywhere. I received this one in the color, Camelia. It is a soft, shimmery pink that really showcased my tan skin. It adds very subtle color, while brightening my cheeks. I really love the ease of application and it really works nicely for days I don't have time to apply eye shadow. 

Easily go from day to night with Susan Posnick COLOREYEDEFINE ($26.00 / SusanPosnick.com), A slender pencil comprised of an angled liner think enought to define, yet soft enought to blend as a shadow. It includes a self-dispensing eye shadow that compliments the liner color. I received the platinum/gold shade. I was impressed with the coverage and wear this shadow provides. It lasts all day and blends easily. I think the liner color is too light. I would have really loved to try this in a brown or black. Overall, very convenient item to have in my bag. 

Susan Posnick COLORESSENTIAL ($21.00 / SusanPosnick.com) for a rich lip color, enhanced with olive oil and vitamins to keep lips moisturized. I received 2 shades in Dubai (nude) and Shanghai (soft pink). I love that their lip color shades are named after famous cities. I have used many premium lip colors in the past and these really are amazing. I found that they are very moisturizing last for hours. I usually have issues with these types of lipsticks drying my lips out, but not this time. I really do love how well the colors worked on my darker skin. The nude shade is my new favorite! 
I am very happy with all of the products I have received and get so many compliments on how gorgeous my makeup looks. I love that all of the colors blend so well with my complexion. I am usually leery of lighter colors, but every product worked out well. I intend to purchase the refill of the COLORFLO foundation and also some of the red/brown shades of COLORESSENTIAL Lipsticks. I can have a complete, natural makeup look in under 5 minutes. I love that all of the products are easy to stash in my cosmetic bag that can go with me. This will make packing for trips a whole lot easier.
Check out Susan Posnick Cosmetics on their website and connect on Facebook and Twitter for products promotions and updates.

I received complimentary cosmetics in exchange for an honest review. As always, all opinions are my own. 
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Influenster #SpringVoxBox 2014

I'm so happy that I qualified to receive the Influenster Spring Vox Box for review. I don't think I have ever gotten a bad box from them. This box was pretty impressive. 
This Vox Box contained:
Rimmel London Scandaleyes Retro Glam Mascara ($5.99)-  This mascara is supposed to make your lashes look thicker, fuller with fanned out volume without clumps. I was very impressed that a low cost mascara really came through. I love the very wide applicator brush. I won't say that it is 100% clump-free, but if you apply it carefully, it will give you an almost perfect look. It comes off easily with my make-up remover wipes and leaves no residue behind. I will be purchasing this in the future.

Kiss Everlasting French Nails ($6.49)- My 17 year old daughter will be putting these to good use. I have a feeling they will be perfect for her. They have a shorter length which will give a more natural look.

Peach Pie car freshener from the movie Labor Day. It was so cute, but not really scented at all.

Playtex Sport Fresh Balance tampons ($3.99- $4.99) This is a great product. I have tried them and they do what they are supposed to do. I don't normally use scented feminine hygiene products, but these are the exception. I didn't experience any issue with it at all. Great product by Playtex.

NIVEA Skin Firming Hydrating Lotion ($2.40 for 2.5 oz/$10.99 for 13.5 oz) I love the way this lotion felt when I applied it. I just couldn't get past the very strong fragrance. It was too powdery scented and really turned me off. I wish this lotion was unscented. I would love to try that!

Overall, my favorite item is the Scandaleyes mascara. I just love how my eyelashes look and can't believe what a good value it is. I highly recommend it!

Big thanks to Influenster for another great beauty box. I look forward to receiving the next one.
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