Healing Food To Fight Off Your Cold!

 Photo courtesy of The Happy Pear

This is a great article from The Happy Pear Natural Food Market. Read it here: http://www.thehappypear.ie/archives/1541.

 

Did you know certain foods can also keep your skin hydrated AND help combat signs of aging? For instance, cucumbers have been known to reduce puffy eyes by firming the delicate skin around the eye area, helping to soothe and reduce fine lines. Try the Youth Boost Eye Firming Gel priced at $29.

Coconut and Grape seed oil can help nourish and hydrate dull or dry skin. Try the Ocean Seaweed Hydrating Mask, formulated with fruit oils to clean your face deep down to remove dirt, oil, and impurities that build up over time. Price: $45.

Fruit extracts from grapes, kiwi, strawberries, and apples can help restore moisture to the skin, which helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The Herbal Infusion Age Rewind Serum is packed solid with these extracts, along with other vitamins and natural products. Price: $34.

Ultra-Cool, Long-Lasting, All in One, Lip and Cheek Stain

benetint Rose-tinted lip and cheek stain from Benefit Cosmetics. 
Product Description: Originally created for an exotic dancer in the 1970s, benetint has soared to cult fave status. It's loved by celebs, makeup artists and gals around the world. It's the sexiest flush you can get from a bottle! The original rose-tinted stain is kiss-proof, see-through color for lips & cheeks that lasts for hours. Naturally sheer & sexy on all complexions...it’s innocent yet provocative. Price: $29.

A Healthy, Yummy Lasagna Recipe - Black Bean Lasagna

Ingredients:

2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 cups chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery
1 1/2 cups chopped green pepper
1 1/2 cups chopped red bell pepper
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can diced tomato
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
2 cans black beans, drained
4 Tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 8oz. container cream cheese
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 16oz. bottle salsa
12 no-boil lasagna noodles
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375F.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add onion, celery, peppers and garlic. Saute 5 minutes.

Add tomato, cumin, coriander and cook 3-4 minutes.

Add beans and cook another 3 minutes.

Remove from heat and cool slightly. Stir in cilantro, cream cheese and eggs.

Spread 4 Tablespoons salsa in bottom of 13x9 pan lightly oil. Arrange 4 noodles, overlapping slightly over salsa and top with half the bean mixture, 1/2 cup cheese and 4 Tablespoons salsa.

Repeat layers, ending with noodles. Spread remaining salsa over noodles and sprinkle some cheese.

Cover and bake at 375F for about 40 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10-15 minutes or until cheese melted.
Courtesy of Citron Limette

Wedding Dresses That Wow!

It's amazing how a few pieces of fabric can be turned into a beautiful wedding dress. Here are some beauteous handmade dresses worth highlighting. From traditional to all the rage, short to long, you can find these dresses priced nicely on Etsy from TheLittleWhiteDress. Enjoy!

First up is Lory. Details: Lory is made of hundreds of tulle squares in various sizes, hand cut and hand sewn one by one, sweetheart neckline and a ruched bodice that flatters every figure. Bodice has multiple bonings, which will give you the perfect fit and support. Corset closure, functional yet beautiful. Dress available in white, off white/soft ivory and ivory. price: $448.

FAVORITE PICK ALERT! This is Cotton Candy. It's listed as a dress for any occasion, but imaging this as your wedding dress! Very elegant. Details: Dress available in white, off white, ivory, baby pink. Neckline can be straight-across or sweetheart. The skirt part is made from over 10 yards of tulle. Each piece of tulle was cut and sewn by hand to create that magical fullness. Photo shown in baby pink. Price: $269.

Next up is Kate. Details: This design is available in White, Off White/Soft Ivory and Ivory. (Other colors may be requested) Dress is fully lined. Top is padded so bra optional. Zipper Closure with covered buttons on top (can be replace with a lace-up corset closure). The best part...it has HIDDEN POCKETS on both sides! Price: $628.

Last is Aria, and WOW to organza! Details: Aria sparkles like a star. The entire bodice was handed beaded, one by one. The entire skirt part is made from over 10 yards of frosted organza. Every pick-up detail is done by hand stitching. It literally looks and feels like clouds. Dress is fully lined. Top is padded (so you don't have to worry about purchasing a bustier). Lace-up corset back (this style of closure will you complete peace of mind, the dress will fit like gloves and you don't have to worry about pull it up the entire day). Price: $699.

Make-up trends from A-list celebs

Get the latest looks in eye makeup, from natural bronze to bright eyed beauties, check out what the leading ladies are doing to enhance their natural beauty.

Sporting a bright burnt orange eyeshadow, Scarlett Johansson looks ultra-hot. To really make a bright shade work on your eyes, it's better to keep the rest of your face makeup at a neutral color. To get this look, use MAC Cosmetics Burnt Orange Matte Eyeshadow. $15.

Katy Perry’s bold blue eye make-up works with a deep sea blue below the lower lash line and an aqua on the upper eye lid area. To get this look, use MAC Cosmetics Jeanius Eyeshadow in motorhead. $19.50

Go green, that is, mint green...Vanessa Hudgens uses a light minty green to highlight her skin tone and eye color. To get this look, use MAC Cosmetics Swimming Eyeshadow. $15.

Who doesn't like a little sparkle? Sara Jessica Parker uses a silver sparkling shadow with a light grey hue. To get this look, use MAC Cosmetics Silver Ring Eyeshadow. $15.

JLO takes bronzer to the ultimate with a touch of it swept from the apple of her cheek upward into the hairline. This is great for sculpting and highlighting bold facial features. To get this look, use MAC Cosmetics Bronzing Powder. $24.

Handmade, eco-friendly slippers that rock!

From Wooly Baby on etsy, find your perfect slipper. Self described as handmade, soft and warm, with non-slip leather soles, you can choose from a variety of colors and styles made for babies, toddlers, kiddies, ladies, and even men! Featured above are the Wool House Slippers for Men & Women priced at $60. The verdict? An affordable, comfortable fit for all.

Your skin deserves a healthy, radiant glow.

The daily use of a toner can help generate smoother, softer-feeling skin, and at the same time, leave your skin looking flawless. Revitalize and refresh after cleansing with a formulation designed to even out the most unbalanced skin types. This dual-action toner works simultaneously to gently eliminate excess oil and add moisture to dry spots, leaving an even, more balanced skin texture over time. Try JLU Skincare's Clarifying Facial Infusion, priced at $15.

Stay Warm in Style!

Who says you can't be warm and stylish? Whether it's used as an accessory or just to keep warm, this scarf will be the perfect companion for the cooler months. It's called the Infinity Noodle Scarf by Ttereve on etsy. As described online, here are the details: colors - raspberry & chocolate; wear as a scarf, cowl, or fabric necklace; wrap individual strands around your wrist for a cuff bracelet; individual strands allow for total styling freedom; seamless 100% cotton jersey; approx 34'' length (68'' circumference). Priced nicely at $24.

A Super Fruit Serum That Really Works!

(photo credit Getty Images)
Serums are beneficial in helping to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and restore moisture. You can add an extra kick to your serum routine by choosing one that is made with super fruits (apples, strawberries, kiwi, grapefruit). Super fruits are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and other nutrients that can help keep your skin looking and feeling super healthy. This way you're using a natural combination of AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) that work by exfoliating the top layer of skin, allowing newer, healthier skin cells to appear. AHA's can also help stimulate the production of collagen and enhance the appearance of sun damage skin. Featured below is the Age Rewind Herbal Resurfacing Serum, designed to gently resurface your skin, while restoring moisture and firmness. Price: $34. You will also receive a coupon for 25% off your next purchase.

Polish Away Those Winter Blues with This Year's Coolest Nail Trends

Remember when nail polish was just about picking a color? It was hard enough to decide What shade of red or pink works best. As if choosing what COLOR works best wasn't hard enough, we're now faced with choosing what TYPE to use. Will it be crackle, glitter,or glass fleck? Should the finish be glossy, mate, or a shimmery metallic? What about quick drying, growth enhancing, or long lasting? The list goes on. Below is a breakdown of this winter's top nail polish colors and trends. Also, check out tips from divine caroline, lacquerized.com, and read about how to apply those special effects like crackle from http://www.trendincosmetics.com/how-to-apply-crackle-nail-polish/.

 

Chanel 483 is first pick, following with 559, 561, and 563.

 

Estee Lauder Pure Crystal Nail Polish Red Series.

Daytime Friendly Makeup Looks

From Erin Ashley, bronzy plum day look-request. Soft, yet sexy.

From Marie Loves, Khloe Kardashian Daytime Make Up Look Recreated. Well done!

From Beauty Snob, Daytime Makeup in 6 Easy Steps!

The Truth About False Eyelashes

Yes, you can absolutely reuse them! Erin Ashley does a great job explaining how here: http://erinashleymakeup.com/reuse-your-fake-eyelashes/

Problem: Dry, dull-looking skin
Solution: JLU Skincare Facial Mask

Buy now and receive a coupon for 25% off your next purchase.
FREE Shipping on orders over $50.
Clean your face deep down to remove dirt, oil, and impurities that build up over time. Illuminate your complexion with a brighter skin tone, help clear up acne, and tighten your skin so pores become noticeably smaller. For fresher, smoother looking skin, apply a mask treatment 1 to 2 times a week after cleansing. Featured here are the French Clay Micro Scrub and the Ocean Seaweed Hydrating Mask. Price: $45.

Family Birthstone Jewelry - Great gift idea!

 

If you're looking for any type of family birthstone jewelry, check out Mu-Yin Jewelry on etsy. You can find really cool earrings, bracelets, necklaces and more. Featured here are custom mothers birthstone necklace FAMILY NEST - 4 stones, sterling silver.

On the subject of leg warmers...

Check out Catherine Cole Studio knit ribbed lace leg warmers, calf fit, 3 wood buttons, ivory or chocolate. Very cute!

Leg Warmers - Combine Fashion AND Function

Remember leg warmers from the 80's? Jane Fonda was famous for her aerobic moves that featured stylish leotards and leg warmers. Anyone who had any small sense of style had at least 10 pairs of leg warmers. Sure leg warmers were around in the 70's. They were originally worn for function, not fashion. Fast forward to the 1980's with movies like Flashdance and Fame, where every dancer wore them. Leg warmers went with everything - jeans, shorts, dresses, skirts, pants, sneakers, and, yes, even high heels. As with most fads, leg warmers eventually faded and other fashion trends took over. Until now...

Check out this etsy shop, ForYouDesign, that specializes in handmade clothing and accessories, like knitted and crocheted scarves, shawls, hats, gloves and swimsuits in many different styles and sizes. The best part? There's an entire section dedicated to 16 different types of leg warmers! Happy shopping, and stay warm in style!

A timeless wedding look - the netted veil

Remember the veil Reese Witherspoon rocked in Sweet Home Alabama? A blend of retro and sophisticated, and definitely back in style. You can buy yours through Fashionplate on etsy. If you have time, browse their store, where you'll find a blend of timeless, retro items. Well done!

Goodbye to wrinkles!

Wrinkles - one of the effects of aging. As the skin ages, natural proteins, called collagen and elastin, begin to break down, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity in the skin. The skin is made up of three layers:
The outermost layer, the epidermis
The middle layer, the dermis
The innermost layer, the subcutaneous layer 

What causes wrinkles? Well, the dermis has an elastic quality (elastin) that helps keep the skin looking young. A protein called collagen, found in the dermis, also helps prevent wrinkles. As we age, the dermis loses both elastin and collagen, and the skin begins to appear thinner. Meanwhile, underneath it all, the subcutaneous layer begins to fade away, and the epidermis begins to droop (sag), forming wrinkles. There are a variety of products that can help stimulate cell growth and increase collagen production. 

If you're looking to diminish lines, firm and restore, try this Ultra-Refining Miracle Moisturizer. An effective blend of Retinol and antioxidants make this the moisturizer of choice for diminishing fine lines and restoring elasticity and firmness.

To combat deeper wrinkles, use the Age Rewind Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream. This is formulated especially for mature skin types. A combination of anti-oxidants, moisture rich lipids, and superior nutritive and skin softening ingredients replenish moisture to dry, dehydrated skin.

For the eye area, apply a small amount of Youth Boost Eye Firming Gel, formulated with an effective peptide enriched gel that soothes, firms, brightens, and restores elasticity around the eye area.

Remember, it's never too early to treat wrinkles and lines. Keep your skin properly hydrated by applying a moisturizer after each cleanse and always wear sunscreen.

Wedding dress feature: Eco friendly wedding dress gown organic cotton bamboo velour by econica. 

Since we're on the subject of weddings, it's only fitting to feature a dress. Stunning AND eco-friendly, this gown of choice is bamboo velour in ivory. Simply divine! See it here.

Winter Wedding Trend: Hot Pink!

If you're having a fall or winter wedding, consider integrating little pops of hot pink into your wedding day make up look. Bright pinks can range all the way from cool to warm, so make sure you try a few options with a white top on (assuming your gown is white). Here are some wedding makeup ideas to help you rock hot pink on your special day. Plus, see how some of the famous gals are stepping out in hot pink.

Clockwise: Emma Stone wearing a fuchsia lipstick at the Met Gala, Jennifer Hudson rocks a shimmering shade of pink lips, Taylor Swift wears shades of pink, which is a break from her normally bright red lips, Selena Gomez wows the crowd with pink nails and subtle shades of pink makeup.

Eye Shadow: Sushi Flower from MAC. Pinky-coral with pink shimmer (satin) $12.

Lip Gloss: Revlon ColorBurst Lipgloss - Pink Ice $6.49

Blush: Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush $7.99

Jessica Simpson Shoes: Fun Shoes at a Great Price

I "borrowed" this blog title from shoeblog.com. Why? Because it's exactly the reason why I'm excited to share my shoe obsession with you. Why again? The answer is simple. Nowhere else can I find a comfortable size 5 1/2, 3-4 inch heel, in virtually any color and style...here's the kicker...at an affordable price! From simple to sophisticated, boots to night out on the town heels, the shoe you want is ready and waiting. Take a peek and let me know if I'm right or if I'm right.

We had a great response to this article (below) for the Orange & Aloe Calming Facial Cleanser. Made with natural and organic ingredients, this cleanser is extremely gentle, yet cleans deep down into the pores where dirt can often stay trapped. If you like the results of the cleanser, add in a mask, one or two times a week. Recommended is the French Clay Micro Scrub. As the label describes, the mask is made with a type of brown clay that exfoliates, removing dead skin and bringing out the skin's natural smooth texture. Items are sold at jluskincare.com, with free shipping on orders over $50. 

Article:

Wedding Makeup Tips

Look your best for the big day with these easy to follow tips.

First thing's first. make sure you start with a clean face (Orange & Aloe Calming Facial Cleanser by JLU Skincare). Use a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type. A great all in one is Ultra-Lite Gentle Moisturizer, also by JLU.

These are great tips for a natural, and glamorous look on your wedding day. YES, it is possible to be both natural looking, and have a blend of glam added to the mix.

Start with a concealer to hide imperfections, but don't over do it (Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer). As always, less is more. Skip the heavy foundation and go straight to a powder, preferably a mineral powder (Maybelline MINERAL POWER™ Powder Foundation). Apply with a brush in a circular motion so it blends into the skin naturally. Add a natural flush to your cheeks by applying a warm color in a circular motion with fingers, and highlight the top of your cheekbone with a lighter shade of pink (Philosophy Supernatural Lit from Within Cream Blush). 

Eye shadow is meant to accentuate your eye shape and color, not overpower them. For a fall or winter wedding, use neutral tones. During the spring and summer, use pastels. Start by dabbing white shadow in the inside corner of the eye, center of the eye, and just below the brow (brow bone) for highlights (CoverGirl Eye Enhancers in Champagne). Next, apply your darkest shade to the crease of the eye, following it up with the lighter shades around it, blending the two colors together.

Give your eyes definition by using either an eye pencil in brown (Bobbi's Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner - yes, it promises to stay put for 12 hours!), or a waterproof liquid eye liner in brown. Create a thin line on both upper and lower lids, or, for an even more natural look, just apply to the upper lid.

Mascara is a must (Cover Girl Lash Blast). I must confess, I always was, still am, and forever will be a Cover Girl Mascara junkie! Prove me wrong, but, in my eyes - get it? eyes? - there is no comparison. You can leave out the eyes shadow and the liner, but NEVER the mascara. Apply two coats of black or dark brown waterproof mascara to the top, and one coat to the bottom. 

Try to find a lip color that is long lasting, like Essence Stay With Me Long-Lasting Lipgloss, shade: Me & My Ice Cream 01. For a more subtle look, pick a shade that almost matches your lips. For a more defined look, first line your lips with a shade that matches your natural lips the closest. Then, choose a shade that is either two shades lighter or darker, depending on your skin tone. The darker your skin tone, the darker the shade, and vice versa.

Remember, your ultimate goal is to bring out your best features. Keep it as simple as possible, and don't over use your products. Don't stress, and good luck my pretties!

Celebrity Look for Less

Trending now by courtesy of Kelly Ripa and Ms. Kim K herself, is a white gold and diamond evil eye bracelet by Sydney Evan, jeweler to the stars. The price you ask? Only a whopping $1,050.00. Cha-ching! Lucky for the penny pinchers, you can find this look for a lot less through Theresa Mink of Classic Designs at Etsy. If you aren't familiar, allow me to give Theresa props for making top quality, ultra-trendy, must have now items such as this.

To quote Theresa directly from her Etsy store, the details of this celebrity steal go like this: Sterling Silver 9x14mm bezeled Murano glass eye that is surrounded by sparkly prong set, pave, Swarovski Crystals. The eye is double sided so that if it flips it looks just as good. One side has the crystals and the other is plain shiny Silver. It has a sturdy Sterling Silver rolo chain that is made to handle the wear that a bracelet is subject to. The chain can be attached at 6 3/4" or at 7 1/2", ( I can make it up to 8" at no extra charge - just leave a message at check out). I attached a 5mm sparkly Cubic Zirconia that is bezel set in Sterling Silver, a 2mm Turquoise bead, and a 'Theresa Mink' signature tag below the lobster clasp to give interest to the back side.

Well done Theresa, as always! To keep up with (no pun intended) current celebrity looks like this one, subscribe via this post.

Quick and Tasty Gluten-Free Recipes

 

If you frequent the super market, you may have noticed recently that more and more products are being labeled as "gluten-free". It seems as if almost every aisle is shelved with foods having a "gluten-free" claim. Next time you are at a restaurant, take a look at the menu and see if there is a selection of gluten-free meals available. If you have ever dined with someone who has an intolerance to gluten, you may have heard them grill the server about items on the menu. So what exactly does gluten-free mean?

Good question. If you don't have a gluten intolerance such as a wheat allergy, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or celiac disease, you might not know just exactly what the term actually means. Gluten is a composite formed from several different proteins. Gluten is usually the main ingredient in grain-based products like breads and pastries, and is used in a variety of other foods as a flavor enhancer, binder/thickener, and protein supplement. Some common foods that contain gluten are pasta, sauces, bread, cookies and cakes, muffins and pastries, cereal, and crackers. However, there are other foods that you would not think contain gluten, but do, such as hot dogs, pickles, soy sauce, pudding, blue cheese,salad dressing, gravy powder, boxed soup, and even beer.

Whether you have an intolerance to gluten, or are simply avoiding gluten for dietary reasons, there is a growing selection of delicious recipes that do not contain gluten. You can read all about them on the gluten-free goddess blog. Pick one or two, enjoy and do remember to pop back and share your thoughts!

Help Support National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Think Pink in October.

By now, so many people and companies are pitching in one way or another during the month of October to help support Breast Cancer Awareness. The one who caught my eye in particular is WWE wrestling superstar, John Cena. When I tuned in with the fam to watch Monday Night Raw on September 16, 2012, it was none other than John Cena himself who debuted his new pink attire in recognition of breast cancer awareness at the Night of Champions pay-per-view event in Boston, Massachusetts. Straying from his usual green cap and t-shirt, with popular slogans like "you can't see (the letter c crossed out) me", and "rise above bullying", Cena is bearing a black "Rise Above Cancer" T-Shirt with a pink logo, a pink "Rise Above Cancer" cap, and a pink arm band.

One might think this as an unlikely source for support, however, according to Yahoo Finance, approximately five million women - more female viewers than the top rated shows on women’s networks - watch WWE’s weekly programming.

Fans can purchase the merchandise, including co-branded hats, t-shirts, headbands and wristbands, at live events and online at WWEShop.com. The WWE will donate 100 percent of its profits (at least 30 percent of the retail purchase price) to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

A great video on how to get wavy hair with volume

Dozen bake shop Daily Cupcake Menu

A full service bakery and cafe with 2 locations: Lower Lawrenceville near the Strip, and Oakland near the Carnegie Museum. Scroll to the bottom and check out their cupcake menu. Pretty tasty! http://dozenbakeshop.com/menu/

 

It's only fitting to start this blog off with a hometown favorite, and by popularity, the best chocolate makers around! If you haven't experienced chocolate, candy, ice cream...just to name a few...from Sarris, add it to your list of things to do ASAP. Here's a link to their products. Enjoy!