Halloween is just around the Corner

     

     Halloween is here! Some of my neighbors have decorated there houses already. This year my neighbors will go all out since we have more kids in the neighborhood compared to the previous years. Yes, we're participating since baby will be coming anytime soon. We usually go down to San Diego to go Trick or Treating with our nephew but this year we're opting to stay home. I'm almost done with my Halloween treats for our kids in the neighborhood. I just need to stock up with some more candies for Halloween day itself. I might put up all decorations too. I just love Halloween and decorating the house for any holidays. I hope baby will be out to celebrate his first Halloween.

CoLD FeeT

     So boyfriend took me out for my daily walk in our nearby outdoor mall. I was able to convince him to drop me off ULTA. So upon arriving I went straight to O.P.I. section. I found O.P.I Red and Big Apple Red. They were 2 bottles left for each color. I was debating which red shade I really like. I eventually decided on Big Apple Red. I was also looking at the blues and another color I like which was Tickle my France-y. However after staying there for a couple of minutes. I returned the bottle in the rack and walked away. Yes, I had cold feet buying another nail polish. I just ordered on-line a bottle of O.P.I. Muppets Collection Warm and Fozzie and I bought from Sephora a red nail polish as well. I have 5-6 nail polish bottles I still have to use. I think I should be good. I was not desperate to have those colors since the shades I want are not limited editions. Now I'm thinking I'll ask those colors for Christmas and for my birthday next year. I might end up getting all the colors before I know it.

      I'm just loving nail polish lately.

  -----<<<<@

     On another note I was so excited to find this blog regarding reviving old and dried up nail polish. It was so nice to know that they really don't expire. Now I can breath easily and know that I can use all my nail polish for a long time. 

http://www.scrangie.com/2008/12/restoring-polish-quite-possibly-most.html

PaTienTly WaiTinG For OuR LiTtLe One

 

     Pregnancy can never be predictable. First few months of my pregnancy I had real bad morning sickness that sent me to hospital trips for IV hydration and continuous pregnancy disability leave. Barely mid-pregnancy I started having premature contraction giving us a Preterm labor scare and permanently sending me to disability leave and eventually losing my position at work and now I'm on my 39th week and no sign of delivering the baby yet. I 'm due this Sunday October 16, 2011 and I'm wondering if my baby will come on time. I know 6 more days but I'm just excited to hold my firstborn and finally see God's miracle. Our whole family can't wait to meet him too. So for now even if I'm busy researching about nail polish, I'm just patiently waiting for my little prince to make his debut. I hope he comes soon.

   

I'm OPI obsessed!

     I been using nail polish but mostly on my toenails (because my line of work discourages fingernail polish as much as possible) but for some reason after my make up addiction or hoarding or whatsoever, I just got into nail polish but this time for my fingernails too. I know, I know I'm pregnant and all but I've read mixed opinions but pretty much it's safe to use it as long as you don't inhale the polish itself. 

     So once again I'm an ULTA frequent shopper because they are the only one in our area selling my choice of nail polish brand O.P.I.. I'm not a brand snob, I have tried Salley Hansen, NYC and Hard Candy. Those brand are cheaper and deliver good color but when I bought my first O.P.I which is Planks a Lot, I just fell in love with it's color, consistency and how easy it is to apply. I have started a small collection and I still want some more. Nail polish hoarding I guess but I just can't be content if I don't have all the basic colors. This one is so hard to do though. Right now I only want to buy O.P.I Red which is a very classic red shade but since I love purple and rose pink colors I want to find the other shade I want as well even if I have a couple of pinks and purple already. This will be indeed very hard but I know I should stop it. Because once the baby comes, I'll be lucky if I can still paint my nails lol. But maybe one more trip to ULTA and I'll be contented. Wish me Luck!

Bare Escentuals

      

      My new found love. I've been using MAC Studio Fix Foundation and concealer for long time now and I've been very pleased with its coverage. However I wanted to venture out and try another alternative makeup line which will be easily accessible in case I ran out of my MAC products. The nearest MAC store isn't that far but it's still a 20 minutes drive and once baby is out I don't want to drag my child just to get one. Since ULTA is much closer I did some research and checked out the products they have that will be a good alternative.

     I've been hearing good reviews and rave about Bare Escentuals Bare Minerals. I was hesitant at first knowing my skin is very sensitive. I was scared of breakouts but I still took the risk and bought their foundation. The foundation was wonderful in just few days I noticed that my skin was even getting better. For some reason I find it more glowing and I had no break outs. From foundation I went on my BE shopping spree. I think I spent over $115 for all the products. I got their small 30 day started kit and eventually bought Mineral Veil, Multi tasking Summer Beige, Handy Kabuki brush and lip gloss. 

    So far I'm impressed with all the complexion products. It may seem that I'm putting too much makeup in my face since all of the products are in powder form but it's been really really light on the skin. The Multi-tasking summer beige does not only have SPF but provides a good coverage as a concealer from dark under eyes and old acne scars and the Mineral Veil has given me an oil free face. My skin is dry and oily combination and I've always had issue with oiliness in my t-zone but since I used mineral veil, I never had the same issue. I've been using NYC smooth pressed powder which also helps control the shine but mineral veil works much better. The brushes are so smooth and soft on the skin. I also have the small full flawless brush which came with the starter kit. I'm just in love with this products. I still alternate BE and MAC depending on my moods and time. But I've been using BE more often now.

     However as much as I love the complexion products of BE, I'm still trying to like their lip gloss. The pigmentation is just ok, the scent and taste islike sweet dessert however I really wish it's more moisturizing and lasting power is longer. I expected more since it cost $15 dollars but I have an on and off relationship with it. In order for it to work for me I have to use Bigelow Mentha Lip Tint as base to moisturize my lips or top it off with Naturally Nude L'oreal Le gloss lip gloss to keep my lips moisturized all day. I wanted to love this because it's a mineral lip gloss and they have good color choices but I think I will just try to finish this one and will not repurchase for sure.

My new BFF's

     I've been through a lot since I got pregnant. First was my bout with hyperemesis gravidanum which I suffered for almost 4 months and recently it's back once again. Then came my premature contractions and shortening of cervix which led me to being ordered for bed rest (which I have to over come once in awhile because when bf is traveling I still have to do grocery and other errands) and when my 32 week of pregnancy I had PUPPP or Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy. 

     It wasn't the best experience at all. It all happened too when the temperature here in California was going on 3 digits high and our air condition broke down. Good thing bf was very good in fixing stuffs and he was able to repair it in 2 days but I had to suffer from itching, scratching and discomfort.

     But there are 3 products that provides me with some relief and which I'm still using since PUPPP is still active and as describe will only subside once I give birth.

     Thank God for Sarna and it's maker. An anti-itch lotion recommended by a mommy friend who had the same experience. This lotion is steroid free, good for sensitive skin, non-greasy and fragrance free as well.  I tried the Aveeno Skin relief lotion but it was just too thick for me and I just couldn't stand it although I like the minty feeling it leaves your skin.

     Aveeno Skin Relief Body wash. It's been recommended by my OB and by all the PUPPP sufferers The oatmeal ingredients helps a bit, although I still take like 2-3 bath a day to be relieved from itchiness. 

     Yardley London Oatmeal and Almond soap. How I wish I was back home in the Philippines where I can buy all my trusted oatmeal soaps. I was in search of just a plain oatmeal soap but I was having a hard time finding in my area until I saw this in CVS. It was less than $5 so I took the risk and bought it. It also provides temporary relief like the Aveeno body wash and I do prefer this one because the oatmeal bits really helped exfoliate my drying skin. I've been using this more than the body wash.

     Other than this 3 products 2 other things have helped me get through my PUPPP bouts. Cold shower and ice.

Busy Bee

     It's been more than a month since I last blogged. Oh dear!!! Been a busy bee. Been preparing for the baby shower, cleaning the house (mostly bf is doing the cleaning, I'm just the moral support since I'm getting heavier each day) and dealing with my pregnancy nemesis called morning sickness or should I say all day sickness. 

     But even if I've been busy I still found time shopping for makeups and other beauty essentials. I don't know if it's hormones or I'm just stocking up before my little prince comes. 

     I should be on a budget since I'm not working (but I'm saving believe me or not) but I just couldn't resist shopping. Some of my shopping were on sale especially the clothes and some on regular price. I think after this month it will be more baby time and spending than mommy time. Oh I shouldn't forget that I was shopping for the little one too. 

    I think I'm almost done with my shopping except for replacing my MAC concealer which could wait since I have my Bare Escentuals Multi-tasking summer beige and a few nail polish I have on the list. Yes that's my latest love right now nail polish. 

     But we'll see, we'll see. Knowing me I'll probably end up having it before October comes LOL. I'm trying to convince myself that I can always ask it as a Christmas gift but sometimes I just couldn't resist. Only thing that stops me right now is I barely fit the car, me waddling like a duck when I walk, warm or hot weather and the "I don't want to spend that much anymore" guilt feeling. I'm just really hoping that I'll be able to use all the products I got when the baby comes.

Pregnancy during Summer Time

      I love being pregnant. I love it more when I have no complications or any pregnancy symptoms. However I'm not a big fan of pregnancy during summer time. A sunny day makes me smile and brightens up my mood but the burning heat is my enemy. Too much heat adds up as a factor that causes dehydration, causes you to sweat a lot than usual and makes you tired just by walking under the heat. Going to the beach and parks sounds like a wonderful idea for recreation and encourages you to walk, enjoy the view and do some exercises, but since I'm asthmatic just thinking about the heat and temperature discourages me. I prefer staying inside the house with aircondition on and a fan in front of me and just watch tv or sleep. Lesser effort than battling the heat. However there are few reasons too why I love being pregnant during summer.  You don't have to layer your clothes to warm yourself up. You can wear all those cute dresses that allows you to move freely or wear shorts or skirts without worrying you'll get cold even at night time. Flip flops, slip-ons and sandals are your perfect footwear especially with those swelling feet. Lastly if you don't have any gestational diabetes you can enjoy ice cold drinks, yummy ice cream and frozen yogurts.

     But whether I love the temperature or not, one thing is for sure.I love being pregnant and I'll be willing to be pregnant at any given time or season.

     

MAC Lipstick and its DruGstore Dupes

   

     If you love MAC lipsticks but you don't want to spend a fortune, don't have a budget or just darn cheap. Here is a list of some MAC lipstick and its drugstore dupes.

• MAC Craving - Maybelline Rose Berry or Party Pink
• MAC Fanfare - NYX Tea Rose
• MAC Angel - ELF Classy
• MAC Creme Cup - Maybelline Born with it or Pink Please
• MAC Shy girl - REVLON Smooth Nude
• MAC Speed dial - REVLON Color burst in Carnation
• MAC Half and half - NYX Perfect
• MAC Jubilee - NYX Pumpkin Pie
• MAC Viva Glam II - L'oreal Fairest Nude
• MAC Viva Glam V - Rimmel Sunset
     
  
  
  
  
  
  And another MAC lip product dupe

• MAC Tinted Lip Conditioner - L'oreal Jelly Lip Balm (not sure about the shades but the purpose of the product is pretty much the same)

     

     I know there is still a lot of MAC Dupes out there. I suggest you check out youtube to see the video comparison and swatches.  

     Next time I pass by my local drugstore I will definetly check out the drugstore dupes.

Lip Product Wish List

     I might be done with my makeup haul for now but I'm not stopping making a wish list. I pretty much contented with my eyeshadow and blush/bronzer collection. Since I prefer natural and little makeup look I prefer to make a wish list for lipstick and lip products. I'll be reserving the following for the next following year or when it's time to throw out expiring lip products. A couple of this wish list are from MAC. I'm not planning to spend a fortune to get it. I'll get it using MAC's recycle return policy and this makes me excited. But if someone will give me gift card for MAC, I might buy a ViVa La Glam shade since those shades are not part of the freebie list.

Lipsticks

• MAC Fanfare
• MAC Half and Half
• MAC Jubilee
• MAC Viva Glam II
• MAC Viva Glam IV
• Rimmel Cherrylicious
• Wet and Wild Moody Mauve
• ELF Seductive
• Revlon Soft Nude 

 Lip Products

• MAC Tinted lip conditioner in Petting Pink
• L'Oreal Paris Hip Jelly Balm in Delectable or Plush

Additional wishes 08/06/2011

• Revlon Matte Mauve It Over
• Revlon Peach
• Rimmel Shimmering Beige
• NYX Pumpkin Pie
• NYX Milan
  

Latest haul and review

     Hoping this will be my final cosmetic haul for the rest of the month. I'm pretty much stocked for the rest of the year, next year and if I follow the makeup expiration guideline, it's still good for the following year too.. For some reason I just keep shopping for makeups during summer time, when I can't even wear a full makeup due to the heat. The only good thing about that is I'm shopping drugstore (DS) brands (ELF, Wet n Wild, Rimmel, NYC and Physicians formula). The only high end (HE) purchase I bought is my MAC Studio Fix. That's the only makeup staple that I can't and would not change for any DS brand. I just love it and just perfect for my skin.

     So let me start with my latest haul which I just purchased today.

1)      ELF "Classy" Lipstick - I was watching one of my favorite makeup guru in youtube "emilynoe83" and I came across her video regarding her Top MAC lipstick and their drugstore dupes. This shade of lipstick was very similar to MAC's Angel lipstick. It really looked good and very similar in the video so I decided to check Target and try it out.  It's only a dollar so I took the chance and purchased this one. I'm so glad I did. The texture of the lipstick is good, it wasn't drying for my lips and the color is wonderful as well. It's a good neutral and almost nude with a slight pinch of pink shade. I was afraid that it might be too nude for my lips but I was glad it wasn't at all. It's not bright or frosty either. It's a perfect shade of lipstick if you're going for that natural look or for just an everyday wear. I also love the simple packaging. If I still love this after few more months and wear, I might check out their other shade too and might go for a darker shade.  To enhance the color and add more moisture, I recommend that you top it off with a lip gloss.

2)      NYX Tea Rose Lipstick - I was planning on exchanging my jumbo pencil I bought earlier with another lipstick shade called Perfect which was reviewed as a dupe for MAC's Half and half. However when I was reading and watching NYX lipstick review I passed by this shade. It looked wonderful with the swatches so  I went to ULTA and checked this one out. It took me awhile to decide which one to pick (even if they have a promo of buy 1 and get 1 50% off in all NYX lipstick). I just needed 1 more neutral lipstick shade (Plus I don't want to spend anything since I was just exchanging it). So after some thought I decided to get this one. over Perfect. It's a nude color that you have to apply lightly. Too much application just wasn't quite right for me, made me look really pale. But when I applied it with one coat, I did achieve a very natural neutral look. I do suggest you apply a lip balm or lip primer to smooth your lip because it does tend to show the lines. Top it off with a lip gloss too to enhance the color as well.

3)      ELF waterproof eyeliner pen in COFFEE - I've been practicing with eye makeups lately and I'm just frustrated with  my eyeliner pencils because of smudging and some of it like ELF brightening eyeliner can be hard. So I decided to try a waterproof pen. Since I'm just practicing. I decided to try with ELF first since it's only a dollar. I'm impressed with this eyeliner, I didn't have any problem with smudging and application was very easy for me. It's not too intense so if you want a heavier look, I suggest 2-3 more applications. Coffee is just the shade I wanted since black can really make my eyes bigger. But I might reconsider black one too if I want to get that dramatic eye look.

4)      Neutrogena Makeup Remover wipes - This is one of my favorite makeup remover wipes. I am a fan of Neutrogena face products and I know for sure that this won't break me out. I got the $1.99 size since I'm just a stay at home mom to be for now, but you can purchase the bigger size too. Works well for me. Just always wash your face after using the wipes.






     The following are the makeups I got last sunday:

 1)      NYC Smooth Skin Pressed Face Powder in Natural Beige - I was really planning on purchasing MAC Blotting powder that day since I was buying my MAC Studio fix. However this caught my eye while shopping at Target. I believe I was deciding if I wanted to buy NYC bronzing powder. This product was only $2.74 so I decided to give it a try. I was still having doubts because the shade looks too light for my skin color. They only have Transluscent as the other shade but there is another shade which was not available that time which was Warm Beige. I did my research prior to opening the package and a lot have stated that it's similar with MAC's blotting powder, in terms of finishing and oil control. I was still doubtful with the shade but from my research, the Natural Beige was for my skin type. Thank God that when I tried it on, it matched well. Like MAC's it doesn't add more color on your face and it just finishes and helps settle your foundation. In terms of oil control, it did it's job. I've only used it a couple of times but it didn't cause me to break out and I like that it's very light on the skin. You can use it as a finish or just as a pressed powder by itself.

2)      MAC Lipstick in Craving - One thing I love about MAC is that they have this return recycle policy. Return 6 containers from powder compacts, eyeshadows and lipsticks container and you get 1 lipstick free. So prior going to MAC, I already did my research. Few on my list are Craving, Fanfare, Creme Cup and Ravishing. When I got there it was between Craving and Fanfare. I just fell in love with both shades. Fanfare is a cremesheen finish and more neutral color and Craving is a neutral light berry ampliefied creme. I chose amplified because I tend to go more on this shade in terms of lipstick. I love how smoothly it goes on my lips, it's not drying at all. and last a long time. I still have another batch of recylables and will  definetly get Fanfare next time.

     I'm adding a review from my previous haul. I love all my previous haul except for this two. Somehow it's one of those product I regret buying.

1)      ELF Teal Dream Brightening eye color - This quartet comes from the $1 line of ELF cosmetic. I was excited to get this one because of the color combinations and was really excited to practice with this one. The colors looked pigmented in the packaging. However when I tried to apply this I was disappointed that it wasn't pigmented, at all it was very sheer and once you apply and try to blend it,  he colors just seem to fade. I even used a primer. It may only be a dollar but I was still expecting something out of it. I also have another set of brightening color in Butternut and for some reason that one sticks to my eyes more and the color is way better.

2)      ELF Brightening Eyeliner in Black - I bought this one to practice. It's very affordable. You also get a sharpener upon purchase. The problem I encounter with this one is that it hard to apply over the lids, it doesn't help in giving you the desired colored and line and although it looks good in the waterline, it smudges after sometime and it fades easily too. I'm still keeping it for practice or a just add on makeup if I want to amp my look for night time. Right now I prefer using ELF waterproof eyeliner pen and liquid eyeliner.






     I still have a some makeup wish list that I'm reserving over the holiday and next year. So hopefully this will be the my last HAUL. Lol!

How Long Can You Keep Makeup?

      Nobody wants to wear an expired makeup but nobody wants to throw away makeup every year whether it's an expensive or a cheap brand. So I'm  sharing this guideline from www.beauty.about.com. Not all guidelines are the same, so it is really up to you if you want to make this your own guideline.

 

• Concealer Up to 12 months.
  
  
  
• Powder 2 years.
  
  
• Cream & gel cleansers 1 year.
  
  
• Pencil eye liner should be sharpened regularly. It can last up to 3 years.

• Eyeshadow Will also last up to 3 years. 
   
• Extra tip: A dark eyeshadow can double as eyeliner, in fact, most makeup artists swear by eyeshadow used as eyeliner. You'll need a super-flat eyeliner brush for this (MAC, Sephora and Aveda have great brushes). Get the brush a little damp and dab in dark eyeshadow (black, brown or deep jewel-tones work great). Wiggle the brush into your lash line focusing on the space between your lashes, then sweep the color just above your lash line.
  
  
• Brushes Wash every 2-3 months in a mild detergent 
  
  
• Sponges Wash weekly and discard monthly 
  
  
  
  
• Foundation Check the ingredients: A water-based foundation will last up to 12 months, oil-based will last up to 18 months. You may find you need two different shades of foundation each year: One for summer when your skin is naturally darker and one for winter when you're lighter. 
   
• Extra tip: If your water-based foundation dries out before it's expiration date, simply add a few drops of alcohol-free toner and shake to mix it in. No need to do this to oil-based foundations. Because they contain oil, they will tend to separate. You have to shake anyway.
  
  
• Lip liner Up to 3 years. Extra tip: Skip the push-up lipliners. They're expensive, tend to break and you never really know how much you have left until you run out. No need to spend money on lip liners, there's no secret to greatness for this product. Save your money for powders and foundation.
  
  
• Lipstick Some experts say 1-2 years. Others say up to 4 years. What everyone agrees on is that if it smells rancid, throw it out, it's spoiled.
   
• Extra tip: If you store lipstick in the refrigerator, it will last longer. Bonus tip: Want your lipstick to last longer during the day? Shade in lips with lip liner before applying lipstick.
  
  
  
• Mascara This product expires the fastest: Throw out after 4 months. 
   
• Extra tip: If you don't want your mascara to expire faster than its fresh date, don't pump the wand in and out -- you're only exposing the product to drying air.
  
  
• Nail Polish Up to 12 months, depending on the quality. 
   
   
   
  
   

 

MotivateD

     Yesterday I was really frustrated watching eyeshadow tutorials. I think I have watched about a dozen of tutorials. I haven't practice any of it but I have seen good basic tutorials which I'm hoping I'll be able to do and execute well this time. Most of the tutorials said that it does take time to get use to applying eyeshadow, so I'm not really rushing myself. I guess I was just pressured yesterday because I wanted to be pretty for the bf and of course I want him to be proud of me too. I'm still watching tutorials and maybe sometime this week I'll practice it. I plan to do it everyday even if I'm just in the house so I'll be able to get used to it and who knows will be good at it too.

     For me to do it the right way this time I have researched the basic makeup products I'll be needing aside from the eyeshadow itself. Thank God for ELF! I got most of this product from their line. I got eyeshadow primer, potential eyeshadow base and eyeliner all for $1 each. I also got myself a good brush and some other eyeshadow base too. Yes, I have another haul. I'll do a blog for that one and hopefully be able to make some review as well. So for now I'll research more and be extra patient.  I'm excited to practice and practice though. I hope my motivation goes on even if it takes me for awhile to be good at it.

Eyeshadow Dilemma

     I've watched a couple of eyeshadow tutorials in youtube. I'm still confused. They make it look so easy but when I do it by myself, I just can't execute it. I'm starting to get frustrated. So I declared that I will be sticking to a more natural look, as in zero eyeshadow. Well maybe I'll just put a highlighter and eyeliner when I'm in the mood but I'll basically do the powder, blush or bronzer, highlighter and lipstick/lip gloss routine. 

      I  don't know why I'm stressing out with doing the eyeshadow application right. I have no events or occasion I need to attend anytime soon and I barely doll up. I guess I was just affected by my bf's comment (he thinks I'm very emotional lately due to pregnancy). For some reason I just want to perfect it soon. I've struggled with eyeshadow for the longest time and still after all those tutorials, I'm left confused. 

     I just don't get why those tutorials need a ton of eyeshadow colors and brushes to achieve a particular look. Even the simple, natural look looks so complicated. But I really do appreciate those who posted tutorials using 1 eyeshadow and 2 brushes. It looked easy but hopefully when I try it by myself I'll achieve the same look.

     The more I stress out the more I realize why do I need to doll up when in fact I'm radiant with this pregnancy and I'm just that type of girl that wants a simple and very natural look. I'm not competing with anybody and nobody is requiring me to doll up. I think I'll race my white flag for  now with this dilemma. But I know I shouldn't give up just yet. I'll learn how to use the eyeshadow just in time for a certain occasion. All I know for now and I'm sure I'll continue doing. I will put color in my face through blush, bronzer and highlighter. Simplicity is the key for now.

     I love make up but just hating eyeshadow right now.

July 2011 Cosmetic Haul

     Here is the picture of my cosmetic haul for the year 2011 (I hope it's the last one. I think it will keep me well stock for more than a year). All of this products were just bought from Target and CVS. I'm such an impulsive buyer that I just bought this without discounts or any sales (but thanks to bf I didn't spent that much) and just based from the reviews.

From the top:

1) Sonia Kashuk makeup bag - This was on clearance sale for around $4.99. Size is small but good enough to store makeups you will be needing during overnights or short out of town trips. It's a foldable bag and once opened, you will see 2 zipped and clear compartment inside. Makeup brushes fits fine and because the compartment is clear, it will be easy for you to find the product you need. The closure are magnetic snaps and it's made of plastic so you can just leave it by the bathroom sink without any fear of getting it wet.

2) Wet n Wild Eyeshadow Trio palette -  Wet n Wild have a lot of  trio palettes available but I picked Silent Treatment and Sweet as Candy. I do prefer minimal and natural color eyeshadows which is why I picked this two. Colors are from pink to brown for the Sweet as Candy and gray, brown and pink for Silent Tretatment. I've tried Sweet as Candy and I was impressed with its pigmentation. This comes in the shimmering side however but it's a good eyeshadow for only $2.99. I still have to test how long it stays on though.

Second row:

3) Physicians Formula Happy Booster Translucent powder - One of PF's newest product which claims that it will boost your mood and feel happy. I really don't know if it makes me happy when I put it on but the packaging is so cute and those hearts just makes me smile.  So I really can't tell if it made me happy or I'm just adoring it/ It's not fragrance free. It does have a scent ,more of rose like because of the violet extract the product has. But the scent is very very minimal. It's so faint that you'll just smell it if you actually smell the product.  It's a face powder but since it has a hint of shimmer I used it as a highlighter instead. It's a bit expensive for a drugstore brand so I encourage you to buy it when it's on sale or during any promotion.

4) ELF Eyeshadow - This one only cost a dollar. The palette is called Teal Dream. I've tried it on earlier and its ok. It's not heavily pigmented but it is shimmering upon application. I still have to test it's staying power though. But I do love the colors and since it's cheap, it's worth trying.

5) Physicians Formula Multicolored Palette Blush in Blushing Peach - Another product I've heard and read good reviews about. Not heavily pigmented nor shimmery which I like and it gives you that natural peachy blush. One of the best buy I did. I just want to wear it over and over.

Last row:

6) Wet n Wild Silk finish lipsticks - One of the cheapest but good lipstick I have discovered. For only $0.99 you have a couple of shades to choose from. What I like about it, is that even if its cheap the quality is pretty impressive. I've used the two shades I have which are 510A and 502A and it didn't dry my lips at all. You might need to re-apply it but it doesn't wear off that easily. I just love this one. 510A is almost the same shade as Clinique Beauty. The only thing I wish Wet n Wild would change is the placement of the label. Yes, the products have names but because it's placed microscopically in the plastic which you have to remove to use the product it's very easy to forget or even notice it.

7) Physicians Formula Happy Booster Blush in Natural - This one is pretty much the same as the powder except it is a blush. It also comes in another shade called Rose. I'm glad I picked the natural shade because you have to be gentle when you swatch your brush and apply it on your cheek. I mean really gentle coz too much is really too much especially for the lighter complexion. I  was just thinking what more the Rose shade which looks darker. I also have to mention that it comes with a brush which is pretty much useless for me, use a blush or powder brush instead. If you apply it minimally the blush is just right.

8) NYC Color Wheel Mosaic Powder in Pink Cheek Glow - This was an unplanned item but when I saw this I knew I just have to buy it. It looks pretty similar with PF's multicolored palette but way cheaper (around $5 cheaper). It is categorize as a powder but it's better as a cheek color. You don't want to have the whole facial pink glow. I have no regrets picking this one.

9) ELF Tinkle Pink blush - Another cheap blush, sold for $3. The color is the shade I wanted not too pink or peachy, on application however you have to apply it a couple of times to make it more visible and to pop the color. But if you're just rooting for a faint blush, this is for you.

    So I guess you can say I'm a happy shopper with my cosmetic haul for this month.

wHaT TIMEX is iT?

     

     I love watches, I think I have more than 10 in my collection. The price ranges from cheap to expensive ones. I have character watches, sporty and formal styles too. If you're not sure what to give me for special occassions you will be safe buying me either makeups or a watch. I think my love for watches is related to my line of work. I need to time and count every heart beat, respiration and even IV fluid drops. So without this I feel almost naked or empty.

     Recently I went Timex shopping. It started when my bff got robbed and one of the items taken was her Timex watch given by our other bff. I offered to buy her one as a replacement and as a gift. So while I did my shopping for her, I realized that Timex are of good quality. I started reading reviews about it and pretty much people mentioned that it's timeless, cheap but relieable, they also have a lot of styles and they said it's true to its claim "Takes a Lickin and Keeps on Ticking". My bff also mentioned that it's an all around watch. She wears it casually, even during formal events and she loves that it's water resistant. 

     I basically ignored Timex thinking it was a cheap brand and will break easily. But based from all the reviews and my bff's testimony I was convinced to give it a try. I bought a total of 5 timex watches in store and online. I did my best to  wear each watch to check how it's working and if theres any defect. So far they all worked as promised. Four of the watches has Indiglo light which really helps when checking the time in the dark. I'm really impressed with each watch. I love them all however I had to return 2 watches because I really don't need all 5 watches at the same time (I'm a stay at home mom to be as of the moment). Plus I still have other watches I need to wear as well. One can have too many watches. Although I still have one more style I'd like to buy maybe around Christmas, so another one for my Christmas wish list.

     I believe my 3 Timex watches will stand the test of time and will prove that I made a mistake ignoring this brand. I think all 3 will be helpful once the baby comes out. I'm gonna be a busy bee for sure and I know there will be times I will be rough with my watches. But because it is cheap, it really won't matter if it gets scratched, soaked in water, break or give up. Another thing I like about Timex is that upon purchase you get a year warranty and if you add an additional $5 you get an extra 4 year warranty. How about that! I know for sure Timex will be one of  my bff accessories.

This are my newest Timex watches from left to right : Timex Midsize T49692 Analog Camper Canvas Strap Expedition Watch, Timex Women's T40301 Expedition Classic Analog Watch, Timex Unisex T42591 Camper Expedition Classic Analog Watch 

 

 

 

SuddEnLY NoT so HappY DaY

     I was planning to do a couple of blogs for today. Mostly regarding my cosmetic haul from the past 2 days. I already took pictures and was already forming thoughts and words in my mind. I was also planning to re-arrange my makeups and put sticker with date of purchase, first opened and use, @ the back portion. Suddenly my sweet, happy mood turned into sour. I'm open with criticism (or so I thought) but when my boyfriend told me  that maybe I need to go to MAC and ask the associates to teach me how to apply eyeshadow. I got upset. Of course I didn't tell him. I even ask how it looks like and if it is only the eyeshadow I'm not doing right. He just told me he feels like I'm not doing it right because it doesn't pop my eyes. After we hang up I suddenly got discouraged. 

     I am not a makeup guru, professional and I don't always wear it all the time. I just like having my own makeup set as well that's why I'm buying cosmetic products. I have to admit eyeshadow is not my forte. I just can't execute it well as other girls can. I just play with it. As long as I'm presentable I'm okay. But hearing someones comment particularly my boyfriend just made me feel bad. I feel bad  that I have all these eyeshadow palette and I don't even know how to use it. the proper way. I tried it again and again but I just couldn't. Either my colors are too shimmery, I'm not executing it the right way (which I know I am not) or I just need to pay more attention watching tutorials and need more practice.

     I watched a couple of eyeshadow tutorial most especially the basic ones. But I just got frustrated because most of them are using a smoky eye look techniques even if they say it's basic, natural, everyday wear or easiest way. I wish they'll just use 2 shades of eyeshadow and 2 simple techniques so I can follow easily. Due to this frustration I'll just focus on my face, cheeks and lips. I'll just use the most basic eyeshadow application I can. But I'm still hoping that I'll do it right. How I wish someone taught me how to apply eyeshadow the right way. I think that's one of my regrets if you can consider it. My mom, aunts or cousin never taught me how to apply makeup. I just had to figure it on my own.

    So that's how my day became a not so happy day 

.

I HeArT my GuY

     Today is my lucky day. I earlier posted my blush wish list and I did mentioned that I may not get all of it because I limited myself with a certain budget to control my impulse buying. 

     So my guy and I went out and checked out our Target store. I informed him I'll be in the Beauty Products aisle. I guess I spent too much time deciding which blush to buy. Well I was done with my ELF haul. Buying ELF products was the easiest part. I bought my Tickle Pink blush because that was the only one they have, Peachy Keen was no where in sight. There were other shades but I didn't like any. of it. I also grabbed a Teal color eye shadow palette. What consumed my time was choosing between Physicians Formula blushes. I kept looking, reading and thinking and comparing whether to buy the Happy Booster blush in Natural or the Multicolored Palette Blush in Blushing Peach or Nude. Both where under $11 but I knew I must only pick one but it was just so hard and what made things harder was when I turned around and saw NYC color wheel mosaic face powder. Not only was it cheap but it looked exactly the same as Physicians Formulas multicolored palette. Decisions, decisions so I just placed all three in my shopping bag and decided to think about it while shopping other stuff. Next thing I know my guy found me and was telling me the good deals they have in toys. So I said I'll check it too because I was still undecided which blush to get. Target has good deals with toys I tell you ranging from 50-70% while looking around my guy (I think he sensed I was stressed  deciding) said "How much were the makeup?" I replied "One is $6. The other 2 are $11 each" and like music to my ears he said "Just get  all of it. I'll buy it for you.". Of course I still wanted to be cheap and stay on the budget I told him I have to decide only on 1 product that cost $10 and plus it's going to be too much blush. But he then reminded me not to think anymore and just get everything since he's paying for it. Oh how I wished I took all the shades I wanted. Just kidding, I was sticking on my list.

     So I ended up going home not only with 1 blush but all 3 blushes in my list plus NYC powder and some ELF products too without spending anything, thanks to my loving guy. I know he's done that before once in awhile, maybe it's pregnancy hormone or something but his gesture  today meant a lot. So I'm just really really happy. Almost doing my Happy Dance. Can't help myself from thanking him over and over.

     He deserves lots of hugs and kisses for being the best. I think he was happy too because he just hates it when I shop for the things I want right away . He once said that "I like that you buy what you want. Saves me money" but sometimes he also regrets it and says "If you buy everything all at once I don't have anything to buy you as a gift."

      

    

Blush wish list

     The following are my blush wish list I wish to purchase in the next few days or so. I'm hoping I'll just be satisfied with just one or two products or eventually decide I only need one after all since I prefer using bronzers or highlighting powder more. So we'll see.

     @ Number 1  is the Physicians Formula powdered palette multicolored blush. I've seen and read good reviews about this product. For some reason I just love makeup products that are mosaic in presentation that I can have fun blending all the colors to achieve a certain shade. I still have to see this product in person because I'm torn with two shades right now. Blushing Peach and Blushing Nude, I just want to see their difference in terms of shade because they kinda look the same in the pictures. I prefer my blush to look more natural, not too peachy even if it's summer and not to pinkish. Because what I've noticed is (even with my powder foundation and concealer) the darker the shade the more obvious my previous acne scars are. Looking naturally blushing is what I'm really rooting for.

     @ Number 2 is another Physicians Formula blush called Happy Booster Blush. This comes in two shades Natural and Rose. I'm still not sold with this one yet. I've seen this in the store and find the shade too dark. I've read reviews that says the shade is just right and other says that it's too dark. So I'm really torn. I just love the packaging and the hearts that's why its on my list. But if I have to choose between this one and number 1, I think I'll get number 1. Oh by the way Physicians Formula blushes and powder are on the pricey side for a drugstore brand. So you might as well buy this products when there is a sale, discounts available or you have coupons or use your extra care cash reward, another reason I haven't bought it yet. Well I had a chance earlier but I preferred the Happy Booster transluscent powder. More practical because I can use it as both finishing powder and highlighter.

     @ Number 3 is ELF (Eyes, Lip, Face) blush. I love, love ELF cosmetics. It's not only cheap but the quality is good as well, which is why people just love and swear by this brand. Many have reviewed that ELF blush is a dupe of NARS blush. Almost the same packaging but I'm not sure in terms of pigmentation, I haven't own any NARS products yet. Among the 3 blushes this will be my number one buy for sure. People rave about the shade Peachy Keen and Tinkle Pink but as I said I might pass on the peach shade and get the other one. But who knows getting both shades wouldn't hurt my pocket. They sell for $3. You might as well try it but please don't buy it all so other people can try LOL.

     So we'll see which products I'll end up with. Either way I know any purchase will really make me a happy shopper.

   

Shopping itch for makeup

     This is exactly what's on my mind right now. Shop for more makeups. It's that time of the year that I just want to add more makeup on my train case. I was checking all the makeup products and it was around this time I started to replace and update my makeup products. As I mentioned before I was a late bloomer in terms of makeup. I store and use makeups for more than 2 years or even more especially if I love that particular item. I know it was not sanitary but makeups are not cheap you know or I just couldn't bear throwing items that I haven't finished until the last drop. So last year I started writing at the back of my makeups the date it was opened. or purchased I have a couple that I've thrown out already like some lipsticks that has dried out and mascaras tf ( it's not a daily makeup staple for me so I have decided not to buy one unless I really really need it). But I still have some products I'm keeping for the reason that I barely used them last year like eyeshadow palettes, bronzers and lipsticks. So I think that could past some hygienic standards (or my standards for that matter). 

     So why do I have that itch to shop for more makeups? You see I'm just a stay at home mom2be because per doctor's order. So I'm just at home stuck reading,watching tv and youtube makeup videos and makeup reviews and I just felt I'm missing out on a bunch of good products. I know I won't be using it anytime soon and my budget is not as fancy as it was when I'm working but girls and makeup, come on.  I already did my 2 runs in my local drugstore (I just love CVS), got a couple of Wet n Wild eyeshadow trio palettes and lipstick and today I bought one of my wish list since valentines day, which is the Physicians Formula Happy Booster powder. Together with that I bought 2 more Wet n Wild lipstick the other one I'll probably give away because the color didn't suit me at all. But even after to my runs to the store I still have some more wish list and mostly are blushes. I was into bronzer and highlighter last year that I realize I only have 2 1/2 blushes with me. Not that I badly need it but there are a couple of blushes out there I really want to have. So I might blog my blush wish list after this and hopefully be able to decide which one to buy. I only have a budget of $10-15 dollars since I already spent around $40 dollars on my previous purchases. Wish me luck and I hope after this my makeup shopping itch will end and I'll just be happy watching youtube makeup videos. 

My daily face and lips must have

     I think every girl has her own daily face and lip must haves although I praise those who just simply don't put anything on there face but still look wonderful. Over the years I had to try different products that will suit my very sensitive skin. From cheap products to expensive ones. As they say Try and Try until you succeed, so today I'll be listing my daily face and lip must have. This are the products that I wear daily and couldn't leave the house without. Products that suits my skin well and products I believe in. Most of them I've been wearing for years. I tried to replace them but I just keep coming back.

     First on my list is MAC Studio Fix foundation in C4. I can't remember how I got introduced to MAC. I've been avoiding this line of makeup because I was afraid that it was way too expensive for me. You're gonna shell some cash when buying their products but I never regret making this as my face foundation. It was sold the moment I tried it in the store. It suits my skin well, I never had acne breakouts when I started using this one, covers well, stays for a long time and not cakey. I just love this product. I prefer using a powder blush than the sponge but both works just fine. I just can't leave the house without it. I have 2 of this. One in my train case and the other one is in my overnight bag. I've tried different powder foundation but this is just the best for me.

     Second product I can't live without is Bigelow Mentha Lip Tint in Magenta Mint. I'm one of those girls that gets really really dry and chapped lips. I've tried numerous lip balm, chapsticks and even lip gloss with moisturizer. Some of them worked but overtime it just fails me until I discovered this. Not only it give your lips some color, it moisturizes it well and I just love the minty feeling it leaves when you apply it. For me it last long I probably re-apply it 1-2 times in a day and I barely use lipstick when I'm using this. I'm glad its available in every Bath and Body Works (I don't know what will happen to me if they ever discontinue this one), it's $7.50 a piece but they sometimes have a promotion where you buy 2 get 1 free. I really stock up with this one. I just have to make sure I have it with me all the time.

      At number 3 is Neutrogena Moisturizer with SPF15. I swear by Neutrogena because this is the only line of face products that helps me control my acne problems. I used to wear Body Shop Tea Tree Facial Moisturizer but when I migrated here it wasn't available. So I had no choice but to experiment. I'm just glad I tried this one first and I never had to try anything else. Moisturizes my skin well even if I went to the dry and peeling skin on my face phase during pregnancy. It does sometimes makes my face oily but I can deal with that. I does it job most of the time and I couldn't ask for more.  

      Both in number 4 is my Neutrogena facial wash. As I mentioned earlier Neutrogena helps me control my acne. I never had bad break outs ever since. I've been a loyal fan of their facial wash since my college days. I've tried to use different brands of facial wash but nothing beats Neutrogena for me. I even tried some of their newer products but this two just suits me well. I don't use them at the same time. I use Acne Stress Control during shower time and when I come home from work. I love the scrubbing effect it has and the minty feeling it leaves as you wash it of. Gives both refresh and relaxing effect. It can just be on my mind but I just feel it takes all the dirt in my face.

     I use Neutrogena Acne as my morning facial wash. I just can't leave the bedroom without washing my face ( and without brushing my teeth or using a mouth wash. A morning routine my mom instill in me since I was young). I also use this one when I get home from a party or errands to clean my face and remove the makeup I wore in that particular day. It's Oil free as well and it's scent free which I like. 

     I always make sure I have back ups for this two. I love it when it's on sale or discounted. 

     Fifth on my list is the Physicians Formula Shimmer Stripes. They have a couple of shades of this product but I totally forgot the name of the one that I'm using but it's exactly the same shade as the picture. I've been using this product for a over year now. I've been using MAC blushes for years but I eventually got tired of it and I wanted to try something different and something more natural or neutral, luckily I've seen this from a couple of makeup bloggers/gurus and they gave good reviews about this product. I love the shimmer it leaves and the fact that you can choose between applying a lighter or darker shade. It can be a blush, bronzer, highlighter or even an eyeshadow if you want. I rarely use blushes since I started using this. Physicians formula has impressed me. Haven't had any breakouts since I started using their product. I'm still deciding whether to buy their Happy Booster line just to add more pink in my face. They do cost a little bit more than any drugstore brands but I think it's worth it.

     Last on my list and this is the newest one is Sephora's Tokidoki Lip Balm Stain in Gelato. One day I went to Sephora to shop for Tokidoki eyeshadow palette when I saw this one on the shelf. It wasn't expensive so I decided to give it a try. This was the only shade available although I would love to try the coral shade they have as well. The color might appear too bright pink at first but once you apply it it's not really the shocking pink shade. The color is just right for me. By itself it's not drying to the lips but I do top it off with Bigelow Mentha Lip just to add more moisture and shimmer.  I use them both to add more color on my face. By itself the color doesn't last that long but I don't mind re-applying it.