Check Me Out!!

A couple of weeks ago a good friend of mine who knows I get Botox regularly called me said "Hey Lisa...when was the last time you had Botox?" I told her it had been 3/4 months. She said "great well how would you like some FREE?" I said SURE....but there was a catch....you have to be on the news.

Done and done.

There is no shame in my game, and I advocate for Botox so WHY NOT?!

So I went the next afternoon, meet with the PR girl, my friend, and Heather Moore from CBS 5 along with her camera crew! The deed was done and I think I did pretty good! I was not nervous at ALL and everyone said I was a complete natural on camera. No retakes here ;)

It finally aired 2 nights ago, so here it is! Your truly on the 10oclock news :)

http://www.kpho.com/story/20549179/20-somethings-frown-on-getting-older-more-of-them-getting-botox-treatments

Favorite Things: Hair Edition

With all these posts about heat free style and such, I started getting questions about what products I use and love, so naturally I shall blog :) Ask and you shall recieve.

I'm just going to put it out there...I'm a Redken girl! No blowing smoke up your ass, that's what I like and thats what I use for the most part. Their products really saved my hair after some asshat thought it was great idea to run bleach through my already over processed blonde hair. Hello chemical cut!? Anyways, after that nightmare, I started using Redken's Extreme line religiously. Specifically the shampoo, conditioner, the once a week treatment, and the Anti-Snap leave in.

Now that my hair is healthy again (well healthier, I still am a fake blonde, and you cant go from dark brown to blonde without damage) I've transitioned to drug store shampoo/conditioner. Usually Pantene, or Dove, sometimes Loreal, but mostly one of the three (which ever is on sale or that I have a coupon for). I still use Redken products, but I don't really need the whole line of stuff anymore, and my hair needs have changed some. So here goes...my hair product/s routine.

Wash with one of the shampoo/conditioners above every 3-4 days. Yes, I only wash my hair about 2x per week. It is very dry and is actually best 2/3 days post wash!

One wash per week I do the Extreme Strength Builder mask in between shampoo and conditioning.

After towel dried, I use Redken's Smooth Down Detangling Creme, because this stuff be a ratty mess! Especially if its been curled! Yikes. Takes me about 10 min. just to comb through it.

Then, its on to the Anti Snap! 5 pumps to be exact. It's a leave in treatment that helps strengthen distressed and or over processed  hair. AKA a lifesaver for a fake blonde!! It also helps protect from any breakage and split ends. Seriously, if I was only going to pick 1 salon quality product for my hair- this would be it!  

After I apply those two products, I comb through it, get rid of any access water, and start applying my makeup. By the time my makeup is done (about 10 min) my hair is 1/2 air dried. Then I apply the new Argan-6 oil from the All Soft line.

If you like Moroccan oil, you will love this! I still love Moroccan oil, but its so expensive and my hair guy had a special running (buy 2 get 1 free!) so I snapped this right up! And I LOVE it! It smooths everything down, its very light, has a great smell, and a little goes a long way! I use like 2 pumps and I'm good, and I have a lot of hair! Best part, is that it can be used on wet, dry, or damp hair. I prefer to use it on damp hair, but I have used it post blowdry before and it works nicly then too. My guy said this will last forever, and I agree because I only use 2 pumps and the bottle is huge.

That's it! If I need hairspra on days that I am styling, I use Garnier Sleek and Shine Hairspray. It's my personal drug store fav. It works fantastic, isn't too much but holds well, and smells good. Best of all- its inexpensive. Any everyone loves inexpensive!

Do I spend a lot on salon quality hair products? Yes. Do I think that everyone needs to do so to have fabulous hair? No! Not at all! I do because of the way I process, bleach, and style my hair. So I use these products to help maintain its straight and lenght. If I were my natural color, I would probably spend a lot less! It would be a good leave in treatment and hairspray for styling purposes. But because I bleach, color, or BOTH every 5 weeks, its imperative that I take good care of my hair....unless I want another chemical cut. And that's not cute. Like at all. No thanks!

Favorite Things: Kiss Nail Sticks!

I'm sure you've seen or heard about these things by now. They are basically stickers for your nails! They are actually called Nail Dress, but I call them Nail Sticks! : ) I wasn't that interested in them until I was sitting in a Dr's office one day last week and I complimented the nurse on her beautiful jewled nails. She said "Thanks, but you know they are just those stick on sticker nail things you can get at the drug strore and they last about a week".

After that I HAD to try them! I've been trying to be more budget on the wallet friendly, so these last few months I have been doing my own nails and toes. And well you know my nails be lookin raggity!

I ran down to Walgreen's later that day and stocked up! They had so many to chose from. Solids, jeweled, animal prints, and all different designs. I couldn't decide which ones were cuter, and which ones I wanted so I bought 4 boxes (wait, is that counter productive to me being frugal?)

Anyways, the next day I was feeling up to the challenge. Everyone (and the box) said EASY, ONLY TAKES MINUTES FOR PERFECT NAILS, but you know how that is. Suuuuuurre. So when M was down for her nap, and the big girls were at school I was ready to roll. I chose the pretty Lacey design because we were going to to see The Nutcracker Ballet that night.

And I am being 100% honest when I say ANYONE CAN DO THIS! And it was really SO EASY!! It took about 10 minutes to put all of them on, the directions are short and simple, done! Really, anyone can do this! It is fool proof! And you can have beautiful LACE nails in 10 min. for only 8 dollars!!

I was sold! The next challenge was to see how long they actually lasted. The box says up to 10 days, but I know better. So here they are after 4 days.....keep in mind I am really rough on my hands. Lots of dishes, washing hands constantly, wiping asses, you get the idea...

Then I was wondering how do you get them off? Well that was super easy too! You just start peeling them up from the bottom and they pretty much come off in one piece.

Bottom line, even though they only lasted 4 days (for me), it is still one of my new favorite things. A beautiful 8 dollar manicure for the weekend?? Hellz yeah!

So I peeled off the old, and put on a new pair this week! Just in time for Christmas...

 I also painted my toenails yesterday and added some to my toes. Not perfect, but pretty awesome huh?!

So if you've been wondering about these like I had, GO FOR IT! You wont regret it! (Pretty designed) Pinky promise ;)

Easy No Heat Curls

I discovered a way to have beautiful voluminous curls!! Best part? It involves NO HEAT! Because I process my hair so much, once a week when I wash my hair I try and style in some sort of heat free way, so I'm always trying new things. Usually, I put it in a low bun while its still damp, sleep in it over night, and let it down in the morning to have perfect Effortless Waves is what I call it! See?

Well last night I thought I'd try something different. I thought I would see what happens if I put in 2 buns instead of just one. And discovered a whole new result! Perfect VOLUMINOUS curls!! See? Excuse the silly look on my face. It really is hard to take a picture of yourself....

Okay, so it starts out like this: Wash hair, wait until its damp, then put in 2 low buns. Doesn't have to be perfect, but its important to not make them too tight or too loose.

Sleep on it over night. When you first take it out it looks like this:

Next up up fluff! Flip your head upside down a couple times and shake your head to loosen the buns naturally (don't separate them with your fingers)! Then you have THIS:

Pretty awesome right???!! And SO EASY!

 Disclaimer: I'm not sure this would work on anything but long hair, but its worth a shot!

Favorite Things: Francesca's

Let's talk about Francesca's, because I feel like every woman on the planet should know about this place! It is by far one of my favorite places to shop for cloths for myself. And if you're an Anthroplogie girl like me, but don't want (or have) that kinda money on cloths then Francesca's is going to be YOUR new favorite place to shop too!

It's a much smaller verison of Anthropolgie, with the same boutique-y feel. Same style and variety of cloths, but with a much smaller price tag. They have cheeky books and gifts, an awesome jewelry selection, and some of the cutest shoes and handbags you will ever see! Every time I go in there, I just about die. I usually head straight for the sale racks, where a typical top will be 38.00 with an additional 30% off. But the best part, is its not typical. Every time I wear a Francesca's top, someone comments on it! They seriously have the cutest stuff.

Like today on my morning outing with M, I scored these frocks (on sale!)

The ONLY thing I have bad to say about Francesca's is that the selection in the store varies quite a bit from what you will see online. There are tops you can find in-store, but not online. Colors, and styles you see in-store, but not on-line, and vice vera. I much prefer shopping in store, and even more so with this place. I really need to be able to try things on, etc. and with the way so many of these tops are cut, it is even more crucial.

So hopefully there is one near you,! Check it out, you wont be disappointed! Happy shopping :) 

Favorite Thing: Electrolux Ergo Stick Vac

I can not possibly fathom how I've had my blog this long and not talked about this favorite thing of mine. It's the Electrolux Ergo Rapido 2 in 1 Stick Vac. I bought one of these initially because we have tumbled/chipped edge tile in a large portion of our house (kitchen/dining area/hallways) and a broom would just sweep everything into the grooves and it was such a pain in the ass to sweep. Let me just say this. This is THE BEST 100 DOLLARS I HAVE EVER SPENT! Seriously. I use this about 3-5 times per day, no joke! If you have hardwood floors or tile, you will wonder why you haven't bought one of these before and how you made it this long without one. I seriously haven't pulled out a broom in 3 years...wait I don't even think I have a broom anymore....I don't need it!  

Most stick vacs lack good suction power, but this thing is AMAZING. I can actually vacuum my carpet just fine with it it is so powerful. It has 2 speeds of suction, it charges on a docking station (so no cords), it's bag less, and has a removable handheld vac with attachments! Which is perfect to suck out the highchair, car seats, my car, spills or crumbs off the table, the couch, and I also use it on my bathroom floors.

All of my friends know how much I love this thing because they hear me using it ALL the time. I cant live without it! It truly is my favorite thing! I mean I love this thing so much if I had to chose between my stick vac and my husband I would chose the stick vac :) Oh and if you are a Costco member, they have them there for 79.00, rather than the usual 99.00!

Favorite Things: Suuuuuushhheeeee!

Okay so I don't know if you guys know this but I LOVE SUSHI! Like love. I went to a new place today called Tokyo Lobby and I have never in my life had better or fresher sushi than this place today. It is my absolute new fav!!

The Yellow tail..hands down best.ever.I've ever had. 

"The Boston" a California roll topped with spicy tuna? (I think) and row with a yummy sauce. This one was our least favorite...it was good, but had a very different taste...couldn't put my hands on what it was.  

"The Eel Tempura" Eel, crab, cream cheese, deep fried with yummy sweet eel sauce. M's fav roll!

"The Momma Mia". California roll topped with Salmon and tuna with  a very unique different very delicious sauce that I have never had before. It was SOOO good.

And last by certainly not least..."The Orgasm" and rightfully so! This was This is BY FAR the best roll I have ever had and was my personal favorite. It was a shrimp tempura but instead of being wrapped in seaweed and white rice, it was wrapped in very thinly sliced salmon. MY GOD it was amazing!!

So if your in the Phoenix area and love sushi you must go here. It isn't too big, or blingy,  but the food speaks for itself in a big way!

Skin Care

I am going to share my skin regimen with you; especially since I've notice a change in my skin since changing up my routine! Up until recently, I was one of those girls who went to bed with their makeup on. Yes, I know how bad that is. It totally dawned on me one day (after a nice microdermabrasion when my skin was glowing and clean) that going to sleep with all that makeup must be part of the reason why I start looking dull. I mean really yucky and just so dull looking. Its because my face is getting clogged up every night and night and not being hydrated like it should be! Duh. I used to wash my face every morning, use my moisturizer before putting on my makeup, and I exfoliated twice a week, and that was my routine. Not bad, but not great. I still use most of the same products that I have been using for years, I've just added in some new serums and added a cleaning and WOW what a difference!
 
Now I wash my face twice a day (morning and night) using my Rhonda Allison Pumpkin Cleanser that I have been using for years. Love this cleanser and it smells SO good! Like a pumpkin pie  :) The lactic acid in pumpkin is wonderful for your skin.

A few months ago, I started using Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Serum under my moisturizer after each wash.

After I wash; I use my serum and the Genifique Eye cream 

Then I apply my moisturizer. Lancome's High Resolution Moisturizer. I have been using this for years also. I love this stuff, and it also smells so good! (I use this moring and night). What I also like is that it has a SPF 15. Which we all know is the # 1 thing we can do to prevent aging- sunscreen!

2-3x per week after my nightly washing, I exfoliate using Rhonda Allison's Brightening Scrub. This scrub is amazing! I cant live without it!

I got a very generous sample of the Renergie Microlift R.A.R.E. serum , so after I exfoliate I apply that, my eye cream, and then my moisturizer. I would normally buy this serum yet- but since I only use it 2-3 x per week, the sample jar has lasted me a few months!

So there you have it! And like I said before, I really have noticed a difference in my skin over the last few weeks. It's brighter, plumper, and much more radiant! That's enough to make me keep it going- because I can actually see a difference. And listen, I don't think you have to buy expensive products to have great skin. I think the cleaning and hydrating at night with whatever skin care system you are using, a good weekly exfoliating scrub, and using a moisturizer with SPF is what every girl needs- no matter what the cost/brand. Because now since hitting the 28 year curse...a girl's gotta keep it right ;)

Favorite Things: My Big Buddha Hibiscus Tote!

So you all know I am a purse whore and buy 2-3 new "investments" a year right?! Really, I change bags like you change underwear and have a closet to prove it. Usually its Michael Kors, B. Maskosky, Coach, Loius Vitton, or Dooney & Bourke. Those are my staple brands. But back in June while at Kay's dance recital I ran into another mom who just happened to open up her own spa/boutique and she was carrying the.most.fabulous.must get.my.hands.on.immediately bag! So of course the convo went like this:

"Oh hey....Kate is so big now.....omg your bag is fabulous, WHERE CAN I GET ONE!"

It was so different that any other bags I have seen right now. She could have said Target and I would have ran right over. I don't discriminate, but I do like quality bags that will last me a lifetime- so that's why I don't mind spending  investing a little money. She said her store was carrying them, and that this bag in particular was sold out as soon as they came in. BUT that she would order me one and let me know when it arrived. At the time, I didn't ask what brand it was and I didnt care, I just wanted THAT bag.

Fast forward to a few weeks ago....she called me to let me know that my bag was in that I could come pick it up whenever I wanted. Of course, I ran right over.....And now you can you see why?? LOVE!

It is the Big Buddha Hibiscus Tote in White from their spring 2010 collection. The picture doesn't show this bags true beauty. The brown is a metallic flecked brown canvas like material, so its slightly shimmer and it's beautiful in person. The pattern is so feminine and pretty. It is a large bag (which I love!), and even has pockets the sides, and is so roomy that it really could be used at as diaper bag too!  I can tell you this; ever since I put that bag on my shoulder, everywhere I go someone stops me and says how much they love it! Its a show stopper I tell ya!

The quality is not as good as what I'm used to (but I'm also used to paying 400+++). This bag was $88.00 and it's defiantly worth every cent! I've since got a sneak peak at their fall 2010 line, and I must say Big Buddha is now on my list- SO fun, fashion forward, and affordable!

Favorite Things: Body Bronzer!

You know I have a love for sunless tanners and bronzing products, remember this post from a while back? I think everyone looks better tan, but I gave up on tanning beds and laying out years ago. I am slightly obsessed with staying youthful looking and taking care of my skin, and we all know the sun is the #1 thing that ages you. Plus skin cancer is some scary stuff. So while out shopping last week when I ran across Victoria's Secret Flawless Airbrush Instant Bronze Body Spray I decided to try it out.

 First let me start off by saying that this is NOT a sunless tanner, or anything like a typical self tanner. It's simply a bronzing spray. Think of it as bronze spray paint almost (and the perfect color too I might add!). I mean the stuff is totally fool proof, which is what everyone is always so worried about. If you miss a spot, you just spray a little in the spots that you need. Simple as that! You can see exactly where it goes on. No processing time, no wondering if your going to have streaks, simple and easy. Perfect if your wearing a dress and want to tan your legs, or if you have an occasion you want some color for. I love it! It's also perfect for in between my mystic sessions. It's totally one of my favorite things right now. Just passing it along to all my lovelies out there :) But I must warn you, I just noticed on their website that it says it's a limited addition, so grab it while you can if your interested!

Favorite Things: Bountiful Baskets!

A few weeks ago I got hooked on this food co-op! It it is totally my new favorite thing right now. Since my diet is mostly produce based, it works great for me and my family since I spend a small fortune each week on fresh produce. So what is is exactly? Basically, it's a way to get mostly local, high quality fruits and veggies for a great price. The baskets generally have 6 fruit items & 6 vegetable items, but the kicker is you don't know what your going to get when you place your order....hence the exciting part! I swear I am like a kid on Christmas waiting until Saturday morning to see what this weeks selections were. It's an exciting process! They pick whatever is fresh and in season that week, and that's what you get! Fun huh? You place your contribution ($15 for a conventional basket or $25 for an organic basket) every Tuesday at noon - Wednesday at 10:00 pm (it varies from state to state) and then you select your pick up location for the Saturday morning pickup. Here is a picture of this weeks basket:

Contents this week where:

1 bag of red potatoes

1 bag of apples

Blackberries

A huge bunch of bananas

1 bag of baby carrots

6 tomatoes

1 swiss chard

1 bunch of spinach

1 head of romaine lettuce

1 bunch of celery

1 pineapple

1 cantaloupe

All that for 15 dollars! It's unbeatable. This particular co-op, Bountiful Baskets, is available in a few other states too, so you might want to check it out. If not, I highly suggest finding something similar in your area! It is a great way to get fresh (mostly local) produce for a great price. Plus it's a lot of fun : ) I mean where else can you get that much produce for 15 dollars?

Oh and you don't actually get a basket. They have each persons produce in baskets lined up at the pick up site, but you have to bring your own reusable bags, box, or laundry basket to get your stuff home.

Favorite Things: Baby Edition

Consider this my 'New Mommy Must Haves' post if you will. These are a few of my favorite baby things!

Fisher Price My Little Lamb Swing

Seriously this thing is a god send! It swings side to side or forward and back and is just so cozy I wish I could crawl in there! Miss M has loved this since day one and I don't know how we could have made it without this. She is napping in it as we speak : )



Gerber Cloth Diaper Burp Cloths

These are the best for burp cloths in my opinion. Forget regular rectangular burp cloths, I find them a hassle and not shaped right. These are the way to go. They are cheap and now come in fun colors! Defiantly a staple for the formula feeding mom!


Fisher Price Soothe and Glow Seahorse

Love this! Every night Miss M is lulled to sleep by the soft music and glow from this modern day glow worm. It really lives up to the hype and is a bed time must have at our house. My only complaint is that I wish it played longer than 5 minutes, really 10 would be ideal. Still worth it my my book!


Infantino Jittery Pal- Lola The Pink Poodle

This is by far Miss M's favorite thing. I have it hanging above her changing table from the blinds for now, and no matter what time of day or what mood she is in, the moment I lay her on that changing table she smiles and her face lights up! It is the cutest thing ever. She just loves Lola! She smiles and coos at her as if Lola was talking back to her...melts my heart!


The Winkel

There is a reason why this is so popular right now! It's the perfect baby toy that's why! The rubber tubes are really flexible and there is a lot of them, making it super easy for baby's little hands to grab onto. It also makes a rattle noise when shook and is brightly colored. Who ever invented this was on point, because its a hit and for good reason!


Boppy

A Boppy is an absolute new mommy must have! Whether bottle or breast feeding you will get a ton of use out of one of these. Its also great for baby lounging and tummy time! We have defiantly gotten a lot of use out of ours, and I love that the slip cover comes right off for easy washing.

So there you have it my friends!

Favorite Things: Makeup Edition

I love make up and have a LOT of it. But If I were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring 4 makeup items with me these would be them. These are absolutely my favorite things when it comes to my makeup...my go to's...my cant live withouts!

1.) MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation

This is my staple! Everyday even if I am staying at home I put this on. It covers flawlessly and evens out my skin tone without over kill (at least if applied right). I have been using this compact for YEARS. Defiantly cant live without this! NC-35 is the shade I wear. For everyday use I apply this using the sponge applicator, along with my favorite concealer for under the eyes. If I want a heavier coverage, like for pictures or special events, I will use my foundation and then apply this with a powder brush for a lighter coverage.

2.) MAC Springsheen Powder Blush

I use many different colors of blush, but this one is by far my favorite. It is a peach color with a pearl sheer tone shimmer. I get so many complements on my skin, and really half of it is this blush! It gives a dewy, iridescent glow to my cheeks and I love that!

3.) Lancome Hypnose Mascara in Deep Black

I get asked all the time if I am wearing fake eye lashes, and the answer is no! I'm wearing Lancome Hypnose mascara! Yes, it helps that I have been blessed with naturally long lashes, but this mascara works wonders! I have tried many different mascaras through the years; drug store brands, department store brands, you name it. This is by far the best. I continue to thank my friend that introduced it to me a few years ago because I haven't looked back.

4.) MAC Eyeshadow in Naked Lunch

I use many different shades of eyeshadow...and I'm not afraid to mix it up or try new things, but this is my go to eyeshadow. I use this many different ways. On days when I'm in a hurry I will use it as an all over color and just apply with eye liner ans mascara. Or I will use it as a brow bone accent color, or mix with other colors to create different looks. It's very versatile and of course, my fav!

Favorite Thing: Sandwich Thins!

Have you seen/tried these? When I ran into these Oroweat Sandwich Thins at the grocery store I was intrigued and decided to give them a try! They are thinner than a hamburger bun (you know I have been eating a lot of these lately!), but thicker than a tortilla. They almost look like pita pockets, but they are not. They are just like really thin buns. Best part? They are only 100 calories! I have been eating them in place of my regular buns, for example today for lunch I had a soy chicken patty, provolone, and ranch sandwich on one of these and it was delish! They can be used to make mini pizza's, for sandwich buns, or toast them for a snack or serve them along side breakfast. Click on the link above for some other yummy recipes!

Favorite Thing: Nail Art Pens!

I bought a Sally Hansen Nail Art Pen in white tonight..I am sure you have seen the ads in all the magazines. I was not so sure about it at first but wanted to try it out AND it is awesome!! I gave myself cute polka dots and a french mani! So much cheaper than going to the nail salon and you can still have super cute nails! So for those of you that were wondering about these, they rock!

Love it!

P.S. They have a bunch of other colors too!

Favorite Thing

I discovered these last year and have been hooked ever since!! Even my DH who is a very picky eater LOVES these Banana Crisps from Trader Joe's! So I was very sad that while shopping there yesterday I could not find them and began to panic. It turns out that they were just out of stock and that they would have them back in soon. Thank god!! It is 3 different kinds of banana's that are very thinly sliced and lightly sweetened. It is like eating potato chips and honestly I think that they are better than potato chips!! Not to mention that they are a much healthier option. But beware because they are just as addictive : )