You are beautiful!

As a therapist, I am constantly learning from my clients, personally and professionally.  Yesterday one of my clients had the most amazing quote (though I don't know where is originated from):

You're not ugly... Society is!

Isn't that amazing?  I must say, it really moved me and I believe that often times this is oh so true!

Have a beautiful day!

Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging ~ The 411 on Gel Nail Polish

Have you heard about the new Gel Nail Polish?  It's supposed to last for 2 weeks without chipping and it is becoming all the rage.

I

source

These nail polishes are referred to as "soak off" nail gels because you must soak off the gel rather than simply removing it like traditional nail polish.  Gel nail polish is supposed to be easy on the nail and last like forever!

You must have this done by a professional because it has to "cure" under a UV light after each coat.  The procedure is the same in that the nail technician uses a base coat, 2 color coats, and a top coat but then each coat must cure before the next one is applied.  Thus, it takes more time and is about twice in cost as a traditional manicure.  The beauty lies in the results.  Once you are done, you are dry.  You leave the salon with absolutely no worries about chipping, banging, or smudging your nail color.  Of course if you like to change your color frequently gel nail polish may not be for you!  Also, some fear it may damage the nail if not properly removed.

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There are so shortage of choice these day in terms of colors.  OPI Axxium for example has over 40 shades.  Shellac is also another popular brand.

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So after reading all about Gel Nail Polish what is a girl to do who must, yes must, have a weekly manicure or she feels totally discheveled?  Well, of course the answer is try it, duh!  It was hard actually finding a salon near me that was using it but I lucked out one day and accidentally stumbled in one.  I made the mistake of buying some on eBay, misunderstanding initially that you needed the UV dryer which of course I don't have. 

So far I've tried it twice.  I don't actually remember the brand name that my salon uses.  The first time the color actually started peeling after about 9 days and I was not a happy camper!  Plus, it easily peeled off my nails after I started messing with it.  Ugh!  I actually had to have nude nails for a day until I could make it to the salon.  It really was traumatic!

But, I decided to try it one more time.  I thought this could save me time in the long run so what the heck!

This time the color is actually lasting.  No chips, no smudges, no nothing!  It still shines like the day I got it done.  Interestingly, after curing it with the UV light, my technician swipes the color with a bit of alcohol to allow it to dry.  It is not completely dry after the curing.  Once he applied the alcohol though it was dry. 

So here's my opinion on gel nail polish:

Pro's

• It's completely dry when you leave the salon.  No worries about smudging or scraping.
• It really does last for at least two weeks and stays shiny and bright.
• Saves time - no fix ups in-between manicures and only a trip every two weeks.

Cons

• It is more expensive.  A bottle can run at least 17 dollars, usually more.  The manicure is more expensive too (but it equals out if you only go every other week).
• The nail still grows which means you will see the nail near the cuticle the second week.
• You will spend longer in the salon "curing."

Clearly, I have mixed feelings about the gel.  I am a bit picky, okay, anal, so the re-growth is actually driving me nuts!  While I don't like chips, the regrowth is driving me bonkers!  Plus, I always bring my own regular nail color to the salon so I can fix any chips throughout the week.  So for me, I think I may go back to regular color.  Maybe if I am going to have a busy week or two I will get the gel, but for the most part I will stick to traditional nail colors.  But, I haven't tried it for a pedicure yet, ha!

I would love to know if you've tried and what your thoughts are!

Have a beautiful week!

OXOXOX,

Jacalyn





Go Bold this Spring ~ Beautiful Blogging

So are you all just as ready for Spring and Summer as I am?  I really, really need to see the sunshine and feel the warmth in the air. I am soooooo done with Winter.  Mother Nature it's time to move on!

One of the first things I do for Spring is to check out the new makeup trends.  I know, you all thought I was going to say something like check my gardens or clean up the yard, ha!  Well a girl has to have her priorities, right?  I think you all know by now that I absolutely adore makeup.  It's fun, it hides flaws, and enhances our beauty.  So I ask you, what's not to love!

The colors of Spring and Summer still seem to be fuchsia and coral.  But, the theme is BOLD!  Are you ready for that?  Oh I so am!  According to Fashion Magazine the lips are coated in a bright fuchsia or orange.

Dior at Sephora

Lorac @ Sephora

Fashion Magazine also notes that a bright, bold eye is all the rave this Spring.  Just remember though that you don't do both at the same time.  Choose one and downplay the other.  I tend to prefer to highlight my eyes, mainly because I love to play with eyeshadow. 

Are you bold enough for blue?  I love to use this shade as an eyeliner.  For me, it really enhances my brown eyes!

How about green?  All hues of green too!  If you're bold go with the lime green.  If you're not so bold go with the moss green.  Check out Stylelist for more on green.  Oh and scroll down to the end of the page because there's a great tutorial on the smoky eye!  I sure do love me some smoky eyes!

A pretty pallet from Stila

Real Beauty advises "For a fun, nighttime look, start by applying lighter lilac shades on the inner corners of the eye and darker lavender and plum hues as you move outwards on"

Super pretty, yes?  I think you can modify this look to work for daytime too!  Don't be afraid to use some bright purple on those eyelids.  What fun and oh so chic! 

Have you tried the SmokyShadow Blast from Covergirl?  They have some awesome color combinations and there's no guess work!  Super pretty.



 

Don't be afraid to shine this season.  And, there's plenty to choose from so you can shop in your price range.

Covergirl, Mabelline, and Revlon all have great colors to choose from as do Estee Lauder and Elizabeth Arden. 

Now, get out there and be bold this Spring!

Hugs,

Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging - Beating the Winter Blues

So the holidays are over and the reality of Winter has set in.  Cold, ice, snow, lack of sunshine, ugh!!!!!  If you're like me then you're already counting down the days until Spring - flowers, sun, warmth,  - ahhhhh...  For some of you that will start next month.  For others, March.  Still for some of us even later.  Here in Western New York we sometimes have to wait until April!  This time of year can lead to frustration, dysphoria, and the "Winter Blues." 

The good news is that you can beat those ol' Winter time blues!  Here are some tips that can help us through:

• Maintain your schedule and routine!  This can be hard to do when it's cold and windy but it is oh so important.  Get up about the same time each day, eat your meals about the same time, and complete at least one task each day.  I know it's so easy to hibernate but it's not helpful.
• Exercise!  I think we all know the benefit of exercise these days, both mentally and physically.  While it's easier to exercise when the sun is shining, don't forget we need these benefits all year long!  Exercise not only relieves stress but it also releases endorphins, the "feel good" hormones.
• Eat healthy!  I think we all tend to indulge a bit around the holidays but try to get back on track.  We need to eat good quality food to maintain our energy level.  So think about what you're eating, particularly if you're appetite is a bit suppressed.
• Schedule fun activities!  Again, I think this is so much easier in the warmer months but still as important during the Winter.  You may need to be creative, but schedule something you enjoy at least once a week.  See a movie, go to a favorite restaurant, spend some time at your local bookstore, take a walk - whatever you deem fun, do it!
• Socialize!  Don't hibernate all Winter.  Spend time with friends and family.
• Laugh!  We all need a good laugh right?  It's a great stress reliever and can make any day brighter.  Watch a funny movie or hang out with those who make you laugh.
• Engage regularly in stress-reducing activities!  What helps you relax?  Exercise? Journaling?  Friends?  A hot bath?  A good book?  Whatever that is for you, engage in it!
• If your symptoms persist or are severe please seek medical assistance.  Seasonal Affective Disorder is a real disorder that is more severe than the "Winter blues" that can successfully be treated.  You don't have to suffer.

This list is certainly not exhaustive and is in no way intended to replace professional medical care.  But is can certainly help those of us who need a little boost this winter. 

In the meantime think of this...

Have a wonderful week!

OXOXOX,

Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging ~ Turning back time?

Hello!  A while back I received quite a few requests for anti-aging products.  I've been meaning to do a post for Beautiful Blogging but some how this has remained on the back burner.  Imagine my surprise and delight when I ran across a great article on this while browsing a magazine at the beach.  The article, Good Housekeeping's First Annual Anti-Aging Awards, can be found here and in the November issue of Good Housekeeping.  You can also find out their methods of determining the winners but for this post I will just give you their rundown of some of the winners.  Be advised that some of these products are pricey!  I guess you have to decide if it's worth it.


Night Cream (tie)

-L'Oreal Paris Advanced Revitalift Deep-Set Wrinkle Repair Night Creme
-Vichy LiftActiv Retinol HA Night

Eye Cream
-Olay Pro-X Restoration Complex

Anti-Aging Serum
-Boots No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Beauty Serum

Instant Wrinkle Smoother (tie)
-Boots No7 Intensive Line Filler
-Olay Regenerist Filling + Sealing Wrinkle Treatment

Age-Spot Fader
-Roc Multi Correxion Tone Perfecting Treatment

Instant Redness Reducer
-Clinique Redness Solutions Instant Relief Mineral Powder

There are some more products and they do list some "honorable mentions" so you may want to read the entire article.  I haven't really used any of these products except the Clinique Redness reducer which I thought was okay.  Maybe I'll have to give it another shot since soooo many woman seemed to favor this.  Lately, I have been using Estee Lauder Advance Night Repair but honestly I can't tell if this works or not.  As for moisturizer, I use Neutrogena Healthy Skin Face Lotion SPF 15 because my dermatologist recommended it some years ago for the Alpha-Hydroxy.  Plus my skin is oily and clogs easily so this lotion seems to work well for me.  I would love to hear what you love and believes works for you.

Have a great day!

OXOXOX,
Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging ~ Let's Makeup

It's officially fall now!  Well I do so love fall I just dislike what follows and seems to last FOREVER!!!  But, with each new season we see new (or recycled) ideas and fall is no different!  Since I get bored easily, ha!, this works for me.  And, I have to tell you, I am loving, yes, loving, this fall's makeup trends:  Purple!  Yay!  I so love makeup in hues of purple.  Purple nails, purple lips, purple eyes, oh purple everything! And, the beauty (no pun intended) of this is that you can use whatever shade of purple works best for you! 

I actually have this palate from Estee Lauder and I am in love!  They give you suggestions on their site on how to apply which I like, but there's so much more you can do with this - just play around and see what you live!

I have recently discovered that, in my little own opinion, Revlon makes the BEST nail color.  The color lasts and lasts and boy am I hard on my nails!  Lots of purple shades to choose from too!

Can you wear a deep plum shade?  Me, not so much but there are some lighter shades that are beautiful!  Click on the picture and it will take you to Sephora's Fall Trends - Power Plums page.  Awesome array of purple hues for lips, nails, and eyes!

Click on any picture, BTW, and it will direct you to the site I found it on!

Happy fall!

OXOXOX,
Jacalyn

It the Happiest of Pink Saturdays and "Cake Balls"

Welcome to Pink Saturday!  I have a treat for you all this week!  Remember a few posts ago when I told about Bakerella and her fabulous blog?  I absolutely adore her site and threatened to attempt her recipe for cake balls!  Well, I did it!  They were absolutely delicious but not nearly as pretty as I would have like.  But, that just gives me a reason to keep practicing, he, he!   Here's Bakerella's recipe for the cake balls but I will share how I did it too.

The way I figure it, you can pretty much use any combination to create these so I chose what I have on hand:  strawberry cake mix and strawberry frosting.  Of course you can start from scratch too.

 I baked the cake as usual and let it completely cool.  Then I crumbled it up and added the frosting.

Be advised that this is very messy!  I found the easiest thing to do was to just use my hands to mix it all up!  It is a super moist mixture once the frosting is incorporated.  Then roll them into balls, about the size of a quarter.

Put them on a cookie sheet and refrigerate until they are very firm.  I put them in the freezer for a while.  It is really important that they are very cold before you place them in chocolate.

I used baking wafers for the chocolate.  Simply melt them and roll your chilled cake balls, one at a time, until they are completely covered.  Place on wax paper until the chocolate hardens.

There you are!  Very, very simple yet time consuming because of the various steps and wait time.  I do apologize for the icky pictures.  For some reason I just couldn't get good pictures.

What I learned:

~Make sure your cake balls are very cold before covering them in chocolate.
~You can use any flavors you like - imagine the combinations!
~White chocolate would be good too.  You can even color it if you like.
~Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate.  It works much better than the microwave.
~Use only a little bit of melted chocolate at a time as it hardens quickly.
~Practice will make them prettier (I hope!).

I would love to hear what combinations you make up!  As a side note I have to tell you that while I was taking pictures of the process my hubby states "oh is that for your Pink Saturday?"  I actually hadn't planned on it and was just going to post this week.  But, they are pink and so I figured great idea!  How cute is that?  Hubby keeping track of my PS!

Be sure to visit Beverly to see all of the great pinks this week.

Happy PS,
Jacalyn

P.S.  I am attempting the cupcake bites this weekend!  I will update you!

Beautiful Blogging ~ Fall Fashion Colors & Trends

Sadly, summer is coming to a close!  I absolutely love fall and the nesting instinct and routine that it inspires, but here in Western New York that means winter is on the way which I am not a fan of!  However, one step at a time!   I love to add pieces to my already existing fall wardrobe and I like to see which colors are new this season.  I must say that the designers do not disappoint this fall.  The colors are vibrant which lets us add that "pop" of color to our wardrobe.  I tend to favor grays, blacks, and browns in the fall so adding a pair of shoes, scarf, or sweater can take a wardrobe from dull to wow without much effort.  There are also some pretty muted colors if vibrancy is not for you.

The chart above is found at http://www.fashiontrendsetter.com/content/color_trends/2010/Pantone-Fashion-Color-Report-Fall-2010.html.  Check it out because they offer some fashion tips as well!

I must say I am in love with the Orchid and the Lagoon!  What great colors to dress up an otherwise dreary outfit!  In fact, I purchased a pair of Orchid pumps and I cannot wait to wear them.  I envision a black outfit with a "pop" of purple color via my pumps!  Ah, such little things that make me happy!  I actually can't take credit for that idea though, ha!  I was browsing through my daughter's Glamour Magazine while relaxing at the beach and an advertisement had a woman dressed in a black dress with these purple heals and it was stunning!  Fate intervened when I saw these same pumps at Kate Spade and hubby insisted he buy them for our anniversary (okay I insisted, ha)!

Which colors do you tend to favor?  Remember too that you can add to your wardrobe rather inexpensively if you think accessories.  A bracelet, scarf, necklace, purse, or whatever can add that pizazz that you're looking for!

Enjoy the remainder of summer ladies! 

Big hugs,
Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging ~ Self-Esteem Part I

Self-esteem is a term used in psychology to reflect a person's overall evaluation or appraisal of his or her own worth. Self-esteem encompasses beliefs (for example, "I am competent" or "I am incompetent") and emotions such as triumph, despair, pride and shame.* So, how's your self-esteem?  I find that time and time again, women tend to experience a negative self-esteem.  Why is that?  Well, we can all surmise a myriad of reasons; the media, our parents, our spouse, and other external circumstances.  While these may all be true, the bottom line is: WE CREATE OUR OWN SELF-ESTEEM!  Yes, ladies, it's true.  We decide our own fate and the fact of the matter is that you may be degrading yourself!

How can this be you ask?  Why the media tells me I must look like a supermodel and that's not possible.  Estee Lauder and Elizabeth Arden tell me I must use their makeup or forget it, I will be ugly forever; my parents told me I was stupid and would never amount to anything.  Yep, that's all true too.  But, as an adult we choose!  We choose to feel good about ourselves or not.  We do this by how we "talk" to ourselves or what is known as "self-talk." 

Here's a quick test you can take to measure your self-esteem.  Why don't you take a quick break and complete it and come back here. 

So, how did  you do?  I wouldn't be surprised if many did not do as well as you thought.  What to do?  The answer is simple  yet requires your time and consistency in making a permanent change.  The website you just visited (I hope) has some answers.

• Focus on achievements.  Very important! 
• Make plans for the future.  Stop procrastinating and start planning. 
• Focus on what you like about yourself and stop highlighing what you think are your defects.  We all have strengths and we all have things we would change.  So, if you can change, do it.  If you can't, why focus on it? 

Again, all of this is so true.  However, please keep in mind that our goals need to be realistic.  For example if you're a 5'4" tall and you goal is to be a supermodel, you're probably setting yourself up for failure as we all know supermodels tend to be very tall.  So be reasonable with yourself.  Set goals that you can realistically achieve.  Also, remember to establish objectives or "small steps" to that goal.  Most goals take time and energy and we feel more productive and successful  when we establish objectives.  For example, I knew since I was in high school that I wanted to obtain a Masters Degree in Social Work.  I started attending college right out of high school but was side tracked a multitude of times for various reasons.  However, I never gave up on that goal.  I focused on what I achieved rather than what my ultimate goal was and it helped me feel successful and stay focused.  Do you know old I was when I obtained my masters degree?  32 years old!  Yep, that's correct, I was 32 after starting out at 18 but I was on top of the world the day I received my diploma.  More importantly, I never gave up.

While achievements are part of how we feel about ourselves, the vast majority of our self-esteem comes from our self-talk ~ recall the old phrase "the glass is half full.  Our style of self-talk generally develops in childhood and becomes a pattern - negative or positive.  Moreover, many of us don't even realize which type we tend to engage in.  But, if your measure of self-esteem is low, you can be sure your style is negative! 

I will devote next week's Beautiful Blogging post to self-talk.  Since it impacts our self-esteem, our anxiety and stress level, and our mood, I would like to share some strategies on how to change your self-talk from negative to positive.  Remember, it's a pattern of behavior, thus we can change this pattern.

ADDED 7/29/10 - please visit my friend Pam's blog to view her post on creative coping http://kittyandmedesigns.blogspot.com/

 Have a wonderful week!

OXOXOX,
Jacalyn


*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-esteem

Beautiful Blogging

Happy Monday everyone!  Beautiful Blogging this week entails some easy at-home recipes that you can do yourself!  It is simply not necessary to spend huge sums of money to get great results with your beauty regimes!  So try these simply recipes with items you most likely already have and tell me what you think!

CHOCOLATE OATMEAL FACIAL SCRUB
Ingredients
2 tablespoons plains yogurt (for oily skin) or 3 tablespoons honey (for dry skin)
4 teaspoons ground oats
2 teaspoons white sugar
1 teaspoon powdered cocoa

Directions
Place all ingredients in a small bowl and stir vigorously to combine to a smooth paste.  Apply a layer to clean face and leave for 15 minutes or until mask has dried.  Rinse well with warm water and follow with your normal moisturizer.

FANTASTIC FEET
Ingredients
1 medium ripe papaya, peeled and chopped
1 cup canned crushed pineapple with juice
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons Epsom Salts
1 tablespoon white vinegar
2 plastic bags large enough to fit over your feet

Directions:
Place papaya and pineapple into a blender.  Add the cayenne, salt and vinegar and puree the mixture.
Divide the mix into 2 equal parts into the plastic bags.  WHILE SITTING DOWN, as you don't want to slip, place feet in bags and cover feet by moving them around.  Try sitting near the tub when you do this to prevent a big mess, ha!  Allow the mix to remain on your feet for 20 minutes.
Remove one foot at a time, and massage your foot to exfoliate.  Rinse thoroughly .  Apply your favorite foot butter and some white cotton socks!

SUPER EASY BODY POWDER
Ingredients
1 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon essential oil of your choice

Directions
Combine the cornstarch and baking soda in large bowl and stir slowly while adding the essential oil one drop at a time.  Pour the powder into a sifter powder container with holes in the top or put in a wide-mouthed powder container with a powder puff.

Feel free to leave some of your favorite recipes that other readers may enjoy!

Have a beautiful week!

Hugs,
Jacalyn
Source:  The Handmade Beauty Cookbook   Johnson, Donna Marie Coles 2004

Beautiful Blogging ~ The Beauty of the Bath

Do you think of bathing only in terms of cleansing? If so, you may be missing out on the potential benefits of bathing? Did you know that bathing has been around since 2000 B.C.? The ancient Romans, for example, used bathing as an important part of their daily ritual. They understood the therapeutic advantages of water and they created elaborate bathing rituals including the use of scented oils. Unfortunately, when the Roman Empire was overthrown in the 5th century, the tribes who conquered Rome found their obsession with cleanliness impertinent. Moreover, the church expressed disapproval of this indulgence, thus these rituals disappeared.

The 18th century saw a revival of bathing when once again the therapeutic effects of water came to light. Spas were established in Europe and the U.S. For those seeking water therapy. Also, the discovery that germs spread disease altered attitudes towards bathing. While initially seen as indulgent, rooms established solely for cleansing gained popularity and by the end of the 19th century, owning a bathroom was viewed as a status symbol.

Bathing today need not be boring nor for the sole purpose of cleaning our bodies. It should be a time to care for your body, mentally and physically! Creating your own additives can help aid some common problems. Please seek medical advice before using any of these suggestions. Some essential oils can interfere if you're pregnant or suffering from any medical problems.

~Use cleansing baths to your advantage by detoxifying too which can aid in reviving your system. Steep your herbs in hot water for 15 – 20 minutes, strain and add the liquid to your bath. Tie the herbs in a cheesecloth and attach to the faucet while you are running your water. Some examples of what to add: 2 cups of apple cider which has an energizing and cleansing effect; nutmeg or lavender which promotes perspiration and can aid in expelling toxins from your body. The added scent of the items provides a bonus!

~Moisturizing baths are important because of course bathing in hot water can be drying to your skin. I suggest using natural oils which can be found at your local supermarket or health food store. Remember to use no more that 2 teaspoons, otherwise your skin will become too greasy. For dry skin try avocado or Castor oil; for oily skin try lighter oils such as calendula or safflower; for normal skin choose almond, jojoba or apricot oil. Sea salts can also be very moisturizing and nurturing as they are high in minerals which are easily absorbed into the skin. The salts are said to ease problems such as psoriasis and eczema but they surely ease or aches and pains and leave the skin super soft! Please use caution as oils or salts may make the tub slippery.
~Relaxing Baths ~ ah there's nothing like a nice hot bath, is there? Try adding some natural products to enhance this relaxation or promote sleep! Adding camomile or lavender leaves to your bath adds therapeutic benefits as it is absorb through your skin, But breathing in the calming scents can be beneficial as well. Also, don't forget about the therapeutic qualities of essential oils too. Try adding 5 drops each of neroli, lavender, and lemon to calm and soothe!

( This photo is linked to Nourish your Spirit and has some cool lavender recipes. Click the picture to visit).
~Decongestant baths can be so helpful when you're down with the flu or a cold. Add some peppermint leaves to your bath to help stimulate and clear mucus from your nose and sinuses. Sage is a great additive when you suffer from muscle aches and pains (AVOID this if you are pregnant).

There are so many options today to enhance the quality of our bath. Take the time to enjoy your bath and reap the benefits of water therapy. You might even add to the experience by lighting scented candles or by bringing a good book and just soak in the tub for a few minutes.

OXOXOX,
Jacalyn

P.S. Please click on any picture and you'll visit the site where I obtained them.
Source: Bathing for Health, Beauty, & Relaxation Gizowska, Eva 1998

Beautiful Blogging ~ a few of my favorite things!

For this week's Beautiful Blogging Post I thought I would do a post on a few of my favorite things. As with any of us, I have a few select products that I simply cannot live without, ha! Honestly, if I were stranded on a desert island I would just have to bring my mascara! Food and water would be nice too but we all have our "must haves" and these are mine:

Sumptuous Mascara by Estee Lauder! I have literally searched for years for the perfect mascara and EL came out with this about two years ago and I haven't tried another mascara since! This gives you big, bold, long, curled lashes without too much clumping! I love, love, love it!

A couple years ago I was listening to a local radio station as the DJ was interviewing a makeup artist. His tip was to use Lash Discovery as a base coat. The tiny brush allows you to coat all of your lashes. So now, I use this as my primer because it coats every little lash and then follow with two coats of Sumptuous.

Okay, I'll admit it, this is a rather shameless plug, ha! But, truth be told this is truly one of my favorite products! I made this sugar scrub because I simply could not find one I liked. I've always hated salt scrubs because they tend to burn if you shave or have any cuts etc... on your skin. Whenever I have any dry skin, summer or winter, I use this scrub and instantly the dry skin is gone! It scrubs off all of the dead, dry skin while the oils stay behind to soften skin. I use this regularly on my legs to keep them soft! I love to put some on and leave it for a few minutes as it forms a type of "mask." I have to say, there are more choices out there these days but this of course is my fav, he he!

I have been using mineral makeup for years. But recently I discovered a new brand (you know I have to try them all, ha). Pur Minerals makes the one shown here and it's the best that I have found. I have some acne and redness and this covers it so well. I know they all claim to have great coverage but in my opinion Pur beats them all! I love the feel of mineral makeup on my skin rather than liquid makeup and I am so glad to have found this! Yay!I know, I know! I make my own bath products! But still, I love to try new items and I love to mix things up! This soak has been one of my favorites for some time. I love using it after working out or whenever my muscles are sore. It is so nurturing. The only down fall to this is not everything dissolves in the water and there is a blue residue left behind. Easy enough to clean up though. BTW, I love the whole La Source line!

Please feel free to comment as I would love to hear what every one's favorites are!

Click on any of the pictures and it will take you right to the source! I hope everyone has a wonderful week!

OXOXOX,

Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging ~ "The Eyes Have It" Part III

So far we have talked about the perfect eye shadow color for your eyes and creating the smoky eye in our Beautiful Blogging posts "The Eyes Have It." This week I would like to discuss a simply eye shadow application technique.

Ensuring you have the shade that enhances your eye color, follow these simple steps (requires 3 shades):
1. Use your foundation as an eye shadow base as this absorbs oils and allows your shadow to adhere more effectively.
2. Sweep the lightest shade from lash line to brow.
3. Take your medium shade and apply to the eyelid.
4. Use your darkest shade and sweep this color through the crease and outer portion of your eye.
5. Blend, blend, and blend again. There should be no evidence of any lines.
6. Apply eye line to top and bottom lashes. I almost always use eye shadow to line. I simply wet an eye liner brush and dip into my eye shadow then smudge for a softer look. I use dry shadow underneath my eye because it is softer. My eyes are rather small so I don't want to heavily line my eyes because they will appear even smaller.
7. Mascara is a must! Use an eyelash curler and then apply 2 coats of your favorite mascara!

*If age is catching up to you, you will notice that your eyes tend to sag a bit. Ensure that you sweep eye shadow up and out to combat this.


*For advance eye shadow application click here as this site will tell you specifically how to apply shadows for eyes that are too close, droopy, too far, etc...

That's all there is to simple eye shadow application!


Source:
One, Two
Have a beautiful week!
OXOX,
Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging ~ the "Eyes Have It" Part II ~ The Smoky Eye

Welcome to my weekly post "Beautiful Blogging." First I must apologize because if you stopped by last week you would have noticed that I did not post. Unfortunately, I was having DSL problems. Thankfully, that issue has obviously been resolved.

As promised, this post is about eye shadow application. If you recall we discussed the proper shade for your particular eye color. You can find that post here. I thought I would highlight the ever popular "smoky eye" for this post. I absolutely love this look and use it all of the time. It's important to note that you can use more than just the traditional colors of blacks/greys for the smoky eye. Think purples, greens, bronzes as long as it is the best shade for you! Also, please keep in mind that when you highlight your eyes with a smoky eye you should downplay the rest of your makeup. That means if the focus is on your eyes, don't wear bright red lipstick. Stick to one feature otherwise it can appear "clown" like.

The smoky eye is really quite easy. All you need is voluminous mascara and three shades of the same color ~ dark, medium, and light. The key to the smoky eye? Blending! You do not want to see any visible lines so blend away and then blend some more. The proper tools make this job so much easier too!

Step 1: Use a base to cover entire lid which will help eye shadow adhere and last - usually your preferred foundation is perfect for this. I see no need to purchase one specifically for the eyes.
Step 2: Take your darkest shade of shadow (or eye liner if you prefer) and line the top of your eye ensuring that you press into your lashes. There should not be a space between the lashes and your eyelid. Line underneath your bottom lashes too. I like to smudge this and take it out a little to make my eyes appear larger.
Step 3: Use your medium shadow to press into the lid of the eye, blending with the darker shade or eyeliner, until there are no visible lines. Remember to blend up and outward.
Step 4: Take the lightest shade of shadow and blend into the crease, using a "windshield wiper" motion. Some like to take this lightest shade all the way up to the brow bone. Whichever you prefer is certainly okay.
Step 5: Apply 2 coats of your volumizing mascara. When I do a smoky eye I actually apply three coats. It makes the eye a little more dramatic I think.

Here's some pictures of my little darling Erin. She prefers a more subtle makeup as you'll notice so we used bronze on her dark brown eyes. I did take some pictures of each step but regrettably they were not too clear and my model went out so I can't re-take!

Try a nude lip with this look. Remember too that your blush should be in the same color family as your lip color. So, if you are wearing a coral shade of blush DON'T wear pink lip color. I think you get the idea.

So there you have it. Keep in mind there are other techniques for a smoky eye. All are fairly similar but I like this one the best.

Next week we'll go over other easy eye shadow techniques.

Have a wonderful week!

OXOXOXOX,

Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging ~ Color Trends for Summer

This week our Beautiful Blogging post is all about summer color! I figured since Memorial Day is the "unofficial" start of summer, why not update our wardrobe with some fun color! All of the articles that I read on this indicate that designers are really in-tune with the economy and our personal struggles (not financial of course, ha). This means that they are turning to colors that are seen as "optimistic." I am sure you have all been to the mall recently and have seen some of the "optimistic" colors in hues of blues, greens, and corals. Personally, I am in love! Even makeup counters are reflecting this. The amazing array of vibrant colors is fabulous such as bright purple, hot pink, and sunny golds. Love, love, love, love it!



This color palette is from fashionising.com (just click on the image and you can go visit them). You can see that the top row is more vibrant while the bottom is more neutral. The violet and the turquoise are my favorites! How about a pop of those colors to make you feel alive and er, well, optimistic, ha!
For those of us on a budget (and who isn't????), virtually all retailers will be carrying some shades of these colors. As such, you can add these to your existing wardrobe. Think shells, t-shirts, costume jewelry, scarfs, handbags etc... Simply take the neutrals you already own and add some color. How about some white shorts with a turquoise t-shirt? Tan pants with a coral handbag? Navy blue with yellow earrings and/or shoes? I am not a "yellow" person and I NEVER buy yellow clothing. But, I am sure loving the yellows that I have seen in shoes, belts, and handbags. What a great "pop" of color that would add to virtually any outfit! I love neutrals too because it is so easy to add color with accessories for very little money!

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge what Memorial Day is all about. We all love to picnic, go to the beach, plant our gardens and shop for our favorite summer colors! But, please take time to remember all of our heroes who have given their lives to protect our country! To all of our service men and women, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Happy Memorial Day!
Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging ~

Welcome to this week's BB post! To start, I did choose a winner from last week's posts yesterday afternoon but I haven't heard back from her. If I don't hear back by later today I will draw another name! BTW, thank you for all of your great suggestions last week! I do plan on addressing them in future posts so please check back each week!

This week's BB is a few tips on managing stress! We all experience stress everyday in our lives! I often tell my clients that just getting out of bed in our society is stressful! How many of us jump out of bed and immediately begin thinking about the day's "to-do" list? We all seem to try to jam as much as we can into our day. Did you know that when we are stressed our heart rate and blood pressure rise! Plus, we are releasing adrenaline too. That is why stress can lead to physiological problems, like hypertension, down the road. So here are my suggestions and please feel free to add your own!

• Make yourself a priority! I can't tell you how many times women tell me "I just don't have time." The reality really is that you MUST make time. If we don't care for ourselves how in the world can we possibly take care of anyone or anything else!
• Exercise! I know, I know, we hear this all of the time but the fact is that it's such an important ingredient in our lives! Exercise relieves stress, releases endorphins (the "feel good" hormone), and helps us manage a healthy weight. Of course you don't need to go to the gym. There are oodles of ways to achieve this ~ gardening, bike riding, walking, engaging in sports etc... Find what YOU like and do it!
• Avoid caffeine! Yep, I am the original caffeine queen and I know most of us like to indulge! But, when you're stressed or anxious adding caffeine to the mix via coffee, tea, chocolate etc.. will only further aid to your problems. Caffeine of course is a stimulant so imagine what your rev-ed up body already feels and then add more!
• Deep breathe! This is huge! When we are stressed we tend to have very shallow breathing so deep breathing immediately calms us. Here's a great breathing exercise to try but remember you don't have to lie down. Just make sure that you sit comfortable and allow the exercise to work.
• Plan a fun activity! Make sure you schedule enjoyable activities in your schedule. We all need something to look forward to. Plus, it can help us get through those less enjoyable activities!
• Laugh! It truly is one of the best "medicines" we can use! So socialize, play, laugh. All great ways to relieve stress!
• Self-nurture! This means you do something EVERYDAY that makes YOU feel good. This doesn't have to be a long activity but it has to be something that is meaningful to you and only you can define what is meaningful to you. Personally, I love mindless computer games and a long hot bubble bath with a good book!

There really are many, many ways to relieve stress as I have only listed a few. The most important thing to remember is to pay attention to your body and LISTEN to what it is saying. Tight shoulders, shallow breathing, upset stomach, etc... are all ways our body is telling us that we are stressed. Now that you've heard, what will you do?

Have a wonderful week!
Hugs,
Jacalyn

Beautiful Blogging at RME Boutique

I've decided to start a weekly post on health and beauty items that hopefully will be of interest to my blogging friends, called ~ Beautiful Blogging! I just love makeup, skin care, shoes, clothes, exercise techniques and such. I spend a lot of time reading about the latest trends and I thought I would share what I find! Please feel free to leave me comments re: if you like, don't like, a topic you'd like to hear about etc... Of course, as a mental health professional I will surely throw some in some tips for managing stress, anxiety, depression etc...

This week's Beautiful Blogging post is all about Summer Skin Care so read up and get going on your beautiful skin!

Here's my essential skin care tips:
~Exfoliate! This is essential because we are constantly re-newing skin cells and if we don't remove them, our skin looks dull! So, used a sugar or salt scrub a couple times a week to re-new your skin!


~Shave! Many of us slack off on this in the winter so now is the time to begin again! Make sure you use a good razor, not the cheap, disposable ones, to ensure a smooth shave. Additionally, use a good shave gel/cream and avoid using soap. Soap can be drying and doesn't provide the best protection against nicks and cuts!
~Moisturize! Again this is essential to keep our skin soft! Make sure you moisturize right out of the bath or shower to lock-in the moisture!
~Use sunless Tanner! We all know the dangers of sun-bathing and tanning beds and quite frankly we don't need to do that! There are so many great sunless tanning lotions on the market today that it is just a matter of preference in choosing one. Click here for a great tutorial on how to apply sunless tanning lotion.


~Don't forget your feet! If you can't afford a professional pedicure do it yourself! Purchase a good foot scrub, pumice stone (or the Ped-Egg which I love!) and lotion made specifically for your feet! If you're like me, you love all those strappy sandals and our feet must look well-groomed! Don't forget to apply that fabulous shade to your toenails to finish it off! Try fuchsia or coral, both of which are very popular this year!
~Check your Sun Block! Did you know that Sun Block has an expiration date? It is probably best to purchase a new one each summer and check the date on the bottle! Oh yea, don't forget to use it while outdoors!!!!!! Re-apply every 1 - 2 hours!
I hope this helps you in getting "your glow on" this summer!
A couple of administrative notes: Source for post: click here Also, click any picture and it will take you to the site from which I obtained them. I want to make sure I give credit where credit is due!
Please stop back for Pink Saturday on Saturday of course! And, check back next week for a new Beautiful Blogging post!
Have a happy week,
Jacalyn