Drug Store Beauty Booty

As much as I love shopping at Sephora, Apothica, and any department store beauty counter, the stuff adds up fast and leaves my bank account quite drained.  I thought I would share some of my latest drug store products that will still leave you with a little left for drinks out with the girls or boy. 

I bought the CVS version of the Aveeno Skin Brightener Daily Scrub and I really enjoy it.  You can use it everyday and your skin doesn't feel red or raw or like you left half of it in the drain.  I told B once it felt like little fingers massaging my face when I used it and he agreed, but instead said it felt like little angels massaging your face.  You be the judge.

My allergies have been an absolute nightmare lately (see below) and sometimes my skin feels extra itchy and irritated.  Sweet relief has been provided to me by St. Ives Oatmeal & Shea Butter Moisturizing Body Wash.  The scent is oh so yummy and leaves your skin silky, moisturized and best of all - not itchy! 

Did I also mention that a big bottle will run you less than $3?  I got mine on sale for $1.89!  I have a travel size of the lotion and it is equally awesome and worth purchasing for under $5.

Santa (AKA my beauty savvy mother) left Boots No7 Protect & Perfect Beauty Serum in my stockings this past Christmas and said it had been in all the beauty magazine and received rave reviews.  I have been using the serum every morning under my daily moisturizer and will say that while I haven't necessarily noticed any actual changes to my skin, I do love the added protection it provides against LA's toxic air. 

I read the reviews and most buyers only have positive things to say about it.  Perhaps the key is to use it both in the AM and the PM to see results... I am on the fence whether I should buy it again.

I have not purchased face powder in a really long time and I have to admit I am kind of clueless about what works well and what I need.  I love Smashbox's Halo Powder because it doesn't leave my skin flaky and dry and actually hydrates your skin throughout the day.  I don't love spending $60 on the product (but I do think it is still the best product on the market and worth it) and opted to try Revlon's Revlon ColorStay Aqua Mineral Makeup which is pretty much a dream.  

It comes with it's own brush in the lid and feels like you are putting on liquid makeup and yet it is powder.  The formula is oddly refreshing and a steal of a deal at $11.  I like to use this powder on the weekends without any tinted moisturizer and it provides great coverage and simple, dewy glow that we all desire.  When I use it during the work week, I only apply it on my nose and chin as it seems to sometimes fall into my wrinkles in my forehead instead of floating on top of them.  

I saw this tube of L'Oreal Extend Eye Illuminator Mascara at CVS (they really have a great beauty rewards program FYI) before I even heard of the product or saw the Beyonce commercial.  Mascara that makes my eyes sparkle, done and done. 

I opted to go the safe route and purchased the Black Crystal (Black with gun metal gray shimmer).  Unfortunately I didn't notice anything dramatic adding the sparkle and it most definitely did not turn out as the commercial promises.  The base mascara is a great mascara for everyday however and having the option to spice it up for a night out isn't too shabby of an idea.  Miss K did a much better review of the product with pictures and everything, if you are on the fence, head over there and see what you think.  After I read her review I think I may try out a bolder shimmer end next time. 

Last but most certainly not least, my trusty Zyrtec has saved my life the past two weeks.  The rain has stirred up every ounce of dust or pollen that I am allergic to and left me miserable and out of it.  Sweet Zyrtec has provided me some relief and the ability to not miss a day of work (although I did miss a Saturday night out). 

Word Up Wednesday

{via}

{via}

dare i say spring has actually sprung?  73 degrees outside and 83 degrees tomorrow!

{via}

my gf Spry sent me this quote a long time again and i just really like it.  there is no end really...

 

{via}

love.

{via}

my body has a clear way of telling me when i am stressed.  it happened yesterday and this little gem of advice couldn't have come at a more perfect time.

Happy hump day to all of you! Muah!

Song Of The Week: Don't Stop The Music {Cover}

When Rihanna's Don't Stop The Music came out I just couldn't get enough of the song.  It appears the radio stations in LA felt the same way and played it every sixth song in rotation.  I was pleasantly pleased to hear the song again, this time a jazzy cover of Don't Stop The Music by Jamie Cullum.

I first listened to Jamie's when he covered Pharell's Frontin'.  I loved how he took a hip rap song and turned it into something my parents would enjoy listening to.  I love to listen to his albums while I am cooking or reading and I often times find myself tapping my foot or swaying to the music without realizing it. 

Just easy listening by a very talented gent. 

Flashing Brights

According to the calendar, spring sprung on Sunday...

According to my window, spring has yet to arrive in L.A.

The wind, rain and grey, leaves me craving anything and everything bright and sunny!

(click picture to enlarge)

1st Row: Scarf, Candle, Shimmer Tee, Pack Away Bag

2nd Row: Dress, Clutch, Books, Pumps

3rd Row: Bowls, Wedges, Sweater, Trench Motorcycle Jacket

4th Row: Undies, Lip Gloss, Thongs , Nail Polish

Has spring sprung at your location yet?  What do you have your eye one this spring?

Word Up Wednesday ~ Elizabeth Taylor

{via}

So much to do, so little done, such things to be. ~ Elizabeth Taylor

{via}

I think I'm finally growing up - and about time. ~ Elizabeth Taylor

I fell off my pink cloud with a thud. ~ Elizabeth Taylor

{via}

I have a woman's body and a child's emotions. ~ Elizabeth Taylor

I adore wearing gems, but not because they are mine. You can't possess radiance, you can only admire it.     ~ Elizabeth Taylor

{via}

I feel very adventurous. There are so many doors to be opened, and I'm not afraid to look behind them.

~ Elizabeth Taylor

{via}

I'm a survivor - a living example of what people can go through and survive. ~ Elizabeth Taylor

{via}

When people say, 'She's got everything', I've got one answer - I haven't had tomorrow. ~ Elizabeth Taylor

You'll be missed Elizabeth.

Song Of The Week: The Man Who Sold The World {Cover}

Growing up in Seattle during the whole "grunge" "garage band" time was pretty awesome.  I totally wore the baggy jeans, flannel shirts, and dirty hair look for a few months, until my mother promised me an entire new wardrobe if I wore something that actually fit and wasn't from my father closet. 

Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Alice in Chains could all be heard blaring from my yellow Sony Walkman or from my 5 Disc CD Changer in my room growing up and my favorite album for the longest time (and still high up on the list today) was Nirvana's MTV Unplugged in New York.  I listened to it with my boyfriend Trevor my freshman year and loved it when he would sing Lake Of Fire in this funny voice.

The album is still amazing and I had forgotten full of many covers, one of my faves is David Bowie's The Man Who Sold The World (1999 Digital Remaster).  Nirvana's The Man Who Sold The World was a change from their normal style and could almost be considered soothing.  I think the Nirvana MTV Unplugged in New York showed how truly talented the band was and made my parents maybe not think the music was such garbage. 

This album is truly fantastic and a wonderful piece to have in your collection.  RIP Kurt.

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Help Japan

{via}

I am moving offices at work today and caught myself saying it was the worst day ever.  Then it dawned on me that my day was nothing in comparison to what the people of Japan have been dealing with.  I quickly realized how lucky I am, and quit my bitching immediately. 

When I went to select today's Forever Frugal Find I was greeted with an excellent news.  Today only (March 18th) every dollar you spend at Forever 21 will go toward the earthquake and tsunami efforts in Japan.  That means by shopping your little heart out you will be helping the people of Japan.  So awesome.  

So please if you have time, order something for a friend, sister, boyfriend, co-worker or yourself because the more you spend the more Japan gets.  

A few of my fave new arrivals:

Belted Flutter Dress

Two Tone Watch

UCLA pulled out the win last night (barely) and earned me some points in my bracket.  This Vintage UCLA Tee would be great for any fan of the Bruins.

I have Ohio State winning all three of my brackets with the University of Kansas as the runner up.  This raglan is not only darling but looks so comfy and perfect for watching games at the bar. 

If you want to donate more than just your shopping purchases, please text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 or go to redcross.org.

Every bit counts! 

The Luck of the Irish

Happy St. Patty's to all!  While I am an idiot and forgot to wear any green today, I have many things to be happy and thankful for today including Marge's birth and my parents 28th wedding anniversary! 

Hope you all get to enjoy a pint of Guinness or a shot of Bailey's today! 

Cheers!

Word Up Wednesday

{via}

it's really that simple

{via}

{via}

{via}

{via}

sore.  i worked something last night....

Put Your Mind To It Go For It...

Get down and break a sweat, is exactly what I do whenever I attend Circuit Works.

Last month I mentioned that I had purchased a Groupon to Circuit Works in Venice in order to make my mantra come true.  Two Thursdays ago I hit up the Abbot Kinney location with my girl Christy and let me just tell you this work out kicked my ass!

This hour long class combines, weightlifting, spinning and treadmill running all together in 40 second intervals.  You never stop for an hour. 

I have now attended 3 classes (make it 4 after tonight) and I absolutely have a love/hate relationship with this workout.  I love how hard I work, how sweaty I get, the loud music and the workers.  I hate how sweaty and red-faced I get, as well as the bruises I leave class with hopping on and off the spin bikes. 

Circuit Works is so motivating and I leave class feeling energized and good about myself and I leave knowing that I just worked it out. 

This is Raphael Verela, the man who developed Circuit Works and teaches my Saturday 8:15 AM class.  The class that I almost threw up in this past Saturday.  He is a bit of drill sergeant but extremely motivating and full of smiles once class is over.  He just better never see you walking to your next station (heed my warning)...

If you live in LA and are needing that extra boost to get your fitness routine in motion I really would suggest trying Circuit Works as it has fully given me a new take on exercise.  They have 2 locations, one in Brentwood that my girl Spry attends and another in Venice on Abbott Kinney.  Added bonus, your first class is FREE!  Why not try it out? 

Also a special shout out to my girl Christy for being my loyal workout companion - I wouldn't be as motivated without you!  Project Hot Bod starts now!!

If You're Going to San Francisco....

And I am!!! B just booked our flights to San Francisco! I am so excited!!

I am a bit embarrassed to admit this, but in the 8 years I have lived in LA I haven't once been up to San Fran!  In fact the last time I was in San Fran that I can remember was like 21 years ago! FAIL!

B and I are headed up to San Fran Sunday-Tuesday for my little birthday getaway and I need your help!  We will be staying in Union Square but are open to traveling wherever!  I am hoping to fit in a Giants vs Dodgers game on Monday the 11th and other than that we are wide open!

What restaurants must we eat at?  What coffee shops have the best drip coffee out there?  What romantic place should we grab a cocktail?  Any must see museums?  Please, please, please leave me any recommendations here!

Thanks so much!

Song Of The Week: I'm On Fire {Cover}

I have always loved some early Bruce Springsteen tunes. Picking a favorite Boss song is difficult as he is quite a talented fella. However, I think if I was really forced to select just one song, it would most likely be I'm On Fire.  I think the melody and soft whisper of his voice is just gorgeous. 

While I think the Boss holds the crown for best version of I'm On Fire, I recently heard John Mayer's cover (available exclusively on itunes) and my friends it ain't too shabby.  Ever since this past August when I saw John Mayer live at the Hollywood Bowl, his albums can frequently be heard playing softly (it is an office after all) from my desk.  Say what you will about John, but the guy has skills and I will forever be a fan of his as long as he continues putting out great music. 

Happy Monday my luvies!!

Forever Frugal Friday

Last weekend I hit up Forever for some new additions to the closet and walked out with three pieces that I am quite pleased with (including this top I posted about last week - love it!).

I brought home this Retro Swing Dress dress which I would have never given a second glance at had Miss Cassie not passed it under the dressing room door to me.  Turns out I LOVE the simplicity and ease of this dress.  I am planning to sport this little dress with a new camel braided belt from H&M and my Steve Madden Intyce boots and most likely my new fave Unisex Striped Circle Scarf from American Apparel. 

I cannot wait for spring to arrive!

Word Up Wednesday

{via}

to put it bluntly....

{via}

{via}

{via}

{via}

mmm...chocolate.  i celebrated "fat tuesday" at The Yard with this gal, and bid adieu to chocolate until Easter Sunday with the killer dessert below...

chocolate cake with peanut butter ganache filling, marshmallow fluff and banana ice cream. 

worth.every.single.calorie.

Song Of The Week: Whip My Hair {Cover}

I pride myself in enjoying almost all genres of music.  The only music I tend to avoid of not listen to is heavy metal.  I mean every once in a while you can find me jamming out to some Metallica, but that's about as hard as I get...until I heard this spectacular cover of Willow Smith's Whip My Hair by Skull Tape. 

I was not a fan of the original song and it drove me crazy whenever I heard it on the radio, this version however, kicks major ass and totally has me wanting to whip my hair back and forth in the car listening.  The song at moments is a little hardcore and not for all but then at different times mellow and quite lovely. 

You can download the song free here and get to whipping your hair back and forth as soon as possible. 

Happy {Heart} Weekend

{via}

This weekend I am filling myself with things I love....AKA friends, food, B and fun!

Hope you have a spectacular weekend with those you love! 

XOXO