What's Up Wednesday: January 2017 Edition

Hey remember that What's Up Wednesday thing I used to do. It happens at the end of every month and you link up on well, Wednesday. But around here ... when you're so excited for Demo Day you might pee your pants - you completely overlook Wednesday and forget to hit publish because you can't wait to hit publish on your Demo Day post! So, for fun - I'm sharing What's Up Wednesday on Friday ... and that's just how it's gotta be. K?! So as a refresher, on the last Wednesday (or Friday if you're me) we all link up and talk about these topics:

What We're Eating This Week: Uhm, out. Just eating out in general. We've moved into this little guest house of my parents and I don't have all of my things. I'm using pots and pans that aren't mine. A stove that I'm not used to cooking on. I've only halfway figured out our routine and grocery runs ... so I've lost my kitchen mojo. And therefore dinner often consists of handfuls of nuts and berries until one of us can't stand it and we order a pizza. Or we just go out. And way too often. Hopefully I'll get it together and stop doing that ... but I make no promises.

What I'm reminiscing about: The Bahamas.

My parents head down to their island home this time every year for a couple of months and we've been joining them during the month of February every year for about 3-4 years now. This year we took a year off, with the move, the health stuff and everything else it was just too much. They send us pictures constantly of all of our favorite places and the fun they're having and I'm thinking back on previous trips and wishing we were there too.

• 2013
• 2014
• 2015
• 2016 ( Part 1 and Part 2 and Part 3)

What I'm loving: Lipstick! Ha, is that weird? A girlfriend of mine turned me onto this lip stuff and I'm kind of into it. And that's coming from a gal that hardly ever wears anything but Vaseline on her lips! I'm hoping to gather some pictures, more info and share with ya'll a full post of my new found love. And, they won't be as creepy as this terrifying selfie. Promise.

What we've been up to: Life. Ya'll I've been telling you we're settled and to be fair, we are. But it still feels new and still has me kind of all over the place. I just got a text last night from Caroline and she was like "uhm hi, we used to be friends do you remember me!?" Haha! Guilty. There are times I'm convinced our lives are being controlled by alien puppet strings because I feel so all over the place. I was looking through pictures on my cell phone the other day and I took a picture of this. Like what? Why did I need a picture of that? I mean it's kind of funny, but was that really worth taking a picture of? Clearly I had more important things to waste my cell phone batter on than this magnet that I can assure you I did not buy. At least I don't remember buying it? Some day, some time I'll get back to normal I swear!

What I'm dreading: February 6 -- it's been three months and that means we're back with the doctors. Womp.

What I'm working on: The new house! Obviously! All things house. House house house.

What I'm excited about: The house! DEMO DAY IS SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY!!!!!!! (ahem, this post was written before Thursday obviously, but since I forgot to share - you can now read about that in the link).

What I'm watching/reading: Hubs and I just watched Inferno last night and I really liked it! It's filmed in Florence (be still my heart) so clearly it had me hook line and sinker from the beginning. I spent 6 months in Florence my sophomore year of college and hubs and I went back about four years ago and I can still smell the city if I close my eyes and think about it. But the movie was pretty good too, ha!

What I'm listening to: White Collar. I started this series right when we moved back to Louisville, and I've been watching it on my phone A LOT. Headphones in, show on. It's one of those series I don't have to be glued to the TV to know what's going on - so it's a good "on the go" show.

What I'm wearing: Heck I don't know. The weather goes from 60 degrees one day to 30 the next - so having a real "wardrobe" currently is a bit of a challenge. Jess and I were chatting yesterday about how sad we are we feel like we haven't been able to really bust out the sweaters this year. Mother Nature you're messing with my vibe. Get your act together.

What I'm doing this weekend: We've got a pretty busy weekend lined up. We've got a big party Friday, B's basketball game Saturday am, dinner plans Saturday night with some pals I can't wait to see and a little house/appliance/etc. shopping Sunday!

What I'm looking forward to next month: It's love month! A month where we get to be obnoxious with pink and red and fun arts and crafts with the littles. Extra treats and extra kisses. Sign us up! I realize Valentine's day is such a commercial holiday and totally silly (I completely agree) - but having kids and making it fun for them is really really fun. I've also got two people really close to me that are due with their littles next month (Hey MaK and Andrea!) and I'm so excited to meet them!

What else is new: I think that about covers it! Lipstick, house renos and baby snuggles! Whhoooop!

**Linking up with Shay, Shaeffer, and Mel

Stitch Fix - Number 1

Happy Monday gang!! It's been a LONG weekend around here to say the least. I'll give you the full rundown on that once I finally have a few moments to myself. But for now, I'm simply gonna hit publish on this little diddy I wrote a few weeks ago.

Mama got me such a fun Valentine's Day gift this year! She signed us up for Stitch Fix and said it would be something fun we could do together every couple of months.  When I lived in Louisville we always found time to stop in a boutique or hit up a cute store every now and again. But, now that I'm in Nashville it's a little more challenging for us to pick up on a whim and get it done. So this is a fun way for us to "shop together" and giggle over fun, cute finds. Thanks mama for thinking of me even when I'm far away. 

For those of you that are unfamiliar, Stitch Fix works like this ... as written on their website:

Stitch Fix is the first fashion retailer to blend expert styling, proprietary technology and unique product to deliver a shopping experience that is truly personalized for you. Simply fill out the Stitch Fix Style Profile and our personal stylists will handpick a selection of five clothing items and accessories unique to your taste, budget and lifestyle. You can buy what you like and return the rest!

1. Fill out your Style Profile - Begin by filling out the Style Profile. This helps us understand your size, style, shape, budget and lifestyle. Completing your profile should only take about 10 minutes.

2. Pick the date you’d like to receive your shipment - We’ll send you a selection of five clothing items and accessories handpicked by personal stylists on the date you choose. At the time your stylist selects your items, you will be charged a $20 styling fee. That $20 will be applied as a credit toward anything you keep from your shipment.

3. Try everything on in the comfort of your home - We encourage you to try on everything our personal stylists have picked for you because you just never know what will look great on! Create new outfits by pairing what’s in your shipment with the items that are already in your closet.

4. Buy what you like and return the rest

• Take three days to decide what you’ll purchase and what you’d like to send back. You’re only charged for these items when you tell us what you’re keeping and returning.
• Check out by logging in to your account to pay for those items you want to keep. The $20 styling fee will be applied as credit towards any items you purchase. If you buy all five items, we’ll give you 25% off the entire purchase!
• Simply return the items you don't want in our pre-paid mailing bag and drop it at any USPS mailbox. Stitch Fix clients enjoy free shipping both ways as a benefit of using our service!

5. Tell us what you think! - Don't forget to give us specific feedback on each of the items you receive. Our personal stylists are able to send you better selections when we know what did and didn’t work for you, and why. Our blog offers a number of tips on the best ways to communicate with your personal stylist. If you choose to receive regularly scheduled shipments, we will automatically schedule the delivery date for your next shipment. You can always choose an alternative date that better suits your needs or opt out of regularly scheduled shipments entirely. Stitch Fix does not require a membership fee or a monthly subscription.

So, I was so excited when I got home from the Bahamas and my first one was waiting on my door step! EEEK!

Item #1: Bancroft, Leighton Metal Bauble Necklace (returned)

Item #2: Market & Spruce, Baka Henley Top

Item #3: Market & Spruce, Elmira Jacket (returned)

The designer did a good job with this one. It is super cute and totally up my alley. But, I literally own something almost identical and have several hunter green tops already, so it just didn't quite make the cut. Sowwy. 

Item #4: 41Hawthorne, Renesme Geo Cube Print Faux Wrap Dress (returned)

Item #5: Henry & Belle, Jaylie Skinny Jean (returned)

While these jeans were really cute, I have a jean addiction and own way too many pair. Ask any of my high school friends and they can attest this and sweat pant hoarding is a real problem for me. So, I committed to myself before even starting this process ... unless the jeans fit me PERFECT or are completely different (style, look, color) than something I already own ... I will not be keeping jeans. 

So, while my first Stitch Fix wasn't the most successful in regards to "kept pieces", I'm not closing the book just yet. It was still super fun and there's no membership fee or monthly subscription so why not participate?! Such a great concept and fun way for momma and I to continue our bad habits, even if we're miles away! Love you momma ... and new Baka top! Hehe. 

Pipe Cleaners and Visine

Okay, so while I was trying to persuade Le Baby Bennessio (pretty sure I just combined French and Italian) that white cheddar rice cakes were just as good as the Cheeto's puffs his PaPaw had been feeding him, Rachael Ray was on in the background. Disclaimer: I am NOT a Rachael fan, but she comes on immediately following Kelly and Michael, so her show often stays on in the background while I go about my day.

So, while I was feeding Le Baby Bennessio said rice cake, a segment on Rachael caught my attention: Pipe Cleaners and Visine. I know, weird. Bear with me. 

First, Pipe Cleaners. She had two of her little friends on the show that were all "spring cleaning" and over organizing everything under the sun. Seriously, one of the girls was discussing how she felt it was necessary to put bins inside her refrigerator so everything had a spot. Uhm, okay because that's realistic. Clearly she lives alone, because my husband would have a heart if I told him he was now responsible for placing the turkey not only back in the fridge but also in a labeled bin named "deli meats" and if he dares to put it in the bin labeled "cheese" he is disrupting the entire system. HA! Ladies be CRAZZZY.

Her next brilliant and masterful trick involved hangers and pipe cleaners. This time she was organizing her pals closest and just COULDN'T BELIEVE she was using wire hangers. Right, because no one ever uses wire hanger, are you serious right now lady!? Although I do agree, I would much prefer the fancy plastic kind, or the fuzzy ones that add some extra grip to your silky shirts, those things are few and far between. So, if my clothes make it to the hanger and/or are placed on there from my dry cleaner, they REMAIN in the wire hanger, sue me. But, her point she was making was a valid one...
She agreed, people use wire hangers. She agreed, the ideal hangers are expensive. She agreed, there was nothing we could do about either of those facts. So, she had a solution. Simply wrap a pipe cleaner around the edges of your wire hangers and create your own fancy hangers. Sort of genius. Also sort of ridiculous and a lot sort of time consuming. But, pretty ingenious at the same time. Moral of the story: it's a neat trick if you're re-purposing your hangers for anything other than marshmallow sticks around a campfire.

Additional side note on donating clothes. She made an excellent point: When you switch you spring/summer wardrobe out with fall/winter put all of your hangers facing the wall (the hard awkward way to hang something) and then once you wear it, hang it back up the opposite way (the normal way to hang a hanger). At the end of the season, any clothing items that are still facing the awkward way should be donated, because hellooooo you're not wearing them! Genius!

Okay, now that we have all agreed this is genius but, we are never going to do it let me share with you something you actually may try. Item numero dos: Visine.

Her next guess was a celebrity makeup artist that was answering questions from RR's audience members with tricks of the industry. One of the guests hops down on the stage and discusses how she always has problems covering up red zits and they always look swollen. The makeup artist lady went on to share the way she handles this is to dip a Qtip and saturate it in Visine, put the Qtip in the freezer for 30 minutes or so (She said she leaves 5-6 in her freezer at all times, but again I don't think I'll be doing that) and then place the Qtip on the area ... APPARENTLY the frozen part takes down the swelling and the Visine takes the red out. Sayyy whhhaaaaa. It sounds so crazy that it really just may work. Watch it here. Do you think it's too good to be true? Watch it here.

Welp, there you go. Pipe Cleaners and Visine. Happy Tuesday!

Bright Eyes

My newest love: Bare Minerals Stroke of Light Eye Brightener

I use the Luminous 2 light/yellow and I am now OBSESSED. It gives my sometimes tired mommy eyes just a little bit of POP and makes me feel all ZINNNGGGG.

I put it in the corner of my eyes to give them a little somethin' and feel all purdy. If you're looking for a little somethin' extra for your eyes, I'd recommend giving this bad boy a shot!

Jubilant Jammies

When I was pregnant people would always tell me, get as much sleep as you can now, because you won't get any once the baby is here. I used to get SO ANNOYED when people would say that ... like you can't "bank" sleep people. Gahhh ... new material PUHLEASE!

Yes, I do get less sleep now that little man is here. What were my routine weekend naps and occasional "I had a rough day" I'll just sleep it off after work catnaps are now basically non-existent.  And sleeping until 8:30am on a Saturday makes me feel like the luckiest woman alive.

Haha, it's really not that bad. And truth be told, Bennett is a ROCKSTAR sleeper, for realz.  But your routine does change. Anywhoodles, one day in the midst of a very sleepy eyed morning, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror ... HOLY HORROR. Hair matted to my head, leftover eyeliner running halfway down my face and my holey UK t-shirt I've had since 8th grade mixed with some over sized sweatpants and house slippers made for a real life Cinderella.  It was in that very moment, I decided it was time to invest in some real-life jammies.

Now that I am spending a generous amount of morning and evening hours awake with the wee one, I want to be comfortable.  My go-to was sweats and a tee. Now, don't get me wrong I will NEVER ever get rid of said attire, because there are certain days in life when that UK tee and my dad's old grey sweatpants are the only thing that can bring me comfort. However, for the mere sake of sparing my husbands eyes, I could probably try and spruce up the look when I am sporting my jammies for longer periods of time.

I purchased a couple of options from Target, but after I wore them once, they have remained in the drawers. I couldn't get into it. They weren't comfortable, or as comfortable as I wanted and I just couldn't make the switch from my beloved sleep tees.  But two weeks ago I ran into Vicky Secrets to redeem my free undies voucher I'd received in the mail, when my little hand happened to brush against PJ HEAVEN!

The Supersoft Sleepshirt - Body by Victoria Holy incredible. It embodied everything I was looking for: softness, cuteness, comfiness, perfect coverage, you name it - it had it. I am now OBSESSED and want more. It comes in 4 colors (I currently only have black) because $45 bone to spend on something I sleep in seemed steep. But I fully plan to request this for Christmas. And how cute would it be to add a little monogram as well? Gush.

Okay, I'm off to cuddle up in my bed, in my jubilant jammies and dream of a day that includes naps once again.

Lotion Potion

Soft kitty, warm kitty, little ball of furrrrr. Tired kitty, sleepy kitty, purr, purr, purrrrr.

I have had that horribly awesome Big Bang Theory song stuck in my head all the live long day.  And I think it's because somewhere in my twisted head I have connected the song to my current obsession. The obsession began about a year ago and I just spent nearly 10 minutes trying to find where I've talked about it on my blog before to no avail, so sorry if the following is repetitive from my previous description {note to self .. start utilizing your tags and searches better Katie, GeeZe}.

Let me explain ... Penny and I randomly discovered this hand cream a year ago, and we've been avid users ever since. True Blue Shea Cashmere .. Amaze. The smell is positively heavenly. So much so, I have truly considered eating my hands.  Throwing it back to my obsession stage in which I would have literally eaten anything with peanut butter on it.  Or, just straight up taking a chunk out of my chubby little hands and legit biting my fingers, kind of like this little guy ... too much?  Probably.

Not only is the smell intoxicating, but the lotion itself makes your hands truly feel like cashmere. Just such a great great feeling. That being said, I was putting on said lotion this morning while singing Sheldon's kitty song and the line "soft kitty, warm kitty" kind of seemed fitting. Yes, I realize how incredibly weird and bizarre I sound right now, but I had to share. First, because I needed everyone to know how great the products are. Second, because I find some sick and twisted comfort in knowing maybe one of you may now have the song stuck in your head too. And third, because they've added new products to the line {or maybe I'm just discovering them}. Regardless, I just purchased the shampoo/conditioner and the body cream which I will be trying out ASAP. Excited is an understatement.

Okay the weirdest post ever is now complete. Carry on.

Fall Tootsies

I did it. I made the switch and committed to a fall color on my tootsies. 

bahama mama

a warm, rich, creamy deep plum

It took me a few days to get used to and get back in the fall groove, but now I'm digging it. Plus with a name like Bahama Mama it's letting a little bit of summer linger in the background.  

What are some of your favorite fall colors? 

Simple Summer

Mommyhood has introduced me to an entirely new meaning of finding the appreciation for the "Au naturale" look.  Between finding ways to make spit up look as though they are a part of your shirt pattern and styling your unwashed ponytail to make it appear you're "put together"; I've had to get crafty with my purchases so strangers don't see me in public and put change in Bennett's bottle.

Luckily, I've found some great items that help ... or well, they make me feel a little better :)  Here are my current favorite staples that I'm frequently sporting.

Nike Golf Dri-Fit Hat

This is a must on certain days. It fits my head perfectly without being too bulky and comes in plenty of additional colors. I sport team Grey.

L'Oreal Colour Riche Lip Balm - #218 Rose Elixir

The perfect amount of shine and color to make you look extra natural and still feel pretties :)

Athleta Support Tops - Peek Tank

I'm loving this style and also purchased a few more. I look like I just frequented the gym, so I'm forgiven on the rest of my appearance and it's got a built in bra so that's one less thing I have to worry about ... SCORE

Women's Smocked Maxi Tube Dresses

No big news here. Just a simple and cheap maxi that works SUPER easy for daytime and makes me look like I have it together. And I can add a necklace at night time and again, LOOK like I have it together. Plus, the way it fits ain't too shabby because it helps to flatter my still a bit doughy post-baby belly.

So there ya have it. My simple summer must haves.

Quinn's Ingredients to BEAUTIMOUS

Meet our Asian beauty, Quinn.  My fashionista friend who has a SERIOUS knack for online shopping ... or maybe just shopping in general.  I'm talking you think you saw some lady at the mall in a cute top, describe it in horrible detail that even an episode of unsolved mysteries would come up empty handed. And, she's still able to find either the exact same top or something similar that's even better. Quinn has an infectious laugh and is great at putting you in a good mood.  If you're looking for new material, check out her blog: QUINNtessential.  She'll be sure to keep you on your fashion twinkle toes.  Now, pay close attention - because just like fashion - she knows her beauty!

Annnnd drum roll, for the last time you have to hear me say this - this week:  y'all should know the routine by now but if not, I had each gal send me a list with their descriptions and links to their favorite products. I put together their "favorite things" collage (to make all of the posts look the same) but from here on out - Cutie Pie Quinn be Chattin:

1. Shimmer Blush Powder 
• I am currently using this blush in DollyMix and I am loving the color. I have always loved MAC's blushes because they are so blend-able. You can have a subtle hint of tint or a bold cheek with how sheer and workable they are. 
2. Grace Body Lotion
• This is the best lotion in the world!! I love it, in fact I just ordered my second bottle. The smell is truly heavenly and leaves your skin feeling baby soft!
3. Chanel: Coco CMademoiselle
• If I could bathe in this smell I would. I absolutely love it and can't go a day without wearing it. Sometimes I switch during the different seasons but for the most part this is my signature smell.
4. Beautenizer Fiberwig Mascara  
• This is one of the best mascaras I have ever used. It really does put a "wig" on your eyelashes. Since I am not blessed with having an abundance of eyelashes this product really makes my eyes pop! 
5. Long Lasting Liquid Eyeliner  
• I have been using liquid eye liner for a long time and this has been my favorite for a few years now. It has the perfect tip for both thin and thicker lines and it also stays on for a long time. The best part is that it is completely smudge proof!
6. Sugar Lip Treatment  
• In Rose. I use this on a daily basis whether I am at work or going out on the weekends. It makes your lips incredibly soft with just a hint of color!
7. Hoola Bronzer by Benefit 
• I love this bronzer because there isn't any sparkles in it. Makeup to me is looking your most natural with just a tad bit of help from your products. The last thing I want to look like is a disco ball in the sunlight from my bronzer.

Teddi's Ingredients to BEAUTIMOUS

Ladies and gents, meet our little southern Tennessee belle, Teddi.  Ted  moved to Louisville 2-3 years ago and pretty much became an immediate addition to our group of gals.  She fit in just perfectly! Yes, Teddi is her real name. No it is not short for anything and yes we are all aware of how cool that is.  She's the go to crafting gal and you might as well just call her Betty Crocker ... Girl can bake y'all. And I don't mean add a few chocolate chips to something and call it baking.  I mean homemade, from scratch goodness that tastes better than yo' mammas.  I'm still holding out for her mamma's secret recipe on Teddi cakes (they are these amazing little butter mini cakes coated in a sugary cinnamon topping - TO.DIE.FOR.), but we'll leave some of my copy cat attempt recipes for another post on a Recipe Monday review. Anyways, as long as she's not in that blinding orange color, I got much love for the gal!

Now begins my broken record intro for the week:  y'all should know the routine by now but if not, I had each gal send me a list with their descriptions and links to their favorite products. I put together their "favorite things" collage (to make all of the posts look the same) but from here on out - Tennessee Teddi is Talkin':

1. Eye Makeup Remover by Almay: Eye Make-up Remover Pads.
• These are not oily but they don't burn. Conveniently packaged and even come in a tiny travel size (15 pads!) that is perfect to toss in your bag on the run.
2. Soft Lips Lip Balm in Vanilla 
• Lip Chap for your crusty crusts. Also perfect to accent your Cupid's bow (on your top lip). Perfect to keep handy to keep your lips looking fresh and natural!
3. Highlighter by theBalm Cosmetics: Mary-Lou Manizer
• Great for contouring cheeks and giving just the right glow! 
4. Moisturizer by Willa Naturals: Face Friendly Clear Face Moisturizer.
• Keeps face moisturized but is lightweight and doesn't feel heavy or sticky on your face.
5. Primer/Balm by Benefit: POREfessional.
• Lightweight "balm" to put on right after moisturizing. It minimizes the appearance of pores and makes the rest of your makeup routine look flawless! Perfect with just Hoola swiped on top for an effortless perfect skin look.
6. Face wipes by Yes To: Grapefruit Brightening Facial Towelettes.
• Full of vitamin C, fresh scent, doesn't dry your skin out, and it lightly exfoliates! What more could a gal want before bedtime? :)

Laura's Ingredients to BEAUTIMOUS

Today's guest bringing you their favorite things is my great pal, Laura.  Some know her as Bop ... or Baby Bop ... because let's face it, in high school we realized she looks like a baby dinosaur (but an oh so cute one!).  Laura and I met in high school because our last names were next to one another in the alphabet, so we were always seated by each other. Our lives have continued to mesh well into adulthood because we seem to be on a similar track. Although, she could speed up the pregnancy part and I wouldn't hold it against her :0)  I love the gal, she's real real great.

Alright so you should know the routine by now but if not, I had each gal send me a list with their descriptions and links to their favorite products. I put together their "favorite things" collage (to make all of the posts look the same) but from here on out - Lil Laura has the floor... :

First things first, I'm a review-reading junkie. I read and I read and I read until I decide to probably not purchase. I could give you the statistical average on reviews of millions of products that I've never owned, nor seen in real life. Stupid, I know. It's a guilty pleasure. Few products make the cut for me and you can bet that all of mine are tried and true. The real deal. While they may not be groundbreaking, they work for me and have become lifetime faves. Take a peek!

1. Benefit Coralista blush 
• I love the color. I love the brush. I love the smell. I love Benefit. Win-win-win-win. And actually while I'm at it, I love this whole set (1b)  
2. Aussie 3 Minute Miracle 
• I have brutally tangly hair. It used to take my hairdresser 30 minutes to comb it out. I've been known to use Johnson's No More Tangles up until about age 22. It's bad. But this stuff helps immensely. I use it once a week to keep my hair soft and tangle free. It's cheap and smells like a dream.
3. Oscar Blandi Texture & Volume Spray 
• I was certainly skeptical of this product, but it does wonders for my hair. The perfect pick me up. It adds a little texture and va-va-voom to dull hair. Bonus: It also adds a little life to hair on those days that you forget to wash. Major plus for this girl.
4. Sebastian Shaper Plus Hair Spray 
• This has been a staple in my life for about 10 years. It's the most perfect hairspray out there - great hold, not sticky or heavy. I blame all of my bad hair days in the past year on the fact that they discontinued it. I've been through countless hairsprays since and nothing compares. But I'm happy to report it's back!  I'll be purchasing 10 bottles to avoid any mishaps in the future.
• Hi! Katie here -- I wanted to pop in and mention ... this girl knows hairspray and I've got the photo to prove it, so I'd recommend taking her up on this advice ... too good not to share. Now, carry on Laura...

1. theBalm Stainiac Lip Stain in Beauty Queen 
• This one's a stain, so not moisturizing, but you'll never know it's on your lips. No icky lipstick or lip gloss texture and it lasts all day.
2. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer 
• Finally! The foundation product I've always wanted. It's super light, but with great coverage. So easy to apply. And SPF included! This is something I probably read 600 reviews on and am so happy that I purchased. I'll use it for the rest of my life.
3. Sugar Lips in Rose 
• Probably my very top product. It's super soft & moisturizing like your favorite chapstick, with a pop of the most perfect color. The color of your lips, but a little better.  

Baili's Ingredients to BEAUTIMOUS

The first gal pal sharing with you her favorite beauty products is my dear friend Baili.  I think I have described Baili before as the mom of our group.  She's the one who keeps us all in line and keeps everything together. She is the key to the kingdom when it comes to organizing events, gals nights, and any other detail that needs a close eye.  She is a lover of the lake and we share one too many happy place memories there. Baili is the gal who will be a bridesmaid in every wedding from now until the year 2090 because she's that good of a friend. She also has one of my favorite alter-party ego's {Madtard} - but we'll spare those stories for a later post :P ... hehee!

So, like I mentioned yesterday, I had each gal send me a list with their descriptions and links to their favorite products. I put together their "favorite things" collage (to make all of the posts look the same) but from here on out - Miss Baili has the floor.  So here she is ladies and gents:

1. Mia Clarisonic
• Seriously my one and only true love when it comes to my skin care and beauty regimen.  Not joking when I say it has changed my skin. I honestly don’t feel like my face gets truly clean unless I use it. I just pump some Cetaphil on the brush head and get down to work! I have the Mia version, which seems to be the most affordable one. Not sure what the difference is between the others, since the brush heads are all interchangeable, you can really get whichever brush is best for your skin type. Be sure to order those off Amazon though, much much cheaper!
2. Mint Julep Masque
• I use this mask every Thursday so prep my skin for the weekend. It will clear up any blemish and leaving your skin feeling taut and smooth. Doesn’t hurt its called Mint Julep, a little nod to my Derby City!
3. Benefit Hoola Bronzer
• This is a great NATURAL looking bronzer that’s not too orangey and lasts a relatively long time. I’m also a sucker for Benefit’s cute packaging! Check out their other bronzer names.. .too fun!
4. Cetaphil
• I buy this thing by the industrial vat, seriously it’s that good! It’s gentle but gets the job done. There are a few different versions as far as skin type. You can pick it up at your local drugstore.
5. Cover Girl Tinted Moisturizer
• The only tinted moisturizer I keep going back to. I’ve tried the BB creams and other tinted moisturizers but those tend to be a little too thick and make-upy for me. Since I don’t use a foundation I really like to just have a little coverage and a moisturizer all in one.
6. Urban Decay Build Your Own Palette/ NakedPalette
• I went crazy for the Naked palette when it came out. It was nice to be able to try out colors I wouldn’t normally buy. Once those began to run out I discovered that Urban Decay has a ‘create your own’ palette option where you can pick 4 of your favorite colors in the regular size and pop them in yourself! I think it actually comes with one already in there. Such a deal at $18. The full size shadows are $18 themselves.  Also, Sephora is 8% cash back on Ebates right now!
• On another note, if you don’t have Ebates you’re missing the boat! You basically get money for shopping online—seriously that easy. Each online store that participates has a different %  of money back  on orders. Ebates will send you your earnings quarterly.

RM: My Ingredients to BEAUTIMOUS

Today is Recipe Monday.  The day where I normally share the latest and greatest recipe I'm wanting to try, or the latest and greatest recipe I did try and can no longer live without.  However, today and this entire week actually, I've enlisted some help from some of my besties to share with you a different kind of recipe.  A recipe made up of our absolute favorite beauty ingredients that make us look and feel like rock stars.  In the words of our favorite Honey Boo Boo Mama, June, the stuff that makes us down right BEAUTIMOUS!

I'll share my list of beauty must haves with you today - and then I'll highlight some of my gal pals for the rest of the week to divvy up their can't live without lists.  

It has been so fun to look at everyone's must haves and see what makes them tick.  It's not so great for my bank account however, because it makes me think I in turn need the items as well. If they're good enough for my pals, than I absolutely MUST HAVE THEM TOO ... Duh!  It's a blast though to see how passionate people are about "THEIR" products, and hear their excitement when they talk about them.  Because they are SO life changing, and make everything SO much better! ... Hehehe

I wish I could say I was different and haven't been sucked into the endless black hole that is the never ending abyss of retail beauty products, but I am no better my friends.  NO BETTER.  I actually may be worse.  For instance, when I was soliciting their help for this little project I started analyze my morning routine and realized how much I rely on every day items.  For instance, if someone were to ask me to choose between my teasing comb or my bronzer and said I had to quit the other 100% cold turkey, I really don't know if I'd be able to do it. Like really, it would inevitably cause a full fledged meltdown with tear stained cheeks and a ugly cry face.  I wish I were simply being dramatic for the sake of story telling, but I truthfully think it would be THAT devastating.  SEVERELY life altering.

So here goes, my list of favorite things that I use to make me feel BEAUTIMOUS!

1. Clean & Clear Daily Pore Cleanser
• This is MY face wash, and has been since I was about 14.  The bottle has changed appearance from time to time - but what's inside is grand. I've tried other face cleansers, but nothing seems to work on my skin like the teeny bopper brand.  So I will remain an ever loyal customer!
2. Sephora Cleansing pad
• I use #2 along with #1 and make my own Clarisonic.  Ugh, I've been wanting one for some time now and I know I need to break down and get one.  But I just haven't seemed to find the time, money or rationale.  But I hear once you get one you can never go back - so maybe I just need to turn in the flimsy cleansing pad and upgrade to the big girl status of the Mia. Or mayyyybe the Easter Bunny will bring it in my basket! -  Cough, cough: PENNY, ARE YOU READING THIS?!)
3. Amor, Amor by Cacharel
• My musk.  Again, a tried and true Katie-ism.  I was at the ripe old age of 17 when I found this stuff. My long time bestie, Jessica and I flew out to Denver, CO to visit her older sister Megan at the University of Denver.  Megan drove the coolest black 4-runner, played volleyball in Colorado, and took us to Bruegger's Bagels to eat lunch one day (side note: I still love all of these things, and I think it is all partially due to this trip, because I was so entranced by the whole scenario).  Anyways, when we climbed into Megan's ever so awesome Black 4-runner, it smelled so heavenly I swear I could have died a happy teenager right then and there.  And when we went out that night, I spotted the scent.  She spritz a little on before getting out of the car (because she kept a bottle and the lotion in her car - HOW SMART?!). I caught a glimpse of the label and I swore I'd make the purchase as soon as I got home.  Annnnnd here we are today. I still track the stuff down (on the Internet because they don't see it in many stores) and wear it like no other. Now, I'd be lying if I said I didn't throw in other scents every now and again, and Hubs buys me new perfumes.  But this is the one that tugs my heart strings. - Also, Megan if you're reading this - I apologize for how creepy I sound! 
4. Mebco Teasing Comb
• As I write this, I shrill at the thought of my life without it.  Now, I am by no means a "the higher the hair, the closer to Jesus" kind of girl, in that BIG hair is a must.  BUUUT, if my hair has not been teased at least a little bit, I feel downright heinous.  It's part of my routine.  I picked it up on college, well before the Snooki poof.  But, I rocked a decent half-up|half-down poof, and always added volume to my pony.  It's a must have item. MUST. HAVE. MUST.
5. Brazil Nut Body Butter
• I don't know about ya'll but I think it's kind of a challenge to find a good lotion.  I feel like many lotions have flaws: too greasy, not heavy enough, too heavy, overly scented, smells like an old lady, etc.  This little beaut seems to be just the right amount of scent, creaminess (hate that word), and non greasy.  Plus, it's an easy snag at your local Target!
6. Oscar Blandi - Pronto Dry Shampoo (powder)
• So, I'm one of those gals who always has wispy hairs in my face and some for (any length) of bangs hanging (even when I rock a pony).  So those fringe pieces around my face tend to get a little oily.  Plus, having dark hair - they seem to grease up a little quicker.  WELL - dry shampoo is my best friend when it comes to needing to throw myself together in a pinch.  I sprinkle a little on my finger tips - rustle it around my fringe and off I go.  Voila.  Squeaky clean (or at least my hair looks like it)!
7. Bare Minerals - Warmth - Bronzer
• Another absolute must have.  Dash a little of this on my cheek bones and I can take on the world.  Just a pop of color without appearing to orangy or oompah-loompah.  Bronzer isn't a gimmick. It's a lifeline.
8. Osis + Dust It Matifying Powder
• As mentioned above, in conjunction with my teasing comb.  This magical red bottle brings my roots to life.  The texture is a little funky, so use sparingly until you get the hang of it.  But my hair dresser used this on me for a wedding I was in almost 2 years ago and I've been hooked ever since.  It adds texture, volume and just enough life to SHAZAM those roots!  Buy it on Amazon - it's MUCH cheaper than what it retails for in a salon.
9. Victoria's Secret - Lip Gloss
• I won't name names, but I have a friend who tells me I'm not allowed to wear bright colors on my lips (specifically hot pink and red) b/c I've got big lips and big teeth.  Ergo, not a perfect combo.  Bottom line, there are some ladies who can rock it and some who can't.  I fall amongst the "can't" category but I'm okay with it.  This lip gloss has great flavor and doesn't stick with you.  It adds just enough neutral sheen and is great for everyday wear.
10. Smashbox Photo Finish Primer
• I rub this little cream all over my face before I touch it with a make-up brush.  It helps to smooth everything out, keeps the oil to a minimum and helps to fill in some of those pesky pores.  Plus it keeps your make-up in tact for JUST a little longer.

So there you have it.  All of the items I use to make myself feel BEAUTIMOUS!  Stay tuned all week for updates from some of my best gal pals to see their MUST HAVE items!