Girl Chat: Favorite Makeup/Beauty Products

I'm linking up today---yay!!

I've wanted to share my current favorite beauty products for awhile now.  I just pulled a few of my recent go-to must haves that I have been loving!

For my hair, I only use this line of products.  I find that spending a little more money, washing my hair every 2-4 days, and not curling/straightening every day has really helped!  This spray is fabulous for spraying directly on my hair before I use my curling wand.  The curls hold and last longer for sure!

Sealing Spray

Curling Wand

This is what my hair looks like right after I finish curling. I love to run my fingers through or even a brush to give it the looser look too. I let it cool down first though!

For my eyes I've been loving Younique!  I find this palette to really compliment my brown eyes.  My sweet friend Elizabeth has an amazing group on Facebook where she shares tips, tricks & lots of amazing deals!

Glamour & Grace with Elizabeth

I typically wear Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue daily, but for a night out on the town or if I'm doing any photos or filming, this is what I prefer.  It lasts and really gives a gorgeous glow in a photo! I use the shade Pure Beige.

Foundation

If I wasn't a Stella & Dot Stylist, I would probably be a LipSense lady! I am obsessed with this product for a few reasons.  I have always been a lip gloss kind of girl, but love the look of lipstick.  The problem with lipstick is that it ends up on my teeth, my husband, and all over my straws and cups.  It's annoying! I tried Gingerbread back around the holidays and I was hooked.  It tingles a little when you apply, but man oh man, it's so fab!  I also love that I can layer colors and create custom looks.  It helps that one of my best friends (maid of honor!) sells it.  Check out her Facebook Group for some deals and lots of pretty lip looks!

Ann Gets Lippy

I tried this bad boy out last night--a little out of my comfort zone but I totally think I rocked it!

I also only have to tote around a gloss or two when I'm out and about.  Winning!

I'm really into self-tanners and I have tried quite a few! Hands down, this has the best smell, least streaks and gives a natural glow.  Even my husband commented how much he likes me tan!

Ann Gets Lippy

Here was my "Purple Reign" lips.

Here I'm wearing Roseberry.

Date night was Napa.

Beige Champagne is my favorite for a mom on the go look!

Being a momma of two kids, 2 & 4, I feel like I am finally starting to feel like a woman again. I'm taking the time to make myself pretty--yes, I get that beauty is on the inside, but let's be real.  I feel my best when I am working out, eating healthy, and getting my glam on!! I am blessed to have such amazing friends who are total girl bosses and I feel like I have such a support team.  

Taking time for ourselves is so important.  It's impressive what a little makeup, lip color & some jewels can do for me!

I confess...

...I was happy to see this link up is now happening again.  Thanks ladies!

....I am bound and determined to blog every damn week day!! I am really loving my groove and even though it's 8:39 as I start typing this, it's still Thursday!

....Days like to day make me truly thank my lucky stars I get to stay home with my babies.  We left a little after 9 to get out to "Creative Play" at my sister's gymnastics center and I don't miss that rush!

...With that said, I am so happy the babes got to run around like little monkeys! They had a ball bouncing on trampolines, walking on the balance beams and falling into the foam pit.

...I'm turning into a tea addict. I just love trying new teas and drinking them all day long! I think this Summer I will have to try making some cold brewed caffeine free teas to drink!

...Hubby and I getting away to Toronto! I'm so excited to spend some one on one time with my main squeeze---it is SO good for our souls, our marriage and for the kids.

...I cannot believe Brooke is going to be dancing in her first recital in one month! Where is my baby?!

...These Mother's Day commercials have me all emotional and crying! I can't take any more baby moments!! #letthemstaylittle

...Our friends had their baby girl and I'm dying to get her into my arms!

....that I was WAY TOO OVERLY EXCITED over finding out that Overdrive is an app you can download and hook up with your local library (as long as you have a library card!) and listen to audio books and read e-books for FREE!

...tomorrow is Fri-yay which means Satur-yay is almost here!!

....I am kinda sad I did not have anything Mexican or alcoholic today in honor Cinco De Mayo, but I'll make up for that this weekend, I am sure.

...I'm off to read!

Thursday Confessions

I confess....

...Super stoked it's Thursday and the sun is shining!

...I'm totally a type A personality when it comes to organizing get togethers.  I hate, I mean hate not being in control.  

...I have a true obsession with my green tea lattes I started drinking in place of my coffee & I do believe I may be feeling a lot better with this whole reflux thing (still no meds!)

...I could sit and watch the kids play forever.  They're at that adorable stage where if they don't know I'm watching, they're really cute together---until they're not and start biting/crying/arguing haha!

....I'm having a ball with my Keep biz! We are doing an online Ladies Night and I love meeting new people to network with!  {Plus the Summer line is soooo fun!}

...Saturday night we get to go out to dinner with some of Joe's work people and I'm looking forward to some adult conversations! The other wives are a lot of fun and it should be a great time. 

...I had too much fun taking the kids on a walk to a park and playing on Monday, only for it to go back into the 50's and be a little too chilly/windy for my liking.

...we are super close to finalizing Summer vacation plans. I want them made already so I can start the planning!

...my closet needs new jeans, shorts and a few more easy tops for Summer, pronto!!

...I feel as though I could have written this blog post here

...just when I think I am on top of everything, I go and forget Bradley's 15 month checkup appointment on Tuesday.  #oops

...I totally got my husband addicted to Snap Chat; I love that we're like 12.

...I'm really wanting to try some new warm weather recipes! Any good ideas??

...mind over mattress is something I struggle with, but I am really trying to get up earlier!! {totally failed today, but yesterday I was up early enough to read a bit!}

...baby boy desperately needs his bangs trimmed but neither Joe or I want to cut the curls! 

....Bubs totally reminds me of Maggie on The Simpsons because he'll walk around the house sucking on his empty ba ba and then just randomly fall, for no reason.  

What are your confessions?!

I Confess...

....This Confession Session was super fun, so I decided to do it again!

...Brooke's learning a value of a dollar in her own 3 year old mind.  She's saving money for "Robo Dog, which both Joe and I have thought about going and buying, but we know we are teaching her valuable skills such as patience, hard work pays off, money, counting, and rewards.

...I am more than stoked I just put in my sampling order for KEEP--You guys, this Summer line is the bomb! I had to pay shipping & handling and got $275 FOR FREE!!! (you could too!)

...I have a night with my girl Alison planned tonight--SO excited!

...I have to clean the entire house before I can go #cinderella

...Keeping a one year old and a 3 year old entertained while cleaning is really tricky!

...I haven't been feeling my workouts lately. I blame the weather ha!

...The sun is out and therefore I feel better already today!

...I felt the sickies coming on yesterday so I chugged a Kombucha, took an epsom salt detox bath (seriously felt myself sweating!) and cleared my chakras. I feel good today!

...I'm still really trying to work on my diet/reflux/gerd issues and it is SUCH a pain. I miss being able to eat whatever I want whenever I want.  

...It's going to hit the 60's/70's this weekend and I am pumped!

....Brooke has her dance pictures this Sunday and Joe is not happy that she has to wear makeup 

...I go through phases where I kind of obsess over things and right now it's cleaning. I'm going to do Jen's Challenge and start Monday. Who wants to join?!  

I love her idea of  Zone cleaning and I'm hoping this helps me stay on top of it!

....I could totally sit here and write all day, but I must get to cleaning!

Happy Thursday loves!

5 on Friday

Happy Fri-Yay!!! I figured I would link up with Five on Friday--

---ONE--

Can I get an "Amen" to this?!  I am truly adoring the changing of leaves, cooler temps, and lots of warm bevvies!  We are so lucky to get to experience all four seasons here.  Winter may be my least favorite, but I will take it, just so we get these gorgeous autumns.



---TWO---
In my Fall Fab Fit Fun box, we received these amazing 20 minute facial masks.  They're gold. They're so awesome and I actually may try to purchase/ask for more for Christmas!  It smelled so good, felt cool and refreshing, and let me tell you…after the day we had on Monday, I NEEDED this.  {similar here}

I waited until the kids went to bed, so I didn't scare the daylights out of them…BOO!

In all seriousness though, I laid on my bed, sipping some "calming tea" and felt rejuvenated.

---THREE---

I've been looking for some over the knee flat black boots.  I love my UGGS, but I think they're too hot for right now. I want something more than a flat, but less than winter -so I am curious if anyone has tried shoes from EXPRESS?  I kind of like these, but my size is only available in stores right now.

---FOUR---
During nap time, if I don't workout, I am really trying to do something for me. Not the house. Not the kids, not the dog….me. So I'm really trying to get into this book, because I hear it will suck me in…but I'm still not there yet.  I'll keep at it though!

---FIVE--- 

I'm getting my hair done today!! I think I'm going to have him add more layers so it curls better when I part it straight… I also want it blonder. I'm crazy. I am loving the length but I think a little more around my face would help when I go to style it.  

5 on Friday

Happy Friday!! I am loving this weather and loving even more than my husband has Monday off!  He has to work Saturday, but that's ok.  We have a kid free night and will be going out to dinner with a bunch of fun people!  I'm looking forward to some family time this long weekend and lots of sun. As for the blog, I am really trying to make an effort here because I just love writing and posting my thoughts.  I really enjoy going back and reading them too!  It's been awhile, so I thought I'd share some favorites on this gorgeous Friday.

{1}

If there is one book I'd recommend it's this one.  I waited for it FOREVER at the library and it came in when we were on vacation.  BOO.  So I just bit the bullet and bought it, and boy am I glad I did! It's very intense, like I can't just part with ALL of my stuff, though I should try a little harder…but she has some very valid points and I can say that I LOVE looking at my fridge now that it is not completely covered in clutter!  I am definitely going to implement more from this, but I truly believe in what she says about energy and our belongings.  If you don't 100% love something, get.rid.of.it.  I know it's hard when there are multiple people living in the house, but it feels so good to have less stuff.

order here--[book]

{2} 

Nope. Not ready to let go of Summer and my easy go to outfit of comfy cut off shorts, a white tee and a kimono.  I am gonna rock this as long as I can…aka until the snow starts to fly?!
Kimono- Gift from TJ Maxx {Similar/fall styles here}
Tee- Express
Shorts- Express

{3}

I am a sun goddess. I love the sunshine. The warmth. The golden color that shines on my skin.  I don't love the C word and am terrified of getting too much sun, and I hate to admit it, but some of my "freckles" now appear to be dark spots. Frown.  So, instead of sitting in the sun, I decided I am going to try more sunless tanners. I don't love the smell of most of them and I am kind of a baby and don't want to pay all that money and look orange at a salon.  Megan reached out to me and had me convinced to try some of this.  HOLY COW!  Total game changer.  It has a slight scent, but nothing too potent. I exfoliated, shaved, applied 2 pumps per area/calves, thighs, arms, chest/tummy…and am SOLD. I only wish I had tried it sooner!! My husband even commented how tan I looked and he loved it! I believe a nice tan does help show off your body and just gives you that 'healthy glow.'



I need to work on applying it to my feet--haha oops! (I'm still getting used to it.)  But look at that color on my legs!! #sold

[order here]

{4}

My kids.  I am not going to lie, this is the first Fall I kind of missed going back to school--teaching. I dunno why. I haven't taught since 2011.  I think part of it is social media, seeing everyone get all dressed up in new clothes and get ready to go back…but then I stopped and really reflected what would cause that?  What is the root?  I started focusing on all the wonderful aspects that I can be a part of, not having to rush out of the door at 6:30.  [such as make a leisure breakfast, sip out of a ceramic mug, and not have to rush any where if I don't want to…and most importantly, be with my babes.] I know they won't be this little forever and so I'm embracing my normal and snapped this shot before we went to the library/park.

{5}

And although I'm not ready for the Fall, ok I am ready for Fall, not Winter! But I am excited for what lies ahead! I have purchased my 24 day challenge and am going to compete in a transformation contest! I need the accountability and encouragement.  It's not about the number on the scale, but I am definitely not as healthy as I want to be, and I definitely need to check myself!  Summer BBQs, wine time, and well just easy breezy on the go living has made for some not so great habits.  

-Free Coaching

-Meal plans

-Shopping lists

-online support

Besides, it's $1000 contest---you could win Cash and Advo goodies.  Woo! If you'd like to join in on the fun with me, I'd love to challenge with you!

That's all for now lovelies!! 

Have a beautiful weekend.

A Little [big] Life Tip

Oh hello, Monday. I was hoping for a smooth week to catch up and rest a bit…buuuuuut Brookie has her first cold of the season so things are not quite back to "normal" around these parts.  It's ok, and we're all hanging in there after the seizure dog drama, but man…I look forward to a healthy happy family some day soon please!!

I was looking at the prompts I've missed and this one jumped out to me...


One piece of advice I could give to a large group of people…


I have a lot to say, clearly, I nearly document my thoughts on a daily basis.  While I don't claim to know it all, I certainly have learned a thing or two over the past 33 years.  I think the best advice is to never stop learning/working on yourself.

I'll say it again, never stop learning or working on yourself. And with that, don't ever try to be "perfect" just always focus on progress.

Sounds easy enough, but I mean in every and all aspects of life.  Don't ever think for a second you can't change; everything about you can be re-created, re-directed, lifted, shifted, massaged, and the amount of growth one can have spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically is just mind-blowing.

What do I exactly mean about never stop learning? Well, there's the obvious. Take up a new class you've never tried before.  I suggest maybe finding one of your less than stellar aspects and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Maybe it's a workout class you're nervous to try. Perhaps you're "not a good cook," which I feel is an excuse for, you just haven't done it very much so you're not too great at it.  I wasn't nearly as good of a cook as I am today.  Through many okay dishes, delicious dinners and even some "the dog won't even eat it meals," I have worked up quite the recipe repertoire.

If you're unhappy about something in life, go back to you.  Look inside yourself. The easiest thing to do is go to the library, grab some Audio-books (CD) or if you don't mind spending the $$ grab some mp3s on iTunes or Audible.  I suggest getting your own copies because just one listen won't do it. Just like you can't go on one run and expect to stay in shape.  You can't eat one healthy meal and all of a sudden, "be healthy." It's a work in progress.   Just work on you.

Notice I didn't say grab an actual book.  You totally can, but I know that requires a little more commitment.  That requires an extra action step for you to sit down and carve out 10-15 minutes of your day, and I get that it's hard.  So for a no excuse method, grab an audio. Or Youtube--FREE! While you're folding laundry or putting on your makeup, putting away the dishes or even cooking dinner.  Start listening to some good leadership or self-help books, whatever you want to call them.

You will be amazed after a few listens, you will start to think, feel and act differently.

Some favorites:

The Slight Edge: by Jeff Olson

100 Ways to Motivate Yourself

Happy For No Reason

Change Your Thoughts Change your Life

Easier Than You Think


I would tell people to not care what others thought about them, but I know for a fact that only comes when you work on yourself.  We are brought up to appease others and not ruffle feathers.  Once you've broken the chain on that, you have freed yourself, life becomes limitless.  I'm not saying be rude or go out of your way to upset people, but once you find yourself and learn to live life on your terms, it all starts getting better.   Note that I didn't say easier.  Life is never easy.  It's just how you go about and deal with your day to day, that makes all the difference in the world.

Bottom line, just know that you are never too old to grow and learn.  We are always able to change, it's just taking those small action steps to lead us there.

And for heaven's sake, everyone else is so wrapped up in his or her own life, don't worry about what other people think!  Chances are, they're too worried about what others think of them too. Just put an end to that and focus on YOU.

Here's to a happy Monday!

This Week in Workouts

Sunday: Rest
Monday: TIU Love Your Total Body
Tuesday: Love Your Legs & Booty
Wednesday: I was SO sore in the hams/bootay! I did light yoga stretches.
Thursday: CU24 Cardio: Melt Move [200 cals boo ya!]
Friday: Rest
Saturday: TIU Love Your Body KettleBell workout {seriously my fave!} and I know I burned a few cals at the Ugly Disco.  Hubby and I boogie oogied for hours!! My feet are killing me.


I am obviously loving the TIU series.  It is quick, effective and I am seeing results!! Anyone can make time for 15 minutes.  It's just a matter of DOING so.  I am so happy to feel this great! Combine these awesome workouts with the right eating and correct supplements, I am feeling AMAZING!


Seriously.  I keep going back and forth on a gym membership but I looked in the mirror last night and thought dang, I'm doing just fine here at home! Just think of when the weather breaks and I'll be even more active outside!

Again, I am so happy that we started this linkup.  I've come a long way and feel so much stronger than I did in the beginning.  Thank you to all of you who continue to linkup and inspire me each week! Let's get it this week ladies!!

Haha a sneak peek at our Disco pics!!

Disco Fever

Workouts

Sunday- walk/jog with the dogs 25 minutes
Monday- TIU Yoga
Tuesday- TIU KettleBell 
Wednesday- 25 minutes on the elliptical
Thursday- Booty Shaking Waist Workout & TIU Sexy Upper Back
Friday- Jillian Micahels Buns & Thighs
Saturday- Rest

I feel way more confident with working out lately; it's crazy the more you push yourself to get back into it, the more you want to do!! I truly believe this linkup is helping me stay accountable! I feel like I am actually getting back into a rhythm and I know I need to target all areas of my body and not just do cardio.

There are so many interesting videos on You Tube, there is seriously no excuse! Even if I just shake it for 10 minutes, I feel SO much better than doing nothing.

Sorry we don't have the linkup code--Nikki was traveling and hasn't had a minute to do so yet!  I am sure we will have it soon. For now, leave a comment with your workouts or blog site!!

Week in Workouts

Happy Sunday friends!!  It's time for our weekly linkup with Nikki and Ashley!!

Each week I reflect and I cannot believe 7 whole days have passed. Crazy how time flies with a little one!  {or in general!}

I stuck with a lot of Yoga moves this week. I just felt that it was what my body wanted.  I feel great on day 7 of my cleanse and look forward to starting the max phase next week!!

Sunday-CU24 Supplemental Upper Body workout
Monday- Rest
Tuesday- Gentle Yoga on You Tube for [tmi cramps]
Wednesday- Yoga Meltdown Jillian Michaels
Thursday- Rest
Friday- Rest
Saturday- Zen in your Den Yoga

So my goal for this 24 day challenge is to lean out and tone up.  I don't want to lose weight, but I really would like to see more muscle definition.  So here is a picture to keep me held accountable.

I love this.  You just can't ever quit!!

This is no joke! It's definitely not a serene and calm yoga practice.  I for sure felt it the next day! Love it.

I didn't take pictures the other days.  I was lucky to squeeze a workout in!  Poor Brooke has been sick with Bronchiolits; I thought she was getting better but then it took a turn on Friday and I took her to the Dr. Not much to do, other than lots of fluids, rest, and love.  Stupid virus will have to run its course.

I see in my forecast that it may reach the 40's next week--HOLLA!  This girl is super excited to jump on the elliptical in the garage.  We have a space heater and if it's not crazy cold, I really don't mind it.

How'd your workouts go this week? Any new fun at home routines I can try? I need to get back into Zumba or dancing. I love that most.

Week in Workouts

I LOVE a fresh start.  This month, I have lots of goals and am excited to continue working on my workouts.  Let's start by rounding out the extremely long never-ending month of January, with sharing my week in workouts!  Link up with Nikki, Ashley and me every Sunday! Let's empower each other to get our hearts pumping for good health! 

1.27 Monday- CU24 

1.28 Tuesday-Rest

1.29 Wednesday- Rest

1.30 Thursday- Jillian Michael's Shred it w/ weights

1.31 Friday- Rest

2.1  Saturday- CU24 Powerflow Yoga

I hit my "3x a week" goal, but I want to workout more.  

Monday I dressed myself in workout gear in hopes that I would just get her done.

I have a love/hate relationship with these two. I was attempting to do some bicep curls with the resistance band, while sitting on the ball.  It may have smacked me right in the face!! oy.

Not a bad 24 minute workout burn.

Stay fueled during the day!

Thursday's workout almost didn't happen.  I can't just pop my DVD into my player because my husband has his PS3 headphones attached and so the sound comes through there.  I grabbed my lap top to use, but it died. So I had to plug it in and do my workout this way.  A total pain and I'm working on fixing this because it's making me want to just go get a gym membership! Oy.

Saturday I was sore from the week and really needed a good stretching.

What'd your week in workouts look like?? Link up below!