When a blogger is down with chronic migraine

ELF Haul 2016

My husband is awesome, he indulges my blogging/beauty hauls and time spent with the blog. This ELF haul, he actually couldn't believe that I spent $49 for all these products LOL. I told him that this brand is inexpensive and has some great items. He told me that this is an early birthday present (it's in a week, so perfect timing). ELF has always been a favorite brand of mine and although there are some hit and misses, I have found a lot of hits lately. Stay tuned for the rundown!

The 2 brushes that I got are the beautifully bare Stipple Brush and the Blending Brush. I really like the blending brush as it's full bodied and super soft. Now the one thing I am not really happy about is that both these brushes have seriously short handles. But I will work with them for sure!

The Blush and Bronzing palettes are just frickin awesome. Pigmented, compact, easy for travel and gorgeous.

The eyeshadow palettes: Mad for Matte, super neutral and although there are some that are super powdery and light on pigmentation, I feel like I can get some use out of these. The Tantalizing Taupe (clear front) is right up my alley and will definitely be used for everyday eyes. And ladies I am not mad that they give me instructions embossed on the shadows to tell me where to put them, I learn over and over :)! Last but certainly not least the new clay eyeshadows in Saturday Sunsets is beautiful. Pigmented, a little powdery and small which is great for traveling.

The Mineral Infused Mascara will be a first for me as for the Liquid Eyeliner in Charcoal. I have used neither of these products and am looking forward to seeing what all these are about! The Eye Primer and Liner Sealer is another newbie to me. Definitely will have to research how to use the liner sealer!

The Facial Massager intrigued me and anything to aid in my march against an aging face will be welcome!

The lippie addict in me was jumping for joy with the new lippies to my collection as follows:

Left to right:

Aqua Beauty Radiant Gel Lip Stain in Dewy Berry

Beautifully Bare Lipstick in Touch of Blush

Beautifully Bare Lipstick in Touch of Berry

Gotta Glow Lip Tint in Perfect Berry

Last but not least the All Over Color Stick in Persimmon can be used as highlighter, blush topper or eyeshadow IMO. It's a tad icy pink but hey, this lady will try most anything!!!!

Overall. I am a happy and excited lady to play with these products and this will NOT be my last ELF haul. What are some of your product picks from ELF? What should I try? Do tell!!!!

Blessings, Sherry



Glycolic pads and lotion

Left to right:
Lumavera Glycolic Night Cream
Peter Thomas Roth Un-Wrinkle Peel Pads
Skin + Pharmacy Glycolic Peel Pads
Nip & Fab Glycolic Fix  exfoliating facial pads
Nip & Fab Glycolic Fix Night Pads

Glycolic acid, AHA's and lactic acids are known for their ability to exfoliate and move the dead skin off your skin to show smoother and "new" skin. These are in lots of different products and can be subtle to outright heavy duty. I for one, love heavy duty! Read on for my picks and uses.

I have uneven texture, hyperpigmentation, and dry skin. The sun worshipping of my youth has caught up with me big time! After researching the acid family and finding that they were key to my skin, I incorporated them into my skincare regime asap. Several brands caught my eye and I went about purchasing them and testing them out. I didn't want any sissy products and these are the ones that I wanted.

Some of these are downright expensive and others are wallet friendly. Keep reading for my thoughts on each brand/product!

I am almost finished with my Peter Thomas Roth Un-wrinkle Peel pads and find that the 20% complex (the ingredient list only states retinol with no percentage) was a pretty hefty dose. This is the most expensive and can be found at Sephora and Ulta. I have used PTR products and trust this brand as the other cleansers are pretty jam packed with good ingredients. These pads are easy to use, say to use once a day am or pm your choice. I like using them at night while I sleep. They say to rinse off after 60 seconds. I don't do that and only spritz with a face spray to deactivate and leave it on overnight with no side effects. They do not sting when using unless I have a breakout. I have seen brighter skin, more even texture and the hyperpigmentation appears to be lessened.

I was blessed to have won some Lumavera products and the Glycolic Night Cream was included. This is the next expensive product. I use this on alternating nights. The cream is thin, has a chemical smell and definitely stings for a bit after applying. It does not state the strength on the ingredient list but has some incredible ingredients to go along with this cream. Including "stem cell" and some great herb additives.

Skin + Pharmacy can be found at CVS pharmacy. CVS has gotten game with their new skincare lines! This is another pad that doesn't give the percentage of acid but has some pretty incredible ingredients. Again it can be used at night and is gentler on my skin than the previous listed items. Again, (personal preference) I leave it on without rinsing off. It is in the $25 range but worth it in my opinion.

Nip & Fab products I have been using for several years and trust their items because I have seen that they work! The light blue label product has the added benefit of hyaluronic acid, blue daisy and witch hazel and is quite mild IMO. I use this when my skin is a bit cranky, it works well!

The other Glycolic Fix Night pads are a bit more heavy duty and when I run out of my PTR, these will be the ones I jump to next. It has salicylic acid and lactic acid in its ingredient list, both reat for breakouts and exfoliation. Both the Nip & Fab products can be found at Ulta and if you keep an eye out, they do buy one, get one half off often.

Because I have a mature face, glycolics and acids are a staple in my routine. Be sure to wear a good sunscreen as acids tend to make you more susceptible to sunburn!!!

Overall, acids work for my face and I don't think I will stop anytime soon as I see clearer, brighter, exfoliated skin. This is a great effect!

On a side note, Nuance by Salma Hyack has a tub of these at CVS and they are quite affordable!

Do you use acids in your daily routine? Have they worked for you? Do tell!

Blessings. Sherry

Glycolic and Hydroxy Acid Cleansers

Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel

Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser

Garnier Radiance Renewal Cleansing Gelee

I am a firm believer that the older I get that skincare is the absolute most necessary step in my routine, period. I use over the counter peel pads, retinol products and glycolic cleaners. These are 3 that are in my current routine. From expensive to drugstore!

From Wikipedia:

Glycolic acid is used to improve the skin's appearance and texture.

It may reduce wrinkles, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation and improve many other skin conditions, including actinic keratosis, hyperkeratosis, and seborrheic keratosis^{[citation needed]}. Once applied, glycolic acid reacts with the upper layer of the epidermis, weakening the binding properties of the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together. This allows the stratum corneum to be exfoliated, exposing live skin cells. Highly purified grades of glycolic acid are commercially available for personal care applications.

I first started using PTR when I purchased my Clarisonic Mia and it came with a small bottle and have since purchased the big bottle in a holiday kit. Love it! It lasts a long time because a little goes a long way and has very little fragrance and doesn't strip my face. It also has great skincare ingredients that add some great benefits. Available at Ulta and Sephora.

Mario Badescu Skin Care is well known and not as expensive as PTR. This little bottle has lasted me for over 6 months! Little fragrance, little goes a long way and doesn't strip my face. This products main ingredient is glycolic acid and because the packaging is basic the money for this product, I feel, goes into the product itself. Available at Ulta and Sephora.

Garnier has some great drugstore prices and although not entirely glycolic acid, has salicylic acid and other great skincare ingredients. This product has a great fragrance, and does strip my skin a bit. I am careful to moisturize really well. This product is great for acne prone and breakout skin. Can be found at your local pharmacies, Walmart and Ulta.

Because the older I get and the more hyperpigmentation and texture I notice, this is a must have for me. There are lots of glycolic toners in the market and night time treatments. I feel these last longer as with glycolic cleansers you wash a lot away!

Do you use any glycolic cleansers or toners? What is your favorite? Do tell!!!

Blessings, Sherry



Ulta Haul and Gift with Purchase

gloss, matte lipstick


I have tried very few Ulta brand products. I rectified that situation on my last trip. Primarily because they had the cute purple makeup bag with products inside when you spent $21.50 of their beauty brand products.

I purchased the Inner Rim Liner Trio (top middle) and the Brow Lift Duo in Blonde. One end has the highlight and the other a tinted brow gel. I then added the Micellar Water Makeup remover pads (they are not all that saturated, but I made them work). This got me to the gift with purchase!

The gorgeous (ok I love purple:) zipper bag holds a palette, mascara, clear brow gel, setting powder, gloss, matte lipstick, sharpener, cute purple fingernail polish and a couple of brushes. All in all a travel friendly product for easy peasy use. I added a couple of trial size BB creams to round out the full face! All in all a great gift with purchase.

There is something about gift with purchase that makes me want to buy products that, let's face it, I don't need LOL. But, hey I can always use them and if I don't I can pass them on. I am impressed though that the Ulta brand products are pretty good and stay up on trends and dupes.

I have a feeling that I will use these products and love them. Are you a GWP junkie? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

My Favorite Bloggers and YouTubers

I can honestly say that I am addicted to YouTube, Snapchat and Bloglovin. Mainly because I love learning about new products as well as learning things from these women about how to blog and snap! So I am going to list my top faves and why they rock my addiction!

beautyreflectionsblog.com  Tracy just plain rocks. Her blog is thorough, honest, funny and downright awesome. I can seriously not get enough and wait with bated breath for the next post lol! Visit her blog ya'll, she won't disappoint.

ellesees.blogspot.com Elle has awesome reviews, tutorials and beauty information. But the thing I love about her blog too is the DIY's that she has taught me. They are awesome!!!

willsingformakeup.blogspot.com Lauren has a beautiful and very professional blog. Her photos are top notch and I love reading this well though out blog. Seriously, check her out!

beautybroadcast.net emilynoel83  Emily is another straight up honest, informative and has a sweet personality! She has both a blog and YouTube channel. Go check her out!

grav3yardgirl.com is known far and wide. That doesn't stop me from obsessively checking her YouTube channel out because you just never know what she will throw out there. Her personality is incredible and she has a positivity about her that shines.

carolinehirons.com The skincare Queen!! I learn so much from her blog and YouTube. If I have a question she 99% of the time educates me on the whys, hows and how to's!

reddelicious is my favorite Australian YouTuber. Not only is she an intelligent, beautiful red head, she has a sweet personality. Seriously a great channel, you won't be disappointed.

zabrena is another beautiful redhead on YouTube and she is awesome. Informative, intelligent and funny. Her Frugal Fridays are a huge hit! Check her out.

lizwilliams has a sweet YouTube channel that chronicles lots of beauty, lifestyle, family and fun stuff. I love her reviews and her sweet personality.

vickieisenstein has the funniest channel. She mixes beauty, lifestyle, comedy and lots more. If you need a pick me up watch her Lunch Crunch series!!

uppiesbeads59 for those of us that are "mature aging" this lady and her channel makes it easy to work with what we have and still look good over 40!

ginamber is a European transplant and is funny! She does reviews, tutorials and general life. She seriously makes me laugh! Check her out!!!

lauraleeblogs.com Laura Lee is funny, informative and has great tutorials on her YouTube channel. Her husband is in many of her antics and is awesome.


These are a few of my favorites. Who do you love and why? Do share :)

Blessings, Sherry

Makeup Revolution Palette Haul- Outta my Comfort Zone!

Mermaids Forever Eyeshadow Palette
Blush Palette in Goddess
Unicorns Unite Eyeshadow Palette


Makeup Revolution palettes can be hit or miss. Some of the shadows in the top and bottom palettes are dry and the super glittery ones are a mess I tell ya!  Lots of fall out (I can work with that). They have great color payoff and overall are worth the money to me.

Even when I was younger, the most I went out of my comfort zone makeup wise was when I was in a metal band in the 80's and deep eyeliner and wicked lippies was the wildest I went. Then I got really tame and yes, boring. I am 50 next week and dang it, I am going outta my comfort zone and playing with my colors. YOLO and "it's only makeup and will wash off" and "who cares what others think", I'm gonna play! (Brave words from a tame woman LOL ).

Makeup Revolution has some awesome palettes that just speak to my inner rebel. Now Urban Decay and Wet N Wild have duochromes that I LIVE for, although yes I am cautious and light handed when using but it makes me feel a little daring. So my late new years resolution is play, play, play!!!

I have found Makeup Revolution in the last 6 months and have fallen head over heels. Not only for their colors, but their great prices and huge selection. Game on!!!

Already I have snuck a couple of the shadows into my routine and it feels deliciously decadent. I am not a young 'un and have to be careful of the super shimmery shadows with my old crepey lids but that hasn't stopped me from adding some fun pops of color. And ya'll I have gotten some compliments (one from the hubby who rolls his eyes with my makeup addiction/blog:) and it made me feel super happy.

So on to the living outta the comfort zone because ya'll it feels GOOD!!!

Blessings, Sherry

Benefit Some Kinda Gorgeous-Old School

Back in the late 90's, early 2000's I happened to find this product and it frickin changed my life! It is billed as a "foundation faker" and I purchased medium. I got it primarily for my 12 hour shift in the ER at night when I needed a touch up when I looked pretty rough a couple hours in. This did the trick.

First of all, the compact is sturdy, easy to throw in my work backpack and easy to use. It is velvety, smooth and does NOT cake up at ALL. I absolutely love the almost silicone texture and it pats beautifully on my hyperpigmentation and shiny t-zone. It melts into the skin without looking like you just layered on heavy foundation. Overall, this is a product I will repurchase until the end of time!

You can purchase this at the Benefit website, I honestly haven't seen this at Ulta and some Sephoras carry it in stock. It is $30 and lasts forever. I have hit pan on 2 of them after 6-8 months of regular use each. I carry it in my purse for on the go touch-ups and honestly think it is better than blotting papers!

Have you tried this Benefit goodie? What are your thoughts? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

Almay Foundations-my thoughts

Almay Smart Shade  makeup
Almay Age Essentials makeup
Both have SPF 15


Back in the day, I remember using the original Almay Smart shade foundation and loving it. Now they have several iterations including one for acne, regular and one for aging. Along with that a new base has come out that focuses on aging. So, me aging, me get one for aging LOL!

The Smart Shade comes out white, thin and very little fragrance. The Smart shade conforms to your own skin and gives you a beautiful finish that matches well (IMO). It has light to medium coverage, covers my redness and hyperpigmentation well for an easy face for regular running around. I like that it has SPF but still use sunscreen under my bases. Almay is a brand that is conscious about hypoallergenic, pure and great ingredients. I love this quick, easy and beautiful product.

The Age Essentials foundation is thicker, very little fragrance, medium to full coverage and chock full of ingredients that are good for your skin. I never have been one for full coverage bases and this blends out with a damp sponge well. This base allows me to have a great makeup for those times I need a bit more. As a side note, this base also has a bit of radiance to it that I wasn't expecting (no I wasn't having a hot flash at the time:).

Both of these are available at Target, Walmart, CVS and Walgreens. I'm sure it is at Ulta as well. I am impressed with these bases and pleased that they work so well for me. I have always loved Almay products and saw that they had Age Essentials concealer as well!! Go check it out for yourself, I think you will be pleased.

Have you tried either of these? PS: Tati Westbrook did a video on this product and color me impressed!

Blessings, Sherry

Blogging Education and Entertainment

Somerset Studios Artful Blogging magazines (found at Barnes and Nobles)


When I first started my blog I really didn't put a lot of effort in because it was more about a hobby. Then I started getting more into my blog and my husband commented that I shifted my passion to it more every day. This encouraged me to start reading blog posts about blogging and tips and tricks. Then I started buying blogging books and devouring them. I noticed these magazines at my bookstore and fell in love.

I love learning new things all the time. AND I love reading. Love learning from others. Trifecta!!!!

I also purchased 6 of the Blogosphere magazines and loved those as well. Here is the link if you are interested in purchasing, they are in the UK and have electronic copies of the magazines and you can pay with your PayPal. They feature prominent bloggers in beauty, fashion, food, travel and much more. They are awesome!!  blogospheremagazine.com

Tongue in cheek I say that although I have a "baby" blog, it's mine and I care about the people reading my posts. Therefore, I learn, implement the learning and have a lot of trial by fire!

Do you have any special places, bloggers, books or magazines that give you great information for blogging? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

Loreal Pro Glow Foundation

 

Before (top pic) with only skincare
After (bottom pic)

Everybody and their mother and dog are talking about this foundation ya'll! But I had to put my 2 cents worth in the ring.

I have combo skin, dry except for the T-zone. I have big time hyperpigmentation on my left cheek/chin. Redness on my cheeks and nose as well. I sweat super easily as it's close to 100 degrees every day and I am in full on hot flashing menopause. Now that is a test for a "glowy" foundation!!!

After researching the foundation I purchased it in the shade 204 and 205. I had heard that it oxidizes darker and just looking in the tube they appear a bit hard to tell the shade. In these pictures I am wearing shade 204.

The foundation is thin and watery but applies super easily. I tried sponge and fingers and both looked great. It covered my redness but not the hyperpigmentation. However, I only used one round of foundation on my face. The foundation claims to last 24 hours. Ummmm I will not be wearing this for 24 hours!

Here's what the website says:
Discover the new pro finish of longwear: up to 24 hour wear with a hydrating glow. Lightweight and creamy, this long lasting foundation goes on smooth with a glow finish that lasts. With medium coverage, it instantly hides imperfections for a clear complexion. The hydrating foundation with SPF is ideal for normal to dry skin.

COSMETIC INGREDIENTS WATER CYCLOPENTASILOXANE ALCOHOL DENAT. PHENYL TRIMETHICONE GLYCERIN PEG-10 DIMETHICONE BIS-PEG/PPG-14/14 DIMETHICONE DIMETHICONE MAGNESIUM SULFATE ETHYLHEXYL HYDROXYSTEARATE TALC SILICA PEG/PPG/POLYBUTYLENE GLYCOL-8/5/3 GLYCERIN DISODIUM STEAROYL GLUTAMATE DIMETHICONE/POLYGLYCERIN-3 CROSSPOLYMER POLYMETHYL METHACRYLATE TOCOPHERYL ACETATE ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE MAGNESIUM STEARATE SILICA SILYLATE DIPROPYLENE GLYCOL ALUMINA BHT SODIUM CITRATE TOCOPHEROL ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL MAY CONTAIN TITANIUM DIOXIDE IRON OXIDES BISMUTH OXYCHLORIDE

It also is supposed to be a great base for dry skinned gals and I can attest to that fact! I applied one layer, no primer or anything else and wore it around doing normal errands and household cleaning. I was out in the 98 degree weather and basically forgot I was wearing it until I happened to look in the bathroom mirror. I was surprised that it didn't make me look greasy and the glow was present. It also didn't feel like I was wearing anything on my face. One of the tests I make is whether it transfers on my phone and it did, but not a lot. Remember I didn't prime or set this foundation when I tried it.

Overall it lasted about 7 hours on my skin and around my mouth and nose it seemed to break up and disappear by that hour. However, I feel that if I wear it with primer and set it, that it will last longer for me. I never looked greasy and the glow looked natural and pretty.

Color me impressed and finding a good natural glowy foundation, especially in summer is a win! Have you tried this most talked about foundation? Do tell!!

Blessings, Sherry

Oldies but Goodies

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are some products that I have been using for a long time and if they are available I repurchase! Let me tell you about a few that make my makeup stash a little cooler :)!

 

 

The Revlon ColorStay Moisture Stains are a staple in my makeup stash. They are easy to throw in a purse, scrubs pocket and backpack. They don't leak, melt and go on smooth and the stain lasts on me for a good 4-5 hours. The range of shades call to my inner fun side!

 

Benefit Bathina Body Balm is something I purchased in the 80's and fell in love with. I have repurchased and love the subtle shimmer, the beautiful fragrance (they have since made a perfume with this scent!) and ease of application. It doesn't hurt that the packaging is fun and flirty!!!

 

Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat pen has been with me since the 90's and when I was younger it was perfect to cover my undereyes. As I have gotten older, the pen is a quick and easy highlighter. My purse is not without this as it is easy to touch up and look like I am alive!!

 

Benefit Benetint is another 80's find and a couple of drops on my cheeks or lips makes me happy. It stains well and lasts quite some time. It's still going strong in the Benefit lineup today.

 

Formula 10.05 Deep Down Detox mask is absolutely the best when I need to deep clean my face and the mud mask is no joke. It does dry me and strip me pretty quick after use but sets the skin up to drink up my moisturizer. Staple product for sure!

 

Benefit Dr. Feelgood Balm is an awesome silky refiner with some good for you ingredients. When I use it, it mattifies, soaks up oiliness and perfects my pores. Plus can we just give a moment for the cute package?

 

Last but not least is the Smith's Rosebud Salve. Long been a favorite of beauty/makeup lovers with good reason. Not only is it awesome for the lips, it handles rough cuticles, fly away hair and pats the stray eyebrow hair into place. The tin is cute and the benefits are noteworthy. The fragrance is subtle but pretty.

 

What are some of your oldie but goodies? Do tell!

 

Blessings, Sherry

Eyeshadow Primers in Rotation

 

 

 

 

For years I haven't used eyeshadow primers for 2 reasons: I was lazy and younger! The older I have gotten they have become necessary for the increasingly more wrinkled and dry my eyelids have become. Even with straight up proof that they help, I tend to get lazy and forget them. So I do them no matter what now. These are a few of my favorites.

 

 

Urban Decay Primer Potion in Minor Sin (I had the original back in the day) is multipurpose for me because I can wear it alone for a sheer wash of color. Also with my eyeshadow for a better adherence and color help. It does have a sheen to it but doesn't make my crepey lids look worse!

 

Milani Eyeshadow Primer. Affordable, easy to use and leaves a skin colored wash on the lid. It covers veins and discoloration very well. A little goes a long way!



IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Lid Lines. This has a doe foot applicator, a skintone color and definitely helps eyeshadows pop and last longer. My gripe with this is that the tube doesn't hold a lot of product and it's expensive. I feel like I get ripped off when I buy this and I love IT Cosmetics a LOT.

Christian Dior Backstage Eye Prime. Expensive, a little goes a long way. The color is also skintone and covers well. It's a bit thicker than other primers that I have used. Seriously, the less expensive primers perform just as well.

Urban Decay Primer Potion Anti-Aging. Another Urban Decay primer that does the same but with anti-aging properties that drew me in as my eyelids are "mature" :). Wears well, takes a little and definitely makes the eyeshadows stick and last.

I plan on trying some more drugstore primers in the future as I have found that the less expensive products in some categories perform just as well as high end. What are your favorite eye primers? Would love to know your thoughts!

Blessings, Sherry

Makeup Geek Love

I had never tried any Makeup Geek products until this last 2 weeks and I am very impressed! I decided to buy their small z-palette, a blush in Spellbound and a duochrome (I'm addicted to duochromes) shadow.

First, the packaging from the box it was sent in to the box that the z-palette came are top notch. The shadow and blush are finely milled and pigmented. Basically the small tryout order I placed made me want to order 30 more!!!

I also adore Marlena, her personality and infectious laugh as well as the hard work she puts into her company. It is so refreshing to have a company that you would want to share with everyone and not be embarrassed about their "public issues". Hmmm ummm :).

All in all, I see my future self making orders to have some fun with the gorgeous and well made products that Makeup Geek produce! Check out their website ya'll! makeupgeek.com you won't be disappointed!

What are your favorite MG products if you have some? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

Summer Morning Face Needs

 

 

 

 

Texas is HOT and my face needs several things to protect and treat. The above products are a necessary and easy way to do just that. Let's talk about these!

 

 

Nuance Cleansing Facial Oil (just found out that they no longer carry this :(). This does an excellent job cutting through sunscreen residue, foundations and waterproof/resistant products. No odor to deal with and good for your skin ingredients.

 

 

Biore Baking Soda Cleansing Scrub. Gentle, cool on the face and best for daily exfoliation.

 

 

Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser. Great ending to the morning face wash. The glycolic acid is a necessity in my (aging face) skincare. No odor, a little goes a long way and washes without stripping my skin.

 

 

Ole Henricksen Truth Serum Collagen Boost. Chock full of Vitamin C and great for hyperpigmentation and prevention. Smells like an orange creamsicle and a couple of drops are a way that I can help my skin daily.

 

 

NuFace Powerhouse Peptide serum. This is absolutely awesome in that it protects and shields the skin from free radicals and sun damage. No odor and sinks in quickly.

 

 

Benefit Dream Screen SPF 40. Goes without saying, sunscreen is a must and this dries down almost matte and has no irritating odor. One of many sunscreens that I rotate.

 

Garnier Anti-Age eye cream. Now this is technically a night cream on it's label but I love how it does smooth my undereyes and almost has a silicone "slip". Not greasy, not heavy and perfect for hot sweaty days.

 

 

Skincare has been my main focus for about a year now and I am constantly tweaking the lineup but have loved using this for my summer cleansing. What are your favorite summer skincare must-haves? Do tell!

 

Thanks for stopping by the blog, Blessings, Sherry

Milani Everyday Eye Palettes

Milani Everyday Eyes in left: Earthy Elements, right: Bare Necessities
Swatches: Top: Bare Necessities
                  Bottom: Earthy Elements



I grabbed these palettes from my local Walgreens because they looked just like what I would wear in the spring and summer months. They are nudish (?) and basic and right up my alley. They each have mattes included as follows: in Earthly Elements the 2nd and 3rd from the left respectively and the second from left in Bare Necessities (ok I CANNOT get out the Jungle Book song outta my head now!)

There is plenty of shimmer in the other colors but not disco ball shimmer and not enough to run my older eyelids away from using them. There is a fair amount of fallout/powdery kickup and several of the colors have to be built up to get it to show on the eyelids. But, overall I am pleased with these easy to use and very well thought out palettes. I am also one of those that love having the instructions on the back that gives me ideas on how to place on my eye. Adventurous much Sherry?

I didn't need another palette, absolutely not. But hey, these are compact, lid closes tightly and great size for traveling. They carry everything I would need for a complete eye and a couple of shades that could be put to use as blush and highlighter. I adore multitasking products. So there you have it. They came out as a big deal and I think they are a big deal.

Now I have to play with that orange/burnt sienna one in the Earthly Elements. Because ya'll that is outta my comfort zone LOL.

PS: The brushes included are rather good, surprised :)

Blessings, Sherry

Wet N Wild Fergie Viscious Varnish High Shine Lip Stain

Dollar Tree find:
From top:
A307 Ball in Viena
A306 Global Fierceness
A305 Legendary Face
A309 Epic
A303 Street Queen

Brush Cleaning and Tips from blogger/vloggers

Brush cleaning is a chore, no doubt about it. Although I have met some ladies who love it because it's therapeutic (kind of like me scrubbing the house). There are scads of products to clean them including nubby mats that look like soap dishes. And there are lots of liquid products that clean them as well. Everybody does it differently and uses different products Below I will show you some products and also some tips that I learned from other people.

I didn't use brushes in my makeup routine until the last 5 years, yes seriously the last FIVE years. Now that I am getting more proficient with them, I can't imagine doing some things on my face without them! I have just always washed my brushes with gentle shampoo and laid them out on a towel to dry. No wrong way I say!

Stock photos from Internet

 

 

There are soooo many cleansers and I also found some DIY recipes in my search. All different price points as well.

 



There are "trees" to hang your brushes upside down, machines to whirl them around to dry them and loads of DIY brush hangers!

 

Pic from Internet stock photos

Some people soak them and then scrub them. Some spritz and rub on a towel. Now here are some tips that I researched and now use several of them!

 

 

1) Those jars/bottles/cups that hold my brushes and get covered with dust? I used to cover them with Saran wrap to keep dust off them and my hubby used to laugh. An Instagram tip was to put them in a cardboard box to store between uses. The first picture is the zippered makeup bag that I now keep mine in AND it freed up space on my vanity!

 



2) You don't have to spend big bucks on cleanser solution! There are lots of DIY recipes on the web and a tip I got was buy an inexpensive large bottle of Dr. Bonner's Castille Soap (liquid) and dilute it with water. Will last a looooonnnggg time and smell good to boot!

 

3) Now available are brush cleaner wipes if you are in a hurry and/or want to use the same brush while you are doing your makeup. EcoTools has a pack for $7 at Walmart, MAC, Milk makeup and other brands carry them as well. Random thought: why wouldn't makeup remover wipes work? Hmmm

 

4) Schedule your brush cleaning. Ok, that might work for some people and although it sounds good in theory, I am lazy, seriously. It's like scrubbing windows. *Sigh

 

So ladies, tell me your brush cleaning and storing tips. Would love to hear how you make this as easy and wonderful as possible!

 

Blessings, Sherry

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



The Written Note in a Digital World

This is going to sound so frickin old LOL!  We are a people and generation of internet: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Tumblr etc. We are the instant gratification generation and it usually works that way because internet has allowed us that "now". Nothing whatsoever wrong with the speed and efficacy of the internet, I would be lost without it!

The story starts with me sending some random cards/letters out via snail mail to some friends and family. I got shocked reactions because nobody writes letters or really sends postcards anymore. This led to a discussion about how there are people who have their day made if they receive a card or letter in the mail.

I have some really pretty stationary, some gorgeous cards and plenty of envelopes that just sit in my office. So I challenged myself to get them out, pick a card and pick a person and send away. Something funny, encouraging, commiserating, praising and just letting that person know what they mean to me and how they have done great in their lives. Simple right?

My mailbox only gets circulars, a couple of bills (as I pay most online) and packages. I can't remember the last time (other than Christmas) that I received a letter/card from my family or friends! But do you remember when you did get snail mail? How it made you feel?

I even think that Thank you cards aren't sent anymore because of email and texting. So I am making an effort to use those stationary and stamps that have been sitting around and brighten someone up with a little snail mail.

Have you written off writing in this digital world? Do you have stationary that makes you happy? I challenge you to drop someone a letter or card and watch the love and positivity!

Blessings, Sherry

Bare Minerals Products for an easy summer face

Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream
                         BareSkin Sheer Sun Serum Bronzer
                         Correcting Concealer Duo in zipper case


When it comes to summer, easy is queen. Texas is frickin hot and lately the humidity is off the charts! Enter a trio that makes my life easy and lets me look at least put together.

The Complexion Rescue gel is absolutely a must for my dry (yet sweaty) skin. Light to medium coverage, easy to apply and a bit cooling on the face. A serious no brainer in my book.

The correcting concealer and mineral veil setting powder, I use to cover those pesky dark circles and hyperpigmentation. Set with the powder and yowza, I look alive!

Ok so I fell in love with the Sheer Sun serum bronzer. Quick, easy and a believable warmth to my face without looking overboard. It's sheer and gorgeous!

A quick swipe of mascara, a bright lippie and I'm out the door. SO what are your simple summer face secrets and products? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

Lip plumpers for mature lips!

NYX pump it up lip plumper
BITE Beauty Cinnamon Plumping Lip Oil
Physicians Formula Plump Potion
Soap & Glory sexy Mother Pucker
Soap & Glory sexy Mother Pucker Extreme Plump


Ya'll I have a set of "mature" lips, I ain't gonna lie! About 6 months ago I shopped my stash and found that I had some neglected lip plumpers and an idea was born.

Normally when I do my makeup for the day, I put on a balm or other lip product to "percolate" while I am doing my face. Enter lip plumpers. I started using these as my lip product to get my lips ready for the day and boy has it made a difference!

Now I will tell you straight up that lip plumpers sting is my jam. No I am not a masochist, I just think that they are working better LOL.  Back in the day DuWop lip plumpers were all the rage (hey I think I have one still!) and they stung let me tell ya. These are more on the DL and not as painful, but they work to even out the wrinkly lips and subtly plump them up before I put on my lippie of choice for the day.

So now it's straight up routine every time I get my face ready and it works. So, the lip plumpers are in rotation and I think it will remain in rotation!

What ae ya'lls lip plumper favs? Horror stories? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

Oils for cleansing- The Saga

Nuance Marigold Oil Cleansing Facial Oil
Holistix Lite Oil Treatment-Argan
Physicians Formula Argan Oil
Marula Foaming Cleansing Oil
Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil


The older and drier I get, the more I use oils in the majority of my skincare and bodycare. I especially like to first cleanse with an oil. Oils are definitely having their moment in the spotlight. You can get many at all different pricepoints and from a scad of brands. I found that getting sunscreen off my face requires an oil to get it completely off my skin!

The first one (you can tell it's much loved) Nuance roped me in when I was looking for an oil to cleanse my face. I was at CVS and these products were intriguing. Now this oil is definitely my favorite to use for first cleanse and works well without leaving me greasy. I just found out today after much research that CVS doesn't carry this anymore. NNNNNOOOOOO. You can purchase this on Amazon I found. But never fear, there are plenty of oils to use for cleansing!

The next 2 are not sold as cleansing oils; however, I use them that way.

The Holistix I purchased at Whole Foods and being that it is Lite I don't feel like a grease slick after using this product. It also is very nourishing. It can be found on Amazon for around $16.

Physicians Formula has topped the game with many of their products including Argan oil, cosmetics and skincare items. This one is great as an off label cleanser, but works especially well for dry skin!

The Marula Foaming Cleanser I received in one of the Sephora Favorites kits and fell in loooovvveee. Then I found out Sephora doesn't carry it anymore!!!! The Marula website sells them for $34 for a big bottle. Not sure I want to pay that much :(

Josie Maran is famous for her Argan oil line and has the regular and light versions of this product. I have one bottle of the light and this sample size in regular. I have to use these sparingly to clean as they are seriously potent and can leave me greasy in a heartbeat. However, a little goes a long way!

Winter time, the oils just have a multi purpose use and they feel so nourishing. In the Texas summer, these are only used for cleansing and dry knees, heels and elbows.

Do you have favorite cleansing oils? Any you recommend? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

Holy Toledo Mascaras

Ladies, this is my poor lashes without a stitch of product on. They are very blonde and puny looking without mascara. So I thought I would show you some of my favs and how they work. Please excuse the super bushy brows, this girl has never had brows done and think it's time!!!

All mascaras shown on my eyes are one coat, no primer, straight up. Also because I am old and blind as a bat without my readers on, the mascara smudge problem is real LOL.

 

Givenchy Nior Coutoure Mascara

 

The wand is the iconic 3 stage areas and gets super into the lashes. It is a "wet" formula but dries quickly. I was turned on to this mascara by a Sephora associate, AND given a lesson!!

 



Tarte Lights Camera Lashes

This wand is my preferred. Not too bulky big but just right! This is a sample that I received and although it just lengthens, it doesn't bulk them up. Still like this though.

IT Cosmetics Hello Lashes Extensions

Another iconic wand with the ball on the end to really get into the spots that are missed. Definitely makes my lashes long and has a bit of bulk to them. On a side note if I get this in my hands it burns like FIRE.

 

Loreal Voluminous Butterfly Sculpt

 

 

This wand has had a lot of buzz in the beauty world. But for me, this wand kicks butt! It lengthens, bulks and get the corners really well. Love how this looks on my eyes.

 

 



CoverGirl The Super Sizer

This wand is skinny minny and the formula is "wet". This one shocked me at how much it lengthened and my hubby even had something to say about my lashes when I tried this one on. Albino blonde lashes be gone!!!!


These are currently in my rotation (although waterproof mascaras are needed in this heat!), and several of these surprised me that I liked them so much. What are your favorite mascaras? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

YouTube/Blogger Stars-My take

This topic may get under somebody's skin and I say "Oh well"! Because I have on opinion and that is alright ya'll.


I admit I'm addicted to YouTube and Snapchat, ain't no shame in my game. However, lately I have felt a little perturbed about some of those "guru's". Here is why.

These people are looked up to by scads of followers, a LOT of them young girls and guys. They hang on every word, thought and video and snap. Nothing wrong with that. But they also get star struck and idolize these gurus, without remembering they are human just like us.

They do laundry, clean the house, get their oil changed in their car, have pimples, relationship woes, work their asses off, have moody/cranky days and generally act like us for the most part. A large part of their posts/vids/pics/snaps show the good life, the good parts. And some get too big for their britches,  as we say here in Texas.

I have found several that are relatable, show the real life and don't think they are better than everybody else. I gravitate to those. The reason this has hit is I have a niece who thinks they are "better" than, heroes to be worshipped at the alter of beauty. STOP right there. If a "guru" is big and has tons of followers, most of the time it's because they worked hard and had collabs and yep got lucky.

No matter the star in the beauty world, there will always be hate, jealousy and cattiness because they are seen as people who "have it all". So NO hate, no cattiness and except that these people put their pants on just like you. They shop for groceries just like you. They made it because they had something to offer the YouTube community.

All in all, it's up to us, the viewer/reader to see the human behind the camera. It's up to us to talk to the young 'uns and keep it real. It's up to us to let said young 'un that just because they didn't answer your comment doesn't mean they are gods of beauty and wouldn't stoop to the lowly.

Yes, a lot have their noses in the air, no humbleness and think they are above the masses. That's about them and not about you. So, next time you get "star struck", check yourself and give a thought to how that person acts to the people who helped them get there, that's your barometer.

Many of them have sold out to commercialism and I feel their vids are commercials. Nothing wrong with that, don't hate, if you're uncomfortable move on ya'll. There's a big pond of fishes out there who still let the masses have the best of them. Those are the ones that make the community.

So rant over, I still will be addicted to YouTube and Snapchat and Instagram, because let's face it, a lot of the stuff I try I heard about from those "gurus". Moving on.

Blessings, Sherry

June is Migraine Awareness month- a personal story

Picture from Pinterest.com-unknown artist


The morning when you are having coffee and your husband carefully says, "How are you feeling?". This means are you still having a migraine and are you able to do some stuff that needs to be done? This also means, will this day end me in the emergency room with uncontrolled nausea and vomiting and unrelenting pain? I have had severe migraines since I was 5, diagnosed at 18 and continue to search for that elusive medication/treatment/trigger prevention/life altering help. Imitrex when it came out in 1996 was the first medication to abort a migraine if I caught it really quick. Imitrex is still in my life in a big way and still can abort/lessen a migraine if I am able to take it pretty quickly. I know every trigger, I know to stay cool and not overheat, I know to get sleep no matter what.

People who have severe, chronic migraines may do weird things to prevent or lessen an attack, may call off a family get together or holiday because they are just unable to even sit up or function. Jobs can get pissed off with you when you have to call in or get so very sick while at work. There are so many times I wished I could do the things I needed and wanted to do but just couldn't. Lots of guilt and shame go along with severe and chronic migraines.

Because people cannot see the migraine, only the vomiting or crying or other outward signs, they may think that you are trying to get out of doing something or to just lie down all the time. I would give anything to not have migraines and to function "normally". Whatever normal may mean!

I continue to do and research and try and move through day to day taking the very best of myself. I have some great things that work, I have backup plans, I am lessening the shame and guilt that I experience because I am not responsible for a migraine happening to me, I am responsible for how I act and decisions I make.

Last June 2015, I saw a new neurologist and she does Botox for severe, chronic migraines. I was skeptical but after hearing my insurance paid full for this treatment, I jumped. (Thank you to my husband who works his ass off for this insurance!) We started out with small doses and worked up to 100 units of Botox in my scalp, neck, throat, temples, forehead. With cautious optimism I have now had 3 doses 3 months apart and head for my 4th this coming Friday. It is not the be all end all and does NOT work against weather systems and heat/humidity. But I am able to thwart an oncoming migraine better. I will take it.

Yeppers, I have tried everything under the sun and will continue to try the weirdest and most sought after methods. But for today, I just do what I can, take care of myself the best I can and learn to make the best of migraine hell.

A personal post for sure, but a lot of people have severe chronic pain and illness and disease that aren't always seen. Take care of you today and reach out for help should you need it, everyone needs someone. Blessings, Sherry

Foundations YouTube and Bloglovin made me buy!

I recently purchased some YouTube, Bloglovin made me buy it foundations. Cushion foundations are having a momentary trend and the Milani is breaking the internet! The Covergirl Age Less foundation intrigued me because hey let's face it, I'm 50 this year and have a "mature" face LOL.

The Loreal Lumi Cushion foundation worked very well on my skin, light but covered my redness and easily buildable. Loved the ease and portability as well.

The Milani Conceal and Perfect foundation was thicker and had medium to full coverage. It covered my redness and hyperpigmentation. It actually lasted on me for about 6 hours before breaking up. Overall I was impressed with this.

The Covergirl Age Less has foundation and serum/lotion mixed and is a bit thick but blends well. I liked that it covered well and can be buildable. I was surprised that it made my face smooth and lively looking. Anything that makes my face look younger is tops in my book!

Seriously impressed with these foundations and their coverage. Have you tried any of these? What are your thoughts? Any I should try? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

Testing Face/Makeup Setting Powders

Setting powders can be dangerous territory as well as a great product. Why you ask? There's the too much, cakey face, powdery, dry look that ain't pretty girls. Then there is the soft, easy, light touch application that can work wonders for your face. Add age, mature and often dry skin  AND hot flashes and the dynamic can change again!

I have never really worn many face powders in my life, essentially my skin always leaned to dry instead of oily when it was acting up. The older I get and the dryer my skin tends to be I am cautious when applying. I get the fabulous T-Zone slick and in Texas the 100+ degree weather makes me sweat buckets!

Old school powders have been trumped by powders that are finely milled, wonderfully translucent and virtually undetectable on the skin these days. You can find products in all price points and brands and I decided to check several out and give you my thoughts. Keep reading!


ELF HD Powder in Hint of Tint
I picked this up for several reasons: inexpensive, great brand, pretty consistent reviews. I purchased mine at CVS. The hint of tint was exactly what I was looking for as a topper for a minimal makeup look, or just when I am wearing sunscreen for a weekend on the lake. I was surprised when I opened this; the powder was quite finely milled. Great packaging with a sifter top. In my hand the powder looked eerily red/orange and I was almost scared to try this! On the face though, wonderful light coverage and the color doesn't pull orange on me. I use this sparingly, it can get cakey quickly.

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Translucent Powder
Leans a little to the expensive side, great brand, great packaging. This powder is very finely milled and literally just melts into my skin and "blurred" my nose, cheek area where my pores are more pronounced. Did not cake on me at all and I found that it helped that area to hang on to my makeup a little longer as well.

Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Correcting Powder in Translucent
Middle of the road expense wise, easy to find, in a compact. This powder is portable, pretty sturdy packaging. I lean veeerrryyyy red in my face and this powder shows swirls of very finely milled color correcting shades: lavender, green, yellow. Swirled together and placed on my nose (worst area of constant redness) I saw an immediate brightening and correcting. Also use as a finishing makeup product. Gets cakey only after many swipes!

Coty Airspun Translucent Extra Coverage
Oldie but goodie and still available after all these years. Middle of the road price wise, decent sturdy packaging with sifter top. The powder is not as finely milled as the IT powder but disappears quickly into the skin. Can get cakey quickly on me if I am not careful. There is a huge drawback for me and that is the fragrance of this powder. It is quite heavily floral, powdery and although I love my grandma, the fragrance reminds me of an antique makeup table or perfume that would be worn. Since I have migraines from hell, I am quick to be careful about super fragranced products on my face. Other than that, I like this old school powder.

Ben Nye Banana Powder
I purchased mine online and in trial size but it was super inexpensive, travel size sifter top container. As I have mentioned I lean very red in my face and yellow helps to neutralize the redness. It also is great for my undereyes when setting my concealer. It is very finely milled, no fragrance and although it's milled well, it will cake up QUICK. This has been a go to, especially in the summer heat and through my hot flashes!

Tarte Smooth Operator in Translucent
Leans toward expensive, simple packaging, sifter top. Has Micronized Clay. Another great finely milled powder, brightening and no cakiness noted when using. Seems to also "blur" pores and fine lines. Fragrance free.

I am careful with ANY powder not to heavily layer on my face; however, I do use these for setting makeup, undereyes and random touch ups necessary. I did try to "bake" my face and although I noticed an immediate brightening and smoothness, it rapidly declined into the Sahara and wasn't a cute look. So I will stick to using these as needed, random touch ups and setting.

What are your favorite setting powders? Any experience with the ones here? Do tell!

Blessings, Sherry

2016 #favsummerlippies

I love me some spring/summer lippies. I have several requirements: easy, quick, pretty and some staying glossy power if possible!

The list in order (corresponds with swatches from top)
Revlon Balm Stain     020 Lovesick
                                   025 Sweetheart Valentine
Revlon Balm Mat       260 Passionate
Bare Minerals Pop of Passion in Plumberry Pop
ELF Moisturizing Lipstick in Flirty and Fabulous
Hard Candy Plumping Serum Lipstick
                                     871 Victorious
                                      867 Wanted
Revlon Colorstay Moisture Stain in 020 Rio Rush
Dior Addict Fluid  Stick in 754 Pandore


SO, here are some items that are all on the spectrum of price points and brands. For me, they are some of the easiest to wear, the most beautiful that make me feel happy and some of the least inexpensive options as well!!!

After applying the swatches, the Revlon Balm Stains, Revlon Moisture Stain and Dior Fluid Stick were the hardest to get off my arm! That is how I know that they have a CHANCE of staying on my lips. Unfortunately, my lips love to drink up every single product that is put on them, ALL the time. So when I can get 4-6 hours wear out of something that is yowza!!!

I am unable to put any lippie other than something in a tube in my pocket at work or any ordinary day because I am a menopausal woman and I have MELTED lippies in my pockets from my hot flashes and body heat, sigh. SO, these crayon style lippies actually don't melt down and can be applied without a mirror on the fly. Same with the tubes of Revlon Colorstay Moisture Stain and Dior Fluid Stick.

These are seriously just a few as I am a #lippieaddict and have errmmm well let's just say the number is high :)! But these are the ones I have been reaching for these last 2 weeks. So ladies, do you have any recommendations for lippies for summer? or for menopausal woman haha? Do tell!!!

Hope you are staying cool, Blessings, Sherry