Sister Style: Spring Wish List

Thanks again to those of you that are continuing to meet me here (and on FB/Instagram/etc.), leave comments, etc.  It has meant so much to me the past few days to know that the little community we have built is not dependent on a domain name... You guys are the best!

On that note, change is on its way here friends (or, well, not here... but you know what I mean).  I'm busy brainstorming and dreaming behind the scenes for something new on the horizon, but - in the meantime - I thought I'd go ahead and share some of the content I already had ready to go for E, Myself, and I... Like spring wish lists, naturally...

The weather here has been SO crazy this year.  Up until a few days ago, we had eight feet of snow on the ground, and yesterday it was almost 70 degrees outside!  I can't keep up!!!

Anyway, these sunny days have given me spring fever BAD.  And, while y'all may not have cared one way or the other about it, but I had a lot of fun doing last week's "Sister Style" post with my sis Kathryn.  SO.... I asked her to come back today to talk Spring Wish Lists!  Because this feels a little less greedy than giving our mom a handwritten list for our spring birthdays. ;)

Here's what I'm eyeing lately:

E's Spring Wish List

(Click the link for all the sources!)

Basically, I'm loving bright pastels, monograms (duh), neutral sandals, and Gap skinny jeans.  Ahhh.

And, Kathryn's:

KK's Spring Wish List

(Click the link for all the sources!)

I love how you can totally see our differences in these lists.  Kathryn is 100% the type to pull off a Tory Burch purse with Old Navy jeans and a fedora.  I love it - and am a little jealous to be honest. *Also, just a note, she says that she actually owns that dress in black and the colored pants in red and calls them the "most flattering things ever."  Who can resist that?!?

What's on your spring wish list?

Sister Style: Make-up Steals & Splurges

When I visited my sister a few weekends ago, I was (as always) amazed and enlightened by her make-up collection/ expertise.  A lot of people think we look a lot a like, but I feel like our style (especially when it comes to make-up etc.) couldn't be more different.  It's actually kind-of fun, you know?  She's like my fancier/trendier/more made-up twin*. ;)

Do you remember when she took me make-up shopping for my 29th birthday?  It was SO fun, and my "Natural Make-up for Freckle Faces" from that post is one of the most 'pinned' images from this blog... She's a good one to have around.  Anyway, that gave me the idea to start asking Kathryn to contribute here more often and share some of her favorite beauty products and style advice with YOU, so I'm starting up a new "occasional series" called: Sister Style (original, I know).

This way, if you're into those kind of things too, you'll get some of Kathryn's great advice; or, if you're more like me, you can live vicariously through her too!  What do you think? (Do you think we look alike?)

On to today....

Not only is my sister totally beautiful and could - easily - be a make-up artist for a living - but she's also a total product junkie.  If it's out there, she's probably tried it!  Luckily for me, that means she almost always has a "cheap option" for some of the best products on the market, and knows when to save and when to splurge.  (Most of the time, I would much rather spend my money on fancy pens or gummy bears.)

So, here is her complete make-up regime (she says it honestly isn't as much as it looks like) with a 'steal' and a 'splurge' for each:

*The little star indicates which one she personally uses on a regular basis, although, she switches it up all the time!

Face Wash: Garnier Cleansing Oil ($8) / Philosophy Purity Made Simple ($40)
Primer: Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer ($7) / Benefit The POREfessional ($30) 
Foundation: L'Oreal True Match Lumi Foundation ($13) / Tarte Amazonian Clay ($38) 
Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer ($9) / Benefit Boi-ing Concealer ($20) 
Bronzer: Rimmel Natural Bronzer ($5) / Lorac TANtalizer Baked Bronzer ($32) 
Blush: NYX Powder Blush ($6) / Benefit CORALista ($28) 
Highlighter: NYX Born to Glow Illuminator ($7.50) / Laura Geller Baked Split ($42.50) 
Finishing Powder: NYX HD Studio Finishing Powder ($10) / NARS Light Reflecting ($35)

Lipstick: Maybelline 14-Hour in 'Perpetual Peony' ($9) / Tarte Amazonian Butter ($16)

Eyeshadow: NYX Eyeshadow Pallete ($10) / Urban Decay Naked3 Pallete ($52)

Mascara: Maybelline Illegal Length ($9) / Benefit They're Real ($23)

Eyebrow: Rimmel Professional Eyebrow Pencil ($4) / Benefit Gimme Brow ($22)

*To keep things simple, I used Ulta.com for all of the above links and prices (except for the NARS product, which isn't sold there).  This is in NO way sponsored, and these products - obviously - can be bought in lots of different places.  Prices vary.

Personally, I (E) tend towards less expensive face wash and creams, nicer face make-up & blush (both by Benefit), many of the NYX products (I love their eyeshadow, illuminator, and finishing spray), & Maybelline mascara. What about you? Do you use any of these products?  What items do you splurge on and which do you save?  Please share some of your favorites in the comments!

What else would you like to see from my sis?

What Would You Wear on The Bachelor?

Good morning!  After spending the last twenty-four hours in bed with the stomach flu, you can imagine how happy I was to get today off due to pending winter weather.  Right now, it is flurrying something fierce, but I still have my fingers crossed for a good snow before it is all said and done...

I wasn't on my A-game for last night's episode of The Bachelor; but, overall, I think Juan Pablo has a really pretty set of girls that have a real whining problem.  I still really like Andi and am undecided on pretty much everyone else.  (Chelsie, surprisingly, actually moved up a little for me last night even despite the fact that she was a total goon over jumping off that bridge.) Also, I could listen to Juan Pablo talk all day - he is the cutest.  What do you think? 

www.abc.com

Anyway, I think we can all agree that, aside from Juan Pablo's accent, the best part of this show is looking at all the girls' outfits and different styles from week to week...  Today we are playing a little game where we get to choose what we would wear if the producers called and asked us to pack our bags for the show. I hope you will join me!

Before we begin, there are a few rules to the game:

1.) Money is no object.

2.) You are the perfect weight/height/skin tone/ etc. to wear whatever you fancy.

3.) There are no seasons. It can easily be 40 degrees for one girl and 80 for another on the exact same day.

*Also, if at all possible, you should link to the items you choose just in case one of us really does go on The Bachelor one day and needs it. ;)

Ok, now, on to the "packing..."

First, let's be honest, you're going to be spending most of your time sitting with 10 other girls at the "Bachelor Mansion" (not that I'd complain, this seems like reason enough to go on the show for me). I'm always pretty mesmerized by the variety of outfits people wear during this time.  Some look like they had NO idea they were actually going to be on national television (Kelly), and some look like they are ready for a beauty pagent at any time (Elise).

Lounging:

You really can't go wrong with a good pair of black leggings and a chambray button up, am I wrong? Plus, if we're in the business of spending money on uselessly expensive things and pretending we will look good in whatever we wear, why not throw in a fun pair of New Balance shoes for JCrew and an embroidered emblem baseball cap in bright colors to make you stand out a little from the rest of the girls. :)  This outfit says, I'm casual, sporty, and classy.

The One-on-One Date:

We all know the hardest thing to dress for is the infamous "date card."  I like to believe that the girls are given more guidance on what to wear than what we get, but based on the number of girls that wear heels to an amusement park or to go sledding, I'm doubtful.  So, the challenge here is to look casual enough for a picnic or jumping off a bridge, and fancy enough for a private concert (duh!) or a photo shoot. 

I've pretty much fallen in love with the Tekoa Tank from Anthropologie for its details and versatility.  I love that, from far away, it looks super simple and casual, but up close the beading and detail is beautiful.

With skinny jeans, a great leather jacket (vegan, of course), and a pop of color in your shoes, it is PERFECT.  For the most part, I think you are always better off going casual than over-doing it, so I even love the simple low pony tail and stud earrings the model has on; but, you could easily dress this up with a nice pair of heels and some fun earrings.  (If only I got to plan some of these girls date outfits - ahem Cassandra. Right?!?)

Cocktail Party/ Rose Ceremony:

Marchesa Couture Sequin Tunic Dress from Bergdorf Goodman

Here's something you may not know about me - I have a secret love for sequins.  I just think - when done correctly - they are so pretty and look so sophisticated.  I don't think I have ever once worn anything sequin because, frankly, they wouldn't be appropriate for the kind of events I go to; but, you better believe I'd be rocking them on The Bachelor.  How great is this dress?  With some strappy heels and big diamond studs.  LOVE.


Ok, there you have it girls.  Now it's your turn to share what you would wear for lounging, a one-on-one date, and the cocktail party/rose ceremony.  Write your own post and link up below!! Go crazy!

P.S. Who is watching THE WEDDING on Sunday night?!?!  I follow Sean and Catherine on Instagram, so we are basically BFFs.  I love them!!!

Would You Get a Pixie Cut?

First, a quick note: THANK YOU for your sweet words and participation in my Get & GIVE Away yesterday!  I have absolutely loved reading all of your comments and hearing about the charities that are close to your hearts.  I love this community so much and can't wait to see all the good we can do together! (Contest runs through Dec. 15th.  Click here to enter.)

*Also, for those of you that prayed for my friend Annie on Thanksgiving Day after I told you about doctors finding cancer in one of her ovaries. They got the results of 19 biopsies back yesterday and found NO more cancer! She will not have to have chemo or receive any other treatments. THANK YOU for your prayers - God works miracles!! :)


And now, on to the (very important) regularly scheduled programming...

So, I saw Catching Fire over the break.  LOVED it.  It made me think about a lot of things, but mostly - my hair.  Naturally.  Surely you've heard by now about Jennifer Lawrence being the latest star to chop off all her hair...

Source

I guess its just the latest "it" thing; but, many of the most classic beauties in Hollywood today have sported the pixie cut at some time or another...

Google Image search for "celebrities with pixie cuts"

I've actually always really liked this style.  (I think Selma Blair's hair in the late 1990s was the first time I ever paid attention to it.)  There is just something about really short hair on a woman it that just says "confidence" and "class" to me.  My friend Libby - who cut her hair into an adorable pixie after finishing chemo treatment a few years ago - says her husband was crazy about the cut.  He said there was nothing she could hide behind.  (Who knew I could get so deep about a haircut, right?)

Anyway, I love it, but I've always felt like I could never pull it off.  My face is too round.  My face is too boring.  I am too short.  I am not skinny.  I don't wear enough dramatic eye make-up. 

I'm happy with my long hair for now; but, I wonder if I will ever have the courage to do the chop.  I kind-of hope so!

Would you get a pixie cut?  Why or why not?

My Fall "Uniform"

Have you seen this article that's been floating around the internet this month? According to its writer, there are eight things every happy woman should have: a go-to drink/ a go-to karaoke song/ a uniform/ a hair stylist they love/ an exercise routine/ a hobby/ a best friend/ a healthy sense of self.

I think the list is fun; but, while I think I'm a pretty happy woman, I don't have a go-to drink (unless you count diet coke), a go-to karaoke song ("Wheels on the Bus"?), or an exercise routine (oops).  Obviously, its hard to really build a case around any of these things (except maybe #7 & #8) really being essential to happiness; but, regardless, it's fun to think about. 

In particular, I've been thinking about #3 - a uniform. (Deep, I know.)

Lest you think I'm talking about a plaid skirt and knee socks, let me explain... Your "uniform" is your go-to style.  It's the basic components that make up all (most) of your favorite outfits.  It is the look you feel the most comfortable, the most beautiful, the most you in.   If someone were to draw a picture of you from memory, this is the outfit you'd be wearing.  Are you with me?

Anyway, I've been cleaning out my closet/switching to fall clothes for the last couple of months days, and I've been particularly aware of my own uniform.  Now that I'm actually paying attention to it, it's a little ridiculous to be honest... My uniform is SO uniform that I probably should go to some sort of stripe rehab branch out a little bit.  But, regardless, I'm thankful to have settled on a look that is "signature" me.

Here it is:

The only thing I actually own from the above photo are the shoes (Tarjay baby); but, my favorite outfits almost always involve some variation of stripes, jeans, flats, and a statement necklace (oh, and pearls... always pearls).  Obviously there are variations of this for the work week (substitute black pants or cords for jeans) or different seasons (add cute blazer, replace necklace with scarf, wear boots instead of flats); but, this look is pretty standard for me.  I think it says "I'm casual, but I'm classy", which is just the way I like to think of myself. ;) 

#seewhatImean? #thosearedifferentshirts #Samwearstheuniformtoo

So, do you have a uniform?  What is it?

Do I have any other stripe lovers out there? (ahem, Sara)

Does anyone want to buy me that Kate Spade bag? ;)

Does anyone else still switch their clothes over each season?

Have I asked enough questions yet?


Happy Hump Day friends!  I'm headed to the Allume conference bright and early tomorrow morning, but I've got some great Working Mom guest posts lined up for the next couple of days.

Enjoy the rest of your week!


P.S. If you see me at Allume, please say hello!  I'll be the one in stripes! ;) #butseriously
 

Fall Wedding Attire: Maxi Dresses

I may have mentioned that Jeff and I are attending a total of five weddings from September 7th - November 2nd.  I LOVE weddings and I always consider it a huge honor to be invited, so I'm not complaining; but, I am a little stressed about how to dress for these occasions (especially since Mother Nature can't seem to decide what season it is lately).

I think I've decided, for the most part, that maxi dresses with accessories are the way to go.  The maxi dress is SO comfy, it hides my pasty white legs, can easily be dressed up or down depending on the event (think outdoor barn wedding to formal church wedding), accommodates a variety of temperatures by adding/subtracting accessories, AND is typically considered a "summer" dress so there are some great sales going on right now.

Of course, wearing a maxi dress in the fall presents obvious shoe and wrap dilemmas, but - with the help of Pinterest - I think I've got some good options...

These are my top two "inspiration" photos:

From my favorite fashion blogger - Kendi

From 2dayslook.com

I already have a navy maxi dress, so I might use that; but, I also just got this outfit (below) for a STEAL (the whole outfit was less than $50.00) at Old Navy to play around with.  I will probably wear either my cowboy boots or camel riding boots with either one. What do you think?

I also ADORE the kimono-style maxi dress (like the one below from Mod Cloth) but it's out of stock and the price tag is a little too hefty for me right now...

So, do you have a 'go to' look for fall weddings?  Any tips for styling a maxi dress for cooler weather?  Please share!



P.S. None of this is sponsored, FYI.  I just like these styles and love a good deal!

Mom/Teacher Approved: Cute AND Comfy Shoes for Work and Play (+ $100 to spend at Zappos.com)

I have to admit something, and I really hope it won't change your opinion of me... Are you ready? 

I am not a shoe person.

It isn't that I don't like shoes, I've just always been the type to choose a new blouse (or five) over a cute pair of shoes.  I've always been kind-of hard on my shoes too; so, consequently, I've got a closet full of cheap (like, less than $20/pair) shoes that completely fall apart and need to be replaced with the same boring black/gray/brown/tan pairs the next year.

Want another confession?  Ok... Up until about two weeks ago, I kind-of thought Clarks were orthopedic shoes for old people.  (What can I say?  My Granny was a big fan.) 

But, times, friend... They are a-changin.

These days (I am approaching 30 you know), I have found that those cheapy shoes with no support and no shelf-life just don't fit my lifestyle anymore.  As a teacher, I'm on my feet A LOT; and, as the mom of a wild two-year old boy, I pretty much need to be ready to break into a full sprint at any second.  Slowly but surely, I've been warming up to the idea of actually investing in QUALITY shoes that will feel good and last a long time...

Of course, I'm not willing to sacrifice style.  (I've got 100 judgmental teenagers looking at me all day, and I'm not going to turn into an old frump.) Thankfully, I was recently re-introduced to the Clarks brand through Zappos and very pleasantly surprised at their super-stylish and practical options that also feel really good. 

 

I admit that when I was first contacted about this review, I was skeptical.  Clarks? Really?  But, when I pulled up the brand on Zappos.com I couldn't believe all the great shoes to choose from - I seriously had a hard time just picking two!  

When it came down to it, I wanted shoes that would be appropriate to wear for both work and play since most of my days involve a good bit of both.  So, ultimately, I went with a classic pair of riding boots (with a tiny little heel to make me feel like a grown-up) and a staple loafer/flat in a great "mushroom" color.

Would you like to see them a la fashion blogger?  Of course you do!  (You know I couldn't resist the opportunity to wear my fake glasses like the pros do too. Ha!)

Ordering on Zappos was a breeze, and the shoes came SO fast (like, two days after I ordered them).  Both pairs fit true to size (I ordered a half a size up in the boots to accommodate my monster-calves jeans, etc.), and are SO comfortable!!

Clarks makes all of their shoes with premium materials, innovative technology, and quality craftsmanship and, trust me, it shows!  Now that I'm used to wearing good shoes, I don't think I can ever go back.  

Here are a couple of my favorites that didn't make the final cut:

(1/2/3/4/5 - See what I mean?!?) 

From trendsetter (yes, they even have booties) to classic, dressy to casual, Clarks really does have a shoe for everyone.  PLUS, when you buy from Zappos.com you also get free shipping and a 365-day return policy.

Still think Clarks are for old people?  See for yourself by visiting the Clarks shop on Zappos.com or call (800) 927-7671. 

And, while you're there, start your wish list because one lucky E, Myself, and I reader will win a $100.00 credit to spend at Zappos!!

To enter the giveaway, just leave a comment telling me What comes first when you're buying shoes? Style or comfort?  (Also, just for fun, I'd love to know which shoes are your favorite from the line!)

Good luck!!

*In case you didn't figure this out already, I got the shoes for free.  BUT, I seriously love them and have already been recommending them to all my friends and family.  I wouldn't mislead you. Promise. 

Sweepstakes Rules:

No duplicate comments.

You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:

Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post

Tweet (public message) about this promotion; including exactly the following unique term in your tweet message: “#SweepstakesEntry”; and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post

Blog about this promotion, including a disclosure that you are receiving a sweepstakes entry in exchange for writing the blog post, and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post

For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winner  will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.

The Official Rules are available here.

This sweepstakes runs from 10/1/13 - 10/31/13.

Be sure to visit the Zappos page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ reviews and find more chances to win!

4 Fall Trends I Love (& One I Just Can't Handle)

Saturday afternoon, after I completely stocked Sam's closet for fall at the children's consignment sale, I had a little "retail" therapy session for myself in the form of online browsing (which is much cheaper than the alternative).  After awhile, I started seeing some major trends in my current style...

JCrew/ LL Bean/ Boden/ Sole Society/ Target/ Loft

Tory Burch (similar)/ JCrew/ Hazel & Olive/ Boden/ Kohls/ JCrew

Have I mentioned that I LOVE fall clothes?  

I just showed Jeff this image and asked what he liked best.  He said, "they all look exactly like everything you have in your closet."  I guess my style is pretty predictable, huh? #heyonlyonethinghasstripes #thatcountsforsomething 

I love that all of these items could double as work or play clothes, which is top-priority in my book.  Plus, I like that they have a touch of the latest trends, without being overly trendy; which, to me, = class and either multiple years of wear and/or good consignment rates later.  Think about it.

Anyway, all that said, there is one very popular trend out there right now that I just CANNOT get into:

BOOTIES.

Source

Maybe if I had long lean legs it would be different; but, honestly, I have never seen someone fully "pull off" this look.  I just don't like it.  *Mark my word... NO booties for E.  (And, feel free to try to prove me wrong by emailing photographic proof to the contrary.)

What fall trends are you loving?  Are there any you refuse to try?

P.S. This post isn't a single bit sponsored, but I do consider it my civic duty to share that the embellished oxford I keep raving about is half price at Kohl's right now (I happen to be a proud new owner myself), the navy and mustard dot top from Loft is 40% off, and the Boden gingham shirt dress is also on sale.

Dresses & Skirts for Summer

It's no secret that I LOVE to shop.  It's also no secret that mama's got some hips and thighs. ;)  As a result of those two facts (and that our summer is JAM PACKED with fun weddings, showers, and a certain blog-conference that I need to look good for), I've spent an unhealthy amount a lot of time lately scouring the internet for dresses and skirts that meet the following criteria:

- Must be adorably cute in a NieNie meets Kendi meets Taza kind-of way.  (Isn't this everyone's top priority?)

- Must be affordable for my no-pay-in-the-summer salary.

- Must make me look & feel like a (hot) mama.  (i.e. You won't find me sporting cleavage or miniskirts any time soon; but, I also don't want to wear a denim jumper.)

Time and time again, I keep ending up at ShabbyApple.com and their amazing new line of vintage clothing.

Here are a few items on my current wishlist:

1. Gondola - Obsessed.

2. Knave of Hearts - I have a bit of a soft spot for navy.  And lace.

3. Marigold Skirt - It doesn't get much better than pink & orange ikat.  Really.

4. Jacob's Pillow - I think this looks so classy and retro, but I'm undecided about peplum.  What do you think?

5. Tuileries - A classic Shabby Apple dress; I've seriously had my eye on this for years.

6. Curiouser and Curiouser - How cool is this?  I'd love it with a simple white t-shirt and a gold statement necklace.  (It's on sale now too!)

All of these beauties are less than 100.00 and perfectly meet my "stylish but modest" guidelines; plus, I love that they aren't the same exact thing everyone else will be able to pick up at the mall. What do you think?  Which one is your favorite?  What's your criteria for summer style?

 *Shabby Apple is giving me a free skirt (#3 actually) for writing this post.  BUT, I really do love all of their clothes and have been a long time fan!!

Natural Make-Up for Freckle Faces

Alternately Titled: My (New & Improved) Make-up Routine

Well, you guys responded so well to yesterday's post about my hair, that I've just decided to become a full time Beauty-Blogger from here on out!!

HA.  Not a fat chance, don't worry!

Really though, I've been wanting to tell you about my amazing sister my new make-up routine thanks to my amazing sister.  Maybe, if you are beauty-product challenged like me and/or have an adult face with both freckles AND wrinkles (which is an awesome combination, really), you will learn something or be introduced to a new product here.  If not, well, hopefully you will tolerate my very long post on something I know very little about. ;)

Anyway, as you probably know, my sister is my beauty coach.  Seriously, she is.  I absolutely DO NOT buy any beauty products without consulting her first, and when she occasionally directs me to a particular product, I get it immediately.  She is a beauty product junkie, but I'm thankful for her addiction because I get lots of hand-me-downs (which is actually kind-of gross when you think about it) and she really does keep me (at least most of the time) in style.

Moving on... You might also remember that one of my 30 Before 30 items was to get a make-over and buy the make-up...WELL, consider it crossed off folks! (Only 24 more things to do in approximately in 11 months.  #Nobigdeal.)

A little background info before I show you my new face make-up...

My makeup routine (up until recently) took all of FIVE minutes (I'm not exaggerating) and involved: loose powder, bronzer (which I used all over my face and on my eyelids), blush, and cheap mascara.  And, although I'm quite proud of how "low maintence" I am, I have to admit that it was usually done sloppily and Jeff often had to "clean me up" in the car on our way out.  So, in an effort to not be a clown-mom that all of Sam's friends make fun of one day, I decided it really was time for a more grown-up face.  (My mom always said she was going to "put on her face" which we thought was hilarious because she clearly had a face without makeup.  Then one day I spent the night with a girlfriend who's mom happened to be a beauty queen and saw her sans makeup the next morning.  It turns out, she really did have to "put on" her face.  Anyway, I digress..)

For the last ten years or so, I've been a loyal Bare Escentuals user, but recently I had heard from several people that powder-based make-up like that actually isn't good for dry skin. (And, let me tell you, my skin is nothing if not DRY.)  I've also been more aware in the last year or so that my skin is beginning to show some age (at one point I thought I might look 8 forever) and I need to treat it well with moisturizer, SPF, and (maybe) washing it before bed.   

Enter Kathryn, Beauty Coach Extraordinaire.

Over Spring Break, when Sam and I visited her in Fredericksburg, Kathryn took me to Ulta and got to work.  I went without a stitch of make-up on and, thanks to the hard work of my sister and one of the "cosmetologists" (is that what you call them?) there, I left feeling like a beauty queen!  Or, at least like a prettier version of myself, which is really what I wanted. ;)


My only requirements were that the new make-up routine look natural, work with my freckles (I decided long ago to stop fighting them), and be relatively easy to put on (Mama needs her sleep in the morning!).

This is what my beauty coach came up with:

1. The Radiance Renewer Cleansing Gellee by Garnier (what is a Gellee?)
2. Laura Geller Spackle under make-up primer (I have it in Champagne)
3. Benefit Oxygen Hello Flawless liquid foundation (I have it in Ivory)
4. Benefit CORALista blush
5. Naked Basics palette by Urban Decay
6. NYX Slim Eye Pencil in Cafe
7. Stila Forever Your Curl Mascara (black - always, according to K)
8. NYX Born to Glow liquid illuminator
9. NYX Dewy Finish make-up setting spray
10. Garnier Soothing Remover Cleansing Towelettes (to use real quickly before bed)

A little (very awkward) Before/After action:

#Ipromisethereismoredifferenceinreallife #Samcouldnotcareless #supermodelpose #awkwardselfie

 And, finally... A few lessons I learned from my coach:

- Some items (like primer, foundation, and blush) are worth splurging on, while others (eyeliner, glimmer cream, etc.) are just fine in the cheapy drug-store variety.

- It is fine to mix and match brands of make-up.  Benefit is known for their skin/coverage products; while Stila has a great reputation for eyes.

- Liquid foundation really does make a difference in terms of how smooth and even your skin looks.  Also, a lot of progress has been made on this front since the last time I tried it out (which was approximately 1999 - no exaggeration) - it is light and natural looking.

- Applying liquid foundation with a brush (I use the same one I had from my Bare Minerals) is easy and gives an "airbrushed" look - which I guess is good

- Bronzer every day is not natural, neither is too much blush; a little bit of each goes a long way.

- For a natural looking eye, use a light color for all-over, highlight with one shade darker in the outer-corner crease, and use LIGHT eyeliner

In conclusion, I have been using my new products for about two weeks now.  I really like all of them, but especially the foundation, the blush, and the eyeliner.  Overall, it doesn't take that much longer than my old routine, and the make-up does seem to last a little bit longer on my face.  Also, I've gotten several compliments (mostly from my parents and Jeff), so it must be working out alright. :)

Ok... that is absolutely all I have on this subject. Thanks for sticking with me!

P.S. If you are in the Fredericksburg area, Kathryn offers beauty consultations for a small fee. (Kidding! Unless you really are in the area and want her to, then I'm not really kidding.)

How to Use Hot Rollers

I straighten my hair every single morning (or at least six out of seven days - on the other day, I look like a squirrel).  It has taken me approximately ten years to master this, and I'm still working on blow-drying while holding a round brush... Baby steps.

In the meantime, the trend seems to be shifting back (go figure) towards fuller hair with big, loose curls these days. Think: Hollywood Glam; Country Music Awards; Disney Princesses.

While I have several friends with curly hair worth coveting, I've never actually met anyone with natural "big, loose, curls."  Enter: hot rollers.

My sister in law rolls her hair all the time, and my my mom & sis pull it off quite regularly.  I love the look - I think it is classy and romantic without being too "overdone." Something about a woman with a head full of rollers seems very "sophisticated" and "grown-up" to me - like something every girl should definitely know how to do by the time they are, say, 30.

But, as usual, I'm a bit behind on the curve... I struggle with rollers and seem to always end up with straight ends and burned fingers  (not to mention a bad mood).

It turned out OK here, but still not great; and, it was a lot of work.  I am lazy.

Can you relate?  (Please tell me I'm not alone!)  If so, you will probably enjoy this great tutorial video from Olay on "How to Use Hot Rollers." (And, if not, you should still watch to find out details about winning $$$ anyway*.)

Take a look:

Seems easy enough, right?  Perhaps I will give it another go this weekend...

Do you roll your hair?  Straighten?  What is your go-to do?

*Details on sweepstakes here and official rules here.
** I am receiving compensation for this post, but all opinions are exclusively mine. FYI.

Fashion Dos & Don'ts from the Inauguration and The Bachelor

One can only handle so much exciting television in one day...

So, since it may have been just too much for you to take in, I thought I'd wrap-up a few fashion Dos & Don'ts learned from the Presidential Inauguration and The Bachelor yesterday.  Ha! Enjoy!

Source

DO wear purple
DO invest in a tailored coat

Source

DON'T wear a mini dress when standing in a "kissing" position for extended time in front of an audience (no matter how cute it is)

Source

DO mix different shades of the same color
DO coordinate with family/ people you will be photographed with - but not too much.

Source

DO add small pops of color with gloves, tights, etc. (even in "professional" settings) 
DO cut bangs to look younger and hipper

Source

DO take risks with mixing prints and fabrics, knotting your belt, and adding patterned tights
DO accessorize classic in black and white with a fun accessory

Source

DON'T wear neon mesh dresses.
DON'T wear tight jean shorts rolled or cut-off with the pockets showing (really, just don't wear jean shorts)

Source

DO dress appropriately for the occasion
DO add a simple cardigan

Source

DON'T wear six-inch heels to an amusement park

DO wear bright colors in simple styles
DO choose clothing that accentuates your best features (like Michelle's arms - duh!)

Source

DON'T wear neoprene scuba-suits as dresses.  (Sorry Kacie, but I'm not sure what happened to you this season.  Not. cute.  Were y'all surprised to see her go so soon?)


Haha!  This was fun.  What would you add?  To watch you both?

And, just so you know... 
Political viewpoints aside, I have the utmost respect for our President and the historical significance of this day.  I am proud to be an American and will be supporting and praying for the Obamas for the next four years.  I cannot say the same for The Bachelor. ;)

Thanksgiving Outfit

And now, for a complete fluff post to follow yesterday's deep thoughts...

This was my conversation with my sister on my way to school this morning: (at stop lights, of course)

Hilarious, right?  And, she proceeded to tell me what she is wearing and that wearing jeans at Thanksgiving is "suicide."  Duh!

Side note: As much as I LOVE being a boy mom, I still think a lot about how special the relationship between sisters is - even with silly moments like this - and REALLY hope I have two girls some time in life.  Don't tell Jeff. ;)

Anyways, I've reached the stage of stress and disorganization this week that prompts me to forget all things important and focus on very unimportant things - like what I'm going to wear for Thanksgiving lunch next week.  Don't tell me I'm the only one who does this.

On the off chance that you need something totally superficial to think about for a few minutes today, here's what I'm wanting to wear:

What do you think?  Be honest.

I'm borrowing the leopard print scarf from Kathryn; and, don't worry, the red pants I'm planning to wear aren't actually jeans - they are much more comfy!  The main issue right now is that I don't have a striped shirt like that (I have ten striped shirts - it's a problem really, but none that I think go with 'this' look. Ha!), and I exhausted my "November discretionary budget" on about November 3rd.  It's a hard life I live!

I guess I'll let you know if the outfit is pulled off in about a week.  (Let's be honest, I'll probably wear my maternity jeans.  Ha!  If only they didn't rip down the middle from overuse.)

In the meantime, what are you planning to wear for your Thanksgiving meal?  Come on, don't be shy! 

Fall Uniform

I've been dressing like a "mom" since I was about 15, so I'm kind-of loving this "fashion season" of my life where that style is actually age-appropriate. :)  Also, with working only in the mornings, I'm finding that to get the best "bang for my buck" I like simple, but put-together, outfits for work that can easily be transformed for an afternoon of errand-running or park-playing.

With that in mind, I've noticed some trends in my wardrobe recently, - mostly involving colored corduroys (not jeans, but just as comfy) and fun accessories that can easily be taken off for afternoons with my boy - so I thought I'd share my fall-themed teacher/mom "uniform" and show-off my new found love for Polyvore.

I tried to choose clothes very similar to ones I actually own from places where I actually shop (usually the sales); but, they are not exactly as you'd find them in my closet.  (Also, none of these stores gave me ANYTHING to to talk about them.) FYI.

Fall Work "Uniform" by emyselfandi featuring slim fit shirts

J Crew slim fit shirt
jcrew.com

J Crew j crew
jcrew.com

Flat shoes
target.com

Bubble statement necklace
etsy.com

Fall Work "Uniform" by emyselfandi featuring leopard print shoes

J Crew j crew
jcrew.com

Low rise corduroy pants
target.com

Leopard print shoes
target.com

Layered chain necklace
etsy.com

What looks do you find yourself repeating these days? Where is your favorite place to shop for versatile (and affordable) fall clothes?

**See you later today for another lesson in motherhood. I just thought you might need a break. :)