I was a teenage sun goddess. The lengths to which I’d go to catch a few rays were legendary– skipping school to lay out on metal bleachers in the football stadium in my bra and panties comes to mind. I think my goth years, during which I cultivated a healthy “pale,” might have saved me from even worse damage, but honestly, my sun abuse took its toll: dark spots, uneven skin tone, freckles. I wish I could go back in time and slap some sunscreen on my perfect young skin, but the damage is done and there’s no going back.
Or so I thought until I got to test a bag full of potential miracles: samples of the Sonya Dakar Ultraluxe Age-Control line. According to their literature, Sonya Dakar Skin Care believes that caring for your skin requires hard work and commitment. The SD line includes over 60 products created from a combination of botanical and scientifically-created ingredients. I was especially excited to try these products because a wht review of her Drying Potion, got a perfect 5 star rating.
I got to try sample sizes of the following Ultraluxe products…
“It is not true that we have only one life to live; if we can read, we can live as many more lives and as many kinds of lives as we wish.“ S.I. Hayakawa
I’m a voracious reader. Always have been. I was the child who had a book in her hand constantly; reading while walking and running into things. But books, even used, can get expensive. And I need that money to buy beauty products! Libraries are amazing but I can be a bit rough on books. (What? Not everyone reads Susan Wiggs while painting their nails or holding a mixer in a bowl full of brownies?)
So, if you’re like me, PaperBackSwap.com (PBS) is a great option. PBS allows you to get books for the cost of shipping, usually less than $3. And it’s super easy, which makes my lazy, cheap bibliophilic heart sing with joy!
Yours too? Okay, here’s the low-down: first you sign up with PaperBackSwap and then list 10 books that you have at home. Not just fiction or paperbacks; that Cooking for Dummies book that your husband got you and started that week-long fight? Or the 7 books on Chaucer that you had to buy for that Lit class you dropped and couldn’t sell back? Your ex’s self-help audio books? Put those on there too! These books will count as part your “Bookshelf” and you also get 2 free credits (1 credit = 1 book) to use immediately just for signing up.
When Maureen Kelly founder of tarte cosmetics started her business and cosmetic line (from her tiny apartment) in 1999 she was doing all of us a favor! Producing a line not only created with the best ingredients, but also packaged in total finery. Seriously, think about Lights, Camera, Lashes!mascara or their trademark pseudo snakeskin; what could be better! The wht review team seems to agree tarte is a top quality, colorful line as evidenced by our past reviews of the eyeQuatic Summer Essentials Set and the Holiday 2009 Collection.
But it’s not all striking packages and shimmery makeup at tarte; did you know that tarte is also an eco-conscious company worthy of a Green Monday review? Maureen launched tarte when she “became frustrated when (she) couldn’t find healthy, nourishing cosmetics. Everything…was full of unhealthy, synthetic formulas.” To make matters worse, when Maureen located a green makeup line, the packaging was so blah, she didn’t want to buy it, “let alone take it out of my purse in public!”
You will have no such problems with any offering from tarte. All products are not only “98% free of parabens, petro-chemicals, phthalates, sulfates and synthetic fragrances,” they are packaged in chic, runway-inspired cases and compacts. To make things even better, the packaging components are made from recyclable or post-consumer recycled material and can often be re-used to help reduce environmental waste.
That reality is what made trying tarte’s Smooth Operator tinted moisturizer even more exciting for me. It is a subtly tinted moisturizer that packs a whopping spf 20 to protect your skin and is free of parabens, mineral oil, petrolatum, and other yucky stuff. Instead this fabulous tinted moisturizer contains chamomile extract (a wonder for facial skin with its anti-inflammatory effects), vitamins A, C, and E (to protect from free radicals while reducing signs of aging) as well as orange, lemon, Ginseng root…. are you getting all of this? Suffice to say, your skin will thank you for using this makeup.
I’m about to embark upon a weekend of debauchery, as we’ve got a we heart this party this weekend. So I thought before I delve into overindulging, I’d start it with a big dose of goodness.
Our Photo of the Week comes from a charity close to my heart Bad Rap, the Bay Area Pit Bull group that’s dedicated to educating people about this highly misunderstood and wonderful breed. Bad Rap (along with others) worked tirelessly to give the 49 dogs rescued from Michael Vick’s compound a chance at a happy life. It was a long road, but one look at this photo shows just how possible it was, and they never lost sight of that. Read more about their journey here and the incredible work they do for all Pit Bulls..
Here are a few more charities that have caught my eye recently…
Beauty Bus is a Los Angeles based organization that provides in-home beauty treatments, free of charge, to home-bound, terminally or chronically ill patients and their primary caregivers. Founded by two sisters who lost their 28 year old cousin to a degenerative neuromuscular disease, they saw that her beauty treatments were among the few things that gave her joy during her struggle. You can donate or volunteer and feel your own joy knowing that you are helping people to maintain dignity and give them respite during a difficult time.
Another charity that recently came to my attention is Small Can Be Big. Besides having a beautifully designed website, I love the concept. You directly choose who you’d like to help from a small, carefully-selected group of families and individuals that they spotlight who need assistance. These are people in circumstances where a one-time monetary donation can be pivotal (everything from pending eviction to escaping domestic violence). You can read their stories, they tell you exactly what they need to raise and track the process. Plus 100% of your donation goes directly to them. The site highlights approximately 10 families a month. There’s something nice about knowing exactly who you’re helping. And on that note…
Wht member Heather could use a bit of help as well. She’s a graduate student with a number of medical issues who is trying to get a seizure-response service dog through Power Paws Assistance of Arizona. She started Heather’s Miracle Dog, a line of handmade cards she’s selling to help raise the $5000 fee for what could be a lifesaving companion. Buy a crafty card, help a wht girl in need. Gotta love that!
And because I too am a do-gooder, I give you this. You’re welcome.
Cocktail of the Month Flashback: Pour the Perfect Half & Half
It’s the start of the weekend, and not just any weekend – with St. Patrick’s Day landing on a Wednesday this year, it’s the first of two weekends fit to celebrate all things Irish. If you are ready to raise a glass, you can’t do better than our Cocktail of the Month from October, the Black & Tan. Or, as it’s known in Ireland, the Half & Half.
Check the comments of the original post for a bit of Irish history, then pull out the Guinness, some Harp, frozen glasses and a spoon and get started! With our “secret” spoon hint, you will have the Luck of the Irish on your side as you masterly pour these striking cocktails. Cheers!
All this talk about Corned Beef and Bread Pudding has got me in the St. Patrick’s Day mood. And where’s the best place to go to further the excitement with some crafty and affordable buys? I think you know the answer. So, join me in this Ode to the Irish, Etsy style!
How better to recognize a patron saint than with lots and lots of beer? Especially if it’s in these dignified Mustache Pilsner glasses. Sold in a set of 4, the artist can even monogram them for you. And the glasses hold a whopping 19 oz, so you’ll be well prepared to really honor St. Patrick! $40
Speaking of honoring, I’d like to add this Shamrock Hot Fudge BrownieCake into my feast! This is a dark chocolate brownie, made in a giant 8 oz cupcake mold, then topped with a layer of hot fudge, swirls of vanilla buttercream frosting and sprinkled with green Shamrock candy sprinkles. Check out their other flavors too, like Peanut Butter Cheesecake and Grasshopper Creme de Menthe. Erin go Yum! $5
As a kid, I used to spend hours laying in the grass looking for four-leaf clovers. These days, who has the time to dreamily laze about on the lawn? This Four leaf clover necklace will assure you’ll have some luck and look rather good at the same time. $25
I don’t have any kids, but am considering it specifically so that I can dress them up in holiday themed costumes! (My dogs would be very happy to have someone to share the duties with.) And they don’t get much cuter than a lil’ leprechaun. This Luck of the Irish Hat and bowtie can be ordered in any size from newborn to 5T, to assure many years of photo opportunities. $38
With St. Paddy’s Day just around the corner, I’d like to share with you how I celebrate the day; with a meal that is truly a feast!
This recipe has been in my family for 18 years and came to be through from my Irish Father. Way back then, he referred me to his friend and the owner of Cryan’s Beef and Ale located in South Orange NJ. I gathered the nerve to call him at the restaurant (this was before the days of internet) and since my Dad practically used to live there, he happily shared it with me.
I recommend getting a jump start top of the morning. It is super easy but will take several hours to simmer this to perfection. That is the key word, simmer. It is vital to sustain a slow simmer after you bring it to it’s first hard boil. Trust me, it will be incredibly delicious and will practically melt in your mouth.
For sandwiches that are just as good as the main meal, be sure to have a loaf of Rye bread, some quality stone ground mustard, horseradish and mayonnaise. (I love a good Reuben, so I’m going to add to that list sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and Russian dressing ~Stef)
For dessert, make sure to check out the Irish Bread pudding recipe (you won’t be sorry!)
Corned Beef and Cabbage recipe
Ingredients:
2-3 pounds (flat cut) corned beef brisket with spice packet
1 bay leaf
2 to 3 rutabagas, cut in chunks
1 pound carrots, or about 8 to 10, trimmed, and left whole
10-15 small red potatoes
8 small whole onions, peeled
1-2 large head cabbage, cut into wedges
Directions:
1. Place corned beef in large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Add the spice packet that came with the corned beef and 1 bay leaf and onions. Cover pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Skim off foam. Simmer on low approximately 50 minutes per pound or until fork tender.
2. Add whole potatoes, rutabagas and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are almost tender. Add cabbage and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove meat and let rest 15 minutes.
3. Place vegetables in a bowl and cover. Add as much broth (cooking liquid reserved in the Dutch oven or large pot) as you want. Slice meat across the grain. Serve corned beef surrounded with vegetables.
Now, I’m inclined to believe that the tendency and passion for bargain-hunting is genetic. Here’s why: As young girl, I always had a love for shopping. For new clothes, shoes, makeup and such. (Hence my rabid amour for we heart this!) But I never really understood that prices are but merely a suggestion. Why my mother should think things were too expensive was beyond me – the price was the price – and if you wanted something that’s what you had to pay, right? Well eventually my bargain-hunting genes blossomed and I daresay I am a better one today than my mother ever was! However, I believe the skill can be taught – we can all train ourselves to search for the best price out there. So I want to share with you some of my favorite tricks for finding good deals.
My basic, big-three tips for the bargain hunter are as follows:
• Research, research, research.
You have to know what makes a bargain and what does not! True story: two days ago I was in TJ Maxx for some payday fun. I was poring through the clearance racks (you can find some real gems there). They had a whole bunch of designer jeans in the clearance rack (think J. Brand, Joe’s Jeans, Rock & Republic), all priced between $50-$70. Two women nearby were exclaiming how $60 for a pair of jeans was ludicrous! I wanted to yell, “But $60 for a pair of jeans that would cost you $174 at Nordstrom IS a bargain!”
These shoppers didn’t care or know the difference; which is what I urge of you! Be aware of the good quality, big name brands and the latest trends to watch for in the racks. And know that a great name (or the latest cuts/styles/colors) doesn’t always work on everybody. However, if you know which line of jeans makes your butt look like a million bucks, then you know when to grab a great priced pair of demin. Same goes for well made, timeless pieces (even out of season) in hues that always flatter you; get it while you can, you will wear it later. As for seasonal trends, just be aware of their limited time appeal and budget accordingly (meaning the trendier pieces should be the smallest portion of your shopping budget).
Also, buy off season. Have your heart set on a collection of Christmas decorations or table setting? There are some unique finds to be had in January and February! Same idea if your looking for a cashmere sweater (buy in late spring) or patio furniture (early fall) – snap up big savings by buying just when the item goes out of season – stores need to clear their shelves for new arrivals and you will pocket the savings!
There is just something about the sea—its healing powers are mythological; its calming effect on the psyche is profound. The sea refreshes, rejuvenates and transforms. Happiness assaults the senses with the first breath of clean, salty ocean air. A swim in its waters can refresh the body and the mind. The sound of its waves lapping the shore can lull a full-grown man to sleep like a lullaby to a baby. Yes, the sea is a perfect place.
And, of all the seas, the Dead Sea is known as the most transformative and perfect of all. The unique chemical composition and greater concentration of minerals has been known for it’s curative abilities since ancient times. It’s not a stretch, then, to think that skincare products of the sea, particularly the Dead Sea, should have this same perfection, this same ability to refresh, rejuvenate and transform. Many Dead Sea products try to capture this perfection, and one does it exceptionally well. Erno Laszlo’s Sea-Mud Soap really harnesses Poseidon’s potential.
Erno Laszlo himself was a dermatological visionary with a colorful history. Way back in 1927 in his native Hungary, Laszlo caused a commotion by introducing a skincare ritual involving splashing with soap and water instead of the here-to-then accepted use of cold cream to cleanse the skin. It was practically scandalous, but he healed the skin of Belgium’s Princess Stephanie and opened his first Institute of Scientific Cosmetology. Later, a move to the U.S. had Dr. Laszlo an early Hollywood hero with clients from Greta Garbo to—years later—Marilyn Monroe. He soon opened a U.S. Institute on Fifth Avenue in New York City with an elite, referral-only clientele including Jackie Kennedy. It wasn’t until 1962 that the famous Dr. Laszlo had a retail line.
Erno Laszlo created a “ritual” which begins with a water wash technique where splashing the face with “comfortably-hot” water is meant to deep cleanse, exfoliate, flush out toxins, strengthen and soften the skin, stimulate production of collagen, and allow for the better absorption of a moisturizer. It is with this ritual that I first used my Sea Mud Soap.
At some point, everyone has imagined themselves as a rock star; jumping on the bed and belting songs into a hairbrush, playing to thousands of adoring fans (or was that just me?) Maybe fantasizing the fabulous parties, amazing clothes and your own personal beauty stylist? While we may not have become the next Joan Jett, we can at least feel like an edgy glam-rocker or a ferocious sexpot with Armour Beauty lip gloss.
Armour Beauty is the brilliant creation of model/former Lunachicks front woman, Theo Kogan and makeup artist/handbag designer, Allison Burns. For the moment, they concentrate on bringing you the best glosses possible (the only product in their line), with shades available in both opaque and shimmer glosses. Armour Beauty is the brand that out rocks other glosses on the market. Inspired by rock and roll days gone by, the designers cleverly paid homage to some of their favorite songs, night clubs and female legends by giving their various shades names like Barracuda and Cat Club.
As a major Debbie Harry fan, I was thrilled to receive my sleek lucite tube of Dreaming, a sparkling, supple shade of rosy mauve from the shimmer collection and named for the Blondie song. Paraben free and with no animal testing ever, these glosses contain Vitamin E, grape seed and avocado oils, as well as mango and shea butters. Meaning your lips will look great, smell warm and slightly fruity and feel deliciously moisturized and kissable, while you’ll feel guilt free!
I was a teenage sun goddess. The lengths to which I’d go to catch a few rays were legendary– skipping school to lay out on metal bleachers in the football stadium in my bra and panties comes to mind. I think my goth years, during which I cultivated a healthy “pale,” might have saved me from even worse damage, but honestly, my sun abuse took its toll: dark spots, uneven skin tone, freckles. I wish I could go back in time and slap some sunscreen on my perfect young skin, but the damage is done and there’s no going back.
