Prime Time

Do I have a wonderful product for you!!! I have been using Smashbox Photo Finish, Foundation Primer, for a few years now, and it is an amazing product. This primer makes your makeup go on so smooth and look flawless.

On the Smashbox site, www.smashbox.com, they say it like this:

Create a perfect canvas for foundation application with this silky, lightweight blend of vitamins A & E, grape seed extract and green tea. Worn alone or under foundation to increase its longevity, our best-selling primer helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores for flawless skin with a velvety-smooth finish. In a new square airless pump for freshness to the last drop.

Sephora's site, www.sephora.com said it like this:

Photo Finish Foundation Primer, What it is:

Smashbox makeup artists use this product to create a perfect canvas for foundation application.

What it is formulated to do:

The silky blend of vitamins and antioxidants smoothes and perfects skin, while the unique formula helps to inhibit the destruction of collagen, and fills in fine lines and pores for a flawless finish.

What else you need to know:

Use after moisturizer and before foundation for complexion perfection. This skin-soothing blend of antioxidants, which can be worn alone or under foundation, works overtime to fill in fine lines and even out skin texture.

It is a little pricey, so I recommend getting the travel size which is 0.5 oz. and runs $16 to $17.00 Then when you fall in love with this product, you can go for the 1 oz. bottle, and it runs $36 to $42.00. It also comes in different shades that have different benefits, so you can find the one most custom to your needs. Smashbox is one of my favorite cosmetic lines, they really have so many fabulous products, and I am shocked I have not covered any of them till now!!! For more back story and all things Smashbox check out www.smashbox.com

XX~Ash

Holy Crap!

Ladies, have you heard of this wonderful product called Poo-Pourri? Well if not, let me be the first to fill you in. First, let me say that this is not a subject that I like to talk about and if you know me, you are probably shocked at this post - LOL!!! Poo-Pourri is a liquid that you spray in the potty BEFORE you go #2, and it hides the oder so you can walk away from the bathroom with no shame:) P00-Pourri says it like this: "Spritz the bowl before you go and no one else will ever know"...kind of cute hu? It is not a room freshener and does not have a strong scent. I don't pretend to know how it work, but I just know that it does. My girlfriend Julie told me about this fabulous stuff and takes hers everywhere she goes. Julie even took it on a girls trip we had together, and she made sure to tell us,"please be discreet and use the Poo-Pourri if you are going to go the dreaded #2." Thanks Julie!!! I found my little bottle of Poo-Pourri at a boutique in Colleyville, Texas called the Pink Hanger. It's only 2 fl.oz., and the cost was $9.95 and worth every penny!!! I know you can find this stuff in many places, but if you can't find it at a store or boutique near you check out, www.poopourri.com or call this Dallas number (972)818-8200. I love this stuff so much that I am thinking of getting one for all my bathrooms and one to travel with...YEP, I like it that much:) Now, if we could only make every man carry a bottle of Poo-Pourri with him at all times, the world would be a fresher place!

Here's to being discreet!!!

XX~Ash

Paper Dolls with Polyvore

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A friend of mine (Stephanie E.) recently turned me on to this wonderful website, www.polyvore.com. I could be on this site for hours on end, playing with different outfits and style ideas. The only thing that I know to compare it to is playing with paper dolls when you were a little girl. Not only can you put outfits together from head to toe, but you can find out where to buy these amazing fashions!!! Now go play and have some fun with fashion!!!

XX~Ash

Lash Masquerade

When I go to the Drug store, I am always on the hunt for a new and fabulous mascara, and it seems that all you ladies are too. I have always been a fan of most Mabelline Mascaras and Great Lash (Very Black) with the curved brush is at the top of that list, and I recommend it to anyone. The only problem I have with Great Lash is at the end of the day it is hard to get it all off.

TIP: if you have problems getting your mascara off after you have washed your face, put a little face lotion on a Q-Tip and rub it back and forth under your eyes right up into your lash line. It is great for getting every last bit of mascara off your eyes.

Another mascara that I am a HUGE fan of right now is Loreal, Bare Naturale (pictured above). I got my mom and a few friends hooked on this wonderful little mascara, and they all have had great results! First off, it is good for sensitive eyes or people with allergies. I like to call it my everyday mascara because it goes on thick but feels light and makes your lashes look long and thick. Also, it’s easy to remove at the end of the day and even better than that it’s cheep and you can get it all over the place. Those were my low end finds, but if you like to get your mascara at a department store, my two favorites are Lancome, Definicls and Chanel, Inimitable Multi-Dimensionnel

(Amy W., that one is all your fault, thanks a lot!) Both of these mascaras go on smooth, with no clumps, and make your lashes look long and perfectly separated.

I took a very informal survey via Facebook and e-mail of what mascaras you ladies love and why, and here are your results:

Christian Dior, Diorshow. It is the best for making my lashes so full and plump!

Lancome, Definicils..I love it. It goes on thin, not clumpy.

Loreal, HIP. It is like Lancome Definicils but half the price!

Loreal, Original Voluminous mascara in blackest black. No clumps and a couple of swipes makes my lashes pop. They look full and long. Easy wash off and best of all, no department store price.

Loreal, Original Voluminous Waterproof. For those of you who have oily skin and have problems with “raccoon eyes” or flaking, this one is for you.

Mabelline, Great Lash because it's cheap and magazines always say it is the best, but I haven't found one that I really love.

Maybelline, Lash Blast Hydrofuge....black, very black!!!

Bourjois, Volume Glamour Mascara.....The BEST! :)

Covergirl, Color Blast Hydrofuge

Clinique, High Impact mascara. No clumping, goes on thick the first coat, and doesn't smudge. It's great!

Almay mascara, for those who are allergic to most other mascaras.

I was so surprised to see that everyone has a different favorite. I was sure it would come down to a few that everyone liked...boy was I wrong, lol!!! Thanks to all you ladies who gave me your input, and I look forward to trying every one of your favorites:) If you did not get a chance to put your two cents in, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Here are a few mascara basics:

1. Wiggle the mascara wand when applying to separate and get a clean even coat - it also prevents clumps. Hints why they are doing the vibrating wands now.

2. If you like a bit more drama and are a 2 coat kind of gal, make sure you put that second coat on before the first one dries because this prevents that dreaded spider eye look or the Tammy Faye Baker look, YUCK!

3. If you don’t want a second coat but do like a bit more drama, BLINK the tips of your lashes onto the wand a few times, but do it before the first coat dries.

4. Last and most important, don’t hang on to your beloved mascara for more than a few months. Mascara can harbor bacteria, causing major problems for your eyes and delicate skin around your eyes.

XX~Ash

Huggable

2 words Huggable Hangers!!!  If you don't have these amazing little hangers, run out and get some...you will thank me later!  The other day I got 3 boxes full of these little jewels from Michelle in the mail for an early birthday surprise.  Needless to say my evening was full of transforming my closet from old plastic hangers to my new beautiful pink Huggable Hangers! These hangers are special because they are covered in a soft velvety fabric that will keep your clothes from slipping.  They are also very compact, which helps double, even triple your closet spaces, what girl would not love that?  If that is not enough, they are also curved just so to prevent your clothes from being deformed...you know, the dreaded "titty sholders."   They come in great colors and also kid size too(:  I have found them on several occasions on sale at Target for $2.50 for 5 hangers, regular price is about $5.00.  I know Michelle finds them on HSN, and they came 18 (assorted: 9 pant & 9 shirt) to a box.  I'm not sure on the price.  I am sure of this, you will never look at hangers the same way.  I said bye bye to my tacky plastic hangers!!!

XX-Ash

Make it Quick!

If you are like me, you are always needing a quick manicure and pedicure but just can't find the time.  Well, do I have a few great products to make those quick manicures and pedicures easier for all us busy ladies!  First off - if you have not tried the Sally Hansen: Color Quick Fast Dry Nail Color Pens, they are awesome! You can get these all over the place: ULTA, Walgreens, Walmart, etc...and they run about $6.00.  This pen has a small built in brush that dispenses little bits of nail polish, which you control with a pump.  I like to do two coats for even color, but to each their own.  When I am finished, I like to clean off the brush with a paper towel so it does not get sticky and gooey and is ready for the next time I am on the go.  Also, I know that O.P.I. does a product just like this, and my friend Melissa says they are just as fabulous.  It's just such a great concept - some very smart and busy women must have come up with this product.  Yeah, Girl Power!!!

Another product you will need for your quick mani and pedi is the Cutex: Manicure Correction Pen.  Again, you can get these all over the place and they run about $3.00.  It's like a marker filled with nail polish remover to help you correct any boo boos that you may have made while applying your nail color.  This pen will make even the messiest of nail painters look like pros in the end(:

These products are small and easy to travel with for fast touch ups.  I am love, love, loving these two products!!!  Now go get fabulous(:

XX-Ash

Fake it!

It's that time of year ladies where the melanin challenged like myself need to get our fake tan on. Now, I have tried spray tanning, and it just wasn't for me.  For the money & time, I have found that I like my tan out of a bottle.  Last year I tried a few tanning lotions that were ok but I eather did not like the smell or the color.  Let's face it, if you are running around looking orange or smelling like a hot mess, your ass might as well stay white!  I happened to see Heidi Klum talking about how she uses Victoria Secret's Bare Bronze, and I thought if it's good enough for her then it's good enough for me, so I ran out and bought a tube...because I believe everything that Goddess says(:  The color is great, and it leaves a bronzy shimmer on your skin when it dries.  I also like the fact that you can either layer it if you're in desperate need of a tan, you can do it once a week, or every other day for a a good consistant tan.  The smell is suttle enough that it didn't bother me, and I'm big on smells.  The price point is $18.00 for a 5 FL OZ bottle, which is middle of the line.

For those of you that are rookies to the fake tan world, here are a few tricks to make your tan look good and last. #1 You have GOT to exfoliate in the shower or bath to remove any dry skin. When your skin is dry, the tan sticks to that dry skin - that's why people look splotchity and a mess. In the photo, you will notice a small textured cloth.  My mom turned me onto this wonderful little wash cloth from The Bath Source...it's called the Clean Wave Cloth, and you can get it at Walmart.  The reason I love this cloth is because it gives you an even and smooth exfoliation, and also it's cheep and easy to travel with.  #2 When you get out of the bath or shower, blot your skin dry, while your skin is still a bit damp put a little lotion on your knees, elbows, hands, and feet...rubbing it in well.  #3 Now get your tan on...don't just slap it on, but take your time and work the tan lotion in, evenly all over. #4 Give it some time to dry before you throw your clothes on and BAM!! - you're fierce, fabulous, and tan. #5  Wash your hands really well, or they will be darker than the rest of your body. #6 Oh, also use a mild soap the next time you are in the bath or shower...it also helps the tan last a little longer.  Personally, I like to use a mild Dove soap or Aveno.

Happy Fake Tanning Ladies,

XX-Ash

Get Fresh

I was so excited to find a little fabulous find at Walgreens yesterday!  I was looking for teeth whitening products and ran right into this little guy, the Colgate Wisp.  The Wisp is a tiny single use tooth brush that you can throw in any bag to freshen up anywhere.  The mini brush has a little bead of breath freshening gel that bursts as you brush.  Also, there is no water or rinsing necessary. There are 4 in each pack and they come in several flavors. I am already a fan and will always have these little jewels in my bag.
XX-Ash

Just Curious

I am so curious if any of you have tried Glowelle Beauty Drink, if so do tell?!?!? 

Truth or Bust

Ok GIRLS, I have to confess that I am one of those people who watch infomercials and think, “Oh my gosh, I have to try that!”  I also love the isle in Walgreens that is dedicated to As Seen On TV products. Yes, I know what you're thinking...wow, she needs a life.  Well think of it like this, I am going to save you some time and money.  Most products turn out to be a bust, but I have two great products for you and one that's a true BUST!  

I will start with the BUST...Smooth Away.  Well, I did everything that the instructions said and did everything they showed on the infomercials (arms, legs, face, and even my poor husband), and I am here to tell you this product could not smooth away hair on a babies butt!!!  You know there is a problem when in the packaging there is a warning - CAUTION: If product is not used as instructed, it could result in damage to the skin.  REALLY, damage to the skin...WHAT!?!?  I do have to say I tried it on my face first...it did not remove the hair, but I felt like I had a good round of microderm abrasion.  Who am I kidding - it felt like I had wind burn.  I could go on and on about this piece of crap, but I think I will move on.

The next product is Strap Perfect...IT WORKS!!! (TRUTH) It comes with 3 black, 3 nude, & 3 clear.  It is great, and now we don’t have to run around looking like Britney Spears.

The last product I have to tell you about is EarLift Invisible Ear Lobe Support Tape. (TRUTH)  I love this product!!!  I have one ear lobe that is torn a little, and I could not wear certain earrings until I found this product.  You don’t have to have a stretched or torn ear lobe to use this product.  Sometimes, I use it if I am wearing a heavy pair of earrings just for extra support.  It is a small clear oval shaped medical grade tape that adheres to the back of your ear lobe and will stay until you take it off.  Again, I love this product and I think you will too(:  Happy shopping...you know you're going to go check out the isle at Walgreens...lol!!!

XX-Ash

Bath Time With Burt

If you love a good bath, then this one is for you!  My Dad's wife, Michelle, turned me on to this fabulous product. I love most of Burt's Bees products, but this is one of my favorites.  These bath salts are just what they say they are - therapeutic. They're great for aches and pains or if you just need to relax. The only thing I can compare it to is taking a bath in Epsom Salt but with a clean, relaxing, and calming smell - a mixture of Rosemary & Lemon. (It smells very strong in the can but not in the bath.) 

I got this can at one of my favorite places, Target, but I am sure you can get it anywhere Burt's Bees products are sold. Oh, also make sure you have a paint can opener or a flat head screw driver to open the can.  It's hard to get in to but well worth it once you do.  Enjoy!!! XX-Ash

Lets Talk Hanky Panky

Get your minds out of the gutter! I am sure I am just preaching to the choir, but this post is all about the fabulous panties called Hanky Panky. My friend, Katina, gave me a pair about five years ago, and now that's all I will wear - yes, they are that good. Now, my girlfriends and I exchange these panties for birthdays, Christmas, etc. I remember my friend, Constance, sent me a small box full of Hanky Pankys one time, and you would have thought she sent me a diamond - Blade (my husband) saw my excitement and caught on very quickly...lol! I know that they look just like any old pair of lacy panties, but looks can be deceiving - they are very comfortable. You can get them in regular or thong, but you want them in a thong - trust me, you do. If you don't wear a thong, now is the time to start. Also, they come in low rise or original rise, and I have some of both. I think the secret to these panties is their fabric, the way they lay flat to your body, and how they look under clothes. I should also mention they are one size fits all...they have a ton of give so don't worry. They are on the pricy side - about $12.00 a pair, but you can find them on sale all the time...that's what I always do. You can get them at Nordstroms, Nordstroms Rack (on sale), Neiman Marcus, Neiman Marcus Last Call (on sale), Saks, Off Saks (on sale), and many many more - you get the idea. Also, depending on where you live, you can get them at certain boutiques. Don't be fooled by imitations - trust me - between me and all my girlfriends, we have tried them all, and there is just no comparison. I guess that is why they are more expensive...you get what you pay for. They last a long time if you are nice to them...I wash mine with my easy care wash, and I dry them for 10 or 15 minutes before I take them out and let them finish air drying (Constance - no lip from you sister). I know very few people who do not love them. If you don't have a pair, run out and get one!!! Check out the site, www.hankypanky.com, and feel free to give feedback. XX-Ash