Rainy Day Makeup

My makeup routine is fairly simple- yet when the weather hits, most of the time I just want to grab a blanket and stay snuggled up in bed. However, there are times where I have to leave the house in a somewhat presentable manner.  For rainy days, I like to keep my makeup simple and subtle. This is what I use.



I always start with the base of my skin and work my way out.....starting with my lotion.

• I love this Yes to Tomatoes repairing acne lotion. It is a great base for my T-zone and helps prevent blemishes.
• After this dries, I add my cult classic Oil of Olay (with SPF 15- not pictured) on top. I have been using this lotion on my face since my teen years and it has proven to be a staple in my skincare routine.
• Next, is the CoverGirl/Oil of Olay Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation. This is my miracle worker. It spreads easily (i use my fingers) and covers blemishes, skincolor variations and smooths problematic skin areas. It really is a great miracle worker- especially in a pinch!
• If I am not using my CoverGirl/Olay foundation, then I use my Bare Minerals powders. The price is no laughing matter but I have never found a better base of makeup in my life. It is worth EVERY SINGLE penny. This stuff was a miracle worker on my face during outbreaks in college. I will never use any other powder for my skin. I never break out when I use this product alone.
• For my cheeks, I use ULTA's Cheek Color. It is a budget fix that works just as well as name brand products with just as much pigment.
• For a bit of eye pop, I line my eyes with NYC Kohl Liner. These budget-friendly eyeliners pack a punch for very little money.
• Finishing the routine, I use CoverGirl's Professional Super Thick Lash Mascara. I could use a waterproof mascara but this formula makes my lashes look fantastic. If you want a good waterproof mascara, stick with the classic Maybelline.

And there you have it! Budget beauty buys that work in windy/rainy weather days. Remember, beauty does not have to break the bank!

Thrifting Trip this Weekend

This weekend I was in the mood for a little thrifting trip. I did a bit of driving to this great store called The ROC- it is a great consignment store that is not exactly close to where I live but the drive is always worth it. They have so many great furniture pieces that I cannot help but dream about so many great re-dos. I snagged up this adorable picnic basket, blue pyrex glass pie container, green J.Crew tshirt (not pictured) and creme brule dish for $15. Scored this round for the home. Love these items.

They did have the most amazing chair - that looked exactly like this target baby I have been eyeballing for quite some time now. Of course it is not in that exact pattern and MAYBE if I had the space in my car, she would have come home with me. For now, I dream.

Poshmark: An Alternative to Craigslist

Have you guys ever heard of Poshmark? Apparently, it is this new way to sell your clothing/jewelry and other items online. Kind of like a Craigslist for your closet. People can go online and view your clothing and you can sell it. And, if you have an iPhone or iPad, it is even easier for you to download their app. All you have to do is take a picture of the item you want to sell and post it for those to see. Once someone agrees to the price, Poshmark ships you a postage box to send out the item to the buyer. Once the buyer recieves the package, you get payment. Super easy right?

The best part is that all of the items are reasonably priced! For example, this Coach Silk Scarf is $55 clams - retail is much, much higher. If that is still a bit pricy for you, there is this cute 3 piece bangle set for $25. Great arm candy! But, there is a lot more and some pieces still have their tags. So, if you are in search of a bargain and do not mind purchasing someone's old treasures, then look around and see what you find.

Budget Last Minute Valentine's Day Gifts

It's the day before the big Valentine's Day Gift Exchange and for you lovers out there (who are on a budget), without a clue as to what to get that someone special on your list, I am here to help!

For Your Gal Pals:
Have an office BFF that is there for you when the boss just does not understand? Take this cute baby girl shower gift idea and turn it into one for her. Snag up a great pink or red polish and use a DIY tag for her. She will appreciate the gesture and the expense will be the polish!

For The Kids/Classmates:

Maybe you have kids that want to make their own valentine's favors for the kids in their class? Why not do a similar idea like blogger A Small Snippet and give these cute Pop Rocks goodies. I'm sure you will rock when you give one of these out! The best part is that these candies (or any other candy subsitute can be purchased in bulk!)

For the Guy's Guy:

Most guys like their signature beverage of choice. Some guys like beer. Some like Whiskey. Some just don't care. Why not grab a few of these mini-bottles at the store and fill a valentine's day heart with his favorite minis! Bonus: If you want to personalize each bottle, use personalized labels for each bottle.

For the Cheesy Romantic:

We all know someone who just loves being in love. Why not make them this simple easy card using cardstock, colored paper and a match book. Cheap. Fun. Priceless.

Well, my candy-loving, heart-drawing, budget romantics, I hope you have found a great budget gifts for that special someone on your list!

Furnishly: The New Furniture Mecca

Have you guys ever heard of Furnishly? It is pretty much a craiglist-type website for home furniture. And, they have some amazing classic pieces. Thanks to Pinterest, I stumbled across this little gem while looking for some vintage pieces for my ever-evolving home. And, when I found my local city listed, I jumped aboard to see what they had. Furnishly is a bit different than Craiglist. It also has some local stores that post their furniture as well. So, if for example you are looking for a store seller instead of a local seller, you can search their stores (under your particular city) and find their listings. And, you can even list your own items.

Here are some of my favorite items I have found......

This Super cute night stand in Detroit, MI for $20. What a steal for such a great piece. It is beautiful as a white piece, but can you image painting it another great color?

I am in love with this Z Gallerie green chair set inspired by Jonathan Adler. If you live in San Francisco, snag these up for $35.

I really adore this Richmond, VA Crate and Barrel yellow sofa. A bit out of my normal price range for steals and deals, it can be yours for $550.

Check them out! You may find some great deals or some beautiful pieces ready for a face lift without the hefty price tag.



Valentine's Day Dinner 1

Valentine's Day is a time to shine. Bring out your best in a flattering little dress to add that bit of pop to the night. This outfit screams fancy dinner and if your beau is taking you out for a night on the town, show him your classic style. Paired with a high heels and a simple clutch, this outfit let's the dress do all the talking. For any bold outfit, it is always best to pair simple items, like this bracelet to let it shine! Don't forget that bold lip to tie in the outfit. Makeup and hair do not have to be fussy- do what makes you feel your best! And, top your outfit off with your signature scent to add that last bit of WOW factor to the night!

Apartment Therapy's January Cure

Have you guys heard about Apartment Therapy's January Cure? It is their January challenge to pretty much get organized and clean to get you out of those January blues. Most of the challenge has been seen on Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest, but you can still join in on the to-do- yes even though tomorrow is the last day.
Each day you receive and email about the asisgnment, a couple of links to assist you and everything to help you reach your goal for the day. Even though the challenge is almost up, it is still a great way to spruce up the home and get it in working order...a bit of spring cleaning done early!

Method Cleaning Supplies via my Instagram

One of the challenges includes green cleaning. Here are my Method green cleaning sprays I use to clean around my home. Target had a killer sale on them (3 for $8- and I had a coupon) so these were super cheap...and one was already on clearance. So, this is what I did for one of my challenge days.

Again, even if the challenge is over tomorrow, it is not too late to get started on some home revamping to start the 2013 year off right!!