Quotes to Smile About

Hi guys! To brighten up your Tuesday, I thought I would share some super cute quotes with you. I know that when I’m feeling down, even seeing the littlest inspirational quote or photo will start to cheer me right up. You can also pin the quotes below and come back and look at them when you’re feeling down some other day. Check them out below and be sure to pin your favorite one :)

 

 

Avoid It!

So I was looking at some of my makeup, and I rarely do this but I saw the label. 

I saw all this funky looking ingredients so I looked at what they actually are. I 

was shocked to find out what I was putting in my face. I am going to try to buy 

less of product with these ingredients because they are harmful to your skin. 

Lists of Ingredients to Avoid in Makeup

1. Diazolidinyl Urea
2. Imidazolidinyl Urea
3. Diethanolamine (DEA)
4. Triethanolamine(TEA)
5. Parabens: Ethyl, Butyl, Methyl, Propyl, and Parahydroxybenzoate
6. Petrolatum
7. Propylene Glycol
8. PVP/VA Copolymer
9. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
10. Sodium Laureth Sulfate
11. Stearalkonium Chloride
12. Synthetic colors
13. Synthetic Fragrances

For a complete list and details visit this site 

http://www.naturalskincaresecrets.com/cosmetic-ingredients-avoid.html

5 Basics of Makeup

1. FOUNDATION- Covers blemishes and darks spots and creates a flawless complexion. If you use a wedge or the palm of your hand so there will be no streaks.
2. BLUSH- Adds rose and color to brighten the cheeks. Start on apples of cheeks and move up toward the ears.
3. EYESHADOW- Natural colors like browns work on most eye colors. A blending brush is vital.
4. MASCARA- Lengthens lashes. Small wands for the corners are best.
5. LIPSTICK/GLOSS- Can finish or make a look.

The 10 Commandments of Mascara

There’s an old joke amongst makeup artists that even the woman who insists she doesn’t wear any makeup won’t leave her house without mascara. A beauty staple that has been referenced in literature and dictionaries since as far back as the 1400’s, mascara instantly makes eyes look brighter and bigger; it helps darken and define pale or sparse lashes, and it is the final flourish on just about any outfit. But with so many choices crowding cosmetic shelves today, how to know which formula is best? By thinking a bit about what outcome you want from your mascara and following a few simple rules, you can master this popular beauty tool in a flash.
#1: Mascara is a one-woman tube. Even if your best friend begs and promises the world and all that is in it will fall down in shambles around you if you don’t share your mascara – don’t do it. One of the most susceptible cosmetic products to bacterial infection, the warm, dark, moist environment of a mascara tube is the perfect atmosphere for microbes and other unsavory elements to flourish. Sharing mascara encourages cross-contamination and could introduce one of these bugs into your mascara or worse, your eyes. Instead, keep a few tubes of inexpensive mascara on hand for sharing emergencies and save the sharing for shoes, handbags and phone numbers.
#2: Respect the shelf life. Mascara has a shelf life of three to four months, maximum. To truly get the best performance out of any mascara, it’s important to respect this timeline and promptly replace. Help remember the expiration dates by writing the purchase date on the bottom of the tube in permanent marker or put a note in your phone or day planner. Fresh mascara not only looks better, it’s safer for your eyes.
#3: DNR: Do Not Resuscitate. Dried out mascara is just that – dried out mascara. Introducing oil, water or worse yet – saliva – into the tube won’t miraculously give you more mascara, nor will it return your favorite mascara back to its former creamy, velvety glory. What will? Buying a fresh tube. Adding water or any other liquid to your favorite mascara only increases your chances of getting an infection or contaminating your product.

#4. Say bye-bye. Lashes are hair, and just like any other hair on your body, they need to be cared for and treated to a regular skincare regimen. Always remove mascara every time you wear it with the appropriate eye makeup remover. For non-waterproof formulas, look for a gentle, non-oily option such as Sephora Collection Instant Eye Makeup Remover or Almay Eye Makeup Remover Pads Oil Free. For waterproof mascara, try a bi-phase remover which has special optimizers to help soften and whisk away water-proof mascara without pulling, tugging or ripping at eyelashes such as Kate Somerville True Lash™ Lash Enhancing Eye Makeup Remover

#5: L is for Length. One of the leading types of mascara available and for good reason – nearly everyone wants longer, fuller, sexier lashes, just like the ones we see on TV, in movies and in ads – and lengthening mascara is the answer. A perfect formula for women with denser lash growth or even a bit of natural curl, lengthening mascaras are often formulated with fibers or lash-extending polymers (such as elastic) that build-on themselves seamlessly to create extra length. Often, this type of mascara (as well as volumizing and curling formulas) also feature added lash benefits such as vitamins, conditioning oils or nut butters and vegetable proteins to strengthen lashes. Try Rimmel Lycra Lash Extender Mascara, Cover Girl Lash Blast Lengthening Mascara or Laura Mercier Long Lash Mascara.

#6: V is for Volume. Just as lengthening mascaras stretch each lash out to long, sleek lengths, volumizing mascaras build up the density or diameter of each lash to help create the appearance of more lashes. Sometimes featuring a special thick brush, volumizing mascara is great for the woman who already has enough length, but really wishes for thicker, fuller lashes overall. Look for a formula with the same added extras such as conditioners or proteins to really help protect and strengthen lashes while also building that coveted volume. Good options include: FairyDrops Scandal Queen Mascara, Korres Volcanic Minerals Volumizing Mascara and L’Oreal Voluminous False Fiber Lashes.

#7: Something for everyone: the happy hybrid. And for the woman who wants both lengthening and thickening (as well as curling and enhancing), look no further than catwalk or multi-function mascara, so called because the formulas are based off of mascara used on runaway models at fashion shows to give them a ‘catwalk’ appearance. Usually featuring the queen of all mascara brushes, the extended teddy bear brush for precise application, catwalk mascaras build incredible volume and length, as well as help many women achieve the appearance of wearing false eyelashes without having to go to through all the trouble. Great options include Tarte Lights (photo, above), Camera, Lashes!, Diorshow Mascara, Benefit BADgal Lash and Maybelline Cat Eyes Washable Mascara.

#8: Good growth! Arising out of the popularity of lash growth products (both over-the-counter and prescription), lash growth mascara is hot. But take note – not all formulas are the same, and new lash growth may come in different than you may imagine. For example, if your eyelashes are normally curly, you may find that lash growth mascara can bring about the odd stick-straight lash here or there, rather than the curly lashes you expected. Still, they are a great way to strengthen and help encourage thicker lashes. Check out Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara, Almay Get Up and Grow Mascara or Urban Decay Lush Lash Mascara.

#9: What about tubes? Created to fight the eternal struggle against flaking, smudging and smearing, tube-technology mascara is one of the newest offerings on the mascara market. Made with tiny ‘tubes’ that cling to the lashes, these mascaras are not formulated with the traditional waxes or pigments that tend to flake off or smudge. Instead, they are crafted with a polymer tube technology that actually creates long, exceptionally fine tubes that encircle each lash, stretching and enhancing the lashes with absolutely no smudging – even if you cry, swim or sweat. And perhaps one of the most exciting aspects – tube mascara does not budge until you take it off, typically with nothing more than warm water and a washcloth. And, you can see the tiny tubes in your hand after removal! Good options include Blinc Mascara or L’Oreal Double Extend Lash Extension Effect Mascara.

#10: Color, color everywhere. When it comes to choosing the right color of mascara, I like to think no hard and fast rule applies. Typically, women with dark brown to black hair are encouraged to wear inky black to deep brown; women with medium brown hair tones are encouraged to wear deep brown or light brown, and lighter hair colors to wear brown or light brown. However, I find this isn’t always good advice, and often – not indicative of what women actually want. Choose a mascara color that makes you happy and will allow you to achieve the effect you seek. If it’s bold, big, bright eyes – a darker shade is a great choice as it will make the eyes pop – especially lighter colors. However, if you prefer a softer, more natural look, then a lighter shade of mascara will probably give you a better outcome. Experiment and play to find your best fit, and don’t forget that sometimes, color makes all the different. Brown eyes sparkle with plum, hunter green and especially navy mascaras, and many brands offer mascara with a hint of gleam or glitter, perfect for holiday or party looks.

DIY: How to Make an Ikat-Inspired iPad Case

-Canvas iPad or computer case (mine is from Baggu)
-Colored permanent markers
-Eye dropper
-Rubbing alcohol





1. Using the blue marker, draw vertical lines next to each other, forming the shape of a zig-zag.

2. Switch to the orange, adding to the zig-zag shape, and then to the pink.
3. After completing the first section, use the eye dropper to cover the area with rubbing alcohol. This will make the ink bleed.
4. Continue the three color zig-zag pattern, adding more rubbing alcohol as you move along.
5. On the next row, change the direction of the pattern, but keep each colored section lined up vertically so that they look like stitching.
6. In the empty spaces, add accent lines to complete the design and add cover them with rubbing alcohol.
7. Once the ink dries, touch up any areas that have bled too much with more marker lines.
8. Now it's finished! 

New Year, New You?

All girls have that New Years resolution to lose 10 stubborn pounds or be nicer, but for some they fizzle out in mid February. This is because we lose ambition and hope. We have to believe in ourselves to even start. This year, I challenge you to stick with the resolution you make. It's hard yes but I swear it pays off.  When if comes to making New Years resolutions, we need to e practical. Instead of trying to change ourselves we need to make improvements. We shouldn't change who we are, especially if it is for others. If you feel like you have to change who you are, than your New Years resolutions is to get more self confidence, not to change. Make this new year a one for bettering who you really are. And stick to your goals, whatever they may be.

Best Songs of 2012

In 2012 there were some really fab songs (and some not so great ones). In my opinion these songs really were the best of 2012. This is just my opinion and if you have some different ideas of what were the best songs I would love for you to post them in a comment below.

1. What makes you beautiful, by One Direction- I say this because I think it really jump started their career and I heard it so many times on the radio and couldn't help singing along.
2. We are Never Getting Back Together, by Taylor Swift- I think that it is really catchy and cute.
3. Some Nights, by Fun- I love the vocals on this song.
4. Call Me Maybe, by Carley Rae Jepson- The nation couldn't stop singing it.
5. Drive By, by Train- The vocals were really rich and the music video was cool.
6. Stronger, by Kelly Clarkson- It proved a point that won't kill you will make you stronger and uplifted many souls.
7. It will Rain, by Bruno Mars- I have always been a fan of Bruno Mars and this so g was espeshilly good because it pours out his heart.
8. Super Bass, by Nikki Manaj- I was the perfect dancing song and everyone had to know every last word of it.
9. A Thousand Years, by Christina Perri- It touched many hearts and was even featured in the last Twilight movie.
10. Better Dig Two, by The Band Perry- It may be a country song but the vocals and lyrics are astonishing. And the song overall relays an important message.

We Heart It

So I was introduced to a really cool new site called We Heart It (weheartit.com). It's a site where you can look at pictures. I like it because you can see cute hairstyles, vintage, wedding stuff, and really anything because it is endless. You could even upload a picture from another site. It is so cute! I want to thank my friend Hannah for getting me into it, and my friend Jordyn for constantly showing me new things. I would recommend getting your friends into it because its always fun to see what they heart. I just think it's a cute website like tumbler or twitter and wanted to share it with you guys. 

DIY: SPRUSE UP OLD PUMPS

DIY: spruse up old pumps With GLITTER

Between holiday gifts, plane and train tickets, gas money and a ticket to that fancy NYE ball, it's no surprise we're left with just a few cents to our name come New Year's. But don't think that means you can't rock some stellar new pumps to match your party dress. With this super easy and cheap DIY, you can turn tired old shoes into sparkling new ones just in time for New Year's!

For less than $5, you can have sparkly new shoes that are perfect for that office holiday party, your NYE bash or just date night with the hubby. Plus, you can customize the color of glitter to match your shoes or, if you're feeling ambitious, cover your entire shoe in glitter!

Supplies:

• Old high heels
• Mod podge glue
• Glitter
• Paintbrush

Instructions:

1

Mix paint and 1/2 the glitter together

Pour about 2 tablespoons of glue and 1/2 of your glitter into a shallow bowl. Since we had two gold colors, we mixed them for added sparkle.

2

Paint glitter glue onto shoe heel

Using your paintbrush, paint about two coats of the glitter glue onto the heels of your shoes.

3

Cover glue in dry glitter

Place your glued heel over a bowl and add dry glitter to it to liberally cover the glue.

4

Dry

Once heels have been glittered, let dry overnight. Then wear!

Sample Boxes

The cutest new way to try out items is sample boxes. You pay a certain subscription price, just like magazines to have the boxes shipped to you. These are boxes that are sent to you via mail and they contain cute little items that are new and 'in'. The can have makeup or nail polish or cute pens and notes. Some are better than others, but I simply adore them. These are some sites were you too can get sample boxes: www.loosebutton.com  http://www.birchbox.com/?raf=x4c8a and http://www.zadidoll.com/p/subscriptionsampling-boxes.html . These are my favorites.

The Shooting in Connecticut

A man killed his mother at home and then opened fire Friday inside a Connecticut elementary school, massacring 26 people, including 20 young children, as youngsters cowered in their classrooms and trembled helplessly to the sound of gunfire reverberating through the building.

The shooter, who sources identified as Adam Lanza, 20, shot his mother, Nancy Lanza, in the face at their home in Newtown, Conn., then went to nearby Sandy Hook Elementary School where she taught and gunned down her entire class, bringing the death toll to 28, according to sources.

Lanza was found dead inside the school, according to officials. Eighteen of the children and six more adults were dead at the school and two more children died later, according to Connecticut State Police Lt. Paul Vance.

The shooter was Ryan Lanza, 24. 

The rampage, coming less than two weeks before Christmas, was the nation's second-deadliest school shooting, exceeded only by the Virginia Tech massacre that claimed 33 lives in 2007.

Law enforcement officials speaking on condition of anonymity said that Lanza killed his mother, Nancy Lanza, then drove to the school in her car with at least three guns, including a high-powered rifle that he apparently left in the back of the vehicle, and shot up two classrooms around 9:30 a.m.

A custodian ran through the halls, warning of a gunman on the loose, and someone switched on the intercom, alerting people in the building to the attack -- and perhaps saving many lives -- by letting them hear the hysteria going on in the school office, a teacher said. Teachers locked their doors and ordered children to huddle in a corner or hide in closets as shots echoed through the building.

The vehicle the suspect drove to the school was registered to his mother. At least three guns were found -- a Glock and a Sig Sauer, both pistols, inside the school, and a .223-caliber rifle in the back of a car, authorities said.

Sources told Fox News the guns used in the shooting were owned by and legally registered to Nancy Lanza.

Most of the children were between age 5 and 10  it makes me cry to thank what a world it is where you aren't even safe in your own school. These children had their whe lives ahead of them they could have had children of their own, marriages, graduation, hopes, dreams. But they were stripped of that so young. The parents probally already had presents from Santa hiding in their closet or garage. Those presents won't be opened and they will have to face that. No parent should ever have to bury their child. So on Monday wear blue, the school color, in remembrance of those young children who were killed in the mass murder. 

Mani Monday: Neon and Gold Nail Tutorial

Hi loves! I was browsing and came across this way cute nail design that anyone can do. It's perfect for Mani Monday. (:

1. First paint your nails a neon pink color. You can actually use any color you want, but I thought the neon pink was fun and girly! Try using “Forget Me Nots” by Essie—it’s a gorgeous strawberry milkshake pink!

2. Then, starting from the middle of your nail and going from left to right, paint diagonally with a different colored polish. She used a bright orange polish from American Apparel called “Neon Coral.” It’s ok if your line isn’t perfectly straight because you’re going to paint over it next!

3. Using a nail art pen, paint over the diagonal line between both polish colors. I love how she used a metallic gold color because it adds contrast and makes it super cute.If you don't have a nail pen use use tape on step 2 and 3 to make the lines straight.

Just finish off with a clear topcoat and there you have it! These nails are pretty bright, but I think that’s what makes them so fun. You can give your colors a fall update by using gray, maroon, dark green, navy, or eggplant. It’s really up to you!

DIY: Bow Bun

I was searching Pinterest for something really cute to share with you guys and I found this adorable bow bun idea. I hope y'all try it, I know I will. It would look precious with a vintage style outfit.

Rolled Pants: Cute But How is it Done?

               Rolling your ants instantly makes you look seem effortless and it adds an element of personal style- it shows your hand. Plus it is an easy way to show off a great pair of shoes. However, the way you roll them can make or break and outfit.
              There are two styles you can roll: slouchy trousers, like boyfriend jeans, or  skinny jeans. In both cases, hefty fabrics like denim or twill work better than drape-y ones like silk or Tancel. Never try to roll wide-leg pants, since it is easy to catch your heel in the cuff. Not to mention the fact that it looks clunky  and undefined.
               As a rule it is best to roll the hem twice, with the width of one one and a half inches. Keep it mess; a roll that's too flat and neat looks contrived. With slim-cut jeans, I love a single fold that is two and a half inches wide for a 50's beatnik look. Or you can roll it twice and keep the cuff thin.
               Rolling the pants means you don't need to hem them, so you have a lot of flexibility with flats and heels. For a tomboy look, try oxfords; for a dressier spin, wear heels. But no wedges- they are too clunky.
                    To show off the skinniest part of your ankle, roll the pants to about four or five inches above the ankle bone. But if you're self-conscious about thick ankles, this look might not be for you.

How to Try a Trend

               Whether you have taken part in one or even started one, trends have been in the lives of many people. A makeup trend is no different from a clothing trend: It can be scary to step out of your comfort zone. But if you see a bright lipstick or colorful shadow that inspires you, I say go for it. The real question we face all to often is how to try it. In this post I will tell you how.
              Make it real. Makeup that's done for the runway or a photo shoot is exaggerated to look good under powerful lights, not a regular day. The key is to adapt to a single element. Lips are the easiest. Try applying a new color with your fingers rather than a brush so it doesn't look painted on. Eye trends are a little trickier, but a colored eyeliner is an easy way to go adventurous.
              Don't go retro. I wouldn't recommend trying to start a trend, or even follow one that is retro. Avoid trends that are a reference to the past too literally. Forties-shaped eyebrows are always going to look costumey and, let's face it, old.
             Be honesty with yourself. A shade might be fashionable at the moment but skip it if it clashes with your complexion. If you struggle with ruddiness, don't wear red shades that will magnify it. Fuchsias are more flattering because they have a blue base. Around the eyes browns and purples look absolutely great on just about everyone.
            Get comfortable. A good way to get used to a trendy look is to wear it around the house. When you are ready to bring it out into the world, wait for a dinner day with your friends as apposed to a day at the office-you are more likely to feel confident and get complements. Also your friends will most likely tell you what works on you and what doesn't.
              So next time you try a makeup trend (or any one for that matter) keep in mind these tips, and hopefully your trend will look stunning.

Black Friday

If you are going black shopping than it is important to be safe. Many people will stop at nothing to get the deals on this after thanksgiving holiday. The important thing to keep in mind is to be safe and get the good deals. Many stores are opening earlier than ever, some as early as 4:00 am thanksgiving morning. Many workers are upset but the shoppers couldn't be happier. Keep safe and get the good deals!

A Pain in the Neck

                Oversize handbags never seem to go out of style, but you don't get fashion points for the neck and shoulder pain that tends to accompany them. The fact of the mater is, the hold more, which causes them to weigh more, when causes more and more stress on your shoulders and neck. You can't make it go away completely, but if you are a big handbag kinda girl, here are a few tips on how to work out the kinks.

1. Train yourself. Try to train yourself to switch the side you carry your bag on. Try switching every ten minutes or so to avoid causing one shoulder to much stress. Also be careful no to scrunch up the shoulder it's on. 
2. When you put it down. Take a few minutes to stretch you shoulders or back when you rest and put down your bag. Say you are at a cafe and waiting for someone. Bend your head forward, right, left and back in careful, slow movements. Don't try to swivel it around like a doll. After all, you head isn't a ball and socket joint. 
3.  If you start to feel. If you start to feel your neck and shoulders tense up you should "reset" them. You can do this by bringing you shoulders to your ears and holding this position tightly for three seconds. Than drop them, letting your arms hang loosely at you sides. This will help to relax your shoulders and especially your neck. 
4. At the gym. When you are working out at the gym and you carry a large bag, add a few moves to strengthen you shoulders and back muscles. Lateral raises and pull-downs, push-ups and planks all can help. 

Cute DIY: Workout Shirt

So I was looking around for a really cute idea to show you guys and I stumbled across this. It is a way you can turn your old, never worn T-shirt into something more. A super cute workout shirt. All you will need is an old T-shirt and a pair of scissors.

• First locate you materials.
• The second step is to cut off the sleeves, back collar, and bottom of the shirt.
• Thirdly, flip your shirt over
• Than, cut the back into a V
• Fifthly, use the bottom of the shirt that you already cut to tie the back together as shown.
• Knot it as you see in step 6.
• Lastly, cut the shirt upward. The picture shows all the steps. 

Book Review: The Help

Okay, so I know all of y'all have seen the famous movie, The Help. Well it was based off a fabulous book by Kathryn Stockett. The book features black maid, Aibileen as she is working for her 17th white child. It also includes Skeeter, a white woman who tries to act like a proper lady. She attends the bridge club and is in the league. She writes the Mrs. Myrna article in the paper. She asks for the help of Aibileen and when one thing leads to another she starts to write a book of stories of black maids and their lives. After much work and dedication the book is finished. The book receives amazing reviews, but when the book is suspected to be based on Jacksonville, Hilly who has an embarrassing part in the book, try's to persuade people it isn't. This story is a must read. It is my new favorite book. It's beauty and glory is not even justified in this short summery. It makes you smile and it will make you cry.  I love the wording and couldn't put the book down. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. 

                                            

DIY: Cute Shoes

So everyone has those never worn white shoes, and now you cam decorate them in a way cute way. This idea is totally designer inspired. I think the idea is way cute and it is super easy. All you will need is poster board or construction paper, the shoes, and fabric markers in various colors. Step one is to use the paper to cut out a design whether it is stripes or zig-zags. Whatever make you happy. Than you have to trace it with a pencil. trace it all the way up the shoes. Once you have done that, you can color it in. And really, thats all there is to it. So I hope you love your new and improved shoes.