ALTERNA Caviar Repair Duo

Yesterday I mentioned that my feet need a break after all the heel wearing this past month but the damage I did to my feet is minimal compared to the damage I did to my hair.

For someone with thin hair that damages easily, the holiday season can absolutely cause chaos on your hair.  And it did.  

With numerous holiday parties, dinners, and celebrations, I styled, curled, straightened, and loaded my hair with products A LOT over two months and toward the end of December the damage was apparent.  My hair had become extremely dry and not it's normal, shiny and soft self.  I took my normal first steps of repair by not blow drying my hair all week and using a mask to help give it some hydration but that was not enough.  I really had put my hair through the ringer.

After a visit to my local beauty supply store, I came home with the ALTERNA Caviar Repair Duo.  

Though the salesperson raved about this system, I still wasn't sold.  I have tried numerous products over the years and yes, they have been okay, but nothing that has blown me away.  After reviewing my other options though, this seemed like my best bet.  It was worth a shot.

I am now officially obsessed with this shampoo and conditioner.  After only one wash, I could already feel a difference in my hair.  I know that this is absolutely not believable because nothing works right away but I promise it was true. (cue infomercial before and after photos now)  I have now used it over the last few weeks and my hair is back!  I also took it with me to Chicago where I knew it would be extremely cold and dry (hello Polar Vortex!) and it kept my hair moisturized and soft through the harsh winter weather.  There is now a high probability that I will never use another shampoo and conditioner again.

I must state that I very rarely like a shampoo and conditioner enough to write about it.  In fact, I do not think I ever have.  You may not really care about that but it does say something about how much I like this stuff.  If you did some damage to your hair over the holidays, you may want to pick some up for yourself.

Helping your skin survive the Holiday celebrations

One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is all the celebrations.  I just love getting together with family and friends, catching up with those you haven't seen in a while and seeing everyone celebrating such a special time of year.  Unfortunately, my skin does not like it as much as I do.

With all the celebrating (a.k.a drinking and eating), the dry weather, late nights and the constant application of makeup, my skin takes a beating every holiday season.  I follow a strict skin regime during this time to help combat all the abuse it is taking.  With 6 more holiday parties over the next three weekends, it is necessary!  Here are my five daily MUST HAVES that make an incredible difference during this time of year.

Apple Cider Vinegar

I have mentioned apple cider vinegar a couple times on the blog but during the holiday season, it is an absolute must.  I drink 2 tablespoons with water every day to help my immune system and to keep my skin clear and smooth.  It is amazing the difference I see if I don't drink it for a few days.  Plus, who wants to get sick when they can be at holiday parties?!  If you are going to add anything this holiday season, this is it.

Vitamin Water

Remember, water is always better.  And I love water but with how dry my skin gets, hydration is key and I get bored with drinking gallons of water all day.  Vitamin Water is my go-to for some flavor.  Having one every now and then shakes up the blandness of water and helps me stay hydrated.  Is it the best thing for you?  Probably not, but remember, the more dry your skin is, the more your fine lines and wrinkles will show, so find your hydration drinks and keep drinking!

Eve Lom Cleanser

I always use this cleanser at night before bed but during the Winter season I use it morning and night.  It is much more moisturizing than any other cleanser I have tried, takes off all my makeup and leaves my skin feeling refreshed.  I believe in this cleanser so much that I will never use a different one again.  It is that good.

Eve Lom Day Cream

After washing my face in the morning and prior to applying my tinted moisturizer, I apply this day cream.  It is extremely light and provides just a little more added moisture, complimenting my tinted moisturizer without looking greasy.  It also stands great on its own when a day without makeup is needed.

Dr. Perricone Concentrated Restorative Treatment

After washing my face at night and after applying my toner, I apply this Vitamin C treatment.  It is amazing the work it does while I sleep.  Not only does it restore my skin but it also has helped with some fine lines and wrinkles that have decided to show.  The added bonus is how soft your skin feels in the morning.

Other things I do during this time of year is apply aztec mud mask once a week, try to get as much sleep as I can and when attending a party, keeping my drinking to a minimum.  The bonus of this is not waking up feeling like crap with three little ones running around.

I hope you are all having as much fun as I am celebrating the holidays!   

Cheers to the Weekend!  

Sick

As hard as I was crossing my fingers not to get sick, by Friday it was clear that I had caught something.   Instead of taking some time to rest I pushed through and attended three events over the weekend.  This was perhaps not the best idea and what was a slight cold on Friday took a turn for the worst and by Monday morning, it was apparent that I better take it seriously.  Commence massive cold and sinus drug intake.  

What does the above eye liner have to do with any this?  Absolutely nothing.  I just wanted to share because this Trish McEvoy Intense Gel Eye Liner is my new favorite eye liner.  It is SO easy to put on (this is coming from someone who ALWAYS has issues applying eye liner), stays on all day and is really, the perfect black. Black liner is a staple for me so finding this was a treat.

On a completely separate note, did you see this aticle from Today Mom's?  I, along with many other moms, apparently win the prize for having the"most stressful number of kids".  Yea us!  

This is a random post and I am going to blame all the Sudafed on that one but I hope everyone is having a great start to the week and I hope to be back to me regular scheduled programming tomorrow! 

By Terry

At the first Space.NK event I hosted, I was introduced to a line called "By Terry", a cosmetics line developed by Terry de Gunzberg. The line focuses on using the highest protective ingredients from botanical extracts, the latest technology, ultra-rare pigments and textures and delivered through "click-pens", making the entire application process and touch ups extremely easy.  While hosting I was too busy talking to be able to sit down in the makeup chair and try the products but numerous attendees were raving about them.

Finally, a couple months ago, I was able to try the line out myself and have become a huge fan.  These five items are my favorite and have replaced other lines that I have been using for years.  The easy application allows me to throw the pens into my purse and touch up throughout the day without a mess.  Of all the products, my two favorite are the mascara, which makes your lashes look a MILE long, and the Creme de Rose Nuit, a night cream that has an incredible rose smell and just feels incredibly decadent when you put it on. 

1. Creme de Rose Nuit Firming Repair Night Cream/ 2. Velvet Creme Blush / 3. Touch Expert Concealer 

4. Mascara Terrybly/ 5. Light Expert Foundation

Medicine Cabinet

Chalk it up to the bi-polar weather we have been having (or perhaps the steady increase of cocktails due to the rise of holiday parties) but my skin has been taking a beating over the past few weeks.  Anyone else have this problem?

I have added these items to my routine and could not be happier with how they are treating my skin.  I would call them miracle workers but then you may say I am simply dramatic and disregard my praise.  So, I would simply say, if you would like to slow aging just a tad, or perhaps "may" indulge in some holiday festivities of your own, definitely give some of these a try.

EVE LOM 'Rescue' Mask
I have mentioned numerous times my obsession with the EVE LOM Cleanser (daily ritual people....it is amazing) but I have also now added this mask to the list.  I use it on nights prior to going out and it makes your skin baby soft, making makeup application as smooth as can be.
Cleanser + Mask = Perfection.

Dior Addict 'Lip Glow' Color Reviver Balm
This is like lip balm on steriods.  It makes your lips incredibly soft, adds some color to them and can be used on its own or prior to applying lipstick to ensure it goes on smooth.  I use this every morning and keep in my purse for additional applications.

Darphin Predermine Replenishing Anti-Wrinkle Cream
BEST. CREAM. EVER
Makes your skin incredibly soft and I have definitely noticed a difference in my fine lines. I use it at night, every night.
It is my favorite part of my bedtime routine.
OBSESSED.

Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream
My Best Friend J introduced this to me over the summer while we were visiting in Chicago and I have been using it ever since.  I wear this Monday through Friday when I want some basic coverage without wearing foundation.  Plus, I am a sunscreen freak these days and love that it has SPF.

Butter London West End Wonderland
Okay, this does nothing for your skin but sparkles and I love it.

Click here and here for some of my other medicine cabinet favorites!

Holiday Prep with Space NK

Last week I hosted my third event with Nicky Kinnaird and the Space.NK team at Bloomingdale's South Coast Plaza and this one topped all the rest (here are the first and second events).  The event was moved to the upstairs lounge to accommodate additional individuals.  This provided a fantastic space for Nicky to walk through what is new for Winter, how to prep and keep your makeup looking fresh through all of your holiday parties, and some great gift suggestions for the holidays.  I wish I would have taken better photos of everyone there but I now consider myself an honorary member of the Space NK team and was having too much fun helping people shop instead of snapping away and brushing my hair (as is noticeable in the below photo).  Don't worry though.  I was still able to pick up a couple of gifts and the Predermine Replenishing Anti-Wrinkle Cream, an item I received in my last gift bag that I loved and had to start using.  

Thank you Space. NK and Bloomingdale's for allowing me to host yet another fabulous event!  

"I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship"

Nicky's Picks with SPACE.NK.apothecary

When I hosted my first event with SPACE.NK last November, I fell in love with the apothecary.  Each item that I went home with has since become a staple in my skincare regime.  I had heard the same from other individuals who attended that event and was so excited to find a one-stop shop for incredible skincare products.  Being that I firmly believe SPACE.NK carries the some of the best skincare products in the world, imagine my excitement when they asked me to return and host another event this past Thursday.

Our first event was focused on "Mom's on the Go" so this time they changed it up a bit and highlighted "Nicky's Picks of the Season".  If you have not had the pleasure of meeting Nicky Kinnaird in person and hear her speak on skincare, you are really missing out.  She walked us through her "must haves" for summer and then each individual was able to meet with her and members of her team to discuss their own skincare needs.  It was another successful event and once again, SPACE.NK delivered on a fun evening of skincare, laughs and the perfect excuse for a Girl's Night Out.

Thank you SPACE.NK.apothecary, Bloomingdale's and everyone who attended the event for making it such a success!

The Stage!

Nicky and I

The Gift Bags!

And what did I come home with?  Take a look!

Eve Lom Cleanser
NIA24 Sun Damage Protection Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
BAKEL P-Lipic (Rebuilding Formula) Serum
Clarisonic Sensitive Brush Replacement

Medicine Cabinet

A while back I wrote this post on some of my favorite items in my medicine cabinet.  I still continue to use them all but because I am a woman, I cannot be satisfied with what I currently have.  I must add more.  It is in our genes.  So, here are a few recent additions to my medicine cabinet that I currently have a crush on.

Butter London The Top and Tails Set

I received this set as a hostess gift and absolutely love it.

The combo really does help to keep your nail polish from chipping and I like how strong my nails have gotten since using.

Coincidence?  Perhaps, but I doubt it based on the lack of calcium in my diet.

Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Dark Circle Eye Roller

This is my new favorite under eye concealer.

Not only does it conceal but also helps correct dark circles.

Plus, with it being a roller, it is extremely easy to put on and does not look thick under your eyes.

Bumble and Bumble Hair Powder in Brown

I have really been trying not to wash my hair every day but because of how dark my hair is, 

hair powder only makes it look worse.

This color actually blends really well with my hair instead of making it look like I am going gray..

though according to this post, that is apparently in my future.

Bragg Raw Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar

Okay, so it is technically not in my medicine cabinet but my pantry.

That being said, I do drink it for my skin and internal health so it counts.

I fell off the wagon for a bit but have returned to drinking a couple tablespoons in water each day.

There are way TOO many health benefits to list here but just trust me when I say, IT IS GOOD FOR YOU.

Laura Mercier 'Custom Artist Portfolio' Sheer Creme Color in Pink Cheek Veil

I recently picked up this blush for summer and I LOVE it.

You cannot really mess up the application.

Plus, it makes me look healthy since I am shielding my face from the sun ALL summer.

dermalogica AGE Smart Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 30

And speaking of staying out of the sun, I do not walk outside without this on.

Not in the morning.  Not at night.  Never.

It is extremely light weight and I must say, I like it better than the Dr. Perricone one I have been using FOREVER.  

Sorry Dr, it is that good!

The SPACE.NK event is only one week away!  

If you are interested in attending click here for all the RSVP details.  

Make sure you do it soon though.  There are only a few more spots left!

A Night of Pampering

Left: What I wore to the event: tank: Joie (old), skirt: Soft Joie (old), clutch: Tory Burch (similar), jacket: Line and Dot, shoes: Michael Kors
Top right: Welcome to Burke Williams
Bottom Right: One of many beautiful arrangements around the spa

Tuesday night I had the pleasure of attending a private media event at Burke Williams Spa, Mission Viejo.  A night of cocktails, desserts and massages.  What could be better?!  Burke Williams has always been one of my favorites spas here in Orange County and Tuesday night did not disappoint.  The cocktails were provided by Little Black Dress Vodka and I must say, the Pineapple Splash (pineapple honey vodka with diet lemon-lime soda) was pretty delicious.  There is a good chance I had two while there, but that was only because all the cupcakes from Meringue Bake Shop (which looked incredible) were all gone so I deserved it.

Top Left: Tasty treats provided by Cookielicious
Bottom Left: a Burke Williams travel bath set, part of all the gifts in the swag bag
Right: Burke Williams menu

Women were able to indulge in paraffin wax hand massages, facials, massages and eyelash extensions, provided by Lash Spot Spa.  There was no question what was top of my list though.  With three children and the lack of a massage in FAR too long, I went directly for the 25 minute massage, focused on shoulders, back, hands and feet.  It was DIVINE.  Beyond the incredible services, it was such a nice opportunity to meet so many people (I am now trying to remember all the names!).  And after all the cocktails, pampering and chatting, I was as relaxed as relaxed could be and headed home for a wonderful night of sleep.

If you have not indulged yourself at a Burke Williams Spa yet, it is a MUST.  They have locations throughout Southern and Northern California and their treatment list is pretty extensive.  A few of my favorites that I have indulged in over the years are:

The Pure Relaxation Massage

The Deep Tissue Massage

The Pregnancy Massage

The Spa Style Facial

The Milk Bath

Their amenities are also extremely enjoyable and I could spend hours between the spa, steam room and sauna.  It really is a day event so make sure you give yourself enough time to take it all in!

Thank you so much to Burke Williams and The Ace Agency for having me.  I had such a great time!

* Juggling in Heels was provided a free massage service and swag bag for attending this event but all opinions stated are 100% my own.  

A Little Lavender

One thing that I am a sucker for are bath products.  I just ADORE them.  Well, I really adore baths and everything else that goes with them, including their products.  This It's Just Darlin' lavender scrub was given to me as a little gift from a friend.  I liked it so much that I did two things.  One, I decided that I needed to tell you all about it and two, I purchased 12 more to put into the goody bags for my Best Friend's bachelorette.

This scrub is equal parts luxurious and effective.  It makes your skin incredibly soft and also moisturizes it with essential oils.  It is made with all natural ingredients including fresh lavender and there is no way to describe how good it smells.  The icing on the cake is that this 4 oz. jar of scrub retails for $6.00!  Such a perfect little treat for yourself (or I guess others) for such a small price.  

This scrub is not the only item It's Just Darlin' sells.  They have numerous scrubs (though I have not tried them) but also carry some fun vintage finds as well.  The shipping gets cheaper when ordering an additional item so it might be just perfect to get one (or two) for you and one for a friend.  These will now be stocked at my house for hostess gifts or upcoming events I need "a little something" for. 

Medicine Cabinet

Today I am going to empty my medicine cabinet, sharing some of my must have's.

I have an addiction to beauty products and when I find something that works, I use them forever. 

You cannot go wrong with any of these.

Essie Chinchilly

This is my everyday, neutral nail polish. 

 I love the grey and it has been a great basic through the winter.

Cane + Austin Retexturizing Treatment Pads

These pads are CRAZY!

They have erased 90% of my sunspots, not even joking.

For a girl who has LIVED in this sun, these are a miracle.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make Up Remover

The only eye makeup remover that has worked for me. 

 I cannot even tell you how many YEARS I have been using this.

Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Spray Mousse

With hair as fine and thin as mine, you need SOMETHING to help it out. 

This root pump works great without making my hair greasy (another issue for fine, thin hair).

Indian Healing Clay

BEST MASK EVER!!!

Thanks to Delighted Momma I was introduced to this mask. 

Mixed with a little Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, this mask is INSANE. 

I cannot say enough about it.  It is my Sunday night ritual.

Kiehl's Lip Balm

Medicine Cabinet.  Nightstand.  Purse.  Desk.

I have this lip balm EVERYWHERE. 

 I am convinced my lips are addicted.

Interested in some of my other skincare and beauty must haves? 

Here are some previous posts on the topic!

Dr. Perricone Moisturizers

Eve Lom Cleanser and Clarisonic

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes

Laura Mercier

Dr. Perricone High Potency Eye Lift

Perfect Combination

I thought to finish off this week I would share my absolute favorite skincare combination that I cannot live without.  They work in perfect unison and I absolutely notice a difference if I do not use them both.

Eve Lom Cleanser

This cleanser is magic in a jar.  It is a cleanser, toner and exfoliant all in one.  It comes with a muslin cloth to wipe it off and truly removes every trace of dirt and makeup on your face.  It leaves your skin feeling incredible.  I began using this back in November and have noticed a tremendous difference in the texture of my skin.  I was a little hesitant due to the price but now I swear by it.  I have friends who have also been using this and they love it as well.  It will forever be a staple.

CLARISONIC PLUS

BEST INVENTION EVER.  When I was pregnant with number 3, I started to really break out (I blame it on having a girl since they try to make you ugly the entire pregnancy).  Unfortunately there is nothing you can use on your skin so my dermatologist told me to invest in a Clarisonic.  Again, due to the price, I was hesitant but thought spending the money was better than looking like a 13 year old going through puberty.  I am so glad I made the investment.  It cleared my skin right up and two years later, I still use this religiously every morning and every night.

Two investments, two miracle workers.  You will not be disappointed.  

Product Review: Hot Tot Hair Products

When I was asked by Hot Tot, the company behind a line of all natural, organic hair products for babies and children,  to do a product review, I quickly accepted.  Mostly because my oldest has the THICKEST, CURLIEST hair ever.  If it gets too long, just think Kramer.  It is incredibly hard to style and keep in place.  REALLY HARD.  Hot Tot told me they think they had just the products to help and sent me a few others to try out as well.  

Hot Tot Styling Gel

This was the product I was the most interested in trying.  I have used it on both my Oldest and Middle Man and tested how much it would take to get my Oldest's hair to listen.  Even though it is a medium hold gel, I thought it did a great job of holding their hair in place all day and did not look like I piled their hair with products.  I have also used this on Baby Girl to help her somewhat existent ponytails.  She has so many baby hairs that simply fly out as soon as I pull it back and this gel did a great job of keeping everything in place.

Hot Tot Structure Whip

This product is more creamy and thicker than the gel.  It was a bit too much for my Middle Man, who's hair is pretty thin, but it worked great on my Oldest.  With how much hair he has, it was extremely easy to work through and style without making it greasy or flat.  It held his hair in place all day, just like the gel.  For thick hair, this is the ideal product to go with but it does work best when hair is wet so I would stick with the gel for dry hair. 

Hot Tot Conditioning Detangler

Since none of my children have long hair yet, I decided to try this product out on myself.  I have used it for a number of days now and I have loved the results.  It sprays on easily, does a great job of detangling and leaves my hair extremely soft once it is dry.  If this product has the ability to make my adult hair feel great, I can only imagine how well it works on hair that has not been colored every 8 weeks for the past 10 years.

Overall, I really liked each product that I used.  The smell was that great baby scent and they each seemed to work really well on my children's hair.  The company prides themselves on using only extremely safe products so that your child can look great without harsh chemicals.  A win-win right?  I will definitely continue using these products on my children (oh yes, and myself).

To order Hot Tot products, visit their website here or find a local retailer near you here.

Disclaimer: I did receive products from Hot Tot for review purposes but all opinions stated are 100% my own.  No compensation was delivered for this review.

One of My Favorites: Energy Bubbles

Every day around 2 or 3pm, I hit a major wall.  And I mean MAJOR.  I need a jump start but there is really not an easy solution.  I cannot have coffee that late in the day or I won't be able to sleep and I am just not a soda drinker so that is out of the question. 

At the SPACE.NK event I was introduced to Energy Bubbles by David Kirsch, an alternative to caffeine for that afternoon pick-me-up.  Each packet consists of yerba mate, taurine, ginseng, potassium, and B vitamins and you simple mix with a 16 oz. bottle of water.  I was a little skeptical when I first tried it but could not believe how well it worked.  It felt like I had just had a big cup of coffee but did not give me the after effects of caffeine and did not keep me up all night.  Exactly what I needed.  I now keep a packet on hand at all times for that afternoon slump.  They are a definite must for anyone who needs a pick-me-up at the end of the day (isn't that all of us??).