Revlon Selects: Revlon Photoready Primer + Shadow in Metropolitan

Yesterday, I mentioned that I didn't have a snappy intro for my post, and you know what? I seem to be drawing a blank yet again. What is that about? I usually am not the type to come up short in the word department. It's like being in a writing class, and you have to write for twenty minutes to warm up. 'Free Writing'. I love writing, but *gags* free writing is terrifying. I hate feeling like I'm being put on the spot like that. You know?  Hey, look at that. I almost have an intro... I say almost, since the topic of free writing has nothing to do with Revlon Photoready Metropolitan Primer + Shadow palette. But, it's better than nothing, right? 

On to the shadows!

December Glossy Box - Canada

Hello, Blog fans! I don't have much of a wordy intro for your reading pleasure today, so let's just get down to business, shall we?

A couple of days ago, when I checked my mail, I was excited to find December's Glossy Box! I doubt there is anyone reading this who doesn't know what Glossy Box is by now, but if you don't know, it's a monthly subscription service that selects five deluxe size samples (and quite often a few full size as well) which are shipped to you in a very cute pink box. For more detailed information, see here.

Happy Holidays!

I just wanted to take a moment to wish all of you, my particularly gorgeous readers and friends, a Happy Holidays! I have a slew of posts to catch up on, so if you're needing a bit of a holiday beauty blog break, I'm your gal.

I wish everyone the happiest of holidays, the best of  all the good things this time of year brings, and of course, a few laughs with those you love.

What I've Been up to...

if you give an Igby a scratchums....

It's been a scary/long 24 hours people. Seriously. I don't know if you've ever had to deal with a sick pet, I know I never have, but I know I never want to have to again. 

Followers to Friends Blog Hop... I'm a Co-Host!

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Revlon Selects: Revlon ColourStay Ultimate Suede Lipstick

Revlon Canada recently put the call out to gather some ladies willing to try some of their newest offerings as part of what they call Revlon Selects. I jumped at the opportunity, and was one of the lucky few chosen. My box of goodies arrived yesterday, so I spent the evening testing a few items.

The product I was most looking forward to trying happens to be the Ultimate Suede Lipstick. I haven't seen these in stores locally yet, but based on my experience so far, I know I'll need to pick up a few more shades.

Yves Rocher Flawless Finish Fluid Foundation

hover me!

 
I've had a soft spot for Yves Rocher for... well, almost as long as I can remember. I have fond memories of hanging about the bathroom while my mom warmed up her bottle of gardenia oil. Back in the day, it was mixed with coconut oil that hardened at room temperature. She'd fill the sink with hot water and leave it to melt. I'd keep an eye on it and alert her when it was ready to go. If you've ever experienced gardenia oil, you'll know it has an incredible scent. Yves Rocher happens to be one of the only companies (that I know) that produce gardenia oil, thus my aforementioned soft spot.

Yves Rocher also happens to make some quality cosmetics. I've noticed that they don't get a lot of love on the blogosphere, but from what I've tried, they deserve a bit more credit. Let's take a peek at their Flawless Finish Fluid Foundation, shall we?

Revlon Photo Ready Airbrush Mousse Foundation

I find something incredibly alluring when it comes to moussey foundations. I've tried many, loved few, yet every-time a new one is introduced, I just can't help myself. I know I'm not alone at least; which is why I had to get my mitts on Revlon's Airbrush Mousse when it was released. I got this months ago, but I never really loved it and thus didn't use it much. I've recently revisited it, and have had a bit of a change of heart.

Theme Week: Foundation Nation

Hover over for full effect! 

I realized I have quite a few foundations I've yet to review, so what better than a theme week? Yay, theme week! I try and limit how many foundations I have on the go at once (nothing lasts forever, you know) but I find them so fascinating that I can't help but collect them. I tend to go for the lower priced options, not because I'm cheap, but because out of the handful of 'higher end' formulas I've tried I haven't been completely in love with any of them. It's not that I won't splurge on them from time to time, but I've found cheaper formulas that I really like. I'm all inclusive when it comes to foundation. Lately, I've been putting more attention (and money) into my skincare regime, and you know what? Better skin usually means better foundation performance, even the 'cheap' stuff. Anyhow...

Look forward to seven days of the ever mystical, 'I always look this flawless' inducing, liquid (most commonly, at least...) miracle they call foundation! What's your foundation of choice?

Avon Ideal Flawless Foundation

I think it's safe to say that well have at least one foundation in our stash that isn't the right shade for us. I know that I had more than I wanted to admit. I say had, because I had a foundation clear out. I got rid of  all the odds and ends and dust collectors. Except anything over $20. That really only left one foundation, I should have returned it after I brought it home, but I didn't use it right away, and yeah. I assumed it worked. Bad, I know. I decided I ought to get one decent foundation in a very light colour to have on hand for blending. I find I usually don't end up with foundations too light; they're usually just a bit too dark. Having a very light foundation on hand for a bit of customizing seemed ideal.

I didn't intend on choosing Avon's Ideal Flawless, but when I saw it on sale I couldn't help remembering I'd heard great things about it. So, why not?

Design Malfunctions

When I was in seventh grade I went to a birthday party. Well, I went to more than one, but one in particular sticks in my mind. Now, it wasn't the actual happenings of the party that I remember most; it was something one might deem as small and insignificant, but it resonated with me at the time. The friend who's birthday it was, had a cousin who was a year older than us, but he lived near by and was at the party. We were all used to him and got along was well, but he must have been told to be extra nice to all of us, since he was getting everyone pop. When I made my request, I ended up changing my mind, and in doing so a few of my friends did as well. This caused our waiter of the moment to utter something to the extent of 'make up your minds' to which the birthday girl's father replied "They can't help it, they're women." He was only joking, but I guess I was at an impressionable stage, because I've always remembered that moment when I get particularly confused regarding decisions. Thanks, Gary.

Bourjois Healthy Balance Unifying Powder

Most women will likely say that their interest in makeup started from watching their mothers. For me, it was my Nan. Sure, I saw my Mom apply mascara, eyeliner and shadow from time to time, and on special occasions blush, but it was my Nan who wore foundation and powder. I was enamored with her little porcelain pot that held her translucent powder. Because of that, I always wore powder. It was just what one did. Granted, my prone to being dry skin doesn't always need powder; something I came to learn over the years.

Lately though, I've been either skipping powder all together, or only using it to set my concealer. How did I end up with Bourjois Healthy Balance Unifying Powder then? I saw it on a blog and had to have it! My review of Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation has been so popular, I figured you might want a peek at the powder as well... Maybe?

MUA Immaculate Collection Palette

A couple weeks ago I stumbled up a coupon code for MUA that offered not only 35% off but free shipping as well. Not wanting to miss out on free international shipping (which can add up mighty fast) I took that as an opportunity to haul a few of the Nail Constellations (post soon!) I realized that I didn't have much in my cart, so I threw in an eyeshadow palette. Can't go wrong with a few more eyeshadows.... can you?

Christmas Wishes 2012

I think my Holiday Meter must be low, because it still does not feel like holidays to me. At all. Maybe it's the lack of snow, but with 20 days until the day, I just don't feel festive at all.

The only thing I feel I can get behind this season, is a little shopping- seriously, when can one not get behind a bit of shopping? Thing is, my clan isn't exactly doing gifts this year. There are only a few of us, and we're spread all about, so by the time we shop, package and ship things, it ends up being a waste of money. We decided to just gift ourselves a little something and save all the hassle. Thing is, since my Dad and Nan passed away last year, we just don't feel the warm fuzzies around this time. One day we will again, and it will be great, I'm sure. It just isn't quite right yet.

But, that's enough Debbie Downer. I love a good wish list, and wishing is a pretty important component of the holidays, really, so I compiled a few of the top items I'd love to see... Well there is no tree, so just plop them wherever you'd like!

Lush Holiday Soap- Snowcake, Snow Globe, Mr. Punch and Northern Lights

When I was younger, I remember my Nan getting my Dad soap-on-a-rope (Old Spice, if memory serves correct...) almost every year for Christmas. That got me thinking that you just don't see enough soap-on-a-rope anymore, but then that also go me thinking that maybe, nobody really needs soap-on-a-rope.... Maybe I just think about soap too much? I can't help it though, I've been busy suds-ing it up with a few of Lush's holiday/seasonal soaps!

Take a look!

Polish Days December: Bling

Polish Days are here again! Polish Days is a project started by Polly Polish that brings bloggers together by participating in a themed mani day each month. I've wanted to participate for some time now, but I was never organized enough to get my *coughs* S...ugar together on time.

This month's theme is a theme, I think, everyone can thoroughly enjoy: Bling! From subtle to full on blinding, everyone can appreciate a little sparkle every now and then.

Polish Inventory: NYX Girls Nail Polish

You don't really see a lot of NYX Girls polishes on the blogosphere anymore. Actually, you don't see much NYX period, but still, they do have some pretty great polishes. I tend to buy all of my NYX from Beauty Joint, as they have pretty much every product and at a lower price than anywhere else. I am in no way affiliated with them, they just happen to be my favourite NYX source.

NYX has three nail polish lines: Mattes, Salon and Girls. I don't see the Girls collection on their official website anymore, so it is a possibility that the Salon range has replaced it, but I also haven't heard anything about the Girls range being on it's way out, but who knows. The Salon polishes are housed in bottles strikingly similar to those of Deborah Lippman polishes, but as Beauty Joint doesn't carry them, I've yet to try any and no local drugstores carry NYX here.

Anyway, NYX Girls polishes are pretty great, especially at their $3 (give or take) price range. I mainly started off with their glitters, because it's such an inexpensive way to try shades you may only wear a few times, but there is no lack of quality and they do have some beautiful shades. I always manage to find a couple more to add to my stash...

Skin Food Deep Sea Water Brightening Multi Toner

I'm on the fence about toners... I've used them on and off for years, but I've never really felt that they were a necessary step. If I have one to use, great, if not, no biggie. Of course, being the type that enjoys using product 'just to try it' I buy toners when ever one piques my interest, but are they important?

After a bit of research (ie. Googling) one would assume I now have a certain answer to that question. The thing is, now I'm more confused than ever. A lot of folks side that yes, toner is an essential step in skincare. That camp even clams that after washing your skin you are removing an essential layer (or film, as put) that takes up to two hours to regenerate. Without this layer, your skin is unprotected and doesn't know what to do with products you likely apply after cleansing (serums, moisturizers, etc.) BUT, use of a toner instantly regenerates this film. Sounds relatively convincing... Except there is a whole other camp that believes toners just don't do all of the wondrous things they claim. Confused yet?

CLOSED Farley Co. Holiday Giveaway!

Last week, the opportunity came along to host a pretty fabulous giveaway sponsored by the even more fabulous people at Farley Co. I couldn't pass that up! I got to select, what I think, are some pretty great prizes for all of my amazing Canadian readers. Unfortunately, this one is for the Canadian ladies only, but I am planning another giveaway for the new year that will be all inclusive. To the winners of my last giveaway, I still have your prizes, don't fear, they'll be in the mail asap.

Anyhow, enough chatter, let's get to the goods and how you can enter!

Avon Cream Eyeshadow

When I was in 7th grade, the majority of my friends were not allowed to wear makeup yet. My mom on the other hand, was cool like that and made me a little makeup bag of 'mom approved' items. I had free range when it came to what adorned my lips- I learned the art of perfect lipstick from my Nan at the tender age of four. Anyhow, she picked out my very first mascara, brown eyeliner, and two cream eyeshadows. One, a slightly minty green and the other, a mid toned lilac, and happened to be from Avon. Both were shimmery, but not frosty, and they were the envy of all my friends. Many a mornings, during first recess, the little pots were passed around and shared by at least six girls. I know everyone washed their hands but still, looking back, it was the stupidest thing to share... but we had all survived the great lollipop sharing trend of the previous year so we were pretty close on a germ to germ level. What I'm getting at, is the fact that Avon Cream Eyeshadows hit a nostalgic note with me, so when I saw that they were being introduced again, I had to try a couple.

Clarins One-Step Facial Cleanser

This is where I usually have some sort of witty repartee that eventually becomes an intro to whatever it is I'm going to review, but you know what? I've got nothing. Nuttin', you could even say. So, I'll regale you a little bit of my day. It wasn't the most thrilling of days, but it did see me head off to the particular area of hell most commonly known as a 'grocery store.'

My new favourite thing (well, one of them...) is trying to get the absolute most while still staying on a budget. I check the flyers, make a list, and use the calculator on my phone as I shop. I don't know why I never thought of it sooner. Anyhow, my budget today was $130, as the cupboards/fridge were so bare... well I can't seem to think of how to finish that, but trust me, there were very few tasty eats on hand. Long and short (well, the long because I can't seem to write anything short...) By my calculations, I had $129.99 in my cart, talk about down to the last few pennies. With tax - I am so proud of this as, someone who is amazing at setting budgets and then never sticking to them- my grand total was *drumroll* $130.40!!! I wanted to do a little dance at the register!

Okay, onto some Clarins, shall we?

Chanel Sublimage Essential Comfort Cleanser

For the past eight weeks, I've been blind testing a few items for Elle Canada. The testing period has ended and I'm now free to unwrap the products I've been using- you see, they come wrapped the world's stickiest, holographic sticker. It is ridiculously hard to remove, but it's the only way to see 'what you're working with'.

Before I unwrapped Chanel's Sublimage Essential Comfort Cleanser, I knew I didn't like it (more on that soon) which is one reason I enjoy blind testing- you can't go into it with preconceived notions based on the brand. Had I known that this cleanser was Chanel (seriously? I didn't even know they did skincare) and that it was quite pricey, my opinions likely would have been a bit skewed.

Advertise with IKATW

With the freshening up done (what do you think? better?) I've added a bit of space for some sponsorship opportunities.

As my blog has seen quite a bit of growth the past few months, I'd like to share some of the love. Currently, there are six spots, which I'd like to fill with your buttons, but if enough people show an interest, there is room for a bit of growth. For all the details and how you can get in on the action, click here.

I'm really excited to be able to offer the space, and hopefully boost some of your lovely blogs!

Please Mind the Mess!

source

As the title says, mind the mess, please! I've been thinking of some possible changes/upgrades and decided I'd never know if they'd work if I didn't give them a try! 

Things should be back to normal soon... I hope! If you're a blogger as well I'm sure you know the stressful/fun redesign can be.

Boots No.7 Quick Thinking 4 in 1 Wipes

It's not that often that I buy face specific wipes. I usually buy baby wipes in bulk. I really only use wipes to clean up after swatches and to remove the bulk of my makeup before I use an eye makeup remover and then cleanse my face, so all the 'skincare' ingredients in specialty face wipes aren't really a necessity for me. Buut, when I was browsing my newly expanded Shopper's Drug Mart, my eye spotted the Boots No.7 (or just No. 7 in North America) display. I didn't know exactly what I wanted ( I hadn't done my research yet!) so I opted to get a package of their Quick Thinking Wipes. It didn't hurt that they might have been on sale...

Stuff It!.... Stockings, that is!

Christmas is approaching... I am never all entirely organized when it comes to my shopping, but really who is? One thing I always seem to be on track with are stocking stuffers! Since I was in high school, stocking responsibilities have been mostly mine. I shopped for stuffers, stuffed them and placed them in the appropriate spot. You see, we like to really pack our stockings full, so they could never really hang. Instead, they're loving placed in the recipient's Christmas morning seat.

Now, there are rules when it comes to stockings (at least in our family, there are.) We tend to not go for 'crap'. Of course there can be exceptions, but for the most part we try to keep stocking goodies to things that are actually going to be used and enjoyed. We also set a price limit. Anything over $15-$20 does not belong in a stocking. It just doesn't! I get slightly baffled when I see  $50 items on 'Stocking Stuffer' lists. That's a full on gift in my book.

I've compiled a few of my picks for the perfect stocking, and a couple goodies you can pick up for yourself when you're out and about. Just tell everyone they're from Santa! That is also a tradition in our house, you can totally cheat and get yourself a little something IF you wrap it and make that it came from the jolly one.

China Glaze Swing Baby

I kind of stalk nail polish collections. I tend to know what collections are coming out when and I usually know ahead of time which shades need to be mine. Of course, from time to time a polish or two slips by. China Glaze Swing Baby is one of those polishes.

Yves Rocher Apple Delight

Every year Yves Rocher introduces limited edition scents for the holidays. In the past I've managed to talk myself out of 'sampling' them; I still regret not trying last year's Orange & Amande. This year, the main collection is a sweet floral that didn't exactly call to me, but the secondary collection, Apple Delight, described as being a warm vanilla-apple blend... Well, I just had to try that for myself.

OPI Spring/Summer 2013: Euro Centrale

OPI Announces the Launch of Euro Centrale for Spring/Summer 2013

Classic meets contemporary with Euro Centrale by OPI for Spring/Summer 2013. Celebrating a region where history meets modern design, the collection’s twelve new nail lacquers offer a mixture of glamorous metallic hues; playful bright shades in periwinkle, aqua and pink; and creamy blues in indigo, midnight and aubergine.

“Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Romania make up an exciting new fashion hotspot,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director.  “When visiting these countries, you’ll view Gothic churches alongside vibrant graffiti murals, blending two very different aesthetics. This fusion of old and new was also seen in runway looks during New York Fashion Week, where classic styles were reinvented with modern silhouettes and patterns.

“Euro Centrale boasts a wide variety of shades, ranging from pale nude to deep blue – and featuring everything from shimmering copper to aqua in between!,” continues Weiss-Fischmann. “Whether you’re looking to spice up a black and white print, or add neutrality to a vivid brocade, these lacquers are designed to accessorize spring’s hottest looks.

Euro Centrale by OPI includes the following shades (bottle shots after the jump!)

mark. Lipclick Luxe Lipstick- Pink Icing

If forced to sum up holiday cosmetics in one word, I think that word would have to be glitter. It seems to be the common thread in most (if not all) holiday releases. I can definitely get behind glitter bomb nail polish, a bit of shimmer on the eyes can be fun too, but what I normally don't love are shimmery/glittery lipsticks. Then I saw the newest additions to mark's Lipclick range (which are all kinds of fabulous), and I thought I might just have to give them a try, glitter and all.

Yves Rocher Illuminating Pearls

There is something about products made up of little bits (or balls) that has always enamored me.  I have yet to splurge on 'that brand' that is famous for their little balls of cosmetic goodness, but I do tend to take the bait when the item is a more wallet friendly price.

The latest product to catch my eye happened to Yves Rocher Illuminating Pearls. These pearls (a much classier term than 'little balls') are a setting powder/ highlight hybrid that promise to ease complexion dullness that often lingers in the winter months.

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri- Petal Pusher

Sometimes, I see a polish, and instantly know I HAVE TO HAVE IT. It stays on my mind until it ends up on my nails. Petal Pusher was one of those polishes. I know, it doesn't look like anything all that special, but the polish loving heart wants what it wants.

Polish Inventory: Essie

Continuing on with the quest to inventory my polish stash (click here for previous posts) is a brand that is irresistible to many, and beloved by... well pretty much all: Essie!

I haven't been collecting Essie as long as some of the other brands in my collection, but the fact that I always seem to bring them home in pairs- seriously, I find it impossible to only buy one Essie at a time- my stash has grown rather quickly. 

One thing about Essie that I quite like, are their minis sets. When collections are released you can pick up cubes four to six minis. I've never actually finished a bottle of coloured polish, so being able to pick up a whole collection (or the bulk of it, they don't always include every shade in the cubes) at a lower price than full size bottles is a great option. Their mini's don't scrimp in quality either, the brushes are full sized, and apply just as well as their full size counterparts, annnd, the bottles are labeled in the same manner as well (a complaint many have with other brands' mini bottles is usually the lack of labeling).

Anyhow, onto the polish!

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Dark Circle Eraser Treatment Concealer- Brightener

Everyone knows the magic a good concealer can do, but lately I've been more interested in brighteners. Most do conceal a bit, but it's the way a brightener... well, brightens the under eye area; diffusing shadows and hinting at a full eight hour sleep that you likely didn't get.

It started here, and then there was this one, and this, and now I've discovered yet another, that is quite a gem once you get past the mouthful of a name. Interested?

Zoya Ornate Collection- Holiday 2012

This afternoon I set out to swatch the amzingness that is Zoya's Ornate Collection. Seriously, there are some pretty great scattered holos, some foils and even a glitter top coat... anyway, I swatched my heart out and then went about my day. I just sat down to organize and edit my photos to see that while I swatched six polishes, I only photographed five. Yes, I swatched one, admired it, and then took it off. Do you see the step that I skipped?

Maybe it's finally happened... the polish fumes have gotten to the essential brain cells and are wreaking havoc? Possibly, but it's worth it for these! Let's take a look...

Lip Love: Avon Glazewear Shine- Peach Fizz

Today marks a special day on IKATW... a new 'series' of posts. I often find myself enamored with a lip product (be it gloss, balm or stick) but feel a bit silly rambling on about one little product, especially if isn't new. To remedy that, I'll be periodically posting my Lip Loves. Little posts about my current, well... Lip Love!

Also, a bit of follow up to my Google storage woes: If your photos are 800x800 (or smaller) your photo doesn't count towards your total storage used. Hazah! I've tested out smaller photos, and everything still looks great, so I'm all set. Good to know if you're a Blogger hosted blog.

Onto the gloss though!

Lush Popcorn Lip Scrub

I set out to write this post in the same manner I do every post, but, you know what happened? I seem to have run out of storage. I've heard it could happen, but after almost three years of posting HUGE photos, I just assumed that that was urban blogger legend. Not so... So, for now I'll be hosting my photos on Photobucket. I'm just not sure if I want to pay Google for more storage. Ugh. Anyhow, let's put that unsettling moment behind us and try to focus on the present. The salty, sweet, popcorn scented present that is Lush Popcorn Lip Scrub.

What's in my Travel Bag... Makeup

Since I shared my skin care travel necessities, it only makes sense that I follow up with my makeup bag. I'll be spending the bulk of the week cozy at home, so I didn't really even need a makeup bag, but I find it's often a nice waste of time and a pick me up to play with a bit of makeup even if only to amuse one's self, so I packed a few of the items of I've been loving lately and would actually use....Maybe.

Unrelated (sort of...) but I've started linking products to their perspective sites to make it easier if you'd like more info or would like to purchase something. If I can find it online, the link will be under the photos. Hopefully things a little easier for everyone! P.s it's rainbow too (when you hover)!  

What's in my Travel Bag... Skin Care

This week, I'll be blogging from a new and fabulous location; no, I haven't jetted off to a tropical locale, but I am house/cat sitting. The cat, Emma, isn't the most personable, but she's only hissed at me once (so far) so things seem to be going well.

Since I don't get many opportunities to travel, I thought now would be the perfect chance to give you a peek into my travel bags. First we'll take a peek in my skin care bag, and if you behave, we might even take a gander into my makeup bag a little later on. The boring bits (Clarisonic, toothbrush and paste, etc.) have already been removed. You're welcome. Anyhow, let's take a look...

Tilth Beauty Anti-Aging Firming Moisture Cream and A Flawless Serum

I remember a time, when I wasn't all that enthused by skincare. Sure, I used makeup remover, cleanser and moisturizer, but it was more out of necessity than interest. In the past couple years though, I find myself getting quit excited about new cleansers, serums, toners... you name it and I want to know about it.

Over the past few weeks I've been using a new brand (new to me at least); Tilth Beauty. I've been testing out their Anti-Aging Firming Moisture Cream and A Flawless Serum. While I'm not so sure I need all the anti-aging properties of the moisturizer quite yet, I have been loving how great my skin looks and feels (maybe that's them working...?)

Pretty Serious: They Came from Beyond Space!

If you regularly read IKATW, you know I rarely post press release type info, but for the newest collection from Pretty Serious 'They Came from Beyond Space!' I'm making an exception.

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away...

Just kidding.

Zooming in from the furthest reaches of the darkest corners of the cosmos, Pretty Serious Cosmetics is proud to unveil our newest mini collection: THEY CAME FROM BEYOND SPACE!

(images after the jump!)

Mo Sistas are Doin' it for Themselves!

During the course of the month of November,Mo Bros are encouraged to “change the face of men’s health” by growing a moustache. It engages men in the concept of raising awareness of their own health issues and serves as a creative and innovative way to raise funds for research, education and continuing awareness. In their journey, Mo Bros have engaged “Mo Sistas”, women who support the Movember movement by offering their solidarity to the men in their lives who are growing a moustache during the month of November. Whether they are our fathers, our boyfriends, our husbands, our bosses, our colleagues, our fellow students or our brothers,Mo Sistas are surrounded by men. Annabelle is inviting all their Mo Sistas fans and cosmetic users to dress the part: put on a moustache this November for Movember!

As you likely know, November has been taken over by Movember, wherein men grow their 'staches to raise awareness and support men's health issues; specifically prostate cancer and male mental health.

This year, Annabelle has teamed up with the cause and wants us ladies to participate. Since we can't grow our own mo (well, skip a few waxings/Nair sessions and you just never know....) I opted to use my Annabelle Smudge Liner in 'Oh My Goth!' to get the job done.

To participate, simply snap a photo of your lovely lip decor and upload it to your Pinterest board using the #AnnabelleMovember tag in the description so Annabelle can add it to their Mo Sistas board. Don't forget to include which Annabelle product you used to create the look! For each photo added, Annabelle will donate $1 to the cause. Check out the current collection of lady 'staches here. Will you be participating?

Polish Inventory: Julep

Firstly, holy woah, 800(+) followers! Very exciting considering I remember the early days wondering if anybody was even reading my posts. Hello to all my new followers as well! Leave me a comment if you're from a hop and I'll be sure to follow everyone back just as soon as possible. Back to your regularly slightly-scheduled post:

Part three of my polish inventory (part one and part two) brings us Julep. To be honest, I didn't quite realize how many Julep polishes I had... they sort of creep up on you. I'm sure most know about Julep's Maven* program? It's a nail polish subscription service that ships you an assortment of products and polish each month. I think (think?) it's the only service dedicated to nail polish.

I love the aesthetics of Julep polishes; their elongated, rectangular bottles are quite stylish. Add to that the numerous shades and finishes available and you've pretty much got any polish lovers dream. But, enough of my chatter, let's take a look-see at my hoard collection.

Cutest Find... Ever!

Just a fast one for now, but I had to share this cute little guy that recently came into my life. While it isn't officially branded, it's meant to be a Lots-O-Huggin type bear. So cute, and the best part...

He's an 8g flash drive! Best $8 ever spent? Quite possibly! Have you bought anything that makes you smile lately?

EDIT: okay, I'm having some issues with my comment system (Intense Debate has been disappearing and reappearing whenever it wants lately...) I love your comments though and am working to get everything back in working order as soon as possible! AND if you'd like to get your own Lots-O he can still be found here!

Origins GinZing Eye Cream

I feel kind of like a... big old liar. I've realized that as someone who claims to be indifferent when it comes to eye creams, I've reviewed at least a handful already and have another to add to the list. That, and I quite like this one. I'm not sure I recognize myself anymore...

Mood Bling

Whilst rummaging through my email, I came across an interesting offer from The Bay: For just $10 you can purchase a really cute mood ring and support Partners for Mental Health. I have a fondness for mood rings so this was quite exciting to me, but the fact that 30% of proceeds will being going to organizations dedicated to supporting those with mental health issues, change public attitude towards mental health and raising overall awareness is pretty amazing as well.

The limited edition mood ring is available in store at The Bay and online. 

Recent Favourites I

Some months ago, I decided to abandon 'monthly favourites' posts. A month just passes too fast, and I often found it was stressful trying to pin point what I wanted to showcase. Also, I usually hadn't reviewed everything on it's own yet, and then I'd blab away too much in a favourites post. You know?

So, from now on, I'll post my 'recent favourites' whenever the mood strikes. Like now. Let's take a look!

Milani Amber Nectar Illuminating Face Powder

Ah, Sunday... the laziest day of the week. I've spent mine lazing about, reading, drinking milky tea, slow roasting a farm fresh chicken (one of the perks of living in a small-ish town) that is now a giant pot of matzoh ball soup. This evening, I plan on watching Practical Magic for what is likely the 867th time and maybe pop a bit of popcorn. Quite possibly a perfect day!

As busy as I've been, I even managed to edit a few photos and thought I could probably squeeze a bit of blogging in to my hectic day. Care to take a look?

DIY: Nail Polish Phone Case

Last year, when I got my new phone, I picked up two bejeweled cases. One in a multi coloured design, the other in white/clear. I was all set for any situation- you know, the kind where it matters how your phone is accessorized.... Anyway, I ended up becoming a bit obsessed with covers for my phone, there were just too many options. That's when I got the bright idea to make my own (sort of...) using one of my all time favourite things: Nail Polish!