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Wednesday, March 30, 2011

I LIKE IT!! I LIKE IT!!

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Hello Beautiful Ones,

I know it's only been a few days since I've started this "new thing" but I have to admit that I've got some pretty strong feelings for it already. "For what", you might be asking. Oil cleansing.

I swear I've been a sitting skeptic on this for about a year now. Despite all the talk, I expected to see pimples & blemishes galore if I tried it out. But alas, I had to let my reservations go and at least give it a try. Its been about 4 days since I've started and I have yet to see any of the negative things that I expected. Of course, I was thinking that cleaning my face with oil would only clog up my pores. Boy was I wrong. Did you know that you can use this against acne? Damn, I'm late.

I'm so glad I began to try it. I'm very pleased with the results thus far. And what I'm loving most about oil cleansing is that it's an effective, chemical-free way to remove makeup. Including waterproof makeup. Yes.

So let me share with you the oil cleansing method per the Oil Cleansing Method site.

We will need two oils. The first, and most importantly, is Castor Oil. If you don't have this medicine cabinet staple already, it can be found online or in the laxative section of your grocer or drugstore - usually bottom shelf. Castor Oil has potent anti-inflammatory properties, but is also healing and cleansing, which is why we're focusing on this oil as our primary oil. Castor Oil has been the focus of many books and medical discussion because of its seemingly "magical" healing properties. As quoted in The Oil That Heals by Dr. McGarey, he states, "Castor oil will leave the body in better condition than it found it." Though it may be our most important oil, we won't be using it in the amounts that we will the other oil (or combination of oils for those who want to take this a step further). A little bit of Castor Oil goes a long way and too much will leave you, surprisingly, with dry skin.

Castor Oil


Since Castor Oil is so thick and its cleansing properties so strong, we need to dilute it with another oil, thinner in consistency, but no less nurturing to the skin. Sunflower Seed Oil has become my personal favorite, though in the past, I've suggested Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Both are wonderfully caring oils for skin application, but I've found that Sunflower Seed Oil has a more luxurious feel for massage. It sinks into the skin better, aiding the castor oil in transportation deep into the pores and allowing it to draw the dirt and grime to the surface of your skin where it can be wiped away. The essential fatty acids, though they are not naturally occurring in the body, are a necessity for the health of our cell membranes. These acids help restore the skins natural moisture balance and help prevent unnecessary dryness. The secondary oil that you choose is entirely up to you and should be determined by your skins needs and the properties of that oil. Choose from natural, cold-pressed vegetable oils, as these have nutrients, vitamins, and fatty acids that mineral oil and other refined oils don't. You may even have these oils in your kitchen, as they're used for cooking, as well! For the sake of explaination, from this point on, we'll say "Sunflower Seed Oil" in place of "Secondary Oil." Remember that Sunflower Seed Oil may be replaced by your vegetable oil of choice.


The Oil Cleansing Method



First and foremost, this is typically done in the evening, prior to bed. There should be no need for deep cleansing in the morning if you're waking up with skin cleansed the night before. In the morning, a quick wipe with a warm washcloth should suffice. We don't want to overcleanse our skin as this will serve only to irritate and cause more oil production. The objective of using this method is to deep clean while balancing our skins oil production at the same time.




You'll need a soft washcloth, your oil blend, and hot, running water.


Pour a generous puddle of oil into the palm of your hand. Roughly, the size of a quarter, but more is acceptable. Rub your hands together to warm the oil and smooth over your face.


Begin massaging the oil into your face. This will remove makeup, dirt, and other impurities, so there is no need to use a makeup remover or wash your face prior to the massage. I've found that this removes even my stubborn waterproof mascara and concealor.


Using slow, firm motions across the skin, massage the oil deeply into your pores. Take your time and focus on your problem areas. You want the oil to work into your pores so that blackheads and the like can be dissolved and steamed away.


As you're massaging, let your mind drift off to something calming and breathe deeply. Take this time to relax and release some of the stress that your body is harboring. Sit down, breathe deeply, and take your time. Give the oil enough time to work on dissolving the impurities in your pores and give yourself enough time to unwind. Picture what your face would look like if it were completely clear and free from blemishes. Focus on that image and know that it is attainable. Trust that it is attainable. Accept that it is attainable. You can have clear skin, free of blemishes and you will have clear skin, free of blemishes. Focus on perfect skin and breathe deeply.


Once you're satisfied that your pores are saturated and you're feeling calm, pick up your washcloth and soak it in clean, steamy water. We want the water to be warm enough to open your pores and remove the oil. Cool water will not open your pores, nor will it remove the oil efficiently. We're not scalding our skin, we're steaming to coax our pores to release the oil carrying the impurities. We're essentially steaming our skin as an esthetician would, but without the luxury of a steam machine.
hot towel example
Hold the washcloth to cover your face. Allow it to stay until it cools. You will feel your pores releasing the impurities. Wipe the oil gently away and rinse the washcloth well in hot, running water. Hold the washcloth to your face again, allowing it to cool. Wipe gently, rinse well, and repeat two or three more times. Avoid any temptation to scrub, as you'll find it's completely unnecessary and your skin will be soft, smooth, and free of flakes without the additional manual exfoliation and irritation that will result. Impurities, dead skin cells, and bacteria will be gently swept away.


Have no fear of the oil, as the steamy washcloth will remove it. The Castor Oil, though it is an oil, will help with the removal of the other oils, as well. It is our main cleansing oil and is easily removed with warm water.




If your skin feels tight, take a tiny drop of your oil blend, rub it between your clean, damp palms and pat it onto your damp skin. Gently massage any oil residue into your skin so there is no film of oil left sitting on the surface. Your skin should now glow!


Some suggestions for your own personal blend:

Oily Skin: Try a blend of 30% Castor Oil to 70% Sunflower Seed Oil.

Balanced Skin: Try a blend of 20% Castor Oil to 80% Sunflower Seed Oil.

Dry Skin: Try a blend of 10% Castor Oil to 90% Sunflower Seed Oil.


If you've been hip to this longer than I have, please share with us how long, what oils you use and any other info you'd like to add.





Post Title I LIKE IT!! I LIKE IT!!

Finding a Perfect Bridal Gown For Your Special Day


Finding a Perfect Bridal Gown For Your Special Day
Looking great with a beautiful dress down the aisle is the wish of every woman. With a big variety of wedding gowns available in the market place, you are sure to find a style that fits perfectly for your big day. Here are some important considerations you need to keep in mind when picking your wedding dress.
First of all, make sure to think about what you really want to wear on your marriage day. Do you want to get an ankle length V-neck bridal gown or a tea-length round-neck wedding dress? You should determine the style carefully in order to get a catchy gown that makes you look fabulous on your wedding ceremony. Color is another essential factor you can not ignore for it can completely change your whole look. Be sure to choose the right color for your bridal gown. Dresses of the same color may seem brilliant on one person while look plain on the different individual. So bear in mind to select a color that suits your tasted and enhances your look.
After choosing the style and color of your wedding began, you also should focus on its appurtenances such as gloves, wrinkles and ornaments. This is because some gowns appear truly fine on the model but look totally different when they are worn by the brides. Check the details carefully so that you can get a perfect dress.
Finally, remember to purchase a style you feel comfortable to wear. Make sure to select quality fabrics offering great comfort and buy a gown in your size. You are able to enjoy your special day by wearing a perfect wedding dress.

Post Title Finding a Perfect Bridal Gown For Your Special Day

Say Goodbye to Frumpy Bridesmaid Dresses

It seems to be an American cliché: hideous, baglike bridesmaid dresses in a range of putrid colors from sea foam green to dirt brown. Fortunately for millions of current and potential bridesmaids of the future, the trend of the frumpy, formless bridesmaid dress is over. Here are a few stand out bridesmaids dresses that will be a pleasure for your bridal party to don on your special day and beyond.
Crinkle Chiffon Dress with Charmeuse Inset
For a classic and simple yet elegant gown that will satisfy every member of your bridal party, you can't go wrong with this fabulous Crinkle Chiffon Dress with Charmeuse Inset gown. The empire silhouette of this lovely gown provides a high waistline that is flattering to nearly ever figure.
A lightweight, shimmery satin flourish at the bust also helps draw the eye upward while the full length skirt extends to the ankles. This attractive number is nice enough to wear again and again and is available in 11 vibrant colors to match your wedding theme.
Long Chiffon Dress with Removable Flower Detail
For another figure flattering gown with a traditional design, consider the Long Chiffon Dress with Removable Flower Detail. Again exhibiting a classic empire waist style, this flowing gown features a modest sweetheart neckline with a ruched flourish that creates a bit of drama while drawing the eye upward.
Further interest is created by a subtle flower detail that can be removed easily according to your preferences. This strapless dress is executed in chiffon and creates a look that is suitable for either formal or more casual ceremonies. The gown is available in 12 striking colors for lots of versatility.
Strapless Chiffon A-Line Dress
If the empire silhouette is not exactly the style you had in mind, perhaps this lovely Strapless Chiffon A-Line Dress is more your speed. Yet another flattering number, this gown combines classic and modern elements and features an A-line silhouette, which suits most figures well.
A charmeuse band at this gown's waist emphasizes your bridesmaids' natural hourglass figures while an eye catching pleated bust and skirt create interest and add a touch of femininity. This strapless gown sports a modest neckline and is especially suitable for springtime weddings. It is available in a wide palette of 20 colors.
Short Chiffon A-Line Dress
For an outdoor or modern wedding ceremony, this fabulous Short Chiffon A-Line Dress makes a lovely impression. Crafted from chiffon, this jaunty dress features a halter neckline, pleated bust and high banded waistline that draws attention upward and enhances an hourglass figure.
This decidedly modern look features a slightly flared skirt that ends at the knees, creating a very summery look. A dress your bridesmaids will wear again and again, this model is available in 36 beautiful colors.
A-Line Satin Strapless Gown
For a wedding with a more formal theme, consider this gorgeous A-Line Satin Strapless Gown. The sleek look of this gown's satin construction provides a perfectly feminine complement to a figure flattering A-Line silhouette, featuring a high waist that is set apart by a wide ruched band.
These pleated bust and sweetheart neckline of this strapless piece work to create interest toward the torso while the elegantly flowing skirt creates a look that is close to a classic ball gown. This formal gown is available in an expansive palette of 36 colors and will let your entire bridal party look their very best on your wedding day.
Chiffon Blouson Spaghetti Strap Separates
For casual weddings and more elegant affairs alike, don't be afraid of choosing a deft pairing of separates for your bridal party's ensemble. This gorgeous Chiffon blouson top and long sleek skirt prove that separates can offer a truly head turning look. The flowing top is finished with delicate spaghetti straps, adding some feminine flair while the slim fitted skirt offers a beautiful counterpoint.
Long Satin Dress
Finally, if you just can't seem to find a gown to settle on, try the somewhat blank canvas of this lovely long satin dress. This lovely yet simple gown was designed to offer room for plenty of personalization. It is punctuated by a strap sweetheart neckline, fitted bodice and flared skirt for a classic look. Consider adding a sash, belt or more adventurous flourishes to complete the ensemble.
Beautiful and elegant dresses like these go a long way toward proving the point that the era of the frumpy bridesmaid gowns have gone the way of the polyester leisure suit. With a bit of time and consideration, you can be sure that every member of your bridal party is looking beautiful and feeling that way on your special day. Take a moment to find that perfect gown now!

Post Title Say Goodbye to Frumpy Bridesmaid Dresses

short hair styles

Cute, short haircuts are all the rage this summer season as they can go from day to night, from the beach to the office in a flash. While styling cute short haircuts and seeking a look that is right for…

Post Title short hair styles

Sunday, March 27, 2011

GOOD NEWS MONDAY AFFIRMATIONS

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The Universe supports me.

The Universe provides for me.

Whatever I need is always there for me.



{{Hugs}},

Post Title GOOD NEWS MONDAY AFFIRMATIONS

2011 Long Hairstyles


The long hairstyle 2011 is very renowned in the today's lifestyle which can give the gorgeous look. The best to make the long hairstyle with long layers with more amount of texture give the greater concentration to others. Endless styling options are available for girls who have long hair. You need to find out a long hairstyle that works well for you. Factors such as the shape of your face and texture of your hair must be taken into account. Here are some easy school hairstyles for long hair. Long hairstyle makes the look more sexy and feminine. But in the long run they are difficult to maintain, take time to keep look good, else would go to be damaged if you don't take good care of them. It is far better to study to love your hair the way it looks naturally.
long wavy hairstyle 2011
long wavy hairstyle 2011
2011 long hairstyles with bangs
2011 long hairstyles with bangs
long hairstyles 2011
long hairstyles 2011
long hairstyles pictures
long hairstyles pictures
long hairstyles trends for 2011
long hairstyles trends for 2011
long straight hairstyles
long straight hairstyles
summer long wavy hairstyle 2011
summer long wavy hairstyle 2011

If you have fine hair, then you are very lucky since with this hair texture you can have almost any type of haircut and long hairstyle. Have straight bangs on your forehead is a must if you have oval shape face. This gives a very teeny look to your face and such hair can be styled in various ways. A pony with those bangs falling on the eyes looks quite trendy. Long hair has a lot of scope to have various layers and hence you can have a nice layered haircut. The most popular layered hairstyles for long hair is a blunt that turns towards the face. Such hair should be parted exactly in the middle with the hair turning inwards.

Long hairstyles pictures tags of this post: long wavy hairstyles 2011, 2011 long hairstyles with bangs, 2011 long hairstyles, long hairstyles trend 2011, long straight hairstyles.

Post Title 2011 Long Hairstyles

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

MY NEW FAV "SAMMICH"!!

Hi Gorgeous!


A few days ago, I started playing around with a veggie sandwich idea. I was craving a really good veggie sandwich. I tend to love sauteed portabello mushrooms w/red onions as a base for my veggie sandwiches, so I started with that in mind. I also wanted (and love) avocado's so I began to toy with the idea of using it as a spread instead of cutting it into chunks. I ended up coming up with something that is filling, healthy & very good on the taste buds.



I spreaded some ripe, mashed avocado onto a slice of Ezekiel sprouted bread. *Note: At this point, I'm only using one slice of bread. Two slices is way too much for me. I'm also toasting the bread.

I added a layer of baby spinach leaves on top of the avocado spread.


Please disregard the tomato on top. I was going for adding another element of taste to the sandwich but it just didn't work out to my liking. So since then, I've been leaving it off. I actually removed this tomato after taking my initial bite into "my sammich".



My pièce de résistance!
 I know this may look a mess. Well, it is! A deliciously messy sammich!! And yes, it really is a messy eat. Lol.

Oh, I forgot to mention that when sauteeing the ports & onions, I added 2 to 3 cloves of garlic and some Sun Fire salt to taste. Yummmm.....


And to top it off, I have me some Kombucha tea with it. Love this stuff!!

**Please note, I've made about 4 of these since making this initial sandwich pictured here. I would've taken a picture of them since they are exact to my description in this post. However, I (& everyone else) keeps eating them up.

Lol.

Post Title MY NEW FAV "SAMMICH"!!

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

AN UPDO THAT I'M FEELIN'

March 2011 Twist-Out Updo
What a funny angle. I discovered that I need an extra piece to my tripod so these photos are a result of me taking pics with one hand. Not fun. But I got it done.


Just sharing a simple twist-out updo that I've been wearing for about a week now. Working on mostly wearing protective styles to take better care of my ends.



It's not a perfect updo but I do like it. And by not perfect, I mean not every strand is in place. No. It's more of a "let's throw something together and see what comes of it as we go" updo. Either way, I like it.


earrings by Daisy Fuentes;Kohls
On top of which, its been going back and forth between warm & borderline hot and I hate having hair on my neck when it feels like that.




Note: I have several bobby pins, hair pins and two mini-combs (which you probably see 1 peeping out) to hold all of this together.


Hope the rest of your day is smart & lovely,
{{Hugs}},

Post Title AN UPDO THAT I'M FEELIN'

Sunday, March 20, 2011

GOOD NEWS MONDAY AFFIRMATIONS

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Every experience I have is perfect for my growth.

I rejoice in new growth. I leave reservations behind.

I view all experiences as opportunities for me to learn and grow.

I am gentle and kind with myself as I grow & evolve.



Have a wonderful week!


Post Title GOOD NEWS MONDAY AFFIRMATIONS

Friday, March 18, 2011

AID (and prayers) FOR JAPAN

Japan flag

It was late Friday night, in Orlando, when I got the news about Japan. Stunned, horrified and saddened to hear of, yet another, natural disaster hitting another country. This news is becoming all to familiar to hear.

So in today's post I've listed a couple of places (& provided a link to others) where you can donate to aid in relief funds (or time) for Japan.

InterAction.org

RedCross.org

Miss Moon over at Miss Moon's Musings also did a post that has an extensive list of resources that you can use to donate to Japan's recovery. Click here to read it.

Peace and blessings,

Post Title AID (and prayers) FOR JAPAN

Hair Updos

This year, updo hairstyles are blow-dried and simple. To create a similarly elegant look, ask you hairdresser to create an Audrey Hepburn hair updos that is loose and chic. This sort of style would go fantastically well with a 50s style wedding dress.The most evident hair updo trend this season is a messy, carefree style. While there is certainly less room for sloppiness at a wedding, the spirit behind this trend need not be abandoned when designing a wedding hair style. A sloppy or free-flowing hair style might be perfect for a beach wedding. Many brides are opting for looser, more whimsical styles over classic, tight or sleek updos. Many of the most popular updos at the moment feature loose hairs around the face, modified french twists and carefully orchestrated fly aways. Also, hair updos always look stunning in prom nights.

Hair Updos
Hair Updos

Wedding Hair Updos
Wedding Hair Updos

Black Wedding Hair Updos
Black Wedding Hair Updos

Braided Wedding Hair Updos
Braided Wedding Hair Updos

Hair Updos For Prom
Hair Updos For Prom

Long Hair Updos
Long Hair Updos

Medium Hair Updos
Medium Hair Updos

Prom Hairstyles Updos
Prom Hairstyles Updos

Prom Hair Updos
Prom Hair Updos

Short Hair Updos
Short Hair Updos

The updo style can take many forms and can make a woman look glamorous, elegant, chic and sexy. Many short hairstyles for women are contemporary and time tested styles, and you can easily adopt one of them when you spend some time thinking about what might suit you the best. It does not matter whether your hair is straight or curly as there are plenty of short hairstyles for women to choose from. Either visit a hairstylist, or do it yourself. You will amaze yourself with the possibilities.

Hair updos pictures tag of this post: hair updos, long hair updos, medium hair updos, short hair updos, prom hair updos, wedding hair updos, hair updos for prom, black braided hair updos, prom hairstyles updos.

Post Title Hair Updos

Thursday, March 17, 2011

MY INSPIRATION



Hi Gorgeous Ones!

My apologies for the lapse in blogging on a regular schedule. But after a weekend trip to Orlando full of running around and the drive back home to the ATL, I was pretty wiped out..... on Monday. Haha! Tuesday was more of a "playing hooky" day.

Anyhoo, I have been struggling with my workout. Yes. I. Have. So at this point, I'm having to just do it, instead of putting much thought into it. Hey... it's like that sometimes.

So in my search for inspiration, I remember Ernestine Shepherd, the 74-year old foxy ma who I absolutely would not be mad at if she got a man 40 or 50 years her junior. Just sayin'. Like Tony the Tiger, I have to say that she looks GGRRRREEAT.

She leaves me (and everyone else) absolutely no excuse. For God's sake, she's 74. No excuses. On top of which, she didn't get into working out until she was in her early 50's. Seriously, no excuses. Now most of us women have been groomed to believe that as we get older, we naturally put on more weight. And that as soon as we hit 40, it all goes to hell in a handbasket. As if its some natural order to our body's maturation. Well, looking at pics of  Mrs. Shepherd blows this myth out of the water.

Oh, and please know that when she started exercising in her fifties, she did not look like she does now. I've read that she started out pudgy. No excuses. So my point is that, it is indeed possible. Not just for all us gals who are in our 30's and beyond, but e-ver-ry-body.

And just for more inspirational/motivational kicks here are pics of a few other older women who are working it out and showin' it off.

Jennifer Lopez (mom of 2)- Academy Awards 2010

Halle Berry (mom of 1) - Jenesse Silver Rose Gala & Auction 2010
Salma Hayek (mom of 1) - Cannes 2010
Sally Richardson-Whitfield (mom of 2) - Syfy Upfront party 2010

Stacey Dash (mom of 2) - Vanity Fair Oscar party 2010
Are there are any women you know who inspire/motivate you who are still keeping it together?.....

Post Title MY INSPIRATION