Hey, MAC Me Over Danbury, CT!

As I was sitting at work thinking of all the things I had to purchase that night in preparation of the upcoming and so called Hurricane Irene, I suddenly remembered that I did not have anymore Foundation Powder that I use during my makeup routine every morning. I realized I would have to go all the way across town to MAC at the Mall. Really? It was either that or look like a hot mess tomorrow for work. I opted to drag my lazy ass out to get it after all. I was just going to get the groceries, drop them off home and then head to the mall to quickly go in and grab what I needed and leave. Or so I thought.

The grocery store was a horrible tiny little hell hole. Thankfully I only went to Stop & Shop and a quick stop to CVS to purchase my items. According to some people my places of attendance was a field day compared to some stores like Costco. Apparently people were at each others throats for the last of the water and non-perishable items. I understand the whole survivor instincts but GEESH PEOPLE! Get a grip!

Here is my experience at Stop & Shop. I should be so lucky!

Two cases of bottled water, a box of granola bars, strawberry eggos, capri suns, hummus and a bag of chips later I was finally done! Yippie! Sounds like i'm a real survivor huh? DON'T BE JEALOUS! I saved a lot of money by not going overboard with all this non-sense that everyone is scrambling to buy. Pfftt... puh lease. I get home, drop off the stuff and drive across town to the mall solely to go to MAC, buy my product and bounce. The whole way over the traffic was so ridiculous. You might have thought the whole world was coming to an end. Didn't help that it was a Friday either.

I finally arrived at the mall after fighting through the traffic in town. Hallelujah baby Jesus! I power walked to Macy's and headed straight for the MAC counter. I asked one of the girls at the counter for help and she got me exactly what I was looking for. She asked if I needed anymore help, and I politely said no. I was not about to stay at the mall any longer than I had to. I wanted to get in and out. I don't always like being at the mall. Especially after a long day at work. All I wanted was to go home and unwind.

I approached the front to purchase my foundation. I glanced down and peeped the shirt the associate was wearing. I noticed it had big bold white lettering on it that said "MAC Me Over". I remembered getting a postcard in the mail from MAC a few weeks back about free Makeovers that they were going to be doing. I asked the girl who was ringing me up at the register about the event and she told me it would unfortunately be ending tomorrow. She asked if I would like to do one right then but I shook my head no. At first I didn't want to because I figured it would be a waste of makeup. I thought about it for a second and decided it might not be a bad idea after all. If big bad Irene is "supposedly" starting tomorrow I probably wouldn't be able to make it over that way anyway. I quickly changed my mind and decided to give it a go just for fun.

I sat down in the chair, was handed a makeup remover wipe, and was instructed to remove all of my makeup that I had applied earlier on in the day. Upon removal I took one look in the mirror and realized how scary I must have looked. AHHH! How embarrassing. Oh well, ::shrugs:: she was going to make me look fabulous anyway. Right?

Just so you all know, the whole ordeal and experience was awesome. I felt completely pampered and at the same time I felt like I totally knew her for what seemed to be forever. She explained everything she was doing, she showed me everything she used and most importantly she picked products and colors that flattered my face. It was a great experience. I am definitely heading over there on payday to scope out the products she recommended they really looked great on me. I felt so pretty!

Here is the end result! Au' Natural. Ooh la la :)

Brow - Wedge & Bevile
Shadow - Seaside Cream Colour Base
Brow Highlighter - Creamy Bisque
Crease - Brown Script & Carbonized
Outer Lid - Arenre
Mascara - False Lashes
Liquid Foundation - NC15 Studio Fix Fluid
Concealer - NW20 Studio Finish
Powder Foundation - Mineralize Skinfinish Natural Medium
Blush - Melba
Bronzer - Mineralize Skinfinish in Medium Dark
Lipstick - Bare Again
Lipgloss - Pinkarat


After the MAC Makeover was finished I was talking with her and her co-worker about all sorts of things. It was cool to be able to connect and nice that we both stemmed from the Fashion & Beauty industry. Her name was Liz by the way. She was an outgoing, personable, and knowledgeable girl that really knew her stuff inside and out. Not only that but she made me feel very comfortable through out the makeover.

What I thought was really cool was that she was really into coming in for a Guest Artist spot where I work. Paul Mitchell the School has people from outside companies come in to demonstrate different techniques to give the Future Professionals a taste of something other than Paul Mitchell. There is a big talented world out there. It's only right we give them other opportunities as well.

Over all it was an awesome night! I gave her my blog address and hopefully she come to check out this rave review. HEY LIZ!

REVIEW: Sally Hansen Salon Effects

#250 Bling It On....

When it comes to painting my nails I leave it to the professionals.
I wasn't even going to bother to try these because I am so hopeless in this area but I decided to give it a try just for kicks!

I was doing a haul in Walmart and browsing in the Beauty section when I came across "Bling It On". Sparkly and pink? HECK YAH! Count me in. ;)

The one I originally wanted was the Zebra Print strips in "Wild Child" but they ran out. The next best one was this one "Bling It On" and to be honest this was probably the best option for my first try with the nail strips.

I really ended up liking this product and was pretty impressed. For a nail dummy like myself these were simple, easy and the end result was very professional looking.

I didn't have to wait to have my nails dry (except for the top coat which I voluntarily applied) and the application was effortless. I thought it was going to be a pain and they weren't going to stick but they went right on.

PROS:

- They have a good variety of designs & colors

- They are cheaper than Minx

- They are easy to apply yourself

- No dry time (Unless you opt for a Top Coat)

- The instructions that came with them are easy to follow

- Good for people who aren't great at doing nails

- They last a long time and are durable

- If you have short nails you can get 2 uses

(by cutting them in half)

CONS:

- They are pricey compared to a bottle of polish

- The sizing of the strips is a little weird

- They take awhile to apply. Set some time aside

- You have to get past the learning curve

- You probably should put on a Top Coat

Overall I was very happy with my $8 purchase from Walmart. I definitely want to try them again. This might be a regular occurrence. It's definitely cheaper than splurging on a Mani or Minx.

SIDE NOTE:

I also was able to get a "Pedicure" out of one box. I technically got a Mani/Pedi.

I was curious so I tried...

Not bad at all but please excuse my sock imprint!

Foot looks all bumpy on the right side doesn't it?

Have you tried any of the Sally Hansen Salon Effects yet?
If so let me know what you think!

My Crystal Renn Painting - A Dedication To Donna

My Aunt Donna was diagnosed with Breast Cancer about 2 years ago. Due to religious beliefs she decided to go the Holistic route for treatment. Sadly after a long battle she is losing her fight with this disease. It's been a long road for her and the family but she is resting comfortably surrounded by family and friends. We don't know how much longer she has but the prognosis is bad and the Doctor doesn't give her a lot of time.

I recently went down to Tennessee to visit my Aunt. She requested to see the family to spend some quality time before passing on. Luckily she has come to terms with her results and she is at peace with the situation. No body is every 100% ready to be taken from this Earth however with the comfort of her family and her strong belief in God, and his word ... somehow, someway she is ok with everything. She is a strong woman and I truly look up to her.

I started this painting late last year for her. This painting is of Plus Size Model Crystal Renn. This particular picture is from 'The Breast Cancer Research Foundation' advertisement that has been recently printed in a lot of popular Women's magazines. This painting really spoke to me. My favorite model is Crystal Renn and my Aunt has Breast Cancer. I dedicated the painting to her and she now has it hanging beside her bed to look up at everyday.

I thought I'd share this with everyone since I am very proud of this piece. Not only am I proud of this painting but it has a lot of meaning behind it as well. The following slideshow is a "timeline" from sketch to the final product.

Hope you all love it as much as I do.

That Romper Did Absolutely NOTHING For Me!

I was in Torrid last week and was really excited to find out that they had the Romper that I have been eyeballing online for awhile now. Clearly it looks amazing on the model and I thought it would also look this great on me too.

I grabbed two sizes just in case but the results did not please me very much. It wasn't "horrible" on me but it just wasn't my style. Better luck next time I suppose. Here is a picture of me with this piece on. In my version I tried to pair it with a belt to cinch my waist a little more since I like embracing my hour glass figure. Unfortunately the fabric is so loose and draped that you can barely tell I had one on. A+ for effort?

What are your thoughts? Hate it, or love it. Love to know what you guys think. Maybe i'll have to rethink it if I get a lot of positive feedback. After all, it is VERY comfortable! =)

Doesn't Galliano's "Ready To Wear" piece look like...

I Heart Suede Pumps

Suedette Platform @ New Look

Been looking for the PERFECT Black Suede pump for the longest time. I was going to get the "Quincy" heel that they had on Torrid but they no longer have that product in stock so these are the next best thing. Honestly they are about the same price and look almost a like. I am just glad they had them in my size! I hope they fit as good as they look. Usually I don't get the heels so high on my pumps but I just couldn't resist. I had to have these ASAP! These are going to be a staple in my wardrobe, I can just feel it. Can't wait!

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THEM OUT!

Snooki looks a lot like...

I don't know. They just have the same presence about them don't they? Snooki could very well be the 'LOVE CHILD' of Danny Devito and Lil Kim. What do YOU think?
...and while we are on the subject. Doesn't this channel her inner Nicki Minaj so well? Hahahahaha! (Yeah, I know i'm going to hell!)

100 Posts! Yah me!

Thanks to everyone that follows my blog. I appreciate all the support and looking forward to many more posts!

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Email me at:LifeAccordingToJb@gmail.com

Newest Obsession: Yours Clothing

I don't know if i've been living under a rock but I just discovered this site a few months back. It's a brand called 'YOURS CLOTHING'. They have tons of options for the Plus Size DIVA in everyone. What I like about them is that they have a lot of options that are basic and a lot of options that are trendy too. They have the best of both worlds.
 

I am in love. I haven't ordered anything from them yet but I can't wait to get my taxes back so I can go crazy and order some of the pieces I am showing above.

I would also like to add to this entry that I have come to the conclusion that American plus size is not NEARLY as great as overseas. The UK and even Australia have great places with Plus Size options.

With that said above I have listed some of my favorite picks from 'YOURS CLOTHING'. What do you think of my picks? Have you ordered from 'YOURS CLOTHING' before? If so i'd like you to share. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Please go to their site. It's worth a look!

The perfect Valentines (NIGHT) Outfit

Ironically enough, I myself currently have no significant other to share Valentines Day with but it doesn't discourage me from looking around and sharing my finds with you guys. You never know right? Besides, even if I do have someone to share it with I don't go all goo-goo ga-ga over this "commercialized" holiday anyway. I'd rather just stay in with them and enjoy the night. This Valentines will probably consist of dinner, wine and a movie with a couple of my girlfriends. If that fails there's always Georgie (my Chihuahua) whom I could just cuddle on the couch with. Pathetic? Maybe, but see if I care. Haha. 

So here are a few of my picks for the sexiest Valentines Night (or day if your adventurous). There is something for everyone. What do you think?

1. Something.... SASSY!

Black and White Animal-Print Bustier - Torrid $28.00
2. Something.... CLICHE!

Black and Red Mesh Heart Apron - Torrid $28.00

3. Something....SWEET!

 Lace and Stretch Satin Bustier - Hip & Curves $53.50

4. Something....SEXY!

Garter Chemise with Power Net Sides - Hips & Curves $49.95

The Surprising Reason Why Being Overweight is Unhealthy

I was skimming through one of my friends Facebook pages and came across a link that was very interesting to me. I had to share with all you guys. So sad and so true.

I myself have an AWESOME Primary Care doctor and he truly never gets at me for "losing weight" being the butt of all my health issues. For this I am truly grateful but I have worked for Cardiologists and other doctors through out the years and sometimes they would bring "bigger" patients to tears from telling them that they are straight up "fat". It's pretty pathetic. We can only hope this gets better but really voicing our opinions on how we are feeling and the main reason we are seeing them. Not for "weight loss advice" (unless we ask) but for whatever the issue we are having is. This is pathetic in my eyes. You are supposed to trust our doctors. This is OUR health after all!!!

Take a look. CLICK HERE!

Bits of Wisdom by Regina Brett

1. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
2. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
3. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
4. Pay off your credit cards every month.
5. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
6. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
7. Save for retirement starting with your first pay cheque.
8. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
9. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
10. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
13. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
14. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
15. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
16. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
17. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
18. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion, today is special.
19. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
20. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
21. The most important sex organ is the brain.
22. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
23. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
24. Always choose life.
25. Forgive everyone everything.
26. What other people think of you is none of your business.
27. Time heals almost everything. Give time.
28. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
29. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
30. Believe in miracles.
31. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
32. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
33. Your children get only one childhood.
34. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
35. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
36. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
37. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
38. The best is yet to come.
39. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
40. Yield.
41. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

Faster Braces Removal???

What's the number one question you ask when you got to the Orthodontist? "When do you think my braces will come off?" It's a given! I'm guilty of it. Suuuuurrrrre my Orthodontist told me last time when I was there how much longer but maybe, just maybe, it's changed since then. Usually not though but i'm always hopeful. Which is why I found this extremely interesting when I came across it. It's a device that speeds up the process of braces. It's called Acceledent.

Acceledent is a small device that fits in the persons mouth, and on over the braces. It gives off very gentle micro-vibrations that help speed of the process of the tooth movement. Supposedly you only have to use it about 20 minutes a day and it sort of hangs out of your mouth, and over your bottom lip. Thankfully it's lightweight so you can do things around the house while you are waiting for it to "take it's course." The company claims that Acceledent takes approximately 4 to 6 months off your wait. Wouldn't you do it if you were given the chance? I wish I could!

The concept of micro-vibrations is definitely not new. It's been successful in treating Osteoporosis and helping with the heeling of bone fractures. As of right now they have some clinical trials being done and hope to have this device FDA approved by October of 2010.



SOURCE

CURVES AHEAD: V Magazine Editorial (The Size Issue)

Some posts back or so I featured V Magazine’s ‘One Size Fits All’ editorial with Crystal Renn (Plus Size Model) and Jacquelyn Jablonski (Straight Size Model). This particular editorial sparked a lot of debate on what V Magazine was trying to portray. I personally thought it was great and loved the spread!!! Recently V Magazine has released a second editorial appropriately entitled “Curves Ahead” that is sure to stir up more debate. This particular editorial features five plus size models in everything from swimwear to lingerie to denim jeans. The editorial is filled with breath taking woman who have hips, thighs, muffin tops, and maybe a little ::GASP:: back fat! Some people might say this is something they do NOT want to see but frankly... these girls are WORKING THE CAMERA like nobody's business! I think I am officially in love with this editorial. Check it out and see for yourself. Hope you all enjoy =)

READ MORE AFTER THE JUMP...

65 Things You Never Cared To Know About Me... ;)

1. FIRST THING YOU WASH IN THE SHOWER?:
My boobs! (most of the time, my left one first! haha)

2. WHAT COLOR IS YOUR FAVORITE HOODIE?:
Black and Gray ... it's over sized and totally comfortable

3. WOULD YOU KISS THE LAST PERSON YOU KISSED AGAIN?:
Yea, I would. I guess so.

4. DO YOU PLAN OUTFITS?:
Not as a "daily" thing. Just if I am going out for the night somewhere.

5. HOW ARE YOU FEELING RIGHT NOW?:
Tired... probably "over" tired, and that's why I can't sleep.

6. WHAT'S THE CLOSET THING TO YOU THAT IS RED?:
Christmas bow

7. TELL ME THE LAST DREAM THAT YOU REMEMBER HAVING:
I was eating mac & cheese and my mom put a slice of cheese ON my mac & cheese and I got so mad! haha

8. DID YOU MEET ANYBODY NEW TODAY?:
Nope, not today.

9. WHAT ARE YOU CRAVING RIGHT NOW?:
Hot Chocolate, a good movie, and a "Snuggle Buddy"

10. DO YOU FLOSS REGULARLY?:
I have to. It's vital for my braces!

READ THE REST AFTER THE JUMP...

Invisalign or Braces?

Orthodontist Compares Traditional Braces to Invisalign
Date Released: 11/27/2009

When making the decision to invest in straightening your teeth, many factors come into play. Florida dentist Dr. Michael Hess compares the two most popular methods of treatment, braces and Invisalign.

Press Release Image LITHIA, FL — Just by looking at the two, one can make several comparisons between traditional braces and Invisalign. But, can you judge them by their covers, or is there more to the story than the eye can tell?

“There are many ways to compare Invisalign and braces,” said Lithia Invisalign orthodontist Dr. Michael Hess. “From an orthodontist’s perspective, both treatments are fine, but when it comes to patients, there are all sorts of preferences that come into play. What I’ve seen my patients most concerned with are costs, esthetics, treatment, results, and maintenance.”

MORE AFTER THE JUMP!

Body Issues: Everyone's got em'

COMMENT: Jennifer, I think you look so pretty in this picture. I am a girl of a certain weight and I find it hard to look cute and put together. I always look in the mirror and see sloppy and fat. What can I do? Please help! Did I mention I am 200 pounds? I’m just saying…lol.

Five ways to tell if someone is lying to you.

1.) Shifty eye contact - is a dead giveaway. If your seeking truth from someone who is lying, they will, oftentimes, fail to look you directly in the eye. In some cases, liars will quickly glance to the right or downward. But if you’re dealing with an expert liar, the eye contact will probably stare you in the eyes and lie, but if that eye contact mimics that of a staring contest, they’re lying!

2.) Use of contractions - if you’re asking questions and probing for the truth and the person you’re drilling says, “I wasn’t at the bar with another girl,” they’re probably telling the truth. But if they say, “I was NOT at the bar with another girl,” they’re probably lying. My research concluded that the use of a contraction is likely true.

3.) Switch the subject - now when you’re drilling the person trying to find the truth and from your frustration alone you “drop it” or “forget it” and change the subject. If the person immediately complies, jumps on board with new subject and is seemingly relieved, they’re lying!

4.) They go soprano - if the person you suspect is lying vocal pitch changes to soprano, and in worst cases falsetto, when explaining themselves or defending their plight, you already know! This is a tell-tale sign of stress and anxiety. If you’re telling the truth there’s no need to feel stressed or pressured, right? Right.

5.) The emphatic “huh” - if you ask someone a specific question related to a statement they made previously and they answer you with a “huh.” They’re buying time to think of what to say next … you heard me! You probably caught them off guard and they’re not ready to answer you and tell the truth!


Peep the original article on B.Scott's blog!!

Is Ralph Lauren smoking Pot?

Ok, everyone knows that most of the adverisements you see are all photoshopped. It's just something that society has come down to. Sad? Yes!

.
(Share this video!!)

Fortunately we could all do something about it. STOP buying clothes from these retailers that promote being "Stick Skinny". We can also write letters to designers and let them know that we want to see average women in the advertisements. Lastly we can start internally and love ourselves for who we are and not what the media "wants" us to be, or look like.

With all that being said there's a picture that has been circulating the internet and causing a ton of controversy. It's an advertisement for Ralph Lauren and honestly it's disgusting. Take a look below.

READ MORE AFTER THE JUMP!!