Thursday, January 13, 2011

Intro, a tiny fraction of my favorite things, and a first post GIVEAWAY!



I suppose it seems obvious to introduce myself with a picture. I try to make myself this presentable on most days, but I'm not going to lie, there are days when I don't get out of my pajamas. (As I type this in my pj's... lol) I'm currently working on a 60 pound weight loss, going 10 pounds at a time. I am keeping a weekly photo journal of my progress, and, as embarassing as it may be, will post it here monthly. Keep me accountable!


Bundled up in Indy, my hometown. I'm definitely more of an 'indoor' girl.

I would like to start out with a picture of by far THE most important ladies in my life. It seems there are few things left in this world that are sacred, and without a doubt family is number one.



L-R.. My younger sister Amy, myself, Aunt Robin, cousin Tara, and my mom, Ceil

 
I apologize if this first post seems all over the place, but I am going to segway into my first giveaway in just a moment. I am a huge product junkie, so I would love over the course of my blog to share some of my favorites. A disclaimer is necessary, I worked with/for Aveda for over six years, so it will seem a little Aveda-heavy simply because, it is. I love the product and the company. As an aside, if any of my followers ever have any questions regarding an Aveda product, I can more than likely answer it, and would be happy to. Enough about that...
 
 
Something I love and enjoy doing regularly is polishing my nails. I like to experiment with different brands and colors, although OPI and Essie remain my favorites. However, there is one and only ONE topcoat I will ever use.
 

Seche Vite Top Coat. Drys almost instantly. Seriously, amazing.



I am fortunate to be a licensed esthetician, so I can get this at beauty supply stores, but I have seen it at Sally's Beauty Supply as well.

If you don't have a Sally's nearby, here is a great website. Drugstore.com This is a direct link to the product.


Like I said, I polish my nails regularly, at least 2-3 times a week. Someday I'll let you peek at my nailpolish stash, but for now we'll just keep it my dirty little secret.  ;)  Last night I tried a new brand  - CND. It is a little thicker than I prefer, but dried nicely, and true to color with two coats. Here it is in Raspberry Parfait.

CND Raspberry Parfait   There are all sorts of different colors and effects and ways to wear these polishes. Like I said, this was my first go round... It appears much more red in the picture, but it is a very nice cool shade of pink.



CND Raspberry Parfait

On to my favorite hair styling products. The list could go on and on, but these are the ones I use regularly. As in, almost every day.



Everyday Styling


Starting from left to right...

Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair  I use this RELIGIOUSLY, every time I get out of the shower. For all of the color treating, blow drying, flat ironing, curling (you get the picture) I do, this has saved my hair.

Brilliant Damage Control  I am a fanatic against protecting my hair against heat styling and the elements, so I spray this liberally through my hair when it is damp as well.

Glossing Straightener This goes into my hair when it is about 40-50% dry. If you have naturally wavy, curly hair, and want a straight, sleek look, this is for you. I love, love, love this product.... Which leads me to, my first GIVEAWAY.



Aveda Glossing Straightener

Simply follow my blog, leave a comment, I will draw the winner on Sunday evening, and ship out Monday morning. Good luck!!

Light Elements Smoothing Fluid I smooth this through my hair when it is completely dry before flat ironing, as well as on the ends after flat ironing. This stuff is crazy, it lasts for freaking ever.

Air Control A nice lightweight hairspray. I spray this on when my hair is dry, and then comb through.

Control Force Insane hold. I use this when I curl my hair, and it really does last all day.


Alright, I will stop there at the risk of starting to sound like an Aveda spokesperson. I no longer work for the company, so I have nothing to gain from recommending these products, except helping out my fellow beauty and product lovers.


 I hope to update daily, and I leave you with this...



Don't you wish they made shoes like this in our size? Awwww.



Peace.



























13 comments:

  1. Thanks for sharing these products, I've been thinking about trying the damage remedy line (my hair is FRIED) and appreciate the review :)

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  2. I love the new blog and I am now following it. Thanks for all of the great product recs.

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  3. I love Aveda! The Damage remedy line saved my hair years ago when it was so damaged from heat, sun, and the grill (long story!).

    I do wish they made shows like that in adult sizes. Wouldn't that just make your day ;)

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  4. I am liking the product reviews. I might have to try the damage remedy line. I will be following your blog.

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  5. You ladies are very welcome for the reviews. I haven't even hit the tip of the iceburg. ;)

    Thank you for following!!

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  6. Ummm I should win the giveaway because i'm your sister and you love me... Maybe they'll make a movie about your blog like Julie and Julia and then you'll be famous! I think you're on to something :)

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  7. Totally following :) Love a good F&B blog!! I never win these drawings, but this one looks like a good one.

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  8. Thank you, and the odds are pretty good, so you never know!

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  9. I have been using Aveda products, and I love what the company stands for. I have medium-length, thick, somewhat-straight (Asian) hair. I don't blow-dry regularly, but shower at night and allow it to air-dry overnight. Is there any product you recommend where my hair can be more smooth & sleek when I let my hair air-dry (which is 90% of the time)?

    Can't wait to start reading more blog posts about aveda, beauty, and fashion!

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  10. love the blog. And yes I want shoes like that! I have a 1 year old and OMG her clothes are so cute

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  11. I love Aveda products! Great giveaway and great job on the blog!

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  12. Thank you all again! And I do promise to branch out of my Aveda comfort zone and provide many more reviews! xoxo

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  13. Love the new blog and will be following!! Thanks for all the reviews and look forward to many more!!

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