Ok...I'm Finally Back!! Lip Shimmer Winner Announced!

Good grief!  This summer was supposed include time for me to unwind, to relax and refocus.  Instead I feel like I've been behind the 8-ball and that I'm barely treading water.  So much for relaxation and regrouping. 

That's life, right? 

Anyway, I was supposed to be back to blogging last week, but I started off the week by cutting the crap out of my finger (I'm ok--I sliced through the center of my right middle-finger, so no 10-finger manis for the next couple of months!) and then spent the rest of the week getting caught up with work.  My blogging time was reduced to nothing, so I was unexpectedly silent.  Sorry about that. 

I have a bunch of loose ends to get to...and I have beauty news to share, of course.  So...I'm back.  I'm hoping to be on more of a routine with the blogging, but I hate to make promises at this point.  Life keeps getting in the way of my plans.  Hrmphf.

Here's one thing I'm horribly overdue on: announcing the winner of my Lip Shimmers Giveaway.  Drumroll, please...

The winner is:

Random number generated by random.org  Horrible photo by my iphone!

Commenter #3: PhairHead!  I'll shoot you an email to arrange for delivery of your prize.  CONGRATS!

Ok--I'll be back with more this week, so stay tuned!

Beach Bound!

I'm taking a mini break from blogging this week.  I'm headed down to the beach for some much needed down time.  Right now, I just need to look at the ocean, go biking, and plow though the 959 pages of A Dance With Dragons. 

I'll be back soon, but be sure to enter for your chance to win some kick-ass lip gloss. Click here for deets.

See you soon!

July Happenings at FreeBeautyEvents.com

It's July--the middle of the summer and a time when I start abandoning my normal makeup routines.  But July is a great time to start thinking about getting ready for the fall--to start taking stock of what you have in your beauty bags, to clean out old stuff and replace it with new, to start focusing on basics like skin care, and to learn more about makeup technique.  Summer school for beauty junkies is so much more glamorous than real summer school!

If you're looking for free beauty events near you--chances to learn about products and get some new beauty knowledge--head over to www.freebeautyevents.com.  The site will point you in the right direction.

This month, for example, Ulta is having some exciting events. At the Ulta Coty Nail Event, demonstrators will be showing customers Sally Hansen Crackle Nailpolish and Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips. They will also be handing out coupons. The Ulta Mustela Event in July, August, and September will give customers a chance to try out Mustela Hydra Bebe Body Lotion, Ultimate Hydration, and Facial Cleansing Cloths.

On www.freebeautyevents.com you can enter your zip code to find out what makeover, gift with purchase, spa open houses and sampling events are happening near your home. In addition to listing in-store makeovers, Freebeautyevents.com also features a blog on product reviews (http://www.freebeautyevents.com/beauty-blog) and a monthly contest (http://www.freebeautyevents.com/contest). For the month of July 2011, they will be giving away 10 prizes. Each prize will consist of Neutrogena Wet Skin Sunblock Spray SPF 30, Wet Skin Kids Sunblock Spray SPF 70+, and Lip Moisturizer. The contest runs from 7/1/2011 to 7/31/2011, winners will be chosen on 8/5/2011 and notified by 8/15/2011.

Happy 4th of July!

Happy 235th Birthday, America! 

I hope you all have a fun, safe 4th of July.  Go out with your friends and family, eat yummy food, watch fireworks, and enjoy every moment.

I saw this secret on the most recent batch of PostSecrets--I made me smile and it's a good reminder that beauty comes from the inside out.

Must Read for All You Beauty Girls!

I was wandering around Barnes and Noble recently (something I often do since my husband and I tend to be bookish) and found a must-read magazine for all you beauty lovers: the July 2011 issue of ConsumerReports ShopSmart magazine.  This issue features the best beauty deals out there (hint: they found an online site that beats even Wal-Mart on price!), tips for being a better shopper, and other consumer info for the beauty fan.

Pick up this magazine and throw it in your beach bag--it's chock full of great tips that will keep you looking beautiful while keeping your hard earned cash in your pocket.

Uh-oh!

I spent some time on Sunday cleaning out some boxes in my bedroom.  From those boxes, I found zillions of beauty products.  I threw all the nail polishes I came across into a basket.  Sadly, this isn't my entire stash. I have two problems: 1) I have too much junk.  2) I'm not as organized as I should be.

Sigh.

Oh, and this a version of this blog entry might post twice because Blogger's mobile blogging is acting strange.  Damn technology.

Happy Birthday, Marilyn

On this day, 85 years ago, a little girl named Norma Jeane Mortenson was born.  Norma Jeane grew into Marilyn Monroe, arguably one of the most famous, iconic women in the world.

Marilyn was a lot of things: beautiful, sexy, funny, sad...but she was also pretty darn smart.  In honor of what would have been her 85 birthday, here are a couple of quotes from Ms. Monroe:

"Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring."

"If you're gonna be two-faced at least make one of them pretty."

"All little girls should be told they are pretty, even if they aren't."

"Women who seek to be equal with men lack ambition."

"I don't mind being burdened with being glamorous and sexual. Beauty and femininity are ageless and can't be contrived, and glamour, although the manufacturers won't like this, cannot be manufactured. Not real glamour; it's based on femininity."

Slowly Making My Way Back

I can't believe I haven't written anything here on my blog in months.  I've never gone this long without posting, so it seems really weird trying to get back. 

I've been having a conversation with myself that goes like this: either come back or shut this puppy down.  But I just don't think I'm quite ready to give up the ghost--not just yet anyway.

I guess this is my roundabout way of saying I'm back, bitches!  I think I'll start off slowly, with a post or two every week.  It's a start...a slow start...but better than nothing.

So...now that I'm back (sorta, kinda!) how have you all been? What beauty trends/products have you fallen in love with lately?  Leave me a comment and let's get this baby going again!

Funky Town

Hello?  Is anyone out there?  I wouldn't blame you if you abandoned my blog...it seems I've been a neglectful writer as of late.  I'm not sure why that is.  I have tons of products I need to write about and I think up ideas for new posts all the time.  But lately...when it comes to putting words down, I just can't seem to be bothered.

I, my friends, am in a blogging funk.  

I've been writing here since 2006, so I guess a period of blah-ness is to be expected.  But I am not happy about it.  It's bothering me that I've been negligent, and I am of two minds.  On one side, I tell myself, "to hell with it.  It's been a good run, but maybe it's time to close up shop."  On the other side, I say, "sit down and write.  This is not the time to quit...it's a time to reevaluate and reconstruct."  Since it's easier to do nothing, that's exactly what I have done.

I think the side of me that wants to reevaluate and come back better than ever is edging out the other side that says F-it.  I do know this: I have a lot still in me to share, and I really DON'T have any intention to shutter this site any time soon. 

I will get back into the writing and posting routine I'm used to...it seems I am just taking a temporary hiatus.  I don't know how long it would last.  Hell, if I get my act together, I might be back tomorrow like this little silent stretch never happened.

All I ask is that you hang in there and stick with me.  I'll shatter this blogging funk in no time, and (being completely optimistic) hope that the best is yet to come!

Before I end this post, I'll ask you this: how do you bust out of a funk?  We all get into them, and we all find our ways out (hopefully).  Let me know what works for you!

Another Year Older...

Hooray! Today's my birthday.  I'm taking the day off of work (and blogging) to spend time with my husband and family...you know, the people that REALLY matter the most.  I fully intend to make the most of this day and this year.  And I can finally say that I am starting to feel like an adult, and that it's not nearly as bad as I thought it would be.

I don't mind getting older.  I'm not afraid of stupid things like wrinkles or frown lines.  I'm just happy to be here another day, another year, to experience all that I can.

I'll try to get back to blogging duties tomorrow to round out the week (I have a Beauty Product of the Week I've been putting off for ages--argh!)...but in case I don't, here's a few quotes from other, wiser, folks about growing old(er).

Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional. ~Chili Davis

Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been. ~Mark Twain

Do not regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many. ~Author Unknown

Two Quickies...

First off, let me apologize for my absence this week.  I have no excuse for my lack of posts...I actually have a TON of stuff to blog about, but I just haven't had the time or energy to face my computer.  Sometimes we just need a little break, I suppose...and I am taking that break now.

As I mentioned, I do have plenty to write about.  I should be back to posting at my normal pace next week (that's the goal, at least!).  So...hang in there and I promise I'll be back.

Second, I thought I'd drop by really quick to let you know about this month's features and giveaway over at Freebeautyevents.com.  In case you need a reminder, freebeautyevents.com lists hosts giveaways, provides updates on events where you can get free samples or tips, etc.  This month, L’Oreal will demonstrating their True Match lines at select Rite Aids around the country as well as handing out coupons and samples.  If you want to see if they're coming to your area, check out the freebeautyevents.com site.

For the February, they're giving away 10 prizes. Each prize will consist of an Almay Smart Shade Concealer, Wake Up Makeup, Intense i-Color Smoky-i Eyeshadow, and Get Up & Grow Mascara!  The Contest runs from 2/1/2011 to 2/28/2011, winners will be chosen on 3/5/2011 and notified by 3/15/2011.

Nice! Check it out.

Enjoy the weekend and the snow (if you have it!)

Random Beauty Quote

A random photo from my flickr collection for a random post.  Really, I just wanted to see something lovely and bright this dreary January!

Wow--the end of the week is almost upon us.  I'm going to round out this crazy, time-strapped week with a quick quote from an anonymous source:

"It's beauty that captures your attention; personality which captures your heart.”

Nice, right?

I'll be back next week with reviews and better info--thanks for putting up with my lack of ambition this week!

Have a great weekend.

You Could Be The Face of ELF

Ok, my lovely ladies!  One of you could be the next face of e.l.f.!  If you think you have what it takes, keep reading:

For the second year in a row, e.l.f. Cosmetics will be spearheading a spokesmodel search – Beauty At All Ages 2011- turning to its own loyal customers to fill the role as the new face of the brand for 2011. The exciting, interactive opportunity will kick-off on January 18th and will run until March 20th, with finalist selection taking place in mid April.

e.l.f. Will be partnering with Explore Modeling (exploremodeling.com), a top online casting and modeling resource site to launch the contest that will be open to the general public for both entry submissions and voting. So anyone can certainly enter! Beauties of all ages and ethnicities are encouraged to enter their model-esque headshots for a chance to claim the coveted title. Submissions can be candid photos that capture both personality and features and need not be professional headshots.

Categories for the search include Teens, 20’s, 30’s and 40’s+. Four finalists, one from each category will be chosen by e.l.f. judges and brought to NYC where they will receive an exclusive makeover from Achelle Dunaway, Creative Director and lead makeup artist for e.l.f. They will also partake in a professional makeup photo-shoot from which the final winner will be selected.

The lucky winner will be crowned the 2011 “face of e.l.f.,” and will be featured on the e.l.f. website, e.l.f.’s facebook page, in e.l.f.’s makeover and tutorial youtube videos and e.l.f.’s newletters. The winner will also have the chance to design a signature makeup collection which will bear their very own moniker. Additional prizes include a "Makeup for Life" e.l.f. cosmetic package or voucher, with an estimated retail value of $250 and a cash prize of $500.

Aside from the grand-prize winner, participants also have the opportunity to win the titles of “Voter Winner” and “Popular Vote Winner.” Both participants and e.l.f. fans can vote in the contest – all voters will be entered into a raffle for a new Flipcam camera, with the winner drawn at random. In addition, the contestant who receives the most votes from her peers will win a 4 night all-expense-paid beach vacation sponsored by Beaches.

For further information on Beauty At All Ages 2011 please visit:
eyeslipsface.com/beauty-at-all-ages

I Need More Time!

I love the beach in the Winter.  Photo by me!

Good Morning and Happy Monday!

Wow--I feel like 2011 is flying by.  It seems like every weekend is super busy, and this last weekend was no exception.  I was at the beach with the Mister and made myself unplug--from my email, twitter, facebook, etc. Also, since I was at the beach, the last thing I worried about was my makeup.  When I was packing for my getaway, I only grabbed a mascara and some powder.  Apart from that (and a little gloss!), I was au naturale.

I swear, I can't go anywhere without mascara...it's my go-to product.

Anyway...I digress.  The point of this message is to say that I might be posting slowly this week, only because I just haven't had much time lately.  I do have TONS to tell you about.  In coming days, look for posts on:

• Valentine's Day tips--makeup ideas, skin care, etc. to get you ready for 2/14 (which, by the way, is just around the corner.  AND Valentine's Day is a mere 2 days before my birthday.  Ugh!)
• A lovely, zen-inducing face mask
• A super compact beauty collection to make you look good on the go
• new Beauty Products of the Week (I've been slack on these lately, but have a bunch of products to review)
• Nail care product review
• More cures for Winter Woes
• ...and much, much more.

I'll be back to normal posts in no time.  Hang in there!  In the meantime, tell me what your go-to beauty product is.  If you were on a deserted island and could only have one product, what would it be?

Beauty Quote to Start the Year

This is a time when people are thinking of ways to transform themselves.  The start of a new year gives us a blank slate--a chance to hit the reset button and begin anew.  As I wind down the first crazy week of this new  year, I leave you with some words of wisdom from American writer and poet,  Maya Angelou:

“We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.”

New Year, New You?

Happy 2011!  Wow...I can't believe that we're at the start of another new year.  I had good intentions last month to do some "Best Of" type posts for 2010, but it never happened.  Life got a bit too busy for me, what with the holidays and all.  And now, a "Best of 2010" feels a bit past it's prime.  It's a new year; let's move forward.

So...today's my first day back at the office in two weeks.  It sucks.  I much prefer my time to myself, though I must admit: I do like getting back to my boring routines.  Routines help me stay on track.

That said, it's a good time to ask: did you make any New Year's Resolutions?  If so, leave me a comment.  I want to hear 'em!  I do not make resolutions....especially in the dead of Winter.  I don't make resolutions at the start of the New Year for this simple fact: it's cold, it's Winter, and the last thing I want to do at this time of year is make radical changes to my routine.  For me, I can take on new projects and challenges better with the light and warmth of Spring.  Weird, huh? 

Even though I am not making any resolutions, I am continuing on in my efforts to become healthier and tinier.  If you've read my blog for the past few months, you may have noticed that I have been undergoing some personal transformations.  In May 2010, I decided I was tired of being fat.  There's no nice way to put it, so there it is.  I was sick of hauling around too many extra pounds, and of being lazy and tired all the time.  For me the answer was simple: join Weight Watchers, stick to their plan with my eating, and increase the amount of exercise I do daily (I went from no exercise ever to at least 40 minutes 5 times a week). 

This plan has worked.  Since May, I've shed about 50 pounds and have gained a whole new outlook on things.  I don't feel depressed or woeful--I am anxious to see what's around the corner.  Losing weight and developing healthier habits have made me look better and feel better, both inside and out. 

So I ask you, what are you planning on doing or changing this year?  Leave me a comment--I'd love to hear what you're working on.

Merry, Happy, Jolly...

Hi Everyone! 

Are you ready for Christmas?  You better be!  Time is winding down.  I am going to take a little time away from the blog--I have a million things to do before Christmas gets here and I won't have the time I need to blog properly.

I'll probably do a few year-end posts next week (if I get my act together!), but in the meantime, I just wanted to thank you all for taking the time to stop by and read my blog.  No matter what or how you celebrate, I hope you are surrounded by people you love and that you're having fun (and being safe).

Happy Holidays!  Stop back by soon--I'll update later!

Getting Back into the Swing of Things

Wow!  We all survived Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and now Cyber Monday.  Yes, my dears, the holiday season is upon us.  I have a TON of emails to wade through and lots of holiday gift giving ideas in mind.  I also have a bunch of products to tell you about, so I'm going to be one busy blogger!

Before I begin all that, I wanted to take a moment to thank you all for your continued support of Kiss and Makeup!  There are times when I get overwhelmed and tired of the whole blogging thing (that's bound to happen after 4+ years!), but then I get comments, emails, etc. from you all and my blogging cells are restored.  Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Be sure to swing by tomorrow (Monday)--I'll be working through the product samples I've been trying out and will update you on some holiday stuff as well.  In the meantime, if you have any products you want to tell me about, if you have any questions, etc. be sure to either leave me a comment or shoot me an email.

Happy start of the holiday season!

Psst...Here's a Chance to Win Some Awesome Mascaras!

You can never have enough mascara.  Especially since you're supposed to throw out your tubes of mascara every 3 months or so (you are doing that, right?!)  Well, if you are a fan of mascara and/or free stuff, head over to the Free Beauty Events website right now. 

For the month of November ten winners will win CoverGirl LashBlast Fusion, MaxFactor Limited Edition, MaxFactor Vivid Impact, Maybelline Lash Stiletto, and Maybelline XXL Pro! . Website visitors have until 11/30 to enter and winners will be chosen on 12/5/2010. Just go to http://www.freebeautyevents.com/contest to enter. Free Beauty Events also runs a contest each week with a smaller prize (but you have a better chance of winning!) Visit http://www.freebeautyevents.com/beauty-blog to check out the weekly contest.

Oh and looking for MORE freebies? This month, Prestige Cosmetics will be at college bookstores in Pennsylvania and Virginia with a free basket raffle for Prestige products, as well as free makeovers. In addition, in December Coty will be promoting their holiday fragrance gift sets at Rite Aid in New York and Pennsylvania.

Theme of the Week: Hair!

This week, I'm focusing on hair products and tools.  When it comes to doing my hair, I am a complete and total mess.  I know how to apply makeup and use skin care products, but there's something about doing my hair that makes me crazy.  I can never get my hair to look right, no matter how hard I try.  In fact, the harder I try the worse it often looks.  It's maddening!

Here's a question for you: What are your best hair styling tips?  What would you tell a person like me, who is completely useless and in major need of some hair help?  I'd love to hear what you have to say, so leave me a comment!

In the coming days, I'll be highlighting a few tools and products for your hair.  For now, I leave you with a few fun quotes:

If truth is beauty, how come no one has their hair done in a library?

~Lily Tomlin

Gray hair is a blessing - ask any bald man.

~Author Unknown

Experience is a comb which nature gives us when we are bald.

~Proverb