This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here.
We enjoyed such a beautiful day at Pier 39. The weather was perfect and there were some extra attractions to celebrate the Pier’s 35th anniversary.
Author: muffinchanel.com
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
Let me start by summarizing: this post is about eczema and includes pictures of terrible rashes…you have been warned!
The transition into fall and winter can be harsh on your skin. We all want balanced, and soft feeling skin, but sometimes it takes more than lotion.
Growing up, I would get dry, itchy patches on my arms and legs during the winter, but it wasn’t until I got older that it became more severe. I had reddish patches on my legs near my knees that would itch year round. This was so frustrating, especially during the summer when I would wear shorts, but my legs were flaky, itchy, and dry. 🙁
I saw my doctor when the “rash” seemed to spread to a larger section around my knees and the area around upper thigh became discolored. She told me that I had eczema and prescribed me a cream to apply daily.
The cream was thick and cold and I hated it, but I applied it every day. I started to notice results after a few days and stopped using the cream. The itching and rashes returned so I continued the cream again. The cream was just a temporary solution — I needed something healing; something that would balance out my skin and keep my hydrated.
*Drumroll* Josie Maran – Whipped Argan Oil!!!! I cannot say enough how much this has helped me. Josie does not mess around and I couldn’t be happier.
My mom gave me this jar of the Whipped Argan Oil ultra-hydrating body butter in the scent Vanilla Fig (thanks Mom!). It’s a little pricy at $35 for the .8oz size (at Sephora or QVC), but worth every penny to me for how it’s helped me. (Pictures at the end) More about the cream — it’s super lightweight and not greasy. It absorbs quickly into my super dry skin, but just as quickly all over where I’m not dry. It comes in a few different scents, but I really love the Vanilla Fig — sweet, but not overpowering.
I first used this before bed and the next morning I saw a huge difference. After a couple days, my dryness and redness were gone; my skin wasn’t itching and irritated. AMAZING! And even when I missed a couple of days, the rash didn’t come back. Finally, something that actually worked to heal and fix the problem! It’s only been about two weeks since I started using Josie’s Whipped Argan Oil, but I don’t have an issue with eczema anymore. The difference is night and day! My skin is soft and smooth; no discoloration and no itching! YAY!
I am so super happy to have found the Whipped Argan Oil. Look at the difference — the eczema was basically attacking my leg, and now my skin is calm and balanced. 🙂 This is a love love love holy grail product for me. Everyone should try this out; you will not be disappointed!
Categories
Sephora Haul!
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
My last Sephora Haul was back in August when they were having that promotion to earn 3x’s the points for VIB’s. This time, I had a 10% off coupon code from the “Beauty Fall” promotion and a gift card that my Prima gave me for my birthday. Thanks Prima 🙂
So, I bought a couple of things, redeemed some beauty insider points, and of course got some free samples! Yay!
BENEFIT COSMETICS – It’s A Love Fest
This set is Limited Edition and Exclusive to Sephora. All I really wanted was the POREfessional face primer (because I got a free sample in my last Haul and loved it), but for only $6 more dollars, I get a full sized POREfessional, a full sized They’re Real mascara, a mini SunBeam highlighter, and a mini Coralista lip gloss! Yay!
Such a great value. And it all comes in a cute “collector’s” tin which I can use to store things in. I’ve never used the SunBeam or Coralista so it’s nice to get to try out new products.
SEPHORA BY OPI – Gel French Manicure Kit
I selected this kit because it was a great value as well. Also Limited Edition, it comes with 2 gel polishes (White Hot and True Romantic), nail decals, and a applicator tool.
I prefer gel nail polish to regular polish because they’re easy to do and they last so much longer. (See application process HERE ). Plus, with this kit, I get everything for less than the two gel polishes would cost separately! (See what I used to create French Manicure gel nails HERE)
VIKTOR & ROLF – Flowerbomb
I redeemed 250 points to get this mini sample of my favorite fragrance. This is a great little travel size and it comes in the same signature bottle. Super cute!
Samples
I always like selecting the three free samples when ordering online. This time I got:
- LANCÔME ÉNERGIE DE VIE Dullness Relief & Energy Recharge Daily Cream
- Bumble & Bumble – Thickening Shampoo
- BENEFIT COSMETICS – The POREfessional
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
Back in August, I told you about my Sephora haul where I picked up the MARC JACOBS BEAUTY Genius Gel Super-Charged Foundation for my birthday. I’ve had a couple of months to use the product and I’m ready to give a review!
First off, there is NO SPF in this foundation and I am all about protecting my skin from the sun’s UV rays. I’ll use a sunscreen (usually Neutrogena’s dry touch SPF) as a moisturizer before applying the foundation.
Cost
$48 for 1oz. Kind of pricy, I think, for what you really are getting.
Packaging
The foundation comes in a sleek glass bottle with a shiny black cap that removes to reveal a pump dispenser. I always prefer a pump because it allows me to control the amount of foundation I use and it’s more hygienic than an open bottle or compact. The bottle is very substantial, and I’m sure that it’s part of that high price tag, but it’s heavy and kind of bulky if you were to travel with it.
Consistency
The formula really is different than other liquid foundations. The “gel” is almost smooth like a primer. It’s still runny like a liquid, but thicker and very light weight. The gel does make it nice to apply though and a little goes a long way. One pump can give me light coverage for my face and neck.
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
These cupcakes were a lot of fun and very easy to make!
Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees
In a medium bowl combine:
- 1 1/4 cup Milk — we used Coconut Milk
- 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
Let mixture sit for about 5 minutes or until foamy
- Add 1/4 cup oil (we used avocado oil) and whisk well
Whisk Baking Mix into the liquid ingredients and blend until smooth
So easy, right!? Then we poured the mixture into our cupcake pans, greased with coconut oil, and popped the tray into the oven for 18 minutes.
While the cupcakes were baking, we made the Organic Gluten-Free Vanilla Frosting Mix! Yay!
The mix was super easy to make — just combine vegan margarine (we used Coconut Oil) and the mix and voila!
By the time we were done, so were the cupcakes!
After letting the cupcakes cool for 15 minutes, we added the frosting.
These cupcakes are awesome! Even if you don’t have a food allergy or dietary preferences, you will enjoy this mix and frosting. You can order this and other organic, gluten-free baking mixes from wholesomechow.com.
I want to try their Lemon Poppy Blueberry Muffins next!
Categories
What’s In My Makeup Bag?
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
This is pretty much what I wear on days when I wear makeup! My go-to bag of goodies!
From Left, up, then Right, down:
- Too Faced – Candlelight
- Sonia Kashuk – Fan Brush
- Mac – 168 Large Angled Contour Brush
- Sephora – Pro Stippling #44
- Marc Jacobs – Genius Gel (22 Bisque Light) (see my review HERE)
- Benefit – They’re Real mascara
- Smashbox -Layer Lash Primer
- Lancome – Hypnose Drama mascara
- Nars – Larger Than Life long wear eyeliner (47th Street – Black)
- Rosebud Perfume Company Lip Balm (Minted Rose)
- Urban Decay – Eye Shadow Primer Potion
- Urban Decay – Naked 2
- Lancome – Effacernes (Porcelaine)
- Lancome – Star Bronzer (02 Sunkiss)
- Sonia Kashuk – Beautifying Blush (melon)
- Neutrogena – Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen
- Revlon – Eyelash Curler
- Benefit – Watt’s Up!
- Anastasia Beverly Hills – Beauty Express for Brows and Eyes
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I love a nice ethereal glow on the face during winter — really all year long, but there’s something really pretty about a nice shimmer right above the cheekbones during the holidays.
Highlighters can give your skin a more youthful appearance. Not only can you apply it to the cheekbones, but also under the eyes, on your brow bone, down your nose, right above your lip — in your cupid’s bow, and along your clavicles.
Here are a few products to use to give you that holiday glow!
High Beam – Benefit
I’ve used this for years and it’s great for a pinkish, metallic silver highlight. It’s a creamy, kind of watery consistency that comes in what looks like a nail polish bottle. A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY with High Beam. I dot a small amount onto my cheekbones, under my eyebrows, and down my nose to highlight and just blend it out.
Since it is very metallic, you may want to mix it with your moisturizer or some foundation before applying, to give it a more natural look.
Watts Up – Benefit
I really like this highlighter. It comes in a gel-like creme stick — like a chap stick. The consistency is similar to a chap stick too, maybe a little grainier and not sticky, but then it turns into a powdery feel. You can apply the product directly on your face and then use the opposite end of the stick, which has a little foam pad, to blend it out. I prefer to blend it with my fingers. The color is a kind of champagne gold with shimmer — a deeper colored highlighter. This might be a good highlighter for you if you have a tan complexion or if you prefer a highlighter without a pink undertone. Application is easy and it’s very forgiving if you apply too much.
Hello Light – it Cosmetics
This gel/creme highlighter comes in a silver compact and is very subtle. I apply this with my fingers and as it comes in contact with your fingers, the product warms and becomes very easy to smooth on. It’s a pale white/silver shimmer color that gives a very natural, youthful look. Perfect for that happy, natural glow without looking like you are wearing a highlighter.
Candlelight – Too Faced
This highlighter is a powder that comes in a mirrored compact. With real gold flecks in this slightly yellow powder, you’re sure to get a warmer glow to your complexion. It’s slightly sheer, but in the sun, you’ll see the subtle gold glow.
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I attempted to recreate the Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich from Panera and it was a success! I loved the result! Here’s what I did to make my own version of this amazing sandwich:
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
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Skillful Means by Tarthang Tulku
This book is all about improving your life by being mindful of what is happening right now. I first read this book a couple of years ago and it’s great. How many times are you walking to class or your car or at the mall and you’re on your cell phone? Or how often are you thinking about the XYZ you have to do tomorrow or next week instead of paying attention to what you are doing right now? All we have is the present — this moment. Skillful Means is all about living in the moment you are in; being mindful about what is going on around you. No distractions — just really being self aware and clearing your mind. It’s a great book that will help you focus and appreciate what’s happening all around you.
- Starbucks Star Dash
From now until October 1, Starbucks is doing their Star Dash. Basically, it’s another incentive for you to go to Starbucks during certain times of the year in order to accumulate stars to earn a gift card. This “Star Dash” is different from the stars you earn with the Rewards Card, although, you do need a rewards card to participate. Separate from the regular stars you earn with the Rewards Card, these “Star Dash” stars will give you $5 or $10 gift cards depending on how many you get before the deadline. Each transaction will ear you one star. I’m on my way to earning the $10 gift card!
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Mediterranean Veggie sandwich (Panera)
New favorite sandwich for sure. I was looking for some meatless options at different restaurants and a friend suggested I try this sandwich from Panera. It’s amazing — lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion, red peppers, cilantro/jalepeño hummus, and feta swiss cheese (I prefer swiss) on tomato basil bread. I bought ingredients today to make my own version at home! YAY!
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iOS7
I love the clean look and feel of the iOS7 update. I have the iPhone 4S and my camera app is faster and I really like having the “live filters”. Command Center is great and I really like all the new ringtones/sounds. It’s neat to have the option to block contacts and to be able to multi-task between apps.
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Clear
Clear is a simple task management/list application. It’s clean and easy to navigate with lots of color schemes to choose from.
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iTunes Radio
iTunes radio is basically like Pandora. I prefer it because it’s already integrated into iTunes and it remembers the songs I’ve listened to and makes it easy for me to purchase them if I choose. You can create your own “stations” and mark that you like certain songs. There’s even a Top 100 iTunes radio and you can listen to a shuffle of all the Top 100 songs on iTunes. I think this is awesome for getting high quality audio for more than just a preview of a song you might be interested in buying.
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The Killers – Shot At The Night
It was actually through iTunes Radio that I first heard “Shot At The Night”. ^^^
The Killers songs are always a little vague, but this one seems to be about taking this once in a lifetime opportunity to get out of a situation that is stale and move on to a life that is exciting and full of happiness. I love this. Plus who doesn’t love a nice 80’s synth ballad! Yay for new music from The Killers! I’m excited for Direct Hits to come out in November.
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Lighted Makeup Mirror
This mirror is great for applying makeup or tweezing your brows. With 8xs magnification and 360 degree rotation, you’ll be sure to see exactly what you are doing!
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SEPHORA COLLECTION – Pro Stippling Brush #44
I’m surprised this brush doesn’t have better reviews online. A lot of people are saying the brush sheds, but I’ve never experienced any shedding. I really like this brush. I use it to apply my Marc Jacobs Genius Gel Foundation. The brush gives my skin an even, airbrushed yet natural look. The natural and synthetic fibers work together to give a streak-free application that looks great all day.
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BB Dakota ‘Renley’ Lace Fit & Flare Dress (Nordstrom)
This dress is super cute. I bought it for a friend’s wedding next month but I can see myself getting a lot of use out of it. The lace design is really pretty, but durable — this isn’t some dainty-be-careful-or-it’ll-rip lace. The A-line makes it flattering for all body shapes and it’s very comfortable on.
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
Sephora’s Instagram posted yesterday that, courtesy of SephoraShares, you can download A Beautiful Mess for free. This app cost $.99 through the iTunes App Store, but it’s free if you go through sephora.com/sephorashares. Yay!
I had wanted to download this girly photo editing app before this free download, but the numerous reviews about all “the good fonts and effects” only being available through in-app purchases and the initial $.99 price seemed like a waste. I’m glad I got it for free through Sephora though. The app has enough cool fonts and doodles to make your pictures more fun.
It was super easy to download onto my phone
Thanks for the free app, Sephora!
Starbucks has a similar program through their iPhone app; you can download a free song of the week and sometimes, a free app as well. Definitely a cool way to discover new music/apps!
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I stopped eating meat about a week ago after watching the documentary, Earthlings. If you haven’t seen it, definitely check it out. It’s terrible how they mistreat and abuse animals all for human consumption.
So far, the transition to not eating meat has been easy. I would eat chicken often and hamburgers occasionally, but after watching that documentary, I have no desire to. I’ve been eating more fruits, vegetables, and nuts which is a huge upgrade in my diet.
My fingers used be swollen in the mornings, so much so that it was awkward to make a fist. It was uncomfortable but I attributed it to eating/drinking sugar at night or not drinking enough water during the day. Since cutting out meat, however, I haven’t had any swelling at all; it’s great!
I’m looking for some vegetarian/vegan recipes that are quick and easy to make. If you know any, please let me know! 🙂
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
Sad news — my Fitbit Flex‘s band is broken.
I popped the tracker out of the band to charge it, and the band separated where the view finder is. I haven’t even had the Flex for that long! This is crazy. I’m super disappointed. At least I have the larger band that I guess I can use.
I didn’t really want to buy the replacement colored bands, but I might have to.
I’m going to check Fitbit.com to see if they have a warranty or something. Or maybe I can do an exchange at Target?
Has this happened to you? if so, what did you do?
UPDATE:
I sent an email through the fitbit.com website at “contact.fitbit.com“, letting them know about my defective wristband. They replied in less than 15 minutes and said they’d be happy to replace my band! So awesome! I replied providing my address, phone number and wristband details like they requested.
UPDATE #2:
September 4. I received my new band in the mail today! Yay! Thanks Fitbit!
Update #3
You can buy your own replacement bands in the classic colors or fun/bright colors online. They come in a three-pack which is nice for some variety & just as a handy replacement in case the band breaks :/
*** Check out my first impressions of the new Fitbit ChargeHR! It even has a heart rate monitor! I love mine!
UPDATE — my Fitbit Charge HR band broke too!
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I’m a little late to the party — I think this album came out sometime late last year — but I’m here now!
I first listened to the album on YouTube and then forgot about it, until recently. I’ve been listening to it a lot lately; the songs are catchy and fun.
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Game of Thrones
After I saw the first season, I hated this show! How dare they kill off a main character!! Not much has changed….but I like the show a little bit better. I’m rooting for the Khaleesi to reclaim her throne!
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Natural for Her – Herban Cowboy
I first heard of this deodorant from neo-reality.com. It prevents sweat and odors and it’s natural, what more could you ask for? This deodorant is vegan and certified organic so you don’t have to worry about chemicals and carcinogens seeping into your skin. Very happy with this purchase.
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Pedicures (Clambake by Essie)
My mom and I recently went out for a birthday pedicure! I used Clambake by Essie because it’s so fun and it’s the perfect balance between red and orange.
Pedicures are a great way to relax and pamper yourself. Especially during summer, when you’ll likely be wearing flip flops, nothing can make you feel a little happier than looking at freshly pedicured toes.
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Korres Lip Butter
I got these two, Pomegranate and Jasmine, for my birthday and they are both awesome! These lip butters are so smooth and make my lips feel soft and hydrated. Some of the colors are bright, but the results are mostly sheer with a hint of color. Perfect for every day and definitely one of my all time favorite lip products.
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US Open
All the best players all on one stage for two weeks of fun. Tennis is such a cool sport because it’s just you against your opponent — no teams, no blaming others. They’re doing some intense stuff as athletes, from sprinting to strategy. What a great game!
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California Pizza Kitchen
I love the Pizza Kitchen. Their spinach artichoke dip is delicious and their BBQ Chicken Pizza is awesome.
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Photojojo iPhone Lens
These lenses are so cool! Thanks to my family for the perfect birthday gift! You can find these lenses at photojojo.com — all four for $50.
My favorite lenses are the Macro and the Wide. Both lenses actually come as one and you unscrew them to separate. It took me a day to figure out how to get to the Macro lens :/ but it’s awesome. Check out my instagram: MuffinChanel for some awesome pictures!
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Josie Maran SPF 40
I really like this lightweight, dewy sunscreen. With Argon oil, it seems to clear up any discoloration and balance my skin. No parabens and cruelty free; it’s a silky sunscreen that absorbs well into my skin. It leaves me feeling fresh-faced, and not greasy.
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SEPHORA Smart Liner
This liner is so awesome — the curve of the casing give you the control you need to get the most precise line ever. The flexible felt tip makes it easy to create a fine line or build up the drama with a thick wing.
See last month’s favorites HERE
Categories
Sephora Birthday Haul
This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
Yay for my birthday month and 3x’s the points at Sephora!
I’m super excited because I picked up some awesome things at Sephora, I received a special VIB samples pouch with my purchase, and a great VIB birthday gift….AND i earned triple points!
First off, I tried out Sephora + Pantone Color IQ device to help me find the perfect foundation color for my skin tone.
The device takes pictures of your skin and tells you your Color IQ number. I’m 4Y06 — then you take your Color IQ number and plug it into your phone or their iPads they have at the makeover station and it’ll tell you what foundation colors will be the perfect match for you in each brand.
So, I picked up the new MARC JACOBS BEAUTY Genius Gel Super-Charged Foundation in shade 22 Bisque Light. (See my review HERE)
I also picked up the Korres Lip Butter in Mango (they didn’t have the pomegranate kind in stock).
And this awesome eyeliner from Sephora. The design is perfect for your finger to wear like a little claw. It gives you a lot of control and the felt tip gives you a precise line. Yay!
Then, as extras for being a VIB, I got a deluxe samples pouch and a free birthday gift! So Great!
I’m very happy with my purchases and my freebies! Happy Birthday to me!