Clinique is doing a variety of workshops where they are giving away samples of their products. I stopped by today and the sales lady gave me an early deal of the Attracted to Colour workshop, which starts tomorrow at my mall. She gave me a free sample of Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Almond Blossom and some of their makeup remover. Click here and check out the workshops, and be sure to look at date and times of workshops near you!
Reviews of these two products coming soon!
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Cliniue Workshops
Posted by Livy at 4:28 PM 1 comments
Back to Blogging
Wow! Has it really been almost two weeks since I have updated? School is ending and summer is coming. I can't wait to start boating and tubing at the lake, and go on my trips this summer! I started a new blog to showcase my summer trips, even though I can barely keep up with this one. :)
Posted by Livy at 4:12 PM 1 comments
Monday, May 5, 2008
Suave Bodywash
Its time to take a deeeep breath and feel very alluring... in the shower! With Suave Exhale Alluring rich moisturizing body wash, you can feel just that. It makes you smell great with cinnamon and sandalwood notes. The bodywash has a sweet scent and a musky feel to it. The price? A little over three dollars, which is a steal for 12 ounces of a good bodywash. Enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 4:25 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Jergens Natural Glow Face Daily Moisturizer
I am using Jergens natural glow daily moisturizer for my face. It is supposed to "create a healthy, summer glow all year long just by moisturizing." It is a good moisturizer and it makes my skin feel smooth and hydrated, but the natural glow part was not as successful. My first few applications made my skin naturally darker, but it stopped working after a few times. The glow that the lotion creates wears off after I wash my face. When I use the moisturizer, it moisturizes my skin, but does not made my face tanner anymore. I suggest you give it a try. There are samples when you purchase Jergens self tanner lotion for your body, which is working great for me by the way.
Enjoy and maybe this product will work better for you!
Posted by Livy at 4:56 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Thank You Notes
It is proper etiquette to send a thank you note when someone has given a gift to you or done something very thoughtful. But, when a major event happens and you have to send out a ton of them, it can become a hassle to make a crafty note for everyone. My birthday was last month and I am way overdue to send my letters so, I did the worst sin a crafty person could do. I bought a pack of thank you notes from Walmart! But, it is OK! I have so much going on right now and hardly any time. I lightened up a little bit and hey, you should too! I bought a pack of ten adorable notes for three dollars. The design is simple, but cute on these Hallmark cards and there is a little glitter on the flower. Make sure you write a sweet message on the inside, and that will make the person smile!
Posted by Livy at 3:21 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Enviromental Tips
Happy Earth Day! Now, I know everyone cannot plant a tree today, but there are plenty of small things you can do to save our planet. I got most of these ideas from Seventeen magazine so enjoy! Natural light is amazing so open your blinds while getting dressed in the morning rather than using lamps. You can apply your makeup more naturally while in natural light. Also, try using the same towel all week. Just hang it up to dry after your shower and imagine how much water you are saving. When you are shopping, look out for organic cotton clothes because they do not harm the environment. A fun fact is that recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to power a TV for three hours. Wow! Unplug your cellphone charger when you are not using it because it uses energy just being plugged in. I do have a little trouble with remembering to unplug my charger! I must repeat the obvious... Don't litter!
Posted by Livy at 6:43 PM 0 comments
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Smartwater Review
So how smart is Glaceau Smartwater? Well, the water is vapor distilled, which means they change the water into vapor, then back into liquid. When the water is in vapor form, it is rid of all the impurities. Normally, you drink spring water "that comes from the ground and contains random stuff and whatever else the animals that swim in it leave behind." To top it all off, Smartwater contains electrolytes including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Unlike other waters, it does not contain sodium, which is unhealthy in excess. I think it has a better taste than other waters. I asked other people their opinion, and most said it tasted no different from regular water. Smartwater comes in four different sizes and at my Walmart they all cost $1.08. I purchase the 750 mL, which is a sports bottle, and then I buy the largest size bottle. When I drink all of the water in the sports bottle, I refill it with the water in the larger bottle. It is less expensive that way. I don't drink Smartwater all of the time, because it is expensive, but I do like to splurge every once in a while! Did I mention the back of the water bottle is hilarious?
Posted by Livy at 8:31 PM 4 comments
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
A Sweet Candle
Who doesn't love the smell of french vanilla? When I want to relax in my bed or in my tub, I light the Glade french vanilla candle. The candle creates a lovely aroma and it lasts a long time. It is also made with natural oils. The best part is that the candle only costs a few dollars, and you can purchase it virtually anywhere. There is no need to spend a lot of money on another candle when this one is too perfect. It also looks good in your home, and the wrapper can be easily taken off.
So create a relaxing mood with this sweet candle and enjoy...
Posted by Livy at 4:50 PM 4 comments
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Free Samples from Walmart
Walmart is offering a free sample of John Freida Frizz Ease shampoo and conditioner. You can choose between products for curly or straight hair. I opted for the curly hair shampoo and conditioner. They are also giving another sample of John Freida. It is a choice between Sheer Blonde or Brilliant Brunette shampoo and conditioner. I chose Brilliant Brunette. I have always wanted to try this kind. Walmart is also giving a free sample Mineral Power Liquid Foundation, and I am looking forward to trying it out, too. Enjoy your samples!
Posted by Livy at 2:56 PM 0 comments
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Bold Nails
When you head to the salon this spring and summer, don't pick the generic pink or red. Be bold and choose a bright, unexpected color like blue! I have gotten many good comments on my bright colored nails. They draw a lot of attention and they are great to look at. Be different and try something new! Enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 7:11 PM 2 comments
Crafty Collage
In another effort to explore my creative side, I made a collage. Collages are great for self expression and they are fun to make. Mine is quite simple, but it did require a good bit of work. All you need is a magazine, scissors, paper, and glue. My collage represents me and what goes on in my life. Have fun making your very own piece of art!
Posted by Livy at 6:59 PM 0 comments
Friday, April 11, 2008
Charity Chick
Money is tight these days and people can barely pay for themselves, but with so many needs in the world, you cannot ignore the problems. Everyone can do their part just by clicking a few buttons or playing a game. Bionic Beauty did a post on a website called Free Rice. You can learn new words and give food to starving people. Another online charity I learned about was from Tori. You go to the animal rescue site and you click a button for each charity. The charites are animal rescue, hunger, literacy, breast cancer, child health, and the rain forest. It is simple and you really are making a difference. Do your part!
Posted by Livy at 11:06 AM 2 comments
Revlon A Floral Affair
Revlon has a makeup collection called The Limited Edition Collection. It does not sound very catchy, but the products are. I bought two products from the it, A Floral Affair blush in peachy keen and Marble-ous Match Liner Shadow Duo in made for jade. You can recognize them both in the drugstore with the floral design. The blush is great and I usually wear it over my bronzer to give a little pink to my face. It is very sheer and has a light shimmer. The color is pretty and it lasts all day. This peachy product costs around ten dollars. The liner shadow duo works really well also. I apply it a little different than what is recommended. I put the bluish liner on my top lash line and I use the gold shadow for the corner of my eyes and underneath them. It works really well and I can wear it all day without it smudging. It costs around ten dollars and it has been my favorite eye makeup in a very long time. Enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 10:36 AM 0 comments
Pamper Your Hands
Do you want satin hands? I know I do and Mary Kay helps you get them. They offer a three step pampering kit called Satin Hands that includes two types of cream and a hand scrub. It takes five minutes to use and when you are done, your hands feel amazing. Usually my hands are rough and dry, but this kit makes them feels smooth and smell lovely. The kit costs $30 for the full size, but I bought the travel kit which is enough for multiple uses. Enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 10:24 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Vaseline Healthy Body Glow
I became tired of looking at my dry, pale skin. I was neglecting to put on lotion and there was no way I could lay out for a nice tan. It was chilly plus I did not want my skin to be damaged by the sun. My first experience this year with self tanner was spray tan. It turned out horribly so I vowed to never try it again. So, I was looking around in Target for some good self tanner lotion. Everything was more expensive than I thought. A lot of lotions were from six to ten dollars for a few ounces of lotion that did not even provide moisture for dry skin. I have had good experiences with Vaseline products so I decided to give the Healthy Body Glow lotion a try. It was around three dollars at Target, but online it runs for around six. I suggest you try Target or Walmart before looking online. The lotion was creamy, but not too thick. You had to use a lot when applying it. I used it on my whole body so I would be tan all over. The scent was not the best and It took a little getting used to. After the first application I was a shade darker. Gradually I became more and more tan. It looked a little orange at first, but after a few days it became more natural. This lotion also made my skin feel very smooth. My skin was no longer dry and it felt much better than before. Vaseline Healthy Body Glow lotion does the trick for me and I feel great when I go out!
Posted by Livy at 2:54 PM 1 comments
Monday, March 31, 2008
Neutrogena Moisture Shine Lip Soother
The winner for the beauty contest is Abby from California whose favorite beauty product is Neutrogena Moisture Shine Lip Soother. Her prize is Vaseline Healthy Body Glow. Thank you to everyone that entered and stick around for another contest soon. In honor of the winner, I am reviewing the product. The lip soother costs around seven dollars and can be purchased at any drugstore. It comes in a variety of colors and I chose Gleam, which is a light, somewhat peachy pink. It has SPF 20 in it that protects your lips from getting burned by the sun. The product is easily applied and not sticky. It has a sweet scent and and a nice tint to it. :) It actually soothes your lips and I am impressed. It is one of my favorite lip glosses of the moment!
Posted by Livy at 3:36 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Aussie 3 Minute Miracle
My hair has looked and felt unbelievably softer since I began using Aussie 3 Minute Miracle moisture treatment. It contains Australian aloe and jojoba oil. Aloe is a natural healing ingredient, so this is a very good ingredient to use on your hair. Jojoba oil is from the jojoba plant and is supposed to really help your hair. Native Americans also used jojoba oil for medical and cosmetic purposes. I use Aussie 3 Minute Miracle daily after shampooing and yes, I do leave it on for three minutes! The smell, like all Aussie products, is absolutely amazing. It is a creamy blend of sweet fragrances that do not fade throughout the day. I was really impressed by this product because as soon as I used it, my hair was shinier, softer, and healthier. I think it would be a fabulous idea if you bought this conditioner and plus, it is only three dollars. Did I mention the bottle is really cool? Three dollars for three minutes daily...taken.
Posted by Livy at 3:47 PM 2 comments
Friday, March 21, 2008
Beauty Contest Ending Soon
The contest for a free beauty product is coming to an end in about a week, so get those entries in! The product I have decided on giving away is Vaseline Healthy Body Glow. I have been testing this product for a few weeks and the review should be coming soon. :) To win this product, send an email to me at ideasfromlivy@yahoo.com and tell me your favorite beauty product. Hurry hurry!
Posted by Livy at 12:49 PM 1 comments
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Bee Lieve Lotion
Easter is coming up this Sunday and a good product to put in your Easter basket is the Bee Lieve lotion. Bee Lieve products were made to inspire people by the healing affects of honey and aloe vera and also by including a Bible verse on the package. I thought this was a great idea and I tried the Honey Melonbee lotion. It is made for your whole body, but I recommend it only for your hands and other dry spots of your body. The lotion has a sweet smell and it is not overpowering. The lotion moisturizes really well and it makes my hands feel very soft. It was a bit greasy at first, but after a few minutes it soaked in. The lotion costs around nine dollars, so check out their site and you can look for places in your area that sell Bee Lieve products or purchase them online. Enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 12:32 PM 1 comments
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Free Sample from Vaseline
Walmart is offering a free sample of Vaseline Intensive Rescue Lotion. I am very fond of Vaseline's products so this should be a good one to try. I am testing their tanning lotion right now and a review is coming soon. :) You free sample awaits you here. Make sure to check out Walmart's other variety of samples. Enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 3:33 PM 3 comments
Spring Time
Wow! I walked on my pier at the lake that I live on and I was almost blown away, literally. It is so windy outside and the pier is rocking. It feels really good and I am enjoying this spring weather by doing many things. I jogged three miles one morning while soaking up the sun. Yesterday I charged up my iPod, which has been dead for two weeks, and walked on the pier. I am not much of an outdoorsy person, but I love being outside when the weather is like this. It is pretty nice to have more daylight because I was certainly missing it. The time change was hard at first, but now I am very happy about it. Also, one of the things I have been trying to do lately is drink a lot of water. If you are not so fond of plain water, you can try flavored water or use a mixture (my favorite is Crystal Light On the Go) to add to your bottled water. You can get a free sample of K2O protein and water mix when you purchase a box of Special K mixed berry cereal or other flavors. Enjoy this spring weather and don't take it for granted!
Posted by Livy at 2:21 PM 2 comments
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Crafty Invitations
My New Year's "aspiration" was to be creative. I wanted to make things for my friends and be crafty in general. It has been more complicated than I thought and I am having trouble finding time to do crafts. Nevertheless, I am having a party this week for my birthday and I decided to be super crafty and make some fabulous invitations. I wanted to make invitations that people would not want to throw away, and I think I achieved that. My party is out in the country where there is a creek and you are surrounded by nature. So, I wanted my invitations to reflect that atmosphere. The majority of the things I used to make my invitations were rubber stamps. The invitation: The background is water made with a stamp using blue ink symbolizing the creek. I stamped a pier in brown ink over the water. I got a sheet of white paper and stamped butterflies all over the page. I colored the butterflies and then cut them out. Tabs are very helpful when you wantsomething to stand off the page. They are little sticky squares that you put underneath something. I used tabs with the butterflies and with the squares of paper. You may be wondering how I did the squares of paper because it does look confusing. First, I cut out a bigger piece of textured green paper. Remember to always use a measuring tool, because I could not have done the invitation without one. After the textured paper, I cut some patterned ribbon and glued it around the invitation. Next, I cut out some light green paper and grass paper, each different sizes with the grass paper being the smallest. I glued the grass paper on top of the light green and put tabs underneath them. I stuck the layered paper to the textured paper. Finally, I used a stamp of little girls running on top of the grass paper and voila! You have the cover of your invitation. On the inside I used a stamp that said For, Date, Time, Place, and RSVP. I glued a sheer silk green leaf on top. Wow! They were pretty, but being crafty does require patience!
Posted by Livy at 8:43 AM 0 comments
Friday, March 14, 2008
Jane Shimmering Bronzer
I have been testing out Jane shimmering bronzer for the past few weeks. The bronzer costs around six dollars and I bought it at Walgreen's. The powder contains a variety of different colors ranging from brown to gold. The shade I am using is Tahiti (shown left) and it works well with my fair skin. The bronzer is not heavy and it is easy to wash off. It also gives you a nice glow to your face, but it does seem to fade throughout the day. When you use this product, your face does shimmer and it is noticeable. It is perfect for night time, but it still looks pretty during the day. The bronzer is sheer so you can add more until you get the shade you like. This compact also contains a small brush with a mirror, but investing in a better brush is a smart idea considering that the one it comes with does not work well. This is a good product if you want a glow with some shimmer and for six dollars, it is worth trying out. You can get that glow without the sun!
Posted by Livy at 5:38 PM 2 comments
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Jane Eyre: A Book Review
Jane Eyre is a good book written by Charlotte Bronte and was published in 1847. It is a story of a girl, Jane Eyre, who struggles through life with many disappointments and suffering. Jane was an orphan with a terrible childhood, and as she ages she encounters mysteries and tragedies that will affect her forever. She greives, loves, and grows as a person throughout this book. Jane inspires you to act with love because of her good nature and admirable character. It moves slowly at times, but it is a good book to read. Jany Eyre is more modern than other books written in that time period and it is a classic, so I recommend you read it. Enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 6:27 PM 0 comments
Saturday, March 8, 2008
A Chocolate Bath
Last night, I decided to pamper myself with a chocolate milk bath and a banana oatmeal facial. Both seemed to be disappointing. I pictured a luxurious chocolate bath that I could soak in for hours, and a delicious, strong smell that would make me want to drink it. When I first stepped into my brown bath, it smelled good but the scent soon faded. The chocolate stuck to my body because the recipe did not blend well. I took a shower after that to rinse my body and my tub off. I am still hooked on the idea of a nice chocolate bath, so there are more reviews to come. With the banana facial, I was also disappointed. It was very messy and did not stick to my face because it was so chunky. After a few minutes my face began to burn. The banana recipe is my own creation (a mix of dried oatmeal, honey, and a banana) and the chocolate recipe is from all free crafts. If you are in the mood for experimenting, I suggest you try the chocolate bath The banana facial, I would not even bother. How about a chocolate sundae?
Posted by Livy at 1:59 PM 2 comments
Friday, March 7, 2008
Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash
A couple of weeks ago I bought an eyebrow waxing kit from Bliss that was worth around $40, but I paid $8. Wow, talk about being a smart shopper! Shipping was about $7, which was a bit pricey, but I got some great freebies. One of them was an ounce of the Fabulous Foaming Face Wash and I have to say, it is fabulous! The face wash is blue and has a gel like texture and it foams up when you apply it to your face. The wash also contains tiny beads that are very soft and do not irritate sensitive skin. This product has an extraordinary smell! It contains rose hips, chamomile, and passion flower that all blend to make a sweet and refreshing scent. My skin felt very smooth afterwards and it does a good job of taking off your makeup. This face wash lasts a while, because a little goes a long way. I am about to buy an 8 oz. bottle of this face wash ($22), and I recommend you do the same. I have never found a face wash that achieves things this one does! This puts me in a blissful mood...
Posted by Livy at 3:52 PM 2 comments
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Fruit and Nut Bars
I happen to be a very faithful customer of Nature's Valley fruit and nut bars. They contain peanuts, raisins, honey, and cranberries. The bars keep you full and are a healthy snack. They are crunchy, chewy, and sweet all at the same time. You can buy them at any grocery store. They are not the cheapest snack, but they are definitely worth it. I suggest when you are hungry to grab this sin-free food. Delicious!
Posted by Livy at 4:24 PM 2 comments
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer
Life seems to be so hectic lately. Things that should be simple have suddenly complicated and nothing is easy anymore. Hint, my updating has been very irregular! Do I have a solution to make life completely wonderful and carefree? Well, not quite, but I do have something that can make life a little easier beauty-wise. The life or lip saver is Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer in watermelon. It moisturizes your lips and gives them a nice tint. I like this balm, but it is not my favorite shade. It is a very unnatural pink color that does not go with my fair skin. The balm does have a good, minty smell to it and it helps the cracks in my lips. It is for days when you either want to go for a “natural” look or make your lips look pretty, but not overpowering. It seems like the balm does not last very long, but overall this is a decent product. It costs around five dollars and for a 2 in 1 balm, that is nice. Color and moisture! Try it out and I suggest fair skin ladies to steer clear of the watermelon color. Enjoy and remember it is the little things in life that make a huge difference!
Posted by Livy at 3:54 PM 3 comments
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Neutrogena Healthy Volume
Everyone knows my HUGE addiction to mascara! I love trying a lot of different ones, and writing reviews on them. :)
So, my new mascara is Neutrogena Healthy Volume mascara in black brown. I love this mascara more than LashBlast, and it is about the same price. The mascara contains olive oil that penetrates your lashes to make them thick inside and out. Sounds wonderful, right? My lashes were nowhere near clumpy, and they looked thick. This mascara is extremely easy to apply. I love this brush more than others, because it is very thick. If you get a little smudge on the top of your eyelids, it wiped off my skin with a lick of my finger. Wow! No complaints here!
Don't forget about the amazing contest we have going! Win a FREE beauty product! There is more information at the side of the page.
Posted by Livy at 5:03 PM 4 comments
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Livy Has A Surprise!
Hello! I wanted to thank everyone for their support of my blog! It has been up and going for about a month and I am really enjoying myself. With every new subscriber, a big smile comes across my face. Today, tell me about a beauty product you have discovered and love. I want to hear from everyone, so leave a comment or email me at ideasfromlivy@yahoo.com. Did I mention there is going to be a prize? The winner is going to get a free beauty product that I adore! Tell your friends about this and good luck! :)
Posted by Livy at 4:56 PM 10 comments
Monday, February 25, 2008
An Enjoyable Listen
Sometimes, you need a break from the hip-hop and rock music that is playing on the radio. Something that is easy to listen to and actually has meaningful lyrics. I bought the CD Coco by Colbie Callait. You have heard of her! Does the song Bubbly ring any bells? If you like the song or not, I am sure you will adore her CD. I was not really fond of the song Bubbly, but there are some great songs on her album. If you prefer to buy a few songs rather that the whole album, I suggest Oxygen, One Fine Wire, Feelings Show, Midnight Bottle, and Tailor Made. These are songs that are upbeat and you can sing to or relax with. That is the perfect combination. I hope you enjoy the songs as much as I have!
Posted by Livy at 9:18 PM 2 comments
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Pain Free Beauty!
Beauty is pain... Not with this tool! Eyebrow shapers are a great way to shape your eyebrows and get rid of those hairs on your neck, arms, face, and bikini area. There are three in a package, in pink, blue, and green. The brand is Personna and it runs for about three dollars. What a bargain, considering these tools last a while! Plus, who wants to be hairy? When I tried these on my eyebrows and face, it was practically pain free. I removed the little hairs above my lip and on my face. The tool was easy to use and the blade was small, so it was easy to maneuver. The shapers are sold at Walgreen's. Good luck and happy shaping!
Posted by Livy at 8:24 PM 3 comments
Friday, February 22, 2008
Moisture of the Ocean Waves
I use a conditioner for my hair called Sydney Smooth by Aussie. The product is supposed to give your hair a sleek and frizz free look. It does not exactly succeed in making your hair sleek like a movie star, but the conditioner does give your hair moisture. When you apply the conditioner to your hair, it is absolutely amazing. Your hair feels healthy, smooth, and it smells delicious. Now remember, your hair is still wet at this point. When you rinse your hair, the smoothness of your hair is unbelievable. When my hair dried, it was still a bit frizzy, but my hair smelled good and was very shiny. My hair was sleeker when I blow dried, but I try to stay away from heat as much as I can. I recommend this product to anyone who is looking for a conditioner that provides moisture and a good scent to your hair. If your hair needs volume, repair, or shine, Aussie has got that covered with other products. Also, Aussie is not limited to just conditioner. They have shampoo, gel, and hairspray. The best part is that is only about three dollars. You could buy your whole hair care for under ten dollars! Enjoy Aussie girl!
Posted by Livy at 6:27 PM 3 comments
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Take Your Vitamins!
I recently started taking Nature's Bounty Multi-Day vitamins.They are small tablets that are easy to swallow. This supplement contains the important vitamins your body needs in every day life, and you only have to take one a day. My hair has been noticeably shinier, so do as your mother said, "Take your vitamins!" The vitamins cost around seven dollars for 100 caplets, and are available at most drugstores. I feel good knowing that I am getting my daily supply of vitamins. Be healthy and enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 6:05 PM 2 comments
Lovely Lips?
Sheer, shiny, natural, and pretty... Is it possible to achieve all of that, plus more in a lipstick? Of course! I found a new lipstick by CQ in a shade called Mimosa Bliss. It is a light, pink color that is easy to apply. The lipstick goes on smoothly and does not overpower your look. You can find it at Walmart or Ebay for a few dollars. Enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 5:46 PM 1 comments
My Mints, Please!
When checking out at your local grocery store, an assortment of mints surround you. Which ones to buy? My personal favorite is Eclipse in winterfrost. The mints are not very strong, but they give you long lasting fresh breath. I pop in a few at a time, and they last for several minutes. The best part is that they are only a dollar! No worries, the mints are filled to the very top in their tin case, so this is no trick. Have a minty day and enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 5:28 PM 0 comments
Feeling Blue?
About two months ago, I purchased a Toshiba HD-DVD player for around $450. Wow! That is a chunk of change! The player performed magnificantly, and the picture was so clear. A HD-DVD player is short for high defintion player, and it makes the picture look brilliant. The trouble was a competing technology, called Blu-Ray, was more popular than HD. At Walmart and other stores, a good selection of Blu-Ray movies existed, but the supply of HD movies was extremely limited. A few days ago, Toshiba discontinued HD format. Sad, right? People, including me, paid money for players and DVD's specifically for HD and now they no longer exist. That is a lot of money wasted because, HD-DVD's cannot play on Blu-Ray. It is not possible to play Blu-Ray movies on HD players, so you have to purchase another player. This is the risk you take when you buy new technology, and if you want to know more about it go to http://www.usatoday.com/money/media/2008-02-19-toshiba-quits-hd-dvd_N.htm?loc=interstitialskip. I guess I am switching to Blu-Ray...
Posted by Livy at 3:02 PM 2 comments
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Planning To Perfection
These past few weeks, I have been planning my trip to California this summer. I will spend a few weeks in San Francisco, Redwood National Park, and the mountains. I am incredibly excited about this trip! So. I thought now is the time to share some of my tips about planning. I researched activities using the search engine, goodsearch. Every time you search, money goes to the organization of your choice. Great idea! I suggest the charity for curing autism. When searching, I look up fun activities, places to go, hotels, and restaurants. Then, I print out pictures of different places, so I can have a visual of my trip. I put together a booklet, which is helpful to look back at. A poster makes a great display, too. The best part of planning is that you look forward to your trip, even if it is months away. I know I can't stop thinking about mine! It is early to start planning, but it is always better to be prepared and have your affairs in order. Enjoy these tips and happy planning!
Posted by Livy at 5:01 PM 3 comments
Monday, February 18, 2008
Polish It Up!
My new favorite nail polish color is O.P.I. Catherine the Grape. The color is a gorgeous purple and it is perfect for when you go out at night. It goes on smoothly with the full brush, and the color has a shiny tint to it. It makes your nails look well kept, even if they are not! So, just swipe some on, and you will look perfectly polished. I usually find O.P.I. products at a salon, and it costs around eight dollars. Are you ready to go out tonight?
Posted by Livy at 3:58 PM 5 comments
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Is Orange the New Bronze?
I recently tested Loreal's Sublime Bronze self tanning spray. I have to say, I am a bit disappointed. As soon as I began spraying, the cap broke off. I had to tape it back on and it was difficult to spray an even amount. The product's claim was that it would dry quickly and leave no greasy residue. That was not the case. The product took hours to dry and get rid of the greasy residue. The spray got all over my bathroom floor and was very slippery, so put a towel on the floor befor applying. The tan did develop after an hour, and I was impressed. Due to artificial lighting in my bathroom, it was difficult to tell which spots I missed. I suggest applying it during the day, so you can use natural light and see the true color of your tan. Because of the cold weather, I wore stockings the next day. I did not know I was tan enough and I applied another application that night. Again, the artificial lighting blinded me from seeing the spots I missed. This part is rather funny. I walked outside the next morning, and I was orange with a white streak up my leg! Not to mention, my feet and hands were horrible looking. Orange and blotchy! So, my tips for spray tanning are to use natural lighting, one application is enough until it starts to fade, and scrub your hands after applying. Also, do not spray your feet. Spray a little on your hands, and rub it in. For those awful streaks, Loreal has some wipes. Best of luck when spray tanning! I am going to test a few more self tanning products soon, because I am not happy with this one.
Posted by Livy at 2:52 PM 2 comments
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Fool's Gold
Last night, I had the privilege of seeing the movie, Fool's Gold. It was really cute and entertaining. Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey acted great in the movie and they make a cute duo. Overall, the movie was clever and funny and I enjoyed it thoroughly, but the price to get in the door was outrageous! I spent seven dollars on a ticket, five on a Coke, five on nachos, and three on some Raisinettes. Hey, I eat a lot when I see a movie! So, the question is, how can I save money when I go to see a movie? I don't want to cut back on the amount of food I eat. Munching is the key to any movie, and franky, I can't afford to spend 13 dollars on food every time I see a movie. So, here are a few recipes that are easy, sneaky, and somewhat healthy!
- I loved eating raisins dipped in chocolate last night. Why not strawberries? This recipe is quick and easy. All you need is chocolate chips, cream, and strawberries. Mix and dip! Mmm...
- Grapes! Pop them in your mouth one after the other. Mix different flavors up like green and purple. Put them in a little baggy and you are set.
- Mixed nuts is one of my favorite snacks. The brand, Emerald, makes little baggies of mixed nuts that are of high quality and really filling. The bag is not filled with a bunch of unhealthy peanuts, but with walnuts, cashews, almonds, and brazilian nuts. Crunchy!
Posted by Livy at 2:53 PM 3 comments
Not So Sweet
Vitamin Water is normally yummy. My personal favorite is the Multi-V Vitamin Water. It has a lemonade flavor that sweet, but not overdoing it. There is one flavor I tried that you need to steer clear from. The Energy Tropical Citrus (to the left). Yuck! If you need some energy, just grab a Coke. This natural energy is not worth it, but everyone has their own flavor they like. So try some Vitamin Water and tell me what you think!Do you know something else that is not so sweet? Republican presidential dropout, Mitt Romney, endorses John McCain. You should see the clip! They look so uncomfortable!
Posted by Livy at 9:22 AM 0 comments
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Lucky You!
Are you a lucky girl? I know I am! I wear the sweet-smelling Lucky You perfume. It smells amazing. The fragrance has a blend of light flowers and fresh citrus, with lower notes of musk and sandalwood amber. It is a casual, daytime fragrance and you can buy for as low as 18 dollars for an ounce. Wow! I say head to your local drugstore today!
Posted by Livy at 4:39 PM 2 comments
A Cool Touch For Your Eyes!
Are your eyes looking a little dull these days? Say no more! Rimmel has an amazing product called Cool Touch Shadow that gives your eyes a little sparkle and shine. It is a cream shadow that makes your eyes noticeable! My only complaint is that it squirts out very quickly, so be careful. Dab a teeny bit on your finger and distribute the shadow evenly on your lids. If you use too much, it will be difficult to have an even look. I received these shadows for Christmas, and I have fallen in love with them. The shadow works really well and does not fade or smear, and it dries really quickly.
I have Cool Touch shadow in (from left to right) Cool Down, Ice Princess, Cool It, and On Ice.
Not the most original names, but truly a great product! Try it out! The shadow is very affordable and is available at any drugstore. My favorite? Cool Down. Really looks great paired with my brown LashBlast mascara. Enjoy!
Posted by Livy at 3:59 PM 0 comments
Monday, February 11, 2008
Eyes. Lips. Face.
Love makeup, but have trouble affording it? Well here is your solution! E.l.f. (Eyes.Lips.Face.) is a cosmetic brand that is fantastic for anyone who is on a budget. Almost everything on their site is only a dollar! Can you beleive that?! I know what you are thinking, there is no way makeup can only be a dollar. Well it is true. As soon as I heard about this brand, I went straight to their site and ordered all my new makeup from there for under twenty dollars! You can get brushes, mascara, blush, foundation, etc! The makup is of great quality also. I recommend this to anyone, whether you are on a budget or not. So try it out and let me know what you think! --Cami =]
Posted by Cami at 8:55 PM 3 comments
Mineral Makeup, Anyone?
Do you like wearing heavy, liquid makeup? Personally, I prefer to go a bit more natural. I have found a new product that I loved the first time I tried it. My discovery is I.D. Bare Minerals. You have seen the commercials, but maybe you did not give it another thought. It is made from 100% pure bareMinerals and does not include any talc, fragrance, or other skin irritants, often found in other products. The weightless powder contains SPF 15, which protects your skin from the sun. When I put it on, it evened out my skin and covered my blemishes, while giving my skin a natural look. There is another powder you apply called "warmth" that gives your face a beautiful glow. My skin looks and feels pretty when I use this product. It may seem pricey, but it comes with many different brushes and powder and is worth the investment. I recommend this product for anyone who wants gorgeous, natural skin. I love it!
Posted by Livy at 4:36 PM 2 comments
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Berrylicious!
Are you trying to eat healthy? That was one of my New Year's aspirations and it is likely others had the same one, too. My mornings since then do not consist of donuts and other sweets. I start my mornings off with Special K cereal with red berries. Now, you are probably asking why I am dedicating a post in my blog to this cereal. The answer is simple! It is really delicious! The strawberries taste like real strawberries, not like your normal, dried berries. The cereal has just enough crunch, and a load of flavor. To make it even better, it is super healthy. If strawberries are not your thing, there are other types you can try like, Chocolatey Delight, Cinnamon Pecan, Vanilla Almond, and Fruit and Yogurt. On your next stop to the local grocery store, pick up a box of Special K cereal. You will not regret it becuse this cereal is sin free!
Posted by Livy at 9:09 PM 2 comments
Saturday, February 9, 2008
An Extra Boost to Your Eyes!
Eye Magnifier by Rimmel London is a great second layer mascara. The great special tip applicator gets rid of the clumps the other mascara leaves behind! It seperates your lashes while making them longer at the same time, giving your eyes a wider, fuller look than before! However, sometimes you need to apply more than one coat of the mascara to get the full effect. I reccomend this to anyone who wants an extra, special touch to their eye makeup. You will definitely notice the difference as soon as you apply this product. This product is at an affordable price and you can find this at almost any drugstore, unlike other products that do almost the exact same thing.
Posted by Cami at 4:03 PM 0 comments
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Change is Great!
Wow! Today has been absolutely crazy! I decided to dye my hair last night. It was my seventh time, I might add. I changed it to dark brown and I truly love it. It gave me a boost of confidence because it is such a drastic change. I feel like a different person when I look at myself in the mirror. My hair looks and feels healthier and it was a fun and bold thing to do. Next weekend, I am planning on doing my friend's hair. She is ready for a change and really wants to experiment with her look. If you do want to mix it up, know that the non-permanent dye will fade, but if it is a super drastic color, like red, the tint could stay in. I learned that from experience, but there are a lot of good things about dying your hair. It is fun, daring, and makes your hair look fabulous! If you want to be more conservative, try a different hairstyle or play with your makeup. I have learned that change is good, as scary as change may be. Have fun!
Posted by Livy at 6:39 PM 4 comments