Since I had to have shots in my back I was rewarded with this:

These may be better than pain killers!!

I decided to try lengthening mascara (I only use waterproof) and I am happy with this product - Maybelline Illegal Length Mascara:

 This was not clumpy & did not have a bunch of noticeable fibers - I am going to stockpile this next Ulta sale.
And speaking of Ulta - they had their eye shadows Buy 2 - Get 2 free, so I chose these:

Starting at the top left: Bloom, Haight & Ashbury, Zephyr & Calla Lily.  I always love colors in the lavender/orchid range so of course I have been thrilled with the color of the year - I dread seeing it come to an end.
So I might as well comfort myself with this:

I am not usually drawn to summery fragrances but this is lovely & am so glad I bought it.  It will definitely be gone by the end of summer!

Have a great weekend my lovelies!!

I just cannot get over some corp person stating to not wash jeans.  That is just completely past nasty!  I make everyone take their shoes off at the door so to not wash your clothing is mind blowing!

I recently read a blog in which she talks about the items she likes for the month - I can barely contain myself to a couple of days!! I can always find something I like or at least enjoy trying out - even though it may not stay in my permanent rotation.
This time of year bronzers are a part of everyday makeup but look at the different variations in the color of bronzers:

From left to right: Physician's Formula, Physician's Formula Bronze Booster,Physician's Formula Healthy Wear with SPF 50 in Natural Beige and the last one is Wet n'Wild "Reserve Your Cabana" with SPF 15, which is really the lightest shade.  So as a rule, I begin the early spring with the light shades & use the darker shades for contouring & shading and then as the season goes on, I can use the darker shades as make up on top of moisturizer.  These are not expensive so there is no guilt in having a variety!

As a note to all of you in my generation - was it not wonderful to see Steve Perry on stage again!
https://music.yahoo.com/blogs/live/don-t-stop-believin---steve-perry-returns-to-the-stage-182006597.html
Besides the beautiful music he & Journey are known for; he also loved & lost a woman to breast cancer and showed others that's what real men do - stand my their loved ones thru it all.
Did I mention that I adore Steve Perry ????
( http://www.simplesequins.com - This is especially for you!)

 

One of our sweetest bloggers is leaving the blogging world:
http://shalunyaboyet.blogspot.com/
She provided info on good products & good deals on a regular basis - the sweetness inside easily came out thru her writing.  I will miss you Shalunya!

I need some ideas: if you are designing your walk-in closet what are the most important features?  In the past I thought hanging space was how to use the most valuable closet real estate; now I am not so sure - should it be pull out drawers or open shelving- help a girl out!
I currently have a separate dressing room but this will probably be included with the closet. This downsizing will not be fun but there will so much less to keep clean!

New haircut!!! 

As always Miss Dawn performs miracles - I love her - the daughter I never had!

I recently ordered Cargo's blush, Tonga & I so love it! It is perfect without being too
pinky, peachy or bronz-y.   

I hope you are having a nice day & be good to yourself!

I have recently tried Too Faced Better Than False Lashes:

I am not someone to wear false eye lashes - it's just too hot & humid in the South but I definitely want a full look.  This product is a multiple step process but it goes on smoothly & dries quickly.  This is my do-it-yourself look:

Yes, I will buy it again but there are a couple more similar products I want to try first.

Here is a diagram on contouring for most of us:


 As a rule, darker colors push back areas while lighter colors bring them forward.
 Of course this will take serious blending but for a special occasion it would be worth it.

Here are products that I plan to try this week:

        
                                             

 I am a big fan of StriVectin and use it almost daily - this is the newest version.
The No 7 intense Serum has  been clinically shown to improve deep lines & is hypo-allergenic. It's from the Boots Comp in England and is fairly easy to find in the US.  I am excited to try this.
The 32 piece eye shadow set and the Shimmer Gloss set from elf was only $4.99 at TJ Maxx.  This should be a fun set.
Have a great Tues!    
                                                                                                                       

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Today my daughter-in-law graduated Phi Beta Kappa which is considered to be the nation's most prestigious honor society. She accomplished this while handling 2 young children.  But whenever she needed to get work/projects completed, we took the little ones for as long as needed  - which is never a problem because I can't see my grandchildren enough - I could see them everyday!  She wants to teach and become a professor & I know she will be a good one.

                                               Congrats Jennifer!!!!!!!!!!

I have let my layers grow out while my back healed & I don't like it - I am going to have to go shorter for the summer, so fortunately I have a hair appt on Sat. I want major layers.

I like this version of my style:

Or this:      

I know it's hard to believe but my hair color is exactly the same in both photos - windows & a flash make such a difference!

Apparently this eye shadow has become a cult classic & I can see why - neutral matte colors & made in the USA!

I found this at Target & there were only 2 left.  What is your favorite eye shadow brand?
I plan to go to Ulta this weekend, so enable me!!!!!!

I want to welcome my new followers - I am delighted to know you & since we love the same things, we have plenty to talk about.  Be assured I will not recommend anything I have not used and I purchase all the items I use. I have a number of younger followers & I am thrilled they can learn from my mistakes.

Barring a migraine attack, I plan to go to Ulta on Sunday & probably lose my mind!
I want a new perfume but this probably is not the best time to buy it because the summer scents are so citrus, coconut & beachy.  I am not even crazy about spring/summer clothes.  But never fear - I am sure I will come out of that store with purchases!!

I have a Linkup site on the right where I acknowledge blog hops I participate in. Now, if this is not adequate for your blog hop requirements, just send me a note & I will delete your entry.  There is just not enough room to feature every logo for each blog, so I think this is the fairest way. Also, you are receiving free advertising everyday, while our blog listing only lasts on your site for about a day before readers move on.

Now that it is May, here is my public service announcement:

                    STAY OUT OF THE SUN!!!!

I have decided that I am going to send some of the designer bags to a consignment shop- at least I can share some of the good times I had.  I really want a new Chanel (of course not the one I have!)  Maybe when I feel better I will have a solid idea of what color to get (which will probably be black, like the one I already own!!!!!!!!!!!!)  I would love a pink one but it won't be practical enough for everyday.  What do you think - a practical bag that can go thru all the seasons - what is your 1st choice?

 Do you 'double clean'?  I have started using this method - I start with a facial cleansing cloth, like Pond's and then use the Clarisonic with Neutrogena's Ultra Gentle Daily Cleasner - it has a pump top which makes it so easy to use:

After having tried the face peel, I am seeing softer lines & am happy with the outcome -

I will definitely be trying it again! (the pict below has no make up!)

 I used the Organix Sea Mineral Shimmering Moisture on my hair & I love the soft shimmer it provides - the Coconut Water Hydration Oil is also very nice and I intend to store a back up of these products!  They will be great for summer or winter.
Do you have favorite summer hair products? What are your holy grails?
ETA:  I now have a link up list on the right side - this will make it easier to visit our favorite blogs.

I had some time to myself so I tried the 30% peel & I am very pleased.  Now, understand, my skin is used to retin A & 14% glycolic so my skin is not a newbie -  but my skin feels very soft & the smile lines look great. This is what I used:

Always check with your medical prof before trying something new.

Back pain is still a problem for me and I feel I am not getting anything done for spring cleaning - I will probably still be trying to complete it when fall rolls around!  And 1/3 of the year is already gone!!!!!  Time is going by too quickly & these 2 munchkins are growing far too quickly. They were here for Easter & I already miss them.

As it gets closer to the 80's here in the South, I am thinking about a light powder I can use when I just want to go out & do errands. Physicians Formula Mineral Wear with oxygen technology which also has SPF 20 is going to be my first winner.  There was a touch of shimmer on the top of the design but it brushed right off - I don't want shimmer all over my face.  It has a light texture & will be enough coverage to go to the grocery store:

Have you got a new discovery that you would like to share?  Let me know so I can give it a try!

I got a sample of the new perfume 'Dolce' from Dolce & Gabbana and it is Spring in a bottle!  It is a floral combination of white amaryllis & neroli and I thoroughly enjoy it!  Here is more info:
* Top notes: Neroli leaves, Papaya flower
* Heart notes: White Amaryllis, White Daffodil, White Water Lily
* Dry down notes: Cashmeran, Musky notes, Sandalwood


My Dr's appt got me another Dr's appt - the fun just keeps on coming!  Now the idea of sticking a needle in my back will not be a good time, but at least it's not a spinal tap!
If this does not qualify for an excuse to buy a new perfume, I don't know what will !
So you still have time to join this lovely group of ladies & have a chance to win a new eye shadow palette - just use the 'join' button on the right.  As a reminder, I can only mail within the US right now. As soon as my Dr. releases me, I will choose a lucky participant to win the eye shadow giveaway! (I have been stashing samples that will also be included )   I can't wait!!                                                                                                            

I have been hesitant to use some of the facial oils that have come out but I am enjoying Peter Thomas Roth's Oilless Oil 100% Purified Squalane.  It absorbs quickly with no greasy feeling & goes on gently around the eye area.  Apparently it is made from sugarcane and is for all skin types.  It definitely adds light moisture with no shine.  I think this is a keeper.

I hope the weather is playing nice where you are - it is cold here today but we should have 70's again in a couple of days.  My 2 adorable grandchildren will be here for the weekend so there will be happy laughing, bubble baths and way too many treats!!


For the grandchildren

 

And for me -
I could love these forever!!
 







 










I hope your weekend is wonderful! 
                                                                     
ETA: I am compiling a list of link ups & blog hops that I participate in but kindly give me some time as I am a daily migraineur & blogger is being very difficult!  Apparently adding a list is this side of rocket science!!!!!!!!!!

Here are some products that I am loving;

Alpha Hydrox Intensive Serum with 14% glycolic aha is doing a good job of softening the  smile lines.  I have not had any sensitivity and I think I will get brave & try a 30% acid peel.

I also like the Alterna Caviar Anti-aging Hair Spray.  It is soft without heavy fragrance and the spray is very fine so you can't over concentrate the product in one area. It is easy to work with and I never leave the house without hair spray!

http://www.walkinginmemphisinhighheels.com/2014/04/trend-spin-linkup-week-43-colors.html#more is showcasing color this week & it made me remember shoes that I love & never wear!

The top pair are a great teal color - as much as I like these, I have not worn them in the past year so maybe it's time to let go.....I can always use more closet space!
I am off to visit  http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com & www.over50feeling40.com

Have mercy, he is gorgeous!!

Ok, on to the topics at hand!
 If you are a platinum member at Ulta, you can get 20% off currently.  I am getting ready to pull the trigger on my order which includes:   Strivectin,

Quenched Sea Mineral Moisture Shimmering Weightless Healing Oil

Maybelline Full & Soft Thick & Healthy Waterproof Mascara

Alpha Hydrox Intensive Serum

And of course this favorite perfume:

Details-

"La vie est belle", a French expression meaning "Life is beautiful"; the manifesto of a new era. Universal yet personal, Lancome's femininity is a choice embraced by women, not an imposed standard. The choice to live one's life and fill it with beauty. Your own way.

• Top Note: The elegance of Iris becomes the backbone of the fragrance. It blossoms from the first to the last note like never before
• Middle Note: The strength of Patchouli gives strength and depth
• Base Note: A sweet gourmand adds a burst of unexpected radiance                              I absolutely love this fragrance & can't wait for it to get here.  The only down side is that scent is a migraine trigger for me - but there is always pain meds!!!  Do find your signature fragrance & wear it all the time - you owe it to yourself!  It's time to put yourself first!!!!!!!!!!!            

Today is a very warm day here in the South and one of the most important things we can do to protect our skin is use BB cream - it comes in liquid or powder & I use it every time I go out:

(BB stands for beauty balm)
All of these have sunscreen which is important to use everyday.  I use these interchangeably after I have applied moisturizer.  You cannot go wrong with any of these, as I have sensitive skin & none of these products have caused me any trouble.
Please use something to protect your skin everyday - you will be glad you did!

Since the migraine has passed, I wanted to mention the color match technology that is available at Sephora.  There is no longer any reason to buy the wrong color of foundation.  Now, I personally prefer the Greensboro location & use Candace as my SA but I have not been to the W-S Sephora in a long time so it's possible things have changed there.  If you page down to older posts, I give more info about my experience with color matching when I went on a hot, muggy day and the results were wonderful.  Candace is a trained makeup professional & I always enjoy her company.

As I am still on bed rest, I am forever clicking the remote in a vain attempt to find something entertaining.  I came across the HSN shopping network & saw they are featuring Too Faced cosmetics - I have never shopped there but was impressed they had such a high end collection.  I have had this palette for a while & it's fun & handy- it's called the "No Makeup Makeup" by Too Faced:

It includes: Bronzing Veil, Creme Blush, Powder Blush, Concealer, Luminizer & Brightener, along with a tin compact case with small mirror & instructions.

I don't use this very often but it is convenient - you have everything you need in one tin box which will protect it in the suitcase.
They frequently do palettes like this so you could check with Ulta.

" A smile is the best makeup any girl can wear "

My heart is broken - my best friend is moving out-of-state & I understand it but still hate it.  We have so much in common - we can even go a month & not see each other & we just pick up & keep going.  I have shed tears over this but she will be closer to her daughter & grandchildren and I want this for her.  But I can't stop the tears.  I am going to need a new bottle of Jack Daniels.

OK, apparently I need to fill my day so maybe I should reconsider my closet-here are a few pics but I still cannot reach up very far so I just may be brave & pull out pieces I have not worn in a long time - this will need to include my handbag collection:

This end of the walk-in has a full length mirror in the middle & surrounded by peg board so I can hang things up(I refuse to show the floor=things that are not hung up!!)
I am someone that must carry the world around with me so some of these bags are not large enough but were gifts - I know that is no excuse not to de-clutter!  I guess I could find a consignment shop esp for the things that still have tags on them.  But you know how it goes - as soon as something is gone, I will want it back!  Is there a pill for that??
I have a bag similar to the one shown on  http://www.walkinginmemphisinhighheels.com/
Both of mine are Dooney & Bourke & have never been used but I probably will eventually!
This was yesterday's weather:

and today it is bright & sunny = spring in the South! Hope you are having good weather.
I am off to visit:  http://searchingtheinnerme.blogspot.pt

Once again we are getting sleet & snow so I need cheering up and this will definitely do it! 
 
This is a great value if you enjoy the Flowerbomb perfume.  Here is some of the info about the scent:
Sambac Jasmine, Centifolia Rose, Cattleya Orchid, Ballerina Freesia, Patchouli.
Style:  Oriental, Gourmand, Floral.
I love roses & freesia so this is a nice combination for me.

 For the approximate cost of the perfume, you also receive the body cream & shower gel.  I was also eligible for several nice free samples of products that I have never tried:
* Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Ferulic & Retinol Anti-Aging Moisturizer
*  Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes™ 4-in-1 Mascara
*  Ole Henriksen Sheer Transformation
Thank you Sephora!

I hope you are having better weather.  I have been putting off going to the Dr. but when it becomes nice I will not have an excuse. But this cold & damp weather is bothering my back - honestly, getting old is not for sissies!!!!!!!!!!

Hope you have a great week which includes the official start of spring!

I found this ribbon in shades of the 2014 Color of the Year & I think this will be lovely on this year's Christmas tree.  It will give a refreshing pop of color - after all, it's only 290 days until Christmas!

  The interesting thing is that I bought this ribbon well over a year ago - long before Pantone decided on the Color of the Year - maybe they will check with me later this year to see what I think will be the Color of the Year for 2015!!!  But I could live with Radiant Orchid for a long time.

So many of my favorite bloggers are showing great outfits & I appreciate the opportunity to link up, but no one wants to see my pajamas, which is all that is accommodating my broken back.  I am ready to wear something else but I still have to rest flat on my back all during the day.  So I am trying to entertain my wonderful readers with other things: makeup, jewelry, shoes & a cute granddaughter!

I am so loving this shoe!

Charles David 'Passion' Pointy Toe Pump   $249.95

• • 4" heel (size 8 1/2).
  • Suede or leather upper/leather lining and sole.
  • By Charles David; made in Spain.

 But I have to say as I look at some outfits featuring torn jeans & high heels - this is not really an original look since every 20-something is doing it.  I don't know what happened but dressing in a pretty way has disappeared.

For those of you in my generation, James Taylor is coming for 2 shows in NC.  I remember seeing him in concert when I was 16 - and he was cute as a button -
oh, and the concert was good too!!  As a daily migraineur, concerts are impossible for me but it brings back nice memories that he is returning to his roots  ( his dad was a prof at UNC). Welcome back, Sweet Baby James!

James Taylor
Taylor in late 1970s

Be sure to visit us gals at  http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.com/
It really is a fun site!

As I looked thru the new fashion magazines that arrived, this thought came to me:
 I love that the name "ombre" had to be created to explain why people will not maintain their hair color!   There are so many lovely colors out there  -  STOP!!

 I open my email from Estee Lauder & see some pics from the fall runway & this is what they are showing!
Pools of grey & green - where is the color of the year?  -  I will not be purchasing "Camo Chrome" for fall.  This poor girl looks like someone smacked her!
I can't stand it any more - on to something that is cute to look at :
Do you think she will be able to find a date for the prom?

She is coming this weekend & has requested cupcakes with sprinkles - I hope all her wants are this simple for now & forever!