Dry skin is no fun and I have tried a variety of things to combat the condition.  Curel Hydratherapy is an in-the-shower moisturizer that is easy to use.  Apply to the skin as you come out of the shower and pat dry.  It helps immediately but I prefer a longer acting moisturizer and have found argan oil/butter to be a better solution.  It lasts all day without being sticky and can add a soft fragrance.  I use it on GD all the time.

Since it is a yucky weather day, we need a lovely fragrance!

I am enjoying Estee Lauder Fragrance Treasures ~

I have worn Beautiful over the years and it is a nice floral as is Pleasures (the top 2).  I am not crazy about Modern Muse so I will give that away.  * This set is still available if you like this line ~ they are purse size sprays.  A convenient way to try out different scents.

I love crackers and they are my go-to snack when the migraines begin.  This is a fun grown-up version and makes a nice gift when you need a small, quick gift to take.  I made this frequently in my catering days and it was always popular.  Everyone has their version of this recipe so add any ingredients that you like.

 

Easy ranch snack mix

                                                                      Ingredients 
1 cup veg oil (You may not need the entire amount depending on how many ingredients are added)
1 packet of ranch dip mix
Add your favorite seasoning = oregano, dill, al purpose *I add a TBS of rosemary and a can of mixed nuts for adults
1 cup rice/wheat cereal - if you like it
1 bag of fish shaped cheddar crackers
1cup white cheddar crackers
1 bag oyster crackers
2cups small pretzels
1 cup peanuts

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees 
2. Combine oil and all flavorings
   On a baking sheet  combine the rest of the ingredients. Stir to mix.  Drizzle oil over the snack mixture ~ stir well.

Bake the mixture, stirring every 15 minutes for about 1/2 hour. Remove from oven and spread on paper towels. Cool.

**Here are a zillion other options: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/273171533626271463 

                                               Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheSweetPinkShop?ref=hdr_shop_menu
New things will be listed everyday as the brick & mortar shop is closed. 

https://www.webstore.com/user,pgr,211269,owner_id,other_items
The place for designer & high-end make up at a discount!

 Pink isn't just a color ~ it's an attitude! 

~ All items purchased by me unless otherwise noted ~
                               Linking up with these fabulous bloggers here

Spring is on the way so it is time to wear my favorite color ~ Pink!

I rarely wear the bracelet but I am happy to look at it!  As GD says - This will be mine someday!
I tend to be cold so I wear the t-shirts under the velour hoodie - even during the summer ~ why do restaurants have to be so cold??!!!!
Unfortunately these eyes are getting a migraine - heaven forbid I should go a day without one! Migraineurs ~ when you are getting sick do you crave anything?  I have found over the years I turn to carbs.  If I am out, french fries help me - it seems to turn down the nausea that always starts with the head pain.  This has never stopped the migraine but it beats being nauseous!!  The food does help me take my meds - and keep them down.  Do you have a go-to food/drink?
Also pain sufferers ~ you probably know that pain can increase your blood pressure which can make you feel worse.  Be mindful and listen to your body - take the time to rest and slow down until you begin to feel better.  Please take care of yourself.

I have almost finished half this bottle of Jimmy Choo perfume.  This scent includes caramel and tiger orchid and is sultry and softly smokey.  Very long lasting fragrance.        I will probably buy this again.
 

Easy butter & stuffing chicken ~ crispy chicken without frying!

Bake 350deg - I like mine very well done so I left this in the oven 11/2 hrs
Stuffing box mix - put in a zipped bag and mash the stuffing to small pieces
Melt butter in shallow dish to dredge the chicken
Have a sheet pan lined with foil
Pat chicken in stuffing crumbs and add salt & pepper-I also added some oregano
Place on pain and bake- I did not turn the chicken - just let it bake until done.
The chicken was moist and flavorful.
I added a baked potato and corn for dinner - so easy!

My gang liked this and the chicken thighs have been.69 cent a lb lately - a very good price for the main dish.
*^. ^* Next week  I will share my snack mix I made during my catering days including the adult version - delicious & easy!


                                                Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheSweetPinkShop?ref=hdr_shop_menu
New things will be listed everyday as the brick & mortar shop is closed. 

https://www.webstore.com/user,pgr,211269,owner_id,other_items
The place for designer & high-end make up at a discount!

 Pink isn't just a color ~ it's an attitude! 

~ All items purchased by me unless otherwise noted ~
                               Linking up with these fabulous bloggers here

If you like La Vie Est Belle and Flowerbomb perfumes you will like Givenchy Live Irrésistible Eau de Parfum.   This was part of a set I got during the holidays.  The above perfumes are always in my dressing room but I enjoy trying new scents esp I when I can buy a smaller version.
        With notes of Rose, Orange Blossom, Vanilla, Caramel this fragrance is a lovely combination of woodsy, sweet & floral spices.  Some state they smell pineapple but I don't - but definitely the roses which I love.  This perfume lasted a very long time for me, as the others tend to fade after a few hours - which helps counteract the cost.  I try to buy my perfumes when there is a discount because as a daily migraineur I cannot use fragrance every day ~ and I miss it!

This duo from Philosophy is a fun item: Peppermint Stick Shower Gel and Lip gloss (from the after Christmas sales).

It does have the peppermint flavor but not too strong and is moisturizing.  This will easily be gone by spring!  I am sure Philosophy will offer similar combinations during the holidays and this will make a great gift.  Many companies do 'Christmas in July' events so be on the lookout for various offerings during that time period and get part of your gifts (even for yourself ~ You are special!!) set aside and saving money. 

I have been craving potatoes lately and love making my smashed potatoes.  Using red potatoes, cook in boiling water until very tender - I leave the skins on.  Drain the water off and add butter, a few TBS of milk (optional) and salt & pepper.  I always make extra because they are easily re-heated for another day.  These potatoes offer many minerals our bodies need: 12 to 15 percent of the daily value for magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and manganese, and 27% of potassium.

These can be jazzed up by adding rosemary/oregano or marjoram and garlic and a splash of olive oil.  Everything you add to these only make them better!

It is that special time of year ~ Girl Scout Cookies are on sale!  Being a wonderful Mimi, I bought my fair share!  Yes, I have already opened some and they are delicious - they can easily be frozen for a later time.

                                            Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheSweetPinkShop?ref=hdr_shop_menu
New things will be listed everyday as the brick & mortar shop is closed. 

https://www.webstore.com/user,pgr,211269,owner_id,other_items
The place for designer & high-end make up at a discount!

 Pink isn't just a color ~ it's an attitude! 

~ All items purchased by me unless otherwise noted ~
                               Linking up with these fabulous bloggers here

I had to treat myself to the Collector's Edition of bareMinerals Deluxe Mineral Veil.  It's a generous .84oz and of course it was on sale!

Especially during spring & summer, many times this is all the coverage I need.  It is so fine ~ almost impossible to over-do and is translucent.  I add moisturizer & sunscreen before applying.

Becca Wake Up Call Kit - Natural Glow Travel Duo is a nice travel friendly glow kit and perfect for all year. It is definitely worth the retail of $15 but I am fairly sure I got it with an extra 20% off.

I applied heavily so it could be seen but it sheers out nicely. Not too sparkly - just a soft glow especially around the eyes.
This is another of my Becca favorites:

Soft Light Blurring Powder (I use almost every day!).  It really is a soft filter type of powder that is not sparkly - this will last a long time.

Spaghetti sauce ready for the freezer.  The grandchildren love when I serve this.  Little GD is interested in becoming a chef so we play a 'taste' game.  Whatever I am cooking she tastes and tells me the ingredients she can identify - like the sauce = she can taste the tomatoes, salt/pepper, oregano, onion etc.  I think it helps her appreciate different flavors and how to incorporate them in various dishes.  She loves playing with the utensils I used as a caterer.  Someone to cook for me in my old age!

                                                 Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheSweetPinkShop?ref=hdr_shop_menu
New things will be listed everyday as the brick & mortar shop is closed. 


https://www.webstore.com/user,pgr,211269,owner_id,other_items


 Pink isn't just a color ~ it's an attitude! 

~ All items purchased by me unless otherwise noted ~
                               Linking up with these fabulous bloggers here

I am enjoying room sprays by Philosophy.  I have both Amazing Grace (which is part of the 20th anniv/special edition) and Snow Angel.  This time of year I like to keep the rooms in a nice scent without the 'Christmasy tree'/pine scent.

This is a lovely eye shadow palette: Party Eyes by Clinque

These colors are perfect if you like a smokey eye - includes a mirror and double-ended brush.  There seem to be about 3 that are sparkly ~ the others have some shimmer ~ 14 colors in total.  Limited Edition

If you travel this kit is perfect!  All the Strivectin prods I use in travel size.  It is also a great way to try these items.  I have used these for years and they are definitely worth the money.  A great way to treat wrinkles without irritation.

It is too cold here!  I went outside to watch the snow and came inside with red cheeks!

But what a great way to save on blush!!

This time of year with the cold temps makes me want comfort food.  I love brie cheese - so creamy and delicious with crackers.  I am serving this as a starter with spaghetti today.

What is your must have comfort food?

                                               Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheSweetPinkShop?ref=hdr_shop_menu
New things will be listed everyday as the brick & mortar shop is closed.
Vintage Gucci purse recently added!

 Pink isn't just a color ~ it's an attitude! 

~ All items purchased by me unless otherwise noted ~
                               Linking up with these fabulous bloggers here

 I got this advent cosmetic calendar for myself and it has been fun trying new products.

I will not use everything but the DIL will take them.  I have wanted to try Paula's Choice Skin Perfection which was included and the Clark's Botanical Age-Defying Radiance Cream is new to me and has a nice soft rose fragrance. 

This time of year gets me in an 'organize' mood so I have been going through items I have not used in years, like this turquoise necklace - as a matter of fact, I am putting it up for sale on Etsy since it is a vintage piece.

  I keep my silver in an armoire that is lined with tarnish resistant material and it is very effective - but if a piece is not used frequently it will need some minor cleaning.  I also keep the platinum pieces in this one.

I have a separate armoire for the gold pieces.

I had a bunch of bananas that were past their prime so my Banana Walnut Bread is in order.  I have tweaked this recipe over the years and am happy with how this turned out.  There are still several batches of bread & muffins in the oven ~ I doubled the recipe.  Since it is only 22 deg here in the South, a marathon baking session is perfect timing!

 This has been my trusty kitchen companion for over 20 yrears.  I could not get along without it!

Recipe
3 1/2 cups  Flour (all purpose)
3 cups sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking soda and 1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
1 Tb vanilla
1 tsp nutmeg & 1/2 tsp allspice (optional)
4 eggs
2/3 cup water and 1 cup veg oil
2 -2 1/2 cups of mashed bananas
1 cup nuts- walnut or pecan
 Spray the pans with non-stick spray - Heat oven to 350 deg
Combine everything in a large bowl and pour into pans
Bake for about an hour - until firm ~ I always use a toothpick to test the center - it should come out clean.
This freezes well.

                                        Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheSweetPinkShop?ref=hdr_shop_menu
New things will be listed everyday as the brick & mortar shop is closed.
Vintage Gucci purse recently added! 

  Pink isn't just a color ~ it's an attitude! 

~ All items purchased by me unless otherwise noted ~
                               Linking up with these fabulous bloggers here