I love makeup. I'm not particularly great at makeup, but I like it.
I like trying out new things, I like finding new products, I like making my skin feel better.

When I moved to Dallas I had a coworker who loved makeup, too.
She moved on to a different job -- and so now I'm sharing all my finds with you!

Bit by bit I've been trying to remove parabens and sulfates from a lot of my makeup.
I'm allergic to sulfur, so this one was a no brainer. And it's made a HUGE difference.

Here's what I'm loving right now...

// 1 // This eyeshadow is MAGIC. I have the UD Naked palette and it's okay, but this thing is amazing. Every color is super wearable for everyday life. Even that hot pink ends up a soft pinkish nude on. The only one I have a hard time wearing is the deep blue. I've only worn it as eyeliner thus far.

// 2 // I'm a mascara addict. I love mascara. It's the one cosmetic I can't leave without. My short, stubby, blonde eyelashes need the help. And THIS does it. I've tried so many mascaras, all of them seem to have big flaws. One clumps, another leaves epic smudges, the third you can't wash off, the next is so brittle....you get the picture. So far, the only problem with this one is sometimes after a long day I have a little smudge. I have greasy eyes, so this is not a huge surprise. But it makes my eyelashes look SO full. Plus it's opthamologist approved, so it's safe for your eyes.

// 3 // I challenged myself to be a little more daring in 2016 and this includes lipstick. I got a sample of 5 colors of this lipstick in my Gwen Stefani palette, and it is so good. It's truly long-lasting. I wore mine all day, eating, drinking, chapsticking and never reapplying and I still had some color left at the end of the day. I immediately went and bought a tube. I like the 'Firebird' fuchsia color and the 'Spiderwebs' red is the best red lipstick I've found.

// 4 // This is what I wear most days. It's the best light pink color, and looks so natural. Plus it has a hint of mint in it...which is awesome. This shade is 'Smooth Talker.' (I always think of this when I buy it.) I've gifted it to several people because it's truly the best gloss I own.

// 5 // This is my favorite natural blush. It's paraben free, cruelty free, and so nice on your face. 'Glisten' looks good on just about everyone.

// 6 // This is a cult favorite and one of mine, too. I recently bought it after using up a whole Tarte blush. I really like this one, it always makes my face looked flush in the right shade. But, I may go back to the other when this one's done.

// 7 // Last, but definitely not least, my new favorite foundation. It's essentially a tinted moisturizer/BB cream, but it's got staying power like no other. My skin really did get better after I started using this. And it's cooling, so it feels great in the morning. The one weird thing is it starts to dry quickly when you begin spreading it -- make sure you cover your face before that happens.

I want to hear what you're loving!
Share your favorites with me, I always need new ideas!

xoxo.

my stylin sister

My little sister is the cutest.

Seriously. It's no contest.

See? 'Aint she adorable?!!

Well this cute little girl lives 3,000 miles away from me.

And she has for a little more than 6 years now.

Still, we talk to each other every night before she goes to bed. 

And in a real display of sweetness -- she babysat for a whole day, saved her money and bought me this shirt:
 

because she knows how much I love Diet coke. 

Cutest little sister EVER.

xoxox.

ruler for a day: the recent grad

One of my college producing prodigies, Anna, and sister to my red sox mama Ruth sent in her list! And dude, Anna is HYSTERICAL. Plus, she met Anderson Cooper so that makes her pretty much the coolest person in the world! Hahaha. But this girl is great. So show my lady some love.

Anna rules because:


1. i just graduated from college: 5 years. 2 majors. 3.6 GPA.
2. i can cook anything from scratch. and i do. from pizzas to pastries, cheeseburgers to cheesecakes...i will make it. and i love it.
3. i can drive for days without getting tired. and i've driven across the country like 6 times. yay for commuting 2,000+ miles for college.
4. i was the valedictorian of my class (of 500+) in high school. and i wore pj pants nearly every day ( :
5. i won the very first 5k that i ever ran...beating out my sister that i ran with for basically the entire race. sorry ruth!
6. i started running track and field / cross country in middle school because my friends and i realized that was a good way to meet boys. and i have loved running ever since ( :
7. thanks to working in the news, i know a little bit about a zillion different things.
8. i love writing. i can write about anything and make it sound fun / interesting / awesome.
9. i won an award for my lighting design last year at the american theatre college festival...a nationally accredited program.
10. i've never had strep throat.


If you wanna tell me why YOU RULE, I'll do it til everyone realizes how awesome they are. Just click on the cute little bear!

xoxox.

ruler for a day: the almost wed!

My friend Susan just sent me her list.
I love this girl. She's fun, thoughtful, giving, funny and sweet to boot. I have loved getting to know her over the past two years!


Ten Reasons I rule: (this is a great idea by the way...it's going to make me feel good!)

1. I am a convert to the LDS church and have had to endure some tough stuff because of that decision... but it's the best decision I've ever made!

2. I really care about people. I have always been thoughtful. I see something that reminds me of someone I know and I buy it for them just because. Or I make cards for people for giving good talks in church. Things like that.

3. I have a very unique laugh, and people make fun of it a lot, but I love it.

4. I somehow got the most beautiful man (inside and out) to marry me! I am VERY blessed.

5. I am great at scrap-booking, and it doesn't take me YEARS to finish things like that. I can get a lot done in just a couple hours because I am NOT a perfectionist by any means!

6. I can pogo stick with no hands, and once did this 2006 times. (in 8th grade!)

7. I am reallllly good at jumbles, sudoku, cryptograms, and crossword puzzles. Oh and Wheel of Fortune!

8. I am a girl without DRAMA. I have a hard time making girl friends because I can't stand the drama, but it just makes life so much simpler. I'm glad I am not dramatic.

9. I am really good at wrestling. People can't hold me down, I'm a scrapper.

10. I am extremely loving. The people who are close to me are so dear to my heart. I like to express my love through hugs and kisses in my family. I love to love!


If you wanna tell me why YOU RULE, I'll do it til everyone realizes how awesome they are. Just click on the cute little bear!

xoxox.

ruler for a day: miss thang

My girl Kerstin (like the one who I used to practically live with work with) sent me hers.

Ladies, this girl is one of the funniest girls I've ever met and so great. So go visit!

1.) I have a laugh that can be heard from a mile away (no joke)
2.) I'm one of the most loyal people you'll meet.
3.) I make killer "Cheer Me Up" gifts for people who are having a bad day.
4.) I'm 6'2" and not afraid to wear high heels.
5.) When I cook or bake the entire kitchen turns in to a disaster zone.
6.) I'm a good writer.
7.) I take chances even when they seem scary or hard.
8.) I'm always one of the first people to jump into a new situation.
9.) I've recently cut all the drama out of my life, and it feels good :)
10.) I can cut my own hair, and it still looks good.

Thanks for doing this Siovhan! You're amazing! Love, Kerstin


If you wanna tell me why YOU RULE, I'll do it til everyone realizes how awesome they are. Just click on the cute little bear!

xoxox.

ruler for a day: my pen pal!

My super rad awesome pen pal, Season, has created her list.

And let me tell you, I freaking love it.

PLUS this gorgeous lady has mono and could totally use some happy over at her place.

So check it out ... and then go show some love!

Okay, I think I'm ready for this.

1. I am incredibly loyal.
2. I am filled with (some might say, useless) information. But ask me about any celebrity, tv show, etc, and I'll have an answer.
3. I am extremely honest. I can not lie. My parents instilled that into me at a young age. It just kills my husband that I can't lie to people, lol.
4. I was featured in a few art shows in high school and college.
5. I always come up with the perfect gifts for my family.
6. I have been told that I have absolutely beautiful eyes. (and legs, but that was years ago)
7. I once kicked a soccer ball from one goal to the other goal and scored. This was during practice and not a game though.
8. I'm an extremely hard worker. Once I get a job I always try my hardest to be the best employee they have. My dad just had to remind me not to work myself out of a job. :)
9. I love with all of my heart. Friends, Families, and Significant Others.
10. Um, I have a kick ass name! Thanks mom & dad.


If you wanna tell me why YOU RULE, I'll do it til everyone realizes how awesome they are. Just click on the cute little bear!

xoxox.

ruler for a day my something corporate soulmate

I've known Kristie for YEARS. Since she was 12, I think. She is one funny, crazy, lovely, creative, smart lady -- and she has great taste in music.

Kristie says:

Awesomeness. The 10 reasons I rule:
1. I have a fun, eclectic style.
2. I know all of the words to every Something Corporate song ever. Haha.
3. I'm funny! I never knew until my manfriend (a comedian) told me so!
4. I'm a stickler for spelling and grammar. My friends call me webster.
5. I have a fair Swedish complexion but my Italian genes help me to get super tan when I want to.
6. I'm a good writer. I have talent. It's taken a long time for me to be able to say that.
7. I have a chocolate addiction. I used to consider it a weakness. Now I think of it as a trait I have inherited from my amazing mother. :)
8. I make gorgeous wrapping paper out of beautiful magazine images. I give the prettiest presents on the block.
9. Sometimes when I'm tired, a little Boston accent comes out on accident.
10. I'm more than a Sales and Service Associate. I'm more than a student. I'm a lover, a survivor, and an artist, just to name a few.

Thanks for allowing me to do this. I really needed to realize how awesome I am again. Sometimes it's easy to forget.


If you wanna tell me why YOU RULE, I'll do it til everyone realizes how awesome they are. Just click on the cute little bear!

xoxox.

ruler for a day: the bangin krysten

Krysten is SUCH an amazing blogger. Dude she has the coolest interests (I say that because they're a lot like mine. hahaha.). She gives amazing book reviews. And did the COOLEST series about her hubby (it starts here). Check it out.


Krysten says:

Let's see...

1. I am a self proclaimed book worm and love to share my reviews with others.
2. I try to write every single day to make myself better (so that one day I can be published).
3. I am fiercely loyal with my friends and family.
4. I love to laugh.
5. My puppy thinks I'm the best (especially when I give him a snack).
6. I can rock bangs.
7. I am adamant about finishing school and getting my degree.
8. I call my grandma every Friday no matter what.
9. I make some really kick butt tacos.
10. I'm a fabulous multitasker.

Yay, that was fun!


If you wanna tell me why YOU RULE, I'll do it til everyone realizes how awesome they are. Just click on the cute little bear!

ruler for a day the red sox mama

I met my dear friend Ruth through her adorable husband Drew. Drew and I were in the same program at BYU and he's from Boston, too...so instant connection. THEN I met Ruth. I love this freaking lady. She's funny, smart, REALLY creative and artistic, determined, and one heck of a runner to boot. Plus she's gonna be a momma soon!! Yay new rex soxian!

Ruth said:

1. I am married to Drew Dowling , conosseur of all things New England and Red Sox.
2. I have the best job in the world...teaching art to high schoolers!
3. I ran a race every month for 13 months straight, including 2 half marathons.
4. I can rock curly AND straight hair.
5. I graduated BYU with one major in the time it took Anna to graduate with two :) (wait, I guess that would be why SHE rocks!)
6. I AM growing a little human being inside of me :)
7. I LOVE reading... and am almost always in the process of reading at least 3 books.
8. I have a cat that plays fetch.
9. Did I mention Drew Dowling? Best decision I ever made.
10. I'm half Chilean. That means, yes, I can understand my students who mutter spanish expletives under their breath :)


If you wanna tell me why YOU RULE, I'll do it til everyone realizes how awesome they are. Just click on the cute little bear!

ruler for a day: the newbie

Sarah's a new follower -- and let me tell you, this girl is rad. I love that she blogs the way I do -- about this, that, and everything. It makes it exciting to see what she's gonna come up with next! Plus, she's adorable.

Sarah said:

I rule because:

1. I have read hundreds of books.

2. I have the patience to spend 8 hours a day with 4 year olds!

3. I now have a savings account(with money in it).

4. I have a great sense of fashion.

5. I make delicious hummus!

6. I finally got on an airplane for the first time in 2009.

7. I am an artist.

8. I have been exercising on a regular basis for the past month!

9. I quit smoking.

10. Just because!

I HAVE HUNDREDS OF BOOKS, TOO!! And I freaking love hummus. 

If you wanna tell me why YOU RULE, I'll do it til everyone realizes how awesome they are. Just click on the cute little bear!

ruler for a day: fellow behind the scenes tv-er

Sabina works with me and dude, this girl can put together an outfit, or cheer a person up better than anyone else. AND She cooks awesome food...and knows where to get awesome food...and DUDE. DUDE DUDE DUDE she brought me donuts the other day. She's awesome.

AND she speaks fluent Romanian. EPIC.

Sabina said:

1. I CAN COOK really yummy things that make many people (and their bellies) happy

2. I'm a good listener.

3. I keep track of everything in my head. No planner for this girl right here :P Birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, numbers, payment due dates, appointments, deadlines... it's all in here *points to head*

4. I love taking risks and laughing at myself!

5. I clean so well, most people think I'm a neat freak.

6. I wax myself (TMI? sorry... but I'm so friggin' proud of that.. it's hard work, man!)

7. I kick butt at (making) surprises!

8. I'm a ridiculously good shopper (my specialty are clothes and groceries)

9. I stay fit although I eat anything and everything I want.

10. Someday I'll make a really good dog owner :)

PS: Thank you for this post! You look amazing :]

If you wanna tell me why YOU RULE, I'll do it til everyone realizes how awesome they are. Just click on the cute little bear!

xoxo.

ruler for a day: all star momma!

I asked ... you answered.

So here's the first installment of

RULER FOR A DAY.

Jessica and I went to Journalism school together -- and let me tell you, she is FREAKING AWESOME. She's a great producer, a wonderful writer, a stylish lady and one completely RAD mom. Plus, check out how adorable that baby is!! I just love that Lola girl. 

So here's Jess's reasons why she rules: 

1. I grew a human being inside me

2. I pushed that human being out of me

3. I make the best chocolate chip cookies in the world

4. I can paint my toenails without getting polish on my toes

5. I ran 10 miles 8 weeks after giving birth

6. I would do anything for someone I love

7. I know how to laugh at myself

8. I love to travel and make an effort to do so on a regular basis

9. I work for the #1 local news website in the nation

10. I am a clean freak 

Wow, I feel a bit conceited. But it feels kind of good :)

I LOVE HER LIST!

I think those are all GREAT reasons why she rules. 

We'll have more of your lists -- and for anyone else who wants to chime in... 

Tell me why YOU rule! :)

xoxo.

awesomespice.

So I've sat here staring at this screen for several minutes ... not knowing what to say at all.

First, I cannot figure out why I'm still awake when I have to be up at 8:30 and got only 3 hours of sleep last night and worked and stayed up late, AGAIN.

My brain seriously needs to calm down and shut down.

It's still zip zip zipping.  

A LOT. 

Second, even though my brain is all aflutter .... my body is exhausted.

{I promise this won't all be about sleep.}

I keep yawning like a loon. A still awake loon.

My body says "Hey crazy lady, we're trying to tell you you're tired. NOW LISTEN."

Third, I need inspiration for how to cut my hair.

I'm officially getting it cut on Saturday {the first time in a YEAR}.

Now I'm trying to figure out if/how much of it to cut off and what shape I want.

Also, we all know I love blog giveaways done by my loving friends.

I think they're just completely great.

But I'm starting to believe I should only enter ones that have to do with hair products/accessories -- because they're the only ones I win.

And that's okay with me, I'm SO not complaining.

I DEFINITELY didn't complain when I won this little beauty:

"Pinkspice" made by Miss Lauren over at Busy Bee Lauren {check out her headband shop}.

Fifth -- I needed some more work wear {i.e. skirts} and I'm pretty IN LOVE with Old Navy's $15 skirt sale right now. But I accidentally returned the wrong one today (I needed to change some sizes like on the GIANT cardigan I bought) so I'm gonna have to go back and get that one. Yay for cute work clothes.

Sixth, I want spring/summer. NOW. I'm sick of gray skies and rain. I want pretty Oregon again.

Lastly, please please PLEASE check out this AMAZING video my friend Natalie's little sister posted on her Facebook this week. Makes me SO happy. It's epic.

sigh. oh disney princesses. oh mean girls. oh GENIUS.

Happy Friday! Happy Weekend!
{Happy My Haircut, Room Clean, Crafting, Happiness weekend!!}
xoxo.

nothing tastes as good as john mayer feels ...

I suck at Twitter.

I mostly use it for minor celeb stalking following (when I actually remember I even have a Twitter).

Anyway ... one of my favorite celebs to read updates from is none other than

John Mayer. (@johncmayer)

I really enjoy John's music ... but beyond his incredible musical and lyrical (seriously, GO GET BATTLE STUDIES. NOW.) talents the man is FREAKING HILARIOUS.

Seriously.

Here are a few of my recent favorites -- you'll see, he's a funny guy.

@SkyMall I gave my lawyer the painting of the wolves with inspiring mantra on Leadership. Framed. Cause I'm fancy.

Nobody seems to think a gift certificate for catalogs.com is strange? You might as well say "I"m sure that I know nothing about you."

@taylorswift13 let's bedazzle something!

If you're shocked that Britney was lip-syncing at her concert and want your money back, life may continue to be hard for you.

This is the part in a line of interviews where I want to start making answers up. So if you read that I breed alpacas, go with it.

I'm in Australia on Halloween. It's like turning out your porch light times a billion.

If you want to go out and buy an entire case of AA batteries, I say more power to you.

This unfortunate media display involving balloon boy undermines the hundreds of boys and girls actually lost to balloon flight every year.

All cookies are sugar cookies.

Dove bar soap is 1/4 moisturizer. That's why Dove bar soap is allowed to make moisturizer jokes and you're not.

See?! And seriously. Get Battle Studies. It's GORGEOUS. This song makes my heart smile.

Now I'm going to leave you with one of my favorite Mayer moments.

Mmmmmmmmmm. I think I like it better than the original.

xoxoxo.

it tells a thousand words...

i heart pictures.

and ever since joining the blogging community -- i've become more obsessed and enthralled with looking at, enjoying, and finding pictures.

so, in my lame cop-out post ... i'm going to show you some i think are wonderful.

little insights into my psyche.

{the apparent theme of the past few days...}

i love these houses.

they're sooo pretty and so many different colors.

this is a favorite picture of mine.

I love this piece. It's by Kurt Halsey.

And it's called:

About A Boy.

I LOVE that. Totally true. I can see her getting all cute and putting on a nice outfit -- and I think the butterflies are a great touch.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA.

This slays me. I seriously laughed for like a minute when I saw this.

{i do not endorse actually eating turtles.}

Pretty, pretty, pretty. And fun. I love this. And her ensemble. I want. I want. I want.

this is important to me. i love this. for so many reasons.

♥my puzzle piece.♥

i love you, barkley.

isn't this pretty? i love this. i want a print.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH. So many people have wayyyyy too much time on their hands.

but this is HYSTERICAL.

i think this is so tender. and so creative.

i want to hang out with this little girl. this is so funny!

i have an obsession with fake mustaches.

i have literally laughed out loud about 5 times just this afternoon while looking at this picture.

it's the baby. it kills me!!!

I think India is GORGEOUS. The colors, the culture, I love it. Bollywood? Dank.

I think that in their culture they appreciate color --and vibrant color, at that -- a lot more than we do. I love saris. I think they're gorgeous and I think they make women look gorgeous. This picture is amazing.

{gorgeous}

the other reason i've been laughing all afternoon.

i think this is true. {mine is ryan.}

i think this would make a great framed print.

{i have a thing for pictures of doors, i get it from my dad. i have a collection at home in boston.}

HA! fun. fun. and more fun.

star wars humor mixed with dairy = humor milkshake. aweeeesome.

I hope you enjoyed this.

And hopefully soon I'll post something more personal ... and less sappy.

{all images via we heart it}