tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76799050988691863392024-03-12T22:37:33.493-04:0040 Is The New 25One woman's quest to look and feel twenty-five by age fortyElisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-71683484735995873102013-05-25T18:19:00.000-04:002013-05-25T18:19:26.544-04:00Ok, I am turning 40 in less than 3 months!I'm down to the crunch, so I'm doing all I can to look my best for my big 4-0, and so far so good, seriously. Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-8931548185249635242010-11-24T09:37:00.002-05:002010-11-24T09:50:21.855-05:00Beauty Link DailyI'm back! Well, sort of...<br /><br />I haven't posted anything in months because I've been extremely busy, we moved and are in the middle of huge renovations, and we had another baby!<br /><br />Baby Nina was born on September 1, so now I have two girls, fun fun fun! I love being a mom.<br /><br />Because it's so hard to find time to write, here is a new project I'm working on until my schedule gets a little less hectic, please join my Facebook group:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_160706383970427<br />">http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_160706383970427<br /></a><br /><br />Every day, I find interesting beauty news, techniques, and tips, and I post a link to the story for you. Please let me know what you think, I love getting your emails!Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-35630040859435698712010-02-05T09:35:00.006-05:002010-02-09T10:18:56.732-05:00Cairo TimeI really enjoyed this movie. It's a hauntingly romantic and sensual story set against the backdrop of exotic, gorgeous and mysterious Cairo, Egypt. Throughout the movie, I couldn't take my eyes off the incandescently beautiful 49 year-old Patricia Clarkson, who gets progressively more stunning throughout the movie. There are numerous close-ups of her elegant face and flawless skin. If this is what 50 looks like, I'm in! Her co-star Alexander Siddig is pretty easy on the eyes too, not to mention that voice and that accent...<br /><br />Take a look at the trailer here:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orXcdLwtVRY">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orXcdLwtVRY</a>Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-1906943056999183812010-01-31T15:50:00.004-05:002010-01-31T15:58:21.713-05:00Happy Birthday, Heather Graham<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimjCQT3RZ5hLKLUROipuHJ-unbSJym3J4Q4qoZ9-obtJjBB0sxHYNvPWAjLt3EC_OXt81_84lj8sVegIa4IiBaZ8IU8GQAGkV8WfIo3XvLLySxA0Pfp6bpjDPdcODYurSQv99nAgdxPQY/s1600-h/heathergraham.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 140px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimjCQT3RZ5hLKLUROipuHJ-unbSJym3J4Q4qoZ9-obtJjBB0sxHYNvPWAjLt3EC_OXt81_84lj8sVegIa4IiBaZ8IU8GQAGkV8WfIo3XvLLySxA0Pfp6bpjDPdcODYurSQv99nAgdxPQY/s200/heathergraham.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433011006165155106" /></a><br /><br />It's hard to believe gorgeous, fresh-faced Heather Graham turned 40 this week!Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-90527807347713592422010-01-25T12:51:00.004-05:002010-01-25T13:35:38.252-05:00Another great celebrity slideshow!Found this one on the Fox News site, '40 Hottest Over-40 Hotties'. Fabulous, despite the cheesy title!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.foxnews.com/slideshow/entertainment/2009/10/01/hottest-hotties">http://www.foxnews.com/slideshow/entertainment/2009/10/01/hottest-hotties</a><br /><br />I apologize for not updating this blog as much as I should, I'm in the process of making some big life changes (all good stuff and very exciting!), will try to write more as soon as possible. Next up will be My Botox Alternatives: Part 2, soon I promise! <br /><br />As always, thanks so much for stopping by :)Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-1405578671742367342010-01-08T08:59:00.003-05:002010-01-08T09:52:55.214-05:00How are your favourite celebrities aging?Take a look for yourself, here's the slideshow:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34462651/ns/health-picture_stories/displaymode/1247/?beginSlide=1">http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34462651/ns/health-picture_stories/displaymode/1247/?beginSlide=1</a><br /><br />Enjoy!Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-86044006924090910282009-12-31T14:05:00.003-05:002010-01-08T09:54:08.214-05:00Famous women who turned 40 in 2009What better way to end this year of posts? Here they are, every fabulous one of them:<br /><br />Christy Turlington<br />Jennifer Lopez<br />Kathryn Morris<br />Mary McCormack<br />Renee Zellweger<br />Anne Heche<br />Chandra Wilson<br />Gwen Stefani<br />Nancy Kerrigan<br />Kim Fields<br />Cate Blanchett<br />Tracey Gold<br />Angie Everhart<br />Rachel Hunter<br />Catherine Zeta-Jones<br />Paige Davis<br />Ellen Pompeo<br />Kristy Swanson<br />Jennifer Aniston<br /><br />I hope everyone had a wonderful 2009. I am currently in Vienna, Austria for the holidays and will be having a relaxing, low key new year's eve celebration with family, champagne, and some delicious Chinese take-out. All the best to everyone for a healthy and prosperous 2010!Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-2763723623242208202009-11-23T14:52:00.009-05:002010-01-08T09:55:32.880-05:00My Botox Alternatives, Part 1<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yVJb1ductHIp5EdNxCglMr4UFV8X7jsk9-4MR5NgM4I5NAaUt_aUdy_5eU9V8QB_GYJGMR2K4ng2Gx-N4cenC68arjiBDnsT4Zq3RUiNhL3IVKfeCK3QQEHUbN2LvvGf5jB6nzgFPyE/s1600-h/frownies_fbe.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 102px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yVJb1ductHIp5EdNxCglMr4UFV8X7jsk9-4MR5NgM4I5NAaUt_aUdy_5eU9V8QB_GYJGMR2K4ng2Gx-N4cenC68arjiBDnsT4Zq3RUiNhL3IVKfeCK3QQEHUbN2LvvGf5jB6nzgFPyE/s200/frownies_fbe.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416303478632577746" /></a><br /><br /><br />'Frownies On... Frown Lines Gone!' <br />'Hollywood's Beauty Secret For Over 100 Years!'<br />'Made In USA Since 1889'<br />'Guaranteed results in 30 days or less.'<br /><br />These are just a few of the exciting claims written on my little box of Frownies,<br />and since I somehow lost the original copy of this post, I am wearing a Frownie right now to get rid of the pained look on my face...<br /><br />Speaking of that 'pained look' you wouldn't believe how many facial expressions you make in your sleep until you peel a Frownie off your smooth, relaxed brow the following morning. I have been using this product on and off for 6 years now and they work like magic. 'On and off' because every once in a while I get tired of my husband teasing me for coming to bed looking like I 'joined some bizarre cult', they are not sexy, that's for sure. I also like to take a break to see if my retrained facial muscles actually revert back to their old selves. Inevitably they do.<br /><br />These very simple and easy to use little patches have been manufactured, formula unchanged, by the same family since 1889, and have reportedly been a favourite of glamorous beauties like Gloria Swanson, Dayle Haddon, and Renee Russo. Though the box claims guaranteed results after 30 days, I find I see results after about 14 days of consistent use, and the price can't be beat. $19.99 will give you 144 mornings of unfurrowed brow with no headaches or downtime vs. $425 (in my neck of the woods, anyway) for botox. <br /><br />I also like that you can slip Frownies in your Christmas cards before you send them, after all, don't your loved ones also deserve to wake up with a line-free forehead at some point during this holiday season?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.frownies.com">www.frownies.com</a>Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-80706766406997112332009-11-08T19:34:00.010-05:002010-01-08T09:55:58.590-05:00Lift Your Bosom With Botox...I'm starting to wonder if there's anything Botox can't do:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/beauty/article-1225537/Botox-breasts-New-treatment-helps-women-tighten-sagging-cleavage.html">http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/beauty/article-1225537/Botox-breasts-New-treatment-helps-women-tighten-sagging-cleavage.html</a> <br /><br />I haven't 'Botoxed' anything yet, but I'm sure I will sometime in the future. For now I have two products that I'm using to prevent the number eleven from planting itself firmly between my brows, with success so far. More to come on those products very soon.Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-60716020308996329202009-10-31T08:41:00.007-04:002010-01-08T10:40:32.616-05:00H1N1 and Vitamin DI really didn't want to post about this because a) this is a beauty blog and b) I'm not a doctor, but recently my friend (a registered nutritional consultant and owner of foodspark.com) alerted me to the importance of vitamin D intake to help boost our immune systems. Most of us don't get enough vitamin D, and whether or not you plan on taking the flu vaccine, it can't hurt to make sure you're getting your daily recommended intake of all vitamins this season. If you google 'vitamin D and H1N1' there is a lot of information. You'll also come across a lot of conspiracy theories, etc. about this flu, and since I'd rather stick with facts, here is a good link to check out:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.vitamindcouncil.org/newsletter/h1n1-flu-and-vitamin-d.shtml">http://www.vitamindcouncil.org/newsletter/h1n1-flu-and-vitamin-d.shtml</a><br /><br />Hope you and all your loved ones stay healthy.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.foodspark.com">www.foodspark.com</a>Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-24051993872506623422009-10-24T21:53:00.005-04:002010-01-10T17:15:12.902-05:00A quote...Here's one we've all heard:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">'There are no ugly women, only lazy ones.'</span> (Helena Rubinstein)<br /><br />I have to say, I agree with the first part, there are no ugly women. The right makeup and hairstyle can almost instantly make any woman beautiful, I truly believe that. Diet, exercise, and proper skincare can make huge improvements. Hollywood is full of examples of women with mediocre looks and talent who have been transformed into dazzling beauties with the help of top makeup artists, hair stylists, and fitness experts.<br /><br />The reference to laziness, in my opinion, is a little harsh and mean-spirited. I recently came across this lesser-known but much gentler (and more optimistic) quote from actress Arlene Dahl:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">'There is no such thing as an ugly woman. There are only those who have not realized their full potential.'</span> <br /><br />I couldn't agree more.Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-48366848165420738282009-10-17T12:20:00.008-04:002010-01-08T09:59:06.143-05:00My American Pharmacy Haul<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwRO2b41VGsomgSA7wgZk0G0yBKrvLQ_IZhvhGdNO8-15NcdGlS2YRXNB5vZr2x4eWmwVmo4RMsLviV7ymtJcyDWsf8fczNkswCNk1YJ2kSoZkKld9g9K7W6FAA4U1qJM4M6EnKAMnqc/s1600-h/IMG_1054.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwRO2b41VGsomgSA7wgZk0G0yBKrvLQ_IZhvhGdNO8-15NcdGlS2YRXNB5vZr2x4eWmwVmo4RMsLviV7ymtJcyDWsf8fczNkswCNk1YJ2kSoZkKld9g9K7W6FAA4U1qJM4M6EnKAMnqc/s200/IMG_1054.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394322863242479538" /></a><br /><br /><br />People are always talking about what a glamorous experience it is to visit European pharmacies, and I agree, with their obscure miracle products not found in North America and very formal and knowledgeable staff, it's not to be missed. Though part of their charm is that they are usually located in some gorgeous historic building, these places are usually tiny. Much of the magic is often kept behind the counter and you're better off going knowing either what you want, or willing to be instructed on what you need. Sometimes, I just want to enjoy the experience of getting lost in browsing around a big-ass store with tons of cosmetics, crazy hair products, and all those beauty gadgets I see in the infomercials. Ped Eggs and Bumpits and The Strapper, hell yeah! At the same time, it's also kind of amusing to be able to pick up anything from a pet bed to a fishing rod to go with my beauty purchases. That's what I love about American pharmacies, they really have it all, and you can really feel free to wander around at your leisure. I find it so relaxing and therapeutic.<br /><br />Here are my treasures:<br /><br /><strong>L'Oreal Color Riche Lipstick in 'Pink Lady'</strong> <br />After seeing this lipstick in the November issue of Allure, I was excited to get my hands on it as it's not available in Canada. Although it's not my favourite color, the thrill of the chase and finally tracking it down was worth it. It reminds me a lot of Laura Mercier's 'Baby Lips' lipstick.<br /><br /><strong>Burt's Bees Lip Shimmers in 'Raisin' and 'Peony'</strong><br />I had seen both of these colors mentioned in magazines as makeup artists' favourites (of course couldn't find them in Canada) and they didn't disappoint. Both colors are lovely, sheer, lip stains with a fresh, minty taste that makes the lips tingle when applied. 'Raisin' is a deep, reddish-plum, and 'Peony' is a very wearable light, shimmery blush pink.<br /><br /><strong>CoverGirl TruShine Lipstick in 'Blushberry Shine'</strong><br />Another one I'd seen on best in beauty lists for a few years now, of course nowhere to be found north of the border. A lot of drugstore lipsticks have a very strong blue-pink base, so I was surprised that this one stayed true to it's original color rather than leaving the 'fuchsia stain' as it wore off. This sheer berry-nude shade is fairly similar to Clinique's Almost Lipstick in 'Almost Blush', a favourite that was discontinued a few years ago.<br /><br /><strong>Ardell False Lashes #301</strong><br />It doesn't get more fool-proof than this as far as false lashes are concerned. These are for the outer half of the eye, and they are the perfect, unexaggerated length and thickness. No trimming necessary. Everyone needs a pair of these. I suspect I may actually be able to find these here because of the bilingual packaging, which is mandatory for products for sale in Canada. I will post an update if I do find them here.<br /><br />So what's the difference between Canadian and American pharmacies? Smaller stores and much, much less selection. When I was unable to find L'Oreal's 'Pink Lady' lipstick in Canada, I called up their customer service to find out where I could purchase it, assuming it was for sale here under a different name or number. I was very surprised when I was told that Canadian pharmacies don't carry the entire L'Oreal line because our market is only 10% of what it is in the U.S. <br /><br />I guess that explains it.Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-27346740827535038882009-10-08T14:28:00.007-04:002010-01-08T09:57:20.100-05:0042 is the new 20?Hello from sunny and gorgeous Anna Maria Island, Florida, where I am currently on vacation!<br /><br />Funny thing happened today, my 42 year-old husband was asked for ID buying wine at a Publix grocery store. In Canada, the drinking age is 19 for most provinces, and for Quebec, it's 18, but nobody bothers to check really anyway. Hopefully, somebody somewhere will mistake me for less than 21 years of age and ask me for some proof, too. Please?<br /><br />I'm having a blast down here, and I absolutely love American pharmacies. The selection is excellent. So far, I've picked up some great products that are currently unavailable in Canada. Long live CVS! Long live Walgreens!<br /><br />More on my American pharmacy haul later, I'm off to the beach...<br /><br />UPDATE: It happened, I got asked for ID at the T.G.I.Fridays at the Tampa Airport. Of course I was flattered and excited, until I saw the same waiter card a table full of men that were obviously in their fifties. When I asked the waiter about it, he said he now asks almost everyone for ID because recently someone who was not asked got offended and sued, AND WON! Unbelievable.Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-14179635354309261792009-10-06T08:50:00.011-04:002010-01-08T09:59:31.942-05:00I don't like my 'boyfriends'Some relationships are just not meant to be. <br /><br />A few days ago, I set out on a mission to buy myself a pair of 'boyfriend' jeans. I know, I'm late to the party by many months, but I just thought these jeans would be perfect to wear to the park to hang out with other moms, and what better way to hide a pair of granny underwear and a giant maxi pad? Then of course there's the option of slipping on some high heels with those same jeans and becoming instantly sexy and ready for a night on the town, right? Is that too much to ask of one pair of pants? <br /><br />Yes, it is.<br /><br />I tried on several pairs, and wasn't quite sure of any of them, which should have been my first clue that this was not going to work out. Somehow, though, I convinced myself that if I just gave them a chance, brought them home and threw on a cashmere turtleneck and my favourite stilettos, I wouldn't look like an awkward teenager that raided her father's closet. This, in fact, is exactly what I did the first time this trend appeared in the 80s. Thankfully, I settled on a pair from the store with the best return policy. After giving them an honest try with practically everything in my wardrobe, I knew I had to get rid of them. It wasn't me, it was them.<br /><br />Maybe it was the way they made my ass look flatter and saggier than it actually is. Maybe it was that extra space at the crotch meant for a penis, a penis that I don't have. I think the real reason though is that jeans have gotten so good with their fit in the past few years, I just can't settle for a pair that doesn't maximize my rear view, slenderize my thighs and make my legs super long. Why would I invest in an article of clothing that just isn't flattering? Why should you? <br /><br />I realized that what I really liked about this style was the look of rolled up jeans. It's a cute, casual, and fun look. So I'll just save myself the ridiculous $200 and roll up the jeans I already own. Problem solved.<br /><br />As for 'boyfriend' jackets, there's another trend I'm not falling for. While I still have a waist, I'll be wearing my jackets nice and fitted, thank you.<br /><br />Speaking of jeans, here are some that are really special:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqn7ILWOr_c">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqn7ILWOr_c</a><br /><br />Though I think that they're missing their target clientele by featuring some casually dressed woman strolling through suburbia. How about a group of cougars in high heels, strutting through a singles' bar? Or better yet, a young hot guy dancing up a storm in the gay part of town?Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-13052664019859366102009-09-28T20:19:00.013-04:002010-01-08T10:00:08.398-05:00Men and aging...Here's an interesting example of two extremes:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1216592/Wham-star-Andrew-Ridgeley-succumbs-ageing-process.html">http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1216592/Wham-star-Andrew-Ridgeley-succumbs-ageing-process.html</a><br /><br />Though fairly unrecognizable, I have to give Andrew Ridgeley credit for aging gracefully and still looking like a man. George Michael, on the other hand (scroll down) has had some kind of crazy eye lift that even his sunglasses can't hide. <br /><br />And if you read the entire article, you'll notice the mention of a Bananarama reunion, which of course I am very excited about!Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-74000558155408110992009-09-25T22:17:00.004-04:002010-01-08T10:01:00.620-05:00My two year-old and a tin of Nivea...I was out grocery shopping, my husband was left in charge, and he had just put my daughter in bed for her afternoon nap. He thought she was fast asleep, but when he went to investigate noises coming from our bedroom, he found this:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0Do6LW7J6s">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0Do6LW7J6s</a><br /><br />(My husband speaks to our daughter in his native tongue, Russian, we are hoping she'll grow up bilingual. So far so good.)Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-51249590794003575262009-09-20T08:29:00.007-04:002010-01-08T10:05:41.504-05:00Do-It-Yourself Eyebrow ThreadingMy friend Daphne, a gorgeous Audrey Hepburn lookalike with enviably thick and perfectly arched eyebrows, recently confessed to me that she 'threads' them herself. She swears by it to clean up under the brows and take care of any other unwanted hair on the face. <br /><br />I had only ever seen threading done by the beautiful Persian girls I went to hairdressing school with. I would watch them on our lunch hour, their fingers moving the thread with surprising speed and precision. It looked complicated, like one of those skills I'd never quite pick up unless I'd been born to a Middle-Eastern family where sisters and mothers and aunts taught me from an early age. I had never seen anyone do it on themselves so it certainly never even occurred to me to attempt it, but after having it done professionally a few times, my friend Daphne was determined to do it herself. After spending much time browsing YouTube for the most informative tutorial, she sent me this link to the one she found most helpful:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F37Sl1c7BA0">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F37Sl1c7BA0</a><br /><br />Another reason I never learned more about threading is that I don't have much to thread. I'm nervous to try it on my sparse and skinny eyebrows as there isn't much to work with and zero margin for errors. In recent years though, I have sprouted some strange little hairs on my chin that I've been tweezing. Since threading is faster than tweezers and gentler to the skin than waxing, I think this could be a better solution for me. <br /><br />One last tip, Daphne recommends 100% cotton thread, as it grips the hairs better. Let me know how you make out if you try it. <br /><br />Happy threading!<br /><br />(Note: Towards the end of the YouTube video there is a part where the eyebrows are trimmed with manicure scissors, ignore this, eyebrow trimming is 95% of the time a terrible idea.)Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-53555598690383362552009-09-14T13:48:00.009-04:002010-01-08T10:07:01.408-05:00The last pedicure of summer...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZEGUYZ5NaqsQ8iAOZsCwcQALnvEXkbY8B02q1xtmJ1wk3-eQyi49SlgBwHvEF9-Vvl2f3_uneCSmyUIlazgZL5OMPHa95TWIDPW9sOEaP3VSzwE3IrW-fwseHe7X_eybhp1nTrRufvNs/s1600-h/opired.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZEGUYZ5NaqsQ8iAOZsCwcQALnvEXkbY8B02q1xtmJ1wk3-eQyi49SlgBwHvEF9-Vvl2f3_uneCSmyUIlazgZL5OMPHa95TWIDPW9sOEaP3VSzwE3IrW-fwseHe7X_eybhp1nTrRufvNs/s200/opired.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382264764115056338" /></a><br />No matter how busy I am, I always make time for nice toes. Since salon pedicures are expensive and I'd rather put that money towards a massage or a beauty product, I prefer to do my own. Besides, I think I do a better job myself. Quick, easy, affordable, DIY pedicures are one of my most enjoyable beauty rituals. After taking care of my two year-old all day, that half hour alone spent painting my toenails in the bathroom sometimes feels like a whole day at the spa. I also enjoy planning in advance what colors to wear. Obviously, it's not one of the day's more important details, which is why I find it so much fun to think about. It's a nice little escape for a couple of seconds or so.<br /><br />To celebrate the last few (and hopefully great!) days of summer I am wearing my perfect red (after trying many), OPI Red. It's rich, classic, and just a touch on the blue-red side with a very, very slight pink iridescence. It goes on like a dream and wears like iron. I wanted to pick a shade I really love because with the cold weather just around the corner, it's the last chance for my feet to be on public display until spring 2010.<br /><br />Next up will be the very exciting first pedicure of fall and of course I have already chosen the color because I refuse to slack off and neglect my feet just because it's no longer sandal season. And the winner is:<br /><br />'Angora Cardi' from the new Essie Fall Collection, a deep, dusty rose/plum cream. Check it out, it's lovely. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.essie.com">www.essie.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.opi.com">www.opi.com</a><br /><br />Drop me a line and let me know your fall favourites!<br /><br />And now back to the more pressing things on the list of things to do today...Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-62523435788199350692009-09-08T14:34:00.016-04:002010-01-08T10:07:53.811-05:00Vbeam Laser, the scoop!Due to what I believe is a combination of mild rosacea and overzealous use of a Buf Puf as a teenager, I had quite a few broken capillaries on my cheeks, chin, and nose. For a good part of my twenties, I accepted my facial redness as something I'd just have to live with. I tried all kinds of different skincare products, from anti-redness creams with supposed 'capillary-strengthening' ingredients such as horse chestnut, licorice root, vitamin K, etc. to a variety of prescription creams, gels, and lotions. The thing is, once the capillaries are visible, no cream is going to get rid of them. So then I set out to cover them with all kinds of green-tinted day creams, concealers, bases, and finishing powders. Yes, green does indeed cancel red, but then you have to cover the green with more makeup, which only added to my skin problems. I spent a lot of money and wasted a lot of time, so I was thrilled when Vbeam laser became an option for me.<br /><br /><strong>'It's like little rubber bands, snapping on your face'</strong><br /><br />How many times have you heard this phrase used to describe laser procedures? Well, I'm here to tell you Vbeam is a hell of a lot more painful than that. It's really more like thick rubber bands (that are on fire) being pulled back really far, and then snapped hard on your face. At first you think, this isn't so bad, but after 5 minutes or so of being zapped all over at a rate of about one snap per second, you literally feel like you've stuck your face in a hornet's nest. The laser machine itself makes a lot of strange sounds, and you hear a 'splat-crunch' noise with every shot. I do get some comic relief when the technician, whose first language is French, tells me to 'watch out!' as she does more sensitive areas (such as the tip of the nose) as if I should jump off the table and run away or something. I usually end up laughing and I'm pretty sure she thinks I'm crazy. Anyway, afterwards, you feel the burn for at least a half hour and you may have bruising or swelling. I only have bruising sometimes, but I always have the swelling, which goes away after a few days. The difference is visible almost immediately, but it takes about a month to see the full result.<br /><br />So why do I do this? It sounds terrible and unfortunately (as with most beauty treatments) it does hurt, but the results are still well worth it if you suffer from facial redness and rosacea. Along with vaporizing all those tiny broken blood vessels that make skin look uneven, it also diminishes fine lines and shrinks the pores. I love the way it gives me a clear, snow-white porcelain complexion. My skin is less oily and I rarely have breakouts. So far, this is my tenth Vbeam laser treatment. The first time, I did a series of 6 treatments, once a month. Now I just do touch-ups once or twice a year.<br /><br />So if you're tired of wasting money on ineffective or temporary solutions like 'redness relieving' creams, 'calming' lotions, and green concealers, I highly recommend Vbeam laser. It is a proven, effective, and safe treatment. At $225 CAD per session, the results are worth every penny.Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-21907691042375697482009-09-06T10:49:00.021-04:002010-01-08T10:08:33.738-05:00DHC Deep Cleansing Oil: FabulousI always consider myself extremely lucky when I find a skincare product that a) doesn't irritate my sensitive skin or cause my rosacea to flare up, b) doesn't clog my pores and c) actually delivers what it promises. I had been using the same facial cleanser (a product recommended by my dermatologist) for the last 8 years, thinking that this was as good it was going to get for me. Though it didn't irritate my skin, unfortunately this cleanser never really did a great job of removing my makeup or making my face feel really clean. So, I have always been on the look out for a cleanser that would thoroughly, yet gently, do the job.<br /><br />I think I have found my holy grail of facial cleansers in DHC Deep Cleansing Oil. <br /><br />I had been hearing about this product for a while, but it wasn't until I saw a full-page ad for it in Elle France that I was reminded that I really should give it a try. I ordered the smaller-sized bottle (2.3 fl. oz. for $12.50 CAD) and with it received 6 samples, and a $5-off coupon for my next order. Nice.<br /><br />I am pleased to report (after 3 weeks of use) that not only does it dissolve all traces of makeup, dirt, and excess oil, it seems to really deep clean my pores, making them less congested and less visible. My skin never feels dry or tight after using this, and I haven't had any breakouts or other reactions. My face is soft and glowing, so much though, that I seriously thought I might be pregnant again. I'm not though, it's just the DHC. <br /><br />So I will have another glass of wine after all...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dhccare.com">www.dhccare.com</a>Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-38735740441689493282009-08-30T21:31:00.004-04:002010-01-08T10:09:08.684-05:00An observation...I have a new appreciation for that bit of fat on my upper stomach area. Upon further inspection, I realized that it seems to be doing a pretty good job of holding up my boobs. I think I'll keep it. <br /><br />How's <em>that</em> for optimism?Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-17495549553149617592009-08-22T14:22:00.011-04:002010-01-08T10:10:06.594-05:00The Hot ListLet me start by saying that Allure magazine is my favourite magazine ever. I've faithfully read almost every single issue since it came out. It never disappoints, and over the years I've gotten some fantastic ideas from it. 'The Hot List', their best new addition to the magazine, has been appearing in almost every issue for about a year now. Allure chooses celebrities, and brings us a list of their favourite things-beauty products, fashion, wines, places, books-you name it, based on a different theme for each list. Often I find really great products to try that otherwise I may not have heard of, and since celebrities have access to the best of everything, often for free, their tastes tend to be quite discerning.<br /><br />Since I've been busy trying a lot of new products this summer, I'd like to bring you my first 'hot list'. <br /><br /><strong>MY BEST SUMMER DISCOVERIES, 2009</strong><br /><br />1. <strong>Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick for Body </strong><br />So luxurious and beautifully packaged, I couldn't resist treating myself. This pressed powder leaves a gorgeous gleam on the skin, smells nice, and the enormous compact will last for years. This is one of the few shimmer products that doesn't break me out in the décolleté area. The brush that goes with it is wonderful quality, and also worth investing in. Pure glamour.<br /><br /><br />2. <strong>Benefit 'CORALista'</strong><br />This beautiful pinky-peach blush is pigmented, but easy to apply because the formula is so smooth and sheer. The shimmer particles are very small, giving a very glowy finish. It looks great on all light to medium-dark skintones, as either a blush on it's own, or as an accent color on top of bronzer.<br /><br />3. <strong>Child Perfume Oil</strong><br />In a city where everyone seems to break out the Dolce & Gabbana 'Light Blue' as soon as the warm weather hits, I prefer something a little more obscure. Child Perfume Oil is a luscious blend of pikake and musk, it melts into the skin and lasts forever. On me, it smells very clean and tropical, but there's a very sexy edge to it. It's been getting me lots of compliments, and so far I have yet to smell it on anyone else.<br /><br />4. <strong>Nars Lip Gloss in 'Turkish Delight'</strong><br />This lip gloss is the perfect shade for softening any lip colors that are too bright. It imparts a pale pink milky glow that makes the lips look fresh and full. The formula is non-sticky and lasting, everyone should own this versatile shade. <br /><br />5. <strong>J. Crew Leather Capri Sandals</strong><br />Such a bargain at $49.50, I just had to rave about them. They are the perfect 'barely there' sandal, as slinky and sexy as you can get in a flat shoe, and comfortable, too. I purchased mine in the 'metallic ice' shade, to match my silver jewelry I like to wear in summer. These are really well-made too. <br /><br /><strong>Honorable mentions go to:</strong> <br />OPI 'Miami Beet' Nail Polish <br />'Andante' Cave de Ribeauvillé Alsace wine<br />Gillette Venus Razors<br /><br />Hope you're all enjoying the heat.Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-66481409055776407272009-08-19T15:37:00.007-04:002010-01-08T10:10:55.498-05:00The French Manicure, my latest rediscoveryAs a teenager, my pursuit of sophistication and glamour one day led me to purchase one of those drugstore French manicure sets, complete with the guide-strips, white polish, and nude topcoat. After much trial and error, I finally perfected what I thought was a darn good-looking French manicure. I was so excited to show off my handiwork to my beautiful and chic Swiss exchange student friend. <br /><br />'That's not a French manicure', she informed me. 'For a real French manicure you need the white pencil'. And so it's been Revlon's Nail Whitener pencil ever since.<br /><br />Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago when I was cleaning out my manicure box and came across a white pencil. It had been a few years, but now this simple, quick manicure technique suddenly made all the more sense to me now that I'm a mom with limited self-care time. <br /><br />Here's my French manicure how-to:<br /><br />1. Apply a rich scrub to your hands and nails, focusing on the cuticles. Massage and rinse off. One Minute Manicure is a nice product, but Sally Hansen and some other less expensive drugstore brands make good scrubs too.<br /><br />2. While rinsing hands, use the tip of a nail file to clean under the tips of your nails.<br /><br />3. After drying hands, but while they're still damp, apply the pencil under the tips of the nails. I find a little moisture helps the pencil go on more smoothly. I usually do a touch up with the pencil every couple of days or so.<br /><br />4. Finish by buffing your nails to a high shine, or remove any scrub residue from the nail bed with polish remover, and paint on your favourite clear polish. These days I am loving Duri Rejuvacote (super-shiny and long lasting) or if you want a product that is free of formaldehyde and toluene, Ecrinal Durcisseur Vernis Brillant is excellent.<br /><br />Quick, easy, pretty, youthful, clean, classic.Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-70963797989427017822009-08-01T18:55:00.011-04:002009-08-20T20:57:57.923-04:00Happy Birthday to...Me!Today I started my day the same way I always do on my birthday, with a good look in the mirror. I had to see if anything had changed since yesterday, when I was still only 35 years old. Now that I'm 36 and past the midpoint of my thirties, I guess I was expecting to somehow look and feel different today. Well, actually, I do. I feel like I'm succeeding in my mission to look healthy and feel great. <br /><br />In the past year, I've discovered some fantastic products (Prevage, I love you!), developed some good habits (exercise and more exercise) and read some great books. I feel more in touch with myself and more sure of what fits into my life and what doesn't. I am more confident in saying no and burning bridges. I love that about getting older. I love watching my daughter grow and learn so many new things. More and more motherhood is feeling like my greatest and most rewarding accomplishment.<br /><br />Of course I'm still planning to do all I can to look and feel 25 by the time I'm 40, though. Taking good care of your body is a great accomplishment and the perfect birthday gift to yourself.Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7679905098869186339.post-67830566096075174302009-06-04T13:09:00.008-04:002010-01-08T10:13:04.189-05:00My latest diet trick: B.Y.O.D.Now that my husband and I have finally, finally found a great babysitter and are enjoying weekly 'date nights' again, there is brand new threat to my figure: <br /><br />RESTAURANTS. <br /><br />It's funny, we've been so busy with our daughter, and with no family around to help us out, this hadn't been an issue for a long time, we hadn't been out in ages. I had forgotten how delicious food could be when someone else prepared it (and washed the dishes afterward), and what it was like to have time alone with my husband. I had even almost forgotten how to walk in high heels. Life sure changes when a baby comes into the picture...<br /><br />Unfortunately though, I hadn't forgotten how to stuff my face with a three-course meal and wash it down with half a bottle of wine. With bathing suit season and our annual trip to Croatia fast approaching, I want to watch it a little. I needed to learn how to eat in restaurants again without overdoing it. I knew I had to substitute something somewhere in order to be able to keep enjoying drinks and dinners out on the town without wrecking all the progress I've made with my workouts. I knew I had to give something up without sacrificing pleasure.<br /><br />My trick? I call it B.Y.O.D., 'bring your own dessert'. Oh, and yes I am well aware that it's a touch obsessive-compulsive, but it's working so far. Dessert is a major weakness for me, and after a great meal in a restaurant who doesn't want to finish with something sweet and decadent? The problem is, most desserts are humongous and can have almost a day's worth of calories in one serving. Not to mention, the more expensive the dessert, the more I feel compelled to get my money's worth and finish every last fat and sugar-laden bite on the plate. <br /><br />So I decided bring my own, smaller dessert to eat in the car on the way home. <br /><br />Usually, it's a couple of squares of dark chocolate in a Ziploc bag that I keep in my purse, I try to keep it to under 100 calories. I don't always eat them, but I know they're there, and that's enough to save me from the evil creme brulee or the chocolate souffle.Elisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16151413762764609534noreply@blogger.com0