I got this on one of those email forwards and the reason it up on my blog is that this is a blog for happiness and a better life. Most people have low self esteem for reasons that even there friends don't think of. We need to remember our own self worth everyday. We need to understand that we all have flaws, and there are people who like and love us anyways, as we also love them. Keep these in mind, put them up somewhere in your home to remind you when you are down or look at it everyday as a way to keep from getting down.
Remember our mind is a powerful tool. If you say and think "I am worthless" (or whatever negative thing you say and think to yourself) soon you will believe it. Start off by by NOT saying it. OK you may still think it - but don't say it out loud. Once you are out of the habit of saying it out loud, now try not to think it. Soon one day you will find that you have gone awhile with out thinking that bad phrase
On other thing everyone needs to learn to do, is to take and receive compliments graciously. If someone give you a compliment, smile and say "thank you" weather you believe them or not. It is incredibly rude when someone gives you a compliment and then you disagree with them.
-Suzie
This should probably be taped to your bathroom mirror where one could read it every day. You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.
1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for.
2.. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.
3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you.
4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
6. You mean the world to someone.
7. You are special and unique.
8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.
10.. When you think the world has turned its back on yo u take another look.
11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.
I would rather have one rose and a kind word from a friend while I'm here than a whole truck load when I'm gone.
Happiness keeps You Sweet,
Trials keep You Strong,
Sorrows keep You Human,
Failures keeps You Humble,
Success keeps You Glowing
Friday, May 15, 2009
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Mama’s Enchilada Casserole Recipe
I love enchiladas – but they are SOOOO labor intensive. So I invented this recipe, all the ingredients and less of a hassle. I had some avocado so I just topped the casserole with it (once it was cooked and on our plates).
Mama’s (thats me) Enchilada Casserole Recipe
*if you want the onions to be sweeter ….
-1 Tlb olive oil in a pan
-cook onions until a bit soft.
-set aside in another bowl
Cheese Enchiladas:
Ingredients:
Corn tortillas
Cheader Cheese (grated – big pile)
Jack Cheese (grated – big pile)
White medium sized Onion (coarsely chopped)
Red Enchilada Sauce (I like LaVictoria best) – Big can
Layer-
Sauce
Tortillas
Onions
Both Cheese’s
Sauce
Tortillas
Both Cheese’s
Sauce
Tortillas
Sauce (pour the rest of the can out here)
Both Cheese’s
-add sliced olives on top
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 mins to 45 mins until cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling on the side
Let cool and serve with a side salad, vanilla ice-cream would follow this meal good if looking for a dessert.
Chicken Enchiladas:
Ingredients:
Corn tortillas
Shredded chicken (about 3 [2 if you are being frugal] breast for a family of 4)
Jack Cheese (grated – big pile)
White medium sized Onion (coarsely chopped)
Green Enchilada Sauce (I like LaVictoria best) – Big can
-Boil Chicken for about 30 mins – until the juices run clear and no pink on the inside
-While its still hot – shread the chicken with two fork’s
Layer-
Sauce
Tortillas
Onions
Chicken
Cheese
Sauce
Tortillas
Cheese
Sauce
Tortillas
Sauce (pour the rest of the can out here)
Cheese
-add sliced olives on top
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 mins to 45 mins until cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling on the side
Let cool and serve with a side salad, vanilla ice-cream would follow this meal good if looking for a dessert.
Beef Enchiladas:
Ingredients:
Corn tortillas
1 lb ground beef
Cheader Cheese (grated – big pile)
White medium sized Onion (coarsely chopped)
Red Enchilada Sauce (I like LaVictoria best) – Big can
-Brown beef in a pan on the stove.
-Drain off grease and set aside in a bowl
Layer-
Sauce
Tortillas
Onions
Beef
Cheese
Sauce
Tortillas
Cheese
Sauce
Tortillas
Sauce (pour the rest of the can out here)
Cheese
-add sliced olives on top
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 mins to 45 mins until cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling on the side
Let cool and serve with a side salad, vanilla ice-cream would follow this meal good if looking for a dessert.
Mama’s (thats me) Enchilada Casserole Recipe*if you want the onions to be sweeter ….
-1 Tlb olive oil in a pan
-cook onions until a bit soft.
-set aside in another bowl
Cheese Enchiladas:
Ingredients:
Corn tortillas
Cheader Cheese (grated – big pile)
Jack Cheese (grated – big pile)
White medium sized Onion (coarsely chopped)
Red Enchilada Sauce (I like LaVictoria best) – Big can
Layer-
Sauce
Tortillas
Onions
Both Cheese’s
Sauce
Tortillas
Both Cheese’s
Sauce
Tortillas
Sauce (pour the rest of the can out here)
Both Cheese’s
-add sliced olives on top
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 mins to 45 mins until cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling on the side
Let cool and serve with a side salad, vanilla ice-cream would follow this meal good if looking for a dessert.
Chicken Enchiladas:
Ingredients:
Corn tortillas
Shredded chicken (about 3 [2 if you are being frugal] breast for a family of 4)
Jack Cheese (grated – big pile)
White medium sized Onion (coarsely chopped)
Green Enchilada Sauce (I like LaVictoria best) – Big can
-Boil Chicken for about 30 mins – until the juices run clear and no pink on the inside
-While its still hot – shread the chicken with two fork’s
Layer-
Sauce
Tortillas
Onions
Chicken
Cheese
Sauce
Tortillas
Cheese
Sauce
Tortillas
Sauce (pour the rest of the can out here)
Cheese
-add sliced olives on top
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 mins to 45 mins until cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling on the side
Let cool and serve with a side salad, vanilla ice-cream would follow this meal good if looking for a dessert.
Beef Enchiladas:
Ingredients:
Corn tortillas
1 lb ground beef
Cheader Cheese (grated – big pile)
White medium sized Onion (coarsely chopped)
Red Enchilada Sauce (I like LaVictoria best) – Big can
-Brown beef in a pan on the stove.
-Drain off grease and set aside in a bowl
Layer-
Sauce
Tortillas
Onions
Beef
Cheese
Sauce
Tortillas
Cheese
Sauce
Tortillas
Sauce (pour the rest of the can out here)
Cheese
-add sliced olives on top
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 mins to 45 mins until cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling on the side
Let cool and serve with a side salad, vanilla ice-cream would follow this meal good if looking for a dessert.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Saving With Coupons
i got this from a very good site that emails me once a week with savings tips. I highly recomend you sing up (link at the left of my blog ...) - Suzie
In light of the current economic crisis, take advantage of every savings opportunity available. Get in the habit of using coupons to save money on many of the items you purchase. With the popularity of print and online coupons on the rise, retailers are offering more deals with better savings. Here are some tips to ensure you find the best deals and maximize your savings.
Start your coupon search in the Sunday paper’s circulars and on the internet for stores where you usually shop. Many online coupons can be printed out for use in the store.
Time the use of your coupon wisely. Most retailers allow you to use your coupon for items that are already on sale — this can add up to additional savings!
For each coupon, read the fine print to make sure it's still valid and accepted at the stores you frequent.
If you need to buy 2 or more of an item to redeem a coupon, make sure you can use the items before the expiration date.
Cutting coupons is just one of many ways to save money each day. Continue to employ a variety of savings techniques in your daily life. Remember, small changes can add up!
Read more on reducing your spending.Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.
In light of the current economic crisis, take advantage of every savings opportunity available. Get in the habit of using coupons to save money on many of the items you purchase. With the popularity of print and online coupons on the rise, retailers are offering more deals with better savings. Here are some tips to ensure you find the best deals and maximize your savings.
Start your coupon search in the Sunday paper’s circulars and on the internet for stores where you usually shop. Many online coupons can be printed out for use in the store.
Time the use of your coupon wisely. Most retailers allow you to use your coupon for items that are already on sale — this can add up to additional savings!
For each coupon, read the fine print to make sure it's still valid and accepted at the stores you frequent.
If you need to buy 2 or more of an item to redeem a coupon, make sure you can use the items before the expiration date.
Cutting coupons is just one of many ways to save money each day. Continue to employ a variety of savings techniques in your daily life. Remember, small changes can add up!
Read more on reducing your spending.Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Buying and Selling on Craigs List
Buying on CL!
Oh how I love buying on CL. I have found so many a deal. They are hard to find - but you can do it. Sometimes it takes a few weeks to get it, but worth it in the end because you can save a lot of money.
I got a matching set of couches (reg couch and a love seat) for $125 for BOTH! The guy had started listing them at $500 but he was moving by small hatch back cross country on Monday ... so the Friday before the move ... he dropped it to $125 .... I had wanted them at $500 but couldn't afford it - so at $125, we snatched them right up. These couches were less then 2 years old. He was a bachelor, with no kids and no pets and he didn't smoke. So they were like new!
That is how you get the great deals - they people who just need it gone and are willing to take any amount of cash.
Altogether we have gotten the couch set ($125), our TV stand and 2 matching chairs (all 3 from the same lady for $100), 2 bookcases that match the IKEA bookcase we had gotten 7 years ago when we got married and they didn't make anymore ($100 for both - orig cost was $500 for 1), my sewing table ($100), my serging table($60), and my husband and my bedrooms set $200 (9 drawer dresser with mirror - two 3 drawer dressers and a head board we don't use because we had already bought a different headboard ($100) off CL) house by CL at a fraction of the price. And all of this is in mint condition and wood furniture. Mostly vintage because I love mid century modern!
Selling on CL!
If you want to make good money .... you have to be patient. Be willing to relist your items a few weeks in a row. (listings only last 7 days) Ask a fair price for what you have. Don't be the most expensive and only if you NEED it to move fast list it as the cheepest.
Honestly most people will try to bargain with you. So I always ask more then I feel I need. Then if I get extra cause they pay the full price, then I have more money for my family. All is good.
CL lists you put up 4 pictures. Take 4 pictures, the better the pictures the more likely to sell. make sure the background is clean and nice looking. If I see something in a dirty room, I assume that these people didn't take good care of the item and I don't even bother calling on it. So make sure it looks like it was kept in a place that was well kept.
Be as detailed in your description as passable. People always want measurements, include those. Include any major landmarks or roads you are buy so they have an idea if they are willing to drive that far before waisting your time.
I sold some baby stuff that folds up. I included pictures of it standing and folded so they know how it moves or will fit where they want to put it.
I like to know why people are selling and how often it was used and thins like that. I realize that people can lie about these things, but CL is really a place where we need to trust. So include the life of the item or at least all you know.
I sold a lamp recently, the house we are living in was built into the 50's. I believed it was from that era. I also know that it was working when I took it down. I was doing an Estate sale, so I had a lot to list and didn't have time to clean everything. I mentioned all that in the listing. They knew all I knew about it.
Always clean it first, you are more likely to get the higher price. (If you have time anyways!)
*When I shop... I shop slightly above my price range, if I want something I cant afford I will email a person and offer what I can afford. Sometimes they take it sometimes they don't.
*When I sell I list slightly higher then I want, sometime it sells for that, sometimes it doesn't.
SCAMS: be careful, if it sounds like a scam ... it is! Cash only, they come and pick it up (if you are selling) If you are buying .... Cash only! don't send Cash and expect it to be delivered later no matter what they promise.
Free Stuff: CL also has a section you can list things for free. Sometimes your item doesn't sell at all - but you still want it gone. List it in the free section. Pretty much someone will take just about anything for free!
Here are the LISTING pictures of some of the items we bought on CL ......
Our couches
This is the vintage concole our TV sits on.
The 2 chairs we got with the console.
My serging table.
My sewing table
A rug we got to go with the couches... 
Oh how I love buying on CL. I have found so many a deal. They are hard to find - but you can do it. Sometimes it takes a few weeks to get it, but worth it in the end because you can save a lot of money.
I got a matching set of couches (reg couch and a love seat) for $125 for BOTH! The guy had started listing them at $500 but he was moving by small hatch back cross country on Monday ... so the Friday before the move ... he dropped it to $125 .... I had wanted them at $500 but couldn't afford it - so at $125, we snatched them right up. These couches were less then 2 years old. He was a bachelor, with no kids and no pets and he didn't smoke. So they were like new!
That is how you get the great deals - they people who just need it gone and are willing to take any amount of cash.
Altogether we have gotten the couch set ($125), our TV stand and 2 matching chairs (all 3 from the same lady for $100), 2 bookcases that match the IKEA bookcase we had gotten 7 years ago when we got married and they didn't make anymore ($100 for both - orig cost was $500 for 1), my sewing table ($100), my serging table($60), and my husband and my bedrooms set $200 (9 drawer dresser with mirror - two 3 drawer dressers and a head board we don't use because we had already bought a different headboard ($100) off CL) house by CL at a fraction of the price. And all of this is in mint condition and wood furniture. Mostly vintage because I love mid century modern!
Selling on CL!
If you want to make good money .... you have to be patient. Be willing to relist your items a few weeks in a row. (listings only last 7 days) Ask a fair price for what you have. Don't be the most expensive and only if you NEED it to move fast list it as the cheepest.
Honestly most people will try to bargain with you. So I always ask more then I feel I need. Then if I get extra cause they pay the full price, then I have more money for my family. All is good.
CL lists you put up 4 pictures. Take 4 pictures, the better the pictures the more likely to sell. make sure the background is clean and nice looking. If I see something in a dirty room, I assume that these people didn't take good care of the item and I don't even bother calling on it. So make sure it looks like it was kept in a place that was well kept.
Be as detailed in your description as passable. People always want measurements, include those. Include any major landmarks or roads you are buy so they have an idea if they are willing to drive that far before waisting your time.
I sold some baby stuff that folds up. I included pictures of it standing and folded so they know how it moves or will fit where they want to put it.
I like to know why people are selling and how often it was used and thins like that. I realize that people can lie about these things, but CL is really a place where we need to trust. So include the life of the item or at least all you know.
I sold a lamp recently, the house we are living in was built into the 50's. I believed it was from that era. I also know that it was working when I took it down. I was doing an Estate sale, so I had a lot to list and didn't have time to clean everything. I mentioned all that in the listing. They knew all I knew about it.
Always clean it first, you are more likely to get the higher price. (If you have time anyways!)
*When I shop... I shop slightly above my price range, if I want something I cant afford I will email a person and offer what I can afford. Sometimes they take it sometimes they don't.
*When I sell I list slightly higher then I want, sometime it sells for that, sometimes it doesn't.
SCAMS: be careful, if it sounds like a scam ... it is! Cash only, they come and pick it up (if you are selling) If you are buying .... Cash only! don't send Cash and expect it to be delivered later no matter what they promise.
Free Stuff: CL also has a section you can list things for free. Sometimes your item doesn't sell at all - but you still want it gone. List it in the free section. Pretty much someone will take just about anything for free!
Here are the LISTING pictures of some of the items we bought on CL ......
Our couchesThis is the vintage concole our TV sits on.The 2 chairs we got with the console.My serging table.My sewing table
A rug we got to go with the couches...This is the headboard we love ....
This is our dresser set. There are 2 of the 3 drawer dresser. And the long dresser with the mirror and the headboard that we wont use. I knew that if they were sold wood they would clean up nicely and I also knew that alot of people wouldnt call on this set because the pictures were bad and it looked dirty. However when I went to look at it - it had been sitting in a vacant house house for 9 years. These dressers cleaned up wonderfully! And we got a sweet deal and solid wood furniture!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Weenies Potato’s and Cheese (oh my!)
This is a family favorite and easy and inexpensive!So you take a pack of Hot Dogs and boil them. Get about 3 cups finished dehydrated mashed potatoes. And ½ lbs of grated cheddar cheese. Put the hot dogs in the backing dish and cut them down the middle lengthwise (but not all the way threw) and spread it open. Then scoop up some potatoes and fill the middle of the hot dogs. Now evenly cover the mashed ‘tatoes with the grated cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees for 20 mins at the min to melt the cheese and for crispy cheese about 30-40 mins. Add frozen microwave green beans and poof dinner is done.
This is really a kid pleaser!
Friday, March 27, 2009
10 Suggestions for Successful Parenting
1. Take time to always be at the crossroads in the lives of your children, whether they be six or sixteen.
2. Take time to be a real friend to your children.
3. Take time to read to your children.
Remember what the poet wrote: You may have tangible wealth untold; Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold. Richer than I you can never be— I had a mother who read to me.
4. Take time to pray with your children.
5. Take time to have a meaningful weekly family nights. Make this one of your great family traditions.
6. Take time to be together at mealtimes as often as possible.
7. Take time daily to read the scriptures together as a family.
8. Take time to do things together as a family.
9. Take time to teach your children.
10. Take time to truly love your children. A mother’s unqualified love approaches Christlike love
-Ezra Taft Benson
2. Take time to be a real friend to your children.
3. Take time to read to your children.
Remember what the poet wrote: You may have tangible wealth untold; Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold. Richer than I you can never be— I had a mother who read to me.
4. Take time to pray with your children.
5. Take time to have a meaningful weekly family nights. Make this one of your great family traditions.
6. Take time to be together at mealtimes as often as possible.
7. Take time daily to read the scriptures together as a family.
8. Take time to do things together as a family.
9. Take time to teach your children.
10. Take time to truly love your children. A mother’s unqualified love approaches Christlike love
-Ezra Taft Benson
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Making your own Jewlery
OK this is so on the wants only list - but anything to help save money on the wants is a good thing! I warn you that while this can save money - you can also get addicted, so keep your spending in check. I could easily spend $100 in a bead store in under 10 mins. And since I don’t have $100 for beads - it takes me about 1 hr to pick which ones are going home with me! :)
If you want to start up jewelry making it will cost a bit to get the tools that you use and some good storage for the beads and findings that you don’t use. You will always have leftover’s (that is better then being one short on a project!)
Why I like to bead for myself. #1 I get to make it and for some reason this just makes me happy. #2 I get exactly what I want. #3 I pick every color and shape #4 It matches what I want perfectly! Also my FAVORITE reason for making my own jewelry, I can make matching earrings, necklace and bracelet all at the same time. I feel like a million bucks when I wear it! "I love it when a plan comes together" - Hannibal Smith
Depending on what type of beads you buy it can be cheap or expensive. I recommend the middle ground. Its nice but won't break the budget.
Here is what I have made so far this year, for me to keep anyways - the stuff for others has already gone to its new home(s).
One night a church we had an activity to make some bracelets, and that is where I got the above and below bracelet. It was a wonderful activity!
I actually made this bracelet first for my grandmother for Christmas, but loved it so much made on for me with the leftovers. :)
I Made this to go with an awesome pair of shoes I own that needed something to match it! The shoes are an awesome metalic green pair of flats that match the center bead.
I found a black and white dress with one small line of red that looked good on me, and needed to be altered to be perfect. I figured if I was going to all that trouble with a dress I might as well make jewelry to match. I call this my custom dress outfit.
If you want to start up jewelry making it will cost a bit to get the tools that you use and some good storage for the beads and findings that you don’t use. You will always have leftover’s (that is better then being one short on a project!)
Why I like to bead for myself. #1 I get to make it and for some reason this just makes me happy. #2 I get exactly what I want. #3 I pick every color and shape #4 It matches what I want perfectly! Also my FAVORITE reason for making my own jewelry, I can make matching earrings, necklace and bracelet all at the same time. I feel like a million bucks when I wear it! "I love it when a plan comes together" - Hannibal Smith
Depending on what type of beads you buy it can be cheap or expensive. I recommend the middle ground. Its nice but won't break the budget.
Here is what I have made so far this year, for me to keep anyways - the stuff for others has already gone to its new home(s).
One night a church we had an activity to make some bracelets, and that is where I got the above and below bracelet. It was a wonderful activity!
I actually made this bracelet first for my grandmother for Christmas, but loved it so much made on for me with the leftovers. :)
I Made this to go with an awesome pair of shoes I own that needed something to match it! The shoes are an awesome metalic green pair of flats that match the center bead.
I found a black and white dress with one small line of red that looked good on me, and needed to be altered to be perfect. I figured if I was going to all that trouble with a dress I might as well make jewelry to match. I call this my custom dress outfit.The Find
I added a link to the right side ... its a web site called "The Find" Its pretty neat you go there and type in your keyword and they bring up that search in TONS of stores ... so you shop a lot of stores at once. I found it on accident shopping for jewelry findings and google keeps pulling up THERE results and sending me there. I figure if that is where google is sending me, why don't I try it? And it has some stuff I didn't find on google. SO next time you are online shopping try it - you may get what you are looking for faster!
Instyle.com's Insider (secret) Cheapies
I was going to post the link, but I am not sure how long they will keep the info up ... So here it is.
Tight times demand smart moves, right? So we asked three bargain-hunting beauty experts to show us the best drugstore choices for our dollars
Ken Paves, Hair Stylist
When given the task of stocking his kit with inexpensive styling essentials, Ken Paves hit the ground running -- straight to beauty emporium Ulta. "Some of my favorite products I discovered as a result of lost luggage and my tools not getting to a shoot," says Paves, who works with Jennifer Lopez and Jessica Simpson. Before you shop, he suggests taking inventory and making a list. "If not, you might waste money on things you don't need."
Paves's Picks1. VO5 Hot Oil Treatment, $4 "A cheap treatment that has always screamed luxury to me. It guarantees a great hair day."
2. Vidal Sassoon No Crimp elastics, $3 "They give you just enough hold without damaging your hair."
3. Ulta Ultimate Size travel blow-dryer, $25 "Enough abusing your hair with a dryer that's professional grade! This is lightweight and gets the job done."
4. DCNL Organics Natural Wood hairbrush, $9 "It gives lift and volume without creating static."
5. Woody's Big Stick Style Stick, $18 "Great for defining layers and adding texture to your blowout."
6. Ken Paves Healthy Hair Try Me kit, $34 "The perfect travel sizes for your weekend getaways."
7. Karina small claw clips, $5 each "I find these tiny ones are easier to use than pins when securing updos."
8. Bellissima headband, $10 "This gives a chic, classic look that can instantly transform limp hair."
9. DCNL Porcupine Cushion hairbrush, $25 "Works just as well as other mixed-bristle brushes that are far more expensive."
10. Göt 2b Defiant Define + Shine pomade, $6 "A little goes a long way to smooth flyaways. One tub will last until you're 115."
Doesn't Scrimp On…
Shampoo: "Some inexpensive ones give that squeaky-clean feeling that isn't always best for your hair. Look for sulfate-free formulas; they are less aggressive."
Conditioner: "This is the foundation of your hairstyling. The best products make hair smoother but don't coat it with heavy silicones."
Defrizzer: "Anything that contains a high amount of dimethi-cone is worth the splurge. Otherwise, you end up with a watered-down version that doesn't perform as well."
Kristofer Buckle, Makeup Artist
Kristofer Buckle, who works with Lindsay Lohan and Renée Zellweger, isn't shy when it comes to declaring his love for drugstore products: "The packaging isn't fabulous, but that doesn't mean you won't get a fabulous lipstick or mascara inside." Shopping the Wal-Mart beauty aisles, he stocks up on old standbys and new favorites.
Buckle's Picks
1. Johnson & Johnson Lavender baby oil, $5 "Gives skin a gorgeous high-gloss look. I love that it doesn't smell tropical."
2. Maybelline N.Y. Colossal Volum' Express mascara, $8 "Gets right to the point, making lashes thick, black and long with just one coat."
3. Max Factor Color Genius Mineral bronzer in Sun Kissed, $9 "Not heavily pigmented, so you can really layer it without turning the color of a penny."
4. L'Oréal Paris Infallible lip gloss in Dulce de Leche, $10 "I can use this on everyone, from Christina Aguilera to Mary J. Blige."
5. Dove Deep Moisture Foaming Cleansing cloths, $7 "Perfect for removing makeup at night."
6. New York Color Cheek blush in Riverside Rose, $2 "This shade creates a natural-looking flush."
7. Max Factor Lipfinity 3D in Midori Glam, $9 "The color stays put but doesn't dry like house paint on your lips."
8. Cover Girl Eye Enhancers 1-Kit in Shimmering Onyx, $4 "It's iri-descent, so you can do a charcoal eye without it looking too harsh."
9. Alcon Naphcon A eye drops, $9 "They make you feel like you've slept hours, even when you haven't."
10. L'Oréal Paris True Match Blendable makeup, $11 "A versatile formula with a wide range of shades for every complexion."
11. Burt's Bees Beeswax lip balm, $3 "I love a balm that's not shiny. This one is moist and nourishing—and there is a bonus: It tastes like peppermints."
Doesn't Scrimp On…
Makeup Brushes: "The first thing you should do when you buy a blush or shadow is toss that little nylon brush. It's too small and won't blend well."
Translucent Powder: "A finely milled formula gives even the quickest makeup job a professional finish."
Eyelash Curler: "I've never found a cheap one that I love. Either the shape is wrong or the mechanism doesn't apply enough pressure."
Doris Day, Dermatologist
With all the ritzy ingredients turning up in skin-care jars (diamonds to brighten; gold to stimulate collagen!), most women think they have to spend a fortune to clear up their complexions. Not so, says New York City dermatologist Doris Day, who likes to stock up at CVS and gives her patients a shopping list that doesn't require a platinum card.
Day's Picks1. Olay Pro X Hydra Firming cream, $42 "It contains retinol, pentapeptides and niacinamide. I wish I could dip my whole body in it!"
2. Neutrogena Healthy Skin SPF 30 Glow Sheers, $13 "Two steps in one: sun protection and light coverage."
3. Aveeno Positively Radiant cleanser, $7 "Cleans skin without drying it. And it has soy, which helps even out skin tone."
4. Nature Made Vitamin D liquid soft gels, $11/90 "Vitamin D has been shown to be important in helping to prevent sun damage and calcium loss."
5. Olay Regenerist Eye Lifting serum, $22 "Its amino peptides and humectants improve fragile skin around the eye."
6. Revlon Colorstay Undereye concealer, $10 "With SPF 15 it assures adequate daytime protection for delicate skin."
7. Cerave moisturizing cream, $15 "The ideal texture: rich and creamy. But it sinks in very quickly."
8. Neutrogena Healthy Skin Rejuvenator, $42 "Exfoliation is an essential step in an anti-aging regimen. I like the consistency that using a device provides."
Doesn't Scrimp On…
Scrubs: "Exfoliators with natural particles like nutshells can be too abrasive and cause microscopic scratches that make your skin look dull."
Peels: "The problem with buying a peel at the drugstore is that you don't know what concentration you're getting. Chances are it will be too mild."
Mineral Makeup: "Check the ingredient label for talc -- some products use it as a filler, which makes it less expensive but can clog pores."
Tight times demand smart moves, right? So we asked three bargain-hunting beauty experts to show us the best drugstore choices for our dollars
Ken Paves, Hair Stylist
When given the task of stocking his kit with inexpensive styling essentials, Ken Paves hit the ground running -- straight to beauty emporium Ulta. "Some of my favorite products I discovered as a result of lost luggage and my tools not getting to a shoot," says Paves, who works with Jennifer Lopez and Jessica Simpson. Before you shop, he suggests taking inventory and making a list. "If not, you might waste money on things you don't need."
Paves's Picks1. VO5 Hot Oil Treatment, $4 "A cheap treatment that has always screamed luxury to me. It guarantees a great hair day."
2. Vidal Sassoon No Crimp elastics, $3 "They give you just enough hold without damaging your hair."
3. Ulta Ultimate Size travel blow-dryer, $25 "Enough abusing your hair with a dryer that's professional grade! This is lightweight and gets the job done."
4. DCNL Organics Natural Wood hairbrush, $9 "It gives lift and volume without creating static."
5. Woody's Big Stick Style Stick, $18 "Great for defining layers and adding texture to your blowout."
6. Ken Paves Healthy Hair Try Me kit, $34 "The perfect travel sizes for your weekend getaways."
7. Karina small claw clips, $5 each "I find these tiny ones are easier to use than pins when securing updos."
8. Bellissima headband, $10 "This gives a chic, classic look that can instantly transform limp hair."
9. DCNL Porcupine Cushion hairbrush, $25 "Works just as well as other mixed-bristle brushes that are far more expensive."
10. Göt 2b Defiant Define + Shine pomade, $6 "A little goes a long way to smooth flyaways. One tub will last until you're 115."
Doesn't Scrimp On…
Shampoo: "Some inexpensive ones give that squeaky-clean feeling that isn't always best for your hair. Look for sulfate-free formulas; they are less aggressive."
Conditioner: "This is the foundation of your hairstyling. The best products make hair smoother but don't coat it with heavy silicones."
Defrizzer: "Anything that contains a high amount of dimethi-cone is worth the splurge. Otherwise, you end up with a watered-down version that doesn't perform as well."
Kristofer Buckle, Makeup Artist
Kristofer Buckle, who works with Lindsay Lohan and Renée Zellweger, isn't shy when it comes to declaring his love for drugstore products: "The packaging isn't fabulous, but that doesn't mean you won't get a fabulous lipstick or mascara inside." Shopping the Wal-Mart beauty aisles, he stocks up on old standbys and new favorites.
Buckle's Picks
1. Johnson & Johnson Lavender baby oil, $5 "Gives skin a gorgeous high-gloss look. I love that it doesn't smell tropical."
2. Maybelline N.Y. Colossal Volum' Express mascara, $8 "Gets right to the point, making lashes thick, black and long with just one coat."
3. Max Factor Color Genius Mineral bronzer in Sun Kissed, $9 "Not heavily pigmented, so you can really layer it without turning the color of a penny."
4. L'Oréal Paris Infallible lip gloss in Dulce de Leche, $10 "I can use this on everyone, from Christina Aguilera to Mary J. Blige."
5. Dove Deep Moisture Foaming Cleansing cloths, $7 "Perfect for removing makeup at night."
6. New York Color Cheek blush in Riverside Rose, $2 "This shade creates a natural-looking flush."
7. Max Factor Lipfinity 3D in Midori Glam, $9 "The color stays put but doesn't dry like house paint on your lips."
8. Cover Girl Eye Enhancers 1-Kit in Shimmering Onyx, $4 "It's iri-descent, so you can do a charcoal eye without it looking too harsh."
9. Alcon Naphcon A eye drops, $9 "They make you feel like you've slept hours, even when you haven't."
10. L'Oréal Paris True Match Blendable makeup, $11 "A versatile formula with a wide range of shades for every complexion."
11. Burt's Bees Beeswax lip balm, $3 "I love a balm that's not shiny. This one is moist and nourishing—and there is a bonus: It tastes like peppermints."
Doesn't Scrimp On…
Makeup Brushes: "The first thing you should do when you buy a blush or shadow is toss that little nylon brush. It's too small and won't blend well."
Translucent Powder: "A finely milled formula gives even the quickest makeup job a professional finish."
Eyelash Curler: "I've never found a cheap one that I love. Either the shape is wrong or the mechanism doesn't apply enough pressure."
Doris Day, Dermatologist
With all the ritzy ingredients turning up in skin-care jars (diamonds to brighten; gold to stimulate collagen!), most women think they have to spend a fortune to clear up their complexions. Not so, says New York City dermatologist Doris Day, who likes to stock up at CVS and gives her patients a shopping list that doesn't require a platinum card.
Day's Picks1. Olay Pro X Hydra Firming cream, $42 "It contains retinol, pentapeptides and niacinamide. I wish I could dip my whole body in it!"
2. Neutrogena Healthy Skin SPF 30 Glow Sheers, $13 "Two steps in one: sun protection and light coverage."
3. Aveeno Positively Radiant cleanser, $7 "Cleans skin without drying it. And it has soy, which helps even out skin tone."
4. Nature Made Vitamin D liquid soft gels, $11/90 "Vitamin D has been shown to be important in helping to prevent sun damage and calcium loss."
5. Olay Regenerist Eye Lifting serum, $22 "Its amino peptides and humectants improve fragile skin around the eye."
6. Revlon Colorstay Undereye concealer, $10 "With SPF 15 it assures adequate daytime protection for delicate skin."
7. Cerave moisturizing cream, $15 "The ideal texture: rich and creamy. But it sinks in very quickly."
8. Neutrogena Healthy Skin Rejuvenator, $42 "Exfoliation is an essential step in an anti-aging regimen. I like the consistency that using a device provides."
Doesn't Scrimp On…
Scrubs: "Exfoliators with natural particles like nutshells can be too abrasive and cause microscopic scratches that make your skin look dull."
Peels: "The problem with buying a peel at the drugstore is that you don't know what concentration you're getting. Chances are it will be too mild."
Mineral Makeup: "Check the ingredient label for talc -- some products use it as a filler, which makes it less expensive but can clog pores."
Saturday, March 21, 2009
My verdict on Stenciling t-shirts
OK I had fabric spray paint that I tried on the turquoise shirt and I thought it might have bleed because the fabric was too stretchy, so I tried it on a regular t-shirt. NOPE it bleed again. I say 100% do not waist your money on fabric spray paint it doesn't work!
Notice how light the black gets after just one wash (the actual design!) the shirt on top has only been washed once!
This is after one washing too. The turquoise shirt has a stencil by paint brush on top (I don't like the looks that much) and the fabric spray paint on the bottom. ICK ICK ICK!
This is the Krylon indoor/outdoor flat black spray paint, after one wash! PERFECT!
This is the Krylon indoor/outdoor flat black spray paint, after two washes! STILL PERFECT!
Notice how light the black gets after just one wash (the actual design!) the shirt on top has only been washed once!
This is after one washing too. The turquoise shirt has a stencil by paint brush on top (I don't like the looks that much) and the fabric spray paint on the bottom. ICK ICK ICK!
This is the Krylon indoor/outdoor flat black spray paint, after one wash! PERFECT!This is the Krylon indoor/outdoor flat black spray paint, after two washes! STILL PERFECT!And this is the whole reason I started this journey ... I wanted to make this t-shirt. And after all that I messed it up! LOL its OK it was a good lesson. Because the stencil is so intricate the plastic is thin. I needed to spray MORE adhesive to the back of the stencil so it would stick better to the t-shirt AND it was windy when I was taping off the shirt with newspaper and it got folded and wasn't flat and that pulled the t-shirt just enough to lift the stencil and allow the over spray that you see instead of a crisp line. So I am OK with this boo boo cause I learned a very good lesson! And the t-shirt is a craft one, so its not totally expensive! I will remake it right the next time!
The moral of this story is use indoor/outdoor spray paint, take your time with the adhesive and make sure that all you paper lays flat while you are taping it down. Be patient with the many coats you have to do .. and then it will come out alright!
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