Simple Self-Care for the Holidays

Is there any time of year more stressful than right now? We both love and hate the holidays, am I right? I discovered Simple Self-Care recently and have fallen in love and calmed down. Created by my long-time friend Gretchen, a yoga instructor, and all around zen individual she whips up these all natural lip balms, roller ball scents and sprays that are to die for and really do make up Simple Self-Care. My girls went nuts over the Lip Love lip balms. In flavors like lime, lemon, grapefruit and peppermint; we all had a lip balm to love.  They go on clear, smooth and last a long time.  Made with ingredients like coconut oil, beeswax, apricot kernel oil and other natural components they don't dry out your lips.  Other scents are also available. They make great stocking stuffers … [Read more...]

Ways To Ensure Your Skin Shines Throughout The Harsh Winter

We worry about protecting our skin in summer because it can be damaged by the sun. It's colder during winter, but it can have a negative impact on your skin too. Guest poster Mila has ways to let your skin shine throughout the harsh winter. Even though skin will be hidden under more layers of clothes, there is no doubt that you'll want to keep it looking beautiful. Consider nourishing daily routine for your skin to give it the treatment it deserves. Jump In A Warm Sauna We'll start with this one because it's going to be very cold outside, so you'll love nothing more than jumping into a hot sauna. Not only are they relaxing enough to banish the winter blues, but they're also very good for your skin. The reason they're so effective is because they help flush your body of … [Read more...]

Beauty Bloggers Tell All

A few weeks ago I was asked to be part of a group of 45 Beauty Bloggers giving up their list of must-have or favorite products. These items made the short list for me. Check out what other beauty bloggers from around the world had to say here. Want more of my favorites?  Sure, why not? A new season brings on a new list of wants and needs, am I right?  I myself am ridiculously in love with the new gel coat polish from Essie. What about you?  What are some of your favorite beauty products that get you through the day and night?   … [Read more...]

Share-A-Haircut this August

*Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. Compensation was received and all opinions are my own. It's that time again!  Heading back to school means we are teaming up with Hair Cuttery again this year to Share-A-Haircut this August. Yes, the girls are already getting ready for back to school. I totally ordered all their school supplies off Amazon this year.  No more fighting in the back to school aisle this year!  Not this time. We did it last year and we are back at it because honestly who can resist taking part in the 17th year of this campaign?  Did you know that 55,000 haircuts were donated to victims of domestic violence by Hair Cuttery this past spring? Yes, ma'am!   Seriously, when did she get this big? Now Hair Cuttery is giving free haircuts to … [Read more...]

Cool Skincare Tips for the Hot Summer

Getting ready for the summer is an exciting time with the swimming, barbecues, outdoor activities and spending quality time with the family. However, getting the family, especially the kiddos, excited about proper skincare isn’t always fun and games. And to add to it, us, the hectic mommies, often forget about protecting our own skin. As a busy mom, you’re always looking to save a little time, so I want to help you have one less thing to worry about and want to provide you with some skincare pointers that I use for my own family. Cover Up Summertime means shorts and tank tops and extra skin, right? False, not if you want to protect your skin, that is. Exposing too much skin could put you in harm’s way with dangerous UV rays that can penetrate the skin to not only put you and your … [Read more...]

My Anti-Aging Hair Care Routine with Women’s Lilyhair®

A few years back I noticed something was going on with my hair. You could see through it. My hair stylist was concerned. I was frustrated. My fine hair wasn't going to go back to being thick with just a new 'do either. The truth? I'm getting older. I needed a foolproof anti-aging hair care routine fast. That's where Lilyhair® Foam comes into play.  Because let's face it.  Hair thinning isn't uncommon. I've talked about it with my girlfriends before. Did you know that up to 42% of women will notice some hair loss in their lifetime and many of them will see hair thinning after age 30.  That is totally me. For me that means starting the day with a dose of Women’s ROGAINE® Foam after shampooing with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner.  I can add it without worrying about my hair … [Read more...]

7 Simple And Effective Methods To Remove Wrinkles Around Your Eyes

*This is a guest post. No compensation was received.    by victoriamason  Are you interested in simple and effective methods to remove wrinkles from around your eyes?   If your answer to either of these two questions is yes, then you should keep on reading this article. In the paragraphs that follow, you will find some simple and effective methods for wrinkle removal. The important thing is that you choose solutions that work not only to repair the skin but also to prevent further damage. And, remember, you need to protect yourself against sun damage. Otherwise, more wrinkles are going to appear. #1 Pineapple juice The active substance in pineapple is bromelain, being recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties. If you want to make the wrinkles around the eyes … [Read more...]

Daytripping at National Harbor

Sometimes you just need to get away, even if it is just for a day.  My day to day life of working on the blog, with H and our real estate business, taking care of three kids and all that those kiddos entails is no easy feat.  Throw in the fact that sometimes I need to sleep, eat and maybe get a little exercise in so I can handle all those above mentioned things and I can be one burned out woman.  I needed an escape from the norm.  I needed to soak in some sights, good food, and a bit of relaxation. There was only one place to go. Source: Victoria Mason The National Harbor and the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center.  Located on the Potomac River it is a gorgeous mix of restaurants, shops, outdoor spaces to play, dream and while away the day.  If you are local you know … [Read more...]

Top DIY Skincare Masks to Zap Dryness and Renew Your Skin

Having dry skin is never fun. Not only does it cause your foundation to look lumpy and unpolished, but it can lead to skin that appears old and dull. Luckily, there are some easy DIY recipes you can do at home to make your skin radiant and smooth all spring and summer long. Source: Shutterstock Soften with Milk Milk contains lactic acid which is a great exfoliator for your skin, helping to slough away dead skin cells so that your skin is softer and renewed. This is why lactic acid is such an important ingredient in products like skin brightening creams. You can make your own lactic acid face mask with a quarter cup of powdered milk and some water so that you create a thick, creamy consistency. Apply it to your face and leave it on until it has dried, then wash it off with warm … [Read more...]

Skincando Eco-Facial

Earlier this year I announced that one of my goals was to get one facial a month.  It would allow me time to relax but also start treating my skin better in a way that shows a real difference when done repeatedly over time.  The first place I stopped was Skincando at the Emerald Door Spa to get an Eco-Facial with Sara, which was recommended by my friend, Jessica. Eco-Facial Organic Rose Steam, Triple Cleansing, Pumpkin Enzyme Peel, Ultrasonic Dermabrasion, Extractions, Massage, Treatment Mask, Serum, Miracle Cream I have never been so happy with the results of a facial in my life.  I normally only get one or two facials a year this one at the Emerald Door Spa was quite far from my home, was worth every mile in DC traffic.  I would consider going back again without question because Sara … [Read more...]