Got em! Finger Paints Special Effects

Called and asked at Sally's in Burien if they could pull Flecked, Mötley & Asylum for me and they did. The last Treat Yo Self for 2011...maybe. ;) Thanks again Marquita!

Holiday Top to Bottom!

Happy Christmas! This was the look from last night. Didn't get a chance to take more pics because I was running late and then partied. :) Hope you're having a wonderful holiday!

Eyes:
-Stila 'Blanc' palette (champagne color browbone, gold for eyelid)
-Wet'N Wild 'Silent Treatment''Crease' color in deep-v
-E.L.F. Cream Liner in Metallic Olive
-Maybelline The Falsies Volum' Express in Black Drama (2 coats on top lashes, 1 coat on bottom)
-Daiso falsies
-Anastasia Brunette Brow Powder

Lips:
-MAC Spice Lip Liner
-Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Creamsicle

Face:
-MAC StudioFix in C4
-NARS Deep Throat Blush

Tips:
-OPI Jade Is The New Black
-Essie Luxeffects Shine Of The Times

Toes:
-OPI Warm & Fozzie

Adore Me Review

I am pleased to finally post about Adore Me!  I was contacted a couple months ago about a new way to shop for lingerie and got to experience Adore Me for myself.  Shipping was fast!  I received my set within 3 days, coming from the East coast via USPS.  Not shown was the outer packaging which was a thick plastic envelope.  Unfortunately, my giftbox was crumpled when it arrived, but the contents was fine.  I would suggest mailing in a cardboard box to prevent from being smashed and it would make the presentation much nicer, especially if I was giving this as a gift. 

I chose the 'Lillian' set which included a beautiful bra and boyshort style panty.  I am partial to black undergarments.  #1 because I wear dark colors A LOT and #2 black is sexy!  I love it!  This set stood out to me, especially with the hot lace boyshort panty.  I normally wear a wireless bra on the daily, so wearing one with an underwire was a bit uncomfortable at first. I think that with more wear, the bra will fit better. The panty fits right and looks awesome on!

I love how I was able to get the bra in my size and also the panty in my size!  Having a larger cup size, does not always equate to having a large bottom size.  Some sets have a matching panty, but in my case they are too big and unusable, what a waste!  Not with Adore Me, you have the choice to choose what suits you. 

From what I have seen, the sizes are from 34B-36D with panty sizes in small, medium and large.  Maybe in the next year, they can provide larger sizes for different body types.  I know it can be difficult to find foundations and undergarments for those who are larger and it may not be possible to find the same selections in those sizes. 

An interesting offer is you can even let your lover decide what to choose for the month.  Sounds funny, but I think its great!  Add some spice to your intimate life and let it be a surprise what they would want to see on you.

 

From the Adore Me website:

Venture back to warm summer picnics with this crochet-inspired creation of delicate black lace.

"The perfect little option for a light and comfortable set to wear on hot and humid days or deep in the winter when you wish to relive your favorite summer moments." - Stephanie

This set has a nice, low neckline with the demi-cup shape which makes it the perfect option for a square neckline or for an outfit where you want to get an extra little lift to make a stunning impression.

~ Lace 3-part demi cup over light lining

~ Completely adjustable straps
~ Lace two-pronged back band with supportive side boning
~ Full lace mid-rise boyshort
~ 93% Nylon/7% Spandex
~ ABS Initmates products

Pros:
-$39.95 for a beautiful set.
-Fast shipping!
-Big selection & you can choose your size. I wear a 36C and a small-medium panty. No getting stuck with a big panty!
-You can choose to purchase or not, no commitment!

Cons:
-The box the item was shipped in gets smashed during transit.
Would I recommend this program?
YES!  I love how I am able to make the choice to purchase or not.  I don't have to worry about skipping on time and if I don't, I'll get charged.  I have done that a few times with some other programs.  :\  That is tough, especially if I'm on a budget.  I'm also loving the choices I can make and if I  like multiple items, I can purchase.  Overall, I'm loving Adore Me and can't wait to make my next purchase!

The items in the above review were provided to me.  Please see my disclosure information.

Black Friday Deal! Bundle Monster 20% Off!

I have been eyeing the 25 piece nail art stamping image plate set on Bundle Monster and just remembered to check if they are having a Black Friday sale right now. Lucky me! 20% off with coupon code blkfriday! Plus free shipping.

Just launched! Adore Me

Hello Lovely Readers!

Just a quick annoncement - Adore Me has just launched!  Last month I wrote about a new way to shop for lingerie and have been anticipating when this would be available.  Hurry over and sign up today!

NOTW: Zebra!

Just a quick mobile post! Spent Saturday night in and did the nails. :) Decided to do something fun and was inspired by Sammy's nails in Day 7: Black and White Nails post. 

Products used:
Base - Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in White Out
Stamp - Pure Ice Black Rage
Konad Plate M57

Dark Little Edition To The Tatcha Family

Vicky, Nadia and Brad at Tatcha were kind to send me the newest edition to the family, Evening Aburatorigami.  Now in a clutch friendly size, you can bring Tatcha with you in your going out handbag, wallet or your pocket.

From the Tatacha website:
Tatcha’s new Evening AburatorigamI is black to reflect the chic sophistication of New York City and perfectly sized to slip into the sleekest of clutches, for night perfect skin. 

Beautifully packaged!

Although Evening Aburatorigami is smaller, this little sheet can still refresh your entire face, leaving it shine-free without distubring your make up.



Comparision of original Tatcha with Evening

I appreciate how they listened and delivered.  Feedback from make up artists noting that sometimes the sheets can be too large to tote around, they created Evening Aburatorigami.  The Evening Tatcha has charcoal infused in the fibers which increase the absorbency.  These were debuted during NY Fashion Week and were a popular request at the Emmy's.  They are now available for everyone on Tatcha.com or if you're lucky, you can find retail stores that sell Tatcha - listed on the site!

I love the Evening Aburatorigami!  I had them in my vintage silver clutch over the weekend at a wedding and offered to my friends while we were at the reception before hitting up the photo booth.  Have to have a shine-free face!  :)  Thank you again to the Tatcha team for thinking of leileiluvsmakeup!

A new way...

to shop for special underthings and racy skivvies is on it's way!  This is a different post that still pertains to feeling beautiful, but not about make up. :) I am very much a girly girl when it comes to my intimates and was excited to hear about a brand new offering where I could shop online from the comfort of my home. Introducing Adore Me, a personalized shopping experience that offers sexy and elegant intimates. After taking their style quiz, you will be sent a monthly showroom of styles you can choose from for only $39.95. You can choose to purchase one of the styles or skip the month. You even have the choice to purchase all of them for the same price of $39.95 each. Shipping is free, as well as returns. 

I am especially looking forward to beautiful sets like this icy number!

And this seersucker demi!

Where can you get beautiful sets like this in-store for a wonderful price? $40 will sometimes just get you just the bra and not the matching pantie, which can be another almost $20. Truly a steal and I'm excited to finally be able to shop for lingerie that suits my style online. I believe in feeling beautiful, sexy and confident inside and out. No one has to know that I'm feeling great because I have an awesome bra on except me. ;)

Jonathan Silky Dirt

I received a sample of Jonathan Silky Dirt awhile back and finally tried it out this week.  I have been using Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Shaping Cream and love the flexible hold. 

Description

This shine-enhancing grooming cream is made with essential waters of cucumber and rose to nourish hair. Smoothing Shine Blend helps tame frizz, controls flyaways, and provides thermal protection. Antioxidant rich botanical, thermal and UV filters shield hair from damage and prevent color fading. 

Directions

Apply to slightly damp or dry hair to control, define, piece out, and add brilliance. A little goes a long way - emulsify a small amount in your hands before applying. Apply to the hair in sections, focusing on mid-length, through ends.

I was anticipating this would have the same results.  Silky Dirt has a lighter flexible hold and has a soft consistency.  The first thing I noticed was the scent of the product.  While it is a nice smell, it does last throughout the day.  Its almost a candylike scent.  :)  This does hold my hair in place, but its not as strong of a hold as I would like. 

Pros:

• Flexible, light hold
• Smells great
• Does not create visible build up like some gels & mousse do

Cons

• Smell does not dissapate
• Product transfers more easily due to lighter consistency

Would I recommend this product?

• Maybe - the lasting smell is my biggest drawback and the price.

$28 at Ulta

Photo & product description and directions from www.ulta.com

The Beauty in Crossfit

The sweat, the blood, the tears and the awkward faces.  What you couldn't see is result of the band lifting up my shirt as I was doing pull ups.  ;)  Thanks David for taking a picture after I said not to.  Haha! 

NOTW: Golden Ghost Leopard

I am getting a bit better with Konad! I like this look because it's subtle. It reminded me of ghost flames on a car. Very subtle! I will definitely be buying more plates soon! I have been eyeing the plates on Bundle Monster and have seen them on other nail blogger sites.

I have seen a great list of polishes that work with Konad on Sasse's Stamping Stampede (http://sassestampingstampede.wordpress.com/polish/). I think it's great to find alternatives to the Konad Special Polish, because they are pricey! I'm all for finding more affordable options for beauty products.


Products Used:
-Julep Nail Therapy as a base
-Base: 2 coats Essence Irreplaceable
-Stamp: Ulta High Roller
-Konad: M57

First Attempt with Konad

Sunday, fun day!  Last Sunday a group of us gals got together to share a good meal and do each other's nails!  I have been having fun doing some interesting designs on my nails, so why not get a group of us together and do it?  3-day weekend, we don't have work the next day, so bring on the wine and bring on the polish.

Products Used:
-Konad M78 plate - chevron design
-Kiss Nail Artist Paint in SPA12 Black for the stamping
-OPI I Vant To Be A-lone Star for the base
-Wet'nWild The Gold & The Beautiful
-Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

My gf did my ring fingers with some awesome freehand nail art.  Loves!  I'm digging how easy it is to stamp your nails with Konad.  I did purchase a Konad set with M57 plate because there is a zebra design.  I already have a color combination I'm wanting to try.  Do you use Konad?  What are your favorite designs and color combinations?

NOTW: San Tan-tonio + kiss of glitter

Easy and fun to do!  I heart glitter...in cheer I was dubbed glitter girl.  I wanted to do a nude/sand color with glitter gradient tips.  I did one base of OPI San Tan-tonio, then applied a second coat and sprinkled NYX's Purple Glitter Powder.  You have to do each nail individually for the glitter to stick.  I sealed with my fave topcoat Seche Vite.  What's on your tips?

Long hair...wait a sec.

Before

After

I haven't had my hair short since college.  And even then, it wasn't THIS short.  :)  I donated a little over 10" to Locks of Love.  7 Salon offers free Locks of Love haircuts Mondays-Wednesdays.  This includes shampoo, cut, style and they will send your donation in.  Cat did a wonderful job on my hair and I couldn't be more pleased.  She was nervous about me taking so much length off!  She said that this was the most drastic cut she has performed.  Haha!  All for a good cause and I feel so liberated with the new do.  :)

I will say, that even with short hair, I still shed like crazy.  I thought it would subside, but nope!  Well, at least the hair is easier to clean up.  I hella dislike the long strands all over the carpet and bathroom floor.  I would get grossed out, even with MY OWN HAIR!  LOL!

With new hair, comes new hair responsibilities.  I no longer have wash & go hair, but it does not take too much time to style.  Maybe 15 minutes max.  I have to blow dry my hair and the lovely cowlicks down and also use a styling cream.  As recommended by a friend, I picked up Paul Mitchell's Tea Tree Shaping Cream.  Love the smell and the hold!  Holds my hair in place, yet still pliable.

(Image from www.paulmitchell.com)

Pros:

• Flexible hold
• Amazing smell - so clean & fresh
• Does not create visible build up like some gels & mousse do

Cons

• Feel the product when I run my fingers through my hair (that's a given & I think its just my OCD tendencies!)

Would I recommend this product?

• YES!!

$19.50 at Beauty Works

Just wanted to give an update on the BIG change in my life.  Haha!  I still yet have to do a life update and fill you all in on my trip to the Philippines.  :)  Life is good and I am finding my focus.  More to come soon!  xoxox

What a joke - do not purchase from www.decormyeyes.com

I just received this email today:

Dear Rhondalei Gabuat,

On 6/7/2007, you placed an order for some glasses from our website Decormyeyes.comWe never received any feedback from you in connection with your purchase. The owner has run into some legal trouble and needs to prove that his customers are pleased with their purchases. We would very much appreciate if you can write us a sentence or two by email on your experience.I will then post your comment on our testimonials page.The testimonials page is located at http://www.decormyeyes.com/testimonials.asp

Thanks you for your help in advancewww.decormyeyes.com

I purchased some Tom Ford sunglasses that took FORVER to get because they kept selling out.  That was such a load of b.s.  Over the past couple of years, I received a couple of emails asking if I would be willing to sell them back to them - for the same price because another customer was inquiring about the glasses.  First of all, no I am not parting with them and second of all, you are only willing to give me what I paid for them?  How does this benefit me?  Anyway, sorry Stanley at DecorMyEyes, I would never want to do business with you again.

Sorry so long!

Hiatus once again. I have lots of personal updates that I'll share later on. I haven't really bought any prod or have been doing any looks. Bare faced has been the routine as of late. I do have one question for you readers. I have been dealing with lots of clogged pores and blemishes. At 31, really?! So, my skin hates me. I'm thinking my sunscreen is the culprit. I need something sweat/water/rub-proof that's non-comedogenic. Help! I spend quite a bit if time outdoors running and I think that's what's making my skin hate me. :( Ugly nose, forehead and chin. Bah! Any recoms are appreciated!

HANA Air Professional Hair Dryer

Recently, I was given the opportunity to review HANA Air's Professional Hair Dryer from Misikko. 

John reached out to me via email and kindly sent the dryer along with some other goodies.  Thanks John!

  

Specifications from the Misikko website HANA air Professional Hair Dryer:

• Adjustable Heat 2 Fan Speeds
• 3 Heat Settings
• Plus Cold Shot
• Ceramic Heater Most Advanced Far Infrared Ionic Heat
• Tourmaline, Titanium Oxide & Silver Infused Pure Tourmaline Crystals Add Antibacterial Ions and Shine
• Attachments Concentrator
• Warranty 2 Years 

Quick facts
-Design Italian
-Wattage Proprietary Design Allows for Equivalent Operation of 2300 Watts
-Low EMF Environmentally Safe
-Motor Life Longest in Industry
-Cord Type 12' Extra Long, ALCI safety plug

The design is sleek and set up of functions works seamlessly.  I prefer to have the heat setting on II and the speed on I.  My hair is thick and coarse and can take some time to dry.  My current hair dryer was not cutting it.  It would take me 10+ minutes to dry my hair and even then, I would still have some damp areas like at the nape of my neck.  With the HANA air, my hair was dry in about 4 minutes.  4 minutes!  Unheard of!  I did actually time myself drying my hair.  Haha!  Not only did it dry my hair fast, it did not make my hair frizzy.  I believe that the low heat combined with high speed of cool air, you are able to achieve smooth, blown out locks.  My hair is ready to go!  With my old dryer, I would have to either straighten or curl my hair afterwards because it would be frizzy after drying.  What a waste of time!  After a week of use, I can definitely say that HANA Air Professional Hair Dryer is the best I have used and love it! 

Pros:

• Dries hair fast!
• Variable settings
• Does not make hair frizzy post dry

Cons:

• Weight (if you have a lot of hair to dry, it can be heavy to hold for a prolonged period of time)

Would I recommend this product?  YES! 

A good hair dryer is definitely an investment you should make.  What you pay for is what you get.  My previous hair dryers were affordable, but the results were not great.  If you can invest in an excellent hair dryer, be sure to check out Misikko for their assortment of hair tools, hair products and other beauty items.  They carry CHI, HANA and T3 to name a few brands of hair tools.  Also, you will receive free shipping with your order over $50 and your order ships the same day.  I will definitely be ordering from Misikko soon - I want to try HANA Shine Shield Thermal Protectant and Macadamia Nourishing Leave-In Cream. 

Best hair dryer - http://misikko.com/professional-hair-dryers.html

OPI Axxium vs CND Shellac

Finally made the decision to take off my acrylics and go for natural manicures again. One of the downfall of not having overlay, is that my natural nails are thin and weak. Prone to peeling and rips, not fun overall. Enter the gel polish manicure. While I still need to be somewhat mindful of what I'm doing with my fingernails, I have some added strength and resiliency as my natural nail bed grows back to normal. Currently, still thin, but halfway there and only about 3 more months until the rough appearance is completely gone.

CND's Shellac in Iced Cappucino

Not the best choice in color for the state that my nails were in. Since this was a pearl finish, it showed every divot and uneven nick in my nailbed.

OPI Axxium in Black Cherry Chutney

This was my second time around with Axxium. My first go round was very light with Bubblebath and DS Radiance. You couldn't really see any color, hence no photo.


The great thing about gel polish is that the finish really stays perfect. You can go about what you need to do right after your manicure without having to worry about getting impressions or nicking the finish. Some say their nails remain perfect for 2 weeks. In my experience, it can "last" for 2 weeks, but I do notice some wear around the new growth and the edges can lift.


Overall, I love having a gel polish manicure. I really make use of my hands when cooking and cleaning - what are rubber gloves? Only when handling harsh chemicals of course, but I love washing dishes w/o gloves. My recommendation would be to get an OPI Axxium manicure. Axxium went on thinner and smoother and seemed to do well with my nails. Shellac was a bit thick and I noticed more lifting on the edge of my nails than Axxium. I am thinking of investing in my own Axxium products to do at-home mani & pedis.


Pros
-Long lasting, shiny manicure
-Dry time is only when being cured under UV lamp
-Adds strength to your natural nails
-Can be used with both natural and enhanced nails
-Shellac: bottle brush application
-Axxium: extensive color collection


Cons
-Pricier than regular manicure ($25 was average cost)
-Can lift and peel
-Removal process can be long
-Shellac: limited color selection, seemed a bit thicker in application
-Axxium: gel pot application can be messy, colors may not seem as rich with just 2 coats & a 3rd coat may be too thick

Slightly...

annoyed. I haven't been blogging lately because the mo-bloggin' lite Blogger app is now defunct. Boo! That's how I did most of my posts, but now it looks like I'll have to carve out time to take pics, upload etc. etc. Oh good ole fashion bloggin'. How has everyone been? New year, new goals, new life. I still believe that even #s are best, but 2010 was interesting and am glad to see that over and done with. But, some old habits die hard and I find myself back in some of the same scenarios I've dealt with before. Oh well, figure it out and move along.

As of lately:

-make up: has been minimal to none, with the exception of those evenings where I'm going out. Nothing spectacular and blog worthy in my eyes, but I'll figure something to report.

-nails did: I removed the overlays and now will be keeping them natural and polished. I have tried CND's Shellac and OPI's Axxium. Reviews on them soon.

-living situation: back at home in the mean time. Things have been great and its nice to have homecooked food all the time! I do miss my privacy...I swear things move in my room when I'm not at home. *cough*mommy*cough*

-love life: what love life? I have been trying to "date," but those encounters have been fruitless. It will happen when it happens.

c'est la vie.