At my husband's recent birthday dinner, I was introduced to something new...and VERY nice, plum wine. Also called Ume, plum wine is not made from traditional grapes. Instead, its made with plums and shochu, Japanese clear liquor. Its really popular in Japan and Korea, and is also produced in China. The taste is VERY smooth and sweet and is great with dinner. If you like the "buzz" of alcohol, but maybe not the taste, this is something to try. It tastes like REALLY good juice and compliments Japanese food extremely well. Domo Arigato, Elsa I love this stuff ;)!
I also tried sushi for the first time, and it was really good too!!! You should start out with the California Rolls if you've never tried before, that's what a lot of seasoned sushi vets recommend ;). I personally love Salmon, it has such a fresh taste! LOVE
Although, they come into your life and cut down the time and $$$$ you have to spend on your daily beauty regimen, babies open a door to a whole new world of marvelous health and beauty products. As a mother, and a new mom especially, its important to still take good care of yourself. Its imperative to your happiness with self and your post-baby appearance, the bond you'll build with your baby, and preserving your overall youth and vitality. Some of the very same things you purchase for your little one double and even triple as great beauty buys for you. Here are some of my favorites...take a look
Vaseline: This tried and true favorite has been around for years, and for good reason. Some of the best protection you'll get for chapped skin, especially during fall and winter, will come from Vaseline which is also an amazing exfoliator of sorts. There are scrubs out there that remind us to resurface the skin and face, but 9 times out of 10 women forget to exfoliate one very important area of skin-the lips. This is where Vaseline shines ;). Rubbing it on your lips and letting it work for about fifteen minutes, then gently brushing with.... what else?, an infant toothbrush, will resurface them and keep them soft. Following with a layer of honey for about 15 minutes will soften and pinken them even more. You can try the process over and over depending on how many cells you need to slough off, but remember to be gentle with your lips. The skin is VERY delicate
Aquaphor: Of the same family as Vaseline, but a tad more expensive and 150% more moisturizing, Aquaphor has become a favorite of some runway models. Why? This thick emollient, specifically formulated for thirsty skin, is VERY hydrating. Applying in place of body butter after exfloiating your skin, and wrapping yourself in Saran Wrap locks in the moisture and forces it deep into your skin. Making sure your skin is still a little damp before applying it will ensure the greatest moisture concentration.
A Baby Brush: While we're on the topic of exfoliation, don't forget to pick up an infant brush for yourself, when you're considering grooming your babies' locks. Rubbing it over dry skin before jumping in the shower loosens the flaky top layer of epidermis and allows your scrub to work even better ;)!
Baby Oil Gel: For instant glow in your evening gown or lingerie, Johnson's Baby Oil gel is the go-to. A thin layer of this transparent gem adds quick shine to your skin. A little goes a long way, so you don't need too much, and the gel formula makes it a lot less messy than traditional oil.
Q-tips: Because nothing defines the lower lid of your smokey eye better than a fresh q-tip ;)! These are some of the best makeup applicators out there.When you need to line or define with precision, a q-tip is the perfect size and shape; especially the Safe-T-Tips that have a pointed tip ;)! Use them with dry makeup media like shadows, pigments and powders so you don't have cotton threads strewn about your face. If you need to use it with a liquid or cream based part of your makeup (like in the application of concealer) wet the q-tip, soak up the excess water and smooth the cotton tip by rolling it in a clean, fresh piece of tissue and then apply. This also works if you want a more intense color from your shadow. Wet the Q-tip, twist, dip it in the shadow and then apply the richer color ;).
Baby Wipes: My friends and I have found out that these are some the BEST stainlifters in the world. Soaking up a fresh makeup stain with a baby wipe always works. They are also great makeup removers. Since they're formulated for a baby, they're gentle enough for use on your face, and they usually remove eyeshadow in one or two swipes. As always, be careful when manipulating the skin around your eyes, its very delicate and ages faster when pulled and tugged regularly ;).
Babies are such a blessing....definitely in more ways than one. It may be hard to keep up with your pre-baby health and beauty regimen, but if you're resourceful and utilize the things your baby has introduced into your life, you can devise a new post-baby one ;). REMEMBER not to FORGET to make time for yourself; you deserve it now more than ever!!! LOVE
Baby products are especially good because their light scent doesn't conflict with your perfume and their hypoallergenic composition is healthy for your skin...Cetaphil is one of the leading sensitive-skin baby lines that offers tons of soaps and moisturizers for mother and baby. Visit this link for some goodies for both http://www.cetaphil.com/ LOVE
In one of my earliest blogs, Recession Beauty, I mentioned that body polishes and scrubs are my favorite spa therapy. If you've never had one, or performed one on yourself, what it is is basically an exfoliation process with a wet scrub usually made from a raw salt or sugar base that sloughs of dull dead skin cells and unearths the new, glowing skin beneath. Its usually followed by a very hydrating cream that deeply moisturizes the new skin. The process keeps your skin very soft and promotes circulation to give you an instant glow. There are tons of scrubs and body butters out there that you can purchase and use at home, but some are better than others. Some even provide professional quality results, and I found two in particular. In an effort to conserve time I paid my favorite NYC Spa, HAVEN, a visit to purchase some items I could use at home instead...and I'm so glad I did ;)
Pure Fiji Coconut Sugar Rub $41 : This is the BEST sugar scrub I have ever tried!!! It comes with a scoop so that you don't waste too much, and a little bit goes a LONG way. When I read the bottle and it said 15 uses, I immediately shrugged that off; I usually get three at most out of a jar this size. The scent is very light and its very moisturizing, but like almost any sugar scrub, its VERY messy...so confine yourself to the shower. If you have the time...apply it and wrap yourself in Saran Wrap for 20 mins. ;). This really works!!! Rinse it off with warm water and follow with...
Biotone Body Butter in Milk & Honey $36: Also a small jar that promises a lot of uses. Rub this all over your skin once you've patted dry and you'll feel your skin instantly turn into velvet. This body butter is amazing. It also has a very light scent that won't over power or conflict with your perfume. You can use it everyday!
These beauty finds are little on the pricey side, but they are well worth it. With the number of uses and the professional results you'll get, they pay for themselves over and over and over ;). Twice a week is a good number of times to exfoliate your skin. You'll be amazed at just how more beautiful your skin can be! LOVE
You don't necessarily have to go directly to a spa to purchase these items. You can actually find them on the Internet for a little cheaper. Visit these links to the sugar scrub and body cream respectively and indulge yourself.
If you're in need of getting out & being pampered, definitely check out Haven Spa in NYC. The environment is very clean and relaxing and for an NYC spa the prices are very reasonable. Visit this link to check it out http://www.havensoho.com/
Your skin actually does glow!!! What you eat, how much you exercise and how you take care of your skin all plays a role in its radiance. Look for my upcoming blog on 10 things you can do to make your Skin Shine....LOVE
If you haven't watched the two previous presidential debates, tonight is definitely the night to tune in! There's a lot up for discussion, e g. the economy, Obama's connection with former radical Bill Ayers, and John McCain's "new" plan to solve the economic crises sweeping the US. Because this isn't a town hall format, and because both candidates will be touching on sore subjects, political fireworks are sure to fly. Both candidates, John McCain especially since he trails Obama in the polls by a significant margin, need to use this final opportunity to address the American public with answers that are gonna secure votes. With the election only 20 days away, and the economy bouncing all over the place, tonight is definitely the night for both these candidates to stand and deliver. Judging by the past two debates, Obama's sure to win this one, but lets hope he stays composed and focused. An erratic John McCain will have to bring his A game tonight, but honestly at this point is that even enough?
The debate starts tonight at 9pm, and the best place to watch it if you can is CNN. They don't call these guys the best political team on television for no reason. Great recap, commentary, and discussion on the debate by seasoned professionals!!! Make sure you check it out! LOVE
In my quest to find the full length video, I stumbled upon this clip from an aerobics video I used to do back in highschool. The tape (yes tape ;) used to belong to my mom, and it was first released in 1984. I used to play it so much that it popped;I tossed it in the trash and never looked back. With the emergence of yoga and just-everday-lifestyle exercise, I never thought about that vintage Jane Fonda Workout until recently. With the eighties craze still going strong and with leggings now as iconic as a pair of blue jeans, a new interest has spawned in Jane Fondas "New" workout...
Why I love it: The routine is very fast paced and really gets you going. Of course the 80's music is a little cheezy, but overall the workout is fun. There's a beginners and an advanced routine, but trust me the beginners routine is intense in itself. Exercise in the 80's was all about accenting the waist, and the ab and waist work in this video are great. Alot of intense stretches and cardio work to lengthen and tone to your body. This allows you to still keep your feminine shape without bulking up too much. The steps are easy to learn, and after a few routines you'll know them like the back of your hand.
Cardio works too fold...it burns fat, but it also opens up your appetite. Take advantage of this;). If you want to burn some weight off, this routine will def aide in that area-its very fast paced. If your problem is gaining weight, like me, this routine really gets you going, opens your tummy and makes you hungry. Of course remember to follow your workout routine wth a healthy bite either way ;). Unfortunately, this video can only be found on VHS, so if you still have a VCR, you're in luck ;). Other's like it like Jane Fonda's Complete Workout, and Jane Fonda: Complete Personal Trainer Series can be found on DVD. I trust what I know, and the New Workout worked then and it still works now! So until the tape pops again this is my workout of choice!!! I invite you to try it!!! LOVE
Don't forget your leggings for aerobics and beyond!!! American Apparel has the best ones hands down. Visit this link to tons of different styles you can incorporate into your workout routine or you can use to display your perfectly toned legs!!! LOVE
The Little Black Dress of my Fall Music Collection
Music is a big part of who I am, and there's no denying it...as the seasons change, so does my taste in music. By the time the October air is creeping through my window I'm reaching for darker, more sensual lyrics, music that calms and soothes me, music that inspires me...mood music. One thing that never changes autumn season after autumn season is my craving for three albums in particular. I can't get through the cold months without them...they have a different affect on me year in, year out...they all have tracks to inspire and invoke to calm and to arouse ;)... I invite you to take a listen
Coldplay: A Rush of Blood to the Head: From start to finish this album has a little of everything. EVERY single track is good!!! Most of all, I love it because of the incredible combination of lyrics & production. This band definitely has a way with words and the instrument work is phenomenal. An air of cool rock & roll glam permeates throughout this album and inspires through the speakers. Track #7 Green Eyes is one of the most beautiful love songs (the guitar is amazing), #3God Put a Smile Upon your Face always gets me amped before going out on the town, and #11 Amsterdam is always great on a Sunday afternoon ;) .
Mary J Blige:My Life: R & B is another one of my fall fav's as far as musical genres go. I love soulful music you can feel, and this is Mary at her realest. I love the raw lyrics and the intenseness of the sound. Track after track these songs deliver. Besides classics like I'm Going Down and Mary Jane (All Night Long), the vintage R&B sound of track #5 I'm the Only Woman and #15 Mary's Joint is gritty and sexy. Even the interludes on this album are hot!
Sade: The Best of Sade: This album is the quintessential mood maker. Sade's voice is so unbelievably entrancing. There's a couple upbeat classics like Paradise, and Sweetest Taboo, but the real gems are in tracks 11 and beyond. These are laced together with a very sensual exotic sound and lyrics that are hauntingly sexy. My fav's, #12 Like a Tattoo and #15 Cherish the Day; they just don't make songs this sexy anymore ;(.
Music is the greatest mood maker there is...set the tone for your fall and winter days and nights with some music you can't live without; music that inspires you or puts you in a mood only it can! I surely can't live without these!!! LOVE
One of my favorite actresses, Sharon Stone in one of her best looks, her husband's white Gap shirt ;)
Take a trip down movie memory lane with me. Think back to the height of romantic comedy, circa 2001, to a movie called Someone Like You. That iconic scene where Ellen Barkin saunters in donning a cerulean blue man's oxford shirt, much to the chagrin of "old cow" Ashley Judd, is definitely a memorable one. What happens between Barkin & Judd is one thing...for now, lets talk about the shirt ;)... How electric she looked in her man's shirt; there's an innate sex appeal in the actual thing... Sharon Stone never looked better than she did at the 1998 Oscars in her then husband's white oxford shirt and Vera Wang wrap skirt. There's no doubt about it, menswear is very sexy, and with testosterone inspired digs dominating fashion again, you may be invading your love's closet for some pieces you can feminize ;)
The button up shirt:With high waisted skirts and super cinching belts paired with dramatic blouses and billowing silhouttes of moment, incorporating your man's button up into your look really works now. Take advantage of the longer sleeves, and the fuller bodice...use things like brooches to tailor and add femininity to an ordinary shirt. Take advantage of you and your hubby's differences in size. If your man's clothes fit really loosely, rolled sleeves and a nice belt can look great as a shirt dress or a thin blazer over a cocktail dress.
The t-shirt: This is probably the most versatile piece your man has to offer. If your man's clothes are dramatically bigger, a t-shirt looks very sexy paired with a belt, a leather jacket and heels. If you guys are closer in size, wear his shirt in place of yours but feminize the feel of it by pairing it with a vest, leggings or a belt.
Sweaters and Sweatshirts: Sweaters like t-shirts can always double as a dress when belted. But, probably my favorite literal menswear piece is hands down the zippered hoodie. When you think of a hoodie you probably don't think ultra-feminine fashion, but its a great piece that can look very fashion forward. In cableknits and fabrics like wool, and tones like browns and henleys, a zippered hoodie makes great "boho chic" outerwear. It works belted or unbelted depending on the look you're going for
Hats, Belts, and other stuff: Fedoras, belts, and scarves, are all things that can always be used to accessorize a menswear look. Ties are especially versatile.
Belts, belts, belts!!!! I must have mentioned them at least 10 times during this post alone, and they're the key to making your literal menswear look femme and chic. Of course, there's grand sex appeal in baring a shoulder in a shapeless but sexy male dig a la Ellen Barkin, but for now with the falling temps, and the return of the feminine silhoutte don't forget your belt! Take good care of all the jewels you borrow and remember not to manipulate your man's clothes too much ;). They still belong to him no matter how GREAT they look on you!!! LOVE
What is the Old Cow? Check outSomeone Like You if you don't already know. This is a great romantic comedy with GOOD actors! LOVE
Sooooo....as u guys can see I haven't blogged in a while. October is a very busy month for me!!! But, have no fear, I'll be back soon.....blogging my heart out ;). With all things I've been into lately, look for some very interesting posts in the next week or so!!! LOVE
When it comes to fruit, Grapefruit is one of the greats ;). Sure, you may be discouraged by the tart bitter taste, but when you consider all the great things a Ruby-Red can offer, you just might start consuming these gems on a regular basis...
A natural fat burner- Doctors are looking into the possibility that grapefruit is a direct promoter of weight loss. Eating half a grapefruit before a meal can actually help with burning fat if you're dieting or trying to maintain your weight.
A GREAT source of vitamin C- With the onslaught of cold season at the start of fall, consuming fresh grapefruit or its juice can help combat those annoying germs. The abundant Vitamin C concentration in grapefruit can weaken the severity of cold symptoms, and other diseases as well. Because Vitamin C combats plaque, an artery clogger, eating grapefruit on a regular basis also lowers your risk for heart disease and promotes cardiovascular health.
A great antioxidant- Like tomatoes, Ruby Red grapefruits are rich in lycopene, a natural antioxidant. This combats free radicals that can damage/age your skin and tumor growth/activity. Encourage your hubby-love to try grapefruit too ;). Studies show men who consume the fruit on a regular basis are less likely to develop diseases such as prostate cancer.
Grapefruit does other great things like lower cholesterol, prevent kidney stones, and protect against Colon Cancer, but I love it mainly because it keeps me going through the colder months. I discovered it when I was pregnant and couldn't take any medication; it really got me through cold season. Its rated as one of the most excellent existing sources of Vitamin C, and trust me it works!!! The taste is definitely a love-it-or-hate-it one. But, when you consider all the good things a slice of grapefruit can do for you, it may be easier to swallow....LOVE!!!
Honestly, do we really have to watch to know who's going to win?
Tonight's Vice Presidential Debate should be a very comedic one. We'll watch "quick" witted Democratic VP candidate Joseph Biden take on "dim" witted Republican VP candidate Sarah Palin. After that messy Katie Couric interview and those ensuing SNL spoofs, I hope the "pitbull" in a skirt brushed up on her speaking skills and her knowledge of the matters at hand. I also hope she's strengthened her stance on foreign policy given her recent misteps in the media. If not, she's in for a rude awakening ;)...No worries for my man Joe Biden, if there's one thing he can handle its taking on opposition and anhiliting them with words. Not-afraid-to-say-what-he-needs-to Biden will definitely be a big threat to the ususally over-confident Sarah Palin who's laid her faults and inadequacies as a candidate on the line for Biden to pick and choose from. The assault begins tonight at 9pm and you cannot miss this...its sure to make you laugh!!!! Good luck Joe, i know you're gonna kill em...
How much do you know about Democratic VP candidate Joe Biden? His story will amaze you! Check out this link to learn more about Obama's right hand, an excellent pick for our country....LOVE http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Biden
If you're a fabulous woman who wants to be true to her style in these recessionary times CONGRATULATIONS!!! You're in the right place. Here you will find stylish, budget friendly ideas for your family, you and your babies' personal style. Recipes, kid friendly "do-it-yourself" projects,wallet friendly romantic ideas, advice and more...
What's going down!!! Currently I'm a devoted housewife and "stay at home" mom of three, Mason 6, Chase 4, and Victoria 1. I also design for Vintage Addiction, a unique accessory house for women and children. I'd LOVE to share all my recession savy tips on beauty, style, relationships, motherhood, and socializing with you! Stay tuned for FABULOUS things to come ;)
Ummmm uMMMM GOOOOOD!!!
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