I Dare To Compare

POPSUGAR Must Have Box Discount

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Sat, 18 Aug 2012 01:06:00 +0000

I just ordered my first POPSUGAR Must Haves box and can't wait to receive it.

I wasn't going to try, but after Facebook posted a $10 coupon, I knew I had to order! I should try at least one, right? =)

Every month, the POPSUGAR editorial staff curate an exciting box full of fun products from fashion, beauty, home decor, fitness, and more.

To save $10 on your first box, enter FB10 at checkout.

http://musthave.popsugar.com

Are You an Angel for Talia?

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 18:32:00 +0000

Join me to help raise money for the strong and beautiful Talia Castellano!

Talia is an amazing 12-year old makeup artist diagnosed with stage 4 Neuroblastoma and recently just developed pre-leukemia.
https://www.facebook.com/angelsfortalia

Her love of makeup brightens my day. She creates stunning YouTube tutorials and is a master with a brush. She doesn't like to wear wigs, and instead uses makeup as her wig.

Although I don't personally know Talia, she has captured my heart. Watching her videos and seeing the sunshine on her face makes me smile, but hearing about her cancer updates really breaks my heart in two. That is why I have decided to start my own personal fundraiser for Talia.

From August 13, 2012 through August 26, 2012, every purchase made on my mark eBoutique will help fund Talia's battle. All of my proceeds during these 2 weeks will go directly to Talia and her mother.

You can help by:

Making a purchase at my mark store. Visit the party/fundrasier section and click "Shop my Party." Your purchase of mark. beauty and fashion will help, and hopefully together we'll be able to ease the financial burden just a bit.
Sharing this post with your friends. Even if you can't give, you can Facebook, twitter or re-blog this post. Let's share so the whole world knows of Talia.

lindasellsmark.com/parties/MPTALIA

If you would like to donate directly to Talia's mother, visit giveforward.com/anangelfordesiree

LE TOTE - the Netflix of Fashion

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 18:14:00 +0000

Browsing the web today I found this really interesting article on a new monthly fashion subscription program VentureBeat.com calls the Netflix of fashion clothing.

For $49 per month, users fill out a style profile and LE TOTE's stylists send you 3 pieces of designer-quality apparel and 2 accessories. When you're done with them, send them back and you'll receive another tote of fab fashion.

You can send the totes back as often as you want and are able to make special requests, such as only tops or skirts. The clothing is laundered and inspected after each return, so you'll always get a clean, perfect outfit.

Image from letote.com

The overall concept sounds great - I can get a new outfit every weekend if I wanted to and I can try something I might have passed on at the store.

But there are still a few questions on my mind:

Are plus sizes available?
Do customers have to pay for shipping or return shipping?
What if I receive an outfit that I cannot part with and must keep? How much extra will that cost?

Still, I'm excited to try this service and can't wait for the launch.

For more information, visit letote.com

Ashley Greene’s Faux Bob by Ted Gibson

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 05:27:00 +0000

Ted Gibson is amazing at what he does. Watching him cut, color and design really makes me want to enroll in cosmetology school. Then I remember I don't like hair - but I wish I did!

I always thought the faux bob look was something I might be able to pull off. Ashley Greene looks uber-cute in this hairstyle and kind of reminds me of Robin Scherbatsky. During my next haircut I'll ask the stylist for tips for my face shape.

Directly from tedgibsonbeauty.com:

"Doesn’t it look like Ashley Greene cut her hair for this gorgeous Mark Cosmetics cover? Well, she didn’t –it’s a faux bob! I have been working with Ashley for over 4 years for everything from magazine covers, press events and movie junkets to movie premieres. I have given her bangs, layers and bobs and have changed her color from light to dark and no matter what style I create, everything looks amazing on her!

For this look I started by creating texture in her hair with Build It Blow Drying spray on damp hair. I twisted her hair around my fingers while blow drying to add volume and movement. When dry I used tame it shine lotion in her hair to give it shine and gloss. I then put her hair in a side part and pulled part of her hair back into a low ponytail. Next I twisted and folded it under to create the faux bob and finished with beautiful hold hairspray to hold the style. What do you think, Gibson Girls? It’s a nice style to try out in this summer heat, right?

Remember, Beauty Is Individual."

This magalog won't be released for several months, but feel free to visit lindasellsmark.com to stay up-to-date on the latest products and specials.

mark. Lip Color Crayon Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 06:43:00 +0000

Make It Rich Lip Color Crayon

Glide this super smooth pencil over lips for intense,

full-coverage color that lasts for hours without bleeding.

$11

Coming to meetmarkbeauty.com/shop 8/10/12.

photo credit: Jennifer Jones

My Favorite Local Yogurt Spot

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 20:41:00 +0000

Summer time means I get addicted to fro-yo. Love the treat, and although I'm wedding dieting, I still need sugar in my life. =)

My new favorite spot for frozen yogurt here in the Palm Springs area is Beach House Frozen Yogurt in Palm Desert. The Mr. and I fell in love with this place yesterday and he's pushing to go back today! The yogurt is delicious and the toppings are plenty.

Can I just say how much I love this sign? "Sanitize your hands" is first on the list - and yes - I'm a big hand sanitizer and hate other people's germs.

I love how clean this shop is. It has a nice, breezy beach house theme and the topping counters look like they get cleaned regularly, unlike other yogurt shops I won't care to mention.

What's my next fro-yo combo? Cake batter with fresh strawberries and Oreo cookie pieces? How about mango sorbet with cherries and blueberries? Mmmm... it all sounds so good.

Good Eats in the Bay Area

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 23:23:00 +0000

Boy, did I get fat! After 3 days of eating like I wasn't prepping for my wedding, I had to stop to make sure I stayed on my wedding diet. But it was delicious!

We first picked up some tasty bundt cakes from Nothing Bundt Cakes in Emeryville. I am not a bundt cake person, but these little treats (and one big one) were so delicious! They were very moist and soft, and the frosting was sugary enough, but not overboard sweet.

They mentioned opening a new location here in the desert, which makes me annoyingly excited. I'll keep coming back for more!

The next day we stopped at Alameda Marketplace in Alameda, CA. Beanery Coffee Co makes some amazing smoothies. I ordered a simple strawberry-banana smoothie expecting it to taste like every other smoothie out there. I was wrong. It wasn't thick or plain, and had a delectable strawberry taste that surpassed my expectations. I loooove strawberries.

In the same marketplace was Feel Good Bakery. I had to stop because of the name itself! I ordered several cupcakes and chocolate macarons. Although I didn't get to taste the cupcakes, the choco macarons were so much better than my French bakery down the street. They were a little thicker than standard macarons and more chewy, but that's what I loved about them.

[Side note - the best macarons I have tasted so far are from 'Lette Macarons in LA. Mmmm... I could go for some right now.]

Now to get back to my wedding diet. I'm not doing so well and it's only 3 months away. Ack, help!

What's Inside: myglam & Birchbox

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 22:26:00 +0000

So I've purchased several different beauty boxes in the past months, and I have mixed feelings on everything! I'm trying to look at it as a customer, and for the most part I'm like "ehhhh" with an occasional "ooooh."

I've purchased myglam since January, and June is the only month I have ever liked. All my other boxes have been disappointing, but I understand that's the game. Some months will be great, others will not be. What I don't know is why I stuck around so long! Subscription billing is smart for businesses, but sucks for the consumer. Maybe I'll cancel this month.

I've only purchased 2 months from Birchbox, so I'll give it another month before I cancel. I was quite pleased this month.

June myglam

Contents: Living Proof Nourishing Styling Cream sample, Philosophy Take a Deep Breath gel cream moisturizer sample (coincidentally, Philosophy sent me a sample for signing up through Facebook), Marbella Permanent Eyeliner Pen, Nyx Round Lipstick

I don't have that specific lipstick color yet, so I was pleased. I'm also excited to try the Philosophy sample, and I've almost used up the Living Proof sample - that stuff rocks. As for the Marbella Eyeliner Pen, I haven't used it on my eyes yet, but I did try it on the back of my hand and after it dried, I was able to smear it without issue, but I'm not going to knock it until I try it on my eyes - on my day off.

June Birchbox

Contents: Borghese Eye Compress sample, TheBalm Staniac sample, Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint sample, Scalisi Skincare Anti-Aging Moisturizer sample, some scent from Birchbox man, and Cynthia Rowley Band-Aids

I'm not big on stains, but I'll give it a try. I love the Band-Aids and will probably get to the moisturizer this week. Overall I was happy with the products this month... which was a big step up from my May Birchbox:

A Look Back: Carmindy's tips for summer beauty

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 11 Jun 2012 23:38:00 +0000

I can't believe it's been 2 years since Carmindy was nice enough to take time out of her schedule and answer my questions on desert summer weather.

Since we're smack dack in summer and my city is going to be a chilly 108 degrees tomorrow, I thought I'd repost the article and review Carmindy's summer beauty tips. Another few weeks before my desert home heats up to 118! Palm Springs... you're great, but your summers are brutal!

..........................................................................................

Renowned makeup artist Carmindy brings a touch of gold to her inspiring looks. Mainly known for her role on TLC's What Not To Wear, Carmindy has worked with a number of top magazines, including InStyle, Elle, Marie Claire, and Cosmopolitan.

Beauty can be overwhelming, but Carmindy makes it look so easy. And with summer ~~fast approaching~~ here, it can be difficult to figure out exactly what to wear and how to wear it.

Here, Carmindy graciously shares with me her secrets for a flawless face all summer long.

The desert heats up past 110 degrees, and faces always have that extra unwanted shine to them. What's a great product(s) to help tone down shine in the summer?

I always start off with a mattifying gel like OC Eight Mattifying Gel to tone down any extra shine and apply Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Airbrush Spray Makeup that lasts longer in humid or hot climates. Keep blotting papers in your bag too to absorb any excess grease.

Do you have any tips to help makeup from melting and look fresh?

Store gel eyeliner pencils in the refrigerator so they glide on without getting mushy, and make sure they are waterproof like my Forever Stay Eye Pencils so once they go on they never smear. Use smudge-proof mascara like Blinc Mascara that is a tube technology that won't budge, and use sheer powder blush in floral shades to keep skin looking bright.

Your recommendations on a great waterproof mascara?

I love the Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof formula because it has a small tapered brush that reaches every lash. Only use waterproof if you're going swimming because it can be drying to your lashes. For day to day wear, opt for the tube technology mascaras for longevity that won't dry out lashes or smear.

Being it's so hot outdoors, what products should I wear to still look great?

A light layer of Airbrush Spray Makeup, Natural Highlighter under the brows and on the inner corners of the eyes, a sweep of loose powder on the T-zone and sheer powder blush on the apples of your cheeks, waterproof eyeliner and tube tech mascara. Last, add a sweep of Ultra Soothing Lip Tint.

What is your favorite multipurpose summer must have product?

Bronzing Powder. I never tan and still like a little color so my Sun Glow Powder Bronzer can be used to warm up the face, chest and even enhance cleavage in a fun summer dress.

Are there any changes we should make in our skincare routine during summer months?

Yes, use lighter moisturizers and major sunscreen. My favorite is Skinceuticals Sport SPF 45. If you are in direct sun all day long, spritz a little spray sunscreen over your makeup later on to ensure protection.

Stay Matte - A Bit Too Invisible, Yet Very Detectable

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Sun, 10 Jun 2012 21:47:00 +0000

Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation

I typically really like NYX products. Their jumbo eye and lip pencils are amazing and I have several palettes I’m always reaching for. But this… this is something I’m returning asap.

NYX Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation was a complete dud for me. I was really looking forward to trying this since all my NYX purchases have been terrific, but this was the first time I’ve tried their face products.

I applied this powder foundation 2 ways: on day one I used the sponge it came with, and on day two I used the same flat head brush I apply all my foundations with. On day two I also applied a setting powder and finished my face off with Skindinavia. I wanted to give it a fair chance, and my dislike of this product is reasonable.

I do have yellow in my skin, but after applying Stay Matte I was left looking like I had some kind of skin disease. I was extremely yellow. It felt really thick on my skin and provided little-to-no coverage. So although you could see all my flaws, you could also see the powder foundation cakey mess on my skin.

I went to lunch with my mom on day one and asked her how my face looked, and she thought I forgot to apply foundation on some areas! So not only was it thick, it was also blotchy. (I did make sure to blend well, but I guess that didn’t help!)

I don’t feel this product should be labeled as a “powder foundation.” Maybe just “powder.”

I’m not giving up hope on NYX just yet. I’ll try other face products and hopefully, one will work for me.

Have you tried this product? I read many great reviews, so is there something I’m missing in my application?

Yikes! Hello, Sunscreen.

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 18:10:00 +0000

I'm sure you've all seen this, but it doesn't hurt to look at it again.. and again.

photo: msn.com

story: http://now.msn.com/living/0601-crazy-sun-damage.aspx

I have a hard time trying to remind myself to apply sunscreen every morning, and with my oily skin, sometimes I just don't want to. But I would rather be shiny than wrinkly, feel thick than droopy, and for the past few weeks, sunscreen has been my new best friend, especially on the left side of my face.

I'm currently on the hunt for my perfect sunscreen or moisturizer with sunscreen. I'll let you know what I find!

One year later… an update

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Thu, 24 May 2012 17:37:00 +0000

It’s been approximately one year since I shut down my store, blogged or been active online any other way. Sure, I’ve been on Facebook and I surf the web a lot, but I haven’t participated in a community or posted an article or said hi to anyone I used to chat with (except those on FB). I needed a break!

What can I say? How do I start?

I guess I can start with what I’m doing now. I have a “regular” full-time job as a Marketing Manager for a private country club. It felt weird to go back to a “regular” job after almost 3 years, but once I got used to waking up at the same time every day, the rest was a snap. It felt so good to learn new things and get back into designing awesome marketing pieces.

Do I love my job? I do – so much. But right now we are in our slow season and all I do is surf the web looking at wedding sites (more on that later). It will probably be this slow until September, and I’m trying to hang on. It’s so hard to come to work when it’s slow. The snooze button is my best friend. During season, I wanted to pull my hair out because it was so busy, but I loved it. I love being busy.

Will I start another business or restart my old one? Right now – I don’t know. I would love to work for myself again, but doing every.single.thing. by myself was rough. I have some great ideas, but nothing I could do solo. Would anyone like to partner up? =)

Plus, there are like a million similar companies out right now. Do I want to compete with that? Am I up for the challenge? Or do I want to start fresh with a brand new idea?

Moving on… If you don’t remember, I’ve been engaged for a while now. My Fiancé and I finally set a date, and we are getting married in October.

Now that it’s actually happening, it’s a bit scary. Trying to figure out the who, what, where, when and how was actually pretty easy. Trying to narrow down the final, minute details, well, that’s a different story!

I don’t know if I’m moving to LA or if he’s moving out here yet. We’re still trying to figure that out!

Will I keep blogging? I want to. I miss writing and reviewing. I’ve been on a major no-buy for a few months now, and I’ve been doing pretty well. Although, I did drop down a chunk of change at The Makeup Show, so I feel like I’m still trying to make up for that! =)

I’ve been out of the beauty world for a whole year, and everything has changed. Some blogs are gone. Some are so much bigger. Some have turned into a “bitches only” club. And there are so many cute, new sites I have yet to visit.

I miss the beauty world so much. I think I’m done with my break. It’s time to bust out my magic wands (brushes) and get to work.

Makeup Schools

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 11:15:00 +0000

***THIS BLOG IS CLOSED****

Please visit my new blog and check out the list of

MAKEUP SCHOOLS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

by clicking here.

Smashbox Friends & Family sale!

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 24 May 2010 21:53:00 +0000

WOOHOO! =)

Smashbox.com

Linda's Blog Sale!

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Sun, 09 May 2010 08:01:00 +0000

OMG I have to start blogging again. =)

Here are a few items that I wanted to get rid of. Love 'em, but don't use 'em.

Shipping is $1.50 for whatever you buy. Let me know if you want me to sanitize before I mail. And of course, you'll get some extra samples tossed into your order as well.

Please email me at linda@yourbeautymark.com

Thanks!

Urban Decay Heavy Metal in Air Guitar
Swatched about 2x on my hand.
Retails for $18
$9

Benefit That Gal Brightening Face Primer
Used about 3-4x
Retails for $28
$11

Victoria's Secret lip brush
New
$2

- SOLD -
Sephora Birthday Bonus
Contains: Sephora Eyeshadow, Eyeliner, and Lash Plumping Mascara
New - Got it in April
$2

Global Goddess i-Divine Eye Color in Karishma
Used once
Retails for $18
$4

- SOLD -
Victoria's Secret Lasting Effects Eyeshadow Primer
Used 2-3x
Retails for $8
$4

LA Splash Cosmetics Eyeliner Sealer
(dip brush in eyeshadow to create your own eyeliner)
New
Retails for $6.99
$4

Mehron Professional Touch Up Anti-Shine
Used 2-3x on my T-zone
Retails for $8.95
$4

Victoria's Secret Lustre Eyeshadow in Darling
Used 2-3x
Retails for $10
$4

Cover Girl Smoky Shadow Blast in Purple Plum
Used 2x
$2

- SOLD -
Hot Topic brand baked eyeshadows
(Sorry but colors aren't listed on the shadows)
Used 2x
Retails for $3
$1.50/ea or both for $2

Please email me at linda@yourbeautymark.com if interested. I make deals! =)

And here's an FYI for you NYX Junkies:

I'm placing my NYX rep order this week, so if you wanted to purchase NYX, get it at 30% off retail (!!!) with me. Just email your NYX shopping list to linda@yourbeautymark.com. There is no minimum order amount, and shipping is less expensive than NYXcosmetics.com shipping.

=)

Carmindy: tips for summer beauty

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 23:08:00 +0000

[from my examiner.com article.]

Hi gals. I wanted to post my Examiner article here as well. I'm pretty psyched that Carmindy answered my interview questions. She's such a sweetheart. Enjoy! -----

Renowned makeup artist Carmindy brings a touch of gold to her inspiring looks. Mainly known for her role on TLC's What Not To Wear, Carmindy has worked with a number of top magazines, including InStyle, Elle, Marie Claire, and Cosmopolitan.

Beauty can be overwhelming, but Carmindy makes it look so easy. And with summer fast approaching, it can be difficult to figure out exactly what to wear and how to wear it.

Here, Carmindy graciously shares with me her secrets for a flawless face all summer long.

With summer right around the corner, the desert heats up past 110 degrees, and faces always have that extra unwanted shine to them. What's a great product(s) to help tone down shine in the summer?

I always start off with a mattifying gel like OC Eight Mattifying Gel to tone down any extra shine and apply Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Airbrush Spray Makeup that lasts longer in humid or hot climates. Keep blotting papers in your bag too to absorb any excess grease.

Do you have any tips to help makeup from melting and look fresh?

Store gel eyeliner pencils in the refrigerator so they glide on without getting mushy, and make sure they are waterproof like my Forever Stay Eye Pencils so once they go on they never smear. Use smudge-proof mascara like Blinc Mascara that is a tube technology that won't budge, and use sheer powder blush in floral shades to keep skin looking bright.

Your recommendations on a great waterproof mascara?

I love the Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof formula because it has a small tapered brush that reaches every lash. Only use waterproof if you're going swimming because it can be drying to your lashes. For day to day wear, opt for the tube technology mascaras for longevity that won't dry out lashes or smear.

Being it's so hot outdoors, what products should I wear to still look great?

A light layer of Airbrush Spray Makeup, Natural Highlighter under the brows and on the inner corners of the eyes, a sweep of loose powder on the T-zone and sheer powder blush on the apples of your cheeks, waterproof eyeliner and tube tech mascara. Last, add a sweep of Ultra Soothing Lip Tint.

What is your favorite multipurpose summer must have product?

Bronzing Powder. I never tan and still like a little color so my Sun Glow Powder Bronzer can be used to warm up the face, chest and even enhance cleavage in a fun summer dress.

Are there any changes we should make in our skincare routine during summer months?

Yes, use lighter moisturizers and major sunscreen. My favorite is Skinceuticals Sport SPF 45. If you are in direct sun all day long, spritz a little spray sunscreen over your makeup later on to ensure protection.

Your Sally Hansen Natural Beauty line looks fabulous. Which products should every girl keep in her makeup bag?

This summer the absolute must have products are my Forever Stay Eye Pencils in Jade, Pure Plum and Indigo, Luminizing Face Primer for night time face and body glow, my Ultra Soothing Lip Tint for perfect beachy lips and my Natural Powder Blush in Ethereal and Cherub.

It's almost my birthday contest!

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 14:46:00 +0000

March 28 is almost here. WooHoo and barf at the same time!

I'm turning 28 this Sunday, and even though I get excited for my birthday, it's always depressing for 2 reasons: 1 - I'm getting closer to 30 and 2 - my birthdays always suck arse. Always. Allllways.

I'm either bored or get into a big fight or plans fail...

I could bore you with the details, but I'm sure you'd like me to skip ahead to the contest portion of this post before it becomes a pity party turned self help book. =) Let's get a smile on your face!

Contest time:

Under the comments, wish me a Happy Birthday any way you want and you'll be entered to win your choice colors of mark's NEW Keep It Going longwear shadow + liner duo and mark's Just Pinched blush tint.

Keep It Going: An innovative, multiuse eye color that just doesn’t give up! Each compact features two waterproof, gel-based shades that are buildable for extra intensity and literally last all day. $10
Just Pinched: Glides on smooth and blends easily to provide a sheer wash of natural-looking color. $7

That's all you have to do! It would be nice if you Twittered or reposted this contest, but that's optional. If I get more than 15 entries I'll add a second winner. WooHoo!

*This contest ends March 30. Winner will receive one Keep It Going and one Just Pinched in preferred colors. You can only enter once. If you don't have a blog or your email isn't on it, please leave your email. Open to the US and International. Winner has 24 hours to respond to my winning email or prize is forfeited. Please, no current mark reps.

meetmarkbeauty.com

mark. CSULA Event...

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 05:18:00 +0000

About 2 weeks ago I attended this fab mark event at CSULA. They offered makeovers and showed off the latest products, including the must have mark gel eyeliner. Love it!

I got my makeup done by a mark pro and ended up grabbing some things I didn't have. I opted for a simple smoky eye because sometimes I have issues with my crease. The mua really brought out my cheekbones.

Here are a few pics from the event - and sorry for my bad after photo. The lighting in the area I was in sucked.

http://lindasellsmark.com

The Makeup Show 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 08:32:00 +0000

Did you guys go to The Makeup Show? Because of back problems, I was in and out in about 1 hour. I know I know... One hour? But I was able to get a few yummy products. I don't have pics of those, but I do have pics of the show. =)

Adoro

Mehron

Korres

Inglot

mark It Kit Review...

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:22:00 +0000

I just got this in the mail last week and have already been using it daily. =)

What it is:
mark It Kit Trend Color Compact

The 10 best shades for spring, all-in-one limited-edition compact!

For spring's hottest looks, it doesn't get better than this! A unique "flipping" inner component holds three lip glosses and three triple use color creams (formulated for eyes, cheeks and lips!) on one side, three eye shadows and a universally flattering bronzer on the other.

3 Lip Glosses: Shades - Sigh, Strut and Primp.
3 Triple use color creams: Shades - Poise, Bon Bon and Poppy.
3 Eye shadows: Shades - Ruffle, Vanity and Amped.
1 Bronzing powder: Shade - Pro Golden.

This kit rocks! One side has 3 shadows (2 shimmer, 1 matte) and a bronzer, but when you flip it around you get 3 lip glosses (2 shimmer, 1 flat) and 3 cream shades for eyes, lips, and cheeks.

The cream shades really let you create your own unique shades on your eyes and lips since they can be mixed and matched.

- eye shadows (top) cream shades (2nd row) and gloss (bottom) swatches -

- bronzer and eye shadow swatches -

Seriously folks -my (camera phone) photos DO NOT do these colors justice. The eye shadows are perfect for creating a nice smokey eye or quick, neutral eye. The glosses can be mixed and matched, and the cream shades can be used:
- on your cheeks
- on your eyes (use alone as a shadow or below any eye shadow for extra pop) or
- mixed in with your choice gloss.

This is such a great palette when I travel to LA overnight or when I stay at my mom's and don't want to lug a case of makeup. And I can toss it into my purse and have a whole face of makeup in one little compact case. I would definitely get it for the cream shades alone. They're so pretty and my favorite part of the kit.

The cost is $20 and you also receive a FREE 3-piece mini brush set for a limited time. Get FREE shipping on the kit with code MFS20.

meetmarkbeauty.com

------------------------

If you didn't know...

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:31:00 +0000

If you didn't know, I'm on a quest to meet George Lopez for my birthday! I've started a Twitter account and a blogger account to try and contact him and record my updates.

"My goal for my birthday is simple: To meet comedian, actor, gacho-king George Lopez. I think he's more than hilarious, he's real, warm, and sincere as a person.

When asked the question, "What do you want for your birthday," I never have a definitive answer. Over the years I've said things like nothing, love, cash, hugs, gift cards, and overall happiness. Last year I asked God to bring my daddy back. I know that's impossible, but when you've just lost someone you love, you constantly wish for one more day with that person.

This year, my birthday wish is simple: To see the man that makes me smile, that is an inspiration to us Latinos, and who makes me believe that if you truly want something, you can make it happen.

This is the start of me making it happen."

I REALLY hope I get to meet him. I've been to his show before, but I'm not the type of person who's going to jump over a chair just to touch him. I want to "meet" him.

I received some exciting news yesterday, so I really hope my birthday wish will happen.

If you're not busy, feel free to Tweet my message or follow my new blog. If it doesn't happen this year, I'm going to keep it and try again next.

Thanks! =)

Twitter: http://twitter.com/GLoBirthday
Blog: http://globirthday.blogspot.com

Skin MD Natural: Ooohs and Aaahs...

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:49:00 +0000

After reading so many great reviews on other blogs, I really wanted to try this lotion from Skin MD for myself. Luckily, Skin MD contacted me about doing a review, and I happily accepted. They sent me a bottle of this fab lotion to test, and my skin has never been happier!

About Skin MD Natural - Shielding Lotion:

Skin MD Natural is a shielding lotion, a very special type of lotion helping the skin restore its integrity, enhance its protective functions so that the skin is able to heal naturally and regain its youthful appearance. Skin MD Natural works by bonding with cells of the skin's outermost layer to form what works as an invisible shield. This layer of protection prevents environmental irritants and pollutants from penetrating the skin, while sealing in the skin's own natural oils and moisture, helping resolve the dry skin condition.

Skin MD Natural uses only the finest natural ingredients, and is focused on urging the skin to be active, and to use its own moisture to effectively heal itself. It is not oily or sticky, doesn't sit on top of your skin leaving a greasy residue on everything you touch, it doesn't rub or wash off easily, is hypoallergenic, fragrance, colorant and paraben free and dermatology tested.

I live in the desert and all year long it's dry. Sure we get a great spot of rain here and there, but for the most part, it's dehydration-city. My legs always need moisture, and even though I moisturize daily, by early afternoon my legs and ankles are ashy. It's not a pretty sight.

I tried this Shielding Lotion on my legs and immediately I felt relief from the dryness. Usually my lotions leave my hands feeling greasy - gross. This was not greasy or oily at all. My hands were left with nothing but a nice scent - no goop, no slime, no nothing. I almost jumped for joy for that alone!

The real test was if my legs would be ash-free hours later. And yes, they were as smooth and happy as when I first applied the lotion. They did not look like they hiked 30 miles through rough patches.

My hands are happy, too. I wash my hands frequently, and I felt like this lotion was still working on my hands by late afternoon. Usually I reapply lotion a few times on my hands throughout the day. I had no need to apply more than once with Skin MD Natural.

Another positive is you only need a very small amount. It comes in a 4oz bottle, but that can last you a long time depending on how you use it. I'm using it on my legs and arms, though some also use it on their face.

Skin MD Natural is currently holding a Valentine's giveaway with some fab products. You can also order samples for only $2 to test this lotion out for yourself. It's a definite must-buy in my book!

http://www.skinmdnatural.com

Are you Enviius?

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 07:46:00 +0000

I opened my email a bit earlier and received an invitation to join a new shopping site - Enviius. The name piqued my curiosity and I visited the site. If you're familiar with sites like Ideeli and Hautelook, then you'll be interested in Enviius.

Enviius is the first Canadian private sale retailer featuring designer products at up to 75% off retail. They launched in April 2009, so they're still pretty new. And yes, they ship to the US.

Since they're offering a $10 coupon to anyone who signs up (woohoo!) I joined and my bank was credited $10. Right now they have an XOXO sale that looks interesting, but nothing I would purchase. Just like the other shopping sites, I'll be checking in weekly to see the new offerings.

I don't know the shipping costs, but checked their information and:
"Shipping is based on your location, the number of parcels, and if the merchandise is oversized. Shipment costs are calculated at the checkout."

You can visit Enviius at enviius.com.

A Fab UPrinting Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 08:57:00 +0000

UPDATE: Congrats to wuzzyangel for winning this prize! Enjoy your business cards, hun. UPrinting will be contacting you soon!
____________________

If you need printing done, UPrinting is the perfect site to visit. From business cards to postcards and posters, they offer wonderful quality items at great prices.

UPrinting is allowing me to offer my readers one free set of 250 business cards. These cards are just the perfect match to start a good year for your business.

TO ENTER:

Leave a comment + email on this post letting me know how you'll use the business cards.

THE PRIZE:

250 Business Cards, provided by UPrinting

Size: 2 x 3.5”, 2 x 3”, 2 x 2” (square card) or 1.5 x 3.5” (skinny card)
Paper: 14 pt gloss cardstock, 14 pt matte cardstock or 13 pt recycled uncoated cardstock
Sponsored bloggers and Winners have to pay for shipping. US only.

Enter by January 18th.

Legal Mumbo Jumbo
I reserve the right to change or cancel this contest at any time without notice. Unfortunately, I cannot exchange or replace prize products for any reason, including damage or loss. Only correct comments count as an entry - leave your name and email. By entering this contest, you are giving me permission to forward your name, address, and email to UPrinting for delivery of the prize. Entries accepted through 1/18/10. The winner will be contacted by email no later than 1/20/10. UPrinting is providing the prize at no cost to me.

NYC New York Color Light Beam gloss - light up your lips!

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 02:16:00 +0000

While shopping at Walmart last evening, I came across these really cute glosses by New York Color called Light Beam. Since they were only $2.50 (yay!) I bought 2 of these babies - NY Lights and Broadway Lights.

NY Lights is a very shimmery, almost glittery, sheer pink. The shimmer looks great - very cute. Broadway Lights is a flat, sheer light red. They both smell yummy! Just like candy.

The best part is these have a small LED light right in the cap and a little mirror on one side - perfect for applying in low light!

I really like these glosses. They're not super shiny, which is nice because for some reason almost all my glosses are very shiny. The stickiness factor isn't too bad either and like I said above, these smell just like candy. Mmmm...

But I did feel like not enough came out for each application - meaning I had to stick the applicator back in the jar a few times to get enough for my pucker. Luckily for me, that doesn't bug me.

I do plan on buying the other ones. At only $2.50 each, these are a great deal!