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Free for Haul Friday, Volume #373
Share your recent beauty purchases or rediscovered favorites in your stash (for those on low/no-buys!), chit chat about weekend plans, and learn a little more about each other!
Let's Chat!
Share your own answers in the comments!
- Haul: It’s been a quiet week! Hurray!
- Weekend plans: My parents are here, and my sister flies in today for the weekend — so mostly spend time with them 🙂
- Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty!) for 2017?: Nothing this year – I have mini goals I want to accomplish this year but not what I’d call a real resolution!
This week's doggo photo/video...
Share your pet photos to the Temptalia Pets flickr group!
Haul:
1. An LOL to start — I got swept up in a magpie moment in my own mind impulsively ordered the TF golden peach cream and metallic shadow combo. I have ZERO need for this product, so when it arrived yesterday, I brought the unopened box back to Sephora that same afternoon. I intend to stop doing this kind of purchasing so I am. I have lovely, beautiful shadows to use, and I need to check out things this pricey in person before jumping on it. Proud of me-self. 🙂
2. Got a bunch of different sheet masks to try as I embark on this the SoKo skin care experiment during the winter here in Boston. Between the cold and the pool, I’m making a concerted effort to keep the skin on my face and body as hydrated as possible.
3. My son’s GF got me a three month Birchbox subscription for Xmas! Perfect! In it I got a sample from the Coastal Scents blush/bronzer palette in a coral blush and a highlighter. I have to say I am IM-pressed. Lovely pigmentation and tone, easy blending. I knew nothing about this line before this.
BRUSHES!
4. My friend Yukari is back from Japan with the last of my brushes (Chikuhodo) to round out by curated stash. I’ll start with what she brought back for me, and at the same time play Christine 🙂 and rate them from my POV. She did get them for me at about 30% off, so that is a bonus!
RECENT BRUSH ADDITIONS FROM JAPAN
CHIKUHODO RR-SL1 Shadow Liner — Holy crap, this is an incredible powerhouse of a brush. It is TINY, but packs a whollop! I have using my $1 Elf brush (which as been OK), but switching to this for precision work and tight lines near the lashes and I am amazed at the ease and control. A+++++
2x CHIKUHODO GSN-2 Powder Brush — I got two, and am glad I did. OUTSTANDING. They are supposedly for powder, but using them for liquid foundation is a dream. There is not another brush of this size than performs like it in my stash –on powder, with liquid, for buffing– it’s incredible. A+++++
CHIKUHODO Z-10 Eye Shadow — Pencil-ish brush with densely packed bristles with a pointed tip that “concentrate color on the eyelid and add definition to the crease.” Yep. That’s what it does. No tugging or dragging. Let’s you get very precise. A+++++
CHIKUHODOFA-2 Foaming Brush — This is a washing brush that I have not tried yet because my husband has absconded with it! He gives it an A+++++. He loves it. I plan to try it this weekend. I may get another here at this link — https://www.visageusa.com:4433/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=312
THE OTHER NEW-ISH BRUSHES AND WHAT I THINK:
Wayne Goss Air Brush: Nice brush, not as versatile as I would have thought. I use it mostly for highlighter now, occasionally for an extra swipe of blush lightly. Am reaching for it more than I have in the past. B+/A-
Wayne Goss Brush 19 (eye): Great for the crease and blending. I rely on this one every day. A+++++
Wayne Goss Brush 11 (cheek): Meh. See the Hakudodo below. I would not repurchase as I don’t find this brush anything special. B-
HAKUHODO — Yachiyo, Medium Tapered brush. Magic wand for blush. You can see this angelic little powerhouse at the link. Plus, it’s beautiful. A+++++ https://olgablik.com/2015/07/25/nars-dual-intensity-blush-reviews-photos-swatches/
CHIKUHODO Z-5 Eye Shadow: — I can do an entire eyelook with this one brush. From lid to crease to blending. If you want ONE eye brush, this is it. Will repurchase. A+++++
NOT MY FAVORITES:
CHIKUHODO Z-3 Contour: Way too small, it’s OK, has other uses, but not worth it for me. Would not repurchase. C-
CHIKUHODO F-2 Foundation: OK, but no better than my worn out Sigma Kabuki. No comparison to the GSN-2 Powder cited above. C+
WEEKEND PLANS:
I am holiday-ed OUT! All guests and kids are gone and I just want to spend some quiet time with my husband. We got a nice single malt Scotch for Xmas that is calling for a fire, a book, and a glass. 🙂
RESOLLUTIONS:
Since I stopped competing athletically (i.e. stopped training “seriously”), and added an eyedrop med that makes you gain weight, I have gained about 18 pounds over the past 18 months. I know it is a trite, tired resolution, but I want to get 10 of it off. Then I’ll be just fine. My friend Kris and I have done it together before, and we’re getting on the wagon together right after the New Year.
Have fun playing with all of your new brushes! So many great ones you got there 🙂
Best wishes for your weight loss goals!
Interesting with Birchbox! I just got my first box and clearly we received different samples. Thanks for noting what you thought of Coastal Scents. I’m not familiar with the brand either and it’s good to know you were impressed!
I completely agree with your assessment of the Air Brush. I use mine for highlighter as well. I’m loving your reviews on the CHIKUHODO; haven’t added any to my stash yet.
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year to you too, Michele! I love following you on IG.
This wasn’t a “real” Birchbox– I get that one in Jan and picked the curated stash so I already know what I’m getting. This one was a samples they sent Brooke (my son’s gf) so she would have something to gift me? I think. 🙂 That’s probably why there is a difference.
Hope the brush input helps. I had NO idea I’d be going into the realm of brushes in 2016, but I’m glad I dumped the deadwood and got what works.
Oh, thank you.
Well then it will be interesting to see the difference in our January boxes. I didn’t go with the curated box. I picked the mascara and am letting them select the rest of the samples based on my profile. Really curious to see how well they do!
The brush input is extremely helpful. 🙂
I was also disappointed by Wayne Goss 11, even a little bit by 02 too. They’re nothing special imo.
Hi Roxi — It pains me to agree. I was so sold on his brushes, but there is a distinct difference between the quality of the Chikuhodo (C) and the Hakuhodo (H) vs. the WG. It’s not our imagination, it’s true.
When I think of the difference between C, H, and even WG vs. MAC I’m amazed. And MAC was what I aspired to for eons — and there isn’t even that much of a difference in price between the outstanding quality of the Japanese brushes and the mediocre. I dumped most of my SIgma and ALL my Morphe and Crown brushes. I have a much smaller supply and need no more. 🙂
Wayne Goss brushes feel kind of like a beginning path for people who are into higher end brushes or Japanese fude culture. But he charges pretty high for these entry level mediocre brushes. I’m glad to see many beauty gurus / lovers in western countries are appreciating the Japanese artistry of brushes more and more, and his line is an easily accessible start. But I think he’s still a businessman at the end of the day, and kind of use ‘made in Japan’ as sort of a stunt to some degree? There are far more cost efficient Japanese brushes out there. One thing I really have a problem with, is that they (beautylish) don’t disclose the hair type properly. They always say it’s cruelty free natural bristles. Well Sokoho goat hair is natural bristles but so are blue squirrels. Their ambiguity makes me feel as if this is a brand primarily meeting demands of amateurs, instead of what Wayne Goss make it out to be.
Hi Roxi,
I’m so glad to have someone else agree. I feel for his “cult of personality,” I’ll admit it. But then I got his stuff, and even though I am NO expert, I could see this wasn’t quite up to what I expected. So when I went to the source (C and H), I immediately saw the difference and knew I was right.
If I order any more Chikuhodo brushes, I will order them from Visage. You have to wait a little longer as they come from Japan, but it’s worth it. (My friend Yukari turned me on to the site.) Here’s a link. This is about materials and uses. http://www.visageusa.com/index.php?main_page=page&id=18
Thanks for your thoughts on the Japanese brushes, might pick one up in 2017
What masks did you, did you get the When Travel mate? I meant to answer your comment about the masks, yes I think I mentioned it on here before! Lol! Hope you report back on them sometime!
Enjoy the time with your family, Christine!
Haul: Sephora Ultra Shine Lip Gloss Deep Rose – love it! Perfect MLBB. Also MAC Vamplify in Tuned In, which I am not so crazy about. It’s not bad, I just thought the pearl/shimmer would be much more noticeable but I feel like my tube just comes off as a cream finish. I like the formula, though.
Weekend plans: My husband is off so we are going to do a little shopping and a little home-project stuff, and celebrate NYE at home with some yummy food.
Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty!) for 2017?: I always make the same one – try to interrupt less! I just get really enthusiastic when I have something to say 🙂
I will (or I am? lol!).
Deep Rose is gorgeous! A great and easy shade to wear.
Happy new year!
Enjoy your time with your family Christine! Happy New Year!
Haul:
Beautylish: Lucky Bag (ships around 1/4)
BH Cosmetics (35% off): Nude Rose Highlighter Palette, Deluxe Fan Brush, Spooley Brush, Modern Mattes 28 Color Eyeshadow Palette, Satin Bronzers Natural Finish Bronzer (Tranquil Tan), Eye Essential 7 Piece Brush Set, Floral Blush Duo Cheek Color (Fiji Fun), Large Cotton Puff (3), Studio Pro Beauty sponge (3), Modern Mattes to Go 6 Color Eyeshadow Palette (GWP). Scheduled to be delivered next week.
Birchbox (30% off): LOC Complete Tati Collection for Eyes, Oribe Gold Lust Transformative Masque deluxe sample. I got a LOC crayon in my first Birchbox and really liked it. Figured I’d pick up the set since it was so cheap.
ColourPop: Weekend Warrior, Coconut, Head Rush, High Rise. Being delivered today.
Illamasqua (10% off): Skin Base Foundation in 06, Liquid Metal Palette, Glamore
Lipstick in Kitsch, Deluxe Hydra Veil Sample. Being delivered next Tuesday.
MAC (Goodbyes): Eyeshadow (Bowl Out, Bowlarama, Gutter Gal), Vamplify (What’s Going On, How Chic Is This?). These were all winners. I posted my shadow swatches today.
Sephora: Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow (Violet Vixen), Lancome Le Metallique Metallic Lip Lacquer (Molten Magenta), Too Faced x KVD Better Together Cheek & Lip Makeup Bag Set, Sephora Collection Pro Contour Kabuki #82 (1/2 price), Burberry Liquid Lip Velvet (Fawn Rose No. 09), Atelier Cologne Vanille Insensee 100 point reward (2). Love, love, love the Stila! The Lancome seems nice although is fairly thin. I feel that the TF x KVD is nice but not worth the money for the tiny “samples” you get. The makeup bag is super cute but wildly impractical since the zipper is on the side. so if you put any number of items in it, they’ll fall out when you unzip the bag.
Tarte: Don’t Be Afraid to Dazzle (2). I got these as backups since they’re LE and out of stock now at Ulta. The contour shade is perfect for cooltoned.
Urban Decay: Quick Fix Hydra-Charged Complexion Prep Priming Spray, Optical Illusion Complexion Primer. Both of these seem promising.
Weekend plans: No idea. I have to do my mani and clip my nails down since the nail I’ve been trying to save appears unsavable.
Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty!) for 2017?: I posted this on my FB this morning. It’s a FB “memory” from last year. But it’s still dead on and actually respond to your question. I hope you don’t mind that I’m copying it in part here. feel free to delete it, if it’s too much…I don’t get offended. 🙂
I don’t think a lot about New Year’s Eve. For the last number of years, the only thing NYE has meant to me is a new 3 months of writing the wrong year on my checks. So when Refinery29 posted asking what their readers were getting rid of (and looking forward to) in 2016, I thought I’d stop and think about it for a bit.
For so many, the New Year means making resolutions. I’ve never been a big believer in resolutions; after all why do tomorrow what you can do today? Life is meant to be lived and participated in, not to sit on the sidelines waiting for a single moment when you can jump to your feet and cheer. You want to do something? Make something happen? Do it now. You are really only ever the only thing that stands in your way of change. Now if you’re someone that needs that special moment for action, well, I say do what works for you. What’s right for me may not be right for anyone else. Make your resolutions if you care to. For my part, I’ll pass and act when action is called for.
Tied into the notion of resolutions is the question of what you leave behind…what you are getting rid of. Like my lack of interest in making resolutions, I chose not to leave anything behind. Why would I? All of the moments in the year are what have made me who I am today. Sure the moments are not always warm, wonderful, or gratifying. Often, there are moments that fill our years that are painful.
It would have been easy to leave behind the struggles to fit in during my school years, the death of my father in 1992 and my subsequent and related withdrawal from law school, the diagnosis and horrendous treatment for breast cancer in 2010, or death of my beloved cat, Binx, (my first pet) in 2012. But these events and many others are part and parcel of who I am. To leave them behind would be to sever a part of who I’ve become.
It could be argued that leaving behind those things we’ve done that we may not be so proud of could be a good thing. I say not. I say carry them with you as the lesson you’ve learned, the better person you’ve become, the secrets you’ve discovered. Take them with you as a badge of strength. These are the things that have shaped us and realizing them for what they are, we continue to grow.
And for those that know me well and know my makeup obsession, you may wonder why I chose to take with me all of the signs that 2016 will mark my half century in this world. I will happily carry my fine lines, my encroaching silver (although dyed they will continue to sprout up and remind me of their presence), my stretch marks, and those extra pounds into the New Year. Together and alone they carry with them my memories: my college graduation, my first marriage, the joy of my first house, the birth of my only child… They are the reflections of a life that has been lived.
So what do I look forward to in 2016? The joy, the wonder, the learning, and the surprises that await me. Every breath we take is another chance; a beginning of a new chapter if you will. I’ll turn that page because I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Happy new year, Michele!
Have you had a chance to try the new Burberry lip color? I’m curious how the formula will dry down.
🙂 No, haven’t tried the Burberry yet since it’s the one order Sephora hasn’t shipped. Will try to remember to let you know. I’m hoping it’s exceptionally good as mattes and I are not good friends but my curiosity got the better of me!
Well put, Binx Mama. We all live part-time over the rainbow bridge. Always enjoy your hauls and your ig. That has always meant Italian Greyhounds until peeking at yours!
Bravo!!! That’s EXACTLY what I mean, Michele! But you’ve put it far more eloquently than I did below where I too stated that I do not believe in making New Years resolutions. I have never, and will never make them.
I just love that about resolutions. Outstanding.
Being at peace with oneself, taking the complete composite of experiences into the future — there is no other alternative if you think about it. People talk about “turning the page.” But I always think of the stack of pages the new one flips onto. It’s a book of stories and pictures of a life. There is never a “new page,” never a do-over. We can never go back to a blank slate. It all adds up to who we are today, for better or worse.
I feel I have the self-acceptance down. I do not doubt that I am a good person, nor do I doubt my sincere intentions in life. It’s now about needless worry and anxiety that come from those flipped pages that made me who I am. Peace in that area is the mountain of my life I continue to climb climb.
Lovely post, my sentiments are the same ? xx
Well said Michele. Happy New Year everyone. Many blessings to you all and your families, especially you Christine. Thank you for all that you do for our love of cosmetics and all things beauty.
HAUL: My mom got me the Lorac Pro 3 Palette. She wears some makeup but doesn’t know brands outside of the dept store. Somehow she found the Lorac Pro palettes at Ulta and got the one she thought would suit me. I think she made the right choice. Even though it’s not a homerun (one shade is a total dud and the shimmers have a lot of fallout while applying–though not during wear) the colors are really effortless for my skintone and blend well. I’m proud of her for picking it out lol!
WEEKEND: NYE pajama party 🙂
RESOLUTIONS: I don’t really do resolutions. Usually I try to budget better and spend less, but this is better done on a month-to-month basis for me than the whole year. In 2016 I curbed my spending a LOT but there is always a month or two where I spend more. Fall/Christmas usually gets me.
At least the fallout you’re experiencing is only during application – better than during the day!
Good job Mom 😀
Christine — have a great, restful and fun weekend off! Family is important, and you must be just wiped out after all the reviews in recent weeks!
Haul: I have indulged over the last couple of weeks, yikes. But it’s been rewarding. Laura Mercier matte radiance and translucent setting powder — love both! Colourpop Desert and White Rabbit shadows — love both. Guerlain Lingerie de Peau foundation, which I like but a tad too much coverage for my taste so I mix it with Smashbox Camera Ready foundation and it’s perfect. The Guerlain SA gave me some primer samples, and now I’m all about primers, what took me so long. I like the Guerlain meteorites primer but it’s costly, so for now trying out Smashbox and the L. Mercier mentioned above. Also, a basic — MUFE eyeshadow in Oat.
Weekend plans: Today I return home after a week in a city I’m contemplating relocating to; I’ve been staying at a very nice place, an indulgence but much needed after a hard few months. So the weekend is laundry, groceries, pilates class and other basic life stuff.
2017: No main resolutions. I need to keep working on improving my sleep habits; it’s tough going. Looking forward into next phase life, so will keep checking out options. I’ve fallen out of touch with too many long time friends, so some work there. Then the usuals — eat better, work out more, keep up savings, etc.
How did you like the city that might be your new home? Did you get a good feel for it?
It’s good you were able to scout out the new area before deciding to relocate. Neither me nor my fiancé had ever been to the town we moved to last month, it was a total leap of faith! I viewed the rented flat with my 2 year old daughter while my fiancé was at work and texted him afterwards, I liked it and it met most of our needs so we went for it as we only had until mid Jan to move out of our old flat. A week later we had the keys! It’s a really nice town and the people are friendly so we’re looking forward to getting to know it. Good luck with the decision!
Mellan, best Christmas present ever! Love the mini tree with the starbucks ornaments. Hope you enjoy time with your family, nice way to start the new year
*Haul – travel sized Tatcha Facial Mist, free travel sized sample of Classic Rice Powder
*Weekend –trying to kick a mild cold, so will be staying inside, with heater cranked up. We don’t go out for NY Eve, we stay in, eat pizza or fresh crab, download or rent a movie, watch the ball go down at midnight
*NY Resolution -buy less makeup! I think I might actually be able to do it this year, as my stash has grown so big that I’m only trying to buy things that are unique or superior in quality to what I already have. And same – exercise more, lose some weight, get more sleep
I hope you feel better, Katherine!
Fresh crab on NYE? That is an awesome way to celebrate the new year!
Oh yes, one of the great things about living near the CA coast -fresh crab around New Year’s! Hubby and I each get our own, so no fighting over the best parts 🙂 Even the toddler loves it. We steam with lemons, although her fave is sautéed crab cakes. Supply is tighter this year, as some of the fisherman are on strike, but we’ll see….
Hope you enjoy the Tatcha mist!
Thanks Lea! I haven’t been able to fully test it out yet, but first impressions are good, and you’re right, it’s an exact replica of their full sized one, so beautiful and elegant! Definitely a “mini me” hahahhaha and love that it’s re-fillable
Haul: MAC Sweet Vision blush. So glad I was able to grab one at Belk since they’re 40% off.
Weekend plans: nothing at all. My sister actually leaves this weekend, lol we’re opposite. My husband drives Uber so he’ll be busy with that for NYE.
Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty!) for 2017?: not really a resolution but my word for the year is Resolve 🙂
40% off — nice deal!
Resolve – that is a good one!
Nice Belk deal!
Haul: If Christmas presents count, the KVD Metal Matte palette and UD Full Spectrum.
Weekend plans: Getting caught up on work around the house and staying up late on New Year’s with my daughter.
Resolutions:
1. Get back in the gym (there was a period of about 2 months when, for reasons beyond my control, I was unable to go, but that’s about to change).
2. Be more careful with money in general. (This is more of a necessity than a resolution, though.)
3. Stand up for myself more. I typically try to avoid conflict and confrontation, but I’ve had to be a lot more assertive on many fronts lately and the world didn’t end.
Gifts count! 🙂
Good for you on being more assertive – it’s good to stand up for yourself!
Nice Christmas gifts! The 2 work really well together too!
Haul: Beautylish Lucky Box (regular). Enjoying makeup I received for Christmas.
Weekend Plans: Still on holidays, so enjoying time with family and friends.
New Year’s Resolutions: I don’t make resolutions however I aspire to be more organized. Organizing my makeup and jewelrythat will be my first projects in the new year.
Happy New Year everyone!
Can’t wait for you to get your Lucky Bag, Tracey!
Haul: Dior nail polish in red 999 to match the lippie my husband put in my stocking stuffer. ?
Weekend: painting baby room and spending the first New Year’s Eve in with just us. I’m hoping to make it to midnight!
Resolutions: I’d be happy just getting back into shape quickly after the baby comes in March. But immediately? Enjoy the peace and quiet and sleep in a little bit more pre-baby!
What color are you painting the baby room?
A very soft, pale aquamarine. Even though we’re having a girl, I want a more gender-neutral room (not a fan of pink walls). And if we have a boy in a couple years I don’t have to repaint!
Not all girls like pink, so who knows 😀 Do you have a theme too? Not interested in babies myself but love decor, haha, and baby rooms are often done to the nines.
Oddly enough, I’m not really interested in other people’s babies. They’re boring and don’t really do much. Of course I’m interested in my baby, but I wouldn’t exactly call myself a baby person.
No theme. Honestly I’m so bad at thematic decorating and have so many other things to do at the moment that it’s enough for me to have a few pieces of furniture and some painted walls before she arrives. For that reason I’m sticking with white furniture. She won’t even be sleeping in there until she’s at least 4 months old anyway. Babies don’t care about animal murals and matching curtains.
Honestly, I’m more interested in the makeup vanity my husband just built me, lol.
I’m bad at it, too, haha! I think that is why I tend to enjoy seeing other people do it, since if I tried it, it would look like a disaster, haha.
Enjoy your sleep before she arrives 😉
Haul:
ULTA 20% off coupon: repurchase of Living Proof no frizz Humidity Shield spray and Perfect Hair Day Fresh Cut Split End Mender, and of First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser and Ultra Repair Face Moisturizer; Anastasia eyeshadows in Soft Gold, Metal, Truffle Glitter, and Emerald (very nice).
Sephora: the Urban Decay After Dark palette, Make Up For Ever Acrylip in 600 Dark Purple, and a First Aid Beauty set on sale with one ounce of the face cleanser, 28 Facial Radiance Pads (which I actually use on my decollete and arms when I have them, not on my face), and the Ultra Repair Lip Therapy in the tube, which I really like — the whole set was only $3 more than the lip balm alone, so a very good deal.
total impluse purchase at local Macy’s: MAC lipsticks to layer and play with: Matte Royal (blue), On and On (Frost, dark plummy purple), Pick Me Pick Me (Frost, a sheer lavender), and Time to Shine (Frost, silver). All of the frosts work better layered with something else than they do on their own, I think. I really like Matte Royal over Time to Shine.
Weekend plans: start cooking and baking today for a potluck party tomorrow; we’re bringing a lot of food because my friend who’s hosting has had a tough couple of weeks. Probably relaxing with Scrabble and movies on Sunday. Knitting and playing with the furbabies.
Resolutions: I don’t make formal New Years resolutions. it’s too easy for me to get tempted into setting over-ambitious goals and then end up feeling badly for not accomplishing them. I’ve got plenty of long-term goals I’m working toward already!
You’re very kind to help your friend 🙂 Hope the party goes well for everyone and your friend’s 2017 starts off better.
Happy new year, Fran!
A good friend of hers died on Christmas after a major production getting her home from the hospital for it because of rapidly progressing pancreatic cancer — this is the third death of a close friend for her this year, very sad. She doesn’t let me help much, but at least we can cook! I really hope her 2017 is *much* better, although with a niece also dying of cancer, and herself on insulin now for diabetes, not so easy. At least both of her kids are doing well at this point 🙂 No need for me to even stop and count my blessings — the only discontent I have is with my own slowness!
Happy New Year to you, too Christine 🙂
That is a raw deal – she is lucky to have you and friends like you to help her through all of that!
Another huge fan of that FAB Ultra Repair Lip Therapy! I got it a while ago in a kit, forgot about it, then dug it out of my stash when I ran out of my regular lip balm, now I’m totally hooked. Leaves my lips pillowy soft and plump, beats every lip balm I’ve tried by a mile
There are some others that I also like — Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Treatment, Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask, and Hourglass N° 28 Lip Treatment Oil — but the FAB one is excellent, and less expensive!
I forgot it was Friday already!
Haul: very little. I have a wish list of things from Sephora (mostly skin care stuff) but I want to wait to 2017 so the purchases will count toward the upcoming year’s VIB status. I did pick up another bottle of LUSH Rose Jam shower gel. I got a bottle in my Xmas stocking and as this is an LE product, I wanted to get a “back up” while it was still available.
Weekend plans: gym today (I’m still procrastinating – I should have been and returned home already); dinner out with the kids, perhaps, if we can all get our schedules in sync, watching some old fave tv shows with our youngest while he’s home; getting ready for a nice, quiet New Years.
Resolutions: try to work out more regularly and also eat so I lower my cholesterol (it’s still in the normal range but toward the higher end of “acceptable”). I blame my love of cheese!
You and me both, Mariella! That has happened for the last three weeks — I’m like, “Wait, what? It’s Friday?!”
Have a great new year!
I caved and ordered the Too Faced Peach palette. Swore I wouldn’t but obviously I have no self-control 🙂 Also ordered another tube of Korres Wild Rose Exfoliating Cleanser since I am almost out.
I hope you love the new palette, Donna!
Haul: finally used my ulta points plus the 20% off! I got: a new boar bristle brush, 2 Real Techniques shading brushes, Tree Hut shea sugar scrub, Tree Hut salt soak, manicure sticks, foam tipped applicators, and a nail clipper.
Weekend Plans: start painting the bathroom! Maybe go to a NYE party at a friend’s house.
Non-beauty resolutions: we’re going on a family vacation to Hawaii in Feb 2018, so my resolutions are to save enough money for us to fly first class and get my workout routine back on schedule so I’m in shape enough for hiking and swimming.
Nice! I used mine on the last day possible too, lol!
Happy new year, Alice!
Haul: Went to Sephora with the Christmas gift cards and picked up:
– Clinique Honey Holiday Eye palette which is pretty but no pigment and bulky, going back tomorrow.
– Becca Cheek Mouse on sale but I’d rather have a regular highlighter so that too is going back.
– NARS velvet lip glide in Le Palace
– Kat Von D Lock It Concealer in deep which is a bit too dark but I’m ok with that.
Went to Target and found
– Revlon lip glosses on sale for like $2.50 so I grabbed two, I like them for when I’m in the gym and just relaxing at home
– Maybelline mascara in black ruby on sale.
Went in F21 and got their liquid lipstick in a dark purple for $3.50 and it is actually pretty darn great for the price.
Picked up a Wet-n-Wild blush on sale at Walgreens by chance lol. Totally forgot that I have it until writing about it now. LOL
-OH and I FINALLY picked up a MUFE lipstick in a nice cream orange (C406 I think) sooo pretty. I totally love the new design. It actually is really similar to the NARS Le Palace color.
Oh and I got some Elf setting spray at Target too, I can’t really afford the UD one I wanted so I tried a cheaper brand and it’s okie doke!
I went into my local beauty store and grabbed a black Nicka K lipstick, I love Nicka K, it’s cheap but with a nice quality. And I picked up some lip liners. I love NICKA K lip liners, honestly they are bad arse for the price!
The new ZARA store in the Mall of America is a fav and they had a sale so I snagged two items I’d been wanting but wouldn’t buy at full price
•Weekend plans: Nothing really. I’m tired of NYE partying so it’s all about my son. He’s 14 and his friends are planning a lil get together and I’m almost 8000% sure a few of them will want to stay over 🙁 UGH but ok well. I plan on Netflixing and maybe going through my makeup as I just went through my lipsticks last night and found 20 expired ones, expired by a LOT. And I most definitely can say that I may be asleep when the ball drops.
•Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty!) for 2017?: I don’t do resolutions.
I have never heard of Nicka K before! Thank you for the recs!
How do you like the new MUFE lipstick formula?
My husband and I haven’t made it to midnight for a few years, LOL! Happy new year, Mo!
Nicka K is nice. I’ve tried a few things and has never neen disappointed, I even use the concealer (looks like LA Girl Pro ones). The lipsticks are pigmented and creamy or matte and not too drying. The liners are creamy but not messy. Some colors could be more pigmented but overall pretty good.
MUFE new formula is lovely. The creamy is soooooo soft, long lasting and non drying.
Have you tried Clinique liquid lipsticks yet Christine? I don’t remember a review on them…they are pretty nice. Soft, long lasting, a bit tacky at first but not Huda Beauty tacky and pigmented. Snagged two of those.
New Years is now js another day for me lol. Nothing special.
I want to say I might have purchased a few of the Clinique ones, but I am not sure – it is possible I did not (I don’t recall photographing/swatching, that’s for sure). I wasn’t too impressed by their lipsticks in the Pop range, so I might have skipped since you know, I need more lip products to swatch like a hole in the head 😉
Good to hear that they are nicer than I thought!
Oh, never heard of Nicka K before. Thanks for the suggestions. Will check them out!
Haul: I didn’t buy any makeup this Boxing Day can you believe it? Woohoo! Out of all beauty sales, I only stocked up some Kiehl’s for 20% off, as it never goes on sale in my country besides Christmas. So I purchased amino acid shampoo and conditioner (500ml x4), a super size ultra facial cream (125ml), and a liter (yes, 1000ml) of creme de corp.
Weekend plans: Catching up with Downton Abbey before they leave Netflix after 31st. I only started watching the show from episode 1 since my holiday started, now I have a few more left to go tomorrow. We don’t have plans for NYE or the day after, so just home accompanying the cats (seriously the most annoying time of the year for them because of overly excited humans and their loud crackers and fireworks).
Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty!) for 2017?: Buying our first apartment. So many procedures to go and so complicated, especially as expats. We have our first viewing next week already.
Nice job, Roxi! 🙂 What did you stock up on from Kiehl’s?
Happy new year and congrats on the upcoming apartment purchase!
Such a good boy! And patient, too! ?
Haul: Just one thing that I actually have that’s here: MAC x Selena Fotos y Recuerdos eyeshadow, looks very vibrant over primer! But over bare skin? Nah. Also have stuff on its way. MAC x Selena Bidi Bidi Bom Bom and two Vamplify’s, Smart Aleck and Tuned In. From Sephora, UD Electric Palette and Sephora’s Cherry Blossom lipgloss to use as a sheer something to moisten up a few dryer lipsticks. It also is sending my a Dr. Dennis Gross retexturing kit.
Weekend plans: My usual. Hair, nails, meeting on Sunday. Plus , some shopping. Food, and a trip to Sephora this afternoon for more Origins GinZing eye cream, and probably other skincare stuff? Thinking of getting that Egg Cream kit on sale.
Have you made any (non-beauty) resolutions for 2017? Nope. I never make any, though. I just strive to do better each and every day. Basically, we’re all just works in progress. Therefore, I just take things one day at a time while still making some outline of what I’d like to accomplish goal wise.
As my poor brain is still only half awake, I totally forgot to wish you and your family a truly wonderful time together over this weekend! Enjoy your time together and just make happy memories! ?
Yay! I’m glad you were able to get more MAC x Selena goodies 🙂 It was great to see MAC do a real restock!
Happy new year!
Haul: Coloured Raine Queen of Hearts Palette, Coloured Raine single shadows in Bay Breeze, Forbidden, Side of Olives, Unexpected and Who Me.
Weekend Plans: I try never to go anywhere on NYE as places can be crazy and I want to make sure that I am alive to ring in the new year. Having said that, living in rural Montana, there isn’t much going on so I think I will stay home and celebrate with my grandchildren who are four legged and love carrots. I have a few deer that live pretty much around my house and I keep a salt block for them through the winter. It keeps them off the highway and running the chance of getting hit and potentially causing accidents.
New Year resolutions: None really. I have never made resolutions but this year I am going to try and maintain a low buy on makeup and plan to purchase only products that will really work for me and that I need. We’ll see how long that lasts.
Ah! Can’t wait for you get your Coloured Raine order, Deborah! Hope it lives up to expectations!
Haul: I got NARS Rigel, My Sephora Play box finally got here, and a few samples in with the shadow.
Plans: None, really. I want to clean and maybe take Elroy out if it’s warm enough. It may snow this weekend so I might be shit out of luck. I should really start cleaning.
Resolutions: I’m setting a few intentions this year: I want to get back into Pilates. I need to continue with my better self-care practices because I’ve been slipping again. Water consumption needs to go up. Even though this will be a busy year, I’d like to travel. I’m not sure how this will all pan out as we have to move this year again and my husband will be looking for a job. Gonna be another rough year but I hope and pray it’s going to be better than the last year. I also need to go through my massive sample collection and find out what I’m keeping/testing and what I’m giving away. That will probably be the first thing I do.
Self-care is important! I’m glad you’ll be trying to take better care of yourself in the next year. That’s definitely something I need to work on, too 🙂
Your husband is getting out of the service? Congratulations! Job hunt? Good luck to him. In my area, you can’t get a cop or fire gig, without service, even if you are a woman. Glad some jobs are like that.
Haul: (Christmas Haul)
-Koh Gen Do Aqua foundation in 012. I’ve never had a foundation shade match me as perfectly as this does! People thought I wasn’t even wearing makeup with this on.
-Burberry Pale Barley eyeshadow. It’s pretty, but I’ve found I need to spritz my brush with some Fix+ first due to an extremely powdery texture that leads to more fallout that I’d like. Wet, it’s a dream.
-Clinique Moisture surge moisturizer. I’m excited about this because I have the eye cream that matches, already. It’s light, so it’ll be good for daytime wear.
-Marc Jacobs sheer gel lipstick in Anais. This has been sold out in my local Sephora for months, so I was so happy to see this little baby tucked inside a very exciting set of wire cutters and work gloves. Oh, dads. They give the most useful of presents.
– Lorac lipliner in CEO (dusty rose) It’s an extrememlly professional color, so the name is apt.
– Giorgio Armani Eccentrico Mascara. This is my first high end mascara I’ve ever gotten, samples aside. At first use, I was rather unimpressed. After using it a few more times, I have fallen in love. I’m not sure if the bottle needed to clump up a bit more or something, but it’s phenomenal mascara.
– THREE! 3 Beauty Blenders. I guess this is one of the only things I specifically asked for when my family members asked me what I wanted for Christmas. I told my mom a more specific list, but I guess I told everyone else “beauty blender.” On that note, I came dangerously close to my boyfriend buying me a real blender. Small misunderstanding, haha!
Weekend plans: Do as little as possible and then prepare for returning to work on Tuesday.
Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty!) for 2017?: I want to move more. More walking, more activity, etc. I have a really full plate and am working so hard most of the time that by the time I’m done, it’s either bedtime, or past when I should’ve gone to bed.
I have heard great things about the Koh Gen Do foundation! How would you describe the formula?
Happy new year!
Going for KGD myself, for a plethora of reasons. Getting the sample set is key, and well worth the small price tag. Did you see the sidebar that tells which shade Jake Gyllenhall wears in whatever movie? If they can put it on men, it can’t look very foundation-y. Had to laugh.
Haul: I didn’t do that well resisting temptation this week. I went crazy with impulse purchases at Ulta. I bought the TF Sweet Peach palette, Clinique Cheek Pop in Fig Pop and Chubby Stick in Whole Lotta Honey, a Real Techniques eye crease and base shadow brush, L’oreal Infallible Lip Paint in Nude Fishnet (which is basically invisible on my eyes) and another Infallible Lip Paint in Nude Star. I also made a Mac Selena collection order which hasn’t shown up yet.
Weekend plans: None! I like spending NYE by having a quiet night at home.
Resolutions for 2017: Save money and lose a significant amount of weight. I have already gotten started on both in the last couple months, but am looking to continue to buckle down on both fronts with the New Year starting.
How do you like the Infallible Lip Paints?
Happy new year! Congrats on the weight loss! Keep up the good work!!
Haul: Waiting for my MAC Look in a Boxes to get here (ordered and mentioned in last weeks free for haul).
Weekend plans: Cooking, cleaning, meeting with a decorator, nails and a facial, and if there is time I am starting my de-stash (to be done by Jan. 31)! Honestly I’ve got everything so organized that I think it will be just a sweep through, walking around with my basket and dropping things in, it’ll maybe take 30 minutes at this point but it’s that time of year that I do a more thourough sweep to make sure I’ve got everything weeded out until my next de-cluttering in June.
Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty) for 2017?
1. I’m starting a 60 day paleo cleanse or something or other on January 8th (the one from Practical Paleo), and hope to keep up the good eating habits after that. It’s so easy to have a bite of this here, a spoon of that there and next thing you know you’re only buying for those kinds of meals. I eat well and I’m a good cook, I just need to get back on the wagon.
2. Backyard project/landscaping to resume once the weather gets a bit more temperate.
3. Finish decorating the house (finally)!
I love how organized you are with your destashing/decluttering, Pearl! That is awesome.
Good luck on changing your eating habits! It is soooo hard!
Thank you! Happy New Year 🙂
Haul: Some Lush bath bombs from the sale. I got 8 but paid for 4. I got Chanel Mediterranee from EBay as well as a Ralph Lauren wool blazer that is used but in great condition.
Weekend plans: Take down the tree, clear off a shelving unit so we have space for other things.
Do you have resolutions for 2017?: Get help for my depression and complex PTSD, lose weight, learn how to drive, and get a new job.
Nice! Do you use one per bath or do you break yours up?
Happy new year! I wish you all the luck finding the right tools to help you with your goals, especially to help you feel better mentally!
Mellon looks so cute, waiting to delve into his Christmas presents…
Haul: La Roche Posay night time moisturiser and serum (all on sale); L’Occitane sets – love their hand creams; Clarins Super Restorative range, Natio Spa Cleansers; Clarins Joli Rouge lipsticks in Fig and Red Terra (massive sale) and back ups of Physicians Formula Argon Oil.
Weekend Plans: We always have the extended family over for a BIG New Year’s Day lunch on Sunday. Fortunately the weather has cooled down (it has been searingly hot for the past week) so it will be easier to cook. A big BBQ with lots of different salads. So I am doing most of the prep today.
Non Beauty New Year’s Resolution: To declutter our large house; install a better air conditioning unit and travel a little more.
I hope you have a really enjoyable week with your family Christine and get to relax.
Have a wonderful New Year and thank you so much for the hard work you put into this blog. We really appreciate it.
Thank you! I was able to write some of my posts in advance, so I don’t have to be quite as chained to my desk each day, lol 😉
Awesome haul, Genevieve! A lot of nice skincare there.
Happy new year! 🙂
Haul: Christmas — I didn’t get a ton of beauty this year. I got a 3.4 oz bottle of Tom Ford Black Orchid (LOVE), and Morphe 35S and 35U palettes.
Weekend plans: I’ve been sick the last few days, so recovery. lol We never go out for New Year’s, anyway.
Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty!) for 2017?: I don’t make New Year’s Resolutions.
Black Orchid is a beautiful scent! 🙂
Feel better, Rachel!
Happy new year!
Haul: MAC X Selena stuff- all three lipsticks and the purple “Selena” eyeshadow. I also got some candles and some shirts in after-Christmas sales.
Weekend plans: Try to relax?
Do you have any resolutions (non-beauty!) for 2017?: Not really. For the last 5 years my resolution was to get SOME form of diagnosis or treatment, but I’ve given up on that happening.
Here’s hoping that it’s one of those situations where when you give up, the answer presents itself 🙂
Have a great NYE, Anne!
Haul: Only a few things recently, although three of them are liquid foundations – Kat Von D Lock-It Foundation in Light 41, Marc Jacobs Re(marc)able Foundation in Ivory Light and Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Water Foundation in Fair Neutral. I’m hoping to fall in love with at least one of them!
I also repurchased the Bobbi Brown Skin Weightless Powder Foundation in Alabaster to replace my finished one. This is my third one and it’s definitely my favourite powder foundation! I totally recommend it. ?
Weekend plans: Just having a quiet weekend with my parents to celebrate the New Year. No plans really other than that. I’ll be doing a lot of cooking and baking in advance tomorrow so I’ll be somewhat busy.
New Year resolution: To lose weight. Due to medication I’m on I’ve put on far too much weight but this is the year it has to go. It’ll be tough but it needs to happen for the sake of my physical and mental well-being. So it’s healthy eating and the gym for me!
Being close to so many new (and good) restaurants has made my weight go up 🙁 I’m with all of you on wanting to lose weight. Do you have any specifics on how you’re going to start?
No beauty for me this week; my only new purchase was a new lightweight Patagonia jacket and hubby bought me two new hats, which worked out well as we got caught in a decent snowstorm when we were up in Vermont. I was nice and toasty cleaning off the cars and it’s amazingly light. Worth the cost for sure.
Weekend plans: finishing up our visit with the in-laws and eating as much Korean food as possible before we go. I’m ready to get home though; firm guest beds and rheumatoid arthritis dong mix. Thank goodness for pain meds!
I don’t do New Years resolutions; no one ever sticks to them. I’d rather try to make slower but more long-term adjustments that I can maintain.
Korean food is delicious!
That is probably the worst about traveling – it can be tough to relax or sleep well when it’s not your bed!
Agreed – on the food and the bed! We’ll be at 13 days by the time we head home. The homemade food is to die for though. You’ll never starve with my MIL.
Haul:
I placed a pretty big elf order!!
I got A mascara, “Bronzed beauty” set, Moisturizing foundation stick, All about eyes kit, Get glowing Kit, smudge pot (One of the few cream shadows that last on me!) HD Mattifying foundation, Makeup mist and set, and my beloved lip exfoliator!!
I also bought my first acrylic makeup organizer!!!!! I’m SO happy with it!!
Weekend plans: I am going to a party with a bunch of my brother and I’s friends!!! And he’s the DD. So I’m bringing some wine to bring in the new year, while being surrounded by good friends!!
Non beauty new year resolutions: I want to overhaul my bedroom, I can’t open my door all the way!! So I want to completely clean it.
And once I’m cleared for it, after my tumor is removed (Which!! My surgery to remove my tumor is in FIFTEEN DAYS!! EEP!) I want to start going back to the gym and lifting weights again!!
Best wishes for your upcoming surgery + recovery, Shannon! I know your friends and family will take great care of you!
Good luck for your surgery! Xx
Haul: Nothing, apart from Xmas presents (no beauty products as it would be deemed as ‘enabling’ me ?). But as we came into a bit of money I decided to splurge on a Beautylish beauty bag. I loved mine last year, it was amazing. I got a Wayne Goss eye brush, Kevyn Aucoin bronzer, Anastasia Self Made palette to note a few. On Xmas Day my M&S beauty calendar gave me a half size Shay & Blue Atropa Belladonna and I love it. It’s quite a sexy perfume but dries down warm and spicy.
Plans for weekend: Travelling back home. The weather should be better than when we travelled up! We’re not going out on Hogmanay, my daughter needs looked after and we can’t be bothered to go. Need the energy for travelling the next day anyway.
Resolutions for the year to come: I don’t make resolutions but what I aim to do this coming year is to get settled in the town we’ve moved to, get to know the area and get my daughter enrolled in a nursery as she’s turning 3. I also hope that my health will improve further as I now have my own supplies of vitamin b12. 3 monthly injections weren’t cutting it at all and it was affecting my memory, focus, breathing, strength, ability to be active etc. That is returning very slowly and I am so, so grateful.
I wish you the very best in the new year, Claire! Hopefully your health continues to improve dramatically now that you have your own supply of B12!
Bought nothing this week.
A quiet weekend with family.
I will be on a low buy this next year, also my annual resolution to lose 1 pound. I’m starting the 7 day weight loss cleanse starting Monday, so we’ll see how that goes.
Enjoy your time with family, Debbie!