Grey Area by Sally Hansen

Grey Area by Sally Hansen 

Frankly speaking, I was quiet surprised by this nail polish. I picked it up at Walmart for a whopping $2.49 and my expectations weren't that high because I knew I wasn't paying very much for this polish. It sat in my nail polish drawer for a number of months and I brought it out recently as the weather is starting to change, Autumn is nearing and I love grey tones for the cooler months.

Lo and behold it was the a great purchase because the formula on this polish was superb. Why hasn't anyone told me this??? LADIES !!! Have I not been paying attention or what?

So my thoughts are this, it was a wonderful polish that exceeded my expectations because with one coat I could have walked away and called it a day... but ... I waited around anticipating for something to go wrong. Nothing did and I added an additional coat just to be on the safe side. It was a lovely grey with a blue/purple under tone. As I mentioned, it was extremely smooth to apply, I didn't have any issues with clumping, streaking etc. It lasted roughly 4 days and although it didn't chip, the tips were starting to fade as if they were being rubbed off.

I'll be looking for other colours in this range. I've looked at the Walmart near me a few times and in passing no other colour has really caught my eye.

Do you have any colour suggestions I watch out for? I'm leaving behind the corals and pinks as Summer slowly slips away but would like to hear of some red/burgundy/mauve shades you might recommend.

Until next time...
Happy polishing


Erin

16 by 2016

I'm having a lot of fun finishing up products and I secretly give myself a high five every time I use something up.

It's been quite the challenge to really committee to completing products before wanting to jump in and start something new. With that being said I'm giving myself another test and have decided to finish 16 products by 2016. Spoiler ... I have 3 lip sticks and 2 face makes in this challenge!

Take a look at what I plan to use up this Fall...

And I'd love to hear if you are up for the challenge too!!!!!

5 Things to do/try/buy ~ Eric Leonard

Eric is a lovely soul I have had the pleasure of knowing for many years ... think elementary days. He has a wonderful heart and superb style. He's kind, caring, hilarious and charming. Traits that cause him to have a tremendous amount of friends and sidekicks. Eric is our "Kevin Bacon", he knows everyone and can easily relate them within 6 degrees of separation. 

I couldn't think of a better guy to share his perspective on the "5 Things to do/try/buy" mini series. I hope you enjoy Eric's recommendations and encourage you all to practice what he preaches ... invest time in your life!

Meet Eric.

1. Gentlemen… Invest in a suit.  A classic, well-tailored suit should be a staple in every man’s wardrobe.  Quite often men will not take the time to shop for a suit (or any clothes for that matter), but the reality is that suit shopping is actually a lot of fun.  Specialty suit stores are dedicated to helping men look and feel great in a suit, and can help ease the overwhelming feeling of buying the perfect suit.  A classic black suit is versatile and can be worn for many different functions.  Personally, I prefer the look of a navy blue suit, which is just as versatile.  A classic, well-tailored suit will last you for years and you’ll look and feel great when you wear it during many of life’s memorable moments!  Make sure your suit has clean lines and fits you in the right spots – this will ensure it doesn’t look like you’re wearing dad’s suit.  Many of the men’s chain stores for suits can help you with your fittings and finding the right one.  Don't be afraid to look for an independent suit store as well.  You might end up paying a little extra for a perfectly tailored suit, but it’s a smart investment.

2  “Don’t buy things, buy experiences”.  Recently I’ve heard and seen this quote several times and at face value, it makes sense but when you spend a few minutes and actually think about it, it’s an incredibly powerful mantra to hold.  In the Spring my partner and I traveled through Europe and on the last evening of our trip, we were sitting on a patio in Lisbon Portugal, eating a beautiful meal, drinking a bottle of vinho verde (exclusive wine to the Portugal region), while listening to a man play the cello – that was the first time I really saw the beauty of an experience versus a material thing.  I will certainly not be able to ever re-create that specific experience, or the trip for that matter, but it is a beautiful memory that I will carry with me forever.  So for me, I would much rather do something like travel with loved ones, go on an adventure, or visit and share laughs with friends, which creates lasting experiences and memories… something that is much more valuable than ‘things’.  You certainly don’t have to travel all over the world to make lasting experiences (although you do make some pretty amazing memories traveling the world), so I encourage you to make as many lasting memories as you can! 

3. Go back to school!  When I was fresh out of high school I went to university because it was the thing to do.  After two years of enrollment I decided to… ok, I was ‘invited to’ leave university for a year.  I was young and excelled in going to the pub and not so much to class, and I actually ended up taking longer than a year off.  I have since gone back to university and am taking classes part-time while I work full-time.  Although my weeks are hectic with work, school, homework, etc., I love learning a subject that I am passionate about.  If you are ever hesitant about going back to school… DON’T BE!  If you are in a position that you can do it, you should.  Life long learning is an amazing thing, and no one can ever take away your education and the knowledge you obtain – no matter how old you are.

4.  Learn about who you are.  I’ve taken an interest in the last little while in genealogy and ancestry.  I won’t say that I’ve taken it up as a full on hobby, but I have been casually tracing some of my roots.  I have one set of grandparents left living, so I am learning as much from them as I can – I can trace back to the 1600’s and ancestors in France and apparently have lineage to Spanish royalty.  Regrettably, I didn’t have much of an interest in genealogy while my other grandparents were living and therefore didn’t pick their brains about our ancestry as much as I would have liked to.   Fortunately my grandfather did document lineage tracing my 3x great grandfather back to Ireland, providing great framework for me to pick up where he left off.  I think it’s so important for us to know where we came from.  If you have grandparents you can discuss your lineage with, you should – it’s so neat to learn about what our ancestors were like and where we came from.  If you don’t have a living grandparent to talk to, or a documented family tree, the Internet is full of great tools and resources for you to start learning about who you are.  

5- Grow your own veggies.  I do not claim to be any sort of a gardener, or green thumb, but growing your own veggies is a lot of fun.  You don’t need hectares of land to grow a small veggie garden.  It took me a few summers of trial and error to figure out which veggies I preferred to grow.  But as long as you have a small space you can convert into a garden, you enjoy being outside, and you have some patience, then you’re all set.  There is nothing nicer than when you’re making dinner, to simply run outside and pick whichever fresh veggies from your garden you need.  One year I planted a full bed of beets, which I used for pickling – a great harvest that lasted for a whole year!  This year I only planted a small herb garden, some peas, and radishes; smaller than years before, but equally as enjoyable.  Although the dreaded winter season is right around the corner, take some time and decide which veggies you would like to plant next season – think about what you and your family make for dinner, snacks, preserves, etc., and consider that when planting your garden.  Enjoy!

~ Eric, these are all wonderful suggestions. Each one I was able to relate to and enjoyed reminiscing. 
When Adam and I got married he wore a tux, but shortly after he purchased a suit, had it tailored and ... wow, what a difference. I much prefer a fitted suit and wish we had considered it for our wedding. 
Going back to school at any age is a great opportunity to invest in your education. It took me a few years longer as well but I'm proud to say I hold a University degree and a diploma from College. I'm most proud on my dad, who at 50 received his first degree/Masters then went on to get another Masters a few years later. Life experience matched with education is profound schooling. 
My grandfather just gave me a box of old pictures that trace back to the 1800's. This winter I plan to take some time and uncover who my relatives are and how "we" came to live in Atlantic Canada. 
Thanks again for sharing Eric!

Results ~ Finish 5 by summer's end

Just over two months ago, June 25th to be exact, I posted a video showing 5 products I wanted to use up before the end of Summer. I figured I'd try to have them finished by the end of August so here are the results...

2 things to point out first ...
1~ it takes commitment to work away at products knowing you have more you want to use and try.
2~ It feels damn good to finish a product ... note to self to STOP hoarding!!!

CELEBRATE !!!

Falling in Love by Philosophy is one of my scents ever! I will repurchase this over and over as I really enjoy the blend of vanilla, soft floras and ripe berries. It's such a feminine scent that lingers yet it is not over powering. I was happy to use this every few days and although a little sad I finished it I know I will being using it again soon.

Rating: 5/5 and will repurchase
Completed 

Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask by FAB is a great mask if you are looking to restore moisture in your face. When I started this mini challenge I didn't think about the effectiveness and what I needed in the products I choose. This mask was neglected because I was in no need of extra moisture during the summer months. I really like this mask and what it does to smooth and nourish my skin. I highly recommend this First Aid Beauty mask as it is gentle, calming and has a faint vanilla/oatmeal scent.  

Rating: 5/5 and will repurchase
Did not complete

Turkish Delight by LUSH was a really nice in shower moisturizer. It has a present rose smell as it is infused with Turkish rose and other essential oils. The product is quite creamy and left my body feeling extremely soft, moisturized and fragrant. I'd like to try the African Paradise body smoothie next as it has a more tropical scent. 

Rating: 4/5 and will repurchase
Completed

Purity by Philosophy is a simple facial cleanser that took me 2 years to finish!!! No I didn't use it consistently, however I've never been so glad to finish a product as I was when I finished this. It did the job of cleaning my face, never irritated my skin and foamed nicely. I was not a fan of the packaging as the product was a thicker gel consistency and I would have to squeeze with all my might to get the product out. At the end of the day I had a dance party when I finally finished this product. I've been ready to move on 507 days ago!!!

Rating: 3/5 will not repurchase
Completed ... HALLELUJAH 

My reaction when I finished Purity

French Lavender and Honey by BBW is a thick cream that doesn't leave a sticky feeling on your skin for long and is non greasy.  So I was happy with this lotion and was able to find use for it even in the warm weeks of summer. The smell is beautiful and the formula left my body feeling rich with moisture.

Rating: 3.5/5 will repurchase

Completed

So there you have it, I completely finished 4/5 products and when all said and done, it's a satisfying feeling knowing your money wasn't wasted. I have a lot more beauty products to get through so stay turned for my next challenge.

YouTube Video

Revlon Colorstay in "Up The Ante"

So it seems that I've been on a purple kick as of lately. I'd always considered purple to be one of my favourite colours until I had a DIY wedding and purple was one of my main colours... I hated purple for a good while after!!!

The thought of purple

But it is back on my favoured list and I've been using the colour as a statement on my nails. "Up the Ante" by Revlon is one of the Colorstay Gel Envy formulas. I've had this polish for a number of months now and every time I wear it, I'm reminded that I'm a big fan of this formula. The polish is meant to emulate gel nail polishes, however there is no need of  UV or LED lamps. I usually get 5-7 days wear out of this polish and as an added bonus it is easily removable as well.

The colour is a warm pink-purple-fuchsia blend that wears beautifully this time of year. I enjoy this formula only toes because of the staying power. The formula is thick and if precise you could get away with one coat. I never do more than two coats and at no time have I come across this polish streaking. My only gripe is that because of the thickness it takes a little longer to dry. But the end results are true to the claims of nails that mimic those of gel. Gel Envy polish come in a handful of colours and price range from $6.99 - $8.99 Cdn.

Have you picked up any of the Revlon Colorstay polishes? Thoughts?



Erin

ROOTS Hair Treatment by LUSH

I was told I didn't have hair until I was three years old, well that's my mom's version anyway. She reminisces about my youth and claims she was fearful I'd be heading off to school ... BALD! She can be known to be a bit of a story teller but sadly she is not far from the truth on this one. All my life I've had fine hair. I have a lot of hair but the pieces are fine! So I'm always on the look out for products that will provide me with a boost without adding gunk or weight to my locks.

When I first found Roots, I was sold on the scent alone (peppermint/spearmint/sweet orange) but also was intrigued because of it being a hair treatment and not just a conditioner. It claims to give fantastic volume to fine/thin hair and after first use I was extremely happy with my results. I've used this product for over a year now and every time I open the jar I'm anticipating the end results... volume, shine and defined natural waves that look healthy.

How I use it: I've used this product a few different ways but my favourite way is to shampoo my hair first, allowing any old products to be washed away. Then I scoop out a hair hand full of "Roots" and apply from roots to ends, massaging it into my scalp and really working it on to my hair. Then I relax. 30 mins later I wash it out and leave it at that. I bush my hair out afterwards and allow for it to dry naturally. I tend to shower in the evenings and go to bed with damp hair, so in the mornings after I've used Roots I get a lot of volume and shine, plus the smell lingers for a few days which I'm a fan of.

Selling features: I appreciate that this product is meant to be used all over your hair, none of this just use on the ends of your hair nonsense. It's so simple to use and says exactly what it does, revitalizes fine hair. Plus, LUSH is a brand that I'm a huge supporter of. Not just because of it's ethics but because of it's diversity, practices, products and unique staff. 

"Roots" is a 5 star product in my eyes and if you aren't in need of volume then be sure to check out the other hair treatments by LUSH. I've had great luck with a number of them and suggest you give your locks some nutritious TLC too.   


Have you tried LUSH before? What are some of your go to products? Were your parents concerned you would never grow hair either?


Erin 

5 Things to do/try/buy ~ Natalie Hennessey

My next guest and I met a few months back when we moved into the neighbourhood. Oliver (my dog) is an old soul. He loves to play, wrestle and swim but majority of the time he can be found leaning against you getting his paws rubbed while quietly taking everything in.

Oliver's new best bud Huey lives next door and he is anything but "old Man". He is a fun loving Goldendoodle that has the energy and heart of 7 puppies. Huey is the sweetest friend for Oliver as he swoons him into tug-a-wars, puppy wrestling and chase. 

Puppies are great and so is Natalie, Huey's owner.

I get caught repeatedly saying " I think we were related in a former life" when I hang out with Natalie. When we aren't chatting it up about the dogs we talk about beauty, Island life, beauty, beauty and food. When we first started talking Natalie said "you should start a blog" I replied, "I seriously just started one a few months ago". We laughed. She then said "you should start a Youtube channel". I laughed and said " I just made my first video". That's not normal conversation people... there really is something special about our friendship. And what is really great is that Natalie also blogs!!! You can find her wonderful posts at nataliehennessey.blogspot.ca where she blogs about makeup, skincare and shares some great recipes along the way. And if that doesn't get you excited, Natalie posts every Monday, Wednesday and Friday which I LOVE.

Here are Natalie's "5 Things to do/try/buy" recommendations:

Huey and Natalie (heart)

1. Raise a puppy, kitten or baby companion animal. I've owned two dogs in my (short) life. My first, Maggie, we got when I was 8 years old. It's safe to say, my dad did all the work with her. After Maggie passed, I made the decision to purchase my own puppy, Huey! I prepared for months. I watched videos, read books, talked to tons of people, but when I finally brought him home, all HELL broke loose! Huey was a total handful that I would not have been able to survive without friends and family. Looking back on his first few months with me (now that he is 1 year old) I can see that it was such an amazing experience. The idea that a single person can have such an effect on the temperament and overall personality of an animal still fascinates me!

2. Try something new - as often as you can! As a child I was very anxious! I still am, and it often shows in my everyday life. But I've really gotten into the habit of trying something new as often as I can. Whether it be a new food (who knew Haddock was so good?) new adventure (driving off Island) or simply venturing out of your comfort zone with a new piece of clothing, I've really come to find that I feel much more confident in myself and my abilities.

3. Everything "Origins". I don't think I've tried an item I haven't liked from this brand. It's honestly such a great brand. The products smell amazing, work wonders on the skin and provide a nice boost of natural ingredients to any skincare routine! If you're stuck on what to try first, the GinZing line is my all-time favourite! The moisturizer can be used by anyone and the cleaners are super refreshing in the morning!

4. Make a donation to your local animal shelter. I'm a fan of giving. I'm that crazy person that loves Christmas and birthdays because I can GIVE you a gift. I buy gifts for people all year around - just because I like to! My favourite gifts to give though, are to those who need it most. After Maggie (see above) passed away, I made a donation to the Humane Society in PEI and really felt at peace for the first time since bring her to the vet. I've since been back to make a couple extra donations because it's just so nice to see animals in need find loving, forever homes.

5. Try prepping food for the week ahead. I always thought the Pinterest posts about "prepping" were ridiculous. Why would I spend an entire day in the kitchen cutting up veggies, baking granola and measuring out my favourite snacks when I could just do it as I went along? BECAUSE IT WORKS PEOPLE! About 2 weeks ago I began prepping my veggies, granola and other healthy morsels on Sunday afternoon. I can't even tell you the amount of food that has not gone to waste and the amount of veggies I'm now eating. It definitely takes commitment to spend a whole afternoon in the kitchen, but makes lunches, snacks and dinner so much easier during the week!


~ Natalie, these are great, simple and easy suggestions anyone can do. I can attest to owning a puppy, it was the best decisions Adam and I ever made and I wish I could relive those days over and over.
The GinZing line from Origins is fantastic, I love the lightweight feel of the moisturizer and it's freshness, it is a must try!!!
Adam and I have discussed that this year instead of giving gifts to family we are going to give a donation to an animal shelter. If there are people and animals in need of loving companions and my money an help bring them together, I'm in!
Prepping is a commitment but it sets you up for such great success! I'm glad it is working for you and it is a great reminder to me that I need to get myself back into the kitchen!