Fall 2021 Beauty Series – Skin Care

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When I was a young teen I washed my face with Camay soap. I don’t even remember putting a moisturizer on. I probably used hand lotion, I just don’t know. I do know that I loved Camay soap mostly because it had a cameo on it. I’ve loved cameos since I was a young girl. Show me a cameo and I want it! (I even wore White Shoulders Perfume simply because of the cameo on the bottle.) When I was about 15, my forehead broke out in little bumps. I was horrified. My mom took me to a Merle Norman boutique. We couldn’t afford much in those days and my mom splurged greatly and bought me the complete kit of face wash, toner and a moisturizer plus a bottle of pink stuff that was a mask to use once or twice a week. When I used the mask, I would hide in my room as it dried my face up like a hard shell. I always thought it looked like I had a severe burn accident on my face. When I would wash it off, my face would be red for hours. She also got me the make up. I used Merle Norman for many years. When it became too expensive while my husband was in seminary and those crazy years of zero money, I would use my favorite…Camay soap, Noxema (loved that smell) and Sea Breeze which would sting horribly. Then I would use Cover Girl make up. Aww…those were the days.

Many years later, someone invited me to a Mary Kay presentation. I loved the products and bought it all! I even signed up to sell it. I really did love the products. I was a Mary Kay consultant for 4 years and one day I just decided it wasn’t for me to selll. I’m still a consultant, but I just buy it for myself, family and friends.

I’m thinking about 5 years or so ago, I became bored with with the Mary Kay products. I love trying new things and I was always attracted to the pretty bottles and colors of other products when I was out shopping. I played around with Estee Lauder and Clinique. I always struggled with finding people that worked the counter that knew what they were talking about. It seemed they could care less what you bought and what was right for my skin. I kept trying other products though. I also tried Bobby Brown, IT and Elemis. I also have tried Rodan and Fields, which I love. Right now I am using Rodan and Fields lash booster. It really works, by the way. I am now back to using Mary Kay and I have my eye on another brand when I go through this last set.

I have another skin care set that I want to share with you. As you might have read that I love Southern Lady magazine and I have been to several of the conferences. There is a company that advertises in this magazine and at the conference this company always has a booth. I’ve been attracted to it for the way it looks and the story behind it and of course….it’s a southern company. Last year they sent me a sample set to try. I loved it. The only thing is while I was trying it out, was about the same time I went through a hard time with my health. So after I used it a few times, I set it all to the side and I just recently tried the rest of it. Click here to go to the Sapelo Skin Care site. I just love the packaging…that’s what always attracts me first to anything. The ingredients are natural and if your skin will look like the two ladies who created it….well…..it’s hard to not want to buy it all! Be sure to visit their blog as well.

I would love to hear what skin care is your favorite and if you are satisfied or looking for something new.

Now that we are in a new season and the weather is changing, this is a perfect time to make some adjustments in your skin care. If you are like me and you get bored easily, it’s a great time to try something new. I have dry skin and it gets even drier in the cooler months. I’m always looking for a moisturizer that is very moisturizing but not greasy feeling. If you use products from the department store, this is a fun time as most are offering special gifts with purchase. That is always fun. I have to be careful as I’m attracted to the beautiful colors and the special cases they offer. I’m a perfect candidate for marketing. Oh…..put a cameo on it and I’m SOLD! Or a PEARL….double SOLD.

A few years ago, a make up brand actually did their compacts of eye color and blush in sparkly cases with cameos on them. YES….I still have them…I bought several….I couldn’t stop myself!

This isn’t my actual case, I found this on Pinterest so you could get an idea of how mine looks. I have a black and a white one of two different sizes/products.

Okay, back to our topic of skin care.

Now is a good time to set your sites on the skin care you want to use through out this season. Keep everything you use in one place. Some like to set it out, especially if it’s in pretty bottles on a pretty tray. I tried that for a while, but, I like a clear counter by my sink so I now keep it all in it’s own drawer in trays.

Go through all of your products you don’t and won’t use….time to say goodbye. I know…it’s hard!

Remember how we talked about doing research? Do a study on your skin type and the products that work best for you.

There are so many books and videos on make-up applications to try. If you know someone who does their make- up really well, ask them for advice. Be sure to keep your make up brushes clean. I clean mine once a week. Let’s don’t talk about all the cute make up brushes…yes…I just bought one that has glitter in the handle….yes I did!

If you have a young daughter, be sure to teach her early the importance of taking care of her skin. Make sure she is using products designed for her skin type. Teach her proper make up application. Never ever go to bed without washing face first. That’s a bad habit to get into. Yes…I did that as a teen sometimes when I was too lazy to wash my face at night…I remember mascara on my pillow….bad girl!!!

Once you find your skin care line and make up choices, be satisfied and content. I don’t think we should worry and always think we aren’t good enough. Just have fun with it.

I really feel sorry for young girls, okay, even us older ones in how we see models in ads, social media and on t.v. who are not really real. They are airbrushed…use filters and other things to look flawless. We can easily begin comparing ourselves when our skin doesn’t look smooth as silk with a beautiful glow and our lashes aren’t reaching up to our eyebrows while our lips are puffed up with the perfect shade of shiny color. The sooner we can learn to be content in who we really are, the better and easier life will be. Of course, isn’t it fun to try new things….who doesn’t want long lashes, smooth skin and puffy lips? We just have to keep our head on straight and protect our young girls from the comparison issue. How can we teach them that when we are comparing ourselves with filtered models? I know it’s a struggle!

Last but not least………You be you, everyone else is taken! Don’t take it all so serious, enjoy the process of taking care of you and finding just the right products that you love!

Previous Posts in this Fall Beauty Series:

#1 – Nail Care

#2 – Hair Care

Until next time…

Fall 2021 Beauty Series – Hair

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Our hair is one of the first things people notice. If you are like me, if your hair is not cooperating for the day, you will just feel off. Maybe that’s just a me thing.

My hair is very thick, course and dry. So, I tend to like wearing it on the shorter side and I moisturize it constantly. I so admire people who wake up in the morning and just brush their hair and then style it for the day…..mine, not so much! I’m thinking because my hair is so thick and course, after I sleep on it it looks like I was in a tornado. I’m serious….ask Jim. Many times he laughs when I talking about my plans for the day and he’s looking at my hair in amazement. There is just no helping it. That is why I wash it each morning, so I can start fresh. I’ve learned to be fast in drying and fixing my hair for the day. If I’m too fast, it shows as my hair is just not cooperating for the day.

When I go to the salon I am always wanting to try a new hairstyle. Since my hair grows fast, my style will be outgrown in a couple of weeks. I always say by the time I get the hang of my style, it’s not working any more because it has already grown out. Yes, the struggle is real. But…..I’m not complaining….I’m thankful for my hair.

Are you thankful for your hair? Regardless the color, if it’s thin or thick, dry or oily, long or short; it’s important to love your hair. That doesn’t mean you can’t try new styles or even a new shampoo. Join me in working on not complaining about our hair. By the way, I feel led to share this….if you are going to a stylist and they complain about your hair texture or type….find a new stylist.

I was taught that if you haven’t had a compliment on your hair in a couple of weeks, then it is time to change your style. This could be an issue if you are around people who just don’t ever give compliments or notice anything. But, most women when out and about will notice a great hairstyle and will almost always compliment someones hairstyle. I was in a boutique recently and I walked past a lady that was checking out. She told me she loved my hair. I told her thank you and then she said, “Who is your stylist?” I then told her that I was from out of town and she said, “oh, no!” She was a sweet lady and the funny thing was it was one of those mornings to where I rushed fixing my hair and I didn’t feel up to par. Once she asked me that, I all of the sudden felt different about my hair. Isn’t it crazy how that works? We can really be our own worst enemy sometimes, don’t you think?

Something about this lady who complimented my hair. She was a bit older than me (I think) and her hair didn’t look bad at all. She seemed unhappy with her hair. She may have been having a bad hair day and didn’t feel good about herself. When I left, I was thinking about her and I had wished that I told her that I thought her hair looked great and if she just styled it a bit different, it would look even better. Her hair was flat and if she put some fluff in it and maybe tried some product to separate it, I bet it would have been pretty. I’m not a stylist, I have my own problems and I don’t know if that would go over in telling someone how to fix their hair. All that to say….take a look at your hair, does it just need a little fluff, a little product, using a flat iron or curling iron….just try some things and see how it works out. Speaking of curing irons. I used to always use one and I bought one recently thinking I would try it out again. I never felt so awkward and what a mess I made. It’s funny how you forget something that you used years ago regularly.

Okay, enough about my hair woes. Let’s talk about some things we can do to stay on top of our game where our hair is concerned.

It’s important to have a stylist you trust and who knows your hair and what you like and don’t like. You might need to make a change in that area if you aren’t happy with the results when you leave the hair salon. When you see someone that has a great style and cut, be sure to ask who they go to and maybe you can give them a try. Try to have a regular schedule of going to your stylist; depending on how fast your hair grows it could be 4-6 weeks between visits.

Fall is a great time to try something different or new. Try stepping out of your box a little bit. Have fun with your hair.

Have you ever done any research on your face shape? If you know your face shape, you can find certain styles that would look best on you. This also goes for the frame style of your eye glasses and even hat styles. Knowing your face shape is important.

Your hair color is a big part of your color code. Have you taken your color analysis yet? This determines the colors that look great on you or age you.

There are so many shampoos, conditioners and treatments available. Take some time to research and find something that works perfectly for your hair. Remember, you are worth the extra effort to find just the right products for you. In order to be confident and comfortable in who you are….you need to know all about you. You deserve the extra effort and time. Make yourself a research project!

This is a good time to go through all of your hair products that just aren’t working and get rid of them. Clutter with all of our hair products can make getting ready a struggle sometimes. Can you tell I’m talking to myself right now? I love trying new things, so I always make sure I don’t hang on to things that just clutter up my space.

Try to make it a habit to fix your hair each morning; even if you aren’t going anywhere for the day. It will make a difference in how you feel about yourself. Plus, you never know when someone will drop by! You can ask me how I know this to be true!

This fall season, make it the one that you revive some things you’ve let go. We’ve all been in a strange time over the past year and a half and it’s time to crawl out and find you again and what makes you smile when you look in the mirror.

“I will praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14

If you are on Pinterest; make a board of hairstyles that you would love to try someday. Click here for my hairstyle board for some inspiration.

If you missed previous posts in this series, here are the links.

#1 – Nail Care

Until next time,

Fall 2021 Beauty Series – Nails

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Happy Fall! What a beautiful time of year; the changing of the weather, leaves on the trees, pumpkins, cozy blankets, delicious soups, yummy spice candles and…the list could go on and on. I just love it all, don’t you? What’s your favorite thing about fall?

As I was contemplating my new series on Beauty and Fashion, I thought I would just write each day this week on a different topic that hopefully will be of interest to you. To me, fall is like a fresh start. Really each new season is….it’s a good time to make some changes in our wardrobe, our style, freshen up our makeup with a few changes and of course how can we not talk about the beautiful styles and colors for fashion this season. Let’s get started and have some fun.

I’ll be doing the challenges along with you each day as well. I’m always looking for new ideas and trying new things. I never want to stop learning and improving in areas that need improving…….or just something fresh….I love change, can you tell?

How are your nails looking?

A few years ago, I had acrylic nails. I always loved how they looked with such beautiful colors and it would last forever. I wore them medium length. Long enough to still be able to do things around the house and work on my computer. I wore rubber gloves when I cleaned and washed dishes. Which, rubber gloves are always a good idea when cleaning and washing dishes. After a few years, I decided to give them up. I didn’t enjoy the process, I only loved the outcome. Sitting there for an hour or so and having that drill on my nails made a nervous wreck out of me. Not to mention the expense. What a nightmare my real nails were after taking them off. It took a good while to get my nails healthy again. I recently tried the dip on my nails, but, I had grown used to not having to sit for so long having nails done, I just didn’t think I could go back to that. Even the scheduling time at the salon when you are going out of town, etc. was more than I wanted to do. I confirmed it just wasn’t for me anymore.

If you love having your nails done, I am so happy for you. I think they are just beautiful.

After I got my nails back in shape; it took some getting used to being careful in not breaking a nail. My nails aren’t weak and they aren’t super strong. So needless to say, to have them all one length is a miracle. About the time they are all the same length I will break one and I am one of those that has to have all my nails the same length. It’s a never ending process. I keep files around the house everywhere, so when the break happens, I can fix it immediately.

I also keep polish on my nails. I love color and I think it looks so much more put together to have color on my nails.

Fall is a great time to try some darker colors. For me, I don’t like super dark colors on shorter nails, so I go with the lighter shades of a gold, beige or bronze shade of color.

If you know your correct color code for your hair, skin and eye color, you might stay within those shades for your nails. My color code is soft, so I choose softer colors so they go with my clothing colors and skin better. (At the end of this post, I’ll have the link to determine your color code.)

Do you paint your toenails? The fall and winter is a good time to go without polish on our toes in order to let them have a rest and get healthy. But….I don’t like seeing plain toes…I have to have color. I tend to go darker on my toes if I don’t do the same color on my nails.

A good file is important. I like the glass files and an old fashioned emery board works great. Be gentle when filing, you can do some serious damage and lose the shape of your nail. Your toes should be filed straight across and your nails can have an oval or square shape to them. For me, I like the oval.

Since we are talking about our toes, we might as well take care of the bottom of our feet. If you don’t get regular pedicures, you might want to take care of the rough, dry skin on bottom of feet yourself. You will feel much better when your feet are all soft and silky. I put foot cream on my feet every morning after showering. I also have one of those pedi-eggs that takes the dry skin off. Recently, I purchased one of those grate things that the nail salons have, but, I’ve been to scared to use it….it looks pretty dangerous. I guess I could use it to grate cheese because that is exactly what it looks like. It’s been in it’s little bag since the day I got it. Yikes!

“…How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans 10:15

Hand cream is so important on your hands. With colder weather coming, it’s very important to lotion your hands on a regular basis. I keep little tubes of lotion around the house and in my purse for a quick treatment. Not to mention with us all washing our hands constantly, they need moisturizing. Hands are one of the first things to show aging, so the younger you are in getting in the habit of applying lotion to your hands the better. Make it a habit for sure.

I discovered a wonderful gel polish a few years ago. Sally Hansen gel polish and top coat is what I’ve been using for a long time now… and it comes in a few shades that I can wear. I also like the polish remover that comes in little packets. They are presoaked in the solution and it just seems easier and much faster than getting it out of the bottle. By the way, this polish will last a week and sometimes longer….depends on how active I am with my hands and if I remember those gloves when I wash dishes. )

As you can see, when it comes to nails, I’m simple, but, I love a beautiful nail color and keeping my nails in shape. I don’t want to spend a lot of time on them and I don’t miss sitting at the salon at all. Every now and then I like to go for a little pampering. I’m always on the lookout for a salon that is clean, peaceful, safe, beautifully decorated and not rushed! Who me? Picky…..yes, I am. I think at 62 I can be picky, right?

I hope you are inspired to take care of your nails and try out a new beautiful fall color. You are worth it! It’s the little things.

I hope you will give yourself a good pedicure and manicure, either yourself or at the salon.

Choose a nice fall color that goes with your color code.

While you are at it, clean out your polish drawer or however you store your things. I have a drawer that is just for polish and all the tools, etc. I love polish, so I have to go through it every now and then and get rid of what I’m not going to use and take inventory of needed items. Anyone want a foot grater? Ouch!!!

Find a foot and hand lotion you love and keep plenty and get in the habit of using them regularly.

Start using gloves to clean and wash dishes with. I know it feels weird at first, but you will get used to it.

If your nails chip… time to fix it asap. This is one I have to work on a lot!

I found this precious poem!

Her Hands

Her hands held me gently from the day I took my first breath. Her hands helped to guide me as I took my first step. Her hands held me close when the tears would start to fall. Her hands were quick to show me that she would take care of it all. Her hands were there to brush my hair, or straighten a wayward bow. Her hands were often there to comfort the hurt that didn’t always show. Her hands helped hold the stars in place, and encourage me to reach. Her hands would clap and cheer and praise when I captured them at length. Her hands would also push me, though not down or in harm’s way. Her hands would punctuate the words, just do what I say. Her hands sometimes had to discipline, to help bend this young tree. Her hands would shape and mold me into all she knew I could be. Her hands are now twisting with age and years of work, Her hand now needs my gentle touch to rub away the hurt. Her hands are more beautiful than anything can be. Her hands are the reason I am me. – Maggie Pittman

This is me as a little one…..thankful for a mom who who used loving hands to raise me up to be who I am today!

May our hands always be loving hands and our feet always going to share the good news.

Click here for the Color Analysis

Until next time….

Are You Up For A Fashion Challenge?

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I’m going to join in on this 3 Day Summer Outfit Challenge and I hope you will too!

Should be lot’s of fun as Shari Braendel of Fashion Meets Faith is always loads of fun wherever and whatever she is doing.

Hot summer months are easy to get in a rut and just wear the easiest thing to put on just to stay cool. Shari will have lot’s of tips of putting some outfits together that may get us out of our box a little bit and try some new ideas in our fashion for the summer.

The challenge is free, so sign up at this link:

https://fashionmeetsfaith.mykajabi.com/a/2147490480/eXtP5Cy3

Did I mention it’s FREE?

I can’t wait to see what we learn over the next three days!

Blessings and stay cool!

Friday Fashion – What’s Your Fashion Style?

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We all have certain styles we are attracted to. We also are most comfortable in wearing certain styles. Do you know what your’s is? When you get dressed for the day, do you feel comfortable and feel like “you?”

In my training as a stylist, I use 4 styles to determine someones favorite way to dress for the day. Let’s talk a bit about each one and you see which one most represents you.

  1. Pure Natural – Do you love to shop at stores like J Jill, The GAP, Old navy and similar stores. You probably love organic cotton materials and colors in the whites, beiges and more softer colors. You like simple, no fuss, just nice and clean. You are probably a Beautiful Pure Natural.
  2. Classic Modern – Talbots, Ann Taylor might be your go to store for the latest styles. You like to look sharp and crisp when you walk out the door. You probably like adding a touch of feminine touch with your simple strand of pearls or a little ruffle on your sweater. If this sounds like you, you are a Beautiful Classic Modern.
  3. Creative Original – You love shopping anywhere from a thrift shop, department store, boutique to your own closet. You love putting things together that most people would never think of putting together, but, you can put anything together and you have your own unique style. You, my friend, are a Beautiful Creative Original.
  4. Style Fashionista – When you walk into a room, more than likely you have on the latest fashion and everything goes perfectly together. You love fashion and you always want to know what is the latest trend and you make it work. You can spend lot’s of money or hardly any at all and you will still look like a Beautiful Style Fashionista.

Did any of those sound like you? If so, which one?

It’s possible more than one appeals to you, but, I’m sure one of them is your main style.

For me, someone who loves EVERYTHING…..yes, the struggle is real, I am a Style Fashionista. Since the “shut down” and no where to really go, I have noticed I have been attracted to the styles of the Classic Modern. The feminine simple style of the clothes at Talbots seem to be calling my name lately. When the world opens up again and we get to go out more, I will be able to tell more of what I will be more comfortable in.

Leave a comment and tell me which style you feel that you are and where your favorite place to shop is. If you are still struggling with coming up with your style, send me an email and we can talk about it a bit.

This is a perfect time to determine your style and get your closet ready for the upcoming Spring. Each Friday, I’ll share more fashion tips to help you along the way. Have fun!

40 Days To Fabulous!

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Hi Friends! I’ve been taking a summer break from blogging…but, I had to let you know about 40 Days To Fabulous!  I’m excited that 40 Days To Fabulous is continuing  with their third season on August 20th! You will want to sign up today! Okay, maybe you don’t get as excited as I do….you can wait….but, not too long. Registration will cut off soon!

I have loved being a member of 40 Days To Fabulous. Shari Braendel who is an author, speaker, fashionista and of course an amazing Fashion Stylist. Shari has made it her mission to share faith along with fashion. I love her message and her heart for women and I know you will too!

Today is the first day to sign up for the new season and I so hope you will join me. I’m already signed up and can’t wait for the first class.

This year is packed with some great speakers! Shari will also be sharing the latest trends in fashion and how to develop your own style. I heard that we will be making our own personal style notebook. I can’t wait to hear more about that!

If that isn’t enough! When you register, your name goes in a drawing for a $500.00 gift bag filled with books, jewelry and clothing and more.

Here’s what you get:

6 Faith Speakers with 6 life-changing lessons to lead you
closer to Jesus

1 Fashion Speaker to lead you toward confident style and beauty
this fall season

40 days of faith and fashion study guides 

6 weekly LIVE video training sessions (50 minutes each)…sessions
recorded in case you can’t join us LIVE

Guidance on how to build a personal resource titled “My Fabulous
Fashion Notebook” 

6 Weeks of becoming your very best YOU!

Energizing and encouraging private FB community like none other
Less frazzle, more freedom!

Up close and personal with well known Christian authors and
speakers to ask them questions and have community with them

If that’s not enough… EARLY BIRD BONUSES! 
Register in the next 3 days and you’ll be entered 15 TIMES to win the amazing Grab Bag Bonus Gift Pack valued at $500!!! Included are signed books from the authors, a $100 clothing piece from Natalie Attired, Jewelry and MORE more, more!!!!!….in fact, there are a total of 15 things in the Bonus pack!!!! In addition, EVERYONE who enters in the next 3 days is invited to a POWER PACKED goal setting workshop in October called Ready, Set, Shine! led by two AMAZING Military spouse leaders! 

The cost is $40.00!

Click here and register today!

I hope you will join me as we are encouraged to walk with Christ as we learn all about fashion.

My two favorite things…….Jesus and…..fashion!

What fun it will be to do this together!


Spring Fashion for 2019

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It’s Fashion Friday! Only one problem….it’s Sunday. Yes, I’m behind, so let’s get started.

Each season, Pantone sets the colors for the season and they recently released the latest for Spring/Summer 2019. They are gorgeous!

The Color of the Year is…Living Coral. This is a color that looks great on everyone.

Notice the Color Codes are labeled on each Pantone Color. If you do not know your color code, click here to find out. I am a soft, so the colors that would look best on me are, Fiesta, Jester Red, Turmeric, Living Coral, Pepper Stem, Aspen Gold and Princess Blue. Yay! I’ll be anxious to hear what you think of the colors in your color code.
The color code graphic was provided by a sister Style Coach, Sally Luebben. Visit her site here.

The styles are really fun this season. To me, it looks a bit like 70’s and 80’s. I’ll list a few things that will be popular and I’ll share more in my next fashion post.

Polo Dress, Shirtdress, Prairie Dresses, Flouncy Long Skirts, Suits, Wide-legged Pants, Trench Coats, Ruffles, Fringe, Bouncy Bows, Animal Print Shoes, Chunky Leather Sandals, Mules, Straw Hats, Headscarves, Headbands, Shell Jewelry, Statement Belts, Macrame Bags, Embellished Sunglasses…

I love trench coats and when I saw this pink trench coat in the Talbot’s catalog, I fell in love with it. Yes, I purchased it! -smile

http://www.Talbots.com

Last week, I shared with you the skin care that I was trying out. You can read about it here if you missed it.

This week, I am going to share with you the hair care products that I just purchased. I learned of the skin care that I’m using now while on a Disney Cruise last month. The spa also used a hair care brand called Kerastase. I decided to give this a try as well. I didn’t purchase on the ship, but, I ordered it online as I couldn’t find it locally. It took less than a week to be delivered which isn’t too bad. I will begin using it tomorrow and let you know how it does in a few weeks.

I have dry hair and it is also thick and coarse. I wash my hair every morning. I know everyone says that you should only wash your hair every two or three days. I’ve tried, but, I love having fresh clean hair. Maybe it’s a phobia, I’m not sure. I can’t stand the smell of stinky hair. Sometimes when I’m out and about, someone will pass me and I can tell they haven’t washed their hair in a while by the smell. Isn’t that terrible? I don’t judge, I just have such a sensitive nose. Plus……when I wake up each morning, my hair is all over the place and it stays that way. I can try to brush it down and it pops right back up. I’m guessing since it’s so thick and coarse….not sure. I’ve tried the just wetting and drying thing, but, I think I might as well wash it. All, that to say, I try to use a good shampoo for dry hair and lot’s of conditioner and hair masks.

I had to look each product up and write on the back of each bottle with a sharpie the instructions of what it is. Everything is in French. I took French in high school, but, I’m not that good. It’s a bit pricey, so it is going to have to really impress me to keep it up.

Did you see that embellished sunglasses are in style? Last year, we went to Vancouver, B.C. I bought these sunglasses simply because they were so cute! Who knew they would be in. Have to be a bit brave to wear them.

Thanks so much for being a reader of my blog. I love blogging. I’m on the quiet side and I’m always the one that listens and takes everything in. Blogging is my chance to talk (type) away without worrying that I’m intruding on someone else.

I’ll be doing a review of our Disney Cruise on my next blog post.

One more thing, fashion is fun, but, you can be as fashionable and wearing all the correct colors, but, if you don’t have the peace that you were created by an Amazing God that loves you so much, it’s all in vain. If you are wondering what I’m talking about, click here to read more.

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full and well.” Psalm 139:14


One of My Favorite Subjects; Fashion!

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I wanted to share this news one more time. I didn’t elaborate too much on my plans before as I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with it. What are you talking about Beverly?

I am now a certified “Christian Image Consultant.” I received my training and certification with Shari Braendel of Fashion Meets Faith.

Shari began in the fashion industry many years ago and was originally trained in the color coding that was popular in the 80’s. You may remember the spring, summer, fall and winter themes that were used to tell you what colors looked best on you. Shari discovered that that type of color analysis didn’t fit many people. She then developed her own system which has been a huge success. She is a sought after author, speaker and Fashion Stylist who is very knowledgeable in all things fashion! I’m very grateful to have been able to train under Shari.

I’ll share just a tiny bit to see if you are at all intrigued.

You are one of these color codes which is determined by your hair and eye color:

Soft, Light, Cool, Deep, Warm or Clear.

If you click here, you can receive a free analysis through Fashion Meets Faith. I can also assist in determining what your color code is as well. But, if you go to that link, you can find out right away.

I am also trained to help determine the best fashion style for your body type. We use the BODX system. I will share more on this in future writings on some upcoming Fashion Fridays.

According to your height, you are going to be a Glamour Girl, Movie Star or Rock Star. Hmmm…..I wonder which one you are? I’m classified as a Movie Star.

All of this knowledge is just the beginning in helping you look your very best. Lot’s of tips and tricks as well as shopping help and guidance in how to set your closet up so it is easy to get dressed each morning are just some of the things I’m able to offer.

If you are at all interested in more information that is designed just for you, feel free to email me at the link on the right side of this post. Or, just follow along on Friday’s for more tips and tricks. This will be so much fun!

By the way, my color code is the Soft category because of my dark blonde hair and green eye color. The colors that look best on me are “softer and more mellow” colors. Although, this past fall, my hair had some red in it. Wonder how that happened? hmmmm…..Anyway, with the red in my hair, I was then the Warm Color Code. I love the warm colors! After my last hair appointment, I’m back to a Soft Color Code. You just never know what I’m going to do next in the hair area!

A while back when I was teaching a ladies class, I arrived early and was getting ready for the class to begin. I felt good, refreshed and was thinking I had my stuff together. A lady came in and I said “Good Morning!” She looked at me and said, “Are you feeling okay?” I said, “Yes, I am, why?” She then said, “You look tired and you don’t look like you feel well.” After that conversation I all of the sudden thought I needed to go lay (or lie?) down. I lost the little bit of confidence that I had that morning. When I think back on that day, I was wearing a jacket that wasn’t in my color code. I’m pretty sure that might have been the problem. When we wear the colors that don’t work well with our coloring, we will look washed out, tired and even our wrinkles or dark circles pop out! Who wants that? Not me! Life is hard enough, don’t you think? -wink

Next week I will share all the Spring Trends and I’m sure you’ve heard what the color of the season is, right? Living Coral! The fabulous news is…this color looks great on everyone! I can’t wait to share more on all the latest trends for the season.

Shortly after I completed my course, I did a book review and shared more on the course. You can read about it here.

One more thing to share with you before I go.

We took our grandsons on a Disney Cruise a couple of weeks ago. Oh, my! What fun we had. I’ll share details soon, but, for now I wanted to tell you that one day I went to the spa while my Jim and the two boys were out and about sliding down the water tubes. What a beautiful spa is on the Disney Fantasy. If you are ever on that ship, you will want to visit. So, peaceful and beautiful. The staff was so friendly and kind. I’m not a huge spa person, but, I wanted to try a facial. If you have ever been on a cruise before and visited the spa, part of the deal is they will always encourage you to purchase the products that they use. The products that were used on me were the Elemis brand. I really like the way my skin felt and I’ve been wanting to try something different. I’ve used Mary Kay skincare forever and have gone back to Estee Lauder a few times. So, needless to say, I was intrigued by Elemis. Yep…..I bought it and I have loved it. I’ve used it for two weeks now and will see how my skin is when it’s gone and decide if I will want to keep it up. To me, it is a bit pricey, but, what can I say? I have dry skin and it just feels so moisturizing and good on my skin. I actually look forward to cleansing my face at night. I was told that I need to have more hydration and collagen on my skin. Here is a picture of some of the products I’m using. The Cleansing Balm is my very favorite! Love it!

That is all of my fashion news for today! Thank you for following along and be sure to sign up on the subscriber list if you would like to receive my latest post in your inbox.

Let me know what your color code is after you take the color analysis and I’m always interested in skin care. What are you using and what is your favorite?

Let’s Talk About Fashion

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Do you love fashion?

Maybe you don’t love it so much…

but, you do like to look nice and stay up to date the best you can.

I thought it would be fun to talk a bit about fashion over the next few weeks.  Trust me, I know I’m not an expert by any means, but, I do love it.  If you haven’t heard it before, here is my tiny story about me and the fashion world!

I’m sure you know my story….growing up we were extremely poor.  I guess poor is a good word. My mom raised three kiddos alone and I had an alcoholic father.  To say money and things were tight is an understatement…but, that story is for another day.  I can remember as a little girl looking at the Sear’s catalog at all the little dresses and loving everything.  To this day, I remember a black polka dot dress with a big white collar and a black bow.  I LOVED that dress and I can still see it in my mind today.

When I went in to Jr. High, my Aunt made me a set of cute tops to go with the hip hugger bell bottom jeans that I loved and of course my “waffle stomper” boots. That was before my “cowgirl” era.

I took homemaking in 7th grade and learned how to sew.  I began making a lot of my clothes.  My Aunt gave me patterns and material and I went to town. Not literally to town…I went to town, sewing up a storm.  I remember my mom using those expressions when I was growing up.

After high school I was working in an Oil and Gas office in West Texas and dreamed of going to school to become a fashion designer or merchandiser.  I eventually got a job in a department store and fell in love with everything that had to do with fashion.  I checked into Bauder Fashion College and when I found out the price, I knew it was impossible.  So, I set that dream on the back burner.  I later read that our local community college was going to offer a course on Fashion Merchandising.  I signed up immediately.  I couldn’t wait for the day that class was to begin.  The day of the class, I went to the college, parked and happily walked to my class.  As I got to the door, I noticed a sign on the door  that said, “Class Canceled Due to Lack of Interest.”  I was shocked.  “How could anyone not be interested in Fashion Merchandising!”  Again, my dream was put on the back burner.

Without going into more detail, let’s just say, “Welcome, to Beverly’s Fashion Class!”  Now that’s funny, isn’t it?  I’m sure that those that know me well, really do think that’s funny!  No worries, I’m laughing along with you.  That’s the beauty of having my own blog, I can write what I think and feel like an expert.  That’s even funnier!  Let’s get on to what I wanted to talk about today.

*Disclaimer……Trust me, I know I’m not an expert….I’m just sharing what I know!

As I was painting my nails today, I thought, “Perfect!  That’s what I’ll talk about first….Nails!”

I’ve always taken the best care of my nails as possible.  I went for many years never painting them.  I would file them and go.  As a mom, I always had my hands in something, so painting them was for special occasions.  They also would break very easy, so they were never really long.

I’m thinking about 15 years ago, I fell in love with acrylic nails.  Woohoo….beautiful nails and didn’t have to worry about chipping etc.  The main problem was….I don’t handle pain very well and each time the drill was set to my nail, I was dying inside.  I couldn’t stand the sound and when they would slip and hit my skin, I just knew I was going to lose a finger.  I will spare you the details on that, let’s just say, the lady that I went to probably hated to see me coming.  Oh, I have to share this story…..

One time, I thought I would try someone knew.  The husband of the lady that I went to regularly would do my nails every once and a while.  One particular time, he hit the side of my finger with the drill and I jumped and jerked my hand back.  He set his drill down and refused to do my nails.  I had to wait for his wife.  Yikes…if he only knew how brave I was being.  He eventually committed suicide.  I know!  Terrible!  He was a very kind man and I loved his wife.  I think he had some serious personal issues.  I hope I didn’t send him over the edge.  She was in the process of moving after the tragedy.  So….I tried a new lady at a new shop.  Oh.  My!  This lady was hilarious.  She was having all kinds of problems.  How do I know?  She was on the phone the entire time of working on my nails, yelling at whomever she was having problems with.  She used this file on my nails and took her anger out on my nails.  The skin around my nails were bleeding a bit.  She then put my finger tips in some type of alcohol.  I was on fire and couldn’t take it.  She then said “Maybe you aren’t cut out for nails.”  I said, “Maybe so.”

My career of acrylic nails was over.

I then discovered an amazing product.  Sally Hansen’s Gel.  It’s a two step process and I have been using it for about 4 years now.  Many times, the polish will stay on for almost two weeks.  Love!  It’s also very easy to take off with regular polish remover.  If you choose a polish that has glitter in it, as this one in the picture, it will take a bit more work to get the polish off.

I choose a nail color that goes with my color palette.  We all have colors that look best on us than other colors.  We will be talking about that in one of my fashion posts, too.

I also began taking the supplement, Biotin about two years ago.  Most days I forget to take it, but, I’m trusting that is why my nails are doing better.  Biotin is for hair, skin and nails.  I have very thick hair, so I don’t need it really for my hair, but, it can’t hurt, can it? We will talk hair, soon.  Do I have hair stories?  Oh, yes, I do!!!

Remember my story about my nails?  Well, I’m not much better with my toe nails.  I go to get a pedicure when I want my toesies to look really good.  I usually paint them myself, but, I love going and getting dry skin removed etc.  But…wait, there is more.  I have struggled with ingrown toenails on both of my big toes forever.  Yes!  It hurts so bad if I let my nails grow and I don’t fix them.  Yes, I could go to the doctor and get them removed, but, I may have to go on morphine just thinking about it.  I have just stayed on top of it and made sure my nails were trimmed properly.  It’s been a wild few months and I finally went to the nail salon last night and had a pedicure.  Let’s just say, IT HURT!  But, my nail tech was so good, patient and gentle.  She stopped and asked me a couple of times if I was okay.  Through my tears, I said, “yes, I’m being brave!” I will make it a point to stay on top of it better to where it won’t hurt like that again.

I have a foot cream that I use every day.  I’ve used this one for about two years and really love how it leaves my feet soft and moisturized.

The hand cream that I am using right now is by Mary Kay.

I also like using the Satin Hands set by Mary Kay about 2 or 3 times a week.  It makes my hands feel so soft after exfoliating and then applying my hand cream.  Not to mention, is smells wonderful!

There you go, that is my Fashion Talk for today.  Not too fashiony, but, you can have on a really sharp outfit and if your nails look like they’ve been caught in a cheese grater, it might take away from your image a little bit.

My Pinterest has a board with all types of nail ideas.  Click here to see.  A girl can dream, can’t she?

Do you have hand, feet and nail products that you love?  Share it with me.  I’m always ready to give something a try that works for others.

Thank you for being a reader of my blog.  If you are a subscriber, thank you!  Always know that your email address is safe.  You can always unsubscribe at any time.  Trust me, I know how it is.  I subscribe and unsubscribe from blogs regularly.  I am really loving Instagram these days and have been “hanging out” over there a lot. I usually post my blog updates, there as well.

Take care of your hands, nails and feet!

Help Me, Jesus! I have nothing to wear! – Book Review

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I’m so excited to share with you a book review of a book that I have read before and I just finished reading it for the second time.

 

If you love fashion, you will love this book. If you don’t really enjoy reading or thinking about fashion, but you want to look your best at all times, you will love this book!

 

A little backstory…

 

When I was a teen, I loved fashion and read everything I could get my hands on. I made many of my own clothes, so I spent a lot of time looking at patterns and studying different styles. At one time I had wanted to attend a school called Bauder Fashion College. I dreamed of being a fashion designer. But, that dream was short lived, as there was no way I could have ever been able to afford to go to a special school such as that. Which all in all, it really wasn’t the Lord’s plan for my life anyway. It didn’t stop me from always staying on top of fashion. Granted, as a pastor’s wife of small churches, I was fortunate to have a couple of outfits to work with. Over the years, I did the best I could on our budget to dress my family and myself.

 

I had recently reserved a spot on a cruise for my mom and I to travel to the Caribbean. This was a cruise with a group called, Cruise Chics. It is a group of Christian women who travel together. While on the cruise there would be workshops on the subject of fashion with my favorite Image Stylist, Shari Braendel.

 

I came down with a horrible cold/flu and didn’t think I should chance getting on the ship with a terrible cough. While I was resting and blowing my nose, I decided to read Shari’s book again. The information is so good; I just had to share it with you.

 

Several years ago, I had bought a book called, “Good Girls Don’t Have to Dress Bad” by Shari Braendel. I loved everything I read and called her up and asked her to come speak to the ladies of the church that I attended. She came and taught at a conference with our ladies. I loved it! She stayed in our home and what a treat she was. She was so much fun and such a godly woman. You can learn so much from women such as Shari.

 

Since that time, Shari’s book has been updated and the title has changed to, “Help Me, Jesus! I have nothing to wear!” I would encourage you to purchase this book and if you aren’t able to, hopefully, I can share enough to help you take a look at your fashion issues. I will just highlight her teachings and then if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to visit her site or maybe, just maybe, I can help out somehow. I will provide links to the various sites that will give you more information at the end of this post.

 

Are you ready? Here we go….

 

The first step is determining your body type. Shari has four categories that we will fit in. When you are in one of her workshops, Shari will ask you to think about where it is that you gain weight the most. For me, it’s my hips and thighs. Bummer…anyway, that makes me a D Body Type. If you gain in your tummy, you are a B body type. For those that gain up top, you are an O. For those that are evenly balanced and you gain evenly all over, you are an X. How easy is that! So, whatever you body type is, there are certain ways that you can dress that will balance you out so it doesn’t draw attention to those areas that you don’t want to “fluff” out. By the way, you don’t say “fat,” you use the word “fluff.” There are so many tips in this chapter; I’m thinking you need the book. Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions and I will do my best to answer.

 

Once you have your body type figured out and what styles look best on you, you will learn that you have certain colors that work best on you. In learning how to determine this, you go by your hair, skin and eye color. There are six color groups; Light, Deep, Soft, Clear, Warm and Cool. I am a Soft. Here is a sample of the color swatches that are “my colors.”

 

 

Isn’t this fun? If you want to know what you color code is, Shari has a quiz that you can take that will help you determine what that is. You can also order your own swatches. These are great to take shopping with you to help in picking the correct colors.

 

Accessories!!! My Favorite! You will find a chart that helps you in learning how to have just the right amount of accessories.

 

The next chapter deals with undergarments! After you read this, you will understand why the correct fitting of undergarments are so important. It will change your world.

 

Shari will share with you how important the correct hairstyle, skin care and makeup are.

 

You will love the chapter devoted to the topic of finding the correct jeans. If you love jeans like I do, you will appreciate this chapter!

 

Towards the end of the book, Shari will give you your marching orders to hit the mall. There is an art to shopping. You don’t want to be an impulse shopper! You want to be organized and shop on purpose. You will then have a closet full of clothes that you love and can wear.

 

The last chapter in the book deals with my very favorite; Modesty! Whew, is anyone else so tired of seeing private parts popping out everywhere? Shari shares from her heart in a gentle but straightforward way of why and how to be discreet in our dress, but yet fashionable. It is possible. You can be Miss Fashion and still be modest.   I’ll share an excerpt from Shari:

“Dressing modestly doesn’t mean being old fashioned and dressing puritan-like. What it does mean is having an attitude in dressing that reflects a respect for God, our self, and even the opposite sex. Yep, that’s it!”

 

One more:

 

“Modesty is learning how to take each style and make it respectful. Doing this will bring out the fashionista in all of you (and your daughters) by allowing you to be creative with your clothes.”

 

I hope that sparks a desire to dress in just your style of fashion and reflect who your Savior is at the same time. We didn’t even talk about the styles. You have a style personality and Shari has a name for each one. Can you guess which one you are? There is the Pure Natural, Classic Modern, Style Fashionista and the Creative Original. You will have fun finding which one you are!

 

 

Here are the links to the resources I mentioned:

 

Help Me, Jesus! I have nothing to wear! By Shari Braendel

 

Fashion Meets Faith (Shari’s site)

 

Analysis to determine your color code by Shari Braendel

 

Cruise Chics with Michele Harkins, Travel Agent

Linking my post up with A Wise Woman Builds Her Home