Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse/Matte Mousse

Makeup Review: Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse & Matte Mousse Foundations

I thought it would be fun to do a beauty review today- I must say I miss doing them and I feel like I am actually providing a service or something, anyway I hope people enjoy them!  

I have used the Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse before, and I liked it quite a bit.  It worked well for my oily/combination skin and lasted throughout most of the day.  I switched over to MAC Studio Sculpt a couple of years ago because I liked the thickness of the product, the oil controlling qualities, and it lasted for hours and hours and hours.  Seriously.  When I was working 5 jobs and had to have my foundation last from 9 in the morning until 12 at night, that MAC Studio Sculpt was a workhorse and worth every penny.  But lately money has been slim so I thought I would go back to my Maybelline drugstore staple.  Then I read an article on Beautypedia, Paula Begoun's product review website, and she gave slightly higher marks to the Liquid Mousse, so I decided to try that  instead! 

At the drugstore I looked at my color choices and settled on Classic Ivory (Light #2) and I felt that a couple of other colors would have worked as well.  I tried it immediately at home, and applied it allover with my fingers.  Then I went back in and applied a second coat over red areas and under eye circles and set with powder.  It lasted pretty well- about 6 hours- and made skin look even but still natural.  I had the same results when I applied it with a makeup sponge or foundation brush.  The only thing I didn't like was that I personally prefer a stronger product that lasts all day.  But- I think it will be perfect for the hotter days of summer, it will provide coverage but not feel like I have a mask that's sweating off my face. 

As far as the Dream Matte Mousse goes, it is a thicker product that provides a heavier coverage and doesn't look quite as natural.  I think I prefer the mousse over the liquid, but only in winter or on cooler days, and it's better for oily/combination skin, providing a matte appearance. I find the best way to apply the Matte Mousse is with a brush or a sponge, it rolls a little bit if applied with fingers. 

In conclusion, the Liquid Mousse provides a light natural coverage and is best for normal to dry skin, the Matte Mousse is a thicker coverage and best for those with oily/combination skin.  The formulas are excellent and I will be using them both in the months to come. 

Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse $8.79

Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse $8.79

Happy Day

This has been a hard week for me, I find myself feeling down for no reason and the gray skies and rain today don't help.  Lately I have been trying to put a stop to sadness and negative thoughts by realizing what I'm doing, acknowledging it, mentally stopping it, and then focusing on something productive or interesting.  So I decided to try and take my mind off sad things by having a little photo project where I would take pics of all the things that made me happy today. It's not a super exciting day, I am working and then most likely coming home and watching tv, but I wanted to capture some beautiful things that would lift my spirits and see if it helps. Here are my photos:

 

Yummy raspberry Brown Cow yogurt for breakfast. 
Love the calorically delicious cream top!  This definitely made me feel happy.

We had this delicious Voluspa persimmon candle burning at work today, and man did it smell good!  I don't usually like candles because they make me nervous but today I really enjoyed this one.  Happy for sure.

Baked potato and salad for dinner.  The bacon is the really really happy part.

This little monkey always makes me feel better. Ball o' happy fluff!

Happy Weekend!

{The perfect frenchy weekend outfit}

Plans for the weekend:

1. Work, work, work

2. Make some cookies

3. Eat Pizza

What are you guys doing?

(image via Ringo Have A Banana)

Valentine's Day Cross Stitch

I have been trying for the past two weeks to figure out some sort of cross stitch pattern for Valentine's Day gifts that I actually like, to no avail.  I think it's just the fact that the holiday is kind of inherently corny, and all the patterns are just on the grandma/country kitchen side.  Even patterns that I tried to design myself turned out lame.  Anyway I thought I would share them on here and get some feedback from everyone.

What do you think?

(Non) Thrift Score

I went thrifting today.

Did I find anything?  Only stuff that I would never allow in my home. 

Behold:

Goodwill.  Where high school art projects go to die.

 Yes, music hath charms.  But not when played by an accordian wielding hobo clown.  I'm sorry the picture is so blurry, because the way they painted that clowns face was one of the most disturbing things I've seen. 

Large sized bust of our beloved JFK.

Be careful out there kids.  You never know what you might find.

Thrift Score

Adorable robin's egg blue pitcher.

It does have the "Franciscan" logo on the bottom but I couldn't find the pattern online so I think it might be fake.  I don't mind though, I love the design and the modern shape.  I think I might have a pitcher addiction (don't tell anyone!).

Veronica M

New Job Alert!

I recently started working for a lovely clothing boutique here in Los Angeles called Veronica M.  I can't wait to show you some of the fashions, but for now, here are a couple of accessories I couldn't resist!

{gold and rhinestone diamond shaped long necklace}

{faux woven leather wallet clutch}

What's For Dinner?

Split Pea y'all.  With a dollop of creme fraiche.

This recipe was so easy it felt like I was cheating or something!  Anyway, it takes a couple hours but all you have to do is stir occasionally and enjoy the savory scent emanating from your kitchen. 

The recipe is from Orangette, one of my favorites, and even though she recommends some fancy pantsy mail order ham which I'm sure is delicious, homie don't play that.  I just bought a crap brand at the grocery and hoped for the best and it was pretty darn good!  Recipe after the break-

Breaky

My favorite breakfast in the whole world is the single serving Fage Greek yogurt that comes with the peaches on the side.  I used to be really into the honey one but that was before I tasted the peach.  Don't waste your time on the other fruit flavors, they are dreck.  It's all about the peach.  And don't waste your time on other Greek yogurts, Fage is the real deal and worth the calories.  I usually get mine at T Joes.  Yummers!

Weekend Wanderlust

What are y'all up to this weekend?

I am feeling the travel bug but I'm staying in town and working. 

Here are some things I would like to achieve over the next couple of days:

1.  Be active.  Renting bikes would be fun.

2.  Cook.  Maybe breakfast for dinner?

3.  Thrift.  I saw something the other day that I might go back to buy, if it's still there!

4.  Sit on my bum and watch movies.

Have a great weekend!!!

What's For Dinner?

Mustard & Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin

This was so yummy!  I threw a pork tenderloin into my basket at Trader Joes the other day, but I had no concrete plan on how to prepare it.  So I googled pork & thyme and this recipe came up.  I adore all things mustard so I was pretty excited, but it was even better than I imagined it would be.  The crunch of the breadcrumbs and tang of the mustard combine to make a memorable dish!
I served it with mashed potatoes, of course.  Click below for recipe.

Aspirational

{Here's another picture of that haircut I want}

Pining For Mad Men

Is anyone else out there dying for the next season of Mad Men already?  Life seems stale and flat without it.  I love everything about the show,  but one of my favorite things is the pen necklace Joan wears whenever she is in the office.  I have been thinking that I want one too for, oh I don't know, the last 3 years or so but I never thought to actually look for it until today!   

I found a great option right away and even better- it was only $20.00!  Buy here.

Griffith Park

 I went on a hike in Griffith Park today (ubiquitous shot of the Hollywood sign above).  It was heavenly and of course I berated myself for not going there more often.  Hopefully from now on I can remember there is a huge park very close to where I live where I can hike, rent/ride bikes, ride horses, and enjoy a beautiful view.  Followed up the hike by walking around the planetarium and people watching.  It was a lovely sunny day so there were lots of crowds and dogs about, and it was just so nice and I just love living in Los Angeles!

10 Things That Make Lauren Happy!

Let's try something new today shall we?  I have to admit, it gets a little boring talking about me, me, me all the time and it's nice to have some fresh ideas and new interests around these parts. 
To kick off this new feature, "10 Things That Make Me Happy", I asked my dear friend Lauren (seen above in the turquoise scarf) to bring her excellent taste to the table and share a few of her favorite things:

 1.  All things Hermes, including their stunning website and scarves.

2.  Favorite Record- Tropicália: ou Panis et Circencis

3.  The Universe of Fashion books

4.  Annick Goutal Petite Cherie Eau de Parfum

5.  L'oreal Target Red lipstick

6.  It's It ice cream sandwich

7.  One of Woody Allen's best films- Radio Days

8.  Matcha Lattes

9. Actress Setsuko Hara

10.  Favorite Colors- Navy Blue & Tomato Red

Thrift Score

For some reason, this weekend was all about the apples.  I found the two wire apple baskets at one thrift store and when I saw the silver apple shaped box at another, I was all- IT'S A THEME!  Other than that, I found nothing!  NOTHING!
So far my thrifting theory isn't really holding up so well.  But it's only mid-January so I will persevere.

Also:

Strudel would not stay out of the photos!  Baby cat model.

Fire & Ice

I purchased a nail polish today from Revlon's revamped Fire & Ice collection.  It's called "Demure", and it's fantastic!  The perfect shade of peach.  I just had to pile on all my rings and hit the town!

Buy here.  $4.79

Weekendy Times

What to do this weekend, what to do.

I think it goes without saying that I will be doing some thrifting.

I'd like to start going on some hikes in the area, does anyone in Los Angeles have a favorite?

I was thinking about making some split pea soup but now that it has gotten warmer here I no longer feel like eating comfort foods, perhaps I will make some fresh & crunchy salads instead!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Future Project

Here are some shots of cross stitch projects I have been working on.  I have this idea that's still in the formation stage, it involves holidays.  I am having a dilemna about some of the patterns I am using, I feel like there is a really fine line between hipster and old lady when it comes to cross stitch, and sometimes I don't know if I'm crossing it?  Sometimes I know that I do cross the line and I'm okay with it! 

I am still trying to open up my Etsy shop for needlework stuff.  I have been talking about it since last March so I should probably get that finished soon.  Anyway, I will keep you updated on my progress. 

Happy Friday!!!

Moskatels

Oh Moskatels.  You are heaven.

I was googling Michael's Crafts locations on my phone today and something puzzling was happening.  It kept saying there was a Michael's/Moskatels in downtown LA.  I have never heard of this elusive Moskatels before so I looked it up on Yelp*.  I found out that it is a craft/flower supply store that is owned by Michael's but is warehouse-like and much more interesting and old timey. 

I drove there and discovered it was right by Skid Row and next to the sketchiest street ever that looked exactly like Hamsterdam from The Wire.  There are two entrances to the store, but you want to enter on Wall Street, not on San Julian Street.  Trust me.

Anyway, it's all good because once you go, you will want to go back a million times.  It's amazing!  They have most of the crafty stuff you would normally get elsewhere, but all this other crazy stuff too.  Like weird mirror covered greek urn stands and any decorations you would need to open a seafood restaurant. 

Most things seem to be pretty cheap too.  I could have spent hours in there but only had 30 minutes on the meter outside.  I think I might go back tomorrow!

I indulged by buying a couple of items, but the best thing ever was this:

Awesome hanging glass terrarium!  And what's that, only $3.98?  Unheard of!

I have been pricing terrarium supplies and similar items I've seen usually run $20 and up. 

If you are in Los Angeles, I say run down there immediately and experience Moskatels for yourself. 

738 Wall St. Los Angeles, CA  90014.

*Fav quote about Moskatels on Yelp: "It's like Costco meets Michael's and they had a baby. And now I'm going to be getting weekend custody of that baby."

Thrift Score

Adorable flowered Fire King mini bowls, perfect for desserts.

Super cute bright yellow owl trivet.

Details, Details

I have a vision that I sometimes think about, in which the entire world would be well designed, like I were living in Sweden or something.  Every item you see on the street, even something boring like a garbage can, would be clean and modern and well designed.  I think it would create a general happiness and euphoria among all citizens!  But then I think, well- all those ladies who like their boring "country kitchen" style or all the people who prefer to decorate with only dark wood, they wouldn't be happy either!  I get all bogged down in the details.  But when I saw these upcoming Pioneers of American Industrial Design forever stamps from the post office, featuring designers such as Russel Wright and Eliot Noyes, I got super excited and started thinking about my vision again.  If everything around me can't get the "happy" treatment, at least my outgoing mail will!  And isn't it all about the details anyway? 

My Color Of The Year: Green

Pantone has gone ahead and picked their color of the year and they chose Honeysuckle.  I don't know about you but that was kind of the color of 2010 for me.  This year I'm much more into green! 
There are several home projects I want to take on and the only color I'm thinking of is a bright green, somewhere between kelly and grass, something like the photos below:

What's For Dinner?

This is what I call "The German Dinner". 

It consists of Breaded Pork Cutlets, Mustard Roasted Potatoes,  and Red Cabbage Salad.

This is the second time I've made it, and the potatoes turned out better the first time.  I learned not to crowd the potatoes.  You know that part in "Julie and Julia" when Julie learns not to crowd the mushrooms?  This is like that.  Don't crowd the potatoes or they won't brown properly.  

I have to say, the combination of pork, potatoes, and cabbage in this meal has become one of my favorites.  

Recipes after the break below-

blahblahblah

Hey y'all.  Did you know there is nothing going on that I feel like I could tell you about?  Everything is boring and nothing is happening!  So I just took a bunch of photos of things around me and am sharing them with you.

I am trying to eat more seasonally, so at the beginning of the month I pull out all my old Everyday Food mags from say, January, and go through and pick out recipes I want to make.

Romantic framed postcard I thrifted a while back.

Yeah, I have a magazine rack.  No, I don't own a store or a beauty salon.  You wanna make somethin' of it?  Let's take this outside!

(sorry, I overreact a little when confronted by my magazine obsession)

I love giant cocktail rings!  I store them in this Fenton milk glass ashtray from the 50's, previously thrifted.  I store a lot of things in old ashtrays, they are so cute and the perfect size for jewelry.

Breakfast.  No MSG, no preservatives.

Have a great day!!!

blahblah

What are you doing this weekend? 

I am:

1.  Wishing I lived in the above apartment so much.

2.  Going grocery shopping (I don't know about the rest of the world, but I LOVE

going grocery shopping!  I guess I just like shopping of any kind?).

3.  Going to the thrifts.

4.  Hanging with Strudes.

Have a great one y'all!

wantwantwantwantwantwantwantwantwantwant

The Brasa Avani tabletop fireplace.  $385

I did not know that such a thing existed.  Now that I know, I cannot live without it. 

It does not need a vent, you can put it anywhere in your home or outside, and it runs on Bioethanol.  Never mind that it is super expensive and so is the fuel.  I must have it.

Available in white, black, and blossom.

(image via typefiend)

The Best Thing To Wear For Today



Rainy days in Los Angeles= fashionable outerwear and a brandy at the end of a cold day!

{click on items for info}