tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48246502969087911552024-03-12T19:32:43.329-07:00xNTA Productions: A Little Bit of EverythingJoin me as I go through day to day life, helping you cover the basics: From Fashion to Food, Beauty to Books, I've got you covered!
This blog is PR friendly. For ads/sponsorship and other enquiries please e-mail: xNTA.productions@gmail.comxNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-87011577467495213302011-05-09T04:43:00.000-07:002011-05-09T08:11:06.077-07:00The Independent's Guide to Independence: Ep 2 - Keeping it Clean<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTc6flhyKyn5jAl20Gu8SqA5thhILTqFy-4Qg85hNsKPh-SENFxp5cmvOBS_wl6H4u2rifEPZp9RdiRq9-xZfyKH9jDbX5UytLYergSXnhd8cv7iiwXXH0zhbSmtmDgVdLYtO1YQM8Ybc/s1600/cleaning.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTc6flhyKyn5jAl20Gu8SqA5thhILTqFy-4Qg85hNsKPh-SENFxp5cmvOBS_wl6H4u2rifEPZp9RdiRq9-xZfyKH9jDbX5UytLYergSXnhd8cv7iiwXXH0zhbSmtmDgVdLYtO1YQM8Ybc/s1600/cleaning.png" /></a></div><br />
I know that it's been <i>weeks</i> since my last post but please cut me some slack, I've been on <b>vacation</b>. I really would love to stay more in touch with you all so <b>Twitter is your best bet</b> at this point: <a href="http://twitter.com/xnta">@xNTA</a> while I figure out how I'd like a facebook page set up (if I have one at all? <b>Let me know what you think</b>).<br />
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This week is a continuation of my series <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/p/independents-guide-to-independence.html">The Independent's Guide to Independence</a>, and this time we'll be covering some amazing tips and tricks on <b>cleaning</b>! Sound boring? You clearly have never had to get rid of microwave splatter...<br />
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWYOmubtXtrBnGBL0fkMsZBdo95Yskg5P8JsA3vcRKagHPosILZsF0s0s9lv2PS4TQS9iAbEt78bC9Cx8FV9TEJnqjWwpZf2U5MYPpYcuHUa2cbIykM7pZTVwVAkH8mCRuUhsLm7ejMQ/s1600/Untitled-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWYOmubtXtrBnGBL0fkMsZBdo95Yskg5P8JsA3vcRKagHPosILZsF0s0s9lv2PS4TQS9iAbEt78bC9Cx8FV9TEJnqjWwpZf2U5MYPpYcuHUa2cbIykM7pZTVwVAkH8mCRuUhsLm7ejMQ/s1600/Untitled-2.png" /></a></div><h3>1. Baking Soda - I love you</h3><b>Odours</b>. They lurk everywhere and so it's no wonder baking soda has fast become my best friend. I pop it in the fridge, have a small cup of it behind the toilet in the bathroom to keep it smelling fresh and of course, I have some in my boots.<br />
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Wait - what? You read right. <b>I keep some in my boots</b> to keep them from smelling like something crawled in there and died. This of course applies to sneakers or any other shoe you feel needs a little picker-upper. I tend to sprinkle some baking powder onto squares of <b>dryer sheets and place it straight into my shoes. </b>The combination soaks up smells and leaves them smelling spring fresh!<br />
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<b>Quick tip: Your own feet not exactly smelling like roses? Soak them in black tea for a while to get rid of the smell! Tea naturally and gently kills odour-causing bacteria.</b><br />
<h3><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvIRdG1F98RRJluG7gK_GhJqRtuPWc_KqhwJ0cJcrnGCyE_T0kH8X2lTdOf3trgVIe618UNonIFYiYjpK7d1NZXgFlNkoWH9VydCK4dx7N6eb2WXDP517KJP0dGlKAIfIvEgDqEUhMnk/s1600/Untitled-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvIRdG1F98RRJluG7gK_GhJqRtuPWc_KqhwJ0cJcrnGCyE_T0kH8X2lTdOf3trgVIe618UNonIFYiYjpK7d1NZXgFlNkoWH9VydCK4dx7N6eb2WXDP517KJP0dGlKAIfIvEgDqEUhMnk/s320/Untitled-1.png" width="320" /></a>2. Dryer Sheets - not just for shoes</h3>I actually place these sheets everywhere - yes exactly like in the commercials. I like to keep things smelling nice. Go figure. I have a few sheets at the bottom of my <b>laundry basket to keep things from going rank</b>.<br />
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My favourite thing to do? <b>I don't wear perfume</b>, but I do love the smell of my downy (I swear I'm not being paid/sponsored by them!) and so I like to cut up squares that I put in my jeans pockets, sweater pockets, pockets in shirts if there are any and of course in my big down jacket to keep them smelling great.<br />
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Now that winter is officially gone (thank Goodness!) I pack away all my jackets with sheets of these as well as <b>some soap</b> that I cut up using a knife and place in ziploc bags which I puncture holes into to keep moths away and keep my clothes smelling fresh!<br />
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I <i>also</i> like to sneak a few sheets between my mattress, the mattress protectant and the sheets as well.<br />
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Obsessed? Maybe a little. But my bed smells lovely.<br />
<h3><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxJTJD6DBSTQwCSSZsNz_KXDEF-As87z5HVdoET679FxNxTtYtd3xLBbXJ837-22sYnUYydTAVjC1gxV93WTet_jB0MoPPye8WTc26l96L8i_jtu49w8ngz_ziLhs4Np3hOibPQ6eqfc/s1600/Untitled-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxJTJD6DBSTQwCSSZsNz_KXDEF-As87z5HVdoET679FxNxTtYtd3xLBbXJ837-22sYnUYydTAVjC1gxV93WTet_jB0MoPPye8WTc26l96L8i_jtu49w8ngz_ziLhs4Np3hOibPQ6eqfc/s320/Untitled-3.png" width="247" /></a>3. Vinegar - making curry cooking possible since 2007</h3>I cook quite a bit and one horror story I had, was when I tried my hand at making <b>curry for a while</b>. I <i>love</i> Indian food. I love the taste. Even the smell. Except when I'm not eating it.<br />
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I was haunted by a <b>curry poltergeist for a week</b>. Just when I thought the smell was gone, it was back. With a vengeance. It drove me up the wall (that also smelt like curry). I vowed never again. Until I discovered what <b>Vinegar could do</b>.<br />
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When cooking food with strong odours (frying fish, curry, etc), place a small bowl of vinegar on your counter. It absorbs the smells so you can once again enjoy cooking whatever you'd like!<br />
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<b>Quick tip: Smelly hands after handling fish, garlic or onions? Rub your hands against stainless steel under running water!</b> <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4mFDYK7jBwT_Rb0KZpf2Pt1M-aju7p6jU72b7dhvV_SwjyMRNM2miDIH5vtS2aIp6hVfCnYfTDzE-Tdb9BGfObaW8oH57d-WcfLXnf1zm_6j6x_bdOsL3eK5JB16yV2j5hHU7bLi437k/s1600/Untitled-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4mFDYK7jBwT_Rb0KZpf2Pt1M-aju7p6jU72b7dhvV_SwjyMRNM2miDIH5vtS2aIp6hVfCnYfTDzE-Tdb9BGfObaW8oH57d-WcfLXnf1zm_6j6x_bdOsL3eK5JB16yV2j5hHU7bLi437k/s320/Untitled-3.png" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;" width="300">Retrospect Red Washing Up Gloves from <a href="http://www.dotcomgiftshop.com/retro-red-spotty-washing-up-gloves">dotcomgiftshop</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><h3>4. Rubber Gloves - I'm not all about smells!</h3>For those of us who own pets, they really are a blessing! Cats and dogs can fill a void with their steady companionship and loyalty. But almost all pets shed and that's when your relationship can sometimes hit a roadblock.<br />
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Now I'm not saying I'd love my pets <i>more</i> if they didn't shed. I'm just saying <b>I once stared longingly at a girl's fur-free black tights and for a moment there I thought to myself, what if</b> --<br />
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Of course I'm kidding. Sort of.<br />
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That's when rubber gloves come in. Now I've gotten lint rollers from <b>IKEA</b> and Shopper's and wherever I could find them. But they never did the trick. I resorted to using <b>packaging tape</b> - I would wrap the tape around my hands, sticky side out and pick up lint and pet dander that way but it <i>still </i>wasn't enough. Rubber gloves? Does the job in <b>minutes</b>.<br />
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The static that they produce cause lint, pet dander and the like to stick to your gloved hand as you swipe it over the surface. You can either wash your hands to clean the glove (be sure to catch the fur or it may clog your drain!), or use disposable gloves to throw away with the former option being <i>much</i> nicer on the environment!<br />
<h3><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixUrpbbEkRUIZAqLWckf22W0HPFf-N26yerwuSdIIccSP2SpSwDDF7-ggrDUsQfI9pP0NBHjnMaB7lAPLIIqoQOLWkZTK8sTIt_707Is-Kp4w-KOWtuh9VKUe03jrKVxIdAIgt8JXWIbQ/s1600/Untitled-4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixUrpbbEkRUIZAqLWckf22W0HPFf-N26yerwuSdIIccSP2SpSwDDF7-ggrDUsQfI9pP0NBHjnMaB7lAPLIIqoQOLWkZTK8sTIt_707Is-Kp4w-KOWtuh9VKUe03jrKVxIdAIgt8JXWIbQ/s320/Untitled-4.png" width="268" /></a>5. Newspapers - not just for the recycling bin!</h3>When cleaning glass surfaces this tip is a saviour. I don't read the news. I know I <i>should</i> but...<br />
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Anyway. I use old news papers and windex to clean all my glass surfaces. From windows to mirrors, this leaves them absolutely streak free! The gentle abrasiveness of the paper also <b>gently scrubs off almost all types of dirty and grime</b>.<br />
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<b>Quick tip: Placing some newspaper into wet shoes helps dry them quickly. A mat made of a pile of newspapers is a great way to recycle them and keep your floors safe from your slushy winter/rain boots.</b><br />
<h3><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1827qFnwwq1KIspct1xmt_0qoL5F4vccg36sXyM9s1RVU7Li0kxeRy_BBvh_GkNSroGQTS7HxQgfSLc1NQAsOeDe9ndtPVC6p0d6DNKV_Oa0FATBWi2Q3H_6mU2rtm_69Z7Vnn2n9tM/s1600/Untitled-5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1827qFnwwq1KIspct1xmt_0qoL5F4vccg36sXyM9s1RVU7Li0kxeRy_BBvh_GkNSroGQTS7HxQgfSLc1NQAsOeDe9ndtPVC6p0d6DNKV_Oa0FATBWi2Q3H_6mU2rtm_69Z7Vnn2n9tM/s1600/Untitled-5.png" /></a>6. The Microwave - zap it clean</h3>For most of us students/young adults the microwave is an important part of our lives. Without one most of us would rarely eat as we rely on it for cooking frozen dinners, snacks, reheating yesterday's take out or quickly cooking bacon and eggs in it in the morning for breakfast (what? Don't judge).<br />
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Unfortunately, unless you have one of those special covers you can use to prevent it, you're going to suffer from cooked on splatter all over your microwave.<br />
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This, fortunately, has a relatively quick fix: <b>just place a microwavable bowl of water in your microwave</b> and microwave until you see the water boiling. Turn off the microwave, and take out the bowl (be careful! it's hot!). The steam from the water should have softened the dirt on the sides of the microwave making it easy for you to sponge off.<br />
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Speaking of sponges, to keep them from becoming a growing culture of bacteria, soak in lemon juice to get rid of the smell, squeeze out excess juice and then zap it in the microwave on high for a good 10 seconds or so to <b>kill bacteria</b>. Alternatively, pop it in your dishwasher every once in a while.<br />
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<b>Quick tip: Your dishwasher can be invaluable when cleaning. A few drops of lemon in your dishwasher will rid your dishes and pans of odours. You can also place your hair brush in here (remove hair first of course) to give it a nice good clean every once in a while.</b><br />
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And that's it for now! Do <i>you</i> have any invaluable tips that you'd like to share? Leave it in the comment below and I'll add it here with credit to you of course!<br />
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Thanks everybody! Have a great one!<br />
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x<br />
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<hr />Sources<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">All edits by me<br />
<a href="http://longstock.deviantart.com/art/Que-Sera-Sera-2-50756053">Que Sera, Sera 2</a> by <a href="http://longstock.deviantart.com/">LongStock</a> @ deviantArt<br />
<a href="http://stockproject1.deviantart.com/art/Newspaper-Pile-5421669-182511677">Newspaper Pile 5421669</a> by<a class="u" href="http://stockproject1.deviantart.com/"> StockProject1</a> @deviantArt<br />
<a href="http://syrustock.deviantart.com/art/microwave-504624">microwave</a> by<a class="u" href="http://syrustock.deviantart.com/"> syrustock</a> @deviantArt</span></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com66tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-61645052005489651072011-04-25T03:30:00.000-07:002011-04-25T03:30:51.315-07:00Back from the Hiatus! Taking Guest Blogger Submissions!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrwO92yRpHPRZn331FQUqwz9QICXcz6hyiPMj2pLqyn_jwG2ETe-H5Vai3rBDlRXpZyJNz4w8qsODH-ck-H5wbYZFUXqm8OvvZoqLRd0k5oqxZS0GC16lnO_FHYtTZQ4xYC81y2DkyEU/s1600/giveawayheader.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrwO92yRpHPRZn331FQUqwz9QICXcz6hyiPMj2pLqyn_jwG2ETe-H5Vai3rBDlRXpZyJNz4w8qsODH-ck-H5wbYZFUXqm8OvvZoqLRd0k5oqxZS0GC16lnO_FHYtTZQ4xYC81y2DkyEU/s1600/giveawayheader.png" /></a></div><br />
Hello everyone! Hope everyone's exams went well/going well and that life in general is going great. I write to apologize for the hiatus that I seemed to have found myself in but I come back full force this week with my first set of in depth <b>reviews</b>, a make up tutorial/look, and info on my <b>exercise/fitness/diet regime</b>!<br />
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Also coming up is a continuation of the <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/p/independents-guide-to-independence.html">The Independent's Guide to Independence</a> series this time covering <b>Cleaning Tips & Tricks</b>. I've also got a post coming up on <b>Hair Removal</b>.<br />
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Due to popular demand, I'll also be covering Hair Care tips once more, with a more indepth guide on how to <b>grow out your hair</b>.<br />
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I'm also taking Guest Blogger submissions! I'd love to collaborate with you by writing for you or have content by you on this blog.<br />
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SO, if you have any requests, post them in the comments below or contact me via email: <b>xnta.productions@gmail.com</b><br />
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As always<br />
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<b>Have a great one! x</b></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-31281489476704703952011-04-03T23:25:00.000-07:002011-04-13T20:03:55.907-07:00[VIDEO] Jason Wu FW 2011 Eye makeup look: Navy Blue & Gold<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAkdHH5BfiSVjcpZ8jje6hK9nYoWtamMv3EmhCbxWaKsTiu0tkxPoHYjRuW4tDNCjF9_CaF24dnDYQQ1iWo7j5KAnrD3294-LnjMPTuSL7ZM34NgDF0cF-nAqIEUeVxmi-Jnz6kUyNgU/s1600/article-jwu-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAkdHH5BfiSVjcpZ8jje6hK9nYoWtamMv3EmhCbxWaKsTiu0tkxPoHYjRuW4tDNCjF9_CaF24dnDYQQ1iWo7j5KAnrD3294-LnjMPTuSL7ZM34NgDF0cF-nAqIEUeVxmi-Jnz6kUyNgU/s1600/article-jwu-header.png" /></a></div>This was a request from <b>David Diaz</b> at <a href="http://virtuallystunning.blogspot.com/">Virtually Stunning</a>. His post on <a href="http://virtuallystunning.blogspot.com/2011/02/beauty-at-jason-wu.html">The Makeup at Jason Wu's FW 2011 show</a> really intrigued me and I wanted to try my hand at recreating the look.<br />
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I know I didn't quite do it justice, but <b>David</b>, this is for you! Please check out his wonderful blog! (My favourites are the Celeb fashion roundups!)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szggHGxRDK4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7yKAMBBg7JzQSvs9BvzCBggLHYrHOqa5Bjf9UOi1rBg04LFj0xQQY3PbIEqMr9Gy6ssUp-T-1TKxukBmfl-dxV-Ma0vRRqtS9C0t60SRfRhF3HZYZC-wtIuTPRGiSY5lljNcvY5_mGWk/s1600/article-jwu-play.jpg" /><a name='more'></a></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9jOdvQQ7V_HbrPkroO5D_oIyqp4ApxwiEPtfidCW01vZcjYZ1mmYgx0e82TqvqO2msbhNe0jLesgDEVZg3sEwYIsHT9PUFrrtSNVOh5Mqv3ZqL1VdZIwDijRIqehrPvxenqjSPEH43A/s1600/article-jwu-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9jOdvQQ7V_HbrPkroO5D_oIyqp4ApxwiEPtfidCW01vZcjYZ1mmYgx0e82TqvqO2msbhNe0jLesgDEVZg3sEwYIsHT9PUFrrtSNVOh5Mqv3ZqL1VdZIwDijRIqehrPvxenqjSPEH43A/s1600/article-jwu-img1.jpg" /></a></div>I usually like to do the <b>whole face</b> when doing makeup looks but when studying the images of the models at Jason Wu's show, I saw that their faces were <b>pretty bare</b>.<br />
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The focus here were really on the eyes (+ the <b>manicure</b> that I have <i>no</i> hope of recreating, check out <a href="http://virtuallystunning.blogspot.com/2011/02/beauty-at-jason-wu.html">David's Post</a> to see what I mean) and of course on the fashion.<br />
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The <b>lips</b> for the most part were kept natural (I applied a lip balm to keep mine moisturized); the skin flawless and dewy - and so I opted to just do the tutorial on the eyes for this particular look.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVPh8J1E0eVJ_axs6pfwkXguNjtNMx_ucBw2O4T2PjjSc8OhZ165zvbCEPr0pqSmCeNzDBd2MowIwf1PZIlDtur3SMOb0gDmc1uoaUgRZHj8R0J4zGDmAM08yw1EYgpadqYYCU2kzECg/s1600/article-vdaynight-img2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVPh8J1E0eVJ_axs6pfwkXguNjtNMx_ucBw2O4T2PjjSc8OhZ165zvbCEPr0pqSmCeNzDBd2MowIwf1PZIlDtur3SMOb0gDmc1uoaUgRZHj8R0J4zGDmAM08yw1EYgpadqYYCU2kzECg/s320/article-vdaynight-img2.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>For the makeup I used, apart from primer, I used <b>L’Oreal HiP Matte Shadow Duo</b> in <b>Striking </b>and my favourite Sephora palette, that I've mentioned in a <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/02/video-tutorial-valentines-sleek.html">previous post</a>.<br />
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Have a great one!<br />
x</div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-31308485584241512732011-03-27T23:10:00.000-07:002011-03-27T23:30:07.565-07:00Buttercream Frosting Recipe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI1rY8T-bvCUd62d70dCCD_oCgEr9MwzGWvoi6K5qbSshkYQAclrCheyxrD7e4DNz-vwJRq6KH1wecpNG6g6DByJl4fj0qZhNpZkqG2RB9iDNse3AcWomIZCC9DZkKmzk4CD8Vwp2DiMQ/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI1rY8T-bvCUd62d70dCCD_oCgEr9MwzGWvoi6K5qbSshkYQAclrCheyxrD7e4DNz-vwJRq6KH1wecpNG6g6DByJl4fj0qZhNpZkqG2RB9iDNse3AcWomIZCC9DZkKmzk4CD8Vwp2DiMQ/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-header.png" /></a></div>My last post was on the <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/03/vanilla-cupcake-recipe.html">Vanilla Cupcakes</a> that I made for my <b>birthday</b>. And while that's all good and dandy, what makes a cupcake fantastic is of course, the <b>frosting</b>!<br />
<br />
This is a Meringue-based frosting meaning it's made out of eggwhites. There are several different ways of making <b>buttercream</b> and while some may find it tricky, it's actually wonderfully easy! I would want to say it's a piece of cake, but...well...Oh what the hell. Trust me guys.<br />
<br />
This one'll be a piece of cake. ;)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mr7Lm6m-TRA" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LMvfcWlpTDbtyeh7793rhLVgN8VxCnsxWmRgVxEFd_j0N570ZjeQsrTVxry053qrMhM5xkG6tOXwXQluo5JgPob15l-BQueCgkKKsL0LwcP-WZSwFyCTTQ5YNsT25rPhUwK4Rli1aBY/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-play.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<a name='more'></a>For Baking 101 please <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/03/vanilla-cupcake-recipe.html">read this </a>for important baking tips/tricks. Remember: have <i>all</i> your ingredients at room temperature unless stated otherwise! <br />
<h3><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKB9xqbk1_dFAlATXZF3AfCeHAs-69_rQ8KHmff-DAb_Q6784Nmc3Myllwnj_03k7hG7gr-oz3r83_60FpRUFp2OjDs4L__iPzukAATMcD4XfwXXGmP8j2EhVmiRDc0C3ToLTMd8QE5VI/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKB9xqbk1_dFAlATXZF3AfCeHAs-69_rQ8KHmff-DAb_Q6784Nmc3Myllwnj_03k7hG7gr-oz3r83_60FpRUFp2OjDs4L__iPzukAATMcD4XfwXXGmP8j2EhVmiRDc0C3ToLTMd8QE5VI/s320/article-vanillacupcakes-img1.jpg" width="228" /></a>Ingredients</h3>3 large egg whites<br />
¾ cup sugar<br />
Pinch of salt<br />
1 cup unsalted butter, cut into smaller pieces (I usually do about 12+)<br />
<h3>Instructions</h3>Combine egg whites and sugar in a heatproof bowl and set over simmering water. Make sure it is not <i>touching</i> the water<br />
<br />
Whisk constantly with a handmixer, and a whisk attachment, on high until mixture reaches 160F. If you don't have a thermometer, whisk until mixture holds stiff peaks<br />
<br />
Take off heat and whisk some more until mixture is at room temperature<br />
<br />
With paddle attachments, incorporate salt and the butter a little at a time<br />
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Finally, beat the mixture on high speed until it is smooth and creamy<br />
<br />
You can then add flavourings of choice (or leave plain), such as:<br />
Vanilla, Almond, Chocolate, Caramel, Coconut and my personal favourite, coffee!</div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-90704528326448530952011-03-21T14:46:00.000-07:002011-04-13T20:04:45.491-07:00Vanilla Cupcake Recipe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI1rY8T-bvCUd62d70dCCD_oCgEr9MwzGWvoi6K5qbSshkYQAclrCheyxrD7e4DNz-vwJRq6KH1wecpNG6g6DByJl4fj0qZhNpZkqG2RB9iDNse3AcWomIZCC9DZkKmzk4CD8Vwp2DiMQ/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI1rY8T-bvCUd62d70dCCD_oCgEr9MwzGWvoi6K5qbSshkYQAclrCheyxrD7e4DNz-vwJRq6KH1wecpNG6g6DByJl4fj0qZhNpZkqG2RB9iDNse3AcWomIZCC9DZkKmzk4CD8Vwp2DiMQ/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-header.png" /></a></div><br />
So for my birthday I made some pretty darned amazing Vanilla Cupcakes to celebrate. I filmed the process, along with the making of the <b>buttercream frosting</b> (meringue based) and you'll be seeing the steps to the buttercream frosting soon!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXdsCp88p5A"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LMvfcWlpTDbtyeh7793rhLVgN8VxCnsxWmRgVxEFd_j0N570ZjeQsrTVxry053qrMhM5xkG6tOXwXQluo5JgPob15l-BQueCgkKKsL0LwcP-WZSwFyCTTQ5YNsT25rPhUwK4Rli1aBY/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-play.jpg" /></a> </div><a name='more'></a><h3>New to Baking? Here's some Baking 101:</h3><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXdsCp88p5A" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKB9xqbk1_dFAlATXZF3AfCeHAs-69_rQ8KHmff-DAb_Q6784Nmc3Myllwnj_03k7hG7gr-oz3r83_60FpRUFp2OjDs4L__iPzukAATMcD4XfwXXGmP8j2EhVmiRDc0C3ToLTMd8QE5VI/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-img1.jpg" /></a>Everyone can bake. You just need to know some tips and tricks of the trade!<br />
<br />
In baking, <b>temperature</b> is very important. Mixing cold ingredients is difficult and will lead to cupcakes that are too watery or too dry.<br />
<br />
So, pull out all your ingredients in advance and have them settle to about room temperature. For eggs, you can let them sit in tepid water to warm them up. Milk needs to be out for about 15min. Butter can be softened (<i>softened</i> <b>not</b> <i>melted</i>) by blasting it in the microwave for 10sec.<br />
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For those of you wondering why on EARTH we add <b>salt</b> to most baked goods, it's for one reason alone: flavour.<br />
<br />
Salt acts to balance out the sugar as well as really enhance the flavour of all the ingredients. You don't need much. Just a pinch or two.<br />
<br />
When it comes to mixing, <u><b>never over beat</b></u>. The key here is to mix things in until JUST incorporated. i.e. You just added flour? Mix until you don't see any flour on the side. Scrape the sides down as you go. You're making <i>cake</i>. Over beating will have you making <b>bread</b> instead. Not exactly what we want.<br />
<h3>Ingredients:</h3>1¼ cups all-purpose flour<br />
1½ tsp baking powder<br />
¼ tsp salt<br />
¾ cups sugar <br />
6 tbsp unsalted butter<br />
1 large egg<br />
1 large egg white<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
½<i><i> </i></i>cup whole milk<br />
<h3>Instructions:</h3><b>Preheat oven to 350F</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNRoarOmBSWRM6z6d3AXn0s23McSKy1oYC27ZoSsAvjYyg88YTg60X9rUBtRdTpZ9KDSEx6QxtR2U4IvzeTdzuQWgw0B97rXgdNnrlrmXy43R8yIUjwW7eVLi5-_L3lfDuupSia6WZdTg/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-img2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNRoarOmBSWRM6z6d3AXn0s23McSKy1oYC27ZoSsAvjYyg88YTg60X9rUBtRdTpZ9KDSEx6QxtR2U4IvzeTdzuQWgw0B97rXgdNnrlrmXy43R8yIUjwW7eVLi5-_L3lfDuupSia6WZdTg/s1600/article-vanillacupcakes-img2.jpg" /></a></div>In a bowl, mix together your <b>flour</b>, <b>baking powder</b> and <b>salt</b>. This is your <b>Flour Mixture</b>.<br />
<br />
In a separate, larger bowl, beat your <b>sugar </b>and <b>butter </b>together with an electric-mixer on <b>medium-high speed</b>.<br />
<b> </b><br />
Add your egg and egg white <b>one at a time</b>, beating on low until <i>just</i> incorporated. Then add your <b>vanilla</b>.<br />
<br />
Now we'll be adding our Flour mixture in <b>3 additions</b> and Milk in <b>2 additions</b>, alternating between the two, so to simplify, we'll be adding them to our large bowl like this: Flour Mixture - Milk - Flour Mixture - Milk - Flour Mixture<br />
<b>Beat on low</b> between each addition<br />
<br />
Now divide the batter evenly in muffin cups filling each to about 3/4ths full. Don't over-fill. We're making cupcakes not muffins!<br />
<br />
Pop into the oven, for about 18-20 minutes or until light gold-brown and a toothpick put into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Cupcakes bake best <b>in the center of the oven</b><br />
<br />
Let cool on a rack and make sure they're cool before <b>frosting</b>.<br />
<br />
And you're done! Wait for my buttercream frosting recipe for some great frosting ideas!</div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-76948425794169694892011-03-21T13:06:00.000-07:002011-03-27T23:29:39.857-07:0088+ Follower Giveaway Winner:<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39AqEEMnxTA-XzkjbAn0RVC_V3soiy8WRCMhZuBKhYYLpdred9czMmVauBW6WS0F6uv_RTb7KdQ669b6OsBtf-A8feyHkm7MWkuxV2C4F2NlWJOfLp60gdCoKEJy1Ar4odk94PIMbVwU/s1600/article-giveaway1winner-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39AqEEMnxTA-XzkjbAn0RVC_V3soiy8WRCMhZuBKhYYLpdred9czMmVauBW6WS0F6uv_RTb7KdQ669b6OsBtf-A8feyHkm7MWkuxV2C4F2NlWJOfLp60gdCoKEJy1Ar4odk94PIMbVwU/s1600/article-giveaway1winner-header.png" /></a></div><br />
Hi guys! After going through <b>144</b> unique entries and putting them down <b>424</b> times, I finally have the winner to my <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/02/open-88-follower-giveaway.html">very first giveaway</a>.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Before I announce the winner however, I feel I need to address a couple of things.<br />
<br />
I got quite a few entries from people who <b>aren't followers</b> and never were. I guess they didn't realize that before putting down any names, I <b>checked</b>, to make it fair for those who <i>did</i> take the time to follow, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel, as well as blog and/or post about my giveaway on their blogs. <br />
<br />
Some people also entered <b>twice</b>. Some because they must have hit enter twice and others by using a different Google Friend Connect name but the same e-mail OR vice versa.<br />
<br />
This is considered <b>Cheating</b>. Now, I don't know if this was a mistake (they do happen), but please please please, don't be an ass. Read the rules. Everybody loves free stuff, but be fair to others.<br />
<br />
Having said that, now on to the winner!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcs_ihQzUBDJyDNUzAtA8JSFS-aArju-n1aQAUCOIFJk6p-qqDsx6W7R5JOyMSIDgsi7XrxajakuFW41ArM4U0FK3kulZhq2RvD5-gV5PWOH3c5Z0Zq2D9MzzzPfUqQ0B2S56RIXCOwA/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-03-21+at+3.52.27+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcs_ihQzUBDJyDNUzAtA8JSFS-aArju-n1aQAUCOIFJk6p-qqDsx6W7R5JOyMSIDgsi7XrxajakuFW41ArM4U0FK3kulZhq2RvD5-gV5PWOH3c5Z0Zq2D9MzzzPfUqQ0B2S56RIXCOwA/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-03-21+at+3.52.27+PM.png" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07I0fzu5ZrDkce1dkkKT-UjQfL12TkBafyvDtMRj9xAMISduuSr3Tz3CK0T7Cp0AqnZ2Bb28JhdYsbyTxbXROZlalWdG9cmszbuqrSoktt8cWBYylAmF24QdqYmukGbiMFKHz8rvaZLE/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-03-21+at+3.53.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07I0fzu5ZrDkce1dkkKT-UjQfL12TkBafyvDtMRj9xAMISduuSr3Tz3CK0T7Cp0AqnZ2Bb28JhdYsbyTxbXROZlalWdG9cmszbuqrSoktt8cWBYylAmF24QdqYmukGbiMFKHz8rvaZLE/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-03-21+at+3.53.02+PM.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><h2>Congratulations Christina Russel!</h2></div>Please check your inbox and <b>respond within 48 hours</b> or I'll have to pick a new winner!<br />
Thank you!</div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-71001661583873669992011-03-15T00:27:00.000-07:002011-03-15T00:27:52.690-07:00[Guest Post] F/W 2011 Fashion Round-Up<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://virtuallystunning.blogspot.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSQXcNMLiDa4rOwuaHb1xbBNuFkkR94VFhB5aQJinHlsXkVkjXZP4lpSTv5UqBlP5cUSZ861TxBvnjfOW_lEchthuVYfoap3ZfH3xyk1lS-xbOSYX11wpQPXtPXxxpkhm4LiGlK8gjc8/s1600/article-vstunning-header.png" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: right;">by David Diaz</h2>The wonderful <b>David Diaz</b> from <a href="http://virtuallystunning.blogspot.com/">Virtually Stunning</a> was lovely enough to do a great Guest Post for me. So, for your fashion fix check out his overview of his favourite looks from the Fall/Winter 2011 collections, keep on reading! <br />
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Don't forget to check out <a href="http://virtuallystunning.blogspot.com/">his amazing blogs</a> for the latest in everything fashion! <br />
<a name='more'></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdoU83f2jKXXfqYp9i5UXFBiICb8Oqoefjw0T7sb0eg49SaARWjEx0PB7z3wV4bSHNudxcL0nL4txt0UVY971OPvhM0UD3tfU8pYbBIE5Ytmyl_yU_VpgWyrwtg4JMwjn5-6KsGc8u4hw/s1600/PSFW2011.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdoU83f2jKXXfqYp9i5UXFBiICb8Oqoefjw0T7sb0eg49SaARWjEx0PB7z3wV4bSHNudxcL0nL4txt0UVY971OPvhM0UD3tfU8pYbBIE5Ytmyl_yU_VpgWyrwtg4JMwjn5-6KsGc8u4hw/s640/PSFW2011.jpeg" width="424" /></a></div><br />
There were a lot of beautiful collections for the Fall/Winter 2011 season. There were bold prints, amazing coats, pretty textures and a lot more. I picked out my favorite looks from my favorite designers for each fashion week, which are New York, London, Milan, and Paris. There are many more fashion weeks, but those are the main ones.<br />
<br />
I kept up with NYFW (New York Fashion Week) and the collections that were presented were absolutely gorgeous! My favorite designers, <b>Lazaro Hernandez</b> and <b>Jack McCollough</b> from <b>Proenza Schouler</b> presented a loud, bold, colorful, and of course, gorgeous collection. I literally loved every single look, but I can't show all 33 looks so I chose the first look, which is so pretty! You can see the full collection <a href="http://www.vogue.com/collections/fall-2011/proenza-schouler/runway/#">here</a>. <a href="http://www.proenzaschouler.com/shop/">Proenza Schouler</a> brought us bold, colorful prints, breathtaking craftsmanship, and lots more! Oh and we can't forget about how amazing the <b>pony-hair heels</b> were!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgtWj7peqKtUir17EpIxcuZ_jZgjaNzAaJ0ml-1aVvzK7QPfDOfYEocGjnF27TId-IuCgtjdCKpY778Be2GxsoALUMzMVOZf1SJ936bQaTIbp3X0nISvqub5XQoYuEKFCnL5wwZvhpD4/s1600/EFW2011.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgtWj7peqKtUir17EpIxcuZ_jZgjaNzAaJ0ml-1aVvzK7QPfDOfYEocGjnF27TId-IuCgtjdCKpY778Be2GxsoALUMzMVOZf1SJ936bQaTIbp3X0nISvqub5XQoYuEKFCnL5wwZvhpD4/s640/EFW2011.jpeg" width="424" /></a></div><br />
Moving on to <b>Erdem</b>, which I have to say was magnificent! Erdem also gave us prints, but they gave it to us in a more mysterious dark feel. He did a wonderful job incorporating tweed into a really pretty dress, and even beautiful lace that was sewn into this pink/magenta glossy dress. Another highlight of the collection was an amazing hot-pink sweater layered upon a beautifully crafted printed skirt. You have to check out the collection, click <a href="http://www.vogue.com/collections/fall-2011/merdem/runway/#">here</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilr951Yut_jwX02CZWGJaOkHcxGMYqPayA7qjthkH33LX-WTSBbe3M_XfJSv2OgYAMWZJtE9QR6la8bKgEBUP-hnm5CyprUYcgDpBz_NFkU0NyNhWOuVwynTMvY23Cu0KyVHJN4qgAvY/s1600/DGFW2011.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilr951Yut_jwX02CZWGJaOkHcxGMYqPayA7qjthkH33LX-WTSBbe3M_XfJSv2OgYAMWZJtE9QR6la8bKgEBUP-hnm5CyprUYcgDpBz_NFkU0NyNhWOuVwynTMvY23Cu0KyVHJN4qgAvY/s640/DGFW2011.jpeg" width="424" /></a></div><br />
It seems that all my favorite designers decided to play with prints this F/W 2011 season, which will make the season more fun than the usual dark colors that are presented. <b>Dolce & Gabbana</b> had color exploding everywhere from the bags, to the shoes, to the ultra amazing coats! I'm really loving this look, the sheer blouse printed with the blue stars paired with a yellow stars printed skirt...One word: <b>AMAZING</b>!<br />
<br />
Every time I see a <a href="http://www.dolcegabbana.com/">Dolce & Gabbana</a> collection I always seem to be fascinated by their bags...If only I could have one or maybe just all of them, especially those from this season: the bags were glittery, sequined, and just oh-so-gorgeous! See the full collection <a href="http://www.vogue.com/collections/fall-2011/mdgabbana/runway/">here</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5PkbqyvNI6SkEP2bwqiLJMAD-j9qDzQhDN2wh0VZFE-DsxalIXunPY20nS4LeSB360ycczKKzI3mwmSH_JKSd58xYU1EupII2-AN5LtGZM6GruwzPe-ct9SatvION8KjPynlvrr3XWI/s1600/VRFW2011.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5PkbqyvNI6SkEP2bwqiLJMAD-j9qDzQhDN2wh0VZFE-DsxalIXunPY20nS4LeSB360ycczKKzI3mwmSH_JKSd58xYU1EupII2-AN5LtGZM6GruwzPe-ct9SatvION8KjPynlvrr3XWI/s640/VRFW2011.jpeg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<b>Viktor & Rolf</b> went for a more simple collection, focusing on a palette that only featured black, white, red, and silver. But the simplicity ended there, for in craftsmanship, <a href="http://www.viktor-rolf.com/_en/_ww/index.htm">Viktor & Rolf</a> went to the extreme as they usually do.<br />
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They never fail to impress me with how incredible their designs are. Just look at the <b>pinwheels</b> on the coat shown above and those <b>cascading ruffles</b> just makes that coat even that much more amazing! <a href="http://www.viktor-rolf.com/_en/_ww/index.htm">Viktor & Rolf</a> is definitely where I get my biggest inspirations from, because they're so unique in designing their collections. Don't you agree? See the full collection <a href="http://www.elle.com/Runway/Ready-to-Wear/Fall-2011-RTW/VIKTOR-ROLF/VIKTOR-ROLF#mode=base;slide=0;">here</a>.<br />
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Well, that's the round-up, now these collections were just my favorite...<b>What collection/designer did you like the most for the F/W 2011 season?</b><br />
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Love you,<br />
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David Diaz<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://virtuallystunning.blogspot.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAW5qc5MUv_DRRQjyysd1X9ggNxSkCBhAbsy_05XAWGtCPm0Dg5km4TUnBbLWs-Fk0Ni75C34c6iaXIJ487RC9k52Kar7-Yfhc1ip3Pjpj68SpDZrcXHJFri4gFfk2KhmkxEupC6cg0X4/s1600/AboutAuthor-DiazD.png" /></a></div></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-69817252766991403202011-03-11T11:06:00.000-08:002011-03-11T11:51:11.737-08:00How to Help Japan: Earthquake & Tsunami Relief<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYBL4XI3oYLN4_JLrJOPLI3xIrKOSsU0JWACg57U2SHXetu2FjPigFCE9uD7v1F0-twbZvyMKJbKSzcoQf48iSlrNC2jaE7CiIiWY5s8PC0bXk8IBrkCUsFVP2yTo7S3TKBcfLZwz-0g/s1600/article-japan-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYBL4XI3oYLN4_JLrJOPLI3xIrKOSsU0JWACg57U2SHXetu2FjPigFCE9uD7v1F0-twbZvyMKJbKSzcoQf48iSlrNC2jaE7CiIiWY5s8PC0bXk8IBrkCUsFVP2yTo7S3TKBcfLZwz-0g/s1600/article-japan-header.png" /></a></div><br />
As some of you may know, on March 11, 2011, a huge 8.9 earthquake and subsequent tsunami hit Japan, causing widespread destruction.<br />
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Our hearts go out to those in Japan, and while some of us are not necessarily able to actively work as relief aids, read more to learn how <b>you can help</b>. <br />
<a name='more'></a><h2>The US</h2><a href="http://newsroom.redcross.org/2011/03/11/disaster-alert-tsunami-warning-for-guhinmiorwaca/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+RedCrossOnlineNewsroom+%28American+Red+Cross+Online+Newsroom%29" target="_hplink">The Red Cross</a> - visit their webpage or text: <b>REDCROSS</b> to <b>90999</b> to donate $10.00 from your phone<br />
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<h2>Canada</h2><a href="https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/donate.aspx?EventID=66175&LangPref=en-CA&Referrer=direct%2fnone">The Red Cross</a> - visit their webpage to donate, or call toll-free <b>1-800-418-1111 </b>to donate or text <b>REDCROSS</b> to <b>30333</b> to donate CA$10.00<br />
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<a href="http://www.crcna.org/news.cfm?detailid=3556&newsid=2522" target="_blank">The Christian Reformed World Relief Committee</a> - visit their webpage to donate or call toll-free <b>1-800-730-3490</b><br />
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<a href="http://plancanada.ca/Page.aspx?pid=3369" target="_blank">Plan International Canada</a> - visit their webpage for more information<b> </b><br />
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<h2>Other Countries...</h2><a href="http://www.savethechildren.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=8rKLIXMGIpI4E&b=6478593&ct=9170883&notoc=1#stc_lid=vpos_646?msource=wellpaqks311">Save the Children</a> - visit their webpage for more information<br />
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<a href="http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/japan-earthquake-tsunami-relief/">Global-Giving.org</a> - visit their webpage for more information, Retweet from that page to get the word out<br />
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<a href="http://www.internationalmedicalcorps.org/Page.aspx?pid=332" target="_hplink">Internationalmedicalcorps.org</a> - The organization has put together a team to help with the devastation. Visit their webpage to see how you can help<br />
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<a href="http://www.worldvision.org/#/home/main/japan-earthquake-1-1-1357" target="_hplink">World Vision</a> - Has mobilized staff to respond to the Earthquake, please check out their website to see how you can help<br />
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<a href="http://www.unicef.ca/portal/Applications/Core/sbNews/sbNews.aspx?NewsID=1006&am=5483&rp=1266" target="_blank">UNICEF</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.msf.ca/" target="_blank">Médicins Sans Frontières</a> - has already sent teams to help in the worst-hit ares<br />
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For any who have loved ones who may have been affected by the tsunami, <b>Google</b> has stepped up to help: they've launched the <a href="http://japan.person-finder.appspot.com/?lang=en" target="_hplink">Person Finder</a> to help connect people that may have been displaced due to the disaster and have set up an alert on their front page. <br />
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<b>P</b><b>lease please please</b> leave a comment below, and let me know any other ways that people can help and contribute that I've maybe missed and I will update this list ASAP.<br />
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Every little bit counts!<br />
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-Ann-Margaret of xNTA Productions</div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-36785619831370452232011-03-08T14:37:00.000-08:002011-03-09T13:39:49.192-08:00[VIDEO] Tutorial: Spring is (almost) Here!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EWyt1Ky_TI" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTSU37xbGV_u6MRA46y8luJtxc_Oms9NV0_FAWrzSvdondi62ZuuoLL30odd2PMocZZQ_76KFlobuYvLaiVjkcTgLGky2RsOhL5CF4wUS1DVTHX2qhAYZP3jDXRDitHuHj52sL3lRl8g/s1600/article-spring1-header.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EWyt1Ky_TI"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwdUFJ-W6zWIub1g-G7TF9QOrmuSO-cysYxuv8t8GT4OJxocCWHhI_hJe7f2_lJh6fu74eoi1EMpXPUbGRgbAahC76eU7kH_0U83McGz8Hh1-w1lsrzwOs23HrErDYup7XDcLu3tp9l0I/s1600/article-spring1-play.png" /></a><span id="goog_1064086654"></span><span id="goog_1064086655"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div></div>I'm just <i>dying</i> for Spring to arrive. So maybe this post is premature, but seeing as I have <i>LOADS</i> of upcoming Spring-y make up looks coming up, I think it's alright.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Today I'll be using <b>beautiful blues</b> and <b>gorgeous greens</b> to get this slightly cat-eye look that's great for lunching on a patio or a fun night out <i>sans </i>copious amounts of layering.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidl7x0McqJX0vwXwh7TFHTSlduDq2QLAZyD5WgmTwg3_32LjAa4Rfcw83BRRXCCgs5tB4ZBzE4YYlOL5ghtOoTmAROPI4TZxuo5OhT-I9sD-2ZPXWzNWFrb38jwOL1x1ZUDIf0eOzFBeE/s1600/article-spring1-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidl7x0McqJX0vwXwh7TFHTSlduDq2QLAZyD5WgmTwg3_32LjAa4Rfcw83BRRXCCgs5tB4ZBzE4YYlOL5ghtOoTmAROPI4TZxuo5OhT-I9sD-2ZPXWzNWFrb38jwOL1x1ZUDIf0eOzFBeE/s1600/article-spring1-img1.jpg" /></a><br />
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I used just two palettes when creating this look: <b>Maybelline Eyestudio </b>in <b>90 Irresistibly Ivy</b> and <b>Marcelle Lace Eye Shadow Trio </b>in <b>Azure Blue</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghkKkLIYZ35rJFlxY-mm2CK-lgdLbSw5vxiawGWpMyXq1goBOlkkrdCj-Ux8CJgVHjbpL3tgI1Pr-ItILVNgRpCjlpysHoOICG_bFqSzvp4emosXbI_ziQ995H8IQVuI7EbLbEMM_9eS8/s1600/article-spring1-img3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghkKkLIYZ35rJFlxY-mm2CK-lgdLbSw5vxiawGWpMyXq1goBOlkkrdCj-Ux8CJgVHjbpL3tgI1Pr-ItILVNgRpCjlpysHoOICG_bFqSzvp4emosXbI_ziQ995H8IQVuI7EbLbEMM_9eS8/s1600/article-spring1-img3.png" /></a><br />
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As you can see, both palettes have quite a bit of <b>fallout</b>, and though I forgot to mention this in the video, I had to do quite a bit of clean up after I was done with eyeshadow application.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVj_IcCoHQjalmzcseSy7Mt0OkNcSaEOLCrxTgEEz62RoJvRD_jsQXuECaO4qkPIUuAa5BG2beB6Z8lRSjuMI1E5f-NMTL3ZyJtJ23gK4SoWrj6ySL6DhoWcxF0UoysM9CQrKTAVoMqA/s1600/article-spring1-img2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVj_IcCoHQjalmzcseSy7Mt0OkNcSaEOLCrxTgEEz62RoJvRD_jsQXuECaO4qkPIUuAa5BG2beB6Z8lRSjuMI1E5f-NMTL3ZyJtJ23gK4SoWrj6ySL6DhoWcxF0UoysM9CQrKTAVoMqA/s1600/article-spring1-img2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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This <b>Marcelle</b> palette is one of my favourites. I rarely use it, but I love the colours. They're quite light and shimmery and you really need to build them since the colour payoff isn't all that great but for a really romantic look, this is my go-to palette.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUikNbDa4z402pb3X6gQhKr_qsAHWmkwBwYD6JsEHt4RcnhMNq2f9RSkNJD0WVf7EuZI0naXVkpz73e5HYWEuvZe1CIOkMOrqJH-ETT7KpjDawuK9DFW1tMKs18NtwcPIuRMT0heSfo0/s1600/article-spring1-img4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUikNbDa4z402pb3X6gQhKr_qsAHWmkwBwYD6JsEHt4RcnhMNq2f9RSkNJD0WVf7EuZI0naXVkpz73e5HYWEuvZe1CIOkMOrqJH-ETT7KpjDawuK9DFW1tMKs18NtwcPIuRMT0heSfo0/s1600/article-spring1-img4.jpg" /></a></div>My brand new <b>Mascara Obsession</b> is <b>d.j.v. beautenizer volume lash</b>. I had just run out of my <b>Bourjois Liner Effect</b> mascara and purchased the <b>False Lash Mascara</b> by <b>Maybelline</b> and was <i>very</i> disappointed. The wand was awkward to use on my short lashes and that mascara just point blank, <i>refused</i><b> </b>to wash off. Not only did my <b>Purity</b> not work, <i>none</i> of my make up removers did either. It smudged yet would not budge at night. I tossed it and went to Sephora in search for a brand new mascara. I picked this one on a whim, and so far, I'm quite pleased.<br />
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It <i>does</i> clump - its one downfall really - but what volume! Apparently also has conditioning oils that are great for the lashes, is smudge proof <i>and</i> comes off similar to a tube mascara with just warm water on a cotton pad. Wonderful!<br />
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So, what do you guys think?<br />
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Watch out for an update video over on my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/xxnta/"><b>youtube channel</b></a>.<br />
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Have a great one!<br />
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x</div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-51246910081006262232011-03-01T19:14:00.000-08:002011-03-01T19:14:49.754-08:00[Guest Post] Eat Happy! ep. 2 - Party Foods<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijtemLxPnQL_gKv_Dki3VF5_PgCdFgZ9r0q_7tzg8A9KybaJCjJOZIp4_gArBxaeJPtlBYcG05ST2Bzzce3xWjQHd9u1oELK88ZbzKNzSHA0hqrfV_aggblpZziDfy2vrkkVekAJJIV-4/s1600/article-eathappy2-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijtemLxPnQL_gKv_Dki3VF5_PgCdFgZ9r0q_7tzg8A9KybaJCjJOZIp4_gArBxaeJPtlBYcG05ST2Bzzce3xWjQHd9u1oELK88ZbzKNzSHA0hqrfV_aggblpZziDfy2vrkkVekAJJIV-4/s1600/article-eathappy2-header.png" /></a> </div><h3 style="text-align: right;">by Mahsa A</h3>Many of us love to go to parties and love to throw them as well. But more often than not, <b>we struggle with snacks</b>: we want to have snacks that are delicious but healthier than chips and dip. I have two easy and healthy recipes that basically make great substitutes for main stream party foods.<br />
<a name='more'></a><h2>1.1 Pita or Fajita Chips</h2>We all love chips and dip but we all hate how addictive they are and how guilty they make us feel. A very good guilt free substitute for chips is <b>baked pita or fajita bread</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHhyaE6uO985_6D3H2lAPR1S7CK9J5jUhskPEQ1HA9aQ1pu6ScALeXk-fzzJSv4Y-FLrh5YtPZ2vTui0ffIvustTjGNr6xh9nAr6POzt0svKp-AarXozzOvwBL7RvZU1zwNU75YeLTVM/s1600/article-eathappy2-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHhyaE6uO985_6D3H2lAPR1S7CK9J5jUhskPEQ1HA9aQ1pu6ScALeXk-fzzJSv4Y-FLrh5YtPZ2vTui0ffIvustTjGNr6xh9nAr6POzt0svKp-AarXozzOvwBL7RvZU1zwNU75YeLTVM/s1600/article-eathappy2-img1.jpg" /></a><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
White/whole wheat pitas or fajita bread (whole wheat for the healthier option)<br />
Extra virgin olive oil <br />
Herbs and spices of your choice (optional)<br />
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Cut bread into chips sized triangles, and place them onto an oven tray that's lightly coated with extra virgin olive oil.<br />
Sprinkle your choice of herbs and spices on top if you like; you can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.<br />
Put the tray in a preheated oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius)<br />
Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the bread, the amount of chips you have on<br />
the tray and how crispy you want them to be, so I suggest you do what I do: check the bread every<br />
5 – 10 minutes until it reaches they are to your liking.<br />
Let cool, serve.<br />
<h2>1.2 Yogurt/Sour Cream Dip</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4S6LQ2Hht6vNVvsN7ULwLgERjlhu9T62lkmYnUQZptNeFDUuIsgpEeer0a0S9j5xYqPs7bw_LrvcdFoJG0MNHRMRPia8rDA2CHe8TpkCas7AthEQ9sGqt27zEv8H7ZE4xk31Dv8HZXPk/s1600/article-eathappy2-img3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4S6LQ2Hht6vNVvsN7ULwLgERjlhu9T62lkmYnUQZptNeFDUuIsgpEeer0a0S9j5xYqPs7bw_LrvcdFoJG0MNHRMRPia8rDA2CHe8TpkCas7AthEQ9sGqt27zEv8H7ZE4xk31Dv8HZXPk/s320/article-eathappy2-img3.jpg" width="320" /></a>The amounts mentioned are just guidelines. Amounts depend on how much you want to make and how thick you want the dip to be.<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
2 cup Plain yogurt<br />
2 cup Sour cream<br />
1 cup Crushed walnuts<br />
1 Finely diced cucumber or zucchini<br />
1/4 cup Dried mint leaves<br />
Garlic powder to taste<br />
Salt and pepper to taste<br />
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Just mix it all together, and you have a delicious and healthy dip for the party. For an even healthier option, you can use low fat yogurt and sour cream for even fewer calories.<h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJfQX94syh6o2M3dK7yO9D3Y8vayEsW0agfQAM5S8K_Gbe5_DlJiR_CO2AThsMRA4GGdh64QlD6-2sMyuYDRcWIQVVXIXBz7Tt52Pqzqx0xq-BTggrQvb2OH0IBKMW8Aiz8xZxsMaQoI/s1600/article-eathappy2-img4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJfQX94syh6o2M3dK7yO9D3Y8vayEsW0agfQAM5S8K_Gbe5_DlJiR_CO2AThsMRA4GGdh64QlD6-2sMyuYDRcWIQVVXIXBz7Tt52Pqzqx0xq-BTggrQvb2OH0IBKMW8Aiz8xZxsMaQoI/s1600/article-eathappy2-img4.jpg" /></a>2. Low Fat Potato Salad</h2>Another party favorite is potato salad; we all love it, but again hate the fact that it is drenched in mayonnaise and sometimes mayonnaise <i>and</i> butter. A great solution is to make the potato salad just as you usually do, but only use half of the mayonnaise/butter you normally would and replace it with chicken stock (adding actual chicken to the salad is also very delicious) and low fat yogurt.<br />
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Your salad will get an extra kick of flavour from the chicken stock and not lose out on creaminess or texture thanks to the low fat yogurt.<br />
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I hope you try and like these ideas and they help you have a good guilt free time at your parties.<br />
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Until next time, much love from your personal eat happy consultant, Mahsa A.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVcTVOBcl0sDPJCKN2XEuw7Unch9RhKUxFF5VrkI5LcveRh2qyJwTFswAKO2hA66f9kwHzOTOEwuzs9rpvzsGRWEzZ_BsfLe_7mheec2sgX_cAaS4JO-oOERz214_2cuRKv5bOhvdNwck/s1600/AboutAuthor-Mahsa.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVcTVOBcl0sDPJCKN2XEuw7Unch9RhKUxFF5VrkI5LcveRh2qyJwTFswAKO2hA66f9kwHzOTOEwuzs9rpvzsGRWEzZ_BsfLe_7mheec2sgX_cAaS4JO-oOERz214_2cuRKv5bOhvdNwck/s1600/AboutAuthor-Mahsa.png" /></a></div><br />
<hr />Sources<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images (all edits by me):</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://nick-n-steve-stock.deviantart.com/art/chips-n-dip-32700578">chips n dip</a> by <a href="http://nick-n-steve-stock.deviantart.com/">Nick-n-Steve-Stock</a> @deviantArt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://mysticrainbowstock.deviantart.com/art/Olive-oil-bottle-64685214">Olive oil bottle</a> by <a href="http://mysticrainbowstock.deviantart.com/">MysticrainbowStock</a> @ deviantArt</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://cheriznjalapenoz.deviantart.com/art/Bread-103551467"><br />
</a></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-88962517268642779532011-02-24T12:21:00.000-08:002011-02-24T12:21:00.028-08:00The Independent's Guide to Independence ep1: Pantry Essentials<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBs5-86jq7RxkbwWA_H3ELWpNMK7X7fknsZz6otd6eCHVwDsgx93eSk5pur6Zy_UUKbnGoMiVest48shGjT-8ZoNoR4_vur1jF3vnn9d-_3swSviFlOB983Vcv679q_jAXi6U-QwJ2c0/s1600/article-pantry-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBs5-86jq7RxkbwWA_H3ELWpNMK7X7fknsZz6otd6eCHVwDsgx93eSk5pur6Zy_UUKbnGoMiVest48shGjT-8ZoNoR4_vur1jF3vnn9d-_3swSviFlOB983Vcv679q_jAXi6U-QwJ2c0/s1600/article-pantry-header.png" /></a></div>First, I apologize for the short hiatus! I've been moving houses and so getting everything ready, getting internet, moving furniture...For anyone who's ever moved before you know how it's always an epic battle against your own sanity.<br />
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Now on to the article! One of the universal signs that you're independent is that you have to <b>feed yourself</b>. I wanted to cover this article first, before I posted any recipes. It covers some definite staples that everyone should have in their pantry. Though a lot of the article may focus on those with a lower budget (ahem, students) I want to focus on items that are basically the foundation to any good meal, regardless of your culinary tastes or expertise.<br />
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<h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIqSNeixKpkMTQH-DwwR5F6qCg86Ck29DgRttIZ-wv61tTcrwMLkSvITqB6irkVLl_Q0QR06Mxt1R8mGAjxQfqaDX2MuD4Fj7uZcF-smUcz-gvQ8wDICbTnUjb3hIEd-az0emWg-0crU/s1600/article-pantry-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIqSNeixKpkMTQH-DwwR5F6qCg86Ck29DgRttIZ-wv61tTcrwMLkSvITqB6irkVLl_Q0QR06Mxt1R8mGAjxQfqaDX2MuD4Fj7uZcF-smUcz-gvQ8wDICbTnUjb3hIEd-az0emWg-0crU/s1600/article-pantry-img1.jpg" /></a>1. Onions & Garlic</h2>The base to almost all dishes, this powerful duo can kick up any meal up a few notches. What's more, they're incredibly cheap. Though grabbing them prepackaged can be convenient, it's always best to make your own selection.<br />
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Look out for <b>those with dry skin</b> and no bruises. These last the longest. Remember, you don't store these in the fridge.<br />
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If you're <b>a big fan of Asian food</b>, it's also a good idea to invest in some <b>Ginger</b>.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLstYUQOL8EDx1Zv825ZlqGN6-td4zPGJwYa1qU5odpdyDEdTU2mflxP0SpAUzif2NLrH4Nd5-frbsvvbBBIptSvNJna8qBMhcrkaD4DnqNY6PC1e_xoXcnOBN0XwMC1CEpIbYVNPmKxI/s1600/article-pantry-img2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLstYUQOL8EDx1Zv825ZlqGN6-td4zPGJwYa1qU5odpdyDEdTU2mflxP0SpAUzif2NLrH4Nd5-frbsvvbBBIptSvNJna8qBMhcrkaD4DnqNY6PC1e_xoXcnOBN0XwMC1CEpIbYVNPmKxI/s1600/article-pantry-img2.jpg" /></a><br />
<h2>2. Herbs & Spices</h2>These can be a little pricey, dry or otherwise. However, they're definitely worth the money as the flavour they bring to any dish is irrepraceable. When cooking with herbs, people don't tend to garnish <b>enough</b>. Don't be hesitant. Be <b>bold and brave</b> when working with herbs and spices. When working with dry spices, remember however that you need less of it than you would if you were working with fresh ingredients.<br />
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Buying a rack of dry spices not only provides a great storage solution, but many come with samples of the herbs already.<br />
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To start off however, you can work with the staples: <b>Parsley, Coriander, Oregano, Rosemary, Sea Salt, Ground Pepper, Paprika </b>and <b>Cumin</b>.<br />
<h2>3. Pastas, Rice & Cereal</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UvIxOEHV3W_8S0_IyHmdrydEzqBfi3ak2tijavNUJQOv8Wk7vJr7Xm8KNYZ1t6ltFJhAqlt5UH6ph47bpIpzGF8Zkxc2RQttwsS9krcY84oA-pDfX9OgyoTH2GOT-WhuEVc3N09onGM/s1600/article-pantry-img3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UvIxOEHV3W_8S0_IyHmdrydEzqBfi3ak2tijavNUJQOv8Wk7vJr7Xm8KNYZ1t6ltFJhAqlt5UH6ph47bpIpzGF8Zkxc2RQttwsS9krcY84oA-pDfX9OgyoTH2GOT-WhuEVc3N09onGM/s1600/article-pantry-img3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Get a variety: think penne, spaghetti, linguine, lasagna and shells. My personal favourite is capellini - or angel hair pasta. As for rice, basmati covers most bases though for the health conscious out there, you can't go wrong with brown rice.<br />
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Cereal is almost everybody's favourite breakfast dish for its taste and quick preparation. Putting some in ziploc bags gives you a great snack for throughout the day to keep hunger at bay. <br />
<h2>4. Canned...</h2><b>Beans, tuna, tomatoes, soup</b>. These are affordable and great quick-meal fixes. Canned tomatoes can act as a base for your pasta (don't forget to add <b>sugar</b> to counteract the acidity!), tuna can jazz up any salad and beans work great as a side. I also like buying sardines and clams, though, if you're not a fan of seafood, you can stay away from those picks.<br />
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While these are rarely canned, <b>chicken, vegetable </b>or <b>beef broth</b> are other smart buys that act as foundations for lots of recipes.<br />
<h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ebTXK-mHFfKBIH-zWYzDqDuD3b0ArslSTDhOLy6R6bYtYO8zMhw4mr7JPCSBb1XMMRTtBUYZp3ktsSauisMNoescQrCWaGFFgMS8xnV4fskx1yEI16AkPVPKJcLM_h4Ilui41Q6K9zQ/s1600/article-pantry-img4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ebTXK-mHFfKBIH-zWYzDqDuD3b0ArslSTDhOLy6R6bYtYO8zMhw4mr7JPCSBb1XMMRTtBUYZp3ktsSauisMNoescQrCWaGFFgMS8xnV4fskx1yEI16AkPVPKJcLM_h4Ilui41Q6K9zQ/s1600/article-pantry-img4.jpg" /></a>5. Baking goods</h2>Anyone can bake. I'm a firm believer in this and when you have the tools, baking can be fun and the results are often incredible<br />
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<b>Sugar</b> (brown and white), <b>flour</b>, <b>baking powder</b>, <b>baking soda</b>, <b>cocoa</b>, <b>vanilla extract</b> are the basics, along with a variety of your favourite nuts such as <b>almonds</b>, <b>walnuts</b> and <b>hazelnuts</b>.<br />
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<b>Baking soda </b>also acts as a double agent, working to keep your fridges and cat litter smelling clean, removing stubborn baked on spots in your casserole dishes, pans or stove top and even cleaning discoloured mugs, jugs and coffee carafes.<br />
<h2>6. Oils & Sauces</h2>As a general rule, if you want to add flavour to your cooking, <b>Extra virgin olive oil </b>is the way to go. Otherwise, steer clear from olive oil and go for a vegetable oil or sunflower, canola oils.<br />
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Soy sauce, fish sauce always jazz up Asian dishes. Other sauces that are handy in a jiffy are your favourite <b>BBQ sauce</b>, <b>Sweet n Sour sauce</b>, and a good all purpose savoury sauce for your grilled culinary masterpiece when you're tired of the BBQ sauce.<br />
<h2>7. Breads and/or wraps</h2>Though this isn't necessarily kept in your pantry, bread can be kept out or in the fridge so you can keep it for longer. Wraps are great alternatives to sandwiches as they can be loaded with great fillings with <b>minimal mess</b>.<br />
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For bread that's gone hard and stale, tear them up, pop them into a blender and voila! <b>Your own homemade breadcrumbs</b> perfect for fried chicken, casseroles and more!<br />
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For the rest in this series <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/p/independents-guide-to-independence.html">click here</a>.<br />
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Have a great one!<br />
<br />
x<br />
<br />
<hr />Sources<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">All edits by me</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://destruct-stock.deviantart.com/art/can-stock-46752642">can stock</a> by <a href="http://destruct-stock.deviantart.com/">destruct-stock</a> @ deviantArt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://orzel.deviantart.com/art/Garlic-176267467">Garlic</a> by <a href="http://orzel.deviantart.com/">Orzel</a> @ deviantArt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://chennyho-stock.deviantart.com/art/Young-parsley-51719677">Young parsley</a> by <a href="http://chennyho-stock.deviantart.com/">Chennyho-Stock</a> @ deviantArt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://somadjinn.deviantart.com/art/Odd-Pasta-Out-81037270">Odd Pasta Out</a> by <a href="http://somadjinn.deviantart.com/">somadjinn</a> @ deviantArt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://oddbjrnk.deviantart.com/art/Shake-n-bake-1-112666909">Shake'n bake 1</a> by <a href="http://oddbjrnk.deviantart.com/">oddbjrnk</a> @ deviantArt </span> </div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-3541131131000051992011-02-14T12:27:00.000-08:002011-03-16T22:25:38.316-07:00[CLOSED] 88+ Follower Giveaway!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">This is my heart felt thank you to all of you who have supported me during the conception of this blog. Every lovely comment and every follow has been an inspiration to keep going! <br />
<br />
I assure you all, there's much more to come: I've got recipes, tutorials, videos, DIYs, tips, tricks and SO MUCH MORE that I'd <i>love</i> to share with you all and I'm so happy you've stuck with me through this ride.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><h2>The Giveaway</h2><table border-color="pink" border="0"><tbody>
<tr><td><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUULtclEEwaVHXyt6rtijTbkXpCmVK5VhJK4j-8o6GU-g8oLT7BTmq-6U8ITyPQOXeUh0bOvyjQGsnkj8UDMawuqd8FL7OxFGU6a1Y-LOFOAKwDSCaslBUg5r9lxZIGQqjSj5eRTooD8s/" /></td><td><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghCiKwYJ1EcnH-1_co-UjxyMt1_m1_-1kEVQlra8KA0ian0l-e1gtihNCvcPUwUMn9X7MxkYWsBOE4lWnskw5QfAPhkbAcjIFETgvQLJzL_977O34J7QyZaZDOKWw_p6KWoQdYQgE6ib4/" /></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top"><br />
<br />
<br />
<center>Purity Made Simple by <b>Philosophy</b> find out more about it <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/01/video-skin-care-concealing-routine-for.html">in this post</a>.</center></td><td><br />
<br />
<br />
<center valign="top">Scrub Your Nose in it by <b>Soap & Glory</b> find out more about it <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/01/video-skin-care-concealing-routine-for.html">in this post</a>.</center></td></tr>
<tr><td><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_cMNMqT_a_7jJrs17LJiWLXm3gXs3LX8o23ynjNqrWueBwQ53agP87Ds5qaLZPofQoAi_C1WGg6W-lCfil_2BHI1FzVd5wPw-SeZXlvGijO7BCfneHH_oe36n9-yMQEz_f4fiIbDF8c/" /></td><td><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgpy7m7f5O1rHOfld1BlBVlMqohfbAT6tO8eoU-ebW7UgvIbG_bcGlrxg_0-SrvzRoIH-c7H_u2Fw034t_3SI_p1VMVlkLPic3pfe5s0Izw0oCKAneWBaH7Kh1uFjHXOiBUwc9p8mzR-A/" /></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top"><br />
<br />
<br />
<center>Off Your Face Cleansing Wipes by <b>Soap & Glory</b></center></td><td><br />
<br />
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<center valign="top">Catch A Wrinkle Day Moisturizer by <b>Soap & Glory</b></center></td></tr>
<tr><td><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7iC9aEG4jaCN22bl_GqIhyphenhyphenBfMnXQTWCTM4RA3Yd_mYZJf7wzh_5TBuHTZHUiTiOoer3MfESzC3GWDDbz3IrSoSUrXewFSROqPAdHwZL8rD7xdxoazDA3gXjRLQTO4AWrc4L8cPlRng90/" /></td><td><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWcCPv-MACE23WCT1zSpIWXTTRqijs3t-TV3i2a9HyRpT_X2takhQs-YRGVeX_A1eT3sqKvlS2oZJuSvs4IuWaUxaddZajmIqvGl2o-qXd6Yz2kc-T1v3DjGjK46Be_ycBOaQDD6bilc/" /></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top"><br />
<br />
<br />
<center>Couture Couture 5ml Parfum by <b>Juicy Couture</b></center></td><td><br />
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<center valign="top">Jiffy Tan by <b>Benefit</b></center></td></tr>
<tr><td><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4E9-6ClAni2oASNbD5qGNaK9ULru2d0NDO4SzUx2XMvICLOAqWdtjU9HdHjUlISM9KmPCWygV_tYgNTh2z6WeejoGyMRLJmUXtnFke2D_WtQ0VIV6r2yv9d2k0TR5rRchT9d8fGL9a0w/" /></td><td><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwuo0Pc3JJbXaMlfiup-K84yutTW85RTfL-s-XUiVn9xDgh35qcWthfVELapEqPAWGM2XOcGFlkN46gU2F4uZ1Mz4GikDBSLGYBn6oqp-YlpqfFS5yt9SlvN39MbQ-vfMeLSQFXVqdv5A/" /></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top"><br />
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<br />
<center>Head to Toe Travel Kit by <b>J.R. Watkins</b> which includes:<br />
+ Peppermit foot cream<br />
+ Aloe & green tea hand & body lotion<br />
+ Mango hand & body lotion<br />
+ Lemon cream body cream (<b>My personal favourite</b>)<br />
+ Aloe & green tea body cream<br />
+ Lavender hand & cuticle salve<br />
+ Lemon hand & cuticle salve<br />
+ Natural beeswax lip balm</center></td><td valign="top"><br />
<br />
<br />
<center>Oil Treatment by <b>Moroccan Oil</b></center></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
As you can see, I featured my <b>Skincare Products</b> as well as my favourite <b>Self-tanner</b> to get us Spring Ready, a great perfume by <b>Juicy Couture</b>, a travel kit for you jet-setters out there and my favourite hair-treatment ever: <b>MoroccanOil</b>.<br />
<h2>The Gist/Important Info</h2><b>1)</b> Closes <b>March 17th</b> (My Birthday! Yes!)<br />
<b>2)</b> Open <b>Internationally</b><br />
<b>3) </b>Shipping will be paid for by <b>me</b>, xNTA<br />
<b>4)</b> Any taxes/fees incurred on the products once they arrive to your location are <b>your</b> responsibility<br />
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<h2>The Rules</h2><b>1) You <i>must</i> be 18+</b> or have your parent's permission to enter this giveaway<br />
<b>2)</b> You <b>must</b> be a follower of this blog. All you have to do is hit that follower button on the right of this entry.<br />
<b>3) </b>To enter, simply fill out the form below (thanks to <a href="http://obsessiveness4makeup.blogspot.com/">Madiha</a> for giving me this idea!) it <b>must include</b>:<br />
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<b>5) </b> For those of you who commented on <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/01/coming-soon-give-away.html">this entry</a> (<b>14th February 2011, 3:30pm ET</b>) and left an e-mail address get <b>3 entries by default</b>! If you commented and did not leave your e-mail, I cannot contact you, you do not get any entries by default, however feel free to submit a form to enter now!<br />
<h3>Extra Points:</h3>Grab the button(s) below and paste into your sidebar/blog post:<br />
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<center><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRefHsnohTbfxvLU1YCVtdrdqfxVWnKP3VTHamzM1lrKMNn8JB_YvoWuqKCZPM5Phi3-SgfAX3_bww2hBu6GBW2MO2bWtWvL0H1iQlqY_hVUJ9wjCOMUxAflpDyckerfTMNfqnytG-13k/" /><br />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">This Giveaway is now Closed</h2><h2 style="text-align: center;">Winner will be announced March 21st 2011</h2>Thank you once again to everyone who participates.</div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-7267274755059296152011-02-11T19:25:00.000-08:002011-02-11T19:25:42.135-08:00[VIDEO] Tutorial: Valentine's - Sleek Nighttime Look<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpWZKB5_fyXv6AgLDLuO-bxr1O2arn-mHsl7RpY5Z1IpafBtH1x5AVNCQkM-M9nzl0S1PMVCx4W7SqLmNL23fS8fW3crVungAHKp5fmMlsgIs4CwA6g-szlLPa3CDhhFs-CO7pesQ-Bc/s1600/article-vdaynight-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpWZKB5_fyXv6AgLDLuO-bxr1O2arn-mHsl7RpY5Z1IpafBtH1x5AVNCQkM-M9nzl0S1PMVCx4W7SqLmNL23fS8fW3crVungAHKp5fmMlsgIs4CwA6g-szlLPa3CDhhFs-CO7pesQ-Bc/s1600/article-vdaynight-header.png" /></a></div><center><object width="480" height="390"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Z6JGgpvzudE?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Z6JGgpvzudE?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="390"></embed></object></center><br />
Valentine's day is a few days away and while I've made a <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/02/video-tutorial-valentines-sultry.html">daytime look</a>, I wanted something more for a nighttime date that was easy to do, classic yet edgy.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>My solution was a twist to the classic cat-eyeliner with the perfect nude lip - because <b>red on Valentine's Day has been done</b>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbd82LEU3ZGzoCb528NohM58lRPVMdaGOl1Q4MYaK5YYeqNuqAP5Cg3xrG_GWIhq1eMf_wvxLRS4NBjgdalzHvvdakfapd27PAF0AfqmyVUXK4W5n1TEPXuFMtCxeK_dIfhWP-lgiDEGU/s1600/article-vdaynight-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbd82LEU3ZGzoCb528NohM58lRPVMdaGOl1Q4MYaK5YYeqNuqAP5Cg3xrG_GWIhq1eMf_wvxLRS4NBjgdalzHvvdakfapd27PAF0AfqmyVUXK4W5n1TEPXuFMtCxeK_dIfhWP-lgiDEGU/s200/article-vdaynight-img1.jpg" width="155" /></a>I'm a huge fan of <b>minimal skin</b>, with a soft dewy glow coupled with bronzer as a contour.<br />
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I've always loved cat-eyeliner but I really wanted to add a dash of mysterious by <b>smoking out</b> the bottom lashes. The skin, coupled with my favourite <b>nude lip look</b> really draws all the attention to the eyes.<br />
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I really didn't use many products for this look, just one <b>Sephora </b>eyeshadow palette, a single shadow by <b>MAC</b>, a liquid liner by <b>Gosh Cosmetics</b> and mascara (<b>Liner Effect </b>by <b>Bourjois</b> yet again!) for the eyes:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVPh8J1E0eVJ_axs6pfwkXguNjtNMx_ucBw2O4T2PjjSc8OhZ165zvbCEPr0pqSmCeNzDBd2MowIwf1PZIlDtur3SMOb0gDmc1uoaUgRZHj8R0J4zGDmAM08yw1EYgpadqYYCU2kzECg/s1600/article-vdaynight-img2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVPh8J1E0eVJ_axs6pfwkXguNjtNMx_ucBw2O4T2PjjSc8OhZ165zvbCEPr0pqSmCeNzDBd2MowIwf1PZIlDtur3SMOb0gDmc1uoaUgRZHj8R0J4zGDmAM08yw1EYgpadqYYCU2kzECg/s1600/article-vdaynight-img2.jpg" /></a> This <b>Sephora </b>palette has all your basic neutrals and has pretty excellent colour payoff:<br />
+ Silver (top left)<br />
+ Gold (top right)<br />
+ Gun metal (middle left)<br />
+ Copper (middle right)<br />
+ Liner-Black (bottom shadow) <br />
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for this look in particular, I used the <b>Gold</b> and the <b>Liner Black</b>.<br />
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If I did re-do this look however, I would probably have opted for a <b>more intense</b> <b>black shadow</b>. While this is an excellent palette in my opinion because of its subtlety (and I'm all about the neutrals and a natural looking makeup), I did end up having to use a <b>cream-liner</b> to really darken up the lower lid.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXkljqM8ciz14UWJAa_iiU522LAArlC17glcqh6w-6wgn_csD4QjvJK2ShsHTcKmBLJ8bjAC9VXBwh7BEOsBTvLkYfAGTw-pb7iFPqnKdWwR7JrxIOgcquEPSQAc1LBKO7Bqzuw46gGN0/s1600/article-vdaynight-img3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXkljqM8ciz14UWJAa_iiU522LAArlC17glcqh6w-6wgn_csD4QjvJK2ShsHTcKmBLJ8bjAC9VXBwh7BEOsBTvLkYfAGTw-pb7iFPqnKdWwR7JrxIOgcquEPSQAc1LBKO7Bqzuw46gGN0/s1600/article-vdaynight-img3.jpg" /></a></div>I then smoked it out and diffused the black using my favourite <b>MAC </b>shadow of all time: <b>Satin Taupe</b>.<br />
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It's a wonderful deep, cool brown colour that is wonderful with any skin tone. I don't really think I've got to go in too much detail with this one since I've heard it is possibly one of the most popular <b>MAC </b>shadows out there and is pretty much a staple in almost everybody's palette. Well, I am <i>definitely<b> </b></i><b>a huge fan</b> of this great, slightly shimmery colour that can set off any eye colour.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC1zSew0ZogN6wpkcL4GqF4vAQVpHoDp_GMBrJgtdEI90I-YPyAbzc_JBt2_uM9dBcDluRG8R5q1EfDJX3m1hq-8bOqPxsmQFpGGkv409RXW1563mPxi1gCKBn0rPAyPTXkko8cAHVPuQ/s1600/article-vdaynight-img4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC1zSew0ZogN6wpkcL4GqF4vAQVpHoDp_GMBrJgtdEI90I-YPyAbzc_JBt2_uM9dBcDluRG8R5q1EfDJX3m1hq-8bOqPxsmQFpGGkv409RXW1563mPxi1gCKBn0rPAyPTXkko8cAHVPuQ/s1600/article-vdaynight-img4.jpg" /></a>Next, I used a <b>Black Liquid Eye Liner</b> by <b>Gosh Cosmetics</b>. I was at my local Shoppers' Drugmart one day and needed a replacement for my liquid eyeliner. I tried swatching all the drugstore brands but was left completely unsatisfied. Most of them came in closed packages so I couldn't even test them out.<br />
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Luckily, I spotted this particular liner and swatched it and was instantly impressed.<br />
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The <b>felt tip </b>application is great for those who are beginners or really love thick liner application. It glides on easily, the colour is truly an intense black and has incredible staying power.<br />
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Unfortunately it is not waterproof which I think is its only downfall. Despite this fact however, unless you're caught in a torential downpour, not much really moves this liner.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3nyvLQBK5K8gvHhFzQ8FQPx_PwaP-yP1WP-nI_vAZElyaoYJCCdcgp7bxBEbIl3ALsUbBL5R0_bqApGH-EFM1aMpZnj-cNP0DIfGznIbmpjc2FqDIcbxS3GoeBrO7aDAsS6y7scw96Ks/s1600/article-vdaynight-img5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3nyvLQBK5K8gvHhFzQ8FQPx_PwaP-yP1WP-nI_vAZElyaoYJCCdcgp7bxBEbIl3ALsUbBL5R0_bqApGH-EFM1aMpZnj-cNP0DIfGznIbmpjc2FqDIcbxS3GoeBrO7aDAsS6y7scw96Ks/s1600/article-vdaynight-img5.jpg" /></a></div>After the <b>contouring</b> comes my much loved highlighters: <b>Pearl Frost Cream Colour Base </b>by <b>MAC</b> and <b>Mineral Glow Pearls </b>in <b>Beige Pearl</b> by <b>Physician's Formula</b>.<br />
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Always follow up a cream product with a powder to <b>lock it in</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8j9hoC9DK-DbGqZjoyhEfiPH3B0Ij9ccjginW9GOP0gnBnwTI4HnCyg0yZenfdu_XACCmX8wFGC0xGmQL9O0dUchmf2Oez7gt0q4HCatEnSsmKcX5fLgxlRY3OPxts0x9HCag9ugVNg8/s1600/article-vdaynight-img6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8j9hoC9DK-DbGqZjoyhEfiPH3B0Ij9ccjginW9GOP0gnBnwTI4HnCyg0yZenfdu_XACCmX8wFGC0xGmQL9O0dUchmf2Oez7gt0q4HCatEnSsmKcX5fLgxlRY3OPxts0x9HCag9ugVNg8/s1600/article-vdaynight-img6.jpg" /></a>Physician's formula is a surprisingly underrated drugstore brand that has some pretty excellent makeup. I am absolutely in love with their highlighters and bronzers and their <b>eyeshadows are divine</b>.<br />
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For the lips, I used a base to really erase and neutralize my natural lip colour which will allow whatever colour I put on top to really shine true.<br />
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This is a great trick for those with a pretty strong natural lip colour and really wants their pinks to show pink and their peaches to show peaches and their nudes to show nude. If you don't have a base, try <b>a little bit of concealer</b>.<br />
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Because the lips can look a little washed out, I did also put some <b>lip liner</b> to redefine the edges that were lost when putting on base or concealing.<br />
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Atop of that I put my number one most favourite nude lip gloss: <b>Love Gloss </b>by <b>The Body Shop</b> in <b>04</b>.<br />
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And that's it!<br />
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Hope this was helpful, and hope you all have a happy Valentine's day! For any questions or comments, go ahead and leave me a note below!<br />
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Have a great one!<br />
x<br />
<hr />Disclaimer:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I am not affiliated with any of the products mentioned above in any way. I have not been paid by them and all products I mention have been bought by me.</span><br />
Sources:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images - All images were taken and edited by me</span><span id="goog_1795809750"></span><span id="goog_1795809751"></span></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-23416556674028585942011-02-08T16:03:00.000-08:002011-02-08T22:49:01.776-08:00Hair SOS - Saving Your Dry, Brittle, Damaged Hair<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzIkONQ2W6cz2ZArvgeEeI8vutphtMz4y825RcjTTrLu__FzTybaQtkZm2jFQA8BTCRJykzQYKsZOWroJlLKZJzicfeCj14P5SlRWnl-QBNPirCQ75GnjNGXfVM5J0EMyF6TvgoLhA7ds/s1600/article-hairSOS-copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzIkONQ2W6cz2ZArvgeEeI8vutphtMz4y825RcjTTrLu__FzTybaQtkZm2jFQA8BTCRJykzQYKsZOWroJlLKZJzicfeCj14P5SlRWnl-QBNPirCQ75GnjNGXfVM5J0EMyF6TvgoLhA7ds/s1600/article-hairSOS-copy.png" /></a></div>Hello everyone. My name is Ann-Margaret. I am a hair-dye addict *insert awkward waving and nodding here*.<br />
<br />
There was a while there where I would dye my hair about once a month. My natural hair colour is dark dark brown almost black with a red undertone and so lightening it left it coppery which needed <i>further</i> treatment using de-brassing agents.<br />
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I have always been terribly vain about my hair and all the styling, dying and fussing about with it has led to basically one thing: <b>horrible, awful damaged ends</b>. I've also been growing my hair out, so read on and find out the steps I've been taking to <b>bring life to these seemingly dead ends</b>.<br />
<a name='more'></a><h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh79TMcb3HkXb54akyiyPxEjeRJ0bluEw_GxBjafYQ09upTDRKbyxrwVhAM7xU_lwBgOwuRN0X9G3BCo7feRI6K0Wvf8BnUG2KHQ291BzUFrxQCwbnk6BGp88xIwC-KhZkc1A9O3F7lp0M/s1600/article-hairSOS-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh79TMcb3HkXb54akyiyPxEjeRJ0bluEw_GxBjafYQ09upTDRKbyxrwVhAM7xU_lwBgOwuRN0X9G3BCo7feRI6K0Wvf8BnUG2KHQ291BzUFrxQCwbnk6BGp88xIwC-KhZkc1A9O3F7lp0M/s1600/article-hairSOS-img1.jpg" /></a>1. The perfect Shampoo/Conditioner</h2>Next to a healthy diet almost nothing is more important for your hair than what you use in it while washing it. In general I like to <b>wash my hair every other day</b>. Washing your hair every day is excessively drying and terrible for it.<br />
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Choose shampoo that's made specifically for your hair type. If you've got coloured hair, <b>get shampoo and conditioner that's made specifically for colour treated hair</b>. It's really that simple. Shampoos and Conditioners are formulated differently depending on what kind of needs you have. I personally spend ages in the shampoo aisle stressing over which shampoo to get but really, in the end, I grab what type I need and then pick between brands that are known for their reliability and also, the fragrance.<br />
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<b>Dove's Damage Therapy System </b>is a very impressive line of products. The line is pretty much all encompassing, from styling gels to moisture replenishing sprays. The conditioner is probably my favourite of all time.<br />
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Alternatively, <b>Pantene </b>has come out with a new line that smell wonderful and have a pretty easy-to-use system for: Fine, Medium-Thick and Curly hair.<br />
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If you've got a shampoo that you already love then by all means, stick with it. If you feel however, it's not really giving your hair the support you need, hop over to your local drugstore and get a little adventurous with your shampoo and conditioner. Lots of shampoos and conditioners come in <b>Travel sized samples</b> that you can buy and just try out. Give it a go: you might just find yourself falling in love with your hair all over again.<br />
<h3>For those of you with oily hair and can't go a day without washing your hair:</h3>I suffer from the same issue. Or at least I did. It might sound strange, but being a dye-addict has given me <b>bipolar hair</b>. It's incredibly dry on days that it's been washed and then the very next day it's <b>grease galore</b> yet stays dry and brittle at the very ends. Washing my hair every other day was torture for me for a while because of the uncomfortable feeling of greasiness.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0QmR8oeWCUbr9TbFsrlPfe6MWtLF2jaILK1MjTcikGeluZPuzYO41KGpIC6jmlkejwbBayekMNkfQrWzBfnjqxr47Ng8bTcQMZ6wUfU8sLu_vKTnBbFh66mzakxXMmIVprzB8ZX6WcOE/s1600/article-hairSOS-img2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0QmR8oeWCUbr9TbFsrlPfe6MWtLF2jaILK1MjTcikGeluZPuzYO41KGpIC6jmlkejwbBayekMNkfQrWzBfnjqxr47Ng8bTcQMZ6wUfU8sLu_vKTnBbFh66mzakxXMmIVprzB8ZX6WcOE/s1600/article-hairSOS-img2.jpg" /></a></div>Turns out however, <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/01/video-skin-care-concealing-routine-for.html">just like your skin</a>, your scalp overcompensates for the dryness caused by <b>over-washing</b> by producing excess oil. By not washing every day, you avoid drying out your scalp and eventually you will find that your hair is less greasy the day after a wash.<br />
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However, if you still need a little extra help with that grease, invest in some <b>dry shampoo</b>. Dry shampoo is an excellent product that absorbs excess oil from your hair leaving you feeling clean and fresh without having to wash your hair.<b> </b>Both <b>Boots</b> and <b>Batiste</b> make excellent dry shampoos, with the one made by Boots having the added bonus of being almost fragrance free, in case the smell most dry shampoos have bothers you.<br />
<h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOFKtQL2UlHRF2kYvEyeqhC5OeLIVTChdbAGP1kcqUoTFV9cXaM59M-FaI6fQd1hhdZky0Bghyphenhyphen9BI5rLtXCuOu3mIxG8MddB78oTMhLMibZe29rJerzs-ifjv79rYGT24tS6PW7w15Ds/s1600/article-hairSOS-img3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOFKtQL2UlHRF2kYvEyeqhC5OeLIVTChdbAGP1kcqUoTFV9cXaM59M-FaI6fQd1hhdZky0Bghyphenhyphen9BI5rLtXCuOu3mIxG8MddB78oTMhLMibZe29rJerzs-ifjv79rYGT24tS6PW7w15Ds/s1600/article-hairSOS-img3.jpg" /></a>2. Always use protection</h2>Styling your hair is wonderful but can bring with it many trials. Minimizing damage lies in 3 things: <b>Technique </b>(never ever run your straightener over and over again on one section of hair. This, my friends, is Hair-o-cide), <b><a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2010/12/4-must-have-hair-tools-for-babes-on.html">Your Styling Tool</a></b> and <b>Protection</b>.<br />
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Always use <b>heat protectant</b> when styling your hair with hot tools. Heat protectants help form a barrier that protects your hair from burning and further damaging ends.<br />
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<b>TRESemmé </b>has long been a favourite within the blogosphere simply because it does its job well <i>and</i> has the added bonus of smelling fantastic. <b>CHI </b>also offers a wide and excellent range of heat protectants from sprays to serums but may be a little pricier.<br />
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This of course, is no substitute to <b>giving your hair a break once in a while</b>. Rock those curls every now and then, put the hair dye away and let your hair dry naturally. <br />
<h2>3. Condition, Condition, Condition...</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihnFq9qxUBPs8AUVLnjGHz2M5ZKIGsEhX3HCMwCvXRW2yLDsTfr3YO0jYMW4S6UfPoIeq8noRxYI_NUbYy4YnGoUXWKbh_wi6OHWvaZuNTTKMI5Js8u5SUvsgoVwj6bXGEvfV2cE6lBA/s1600/article-hairSOS-img4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihnFq9qxUBPs8AUVLnjGHz2M5ZKIGsEhX3HCMwCvXRW2yLDsTfr3YO0jYMW4S6UfPoIeq8noRxYI_NUbYy4YnGoUXWKbh_wi6OHWvaZuNTTKMI5Js8u5SUvsgoVwj6bXGEvfV2cE6lBA/s1600/article-hairSOS-img4.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbOFYLSKZP1s6x7gJ_B7TANa3wVEbiXvBG7XUlD9iL8e0Ru-Icq9Po3aXFCRZjfvzMDW2uw1jqL4BQ_0QrUnykb2tK6HrwjMTc9d-xmxnzDVaNOHmptWf6wdru5NZNetOIc9Lfl3P8Ks/s1600/article-hairSOS-img6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbOFYLSKZP1s6x7gJ_B7TANa3wVEbiXvBG7XUlD9iL8e0Ru-Icq9Po3aXFCRZjfvzMDW2uw1jqL4BQ_0QrUnykb2tK6HrwjMTc9d-xmxnzDVaNOHmptWf6wdru5NZNetOIc9Lfl3P8Ks/s1600/article-hairSOS-img6.jpg" /></a></div>Leave in conditioners, hydrating sprays and oil treatments are the way to go if you've got dry hair. My <b>personal loves and saviours</b> are the <b>Dove Daily Moisture Hydrating Spray</b> and <b>Morrocanoil</b>. Both leave my hair feeling silky and my ends less bristle-like.<br />
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With any leave-in conditioning treatment, try to concentrate on your <b>ends</b>. This is because your scalp may already produce oils (which you can redistribute throughout the rest of your hair using a <b>boar bristle brush</b>) and may not need the hydration as much as your ends.<br />
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Rub the product between your hands and then apply to just the tips. When the majority of the product has been rubbed into your ends, run your fingers through your hair for extra sheen.<br />
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Weekly treatments using items you can <b>find in your kitchen</b> are always fantastic and <a href="http://ellemakeupblog.blogspot.com/"><b>Elle </b>from <b>Elle's Makeup Blog</b></a> has a fantastic article on <a href="http://ellemakeupblog.blogspot.com/2011/02/homemade-hair-treatments-review.html">homemade hair treatments</a> that's great for all budgets, if splurging on hot oils is just not for you.<br />
<h2>4. And of course...</h2><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiKGFz2nA4GsXB3jBx003TqMgKJ85t-KmHF245t34zeJU3NixSNDZFxqyOwGVjeEohyphenhyphenDrTKNzV5Qf5zLTYtsg6wQHn55d17Zg-boemF1yqajcQ2oK1nXaGGINHnOT3Za-JgfJunWKGoY/s1600/tip1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiKGFz2nA4GsXB3jBx003TqMgKJ85t-KmHF245t34zeJU3NixSNDZFxqyOwGVjeEohyphenhyphenDrTKNzV5Qf5zLTYtsg6wQHn55d17Zg-boemF1yqajcQ2oK1nXaGGINHnOT3Za-JgfJunWKGoY/s1600/tip1.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify; width: 168px;">If you hear pulling and tearing when you brush your hair, you're probably doing just that: ripping out your hair.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Get yourself a trim every now and then, about every 4-6 weeks. I know I know! Getting trims is basically a traumatic experience for anyone who has ever <b>tried to grow their hair out</b>, went to the hair dresser's, asked for a trim and got <b>five inches cut off</b>. Trust me. I've been there. But sometimes, no amount of conditioning and protecting can salvage what is already irreparable<br />
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Give very <b>explicit instructions</b>. Show them with your fingers how much you want off, and have them cut off how much you want on just a small section of hair - this way <b>nothing gets lost in translation</b>.<br />
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Still haven't convinced you? Well, if you're the type whose <b>hair never seems to grow</b>, this may just be your best option. Everybody's hair grows at different rates, but rest assured that everybody's hair grows, even yours. If you find no discernible difference in length with your hair for <b>months</b>, what's actually happening is that <b>your ends are breaking off</b>. You're basically getting a free hair cut, courtesy of your damaged ends that have lost the will to hang on and so just fell away. So trim your hair to start with fresh(er) ends and start taking better care of your tresses.<br />
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It's just hair. It'll grow back. I promise.<br />
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Have a great one!<br />
x<br />
<hr />Disclaimer:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I am not affiliated with any of the products mentioned above in any way. I have not been paid by them and all products I mention have been bought by me.</span><br />
Sources:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images - All images were taken and edited by me</span></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-49768150107606806332011-02-03T17:24:00.000-08:002011-02-11T19:29:33.365-08:00[VIDEO] Tutorial: Valentine's - Sultry Daytime Look<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncVUeRX4Jie7BadZZzxSujfxpgGg-hgY6etyOiq9aZGWc-sz2wVUaALX5cjlnHYbwTDuC0XqJzmBVT2vM8wiUgO9jgvF6GEp5XvfiL_pgPHoFNnHkaI7CSIlD6zfkLLNCLY-V74mHyQ8/s1600/articleheader-vdaytime-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncVUeRX4Jie7BadZZzxSujfxpgGg-hgY6etyOiq9aZGWc-sz2wVUaALX5cjlnHYbwTDuC0XqJzmBVT2vM8wiUgO9jgvF6GEp5XvfiL_pgPHoFNnHkaI7CSIlD6zfkLLNCLY-V74mHyQ8/s1600/articleheader-vdaytime-header.png" /></a></div><br />
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<center><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GXzy1cLFB5A?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GXzy1cLFB5A?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></center><br />
It's that time of the year again, and though it may not be a favorite of many - all those chocolates, roses and hearts everywhere could make one positively ill - it is however, a great day to play with makeup!<br />
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<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zHr2G4xJ9GutiWir6aLrFJcqDmsdlqBjTiL4rjST4TDWYFhmaQUTACzEJReZZzRV8cBU4Z5wmOmhcCxJVj7W8485y833DmobTAZP3x00d_kI6JUhO1mbnBjSvlVG_ICPtNFzw4_21Jg/s1600/article-vdaytime-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zHr2G4xJ9GutiWir6aLrFJcqDmsdlqBjTiL4rjST4TDWYFhmaQUTACzEJReZZzRV8cBU4Z5wmOmhcCxJVj7W8485y833DmobTAZP3x00d_kI6JUhO1mbnBjSvlVG_ICPtNFzw4_21Jg/s1600/article-vdaytime-img1.jpg" /></a></div>I wanted to recreate a soft, almost dreamy look with an emphasis on two things: your <b>lips</b> and <b>eyes</b>.<br />
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<b>Skin</b> was kept minimal - just your basic moisturizing followed by concealer where you need it.<br />
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For the eyes, <b>I wanted a soft, smokey, dusky look</b> using deep reds and warm browns.<br />
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For the lips I used a deep cherry almost grape colour as a stain, focusing on the center of the lips to create that <b>"Just-been-Kissed"</b> look.<br />
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The whole thing put together is a great daytime straight to nighttime look, that has you looking like you've been <b>lavished with attention all day</b> and are ready to be worshiped some more.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlDGWVK-Ko3p9XayIMH2p45TLb3c8EjiJq0OTkXLQBfjGSiCc1oV0BaIOw0lUhTFjToaVLYX3nB9modwo0AtEfqMGuizuqBQuyrkp_ekhQsPtZqtAzr1RYdFs9-ABu3K8D4pwU2sR2QSY/s1600/article-vdaytime-img2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlDGWVK-Ko3p9XayIMH2p45TLb3c8EjiJq0OTkXLQBfjGSiCc1oV0BaIOw0lUhTFjToaVLYX3nB9modwo0AtEfqMGuizuqBQuyrkp_ekhQsPtZqtAzr1RYdFs9-ABu3K8D4pwU2sR2QSY/s1600/article-vdaytime-img2.jpg" /></a></div>I used <b>Revlon Illuminance Crème Shadow </b>in <b>Moonlit Jewels</b> as a base for the eyes. Specifically, the gold and followed by the red to create a warm base for the look.<br />
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I absolutely love these colours and though they do have a tendency to crease terribly, if put over an <b>eyeshadow primer</b> and then followed up by a powdered shadow, you won't have that problem.<br />
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Remember, <b>Cream Eyeshadows should always be followed by powdered eyeshadows to prevent creasing</b>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTv4F67qHNos7F955H6SSbt-ZJuwMg97xauGCHXWmxZ-1tR-um7dJMQ8TJDZgq1fSDVkt-uopStCKTtEd5fcDa9PVLO7UQz86h9s3Baong74D00ynB46ym8UXM6o4b11N7J6RSa69KJyc/s1600/article-vdaytime-img3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTv4F67qHNos7F955H6SSbt-ZJuwMg97xauGCHXWmxZ-1tR-um7dJMQ8TJDZgq1fSDVkt-uopStCKTtEd5fcDa9PVLO7UQz86h9s3Baong74D00ynB46ym8UXM6o4b11N7J6RSa69KJyc/s1600/article-vdaytime-img3.jpg" /></a></div>On top of that, I used two colours from the <b>Lacy Afternoon Eternal Imagination Eyeshadow Palette</b> <b>Spicy Mocha</b> by <b>Red Earth</b>.<br />
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Specifically a shimmery, warm brown over my cream shadows and a light, shimmery off-white as a highlight colour.<br />
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I really do love this palette as it includes a beautiful vibrant purple and a deep midnight blue. Colour pay off for this product is fantastic as well.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho3CCdpjWi62To8hMnpgtFwKEgRwTVblZEePUWJgq9eFSfcZk42lgHZkZoOre-giloK962wLOUaO3RSVfQfST_qAulBVElXE9u8a_2Xr3hDUotXyzQ6jfVBta7M-yZVUDxn16MBYp_fX0/s1600/article-vdaytime-img4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho3CCdpjWi62To8hMnpgtFwKEgRwTVblZEePUWJgq9eFSfcZk42lgHZkZoOre-giloK962wLOUaO3RSVfQfST_qAulBVElXE9u8a_2Xr3hDUotXyzQ6jfVBta7M-yZVUDxn16MBYp_fX0/s1600/article-vdaytime-img4.jpg" /></a></div>I followed up with a cream liner (I used a cream liner by <b>Quo</b> in <b>Black Velvet</b>) which I smudged out using the same brown from the Red Earth palette, smoking it out slowly with my brush.<br />
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Blending is a very slow but important process for me so I really <b>take my time</b>. I've said it before and I'll say it again: The difference between <b>good</b> makeup and <b>great</b> makeup is in the blending.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrn-0pDNyM4AP6xoIhngpoi3nCF2cWSdvNr-WYMTM_4wiT3i3DOoa-6ZAIeEpd82s52mioviZxXvlj3jFvX-qR2DTJpw0OtnenNLNSfMkpo9kp6ihxb5AhyIZdLw2KdG65yTSAYZxuYTM/s1600/article-vdaytime-img5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbclKaOGw30Be3dCIgarPxWJm7Ap-FJ8CMSOHTd4AIr3ik6GHQWscb17WqTeTVVUFCOoVSOfTMhAgGAQSymg820WEorZT2DFKTZEtxMtdirUvL5NG6ZQwsqdQYy_3ZGYas7dC0ygXwtIY/s1600/article-vdaytime-img5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbclKaOGw30Be3dCIgarPxWJm7Ap-FJ8CMSOHTd4AIr3ik6GHQWscb17WqTeTVVUFCOoVSOfTMhAgGAQSymg820WEorZT2DFKTZEtxMtdirUvL5NG6ZQwsqdQYy_3ZGYas7dC0ygXwtIY/s1600/article-vdaytime-img5.jpg" /></a>I really wanted to deepen that red, so using the gorgeous, coppery, rusty red from the <b>Maybelline Eyestudio </b>palette in <b>Irresistibly Ivy</b>, I applied that to the outer corners of my eyes to really bring warm up the look.<br />
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Finally, eyelashes were curled, mascara was applied and the eyes are basically done.<br />
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I used my favourite mascara, <b>Liner Effect </b>by <b>Bourjois</b>. <br />
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This look does do wonderful with fake lashes, but if you'll be wearing it <b>throughout the day</b>, opt out and then maybe add the lashes before you go on your date or whatever else you have planned for the night.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7MGsARchyphenhyphenkqIvf-7FOmRyZDtbdx5YUasUhLSEKVnwMC-dZPt4xBoXuxlG-gkwGbIzHQQeJmc0q5ZWCkrmDPlu80VhlF8R5Spc_c4lf6s4MNKgiEgIMzMtbNpNtYYxZwcjVyueCKMbaTI/s1600/article-vdaytime-img6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7MGsARchyphenhyphenkqIvf-7FOmRyZDtbdx5YUasUhLSEKVnwMC-dZPt4xBoXuxlG-gkwGbIzHQQeJmc0q5ZWCkrmDPlu80VhlF8R5Spc_c4lf6s4MNKgiEgIMzMtbNpNtYYxZwcjVyueCKMbaTI/s1600/article-vdaytime-img6.jpg" /></a></div>For the lips, I used my favourite lipstick: <b>Deepest Wish</b> by <b>MAC</b>, a deep wine colour that I often pair with a purple-blue lipgloss for an intense-lip look.<br />
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For this look however, I toned it down by just really rubbing the product into my lips to create a stained effect. The little subtle colour right at the center of the lips really plays off the eyes and I even used just a little of the lipstick to <b>stain my cheeks</b> to bring out a bit more colour in my face.<br />
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And that folks, is basically it!<br />
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If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments section below.<br />
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Have a great one!<br />
<br />
x<br />
<hr />Disclaimer:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I am not affiliated with any of the products mentioned above in any way. I have not been paid by them and all products I mention have been bought by me.</span><br />
Sources:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images - All images were taken and edited by me</span></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-74416868093699317552011-01-31T22:00:00.000-08:002011-01-31T23:35:47.327-08:00[Guest Post] Eat Happy!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: right;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkaDgnkTjBXPFzyoqRI9zlnzpJbKeMPJggMCpv8mtkPgZVU8W4H_QIhmUEZleq7q0I2fsxBNuJ4TAdVlbLk8WAR64Dd3QjjyFZOdcMKVrPvBEVdUE2mgl-WX-U44BqhqLDVstrKi5EySQ/s1600/article-eathappy-header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkaDgnkTjBXPFzyoqRI9zlnzpJbKeMPJggMCpv8mtkPgZVU8W4H_QIhmUEZleq7q0I2fsxBNuJ4TAdVlbLk8WAR64Dd3QjjyFZOdcMKVrPvBEVdUE2mgl-WX-U44BqhqLDVstrKi5EySQ/s1600/article-eathappy-header.png" /></a></div><h3>by Mahsa A</h3><b></b></div>Everyone’s obsessed with diets, calories, carbs and fat content. But we rarely ever hear what’s good for maintaining a healthy diet that helps with old age, healthy skin, sleep and even a cold or the flu.<br />
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Well here are a few tips that I have picked up over the years, through articles, TV, Radio, friends and of course, my mom.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYEx148VUYGyOEd-5dwlwAXgc1WcU6Z21HUOIad9CYxzivOv47brIUFg2SaCUAlFli7XXWNXMncoYSRn8fPCy0SjrdLK-Zlin5WyOCttTESqed6CxmtQhyphenhyphenoM8LCtf5mUZNFcdZCibsg8/s1600/article-eathappy-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYEx148VUYGyOEd-5dwlwAXgc1WcU6Z21HUOIad9CYxzivOv47brIUFg2SaCUAlFli7XXWNXMncoYSRn8fPCy0SjrdLK-Zlin5WyOCttTESqed6CxmtQhyphenhyphenoM8LCtf5mUZNFcdZCibsg8/s1600/article-eathappy-img1.jpg" /></a></div><b>Red meat</b> is delicious but unfortunately (and like so many other delicious things) it has so many negative effects on your body. And those negatives heavily outweigh the positives. I cut down my red meat consumption to once or twice a month and am hoping to cut it out of my diet completely.<br />
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Ever since I have done this, I have lost some weight, my skin is clearer and healthier looking and I am definitely seeing a positive difference in my health and eating habits in general. <br />
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<b>But what's so terrible about red meat anyway? </b><a href="http://environment.about.com/od/health/a/red_meat_mad.htm">An article by Larry West on About.com</a> perfectly explains just why I try to avoid red meat. Specifically:<br />
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<blockquote>...Nutritionists hardly need more evidence about the potentially negative health effects ofeating red meat. For starters, the saturated animal fat in red meat contributes to heart disease and atherosclerosis. Recent research also shows that frequent red meat eaters face twice the risk of colon cancer as those who indulge less often. Red meat is also thought to increase the risks of rheumatoid arthritis and endometriosis.<br />
Meanwhile, according to the American Dietetic Association, vegetarian diets can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, colon cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, kidney disease, hypertension, obesity, and other debilitating medical conditions. While red meat is a key source of protein and vitamin B12 in North American diets, nutritionists explain that properly planned meat free diets easily provide these important nutrients while keeping you healthier in the long run.</blockquote><br />
I know, I know! I love burgers and steak too (sad face) but here’s a tip: if a turkey burger is made right it’s just as delicious and lamb (if its flavour doesn’t bother you) is less harmful than beef.<br />
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You should also look into permanently switching to <b>brown sugar</b>. It is always the better option under all circumstances. Even though it takes more of it to sweeten things (because it's natural) it is still better than the controversial and heavily processed artificial sweeteners and of course, white sugar which has been processed and bleached<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmNhTPh032x9Q16k4uHJBxY1qtinvnRtpfe-S0W_irFSW3LRi8X3p-i6973llTl8PnWylvAX0xCSnj0ufuuwpEobB-mfzVI3Yp_dGcsQwhRMiWfwESpTz9XGV8UKgOh-8UwIHWhk-uJo/s1600/article-eathappy-img2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmNhTPh032x9Q16k4uHJBxY1qtinvnRtpfe-S0W_irFSW3LRi8X3p-i6973llTl8PnWylvAX0xCSnj0ufuuwpEobB-mfzVI3Yp_dGcsQwhRMiWfwESpTz9XGV8UKgOh-8UwIHWhk-uJo/s1600/article-eathappy-img2.png" /></a></div>On a similar note, avoid <b>white bread</b>. When flour gets refined it loses its fiber, the majority of its minerals and vitamins and also its much needed fatty acids. Only iron, niacin, thiamin, riboflavin and folic acid are legally required to be added back in so about 25 other essential nutrients are missing. Basically 1 piece of whole wheat bread has the same amount of fiber as 8 pieces of white bread.<br />
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Aim for breads that don’t have high fructose corn syrup contents. <b>It is always important to read Product Labels very carefully</b>. Try to avoid high fructose corn syrup wherever possible. Not only is this a high calorie ingredient, it also increases the risk for type 2 diabetes and raises cholesterol levels. The documentary <i>King Corn</i> is a good source of information on the subject.<br />
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<b>If you can't afford organic/natural products</b>, a great rule of thumb is to read the backs of products that <i>are </i>within your budget and pick the ones that have the least amount of chemicals and if possible not high fructose corn syrup.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicz0tGczn-fhXf-UHkeu2faUWh8IVPkLOtoOWj6M3anne_RgecSpMgHBzqSCdXTBGbb7jnwXGMb4sK5-HF8DNq6xZdGM2Oxn5LyL3NlcQXP5OYR94N__G5gT7oHLReA67MK8jJiu0LEfc/s1600/article-eathappy-img2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicz0tGczn-fhXf-UHkeu2faUWh8IVPkLOtoOWj6M3anne_RgecSpMgHBzqSCdXTBGbb7jnwXGMb4sK5-HF8DNq6xZdGM2Oxn5LyL3NlcQXP5OYR94N__G5gT7oHLReA67MK8jJiu0LEfc/s1600/article-eathappy-img2.jpg" /></a></div>Here's a popular tip that we can all enjoy: a small amount of <b>dark chocolate</b> everyday is good for you, which is true scientist are saying that it can help stabilize high blood pressure, maintain good blood flow and it’s said to help with good heart health. However make sure to <b>avoid eating any when it's close to bed time</b>, because it has the same effect as coffee. Even a small piece of chocolate can keep you up for hours on end.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTvMXRu9ODH8c4dbJSFsy-JBXzh7N6s54Wj800lLRgLbbqI69O8G_-lJVwepGvg0_Igj4TgGss3M3GkBAsgBLlpmEL3LQqOrlnuGIcNsV0JJXaflXMfC1OJlGytp-iMxrE_LJwoSOg84/s1600/article-eathappy-img4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTvMXRu9ODH8c4dbJSFsy-JBXzh7N6s54Wj800lLRgLbbqI69O8G_-lJVwepGvg0_Igj4TgGss3M3GkBAsgBLlpmEL3LQqOrlnuGIcNsV0JJXaflXMfC1OJlGytp-iMxrE_LJwoSOg84/s1600/article-eathappy-img4.png" /></a></div><b>Fruits and veggies</b> are of course, always the best - but this doesn't mean you have to eat broccoli all the time! I try random stuff in the produce section every time: some I like and buy again and some I don't. If you are too lazy or don't have enough time to make a salad like myself then buy the readymade ones.<br />
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Even if you don't like eating them, several fruits and vegetables can <i>still </i>work wonders on your skin. Specifically, the inside peels of most fruits and vegetables can be rubbed onto your skin which will absorb all the nutrients. <b>Avocado</b> is one that I would highly recommend.<br />
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Finally we get to the nasty flu season demon. When you're sick, even though <b>orange juice</b> is great and yes drink lots of it, but try drinking 4 to 5 big classes of natural pineapple juice as well. <b>Pineapple</b> has great healing properties as it has bromelain and vitamin C which work together to aid your immune system and is also said to help with arthritis and digestion. I remember when my sister got major surgery done, my mom made her eat so much pineapple after her surgery that compared to anyone else I had seen before and anyone since who had undergone similar procedures, she healed in almost record time.<br />
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I hope my tips help you with having a healthier diet.<br />
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Until next time, much love from your personal eat happy consultant, Mahsa A.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuaW4t3b_UDvKH3mdNuHTQDOV9rlwr3WYKpYn3PIVb2S8jSHAFUM7LK1LYVsKA8wtjmGEOGXLzccuMkTdImfa2FwSRmgpH_3hQfNYRA7gMzNy_WPXpo9kY3FauN8wUa7wt4iOabDltMCg/s1600/AboutAuthor-Mahsa.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuaW4t3b_UDvKH3mdNuHTQDOV9rlwr3WYKpYn3PIVb2S8jSHAFUM7LK1LYVsKA8wtjmGEOGXLzccuMkTdImfa2FwSRmgpH_3hQfNYRA7gMzNy_WPXpo9kY3FauN8wUa7wt4iOabDltMCg/s1600/AboutAuthor-Mahsa.png" /></a></div><hr />Sources<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images (all edits by me):</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://denitorious.deviantart.com/art/TriColor-114753002?q=boost:popular%20in:resources/stockart/food&qo=5">TriColor</a> by <a href="http://denitorious.deviantart.com/">Denitorious</a> @deviantArt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://helmuc.deviantart.com/art/Fast-Food-Burger-135268343">Fast Food - Burger</a> by <a href="http://helmuc.deviantart.com/">helmuc</a> @ deviantArt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://cheriznjalapenoz.deviantart.com/art/Bread-103551467">Bread</a> by <a href="http://cheriznjalapenoz.deviantart.com/">Cheriznjalapenoz</a> @ deviantArt </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://bakerygirl-stock.deviantart.com/art/Chocolate-110058818">Chocolate</a> by <a href="http://bakerygirl-stock.deviantart.com/">BakeryGirl-stock</a> @ deviantArt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://vacuumslayer.deviantart.com/art/Swim-in-Produce-3-140160318">Swim in Produce 3</a> by <a href="http://vacuumslayer.deviantart.com/">vacuumslayer</a> @ deviantArt</span></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-29163342442988244792011-01-27T16:38:00.000-08:002011-01-30T13:53:18.117-08:00[VIDEO] Skin Care + Concealing Routine for Flawless Skin<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1ywN02y8aA20ZlckV6Fgvgrtbz9HMSDtWDnTJJdlypu2rNaYmtiPjR6dq1amVZHMAnvVLyd9jyKtN_YL0GtowsMbP4CVZr9S-LAIq-0GO-zWTxufd_d3PrLpFLKpdJ8YipRYdYWAAlw/s1600/articleheader-skincare.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1ywN02y8aA20ZlckV6Fgvgrtbz9HMSDtWDnTJJdlypu2rNaYmtiPjR6dq1amVZHMAnvVLyd9jyKtN_YL0GtowsMbP4CVZr9S-LAIq-0GO-zWTxufd_d3PrLpFLKpdJ8YipRYdYWAAlw/s1600/articleheader-skincare.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SMBmgn_Kjmk?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/SMBmgn_Kjmk?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><br />
I previously asked what you guys wanted to see in terms of my next video tutorial, and I got a lot of questions about my <b>skin care routine</b>. I got a lot of compliments about my skin, and while I'm terribly flattered, I need to set the record straight: I do <i>not</i> have flawless skin.<br />
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Having said this however, I am quite happy with how my skin is now because I used to suffer from <b>acne</b>. I have to stress that <b>I am not a doctor</b>, and everyone's skin is different. The products that I use may not necessarily work for you. However, in this article I talk about the basics for getting healthier, clearer looking skin.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><h2>Cleansing</h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhExnuOYPcSTWiFdsIEU4NnZZIi6XFbnWf5ucjGaVn07TBFnQDQvhJR8V_2YMYUUSPjKmjixXQ9SFEITsz5pftdmM4SDug0LZCt_z4qNudQwTs260A2BagKq25r_j2WkUqJEct30_Hq3rM/s1600/article-skincare-img1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhExnuOYPcSTWiFdsIEU4NnZZIi6XFbnWf5ucjGaVn07TBFnQDQvhJR8V_2YMYUUSPjKmjixXQ9SFEITsz5pftdmM4SDug0LZCt_z4qNudQwTs260A2BagKq25r_j2WkUqJEct30_Hq3rM/s1600/article-skincare-img1.jpg" /></a>I cannot stress enough, how important this step is. No matter how much makeup you put, if your skin is not fresh and clean, you are basically just slathering make up on dirt. Make up is not supposed to be used as a mask - it's supposed to be used to enhance your features. All you'll be doing is <b>enhancing dirt</b>.<br />
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I use <b>Purity </b>by <b>Philosophy</b>, and I can't begin to tell you how this product has become my savior. Not only is it great for <b>all skin types</b>, it also acts as a Toner <i>and </i>a Makeup Remover. It is strong enough to really dissolve all that dirt, but gentle enough to use around the eyes - and therefor, I don't need a separate makeup remover for my eye makeup. It truly is a dream!<br />
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Please <i>do not</i> use cleansers on your eyes that do not specify that you may do so. They may be too harsh. Remember, the skin around your eyes is the most delicate part of your face and is prone to wrinkling and sagging. If your cleanser says "Avoid using around eye area", you had better listen.<br />
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For day time, I like to use this product while <b>in the shower</b>. The steam from the shower opens up your pores, allowing the product to really get into your skin and do its job. <br />
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I know sometimes it can be a hassle to wash your face before bed time, especially after those <b>late nights out</b>. Keep a batch of cleansing cloths by your bed for times like these. That way, all you have to do is grab one of these babies and wipe away the <b>grime of the night</b>. Invest in a good brand that also doubles as a moisturizer. <u>You now officially have <i>no</i> reason to be sleeping in your makeup!</u><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA61gtzDyw0TO79V2DW1IL502TSUJWJsk7A04v4WmnPY7mfRERD7MQFeHb6FpiTusvSZxrsNBDUAkDIouGEfb_GZz90p8SHjpQPBGzYTlt_3hEV_-Sz88CHHFPqwQbRfqktksLiHXV8Hk/s1600/article-skincare-img2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA61gtzDyw0TO79V2DW1IL502TSUJWJsk7A04v4WmnPY7mfRERD7MQFeHb6FpiTusvSZxrsNBDUAkDIouGEfb_GZz90p8SHjpQPBGzYTlt_3hEV_-Sz88CHHFPqwQbRfqktksLiHXV8Hk/s320/article-skincare-img2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I use <b>Off-Your-Face</b> by <b>Soap & Glory</b>, a UK company. It can be found at <b>Boots</b> drugstores or <b>Shoppers Drugmart</b> for those of you living in Canada.<br />
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I absolutely <i>adore</i> this brand, for its great packaging, great product and last but not least: its amazing prices. Their line is truly amazing, and you'll see me mentioning their products <i>a lot</i> in this article. But rest assured, I am <i>not</i> affiliated with them in any way. I just happen to be a huge fan of their products!<br />
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<h2>Exfoliating</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIBJwoSeT2yFQKp5eMRDiexrsrsmX7Obhynsy4oB5Ved9dPrI8FMPPvqyM4V4ptUWEnVOfqaPtlgHiOveTSQVAsvD-micjJMz3MRrnRqxBSAJyWHgqWTcHysWGsu4uTaVGFaVd8rtfqI/s1600/article-skincare-img3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIBJwoSeT2yFQKp5eMRDiexrsrsmX7Obhynsy4oB5Ved9dPrI8FMPPvqyM4V4ptUWEnVOfqaPtlgHiOveTSQVAsvD-micjJMz3MRrnRqxBSAJyWHgqWTcHysWGsu4uTaVGFaVd8rtfqI/s1600/article-skincare-img3.jpg" /></a></div>Over time, you may find that you get a build up of dead skin cells on the surface of your skin, which causes a dull, uneven complexion. Something that is definitely <i>not</i> conducive to that healthy, inner-glow look you're aiming for.<br />
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I tend to exfoliate about twice a week, more during winter months when my skin goes dry and I find my skin is shedding quite unattractively.<br />
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For exfoliating, I use <i>another</i> product by <b>Soap & Glory</b> called <b>Scrub Your Nose In It</b>. You have <i>got</i> to love their packaging! What's so great about this particular product is that it's a 2-in-1 (why yes, I do love products that can multi-task). You can use it as an exfoliator and a masque. I tend to only use it on just my blemishes and not all over my face because it does dry the skin out but if you've got <b>oily skin</b> this might just be your next favourite product!<br />
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I dab it on my blemishes and leave over night for an instant zip-zapping effect.<br />
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<b>However</b>, I have to say this now: Do Not Over-Exfoliate. Please, Please, Please, be gentle on yourself and on your skin. I understand that sometimes (I used to be plagued with <b>acne </b>remember???), temptation is to just slather on the exfoliator and scrub your face off. Please. Do NOT try to scrub your skin off. Be <b>gentle</b>. Over-exfoliation irritates your skin leading to <b>more blemishes</b>, <b>irritated skin</b> and quite possibly, <b>scarring</b>.<br />
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<h2>Moisturizing</h2>Everyone, and I mean it when I say it, <i>everyone</i> needs a good moisturizer in their arsenal. Yes, that includes you guys with oily skin.<br />
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Why? Simple. People with oily skin tend to use products that dry their blemishes and skin out. If you don't follow these treatments up with a moisturizer, your skin is alerted to the sudden dryness and will try to <b>overcompensate</b> by producing excess oils. You see, your skin just reacts to how it's feeling. It doesn't know that you don't <i>want</i> those excess oils. It thinks you need it. That excess oil, along with all that dirt you didn't wash off from the night before is just going to come together in perfect harmony producing <b>pimples and blackheads</b>.<br />
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So yes. You need to moisturize, no matter what your skin type.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW57UY65_NjoR4-c2TV3ixCH7VzRdYHAXZSzXcjVDPUQKgGrg1Glnituffpv6MUhSJlyYPAQBpiCsOb6ns35srRL5Pvrhmho8qnUXqqVu3NhQI5J0cEewRQfHu8oWIzCVA9KpsgHLzGj0/s1600/article-skincare-img4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW57UY65_NjoR4-c2TV3ixCH7VzRdYHAXZSzXcjVDPUQKgGrg1Glnituffpv6MUhSJlyYPAQBpiCsOb6ns35srRL5Pvrhmho8qnUXqqVu3NhQI5J0cEewRQfHu8oWIzCVA9KpsgHLzGj0/s1600/article-skincare-img4.jpg" /></a></div>I use <b>Catch A Wrinkle</b>, an anti-wrinkle cream. I know I'm only in my early 20's, but I believe that the best cure is <b>prevention</b>.<br />
<h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSjp-GSApKB_Knv9HfIqZB1CiElmAGsqK9UmszLCxK_Zq8HxQE-SBlvukiCzL4OQe5jEVxGbp5fUCehNjb2DRUDyHR8e0gtw6kkYxpS3vwBrkR6UIo9ptyUIsEJ3yyt787p8m2AwAF6UQ/s1600/article-skincare-img5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSjp-GSApKB_Knv9HfIqZB1CiElmAGsqK9UmszLCxK_Zq8HxQE-SBlvukiCzL4OQe5jEVxGbp5fUCehNjb2DRUDyHR8e0gtw6kkYxpS3vwBrkR6UIo9ptyUIsEJ3yyt787p8m2AwAF6UQ/s1600/article-skincare-img5.jpg" /></a>Concealing</h2>Like I mentioned in the Video above, we can all be tempted into just smothering our faces with concealer and foundation when we break out.<br />
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Stop. Put that concealer down for a second.<br />
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Make up is used for <i>enhancing</i>. <b>You shouldn't be using it as a mask to hide behind</b>. Having said this, let your natural skin really shine through. If you have blemishes, cover <i>those</i> up. Not your face. You're gorgeous. Let's all see it.<br />
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There are several types of concealers, but those that come in stick or pot form are best for concealing huge blemishes.<br />
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I use <b>Hide the Blemish Concealer </b>by <b>Rimmel London</b>. Find a concealer that is close to your skin colour or foundation colour, if you're using foundation. You will be using it <i>after</i> foundation. This way, you'll be using less concealer - you won't be left with that cakey-too-much-make up look.<br />
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And that's about it! If you've got any questions or any more requests, feel free to leave them below.<br />
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Thanks for all the support guys!<br />
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Have a great one! x<br />
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<hr />Disclaimer:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I am not affiliated with any of the products mentioned above in any way. I have not been paid by them and all products I mention have been bought by me.</span><br />
Sources:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images - All images were taken and edited by me</span></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-91186139779708151222011-01-27T12:57:00.000-08:002011-01-27T13:28:52.505-08:00My First Award!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXrICgAkhkLLtpcEQ7-D7KD1OHIIhV_bdkS_rVKnejSm2k6OwPOMPuFhcNSCb52dAs-NtwNwtIJvkS6nWWpuvx8Qi5CLjl_9iQiUkAjWMC7J2CaN96M2C6YX7By6OpaQvMqT6tTskZZg/s1600/article1header+copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXrICgAkhkLLtpcEQ7-D7KD1OHIIhV_bdkS_rVKnejSm2k6OwPOMPuFhcNSCb52dAs-NtwNwtIJvkS6nWWpuvx8Qi5CLjl_9iQiUkAjWMC7J2CaN96M2C6YX7By6OpaQvMqT6tTskZZg/s1600/article1header+copy.png" /></a></div>I can't believe I've received my very first award from the lovely <a href="http://obsessiveness4makeup.blogspot.com/">Madiha! Check out her wonderful Blog!</a><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_IEAhnybVhHc/TTaQ8K4_OlI/AAAAAAAAANg/BuGuVWf2zWI/s320/versatilebloggeraward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_IEAhnybVhHc/TTaQ8K4_OlI/AAAAAAAAANg/BuGuVWf2zWI/s320/versatilebloggeraward.jpg" /></a><br />
<u>Rules:</u><br />
Thank the person who gave you the award and link back to them in your blog<br />
Tell us 7 things about yourself<br />
Award 15 recently discovered new bloggers<br />
Contact these bloggers and let them know they've received the award!<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<h2>7 Things About Myself:</h2><b>1.</b> I am scared of birds. Deadly afraid of them. I'm talking, full on phobia. This includes their feathers and their dead bodies. I can eat chicken and turkey though, unless I actually see them with their heads + feathers + feet on beforehand. I will not go near cooked pigeon, no matter how "tasty".<br />
<b>2.</b> I am a huuuuge nerd, and love to write <b>fanfiction</b>. Yes. I write <b>fanfiction</b>. *face palm*<br />
<b>3.</b> English is my first language, though once upon a time I used to be able to speak Tagalog. I have forgotten Tagalog and am now pretty good at <b>Arabic</b> and <b>French</b><br />
<b>4. </b>I grew up in <b>Dubai</b>, <b>United Arab Emirates</b><br />
<b>5.</b> I have been in <b>Toronto</b>, <b>Canada</b> for the last 4 years finishing up my degree in Physical Anthropology, Biology and Psychology at the University of Toronto<br />
<b>6.</b> I actually rarely ever wear make up<br />
<b>7. </b>I don't believe in <b>Denzel Washington</b><br />
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<h2><strike>15</strike> 7 Bloggers I award this to (in no particular order, and I know it's not 15 but I haven't been active in the blogosphere long enough to know 15 blogs):</h2><b> </b>Alex @ <a href="http://alltheprettystuff.blogspot.com/">All the Pretty Things</a><br />
Juicy Lady @ <a href="http://juicyinla.blogspot.com/">Juicy in LA</a><br />
Zoe @ <a href="http://prettydiamondsolitaire.blogspot.com/">Diamond Solitaire</a><br />
Sara @ <a href="http://sarahassansblog.blogspot.com/">Sara Hassan's Blog</a><br />
Leia @<a href="http://www.leiasdelights.com/"> Leia's Delights</a><br />
Kendra @ <a href="http://pieceofcakepeaceofmind.blogspot.com/">Piece of Cake. Piece of Mind.</a><br />
Jenny @ <a href="http://skinniegenes.blogspot.com/">the skinnies</a><br />
<br />
Thank you once again to <a href="http://obsessiveness4makeup.blogspot.com/">Madiha</a>! You really made my week/month! :)<br />
<hr />Sources:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images -<a href="http://browse.deviantart.com/resources/stockart/?q=trophy&order=9&offset=48#/d25eph"> Comedy</a> by <a href="http://rykos-stock.deviantart.com/">rykos-stock</a> @ deviantArt.com</span></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-80298616511342003102011-01-21T22:10:00.000-08:002011-02-11T19:29:33.366-08:00[VIDEO] Tutorial: Everyday Brown Smokey Eyes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ue4uwJUZWh_ZJwPxmMtXEXmRO2q7XmY_Zzpy95cvJEYaebrJesWI4vNc8U_Zfiw06wdwxROSrq070hfCffLwkv0rtx-MUh711W_CCtEsP-Y6zch8ugkDEFxp0hCV8LzFGfyROGrrjds/s1600/article1header+copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ue4uwJUZWh_ZJwPxmMtXEXmRO2q7XmY_Zzpy95cvJEYaebrJesWI4vNc8U_Zfiw06wdwxROSrq070hfCffLwkv0rtx-MUh711W_CCtEsP-Y6zch8ugkDEFxp0hCV8LzFGfyROGrrjds/s1600/article1header+copy.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Ha_8cfGoLAM/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ha_8cfGoLAM?f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ha_8cfGoLAM?f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><br />
Products used are listed below: <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>Eyes:</b><br />
L'Oréal Wear Infinité Studio Secrets - 806 Canyon Stone<br />
Bourjois Liner effect mascara (waterproof formula)<br />
<br />
<b>Face:</b><br />
MAC Blush in Posey<br />
<b> </b>MAC Blush in Fleur Power<br />
<br />
<b>Lips:</b><br />
Forever 21 Lipgloss (I unfortunately have no idea what the name is)<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b> </b>Anyway, hope you guys enjoyed it! If you have any comments/questions/suggestions/requests please don't hesitate to let me know! I'm really excited and I know I made a bunch of mistakes, but it's a learning process!!!<br />
<br />
Have a great one!<br />
x</div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-59440369662262223352011-01-19T16:02:00.000-08:002011-01-30T13:54:55.830-08:00Saving Face: Beauty in the Sky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJVwWf0rAX8KcKRFqwJhmcxZR_gEH2MfQJH52HqWAE4yhuOoHlP-YJ5aH1j-DVkZd-td99z1WQyTHFmgWarjeJ6SeKAShfzS34yJb5NNrk-gW7WzsKGxIyD-OeWPF1z-gOtmYW84A4ys/s1600/article1header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJVwWf0rAX8KcKRFqwJhmcxZR_gEH2MfQJH52HqWAE4yhuOoHlP-YJ5aH1j-DVkZd-td99z1WQyTHFmgWarjeJ6SeKAShfzS34yJb5NNrk-gW7WzsKGxIyD-OeWPF1z-gOtmYW84A4ys/s1600/article1header.png" /></a></div>As some of you may know, I travel frequently between Dubai and Toronto. While the traveling itself is a wonderful thing, the 12-14 hour journeys in an airplane is decidedly <i>not</i>.<br />
<br />
So what do I arm myself with during these flights when two pieces of carry-on is all that's permitted?<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><h2>1. You've got to keep Glowing</h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD5hqPv5OZcw52iE9Tf_pRIK5ZmqJDMOdy_5x85v9iDyMulpg0fh99Qb0-wF3AmMF1jz205svn2S0AiJkwPNxgsu9l-EBmgkR0h8_jc0y-MCTr0CEbMhPwRuQZUuP0M7iihAVf9ie8Y7g/s1600/glass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD5hqPv5OZcw52iE9Tf_pRIK5ZmqJDMOdy_5x85v9iDyMulpg0fh99Qb0-wF3AmMF1jz205svn2S0AiJkwPNxgsu9l-EBmgkR0h8_jc0y-MCTr0CEbMhPwRuQZUuP0M7iihAVf9ie8Y7g/s1600/glass.jpg" /></a><b>Water. Water, Water, Water.</b> I cannot stress this enough. I bring a large sports bottle with me that I ask the cabin crew to fill and make it a goal to drink at least 4 refills throughout the flight (this is when getting an aisle seat is a WONDERFUL idea). I drink nothing <i>but</i> water. I do occasionally drink juice but stay away from anything with dairy (gas in the sky? no thanks) or caffeine (which will just dry you out all the more). Alcohol is, by default, off limits for me as I don't drink.<br />
<br />
I'm in the sky for about 14 hours so I like to make good use of my time in the air. Time to whip out my Mini Spa! I make sure I have a clean face to start with and then use <b>Baléa Deep Cleansing Face Mask </b>and <b>Baléa Hydrating Mask</b>. These are available at Shoppers Drug Mart for about 3 for CA$5.00 during sales though they are normally cheap regardless - this is what's available to me, you can use what's available to you (just make sure you're not allergic to any ingredients, it would be a bad time to break out in an allergic reaction in the middle of a flight!). They come in handy little sachets that can last up to 3 applications each. I keep them on for 30 minutes each and wash them off or use <b>Face Cloths</b> to wipe them off.<br />
<br />
I follow this up with a <b>good moisturizer</b>. It's a good idea to drop by to your local drugstore or Sephora and grab yourself some samples or even travel sized bottles of your favourite moisturizer. If you can't, then what I like to do is use empty lip gloss containers and fill them with my face moisturizer. Any small container will do - make sure it closes properly so you don't end up with a mess.<br />
<br />
<h2>2. Landing: Get Paparazzi Ready</h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzm0x1dtHLCW90zqaWQwOUh3hDdWQyNC3SK8MdzPfJmLVhYO9zlceuTIiERDJxUhi0RWbE0JxAxlkWNjhKfs6KMEPE0L_D0JbG-X-QQmNPV2Kj-rAxwsDoXpcdcYzb7HcvGSLx_2GlHec/s1600/quotefly.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzm0x1dtHLCW90zqaWQwOUh3hDdWQyNC3SK8MdzPfJmLVhYO9zlceuTIiERDJxUhi0RWbE0JxAxlkWNjhKfs6KMEPE0L_D0JbG-X-QQmNPV2Kj-rAxwsDoXpcdcYzb7HcvGSLx_2GlHec/s1600/quotefly.png" /></a>Usually, the first thing on our minds after landing is finding a suitable place to collapse and the <i>last</i> thing would be whether your har looks good or not. But, if you're like me and what to look fabulous for whoever picks you up (be it a complete stranger in the form of a cab driver, your dad or your significant other) then a detour in an airport bathroom is decidedly in order.<br />
<br />
This can be before or after baggage claim. If it's <i>after</i>, pack your make up right on top of everything (i.e. last) for easy access, otherwise you can always pack these away in your carry on.<br />
<br />
I've <a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2010/12/4-must-have-hair-tools-for-babes-on.html">previously raved</a> on about the virtues of <b>Velcro Rollers</b>. A quick brush through my hair and then come rollers throughout the crown of my head to bring back life to hair exposed to several hours of dry air and uncomfortable sleeping positions. After this, comes your makeup.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFa5B892XMV32YUIWb_DQ7tNAHr2hUpQXkgL5Vg1anegWt7ncLt22NQQetPerKwI1xdWc5nk07JiEWZ16PbLML5RsY2kSYD7UjB6CnDfFqw6HLRFW6ZN9PLQ4f5y9kEBVgyNJo7dGsePQ/s1600/hairplanetips.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFa5B892XMV32YUIWb_DQ7tNAHr2hUpQXkgL5Vg1anegWt7ncLt22NQQetPerKwI1xdWc5nk07JiEWZ16PbLML5RsY2kSYD7UjB6CnDfFqw6HLRFW6ZN9PLQ4f5y9kEBVgyNJo7dGsePQ/s1600/hairplanetips.png" /></a>If you've kept up with your water, moisturized enough and slept enough, you shouldn't even need make up. However, everyone needs a picker upper now and then. <b>Concealer</b> where you need it, <b>mascara</b> and <b>blush/bronzer </b>to give you that "Are you <i>sure </i>you've just spent hours on an airplane"-Look and you're DONE<b>. For Extra OOMPH: </b>Define those brows and add a nude lip gloss.<br />
<br />
Gently take out those rollers, give your roots a light tease and you should look <b>Camera Ready</b>!<br />
<br />
<h2>3. Keeping Comfortable</h2>While looking great is wonderful, it is also important to keep <b>comfort</b> in mind as well. As far as keeping comfortable goes, airplanes are almost always frigidly cold. I always have a sweater with me and a pair of really <b>thick socks</b>. I have also recently begun bringing a pair of sweat pants (gasp! in public? I know. The horror) which I change into once I get into the plane and then out of an hour before landing. This way, I get to wear my jeans and not feel incredibly uncomfortable during a flight. Opaque leggings work well in this case too.<br />
<br />
Try to carry as little things as possible on your flight. Bring a book if you think you'll read it - most flights come with an amazing array of movies to watch (especially long haul flights) and you'll find that if the lights are dimmed it becomes uncomfortable to read. Those personal lights you can turn on can really bother those around you. Ixnay the laptop. From my experience, people <i>rarely</i> ever get any work done and unless your flight has a wi-fi connection, your laptop is useless and will just weigh you down. Only bring it along if you feel that you don't trust to leave it with the rest of your luggage. Think Practical. <b>Bring only the essentials with you. You aren't going to be living on the plane after all!</b><br />
<br />
<b>Take frequent walks</b> around the plane, keep your circulation going. Stretch everything, from your fingers to your toes. I'm not talking about full-on yoga here, but keep yourself moving when you can so you don't get sore.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVfmOiClRV1P5C2_ZsK-7ZtYsEfJmMF_nhJuoUHCQjkgE_FCkW8g3RMHJAFLt8OxFvSj8I_DkoROOK1wThsmS55grWGZ3hXLspkknsswxz74ppMrvUABmufvoYrJqAj7A_pT22wG817vo/s1600/ss1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVfmOiClRV1P5C2_ZsK-7ZtYsEfJmMF_nhJuoUHCQjkgE_FCkW8g3RMHJAFLt8OxFvSj8I_DkoROOK1wThsmS55grWGZ3hXLspkknsswxz74ppMrvUABmufvoYrJqAj7A_pT22wG817vo/s320/ss1.jpg" width="320" /></a>Eat light. While most airlines do keep this in mind when preparing food, stay away from foods you <i>know</i> upset your stomach and be weary of foods that may not normally but may during a flight when changes in pressure wreak havoc on your digestive system. These include beans, dairy and too many carbs that may leave you feeling bloated (particularly when you aren't drinking enough <b>water</b>).<br />
<br />
I do hope these were helpful. What tips do <i>you</i> have to share? I'd love to read about it in the comments section below!<br />
<br />
Have a great one!<br />
<br />
x<br />
<br />
<hr />Sources<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">All edits by me</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://browse.deviantart.com/resources/?q=glass%20of%20water#/dw4o0s">Glass of water 1</a> by <a href="http://photohouse.deviantart.com/">photohouse</a> @ deviantArt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://browse.deviantart.com/resources/?q=airplane%20food#/djakwq">Airplane food</a> by <a href="http://bents-stock.deviantart.com/">BenTs-sTock</a> @ deviantArt</span>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-15792425504736387502011-01-10T02:51:00.000-08:002011-01-10T03:27:13.731-08:00S/S 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3JameSBkt17Up6TiIpmz7VIwkc3KGoaaZ9rD99tDMS6whx0akBnMb3F9G_Ro3zORf_VlfdpeEY9MCLOh7F9akQUAokdplLLRSyVH67Hz4nRpA0Bp5d9UD0GRObdCsv42q1xPG4V40XqU/s1600/article1header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3JameSBkt17Up6TiIpmz7VIwkc3KGoaaZ9rD99tDMS6whx0akBnMb3F9G_Ro3zORf_VlfdpeEY9MCLOh7F9akQUAokdplLLRSyVH67Hz4nRpA0Bp5d9UD0GRObdCsv42q1xPG4V40XqU/s1600/article1header.png" /></a></div>Spring heralds the arrival of colour into our wardrobes - bye bye browns and blacks and say hello to vivid acid tones, feminine washes of floral pink and of course: a lot of White.<br />
<br />
This season is a collision of the feminine, frilly and romantic (think: long elegant lines and lots of draping) with masculine, tailored and edgy (think: clean lines and minimalism)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a name='more'></a><br />
As far as colour, almost anything goes. You have your pastels...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS0QxbZCUJbRwkSw0lR2Su0glE9OlGqva0SpYxxGGuDjbuFB4Y8VlbuHs6oNaj0c9PleuR8CPHMezzgKfmJ_O8qEHXEyS4bU_aCx2Hi9zj-DlbSXZ0W_ebcBUyURHiwcdxFbo7pCJlKfQ/s1600/ss1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS0QxbZCUJbRwkSw0lR2Su0glE9OlGqva0SpYxxGGuDjbuFB4Y8VlbuHs6oNaj0c9PleuR8CPHMezzgKfmJ_O8qEHXEyS4bU_aCx2Hi9zj-DlbSXZ0W_ebcBUyURHiwcdxFbo7pCJlKfQ/s1600/ss1.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div>Your neutrals...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_LRAgt5BzmbRkBh6KlHkM-kwWDoiZxwHhH_VvSVyKTkGM8vsp0gL8SvLMJvcnJOphnXgwP-gXd8g3V88h8RMjHs0YdqaN1lRHvMHG-mQj65MyhBNCS-v272xybC41GgHGczXLvTlnmpg/s1600/ss2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_LRAgt5BzmbRkBh6KlHkM-kwWDoiZxwHhH_VvSVyKTkGM8vsp0gL8SvLMJvcnJOphnXgwP-gXd8g3V88h8RMjHs0YdqaN1lRHvMHG-mQj65MyhBNCS-v272xybC41GgHGczXLvTlnmpg/s1600/ss2.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div><br />
And your acid tones... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPF82pBcG2HcBJZVDZFRhRfFBCZUlKGp2xUGnAN4CGQfd3oF1DTLw3a2TPcvCLiOGCkLAWhjBDKJebNaSX3iwWFnOmK8EvAzWu_20Z-X-ZbLtRwir2x-lBlfe7fsBUaRB3zQGwhRrxtHE/s1600/ss3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPF82pBcG2HcBJZVDZFRhRfFBCZUlKGp2xUGnAN4CGQfd3oF1DTLw3a2TPcvCLiOGCkLAWhjBDKJebNaSX3iwWFnOmK8EvAzWu_20Z-X-ZbLtRwir2x-lBlfe7fsBUaRB3zQGwhRrxtHE/s1600/ss3.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>This season brings the return of rocker chic, denim vests, tribal prints androgynous tailoring and beautiful 50's aesthetics. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BY9tB-Fb9Yp3unD53iKfMf-oCFEUhfu7Gac1WLLNzbTTHIv362w3UUGC6hE8va4UFFSbMyJVj3WKWHuCbZZx179kDAOk3p8c6eRHgNFCbA0_eKQf9tXXjdhLs1Gz45TdQciir6B3C-8/s1600/ss4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BY9tB-Fb9Yp3unD53iKfMf-oCFEUhfu7Gac1WLLNzbTTHIv362w3UUGC6hE8va4UFFSbMyJVj3WKWHuCbZZx179kDAOk3p8c6eRHgNFCbA0_eKQf9tXXjdhLs1Gz45TdQciir6B3C-8/s1600/ss4.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1T0U_k6EMfODr9KiNkhyphenhyphenTZr5YKKwuDg7s_TUn747ZEhgRPtAOp5bJv7E36ZmsTEwOqVHO1uA5GEsTph12D_BvI2LV738mQzM_Dv2ZX7h6kYfVsFg7MEWPT86PF6lypgwuSJbyLf2XAM/s1600/ss5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1T0U_k6EMfODr9KiNkhyphenhyphenTZr5YKKwuDg7s_TUn747ZEhgRPtAOp5bJv7E36ZmsTEwOqVHO1uA5GEsTph12D_BvI2LV738mQzM_Dv2ZX7h6kYfVsFg7MEWPT86PF6lypgwuSJbyLf2XAM/s1600/ss5.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmbIcgOev3Y4A-0HozSc_iDtzmZndqdMIiDqGIcgW4zuuZlubufdb-qGW2acm72QmMjHS2yyPe8fZD0ZhbpaY7Pf_Wxig-P6klqbTFQ89Ql34lmZmv4cPGT1M_tsgVBTqN_BA0Kxmw04/s1600/ss6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmbIcgOev3Y4A-0HozSc_iDtzmZndqdMIiDqGIcgW4zuuZlubufdb-qGW2acm72QmMjHS2yyPe8fZD0ZhbpaY7Pf_Wxig-P6klqbTFQ89Ql34lmZmv4cPGT1M_tsgVBTqN_BA0Kxmw04/s1600/ss6.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLNySAX_wjJUa4_0Of2O4XQC2B0plxxTbg3yCtPyRqlxuxa4QhxdYrnRsw9iCPcrdqu7mTuLE3LaRJvw-ca24Wo2iVSFNvJYvkNUTGb1K93nsNXpNJ03rt-DtFPOi8wIa2iNX4wVVpuU/s1600/ss7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLNySAX_wjJUa4_0Of2O4XQC2B0plxxTbg3yCtPyRqlxuxa4QhxdYrnRsw9iCPcrdqu7mTuLE3LaRJvw-ca24Wo2iVSFNvJYvkNUTGb1K93nsNXpNJ03rt-DtFPOi8wIa2iNX4wVVpuU/s1600/ss7.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlW8y7mRs_CZqPFy83m85RsQmQO-06J4UymwZTcsYZ95HLusASt90YzWbX8m3DSm_DMdbmoreRGx354tPBnPZVEtFSzTUVNDoaCXConF7NgJs9Be6vjdKgbYJ4E0QGvn4sNoOVo2UbV0/s1600/ss8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlW8y7mRs_CZqPFy83m85RsQmQO-06J4UymwZTcsYZ95HLusASt90YzWbX8m3DSm_DMdbmoreRGx354tPBnPZVEtFSzTUVNDoaCXConF7NgJs9Be6vjdKgbYJ4E0QGvn4sNoOVo2UbV0/s1600/ss8.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0YIqrm5EIkzqXf4kcdX7FOxwIcO189JhaGyVLgXKPA0UUk3D08X5_7aXvHwUDaKGs6JZbuXifpojM9TxRPox5l_nLnTpgqZfKKEANkeAC4zLFH87-wLxYvai_diouk1CIlhh-mxOsLgs/s1600/ss3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0YIqrm5EIkzqXf4kcdX7FOxwIcO189JhaGyVLgXKPA0UUk3D08X5_7aXvHwUDaKGs6JZbuXifpojM9TxRPox5l_nLnTpgqZfKKEANkeAC4zLFH87-wLxYvai_diouk1CIlhh-mxOsLgs/s1600/ss3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Whatever trend you choose this season, one thing is for sure: Spring/Summer 2011 is all about classic style that transcends seasons. It's all about key, timeless pieces that will never go out of style.<br />
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Have a great one!<br />
<br />
x<br />
<hr />Sources<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photoshop Brushes :<a href="http://nadinepau-stock.deviantart.com/art/Lace-mix-100612931">Lace Mix</a> by <a href="http://nadinepau-stock.deviantart.com/">NadinePau-stock</a> @deviantART </span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://t.luuux.com/SHKU0?url=http://www.luuux.com/node/2729091"><img height="50" src="http://www.luuux.com/themes/luuux/images/shared-on-luuux.png" width="142" /></a>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-88604838926963633972011-01-07T04:08:00.000-08:002011-01-07T04:16:41.843-08:00Spotlight on Design: Brown & Blue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaU6SS5qApNNcvZPsw7YiNzPBdBDSMIxT4611rMrSLQi4dS3qeV8jbBztM7OltFpaYJjeGlXIpKHas-wMnFVlV8LU_7nKR5sD8Ej8ZLNwdt8ZlWyyYIRam6Akz_klXz6t4wLNZZh5K-J8/s1600/article1header.png" /></div>When it came to decorating my condo in Toronto, I knew that I had to keep things minimal since it wasn't a permanent home, but at the same time, I wanted things to look good - I wanted to come home from a hard day at University and feel *great* about coming to my home away from home.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxavnPmxfdh6zW-84T0p-dzMnSeU9o20a-lzZWy0plVkNSIJV-XB2XA4sA-6EWyHZqKuUIyUZTMtpNqowijoKk3l92J4_wAOiR8wVVUMFGelG6Gg0Jq9Fy-Qhz32CrfbZhw_73Rz1G7uQ/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxavnPmxfdh6zW-84T0p-dzMnSeU9o20a-lzZWy0plVkNSIJV-XB2XA4sA-6EWyHZqKuUIyUZTMtpNqowijoKk3l92J4_wAOiR8wVVUMFGelG6Gg0Jq9Fy-Qhz32CrfbZhw_73Rz1G7uQ/" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK_mEsbEIpbsBfw-CRzqAaEjx95SRs24CRm3U4zIfGdzdU_x_tL1gHkdRlfk4wnSUUxEY-Si6G1VJW1ayiqCX-MoaIAC7uUVt5V0kXM6ZVoNowNEuf3x5mFlIIPBr1MGbY4lW4TL6pH8M/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK_mEsbEIpbsBfw-CRzqAaEjx95SRs24CRm3U4zIfGdzdU_x_tL1gHkdRlfk4wnSUUxEY-Si6G1VJW1ayiqCX-MoaIAC7uUVt5V0kXM6ZVoNowNEuf3x5mFlIIPBr1MGbY4lW4TL6pH8M/" /></a>I really wanted my style to show through when I decorated the space. I wanted a blend of <b>modern lines</b> and <b>classic curves</b>, a mix of masculine and feminine. I wanted anyone to be able to enter the space and feel like it was relatable.<br />
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So, I picked a colour scheme - Brown & Blue. It was a great way to mix all the elements I wanted together. Not really a common colour scheme and I certainly don't believe I was following any trends, but I loved the juxtaposition of the warm and cool colours sort of coming together in perfect synergy.<br />
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Like most condos in the downtown core, I was strapped for space. So I really needed to use just the minimum amount of furniture. I ditched a dining table in favor of 2 stools at the counter.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhVc6fKGqGgtRQPItEjnOA31JnuzI5glfd1HnrPZ4bqSeJil7ftIlmiQY9Vkpwv4Gr1sFVVjz0FT3yE1Zq10u_SJ8mo46C01se8VgjOLe8x0pJcdPocEiuiamQfWr0f5AmWEb-wiOuA8/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhVc6fKGqGgtRQPItEjnOA31JnuzI5glfd1HnrPZ4bqSeJil7ftIlmiQY9Vkpwv4Gr1sFVVjz0FT3yE1Zq10u_SJ8mo46C01se8VgjOLe8x0pJcdPocEiuiamQfWr0f5AmWEb-wiOuA8/s1600/1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I really didn't want to take away from the beauty of the hardwood floors, so I opted out from putting down any rugs whose colours would clash. I <i>did</i> however want to add a bit of texture to the floor and have something that forms an "island" if you will, which would create a mental separation between the living room and my open concept kitchen. My solution came in the form of a gift from my Papa. A cowhide rug.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-fBS6XGEcAgrz0Su1OxUU-6F77G54x1Zg5iyv0qzZRiOGaLApG4UEXPng1QHj_86WTznDnxGNG6bw_jd6PpSLS3d3_ZQKhwbRLFa4AtyCNXBAHxg60ryj8Tb-vYA24FCuWpaXBnIQU0/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-fBS6XGEcAgrz0Su1OxUU-6F77G54x1Zg5iyv0qzZRiOGaLApG4UEXPng1QHj_86WTznDnxGNG6bw_jd6PpSLS3d3_ZQKhwbRLFa4AtyCNXBAHxg60ryj8Tb-vYA24FCuWpaXBnIQU0/" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrrndKkdhCx8GMh-PGhjRrlhuQyDz3JrdZFhzGwhSVlohJ01DJeIswD11QdwLcB-WVHtUFpA2swTGeWhAnKU2FBl5i9fdV7XCzRCdvOzPMafjgasVojurTOzn8amMBY2vRXMMGCOS8OB8/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrrndKkdhCx8GMh-PGhjRrlhuQyDz3JrdZFhzGwhSVlohJ01DJeIswD11QdwLcB-WVHtUFpA2swTGeWhAnKU2FBl5i9fdV7XCzRCdvOzPMafjgasVojurTOzn8amMBY2vRXMMGCOS8OB8/" /></a>Another thing I had to keep in mind was I needed <b>storage</b>. The ottoman I got from Crate & Barrel, is wonderful because it's multi-purpose: it opens up to reveal extra storage and when I am entertaining, it provides extra seating space for guests.<br />
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My couch is another one of these mutli-purpose pieces of furniture. In case of guests <b>it pulls out into a queen sleeper</b>. It, along with my ottoman, has very clean straight edges and lines. Nothing fancy, just your average couch in a warm tan colour. I wanted comfort and I got it. I really wanted it to contrast with my <b>victorla </b>and the beautiful sideboard I found at a closing-down <b>antique shop</b> for a <b>steal</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZYKlGY5U5vhgJzHaz7vHDVdHP6KYIqm3zFXB3zBK3gezV-b8NqsSkldVFXHpv-NJkCulXnzJcR9D0R2xKrN4w0Y8Jf9MisaUOetl2FqSareG1dLF3Va6qXZR8FFMTXiReNY54bXUbxc/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZYKlGY5U5vhgJzHaz7vHDVdHP6KYIqm3zFXB3zBK3gezV-b8NqsSkldVFXHpv-NJkCulXnzJcR9D0R2xKrN4w0Y8Jf9MisaUOetl2FqSareG1dLF3Va6qXZR8FFMTXiReNY54bXUbxc/" /></a>I really tried to space out the layout as much as I could. I wanted maximum functionality and a living area that really flowed well. <b> </b><br />
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<b>Lighting </b>played a huge part in this and finding the <b>perfect lamp</b> literally took weeks. I love mood lighting, and at nights, I prefer lamp light to overhead lights. It really creates a warm, cosy atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with a book after a long day at work or at school.<br />
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Now, of course, the focal point of my entire condo would <i>have</i> to be my gorgeous wallpaper. I <i>knew</i> wanted it to be brown and blue and I also wanted it to be a classical floral design. I wanted it to really represent the aesthetic I was looking for: modern colour scheme coupled with a very classical design. Finding it was an absolute <i>dream</i>!<br />
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Finishing up the space is just painting select walls a colour as close to the blue in the wallpaper as possible and of course some throw pillows to bring everything together.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>For those of you who like this look, here are some of the <b>key elements</b> that bring this together. Like I mentioned before, my cowhide rug is from my father, but you can easily find a good one in IKEA. Click on the images below for links to the products or alternatives.<br />
<b>Key Elements:</b><br />
<table border-color="pink" border="0"><tbody>
<tr> <td><a href="http://www.ikea.com/ca/en/catalog/products/30177728" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibn5L0eqcfLVu5fu8AWNSAZyQeoD44z5CgoqXlJAwnTxX_BOfT1eI43cdx2v0729LuqFu1bzz4kLzEyBlPcwxjeMLguoGAwqzv6vfebMcqBiC3kj69DP_AML0teggQu5iX1Gl4Im3OrvM/" /></a></td> <td><a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10157217" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHz5hoCldVq-UNMy55Z3eYUpeCdWLiAMU-3e6K7c7yTiQrFNttGA-HjEil4huvI-0JHBkzVKYtYF7-Bdb2qf1u1Lykc7fPsvK1zpfNPXBvpoOK5z02QYTAaQDRxcbrC2gOUVQxObNXYOs/" /></a></td> <td><a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/furniture/sofas/troy-queen-sleeper/s296409" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIChyXiaHfEC8fy1rwHsJ_h9T45Swzq3A2bs_5gml27HS5kcuzC4S9OIYF4OilfvPxquKCMj0brtnCL3KiqkVnwPp39ITWemSIxJVKu6x5wrQAxG1MLLRRS8TyBYZXyooUWvS5S8yhDI/" /></a></td> </tr>
<tr> <td><a href="http://www.torontolife.com/guide/home_and_garden/paint-wallpaper/ontario-paint-wallpaper/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHq9VCXveV_cU5PupokNP330j_t_pkI4N_lVdxOQP-dIHMXoVCG3jk9QElnniMA-VEx7SG2l76iJClIQvT5Vq4tsHtBbXUg5JeGw49qloIDy1CYRQfYrpcU0R69p6D1_FZHmqGFPZK3sY/" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><hr />Sources:<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images taken by <a href="http://www.google.ae/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBQQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fca.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Ftheappleguy&ei=4AAnTfT1HIGh8QPTndygAg&usg=AFQjCNEl96ncC8gp38VKAK1oDaW_pvvYag&sig2=129bFhk6LviItjjUa2L5nA">Trevor Poczynek</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Key element images can be found on the website they link to </span>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-62982537035043806952011-01-06T12:55:00.000-08:002011-01-31T15:15:00.912-08:002011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiUrxQ0IaXRVA_f0lupx5jZOvJdjBWr3SFJe3CfbcZ0w_pdC5Neq8vEBW-_zJ6ZfuDf3zHFLacAf7cNjBu2zj6ZXlg6nJgYGnqhdjgPgcdthug31xIl0-XxwgT0PgH-gGhxOR6LPMX-98/s1600/headdeerrr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiUrxQ0IaXRVA_f0lupx5jZOvJdjBWr3SFJe3CfbcZ0w_pdC5Neq8vEBW-_zJ6ZfuDf3zHFLacAf7cNjBu2zj6ZXlg6nJgYGnqhdjgPgcdthug31xIl0-XxwgT0PgH-gGhxOR6LPMX-98/s1600/headdeerrr.png" /></a></div>It's a new year and for lots of us that means several different things but most of us see it is as a marking of a passage of time: The turning to a new page, a new chapter...<br />
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So what does 2011 have in store for you? I know we can never tell, but, what do <i>you</i> want out of it?<br />
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This year, above all else, I'd like to be braver. That's my new year's resolution.<br />
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Happy New Year guys!<br />
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Have a good one!<br />
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x NTAxNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-1698424723936313082011-01-04T04:21:00.000-08:002011-02-14T12:41:59.335-08:00Coming Soon: Give Away!!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpooRCcjSKwVTJt8ep5tUsZsVvMWDNM1Xfw82lkTsT-xtBseH29-vAGN2YtwcEu7h-t4tpwa3W4qeXDEvdLZSIVShRBLwoR81oqrWxGQkfK7oWdzaguMa12X8oxkViqg4SUXiBOcFHnI/s1600/giveawayheader.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpooRCcjSKwVTJt8ep5tUsZsVvMWDNM1Xfw82lkTsT-xtBseH29-vAGN2YtwcEu7h-t4tpwa3W4qeXDEvdLZSIVShRBLwoR81oqrWxGQkfK7oWdzaguMa12X8oxkViqg4SUXiBOcFHnI/s1600/giveawayheader.png" /></a></div>HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!<br />
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As part of the official launching of this blog, I'm planning on hosting a giveaway with some of my fav beauty products!<br />
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Watch this space for more information! Want a head start in entering? Just leave a comment! Don't forget to leave an e-mail so I can contact you! <3 <b>And Become a Follower</b>!<br />
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Have a good one!<br />
<br />
x NTA<br />
<br />
[THIS IS NOW CLOSED, YOU CAN CHECK OUT THE GIVEAWAY ><a href="http://xnta.blogspot.com/2011/02/open-88-follower-giveaway.html">HERE</a><]</div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4824650296908791155.post-23779500621163748902010-12-30T10:53:00.000-08:002011-01-30T13:56:13.770-08:00The 4 Must-Have Hair Tools for Babes on a Budget!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="The 4 Must-Have Hair Tools for Babes on a Budget!" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5iUnnRGP_TDro0SVW-e8WWuFnCs-8n84fUgIgKkCE9-n3_i_Ka4G6_eeZOcW1Z9xDbDAydkWQSt6egIqPQffBcbJPGqaNxG6UZcS_oiUyfiCl-L7dbul-qxV4lP53PBTAAiI1uhpoq0/s1600/article2header.png" /></div>Not everyone has the extra cash to spend on every single kind of curling iron, crimper, waver, straightener, gel, pomade, spray, brush, comb out there. So what should you <i>definitely </i>invest in to get those luscious locks?<br />
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In this article, I explore the hair styling <i>tools</i> (products for another day!) that will tease your tresses into submission! <br />
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<h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiKGFz2nA4GsXB3jBx003TqMgKJ85t-KmHF245t34zeJU3NixSNDZFxqyOwGVjeEohyphenhyphenDrTKNzV5Qf5zLTYtsg6wQHn55d17Zg-boemF1yqajcQ2oK1nXaGGINHnOT3Za-JgfJunWKGoY/s1600/tip1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiKGFz2nA4GsXB3jBx003TqMgKJ85t-KmHF245t34zeJU3NixSNDZFxqyOwGVjeEohyphenhyphenDrTKNzV5Qf5zLTYtsg6wQHn55d17Zg-boemF1yqajcQ2oK1nXaGGINHnOT3Za-JgfJunWKGoY/s1600/tip1.png" /></a><b>1. Boar-Bristled Barrel Brush</b></h2><span style="font-weight: normal;">As a rule, one should only ever brush your hair when absolutely necessary. Brushing hair can lead to breakage, which can hinder even the best intentions to grow and maintain beautiful healthy hair. A wide-toothed comb can be your best friend when combing out wet hair.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">However, there is <i>one</i> brush that could prove vital to your arsenal of hair tools: <b>A boar-bristled barrel brush</b>.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2QScL8WeAjxF_1Wwdml6rT1ROQO8DJ49NgWHeeI969TJuZwM5FBgRA-EQUE12ldH0DYOj9aI05MIX88EwykUaLScm9gVh5hMOHoPpk7RMnuU-qmzEwD7n8CEZPYEN43s6JR_m9FkMw4g/s1600/brush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2QScL8WeAjxF_1Wwdml6rT1ROQO8DJ49NgWHeeI969TJuZwM5FBgRA-EQUE12ldH0DYOj9aI05MIX88EwykUaLScm9gVh5hMOHoPpk7RMnuU-qmzEwD7n8CEZPYEN43s6JR_m9FkMw4g/s1600/brush.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-weight: normal;">This type of brush is great for several things: <b>Curling</b> (depending on the size of course),<b> teasing</b> and <b>smoothing</b>. Of course, there are special brushes for each of these things but with a little ingenuity, you can use this sort of bristled brush for anything. </span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">It isn't great for combing out tangles, but I'm assuming everyone reading this already has their own hair brush.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDF8q05p12BV_AztxdODJBezi0uEeVQoJAkqD3g4ysir1D-1f1mmopbuyJkMIAJsEyC6xjSs1MWwpfO8qkLvAa09U4LJY45XxD0C8xeBV7K2qFk62mdwq6KJh-zjSjaOtetYk3cnXt018/s1600/tip+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDF8q05p12BV_AztxdODJBezi0uEeVQoJAkqD3g4ysir1D-1f1mmopbuyJkMIAJsEyC6xjSs1MWwpfO8qkLvAa09U4LJY45XxD0C8xeBV7K2qFk62mdwq6KJh-zjSjaOtetYk3cnXt018/s1600/tip+2.png" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Teasing with this type of brush is actually a breeze. By bringing the bristles close to the hair to be teased and then firmly brush the hair downwards, you can have super teased hair in just two strokes and of course, very little damage! </span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">There are of course special smoothing brushes, but because of the bristles of this brush, you can gently use it to smooth out your hair. Spraying a little bit of hair-spray on the brush it self and then running it over the surface of your hair will give you that sleek, shiny, red-carpet-ready finish.</span><br />
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<h2><b>2. Velcro Rollers</b></h2><b></b><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">These types of rollers have tiny teeth that cling to your hair and so don't require any fussy clips to keep on your hair. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUOGdsDgZuH6jxBILh0Z8YE9ZY1U0iNIi7takz3SZVIirrZk7AqdyTE9AijpjpK3SJBfUdV-XMRY1s6ID_PewqjH6I6Xal-9yOhn58c09rcLu79Um9e0_2-vPrQx9GGn-roFvTLR_RII/s1600/rollers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUOGdsDgZuH6jxBILh0Z8YE9ZY1U0iNIi7takz3SZVIirrZk7AqdyTE9AijpjpK3SJBfUdV-XMRY1s6ID_PewqjH6I6Xal-9yOhn58c09rcLu79Um9e0_2-vPrQx9GGn-roFvTLR_RII/s1600/rollers.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-weight: normal;">They truly are my go-to tool for everyday hair. When I want a little bit of oomph to 2nd day hair or even my 90% dry after-shower hair, I stick the top half of my hair in large velcro rollers and within 10 minutes while I put on my makeup, clothes, etc. I have sexy, big hair without any teasing necessary. A quick mist of hairspray and I'm basically set.</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Velcro rollers are relatively cheap and can come in a variety of different sizes. They can be found in beauty supply stores. I got mine from the drug store, and they're by <b>Goody</b> and came in different sizes that stacked within each other. The small ones can give you tight curls if left in your hair for long enough (blast with heat from a hair dryer and a spritz of hairspray for staying power, wait to cool before removing) and the larger ones give you wonderful volume. Like I said, before, they cling to your hair pretty well, (so be careful when removing them! <b>Don't</b> just rip them out!) but if you need a little help, you can always turn to your trusty...</span><br />
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<h2><b>3. Bobby Pins</b></h2><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqla5tPsDuOXy0iz6oweN1up7dev7g6EppXafMxzMXkzTWR7AFovb9FuW0zIqfVXVdaq3Nu2gcq3zcxw2RZF4_8X0uBBwj0Dwt2cSrYqYxex8-05F_XyYAyjcZNx7hcTTe0m-lk3s9R2M/s1600/quote2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqla5tPsDuOXy0iz6oweN1up7dev7g6EppXafMxzMXkzTWR7AFovb9FuW0zIqfVXVdaq3Nu2gcq3zcxw2RZF4_8X0uBBwj0Dwt2cSrYqYxex8-05F_XyYAyjcZNx7hcTTe0m-lk3s9R2M/s1600/quote2.png" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;">Oh Bobby Pins. How I love thee. They pin stray locks away from your face, are great for up-dos, keep your velcro rollers in place...they're <i>cheap</i>...How could you <i>not</i> love them? If you're not convinced, I've got just two words for you: <b>Pin Curls</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">This no-heat curling technique can be achieved by taking sections of your 80-90% dry hair (the bigger the sections the bigger/loser the curl, but don't get too big a section that you won't be able to pin it down), wrapping it around two fingers, pulling it off your fingers but keeping the curl you just created and slowly curling your hair up towards your scalp. Think of it like trying to roll your hair on an invisible roller (which is why a small, flat section is easier to work with). Then, when it's at your scalp, just pin it across your scalp with two bobby pins creating an X shape. It should look like an O with a cross over top. Work from top to bottom. When dry, just take out your bobby pins, and you can either brush it out to get that 1950's look or leave it as is (though your curls may need some taming!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">This technique is great for recreating 1940's-1960's hairstyles. Pin curling is actually what they used to do back in the day before they had all the fancy gadgets we're blessed with. Which brings us to the final item on our list:</span><br />
<h2><b>4. A Good Hair Straightener</b></h2>"Not a curling iron?" I hear you cry.<br />
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Nope. For the ultimate jack-of-all-trades tool, a hair straightener will quickly become your best friend. <b>Used the right way, a hair straightener can straighten, curl, crimp and wave your tresses.</b> That's right, that's <i>one</i> tool that can completely change the way your hair looks from one moment to the next.<br />
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<b>What to look for when buying one:</b><br />
Not all hair straighteners were made equal and it's frustrating to find that you've just dropped $100.00 on something that won't quite do all the things you want. So first off,<b> make sure it's not too wide</b>. A 1.5 inch wide hair straightener is a good size. Another thing to look for is that it should have temperature/heat settings. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqsFTL9hBhH1QlRAjzXhr5qFmDDt7BuPxWD9DEI_zjdspLbHo1LKD1X6EECTIPI5ehtJNIrrJbHL3ff7aVAroq7IfizOehT5By6O4aCbozGcES6HAocJ6R6KiDLk9xgCG9DWwQnsE5MY/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqsFTL9hBhH1QlRAjzXhr5qFmDDt7BuPxWD9DEI_zjdspLbHo1LKD1X6EECTIPI5ehtJNIrrJbHL3ff7aVAroq7IfizOehT5By6O4aCbozGcES6HAocJ6R6KiDLk9xgCG9DWwQnsE5MY/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" /></a></div><b> </b>All good hair straighteners should have this. Why? Everyone has different hair. It would be bad to have a straightener whose only heat setting is so low it doesn't do its job, and even <i>worse</i> when its only heat setting is so high, it burns your hair. As you can see from the image above of <b>my own</b> hair straightener, I have heat settings from 170F all the way up to 420F. Always go from low to high. Start with a lower heat setting, and if it doesn't work, go a step up. Never use more heat then you absolutely have to and <b>always use a heat protectant</b>!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvQrDtFOABmGHgRhh21hl420jo9O5_TWHENG7pK6tn784fXQ0MOO-9_pAbgF9sxT-DD5p4_HDOc6m-yJtI6JvKAXC0xLOr0BBr6hl31WMyUkEqtphnJKuAHxQ9D1t9KcPz4_qkWGQilU/s1600/Untitled-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvQrDtFOABmGHgRhh21hl420jo9O5_TWHENG7pK6tn784fXQ0MOO-9_pAbgF9sxT-DD5p4_HDOc6m-yJtI6JvKAXC0xLOr0BBr6hl31WMyUkEqtphnJKuAHxQ9D1t9KcPz4_qkWGQilU/s1600/Untitled-2.jpg" /></a></div>Make sure it glides through your hair easily and doesn't snag. When shopping for this straightener, I actually took it out of its box (make sure the store you're at allows this, if not you should definitely ask for assistance!) and ran it through my hair a few times. No snags. If it snags, put it down, walk away. You don't want it pulling unnecessarily at your hair.<br />
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The last and possibly most important thing to look for in a hair straightener are curved edges. Look at the image above of my hair straightener (I can't tell you the brand because it's totally rubbed off, but I did get it for $75.00 from <a href="http://www.google.ae/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBQQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.winners.ca%2F&ei=LtQcTbWlGoyu8QOSn5GHBQ&usg=AFQjCNHxlTHLIrccLjzuWEcw9ShsqJMUkg&sig2=4BZbuK7tPcsQEkV1ReT1rQ">Winners</a>) and you'll notice it's got rounded edges. This edge is what gives you the ability to <b>curl</b>, your hair.<br />
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And that's it! Your 4 tools to perfect hair everyday! If you've got any more suggestions for hair <i>tools</i> that you can't live without, leave it in the comments below! Look out for the upcoming article on great Hair Products, for more tips and tricks!<br />
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Have a good one!<br />
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x NTA<br />
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<hr />Credits<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images: <a href="http://www.bigw.com.au/beauty-health/hair-care/bpnBIGW_0000000037519/hairs-and-graces-groom-and-style-hairbrush">Hair Brush 1</a> and <a href="http://dominicanhaircare.com/blog/?p=173">Hair Brush 2</a> and <a href="http://www.goody.co.uk/">Goody.co.uk</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">All other images and editing on images done by xNTA</span></div>xNTAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11337127526714148950noreply@blogger.com1