Happy Summer Solstice! It's the longest day of the year, and it is a beautiful day in New York City. The sun is bright; the sky is clear and blue; and there is a slight breeze in the air. Not to mention, the humidity is blessedly low. What a great day to be long!! Besides June 21st, there are other things I'm feeling this month.
Although I'm a medium-brown skinned African-American woman, I am very pro sun-safety. I keep my young daughters covered in Banana Boat Baby Sunblock in 50 SPF sunscreen by and I keep my face covered in Neutrogena Healthy Defense Sunblock Oil Free Stick in SPF 30. I love it because it is sweat proof and it keeps my face moisturized without making me look greasy. (In the summer, my face is very oily so I have a tendency to skip facial moisturizer.)
The summertime is also my favorite time to watch television. I'm pleaseed that Drop Dead Diva has returned for its second season with a focus on jokes, romance, friendship, and legal drama without focusing on the main character's plus-size body. I'm also glad that Jane's, the main character, wardrobe has improved, which was probably intentional to show the merging of the two personalities inahabiting Jane's body. (For the uninitated: "beautiful-but-vapid model wannabe Deb suddenly finds herself in front of heaven’s gatekeeper, Fred, following a fatal car crash. Outraged by her sudden demise, she attempts to persuade Fred to return her to her shallow existence but is accidentally relegated to the body of the recently deceased Jane Bingum. An intelligent, thoughtful and plus-size attorney with a loyal assistant. Jane has always lived in the shadow of her colleagues, whereas Deb has always relied on her external beauty. By a twist of fate and a bolt of divine intervention, Deb must come to terms with inhabiting Jane’s curvier frame and learn to reconcile her beauty-queen ways with her brilliant new mind.)
(True Blood has also returned. Yum!)
I'm also feeling podcasts this month, which are helping me through some difficult times. My favorites are The Week According Frangela; ESV: Book of Common Prayer Daily Office Lectionary; Two Whole Cakes Fatcast ; and Body Love Wellness.
I'm feeling two books. One is the wonderfully written Young Adult Novel Secrets of Truth and Beauty. Secrets of Truth and Beauty is a multi-layered coming of age story of 17-year-old Dara Cohen. Once a junior pageant winner, Dara is now an overweight teen with some very deep-seeded self-loathing and dysfunctional parents. When an English assignment is misinterpreted, she is removed from school and forced to go to therapy. Striking out on her own, Dara tracks down the long lost sister she never had and spends the summer working with her on a goat cheese farm. During the summer, Dara makes a good friend; finds love; and self acceptance.
Crazy Busy Beautiful: Beauty Secrets for Getting Gorgeous Fast by Carmindy unveils nearly 600 quick and easy beauty tips for women of all make-up application levels. It is simply awesome. I'd gift it to girls and young women starting out with wearing make-up, and need help on where to start.
By BrooklynShoeBabe from Brooklyn, NY on 6/17/2010
4out of 5
Cup Fit: Feels too big
Band Size: Feels true to size
Pros: Comfortable Fit, Good Support, Good Coverage, Comfortable Material, Figure-Flattering
Best Uses: T-Shirts, Office, Going Out, Everyday
Describe Yourself: Practical, Comfort-oriented
Because I have tear drop shaped breasts, the bra cups felt a little big at the top but I filled out the bottom and sides well. It is a very comfortable bra and I didn't feel like I was wearing underwire. It was breathable, supportive, and practical. I can wear it with everything with confidence.
By BrooklynShoeBabe from Brooklyn, NY on 6/10/2010
4out of 5
Fit: Feels true to size
Waist: Feels true to size
Length: Feels too long
Pros: Figure Flattering, Nice Fabric
Cons: colors not as bright
Best Uses: Date Night/Night Out, Wear To Work
Describe Yourself: Casual Dresser
Comfort vs Style: Comfort Driven
This dress is perfect for a polished and sophisticated look, but it will be a boring dress if you don't dress it up with accessories. I purchased the navy color and it was too dull--not as vibrant as I would have liked it to be. I would have kept because it would have been a perfect fall and winter staple but my husband's disapproving face forced me to return it.
Our exclusive Reach Technology has breathable knit gussets under arms for a custom-fit bustline and lets air flow through to keep you cooler and wick away moisture. Jacket has contrast detail at notch collar, sleeves and curved hem. Novelty buttons in front and mock buttons on cuffs. Mock breas...
By BrooklynShoeBabe from Brooklyn, NY on 6/10/2010
2out of 5
Waist: Feels too small
Sleeve Length: Feels true to length
Chest Size: Feels true to size
Pros: Classy, Affordable, Attractive Design
Cons: Cheap Feeling Fabric
Best Uses: Interview, Office Meetings, Church
Describe Yourself: Practical
When I opened my package, I was immediately awed by the jacket. It was very professional and fit well. The pants were too long; too tight in the waist; too loose in the hips and thighs; and the material felt very cheap. I know it was made from polyester, and I don't have problems wearing polyester but this fabric didn't feel at all breathable. It felt hot and itchy. If I didn't like the jacket so much, I would have returned the suit. Now, I'm just searching for a matching skirt to make a suit. Thank goodness I bought this on sale for $22.99.
Posted by Kiki Shoes
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Updated: June 12, 2010 2:50 PM EDT
June 8, 2010
A Creamy Review Now Playing: E.L.F. Nail Polishes and Translucent Topic: Beauty Thoughts & Reviews
Last Saturday, I received my highly anticpated opaque pastel colored nail polish from E.L.F. in the mail. I was not disappointed. The mint cream was exactly as I had pictured. It starts off a bit sheer, but I was able to get my desired look after three coats. I suspect it would have only taken two if I had not used a base coat--something I don't normally do. I topped it off with a Seche Vite fast drying top coat, which gives the color a slight sheen but it isn't glossy. Thus far, the manicure has lasted three days on my short nails with only the slightest wear that is only noticable to me. I have given my girls a bath; washed the dishes; and spent countless hours typing on the computer so this is quite a pleasant surprise. Even better, everyone has given me compliments on the color.
The lilac nail polish was darker in color than I had imagined. I was hoping for something a bit pinker. (Think of the greige with a few drops of purple mixed into it.) I would call this color a neutral with a twist. It doesn't scream out at you and the color is very complimentary to different skintones, but it is unique enough that you don't see it every where. As with the mint cream polish, it started out a bit sheer which I attribute to using a base coat. It took three coats to get the look I wanted. (Four on my pinkie toes which are darker in color than my other four toes.) There hasn't been any chipping and I've been wearing open-toed shoes for the past three days. The lilac color will transition nicely into the fall and winter weathers. This is my first time using E.L.F. nail polish, and I was pleased. On a scale of 1 to 5, I give it 4.
In this shipment, I also received E.L.F.'s new translucent mattifying powder from their studio line. I thought it would make my African-American skin look ashy, but the whiteness of the powder disappeared once I blended it using the enclosed sponge. It kept my normally oily T-zone matte during a humid night out of walking around midtown Manhattan. I will keep this powder in my purse so I can to touch ups during the day once the summer hits full blast. It was $3 well spent.
Posted by Kiki Shoes
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Updated: June 12, 2010 2:52 PM EDT
June 2, 2010
Wanna Buy Some E.L.F. Make Up From Me Now Playing: I Am An Affliate for E.L.F.
As you may have noticed, the United States' economy is in the toilet although experts say the recession is over. It may be over, but recovery is still far off. Yours truly is in a tough predicament. The city and state-funded non-profit organization for which I work (a public library) is getting hit hard. Funding from the city and state governments have been severely slashed, and it is causing them to go into crisis mode. In order to maintain some services, the library system for which I work is planning to close 16 locations (out of 60). It is also planning to reduce service hours of those remaining open. Finally, they're laying off employees. Where does this leave moi? Probably on the unemployment rolls. Last week, I received a conditional pink slip stating that I will get laid off if the city and state budgets get adopted as is. The library system will simply not have any money to pay most of of it's workforce.
After a week of woe is me, crying, and eating comfort food, I decided to do something. I decided to become a E.L.F. (Eyes Lips Face) cosmetics affliate. This means when you click through my site to buy make-up from E.L.F., I get a commission. It's a small income, but every little bit helps. And this is where you, my dear friends and followers, can help. You can purchase the super affordable E.L.F. (most items between $1 and $5) through my blog. You can recommend E.L.F. to your friends and colleagues, and click through to my blog.
To get you started, I'm going to give you a list of my current favorite E.L.F. Products:
Posted by Kiki Shoes
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Updated: June 8, 2010 5:18 PM EDT
May 27, 2010
Drowning in Creamy Mint Mood: not sure Now Playing: Pastel Colored Nail Polishes Topic: Beauty Thoughts & Reviews
About a month ago, I saw a beauty blot post about mint cream colored nail polish by Essie (Mint Candy Apple and Turquoise & Caicos) and E.L.F. cosmetics line of opaque pastel nail polishes. Since then, I've been absolutely obsessed and searching for versions of the color high and low. I spent my Mother's Day gift money on two of Sally Hansen's nail colors-- Insta-Dri Fast Dry Nail Color in Mint Sprint and Complete Salon Manicure in Fairy Teal. The dark teal nail polishes went on smooth and quickly with Sally Hansen's new wider brushes. They also last very long. As beauitful as the colors were, I still looked for something lighter and mintier in color.
American Apparel's nail lacquer in L Espirit is a wonderful opaque and semi-matte lilac and Office is close to the mint cream I crave. Their entire summer collection would satisfy my current hunger, but my general dislike for American Apparel and rumors of faulty polish bottles prevented me from doling out my lunch money to buy them. Recently, I did take a gander at Revlon's and L'oreal's pastel lilac colors. When I tried Revlon's (Lilac Pastelle) in the store, it was too sheer. L'oreal's in Party Hop was very close but required way too many coats.
Finally, in an act of desperation and a bit of recklessness, I ordered the colors that I desired most from the E.L.F website. The best part: I had a $5 off coupon and all I had to do was pay for shipping. I'm trembling for excited. In the meantime, I'm a fighting the urge to spend the last $2 in my pocket on an inexpensive mint cream nail polish at a local beauty supply store on the way home from work. Oh, what's a girl to do.
Putting A Good Face Forward Mood: chillin' Now Playing: CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless Topic: Beauty Thoughts & Reviews
When it comes to make-up and skin care, I am strictly a drugstore consumer. The department store and speciality store products that I own came to me as gifts, contest winnings or from the company to review. If you look at my makeshift vanity, you would think my tastes are high-end but they are not. I am proudly low end. When I do the Allure magazine's favorite products lists, my under $10 choices runneth over.
My favorite drug store brand has always been CoverGirl. (I upgraded in my mid-20s from Wet-n-Wild, lol.) Their products have always been consistent in quality and value for money. Although their foundations generally matched my skin tone and skin condition, their Queen Collection put it over the top for me. Their women of color line has my perfect liquid foundation match! And while I'm knee deep in this love fest, I must admit that I'm always intrigued by their innovations like their lipstain marker and their ShadowBlast smoky eye shadow pencil (click here for my review). As a Bzzagent, I was lucky enough to try their Simply Ageless line. (You might have seen the ads with funny lady Ellen DeGeneres.)
What makes the CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless different from other products of it's kind is that it's made "with advanced OlayRegenerist Serum" and "it stays suspended over fine lines and wrinkles." In other words, it doesn't highlight pores, wrinkles and fine lines by sinking into them. It just glides very lightly over your skin providing smoother looking skin. In my nifty box, I received: Foundation in Toasted Almond; Blush in Lush Berry; Concealer in Medium; and Corrector. I couldn't wait to wear them. With the while swirl of the Olay serum, they looked like decadent desserts for my face.
I did not wear the corrector because my I simply don't have a need for it, but I did wear the others. The foundation glided on smoothly with the included sponge. It did not feel heavy, and it blended very quickly. I didn't look shiny although the formulation looked as though it would apply that way. The concealer also blended well, and I used my ring finger. The medium/dark was a little too light for my African-American skin, but it was quickly correctly with a little dusting of powder. My favorite was the blush. For the first time ever, I had finally found a blush that gave me a rosy color that didn't look like a costume. The make-up stayed on all day despite my office being warm and humid. I felt put together with a flawless face. That doesn't happen often. On a scale of 1 to ten, I give the Simply Ageless line a 8.5.
Posted by Kiki Shoes
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Updated: May 17, 2010 8:49 PM EDT
May 6, 2010
Blasting the Shadow and Shine Mood: mischievious Now Playing: CoverGirl Smoky ShadowBlast and ShineBlast Topic: Beauty Thoughts & Reviews
When I saw the advertisements for CoverGirl's new eyeshadow pen, Smoky ShadowBlast, I was excited because of the possibility of being able to recreate a smoky eye easily and in fun colors. Because I am a BzzAgent, I was able to participate in campaign to review the Smoky ShadowBlast pen. I chose the Citrus Flair combo, which is a bronze and limoncello colored-duo. Following the direction in my BzzKit and on the back of the ShadowBlast package, I began my smoky-eyed look.
I used Step 1, the bullet-shaped and limoncello colored side, to cover my eye from the brow bone to the lash line. The product was very creamy and required a light hand as to not break. On my eyes, it was slightly shimmery and a bit sheer, but another swipe gave it a more opaque look. I followed with Step 2, the flat/pointed edge and bronze colored side. This portion of the eyeshadow was much more resilient, and I applied it along my lash lines and in the crease as instructed. Looking as though I just drew stripes on my eyelid, I blended lightly with ring finger. A great deal of product rubbed off on my finger, and I had to reapply. When I was done, the colors looked okay but I didn't have the sexy smoky eye I was hoping to get. Even worse, an hour later the shadow was creased and made my eyes look oily.
Hope springs eternal! The next day I prepped my eyes with an oil mattifying serum and translucent powder. Then, I reapplied the eyeshadow and I blended with a brush. Again, I didn't have a smoky eye but at least I didn't look greasy. Unfortunately, the eyeshadow ended up creasing just two hours later. CoverGirl Smoky ShadowBlast gets a big thumbs down from me.
Also, as a result of being a BzzAgent, I had to chance to try CoverGirl's ShineBlast lipgloss in Fire. ShineBlast contains "light reflecting shimmer layered under a high-gloss finish...." Because my lips were darker than the color of the gloss, I had to use three layers in order to get a hint of color. Even with all the layers, the lip gloss didn't feel gloppy or too sticky. I did get a nice shine, and my lips felt sexier. Perhaps if I had chosen a richer color, it would have popped more.
Making Sure The Babes Arrive Healthy Now Playing: Babies: A Documentary
"BABIES and March of Dimes are proud to partner together to help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies! Visit MarchOfDimes.com or text BABIES to 20222 to make a $5 donation. Celebrate BABIES in theatres Mother's Day Weekend and join over 1 million people in March of Dimes annual "March for BABIES" Walk!"
As a working mom of a preschooler and a toddler, goodness knows I need a break every day. Which I don't get, lol, but every once in awhile, us moms have to make time for ourselves. Check it this little video for suggestions.
Disclaimer: I have entered the Babies Ambassador Contest. I am also a Bzzagent. My agent name is mrswhite072895. About the Ambassador Program: As a BABIES Ambassador, I am provided with exclusive content and insider information on the film, so I can be one of the first to share it with my readers, friends or any social community I manage. Plus, by using the “share” tools provided on each content page, I will earn one point each time someone clicks on the BABIES content I featured. The more points I earn, the better my chances of winning prizes. Top Ambassadors will also get VIP access to events such as pre-release screenings and Director Q&A’s!
Posted by Kiki Shoes
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Updated: April 24, 2010 3:47 PM EDT
April 1, 2010
Because Babies Are Cute When They're Not Yours Mood: a-ok Now Playing: A Documentary: Babies
Premiering Mother's Day weekend is a heartwarming and family friendly documentary called Babies. The nearly dialogue-free documentary follows the progress of four infants from Namibia, Mongolia, Tokyo and San Francisco from birth to their first steps. Paul Dergarabedian, of Hollywood.com, has said that Babies has all the signs of a sleeper hit in the making and that the trailer was riveting.
Cuteness Alert! Ponijao (below, left), who lives in Namibia with her family, is one of four babies followed from birth to first steps in Thomas Balmès' BABIES, a Focus Features release. Photo credit: Focus Features
(Ed note: Namibia is where Angelina Jolie gave birth to her first biological child, Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt.)
Disclaimer: I have entered the Babies Ambassador Contest. I am also a Bzzagent. My agent name is mrswhite072895.
About the Ambassador Program:
As a BABIES Ambassador, I am provided with exclusive content and insider information on the film, so I can be one of the first to share it with my readers, friends or any social community I manage.
Plus, by using the “share” tools provided on each content page, I will earn one point each time someone clicks on the BABIES content I featured. The more points I earn, the better my chances of winning prizes. Top Ambassadors will also get VIP access to events such as pre-release screenings and Director Q&A’s!
Posted by Kiki Shoes
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Updated: April 7, 2010 12:36 PM EDT
March 24, 2010
What I Am Feeling This March Mood: not sure Now Playing: What I Am Feeling This Month
With the remake of The Clash of the Titans (opening on April 2), one of my childhood favorite movies, I’m knee deep in Greek mythology. I’m thoroughly enjoying Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heros by Edith Hamilton. I’m wishing I could find my A-paper from college comparing Dinoysis’ followers’ cannibalistic sacrifices with Catholicism’s communion ceremony. (Don’t ask. I was a bit of a freak in college.)
For the last two or three years, I’ve whipped myself into a virtual survey & review frenzy. Through these various programs, I earn points, cash, products, and gift cards. These things come in hand for the cheapskate in me, but it is starting to wear me out. I’m involved in so many that I don’t know how to prioritize. The one I’m feeling the most this month, however, is I-Say because they pay cash once you reach a certain point.Below is a list of some of the programs I belong to that you should try.
I am also big on entering contests. If I didn’t win anything, I’d probably stop. My favorite blog right now is “Free! Grechen,” which lists beauty and fashion giveaways from around the net (and sometimes from around the world).
Polyvore is a fashion lover's virtual idea board. You can make up an array of outfits complete with accessories, background pictures, text, and music. It is definitely a grown-up fashionista's best friend. I can spend hours on this site, which has resulted in many a sleepless night.
What I'm Listening To: Body & Soul Compilation, Vol. 1
What I'm Reading: The Next Big Thing by Johanna Edwards
What I'm Watching: Gossip Girls
What I'm Wearing: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Primer Skin Transformer (good for dry skin, leaves me a bit oily)
Posted by Kiki Shoes
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Updated: March 24, 2010 8:05 PM EDT
March 19, 2010
Another Hot Giveaway Mood: a-ok Now Playing: Nail Addicts Anonymous Topic: Contests
To celebrate reaching 64 followers, Nail Addicts Anonymous is hosting an awesome nail polish giveaway.
(From Left to Right)
Essie
Mink Muffs, Shindig, Porcini, Van D'Go
Orly
Snowcone, Mint Mojito
OPI
Chapel of Love, Jade Is The New Black
China Glaze
Bahamian Escape, Shower Together, Tree Hugger
Awakening, Lemon Fizz, Bermuda Breakaway, Good Witch
HEAL THE WORLD... Mood: rushed Now Playing: CHILE AND HAITI STILL NEED YOUR HELP A.K.A. $$$
As longer days and warmer weather brings us closesr to renewal of Spring, lets not forgot that our brothers and sisters in Chile and Haiti are still suffering from the devastating affects of their recent earthquakes. As you get you get ready to buy that latest video game or nail polish or see that summer blockbuster, please donate a few dollars to the cause. Every little bit helps.Thank you. --Kiki
How to Help Haiti
The following organizations are accepting SMS donations in the US only:
SMS text “HAITI” to 90999 to donate $10 to Red Cross relief efforts
SMS text “YELE” to 501501 to Donate $5 to Yele Haiti's Earthquake Relief efforts
SMS text "GIVE10" to 20222 to donate $10 to Direct Relief
Ladies, the next time you hit your local Wal-Mart, Walgreens, CVS, Rite-Aid or local drug store for your hygiene and intimacy products, put an extra box in the cart for the women of Haiti.
Haitian women, young girls and youth are in need of:
Feminine supplies.
The Morning After Pill
Combs.
Feminine wipes.
Panties, bras and clothes and other support (especially for pregnant women and new mothers).
Personal/household supplies for birth delivery and after: (rubbing alcohol or disposable anti-germicidal substitutes; baby wipes, baby wraps, pampers, socks and caps and supplies for nursing. mothers/newborn; (It is cold at nights so there is need to cover the feet and heads of the newborns).
Clothing and under garments for women and young girls.
Bedding & blankets for babies and mothers.
You can send these products or financial assistance to:
Donations can be sent directly to: HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE FOR HAITI Sergia Galvan and Mayra Tavarez Colectiva Mujeres Y Salud/CAFRA Calle Socomo Sanchez No 74, Gazcu, Santo Domingo DR
How You Can Help Chile
•Habitat for Humanity -- Habitat for Humanity has a continual presence in Chile, where they've helped construct over 1,300 homes. They will be essential in reconstruction efforts, especially in hard-hit rural areas. Donate to Habitat For Humanity or text CHILE to 25383 to donate $10.
•United Way -- Through its affiliate in Chile, Corporacion Sociedad Activa, United Way is planning strategies to provide long-term relief to the region. Donate to the United Way or text CHILE to 864833 to give $10.
•Operation USA -- Operation USA is sending emergency relief to Chile following the earthquake. Text REBUILD to 50555 to donate $10 to Operation USA's Chile disaster relief efforts or donate online at opusa.org.
•Text Your Support for Chile: Text a donation to Chile through one of several organizations via the Mobile Giving Foundation.
Text CHILE to 90999 to donate $10 to the Red Cross
Text CHILE to 23583 to donate $10 to Habitat for Humanity
Text CHILE to 20222 to donate $10 to World Vision
Text CHILE to 50555 to donate $10 to the Friends of World Food Program
Text CHILE to 52000 to donate $10 to the Salvation Army
Text REBUILD to 50555 to donate $10 to Operation USA
Text 4CHILE to 50555 to donate $10 to Convoy of Hope
Text CHILE to 864833 to give $10 to the United Way
Posted by Kiki Shoes
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Updated: March 19, 2010 10:52 AM EDT
February 26, 2010
Get Your Hands On the Most Wanted.... Mood: a-ok Now Playing: You Got Nail February Giveaway Topic: Contests
YGN is giving away a bottle of nail polish from the hot new brand Illamasqua. The product? An unopened bottle of Illamasqua's Obsess. Along with that, she is adding a trio of 3 cutely packaged nail polishes from Korea--The Face Shop. The giveaway is open to international readers, so head on over and try your luck!
lyrical
E.L.F. Small Eye Brush
E.L.F. Hypershine Lip Gloss in Vixen
E.L.F. Nail Polish in Mint Cream
not sure
chillin'
mischievious
a-ok
rushed
YGN is giving away a bottle of nail polish from the hot new brand 