My list of greatest feel good songs.

People, Do you ever have a day where you wake up and want to stay in bed?  You know the day I'm talking about.  You feel less than yourself, and you just can't imagine going through the motions of any kind of routine.  On those days I usually force myself to put on makeup.  My theory is if I look good then it might trick my brain into feeling better.  Most of the time it works.  But..... if that doesn't do it for me I have a full bag of tricks that I can pull out one by one.  Dress up.  No?  That didn't do it for you either?  Okay, how about call a friend and make them tell you jokes?  So, it was nice catching up with your friend, but you've heard all those jokes before.  All the experts in mental health say laughter is the best medicine for gloomy days.  Maybe you have a sitcom in your dvd you can watch.  But if you've done all of that and you still feel blah.  Well people try music.  Yup I said music.  It is even more healing a than laughter.  Who knows, maybe while you listen to the music you can laugh.  Then you will feel like a super human.

I have made a list of what I'll call my greatest feel good songs ever.  Well at least in my lifetime.  Here they are:

1. Black sheep- The choice is yours
2. Bleach- Super good feeling
3. August burn red- Carol of the bells (any time of year)
4. Devo- Whip it
5. Lenny Kravitz- American woman
6. Mike Posner- Cooler than me
7. Petula Clark- Downtown
8. Kerli- Tea Party
9. ZZ Top-Cheap sunglasses
10. Ayiesha Woods- Beauty * ( This is a super song if your feeling cruddy)
11. Earthsuit- One time
12. U2- Beautiful day
13. John Lennon-Imagine
14. Don McLean- American Pie
15. Louis Armstrong- What a wonderful world
16. R. Kelly- I believe I can fly
17. B 52's- Love shack
18. Jason Mraz- I'm yours
19. KJ- 52- Do Yo Thang
20. Pecular People Band- Can I leave my head

These are songs that really lift me.  I love to rock out to Beauty in the car.  Earthsuit makes me feel good.  If I'm feeling blue, What a wonderful world and beautiful day really hit the spot.  Did you know that American pie is like a 10 minute long song?  You'll be singing at the top of your lungs.  If you feel bad at the beginning, you will feel great by the end.  You just can't help it with that song.  Any how people, I want to know what you list of greatest feel good songs ever are.  It doesn't have to be 20.  It can be two or three.  Or even just one.  Post in the comments below.  I can't wait to hear from you.  Everyone is so different.  It will be cool to see what you put.

Oh, So here is a photo of me after I dragged myself out of bed and forced myself to put on makeup and listen to some awesome tunes with my bestest forever hubby.

Thanks for stopping by missditz-thebeautifullife,

Leslie

Valentines is going to be here before you know it!

OMG!  Sooner than you know it Valentines Day will be upon us.  You can always count on the standard wine, chocolates and roses.  Of Course there is also dinner and dancing.  Plus the ever popular gift of lingerie.  Which is really more of a gift for the guy.  Nothing says, "I expect sex"  More than the gift of lingerie now does it ladies?  Now I do love me some frilly girlie nighties, but not for valentines day.  Any other day of the year is just fine.

Great gifts ideas for fellas to give their ladies are:
Manicure, pedicure, spa.
Massage
Shopping together
Long romantic weekend away
Jewelry
Techie stuff like iphones or ipads
Hot air balloon ride
Explore another city
explore a winery
stay at an inn

Great gift ideas for ladies to give their fellas are:
Magazine subscriptions
Go camping, fishing, hiking with them
Jewelry
Long romantic weekend away
Watching the football game while you go shopping alone
Rent a cool car like a mustang a go for a long weekend
techie things like iphones, or ipads
The way to a mans heart is through his stomach, so cook him an amazing meal, dim the lights and have wine with ever course.  Even a drink that goes with dessert like say..... spanish coffee.  Yum.

If you are without a partner this year.  Romance yourself.  Dress in your most stunning clothing.  Don't save it for a "special occasion"  You are the special occasion.  So, dress great, do something special with your hair, get a manicure, and go out with a group of other people, or go see family.  Just make sure you make plans.  Make them in advance.  It feels great to say that you have plans on Valentines day. 

Well People,  I hope these ideas help you to prepare for Valentines day.  I will be doing something special with my Husband, Son and Daughter.

Leslie

Charisma-Oh mama!

All through out history there have been people with personalities larger than life. Moses,  Rudolph Valentino, Coco Channel, Audry Hepburn.  Of course the modern day Charismatics would be folks like Oprah because of her staying power, Ryan Seacrest, The Kardachens.  Then there are the Charismatic people who use their power for evil and not for good.  They are villains such as Al Capone, Jimmy Hoffa, Hitler,  Jim Jones, and more recently The Dad of balloon boy.  The guy was so charismatic.  He had already been on one reality show, had another lined up and was going to write a book about his little balloon boy.  Wow.

Should you want to become larger than life in a positive way.  Or to build on some skills you already have working towards the goal or charisma, here are a few things you can increase in your life.

Choose a direction.  Have an intentional, thoughtful way about you.  Know where you are headed in life.  When you seem self aware, and self assured then people are more relaxed around you.  If you aren't in turmoil then your atmosphere is calm.  This is the time to decide on a career, or college, or that trip around the world.  The point is to make decisions.  Find ways to implement them.  Then stick to them.  Don't be a flip flopper.  If you are uncertain of your goals, don't declare them to people.  Only tell people of things when you are certain.  Then you don't appear to be wishy washy.

Speak articulately.  It is okay to speak excitedly, but speak clearly and with clear intention.  Listen well to others, and look in their eyes when they speak.  Please, don't look around while they are talking.  This is what I call the " please, someone help me, I can't wait to get away from this person"  Look of desperation.  If others in the room can recognize this look then the person to whom you should be paying attention can as well.

Show flexibility and spontaneity.   Allow yourself to be enthusiastic and excited.  Even dramatic and animated.  After all you are around friends and you like them.  Think to yourself that no matter where you are, you have never met someone who wasn't a friend.  Then when you think on life, you don't have one friend or two.  You have dozens and dozens! After practicing these things for a while they will become second nature.  At first you will be practicing and after a while you will simply be doing it.  Like riding a bike.  All of these things are confidence builders.  So, as you learn these things you are also learning to be more of a confident person.  It will be a beautiful life.  When people look at you they'll see so much self confidence and joy.  Yes!  Even Charisma!  They will say, oh what Charisma, Oh Mama!!!

Leslie

Trends for 2011

Boy was I wrong. My people. I must begin this post with my head hung low and a deep abiding apology rolling off my tongue. Here I was going to write to you a long post telling you what all the experts have to say about what you should be wearing in the year ahead. Telling you what you should look like while wearing your makeup. For instance, should you have thick brows or thin brows, dark shadow/light? Or dark lips or gloss? Then I was going to talk about what the experts say you should wear. Oh, this Spring you should wear long skirts instead of the short short skirts that have been worn in the season from the past. Then I was going to talk about what they say about hair. Oh don't even get me started on the hair!! Then a stroke of sanity hit me. I realized that along with being the consumers, WE are the experts. I mean really! Have you ever watched a fashion show with a model toddling down the run way with a space craft strapped around her waist? Do you ever see that translate into public sales? No I say! Because, it is pure fantasy. No sane person would ever in their right mind wear that.

My thought on this is that we the consumers should decide that in truth we are the experts. Since we know our bodies and our lifestyles, we should set our own trends for ourselves. You know how recently I suggested that if you don't like something about yourself you just change it. Hair color comes in a box, so you can change that. You don't like your close, you can change those one piece at a time. Your hair style, you can always go to a hair stylist and looks through books and magazines and have a nice long consultation.

Really the point is that you decide. You must become bold and start shaping yourself into whom you want to be. Not who the experts tell you you should be. Now that is not to say that you shouldn't take their advice. They are experts after all. If you should hear a piece of advice that resonates with you take it. You find something you like here, a piece of advice there. Then you continue something you are already doing and mix in a few new ingredients and low and behold you have a new trend. Ta Da! And you did it with out shoving yourself full boar into a whole look that someone has told will be a trend. Trends come and go, but classics last. Be a classic. Build yourself, be yourself, and have fun!

Thanks for stopping by the Beautiful life,
Leslie

Bringing back an old favorite- Tools for eyes

Hello my People,
This is one of my early video projects. Now don't go laughing at my hair okay. It's been awhile. My color has changed a bit and so has the length. I think I talked a mile a minute in this video. The whole gist of it, is that there are so many ways to get your eye lashes to look long and curly. Over all my favorite has to be the spoon. Enjoy the video.



Thanks for watching people,

Leslie

Put a smile on that face!

When I see something that will add beauty to your life I have share.  Whether it is make up or anything else.  This video by OK GO Really made me grin.  I think that you will love it too.  If you are having a down day, I hope it makes your day.



Thanks for watching,

Leslie

Thinking out of the box...There is no spoon.

My people this is a wacky yet wonderful idea to use as we start the baby new year.

I read an article that discussed our lives as boxes.  I also watched the movie "My Life as a House"  Now that is a good theory.  Thinking of ourselves as houses that have rooms that are constantly being built.  Whoa, I am getting way off track.  Deep breath.  Okay, back on track.  Here is where I am going with this.

Have any of you seen the matrix?  Do you remember the scene where Neo Goes to see the Oracle and there is this young boy bending spoons.  I would love to show you the movie clip if you haven't seen it but I cannot embed it because it is protected.  So, I will have to just share the scripted scene with you.

 Spoon boy: Do not try and bend the spoon. That's impossible. Instead... only try to realize the truth.
Neo: What truth?
Spoon boy: There is no spoon.
Neo: There is no spoon?
Spoon boy: Then you'll see, that it is not the spoon that bends, it is only yourself.



Okay, you have heard the saying "think outside of the box"?   Well, I am about to challenge you to think wide open.  In the movie The Box The main Character,  Arlington Steward says this about boxes. 
"Your home is a box. Your car is a box on wheels. You drive to work in it and you drive home in it. You sit at home staring at a box. It erodes your soul while the box that is your body inevitably withers then dies whereupon it is placed in the ultimate box to slowly decompose."
That is soooo positive and uplifting isn't it?  Well, now I shall get to the point and tie these two thoughts together.  Just as there is no spoon, and we use our mind to bend it and by bending our minds we shape ourselves.  There is no box to think outside of.  Except for the boxes that we allow ourselves to be placed inside of or we place our selves in.  It can sometimes be so safe inside those boxes.  But once you realize the box you are in is not real at all it can not control you.  Poof the box disappears and you have no walls to hold you back.  I would even go so far as to say that the glass ceiling I hear so much about is a sort of a box.  It is something people tell you is there to prevent you from trying to move beyond it.  Anything that is going to stop you from moving forward or upward is only a positive thought away.


Boxes aren't all that bad though.  You can make a cool box car like this:

 Your buddies would be so jealous of you kickin it your stylin box car.  Everyone would run out and make one.  Well my friends  That is all I have to say about boxes, and spoons.  Except to remind you that spoons make excellent eye lash curlers. 

Leslie

Year In Review

Awww, My people. The year has come to a closing. It is time to look back and see what we have left behind us. So much has happened. We had Balloon boy, Conan's last late night show, and first tbs show. Apple unveiled the ipad. Toyota had a  recall. New Orleans wons the Super Bowl. Then of course who could forget the year starting with the news of Tiger Woods affair, and Mid year news conference apology.

In Fashion there were some amazing fashions. Shirts and dresses that had one shoulder on and one shoulder off, knee socks, lace on everything, jump suits, the military look, anything gaga, headbands and bows, boots, and  boyfriends jackets.

There were some exceptional movies too this year. Just off the top of my head here are some that I saw and really enjoyed. The last air bender, the book of Eli, Alice in Wonderland, Toy story 3,  and Iron man 2.

Tv shows that I have been liking. The first one comes with a disclaimer. While I have been enjoying this show in the past I am now finding that it is leaving a distinct nasty aftertaste. Sort of like a horrid hang over. Maybe more like the wreck on the highway you have to look at because you have been stuck in traffic for 30 minutes to get there so you feel it is your right to look. But once you look you are deeply disappointed. That show is Glee. Then I also watch outsourced, downsized (a cable show) the apprentice, fringe, and finally undercover boss.

I tried to think of my top songs for 2010, but I have so many on my itunes right now. I guess for recent music Lenny Kravitz- American woman, Jason Mraz Only Human, Manafest- Avalanche.

Favorite places to shop online are sephora, mod cloth, shopruche.com.

Well, my favorite people in the world are my family. The people I most want to meet in the world are you. So, send me a comment on your favorites of 2010. Or tell me your worst. I would love to hear any of them. Don't be shy. Introduce yourself.

Happy New Year,

Leslie

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

No New years Resolutions, How about creating a new identity instead?

Yes People, New Years is upon us and the universe, or at least most of the people in expect us to make resolutions for change.  I say,"Fogetaboudit!" Instead of deciding to lose weight, stand up to your boss, organize your closet, try getting a new identity.  Now, I don't mean run out and become American's most wanted.  Or steal someone's birth certificate and take over their life.  instead just change your identity.  Let me unbox it for you.  First think of all the times you have caught yourself looking at someone else and saying I wish I were more like her.  Well, what is stopping you?  You like her red hair.  I hear that comes in a box.  You dig her style of dress,  ask her where she shops.  Get where I am heading with this.  She is confident and You, not so much.  Well, think of it as rehearsing for a play in your head.  Rehearse it over and over until it becomes part of you.  Rehearse being confident and saying confident things.  Walk into a room with your shoulders back, the girls at attention, and pretend you're confident.  The people looking at you think you really are.  They have no idea you're just acting.  That is quite a magic trick huh?


Maybe you really do want to change your identity.  Maybe seriously you have a dangerous situation in your life.  Scary abusive husband, boyfriend or family member.  Let me start at the beginning with this.  First off, there are a lot of places to reach out to for help.  The police, social service, child protective services.  If for some reason you want to skip this step and you are over the age of 18 you can do these things. I have done a simple google search as well as a search on my State of Texas County clerk website.  I am in no way offering you legal advice.  This is just information that I've found in researching new identities.  I should also state that by going to the county clerk and asking for a petition for a name change, they will automatically give you all the proceeding paper work and advice. You can go to the county clerk and petition for a name change by asking for a deed poll.  Get an order to grant a name change.  Sign a legal backer form.  Sign a legal affidavit of consent.  Post an add in the classified, (bury it in a section that it won't easily be found) stating that you are changing your name.  Then after you have taken these steps you should be should be able to change your name and possibly your social security number if you have personal security reasons.  All of the above things can be done with out the assistants of a lawyer.  It is one trip to the county, one add in the paper, and you can have your new social security card sent to a P.O box.  So, that is your new identity if you are being victimized.

I am thinking more of taking your identity into hyper drive and becoming an uber version of yourself.  I'm going to get fresh with my hairstyles. I have already purged the old Leslie wardrobe.  The things that just made me feel the most icky when I wore them.  I have already begun to wear heals almost every day.  It isn't about becoming a stepford wife for me.  Really it's more like, I just want to find myself more enchanting, more whimsical, more, fresh and approachable.  More fun.  Just MORE.  So you can say that my new identity is MORE willing to try more of everything.

As the New Year approaches who will you be in your new identity.  A ninja, a princess, a tomb raider, or how about a zombie.  I can easily be that at 7 a.m.

Well my people, thank you for listening to my long and rambling rants.  Happy new Year!

:)  Leslie

Could you wear the elegance of the past today?

  Sigh, I went to the civil war museum with my family this weekend. My daughter needed to go for her college mini semester History class. I thought it was going to be a true snooze fest. It was a really fun and interesting time. The most fun for me was the section of the museum that had period dresses, fans, necklaces, and other accessories. I took some photos to share with my people. I hope you find these items as lovely as I did.


This necklace is beautiful.  Some of you may find this crafty, others may find it creepy.  Either way it's an interesting fact.  This necklace is woven from human hair.  

All hand embroidered.

 This is all hand embroidered.

 This is a friendship fan covered in signatures.

 This is an evening cape.

 Evening ball gown.

Well, that was the period dress section.  It was very exciting to share it with you.  So my question is.  Could you dress like this?  Crinoline hoop skirts?  Man a lot of work goes into each stitch of that hand embroidery.  You would definitely have to wear these dresses a whole lot to make it worth it.  I love the style.  But I am glad to be in this generation where you can buy retro or buy reproduction vintage clothing.  My period is anywhere from the 30's through now.  What's your style?  Post in the comments below.

Leslie

Spiral curls-they are the girliest.

Yesterday I got the urge to feel girly and put spiral curls in my hair.  When I was very little.  My mom used to put dippity doo in my hair and then wrap section with sponge curlers before bed while my hair was still wet.  In the morning when She removed them, she would call them banana curls.  They looked like Nelly Olsen curls.  That is really cute when you are 8.

So, I took up my spiral curling iron and put some curls in.  I sectioned off my hair from ear to ear and pinned the amount above my ears to the top of my head and curled the bottom.  When that was done I did another section from temple to temple, then pinned the top part up, and curled this next section.  Then repeated this with the final section.  Here is a photo.

There are a variety of ways to get your hair to have the spiral curl look.  From rag wrapping, to spiral irons, and the above mentioned sponge rollers and dippity doo.  LOL.  There are a few new products that are pretty simple.  I have included video and links for them below.

The first one is called curlformers.  These can be bought at Sally Beauty. 




Another option to get sleek spiral curls is a product called clip & curl spiral.  You can purchase these on Ebay or on Alibaba.com.  Below is a video for the product:





One more product is called rageaze.  They make disposable rag curlers that require no heat.  I suppose you could reuse them a time or two if you wanted to.  They look pretty cool.  




I hope you have enjoyed seeing all of your spiral curl options.  It has been fun to research this one.

Leslie

Rest in peace, my pet, my family.

When people say that they are getting a pet, they have no idea what they are getting into. Once you look into those little eyes, you are hooked. I have four little dachshunds. Well three really as one is my daughters. Two of them adopted at older ages, but one came to me at 6 weeks old. He is the only dog I have ever had from puppyhood on. He is 13 now. He still has a few good years left in him. His name is Gravy. Now I don't want to get any emails or comments about how naming him that could hurt his little self esteem. This dog is a stud, and his name has never bothered him. In fact he really clowns around about it. He has used it to his advantage over the years. He's a lover, not a fighter, really.

About a month ago we though our guy had the puppy flu. He was getting sick everywhere in the house. On floors, on beds. An equal opportunity barfer. Then it stopped. We thought he was better. But we noticed he had lost some weight. Now you might be saying to yourself, "no big deal" Well it was a big deal. You see our little doxi was obese for his size. He had been up to 25 lbs at one time, and we had worked him down to a healthy 20. He had gone down to 18 and even though that was healthy, to us it was too thin from what we were used to. Then it happened. He started to throw up again. Food, water, everything. And his cheek was swollen. The vet said he had an abscessed tooth. He sent him home on antibiotics and pain medicine and he went back to normal after a week. Yea.

But wait, there's more. A few days after getting better he got worse. He went from 18 to 15 in one week. Eating baby food, because he couldn't keep down dog food, and can barely keep down water. Today we got results back from blood work he had done yesterday. My little Gravy is a diabetic. He can't be helped. We will be saying goodbye to him in just a few hours. The whole family has been taking turns cuddling him and talking to him. We took our final family picture.

Are you asking, how does this have anything to do with a beautiful life? It's so sad? Well, I will tell you how it does. This little dog became more than just a pet. You get a pet thinking that is all it will be. But no, they become a clown, a confidant, a cuddler, a best friend, a family member. You love them. They love you unconditionally. Even though I am sad for this day. I would trade the 13 yrs filled with 365 days of pure faithful love from my friend Gravy. If your lonely, if you need a friend, go rescue a lonely puppy or cat from the aspca.

Leslie

Exciting blog/youtube find

Hello my people.  As you know, when I find something exciting, a product, tv show, or exciting blog on the web, it must be shared with my people.  Yes!  I have found an exciting and wonderful blog.  It is called Classic Retro Glamour.  Run by a lovely lady who is into Hairstyles, Retro beauty, Styles from the 20's-60's, and tattoos.  She is very talented and graceful.  Easy to listen to and very instructive.  Her blogs are fun to read and very cool to look at.  I like to point you to an awesome blog once in a while.  This is definitely an awesome blog.  Here is a link to one of the youtube videos for one of the Classic Retro Glamour Videos. 



Thank you for viewing this video today People.  Have a great day.

Leslie

DIY natural beauty treatments

Ahh, the pleasure of doing things yourself.  Making something and knowing what goes into it.  In the spur of the moment you can make your own hand or body scrub and have the satisfaction of knowing all the ingredients that have gone into it.  There are so many home made treatment that you can DIY.  Most of the ingredients can be found in your kitchens, or in your beauty cabinet.  Here is a list of the things you can make and the things you can do with them.

Baking soda:

You can mix this with salt and turn it into a facial or body scrub.  Mix equal parts.  Table spoon to table spoon.  You can also take a table spoon of baking soda and use it as no-poo to clarify your hair and remove product build up.
Mix equal parts of baking soda and salt and wet your tooth brush with peroxide.  Use this once or twice a week to brush your teeth, you have just made a home made teeth whitener.

Cocoa:

This can be used as a substitute for bronzer.  Just pore a bit into a plate and use your bronzer brush and put it on as usual.  You can also use it with equal parts shampoo to shine up brown hair.   Apply a little bit of cocoa into some Vasaline and a touch of brown sugar, and you have a pretty  and tasty shade of brown lip gloss.

Cinnamon:

You can also use this as a blush or bronzer.  Mix this with Vasaline & sugar and make a gloss.

Olive oil:

Heat 1/4 cup for 20 seconds in the microwave and you have an instant hot oil treatment.

Mix with brown sugar and you have a hand and body scrub.  Any essential oil can be added by using a few drop in the mixture.

A few drops in the palm of your hand, rubbed across your face and then wipe with a paper towel or a warm wash cloth acts as a makeup remover.

A drop or two under makeup as a makeup primer.  Or in the hands as a moisturizer.

Use as a cuticle oil.

Mix 1 egg yolk, 1 Tablespoon Honey, 1 Tablespoon olive oil and apply to your face for 20 minutes as a facial mask.  Rinse with a warm wash cloth and your face with be toned and cleansed.

Add a few drops to bath as a bath oil.




Preperation H:

Under the eyes as a dark circle remover.
Rubbed on the glutes and the thighes as a cellulite reducer.  

Deodorant:

Did you know that you can use Deodorant to cure razor bumps and razor stubble?!?  That is crazy  news to me.  You can also use it inside of smelly sneakers to remove yucky odor.  I suppose that means you can also rub it on your teens smelly feet?

Vasaline or petroleum jelly:

Use as an eye make up remover, body butter, eye brow wax, cuticle cream, chapped lip treatment.  Or mix 1 cup petroleum jelly with 2 cups of Epsom salt, you can add a few drops of essential oil if you like, and use it as a hand, feet or body scrub to remove dead skin cells.

Epsom Salt:

This can be used as a laxitive by adding a couple of tablespoons to a cup of warm water and drinking it.
Add 2 cups to a bath and detox your body a couple of times a week.
Add 1 cup to a foot bath before a pedicure and soak for 15 minutes for a nice refreshing treat.
Mix 1 bag of Epsom salt with 10 drops of your favorite essential oil and a few drops of your favorite color of food coloring.  Mix in a plastic bowl.  You have now made home made bath salts.  Store in an air tight container.  This will keep for 6 months.
Use them plain as bath crystals.


There are so many more things you can do from home.  You can make a avocado face mask.  A mayo conditioner.  Add polish remover to a half empty bottle of polish to refresh it.  I have tried all of the above treatments except the Epsom salt laxative.  That one scare the poop out of me!  Get it!   haha.

Well People, I hope that there is one or more that you may want to try.  It could help you be thrift or just help you have fun.  Enjoy.



Leslie

The many fantasitc and fun nail stampers.

So, you want to have nails that look professionally manicured. You can't afford to treat yourself every week. There are a plethora of nail stamp companies out there that want your dollar. First and foremost is Konad. They are by far the most well known in the USA. You can find them online and in some mall kiosks. For $25.99 you can purchase the most basic Konad kit. It comes with 2 plates of stamps (7 per plate I believe) 3 polishes, 1 scrapper and the stamp pad.

There is also Nakomi. You can find this kit sold on click here The kit can be purchased for $59.99. It includes 4 plates that contain 48 designs,6 polishes,50 nail crystals, 1 stamper and 1 scrapper.

Essence stampy is available at Ulta cosmetics and on their website. The price for this kit is $2.99. This has 1 plate of 7 designs, 1 stamper and 1 scrapper.

The kit that I purchased is the monster bundle. It comes with 21 plates with 126 designs, 1 stamper, 1 scrapper and a plate holder. I paid $17.99 plus 6 bucks shipping and handling.

While at a kiosk in the mall I had a technician apply stamps from the Konad stamps. They are very crisp looking and apply a nice coating of polish. I had to walk away because I couldn't quite justify the cost to myself while I was Christmas shopping for others.

I have been really playing with the monster bundle since receiving it. It doesn't apply as dark of a coat of polish as the Konad plates. However the images show up nicely and the polish looks a bit more lacy not being as thickly applied. If you can afford the Konad plates, I say go for it. The monster bundle is a great bargain. Most of the designs are quite attractive and all of them apply easily. The first few tries may take practice, but after doing it on a couple of nails, you will get the hang of it. I must say that I do like the overall look. I will certainly be buying some of the individual Konad plates. I'll let you know how they work out for me.

Leslie

Black swan, the movie and the makeup.

Black swan came out in limited showings on Dec 3, 2010.  It is already garnering much attention for the actresses Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis.  They are being touted as Oscar contenders.  I've yet to see the movie, but the trailer is astounding.




The story is based on swan lake.  Portman plays a character named Nina.  A pushed to the edge ballerina, who is emtionally battered by her stage mother.  She is suffering delusions and hallucinations.  She has been cast as the Swan Queen.  The part calls for her to be able to access both the Sweetness and innocence of the White swan as well as the seductive blissfulness of the Black swan.  Reality starts to slip from Nina's grasp once Lily (played by Mila Kunis) arrives as her understudy.  Lily is there to draw the darkness out of Nina.

This is what the basic narrative of the movie is.  It is a thriller to say the least.  I'm not sure that I want to see it in theaters or wait for blue ray.  I'm not a huge fan of such dark psychological thrillers.  What fascinates me is the makeup.  The makeup designer on this film is Oscar winning makeup artist Judy Chin.  I love how she made Nina's eyes very swan like.  As you can see by the images from IMBD.

The look was achieved using Mac cosmetics.  To set the base of the look, Ivory foundation was applied to the forehead and upper cheekbones.  Then Mac Chromaline was used in silver, and mixing medium to create the feathery eyes you see on the swan.  Mac Chromaline red was used to line beneath the eyes.  Thus crafting the elegant swan like eyes.  Mac lip liner -vino set the line on the lips.  Then they were filled in with Dubonnet.   The entire look has a lot of shading and highlighting techniques used to build the dramatic look you see in the final version.


The film promises to be an edge of your seat, roller coaster ride.  If you have seen it please leave your comments regarding your thoughts on the movie.  I would love to hear what you think of it.


Leslie

Scandle!

This is so amazing that I have to tell you about it! There is this product that is so creative in its idea and usefulness, it is called the Scandle! It is a candle that is also a lotion. How cool is that? When I ran across this website I was thrilled. It is so exciting to come across new ideas and products. This is a soy candle that can be used as a body lotion and moisturizer as well as a massage oil. It is an amazing spa-like treat for yourself of for someone else that you love. Or buy one as a gift and treat yourself too.

http://www.abodycandle.com/shimmering_lotion.php

When I find something cool like this, I just have to share it with my people.


Leslie

The Beautiful life found the beautiful life

Today I was playing on stumble upon. If you haven't signed up for this site you really should. It can fill hours of boredom with random stumbling of your chosen interests. Well, I was stumbling, As I mentioned before, and came across the following link

the other beautiful life

Naturally, this made me curious. So I did a search on beautiful life to see what other sorts of sites there are out there that could remotely be close to the interests we share on this site. Here is what I found.
the first

the second

and the third

Beautiful Life

View more presentations from thiru.kalpa.

http://www.youtube.com/user/m1ssd1tz?feature=mhum

It looks pretty familiar doesn't it? These are the random things that I do in my beautiful life, when I am bored.

Leslie

Cirque du Soleil

I have never been to a Cirque du Soleil show.  I imagine it would be spectacular.  That is definitely on my Bucket List.  After a bit of research I've found that there are so many details to consider and prepare for a show of this magnitude to happen as it should.

There are writers and directors, set and prop designers, director of creation, costume design, composers, musical directors, choreographer, lighting, sound, acrobatic performance coordinator, and acrobat rigging and equipment designer.  Then or course there is all of those amazingly skill acrobats and contortionists.  But my favorite part in all this mix is Nathalie J. Simmard.  This brilliant self taught makeup artist is the makeup designer for Cirque du Soleil. Miss Simmard designs the looks and then trains the acrobats to apply their own makeup.  So, each performer is responsible for their own

We apply our makeup everyday.  It becomes sort of our routine mask.  But stretch your imagination for a bit to dream of what it would be like to wear the fantastical creations designed for the many different shows of Cirque du Soleil over the many years that they have been in existence.

I've managed to find a few Cirque du Soleil tutorials on Youtube.  As well as a few photos sprinkles in among them.  My people, I hope you enjoy.  Have some whimsical fun as you view the skilled application of these out of the world looks.

This video may have the sound track removed as it had not been approved by WMG.



I'm so pleased you stopped by to view these videos and visit my blog.


Leslie

My top ten beauty product choices of the past decade.

My top ten beauty product choices of the past decade.

Wow, People we are almost through the first decade of the 2000's. It is amazing how quickly it has passed. Over the past 10 years I am sure that you have tried and tossed dozens of beauty products. Some are completely wonderful, and others are garbage from the word go. I have long forgotten the garbage products. But there are so many that stand out over these past Ten Years. I'd like to take this opportunity to share my top Ten list for the first decade of 2000's

1. Urban Decay primer potion.

This has kept my peepers fresh from the time my shadow goes on throughout the day.

2. Fiber wig mascara.

This gives your eyes the look of wearing false eyelashes without looking fake.

3. Sally Hanson hard as nails.

This polish has helped me to get thicker, healthier, longer nails.

4. Makeup forever microperfecting primer.

Makeup forever primer leaves your skin with the perfect foundation for holding your makeup in place. It is very picture worthy.

5. Makeup forever HD microfinish powder.

HD microfinish powder leaves your face ready to be photographed or filmed, and look flawless while you do.

6. Benefit erase paste.

This is a wonder paste that is perfect for covering flaws, such as acne, scars and dark under eye circles. As well as a butterfly rash on your cheeks.

7. Peter Thomas Roth lashes to die for mascara.

I use this for everyday wear. It gives long defined eyelashes.

8. Lime Crime magic dust.

A miracle for long lasting impressive eyes. Certain shades work well as blush or even lipstick if mixed with a clear gloss. Very versatile.

9. Dead sea salt products.

The salt is terrific for keeping your hands exfoliated, and buffing the yucko stuff off of your dry feet.

10. Bio oil.

Bio oil has been great for helping my scars to heal, using on my face for wrinkle prevention and smooth healthy skin.

These are my top of the top this past decade. Tell me people, what are the top ten for your past decade. Write in and tell me about in your comments. I can't wait to hear all about it!!

Leslie
 

Gwyneth Paltrow Brings down the house on Glee

Holy Smokes!  Did you see Gwyneth on Glee last week?  Sue Sylvester seizes on another opportunity for control.  She uses a sick student as a biological weapon to take out the principal thus leaving her in charge.  After that Mr Shue is brought down by the Sylvester flu epidemic. Ms. Holly Holliday is brought in as Shue's Spanish class sub.  I was all like "Mr Shue who?"  She was AMAZING!  First showing up in a flash back that Kirt has when asking her to fill in for the ill Mr. Shuester.  He remembers her singing in his English class, conjunction junction.  Of course the daffy character Holly Holliday says "I thought you'd never ask" Or something to that affect.  She gets the kids all riled up about doing things different while the teacher is away.  So, they play.  And it is good.  Holly accepts a throw down challenge from Rachel.  She breaks out in song with Cee-Lo's "Fuck you" Re-dubbed for the show as "Forget you"  She completely PWN Rachel.  Hilarity ensues As Sylvester goes all control freak and stops serving tots in the lunch room.  This leads to Mercedes stuffing tots up the tailpipe of Sue's Le Car.  This gets Holly fired as a permanent fill for Will, and back down to sub teacher status she goes.  Once Mr Shue is back his class isn't thrilled about the old music and structure that he brings with him, despite their love for him. They enjoyed the musical explorations. Will decides to ask Holly to help him make singing in the rain more modern.  She says, "I thought you'd never ask".  Sort of a catch phrase for her.  The show ends with glee singing a Rocking version of Singing in the rain/Umbrella. 

This show is so happy to watch.  It has been a fizzle the past few weeks for me.  So this weeks appearance of Gwyneth infused it with a whole new energy.  She was stunning as usual.  She had several looks on the show. A gogo type singer look, the sleek hiphop look when singing Cee-Lo, and a neutral look as Mary Todd Lincoln. I had to find out who did her makeup and how it was done.  You'll find a video below of the artist that works on Gwyn.  It is a really short video.  Her look is very simple and easily achievable.  I think you will enjoy it.  Also at the end of this article you will find the video from Glee with the cast singing, Singing in the rain/Umbrella.  Watching these two videos will lift you up, give you ideas for your "look" and get your foot tapping.  Ain't it a Beautiful Life?

Leslie

A Royal wedding announcement

Now my people, who didn't see this one coming? Come on. Speak up!? Who didn't see it coming. For darn near 10 years our Prince Willy has been playing house with the beautiful young commoner (as they say in the Royal Palace)Kate Middleton. By most state laws in America and some laws in other countries in the world they would be considered legally married already. So, the whole land has been waiting with much anticipation and speculation as to when this Union would take place.  Apparently even bookies have been making book on the date of the announcement.  Tada! Low and behold Prince Willy popped the question on the most romantic of adventures while shooting unsuspecting animals in the wilds of Africa on safari. I can just imagine it in my head. "oh Kate will you do me the honor... Oh, YES William, YES! YES" Kate says in interviews that it was a truly romantic and private moment. Aw shucks.  Those two goofy kids.  Just shooting big game in the wilds of Africa and being all romantic.  I just feel all gooshie inside.  No really,  I'm just so happy that they are planning their future together. I wish them the best. Here is a little photo of them making their announcement, and a photo of the ring that William gave her. It is the same ring that his Father gave to his mother. William says that he gave it to Kate so that his Mother would be part of it all. I think that is very sentimental and lovely of him.

Don't they make a beautiful pair.  Now we have seen the ring.  Isn't that usually the first question after the engagement?  OHHHH, let me see the ring.  Then the girls start talking about what kind of dress you are going to get.  I thought Diana was a beautiful bride.  Her dress was gorgeous.  The one word of advice I'd offer lovely Kate is to skip the mile long train on the gown.

 That train gave the poor girl so much trouble during her long, long walk down the isle.  It was a beautiful wedding.  I am sure that William and Kate will have a wonderful wedding and a wonderful, beautiful life.  They have already started it in a much different way.  By starting on their terms.  I wish them the very best.  Happy Royal Wedding To you William and Kate.

Leslie

Hissy fit clock pot by Reggie Wells

Oh My Gosh!!! You won't believe this.  But I won!!!  It's true. I totally won.  I won a contest through beauty blitz.  This is the third contest in about 18 months that I have won through them.  Two of them two weeks in a row!  Woot!  This is such a grand run of luck I feel like I should run out and buy a lotto ticket.  I really should.  So, this weekend I get this thing in the mail that I thought was for my husband but low and behold it was for me.  It was the Hissy fit clock pot by Reggie Wells.  This particular clock pot is the eye shadows.  There is another one that is foundation and blush.  I think there might be lipstick, but don't quote me on that.  Anyway, I have the purples and blues in the eye shadows.  They are not my usual colors, but it is really fun to try new shades.  The colors are laid out in three shades a piece at 3, 6 9, and 12 o'clock.  In a lovely bronze colored compact with a mirror.  The compact is over sized from your usual sized compact.  In the center of the clock is a circle of shadow primer.  This is really laid out well.  The designer put a lot of thought into this.  I made a little video for you to see how the product looks and what I think about the clock pot. 

Lorac box office sensation-what I spent my gift card on.

Hello People,
I hope you all are well this flu season. If you haven't already, and have a weak immune system or are around someone who has, please remember to get your flu shot.
Last month my mom sent me a wonderful gift card for my birthday. I took the opportunity to spend it at JcPenny this week. Since there is a Sephora there I used it to get the Lorac box office sensation gift box. I've never used Lorac so it was something I was curious to try it. Here is what it looks like:

 
There are two tiers of eye shadows.  The colors are in neutral, and also in bright colors that are matte and semi shimmer.  The bottom tier is half lip glosses and half blushes.  The lip shades are from light to dark and the blush/bronzer is from a lovely bronzish brown to a light shimmery pink.  The shadows have browns, blues, purples, pinks, whites, creams, greys, black, yellow and a gorgeous teal color.  I used this palette today, and found it easy to use.  The product went on smoothly.  A little product went a long way.  It is highly pigmented.  My makeup had great staying power all day.  No touch ups required.  Other than the lips that is.  This is going to be a fun kit to go traveling with.  Everything you need except foundation, mascara and liner is included.  However I did take the dark black color and use it as a powder liner and it looked great.

Well people, that is my take on lorac.  If you haven't tried it, it is totally worth giving it a try.

Leslie

October/November favorites and one product fail

Hello People,
In this video I am sharing with you a montage of my favorite products, and one product fail. I also want to talk to you about self image. It is something that I have been reading a lot about online at other blogs. So many people of all ages are struggling with self image. How others perceive us and treat us, and how we want to portray ourselves. Face it, no one wants to be teased or bullied for trying to express who they are in dress or style. I would like to offer a few words of advice. As you will hear in the video, my dogs say that if someone doesn't like the way you look you should tell them to "woof off"

Leslie

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Giveaway from Beauty Ambition blog

Hello people,

I have a very exciting giveaway to tell you about. The lovely host of Beauty Ambition, Evelyn, is giving away Urban Decay love NYC book of shadows lll. This is a very cool contest. If you don't already have a previous book of shadows, or just want an extra one, this is a terrific contest.
Just zip on over to this website
Leave a comment with your email. All the rules are listed on her site. I wish you all the best of luck my people!

Leslie

The season of 5-7 pounds is upon us, how will you survive it?

Hello my People,
Oh yes, Halloween is over. The candy hangover is still lingering in the air. Now we have the Turkey coma, the Christmas candies, cookies and cakes. Then we have New Years Eve. A holiday fixated on booze and heavy food. Oh my, how is one to make it through without gaining all that holiday weight? I've done a little research for you my people.

Ten ways to survive the holiday weight gain:

1. Never arrive Hungry. Have a snack before you head to your party. Choose something healthy and filling like and apple or an orange. Drink plenty of water, to stay hydrated and avoid the bloat of eating all the salty and sugary goodness.

2. Divert your attention. Don't let the food be the sole focus of the party. Focus on the people, mingle a little. Play games if there are games. Dance if there is dancing. Whatever is happening at the party, get involved, and avoid the food. You really will have more fun.

3. Keep your tempo slow and steady. By taking smaller bites and really savoring the flavors of the food, you will enjoy it so much more. Sample small amounts of the foods you like, and then you won't feel deprived.

4. Keep track of your portion sizes. That was as stated in number three, you can eat more variety but smaller portions. A little bit of this and a little bit of that. But not end up feeling miserable and guilty.

5. Be smart about family style/buffet service. If there are fruits and veggies available make those fill half of your plate. The other half is for your most favorite foods on display. That will help you keep it light and healthy.

6. Limit your alcohol consumption. I know that sounds like no fun at all. When the holidays are over and you haven't gained any weight you'll thank me. I didn't say you couldn't enjoy a drink. Just try to enjoy your drink. Don't drink it too fast and you're bound to enjoy it more, plus end up wanting less.

7. When choosing sweets, eat the one that you'll enjoy the most. Just like those chocolates that have a variety in a box. You know the ones, the ones you eat only the chocolate covered caramel and leave the fruity filling ones. If you want that cheese cake have it, but don't eat the chocolate cake too.

8. Bring your own. If you want to be sure there is diet soda, bring your own. The same goes for other eats and treats. If you want to make certain that you have your trusty safe food or beverage, bring your own.

9. Don't be a taster. If the party is at your house, make sure you have a taste tester other than yourself. Ask a significant other. They love to help. It's you and them against the holiday season! Better yet,throw caution to the wind and don't taste it at all. Say it's your sense of adventure, and trust in your cooking skills.

10. Walk it off. Try to take an after dinner walk on Turkey day. Get out and enjoy the Fall season. If you go shopping spend more time walking the mall than usual. Climb the stairs instead of taking the elevator, take that tired old dog for a walk so they don't gain the holiday weight either. Basically, get physical. Start your New years resolution on Turkey day. That way you have your fitness routine down when all the weight loss commercials hit January 1st. You will be able to smiley widely and say, I didn't gain a pound during the holidays. In fact I lots weight!

Happy Holidays People,

Leslie

Lime Crime cosmetics and it's wonderment.

Oh, the allure of the amazing products that Doe Deere From Lime Crime Cosmetics creates.  The brilliance sparkleness of radiant color streams from each product as it sings it's siren's song.  Calling you to depths of color payoff of the likes you have never known.  Yes, I can say that in all honesty.  As I have succumbed to the call of colors cry from Lime Crime.  My brightly colored blue box arrived Friday.  I ordered Dragon scales, Cupcake Thief eye-shadows, and Cosmopop lipstick.  It took all my will power to not order all the lovely shades of splendor available.  Alas, these are the shades I allowed myself.  You can see the swatches and an eyeshadow and lipstick demo in the following video.  Enjoy fellow cosmetic enthusiasts!







Thank you all,
Leslie

Halloween costumes in a snap

Feeling a little pressure to come up with a costume?  Can't quite decide what you want to be?  Well, I can help with that.  There are so many companies that make kit these days.  I have put together a few of these pre-made kits to show you. 

Starting with a few of the kits that Sephora has to offer:
From top to bottom there is Vampire in a box, Peacock, Showgirl and Devil.  Accessories not included.  The kits are all so lovely.  The colors are all beautifully put together and they have great step by step instructions.  You can find video demonstrations for how to do each kit online at www.Sephora.com.

www.starcostumes.com provides you with some very cool, creative ideas for getting your Ghoul on.  There are makeup kits, as well as costumes, wigs, masks, and eyelashes. 
Here are just a couple kits that I liked:

World of warcraft night elf kit.

Avatar na'vi kit.

Other internet sites that are great for getting your halloween goodies are:
www.amazon.com
OrientalTrading.com
www.sillyfarm.com

If you want to do a costume off the rack locally, Party city is great for kits and for costumes.  Plus you can pick up your party supplies at the same time. Have a blast as you shop for yourself and for others to prepare for this time of year.  Two weeks to go. 


Leslie

They say you can tell a lot about a person by their smile.

People say you can tell a lot about a person by their smile.  I know that a smile can make a great first impression.  I have had smile issues for a good chunk of my adult life.  As a young teen my dentist thought my teeth had too much of a gap on the bottom.  I had to wear rubber bands and spacers to push them closer together. This did such an awesome job that I grew up with teeth stacked on top of each other like a bull dog.  Lovely looking!  
It bothered me, but I hid it well.  They were on the bottom, and thus easier to hide.  The over crowding of these teeth caused a bit of chipping.  Now you have the back ground.  Here is the meat of the story.  

Last week I got my chipped teeth built up with a dental compound that matches my tooth color.  It is sort of like acrylic nails but harder.  The process was ummmmm, interesting.  But I really like the results.  Yes, my teeth are still crowded.  The work that was done makes them look like they aren't though.  The Dentist did a lot of sanding and grinding and buffing oh my!  Now my smile is something a bit more OMPH!  I quite enjoy it.  If there is a little something; something you are wishing you could correct in your grin, just do it.  Talk to your Dentist.   You might be surprised at what they are able to do.  Some of it is relatively affordable.  Being able to smile pretty for the camera, makes for a truly beautiful life.  
I encourage you to take care of yourself well, and have a beautiful life for yourself today.
Leslie

October is breast cancer awareness month

As you know by now, breast cancer is an issue that has been up close and personal with me. I'd like to remind you all if you have breast you should be examining them. Even as young as your 20's you should be doing a monthly self breast exam. In your 30's you should be continuing this practice and adding yearly mammograms to the routine. If you even suspect that you have something to be concerned about, Never, Ever EVER let a doctor blow you off or make you feel stupid. It is your body and you know it better than anyone in the world. You could say you have a masters degree in YOUR NAME HERE ology. For me that would be Lesliesbodyology.

Today I was using stumble upon. That tool rocks! Anyway, while using this I found some posters of an ad campaign for breast cancer awareness that was done overseas. They used body paint and... Well here. Let me just show you the images. They make a profound statement about how we focus too much on stuff we shouldn't and not enough on stuff that we should. This is rated R.

Leslie

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Henna How To

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

In recent months I have been changing many external things in my life to try and keep me internally healthy. One I have shared with you in detail not long ago was becoming a vegetarian. But I have also switched from over the counter hair color to a more plant based product. Henna. For months now I have been using Persian blonde by rainbow henna. This is considered neutral henna. But it really isn't henna at all. It comes from the Senna plant. Yea, that's right the one you hear about on all those laxative commercials. Same plant. I guess it has lots of uses. It is the only way to go lighter using plant based products. Henna will only do brown, red and black. So, I have been doing the senna and have decided to go a bit darker for Fall/Winter months. I made this little how to video in case you have thought about trying to use henna yourself. This is very conditioning. It coats the hair shaft and makes the hair texture feel thicker, and appear shinier. If you try it, I believe you will like it. Grab some popcorn and enjoy the movie!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

To meat or not to meat.

About a year ago I made a commitment. I watched my daughter go through the process of living a vegetarian lifestyle, and she was doing so great health wise she was positively shining with a healthy glow. Seeing this, I decided this is a commitment I want to make. The day I chose to make it, was on Thanksgiving. The
biggest meat day of the year! LOL. I got my after dinner sleep on from eating a plate full of carbs. It was truly awesome. About mid year I got a bit of a craving for some hormel chili. BIG mistake. OIJ, did that stuff make me hurl. Not so nice. At that time I was also fighting off the massive fever from having an infection from the implant from breast reconstruction. Also not so nice. Other than that one slip up, I will have made it through a whole year in just a couple more months. The funny thing is. It was super easy. I have made a video to explain most of it to you. If you have any questions about it just email me here at the sight and I will be happy to help you in anyway I can. If you don't really have anything you want to ask but just don't like vegetarians, don't watch the video or email. Thanks!

Leslie