July GLOSSYBOX!

Happy August, internet!  I realize it's not July anymore, but I just received my July Glossybox, so here it is!  This month was supposed to be a Canada's 145th birthday theme...not sure how these products represented that, but sure, why not.  My box contained:

Zoya Nail Polish - Summer 2012 is going to be a super stylish season for nails with the latest offering, designed by the Zoya experts.  It is kissed by sea and sand with the famous, full-coverage Zoya formula.  Full size!  0.5oz/$8.00

LOVE the colour they sent.  Not sure if it shows up to it's full potential in the photo, but it's a beautiful shimmery purple with silver microflecks.  It actually reminds me quite a bit of the purple shade in the NARS Eurydice eyeshadow duo I posted last month.  I want to take off my nail polish and try this stuff right now!

Zoya Nail Polish in Carly (it's quite a bit more purple in person), 0.5oz/$8.00

Alessandro International - Pedix Heel Rescue Balm protects and nourishes your skin with shea butter, allantoin and tea-tree oil.  100mL/$19.95

I really liked the last foot cream I got from Glossybox - I believe it was Curel - and I finished the tube of it a few weeks ago.  So I was glad to receive another one to try out.  That being said, this one is WAY more expensive than the last one (it was 100mL/$3.99), and the tube is much smaller.  It does have a rather nice, peppermint-y scent to it.  We'll see whether this is worth the rather ridiculous price tag.

Alessandro International Pedix Heal Rescue Balm, 100mL/$19.95

John Frieda Frizz-Ease Xtra Strength Serum - Instantly and dramatically transforms coarse, wiry, unruly frizz for ultra-sleek, purely polished, super-shiny results.  Full size!  50mL/$14.99

This stuff has been around forever.  I remember my friend's using it back in junior high.  I've always had fairly straight hair, and while it does occasionally get a bit frizzy, it's never been enough to warrant using a serum.  But, since I now have this, I guess I'll give it a try and see what happens!  Hopefully it won't end up making my hair too greasy...

John Frieda Frizz-Ease Xtra Strength Serum, 50mL/$14.99

Eucerin - Eucerin Calming Creme is a daily soothing moisturizer that prevents the reoccurrence of itchiness and reduces the risk of further irritation due to dryness.  Calming Creme contains Natural Colloidal Oatmeal and its fragrance-free glycerin formula provides hydration for 24 hours.  200g/$12.00

Again, another product that's been on the market for quite some time.  The sample is very tiny, but I can always use another moisturizer to throw in my purse.  Probably my least favourite sample of the box.

Eucerin Calming Creme, 200g/$12.00

Dove Softening Creme Body Wash - Get visibly more beautiful skin in just 1 week.  Use daily for soft, smooth skin.  Full size!  200mL/$5.99

Hurray for full size products!  Not a super exciting sample, but I can take it to the cottage or something.  From a first impression, it looks like it will be quite moisturizing, and has the traditional Dove soap smell.  

Dove Softening Creme Body Wash, 200mL/$5.99

BeautySoClean Sanitizer Wipes - These convenient cosmetic sanitizer wipes are effective for sanitizing makeup that accumulates visible debris like dust, lint and food particles.  48 pack wipes/$12.50

This sample came with a pamphlet that I've been terrified to read as I'm sure it will tell me that all of my makeup products are completely contaminated by germs.  Gross.  And I really don't want to have to throw out all of my lipsticks or something.  But I think these wipes are a pretty neat idea, and I'll definitely be using them on a few of my most-used products.  I'm just going to avoid that pamphlet...

BeautySoClean Sanitizer Wipes, 48 pack wipes/$12.50

And that's it for this month!  Overall, I'd say it was a 50/50 box.  I really like the nail polish, and the foot cream and sanitizer wipes will be useful. The body wash and lotion, probably not so much.  But as per usual, the full-size John Frieda sample paid for the cost of the box.  Not too shabby!

WIN! Urban Decay De Slick

Happy Sunday, internet!  Today's WIN! product is Urban Decay De Slick Oil-control Makeup Setting Spray.  This is not a new product on the market by any means, but it's a recent discovery for me. 

Urban Decay De Slick Oil-control Makeup Setting Spray, $41.00/6oz

The past few months I've been trying out several primers as I tend to get oily skin part-way through the day and then my foundation ends up basically melting off my face.  And with the ridiculous heat we've been experiencing lately, it's just not a good look.  So, I've found a few cream/lotion primers that work well under foundation, but they just weren't cutting it under the lighter products, like my tinted moisturizer.  Yes, I know, the whole point of a tinted moisturizer is that you're not supposed to have to wear all that extra stuff like primer and powder.  But that just doesn't work for me.

So, I was in Sephora picking up a few things, and realized I was about $20 off the 500 point gift on my Sephora card.  I decided to pick up a few travel-sized products that I'd been wanting to test to make up the difference, and one of them was De Slick.  I'd heard a lot about the Urban Decay setting sprays, I know a lot of people swear by the All Nighter one, so I was excited to give this a try.  I'd also read that it's much more effective if you spray it both under and over your makeup.

I won't lie - the main reason why I hadn't tried this previously is that it's not the cheapest product on the market.  But it is definitely worth it, in my opinion.  I've tried it under all types of face makeup - foundation, BB cream, tinted moisturizer - and they all stay in place all day with this stuff!  I wouldn't say there was a huge difference compared to my regular primer for foundation, so I probably wouldn't use this for that, but it was a huge help for the tinted moisturizer.

To apply, I spritzed it 4 times over my clean and moisturized face and let it dry before applying my makeup.  I then sprayed it 4 more times after I was completely finished my makeup.  I've heard some people say it doesn't do as well overtop of powder, but it seems to work fine for me.

Long story short (too late, I know) - if you're in the market for an easy-to-use primer, give this one a try!  You can also get the travel-sized bottle for under $20 if you're not sure about it.  But if you're anything like me, you'll probably be going back to purchase the full-size within a week.

My Birthday Presents :)

Hey internet!  How's it hangin'?  I'm feeling particularly productive at the moment as it is my first day of my summer schedule at work, and I got home at 4:30 this afternoon!  What is this craziness?  It's like I can actually get things done during the day!  So, in celebration of my not-procrastinating-by-sitting-around-watching-TV-and-not-actually-doing-what-I'm-supposed-to-be-doing-and-instead-actually-doing-things, I thought I'd give you all a quick run down of what I got for my birthday last week.

First off, I took the week off from work and headed up to BF's cottage with my parents, which was amazing.  It was their first time there, and I think my mom would move in right now if she could.  Dad spent the whole time golfing, so I know he had fun.  For the actual long weekend, my friends from university all came up to hang out, which was great.  Honestly, I would've been happy just having everyone there for my birthday, but because my friends are so wonderful, they got me presents, too!

I feel like I should start by saying that everything kind of followed one of two themes - either related to this blog, or with my upcoming trip to LA with BF to visit our friends in September.

So, the gang from university has always gone together to get group presents for each other.  This dates back to our days in first year when we couldn't afford to buy the birthday person a beer let alone a decent present on our own.  Over the years, we've all gotten some pretty stellar present.  My personal favourite is still the GPS they got me the year I got my first car.  Everyone refused to drive with me until I had one because I have the absolute worst sense of direction in the world.  But this year, they decided to prove that yes, they DO follow my blog, and they got me some re-stock on a few items that I raved about in a previous post - the Soap and Glory Clean On Me body wash, and The Righteous Butter body butter!  I was very happy with this because I'm almost out of the body wash, and it meant I had a whole new tub of body butter to sniff while getting a slight buzz from the amazing scent.  As a bonus, they also got me the Soap and Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Lip Plumping Lipgloss in Clear.  Seriously, I cannot get over the freaking amazing names for these products! 

Soap and Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Lip Plumping Lipgloss (Clear)

Now, when this stuff says "lip plumping", it actually means "I'm gonna make your lips tingle to much you'll think you kissed a metal pole in the middle of winter".  I actually just put some on as I was typing this so that I'd have the full effect.  I'm pretty sure it doesn't so much make your lips bigger as it does make you sit there pretending to look like a duck because your lips feel so weird.  That being said, it's pretty cool stuff.  And makes for an interesting conversation after a few glasses of wine...

My friends also got me a gift card to go buy more stuff for my blog.  They know me and my shopping habits so well :).

BF's mom and dad decided to get me a present, too, this year, which was really very kind of them.  I got a text message from CF while I was sitting in class (with no internet) the weekend before my birthday.  She asked for a list of present ideas, but they had to follow very specific guidelines - it had to be makeup, had to be cottage-themed, and had to be easy for BF's dad to pick up on his own at the mall.  This turned out to be quite the challenge, as I had no idea what "cottage-themed" makeup was, and I was trying to look everything up on my iPhone in the middle of class while attempting to not draw attention to myself so I didn't get called out by the professor.

Anyway, I gave her a few suggestions, and they ended up getting me a gorgeous NARS eyeshadow duo in Eurydice that I'd been eyeing (haha, get it?) for months, as well as a Sephora Classic Angled Brush that I needed...well, okay, maybe not needed, but definitely wanted.

NARS Eyeshadow Duo in Eurydice (how gorgeous is that purple?)

Sephora Classic Angled Brush

And last, but certainly not least, my parents got me a very cool book called "642 Things To Write About".  I've really been trying to get back into writing, it's something I've not done since high school.  So, I saw this book and immediately thought it would make a great subject for another blog!  I've actually written one entry for it already, feel free to check it out: http://642days.blogspot.ca/.  My goal was to write one entry for it a day, but until I finish my last school assignment for the semester, that is definitely not going to happen.  But soon!

But my big present from my parents was...surfing lessons while I'm in LA!  I've been talking about learning to surf for the last decade, at least.  I'm not sure what it is, maybe my only real connection to my Californian birth, or maybe it's an unhealthy obsession with Gidget (it's true, I have a thing for Moondoggie).  But either way, I'm so excited that I'll finally get to cross this off of my bucket list!  Now I just have to spend the next 2 months practicing swimming so I don't drown in the Pacific Ocean.

So that was my birthday rundown!  Big thanks to all of my wonderful friends and family who made it such a great day.  I wish everyday was my birthday!  And really, it's not just because of the presents...

June GLOSSYBOX!

I'm back from vacation!  Sorry, I know I was supposed to be blogging everyday I was away, but quite honestly, sitting on the dock with a beer was far more important at the time.  But I'm back now, so you can all breathe a sigh of relief.  And what did I find when I arrived home last night?  My June GLOSSYBOX!  Woo!

It's like getting a surprise birthday present, that wasn't really a surprise and I actually had to pay for...but I was still excited to see what was inside!

Here's what I got:

Biore Combination Skin Balancing Cleanser - Have skin that can't make up it's mind?  Achieve the clean you want, without disturbing natural moisture your skin needs - more balanced skin in just 2 weeks! Full size!  200mL/$9.99

Can't say I was super excited for this one.  My skin is ridiculously sensitive when it comes to cleansers and it took me quite a few years to find a good fit with the one I'm using currently.  Plus, drug store brands like Biore are notorious for having alcohol and harsh chemicals in their cleansers, which I try to avoid using.  This one might be getting passed on to one of my friends...

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen Lotion SPF 55 - Ultra-light and fast absorbing, the voted #1 best-feeling sunscreen by Canadian Dermatologists.  Contains HELIOPLEX which provides photostable UVA/UVB protection.  88mL/$15.99

This is actually my favourite type of sunscreen and I've been using it for a few years, so I was a little disappointed to see this in my box - mainly because I'm already so familiar with the product.  But, it's a nice size to throw in my purse and I don't have any of the SPF 55 (I usually go with the 30).

Wella Professionals Ocean Spritz - Free your hair with irresistible chunky texture achieving that matte, carefree beachy hair look. Available exclusively in salons. Full size!  150mL/$16.99

This looks pretty cool, and I like any products that claim to make hair "chunky"...that makes it sounds so attractive...  Planning on trying this one out tonight, so we'll see how it performs!

Olay Regenerist Wrinkle Revolution Complex - Advanced micro-fillers instantly smooth the look of fine lines.  The anti-aging formula, wih a BioPeptide and B3 complex, hydrates and improves the appreance of deep lines in just 14 days!  50mL/$30.99

 

Okay, I know I just had a birthday, but I really don't think I need to be using such a heavy-duty anti-wrinkle cream.  And what the hell is BioPeptide?  I don't think I want any of that anywhere near my face.  This one is going straight to my mom for her to try.

Cover Girl Flipstick-Blendable Lip Duo - NEW!  This double ended lipcolour stick has a side for shimmer, and a side for colour.  Blend shades together to create endless lip looks.  Full size!  3.8gr/$12.50

Holy man, this is a dark colour!  I had to specify my skin tone when I signed up for this and I have no clue what they were thinking when they sent this.  No way I'd actually be able to wear it.  My mom, however, likes dark lip colours, so this one might be going to her, too.

Gillette Venus Embrace Razor - Get ready for the shave fir for a goddess.  Our first women's razor created with 5 blades hugs every curve to get virtually every hair even bikini hair.  An ultra-close shave and incredible Venus smoothness.  Full size!  1 kit/$13.43

I already have one of these, but it's kind of old, so looks like I'll be replacing it sooner than I thought!  Heck, just this alone in the box pretty much pays for the monthly fee.

Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips - Pore Strips are the deepest way to clean your pores.  In just one use, you remove a week's worth of build up dirt - and it only takes 10 minutes (isn't that great?!)  8ct/$9.99

I remember using these as a teenager with my friends when we did at-home "facials" (which pretty much involved washing out face, using one of these, and a Walmart-brad face mask).  But, I still have them in my skincare regimine, because they really do make your pores feel cleaner.  Who knows whether they actually do much good, but they sure are fun, in a weird ripping-off-a-bandaid kind of way.

Overall thoughts - some good stuff, some stuff I've used, and some stuff I'll probably never try.  I'm really excited for the hair spray, and as I mentioned before, getting the razor pretty much covered this mont's cost.  So hopefully my mom appreciates the rest of this stuff! 

Reading At The Cottage

Well, it's Thursday night, and I'm now up at the cottage. We were supposed to be taking a sunset cruise after dinner, but as we didn't even start dinner until 8:00, that kind of went out the window. So here it is, 10:30 and I'm just sitting down to write my daily blog. I have also just been informed that it's "reading time" (although I honestly don't know when isn't reading time up here), so I thought I'd let you know what everyone is reading currently, and then give some options of what I might read while up here, and you can all let me know what you think I should start. So first off, my dad and BF's dad aren't actually reading. They've had a few glasses (bottles) of wine, and are currently roaming the cottage discussing wood frame construction and beam placement. I've chosen to ignore that discussion. My mom is sitting on the chaise part of the couch, and she's just cracked open "Still Life" by Louise Penny. I've never heard of it, but it was recommended as a mystery by CF. I just googled it, apparently it's the first in a series of mystery books. I don't know, not the type of thing I usually read, but we'll see how she likes it. CF is reading a book on Italian gardens, in preparation for their upcoming trip to Italy. And, unfortunately, my dad has sat down next to her and is grilling her on a "monster garden". I'm really hoping he gets into his own book soon, so she can enjoy her reading. I've just been informed of the two book choices I have to get into. CF always recommends books for me to read while at the cottage, and she has yet to steer me wrong, so I'm going to continue to trust her judgement. At the moment, I can either choose: White Rose Rebel by Janet Paisley - I've been told that this is not a high-quality literature book, but that it's entertaining. We'll see how much cerebral effort I'm wanting to put in to reading this weekend. Or, Stray Love by Kyo Maclear - This was the original recommendation from CF, and is probably a much more literarily-rewarding read. I don't know if "literarily" it a word, but if not, I'm making it into one. Oh, and JF is now completing the sudoku in Tuesday's National Post. He wanted me to share that. So, what should I read? Does anyone have any suggestions on must-read books that I may not have already tried?

My Cottage Makeup Routine

Well, I'm now four days into my official vacation, and as of tomorrow morning, I'm off to the cottage for the remainder of my days off.  So, as I'm currently re-packing and re-organizing my makeup bag, I thought I'd give you all a quick run-down of what products make the cut for being shipped off to the cottage, and why they rate getting hauled up there.

1. Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream with SPF 35 (Fair)

This is a must-have product for me for many reasons.  First, it acts as a moisturizer, primer and "foundation" all in one.  Second, it gives surprisingly good coverage for a BB cream.  And third, it has SPF 35, which means I don't have to bring a second sunscreen for my face.  The Smashbox BB Cream has a pretty thick consistency, but it blends quite well once you get it on the skin.  It also is the closest match to my skin tone of probably any face makeup product I currently own.  Only downside - it's kind of expensive at $50/1oz.  I, personally, think it's worth it though.  It's not something I use everyday, but it's perfect for things like the cottage, or to blend in with my heavier foundations for a lighter coverage.

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream with SPF 35 in Fair, $50/1oz

2. NARS Highlighting/Bronzing Blush Duo in Orgasm/Laguna

I use Laguna bronzer everday as a contour shade, so I knew this product absolutely had to come with me to the cottage.  The Highlighting/Bronzing Blush Duo was actually the first NARS product I ever purchased and it was a great investment.  The Orgasm blush is gorgeous and is a perfect everyday shade for a no-makeup makup look.  Plus the bronzer is great for darkening up my complexion a bit once I start getting a tan.  And having both products together makes for a nice, easy-to-pack compact for my minimized makeup bag.

NARS Highlighting/Bronzing Blush Duo in Orgasm/Laguna, $50/0.35oz

3. Bourjois Volumizer mascara

This is the mascara I wear most days, and I really like that you can build it up for a more dramatic effect.  The packaging is pretty cool - it has one wand, but you can open it a different places to dispense more or less product, depending on what look you're going for.  I use the light coverage portion to separate my upper lashes, and to define my lower lashes.  Then I use the heavier application to go over the top lashes for added volume.  Great for the cottage, where mascara is pretty much all I wear on my eyes.

Bourjois Volumizer mascara, $20

4. Blistex Daily Conditioning Treatment with SPF 20

I put this stuff on at every opportunity because why mess with what works!  Blistex has been around for pretty much forever and I have yet to find anything better for a basic lip balm.  And this one has SPF 20, so it is on my lips at all times while I'm outside.  Plus, it's dirt cheap and one pot will last forever.  Everyone should have one of these floating around!

Blistex Daily Conditioning Treatment, sorry, not sure about the price :(

And that is all I plan on taking to the cottage!  Well, aside from an oil-free high-SPF sunscreen.  Now I just have to remember to actually put it on...

My Top 5 Things I Wish I Could Do, But Can't

I'd say that for the most part, I'm a well-rounded person.  I can maintain a decent conversation, I'm (fairly) intelligent, and I can hold my own at most video games.  But there are a few things I wish I was better at, and that unfortunately I'll probably never be able to do.

5. Anything sports related.

I realize this is a pretty broad category, but I am the least athletically-inclined person on the face of the earth.  I spent my entire childhood dancing - ballet, jazz, tap, you name it, I've probably done it.  But you add a ball or a bat to the equation, and I'm completely hopeless.  My elementary school gym teacher nicknamed me the "ball magnet", which got really awkward when I hit my teenage years.  I don't even know how many pairs of glasses I've bent from getting hit in the face.  Dodgeball was the bane of my existence.  Track and field day?  Worst day of the year.  I was always the last person picked for every sport in gym class.

Even now, when actual organized sporting events are few and far between in my life, my lack of athletic prowess manifests itself in other ways.  Going to the gym?  I have fallen off the end of several treadmills.  Bicycles and I definitely do not get along, and the last time I was on roller blades, I ended up with road rash so bad I couldn't sit for a week!  I really hope lack of coordination isn't genetic, or my poor children will be hopeless!

4. Whistle.

I actually used to be able to whistle when I was a kid.  My dad is an expert whistler, and I thought I'd followed in his footsteps.  But then I started playing the flute in seventh grade and I don't know what happened, but I just stopped being able to whistle.  My theory is that playing the flute developed a different set of muscles or something.  Who knows.  All I know is that I'll never be able to whistle along with the Andy Griffith's Show theme song...sigh!

3. Touch my nose with my tongue.

When I was a kid, my best friend could do this, and I always thought it was so cool.  Not sure why...when I think about it now, it's kind of gross.  I think it's one of those things you're either born being able to do, or not.  So I guess I'll never know what the end of my nose tastes like.

2. Go 24 hours without hurting myself.

Along with being the most uncoordinated person alive, I'm also the most accident prone.  I frequently walk into doorframes, bang my head on pretty much anything even remotely at eye level, and trip over my own two feet.  My friends just shake their heads and sigh when they hear me yelp from the next room, it's to be expected at this point.  Most of the time I end up covered in bruises with no idea of where they came from.  Except for the massive one I have on my thigh currently - that came from hitting my leg on the handle on my kitchen cupboard while walking in the dark.  I think yellow-tinged polka dots is a good look for me!

1. Reach things on the top shelf.

I'm short, I came to accept this long ago.  Well, actually, I'm not short, I'm fairly average.  I just happen to have freakishly tall friends, who like to stick things in places I can't reach.  Unless I plan on walking around in stilettos constantly, or bring a step-ladder everywhere I go, I'll just have to continue annoying my friends to get them to reach things for me.  I've also gotten quite proficient in climbing on counters, although this doesn't really work so well with my clumsiness.  And yes, I have fallen off of the counter on more than one occasion.  But I got down the muffin tin first!

As if I didn't have enough nail polish already...

Happy Vacation Day 2, everyone!  I, unfortunately, am not feeling the best at the moment - of course, as soon as I go on vacation, I get sick.  So here's a short post I wrote a while back and didn't get around to posting.  I'll try and have something more interesting for you all tomorrow...in the meantime, try and amuse yourself with this :)

For the past few months, I've been searching EVERYWHERE for Essie Mint Candy Apple nail polish.  I know, it's been out forever, but nowhere near where I live was carrying it in the regular collection.  But then, miracle of miracles, I found it!  I know, everyone is giving a big sigh of relief right now.  It was a fairly dramatic experience.  And then, because I can't just buy one nail polish, I got two more.  All three are Essie, two from the regular collection (Mint Candy Apple and Pansy) and one from the Spring collection (Camera).

From Left: Mint Candy Apple, Camera, Pansy

I tried Camera today on my nails and I really like the colour.  It's a bright coral colour and I like the gel formula.  It's kind of sheer - it took 3 coats to get total coverage - and it's not very glossy when it dries.  But a top coat, which I always use anyways, made up for that.  I'll be interested to see how the other two shades apply.

Essie Camera and OPI Wing It! (ring finger)

WIN! Soap and Glory Products

Long time, no see, internet!  My apologies for the length of time since my last post...I've been rather busy with this annoying thing called school that takes me away from my "real" life.  And by real life, I mean this virtual reality that I normally exist in.

Luckily, I've just start a whole 9 days of vacation, and to make up for the last several weeks, I've decided to blog everyday while I have the time.  In celebration, I'm starting a new feature, WIN!  These posts will be about products that I love in every way, and that you should immediately run out and buy.  Because I know you all take my advice on everything.  I'm planning on also including FAIL product reviews for things that I really really dislike, which probably won't be too many things, as I tend not to purchase products that I haven't researched.  But you never know, I've been known to make a mistake or two from time to time.

Today's WIN! post is actually about two products (two for the price of one! don't you feel special?) that are pretty famous and have been around for a while, but I have only just discovered.  I know, I'm a little slow on the uptake.  The first is Soap and Glory The Righteous Butter, which is a fantabulous body butter, available at Shopper's Drug Mart.  It sells for $18.00/300mL, which is more product than the Body Shop body butter that I had been using for the past decade,for pretty much the same price.  This is a heavy-duty moisturizer that is supposed to be applied after showering for creamy skin.  I have used it like this, and it performs as promised.  However, I typically apply it at night to my elbows and knees (and legs if I happened to have shaved them that day).  It's super moisturizing and absorbs pretty quickly.  But the big selling point for this one is the smell.  If you've ever smelled Soap and Glory's Original Pink scent, you'll know why this body butter is so fantastic.  When I first bought this, I seriously sat there with my nose in the tub, just inhaling it for several minutes.  Luckily, I was alone at the time or my roommate may have had me committed...  Anyways, for the price and amount of product, this is definitely a must-purchase item!

Soap and Glory The Righteous Butter, $18.00/300mL

Product #2 is another Soap and Glory product, and actually the first thing I bought from this line.  I've used it everyday since.  It is Soap and Glory Clean On Me Creamy Clarifying Shower Gel, $14.00/480mL at Shopper's Drug Mart.  Again, this has that amazing smell...I think all of my clothing and bedding smells like Original Pink from all of the products I use with this scent.  It's lightly moisturizing, which is great for my skin type, and gets nicely foamy on my loofah.  Perfect for soap mohawks, should you be so inclined.

Soap and Glory Clean On Me Clarifying Shower Gel, $14.00/480mL

And have I mentioned how great the product names are?  And the nostalgic '50s packaging is super cute.  Makes me want to wear a dress, curl my hair and have people refer to me as Mrs. Cleaver.

My Top 5 Favourite Board Games!

Alright, I'm going to reveal a bit of my true nature here, and geek out on you guys for a few minutes.  My family has always been pretty big into board games, and lucky for me, I've managed to find a group of friends who share my love of games.  I currently have a standing date on Wednesday nights with my roommate and two of our friends for several hours of wine and board games.  It's pretty much my favourite night of the week.  So without further ado, here's my list of my top 5 favourite games!

5. Scrabble - I know, this isn't a particularly exciting game for some people (my roommate flat out refuses to play it), but it's kind of sentimental to me.  When my parents first got married, Scrabble was one of, if not the, first game they bought together.  My dad being the sore loser that he is, tried to insist that "correctly" was spelled with a "k" instead of a "c".  Of course my mom refused to allow that, and for their first Christmas together, she bought him a dictionary and inscribed on the front cover, "so that now we can both spell KORRECTLY".  That was the dictionary I grew up using, so the game has always brought a smile to my face with the memory.  Even still, I can almost be guaranteed to play a game or two with my mom every time I visit home, as my dad has long since given up attempting to beat her at the game.

the same version of Scrabble my parents' bought, from the 1970's

4. Clue - Miss Scarlet, with the wrench, in the billiards room!  Another classic board game, I remember many rounds of Clue Jr. as a kid, with the secret spy magnifying glass, and then graduating to the original Clue as I got older.  I even had the Clue Museum Caper version that I got for Christmas one year.  I recently played the updated version of Clue, which now has bombs and a whole bunch of other crazy stuff.  I think I'm still partial to the old-school version, though.  And have I mentioned that they made a movie out of this game?  It's amazing, probably one of my top 10 favourites.  Hard to go wrong with a Tim Curry cult classic!  If you haven't seen it, it's on Netflix...watch it immediately!

No wonder I was always Miss Scarlet!  She was totally the coolest.

3. Pandemic - This is a fairly new discovery, but it's such a cool game.  In Pandemic, you actually work as a team against the board to try and stop the world from ending.  If you've seen the movie Contagion, it's basically the board game version of that.  What I like about it, is that it's a completely different strategy than most other games since you can work with the other players towards a common goal.  Either everyone wins or everyone loses, and let me tell you, it's not easy to win!  We've been playing for several months, and we're still playing the "easy" version.  It took MANY attempts to beat this thing for the first time, but it's just so much fun to try!  I've never been more determined to stop the zombie apocalypse!

Hey look, Toronto made the board!

2. Munchkin - While not strictly a board game, it does have a board game version.  Plus this game is just too awesome to not include.  Munchkin is actually a card game where you become a character and use special weapons and spells and stuff to defeat monsters.  Yes it is as geeky as it sounds.  But come on, who wouldn't want to be a Level 12 Elf with the Boots of Butt-kicking, an Eleven Foot Pole and the Kneepads of Allure fighting a Level 20 Plutonium Dragon?!  Just so freaking cool.  I've played most of the versions of this game - pirate, zombie, space, spy, super hero, board game version, and the original, with expansions - and really, they just keep getting better.  Whoever Steve Jackson is who came up with this game, he has a pretty great sense of humour.  I kinda wish I was friends with him...

I present thee with the cheese grater of peace!

1. Settlers of Catan - Ah, Catan, if I could count the number of hours I've spent playing this game...well, I'd probably get really depressed and wonder what I'm doing with my life, so we're just not going to go there.  For those of you who have never heard of or played this game - you obviously don't know me personally, because no doubt you'd have been exposed to it already.  Catan is an exploration game where you settle an island and build cities to get points.  There are a few expansions for it, the best of which is Cities and Knights.  We honestly own every version of this in existence, as far as I know - all the expansions, the extra expansions for more players, even the travel version.  We have the regular game, and a separate one for the cottage, that's how often we play it.  I just don't think I can explain how addicting this game is.  If you ever get a chance, I highly suggest checking this out, although if you play with my friends, we can get a little cutthroat.  There, that's fair warning.  Now let the trade embargoes begin!

I specifically bought my dining room table to optimize our Catan playing experience.

Well, that's it for my Top 5 for this week!  I hope you enjoyed it!  I'm now going to go open a bottle of wine to psych myself up for my games night.  To the defender of Catan!

My First GLOSSYBOX!!!

I subscribed to GLOSSYBOX about a month and a half ago, and I've been (not so) patiently awaiting my first month's box to show up in the mail for the past 4 weeks.  I had read the reviews saying that the boxes almost always shipped right at the end of the month, but I couldn't help but hope that this month it might show up a little bit earlier.  Alas, here it is, June 4th, and I just picked up my May box from the mail.  I don't think I've ever been so excited to get a polka-dotted box!  Then again, I've probably never received a polka-dotted box in the mail before.

For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about, GLOSSYBOX is a monthly subscription service that send out 5 sample (and occasionally full-size) products from high-end makeup/skincare/fragrance, etc. brands for $15/month.  I originally signed up for this service as a way to curb my beauty product spending.  I figured that $15 for 5 products was a pretty stellar bargain, as opposed to spending many times more than that on random products I picked up at Sephora or Shoppers Drug Mart.  (Unfortunately, it's done nothing to mollify my MAC obsession...)

The first thing I noticed about my GLOSSYBOX was how pretty it is!  I know, that seems strange, it's just a little box, but really, it's just adorable!  The outer packaging even had their polka-dot logo all over it, and the iconic blush pink box that holds the actual products is quite lovely.  I plan on keeping quite a collection of these to store my jewelry, makeup, etc.  And then the black tissue with a pink bow - how can you not get excited opening this?!

Alright, enough about the packaging, on to the good stuff!  Here's what I got in my GLOSSYBOX, including the description on the card that came in the box.

Curel Foot Cream - Significantly improve the look and feel of even the driest heels and feet with Curel Foot Therapy Cream- hydrates and softens dry, cracked feet in just 2 nights.  100mL/$3.99

This doesn't say it's a full size product, but it's a 100mL container, and if that is the sample size, it's the biggest sample I've ever seen!

Simple Eye Makeup Remover - Simple Eye Makeup Remover effectively removes even waterproof mascara.  Dermatologist tested, Opthamologist tested, Safe for sensitive eyes, contact lens users, hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic.  56mL/$9.99

I'm very excited to try this product.  I actually ran out of my usual eye makeup remover last night, so this was perfect timing!  Plus the fact that it's safe for contacts and hypoallergenic is a bonus, as I do wear contacts occasionally, and I tend to have sensitive skin.

Simple Facial Wash Gel - Simple Refreshing Facial Wash Gel leaves your skin thoroughly cleased and revived, is a perfect blend of our purest skin-loving ingredients.  50mL/$9.99

The second product from the Simple brand (which I'm not familiar with), I'll give this one a try although I'm usually wary of changing up my facial cleanser due to the tendency I have to break out from these products.  I'm hoping the "sensitive skin" aspect will work for me - I guess we'll find out!  If nothing else, it's a great size for travelling!

Pandora's MakeUp Box Lip Gloss OR Lipstick - Pandora's Lip Glosses and Lipsticks are exceptionally formulated to apply with a creamy, non-sticky, hint of spearmint scent or vanilla.  Full Size!  each/$16.00

I think I was most excited for this product when I opened the box as I am a bit of a makeup junkie (if you didn't already know).  I immediately loved the packaging on this one (it has a rhinestone on the lid!).  I received the lip gloss in Feeling Good, and it's a really beautiful bright pinky-red - definitely something I would have picked for myself.  I actually swatched it immediately and then tried it on, so I'll include some pictures.

First impressions - I was slightly skeptical as the gloss appeared a little gooey when I opened the tube, but it applied very smoothly and wasn't sticky at all!  And it has pretty good colour payoff.  The best part is the smell!  Oh my gosh, I could eat this stuff, it smells so good!  My gloss is definitely the spearmint scent they mention in the description, and to me it smells just like Lush's Mint Julips lip scrub (for those of you who may not know what that is, it smells like a polar bear shooter - which you should try if you haven't).  Another bonus - it's made in Canada!  Then again, that might only be exciting for me...

Okay, last product.

Sebastian Professional Volupt Shampoo - Pump up the volume with Volupt shampoo from Sebastian Professional.  We wanted to give you this full size because you deserve it.  250mL of Volupt suds all for you.  Full size!  250mL/$15.78

Well thanks, GLOSSYBOX, I think I'm worth it, too!  Especially since I'm almost out of my current shampoo, and this saves me a trip to the drug store!  Hopefully it makes good on it's "volumizing" claim.  Anything that gives me big hair is great in my books!

Well, that was an incredibly long post, but hopefully you enjoyed it!  I know I enjoyed receiving my GLOSSYBOX...now I just have to wait a WHOLE MONTH for the next one!  Self restraint has never been one of my strengths...

Top 5 things that are better at the cottage

1. Beer.  Don't get me wrong, beer is awesome anytime of the day, but there's something about a cold beer at noon while sitting on the beach, or with cheese a crackers and a game of cards at 5:00.  And yes, that is a tradition.  But really, how can you argue with this?

2. Reading.  I have a challenge now to read a book for every day I'm at the cottage.  So far my record is 10 days and 10 books.   It helps having a former bookstore owner as a personal consultant whenever I'm up there.  I've been lucky enough to read some pretty amazing books that I wouldn't have come across otherwise.  Plus reading is about the only way to make tanning seem somewhat productive.  Or burning, in my case.

3. Groceries.  I know, this seems lame.  But have you ever driven a boat into town, docked it directly outside the store, and then left all the groceries on board while you go have some frozen yogurt?  Or a beer?  It's magical.

4. Board games.  There are never enough hours in a day to play board games at the cottage.  There's just something about sitting in the sunroom at the old games' table with a beer and your best friends that makes for the perfect evening.  And it's not just board games.  It's card games, crokinole, all of those awesome things.  And of course several rounds of Settlers of Catan.

5. Sunsets.  I'll let the picture speak for itself.

I'd also like to give an honourable mention to not wearing bras (a special shout out to CF).

How long until I'm up there again!?

P.S. A special thanks to all of my friends whose facebook pages I got the pictures from.  And of course to BF who lets me visit the cottage whenever I want :)

MAC Hey, Sailor! First Impressions

Yesterday was the in-store launch of the new MAC summer line, "Hey, Sailor!".  I'd checked out the collection online a week ago when it became available, but decided to wait to test out some of the shades before buying as they seemed a bit tricky to wear.  And I was glad I did.  Overall, I felt the collection had some really great pieces and the colours were very on-trend - a lot of vibrant orange and a gorgeous emerald green.  I won't go through all the pieces, but here's a shot of the entire collection.

When I initially saw the online shots of the products, I was super excited for a few of them.  There are 5 eyeshadow shades in the collection, and of the 5, there were 2 that I immediately loved - the bright green and navy shades.

From Left: Crystal Avalanche, Barefoot, Jaunty, Feeling Fresh, Nautical Navy

I ended up purchasing Jaunty - a shimmery, yellow-taupe - and Nautical Navy - a shimmery navy.  I was really tempted to get Feeling Fresh as well, but I wasn't sure where I'd ever be able to wear that bright of a colour.

I also tried out the two darker lipsticks, Sail La Vie - a bright orange - and Red Racer - a bright midtoned red.  I fell in love instantly with the red colour.  It's a true, intense red that is very classic and wearable.  The orange shade was beautiful too, and very on-trend for summer, but it was too warm for my skin tone, especially with the orange toned lipglass over top (I believe it was called Rivera Life).

The last thing I bought was the Suntints SPF20 Liquid Lip Balm in Au Rose.  I bought this without trying it on because I loved the slight peachy tint and the fact that it has SPF20.  After trying it when I got home, I have to say that it's a pretty sticky lipgloss with very little colour payoff.  In fact it's pretty much sheer, although it has a nice level of shine.  It's also got a bit of a strange taste, so if that bothers you, I wouldn't suggest it.  I'm sure I'll continue to wear this one, though, as I don't have any other lipglosses with SPF.

From Left: Jaunty eyeshadow, Nautical Navy eyeshadow, Red Racer lipstick, Au Rose Suntints

From Left: Jaunty eyeshadow, Nautical Navy eyeshadow, Red Racer lipstick, Au Rose Suntints

Unfortunately, the eyeshadows don't appear very pigmented in the swatches, but the blue is actually very lovely.  I'm seriously considering going back to get the green colour based on how much I like the navy.

I will point out one product that I had been really excited for, but was actually disappointing in person.  The highlight powder looked amazing online.  It's a combination of pink, peach and purple with white base in the photo, and based on the fact that it's marketed as a highlight, I expected it to have some shimmer to it.  When I tried it in person, however, it was quite chalky and actually appeared more like a heavy, matte blush.  Needless to say, I didn't end up purchasing this one.

Highlight Powder in Crew

So those are my first round of purchases from this line, and overall I'm very pleased!  Have you purchased any of the new MAC line?  Let me know what your favourites are!

Review: Real Techniques Makeup Brushes

Hello everyone!  Today, I will be doing a review of one of my latest beauty purchases - the Real Techniques makeup brushes.  I was in the market for some new makeup brushes, in particular a flat-ended brush for foundation, but I couldn't justify spending $50+ on one from MAC or Sephora.  I know, MAC brushes are supposedly fabulous, but my budget just doesn't stretch quite that far.  But I had heard about Real Techniques brushes while watching makeup tutorials on YouTube, primarily from a few of the British beauty vloggers.  I hadn't heard of the brand before, and had never seen it in stores, but I decided to do a quick Google search to see what I could find.  And, surprise surprise, I found out that you can't actually buy them in Canada.  At least not at any of the stores that I knew were in my area.  Luckily, Amazon came to the rescue, as it so often does for me, and the best part was that the brushes were incredibly affordable!  I ordered two sets of brushes, 9 in total, and even with shipping from the US, it was under $60!  So I more or less got 9 brushes for the price of one MAC brush.  Hard to beat that!

So now on to what brushes I purchased.  Most of the Real Techniques brushes come in sets, so I selected the two sets that I thought I would get the most use out of.  First, was the Core Collection, which is mainly for base makeup.  It comes with:

• detailer brush - a small, tapered brush good for concealer
• pointed foundation brush - I actually found this a bit small for foundation, but works nicely for powder highlight on cheekbones
• buffing brush - a great stippling brush for foundation, I use it everytime I put on liquid foundation now!
• contour brush - a nicely domed blush brush which fits perfectly into the hollows of your cheeks for contouring

From left: buffing brush, contour brush, pointed foundation brush, detailer brush

Each set comes in its own hard-sided case, which will be great for travelling.  I got these four brushes for $17.99 US.  So far, I really enjoy the three larger brushes in this set.  I found the detailer brush a bit soft for my concealer, but that could just be my preference.

The second set I bought was the Starter Set, which is for the eyes.  I love the colour of the handles on this set, too, it's a really nice grapey purple.  It includes:

• base shadow brush - good for all over lid colour
• deluxe crease brush - my favourite of this set!  creates a beautiful contour and blends nicely
• accent brush - a short, domed brush, good for highlighting the brow bone
• pixel-point eyeliner brush - I haven't actually tried this one as I haven't worn gel eyeliner recently, but it looks like it would be pretty thick to use as a liner...I guess I'll have to wait and see
• brow brush - stiff angled brush, works well for brows, and as a thicker smudgy liner brush

From left: deluxe crease brush, base shadow brush, brow brush, accent brush, pixel-point eyeliner brush

This set was $17.86 US on Amazon - not quite sure why the $0.13 price difference between the two sets, but I'll take it!  As I mentioned before, the crease brush is amazing and if I had to pick one brush out of all of them as my favourite, it would be a toss up between this one and the buffing brush.  I've used both everyday since I got them.  

Overall, I really enjoy the handles on these brushes.  They're a fun colour and it makes it easy to find the brush I'm looking for amongst my jar of makeup brushes.  They also have a nice rubbery grip on the ends of the handles, which makes for good control when applying.  The bristles are all taklon and 100% synthetic, so they wash really nicely and I haven't yet had any problems with shedding.

In terms of negatives, I can't really think of any.  The quality is amazing for the price, even if I did have to have them shipped to Canada.  I'm considered ordering a few more of the single brushes, which are available on the Real Techniques website, which I will link at the bottom of this post.  Really, the only bad thing I can say is that I couldn't buy them in person in Canada!  If I had been able to see them, I probably would've bought the entire collection right off the bat!  Then again, maybe it's not such a bad thing that I couldn't do that...

Ciao!

Real Techniques website: http://realtechniques.com/

 

If Sgt. Pepper opened a dance club, I'd be all over that!

If you read my previous post, you'll know that I recently attended a bachelorette party - a first for me.  Parts of it were as to be expected.  There was lots of alcohol, jell-o shooters, ridiculous costumes for the bride-to-be and some rather graphic straws that we brought to the bar to drink out of for the whole night.  But what I was not expecting was realizing that I am officially too old for the club scene.  Now, when I told my friends this, they were pretty surprised, since I was always the one trying to convince them to go the clubs instead of a pub a few years ago (largely unsuccessfully, I might add).  So to prove that I have not, in fact, lost what little sense I had, I've created a list of the top 5 reasons I'm too old for the club.

1. I didn't know 90% of the songs they were playing.  And those I did recognize were "throw back" tunes from at least 5 years ago.

This is actually really surprising for me, because I know the words to a ridiculous number of songs (it's true...if I had a super power, that would be it).  And the last time I was at a club, I could at least sing along to half of what they were playing.  But sadly, those days have past.  I guess it's time to accept my fate of pubs with live bands playing covers of '60s songs, because I definitely know all the words to those!

2. The group of people I was with were the only ones wearing heels.

I apparently missed the memo where girls finally came to their senses and started wearing flats to the club.  I don't know how many nights I have walked home in bare feet because my shoes were killing me so much I couldn't take another step.  That's always been part of the club experience for me!  Plus it's usually the only opportunity I get to wear my ridiculous stilettos without getting strange looks from people.  Somehow I don't think 4" platforms would go over well at a pub...although, I could always try to start a trend!

3. I refuse to pay $10 for a drink.

Now, I shouldn't say this is directly related to the bachelorette party.  The bar we went to that night had surprisingly cheap drinks (I think they were $4).  However, I've been to enough clubs in the past to know how much most places charge for drinks, and there is no way I am forking over that much for a shot of something mixed with pop.  I could buy a pair of really nice heels for the amount of money I'd spend on drinks in one night at a club!  Granted, I now have nowhere to wear the shoes...but that's beside the point.

4. On a related note, $30 for cover!?

I'm sorry, but there isn't a bar in Toronto awesome enough for me to pay $30 to get in.  I get mad when I have to pay that to go to a concert!  We actually went to the bar before 11, just so we didn't have to pay the insane cover.  I guess that's how they can afford the cheaper drinks.  And how do all these 20-something students have the money to pay for these places?  When I was that age, I'm pretty sure the only thing I could afford was 2-4s of $1 beer.  Oh Lucky beer, how I miss you...

5. When I'm the oldest single person in the room, it's time to leave.

I don't really consider myself that old (despite finding my first grey hair the other day, but that's all nicely covered with hair dye now).  But, really, when my other single friend and I approached the only group of somewhat-mature-looking guys at the club, and found out they were 25, we knew it was time to go.  I swear, all the single men between the ages of 25 and 30 have a secret club where they all hide out so we can't find them.  If anyone locates said hideout, please let me know where it is!  Maybe there's a secret handshake or something that I don't know about...

So anyways, there you go!  My top 5 reasons why I don't plan on voluntarily going to a club again anytime soon (exceptions, of course, being for pre-organized parties in which I have had no part in planning).  Side note for all of my friends - if you are planning on having your birthday at a club, I may come down with a mysterious illness.  *Cough*.

Hope everyone is enjoying their Monday!  Ciao!

Makeup and Clothing Haul

Happy Monday, everyone!  I don't normally enjoy Mondays, but as I am currently working a Tuesday-Saturday work week, Mondays are actually more like Sundays.  Plus, I spent the day shopping, so that can make any day awesome!

First, as promised, I have photos of my new Essie polishes!  I still love them as much as I did last week, and I've actually gotten several days of wear out of the first one I tried.

From Left: Lapiz of Luxury, Navigate Her, Like To Be Bad, Who Is The Boss, Lilacism

The colours came out quite intense in the photos, but they are slightly more muted.  I've been wearing Who Is The Boss since last Wednesday and it's stayed on quite well.  It's starting to chip on the ends, so I'll probably change it tonight, but I thought I'd post a picture anyways so you can what it looks like on.

The colour in this one is alot more accurate.  I think it's so pretty!

So, on to today's purchases.  I'll continue with the makeup theme.  I went into MAC today, but at a different location than I normally shop.  I've been loving their new Tres Cheek blush collection, and I saw Immortal Flower online and had been dying to try it.  It's a lovely light peachy colour that has been sold out online for ages, and was actually sold out at my usual location as well when I went to try it last week.  But, I found it today!  And it is as gorgeous as it looked online!  The swatch on the website actually looked a bit darker than it did in person, so I was slightly skeptical when I went to try it on.  But it was beautiful on my skin.  It added just a nice amount of colour and will be perfect for spring.

MAC Powder Blush in Immortal Flower (satin finish)

I also decided to try a few lipsticks while I was at the store.  Now, I've been a lipgloss junkie since I started wearing makeup.  I love the sheer colour and high shine you get from a gloss.  But lately I've been trying to transition myself to lipsticks.  I just think the intense colour you get from a lipstick is so beautiful, and definitely more grown-up than the shiny gloss I typically wear.  I've also been loving coral for this season, so I thought I'd seen what MAC had to offer in that shade.  Not surprisingly, they had about a million different versions of coral in every finish imagineable, but I narrowed it down to four that were worth trying.  And, I ended up with See Sheer, which is a Lustre shade (my personal favourite at the moment because they are so moisturizing and feel lovely on your lips).  I quite like it, and it's not too intense, so it should be very wearable for every day use.  It's actually more pink than coral, but still a very nice colour.

 MAC Lipstick in See Sheer (Lustre)

And my last makeup product for today is Body Shop Born Lippy Pomegranate Lip Balm.  I've used their lip balms before, but I've never tried one in a stick form.  Plus it's pomegranate flavoured, so I had to see what it was like!  It's quite sheer, but has a very slight pinky-brown tint.  And it does have a light pomegranate scent to it, but the taste is a lot stronger, and really delicious!  It's also very creamy on the lips, so hopefully it's as moisturizing as it's supposed to be.

Body Shop Born Lippy Pomegranate Lip Balm

I did a quick swatch of all three of these products so that you can see how they translate onto the skin.  Just in case you're wondering, I'm very pale and have slight pink undertones to my skin.

From Left: See Sheer lipstick, Immortal Flower blush, Pomegranate lip balm

Alright!  On to clothing!  I only bought three actual pieces of clothing today, which anyone who knows me will tell you is nothing for me.  I have a slight shopping addiction...  The first store I went into was Zara, which I actually haven't bought anything in in quite a long time.  Their new collections are pretty nice though.  I got two tops there, a turquoise ombre sweater that is a super light-weight knit that will be great for the summer up at the cottage, and an off-white and black striped jersey t-shirt with 3/4 sleeves.  I've been looking everywhere for the perfect striped top, and I think this may actually be it!  It's a great loose, flowy shape, without being shapeless, and it's long enough to wear with leggings.  It's also got a cute seam down the middle of the back that gives it a bit of character.

Zara Ombre sweater, $39.90

Zara striped jersey t-shirt, $25.90

The reason I actually went shopping today was to get a dress for a bachelorette party I'm attending this weekend.  I haven't had much of a chance to go out since moving to Toronto, so I'm excited to check out a new restaurant and club.  But I knew I didn't really have anything appropriate for that type of party, especially when we're getting VIP service at the club.  (Honestly I don't even really know what that means!)  I must've gone into every store in the mall today without finding a single thing worth trying on, but out of sheer desperation, I decided to check out Mendocino.  I've never purchased anything there before today, as I find them rather expensive for the quality of clothing.  But, they had a massive sale rack of dresses which I spent a few minutes digging through.  And lo and behold, I found an adorable dress and it was HUGELY on sale!!!!  From the front, it looks cute but not terribly exciting.  But the back is super fun!

Mendocino navy and turquoise dress, $129, on sale for $59!!!!

(the belt is mine from before...I think H&M?)

And the back... :)

Of course, I needed shoes to go with it...  I went to Le Chateau in hopes of finding some less expensive ones, as I wasn't sure how often I'd actually be wearing this dress.  And I found a gorgeous pair of nude pumps with bright orange heels that I thought would match perfectly with the orange belt.  Unfortunately they were $165.  And no matter how much I saved on the dress, I couldn't justify spending that much on shoes.  Sigh...

But I did find some adorable t-strap wedge sandals that will be equally cute, and probably significantly more comfortable!

Le Chateau T-strap sandals, $69

Whew, that was a long post!  Hopefully I didn't bore you to death.  I'd love for people to comment on anything I bought!  If I get a chance, I'll take some pictures of my outfit this weekend so you can see how the dress and shoes look together.

Oh, and I bought a new loofah.  I know, that totally made reading this entire post worth it!

Ciao!