$15 off $50 Sephora Haul with Swatches!

Isn't hauling fun? And it's always made sweeter with a discount.  A friend of mine shared her $15 off $50 deal with me, and here's what I got:

Philosophy Vanilla Birthday Cake Lip Shine

Oscar Blandi Proteine di Jasmine Protein Mist for Restyling

Benefit Cosmetics Legally Bronze Collection

3 FREE Samples, see below

Philosophy Vanilla Birthday Cake Lip Shine

First Impressions: This is a good sized product, and it should be for $10. Is it worth the price? So far, it smells lovely, so that's a plus. But the formula is super-duper sticky; I'm unsure how I feel about that. DH says it tastes sugary. :o)

Oscar Blandi Proteine di Jasmine Mist for Restyling Hair

First Impressions: I haven't used this yet, but I took a whiff. I was hoping this would smell like the Oscar Blandi Olio di Jasmine Hair Serum, which smells absolutely awesome if you like jasmine. Sadly, this spray doesn't have the same fragrance. I have yet to try it out though... Would you like a thorough review?

Benefit Cosmetics Legally Bronze Collection

First Impressions: I bought this kit because every item in here is full-size or near full-size. Some of Benefit's kits seem to lack in the size department. Not the case with this set. The bag the collection comes in isn't half bad, but it will likely not replace any of my other travel makeup bags.

Lovely!

Benefit Cosmetics BADgal Brown Mascara

First Impressions: I love the packaging. Again, I haven't tried this yet as I just unboxed it today. I love the packaging.

The brush is nothing spectacular, and the formula seemed dry when I swatched it, but time will tell. I am excited to have this because I've never owned a brown mascara! Did I mention I love the packaging? That slender, tall tube with the metallic pink writing is so pretty!

Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Bronzing Powder

First Impressions: The color seems lovely and matte. The texture is quite smooth. I like the box that the product comes in a lot. The brush is super cute, but it's already found it's way into my garbage can. Just for practical reasons, I'll use the makeup brushes I have. This product here is the whole reason I bought the collection!

Benefit Cosmetics High Beam Luminescent Complexion Enhancer

First Impressions: This looks like a nail polish! It is a lovely pearly pink color and blends out well (see swatch below).

Benefit Cosmetics Gilded Tangerine Gold Highlighter

First Impressions: This is a lovely light copper/bronze color. The pencil is soft and I'm excited to give this a try. It claims to be a highlighting product that can be used on the brow bones or the lips. I think it's gorgeous!

The Swatches (L-R):

Gilded, High Beam, Hoola, and BADgal Brown Mascara

3 FREE Samples:

Betsey Johnson Too Too Eau de Parfum

Amika Oil Treatment

Sephora Collection Perfecting Cover Foundation in Ivory

What do you think of my haul? Did you take advantage of the $15 off $50 offer?  Would you like to see any reviews?

20 Dec 2011 Jesus Time

Word

Passage from the Bible:
John 7:37-39 "On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, 'If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, "Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."' Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified."

Passage in my own words:
On the final day of the feast, Jesus stood up and said that if anyone was thirsty, he should come to him and drink.  He said that whoever believed in him as the Scriptures described would have rivers of living water flowing out of his heart.  He was talking about the Holy Spirit.  Those that chose to believe in him would be receiving the Holy Spirit later.  The Holy Spirit hadn't been given yet because Jesus had not finished his time on the earth.

How I will obey this:
I want to cultivate that idea of having rivers of living water flowing out of my heart!

What I learned about God that I can share:
His Spirit has now been given to us.

Reflection

How I am doing today:
Good.  Busy, but good.

What recent things drew me closer to God:
Again, taking even a few minutes to be in his Word.

What recent things pushed me further from God:
My attitude toward certain people who are close to me.  I don't feel compassionate or patient.

What I am learning:
I need to focus on having that living water flowing out of my heart.  Not just to those who need to know Jesus, but even those who are close to me and already know him.  I should not be a brat! :o)

Prayer

What I hear God saying:
"I have given you my Spirit, so you have those things--compassion and patience--in the form of living water in your heart.  Let it flow.  But it takes work and commitment and effort.  Dont be lazy.  Be intentional."

People or issues I am praying for:
My attitude: compassion and patience.

Answers to past prayers:
We have yet another lovely place to live for the next number of weeks before we return overseas.  God has been more than faithful by providing not just a roof over our heads, but a wonderful roof over our heads!

19 Dec 2011 Jesus Time

Word

Passage from the Bible:
John 6:66-69 "After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. So Jesus said to the Twelve, "Do you want to go away as well?" Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God."

Passage in my own words:
Many people who had followed Jesus for a time left him and no longer continued walking with him.  When this happened, Jesus asked his twelve disciples if they wanted to leave him too.  Simon Peter told Jesus that there was no one else that he would choose to be with because Jesus spoke of more than the temporary life.  He spoke of eternal life.  Simon Peter said that all of them recognized and understood that Jesus was the Holy One of God.

How I will obey this:
I will choose Jesus and try to discern the things of eternal value over those of temporal value.

What I learned about God that I can share:
Jesus is okay when people choose not to follow him.  He always gives us a choice.

Reflection

How I am doing today:
Good.  We have a move coming up, so it's a busy day.

What recent things drew me closer to God:
Kai McQueen's CD, "This Shimmering Blue." I especially like the song, "Arise, My Soul, Arise"

What I am learning:
God doesn't push himself on me.  He loves when I search after him.

Prayer

What I hear God saying:
"I love you and am glad when you come to me."

Arise, My Soul, Arise

words by Charles Wesley

music by Kai McQueen

Arise, my soul, arise

Shake off thy guilty fears

The bleeding sacrifice

On my behalf appears

Before the throne

My surety stands

My name is written on his hands

My name is written on his hands

He ever lives above

For me to intercede

His all redeeming love

His precious blood to plead

His blood atoned for all our race

And sprinkles now the throne of grace

And sprinkles now the throne of grace

Five bleeding wounds he bears

Received on Calvary

They pour effectual prayers

They strongly speak for me

"Forgive him, oh forgive!" they cry

"Nor let that ransomed sinner die,

Nor let that ransomed sinner die!"

The Father hears him pray

His dear anointed one

He cannot turn away

The presence of His Son

His Spirit answers to the blood

And tells me I am born of God

And tells me I am born of God

My God is reconciled

His pardoning voice I hear

He owns me for His child

I can no longer fear

With confidence I now draw nigh 

And "Father, Abba Father!" cry

And "Father, Abba Father!" cry

3 Revlon Lip Butters, 2 Turtle Doves, and a Partridge in a Pear Tree

Disclaimer: Broke the cardinal rule again. Played with and used the products prior to photographing. I'll get better, I promise!

I know, I know everyone has reviewed/raved/hauled the "new" Revlon Lip Butters. I totally gave into the peer pressure and grabbed one for myself, too. Well, I grabbed one, and then I grabbed two more.

I own them in Berry Smoothie (050), Sugar Frosting (005), and Creme Brulee (09). These are definitely three colors that I would recommend to just about anyone. It's a nice berry color, a light wearable pink, and a lovely nude. You can't go wrong adding these three to your stash.

I feel like everyone has already said all the good things there are to say about these little dandies, and I have zero complaints.

I totally agree that the handy window is super cool, too. You can get a clear view of the color!

So, I can't really add anything to the exceptional reviews these little guys have gotten thusfar in the makeup world. I guess I just wanted to share that I have them in my family.

Any specific questions about these lovelies? Let me know!  

What colors do you own? Do I need more? (haha)

18 Dec 2011 Jesus Time

Word

Passage from the Bible:
John 2:1-5 "On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples.  When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, "They have no wine." And Jesus said to her, "Woman what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come." His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you."

Passage in my own words: 
Jesus' mom was at a wedding, and Jesus and his disciples were invited too.  During the party, they ran out of wine, and Mary went to Jesus her son and told him that the wine was gone.  (To quote Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean, "But why is the rum wine gone?!") Jesus replied, "How does this involve me? It's not my time." Mary then told the servants at the party to do whatever her son told them.

How I will obey this:
Listen to Jesus and submit to whatever he might (or might not) have planned for me (or others).

What I learned about God that I can share:
His plans are good.  It's notable that the outcome of this interaction with his mother brought about not only Jesus' first miracle, but apparently some pretty awesome wine!  His miracle was not just ho-hum.

Reflection

How I am doing today:
Tired. Looking forward to having some rest.

What recent things drew me closer to God:
This practice of just looking at a few verses is currently a fun thing. (I'm only on my second day, but...) I noticed yesterday that I was prepared to speak about what I had learned and heard from God, albeit just to my dear husband.

What I am learning:
God is.  God is.  I just feel like apparently he's all powerful, and good, and ultimate.  I need to submit to what he has for me.  This kind of submission goes above and beyond what I could want or desire.  It drives me to get to know God better.

Prayer

What I hear God saying:
"Pray and listen.  Notice that I didn't scold Mary for asking really.  I simply pointed out that it wasn't yet my time. I want you to ask, but then I want you to listen and watch for what good things I have coming up.  Be ready to then do whatever I ask of you."


People or issues I am praying for:
Renewing of my mind.  Lord, help me have fresh, enthusiastic thinking about the things you have asked of me.  What lies ahead will not be just a glass of ho-hum wine.

Answers to past prayers:
I enjoyed the Word yesterday.  It's been a long time.

Everyday Minerals Brush Haul

I'm new at makeup blogging, so I apologize for breaking a cardinal rule of makeup blogging: Never play with products before you take their picture!  I'll do better.  Sorry my brushes look used--they are!

So, Everyday Minerals was having a sale on their brushes not too long ago.  By far, this brand sells some of my favorite makeup brushes ever.  They are very soft.  Their bristles are good quality.  I never struggle with them falling apart or shedding.  It's easy to wash them and maintain them.  Not only were they on sale, but when I added five to my cart, off came another 25% of my total!  So, here they are:

Top to Bottom:

Blender Face Brush (I don't see this one anymore on the website!)

Eye Kabuki Brush

Dome Blending Eye Brush

Eye Blending Brush

Eye Kabuki Junior (I don't see this one anymore either!)

Their brushes are just so darn affordable, too!  My favorite of all time is their Everyday Eyeshadow Brush, but I don't see that one on the website either.  Humph!

What about you?  What are your favorite good quality yet affordable brushes?  Have you tried any of these?  Would you like a detailed review of any of them?

17 Dec 2011 Jesus Time

Word

Passage from the Bible:
John 1:1-5 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."

Passage in my own words:
The Word existed from the very beginning and was with God and was God. Everything was made through the Word and God.  Any thing that was made was not created without him.  There was life and light in God and the Word.  That light presently shines so brightly that it wins out over darkness.

How I will obey this:
Acknowledge God as creator, the source of life and light.

What I learned about God that I can share:
It seems like God has several "parts" in him, or several attributes. He is creator, he is the Word, he is light and life itself. He must be very powerful to have created all things. He seems to be very ultimate, so to speak. Nothing exists without him. His light is so bright that darkness cannot be stronger.

Reflection

How I am doing today:
Okay.  I'm trying to prepare for once again following God in the calling he's given us.  I guess this points out the obvious: I feel as though I've been unfaithful in it, or at least somewhat distracted.

What recent things drew me closer to God:
A recent body of believers committed to partnering with us in multiple ways: financial, prayer, community, etc.

What recent things pushed me further from God:
Recovery from childbirth took its toll over the last month-ish.  With all the emotions it was at times hard to be sure what God was saying.

What I am learning:
God is faithful.  God loves me.

Prayer

What I hear God saying:
"You need my light in your life.  If you have it, the darkness can't win."

EOTD/FOTD - 17 December 2011

Eyes: 

Urban Decay Primer Potion

Tarte TEN Eyeshadow Palette:

shimmery violet, lid

matte black, outer corner, crease

e.l.f. eyeshadow in sand dollar, highlight

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on Pencil in Delinquent, liner

Revitalash Mascara

 Face:

Laura Geller Spackle Primer, bronze

Neutrogena Healthy Skin, ivory

Laura Geller Balance-n-Brighten, medium

Tarte Bronzer, park ave princess

e.l.f. All Over Color Sticks:

pink lemonade, blush

spotlight, highlight
Lips:
Revlon Lip Butter, creme brulee
Stila Lip Glaze, kitten

Stocking Stuffers for Her!

Here's my stocking stuffers for the ladies in my life:

Now, I totally believe in giving credit where credit is due.  I have emilynoel83 on YouTube to thank for this idea.  You can watch her video below (this idea is at 3:15) and see all the fantastic stocking stuffers she came up with!

So these are simply some ELF makeup items that I stacked together. Honestly I think Emily's look better than mine, and part of that is because instead of buying the eyeliner, which would have been the smallest box on the top of the stack, I bought an eyeshadow. I figured that the people I was buying for would use eyeshadow more than eyeliner. BUT I didn't consider that my hasty decision meant that the middle and top boxes would be the same size. To make it less obvious, I actually made my first stack with the boxes turned and twisted a little. I like the effect.

These were inexpensive and simple to make.  I used a little sticky puddy to hold the products to one another while I tied some holiday ribbon around them.  I'm pretty excited, and I hope the recipients enjoy the makeup as much as I enjoyed the process!

What are your stocking stuffer or DIY projects this holiday season?  Share them with me!

EOTD - 16 December 2011

My first EOTD ever!

Buxom's Waterproof Stay-There Eyeshadows:

Sheepdog - highlight, inner corner

Whippet - inner half of the lid 

Mutt - outer half of the lid, crease

Pug - outer corner

Tarte SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner in Smoke

Revitalash Mascara

Meg's Makeup

So, now that I'm not a Birchboxer anymore, I've become even more of a sold-out Meg's Makeup fan.  It's a totally different program, but I've enjoyed being a part of it.

Here's how it works:

Meg's Makeup is basically a blog. As you comment and rate blog posts, you gain points. As you gain points, you can turn them in for rewards up to once each month. At 50 points, 150 points, or 250 points, you can request to redeem your points. You pay a fee for shipping and handling, and Meg sends you several brand new full-size products to try! You can go months between packages if you like, or you can religiously redeem points every single month.

In the past I've enjoyed receiving full-size products such as those listed below:

From Tarte:
Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Amazonian Clay Long-Wear Blush in Blissful
Amazonian Clay Long-Wear Blush in Natural Beauty
Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne
Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Rose
Lipsurgence Natural Lip Stain in Enchanted
SmolderEYES pencil in Charcoal

From Too Faced:
Matte Eyeshadow Collection

From Urban Decay:
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil Stash
Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 in Bodyguard
Eyeshadow in Stalker

From Nailtini:
Mini Bar Collection of four nail polishes
Club Soda Fizz Nail Whitening Soak

From Revitalash:
Mascara

From Napoleon Perdis:
Luminous Lip Veil in Sugar Plum
Eye Pencil in Gold Standard

Here was my most recent Meg's reward:

Napoleon Perdis Luminous Lip Veil in Opal ($20)

Tarte Amazonian Clay Long-Wear Blush in Flush ($25)

Tarte Lipsurgence Natural Lip Stain in Amused ($24)

Tarte emphasEyes pencil in Navy ($25)

The total retail value of this reward was $94, and I paid $12 for shipping and handling. Now, that's a sweet deal! If you want to join Meg's Makeup, click the pink boxy button in the upper righthand corner of my blog! I get ten points if you accept an invitation from me!

Are any of you Meg Heads?  Do you love getting free stuff as much as I do?

Items I'm Swapping/Selling

We’re moving on the 20th, and again within the year.  Trying to shrink my stash!

$5 shipping, or free shipping if you buy $15 or more

US only unless we make special arrangements

$3 each:

Elf Studio Beauty School 32-Piece Eyeshadow Palette Vol. 2 Bright

Burt’s Bees Radiance Lip Shimmer, BN, sealed

Burt’s Bees Thoroughly Therapeutic Honey & Grapeseed Oil Hand Creme, gently used, 2.6 oz

Laura Geller 2-sided Eyeshadow Brush/Sponge Applicator, came in a kit, BN

EDM Like Lady Bird Lake, BN, sealed, 1.7g (MINI size)

$6 each:

Tarte SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liner in Violet, swatched

Tarte SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liner in Black, used 1-2 times

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on Shadow Pencil in Delinquent, BN

1 for $15, 2 for $25, or 3 for $30:

Jouer Highlighter in Champagne, swatched

Jouer Creme Shadow in Cashmere, swatched

Jouer Eye Definer in Gris, swatched

Napoleon Perdis Eye Pencil in Gold Standard, swatched

********ALL ITEMS BELOW ARE FREE********

*if you pay $5 shipping or if you purchase any item(s) from the list above!*

(If you want more items than fit in a Birchbox-sized box, 

you may have to pay a little more than $5 for shipping.)

Hair Freebies:

John Frieda Full Repair Full Body Shampoo and Conditioner, .28 fl oz each

TRESemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner, .33 fl oz each

Garnier Fructis Fortifying Shampoo and Conditioner, .34 fl oz each

Bamboo Shine Luminous Shine Shampoo and Conditioner, .25 fl oz each

Fragrance Freebies: (all tested only once)

Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau De Toilette .05 fl oz

Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy .05 fl oz

Marc Jacobs DAISY .04 fl oz

DKNY Golden Delicious .05 fl oz

Dolce & Gabbana The One .06 fl oz

Makeup Freebies:

Urban Decay Tinted Moisturizer in Halo, Bodyguard, and Bulletproof samples

EDM Matte Base Samples in Toffee, Sandy Medium, Buttered Tan, Olive Medium, and Tan .005 oz each

Ulta Lip Color in Glamour Goddess, gently used

Mineralogics Lip Color in Pecan/Berry, gently used

TheBalm Stainiac in Beauty Queen, .024 fl oz

Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in 02 light golden, .33 fl oz, gently used

SN Mousse, gently used, 50%+ remains

SN Prowl GWP, gently used, 50%+ remains

EDM Autumn Afternoon, gently used, 50%+ remains

Per-fekt Brow Perfection Gel in Caramel, .01 fl oz, BN, opened and looked at it

GOSH Velvet Touch Eyeliner in 004 Green Boost, gently used

GOSH Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Dolphin!, Love That Pink!, and Love That Platinum!, gently used

Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain, 50%+ remains, .88 fl oz

Maybelline Eyeshadow Trio in Berriful

NYX Eyeshadow Trio in Guru

Eyeko Line and Shine Duo Color Pencil for Eyes in “For Popstar Eyes”

Elf Essential Bronzer in Luminance (more of a highlight really)

Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow & Mood Boosting Blush in Natural

Skincare Freebies:

L’Oreal Paris Skin Expertise Day/Night Cream Youth Code, .03 fl oz

Earthen InstantPeel, 1 single-use packet

Murad Correcting Moisturizer SPF 15, .03 fl oz

Blistex Complete Moisturizer Lip Protectant/Sunscreen, BN

Miscellaneous Freebies:

Etude House Nail Art silver/iridescent nail decals, BN

Jumbo Pencil Sharpener, came with Tarte SmolderEYES pencils

Elf Makeup Remover Cleansing Cloths, 20-pack, 15 remain, still very moist

Boscia Green Tea Blotting Linens, BN, 25 sheets

Final Collection Update -- Day 30

Here's the final collection update.

Numbers indicate on which day of the 30-day challenge I used the item.  (October 1 = Day 1; October 2 = Day 2; etc.) Once I use something three times, I'm going to label it a "keeper" meaning I no longer will keep track of what days I use it on.  I can still decide to toss it though if another product beats it out!

Foundations:
Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain 1, 2, 4 "Keeper!"
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory 3, 5, 7 "Keeper!"
Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum 3, 5, 7 "Keeper!"
Laura Geller Spackle Tinted Under Makeup Primer in Bronze 20, 21, 22 "Keeper!"

Concealers:
Elf Studio Under Eye Concealer & Highlighter in Light/Glow 1, 2, 4 "Keeper!"
Elf Tone Correcting Powder 2, 4, 6 "Keeper!"
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer 3, 5, 7 "Keeper!"
Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden 8, 9, 14 "Keeper!"

Eye Primer:
Elf Eyelid Primer in Nude 3, 7, 12 "Keeper!"
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl 4, 5, 8 "Keeper!"

Eye Shadow:
Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in Birthday Suit 19, 23, 30 "Keeper!"
Benefit Silky Color Eyeshadow in Guess Again 20
Elf Studio Beauty School 32-Piece Eyeshadow Palette Vol. 2 Bright 10, 16, 18 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Oatmeal 5, 16, 23 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Sand Dollar 8, 15, 20 "Keeper!"
Eyeko Line and Shine Duo Colour Pencil For Eyes in Popstar 17, 24
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Golden Green 16, 28
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Metallic Grey 22, 29
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Dolphin! 21
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Pink! 18, 25
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Platinum! 15, 29
Mac Wisteria Eyeshadow 21, 29
Milani Marbleized Baked Eyeshadow in Mix It Up 15, 28, 29
Milani Runway Eyes Fashion Shadows in Glamorous Gems 14, 21
NYX Trio in Guru 5, 9, 20 "Keeper!"
Sephora Colorful Mono in Chrome No 05 22
Tarte TEN Eyeshadow Palette 4, 7, 24 "Keeper!"
Too Faced Matte Eyeshadow Collection 3, 17, 27 "Keeper!"
Too Faced The New Romantic Makeup Collection Palette 8, 18, 25 "Keeper!"
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Clash 9
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Delinquent 6, 19

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Juju 6, 12, 26 "Keeper!"
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Morphine 22

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Rehab 11, 26

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Sin 1, 2, 11 "Keeper!"
Urban Decay Midnight Cowboy Rides Again 9, 11, 25 "Keeper!"
Vincent Longo Trio in Premiere Dream 6, 13

Eyeliner:
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Black 1
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Cobalt Blue 9

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Coffee 8

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Forest Green 2, 14, 30 "Keeper!"

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Midnight 4, 17, 22 "Keeper!"

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Plum 3, 13

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Stardust 6, 12

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Teal 5
Gosh Velvet Touch Eyeliner in Green Boost 21
It Cosmetics H2O Eyes Waterproof Eye Pencil in Brown 18
Maybelline Master Drama by Eyestudio in Midnight Master 15, 23, 28 "Keeper!"
Milani Color Brilliance Eye Pencil in 02 Aqua 11
Shiseido Automatic Fine Eyeliner in Brown 20, 27
Shiseido Eyeliner Pencil in Black 21, 29
Tarte SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner in Smoke 7, 10, 16 "Keeper!"

Blushes:
Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Plum Poppy 19, 20, 27 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Blush in Pink Passion 7, 11, 18 "Keeper!"
Jouer Powder Blush in Peach Bouquet 3, 10, 23 "Keeper!"
Laura Geller Blush & Brighten in Apricot Berry 1, 8, 12 "Keeper!"
Milani Minerals Blush in Luminous 5, 13, 24 "Keeper!"
Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush in Natural 14, 21, 25 "Keeper!"
Tarte Amazonian Clay Long-Wear Blush in Blissful 6, 17, 28 "Keeper!"

Bronzers:
Elf Essential Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder 7, 11, 13 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder 2, 4, 7 "Keeper!"
NEW! (25 Oct.) Laura Geller Bronze & Brighten in Medium 25, 26, 28 "Keeper!"

Highlighters:
Elf Studio Blush in Gotta Glow 2, 5, 8 "Keeper!"
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne 4, 10, 12 "Keeper!"
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Rose 3, 6, 9 "Keeper!"

Lip Gloss:
Bobbi Brown Lipgloss in Buff 19, 20, 23 "Keeper!"
Burt's Bees Super Shiny Natural Lip Gloss in Sweet Pink 6, 16, 17 "Keeper!"
Elf Glow Pout Perfecter 2, 7, 12 "Keeper!"
Elf Mineral Lip Gloss in Pageant Princess 1, 10. 14 "Keeper!"
Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Mirage 2, 5, 8 "Keeper!"

Day 30 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 30:

Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porecelain
Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Elf Sudio Under Eye Concealer & Highlighter in Light/Glow
Elf Tone Correcting Powder
Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in Birthday Suit
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Oatmeal
NYX Trio in Guru
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Forest Green
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Tarte Amazonian clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne

Paying It Forward Again

As I continue to work through my collection, here's what I'm offering:

Back Row: 

Blow Up Thickening Mist 2 fl. oz. *brand new*

Ahava Cleansing Cream .68 fl. oz. *brand new*

Front Row:

Everyday Minerals Vintage Denim 2.5 g gently used

Everyday Minerals French Films 2.5 g gently used

Everyday Minerals Sand Cherry 5.5 g gently used

Darling Girl "Hollywood" GWP sealed

Silk Naturals Faith sealed

Plus, any of the unclaimed lip items pictured below:

Back Row:

Mineralogics Pecan/Berry

Mineralogics Rum Raisin Claimed!

Elf Barely Bitten Claimed!

Elf Pouty Petal Claimed!

Elf Rustic Brick Claimed!

NYX Christie

Ulta Glamour Goddess

Front Row:

Bath & Body Works Liplicious Tasty Lip Color in Cherry Gelato Claimed!

Elf Candy Shop Lip Gloss in Coconut Crazed Claimed!

And, Smashbox Eyeliner Pencil, seen in the picture below, second from the front.

It is labeled Smashing Black, but is actually a lime green color, and it does have a cap, not pictured.

UPDATE: Somebody claimed it!  Hope they love everything!

Day 29 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 29:

Tarte Smoot Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Everyday Minerals base in Ivory
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Sand Dollar
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Metallic Grey
Gosh Wterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Platinum!
Mac Wisteria Eyeshadow
Milani Marbleized Baked Eyeshadow in Mix It Up
Shiseido Eyeliner Pencil in Black
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Laura Geller Bronze & Brighten in Medium
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Rose

Week 4 Collection Update

Only 2 more days to go.  Here's the update on how I have been using my collection:

Numbers indicate on which day of the 30-day challenge I used the item.  (October 1 = Day 1; October 2 = Day 2; etc.) Once I use something three times, I'm going to label it a "keeper" meaning I no longer will keep track of what days I use it on.  I can still decide to toss it though if another product beats it out!

Foundations:
Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain 1, 2, 4 "Keeper!"
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory 3, 5, 7 "Keeper!"
Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum 3, 5, 7 "Keeper!"
Laura Geller Spackle Tinted Under Makeup Primer in Bronze 20, 21, 22 "Keeper!"

Concealers:
Elf Studio Under Eye Concealer & Highlighter in Light/Glow 1, 2, 4 "Keeper!"
Elf Tone Correcting Powder 2, 4, 6 "Keeper!"
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer 3, 5, 7 "Keeper!"
Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden 8, 9, 14 "Keeper!"

Eye Primer:
Elf Eyelid Primer in Nude 3, 7, 12 "Keeper!"
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl 4, 5, 8 "Keeper!"

Eye Shadow:
Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in Birthday Suit 19, 23
Benefit Silky Color Eyeshadow in Guess Again 20
Elf Studio Beauty School 32-Piece Eyeshadow Palette Vol. 2 Bright 10, 16, 18 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Oatmeal 5, 16, 23 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Sand Dollar 8, 15, 20 "Keeper!"
Eyeko Line and Shine Duo Colour Pencil For Eyes in Popstar 17, 24
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Golden Green 16, 28
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Metallic Grey 22
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Dolphin! 21
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Pink! 18, 25
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Platinum! 15
Mac Wisteria Eyeshadow 21
Milani Marbleized Baked Eyeshadow in Mix It Up 15, 28
Milani Runway Eyes Fashion Shadows in Glamorous Gems 14, 21
NYX Trio in Guru 5, 9, 20 "Keeper!"
Sephora Colorful Mono in Chrome No 05 22
Tarte TEN Eyeshadow Palette 4, 7, 24 "Keeper!"
Too Faced Matte Eyeshadow Collection 3, 17, 27 "Keeper!"
Too Faced The New Romantic Makeup Collection Palette 8, 18, 25 "Keeper!"
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Clash 9
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Delinquent 6, 19

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Juju 6, 12, 26 "Keeper!"
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Morphine 22

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Rehab 11, 26

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Sin 1, 2, 11 "Keeper!"
Urban Decay Midnight Cowboy Rides Again 9, 11, 25 "Keeper!"
Vincent Longo Trio in Premiere Dream 6, 13

Eyeliner:
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Black 1
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Cobalt Blue 9

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Coffee 8

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Forest Green 2, 14

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Midnight 4, 17, 22 "Keeper!"

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Plum 3, 13

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Stardust 6, 12

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Teal 5
Gosh Velvet Touch Eyeliner in Green Boost 21
It Cosmetics H2O Eyes Waterproof Eye Pencil in Brown 18
Maybelline Master Drama by Eyestudio in Midnight Master 15, 23, 28 "Keeper!"
Milani Color Brilliance Eye Pencil in 02 Aqua 11
Shiseido Automatic Fine Eyeliner in Brown 20, 27
Shiseido Eyeliner Pencil in Black 21
Smashbox Eyeliner Pencil in Green (labeled "Smashing Black")
Tarte SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner in Smoke 7, 10, 16 "Keeper!"

Blushes:
Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Plum Poppy 19, 20, 27 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Blush in Pink Passion 7, 11, 18 "Keeper!"
Jouer Powder Blush in Peach Bouquet 3, 10, 23 "Keeper!"
Laura Geller Blush & Brighten in Apricot Berry 1, 8, 12 "Keeper!"
Milani Minerals Blush in Luminous 5, 13, 24 "Keeper!"
Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush in Natural 14, 21, 25 "Keeper!"
Tarte Amazonian Clay Long-Wear Blush in Blissful 6, 17, 28 "Keeper!"

Bronzers:
Elf Essential Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder 7, 11, 13 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder 2, 4, 7 "Keeper!"
NEW! (25 Oct.) Laura Geller Bronze & Brighten in Medium 25, 26, 28 "Keeper!"

Highlighters:
Elf Studio Blush in Gotta Glow 2, 5, 8 "Keeper!"
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne 4, 10, 12 "Keeper!"
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Rose 3, 6, 9 "Keeper!"

Lip Gloss:
Bobbi Brown Lipgloss in Buff 19, 20, 23 "Keeper!"
Burt's Bees Super Shiny Natural Lip Gloss in Sweet Pink 6, 16, 17 "Keeper!"
Elf Glow Pout Perfecter 2, 7, 12 "Keeper!"
Elf Mineral Lip Gloss in Pageant Princess 1, 10. 14 "Keeper!"
Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Mirage 2, 5, 8 "Keeper!"

Day 28 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 28:

Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Golden Green
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Oatmeal
Milani Marbleized Baked Eyeshadow in Mix It Up
Maybelline Master Drama by Eyestudio in Midnight Master
Tarte Amazonian Clay Long-Wear Blush in Blissful
Laura Geller Bronze & Brighten in Medium
Elf Studio Blush in Gotta Glow
Elf Mineral Lip Gloss in Pageant Princess

Day 27 -- FOTD

THREE DAYS TO GO!
Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 27:

Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain
Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden
Elf Tone Correcting Powder
Elf Eyelid Primer in Nude
Too Faced Matte Eyeshadow Collection
Shiseido Automatic Fine Eyeliner in Brown
Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Plum Poppy
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne

Day 26 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 26:

Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Sand Dollar
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencils in Juju, Rehab, and Sin
Laura Geller Bronze & Brighten in Medium
Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Mirage

Please Welcome Laura Geller's Bronze & Brighten in Medium

A friend of mine on the makeup forum offered to send me this deluxe sample size (1.8 g) of Laura Geller's Bronze & Brighten in Medium for just $5 including shipping.  She wasn't using it, and I waas super curious about the color.

I've been eying the Bronze & Brighten in Fair and still may purchase the full size (9 g).  I think it would work better for an all-over glow on my fair skin.

That said, Medium is a beautiful, shimmery, glowy, bronze color, and I'm excited to have it in my collection.  Today I contoured with it using a light hand.  I think it would also work as a brownish blush or even an eyeshadow.

Want a more detailed review?  Have any questions?  Just ask!

What's your favorite Laura Geller product?

Santa Came Early!

On the makeup forum, there's a Secret Santa Christmas gift swap going on, and I was the lucky first recipient of a gift!

It showed up in the mail today, beautifully wrapped and accessorized!

All the little packages had cute Christmas decorations attached to them.

This adorable snowman card and ornament were included as well.

This fuzzy trio of warm sockies was in the first package I opened.

Then, I was excited to see Elf's Beauty Eye Manual, Natural Eye Edition.

It's a lovely, generous selection of neutral eyeshadows, an eye pencil, and applicator.

Next, a small box contained this treasure.  Silver danglies! LOVE!

I wonder if my Secret Santa handmade them...

A really fun travel makeup bag was included, too.

It came complete with a lovely silver compact mirror inside!

I've always wanted to try one of these Ecotools brush sets.

I love the natural look to them, and the travel bag is handy, too!

The grand finale gift in my package was this 4-pack of receiving blankets.

My Secret Santa did her homework, and she knows we're expecting our second child.

The best part is that these are gender-neutral, too, 

since we don't know if we're having a girl or a boy!

THANK YOU SECRET SANTA! AND MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU TOO!