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!

Day 25 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 25:

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 Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Pink!
Too Faced The New Romantic Makeup Collection Palette
Urban Decay Midnight Cowboy Rides Again
Tarte SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner in Smoke
Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush in Natural
Laura Geller Bronze & Brighten in Regular
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne
Elf Mineral Lip Gloss in Pageant Princess

Paying It Forward

I claimed another Pay It Forward from a forum friend.  Here's what I'm offering for someone else's enjoyment!

Back Row: 

Three Dermasel Spa Facial Masks 12 ml each, brand new

(Originally, these came from a Swiss friend of mine.

The writing on the packaging is in German, but I wrote basic instructions in English on back.)

Middle Row, left to right:

NARS Orgasm Illuminator .29 oz., used 2x

Serge Lutens Nuit de Cellophane fragrance, plenty left to try

Everyday Minerals Light Pink Lucent Powder, 5.5g, gently used

Everyday Minerals Summertime Face Bronzer, 5.5g, gently used

Front Row, left to right:

Everyday Minerals Bundled Up Pearl Eye Color, 2.5g, gently used

Darling Girl Dandelion Dust, GWP, brand new

Everyday Minerals I'm Keeping Your CDs Shimmer Eye Color, 2.5g, gently used

UPDATE: Yahoo! Somebody claimed it!  Hope they enjoy everything!

Freebie Lip Products

Back Row:

Mineralogics Pecan/Berry

Mineralogics Rum Raisin

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!

Day 24 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 24: Must have been in an Elf-y mood today...

Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain
Elf Studio Under Eye Concealer & Highlighter in Light/Glow
Elf Tone Correcting Powder
Elf Eyelid Primer in Nude
Tarte TEN Eyeshadow Palette
Eyeko Line and Shine Duo Colour Pencil For Eyes in Popstar (teal side for liner)
Milani Minerals Blush in Luminous
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Elf Studio Blush in Gotta Glow
Elf Glow Pout Perfecter
Elf Mineral Lip Gloss in Pageant Princess

Day 23 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 23:
(One week to go!)

Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in Birthday Suit
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Oatmeal
NYX Trio in Guru
Maybelline Master Drama by Eyestudio in Midnight Master
Jouer Powder Blush in Peach Bouquet
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Rose
Bobbi Brown Lipgloss in Buff

Day 22 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 22:

Laura Geller Spackle Tinted Under Makeup Primer in Bronze
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
Elf Studio Beauty School 32-piece Eyeshadow Palette Vol. 2 Bright
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Metallic Grey
Sephora Colorful Mono in Chrome No 05
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Morphine
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Midnight
Elf Studio Blush in Pink Passion
Elf Studio Blush in Gotta Glow
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder

Week 3 Collection Update

Ten days to go!  Below is my updated collection list.  Lots of items are now designated as "Keepers," which means that I've used them a minimum of three times over the 30-day Challenge.  That's a good sign.

My goal this coming week is to add to my list of things that I'd like to get rid of.  Lots of these products I will attempt to swap or sell, but some will, I'm afraid, find their way into the garbage.  You can read about my thoughts on some of the items that are on their way out here.  On my list, any items in pink are products I'm LOVING, and any products in green are products about which I'm UNDECIDED.  Products in blue are products that I need to USE!

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!"
NEW! (17 Oct.) Laura Geller Spackle Tinted Under Makeup Primer in Bronze 20, 21

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:
NEW! (18 Oct.) Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in Birthday Suit 19
NEW! (18 Oct.) 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
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Sand Dollar 8, 15, 20 "Keeper!"
Eyeko Line and Shine Duo Colour Pencil For Eyes in Popstar 17
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Golden Green 16
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Metallic Grey
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Dolphin! 21
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Pink! 18
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Platinum! 15
NEW! (20 Oct.) Mac Wisteria Eyeshadow 21
Milani Marbleized Baked Eyeshadow in Mix It Up 15
Milani Runway Eyes Fashion Shadows in Glamorous Gems 14, 21
NYX Trio in Guru 5, 9, 20 "Keeper!"
NEW! (18 Oct.) Sephora Colorful Mono in Chrome No 05
Tarte TEN Eyeshadow Palette 4, 7
Too Faced Matte Eyeshadow Collection 3, 17
Too Faced The New Romantic Makeup Collection Palette 8, 18
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
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Morphine

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

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Sin 1, 2, 11 "Keeper!"
Urban Decay Midnight Cowboy Rides Again 9, 11
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

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
Milani Color Brilliance Eye Pencil in 02 Aqua 11
Shiseido Automatic Fine Eyeliner in Brown 20
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:
NEW! (18 Oct.) Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Plum Poppy 19, 20
Elf Studio Blush in Pink Passion 7, 11, 18 "Keeper!"
Jouer Powder Blush in Peach Bouquet 3, 10
Laura Geller Blush & Brighten in Apricot Berry 1, 8, 12 "Keeper!"
Milani Minerals Blush in Luminous 5, 13
Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush in Natural 14, 21
Tarte Amazonian Clay Long-Wear Blush in Blissful 6, 17

Bronzers:
Elf Essential Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder 7, 11, 13 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder 2, 4, 7 "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:
NEW! (18 Oct.) Bobbi Brown Lipgloss in Buff 19, 20
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 21 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 21:

Laura Geller Spackle Tinted Under Makeup Primer in Bronze
Everyday Minerals base in Ivory
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Dolphin!
Mac Wisteria Eyeshadow
Milani Runway Eyes Fashion Shadows in Glamorous Gems
Gosh Velvet Touch Eyeliner in Green Boost-tried it, not sure about how to use it best...
Shiseido Eyeliner Pencil in Black
Physician's Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush in Natural
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne

Day 20 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 20:

Laura Geller Spackle Tinted Under Makeup Primer in Bronze
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory
Everyday minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
Benefit Silky Color Eyeshadow in Guess Again
NYX Trio in Guru
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Sand Dollar
Shiseido Automatic Fine Eyeliner in Brown
Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Plum Poppy
Elf Essential Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Elf Glow Pout Perfecter

Day 19 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 19:

Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in Birthday Suit
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Delinquent
Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Plum Poppy
Bobbi Brown Lipgloss in Buff

A Mauve-elous Haul!

I decided a good way to try out some new brands would be purchasing some products from a lovely forum friend of mine.  She was very generous in pricing, and even threw in a freebie!  Plus, it traveled many, many miles to make its way into my hands.  I am calling it a "mauve-elous" haul because many of the items I chose are kind of mauve in color.  Here's what I got:

Bobbi Brown Lipgloss in Buff (unused!)

Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Plum Poppy

Benefit Silky Color Eyeshadow in Guess Again

Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in Birthday Suit

Freebie!: Sephora Colorful Mono in Chrome No 05

So, welcome to my collection!  Looking forward to trying many of you out tomorrow!

And thanks so much to another forum friend, feeding my passion for trying new things!

Birchbox: The Verdict

You can read my previous analysis of my Birchbox experience here.

A quick update on some of my previous concerns/complaints:

1. Slow delivery to the West Coast:  August's box was definitely the slowest, arriving on the 27th.  September and October arrived on the 17th of each month, which isn't bad in comparison.  However, many other Birchboxers get their boxes on or before the 10th.  I don't have a problem waiting until the 17th, but anything beyond that, I feel, is getting a bit ridiculous.

2. The average value of my boxes: This has ranged from $20-40 dollars approximately.  In September, it was only valued at $17.  That's a little low comparatively.  Here's the approximate values of my boxes since January:

January: $29.80

February: $37.25

March: $29.46

April: $24.04

May: $20.38

June: $42.94* 

July: $20.46

August: $30.56

September: $17.01

October: $26.84

*(This included a full-size Laura Geller Blush & Brighten, definitely the all-time best product in any Birchbox to date.)

3. Lack of Variety: This month makes four AHAVA samples in my 10-month history with Birchbox.  Below is a picture of them and their various sizes.  The first three were all creams/lotions.  The fourth was a cream cleanser.  With the variety of products and brands that are given out, it's a little disappointing to receive the same brand, similar products four times.  The other concern is the decreasing size of them.

(left to right)

January: Ahava Dermud Intensive Nourishing Hand Cream 1.3 fl. oz.

May: Ahava Mineral Body Lotion 1.3 fl. oz. 

September: Ahava Mineral Hand Cream 0.3 fl. oz. 

October: Ahava Rich Cleansing Cream 0.68 fl. oz. 

Again, I love the brand.  I dislike the lack of variety and the shrinking size of the sample.

4. Value: The website promises 4-5 deluxe-sized samples every month.  I guess it depends on your definition of "deluxe," but I would have to consider it smaller than a full-size product, but larger than the freebies you can get at cosmetic stores (like tiny fragrance samples in glass tubes or foil packets of a single-use size).  Below is how many "deluxe" samples were in each box, according to my own judgement.

January: 4

February: 4

March: 4

April: 3

May: 3

June: 4

July: 4

August: 3

September: 2-3

October: 4

Never once did I feel like 5 deluxe samples made it in, and sometimes there's no way I would even say 4.  Again, this is somewhat subjective, but I did not count single-use foil pakets or perfume samples because they are given as freebies at many cosmetic retailers.

Here's the rundown of my October box and a photo.

Ahava Rich Cleansing Cream, .68 fl. oz., $6.00 value

Befine Lip Exfoliator, .5 fl. oz., $12.50 value

Laura Geller Spackle Tinted Under Makeup Primer in Bronze, .5 fl. oz., $6.25 value

Orofluido Beauty Elixir, .17 fl. oz., $1.50 value

The Laundress Delicate Wash Laundry Soap, .5 fl. oz., $0.59 value

Total Value: $26.84 (a fairly good value)

Finally, here's the verdict:

I joined Birchbox to get deluxe size samples of high-end makeup brands.  I'm not as interested in high-end skin care (super spendy), and I'm certainly not interested in laundry soap, which was a sample included in my October box, or seedy paper or a greeting card which had come in previous boxes.  Out of the 52 items I received in total, only 7 were beauty/makeup items, 3 of which were mascara samples.  The bottom-line is that I'm in the wrong program if what I'm looking for is deluxe makeup samples.

So, Birchbox, it's been a lovely experience with some highs and lows, but all of the above are my reasons that I'm feeling forced to say, "Goodbye!"

Now I just have to figure out what to buy with my remaining $10 credit on their website!  Any suggestions?

Day 18 -- FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 18:

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 Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Pink!
Elf Studio Beauty School 32-Piece Eyeshadow Palette Vo. 2 Bright
Too Faced The New Romantic Makeup Collection Palette
It Cosmetics H2O Eyes Waterproof Eye Pencil in Brown
Elf Studio Blush in Pink Passion
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Rose

Day 17 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 17:

Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain
Elf Tone Correcting Powder
Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden
Elf Eyelid Primer in Nude
Eyeko Lin and Shine Duo Colour Pencil for Eyes in Popstar
Too Faced Matte Eyeshadow Collection
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Midnight
Tarte Amazonian Clay Long-Wear Blush in Blissful
Elf Essential Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Burt's Bees Super Shiny Natural Lip Gloss in Sweet Pink

Half Way There -- Saying Goodbye!

I think the mid-point of this challenge is a good time to begin removing things from my stash with which I am unimpressed.  As things make their way onto the lists below, I'll be removing them from my collection list.  So, hopefully my Week 3 Update (coming October 21) will reveal a smaller stash!  I'd also like to share some items about which I am on the fence.  Hope you enjoy!

On the Fence:

Things that make me go "Hmm..."

Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden: I'm unsure if this is the right color for me, and I'm thinking that the first few times I tried it I used too much product.  Time will tell...
Smashbox Eyeliner Pencil in Green: This is a fairly light color, and I'm not sure how soft and creamy the pencil is.  More experimentation is necessary...
Shiseido Eyeliner Pencil in Black: Same concern -- the texture.  We will see...  I just don't have patience for hard pencils that rip apart my eyelids.

Into the Garbage You Go:

Things that make me go "Ugh!"

L'oreal Infallible Eyeliner in Carbon Black: Stop burning my eyes!  I was on the fence on this product before my 30-day Challenge, and the last couple times I've used this my suspicions have been confirmed.  It's not as creamy as it once was, and it does irritate my eyes slightly.

Swapping/Selling:

Things that make me go "I'd rather have..."

Jouer Eye Definer in Gris: This is a lovely eyeliner pencil, but I prefer darker shades.
Jouer Creme Shadow in Cashmere: Again, a lovely product, but I'm not much for creme shadows in general.  It's such a beautiful color.
Jouer Highlighter in Champagne: Yet again, Jouer makes lovely products, but I much prefer a powder highlighter.
Nars Orgasm Illuminator: Lots of folks love this; just haven't used this more than once or twice.

Freebies:

Things that make me go "Maybe someone else would enjoy this!"

Bath & Body Works Liplicious Tasty Lip Color in Cherry Gelato
Elf Candy Shop Lip Gloss in Coconut Crazed
(All following items are lipsticks)
Elf Barely Bitten
Elf Pouty Petal
Elf Rustic Brick
Mineralogics Rum Raisin
Mineralogics Pecan/Berry
NYX Christie
Ulta Lip Color in Glamour Goddess
(All "Freebies" will make their way into the garbage at the end of the 30-day Challenge if no one wants them.)

Day 16 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 16:

Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain
Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden
Elf Tone Correcting Powder
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
Elf Studio Beauty School 32-Piece Eyeshadow Palette Vol. 2 Bright
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Oatmeal
Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Golden Green
Tarte SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner in Smoke
Laura Geller Blush & Brighten in Apricot Berry
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne
Burt's Bees Super Shiny Natural Lip Gloss in Sweet Pink

Day 15 - Half Way There! FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 15:

Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory
Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Sand Dollar
Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Platinum!
Milani Marbleized Baked Eyeshadow in Mix It Up LOVE THIS!
Maybelline Master Drama by Eyestudio in Midnight Master
Elf Studio Contouring Bush & Bronzing Powder
Elf Studio Blush in Gotta Glow

Week 2 Collection Update

It's now two weeks into my 30-day Challenge, and I'm lovin' it.  It's fun to see what I do and don't use and figure out what I do and don't love.  During the past week, my collection has grown some and also shrunk some.  So, I think that's a good thing.  My whole goal is to hold on to things I love and toss things I don't.  You can see my original collection here, and my new additions here, here, or here.

I've decided the new items that are in my collection will be held to the same October 30 deadline.  I want to see myself use them by then or lose them!  Even though some have joined me just yesterday, I don't want to extend my 30-day challenge beyond October 30 just to give myself time to use them.  Besides, even if I only use something once, I can still choose to keep it if I love it.  Likewise, if something is designated as a "Keeper" on my list, there's no rule that I have to keep it if I love something else better.

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!"

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!"
NEW! (7 Oct.) 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:
Elf Studio Beauty School 32-Piece Eyeshadow Palette Vol. 2 Bright 10
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Oatmeal 5
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Sand Dollar 8
NEW! (13 Oct.) Eyeko Line and Shine Duo Colour Pencil For Eyes in Popstar
NEW! (13 Oct.) Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Golden Green
NEW! (13 Oct.) Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Metallic Grey
NEW! (13 Oct.) Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Dolphin!
NEW! (13 Oct.) Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Pink!
NEW! (13 Oct.) Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Platinum!
Jouer Creme Shadow in Cashmere attempting to Swap/Sell
NEW! (13 Oct.) Milani Marbleized Baked Eyeshadow in Mix It Up
NEW! (13 Oct.) Milani Runway Eyes Fashion Shadows in Glamorous Gems 14
NYX Trio in Guru 5, 9
Tarte TEN Eyeshadow Palette 4, 7
Too Faced Matte Eyeshadow Collection 3
Too Faced The New Romantic Makeup Collection Palette 8
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Clash 9
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Delinquent 6

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Juju 6, 12
NEW! (13 Oct.) Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Morphine

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

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Sin 1, 2, 11 "Keeper!"
NEW! (7 Oct.) Urban Decay Midnight Cowboy Rides Again 9, 11
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

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Plum 3, 13

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Stardust 6, 12

Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Teal 5
NEW! (13 Oct.) Gosh Velvet Touch Eyeliner in Green Boost
NEW! (13 Oct.) It Cosmetics H2O Eyes Waterproof Eye Pencil in Brown
Jouer Eye Definer in Gris attempting to Swap/Sell
L'oreal Infallible Eyeliner in Carbon Black 6, 12
NEW! (13 Oct.) Maybelline Master Drama by Eyestudio in Midnight Master
Milani Color Brilliance Eye Pencil in 02 Aqua 11
NEW! (13 Oct.) Shiseido Automatic Fine Eyeliner in Brown
NEW! (13 Oct.) Shiseido Eyeliner Pencil in Black
NEW! (13 Oct.) Smashbox Eyeliner Pencil in Green (labeled "Smashing Black")
NEW! (7 Oct.) Tarte SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner in Smoke 7, 10

Blushes:
Elf Studio Blush in Pink Passion 7, 11
Jouer Powder Blush in Peach Bouquet 3, 10
Laura Geller Blush & Brighten in Apricot Berry 1, 8, 12 "Keeper!"
Milani Minerals Blush in Luminous 5, 13
NEW! (13 Oct.) Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush in Natural 14
Tarte Amazonian Clay Long-Wear Blush in Blissful 6

Bronzers:
Elf Essential Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder 7, 11, 13 "Keeper!"
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder 2, 4, 7 "Keeper!"

Highlighters:
Elf Studio Blush in Gotta Glow 2, 5, 8 "Keeper!"
Jouer Highlighter in Champagne attempting to Swap/Sell
Nars Orgasm Illuminator attempting to Swap/Sell
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne 4, 10, 12 "Keeper!"
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Rose 3, 6, 9 "Keeper!"

Lip Gloss:
Bath & Body Works Liplicious Tasty Lip Color in Cherry Gelato attempting to Swap/Sell as a freebie
Bath & Body Works Liplicious Tasty Lip Color in Whipped Vanilla GONE!
Burt's Bees Super Shiny Natural Lip Gloss in Sweet Pink 6
Burt's Bees Super Shiny Natural Lip Gloss in Zesty Red GONE!
Elf Candy Shop Lip Gloss in Coconut Crazed attempting to Swap/Sell as a freebie
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!"

Lipstick: (All lipsticks I am currently attempting to Swap/Sell as freebies)
Elf Barely Bitten
Elf Pouty Petal
Elf Rustic Brick
Mineralogics Rum Raisin
Mineralogics Pecan/Berry
NYX Christie
Ulta Lip Color in Glamour Goddess

Day 14 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 14:

Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain
Elf Tone Correcting Powder
Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
Milani Runway Eyes Fashion Shadows in Glamorous Gems
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Forest Green
Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush in Natural
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Elf Essential Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder

A Friendly Haul

Recently I purchased a number of items form a friend of mine on a makeup forum.  The package showed up yesterday, so I wanted to take some pictures before adding it all into my collection.  Most of the stuff seems very gently used, and I'm excited to try out some new products as well, especially from brands that are unfamiliar to me.

Oh my GOSH!  

GOSH is not a brand with which I am familiar, but I purchased six products from her.  

Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Golden Green

Gosh Mono Eyeshadow in Metallic Grey

Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Pink!

Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Dolphin!

Gosh Waterproof Eyeshadow in Love That Platinum!

Gosh Velvet Touch Eyeliner in Green Boost (pictured below)

I then received a couple of brown and black eyeliners to try out.

Maybelline Master Drama by Eyestudio in Midnight Master

It Cosmetics H2O Eyes Waterproof Eye Pencil in Brown

Shiseido Automatic Fine Eyeliner in Brown

Shiseido Eyeliner Pencil in Black

Quite a selection.  I'm excited to see which ones perform well.

A few more shadow pencils and eyeliners in other colors were part of the haul, too.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Morphine

Eyeko Line and Shine Duo Colour Pencil For Eyes in Popstar

(Electric Blue and Teal)

Smashbox Eyeliner Pencil in Smashing Black

(The color of the pencil is actually green as you can see.)

Gosh Velvet Touch Eyeliner in Green Boost

Finally, a couple other shadows and a blush from some drugstore brands

Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush in Natural

Milani Runway Eyes Fashion Shadows in Glamorous Gems

Milani Marbleized Baked Eyeshadow in Mix It Up

So, all of these products are now officially welcomed into my collection.  This also means they are welcomed into my 30-day Challenge, "Use It or Lose It."  I now have 30 days to determine how many of them will be "Keepers!" and how many of them will find a different fate.

Any tips, tricks or thoughts on these new additions to my collection?

Which products would you like to see me review?

Day 13 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 13:

Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory,
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Eyelid Primer in Nude
Vincent Longo Trio in Premiere Dream
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Plum
Milani Minerals Blush in Luminous
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Elf Essential Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder
Elf Glow Pout Perfecter

Day 12 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 12:

Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain
Elf Studio Under Eye Concealer & Highlighter in Light/Glow
Elf Tone Correcting Powder
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Juju
L'oreal Infallible Eyeliner in Carbon Black
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Stardust
Laura Geller Blush & Brighten in Apricot Berry
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne

Day 11 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 11:

Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Sin and Rehab
Urban Decay Midnight Cowboy Rides Again
Milani Color Brilliance Eye Pencil in 02 Aqua
Elf Studio Blush in Pink Passion
Elf Essential Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder

Day 10 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 10:

Tarte  Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Illuminating Serum
Everyday Minerals Base in Ivory
Everyday Minerals Aussie Perk Me Up Concealer
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
Elf Studio Beauty School 32-Piece Eyeshadow Palette Vol. 2 Bright
Jouer Powder Blush in Peach Bouquet
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne
Elf Mineral Lip Gloss in Pageant Princess

Day 9 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 9:

Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain
Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden
Elf Tone Correcting Powder
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
NYX Trio in Guru
Urban Decay 24/7 Shadow Pencil in Clash
Urban Decay Midnight Cowboy Rides Again
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Cobalt Blue
Elf Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
Tarte Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Rose

To Be or Not To Be?: Birchbox

I've been subscribed to Birchbox since January.  For the most part, I've been pleased.  However, the last two months did not live up to my expectations.

1. August's box didn't show up for me until August 27th.  This I found slightly infuriating.  YouTube was full of other Birchboxer's videos on their boxes within the first week or so of the month, but I was told to just wait, since I live on the West Coast.  Really?!

2. On average, the value of items in my Birchboxes have ranged from $20-$40.  I don't expect that this would always be consistent.  However, my September box was only worth $9.46.  (EDIT: I did my math wrong.  It had a value of $17.01.  Still considerably lower than the rest.)  That was a big blow.

3. In my September box, I received my third sample of Ahava lotion.  True, each sample was slightly different from the previous, but two creams and a lotion from the same brand is getting a little repetitive.  Fortunately, I love the brand.  Unfortunately, the sample size was only a whopping .3 oz.  The other two Ahava samples I had received in past months were 1.3 oz. That's a huge drop (77%) in size.

4. In general, I feel the sample sizes have been slipping.  Less and less would I classify them as "deluxe." More and more they are looking like the freebies you can get at Sephora or Ulta.  The website promises "4-5 deluxe samples each month."

Can you sense my dissatisfaction?

So, my October box is on it's way.  I was notified that I was shipped on October 6, and I'm interested to see when it arrives and what's in it.

October's box will answer the question: Is Birchbox to be or not to be in my life anymore?

Day 8 - FOTD

Here's what I wore from my stash on Day 8:

Elf Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 in Porcelain
Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden
Elf Tone Correcting Powder
Elf Eyelid Primer in Pearl
Too Faced The New Romantic Make-Up Collection
Elf Studio Eyeshadow Single in Sand Dollar
Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Coffee
Laura Geller Blush & Brighten in Apricot Berry
Elf Studio Blush in Gotta Glow
Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Mirage

Clinique, Urban Decay, and More (Pay It Forward)

On my favorite makeup forum, theres a thread called "Pay It Forward."  I love it.  The idea is that one person posts an offer of beauty products they no longer want.  Another person claims it.  The one who claims it then has to post a new offer of beauty products they no longer want.  The cycle continues from there.  It's a great way to try "new-to-me" stuff for free and pass on other stuff to someone who will appreciate it.  One lady's trash is another lady's treasure.  Here's the lastest "Pay It Forward" I claimed and received in the mail today.

Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in Light Golden and 

Urban Decay Midnight Cowboy Rides Again.

These two products I will adopt into my collection and give myself 

30 days to "Use 'Em or Lose 'Em."

Darling Girl Cosmetics Hollywood, New Beginnings, and Dandelion Dust; 

Silk Naturals Faith and Tamale; 

Bare Minerals Good Fortune; 

(a small selection of loose pigments in sample baggies, not pictured)

These products I will attempt to Swap/Sell probably as freebies to share the love.  

I'm not much for loose pigments anymore.

Lastly, my "forum friend" included three homemade lip balms that look gorgeous!

I can't wait to try them out.  I'm impressed!

Can't give first impressions on these products yet since I haven't been able to use them, but people aren't joking about Urban Decay's Midnight Cowboy Rides Again when they say it is sparkly and full of fall-out.

Has anyone found a way to use Midnight Cowboy Rides Again?  I'll have to be creative.  And how about Clinique All About Eyes Concealer?  Thoughts?

DIY: The Too Faced New Romantic Make-Up Collection, Remodeled

A month or two ago, I received the Too Faced New Romantic Make-Up Collection in a swap from another "forum friend."  I was very excited.  I've enjoyed the three eyeshadows and the blush in the palette, but I've had one big complaint.

I strongly dislike when companies mix in lip glosses with powdered products.  Talk about nasty-looking contamination!  There's always powdered bits of makeup making their way into the sticky glosses, and I can't bring myself to use them looking that way.  Besides, since this was a used palette, I felt somewhat hesitant to use the lip products anyway.

So, after thinking and considering what to do, I decided I would look into a magnetized palette in which to put the eyeshadows and blush.  Lip glosses: "Bye-bye."

The cheapest palette I could find was Elf's Elements palette, which had two drawbacks.  It was not magnetized, and it was set up for round products, not rectangular.

I fixed that by removing the circular guides and supergluing the metal sheet to the bottom of the palette.  I then began dismantling the Too Faced palette and preparing the powder products to be magnetized.

Using a knife to loosen the top cardboard layer from the base.

Success!  All the products were accessible...

Blush Fail!  I learned the hard way that the putty knife was a better tool for the job.

Into the garbage with the blush... Sad day...

Practicing removal of the products by messing with the glosses first -- Bye-bye!

And, success!  Three eyeshadows saved!

Preparing the adhesive magnetic sheets for the back of the shadows.

Project in progress...

I dug the blush back out of the garbage.  

I use it as an eyeshadow anyways, and it's a beautiful color.  

Although a bit less pretty than it once was, it's salvagable, I think.

Finished product.

Overall success.

My goal was two-fold with this project:

1. Promote creativity. CHECK!

2. End up with a smaller, space-saving palette. CHECK!

Not so bad for my first attempt!

What DIY projects have you done lately involving your makeup collection?

Tarte for Tarte: SmolderEyes Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner in Smoke

Welcome to the family, Smoke!

I just had a wonderful swap with a "forum friend." I sent her Tarte's EmphasEYES Inner Rim Brightener and Burt's Bees Super Shiny Natural Lipgloss in Zesty Red.  She sent me a gently-used Elf Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder as a backup for the one I already own as well as Tarte's SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner in Smoke.  So, it was a "Tarte for Tarte" swap, so to speak.  She also kindly included a pencil sharpener that works quite well for the size of the SmolderEYES pencil.  How generous!

Elf Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder, 

Tarte SmolderEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eyeliner in Smoke, & 

Jumbo Pencil Sharpener

Smoke, swatched

First Impressions: I used Smoke today after a fresh sharpening to simply line my eyes. The texture was very smooth and I love the color.  It's a dark metallic grey.  I wore kind of a light grey smokey eye with it and a true pink blush on my cheeks.  I won't be surprised if this turns into a "Keeper" in my collection well within my 30 day challenge!

Have you tried any of the SmolderEYES pencils from Tarte?  How about the Elf Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder?