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For the first time in my life, I’m going to live outside of the DFW area which is an area that I LOVE and I’ve racked up the most epic support system of family and friends but lately I’ve been itching for some new scenery and Denver has been on my shortlist of places to live since I visited with my husband (then boyfriend) in 2006.

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Scott and I in Breckenridge, CO in 2006 when we decided we’d retire there one day.

This move is an answered prayer for a variety of reasons and just happens to jive really well with a project that I’ve been planning for close to a year now–a blog about family adventure/travel/playing. We are really looking forward to living in a travel destination and skiing a LOT and I can’t wait to document this whole adventure.

Now that I’ve gotten that off my chest, I do plan to blog as much as I can, I’ve just been consumed/excited about this move and unable to focus on much else.

Here’s to the Rocky Mountain Rowekamps!  It’s going to be an exciting summer.

A man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act. ~Mahatma Gandhi

About those fancy frocks…..here are ours (in case you haven’t seen me in awhile, I got new hair).

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dress c/o Langford Market | necklace – Charming Charlie | sandals c/o fibi & clo | moonstone bracelet – Rock Barrell

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I forgot to ask my husband exactly what he’s wearing, but it’s likely Charles Tyrwhitt and Brooks Brothers.

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Baby boy is wearing a handed down Carter’s button down shirt with Janie and Jack shorts, a Target bow-tie, and burlap tiny TOMS* in the bimini style {New TOMS Coupon Code $5 Off $25 purchase TOMSSPRING5*}.

Oldest boy is wearing Target tie/shirt/pants, Gap belt, and H&M sneakers.

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*affiliate links – Thank you for supporting CharmedValerie.com!

Last week before I headed out of town on a girl’s weekend, I took my boys out for dinner at BJ’s Restaurants. I needed a break from cooking dinner and washing dishes so that I could really be present and savor my moments with my dudes (along with some really, really yummy food).

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Scrumptious. Who wouldn’t want to savor that???

Everyone knows that the best things in life can be shared.  My husband and I shared BJ’s Restaurants latest Party For Two offer.

Party For Two is a promotion that is available at all neighborhood BJ’s Restaurants from 3/18/13-4/29/13 and includes the following for $19.95:

• Choice of two soups OR salads
• Any MEDIUM BJ’s Restaurants Signature Pizza
• BJ’s Restaurants Famous Pizookie dessert

Here’s what we got…

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That’s a Caesar Salad (for him), Tuscan Tomato Bisque (for me–it was off the chain and my favorite part of the whole meal…which is saying a. lot.), a Mediterranean Pizza, and a Red Velvet Pizookie.

While I never normally order tomato bisque (because it usually tastes too much like acid reflux to me), I had hunch about this one–and I SO GLAD I DID. It was deliciously tomato-y, flavorful, savory, and I had to restrain myself from licking the bowl. The pizza had all my favorite stuff–grilled chicken, basil pesto, roasted garlic, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese and sliced peperoncinis.  And, the Red Velvet Pizookie was exquisite–it’s a miracle that I even managed to photograph it before devouring it.

When I saw that they brew their own handcrafted soda in-house, I had to try them. I rarely drink soda because of gnarly ingredients but BJ’s Restaurants soda is made with beet sugar instead of HFCS.

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I tried the Black Cherry and Cream Soda.

Cheers!

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This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group™ and BJ’s Restaurants but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #Bjsrestaurants http://cmp.ly/3/8vNxcO

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You’re invited to join the world’s leading health experts from Hungry For Change in a free online event starting March 21 – 31st including:

• The Full Length Hungry For Change Film
• Exclusive Take Action Videos
• Incredible Detox Recipes
• DVD giveaways and
• Live Q&A

To secure your spot for this event all you have to do is register your name and email so that they can send you all the links to each of the videos as they go live.

Register here for free to secure your spot.

Hungry For Change Trailer – Free Worldwide Online Screening (March 21-31, 2013)

The film is also available to watch on Netflix and Amazon Instant Video.  Hungry For Change film is one that I watch over and over again when I need to get my groove back and they have a very wonderful community of support on facebook and other social media sites.  This powerful documentary means a lot to me and I know you’re gonna love it too.

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THE DETAILS

Price: $16.50

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Thank you to Jane Iredale for sending me PureLash Lash Extender and Conditioner to help me detox my makeup bag.

My Makeup Bag Detox is an effort to rid my makeup, beauty, and personal care products of harmful ingredients–one product at a time.  I plan to consciously shop, research, feature/review products that work harmoniously with our bodies and the environment.  For more information and previous posts click here.

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The first outfit is just a casual daily look (complete with a sneaky toddler hiding behind me). It’s a pretty common everyday outfit formula for me.

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Necklace – Charming Charlie | ruffle cardigan – LOFT | thermal shirt – Charlotte Russe | Jeggings – Gap | boots – Diba

Leather [looking] leggings are a hot trend this year and it is a great way to add a little bit of an edge to an outfit.  I wore this to a meeting with the producers of D: The Broadcast.

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Cardigan – Old Navy | leopard infinity scarf – H&M | ruffle dress – Target | faux leather leggings – Amazon | boots – KorkEase | handbag – H&M

Florals and denim shirts are both huge trends for Spring 2013.  This is what I wore to Sunday brunch with my husband.

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Floral scarf – H&M | denim shirt – H&M | tank – Gap | khaki skinny pants – H&M | slouchy boots – Jessica Simpson

Here is the outfit I wore for my live television segment on D: The Broadcast (you can see the segment here – if you’re not on a mobile device).  I didn’t realize one of my pant legs rolled down before I snapped this photo (oopsies!).

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Tunic – Target | bubble necklace – Charming Charlie | earrings – Charming Charlie | jeggings – Gap | pumps – Charlotte Russe

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Kollabora.com is a hip resource for stylish crafty tutorials and me, Megan, Linda, and Kirsten will be on hand to show you how to make bracelets and to talk blog shop with you.  The event is open to bloggers, blog readers, and crafty-types.  {RSVP here}.

Below are Joey’s tips, tools, and tricks for inner and outer beauty.  It’s good stuff, I promise.  I’m kicking myself a little for not sharing it sooner.  This was the heart of Beauty Live for me.

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In his talk (posted in video form below) he talks about the two tools that made him successful (you already have them), divulges some celebrity beauty secrets, and dishes how you can exude star power on a daily basis (without retouching).

3:07 is where he talks about how he met Rachel Zoe and does a hilarious impression of her.

Joey Maalouf Celebrity Makeup Tutorial – Tips, Tricks, and Inspiring Advice

If you do what you love and are always yourself, you can do anything.
Don’t fight the insecurity of what you don’t have.  Value what you really do have and make it work for you…
You don’t really need direction, you were born with all of it….It’s all about using everything as a inspiration to build up this person that you want to be.

Good stuff right?!

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For one weekend, the Southwest’s most chic shopping destination will be the epicenter of the beauty industry.  Galleria Dallas celebrates the beauty in every woman as Beauty Live returns to the famed shopping center March 2-3, 2013.  Exclusive to Galleria Dallas, Beauty Live offers a whirlwind weekend of non-stop fun:  celebrity appearances, pro stylists, national makeup artists, makeovers, and giveaways.  Beautiful!  Beauty Live showcases all the top trends in beauty with dozens of events and activities.

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Modlash Brush-On False Eyelash Review and Tutorial Video

ANDREA MODLASH BRUSH-ON ADHESIVE FOR FALSE EYELASHES

$4.99 at drugstore

INGREDIENTS – latex free
Water (Aqua) , Acrylates Copolymer , Alcohol Denat , Dextrin , Tocopherol

PROS
- goes on clear and stays clear
- no waiting for glue to dry
- no mess
- brush allows for precision in application
- no adhesive traces
- can be used on lash strips or individual lashes
- safe ingredients are low level of concern for cosmetic uses according to EWG Skin Deep Database
- affordable

CONS
- burning sensitive eyes
- burn if you get it in your eyes

Ardell makes a similar brush-on eyelash adhesive for false eyelashes that has the exact same ingredients available at Sally Beauty Supply.

MAKEUP TUTORIAL
1. Apply liquid eyeliner to lash line
2. Curl lashes if you like
3. Apply mascara
4. Brush the modlash adhesive along the lash band of the fake eyelash
5. No need to wait for glue to become tacky (yay!)
6. Apply just above lashline, make sure ends stick by pressing them down
7. Push lashes on and down so they are close to lashline (adjust before it dries completely)

After I posted this video yesterday my friend Mickey Gunn, a professional makeup artist, shared a few tips and tricks for an issue she had with the brush-on eyelash adhesive.

The only problem that I did have with it was that it does have a shine to when it dries, so when the light hits your eye, you can see the adhesive. It’s an easy fix though…I just take an angled brush to my mascara wand and then run it along the the adhesive to take away the shine. Also, I’ve used it to glue gemstones to my daughters face for cheer.

Also with prom/wedding/special occassion season on the way, I think that it’s a good idea to take your eyelash adhesive with you in your purse just in case.

Let me know what you think and if you have any questions!

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I love Carole (and her work) because she captures me the way I want to be perceived.  I normally get so stiff/frozen looking in photos but she really helped make me comfortable and enjoy the whole experience of exploring my sensual side.

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I am so passionate about boudoir photos because they can really help improve your relationship with yourself by showing your body in all it’s glory at the most figure flattering angles and poses.

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Boudoir does not just happen in the bedroom, it’s a state of mind and a celebration of everyday beauty (with just a hint of photoshop).

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Boudoir photography can also help you recognize and appreciate your beautiful body at times when you feel your least sexy (like pregnancy).

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Let me know what you thought of the segment and if you’re visiting here because of it “HELLO!” {big smile}.

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I have yet to really feel like a domestic goddess but at least I can fake it ’til I make it with some stylish housewares that’ll help me get the job done.  I found some amazing deals for my latest Ross Dress for Less shopping haul on housekeeping, home organization, and home decor all under $10.

Check it out…

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A few years ago, I picked up a little book with a DVD in it that brought me closer to the awareness that I’ve always sought.  It was The Shift by Wayne Dyer.  Next month, I am so excited to have the opportunity to experience Dr. Dyer and many of my favorite inspirational speakers/authors at Hay House’s I Can Do It! 2013 mind/body/soul retreat in Austin, TX.  Here are a few details about the event just in case you’re in the mood to head to Austin (or not) for an empowering weekend as well…

The soul nourishing seminar is happening the weekend of March 23-24 at Bass Concert Hall in Austin, TX.  Featured speakers are Dr. Wayne W. Dyer, Cheryl Richardson, Doreen Virtue, Brian L. Weiss M.D., Robert Holden Ph.D., Nick Ortner, Nancy Levin, Meggan Watterson, Tim Ryan, Kris Carr, Michael J. Chase, Sarah DeAnna, Alex Woodard, and Joe Dispenza D.C..

I will be heading Austin with 2 girlfriends who attended an I Can Do It! conference in Pasadena in 2012 and they felt like the conference was one of the most energizing and life-changing experiences in their lives.  I’m sure I’ll be sharing my experience here, through social media, and on YouTube (just a heads up).

Let me know if you plan to attend and/or are as a huge a fan of these Hay House authors as I am!

Here’s to flourishing in 2013!

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Making Angry Birds figures with Sculpey polymer clay is a great way to entertain an Angry Birds obsessed child and get your creative juices flowing as well.  It’s a new hobby for my son and I that was inspired by watching EvanTubeHD.

My son has gotten into the family business and plans to vlog now so if you have preschool/elementary age children, please invite them to watch my little Mosely-man (I’m planning a separate family play blog but until then, I’ll post here and to my own channel).

Our collection of Angry Birds polymer clay figures includes: Red Bird, Blue Bird, White Bird, Black Bird, Big Redder Bird, Minion Pig, Black-eyed Mustache Grandpa Pig, Helmet Pig, and King Pig from Angry Birds original game.  Pink Bird and Female Red Bird from Angry Birds Hogs and Kisses.  Orange Bird from Angry Birds Halloween.  Luke Skywalker (plus his light saber) and Princess Leia Birds from Angry Birds Star Wars.  Lazer Bird, Bomb Bird, Lightening Bird, Terrance, and Small Minion Pig from Angry Birds Space. A Nest, Egg Pile, Blue Eggs,  and Scrambled Egg Skillet props.

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Where to buy polymer clay?  We used Sculpey brand polymer clay and bought a few packages from Hobby Lobby.  Hobby Lobby has 40% off coupons online (so does Michael’s craft store most weeks on their iPhone app) and any hobby/arts/crafts stores should sell polymer clay.

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Here’s a video of the ladies telling us what we can expect to see and what hosting the show means to them…

D: The Broadcast airs starting Monday February 18th at 9AM on KTXD-TV

AT&T-DirecTV-Dish 47 | Charter 22 | TWC 24/429 | Verizon 18/518

UPDATE: When I was setting my DVR, the show is titled “D Presents The Broadcast”.

My segment is scheduled for Monday February 25th.

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Old Navy is having a kids + baby {+ maternity} sale and E.V.E.R.Y.THING is on sale!    Cool right?!  Right.  If you are anything like me, you are totally ready to put a little spring in your child’s wardrobe and Old Navy is here to help with up to 40% off their kids/baby/maternity goodies.  I’ll give you the low-down on the sale, my experience, and tips to get your kids styled on a budget.

Sale Details

WHAT: Old Navy Kids & Baby (plus Maternity) Sale

WHY: Your children (and you if you’re pregnant) are constantly growing and it’s best to get them styled at great prices.

WHEN: Thursday, February 7 – Wednesday, February 20

WHERE: Old Navy stores + online

HOW to make the most of it: Decide what they need/want (think holidays, vacations, basics, etc).  If you’re going to the store, pre-shop online to get a good idea of what’s up for grabs.  Make a list.  Shop.

My Experience

I went to the Old Navy store at Galleria Dallas and when Lauren (the lovely Old Navy Sales Associate) asked me how she could help me, I told her that I needed anything/everything Angry Birds that they have in size 5 and size 18-24M.  Lauren hooked me up in a matter of minutes, I grabbed a few other things, and was out the door before my husband (who was at home with the kids) even realized that I made more than one stop on my errands.  Yay.

I got all this for a little over $78.

I plan to pair the graphic tees with cute plaid/camo shorts in the spring and pants + layers until then.  The Dallas Mavericks stuff will look fun[ky] with a pair of yellow converse.  When styling little ones I think it’s best to keep it playful, fun, and help them express their own uniqueness through their clothing.
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective, and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

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silver metal statement necklace via Charming Charlie – similar | green thermal shirt via Charlotte Russe – similar options | gray ruffle cardigan by LOFT via Half of Half – similar | flare leg jeans via Juicy Couture – similar | shoes TOMS Desert Wedges {New February TOMSSPRING5 coupon, $5 off any pucharse of $25 @ TOMS.com}

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Rocco’s sweater is one that was bought via consignment many years ago for his big brother.  You can’t seen it in these pictures but the puppy’s ear flaps up and down in 3D and “WOOF!” is embroidered above the dog.  The elbow patches make it extra adorable.

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Knit mohawk hat via GAP – similar | Puppy sweater via consignment – similar | Carpenter jeans via Target – similar | shoes KEEN Coronado Print Sneaker

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Do you have a simple go-to cardigan/jeans/necklace outfit like I do (if not, I highly recommend)?  Love dressing up your kids as much as I do?  Let me know in the comments.

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Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for charmedvalerie.com.  See Charmed Valerie ’s disclosure statement for more details.

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 I wanted a look that was soft and feminine with a bit of whimsy.  I had a little help courtesy of the Infinity X Infinity Collection sold exclusively at Helzberg Diamonds.  The Infinity X Infinity jewelry collection is inspired by ABC’s hit TV show “Revenge,” and provides the perfect way to show your love this Valentine’s Day.  Created by award-winning jewelry designer Udi Behr, the collection emphasizes the double infinity insignia, symbolizing infinite love throughout the series.

Now you can bring some sparkle home and take a cue from lead character Emily Thorne and her father’s mantra, “I love you infinity times infinity.”

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With 21 pieces ranging in price from $49.99 to $999.99, the INFINITY X INFINITY jewelry collection offers the perfect gift on any budget this Valentine’s Day.  It is available now at helzberg.com/infinity and in Helzberg Diamonds’ stores nationwide.

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Ruffle Tank Top – hand me down from sister – similar | Lace Cardigan – Target (no longer available) – similar | Flower Pin/Clip – H&M (no longer available) – similar | Jeggings/Skinny Jeans via GAP | Boots – Kork-Ease ‘Adrianne’ via 6pm | Necklace – INFINITY X INFINITY Diamond Pendant in Sterling Silver c/o Helzberg Diamonds

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Disclosure: Helzberg Diamonds gave me my lovely necklace.  Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for charmedvalerie.com.  See Charmed Valerie ’s disclosure statement for more details.

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]]> http://charmedvalerie.com/2013/02/i-wore-romantic-look-infinity-x-infinity-collection/feed/ 12 http://charmedvalerie.com/2013/01/how-rock-your-boudoir-photo-session/ http://charmedvalerie.com/2013/01/how-rock-your-boudoir-photo-session/#comments Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:01:20 +0000 Valerie http://charmedvalerie.com/?p=3134

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Boudoir photos are one of the loveliest experiences I’ve had in my life.  I’ve had two boudoir photo sessions before and recommend them to anyone who wants to explore their sexy side.  Since it is that time of year when many women are preparing to surprise their significant other with boudoir photos, I thought I’d offer up some tips to tricks to prepare you to look as foxy as possible from the inside out.

Find a boudoir photographer that you are comfortable with.  All of my photographers have been female friends of mine.  The right boudoir photographer will know exactly how to help you feel like a rockstar goddess supermodel.  Seek recommendations from trusted friends.

Leave your self-consciousness and body insecurities at the door.  This is a normal workday for your boudoir photographer, they’ve seen it all before and both of your goals are to help you look as sexy as humanly possible.

Wear loose clothing on the day of your boudoir photo session.  Avoid tight clothing that will leave lines and indentions in your skin.  I suggest a men’s button down shirt or robe so that you don’t have to pull it over your hair and makeup.

Get yourself in the mood.  Groove your body to music that makes you feel like a goddess (Christina Aguilera’s music does that for me).  Play your music during your boudoir photo shoot.  Read erotic literature.  Do whatever you need to do so that when the time comes for your boudoir photos, you can mentally turn yourself on.  You can’t look sexy without feeling sexy in every cell of your body.

Prepare your body.

Nothing looks sexier than a confident woman.  If you are one of those self-loathing types, I’d like you to pay a visit to my role model Mama Gena who can help you create a “womantra”.  Look in the mirror daily and tell yourself lovely things about yourself (ex. “I am gorgeous.” “I am sexy.” “I am a sexual goddess.”).

When planning what to wear for boudoir photos, think outside the box.  Add jewelry brooches or rosettes to your lingerie.  One of my favorite boudoir outfits involved lace boyshorts with a silky flower pinned to my hip.  A lace scarf can be turned into a mini micro skirt or be tied over a bra to make it look extra glamorous.  I may do a sequel to this post about what to wear, let me know if you need ideas.

Find inspiration.  Have an idea of certain looks that you want to create and poses to try.  Pinterest is good for that.  Also check out hair and makeup tutorials on YouTube if you have to do your own or want to get an idea for your stylist.

Rehearse your sexy looks/poses in the mirror.  You’ll build muscle memory and will be able to know what you look like without a mirror/in front of the camera.

Arrive early, relax, and don’t get too liquored up.  Arriving early goes hand in hand with relaxing.  I’d think that most boudoir photo sessions include wine during you shoot but try not to over-indulge (drink enough to feel a little buzz). 

Special thanks to my friend Carole of Shot by Carole, who took these pictures of me in 2010.

Have you taken boudoir photos?  Plan to?  Have any additional questions?  Let me know in the comments!

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PHOTO CREDITS: Shot by Carole

There’s more where that came from! Holla ‘atcha girl -> :::: facebook ::: twitter ::: pinterest ::: google+ ::::

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I feel like my 2012 was more about surviving and boy howdy did I survive one of the most challenging years of my life.  My world got rocked and in the midst of it all, I realized exactly what is important in life and I witnessed an inner cheerleader that I wasn’t previously aware of.

Survival?  I’ve got that down and now I am ready to thrive.

I’m also 2 weeks into my 30th year which feels like as good a time as any to really kick things up a notch and live vibrantly.

Dare I?

I absolutely intend to live my life on purpose and jump in with both feet in everything and anything I desire in life.

That feels like such a BIG thing to say publicly on the internets but…it’s true.  I’m ready to put that out there and see what a year of intending to flourish gets me.

Fear is going to have to take a back seat this year….starting with my reluctance to hit “PUBLISH” on this post.

Let’s do this.

2013.  BRING IT.

What’s your word for 2013?  Please share in the comments (and link a blog post if wrote one)!

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I wore this fun little number the day after we got back into town on the 29th. I’m wearing 2 sweaters (one is a sleeveless sweater and the other is this one), an H&M scarf, Gap jeggings, and Toms Desert Wedges (a Christmas gift from my wonderful inlaws).  New February TOMSSPRING5 coupon, $5 off any pucharse of $25 @ TOMS.com

This outfit was super cozy, a little funky, and hella comfortable.

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The earrings were a gift handmade by my mother-in-laws friends who make jewelry (I’ll have to ask her for the name so I can pass it along…will update).

Below is what my nails looked like during the week of Christmas.  It’s the Sally Hansen French Mani nail strips in Gold Cabaret (I wrote about them here).

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To celebrate the launch of their new female-centric brand of wines, Butterfly Kiss hosted Ladies Night Out events across the country. I attended the Dallas event at Beauty Box Salon where wine tastings were paired with salon services like hairstyling and manicures.

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Here’s a daily outfit/ootd/event video I whipped up….

Winemaker Jason Dodge created these new wines to reflect his motto: “Always be open to those small moments of beauty that make life worthwhile.” The lively, bright flavors and lifted aromatics are kissed with distinctive touches that make Butterfly Kiss wines one of life’s pops of pleasure.

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My friend Jacki, my sister, and I enjoyed our girls night out and even learned some hair tricks from stylist Michelle Huynh. The event also benefited Locks of Love and monetary as well as hair donations were made.

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Butterfly Kiss wines feature four lively, bright varietals:
PINOT GRIGIO – a delicate, light wine showing kisses of citrus and ripe pear.
PINK PINOT GRIGIO – a rosé-styled wine showing lively flavors of strawberry shortcake and bright citrus.
CHARDONNAY – features lush, tropical fruit flavors, kissed by a touch of vanilla.
MOSCATO – a lovely, well-balanced sweet white wine loaded with stone fruit and citrus.

Wine Review

After sampling the four wines, Pink Pinot Grigio and Moscato were my favorite. If Rosé and Pinot Grigio had a lovechild, it would be Butterfly Kiss’ Pink Pinot Grigio. It is a one-of-a-kind wine that tastes outstanding. The moscato hails from Chile and tastes like sweet perfection.

With the holidays just around the corner, Butterfly Kiss encourages women to take a moment to unwind and enjoy time with friends while treating themselves to pops of prettiness.

Greater Dallas Retail Locations: Tom Thumb, Kroger, Market Street, Pittman Avenue Bev, Total Wine, I-45 Beverage Depot, and Boots Liquor.

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All you need is Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup (it’s tasty on it’s own and makes a great base for a variety of soups), frozen Roasted Corn, and 2 cans of Crab Meat (drained).  Throw it all in a big pot on the stove, add whatever seasonings to taste (like hot sauce, garlic, whathaveyou…), and eat.  I put the stove on medium until it was bubbling and then lowered it to low for a few minutes (maybe 10-ish….I’m a horrible food blogger, I didn’t time it).   Feel free to top it with cheese (I hear Parmesan is nice), I used Seaside Cheddar.

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I could hug that cashier for introducing me to this amazing easy soup!  And?  I’m not the only fan of Trader Joe’s, my kids are hooked.  My little foodie loves the demo station with food/drink samples and my oldest loves to shop with their kid-sized carts, help the cashiers at check-out, and find Banjo the armadillo (they give stickers/fruit snacks/candy as rewards).

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I’m still new to TJ’s and would love to hear about your favorite recipes/products/experiences.  Let me know in the comments!

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I’m not gonna lie….I totally bought this amazing lime greenish-yellow sweater at Target less than an hour before this picture was taken.  That’s just how I roll folks.

Sweater is Merona via Target | Necklace – Charming Charlie | Jeggings – Gap | Over-the-knee boots – Kork-Ease | learned to style my bangs on my fancy new weave here.

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SIDENOTE: Apparently, I’m not alone in these pictures….notice those green orbs in both pictures?  They were near me in all of the pictures I was in during this shoot.  I’m a total spiritual junkie so I think it’s the neatest thing ever.

Thanks for the awesome shots Jill and I can’t wait for you guys to see the rest of them!

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This is what my bangs look like when I tried to style them BEFORE seeing the tutorial.  See that “rainbow” looking weirdness?  Not the intended hairstyling result at all.  I wanted more BANG and less forehead.

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Here is the video tutorial by Jessica (LolaMarie7 on YouTube) that finally got me the side-swept bangs I longed for.

Since I don’t wash (or heat style) my hair daily, I needed a way to keep my side-swept bangs bangin’ while I slept so I pinned them (to the OPPOSITE side of my head) before I put on my satin bonnet to sleep.  Like this….

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So easy and now my bangs look perfect on a daily basis, no clip-in required.  Now, go forth and get more bang out of your bangs!

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The french manicure nail strips are new and I know for sure that you can find them at Target and CVS for about $10-13. Application takes a little longer than your average nail strips because after prepping your nails, you first apply the white tips and then a clear/sheer strip over the top of that. It was fairly easy and I cannot stop staring/oohing/aahing at the fabulous results. It was easy enough for me to apply on both hands.

Sally Hansen Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips in French Mani are available in 7 shades so far: French Twist (white tips with a pinkish clear coat), Pink Macaroon (pink glitter tips), Gold Cabaret (gold glitter tips), Noir Boudoir (black tips), Polka Party (white with pink polka dot tips), Silver Lining (silver glitter tips), and Excuses Moi! (traditional white tip with beige-ish tinted clear coat).

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I’ve been using these strips for years, have never had an issue with chipping (even with doing dishes and bathing babies), and I know that they will likely last for about 2 weeks when my nails grow out too much.

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Have you seen the French Mani nail strips in stores? Do you plan to try them? What shade is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!

That being said, I had a heck of a time color matching foundations that passed my purity/ingredient test. I left Sephora after trying on at least 10 colors and I was starting to feel very hopeless about the whole thing when I found Jane Iredale’s line through online searches. I loved everything I read about the ingredients, commitments, and product philosophy on JaneIredale.com. The next morning, I went to a local plastic surgeon’s office (it was the closest place with my shades) to get color matched and I left with Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals foundation in the Terra color. A few days later, I bought the Smooth Affair Facial Primer & Brightener

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Here’s a visual…

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When the liquid minerals foundation was applied with a regular foundation brush, it made my skin look muddy and weird-ish. I would have returned it if not for Sephora Collection’s Pro Flawless Airbrush #56 which really helped to distribute every particle of the foundation evenly and beautifully.

Jane Iredale’s Smooth Affair Facial Primer & Brightener is a primer that goes the extra mile. It’s more nourishing than any primer I’ve ever used and the ingredient list reads like a who’s who of superfoods.

Here is a closer look at what it’s done for my (very imperfect) skin.

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Skin tone is much more even and dark spots disappeared. All I have on is JI’s primer and foundation on half my face.

Here I just added my blush, mascara, and lip butter (I haven’t detoxed that stuff yet….it’s a process).

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Jane Iredale products are not cheap in any sense of the word. I paid $50 for the foundation, $44.50 for the primer, and it was worth every penny to me (my old favorite MakeUp Forever foundation is $42 and primer $34).

I honestly never expected to find truly natural/healthy products that would be aesthetically comparable to what I used to use but I am overjoyed that I did. My faith has been restored in the cosmetics industry and I’m looking forward to finding more products that are as good for the health of my skin as they are for my outside appearance.

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What are your thoughts about skin/earth friendly cosmetics? Have you taken the plunge to “green your beauty routine? Have any suggestions for me? This is really the tip of the iceberg on this whole conversation and I’d love to hear your feedback in the comments and/or social media. Hit me up with any questions you have as well as I am now a wealth on information.