In the Spirit of Giving

The new year is here, and I have been cleaning out my apartment before I drive myself and the Mister crazy. I realized I have so many beauty products I bought and never used, samples I had received - but forgot about, and various things that I thought would be a waste to throw away. So I decided to do a giveaway!

While it won't be anything major, or super fancy, it's still a few things I think you guys might like. "One person's trash is another person's treasure." All of the items are new, never used. I wouldn't do that to you guys!

I will be picking 3 lucky winners that will receive their gifts in the mail. Be on the look out for more details and pics soon!!!

-L

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream

This hand cream was phenomenal. I loved the way it made my hands feel after just 1 use, and even better after a week. I use it daily to help prolong my manicures. We all know how hectic life can be, so it's almost impossible to visit the salon every week when you need to (at least for me.) I also try to pinch pennies when I can and do most of my mani-pedi's at home. With years of practice, I've gotten better and most people think I've gotten my nails done professionally. Still more often than not I don't have the time to sit and give my manicures the full attention and time they need. So I cut corners sometimes and rush or skip certain steps. Shame on me I know! But sometimes you done have all the time you need.

Now I'm not a big fan of cutting your cuticles, especially when not all salons are that hygienic. But when I'm at home, things get out of hand and there are times where I just have no choice but to trim them with a cuticle cutter. I try not to make it a habit, as I tend to overdo it and almost always cut myself. With the Neutrogena hand cream though, I found that I didn't have to do so much work on my cuticles after awhile. They're much more manageable, and my skin has become so much softer! I just use it several times a day like I always do. At night and after my manis, I put a little extra on my cuticles and rub it in, then put white cotton socks on my hands (ghetto I know!) and go to sleep. In the mornings, my hands are baby soft and smooth! If my hands are extra dry, I mix in a little coconut and jojoba oils to help soothe my skin. It works especially well when my skin cracks from the cold if I forget my gloves at home.

Here's my latest "Speed Mani" using my new ELF nail polish in 'Glamour Girl.' I don't normally do colors like this, but I was trying something new and I actually liked it! (Don't make fun of my short nails, I had to cut them because of breakage.) Also in this pic, I have not cut my cuticles, and have not needed to in over a week! Thanks Neutrogena!

Be on the lookout for my giveaway! One lucky winner will get my last sample in their goody bag!

-L

Playing Betty

First post of the new year :)

These past few weeks have been dragging. Between work and handling the holidays, I've been drained. But I've been finding my way around the kitchen more recently, and I love it. Those of you following me on Instagram know that I've been baking a little more lately. While I've been trying not to eat as much as I'm making, I do have to say that I've gotten better at this homemaker thing. I've been adding to my kitchen collection as well. My mom got me this great stainless steel Faberware pot set with glass lids that I'm in love with right now. Now to drag that Cuisinart over.... I'm still pissed I missed that Groupon for the Kitchen Aid stand mixer. 4.5 qt for $199 with 3 attachments!!! Another time I guess. I also got a nice dessert book and set of ramekins from my co-worker. I'm really excited to use those ramekins! I was flipping through the dessert book as well and I want to make everything in it LOL. It's a quick and easy in 30 mins or less kind of cook book, so I shouldn't have any excuses. The Mister and everyone on Instagram will see the fruits of my labor. I just have to get better at decorating!

I still have to build up my kitchen to where I want it to be, but I'll have to wait until we move to a new apartment before I really get everything I want. For now I'll settle with the basics. But if anyone has any extra bakeware they want to get rid of, I'll be more than happy to take it off your hands ;)

Like I mentioned before, I won't be making any resolutions for the new year. I think its a bunch of crock. If we all tried to be better human beings, the world would be a better place. I make no promises. But I'll try.

Be on the look out.... Good things are coming!
-L