The Stephenson Fam

Sugar Blossom

2012-02-01T06:17:00.001-06:00

Rainy days got you down?

Beauti in bloom. Fresh scents of vibrant fruit, sheer florals and energizing woodsy notes leave a sweet impression.

Available in a wash, lotion and perfume!!
Perfect for Valentine's Day!!

Check out the latest with BC here.

Biblical Financial Lessons – Proverbs 21:5

2012-01-30T06:35:00.001-06:00

Here is another post from Joseph Sangl on how to make sound financial dicisions based on the Bible.

Check out Joseph's site here.
JosephSangl.com – “Biblical Financial Lessons”

I believe that the Bible is the best money book ever written, and I really want to take some time each week to share the money lessons I have learned from the Word.

Proverbs 21:5 The plans of the diligent lead to profit, as surely as haste leads to poverty.

This verse is the guiding principle of every financial decision I make.

There are two potential outcomes that exist in this verse:

■Profit
■Poverty

I may not know anything about you, but I do know this – you would choose profit over poverty every single time. We all want our lives to be profitable. This verse provides the map for a profitable life.

Look at the verse again. It shares two key principles that will help each of us have profit.

It states that “the PLANS of the DILIGENT” leads to profit. We must have a plan.

Let me ask you a question – “Do YOU have a plan? For your life? For your marriage? For your MONEY?

Having a plan is not enough, however. We must be diligent in following the plan! Diligence means that we are steadfast, consistent, persistent, disciplined, focused, and willing to persevere in spite of difficult circumstances.

Let’s break this down into practical terms and circumstances. Planning with diligence means that we …

■Have a budget and actually follow it
■Have a life plan and pursue it daily
■Live purposefully instead of lazily
■Refuse to listen to the critics and continue to relentlessly pursue our dream

Questions:

1.Do you have a long-term financial plan?
2.Do you have a monthly budget?
3.Do you follow your monthly budget?
4.Is your life leading to profit or poverty?

What is ONE THING you could do today that would make a difference tomorrow?

Jenn's Wedding

2012-01-27T05:45:00.000-06:00

In September one of my high school friends got married so T and I headed to Georgia for the wedding. My hubby had to work so T was my dance partner...

Catching up with high school buddies...

Of course T found the flower girl to hang with...

But this pretty girl is still his main sqeeze...

Congrats Jennifer and Justin!!!

2 of My Favorite Things

2012-01-25T08:27:00.005-06:00

I am often asked what are my favorite BeautiControl products. I will start with skincare. Skincare is a necessity. Makeup does great at hiding things and wrinkle products work great at getting rid of wrinkles but taking care of your skin starts with skincare. Makeup goes on better when you are using skincare and wrinkle products are more easily absorbed.

BeautiControl has skin sensors, that are uniquely ours, that measure the amount of oil or lack there of in your skin. That is why I am here, to help you see exactly what your skin needs. Everyone's skin is different so it is not a one size fits all.
My 2 favorite products in the BeautiControl Spa Facial line are...

1. Tonic (I use AHA but I hear PHA is great too)

2. Exfoliating Polish
Check it out here.
Each of the products to your personalized skincare is important and you need every step for your skin to respond the best (it's like a cake having every ingredient except the eggs or everything but the sugar or flower, you get my point).

Not only do they make your skin feel AMAZING but they are on sale until the end of January!!!

So why these 2 products?
Toner is like a final rinse to make sure we have gotten everything off. It also helps to close the pores and balance pack out the pH in our skin (both from the water).
The AHA tonic contains a blend of glycolic and lactic acids to exfoliate skin's surface layers, encouraging skin to boost the production of collagen, a natural component of youthful skin.
The PHA Contains a moisturizing blend of lactobionic acid and gluconolactone to gently exfoliate skin's surface layers, encouraging skin to boost the production of collagen, a natural component of youthful skin.

Our Exfoliating Polish has the finest beads I have ever felt so they are softer and make your skin feel GREAT!! These little beads are Jojoba beads that gently and naturally polish the surface layers of skin for a softer, smoother complexion.
It also contatins Mega-antioxidant complex consisting of encapsulated Resveratrol, acai berry and green tea extract to protect skin from oxidative and environmental damage.
Plus it contains a Skin brightening complex infused with licorice and citrus peel extract to reduce the appearance of age spots and skin discolorations.

See why these are 2 of my favorites in the BC Spa Facial line?!?!

Biblical Financial Lessons – Proverbs 13:11

2012-01-23T06:25:00.000-06:00

This is a series that appears on a weekly basis here at JosephSangl.com – “Biblical Financial Lessons”

These are in the words of Josheph. Check out his blog here.
I believe that the Bible is the best money book ever written, and I really want to take some time each week to share the money lessons I have learned from the Word.

Proverbs 13:11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow.

The part of this verse that speaks strongest to me is “he who gathers money little by little makes it grow.” For some reason when I was broke, I felt like the only way to win with money and gain margin was to save money in HUGE CHUNKS. Since that was impossible, it almost felt pointless to even get started.

BUT when I started saving money a little at a time, I STOPPED being broke and have been able to live to financial margin.

Questions:

1.Do you BELIEVE that you can save money little by little?
2.How much are you saving from each paycheck?
3.How much (or how much more) could you start saving from each paycheck?
What is ONE THING you could do today that would make a difference tomorrow?

Halloween

2012-01-20T06:26:00.000-06:00

I realized I never posted about Halloween so here it is... T man decided he wanted to be Goofy this year.
We started off with a fun fall festival at the Sportsplex

On Halloween night we trick or treated in our neighborhood....

1 year Anniversary!!!

2012-01-18T06:40:00.004-06:00

In honor of BC Spa Facial turning 1 it is 10% off in January!!! Our amazing exfoliating polish is 20% off since it is the BeautiPick of the month!!!

Don't know your skincare prescription? Call, message or e-mail me today and we can set up a time for us to meet and see exactly what your skin needs!!!

Thank you for your continued business!!!

Check out my Beautipage here.

Who needs a little organizing?

2012-01-16T06:35:00.000-06:00

I feel as though I am ever on a quest to be more organized, to have less clutter and rid our house of things we really don't need anymore.

I found this great info from Bed Bath and Beyond and Real Simple!!

Conquer Clutter in the New Year: Attic Organizing Checklist

1. Assess the clutter. Start by creating three
categories: keep, donate, and toss. As you
work your way through the items in the
attic, assign each one to a category. If you
rarely use a piece, it’s probably a good
candidate to either donate or toss.

2. Donate or toss. Contact local charities and
arrange for a pickup of items you would
like to donate; put the toss items out with
the trash or recycling.

3. Edit the belongings you’re keeping.
Winnow the keep pile even further,
creating new categories, such as out-of season
clothing, tax returns, etc. Allot each
category a location: Tax returns might be
assigned to a plastic storage box placed in
a corner of the attic; sporting equipment
might be sent downstairs to a wall cabinet
or a bin in the garage.

4. Label items. Give anything that’s not
plainly identifiable a clear label. (Tuck a
permanent marker and blue painter’s tape
in a zippered plastic sandwich bag and
have the kit handy for labeling anything
and everything.)

5. Choose the right shelving. Consider
installing metal shelving. It’s affordable
and easy to assemble, and it withstands
heat and humidity better than wood.

6. Pick plastic storage boxes. Cardboard
boxes, no matter how strong, bend and
dent with frequent use. Instead, choose
sturdy plastic containers, which protect
their contents better, seal tighter, and are
easy to carry or move around on shelves
(as long as they aren’t too big).

7. Hang items to save space. Use hooks and
pegs to bring order to disorder. Consider
hanging fire extinguishers, fishing rods,
and anything else you’d like to get off the
floor.

Barnsley Gardens

2012-01-13T06:25:00.000-06:00

In October, my cousin had a small family wedding at Barnsley Gardens in North Georgia. It was a really cool place and fun weekend with my family. Barnsley Gardens has lots of history and is very interesting to learn more visit here.
We had fun exploring when we first arrived...

Ready for the rehearsal dinner with my parents and Grand

At the rehearsal dinner, T had his own spot with his older cousins and he thought he was something...

After dinner, we enjoyed a bonefire at the ruins.
I thought this candelabra was so cool at the ruins...

From the big day...

Extreme!!!

2012-01-11T06:34:00.000-06:00

Women all over the world have said their top 3 skincare concerns are
1. Loss of Firmness and Elasticity
2. Lines and Wrinkles
3. Skin Discoloration
Thanks to BeautiControl for helping us all stay young with this Extreme product.....
Regeneration Tight, Firm and Fill Extreme Tri Peptide Complex

Check out this amazing product here!!!

Those same women also reported loss of plumpness and firmness in their lips.
Again, BeautiControl to the rescue with Regeneration Tight, Firm & Fill
Extreme Lip Treatment.

Check out this amazing new product here.

Win with Your Money in 2012

2012-01-09T06:28:00.000-06:00

I took this straight from Joseph Sangl here. So click here for the info below.

Identify Savings Opportunities

Saved money is better than a pay raise! Think about it, you will bring home after taxes about $0.70 for every $1.00 that you earn. So if you received a $1,000 pay raise, you really get to bring home about $700.

If you save $1.00, however, you actually have an entire extra $1.00 to spend! If you save $1,000, you actually have an extra $1,000 because it is take-home money that has already been taxed!

How could YOU save $1,000 in 2012?

Here is a short list of key areas where you can save TONS of money in 2012:

•Home and Auto Insurance The average person who has not gotten new quotes in the last two years will save between $500 and $700 per year! I really like THIS WEBSITE for obtaining on-line quotes. (see the above link)

•o% Balance Transfer Credit Cards Transfer that credit card balance that has high interest rates and surf the balance to a 0-percent balance transfer credit card and have all of your payment be applied to principal. Check out the ON-LINE OFFERS. (see the above link)

•Grocery Coupons Save between 20 and 30-percent on your grocery purchases by timing the use of coupons with the best sales. THESE WEBSITES are great and FREE providers of coupon lists for your favorite grocery stores. (see the above link)

What are some ways that YOU are planning to save money in 2012?

Tradition and Teddy Bear Tea

2012-01-06T06:51:00.022-06:00

Every year, we enjoy riding through the Collinwood Luminaries. It began in 1967 when members of a local garden club apporached Mrs. Aileen Samford and Mrs. Lucy Salter about their idea. From there, these 2 ladies recruited 15 other East and West Collinwood Circle residents to help and the tradition of the Collinwood Luminares was born. This year, 58 residents of Collinwood prepared over 1,500 sacks with candles to "light the path" on the "journey to the manger". It is so awesome because you ride through with your headlights off and only these little sacks filled with a candle light your way. It gives you just a glimpes of what Mary and Joseph experienced. On the path you see live shepherds, wisemen and angles following the star on their way to see the Christ Child. At the end was a live nativity scene thanks to FUMC of Opelika. At the starting point they handed us a litte pamphlet with John 3:16 and Luke 2:1-16 in it. What a wonderful ministry this subdivision has. Also in the pamphlet is showed everyone who participated and there are 6 original participants. I am intrigued with this whole concept and how it helps us try to relate more to Mary and Joseph. I can't imagine riding in the dark on a camel just hours before giviing birth. Wow!!!
The custom of "luminarias: is a festive tradition that originated in Mexico more than 400 years ago. The glowing lights of the candles symbolize the path that Mary and Joseph followed as they made their journey to the manger in Bethlehem where Jesus was born.

Thanks to Pinterest, I found this great idea!!! Pinterest used a pancake but we had waffles that night so we used waffles instead to make a Santa Waffle!!!

A new event T and I attended this year was the Teddy Bear Tea and we will be back!!!
It was so fun!! Sorry, these pictures are from my cell phone because my camera was messing up. (Thank you Mom and Dad for giving my hubby and me a new camera for Christmas so this doesn't happen again!!)

The hotel that offered the Teddy Bear Tea had these awesome gingerbread houses set up for us to enjoy of Auburn's campus!!

The big Teddy Bear greeted us as we wentered the tea room!!!

When we arrived at our table, there was also a little Teddy Bear and balloons for T to take home...

The big Teddy came to our table too!!!

Not only was a Teddy Bear at the Teddy Bear Tea but also an Elf was there!!

The Elf read 2 great Christmas stories the the children...

T and L enjoying hot chocolate and the delicious finger sandwiches...

T adding more marshmallows to his hot chocolate....

T's school friend was there too!!!

Sweets with L...

Enjoying sweets and hot chocolate!!!

Check out these cute gingerbread cookies....

As we were leaving, there was a Candy Bar!!!

T was able to pick the candy he wanted to take home with him!!

Brushes

2012-01-04T06:50:00.004-06:00

To use a brush or not to use a brush, that is the question.

They say it's a poor carpenter who blames his tools, but when it comes to
cosmetics, the right brush can make a look!!!

I found these great tips in Martha Stewart!! These tips are from Gucci Westman, Sue Devitt and Kristofer Buckle.

Applying eyeshadow can be tricky. A soft bristled brush that has a point makes it easy to target a precise area fo the lid. Start with a light wash of color and add more as you go.

Using a lip brush lets you apply product more precisely to create a polished finish.

Liquid and gel eyliners go on more easily with a stiffer brush. If you have a shaky hand, hold the brush closer to the bristles, like you would a pen, and keep your elbow lifted to maximize control and visibility.

A blush brush needs to be a prefect size and shape so you can target the apples of cheeks.

When applying foundation it's best to use a brush; the natural heat and oil on fingertips can make foundation look streaky and will keep it from lasting as long.

For concealer, you want a brush that has a tailored, slightly rounded head that fits into the eye contour. Use small feathering strokes to apply and blend with ring finger.

When using a powder brush, work the pigment into the bristles using the back of your hand for even distribution and a more natural effect.

Of course I am partial to BeautiControl's brush set (since I use it)....

Create picture-perfect makeup! BeautiControl Pro Brush Set includes five must-have, professional-quality makeup application tools. A brush each for powder, contoured blush, angled eye shadow, angled eyeliner, and a double-ended lash brow groomer. Brushes come in a chic, roomy black case with an additional zippered mesh pouch perfect for holding your favorite color products. Applying makeup with high-quality brushes make all the difference in the world! Each brush is made with soft, high-tech synthetic bristles that are treated to resist bacteria. This reduces the transfer of oil and bacteria for optimal cleanliness and perfect makeup.

My hostesses in January have the option to get this for free as their hostess gift!!!

Check out all of BeautiControl's fabulous products here.

More $$$$ Saving info from Joseph Sangl

2012-01-02T06:23:00.000-06:00

Taken from an e-mail from Joseph Sangl.....
Every family has those “unique” traditions that makes them special, and our family is no different. One of the particularly unique things that my mother does is keep all of the “solo” plastic cups from holiday to holiday. ALL of them. There are so many of us that we have to write our name on our cup with a Sharpie. When the holidays roll around, we just look through the cups and find one that we have already signed years ago.

All of us comment on this practice to our mother with a smirk, but she always responds with the phrase, “Waste not. Want not.”

Perhaps that is the reason my parents have enjoyed a great life raising six boys and have been able to retire when they chose to do so.

Do you have any interesting “re-use” stories in your family?

Christmas Wreath

2011-12-30T06:56:00.004-06:00

I found a wonderful recipe in our local newspaper. It was tasty, easy to make and
T could help me!!

Holiday Pretzel Wreath
1 package (about 6 ounces) of your favorite chocolate- milk, dark or white
1 bag (10 ounces) (I used Kroger brand) of mini, thin or homestyle pretzels
Red and Green holiday candies- (I used m&m) jelly beans or sugar sprinkles
1 package of red shoestring licorice (we don't care for licorice at our house so I
omited this step)
Wax Paper

1. Line a cookie sheet with wax paper. I traced the bottom of a plate to make the
wreath shape.
2. Melt chocolate in microwave (but do not burn like I did) or double boiler; stir.
Using tongs or a fork, dip the pretzels into the chocolate and layer in a circle, like a wreath, onto the wax paper.
3. After the wreath(s) are formed, use the red and green candies to sprinkle or place on top of the wreath(s).
4. When you have completed the wreath(s), cool until set, using the shoestring licorice to tie into a bow, at the top of the wreath.
5. After completely dried, transport to your serving dish carefully.

I took this to my Junior League cookie swap and the only thing bad about it is that it is a little hard to serve. I think men would love it though and dig right in and not think about messing up the wreath shape. LOL.

Here are pictures of my little helper (yes, his shirt is on inside out and backwards but he put it on all by himself and I wasn't going to crush him because he was so proud)....

Sorry I forgot to take a picture of the end product.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T06:28:00.008-06:00

May you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and remember Jesus Christ is the reason for the season.

Here are my favorite Christmas Songs...

Here are my hubby's favorite Christmas Songs..

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11 KJV

Today is the Day

2011-12-21T06:52:00.005-06:00

This Christmas....Give yourself the Gift of Spa :)
Join My Spa Team for only $99 until December 24th!
Make Money or Save $$.....

Today is the last day to save 10% off of
lip cremes, fall shadows and great gifts. Remember
I deliver (if you are near by) or mail (if you are far away) wrapped
and ready to give!!!

Check out everything on sale here and click on the great gift sale!!!

Happy Birthday!!

2011-12-19T13:15:00.006-06:00

I want to take a break from Money Monday to send a shout out to my hubby on his
25th birthday!!!
Happy Birthday to my wonderful husband, Chance!!! He is a wonderful Christian husband who works hard for our son and me. He is also a wonderful father to our little boy!! I couldn't ask for a better friend to spend the rest of my life with!!
Here's one picture from this summer that shows what an awesome dad he is...

He is so supportive of my BeautiControl business and helps me around the house and with our little boy so much.
Look forward to celebrating many more of his birthdays!!!

Soccer

2011-12-16T05:51:00.000-06:00

This year T man played 4 year old soccer. It started mid September and went until the end of October for 2 nights every week. T loved it and he was so fun to watch!!
4 years olds are entertaining anyway but put them on the soccer field and try to be organized and keep their attention and you will be even more entertained.

I will let the pictures speak for themselves...
First Practice...

The Wolverines...

The best part...shaking hands or as our team liked to do, having both hands out like an airplane

With Coach Brittany at their end of the season pizza party....

Product of the Month

2011-12-14T06:06:00.001-06:00

Here is BeautiControl's Product of the month that is 20% off this month!!!

Do dark circles and puffiness loom around? Have no fear BeautiControl is near!!

BC Spa Solutions
Under Eye Dark Circle & Puffiness Solution

Key Benefits:
• Stimulates the epidermis to help strengthen capillary walls and to produce collagen and elastin to effectively reduce the appearance of dark circles.
• Provides the optimal environment for the skin to flush out fluid that has built up under the eyes, reducing the appearance of puffiness and "bags".

Plus, from DECEMBER 1-22, 2011 you can
SAVE 10% on a selection of products that make great gifts!!

Check out everything on SALE this month here under SPECIALS

Christmas Shopping List- Stay On Track

2011-12-12T06:59:00.000-06:00

Another great post from Josheph Sangl...

8 years ago, my family figured out how to stay within our Christmas spending budget.

1.We planned BEFORE buying a single gift (using the Mini-Budget)
2.We pulled the planned money out in cash (except for on-line purchases)
3.We put away the debit/credit card (except for on-line purchases)
4.We stuck to the plan (diligence)!
You can do the same!

How are YOU doing with your Christmas spending?

Okay this is me, Blakely, talking now. I have found one thing that works great for my family and me is purchasing items all year round. I like to just buy the item(s0 when I see them and they look like someone in our family. Much less stressful than just going in a store and having to come out with a gift. Also, purchasing the item(s) when they are on sale or I have a coupon to that store for example a 10% off coupon, $5 off, etc. so I can get them a nicer gift and still stay in our budget!!
Hope this helps you!!

Our Nephew turned 2

2011-12-09T06:49:00.003-06:00

The weekend before Thanksgiving, we celebrated our nephew's 2nd birthday!!
My sister in-law is very creative and did a great job with his construction party!!
I'll let the pictures speak for themselves

Dry Skin?

2011-12-07T06:58:00.003-06:00

Cold weather can mean dry skin. Combat dry skin with these
tips for healthy winter skin...
* For drier winter skin, a non-soap body wash is your
best bet.
This one is wonderful here.
* Although a steamy shower sounds great on a cool day, exposing skin to
water at 98.6 degrees and above can result in drier skin. Keep hot showers
under 5 minutes and remember to pat your skin dry.
* To get the full moisturizing effect of body lotions, apply them while your
skin is still damp. Check out this great moisturizer here.

This whole collection is great for getting rid of dry skin...

Intense Total Body Treatment

Help defy the signs of aging with the intensely hydrating BC Spa Body collection. Each product contains a complex of ingredients to help skin recapture its radiance. Experience soothing therapy for sore, tired muscles as you nourish and hydrate skin.
See my beautipage here.

Financial Margin

2011-12-05T06:36:00.002-06:00

Financial margin is something we all want and need in order to stay focused on the far more important things in our lives!

#1 – Reduce interest rates on existing debt

This escapes many people because the interest rate of debt is usually “out of sight –out of mind”, but it could very well be the greatest one step you could take to gain financial margin.

Joseph Sangl highly recommend using his free tool – the “Actual Cost of Debt calculator” to determine just how much your debt is costing you – be sure to find out your actual interest rates so that the numbers will be accurate.

Here are two areas I where I see people save tons of money by reducing their interest rates.

1.Mortgage Interest Rate For every $10,000 finances, a 1% reduction in interest rate will save $100. So if you have a $150,000 mortgage and could lower your interest rate by 1%, you will save $1,500 per year in interest – $125 per month! I encourage you to use CNN’s Refinance calculator to see what refinance deals would work best for you.
2.Credit Card Interest Rate This is where I typically see ridiculous interest rate charges that are simply not necessary! Consider $6,000 in credit card debt at
21.99%. That will result in interest charges of nearly $1,300 a year. This is why Joseph is such a fan of 0% Balance Transfer Credit Card offers and maintain a list of offers on this website. If that $6,000 of debt were moved to a 0% balance transfer credit card offer, that incredible amount of interest would actually be applied to debt reduction!
Here are other areas to look at – vehicle loans, medical debts, furniture loans, personal loans, payday loans, 401(k) loans, and any type of loan where interest is being charged.

Thanksgiving

2011-12-02T06:40:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving last Thursday with their family!!!

I loved this idea from Pinterest my friend Addie shared with me.

T with our Thanksgiving Tree

T and I made it our own...

He did a great job drawing pictures of this he is thankful for. I am going to save these and look at them every year!!!

T's preschool and our church sang for our church Thanksgiving sermon. T did a great job. My parents, my in-laws and my grandmother came to watch!! We enjoyed a delicious dinner at Ma Fia's downtown so check it out if you are in town!!

T's class was assigned crackers and cheese for there Thanksgiving lunch. This is the max of my creativity...pumplin and leave cheese. T loved doing this!!

I am so thankful I work for myself and can set my own hours so that I don't miss things like T's Thanksgiving lunch.

Cute turkey cupcakes someone made

Aunt Kella and Mr. DJ came to enjoy the lunch too

T with some of his school friends

Our church has a wonderful program called Mom2Mom that meets once a month. This month we talked about forgiveness and sacrife. Our preacher's wife led the devotion and she is wonderful. Such a Godly woman. Then we made a wreath to have on our table for Thanksgiving!! Thanks to Mrs. Joan for helping with this task!! I love having real items in the house for decorations!!

Make Your Presence Known!!!

2011-11-30T06:24:00.002-06:00

Check out this gorgeous packaging...

Look what it makes your lashes look like!!!

•Instantly illuminate your lashes with light-reflecting pearls.
•Nutrient-packed formula nourishes and conditions lashes.
•Chic black packaging with sparkling silver accents.
•Great for gift-giving!
I have only 3 LEFT and BeautiControl has already sold out of this product!!!

Great way to add a little bling to your eyes for Christmas parties!!

Check out other items in the here.

Cyber Monday

2011-11-28T11:47:00.002-06:00

Are you Loving all the CYBER MONDAY DEALS?!?!
Here's another one to LOVE ♥
Shop online from My webpage now through Midnight and save an Extra 20% off your entire order!! Use promocode cyber20 at Checkout!
Enjoy the great Holiday Sales and the additional Savings :)
Go here to my Beautipage NOW!!!

More info from Joseph Sangl

2011-11-28T06:39:00.000-06:00

We are continuing in this series of “Top 5 Ways To Gain Financial Margin” and this next part takes a little while, but it is SO WORTH IT!

#2 – Eliminate Debt

Most people have no idea just how much of their monthly income goes to service debt. They have the obvious debt payments for their car or furniture, but they also have loans that are automatically paid via on-line bill-pay services or through payroll automatic deduction.

Do YOU know how much of your money is being sent to a lender each month? If you have debt, I recommend that you stop right now and add it up. The car, credit cards, student loans, 401(k) loan, furniture debt, personal debt owed to another person, and the house. Seriously, use this tool to add up how much you owe total and the amount of money you are paying to the lender each and every month.

NOW – consider what life would be like if you were debt free. ALL of that money would now be available to you to pursue so many other things and dreams. You could bless your family and so many others in need. And … you could breathe more easily.

Even just paying off a couple of debts can create substantial financial margin and breathing room.

Botox in a Jar

2011-11-23T06:17:00.000-06:00

Pictures speak louder that words...

No pain, needles, down time or surgery required. I love BeautiControl's high-end results without the high-end price!!

Check out Tight, Firm and Fill Face Creme here.

Start a Successful Business

2011-11-21T06:30:00.002-06:00

Another great idea from Joseph Sangl and you know that I know of a wonerful business you can start. Check it out here.

#5 – Start A Successful Business

Of course, this is easier said than done. However, if you look around, there are TONS of successful businesses and someone started them! Why not you?

Do you have a marketable skill set? Do you have an idea that would allow you to serve customers in ways that they have never been served before? What can you do that people would recognize value in and be willing to pay for?

A business can allow you to win with money and put several zeros behind it! Starting a business can be one of the most rewarding things a person can do. It certainly has been that way for me!

Disney Cruise

2011-11-18T06:20:00.005-06:00

As usual, I am way behind. LOL, what is new.

In September we had the pleasure of going on the
Disney Crusie again. Thanks Mom and Dad!!

I will let he pictures speak for themselves (I took like 200 so I'll narrow it down for you)...

If you haven't been on a Disney Cruise, I highly recommend it!!
If you are my friend on facebook you can see alot more pictures.

Living Within Your Means

2011-11-14T06:51:00.000-06:00

I think that sometimes at Americans we get so caught up in having the newest and the latest. I have talked about Joseph Sangl before and today he had great advice....

SERIES: Top 5 Ways To Gain Financial Margin –
This next part of this series can be painful, but the end result can be worth it!

#4 – Sell Possessions

What do you have that you could sell?

•Car
•Boat
•Motorcycle
•Camera equipment
•Collectibles
•Antiques
•House
•Tractor
•Furniture
•Land
•Business
I have no idea what you possess, but it might make sense to sell it if you are flat broke! Let’s face it, no one likes to sell their stuff. We like stuff. However, if that stuff is preventing you from winning financially, it is time to wave goodbye to it!

Don’t worry, you will be able to buy it back later once you have began prospering – and probably at an incredible discount!

Check out other posts by Joseph here.

A Man Putting BeautiControl on the Lips of Every Woman

2011-11-09T08:51:00.000-06:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Keith in Dallas at our National BeautiContorl Event in July and he is so nice.

A Man Who's Putting BeautiControl on The Lips of Some Very Famous Women!

This past week, I reached out to an old friend, and long-time BeautiControl Consultant, Keith Harley after looking at some excitement on his Facebook page. If you've been a part of BeautiControl for a while, you most likely are familiar with Keith. He has been in the beauty business for more than 26 years, and 15 of those have been affiliated with BeautiControl. Keith has maintained a highly successful and well known salon in Arlington, Virginia called Keith Harley Salon, Hair and Scalp Clinic, and is very much in demand when it comes to hair, makeup and style. As an industry influencer, Keith is the man to call when celebrities come to the area, not to mention his very influential clientele.

The thing that caught my attention was a photo that Keith posted of a very well known Desperate Housewife, Eva Longoria, as he styled her for a White House event in Washington. Knowing how much all of you love to share in the success of your fellow Consultants, not to mention see our BeautiControl products being used for celebrity makeovers, I reached out to Keith and asked him if I could make him the topic of today's blog and share some of his more recognizable clients. Some of Keith's clients include not only the beautiful Eva Longoria, but other notable celebrities such as singers Sheila E., Gloria Estefan, Ciara, and Ledisi. President of the BET, Debra Lee as well as Gayle King.

As you all have heard me say 1,000 times, BeautiControl is an equal opportunity business. Whether you are a male or a female, this is a business that can offer an amazing opportunity. Last July, I wrote what I consider to be a very important blog called Man This is a Great Business about the opportunity that a man can have in this business and how important it is to share this opportunity with men and women alike. If you didn't get the opportunity to check it out, click on the link above and check it out.

I asked Keith a few questions about what makes him successful in this business, and here's what he had to say:

What makes me successful?

•The ability to develop relationships with people and to have confidence in my ability to show them BeautiControl products.
•Create simple solutions that have a major impact! 
•Work on a upscale level: dress the part, be the part, act the part that represents the brand that BeautiControl provides for us!
I have have been with other companies and have tried other product, but nothing compares to BeautiControl and what the company stands for!   My mission is to develop a national area, in
the next 3 years so that I can provide a opportunity for people to be apart of a company that is on a mission that is not impossible!

Well said, Keith! Thanks for sharing and thanks for helping to change the lives of so many people that you come in contact with every day.

If you want to know more about Keith and his salon, be sure to check out his website: Keith Harley Salon, Hair and Scalp Clinic

So Sorry

2011-11-07T08:49:00.002-06:00

I am so sorry for the lack of posting. We have been crazy and I left my camera in my Grandmother's car when we went to a wedding last weekend.

Back to Money Monday...

I receive e-mail messages from JosephSangl.com and here is the info from today.
I thought this was very appropiate with Christmas around the corner. Try to pay for Christmas in cash so that it's not so stressful and you don't pay for it 5 times.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Top 5 Ways To Gain Financial Margin

Posted: 06 Nov 2011 10:00 PM PST

Lots of people are looking for financial margin these days. They are SICK of living paycheck-to-paycheck. They want to be able to have at least a little fun during the month. There are expenses that have been put off way too long – things like home and car repairs.

I want to help you have that margin! Life with margin allows you to live life on a mission.

Top 5 Ways To Gain Financial Margin

1.Reduce interest rates on existing debt
2.Eliminate debt
3.Increase income – through pay increase, overtime, or 2nd job
4.Sell possessions – especially those that have ongoing expenses
5.Start a successful business

How much FINANCIAL MARGIN would you like to have 12 months from now?

Savings for Christmas

2011-11-02T07:47:00.003-05:00

Save $5 off of this item in November!!!
Warming Trend Green Tea Masque is a botanically-enriched masque that cleanses the skin of dirt, oil and residue. Self-heating and aromatherpeutic benefits moisturize the skin, leaving it softer, smoother and healthier looking.

Plus there is a great gifts sale going on right now too!!

Perfect for everyone on our Christmas list!!

I can help you save time and money!!

www.beautipage.com/averybc

Videos

2011-10-28T06:22:00.001-05:00

Lighthouse at Aquarium

Penguin

Braves Game

Kardashian Women

2011-10-26T06:06:00.000-05:00

Thanks to E! we all know about Kim Kardashian's, beautiful, wedding. Guess were the Kardashian women could be found during fashion week?
Checkout the bags below Kardashian's feet... WOW! BeautiControl, the official makeup sponsor of the Avril Lavigne Fashion Show this week. BC product and development guru Gary Jones was there to witness it all and get these great shots. Do you think we might see the On the Lips of Every Woman tote bags on Keeping Up with the Kardashians?

Braves Game

2011-10-21T06:17:00.004-05:00

The same day that we went to the Aquarium, we also went to a Braves game. We just made it a fun packed day in Atlanta. This is what he looked like when we found our seats at the game. He enjoyed walking around in the Braves Museum.

I am having trouble getting my video to load so maybe this weekend I can get it figured out!!

Hope you and your family have a FABULOUS weekend!!

Detox

2011-10-19T06:53:00.001-05:00

Want a Detoxifying Clay Masque that has a powerful blend of natural ingredients they deep clean and help pull toxins and impurities from your skin?
How does it work?
Detoxifying Complex with Kaolin and Black Silt from freshwater lakes in Eastern Europe help to pull toxins and impurties from the kin so it can function more properly
Enriched with detoxifying Sea Buckthorn and Sea Kelp to condition and purify the skin. Where can you find this great masque? BeautiControl!! Plus it's 10% off right now!! Check it out here.

Best Sites and Apps

2011-10-17T06:31:00.002-05:00

I found this in the August 2011 issue of Money and wanted to share.

To find manufacturer coupons, go to the following:
Coupons.com
redplum.com
smartsource.com
If you shop at Kroger and have a Kroger card can advantage of their deal of day from now until October 25th Kroger.com!!

To save some legwork:
Couponmom.com
AllYou.com

To pay less when shopping online check out Retail Me Not for deals!!

To declutter your in-box check out Yipit (I just signed up for this so I can't tell you exactly how it works yet). You can select more that one city but it is only bigger cities like Atlanta, Birmingham, etc.

Restaurant.com is a great place to purchase gift certificates for a fraction of the cost. I have purchased and used several of these.

Please know that I haven't done any of these apps so I am not sure if they are free apps or not.
One Money suggested is GeoQpons for coupons you can use straight off your device.
Another app is cardstar, which lets you store loyalty cards on your phone.

Hope this helps you save money for your family!!!

Georgia Aquarium

2011-10-14T06:34:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago my parents were in town and took us to the Georgia Aquarium!!
We had so much fun!! Thank you for taking us Mom and Dad.
Check out the Georgia Aquarium here.

I will let the pictures show you our fun. I am a terrible daughter...I failed to get a picture of T with my mom and dad. Who does that?

eBeauti and eStyle

2011-10-12T06:30:00.001-05:00

Have you checked out eBeauti? As of Sept 1st 7,352 people have completed eBeauti!!
Are you intense cool, subtle cool, subtle warm or intense warm?

How about eStyle? As of Sept 1st 7,349 people have completed eStyle!!
Are you perfectly polished, irresistibly romantic, dramatically glam or naturally chic?

Check it out here.

What are you?

The most common have been Intense Cool with 5,538 and Naturally Chic with 4,181

Hostess Rewards

2011-10-10T07:01:00.001-05:00

Are you looking for a way to save money on products you love?
Direct Sales companies offer great incentives for hosting home
parties. In exchange of you inviting your friends over, direct sales
companies offer a one on one opportunity to shop. Plus as the hostess
you receive free products and products at a discount!!
With Christmas quickly apporaching, you can use your hostess
credit to purchase gifts for others.

BeautiControl is offering this fabulous tote...

$500 Retail + 2 bookings = FREE BeautiControl Holiday Tote For my Hostess!
Stylish, silver tote is the perfect accessory this holiday season!
This gorgeous metallic silver tote is the must-have accessory for your Hostess this season! You can carry gifts, makeup, everything she needs-and carry it in holiday style.

Plus, I offer my hostesses 40% off of their personalized skincare set and
free products of their choice!!

Thank you BeautiControl for letting me reward my hostesses so much!!!

Fun Friday Last Week

2011-10-07T06:14:00.001-05:00

Last Friday, T and I got to take special snack to preschool again!! This time
we had letter S (yes, we got to pick letters so I checked my cute recipes before signing up for a letter).

T with his special snack....

Our Picture...

Martha's Picture...

As you can see, I have a long way to go to be Martha Stewart but I am giving it a shot. A girl has to start some where right?

Here is the recipe if you would like to embrace your Martha side!!! Please note that I cut the recipe in half. I didn't have the pan Martha was talking about so I just used a square pan and cut a small circle out of. I iced the extra cake for us to eat!! Also, I didn't use gel-paste food color, I just used food coloring.

Sunflower Cupcake Cake
Active Time: 1 hour Total Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Makes one 5-inch cake and about 75 mini cupcakes (serves 12 to 25)

1 ½ cups all purpose flour, plus more for pan
3 cups cake flour (not self-rising)
2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
¾ teaspoon baking soda
Course Salt
2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for pan
2 ¼ cups sugar
6 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups low-fat buttermilk, room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Easy Buttercream (recipe follows)
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
Gel-paste food coloring (nycake.com)
¾ cups blackberries or blueberries

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Sift flours, baking powder, baking soda and
1 ½ teaspoons salt into a bowl.

2. Beat butter and sugar with a mixer on medium-high speed until pale and
fluffy, about 3 minutes. Reduce speed to medium and add eggs, 1 at a time.
Reduce speed to low and gradually add flour mixture, alternating with buttermilk,
beginning and ending with flour. Beat in vanilla.

3. Butter a 5-inch tart pan with a removable bottom, dust with all-purpose
flour and tap out excess. Line mini-muffin tins with mini baking cups (need 75total)

4. Fill tart pan halfway with batter (about ½ cup), then fill each baking cup
halfway with batter (a generous tablespoon each). Bake until tops spring
back when lightly touched, about 12 minutes for the cupcakes and 14 minutes
for the cake. Transfer pans to wire racks and let cake and cupcakes cool completely.

5. Transfer ¼ cup buttercream to a bowl and stir in cocoa powder. Divide remaining
buttercream among 3 bowls and tint each batch a different shade of yellow or orange
with gel-paste food coloring. Frost tops of cupcakes using the 3 colors. Frost
top of cake with chocolate buttercream. Arrange berries over top of cake to cover
and create “seeds.” Arrange cupcakes around cake to create “petals,”
forming a sunflower shape.

Make ahead, unfrosted cake and cupcakes can be stored at room temperature for
up to 3 days.

Easy Buttercream
Total time 10 min., makes 5 cups (enough for 5-inch cake and 75 cupcakes)

4 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
6 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar

Beat butter and vanilla with a mixer on medium-high speed until pale
and fluffy about 2 minutes. Reduce speed to low. Add sugar, 1 cup
at a time, beating well after each addition. Raise speed to high and
beat until well combined 10 to 20 seconds more. Transfer to a bowl
and cover with plastic wrap until ready to use.

From Martha Stewart Living March 2011

We finished off our fun Friday with a bowling night with Daddy (sadly my camera died and I didn't have extra batteries).

BeautiControl's 30th Anniversary Celebration Continues...

2011-10-05T06:51:00.000-05:00

Happy 30th Anniversary BeautiControl!! To celebrate this month, BeautiControl is offering our Regeneration® Tight, Firm & Fill® Extreme Wrinkle Concentrate for 20% off!!

Instantly targets lines and wrinkles with a 30% blend of our patent-pending triple peptide complex combined with other powerful age-fighting ingredients to reduce the appearance of even your deepest wrinkles.

Check it out here.

So Sorry

2011-10-03T09:55:00.003-05:00

So Sorry for not posting on Friday. Our internet was out until late yesterday. The Charter guy had to come and fixed it. I must say he was very nice and very helpful.

Now, on to Money Monday...
A while back I started subscribing (free email's once in a while) to JosephSangl.com. I know that everyone's financial situation is different but I do feel that Joseph offers lots of wonderful financial advice from a Christian perspective. As I said, everyone's financial situation is different and with that being said, I don't agree 100% with everything that Joseph says (that is what makes us individuals, right) but do feel he his amazing points and ideas we all can learn from.

With the debt that the federal government is accruing right now I feel like this post is very applicable and a good way to keep is in check. Check it out here.

Here's to debt free living!!

Lip Cremes

2011-09-28T06:25:00.001-05:00

Last week I got these awesome Lip Cremes in!!! They go on like lipgloss but stay on like a lipstick. What is your favorite color? Rose Blush, Buff, Cherry Blossom, Rich Fig or Mahogany? I am already out of one of the colors. Hurry and get yours before I am sold out... these are LIMITED EDITION!!
This picture is from my cell phone but you can also check them out here.

Get sunburned at the game and have dry dead skin hanging around? Had a good friend and client's husband call me last week and need something for his sunburned forehead from football game. BeautiControl's Spa Facial Purifying Exfoliating Polish got his forehead looking better than ever!!

I received a copy of The Little Black Book Fall 2011 by BCBGMAXAZRIA. On the inside of the front cover it says, "This fall is all about the unexpected details that reveal individual style." Max and Lubov Perfect time to check out your personal style on BeautiControl's eBeauti!! Check it out eBeauti on my beautipage www.beautipage.com/averybc

MRP

2011-09-26T06:31:00.000-05:00

BeautiControl launched our new BC Spa Facial line earlier this year and it is FABULOUS!!! BeautiControl has improved our skincare and even saved those of us already using BeautiControl time and money with this new skincare. The onld M.R.P. consisted of 4 basic Maintenance (the skin on the surface you do see) steps(cleanser, toner, moisturizer and scrub), 2 Repair (for the skin you can't see under the epidermis) steps (one for you eyes and one for your face) and then a Prevention (for the skin you will see) product with SPF in it. We now offer 4 skincare steps (Purifysing Cleanser, Regenerating Tonic, Exfolitating Polish and Defend Moisture Lotion with SPF 20) and then a night creme and eye creme if desired. With the new BC Spa Facial line, BeautiControl is saving us time and money!! Two things we all could use more of!!

Here is a little back ground of what BeautiControl has done over the past few years...
The formula for BeautiControl’s success in skin care has always been very simple…M.R.P. Maintenance, Repair and Prevention is the formula that made BeautiControl’s products one of a kind and made us a force to be reckoned with in this highly competitive skin care and cosmetic market. After the introduction of Regeneration in 1993, BeautiControl quickly became known for our prowess in the anti-aging arena and became a market and trend leader when it came to skin repair. The introduction of Microdermabrasion sealed the deal and the competition knew that we had the corner on skin repairing treatments at the most affordable price on the market.
No longer did you need to combine multiple products to get the results that you now get with the use of your basic skin care line. Combine the use of these products with your Microdermabrasion and TFF for an added bonus and you see immediate changes to your skin, while knowing that you are getting the long-term, age reversing results that BeautiControl is known for.

Is change hard? You bet it is. Is change necessary? You bet it is. Companies that don’t change die! Without advancements in technology BeautiControl would not be BeautiControl. Our niche in this market has and will always be offering the most advanced solutions for skin care and anti-aging products. There is not another company that offers what we offer. You can’t touch our technology and you certainly can’t touch our price-points!

I love helping my clients see results and save money at the same time!!
For example, I have a client who has been using other BeautiControl products but never our skincare. We were talking a few weeks ago and she is spending $40 a month, that's $480 a year on skincare. BeautiControl's personalized skincare lasts approximately 3-4 months and cost $99. BC will save her $21 every 3 months which means she will save $84 a year!! Just another reason I love BC, high end results with out the high end price!!

Have a great Monday!!

Out of the Mouth of Babes

2011-09-23T06:10:00.001-05:00

Here is our preschool going boy...

Recently they had school pictures and this is what my 4 year old "baby" boy had to say...
"Momma, picture day is coming soon and I need to wear somehting stylish, sharp, rough and tough." I love this little boy. He bring joy to your lives!!!

Comfort the Weekend Warrior and Don’t Get Irritated

2011-09-21T06:48:00.000-05:00

There is a weekend warrior in all of us. The weekend gets here and we play too hard or spend just a tad more time in the sun that we expected. Here are some must-haves to keep on hand in the event that you over-do:

•Luxuries of the Sea Instant Comfort Gel – this product is great to keep on hand for general muscle and joint aches and pains. This product takes no time at all to penetrate and give you quick, long lasting comfort. Check it out here.
•BC Spa Detox Bath Soak – When your muscles are tired, sore and over-worked, grab a bottle of BC Spa Detox Bath Soak and head for the tub. 20 minutes in a warm bath will help open the pores, purge toxins and energize your body. This product is also good immediately after sun exposure to help alleviate the damaging effects of too much sun. Find it here.
•TFF Dermal Filling Moisture Mask – we all do it. We think we are going to be ok, then 2 hours after coming in the house realize the “OUCH!” of too much of a good thing. One miracle treatment that I love to keep around for over-exposure to the sun is the Regeneration Tight Firm and Fill Dermal Filling Moisture Mask. Apply a generous amount to the skin, and allow it to penetrate. Instead of rinsing, rub the product into the skin before bed. The skin rejuvenating benefits of the Hyaluronic Filling Spheres will work magic on your skin while you sleep, turning that terrible burn, into a beautiful bronzed tan. Great for dry skin too, check it out here.

Don’t Get Irritated

As much as we love to be outdoors during the Summer, we are constantly exposed to a variety of factors that can leave our skin irritated. Elevated temperatures, bug bites, contact allergies, dermatitis and exposure to those less than skin-friendly botanical varieties such as poison ivy, poison oak, evergreen trees, etc, can cause temporary, but uncomfortable itching, stinging and rash like symptoms. Here are a few must have products to keep on hand to relieve itching and discomfort, while expediting the healing process of skin irritations:

•Skinlogics Sensitive Protective Services – face, find all the details here
•Corticure Comfort Lotion – body, find it here

Looking to Make $$ or Save $$

2011-09-20T14:26:00.005-05:00

BeautiControl is offering an AMAZING opportunity right now (for only 10 more days) to get $242 in product for only $99!!!

By becoming a BeautiControl Consultant you can make money by holding spa escapes and sharing with your family and friends or you can save money on your own products!!!

I will be glad to talk with you in more detail!! Message me today or find me on facebook here. If you know BeautiControl is something you are ready to do right now, click here to go to my webpage and then select change your life in the left hand corner.

Here is a picture of the fabulous products you receive....

Here is a list of the fabulous products you receive...
$242 Retail Value includes:
BC Spa Facial Collection (7 pieces)
Revolutionary Skin Sensors (20)
Skinlogics Lip Apeel*
BC Spa Instant Manicure *
BC Spa Extreme Repair Hand Therapy*
Defend and Restore Night Crème (10 samples)
Restructuring Eye Crème (10 samples)
Product Spatulas
Playbook and How to Spa DVD
Spa Materials to share the opportunity and
sell products
Gorgeous Spa Now Bag
* Best Selling Products

Friday Lunch

2011-09-14T06:02:00.000-05:00

Last Friday T and I took a picnic lunch to the local airport to watch planes landing and leaving. He loved it last year and loved it again this year!!
Last year..

This year...

I can't believe how much he's changed in a year (I know you can't really tell in this picture but take my word for it. LOL). Time is flying by way to quickly.
Have a wonderful weekend and War Eagle!!

Fashion Week

2011-09-14T05:59:00.001-05:00

That's right BeautiControl is in the news and working Fashion Week again this year!!

BeautiControl will be walking the runways at Fashion week this year for a star-studded Fashion week experience that you all will love to be a part of.

BeautiControl was such a success last year, that we were invited back to co-sponsor and provide makeup/hair for each of the Style 360 Shows, as well as re-unite with Irina Shabayeva (you may remember her from Project Runway and remember when we provided hair and makeup for her first NYC Fashion show), in tandem with Audi and Swarovski to co-sponsor her Spring 2012 Fashion Show.

This is very exciting. Not only do we get to participate in the incredible Style 360Shows, which feature emerging creative designers that are sure to get a great deal of media attention, but we really have the opportunity to get very up close and personal with the designers and play a very key role in the makeup design and selection for the shows. We have an unusual opportunity with these shows to reach a huge and extremely diverse audience.

We are in great company this year as we team up with the following sponsors to help features these designers as they premier their Spring 2012 fashion runway collections:

If you want to know more about any of the designers, you can follow this link to elle.com and learn more about each of the designers involved in the shows. Many of this year's designers are anticipating a large following of media support this year, so be sure to watch E television and look for us again.

As I said earlier, we will also be sponsoring Irina Shaybayeva's Spring 2012 Fashion show which is sure to be a very grand affair.

BeautiControl Sale

2011-09-12T05:37:00.003-05:00

There are lots of BeautiControl products that you can save money on this month!!!

Microderm Abrasion is the BeautiPick of the month!! Save 15%!!!

Check out all the details here.
Microderm Abrasion deeply exfoliates the skin surface to dramatically increase skin firmness, diminish lines & wrinkles, & restore clarity!
It can cost up to $200+ for just ONE treatment, and you need at ...least 10 treatments to see a difference! BC's Microderm Abrasion is at least 15+ treatments! $2000 vs. $59.50!

Plus you can save 10% during our night and day sale. Check it out here to find
Defend and Restore Moisture Lotion and Creme
Defend and Restore Night Creme
Regeneration with Retinol (that is great for age spots/dark spots/ sun spots)
and BC Spa Facial Multi Acid Peel 10% OFF!!! There are more so head on over the see ALL the sale items!!

What do Champagne and Caviar, Sultry and Twilight have in common?!?!
They are..... LIMITED EDITION BC COLOR INTENSE MINERAL SHADOW TRIOS!!!
Check out these hot colors....I have them instock today!!!

Art Cookies

2011-09-09T11:03:00.013-05:00

Each week at pre-school T is working a new letter. Last week he learned the letter A. On Friday the kids have special snack that the Moms take turns bringing in.

I signed up for the letter A because I remembered seeing a great idea in Martha Stewart Living!! So, T and I made Art cookies last week!!! He loves to help so I thought it would be fun for him to help make something for his class and learn more about the letter A.

Here is a little video of the experience (please excuse my southern accent, geez it sounds worse on video)...

Daddy came in as we were adding the food coloring and helped us...

Here is my precious preschooler with his Art Cookies. He however wasn't feeling 100%that day so we had to take the cookies to school and come back home. At least we had fun making them!!

If you would like to make them with your child click here to find Martha's recipe!! Please not that we didn't use straws since we were taking them to pre-school. We used toothpicks to spread the food coloring.

Enjoy!!

The Good. The Bad. The Oily.

2011-09-07T05:42:00.009-05:00

It’s funny how we always want something that we don’t have. If we are short, we wish we were taller, If we are blonde, we wish we were brunette, if we have oily skin, we wish it was dry, if we have dry skin, we wish it was oily. The fact is, regardless of how the cards have been dealt, there are advantages and disadvantages to any situation.

For those with oily skin, there is one key advantage…you will not age as quickly as those of us who have more dry skin condition. The disadvantage of having oily skin; however, sometimes over-shadow the benefits of slower aging. The disadvantages of oily skin include increased frequency in acne breakouts, clogged or congested pores, which can result in acne, blackheads or a condition called mila, decreased durability of your foundation and makeup as well as the appearance of enlarged pores.

The treatment of oily skin can be somewhat counter-intuitive. One would think that to treat oily skin, you should use products that dry the skin’s surface, when, in fact, that is the worst thing you can do. Using products that dry the skin’s surface, or over-exfoliating the skin can actually increase oil production, as the body works overtime to supplement the oil that you are scrubbing away. Over stimulating the skin’s oil glands will result in increased oil production and an increase in the likelihood of breakouts or congested pores.

To treat oily skin, here are a few things to remember:

•Use cleansers that are mild, preferably those that don’t contain sulfates, which can dry the skin. The Skinlogics Clear Cleanser, the BC Spa Facial Cleansing Gel and Cleansing Lotion or the Skinlogics Sensitive Cleanser are all appropriate for those with oily skin. Do not wash the face more than 3 times per day. Over-washing the skin can result in increased oil production.
•Use warm to hot water when washing the face. This will help to breakdown the oil so it is removed more effectively.
•A topical scrub is key for keeping the pores cleared and preventing acne breakouts and regulating oil production. Microdermabrasion (on sale this month!!) is a product that is a key part of your weekly skin regimen, but be sure to scrub no more than 3 times per week. Over-scrubbing the skin can contribute to increased oil production.
•Products containing AHAs, PHAs, or salicylic acid (BHAs) are key to breaking down oil production and keeping the pores cleared of debris that can cause the formation of acne blemishes. The BC Spa Facial Tonics, containing AHAs or PHAs, or the Skinlogics Clear Tonic for those with extremely oily skin are all good choices. The BC Spa Resurface Resurfacing Peel (also on sale this month!!) and the Daily Resurfacing Peel are also great additions to your regimen
•A clay-based mask, such as the BC Spa Detox Detoxifying Clay Mask, will both absorb oil and cleanse the pores (see BC Spa Detox and Purify Facial below).
•It is important to note that products DO NOT increase the size of your pores. Your pores are typically enlarged either due to heredity or skin type. Often, when you begin using a regimen that is effectively cleansing the pores, the pores MAY APPEAR to be larger. This is, in fact, an illusion. When the pores are completely clear, they may become temporarily more visible to the naked eye. Frequent and regular use of an effective skin clearing regimen will keep the pores cleared and they will, in time, shrink in size and become less visible.
•Make retinol a part of your regular nighttime regimen. The use of retinol will help normalize both skin cell production and oil production in the skin. Regeneration Overnight (on sale this month) is the PERFECT choice. Upon initial use of the product, you may notice that your skin appears to be dry and/or flakey, and you may experience some temporary mild topical irritation. This is not a bad thing. With regular and consistent use, the irritation and temporary dryness will be eliminated and you will be left with beautifully radiant skin. To help decrease the risk of irritation, begin using a retinol products every other night and allow the skin to adjust before making it part of your nighttime regimen.
•Choose moisturizers that are not oil-based. Keep in mind that I didn’t necessarily say “oil-free”. There are some ingredients that are legally and technically classified as “oils”, that are indeed not oily at all. If a product is oil based, you will recognize it within the top 5 ingredients on the ingredient statement.
•Use products that contain topical mattifying ingredients. The Skinlogics Clear Mattifying Moisturizer is a great choice for daytime use to help absorb oil in the skin. Products containing silicones are also very effective in absorbing oil and preventing oil breakthrough during the day. BC Spa Resurface Daily Resurfacing Peel, the Cell Block C Multivitamin Capsules and the Secret Agent Natural Primer are all good choices.
•Use sunscreens sparingly. Yes, we all know that sun protection is key to maintaining youthful skin; however, the draw-back to them is that they can make the skin oilier. Physical barrier sunscreens, containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide work by putting a UV blocking barrier on the skin. This occlusive barrier can cause the skin to be oilier throughout the day. Chemical sunscreens work by penetrating into the skin to absorb UV radiation. These ingredients are typically oilier and can also cause the skin to be oilier. If you have oily skin, use sun protecting moisturizers sparingly…meaning a very small amount. To help reduce that oily feeling, you can apply on top of a product containing silicone as mentioned above or apply on top of a mattifying moisturizer. Many people who have oily skin choose to use a moisturizer without SPF ingredients. The BC Spa Facial Night Cream (also on sale this month!!) is a great AM/PM moisturizer for someone who wants the benefits of anti-aging ingredients in their moisturizer without SPF ingredients.
•Choose a foundation that is oil free. Perfecting Wet/Dry Finish (we can find your perfect shade!!) is a great foundation to choose if you have oily skin. Applied on top of a silicone based product, such as the Secret Agent Natural Primer, Daily Resurfacing Peel or the Cell Block C Multivitamin capsules will help to prolong the wear. Apply by dusting the powder onto the face with a powder brush. This will give you natural coverage and will allow the skin to breathe better than applying with a sponge.
•Oil absorbing Tissues, such as our incredible BeautiControllers, are great for blotting oil during the day. These tissues will not block oil production, but they will absorb the oil on the skin, leaving you shine-free without disturbing your makeup.
•For the occasional blemish, it is always good to keep a targeted spot treatment such as the Skinlogics Clear Spot Treatment Duo. This handy dandy little zit zapper is both portable and highly effective at abbreviating the cycle of a blemish. The gel contains an OTC (over the counter) level of salicylic acid which will help to remove the microscopic covering of the pore and allow the pore to purge toxins as well as offering analgesic benefits to reduce irritation. The lotion side contains a high level of benzoyl peroxide, which is effective at drying the pore. Used in tandem, AM and PM, you will see a dramatic reduction in the breakouts.
BC Spa Detox and Purify Facial:

The Oily Skin Tool Kit:

•A gentle cleanser that is free of sulfates
•Microdermabrasion, used no more than 3 times per week
•BC Spa Resurface, Resurfacing Peel
•BC Spa Detox Clay Masque to deeply cleanse the pores
•BC Spa Facial Tonic, containing either AHAs or PHAs. For extremely oily skin, the Skinlogics Clear tonic, containing salicylic acid
•Skinlogics Clear Mattifying Moisturizer
•BC Spa Facial Night Crème
•Regeneration Overnight
•BC Spa Resurface Daily Resurfacing Peel or Cell Block C Multivitamin Capsules
•Secret Agent Natural Makeup Primer
•Wet/Dry Foundation
•BeautiControllers – oil absorbing tissues
•Skinlogics Clear Spot Treatment Duo

It is very important to remember that people who have oilier skin tend to retain more toxins in the skin. It is not unusual for you to experience breakouts when you start using products that purge the skin’s impurities. When you start using a clay based mask and/or using microdermabrasion, you are increasing the skin’s rate of renewal and purging toxins more quickly. This is a natural process of skin cleansing. If you find that you are breaking out more than you are willing to handle, you can begin by using these products once or twice weekly and increase the frequency as you feel your skin is adjusting.

Happy Labor Day

2011-09-05T12:10:00.002-05:00

We are "laboring" around here. My sweet husband and little boy are helping me vacuum and dust. I took a little break and just wanted to say hey!

Hope you are having a wonderful Labor Day and staying dry!! I am so thankful for all of the rain. We needed it!!

Here is a little money tip. You can usually save some money by paying in full.
Places like daycare, preschool, private school and many other places give you somewhat of a discount if you pay in full!! It never hurts to ask!!

Wedding

2011-09-02T05:07:00.002-05:00

In June a girl I went to high school with got married. She was so sweet to invite T man to the wedding also. He LOVED it. He danced with the flower girl and we had a big night. Katie looked great and everything was gorgeous.
It was great to catch up with my high school guy pals

I found T's great outfit at Ada Kids. If you haven't been there you totally need to go!! They have AWESOME kids clothes and good prices!!

T and me dancing

It begins with the cute flower girl...

With the bride

She tried to kiss T. but he kindly said, "I have a girlfriend, Libby, but thank you though." LOL. Out of the mouth of a babe.

Do You Have What it Takes to Look Young? I Do!

2011-08-31T06:10:00.001-05:00

I love this blog post by our product and development guru Gary Jones and wanted to share it with you!!!

I am always being asked, “Gary, what are your favorite products and why?”. Well, the answer is not really that easy. I love all of our products, so that would be a difficult call. Each product has a very specific purpose. I don’t really think of it in terms of which is my favorite…I think of it in terms of what does my skin need to stay young! So…let me tell you what I consider to be the top anti-aging must haves that no one should be without.

Sunscreen

It is estimated that 85 – 90% of the signs of aging are caused by sun damage, so it makes sense that sunscreen would be at the top of the list of things you need to stave off the aging process. While we all love the glow of a summer tan, the sun can cause some pretty extreme damage to our skin’s DNA that can result in both reversible and irreversible damage. There are 2 types of UV rays that are emitted by the sun:

•UVB rays – these are the ones that cause the skin to burn
•UVA rays – these are the ones that cause the skin to age
The UVB rays cause our skin to burn or tan. They penetrate just under the skin’s surface and the damage can be seen pretty easily. UVA rays, on the other hand, penetrate all the way through the skin and their damage is not obvious to the naked eye. UVA rays are the ones that are responsible for the long-term damage that will manifest itself down the road in the form of sagging skin, lines and wrinkles and age spots.

It is crucial that your sunscreen contain both UVA and UVB protection. Simply keeping the skin from burning does not ensure healthy skin.

Antioxidants

Damage to the skin that is not the result of the sun is caused by oxidation. To put it in very simple terms, think of it like this. Each skin cell is like an apple. The outer coating of the skin cell is pretty durable and will help maintain cellular moisturization and normal cell growth. UV rays act like a knife, jabbing into the apple’s skin. What happens to an apple when the skin is broken? It turns brown! This is the result of oxidation. The same thing happens to your skin. When the UV rays break the outer protection of each skin cell, it causes the skin cell to oxidize and become defective. Antioxidants prevent the process of oxidation and allow the skin cells to “heal” as well as ensure that the damage caused by the sun does not affect the skin’s DNA, resulting in long-term skin damage.

While vitamin C is the most recognizable antioxidant ingredient, it is far from the most effective. It is crucial that your products contain a comprehensive blend of anti-oxidants to ensure that your skin is protected…preventing oxidation AND helping the skin recover from UV exposure.

Chemical AND Physical Exfoliation

The process of repair requires exfoliation…both chemical and physical exfoliation! One, without the other is not as effective.

The skin’s turnover slows as we age. The ONLY way to help make the skin act as it did when we were younger is through the process of exfoliation…both chemical and physical exfoliation. Only when we get rid of surface cells will the body force the production of new skin cells.

Think of it this way…have you ever removed wallpaper from a wall? If you have, you know that it is no easy chore, but, if you are going to do anything to the wall underneath, you have to remove that paper first. You could use sandpaper, but it really just smoothes the surface, it really doesn’t get below the surface of the wallpaper. You could use a scraper, but you will only get the loose, flakey bits and pieces of the wallpaper removed and it takes FOREVER! Luckily, they have this really great stuff that you can spray on top of the wallpaper that kind of melts the paper and causes it to bubble up. After it has done its work, then you can take your scraper and quickly and easily remove that layer of wallpaper to reveal a pristine surface underneath. Are you with me?

Ok, think of your skin the same way. Think of your surface skin cells as a layer of wallpaper. You can use a scraper (Microdermabrasion), but you are only removing what is loose and flaky. Now when you use your chemical exfoliant (either AHAs or PHAs), they loosen the skin’s dead surface and allow you to exfoliate more deeply that you could have without it. Your daily skin care scrub (polyethylene beads) is like the “sandpaper” we talked about above. It smoothes the surface and makes it feel baby smooth, but to really get in there and remove the surface, you need to use something more aggressive such as Microdermabrasion which is designed to shave the skin’s surface for maximum benefits.

Retinol

Retinol is the whole vitamin A molecule, which can be broken down into thousands of smaller components, including “retinoic acid” (also called tretinoin, the active ingredient in Renova and Retin-A). Essentially retinol is just a fancy name for vitamin A; however, it is perhaps the most important vitamin for the appearance of the skin. It is one of the few substances with a small enough molecular structure to penetrate the outer layers of the skin and work to repair the lower layers where collagen and elastin reside. Retinol is vitamin A in its purest and most active form. It penetrates deep into the skin, where it becomes fully operative. Wrinkles and lines are gradually smoothed, moisture and elasticity increase, the complexion glows and the appearance of damage is diminished.

The skin cells have a receptor site that is very accepting of retinoic acid. This relationship between retinoic acid and skin cells allows a type of communication in which the cell is encouraged to function normally and continue regular cell renewal— as opposed to the often misshapen and altered cells associated with the natural aging process.
It now seems clears that retinol is a beneficial cell-communicating ingredient, as well as an antioxidant. In other words, it assists in creating stronger, healthier skin cells and increases the amount of skin-support substances. Retinol has also been shown to help stimulate new collagen production, which is critical in the battle against aging. Thus it has become clear that retinol is a vital component of high quality skincare products, providing visible, long-lasting results.

Peptides

Peptides are bioengineered molecules formed by linking chains of amino acids, the body’s building blocks. These ingredients are readily recognized by the skin and have the ability to be manipulated to penetrate to multiple layers of the skin, and be designed to serve a variety of purposes. Some peptides are engineered to reduce the depth of wrinkles on the face caused by the contraction of muscles of facial expression, especially in the forehead and around the eyes (muscle relaxing). Some are designed to help expedite the production of collagen and elastin in the skin. Some peptides are engineered to help repair the cohesion of the dermis to the epidermis, helping with sagging skin by increasing skin firmness.
Hyaluronic Acid

This ingredient has been called the key to the “fountain of youth”. Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of young, healthy skin, but dramatically diminishes with age and skin damage. The loss of hylauronic acid in the skin can result in skin sagging and loss of elasticity. Because hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the skin, it is easily absorbed and readily accepted into the skin when used as a topical treatment. There are various ways that hyaluronic acid can be used in skin care treatments:

•As a stand-alone ingredient to help increase moisturization and skin firmness
•Hyaluronic Filling Spheres: Hyaluronic Filling Spheres are made of pure hyaluronic acid, the leading product used by dermatologists, plastic surgeons and practitioners of aesthetic medicine to penetrate and fill deep wrinkles that usually appear on foreheads, between eyebrows, on the corners of the mouth and on the cheeks of people who have spent considerable time in the sun.
This anti-wrinkle delivery system is a truly breakthrough alternative to painful injections. Our exclusive filling spheres harness the industry's most natural active ingredient, hyaluronic acid, for high-intensity and rapid action skin smoothing and softening results.

Unlike widely used injection treatments, Hyaluronic Filling Spheres are applied topically to the skin in either emulsion or gel form to smooth away heavy wrinkles. The spheres are initially dehydrated, then fill with water present in the skin itself. This hydration process causes an increase in volume proportional to the microspheres' moisture-retaining capacity, which results in reduced wrinkles.

•Hyala-sponge: Hyala-sponge technology is one of the newest and most effective ways to deliver highly effective key ingredients into the skin in a sustained release delivery. The process of sustained delivery keeps the key ingredients active on the skin for a longer period of time, maximizing their effectiveness. Hyala-sponges are created through a highly technical new process: The hyaluronic acid molecule, a key component of youthful skin, is cross-linked to create “pockets”, much like a sponge, to hold key ingredients. The process of cross-linking creates the hyala-sponge. Each microscopic “sponge” is then filled with the key ingredients that are required to achieve the desired results.
So, with all of that being said…it is pretty obvious what my skin care regimen looks like. These are the products that I absolutely cannot live without:

•BC Spa Facial Defend and Restore daytime moisturizer: This amazing product prevents damage to the skin by offering complete UVA and UVB protection, skin firming peptides and a comprehensive blend of antioxidants to help stop damage before it occurs and help speed skin recovery and immune response.
•Regeneration Overnight: I love this product. In addition to a potent concentration of retinol, this formula contains a combination of eleven key ingredients to protect skin from free radicals, glycation and protein breakdown – in turn preventing further aging. Together, all of these ingredients provide your skin with the best defense system so it can function properly.
•BC Spa Facial Regenerating Tonics: These products contain either Alpha or Poly Hydroxy Acids to help turn over the skin cells more quickly.
•BC Spa Facial Eye Cream: I love a very rich eye cream. This product contains heavy duty moisturizers in addition to a concentrated blend of skin firming peptides and bioactive ingredients to help supplement the skin with the components of youth that are lost as we age.
•Regeneration Tight Firm and Fill: This product contains 3 peptides that relax the expression lines, firm the skin and increase the cohesion of the dermis and epidermis to immediately firm and tighten. This product also contains hyaluronic filling spheres that instantly plump to reduce lines and wrinkles
•Regeneration Tight Firm and Fill Eye Firming Serum: This product contains all the active ingredients of the Tight Firm and Fill face serum , using hyala-sponge technology to ensure that the ingredients are absorbed into the skin and time released for sustained delivery throughout the day.
•BC Spa Resurfacing Peel: I use this product at least 3 times a week. This product contains a 30% acid blend that helps to break down the bonds that hold dry, dead skin cells to the surface of the skin. I have never used a more gentle, yet more effective chemical peel product…and I have tried them all. I always follow my Resurfacing Peel treatment with…
•BC Spa Microdermabrasion: This product utilized the same aluminum oxide crystals used by dermatologists to remove dead skin and resurface the skin’s texture without the high price tag! I can’t imagine anyone being without this product.
You will always find these products in my bathroom or my travel bag…and I never leave home without them.

Check out all of BeautiControl's fabulous products here.

Washer and Dryer

2011-08-29T06:53:00.004-05:00

I recently read, I went back to try and find where and exactly what I read and couldn't find it, where you shouldn't run your washing machine and dryer between the hours of 2-6 p.m. CST during the summer. Since I couldn't find the exact article, here is what I took away from it....
Don't run your washer and dryer between these hours because that is when it is typically the hottest in your house because of the sun.
By not running these applicances during those times the heat doesn't build up in your house and make your air kick on and have to work that much harder.
Air not working as hard to cool your house = lower power bill!!!

How did this happen?

2011-08-26T10:15:00.008-05:00

How did it happen that my "baby" boy (okay he's 4 but he will always be my baby) is now in preschool?!?!

I cried the first day, when I go back to the car by myself. It was all worth it when I picked up that smiling little face and he told me how much fun he had!!

Here is by "baby" boy on the first day about to go into his classroom...

Finding his name to choose his activity...

Completed first day...

His hands are his sunglasses...

Ready for Day 2...

W.H.O.

2011-08-24T06:50:00.003-05:00

W.H.O.'s Gorgeous Collection
Pretty with a purpose
$1 from every purchase goes to benefit the W.H.O. Foundation

W.H.O.'s Gorgeous Eau de Toilette #18706 $30

W.H.O.'s Gorgeous Nail Lacquer #18182 $10

W.H.O.'s Gorgeous Lip Gloss #16730 $16

Never heard of BeautiControl? Check it out here.

Checking off the list

2011-08-19T07:15:00.003-05:00

We have been checking things off of this list that I posted earlier...

We only have 8 things left (okay, I know summer is technically over but we are going to finish them very soon)!!

We checked the library off last week!!
T loved it and enjoyed the craft...

I am doing better on letting him have artistic freedom. I like things a certain way but it is only one way,my way. It is okay if T's art ways aren't my ways. T's art projects/crafts can look just like they want because they are his after all!!

This is one of my favorite songs right now and wanted to share it with you....

Hope you have a wonderful Friday and a FaBuLoUs weekend!!!

I LOVE BeautiControl

2011-08-17T06:06:00.001-05:00

Check out these earrings!! Aren't they awesome?!?! You can have a pair too!!
Comment to find out how you can get them!! These beautiful blue, green and gold earrings were created for BeautiControl by celebrity jewelry designer R.J. Graziano!!

BeautiControl offers fabulous gifts just for doing your job!! I love BeautiControl and the friendships it has helped me make.

Look what you get for FREE when you have a fun girls night with 6-8 of you girlfriends in August and your sales are $500+ and we have 2 spa bookings!!!

Don't you LOVE BeautiControl too?!?!

Library

2011-08-15T07:54:00.001-05:00

If you have been reading my blog for long, you know that I don't buy many books but love to read. I am a big fan of the library. Not only does checking books out from the library save money it also saves space.
Here are some books I have read lately and the price they are new from Amazon....

Heaven is For Real by Todd Burpo- a sweet friend let me borrow, $8.49 paperback

Making Money at Home by Donna Partow, (a book by Focus on the Family)- my sweet mom let me borrow, $8.43 paperback

Be All you Can Be by John Maxwell- checked out from the library, $11.55 hardcover

Time Power by Brian Tracy- checked out from the library, $9.94 hardcover

Women of the Bible Study Book 1 (my Women's Bible Study did this)- I did purchase this one, $14 paperback at a local store

Reading Now/Next...

The Help by Kathryn Stockett- gift I received for Christmas, $13.72 hardcover

Be a People Person by John Maxwell- checked out from the library, $11.55 hardcover

Rework by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, $12.27 hardcover

Becoming a Woman of Extraordinary Faith by Julie Clinton- (my Women's Bible Study is doing this)- $13 paperback at a local store

So this is a total of 9 books. I have paid $27 to read 9 books!! That's $3 a book!!
The total of these books on Amazon.com and the two I purchased locally is $102.95.
That is $75.95 I have saved!! (This number doesn't include tax and/or shipping if applicable). Plus that's 7 books I don't have to find a home for in our house!!

I hope this helps you save your family some money and space!!!

ZOO

2011-08-12T10:07:00.007-05:00

In June, Addie, L, T and I headed to the zoo. I found a Groupon for 4 for either $35or $36 dollars (I can't remember the exact amount now). This included admission to the zoo for 4, 4 rides on the horses and a ride for 4 on the train.

Tigers...

T and L LOVED these maps, LOL, who would have guessed

Mr. T LOVED the spider web but Miss L wasn't to impressed and wanted to swing intead. If that isn't all boy and all girl.

Horse rides

In the cave looking at the elephants

Lion

These birds were just walking around and of course T had to chase them

Just a little hot and tired but ready for the train ride

My personal favorite the Jaguar!! I just love the way they look!!

It was a fun day with friends!!

The Latest

2011-08-10T07:49:00.017-05:00

BeautiControl has taken the guess work out of choosing the best colors for your wardrobe and your makeup!!

Coco Chanel summed it up perfectly decades ago when she said, “The best color in the whole world is the one that looks good…ON YOU”.

Tyra Banks said, “I love the confidence makeup gives me.”

And Lana Turner, a beauty icon, said, “I would rather lose a good earring than be caught without makeup.”

Heck, even the great Marilyn Monroe once said, “If you’re going to be 2-faced, at least make one of them pretty”.

So … we know using color cosmetics is a good idea, as long as you’re confident with your choices.

There’s a science to choosing just the right makeup colors and look for each woman, and now BeautiControl can use technology to help guide color and style choices just for you.

There are two parts to eBeauti: eColor and eStyle. You can take both quizzes right
here. The quiz will ask you questions about your coloring and style preferences, then create a personalized profile for you at the end.

Let’s start with eColor. This is an amazing program that factors in hair color, complexion, eye color and preferences to create an eColor profile. The quiz pinpoints an overall color palette and then makes color cosmetic recommendations not only right then but every time you shop on my site.

After taking the quiz, your client will land in one of four categories:

Subtle Cool

Intense Cool

Subtle Warm

Intense Warm

Now, here are some familiar faces who would fall into these categories. We didn’t have to look any further than Wisteria Lane to find our 4 color seasons:

First, Intense Warm

Now let’s take a look at a woman who falls into the Intense Cool category

Now, let’s take a look at the Subtle Warm spectrum

And finally, here’s a look at a familiar faces whose eColor profile would read Subtle Cool

The quiz is quick, simple, it just takes a few minutes. It’s available 24 / 7 here.
Once you complete the eColor quiz every time you visit my site there will be a BeautiPrint icon next to the color products that are a match for your profile.

There is a science to choosing the best colors to compliment your individual skin coloring. All too often, women make wrong choices in both their wardrobe and cosmetic color selections based on what is “on trend” for the season. There are so many women that feel “made up” when they use makeup. Often, the issue is not with using makeup…the issue is choosing the wrong colors. When you choose colors that contrast your skin’s natural coloring, it can look unnatural and overly made up. When you choose colors that blend with your skin’s coloring, rather than fighting with your skin’s coloring, your makeup will look natural and highlight your features…even when using bolder shades.

Here are some great examples of some of the world’s most photographed women in shades of clothing and makeup that are right and wrong for their coloring. I have put the "wrong" pictures on the left, and the "right" pictures on the right. It is easy to see how the right colors bring out a youthful vibrancy and glow to the skin, and actually make them look younger.

Fashion is fleeting … but style is who you are.

Like eColor, eStyle it’s a short interactive quiz that leads you to your style for both fashion and makeup application techniques.

Taking the eStyle quiz includes answering questions about preferences and the styles you’re drawn to. Your answers are analyzed and sorted in seconds to put you into one of four style categories:

Naturally Chic – this woman is comfortable in her own skin without a lot of glitz and glamour. She can get ready in a flash and doesn’t agonize over what’s in her closet – she’ll make it work.

Dramatically Glam – Her makeup makes a statement. She’s always high fashion and ready to step out. This woman loves to experiment with color and fashion – if it’s not in her closet, she wants it … and it will be!

Irresistibly Romantic – Lace and ruffles don’t define the woman, but she’s all girl. She loves florals and soft textures … her silhouette is always feminine. She’s very sentimental … her closet smells of sachet and is filled with her favorites.

Perfectly Polished – Her makeup is flawless just like her skin. She exudes confidence in her choices and she wears them well. Her closet is full of beautifully cut jackets, tailored pants and skirts, totally classic and timeless.

eBeauti provides fresh and useful information to you.

Is eBeauti a cool new tool? You bet it is! Does it, once again, set BeautiControl apart and show off our technological know how? You bet it does.
You won’t find this kind of personalized service anywhere else.

Thank you to Gary Jones BC's product and development guru for all of the pictures!!

Save $15 and free shipping

2011-08-08T07:31:00.002-05:00

Right now when you purchase $75 plus from BeautiControl (aka me) you will save $15!!! You can order from my website here. After adding items to your cart, if you select for me to fill the order and you don't live near me I ship it for FREE!!! I also deliver for FREE if you are near me. Looking forward to serving you!!!

Don't forget to check out eBeauti while you're there to see your fashion personality and colors that look the best on you!!

Family Friday...Sand Dollars and a Seahorse

2011-08-05T12:31:00.014-05:00

MeMe, aka my Mother-in-law, was so sweet to purchase T a subscription to Your Big Backyard.
As I have said before I AM very artistically/craftsy challenged. Thankfully though Your Big Backyard gives you a pattern. (My kind of craft!!) Check it out here.
Thanks to the pattern and step by step instructions, T and I got to work on his sea horse.
After 3 days, yes you read that correctly, we finished it. Poor T, his mommy gets overwhelmed with crafts and has to take them step by step plus we had to purchase the googly eyes because we didn't have any in our craft stash. LOL.

T with his Seahorse!!!

The orange color is T's coral and the green is his seaweed.

For dinner, one night this week, we had Sand Dollar Pancakes!! Again, this is an idea from Your Big Backyard to go along with the aquatic theme in the August 2011 issue.
T LOVED helping make the pancakes!! We put a thin layer of cream cheese on top and a toothpick to draw on the sand dollar design.

Here is the finished product...
Can you tell which sand dollar T drew and which one I drew?

T with the finished product

Please know that my child had more than pancakes for dinner. He also had fruit and turkey bacon they just weren't on his frisbee (plate) yet.

Have a great weekend and I'll "see" you on Monday.

Botox in a jar for your eyes!!

2011-08-03T05:08:00.003-05:00

It's botox in a jar for your eyes without the pain and down time!!
Plus, it's on sale right now!!!

Lightweight serum that works immediately to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin under the eyes and on the eyelids.

Key Benefits:
• HylaSponge technology maximizes effectiveness.
• Peptide blend creates an optimal environment for the skin to naturally produce collagen and elastin.
• Microcrystalline matrix tightens skin appearance.

Check it out here. While your there Discover your TRUE colors.... visit my website and click eBeauti

Wipes Container

2011-08-01T07:31:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered is there something I could use this container for? For instance, I no longer need baby wipes but I hate to throw the containers in the land field and yes I do and could recycle them but it just seems like they could be used for something else. I was reading a magazine or blog or something and they use their old baby wipe containers to organize there grocery bags. If you read my post here, you know I need something to orgaznize my grocery bags. The wipe containers have helped organize under the sink greatly!!!

How will you put this container to work?

AquaPalooza

2011-07-29T05:58:00.005-05:00

Last Saturday we headed to Lake Martin for AquaPalooza with the Lamberths!!
We enjoyed the sunshine and live music at Kowaliga Beach!!

We didn't go the entire time as we were afraid the kids would be worn out. We did make it in time to see Rhett Akins and Sawyer Brown. To see all the artist that day go here.

The Lamberths also took us on a boat ride before the concert.
L and T and on the boat

We enjoyed a little skiing...my hubby skiing

T and L

Excuse the no makeup, it was a lazy lake day, LOL
So glad the Sullivans were there too

Can you find my hubby in the water?

Me and My handsome hubby

The Magic of Regeneration Tight Firm and Fill

2011-07-27T06:18:00.010-05:00

What an amazing year of product introductions this has been. The new BC Spa Facial products, combined with the incredible new fragrances, color products and other additions to our specialty line are just a few of the reasons that BeautiControl continues to be one of the most compelling cosmetic companies in this industry.

Even with all the new, and ultra-exciting to our line in the past few years, there are still some of those tried-and-true client favorites that continue to build client loyalty and offer those "BeautiControl Results" that our client love.

BeautiControl is, without a doubt, a company that has paved a path in the anti-aging skin care market.

One product, as a matter of fact, stands out year after year as our #1 selling product...Regeneration Tight Firm and Fill. We have literally sold millions and millions of this one single product. The closest competitive products on the market would literally cost 3 times the price of our TFF at full price.

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Regeneration® Tight, Firm & Fill Face Creme represents the next generation of cosmetic dermal fillers for an immediate and long-lasting reduction in the appearance of wrinkles. BeautiControl’s most advanced age-intervening treatment dares to do the work of expensive injections without the pain, swelling or downtime.

Our triple-action patent-pending peptide complex

•TIGHT
Immediately stimulates the epidermis to reinforce the cohesion of the dermal-epidermal junction

•FIRM
Peptides create an optimal environment for the skin to naturally produce collagen, the skin’s building blocks of youth.

•FILL
Instantly plumps and fills wrinkles with revolutionary Hyaluronic Filling Spheres®
The results
The results* After 4 weeks After 8 weeks
Visibly tighter and firmer skin 100% 100%
Increased skin elasticity and resilience 94% 100%
Improved skin radiance and luminosity 94% 100%
Improved skin hydration and suppleness 97% 97%
Fine lines appeared less visible 84% 90%

*Percent indicated is based on evaluations by clinical experts who perceived a visible difference when participants used as directed.

Check out TFF Face here.

$5 Movie

2011-07-25T07:20:00.004-05:00

Did you know that from 4-5:30 everyday you can go to the movie theater for $5 each? That is cheaper that the matinee!! At least here you can so check your local movie theater's website to make sure. Also, you can get a rewards card that you swipe everytime you pay for your movie and get anything at the concession stand. It is figured by the dollar amount you spend and you can eventually get a free movie ticket. We don't go to the movie very often so I haven't figured out all the details yet.

Last week T went to see Cars 2 with his girlfriend L (the $5 movie). Don't worry, both mommies were there so they were well supervised.

Cars 2 was cute. The kids and mommies enjoyed it!!!

Fire Station

2011-07-22T07:28:00.004-05:00

We had a great time going to the fire station with our Mommies Group!! I will let the pictures speak for the fun we had...

Of course my child and his buddy found the one thing John Deere at the fire station. LOL!!

He made his own sunglasses since we left his in the car...

T and his buddy heading to lunch!!

Thank you to the firemen who were so kind to have our mommies goup invade their station!!!

Don't Let the Sun Keep You In Shade This Summer!

2011-07-20T05:37:00.000-05:00

Everyone loves summer! Whether it is time away from school, summer vacations or just those long, hot summer days, it seems like summer is the season to be outdoors. No matter what part of the country you live, the fact is that today’s summer sun is not the same sun as it used to be. With the decreasing ozone layer and increased air pollution, the UV index is at an all time high. All of these factors combined can wreak havoc on your skin, causing damage to your skin. While we all know we should avoid getting burned, we don’t always take into consideration the invisible damage that takes place under the surface of the skin, the skin you can’t see. The problem with this type of damage is that even though it affects the skin you can’t see today, it is causing damage to the skin you will see in the future. For this reason, I thought we would take a few minutes to review some summer sun tips and facts as well as some other summer product tips to help increase your sales during these summer months.

First, it is important to explain exactly why we have an increased need for skin protection during the summer months. There are several factors that contribute to skin damage. The most obvious, of course, is the sun. Less obvious contributors to damage include excessive pollution, reduction in skin hydration and exposure to chemicals such as chlorine, insect repellant, etc.

The sun provides many nutritional benefits that get overshadowed by all the negative media regarding skin cancer. Striking a healthy balance between solar-phobe and sun worshiper is key to keeping your entire system running as it should. The value of the sun would include the production of Vitamin D, a glowing suntan and general feeling of well-being would be a few.   The sun’s energy travels here via ultra violet radiation and comes in three types: UVA, UVB and UVC. Ultraviolet rays are most intense during the hours of 10am and 4pm.

UV wavelengths are very small and penetrate our flesh and change the structure of our skin cells. UVC has the shortest wavelengths and is extremely dangerous. Fortunately for us, it is completely absorbed by the Earth’s upper atmosphere. Unfortunately, both UVA and UVB can cause damage to our skin cells and DNA if caution is not taken when exposing our skin to the sun.

Think of UVA rays as the “aging” rays.

Think of UVB rays as the “burning” rays.

While we all know to avoid a sunburn, we don’t always realize that UVA rays can cause the most dangerous invisible forms of damage. The trouble with these types of rays is that we don’t always take appropriate precaution from them if we don’t consider ourselves sun-lovers. Driving in your car or sitting near a window are potential examples of the damage that we don’t think about. This is the reason that a daily application of sun protection is necessary to protect the skin.

Skin color begins down in the deepest level of your epidermis, where special cells called "melanocytes" live. These melanocytes are cells, with many arms that reach up into the upper levels of the skin cells. Melanocytes make a dark chemical called "melanin". Now here's something really interesting - a blonde Scandinavian has roughly the same number of melanocytes in their skin, as a black African. What gives the different skin color is the way that a person’s body processes the melanin within the skin.

Melanin is the body’s own sunscreen, so it is rational to see why the darker a person’s skin, or the easier a person can tan, the more resistant a person is to sun damage. The lighter a person’s skin, and the easier a person burns, shows a distinct intolerance to the sun. Since melanin is the body’s natural sun protection, it makes sense to know that a freckle is actually a cluster of potentially vulnerable skin cells that have been surrounded by melanin as a means of skin protection. The more freckles a person has, the more susceptible a person is to skin damage.

I have to also interject this fact into the equation – tanning beds do not offer a safe alternative to a natural suntan. The same rays that tan your skin in the sunlight, are the same rays that tan your skin in a tanning bed. If you should choose to take this route, you should use the same level of protection that you would choose if you were in the sun.

So, with that out of the way, let’s discuss the types of sun protection available today.

Sunscreens come in two forms – chemical sunscreens and physical sunscreens. 

•Chemical Sunscreen: A chemical sunscreen, works by chemically absorbing UV rays. Some chemical sunscreens absorb ONLY UVB rays and some absorb only UVA rays. In formulations with chemical sunscreens, multiple forms of sunscreen ingredients are used to offer both UVA and UVB protection.
•Physical Sunscreen: A physical sunscreen works by deflecting UVA and UVB rays. Titanium or Zinc oxide are the most commonly used physical compounds that provide a physical block on the skin to prevent UVA and UVB exposure. Unlike chemical sunscreens, physical sunscreens deflect the light and prevent the absorption of any UV rays into the skin, which is one of the reasons that we use physical block sunscreens in our BC Spa facial and Cell Block C formulas.
The bottom line is sunshine on your skin in moderate doses is very healthy. We should bask in the sun every single day. Remember if you want to lay out for longer periods work yourself up to it first. Don't be afraid of the sun! The sun heals wounds, improves skin tone and complexion, helps rid acne, and even diminishes the appearance of scars, cellulite and stretch marks. With the proper precautions, and the use of your BC Spa Facial moisturizers, and our incredible Skinlogics Lip Balm SPF 20, you can enjoy the sun without the risk of skin damage.

Check out BeautiControl's Sun care here.

Trash Bags

2011-07-18T06:48:00.000-05:00

I hate buying trash bags. Why? Because you throw them away. I feel like they are just a waste of money. I hate smelling the trash so I like to take it out every day or every other day. That adds up to even more waste because I would end up with a only a half full bag when it was time to take it out.

Growing up, my dad put on of these on the inside kitchen cabinet door for my mom.

My sweet, handy husband made one for the inside of our kitchen cabinet door.

I love that I can use grocery store bags for trash bags and save money that way and have another use for the plastic bags!!

In my post a while back from a grocery shoping trip, you will see trash bags in that picture. I purchased these for clean up in Alabama after the tornadoes. I didn't keep these. Just didn't want you to think I was saying one thing and doing another.

Checking it Off

2011-07-15T05:54:00.003-05:00

We have been busy checking things off of our Summer To Do List!! Last week we went to the $1 movie and T was one lucky man. He watched the movie and went to lunch with these 2 precious girls!!

We also celebrated Grand's birthday!! We enjoyed spending the day with her and going to lunch!!!

T wanted to play with the train...

We love you Grand!!!
Off to have some more summer fun!!!

Save 20%

2011-07-13T05:54:00.016-05:00

BeautiControl Mineral Eyeshadows

Mineral Blushes

Lip Perfecting Pencils

Brow Perfecting Pencils

Brow Kits

Liquid Eyeliners

Tinted Moisturizers

Bronzers

Regeneration Tight Firm and Fill Concealers

ALL 20% off unitl July 21st!!! Check all the colors and prices here.

Cut it up

2011-07-11T10:16:00.005-05:00

When something is running out do you throw it away? Do you squeeze the last drop out? Do you cut it open?

As you can see I cut it open!!! I have gotten usually a week or more extra use out by cutting things open.
Of course you always want to place the product on its top, place where product come out. Like the baby lotion I will place on it's top when it starts running low. Lots of products are already on their tops, like the two other items above, but if not place them on their to get the product to the bottom before you cut it open.

If you are going to cut it open, make sure you are going to use it pretty quickly so it doesn't dry out.
Also, cut the top piece big enough that it will slide over the bottom part to keep the product from drying out.

I hate being wasteful so this is a way I have found to get all the goody out!!
Happy Cutting to get more for your money and not be wasteful!!

Summer Swing

2011-07-08T05:33:00.013-05:00

We have enjoyed going to Summer Swing. We have only been twice but we had a blast!!! I forgot my camera the first time that we went so I had to take pictures with my phone. My husband grew up listening to Neil Diamond, my father in-law still listens to it in his truck, so I knew he would enjoy the Neil Diamond impersonator. T taking a break from the playground so I could snatch a picture The wonderful Neil Diamond impersonator. Y'all, he sounded just like Neil. This is our favorite song by Neil Diamond....

The next time we went to see Route 66. One of the singers and bass player was Dr. Smith, he delivered T. Route 66 was great!!! They certainly didn't disappoint!! They played a wide genra of music from Michael Buble to Zac Brown Band and Wild Cherry. They offered a little something for everyone. We saw the Chick-fil-a cow the second time we went!! My 2 boys Dancing and Singing up a storm...pretty sure he was playing the air guitar here...

Tropical Getaway

2011-07-06T10:28:00.006-05:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July celebrating our freedom!!
So sorry I missed you on Monday but am back in full swing!!

Dreaming of a tropical escape even though you have returned from vacation? Let the ligth, refreshing fragrance take you away with invigorating notes of citrus, mango and guave mixed with delicious coconut, jasmine and vanilla!!

I have a few dates left in July to help you and your friends create a Tropical Getaway to home!! Let me know if you need BeautiControl in your life!!

I am so excited my hostesses can receive these in July..

What are you waiting for? Lets plan your Tropical Getaway with friends today!!!

Summer To Dos

2011-07-01T09:39:00.029-05:00

My friend Addie, shared this great idea on her blog here and I knew T would love doing this too!!!
You can so tell I lack artistic ability from the lack of decoration
on our list. Doing 2 colors stretched my artistic muscle enough (I didn't want
to make it too girly since it's for my little man).
Slowly maybe my ability (or lack there of) will get better!!

We have already marked several off since this picture was taken!! Plus we added
two more per T's request...Herb Garden and Yogurt Mountain.
Here's a closer look...

Here are two things we've already done...
1. Pillowcase
T does good sleeping in his bed (for the most part) but there are those occasional nights where he wakes up and comes in our room. He is like me and doesn't like the dark so I can relate more than my hubby can. I saved this idea from ParentLife in February 2009. It's like the Lord knew I would need this and told me to save it. I took the basic idea of the Family Garden below. I thought it looked a little too feminine for T so we just did each of our hands. Thanks to my friend Nikki for sharing this verse, Psalm 4:8 with me. I was going to use Joshua 1:9 put this verse was even more perfect.
Finished product

T with the finished product

2. Frog Legs

The climb up

The blur down

He must have thought he was still at the beach!!

T and new friend B

Have a safe and happy 4th!! Thank you Lord for the free country we live in!! Please don't turn your back on America even though it turns farther and farther from You God.

Sale Ending

2011-06-29T05:49:00.001-05:00

Hurry before the W.H.O. (BeautiControl's philanthropy- Women Helping Others) sale ends!! Great way to save money and help raise money for the W.H.O. foundation

Here are some sets that are on sale....

Instant Face Lift Set
Set includes BC Spa Resurface Multi-Acid Resurfacing Peel, BC Spa Resurface Microderm® Abrasion for Face, Regeneration® Tight, Firm & Fill® Face Creme, Regneration® Tight, Firm & Fill® Eye Firming Serum and Facial Buffer.
Sale: $187.00
Regular Price: $208.00

Margarita Set
Margarita Set includes Salty Foot Scrub, Creamy Body Lotion, Frozen Foot Creme and Tangy Lip Balm.

SALE $56.50
Regularly $64.00

For a complete list click here.

Want free shipping? Order directly from me and I will mail to you at no additional cost!! Or, you can order online if that is easiest for you!!

Gas

2011-06-27T06:34:00.004-05:00

I am thankful gas prices are falling. Any money you can save at the pump is always good. I hate paying more for gas at one station and then finding it cheaper at another. I just feel like it's the same product so why pay more. My hubs teases me about saving even just a few cents but I love the quote about you don't have the dollars because you didn't count your pennies. I can't remember who said that but it is so true.

In the Sunday USA weekend incert it shared ways to save on gas.

It listed a website www.gaspricewatch.com but it must work the best in bigger cities because I couldn't find anything in our area. However, gasbuddy.com is very helpful!!

Another tip it gave for saving money at the pump was look for gas stations with cash discounts.

Also, stations not affiliated with major chains can be less expensive because they buy from many sources.

Lastly, check your tire pressure. Underinflation by just 3 psi (pounds per square inch) can burn 1% extra fuel.

Check out these old gas pumps....

I love the color!!

Berries

2011-06-24T07:47:00.009-05:00

In April we picked strawberries with our mommies group. We have been to this strawberry farm before but T was much younger. He enjoyed it so much this time. He enjoyed picking the berries and loved running down the rows. I was very pleased that we left with a gallon bucket for $9 (not only was it fun but it saved money too). We enjoyed eating the strawberries by themselves, in our yogurt, trying new recipes and we still had enough to freeze.
Our time in the strawberry patch..

Then at the first of June we went to a blueberry patch with our mommies group. We picked about 3/4 of a gallon and paid $9. It was lots of fun and you can't beat that price.

Blueberry cobbler is on the menu for tonight!!!

Need to cool off from the heat?

2011-06-22T05:57:00.000-05:00

Need to cool off from the heat? Check this out...

Herbal Hydrating Mist is scientifically advanced to help restore your skin's tone and elasticity when used as part of your morning and evening regimen. Lightly spritz over makeup for a daytime refresher.

I like to put it in my cooler and take it to the beach or pool with me!!!

Plus as part of W.H.O. (BeautiControl's philanthropy- Women Helping Others) month Hydrating Mist is on SALE!!!
Check it out on my Beautipage here.

Online shopping

2011-06-20T05:49:00.004-05:00

Do you shop online? Do you know about ebates? It is a great site that gives you a percentage back on your purchase. I LOVE it!!! If you decide to join, please link up under this offer as I will get a referal bonus. http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=DyyROBymB1269030nudUGw%3D%3D

Also, if you have charter telephone, cable or internet did you know you can join live it with charter and earn points everytime you pay your bill? I don't know why charter doesn't just automatically sign you up but anyway...there are some pretty good prizes on there. Check it out at www.liveitwithcharter.com

I recently finished the book Well-Being for Dummies that I got free in the mail (I can't remember how).
Pretty intersting book talking about your body, finances and life in general. I am now going to try and sell it on-line. Next weeks post will talk more about where I sell my books once I am finished with them and don't want to keep them.

Father's Day Ideas

2011-06-17T14:35:00.021-05:00

Y'all know I love Martha Stewart and her ideas!!! I am not creative but am using Martha's help to get my Martha Stewartist on.

For Father's Day I wanted to do something that T could help me with. I found a Nuts and Bolts mix in her May 2011 (I think) issue. My Dad, husband and father in-law are all very handy/fix it themselves men so I thought this was the perfect fit!!

Check out the recipe here. You can get the clip art here.

I purchased the containers from the Container Store (I had to order them online) but I signed up for the Container Store e-mails before I purchased them and received an e-mail!!! I saved at least 10% maybe 20% (can't remember now how much the coupon was for) by doing this!! Lots of stores do this!!
I purchased self-adhesive paper at Hobby Lobby (40% off coupon) for less than $3 for a pack of 5 sheets.
T loved helping make their (one for the hubs, my dad and father in-law) gifts...

T shaking up the mix..

Ready to bake...

T with the finished product. Please excuse the big boy pants, we had just finished playing in little pool in our backyard while the mix finished.

Then we used clip-art labels from Martha to put on the front of cards. T wanted to make them cards and draw them pictures so we made our own. Check out the cute clip-art here.

Happy Father's Day to my wonderful Dad. He has always been so encouraging and supportive of everything I did/do. He is also a wonderful grandfather to my little boy.
Happy Father's Day to my wonderful husband. He is such a patient man and balances out my high strung ways by being so laid back. He is a very hard worker and provides for our family so well. He is a wonderful father and spends countless hours playing in the floor wrestling with T and playing anything else T asks him too. The hubs has another gift for Father's Day too but just in case he reads the blog I'll keep it a secret for now.
Happy Father's Day to my wonderful father in-law. He did a wonderful job of teaching my husband how to work hard and provide. He taught him how to be a true southern gentleman as well. My FIL also has lots of helpful, practical advice he shares too.
I am so thankful all 3 of these men are Men of God and are helping shape T into a man just like them!!

Be Kind to Your Feet

2011-06-15T05:48:00.008-05:00

I read a great little article in the USA Weekend a few weeks ago about your feet and wanted to share these little tidbits.

Take protective steps.
You always put sunscreen on your face, arms and legs but do you do the same for you ankles, toes and soles? Skin cancer can occur on any unprotected part of your body and experts say melanoma of the foor and ankel is prevalent.

Skip flip-flops on most days. (this is hard in the south)
Research shows flip-flops can be painfully bad for your feet. If flip-flops can fold in half, they're not sturdy enough. Investigators at AUBURN UNIVERSITY (yes you read that right) foudn that when people walk in the thong-style versions, they change your gait, which can result in foot, ankle and leg pain. They're fine in moderation just make sure to chose a sturdy pair with cushioning and arch support and replace them at the first signs of wear and tear.

Keep feet dry.
About 1/3 of Americans have sweaty, smelly feet. Air out sweety shoes before waering them again and chose naturaol or syntheitc blend socks that wick away moisture.

If your feet need a little more TLC check out the BeautiControl Pedicure Set here Hurry before the sale price ends in ONLY 2 more weeks!!!

Saving at Checkout

2011-06-13T19:09:00.002-05:00

I love coupons!!! Did you know you can add them to your shoppers card?
I love Kroger and if you go to Kroger.com you can add coupons onto your Kroger card!! There is even a print button so you can take your list with you of the coupons you have added to your card.

You can also add coupons to your card(s) at cellfire.com.
Smartsource.com and Coupons.com have coupons ready to print out!!!

The rules recently changed and you can not use a paper coupon and a coupon loaded on your card. The coupon loaded on your card trumps your paper coupon even if the paper one you would have saved more money.

My philosophy is every little bit helps!! A penny saved is a penny earned!!
Happy saving!!!

Summer Fun

2011-06-10T05:48:00.012-05:00

A few weeks ago, our church had a MOM 2 MOM event at a local park.
T is getting so big and turning into a little boy everyday. He was very excited to do the big slide by himself.

T had a ball with his friend ME

Ready for a ride on the train Mr. John (our children's minister) rented for the morning.

Thank you Mr. John for a fun time at the park.

I love to try new recipes (I try to do 1-2 a week) and since we went strawberry picking not too long ago I have lots of strawberries to use. In Martha Stewart's latest issue, I found a Strawberry-Lemonade Icebox Pie. That just screams southern summer.

This is the first time I have made my own crust. I know next time to not make it so thick on the top and not come up so high. Live and learn..LOL.
Mine (picture from my cell)...Not quite Martha but I'm working on it...

Martha's pie...

Here's the recipe...enjoy!!
Strawberry-Lemonade Icebox Pie
Active time: 45 mins. Total Time: 6 hours
Makes: one 9-inch pie, Serves 8 to 10

For the Crust
Vegetable oil cooking spray
9 to 10 graham crackers, broken into pieces
¼ cup sugar
Coarse Salt
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
⅔ cup strained fresh lemon juice (from 4 lemons)
2 large egg yolks (reserve whites for meringue),
plus 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Coarse Salt

The meringue topping is just right for the tangy, cool lemon filling
(and provides a way to use the whites from the separated eggs).
You can easily skip it in favor of whipped cream.
For the Topping
12 ounces strawberries, sliced (2 cups)
¾ cup sugar
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
3 large egg whites, room temperature (2 reserved from filling)

1. Preheat oven to 375º. Make the crust: Coat a 9-inch pie plate
with cooking spray. Pulse crackers in a food processor until finely
ground; measure 1⅓ cups, and discard excess. Pulse cracker crumbs,
sugar and ¼ teaspoon salt in food processor to combine. Add butter,
and pulse until mixture is moist and holds together when pressed
between 2 fingers.

2. Press crust evenly into bottom and up sides of pie plate using the bottom
of a dry measuring cup. (Make sure the sides and rim of the crust firmly
pressed so they don’t crumble when pie gets cut.) Freeze for 30 minutes.

3. Bake crust until firm and turning dark around edges, 10-11 minutes.
Remove from oven and reduce oven temperature to 325º.

4. Meanwhile, make the filling: whisk together condensed milk, lemon
juice, egg yolks and egg, and ¼ teaspoon salt.

juice, egg yolks and egg, and ¼ teaspoon salt.

5. Pour filling into warm piecrust. Bake until center is set, 25-30 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at
least 3 hours.

6. Make the topping: sprinkle berries with 2 tablespoons sugar and the
lemon juice. Let stand for 30 minutes.

7. Meanwhile, heat egg whites and remaining ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
in the heat-proof bowl of a mixer set over a pan of simmering water until
sugar dissolves and mixture is warm to the touch, 2-3 minutes. Transfer to
mixer and whisk on high speed until medium peaks form, 8-9 minutes.

8. Spoon berries over pie. Spoon meringue over top. Place pie under broiler,
with rack in lowest position, until meringue is just browned. Alternatively,
use a kitchen torch to brown the top.

Make ahead…pie can be refrigerated overnight. Make meringue and berry topping
just before serving.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!!
This is one of my favorite songs right now....

Lord I need you like a burning flame...I'm only Yours now.

Skinny Butt Solution

2011-06-08T05:21:00.004-05:00

Did you realize that BeautiControl has an Instant Body Lift Solution? (an answer to prayer).

Are you ready for your SWIMSUIT and/or Short? Two products used twice daily yielded these amazing results...BC Spa Sculping Gel & BC Spa Firming Body Creme! We affectionately call this duo "The Skinny Butt Treatment!" Message me if you too would like a "Skinny Butt" for Summer!! Works on Arms, Thighs and Tummy's too!!

Regularly $77......with 10% off W.H.O. sale...$69 in June ONLY!!!
Get them here on sale!!!

Check out the testimony below from Fellow BC Spa Sisters!! WOW!!

A fellow consultant said her Mom Swears it eats the fat off her tummy!! Check out the testimony below from a Fellow BC Spa Sister!! WOW!!
"This is the grosses thing I have ever shown...but I just couldn't ke...ep it to myself! I had lap band surgery in May 2010 and since then I have lost 76 pounds! Yah Me!! But because I lost the weight so fast....I also lost all the tone and ...muscle in my legs. So last Sunday I decided to try the "Skinny Butt" System. I took a picture of my "hail damaged" legs as my husband calls them, and then I started using the Body Sculpting Gel followed by the Firming Body Creme. OMG!!! The results are AMAZING!!! This is ONLY ONE WEEK of using the products!!! Only 7 days!!! And these are MY legs so I know the pictures are REAL!!! Can you believe this !?! I am SO embarrassed that my legs looked like this after losing so much weight...but OMG! Look what is happening with BeautiControl!!!"
Cindy Boling
BeautiControl Consultant

I use both of these daily!!

To get the best results, massage the Body Gel into the area you want to shrink & firm for 20 to 30 seconds. Then do the same with the Body Crème. Use both of these product morning and night. You will get better results when you add moderate exercise like walking and a healthy diet.
On Day 1 take a picture of yourself in your shorts or swimsuit and measure yourself in the area that you want to shrink and firm up. Keep a journal of your measurements and take them every 2 weeks.

You will be amazed at your results!!! When you reach your desired goal, take a picture and you will have your own before and after story. Now you know the skinny on these amazing products.

How can it do this?

These two products utilize the best of scientific and technological advancements as well as the holistic benefits of natural botanicals and essential oils to provide benefits beyond compare. Both products work synergistically to bring your body back to a more youthful appearance.

Body Sculpting Gel
This product helps sculpt the areas of the body that suffer from cellulite and excess fatty deposits. Below the epidermis and dermis, there is a layer of subcutaneous fat cells, called adipocytes. These fat cells are held together by connective tissue. Cellulite is a result of fat cells expanding in non-elastic connective tissues. Cellulite affects both men and women (however, it is more common in women) and those who are thin or overweight.

Cellulite can be caused by numerous factors, like hormones, age, genetics, poor circulation, poor diet and lack of exercise. There are a variety of treatments offered at spas, ranging from liposuction to laser therapy to lymphatic massage.

Body Sculpting Gel is an alternative to medical procedures and therapies and contains a Triple Sculpting Complex that works three ways to reduce the appearance of cellulite and fatty deposits…

1.provides the optimal environment for the skin to empty excess lipids (fat) stored in the adipocytes,
2.stimulates skin’s natural ability to prevent lipid uptake into adipocytes, and
3.visibly firms, tones and reduces the appearance of sagging skin on the arms, decolletage, thighs, buttocks and abdomen.
This unique complex is combined with a delivery system, so the ingredients penetrate deeper into the epidermis where they can be most effective. Also, the formula is lightweight and dries quickly, so you can easily layer it with the Firming Body Creme for maximum results.

Body Sculpting Gel also contains BeautiControl’s exclusive Botanical Detox Complex that has a cooling sensation and helps encourage skin to flush out toxins and protects skin from environmental aggressors. This complex consists of caffeine, ginseng, dandelion, green tea, sea kelp and juniper berry extracts.

Key Ingredients
1.Triple Sculpting Complex – a combination of a theophylline derivative, linoleic acid and palmitoyl carnitine.
2.Epidermal Delivery System that helps ingredients penetrate into the epidermis for maximum efficacy.
3.Botanical Detox Complex – a cooling blend of caffeine, ginseng, dandelion, green tea, sea kelp and juniper berry extracts.

Key Benefits
1.Reduces the appearance of cellulite and fatty deposits.
2.Visibly firms, tones and reduces the appearance of sagging skin on the arms, decolletage, thighs, buttocks and abdomen.
3.Encourages skin to flush out toxins and helps balance water levels in the skin.
To use: Squeeze a generous amount into palm and massage onto areas of concern (like thighs, abdomen and buttocks) twice a day for 20-30 seconds. For even better results, follow with Firming Body Creme. For best results, use in conjunction with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and circulation-stimulating massage.

Firming Body Creme
This product is a moisturizing body cream packed with the same great anti-aging peptides normally found in anti-aging face creams. These peptides help boost skin’s natural ability to produce collagen and repair skin damage that comes with age, resulting in visibly firmer, smoother-looking skin. These peptides, combined with Coenzyme A and Bupleurum extract, make up the Triple Firming Complex found in Firming Body Creme. Like Sculpting Body Gel, this formula contains a delivery system that carries the “active” ingredients deeper into the epidermis for maximum results.

Firming Body Creme also contains BeautiControl’s exclusive Botanical Detox Complex that has a cooling sensation and helps encourage skin to flush out toxins and protects skin from environmental aggressors. This complex consists of caffeine, ginseng, dandelion, green tea, sea kelp and juniper berry extracts.

Key Ingredients
1.Triple Firming Complex – a combination of anti-aging peptides, Coenzyme A and Bupleurum extract.
2.Epidermal Delivery System that helps ingredients penetrate into the epidermis for maximum efficacy.
3.Botanical Detox Complex – a cooling blend of caffeine, ginseng, dandelion, green tea, sea kelp and juniper berry extracts.
Key Benefits

1.Helps boost skin’s natural production of collagen and encourages skin’s repair mechanism.
2.Visibly firms, tones and reduces the appearance of sagging skin on the arms, decolletage, thighs, buttocks and abdomen.
3.Botanical Detox Complex – a cooling blend of caffeine, ginseng, dandelion, green tea, sea kelp and juniper berry extracts.

What To Know When You're 25(ish)

2011-06-05T05:48:00.002-05:00

A friend shared the link below on facebook and it's too good not to share. Check it out here. The Relevant Magazine website has lots of great info!!!

Hope everyone has a great Sunday of worship with our Savior and time with family and friends!!!

Memorial Day Fun

2011-06-03T13:47:00.008-05:00

Last weekend we headed to Lake Eufaula for fun in the sun!!

T and Daddy swimming

T wasn't sure about tubing at first...

but soon he was loving it and we couldn't get him off!! LOL
Here he is with Aunt Kella

Everyone in the water...

T and Aunt Kella racing back to the boat...

Sweet Cousins

We also celebrated Aunt Kella's birthday while we were there. We love you Aunt Kella!!!

At Aunt Kella's party, one of her friends came and brought her little girl....

T and Marianna had a blast together!!!

Thank you again to all of the military men and women, past and present, how continue to unselfishly protect our great country!!!!

Flawless Foundation

2011-06-01T05:07:00.000-05:00

I love these Southern Beauty Secrets from Southern Living

1.Adjust according to season.
It's a good idea to re-evaluate your foundation strategy seasonally. Because May marks a tradion in Southerm weather, it's the perfect time to choose a foundation for summer. Mineral Foundation or powder foundations are great for the summer as they are light on the skin. This is my personal favorite and what I use EVERYDAY regardless of the season!! Check it out here. BeautiControl also offers mineral foundation here.

2. Enlist help from a pro.
First step: come visit me!! (Southern Living said visit a department-store makeup artist but I promise to give you the utmost satisfaction in customer service). I will be happy to evaluate your skin type and find the perfect foundation shade for you. Southern Living suggested applying to your cheek and jawline and step into the sunlight to see which one best matches your skin tone. I love the jawline check because you never want it to appear you have on foundation and that dark line on the jaw is a dead giveaway.

3.Pick the right tools.
I personally love a sponge to to blend eyeshadow and concealor but I love putting both of them on a with a brush and foundation applied with a brush too. Make sure you clean brushes and sponges weekly to ensure a smoother application and keep bacteria away.

4. Your foundation needs friends.
Primers provide a barrier between the skin and your makeup and also absorbs oil. "These products are great if you need a polished look for all day long," Tara Young(hair and makeup manager for CNN WorldWide) said. Apply primer after moisturizer and before your foundation. I love BC's natural primer and use it everyday. Check it out here. This one here is great if you have red you want to cover in your skin. The yellow here is great to cover up dark cirles under your eyes. If you have sallow skin, this is what you need right here.

Happy Memorial Day and Fun Thursday Activity

2011-05-30T07:23:00.000-05:00

First of all, I want to say thank you to all of our past and present military men and women who keep us safe each and everyday. Also, thank you to the military families who sacrifice so much everyday. I greatly appreciate each and everyone of you. Thank you Lord for allowing me to live in the great USA. Father in Heaven, I pray we return to You and the roots our country was founded on.

We went a few times last year and T loved it. Moms even get in for $1!!!
It could be in your area too check it out here!!!

Birthdays in March

2011-05-27T06:53:00.015-05:00

This is long over due but in March we headed to South Georgia to celebrate
Savannah and Trent's birthdays. We had a great time with the hubby's family.

We are so proud of Cousin Vannah (what T used to call her). She graduated from UGA earlier this month with her Interior Design degree!!! This amazing woman even drove the UGA bus (thus the UGA bus cake). We love you Vannah!!!

Sweet Vannah let T help her blow out her candles.

I made Trent's cake and I see I need to work on my icing techinque a bit.

Trent is so sweet and didn't appear to mind that my icing application needs a little work. A horseshoe cake for a true Texas cowboy.

Then Joanna and Trent sang for us and T had to join in...

T dancing with Jo

T shaking it

To check out the latest with Joanna Smith click here. To check out the latest with Trent Willmon click here.

Sale Ending SOON!!

2011-05-25T05:11:00.001-05:00

Don't miss out on this wonderful SALE...

Need to reduce the appearance of puffiness, cool skin, relieve irritation and feel refreshed? Check these out here while they are on sale...

BeautiControl Men's products are on sale!! Save 10% until Tuesday!!
4 Mens Colognes are on sale just in time for Father's Day.

I have these in-stock if you want to come by and see how they smell!!
Plus BC offers a just for men skincare line. The Scrubbing Gel Cleanser
is one of my best sellers in that line. Check it all out here.

Great Sites to Save Money On

2011-05-23T07:10:00.007-05:00

Groupon is a website that offers daily deals from things like restaurants, to hair salons, to waterparks, the movies, etc. You never know what I might find in your e-mail for the Groupon deal of the day. Act fast because they do go fast. There is a limited number that can be redeemed and a certain number of people have to buy the offer before it is a done deal. Check it out here on my reference code.

Several bowling allies offers free bowling for children 16 and under. They get 2 games free every day of the summer. You can also purchase a pass for up to 4 adults where they can play 2 games everyday for the summer. That pass is $27.95 while the kids one is just a sign-up.
Note:this does not include shoe rental.
Check out the website here.

Go to OliveGarden.com to signup to receive e-mails from them. I just received a $4 off any 2 dinner entrees until June 26th!!! Lots of restaurants offer a place for you to signup to get e-mails. In these e-mails they offer coupons and special offers.

Happy Money Saving Monday!!!