Wednesday, October 7, 2015

October is Depression Awareness Month/ Causes for Depression


Hello Everyone!



As the title for today's topic states, October is Depression is Awareness Month so I thought I would write a post. Those of you who read my blog know that I started a depression awareness series on my blog in January of this year. I'm going to be honest when I first hit that publish button on my first depression awareness post I felt afraid, but I set my fears aside because I felt I could help someone by sharing my story and my insights on the subject.

Having depression can make even the most simple tasks like getting out of bed and taking a shower can leave a person feeling tired and or overwhelemed. Even before I was diagnosed with clinical depression, I always felt that you should check on people that you love and be kind to people because you never know what someone may be going through. It makes me feel so good to know in the comments section that many of you find these posts inspiring and helpful when dealing with depression.

When I was first diagnosed with Clinical Depression in 2009 I had a really hard time accepting it, but at the same time I was relieved that at least I knew that there were treatment options for my feelings of sadness. Depression may be a part of my life that I deal with, but it isn't my whole life. Depression doesn't define who I am as a person. For today's post I also wanted to shed light on a few causes for depression.


Some Causes for Depression Include:

- Genetics/Family History

- Life Events

- Personal Issues

- Abuse

- Substance Abuse

- Death, Loss, and Grief

- Certain Medications

- Environmental Factors

* I'm not a health professional, but I know that those are some of the causes for depression.

I've mentioned in my previous posts that my clinical depression typically comes from stressful life events. Typically I cope pretty well with depression, but I have my days that my mood is low. When I feel like this I just remind myself that I know that I will and can feel better. If you struggle with some of the items I listed above or some other issues related to depression or any other mental illness, remember there is treatment and help available to help you start to feel better.


October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I wrote posts on these two topics in 2013. Here are the links. You will notice that I updated some information.

Domestic Violence Awareness:
http://plovesfashion.blogspot.com/2013/10/domestic-violence-awareness.html

Breast Cancer Awareness:
http://plovesfashion.blogspot.com/2013/10/october-is-breast-cancer-awareness-month.html




NOTICE FROM MONDAY 10/5/15:

If you've been keeping up with the News and weather lately, you may have heard that South Carolina experience flooding over the weekend. Well I live in SC and the weather was terrible,
and the aftermath is terrible as well. The carpet in my apartment was completely flooded by Sunday morning when I woke up (and other damages), but I feel so blessed and grateful to have a home. I should be posting content that I have drafted this week, but my commenting and responding may be delayed since I have to take care of cleaning etc. Please keep the residents of South Carolina in your thoughts and prayers. Thanks for understanding!

Pilar


Friday, October 2, 2015

Fall Makeup and Nail Polish Essentials 2015

Hello Everyone! 



You can probably tell from Fall Week on my blog, that I love this time of year! The weather is cooler (well at least usually around mid October where I live) I can wear sweaters and boots. The leaves, hot chocolate, the holidays, this list could be endless lol. Oh how love Fall!  Anyway it's that beautiful time of year when I switch up my makeup. I still wear bright colors, but I can't deny I've missed wearing darker makeup. Here are a some products that I'll be using throughout the Fall.

Lipsticks 


1. Revlon Lip Butter: Berry Smoothie
2. Revlon Lip Butter: Raspberry Pie
3. NYX Butter Lipstick: Sweet Tart



MAC Lipsticks:
1. Rebel
2. Media
3. Pure Heroine 
4. Dubonnet
5. Flat Out Fabulous 
6. Russian Red




Eyeshadow Palettes



1. Urban Decay Naked Palette
2. Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette
3. BH Cosmetics  28 Color Palette Smokey Eye Edition
4. Maybelline The Smokes Palette 
5. Urban Decay Vice 3 Palette




Next I'm going to share some of my Fall Nail Polish Essentials. I love wearing darker nail polish colors during this time of year!


Sinful Colors Professional


1. Black on Black
2. Graped
3. Cold Leather
4. Ruby Ruby
5. Dream on


BH Cosmetics Nail Lacquer


1. Night
2. Wine
3. Truffle
4. Berry




What are some of your favorite makeup and nail polish essentials for Fall?


Here are all the posts I have on my blog this week for Fall Week!
 
Thanks for stopping by my blog!

Thursday, October 1, 2015

Clarisonic Mia 1 Review

Hello Everyone!




It wouldn't Fall Week on my blog without talking about skincare. The Clarisonic MIA series are some of the most popular facial skincare devices on the market. Today I will be sharing my thoughts on the Clarisonic Mia 1


Product Information is taken from http://www.clarisonic.com/






Our smallest one speed wonder, Clarisonic Mia 1 is the perfect start to sonic cleansing.


FEATURES
1 Speed (Universal)
Clarisonic Mia  features Speed 2 (Universal), suitable for all skin types. Cleansing six times better than hands alone, the Universal speed is developed for normal daily use.
Interchangable Facial Brush Heads
Choose from a variety of interchangeable facial brush heads for your Clarisonic Mia 1, each uniquely designed and engineered for specific skin types or conditions. Visit our Brush Head Comparison Chart for more information.
1 Year Warranty
Clarisonic Mia 1 comes with a warranty covering any manufacturer defect-related problems resulting from everyday use of the product

               Cost: $99.00








I guess you all get a little sneak peak of my makeup collection. Stay Tuned!




My Thoughts

I received my Clarisonic Mia 1 for a birthday gift last year for my birthday (December) from my best friend. I had been wanting one for ages and he got it for me :) For the past few months since I've been using the Clarisonic Mia 1 I can definitely see positive results. This device only has one speed, but it's very powerful in getting the job done to cleanse my face. My face feels softer and smoother. I've even noticed that when I'm  having oily skin issues, it helps reduce the oil after usage. I also noticed that my when I apply foundation on my face it goes on smoother after usage.

When I first started using the Clarisonic my face felt slightly irritated because the bristles on the brush felt hard since the brush was brand new. As the bristles softened over time the irritation went away. I used the sample skin cleanser that came with the Clarisonic and it cleanses pretty well. I don't use the cleasnser very often, so I still have a little bit left. I haven't purchased the full bottle, but the cleanser is something to look into purchasing. I typically use Cetaphil to cleanse my face when I'm using my Clarisonic because it has worked well for me the past few years.




I love using this device after wearing makeup and I have to agree with the claims; this device helps remove makeup well! My face feels so clean after I take my makeup off. You can use this device on your face twice a day, but typically I use mine once a day three times a week. It comes with a charger and the charge holds for a while. I've used my Clarisonic a couple of times without having to recharge in a short amount of time. I also like that I can use it in the shower since the device is waterproof. I know the Clarisonic is a bit pricey, but it's worth the money!



Do you own any of the Clarisonic devices? What are your thoughts?



Here are my other posts I have on my blog this week for Fall Week!

http://plovesfashion.blogspot.com/2015/09/all-in-packaging-macaron-and-lipstick.html

http://plovesfashion.blogspot.com/2015/09/i-love-fall-tag.html

http://plovesfashion.blogspot.com/2015/09/hello-fall-fotd.html

http://plovesfashion.blogspot.com/2015/09/bath-and-body-works-haul-fall-candles.html



Thanks for stopping by my blog!

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Bath and Body Works Haul: Fall Candles Collection Collaboration

Hello Everyone



My good friend Ashley @ashleysuemakeup.blogspot.com and I decided to do a collaboration post on our 2015 Fall Candles from Bath and Body Works

It seems like I'm one of the few people in life who doesn't like or appreciate pumpkin lol. I wanted to give pumpkin scents a chance even though I hate the taste. Long story short, it was a no go. I wanted to get pumpkin coconut, but the scent set off my allergies. So there won't be any pumpkin scented candles for me.

I was having a few stressful weeks and as a pick me up, my mom purchased these candles. Thank you mama! I love you so much! This made my day! These candles were purchased during the 2 for $24 sale about two few weeks ago. I know BABW also had the same this past weekend. These candles were a pretty good deal because in addition to the sale she had a 20% coupon and an exchange for store credit.




1. Farmstand Apple



Bath and Body Works Description:


Notes of McIntosh apple, pear blossom & oak call to mind a day at the orchard




My Thoughts:

Farmstand Apple is basically American Apple repackaged. Both candles smell the same or at least I don't smell the difference between them. Here is the description I used for American Apple This candle smells semi sweet. I smell more of a refreshing crisp apple scent. I really like this scent and the throw is pretty good. My thoughts are basically the same for Farmstand Apple as well. If you were a fan of American Apple you'll likely be pleased with Farmstand Apple. You can the previous BABW candle haul post I wrote HERE




Farmstand Apple and American Apple





2. Buttercream Icing



Bath and Body Works Description:



The mouthwatering fragrance of fluffy buttercream frosting on a rich vanilla cupcake




 My Thoughts:

This candle smells so good! It reminds me of my mama's homemade buttercream frosting and now I want a piece of cake! It smells more of a fluffy buttercream scent with hints of vanilla in the throw. This candle is similar to Vanilla Bean Marshmallow except (in my opinion) I think the Buttercream Icing smells better I burned this candle the other day, and  my house smells like a bakery full of sweet buttercream within 30 minutes!






Here's an extra candle I received free from Yankee Candle
Sweet Strawberry



Yankee Candle Description:

The essence of perfectly ripe strawberries sprinkled with sugar.


My Thoughts:

I haven't burned this candle yet, but the cold sniff scent is more strawberry than sweet. I can only hope that this candle's throw won't disappoint like most Yankee Candle Candles I've had in the past. I just don't understand how these candles are so expensive, but I can barely smell the throw in my house let alone in the same room.



Have you picked up any Fall candles? If so which candle(s) did you select? Don't forget to check out my friend Ashley's post to see what Fall candles she selected. You can check out her blog @ashleysuemakeup.blogspot.com


Here are my other posts I have on my blog this week for Fall Week!

Thanks for stopping by my blog!


Monday, September 28, 2015

Hello Fall FOTD

Hello Everyone!


I originally didn't think I would have time to post a Fall Makeup look, but I felt I couldn't celebrate Fall Week on my blog if I didn't include a makeup look! For today's FOTD I created this Smokey Navy Blue and Purple Eyeshadow Look. I even used blush for this look!




Products Used



*Eyes*

- NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk
- BH Cosmetics 28 Color Smokey Eye Edition


1. Transition color: 2nd row 2nd shade
2.  All over the lid: 2nd row 3rd shade
3. Crease and Outer V: 3rd row: 


* Face *

- Cetaphil DermaControl Oil  Moisturizer (for primer)

- Fashion Fair Loose Powder (Amber)

- Fashion Fair Fast Finish. Foundation Stick (Butterscotch/Caramel)

- BH Cosmetics Iris Blush Duo  (Darker Shade)



* Lips *

- MAC Pure Heroine Lipstick (LE)


Here are my other posts I have on my blog this week for Fall Week!

http://plovesfashion.blogspot.com/2015/09/all-in-packaging-macaron-and-lipstick.html

http://plovesfashion.blogspot.com/2015/09/i-love-fall-tag.html






Thanks for stopping by my blog!

Sunday, September 27, 2015

I Love Fall Tag!

Hello Everyone!


My friends Ashley and Margo tagged me for the I Love Fall Tag. Thanks for tagging me ladies! Here are my responses. Two posts for Sunday?! Yes, that's right! To start off Fall week on my blog, I thought I would post two posts for today! You can check out my DIY Macaron and Lipstick Egg Lip Gloss Tutorial HERE

What is your favourite fall month?
November

What did you dress as for Halloween last year?
I didn't dress up last year

What is your favourite fall food?
Sweet potato pie

Do you have any fall traditions?
The only tradition I can think of is preparing a menu for Thanksgiving dinner

Do you have any Halloween traditions?
I usually watch scary movies on TV.

What music do you like to listen to during fall?
I listen to all kinds of music during all seasons of the year

What is your favourite fall outfit?
Leggings, Sweater, and Boots

Favorite scary movie?
I cant think of one at the moment lol

S’mores or pumpkin pie?
S'mores!

Hot chocolate or warm apple cider?
Hot Chocolate!

Do you like Pumpkin Spice Lattes?
No

What is the best thing about your town during fall?
The fair I guess even though I haven't been in years.

Tea or coffee?
Tea

Cats or bats?
Cats
Do you enjoy carving jack-o-lanterns?
I have never carved a jack-o-lanterns.

Do you enjoy visiting graveyards?
Absolutely NOT!

What is your favourite fall memory?
Going to the fair as a child

Gloves or mittens?
Gloves

Do you enjoy the other seasons?
Spring

How do you plan to spend this Halloween?
I don't know. I'll probably just watch scary movies on TV.

In ONE sentence… WHY do you love fall so much?
The weather is cooler!

What is your favourite fall makeup look?
Neutral eyeshadow and dark lipstick or Dark eyeshadow and neutral lipstick

What is your favourite fall candle scent?
Right now, it's Farmstand Apple from Bath and Body Works

Do you enjoy cold weather?
I enjoy cooler weather not really cold weather.

What is your least favourite thing about fall?
Anything Pumpkin!

What is your favourite Halloween candy?
I don't really have one.

What is one thing you’d love to try during fall, but haven’t yet?

Apple Picking. I heard that it's really fun.


I tag anyone who wants to do this tag!

Here's the link once again to my Macaron and Lipstick Egg DIY Lip Gloss Tutorial

Thanks for stopping by my blog!

All In Packaging: Macaron and Lipstick Egg DIY Lip Gloss and Review

Hello Everyone!


* These products were sent to me by All in Packaging for testing and review purposes. All opinions are 100 % my own.


Macaron


Lipstick Egg
*The bottom half of the lipstick egg is fixed
 

Welcome to Fall Week on my Blog! Today I thought I would start with my reviews on these lipstick eggs and macarons. As the cooler weather approaches hydrated lips are lips are so important! Before, I write my review for these products, I'm going to share two easy DIY lip gloss recipes!


1. Macaron: Eyeshadow Lip Gloss 



You'll Need:


- 1 tablespoon Vaseline or Petroleum Jelly
- Drop of honey
- Eyeshadow
- Bowl
- Spoon
- Macaron Container

Directions:

1. Melt Vaseline or petroleum jelly and honey in a bowl for 20 or 30 seconds in microwave.


2. Add a eyeshadow to add tint to your mixture


3. Stir until ingredients are well blended.



4. Put lip gloss into macaron container and place into the freezer for 30 to 45 minutes. I left my macaron uncovered.



5. Remove





2. Lipstick Egg: Honey Lip Gloss


You'll Need:

- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 tablespoon Vaseline or Petroleum Jelly
- Bowl
-Spoon

1. Place honey and Vaseline or petroleum jelly in a bowl. Mix well.


2. Melt the ingredients in the microwave for 20 to 25 seconds. Remove and Stir.


3. Pour ingredients into the top half of the lipstick egg and place into the freezer for 2 hours. I found leaving the vaseline mixture in the freezer a little longer helps mold it better.


4. Remove from freezer. You may have to adjust the mold into an egg shape on top of the fixed egg on the bottom.




My Thoughts

I think that the macarons and lipstick eggs are so cute! Both containers are durable and make lip care DIY projects easy to complete. The only thing I wished is that the lip egg wasn't fixed, I guess it wasn't too much of an issue since I was able to mold the vaseline into an egg shape easily. I didn't have any beeswax on hand, but I thought the Vaseline worked well without making a mess. Whenever I purchase some beeswax, I'm going to try and do another DIY lip gloss tutorial. I typically dont use vaseline, except to moisturize my lips at night before I go to bed during the colder months. The macarons and lipstick eggs also make great DIY Gifts!


For my international readers in the United Kingdom you can check out their website at http://www.allinpackaging.co.uk. Even though this company doesn't ship to United States you can still browse the site.


Today I decided to two posts to start off Fall week on my blog! Here is the link to my I Love Fall Tag!

Thanks for stopping by my blog!


Thinking of my Mommy

Hello Everyone and Happy 4th of July! I know that I've been m.i.a for almost a year and I plan on returning soon.  Today as America cele...