You Want Me To Put WHAT On My Face?

Wrinkles terrify me.  As I've mentioned, I just hit the big 3-0, and it's really affected me.  It's a little silly, since I don't have a single line, but I'd like to keep it that way.  I've started being really careful of the makeup I use;  I make sure that my face wash is exfoliating, and I moisturize like crazy.  Purifying masks are my new best friend, even though the green ones really confuse my parakeets.  I never cared before, but now, if it's anti-aging, it's by my sink.

This, however, may be going a bit too far:

Photo by Japantrendshop

These are the Mejikara Anti-Wrinkle Glasses Anti-Aging Goggles.  $48, japantrendshop.com.  I wish I were kidding, but you can't make this stuff up, folks. 

According to the site:

On the inside of the Mejikara there are specially-designed ridges which massage and help your skin. It puts gentle pressure on the skin and pushes those sagging eyes back up to where they once were!

Apparently, you wear this for five minutes a day, and wrinkles magically disappear (or, at least, improve)!  Yep, and I have some swamp land in Florida, if you're interested.

I don't know.  I haven't tried them, so they could work, I guess, but I'm not forking over $48 for what looks like a lens-less version of my little brothers swim goggles, which came from the dollar store, by the way.  Yes, my clay masks make me look like Elphaba, but most of the time Thomas wears one, too, so we look silly together.  I'm not sure I could keep a straight face with this thing on.  My opinion:  you're better off with a good skincare routine and a bottle of concealer. 

Alrighty, today's trip to the magic bag o' samples brought out Viktor & Rolf's Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum.  $22-$100, Sephora.com.  This is reader magnolia's fave, so I was really excited to get to try it out, and I have to say, it's delicious.

This is another sweet scent, so be ye warned.  According to Sephora:

This floral explosion releases a profusion of flowers that has the power to make everything seem more positive. Magically evocative notes immediately awaken your deepest senses, giving you the impression of living life in your own secret garden, away from reality. Sambac Jasmine, Centifolia Rose, Cattleya Orchid, and Ballerina Freesia bloom on a base of Patchouli.

Doesn't Ballerina Freesia just scream "girly"?!  This is a fresh, feminine scent, very reminiscent of baby powder.  I'm betting there's some amber or vanilla in there they're not telling us about.

Now, funny thing about this.  It's eerily similar to the perfume I wore on my wedding day.  I spent weeks, possibly months, agonizing over what scent I was going to wear when I got married.  Your sense of smell is so closely linked to memory, that I wanted just the perfect perfume to help me capture all the memories of that day, and something that would smell wonderful so that when it triggered those memories it would all be sweet and lovey-dovey, and not leave me connecting my wedding with, oh, say...dead fish, or something like that.  It seems silly, but every time I smell anything that's even remotely close to my wedding perfume, I think of that day and smile.

Anyway, I digress.  Before the wedding, I went to every store imaginable, and tried on every scent I could find.  I had spritzers and sample cards (and a hellacious headache), and finally settled on the. perfect. scent.  I didn't know what it was (I'd just grabbed a bottle and sprayed), and when I found the label, I cracked up.  Seriously.  I'm surprised the nice people at Kohl's didn't call security.  The scent:  With Love, Hilary Duff.

Now, here I am, 27 years old, about to get married, and what perfume do I pick?  Chanel?  Dior?  No.  Hilary freaking Duff.  What's worse, I'd worked for the Mouse's radio station during the golden age of her tv show, Lizzie Maguire.  There were pictures of Hilary Duff all over the office, frisbees with her face on them in the prize closet, and her voice on the radio almost 24/7 (she alternated with Lindsay Lohan.  I now know what my version of Hell will be, and I promise to be good).

The thing is, it smelled heavenly.  According to Kohl's, the fragrance is comprised of:

Top notes: succulent mangosteen fruit and exotic spices.

Middle notes: blossoms and cocobolo wood.
Base notes: deep amber milk and sultry amber musk.  

Obviously, they're not clones, but there are definite similarities to Flowerbomb.  It's also in the most adorable, faceted bottle that almost looks like a jewel, so it's not embarrassing to have out on my dresser.  It's sophisticated without being stuffy, and was just what I wanted for my big day:  innocence, youth, and girliness, but combined with a grown-up elegance.  Kind of funny, coming from a teeny-bopper pop star, but it did the trick.  One more thing--at $25 for 1oz (kohls.com), it's a budget-friendly alternative to the Viktor & Rolf, and who doesn't like saving money?  Then again, maybe that's just me showing my age.

Magic (Red) Carpet Ride

I did not watch the Emmy Awards last night.  Nope.  I watched the commentary to Dark and Stormy Night, a side-splittingly hilarious send-up of all those 1930s dark house movies (my personal favorite, And Then There Were None).  The film was made by Larry Blamire and his usual Bantam Street suspects, the same low-budget indie group who put together The Lost Skeleton of Cadavra and The Lost Skeleton Returns Again.  I like to think of them as Fighting Owl Films, five or ten years from now, with a slightly larger budget and a few more resources.  If you have absolutely no clue what I'm talking about right now, do yourself a favor and find a copy of any of the above mentioned films.  You won't regret it.  Oh! While you're at it, check out Fighting Owl Films website to see a group of talented indie filmmakers just getting started.  Alright, end of plug.

So, I skipped out on the Emmys.  That doesn't mean I missed all the fashion action.  No, sir.  The morning news networks and the Interwebs made darn sure of that.  As I have been inundated with Award Show couture, I thought, "Well, when in Rome..." and made up my list of the best, worst and what the heck moments from the Red Carpet.

The Good

Claire Danes in Armani.  This is, hands down, my favorite for the night.  The whole look is sweet, sexy, and just plain gorgeous. 

Lea Michele in Oscar de la Renta.  The ruffles, hair and makeup are young and fun, but the gown's color and overall silhouette, paired with some killer statement jewelry, keep the look sophisticated.   

Nina Dobrev in Zuhair Murad.  This seems to be the critics favorite this year, and it's tough to argue with them.  The look is flawless. 

The Bad

Keri Russell in vintage Jean-Louis Scherrer.  Overall, I have no problem with the dress, makeup or hair.  The entire look is very well pulled-together and lovely.  It's just not formal enough for a black-tie event, in my opinion.  Maybe an evening at the theatre, a wedding, or cocktail party, but not the Emmys.

Lo Bosworth in Karen Caldwell.  This is another girl who didn't get the memo about the Emmys being a formal event.  This is a precious dress, but it's not formal.  Throw a sweater over it, and you could wear it to the office.  My major problem with this look, though, is the hair.  It looks like she fixed it, but then decided to take out a bobby pin, or something, undoing a large chunk, which she just ignored.  I don't want to be mean, but if I started to go out with my hair like that, I would hope that someone would point it out to me so I could fix it.   

Lauren Graham in Yigal Azrouel.  This hurts my heart.  I love Lauren Graham, and to see her in something so odd and unflattering is almost unbearable.  I actually thought this was a pantsuit at first glance, which might have been cool, but then realized it's just that straight of a skirt.  Also, what is up with the colorblocking and the wing-like back?  On top of it, her hair is messy, and while that is the style right now, it doesn't work with this dress.  It looks like she needs some hairspray and a brush.  Her face, though, as usual, is gorgeous.  Oh, that was painful to write.  I shall go home and watch a season of Gilmore Girls as penance.

The Ugly

Anna Paquin in Alexander McQueen.  It looks like she's ready for battle.  Between the weird breastplate thingy, the poor fit, and proportions being all off, it's not my favorite.  She's a beautiful girl, and I think this could be a really cool dress, but they don't work together, and that's just unfortunate.  I will say that she worked the attitude, so she must have felt good in it, and I guess that's what's most important.

Christina Hendricks in Zac Posen.  I cannot stress how much I adore Christina Hendricks.  She's stunningly beautiful, funny, strong, and I would freaking kill for curves like that.  That said, I hate this dress.  I mean, hate this dress.  I think it's the feathers.  Instead of giving off the old-school Hollywood glamour vibe they were probably going for, it comes off as a negligee.  She looks amazing in it (of course, she'd look amazing in a paper sack), but it looks like a nightgown.

January Jones in Versace.  The dress is odd.  I have no idea what that material is supposed to be.  January Jones is otherworldly gorgeous, but that doesn't mean the dress needs to look like it came off an alien spacecraft.  On top of it, someone needed to hand her a brush before she got out of the car.  And yet, she still looks beautiful.  Just goes to show, it's not the dress, it's the girl.

Bonus:  The Awesome

Betty White in something she pulled out of her closet.  When you're that awesome, you don't need a stylist.  Congrats, Betty, on your Emmy win, and on your remarkable career and fabulous comeback!  We love you!

Extra Special Bonus:  What Do You Think? 

Rutina Wesley in Douglass Annette.  Critics have been torn on this one, and I wanted to get your opinions.  I'll agree that this was a risk, but did she pull it off?  I can't decide on this one.  Leave your thoughts in the comments.

Now, for today's dip into the magic bag o' samples:  Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden!  According to Sephora:

Eyeshadow Primer Potions from Urban Decay are unmatched in the beauty industry! The genie in these bottles fulfills three wishes: eyeshadow that lasts, more vibrant and lasting color, and absolutely NO creasing. Apply Primer Potion to lids before shadow application and it dries down almost instantly, creating smooth lids that are super-powered eyeshadow magnets. Urban Decay offers several unique shades in their Eyeshadow Primer Potions, but all boast the same unbelievable function. Eden is a matte-finish, tawny hue and gives you a stunning "no makeup" look when worn alone or complements other eyeshadows worn in combination. Packaged in a pretty genie bottle, all these Potions are applied with a magic wand and flocked applicator.

Well, let's give it a try, shall we?  I didn't have a genie-shaped bottle or a flocked magic wand applicator, since my sample came on a card, so I pulled out the old concealer brush to apply the primer.  Its texture is similar to frosting, but it went on very smoothly, and was a very pretty nude shade.  If you like matte, nude eyeshadow, you don't have to put anything on over this.  It works fine on its own.  I, however, needed to test how it worked as a primer, not as an eyeshadow, so I still had some work to do. 

To really test it, I pulled out a very soft, very blendable (very easy to rub off) eyeshadow trio.  Let's see how well you hold onto three eyeshadows, Mr. Bon--I mean, Urban Decay!  (*hesitant, embarrassed evil laughter*) 

The eyeshadows went on easily, and blended with no problem.  Four hours and a lot of humidity later, they still look like they did when I put them on.  Well done, Urban Decay.  Well done.  It's a good primer, so I may have to check out their Sin color next time I'm in Sephora.  It's a shimmering champagne, and one that I might just wear on its own.  $18, Sephora.com.

*Photos by Harpar's Bazaar

There's a Little Black Raincloud Over Me

I needed a smile today.  After three years with his company, Thomas was let go.  It's just one of those things that happens, and we'll deal with it, but it's a huge blow to our budget.  Those of you who have been keeping up with this blog know that we're in the process of moving and are also working on an independant film.  Obviously, this is not a good time for one spouse to be out of work.  It's also not the best time to be job-hunting, since unemployment is at a high right now.  We could both definitely use some smiles right about now.

Luckily, there is a man out there who seems to specialize in smiles.  His name is James Hance, and he deals in what he calls "relentlessly cheery art".  Hance's work is unapologetically pop--celebrity portraits, TV subjects, and Star Wars as far as the eye can see.  Oh, and Muppets galore.  We must never leave out the Muppets.  He's described as "a big kid at heart, with an infectious sense of humor," and really, shouldn't we all be so lucky to have someone like that in our lives.

They're not the equivalent of a new job, but these pieces did, momentarily, put smiles on our faces, so I thought I'd share them with you.  All are available as prints for $10.

I love this.  First off, Super Grover!  Secondly, the look on (an incredibly realistic) Christopher Reeve's face just beams out affection.  You feel happy looking at it, and I'm not entirely sure that feeling has anything to do with the subject.  I think a lot of love went into this painting, and it just comes pouring back out. 

My favorite Fraggle Rock guys, the Doozers.  Little fellas who worked dilligently, paid only with an occasional, "Thank You," as a Fraggle bit into one of their radish-flavored buildings.  They were unsung heroes, making the world a better place for Fraggles, and this, somehow, seems very appropriate.

Okay, this one's just silly.  Kermit of the Dead?  It does seem fitting, though, that the frog is carrying a cricket bat. 

Now, we're getting into my favorites.  Hance has done a series of cartoons that are based on A.A. Milne's "Winnie the Pooh" children's books.  If I ever have a kid, this will be his/her nursery (consider this warning, Thomas).

Wookie the Chew!!!!!!!

I'm not posting the entire series here, but I think you get the idea.  I adore the little Han!!!! 

Heehee!!!!!  The little AT-AT as Eeyore has completely made my day.  I've seen some cute Star Wars stuff in my life, but this wins, hands down.  I hope you enjoyed them as much as I did.

Okay, today's dip into the magic bag o' samples yielded Olay Quench Advanced Healing Body Lotion.  $8.99, Walgreen's.  I guess it's appropriate that the day my husband loses his job is the day I stop pulling out Sephora samples and start pulling out ones from the drugstore.  The universe has a sense of humor, no?

I liked it.  It's unscented, so it doesn't compete with perfume, which is always a plus.  The results were also immediately noticeable.  My skin looked more moisturized and felt smoother.  Another plus, the lotion didn't irritate my freshly shaved legs.  No little red bumps or stinging with this stuff.  Several hours later, my legs still feel silky soft.  For nine bucks, it's definitely worth a try.

*Photos by James Hance

I Wonder If They're #2's?

I used to get really bored in school.  Who didn't?  To pass the time, I had a tendency to rub my pencil under the desk, just to see how sharp I could make the graphite.  This was, of course, after M.A.S.H. had gotten old, all notes had been passed, and all the circular letters in my text book had been filled in.  Obviously, this was before smart phones, or I'd have just played on Facebook.  I did have a pager, but that wasn't much of a boredom buster.

So, yeah, I sharpened pencils and got about as close to defacing school property as a goody-two-shoes like me could get.  However, in all my years of pencil sharpening, I never did anything as cool as this:

Photo by Inhabitat

My friend, Megan, sent this picture to me, and after a little searching, I found out the artist's name is Dalton Ghetti.  He's from Connecticut, by way of Brazil, and does this for fun.  Ghetti has never sold any of his artwork, but gives the pencils away to friends and family.  The sculptures can take several months to complete, with at least one sculpture taking well over two years.  He carves them all without the aid of a magnifying glass, and his only tools are a razor blade, sewing needle and sculpting knife.  Here are a few of my favorites:

Photo by Inhabitat

That looks like the tiniest bronzed baby shoe ever.  It's so realistic that you almost believe you could put your foot in it!  I think the curled tongue is my favorite part.

Photo by Inhabitat

This is my absolute favorite out of the group.  I really couldn't tell you why, but I guess it's something about the open door to the mailbox--the expectation of it.  I really don't know, but it's lovely.  Ghetti keeps what he calls a "cemetery collection" for pieces that break mid-sculpt.  With this kind of detail, it's completely understandable that some would fall apart, and I'm thrilled he still shows them.

Photo by Inhabitat

Okay, this one just made me giggle.  ELVIS!!!!!  *swoon*  For more information on Dalton Ghetti, you can visit this site, or this one, or this one.

Okay, today's trip into the magic bag o' samples is actually an update.  Originally, I pulled out a different sample, but it had expired...last year...oops. 

A little while ago, I told you about Stila's One Step makeup foundation.  I highly recommended it, but added that while it does act as a primer, foundation, and powder, you would still need concealer.  I would like to ammend that.  When I made that statement, I was wearing the medium shade, which was a touch too dark for me, but worked if put on lightly.  Today, I used the light shade (which is a touch too light, but there is a shade in-between called 'tone' that would probably be my best bet), so I was able to apply the foundation a little more thickly.  Here's the ammendment:  you may not need concealer.  This covered my dark circles without any help (and I haven't not worn undereye cover since...well, birth, probably).  However, it did not completely cover the redness around a small blemish.  Basically, you can probably do without, but I'd still hang on to my concealer for emergencies.  Also, in case you were wondering, the foundation is still just as fantastic this time as it was the last.  This stuff is amazing, and could end up saving you a lot of money in the long run.  $44, Sephora.com.

We Are Marshall (and Lily)

Photo by Fanpop

Four years ago today, Thomas and I went on our first date.  That was pretty much all it took, really, and less than five months later, we were engaged. 

One of our favorite shows to watch together is How I Met Your Mother.  I came into the show a couple of seasons in, and realized very quickly that it seemed somewhat...well, familiar.  Thomas didn't watch the show back then, and it took a little coercing to get him to sit down for an episode, but once I did, he noticed it, too.



Thomas:  Oh, my God.
Me:  Yeah, I know.
Thomas:  Oh, my God.
Me:  It's a little scary, right?
Thomas:  Oh, my God.  We're Marshall and Lily!
Me:  Yup.

I don't mean, "aw, we're so cute and in love and married like the adorable couple on tv."  I mean, "holy crap, is there someone from that show stalking us?"  For example:

1)  Marshall and Lily went to Loch Ness for their honeymoon to stalk Nessie.  They missed a performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream.  Erin and Thomas went to Cardiff, Wales for our honeymoon to stalk David Tennant.  We missed a performance of the Aladdin Panto.

2)  Marshall calls Lily 'Lilypad'.  Thomas calls me 'Lilleypad'.

3)  Marshall and Lily live in Dowisewtrepla, in an apartment with a crooked floor.  Erin and Thomas live on Downtowner, in an apartment with a crooked floor (and walls, for that matter).

4)  Marshall is very sweet and easily excited (robot wars!), while Lily is a shopaholic and artist.  I'm just going to let that one speak for itself.

5)  This one kills me.  Lily has a doppelganger, 'Stripper Lily', who works in a gentlemen's club.  I have 'Bartender Erin'.  There is some girl around here who works in a club downtown.  Her name is Erin, and apparently, we're twins.  I've actually had a guy she stood up question me, thinking I was her;  and the poor barista at Starbucks got really confused when we both went through the drive-up at the same time ("when did you change clothes?").

Maybe it's just us.  Anyway, on our first date, Thomas and I watched The Rocketeer, so in honor of my 'Marshmallow' (Lily's name for Marshall--not mine for Thomas!!), I thought I'd drum up some steampunky pretties for your viewing pleasure.

Photo by Etsy

This gorgeous necklace is available for $36 on Etsy.  The intricacies of the clockwork mesh really well with the filigree, don't you think?

Photo by Catherinette's Ring Shop

That green is what got me.  It just pops out from the copper and gold, and says, "look at me!"  $35 on Etsy.

Photo by Steam Designs' Shop

I think this might break me of my dog-earing habit.  This bookmark is $49.95 on Etsy.

Photo by Steam Designs' Shop

This is a hair pin.  I can't recall if I've ever worn a hair pin, but this one makes me want to give it a shot.  $49.95 on Etsy.
Now, for today's trip into the magic bag o' samples!  Today, I pulled Urban Decay's Deluxe Eyeshadow in Ruthless and Freakshow.  $18 each, Sephora.com.  According to Sephora:

Turn your eyes into opulent works of art with these vibrant, silky, and luscious to the touch, eyeshadows that feature couture-quality and cutting-edge color. Loaded with silky pigments, this sophisticated new formula provides the richest, most brilliant color imaginable. Truly intense and definitely incomparable, Deluxe Shadows are like an artist's palette for the eyes.

This is some darn good eyeshadow.  Ruthless is a pale sand color with a hint of shimmer, and Freakshow is a muted plum with red overtones.  They blend effortlessly, and personally, I'm loving Freakshow with my new haircolor (still auburn, but with a lot more red).  My samples just came on a card, but the packaging for the full-sized shadows is a little bit awesome.  The look like graffitti-ed buttons, and each one is different.  Very cool.  If you're looking for eyeshadow, this is one to consider.

The Most Contested Cruise That Ever Sailed

I'm a Disney girl.  I get it from my parents.  We watched the movies, visited the park (a lot), and I even worked for the Mouse for a short while after college.  Then, I had to go and marry a guy who's as much a Mickey freak as I am.  Our kids have no hope.  We're planning a trip to Disney World right now, and are seriously considering a trip to Disneyland next year.  Neither of us have ever been to the park in Anaheim, so I thought I'd do a little advance research to see what's different, new, or exciting.  I had no idea what I was walking into.

Talk about controversy!  Back in February '09 (yeah, I'm late to the party), it's a small world (no, they don't capitalize it) re-opened following a massive overhaul.  Mechanics were repaired, dolls were cleaned up, costumes were laundered and pressed, sets were painted and re-glittered, lighting and sound were upgraded, boats were slightly re-designed...you know, the usual, but all fairly unnoticeable changes.  One thing, however, that is noticeable, is the Rainforest characters have moved to the South America room.  This was to make room for a new "Spirit of America" display, featuring cowboys, farmers, and Native Americans frolicking through the countryside, with an exit through the Hollywood Bowl.  Um...okaaaay...

Whatever.  Here's where things get interesting.  The addition of 29 characters from Disney and Disney*Pixar films has been made to the ride.  That's right.  Twenty-nine characters are floating (some literally) through it's a small world, making it a 15-minute game of Where's Waldo.  Also, the music was remixed to include snippets of movie themes.  This has caused some fans to get their Mickey ears in a bunch.

Purists are crying foul.  Many are saying that it's just Disney trying to advertise (although, if you're already in the park, I think that job is done), and protest groups have formed.  Seriously.  Think about that for a minute.  People have joined protest groups against it's a small world.  I'd link to one, but they all seem to have disappeared.  If anyone finds one, please send it to me.  I'd love to get their side of the story.

Now, I can't post any pictures here, due to copyright, but here's a link to some fantastic shots.  You can also find more here, here, here, and here.  I'd like to know what you guys think.  Personally, I'm a little mixed about it.  Some of the characters fit in beautifully, and a few even blend into the background.  I'm a little sad that my surfer boy is gone, but Lilo and Stitch have replaced him, and I'm okay with that.  The Three Caballeros seem a little too far centerstage, and Cinderella seems completely out of place.  I'm really not sure how I feel about it.  I love when rides are renovated--really!  Like anything else, rides grow stale without freshening up.  In this case, though, I don't really see the point, and I'm afraid it's detracting from the overall message.  On the other hand, little kids sure seem to like it, and really, isn't that what it's there for?  Let me know your opinions in the comments section.   

Well, I messed up this morning, and forgot to pull anything out of the magic bag o' samples.  I was running late for my hair appointment, and coffee trumped experimenting.  Please forgive me.

Anyway, so as to not leave anyone hanging (in the event anybody even cares about the sample of the day), I thought I'd tell you about the cool stuff Jessica, my stylist, put in my hair.  I don't own this, and therefore don't use it everyday, so you could argue that, technically (love all the commas!), this might be considered a sample.  Sort of.

Jessica sprayed my damp hair down with Agadir Argan Oil Spray Treatment.  According to sleekhair.com:

This spray treatment is ideal for applying to longer hair lengths for ease in coverage, enabling protection from heat appliances and a smoother comb through. Agadir Argan Oil Spray Treatment instantly repairs and adds elasticity to dry, damaged, frizzy hair. It hydrates, conditions, smooths and shines.

Yes.  Yes, it does.  My hair feels amazing, my curls are shiny, and there is not one single frizzy hair on my head.  It's not the first time she's used it on me, and the results are always the same.  Retails for $23.99 for 5.1oz, sleekhair.com, and I highly recommend it.

Trim the Front, and Give a Little Back

Photo by Huffington Post

This is pretty much what my hair looks like right now.  What's sad is that this look probably took some hairdresser at Copenhagen's Fashion Week an hour or so to style, while I can achieve the effect simply by waking up in the morning. 

I either need a haircut or a modeling agent in Denmark.  Considering I'm 5'3" and klutzy, I've booked an appointment with the lovely and talented Miss Jessica for a cut and color tomorrow morning.  Just about everything she touches turns to gorgeous, it's ridiculous.

I think we can all agree that a good haircut can do wonders for your self-esteem.  What most of us probably don't realize, though, is that a good haircut can also do wonders for the community, and, in some cases, change lives.

Photo by Tulsa World

A cool cut was tops on my little brother's back-to-school list.  He's 12 and starting the 7th Grade, so it's very important to him that he look awesome on the first day back.  Luckily for him, our mom was able to take him to a really nice salon and get him the cut he wanted.  A lot of kids are not that fortunate, but, thankfully, there are kind and generous people out there to help.  Yesterday, for example, student stylists at the Tulsa Technology Center's Peoria Campus in Oklahoma volunteered their services to about 500 school-aged kids.  These were not just your run-of-the-mill bowl cuts, either.  There were fauxhawks and shaved-in designs for boys, and braids and curls for little girls.  The event, the 18th annual, was a win-win situation, since it gave the students a chance to practice their skills as they helped out the youngsters.  Stories like this help me keep my faith in humanity.

There are times, though, when a good haircut can be more than just a confidence booster.  There are two amazing women in the Ukraine who are using cosmetology as a means to keep orphaned and disadvantaged teenaged girls off the streets and out of harm.  Anya Afanasenko and Sandra Wagner (student and director, respectively) of the Gill-Tech Academy of Hair Design in Kerch, Ukraine founded the Dream Project, an educational program to teach cosmetology to these less fortunate young ladies, in the hopes of giving them the foundation for lasting careers.  According to Wagner:

Because they leave the orphanages and internats at 16 and have little or no education or life skills, it is stated that 80 percent of these young women end up in prostitution or involved with human trafficking.

Through the Dream Project at the Hope Center, Afanasenko and Wagner hope these young women will be able to take their new-found skills and make lives for themselves.  As Afanasenko said, "Every person in Ukraine needs a haircut."

The original plan was to send a few girls to the United States to learn, then have them come home to work.  Unfortunately, it was impossible to secure visas, as there was no reason for the ladies to return to Ukraine.  Salons in Kerch educate through apprenticeships, and none have been willing to take on orphans.

The pilot program should begin in Fall 2011, and could enroll anywhere from 7-30 girls, dependent upon available instructors.  For more information, visit The Dream Project on Facebook.  You can also donate through Global Action online at www.globalaction.com (specify that funds are earmarked for the Dream Project) or by mail: Global Action, 7660 Goddard St., Colorado Springs, CO 80920-8944. (Write "The Dream Project" in the memo line).

Okay, folks.  Now it's time to reach into the old magic bag o' samples!  Today's pick:  Dr. Dennis Gross Hydra-Pure™ Vitamin C Brightening Serum.  According to Sephora:

This potent and effective Vitamin C serum was created to deliver all three necessary forms of Vitamin C to each layer of the skin and works well with the lipid- and water-absorbing skin layers. Restores damage from aging, sun, stress, and poor diet as it organifies heavy metals found in tap water.

Okay.  Sure.  Whatevs.  I have two, maybe three applications in my little pack, so obviously, I'm not going to get to witness its long-term results.  This review is strictly off of one application.  Alrighty, here we go. 

The serum is very thick.  It looks and smells like vanilla icing, which is not unpleasant, just not what I was expecting from something labeled "Vitamin C".  The directions said to apply to clean skin, so I slathered it on right after my shower, and was a little taken aback.  It goes on almost exactly like my silicone-based Tarte primer.  I checked the ingredients, and second on the list is cyclomethicone, a silicone-based oil.  I really didn't know, at this point, if I should even use a primer.  It's a very hot, humid day, and I didn't want my makeup to run, but my skin was completely coated in this very thick, satiny serum.  Who was to say that stuff wasn't going to melt off, anyway?  Plus, would my face even be able to breathe with all those heavy layers? 

I decided, in the interest of science (or whatever), to just go about my usual routine, as if nothing had changed, however, I did opt to skip my moisturizer.  The serum is not a moisturizer, but it's the same basic step in my makeup routine.  I applied my under eye de-puffer, my lightest primer, foundation, eyeshadow primer, eyeshadow, a cream blush, powder bronzer, mascara, and concealer.  I decided to skip powder, except to set the concealer.  It's so hot outside, and I was sure it would just end up being pointless.  On days like this, I generally end up blotting off sweat and oil (lovely, I know), no matter what I do to avoid it. 

Fast-forward to 3:00pm.  Um...my makeup is flawless.  There is no oil on my face, whatsoever.  My skin looks bright and fresh, and even younger than usual.  I normally can't tell any difference with anti-aging products, but I can with this one.  It's not drastic, but it's noticeable if you're looking for it.

Now, the not-so-good news:  it's $95 for 1oz. at Sephora.com.  Yikes.  Now, if you try a sample and love it and have the money, or if you're dermatologist recommends it, that's one thing.  If you're just looking for something that you can use as, or in conjuction with a primer that has a boost of brightening, age-preventing Vitamin C, might I make a suggestion?  The Body Shop has a Vitamin C Skin Boost that, while I have not tried it, many users report similar results to that of the Dr. Gross serum.  It's a much more wallet-friendly $26 for 1oz., and  it received a 9.3 out of 10 member rating at TotalBeauty.com.  Who says pretty has to be expensive?

Good Idea, Bad Idea

Hey kids!  It's time for another Good Idea, Bad Idea! 

Good Idea:  Charging your iPod by walking around the room a couple of times.

Photo by Science Daily

One day, that might be possible.  Scientists at the University of Southampton are working on a film that, when screened onto textiles like clothing or carpet, could harness its surrounding energy (like heat and motion) and use it to power personal electronics.  That means, in theory, the mp3 player you take to the gym could be powered, not by batteries, but by your jog on the treadmill, or on lazier days (okay, most days), by shuffling around on treated carpet.

Right now, according to Dr. Steve Beeby at the University's School of Electronics and Computer Science, the two biggest challenges his team faces are supplying the harvested power to devices, and making sure the fabric can withstand a trip through the washer.  Research begins in October, and is expected to continue through 2015, so it might not be too far off, but don't toss your chargers just yet. 

Bad Idea:  Cutting a hole in your floor and calling it a chair.

Many moons ago, when I was probably early high school-age, my dad made the horrible mistake of attempting to pull Christmas decorations out of the attic during an Alabama football game.  Well, someone scored (no idea who), and it startled Daddy so much that he stepped through the attic floor and into the annals of family history.  Now, when I think back on the image of Daddy dangling through the bedroom ceiling, I tend to recall Mom laughing hysterically and Daddy swearing up a storm.  I do not, however, think, "wow, he sure looked comfy."   

Photo by Decker Yeadon

Apparently, I should have.  See, some dumba--I mean, designer--at Decker Yeadon in New York has "designed" (I use that term extremely loosely) the OOoo Chair.  Now, if you want specifics, you can visit their site, but the short version is:  between the energy used to build it, and the amount that ends up thrown into landfills, furniture is an environmental hazaard, therefore, we should all sit, not on the floor, but in the floor.  Wait...what? 

You know, I could kind of go with sitting on the floor, but these guys propose getting out a router and cutting two holes in the floor, then placing their specially designed rings (that's the part they designed, in case you were wondering) in the holes .  You then put your legs through the holes and let them dangle while you sit comfortably (?) on the floor.  The pieces of floor that you cut out can later be used as plugs for the holes when the "chair" is not in use.

A few issues:  First of all, why can't we just sit on the floor?  I have a lovely bean bag, or is that environmentally unfriendly, as well?  How about a pillow?  Do my legs really have to dangle through the floor?

Secondly, if my legs do have to dangle through the floor, is this only for single story homes?  Otherwise, you have the strangest chandaliers in every room.  I mean, it might make an interesting conversation piece, but I can't imagine a time when it could ever not be disturbing to see a leg coming through your ceiling, especially if that ceiling is in the bathroom.  Oh--and what about wiring?  And ceiling fans?  And plumbing?  And what's really under my house?  Do I want my feet down there? 

Thirdly, I'm going to assume that renters will still have to be environmentally unfriendly, because I can't imagine a landlord that would be okay with cutting holes in the floors.  I mean, talk about kissing your security deposit goodbye!  Let's look at this from a homeowner's perspective:  why would I want to devalue my house?  It's hard enough to sell a house right now!  Why would I want to do anything (like deface beautiful hardwood floors) to make it more difficult to sell for less money?

As I have said before, I'm all for saving the planet.  I just think we need to use common sense in our efforts. 

And now, today's trip into the magic bag o' samples!  This morning, in my ongoing endeavor to use all of my many, many samples, I selected Givenchy's Hot Couture Eau de Parfum.  $22-$87, Sephora.com.

According to Sephora:

Like Haute Couture fashion, Hot Couture is a glamorous yet sophisticated fragrance. Through sensuality and warmth Hot Couture creates an elegance that can only be equated with couture runway fashion. Sweet raspberry nectar, magnolia, and ambered vetiver combine to bewitch us with vibrant, confident, and passionate femininity.  

I definitely got the sweet raspberry nectar.  Wearing this fragrance is almost like wearing cotton candy, it's so sweet.  Of course, I happen to like sweet perfumes, so this is right up my alley.  It's also very long-wearing, and has a perfect 5-star user rating at Sephora.com.  As for a recommendation, if you like sweet, go for it.  If not, run far, far away.

SQUEE!!!

Very rarely do I squee. I might giggle. I might coo. I'll most probably let out an awwwww, but rarely, if ever, do I squee. For this, I made an exception:

OH MY GOD, HOW CUTE IS THAT?!?! I WANT ONE!!!!!!!!! I think it's the tiny curl that grabbed my heart and put it in a choke hold.

I actually saw this little guy on a recent trip to Toys 'R' Us. He's $8.99, and yes, I squeed. It greatly embarrassed Thomas, and I felt silly, but then...well, then I saw his little friend:

SQUEE!!!!!!!!! I HAVE TO HAVE THEM!!!!! I will put them on my guest room bed, and they can protect the room from all sorts of evil. I've had my eye on Thomas' Jack Sparrow action-figure for some time now, and he's bad news. These little guys and the Bruce Campbell figure can guard the Care Bear from danger!

Wow. Um...I'm so sorry. I don't know what came over me. I just...OH MY GOD, THERE'S ANOTHER!

I really don't know how much more I can...NO WAY!!!!

That's it. No more Toys 'R' Us. My little heart can't handle it.

Moving on. Ahem. Today, folks, you get a two-fer out of the old magic bag o' samples. Lucky you. To start with, I just received a deluxe sample of Make Up For Ever's HD Microfinish Blush in Quickie. Apparently, I am never going to run out of samples. They just keep 'em comin'. Anyway, it looked interesting, so I thought I'd give it a go and see what happened.

First off, it's a cream blush that comes in a pump. This is just a sample, but it's in packaging identical to the full-sized product, and I swear, this Make Up For Ever is going to last me forever. All you need is a miniscule amount to start with, and you can build color intensity from there. It's always easier to add than take away, and this stuff is highly pigmented. If you use too much, you might as well see if the circus is hiring.

Secondly, the color is very similar to NARS Powder Blush in Orgasm, which is what I normally wear (sorry, Mom, I didn't name it). If you've used that, then you know where this is going. For those of you who haven't tried the NARS blush, it's universally flattering, won a bajillion awards, and is probably the most natural-looking color you're going to find. MUFE's Quickie's peachy-pink color is so close it's scary.

Now, would I recommend it? That depends. If you want this particular shade, then no. I would suggest going with the NARS. They have it in powder and cream versions, it's the same price, and there's no pump to deal with. While I should note that I had no issue with the packaging, the pump design seems to be a major bone of contention among users who have reviewed the product. It tends to dispense more product than is needed, so you either end up wasting a lot, or you look like Bozo. Neither option is particularly appealing.

However, if you want to try out different shades, just happen to prefer cream blushes, and have no problem with pump dispensers, then go right ahead. The blush is lightweight, buildable, and long-lasting. I forgot to put on primer this morning (bad, Erin!), and my cheeks are still rosy. It's a good blush, and one that I'll continue to use. I probably won't ever buy it, but it's not getting thrown out. $25, Sephora.com.

Okay, Sample #2: Buxom Lips in Amber. It's Buxom, so it's awesome. Smooth feel, tons of shine, and a color that is, again, a lovely peachy-pink. It makes your lips look polished, but not overly done. I can't recommend this lipgloss enough. $18, Sephora.com.

*Photos by Toys 'R' Us

Pretty Is As Pretty Does

Photo by Styleta

Here at Adorable Napalm, we discuss beauty, fashion, pop culture, and all things adorable.  As much fun as that is, sometimes I feel like I get so caught up in the cool, pretty products on here, that I ignore the fact that not everything in the world is fun, cool, and pretty.  Luckily, there is at least one group out there who has taken its love of fashion and turned it into a way to better the community and help out some budding designers along the way.

Styleta is an online boutique, specializing in designer clothing at fantastic discounts (i.e. $110 Guess heels marked down to $29.99!).  That, in and of itself, is really cool.  What makes it awesome, is that all clothing is donated--either by individuals, stores, or designers--and all sale proceeds go directly to non-profits and women's initiatives.  Now, what makes this exceptional, is that it's run by a bunch of college kids.

That's right.  According to their website:

Styleta is a nonprofit network of college students who collect donations of designer fashion to sell online in order to raise funding for women's initiatives. We utilize fashion and e-commerce as a new and innovative method of obtaining financial capital for charities. 

Well, now.  How about that?  Styleta has donation sites at Harvard, New York, and Indiana Universities, with pickup at select nearby locations.  You can also mail in small donations if you're like me, and not living in that area.  Don't think that makes this a run-of-the-mill thrift store, though.  Styleta prefers new or gently-worn, clean, stylish or designer in-season clothing.  No moth-riddled Christmas sweaters from 1978 here.

But wait!  There's more!  As if helping out non-profits wasn't enough, these guys are working to help new designers gain exposure through their site.  Right now, Styleta is sponsoring a competition, where some seriously talented fashion design students are duking it out to see which one will have their design auctioned off for charity.  Okay, so maybe "duking it out" is a little extreme.  The designs are posted, and you can vote for your favorite.  The designer with the most votes wins.  I already have my favorite, but I won't say which one. 

Oh, in case you're still not impressed, Styleta is also helping the environment.  Every item of clothing donated and sold through the site amounts to one less pound of trash being thrown into a landfill.  Is there no end to their awesomeness?

Alrighty, if you're just joining the fun over here at AN, I've been on a mission to actually use all the samples I've been hording for what seems like forever.  Today, I reached into the magic bag o' samples and pulled out Buxom Lips in Dolly.  Well, in Dolly and Amber, actually, but I can only wear one at a time.  Well, I could wear both together, but not for testing purposes.

If you've ever read this blog before, you know I'm a Buxom devotee, and Buxom Lips is about all I ever wear.  According to Sephora, Buxom:

Naturally creates the look of fuller, more voluptuous lips. This mineral-infused polish imparts a luminous high shine with no sticky or tacky feeling. A deep infusion of antioxidant vitamins A and E help keep lips soft, smooth, and protected, while the tingly and cooling sensation reminds you that your lips are getting an immediate increase in fullness.

I can't swear that it plumps anything (never known a plumper that did, really), but it feels fantastic, lasts a good, long time, and the shine is phenomenal.  It's my gloss of choice, and my first recommendation to anyone.

Dolly is very pretty.  It's described as "shimmering muted plum", and it's basically the more opaque version of my go-to favorite, Clair.  In the tube the gloss is purple, but on your lips it's a beautiful baby pink with a hint of blue.  Final verdict:  it's gorgeous.  $18, Sephora.com.

One more thing:  if you want to try Buxom, and you want to do something to make the world a better place, you can do both at the same time.  A portion of the proceeds from every sale of Charity, the cherry red shade in Buxom's diamond (sheer and sparkly) collection, goes to the American Heart Association.  Now, that's something to smile about.

Do Not Adjust Your Monitors

Photo by Dissizit

You can't escape it.  It's everywhere;  infiltrating your movies, your televisions, even your very senses.  There is No. Way. Out.  Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the young men's department...T-SHIRTS!  IN 3-D!!!

I don't know about anyone else, but I've just about had enough of the 3D craze.  The movies give me a headache, cost way too darn much, and now, even televisions are getting in on the game.  I have a hard enough time keeping up with the remote!  How on Earth am I going to keep up with glasses, too?  I lose my sunglasses on a daily basis, as it is!  This is really getting to be a little much.

But now, as if movies and television weren't enough, the latest items to fall prey to the 3D monster are t-shirts.  Middle Eastern design house, Splash, is using 3D technology as a major part of the print campaign for their Autumn 2010 collection, with 3D ads (complete with glasses) in magazines, models sporting the specs on the runway, and, of course, a special limited edition t-shirt with 3D glasses hang-tag.  No word on pricing or U.S. availability as of posting. 

However, if you're in the States and just dying for a 3D t-shirt, you're in luck.  California-based company, Dissizit, has a series of 3D shirts available.  You can find them here for $32 a piece, but be warned:  I'm only showing one of the shirts in this post because I try to run a clean site.  They're not exactly family-friendly, if you catch my drift.

And now, for today's dip into the magic bag o' samples!  In case you're just joining us, I have an enormous stash of samples.  Everyday, I pick one at random (or not) and try it out, then review it here.  Today's pick:  Zirh Clean Face Wash.

Here's what Sephora has to say about it:

Zirh Clean is a clarifying cleanser that uses a triad of alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic from sugar cane, malic from apples, and lactic from milk) to cut through dirt, pollution, and oil. Clean washes away debris and acne-causing bacteria, while gently removing a layer of dead skin cells to uncover new, smoother looking skin. It also multitasks as a shaving cream.

Well...this is embarrassing.  I had no idea.  Zirh is a men's line.  Oops.  There is absolutely nothing on the sample packaging that denotes gender specificity, and according to the user reviews, I'm not the only girl who used it accidentally.  Oh well.

I have to say, I really liked it.  It smells like lemons and menthol, lathers beautifully, and removes every trace of makeup--including mascara and eyeliner (yes, I was bad and failed to wash my face last night.  Sue me).  The cleanser cools your skin (which was much appreciated since my air-conditioner died and it's a million degrees inside my apartment), and leaves a slight tingle after it's rinsed off.  Zirh left my skin super clean, exfoliated, and feeling fresh.  I don't care if it's for men;  my husband can fend for himself this time.  I'm a Philosophy girl, normally, but Zirh is making me take a second look at my usual routine. 

The cleanser retails for $20 for 8oz. at Sephora.com, and comes in a really cool metal bottle.  This seems to be the sticking point for most of the users who reviewed it.  The cleanser is really thick, and the bottle's design makes it difficult to dispense the product.  Most have asked the company to please package it with a pump.  My suggestion:  go to the store, buy a lotion pump, and repackage the cleanser yourself.  Bonus:  you can make the new bottle as girly as you want.  Take that, Zirh!
 

Bicycles and Butterflies

I'm all for living green.  I try to conserve gas and water, reuse containers, and avoid styrofoam whenever possible.  I even got some of those little grocery bags for shopping, and one day, by gum, I'm going to remember to take them with me.  Green is a lifestyle change, and one that I'm trying to adopt, albeit slowly and clumsily.  Some people, however, have taken to it like ducks to water, and can make anything eco-friendly, it seems.  I'm in awe of these people.

Photo by Ecouterre

For example:  a fashion designer and a landscape architect (two great tastes that go great together?) were asked to create an eco-friendly cross-over work of art for the Amsterdam Center for Architecture.  What they came up with was a "living" dress created from wool and bicycle innertubes (read:  not a Summer dress).  The innertubes create a smocked effect which is, in actuality, a series of vases that can be filled with whatever type flower or plant you desire.  Change the flowers, and you change the entire look of the gown.  This is obviously not something the average fashionista is going to hang in her closet, but as a work of art, it's an astonishingly beautiful reminder that anything can be reused.  These bicycle innertubes could have gone into a landfill, but instead are helping to sustain life and bring beauty into the world.  Really makes you think.

Photo by Ecouterre

This next dress, were it not in the Science Museum in London, could make a coccoon in my closet any old day.  At first glance, this sweet little cobalt blue day dress looks like any ordinary dress...except, it's not cobalt blue.  It's not any shade of blue.  In fact, it's not any shade of anything.  This dress is completely colorless, and the fact that it looks blue is merely a trick of the light.  The fabric used to make the dress is called Morphotex, and was created to mimic the microscopic structure of the Morpho butterfly's wing.  Sixty different polyester and nylon fibers in alternating layers produce the color through light reflection.  It's nanotechnology at it's prettiest.

Now, in case you're new to Adorable Napalm, I'm in the middle of a self-inflicted mission to get through my ridiculous stash of samples.  Everyday, I try something new and review it here.  It's generally a one-shot trial, so all opinions are based on first reactions.  Today, I reached into the magic bag o' samples and pulled out Michael Kors Very Hollywood Eau de Parfum. 

It's what I would call understated elegance.  The fragrance is mostly floral with just a hint of citrus.  It's light, not too sweet, not too flowery, and not too "little old lady".  Best of all, it hasn't given me a headache.  I'm not rushing out to buy a bottle, but it's going on my short list for future reference.  $45 for 1oz. at Sephora.com.  There's also a rollerball option available for $18.

Now, I'm going to preach for a second.  This morning, when I grabbed the Michael Kors out of the bag, I noticed that I have a sample of Chanel.  My first thought was, "Oh!  I'll have to save that for a special occasion!"  Then, I thought about how I'd spent my morning cleaning out cabinets, getting ready to move into a new apartment, and how I'd thrown away a garbage bag full of expensive, beautiful products that I'd put up for special occasions.  They'd been "too pretty to use", and ended up turning rancid and going to waste.  Then, I thought about the fancy hand cream that I gave my grandmother for Mother's Day last year, and how it was still sitting on her dresser, unopened, when I went to pick up an outfit for her funeral a few months later.  It had been "too pretty to use".

Life is a special occasion.  Every day that we wake up and breathe in and out should be celebrated.  Break out the bath salts and aromatherapy candles you got for Christmas, or the way-too-expensive body lotion you got for your birthday.  Wear those awesome heels you bought on sale, even though you couldn't think of a reason to wear them (they'll probably look hot with jeans, right?).  Whatever it is you're hanging onto, enjoy it!  It's only going to go to waste if you don't, and what good does that do?  If you use it, the worst that will happen is that you'll use it up.  Big deal.  It's only a thing, and can always be replaced--maybe with something even better.  All I know is that tomorrow, I'm celebrating Tuesday, and maybe with Chanel.

 

Yeah, But Have You Tried It With Pink Floyd?

Well, as ususal, I'm a day late and a dollar short.  Apparently, yesterday was the 71st Anniversary of The Wizard of Oz.  Who knew (well, besides Google, the news stations, Thomas, and, it seems, the entire rest of the world)?

Five years ago, I had the opportunity to tour the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, MN.  The museum is a precious little Mom & Pop organization that just so happens to house hundreds of items of WOO memorabilia, music scores, photos, costumes, and Judy Garland's childhood home.  It's adorable.  When I went, there was one little old lady working there.  I don't think she'd ever seen a digital camera before.  Honestly, I'm not entirely sure she'd ever seen a camera that didn't require flash powder.  This was museum security.

The house was a hoot.  Instead of the informational plaques that you usually find in museums, there were computer printouts laying on the furniture--mostly to tell us that the furniture was not what was originally in the home, but they thought this furniture might possibly be similar, and may have even been in the right spots.  My favorite printout was the one on the bed in the master bedroom.  It described in grizzly detail exactly how Judy's mother passed away, and even where her dentures landed when she hit the ground.  Now, that's something you don't see everyday.

The best part of the museum, though, had to be the first thing I saw when I entered:  a printout on a pedastal.  Just a printout, and nothing else.  The printout stated that this pedastal had once displayed one of the six pair of Ruby Slippers made for the film, but that they had recently been stolen.  If anyone knew of their whereabouts, please inform security (a.k.a. the little old lady at the front desk).  I hate that the slippers were stolen, but I absolutely love that they were displaying a "Lost:  Reward if Found" poster, as if it were a lost bicycle, and not an historic piece of movie memorabilia worth an exhorbitant amount of money. 

As of this afternoon, the slippers have not been recovered.  My money's on the competing Judy Garland museum down the street.  I bet they have them tucked away somewhere.  But, seeing as these slippers are gone, presumably for good, I thought I'd find us a few replacements.

Photo by Barnes & Noble

I'll get you my pretty...and read your diary, too!  The witch, the shoes, the poppies, and those awesome striped stockings all combine to make a beautiful place to write down all your "wicked" thoughts (I know, I know.  Don't blame me for the pun.  I stole it from one of the customer reviews).  $12.95, barnesandnoble.com.

Photo by QVC

Here's a bauble for the Oz lover who's too old to actually wear ruby slippers.  Kirk's Folly designed this crystal and enamel bracelet, incorporating the Emerald City, a rainbow, the Wicked Witch of the west, the Cowardly Lion, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, Toto, ruby slippers, stars, a magic wand, and Glinda the Good Witch.  See how many you can pick out.  $58.50, qvc.com.

Photo by Amazon

Here's a pretty little lady.  This Dorothy was designed by Madame Alexander to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the film.  The 10" Cissette doll comes dressed in contemporary clothing, and features 8 points of articulation.  The most darling feature:  three pair of ruby slippers.  It looks like Dorothy may have found Oz's version of Rodeo Drive!  $139.95, Amazon.com.

Photo by idotakeu

This is one of the most gorgeous bridal bouquets I have ever seen.  I'm normally the first to see faux flowers and scream, "tacky!!", but this one is exceptionally well done.  The flowers are handcrafted from satin ribbon, then accented with ruby-colored crystals.  The handle is wrapped in satin, and topped off with a tiny pair of ruby slippers.  $119.99, etsy.com.   

Photo by ecrater

Ha!  Proof positive that no matter how fabulous the shoe, sometimes you just have to kick them off!  If you look very closely, you'll see that Dorothy is wearing boots.  The witch may not have been able to remove them, but behold, the power of the blister!  The giggle is free, but the 8x10 photo reproduction will set you back $5 on ecrater.com.
Alright, now for today's sample review.  I reached in the magic bag o' samples and pulled out Smashbox's Photo Finish Foundation Primer, SPF 15.  Retail price $42 for 1oz. at Sephora.com.  Short version:  I'm not crazy about it.  It's, well...slimy.  My Tarte primer is very dry, and my Benefit primer is very light.  This was the exact opposite of both.  It was very thick and very wet, and I really wish I'd not put on moisturizer first.  I actually had to let the primer dry a bit before I could put on my foundation, and then I was really afraid that it was going to get mixed in with the foundation when I applied that with a sponge.  Final verdict:  My makeup looks fine.  It hasn't melted or creased, so the primer's doing it's job, but there are other primers out there that are way less expensive and way less icky.  I'm using them.