Realizing I had Fallen Into a Hole When Everything Got Dark

Perspective: Being able to look up & the sun, doesn't mean that I'm not actually in a hole.

This isn't your average, sorry I haven't been posting in a while update.

A couple of weeks ago, I was in a very dark place. Hubby & I were staring down a very difficult decision about money, living expenses, and the realities of continuing to reside in CA. I couldn't focus on comps; I couldn't focus on much of anything except bringing money into the budget.

From a very young age, I listened to my mom fret about money. I knew that she was putting money into retirement, into emergency funds, into every nook & cranny you can imagine. In the 1980's, my mom was like a squirrel prepping for a Canadian winter.

I feel compelled to take care of my household. I don't always know how to squirrel it away very well; I'm still learning. But I have a deep desire to make money. Being in graduate school and having everyone around me who loves me constantly taking me by the shoulders and pointing my nose towards the books is making my provider-instinct crazy.

A couple of weeks ago, everything hit critical mass. I started a new business as a Jamberry Independent Consultant. I've been throwing parties on Facebook (wonder what that is? send me a message), and selling nail wraps like a crazy person (wanna know more? message me!). In the middle of all that insanity, hubby and I decided that it would be a great idea to completely rearrange our living room.  Mind you, our living room is also our dining area and my study. So, it was like moving around 3 rooms in the space of one small living room. 

Then, the sun went down. And I realized that just because I saw the sun during the day, didn't mean I wasn't buried in work and stress, which in many ways, I piled on all by myself.  Now, I'm in the midst of crawling out of the hole.  Apparently I fell in and didn't realize it until the sun went down, and everything got dark.

Maybe I suck at life? Maybe its just that I chase butterflies, because I'm afraid of the female-in-the-academy-box that will become my fate if I'm not careful? Maybe I'm just tired of being a poor grad student?

A Perfectly Natural Way to Cleanse!

I always have my hands in some kind of hair product, makeup, etc., and I have found that not every soap is created equal when trying to get my skin clean!

I've been using Foxbrim's Perfect Natural Soap for a few weeks, and I'm in love. This is my new go-to hand soap!

Foxbrim's Perfect Natural Soap Product Description:

- 100% Natural & 98% Organic: utilizes only exquisite hand-picked botanical ingredients. 

- Safe for the most sensitive skin types. No synthetic agents!

- Perfect for face, body & hair! Removes makeup, excess oils, evens skin tone!

- Absolutely NO fillers, fragrances, detergents, lathering agents, parabens, phthalates, silicones, sodium lauryl sulfate, or triclosan.

- Backed by an Amazing, No Questions-Asked Guarantee!

What I Love about Foxbrim's Perfect Natural Soap:

- I enjoyed using this as a facial cleanser; I'm still going to remain loyal to my oil cleanser, but this works really nicely!

- I love that the soap lathers nicely without additives!

- It quickly dissolves my hair styling products, washes away makeup that gets on my hands during application, and gets my hands clean without drying out my skin!

- The pump dispenser is lovely!

- Its a soap that even my hubby can love since there's no scent!

- I highly recommend this soap & wash!

You can find Foxbrim's Perfect Natural Soap & Wash on Amazon!

Affiliate Link

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Tomoson.com and made possible by Foxbrim.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

Influenster Refresh VoxBox Products Review!

I had a lot of fun with my very first Influenster VoxBox!  Here are my thoughts on the products inside!

Beanitos Chips:

My Thoughts:

- I LOVE the Nacho Cheese Flavor!

- Perfect snack food!

- Sea Salt Flavor is not really my thing at all! I can really taste the beans, and I don't like that. :-(

Orgain Protein Shake:

I'm super bummed that I couldn't find this product at my local grocery store! *sad face*

CoverGirl Ultra Smooth Foundation:

Thoughts:

- Impressively smooth!

- Great coverage!

- Surprised by how much I like the applicator!

L'Occitane Shea Butter Light Comforting Cream:

Thoughts:

- Light & creamy!

- Highly Moisturizing without feeling super greasy!

- Smells wonderful!

- A little bit goes a long way!

- Beautiful packaging

- LOVE the size of this deluxe sample!

I had a total blast at the L'Occitane Free Mini-Facial Event through Influenster! I even scored my free gift with $50 purchase!

Montagne Jeunesse Facial Masque:

Thoughts: 

- Easy to open & apply

- Smells divine!

- Cleans out my pores!

- The peel off nature of this mask makes for very easy removal and cleanup!

- My skin feels totally soft afterwards!

SkinnyGirlDaily Nutrition Bar:

 

Thoughts:

- Holy Sh*t this is good!

- Perfect mix of sweet, nut & salt!

- Will buying a box asap!

Listerine PocketPacks:

Thoughts:

- Fresh Breath, FAST!

- Long lasting!

- Easy to carry!

DenTek Comfort Flossers:

Thoughts:

- Easy & Painless Flossing

- Soft, Durable & Effective Flossing Tape

- Nice & light minty flavor

- Fantastic Pick End!

Interested in joining Influenster? I'd love it if you used my referral link! 

#SuzanneSaturday ~ Taking a Day to Rest

Sundown to Sundown is how many celebrate a day of rest, the Sabbath.  Whether one rests on one particular day each week, or whichever day one can possibly get some down time for the practice of rest, I think we can all agree that rest is very important.

Rest looks different, feels different, and is practiced differently from person to person, community to community, across the globe.

But we all need rest.

Need some suggestions?  Here are mine:

Take some time to pamper yourself! Try out a face mask, draw a hot bath, listen to some music!

    

Go take a walk!  Enjoy the sun and the scenery where you live!  Get a little exercise and some fresh air.  Take pics as you go so you remember how much fun this was!

      

Sunshine is a great way to fight depression!  Exercise can help relieve anxiety!

Spend time with your family & friends!  Do something together you all enjoy; walk together, play a game, go bowling, play a round of mini-golf, visit a museum, or just cuddle on the couch!

     

Whatever you do today, I hope that you can take some time to rest, or at least put "Rest Time" on your calendar for this week!  We have to take care of ourselves!

Hugs,

Suzanne, the Laughing Scholar

Uplifting Beauty's Resurrect Anti-Aging Moisturizer

I am a huge fan of finding your absolute best moisturizer for your skin right now.  I think its very easy to get bogged down using the exact same products over and over again.  Its important to branch out and try new products, especially as your skin ages and develops new needs!

That's why I'm so excited about this Anti-Aging Moisturizer, Resurrect, by Uplifting Beauty!  I feel like its the perfect moisturizer for skin that is in that stage where preventing fine lines is key!

Product Description:

- Helps reduce the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

- Specifically formulated to provide skin elasticity and structural lift

- Premium ingredients help the skin absorb and hydrate at a deep level

- Non Irritating Skin Rejuvenation Cream safe for all skin types

- Brights your skin to produce a healthy glow

- May help enhance skin's defenses and prevent future damage

- 100% Money Back Guarantee!

What I Love about Resurrect Moisturizer by Uplifting Beauty:

- Lightweight and nongreasy formula is great for daytime use under makeup or for nighttime use when paired with a serum!

- Fantastic pump dispenser and attractive bottle!

- Pleasant scent from ingredients such as Peppermint Oil, Green Tea Extract, and Witch Hazel Extract!

- Leaves skin feeling fresh, moisturized, and rejuvenating!

- My skin loves this moisturizer!  Its just heavy enough without being too heavy!

You can find Resurrect Moisturizer by Uplifting Beauty on Amazon for $29.95 for 1 fl oz bottle.  This might feel a bit on the more expensive side; however, if you're looking for something light weight to prevent or address fine lines, this is definitely a product I'd recommend considering!

Final Verdict: Yay! (but a little expensive for me)

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Tomoson.com and made possible by Uplifting Beauty.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

Youthful Glow from an Ancient Source!

I have recently gained a greater appreciation for a skin care practice that I regularly have neglected: the facial mask.

I've enjoyed other mud masks, so I was very excited about the opportunity to review Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask.

Product Description:

- This ancient mud mask from the Dead Sea contains 100% natural and certified organic ingredients!

- This Dead Sea Mud Mask tightens pores, reduces wrinkles & lines, promotes youthful, healthy skin naturally.

- Weekly use diminishes blemishes, acne, breakouts, pimples, blackheads, eczema and psoriasis.

- Free of sulfates, phosphates, parabens or chemicals of any kind.  Cruelty free and Certified Vegan.

- Free eBook Bonus included with your purchase!

How It Works:

"As this luxurious mud mask gently dries on your face, it draws out excess oils, impurities and grime from your skin.  At the same time your skin is infused with ancient Dead Sea minerals and essentials oils."

What I Love about Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask:

- My skin feels clean and fresh after using this mask!

 - Even days later, my skin still has a healthy glow! My makeup looks better, and skin care products seem to be more effective.

- This product smells very pleasant, and feels very refreshing when applied!

A Few Critiques of Pure & Essential Minerals Mud Mask:

- The Eucalyptus Oil is particularly strong, but it does fade while you're wearing it.

You can find Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask on Amazon for $24.77 for a 6 fl oz jar!

Final Verdict: Yay!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Brandbacker and made possible by Pure & Essential Minerals.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

I'm Launching a New Venture!

I reviewed them, I loved them, I threw a party for them, 

and now I'm hooked!

So, I signed on!

I'd love your support as I launch my new Jamberry business!  If you're interested in more information, please request an add on my launch party!

Just want to check things out on the down-low?

My Jamberry Website is already up & running!

Friday #DIY! Instant Luminous Glowing Skin!

I have recently become a fan of Radha Beauty after reviewing their wonderful skin care regimen. I'm impressed with their high quality products, so I was quite excited about testing out their Argan Oil for a review!

Product Description:

- Only one ingredient! 100% Pure Argan Oil!

- Cold Pressed Virgin Oil to ensure best quality and highest-grade oil for the ultimate healthy glow.

- High quality dropper and ebook included with purchase

- Natural, Unscented, and Lightweight Moisturizer that is perfect for hair, skin and scalp!

- Lifetime Hassle Free Money Back Guarantee!

What I Love about Radha's Argan Oil:

- Argan Oil has so many uses!  
 Apply as Moisturizer after Showering for All Day Moisturized Skin, and use in various DIY recipes for salt/sugar scrubs.

- I appreciate knowing that this is high quality Argan Oil from a company I trust.

- I love the beautiful, cobalt blue bottle that is both attractive and practical.  The dark glass protects the oil from light exposure.

- This oil has a very light scent of argan nuttiness, which is quite pleasant.

- I think that Radha's price for a 4 oz bottle of high quality Argan Oil is very good!





How I Use Radha Beauty's Argan Oil:

 Add to BB Cream for Instant Luminous Glow!

Mix a Pea-Sized Amount of BB Cream with 1 Drop of Argan Oil on your sponge/beauty blender/ blender dupe.

Apply and look effortlessly amazing!

Final Verdict: Yay!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Brandbacker and made possible by Radha Beauty.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

Happy Hair with Foxbrim!

I've shared my love for Foxbrim with you in the past; most of their products are skin care items.  So, I'm really excited about their Total Hair Repair Oil!  Its pretty great!

Product Description:

- Light natural oils nurture hair health from root to tip, strengthening while hydrating.

- Formulated to give you silky, free-free, manageable, soft hair with natural shine.

- Formulated for all hair types!

- Sunflower oil helps to nourish hair and prevent breakage. Organic Argan Oil creates a tight seal for the hair cuticle. Panthenol fills in cracks and fractures. Shea butter builds volume and movement.

- Backed by a 100% money-back guarantee!  Love you results or let us know.  We will offer you a full refund. No questions asked!

What I Love about Foxbrim's Total Hair Repair Oil:

- I love Foxbrim's high quality products, customer service and 100% money back guarantee!

- I used it as a moisturizing 10 minute mask, and my wavy hair is frizz-free & bouncy!

- I'll probably use this as a mask 1-2x/week.

- I can tell that my hair feels silkier and healthier.

A Few Critiques:

- I definitely can't put this on dry hair; its just too heavy for my hair.  So, be aware of that.

- I feel like this hair oil has more of a learning curve about how to use it with my hair than other oils I've worked with in the past.

Overall, I'm quite pleased with this hair oil.  You can find it on Amazon.com for $17.95!  This is a great price compared to other hair oils that cost at least $25-$30.

Verdict: Happy, but really Yay!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Tomoson.com and made possible by Foxbrim.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

Today's Reason to Smile ~ Beautiful Berkeley!

On the way home yesterday, I was struck by the sun sparkling in this creek.  I've walked across the bridge that spans this little trickle of water on the UCB campus hundreds of times.  I love walking through this part of the campus where some of the oldest redwoods in CA call home.

    

I realize that I complain about being in CA a lot.  Maybe not here on the blog, but in real life, I do.  Its hard to be thousands of miles from family, from some of my dearest friends, and right now, my best friend since childhood & her adorable new baby!

But I have to remember that I'm here for a reason and for a season.  Its hard feeling exiled to this far away land sometimes, but I know that I'm doing what I need to do out here.

And sometimes, like last Friday night, I have an opportunity to do something that helps fall in love with being out here and doing this doctoral program all over again.  Such as helping out for a fundraising event for a wonderful organization (CARE) at a beautiful home with a magnificent view.  PLUS, get compensated for taking stunning photos!

Review Teaser ~ Fabulous Makeup from Borghese!

I can't believe that I won this Borghese Oscar Night Giveaway Prize Pack!

My goodies came today, and I couldn't wait to share their beauty with you!

Soon I'll have swatches and a full review with a few of my favorite looks up for you!

Hugs!
Suzanne

Do You Remember to Moisturize Your Décolleté?

One of my new emerging favorite brands is Body Merry.  I am a huge fan of their high quality products as well as their wonderful customer service!

I know that moisturizing my neck and décolleté is an important step in skin care, but I have the hardest time remembering!  So, when Body Merry invited me to review their Age Defense Neck Cream, I thought this would be the perfect time to incorporate that practice into my skin care routine!

Product Description:

- Powerful moisturizer that firms, smoothes, and improves the suppleness and elasticity of your décolleté.

- Provides your skin with its daily staple requirements of vitamins, antioxidants, and AHAs.

- 4% Vitamin C, 5% Glycolic Acid, and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) are supported by powerful and natural organic ingredients such as Plant Derived Hyaluronic Acid, Propolis, Royal Jelly, Cocoa Butter, Jojoba Oil, Green Tea, Avocado Oil, Licorice, Lemongrass, and Rosehip Oil.

- No added fragrances. No harsh chemicals such as parabens, sulfates or phthalates. Never tested on animals

- Backed with a 90 day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee! If you don't like this cream, just contact Body Merry and get a full refund.  No need to return the bottle.

What I Love about Body Merry's Age Defense Neck Cream:

- The skin on my neck and décolleté appears more moisturized, smoother, and healthier.

- I feel more confident when wearing my favorite v-neck shirts and necklaces!

- I enjoy pulling my hair back since the skin on my neck looks so much better!

- The separate bottle for Neck Cream helps me remember to incorporate this step into my nightly beauty routine.

- I feel good that Body Merry incorporates sustainable practices, never tests on animals, and never uses harsh chemicals or added fragrance in their products.

- The product has a pleasant appearance and a fantastic pump dispenser that protects the cream from contamination!

You can find Body Merry's Age Defense Neck Cream on Amazon for $19.99 for a 1.7 fl oz bottle, which is a great price point!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Tomoson.com and made possible by Body Merry.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own.