Blonde + Ombre = Blombre

I don't think I need to do much explaining on the blonde ombre.  The look is trendy yet sensational and effortless.  What do you think about these blombre styles?  I think these are some of the best examples, yet!

Let's do some name dropping, shall we?  Can you recommend any hairstylists in your area that are pros at mastering the ombre look? 

Put the Clutch In

A vibrant clutch adds the perfect amount of flair to any summer outfit.  Realistically, size does matter.  The BIGGER the better.  Don't be afraid to make a serious statement when selecting this must-have summer accessory.  Dare to be bold and invest in an over-sized, envelope-style; neon, floral or sparkly metallic clutch.  Tis the season to strut your stuff; why not carry an attention-grabbing clutch while you're at it?

Drugstore Essentials

Ahhh, there are so many fun and exciting things going on in my life right now and I’m finding it hard to concentrate on what I’m supposed to be doing, momentarily, so I’m writing a blog post in lieu of alternative productive activities!

Drugstore skin care items worth purchasing:

1.   Garnier Skin Naturals Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream

In an effort to lower the cost of my beauty product budget and a desperate need for quality face moisturization; I selected Garnier’s  Skin Naturals Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream as the “summer drink” for my parched face.  I bought this product in anticipation that I would use up the remainder of my daily face moisturizer, Clinique DramaticallyDifferent Gel Moisturizing Gel, sooner than later.  I finally got around to religiously using this gel cream in the evenings and as-needed for daily use and have been awestruck by the quality of this product. This product delivers all the benefits you would find in a designer skin care brand but at a fraction of the price.  The product does an outstanding job locking in moisture and does not make your face appear greasy when worn throughout the day.  This refreshing gel-cream will also help you create that natural, dewy look we all aspire to have!  Don’t let the low sticker-price detour you from buying this product.  At an astounding $8 to $9 per tub, you won’t feel guilty applying liberally and often.  Sit back and watch the magic take place!  I am so happy I discovered this knock-out product.

2.   Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub

This is the absolute perfect “summer” addition to any skin care regimen.  I bought this product because I was looking for a non-invasive alternative to a daily facial scrub.  After peddling over many other alternatives, I’m so glad I chose Neutrogena’s Grapefruit Foaming Scrub.  This product smells magical and couldn’t be more refreshing.  I’ve enjoyed working this scrub into my daily showering regimen.   The product does a good job eliminating the harmful dirt, dead skin and bacteria which are all notorious for creating breakouts.  Additionally, the gentle micro-beads work to polish the skin with visible results.  The product does include some Salicylic Acid acne medicine, but does not cause irritation.  The Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub is a refreshing alternative to other daily facial scrubs and I will definitely repeat the purchase in the future. 

3.   Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Pads

Look no further for removing tough eye makeup then the coveted Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Pads.  I have been using these makeup remover pads for a long time and haven’t found a more effective solution for removing stubborn eye makeup.  The pads are the perfect size and come pre-moistened.  They are composed of a soft solution that doesn’t irritate the eye and is not too oily (which is often the problem with most eye makeup removers).  Before using the product, I would recommend washing the face and using the pad to do the extra “clean up”.  A reliable product at a great price?  There is no better solution!  

I'm curious; what are your favorite drugstore products?

Robust Reading

I have made it to the Pacific NW and what a welcoming relief!  The flight, comfortable.  The people, warm. The scenery, breathtaking.  I am very much looking forward to retracing steps and experiences I once overlooked in my youth.  The PNW has so much to offer and I am feeling a wealth of inspiration! 

Let me tell you about two books that I picked up at Half Price Books a few days ago and have since enjoyed.

Amazon; used from $1.90

(1)    Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn WithoutBlowing It by Peggy Klaus

“It is well-documented that working hard isn't enough to keep your professional star rising: Self-promotion is recognized as one of the most important attributes for getting ahead. But learning to share your talents and successes without coming across as smug or rehearsed is a tricky skill. Now, Peggy Klaus, top communication and leadership coach, has developed a program that will teach anyone to brag - and get away with it. Filled with practical examples of ways in which people in various work-life stages can promote themselves, Klaus teaches readers to communicate strengths and accomplishments without appearing too opportunistic, eager, egotistical or self-aggrandizing. Now anyone can communicate with style and substance - in any situation - and walk away shining like the star they are!”--Amazon

Synopsis:  provides creative and tactical narrative content, pinpoints direct solutions for specific scenarios in the workplace, interactive and engaging, constructive conversation mapping, empowering, confidence-boosting material through and through.

Amazon; used from $0.01

(2)    Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office 101:Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers by Lois P. Frankel,Ph.D.  

“Dr. Lois Frankel reveals why some women roar ahead in their careers while others stagnate. She's spotted a unique set of behaviors--101 in all--that women learn in girlhood that sabotage them as adults. Now, in this groundbreaking guide, she helps you eliminate these unconscious mistakes that could be holding you back--and offers invaluable coaching tips you can easily incorporate into your social and business skills. If you recognize and change the behaviors that say "girl" not "woman", the results will pay off in career opportunities you never thought possible--and in an image that identifies you as someone with the power and know-how to occupy the corner office.” --Amazon

Synopsis: coaching strategies to avoid missed opportunities, critical analysis of inherent and detrimental behaviors of women in the workforce, identification of specific areas for improvement and criticisms to make change, no bullshit self-help book on steroids

What better season for self-improvement then the beautiful months of summer?

Make the most of today!