I'm Shattered Again

I tried the OPI Shatter Polish when it first came out and I wasn't that impressed. However, my mom got her nails done over the weekend with the Black Shatter and a Silver Under Polish and it looks pretty good.

The way shatter works is you apply two coats of regular polish and let it dry completely. You then apply one layer of shatter. The effect is - well, shattering! LOL


I'm thinking of trying it over the holiday season. The colors don't seem to look good for a long time and when I'm in school and get busy, I usually use just a plain polish. However, I only have a couple more weeks left before finals and I'm thinking of treating myself to a professional shatter manicure.


I was thinking Red Polish with Black Shatter. Any other suggestions?

Long Time - No Blog - I'M BACK!!!

And hopefully this time I'll do a better job of keeping up this page. I have been SO busy that I don't know where to begin.

My second year of college has been super crazy. I guess fun is for Freshmen, because I'm in high gear now.

I'm still having a good time but there's definitely more work and less play.

I'm excited to share that I have been taking more music courses and even got up the courage to post a couple of singing videos to my YouTube Channel!! (MakeUpCrazyGirlie).

I am a little behind on the newest trends in makeup, so I plan to take advantage of my Thanksgiving Break to catch up and try some new products.

Look for posts all week.

One thing I've discovered is all the new holiday drinks at Starbucks. Yummy!

Nothing helps me get through a late night of studying like a Peppermint Mocha!!

I hope you can forgive me for being a slacker but I'm starting to feel like a grownup with real responsibilities!

Stay warm in the cold weather!

xoxo,

Simonie

It's Been TOO Long - But, I'm Back!

Hi, Guys!

I know I haven't blogged in forever but this second year of college has started off with a bang. A bang of books, that is.

I can't believe I've already finished by freshman year. So, I won't make excuses but just know that I've missed you like crazy.

I did get a chance to do a little shopping or shall I say "browsing" at the mall this weekend. That is, until I caught this horrible cold that I'm nursing right now.

But while I'm locked up in my dorm room, I wanted to tell you before I forget about this fragrance from Gucci that I just love.

Gucci Flora.

I tested it at Sephora and it smells like flowery goodness!

This will definitely be on my list for Santa.

Don't take my word for it. Stop into Sephora and test it yourself.

And, I promise, I won't ever stay away so long again!

xoxo,

Simonie

My New Fave Snack

Okay, I'm now addicted to Pretzel Crisps! They come in so many neat flavors. I was working so much this summer and commuting by train for 2 to 2 1/2 hours each way - every day!

I had to find something that I could fit in my purse and discreetly enjoy without getting a fine on the train! LOL

Pretzel Crisps to the rescue.

They're also super good dipped in peanut butter or Nutella (R).

There are so many varieties that you can't possibly get bored!

www.pretzelcrisps.com

I'm Back!

Sorry I've been away for a while but I got a job this summer and I'm getting a real taste of the 9 to 5. Which for me, is more like 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.! If I wasn't sleeping on the train during commute, I don't know what I'd do!

Anyway, I went to my family reunion this past weekend with my Granny. We drove from Houston to Cane River, Louisiana. How hot is hot?? I wanted to show them how we do it in Cali, so I spent a lot of time thinking about what color to paint my nails.

I settled on "Eternal Optimist" by Essie. It seems to go well with everything and is the perfect summer color. And since I won't have time to do my nails before I go back to work, it will make the perfect transition to "ready for business."

I promise not to stay away so long. Even if I have to blog between naps on the train.

Have a great week!

xoxo,

Simonie

It's Hot!

Summer's here. It's hot. I need to cool off. My mom drinks this Crystal Light Ruby Red Grapefruit and I'd never tried it until today. I wanted something that would be delicious without a lot of calories. I think I may have found it.

I never thought grapefruit could taste this good. Since I'm going to be commuting to work this summer, I'm looking for fun stuff to put in my lunch. Does anyone know if they make this particular flavor in the "to go" packs - you know the ones that you pour in your bottled water and shake?

If you find it - let me know.

But, for now, this is doing the trick.

Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Stay beautiful!

xoxo,

Simonie

Beauty Tip of the Week: Island Escape Cream Shadow Collection by Pur Minerals

I love getting gifts in the mail. Especially, makeup. Pur Minerals sent me their new Island Escape Cream Shadow Collection to try out.

Sea Foam, Passion Fruit, Ultramarine and Sand Bar are all neatly packaged in a mirrored compact which includes the shadow brush.

The colors look good enough to eat.

I'll be celebrating Memorial Day in the Islands. . .so to speak. The weather is beautiful here today and I get an extra day off from school tomorrow - yay!

I'll let you know how they wear. But, you don't have to wait for me. You can check them out for yourself at Ulta or online at Purminerals.

xoxo

Simonie

What's Up With Keri (TM) Lotion?

I must be getting old because I'm starting to get nostalgic. As you know, I love to try new makeup and beauty products. However, sometimes I like to go back to an old favorite.

I was thinking about my grandmother a lot this month. Maybe because of Mother's Day in May. I don't know. But, anyway, she's been gone for three years now and I still miss her. One thing I miss is the Keri Lotion that she seemed to keep in endless supply.

Whenever she would see me looking a little, shall we say "ashy," she would say, "Simone, here use this Keri lotion." She always kept a big pump bottle.

Well, this weekend, I went to like four stores and couldn't find it anywhere!! Now, I know that it's still being made because I cut a coupon out of the paper a few weeks ago for 2.00 off. But what good is the coupon if I can't find the product?

I ended up buying a pump bottle of Vaseline with Cocoa Butter instead but that is not the same as my Grandmother's Keri Lotion.

If you find it, can you let me know where you got it? I'm starting to get a little compulsive about this.

Have a great week!

Simonie

It's All in the Cosmos - Cosmic Raspberry Lip Color by Bobbi Brown

If you know me, you know that I usually don't wear brightly colored lipsticks. I'm more of a gloss gal. Although, I have been known to rock MAC's "Woo Red" from time to time.

But I went to the mall last weekend and as I was browsing the Bobbi Brown counter, I ran across this new hot shade that I just love. It's called Cosmic Raspberry 3 (and it's got SPF 12).

Guess who got the last tube left? That's right - your girl!

I think it's perfect for lifting the mood. Especially on Friday the 13th!

Do you have a favorite shade of lipstick?

These Rocks Rock - Pur Minerals Exotic Rocks

I've used Bare Escentuals since I was 14, but now I'm ready to try something new. I haven't used Pur Minerals before but I figured what better way to start than with their Exotic Rocks.

Exotic Rocks Trio includes:

Lava Rocks
Hot Rocks
Glow Rocks


Triple the depth, drama and dimension with the adventure-ready Exotic Rocks Trio, featuring two new additions to the Pür Rocks family. Give skin a rosy radiance with the popular Hot Rocks, turn up the heat with Lava Rocks and touch the sun with Glow Rocks. Use alone or combine the multidimensional shades for an endless array of gorgeous looks for eyes, lips and cheeks.*
Pür Minerals does NOT test its products on animals.

* www.purminerals.com

Designer Animal Crackers

OMG. Found the cutest cookies ever at Safeway. I'm a lover of all things Lilly Pulitzer and these special edition boxes of Barnum's Animal Crackers are no exception.

Really? I mean, really? Could these be any cuter? I want to buy hundreds of boxes and hoard them except I know that they would get stale.

Any idea of what I could make from empty animal cracker boxes.

Get them while you can because they're "Special Edition." I wonder if Princess Kates like animal crackers?

Flash! Balance Bar has Three New Flavors

I got the "sweetest" (pun-intended) care package today from my mom via Fedex. Actually, it came from the Balance Bar Company. They sent her three new flavors of Balance Bars for me and my dorm-mates to try.

The new flavors are: Lemon Meringue Crunch, Double Chocolate Brownie and S'mores.

I'll let you know which one wins the "poll," but I can tell you now, that I already think my favorite will be Smores (and I wasn't even a campfire girl)!

This is great because I need energy since I stayed up to watch the Royal Wedding!

Have a great weekend,

Simonie

Happy Easter, Etc.

If you're on the West Coast like me, I can still say "Happy Easter!" If you're on the East Coast, I'll say "Happy Monday!" :)

I only had one day off from school for Easter and that was Good Friday. I went to the Stations of the Cross service at my home church which was really nice. Even though it was nearly three hours long, I enjoyed every minute of it. I also went to Easter Service with my family today. It was nice being home even if it was just for a couple of days.

My mom didn't have any time off work so she didn't get to really make me an "Easter Basket." But, we went to Trader Joe's which happened to be open today and picked up some of my new favorite snacks for me to take back to school.

I'd like to share a couple of them with you. Number one - Trader Joe's Marcona Almonds with Rosemary. Can't describe them. You just have to try them for yourself. Number two - Hansen's Diet Pomegranate Soda.

Hop on over to Trader Joe's and put these in your basket.

I've got a big week ahead but I promise to check in before the week is up.

Simonie

Kiehl's Creme de Corps Body Lotion

Two good things came out of my resolution to give up fried foods for Lent:

1. I have a little less body fat (I hope) for bikini season, and

2. I saved enough money on fast foods to buy myself a bottle of Kiehl's Crème de Corps Light Weight Body Lotion with SPF 30. I love everything by Kiehl's. The vanilla-scented lotion is actually my favorite, but I'm living in a warmer climate now and my skin is getting beat up by the sun. With this lotion, I'm protected.

It's 27.00 for a small bottle (8.4 ounces) but it's so good for protecting skin from the sun's harmful rays.

I love it. You can find it online at Kiehl's (which is where I do most of my shopping now) but it's also available in high-end stores like Neiman Marcus.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend. I'm heading out to read in the sun (with my Kiehl's Creme de Corps Body Lotion lathered on)!

Bliss Vanilla + Bergamont Body Butter

This stuff smells so good that I want to eat it! The combination of Vanilla and Bergamont is just awesome.

But, more importantly, the Bliss Maximum Moisture Cream Body Butter really works. It's Paraben free. I'm using mine sparingly so it's my once a week after shower treat. Oh, and it is great as an "after-shave." The weather is getting warmer which means "show off those legs!" But, don't do it until you shave! LOL

Seriously, my mom introduced me to Bliss and I love all their products. Unfortunately, as a "starving student" I can't use them all the time which makes it even more special when I can!

They have a ton of great products. Check them out at

www.blissworld.com


Simonie

Let's Get This Party Started Now!

My birthday was on Tuesday, but as I've said before, it was finals week. So, I've been totally zapped, but the weekend is here and it's time to p-a-r-t-y! Not really. It's pouring rain, freezing cold and I've got the sniffles. But, hey, my nails don't have to know that.

I went to Walgreen's today in search of Incoco nails only to find that they no longer carry them. Anyway, I picked up this pack of Broadway Nails (Celebrity Style Designs) in silver.


I'll let you know how they work out. 5.99 for a pack of 28 wraps.

Oh, and my parents got me my favorite princess cake - in my favorite color - pink!

Happy Birthday to Me!!

Thayers Witch Hazel - Magic Potion

My latest obsession. Witch Hazel. One of my besties told me that Witch Hazel was great for keeping your skin soft and blemish free. So, I ordered a bottle from Drugstore.com. I think the most popular brand of Witch Hazel is Dickinson's but I ordered Thayers Cucumber Witch Hazel. Oh My God. You should see my skin. I would post pictures but I look sort of like - well, sort of like I just finished finals and I'm ready to collapse.

But, this beauty news was just too good to keep. I've been using this alcohol free toner for about two weeks. Once in the morning and once at night. When I got home, my mom said, 'Wow, your skin looks great.' As you know, I do try to use all natural products on my skin as much as possible, but the Witch Hazel has made a serious difference. It doesn't dry the skin like alcohol-based products can - did I mention that it's alcohol free? And it smells so fresh - like fresh - cucumbers!

Bargain prized at 7.99 for a 12 ounce bottle.

"Flossing" Hair With Fekkai BRILLIANT GLOSSING

I love my mom. Especially when she puts beauty treats in my care packages from home. This week, along with these super yummy chocolate Bahlsen cookies, she sent me sample pack of Fekkai Brilliant Glossing. I just finished using the shampoo and conditioner. My hair feels so good and the smell is amazing. I have no idea what's in this formula but the package says "With Encapsulated Shine-Release Complex."

At $38.00 for sixteen ounces of shampoo, it's a little out of my "price range," but at least I can say I've experienced it. Also, sometimes Ross and other discount stores sell Fekkai products. Since this is new, it will probably be a while before it lands there, but you never know, so be on the lookout!

Hope you're having a great Sunday!

Simonie

Who Watched The Oscars?

Unfortunately, I was doing a little "cramming," and didn't see the entire show. But I did like what I saw. I'm going to go back and look at it to see if I can pick up any makeup tips. One thing is for sure, Oprah (Ms. Winfrey), really rocked that smokey eye effect! I would give her a "MakeUpCrazyGirlie" Oscar for that. :)

I've done a tutorial on my YouTube channel before on the "smokey eye." But, later this week, I will be posting a quick "how to" on getting the Smokey Eye effect.

(Yay, Natalie Portman!)

I'm off to class!

Simonie

Got Makeup Wipes?

I've said it before and I'll say it again. College life is stressful. Living in a small space (luckily we have a sink) but sharing a bathroom with a ton of other people, schlepping down the hall with a literal bucket of soap and towels and deodorant and my whole morning regimen is really getting old. But, as you know, this is only my first year so I've got a ways to go!

Plus that's just the "not so fun" part - I must admit, everything else is pretty cool.

Anyway, right now I'm struggling with trying to find a good makeup remover towelette. They are just so much more convenient for dorm life. I had been using the Target brand with great success but recently ran out. My mom mailed me some "Yes to Cucumbers" wipes that worked well (meaning it took the makeup off completely) but they burned my skin. As you know, I struggle with breakouts from time time and so depending on the "time" some wipes work on certain days and not on others.

Target wipes are only sold in the stores and I don't have a car at school so I can't order online. Somebody told me that the Pond's wipes work well (and for all I know they might be the same as the Target wipes). I've tried Almay, Neutrogena, you name it.

Any suggestions?

p.s. Drugstore.com is da bomb!!

My New Favorite Tea (This Week)

This has been a really crazy week and it's only Tuesday! Thank God for care packages from home. Along with a box of Advil and chocolate popcorn, my mom sent me this new tea from Lipton. At least, I think it's new because I haven't had it before. It's called White Mangosteen and Peach. The aroma is better than a Yankee Candle and the flavor is awesome.

Just what I needed for my stress headache and before I go to my next class.

Life is short - drink more tea!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Nothing says "I love you" like great lashes! So, instead of waiting for someone else to make me smile, I bought myself a treat. I'd been wanting to try the Maybelline One By One Volum’ Express Mascara since it launched and what better time than today!

I love most Maybelline mascara and am looking forward to seeing what all these tiny 'one by one' brushes really do! Can't wait to try it tonight when I go out. Stay tuned for a full review!

Make someone happy today! Remember, Valentine's Day only comes once a year.

Simonie

Just Throw It In the Bag!

One thing that I am NOT enjoying about college life is doing laundry. I took our washer and dryer for granted at home. I just didn't appreciate it being there. I guess I didn't think about people who don't have a washer and dryer in their home or college students who have to share four washers (four, I tell you) for a whole dorm full of people. That's a lot of dirty clothes. And I seem to have this knack for always making it down to the basement just as someone grabs the last washer. I want to SCREAM! I don't - cuz then people would think I'm weird and that doesn't do much for one's social life.

Anyway, thanks to this really cool laundry bag , at least I solicit friendly conversation. Even a poor, struggling college student can look rich. :)

("Money Bag" Designed by Jan Habraken for Kikkerland)

Peace and Bubbles,

Simonie

I Got A New Flat Iron!!

I'm so excited. I just received a new Infrashine "original Red Line" flat iron. I've been using a Metropolis for the last few months and then the plate fell out. What's up with that??? I know I've had bad hair days, but really, I've never broken a flat iron!

Right now, I'm rocking the "naturally curly" thing but stay tuned for the Infrashine Original Red Line Flat Iron review coming soon. If it's anything close to as magical as my Infrashine Blow Dryer - and I'm sure it is - I will love it.

You can check out the Infrashine line on their website:

www.infrashine.com

Have a great hair day!

Simonie

When You Can't Afford a Trip to the Spa - SpaRitual Nail Polish

I've been feeling so stressed lately. And they say that color has a lot to do with your mood. So, while browsing my favorite drug store last night, I ran across this SpaRitual nail enamel. I'm pretty much an "OPI Gal," but this polish is just a couple bucks more and I often have a tough time getting my OPI open after it's been sitting a while. SpaRitual's patented Plum (TM) cap is supposed to alleviate that problem.

Anyway, the colors are super fun. If anyone has tried it, let me know. I'd love to hear your comments.

Simonie!

Smokey-I by Almay (So Easy My Mom Can Do It!)

As you know, I love the "Smokey Eye" look. But it can be expensive to get and takes a little work. My mom always wants the "smokey eye" effect but she is sort of. . .let's say, "makeup challenged."

Anyway, Almay has a new product from their "Intense i-color" line called "Smokey-I." I got this one for brown eyes at Walgreen's for 7.99. You can probably even find it cheaper on sale or at some other places.

It goes on better if you use your own applicator instead of the ones that come with the kit. However, if you're a "makeup on the go gal," then the Almay applicators (2 come in each set) should work just fine.

It's not the greatest "smokey eye" look on the planet, but the effect is definitely there. The thing I like about Almay is that it's hypoallergic and the price is perfect for a college student.

There's "Smokey-I" for blue eyes and green eyes too.

Simonie

Long Time, No Blog

I'm back!!!!!!! Oh, my God. Where do I begin? Well, let's just say college was much more work than I've ever had in my life! News flash. I finished my first quarter in mid-December and then had my Christmas Break. Except that I had to get FOUR wisdom teeth pulled over break. Yeah. Four. So, it wasn't much of a break at all. I'm back at school. Second quarter is well underway and I'm peddling as fast as I can!

But, I had to take time to tell you about my latest passion. I'm taking a film class this quarter and so I needed a Netflix subscription to rent the hard to find movies. Netflix is the best thing since Tivo! They have so many movies. And while I have very little time to watch movies (other than those assigned by my class) it's a great way to unwind on the weekend. AND, they have all my favorite TV shows on DVD (like "Gossip Girls") so you never have to wonder what happened 2 seasons ago. It's all on record! Way cool.

I'm off to class now, but I promise to blog more. Maybe I'll add movie reviews to my blog. Wouldn't that be a fun idea?

Okay, bye for now.