Halifax Beauty Maven

Thoughts of Flowers

2009-10-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

When I think of flowers I am taken back in my memory to my grandmother’s garden and all of the beauty that was there. She grew many different types of flowers from daffodils to tulips to roses to a variety of lilies. I particularly was partial to the peonies and the dahlias because I always liked the look of big faced flowers the best.

It is hard not to fall in love with a dahlia. These flowers come in a variety of shapes and sizes and they come in an array of colors. Think pink, white, orange, red and yellow. My love affair with flowers began as a young girl and has continued throughout my lifetime.

Flowers are a favorite of mine to give to others for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries and holidays. In fact flowers are a perfect way to say thank you or I love you any time of the year! If you are looking for just the right gift basket, flower arrangement or mixed bouquet then look no further than 1800 flowers for what you need to make someone smile.

Westford Asset Management in Boca Raton

2009-09-09T18:23:00.000-07:00

Westford Asset Management is located in Boca Raton, Florida. For those unfamiliar with Boca Raton it is a city in Palm Beach County, Florida and boosts a population of approximately 85,377. If you wish to do business with Westford Asset Management then the more you know about Boca Raton the better. In terms of both population and land mass, it is the largest city situated between West Palm Beach and Pompano Beach in Broward County.

In miles, the entire city of Boca Raton is 29.6 square miles and the beach frontage is five miles. Early maps of the time listed Boca Raton as “Boca Ratones.” The translation of Boca Raton is “Mouse Mouth” which means rat in Spanish. Some theorize that it was once a pirate’s cove while others believe that it was an inlet. No matter what Boca Raton means to you or started out as, today it is where Westford Asset Management makes its home.

Sak Narwal and a Love of Harmonica Music

2009-09-09T18:15:00.000-07:00

Unlike some people, Sak Narwal did not develop an interest in the music of the harmonica as a young person. His interest developed later in his life and was sparked as a result of attending a harmonica competition in Trossingen, Germany. Every fall season the same competition was held in Trossingen which is home to the Hohner harmonica company.

While observing the competition, Sak Narwal became enthralled with the number of competitors and the range of talent each one displayed. From that point on his interest and love of the music of the harmonica and the history of the harmonica grew.

Sak Narwal

wanted to learn everything there was to know about the harmonica. He began to collect music

from some of the best known harmonica players around such as Sonny Terry, Paul Butterfield, Bob Dylan, John Mayall and Norton Buffalo. He eventually went out and found himself a harmonica teacher so he too could learn to play.

RENEW International and Spiritual Renewal

2009-09-09T18:11:00.000-07:00

RENEW International is a Roman Catholic ministry that has been administering to those in need for the past 28 years. The organization, which is incorporated under the auspices of the Archdiocese of Newark, encourages and supports spiritual renewal by sharing messages of faith to both communities and the individuals within the communities.

Parish life in over 150 dioceses throughout the United States has been helped along thanks to the work of RENEW International. Its services have reached out to 25 million individuals. The reach of RENEW International goes even further than the country’s expansive borders. Its ministry has reached thousands of people in other countries as well. In fact it has helped individuals in 23 countries and encompassed six continents. It has reached out to those in need in over 44 different languages.

Choosing Eyeglass Frames for Your Face Shape and Coloring

2009-09-07T14:12:00.000-07:00

When it comes to choosing eyeglasses, one of the most important aspects is to look for frames that complement your face and your unique coloring. You don’t want to have to try on a dozen pairs or more before you find the pair that is perfect for you. As you search for a style of eyeglasses that complements your face, consider these tips.

Eyewear should bring out your very best feature in the most flattering manner possible. In other words, if you have blue eyes, frames that are blue or that have a blue tint to them would look fantastic on you. Always choose a shape of frame that contrasts with your face shape. In other words, a person with a round face should not choose round frames. As well, the size of the frame should fit the size of your face and should be to scale. Do not choose eyeglasses that overwhelm your face but do not go too small either.

If you want variety in the glasses you choose then there is no better place to browse and shop at then www.eyeglasses.com. Whether you are looking for women’s eyeglasses, men’s eyeglasses, designer glasses or the retro look, you will find it here.

Mohammed Babangida and Jazz Music

2009-04-30T19:34:00.001-07:00

If jazz is your music of choice then you are in good company. Mohammed Babangida, a successful entrepreneur from Nigeria is a big fan of the musical influences that have their roots in African culture.

Mohammed Babangida has loved jazz music for as long as he can remember. Jazz is more than just music; it is also a form of art that is constantly evolving. Ragtime music for all intents and purposes set the groundwork for the styles of jazz that came afterwards.

Classic jazz got its start in the early 1900s in New Orleans while the Hot Five band music that headlined Louis Armstrong in 1925 saw the emergence of hot jazz. There was more to come in terms of jazz including Chicago style and the swing in the 1930s that followed suit. Mohammed Babangida knows all about good jazz. How about you?

Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society and Healing

2009-04-30T19:18:00.000-07:00

The Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society (DTMMS) is an organization that cares about humanity and spirituality. The practices of the Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society have come from the ancient ways that characterize the medicine men and women known as the Twisted Hairs who live on Turtle Island in the Americas.

The Deer Metis Medicine Society has evolved to become a network that is across the globe. This network is made up of teachers, affiliated organizations, lodges and study groups and offers lectures, workshops, classes and a variety of learning materials to promote self-development, healing and knowledge.

The mission of the network is to fight disease, ignorance, dogma and bigotry and to support future generations in allowing more beauty, freedom and joy into their lives.

United American Insurance Company Takes Care of You

2009-04-30T19:01:00.000-07:00

If it is life insurance you need then United American Insurance Company can take care of your needs. Life insurance is best purchased when you are young and in good health. Don’t delay whatever you do! The earlier you apply the more likely you will be to get the lowest rates possible.

United American Insurance Company offers both whole life insurance as well as term life insurance. Term life insurance tends to be more budget friendly but it never hurts to find out what whole life insurance has to offer you as well. There is no time like the present to look into it.

Life insurance is not the only type of insurance that United American Insurance Company offers. Visit the company’s website to check out their other insurance products including health insurance and critical illness insurance.

Survey Resource Center- A Leader in Financial and Insurance Product Needs

2009-04-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

Survey Resource Center (SRC) is in the business of providing sales leads that are innovative and fresh to both the insurance industry as well as the financial sector. The company first got its start in 1998 working with insurance providers and then expanded to provide other services.

Presently, Survey Resource Center markets its leads to sales people who specialize in these areas- annuities, financial planning, reverse mortgage, long-term care, and debt refinance, among others. The company has become successful in what it does because of the large network of direct mail marketers they work with who send out surveys to customers nationwide who are interested in insurance or financial products.

Every three months the database of consumers is updated and is recategorized according to geographical location and product needs. This helps to keep SRC at the top of its game.

K-Designers- A Leader in Home Remodeling

2009-04-30T17:02:00.000-07:00

K-Designers have over 30 years of experience in the home remodeling business. The company was started in 1978 by Larry and Lee Judson. They started with only four employees in Casper, Wyoming. In 1980, K-Designers expanded to Denver, Colorado and Billings, Montana.

In 1986 the home remodeling company brought its products and services to the West Coast. At the end of 1990, the company had made more than $18 million in sales and was growing stronger all of the time.

K-Designers celebrated its 27th anniversary in 2005. That year the company boasted annual sales of more than $63 million. The company is a leader in the home remodeling business. It has been rated the number one remodeling company in the western United States and the number one siding contractor in the nation.

Choosing Eyeglasses for Your Face Shape

2009-04-30T16:01:00.000-07:00

If you are presently looking for new glasses, whether they are sunglasses or eyeglasses then you need to check out the wide variety of options that awaits you at www.eyeglasses.com. The options range from the most popular eyeglasses they sell to vintage eyeglasses and rimless eyeglasses. Glasses can reflect your unique personality and help highlight your best features!

When you are shopping for the right pair of glasses you first must consider the size of your face. Always match your glasses to the size of your face. In other words, small frames are more appropriate for smaller faces and vice versa if you have a larger face.

When it comes to the shape of sunglasses, you need to do the opposite. In other words, find the contrast that works best. For a round face shape look for frames that are squarer in size. For an angular face, think round curves to soften the look.

Make Your Mom Smile with Mother's Day Flowers

2009-04-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

Flowers are always a wonderful gift for every woman in your life, no matter what the occasion. But when it comes to mom’s special day in May, Mother’s day flowers are one of the best choices you could make! For ease of convenience visit 1800flowers to see the tremendous selection they have to offer. There is every type of Mother’s day flowers you could imagine. Once you know what your mother’s favorite flowers are and the color of choice, then you are all set to place your order.

Mother’s day flowers are an excellent option for Mother’s day as they are beautiful, and will brighten up any room. You can put a smile on your mother’s face and enliven the ambiance of her kitchen or living room all at the same time. 1800flowers will make sure that the flower bouquet you choose will reach your mother on time and will be pleasing to her. Another excellent aspect about Mother’s day flowers is that it is a versatile gift that goes well with something else such as food or a blouse your mother has had her eye on.

Nutrition and Your Nails

2009-02-07T17:30:00.000-08:00

Ladies, start treating your nails well and they will thank you by being healthy and beautiful!

Nutrition is important as what you do (or don’t) eat reflects in the health of your nails. Here are some problems to be aware of.

*Nails that are dry and brittle are caused by a lack of vitamin A as well as calcium.

*Hangnails are caused by a lack of protein, folic acid and vitamin C.

*White bands across the nails are brought on by protein deficiency.

*Splitting nails are caused by a lack of sufficient hydrochloric acid.

*Inadequate intake of vitamin B12 can lead to excessive dryness, very rounded and curved ends and darkening of nails.

*A lack of zinc can cause development of white spots on fingernails.

*Cuts and cracks in the nails may indicate a need for more liquids.

*If the skin around the cuticles reddens this could be a sign of poor metabolism of essential fatty acids.

And now for the good news- there are ways to remedy these dietary problems. Below are some guidelines to follow in order to improve the health of your nails.

*Eat a diet composed of fifty percent raw vegetables and fruits in order to supply necessary vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Eat foods rich in sulfur and silicon, such as broccoli, fish and onions. Include foods rich in biotin such as soy, brewer’s yeast and whole grains.

*Drink plenty of water and other liquids.

*Choose to supplement your diet with royal jelly, spirulina or kelp, which are rich in silica, zinc and B vitamins and help to strengthen nails.

*Drink fresh carrot juice daily (if you can stomach it) as it is high in calcium and phosphorus and is excellent for nail health.

Make an effort to eat better and your whole body will be healthier. Not to mention the fact that you will feel better, you’ll have more energy and you will be your most beautiful (and so will your nails)!

Roses for Your Sweetheart

2009-01-23T08:30:00.000-08:00

There is no better time than Valentine’s Day to show the woman you love how much she is loved. Why not make her smile with a dozen red roses from 1800flowers? Red is the most popular color for roses and why shouldn’t it be? Red is very beautiful. Red roses stand for love but they also symbolize beauty, romance, courage and respect. Don’t just think a dozen roses, think long stem roses.

Pink is another color that makes an excellent choice for Valentine’s Day for the one you love. Pink roses speak of grace, style and elegance. But they are also a fun choice for the lady in your life. Browse the selection at 1800flowers and you will see that the choices are many. Choose a deeper shade of pink for appreciation and understanding. Or go with a lighter more muted shade of pink to convey a message of happiness, joy, kindness and admiration.

Beauty Tips to Take You Back Years

2009-01-13T09:39:00.001-08:00

We continue with secrets three and four of how to erase years off your skin ...

Secret # 3
Keep the sun at bay.
You may love the warmth of the sun on your skin but oh how it can wreck havoc! Avoid sun exposure whenever possible and when you must be out in the sun, wear the proper SPF (number 30 is adequate for most people) and also wear a hat that shields the sun from your face. Sunglasses with SPF coating to protect your eyes are also an excellent idea for optimum sun protection.

Premature aging of the skin is a terrible consequence of too much sun exposure. Be aware that it takes many years for skin damage to show itself on the face. Too much exposure to harmful UVA and UVB rays causes the collagen and elastin in the skin to crack and shrink. This in turn causes the layer of skin to become smaller thereby making the epidermis layer of the skin droopy, wrinkly and saggy. Constant exposure on a long-term basis can cause premature aging of the skin, as well as freckles, wrinkles, age spots, dilated blood vessels, skin cancer and skin that looks leathery and dry and no longer has that soft, supple texture to it.

Secret # 4
Shorter and lighter for hair is best!
As a woman ages, hair that is cut shorter and is lighter in color is the most appropriate choice. To maintain a younger look, it is best to get a haircut that falls somewhere between the chin and the shoulders. Having bangs that are swept to the side gives a more youthful appearance to any woman and the shorter length will also give her the younger look she desires. In the same way, lighter hair gives all women a more sunny appearance and can help to take years off of the face. You do not have to go platinum blonde but consider lightening up a little bit. You are better off going to a beauty salon to have this done as opposed to doing it at home (especially the first time you attempt to lighten your hair).

Beauty Tips to Take You Back Years

2009-01-11T17:44:00.000-08:00

Maybe you can never be as young as you once were, but there are ways to retain a youthful appearance and to make it seem as though you are younger than your driver's license states! We start off with two timeless beauty tips (or secrets maybe is a better word! LOL)

Secret # 1
Get the necessary amount of sleep every night.
One of the quickest ways to age yourself girlifriend is to consistently lose sleep. When a person does not get enough sleep on a regular basis this causes the skin to look dull and sallow, the eyes to look puffy and red and the face to sag even more. Do not short change yourself on your sleep. An occasional night lacking in proper shut eye is one thing but don't make it a habit of yours!

It is important to be aware that not only will losing sleep make you look older quicker, it will also make you more susceptible to getting sick. The immune system only works at half its normal capacity when a person loses sleep on a consistent basis. On the days you have to function on less than adequate sleep, lie back on your bed for at least 10 minutes with cucumber slices applied to each eye and then take a white eyeliner and apply it to the inner corners of the eyes in order to make the whites of your eyes look even whiter. To prevent under eye circles, place a telephone book between your mattress and your base, directly under the area where your pillow rests in order to elevate your head while you sleep.

Secret # 2
Hydration is key for the health of your skin.
Forget all the media hype about expensive creams, toners, or exfoliates for your skin and save your money. The truth is that the best thing you can do for a clear, healthy, radiant complexion is to drink plenty of water. And that is just the beginning of water’s many benefits for health. Once hailed as “Mother Nature’s healthy cocktail”, it is believed that water when it is pure and free of contaminants is truly a “wonder drug.” Make sure to drink at least six to eight glasses of water a day. Not only will your your skin thank you but so will your bowels (and your entire digestive tract!). If you are not fond of the taste of water then squeeze some lemon into the glass in order to give it a little more zest. Add ice cubes if you like to make it more appealing to the eye!

Shasta Pools

2008-12-22T07:26:00.000-08:00

You have just bought a new home and now it is time to think about the backyard. You have always wanted to put in a pool and now you have the property and the money to do it. But where do you look in Arizona for the pool that is right for you? The answer is Shasta Pools found on the web at www.shastapools.com. Shasta Pools are all about innovation and design.

Not only will Shasta Pools sell you a pool, they will also remodel your pool if need be and be there to help you when it comes time for maintenance to be done. Shasta Pools & Spas have been in business since 1968. To date, they have built over 75,000 swimming pools throughout Arizona.

The Shasta Company guarantees that you get the best pool for the money you pay. Shasta Pools is Arizona’s # 1 pool building company. The Business Journal has deemed the company to be “one of the best places to work in Arizona.”

Mohammed Babangida

2008-12-22T07:25:00.000-08:00

Mohammed Babangida is a businessman from Niger State, Nigeria who serves as a special advisor to the Santa Isabel Petroleum Company. Mohammed Babangida coordinates and negotiates with the government agencies in the African Nation of Equatorial Guinea which is where the company works out of.

Mohammed Babangida has been employed in a variety of different fields over the years including banking, real estate, security services, and oil and gas. He is an accomplished polo player and enjoys a variety of types of music including traditional African music, rhythm and blues, and jazz.

At the present time, Mohammed Babangida sits on the board of Unity Bank, PLC. He once served as both the chairman of the board as well as the head of the credit committee for the Intercity Bank, PLC.

Consolidated Resorts

2008-12-21T16:57:00.000-08:00

If the thought of taking a vacation has you thinking of beautiful beaches but high prices then Consolidated Resorts can help you to choose a vacation package that will not break the bank. On the other hand, maybe a trip to Las Vegas to see all of the bright lights on the strip puts a smile on your face. Consolidated Resorts can make this dream vacation happen for you and your family.

Visit the website for Consolidated Resorts found at www.consolidated-resorts.com to learn about the packages that are available for Kauai and many other luxurious areas of Hawaii. Consolidated Resorts has been in business for 28 years and seeks to bring all of the essential elements of vacation ownership together to please its clients.

Amos Tamam

2008-12-21T09:02:00.000-08:00

When you get into a cab and are in a hurry the last thing on your mind is the method of payment you will use once you arrive at your destination, right? It wasn’t too long ago that paying for a cab ride with a credit card was not possible. Amos Tamam, an electrical engineer from Israel changed all that. Today credit cards, convenience, and cab rides go hand in hand.

Now the CEO of Verifone Transportation Systems, Inc., Amos Tamam developed a system whereby those who take cabs in New York City and Philadelphia can pay using their credit cards. Not only does this provide ease of payment for customers but it also helps to keep cab drivers safer because they are no longer required to carry large amounts of cash. This means that their chances of being robbed are lessened. Wireless payment for taxis can be attributed to the vision and ingenuity of Amos Tamam. This service will soon be available to all cab companies across the country.

Condo Management Help is Near!

2008-12-20T17:06:00.000-08:00

If you need to know as much as you can about condo and owner association management, then Tim Arel is the person you need to look to online. This is true whether you need the information for your own benefit or are helping someone else. Tim Arel has been a property management specialist for a number of years and is well versed in all areas of this complicated field.

It takes a certain type of person to work in condo management. This is the case in regards to personality, temperament, education and skills. With a background in economics, communications and law, Tim Arel is committed to doing everything he can to provide the service that his clients have come to expect. If you reside in a condominium and are looking for a manager then keep the name Tim Arel in mind.

Fannie May Chocolates

2008-12-17T17:41:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a time for gift giving and nothing says I love you (or I like you!) more than chocolates! Chocolate is tasty, fun and more and more studies are proving that it is good for the heart. Chocolate is made from plants which mean that it shares many of the same health benefits as a selection of dark vegetables. Now your favorite treat is also good for you!

Chocolate contains chemicals called flavonoids which play a role in lowering blood pressure as well as increasing blood flow from the heart to the brain. Flavonoids also act as antioxidants which the body needs to fight disease and they help to balance hormone levels in the body. If that wasn’t enough, eating chocolates can help lower the level of bad cholesterol in the body by up to 10 percent (Source: http://longevity.about.com/od/lifelongnutrition/p/chocolate.htm).

Fannie May makes some of the finest chocolates around that are perfect for giving to that special someone on your list. Some of the bestsellers at the site include the Assorted Creams, the Vanilla Buttercreams and the Pixies. For that picky person in your life, the “Create an Assortment” is sure to please this holiday season.

If you check the Christmas Chocolate section you will find plenty of mouth watering delights including the 12 Days of Christmas, the Chicago Holiday Assortment Tin, the Christmas Tree Assortment and Chocolate Covered Strawberries. Holiday lip smacking yummy!

United American Insurance Company

2008-12-13T17:55:00.000-08:00

The United American Insurance Company got its start in the year 1947 as a provider of life insurance, health insurance and accident coverage to the state of Texas. The United American Insurance Company has grown substantially over the years and now takes care of the insurance needs for individuals in 49 states, as well as the District of Columbia and Canada. The Home Office of United American Insurance Company employs in excess of 700 people who are there to help out both customers and healthcare providers alike with any questions or concerns they may have.

Ever since Medicare came along in 1966, UAIC carved out a niche for senior health plans and have since made them their specialty. The United American Insurance Company became one of the leading providers of individual Medicare Supplements and they continue to hold that distinction today. Other insurance products UAIC offers include cancer/critical illness insurance, Medicare Part D plans and Group Retiree plans.

Nutrition and Your Nails

2008-12-13T17:52:00.000-08:00

Nutrition is important as what you do (or don’t) eat reflects in the health of your nails. Here are some problems to be aware of.

*Nails that are dry and brittle are caused by a lack of vitamin A as well as calcium.

*Hangnails are caused by a lack of protein, folic acid and vitamin C.

*White bands across the nails are brought on by protein deficiency.

*Splitting nails are caused by a lack of sufficient hydrochloric acid.

*Inadequate intake of vitamin B12 can lead to excessive dryness, very rounded and curved ends and darkening of nails.

*A lack of zinc can cause development of white spots on fingernails.

*Cuts and cracks in the nails may indicate a need for more liquids.

*If the skin around the cuticles reddens this could be a sign of poor metabolism of essential fatty acids.

And now for the good news- there are ways to remedy these dietary problems. Below are some guidelines to follow in order to improve the health of your nails.

*Eat a diet composed of fifty percent raw vegetables and fruits in order to supply necessary vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Eat foods rich in sulfur and silicon, such as broccoli, fish and onions. Include foods rich in biotin such as soy, brewer’s yeast and whole grains.

*Drink plenty of water and other liquids.

*Choose to supplement your diet with royal jelly, spirulina or kelp, which are rich in silica, zinc and B vitamins and help to strengthen nails.

*Drink fresh carrot juice daily (if you can stomach it) as it is high in calcium and phosphorus and is excellent for nail health.

Make an effort to eat better and your whole body will be healthier. Not to mention the fact that you will feel better, you’ll have more energy and you will be your most beautiful (and so will your nails)!

Is Your Hair Healthy or Not?- Do the Strand Test to Find Out!

2008-10-17T19:12:00.000-07:00

Is your hair healthy or unhealthy? How can you tell? If you’re not sure then don’t worry I’ll tell you how you can figure it out. It’s simple- all you need to try is the strand test. It only takes a few seconds to do.

Here’s how it works ladies. Pluck a strand of hair and drop it in water. Give the hair a light tap with your finger and see if it swims or sinks.

So what’s the verdict?

If your hair swims, congratulations, it has been given a clean bill of health. There is no sign of sun damage and no color processing. Good for you! Your hair is as healthy looking as you are. Keep it up!

If on the other hand your hair sinks, uh oh this is bad news, your hair is damaged. It has become so porous that it easily saturates with water. But don’t despair, this can be improved upon. There are some simple surefire ways to resuscitate overdone tresses.

First of all start by getting a good haircut to rid yourself of excessively dry and/or split ends. Split ends cannot be repaired; they can only be cut off. Nothing else works. Great hair starts with a great cut ladies!

Then try a moisture infusing shampoo like Infusium 23 or Moisture Infusing Shampoo and Moisture Infusing Conditioner from Therma Silk (made by Helene Curtis). Or perhaps consider trying Pantene, Suave or Dove. All of these brands are good. Therma Silk is especially designed to lock in moisture when you blow-dry your hair. Think of it as not blowing your hair dry but instead as blowing beautiful, soft healthy looking hair.

The old adage, ‘You are what you eat’ is so true. The condition of your hair depends on the quality of nutrients you take in. For healthy looking hair, make sure you’re eating plenty of protein (meat, fish, poultry and cheese), Vitamin A (eggs, milk, carrots, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables), Vitamin B Complex (wholegrain cereals, soy beans), and Vitamin C (citrus fruits and avocados). Keep in mind that hair is three times weaker when it’s wet so treat it with lots of TLC.

Aloe Vera and Your Skin

2008-10-10T18:01:00.000-07:00

Aloe Vera is an important beauty care product that is beneficial for your tired skin as well as your overworked immune system. Aloe Vera is the defense your skin needs in order to be as healthy as it can be. As part of a skin care regime, Aloe Vera is exceptional in its usage. It was used by Egyptian queens such as Cleopatra to provide a radiant glow to the face and the body. So why not modern day divas and goddesses?! Doesn’t your skin deserve the best? Sure it does!

Our skin changes over time and it needs more of a helping hand as we age in terms of building new cells and rejuvenating itself. The skin goes through a cycle of renewal every 21 to 28 days and the daily application of Aloe Vera can provide the extra support the skin needs to continue to fight the signs of aging, as well as to flush out the toxins in the system.

Aloe Vera can be found at most health food stores, as well as in the health section of most grocery stores and pharmacies. Aloe Vera gel is also safe to ingest but look for it in the purest form possible.

Shield Your Skin From Bacteria

2008-10-10T17:59:00.000-07:00

The skin has a very important job. It acts as a natural shield to keep bacteria and foreign bodies from invading the body and polluting it with infections or diseases. The skin works to prevent harmful toxins from the environment from getting inside, and to keep out the detrimental effects of the sun’s rays. The skin works closely with the immune system to keep the good in the body and block the bad.

As a person ages, the skin has a more difficult time doing its job properly. This is especially the case if the immune system is not up to par. Any number of things can wear down the skin and the immune system. The skin begins to show signs of wearing down because of the burden it must carry. It can become dry, flaky, scaly, itchy, red, blotchy and swollen. This can open the door to skin problems.

Unfortunately the immune system cannot always keep up with the wear and tear on the skin and it needs a boost too. If the immune system is not working as well as it ought to be, this can usher in colds, ear infections, sore throats and the flu.
So what do you do to keep your skin in top form? The answer is…

Aloe Vera!

Read on to find out why.

Get Your Toiletries Ready to Roll!

2008-01-01T20:49:00.000-08:00

If a trip is in the cards for the New Year then good for you! Whether it is a weekend home away from home or a seven to ten day dream vacation somewhere warm and sunny you will need to buy a bag fro your toiletries that is top notch and will keep everything net, tidy and in order. You do not want any spills or mishaps to spoil your trip, now do you?

Choose the right kind of bag

Ask any beauty savvy lady and she will tell you that everything starts with the right kind of toiletry bag. Do you have such a bag or not? If you answered no to this question then you need to shop as shrewdly and as carefully as possible for a toiletry bag that is most appropriate for your needs. On your shopping expedition for just such a bag, always examine every case very closely. Search for a bag that is open and has its share of clear pouches that make it possible to easily identify what each item is and where it is. The easier items are to find, the better.

Purchase a bag that can easily be wiped off, both on the inside and the outside, if something were to be spilled on it. A water-resistant bag is best and you would do well to avoid toiletry bags that have fabric linings. They may look nice but overall performance is so much more important. If something gets spilled on a bag with a fabric lining then it will more than likely be permanently stained and the scent will remain. This is the case no matter how many times you clean it or wipe it off. Bear that in mind!

The Power of Fragrance

2007-11-18T08:11:00.000-08:00

Are you aware that the power of smell is a great deal stronger than most people realize? It is. This explains why your choice of a scent is just as important as the shoes you wear or the jewellery you put on to adorn an outfit or the purse you choose to carry. Fragrance is one of the most important accessories that you put on!

Fragrance speaks after all. Don’t you want it to say the correct things about you? The scent you wear tells other people about your lifestyle, your personality and the way your brain works. Fragrance also has the ability to make an impression on other people around you. A fragrance can be many things to many people and you want it to linger in a room ever so slightly after you leave the room so the remembrance of you stays behind.

Fragrance is a form of art and it is also an emotion and a state of mind. What else is fragrance? That’s an easy one- fragrance is romance, intimacy, fun, excitement, mystery, seduction, energy, vibrancy, empowerment, confidence and individuality.

Perfume Options for Autumn

2007-10-22T13:43:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a new perfume for the autumn season then here are some suggestions. Keep in mind that the prices given are in Canadian funds.

Euphoria Blossom, Eau de Toilette (50 ml) $68.00
Boss Femme, Eau de Parfum (50 ml) $72.00
Puma Woman, Eau de Toilette (75 ml) $56.00
Hot Couture by Givenchy, Eau de Toilette (50 ml) $74.00
Vera Wang Princess, Eau de Toilette (50 ml) $72.00

Smelling sweet never felt so good! :)

More Petroleum Jelly Beauty Tips

2007-10-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

If you are going out for a night on the town and want your lips to look as sexy and luscious as possible then try this trick- smooth on a creamy lipstick and then dab a tiny spec of petroleum jelly in the middle of your bottom lip. You can either leave it "as is" and it will look like a shiny gloss and will draw attention to your lips, or you can blend it into your lips to give your lips an all over glossy sheer finish.

If you like the look of masacara on your lashes but want to go for a lighter effect, then apply petroleum jelly to your lashes gently and then use an eyelash comb to separate them. Make sure you wipe up any residual petroleum jelly that falls under your eyes.

On days when your eyebrows will not behave, smooth a little bit of petroleum jelly over your brows to tame them so they do not appear unruly. This will make them look straight, smooth and very stylish!

Before you color your hair or get a perm apply petroleum jelly near your hairline. This will help prevent stains from developing on your forehead. If you are very sensitive to chemicals you might also want to place cotton balls over top of the petroleum jelly to protect your skin even further.

The Wonders of Petroleum Jelly

2007-10-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

Petroleum jelly is a beauty essential that no lady who cares about her looks should be without. Whether you buy Vaseline or another brand, use petroleum jelly as a moisturizer for your hands when you are out of hand cream.

Smooth it into your cuticles as well to give them a conditioning treatment that they could use anytime. One suggestion is to remove your old nail polish and then use the petroleum jelly on your cuticles. Wait a day or so before you have another manicure and your cuticles will thank you for the royal treatment!

More tips on petroleum jelly soon.

More of the Perfume Categories ...

2007-10-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

The third category of perfume is green/natural. This is a very fresh and down-to-earth scent. The green/natural fragrance is for the woman who likes to "keep it real" whenever possible and likes to be as natural as she can be. Examples of this type of fragrance include Calvin Klein Escape for Women, Calvin Klein Truth for Women, Chanel No. 5, Elizabeth Taylor White Diamonds, Romance by Ralph Lauren and True Star by Tommy Hilfiger.

Musk/oils are scents that leave little (if anything) to the imagination. This is the "S" scent in that it is sexy, strong and suggestive and certainly not for the faint at heart! This is a sexy scent that speaks volumes without uttering a syllable. Musk gives off the most powerful scent of all of the perfume oils and most commonly comes from the male musk deer from the Himalayas and also the musk ox and muskrat. Examples include Caleche by Hermes, Lagerfeld Sun * Moon & Stars, L'Aminant by Coty, Dolce & Gabbana for Women and Shalimar by Guerlain. When you are in the mood to seduce, think musk!

Woody or chypre (pronounced Shee-pra) derives its name from the Mediterranean Island of Cypress because "chypre" is the French word for cypress. This fragrance is an intoxicating mix of floral and earthy with a hint of mystery thrown in for good measure. The chypre group of fragrances is made up of bergamot, jasmine and oakmoss and is often credited to perfumer Francois Coty. Some people liken this fragrance to the flavors of apricot and custard when they are mixed together. The outdoorsy kind of woman who revels in the beauty of nature is likely to favor the chypre fragrance. Examples include Paloma Picasso Perfume, Miss Dior by Christian Dior, Envy Me by Gucci and Michael Kors.

The last category of fragrance is oriental/spicy and is, I have to admit, one of my favorites. The oriental/spicy fragrances are for the self-assured woman who is full of confidence and energy and knows exactly what she wants and how to get it. This fragrance family is sometimes called ambers. Oriental/spicy fragrances are animal scents and vanilla combined with flowers and a bit of the woods. This fragrance group is a mixed bag of lots of different ingredients. The mixture of incense resins and camphorous oils enhances the oriental aspect even more. This is an exotic and spicy fragrance that is well suited to strong, vibrant women who enjoy being bold and radiant in everything they do. The oriental fragrance family brings to mind images of the Victorian era in both the Far East as well as the Middle East. Examples include Calvin Klein's Obsession, Opium by Yves Saint Laurent, Provocative by Elizabeth Arden, Ysatis by Givenchy, Emeraude by Coty, Lancome's Magic Noir and Lancome's Tresor and Still by Jennifer Lopez.

Perfume Categories

2007-10-11T17:55:00.000-07:00

Are you aware that perfumes are broken down into six different categories? They are. There is quite a science to perfume. The six categories include floral/sweet, sporty/clean, green/natural, musk/oils, woody (also known as chypre) and finally, last but not least, oriental/spicy. Let us briefly look at each one of these categories.

Floral/sweet is the most commonly used category of fragrances and this one can be subtle (like a whisper of a scent) or sweet but it brings out the girl in any woman, no matter what her age is. This explains why so many women like this category of scent. Examples include L'Air Du Temps by Nina Ricci, Safari for Women by Ralph Lauren, Pleasures by Estee Lauders, White Linen and Curious by Britney Spears.

The sporty/clean fragrance is, as it implies, a clean scent reminiscent of the refreshing aspect of soap or much like fresh linen after it has been brought inside from the clothesline. This is a "fresh out of the shower" type of clean that is invigorating! Athletic women favor this fragrance category. Examples include Ralph Lauren Polo for Women, Tommy Girl by Tommy Hilfiger (very popular with teenage girls), Lily Chic by Escada and Cashmere Mist by Donna Karan.

Products to Get Your Fall Off to an Excellent Start!

2007-10-07T07:58:00.000-07:00

As the warmth of summer slips into the cooler temperatures of fall and as the leaves begin to turn from green to lots of vibrant reds, yellows and oranges it is time to think of your beauty regimen and how it must be altered for the changing season. First things first. Let us look at some products that can help you ease your skin into the new season:

Pure Divining Moisturizing Body Wash (comes in a variety of scents such as Paradise) $5- $6
Avene Cleanance Soapless Gel Cleanser $22.50
Vichy Normaderm Anti-Imperfection Hydrating Care $28
Aquathermale Exfoliating Body Scrub $32 (Body scrub is a must to shrug off dead skin cells at the start of every new season)
Biotherm Biosource Softening Cleansing Milk $27
Herbal Essences Shampoo (a variety of types- I like the Body Envy but there are plenty to choose from) $3-$4

All prices listed are in Canadian funds. Find these products at your local drug store and some (such as Pure Divine Body Wash and Herbal Essences shampoo) on the shelves at your local grocery store.

The Best Beauty Secret Around

2007-10-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

Do you know one of the top beauty secrets around? If not then you better get with it girlfriend!

It is a very basic one ladies- drink plenty of water on a regular basis. Water helps to promote younger looking skin, not to mention skin that is supple and radiant and glowing with life.

The constant replenishment of water for our bodies is essential to good health in so many ways. Adequate hydration is one of the most overlooked ways of staying healthy. Drinking plenty of water produces energy, regulates body temperature, builds new cells, eliminates waste and lubricates joints. They don’t call this the wonder drug or Mother Nature’s healthy cocktail for nothing!

Make sure you consume at least eight glasses of water per day. As well drink less coffee and tea. As opposed to coffee and/or regular black tea, drink herbal beverages such as green tea, chamomile tea or jasmine tea, which helps to promote healthy, well-hydrated and younger looking skin. And stay away from too much alcohol and carbonated beverages.

If you find water a tad boring (I don’t but you very well may!) then squeeze a little bit of lemon into your glass and fill it up with plenty of ice cubes. Or buy bottled lemon juice and put a little of that into your water glass. Another suggestion is to drink water out of one of your fancy glasses that is usually reserved for company or social occasions. Maybe if you trick your brain into thinking that you are in a partying mood and that you are drinking a wine spritzer instead of good ole water, it will go down a whole lot easier!

Whatever you do make sure you consume plenty of H2O!!!

Leave in Conditioner Talk

2007-10-02T13:30:00.000-07:00

High up on my list of favorite leave in conditioners include Pantene Conditioning Spray, Aussie Mega Miracle Hair Insurance leave in conditioner and Infusium 23 leave in treatment.

Australian jojoba seed oil is the main ingredient in Aussie Mega’s leave in conditioner and this vitamin-enriched formula is instrumental in conditioning the hair, as well as strengthening the hair. Jojoba seed oil is also fantastic for those with long hair who need a product that is an excellent detangler. In fact all of the Aussie line of products are extremely beneficial for protecting hair against many of the negative environmental elements such as humidity and also the wear and tear of everyday life. I remember when Aussie Mega products were only sold in beauty salons. Today they can readily be purchased in any drugstore. Aussie's new Sydney Smooth Heat Protector plus Leave-in Conditioner Spray is da bomb (seriously!) and it is so great for us girls who like smooth, sleek hair but need to heat style our hair in order to get it looking fabulous! The Aussie Dual Personality Spray Gel plus Leave in Conditioner (Flexible Hold) is good too but has a little more of the consistency of hairspray than does the former.

Infusium 23 leave in treatment is infused with (of course!) 23 essential elements that are vitamin and mineral enriched. Infusium 23 counteracts the many things that can put a cramp in your hair such as overprocessing from perms, color and heat styling, too much sun or humidity and harshness in styling, such as pulling the hair back constantly into a tight confining style or constantly teasing the hair, etc. There are three types of leave in treatments for Infusium 23. They include the original formula for hair that is damaged and basically unmanageable; the maximum body formula which adds extra body, volume and shine and the new heat-activated UV cosmetic protection which is for hair that is damaged by too much blow drying and/or heat processing such as damage that relates to hot rollers or curling irons.

As far as Pantene, well this company's products need a post all their own so more on them another day.

All of the products I have listed above sell for between five and eight dollars. These are Canadian prices however since I live in Canada. I have no idea what they sell for in the good ole USA! Ladies always check your flyers and watch for the sales and then stock up! Your hair will thank you for sure!

Welcome all beauty savvy ladies!

2007-09-30T08:02:00.000-07:00

Let us begin by discussing one of my favorite beauty inventions of the past ten (or so) years. Any ideas? Leave in conditioner! Oh, I love the stuff! How did we ever live without it?