Forever Fierce

February 19, 2018


Happy Monday lovelies!!  It is a great day!  I am so excited to be sharing with you not only my idea of what I think it means to be fierce in midlife, but the ideas of a few thousand other ladies as well! Yes, you read that correctly.  Today is Forever Fierce Day and I have collaborated with 50 other bloggers; who just happen to be fierce sisters!  We all have asked a few friends, neighbors, and even family members to share what they think.  Read all of their stories here #Foreverfierce.  Is midlife the wrong side of 40?  I don't think so, actually I know it's not!  So I am asking you today too... what does being fierce in midlife mean to you? 



Below are the things I have discovered in midlife:

I let go of the drama that people surround themselves with.  I embrace the changes in my body and still rock a bikini.  Gravity is inevitable, but self esteem and pride in your life is priceless. 

Skincare has always been important to me and I continue to take good care of my skin.  Adapting to the changes has just meant adding a few new items! 

Wisdom is grand; with age comes the knowledge that it is sometimes better to observe rather than speak.  Changing my diet has been a huge benefit!  I eat more fruits and vegetables and have cut out processed food.  About 6 years ago I switched up totally and became mostly vegetarian. (With the exception of sushi of course).  So technically it's called pescaterian.  

Happiness is something that you are; a state of mind.  I have been called brave for my journey and I'll take that with my head high!  I was brave, still am actually.  If you read my post, Life Begins at the end of your Comfort Zone then you will see that I may have been down, but I am now back up and empowered!  My passion burns brighter than my fear and I am full of drive and motivation and I won't get in my own way.  Change is always on the horizon and I choose to grow with it.  I will reach again for what is in me.  I will fiercely forge a new path and set out on it - boldly, while making no excuses.  









So, tell me...what does fierce in midlife mean to you?  Click here to join the movement! 

3 Things I learned with Chanel

June 06, 2016
I attended a beauty event last Tuesday evening hosted by The Blog Guild and Town Center Crossing Macy's in Leawood. The Chanel beauty counter was our featured beauty product for this evenings event and we were treated to gorgeous color palettes, fabulous fragrances, and a skin care that will make you feel like a million bucks! Town Center Macy's in Leawood is the only Macy's in Kansas that has a Chanel counter.  That makes it very handy for when you need a refill of a product, or to play with the new colors.  With out all the hassle of the mall, the Town Center Crossing Macy's is a perfect spot to shop.





 Our theme for the evening was Eyes speak volumes, and we were going for dramatic eyes.  It's funny how you can wear makeup for so many years and yet there is always something new to learn.  I love when a makeup line evolves with the trends.  Rance, our consultant for the class was wonderful.  He took the time to assist each person with the right product for her skin type, showed us all how to do a perfect tight line, and even had some of us stepping out of our comfort zones (me) in colors we generally would select.  (It wasn't a pink lipstick)





So what 3 things did I learn? 

  • When you apply a tight line to your upper lid keep it on the lashes in a dotting pattern, not drawing a line motion.  It applies so smooth and glides right on. 

  • To select your correct shade of blush, make a tight fist, then release it and squeeze your ring finger (any finger will do) at the tip.  The color your finger tip shade is will be your natural blush of your cheeks



  • Apply your eye cream to the orbital bone of your eye.  Not actually directly under the eye area.  Believe it or not, you can actually over hydrate the delicate skin under your eyes and you will create white bumps.

I was the model for the evening so the only pics I have of my makeup are from my snapchat!!
My new favorite products I added to my makeup bag are the Le Volume mascara, Lash Primer, and I love the CC cream.


What are some of your favorite Chanel products?  Anything I need to know about?




Wednesday Wants

May 18, 2016

This weeks edition of Wednesday Wants is trends that are on point this season.  From off the shoulders to scallop swim wear.... you can't go wrong with any of these.   I love this roundup.  If you are in to fun footwear you can go with a great wedge or a fun colorful tennis shoe.  Off the shoulders, flowy boho tops, or scallops.... what ever you fancy these are sure to keep you on trend!  Contouring is all abuzz and if you are any good at it then I applaud you.  If a soft all in one palette is more your speed, then this one is for you.  Easy and all in one compact it would travel well in your bag for quick touchups too. 
Happy Wednesday!



Off The Shoulder  //  Boho Tunic  //   Wedges  //  Swimsuit  //  Instant look in a palette  //  Bright Nikes  //

How to Layer with Jo Malone Fragrances

April 07, 2016
I have worn Jo Malone for many years so when The Blog Guild and Nordstrom teamed up to teach us the art of layering you can bet I was thrilled.  If you have never experienced time at the Jo Malone counter you really need to stop and spend some time there.  The sales associates will guide you through the art of layering and what it really entails.  They show you how to blend your fragrances and learn the notes in each one so you find your very own signature scent.  I love that they are so rich and luxurious that you may wear each fragrance as a stand alone or layer one, two or even three fragrances at a time. 
My "signature scent"  Jo Malone favorites that I layer are Pomegranate Noir and Nectarine Blossom and Honey, and Grapefruit and Orange Blossom.  If you find a favorite.... be sure to stay in touch with your local Jo Malone counter as they retire fragrances on occasion and you may find yourself down to the last drops of a bottle and not be able to replace it.  It has happen to me and I heard last evening that they retired Vanilla Anise.  I will sparingly use the half bottle I still have now. 
Jo-Malone


Jo-Malone-Perfumes


  So last night I explored the counter and may have found a new combination.... I will wear a sample of this combination to see how I like it throughout the day, but I can already tell I like these both as individual fragrances.  Do you have a favorite Jo Malone combination?  Share with me in the comments so I can try your favorite scent!  



10 makeup rules for woman over 40

January 05, 2016
Makeup can be tricky when you are young and then with practice, you hopefully become pretty good at it.  Then life happened and gravity happens and next thing you know what you thought was still working for you beauty wise was actually adding age to your face. 

The way you apply your makeup in your 20's and the rules you use to make your face appear fresh and rested and creating a more radiant look, cannot be the same as the ones you use when you reach 40 or even 50+. Each age has its particularities and by adapting according you will accentuate your beauty rather than add age to your face. 

Following a few basic and common sense rules you can highlight your beauty.  Remember the cardinal rule..... less is more especially when it comes to makeup.  Your skin looses some elasticity as we age and that creates a bit of sagging and wrinkles but that doesn't mean you can't accentuate your beauty.   Hey I don't create the facts, just sharing them. 

Over-40-Makeup-Tips-Tricks

Here are the most common and basic rules or advices for ladies over 40 who want to improve their makeup application process correctly. I'm listing them in order of what I feel is most important to begin changing to improve your routine.  
  • Dark Eyeliner - Don't use it anymore.  Not only will dark liners make your eyes appear smaller, it makes you look tired and aged.  Opt for a chocolate brown if you still want to stay dark without using black. A nice navy or green is a good choice as well. 
  • Under Eye Lining - Only line the top eyelid.  By lining both the top and bottom is closes up the eye and highlights your under eye wrinkles.  You want to brighten your eyes and you will by choosing to not line under the eye.
  • Dark Lipstick - As we age our lips thin naturally.  You may have been the queen of a great dark lip in your 20's or 30's  but all it will do for you know is add a few years and enhance fine lines.  Experiment with what is the best shade for you and try to stay in the softer pinks, peaches or nudes.  These are my favorites here and here
  • Concealer - Check to make sure your under eye concealer is still the correct color choice for your dark circles.  Over time your under eyes will darken so you will want to adjust your concealer to compensate.  Make sure you are using a cream concealer and moisturizing well under your eyes.  Dry under eyes will enhance fine lines.
  • Moisturize - Eye cream is a must.  Don't skip this step in your beauty routine.  I swear by this cream.  

  • Foundations - I started using this Laura Mercier foundation last spring and love it.  It is light and barely there.  Perfect for the days I don't want a lot of fuss; pool days, and running errands, but for the other days when I want to apply a full face of makeup I use this Chanel foundation.  I love how light and smooth it goes on.  Both of these foundations have SPF too. 
  • Natural Blush - When I say glowing I don't mean radiating.  A natural blush color is what you are wanting.  Your blush should be softer and appear more natural rather than applied.  Age increases the red pigments in our face so again play around with colors and avoid reds, browns, and brighter pinks.
  • Eyelashes - If you are using black it's time to switch it up.  Opt for a dark brown and remember, only apply a small amount to your lower eye lashes.  You are going for a barely there look on the lower ones.
  • Eyebrows - Make sure you are working with a good natural shape.  If they are over plucked ( gosh I hope not) let them grow back in.  Fill in any bare or thin spots with a great pencil  a shade or two darker than your hair color. I have tried several brands and found this one works great for me and applies so gently.
  • Wet Lines also called Tight lines - If you have no idea what I am talking about let me explain.  The inner lid of your eyes is called your wet line.  This is the area of your eyelid that actually against your eyes.  You have a upper wet line and a lower wet line.  Adding eye liner to your upper lid will open up your eyes.  Adding a neutral or cream color to your lower wet line will eliminate any red from tired eyes and also opens up your eyes.  A note:  If you wear contacts it may irritate your eyes.  Also it takes practice.  I use this pencil on my lower wet line and love it on days my eyes are looking tired.

    Do you have any tips to share? 

Gifts Under 25

December 18, 2015
We are in the final stretch of Christmas! Can you believe it's one week away? Are you ready? I have a few items left to pick up and I am done. Next week is a short work week for most and I bet a lot of you will be traveling home for the holiday. The temperature has finally dropped into the 20's here in Kansas making it feel more like the holiday season. It fun to see everyones tree from their front window and the houses lit up on my drive home from work. This time next week I bet all the pretty wrapping, the perfectly placed packages under the tree, the fluffy bows and tissue will be in one big heap in the floor and your care for each gift you gave will be told. Finding something for everyone and staying within your budget can be tricky. If you are still in need a few items then this is a perfect roundup. With all these gifts under 25 you can pick up all those last minute items and still have time to enjoy your decorated home, a nice cozy evening by the fire and your favorite holiday shows.



1  /  2  / 3 /  4 /  5  / 6  

Cozy and Nice

December 07, 2015
When you think of Christmas you think red and green.  Well today I am sharing my favorite roundup of gifts in a non traditional color; my favorite of course.  This entire wish list can show up under my tree and I wouldn't miss the red or green at all




Flamingo Ornament  / 2 Sheer Lip Gloss / 3 Polish  / 4 Brezza Flats  / 5 Checkered Robe / 6 Blush Tote / 7 Phone Case  / 8 Bath Bombs / 9 Scallop Pink Blouse ( On Sale) / 10 Lounge pants / 11 Drawstring bag  / 12 Mug Toppers 


Gifts under 50

November 24, 2015
Sometimes finding a gift for everyone on your list can be a task.  Today's gift guide is gifts for the budget friendly shopping list.  Cute, functional, and oh so pleasing!  Whether they are into collecting items, (Beer cap States) to drinking coffee or infused water this roundup has something for everyone!  Oh... and that leopard tassel?  I carry everyday and love mine! 




Earrings  /  Citrus Zinger Bottle  /   Bow Arm Warmers    /  Prisma Frame     Black and Gold Dots Tray   /  Butter Polish  /  Laura Geller Eye pallete   /  Monogram Mug  Beer Cap Map   /  Leopard Tassel   /  Jo Malone Bath Oils  /  Happy Plugs Ear buds  /  Gold Kiss Mug 

Gift Guide for Stocking Stuffers

November 20, 2015
Some of the best gifts my kids have received they said were in their stockings.  I love filling their stockings and to this day it is still the first thing they want to open.  





Big O Keyring /   Jo Malone Set   /  Manicure Set  / Slip Silk Sleep Mask  /  Bando Selfie Case  / The Giving Key Necklace   /  Pink Beanie  /  Large Wishbone ornaments   /  Mantra Bands Bracelets  /  Truffle Privacy wristlet   /  Rabbit Ears Frame   /  Swell Champagne Bottle  

Must Have Beauty Tools

November 19, 2015
Ok all you beauty babes.... this is for you! 






Pink Lip Compact   Three shades of pink for this pallet is all you will need to take you from day to night!

Brush Kit  Compact and colorful, what girl couldn't use a new set of brushes.


Mascara Guard   this fabulous little gadget protects your eye area from freshly applied mascara so it's not all over your face. You can use it under lower lashes  or above upper lashes.

Fabulips Bliss Massaging    Dry weather can mean dry lips.  This massager is designed for your lips to softly exfoliate your pout with a gentle rotation and massaging nubs to remove flakiness and dryness.

Charcoal Swabs    These cotton swabs aren't you your ordinary tips.  Use these charcoal swabs for a quick fix to your eyeliner, remove makeup in hard to reach places or touch up in spots.  They are dual ended and the black color shows highlighters, and luminizers better than a traditional white swab.

Beauty Spatula   Genius.  I know we have all squeezed our tubes of products to get ever last drop out and when its costly that important.  Well with these small little spatulas you never have to throw expensive product away.  Scoop out every last ounce.

EyeLash Curler   This little gadget is compact and easy to travel with.  Creating a long lasting curl with the easy of tucking it away for streamline storage. 

Silicone Brush Cleaner     Brush Cleaning Mat      Express Brush Cleaner    Keeping your makeup brushes clean is a must.  I found one for you no matter what your needs.   For traveling or the gal on the go the express cleaner is for you.  If you're more into a larger cleaning area then the cleaning mat is for you.  But no matter what you can't go wrong with the glove.  Just slip it on to your hand and swirl the bristles over the grooves.  It removes pigment and deep cleans without damaging your fibers.




Instagram Happenings

October 12, 2015
Happy Monday!  How was your weekend?  Mine was busy and productive, but never long enough! Today I am sharing a few favorites from my instagram account of what's happening there.  Do you follow me on instagram?  There are exciting things I am working on behind the scenes in my office and my blog so stay tune for that announcement.  It is finally cool enough to wear my favorite booties.... and found the perfect amount of distress on a new pair of jeans for under $60.  Sharing my favorite lipstick color and tortoise sunnies.  There is something to wearing this pink color even in fall that just makes me happy!  OH, and it's #Pinktober and that means Breast Cancer Awareness and lots of pink!


Distressed Denim ~ Booties ~ Sunnies ~ Favorite Lipstick ~ Monogram Necklace ~ Pink Clutch ~ Python Cuff c/o~ Ropes Bracelets c/o ~ Hot Pink Celine Necklace

KC Fashion Week Recap

October 01, 2015
Art
This past weekend, myself along with bloggers and fashion aficionados packed into the Kansas City Union Station to see the upcoming Spring/Summer 2016 collections from local and regional designers. Raising awareness for melanoma; KCFW partnered with Fair & Fashionable and requested the attendees wear black on Thursday to show support for the awareness of melanoma. Over 200,000  people are diagnosed with skin cancer every year according to the Mayo Clinic.  The idea behind the movement is to inspire people to change their belief; simply put, that natural skin tone is in style and healthier than suntanned. 



With each designer taking the runway, I found myself saying this was my favorite look.... until the next designer took the runway!  So here are a few of my top picks from the event.  To learn more about Kansas City Fashion Week, visit their website!







Alexis Cook









 Michael Drummond






Paulie Gibson





























Gorgeous designs for sure.  What is your favorite look from the event?  I can't wait for spring to attend the next show! 



Blush Moto Jacket

September 23, 2015
Banana_Republic_Moto_Jacket

Well we have made it half way through the week and that means were so much closer to the weekend!!  I have been super excited to share my new moto jacket with you.  With the perfect amount of pink and details it is going to be on full fall rotation!  Speaking of rotation.... these distressed jeans are the best.  I know I said I would not pay good money for a pair of jeans already torn up but a few rips in the knees are okay by me!  I can't do the full on entire ripped sections missing from the jeans but I do like the look on younger gals! 

 Style tip:  When wearing a jacket or top that is cut above your hips be sure to add a high heel and a solid dark on the lower half to give the illusion of more height; because lets be honest.... none of us want to look wider!! 


Black_Distress_Pink_Moto_Jacket





Blush Moto Jacket ~ Striped Tee (On Sale) ~ Distressed Jeans ~ Shoes ( love these) ~ Clutch (Alternative) ~ Watch ~ Lipstick ~


The Big Launch Party

August 18, 2015


I know I have hardly talked about my venture and my co founders, but the day has arrive!  We have been working for over 6 months on this day and can I tell ya? ..... It feels so good!  Formally know as The Kansas City Blogger Meetup, we knew we had outgrown the name.  It was time for a fresh look and a new approach to gathering bloggers together.  The Blog Guild is the brain child of Emily, myself and Erin.  We wanted to define what it was we loved so much about meeting up with other bloggers and share with our fabulous community we have here in KC.  The three key elements for all three of us was to Create a community for bloggers who can Connect with other like minded gals who share a similar passion.  We know that building a relationship with companies is what it takes to make a great Collaboration that is mutually beneficial for both the brand and the blogger.    I would love for you to take a peek and click around, check out our resources page, and if you are local.... well by all means send us your info so we can add you to the membership!   Do you have a bloggers group where you live?  Don't fret if not..... we have you covered as well; shoot us an email and we will set up a meeting to share with you how you can bring The Blog Guild to your city!  

Here is just a small peek at the evening.  I am sure I will have plenty more to share soon! 






Kendra Scott Jewelry opened a new store locally here and so graciously hosted our launch party.  Can you say jewelry, shopping discount, sips and snacks?  Yup, it was a grand evening.  We had photo props, a braid bar courtesy of Parlor Blowdry Beauty Bar and gave away a bunch of Kendra Scott Jewelry  to a few lucky bloggers in attendance.  I have my eye on these earrings and this necklace!  






Thanks for following along and I can't wait to see where I go from here!  I know one thing, It's time to start sharing my fall outfits.  Can you believe it?  

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