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CES: Day 1 Recap

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We got in to Las Vegas just before 1 p.m. on Monday. Checked in to the hotel, and despite the Internet going in & out, it’s been nice. Woke up early today (Tuesday), after a restless night due to body aches, and covered South Hall 1 & 3. Most of the vendors in the South Halls carry mobile accessories, such as this plastic iPhone 6 case:

Image courtesy of H. Nelson
Image courtesy of H. Nelson

 

 Remember those oil-in-water toys when we were kids? Well, you can now relive your youth. . . or at least that part of it. This color can be changed to virtually hue, and the little hearts can be changed to cars, dolphins, or whatever your little heart desires! Yes, they are wholesale, and no, they do not sell just one at a time. I did a quick search, though, and the cases can be purchased for virtually all phones here. There are also glitter-in-water cases, such as the kind foundhere. The image on the right shows how much will be added to the depth of the phone; not bad, eh?  The plastic is strong, but I haven’t been able to test my sample yet. . . I’m not sure how well they hold up nor do I know what it takes to crack them. If you have tested this style out, please let me know what you think!

Image courtesy of Amazon.com
Since my photographer and I are both gamers, we stopped at Turtle Beachto see what was coming out. Their booth had giant headphones, and we couldn’t resist taking a picture with them.   Below is a photo of one of the displays, featuring Turtle Beach and the Xbox One.

Image courtesy of H. Nelson

 While he is a Turtle Beach fan, I fully support Razer. They have wonderful gaming products that are easily customized to fit your needs. We met Ryan who introduced us to the Chroma line, and I can’t wait to complete the set. I upgraded my Naga mouse to the Chroma, and hopefully soon, I will have the headset and keyboard to go with it. If you are in the market for a new mouse and aren’t sure which is best for your needs, you can utilize the MouseSelector tool at the bottom of the page. The Chroma headset, in terms of noise-canceling, is comparable to those that Bose produces (and at a fraction of the cost). All three Chroma products can be synced to display the same color or color patterns. What is life without a little color?! To make things even better, the Razer team is fantastic! They know their product lines, and are passionate about providing well-made, aesthetically pleasing products that will last. Power to the gamers!

Razer logo.  Image courtesy of H. Nelson
Image courtesy of RazerZone.com

Chroma keyboard image courtesy of H. Nelson
Image courtesy of RazerZone.com

  

Image courtesy of RazerZone.com

As we moved through the hall, we came upon Brookstone.  They carry some really innovative products, like the Perfect Bake. I remember seeing this back when I was Christmas shopping, and thought, “What a useless product! How lazy can you possibly be?” until it was demoed. The Perfect Bake is a way, for even the most novice baker, to prepare amazing baked goods, flawlessly. I don’t believe there is a person on this planet who could mess up any recipe that is included. The product comes with three differently sized measuring bowls (but you can always use your own), a scale, and an app. The scale connects to your phone via the headphone jack, and automatically alters the recipe to suit your needs. Have a recipe for 24 cookies, but you only need 12?  No problem! The app will automatically adjust each item in the recipe to suit your needs. Whether you need 1 or 100, they’ve got you covered. As you fill the bowl, the line on each individual ingredient will rise until you have just enough. Did you accidentally put too much flour in the bowl? That’s not a problem either, as the app will adjust the amount for each item as it does for different quantities.

Image courtesy of Brookstone.com
Now, we move on to vlogging and video chat. Move over cameras and video chat; iTOi is here!  We got to test it out, and I absolutely love it! This portable, iPad-friendly machine works as a video recorder and prompter for those who want to vlog but hate having to look into a camera. The product works with your iPad to create a meaningful dialogue between you and your viewers. No more looking off into a camera, and no more editing from a camera. You can adjust the prompter speed and edit directly from your iPad. Don’t like what you see? Scroll back, change the text speed (if you use that feature), and start over. This product serves more than just the vlogging community. If you are like me, and prefer to have a script ready, you can create a flawless presentation for any event. The unavoidable disconnect between individuals in a virtual meeting does a 180, turning it into a personal experience, because you are looking directly at the person, not at a camera. When I FaceTime my friends in Australia, I am always looking at the camera when I am talking to them, and they do the same. It looks like we are not communicating with each other, and there is no way to see what is going on when you’re not looking. You can also use iTOi to chronicle life’s adventures, which will allow your future kin to see what went on in a day in the life of you. Create a video resume that is professional and personal, with iToi. You can purchase the iTOi from Brookstone, here.
 

Image courtesy of seeitoi.com

Better Late Than Never

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Okay, so it’s been almost a month since CES.  Life happens, which is why these are being posted so late.  Everything posted is what we happened to see.  Since there were 3.5 days of the show, there was a lot, I’m sure, that we missed.  I’ll also have the other make-up posts uploaded soon.  If you have any ideas for future posts, let me know!  In the meantime, here are some pictures from the show.  All images are courtesy of H. Nelson:

Zano camera drone
Nvidia

Gowin
How cute are these?!

3D printed drums!
Comic-inspired 3D sugar sculpture

This dress will attack anyone who gets too close!
3D printed working guitar!
A close-up of the guitar.

Tech Tuesday: KiiTAG 2

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Life n Soul, who brought the world the KiiTAG and amazing Bluetooth headsets, has something new up its sleeve.  While at CES, there were a number of inventions that would make daily life that much easier.  The KiiTAG 2, which is a CES 2015 Best of Innovations Award honoree, is one of those.  It is important to note that the item is not currently for sale.  Their Kickstarter has launched, and I sincerely hope they are able to reach their goal. 
Image courtesy of Kickstarter & Life n Soul
Developed by Founder/CEO Ronny Tsai, the KiiTAG 2 is an all-in-one that is equipped with a flash drive, key finder, voice memo recorder, mini power bank, and so much more!  He wanted to create an all-in-one, pocket-sized device that would provide several functions without weighing down one’s pocket or purse.  Up to four shortcuts can be made on the KiiTAG 2, such as the “fake phone call” (which will give you an excuse to leave a date, for instance, if it starts to go south) or phone finder, all of which can be synced to the dedicated KiiTAG 2 app.  The app, compatible with Android and iOS devices, allows everything to be stored and managed in one place.    
You can support the project on Kickstarter by clicking here.  The KiiTAG 2 will retail for $79.99 and $89.99 for the 8GB and 16GB, respectively.  However, if you decide to back the project, you can get the 8GB for the special price of $60, or the 16GB for $70.  If you live in the United States, shipping is free! 

Back to Posting

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I know it has been awhile.  I had planned to have my review of CES posted last week, but due to unforeseen circumstances, that did not happen. 

Hopefully you all have been having a great week!

Las Vegas Bound: CES 2015!

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So, I wasn’t able to get my posts in this week, and it’s because I’ve been prepping for my Vegas trip.  I will be attending CES 2015, and can’t wait!  I will try to post make-up posts for this past week, and keep up next week, but I can’t make any promises.

Here is what I will be taking during this trip:

TPG Clear Soft Pack (Large & Medium)

Image property of thepowdergroup.com

I absolutely LOVE these!  I’ve had mine for years, and they look brand new.  Each pack I have houses everything from makeup and brushes, to docking stands and charging cords.  The plastic is strong and durable, and each pack can be washed.  A little soapy water will do the trick.  The large size fits several palettes, individual shadows, and a brush roll.  I can also fit all of my cords, mouse, note cards, and pens with room to spare, or clothes, for short trips.  The medium is perfect for long trips, when I need to take more toiletries that normal.  They also have a longer case that can be filled with pens/pencils/highlighters, brushes, eye/lip liners, or eye/lip pencils.

MAC Pro Palette in matte/shimmer neutrals.

Zuca Pro Artist

Image property of zuca.com

 Zuca was established in 2004.  In that time, their line has expanded to include bags for kids, an artist collection that includes backpacks, graphic prints, etc.  The one in the image is the one I have.  It conveniently fits in the overhead bin when I fly, and since it weighs practically nothing (under 10 lbs) it feels like you’re pulling nothing…even when it’s full!  I’ve filled it with well over 20 lbs, and I forget that I’m even pulling a bag.  It also holds up to 300 lbs on the top, so you can sit on it while you’re waiting in the security line.  All of the accessories, such as the Artist Backpack, is made to conveniently fit over the handle, and rest on the seat of the Zuca.  This roller goes EVERYWHERE with me, whether I am flying, driving, or going to the local tea house.

Macbook Air

Image property of apple.com

I purchased my MacBook Air a couple of years ago, and it has been one of the best purchases I’ve made.  Admittedly, I purchased it from their refurbished site, since it was significantly less.  It does not come with a DVD drive; if you need one, you can purchase the external here.  I am working on my PhD, so all of my work is on it, including everything for my dissertation.  When I start to lose space, I back it all up on my external hard drive.  That way, I can make sure there is enough space for all of my work.         

…and of course clothes & walking shoes.

Tech Tuesday: "You Spin Me Right Round" featuring Clarisonic

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I cannot even being to express how much I love my Clarisonic.  I have the original (I think at one time it was called the “Classic”) in white.  You know, the bulkier, heavier device with its own mount.  Despite its bulk and weight, it has been great for my skin, and 5 (give or take) years later it still works like a charm.  The beep and pause, both of which are still present in the newer versions, let the user know that it’s time to change areas on the face.  After realizing I would be traveling quite a bit more than usual, I figured if one is good, then two must be better.  I purchased the Mia 2 when all Clarisonic devices went on sale at Sephora awhile back.  They no longer carry it in yellow, which is the color I chose.  Another plus with both devices is the charge, which is phenomenal!  One full charge easily lasts me a month on the original device, and the same goes for the Mia 2.  The biggest difference, aside from the obvious changes that come with product development such as:  beep tone, size, and weight, is that the Mia 2 comes with a travel case.  It seems trivial, but makes all the difference.  I don’t have to worry about the device being damaged or contaminated, since it is completely enclosed.  Here’s how it goes for shorter trips:  24-hour charge, place the Mia 2 in the case, and toss it in my carry-on! No need to include the charger.  The Mia 2 also has two speeds, giving your skin a deeper cleanse when it needs it.   Clarisonic works even if you have sensitive skin.

I get sporadic breakouts, and the medication I am on (coupled with the aging process) has caused dry patches near my temples.  I only began to notice this when I stopped using my Clarisonic, simply because I was lazy.  Within two days, my skin was noticeably different, and the dry patches were all but gone!  During the winter months, I need something a little bit more hydrating, so I couple my Clarisonic with Boots No. 7 Beautiful Skin Melting Gel Cleanser at night, followed by a toner, face oil, serum, and moisturizer.  In the morning, I use Clarisonic with Sunday Riley Ceramic Skin Cleanser, followed by toner, face oil, SPF, and moisturizer.  In the event that I have broken out, I add a spritz of calamine lotion to my moisturizer.
   

Image property of Clarisonic on Amazon.com

Apparently some people have noticed “skin purging”, and break out the first few times they have used it.  Personally, I have never experienced this, and highly recommend that a dermatologist be contacted if that happens.

Do you love Clarisonic as much as I do?  Is there something else on the market that is comparable?  List your opinions in the comments below, or send me a message.

Stay beautiful!

Night & Day: My Facial Skincare Routine

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I figured I would post my own skincare routine…well, for my face anyway.  Soon, it will be a new year.  After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, your skin is probably in need of a little TLC, especially your face.  The winter weather (or summer, depending on where you are) can make your skin a chaotic mess.  Listed below are my day and night routines for keeping my skin amazing and free of dry spots and blemishes. 

Day Routine: 

Clarisonic + Ceramic Slip
Witch Hazel (as a toner)
Fresh Seaberry Face Oil
Peter Thomas Roth SPF 30
Boots No. 7 Beautiful Skin Night Cream OR The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Cream
(optional) Spritz of Calamine Lotion

Night Routine:

Clarisonic + Boots No. 7 Beautiful Skin Melting Gel Cleanser OR AmorePacific Treatment Cleansing Foam
Witch Hazel (as a toner) 
Fresh Seaberry Face Oil 
Boots No. 7 Beautiful Skin Night Cream (dry/very dry) OR LUSH Celestial Moisturizer
(optional) Spritz of Calamine Lotion

Image property of Clarisonic.com
Image property us.amorepacific.com
Image property of SundayRiley.com

Image property of Walgreens.com
Image property of fresh.com

Image property of target.com

Image property of sephora.com
Image property of thebodyshopusa.com
Image property of lushusa.com
Image property of Walgreens.com

Recently, I purchased the Lancome Genefique serum, but it made me break out, so I will be returning it.  I also received a deluxe sample of the Sunday Riley Good Genes serum, which I am excited try.  Hopefully it works better than the Lancome one.  I’m also debating on whether to buy the Seaberry face oil.  It was a deluxe sample, and while it is effective, I’m not sure if it is worth the price.

What is your routine?  Do you have anything you can’t be without?  Let me know in the comments or send me a message.  

Makeup Monday: Avoiding the Crease with Too Faced!

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I have tried nearly every eyeshadow primer out there:  Benefit, Smashbox, Urban Decay, Too Faced, etc. and the two that have worked the best for me are Urban Decay and Too Faced.  The Benefit and Smashbox brands box made my shadow crease within an hour or so.  I am focusing on Too Faced tonight because of the wide variety of finishes that their Shadow Insurance comes in.  At IMATS LA last year, I purchased one of each type of Shadow Insurance.  I love each of them for different reasons.  Here are some pros and cons of each–one of the biggest pros that they all share is that they do not come with a wand.  Not only does it make the primer easier to apply, it also makes it easy to use in any setting, whether you are working on a bride, shoot, or going for a night on the town.  Remember that a little will cover both lids, so about the amount of half a pea or less should do the trick.  Let it set while you prep, then color it up with your favorite shadow hues.  One tube, with regular use, lasts about 4-6 months or more, depending on how much you apply. 

 
Picture property of toofaced.com

The original Shadow Insurance is matte, flesh-toned, and blends in with any skin color.  The product goes on smooth, and won’t leave streaks across your lids.  As with all of them, just a drop will last for hours.

Picture property of toofaced.com

Candlelight is one of my favorites because it adds just a little bit of (sophisticated) lemon-gold shimmer that really makes the shadow pop.  It can also be used alone as a highlight, without being overpowering.   

Picture property of toofaced.com

Champagne has the deepest color of the primers.  It is a light bronze that can be built up and used alone or with eyeshadow.  The bronze color, in my opinion looks best on light-medium to dark skin tones.  Using it, especially lightly, can make those with lighter skin tones look tired–of course, with the right eyeshadow application, it will work with all skin tones.    


Picture property of toofaced.com



This brings us to the last of the shadow primers (not including the glitter glue, which I, personally, don’t care for): Lemondrop.  This is my favorite because it works like most yellow-based color correctors.  It lightens up any dark areas of the lids and provides an all-day, no-crease base for your eyeshadow.  This primer is matte, so I do not recommend that it be used solo. 

Overall, I LOVE-LOVE-LOVE Too Faced Shadow Insurance.  It’s long-lasting formula sets the foundation for amazing eyes all day (and night) long!  Each type provides something extra to your look, whether you’re it’s simple or sultry.  The tubes last for ages, and as I said, just a drop will do.  They fit great in any makeup bag/kit, and the primer can be applied with your finger tips, brush, or sponge.  

Sadly, I will not be attending this coming IMATS.  Because of the changes that have been made, it is no longer a pro-focused event.  If you are attending, be sure to pick up one, two, or all of them, and let me know what you think.  Do you have a favorite primer?  If so, I’d love to know what it is.  Drop a comment or send me a message.

Pro Tip:  If you want the truest shadow, apply a small (and I mean SMALL) amount of a white concealer or base, such as Inglot’s Cream Concealer 37 after you’ve applied the primer and it has set.  Next, apply your shadow.  Be careful, though…you don’t want to buff everything so it doesn’t
look like your lids are covered in white paint–when you’re done, the white should not be noticable.   

Fashion Friday: Oh Kale Yeah!

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I saw Bad Pickle Tees at a craft fair and purchased a couple of tanks and a tote.  They print on my favorite tanks, by American Apparel, and carry other t-shirts, totes, and kids apparel at reasonable prices.     

I bought Oh Kale Yeah! in gray, and the soba tank in a royal blue:

Picture property of Bad Pickle Tees
Picture property of Bad Pickle Tees

They are so comfortable!  It’s like when you find the perfect shirt; you always want to wear it.  The other great thing is the sizing.  I can wear anything from a small to a large in this tank.  When they are washed, they do not shrink (if they do, it’s not noticeable), and take up hardly any space if you decide to travel with one.  Tanks can also be layered, so keep that in mind when choosing a size.  

I also bought this tote (Dimensions:  14 1/2″W x 15 1/2″H; 22″L handles):

Picture property of Bad Pickle Tees

    
This heavyweight canvas tote is perfect for a day at your local Farmer’s Market, the gym, or next overnight trip.  I am able to fit my Olivia + Joy wallet, MacBook Air, iPhone 6, and makeup bag, with room to spare!  Does organic matter to you?  If it does, this tote is made from 100% organic cotton and recycled fibers, just so you know.  

Make a statement about the food you love, in shirt and bag form, with Bad Pickle Tees.