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Makeup Monday: OCC Lip Tar

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Makeup Monday is here!  Have you ever loved a brand so much that you wanted one of everything?  Awhile back, I saved enough to do just that at IMATS LA, with one of my favorite brands, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics (OCC).  While I don’t much care for the name, I can live with it knowing the quality of their products.  OCC makes one of my favorite lip products of all time, Lip Tar.  I have been using Lip Tars on myself as well on clients for years.  They come in a wide variety of colors and finishes.  From nudes to reds to off-the-wall colors, such as Rollergirl (vibrant lavender) and Technopagan (blackened purple w/blue pearl), anything is possible!  Finishes come in matte, metallic, and (new) gloss.  Lip Tars can be used alone or combined to create your own, one-of-a-kind color.  All colors are versatile and wonderful for creating the perfect pout for all occasions.  Lip Tars will ensure a gorgeous and unforgettable long-lasting lip, whether you use them in your next drag show, cosplay, costume event, party or just a night on the town.  Remember:  A little goes a long way!  One small drop provides full-color coverage, and the pigment lasts for hours.  Of course, you can always make the pigment more sheer by blotting or simply using less.  Oh, and did I mention that all of their products are cruelty-free andvegan?  Sets are now available, and include a lip brush and either full-sized or mini-versions of Lip Tars to try.  You can also blend Lip Tars with different OCC glitter/loose pigments and pencils for added texture and effects!  Do you use OCC?  What is your favorite color or color combination?   



 
**ALL IMAGES ARE PROPERTY OF OCC COSMETICS** 






A Note to My Family (Mom’s Side)

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The holidays are supposed to be a time for gatherings, family dinners (whether they are blood or not), and fun festivities.  Even though I love the holiday season, I meet it with some apprehension.  My family, particularly on my mom’s side, has been through a lot of tragedy in the past few years.  The following note is to them (and yes, I will post one directed towards Dad’s side at a later date): 

The passing of loved ones and the circumstances surrounding them have placed a dark cloud over the joy and excitement that usually takes over this time of year.  While it is more consuming for some than others, I find it interesting how we all deal with it.  Instead of letting negativity get the best of us, some are able to truly be elated during the holidays because that is how our relatives would want it.  They would never want negativity to put a damper on our happiness– during the holidays or any other time of the year.  Then there are those who are not able to cope, and despite the best efforts of others, are unable to see anything positive in the wake of tragedy.  That being said, I am so proud to be a part of a family where we are always, ALWAYS, there for each other, notably during the times when we need it the most.  I am consistently amazed at how resilient my family is.  Hundreds of miles separate us, and hardship and blessings bring us together.  If there is anything to be learned, it is truly to live each day to its fullest, not matter how you define it, and let those you love know it.

I love you all!
Carin    

Small Business Saturday: Chen Essentials

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 Who doesn’t like to support small businesses?  Today, I am featuring my friend, Stephanie Chen’s, online shop:  Chen Essentials.  The products feature doTERRA essential oils as well as doTERRA essential oil products.  Wellness experts have discussed the benefits of essential oils.  Personally, I love to use and have used essential oils (I love anything minty!) in my own homemade skincare.  Chen Essentials offers a wide array of single oils, oil blends, and supplements that are great for aromatherapy, skin, and overall wellness.  One of my favorite items is the 8-Vial Keychain (you’ll have to scroll down a bit to find it), which allows you to take eight of your favorites on-the-go ($6.50).  Diffusers, organizers, and bottle cap stickers ensure that you never lose track of your bottles.  Most products can be purchased as single-items or in kits/packages.  There are also promotional incentives if you decide to become a wholesaler ($35.00/year), such as a percentage off of packages and optional rewards programs.  If you’d like more information, please see the contact information listed below. 

Contact Info:
Chen Essentials
chenessentials@gmail.com
951-533-5153.
   

Fashion Friday: "Baby, It’s Cold Outside!"

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Today is Friday, which means it’s time to discuss something related to…you guessed it…fashion!  It’s been quite chilly here over the last week or so (okay, cold for us in Southern California).  I, personally, have to wear layers and layers to keep warm.  Unfortunately, for feet, it’s a different story.  You can’t always wear several layers of socks, which is where these come into play:

From Merryn, 2014.


These moccasins were a gift from my friend, Merryn, in Australia.  I cannot tell you what a godsend these are!  From soft and warm lining to the durable outer material and sole (so I can wear them outdoors), these are the best!  I have, literally, worn them every single day, all day (until bedtime, of course!).  Never again will I have to worry about my feet or toes freezing, especially when I head to the desert or mountains.  Find a pair to fit your winter needs, here.

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From Grandma, Christmas 2013.

Also, speaking of keeping out the cold, I have a new love for infinity scarves…well, the longer versions.  Last year for Christmas, Grandma gave me one, with a scarf hanger, because she didn’t know what get me.  This particular scarf is black, with several different neon (yellow, green, orange) threads through part of it.  It is really warm despite the holes (part of the design), and can be swirled around the neck multiple times to ensure that your neck stays nice and toasty.  I had a c-spine fusion last summer, so the cold really does a number to my neck resulting in bad headaches.  Even the wind doesn’t cut through the material.  You may be able to find the perfect one for you, or as a last-minute Christmas gift, here.   

How do you bundle up when the weather outside gets “frightful”?  Let me know in the comments.  Happy Holidays, from my family to yours!