Top Ten Tuesdays: Great SPFs for Summer and Year Round!

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For this edition of Top Ten Tuesdays, I am going to share some of the best Sunscreens that I have come across in the past 6 months. I am going to go ahead and tell you, this list actually contains 11 Sunscreens! As much as I wanted to keep it to just 10, there were 11 Sunscreens that I really wanted to talk about and share with you. I tried to pick out sunscreens across a few sunscreen categories: Sunscreens for Face, Spray Sunscreens, Tinted Sunscreens, Sunscreens for Kids, Waterproof Sunscreens, newly released Sunscreens, and even Sunscreen with Bug Repellent! 

I don't mess around when it comes to sun protection. Daily use of an SPF is a MUST for me. I have lost a dear friend to Melanoma and my Dad constantly battles Carcinomas. I have inherited my Father's fair skin, so I really need to be sure that I am protected in the Sun. Plus, I love being outdoors. I literally slather sunscreen on every morning on every body part that I know will be exposed to the sun. For days that I am going to be at the pool, I rely on waterproof Sunscreens. I am constantly switching up my sunscreen depending on what I am doing that day and what I need. This list focuses on my current rotation of Sunscreens and ones that I am really enjoying right now! :) 

Top Ten Tuesdays: My Sunscreen Arsenal
Here are some of my favorite, across a variety of Sunscreen categories, in my vast SPF Arsenal. You will see quite a variety here: from high end brands to drugstore favorites, spray sunscreens to classic lotions, and even face sunscreens and sunscreens for babies and kids! I like having a variety of formulas on hand depending on what I am doing and the type of protection that I need. 

• COOLA | Classic Face Sunscreen SPF 30: Non-greasy with sheer application and an awesome cucumber scent!

• Kate Somerville | Daily Deflector Moisturizer Anti-Aging Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 20: I adore Kate Somerville skincare and this facial sunscreen is fabulous. With the SPF of only 20, this is used as a daily moisturizer for days that I am not getting direct exposure. It does triple duty by providing anti-aging protection, while moisturizing, and fighting environmental damage. Plus, it has light-diffusing pigments to blur fine lines and perfect your skin. Yes, please! 

• RoC® | MULTI CORREXION® 5 In 1 Daily Moisturizer With Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30: This is an anti-aging facial moisturizer with sunscreen. It is one of my very favorite daily moisturizers with SPF! I come back to this one time and time again when I am in-between product testing for the blog. I love how this product feels on my skin. Plus, I am getting anti-aging benefits with the SPF!

• Neutrogena | Wet Skin Sunscreen SPF 50: When I am going to be at the beach or pool and know that I will primarily be in the water, I rely on a sunscreen made to work on wet skin! This spray is swim, humidity, and sweat resistant. This one is also great for reapplying on wet skin as it still applies full strength even if it is applied to wet skin. So, sometimes I might start off with a lotion sunscreen before leaving the house but use this for reapplication while at the pool. 

• Australian Gold | Sheer Coverage Continuous Spray SPF 15 Sunscreen: I love using this continuous spray SPF from Australian Gold. It has the signature Australian Gold scent which I have really grown to love! Plus, the spray is super easy to use and the product feels lightweight and non-sticky.

• Australian Gold | Lotion Sunscreen SPF 15 with Instant Bronzer: OMG! I love this stuff! First, it smells amazing and 2nd it provides a beautiful bronze glow on your skin. While I embrace being fair, I do especially love a bit of color to my legs. This product is perfect for that! It is my go-to "leg" sunscreen for Summer when my legs are bared in short skirts or shorts. 

• Hawaiian Tropic | Touch of Color Tinted Spray Lotion Sunscreen SPF 15: I have been a fan of Hawaiian Tropic since I was a kid. This new Touch of Color Tinted Spray Sunscreen is a great addition to the line! I love the classic scent and the ease of this spray. Plus, it does give a lovely touch of color! Another great product for your legs! :)

• Aveeno Baby | Natural Protection Lotion Sunscreen with SPF 50: Aveeno is my go-to brand for baby products! My son has eczema and super sensitive skin. So, I rely heavily on Aveeno baby products! I can apply this sunscreen on my baby boy and know that he will be protected and that it won't irritate his sensitive and fair skin. I also use this on my preschool-aged daughter. It is sweat and water resistant. 

• Avon | Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Plus Expedition Insect Repellent with SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray: What a genius idea! The bug repelling classic Avon Skin-So-Soft formula with an SPF of 30! A perfect combo! I love the outdoors in the Summer...but, unfortunately, the bugs love me, too. I am a mosquito magnet but I don't always want to be slathering on bug repellents with harmful DEET chemicals. So, I am super happy about this Avon Bug Guard Plus! It works amazingly well to keep the GA mosquitos away! I am hooked on this for sunny backyard playtime!

• Palmer's | Cocoa Butter Formula EVENTONE SUNCARE Moisturizing Sunscreen Balm: I have loved Palmer's Cocoa Butter lotions for years! So, I was excited to try out their new line of SPF products. They are all fantastic and I particularly love this Sunscreen Balm. It is such a unique texture for a sunscreen! It is like a body balm but has the added benefit of SPF! Not to mention, it smells amazing and leaves your skin luminous and hydrtated! 

• Osmosis | Shade Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer: This is one of my newest additions to my facial sunscreen collection of products. With Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide as the active ingredients, it is a winner for me (for some reason, that is a magical mix of SPFs for my skin). Plus, it contains fractionated coconut oil, which I am a fan of as well. I am exploring a few other products from Osmosis Skincare and must say that I am really becoming a fan of the line!

What sunscreens are you loving lately? Have you used any of these from my list? Be sure to check out the thumbnails from my fellow Top Ten Tuesdays bloggers below to find out what Sunscreens they are loving lately!


 

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The Beauty Spotlight Team: Weekend Links!

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How to Get Pretty Feet for Summer in Six Easy Steps from Lola's Secret Beauty Blog! Who doesn't love a giveaway?  

Beauty Info Zone absolutely adores them and always has one going on. This week enter our SWOON Lip Gloss Picker Up Artist international giveaway.  

Phyrra has an awesome Taylor Swift Bad Blood Makeup Tutorial to share with you! You'll love this look!

Summer has officially started and Sunny from Mostly Sunny has one last summer collection to show you! Check out Givenchy Croisière 2015.

That nail polish is a must-have! Who is your biggest BLOGGER ENABLER? Check out who Blushing Noir considers hers to be & peep some swatches of the Too Faced Sugar Pop Palette!  

Pammy Blogs Beauty loves her pink FOREO LUNA device. However, the Summer heat sifts her combo skin to the oily side. Does the blue FOREO LUNA work better for her now? Click through to her article to find out!  

Prime Beauty likes to use cream blushes in the summer heat. The new Smashbox L.A. Lights Blendable Cheek & Lip Colors impart an impressive West Coast Glow!

Find out whether The Feminine Files thinks you should SPLURGE or SAVE when it comes to foundation brushes. Kristina compares 2 great options!

Eye pads are all the rage, but Exuviance Intensive Eye Treatment Pads have the ingredients to really help fade fine lines and wrinkles.  

Never Say Die Beauty was first in line to try them out!  

15 Minute Beauty is sharing her favorite lippie splurge! It's her perfect pink lip color, and it works for everyone!

How can you get a Bronze Glow even if you are Perilously Pale?

Get ready for Summer with some of Geniabeme’s must have Summer Shoe picks!!

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My Home Spa: Relax and Pamper with the Aroma Wrap

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Turn Your Home into a Spa with Aroma Wrap:
Nothing beats some Home-Spa relaxation time to beat stress and re-charge! I love just love "spa nights" at home. A warm bath, a facial mask, a cup of tea, and now...the Aroma Wrap!

Introducing the Aroma Wrap:
The Aroma Wrap is a spa-quality heated aromatherapy neck wrap. Aroma Wrap is unique as it allows you to customize your aromatherapy experience by combining your favorite essential oils with the therapeutic benefits of the wrap. How does this work? You just put your favorite essential oil on a cotton round and insert into the wrap.You can choose either using it for moist heat or for cold therapy. This wrap is great if you are just wanting to relax and soothe your muscles with the theraputic heat or cold; but also, it can be used for injury relief or for body aches.

To find out more about the Aroma Wrap, please click "read more" below! :)

FOREO LUNA™ Cleansing and Anti-Aging Device: LUNA™ for Combination Skin

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 image source: FOREO LUNA

FOREO LUNA™ Cleansing and Anti-Aging Device: LUNA™ for Combination Skin:

I am a HUGE fan of the FOREO LUNA™! Actually, I have been using the FOREO LUNA™(the pink one for Sensitive/Normal skin) for almost two years now! Every time I am in-between testing out other skincare products, I always go back to my pink FOREO LUNA™. Be sure to check out my previous review of the FOREO LUNA™here! Across the board, I think that the FOREO LUNA™ is an amazing device. I honestly almost don't feel "clean" anymore when I wash without it. I seriously crave the soothing vibration and deep, yet gentle, clean that it gives. Not to mention, I have honestly only charged that device once in 2 years. I am amazed at how it keeps a charge, like, forever! 

So, when the FOREO LUNA™ became available through iFabbo, I jumped at a chance to review the FOREO LUNA™ again. Why? Because I feel that my skin has really changed type in the past few years since having 2 babies. My skin is much more oily now from all of the hormonal changes my body has gone through. My skin currently is on the oily side of Combination Skin and I have been wondering if a different FOREO LUNA™ device might meet the needs of my skin better?

For this review, I tried out the FOREO LUNA™ Cleansing and Anti-Aging Device for Combination Skin (the blue one). To find out the differences between the pink and blue FOREO LUNA™ devices and how I specifically like the FOREO LUNA™ Cleansing and Anti-Aging Device for Combination Skin, please click "read more" below!

My Daily Self-Care Routine: Staying Fresh and Clean All Day: Plus Sweepstakes!

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With the warm weather of summer upon us, having a stay-fresh beauty routine is a must! I must admit, I really do want to stay fresh and feel clean throughout the day and I take steps to achieve this little daily goal for myself. So, I am super excited to be partnering with Monistat®, a brand that I have used and trusted for years, to share my daily self-care routine for staying and feeling fresh all day! When I feel fresh and clean, I feel more confident and better about myself overall. It is that simple and so easy to take a few extra steps during the day to feel fresh and boost my confidence and mood.

My stay-fresh, self-care routine is not just about getting clean in the morning! It is about getting clean and staying fresh throughout the whole day!

I am a busy Mom-on-the-go. I don't have a ton of time to get ready in the morning and I certainly do not want to be fussing with a complicated routine throughout the day to stay fresh. With that said, I certainly do not want to end up being stinky either! My activities keep me on the move, from neighborhood walks, to play dates, park time, back yard fun, mall trips, and swim lessons, this list just goes on. I am certainly active and often sweating in this GA heat as I keep up with my 1-year old and 3-year old! So, my stay-fresh routine focuses on starting out my day clean and maintaining that feeling throughout the day.

My Self-Care Stay-Fresh Routine:

Morning Shower: No matter what, I have a shower in the morning. Quite simply: It wakes me up and gets me clean. I don't always wash my hair, but I always shower. So, on non-hair-wash days, my hair goes up and under a shower cap while I wash my body. While in the shower I start with washing my hair if it is a hair wash day. That way my conditioner can sit on my hair for as long as I shower to keep my hair in shape. Then I proceed to use bar soap to wash all over. Next, I rinse the conditioner from my hair. Then I shave my legs. Next, I wash my face. Last of all, I use a body pouf and scented shower gel to give my body one last wash (this also removes any conditioner residue from my body).

Post-Shower Essentials:
After drying off, I apply a few products to keep my body smelling great and feeling fresh. I apply lotion all over and lotion with SPF to arms, legs, and exposed areas for sun protection. Sometimes I add a bit of powder if I am feeling like it is a super hot day and that I need extra freshness. Next, I spray a fragrance to wrists, neck, and torso. Oh, and of course, we can't forget antiperspirant/deodorant! That is certainly an essential! After getting dressed, I often spray a fragrance mist/body splash all over to layer scent.

Freshness On-The-Go and Throughout the Day: 
My freshness routine does not end in the morning or in the bathroom at home! I always carry a small bottle of fragrance mist/body splash with me for freshening up throughout the day. Also, items like anti-bacterial hand gel (for my hands) and baby wipes (to use anywhere) can certainly keep you clean on-the-go. I keep my makeup looking and feeling fresh during the day by blotting with blotting papers. The slim packs of blotting papers are super easy to toss into your purse and carry with you. If I am swimming or exercising, I always carry antiperspirant/deodorant with me, too! I tend to like the spray kind for on-the-go. Also, if swimming, I like to apply a scented body lotion too after drying off and getting re-dressed (chlorine is so drying!).

End of Day:
My evening freshness routine depends on how fresh I stayed throughout the day. If it was a day of exercise, gardening, or swimming, an evening shower or bath is a must (even if it is a "quick rinse" just to get me clean). On other days, that I have maintained my freshness well, I just wash my face in the evenings. What can I say, I really do like climbing into bed for the evening feeling clean and fresh!

 

 

Looking to add to your daily self-care routine? Monistat® has some great options like their new
Stay Fresh Gel from the new Monistat® Complete Care™ line.

About the Monistat® Complete Care™ line: 

Monistat® now offers products beyond yeast infection treatment with the Complete Care™ line. If you experience feminine odor, don’t worry you are not alone. 1 in 3 women experience occasional vaginal odor. Monistat™ Stay Fresh Gel helps eliminate feminine odor to restore feminine freshness for 3 days, unlike some other feminine odor products. Also, it helps maintain vaginal pH. Plus, it is fragrance-free and paraben-free.

Get Your Coupon!
Ready to try Stay Fresh Gel from Monistat® Complete Care™? Get your coupon here!

Sweepstakes:
Monistat® wants to help you take control of your feminine health. Tell us about the way in which you take control and care of your body for a chance to win a $100 VISA gift card plus a full size sample of Stay Fresh Gel from Monistat® Complete Care™.” Each comment will automatically be entered for a chance to win. (Please include your email address so that BlogHer can contact you if you win). Here are the official rules. 

 

I have received product from Monistat® and was compensated to write this review.

 

Entry Instructions:

No duplicate comments.

You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:

1. Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post

2. Tweet (public message) about this promotion; including exactly the following unique term in your tweet message: “#SweepstakesEntry”; and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post

3. Blog about this promotion, including a disclosure that you are receiving a sweepstakes entry in exchange for writing the blog post, and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post

4. Read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older (or nineteen (19) years of age or older in Alabama and Nebraska). Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. The notification email will come directly from BlogHer via the sweeps@blogher email address. You will have 2 business days to respond; otherwise a new winner will be selected. If your comment relates to or describes any product or your experience with the product, do not describe or recommend any use of the product that is not recommended on the product’s packaging or labeling, such comments will be deleted.

The Official Rules are available here.

This sweepstakes runs from 6/22/2015 – 7/22/2015

Be sure to visit the Monistat® brand page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ posts!

 

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The Beauty Spotlight Team: What is in Phyrra's Purse?

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Phyrra shares the mysteries of her summer handbag. Find out her essentials and favorites!

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Deal Alert: Atlanta’s Oka-B Shoes Hosts 2nd Annual Summer Warehouse Shoe Sale!!!

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Atlanta’s Oka-B Shoes Hosts 2nd Annual Summer Warehouse Shoe Sale!!!

Hey fellow Atlanta-area readers: you are going to want to check out this awesome sale! Oka-B Shoes, my go-to brand for flip flops and cute jelly flats, is having a Warehouse sale. The prices are unbelieveable: All Shoes - $5 - $7 a pair! The sale is this Friday, June 19 from 10:00 am -4:00 pm. 

More Sale Details:

• All Shoes - $5 - $7 a pair ($5 a pair flip flops and $7 a pair adorned styles)! These styles are normally anywhere from $25 - $40 a pair, so a great deal!
• WHEN: This Friday, June 19: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• WHERE: Okabashi Shoes: 4823 Roy Carlson Boulevard, Buford, GA 30518
• For more information about Oka-b, visit their website.

I love the Oka-B's that are already in my shoe collection and certainly want to go and scope out some new pairs! What really stands out to me with Oka-b shoes is the wear. My assortment of Oka-b flip flops (I honestly wear a pair almost every day) never seems to wear out. The shoes hold up unbelievably well. Such great quality and made right here in Buford, GA! 

About Oka-B: 

All Oka-B shoes are waterproof, non-slip, dishwasher safe and made in the USA. Oka-B offers customers an endless palette of shoe colors and styles, adorned with natural seashell, gemstones, and ribbon. 

Oka-B is founded on the principle that fashion and comfort should never be mutually exclusive. Each season Oka-B designers adapt runway trends to introduce new designs to the Oka-B collection. From summer brights to subdued fall tones, bridal collections to the casual weekend flop, there's an Oka-B sandal for every look and for every occasion.  With sophisticated lines and innovative construction, Oka-B shoes are inspired by the latest runway looks yet designed to feel like a foot massage with every step!

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Father's Day Gift Guide: Grooming and Fragrance Gifts for Dad!

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What to get a Man on Father's Day?

This is a good question! As a beauty blogger, there is certainly no shortage of products in our home. However, even as much as my husband ends up using my face washes, shower gels, etc...he really does love to use his own products that are formulated for a Man. Plus, he loves to wear cologne. So, Father's Day gifts of Fragrance or Personal Care/Grooming Products are always loved by my man! 

To find out more about each of these Father's Day Gift Ideas, please click "read more" below! :)

Top Ten Tuesdays: Summer Essentials

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It is Summertime! Summer is all about outdoor time. From pool-time, to outdoor play, to trips to the beach, my beauty products need to stand up to the heat and the sun. Plus, I like to include more products in my day that help me to feel and smell fresh. 

This edition of Top Ten Tuesdays includes some new products that I think are destined to be Summertime Essentials! Check out these items that work great for you when you are in the heat of Summer. No matter if you are traveling or staying at home this Summer, these goodies can really perk you up! :)

Summer Essentials:

• Burt's Bees | Facial Cleansing Towelettes in Cucumber & Sage and Exfoliating Facial Cleansing Towelettes in Peach & Willow Bark: The Cucumber & Sage Cleansing Towelettes are so refreshing and cooling for Summer! These are so quick and easy to use. Plus, they smell amazing! The Peach & Willow Bark towelettes give a gentle boost of exfoliation as they are infused with Willow Bark which is a natural source of Salicylic Acid.

• bodycology | Whoopsie Daisy Moisturizing Body Cream and Moisturizing Body Wash: Bodycology body products are such a great deal: body washes, body moisturizers, and fragrance mists in such fun scents. Their new Whoopsie Daisy is a fresh new scent for Summer! Plus, the packaging is so cute! I just love Daisies! They are one of my favorite flowers :)

• John Frieda Beach Blonde | Sea Waves Sea Salt Spray: A sea salt spray is the quintessential Summer must-have! It helps to bring out your hair's natural wave. Get the sexy beachy hair look by misting product in and scrunching your hair to encourage the waves. Plus, it smells amazing! Stay tuned for a beach wave tutorial coming soon!!! :)

• Nois Shield | Leave-In Conditioner SPF 15: Get color protection, extra moisture, and sunscreen from this leave-in spray! With my super fair skin, I have had my share of scalp sunburns. I love that this product protects my hair while also providing the much-needed SPF for my scalp. I used to have to put sunscreen on my part and it would gunk up my hair. Now I just use this in my hair and concentrate it on my part area if I am going to the pool or will be outside for an extended time.

• Swim Spray: Did you know that Vit C breaks down chlorine? This spray neutralizes chlorine on your body and in your hair. Simply squirt this on after swimming and you will remove that chlorine odor and feel. It works great and is natural!

• Sun Bum | Lip Balm SPF 30: OMG! I am completely obcessed with Sun Bum lip balms! Their scent/taste is the epitome of Summer to me. I especially love the Coconut flavor. I like that these are not overly waxy. They smooth into your lips almost like an oil. My lips are so hydrated and protected from wearing these. Great for the pool and the beach!

• Sarah Potempa | Mini Touch Up Iron: Sometimes the best way to fight frizz is to smooth it out with a flat iron. I find that the humidity of Summer has the ability to ruin my seemingly straight hair in minutes: it turns into a frizzy mess! This little flat iron can come right to the rescue for your Summer frizzies. It is small enough to fit in your purse for emergencies while you are out or at work. Also, its small size makes it perfect for packing for Summer trips!

• Sarah Potempa | Wrap Up: With a daughter in ballet, I love bun hacks! ;) Seriously, another great way to fight Summer frizzies and unruly hair is to just throw it all up in a bun! My very long hair is often just too hot to wear down in the heat of the Summer. So, I am always looking for great solutions for up dos! It has a flexible wire on the inside and a foam outer cushion. Just stick your hair through and "wrap it up"! I have it in brown (I really do need it in blonde for my hair color but the brown works for my daughter).

• Conair | Wide-Tooth Comb: A wide-tooth comb is a must have for any girl with long-hair at the pool or on the beach! I keep this Conair Wide-Tooth comb in my pool bag for pool-side hair needs. Let the sun work for you by combing a conditioner through your hair as you sit outside. Then just twist up into a braid or a bun. The heat will help the conditioner to penetrate and condition your hair!

• RUSK | Anti-Frizz Spray: This humidity-resistant working spray can help your style to resist the heat and humidity of Summer. Plus, this little travel size is great for on-the-go and Summer travel! What is even better? It has ingredients to protect your color!

What are your Summer Essentials? Be sure to check out the thumbnails below to see what my fellow Top Ten Tuesdays bloggers are loving for Summer! 

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Nautica For Father's Day: Honoring an Anchor in my Life

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 All opinions are mine alone.
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Nautica for Father's Day: Honoring an Anchor in my Life:

There is no question that my Dad is a strong person. In many ways he does act as an Anchor in my life. He is a spiritual anchor as well as a symbol of perseverance and a great mentor and teacher. My Dad has faced seemingly insurmountable odds. Yet, he is a survivor and he continues to endure despite the difficulties that life has handed him. Not to mention that at his side stands my Mom. To say she is an amazing woman is an understatement. She has stuck by his side throughout all of his hardships and continues to support and care for him to this day. 

When Nautica approached me with this topic, I gladly decided to share a little bit about why my Dad is such an anchor and an inspiration in my life. As anyone's parents face difficulties, it can be so scary. I wanted to share that despite his health issues and how scary some of the situations have been, going through this can really bring out your own strength and character. His story inspires me and I hope it inspires you, too. Plus, pampering my Dad with a Nautica Gift Set would be a great way to honor him this Father's Day!

My Dad: Overcoming Medical Challenges While Remaining Determined and Strong:

The Cancer:

My Dad was always a strong, healthy, and energetic person. However, he has faced some really major medical issues that have completely changed the direction of his life. His first major challenge: Lung Cancer. He was lucky. It was discovered as a mass on an X-ray during an annual physical. They caught it early and treated it surgically and aggressively. He had surgery which removed an entire lobe of his lung. They were able to get everything and eliminated the cancer. His only side effect of that surgery was a bit of a lingering raspy cough. Yes, he was a former smoker (pipe tobacco). However, he had quit many, many years before the cancer. He weathered this hiccup in life easily. You honestly would never even know that he had cancer or had a lobe removed.

The Stroke:
When my Father turned 60, he had a massive stroke. Chronic high blood pressure had cumulated with a massive bleed. Practically his entire cerebellum was wiped out. When I arrived to the hospital, the Dr. told my mother and I that there was nothing that they could do. We even said our goodbyes. That was when a miracle happened. A surgeon arrived that wanted to operate on my Dad. He had very low odds going into the surgery (less than 1% survival for the surgery itself). Well, I am happy to report that not only did he survive the surgery but he ended up regaining a lot of function eventually. Yes, my Dad does have some significant impairments from the stroke. He was in a coma for a while after the surgery and eventually got stronger and was moved to a rehab unit. He slowly started remembering who he was and ultimately learned how to walk again. He even still has his dry sense of humor and his love of politics (and lecturing me on politics, like he always loved to do). It was a long recovery and a very difficult journey for him and my family. More than anything, I am very product of him and proud of my Mom for all of the hard work they had to go through to get my Dad to where he is today, function-wise. The stroke caused an early retirement, physical impairments, visual impairment, and more...but, it did not dampen his determination nor did it undermine his strong Faith.

He has inspired me in other ways, too. I attribute my love of the outdoors to my Father. Some of my very best childhood memories are of following him around in his vast garden, weekend camping trips with him and my brother, and fishing! My love of the outside is something that I will always have and a great gift from my Dad! 

My Dad sure did have his share of medical hurdles to overcome. How did he get through all of this? His strong determination and his Faith. My Dad has always been strong willed. When I was a teenager and generally when I was younger, my Dad and I didn't always see eye-to-eye or agree on things. We sure have had our disagreements. However, it is exactly this strong will that has gotten him through these tough situations. The hallmark of his determination is his Faith and Trust in the Lord. I want to share his story not to scare you about what could happen to your own Dad, but to share that even if your parent goes through these scary medical situations, they can still come out a survivor! Their role may change in your life but they can still teach you! My Dad has taught me, through his perseverance facing these terrible odds, that you can still have Faith and get through your day. Our life here on Earth is temporary in comparison to our eternal life in Heaven.

Nautica Voyage Gift Set:
Shopping for the Nautica Voyage Gift Set:
The Nautica Voyage Gift Set was easy to shop for. During a routine trip to the Mall with my Mom and kids, we stopped into Macy's to pick up this gift set for Dad. What a great deal! It is a $128.00 for only $65.00. The gift set was located in the Men's Department of Macy's in the Fragrance section of the department. There was a large counter area with tall narrow shelf structures in front. The gift set was featured on top of one of the shelf structures. You can also purchase this gift set online here.

About Nautica Voyage:
Nautica Voyage is for the everyday hero and the man who challenges himself beyond his boundaries. This is certainly my Dad! The fragrance itself is fresh, cool, and acquatic. Notes include: top notes of green leaf and crisp apple, a heart of water lotus and drenched mimosa, and a base of musk and woody amber. The Nautica Voyage Gift Set includes: 3.4 oz Eau de Toilette, 2/5 oz Aftershave Balm, 2.5 oz Shower Gel, and 1 oz Eau de Toilette.

I've shared some memories about my father and how he has overcome challenges. Who is the anchor in your life?

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Nautica Giveaway!

• 1 Grand Prize Winner will win a $4,000 Cruise Vacation Package
• 5 Second Place Winners will win a Nautica Men's Fragrance Gift Package
• Winners must be 18+

Enter Here:
Nautica for Dad
 
Thanks for reading! XOXO

Summertime with LUSH: Fresh and Fun Products!

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It is time to share some LUSH love! As ya'll know, I am quite a bit of a LUSHie. I absolutely can not resist the LUSH store at the Mall nor the fabulous LUSH products! Many of the LUSH products that I have tried have become staples in my beauty routine. Not to mention, when it is time for a bath, LUSH is my go-to brand for fun bath bombs and a great spa-like bath experience! :) Not to mention, I love that the products are fresh and hand made! 

There are a couple LUSH product that I have tried recently that really stand out as fun and fresh products for Summertime: LUSH's Lemony Flutter Cuticle Butter and LUSH's D'Fluff Strawberry Shaving Soap.

LUSH Lemony Flutter Cuticle Butter:
I have used this amazing lemony cuticle butter off-and-on for a couple years now. Nothing transforms my dry and sometimes cracked (ewh!) cuticles better than this product! I use nail strengtheners frequently which are super drying to the cuticle area. I do my nails more in this Summer (because of the need for fresh pedicures!). So, my nails and cuticles tend to get their driest ever from the nail strengtheners (and of course the frequent hand washing with diaper changes with my toddler). Lemony Flutter combats nail dryness beautifully! Plus, OMG, the scent is amazing! I literally smell this every single time I open the jar. The naturally fresh lemon scent is so enticing! The product is full of super rich emollients to moisturize your skin...plus, the lemon has natural exfoliating properties that can work on those tough cuticles. I use by dabbing a small bit into each cuticle and massaging it in. It is my nightly ritual to apply this butter. I also dab a bit onto other dry parts of my hands and sometimes even my elbows, too. Love, love, love this stuff!

D'Fluff A Strawberry Shaving Soap:
One of my all-time favorite Summer scents is Strawberry. I rotate most of my bath and body products seasonally according to scent (and formula: extra moisture in Winter, etc). My shower is currently filled with and assortment of citrus, coconut, and yes even Strawberry body washes, scrubs, and this amazing D'Fluff Strawberry Shaving Soap from LUSH! As someone who shaves her leges every single day (ugh, I know...Dermatologist's orders for me to do it every day to avoid ingrown hairs, which I am prone to), I sure do appreciate a luxury shave product like D'Fluff. I love the sweetness and the fluffy texture of this product. Plus, it is so moisturizing!

Do you have any new daily staple products in your Summer beauty/bath and shower routine? Also, what are you loving lately from LUSH? I would love to continue to explore this brand further and love to hear recommendations! :)

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The Beauty Spotlight Team: Weekend Links!

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This is a special edition of the Beauty Spotlight Team because we've grown to new proportions. The active group of Beauty Info Zone, Prime Beauty, 15 Minute Beauty, Mostly Sunny, Phyrra, Perilously Pale, Pammy Blogs Beauty and Lola's Secret Beauty Blog has doubled in size. We're welcoming Angie from Hairspray and Highheels, Allison from Never Say Die Beauty, Justina from Justina's Gems, Brooke from Blushing Noir, Eugenia from Geniabeme, Kristina from The Feminine Files and Lisa from Cosmetic Sanctuary into the fold. We're so excited to be able to share more beauties with you and hope you'll follow us all. Now let's read about all the wonderful beauty products that we love.

Not only is Tom Ford Cream and Powder Eye Color in Midnight Sea absolutely stunning, but surprisingly it is still available! Lola's Secret Beauty Blog is absolutely obsessed with this gorgeous duo, and you'll see why!

It's getting hot here in New Jersey so here are the best Frizz Fighters to get you through summer frizz free! Hairspray and Highheels is a fan of each and every one, and you'll see why!

Pammy Blogs Beauty wants to help you get your Mani/Pedi Beach Ready! Be sure to check out her review of the latest from pop-arazzi and Beauty 360 and enter her GIVEAWAY!

There are so many new and innovative skincare products out and Kiehl's Iris Extract Activating Treatment Essence is one of them. Justina's Gems is loving this addition to her skincare regimen this summer!

Beige is hardly Sunny’s favorite color, but she’d take Chanel Les Beiges any day! Check out the pretty pieces from Chanel Les Beiges 2015 on Mostly Sunny!

If you usually pass on lipgloss because the stickiness is a turn-off, find out why Never Say Die Beauty who always preferred lipstick is now rockin’ the 3 gorgeous new Mirabella Colour Luxe Lip Gloss for Summer 2015!

Have you tried beauty oils yet? Cindy over at Prime Beauty found two budget friendly beauty oilswith powerful skincare ingredients and they come in a convenient rollerball!

Summer beauty is not the same as winter beauty so Marcia from Beauty Info Zone has to change her products. See some of her favorite summer beauty survival items.

Kristina from The Feminine Files did a pretty makeup look using the new Too Faced Born This Way Foundation and Melted Metal Lipstick in Peony!

Do you suffer from redness and hate piling on makeup? Phyrra shows you How to Cover Redness from Rosacea without wearing a ton of makeup!

At first glance the Dior Ambre Nuit 5-Couleurs just looks like your every day neutral palette. Blushing Noir demonstrates that this palette is SO MUCH MORE! Splurge. Buy. Now.

What is the perfect way to celebrate summer? With fun, bright, cheerful colours on your nails and toes of course! Perilously Pale shows us why the OPI Brights Collection has the perfect summer shades.

Kat Von D Eye Contour Palette has been a go to everyday for Geniabeme! The colors are perfect for an everyday look or a night time look. Take a look at this palette in action!  

15 Minute Beauty finally splurged on something that she's had her eye one for a while, and it is amazing! Go and check out her newest perfect complexion obsession!

Summer is here and Mentality Nail Polish has my nails covered! Cosmetic Sanctuary is thrilled with this collection!

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Great Idea! Pür Minerals – the Double Ego Dual Ended Eyeliner

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Now this is a great idea ya'll! A liner that is part pencil and part liquid: a dual-ended 2-in-1 liner. Introducing the Double Ego Dual Ended Eyeliner from Pür Minerals.

I know that I am frequently reaching for both a liquid and pencil style liner for lining both my upper and lower lash line. Typically, I like liquids and gels on my top lash line and pencils on the bottom. Now I can get both in one liner with coordinating/matching shades! You can get all this in one product, yay! I am such a fan of 2-in-1 products and think that this is such a great idea! :)

Give your eyes a bold, daring look this spring with the latest launch from Pür Minerals – the Double Ego Dual Ended Eyeliner. Two of Pür Minerals’ most popular formulas combined to this 2-in-1 dual-ended eyeliner. A dry mineral tip offers definition for everyday eyes or a smokey look, while the liquid liner glides on with ease for bold, intense color. 

The Pür Minerals Double Ego Dual Ended Eyeliner is available in the following shades: Bali, Queensland, Bora Bora, Rio de Janeiro, Milan, Tasmania, Madagascar, Swiss Alps.

I tried out 3 shades: Bora Bora (a medium and slightly teal blue), Swiss Alps (a soft grey), and Tasmania (a chocolate brown). In addition to liking the 2-in-1 idea, I also like the color selection, staying power, and smooth application of the liners. The liquid side features a super fine point felt tip pen that can make such an effortless line. The pencil side features a twist-up/retractable pencil tip. It also glides on easily without tugging and smudges out beautifully.

The Skinny:

• Price: $21
• Available: PurMinerals.com, ULTA Beauty stores  

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Max Studio’s Summer Sale: Date Night Outfit Ideas and Virtual Haul!

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Shop Max Studio

Max Studio Summer Sale:

The Max Studio's Summer Sale is happening now with savings up to 50% off this Summer's hottest styles! (Sale begins today, June 11th).  

Romance Season Shopping:

Yes, Summer certainly is the season for Weddings...but, it is not just Wedding Season! Every girl deserves a bit of romance and some pretty outfits to fit her mood! I do tend to dress with a bit more of a romantic flare in Summers. Gone are the heavy fabrics of Winter, I want sundresses, light flowly fabrics, beautiful prints, and inspiring color. I want to look effortless. Yet, I also want to look put together, beautiful, and feminine.

Max Studio is a great place to look for your fun and flirty Romance Season shopping! An inspired mash up of tradition and modernity has made the Leon Max Collection a go-to brand for It girls such as Zooey Deschannel, January Jones, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Olivia Wilde. Beading, Embroidery, and original prints add sparkle to subtlety on designs that effortlessly translate from office sophistication to evening playfulness.

Date Night Outfit Ideas and My Max Studio Virtual Haul:

This awesome Max Studio sale inspired me to create an idea board for a date night! Date night is my biggest excuse to get dressed up! I am drawn to the Max Studio line because of the combination of clean lines and feminine sensibility. I like the fusion of sophistication with flirtatiousness and even a laid back vibe. The constantly evolving Leon Max Max Studio collections, designed across three studios in Los Angeles, London, and New York, keeps fans on their toes and their wardrobes complete with the flirty tops, romantic dresses, maxi dresses, pants, outerwear, footwear, and more.

• Printed Silk Devore Slip Dress: Was $398, now $138
• Novella-Leather Scooped Wedge Sandals: Was $228, now $158.00
• Vanessa-Tortoisre ZYL Drop Lens Sunglasses: Was $90.00, now $48.00
• Cara-Colourblocked ZYL Sunglasses: Was $180, now $88.00
• Striped Linen Jersey Skirt: Was $68.00, now $38.00.
• One Shoulder Jersey Top: Was $128.00, now $48.00.
• Nadia-Wedge Sandals: Was $198.00, now $68.00.

So, those are my date night outfit ideas and inspirations from Max Studio! Don't miss out on this awesome Summer Sale! No code necessary, prices reflect discount.

Be sure to follow Max Studio on Social Media:

Facebook

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#maxstudio

#leonmax

#fashionismaxstudio

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Summer Style Diary with Jockey Skimmies®: #SavedBySkimmies Sweepstakes for $100 Gift Card!

 

My Summer Style: #SavedBySkimmies

Welcome to my Summer Style Diary with Jockey® Skimmies® Slipshort!

 

When it comes to Fashion, the spring and summer are my favorite times of the year. I just love the flowy skirts and dresses, bare legs and arms, and a more casual vibe. During summer, the weather in Georgia goes from pleasantly warm to very hot! What can I say, I always want to look cute but also I don't want to sacrifice comfort. I want to wear bare styles like shorter or sheerer skirts while still keeping modesty in tact with good coverage where I need it. This is where my Skimmies come into play! 

 

THE SOLUTIONARY
Jockey has created an illustrated dictionary of style solutions dubbed The Solutionary. With hilarious definitions to common style blunders, The Solutionary shares daily solves made possible by Skimmies.

• Friction Affliction: A bow-legged stride that aims to keep a dreaded thigh fire from ruining your day.
• Namaste-dry: For when the hard work pays off but sweating it isn't your style. 

• ShakeDown: A classic move combines one part wiggle and two parts tug, brought about by all over static cling.
• FlashCycle: Trying to keep covered when an unexpected breeze picks up.

My Summer Style:

My summer Style is super casual. I am a stay-at-home mom of a rambunctious 16 month old toddler and an active and playful 3 1/3 year old preschooler. Our weeks are full of playtime at home, backyard fun, playdates with friends, lunches with Grandma, family dinner outings, ballet lessons, church activities, swim lessons, park time, shopping trips, and trips to the mall. I want my outfits to be cute and comfortable. We go from activity to activity, so I need my wardrobe to be comfortable; yet, it must be functional and attractive, too. I want to be a cute mom, lol! 

 

As you can imagine with two little ones, I am constantly bending and reaching and spending time on the floor. If I am wearing a skirt or a dress, I absolutely must have good and comfortable coverage for my bum! Jockey Skimmies are such a lifesaver with my skirts and dresses! I can bend and reach without having to tug or straighten my clothes or worry about lack of coverage in any way. Plus, the Jockey Skimmies are absolutely invisible under my clothes! My Skimmies have absolutely saved me from certain moments of embarrassment while running around after my active kids!

 

Just take a peek at my summer style! Skimmies not only save my busy-mom summer fashion dilemmas, but also give me the confidence to rock a great summer look! From eliminating FlashCycle to to preventing Friction Afflcition, my Jockey Skimmies® slipshorts were the solution! Here are some of my favorite summer outfits that are made complete with my Skimmies! I included both an "everyday" outfit as well as a date-night look.

What exactly are Jockey Skimmies? Let me tell you! :)  Skimmies are super lightweight slipshorts that are fabulous multi-taskers: they give you coverage, keep panty lines to a minimum, and offer great anti-static defense for your flowy skirts and dresses. Skimmies are a wardrobe essential for every modern woman! Plus, great news for the hot summer weather, Skimmies are comfortable and cool to wear, even in the hot weather of the South!

 

What Jockey Skimmies slipshorts are right for you? 

Here are the 3 kinds of Jockey Skimmies® slipshorts available:

• Original Skimmies® : Smooths like a slip, covers like shorts. Offers a smooth, polished look under fitted-to-flowing skirts and dresses. Our original design, available in short and regular lengths.
Silky-smooth microfiber stretch fabric for smoothing coverage without restriction.

• Anti-static Skimmies®: Resists static and allows clothes to glide. Wear under pants or other cotton fashions and say good-bye to cling. Wide, flat leg hem for a stay-put fit. Targeted stretch zones flatter your natural curves.

• Wicking Skimmies®: Breathable mesh panels keep you comfortable and dry all day. Perfect for working out. Moisture-wicking, quick dry fabric helps prevent chafing.

Jockey Skimmies® retail for $20-$22

 

Sweepstakes:  

Enter to Win a $100 Gift Card!

 

How would you like to be #SavedBySkimmies? Tell me in the comments for a chance to win a $100 Jockey.com gift card.

 

Entry Instructions: 

No duplicate comments.

You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:

1. Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post

2. Tweet (public message) about this promotion; including exactly the following unique term in your tweet message: “#SweepstakesEntry”; and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post

3. Blog about this promotion, including a disclosure that you are receiving a sweepstakes entry in exchange for writing the blog post, and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post

4. For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older (or nineteen (19) years of age or older in Alabama and Nebraska). Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. The notification email will come directly from BlogHer via the sweeps@blogher email address. You will have 2 business days to respond; otherwise a new winner will be selected.

The Official Rules are available here.

This sweepstakes runs from 6/10/2015 – 7/31/2015

Be sure to visit Jockey’s brand page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ posts!

 

June Contest at Free Beauty Events!

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Free Beauty Events has posted their June Contest/Giveaway!

Monthly Beauty Basket Giveaway:

The June Beauty Basket Giveaway at Free Beauty Events includes products from Hawaiian Tropic, Simple, Essie, CoverGirl, Beyonce Fragrances and more! The Contest runs from now through 6/30/15, winners will be chosen on 7/5/2015 and notified by 7/15/2015.

Free Beauty Events wants to encourage readers to go to their Facebook page and like them (an extra entry!), then enter to win on their website (Free Beauty Events). On the Free Beauty Events site you can enter your zip code to find free beauty events in your area. Have fun checking out what fun beauty-related events are near you!

Good Luck if you enter the contest! The prize looks great this month! :) 

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Today on QVC: The "It's All About You" Collection from IT Cosmetics: Box Opening!

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Today on QVC: The "It's All About You" Collection from IT Cosmetics

What exciting news! IT Cosmetics is on QVC today with this awesome TSV deal: Introducing the "It's All About You" Collection! :) 

Within this limited-edition, one-time-only set are two new launches – IT Cosmetics' Naturally Pretty Face Palette and Celebration Foundation SPF50 – and the top-selling Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer and Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection Brush. The worldwide launch of this set will only be available for 24 hours, starting at 12:01 AM today Monday, June 8th at an incredible deal.

Box Opening:
I am going to feature this collection in a box-opening type format! :) Since I just got my hands on the collection and it is a quick turn around for the sale, I am just opening the box and giving you some first impressions! Plus, I am going to share product details as well.

Lets Open the Box:
What is inside?

• NEW! Naturally Pretty Face Palette: Experience your most beautiful you with this palette of must-haves! Together, these customer favorites help perfect, illuminate, revitalize, and warm the appearance of your complexion for your most beautiful-looking skin. The palette includes Hello Light Creme, Vitality Matte Bronzer, and Bye Bye Pores Pressed Powder, and the worldwide launch of Bye Bye Pores Pressed Blush. Wow! What a gorgeous palette! This palette, alone, makes this QVC deal awesome! Now, while this is a new palette to me, I do think that I have tried some of the products already from IT Cosmetics in other palettes/collections. The Bye Bye Pores Pressed Powder and the Bye Bye Pores Pressed Blush are both new to me! I do love the idea of a pressed powder as part of a face palette. Usually, just color cosmetics are included. So, this is nice and different! The Bye Bye Pores Pressed Blush is in such a beautiful and universally flattering shade. So pretty! I already know that I love the Hello Light Creme! An excellent palette for sure. 

• Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer: This full coverage, anti-aging concealer helps to visually camouflage the appearance of imperfections with long-lasting pigments that never crease, never crack, and give you the appearance of your most flawless-looking skin. I am so excited to see the Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer in this collection...because...it is one of my top "holy grail" makeup products! Yes, Bye Bye Under Eye is one of my most reached for concealers for the under eye area. I have very very dark under eye circles and this heavy coverage concealer magically conceals them and manages to not look overly thick nor heavy. It is an amazing concealer!!! A must-have from IT Cosmetics!!!

• NEW Celebration Foundation SPF 50: It's your 30 seconds to flawless-looking skin, now with physical-only UVA/UVB broad spectrum SPF 50! This full-coverage foundation is formulated to help visually blur the appearance of imperfections. I am such a fan of IT Cosmetics foundations. There is no question that their foundations are one of the biggest strengths of the whole line. I love that this one has an SPF of 50+: perfect for Summertime! :)

• Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection Brush: It's your brush therapy! This dual-ended, ultra-plush concealer and foundation brush is designed to do the work for you with a large brush head for an airbrushed finish and a small brush head for precision and seamless application for hard-to-reach areas.  IT Cosmetics brushes are just like the name states...heavenly! This brush is so soft and luxurious. This will be amazing for blush, powder, foundation, and concealer application!

What an amazing assortment of products. Not to mention, what a great value!!! If you are curious about this brand, or an IT Cosmetics fan, now is the time to buy since you will save so much money. If you are curious about this collection, don't delay, this sale is for today only. Plus, I know they always sell out fast! :)

XOXO!

Find the IT Cosmetics "It's All About You Collection" Here:
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#ITCosmetics #ItGirl #QVCBeauty #ITsAllAboutYou
 

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