Friday

Selfie for good-lash days like this one

(using L'Oreal Telescopic in Carbon Black)

At work, we got the opportunity to hear Bill Baxley and Doug Jones give one of the most moving presentations I've ever seen, highlighting their work in successfully prosecuting the perpetrators of the 16th St Baptist Church bombing in 1963. I am so grateful that the leaders at HealthSouth arranged for them to speak on their reflection of progress in our city. These men are true heroes, among many heroes in the Civil Rights era, and I am so glad we could to meet them. My heart is so full! Fifty Years Forward indeed.

(pictured right) the response letter from former Attorney General to a racist bafoon who criticized his work in Alabama.

Loving these colors.

Red/white striped 3/4 length t-shirt from Urban Outfitters

Olive green cargo vest from Old Navy

Gold bow ring from Madewell

Gold arrow necklace from World Market

Tiny (fake) diamond/gold midi ring from rue21

Ugh my phone wouldn't focus, but I just got this at Target, I've been using it all week. 

*Fingers crossed*

Smashbox Haul!

Being a makeup newbie, I decided to take a chance and get some high-end makeup samples (and use my hard-earned Birchbox points for a discount)

I got the Smashbox "Try It!" beauty kit with 

Photo-finish facial primer

Camera ready BB cream

and loose powder 

Plus, I got some free samples:

Benefit "They're Real!" mascara

How Do You Like Them Apples? lip and cheek tint in "Pie"

I also took a trip to Ulta last night with my mom, and she got me the 

green color-correcting Photo Finish Foundation Primer

(because she's the sweetest there ever was!)

Lip/cheek stain: Although the color is too pinky for a lip color, it is absolutely perfect for my cheeks.  It goes on so smooth and lasts all day.  Will probably continue to buy

Green primer: Liked it, although I did not see much of a difference from my e.l.f. green-tinted primer

Mascara: It worked, but I wasn't too amazed by it.  I will probably still use Telescopic by L'Oreal

Foundation kit: I didn't use the clear primer, because I already used the green, but I definitely loved the BB cream, and the loose powder went on flawlessly.  I will probably consider buying the Smashbox CC cream (it's a little cheaper than my Kate Sommerville CC cream) as well as the full-size loose powder, but I'll probably stick to cheaper brands for primer.

What's in My Beauty Bag?: Eyes

This week, I'll be sharing some products I use to keep my eyes lookin' bright.

I start off with this L'Oreal Lash Boosting Serum.   

I put it on under my mascara and before I go to sleep.

I use Preparation H anti-inflammatory to decrease puffiness

(although I have to clarify for house guests)

Then, I apply a yellow concealer underneath my eyes to combat my blue-purple dark circles.

Nex is my e.l.f Mineral Eyeshadow Primer

After that, I sometimes use this Tony Moly Panda's Dream dark eye corrector 

from Urban Outfitters

 After I put on my chocolate brown eyeshadow and Revlon liquid black liner, mentioned in a previous post, I also use cheap brown mascara for eyebrows for an extra pop. 
Then, I put white powder underneath and in the corner of my eyes for a little extra brightness.

Last is my favorite mascara EVER.  I've been using this stuff since I was fifteen and it's always made my lashes super duper long.  I’ve recommended it to many of my friends who absolutely love it. It’s honestly the best thing you’ll ever try.