As the year comes to end, the Splendicity community has gathered up it's best posts from the year. Take a look at what you might have missed over the year. Be sure to check out all of the members posts to get to know some of the best beauty, fashion, style, and shopping blogs on the web.

BEAUTY
Viva Woman finds out how to read the secret batch codes of beauty products and determine their expiry date.
A Touch of Blusher brings you highlights from 2007.
Makeup and Beauty Blog brings you 5 Makeup and Beauty Tips from Paris Hilton.
Savvy Skin tells you the Top 10 Signs You're A Beauty Junkie.
Just in time for you to ring in the New Year, makeup loves me teaches you the fine art of properly applying false eyelashes.
Ellen from Spa Beautifully shares the Top 10 Beauty Trends to Look for in 2008.
Beauty and Fashion Tech has found that The ThermaClear Acne Treatment Device is One of the Year's Most Interesting and Useful Devices.
The results are in for Temptalia's Best of Beauty Awards 2007, check out who won!
Sugar Shock says, "My Lips are Sealed".
Christine at 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic spends time with Celebrity Makeup Artist Jake Bailey and Max Factor.
Beauty Secrets Revealed Shares a Blueberry Age-Defying Face Pack Recipe.
At Teen Style Lounge, Liberty shares 6 Quick Tips to Super Kissable Lips.
eBeautyDaily lists the top 10 beautiful things she couldn't do without in 2007.
The Scented Life says that Bond no 9 is bringing Andy Warhol back to life - in a little silver bottle!
Beauty Banter muses on the 5 Minute Make-Up application! Including the EXACT products you'll need to achieve the no-fuss look!
NY Spender asks "Is your hair color right for you?"
A Girl's Gotta Spa! thinks the Baby Quasar LED Light Therapy is a splendid secret weapon against acne & wrinkles.
Makeup Minute thinks Billy B's Paintbrushes are splendid beauty tools that are worth every penny.
Cinnamon Kitten's 2007 in Review: 5 Favorite New Products.
Beautyholics Anonymous has Effective Ways To Losing Weight.
Beautiful Makeup Search says that this is one must-have beauty product that works for everyone.

FASHION
Eagle eyed ShopDiary was the first blogger to point out the startling similarities between dresses by Diane Von Furstenberg and Forever 21. A week later, DVF sued Forever 21.
Style...a work in progress says "...Sea Bass, Sea Bass...that's four Sea Bass".
STYLEnosh asks the the difficult question, "Have You Let Yourself Go?"
She Knows Best has a Men's Fashion Don't List.
Spork Fashion Exclusive! Actress Shannyn Sossamon Shares her Style.
The Snarkstress needs your help in finding out just what exactly is on David Beckham's head.
Indie Style File has A Take five interview with Kelly of Killer Cotton fame.
The Fashionable Kiffen says that fashion is an art form.
CelebLOOK tells you where to get Emmy Award Dress Look-a-Likes.

SHOPPING
Laya's EYE shows us a new class of wine glass charms.
Her Accessories has a list of 10 reasons (or excuses) to treat yourself to a really good pair of shoes.
Style It Less '07 Review | List Of Under $100 Stylish Looks.
Style Tots has some Spring 2008 Pediped News.
Shopalicious is convinced that these knickers will put you in a festive mood to ring in the new year!
Kim at All That and a got in lots of pics of Simply Vera, the Vera Wang line at Kohl's.
The Latest Luxe says to Set Your Gold Standard with Stiletto Patent Sandals by Bruno Frisoni.
Aging Fabulous says that these are Must-Have Wicking Pajamas.

The Splendicity community wishes you and yours a very happy, healthy, and splendid new year!

Everyone knows I have been a long time fan of Sharon Bolton Scents; my gosh she was one of the first few companies to send me products to review way back when. So of course, I would not surpass writing a review on her recent concoction, Dream.

Dream is a mix of bergamot, white freesia, and mimosa with accords of sandalwood, amber and exotic musk. When you first apply Dream, the exotic musk is the first scent that presents itself. When I was younger my mother had a musk scented perfume she kept in our bathroom closet. As soon as I took in the fragrance of Dream, I was immediately taken back to being 10 years old and playing with my mom's perfume (unbeknownst to her). What a great memory.

Wearing Dream makes me feel like I am right there on the California coast walking the shore line on their gorgeous sandy beaches. It's like the wind through your hair as you take in the salty air.

Dream is a limited edition fragrance and can only be found at Harmony Lane. If you've tried this fragrance I'd love to hear your thoughts on it.

Tammy and I think on the same wavelength; she understands that moms need to take time for themselves in order to be able to give 100% to their families. Oftentimes, being a mom means you put yourself and your needs last-- I'm sure you all know those days of sweat pants and pony tailed hair. Tammy's blog, A Mom in Red High Heels, is about empowering moms to look and feel their best.

Tammy is the mom of 2 and her blog offers up reviews on beauty and fashion, as well as hosting many giveaways. Besides the fact that she is incredibly gorgeous, I love the support she gives moms just looking for someone who can relate to them.

As you know, I am a huge supporter of my fellow moms, so please take a stroll on over to A Mom in Red High Heels and say hi to Tammy.

I've recently had the pleasure of trying out a product that is new here in the U.S. called Kaeline Argatherapie from Xandra Renouvelle. Argarome Bain (bath oil) and Argarome Jour (facial serum) are 100% natural and are a combination of Argan Oil and essential oils. Argan Oil is exclusive to Morroco, as the fruit from the trees it is harvested from are indigenous to this region.

I honestly had never heard of Argan Oil until this point and the thought of using oil on my combination skin made me feel skeptical that it could actually help my acne. I don't have acne in the sense of needing any medication, but I am prone to bad break outs that make me feel like I am 13 all over again.

Argarome Jour: This serum is good for all skin types and should be applied in the morning before or in place of your moisturizer. What I did was use it alone every other day and on the off days use it in combination with my normal moisturizer. Rose oil is added to the Argan Oil/essential oil combination. The scent of the serum is Ok; I had expected a rose scent, which you can smell only a little bit, but the overall scent is hard to describe. The scent only lasts a short period of time though, as the serum absorbs into your skin quickly.

You only need a pea size amount of the Argarome Jour to smooth over your face and it is not greasy feeling. Amazingly, I absolutely saw results in the tone and reduction of inflammation to my skin. If I can refer you to my recent review of Conair's Infiniti Nano Hair Straightener, you can see a recent picture of me and my acne-free skin. I'm really quite impressed.

Argarome Bain: When I received this bath oil, both Brody and I had a cold. The rosemary, lavender and lemon essential oils worked fabulously to help relieve our congestion, while also softening our skin. I only put half a capful into Brody's bath (with no baby toys so that he wouldn't ingest the oil) and 2 capfuls into my bath. It was so relaxing and soothing. This is definitely on my list as one of my favorite bath oils.

Here are a few of the wonderful things Argan Oil can do for you:

* Alleviates acne & reduces scarring
* Adds vitality to hair and nails
* Reduces skin inflammation & irritation
* Hydrates skin and softens fine lines

Here in the U.S. Kaeline Argatherapie is only available through Xandra Renouvelle, which I am happy to say is mom owned and operated. Visit the website to learn more about Argan Oil and to see a complete list of Kaeline products available: www.xandrarenouvelle.com

Hello gorgeous hair. I sure have been in hair heaven these last few weeks since receiving the newest Conair line of Infiniti Nano Ceramic Tourmaline hair styling tools. You've seen my hair using the Infiniti Nano Silver Hair Setter and today I give you the magic of the Conair Infiniti Nano Ceramic Hair Straightener.

(I'm also rocking this gorgeous necklace from Lancome!)

As you can see, I have pretty long hair, not to mention the fact that it is wavy--not beach wave hair, but straggly waves. Yuck. So I tend to spend a long time using a rounded brush and blow drying the heck out of it to make it straight.

With the Infiniti hair straightener from Conair, I just set it on the silver heat resistant mat that comes with it and because my hair is very thick and coarse, I set the temperature to 330 degrees. It heated up pretty quick and because this particular hair straightener is 1 3/4" in length, I can section off more hair making this pretty quick and painless.


Besides straightening my hair quickly, do you see that amazing shine? And frizz? What frizz? Wow! That is one thing I loved about this Infiniti hair straightener, the frizz went away as I smoothed this through my hair.

The Inifiniti Hair Straightener also comes with a heat resistant pouch, so when I am done, no need to worry that little fingers will be checking it out. I just put it in the pouch and fold the mat around it, snap shut and voila! I'm done with no worries about the kids getting burned.

You will *love* this product! Just look at me, don't I look like I love it?!

Available at Drugstore.com for $79

Ps. Thanks to my incredible photographer for making me look so good--my 8 year old son Gavin!

Dry skin got you down? There's nothing worse than dry, itchy skin--especially in the winter with your thermostats up or in my case, skin's nemesis-- the wood stove. Lucky for me that I decided to give Skin MD Natural a try. Or rather..."another" try; let me explain...

I received Skin MD Natural a year ago to review. At that time I was pregnant with Brody and if you are a mom then you are well aware that hormones like to play tricks on you. My skin at the time was a horrible mess of dryness and one application of Skin MD Natural and my legs and arms never felt softer. Not even just soft, but like silk. I couldn't believe it and wondered how I had never heard of this skin care miracle, but then pregnancy reeked some havoc and my skin began to have a reaction--my ankles, for some reason, got incredibly itchy. So I put it aside and hoped that after Brody was born I could give it another try.

Brody arrived and, as you know, I have 4 boys--life got in the way. Then someone I met in November mentioned giving it a try, all the while I kept hearing my fellow beauty bloggers rave about it. So I got another bottle and again--super soft satiny skin. I mean beyond what normal lotions do. Skin MD Natural is a shielding lotion and it was as if you could feel that protective barrier blocking out all that is harmful and preventing dry skin.

So I waited, day 3, 4 5--still super soft skin, 6, 7, 8...satiny skin reigns supreme, 9, 10, 11...a big sign of relief. It appears that whatever happened with my ankles when I last gave Skin MD Natural a try was just a big fluke and probably attributable to my pregnancy. Thank God because I have never used a lotion like this! It's no surprise that my skin is so soft, as Aloe is a major player in this skin care lotion.

If you have dry skin, this is a definite must-have. I would also highly recommend it for anyone who is a nurse, doctor, day care provider or mom--anyone who repeatedly has to wash their hands. Skin MD Natural will be a life saver in preventing dry cracked hands.

Have you used it?

Once a year the editors of Luxury SpaFinder pen unabashed love letters to the spas that spark their passions - from Nam Hai in Vietnam to Royal Palms in Arizona.

To help you discover 60 of the world's best spas, Luxury SpaFinder has created an interactive map as a fun way to scan the globe, pick a destination, and learn more about it. Using the latest version of MicrosoftR Virtual EarthT technology, you will be able to instantly learn details about the spa that's perfect for you.

The 60 spas are sorted into six categories including:

* DAMN THE EXPENSE: PRICEY SPAS THAT PAY OFF: The bill may be as stunning as the decor, but these spas are worth every pretty penny. Luxury SpaFinder salutes its dearest indulgences, from the $8,000-$12,000 per night Private Reserve at Soneva Gili in the Maldives, accessible only by boat and with its own spa and butlers, to Mexico's Las Ventanas al Paraiso, whose Total Spa Lifestyle Program/Fitness ($13,425 for four nights) includes your very own personal staff of trainers and therapists and a gorgeous two-bedroom suite with its own massage room.

* URBAN SANCTUARIES: CITY ESCAPES IN THE CITY: Sometimes sanctuary is only a cab ride away. Even the reception area of the spa at Prague's Mandarin Oriental inspires quiet contemplation - in keeping with the 14th-century building it occupies, a former convent-turned-monastery. In Chicago, the Peninsula boasts the Miracle Mile's largest hotel spa, where guests can enjoy a Thai massage in a glass-walled studio twenty stories above the city.

* CULTURAL IMMERSION: LOCAL FLAVOR: At Bali's Hotel Tugu, the spa blends its own products, and the star therapist is a former laundry-room staffer who revealed a gift for a type of massage punctuated by prayer. Bathing is elevated to an art form at Japan's Gora Kadan, which offers visitors an escape not just from the 21st century, but from the 20th, too.

Other categories include: Design Show Stoppers, Domestic Bliss, and Exotic Hideways.

The magazine's contributing editors also chose spas they love in their respective areas of expertise: PoundWise columnist Susan Crandell "weighed in" on her three favorite fitness faves, and value-loving spa spy "Vera Value" fell hard for five deals she found.

Check it out at Luxury Spa Finder!

For those of you love Isaac Mizrahi as much as I do (I should really start a fan club), he will be doing a show at Blender Theater at Gramercy on Friday December 21st at 9pm (with surprise guests!) I sure wish I lived in NYC.

And that perfect logo tote is still calling my name. Have you checked out his website lately? Make sure you do, he offers a free download of his style book. How can you not love this guy?

I'm not really one for taking pictures of myself. I can guarantee you that I will find a flaw! However, I think that when you are talking about using hair tools, it's best to show what your hair looked like when you used it, hence a picture of me!

I have pretty long hair, it goes down to the middle of my back, which is a blessing and a curse. Blessing--gorgeous long hair, Curse--it is weighted down and often just falls flat. That's where testing out the new Conair Infiniti Nano Silver Tourmaline Ceramic Hair Setter comes into play (and that is a mouthful to say!) I typically use a curling iron to give my hair some volume with curls and know what a process it is..it is never something quick and painless. So I automatically had it figured that the Conair Infiniti Hair Setter would be the same way.

The way it works is that you set the temperature based on your hair type; so hotter for thicker, course hair, less hot for thin, fine hair. Heat up only takes 2 minutes, but make sure you keep the cover closed. The rollers are plastic on the outside and a slot to slide your hair through contains the tourmaline ceramic to heat your hair. Simply section your hair, roll it and clip it with the clips provided.
I moved through my hair pretty quickly and by the time I got around my head, it was time to unroll my hair from where I started. Once unclipped, the rollers actually slide right out of my hair. No pulling or getting the roller caught on my hair. For my bangs, I just took the largest roller and slid only the ends of my bangs into it and held it for about 30 seconds.

I flipped my hair upside down and sprayed my Alterna Caviar Hair Spray to hold the curl and voila! I no longer had pin straight hair. What you can't tell in the picture is really how great the curls looked--and they held all day.

Looks like the curling iron will start collecting dust. I love this thing and I can't wait to tell you about their new Nano Silver hair dryer and straightener. Have you used Conair's Nano Silver Hair Setter? Share your experience in the comments!

Available at Drugstore.com for $49.99

So I got a sample of this "hair mystery" shampoo and conditioner a few weeks ago and finally got around to using it this week. The sample was pretty generous in size as it lasted me for 3 hair washings, so I was able to really get a hold on how my hair reacted to it.

First off, I color my hair. I have to or else I would be a big silver and grey mess. This mystery shampoo and conditioner did not strip my hair color at all and it remained intact.

The scent is very clean and maybe a hint of fruit? My hair was also very soft and surprisingly very shiny.

Looking on the back of the sample, I can see the mystery product is from Proctor & Gamble. At first I thought maybe Herbal Essence reformulated their product. However, when I was at the supermarket tonight I noticed something on the Head & Shoulders bottle. The logo appears to be similar to that on the sample. Hmmm. My guess then is that the "Hair Mystery" sample is a reformulated Head & Shoulders..and honestly I am shocked. I never expected a "dandruff" shampoo to make my hair look and feel so good. Wow.

So what do you think? Have you tried a sample yourself? Am I on to something with the logo thing? I guess we'll all find out on December 17th when Ellen DeGeneres will finally reveal which brand it is on her show!

Update: It looks like my sleuthing skills paid off! Head & Shoulders was indeed the mystery shampoo & conditioner! I'm still floored by how great it made my hair look and feel!

While my Homemade Band went on a brief hiatus due to a dispute between the singer and the drummer, they recently (today at 2pm) got back together and added a new member to wish you a Merry Christmas. No word yet if they plan to go on tour--watch out Naked Brothers Band!

ha!

ps. For some reason the beginning of the video got chopped during upload...they were announcing their names: Gavin, Connor, Duncan and Brody.

I adore the scents of almonds in beauty products and love all natural products-- I get the best of both worlds in Ceci Cela's lip balm and almond moisturizing body bar.

The body bar combines a natural vegetable glycerin base with oatmeal, shea butter and Vitamin E while the lip balm is a combination of beeswax, aloe and Vitamin E. The lip balm is also infused with essential oils (and does come in Spearmint as well).

I loved that the soap resembled a massager with one side of the soap being smooth and the other having individual rounded nubs that also have pieces of oatmeal in them for gently exfoliating the skin.

Both products were great in texture and I loved how well moisturized my skin and lips felt. The almond scent was heavenly, as well.

Ceci Cela products can be found at Fred Segal Beauty, Paul Lebrecque and if you are in Paris, at Colette.

Um, Santa I want him for Christmas. And some Solessence Creme de la Coconut Scrub, of course! See Solessence's website to find out how you can score some free products just by watching The Fashion Team on TV Guide Channel on December 16th at 7pm EST!

My friend Felicia who writes The Well Heeled Society is having a gift bonanza! In collaboration with Heels.com, one lucky winner will be given a 50% shopping spree on any shoe, any amount of pairs up to $1000!

Shoe lovers, you won't want to miss out! Please see the details on The Well Heeled Society to find out what you have to do to enter! Contest ends December 17th!

Essie is offering readers 10% off on orders of $40 or more at essie.com.
Good only until December 16th. Use promo code: BLG9

Normally I'm not one to review perfumes, but I happen to have 2 sitting here, one of which is Roxy. I wasn't sure what to expect with the scent--I was told it would be fun and dynamic, but knew nothing of the notes that would capture it. So as I breathe it in once again to be able to describe it to you...I can only help but smile as it somehow reminds me of my past--single, carefree, adventurous.

Roxy is a sunny floral scent with a punch of fruit. Zesty citrus fruits and velvety berries, Magnolia, Lily of the Valley and Violet intertwined with musk, Ylang and the Frangipani flower make Roxy feel uncomplicated.

It is a fresh clean scent and one whose various elements emerge at different times while wearing it. The only downside is that it wears off a little too quickly.

However, I loved it and I'm sure you will too. The fragrance is targeted for 15-25 year olds, which explains why it reminds me of my younger days. www.roxy.com

Ha-so Andrea at Glamour thought I was an inspiration? I feel like I pale in comparison to the amazing Syd Curry. Syd Curry is an amazingly talented celebrity hair stylist who amassed some pretty impressive clientel, all while being an addict. There is nothing glamorous about being an addict, no, but how Syd pulled himself together after 30 years of addiction and has now achieved 20 months of sobriety and relaunched his career without missing a beat---now THAT is inspiring. Wanting to share his story so that he can inspire others to get clean--even more so.

In an exclusive interview, he granted me access to look at his career, hitting rock bottom and how determination can never keep a good man down.

Need a pick me up? Look no further than my interview with Syd Curry.

About a year ago I reviewed Avon's Instant Manicure. When I received Incoco's Dry Nail Applique, I had wondered if it would be any different. While in theory, the product works exactly the same, I found that Incoco's kit gives you more bang for your buck.

Incoco's Dry Naill Applique kit comes complete with:
1. 20 color strips
2. Cuticle Stick
3. Mini buffer/file
4. Polish removal cloth

Application is easy, as you match up a strip based on size with each nail. Peel off the protective layer and stick on. Smooth it on from the bottom to tip, fold over your nail and then use the file to file off the excess. I found that each of the strips matched my nails perfectly, which meant lucky for me, I got 2 manicures out of each package!

I absolutely loved that everything you need is provided in the kit, so no searching for your file, buffer, cuticle stick, cotton balls or nail polish remover. The package the nail appliques come in is also resealable and they provide you with special tape to seal it so that they do not dry out.

The nail polish remover pad is soaked with polish remover, so there is no chance it will dry out mid-way through removal. It is also textured to make removal easier. I tried to remove the polish on one hand using a typical cotton pad and nail polish remover and found that the pad provided was much easier and quicker to use.

The polish didn't last me the full 14 days it promises, and just as Avon's, it only lasted about 10-12 days. And honestly? That is much better than typical polish, which usually chips on me by day 2.

Another benefit I noticed--when I removed the polish, my nails seems stronger, smoother and were definitely longer. For only $3.99, I'd say Incoco's product is well worth the money.

This product is available at Walgreen's and comes in 20 color choices. Have you tried it?

Last Christmas my husband gave me a gift certificate to The Lodge at Woodloch. It is listed as one of Forbes Top Ten Most Luxurious Spa's and it happens to be only about 30 minutes from my house. I finally got to use this gift certificate this weekend and treated myself to a facial and massage.

Before I even get to the review of the treatments, The Lodge at Woodloch has a fabulous Women's Retreat (and a separate one for men) that is also worthy of a write up. You get a locker to store your clothes, bags etc. which is really not a "locker" at all. It is a gorgeous wood mini storage closet, complete with shelves and a hook to store your things. It has an electronic keypad, where you determine the lock code for safe, secure access to your things. In between storage units are oversized leather ottoman's. On the other side of the storage units is a room filled with plush comfy seats, leather chairs, an entire glass window wall that looks out to a lake and a roaring fireplace. There is a counter with fresh fruits, nuts and teas available.

There are two hallways that contain 5 private shower rooms each with stone flooring in the glass shower stalls and has Rosemary scented Shampoo, Conditioner, Shower Gel and Lotion. A large vanity room joins both hallways and comes complete with hair dryers, curling irons, hair styling products and everything necessary to freshen up.

The Women's Retreat also has a whirlpool in a frosted glass enclosed room. The frosted glass gives you small peaks of the outdoors with its fern stenciling. In a separate room in the same area of the whirlpool is a steam room, a sauna that boasts scents of lavender and an enclosed porch with a view of the lake. A pitcher of iced water and fresh slices of lemon await you on a table outside all of the rooms.

Further into the retreat is the Aqua Garden. It has a large indoor pool and a waterfall that cascades in to a multi-level whirlpool (one on an upper level and one below it). The Aqua Garden is surrounding by windows on 3 sides and just outside is the Horizon Whirlpool that is heated enough that it can be used in the winter.

The Women's Retreat can be used by spa patrons for one hour before treatments and up to one hour after your treatments have completed. The Women's Retreat alone is worth a visit to The Lodge at Woodloch.

I recently got to try out Spasensials Intensive one-step moisturizing and conditioning socks and gloves. Both are infused with Vitamins A, b5, E, Aloe and Jojoba and both are geared to get the job done within a 15 minute time period.

The socks and gloves are lined with a thin layer of gel and the outside is cloth with ridges, there is a fresh clean fragrance to the gel. While this particular kit didn't come with the exfoliating buffer for the feet (such as the one sold through Amazon) , it is highly recommended to exfoliate both your hands and feet, sloughing off the dead skin, before using these products to get the full effect of the moisturizer easily absorbing into your skin. You can read more about the benefits of exfoliating on Beauty Pro.

Both the socks and gloves say "One size fits most." I found the socks to be a bit too small and struggled a bit to get them on my feet (my foot is a size 7), so if your feet are any bigger you may just have to cut a small slit at the top to allow more room for your foot to slide in. Once my foot was in, the sock wasn't tight at all and it appeared the main issue had to do more with the opening to the sock than the actual size of the sock. The gloves were the opposite, as they were a little larger than my hands, but then again I am only 5'1" and have pretty small hands.

You should only use one product at a time and should start with the socks. The directions do advise caution as your feet will be slippery within the sock and if you walk around you could slip. I personally chose to walk around because I found that the ridges on the outside of the sock tended to massage my feet as I moved. This made my feet feel great, as did the cooling sensation of the gel. For my hands, I chose to massage each hand with the gloves on as the ridges again played an important role in massaging my skin.

After 15 minutes you take the product off and further massage in the gel. It dries in about 1-2 minutes and your skin will feel great. My hands felt very moisturized and the callouses on my hands were substantially minimized. Even the day after using these products my hands and feet still felt very soft.

The SpaSensials kit is a nice treat and a great way to pamper yourself. The kit costs $11.99 and comes complete with 2 sets of gloves, 2 sets of socks and 2 buffers. All SpaSensials products are sold exclusively through Amazon.

I just came upon a really gorgeous online magazine for those of us obsessed with fashion. It's called Lovely and there is a fabulous article in their November issue regarding finding jeans that are the right fit (anyone else have that stupid gap in your jeans at your lower back? grr!) Lovely brings the look and feel of a glossy online with amazingly crystal clear photography, interesting visuals and great content.

I have to say, I was impressed with it the moment I landed on the home page. When you click on any of the 3 issues in the "living room" laying on the coffee table, it automatically brings you to a page with each page laid out side by side. Move your mouse slowly forward (or backward, depending on where you start reading) and click on the page image you desire to bring it up in full size. I say slowly because when I flicked my wrist with my mouse the way I normally zoom through things, the pages moved at the speed of light. But that's just me for you--always in a hurry. As soon as I paced myself, I was able to tap into each page easily. Good thing too, because I love this magazine.

Don't take my word for it though, go see for yourself! www.lovelymagazine.com The December issue is live now!

(Subscription is free and Lovely is published online monthly!)

My life is filled with an overabundance of stress at the moment and the other day when I thought my head was going to explode, I grabbed a Lavender Fields Bath Swizzle from fraiche off my product review shelf and headed straight for the bathtub. I was on a mission of relaxation and nothing was going to stand in my way!

fraiche's Lavender Fields fragrance will get your mind prepared for total stress surrender the moment you take in its aroma. Made with goat's milk, certified organic olive oil, coconut oil, cocoa butter and lavender flowers, this Bath swizzle is moisturizing, softening and relaxing. It's a little smaller than a baseball and quickly begins to fizz once it hits the water, erupting the scent of serenity that is sure to make you say, "Stress? Who's stressed?"

If you were not a big fan of bath time before using this product, there is no doubt that you may just become addicted after using it. I absolutely love this product and I highly recommend it. www.myfraiche.com

Have you used this product? Share your experience and favorite scent in the comments.

Oh my stars. As if introducing me to sushi wasn't enough (and I want it sooo bad and can't get it here!), Andrea from Glamour Magazine gave me the "awesomest" write up evah. Wow, I am so flattered.

Thank you Andrea! xoxo

And she knows I am on a mission--the New York Times will notice me yet!!! ;)

I'm so excited! I got to interview Piper Carter, an awesome fashion photographer that you may have watched on VH1's "The Shot."





Go check it out!

Fashion Photography Industry Expert: Visionary, Piper Carter

Tags: piper carter, vh1 the shot

Solessence:
Free Shipping On orders of $50+

SpaLook:
15% off Purchase of $100+ Promo Code: Spa07
$30 Gift Card when you spend $125+

e.l.f.
Get 50% on orders up to $15 Promo code: CAROLINA
Spend $10 and get a bath product for a penny! Promo code: ETBODAL

Benefit Cosmetics:
75% all items in their buh-byes section
Free U.S. Standard shipping with promo code: FRESHP65

Shoe Stor:
Free Shipping on any of their bundles of clear shoe storage boxes

Shoebuy:
Free Shipping on all orders

Urban Apothecary:
Free Shipping on orders $65+

The Body Shop:
Spa Wisdom Buy 1 Get one 50% off

Sephora:
Free 13 piece goodie bag with purchase of $25+ Promo code: GOODIES4U

StrawberryNet.net
30-60% off Gift sets



Tags: cyber monday, beauty

If you suffer from the following skin ailments, you may be interested in reading this review of Skin Free: Extreme Dry Skin, Skin or Fragrance Allergies, Psoriasis or Dermatitis.

I suffer from eczema on my elbows, Duncan suffers from eczema from head to toe and Brody's skin is super sensitive. I had the chance to try out Skin Free's Super Moisture Body Balm, Extra Moisturizing Soap, After Shower Moisture Spritz and Niaouli Butter Stick. Duncan and Brody were also involved in the review process (and their skin was very thankful).

First I am going to tell you that I loved these products because they worked. Second, there are two things I disagree with in their claims. Skin Free products are said to be fragrance free and non-greasy. The Niaouli Butter did have some fragrance, I could smell the vanilla and cocoa butter and the Moisture Balm I could also smell the cocoa butter. I realize that this is natural fragrance and not chemically based. With the exception of the soap, all of the products did feel very greasy--however it was due to the essential oils which absorbed into the skin in about 5 minutes. I have no issues with either the fragrance or greasy feeling, however for the sake of the review, I wanted to put that out there for those who might.

All Skin Free products are free of petroleum, chemicals, preservatives and colorants, which meant it was safe to use on Brody. I mainly used the soap and super moisture balm on the boys, which basically was a miracle in a bottle. Brody's dry skin and irritation was gone within a day and Duncan's eczema was minimized by 90% (he also told me it made his skin feel good). I used the Niaouli Butter Stick on my elbows, which is basically a creamy butter lotion that is easily spread as you push it up through the tube. The Extra Moisturizing Soap worked great on all of us.

I loved the simplicity of the Skin Free products--all are made of oils such as Olive Oil and Sweet Almond Oil, Vitamin E and the Niaouli Stick has Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter and Soy. Although I have heard that soy irritates eczema, my skin didn't seem to have any issues with it.

See all the Skin Free products for yourself and if you have used them, do share your experience in the comments.

I probably started worrying about wrinkles when I was 10. Seriously. One day I found that I had developed a wrinkle between my eyebrows. You know, when you scrunch up your face and you develop that fold? One day it just stayed and hasn't gone away since. So it's true--if you make a face, it may just stay that way. Always heed your mothers words.

Two products by Jordan Essentials that can help in lessening their appearance are their Skin Firming Serum and Age Defying Serum.

The Skin Firming Serum smoothes lines by firming the skin and gradually reducing the appearance of wrinkles, furrows, and lines. Skin cells are stimulated with the Phyto Essential blend’s highly bioactive nutrients that include cell signaling factors capable of stimulating important biological functions to awaken and replenish skin cells. The Age Defying Serum is infused with antoxidants and silica elastomers.

Why the Phyto Essential Blend is important:
Aloe has unique anti-inflammatory properties
Chamomile soothes delicate facial tissues
Green Tea is an antioxidant
Seaweed helps promote skin hydration

My mother actually lives by the Skin Firming Serum. She is 55 (and will kill me for telling you), but her skin still retains its youthful appearance. She's been using the Skin Firming Serum everyday for well over a year now.

There's no permanent way to rid yourself of wrinkles, even injections and plastic surgery eventually lose their luster and need to be redone. Taking good care of your skin is really the best way to treat your skin and keep it looking its best.

For the serums, as well as other great facial products, visit www.BigLakeSpa.com and click on the "Face Collection" category.

Related posts:
Jordan Essentials Spa Polish & Facial Brush
5 Tips To Improved Skin Care
Product Tips & Uses
Bathe Your Way To Softer Skin
Grapefruit, Anyone?
The Benefits of Glycerin

Veteran's Day weekend I happened upon a super fab sale at JC Penney's. I am now in love with trousers, I'll have you know. My shape looks so much better in trousers than they do in jeans, but sitting at a desk in your home office with a squirming 6 month old on your lap is no place for trousers. So they will stay reserved in my closet for my next NYC trip.

I mention my lovely trousers because I discovered why seamstresses charge so much for hemming pants--it takes too damn long to do. So on a tight budget my aunt recommended "hem tape." I roped in my friend Barb and we took up 3 inches on my trousers (ha and that is with "petite" length pants!) with this miraculous product! Have you used it? It's like iron-on super glue! And no one was the wiser.

Day Two (see day one here) of my adventures in NYC was spent wearing my super fab (and perfectly hemmed) trousers and going to a seminar on PR. I met fabulous people and learned a whole lot. I also ate the most decadently light cheesecake at The Williams Club. I almost engulfed it, had it not been for sitting at a table of 9 very professional people. I'm sure you can relate to a time like that--insanely yummy dessert you want to take down in one bite, but there's people watching and we are civilized and stuff.

Dinner that night was with Marina, who is a gem and gorgeous. We ate at Celeste, which was delish except so super cramped. If I really wanted to, I could rest my head on the shoulder of the guy at the next table.

Which reminds me--I was hit on 3 times during my trip! Ha! I found that amusing considering I am a 33 year old mom of 4 who has forgotten what it's like to be googled by men. My husband is wonderful mind you, but for 11 years now no one else has attempted to amuse me with flirting.

I did see Erika and Annie in the elevator, but unfortunately for me (but not for them) they were whisked around the city for Total Beauty and I never got the chance to meet up with them.

I have to say, I had an amazing two days in NYC. I can't wait to go back again.

Oprah's Favorite Things episode hasn't yet reached my TV set today--however I hear that she is in love with Clarisonic's Skin Care Brush (as well as Claus Porto Soaps).

The Clarisonic Skin Care Brush's Benefits:

* Pampers skin with instant softness, with just 1 minute
* Gentle enough for use twice daily
* Clears pores of environmental toxins, makeup and bacteria ~ without abrasion or harsh chemicals
* Clinically shown to remove more than 6x the amount of makeup
* Increases absorption of moisturizers more than 60%
* Is based on real science with patented technology
* Used by leading dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons and Spas

I haven't yet tried this product myself, have you? I'd love to hear all about it, so please post a comment to let us know how it worked for you!

Beauty.com is offering free shipping on this product, which can also be combined with their $10 off $60 or more coupon!

Tags: oprah's favorite things, clarisonic skin care brush

Spa-nyc.com is celebrating its 5th year online! They couldn't have done it without you, the spa-goers. So as an extra thank you, for the month of November, Spa-nyc.com and many of the best spas in NYC are happy to offer exclusive 50% off spa & salon services! Each day you can find different spas offering 50% off something great. From spas like Faina European Day Spa, Yin Beauty & Arts, Smooth Synergy, Spa Chinois, Laser Cosmetica, Delluva Vinotherapy Spa & many more.

50% off hair cuts &color.
50% off New York City massages, body scrubs & body wraps.
50% off facials.
50% off laser hair removal & Brazilian bikini waxing

Book your appointments early! These days will fill up fast. And when the month is over, don't be sad, www.Spa-nyc.com has 100s of discounts every month to over 75 of New York City ’s best spas and salons. Also spa reviews, the calendar of spa events, and of course, www.Spa-nyc.com's search engine to find the exact spa service and location you want.

No, you're not seeing things. I indeed said "titmas." I'll forewarn you that if you do not have a sense of humor, you may want to peruse other posts of mine. I'm the kind of person who loves people with a sense of humor, a little tongue in cheek, which drew me to Lenora Claire.

Chances are that you have read about her somewhere...she is infamous for the Golden Girls Gone Wild event--but she is also a very talented writer. She also happens to be passionate about breast cancer. Since I am too-- with a family member battling the disease, a friend who survived it and a friend's mother who did not, I wanted to show some love for an event Lenora is curator for that is a breast cancer fundraiser. On Saturday December 8th she is holding "Merry Titmas," an art event to benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The event will take place at World of Wonder gallery from 8pm-midnight. It's R rated, so leave the kids at home.

As the saying goes, "Save the boobies."

And PS. Lenora is amazingly gorgeous, so if anything, go to see her in person.

* Photo Credit: Austin Young

Picture this-- It's Thursday, the big day you are supposed to leave for New York where an action packed schedule awaits you. You were supposed to get up at 5am to get yourself (and the kids) ready so you can leave at 6:15am to catch a bus for 7:20.

Now imagine--"Shannon! It's 6am! Did you sleep through your alarm?"

Crike!

Not only that, but it is pouring--POURING--out. I don't own an umbrella, I have a car for pete's sake. So I ask my husband if we had an umbrella somewhere in the house. "Sure" he says as he brings me a black umbrella with bright yellow smiley faces on it. Ahhh--no thanks.

So we decide that we are packing the kids up and my husband was going to drive me into the city, as the next bus would never get me into the city on time. On our way into NYC, we find a WalMart and dash through the rain to pick up a plain black umbrella. Driving in NYC is craaazy, so we try to calm the kids nerves of incessant horn honking and people almost crashing into our car by telling them to look to the tops of the buildings for Spiderman and Superman. My 5 year old shouts out, "I knew it! There's the Daily Bugle!"

I finally arrive at my hotel, check my bags and grab a cab to meet Andrea from Glamour at Haru. In pouring down rain the cab driver makes me get out and walk a city block because he doesn't "feel like" driving around to the restaurant. So I walk in a downpour with big wind gusts hitting me--thank God for water-resistant trousers!

Let me tell you that Andrea is stunning. You think she is beautiful in her pictures in the magazine and on the Glamour blog? See her in person. I was an awkward mess of course, I probably talked way too much and she probably wished she had brought some Tylenol with her from the headache my rambling caused her, but she was gracious and wonderful--and I found, a lot like me.

And she convinced me to give Sushi a try--and I love it!

I wished lunch didn't have to end, but then I was off to the office, to where I finally met most of my co-workers and the CEO for the first time--funny that I have worked for them for more than a year and have never met them in person! And they are all great great great. Totally loved the in-house spa, although I didn't get to test it out. I'll have to see if I am allowed to blog about it here so you can get a behind the scenes look.

Back to the Hotel QT to check in and then getting off the elevator to leave for my next event, I run into Miss Beauty Addict herself. We hug and then I'm off to Bar Americain for dinner with an editor from a PR publication (not sure I can say who, sorry for the vagueness). Again--I was awkward and talked too much, but she was a wealth of knowledge and super nice. If you happen to find yourself at Bar Americain, try the grilled venison and red cabbage bread pudding! YUM! Plus the staff is awesome.

After dinner I was back to the hotel around 9 hoping to catch up with friends, but that didn't happen (which was very disappointing) and I ended up just crashing from exhaustion. I think the fact that the Hotel QT has the most comfortable bed in the universe helped too.

What a day.

Savvy Skin talks about Skin Care For Everyone.
Beauty Secrets Revealed shares a Blueberry Age-Defying Face Pack Recipe.
Viva Woman asks if higher SPF in sunblocks are better.
Spa Beautifully says Get yourself in the holiday spirit with some festive treatments.
Makeup Minute gets a makeover from Prescriptives.
A Girl's Gotta Spa! is in heaven with bobe Bath Essentials.
Aging Fabulous has the list of the Top Five Surgical and Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures.
Temptalia reviews MAC's latest collection -- Of Beauty, complete with swatches and photos!

FASHION
Beauty and Fashion Tech Reviews Nina Garcia's Little Black Book of Style.
Laya's Eye shows us some Thoughtful Tee's.
Indie Style File find the perfect skirt for Tetris addicts.
Girls love Glamorous Gucci at Shoe Blitz.
CelebLOOK takes a look at Jennifer Garner in lunch time chic.
The Petite Fashionista polls some of her readers. Come see what they had to say.

SHOPPING
Chloe from Her Accessories has put together a drool-worthy list of suggestions for Christmas shopping.
Stiletto Jungle has found a huge stash of C&C California tops on sale for 75% off retail.
Diva's Deals found some great cashmere cami's for a price you won't believe.
All That and a tries on a new look for the site.
ShopDiary is obsessed with Gryson's fabulously au courant boots!
Shopalicious finds peace in this necklace crafted from recycled vinyl records.
NY $pender lists her favorite snow boots for this coming cold season.

I'm heading back up to New York on Thursday and I couldn't be more excited--or intimidated--about it. Excited because I'll be seeing Lauren, Erika and Marina; excited because I hear someone will be *possibly* meeting "The Girls in the Beauty Department" but for sure is having lunch with one of them, excited because I will be going into the office for the job I hold and love...but not having lost the weight I had wanted to after having Brody and in fact gaining weight from being stressed about my grandfather (among other life-crisises) ...I am completely intimidated about not being a size 0 in an industry where thin is the name of the game.

Enter The Body Wrap. No it won't make you thinner, but it will definitely minimize your shape. Made from a combination of Nylon and Spandex, it flattens your stomach and slenderizes your hips and thighs. It's comfortable and gives your body a firmer look to it.

Yes, I admit, I will be wearing this under my clothes. I'm very self conscious about how I look, but The Body Wrap will help me to focus on having fun and not having to worry about how I look.

Have you tried it?

Of the many many things I do, being a rep. for Jordan Essentials is one of them. Formerly known as Country Bunny Bath & Body, it is the whole reason A Girl's Gotta Spa began and somehow helped me make a name for myself and land me many fabulous career opportunities. Being as busy as I am, I haven't had time to really put any time into promoting their fabulous line of bath & body and skincare products and it appears I may lose my rep. status come November 30th if I don't sell a certain amount to meet their required quota.

So, for your consideration, below are a few fabulous products they have available for the Holidays:

Variety Pack of Lotion Bars $30: Oatmeal Milk & Honey, Sugar Sweet Pea, Sweet Cucumber Melon, Vanilla Cream and Lavender & Eucalyptus. If you don't know what a Lotion Bar is, make sure to read my review--here--.


Joy Essential Holiday Collection $17: Black Raspberry Vanilla Lotion Bar, Shea infused Black Raspberry Glycerin Soap with an unscented large Lip Tube.


Hope Essential Holiday Collection $17: Purse size Mini Spritzer, Dead Sea Salt and fragrant travel candle in a delicious Black Raspberry Vanilla fragrance.


Happiness Essential Holiday Fragrance Infuser $25: A Reed Diffuser in Black Raspberry Vanilla.

Joy, Hope & Happiness Set $55

More fab products (including shea butter and salt scrub) can be found at www.biglakespa.com

See products on the site that you have questions about or looking for a recommendation on the right product for you? Post a comment and let me know.

For those of you have been reading A Girl's Gotta Spa since it's humble beginnings in October of 2005, you know how many template changes I have gone through all in an effort to get this site looking clean and fresh looking. Thanks to Chic & Sassy Designs, it finally does.

Zoe is extremely talented and completely underbids herself (Zoe you need to charge more for your abilities!) I love the way my site looks now and hopefully you do too. If you have your own blog and are looking for a fresh new look, head over to Chic and Sassy Designs and let Zoe know you heard about her from me. :)

Bobe--or Beyond Ordinary Bath Essentials, is a company I've heard about on the Lemming Central forum. It could be because they offer over 50 fragrances for their products and 71 flavors for their lip balms. Or it could just be that their products are pretty darn awesome..I'd have to say it's a little of both.

Bath Mousse: Open the jar to this decadent bath product and the fragrance will have you close your eyes, take a deep breath in and leave you with a smile. The bath mousse I have is in Pumpkin Cheesecake. And let me tell you, it smells like the real thing. Not only can you smell the pumpkin like a pie freshly baked out of the oven, but you then can sense that creamy whipped cheese cake just tempting you to take a bite. Heaven.

The Bath Mousse looks like fluffy white whipped marshmallow without the stickiness . It gently glides across your skin lightly scenting it, but completely moisturizing it.

Lip Balm: There's nothing worse than lipstick covering split, chapped lips. So treat your lips with care by applying bobe's lip balm. Beeswax, Shea Butter, Vitamin E and essential oils ensure that your lips look and feel healthy, so that when you apply your favorite gloss or lipstick you can tout it proudly.

The flavors smell like the real deal. I have pomegranate granita and candy apple. You'll be amazed by both the realistic fragrance and how soft and supple it leaves your lips.

If you've tried any of bobe's pampering bath and body products, I'd love to hear about your favorites. If you haven't had the pleasure of experiencing them, check them out at www.bobebathessentials.com