Uncategorized

FRIDAY FAVES| BEST of 2017

Happy Friday Friends,

I hope you all had a great day!

Today I’m sharing Favorites in Five different Categories. I love all of these items! All the products that I’m sharing with you I own and were definite go-to staples for me in 2017.

I hope you all can find one or two of these products to try this year and add to your adore list!

 

1HAIRCAREILOVE.png

All three of these are fresh in the game as of 2017 they all smell & work amazingly!

Living Proof No Frizz Humidity Shield >> (here)

This has a grounding scent and holds my style well all year long but is a lifesaver in the humidity. I apply before heat styling and it just does a great job of locking in the moisture.

Tigi Catwalk Haute Iron Spray >>  (here)

I was recently running low on this and thought I’d try CHI again – as it’s been years but I ended up returning the CHI and grabbing another Tigi Catwalk Haute Iron Spray in exchange as it really did not compare at all in scent or in value.

Chi made me feel as though I was just going thru the motion of protecting my hair but it wasn’t really where as TIGI not only feels as though it’s protecting but it’s also nourishing and adding shine after the style so it’s only a bonus that it smells so – so good!

Batiste Dry Shampoo – Wild >> (here)

I bought this about 3 months ago for the first time and it smells delectable. I have black hair so I notice when I spray closely you see a lot of white residue so I truly have to uphold to the directions of spraying so many inches away. But it not only refreshes my hair and allows me to prolong washes but it adds volume and feels refreshing! Love this.

 

2HAIRCAREILOVE

Tom Ford Noir Pour Femme >> (here)

This is my newest favorite! Got it as a sample actually with one of my Nordstrom beauty purchases and fell in LOVE with the Orange Oil, Gingery, Rose, Indian Kulfi, Madagascar Vanilla & Amber hues! It’s legit perfection to me and I’m in love!

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle >> (here)

Staple since 2003

Alien By Mugler Parfum >> (here)

Discovered this scent about three years ago, My husband Will keeps this stocked for me as the bottles of perfume are refillable. He also has bought me the travel size bottles as stocking stuffers the last two years and I keep them in my purse. This smells so alluring and scrumptious! Will be a forever favorite and staple in my scents 😉

 

3HAIRCAREILOVE.png

Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream Moisturizer  >> (here) 

Worth it – every bit of it in the colder months. I have yet to indulge in all of Charlotte Tilbury’s goodness but I’ve only heard rave reviews about all of her products – truly!

This moisturizer is rich in goodness and does not leave your skin feeling oily but rather deeply moisturized and nourished. It’s almost as if you can feel your skin soaking up the rejuvenational awesomeness – it just leaves your skin feeling – oh so good about it! 😉

Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel >> (here)

This is worth every single penny. I have never used anything that has made my skin feel and appear cleaner and more pure. This is a WOW item. It did take some time for my skin to adjust so this is another product that just a dab will do. I apply a dime size to the palm of my hand rub and apply. Hands down the best facial cleanser that I have ever used!

Retin-A >> (prescription – not sold in stores)

This is subscribed by my doctor but is definitely the most powerful product I use for my face. It comes in multiple doses however I use a smaller percentage as it’s rather drying and just a dab will do! Ask your dermatologist about this.  (not sold in stores)

Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum >> (here)

I typically use this in the winter as the benefits are pretty amazing and it seems to really nourish and revitalize my skin when applied. I also have Mario’s facial sprays & masks. Great Brand!

 

4HAIRCAREILOVE

Sacred Mountain >> (here)

I love this one as I love deeper scents. It’s known for promoting feelings of strength, empowerment, grounding & protection and I truly feel all of that with this oil. It’s typically found on my nightstand. I apply it most often at night prior to bed on to my temples as well as to the back line of my neck and perhaps the tip of my nose. It’s a beautiful oil to use as a fragrance also as it’s just so grounding and calming.

Peppermint >> (here)

I use this most to relieve sinus pressure. I apply a small amount to my upper gum-line and sinus pressure is instantly released. I also use it to clear a stuffy nose by just applying a small dab in the center of my palm rubbing my hands together – cupping and inhaling for about 30 seconds.

It’s also great in our diffuser paired with eucalyptus!

Lavender >> (here)

I use this to apply to any minor cuts/scrapes for myself and the family. My favorite personal use however is to help relieve dry eyes. I work in an office so I’m on the computer many hours of my day and I tend to get really dry eyes at times. When I tap a touch of the Lavender around the under part of my eye, they are instantly relieved.

I also use this to calm the kids and our puppy baby Sofia prior to bed at times as well as before we go to the vet. This is my son’s numbero uno oil!

If you are interested in Ordering it’s super easy simply add what You’d like to your cart, create an account enter Member ID Number >> 3048455 and proceed to check out.

5HAIRCAREILOVE.png

MAC Flat Out Fabulous Lippie  >> (here)

This is my all time favorite lippie. If I had to choose one lippie in the world, this is it!

Estee Lauder The Smoother Universal Perfecting Primer >> (here)

I bought this last year for the 1st time, it’s a game changer in my makeup routine!

Anastasia Beverly Hills Dip Brow Pomade >> (here)

Staple

Tarte Double Duty Shape Tape Concealer >> (here)

Also bought this for the first time last year (2017) and loved it.

I used Maybelline FIT concealer for my under eye area prior to this but honestly Maybelline no longer compared as the quality of Tarte just blew Maybelline out of the water!

The other awesome fact is that although the shape tape is perhaps double the price it lasts four times as long. So it’s financially also a no brainer as you end up spending less annually

Urban Decay Eyeshadow – Thunderbird >> (here)

This color is beautiful for brown eyes – just absolutely strikingly beautiful.

I’m obsessed. 😉

Well that’s all for now My Beautiful Friends!

I hope you enjoyed this post all about my favorite products from 2017.

Have a great weekend.

XOXO

cropped-stephanieraeortiz.jpg

 

Uncategorized

FALL TAG | 2017

Hello Friends,

In case you didn’t know. . . .

lovefall

I’m so happy sweater weather has officially arrived! The Crisp Leaves, Fall Walks, Football Games, Specialty Coffee’s, Hayrides, Apple Cider, Caramel Apples, Pecan Pie,  Snuggling & Cuddling, Crisp Air, Bonfires & S’mores, Scarves & Layers, Hot Cocoa’s, Pumpkin Patches, Rust & Camel Attire, Lots & Lots of Leopard, Late Nights & Early Mornings, Sweaters & Fleece, Fur Throws & Candles, Autumn Leaves, Apple Picking & Pops of Turquoise. . . . are just a few reasons I’m lover of all things Autumn year after year!

Although it’s been in the 80’s & 90’s this past week I’m so ready for the Pumpkin Spice & Chai Tea Latte’s, Apple Cider Donuts, Roasted Pumpkin Seeds, Bonfires with S’mores and. . . Sweater Weather! So today I’m sharing a FALL TAG with you all.

9-30-2017 9-33-42 PM

 

1A

It’s pretty official when the leaves of the trees begin to change colors & fall to the ground. Our neighbor has a Sugar Maple Tree and we get to enjoy the sun-setting through our picture window in our front family room and when the sun hits that Sweet Sugar Maple Tree, it’s the most beautiful thing! That’s my sure sign that Autumn is here! I Love how all the Autumn colors appear, The Oranges, Greens, Yellows and, Reds that along with the fresh crisp morning air and beautiful Pink, Orange & Purple Skies are my sure signs that Autumn is officially here!

9-30-2017 8-58-50 PM

 

2A

 

Okay so I think I was to only have one answer however I kind of wanted to make it one of each of these categories! 😉  I mean why not right!

CANDLE: Bath & Body Works, Pumpkin Pecan Waffles

PERFUME: Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel

FOOD: Apple Cider

NATURAL: Bonfires

 

3A

 

I would say my no fail every year faves are Rust & Magenta along with Black!

Just click on the images below to shop a few of my Rust Faves!

9-30-2017 10-00-22 PM.png 9-30-2017 10-08-15 PM9-30-2017 10-12-36 PM.png

Just Click on the images below to shop a few of My Magenta Faves!

9-30-2017 10-18-12 PM.png9-30-2017 10-20-38 PM.png9-30-2017 10-27-23 PM.png

Just Click the images below to shop a few of my Black Faves!

               9-30-2017 10-33-24 PM9-30-2017 10-36-08 PM9-30-2017 10-38-02 PM.png9-30-2017 10-43-04 PM.png

 

4A

 

Caffeinated : Pumpkin Spice Latte

Non-Caffeinated : Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte (no water added)

 

Aren’t these mugs adorable! Just click the image to shop!

9-30-2017 10-49-13 PM.png

 

5A

 

Gosh this is hard! Is it American Housewife, Grey’s Anatomy, Designated Survivor, This is Us, The Voice or, Blackish. . . ? So much to choose from but I think the one I’m most looking forward to is . . . GREY’S ANATOMY

Here are a few perfect little extras to make the perfect ambiance for snuggly fall nights!

9-30-2017 10-59-07 PM.png9-30-2017 11-02-17 PM

 

6A

LEOPARD

I can’t even play with ya’ll LEOPARD is my favorite Fashion trend all year long but especially in Fall! But something about PINK this fall also, has really got me and I found it so odd to be so drawn to Pink for Fall but I so am!

Just click on the images below to shop these little leopard finds!

    9-30-2017 11-23-21 PM.png 9-30-2017 11-26-03 PM.png 9-30-2017 11-29-24 PM.png10-1-2017 7-54-29 AM10-1-2017 8-03-55 AM.png10-1-2017 8-07-02 AM.png

7A

 

Enjoying Pumpkin Pickin’ at a Pumpkin Patch with a Petting Farm & Apple Cider Donuts on a Hayride with my family!

Just click on the images below to shop these Sweaters that would be perfect for this time!

    9-30-2017 11-38-10 PM.png9-30-2017 11-40-20 PM9-30-2017 11-46-12 PM.png9-30-2017 11-48-14 PM.png

 

8A
I actually lay off of make up more so in the summer. Not makeup less & bare faced or anything but just not as much as Fall & Winter.

So my beauty routine come fall involves Bronzer, a Rosy Pink Blush, a Copper Brown Eye with Bolder Liner & Vibrant Lips like Wine, Red or Magenta. Those are my favorites come autumn.

10-1-2017 7-33-40 AM10-1-2017 7-36-12 AM.png10-1-2017 7-41-55 AM10-1-2017 7-46-09 AM.png10-1-2017 7-49-49 AM.png

Well,
I hope y’all enjoyed this post! Feel free to steal these questions if you’re looking for a fun fall tag because I loved answering them! #iloveallthingsfall

XOXO,

cropped-stephanieraeortiz.jpg

 

Uncategorized

What’s Up Wednesday | September 2017

What’s Up Wednesday!

It seems like it’s been so long since I’ve done a What’s Up Wednesday Post but in all actuality it’s only been a month since my last WUW So,

It’s been such an amazingly beautiful and fun month! I just can’t believe it’s just about over yet I’m so excited for October because. .

lovefall

 

ilfmoa

 

So let’s get on with What’s Up with me this Wednesday!

 

WHAT WERE EATING

 

Wednesday: Personalized Pizza’s on Naan Bread

Thursday: Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup

Friday:  Mom’s Chili & Cornbread

Saturday: Hot Chicken Salad

Sunday: Chicken Enchilada’s with Puerto-Rican Rice

 

WHAT IM REMINISCING ABOUT

Our annual Trip to Lambeau, with Football Season here, we just love football in our home and this trip kind of kicks off the season for us each year! I get so excited every trip, honestly time after time it never disappoints. I would have to say that Lambeau Field is definitely one of our Happy Places! #GOPACKGO

 

WHAT IM LOVING

 

I am a lover of all things leopard, red, teal, black &, magenta so I’m loving anything relative.

This Leopard Ruffle Blouse is Perfect for fall, to be layered with a basic cami beneath and styled with black jeans or a dark wash skinny jean! So cute.  

 

In case you don’t know – but I guess you do since I just mentioned it above but I must confess! I kind of have a slight obsession with leopard and these booties are everything!

I honestly don’t know what’s not to love about them! They are on my Birthday Wishlist and I’m kind of secretly hoping that I really get these beauties that can be pretty much worn with anything because to me Leopard is a Basic in Fall & Winter and perhaps all year long! You can purchase here.

9-27-2017 1-05-12 PM

 

I also love this Puff Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater in Red the color is so lively and I just love dramatic sleeves on a sweater!

image013

 

WHAT IVE BEEN UP TO

Well I guess an easier question may be what haven’t we been up to!

This month has been jam packed and literally flown by.

sept.png

 

WHAT IM WORKING ON

UPDATING OUR FALL DINNER GO-TO MENU

This past year we’ve really balanced our meals and cut quite a bit of processed food out of our day to day so inevitably their are a few Fall Menu items that perhaps I considered delicious just a year ago that I no longer have the desire for. So focusing on preparing a more nutritious and balanced Fall Menu is a little something I’ve been working on.

 

WHAT IM READING WATCHING

 

WATCHING . . .

Homeland, We have been watching Homeland once the kids are in bed as it’s not kid appropriate.

homeland.png

 

READING . . .

NONE LIKE HIM‘ by Jen Wilkin seems to be a great simple yet sweet read that I think I’ll complete rather quickly.

nonelikehim

 

WHAT IM LISTENING TO

Hip-Hop Rap like Andy Mineo’s SAY LESS, love the beat on this track. . . and a few of Lecrae’s new ones also. I didn’t purchase their full albums yet. I say yet because I just may it’s just at this time that I didn’t love-love all the tracks on each album but I’ll give them a few more runs soon to see. . .

9-27-2017 1-46-55 PM.png

 

WHAT IM EXCITED ABOUT

SWEATER WEATHER!

sw

 

WHAT IM WEARING

Well we have been enjoying a true Indian Summer here in Racine, WI. I’m talking about high 80’s low 90’s! So I haven’t had the chance to get into all the fall feels and sweater weather just yet. I haven’t even officially had my 1st PSL aka Pumpkin Spice Latte because the weather has just not allowed me to be in the mood for it quite yet however I did enjoy a Chai Tea Latte with Pumpkin Spice (no water added) from Starbucks with Will and it was so delish ya’ll. If you are looking for a Pumpkin Spice option with no caffeine! That is it!!!

So with that said I have been wearing my Spring & Summer attire lately. The closest I’ve gotten to my Fall Wardrobe is my Lightweight Cami from Gap in a Mustard Color atop of a Cami and a MAC Diva lip!

MAC Diva Lipstick

diva

 

Pink Cardi & Cami Combo

sweater cardi cami

 

LUSH Knit Maxi

I wore the blue on Friday and the Black on Saturday! Love this Maxi Dress & just the Lush brand period, it’s like made for me!

lushknitmaxi

LUSH Crepe Dress in Winetasting

I love this dress because to me pieces like these are transitional from summer to fall and winter to spring and can even be worn in Winter also with leggings and a long cardigan.

lushcrepe

 

 

LUSH Olivia Wrap Dress

This is perfect for Indian Summer Vibes also as it’s lightweight and still holds the beauty of Summer. (also comes in black, which could be paired with tights, booties and a scarf for more of a fall vibe. – Currently on Sale so I picked it up in Black also!)

lusholivia

I haven’t officially worn MAC’s Velvet Teddy but I got this in the mail yesterday and tried it on and I think it likes me! 😉  I also picked up another tube of MAC’s Russian Red as I kind of accidently fell in love with this also last year!

MAC

 

 

WHAT IM DOING THIS WEEKEND

 

We are going to PUPPY SIT Maple this weekend! We are so excited. We have collectively agreed upon what type of dog we would like for our family . . . a Black Labradoodle and Maple is a Golden Labradoodle so it’s kind of perfect that we get a chance to watch Abby & Bryce’s baby girl! Originally I had my heart set on a Goldendoodle but our neighbor actually may have officially talked me out of that. Anyhow we shall see what ends up happening but this is a great opportunity for our family to watch this sweet girl and will be insightful as to whether a puppy would be a good fit for our family or not.

maple

(Miss Maple – isn’t she the sweetest!)

Will is working this Saturday so it will be a true test for us all as Momma will be in charge with the kids help of course! They are already so excited!!! 🙂 I hope they don’t overwhelm her with their excitement and frighten her because when I say excited I mean they are E-X-C-I-T-E-D-!!! and ready to give her SO Much LOVE!

Other than that we plan to head to one of our local Petting Farms this Sunday and enjoy Family & Puppy Time along with some cooler fall like temps. Will be in the mid 60’s this weekend! 🙂 #happy

 

WHAT IM LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT MONTH

 

CELEBRATING OUR BIRTHDAY’S

9-21-2017 10-25-01 PM

Mackenzie will be 8 years old & I will be 33 years old! Two OCTOBER Girls in one house, crazy amazing if you ask me! October Birthdays are the BEST! (totally bias) 🙂

octoberbday

So I’m looking forward to all that goodness along with all the other awesomeness that comes along with. . . . FALL in OCTOBER!

 

WHAT ELSE IS NEW

Not that much actually! Life is good and I’m enjoying every moment, Thank you JESUS!

luke145.png

Well that’s all for now friends! I’ll see you back here soon!

 

XOXO,

sr

 

 

 

b