FAVORITE THINGS...to date

After much trial and error, I have finally discovered some of my favorite things. Things that I cannot live without (and some things that if I never had to try again...it would be too soon!!!). As a busy mom, wife and (never ending) nursing student, I don't have an unlimited amount of time to spend on doing things. So after searching and finding out what works sufficiently, is KEY! I wanted to find products/things that DO what they actually say they will do and not only DO it, but do it efficiently. I am just a mom, wife and student. These are products or things that work for me and my family. I am in no way saying these are things you should run out and buy. I am a pretty critical consumer and an even MORE critical housewife! :) If anything, it could just give you a good idea to add to your unknown. So without further ado...

1.) MAC Studio Fix Foundation in NW20  $27.00 
Fore-mostly I want to say that I have the WORST skin imaginable. Stress, age, oiliness, scarring, acne prone... I have been on the hunt for the PERFECT foundation to suit my every need. I have tried countless foundations and NONE have stepped up to the plate. Foundations from the drug store to name brand.  A connoisseur of makeup, foundation is always at the heart of it. I wanted a product that covered my acne scarring and any to-date blemishes or redness. Not just cover, but cover efficiently and quickly. I, in all honesty, don't have a ton of time to sit there and just apply layer upon layer of foundation to perfect my skin. One, even (light) coat all over and a little additional layer over my cheeks (which is my most problematic area). I want my issues covered, but I also want my skin to shine through. NO cakiness. I can without a doubt say this is MY FAVORITE foundation. It goes on smoothly. Covers what I need it to cover. Flawless. Lasts all day. A match made in heaven for this momma right here! :)

2.) CLINIQUE Acne Solutions  $14.00 - $18.00

My skin isn't the greatest and I have known through time, the harsh environment I encounter (sun, wind, stress....) does a number (on me at least). I have noticed such WONDERFUL things about this product and have been using it for years!!!! Until recently, I ran out of these products and had not had time (imagine that :) no time!) to run to the store and get more. I had a reserve of Neutrogena Toner on hand that I was using that for a few days. BIG MISTAKE! Now don't get me wrong, Neutrogena is a great brand. My husband actually uses this toner on his skin and he really likes it (which is why I had access to it). HOWEVER, his skin is not as oily as mine, nor is it really acne prone. So when I ran out of these products, my skin went into a haywire mode and just "lost it" so to speak haha. I broke out within days of not having my face wash, toner and moisturizer. I am currently doing damage control! I go without it for three days...THREE and I wake up with 6 blemishes...strategically placed in ALL the wrong places of my face. I confidently say these products are AMAZING!!!! Now when I even come close to running out I will head up to Clinique and get more straightaway. The appearance of your skin really does affect your confidence and with me, I feel like that is ALL everyone (and especially me) is starring at!! It dries up all the oil and doesn't strip your skin of the essentials it needs, so it won't dry you out so much that you end up producing more oil. 

3.) HOMEMADE GLASS/MIRROR CLEANER  (under) $6 to make A TON!!

I love the way a clean house smells and quite frankly...who doesn't?! What I don't like on the other hand, is the chemical smell that usually ensues. SO, in our household I love to make our own little concoctions of cleaning supplies as well as special little treats for my little boy. I absolutely HATE the way a leading brand glass/mirror cleaner cleans. I hate all the additional chemicals they put in it as well.

To make it, it is equal parts...

1 cup water

1/2 cup rubbing alcohol

1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar

I found spray bottles at Wal-Mart for $0.92 each...so I stocked up! 

Use this recipe in conjunction with....COFFEE FILTERS instead of paper towels or newspapers. They go MUCH further than paper towels and completely streak free!! 

4.) AQUAPHOR $6
Ever since I can remember I have been OBSESSED with chapstick. Until recently (maybe 6 months now) I had no idea this product even existed and shortly thereafter wondered where it had been all my life. Aquaphor is used for dried, cracked and irritated skin...and highly recommended to those who just got a new tattoo. My boys and I use this exclusively on our lips. IT IS AMAZING!!!! It goes a long way as well. Just a little dab on your finger for moisture and you will be beside yourself at how well it heals those chapped, raw, dry lips. I usually apply it right before bed, and countless times throughout the day. You will not be disappointed in this miracle worker!!! Instant relief.