Apr

Bat Those Butterflies

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Lushcake

Raccoon Lashes

Nothing but choices.

I’m not sure what frustrates me more: short eyelashes or clumpy, raccoon eyelashes. Since the ripe age of 14, I have been battling with my lashes, and nothing has changed (until now)!

I started with Revlon (as most girls do), and tried my best to get those “magazine lashes.” Regardless of the attempts, I have been unsuccessful. Over the years, I have: mix and matched mascaras, prayed, picked and prodded with toothpicks, and even contemplated road tar (just kidding about the tar). Now, thanks to people thinking out of the box, I use but am not thrilled with a moisturizer for my lashes and two (yes, two) different mascaras: one for length, and one for thickness. My “butterflies” were ok for a while, but I want more! I want longer, thicker, sexy lashes!

Now I use a “lash enhancer” to help my beauties flutter. Is it possible you don’t know what a “lash enhancer” is? I’m sure most of you do, and for those who don’t, a lash enhancer does what it is called and enhances the lashes (gives them thickness and lengthens them) with vitamins, peptides and natural ingredients (in some). When most people think of lash enhancers, they think of Latisse, but I use RapidLash.

RapidLash

I purchase it at Bed Bath and Beyond (for $50.00) and it works! I have received countless compliments on my lashes and feel confident knowing that the pigment of my skin will not darken, nor the color of my iris (which is known to happen with some brands).

Ingredients in some lash enhancers:

RapidLash (polypeptides combined with proteins and vitamins to strengthen and protect your lashes against damage or breakage and allow you to naturally grow stronger and more voluminous lashes on your own).

Jan Marini (Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17, Myristoyl Tetrapeptide-12Lash Conditioning Agents: Horse Chestnut Extract, Cinnamon Bark Extract, Panthenol, Biotin, Copper Ferment).

Latisse ( bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% as a novel treatment for hypotrichosis of the eyelashes. Eyelash hypotrichosis is another name for having inadequate or not enough eyelashes).

Lash Food (natural eyelash stimulant with herb extracts to provide you with longer, thicker and darker lashes. The breakthrough formula of Biotin (essential vitamins) and Arginine (Natural Amino Acids) and Iris extract (Natural Oriental Medicine Complex Extracts) promotes the natural growth of healthy lashes).

You can spend anywhere from $50.00 to over $100.00. You will probably not see results for 3 to 4 weeks and you should use it every night after you wash your face, but before you add eye cream, and night moisturizer (I hope all of you ladies are washing your face every night)! When buying a lash enhancer, read the ingredients and if you have had eye surgery or wear contacts, please consult your physician first.

As always, let me be brutally honest with you, be careful what you put on your face! Everybody’s body reacts differently to products, whether it’s lash enhancers or breast implants. Just because one person had a positive or adverse reaction doesn’t mean you will, so keep a close eye on what you’re using and never, I mean never, share your products with anyone! We love our friends (for the most part), but we will not love their germs.

If the eyes are the window to our soul, let’s keep the window wide open and beautiful to look at (and into).

Long Luscious Lashes

Take care of yourself…
xo, jo

Apr

A Rainbow of Colors

Posted on April 13, 2012 by Lushcake

It all started with St. Patrick’s Day.

I am “new” to California, and I was invited by my new friend (her parents are from the East Coast—Jersey/New York) to go out and celebrate. Of course, we were going to wear green, but what should we wear? She suggested cute jeans, a ginny-tee, and wedges (I know what you’re thinking).

Vinny-Jersey Shore (ginny-tee)

It sounded cute to me. My new friend got me started on a trend. Sometimes we are stuck in a rut and you see or hear something (so vanilla) that all of a sudden you feel like you’ve heard it for the first time. She said she wears ginny-tees (rib-knit tanks) with Capri jeans and shorts. For some reason, my thought was transformed into a vanilla/chocolate twist. I went to Old Navy where I picked up tanks in a variety of colors. My eyes popped (in a good way) just seeing the rainbow of colors, and I’m thinking a splash of color is the new serotonin boost we all need!

Old Navy Rib-Knit Tanks

I like layers: layers of cake, napoleons, lasagna, and clothing. You can start with one, add another, remove, and start all over. I started playing around with the tanks in my closet and got lost.

You are limited to your own imagination. I love to layer, add color, and play with textures. I also layer with camisoles (lace and plain), and I have many jackets from bolero to tailored blazers.

Here’s a tip: before you go shopping, head to your closet first and don’t forget to have a style magazine with you. Make yourself a cocktail, turn on the music, and try to piece together outfits with your magazine to guide you along. You’ll be surprised what you have hiding in the closet and what treasures await you. You can also invite friends over to critique your ensembles (make sure they are not frenemies) and when you’re done, go out to lunch!

Here’s some suggestions:
• A-line or pencil skirts (add a blazer during the day; remove at night).
• A tank under a flowing blouse.
• A colorful tee under a sweater (showing only the straps).
• A see-through shirt and splash it with a colorful tank.
• Work-out gear (an old favorite), and go meet a friend for coffee after yoga class.
• A lace tank with a long skirt (don’t forget a fedora)!

Have fun and enjoy! It’s fashion, and that should equal fun!

My friends and I on St. Patrick’s Day sporting our ginny-tees! We are a colorful combination!

LtoR: Jo, Alison & Hope

xo, jo

Apr

Men & Eye Cream…Who Knew?

Posted on April 11, 2012 by Lushcake

I have heard joyous chatter among small groups of women—is it possible that men might start caring for their skin? Men work out, take vitamins (maybe), shave, and get a haircut (I know some men who get a haircut every two weeks). I thought to myself, “nah, not possible.” Men want women to look sexy, stay in shape, take care of themselves, and rock their bedrooms like a hurricane (remember that song—the good ole 80’s), but what do women get in return? No thanks to Barbie, Sports Illustrated, and Playboy and thank God for Dove commercials! We try our best to be all that we can be and try to live up to “their” image. Seriously, men better step up their game or start sleeping with Fido!

Then one beautiful California day (again), I received a Facebook message from a friend I went to high school with, not a girl but a GUY! He was inquiring about eye cream! I sat back in my chair, took a swig of my white chocolate latte, and exclaimed, “Finally!” Times are changing! Ok, I got this one, I can help this guy out, and boy was I happy to do so! I hope that he can get his grunting guy friends on the man train to hotness.

I researched his request and sent him an email back suggesting these products based

Vivite Eye Cream

Bobbi Brown Eye Cream

on his budget: ROC, Bobbi Brown and Vivite

ROC Eye Cream

These are three great products, which have been used by men, and women also use them. I am hopeful that he will use one of the products and during a burping, screaming sports session grunt out the secret to his beautiful eyes and show the hard working, busting-ass women of society that men really do care about the way they look and aren’t afraid to fess up!

Eye cream, microdermabrasion, maybe even Botox? Who knows…

Hang in there girls…baby steps!

xo, jo

Apr

To shave or not to shave?

Posted on April 9, 2012 by Lushcake

Women shaving their faces—did you think I was talking about another body part?

Salma Hayek

Dare we confess this amongst family members, let alone friends? We talk about STDs’, condoms vs. birth control pills, and bedroom escapades, but for some reason mentioning shaving our faces is like summoning Voldemort (the act that shall not be spoken).

From one Jersey Girl to another, thank you Caroline Manzo (from the Housewives of New Jersey), for exposing your shower secret. I know the moment that you said that on the RHONJ reunion show, people nationwide were: gasping, laughing, shocked and relieved.

Caroline Manzo

As an Esthetician, I understand the importance of exfoliation, so move over men—we’re coming for the razor and the cream!

Women have pondered the question, “how do men age gracefully?” Well, here is one of their secrets exposed: they shave. As men shave, they exfoliate their skin, which in return gets rid of the dead skin cells exposing a soft, glowing, kissable face. If they remember to apply a moisturizer with a SPF in it, then they have dipped their toe into the “fountain of youth.” There are many other things we can do to fight the aging process, but for now, we are exposing what some women do and what all women should do!

If you dare to take a walk on the wild side, try this:

SHAVING 101

Use a razor (any kind).
Ladies shaving cream (we do not want to smell like a man).
Wash your face and rinse with warm water to open up the pores.
Apply a quarter size of shaving cream in the palm of your hand, spread evenly on the fingertips of both hands, and apply to your face.
Reach for that razor and shave from the bottom of your face to top of cheek (not too close to the eyes).
Rinse off with lukewarm water, pat your face dry, and carry on with your morning skin care routine.
REMEMBER to apply a moisturizer with a SPF in it (no less than 30).

Take your time and pay attention; you do not want pieces of toilet paper stuck to your beautiful face.

There are many things we can do to slow down the aging process. This is one of many and to be honest, we want to age gracefully. Showing some signs of aging is not horrible, it’s life.

Accept, embrace, and take the time to love those around you, especially who you see in the mirror every day!

xo, jo

Apr

The Streets of San Francisco

Posted on April 7, 2012 by Lushcake

As my stilettos walked me through the streets of San Francisco, a particular tune played over and over in my head. Remember this?

I was quickly brought back to the streets of NYC and my senses came alive. I love the hustle and bustle that city life has to offer and the rainbow of people crossing my path. As my heart started racing (in a good way), I knew my day would be filled with interesting encounters. If we allow ourselves the opportunity, we “all” get a chance to relish in the diversity life has to offer.

I’m not quite sure if it’s a “New York” thing or just my personality, but I was light on my feet and had a mission on my mind. What did the “streets” have to offer? I started in the Financial District, which is known for its cluster of high-rise towers that lays between Grant Avenue, east of the Union Square shopping district.

I wanted to see what the fashion flavor was and what SF had in store for me. I went from “cookie cutter” to “original flavor.” The people on the streets were a bit conservative with California flair. I could tell I was doused in NY attire and according to a group of young rough men (who were kind to me), I was walking to a different beat. The passers-by avoided them like the plague, but my Dad always told me to “walk with a purpose and never let them see you sweat.” I walked head-on in the crowd, and one of the “gentlemen” approached me (leaving no personal space) and called me beautiful. My response was, “make sure you tell your Mama that today.”

As I entered a mall filled with 200 stores (Bloomingdales and Nordstrom being the anchors), my mind quickly went into work mode. I wanted to see who were the residents, tourists, buyers and connoisseurs. I walked through the mall wondering if they were presenting anything different from New Jersey (Jersey is known for having amazing malls.) I walked out an hour later with a cold coffee from Nordstrom and a cute bracelet from the Kate Spade store.

Kate Spade-No sleep till Brooklyn idiom bangle

The bracelet paid homage to Brooklyn (my parents were from Brooklyn), and I was not leaving without it (thanks to my friend.) My take-away…a mall is cookie-cutter regardless of the location.”

My next stop was Hayes street. I had heard through the grape vine that I would find “up and coming” boutiques. I was going to compare them to the New York City boutiques and taste the flavor they were known for. I had my flat black leather boots on and I was good to go!

The streets were quaint with beautiful shaded trees. The sun softly kissed your skin and the scene was toned down. There was no hustle and bustle, rather an easygoing feel. I was meandering from store to store and the fashions were “original flavor.” I love that approach. Not that I don’t like a good mall (after all I was born and raised in Jersey), but you have to appreciate the freedom of an original thinker. The one who dares to be different, puts his/her penny (a $100 bill nowadays) on the line and takes a risk. I will mention some of my favorites and if you are ever in the area, grab a coffee and stroll on by. You will not be disappointed, and you will feel as if your best friend just told you and only you a fabulous secret.

Jo’s Favorites:

Lava9 – (No website)
As soon as you set foot in this store, the tantalizing smell of leather welcomes you. Lava9 is a small space with great use of space filled with wallets, belts, scarves, bags and beautiful jackets. In the back of the store you can see where all the craftsmanship is done. The store is a must see and the owner was a love; a place you should not miss!

Finn Boutique –http://www.finnboutiquesf.com
This store reminds me of a NYC loft. It is a trendy fashionable store with a European flair. There was elbow-room, and the feeling is light and airy. The layout was easy to flow through and again the owner was very friendly. I’m starting to see a pattern here, are you? The owner was present where all the glory and guts took place, and I believe there’s something to be said for that.

Cary.Lane – http://www.carylanesf.com
This was a fun store! As I walked down the staircase (which looked like a chic “girl cave”), I knew before setting one foot in that I was going to get lost in the fabulous fashions. Cary.Lane thrills you with brand new designer labels for men and women discounted by as much as 90% off regular retail. They specialize in carrying samples and past season items and the inventory is constantly changing. A definite must see and once again the staff was very nice and helpful.

When you have exhausted all of your senses take a stroll to:
La Boulange – http://laboulangebakery.com/
This is a warm and inviting bakery and the smell is intoxicating. Rest your feet and indulge in one of the many scrumptious pastries. This bakery has it all from homemade soup to quiche to treats and sweets. You will leave truly satisfied!

I could go on forever (thank goodness for my website) and tell you about the world of possibilities awaiting you but, I’ll let your own desires inspire you and hope we all take a moment to slow down and enjoy our precious time with things and people we love in life.

Before you leave your heart in San Francisco, make time for a breathtaking ride along the Golden Gate Bridge, then wander off to the coast line and continue on the path of beauty. Stop off in a picturesque town for a stroll and a bite to eat. What a wonderful day…

Golden Gate Bridge

Be well…
xo, jo

Apr

How to Cheat a Cheater…

Posted on April 6, 2012 by Lushcake

He says: ”It’s all in your mind, you’re starting trouble again, you’re looking for an excuse to break up, you’re crazy!”

She says: “You think you got the best of me, you think you got the last laugh, you think everything good is gone!” (you know that killer anthem from Kelly Clarkson)…

If that doesn’t make you feel better, then I don’t know what will. That song kicks assets and makes you stand up taller and feel a lot stronger.

So, “how do you cheat a cheater” you wonder? Here’s what I think:
1. For starters, follow your gut instinct. It’s there for a reason and I believe it is a gift from the universe to help us get through life. Sometimes it speaks softly, sometimes it raises its voice, and sometimes it screams bloody murder! Listen and follow it; it knows you like no other.
2. Don’t ever let your “personal stock” plummet. Imagine you are the famous Wall Street bull. You have serious self worth, you have a lot to contribute, and when you meet someone, you form a relationship. The two of you decide to walk into the future hand in hand and you become an unstoppable force!
3. Don’t ever be afraid to be alone with yourself. You exude a lot of strength, dignity, and pride. Another person does not complete you, they rather compliment you. Don’t ever give someone that power over you. You are a gift from God, treat yourself with respect or no one else will.
4. Thanks to him (or her) you got a new thing started; thanks to them you’re not the broken hearted (give it time)… You know in the end it’s your new beginning. Seriously, we have all been there. It sucks, because there is no getting around it! In the process of making us stronger, it leaves a scar, which hopefully we learn from. Take it from someone who knows, if you sacrifice your self worth you sacrifice your soul. Find the courage within yourself to stand and walk away. It will bring you to your knees at first, but you will rise as a fighter!

Be true to yourself…

xo, jo