I Will Not Share Before Photos...I Will Not Share Before Photos

Once in awhile you have to break the rules, swim upstream, grab the bull by the horns, be a rebel, show'em who's boss, stick it to the man! Enough cliches? Thought so. There comes a time when you have to take control of a situation and be the boss. In this case, it is the seemingly endless battle of the bulge. 

I could wait around and do the typical New Year's resolution of losing weight, getting healthier and working out more like 75% of the population but I want a jump start. I do work out and eat relatively healthy now. I take Zumba, teach it and do other workouts when I can. But, I will eat chips or a piece of candy. Life is too short not to. I have also been known to enjoy a glass of wine, a martini, shot of tequila, vodka...anyone else thirsty? Ok, I'm getting off track. After eating too much Halloween candy and really enjoying Thanksgiving I decided to hit the ground running this week.

This time around, I grabbed a buddy, my girlfriend Kylah. We workout, eat, play, drink and relax together on a regular basis. I knew that she had been wanting to get more serious about her eating habits and workout routine. And for myself, if I am being perfectly honest...I want a hot body. I don't want anything "extra" hanging around. I want to be toned and have the best body I can while I am still young. I'll admit it. That's not a bad thing. Is it vain? Yup! Do I care that it is? Nope. I have no shame.

I've done this before. I know what to do. A few years ago I teamed up with the owner of a gym. I changed my lifestyle, lost over 30 lbs and got in shape. I figure if we start now, we have a head start on New Year's resolutions. It's so easy to let a cheat day turn into a cheat month, especially this time of year. It's a month long excuse to throw caution to the wind. If we wait til January 1st, we could have an extra 10 lbs hugging our hips.

So we have armed ourselves with recipes, workouts, motivational tools and goals. Today was not the most fun day of the whole process. We took before photos and measurements. I have PROMISED that those photos and measurements will not be seen by anyone. Otherwise, I will have to sleep with one eye open for eternity. So, for the time being, I will say that we weigh *** and *** lbs respectively. We don't have goal numbers, we have goal images and we know how we want to feel about ourselves. (Maybe when we reach our goals she'll let me tell where we started?!)

We will be each other's drill sergeants, cheerleaders, confidants and motivation from this point forward. I will let you know from time to time where we're at, what we've found out and if we have tips and tricks for you to try. 

If you've been thinking you need to do this too, grab a friend. Write down what you eat, drink and when you workout. It makes you accountable. Do it for the "hot" body, your health or to set a good example for your kids. Everyday you wake up with a choice of whether to take matters into your own hands or let them slim through your fingers. It's up to you!

You make your life what it is!

xo
Bethany

Channel Your Inner Snow Bunny Not Polar Bear

In the summer we wear less clothes. We're tanned, bronzed and blissful. Sundresses, bathing suits, flip flops and not a care in the world. In the winter we are bundled, pink, static-y and always searching for another layer.

Put the Snuggie, Elmer Fudd hat and long johns down! Here are some adorable and warm winter solutions to keep you fashionable and frost bite free!

Put a hat on!

Not all women like wearing hats or think that they look good in them. I'm a bit of a hat junkie. There are so many styles to pick from. Most importantly, a hat keeps the heat in and keeps you warm. If you really can't do a hat, there are these adorable headwraps/headbands that will keep your ears covered and warm. I love this beautiful headband. Tons of these on Etsy. I love getting hats from places like TJ Maxx too. They always have unique choices, great brands and a good selection.

Crocheted Headband
Etsy $15

Frost bitten toes are not sexy or comfortable

Sexy boots are great but they are not going to prevent frozen toes! Frost bite is not fashionable. Just because you need to stay warm doesn't mean you can't look great too. Now, I love these. They are a small fortune. BUT...they will get you through a few winters before they are worn out. They are warm and stylish. I'm going to ask Santa for them because my wallet already said "HELL NO".

Joan of Artic Wedge Boot
Victoria's Secret $270

Wrap it up!

I am a HUGE fan of scarves and pashminas. I must have at least 30. A scarf is a super easy way to add an accessory that compliments your skin tone, there by making you look better. Perfect! Maybe your black coat isn't your best color, add a gorgeous scarf and you've instantly brightened your face. There are so many styles to choose from too. I tend to love pashminas because they keep you warm but you can also wear them inside too to accessorize your wardrobe. One of the new styles I love are the infinity scarves. They are attached end to end and you just loop it a couple of times. 

Brighten up a grey day
Just because it's winter doesn't mean you have to stay in dark, muted colors. Wear something warm and bright! A bright cashmere sweater, colorful pants, a dress or even just a scarf will take the blah out of a 20 degree day.

Lovely leather
I love leather gloves for winter. I instantly feel like my outfit is complete with a pair of them on. They are classy and functional. I personally like the longer style. For one, they cover more territory, keeping you warmer and two, they work great with ponchos and cropped sleeve jackets too. Check out this beautiful pair from Macy's.


Don't use winter as an excuse to throw on 4 layers of fleece and be bulky like a bear. You can be warm and fashionable. Use winter as a time to channel your inner snow bunny. Legwarmers, bright tights (double up for a more opaque look and warmth), fur (fake or real), ponchos etc... are all fun winter friendly items that can add a lot to your look. 

Winter offers us beautiful fabrics, more accessories, rich colors and reasons to dress up! It might be freezing outside but you can still look hot!

Stay warm!
xo
Bethany

Stuck in a Rut? Let Me Pull You Out.

I get bored easily but I am also a creature of habit. One of the things I do love to switch up and experiment with is my makeup and hair. It can totally change your appearance. One of the best things about being a woman...we never have to look the same way! We all get in our comfort zones though and I know so many women that do the same thing day after day, year after year.

Are you stuck in a rut? Let me pull you out!

A great time to experiment with your looks is when the seasons change. Think about it, being bronzed and golden is gorgeous in the summer but once the winter months roll around, it seems a bit out of place. Don't get me wrong, I am a sucker for a good tan and sparkly summer shadows, but I try to phase it out once the gloves come out.

Here are some tips and things to try during the winter months.

Prime your canvas
If you've never tried a makeup primer, winter is a great time. Your skin tends to be drier in the winter. Putting foundation on dry skin is tricky, it can accentuate it more than hide it. Put your moisturizer on first and then slick on a primer. It will help to hold your moisturizer in and it gives your face a better surface to start with.

Laying a foundation
Your skin is most likely paler this time of year. It's important to match the color the best you can. The other important thing to look for is something that is creamier than your usual makeup. You want to keep your skin moisturized so choose a foundation with oil in it. Even if you have oily skin, it's a good idea. What you need to make sure you do is remove your makeup at the end of the day. That's what causes an issue.

You're making me blush

I love a cream blush. It provides a more natural look. Think of how your cheeks look when you've just been outside in the cold. That's what you want to achieve. Skip the bronzer. Go with colors like a berry or mauve. Redheads like me, go more towards a coral tone. I love to contour my cheekbones for a more sculpted look. To accomplish this, hold your fingers like I have them in the picture. 

1. Highlighter above the top finger.
2. Your normal blush in between your two fingers
3.Then underneath your bottom finger (in the hollow of your cheeks, when you suck them in), put a little darker blush color.
4. Blend well with a brush so that the lines aren't sharp.

My what beautiful eyes you have

Skip the pale sparkly shades for winter. They will wash you right out. This time of year is perfect for trying browns, greys and jewel tones. You can find great color combos to make it easier. Black eyeliner is always a good choice but I like to experiment with plum, navy, hunter green and brown too. If you don't want a harsh line on your lower lid, use a small angled brush and use eyeshadow instead for a more smudged look. Add a nice thickening mascara or falsies to finish it off.

Lips of an angel
I'll be honest. Lipstick is the hardest thing for me. I have full lips, so I tend to stick with my lip shade but glossier because I don't want my lips to enter the room before I do. It takes a lot for me to veer away from my comfort zone. If you want to experiment, the winter is a great time for rich berries and plum shades. They will enhance the overall color in your face, plus because they are a blue base color, your teeth will look whiter. Score! You can always try a gloss version if lipstick scares you. Everyone can wear red lip color too. You just have to pick the right shade for your skin tone.

Play around with your look. Most importantly, have fun experimenting. One of the great things about this time of year, when it comes to your beauty routine, is that so many companies put together special kits and palettes for gift giving. You can score some great deals too. So why not, give yourself the gift of winter beauty and scoop up some new
things just for you.

xo
Bethany

"Snooki on Ice", Snow Bunnies and a Cold Shower

Ready or not...here it comes!!!

What?! Noooo! I'm not ready! The calendar doesn't say it's winter yet?! But as we know, only in New England do we go from sunshine and 60 degrees to an inch of snow and 20 degrees in a matter of hours. I admit, I actually wore flip flops into the gym tonight. And yes, it was snowing at the time. I need to get over it.

Mother Nature may give us a run for our money this time of year but my goal is to help you stay a beautiful snow bunny even if you are freezing your tuckus off.

So, what kind of effect does winter have on your beauty routine? For today, let's talk about your hair and skin. In the next couple of blogs I'll talk about how to change your makeup for the winter and then what my favorite products are for the winter months.

For your skin, here's what you need to know...

Taking a long hot shower
I know in the winter, when you're freezing, this seems like a great idea. Unfortunately, it's not a great idea for your skin. After about 15 minutes, you make it so that your skin loses its ability to hold moisture. So either take a cooler or shorter shower.

Dry skin
Are you guilty of the long hot showers? Plus rough feet and dry hands are common issues too. Use a body lotion as soon as you get out of the shower. At night, before you go to bed, slap on some foot cream and then put on thick cotton socks. For your hands, remember to use a rich cream as often as you can. I also rub my moisturizer into my hands after I put it on my face.

Chapped lips
It's almost impossible to not get chapped lips in the winter. I am a bit of a lip balm junkie. I have them everywhere. The important thing to remember is you want one that is rich but not waxy. Also, if it is a menthol type, it can actually make it worse, which means you use more, which makes your lips more chapped and so on and so on. Vicious cycle. Avoid ones that have artificial flavors if yours are really bad. My favorite is actually made by Aquaphor. If your lips are really chapped, rub them with a warm wet washcloth to exfoliate them and then slather on the lip balm.

Bronzed beauty
Go easy on bronzer and self tanner in the winter. "Snooki on Ice" is not the look you want. Use a lotion with a gradual tanner in it if you must. Especially since sunless tanner really needs to be on moisturized skin or you'll like like a gator.

Frizzy, static-y hair
Cold air, heat, hat head and wind don't make for a great hair day. Try using hydrating and smoothing shampoo and conditioner. Also, a silicone based smoothing product works great too. Static is a huge issue for me. I've actually taken my radio station off air before from a big zap! I'll spray a brush or my hands with Static Guard or hairspray to tame unruly pieces and to keep it under control.

Summer hair needs to hibernate
Think about adjusting your hair color for the colder months. Looking sun bleached can seem a little off when there's 2 ft of snow on the ground. It's a great chance to add some richer tones to your hair or maybe low lights. Even if they are just temporary. Whether you're blonde, brunette or a red head, remember that you aren't as tan in the winter so being too light or too one dimensional can make your skin look pasty.


Those are just a few tips. Tomorrow I will let you know how to adjust your makeup routine. I'm going to go and put all of my flip flops away now and dig out the winter boots. Wait...what? It snowed tonight but it's going to be 60 this weekend. Typical. Maybe I'll keep one pair out. Just in case.

Have a beautiful and warm night!
xo
Bethany 

Even Wonder Woman Needs a Little "Me Time"

"I don't have time."

How many times have those words come out of your mouth? So many women use this as an excuse not to take the time to take care of themselves. We work, raise families, take care of homes and everyone else but ourselves. It's so easy to do and for some reason we justify it. Taking care of yourself is just as important as anything else.

Taking care of yourself is not being conceited. It is not being vain. It does not make you high maintenance. It means you value yourself and take pride in who you are from the inside out. It is not something to ever feel guilty about.

I promise you, you can still be a great mother, wife, employee, keeper of the house and Wonder Woman even if you make some "me" time. Honestly, you'll probably be better at it all.

Here are some of my best tips for being the best you possible with a limited budget and even less time.

Keep your makeup and hair products in a central location
Little ones running around the house? Locking yourself in the bathroom to do your makeup and your hair is probably not an option. I keep all of my stuff in my kitchen. It's in the middle of the house. I can see what's going on and get ready in between packing lunch and signing permission slips. You can also keep a small makeup bag in the glove compartment in the car for quick touch ups.

Pick your clothes out once a week
It may take you some time initially but if you set aside your outfits on Sunday night for example, you know what you need and can have it ready to go. Instead of that last minute rush at 7am scrambling around the house looking for socks, you can get started on that second cup of coffee.

Don't wash and dry your hair everyday
First off, its not good for it. You strip it of natural oils. If it's colored, your color will fade faster. Dry shampoo, I can't say it enough, it is a life saver. I have red hair. Red hair fades fast. My routine is straight hair the first day, curly the next and if I have to, an up-do day on day 3. There are so many cute hair ideas on Pinterest. Check them out. I love to spray my hair with salt water spray, braid it and sleep on it. Instant beach waves the next day in no time. Also, get a great haircut. Something that works with the natural texture of your hair. It will take less time to style.

Multi task with skin and hair care
A moisturizer that is tinted and has a spf, hair spray that adds shine and protects from heat and a face mask that also exfoliates. There are tons of great ways to cut corners.

Schedule your time for yourself
Pre-book beauty appointments. Even better, book them with friends. Then you get the added benefit of girl time. Set them for a time when your little ones can have a play date. Maybe you can return the favor for the mom hosting it.

Work out during commercial breaks
Can't find time to work out? Yes you can. I know you're exhausted but if you exercise, it helps with your energy level. Try this great little workout routine during the commercial breaks of your favorite shows. This one is great! Commercial workout
 

Boost your wardrobe without shrinking your wallet
Having a family is expensive. As mothers, we tend to take care of the children first, naturally. Which means a lot of times we are left with a less than stellar wardrobe. Check out thrift stores. So many times you'll find great designer items at really inexpensive prices. Have a clothing swap with friends. Gather all of the items you don't wear, get together with girlfriends and swap stuff. "New to you" can be as good as new! You can also add to your wardrobe with accessories. They can instantly change the look of your wardrobe and update your style.

Eat well
How many times have you skipped a meal because you are busy? Big mistake. It messes with your metabolism, blood sugar and makes you feel sluggish. Stash some protein bars or snacks in your car, purse or at your desk. It might not be a full course meal but it's better than nothing.

These are just a few ways to make time for yourself. I will go into more options with future blogs.
  
But for now, repeat after me...
"Taking the time to take care of myself makes me a better me. I am not neglecting my children. I am teaching them a valuable lesson."

Your children learn from you. Do not feel guilty for taking the time to take care of yourself. You are teaching them to take pride in themselves. This is a HUGE lesson. It matters as much as being nice to others, respect, etc...

If you are doubtful, do me a favor and try it. Even if just for a couple of days. Take the time to pull your outfit together, do your hair, put on a little makeup and see how it makes you feel. I hear from women all the time that try it and can't believe the difference. I am not saying devote an hour and a half each day because most of us can't and don't need to. But take a little time. You deserve it.

If you have ways that you cut corners and costs, I would love to hear from you!

Have a great night!
xo
Bethany 

Happy Hallothankstmas! What?!?!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas... WHAT?!  I haven't even put a dent in the Halloween candy yet! Well, not a big dent anyway. And what about that holiday where we all give thanks and eat until our pants don't button anymore?

It's barely November and the stores are packed with Christmas decorations, gifts, specials and deals. Don't get me wrong, I love Christmas! The movies, music and overall feeling of the season, but for me, I don't usually start shopping or making wishlists for a few weeks.

If we're going to get an early jump start, maybe I should start my letter to Santa. Hmmm.

     Dear Santa,

          I've been a very good girl this year. Well, except for......

Ok, maybe I should skip the letter to Santa and just list the things I would love to find in my stocking or under the tree this year. These are the things I wouldn't buy for myself all the time, or at all, but would absolutely love to have. These are some of my dream products that are maybe just a little more $ than I like to spend on myself.

HD Complexion Starter Kit $79
Make Up For Ever is my is my favorite makeup line. It's makeup artist quality. It goes on like a dream and stays on. I've used these products before and LOVE them.

NARS Highlighting/Bronzing Blush Duo $41
I like the Orgasm/Laguna combo. It gives you that lovely "flushed" look. It is voted "the" color by beauty experts and magazines all the time.

MAC Perfectly Plush Brush Kit: Essentials $49.50
MAC Perfectly Plush Brush Kit: Advanced $49.50
Good brushes are essential. They make all the difference in your makeup application. You can get great brushes at a smaller price point but these brushes are like a dream!

GHD Classic 1" Styler $185
Ok, so this little baby does it all. If you're someone like me that straightens, curls and cooks your hair everyday, it's smart to use a great tool to limit damage. This is your tool if you can handle the price tag.

Clarisonic Mia2 Skin Cleansing System $149
This is skin care at the next level. Your makeup looks best when your skin looks its best. Everyday skin care is crucial. This magical wonder tool makes it feel like you're going to the spa everyday.



So that's my short list. That's also the only thing related to Christmas that I am going to do for the next few weeks. I am going to get back to being thankful for all that I have. Which today, happens to be a pretty good hair day. Oh the little things...

Have a beautiful Monday!

xo
Bethany

10 Fashion Pieces I Can't Live Without

I love to shop but I hate to spend money. It causes a problem sometimes. It's rare that I spend over $30 on anything. Occasionally there are exceptions to the rule. For things that are trendy or seasonal, I tend to be a bit more thrifty. If I am going to wear it this season and then it's out of fashion next, why bother spending a small fortune, right?

There are some things that I find essential to keep in my wardrobe, and I will spend a little more on them if I HAVE to. These are things I will get a couple of years out of at least.

So that brings me to today's business at hand. What things should be essential pieces of your wardrobe? Here are the "Top 10 Pieces I Can't Live Without".

1. Good Butt Jeans
Jeans can be a shopping nightmare. If you find a pair that make your butt look great, buy them and buy them in bulk. If they get discontinued, you'll be sad. Especially if it's a universal style. What I mean by that is a pair that you can dress up or down. These babies are my favorite. The butt pockets are positioned just right to give you a nice tush because they are a little closer together. Plus the wider waistband is more flattering. I have them in a couple of shades. Normally, I am not a fan of junior's jeans because they ride so low but these are great! 

Angel Jeans - Kohl's $40

2. The Perfect LBD
I am a HUGE fan of Victoria's Secret for clothing, dresses in particular. They just fit me really well. This is my newest purchase. I can dress it up with heels or wear it with boots for work. It's simple but sexy. Fitted, but the ruching is flattering so that you don't feel like you have to suck it in all day.

Victoria's Secret - Ruched Cotton Sweaterdress $49.50

3. Leather (or pleather) Jacket
You can wear it with jeans and look bad ass or throw it over a dress for a sexy look for a night out. I say go tailored and not trendy. Biker but not Hell's Angels.

RD Style Pleather Jacket - $59 at www.bluefly.com

4. White Blouse
Nothing looks more classic or pulled together than a white blouse with dress pants or even jeans. It's simple, classic and easy to do. Just make sure it fits well.  Busting out of it is not classy.

5. Good Bra
Nothing makes your clothes fit or look better than a good bra. Go and get fitted. Most women are not wearing the right size. Hoist the girls up a little too. It will instantly make you look slimmer.

6. Black Dress Pants
Go for a wide waistband, it's more flattering. Especially if you have any mommy pooch. No pleats. Repeat after me, "pleats are BAD".  Choose a little bit of a wider leg. Something that drops straight down off the bum.

7. Brown Western Style Leather Boots
Wear them with jeans, leggings, dresses and skirts. I like them to look a little beat up too. 

Nickels Raven Cognac Boots - $69.99 Famous Footwear

8. Nude High Heels
You can wear nude high heels with almost anything. Notice I said "almost".  Wearing a nude heel makes your legs look longer because you are not cutting your leg off with a drastic change in color. Pick a tone close to your skin color and go for a simple pump that works with more clothing choices. I am a big fan of Jessica Simpson's shoe line. Many times you can find them at TJ Maxx a lot cheaper.

Jessica Simpson Calie Pump - $69.00 www.shoes.com

9. Red High Heels
Sexy, sexy, sexy. A pop of red with a black dress or black pants is perfect. It's unexpected and timeless. 

10. Pashmina/Scarf
I love pashminas. I must have them in at least 20 colors. You can wear them in the winter with a coat or everyday as an accessory to your outfit. They can be tied a ton of different ways too.  I always choose colors that compliment my skin tone. That way if I want to wear an outfit that might not be my best color, I can add a coordinating pashmina that flatters my skin tone more.

For me, all of these items complete my wardrobe from season to season. They are classic pieces that I can mix with the trendier styles that come and go. I'd love to hear what you can't live without. Feel free to comment here or on my Facebook page!
Have a beautiful weekend!
xo
Bethany

Perky and Pretty! Please Pass Me a Cup of Coffee!

I love coffee. Like, really, really LOVE coffee. I've tried to quit drinking it but I can't. Partly because I love the taste of it but also because I get up at 3:30am everyday to get going for my morning radio show. Trust me, being witty, engaging and "on" at that time of the day is almost impossible without it.

So other than the obvious benefits of coffee...perkiness, defogging of the brain and improving your personal demeanor, coffee has a lot of health benefits too. According to WebMD, coffee can make you less likely to have type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and dementia. And coffee drinkers have fewer cases of certain cancers, heart rhythm problems, and strokes.

But did you know that coffee has beauty benefits too? See...why would you quit coffee?! Seems crazy if you ask me.

Here are my favorite ways to use your morning java to make you gorgeous.

Exfoliate your skin
Remember awhile back I gave you the recipe for making body scrubs? Well instead of salt or sugar you can use coffee too. You can actually just rub ground coffee and rub on your skin and it sloughs off the dead skin. You can also mix it with olive oil if you want to.

Cellulite & thunder thighs are so much cuter when you're an infant

Ever looked at the ingredients in a cellulite "removers"? Caffeine is a main one. Now, I am not saying that rubbing your body with ground coffee is going to miraculously make your cellulite go away but it will improve your circulation, which removes water from the skin and it will make the skin appear firmer. It's a temporary fix but who cares. It's easy enough to do.

What you need:
1/2 cup ground coffee
1/4 brown sugar
Olive oil

What you do:
Mix the coffee and brown sugar together in a bowl. What you want to do (preferably in your shower) is rub your problem areas with a coat of olive oil and then rub the coffee and brown sugar mix in a circular motion on top of the olive oil. Rinse off when done. Do this a couple of times to see results. It's not permanent but it does help.

Remove build up for gorgeous hair
I would not do this if you are blonde or have bleached hair. Rub ground coffee all through your hair before you shampoo. It feels really bizarre but it works any product buildup you might have out of your hair. This makes your hair shinier and healthier looking.

More than just the dog is going to want to lick your face...
You are going to want to eat this facial because it smells like a fancy drink from Starbucks. Don't though. Use it to make your skin gorgeous instead. The combo of coffee and cocoa gets rid of dull skin, puffiness and brightens up the eye area. The milk and honey will add moisture to your beautiful skin.

What you need:
2 tbsp freshly ground coffee (or used grinds)
2 tbsp cocoa powder
3 tbsp milk , heavy cream or yogurt
1 tbsp honey

Mmmm...yummy, delicious skin! Just massage it into your skin and then let it dry on your skin for like 15 minutes. Then just rinse it off.

So go and get a good nights' sleep because that is the best, free beauty treatment you can give yourself and then get up tomorrow and enjoy your cup of joe. When you're all perky...go get pretty.

Have a beautiful night!
xo
Bethany