Today I had to battle my inner self. There are sometimes in my life when I debate between the way I see things and the way they actually are. Today, I had a full on boxing match with myself and am still not sure what to think of it all. I guess it' all a matter of opinion and feeling. All I know is that my feelings got hurt and I approached the situation the only way that I knew how.
Everyday I give advice, share my opinion, listen to your stories, your worries and your concerns and try my best to lead you into the direction that is right for you. Today I have my toughest client...myself.
Setting boundaries is a difficult situation. When are they appropriate and when do they create chaos? What situation constitutes the need for one? How do you set one? Sometimes the people that are hardest to approach are those who mean the most. I had a feeling of inner conflict. I was confused, angry, hurt and I knew that it would only escalate. I also knew that it was a delicate situation requiring a delicate approach. For those who know me understand that my approach is rarely delicate. This was going to be difficult and took careful consideration because the last thing that I want is to hurt or offend a loved one.
I approached it with angst and am left feeling worse with a sense of relief. Relieved that I had the courage to stand up for what I love. Worse because now two of us hurt.
The lesson that I can take away from all of this is that the truth may not be the easiest route but it is the most direct. As my friend Laura taught me in Hawaii, it's never easy but it is that simple. If I can't be honest with myself, who can I be honest with. I had to evaluate what I would accept and what I wouldn't. It was hard...and it still is. But to be vulnerable enough to share my feelings and fears without hesitation is a reflection of growth. Today I learned a hard lesson and can face tomorrow with a new perspective.
Night,
Cyn
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
VOGUE Stylist App for your IPhone
There are three main sections and the best part is, it's free! You have the Stylist section that will help you pair your current pieces with new styles plus give you access to VOGUE's monthly trends. You can create a virtual closet in the Wardrobe section with your current pieces and save any that are featured. You can also Shop with their advertisers or locate a store.
They offer special discounts, product samples and event invitations. This is perfect for all of you "fashionistas" out there!
Download it through the link below:
VOGUE Stylist App
***Photo and information on VOGUE Stylist are from Apple.com.
Monday, February 22, 2010
You Asked, I Answered: Responses To My Readers Inquiries
I have had numerous inquiries on different subjects and I wanted to share some of them with you. I have included the blog posts that prompted these questions next to their name when applicable.
Tracy and Nicole asked: What skin care regimens do you recommend?
Mitch asked (Not Buying Organic...): "Where would blackberries & raspberries land on your list? I eat them a lot. I know that Trader Joe's carries both organic & non-organic blackberries".
Bertie asked (Addressing Adultery): You bring up some good points…I’m curious to know what you would advise in my situation. I think my boyfriend could be having an affair, but I don’t have evidence. It’s more like I have a “gut feeling.” Should I confront him with my suspicions, or see about hiring a private investigator?
Tracy and Nicole asked: What skin care regimens do you recommend?
- Cyn: Skin care is a very personal choice and everyone's skin will react differently to various lines. I do recommend that you read all labels and avoid the toxins on this list: Top 10 Cosmetic Toxins to Avoid. There are some products that I absolutely love and have achieved great results with but I am finding that they are really toxic. I am in the process of getting more information from Jen, my esthetician, on safe products that work.
- Cyn: I think they are only for those who are really, really hot. The wrong body type could rip this up and not in a good way! Check out this link: http://www.thefashionpolice.net/2009/01/jeggings.html
Mitch asked (Not Buying Organic...): "Where would blackberries & raspberries land on your list? I eat them a lot. I know that Trader Joe's carries both organic & non-organic blackberries".
- Cyn: I always go organic on berries. They just taste better. They are more expensive and go bad quickly so keep that in mind when shopping. What ever smells the best, is the best.
Bertie asked (Addressing Adultery): You bring up some good points…I’m curious to know what you would advise in my situation. I think my boyfriend could be having an affair, but I don’t have evidence. It’s more like I have a “gut feeling.” Should I confront him with my suspicions, or see about hiring a private investigator?
- Cyn: Thank you for reading; I appreciate your support. In response to your inquiry, every situation is different and take ANY given advice with a grain of salt. You will always be the best judge and the only true trusted adviser as you are the one on the front lines. There is something to be said about personal instinct. Intuition can be a very powerful tool so if you feel something is not right, maybe it isn’t. The way you choose to approach the situation is a personal decision weighing in multiple factors. Be honest with yourself and an answer will become clear.
- Cyn: My response to this is basic. If you eat a balanced, healthy diet with home cooked meals made from natural ingredients and get plenty of exercise, your body will take care of itself. The American culture has adapted really poor eating habits causing death, disease and health issues of all calibers. More people are obese and diabetic than ever before and "solutions" are cropping up everywhere. Be cautious of these "solutions" and consider the real issue. Get back to basics without the chemicals, starvation and weird chalky drinks. Here is a great link to help anyone get on track: http://www.helpguide.org/life/healthy_eating_diet.htm Please see the book suggestions below. They are excellent!
- Cyn: What many of you don't know about me is that I was in early childcare and a nanny for many, many years. I understand time restrictions, tantrums and limited choices. We have to remember that little one's need to develop their tastes for flavor just as we develop tastes for new foods or wine. Introduce a new ingredient into their diet weekly. Be careful when seeking recipes online and make sure to always monitor the ingrediants on any label of anything that you give them. Many of these recipes call for canned or boxed goods. Avoid those and any other pre-made foods or processed cheeses. A great rule of thumb is from Author Michael Pollan. Rule #19-If it came from a plant, eat it; if it was made in a plant, don't. Read his books and you will find great rules to live by and help create yummy meals for kids. Here are two great articles about his book Food Rules: An Eater's Manual and others that he has written. http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/news/20090323/7-rules-for-eating
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/michael-pollan/food-rules-a-completely-d_b_410173.html
***For specific recipes, email me at sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Not Buying Organic? 15 Choices To Consider 12 To Avoid
The Clean Team: These are examples of conventional produce with the least amount of pesticide residue.
- Broccoli
- Cabbages
- Avocado
- Papaya
- Mango
- Frozen Sweet Corn
- Frozen Sweet Peas
- Pineapples
- Onions
- Kiwi
- Asparagus
- Bananas
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
- Sweet Potatoes
A Dirty Bunch: These are examples of items that soak up the most pesticides. Buy organic when possible for the following items.
- Peaches
- Apples
- Sweet Bell Peppers
- Celery
- Nectarines
- Strawberries
- Cherries
- Pears
- Grapes (Imported)
- Spinach
- Lettuce
- Potatoes
***For extra sugar, find a CSA in your area!
- Finding these items in your area is just a click away. Search for Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) in your area to learn how to get these items and others. I prefer the Local Harvest website to find farms in any area. You simply enter your zip code or state and a list is generated.
- I also found a local Bay Area organic CSA that delivers to your door. It is called Farm Fresh To You. They have 6,000 families participating in their farm and are one of many options to get organic products from local farmers.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
I Love Curls, Curls, Curls, Curls...Curls I Do Adore!
Curly Hair: For getting the best curl, use Bumble and Bumble's Holding Foam and let air dry. After it's dry, scrunch your hands into it and it becomes soft put together curls...I love it on my curly haired clients to keep their curls from looking frizzy.
The best product I would recommend to straighten curls would be Kerastase's Oleo Slim creme. A very little bit goes a long way. It helps the hair collapse a little so it's not huge when you get it blown out. I would also suggest using Nectar Thermique from Kerastase to protect your hair from thermal heat damage (plus it smells AWESOME). You apply it to damp hair then dry aiming the airflow from the root down to the ends. It helps seal the cuticle of the hair and keeps it from looking frizzy. I would flat iron it afterward to get the ultimate shiny straight haired look.
Tips written by Christina Keenan of 1688 A Hair Studio in Walnut Creek, California. Follow her on Twitter! christyrocks6
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Rockin' Accessories : Trends for Spring 2010
What's hot for Spring 2010? Rockin' Accessories!
Big and Bold: Designers are using semi-precious stones and crystals to create pieces that speak volumes. Lanvin is the best example of what we can expect this spring with their Vendome Breastplate and matching ring. Get the look for less: Hollywood Intuition Frosted Bracelet - Rhinestone/Gold (right) from Target or the Ondine Bracelet (left) from Banana Republic.
Heavy Metal: Studs, metallic, chains and tassels. If it is shining, you will find it this season. Shoes, handbags, dresses, necklaces and earrings are all bedazzled in metal. Get the look for less: Rock N Roll Hobo (right) by Jessica Simpson.
Neon: Louis Vuitton started this craze when they introduced Marc Jacobs' handbag and shoe designs that were screaming neon in late 2008. This is not my favorite part of the spring line-up; however, everybody's doing it. Get the look for less: The Miles Spectral-Print Crossbody Bag by L.A.M.B. Saks Fifth Avenue
Platforms, Wedges and Embellishments: Need a lift? This is your season! Lots and lots of wedges and platforms. You will see ruffles, studs and embellishments everywhere. When it comes to a sexy shoe, Christian Louboutin is a must have. Get the look for less: Double Buckle Platform Sandal by Fergie at Victoria's Secret.
Ruffles, Sheer and Lace: This is the season of the hopeless romantics. Shimmery, sexy and shiny flowing freely in the spring air. Textures and textiles alike this season's looks are gorgeous.
Big and Bold: Designers are using semi-precious stones and crystals to create pieces that speak volumes. Lanvin is the best example of what we can expect this spring with their Vendome Breastplate and matching ring. Get the look for less: Hollywood Intuition Frosted Bracelet - Rhinestone/Gold (right) from Target or the Ondine Bracelet (left) from Banana Republic.Heavy Metal: Studs, metallic, chains and tassels. If it is shining, you will find it this season. Shoes, handbags, dresses, necklaces and earrings are all bedazzled in metal. Get the look for less: Rock N Roll Hobo (right) by Jessica Simpson. Neon: Louis Vuitton started this craze when they introduced Marc Jacobs' handbag and shoe designs that were screaming neon in late 2008. This is not my favorite part of the spring line-up; however, everybody's doing it. Get the look for less: The Miles Spectral-Print Crossbody Bag by L.A.M.B. Saks Fifth Avenue
Ruffles, Sheer and Lace: This is the season of the hopeless romantics. Shimmery, sexy and shiny flowing freely in the spring air. Textures and textiles alike this season's looks are gorgeous.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Meet Christina! Sugar Lips Lifestyle Tips Expert Stylist
The search is over! I've scouered the East Bay for the perfect stylist and found Christina Keenan of 1688 A Hair Studio in downtown Walnut Creek. Christina has experience with numerous products and has recently trained with industry's top professionals at The House of Bumble in West Village Manhattan. Christina is a visionary always on the forefront of new trends with an amazing eye for color and an in depth knowledge of skin tones. She can match anyone with the perfect hair color, give a great hair cut or an up-do for any occasion. She has taught me numerous styling tricks and ways to keep that salon look long after I have left her chair.
As our expert Stylist, she will be providing us with tips and trends keeping us on the cutting edge of this ever evolving industry. She will answer your questions and give recommendations so feel free to reach out to her or send inquiries to me at sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com or go to www.sugarlipslifestyletips.com to read her full bio and contact information.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Best Find: Victoria's Secret VS Make-up Line With Application Tips!
Thanks to lessons from my good friend and make-up artist, Chantelle, I have been working tirelessly trying to perfect different make-up looks for different occasions and trying to step out of my comfort zone. We have had live demos and practice sessions learning the tricks of the trade. I have been doing additional product demos and sampling different lines and recently came across the new VS make-up line by Victoria's Secret. It has everything that you could want to create a professional look with out spending a ton of money. Everything is $8-$16. Amazing! Here are a few of my favorites.
PRO Radiant FX Face Illuminator: The secret to stars like J-Lo and Jessica Alba's glowing complexions is a liquid luminizer. VS has created this luminizer to give you a soft, sexy picture perfect glow.
Brilliant Shimmer Shadow: Sheer for a sexy shimmer or layered for extra drama, this loose shimmer shadow powder has great blend-ability and is perfectly priced at $10. I love silverdust best!
My favorite feature are my eyebrows. I have them waxed and shaped bi-monthly to maintain a great frame for my eyes. The PRO Brow FX Grooming Gel is the perfect way to keep your brows tame. Not just for the unruly this product will help you keep your brows perfectly shaped all day. $8
You can find all of these products on their website: www.victoriassecret.com Pictures and product information from www.victoriassecret.com
- Application Tip: Just apply a little wherever the sun would naturally reflect; your cheek bones, collarbone, jawline and forehead for the perfect shimmer. ***Don't forget to wear sunscreen underneath with this or any luminizer. The reflective particles can attract the sun and expedite the coloring of your skin. $14
Brilliant Shimmer Shadow: Sheer for a sexy shimmer or layered for extra drama, this loose shimmer shadow powder has great blend-ability and is perfectly priced at $10. I love silverdust best!
- Application Tip: For a sexy shimmery eye, apply the brow highlight first just along the brow bone. Blend a light shadow all over the eyelid and a medium shade in the crease. Starting at the outside corner of the lid, blend with your eyeshadow brush back and forth in the crease. For a finishing touch, add the darker shadow to the outer corner of the lid and lash line. Blend to create a smokey, sultry eye.
My favorite feature are my eyebrows. I have them waxed and shaped bi-monthly to maintain a great frame for my eyes. The PRO Brow FX Grooming Gel is the perfect way to keep your brows tame. Not just for the unruly this product will help you keep your brows perfectly shaped all day. $8- Application Tip: When you have completed your eye make-up and applied your brow powder (if applicable), apply gel as you would mascara. Gently remove any access from your brush prior to the application to avoid access.
You can find all of these products on their website: www.victoriassecret.com Pictures and product information from www.victoriassecret.com
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Finding Your Signature Scent: Sexy Perfumes for Valentine's Day
There is nothing sexier than a signature scent. What essences do others associate with you? What is your classic go-to scent? We have all experienced that moment when a stranger walks by you and their scent sparks a memory of someone familiar. As it moves through your olfactory system, your brain triggers memories and emotions connected with the last time you experienced that smell. What scent triggers memories and emotions for those around you?
Finding a perfume that defines you may take a little shopping around, sampling and testing. Finding the right fragrance for different occasions is part of creating your brand and defining your personal style. I prefer to have various bottles to choose from for all of my moods and events. Here are a few of my top picks for my Valentine's Day must have list.
Sensual and Flirtatious! Parisienne by Yves Saint Laurent: This scent is sweet, sexy and soft with a hint of flare. Think romantic bubble bath sprinkled with rose petals surrounded by candlelight. It has tones of blackberry, damask rose and sandalwood all of which are perfect for a flirty night out on the town or a sensual night in. Photo from YSL
Seductive and Sassy! Prada's L'Eau Ambree I am in love with this sultry scent! Strong and seductive completely defining femininity. Step out in a pair of five inch heels and strut your stuff! This scent is for the strong, confident woman with Prada's signature amber tones, citrus, and rose. Photo from Sephora.com
Classically Beautiful: Chanel No. 5 This classic scent is a legend in it's own right. Created for women who are savvy, subtly sexy, and refined. It defines elegance, luxury and style. Photo from Chanel.com
With today's resources, finding a fragrance that is right for you is easy. Sales professionals at Sephora can make you a small spray sample of any one of their perfumes for you to take home and try. You can also ask for samples at most perfume counters or find them online.
Also remember not to limit yourself to perfume. Your collection can consist of lotions or body sprays as well. Start defining yourself today with a signature scent that expresses your inner being without saying a word.
Finding a perfume that defines you may take a little shopping around, sampling and testing. Finding the right fragrance for different occasions is part of creating your brand and defining your personal style. I prefer to have various bottles to choose from for all of my moods and events. Here are a few of my top picks for my Valentine's Day must have list.
Sensual and Flirtatious! Parisienne by Yves Saint Laurent: This scent is sweet, sexy and soft with a hint of flare. Think romantic bubble bath sprinkled with rose petals surrounded by candlelight. It has tones of blackberry, damask rose and sandalwood all of which are perfect for a flirty night out on the town or a sensual night in. Photo from YSL
Seductive and Sassy! Prada's L'Eau Ambree I am in love with this sultry scent! Strong and seductive completely defining femininity. Step out in a pair of five inch heels and strut your stuff! This scent is for the strong, confident woman with Prada's signature amber tones, citrus, and rose. Photo from Sephora.com
Classically Beautiful: Chanel No. 5 This classic scent is a legend in it's own right. Created for women who are savvy, subtly sexy, and refined. It defines elegance, luxury and style. Photo from Chanel.com
With today's resources, finding a fragrance that is right for you is easy. Sales professionals at Sephora can make you a small spray sample of any one of their perfumes for you to take home and try. You can also ask for samples at most perfume counters or find them online.
Also remember not to limit yourself to perfume. Your collection can consist of lotions or body sprays as well. Start defining yourself today with a signature scent that expresses your inner being without saying a word.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Want Kissable Lips For Valentine's Day? Here's How!
I LOVE the weeks leading up to Valentines Day. Everything is red and pink with yummy chocolates everywhere. Pretty black lace and flowers in every window. It is better than Christmas! Here are some tips on perfecting your pucker for the perfect kiss.
Lip Tint: This is my new favorite: C*O*Bigelow's Mentha Lip Tint. With natural peppermint oil, it leaves your lips and breath fresh. It has a hint of color and shine and is the perfect purse staple for any occasion. (photo from www.bathandbodyworks.com) ***Don't apply before drinking wine, it will goof up your palate and everything will smell and taste of mint.
Lip Exfoliator: This DIY system is quick, easy and completely affordable. Combine superfine sugar, honey, peppermint oil (or any other preferred oil) and a small squeeze of lemon. Stir into a paste and gently rub on lips removing any dead skin. Rinse, pat dry and follow with your favorite balm or tint.
Red Lips! This is a must! There is nothing sexier than seriously red lips. I love Dior's Holiday Red Liner with Dior Addict Ultra Gloss Reflect in Red Stockings. Clinique High Impact Lip Color makes a lasting impression as well. (photo from Clinique.com)***Caution! Making out with red lipstick may just lead to a seriously red face...for both of you!
Smooches,
Cyn
Lip Exfoliator: This DIY system is quick, easy and completely affordable. Combine superfine sugar, honey, peppermint oil (or any other preferred oil) and a small squeeze of lemon. Stir into a paste and gently rub on lips removing any dead skin. Rinse, pat dry and follow with your favorite balm or tint.
Moooauuuh!
Smooches,
Cyn
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Oh Snap! Swimsuit Season is Around the Corner- Are you ready?
I was reminiscing about our life in Hawaii and the thought of trying to hoist into a swimsuit right now is a nightmare. Pale with some added holiday baggage-C'mon! Can you say SPRAY TAN stat? Maybe extra tan to make me appear taller and thinner? Anyone? Today is February 4th...we are six weeks away from spring break trips, cruises, island hopping, sun soaking. Reality is setting in quickly and I need to get on the ball.
Many of my friends are making great strides towards their swimsuit bods and I will be joining them in their efforts very soon. I am a realist and a foodie who loves wine on a regular basis. It is critical for me to enjoy every moment of my dining experience even when it's on the go. It is easy to make good decisions once you know what to do. Here are a few quick tips that have always proved successful this time of year when trying to shed the winter "puff" pounds.
Discipline: Decide that you are going to do it. Your mind is the most powerful tool that you have; use it to your advantage. Write a note and put it on your mirror to read every morning when you wake and at night before going to bed. Remind yourself that you are beautiful and strong and this is a small step towards a greater purpose.
Activity: Increase your daily activity by 20 minutes to an hour. It is that easy. Take 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes at night or designate a certain time of day. Use 20 minutes of your lunch hour to walk around.
Eat your way thin: The choices you make will dramatically improve your results. Limit white flour and white sugar. Don't eat prepackage food. Stop chewing gum, eating candy, drinking pop (yes, this includes diet), coffee drinks and fast food. I understand that Jared was a success story for Subway but my hopeful intent is to motivate you to eat something better that preserved meat with high levels of sodium, processed cheese with saturated fat spread on some crappy white bun. Oh, it has vegetables you say? Hmmm. You can do better than that I know it.
Use your resources: We are so savvy. Download an App for your IPhone and log your daily progress or count your calories. Go to the Eat This Not That website and play their game. It is so much fun and will teach you better choices. Update your friends and family on Facebook / Twitter etc. to keep the support going. Check out My Plate on the Live Strong Website to see your results. You will be amazed at the outcome.
Battle the late night munchies: Make sure that you are eating enough dinner at a decent hour and going to bed before you get hungry again. For example, if you get off work at 6pm and go to bed at 11pm plan to eat around 7:30pm. If you think that you are hungry, often times we are just thirsty. Down a big glass of water or two. And for crying out loud don't watch the food network at night!
REMEMBER: Tighten the reins. Eat when you are hungry. Stop grazing / snacking out of boredom. Stop obsessing over it you will make yourself hungry. Drink water throughout the day (I take my body weight, divide it in half and try to drink that many ounces). Ask yourself this question before making a poor decision: Is this worth wasting my calories on? if it is, go for it. If it isn't, step away!
Items that are deceiving:
Dairy: Are you tolerant of dairy products? Many are not but eat them anyway causing digestion problems.
Yogurt: Read the label. Do not buy it if it has modified ingredients. Brown Cow is a great brand. I also Like Fage greek yogurt.
Baked Chips and Pretzels: Baked Lays are loaded with crap. See their label. Pretzels have hydrogenated oils, white flour and are empty calories that spike insulin levels making you even hungrier and crave more junk.
100 calorie snacks: Let's be serious here. If you are hungry, this little package of air puffed chemicals will not satisfy you. Choose an apple with peanut or almond butter.
Peanut Butter: Choosy Cynner's don't choose Jif. Why? Again, hydrogenated oils. Try Adams or another brand that reads: Peanuts on the label.
If any of you have additional questions, please feel free to email me at sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com. You can also find me on Facebook (www.sugarlipslifestyletips.com) or Twitter (sugardollies).
Many of my friends are making great strides towards their swimsuit bods and I will be joining them in their efforts very soon. I am a realist and a foodie who loves wine on a regular basis. It is critical for me to enjoy every moment of my dining experience even when it's on the go. It is easy to make good decisions once you know what to do. Here are a few quick tips that have always proved successful this time of year when trying to shed the winter "puff" pounds.
Discipline: Decide that you are going to do it. Your mind is the most powerful tool that you have; use it to your advantage. Write a note and put it on your mirror to read every morning when you wake and at night before going to bed. Remind yourself that you are beautiful and strong and this is a small step towards a greater purpose.
Activity: Increase your daily activity by 20 minutes to an hour. It is that easy. Take 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes at night or designate a certain time of day. Use 20 minutes of your lunch hour to walk around.
Eat your way thin: The choices you make will dramatically improve your results. Limit white flour and white sugar. Don't eat prepackage food. Stop chewing gum, eating candy, drinking pop (yes, this includes diet), coffee drinks and fast food. I understand that Jared was a success story for Subway but my hopeful intent is to motivate you to eat something better that preserved meat with high levels of sodium, processed cheese with saturated fat spread on some crappy white bun. Oh, it has vegetables you say? Hmmm. You can do better than that I know it.
Use your resources: We are so savvy. Download an App for your IPhone and log your daily progress or count your calories. Go to the Eat This Not That website and play their game. It is so much fun and will teach you better choices. Update your friends and family on Facebook / Twitter etc. to keep the support going. Check out My Plate on the Live Strong Website to see your results. You will be amazed at the outcome.
Battle the late night munchies: Make sure that you are eating enough dinner at a decent hour and going to bed before you get hungry again. For example, if you get off work at 6pm and go to bed at 11pm plan to eat around 7:30pm. If you think that you are hungry, often times we are just thirsty. Down a big glass of water or two. And for crying out loud don't watch the food network at night!
REMEMBER: Tighten the reins. Eat when you are hungry. Stop grazing / snacking out of boredom. Stop obsessing over it you will make yourself hungry. Drink water throughout the day (I take my body weight, divide it in half and try to drink that many ounces). Ask yourself this question before making a poor decision: Is this worth wasting my calories on? if it is, go for it. If it isn't, step away!
Items that are deceiving:
Dairy: Are you tolerant of dairy products? Many are not but eat them anyway causing digestion problems.
Yogurt: Read the label. Do not buy it if it has modified ingredients. Brown Cow is a great brand. I also Like Fage greek yogurt.
Baked Chips and Pretzels: Baked Lays are loaded with crap. See their label. Pretzels have hydrogenated oils, white flour and are empty calories that spike insulin levels making you even hungrier and crave more junk.
100 calorie snacks: Let's be serious here. If you are hungry, this little package of air puffed chemicals will not satisfy you. Choose an apple with peanut or almond butter.
Peanut Butter: Choosy Cynner's don't choose Jif. Why? Again, hydrogenated oils. Try Adams or another brand that reads: Peanuts on the label.
If any of you have additional questions, please feel free to email me at sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com. You can also find me on Facebook (www.sugarlipslifestyletips.com) or Twitter (sugardollies).
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Creating A Personal Brand: How do you present yourself?
Last November, I posted an article entitled Personal Power Moves: Creating An Enterprise - YOU! Some of you may remember it because I had asked Santa for a Kimora Lee Simmons Barbie Doll. Clearly, I needed a mogul!
Lately, I have been reflecting on creating a personal brand. I feel that all powerful women have a great personal brand. They take great pride in themselves personally and professionally and work very hard at it. So each day, I try to improve one thing about me to better my brand. I understand that change takes time but with each step I am closer to my goal.
This came to fruition after working with a woman who has created a localized brand for herself but has failed to complete the circle. She is known in the community and is well connected. In limited circles, she is considered a fashion forecaster and a trend follower. The problem is that she does not present herself well. Her over all appearance is lacking and frumpy. Imagine how much more powerful she would be if she were a little more polished and pulled together.
Now to some this may sound cruel or rude but the truth is, I am one of many that she presents herself to daily and the feedback is consistent. This example has taught me a great lesson and I started to fear that I too had become lax. Was I that girl? Do people think of me what I think of her? There are definitely days that I get up and just don't care as much as I should. I don't take the few extra minutes that would complete my look and really put my best face forward. Of course the answer to those questions is no, but I am human and still think about it. Fear of frump is a great motivator.
So before I climb into bed for some well needed rest, think about this. How will you create your own brand? How do you present yourself and how could you present yourself better? Are you eating properly, drinking enough water, staying healthy and fit to reduce stress and balance emotions? Are you sleeping enough? When was the last time you invested in yourself? Is it time for a make-over? This can be your face, your closet or even your hair. Whatever it is, create a brand that encompasses you in every way. How can you put your best foot forward?
Lately, I have been reflecting on creating a personal brand. I feel that all powerful women have a great personal brand. They take great pride in themselves personally and professionally and work very hard at it. So each day, I try to improve one thing about me to better my brand. I understand that change takes time but with each step I am closer to my goal.
This came to fruition after working with a woman who has created a localized brand for herself but has failed to complete the circle. She is known in the community and is well connected. In limited circles, she is considered a fashion forecaster and a trend follower. The problem is that she does not present herself well. Her over all appearance is lacking and frumpy. Imagine how much more powerful she would be if she were a little more polished and pulled together.
Now to some this may sound cruel or rude but the truth is, I am one of many that she presents herself to daily and the feedback is consistent. This example has taught me a great lesson and I started to fear that I too had become lax. Was I that girl? Do people think of me what I think of her? There are definitely days that I get up and just don't care as much as I should. I don't take the few extra minutes that would complete my look and really put my best face forward. Of course the answer to those questions is no, but I am human and still think about it. Fear of frump is a great motivator.
So before I climb into bed for some well needed rest, think about this. How will you create your own brand? How do you present yourself and how could you present yourself better? Are you eating properly, drinking enough water, staying healthy and fit to reduce stress and balance emotions? Are you sleeping enough? When was the last time you invested in yourself? Is it time for a make-over? This can be your face, your closet or even your hair. Whatever it is, create a brand that encompasses you in every way. How can you put your best foot forward?
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Beauty Myth Busters! How did you score?
Here are some fun finds on common misconceptions that we have heard over the course of our lives.
You can shrink the size of your pores: Busted! Pore size is genetically predetermined. There are quick fixes that will temporarily reduce the size of your pores giving the illusion of reduction in size. According to Elizabeth McBurney, a clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University School of Medicine, in New Orleans, egg whites can be used to temporarily tighten the skin. (1)
Greasy foods cause acne: Busted! Unless you are smearing them on your face, this is false.
Crossing your legs will create varicose veins: Busted! Standing all day is worse than crossing them. It is harder for your veins to pump the blood back towards the heart. Prevention is key. According to the Mayo Clinic, "improving your circulation and muscle tone can reduce your risk of developing varicose veins". (2) When I was 22, I had a painful vein injected and my doctor told me that another good practice is to kickback and elevate your legs after a long day. So kick back!
Leaving mascara on 24/7 won't hurt my lashes: BU-UUUSSSTED! Please tell me that you all got this one correct. Mascara can clog your lash follicles and cause breakage.
Did you know that some mascara has tar in it? No, I didn't. Because it's not true! BUSTED! The Beauty Bug did some research. Check out what she found out by clicking on her link below. (3)
(3
You can shrink the size of your pores: Busted! Pore size is genetically predetermined. There are quick fixes that will temporarily reduce the size of your pores giving the illusion of reduction in size. According to Elizabeth McBurney, a clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University School of Medicine, in New Orleans, egg whites can be used to temporarily tighten the skin. (1)
Greasy foods cause acne: Busted! Unless you are smearing them on your face, this is false.
Crossing your legs will create varicose veins: Busted! Standing all day is worse than crossing them. It is harder for your veins to pump the blood back towards the heart. Prevention is key. According to the Mayo Clinic, "improving your circulation and muscle tone can reduce your risk of developing varicose veins". (2) When I was 22, I had a painful vein injected and my doctor told me that another good practice is to kickback and elevate your legs after a long day. So kick back!
Leaving mascara on 24/7 won't hurt my lashes: BU-UUUSSSTED! Please tell me that you all got this one correct. Mascara can clog your lash follicles and cause breakage.
Did you know that some mascara has tar in it? No, I didn't. Because it's not true! BUSTED! The Beauty Bug did some research. Check out what she found out by clicking on her link below. (3)
(3
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