Fun Facts about Turkey

1)Turkey has hundreds beaches and marinas which have the "Blue Flag" (A European award for the best clean water) on the Mediterranean and Aegean.

2) Turkey has more mosques per capita than any other country.

3) Turks eat fresh baked bread with every meal.

4) Although 99% of Turks are Muslim, Turkey has a rich Christian heritage.

5) Most Turks drink 10 or more cups of tea a day.

6) Turkish homes have one room containing all their most beautiful furnishings. They only go in it when special guests arrive.

7) Arranged marriages are very common in Turkey.

8) Three percent of Turkey is in Europe. The other 97% is in Asia. It's the only country in the world that sits on two continents and has been the capital of three great empires, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman for more than 2000 years. (Note: My family has been in Turkey since the late 1400's)

9) Turkish is an agglutinative language, meaning that base words get lots of affixes and suffixes, making them longer and longer. For example, the sentence, "I will be able to come" in Turkish is only one word with lots of endings added to it, gelebilicegim. Supposedly the longest word in Turkish is: Cekoslovakyalilastiramadiklarimizdanmissiniz, meaning, "You are said to be one of those that we couldn't manage to convert to a Czechoslovak."

10) The Turkish word for lion is aslan (Just like the lion in the Narnia movie.)

11) Jelly beans got started as an American form of Turkish Delight.

12) Turkey is bordered by eight countries and three seas.

13) Turks are very hospitable. It's not unusual for a perfect stranger to strike up a conversation with you, then invite you over for tea.

14) There are about 70 million people in Turkey. That's double the population of California.

15) Bob Dylan is of Turkish decent, and Dr. Oz (the Dr. that Oprah has on her show a lot) is Turkish.

16) Turkey is full of amazing Roman ruins.

17) Noah's ark landed on Mr. Ararat, which is in Turkey.

18) The first church ever built (St. Peter's Church in Antioch) is in Turkey. The seven churches mentioned in the book of Revelation, in the Bible are all in Turkey.

19) Turks gave the Dutch their famous tulips.

20) Turks introduced coffee to Europe.

Review - Elf & Guerlain Bronzers

Elf STudio Bronzer in Golden: Since my skintone is NC35 in MAC I think this may be a little too light for me as a bronzer, plus Im not a fan of shimmery bronzers. This one isn't exactly shimmery, but it does give a nice sheen or dewy like effect to the face. I really like using it to highlight my cheekbones. It's nicely pigmented and I love the sleek packaging. It's almost identical to the NARS packaging.

Guerlain - Terracotta Light 01 Blondes: This bronzer is definitely on the pricier side at $50. I absolutly love it though! As I've said before, Im not a fan of shimmery bronzers, but the shimmers in this are so finely milled that when you blend it out it just gives you the most perfect, natural and healthy glow. I can even apply this on my bare face and it gives just the right amount of color and coverage. Although, when I get a little tanner in the summer time I don't think it will be dark enough. As of now on my NC35 skintone it works and looks beautiful. Since it's so expensive, I plan on looking for a dupe. Maybe something by Physicians Formula.

Great 10 Under $10 Finds

Here are some picks that you can't go wrong on...even if you end up hating some of them, you hardly spent any money. Most of these are even under the $5 mark :)

Rosebud Salve: There's a reason why celebrities use this stuff. It's awesome and it really works well for moisturizing. It gives your lips a nice sheen without feeling tacky, sticky or goopy and it has many uses. It says you can use it on your cuticles and even blemishes. Although I wouldn't try that. I got mine at Sephora for around $6 and their's 22G of product in there.

Goodys Spin Pins: These are a must for long hair! I use them when I pile my hair on top of my head for bed, when I want to do a cute side bun and to put my hair up at the gym because it holds better than a ponytail holder. Works even better than the ones with the rubber grips on them.

Red Cherry Lashes: I buy mine off of eBay for about $2.50 including shipping. These are really good lashes that easily last me 8 to 10 uses without falling apart or looking funky (I don't put mascara on them). They also have a huge selection so you can find just the style your looking for.

Wet n' Wild Shadows & Bronzer: I'm so impressed with Wet n' Wild cosmetics. Their shadows are so pigmented! I can honestly say that they make the best matte shadows I've ever used, they don't crease and they blend like a dream. This princess bronzer is also a super pigmented matte and I've been using it a lot lately. I like that its natural looking and not that orange/red you see a lot of in other low end bronzers.

Hard Candy Shadow stick: You can use it as an all over shadow stick and it doesn't crease if you apply a thin layer and blend it out. I would say it's similar to MAC's shadestick. I mainly use this on my bottom lash line and then apply a similar shadow over it to set it.

Prestige Waterproof Liner: Soft, creamy and jet black,I love this liner for my waterline. I find that the waterproof formula lasts longer than a regular liner.

Neutrogena Makeup Remover: THE best eye makeup remover hands down! I had one by Lancome and it sucked. This one is almost identical to the Clinique makeup remover. It gets all the shadow and liner off in one swipe. For mascara removal, I just hold a cotton ball over it for a few seconds. I also love using this remover on a q-tip to take off my false lashes. They practially fall right off with this stuff.

Powder Brush: I got this super soft brush from walmart for about $5. I use it to apply bronzer all over my face and neck, it doesn't shed and it picks up a good amount of powder.

Monistat Chafing Gel: This might look a little weird to those who don't know about this multi tasking product lol. Well, I like to use this as a face primer from time to time. They main ingredients are very similar to those in Smashbox's Photo Finish primer. Marlena from Makeupgeek.com has videos about this on youtube.

M∙A∙C Flighty Collection - Info

M∙A∙C Flighty Collection - INFORMATION...

A high-altitude collection of sensually spongy watercolour whipped mousse cream shadows. Soar sky-high with a flock of sixteen Free As Air shades that Up The Ante for formula innovation in luminescent washes that build from sheer to medium easily.


In Stores: April 28, 2011
PRO Discount Available


*********************

Big Bounce Shadows
Eyes are fresh and luminescent with beautiful sheen washes of vibrant color using new Flighty Eye Shadows. This spongy, mousse-like eye shadow is lightweight, lasts for hours, and imparts a cooling sensation upon application.
5 g, US $16.50




The Cool Elite - White w/ silver pearl
Good Fortune - Soft pink yellow w/ pink & silver pearl
Trophy - Soft peach w/ pearl
Impeccably Rich - Light cream w/ gold pearl
Up the Ante! - Rich copper w/ gold & silver pearl
Reward Yourself - Bright peach coral w/ gold pearl
Free As Air - Sky blue w/ silver pearl
Spread the Wealth - Dirty olive w/ gold pearl
Extra Charged - Bright green w/ multi color pearl
Sizzlin’ Diva - Copper w/ gold pearl
Rich Thrills - Dirty silver w/ multi color pearl
Luxury Touch - Violet w/ gold pearl
Count Your Assets - Rich blue purple w/ multi color pearl
My Next Indulgence - Forest green w/ blue & gold pearl
Rich, Sweet - Chocolate gold w/ gold pearl
Black Diamond - Black w/ gold pearl

Zoom Lash Mascara
Major drama. Lasts all day. Creamy, velvety formula builds density and conditions. Feels light, supple. Ultra-sculpted brush has three-sided fibres to embrace and separate each lash, hugging every curve. Coats in one stroke from root to tip. No smudging.
8 g, US$14.00


High Esteem - Mid tone grey with silver pearl
Blue Charge - Deep navy blue
Plum Reserve - Light violet purple
Green is Green - Jade green

242 Shader Brush
For powder, concealer or emollient-based product application. This brush has firm fibers carefully shaped to form a rounded edge for a smooth, even finish. M·A·C professional brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials. They feature wood handles and nickel-plated brass ferrules.
16 cm US$24.50





(Info and Images are from thefancyface.blogspot.com)

Are you guys getting anything from this collection?

OOTD - Spring Dress

I went to forever21 the other day looking for some cute spring/summer dresses. Preferably a strapless style so when Im outdoors I won't have to worry about tan lines. I picked this one up for $19.50

Wedges from Guess

Got My Fedora

So You guys know how I was on a mission to find a Fedora that would fit my big head lol. I didn't even realize I had a bid head till I went hat shopping. I ended up getting this one from Burlingtons.

(excuse the messy room, I was doing some spring cleaning earlier)

I wouldn't wear the shirt I have on out with this hat because I don't think it goes. I was getting ready to go out that night and was already dressed so I just threw the hat on for pictures. I'm going to have that "going out" post coming up.

Artist? Who knew?

Jason and I decided to do something a little different on Saturday night than our usual club outing...and because we went to the club Friday night lol. We went to Rembrandt and did a painting session.

I've painted before in college so I already had some experience with it, but it was Jason's first time. Even though I had to practically drag him there, he ended up have a really good time and said he would do it again :)

Maybe it was the wine talking lol, we drank a whole bottle while we were there.

If you guys never tried it before, I would highly recommend it. It can be pretty pricy, ($40 a person) but I found a deal on yollar.com and only payed $28 for 2 people. They also have similar deals on livingsocial.com. The instructors were very helpful and walked around the whole time making sure everyone was ok. They offered tips and and brought us more supplies as needed.

Jason's got that glazed look in his eyes. I think he was slightly drunk lol

Overall, we had a great time and I can't wait to go back. Have you guys ever been to one of these painting workshops before?

Fancy Pants =P

Sometimes I like to stop in at the World Market and pick up some foreign goodies, makes me feel closer to home you know? lol. I got some cherry jams, chocolate waffers, bruschettas, etc, but my favorite thing is the Hazulnut cream spread. Nutella has nothing on this one, It's from the Czech Republic and it's amazing! I love it on wheat toast in the morning. Some of this stuff was reduced too, love finding bargains :)

What are some of your foreign favorites?

Face and Body Goodies

I picked up some stuff today at Walmart. I had a $3 off coupon for the Nivea body wash and the wash was on sale for $3 so it was totally free! Love when that happens :). I have pretty dry skin and this is the cream oil one so im sure it will be good. (Tip: you do NOT want to use a cream oil type body wash when you spray tan or self tan, it will make it horribly splotchy).

Also, I've heard pretty good things about the Neutrogena Redness Soothing Cleanser so I'm excited to try it out. I heard it was comparable to Clinique's Redness Solutions line. I picked up a bottle of Witch Hazel too, I never use an astringent but I thought I would give this one a try. Kandee Johnson on youtube had a video about mixing this with some extra virgin olive oil and using it as an eye makeup remover. And last but not least, Vaseline Total Moisture body lotion. I had a $2 off coupon and this was on sale too so I payed about $4 for it :).

What are some of your favorite lotions and cleansers?

Earth Day Freebies and Giveaways

Hi girls, I just wanted to share the following info with my readers:

* Origins is offering a trade-in program on Earth Day. Receive a free full-size face cleanser when you bring one of your empty skin-care bottles (everything from bottles, tubes, jars, deodorant sticks and compacts regardless of the brand to any Origins store) or department-store counter for recycling. Choose from A Perfect World Antioxidant Cleanser With White Tea or Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash.

* Lowe's is giving away one million trees on April 23.

* Drugstore.com is giving up to 60% off on green and natural products through April 22.

* At participating Starbucks, you can bring in a reusable mug on April 22 to get free brewed coffee or tea.

* You can get free admission to 394 National Parks through 4/24

* You can get a Free EVOS Organic Shake nationwide.

* Trade 5 plastic shopping bags to recycle at Disney Stores and you will receive a FREE Mickey Tote.

Paul Mitchell - The Miracle Worker

I have SUPER thick coarse and curly hair. So coarse that hair stylists couldn't even get my hair straight. For years I used to use the CHI flat iron thinking it was the best it was ever going to get for me. Then one day I went to a hair stylist that used a Paul Mitchell flat iron on me. At first I was thinking it was more the blow dryer she used than anything that gave me those awesome results because she managed to get my hair pretty straight just by blow drying. Which I've never seen happen before. Well to make a long story short, my friend got a Paul Mitchell and raved about it and basically said it would change my life lol.

Here's the PM iron in all it's glory lol. I keep the heat set to 380 degrees but it goes up to 400. I know it seems like a bit much, but my hair needs all that heat.

So you guys can get an idea of how thick and curly my hair is, here is a picture of it when I let it air dry with gel, mousse and hairspray

This is what it looks like when I just flip my head over and blowdry with a flat vent brush (scary, I know)

When I straighten my hair I have to brush the curl out, so needless to say its a poofy mess. 

That picture doesn't do the actual results any justice so here's a better picture.

And here's an after pic

The only products I put in my hair are these two things. Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum (only a pump and a half) and the Tresemme heat protectant

If anyone has hair like me; thick and hard to manage, but wants silky straight locks then you HAVE to get this. I've never been so impressed by a product like I was with this one. This iron retails for about $200 but I purchased mine on ebay brand new for $115. A total steal, but I would have gladly payed more for this.

Now Im ready to get my dance on with my silky straight hair lol

What flat iron do you guys use?

Trend Alert - Fedora's

Im totally loving the straw fedora's I'm seeing everywhere lately. I just wish I were a hat person so I could pull it off. I've been on a quest to find one that works for me. Here are some good ones.

Amazon had some great ones to choose from. Check out this one for only $7.50

Here's the link to it.
http://www.amazon.com/Woven-fedora-straw-unisex-white/dp/B004TIVK8U/ref=sr_1_301?s=apparel&qlEnable=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1303144743&sr=1-301

Top 10 Makeup Must Haves

I wanted to put together a list of my go-to products. When I go away on vacation for the weekend or just when I want to look pulled together, these are the products I always reach for.

*Maybelline Super Stay: This foundation is great because it's full coverage but you can also sheer it out by mixing it with some moisturizer.

*MAC Prep and Prime: By far my most favorite setting powder. You only need a tiny bit and it photographs beautifully.

*Bare Essentuals Buxom Lash Liner: Super Creamy and stays put all day. It claims that it's healthy for your lashes and prevents lash fall out. Definitely a plus.

*Neutrogena Lip Shine: I love that this has SPF and it's not sticky or goopy. Smells and tastes good and lasts quite a while for a gloss.

*MAC Wedge Eye Shadow: Perfect for deepening your crease.

*Ardell Brow Powder: If I can only put one thing on my eyes this would be it. Eyebrows are very important and makes a big difference when it comes to framing your face. I hate my brows naturally so this powder makes a huge difference and stays on all day.

*E.L.F Lash Curler: This lash curler is only $1 and holds my curl. Best $1 ever spent :)

*Maybelline Full n' Soft Mascara: Full and soft lashes are it's claim and it delivers. Doesn't flake or smudge and is buildable. MY favorite drugstore mascara so far.

*MAC Ricepaper: I love this for a lid or brow highlight. It works really well on my yellow/olive complection.

*MAC Pink Swoon Blush: A perfect pink, works well when im tanned and can be applied lightly in those winter months when im not.

New Vanity Lighting, Yaaay!!

I was in desperate need of some lighting in my "makeup room". I only had one light bulb in the entire room and a small window that barely got any sunlight. I mainly had to rely on my makeup mirror light which wasn't all that great. After much searching I found this!

I got this as Home Depot for about $27.00 I wasn't sure about it at first because I was looking for a floor tree lamp like this (below).

I couldn't find the one I was looking for so I bought the desk light on a whim. I'm glad I did! I didn't attach the glass shades around it because I thought it made it look too much light a spot light and I wanted a more diffused light. It works really well and it's super bright, it uses 2 G9 halogen bulbs which should last me a while since I would only use it when Im applying makeup.

Swedish Skin - Delivery

I ordered some skin care products from Swedish Skin on monday and I just recieved my package today. Shipping was super fast, only took 4 days to recieve. It came simply packaged but in good shape. Besides, with their buy 1 get 2 free promotion they were having, I couldn't care less how it was packaged as long as it came in one piece lol.

I got the apple rejuvenating serum and the apple rejuvenating cream. I'm so excited to try this stuff out. I hope it's as good as everyone says. I'll share my thoughts on it after I use it for a while.