Voluspa Creme Candle Collection

Out of all the lovely presents Santa brought me this year, my favorite was the Voluspa Creme Candle gift set. Packaged in a gorgeous maroon and cream patterned box, this delightful collection of glass encased votive candles instantly brought a smile to my face.

I have always seen Voluspa candles in high end bath shops and spas, but for some reason had never purchased them for myself. I'm not sure what I was thinking (or smelling, rather) but these clean burning candles provide a powerful and sensuous fragrance while they burn and long after they flame has gone out.


I am usually highly picky with home scent, particularly with candles, so that is also why I was so surprised that each and every one of the ten scents appealed to me.

The collection contains the best of Voluspa's Creme Collection, including:

Sawara Cypress- currently burning right now- it has an exotic, peppery scent... love it!
Pomegranate & Patchouli- sweet incense... lovely...
Saija Persimmon- heavenly for winter
Grapefruit Mint Cuttings- a great scent for the kitchen...
Honey Orange Blossom- clean and fresh smelling with a touch of sweet...
Casimiroa- an exotic, tropical fruit scent...
Clove Pomander- another wonderful winter delight
Vanilla Jasmine Tabac- the tabac adds a slight masculine edge to the otherwise feminine scent.
Hawaiian Maile Vine- a mysterious, tropical scent
Paheri Mango Leaf- sweet like a mango but with a certain je ne sais quoi...

This sampler set would make a lovely hostess present...

It's also a great way to treat yourself if you want to become familiar with the line...

Whichever way you look at it, Voluspa Creme Candle gift sets are a decadent treat!

For more information about Voluspa candles, please visit: www.voluspa.com

Merry Christmas to You and Yours

Wishing you a Christmas full of joy, laughter and luxury...

Lots of love and happy wishes from The Daily Connoisseur xx


Vintage Vogue cover courtesy of: www.vogue.co.uk

A Tale of Two Christmases

With Christmas rapidly approaching, I can't help but feel excited about the festivities and good cheer that are (hopefully!) on the way.

This year, with the current economic crisis, the Christmas festivities have not been quite as festive as Mr. Fezziwig's ball from Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol. No, that would seem too lavish and perhaps inappropriate. But they also have not been of the Bob Cratchit variety either. This year, the best Christmas gatherings meet somewhere in between... a little glitz and glamour mixed with the good cheer of quality time spent with close friends and family.

On Monday, I will have the pleasure of attending a gingerbread house party. My good friend N and I have lofty ambitions of making a show stopper gingerbread house, complete with flying buttresses and gargoyles!

I'm also looking forward to getting in touch with old friends who are back in town. Festive lunches, clinking glasses and gift-giving? How delightful...

But perhaps the main thing that is having me rub my hands together in delight and anticipation is the feast on Christmas day: Roast goose with pate and prune stuffing and all of the trimmings (a recipe straight from The Two Fat Ladies). This feast is not being prepared by me, but by my family (all the more reason to enjoy it!) I am in charge of the dessert. I'm thinking homemade apple pie... with a gorgeous, golden and flaky crust.

Oh dear... I'm already hungry...

I hope all of your holiday festivities, on a big scale or small, are bringing you happiness and good cheer...


Image of Mr. Fezziwig's Ball courtesy of: www.charlesdickenspage.com

It's a Green, Green Christmas

I love giving gifts to friends and family during the holidays but usually stress about the prospect. Reason being? I want to give meaningful gifts that are personal, affordable and will be appreciated. Phew- So much pressure!

Luckily, this year I have my game plan and I'm going green! I've discovered these fabulous, reusable water bottles by Earthlust.



Made of food grade stainless steel, these custom designed bottles are chic to carry around and great for the environment.

I bought myself this gorgeous 13oz bottle with the tree design and I love it.



I will NEVER go back to wasteful plastic water bottles again!

I love this little one with the owl...



The bottles range between $16 and $21 dollars and make a fantastic stocking stuffer.

For my friends, I'm creating a little gift bag complete with Earthlust water bottles and Baggu reusable shopping bags. The perfect environmentally friendly gift...


For Earthlust bottles, please visit: www.earthlust.com

Meditations on a Full Moon

Raise your hand if you've had a crazy last few days. I know I have. And now I sit at my computer, feeling as though I am coming to the end of a chapter that could well be titled: "Meditations on a Full Moon or Madness and all of its Friends".

I have a wonderful life- and not without madness, mind you. But the madness that started Thursday evening and ended just a few hours ago was not of the garden variety. Yes, the last few days brought me a mysterious plumbing catastrophe in my home, crazy, feuding neighbors, an almost tribal night of dancing at a friend's going away party and today a children's birthday party that would make the Mad Hatter's tea gathering look tame.

And I had to wonder, did any of this have to do with Friday's incredible full moon?

When the madness began to happen Thursday evening, I started to resist it but I found it much easier to let go of the paddles and just enjoy the experience like a wild and colorful dream.

So to end it on a peaceful note, I am staying in tonight, cuddling up with a new book (that will remain nameless as I am going to review it shortly) and am just going to appreciate a quiet evening at home.

Did you survive the madness of the full moon?

Je Suis Malade...

Oh it rarely happens, but when it does... sheer misery!

But at least while I nurse this horrible cold I am in heaven reading the latest book from my favorite author Alexander McCall Smith: The World According to Bertie.



This is the fourth installment in the 44 Scotland Street series and it is as enthralling and endearing as the three before it.

I'm almost enjoying myself- but don't tell anyone!

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things...

My favorite movie of all time is Amelie or as it is known in France, Le Fabuleux Destin D'Amelie Poulain. I have been smitten with this movie from the day I saw it in a Paris Cinema over seven years ago. Now, I am definitely a film buff and have many favorites, but no film has ever moved me as Amelie has. Maybe it's because I relate to her so much... who knows?

One of my favorite aspects of the movie is how the narrator introduces each character by listing the small pleasures that they love in life.

For example, Amelie enjoys: plunging her hands into a sack of grain at the market, skipping stones across St. Martin's Canal, and cracking the top of a creme brulee with a spoon...



It is, after all, the small things that are so telling about a person, n'est pas?

So, in the spirit of Amelie, here are a few of my favorite small pleasures in life:

- At night, getting in to a well-made bed. There is something so luxurious about clean sheets, perfectly orchestrated with the duvet, blankets and pillows... ahhh...

- Walking my dog at twilight. This is my favorite time of day... I love looking at people's living rooms all lit up and seeing the way they live... (in a non-creepy way, of course).

- Having a coca-cola with sushi. I generally avoid the stuff (coke, not sushi) and generally consider it poisonous, but for some reason LOVE to have it with my sashimi and spider rolls...

- Laughter. You've all seen the carrot, and now, another picture that will hopefully make you smile...



The list could go on forever...

I would love to know the small things in life that bring you pleasure...

Image of Amelie poster, courtesy of: www.wickimedia.com

Image of Amelie with spoon, courtesy of: www.guardian.co.uk

Image of cute baby monkey from: www.cuteoverload.com

On Exercise

Today I went hiking up Runyon Canyon with two of my good friends. I consider myself to be pretty physically fit, but for some reason, today's hike was incredibly difficult.

Had the hills gotten steeper since the last time I went? Or maybe it was the headwind?

No, I believe it is because I had taken a few days off from my usual exercise routine for the Thanksgiving holiday. That, coupled with the fact that I consumed copious amounts of food I don't normally eat, along with various glasses of wine and coffee (although not all at the same time... thankfully).

What a difference a few days can make!

I think everyone hits that plateau when they are exercising, when they think they simply cannot go on. Where they would rather be any place, doing anything else than what they are currently doing. This happened today while hiking up the unusually steep hill (it has been raining here, maybe it was just a tad steeper). I honestly considered asking my friends to turn around so we could all get breakfast. But then I remembered the title of one of my favorite books by Jon Kabat-Zinn, that says: "Wherever You Go, There You Are".

And there I was. Out of breath, sweating profusely, arduously climbing the hill. I just accepted it in that moment and was able to push through. Not so bad after all...

Now if only I can remember this bit of wisdom in my early Monday morning yoga class...

I would love to know what you do to keep physically fit...

Image of hiking women courtesy of: www.corbis.com

Thanksgiving Is A Time For Sharing And Caring

Well folks, it is that incredible time of year for gathering with family and friends to partake in the festive cornucopia of Turkey, Stuffing, your favorite Casserole, Jello Molds, hot steaming Croissants and lastly the decadent deserts which includes the proverbial pumpkin pie.

The display on the table is so beautiful, full of colors which remain true to fall shades. The holidays are my most favorite time of the year, are they yours?

The house fills with the subtle aromas of cinnamon, ginger, pumpkin pie and the turkey from roasting all day. The gourmet fixin's are an enticing one which gets the mouth to watering and is only rivaled by Christmas's feast.

Thanksgiving for many, is also a time to be thankful for the things we have rather than worrying about the things we don't. It is also a day which launches most of America into a frenzy to begin the Christmas shopping game, beginning with Black Friday. I never understood this description for the biggest shopping day of the entire year.....it sounds so dismal for such a colorful time of the year.

It is a time to watch the last of the crimson leaves drift away on the breeze as the trees drop their splendid fall color and give way to the colder temperatures. Snow begins to float down from the gray sky.... and bundled up inside by the fire, humming along with my Christmas Carols, recalling fondly holidays past, I watch the fluffy snow flock the wispy limbs and the few remaining leaves hanging on until the last, giving stark contrast to the lovely fall colors as they recede into winter. So beautiful!

I will be having a large gathering at my home as well and we will all decorate the tree and the house on this day. It has been tradition in our household since my kids were little. Now they are all grown and doing their own thing. I am happy however, our home is where they return for the fun, games, warmth and love.

There are so few traditions left in today's hectic world that I am grateful for those we are able to cherish despite the economy and unrest in the world. Sentimentally, I am caught up in the holiday fervor and truly love the cheery feeling it creates in my soul.

Whether a person believes in it or not, you simply can't ignore the festivities and decorations which surround us everywhere we go. Christmas Carols playing on the radio and in every mall across the country. Cookies baking continually over the next month, their lingering scent combined with the crisp pine fragrance of the Christmas Tree that sits in that perfect spot showing off the gala display of holiday color, creating an ambiance of comfort and joy. It puts a jig in my step, a smile on my face and makes me feel just a bit better about the future. I witness those around me becoming lighter in spirit and give more of themselves. I do so love this time of year.

And after all is said and done in preparing the large feast for my family and friends, and we have all said our thanks and have sated our bellies on the vast spread of food, I'll be joyous and grateful for my family being together, and I will sigh and smile just a bit as I watch them all slowly drift off into a turkey coma.

I will also be remembering those who cannot be with us on this day or with their families and I will say a prayer for those and theirs.

From our family to yours, we wish you and yours a wonderful holiday....Have a Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays!

Cheers!

Gobble...Gobble!

Happy Thanksgiving: A Tribute to my Favorite Blogs

As Thanksgiving approaches I tend to pause and appreciate the people and things in life that I am grateful for. Really I should do this all year long (and I do to an extent- although my gratitude journal is not as full as it could be- oops!)

I am incredibly grateful for so many things; one of the main being all of the wonderful blogs I follow. Ladies, you raise the bar when it comes to writing, discussion, art, point of view and living. You elevate my happiness and really broaden my mind. So as a tribute to my favorite blogs, a little word on each:

Jenavira at Scent of Abricots: the lovely images, music and perfume reviews are as soothing as a cup of tea. I always look forward to seeing what the SOTD is…

Rose at A Rose Beyond the Thames: I love that this blog covers so many topics from a fabulously British point of view.

Scentscelf at Notes From the Ledge: Some of the most intricate and colorful perfume reviews I’ve ever read! I never fail to smile and ponder at the same time…

Divina at Fragrance Bouquet: I love Divina’s blog because of her beautiful prose and the joie de vivre that runs through the pulse of her words…

Helg at Perfume Shrine: Helg’s in-depth reviews are fabulous. I love her point of view and writing style… she’s a true perfumista.

Vicki at French Essence: Vicki’s thought-provoking posts are a joy to read. I love to live vicariously though her French adventures…

Here, There, Elsewhere… and More: This is a beautiful blog that always provides stunning images and a lot to ponder. I love that it is bilingual as it keeps me up on my French.

So there you have it. Thank you for your constant inspiration... for me, you make this world a wonderland. I look forward to keeping the discussions going!

And to my American readers, I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving...

P.S.- I'm not sure what David Stoupakis' haunting painting, "Balance", has to do with Thanksgiving, or gratitude or any of my favorite blogs but it has been on my mind recently and therefore, it is up :)

"Balance" courtesy of: www.davidstoupakis.com

The Safety Of Titanium Dioxide Used In Mineral Makeup

Should We Be Concerned?

I have written an article in some length about the use of Micronized Minerals in mineral makeup and its effect on creating nano-sized particles within this process. For some this has been a long time concern and I couldn't agree more to a certain extent. But now we are faced with a whole new complication caused by certain watchdog groups.

The question remains; is titanium dioxide safe when used in Mineral Makeup?

Yes...it is! It isn't as simple as nano particles or whether or not titanium dioxide will cause cancer. It is about the facts surrounding the safe use of this ingredient in mineral cosmetics, sunscreens, and food products, and the disinformation sprinkled throughout with unsubstantiated research.

What has most recently occurred in this past year, the Environmental Working Group has been working in unison with the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics to fundamentally use a broad stroke to demonize many cosmetic ingredients that have been used for generations without complication or incident.

Although I strive to create products that meet or exceed safety demand for the finest and safest ingredients, I am still faced with the difficult decision to withdraw from the campaign. I continue to stand by what I and other Indie manufacturers have done by creating products in all facets of beauty as an alternative to the big box companies utilizing a compilation of synthetic chemicals in their formulas. And my products and philosophy speak for themselves. As an Indie company, we have been swept into the melee of these two entities trying to create FDA Legislation which could make it virtually impossible for small cosmetic manufacturers to exist. I find it contradictory to further support an entity that wishes to create instability within the industry and undue paranoia among consumers. What I once felt was an excellent entity to support Indie manufacturers philosophy, has now in my humble opinion, become tainted and the ramifications of their actions will be far reaching.

I Attempt To State My Position

I have been in contact with the campaign for safe cosmetics via email and have expressed my concerns. I requested an explanation of why I am seeing safety ratings for Titanium Dioxide being reclassified from a 1 to a 5-8 depending on usage. Unfortunately, this is where the broad stroke is being painted as a one size fits all mentality. Further research is required and based on the research that I have reviewed most of their claims are unfounded and have yet to be proven unequivocally. Furthermore, most ingredients also reflect huge data gaps which should pose the question, "how they arrive at their analysis achieving these ratings with so little information?" Also be aware that the campaign clearly states that even with a low safety concern rating, they are not necessarily stating a particular ingredient is safe creating further confusion for the consumer.

I have stated my arguments with this entity and advised them as long as they continue to use our memberships to support their agenda against those who are diligent in creating the safest products to date, then I in good conscience could no longer be affiliated with them. They further advised me they are working on trying to expand the data base to include different types of processed ingredients. When and if they do practice fair reporting then I may reconsider my position.

It was explained to me they are not discerning between TiO2, Micronized Titanium Dioxide versus Non-micronized Titanium Dioxide. They are being classified as one in the same. I find this level of intolerance for certain ingredients to be inexcusable and irresponsible reporting. It further dismays me the level of concern it has raised with several customers recently. However, once explained what is happening right now within the watchdog groups and the difference between these types of minerals, their concerns were alleviated. It is myself and others within my industry whom have a growing level of contention with watching ingredients which were once determined safe now achieving safety ratings of 3 or higher. (medium to high level of concern)

This now includes examples of essential oils and other herbs and botanicals that have been used for years in holistic remedies. Whereby your favorite soap company or skin care line created by an Indie will also be affected if they create an aromatherapy or healing soap bar or cream for the skin.

Deaf Ears

During my conversations with the Campaign they confirmed the higher rating was completely based on usage of TiO2, which is micronized (nano size) Titanium Dioxide used primarily in liquid foundations and sunscreens where transparency is essential to avoid whitening of the skin. However, they are refusing to convey this tidbit of information to the consumer and have not done any research on mineral makeup to date, but are strictly testing and researching liquid sunscreen safety and synthetically formulated foundations where this ingredient is used extensively. Furthermore, the exposure levels are consistently higher for those exposed at a manufacturing level and this is also not explained in the report to the casual user. Mineral Makeup correctly designed will not be absorbed by the skin but will sit on top of it and refract UV Rays away from your face. This is the research necessary in order to stipulate differences and not be absolutely so black and white in their theories.

There are only a small number of companies that may use this in their mineral makeup products and of those they have recently changed their formulas to not include TiO2 any longer, including one of my competitors, Jane Iredale. This type of Titanium has proved to not be as effective in mineral makeup since you cannot achieve the level of coverage women and men are seeking. This includes micronized Zinc Oxide. And after all, isn't that the whole point of clean mineral makeup needing to be equivalent in coverage as a liquid foundation without using all the gunk?

Unfortunately, this argument falls on deaf ears since their agenda is to actually target big box companies which may abuse the safety standards in targeted products by the CFSC. This endeavor could be considered commendable, but what they are proposing may come at a very high price, sacrificing the Indie manufacturer. We will become the casualties of this war and the campaign will be eliminating the cosmetic manufacturers which have showed support of their efforts to bring us to where we are today. Their agenda will only allow for big box companies to get bigger and eliminate your choices as a consumer. You can learn more about FDA Globalization Act of 2008 at this Link (FDA Article) and still sign the petition if you find this legislation to be too broad scoped.

Support A Cause For Choice

We all appreciate the support of our customers as we feel these issues should be dealt with a discriminatory scalpel mindset.... not an axe, bloodying the entire industry! So right now it is a wait and see game with the FDA and the EWG and the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics to see if there will be compromise and clear parameters set forth in the draft before the House Committee. Hopefully, fair play will be set forth to develop growing Indie businesses, not shove them into a position of having to close their doors.

Please rest assured that my company, Sterling Minerals Cosmetics, will continue with safety standards above and beyond what is required by the FDA, the European Union Cosmetics Directive (EU) and the requirements as set forth by Japans industry since we wish to continue to ship globally. We will always remain compliant in our formulations as an FDA Registered Company, always continue with full disclosure of our products through Truth and Labeling Practices, and to be involved at a legislative level within my own state. I am currently liaison for my state to the Indie Beauty Network who is working diligently on most of the Indie cosmetic companies behalf, meeting with legislators in Washington D.C. And I will keep you informed as this proposed legislation moves forward or if it should move forward. In the meantime, if anyone has questions, please don't hesitate to either comment here or write to me directly through our website.

Enjoy your weekend and know that you are using the safest form of cosmetics to date for your overall skin health. Conscientious Indie Companies wouldn't have it any other way!

So please relax and enjoy a nice cup of joe as our warm weather gives way to Mr. Jack Frost!

UPDATE 2/24/2010: Please follow the latest story. The FDA Globalization Act of 2009! It has been a victory for the INDIE manufacturer of skincare products and mineral cosmetics. So far, congress has listened to the issues and they are treating the small business entities with fair practices with setting new regulations that allow us to remain in business.

Also, It appears that the Campaign For Safe Cosmetics is making some adjustments in their ingredient categories and separating out the varieties of different types of processed minerals, botanicals and essential oils.

However, with this new scoring, they are also assessing safe ingredients with wide range of scores based on bad science with the practice being reflected to date with huge data gaps. This practice is still unacceptable and will not draw my support.

The campaign is striving to attack this on a state by state basis to enact laws within each state making it impossible to provide products in these states. This will be to the detriment of their own economy and provide zero benefit to the consumers. If these laws pass as written in their current form, a consumer will have few choices since most to all will be gone from their store shelves.

Also companies that support the campaign will also be in violation as most use ingredients which are deemed carcinogens and neurotoxins according to CFSC. Somehow I don't believe they understand the full scope that by signing their name to the compact has actually done to their bottom line. The campaign for safe cosmetics is striving to become the recognized surveyor of all that is harmful with little actual evidence to support their theories.

Crepes, Theatre and the Fabulous Beryl Cook

So far this week has been quite social for me. Monday night was spent dining at The Creperie in Beverly Hills with three of my best friends. We spent the night eating crepes, laughing and reminiscing... who could ask for a better evening?

Tuesday night I went to the lovely Ahmanson Theatre in Downtown to see the Tony Award winning musical, Spring Awakening. This show was fabulous, but a word to the wise- do not see this with your parents! Who knew so much nudity, cussing and racy actions could be packed into a musical that takes place in turn of the century Germany?! I should have known, with a name like Spring Awakening what I was getting myself into. Luckily I saw this with friends so the embarrassment factor was non-existent. Once I got past the shock factor, I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

And finally, while searching for images to post on tonight's blog, I came across the fabulous Beryl Cook's work (see Ladies Who Lunch, above). Cook died in May of this year and what a tragic loss. Her paintings, while not necessarily deep, sure did make me smile. I also love Dining in Paris, below.


Trust me, if Gatsby was allowed in restaurants, this is what "date night" would look like for my husband and me... escargot anyone?

For more information the Creperie, please visit: www.creperiebyjacknjills.com

For information on Spring Awakening, please visit: www.centertheatregroup.org

Ladies Who Lunch courtesy of: www.leadingartevents.co.uk

Dining in Paris courtesy of: www.studio18.co.uk

New Skin Care Line In Final Stages Of Development

My new skin care line is getting through the final stages of testing. I had thought I would get it launched much sooner, but as I found out, nothing at this level of working with skin care products can be rushed to market. Plus, I still have packaging and labeling decisions to make, along with product photography. I also am working on names for the products. Phew....decisions...decisions.

I have worked diligently through research and development to accomplish the perfect combination of ingredients that would not sensitize skin and would only help to soothe, soften and alleviate dryness of the complexion. Not only have I tested countless formulations on my own extremely sensitive skin, I have had family and friends also give me their accounting of how each skin care product did for them. Believe me, I sustained some irritation while going through my testing phase. No further testing was required beyond that. If it didn't pass the Katherine Corkill Test, then that formula was discarded without further adieu.

As I move toward making this a reality for my company, I also am hoping to be able to offer free samples to my returning lady clients when they order full size mineral powders from Sterling Minerals. If this phase occurs for further testing, an announcement will be placed under our "Specials" and "What's New" links. So keep an eye out...plus I will send out an announcement in my skin care guide.

Now I would like to introduce you to what is coming up and what I have narrowed my selection down to in my skin care line. The consistency in my creams was equally as important for being lightweight, no greasy after feel, absorb quickly softening and aiding in healing skin conditions. They are so luscious and scrumptious in feel and texture, you may want to eat them up, but please don't! Just slather the wonderful fluffy, silken cream on your face and feel the soothing difference.

Allow me to offer a sneak peek at the proposed formulations ingredient list for each product so you might see how this new line might work for your skin. Ingredients are listed according to ratios in descending order. These creams for the most part are unscented except where an inherent aroma occurs with using natural and organic botanicals. The skin creams are all certified Vegan! I also am using a synthetic preservative system combined with organic preservatives for better skin health and safety against a product going bad. The ratio is less than 1% to total product. I also wrote a piece on preservative systems. An excellent article for those who wish to know more about preservatives and how they work.

Mature, Dry, Some Normal Skin Types Face Cream
This skin cream has a luscious natural light citrus scent that revitalizes the senses. Does not linger.

Aloe barbadensis (Aloe) Juice, Rosa damascena (Rose) Distillate, Butyrospermun parkii (Shea) Butter, Emulsifying Wax NF, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel), Theobroma cacao (Natural Cocoa) Butter, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Palm Stearic Acid, Mangifera indica (Mango) Butter, Citrus sinensis (Sweet Orange) Essential Oil, Xanthan Gum (Polysaccharide Gum), Lavandula officinalis (Lavender) Essential Oil, Mannan, Salix nigra (Organic Black Willow Bark) Extract, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) Oleoresin, Azadirachta indica (Neem)Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid

Mature, Dry, Normal, Combination, Acneic Face Cream 80% Organic

Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Juice, Lavendula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Distillate, Anthemis nobilis (Organic Roman Chamomile) Distillate, Cocos nucifera (Organic Coconut) Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF, Palm Stearic Acid, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Vitis vinifera (Grapeseed) Oil, Persea americana (Avocado) Oil, Prunus dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel), Camellia sinensis (Organic Green Tea) Extract, Urtica dioica (Organic Nettle Leaf) Extract, Stellaria media (Organic Chickweed) Extract, Ulmus fulva (Organic Slippery Elm) Extract, Silybum marianum (Organic Milk Thistle) Extract, Althea officinalis (Organic Marshmallow Root) Extract, Avena sativa (Organic Oatstraw) Extract, Aphanizomenon flos-aqua (Blue Green Algae), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Cannabis sativa (Hemp) Oil, Salix nigra (Organic Black Willow Bark) Extract, Mannan, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) Oleoresin, Azadirachta indica (Neem) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid

Mature, Oily, Normal, Combination, Sensitive, Damaged Face Cream 81% Organic

Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe Vera) Juice, Hibiscus sp. (Hibiscus) Flower Extract, Cocos nucifera (Organic Coconut) Oil, Rosa mosqueta (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF, Stearic Acid, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Beta Carotene (Pro Vitamin A), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Ester), Calcium d-Pantothenate (Pro-Vitamin B5), Xanthan Gum (Polysaccharide Gum), Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) Oleoresin, Azadirachta indica (Neem) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid

My facial cleansers are both Sulfate Free and Paraben Free and will leave absolutely nothing except a perfectly clean face. They are not Vegan due to milk and honey extracts.

Facial Cream Cleanser for Sensitive, Mature, Dry, Sun damaged, Oily, Normal and Combination 81% Organic pH 4.5-5.5
Cleans the skin wonderfully without leaving residue or drying it out.

Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Juice, Camellia sinensis (Organic Green Tea) Extract, Lactose (Milk), Lavendula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Distillate, Anthemis nobilis (Organic Roman Chamomile) Distillate, Rosa damascena (Rose) Distillate, Vitis vinifera (Grapeseed) Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Xanthan Gum (Polysaccharide Gum), Organic Honey, Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Ester), d-Calcium Pantothenate (Pro-Vitamin B5), Retinol Palmitate (Vitamin A), Mannan, Salix nigra (Black Willowbark) Extract, Azadirachta indica (Neem) Oil, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) Oleoresin, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium Edta, Citric Acid

Facial Cleanser for Sensitive, Acneic, Oily, Normal and Combination pH 5-6
Will not strip skin of its' natural oils. Has a fresh, clean inherent aroma and just leaves a nice fresh complexion.

Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Juice, Lavendula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Distillate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocopolyglucoside Tartrate, Sodium Cocopolyglucoside Citrate, Avena sativa (Oat) Extract, Xanthan Gum (Polysaccharide Gum), Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Organic Honey, Hydrolized Wheat Proteins, d-Calcium Pantothenate (Pro-Vitamin B5), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium Edta

Facial Toner for Sensitive, Acneic, Mature, Dry, Sun damaged, Oily, Normal and Combination 95% Organic pH 4.5-5.5
Great overall toner for many skin types. Possesses a light fresh inherent subtle aroma of Rose which does not linger. Certified Vegan.

Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Leaf Juice, Rosa damascena (Rose) Distillate, (Vaccinium Myrtillus (Organic Bilberry) Extract, Saccharum officinarum (Organic Sugar Cane) Extract, Acer Saccharinum (Organic Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus auranium dulcis (Organic Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus medica limonum (Organic Lemon) Extract, Vaccinium macrocarpon (Organic Cranberry) Extract, Dimethlaminoethanol (DMAE Bitartrate ), Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Salix nigra (Black Willowbark) Extract, Polysorbate, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Essential Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium Edta, Citric Acid

Now for my very favorite and I saved the best for last.

Facial Serum Mature, dry, normal, sensitive and combination can also stand alone as a light moisturizer for oily or acneic skin.

Smells wonderful as though you stepped into an English Tea Rose Garden. The scent is ever so subtle, yet won't linger. I can't get enough of this, no greasy after feel and extremely cooling to the skin. I have chosen a formula that helps to fight free radical damage to the skin and to aid in fighting progression of further skin damage which is consistent with aging. Certified Vegan.

Rosa damascena (Rose) Distillate, Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe Vera) Juice, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), Emulsifying Wax NF, Limnanthes alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Vaccinium myrtillus (Organic Bilberry) Extract, Saccharum officinarum (Organic Sugar Cane) Extract, Acer saccharinum (Organic Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus auranium dulcis (Organic Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus medica limonum (Organic Lemon) Extract, Vaccinium macrocarpon (Organic Cranberry) Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Ester), CoQ10, Beta Carotene (Pro Vitamin A), Retinol Palmitate (Vitamin A), Alpha Lipoic Acid, DL- Thioctic Acid, d-Calcium Pantothenate (Panthenol Vitamin B5), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Daucus carota (Carrot) Oil, Lecithin, Xanthan Gum (Polysaccharide gum), Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid

As you can see I have provided lots of anti-oxidants, organics and natural humectants for the skin to fight the signs of aging. There is everything your skin needs in this facial serum except the kitchen sink. This will also be our premiere product in the entire line.

As I get continued feedback from customers, some of these on my list may still not make my final cut except for the Facial Serum. This one is a given and I personally cannot live without it in my own skin care regimen. Be sure to pass them out to your spouse since these will also be wonderful for a mans' skin.

All have a wonderful weekend and I will keep you apprised as we progress to the final stages.

On Happiness

Lately I have noticed a lot of articles written on the subject of happiness: what it is, how to get it and why so many people don’t have it. Yes, happiness seems to be the Holy Grail of emotions for many people right now, so in honor of that certain esprit or joie de vivre that we would all like to have more of, I have decided to list a few things that keep me happy on a daily basis.

- My dog, Gatsby (pictured, as a puppy, above). He is the ultimate companion and best friend. It doesn’t matter if I’ve left the house for two hours or ten minutes, when I step through the front door he is completely overjoyed to see me. His excitement and happiness is palpable and contagious. Any trace of a bad mood is instantly erased when I see that wagging tail.

- Exercise. I’m really enjoying the current combination of yoga, walking and qi gong. I’ve never been much of a gym person and these exercises just seem to boost my mood and keep me happy.

- Reading. As most of you know, I LOVE to read. (Which I why I am always so grateful when I get fab book recommendations from you). I usually read about one to two books a week- its just such a fantastic way to escape and to broaden the mind. What’s on my nightstand right now? Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat Zinn.

- And lastly, finding humor in everyday life. You can imagine my reaction when I came across this carrot at the grocery store the other day... Sometimes spontaneous laughter is an instant portal to happiness.

I would love to know… what makes you happy?

Paris Tango by Carla Coulson

Yesterday I received a signed copy of the amazing book Paris Tango as a gift from Vicki over at French Essence, one of my favorite new blogs. Vicki’s posting on “Which Parisian Are You?” instantly drew me in as it recalled the time when I lived in Paris as a student- one of the most memorable and fabulous times of my life. So you can imagine the joy and sheer glee when I came home from lunch yesterday to find this gorgeous book on my doorstep.

Paris Tango is a book of staggering beauty with photography and writings by Carla Coulson, an Australian in Paris. It is the sort of book that draws you in instantly- Coulson divides the book into ten chapters: Photography, The Marais, Moulin Rouge, Artists, Gardens, Perfume, Haute Couture, Dogs, The Parisians and Dance. Each chapter is filled with her artistic photography and well written anecdotes about life in Paris.

I spent hours yesterday, perusing through the images and reading about her experience. As I did so, one word kept reverberating in my mind, passion. Yes, that is, perhaps, the reason why so many of us love Paris and why those of us who have been lucky enough to live there or visit are so enthralled by all things French. There is a passion that vibrates through this city. It moves through your pulse and is on the tip of your tongue. It is on your mind and in what you eat. Passion. Carla Coulson’s book is so brilliant because she managed to capture this feeling and put it to the page.

Merci beaucoup Vicki for this wonderful present- I am forever grateful.

For more information on the author, please visit: www.carlacoulson.com

Kiss My Face Moisture Soap in Almond

To continue my review of fantastic products that still bring luxury to your life without breaking your bank, I bring to you Kiss My Face moisture soap in Almond.

I love high quality soap. Let's face it; we wash our hands so often throughout the day, it is important to use a soap that not only provides moisture, but smells of sheer luxury too.

I also love taking a moment to indulge in small pleasures, so whenever I wash my hands with this lovely soap, I pause and inhale the heady, sweet, aromatic fragrance of almonds- one of my favorite scents.

Kiss My Face products are self-described as "obsessively natural", so you can really rest assured that you are not using a product with artificial fragrance or parabens. It proudly contains Olive oil (for moisture), aloe vera, vitamins A & E, herbs, flowers and natural almond essence. This soap feels and smells expensive but retails at about $4.99- fantastic!

Inexpensive enough to use everyday, yet chic enough to have in your powder room, Kiss My Face moisture soap in Almond has been, for me, a luxurious find.

Kiss My Face products can be purchased at Whole Foods or online at www.kissmyface.com

Do Lip Plumpers Work? And Are They Safe?

This little tidbit of information will close out my series on Lipsticks and Glosses. The safety of lip plumpers is questionable, and whether or not they actually work is the question of the day! Even if they may work are they really a safe product to use over the long term?

Lip Plumpers are an interesting product for enhancement in order to achieve a fuller lip if you can stand the feel of these little gems. Many women are attracted to Hollywood starlets amazing pouty mouths. And I agree, some have got the perfectly shaped mouth. But the question remains "Do lip plumpers actually work to this degree?"

I love using Lip Colors and have tried many over the years. All types of shades and shines. Some have been great, some goopy to the point where my hair would be stuck to my mouth in the slightest breeze. Some too shiny or shimmery. And it has been rare that I have ever finished a lipstick completely, usually tossing it before it was gone because some new color or new-fangled creation came on the market. That was until I realized it was better to mix colors before throwing one out. So much money down the old porcelain bowl.

The latest craze to hit the market are Lip Plumpers for women who are wishing to have the lips of a movie star like Anne Hathaway!

Lip Plumpers will definitely give a very red bee stung pout to the mouth and work well for some women. If you have very thin lips, then the results will be less than favorable. To some degree to achieve that kissable pout, the woman needs to have a fuller mouth to begin with in order for her lips to appear plumper. This concept is a great idea, but at what cost?

One of the most popular and first one to market, is a product called Lip Venom! It is a gloss that causes your lips to swell through irritation from oils of cinnamon, wintergreen and ginger. It was the new way to achieve a fuller pout without resorting to collagen injections.

Due to its popularity, many others followed to capture the market for their piece of the pie. There are currently close to 50 products in similarity on the market today. Other ingredients in these included eucalyptus, clove and spearmint.

Others claim, for instance Lip Fusion, to infuse lips through the use of Micro Collagen by being absorbed through the skin, painlessly. Many women will be disappointed with this concept since collagen cannot be rebuilt within skin tissue through absorption. Nice theory but false! Your lips will feel smoother and quite soft though.

Many products also claim to last up to a couple of days, however this was not the case for me and other women who have used them. They told me this claim is greatly exaggerated. It really is a short, temporary fullness for the mouth.

In order to achieve the super pout for instance, Lisa Rinna comes to mind, it is going to require a visit to your plastic surgeon for this serious augmentation of the mouth. In my humble opinion, this actress went way over the top. I saw her before augmentation and she was beautiful just the way she was. Too bad! But I digress...

Even though this has been a huge phenomenon among women, there is definitely a down side to using these types of products.

I personally tried these lip plumpers and the discomfort was so intense, I had to get them off immediately. Unfortunately, the effect is immediate and you achieve full red, sunburned looking lips within a minute. The results lasted for a couple of hours and they continued to tingle the entire time just to a lesser degree. They also did little to improve the shape of my mouth. My lower lip plumped since it has fullness already while my thin upper lip just looked sunburned. Nope.... no fullness there and that was the part of my mouth needing the most help. Also afterward my lips did some sloughing of skin because they dried out from the irritating oils. And the ongoing sensation that I had eaten something spicy became distracting and annoying. They were definitely not my cup of tea. For women who can stand the burning and stinging, then more power to you. I personally advise a heavy coating of Vaseline before going to bed to avoid chapped lips if you use these products.

Despite all the others on the market, I went into a Sephora store and asked them what was their most popular lip plumper to date, and it was still the original Lip Venom despite the heftier price tag, which runs about $16.00 to $20.00 dollars. But not near as pricey as Lip Fusion which is a whopping $30.00 dollars or more.

This brings me to the question of them being safe for use. For the most part they are quite safe to use in terms of ingredients, and women will continue to use them with success. But from a dermatologists' perspective, they have warnings of their own. I decided to discuss this with my personal dermatologist about what he thought of these lip plumpers. Apparently there has been some feedback on these through his trade journals so he had plenty to say about them.

Basically, he felt it was ill advised to use them based on how they cause irritation to the mouth. The look is achieved through these irritating elements, of which I named above, which promotes increased circulation and blood vessels to dilate. However, my dermatologist insisted that this could go beyond just a simple pout, but actually distort the lips on women not realizing they could be having an allergic reaction to the ingredients. The lips could be very swollen beyond what they can tolerate and crack spreading further inflammation to the areas around the mouth. And if used in excess, the lips may become ulcerated followed by infection.

The products themselves carry warning labels advising "if irritation or discomfort persists remove immediately and discontinue use". Well, I'm thinking.... isn't that kind of the whole point?

Another facet to this cosmetic puzzle, if in a relationship, your boyfriend or hubby will be none too thrilled to kiss you since the irritants will transfer to his mouth. Don't be surprised by his reaction when he pulls away at the sudden burning sensation.

What some of us do to look sexy!? And what we will endure to achieve that luscious pout of dealing with the distress to our lips, to risking allergic reactions!? All this for the sake of looking like the incredibly beautiful Angelina Jolie.

I ponder....Lip Venom, good name! Kind of says it all!

Smooches and have a great weekend!

YES!

I am moved beyond words...

What a moment in history...

Last night we were holding our breath... we just exhaled.

Happy Voting

What an exciting time in American Politics...

It is Monday night and it feels as though we are all collectively holding our breath...

I wish everyone a happy Tuesday and leave with the thought that I am very grateful to be able to vote tomorrow and exercise my right as a citizen- the right to voice my opinion and hopefully make a difference...

Happy voting...

Image from the women's suffrage movement courtesy of: www.albany.edu