A Few Of My Favorite Things

 

If you are like me, your inquiring mind often wonders what skincare, makeup, or clothing brand  your friends use. We learn by asking questions. So today I bring to you a few (ten) of my favorite things, other than a good cocktail and confetti! These products make me happy, and I use them almost every day. I think you will like them, too. 

It Cosmetics Celebration Foundation Illumination

I just discovered this powder foundation last month.  This talc-free formula gives you full coverage in just 30 seconds. It does not settle into lines and wrinkles, and is infused with skin loving ingredients like hydrolyzed collagen. That brush is the best I own. Love it!

It Cosmetics  or QVC

Vine Pullover

The perfect top to wear with your workout leggings or yoga pants. It is so good looking, roomy, and not hot at all....it's cotton. The collar is so versatile, and makes a statement. Love the gold hardware. Long enough to cover the tush. I own the black and just ordered the ivory.

Saks Fifth Ave or Varley

Deborah Lippmann A Fine Romance Polish

The perfect color in my opinion. It's fresh and sophisticated, while going with everything. I switched to Deborah's polishes after I lost all of my acrylic nails during last year's shut down. I literally had a mess on my hands. This polish gives you the gloss and the cushion of a gel manicure, without the harmful chemicals. And it features so many good for you ingredients like green tea, evening primrose, and more.

Nordstrom

Yummie Boot Cut Leggings

This is what you will find me living in most days. They are perfect for exercise and blogging. Quite comfortable even though they do hold you "in." I generally don't like shapewear, but these I love. Instead of tight compression, they offer what feels like a hug to the tummy. They do good things for the

 backside, too. Sizes often sell out. Hopefully one of the following sources has your size.

Yummie.  Shopbop.  or Zappos

Laura Mercier Hand Cream

I have used her body cream, but not in a long time. It smells like heaven. And so does this hand cream. It was a lovely birthday gift from a friend. The scent, ambre vanille is luscious, and it does such nice things for your hands. I particularly like the sheen it gives them. You will love it, too.

Laura Mercier or Nordstrom

Beekman 1802 Facial Soaps

One could say that I double cleanse my face. I use Beekman's facial wipes first to take off makeup, and then I use these magic facial cleansing bars. I personally alternate between the Triple Milk Retinol Bar and the Charcoal Milk Bar.  You won't believe how the bars foam up with the softest suds! The charcoal acts as a magnet to draw out impurities from your pores. Thanks to shea butter and goat milk, they are so gentle, and have never hurt my eyes or skin. 

Beekman 1802 

Dr. Axe Organic Essential Oils

I can't remember life before essential oils. I use them every day for something. It is very important that they be organic, or they can have fillers in it. I trust Dr. Axe. I put lavender in the bath water nightly. It has a wonderful calming effect (even on dogs, a little behind the ears). Oregano oil is great for pain. I used it today on an ouchie ankle. It works almost instantly. Tea Tree Oil is a natural antiseptic...without nasty petroleum. If you cut yourself, reach for Tea Tree.  Here's a great primer on essential oils.

Dr. Axe

Tea Forte Tea

I am a tea lover. One would think I was royal! I actually drink 5-6 cups of Green Tea a day, as suggested by my doctor. Green tea reduces inflammation, it's filled with antioxidants, increases fat burning, and on and on. I also love black tea. When I want a special treat, I order Tea Forte. It's an exceptional tea experience. I first learned of the brand at The Ritz Carlton San Francisco. Any tea lover will appreciate these

 special teas.

Neiman Marcus   or   Horchow

R+Co Haircare

I found a new hair regime! I used Living Proof for several years, and it is really good. But I think hair responds best when you switch things up. I have fine hair, and their Biotin products have done wonders for my hair. The products I use are: Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, the Dallas Biotin Thickening Conditioner,  Dallas Thickening Spray, and Balloon Dry Volume Spray (my fave). I love it all.

Dermstore

The Laundress Cleaning Products

Spring cleaning never smelled so good. This is my guilty pleasure. Love the slight fresh scents, without the toxic chemicals. Everything I have tried is wonderful, and really works. I swear by the stain solution. 

The Laundress. or Nordstrom

~ You May Also Love ~

Gifts For Girlfriends

Saturdays At Shop This

Was this a weird week for anyone else? I am happy that it has ended, and looking forward to the weekend. I need a little rest. How about you? Before you get too busy, take a minute and look at the links I am sharing today. You'll find great beauty sales, a really good sunscreen, healthy cookware and more.

Shout out to my sister, Carole, on this National Siblings Day. She lives in Florida and loves the pool, beach, and sun. I think that she and any other sun lover would love Beautycounter's Countersun Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Mist SPF30. The key here, is that this sunscreen is not the chemical kind! And you can save 20% on your first order.

The only sibling of Mr. Shop This, Patti, also lives in Florida. She, too, loves the sun, and a good tan. I know that she would love Bobbi Brown's Bronze Shimmer Brick. It can be used all over the face or just as highlighter. I also use mine as eyeshadow. It's 25% off this weekend.

Butter London Sale: Have you tried this "good for your nails" polish yet? Now is the time, as you can save 35% on their Spring Collection of nail lacquers and makeup. Use Code: COLOURFUL

Speaking of healthy, have you looked into Green Pan Cookware yet? It's non stick ceramic cookware, that won't add toxicity to your food. Save 30% on sets this weekend. Loving the black and gold.

If you love Missoni Home things, head to Horchow for 25% off this weekend. Love the towels!

Classic Long Sleeve Tunic Dress: A fun dress, especially if you like bright colors. Under $200.

Beauty Deals: 25% off at Bobbi Brown, 30% off sitewide at Marc Jacobs Beauty, and 20% - 30% off at It Cosmetics. Their Celebration Foundation Illumination is my new obsession.

The 15 Second Gratitude Trick That Will Boost Your Mood Daily.

Do you wear headbands? They are all the rage, and I think quite chic. But they are expensive. Here's a good looking one for only $20 at Saks.

Be sure to stop and smell the tulips this weekend.  The French have a saying from the 15'th Century: "Fleuris là où tu es plantée", which means, "Bloom where you are planted." Do that.

XOXOX

Deb

Shop This

 

Foodie Friday: Going For The Green - Salad

 

Every once in a while I ask "Mr. Shop This" for ideas on blog topics. When I asked him about a theme for today's post, his first thought was The Masters golf tournament. I don't know what golf food is, but they are all going for the coveted green jacket this weekend. And that is how we came to salads today. Even the non veggie eater in your life will have to admit, this recipe roundup looks delish! 

Spring Cobb Salad 

This salad gets five forks for presentation and prettiness alone! The fresh herb dressing with Dijon, honey, basil and balsamic sounds fab!

The Modern Proper

Ensalada Mixta

Packed with a punch of Spanish flavors, this is one hearty salad.  You will think you are in Barcelona while eating it. 

Williams Sonoma

Honey Mustard Pretzel Chicken Salad With Avocado & Bacon

Let's start with the fact that these chicken fingers have been coated with pretzel crumbs. Then everything is topped off with a creamy honey mustard dressing. What a flavor combo!

Half Baked Harvest

Roasted Radicchio Wedge Salad

Here's a new take on a classic, but sounds even better! It's topped with a balsamic vinegar reduction, walnuts, blue cheese, and parsley.

Foxes Love Lemons

Kosterina Olive Oil and Flavored Balsamic Vinegar Set

Crafted in small batches. The olive oil is said to be buttery with a slight peppery finish. Then you select either a Fig or Chocolate Balsamic to pair with it. It's a beautiful set, and a great gift for the foodie. Ships for free from...

HSN

Spring Nicoise Salad
This stylish salad features all the colors of Spring. The photo doesn't show seafood, but of course, you can add tuna, salmon, or even chicken
How Sweet Eats

Christo House Salad

At a restaurant, I always pass on the "house salad." A bowl of lettuce with a plain vinaigrette is just too boring for me. It doesn't take much to make a creative salad. Heather proves it with this delicious looking recipe.

Heather Christo

Reactive Glaze Salad Bowl

The Dusty mint color is so very pretty. Dare to be different, and think outside the wooden bowl.

West Elm

Blueberry Almond and Goat Cheese Salad

If that title sounds delicious to you, how about adding a blueberry balsamic vinaigrette? This salad is meant for sharing! YUM.

Simply Scratch

Strawberry Spinach Salad

A stunning and healthy salad that is really easy to put together. That soft goat cheese seals the deal.

I Food Real

OXO Steel Salad Spinner

I have always wanted one. It's about time that I do something about it. This model gets rave reviews.

Sur La Table

Spring Roll Salad

With Spicy Peanut Dressing

One could call this the lazy spring roll recipe. Those rolls take quite a bit of time to create, but this salad comes together in 15 minutes. Unique and sounds amazing!

A Beautiful Mess

Shrimp Caesar Salad Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

The most appealing recipe of the mix in my humble opinion. It's a healthy complete meal recipe.

Running To The Kitchen

Spicy Southwestern Salad With Avocado Dressing 

This recipe featuring roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, lettuce, and creamy avocado dressing, has my name written all over it. A must make!

A Pinch Of Yum

Balsamic Drizzles

The perfect addition to salads, cheese, meats, and veggies. These delicious condiments have been cast aged and made on the farm. Pick your flavor ~ Roasted Garlic, Whyte Balsamic, or Fig

 and Elderberry. 

Beekman 1802

Hawaiian Tequila Chicken Salad With Pineapple Vinaigrette

This recipe had me at "tequila" which you will find in the marinade. If you can't get away for Spring Break, this salad has all of the tropical feels.

Half Baked Harvest

~ You May Also Love ~

Foodie Friday: 15 Spring Greens Recipes

Elements Of Outdoor Living

Raise your hand if you are ready to get outside. Friends, family, fresh air. Nothing is better. This edit of chairs, dining tables, planters, bars, and benches beckons you outdoors. Enjoy the inspiration.

Huron Lounge  Chair & Ottoman

This chair and it's matching ottoman (sold individually) is easy and elegant. Made to withstand the elements.

West Elm

Montecito Outdoor Armchair

This is a fab find at more than 50% off. It's well suited for both traditional and modern dining. The cushions are quick drying and oh so comfy. It's a style steal.

Williams Sonoma Home

Arina Indoor/Outdoor Bench
Be it the patio, porch, garden path or the kitchen, you'll find a spot for this beautiful bench. It's made of weathered teak with a white rope seat. 

It's fab!

Lulu and Georgia

The Ness Dining Table

Crafted from teak wood planks, this table has a rustic elegance about it. With a parsons table vibe, it works well indoors or out. The chairs shown above are the YLVA Dining Chairs.

Lulu and Georgia

Outdoor Riviera Bar

This outdoor console is always ready for a good time. It has a truly distinctive look and weather proof finish. With details like a teak work space, and water tight bins, for putting beer or champagne on ice, it's a party 

waiting to happen.

Serena and Lily

Studio McGee For Target

A concrete side table and woven throw blanket are extra touches that add a sense of comfort and style to your outdoor space. This collection is affordable and super nice looking

Target

Stockert Geo Rug

Create a modern vibe under foot with this all weather rug. The geo pattern is perfect for porches, patios, and decks.

Crate and Barrel

Morocco Collection

The graphic patterns and natural materials give this collection a real vacation vibe. Staycation anyone?

Crate and Barrel

Tin Plates
Food Safe and fabulous! Upgrade the picnic table with these terrific tin plates. Available in six stylish patterns for mixing and matching. $12 per plate.

Tuckernuck

Teak Beach Chair

Included in the mix especially for my sister, who loves the beach. This chair folds up into a backpack style for walking to the beach. Loving the retro colors and print. 

Serena and Lily

Galvanized Iron + Woven Rattan Beverage Tub

If you plan on entertaining more this year, isn't this a terrific tub? It will add a touch of glam to your outdoor space. 

Shop Terrain

Outdoor Rugs

A fresh take on Persian and printed rugs. Any one of them will add vibrant color from the porch to the patio. They are washable and available in a variety

of colors.

Viva Terra

Shore Poly Terrazzo Planters

Exclusive to CB2 these "stone clone" planters resemble natural stone. The modern conical shape is available in 

three sizes.

CB2

Outdoor Incense

A backyard essential that you didn't know you needed. It will not only fill your outside space with fresh earthy scents, it will also keep it bug free with essential oils. This is what you bring to your next patio party invite. 
Jayson Home

Portia Chairs & Bowman Table

What a fabulous look. The table is a very cool in concrete. The chic chair is created from all weather wicker. Together they make dining outdoors a dream.

Alchemy Fine Home

~ You May Also Love ~

The Scents Of Spring At Home