Two Months with Home Lattes!

  After a lot of research and a lot of talking, I finally got a Nespresso and Breville milk frother (both on sale!) and built a little coffee nook in my kitchen to make my own lattes at home.  I've had other coffee makers in the past that have just never cut it, and my Starbucks habit was getting out of hand.  
What I really wanted, and how I take my coffee is a shot (or sometimes two) of espresso with steamed milk (and milk alternatives). But I also didn't want a big, messy espresso machine that was too much work to maintain or too long to prepare each morning (as I'm running out the door 5 minutes late).
Many review sites later, talking to friends and trying their different machines I landed on the Nespresso De'Longhi with original pods (they are cheaper than the vertuo pods) that is slim enough to not take up a ton of space, but has a reserve of water on the backside so I don't have to fill it every time.  I love how fast the machine heats up (25 seconds!) to make my quick espresso (there is also a coffee "lungo" option).
Another important component to making a latte - a milk frother (and warmer!).  I did a ton of research on this, too, and Breville brand was the best hands down.  The Breville BMF600XL Milk Cafe Milk Frother is as easy as a push of a button to getting the perfect milk froth. And you can make a single to a few cups worth at one time. 
Both of these machines have lived up to the research hype and my expectations. In fact, after two solid months of drinking a homemade latte 6 times a week, I grabbed a Starbucks while out running errands last week and was appalled.  The taste was bitter and almost-burnt tasting. I wasn't used to that, and must say, my homemade lattes have been super smooth.

I've tried oat milk, dairy milk and almond milk - all work well with different frothing amounts pending the milk. I even played with using chocolate almond milk for a chocolate latte. I added cinnamon and a bit of vanilla to the milk, too.

The Breville frother comes with a cappuccino and latte (or hot cocoa) blender so you can control the froth (more with the cappuccino blender). 

For the most efficient latte making (again, as I'm running out the door), I have my little station with my machines on a tray with my cups (both mugs and to-go) right above and the Nespresso original pods right below. I also keep the Nespresso bag in that drawer to send my used pods back in which they recycle. 

With your Nespresso machine, they send you a sample pack of pods. And my first order, I ordered a variety to find my favs. So far, I'm loving the Vanilo, and when I want a stronger kick - the Ristretto is their dark, intense blend.  I strongly recommend the flavored variety and best sellers sample packs for a better variety (or to learn what your favs are).

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Quick Non-Invasive Eye & Neck Lifts

 

  I have a slight hooded eye lid... It runs in my family, and I see a more dramatic hood coming for me as I get older.  So when Contours RX asked if I wanted to try a quick, easy and non-invasive eye lid lift product, I said heck yes! LIDS BY DESIGN is medical grade, hypoallergenic and latex free strips that you use to lift your excess skin temporarily. 
There are several sizes depending on how much extra skin you have, and if you're not sure, there is also a variety box. I don't need as much of a lift yet, so the 3mm works for me - just to give me a slightly more open eye, especially on those days I'm extra tired.  I see myself mainly wearing for special occasions or extra puffy/sleepy days, but it's a great eye opener!  
Below you will see my before pics and then my after!

Another product they sent me was the NECK RESCUE. This was even easier to use! You simply use the skin-like technology strip on the back of your neck. It blends right into your skin and is not even noticeable.  This is one of their newer products, and is great if you have extra skin around your neck, or loose skin (something I'm sure I'll start to see as I get older).

I love that these are simple, affordable and non-invasive options for women, especially if their confidence is waning because of access or loose skin.  I also think women are just as beautiful if they don't want to worry about the loose skin, too! But it is great to have options for whatever YOU need to feel your best. :)
Disclaimer: This product was sent to me to try and review, but all my opinions are my own.

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Review: Eye Lash Extensions with Beauty Brands!

 
A couple of weeks ago, I took the plunge and finally got the much heard about eye lash extensions.  Have you heard about these?  In case note, they are false, individual lashes glued to the base of your own and lay gently on top, in between and to the sides (depending on your own lashes). There are many different lengths and styles you can get, even different colors!  And your own lash length should be taken in consideration when deciding on the length, too!
I went to Beauty Brands (in Kansas City, the Plaza location), and found them to be really knowledgeable on the process, service and recommendations. After they examined my eyes and lashes, we talked about my style and routine + desires and wishes for my lashes. Because my natural eye lashes are actually kind of long (just see through apparently!), I was able to get the longest extensions!  I didn't want to have to wear mascara - I just wanted long, darker lashes that framed my eyes.  And I got just that.  
To get your lashes done the first time, you'll want to block off at least 2 hours, maybe more if you want to talk it through more in depth first. You can also test the glue they use prior to going all in.  Beauty Brands told me that some glues can cause allergic-like reactions.  They use a glue that is a bit safer and causes less reactions.  They also recommneded taking a daily allergy pill if you think you might have a slight reaction.  I have sensitive eyes, so something I was worried about. Thankfully, I didn't have an issue!
I love the look, especially when compared to my au natural before look (I don't even see lashes!) to the after look immidiately following my appointment (still no make up!):  

I have to say, at first I was worried about the 2 hour time frame. I am way to busy for that!  They tape your lower lashes down to keep them from getting glued to your tops and you have to keep you eyes shut the whole time! But I actually enjoyed it... mainly because I fell asleep and actually got a nap, but also it was a time I couldn't do anything, especially check my phone! ;)
They used different lengths of lashes on me to make a feathered out look, and I feel like they still look natural - just a really good (maybe slightly exageratted) natural. haha!
After the initial full set, it is a bit easier to maintain with 45-60 minute apts every 2-3 weeks.  It depends on how well you take care of them and your own lash natural growth how long they hang on!  So taking care of them at home is part of the maintance.   Some tips that Beauty Brands gave me:
- Don't scrub at your eyes or get them exsessively wet. - Gently wash your eye lids with Bliss Lid & Lash Wash (no oils) or baby shampoo. - Dry your eyes immidiately with a tissue (not a towel wich can pull your lashes) or hair dryer. - Brush your lashes out every morning and night with lash brush - and clean it too.

So overall, and after 2 full weeks with eye lash extensions, I highly recommend them!  They have made my morning routine so much simpler! My eye lashes transform my whole face and look so much better than my best day with mascara - so I hardly wear any make up at all.  
I plan to get them filled, but we'll see how long I keep them up. I might just do them a couple chunks of time throughout the year so I don't get toooooo used to them. ;)  But we'll see!  Do you have lash extensions or have tried them in the past? Curious your experience and thoughts on upkeep!
Special thanks to Elizabeth of Elizabeth Ladean Photography for some of these pics!
This post is in partnership with Beauty Brands.  A one-stop shop of all your beauty, hair and service needs for guys and gals! I love the Plaza location (so close to me!) and it's beautifully newish (a year or so ago) look.  You have to check it out!

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My First Time with Stitch Fix!

I've been curious about Stitch Fix for awhile now, but never moved forward with trying it out because I like shopping and my husband would say, I don't need a monthly shipment of clothes.  Both fair - and what I have now discovered about Stitch Fix is that it's a lot more customizable than I had thought! You can schedule your Fix shipments way out - picking the frequency or just scheduling when you might need some new pieces (like the change of a season).  
And as for shopping - to be completely honest, I hardly ever get out to shop, and the majority of my "shopping" is done at 11pm online, or when I see something the catches my eye on Instagram or blogs. I'm always on the hunt for unique pieces that don't look like everything else out there - and Stitch Fix really offers that.  So it doesn't have to completely replace your love for shopping, but it's nice to get things you may not have found yourself or even though about.
I also LOVE that they have accessories and shoes - which are two things I don't shop enough for. You can tell your stylist things that you are specifically looking for if you have a need. So for me, I mentioned flats I could wear to work and out and a necklace (that wasn't too chunky, but not too subtle).  They were spot on with what they sent me:

So, I styled the accessories easily with things I had already had.  They also sent a few clothing pieces, but I decided not to keep them, and sent them back in the ready to go, pre-paid return envelope. Each time you do a Fix, you can describe what you did and didn't like about what you got - making the next time even better!  They get to know you and send you stuff that is more likely to be great for you, but also with no pressure to keep it all. 

And good news!  Stitch Fix if hosting a lovely contest in honor of Mother's Day. From Monday May 2nd at 9 am PST through Sunday May 8th, they are celebrating the most important woman in your life. Whether she’s your mom, aunt, sister, teacher or best friend, she supports you through life’s successes & setbacks with unconditional love.

Share how she’s positively influenced you for a chance to WIN a trip to San Francisco, a styling session (you get to keep the clothes!) & a photoshoot at Stitch Fix HQ. This is for YOU & the woman you choose to mom-inate!

Here’s How It Works:

1. Enter your first name, last initial & email in the entry form found on the Stitch Fix Facebook page.
2. Submit your story. Tell us about a time when this person coached you, mentored you or made some profound impact in your life.
3. Share your entry on Facebook & Twitter, encouraging friends & family to vote for you. More votes will increase your chances of getting picked!
4. We’ll select our favorite story & contact the winners via email on May 9th, 2016.

{Outfit Details: Shirt (similar here and here), Skirt, Necklace & Shoes c/o Stitch Fix, Sunnies}

The entire Mamas & Minis Style Collective team was excited to be apart of this Month's Stitch Fix review + share this awesome giveaway in honor of Mother's day. Make sure to check out the posts from Sandy, Laura and Carly for their reviews of their Stitch Fixes!

AND for an even more interactive space to ask questions in real-time - you are invited to join our new Facebook group (just request to join, and we'll approve you).   This is a space for mamas where we can discuss the latest trends for both mama and littles, and we'll be sharing the best sales/deals weekly!  It's all about celebrating motherhood, which doesn't mean loosing yourself.  

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Hair Recovery with Living Proof

I'm in, what I like to call, hair-transition. I'm trying to grow it out, so it's lacking any shape or style and I'm trying to heal the split ends and dry, damaged strands, so using less heat.  So, I have also been trying different products to see what might do the trick - I feel like I have so many hair issues, I don't even know what to concentrate on.  There are so many products out there for one specific thing (like frizz!), but I have several concerns (frizz being just one of them!).
So, I was really excited to try out Living Proof's product selector tool that helped guide me to the products I most needed, and then also help me purchase a complete hair care system that answers all my hair concerns! I might have done the quick quiz-like program several times just to see different options for different needs - they have lots of great options for all kinds of hair issues!
Want to know what I ended up with?
Well, I'm most excited about the Restore Mask Treatment that is for dry and/or damaged hair (ding, ding, ding).  It smells really good and after one use, my hair felt softer!  I'm excited to keep using it and see how it can help me further through this hair-transition of mine.
I also got the No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner.
Perfect hair Day Nightcap and Dry Shampoo.  
I'm am now a new user of Living Proof, which is co-owned by Jennifer Aniston (and her hair always looks dang-good).  I love that they don't use conventional materials to coat your hair - like silicone and oils, but their own, developed and patented molecules.  Their system creates an invisible and thin layer around each strand - which allows your hair to become healthier over time. You can read all about their science here.

I don't even have to forgo my hair-routine while I'm traveling, which has been too much lately - and where I think some of my current hair issues have come from.  I picked up Living Proof's No Frizz Travel Kit and got it just in time for last week's work trip. 

And here's how my hair is looking after only a few weeks!

I can already seen a reduction in broken hairs that stand up off my head.  Like 85% less! And my ends are looking less frayed. I'm excited about the progress already.

{Outfit Details: Cardigan, Pant, Booties}
I'm only a couple weeks in to using these new Living Proof products, but I'm already feeling my hair respond!  It's definitely less frizzier,  but it also doesn't feel as dry and looks a ton smoother!
This post is in partnership with Living Proof, but all opinions are my own - and I'm so excited to share this hair-transforming product with you guys!

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Mommy Mailbox: A Treat for the Mamas (+ Giveaway)

I love getting packages delivered to me at home - that's probably why I do 85% of my shopping online, but it's even better when those packages are surprises!  Mommy Mailbox is a monthly subscription service that delivers a box of a variety of full-sized products that are curated just for the busy mama!  
I was SO excited to receive October's box to my doorstep, filled with full-sized products that really seemed like gifts to help me in some way or fun indulgences.  And each month is different, curated by different people with different focuses. You can take a peek below to see what I got!
But first - along with the #MamaDaughterStyleSeries crew, we're hosting a GIVEAWAY on Instagram (starting later this evening) for one lucky winner to receive a Mommy Mailbox of their own (a value of $55-85, varies per month)!  Watch for that post on Instagram this evening!

I just adored everything in this box!   You can get all the details of what was in my October box (as shown above) right here.  But here is a quick highlight:
- FatLash Volumizing Mascara: my very favorite beauty product!  And I already love this stuff - lengthens and separates my lashes perfectly! - Adorable Oui Oui gold foil print: I plan to hang this in my family room! - Weekly Menu Pad: Such a great way to get my weekly dinner's organized! - Carmel Sauce: time to dip some apples... - Cozy white, black and gold scarf: can never go wrong with one of these and I love the pop of gold woven in!

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Must try: bareSkin foundation

I have about 1.25 minutes to slap on some makeup in the mornings before I dash out the door, most always running late.  So, I'm always up to try a new product that solves multiple issues.  Meet bareSkin pure brightening serum foundation broad spectrum SPF 20. Yes, that's a mouthful, for it has everything you need in one product to cut down on many other steps. But what I might love even more is what it doesn't have... no oil, no silicone, no parabens, not watered down, no fragrance - just the bare minimum to leave your skin looking flawless.  
I typically hate foundation and use tinted lotion or CC cream instead, then spend too much time applying concealer to all those spots, dark circles and imperfections that cover my face. To me, foundation is a pain to put on, taking too much time to get it right as to not leave a ring around your face.  I just never mastered this.  Well, this new foundation has been in the works for 20 years, from the company, bareMinerals, that said they'd never do foundation because of all the chemicals you have to put into it.  This breakthrough tone-correcting mineral foundation is unlike anything out there!  It really is a liquid foundation we can all feel good about.
I was thrilled to partner with bareSkin today to tell you what I think from reviewing it the last couples of days.  Plus, you can see how easy it is to apply from the photos below! 

{Does anyone else unintentionally make funny faces while applying their makeup?  I think it helps me get in all those little crevasses. :) I don't even realize I'm doing it!}

{All it takes is 2-6 drops of the foundation (depending on how much coverage you want), and best used with the Perfecting Face Brush (show above!)}
The bareSkin foundation launches May 1st and will be available at ULTA, QVC, Sephora, Macy's, Dillards, bareMineral boutiques and bareminerals.com.  I can't wait for YOU to try it! 
And when you do, please let me know what you think!
Big thank you to bareSkin for sponsoring this post and more importantly, putting such care into their creations.  I'm happy to have this new product as part of my morning routine.

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