Health and Beauty

Baby you can drive my car….

~ jillontoast ~ 2 Comments

To-Catch-A-Thief-Grace-Kelly-and-Cary-Grant

Well, its March. Spring, with all its splendor, is just around the corner. A long time ago I had a fabulous car. My current car is also fabulous, but for different reasons. When I moved to California I came out here with just my car, my dog, and the (19inch) television that my mother insisted she needed binoculars to watch. Do they even make that size anymore? Sort of one step up from “phone” or “tablet” but below a traditional flatscreen? Anyways, I ADORED my car. It was a BMW Z3 convertible that my friends back home referred to as “the shoe”. As I said, this car was FABULOUS. SO MUCH FUN.

Z3
This car was extra special to me. It was the first car I bought with my own earnings (as opposed to borrowing my parent’s car). Once I picked it out, I brought my father to do a final look over (it was three years old, the previous owners 3rd car. He was 6’7″ and could only drive it with the top down, so in Ohio that was like three days a year). My father once had a convertible and loved it. He was so excited for me to have a fun car like this, and to start my new life (and business) in California. It was one of the last things he helped me choose. I loved getting his opinion on things. Not approvals, but opinions. He was so wise. 

When I first moved to Orange County I would take daily drives up and down the coast from Dana Point to Newport and back around. Top down, wind in my hair, salt air kissing my skin, and Janet Jackson on my radio. Paradise. I never got sick of or even used to those views either. The OC coast is probably one of the most beautiful in the world, in my opinion.

Laguna-Beach
From Long Beach to San Clemente, PCH hugs the coastline and offers some of the most spectacular ocean views that I have ever seen. 

I can’t say its been truly “winter” regarding climate.The weather is completely erratic here. Hot, cold, hot, cold. OR freezing in the morning, 90 degrees in the afternoon.  The weather channel is not one to trust for reliability, either. However one trait of winter remains true; darkness at noon is practically a reality in LA until Spring springs into town. Thank goodness its on its way because I have had enough with midnight and am more than ready for some sunshine.

With spring’s approach I’ve been thinking a lot about my little shoe and how liberating a top-down drive felt. In fairness, my thoughts may have also been persuaded by the 80’s rock icon/gym buddy whose been talking with me about his brand new corvette convertible (so exciting).

Along with the fun, there are some (first world) “issues” that arise when one drives with the top down. Namely:

convertableHair

How To Avoid A Hairtastrophy And Other Negative Top Down Ramifications:

  1. The Hair Wrap– First and foremost its imperative we classy women maintain hair integrity. Especially if the convertible joy ride is with a date! Plus HELLO, if your driving you have to be able to see!
LowBunHeadband
This low bun with a head band is so simple and classic beachy. A great way to go.
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I love the low bun wrap. This blogger said the one photographed is a pre-made wrap that she literally bought at CVS. She also mentioned it can be replicated using a tank top! I’m going to have to try that out. 

 

2. Don’t forget your SPF. Anyone in this day and age that does not use SPF is an idiot. I’m sorry to be judgmental, and I know a tan looks great, but its STILL better to use SPF and a bronzer. Protect your skin people.  Actually lets make this: DON’T FORGET YOUR SPF!!! 

My esthetician recommends these Sunblocks by MD Solar Sciences. They are all natural and approved by the american dermatological society as safe and effective.

SPF30
This mineral tinted cream contain’s skin nourishing ingredients. With its nice finish, it can be used as a primer under foundation or alone. SPF 30.

 

SPF50
This silky feeling creme is also full of skin nourishing goodies while simultaneously blocks all the negative affects of sun exposure. SPF 50.

3. Sun Glasses.  Protect your eyes too. Also because who doesn’t want to look like Jackie-O or Grace Kelly when going for a joy ride?

SunniesGivenchy
Danielle is recommending these adorable sunnies by Givenchy. I love how they have the peek-a-boo crystals over the top, so when you coyly lower your head and lift your eyes, your date is bedazzled by this little secret. I love anything with a secret :). Sunnies available via Danielleseligson_klein@s5a.com

 

dior
I also adore these Dior sunnies. They definitely are reminiscent of something Grace or Audrey would wear while looking chic in their head scarf with the top down.  J’Dore Dior 🙂

 

DiorDanielle
Danielle is obsessed with this Dior twist on the classic Ray Ban’s. These will be huge this summer and probably next.

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What The Heck To Wear To Go Cruisin’ In A Convertible:

Option A: Spring

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After much hemming and hawing (between two different sneakers) I am obsessed with these slip ons. MSM hates them but whatever. They are SO comfy but still have edge. LOVE! Jacket: IRO  Tank: Wildfox  Shorts: One Teaspoon  Sneakers: Mui Mui

Option B: Summer

ConvertableOutfit
I feel like this is cute for a summer drive. Shorts: Joie  Blouse: Equipment  Sandal option: Fendi  Sneaker option: Mui Mui

Here’s an idea- lets rent a convertible for a day! Its more affordable than buying one and allows an opportunity to feel the joy!

PS I also hope I get to go for a spin in Rock Star’s new ride. #bucketlist.

xoxo

QJ

QJ

Fifty Shades of Red (lips), or at least Five.

~ jillontoast ~ Leave a comment
Gene-Tierney-makeup-1940s
The stunning Miss Gene Tierney sporting resplendent red lips.

I may have retired my makeup artist hat, but the cosmetics lover in me has not gone to rest. One of my all time favorite looks is the 1940’s clean face with classic simple eyes (mascara, maybe thin liner, or perhaps even no eye makeup), a softly enhanced brow, and a red lip. The look is just so stunning and demure. I’ve decided I single handedly want to bring back this style of simple beauty. And what better time to discuss red lipsicks than right around Valentine’s Day? Perhaps you will be inspired…..

Valentine’s Day Red:

Oddly I always thought Valentine’s Day was actually connected to a massacre in Russia back as far as maybe the early 19th century. I could have SWORN my 10th grade European History teacher taught us something about that. And I assumed the popularity of “red” on that day was actually related to blood and murder and that the whole holiday was a scam devised by the American government as a way to rev up some rigamarole in the economy. I just looked it up and, according to Wikipedia, Valentine’s Day IS related to a massacre but, according to US history,  it was some shooting involving the infamous mobster Bugsy Malone c1929. If anyone finds anything about the former massacre, please by all means, tell me!

Digging deeper, my search revealed that the ACTUAL St. Valentine was a man who secretly helped young soldiers marry their loved ones. The head priest of the time was deterring marriages with fears that married soldiers didn’t fight as well because they would be afraid to die and leave their loves behind. In this notion, St. Valentine IS a romantic. An advocate of love and, apparently, monogamy. At least with this story the love on valentine’s day thing makes sense.

Why the history lesson? I was trying to figure out why the color red exemplifies love. I still believe its blood shed. Or perhaps its more connected to the blood that flows from your extremities to your heart and back?

All that aside,  for whatever reason, nothing says Valentine’s day more than the color red (or pink, or orange, or some other hue/value/intensity of the color) and I thought it would be fun to share my five favorite red lipsticks.

What the heck to wear for Valentine’s Day?

Why red lips of course! And, per your partner’s request, possibly nothing more or nothing less!

TheCulpritsTogether
Pictured from Left to Right: Tom Ford Crimson Noir, Tom Ford Cassablanca,  Armani #403, Bessame Cherry Red, Chanel gloss Spark (in the front row, of course!)

Tom Ford 03 Cassablanca:

This is the most subtle of my reds. Not the greatest for Valentine’s day per se, but a nice shade for an every day look in fall/winter.

Tom Ford 11 Crimson Noir:

Loving this one that Danielle actually just introduced me to. A great classic red.

Armani  #403:

This is my go-to red. I’ve been using it for years. I love the color! Its just the right shade for most of my moods. It goes on so well and is dramatic without being overbearing. I also love that its a true long wear color without being drying.

Chanel Gloss 04 Spark:

LOVE! There’s nothing more to say. This is a fantastic color on its own or over any other lip color. It is a bit goopy though, as glosses tend to be.

Bessame c210 Cherry Red:

I discovered this lipstick at a costume store, of course. Its the closest I’ve ever come to finding a true 1940’s red. The lipstick itself is not very creamy. As a result its a very long-wear red (will last through a meal) but its  somewhat difficult to put on, and is also pretty drying. But I love the look of it, as in person it skews a bit vampy. Definitely a great choice for drama.

Speaking of drama….lets discuss the cupid’s bow.

 

 

Enhancing the Cupid’s Bow:

The Cupid’s bow is the V shaped area in the center of the upper lip directly beneath the nose. I just love that its called “cupid’s bow” and thought it would be fun to write about it for Valentine’s day.

This look was popular in the 20’s (shaping the lips like a heart) and then again in the 50’s (with more elongated outer edges). Over-drawing via use of the cupid’s bow is a great way to embellish a pouty lip or improve upon the fullness of a thinner lip.

Here’s my real-time attempt:

CupidsBowECU
Drawing in the cupid’s bow is definitely easier with a lip pencil. Here I used the edge of the lipstick. Doable, but not great.
CupidBowMed
The end result. And me attempting to look sultry. Pictured here is the Bessame Cherry Red.

In case you want to try this at home, here’s directions on a more 50’s look:

How-to-Create-the-Perfect-Cupids-Bow-bp
Photo grabbed off Pinterest.

Interesting fact: In classical mythology,  cupid is the god of desire and erotic love. He is often portrayed as the son of Venus (goddess of love) and Mars (god of war).

Some people, actually MOST people, get all stuck on “what red looks good on me”. Honestly- they all do Huneys! Red is a bold statement. So if its an orange red, or a blue red, or even a black red….just pick the one you like for the mood your in and ROCK IT.

Time to go put on some red lips and kiss someone!

Mwah!

SWAK.

QJ

QJ

 

 

 

 

Spring Obsessions

~ jillontoast ~ Leave a comment
Spring-Colours-Wallpaper
Two weeks into Winter and I’m already ready for Spring and her luscious bouquet. Empress Splendor Trees photo from google images.

Have you ever felt like you have so much to do that you know you wont finish it, so you don’t want to do it at all? Well, that’s where I am right now. So in an attempt to set myself up to focus I poured myself a huge cup of coffee and then drank the huge cup of coffee. As I sit here shaking from too much caffeine, I’m using my nervous energy to create a list of my current spring obsessions.

  1. Christian Louboutin Nail Polish: I have NO idea why this polish is set at the steep price of 50$ BUT the company did an amazing job at package design because for some reason I want a bottle. Look how cool it looks! Never mind the color inside, and that nail polish eventually goes bad. Having this piece of artwork on my dresser would just make me so happy:

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2. The Celine Nano: How cute is this bag? I die. I have a thing for tri color anyways (see photos of my dogs) so this would fit into my family very nicely.  Not sure if this is a fad or a phase, but I truly covet this bag.

 

CelineNanoTRi
How cute is this? I can’t stand it. And I happen to love the size. Just big enough to fit exactly what you need, small enough that things wont get lost at the bottom.
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Here it is with snakeskin as the brown. Lovely and rich. Though I fancy the one above the most.

3. Chanel Espadrilles: I have to admit I may break my resolution (already) regarding buying things this year because I LOVE these shoes. With a price point of under 400$ for the canvas ones, considering they are Chanel, its easy to rationalize the purchase. I mean they will last (Chanel shoes are made particularly well), AND I can wear them traipsing all around Italy when MSM and I go on our adventure later this summer 🙂

SONY DSC
Here are the all leather Chanel Espadrilles, a bit pricier than the canvas ones shown below. 
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I actually prefer these canvas ones. They are hard to find because they sell out so fast.

4. Sun dresses: Lets face it, spring is just around the corner and I’m already craving some new sun dresses. To stay true to my goal for the year, I WILL only buy a few in exchange for consigning a few. I have some cute Parker sunnies that I’m ready to put to rest.

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Neither of these have had Danielle’s stamp of approval, but I love them. Particularly the second with the peacocks print. I Winter has been here for about a month and I’m already ready to put the booties and sweaters away. **Danielle does not love these 😦 

5. New Ear Candy: I mean OBVI the ear cuff is a fad, and I’m sure I can find something snazzy at Bauble Bar for a better price but I’m slightly obsessed with these at Saks:

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LOVE this ear crawler by Jacqui Aiche. Its ridiculously expensive but oh so beautiful. It reminds me of stars in the midnight sky.

 

 

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These by ABS seem a close second to the one above, and at a fraction of the cost may be worth the buy.
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And speaking of stars in the midnight sky…..i love these (also by ABS). Probably not at all in style, they’re just fun.

I wonder if Danielle would approve of any of these things. I do have a gift card arriving soon….

Okay, now off to work…..

Toodles!

xoxo

QJ

QJ

Its in the bag. The VIP gift bag!

~ jillontoast ~ 2 Comments
giftbag
The coveted gift bags at reserved seating.

We all know about the highly coveted celebrity VIP  gift bags at all the Oscar after parties, right? From what I’ve read, these bags can contain high priced gifts ranging from vats of LaMer beauty cream to the latest and most current IPhone or some gadget worthy of James Bond. Gift bag distribution isn’t limited to award ceremony after parties though. They exist at benefits, big shin digs where the host/hostess wants to show off,  I can imagine theres an exchange when celeb “friends” meet for lunch (or when they meet with their agents)- who knows?

What I DO know is that over the past year I have acquired (on a watered down scale) quite a nice collection of gift bags. I’m no celeb so OBVI my bags are on a different level than the “big wigs”. BUT I believe mine must be a close variation on a theme , so I thought I’d share with you whats in them! Alas I have not been gifted with technical devices or cool spy toys. Instead I now have a plethora of makeup and beauty products by companies I never would have heard of had I not been in the right place at the right time. Nail polish, lipsticks, eye makeup, cleansers, giftcards for manicures at the most luxurious nail castles…the list is extensive. As a philanthropic study, I had planned on walking around Santa Monica donating the various treats to homeless women, but, in fear of a not so welcoming acceptance of said gift, I though it would be fun to review and compare some of the beauty products here.

BeautyProducts
Whats in the bag? A princess’ dream…tons of beauty products!

Murad Skin Smoothing Polish:

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Murad’s skin polish, with its pleasant aroma, gives a firming affect.

This exfoliant has a lovely hint of sweet berries in its scent. It feels pretty coarse to the touch. Once applied it feels like little seeds scrubbing. I feel it was less intense than one of those clarisonic brushes, but still pretty strong. After rinsing,  my face felt fairly clean but in need of a rich moisturizer. The instructions say to use this product three times a week. I feel this product would work well for someone with oily to combo skin. It could help with skin cell turn-over, which can be lost or lessen as we age. Its a bit intense for sensitive skin like mine.

Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser:

sukiPot
I would have NEVER heard of this product had it not been in my gift bag. This one was a pleasant surprise. For more info click here: Suki Skincare

Not knowing at ALL what to expect, I was really impressed with this product. Just like many other amazing things that I love,  Suki comes from Northampton, Massachusetts; home grown in the good ‘ol USA. It is a 100% natural and organic. Free of parabens, gluten & synthetics of any kind,all the Suki products are safe for everyone- including breastfeeding and pregnant women. Another bonus: no animals or bees are harmed in their creation either.  I’ve tried other organic products from the Whole Foods skin care isle (eyes roll) and they have mostly been pretty bad, so I admit I was a bit hesitant with this one. However, the exfoliate is seriously amazing. I actually want to look into trying her other creations.

sukiECU
It appears this product would be very coarse and damaging to the skin. Looks can be deceiving because in actuality the exfoliant was luxuriously foamy and gentle- yet very effective.

The Suki exfoliate has a citrus smell. The directions explain: wet a small amount of product in your palms and then apply to face and decollate. The scrub is extremely gentle. After a rinse my skin felt clean, fresh, and baby soft. After using this product for a week (3x/week), I noticed my naked face looked naturally brighter. I’ve even been receiving compliments that I’m”glowing”. No, I’m not pregnant. This may also be from my moisturizer (see Doc Schwab below). I believe the exfoliant is also prepping my skin so that I can get the full effect of my moisturizer.

Panthenol Cleanser:

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My favorite little blue cleanser. Back in the day my grandmother told me “the best way to wash your face is with plain water. Everything else is full of chemicals and will ruin you.” I never feel concerned with the Panthenol cleanser though. It leaves the skin feeling fresh and hydrated.

This was gifted by a local esthetician and honestly, I LOVE this product. I can’t thank her enough for tossing this into the bag. And its a full sized bottle at that! I feel extra lucky!! Apparently this cleanser is loaded with Vitamin B5 which acts as a hydrator WHILE cleansing (as opposed to stripping the skin, like most cleansers). This is self-evident. After washing with the Panthenol my skin felt fresh and supple but also clean. It has a light fresh scent. I love when products have minimal smell because to me it means, there are less harsh chemicals added. I recommend this product to anyone, any age.

Doctor D. Schwab Flawless Skin Fluid amd CS Citrusome:

schwab
Facelift in a tube. Everyone needs to try this stuff! I’m hooked! For more info click here: Doctor Schwab. Tammi, the skincare specialist, is a doll. Definitely hit her up with any questions.

I honestly had no idea what these products were meant for but I ran out of my daily moisturizer and via the ingredients (and the fact I had it laying around) I decided to give this duo a try. I assumed the Citrusome is a Vit C serum, which I put on after my morning cleansing, followed by the Skin Fluid (moisturizer?). I am loving the “moisturizer”. It is very lightweight and non-greasy. My favorite part? It is shimmery! I haven’t put on foundation since the day I started using this. It reflects the light so nicely, I haven’t needed it! This stuff is like a facelift in a tube. I read a little about it and it appears this line is also all natural- though I’m not sure its to the same extent as Suki. Via their website, I contacted the Doctor Schwab “skincare specialist” and she was very helpful, as well as budget conscious,  regarding what Dr. Schwab products would work well for me. I like their costumer service and this particular product, so I’m giving the brand a recommend.

Hopefully I’ve satisfactorily unveiled the mystery of the VIP gift bag and all its contents. That is all for today. I’m finally coming off this dreadful stomach bug! The biggest casualty of the bug? I am now certifiably addicted to The Vampire Diaries! So…off I go….to finish up season one of this enslaving little devil.

xoxo

QJ

QJ

Lets browse some brows.

~ jillontoast ~ 5 Comments

BROW

My heads a little all over the place this week. Who knew that wearing 5 inch heels could throw a persons back out?? Oh the pain! But they are such cute booties! There MUST be a resolution. I can’t just put them out forever into the great wide shoe pasture  (ie consignment). I’m just not ready for that….

As I try and think of solutions and wait for the Advil to kick in, lets discuss the eyebrow.

Back in my past life -26 years ago – when I was first learning how to be a hair/makeup artist (my erstwhile claim to fame) I was taught that an eyebrow can “make or break a face”. Since I know my teacher at the time was not the original oracle to speak this expression, I’ve googled “who was the first person responsible” for making this statement and alas, no answer. I didn’t make this up though, nor did my teacher. Its legit. In fact, its SO legit there are apparently countless numbers of articles floating around  internet space containing the exact same words. Nothing says “oh no!” like a mis-aligned brow. Alternatively, with the right brow, every face can be fortunate in the looks department.

What can the right eyebrow shape do for you?

 

Browhaus eyebrow makeovers
If the eyes are the window to your soul, the brows are the curtains. They shouldn’t take a lead role, front and center, but they should support the overall look of the face. Being the supporting actress is tres importante. We need to give them more credit, and special attention. Camilla Belle’s brows perfectly exemplify a beautiful brow. Photo: Google images

When eyebrows are shaped correctly not only can they  enhance or brighten the face, they can also make a person appear younger (cheapest and least painful facelift ever!).

If you play around with brow shape you will notice that a very small change can make a huge difference. I had a friend in college that tried a few different brow shapes before picking one that she felt revealed the true her. Even early on, before I knew I’d be doing hair and makeup, I was intrigued by how different each look was, and how it so greatly changed her appearance. I remember her telling me “eyebrow shape reveals character.” At first I questioned the healthiness of her vanity, but as I watched her work and change, I noticed she was correct. Each shape manifested an entirely different person. I had learned the power of the brow.

LillyCollinsThick
Lilly Collins looks stunning with her thick brows. They fit her face and are well balanced to compliment her beautiful eyes. Photo: google images

With all this in mind, don’t necessarily choose whats momentarily in fashion for the brows (back in the 1990s, thin was in. 1980’s, thick….the fashion changes). Its best to go with a shape that makes you look like the best YOU you can be. This is especially important because there will come a time, if you pluck and shape over years, the hair wont grow back. Trends come and go, but sadly, eventually eyebrow hair does not.

 

Some guidelines for shaping the best windows:

  1. Uni-brow: If you have a uni-brow, follow the inside corner of your eye/tear duct directly up. This is where your brow should start. Any further away from center will look like an unnatural chasm, and who wants the Grand Canyon between there eyes?? Some may argue that a uni-brow gives character, so why not keep it? Sorry friends, unless your Freida Kahlo, The Mona Lisa, or a cave-man, please pluck.
  2. Scarce Brows:   A. If you need to fill your brows in (most of us do past a certain age), don’t match the color exactly to your hair color. If your blonde, feel comfortable going a few shades darker. Dark hair? You can go a little lighter. Red? Use a warm color a bit off from the one on your head. This will appear the most natural. B. When filling in your brow use short strokes as if you are literally drawing pieces hair onto the brow. This will help you avoid those thick penciled in brows that look obviously drawn in. Unless that’s the look your going for- in which case, more power to you. To each her own.

    MeganFoxTHIN
    Megan Fox. Another example of gorgeous brows. Hers are filled in here, but there are still some imperfect hairs that make the brows appear natural. With brows, keeping a little imperfection is key to making them appear natural and not look completely drawn in. Photo: Google Images
  3. Don’t over pluck: I wish I had believed my mother when she told me to be careful with my tweezers. Luckily I feel I usually gave myself a good shape so I’m basically left with a favorable brow that only needs a bit of filling. Just be careful. Mom was right on this one. As stated early, eventually the brows stop growing or thin out.
  4. Test drive a brow: I’ve never done this before but a safe way to try on new brows for size- grab some eyebrow putty. This allows you to cover your brows and draw any shape you want so you can test drive some looks. Could make for a fun evening? Eyebrow Plastic
  5. Correcting a mis-pluck: When I was in high school this boy, Dott Deigle, lost control of the electric razor and accidentally shaved off half an eyebrow. I was so traumatized by this that I’ve never forgotten. Never mind asking how the H someone was capable of doing something so imbecilic, he looked like an alien! The good news- it grew back! I’m adding this to this section in case you mess up on your brows. EVENTUALLY they don’t grow back, but that takes years. So don’t fret if you make a mistake. Click here for some good instructions on how to draw in a brow (I’d explain myself, but this has photos, which helps): http://www.wikihow.com/Hide-or-Fix-a-Shaved-off-Eyebrow 

 

OMG the BEST product for filling in brows:

Dior Brow Styler: By far, without thinking, this is my favorite. It comes in two colors, universal brown and universal dark brown. This pencil is easy to use and literally, it universally looks good. Available at most department stores.

browstyler

Anastasia powder (use her brush with this): This is my second favorite and is what I used in my makeup kit when I was pro.  In my opinion a powder is more difficult to use but this one is very nice and comes in a plethora of natural shades. Use the brush at an angle at the base of your brow and push up. The brush is the perfect size to create a brow. Confused? I’m pretty sure you can buy stick on stencils from Anastasia. I loved those when I used them.

Anastasia2
When searching for a photo of this product I stumbled upon this super easy photo tutorial on how to naturally fill in a brow. Photo: Google Images

Lessons in Brows:

Back when I was attending the make-up academy (yes, this exists), I read this amazing book: The Eyebrow: by Robyn Cosio. If your looking for some fun, light reading, I suggest you check this out. I get nothing from this. I just really love the book.

I have not read this book, but it looks particularly interesting as a guide to your perfect brow and how to shape it: Beautiful Brows  

All right, thats all for now. Happy brow playing!

 

xoxo

QJ

QJ

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Fountain of Youth.

~ jillontoast ~ Leave a comment
Last year I had the honor of attending a back yard performance of La Sylphide by the La Ballet. Beautifully surreal.
Last year I had the honor of attending a private back yard performance of La Sylphide by the La Ballet. Beautifully surreal.

These are words I’ve heard a lot in my lifetime; “But I don’t have time to work out”.  I’ve heard them from my own mouth, my friends mouthes, and random other people’s mouthes. I get it. Believe me- I TOTALLY get it! But as we age, finding time to workout is so imperative to our physical AND mental health.

I recently had to nurse an injury and its interesting how we forget how much better we feel when we’re working out regularly. Its so easy to get in that rut and just be lazy. But honestly, once I started to work out again within a week I started feeling better. After two weeks I started feeling great. And now I feel younger, more awake, more mentally crisp. My friends can attest for the positive shift in my mood. You want to know the true fountain of youth? I think its exercising!

Why do we need to exercise?

Movement keeps us young and happy!  No one says it better than Elle:

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I’m no expert, nor do I truly understand (yet) the science behind it all,  but I’ve been doing a lot of reading on aging and centenarians who have maintained amazing quality of life. One top commonality between these centenarians that differentiates them from others (and their younger counterparts who are not doing so well) is movement. And we’re not just talking scooting your chair from one side of the room to the fridge to grab a beer, but actually getting up, going outside, and going for a walk.

Exercise prevents aging. Its a real-life vampire. Actually even better. Working out slows down the process of aging without making us crave a blood cocktail. When we work out and move our bodies, we increase certain hormones that fight off inflammation, depression, and metabolic dysfunction.

There are many forms of exercise:

You hate the gym? Ok. Who cares? There are SO many ways to exercise. The key is- find something that you love to do that requires movement.

Example: I LOVE ballet. I’m practically obsessed with it. Its definitely an addiction- but its a “healthy” addiction. As long as you find something you really enjoy and look forward to doing, it becomes easier to find time to fit it in.

I wake up super early in order to make it to my 8 am pre work ballet class. As hard as it is to get up, I love ballet so much that I’m able to motivate myself to push through. Once I started back into my workouts,  I immediately noticed that having ballet in my day made everything else less difficult. Things that had been putting me in a stressed out tizzy began just roll of my back. Deep breath and I figure it out. Seriously. Its amazing. (I better read this if/when I get stuck taking another break from my workouts).

Ballet class is the one time during the day when I can (oddly) relax. I allow myself to become one with the music. I shut my mind off from the rest of whats going on in my life and I meditate on dance.
Ballet class is the one time during the day when I can (oddly) relax. I allow myself to become one with the music. I shut off my mind from the rest of whats going on in my life and I meditate on dance. 
Even stretching is a form of exercise.
Even stretching is a form of exercise.

A list of some light aerobic movements you may have never considered exercise (some of these are from an article I found on Nerd Fitness): 

Flying a kite has to count! Its another zen activity that could actually be considered exercise.
Flying a kite has to count! Its another zen activity that could actually be considered exercise.

Hiking/Walking with a friend (this can include your four legged furry friend)– its so funny in LA people consider walking up a hill at Roy Rogers park a hike. haha. For us hiking enthusiasts we know this is just an uphill walk. But whatever – its an uphill walk. Its fun. It gets you out doors. Its exercise you may not hate.

I love going to walk with my beautiful babies, Stanley and Abby. It helps me cleanse my mind to breathe in the beauty of my surroundings and reminds me there's more out there than whatever it is I'm stressed about at the time. Stanley pictured here.
I always look forward to going for nature walks with my beautiful babies, Stanley and Abby. Especially when I’m stressed.  It helps me cleanse my mind. I love to  breathe in the beauty of my surroundings.  I’m reminded there’s so much more out there than whatever it is that is worrying me that day.  Stanley pictured here.

Larping –  Live Action Role Playing.  Might seem silly to those on the outside, but to those playing, it’s an amazing adventure that reminds us how awesome our imaginations are.  Also, depending on the game, you could be wearing a heavy costume, swinging heavy weaponry, and running for your life! – this sounds fun. Uh oh. Sounds kinda fun. Should I try it??

Geocaching – Geocaching is a adventure nerd’s dream brought to life.  Become a real life treasure-hunter (Lara Croft? Nathan Drake? You decide!), and get a great workout in while you’re at it.

Play a musical instrument – Did you know playing the violin for an hour burns about as many calories as walking around a track for an hour?  It turns out our brains can burn boatloads of calories too. So challenge your brain!

Fly a kite– not sure this really counts but seems like it could. Walking to the area you fly it. Standing up and holding your arms up. It has to count!

Sex– I mean, just putting that out there.

This article from Nerd Fitness is actually pretty amazing. For more ideas, read here: 25 ways to exercise without realizing it

I actually was yelled at for taking this pic of the students in the advanced ballet class at my dance academy.
The advanced students at the ballet academy in Burbank.

Want to look and feel cute for your workout??

Having  workout clothes that you feel good in definitely helps motivate! To look chic but not “hi, I’m here to pick up dudes” at the gym, Danielle suggests Michi and Heroine Sport active wear :).

I own these Michi jogging pants. I love them! They are light weight and feel like silk. They wear well during the workout too. And they are super flattering to boot!
I own these Michi jogging pants. I love them! They are light weight and feel like silk. They wick away moisture well and breathe comfortably during the workout too. Also, BONUS! They are super flattering to boot! (and to the bootY! hee hee).
Love this Heroine Sport top! Time to call Danielle.... Active wear available at Saks or contact @styledbydanielleklein for purchasing help.
I am loving  this Heroine Sport top! Time to call Danielle….
Active wear available at Saks or contact @styledbydanielleklein for purchasing help.

So, with all that being said- lets get out there and in the immortal words of Nike “Just do it!’

xoxo

QJ

QJ