1. La Croix Blackberry Cucumber Sparkling Water
Ah, the elusive La Croix Blackberry Cucumber flavor…
FINALLY! My latest expedition to Target was a success. It’s never been in stock when I’ve checked before, but this last time, miracle of all miracles, it was! I spotted four boxes on the shelf at the Novato Target yesterday, but actually, by the time I’d left, there were only two, because right after I rolled up, a hipster-looking dude grabbed one.
If you ever come across a case, grab it. They’re in high demand, and they’re so, SO good. They aren’t really sweet at all. Just refreshing and light with nice notes of blackberry and cucumber.
2. NARS Madly Blush
When in doubt, NARS Madly Blush.
Yes, you can quote me on that, and it’s 100% true. I’ve been wearing this peachy beige blush all week long because the dang thing goes with everything. Seriously! Doesn’t matter what I’m doing with eye shadow or lip color; whatever it is, NARS Madly Blush works.
3. Try this clever lip combo (with Clever): MAC Patentpolish in Clever with MAC In Control Pro Longwear Lip Pencil
This was one of those happy accidents I accidentally stumbled upon. MAC In Control Pro Longwear Lip Pencil + MAC Patentpolish Lip Pencil in Clever = a deep rosy coral combo that looks faboo with neutral eyes and winged liner (it’s what I’m wearing in the pics in this post).
4. Frosted Strawberry Pop Tarts
I feel a little guilty when I eat them because they’re high in sugar and processed, but damn! — they’re so tasty. I like mine toasted with the edges ever-so-slightly burnt, but El Hub prefers them raw, which is very strange to me.
He also practically inhales them. I hear him open the little foil bag, and then it’s like the Cookie Monster for a few seconds and they’re gone.
5. Madonna’s Immaculate Collection
I dug this out the other day, and even after not listening to the album for years, I still know all the words to every song! If you’re a Madge fan, lemme know 1) your top 3 Madonna songs of all time (I know this is hard) and 2) your all-time favorite Madonna video. Let’s discuss the wonder that is Her Madge-esty. 🙂
What are some things you’ve been loving lately? Any new foods, TV shows, books, boots, music, makeup or movies?
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
Ditte K. says
1. Like a virgin
2. Vogue
3. Justify my love
Top video must be: like a prayer
What about you, Karen?
Karen says
Hey Ditte!
This is so hard, but here goes:
1. Holiday
2. Express Yourself
3. Into the Groove
Top video: Borderline.
Rachel says
I saw those new la croix flavors and they looked interesting, but I couldn’t decide on one so I didn’t get any! I was bringing pop tarts to work for a while for my mid-morning snack but I had to quit because I think I was addicted to the sugar!
Karen says
Hi Rachel,
There are a TON of flavors. I started out with a couple recommendations from a friend, and so far my faves are grapefruit, blackberry and cucumber and peach pear. I’ve heard the coconut one isn’t all that, so you might want to steer clear from that one.
denise says
It sounds like your favorites in the LaCroix water are very similar to mine. Another fave for me is Passionfruit. I also liked the Apricot a lot. I expected to really like the Pineapple Strawberry but actually found it sort of blah.
Karen says
I’ve never seen the Apricot! I will have to hunt that down.
Passionfruit is next on my list.
Oh great, now I’m craving one, LOL!
Mary Babicki says
I have been a Madonna fan since I was about 8 years old. LOVE HER. Favorite songs… 1- Like A Prayer 2- La Isla Bonita 3-Power of Goodbye
Favorite Video.. SUPER hard to pick, but Material Girl. I wanted that pink dress!
Karen says
ALL HAIL QUEEN MADGE!!!
I’ve loved her for forever as well. Did I ever tell you that I have Like a Virgin on vinyl? It’s around here somewhere.
By the way, I wanted that pink dress too. And the diamonds. And the gloves!
Renee says
1. Roasted Garlic Bagel chips with roasted red peppers and fresh buffalo mozzarella…omg so yummy
2. Mac Dervish lip pencil with Revved up Patentpolish
3. The App Criminal Case…I love trying to find hidden objects to catch the killer. I’m way too excited about this one.
4. My Steve Madden Grey Distressed Leather Boots
5. Sally Hansen’s Gel-like polishes, I think I have about 20 of them already
Karen says
Ahh, I must find my Dervish pencil so I can try that combo! It went MIA a few months ago. 🙁
So glad you’re liking the Sally Hansen polishes because they’re a fave of mine too. Which shades are your go-tos?
Renee says
I’m loving Pink Stilletto and Redgy. I just purchased Truffle Shuffle & I’m planning on putting that on my digits tonight. 🙂
Karen says
Redgy is so pretty! Love those kinds of reds. Have fun painting tonight. 🙂
Pavithra says
Now I have to get that lip pencil! I wear Clever over Nice n Easy, and it works as a nice nude without washing me out! I also really like what you have on your eyes here!
Karen says
I’ll have to try that combo. Thanks for the tip, Pavithra.
Oh, and re: the eyes — super simple. Just good old MAC Soft Brown in the crease and Ricepaper on the lids. The liner is Carbon. Can’t go wrong with the classics!
Pavithra says
Ah I have all three, will try tomorrow! I’ve always used Ricepaper only as an inner corner highlight. It looks so pretty on your lids!
Chris25 says
Here’s my list: http://themakeuptrain.com/2015/09/12/current-favorites-beauty-and-life-vol-16/
Chris25 says
Here’s my list: http://themakeuptrain.com/2015/09/12/current-favorites-beauty-and-life-vol-16/
Karen says
Thanks for sharing your list, Chris!
Kellie says
Love these lists Karen! That sparkling water sounds yummy.
1.) A Podcast called “Real Ghost Stories Online.” I love all things spooky, and especially in October, need my ghost fix. These are real stories told by listeners of paranormal happenings. So interesting and scary! I also like the hosts- a down to earth couple who just happen to believe in the paranormal!
2.) Swedish Fish- I WANT SOME SO BAD RIGHT NOW! I should not be eating so much sugar, but dang, they are good.
3.) Urban Decay liquid foundation. Love this right now. I still need a good amount of concealer after (acne scars, boo) but it just makes my skin look so alive and even.
4.) Flannels! So glad these are back in style. I feel like I am channeling my auntie in the early 90’s wearing my red flannel with dark leggings and boots! Add mocha lips and it is even better.
5.) Taking pictures! This is something my husband and I have been getting into together and it has been really fun going out and taking pics of the city and the fall leaves!
Happy Monday Karen!
Karen says
Hi Kellie,
That podcast sounds interesting; I love a good spooky story! I’ll have to check it out. 🙂
So, that’s really cool that you and your hubby have started taking pictures together. What kind of camera do you use?
Kellie says
Yeah, check it out, it’s super entertaining! 🙂
We have been using a Cannon Rebel and have loved it! We just bought a wide lens for it, so exciting! We have taken so many pictures over the years that we have decided to start an eCommerce site for selling photos where we (and other artists) can sell their work. We are hoping to launch November 1st!
Karen says
Love the Rebel. I shot with one for years and I learned a lot from it. What kind of pics do you take? I’d love to see your work!
Kellie says
We take a lot of landscape shots, and do some abstract stuff as well. Plus pics from our travel in Europe and Canada. I will send you the link once the site is up! 🙂 You take beautiful pictures as well!
Karen says
Aww thanks! I wish I had more time for photography. It’s one of those hobbies that I accidentally stumbled into and I love it. 🙂
Where have you traveled in Europe? I went once and am itching to go back. El Hub and I visited England, France, Spain and Portugal.
Lulle says
Oh I didn’t know you were supposed to toast Pop Tarts. That’s probably why I found it gross the only time I had one… Not my kind of snack anyway!
Karen says
Try the strawberry frosted ones toasted. SERIOUSLY it is so good!
Alli says
I feel you about the Pop Tarts…I love the cherry flavor and strawberry the best! Slightly burnt is where its at.
I am obsessed with La Croix, almost every flavor has been my jam. The Cran Rasberry is really good, also I love the mango! I know it sounds bizarre, but if you buy a case and you don’t like the flavor straight out of the can, sometimes putting it in a glass with ice makes it better…I know it sounds crazy, but I swear it works.
Karen says
Hi Alli,
I’ve yet to see the Cran Raspberry! I’ll look out for it. 🙂
Have you tried the Peach Pear flavor? I like that one too.
Jess Magnuson says
3 fave Madonna songs: like a prayer, what it feels like for a girl, miles away.
She just played in St paul a week ago and it was bananas!! So amazing! She’s still a Rockstar.
Fave video is…like a prayer, it’s epic!
I am loving the book “fast girl”, it was so interesting, I read it in like 2 or 3 days.
I’m loving red lips and skull earrings.
I’m loving Twix bars and pumpkin spice coffee. I’m loving anything with cats on it, I have a black blouse with cats on it in the mail. I’m loving jewelry and plaid. I’m enjoying grace and Frankie on Netflix. Loving pop tarts as well! Just went through a box of strawberry and just bought red velvet. Also digging bb cushion makeup, especially Laneige’s version at Target.
Karen says
That’s awesome that you saw her in concert! Have you seen her live before?
So, I’m just starting to get into cushion makeup. 🙂 How’s the coverage with the Laneige one?
jess magnuson says
That was my first time seeing her live! She was outstanding ! And she’s 57! She was bold, sexual, flexible and wow worthy !
Laneige’s cushion is awesome,it’s light/medium coverage. It’s comfortable, dewy and makes you look glowy. Plus the spf50 is a nice touch. It’s a great everyday foundation. Feels like you have nothing on. Highly recommend. $34 for a compact and 2 refills.
Karen says
Amazing. One thing I’ve always admired about her is how she works so hard. I read once that she was a workaholic and rehearsal for her tours is the real deal.
I saw her once in Vegas (in 2002? I can’t remember!), and it was one of the best shows I’ve ever seen.
Thanks for the 411 on the Laneige cushion compact. I’m going to look for it when I go to Target. I like the Amore Pacific one but it’s just a touch too peachy for me.
Have a great Wednesday!
LindaLibraLoca says
1) Frozen (which happens to be my favorite video to)
2) Material Girl
3) Justify my love
Janet Shepherd says
Oh I love that rosy lip colour! Gorgeous! Also the nail polish colours you’re rocking here – are they from the Chanel Holiday collection?
Kiss & Make-up says
It’s settled then, Imma need the MAC Clever Patentpolish and the MAC In Control Pro Longwear Lip Pencil.
Lena says
blackberry and xuucumber, whouda thought. you find the strangest combinations, i swear.
my faavemaadge album is ray of light, the most un-madge album of hers i guess. frozen is fave song, the other top 5 songs would be from that album as well.
Kelly B. says
I LOVE La Croix! I swear, I’m addicted 😀 I’ve never heard of the elusive blackberry cucumber flavor, I don’t think they sell it at all near me, I’ve only ever seen three of their flavors.
Jane says
I was never a big Madonna fan, although I am impressed that she is still doing her thing at 57, just one year older than me. The lip combination is similar to the Bobbi shades I wore all summer, natural pink sheer lip color and pink mauve lip liner. I haven’t had a pop-tart since, oh I can’t even think that far back, however, if you want a real treat and have a little bit of time, Trader Joes has these chocolate crossaints (don’t know the correct spelling) that are so yummy. You need to leave them out overnight to rise, bake for 20 minutes a 350 and consume. Just add a little Edith Piaf and you’re in Paris.
Rachel R. says
Top 3 Madonna Songs:
1) Frozen
2) Live to Tell
3) Get Into the Groove
Favorite video: Bedtime Stories. (I also love the videos fro Frozen and Nothing Really Matters.)
Karen says
Hi Rachel,
Ooh, good one with Bedtime Stories. I think I’ll have to add that to my fave Madonna song list. Did you know that it was written by Bjork?
Rachel R. says
Yes — just another reason to love it! The video was on exhibition at the NY Museum of Modern Art and other museums.
Karen says
I think it was one of those songs that was way ahead of its time. Haven’t listened to Bedtime Stores in a minute; I’ll have to break it out tomorrow. Do you remember the song and video Rain? That’s also another one that I think is underrated.
Trude says
That lip combo is gorgeous! Totally going on my list. And never apologize for strawberry Pop Tarts, I would have them every day if I could! 😉 A few things for me:
1) My engagement ring. 🙂 It was my grandmother’s and my mom would wear it fairly often after she died. It’s not huge but beautifully made and just what I wanted!
2) Pepsi Max – it’s zero everything but actually tastes pretty great and has really helped wean me off regular soda. I’ve been drinking it for a couple years now and the cravings really only flare up when I’m hormonal. I tried La Croix but I’ve never liked that mineral-y taste.
3) Beauty Blender Pure – I prefer this to the pink one since there’s no color runoff when you wash it. I don’t know what I was doing before I started using one! Also, Blender Cleanser Solid is amazing and makes it so I can clean it in under two minutes.
4) Cooler weather – it finally got down to 70 in my bedroom! Woooo!
5) Lorac Pro Palette – I finally got the original and I’m obsessed.
Karen says
Hey Trude, When is the big move?
Trude says
Less than a month now – November 17th. OMGOMGOMG *deep breath* We can’t wait!
Karen says
I hope everything goes smoothly. Whatever you do, unpack those boxes first thing when you get there. I still have unpacked boxes here from our move 5 years ago, LOL!
Trude says
Thanks Karen! 🙂
Erin says
1. La Croix in Cherise Limon
2. Ghost Pepper Chips from TJ’s
3. TJ’S Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
4. Trader Joes Autumnal Pasta Sauce
5. Trader Joes Meat Lasagna
The CranRaspberry La Croix is great! I need the Blackberry Cucumber…
Ericca says
I wasn’t allow to listen to secular music as a child or teenager but I snuck the Madonna album that you have pictured above when I was seventeen. I got it from my public library.my top three songs 1. Vogue which is also favorite video 2. Hung up ( that whole album confession on the dance floor is one of my fav albums. 3 papa don’t preach. I didn’t have a secret like a baby but I had a typical teen problem with my dad. Who didn’t?lol.
I’m sheet mask cray cray over here and I been loving clinque moisture surge intense . I love it. ? especially in the morning
Karen says
Sheet masks are awesome, Ericca! Which ones do you like?
Oh, and Vogue is easily top 5 in Madge videos for me! Have you listened to her Bedtime Stories album? I always thought it was underrated. Same thing with Music.
Jennifer says
I love me a good strawberry frosted pop tart but my favorite flavor is probably cinnamon. But they must be well-toasted with a bit of dark edge.
Is this a pregnancy thing for you? I ate a chocolate frosted donut from Dunkin Donuts and a coffee milk for breakfast almost every day during my second and third trimesters. I’d always hated Dunkin Donuts up to that point but when I was pregnant I had to have their frosted donuts.
All hail Madonna. She was and always will be the queen. I think Papa Don’t Preach was my favorite video. My favorite Madge songs: Holiday, Material Girl and La Isla Bonita.
Karen says
LOL, no, Strawberry Frosted Pop Tarts are a lifelong thing. I’ve always liked them!
Great choices for Madge songs and video. Remember Cherish? I always thought the song (and the video) was underrated. Same thing with Bedtime Stories and Rain.