Puttin’ on a happy face with Guerlain Rouge G Le Brilliant in Bee
You’re probably expecting this to be a lead about makeup (a logical assumption), but I spent the better part of the afternoon at my obstetrician’s office today, and I’m a wee bit emotional right now.
Before you jump to any conclusions, it was just a checkup. 🙂 Thankfully everything’s working fine (knock on wood!), but I’ve been thinking a lot about kids lately. The doc looked straight in the eyes and said, “Get cracking.”
It’s weird — sometimes I feel like I’m ready; other times I’m not so sure. To my makeup lovin’ moms out there, how did you know it was time?
After my appointment, I felt like I needed a tube of makeup TLC, and it came in the form of limited edition Guerlain Rouge G Le Brilliant lipstick in B64 Bee.
It’s one of nine pieces in the Guerlain Les Ors Holiday Collection, and — you might want to sit down for this one — it’s priced at a very Guerlain-esque $46 (!!).
This Bee is a creamy, full-coverage (yes!) deep violet with tiny flecks of golden glitter, and it feels like a feather on the lips, ahh…
I’d heard the Rouge G Le Brilliant lippies were long wearing, and this one lives up to the hype. It wears off slowly over about five hours, which usually includes a snack or a meal.
Oh, and the bomb @ss tube! I’ve never seen anything like it before, but it’s also really functional. Guerlain squeezed a mirror in the cap (I LOVE the logo!), and the tube has some heft to it too. Should I ever find myself an unwilling member of a Jersey Shore club brawl, it could double as a weapon.
Kids, violence is NEVER the answer…but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.
This Bee’s no bargain, but she’s dressed to impress, and her long-wearing, pigmented color lasts a considerably long time. If you’re planning to indulge your lips this season, this could Bee (haha!) what you’re looking for.
PRICE: $46
AVAILABILITY: At Guerlain counters and online.
MAKEUP AND BEAUTY BLOG RATING: B+
How was your Monday?
I hope your week got off to a good start. What was the highlight of your day? Mine was a note I got from Christine, a friend of mine from college. We hadn’t spoken in months, so it was really nice to hear from her.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
DonnaN says
Karen, LOVE this lippie on you…….I may put this on my Xmas wish list. I’ve always wanted a Guerlain lipstick, but the price has always scared me away.
I think that it’s AWESOME you are contemplating mommi-dom! Hubby and I have been trying for over 10 years, and after 2 unsuccessful attempts together, this FINALLY happened, when we were LEAST expecting it. Now, that’s not to say that things could happen MUCH faster for you……I had a lot of issues compounded by my weight……once my GB surgery happened, SO MANY health issues resolved themselves, it is AMAZING!! Please keep us up to date on your decision……(((HUGS)))!!!
My Monday was awesome…….I’m slowly starting to network to start freelancing as a Makeup Artist!! I did the makeup for my friends wedding this past June, and I got a request from her sister, who’s a photographer, to freelance for some of her wedding clients, so I’m trying to get my butt moving to get pricing and business cards. I’m thinking about doing this on a P/T basis for after the baby arrives……
Karen says
Hi Donna,
I’m really happy for you! I can’t wait for the day you leave me a comment to tell me about the birth of your little one. 🙂
And that’s FANTASTIC regarding your budding career as a freelance makeup artist. Have you heard about Model Mayhem? It might be a good place to showcase your work and find jobs.
http://www.modelmayhem.com/
DonnaN says
Holy cow, that’s an AWESOME site….thanks for the hook-up!!
Paris B says
This one looks amazing on you! I love Guerlain lippies so this one definitely goes on the wishlist 🙂
Karen says
Hi Paris,
They’re really nice lipsticks. I could easily see how one could get addicted!
Jennifer says
That is a freaking amazing swatch. It looks so smooth and pigmented. I really want one of the Rouge Gs for X-mas!!
You’d be the coolest mommy on the block!
Karen says
Hi Jennifer,
This would be the ultimate stocking stuffer! 🙂
And aww… I would love to be the “cool mom.”
dani@callitbeauty says
wow, this colour is gorgeous! definitely the kind of colour i want to sport, so i may have to find a dupe for it ($46? yikes!).
regarding the baby topic: i don’t have kids myself and don’t plan on it til i’m close to 30; but i think once you have a child, regardless of whether you felt ready or not, the mommy instincts will just kick in.
just my 2 cents :). Don’t sweat it, though; i’m sure you’ll be a great mom!
Karen says
Thanks, Dani (regarding the lipstick and the kid advice). 🙂
If I find a dupe I’ll let you know!
Lucie says
I had been eyeing this colour since it was announced, but now that I’ve seen you rocking it I’ll be racing to the make up counter! I’ve been wanting a Rouge G lipstick foreverrr, think it’s time to pick up this and ‘Greta’. Neiman Marcus does free personalization on some Guerlain products (including Rouge G lippies) which I think is nice. Because that’s what Guerlain is about in the end; making yourself feel extra special. 😛
Karen says
Hi Lucie,
Oh, I had no idea Neiman Marcus did that! I love the idea of getting something engraved on the tube. That’s a touch that takes it to the next level.
Maria says
My god, that is the most perfect lipstick color I’ve ever seen! You look AMAZING!
Also I don’t think you can ever feel 100% ready to have a kid. You just have to take a leap of faith and trust yourself.
Karen says
Hi Maria,
Guerlain can sometimes bring it. It’s too bad it comes with such a crazy price!
Regarding children, trusting yourself to take the leap seems to be the big take home lesson I’ve learned from the comments on this post. Thank you for weighing in… it really does mean a lot.
inaya says
your an amazing and beautiful person; and I’m sure that will translate to all stages of your life. if ever you get too worked up, close your eyes and think about boy talk and all the make-up stories you and your daughter could have 🙂
Karen says
Hi Inaya,
I think you’re pretty darn amazing too. 🙂
That’s a wonderful thing to hope for… who knows?
Beth says
Karen, I have to say, firstly that lipstick looks bea-u-ti-ful on you!
Ever since I started reading this blog (shameless lurker!) I’ve been actively thinking what an amazing mom you’d make. Any son/daughter you could have would be well and truly blessed with you, and you’ve got an advantage very few other moms have, you’ve got thousands of supporters who could support you all the way. I’m seeing mommy faces of the day, pregnancy diaries and more. Sorry if this sounds a bit heavy and all, but I’m sure you’d be the most amazing mom. Good luck with your decision!
Karen says
Hi Beth,
Thank you for this. It always helps to think of the positives, right? Sending you a big hug!
Advah says
The texture and glossy-creamy-ness look amazing, I don’t think I’ve seen that before. Ouch for the price though, but it looks ah-mazing on you!
And huge hugs coming your way for feeling emotional (whether it’s a good or bad emotional state 🙂 ) I feel in those moments hugs can never harm!
No kids myself, but coming from parents who had their first kid at 20 and 23 respectively, I always thought of having children as that thing no one’s ever 100% sure about and that forces you to change your life accordingly, in the most beautiful way. (um, provided you’re in the right relationship..) So hugs again 🙂 and give Tabs a squeeze from me, it never hurts eithers! 😛
(PS: sorry haven’t been commenting much lately, but have I mentioned I got my nose pierced-eek?!)
Karen says
Hi Advah,
Thanks, hon. I needed that hug! Tabs and I send you a huge one BACK!
I was actually wondering where you were so I’m glad to hear you’re doing okay. What made you decide to pierce your nose? I bet it looks cute! Did you go with a stud or a ring? Details, homie!
Advah says
Aw thanks for the hug!
Yes sorry I got super busy (and err, tipsy) over the summer with the Festival and work, then split up with the boy a few weeks ago, and have been recovering since. And that’d also be the main reason why I got my nose pierced – I’d been thinking about it for a while (I don’t have my ears pierced) and it seemed like a good idea then. It’s a tiny gem! Won’t keep it very long though, I found out I’m actually not comfortable with the idea of a piece of metal going through my nose, makes me queeeaaasy…
You’ll see it in my cancer awareness photo 🙂
gio says
That lipstick looks amazing on you! But the price.. ouch!
Karen says
Hi Gio,
I know, the price is totally painful!
Sara says
Pricey, but beautiful! Thanks for the review.
As far as motherhood, I don’t think there’s any way to KNOW. Like someone else said, you just take a deep breath and leap! There’s no instruction manual for when to have children or how to be a mom. We each have to figure it out as we go. I have three and they are the best leap of faith I’ve ever taken. 😀 Whatever you decide, good luck!
Karen says
Hi Sara,
Oh, I would love an instruction manual. Or maybe a step by step list! If only things were that easy. 🙂
How old are your kids?
iliana says
First of all, the lipstick looks AWESOME on you. I wish I could afford it… and pull off a lipstick that dark/cool/vampy. I’m freakishly afraid of non-neutrals though I adore them on others!
As for the baby issue, I think every person who wants to have kids/become a future parent will feel unready once they even entertain thoughts of having babies. I guess it’s natural to feel that way because since you WANT to have kids, you automatically want the best for them too. And even though I’m unmarried with no kids of my own, I have seen how babies have changed my friends’ lives (from those who had them before marriage, to those who got married before having them, to the ones raising the babies on their own), and so far, the resounding reaction to being a parent is fulfillment. 🙂 I think you’re going to be an awesome mom!
Karen says
Hi Iliana,
I totally know the neutral lip color place you’re coming from. You should try some bold colors! Maybe start with a few drugstore shades and wear them around the house so you get used to seeing yourself in brighter/darker lips? You never know what you’ll end up falling in love with.
And thanks for weighing in on the baby issue. It’s given me a lot to think about. 🙂
Have a nice Tuesday!
Tiffany says
Ok, I cannot let myself love this lippie! Too rich for my blood!
I don’t think I ever would have felt 100% ready for kids so I decided to just go for it when I was about 95% ready 🙂 you would make such a fun and amazing mom! Good luck with your decision; I know it’s a tough one!
Karen says
Hi Tiffany,
You’re going to be a fun and amazing mom, too! How are you doing, btw? Are things going smoothly with your pregnancy?
Tiffany says
Aww thank you! I sure hope so 🙂
Things are going really well other than being tired more I am feeling good. And a fun part of pregnancy is that you get to eat more!!
Also wanted to say that I love all NeenaJ’s advice. Make sure you start taking folic acid as soon as you TTC, if you decide to TTC. And be careful with working out – ive heard running is ok for runners but have also heard it’s related to increased risk of miscarriage.
Mel says
The price is a bit too steep for me, but it looks sooo lovely on you! As for making the decision to have a child. I didn’t want one for the longest time and then I thought of how great it would be to have a mini me. And I decided I wanted one before I was 30 so that in my 50″s I could retire (not happening in this economy now) and not deal with teenage kids. LOL I am very blessed to have my daughter, but I think my uterus is on lock down for child #2. In this economy its just so expensive! In addition, how do you truly find time to share yourself with so many kids when you’re rushing off to work, rushing off to daycare, cooking meals, packing lunches, running errands. I’m swamped as it is. I mean, if you can do it, do your thang. But regardless of what you choose just enjoy the process. I loved being pregnant and i loved how it felt having my baby in me. Its a bond and an experience like no other. Good Luck to you my dear Karen.
Karen says
Hi Mel,
Thank you so much for this. It really gives me some food for thought.
How old is your daughter?
saku says
That lipsticks looks amazing in the tube and on you. I like kids, but still unsure. But someday I hope to adopt. You’d make a good mom.
Karen says
Thanks, Saku. 🙂
Nina says
my monday was hectic – what with my boss being out and calling eveyr minute AND having to show our current home all evening. 😀 its all good though!
that color is such a perfect fall color! i am liking it … 🙂
Karen says
Hi Nina,
Oh boy! So does this mean you guys found a new place?
Nina says
yep! we fell in love w/ one last month, and almost immediately put in an offer … we got approved after a week (or less) and we’re closing in a week or so!
im dreading the packing but … hopefully this will be the last in a long while.
im not a mom (other than to kids of the fur variety) but i have taken care of countless nephews and nieces and i think its instinctive: you just know what to do. i think another important thing to learn is just to roll with the punches: things will get done when they get done; or when the baby lets you do them. it might be a good exercise in controllilng OCD. 🙂
michlle harris says
I don’t comment on here much, so I am coming out of lurking :).
I am a mom of four 🙂 The best way to be be ready is to be financially secure enough to be able to stay home with the baby, imho. But emotionally, nature takes care of the other things. A whole new host of wonderful emotions begin to grow along with the baby inside of you, and that incredible love is a good guide over the years, along with slowly learning.
I’m sure you’d make a great mom!!!
Karen says
Hi Michlle,
It’s good to hear from you! I’m glad you decided to pop in. 🙂
Four kids, wow! How old are they? And did you always know you wanted to be a mom?
Kim says
That looks beautiful on you!
As far as being ready, I think everyone’s different. Some people know from when they’re kids that they want to be parents. Others, not so much. I had ZERO mommy instinct and was completely unprepared to get pregnant immediately (and with twins). So many people we knew had been trying for a year or more, that I just assumed we had lots of time. I thought I would be the worst mother on earth.. well, not really because I realize how bad some truly are. I just couldn’t imagine how I was going to love these kids like everyone said I would. I honestly didn’t like being pregnant (bed rest) and never felt ready. When I had them though, it was pretty instant. I know that’s a bit cliche, and I was still overwhelmed, but there was no longer the option of NOT being ready. For what it’s worth (and I know that I don’t know you personally), I think you’d be a great mom. This will be hard for you to believe, but you honestly will love your child more than Tabs (believe me, I didn’t think it was possible either). 🙂 PS What no one told me was that if you get pregnant as soon as you are off the pill (without having one cycle first) there’s a high probability of twins. I highly recommend that; that way if you want 2, you never have to go through the process again. 😉
Karen says
Hi Kim,
Twins — it’s like buy one, get one free! Are yours identical? 🙂
And thank you for reassuring me about the mommy instinct. I worry that I’m not nearly maternal enough, but friends have said over and over that it really does kick in. Hmm…
Kim says
It’s just like buy one, get one free! 🙂 No, they’re fraternal and very different. People always assume it’s harder, but I think it’s easier. My friends all have kids a few years apart and they had to deal with a newborn (and exhaustion) on top of a toddler who was even more demanding because now he had to share mommy. With my guys, it was no more work. We were on a schedule so we’d just feed them at the same time, bathe at the same time, etc. They were always at the same stage of development so we didn’t have 5 years of diapers either. 🙂 Now they’re in the same class (same homework) and play on the same sports teams, so we’re not running to different activities every day of the week. Try for those twins!! 🙂 PS Your friends are right – it will kick in. I didn’t believe it until it happened to me either!
Marian says
Karen, the lipstick is pretty but too pricey for my pocketbook! As for having children….there never seems to be a totally right time. You really have to jump in there and just do it. I waited too long, thinking everything over. I didn’t marry until the age of 34 and by then it was too late for me. Happily, though; my husband and I wound up adopting 2 gorgeous babies who are nearly grown now! Being a mother has been by far the greatest experience of my life!
I think you’ll make a wonderful mother!
Karen says
Hi Marian,
That’s one thing I’ve been doing for the last few years — waiting for the right time. Sigh…
I’m so glad that things for you worked out. How old are you kids now? 🙂
Amber says
I have serious packaging-lust for those lipsticks. Maybe if I ever manage to use up some of the lipsticks in my drawer!
Karen says
Hi Amber,
The packaging is way cool. The only thing is it picks up fingers prints like crazy! I also wish I could stand up the tube…
Michelle says
Gorgeous lippie — love the packaging! The price would probably keep me from buying it — but a girl can always dream!
I don’t know if anyone can ever be fully prepared for having kids — but it is the best thing I ever did (along with marrying my husband). I have 3 girls — I had one at age 26, then at 29, and then at age 32. I got prego on the first or second month of trying with 2 of them — and one of them it took me almost a year. But everything worked out! I hope it does for you, too 🙂
Karen says
Hi Michelle,
I bet it’s a lot of fun to have three girls! Are any of them makeup addicts yet?
amy says
That is a gorgeous sparkly grape but too much for my wallet at the moment. I do love the packaging though.
Karen says
Hi Amy,
The packaging is a big draw for this lipstick! You gotta be cool with lots of fingerprints, though.
NeenaJ says
Karen,
I’ve been looking at the Guerlain lippies and thinking of getting one during the Saks F&F sale (20% off with code FRIEND7). This is just gorgeous!
As for being “ready” – if you waited for that, you’d never have a kid! I got pregnant by accident last year. My hubs & I had been married for 12 years and were pretty happy with just us and our two kittehs. At 36, the last thing I thought would happen was to pop up preggers!
I spent many months very troubled, but we decided that it was meant to happen and forged on. While it wasn’t in the “plan”, both of our instincts kicked in immediately when he arrived.
I will tell you that seeing my son’s face light up with joy is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
The best advice I can give you is this:
1. take good care of yourself. eat nutritiously (but don’t give up the nutella!) and continue to exercise (except for sit ups once you are preggers) to the best of your ability.
2. if you’re even thinking about trying, start taking a prenatal vitamin that contains DHA.
3. you & the hubs take a big, fabulous trip somewhere and luxuriate in your surroundings and togetherness (trust me, I wish I had done this). because, it will be a while before you can enjoy it again without all the worries.
4. don’t – i repeat do NOT – read the “what to expect” books and other such stuff – even on the internet. unless you are having a specific problem or symptom, then look that up and speak to your doctor. these books only make you worry about things that will probably never happen. i swore them off and was immensely glad i did. i even returned one that was a gift from a friend. instead, get “happiest baby on the block”. it’s worth every penny of what it teaches you to comfort your infant.
5. if you’re thinking of breastfeeding, one of the best websites out there is kellymom.com when you’re ready, you can start reading up on the topic. i did it and am so happy i did. my son is one of the healthiest in daycare and i attribute that to the breastmilk. as a bonus, feeding and pumping helped me drop all of my pregnancy weight plus another 15 pounds.
6. always follow YOUR instincts. do what YOU think is right. you’ll be getting advice from everywhere – wanted and unwanted (case in point!). you have to be able to ignore a lot of it and possibly possibly put your foot down for what you believe in – even if it comes from those you love.
7. enjoy every moment. they are fleeting.
i wish you the best.
Karen says
Hi NeenaJ,
Thanks for the Saks Coupon Code. I might have to pick up a few things too!
But most of all thank you for this list. I found it helpful and comforting.
Can I ask you a question? This is gonna sound silly, but what kind of exercise were you allowed to do while you were pregnant? I’m asking because I have to work out mostly to regulate my moods (if I don’t get my fitness on I start feeling blue).
Shannon says
oh my good gosh, that’s gorgeous. I absolutely adore the sheer-esque quality.
Karen says
Hi Shannon,
It’s a beautiful lipstick. Don’t you love the tiny little sparkles?
Jen says
Gorgeous lipstick but sooooo spendy!
You’re never 100% ready to get pregnant, my friend, even if you think you are. It’s a HUGE change, but totally cool a d worth it. Email me if you want an ear or to ask questions. I hated pregancy (twice) but love being a mom. Plus: girls = makeup and polish fun; boys = a break from girliness (I guess… What do I know? Little Ninja and Baby Ninja are both chicas). 🙂
When you are ready enough, dive in. It’s a blast and you’ll do great.
Now, when you babyproof, feel free to send me that lipstick. I’m quite sure it’s too dangerous for a newborn.
Karen says
Thanks, Jen. I just might shoot you an e-mail. 🙂
Tabs sends big kitty hugs to you (he’s sitting on my lap right now).
stalkthepostman says
That lippie looks gorg on you! We’ve been thinking about kids a lot lately as well (i’m 31)…do you ever feel like your feelings about having kids moves in cycles? One month you’re completely freaking out that you don’t have them yet and your biological clock is in full swing, and a couple months later you’re completely satisfied with the way your life is now, and can see yourself living that way forever……what an emotional day you must have had. Grab some tea and chill out in a sunny spot 🙂
Karen says
Hi Stalkthepostman,
Yes, I do. There are phases when I’ll see commercials of babies and get all teary with longing, which then alternate between “I could be content like this.”
Those moments usually hit me when I realize I don’t feel like I’m done completely doing all the things I want to do; like, I still want to do a trip where all I do is hit up surf spot after surf spot. I suppose one could do that with a kid in tow, but really?
stalkthepostman says
I know! We’re big into backcountry stuff – backpacking, hiking, camping – with no phones or connection to the plugged-in world, and we just got back from a week-long trek through the Purcell Mountains of B.C. It rained the.whole.time. Like, we had to put on wet, cold, disgustingly-dirty socks/pants/shirts for 5 days in a row. Blech.
But when we got back, all I could think was, “That was so fun and amazing! Imagine we had a kid with us?? Wow, that would be so much harder…”
I think it’s more the loss of spontaneity and freedom along with the increased responsibility I’m fearing. We decided to go on that trip, booked the days off work, and BAM – we’re gone. It’s not like we couldn’t do it without a baby coming with us, or taking advantage of a few grandparent babysitting days, but it involves much more planning and consideration. 🙂 That, in turn, makes me feel like a piece of crap. Who doesn’t have kids because they “can’t handle” the responsibility or lack of freedom? It makes me sound awful…
You should plan your surfing trip for this winter when the weather sucks 🙂
mkdallas says
I LOVE me some Rouge Gs…my one complaint is that the tube is so pretty but gets so skanked out with fingerprints and general purse detritus. OK, on the the baby topic. I waited far too long (til I was 40), had a miscarriage first time out and then totally ignored the doctor’s advice to wait 6 months and got pregnant 11 weeks later. I had a gorgeous girl and she is just all kinds of awesome. I will say this: having a baby really made my life feel out of control, which took some getting used to. It wasn’t hard as much as it was humbling…everything for the first 3-4 months was done on the baby’s time. I showered when she napped, I napped when she napped, I made dinner when she napped and sometimes I literally couldn’t get dressed until 5 PM. But if you just submit to that fact, it all becomes much easier. She’s 12 now and I can’t even tell you how much my hubs and I love her. Bringing up a child gets easier every year they age, as they become more self-sufficient. Like others have already said, based on your blog comments/thoughts/musings, I bet you would be an amazing, nurturing mom. It’s also great that you could work at home. One other thought: going off birth control does not equal trying to get pregnant. I was off the pill for 18 months and didn’t get pregnant. Once I started using the basal thermometer method (which narrows down your window of ovulation to a very specific time), I got pregnant at age 40 twice in 3 months. Just something to think about, depending on whether you’re in a hurry or not. Best of luck in whatever you decide!
Karen says
Hi mkdallas,
You bring up a good point on the packaging, because it does pick up fingerprints easily. I don’t think I’ll mind so much when it’s in my purse, but I can see how it would get annoying.
Thanks for this window into the world of motherhood. I’m can be a control freak, so submitting to the chaos of the first few months sounds like it would be very challenging. How did you get stuff done? I bet you got really good at multi-tasking.
Becca says
Crap – wish I’d never seen this post…this lippie is stunning. Gorgeous on you and we’re similar skintones…everything’s terrible. Good luck TTC!! Babies are amazing!
Glosslizard says
Glory hallelujah! What an amazingly fabulous lipstick color! Dang, I haven’t splurged on a “G” yet, this may be my gateway!
Karen, if you decide to have kids, I believe you will utterly rock! You are an innately kind person and you would carry off being a mama with class and sass! I flatter myself that I am the/a “cool mom” (of course, it’s not hard being “the glamorous one” in Berkeley 😉 ), and I know you would be too! Love to you (and El Hub) no matter what you decide!
lexi says
Karen,
Honestly you are never ready until 4 pregnancy tests tell you otherwise. My daughter is now 2 and I can’t think about life without her. It’s awesome but everyone is different and everything happens for a reason. When that time comes you will be an awesome mother!
Love your lips BTW…
bisbee says
That lipstick is gorgeous – I have a few of the Rouge G lippies – and the le Brilliant version is the best, IMHO.
As far as motherhood…I think you’ll do just fine! I believe you are in your 30s…I did it earlier (I was finished at 26). Ready? Never 100% ready…I’m a grandmother twice over now and I’m still not 100% ready!
As far as being financially stable enough to stay home…that’s up to you, but it seems to me that you’ve got a great thing going that would enable you to work from home as much as you want. I know and have heard ALL of the arguments for not working outside of the home when you have children…but even in my generation, I know many women who didn’t work and found themselves ill-equipped to support themselves down the road when they found that they had to. You never think it will happen to you…it happened to me after 28 years of marriage, but luckily, I had a career.
Good luck – it’s a very exciting time for you and El Hub!
Tiffany says
There never is a “right” time, I think you should listen to your doc and get crackin. We have 2 boys and somedays we still feel like we’re not ready 🙂 (And we’re 32 and 47!!)
You’ll be a great mom!
Jane says
Wow that is one gorgeous lippy! You look stunning in that colour, and I adore it with the red shirt! Wow. Guerlain does luxury packaging like no one else!
Re kids- I have 2 daughters, 22 and 14. If I had planned to have kids I would never have had any- I just know it. No time seemed like the right time so thank goodness for happy accidents is all I can say. Each girl was an “oops!” and I am grateful for them every minute of every day.
My girls changed my life, saved my life….I love the person I became when I became a mom. They are my angels, my light- my life.
That said, I am only now starting my career. I chose to work part time here and there while being a full time mom. I really think life unfolds as it should….especially when we aren’t paying attention 😉
Thanks for sharing your feelings & good luck to you and your hubby xo
Ida says
I love this lipstick on you! The packaging is so glam and luxe. But what I really want to comment on is your post about being ready to be a mommy. Trust me (don’t), I’m an expert (no, not really) and I can GUARANTEE (limited guarantee) you 100% that you will never regret it (except perhaps the first time you clean up regurgitated chicken and green beans out of your carpet…why God why did you buy the plush carpet instead of the Berber?). Nah, all kidding aside, there never is a perfect time to put a piece of your heart out there and into the world where you can’t totally protect it and shield it, and that’s pretty much what being a mom is. It’s scary and it’s exhilerating and it’s terrifying and it’s pretty much the most frickin’ amazing thing evah! So if its time, it’s time. Pretty much like getting out there and living, you just gotta go do it when you’re ready to do it. And I’m sure you’ll be great at it! : )
Jaimme says
Ok the lipstick is amazing. Went through almost every comment & couldn’t find one person against u having a baby. But it doesn’t hurt to get the other side right? I don’t want to offend anyone (usually say this when u r about to offend lol) but I say no to kids. It’s money – travel instead! How about if ur child is unfortunately born sick ?? I can’t even stand the thought. && they won’t be babies forever. They will be annoying teenagers going to awful schools where kids r mean. I don’t want to put anyone through that. I have been married quite a couple years and my hub & I just can’t get past this stage. We have pets & they give us enough to do 😉
Comment back?
Katrina says
Oh goodness, that color is amazing! I could never justify that price tag though, whoa boy!
The fact that you are seriously considering if you will be a good mother tells me that you definitely will be. As many others have said, I don’t think you can ever be completely sure. My son is 19 months and still I feel like sometimes I’m not cut out for this mommy thing. But by and large I love being a mother and its one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, despite all I had to give up to do it. It definitely changes your life, and your husband’s, but change is often something entirely necessary. I look at all my childless friends and sometimes I envy them…but not really that much, heh.
Stacey says
I’ve been drooling over the Rouge G lipsticks since seeing them online. I don’t have a Guerlain counter anywhere near me so I haven’t just chanced it ordering after seeing the colors on line. Maybe someday….
As far as motherhood….I don’t know if anyone is ever REALLY ready. My ob asks me every visit if I’m going to have a 2nd child because as he put it, “you’re no spring chicken.” I’d smack him if I didn’t like him so much. One child is enough for us..
If you decide to go down that road, you’ll adapt, learn and be totally fine. Plus I bet you’d make a great mom too!
It’s totally not fair that men can father children into their 90’s and beyond, but we have schedules to keep in this respect.
Vicki M.. says
Karen, the lippie is gorgeous and so are you. You will make an awesome mom and don’t even worry about being ready. It will work out fine. If we waited until we were ready in our lives, nothing would ever happen!
erin says
I am a daily lurker and mom of 3 who had to comment. First off the lippy is lovely on you, enough so to inspire my next purchase, but I love Guerlain anyways. Second, there is no one or right path to becoming or being a mom. Its like life, there are a million different ways to reach the same end-point. There are a million different methods of being a mom. Everyone does it differently,you just have to trust your heart that you are doing it the best way you can for your child. What works for your friends or neighbors may be a disaster for your kid. Working, staying at home or a combo of the two all work. Breastfeeding, bottlefeeding– all have opinions but all still work. My kids fill my life with love and laughter on a daily basis. But they are vastly different from my friends kids, and I don’t know that I could be a mom to anyone else’s kids. When they are your own you find that you are uniquely qualified to nurture them and raise them in the best manner for their unique personalities. From what I can tell from your posts about being patient with yourself and encouraging yourself, you would make a fabulous mom. You have to be patient and let go of your preconceived notions of how things should be, you have to enjoy the chaos as it occurs (or not if that is your choice), and you have to encourage them and yourself that you can do it. I wish you the best and hope that you have kids if that is your desire or feel content without if that is your desire.
erin says
Oh and I forgot to add, I wanted and tried for all my kids. Not because I was ready but because I figured if you wait for all your ducks to be in a row, you would be dead. The first two were easy, the third took years and years to come. But my theory is it all works out for the best, and my kids make me such a better person. I am so much less self-involved and it allowed me to put my priorities in order and life the life that I want to have in order to set a good example to my kids. It brings out the best in a person (aside from the occasional crying jag where I am sure I am a failure because I yelled). But the joy and pride in my kids I feel on a daily basis I wouldn’t change for anything.
Brandy says
OMG this lippie is amazing!
I may be the only one who is going to say anything from the other side of the children issue… Remember, you don’t have to have kids. There is a ton of social pressure out there for women to procreate, but it is a choice. There is nothing wrong, or selfish, or broken about you if you decide not have a child. There’s also nothing innately better or unselfish is choosing to have children. You are not a better or worse person for the choice you make on this one.
Children can be wonderful, and if you choose to have them then that’s wonderful! But it doesn’t have to be a foregone conclusion.
All that aside, if you have already made the choice to have them and are just waiting for the “right” time, there won’t ever be one. So you may as well close your eyes and jump. 🙂
Camille says
Well put – there’s nothing innately wrong about having or not having children; it’s your (and your partner’s) choice. I have friends are happy with kids, who are contemplating kids and who are equally happy without them. I’m in my mid-20s now and don’t feel ready for kids yet (not by a long shot) but am not ruling them out in the future. As Brandy said, there’s absolutely nothing selfish about not having kids – I think it’s more selfish to have a child hoping that it will somehow fix the problems in your life or relationship.
And yes, the lipstick is absolutely beautiful!
Gina says
That is a freakin’ GORGEOUS shade of lipstick!!! But alas, $46 for a lipstick is a cheap shot to my wallet.
snoopysteph says
Hi Karen! I’ve never tried Guerlain before but this might be a good place to start! The color looks fantabuous on you.
BABIES!! My suggestion is to throw caution to the wind by chucking the birth control & letting it ride. If it’s meant to be, it will happen! You can never really be ready for a baby anyway. I got pregnant with my son shortly after my 2nd wedding anniversary and it was totally unplanned & completely unexpected. It just happened. We’ve been trying for #2 since my son was 6 months old (going on 3 years now!) and since we’re “planning” it seems like it’s never going to happen! But I know it will happen unexpectedly, just like the first time.
You would be the hippest momma on the makeup & beauty blog block! 🙂
Alexandra says
Karen you will make an amazing mom. I cant comment on the being ready aspect.
As i have my son at 19 years old. Having said that i do not regret having him for one minute.
When my son was 6 months old i left his father. I didnt want to be a single parent,but when he hit me, i wasnt sticking around. He was also an alcoholic.
Its amazing how your instincts kick in once they are born.
My son is now 16 years old,and is my whole world.
I would love more kids,but at 35,single and suffering from chronic fatigue its not going to happen. Ok thats my life story lol
Darcy says
That color lipstick looks fabulous on you. You will make a very glam mom whenever the time is right for you. Oh and by the that awesome tube got my carry on luggage searched at JFK – they couldn’t figure out what it was… I had to explain.
Diana says
Karen,
the lipstick is gorgeous! Here is my “mommy” advice for you…”You will NEVER have ‘enough’ money, ‘enough’ time, or enough ‘patience,’ to have a child. If you don’t jump in head first, you will never find that you have everything needed to provide a child with….it just WORKS! Good luck with your decision, whatever it may be!
Danielle says
Hi Karen,
You’ve got plenty of input about motherhood already, and it’s all true (I’ve found), even the contradictions. What I will say is this: the Guerlain Rouge G lipsticks are *great* for moms! I’m going to buy my first one this week on the Sephora F&F sale. I won’t have to look for a mirror to apply my lippie, and the beautiful packaging is sheer luxury. What’s not great for moms: the price – ouch! That’s a lot of baby shoes…. or diapers…
I have 2 boys, aged 4 and 2, and will be 36 this year. I am not maternal, was not ready, did not plan, and every day I doubt my ability to be a mom. But I’m the only mom they have, and they’re the only kids I have, so I just have to rise to the challenge and be the best mom/person I can be!
And it’s brought my hubby and me that much closer (although it didn’t initially — the first year of motherhood was rough!)
Exercise while preggers: pre-natal yoga, and *swimming*! The weightlessness was such a relief, especially toward the end.
Whatever you decide, is the right decision for you 🙂
Resha says
oh my lord that is so gorgeous!
Jenn says
If everyone waited until they were a hundred percent ready to have kids, we’d all be a bunch of 65-year-old parents. The thought of it will always scare you!
Jessica says
I’m a total lurker, but I had to comment on this one. First thing first: love the lipstick color! It might be just the thing to get me out of my pinky-brown gloss rut.
With regard to kids, I’m in the exact same situation (even down to the recent ob/gyn appointment). I wanted to thank you for sharing this – it made me realize i’m not the only one worrying about the big decision.
Rachel says
Girl…I am in the same place as you…how do you REALLY know when you want kids? Lately I’m starting to think it might be time but then I freak out and say “not yet!” Anywho, it’s a scary leap of faith, but I’m sure one I’ll never regret. Cray cray as you’d say….