Makeup and Beauty Blog | Makeup Reviews, Swatches and How-To Makeup

A beauty blog blooming with fresh makeup reviews, swatches and beauty tips from your friendly neighborhood beauty addict

Two Ways to Win a $50 eGift Card From Sephora!

by 466 Comments

WINNER: The giveaway is closed now, and the winner is Isana! Congratulations, Isana! If you entered but didn’t win this time around, keep trying, and click here to enter any ongoing giveaways before you jet. 🙂

A Makeup and Beauty Blog giveaway
two ways to win a $50 eCard from sephora

Why, yes! That’s me reading like a real, live grownup at my new dining room table. 🙂

And it only took three years! (But I keep reminding myself that three years is better than never.)

The table was delivered yesterday, so I’m still breaking it in…which is very important work, I’ll have you know. Lots of coffee, tea and reading to be done and consumed.

two ways to win a $50 eCard from sephora

Perfect time to catch up on my Entertainment Weekly subscription and start a new book on the Kindle (Gone Girl, by Gillian Flynn).

I’m also taking BECCA’s new Radiant Skin Satin Foundation out for another spin ($42)…

beca radiant skin satin finish foundation
The makings of a nice morning

It’s a medium-coverage liquid foundation with a mostly matte finish and the faintest whisper of shine, and it’s available in 18 shades, from a fair ivory-beige called Porcelain to a deep neutral brown called Cacao.

I’ve been wearing it in Bamboo, a tan, yellowish beige, which sits in right about the middle of the shade range, for the past few days.

“This sophisticated silicone emulsion contains sebum-absorbing properties that provide a perfectly natural look and even complexion all day. The soft, smooth texture glides on seamlessly, reducing imperfections with buildable coverage that easily blends over the skin for a radiant finish.

The formula contains Ejitsu Rose, which helps to improve elasticity and radiance while providing anti-inflammatory properties; mineral pigments that help color stay true on the skin; and vitamin E to enhance moisture retention while protecting against pollution and free-radical damage.”

— sephora.com

So far I’m into it. It’s certainly lightweight and comfortable, so I feel like my skin can still breathe, and I like how well it evens things out without looking like I’m wearing a ton of makeup.

Seems to be a good foundation for days like today when I just want to chill out, if you know what I mean. It’s available now at Sephora stores and online at sephora.com and beccacosmetics.com.

And speaking of Sephora! 🙂 Tabs would like me to remind you of two things today — 1) that Sephora is one of his favorite places in the whole wide world, and 2) that if you win this week’s $50 eGift card, he’d do a much better job of modeling your new makeup treasures than Marmalade would.

Yeah, I dunno what that business is about… I try to stay out of the cat politicking that goes on around the house.

This week’s Sephora eGift card giveaway starts in three, two, one…

What folks are saying…

“What a lovely surprise it was to see your announcement (after completing one of many exams/papers/projects I have this crazy week)! The eCard will definitely ease expenses for this broke, beauty-obsessed college student. Thank you, Karen and Tabs!!”
-Katie

“Thanks so much, Karen. Just in case you were wondering what I got with it, I decided to go with the Clarisonic Mia–I’ve been wanting it for years now, but have never purchased it because of the price. Your eCard helped me finally buy it! I look forward to using it. Thanks again!”
-Jane

“Shut the front door! OMG Karen, you have made my day. 🙂 I’m sick in bed with the flu and this has just cheered me up immensely!!!!!!!! BTW, I’m the one that sent you that pic of my pug in a wig a few weeks back LOL! Thanks again, honestly, I’m beyond giddy right now.”
-Angel

“Thank you SO much Karen! OMG! Wishes really do come true! I can’t believe I won! You have no idea how much this will help me through the holidays. I’ve been an avid fan of your blog for the past two years. Your witty and creative entries, informative makeup information, and beautiful photos have kept me hooked. I look forward to more of it. Goodness, you’ve
seriously just made my week and it’s only Tuesday night!”
-Zharlynne

“Oh my goodness! Thank you so much Karen (and Tabs, of course)! I really appreciate this! I’d been eyeing the Anastasia brow pencil in Strawburn to match my red hair!”
-Chelsea (and Jiji the kitten and Quincy the bunny)

“Hi Karen. Thank you so much, I’m so excited, I’ve never won anything before. My name is Hana … I just turned 25 (today is my birthday!) Yay! Thank you.”
-Hana

Win a $50 gift card from Sephora

  • One (1) Sephora eGift card containing $50 sent to the winner by email (international readers, you may opt to receive $50 sent by PayPal instead).

  • There are two ways to enter, and you can do both of them for two chances to win. First, you can enter by leaving a comment at the bottom of this post, a comment about anything at all, like, what’s your go-to foundation for a natural look and why do you love it? Do your pets get along with each other? What are you reading at the moment? Coffee or tea? Describe your favorite room in your home. Are you wearing sweats right now? — you get the idea.
  • Second, you can enter by following me on twitter Twitter @karenmbb and retweeting (RT) the following message:
    • Follow @karenmbb and RT to Win a $50 eGift Card from Sephora! http://bit.ly/11XdPAn

  • The deadline to enter is Sunday, December 9, 2012 at 11:59PM (PT).
  • Entrants must enter using a valid email address and/or Twitter account to win.
  • A maximum of two (2) entries per person — one within the comments at the bottom of this post, and a second entry via Twitter addressed to me @karenmbb.
  • Contest is open to individuals of any country who have reached the age of majority according to their local laws (18 in the United States with these exceptions: Alabama and Nebraska, 19; Mississippi, 21).
  • Sephora eGift Certificates can only be redeemed online and are not valid in stores or available for purchase or redemption in Canada. International winners may opt to substitute the Sephora eGift card prize for $50 sent directly to their email address by PayPal instead.
  • Tabs and I (heretofore referred to as “T-Money and K-Dawg”) will select one (1) winner at random from the entries either left in the comments at the bottom of this blog post or addressed to @karenmbb on Twitter.
  • The winner will be announced here within 48 hours of the deadline.
  • Void where prohibited by law.

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

WINNER: The giveaway is closed now, and the winner is Isana! Congratulations, Isana! If you entered but didn’t win this time around, keep trying, and click here to enter any ongoing giveaways before you jet. 🙂

Reader Interactions

Comments

  7. I’m about to go on a Sephora run right now! Maybe I should wait until later this weekend. . . :P. Also, Tabs is so cute! I can’t have a kitty because my hubs is severely allergic. 🙁

    Reply

  14. So, I just discovered Dr. Jart BB Cream and it is A.MA.ZING! I thought, “there’s no way a product that comes in one shade could ever work for someone as pale as me.” But I swear to god, when I put it on, I can SEE it whitening and it just blends in beautifully and naturally. I will need to upgrade to the full size and wear this everyday for the rest of my natural born life.

    Reply

  15. Hi T-Money and K-Dawg!! I would love to win the Sephora Gift Card. I was reading your post about the Zella sweatshirt last night, Im itching to go to Nordie’s to pick one up for myself. Thanks Karen! You have the best beauty blog out there I read it everyday.

    Reply

  16. I love your new table!

    Tea or coffee? I think you know the answer…

    As far as foundation I really really like YSL new foundation, it’s not full coverage foundation but it makes your skin look flawless. Have you tired it yet?

    Reply

  17. Your website is frickon awesome! The make up reviews are invaluable and I have purchased many an item based on your say so. Make up is my guilty pleasure, well one of them (closely followed by cheese and chocolate) not together but practically simultaneously when the need arises. Your ‘wingmog’ Tabs makes me smile and it is so fab that he is involved. I have a border terrier (terrorist) canine companion that insists on involvement. This evening I was wrapping some Xmas gifts (to post abroad) not because I am super efficient, don’t want you to get the wrong idea! In fact I have missed the deadline for international postage, which I do year in, year out ….but hey, that’s how I roll 🙂 anyway I digress, wrapping paper to him is simply irresistible and frankly at various points it was sheer luck that he didn’t end up bubble wrapped himself. Anyway keep up the good work Karen, you and The Tabster rock! Thanks.

    Reply

  23. I went to sephora today and picked up the bare escentuals fired up kit and new ready foundation. Can’t wait to play with it. I love reading your blog. Keep up the good work.

    Reply

  28. My two cats get along, but I don’t think they want me to know that! If I catch them cuddling, they always get up and run away!

    Reply

  36. My go to foundation is NARS sheer glow in Stromboli! It’s the only foundation I’ve found that is a perfect olive match for my skin! I would love to win a sephora gift card to pick up the matching Stromboli powder!

    Reply

  38. Coffee AND tea ( but not at the same time!)….depending on my mood. Oolong is my fave tea and I like strong, black coffee with no additives for the most part. Keeps things pretty simple! Love your new table too!

    Reply

  39. I am not much of a foundation person but i am loving The Face Shop Aqua bb cream. When I am in the mood for foundation I use MAC face and body. And definitely tea, well, tea lattes from Coffee Bean 🙂

    Reply

  40. A Neiman Marcus SA matched me to the wrong shade of Armani Maestro foundation because middle shades = medium skin tone. Totally not true. So I walked around Las Vegas all day looking sick and weird with the pink toned 5.5. Then I went to the Sephora in the Forum Shops where they have Armani Maestro and the SA not only matched me to the correct shade (4), but gave me a sample as well.

    Reply

  41. Ok so #1 Gone Girl is crazzzzyyyyyyy good. You’ll love it. #2 my go to natural foundation is still mac face and body – love it! For daytime errand running its Boscia BB cream or LM tinted moisturizer.

    Reply

  42. I hate both coffee and tea. I like hot chocolate, but I can only have it occasionally because milk makes me sick. I just drink Sprite and other clear pops instead.

    Reply

  46. I am studying for my final that I have to take tomorrow. It is a bit gruesome, but after tomorrow I’m done until January!

    Reply

  50. I’m allergic to most foundations except for the mineral ones.. I love the Meow Cosmetics line because it’s skin friendly and has the perfect blend of yellow and beige. Usually the colors I come across in the popular brands are too olive or too orange =\

    Reply

  58. Coffee! Morning & at the 4pm slump time. I recently started drinking it with unsweetened Almond milk instead of regular milk- & it’s great!

    Reply

  63. Thanks Karen for the opportunity again. I’m still lounging around in my pajamas and my hair is a mess but my makeup is beautifully done. Beauty addict problems lol.

    Reply

  66. I’m still on the hunt for the perfect foundation. I feel like I’ve tried everything under the sun. I’m sure I’ll find one that works for me at some point >_<

    Reply

  67. I think you look wonderful with less makeup! Love of the moment: Loving Maybelline Colossal Cat Eyes Mascara! Real bristles (not plastic) and grabs every lash. Give great length!

    Reply

  68. I can’t seem to find a foundation that matches my skin color.. it’s either to beige/tan, comes of orangy, or to light/pale.
    I tried going to sephora when they had an event for the Skin Id thing but it was all booked up.

    and yes i’m wearing sweats… i don’t like the traditional Pjs and I hate wearing jeans at home

    Reply

  70. My Two Small dogs DO NOT get along, I have a Yorkie (F) and a Papillon (M) the Younger dog which is the Male is VERY Friendly towards everyone including her, but she just can’t stand him especially if someone gives him more attention than her.

    Reply

  72. My favorite foundation is Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer. I try other things sometimes, but my skin is so dry and flaky that TM is the only thing that works. I guess that’s ok–dry skin doesn’t come with breakouts of any kind, so I don’t need much coverage. Beautiful table, BTW! So classy and minimalist. Love!

    Reply

  75. I think I have always been more of a Coffee person, but I know it can truly damage your teeth and make them yellow, so now I’m not drinking coffee so If I ever crave it I might drink some hot cocoa now that it’s getting cold anyway. I sometimes drink Chamomile tea, but only if I can’t sleep or if I want to relax before I head to bed.

    Reply

  79. Hey Karen, i’m currently craving the Urban Decay Vice palette. Do you have it, do you think that it’s worth the $59 price tag? I’m trying to decide whether or not i should get it.

    Reply

  80. I love metallic lip gloss – regular lip gloss is just too quiet. With the sparkle of metallic shine, the lip catches the color and then catches the eye of others!!!

    Reply

  81. I am giving Mac face and body a try today…. Normally I wear a powder foundation, but was itching to try something new. It’s good to get out of a rut- whethers it’s foundation or dining room tables!

    Reply

  84. Currently unemployed so a Sephora GC would be awesome! Also, you’ve inspired me to go to Trader Joe’s! Love your reviews and blog. Not usually a cat person, but Tabs is da’ bomb.

    Reply

  86. I have six dogs and two cats. My newest dog (Keira, whom I’ve had for over a year) absolutely hates my cats. We think she may have had a bad experience with cats in the past (we got her from the animal shelter which she had been at for seven months).

    Reply

  89. I am currently reading ‘team of rivals’ because I loved the Lincoln movie soo much!
    Congrats on your beautiful new table and chairs:)

    Reply

  90. I’ve just started winter break (ugh, grad school), so have a little time for pleasure reading again! I’ve decided to re-read Piers Anthony’s Incarnations of Immortality.

    Reply

  91. I’m a bit of a foundation addict but my favorite is MUFE face and body i always get people complementing me on my skin and asking about my skin products.

    Reply

  93. I just finished reading The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce. It was really good. I loved Gone Girl, except for the end. I can’t wait to hear what you think of it. Thanks for a chance at a giveaway. Have a good weekend.

    Reply

  97. I think that your highlights are so gorgeous on you and they complement your skin tone! I also want to get those BCBG black pants you posted about a while back but my budget doesn’t have room for that 🙁

    Reply

  106. Tabster is really enjoying the book, looks like :). And lady K, i can totally relate to you re: the joys of a new dining table ;).

    Reply

  111. Only 1 more week and off for the rest of the year – Enjoy some great meals on that table – I think Tabs loves it!
    We tweet – or try to – so old for all this techy stuff – LOL

    Reply

  117. I’m reading Twilight in Italian haha… I don’t understand a lot of it, but I think it’s good practice until I take my next Italian course.

    Reply

  119. Just came home with the Christmas tree and two weaths. I put one on the front of our house and the other on the side. I make my own bows and decorate the wreaths myself.

    Reply

  123. Hi Karen, my favorite foundation is the Loreal Paris True Match Super Blendable Makeup in Honey Beige. I can’t afford to buy make up that cost more than $10 so in order to save and make the most out of this foundation, I mix together about a quarter-size of the foundation with a small tub of moisturizer and a drop of Vitamin E Beauty Oil. This concoction gives a light and very natural coverage and is buildable without making me look like I’m trying too hard. Plus, im proud to say that my dad helped me to find the right shade because I find it extremely difficult to distinguish the shade that match my skin. I never once won any raffles or giveaways and this opportunity will give me a chance to try a high end make-up from Sephora. btw I’m wearing lavender pjs with snow flake print, it’s cute and very comfortable. Thank you for reading and God Bless.

    Reply

  124. I usually wear MAC Studio Fix+ Powder Foundation when I’m trying to look natural. It just evens my skin out without totally covering up all the imperfections. A tiny bit of blush and mascara and I’m out the door, looking better than sans-makeup, but not looking like I’m wearing it either! 🙂

    Reply

  128. your table is gorgeous!!! your style proves impeccable once again 😉 congrats on checking that one off the to do list 🙂

    Reply

  129. My go to natural look will be concealer, medium matte brown eyeshadow all over lid, a darker brown/black shadow outer corner, eyeliner (maybe mascara), pink blush and medium pink lipstick

    Reply

  131. Reading the Bolyen Inheritance (sorry about spelling), coffee in the morning and tea in afternoon and evening. Enjoy your new table!

    Reply

  133. I recently bought the YSL Touché Éclat foundation and I love it! It’s the first one in ages that hasn’t made my dry skin erupt in flakes.

    Reply

  135. what’s your go-to foundation for a natural look and why do you love it? Do your pets get along with each other? What are you reading at the moment? Coffee or tea? Describe your favorite room in your home. Are you wearing sweats right now?

    I love Laura Mercier’s Mineral Foundation. I’d rather drink tea and I’m wearing jeans right now 🙂

    Reply

  138. Happy Saturday!

    I gave up on foundation. I really like Maybeline’s BB cream in light! Very natural and smooth.

    Both tea and coffee for me. I love coffe maybe just a litte more, especially Starbucks holiday drinks. 😉

    Reply

  142. My go-to foundation is not really a foundation, but a BB cream. Its texture is sort of a thin cream foundation though, not at all thick like some bb creams. It just gives the most natural glow, plus has hyaluronic acid so it moisturizes my skin perfectly! Plus I love the squeeze tube, I can just toss it in my bag and go!

    Reply

  143. Love the table! How cool to have a bench on one side. I just finished the Amy Winehouse biography written by her father. I found it really moving.

    Reply

  147. I’m loving the deluxe reissue of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness by The Smashing Pumpkins. It’s a must have for any 90’s Altenative fan. Top notch!

    CorvsQueen on Twitter

    Reply

  148. I’ve tried to like liquid foundation but I always fall back on my powder foundation (MAC or Estee Lauder) Love my MAC MSF in natural.

    Reply

  151. I have to say that is a mighty fine looking table set you have there! As for me it is my last weekend to cram and study for my finals! I’m super excited for a month off, my mental health has been slowly degrading over the past couple weeks lol.

    Reply

  159. Hi Karen,

    I just got into foundation and I’m still looking for a holy grail product but I have found an amazingly-priced foundation brush…Real Techniques Expert Face Brush…it’s only about $9 but it is absolutely amazing for buffing on cream/liquid foundation!

    Reply

  160. I just watched a tutorial on HACing (Highlighting & Contouring) and I think I have discovered why it never works for me. I have extremely high cheekbones almost to the point where I have eye-sockets and some skin that connects them to my chin. I’m left with nothing to shadow… what’s a girl to do?

    – Ms. Flat-Cheeks

    Reply

  164. My go to foundation is Dior Forever in 010! I’ve been wearing it non-stop for over a year. It matches me year round (add a little bronzer during summer) and it stays on ALL DAY. Wonderful stuff!

    Reply

  167. Hi Karen! I was so excited to open this email and see you sitting at this table!!!! WAHOOOO!!!! Congrats, it’s very cool. It took me 5 years to finally get my dining room set, so don’t feel bad. Now I hate it as my taste has changed and I’m on the look out for new chairs.

    Reply

  170. Currently procrastinating. Found your blog on Pinterest when instead I should be preparing for finals and packing to head back to the USA after 4 months of studying in Italy. But makeup and hair tutorials are ALWAYS a good idea. Will be coming back for more!

    Reply

  172. Look at you two, all grown-up (fuzzy-boots-wearin’, and all, teehee)! Nice table. Very nice.
    Also, hope you enjoy Gone Girl; I read (and reviewed) it months ago, and thought it was a pretty awesome, wild ride! (Boomer agreed, and says he loves to pour through my boxes and bags from Sephora… just so you know.)

    Reply

  183. I wish my 3 cats got along…. They tolerate each other, as in no one is dead. I have never had snuggly with each other cats as long as I have owned animals…. I think everyone lies LOL I am reading Between Two Fires by Christopher Buehlman and it is weirddddd.

    Reply

  184. I wish my 3 cats got along…. They tolerate each other, as in no one is dead. I have never had snuggly with each other cats as long as I have owned animals…. I think everyone lies LOL I am reading Between Two Fires by Christopher Buehlman.

    Reply

  186. I wish my 3 cats got along…. They tolerate each other, as in no one is dead. I have never had snuggly with each other cats as long as I have owned animals…. I think everyone lies LOL!!

    Reply

  187. I wish my 3 cats got along…. They tolerate each other, as in no one is dead. I have never had snuggly with each other cats as long as I have owned animals….

    Reply

  193. Mostly a tea person although sometimes i will get some coffee as long as it’s sweet and yummy. Have a wonderful weekend!

    Reply

  200. I talked my mom into making a tiramisu with me and I just finished the last piece tonight. It was a sad moment. I had to restrain myself from licking the pan!

    Reply

  210. Love the table, just got home from work and watching my puppy play with the cats. They tolerate him so well…even when he tries to bit their tails 🙂

    Reply

  211. So I’ve actually never been to Sephora, but I am DYING to check it out. They seem to have the coolest beauty products. My friends swear by Sephora.

    And your cat is cute. I have two pups, and they are like my children. lol

    Reply

  212. My go to foundation is bareEscentuals matte loose. I’ve been brand loyal for 15years. This prsduct really helped my skin years ago…do why change.

    Love your table. Thanks for the chance here.

    Reply

  214. Yay- what a lovely giveaway, thanks! I could def. use this towards Christmas gifts or a lil’ something for my birthday coming up on Dec. 22nd! 😀 I’m enjoying reading your blog while nestled up close to my two fur-babies (both basset hound girls- who also love your blog! 😛 ) and enjoying the lovely glow from the Christmas tree. Happy Holidays, everyone!

    Reply

  216. Looks like you and Tabs are enjoying the new table. . . Now, I’m of to check out the Kindle version of “Gone Girl” on Amazon. .. hope I win.

    Reply

  218. My cat does the same thing when I’m trying to read or work – she just stands in my lap and gives me that look like ‘I’m so more important than that.’

    Reply

  219. My favorite foundation is Hourglass Immaculate Liquid Powder foundation because it works great on my oily skin. Btw, I’m wearing sweats 🙂

    Reply

  225. Right now I am reading Ultimate Spider-Man comics (they’re for my dissertation!); I also just finished reading Junot Diaz’s This is How You Lose Her for a book club. It was really good, but I think The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao was still a little better.

    I’m not wearing sweats right now, but I am wearing pajamas! 🙂

    Reply

  228. I do feel so grown up sitting at our dining room table. Unfortunately, it has become my desk as well. So, there is alot less eating and plenty of typing happening.

    Reply

  231. What a coincidence, I just found out my Sephora started carrying Becca and super excited about this foundation… especially since this is the first I actually feel comfortable with the color and texture.

    Reply

  233. At the moment, I’m reading exam notes, drinking coffee, and wishing I was shopping at Sephora! Haha.

    Thanks for this chance!

    Reply

  234. My favorite foundation is Armani Lasting Silk, always looks polished but never over done. I’d really love to win this gift card, I have a few things on my “to-buy” list.

    Reply

  237. I’m going to run out of my current foundation soon (Benefit’s Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow… gosh, that’s a mouthful) and so now totally obsessing about whether I should go with something new. So tempted to try MUFE’s HD since I hear so much about it, or the Mat Velvet… 😉

    Reply

  246. I can’t wear natural-look foundation, because I need a lot of coverage for redness and acne scars. My favorite foundation right now is Dior Forever, because it’s good coverage that lasts all day and is matte but not chalky or mask-like. I’m almost out, so I need that Sephora gift card so I can buy some more!
    Love your table – I know how you feel. I was married 6 years before we got a dining-room table. Once we had a “real” dining room and used it for Thanksgiving dinner, I felt like a real grown-up!

    Reply

  249. I have 3 cats, 2 dogs, and a fish named Peggy. One of my cats loves the fish, the other don’t pay any attention to her. Two of the cats are in love (both boys), and the 3rd cat is old and just wants to hang out with me and none of the other animals. Our dogs get along, and our sheltie loves everyone but gets nervous about the cats not liking them. The little dog doesn’t like the cats because she is a brat.

    Reply

  251. I am in search of a good BB cream in my now obsessive efforts to avoid foundation. I’m rather fixated. But I still can’t decide between Stila and Dr Jart. In the meantime, oh man. It’s winter and my skin actually looks and feels great.

    Reply

  253. I have several dogs and I’ve observed interestingly that although they belong to one pack, they have special buddies as well as frenemies :p

    Reply

  254. My dogs have a Christmas stuffed toy that gets packed away with the tree decorations. Right now, our house is filled with “Deck the Halls” sung entirely with sarcastic-sounding Moo’s. This year, the cow got his eyes and carol book chewed off.

    Reply

  260. Thank you so much! I’ve been meaning to make my big Christmas Sephora purchase =p hoping to try to new YSL touche eclat foundation!

    Reply

  266. I’m currently reading The Casual Vacancy. I’m about a third of the way in, and while I do like the character development I’m looking for some action. Hoping for the best.

    Reply

  271. My favorite room in my house is our bathroom (oddly). The house had black & white tiles originally. I’ve added some grey and yellow touches, a bright purple orchid (which I haven’t killed yet) and I just love the color combinations. Now I just have to get the rest of the house up to snuff! Thanks for hosting this giveaway and for the great blogging you do!

    Reply

  272. love Chanel’s PERFECTION LUMIÈRE .. i work 12 hour shifts, and for me, this foundation is incredible. Thank you for the giveaway!!

    Reply

  276. I’m not wearing sweats right now, but I totally bought a new hoodie and pair of uber comfy lounge-y pants at a friends and family sale today!

    Reply

  288. Love your table, especially the bench. It’s so cute! And your ‘shoes’ are adorable.
    PJ (our cat) is chill in’ in front of the fireplace. Love the cosy warmth (from love and wood) that comes with this time of year.
    Enjoy your weekend!

    Reply

  289. I like coffee better, but I love tea! Currently studying abroad in Italy (for the next 8 days…), and I miss Starbucks! The coffee here is fantastic but SO different!

    Reply

  292. my go-to foundation is always MAC Studio Fix powder..it’s a classic and I can wear it quick and get out the door in a flash!

    Reply

  293. Whee giveaway!

    Go-to natural look foundation – either Guerlain Lingerie de Peau or Chanel Vitalumiere aqua, both lightweight and look like skin; I think I love LdP more.

    My husband and I adopted our two cats when they were 12 or so weeks old, and they love each other. They spend much of the day chasing each other around, wrestling, and also ignoring each other, but I’ve stumbled across cuddling sessions in the middle of the night (and have pictures to prove it!)

    Reading Steve Jobs’s biography – fascinating stuff!

    Reply

  294. I AM wearing sweats right now! Pretty much the standard uniform if I’m at the crib. As for coffee or tea – I do both (though not at the same time). I make a good tea – it is a dupe for the Aveda Calming Tea:

    1-1/4 C Licorice Root
    1 C Peppermint Leaves
    1/8 C Fennel
    1/8 C Basil Leaves

    Reply

  296. I don’t think I can pick between coffee or tea. For me they both have their purposes. If I have a headache or it is the end of a long day, I would much prefer tea. In the morning, when I am not fully awake, coffee is my go to!

    I also prefer both to be flavored or have a flavoring. I like them sweet and bold!

    Reply

  298. I love coffee in the morning times. Also love to win a gift card for my birthday. Coming up. I love to shopping at sephora. Plus, I will love to try the new nake palette.

    Reply

  301. that’s a really nice dining table!
    do you mind my asking where you got it, or if it’s a particular make?

    ps coffee and tea, can’t decide – but love them both for different contexts….

    Reply

  303. Where’s the table from? Lovely style!

    I’m using Urban Decay Surreal Skin cream-to-powder foundation and while I like it, I wish there were more natural options similar to it. I just like options!

    Reply

  305. My kitties Luke and Amelia just got fixed Wednesday and things were a little hairy for a couple of days. Amelia was not a happy camper! But things are back to normal now. It’s rainy in Indianapolis today and I’m looking forward to relaxing with coffee and studying at my cozy desk. Would love a giftcard! Sephora is one of my favorite places too! I just picked up Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer and it has been doing a great job of keeping my oily skin at bay. 🙂

    Reply

  306. Love the table, Karen–it’s gorgeous! As a fan of richer woodgrain tables like that, I am jealous. We have an oval table with an almost identical grain on a heavy base. Have always wanted a bench with it. 🙂

    Definitely more of a tea drinker these days, and am currently reading “Carrion Comfort” by Dan Simmons.

    Thank you for another great giveaway opportunity! 🙂

    Reply

  310. Oooooh yeah I could use a foundation like that. I usually don’t wear any as I haven’t found a texture I’m comfortable in that also has some decent coverage while within an affordable price range.

    Reply

  312. Love the pic of you reading at your new table. Looks like the perfect “me time” at morning coffee/tea before the mad rush of the day begins. For me too, the morning coffee is my ten minutes of “calm before the storm”.

    Pls tell Tabs that I LOVE Sephora too, though unfortunately there isn’t one where I live (hopefully soon coz it’s already arrived in India). When I entered Sephora on Champs Elysees on my trip to Paris, I felt I was in heaven!!! Felt the same way at Sephora Singapore too so if I were to win the giveaway, it would feel like I’ve won a small piece of heaven 🙂

    Reply

  314. I’m in my cozy loft bed (my favorite spot in the house), wearing sweat pants and a tank top, reading The Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder, with a cup of tea (sometimes I switch-up with cocoa), snuggled with my husband and dog, who get along just fine.

    Reply

  315. My go-to foundation for a natural look is MAC pro foundation its full coverage yet not too heavy and makes skin look flawless !

    Reply

  316. Lately I’ve been wearing mac face and body as my skin is so dry! But I would love to explore other non-drying foundations 🙂

    Reply

  317. Love the pic of you reading at your new table. Looks like the perfect “me time” before the mad rush of the day begins. For me too, the morning coffee is my ten minutes of “calm before the storm”.

    Please tell Tabs that I LOVE Sephora too, though unfortunately, there isn’t one in my city yet (hopefully soon since it has already arrived on Indian shores.) . When I first entered Sephora on Champs Élysées during my trip to Paris, I feli like I was in heaven! Felt the same way at Sephora In Singapore too. If I were lucky enough to win this giveaway, it would feel like I’ve won a piece of heaven 🙂

    Reply

  319. Hey, Tabs and Karen! I love nars tm in syracuse for everyday but my dress-up foundation (lancome teint idole ultra 24) is pretty natural looking too! Love the dining table with bench 🙂

    Reply

  321. Today my boyfriend and I celebrate our 11th anniversary. I made us French today this morning. For now we are just chilling at home together. We are going out for a nice dinner tonight. I’m so happy to have someone that gets me so well.

    Reply

  329. I don’t usually wear foundation, but I do wear tinted moisturizer. My favorite is the one my Femme Couture, because it’s light in colour and is SPF 15.
    My pets don’t get along. I keep my dogs segregated, and the cats like smacking the dogs in the face.
    I like tea.

    Reply

  330. I just started wearing the Laura Mercier mineral foundation. I really like it, I can’t believe the coverage I am able to get without it looking cakey or powdery. I have mostly been using the Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer and the Covergirl naturelux foundation recently.

    Reply

  331. I am in love with coffee. As a college student it has gotten me through many tough nights! My roommate recently received a Keurig coffee maker and I am a happy camper, my whole budget isn’t spent at Starbucks now!

    Reply

  332. I’m still looking for my perfect foundation. I thought I found it with Lancome Teinte Idole, and then they went and changed the formula. So I’m on the hunt for perfection once again.

    Reply

  342. That’s one of my favorite books I’ve read this year!!!! Kinda disturbing – but great!!
    I also ordered that hoodie from Nordstrom – cant wait to get it!!! 🙂

    Reply

  354. Well so my dog Apollo was the first addition to our family almost 4 years ago now, he’s sleeping on the couch next to my husband and Quinn my 8 month old! Then we added Minerva the tabby cat, which was a bit of a terrorized chase for a good year. But now the four legged children get along fairly well unless Apollo is in a really high anxiety mood which happens now and again.

    On another note, I moved to a new place a couple months ago and now have only sephora inside jcp which I decided last week isn’t that bad as thy get stuff regular sephoras don’t!! Total plus!

    Reply

  355. I love reading Entertainment Weekly on my Kindle Fire. First, I actually read the paper copy and then I check out the tablet only content on the Kindle. 🙂

    Reply

  356. I’m loving the Naked foundation by Urban Decay in 1.0, I have fair, acne-prone and redness in certain areas, and the foundation lives up to expectations. It feels light on my skin for a medium coverage foundation and doesn’t look cake-y, but still covers all the problem areas and can be built up if needed.

    Reply

  363. I love mint tea, especially Tazo Relax, it’s so refreshing. I just got a Nook, and I’ve decided to re-read some of my childhood favorites. First up is A Wrinkle in Time, followed by When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit and The Phantom Tollbooth.

    Reply

  364. I finally sprang for mufe HD foundation today. I am a little worried about the coverage, so I’m gonna need a serious concealer. Any suggestions?

    Reply

  371. I am currently a one kitty household. I have been considering getting another one but I am not sure I am ready. I had a cat that I loved like you love Tabs and I never got over his passing. 🙁

    Reply

  372. Hi Karen Just starting using Burt’s Bees Citrus facial scrub. It leaves my skin feeling really clean and fresh. It’s gentle enough to use daily!!

    Reply

  373. I am reading my textbook right now…doing my last min studying for my final tomorrow…hopefully I will do well
    Thanks for the giveaway 🙂

    Reply

  375. I put the Christmas tree up, and my kitty is soooo happy because he thinks it is his new toy! haha Thanks for the giveaway!!

    Reply

  376. I love chai tea lattes… got hooked on them from Panera Bread but Starbucks is almost just as good. Love sipping on it early morning while reading your blog 🙂

    Reply

  378. I have two favorite foundations. I like Missha M Perfect Cover bb cream in the winter, and Lancome Fresh Wear in the summer.

    Reply

  381. My cat’s a one kitty kinda guy ;^)

    I mainly read paranormal romance, right now I’m reading Shadow’s Claim by Kresley Cole

    Coffee or tea – Most definitely Tea!

    My favorite room is my bedroom and I’m wearing a t-shirt & leggings

    Reply

  385. We just realized that we have to board our little tabby instead of bringing him home with us for Christmas so we are very sad! Ten hours of travelling to the east coast would probably be too much for my baby brown tabby! My boyfriend and I think we’ve found a good place with a nice CCL to board him though. Savoring my next two weeks with my little prince!

    Reply

  386. Just finished Gone Girl – what a great, compelling read! Love the new dining room table, searching for a new one myself.

    Reply

  387. I’m frantically studying for college finals, but I’m starting early so that I won’t be too frazzled – someone please give me strength to write this term paper!

    Reply

  397. I’ve been trying to reduce my coffee intake so I’ve been drinking tea lattes instead. Thanks for holding another giveaway!

    Reply

  398. While drinking tea and playing with my pup, Hercules, I realized, as I flipped through a magazine, that so many pale, red headed models can pull off red lipstick. I’ve always been terriefied, but I think I’m finally giving it a shot! Here is to not looking like a clown!

    Reply

  399. Funny thing is, I don’t wear foundation!
    Don’t hate me, I don’t have perfect skin, it’s just that I hate the feel of anything except sunscreen or moisturizer on my face. Urg!

    Reply

  400. My two cats do not get along at all. I wish they would! They fight and yell at each other all time. I think it’s because one is a clueless orange cat and the other is a diva calico.

    Reply

  404. I’m on my lunch break drinking my berry smoothie out of a styrofoam cup and reading about my favorite topic ever: BEAUTY PRODUCTS! Best 60 minutes spent !

    Reply

  408. I’m in Hawaii on vacation and I visited Sephora and it was wonderful. The valu sets they have displayed from Los to eyes. I think I will buy some primer and the new color wand for lips.
    -Michele

    Reply

  410. I’ve always been a tea drinker but slowly once in a while I will drink coffee! I’ve been eying Becca’s new foundation, but I can’t seem to get to try it because I’m a tinted moisturizer and bb cream girl.

    Reply

  413. I haven’t found a good natural foundation. I use to love sonia kashuk tinted moisturizer when I first started wearing makeup but they changed the formula and added gold shimmer, which I hated. The only other foundation I have repurchased is Mac SFF. I like Coffee in the morning and tea in the afternoon. I’m rocking yoga pamts and my kitty is curled up next to me!

    Reply

  416. Nice table! Hope you enjoy many happy meals and memories at it! Thanks for the giveaway-would love to buy my mom a Christmas gift with the card.

    Reply

  418. Karen, how do you make reading on an iPad look so good? 🙂

    I love water-based foundations like MAC F&B but it is no longer in my colour, so I’ve been using MUFE. I’m dying to try BECCA though, now that Sephora carries it!

    Reply

  419. My absolute FAVORITE foundation at the moment is By Terry’s Sheer Expert. Right amount of coverage, perfect match for my skin (I wear number 2, and I’m around a NC18), and completely blends and gives an absolutely natural, seamless glowy look. Love love love!

    Thank you for the giveaway! xo

    Reply

  421. Hey Karen! Hope you enjoyed your Sunday 🙂 I am a new cat mommy to a four month old kitten who says hi to Tabs, lol. Just thought I’d share 🙂

    Reply

  423. My go to foundation is definitely my Estee Lauder BB Cream… so technically not a foundation, but it’s the product that makes me feel the most “me”. 🙂

    Reply

  424. Hi Karen! I’m actually STILL loving Revlon’s Colorstay, although it can definitely look a bit cool-toned on my warm-toned skin. I start by mixing my Missha Perfect BB Cream in Honey Beige with my Philosophy’s Take a Deep Breath (a light gel moisturizer) and I use that as my base. I wait for it to dry, then put a dime-sized amount of Colorstay on my hand, use my fingers to tap onto my skin, then take my Beauty Blender to dot all around my face. I feel RIDICULOUS spending so much on a SPONGE, but the Beauty Blender is a GODSEND. And yes, I sure am wearing sweats while writing this! Why do I feel like we would be BFFs if we ever met in real life??? Have a great week!

    Mei

    Reply

  425. We just got a new kitten who is making our 2 year old cat a little crazy. He’s like a remora constantly attached to her back. When she’s tired of his kitten antics she sits on the fridge and looks down at him with great disdain.

    Reply

  426. I am currently reading my Anthro book for a final tomorrow..hahah. I’ll need a lot of coffee tonight to stay focused and awake! Lovely cat, by the way <3

    Reply

  429. I got a new cat this year, and at first he and my older cat couldn’t stand each other. Slowly but surely, however, they’ve turned into besties! It’s the perfect Christmas gift for me!

    Reply

  432. So excited to be done with finals and get a little break from nursing school so I can finally do my nails! Been eyeing some nail polish from sephora for a while 😉

    Reply

  434. Love the new table! It looks great!

    Right now I’m using Tru Match Lumi as my foundation but I want to try the NARS sheer glow foundation which I hear is amazing.

    Reply

  436. thanks for another chance for a sephora eCard! 🙂 i have been meaning to use the $15 credit that sephora sent out to me, as a beauty member. just didn’t know what to buy! i will have to try the becca foundation! thanks for the suggestion!

    Reply

  443. Congratulations on your table Karen! I’m sitting here reeling over the death of Jenni Rivera. I was a super fan. So so sad. I’m praying for her family and their strength.

    Reply

  444. Hi Karen!
    It’s been rainy in Seattle (yeah big surprise there) so I bought a raincoat for my dog. So cute with the little umbrella print on it. Hope it’s warm where you are!

    Reply

  446. It’s been rainy and cold in NYC for the past couple of days, and it sucks. Snow would be better than this. At least it’d be seasonally appropriate.

    Reply

  447. I’m reading The Scarlet Letter right now… I never read it in school, even though I was supposed to. lol

    And now I’m going to try to read it!. I’m trying to get to my goal of 50 books this year on Goodreads, but I’m like 15 away… haha

    Reply

  448. Coffee, while trying to break the 10th cat fight of the day – our spoiled princess (former stray) is not willing to share her catdom with the new (also former stray) member of the family! 🙂

    Reply

  450. I’ve been wanting to get myself something from Sephora to reward myself for finishing my exams and for getting a job offer for after graduation — this would make it even better!

    Also, as always, thanks for brightening my day with your posts.

    Reply

  451. Hi Karen,
    Thanks for showing Deborah Lippmann’s Sugar Plum Fantasy. I had just about talked myself out of them, then I saw them on you. Now I’m back on the fence. I think you should wear Sugar Shack. It is my favorite of the three.
    Glitter polish removal is more fun than choosing a foundation. I can’t wait for the tube I’m using now to be gone. I’m still searching for the matching color. Too many freckles! 🙂

    Reply

  454. My cat Typhoid, a black, long-haired ball of cat-nipped fury, has taken to running her paws over Tabs’ image on my screen. I think she’s jealous of his modeling prowess.

    Reply

  457. I’m reading… Introduction To Polymers. D: this time of the year is finals week for a college student like me. A sephora gift card would totally make my day! 🙂

    Reply

  461. My fave foundation is guerlain lingerie de peau mixed with Dr Jart premium BB cream. Lasts all day, great coverage & good for my skin. It’s a win-win combo!

    Reply

  462. I love using Revlon Photoready! It gives me nice glow, not too matte and not too dewy. just right for my combi/oily skin ♥

    Reply

  463. Congrats on your new table! Yay! I’m so excited for you!

    I’m looking forward to your Gone Girl review. I’ve heard good things about it but haven’t read it myself. I did read Divergent yesterday and thought it was pretty good YA fare. I can’t remember if you’ve already read it.

    Reply

  466. Hey Karen. Thanks for reviewing Becca products. I don’t see many reviews for this line of cosmetics and I love Becca. I live in the middle of po dunk no where,…Yountville California and would have to drive quite a ways to get my hands on Becca products. By the way I’m missing your fashion reviews and tips. This time last year you reviewed a pair of kickin super cool Fergie boots which I had to hunt down like a zombie from the Walking Dead. Which I am proud to say I found and love. Please more fashion tips and reviews of what you are loving this season. Thanks!

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CommentLuv badge

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Copyright © 2020 Makeup and Beauty Blog. Get in touch.