beachbabe
Member Since: March 16, 2011Reviews
L'Oreal Paris Extra Volume Collagen Mascara
Trying this mascara was quite a big step for me since normally I don't use any mascara other than CoverGirl, and especially LashBlast. But I kind of wanted to try something new and I've always heard good things about L'Oreal. I totally... +
Trying this mascara was quite a big step for me since normally I don't use any mascara other than CoverGirl, and especially LashBlast. But I kind of wanted to try something new and I've always heard good things about L'Oreal. I totally love this one! I have such thin, sparse lashes. When I was buying, the lady at Shoppers Drug Mart told me this is her fave since she has no lashes as well. I loved that it built up volume for me and some length - but nothing crazy. Without eyeliner, I think this is completely suitable for day wear. It gives like a "dramatic day" look if that makes sense! I've worn it to school during the day then added a smidge of eyeliner on my top lid for going out that night - totally works! I don't think it quite replaces LashBlast for me but it is a close second! -
Maybelline New York Baby Lips Lip Balm
I tried this in a few colours because I found them on sale - Cherry, Peach Kiss, and Fruit Punch. The Cherry was actually probably my favourite. It turned out to be lovely berry colour. Fruit Punch was ok but I found it to be a little too fushcia... +
I tried this in a few colours because I found them on sale - Cherry, Peach Kiss, and Fruit Punch. The Cherry was actually probably my favourite. It turned out to be lovely berry colour. Fruit Punch was ok but I found it to be a little too fushcia for me. Peach Kiss I was very disappointed in - I think it was way too frosty. But I still wear those 2 colours at least at night while I sleep just so they get used and I have found my lips are softer and I have to exfoliate them less.
They are reasonably priced and I would recommend these to someone who's looking for a moisturizing lip balm but also a lip colour that can be used day to day (but you can buy in a clear colour as well). I'm not really "wowed" by these but they're decent and I'll likely keep using.
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Mongos Grill
My sister took me here while I was home over Christmas. At first I was like, "Oh, stir fry". I'm kind of picky about what I like in stir fry. So this place is perfect for people like me! The cost is totally reasonable at about $10 for lunch... +
My sister took me here while I was home over Christmas. At first I was like, "Oh, stir fry". I'm kind of picky about what I like in stir fry. So this place is perfect for people like me! The cost is totally reasonable at about $10 for lunch. There are rows and rows of all the food you could think of to add to a stir fry - veggies, seafood, meat, noodles, pasta, oils, seasonings, everything. Just grab a bowl and stack. Then you take it to the grill and they cook it up right there for you and you get rice or tortillas to go with. Honestly, best food I've ever ever had. Period! I'd recommend any day, any time! The staff is very friendly and the setting is very cozy. Awesome place! -
Marc Anthony 2nd Day Clear Dry Shampoo
I tried this on a whim because I saw it at the store and was needing more dry shampoo anyways. I was intrigued because it claims to boost volume and absorb excess oil between washes. I used some at night before going to bed to see how it would look... +
I tried this on a whim because I saw it at the store and was needing more dry shampoo anyways. I was intrigued because it claims to boost volume and absorb excess oil between washes. I used some at night before going to bed to see how it would look in the morning. It's pretty decent - does make a difference in absorbing the oil but I didn't notice any volume added. That required some back combing! It is nice that this is colourless so it can be used on any colour of hair. It smells good and did leave my hair feeling refreshed. I fear the bottle is quite small and will run out quickly - especially with me because my hair is so thick. All in all, I like it but I'm still looking around for my "go-to" dry shampoo! This isn't it for me. I'll keep it in my gym bag probably. But I do recommend it as it is a good starting point when experimenting with dry shampoos. -
Maybelline New York Lash Stiletto Mascara
This mascara is pretty decent. It coats all lashes very well and certainly adds plenty of length and definition. It doesn't flake or smudge at all either. With this mascara, it all comes down to preference. Personally, I like thickening mascaras... +
This mascara is pretty decent. It coats all lashes very well and certainly adds plenty of length and definition. It doesn't flake or smudge at all either. With this mascara, it all comes down to preference. Personally, I like thickening mascaras over lengthening. So I did like it, however, I'd prefer a different mascara. That said, I do plan to keep it and use it probably for work/business casual activities. Price is pretty average for drug store mascara so I definitely recommend if you want length! -
COVERGIRL Blast Flipstick Lipcolor
Apparently this product isn't officially released until Spring 2012 - but I found it at Walmart for a presale. This lip colour isn't even shown on the CoverGirl website yet! Basically it's a lip colour that has 2 colours, one on each... +
Apparently this product isn't officially released until Spring 2012 - but I found it at Walmart for a presale. This lip colour isn't even shown on the CoverGirl website yet! Basically it's a lip colour that has 2 colours, one on each end. One is supposed to be a cream finish and the other a shimmer. I like that the colours are completely complementary so you automatically have the perfect mix for an ombre lip. I bought mine in Smooch and the colours mix to a perfect holiday red for my complexion!
This product is not very moisurizing I find so you will definitely need a lip balm underneath and perhaps a dab of clear gloss over top if you'd like added shine. It's a little on the expensive side - I think I paid $12. I probably will try this in another colour once the one I have now is all gone.
I can't say I recommend it, but I also do not not recommend it. It's all about preference! If you like to change up colour intensity or go for an ombre lip then this is great. If not, a reg lipstick will also do the trick for a few dollars cheaper!
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Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Oil of Morocco
I really don't know for sure how "legit" this stuff in terms of being actual moroccan oil. It's not amazing but it doesn't suck either. I think if you're looking for the real stuff this obviously is not the stuff you want to buy! But... +
I really don't know for sure how "legit" this stuff in terms of being actual moroccan oil. It's not amazing but it doesn't suck either. I think if you're looking for the real stuff this obviously is not the stuff you want to buy! But I just bought it on a whim and thought I'd try it. It is good for smoothing down hair, adding gloss, etc etc. but nothing that an ordinary serum can't already do. And it smells great! So even though it's not necessarily "legit" oil of morocco and may not actually improve the health of your hair (to the best of my knowledge) I think I'd still use it just for the smell and the fact that I do like the glossy shiny effect it gives.
So for a serum, I would recommend. But if you're looking for oil of morocco, get the real stuff.
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Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria
This has become one of my FAVOURITE restaurants EVER! It's still a very new chain and right now is in Alberta and BC. I have heard they're looking to expand even further and I have no doubt that this will be accomplished very soon! There are... +
This has become one of my FAVOURITE restaurants EVER! It's still a very new chain and right now is in Alberta and BC. I have heard they're looking to expand even further and I have no doubt that this will be accomplished very soon! There are a couple opening in the Toronto area in spring, summer and winter 2012.
The fellows who started this chain were inspired by the authentic fire roasted pizzas in Naples and brought this taste and authenticity to Canada. And they did an awesome job! Their pizzas are cooked at 900 degrees F for 90 seconds to seal in flavours and give that fire roasted taste. My husband and I have been SO impressed with the quality of the pizza. Words cannot even describe how delicious they are - as well as the incredible variety to choose from (including create your own). We took some out of town friends of ours there and they are also hooked now as well! When you think real Italian pizza, this is what you'd expect to get. It is phenomenal. That's why I put this restaurant in the "Italian" category and not "Pizza" category. I feel like only saying it's "pizza" is an understatement. This stuff is legit.
The pizzas are only about 11 in. and cost about $15 so I don't think I'd ever order from here for a pizza party or a large get together since one pizza really only feeds 1-2 people so it can get pricey. But for a night out or for just a few people, it's perfect. So much better than any "fast food" pizza joint. Do keep in mind that the crust is quite thin - just for those who like a fuller crust. But trust me, it's not a deal breaker (I'm a full crust person myself).
So the pizza is FANTASTIC and the dessert is also incredible. There's tiramisu (so creamy and moist), gelato (creamiest ever), and even a Nutella pizza (omg). Also great coffees - mochas, lattes, cappuccinos, americanos (including a Nutella Mocha! These people are Nutella nuts). All delicious.
The restaurant ambiance and setup is gorgeous. Dimly lit, brick walls, and lovely chandeliers. It's great for a quiet romantic dinner. It always smells like spicey sausage, fire roasted goodness, and basil leaves.
The ONLY thing I don't like is the fact that you have to walk up to the counter to order. All your server will really do is bring your drinks and food, the rest is up to you. When I go out, I do prefer to be waited on so I can relax and socialize. I feel like because of this set up, the servers are kind of lax when it comes to quality service. And that's the only reason I did rate it 5/5. However, this is still a new chain so there may be a few things for them to iron out still and it certainly isn't anything that would keep me away!
Like I said, this has become one of our favorite places so if you have a chance to go to a Famoso, GO! Don't walk, RUN! Best pizza of your life and I'd even venture to say even best gelato. You will not regret it!
Now I'm hungry........
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Sephora Collection Bronzing Powder
I tried this in Los Cabos which is a "matte universal" tan colour. The first Sephora bronzer I ever tried was I guess the line right before this one and in the shade Bahamas which was literally 100% PERFECT for me. But it was discontinued so I tried... +
I tried this in Los Cabos which is a "matte universal" tan colour. The first Sephora bronzer I ever tried was I guess the line right before this one and in the shade Bahamas which was literally 100% PERFECT for me. But it was discontinued so I tried this. It is very natural and I like that there's no glitter (there is glitter in other shades if you prefer). I'd rather add my own highlighter than have extreme amounts of glitter. It's easily blendable and looks very natural. Doesn't look muddy or dirty and I do think this would suit most skin tones as it's easily blendable if you're darker and would like more colour. It's a little expensive at about $18 but it is worth it!
Given the choice of their old line of bronzers, I'd pick the old one just because Bahamas suited me even more than Los Cobos. But it's still a great product. I plan to use it even through the winter since it still nicely warms non-tanned skin without looking obviously like you're wearing bronzer. I recommend giving it a try!
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Sephora Perfecting Ultra-Smoothing Primer
At first I wasn't sure what to think of this product but I've decided that I like it. It does what it claims which is that it perfects skin's appearance and prolongs the wear of your makeup. And it really does last a LONG time! At least... +
At first I wasn't sure what to think of this product but I've decided that I like it. It does what it claims which is that it perfects skin's appearance and prolongs the wear of your makeup. And it really does last a LONG time! At least most of the time. I put on my makeup in the morning and rarely need any touch ups through the whole day, and sometimes even until the evening. However, sometimes makeup does seem to fade. Maybe it depends how much primer I put on?
Anyways, it really does work. I have this in Luminous so it gives a pearly/dewy finish which I love. I don't use a highlighter when I wear this, I find no need. Also great for use as an eye primer.
There are a few cons. One being that I find my skin looks a little more shiny than normal but it's nothing that some blotting papers and a dab of powder can't fix. The smell is awful! But luckily it doesn't last. The one most annoying thing is the bottle. It's an air pump and apparently unscrewing the lid will completely render the bottle useless (I made that mistake and had to exchange it). So the primer kind of comes out sporadically when you're trying to pump some out. It's just annoying. I'd rather have it in a squeeze bottle or something.
But this stuff does work and provides an excellent base for a very reasonable price. I'd certainly recommend it to anyone looking for a decent primer.
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