Dear D'Arcy

By D'Arcy Vandenberg

3 Way’s to entertain with ease!

3 Way’s to entertain with ease!

bar cart entertaining

{Dress} here and similar Here, here here. {Shoe} here and similar here {bar cart} Vintage but Similar Here and here {glasses} Here and Similar here {home} target $3 bin Sold out Similar here {ring} sold out, similar here and here

bar cart entertaining

bar cart entertaining

bar cart entertaining

bar cart entertaining

bar cart entertaining

Hello, Beautiful’s,

I want to share with you 3 easy way’s to entertain with ease! You know how much I love to entertain, and I love quick impromptu small gatherings. So I found some easy way’s to make for a “pop-over visit” for a girl’s night or a Couple’s date night! 

#1 Make it simple. You can have a great night without having to slave in the kitchen. I love having people over for drinks, and a simple appetizer or one of my favorites is, Dessert and drinks after having dinner out!  This allows you to keep it simple and not have to take a lot of time to prepare.

#2 Being Prepared!  Having a few entertaining pieces, you love. Pretty glasses, a great serving tray or bowl.  Even having a bar cart (even if you don’t drink) makes serving easy yet keeps your theme in check! Please view some of my favorite past bar cart tips Here, here, and here!

#3 Keep the drink and food easy!  Paring great champagne or Prosecco with a fruit platter or my favorite Strawberries and homemade fruit dip!  (my family’s favorite & it’s quick!) Recipe below!   If you want to serve a cocktail, I always suggest a special cocktail ( find out your guest’s alcohol choice). Create a drink around that!  Say it’s vodka. You can make a Moscow mule and serve it with a cheese and cracker platter or a great crudite platter. Serving 1 kind of drink helps you enjoy your company and not act as a bartender! I love drinks I can make in a pitcher! Sangria, Rum punch, Vodka lemonade, Mojitos. 

Entertaining doesn’t have to be expensive or hours! Some of my most favorite get together’s happened spur of the moment! This is why being prepared is key! I can have friends drop over at any time, and I can easily throw something together.  Here is a list of some of the things I like to always have in my pantry and fridge. This helps you entertain quickly and with ease.

Assortment of cheeses (even cream cheese or Boursin, these make a great veggie dip)  

Assortment of crackers and nuts

Fresh fruit and veggies

A bottle of wine, vodka, Rum

Club soda or La croix

Having these items on hand really helps for throwing a quick and yummy platter together fast! Who doesn’t love to snack on these!  As for the drinks, I found that you can create something if you have these staples, even if it’s a wine spritzer with fresh fruit!

 

Strawberry dip recipe:

A jar of  Marshmallow fluff

A Block of Cream cheese

A teaspoon of  vanilla 

mix all ingredients, serve in a pretty bowl with strawberries. Yum! (it’s great to dip a strawberry in champagne first, then in the dip!) 

I hope you throw a fun and easy get-together soon! OX, D’Arcy

This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own. Thank you so much for being so supportive!

Nordstrom Beauty Buy’s…Item’s I always stock up on!

Hello Beautiful’s,

I wanted to share a few of my favorite things, I always stock up on at the Nordstrom Anniversary sale! If you noticed, I don’t really push the sale or do a ton of featuring! I really do believe it gets a ton of coverage and you see the same top picks from everyone. I like to share with you thing’s I really love or think makes for great wardrobe building. (Did a couple of stories here) I did share a large post on Nordstrom’s SALE items, not from the Anniversary sale Here… These where items I either already owned or felt they were a great deal. Even better… you didn’t have to be a card holder!

As for the Beauty product part of the SALE, I always look forward to these items being on the sale and at great price’s you just can’t beat! You really need to stock up on! #1 I love the Kiehl’s lotion, it hydrates your skin so well & makes your skin silky soft. This large bottle last a really long time. #2 If you know me, you know I am obsessed with Drybar and their products, so when I can get on a sale, Yippee….I am stocking up! #3 I am a big fan of the Nude lips and I love Mac. Every Anniversary sale they do some kind of lip kit and I always grab at least one. #4 Evian water spray is a MUST for Summer, I love how it helps to keep your face refreshed and on these hot Summer day’s it’s great to spritz all over, for a great quick cool down! (if you watch my instastories you’ll see, I included this in my July must haves, I’ve been using!) #5 Best smelling deodorant you’ll ever use! I love how it goes on, how it feels, works amazing and I never feel sweaty! Did I mention how good it smells?   These are 5 of my most favorite items, I use all the time, year after year and never get tired of.  Thank you for taking the time to stop by and read, if you happen to use my shopping links, I really appreciate you! 

 

#1 Jumbo Creme de Corps Bottle with Pump

Kiehl’s Creme de Corp

Price Sale:$52.00 Free Shipping Original Price After Sale:$75.00
 

#2. Here, There, Everywhere Set

DRYBAR

Price $52.00 Free Shipping

($75 Value)
What it is: A four-piece hair care set featuring Drybar favorites in full and travel sizes.
 
hair care product

#3. MAC Nude Lip Trio

MAC COSMETICS

Price $36.50 Free Shipping

($54.50 Value)
What it is: A trio of neutral lip colors for the perfect pout.What it does: The Lipstick is formulated to shade, define and showcase the lips.
lip kit

#4. Facial Water Spray Set

EVIAN

Price $18.00 Free Shipping

($33 Value)
What it is: A facial spray imported from a unique underground water source at the base of the French Alps to hydrate, blend and revive all skin types.
water hydration for your face
 
 

#5.Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant Trio

DONNA KARAN NEW YORK

Price $65.00 Free Shipping

($81 Value)
What it is : A deodorant set featuring an advanced formula that controls wetness and perspiration while keeping you feeling dry and smelling fresh all day. 
best deodorant

Self-employed, and I Why I sold my Boutique.

Self-employed, and I why I sold my Boutiques.

Feeling Getting real with you today, beautiful!

self employed boutique owner

Boutique owner

If you have followed me, you know I owned my clothing boutiques for eight years. Some of you may have known I owned my home decor/ interiors and scrapbooking shop in California for ten years before moving to Utah.

Yes, self-employed for 21 years! ( 3 years of doing interior design freelance work)  Most of you have asked why to sell. You are living a lot of woman’s dreams, owning a boutique. 

Getting Real

Well, I am getting real with you! Being a Girl Boss and being self-employed is terrific in many ways and just as stressful in others. While I loved almost every minute of it…I was tired!

Tired of working 70-80 hours a week, tired of missing dinner with my family, tired of paperwork & bills, and stressed at what the economy or even the weather would bring.

Daily to-do’s of owning your business isn’t just ordering pretty things, displaying them, and building beautiful relationships. However, that is all part of the joy.

There was so much joy in growing our little clothing boutique to 3 stores, a website, and even a monthly subscription box. 

With each new adventure and growth came challenges and more of my time. Yes, I made great money….with even more significant sacrifices, and it was time to make some changes.

Selling the Boutiques

I didn’t know I would sell the shops or even what I would do next. I just knew I wanted a change and that blogging and social media were my new passion, and I would love to be able to spend time learning more about them. But owning a business takes up all of your time.

Then, through God’s plan, I was lucky enough that A name popped into my head, and I knew it was right, and the business was sold in 1 week! Now what…Starting over at 46 and taking on a new career? Scary, yet…exciting!

Sold

It’s been six months since I sold… Do I miss it? I can honestly say no!

Do I miss searching for the most fabulous items to bring in, doing all the displays, and creating a fun look for all my customers? Yes, I do; most of all, I miss all the fabulous customers and loyal clientele I enjoyed working with over the years.

I truly felt I had built a family, and I appreciate all those who supported me and our small business over the years. I will never forget so many happy faces and great conversations! so blessed to have had that time and support from all that shopped with us.

What the Future Holds

I appreciate those who follow my blog and social media, and I am grateful for those who shop my links and like or comment on posts, as this is how I am trying to build my next business.

I have had so many of you ask, “how you make money blogging and social media?”  Think of it as a Marketing firm…I am marketing products and brands that I love! (will go into this in another post) 

I want you to know I do not promote companies I don’t truly love or haven’t tested out. I want you to feel you can trust me ( just like at my shops) and that I want to share advice and idea’s that are helpful to you, just like I did at the stores.

So, you’re asking yourself, is she self-employed? Didn’t I want a change… Yes, I am still self-employed ( I have been trying to get a job while building this new adventure, more on that next!)

What is different 

Yes, I wanted a change (remember… I enjoyed the time to try this new love of blogging and social media). Owning a storefront differs from working from home; even though you must be dedicated, you can schedule your work time around your family time. I don’t have to be open 10-6 and then stay at the shop until 9 or 10 pm to get everything I need to do that day! 

Do you want to open a boutique? do you want me to do a post on tips, what you need, or how to do it?) 

So, in short, it means the world that you stopped to read this blog post, liked a Facebook or Instagram post or followed youtube; it helps my rating more than I could ever explain. 

A little explanation of one of the ways I make money

I receive a tiny percentage when you shop my links. On my blog or posting & sharing discount codes, shopping my Liketoknowit, and Amazon Storefront. This is at no cost to you. 

Follow my Like to know it where you can shop my looks, get sales alerts, see app-only content, and get inspiration.

I also have an Amazon Store Front. You’ll find curated shopping boards, product reviews, and my picks.

Helping women look and feel good at any age.

I appreciate all of your support, and if you ever have a question on styling, a product, or interiors, comment below or email me, and I will try to help you in any way I can. My goal is to help women look and feel good at any age.

This was why I created Dear Darcy, a play on Dear Abby; I want to help & share!

The Job hunt

As for looking for a new job or career at 46 years old and the last 21 years of being self-employed, it has been one crazy & complex process!! AND… if I hear one more time, I am “overqualified”…I want to scream!!!    While building this new business and learning a ton, It will be a while until I can make a living to support my spending habits!

LOL,  I was hoping to start a new career with a 401k…hehe, No, really, I want to branch out and try something different but still be creative! At first, I started looking at management positions, not focusing on creativity, and Boy…that was a huge mistake!!!

Taken a Job I thought I wanted

I took a job that was a massive 2 1/2 month process to get hired and so stressful ( that should have been a clue!) It was nothing like the position I thought I signed up for! I never felt so out of place and realized I couldn’t use any of my strengths!

This was a great lesson, and I realized I need a job where I can be creative, deal with people, use my strengths, and still have time to blog: a full-time job, 40 hours a week instead of 70. I am on the hunt…I had a couple of interviews last week, and I’ll keep you posted.

Meanwhile, if you need help decorating your home, staging a house, marketing something, planning a party, styling your outfits, or organizing your closet… I am your girl; contact me:). If you hear of a great job that you think I’d be great for, please message me. 

I hope this answered some of your questions and gave you insight into why I did what I did and what I am doing now! Again thank you so much for your support and for following along on my journey.

self employed boutique owner

Top {Anthropoligy} sold out, belt {Hermes} sold out, Jeans {kut from the Kloth} shoes {Gianni Bini} Similar here

self employed boutique owner

Whether you are a Girl boss or a Mom boss, I hope you enjoy your work. If not, I have inspired you to start over at any age!

 

 

 

8 must have Spring items! Watch my Fashion segment Today on @Fox13

8 spring items you need

leather Jacket sold out, white tee sold out similar here, Skirt here, flowers here, wedges here

standards and practices

8 items every woman needs for Spring

 

8 items ever woman needs!

 

8 items ever woman needs!

 8 Must have Spring items, Every woman needs to have in her Spring wardrobe!                                                                    I added a couple of choices so my Shopping list is 13 items                                                                                1.| Blessed Tee 2.| HAPPY  tee 3.| Chambray Skirt 4.|Utah Tee                                                                             5.|Sunset Tee 6.|Statement earrings 7.| Wedge 8.| Wedge                                                                                       9. Ark Bag 10.|Ciara round bag 11.|Sunglasses 12.|Denim jacket                                                                          13.|White Jeans                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    8 Must have Spring Items, every woman needs to have in her Spring wardrobe!                                 Great wardrobe builders and basics to dress up items you might all ready have in your closet. I love pieces that are on trend but aren’t really “trendy” by this I mean you can add any of these pieces to your wardrobe and have them to pull out for seasons to come. Classic white jeans, a denim jacket that is a perfect layering piece, a neutral bag in a fun shape, a basic chambray shirt, you really can’t go wrong! Add a fun bag & a statement earring to your closet favorites and it give your whole outfit the look of being all new! All 8 of these piece help build your wardrobe and give it a touch of Spring.                            
–Denim Skirt= Really this flattering skirt is chambray, soft and a flattering length that you can dress up or wear with tee shirt and flip flops. A great wardrobe staple piece. This company specializes in sizes 0-22 with on trend and great quality pieces.  Standards and Practices, is one of my New favorite shopping sites.
–Graphic tees =Everyone loves a tee shirt and cute Graphic’s, sayings and state speciality tee’s are a big trend this spring!  (This cute local Utah company)  My Humble Threads makes the cutest specialty tee’s unique, soft and so cute! Get an extra 15% off with my code HEROES I love to support woman owned local companies, go check this one out! Items for babies to adults.
– Spring bags = You’ll love these bags and are seeing with every Spring outfit look… There On my Hottest trends ALERT, The Ciara round bag and the Ark Bag. Perfect for lunch or the beach you’ll use these bags every Spring and Summer! A great Straw or bamboo bag will always be in style! On sale Now at The Bagtique
–Statement earrings =bright and colorful to dress up any outfit, light weight and right on trend at an affordable price. On SALE now for $15 at The Bagtique
– Sunglasses =A great new pair of Sunglasses that go with everything and come in several colors Here
–White jeans =People get nervous about white jeans but they really do go with everything and look great on every shape. I personally think everyone should grab a pair!
– Denim jacket =Perfect for layering and a great basic! Kut from the Kloth is my favorite, as I have stated before here and here for more styling options. It’s fit is so flattering and tapers in at the waist for a slimming effect. 
–Wedge sandal =easy to wear elongates the leg and looks great with jeans to skirts! It’s a must have trend again this year. I can stand in these all day long, so comfortable!

 

I will be talking more about these 8 must have Spring piece today on Fox13 The Place! Heres the link to view the show.

 

I hope you enjoyed my picks! Let me know if you grabbed any of the pieces or if you have a stying question! Ox, D’Arcy

All opinions are my own, I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in and this may contain affiliate links. Thank you for taking the time to read and for your support.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Let’s talk 40’s….Woman in our 40’s..Ready? It’s getting real!

outfit of the Day

Outfit details: Off the shoulder top on sale here, embroidered Jeans, Sandals sold out similar here, trench coat Similar here, sunglasses here, handbag sold out similar here

Ok, let’s get real…. You know I am 46 and age hasn’t really never mattered to me. My best friend Danielle is 10 days older then I am (yes..I enjoy saying that! hehe) We have enjoyed many of our Birthday’s together…. Sweet 16, our right to vote 18, Our mom’s taking us to gamble at 21 and with each one she was a little terrified of whats was to come. She really didn’t want to turn 25 (no real reason why?) Our 30th birthday I think was her hardest (my mom said that was her hardest too) I never had a thought of our age at any year and would just giggle at her and told her “we never look our age.. it’s all good” Did you have a birthday you dreaded? Then comes then one most people dread 40…Do you know our 40th Birthday she didn’t even flinch or say one comment about turning 40…Could it have been, we finally really get comfortable about who we are at 40?     

I have enjoyed every age, each has it’s plus and minus. I remember my mom saying back when I was a teenager ” I loved being a teenager but you couldn’t pay me to go back!” At that time I thought why? you loved it, it’s such a fun time and carefree…. ( it’s different being a teenager now!)  Now, as I am raising young adults, I get what she was saying. I also had great teenage years and I would not go back either. I have truly embraced every age and all the lessons and joy!  BUT… and there is a BIG BUT…40’s has some of the Biggest changes…some good, some challenging and some funny if you can laugh at yourself!   

After 40, some funny things that happen to you that doesn’t always get talked about. Some things are kind of funny ( like the arm reach out with the menu, that we teased our parents about!)  My eye’s just started having issues this year. After 46 years of 20/20 vision my mom said “D’Arcy Michelle are you wearing readers?” yup, yup I am! Cute ones here🙂 for $6.99

At 40 I noticed I was gaining weight (I was lucky and never really had a weight issue, yes everyone always wants to lose 5-10 lbs in the Summer!) but really never anything more then that. At 40 I really was struggling and my Ob Gyn Dr. said I was fine and all my blood work was fine…but I didn’t feel fine? It wasn’t until I turned 43 that I knew I wasn’t fine and searched out a solution to help me!  It was having my Hormones done by a hormone specialist, let me tell you it was life changing! ( I have talked more about this in prior post Here) our hormones change at different times for each individual but most of us notice a difference in our weight, hair, skin and tiredness starting at 40. Once my hormones were regulated I felt like my old self.  Hormone changes is something more woman need to share with each other and know it’s ok to talk about! It’s 2018 we can share what’s going on with our bodies at any age!  

After 40 our hair thins out, yet we get more on our FACE! What…. Nobody tell’s you you’ll need these…Unless you have a make-up artist sister!     “Please someone, when I can’t see any more.. pluck the hair out of my mole!” This has become a joke with a few of my girlfriends!  

Skin changes not just the tightness of our skin, or the creepiness but the dryness! In the last year my skin is so dry and I can’t seem to get enough moisturizer on my face & neck. (some night’s all slather on Vaseline!)  For other’s it can be the on set of adult acne, REALLY?  Didn’t we already go through that as teenagers? Here is a product my girlfriends with this issue are loving! I found these couple product’s really do help with dryness Here and Here.  Also drinking a ton of water helps and I have been adding this to mine, but you do really have to have a morning and night beauty routine. No more going to bed with out washing your face. I love this product to remove make up!

Our kids are older ( depending on when you had them) Which gives us freedom and our lives back with our hubby’s…. But sadly there is no more Santa clause or egg hunts! This was our first year Santa didn’t come and our first Easter without having an egg hunt. Heartbreaking “No more little’s” Don’t get me wrong as sad as that sounds… I loved those day’s and will cherish the memories…but getting to actually lay on a lounger and drink a cocktail next to my husband by the pool is quite relaxing, not having to be in the water all day and hear “mommy look at me, watch me!” and turn into a wrinkled prune:) We’ll miss those day’s without “Littles” for the brief time before our children start to have children and we get to play with those darling grand babies….it could be a short window of time for some, so take joy in that time you get to have a little time for yourself and your spouse. See 40’s isn’t that bad!

40’s can bring your periods back like when you were a teenager!! Lucky they have a procedure called an ablation. Which makes it so you won’t ever have another period without effecting your hormones. I have had several girlfriends go this route and love it! “Couldn’t do that as a teenager!”

Sleeping changes in our 40’s and a lot of it has to do with our hormones…. Progesterone help’s us sleep and we started losing it in our 30’s…. If you have issues have them check that, before reaching for sleeping aids!  (once my hormones were regulated…I started sleeping like a teenager again!) 

Sex…Yes I said it! Sex can be the best you’ve ever had! See 40’s has some plus’s! I won’t go into detail…but this I am guessing has a big part to do with being comfortable in your own skin…you know who you are at 40….I am sure you can take where I am going with this from here:) wink!

Life over 40….I personally feel you know who you are in your 40’s and you can be in “your own skin” Nobody to impress, your career is on it’s way, your family is established, hopefully your marriage is strong and you’ve established your true friends and support system and if your really lucky your parents are still around and healthy to enjoy them too. Let’s face it as we age they do too. 

  Life will always have up’s and downs, twist and turns but really age is just a number…embrace it & laugh as you go….Just make sure to look Chic at every age:) WINK:) OX, D’Arcy

Are you experiencing something you didn’t know you would or think we should talk about? Comment below let’s help each other out:)

All opinions are my own, I am not a Doctor so please seek advice from a physician. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in and this may contain affiliate links. Thank you for taking the time to read and for your support.

Spring Beauty round up & A Fresh floral outfit

Spring outfit, Bright colors & white

Spring outfit, Bright colors & white

Spring outfit, Bright colors & white

Spring jacket similar here, and an affordable one here Summer dress similar here, and a floral one I love Here White wedge sandals similar here and must have bag here and another one I think you would love here!

spring bag

Cult Gaia Bamboo hand bag & old Juicy ring similar one here

Hello Beautiful’s,

Today I want to share with you some of my favorite products and some new favorite’s I have found for Spring. I am having Spring fever with all this rain and grey skies in Utah, I thought I would also share my latest “ready for Spring outfit” a fresh floral look I wore over the weekend and had tons of compliments on my jacket (that is over 20 years old!) It looks new because I really do only wear it a couple times every spring…It just screams SPRING with it’s bright colors and helps cure the blues! The colors make me happy and the large flowers reminds me of the 70’s which takes me back to my childhood! I really think you should buy clothing that speaks to you and if it brings back a memory even better!       Now to my Spring beauty round up….I know you will love these products like I do and I hope if you grab a couple you’ll come back here and comment your thoughts.

 

skin care

The perfect mask to make your skin glow! Bare minerals face mask

Coconut body glow

The product that gives your skin a little shimmer, while giving you moisture your skin needs!          BodyGlow by Kopari Beauty

Coconut body glow

You know I love anything coconut and this product is perfect for a light weight oil that helps give you moisture with out being sticky.  BodyOil By Kopari

beauty products

A Perfect product to help you Contour like a pro….Bare minerals bronzer & highlighter

Summer bronzer

We all need a great bronzer for Summer and this one you can use all over! Buxom Bronzer

Lip plumper

I am a sucker for a good lip gloss & it’s a plus if it has a plumper! I love all the colors and that it’s not sticky! Buxom lip gloss

nude shade eyeshadow pallet

I love a great nude palette, it’s perfect for that “no make up” look Buxom eyeshadow pallet

hair care product

All hair types need a great hair oil to keep our hair in tip top shape, special after the dry WINTER…. kerastase-elixir-ultime-original-oil-huile-sublime-hair-oil

Strengthening leave-in treatment for weak, over-processed and damaged hair.

 

Shopping some of my personal Favorite products perfect for Spring! (really any season) I linked all the products above but I am linking the shopping sites below as well.  So many great products sometimes it’s hard to choose.  Happy Shopping!

Buxom Cosmetics, Kerastase, Kopari, BareMinerals

Hello Beautiful

Musely Collagen & Multivitamin powder

Hello Beautiful by Musely is a collagen & multivitamin powder that you can add to coffee or your water bottle. That is suppose to increase skins firmness by 23%. We start loosing our collagen in our 20’s and because great skin doesn’t just happen with what you slather on top- it comes from within… I plan on using for 40 days and will report back to you. As I post this I noticed their having a SALE $26 instead of $35… Grab a box or 2 

Are you guy’s getting Spring fever or Spring cleaning? I started Spring cleaning over the weekend as well as organizing to get ready to sell our home to down size (I shared some of my organizing in my instagram stories view in highlights) This is the longest we have lived in a house (12 years) in our 25 years together and we decided now is the time to sell and build our dream smaller house (I already started sketching) …. Just in time for Spring cleaning!  Oh…the stuff I have collected over the last 12 years not to mention having owned 3 clothing stores….My props and seasonal items are out of control! So needless to say I have been working like crazy cleaning out, donating, organizing and down scaling (I’ll make sure to do a post on the whole house and every room before I de -personalize it)….I know some of you are saying “didn’t you just build your DREAM kitchen?” Yes..Yes I did and it took me years…and the counter tops go in a few day’s and I will share with you the finished product! It really is beautiful and I will miss not being able to enjoy it….sometimes that’s just the way live goes. Great things are always worth the wait! 

As they say Spring is a fresh start….BOY are we getting them…. exciting things happening…..Our oldest is graduating college, I am starting a new career and we’re selling our home! Good things happen in 3’s:) I did have to keep telling my self this a couple of months ago when bad thing’s happened in 3’s & happing in our life… Every time I turned around something big was breaking…I would remind myself “good things are happening, good things are happening!” Stay positive in the mist of a storm! It’s hard to do a lot of the time, I just kept putting my faith in God and knowing he was putting us on the right path. Boy..Sometimes his timing just takes sooo long:) So as I sit here rambling on, know what ever is happening in your live good or bad there’s always a fresh path or a “Spring” start no matter the season. 

May you have a wonderful Monday and go buy yourself a Spring treat you deserve it! OX, D’Arcy

All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in. Thank you for your support. 

This post may contain affiliate links.

 

Microneedling To Transform your skin & Help with Fine Lines!

Microneedling to Transform your skin & Help with Fine Lines!  Shown here my First Micro-needling, no makeup

facial

facial

1st micro-needling procedure. They suggest a series of 3

facial

After 1st micro-needling procedure. Pink like sunburn and a little peeling.

Facial

Day after 1st Micro-needling. Pinkness is gone and no peeling. My skin was glowing!

facial

2nd series micro-needling procedure

3rd series micro-needling procedure before

facial

3rd series micro-needling procedure after, We went deeper than the 2 times before! My face looked very red and felt like a sunburn. Also, a little peeling.

facial

3rd in the series micro-needling procedure Day after! Redness is gone, no peeling, and my black dot in my brown spot are gone. Brown spot smaller!

facial series

The Finished series of 3 micro-needling, 1 week later, no filter taken in sunlight. My skin is clearer, my brown spot is smaller, and the black spot went out of the center! My skin is dryer than normal; however, I learned this would disappear in a couple more weeks. I think overall, my skin looks clearer and less blotchy.

facial

Skin texture after the 3 part series was finished! No filter

I had the opportunity to work with Lashed in South Ogden to experience the new trend in facials Microneedling. They should not be confused with the Vampire facial, which is similar but different because they apply a serum after the procedure with micro-needling. But after the vampire facial, they apply your own blood that has had the plasma spun. And a vampire facial has to be done by a doctor, where micro-needling needs to be done by a certified professional.  I really enjoyed working with Lashed to learn more about the process.

Microneedling is a facial. It is not plastic surgery.  You ask: “Then what is Microneedling? The micro-needling treatment uses a handheld needle pen to create controlled depth micro-injuries to the skin. As a result, This stimulates the skin’s natural repair process to produce collagen and elastin.  Microneedling can transform your skin by increasing collagen, reducing wrinkles, shrinking pore size, decreases acne scars, even skin tone, and improve overall skin texture.

You can treat and improve many conditions with the micro-needling, such as: 

-Mild to moderate acne scarring

-fine lines and wrinkles

-loose & lax skin

-skin tone and texture

-Pore size

-Sun-damaged skin

-Superficial pigmentation

-Hypo-pigmentation

-Surgical scars

-Stretch mark

-Hair loss

Depending on your goals and what problem you’re trying to fix will depend on how many treatments you’ll need.  A single procedure will make a nice change, but a series of 3-6 treatments is ideal for optimal results. And Within 2 weeks, you will start to see a change that will continue for 3 months. Of course, some treatments like hair loss or stretch marks take the 6 treatments and a little while longer to see the results. Still, with minimal downtime, 12-24 hours, your skin will love you! 

“Does it hurt?”  You have a numbing cream applied for about 20 minutes before the procedure, and I have to say I was nervous; however, it really didn’t hurt. Because the machine’s noise sounds like going to the dentist, if that noise bothers you, you might want earplugs, but otherwise, it’s pretty quick and feels like a microdermabrasion facial. (a little sandy) 

“What did I notice”… I noticed my brown spot with a black center faded a little after each process and by the 3rd was noticeably smaller and lighter. However, my skin got even dryer, and lines appeared on my cheeks, which I learned happens to some people and is part of rebuilding collagen.  I was told it would go away, and my skin will be tighter in a couple of months!  My skin glowed for a couple of days after the procedure, which I loved.  As a result, my skin has a clearer complexion, smaller lines around my eyes and lips (I am a straw user).  

“Would I recommend and would I do it again?” I would recommend this procedure to anyone looking to improve skin. And  I will do this procedure again, However not every 6 weeks, but I would do it to replace a professional facial, which I do every couple of months. So, therefore, to maintain, I would do it a couple of times a year, thinking quarterly.

“How many times is recommended for a series?” For example, the first time a series of 3, unless used for hair loss or stretch marks, 4 to 6 is needed. After that, a series is done 5-6 weeks apart from each other.

Recommended Maintenance can be done every 6-9 weeks.  

Price? $150 per session, but you may purchase a 3 pack for $400, so it’s a savings of $50

For more information, check out the Lashed website! 

I hope you enjoyed this information and that you may have glowing skin at any age!

Here are a couple of other posts I thought you might enjoy:

7 Tula Beauty products you’ll love

12 Beauty Items I Used Up This Summer

7 At Home Beauty Hacks

This post was a collaboration with Lashed. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in! Thank you for the support.

Note: I am not a doctor, and this is all my personal opinion.

 

Fuel your day with Jamba Juice

starting your day off right

starting your day off right

starting your day off right

juice bar

Happy Saturday beautiful’s!

I am lucky to partner with Jamba juice to share with you Jamba juices new “Fuel your day the Jamba way” Campaign! It’s so important to start your day off with eating something more important to start your day fueling your body with something healthy! Many of us are rushed and just don’t have time to make something at home. I was so excited to learn about Jamba Juices new “Fuel you day menu” Healthy options to start your day off right. Breakfast sandwiches, wraps and oatmeal.

I love a good oatmeal!  My way maybe not so healthy because I love Brown sugar, butter and milk!  Jamba Juice offers steel cut organic oatmeal with soy milk and you can customize with any 2 toppings which you can pick from….Blueberries, apples, strawberries, fresh bananas, nuts, brown sugar, shredded coconut and honey.  Mix any combination for a healthy boost of energy to start your day.  I choose Apples and brown sugar, Delicious!  (oatmeal with soy milk is 200 calories before adding toppings)

The breakfast sandwiches sounded delicious and I will go back and try a few. Here is what they added to the line up… A turkey sausage, roasted red pepper & Gouda breakfast sandwich, 2nd is a bacon, roasted tomato & spinach breakfast sandwich, 3rd is a Spinach and cheese wrap, 4th is a Turkey sausage and cheese wrap. All made with Whole food ingredients for “a whole lot of goodness!” All under 300 calories

Jamba juice also added cold brew coffee blend smoothies to their menu for those of you that needs that little jolt in the morning! Two choice for you coffee lovers…

The Lotta Horchata which is a cold brew coffee with cinnamon, chia seeds, honey, almond milk and non fat yogurt. A small has 210 calories. Sounds super yummy right?

The 2nd is called the La Vida Mocha which is also a cold brew coffee with chocolate moo’d nonfat frozen yogurt. A small is 290 calories. My hubby is a big coffee fan and he loved this drink!

Really running short on time? You can place your order online and have it ready for a quick pick up! www.Jambajuice.com

$2.00 off right now if you order a breakfast sandwich and smoothie. Coupon on website orders.

I hope you have a wonderful Saturday and that you get a chance to go try Jamba Juices new items! OX, D’Arcy

 

In Partnership with Jamba Juice. All opinions are my own.

Staying “Well” through Flu season!

flu season remedy

flu season remedy

flu season remedy

flu season remedy

flu season remedy

flu season remedy

flu season remedy

flu season remedy

Hello Beautiful’s!  

February… normally a cold and dark Winter month. This year Utah really hasn’t had a Winter! I heard the other day its been 70 years since Utah has had a winter with this little snow! But no snow doesn’t mean that the flu season would stay away too! Even though we all wish it would stay away! Yuck, Nobody wants to be sick and I haven’t been sick in over 8 years. I have found a way to keep that flu away….even in the full swing of flu season! I learned about Oscillococcinum by Boiron from a friend 8 years ago and it’s changed how my family and I get through flu season!  Oscillococcinum is a Homeopathic medicine that is safe for ages 2 -up. It reduces the duration and severity of flu symptoms and if you take it just as you are feeling worn down or have the start of a flu symptom you can avoid the flu all together, special if you take a Zinc and up your Vitamin C.

Oscilloccinum is a product you can get anywhere really. The market, Target, CVS, even Costcos has it. It is Quick dissolving pellets that taste like sugar. I swear by this product and tell everyone I know about this crazy named medicine! Note: It’s an expensive product but totally worth every penny! It say’s on box take every hour, I do not take every hour! I take 1 or 2 a day depending on how I am feeling. 

At the market or Drug store it’s $34-37 for a box of 30 I linked you to a deal for $24.23

Vitamin C is great for immune health and an essential nutrient that not only supports immune system but helps Cardiovascular and bone health.  I use the Spring Valley brand, 1000mg with rose hips. Because I can buy a huge jar of it a Costco. So really you can use what ever brand you like 

Costcos is $12-14  I linked you to a best selling brand on amazon $19.99

Zinc cold remedy is also a homeopathic product you take at the first sign of a cold. It melts in your mouth and you cannot drink anything for 15 min. I swear this product takes away a sore throat! You can purchase Zinc anywhere medicine is sold and I always buy the generic brand because its 1/2 the price!

You can find these at every price point so I linked you to a Best seller on Amazon.

I hope you can stay healthy this season and for many more. OX, D’Arcy

Please note: I am not a Doctor, this is just a tip I wanted to share with you on how my family and I stay healthy.

Men’s gift guide for Valentine’s Day

1.Happy Socks 7 Pack Day Of The Week Gift Box 

HOUSEOFFRASER.CO.UK Happy Socks 7 Pack Day Of The Week Gift Box Dress socks.  who doesn’t want fun printed socks? Happy feet with Happy socks! Grabbing  this fun collection of socks for your man will make his week!

2. Ray-Ban Aviator ‘RB3025’ Unisex Gold Frame Light Brown Gradient Lens $134 OVERSTOCK.COM Treat a friend or partner with a stylish and useful gift with these unisex aviator sunglasses, sporting a timeless, old-fashioned look which doesn’t fail to win compliments. These glasses feature brown gradient lenses with 100 percent UV protection to provide strong protection.

3.  EAZO – Leather Laptop Bag   WOLFANDBADGER.COM

Crafted from the vintage-look leather, this highly functional laptop bag is designed to tote your laptop and some accessories. It is large enough for storing a laptop (up to 14”). And it has other interior pockets for storing things like your charger, a few books, and mobile phone. This

4. Mens Personalized Leather Bracelet, Custom Initial Tag, Gift for Man

Rugged and masculine, these beautiful, leather braided bracelets make the perfect gift for your guy on any occasion! The texture combined with our rustic, handmade, sterling silver pendant is fabulous! The dog tag pendant edges are rustic and textured, hand carved and can be personalized. Make a perfect gift for the man in your life.

5. Jack Black Power Trip Travel Set

Jack Black Power Trip Travel Set. A well-rounded skin care travel set that includes our best-selling products to keep your looking and feeling his best for any itinerary. Everything you need for the face, beard, body, and lips. My men love this travel set and makes a great Valentine’s day gift for the men in your life.
 
6.Calvin Klein Euphoria, Eternity and Obsession Mens Fragrance Set

This set is the perfect gift to help your man smell amazing this Valentine’s day. Set includes: Euphoria men, 0.5 oz.; Eternity for men, 0.5 oz.; Eternity for men (aqua), 0.5 oz.; Obsession, 0.5 oz. Made by Calvin Klein.

7.Orange Teal & Black Oversize Fuzzy Blanket Scarf

Words can simply not describe how amazingly soft and luxurious this blanket scarf really is. Made from fuzzy material, this scarf promises to become one of your winter favorites you will continually reach for again and again.. Plush and luxurious, stay warm without compromising on style with this fashionable blanket scarf.. The simple neutral color pattern makes this scarf easy to pair with all your outerwear. This scarf is ideal for both men and women, and presents itself as a wonder gift when received. Living in Utah my Hubby and boys do like a nice scarf, specially one that is soft & cozy.

8.Nature Lover Gift Oak Moss, Candle Oak moss Candle, Earthy Candle

$13 ETSY.COM 

Oak moss: Oak moss is a complex aromatic scent, for men and women alike. This scent has mild jasmine and rose, oak and patchouli, and a slight hint of musk. All a to z candles are made with high quality 100 non-genetically modified soy wax, cotton wicks, and premium fragrance oils. Their products are always cruelty-free and vegan. Wax will always be naturally colored, they don’t use added chemicals. Candle specs: size: 4oz 2 5/8′ h x 2 1/4′ d burn time: 30 hours single wick size: 9oz 3 1/2′ h x 2 3/4′ d burn time: 70 hours single wick size: 16oz 4 1/4′ h x 3 3/4′ d burn time: 100 hours double wick this fragrance is also available in: tin candles tea lights wax melts car fresheners reed diffusers room body sprays head over to their main shop page at atozcandles.etsy.com
Nothing is more romantic then a candle for Valentine’s day and  this masculine candle makes for a great gift.
 

9.Sawdust Is Man Glitter 11oz White Mug

These designs are high quality printed in the USA and won’t wear off like other printing methods can. Their mugs are microwave and dishwasher safe fda approved 11 and 15 ounces design printed on front and back made from the highest grade ceramic printed and sublimated in the united states. All of their mugs are made to order so give yourself enough time when ordering.

10.Personalized monogram gift sports water bottle

Personalized monogram gift sports water bottle. Black and white Stainless steel metallic color. Sporty gift idea for coach, players, team mates and sports fans. Modern typography design with custom name, funny quote, slogan or monogram. Create your own unique monogrammed drink bottle. Suitable for men women and kids / children. Cute Birthday party presents for dad, son, grandson, father, friend, mom, boy, girl, business partner, co worker etc. Available in different colors and size. 18oz or 24 oz drink ware for athletic team, basketball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, golf, baseball, softball, swimming, dancing etc. Who doesn’t need a great water bottle?

11.  24 pc. Signature Chocolate Truffles Gift Box | GODIVA

Godiva Chef Chocolatiers used their creative expertise and the latest techniques along with the finest ingredients to create an intense flavor experience. Featuring the finest dark chocolate and milk chocolate , these chocolate truffles are bound to impress anyone. Pay special attention to the intricacies of each unique truffle in this gift box. For example, the Aztec Spice cocoa truffle features flavorful spices and is topped with red cocoa. This and other pieces make this one of the most delicious chocolate truffles gift boxes to give someone (or enjoy on your own).   My hubby and boys just love chocolate and this big box of truffles wouldn’t last long in our home!

12. Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Hot Cocoa MiX

  • Ghirardelli’s Sweet Ground Chocolate & Cocoa Mix offers a wonderfully rich and complex chocolate flavor
  • Serve as a hot or cold beverage, or use in your favorite recipes for a sweet, rich taste that’s unforgettable
  • The gold standard for making exceptional mochas and amazing baked goods. Made with real Ghirardelli chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla.
  • Hot coco is a perfect winter drink to cozy up with this Valentine’s day and makes a great gift to add to the above mug. You can never have to many cute mugs & hot coco.

I have a house of boys so finding fun Valentines gift’s that they will enjoy and be able to use throughout the year is a task. (except food items….those last about a day!) I created this list from items I have given them or plan on giving them. I know they’ll love whats on this list, I hope you do too!

I’ll be sharing more things to make your Valentine’s day special in the upcoming day’s make sure to check back. Is there anything you would like to see ? OX, D’Arcy