tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79766656178601269212024-03-13T17:52:46.840-07:00Kell's DIY NailsMy adventures with Do-It-Yourself manicures. Nail polish swatches peppered with some off-topic lifestyle posts about cosmetics, fashion, etc. Come sit for a spell and share your thoughts.Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.comBlogger322125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-70481669399930938552019-08-25T13:00:00.001-07:002019-08-25T13:05:52.351-07:00Manglaze Newness: Seamen & Lovesock.Hey y'all!<br />
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Just wanted to let you know I recently posted a few photos to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ManGlaze/?__xts__[0]=68.ARAcbFzJg95__g9j4U_B30xLu8xY-cPm8oDP_u7qNxly_obon7Y9t7bNv0K34lFdbLaaMtHKcNGlNbcPaXubVObe1RwRuCulSjOmNOZ6sBj7wtYxURATLA6pINwrRIllcLJgkmxj41e9bqN96o2bLC_cYFZI3dyk4fKlilvNcsrlFVHgW1A7ECQEY4d59AwYU8u2k2DN66r3kUEF1RttjsMzUlqrF4x7X-UrcBd1KEeT_41Jn1AdTd67ENFVgOKN10U3kx8VYXsArc8ffVEeKF6NHJS_zh-tGzz66NXmjvvM_Z4YLySyxWGYNAfFaRFO9a3PtfuVMarDCMbBRO2M-M9ETA" target="_blank">Manglaze Facebook page</a> of the new shades they launched a few months back.<br />
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<i>Don't hate me cuz I'm nautical</i></div>
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'Til next time...<br />
<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-41868472056472536772019-05-11T19:30:00.000-07:002019-05-11T19:30:07.027-07:00My Story: Laproscopic Tubal Ligation (aka: I got my tubes tied)<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<b><span style="color: red;">Warning: Possible triggers in this Post; Photos of incisions, IVs, and internal organs.</span></b></div>
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Well, Hello! It's been a minute (more like 3 years)...</div>
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I recently had a procedure done that I thought might warrant a blog post; yes, this is a nail blog. I fully realize this isn't really a typical post you would see here. Before I decided to get my tubes tied, I researched to learn as much as I could. I also watched a lot of YouTube videos on people's experiences to prepare myself. My experience ended up being different from a lot of them. This is not due to any pre-existing health issues. As a result, I wanted to put this out there for anyone looking for information and wanting to know what to expect and what can occur. </div>
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Before I delve in, I do want to give an update and talk about why I don't post here regularly anymore. I'm sure none of my regular readers are surprised as my posts had been dwindling down and I did explain as to why that was in those posts. Pretty much the same thing; The job has me working full-time on a 9/80 schedule (I work my 80 hours in 9 days, instead of 10 days); this leaves me with long work days, trying to squeeze in a workout, eat a healthy dinner, and get to bed at a reasonable hour. It's tough to do. My extra day off is typically filled with running errands, vet appointments, grooming appointments, etc. I think you get the point. </div>
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I'm not gonna lie, I miss the blog a lot. I have thought of coming on and posting more but it takes up so much time to take photos, edit them, type up the post, edit the post, etc. that it just becomes too long of a process to manage. Today is one of my flex days (a Friday) and I actually put this day aside to put this post together.</div>
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There have been some changes as well; We finally bought our own house and moved into it in late August of 2016. We are very happy with the location, area, and the house. Plenty of room, and space for my nail polish set-up and of course my makeup and vanity table. I would love to take photos and show you the set-up but I still have a lot of work to do in that room; I need to paint and organize things a little better. Some things were also damaged in the move as well. One day I will get there and maybe I'll be able to get back to the blog a little more regularly (that would be really nice).</div>
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<i>On Friday, March 29th, at 1:45pm I was on the way to the hospital to have my tubes tied; A Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation. I Arrived at the hospital at 2:00 pm. Admitting checked me in and directed me to Ambulatory Services down the hall.</i></div>
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<i>Lisa in Ambulatory Services went through my medical history and details. Provided me with my hospital gown and booties. Once I was dressed (no undergarments or jewelry) and under a blanket, Lisa hooked up my IV on my right arm/wrist, blood pressure cuff on my left arm and finger monitor on my right hand. I did request to have my IV done on my left arm but she had already set-up everything on the right. Doing it in my arm crease would have been in the way for the surgeon so she compromised for me and did my arm/wrist in lieu of the back of my hand. I had never had an IV before (at least that I could remember) so I was pretty anxious about it but she did a great job. I get queasy just thinking about an IV on the back of the hand. </i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2053J5yROHWwvYRzYkdO32wyRAsyM5u5mSlw9e9QSkLWdO2y9heiTD1aG7bgLLeplppCT7slsz5iQO3qPd9Fna_W9h-3Qbx8DARUtB6UwwF-DyYxp0KK9t7E6QmjtvTa2hlDnBsrAqio/s1600/IMG_5388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2053J5yROHWwvYRzYkdO32wyRAsyM5u5mSlw9e9QSkLWdO2y9heiTD1aG7bgLLeplppCT7slsz5iQO3qPd9Fna_W9h-3Qbx8DARUtB6UwwF-DyYxp0KK9t7E6QmjtvTa2hlDnBsrAqio/s400/IMG_5388.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>But check out them cute Saint Patrick's Day nails though...</i></td></tr>
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<i>My husband was there with me and would be staying there at the hospital during my surgery. I was required to have someone drive me home due to the anesthesia. The actual procedure of clamping off the tubes only takes about 7 minutes but the preparation takes longer. They have to get you on the operating table, hook up monitors and arrange equipment around you. Then of course you have to be fully anesthetized, a breathing tube is inserted, and the surgical area is cleaned and prepped. Initially, I was told that my surgery wouldn't start until 5:00 or 5:30pm so I was expecting to sit there for quite awhile. While my husband and I waited in my room, I could feel my anxiety starting to build up and I started crying. Not sobbing but tears were just running down my cheeks. I don't have experience with surgery; I had my lazy-eye corrected when I was 4 years of age, but other than that, NOTHING. Never had a severe injury, broken bones, no hospitalization. The risks are very minimal with this procedure but I was starting to get very scared the longer I waited. Luckily, I was wheeled to OR for staging at 3:30pm. Once we started moving I felt a little better. As long as it was progressing, it was closer to being over, and that's pretty much my goal at this point. I'm looking at that light at the end of the tunnel. </i></div>
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<i>My anesthesiologist, Dr. Rabe, went over my chart with me, and then the OR nurse (didn't get her name) went over my chart with me. Everyone in the hospital was excellent about verifying my name, date of birth, and the procedure I was there for. I walked into the OR Room and got on the very narrow operating table. It was very cold and I began shivering right away. My anxiety was peaked at this point and tears were flowing from my eyes. There were two very large lamps above me; reminded me of the lamps dentists’ use but on steroids. Monitors were taped to me; 2 on my upper chest, 1 on the left side of my ribcage. My arms were placed out at my sides and were secured. Weighted mats were placed over my body. The nurses were talking to me letting me know everything was OK. The anesthesian let me know she was giving me a medication to help me relax via my IV. She placed an oxygen mask over my mouth & nose and told me to breathe deep. She then advised me she was administering the anesthesia; it would burn a little as it entered my vein. I remember feeling the burn for 30 seconds, I thought of my husband & dogs. I heard my doctor, Dr. Guha ask if I was out yet. I closed my eyes and that was it. </i></div>
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<i>I awoke at just a hair past 4:30 pm as I was being lifted from the OR table and placed in my recovery bed. I remember I was dreaming about makeup (LMAO) and I felt like I slept really well. I mentioned that to the nurse who was next to me and she said ‘I hear Tramadol is a really good anesthesia.’ As she smiled. I noticed a clock on the wall and while my vision was blurry, I could still make out the time. I felt really good. I was happy to know that the procedure was done. I felt immediate relief and was smiling. I came out of the anesthesia really well; the nurses even commented that most people don’t come out that well. There was an oxygen mask over my nose and mouth and I was told to breathe deeply to help expel the anesthesia and the carbon dioxide. I requested to sit up and I was asked about my pain level; I said ‘4’ but I probably should have said ‘6’. I was given a very low dose of a powerful painkiller, can’t remember the name of it. After a few moments I felt a little drowsy and I felt the pain improve but it was still there. It felt like a constant dull cramp. I was also hella thirsty and my throat felt really dry (no doubt from the breathing tube). I was asked again about my pain level and I said ‘2’. I asked for another pillow to better prop my head up. Shortly after that, I was wheeled back to my regular room where I could see my husband. As I was being wheeled out of the Recovery Ward, I noticed a heart on a dry erase board; it was done the way I draw my hearts, which I started doing when I had my forever dog, Otis. It felt like a sign that she was watching over me.</i></div>
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<i>Back in my patient room, the nurse from Recovery showed Lisa my bandages and told her to keep an eye on the lower one; it was seeping a little so they marked it with a black sharpie so they would be able to see if it continued to do so. a heating pad was placed on my lower tummy. I began to feel sleepy (the nurse who gave me the pain medication in Recovery told me it might make me drowsy). Lisa brought me some ice chips and then 10 minutes later I got some water. I was in the recovery ward for less than 30 minutes when she asked if I wanted to go home. Of course I responded with an enthusiastic 'YES'. There's no place like home.</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The lower incision on March 31st; it had bled a little right after the proceedure.</i></td></tr>
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<i>I was able to get dressed in my own clothes; I had worn comfy clothing there; the looser the waist band, the better. Lisa got me a wheelchair so she could wheel me out. I felt like I had to urinate but when I sat on the toilet, I couldn't. I was told I should pee within the next 6 hours and if I didn't, to call my doctor's emergency line. They also provided me with prescriptions for pain; Tylenol with Codeine and 600mg Ibuprofen. On the way home we stopped at the drugstore to get them filled. It took about 20 minutes and I carefully walked around and checked out the clearance makeup (what?!? LOL). We then headed home.</i></div>
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At home I set-up on the couch with pillows, blankets, and lot of water. My mouth and throat was still very dry and scratchy. My throat became increasingly irritated and sore over the next 48 hours. I was drinking a ton of water. I was instructed to eat something light like soup after my procedure but I continued to eat soup because it felt good on my throat. Ice cream too. I was propped up because laying flat felt uncomfortable and it was difficult to get up from that position. During the procedure, they pump air (carbon dioxide) into your abdomen so they can get your intestines out of the way. The air pushes them down and that way there is a clear view of the fallopian tubes and they can easily access them. I was told to expect pain in my shoulders as a result of the air but I didn't; I just felt incredibly bloated, uncomfortably so. I wanted nothing more than to void my bowels and pass gas. I finally urinated later that evening and it wasn't painful, but it did feel odd. I didn't have a bowel movement until the following night. It took a few more days before I began to pass gas and I was so happy when I did. The relief was very welcome. When my bladder would get full, my guts would hurt and once my bladder was empty, it would feel like my guts were bruised. Very odd feeling and it lasted a good 2 1/2 weeks. </div>
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I had a difficult time sleeping; the cramping was pretty bad and I woke up several times during the night. I was taking the Tylenol with Codeine initially but it was only a 4 hour pain pill so I started taking the Ibuprofen in the evenings to try and sleep through the night. I also had to pee a lot from all the water I was drinking. I tried sleeping flat in my bed the second night and I had a hell of a time trying to get out of bed. It hurts to engage your core muscles and you don't realize how much you use them to right yourself out of bed. My husband had left to go to the store so I had to take my time and find a way to do it on my own. Sleep was difficult until Tuesday (the 5th day); then I finally slept better, only waking once during the night to urinate. I finally started to feel better, not 100%, but better. I was under the impression that I would feel better much sooner because all the info out there says 24 - 48 hours down time for recovery but in all honestly I didn't want to go to work on Monday & Tuesday. Be aware that you might need to take additional time off. </div>
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Going to work on Monday was much more difficult than I had expected. I was still sore with cramping (my guts felt like they had been kicked) and bloated. I showered the night before and I had bandages that had waterproof tape so I could take a shower but I wasn't supposed to soap up the area. I was instructed to leave the bandages on until my post-op appointment the following Friday. I had to find some pants to wear to work that would not bother my stitches as well, not an easy feat. I ended up wearing some wide-leg linen pants with a stretchy waistband. I only had 2 pairs so the rest of the week was challenging too. I wore some long stretchy skirts. My cramping lasted a good two and a half weeks. I was cleared to start working out after my 1 week post-op appointment but it was very uncomfortable to run for 3 weeks. At 4 weeks I would sometimes feel the scab in my belly button poke me when my waistband was on it. The lower stitches were tender to the touch only; sometimes if I leaned on the kitchen counter it would be right on the lower stitches and it would hurt. </div>
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<b>The Consultation: </b></div>
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When I met with the surgeon for the first time, a pap smear was done and I had to sign a consent form verifying that I had taken at least 30 days to 'think on it' and that I knew the procedure should be considered permanent. </div>
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Because I had done a ton of research; I knew there were different methods for Tubal Ligations. These are some of the most common used today:</div>
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<u>Electorcautery</u>, The fallopian tubes are burned shut and sometimes a piece of the fallopian tube is removed to ensure the tube does not grow back. This was the method that I originally thought would be done for my surgery.</div>
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<u>Filshie Clip</u>, A titanium clip is clipped onto the fallopian tube to create a blockage. Originally, I didn't want foreign objects in my body, but once my doctor had a visual of my pelvic organs, he found that I have a fibroid. Electrocautery can irritate fibroids and create complications so he ended up using filshie clips for my procedure. </div>
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<u>Hulka Clip</u>, a soft pliable plastic clip.</div>
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<u>Falope Ring Band</u>, a silicone band that is placed at the bottom of the looped fallopian tube.</div>
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There are a few other methods, but from what I have read, they are not widely used anymore because they have been found to be either problematic or ineffective. 10 years from now it will be interesting to see what new methods are being used. </div>
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Initially, my surgeon was not going to go over the method so I actually had to bring it up. Once I asked the questions, he was forthcoming with the information. I think some people don't actually want to know what will happen, but I'm someone who wants to know exactly who, what, when, and where. I do best when my expectations are set and I know what to expect. In my case, my doctor explained there would be two small incisions; one practically in my belly button, and the other just above the mon pubis hair line. A scope is inserted through the incision in my belly button. The other incision is used for a probe and the filshie clip applicator. They use a sheath so it is easy to swap these instruments and load the filshie clips. I actually found lots of YouTube videos where they show actual footage from these procedures and you get a view from the scope. It might be difficult for some people to view them but after watching a few, I found my uneasiness go away. It was very interesting and I'm glad I watched those videos. </div>
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My surgeon asked about any existing health issues, my medical history, allergies to medications or latex, and prescriptions I was taking. He asked why I wanted a Tubal Ligation and if I had any children. He didn't blink when I told him I didn't have children or that I wanted to simply get off birth control. He simply notated it in my chart. He did not request my husband's consent or ask if I discussed it with my husband. In all honestly, I find that very odd. I think spouses should be involved in these situations, not necessarily required to consent, but I do think that it's important to verbalize the importance of discussing a permanent procedure like a Tubal Ligation with your spouse. I'm sure doctors have a lot of liability in these situations so I fully understand why they would avoid that discussion. However, if we are talking about doing the right thing, then I think a patient should be encouraged to talk to their spouse. </div>
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My procedure was scheduled two weeks out. Yes. That's how quickly this whole process was moving. I ended up getting bronchitis so I has to push my procedure out two more weeks. </div>
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<b>Pre-Op Appointments: </b><br />
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My pre-op appointments were scheduled for the Wednesday before my procedure. </div>
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I had to go to my surgeons' office to watch a video on Tubal Ligations (once again emphasizing that it is a permanent procedure). The video was much more in-depth in discussing the risks, which are actually very minor but they wanted to make sure that I was fully aware of the various risks and possible complications. I also signed some more paperwork that told me how to prepare for the day of surgery; basically don't eat or drink 10 - 12 hours before the surgery (depending on your anticipated surgery time), don't wear any makeup, wear loose clothing, have a designated person there to drive you home, and do not bring valuables to the hospital. </div>
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Then I had to go to the hospital pre-op appointment where they take my vitals and have me sign more paperwork. This paperwork went over consent for the surgery and pain management. They use a numerical rating scale for pain.<br />
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Then, I had to go get blood drawn so they could do one last blood panel screening. They are also looking to make sure that I'm not pregnant.<br />
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I ended up having to do this twice; the first time was super quick and I got through all of my appointments real quick. Then, I started to realize that my bronchitis would not be resolved in time for the surgery so I had to cancel. The doctor had been really hoping that it would work out but I was coughing like crazy. The 2nd time, each appointment took extra long. I'm not sure why either since I had already gone through it once before.</div>
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<b>Post-Op Appointment:</b><br />
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My post-op appointment was scheduled for the Friday after my procedure (which was also on a Friday).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>April 5th: After removing my bandages at my post-op appointment.<br /></i></td></tr>
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My doctor had me remove the bandages and told me I could have removed them sooner (I was told to leave them on til the post-op appointment). He glanced at them and said they looked good. I mentioned that I was still cramping and not quite feeling 100%, he said that some people take a little longer to resume to normal. This is also when he notified me that he used filshie clips for my procedure and talked about my fibroid. He provided me with some photos as well. I'm not gonna lie, I was super excited to see the photos. I asked if my procedure was recorded too but it was not. They only record if they are using it as an instructional aid. He showed me my ovaries, my fallopian tubes, the fibroid, and my uterus.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Upper Left: Showing the fibroid, uterus, and the right fallopian tube with attached filshie clip.<br />Upper Right: Showing another angle of the fibroid, uterus, and the left fallopian tube with attached filshie clip.<br />Lower Right: My left fallopian tube moved to show my left ovary.</i></td></tr>
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<b>Misconceptions & Social Media:</b><br />
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I've seen some things shared on social media in regards to women's reproductive health rights; specifically I have seen women accuse the government and/or health care providers of violating an individuals right to a tubal ligation. This was not my experience. I also think that there were probably other factor's involved as to why these individuals did not get what they wanted at that moment. There are good doctors and there are bad doctors. An individuals perception can also be skewed when in an emotional state. There are also a lot of highly controversial beliefs that some individuals want to pass off as fact floating around out there.<br />
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My personal experience in talking to my doctor about the Tubal Ligation and the process to get scheduled was very easy. My general practitioner didn't bat an eye and my referral to a surgeon was done in days. The surgeons office called me right away, before I even knew the referral was authorized, to schedule my consultation. My appointment was set a week out; super quick. My surgeon is an older gentleman and at no point did he 'paternalize' me on my decision.<br />
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Here's an article from Snopes (which, ironically, is supposed to be an organization that fights misinformation): <a href="https://www.snopes.com/news/2018/10/19/requirements-women-seeking-get-tubes-tied/">https://www.snopes.com/news/2018/10/19/requirements-women-seeking-get-tubes-tied/</a><br />
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They use bias, not fact, to direct the spirit of the article. If you read carefully you can actually see that they discuss the factual requirements after creating a very strong bias. They also breeze over the fact that you need to take at least 30 days to consider all aspects of the procedure due to the brevity of the procedure. Are you really seeking a permanent form of birth control? Are you aware of the risks associated and willing to accept them? More and More women are reporting issues with <a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&source=hp&ei=T2zXXLnIEMaAk-4PzrK2gAg&q=post+tubal+ligation+syndrome&oq=post+tubal+&gs_l=psy-ab.1.0.0l10.2090.4495..6138...0.0..0.539.1372.12j5-1......0....1..gws-wiz.....0..0i131j0i10.-ffjCok7d14" target="_blank">Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome</a>. While it hasn't been medically proven, I would still educate myself on it; you just never know.<br />
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Here's another article: <a href="https://www.reference.com/government-politics/legal-age-women-tubes-tied-2a7f83487aaf5223">https://www.reference.com/government-politics/legal-age-women-tubes-tied-2a7f83487aaf5223</a><br />
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"<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Roboto Slab", serif; font-size: 16px;">Patients still run the risk of complications from surgery, and the procedure may not even work. Many doctors feel that long-acting reversible contraceptives are better for patients."</span></div>
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I think that's actually not a bad thing to consider. Now, if you have used other forms of birth control and they didn't work for you, then I can see eventually getting to a point of a Tubal Ligation. Also, if you have health issues that you don't want to run the risk of passing onto children; a Tubal Ligation could give you a very secure format of birth control so you would never have to worry about getting pregnant. I had a few close calls (but they were more than enough for me) and I know how stressful that can be.</div>
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I see a lot of discussions about Reversals; it's become very trendy lately. You see announcements of successful Reversals more and more these days. It's creating a false flag in a way because now if the doctor tells a patient it's permanent, the patient still believes it can be reversed because they see people having successful reversals on the internet and social media. The reality is, a reversal is a difficult, much more invasive, procedure. There is a very low success rate. Reversals are very expensive because most insurance will not cover it. </div>
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Age is definitely a factor when considering a Tubal Ligation. Many women who have opted to do a Tubal Ligation in their 20's have had regrets (just look at the increase in talk about reversals on social media). It's incredibly difficult to make a lifelong decision in your early 20's than it is to make it in your mid to late 30's. Things change quickly in only a few years and you could decide that you do want children or more children.<br />
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I've never been a 'kid' person; I've never had that strong desire to be a parent. I'm plenty maternal when it comes to my dogs and my husband, but the desire was never strong to have children. Even in my 20's I knew not to assume that I would never have children because things change and I never felt like I needed to essentially 'jump the gun' and get it done right away. There are so many options out there to practice birth control that it seems like over kill to automatically just jump right to a Tubal Ligation. As life changes we make adjustments as needed.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>April 19th: 3 Weeks Post-Op.</i></td></tr>
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<b>6 Weeks:</b></div>
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Yesterday was my 6 week mark. The belly button incision is healed and the scab is gone; I only have the red scar left. The lower incision is still there and crusty. The stitches have begun to dissolve but are still there. It's pretty red but I've been told it's healing fine. Doesn't bother me, I've almost forgot it's there. I haven't had anymore cramping. I haven't felt any more emotional since going off my birth control. I took my last birth control pill on April 14th; I decided to finish the pack out. On April 17th I started spotting and had my first menstrual cycle; I did have a rough week sleeping, not sure if it is related to the procedure or something else. My flow wasn't bad at all; typical 7 day cycle. Some spotting, normal flow for me, and then end spotting. </div>
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I'm quite happy with my decision; it is allowing me to move forward with some other things I need to focus on. I have had some moments that have made me feel at ease with my decision and I realize it took a little pressure off of me. It's like 'Ok, you made a decision, and it's the right one for you, so let's move forward.'. I have no regrets on not having kids. Today is National Dog Mom Day and I am quite excited about it; I spent the day with my pups and husband and there's no place else I'd rather be.</div>
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Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-49964064984002196022016-02-29T09:00:00.000-08:002016-02-29T09:00:15.271-08:00Nerd Lacquer, Midnight & Phasma.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wQvCGyjGXEU/VtOKos7mM7I/AAAAAAAADgs/8dTFAxIi08k/s1271/Photo%25252020160228160217969.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wQvCGyjGXEU/VtOKos7mM7I/AAAAAAAADgs/8dTFAxIi08k/s500/Photo%25252020160228160217969.jpg" id="blogsy-1456704180894.4316" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="700"></a></div><p>Once again I shall apologize for my absence; it is not the fault of the job this time... but family health issues. In fact I am typing this from the hospital. </p><p>But enough of the downer stuff.</p><p>This is a manicure I wore for the last week of January. </p><p>The deep blue is <a href="http://nerdlacquer.com/Midnight-NL070.htm" target="_self" title="">Midnight</a>; from the <a href="http://nerdlacquer.com/main.sc" target="_self" title="">Nerd Lacquer</a> website:</p><blockquote><p>MIDNIGHT is what you shall wear when you've really made it -- and also maybe right now, because why not? Deep inky blue linear holo studded with royal holo sequins, little flecks of black (as is proper) and silver sparks. Mysterious, magical, and achingly gorgeous. (See what I did there, Discworld fans?)</p></blockquote><p>I don't have the words to describe how much I love this, but the formula was buttery and smooth; opaque in 2 coats. No issues with glitter placement.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M05L4CilAIA/VtOKqZVlvAI/AAAAAAAADgw/Uzc5oAdQBA8/s1422/Photo%25252020160228160218012.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M05L4CilAIA/VtOKqZVlvAI/AAAAAAAADgw/Uzc5oAdQBA8/s500/Photo%25252020160228160218012.jpg" id="blogsy-1456704180880.8381" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="700"></a></div><p>On my accent nail I applied a stunning silver called <a href="http://nerdlacquer.com/Phasma-NL065.htm" target="_self" title="">Phasma</a>. Phasma is what they call CONVERTIBLE because it comes with a tiny packet of glitter; large and small silver holo, black micro, plus black holo textured glitter. You can add it to the bottle to amp up the glitter profile or you can do what I did and sprinkle it on top. </p><p>Phasma was an easy 2 coater and applied nicely.</p><p>Now, if you are loving all these Nerd Lacquers I have been posting lately I suggest checking out the <a href="http://nerdlacquer.com/Home_c1.htm?page=all" target="_self" title="">'Thinning Out The Herd' Sale</a> to pick up some lovelies at 35% off. Also, there is a new DIY Kit; <a href="http://nerdlacquer.com/PROMETHEAN-TRIO-NLX01.htm" target="_self" title="">The PROMETHEAN TRIO</a>. I need it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2SEiwQ7pEA4/VtOKslXx0rI/AAAAAAAADg0/IYd1yXPtGeg/s1761/Photo%25252020160228160218061.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2SEiwQ7pEA4/VtOKslXx0rI/AAAAAAAADg0/IYd1yXPtGeg/s500/Photo%25252020160228160218061.jpg" id="blogsy-1456704180885.9077" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="700" alt=""></a></div><p> </p>Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-34778875475280301032016-02-16T09:00:00.000-08:002016-02-16T09:00:01.155-08:00Valentine's Day Franken!<p> I hope you all enjoyed your Valentine's Day... Or Walking Dead Day! Was that mid-season premiere awesome or what?!?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JwEls_IvFbg/VsKf7VIcXvI/AAAAAAAADgY/pblFe5Cfgks/s1296/Photo%25252020160215200456912.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JwEls_IvFbg/VsKf7VIcXvI/AAAAAAAADgY/pblFe5Cfgks/s500/Photo%25252020160215200456912.jpg" id="blogsy-1455595502744.6458" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="700" alt=""></a></div><p>As I browsed my stash to find a good polish for Valentine's, I realized I still had <a href="http://www.morenailpolish.com/2012/02/lynderella-matter-of-heart.html" target="_self" title="">Lynnderella's Matter of the Heart</a> that I picked up in a stash sale some years ago. Sadly, the formula was quite bad; very runny, sheer and the base would not suspend the glitter. So when life hands you lemons you make lemonade... And when you get a crap polish you either layer it or Franken it. I did attempt to layer; but I just could not get the glitter on my nail due to the very runny & thin base. I'm not sure if it went bad over time, if I got a bad batch, or if it had been doctored with too much thinner in the past. Who knows.</p><p>I grabbed a light pink cream that had sat untouched for at least a few years, <a href="http://" target="_self" title=""></a><a href="http://www.julep.com/reese-classic-with-a-twist.html" target="_self" title="">Julep, Reese</a>. She's a nice polish but I don't wear light pinks too often.<br></p><p>I mixed equal parts Reese & Matter of the Heart and got lucky because it ended up quite nice. Opaque in 2 easy coats and I didn't have to fish for glitter (although I did leave the bottle upside down for a bit). I like how the base is milky enough to give opacity but you can still see the glitters suspended within. </p><p>I also have a decant (mini bottle) for one lucky person who comments below; only catch is you must have a US address that I can send it to and make sure the profile or account you use to comment with has your email address so I can contact you for your mailing address. </p><p>Feel free to let me know how your Valentine's Day went too; I spent mine doing laundry, organizing my new Vanity (birthday gift from my husband) and watching The Walking Dead. I enjoyed it.</p><p> </p>Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-27584675207251959962016-02-06T09:00:00.000-08:002016-02-06T09:00:03.099-08:00Nerd Lacquer, Kylo.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For my birthday I went back to my Nerds! I wanted a deep garnet red and this newy from <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/main.sc">Nerd Lacquer </a>is a gorgeous one. I especially thought it would be great since I saw the new Star Wars movie a few weeks ago.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDNguI5UQHVD-gsf0A-7fAcN1fmbb4q2LIwMogLr2RwWUoI9iX580MsvjPkocHvZ69_V0R8Rx8zns0QHWjfGDZAINrv8Z5o_OGW18QXwVWgnl35zR2UgaXSMisWpFp4CpboIlkn6kwPA/s1600/IMG_2067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDNguI5UQHVD-gsf0A-7fAcN1fmbb4q2LIwMogLr2RwWUoI9iX580MsvjPkocHvZ69_V0R8Rx8zns0QHWjfGDZAINrv8Z5o_OGW18QXwVWgnl35zR2UgaXSMisWpFp4CpboIlkn6kwPA/s640/IMG_2067.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/Kylo-NL064.htm">Kylo</a> is a glowing blood red with violet shimmer and black micro glitter. The base is a little bit jelly like and I did need a 3rd coat on most nails to deepen the color. It was on the thick side and I had to work a little more during application but it is a stunner. I need to put this on my toes soon.<br />
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My apologies if I really don't need to explain the name but this refers to the villain in the latest Star Wars installment; Kylo Ren.<br />
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Are you a Star Wars fan? What did you think of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. I have my theories but I'm not posting spoilers.<br />
<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-45461834840977192712016-02-03T09:00:00.000-08:002016-02-03T09:00:21.225-08:00Finger Paints, Winter Chill.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXoa0KDFseEY_4cnYTxlAqzLr8dIC9VSc66rvpVJwUVEhpP6YBW6D7AYIAs4j8vmGXVNFuSALm8X-OXl_AQzmO0lhKAFEz7Gx1hCSztwxB6uIxfEnpPS713CAT8yv1XK8baNfZIdZFp8/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXoa0KDFseEY_4cnYTxlAqzLr8dIC9VSc66rvpVJwUVEhpP6YBW6D7AYIAs4j8vmGXVNFuSALm8X-OXl_AQzmO0lhKAFEz7Gx1hCSztwxB6uIxfEnpPS713CAT8yv1XK8baNfZIdZFp8/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXoa0KDFseEY_4cnYTxlAqzLr8dIC9VSc66rvpVJwUVEhpP6YBW6D7AYIAs4j8vmGXVNFuSALm8X-OXl_AQzmO0lhKAFEz7Gx1hCSztwxB6uIxfEnpPS713CAT8yv1XK8baNfZIdZFp8/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a></div>
In early January I needed something quick and easy to put on because I desperately needed to change my polish but I was low on time so I went for a texture polish; <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/fingerpaints/FPAINT1,default,pd.html#start=3">Finger Paints</a>, Winter Chill.<br />
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This particular shade is no longer available which is a shame. It's a beautiful flat off-black with pink and blue micro glitter. As you can see it applied beautifully. For some reason textures are like a BB Cream for your nails; they look amazing. It dried very quickly and wore great. Just be aware that dark textures tend to show a lot of dirt so they require additional hand washing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgbUTfdWPZDXEDdi6LPwOCNslwwrfkZ4c8rpjHHg3_OAdoRGIEIWaWAp2x-BeybCrehLqQcgqgJ0wTrb9YC2ogeYZDJKu0RJhLG46C9PNIdtPYrhWEeyJsHtxcBgOAUjmm3wcOtbSyrM/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgbUTfdWPZDXEDdi6LPwOCNslwwrfkZ4c8rpjHHg3_OAdoRGIEIWaWAp2x-BeybCrehLqQcgqgJ0wTrb9YC2ogeYZDJKu0RJhLG46C9PNIdtPYrhWEeyJsHtxcBgOAUjmm3wcOtbSyrM/s640/IMG_2070.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I actually just ordered some Pixie Dusts' from Zoya and have been looking for the new Wet n' Wild Color Icon Holiday/Winter Collection which appears to be textures as well. What do you think of texture polishes?Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-58783857374792965172016-01-30T09:00:00.000-08:002016-01-30T09:00:07.306-08:00Nerd Lacquer, That's Numberwang.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For New Years I went this a very glittery, blingy, chunky glitter from <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/main.sc">Nerd Lacquer</a> called <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/Thats-Numberwang-NL053.htm">That's Numberwang</a>. Another nod to <a href="http://www.hulu.com/watch/167682">That Mitchell and Webb Look</a>. A jelly like magenta base with tons of different glitters thrown in (aqua holo, royal blue, fuchsia, and copper)<span style="color: #757575; font-family: Open Sans, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;">. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLX14fy14QHhwWFJVL907gWESGLTYKv-3DRGD1qUJCUgDfzptQR5NFtn3ePs1AjUGqXGFWvh9ErosU8Qp-CgOEZUqMfnimYxNnlo_FML_ujaEQSFF2WhkbtDL90AIOfyRuKuednuKJ67Y/s1600/IMG_2076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLX14fy14QHhwWFJVL907gWESGLTYKv-3DRGD1qUJCUgDfzptQR5NFtn3ePs1AjUGqXGFWvh9ErosU8Qp-CgOEZUqMfnimYxNnlo_FML_ujaEQSFF2WhkbtDL90AIOfyRuKuednuKJ67Y/s640/IMG_2076.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Shade.</i></div>
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The formula on this was pretty tricky; It definitely required the dabbing method and while 2 coats worked generally... there were spots that required an additional coat. It does have that transparent jelly feel to it. It's a glitter bomb and therein perfect for New Years. Even though I didn't do anything for New Years Eve. At least my nails had a party.</div>
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How was your New Years? Do anything exciting?</div>
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Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-37345069584188767712016-01-27T09:00:00.000-08:002016-01-27T09:00:16.037-08:00Nerd Lacquer, Some Bastard Who's Presumably Responsible.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For Christmas I went with another one of Nerd Lacquers' new formulas; <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/Some-Bastard-Whos-Presumably-Responsible-NL054.htm">Some Bastard Who's Presumably Responsible</a>. The site calls this a muted dusty olive but I'm leaning more sage green. Throw in bronze and black glitter and some golden flakies. It's a little more glitter packed than The Zed Word but it still has a subtlety to it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kHjTZ2Fk4vGnX4rMrTVCHnqrRIQPiYxtXMNU2QMypFqHG1PZfqVe189te8zzsZ17plgIITvnnYnkGdubXmLUpJVMJFY_kWB9o_vELsPUSdzqVIABtiyT4latwNHxz5INLkoXTyb0iEk/s1600/IMG_2077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kHjTZ2Fk4vGnX4rMrTVCHnqrRIQPiYxtXMNU2QMypFqHG1PZfqVe189te8zzsZ17plgIITvnnYnkGdubXmLUpJVMJFY_kWB9o_vELsPUSdzqVIABtiyT4latwNHxz5INLkoXTyb0iEk/s640/IMG_2077.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Apologies for the less-than-stellar lighting; bad weather.</i></div>
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Formula was very similar to <a href="http://kellsdiynails.blogspot.com/2016/01/nerd-lacquer-zed-word.html">The Zed Word</a> and applied nicely in 2 opaque coats. The tips were a little sheer but it wasn't bothersome in real life. My favorite part of this is the golden flakies against the sage green base. A great color combo.<br />
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I had to google the reference to this polish since I had no clue what the name meant. Turns out the creator of <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/main.sc">Nerd Lacquer</a> must be especially fond of a show called <a href="http://www.hulu.com/watch/167682">That Mitchell and Webb Look </a>because she made a few different polishes that refer to it. Apparently, it's a British Sketch Comedy show.<br />
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<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-84763228769194506852016-01-23T09:00:00.000-08:002016-01-23T09:00:00.204-08:00Nerd Lacquer, The Zed Word.Hey Gang! Long time no post... It's been over a month!<br />
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The new job is coming along as can be expected but it's been a little exhausting especially since I've started the 9/80 schedule (Every other Friday off in addition to my usual Saturday & Sunday). I wasn't supposed to start this schedule until my 6 month mark but due to departmental needs I got to start two weeks ago. Yesterday was my very 1st Friday off so I managed to get some posts up for you!<br />
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Even though I didn't post much in December I still stuck with Nerd-mas and wore all <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/main.sc">Nerd Lacquer</a>!<br />
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After my last post (<a href="http://kellsdiynails.blogspot.com/2015/12/nerd-lacquer-regal-copper.html">Regal Copper</a>), I wore <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/The-Zed-Word-NL058.htm">The Zed Word</a>. This is a new profile for <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/main.sc">Nerd Lacquer</a>; it's a golden off-white shimmer with silver, red, and green micro glitter. No large chunky glitters in this baby, it's pure subtle bad-assery. Then, the fact that this is a Zombie (yes, I know, I shouldn't have typed it) themed polish only propels it further into the bad-ass zone. I freaking love Zombies! Zombie, Zombie, Zombie. I'm not afraid to <strike>say it</strike> type it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-e3kNwPZxZMWResPujNBh90Scgm8PKSzbRWb0I0rFTtljSAFSuStengq2PCu2qz5fbg1bjy3ZYnMfa1TRSCZYvD8RJxhBhVIXyOlHTWoQQ4eBsVhDpUjvdPFCnWapySnL6v3VrKZYi3A/s1600/IMG_2079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-e3kNwPZxZMWResPujNBh90Scgm8PKSzbRWb0I0rFTtljSAFSuStengq2PCu2qz5fbg1bjy3ZYnMfa1TRSCZYvD8RJxhBhVIXyOlHTWoQQ4eBsVhDpUjvdPFCnWapySnL6v3VrKZYi3A/s640/IMG_2079.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Shade. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiq4HEFH1-86MxOAJ6tL013oWe9danBjmovCWLK3rlpXI-FX3RliiLXb4TiipfLsLUJ67IODIlwL0kSnONvq_zMWKuBQsM2OrNfFeOv9Ruhw9OvD3Hy8g1F08zMivppI3e7d7tRr6UMa8/s1600/IMG_2078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiq4HEFH1-86MxOAJ6tL013oWe9danBjmovCWLK3rlpXI-FX3RliiLXb4TiipfLsLUJ67IODIlwL0kSnONvq_zMWKuBQsM2OrNfFeOv9Ruhw9OvD3Hy8g1F08zMivppI3e7d7tRr6UMa8/s640/IMG_2078.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Sunlight.</i></div>
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Formula was very nice and only required 2 coats for opacity. Of course I set my Nerds upside down for a bit to make sure I get plenty of pigment and glitter on my brush. I then give them a little shake and roll between my hands before polishing. I had no issues with application and as you can see I got a very clean line at the cuticle. The shimmer in this is so glowy and ethereal; absolutely beautiful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTq52CIPNPchWWGGkGKxgSipNWTXLoucdsjbaXKPunVwIjZOxmwpmT6M_DRzcc9jZOK4sfZET_g80Di3BE19uKGg5cdv7Q6nSQAt8Q-kjeEMnDpZE-EHzgxqdMkcjZpb39Pjs0QK0EGfI/s1600/IMG_2080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTq52CIPNPchWWGGkGKxgSipNWTXLoucdsjbaXKPunVwIjZOxmwpmT6M_DRzcc9jZOK4sfZET_g80Di3BE19uKGg5cdv7Q6nSQAt8Q-kjeEMnDpZE-EHzgxqdMkcjZpb39Pjs0QK0EGfI/s640/IMG_2080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Bonus.</i></div>
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What do you think of The Zed Word? Are you liking this new formula from Nerd Lacquer or do you prefer the chunkier glitters?</div>
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Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-30894684344926826672015-12-14T09:00:00.000-08:002015-12-14T09:00:04.603-08:00Nerd Lacquer, Regal Copper.Keeping things short & sweet with my next Nerd Lacquer in my Nerd-mas Series.<br />
Lots of photos to follow...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LT0p4cIb2-U/Vm4AjyA0xlI/AAAAAAAADd8/OazI4wp2Z3I/s1423/Photo%25252020151213153433273.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="600" id="blogsy-1450049699279.0503" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LT0p4cIb2-U/Vm4AjyA0xlI/AAAAAAAADd8/OazI4wp2Z3I/s500/Photo%25252020151213153433273.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunlight.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://nerdlacquer.com/Regal-Copper-NL056.htm" target="_self" title="">Regal Copper</a> is one of the newer Nerds; this red/orange base is packed with red, orange, copper and golden shimmer and glitter. This particular polish is packed with more glitter than the norm so application was a little trickier this time around but it still only required 2 coats for opacity. My tips look a little sheer in the photos but it wasn't noticeable in real life.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s1ELEr98ChM/Vm4Ak0iG0jI/AAAAAAAADeE/xEWiKYM3w0M/s1181/Photo%25252020151213153433326.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="600" id="blogsy-1450049699304.6494" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s1ELEr98ChM/Vm4Ak0iG0jI/AAAAAAAADeE/xEWiKYM3w0M/s500/Photo%25252020151213153433326.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunlight, Blurry to show sparkle.</td></tr>
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How amazing is this color? It glows...and look at how it lights up in the sun! It freaked out my camera.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MtPtloeqfGg/Vm4Al8lmWJI/AAAAAAAADeM/IxOVqx_Dxo0/s1636/Photo%25252020151213153433390.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="600" id="blogsy-1450049699306.8599" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MtPtloeqfGg/Vm4Al8lmWJI/AAAAAAAADeM/IxOVqx_Dxo0/s500/Photo%25252020151213153433390.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shade.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9MwvVjZYjIU/Vm4AmzsQHVI/AAAAAAAADeU/yEbaMlXeH0M/s1221/Photo%25252020151213153433436.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="600" id="blogsy-1450049699308.5303" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9MwvVjZYjIU/Vm4AmzsQHVI/AAAAAAAADeU/yEbaMlXeH0M/s500/Photo%25252020151213153433436.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bottle shot.</td></tr>
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I think this polish is named after a <a href="https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_dragon_breeds_(Temeraire)#Regal_Copper" target="_self" title="">breed of dragon, Regal Copper</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fYkbm2heZAw/Vm4AoQ2CnRI/AAAAAAAADec/A2bNV5tjhVk/s2048/Photo%25252020151213153433539.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="600" id="blogsy-1450049699317.2915" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fYkbm2heZAw/Vm4AoQ2CnRI/AAAAAAAADec/A2bNV5tjhVk/s500/Photo%25252020151213153433539.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clearest photo I could capture.</td></tr>
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I had a very difficult time getting clear photos of this polish. The very sparkly & reflective nature really got a lot of attention too; you could see this glittery explosion across the room. Tons of compliments.<br />
This is a great holiday shade too.<br />
Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-30428948149190344682015-12-05T09:00:00.000-08:002015-12-05T09:00:01.110-08:00Barielle's Naturale Essential Eye Shadow (Black Version) - Swatches, Review, & Eye Look.Barielle was kind enough to send me their <a href="http://www.barielle.com/Cream/Naturale-Essential-Eye-Shadow-black.html">Natural Essential Eye Shadow in Black</a> so I wanted to give you some swatches, a review, and an eye look I did with it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixe8Rqvg97HxwUGbjjoUj7sPTDwXp97ovAe4_btDCDrooexyxe-_QfvoCfo-mJ4uL_s7PCeiGQaN-p-RJGrZJby2OWhVtBMO5xwEBvxyGT44aF0mAJ5w-GUthuUSB67wnzDYOJcdqlkEg/s1600/IMG_2043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixe8Rqvg97HxwUGbjjoUj7sPTDwXp97ovAe4_btDCDrooexyxe-_QfvoCfo-mJ4uL_s7PCeiGQaN-p-RJGrZJby2OWhVtBMO5xwEBvxyGT44aF0mAJ5w-GUthuUSB67wnzDYOJcdqlkEg/s640/IMG_2043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is what it says on the Barielle Website:<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>DESCRIPTION</i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Get the perfect neutral eye make-up look with this gorgeous palette featuring six eye shadow shades in a variety of natural/nude hues. Give your eyes more dimension with these six must-have shades with a subtle shimmer for a perfect naturale eye. Contour, line and highlight to create just the right amount of definition for spectacular natural eyes! Includes precision brush for perfect application and blending. </i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>DETAILS</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Size:</b><span style="background-color: white;"> 6 Pans - Total Weight 0.21 Oz (6g) </span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Ingredients:</b><span style="background-color: white;"> Talc, Mica, Magnesium Stearate, Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Polybutene, Synthetic Wax, Mineral Oil, Tin Oxide, Methylparaben, Propylparaben. May Contain: Mica (CI 77019), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Ferric Ferrocyanide (CI 77510), Carmine (CI 75470).</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></i></span>
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Price: $14.99 (Shipping of $4.95)</span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngQzx8A8oZLyyipNxGckLbuGyIWvCjJbMG_VYX8igtTw_e37flfONAPRfGoA69GVrQ2Yt_XhI0OIHiS-u-P2O-S7MsE0FL3AQL4CvFKgfriRxHTeiP2z0bwXhRsdQzQMOPDUbqDBYkHE/s1600/IMG_2044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngQzx8A8oZLyyipNxGckLbuGyIWvCjJbMG_VYX8igtTw_e37flfONAPRfGoA69GVrQ2Yt_XhI0OIHiS-u-P2O-S7MsE0FL3AQL4CvFKgfriRxHTeiP2z0bwXhRsdQzQMOPDUbqDBYkHE/s640/IMG_2044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Each shadow is .035 oz.</i></div>
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<i>Price wise it breaks down to $2.50 per shadow (add .83 for Shipping)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEEd-0pFGl3Sb0ICpWvzg0g5S9wmGB-m0K6d-tXKolefQGpg4njIwKR7h64Af0HCS3L_qMqJ0vW3GBg3pj2L2t1hvNmr_eeu-GXroWWeb8_8b1byljKG9_9zzkm-wzLnJEDdybe6JSiWk/s1600/IMG_2045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEEd-0pFGl3Sb0ICpWvzg0g5S9wmGB-m0K6d-tXKolefQGpg4njIwKR7h64Af0HCS3L_qMqJ0vW3GBg3pj2L2t1hvNmr_eeu-GXroWWeb8_8b1byljKG9_9zzkm-wzLnJEDdybe6JSiWk/s640/IMG_2045.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0UjG90Pc0CIxcTH9tDaedMWeYb41Ui3veMke2ul9GGwE-vZcNf-Uk3wMpKyoc0eoJe76hLabppNUgTcRHbBqN10cuP42Ut7uQh093ASIioewVV18cMnx63P6sQjcyhcof7qcNawRszI/s1600/IMG_2047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0UjG90Pc0CIxcTH9tDaedMWeYb41Ui3veMke2ul9GGwE-vZcNf-Uk3wMpKyoc0eoJe76hLabppNUgTcRHbBqN10cuP42Ut7uQh093ASIioewVV18cMnx63P6sQjcyhcof7qcNawRszI/s640/IMG_2047.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>The 3 Shadows on the Left of the palette.</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKH9ISjrEPt-MNNIkNcinpVWBnxK-zzgE3YGJd7L0Z5iTnA-yzet21eCnA-QWrY8cE5watlKrssznhxzfGk_w1zHgYuU7A32fahLUOeMuf96mGFkBQcwRMI5MhKAUFe-1iFQ12zbIoHwQ/s1600/IMG_2046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKH9ISjrEPt-MNNIkNcinpVWBnxK-zzgE3YGJd7L0Z5iTnA-yzet21eCnA-QWrY8cE5watlKrssznhxzfGk_w1zHgYuU7A32fahLUOeMuf96mGFkBQcwRMI5MhKAUFe-1iFQ12zbIoHwQ/s640/IMG_2046.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i> The 3 Shadows on the Right of the palette.</i></div>
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<b><i>Swatches:</i></b><br />
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<i>Indirect Sunlight.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizXWABnNbS0EY5rrAUvJ8LAM5HlAYV73VVHH3nB4UpJR_ablJgExBPE5dyDPdYmD4Xj4pFwHNjbcChCzQpWm-Y5LFZJ3FRsZU3FBXR9zsXdNMmbvIUzh5z8nyEhNXuS-qbo83m5fk8fOE/s1600/IMG_2034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizXWABnNbS0EY5rrAUvJ8LAM5HlAYV73VVHH3nB4UpJR_ablJgExBPE5dyDPdYmD4Xj4pFwHNjbcChCzQpWm-Y5LFZJ3FRsZU3FBXR9zsXdNMmbvIUzh5z8nyEhNXuS-qbo83m5fk8fOE/s640/IMG_2034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Slightly less Sunlight.</i></div>
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Swatched on clean skin with no primer. From Left to Right. (No individual shade names)<br />
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These are not one swipe swatches; I did pass over them a few times otherwise they would not show up. These require some friction so the particles will breakdown to release pigment.<br />
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1) Warm-toned caramel brown, Matte - Very matte, probably the most pigmented out of the palette. Fall out does occur and it does kick up some product when you pick up product with your makeup brush. Mid-toned.<br />
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2) Pale peach, Shimmer - This doesn't seem to be very pigmented but you can build it up. It's also very close to my actual skin tone so that could be another reason it doesn't show up too well. It has a little bit of very fine glitter in it as well. I used it wet and I found it intensified the color and shimmer.<br />
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3) Cool-toned greige, Shimmer - This is a very complex shade and I love that about it but sadly the pigmentation isn't there. It takes a lot of building and buffing to get the magic to come out and play. There is a hit of an olive tone in there along with a gold sheen. Mid-toned.<br />
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4) Neutral Icy Vanilla, Shimmer - This icy shimmer looks really pretty when built up and buffed in but it's not very pigmented either.<br />
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5) Warm-toned copper, Shimmer w/ Glitter - Quite possibly the least pigmented of the bunch (it could be a tie between this and the Pale peach) so after trying to apply it to my eye I finally used e.l.f.'s Mist & Set to wet my sponge and applied it wet. That worked much better. There's also a lot of glitter in this one.<br />
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6) Neutral mushroom brown, Shimmer/Satin - This one is lower on the shimmer chart; it really looks like more of a satin finish to me but in the pan you can see shimmer. I bet you could even use this as a crease shade but you will have to build it up. If you layer the Pale peach over it you get a very soft duo-chrome effect. Mid-toned.<br />
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You can easily use these wet to amp up the pigmentation and finish.<br />
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<b><i>Eye Look:</i></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCquV7hQ6BqL5t-d5wSI-5fBC1-mNxiQDm7myyHmbkCAkxliGu9OloLp7evBz7wG_gahDdxRl_NBtXHtodN0KpOJghBTaUEG9xaK3gYNYmrGHlDhh7m96SK_Z8u00Zw-K_zD_AVsQQmwo/s1600/IMG_8932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCquV7hQ6BqL5t-d5wSI-5fBC1-mNxiQDm7myyHmbkCAkxliGu9OloLp7evBz7wG_gahDdxRl_NBtXHtodN0KpOJghBTaUEG9xaK3gYNYmrGHlDhh7m96SK_Z8u00Zw-K_zD_AVsQQmwo/s640/IMG_8932.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Please excuse the blemish in my eyebrow.</i></div>
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Crease: #1 - I applied the matte shade in my crease using a fluffy shadow brush (<a href="http://www.coastalscents.com/pro-blending-fluff.html">Coastal Scents BR-250)</a><br />
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Lid: #5 - I applied the shimmery copper shade wet (I used <a href="http://www.elfcosmetics.com/p/makeup-mist-and-set">e.l.f.'s Mist & Set</a>) using the sponge applicator that came with the palette. I had tried to apply it dry using a brush (<a href="http://www.sedonalace.com/Cosmetic-Brushes/66/Universal-Blender-EB-09.aspx">Sedona Lace EB 09</a>) but it wasn't really picking up the product.<br />
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Inner Corner: #2 - I applied the pale peach shimmer wet as well using a mini multipurpose brush (<a href="http://www.coastalscents.com/classic-mini-multipurpose-synthetic.html">Coastal Scents BR-C-S46</a>). I also smudged a little on my lower inner lash line as well. It helps to brighten up my deep-set eyes.<br />
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For my brow bone I used the lightest shade in the <a href="http://www.coastalscents.com/revealed-3.html">Coastal Scents Revealed 3</a> Palette since this one doesn't have a good light matte shade for the brow bone. I blended the edge of my crease shade into my brow bone shade using my <a href="http://www.sedonalace.com/Cosmetic-Brushes/66/Universal-Blender-EB-09.aspx">Sedona Lace EB 09</a> brush; this brush is great for lightly diffusing harsh edges and lines.<br />
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My lashes got a light application of <a href="http://www.wetnwildbeauty.com/eyes/mascara/megalength-mascara.html">Wet n Wild's MegaLength Mascara</a> in Black.<br />
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<b><i>Review:</i></b><br />
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This eye shadow palette in my opinion is a 5 out of 10; it's definitely not the worst but it's also no where near the best. For reference my worst palette (in my opinion) is <a href="http://www.elfcosmetics.com/p/baked-eyeshadow-palette">e.l.f.'s Baked Eyeshadow Palette in NYC</a> (However, the individual <a href="http://www.elfcosmetics.com/p/baked-eyeshadow">Baked Shadows</a> are pretty awesome). My best palette is Urban Decay's Vice 3; I also love the formulation and color payoff of the <a href="http://www.prestigecosmetics.com/total-intensity/eyeshadows.html?p=2">Prestige Total Intensity Eyeshadows</a>, <a href="https://colourpop.com/product-category/shadows-pigments/shadowsandpigments/">ColourPop's Super Shock Shadows</a>, and <a href="http://milanicosmetics.com/Bella-Eyes-Gel-Powder-Eyeshadow.html">Milani's Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadows</a>.<br />
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It all depends on how you wear your eye makeup and what kind of effect and/or finish you are looking for. Personally I like to be able to pack on my shimmer shades for high impact and you definitely can't do that with this palette. Unless of course you use them wet.<br />
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There is only one matte shade and no brow bone highlight shade. I would swap out the Cool-toned greige shimmer shade and put in a a matte off-white shade for the brow bone. I say that because this entire palette is warm toned or neutral except for that one cool toned shadow; it doesn't really fit in here. I don't think too many of the shades would work with that one color. Especially since most individuals really want to use a matte color in the crease. Not everyone is married to that rule but I have to admit that out of this entire palette the matte shade is the best one for blending in the crease because the others don't have that much pigmentation. It's the best one for contouring the eye.<br />
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I think this palette would be ideal for someone who definitely wants that <i>Natural</i> look. These are soft and don't overwhelm the eye with too much pigmentation. No one will look at you funny and comment on your eye makeup (like 'Wow, who punched you in the eye?' or 'So, you like makeup, huh?'. Yes, it has happened to me, especially in October.). If you have problems blending or applying eye shadow precisely this will be very forgiving. It's also an ideal size for traveling or even if you want to keep your morning makeup routine short & sweet. <br />
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Another concern that came to me was the fact that mature women tend to avoid shimmery shades because they feel it shows the unflattering texture of their eyes (their words, not mine). This palette is 83% shimmers with only one matte. Sure, the very last one isn't all that shimmery so you could count that as 2 non-shimmers if you want. Either way, this might not be something you would want to get if you don't care for shimmery shades.<br />
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There's no doubt that everyone and their mother has been jumping on the <i>Nude</i> and <i>Natural</i> bandwagon since Urban Decay was so successful with their Naked palettes and this could very well be another 'dupe' for some of those shades but I don't own any of them to compare. I know there were very few matte shades in those palettes as well.<br />
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I mentioned above that this palette is a good size for traveling as well as if you are trying to keep your eye shadow selection pared down; sometimes having too many options can cause you to take a little longer in deciding which shades to use. The packaging is lightweight cardboard with a flimsy plastic window on the front. Not the best quality but definitely functional; lightweight just makes it even better for travel. A magnetized closure works well to keep it closed. It comes with a double ended sponge applicator which I used to apply the copper shade (wet) all over my eyelid. It worked better than a brush. Most sponge applicators are very flimsy and fall apart but this one is sturdy and has a firmness to it; kind of feels like <a href="http://www.beautyblender.com/shop/category/holiday/beautyblender-pro-single.html">Beauty Blender</a> material.<br />
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There is also a <a href="http://www.barielle.com/Cream/Naturale-Essential-Eye-Shadow-Beige.html">Beige Version</a> that has a burgundy shade which looks very pretty; I love shades like that because they flatter my hazel eyes.<br />
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I hope this post was helpful any gave some insight into the palette. Is this something you would be interested in buying or do you prefer more pigmented shadows? Tell me your favorite (and least favorite) eyeshadows in the comments!<br />
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<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-43491072804052706292015-12-03T09:00:00.000-08:002015-12-04T17:43:55.183-08:00NERD Lacquer, The 12th Pint. (Happy Belated Thanksgiving!) Hey Gang! So I know I'm a week behind... But I've been working on paperwork for my new job, cooked for Thanksgiving, and then yesterday there was terrible news of the Mass Shooting in San Bernardino. Basically, it's just dumb luck that I even post at all.<br />
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I had this genius idea to do NERD-mas for all of December. Basically, I love <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/">Nerd Lacquer</a> but for the longest time it was touch & go in order to get your hands on it. So, I have accumulated a huge Nerd Army and now that <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/">Nerd Lacquer</a> seems to be back somewhat consistently I thought I would try and blow a few out. This means I will only be wearing Nerd Lacquer all of December. Oh, and it will be ones you can still buy!<br />
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There is a little bit of a snag; I start my new job on the 14th and this may create a bit of an absence of posts. It all depends how stressful the job is and I won't know that until I am actually in the thick of it so bear with me. I want to post here I really do but life really gets in the way!!!<br />
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For Thanksgiving I wore <a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/The-12th-Pint-NL060.htm">The 12th Pint</a>; this bright yellow gold polish has various sizes gold glitters thoughout along with a sprinkling of iridescent and tiny blue glitters. You almost don't even detect the blue glitters. This is actually quite opaque in 2 easy coats. As per usual, application was quite nice. I just like to set my Nerd's upside down for 5 - 10 minutes before polishing and there you have it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXmsx6hCuCVQ1Zt9vguwQVINhBxU18RatP3ZkOo3LKtuyDdsc6Ofw_Jj8xbl_TsklR_1qCJDWen-7ROzjXda3h5eVJQnNbX0p23wJ7wZSUS2lF0wo3HLFkUkmbMG8uds-W_2ZqIeniGU/s1600/IMG_2019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXmsx6hCuCVQ1Zt9vguwQVINhBxU18RatP3ZkOo3LKtuyDdsc6Ofw_Jj8xbl_TsklR_1qCJDWen-7ROzjXda3h5eVJQnNbX0p23wJ7wZSUS2lF0wo3HLFkUkmbMG8uds-W_2ZqIeniGU/s640/IMG_2019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I applied one coat of <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/nail-gel/SBS-507020,default,pd.html">Gelous</a> and one coat of <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/top-coat/SBS-507050,default,pd.html#q=in+a+hurry&start=1">In A Hurry</a>. My base coat is the <a href="http://www.ikatehouse.com/la-girl-marine-base-coat.html">L.A. Girl Marine Base Coat</a>.<br />
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<strike>I have absolutely no idea what the name of this polish in in reference to; if you know let me know in the comments.</strike><br />
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Update 12/4/15: I figured out the reference to the name of this polish; It's <a href="http://Gary King (Simon Pegg), a middle-aged alcoholic, tracks down his estranged schoolfriends and persuades them to complete "the Golden Mile", a pub crawl encompassing the 12 pubs of their hometown of Newton Haven. The group attempted the crawl as teenagers, but failed to reach the final pub, The World's End.">The World's End</a>. From Wikipedia:<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525;">Gary King (</span>Simon Pegg<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525;">), a middle-aged </span>alcoholic<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525;">, tracks down his estranged schoolfriends and persuades them to complete "the Golden Mile", a </span>pub crawl<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525;"> encompassing the 12 pubs of their hometown of Newton Haven. The group attempted the crawl as teenagers, but failed to reach the final pub, The World's End.</span></i></span><br />
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I hope you all had a very nice Thanksgiving; I sure did!<br />
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<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-85495106847819019582015-11-25T09:00:00.000-08:002015-11-25T09:00:00.077-08:00In Memoriam: Angela of Older Ladies Like Color too!A few weeks back I shared with you an update on my life; I was experiencing a lot of Ups & Downs. One of which was a fellow polish fanatic who was struggling with cancer. I'm very saddened to report that she passed away shortly after my update on November 13th.<br />
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It is always so surreal when someone passes away; even though Angela & I didn't know each other too intimately I still got used to seeing her Facebook posts and seeing her comments on blogs we both followed. I feel like I have a hole where she was in my life (if only my social media and blog life).<br />
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Angela and I are also very like-minded so we didn't ever take issue with each others' personal posts on Facebook. Or if we did we knew how to be adults about it and move on. Angela's favorite color is purple so I thought I would compile some of my favorite purple manis in her memory.<br />
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<a href="http://kellsdiynails.blogspot.com/2014/10/china-glaze-all-aboard-and-picture.html">China Glaze, All Aboard & Picture Polish, Lizzie. </a></div>
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<a href="http://kellsdiynails.blogspot.com/2015/05/salon-perfect-razzle-dazzle-another.html">Salon Perfect, Razzle Dazzle. </a></div>
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<a href="http://kellsdiynails.blogspot.com/2015/10/elvira-mistress-of-dark-featuring-glam.html">Glam Polish, Elvira & Dollish Polish, Zombies Only Like You For Your Brain. </a></div>
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<a href="http://kellsdiynails.blogspot.com/2014/07/the-lady-varnishes-among-clouds.html">The Lady Varnishes, Among the Clouds.</a></div>
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Angela's Obituary can be seen <a href="http://www.funeralhome.com/memsol.cgi?user_id=1704547#.VkeoXVLFMp4.facebook">here</a>. It's obvious she has a lot of loved ones, family, and friends who love her very much. They will all be in my thoughts and prayers; it is always so tough to lose people, especially truly good people like Angela. You often find yourself asking "why them?" and wondering what they did to deserve this. The fact is cancer sucks. I hate it with every ounce of my being. Cancer doesn't care who you are or what you did or didn't do; it just wants to destroy. I hope that one day we have a cure for cancer.<br />
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Rest In Peace, Angela. Perhaps you can send me some nail inspiration from above; that would be lovely.<br />
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Angela's Blog can be found <a href="http://olderladieslikecolortoo.blogspot.com/">here</a> if you want to check out her manis or leave a comment for her; hopefully she can still read blogs up there!<br />
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<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-62966141937429256062015-11-21T09:00:00.000-08:002015-11-21T09:00:00.133-08:00NARS, Algonquin (Holiday 2014). Hey Gang!<br />
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Last Monday was my little dog, Nikki's, 8th Birthday. To mark the occasion (along with a <a href="http://wag.com/">Wag.com</a> Haul) I had the perfect nail polish.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/-KRormGFYf/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">My #sweet #BirthdayGirl! #NikkiTheNailNut #Maltepoo #Maltese #Poodle #PoodleMix #dog #dogs #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #HappyBirthday #TheBig8 #EightYearsYoung</a></div>
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A photo posted by Kelly Tomlinson (@blkvelveteen20) on <time datetime="2015-11-16T21:19:58+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 16, 2015 at 1:19pm PST</time></div>
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<i>Sunlight.</i></div>
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<u>Algonquin</u> is an amazingly unique color that was released for last years' holiday season. This dusty purple loaded with iridescent micro shimmer and flakies also has a very unique 'lit from within' glow to it. It is absolutely ethereal. The formula was a little on the thick side but not difficult to apply. I applied 2 medium coats to achieve opacity. If you prefer thinner coats you will probably need 3 coats. Dry time was average and I added a top coat of In A Hurry. This particular polish was LE and is no longer available through most retailers but you can still <a href="http://www.amazon.com/NARS-Polish-Laced-Holiday-Algonquin/dp/B00TKS60SY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1448082067&sr=8-1&keywords=nars+algonquin">get it on Amazon</a>; if you like it, I suggest grabbing it while you can because I'm sure it will disappear soon. This price is also a killer deal; I spent much more when I bought it last year.<br />
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<i>Shade.</i></div>
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I chose this particular polish because it made me think of Elvira's Familiar, Algonquin (Aka Gonk). Nikki is very much my shadow and is always by my side. We work our own kind of magic together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaU7oLa1WOjCH7lKq56jxgYerHLDdkFIwYHbYQxAzIUCEfoQkTE6rHBW18Iah_YoIXMMEXnOXPbdqcqKBy9_Txyh7tE4IzBf72aOhCKPZPUc9JbtOIECxZj9iHNb9gYp_Ex3uDGQYTa4o/s1600/IMG_1963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaU7oLa1WOjCH7lKq56jxgYerHLDdkFIwYHbYQxAzIUCEfoQkTE6rHBW18Iah_YoIXMMEXnOXPbdqcqKBy9_Txyh7tE4IzBf72aOhCKPZPUc9JbtOIECxZj9iHNb9gYp_Ex3uDGQYTa4o/s640/IMG_1963.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I decided to switch things up a bit and tried a different base coat; L.A. Girl, Whitener & Smoother. Now, I'm actually not so sure this was meant to be used as a base coat but I gave it a whirl anyways. It held up pretty decent for about 3 days. Then, I got two big sections of nail polish that peeled right off. So, I grabbed an orange wood stick and lo-and-behold I found this to act as a peel-off base. I was able to easily pull up the edge and peel the majority of the polish off without damaging my natural nail. So, if you are looking for an inexpensive peel-off base I recommend giving this a shot. It also applies really nicely like a gel polish.<br />
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Happy Birthday, Sweet Nikki!</div>
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Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-51684736874393214692015-11-19T09:00:00.000-08:002015-11-19T09:00:01.313-08:00Review & Swatches: e.l.f. Lip Kiss Balm Have you noticed e.l.f. has been releasing lots of new products lately?<br />
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One of which caught my attention because I'm always drooling over people with their Maybelline Baby Lips. I wanted something in the cruelty free product world like that! Now, (Thanks to e.l.f.) we have it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKBtLHi-JomaVqk8fKQb6Fii9Ps5ckC-_qvscUTzPmB7PfAUZEiDhimH1AQ05E4Hn5akw9NfySp3atI3iJdStvniKoIFSWGfGMR5_vSlxQV7nHGjZvQEz5a621Bkp6Enm7vJTtCj-9NM/s1600/IMG_1993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqKBtLHi-JomaVqk8fKQb6Fii9Ps5ckC-_qvscUTzPmB7PfAUZEiDhimH1AQ05E4Hn5akw9NfySp3atI3iJdStvniKoIFSWGfGMR5_vSlxQV7nHGjZvQEz5a621Bkp6Enm7vJTtCj-9NM/s640/IMG_1993.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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In all honesty I really don't know how these stack up to the Maybelline Baby Lips since I won't buy anything from Maybelline but I think these are very similar, if not a little better.<br />
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I have 4 shades of the <a href="http://www.elfcosmetics.com/p/lip-kiss-balm">Lip Kiss Balms</a> to show you today; these are the initial 4 shades they released. a few weeks later they released even more shades but I don't need that many tinted lip balms so I will just stick with these 4. Heck. I probably won't ever get through these 4.<br />
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I like the slick feel of the packaging and the translucent cap feels fun and translates the transparent, sheer effect of the <a href="http://www.elfcosmetics.com/p/lip-kiss-balm">Lip Kiss Balm</a>. It is plastic so it's probably not the most durable packaging but lip balm typically comes in an inexpensive plastic tube anyway so I see no issue since it is also a very inexpensive product. That's kind of the makeup of lip balm; it tends to get lost so you end up buying another to replace it. No big deal.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU8Vs7b-QngD_eyVnLwD_w2HjhBh3ZkrFiqYFrJh2RHiuJSrWkjAWNpCv8SGdFrjh25ulbSVoDxRnDn7g2GVLz7wjW7-f1-59HnJhbAzJTQbvIPn0OYxWwICs4y8u48fZn0TjOK2ST1u4/s1600/IMG_1991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU8Vs7b-QngD_eyVnLwD_w2HjhBh3ZkrFiqYFrJh2RHiuJSrWkjAWNpCv8SGdFrjh25ulbSVoDxRnDn7g2GVLz7wjW7-f1-59HnJhbAzJTQbvIPn0OYxWwICs4y8u48fZn0TjOK2ST1u4/s640/IMG_1991.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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One thing I am not crazy about is the fact that all of the product does not roll down into the tube. It's just asking to get smashed when I replace the cap. Quite a few other lip products do this as well. I get that they want you to be able to see the product in the packaging but it's really a pain for me in everyday life. I'm a klutz; I make a mess of stuff like this.<br />
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However, if you are ever worried about the product rolling up and getting smushed while the cap is closed, there is no need to fret with this product because as you roll the product down it clicks into it's resting position. So that is a nice added feature here. The clear transparent lid does snap on nicely so I'm not concerned that the cap will come off in my bag. The silver e.l.f. logo will probably rub off eventually. There are tiny silver labels on the bottom to let you know the name of the color.<br />
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Now, for the actual product inside the tube; you get .15oz. of product. These are a pretty good texture; better than the Wet n Wild Balms and some other waxy indie brands I have tried. These are not as thick as The Body Shop's Balms. They are closest in texture to Burt's Bees Balms, which are my favorite. It's thick enough to stay on your lips and not dissipate quickly but thin enough to feel nice and emollient. You can continue to rub your lips together and not loose the product. They are mint scented but I don't find it to be too strong or irritating. I get a little tingle when I first apply these for the day. These do not have a flavor; I don't notice any kind of taste. They do not feel sticky or tacky on my lips. They do require a second or two to warm up on your lips before you can really glide them over your lips.<br />
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The Shades: Flirty & Perky Pink, Bare Kiss, XO Red, and Berry Sweet.</div>
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All swatches are 3 swipes on bare skin (CoverFX N20).<br />
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<u>Flirty & Perky Pink:</u> I really wish the names of these were more like Pink Kiss, Red Kiss, Berry Kiss, etc. I feel like it would have been simpler and would fit with the product name. The name of this particular shade is kind of silly. This is a bright, cool toned pink. I was hoping that it would have some warm ties once applied but it doesn't. This is like a Nikki Minaj pink. Gals who love those colors will like this. I will probably use this one the least. The swatch on my arm looks a little light but when applied to my lips it was pretty darn pigmented it just took a few extra swipes to get it there. It did tend to settle into lip lines.<br />
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<u>Bare Kiss:</u> When I first got these I kind of thought this would be my favorite of the bunch. It looks like a nice, muted nude in the tube. But when applied to the lips it tends to lean a little peachy orange & warm. It's not terrible, it will still get plenty of use from me, but there are gals who are not fans of peachy orange tones. So, keep that in mind. Out of the 4 this is the least pigmented but it still leaves you with a tint. For me it will be very versatile because I tend of wear lots of corals anyways. It did tend to settle into lip lines.<br />
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<u>XO Red:</u> I'm not usually one to love reds but this is my favorite of the bunch. This is a bright coral red; more orangey red coral than pinky/peach. It is very pigmented as well; you still get the sheer jelly feel but it really packs a vibrant tint. It did settle into lips lines a little but because the pigmentation is good you don't really notice it unless you are looking for it. I think this is super cute and fun. A great way to wear a red lip without having to line & fill in your lips for that perfected look. This probably could migrate into lip lines and feather some so put down a little clear lip liner first.<br />
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<u>Berry Sweet:</u> My 2nd runner up; this is a nice berry toned tint. This isn't quite as pigmented as XO Red but it still leaves you with a good amount of color. It's deeper than the other 3 and it has a mix of red & brown tones. Berry shades don't always work for me and I'm still on the fence as to whether or not I like this one me but it's different so I've been leaning towards it. Perfect for Fall & Winter. It does not appear to settle into lip lines. (My swatch above looks patchy but I didn't have an issue with this applying patchy on my lips)<br />
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For those of you interested to know ingredients, product claims, and shelf life.</div>
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These tend to wear like most tinted balms do; they won't last all day but they do leave a trace of color behind on your lips so you still have some color hanging around. These are meant to be applied throughout the day; I think Flirty & Perky Pink & Bare Kiss would be easy to apply without a mirror. However, you might want to look in the mirror before applying XO Red & Berry Sweet or you could end up looking like the Joker. But just a quick application in a mirror would be easy to do as well. I recently picked <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/271999584817">this one</a> up on eBay and it works great; it's large enough that I can really see what I'm doing but not too large so it is easily grabbed out of my bag. It even has LED lights; but I don't use them because they are really bright and practically blind me.<br />
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I was worried that these would not actually moisturize or soften my lips because I had tried a Wet n Wild Balm in the past that actually caused my lips to chap more. However, I am happy to report that these do in fact moisturize and soften lips. I've been wearing these for 3 days now and they are keeping my lips comfortable and soft.<br />
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I will be sending the Flirty & Perky Pink to a friend who likes pinks. The other 3 will reside with me; although, I already know that at some point I will want to check out the other shades in the lineup. What do you think of these Lip Kiss Balms? Interested in trying one (or 6)? What is your favorite tinted lip balm?<br />
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<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-37912851216839516452015-11-14T09:00:00.000-08:002015-11-14T09:00:00.493-08:00Nerd Lacquer, Viper. (Veteran's Day)As you read this I will be on my way to Panamint Valley for our annual Veteran's Day Camping Weekend. How bizarre was it that Veteran's Day was observed on a Wednesday?!? Threw off our camping weekend and it will now be a short one.<br />
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To celebrate Veteran's Day I had to find a polish that encompassed the bad-assery and awesome-ness of our Vets; so I went with a Nerd!<br />
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<i>*** Heads Up, this one's gonna be picture heavy ***</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.nerdlacquer.com/Viper-NL050.htm">Nerd Lacquer, Viper</a> is a dirty olive green that has been kicked into high gear by adding golden metallic sheen, bronze and gunmetal glitter, round gold sequins, and a bit of umber metallic shimmer. The little bronze glitters really jump out and look like a burnt orange. The gold sequins look like gold medallions buried in black gold sand. Such epic EPICNESS! Is that a word??? Who cares!!!<br />
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The formula is also pretty darn amazing; it applied very easily with a great brush that fanned out over the nail beautifully. 2 coats, gang, 2 freaking coats. My tips look a little sheer but in real life it wasn't even discernible. Nerds are one of my favorite glitters because they apply so well and the glitter combos are so unique.<br />
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Apparently, this polish is named after <a href="http://en.battlestarwiki.org/wiki/Viper_%28TRS%29">Battlestar Galactica</a> which I know absolutely nothing about. But, I do know a kick-ass olive green polish when I see one and this is definitely KICK-ASS.<br />
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I switched up my base coat with this to help it survive camping; I went with a base coat of <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/nail-gel/SBS-507020,default,pd.html">Gelous</a> and also top coated the first time with <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/nail-gel/SBS-507020,default,pd.html">Gelous</a> as well. I added a final top coat of <a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/top-coat/SBS-507050,default,pd.html#q=In%2Ba%2Bhurry&start=1">In A Hurry.</a><br />
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<i>(I told you there were gonna be a lot of photos)</i><br />
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Do you have any plans for the weekend?<br />
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<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-11854747688502552242015-11-10T09:00:00.000-08:002015-11-10T09:00:21.665-08:00Dollish Polish, Look At The Flowers Lizzie (...and a life update/reflection).Sooooo... This post seems to be a tad late; Hah! Thus is LIFE!<br />
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First, the polish details: <a href="http://dollishpolish.bigcartel.com/product/ultimate-fandom-look-at-the-flowers-lizzie">Look At The Flowers Lizzie</a> is a murky green jelly packed with pink, white, pale yellow, green, pale pink, black, and white various glitters. It's a unique and adorable mix. Since it is packed with glitters you will want to keep it upside down so you can get plenty of glitter on your brush. I would also recommend applying with the dot or blob method; let a bead of polish drop onto your nail bed, wipe the brush off on the neck of the bottle, and then smooth the bead of polish over your nail. This will give you a nice, even application with a nice distribution of glitter. This polish looks like it will be sheer but 2 coats done as mentioned above gave me really good coverage. I don't see any visible nail line.<br />
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On my middle nail I decided to try one of the 'Walking Dead' decals from <a href="http://grngoddesscreations.storenvy.com/products/13900344-zombie-show-water-slide-nail-decals-transparent">Green Goddess Creations</a>. I applied 2 coats of <a href="http://www.julep.com/nadia-it-girl.html">Julep, Nadia</a>. This is a very pretty pale golden yellow shimmer. Once it was totally dry I applied a 'Walker' to my middle nail. Once again I am not impressed with these decals. For some reason they like to curl and bubble up on me. I applied a coat of In A Hurry and it reacted pretty badly with the polish and/or decal because the decal kept trying to peel up and I had horrible shrinkage.<br />
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I also used a coat of In A Hurry on top of all my other nails with no issue. Glitter polishes can be a bother to apply since you have to take some extra steps but I really like the way LATFL looks. It's fun and quirky, a lot like Lizzie.<br />
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So many things (ups & downs) have taken place in the last 2 weeks; I have much to share in addition to this awesome Walking Dead mani.<br />
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- UP: I was offered a position with the county I live in. One with good pay, health benefits, and retirement. I am still in disbelief.<br />
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- DOWN: I resigned from my job with the Solar Company; I'm not so bummed to have left the company because I wasn't exactly thrilled with the job. BUT (thats a big but) I did have to say goodbye to a co-worker whom I had bonded with almost immediately. One of those awesome co-workers who makes you laugh and keeps you from going postal. Seriously, it sucked so bad saying goodbye to him. I hope we keep in touch.<br />
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- UP: While I wait for my Background Check and Physical to clear with the county I will have some down time; a mini vacation of sorts. I just hope it isn't too long; I need money coming in.<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/9d2_G7mFTF/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Always be yourself; unless you can be #Elvira. @elvira.mistressofthedark #ElviraMistressOfTheDark #ThisIsHalloween #Halloween #ThisIsHowIDoOctober #KELLvira</a></div>
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A photo posted by Kelly Tomlinson (@blkvelveteen20) on <time datetime="2015-10-30T15:20:31+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 30, 2015 at 8:20am PDT</time></div>
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- DOWN: Halloween came and went way too quick. While I did partake in quite a bit of Halloween fun this year I always wish I had MORE!<br />
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- UP: My polish pal over at <a href="http://addictedtoopi-yum.blogspot.com/">Addicted to OPI-yum</a> has overcome Cancer and is doing Oh-So-Well. It's amazing!<br />
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- DOWN: Another polish pal is not doing so well with her Cancer and has gone into hospice care. Cancer Sucks!<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/92DeBdmFan/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Love the #FallColors in #OakGlen. #AppleOrchards #LosRiosRanchos #Rileys #Trees #Leaves #pumpkins #PumpkinPatch</a></div>
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A photo posted by Kelly Tomlinson (@blkvelveteen20) on <time datetime="2015-11-09T00:51:22+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Nov 8, 2015 at 4:51pm PST</time></div>
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- UP: The hubby and I went to <a href="http://www.oakglen.net/">Oak Glen</a> over the weekend and we got to enjoy all the fall colors and tasty treats.<br />
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Ok, so those of you who watch The Walking Dead; what did you think of this episode (The Grove)? My hubby and I have it ranked as one of our top episodes.<br />
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Those of you who are not fans of the show; What's new with you? Did you enjoy your Halloween?<br />
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Hope you are all doing well!Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-19327753992225224522015-10-27T09:00:00.001-07:002015-10-27T09:00:06.434-07:00Dollish Polish, Son Of A Dick.<p> Did you think we would get through October without a Walking Dead themed polish?</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N3eomwBGa18/Vi7qtI3RatI/AAAAAAAADU8/2CgesQi0mXc/s1262/Photo%25252020151026200833873.jpg" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N3eomwBGa18/Vi7qtI3RatI/AAAAAAAADU8/2CgesQi0mXc/s500/Photo%25252020151026200833873.jpg" id="blogsy-1445915327949.3857" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="600" height="600"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunlight. This looks like more of a scattered holo but it was linear too.</td></tr></tbody></table><p><u> Son Of A Dick</u> is a deep chocolate brown holo. I used 2 coats for opacity. I love the way it looks but sadly the formula was a bit rough for me; it was thick & goopy. I would shake it up during use to keep it as workable as possible. I thought about adding thinner but I thought I remembered seeing something about not using polish thinner in this particular polish.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2w8knjGyglA/Vi7quC4GzGI/AAAAAAAADVE/LGFPLr_b5ig/s1154/Photo%25252020151026200833924.jpg" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2w8knjGyglA/Vi7quC4GzGI/AAAAAAAADVE/LGFPLr_b5ig/s500/Photo%25252020151026200833924.jpg" id="blogsy-1445915327979.392" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="600" height="600"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indoors; Fluorescent light.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>On my ring nail I applied one coat of <u>Dollish Polish, The Curse Of Michael Myers</u> which is a glitter bomb consisting of various shapes of orange glitter and a sprinkling of some red and yellow. This was one easy coat. This is a very 'Halloween' glitter. I love it. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-upm4KPT_BFU/Vi7qvZF9s_I/AAAAAAAADVM/X40nAmQ0HcA/s1461/Photo%25252020151026200833965.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-upm4KPT_BFU/Vi7qvZF9s_I/AAAAAAAADVM/X40nAmQ0HcA/s500/Photo%25252020151026200833965.jpg" id="blogsy-1445915327969.816" class="aligncenter" width="600" height="616" alt=""></a></div><p>Sadly, neither of these are available. Son Of A Dick was a special LE release for the Season 6 premiere and the other was part of last years' Halloween Collection. Keep an eye on the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DollishPolish?section_id=15971728&ref=shopsection_leftnav_3&ga_search_query=Orange" target="_self" title="">Dollish Polish etsy page</a>; sometimes past polishes make an appearance.</p><p>All nails got a coat of In A Hurry and I used the L.A. Girls Marine Base Coat. I am still digging this base coat but this particular mani didn't hold up very well. I'm thinking it was due to the thicker coats I had to use due to the thickness of the formula.</p><p> I hope you like these because I have one more Walking Dead polish for you...</p><p> </p>Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-3874827821495220792015-10-24T09:00:00.000-07:002015-10-24T09:00:03.877-07:00Elvira, Mistress of the Dark - Featuring Glam Polish, Dollish Polish, and Darling Girl Cosmetics.<br />
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<i>Shade</i></div>
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Last Saturday I went to <a href="https://www.knotts.com/scaryfarm/">Knott's Scary Farm</a> to see Elvria and her show, <a href="https://www.knotts.com/scaryfarm/ride/The-Hanging/cat/Shows">Elvira's Asylum</a>. I'm a HUGE Elvira fan so my main goal was to meet her in her Boo-tique but I quickly found out it wasn't all that simple.<br />
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In order to get a ticket to the Meet & Greet you had to be there when the park initally opened and bought $50 worth of Elvira merch. I have never been to Knott's before so I had no idea that it would take an hour and a half just to park. Needless to say we didn't get inside the park until 10 minutes before 9pm. Luckily, we got into the first show just in time.<br />
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Incase you're wondering about the show it consists of Elvira's usual shenanigans (I mean that in a good way too). You will get a lot of her banter, wit, and jokes along with dancing skits with her team of dancers and an arial trapeze artist. She even does a little rap number. It's a pretty short show but I'm a fan of B Level Entertainment and raunchy humor so I ate it up and so did my husband (he thoroughly enjoyed getting to say Boobs, Jugs, and Hooters aloud).<br />
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After the show we headed over to Elvira's Boo-tique. I asked a staff member and found out that my chances of getting to meet Elvira were slim to none. But, I'm no quitter; I got in the line anyway and was just listening to what was going on around me and chatting with my hubby. That's when luck struck and I met the ladies in line behind me. Turns out one of them was only there to take photos but photos were not allowed inside. So, they offered me a ticket! Now, before you feel bad for my husband... He likes Elvira, a lot, but no where near the lever of fanatic I am. So, he didn't mind. He watched me from outside and made fun of me afterwards because I was literally so animated and just talking her ear off!<br />
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I kept thanking Regina (the gal who blessed me with the ticket) the whole time we were in line to meet Elvira. I was grining ear-to-ear. I even had a gift to give Elvira; one of my favorite indie cosmetic lines, Darling Girl Cosmetics, released a Halloween Collection this year that included a special Liquid Lipstick called Mistress of Darkness. I bought 2; one for me and one for Elvira so I was beyond ecstatic that I was able to give it to her. She is always so sweet, kind, and down to earth and she was totally jazzed about the lipstick. Made my night!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsnQ2dKcevGbI1U8Qf5TyxI80aQFYRRjEtVj0go__onLj5pcKbqMR1QlqgtpILLlUiUNyldHJo48aPVj8pm6SUAyHLqBY5OH93SuyocyuUnNV1G1SAz8bmcTM3noxxpXWjGJ2zvMyqwbI/s1600/IMG_1955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsnQ2dKcevGbI1U8Qf5TyxI80aQFYRRjEtVj0go__onLj5pcKbqMR1QlqgtpILLlUiUNyldHJo48aPVj8pm6SUAyHLqBY5OH93SuyocyuUnNV1G1SAz8bmcTM3noxxpXWjGJ2zvMyqwbI/s640/IMG_1955.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.darlinggirlcosmetics.com/">Darling Girl Cosmetics</a>, <a href="http://www.darlinggirlcosmetics.com/item_1174/Mistress-of-Darkness--Queens-of-Horror.htm">Mistress of Darkness Pucker Paint</a></i></div>
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I even wore it for the evening; I lined and filled in my lips with Jordana EasyLiner in Sedona Red and then applied Mistress of Darkness to the outer corners of my lips.<br />
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You can check out my <a href="https://instagram.com/blkvelveteen20/">Instagram</a> where I posted a few photos/videos. I took a <a href="https://instagram.com/p/8_e4FOmFYV/?taken-by=blkvelveteen20">selfie of the husband and I</a> after the show with the stage in back and a <a href="https://instagram.com/p/8_Z5WKGFbz/?taken-by=blkvelveteen20">video of Elvira leaving the Meet & Greet</a>.<br />
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I was head to toe in Elvira swag; Not just my nails & lips. I also wore my fantastic <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164263096/goth-mistress-of-dark-skull-charm?ref=shop_home_active_4&ga_search_query=mistress">Goth Mistress of Dark Earrings</a> from Whimsy Lovelies on etsy, <a href="http://www.sourpussclothing.com/kreepsville-elvira-cobweb-tunic-dress.html">Kreepsville Elvira Cobweb Tunic Dress</a> from Sourpuss Clothing, Bunny Paige <a href="http://www.bunnypaige.com/collections/rings/products/siam-swarovski-crystal-cocktail-ring">Crystal Cocktail Ring in Siam</a>, and <a href="http://elvira.hostedbywebstore.com/Elvira-Perfume-Demeter-Fragrance-Library/dp/B00EZC93A2">Elvira's very own perfume</a> in Zombie.<br />
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<i>Sunlight.</i></div>
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As for <u>Glam Polish, Elvira</u>, it applied beautifully in 2 easy coats over L.A. Girls Marine Base Coat. This is a linear holo but it is also a duochrome that has a pink shift. Pretty darn amazing if you ask me. Sadly, it is no longer available. Sorry. But I think they need to re-release this one... I need to buy a bottle to give Elvira the next time I meet her.<br />
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<i>It's Glitter-ific!</i></div>
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On my ring nail I applied one even coat of <a href="http://www.dollishpolish.bigcartel.com/product/2014-zombies-need-love-too-and-brains-zombies-only-like-you-for-your-brain-full-polish">Dollish Polish, Zombies Only Like You For Your Brain</a> from last years Halloween Collection. A <span style="color: #1b1b1b;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">glitter bomb with various shapes and shades, including grays, browns, purples, plums, and burgun<span style="font-family: inherit;">dy</span>. It's a pretty fun mix.</span></span></span><br />
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Both are great polishes with great formulas and I had very little clean up. All nails got a coat of In A Hurry.<br />
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Are you an Elvira fan too? I grew up watching her and one of my all-time favorite movies is <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elvira,_Mistress_of_the_Dark">Elvira, Mistress of the Dark</a>. I can watch it over and over again and love it.Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-63602839945807156132015-10-21T09:00:00.000-07:002015-10-21T09:00:03.461-07:00Frenzy Polish, If The Apocalypse Comes Beep Me.Sometimes I don't make any sense and this is one of those times; I'm getting ready to watch the Season Premiere of The Walking Dead but I put a Buffy The Vampire Slayer polish on. I'm not sure why I did that but this combo was just calling out to me and I like to listen to my polish. Well, it's got the Apocalypse in common...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOSzN9n1pu2AkXWnu7ZbCysP-bTJ_rXmT8z_PN4iIptdEXOfe8c9hsnRPiYY_nZ2kQzUIL-5qNupLthEK_9j1mnVVjFxzi6cUJ6QUd8ppu8ZvPlMygTgpmPvwMuoj-1xNWl31hh7I3N9c/s1600/IMG_1941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOSzN9n1pu2AkXWnu7ZbCysP-bTJ_rXmT8z_PN4iIptdEXOfe8c9hsnRPiYY_nZ2kQzUIL-5qNupLthEK_9j1mnVVjFxzi6cUJ6QUd8ppu8ZvPlMygTgpmPvwMuoj-1xNWl31hh7I3N9c/s640/IMG_1941.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.frenzypolish.com/product/if-the-apocalypse-comes-beep-me">If The Apocalypse Comes Beep Me</a> is a magenta purple jelly packed with various fine pink and purple glitters, there are even some flakies throughout. This was a rough one to apply; for some reason this polish separates really quickly; the middle gets really thick and goopy with the glitters so I found I had to add some thinner and still had to shake it/roll it quite often to keep it workable. I used 3 coats to even everything out; it tended to apply patchy. The brush also didn't want to cooperate too well. But after you get it to this point you can see how incredibly complex this is. It's so deep and beautiful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3K2Oy4djraSSQgfGQuxPoXLMzDpLeNYm4zu1M4yMgDlhjaCUyIHOvsgX2eLTwhnbmHgfGya6eTEZLSPe5gWnMNX5ULgBEMMw-tpT0ukkR0ye4XchCD_EpRwzPkxuRJmQM-H41MkXtGI/s1600/IMG_1942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3K2Oy4djraSSQgfGQuxPoXLMzDpLeNYm4zu1M4yMgDlhjaCUyIHOvsgX2eLTwhnbmHgfGya6eTEZLSPe5gWnMNX5ULgBEMMw-tpT0ukkR0ye4XchCD_EpRwzPkxuRJmQM-H41MkXtGI/s640/IMG_1942.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>In This photo you can see the patchiness of ITACBM.</i></div>
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I also purchased the <a href="http://grngoddesscreations.storenvy.com/products/14087358-i-slay-water-slide-nail-decals-transparent">Water Slide Decals</a> to go with this polish and painted my middle nails with <a href="http://everglazelacquer.com/Products/product_763.html">EverGlaze, Optimal Opal</a>, a soft ethereal pink shimmer. In the photos it looks like the tip of my nail wasn't wrapped but it was and it didn't look like this in real life. I used 2 coats and stuck the Big 'B' for Buffy on my nails. Sadly, I don't like the way these decals turned out; they bubbled really bad and I followed the directions to a tee. Oh well, you win some, lose some.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPI2wcaI0I_U263rlbz-hqKhtyobTHOEKPMU1P_60jPF-lZaEKwetIQNhKVS4-DugTjMX717BvJPadDWzXnL_Pc0OHrRYO6__IPRJv1kACPrIJgNUwz_qiCVJsdsyEbKSbXWNu1QYsnsg/s1600/IMG_1943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPI2wcaI0I_U263rlbz-hqKhtyobTHOEKPMU1P_60jPF-lZaEKwetIQNhKVS4-DugTjMX717BvJPadDWzXnL_Pc0OHrRYO6__IPRJv1kACPrIJgNUwz_qiCVJsdsyEbKSbXWNu1QYsnsg/s640/IMG_1943.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>It's like a magenta galaxy...</i></div>
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All nails got a coat of In A Hurry Top Coat.<br />
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These held up pretty well through the week and I had once again used the L.A. Girls Marine Base Coat.<br />
<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-60305501367135535322015-10-18T09:00:00.000-07:002015-10-18T09:00:07.294-07:00Finger Paints, Enchanted Winter.I needed something quick and durable this particular week so I grabbed for a texture.<br />
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This is actually from a 2013 Holiday Collection that was a bit of a sleeper but it's a fantastic collection of textures. I remember stalking my local Sally Beauty Supply stores for this collection.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Enchanted Winter</u> is just a fantastic texture polish; this is a great color and a great formula. It's a very sparkly mauve pink. Not to mention it's a dupe for <span style="background-color: white;">Nicole by OPI Cinna-Man of my Dreams. Sadly, this is no longer available.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">I applied 2 coats for perfect opacity and it applied so nicely I had very little clean up. Dried quick too!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">I used <a href="http://www.ikatehouse.com/la-girl-marine-base-coat.html">L.A. Girl Marine Base Coat</a> and no top coat.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">I was so busy I </span>wasn't able to do my nails for two weeks and this held tight! Amazing! I really love Finger Paints Nail Color; they have a great selection of colors and are priced right.</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-13076394405246861412015-10-15T09:00:00.000-07:002015-10-15T09:00:02.160-07:00Wet n Wild Megalast, I Moss Have It.Wet n Wild's <u>Here's To The Wild Ones</u> Collection got me; I picked up <a href="https://instagram.com/p/6liXUumFe7/?taken-by=blkvelveteen20">3 of the nail colors</a>, <a href="https://instagram.com/p/6lUW6_mFZv/?taken-by=blkvelveteen20">one eye shadow palette</a>, and <a href="https://instagram.com/p/6qMv23mFWW/?taken-by=blkvelveteen20">ALL of the lipsticks</a>. Yep, all of them. I absolutely LOVE the Megalast Mattes; such great pigmentation, feel comfortable, and last forever. All around fantastic lipstick.<br />
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However, my favorite out of everything is this nail polish. I'm addicted to these olive toned greens and the shimmer and glitter flakes in this polish are mesmerizing.<br />
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<a href="http://nouveaucheap.blogspot.com/2015/08/spotted-wet-n-wild-fall-2015-limited.html">I Moss Have It</a> is a deep olive green with golden shimmer that glows from within a murky base. The formula is awesome, but use a different brush. When first applying the polish I noticed the brush was literally dragging the color off my nail. I pulled out my dusty Julep Plie Wand (I really should use this more because it actually does feel great in my hand) and all was right with the world. With the right brush this is a very opaque, smooth formula. But with the standard ManiCurve Pro Brush it applies it on the sheer side. Some formulas apply great with this brush but some others don't. Dry time was average.<br />
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Heads up: This does not appear to be available online so you will have to find it in stores if you want it. I found mine at Walgreens but I hear they have been spotted at various retailers.<br />
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Just for testing purposes I used the <a href="http://www.ikatehouse.com/la-girl-marine-base-coat.html">L.A. Girl Marine Base Coat</a> again and it worked great again.<br />
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I decided to add some bling on my ring nail so I grabbed Cult Nails' Lime Light. One of the last polishes I bought from Cult Nails before they closed their doors. This is a nice fine glitter consisting mostly of gold, but with some blue and magenta scattered throughout. This is one coat and it actually applied really nice and evenly.<br />
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Everything got topped with <a href="http://www.ikatehouse.com/la-girl-quick-dry-top-coat.html">L.A. Girl Quick Dry Top Coat</a>. This stuffs pretty good too! Not as heavy duty as my In A Hurry but definitely on par with Seche Vite.<br />
<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-892525515620363292015-10-11T09:00:00.000-07:002015-10-11T09:00:00.987-07:00Bear Pawlish, You Ain't Limon.For the last week of summer I decided to go out with a bang; a lemon lime holo. Then, I took forever to post it. My bad.<br />
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The new job has been exhausting to say the least. I've been so tired...<br />
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But I set aside a chunk of time today to bang out some posts just for you.<br />
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<i>The irony is we had rain this day so my lighting sucked. My apologies for the less than stellar photo.</i></div>
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I also wanted to talk to you guys about my new favorite base coat for holos. You may (or may not) know that holo nail polish can be a little finicky. It will often help application if you use an 'Aqua Base'. Basically, it's just a certain type of base coat that works especially well under holos. For the longest time Nfu-Oh's Aqua Base was my best base coat for this purpose but after doing more research I realized that Nfu-Oh probably isn't cruelty free. Plus, they have never responded to any of my inquiries.<br />
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="5" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/7rDR4RGFbr/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">These @lagirlcosmetics #matteflatfinishpigmentgloss lippes are so bomb 💣💥 Great colors, easy to apply and last! Plus, they were priced right at #ikatehouse @ikatehouse #yaykatehouse</a></div>
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A photo posted by Kelly Tomlinson (@blkvelveteen20) on <time datetime="2015-09-16T01:15:16+00:00" style="line-height: 17px;">Sep 15, 2015 at 6:15pm PDT</time></div>
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I recently learned of a new website called <a href="http://www.ikatehouse.com/">ikatehouse</a>; they have tons of inexpensive makeup including L.A. Color & L.A. Girl which are both inexpensive, cruelty free brands (they are both owned by the same parent company). I did a huge haul; if you follow me on <a href="https://instagram.com/blkvelveteen20/">Instagram</a> you saw that I went a little cray cray on the <a href="http://www.ikatehouse.com/la-girl-matte-pigment-gloss.html">L.A. Girl Matte Flat Finish Pigment Glosses</a>. I also got several different shades of the PRO Conceal (said to be a dupe of MAC), the PRO BB Cream, PRO Setting Spray, and a grip of their Nail Treatments. Oh, and lashes and lash glue.<br />
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They packaged everything super well, adorably, and it shipped amazingly quick.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.ikatehouse.com/la-girl-marine-base-coat.html">L.A. Girl Marine Base Coat</a> works just as good (if not better) than the Nfu-Oh. No joke, this lasted the longest any holo has ever stayed on my nails. Holos are notorious for chipping and I'm lucky to get 3 days; but I got a decent 6 days. It also applies pretty well too; I did get a wonky brush so I have to make sure to turn it to a good side. I highly recommend this base coat.<br />
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<i>Rocking my awesome Icing Midi Rings.</i></div>
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I applied 3 coats of <u>You Ain't Limon</u> over the L.A. Girl Marine Base Coat. It applied very smoothly and evenly. I really love the brushes in <a href="http://bearpawlish.bigcartel.com/">Bear Pawlish</a>; they are flat tipped brushes that fan out over the nail. You get a very clean line at the cuticle. These photos don't show off the incredible linear holo this polish has. Right now this polish isn't available but I recommend following the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BearPawlish">Bear Pawlish Facebook Page</a> for info on restocks; this one might come back.<br />
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Disclaimer: I bought all of this and wasn't paid or compensated for this post. I thought you might think I was selling out here but I really was impressed with ikatehouse and L.A. Girl's Marine Base.<br />
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<br />Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-34808961214535811602015-09-21T09:00:00.000-07:002015-09-21T09:00:03.364-07:00Dance Legend, Robots vs Humans.<p> Who's ready for some holographic goodness? This bronzey brown holo is packing a serious linear holo and it even jumps out at you in shade. Indoors it comes off as a sparkly neutral brown. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--B6-kHg0ACE/Vf9MRlLSP4I/AAAAAAAADRM/EfbexGTAP9s/s1594/Photo%25252020150920171603226.jpg" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--B6-kHg0ACE/Vf9MRlLSP4I/AAAAAAAADRM/EfbexGTAP9s/s500/Photo%25252020150920171603226.jpg" id="blogsy-1442794574686.0947" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dance Legend, Robots vs Humans.</td></tr></tbody></table><p> The formula on <a href="http://dance-legend.com/catalog/new_prism/09_robots_vs_humans/" target="_self" title="">Robots vs Humans</a> was nice and pretty easy to apply; 2 coats gave me a nice opacity and dry time was average. I did use a base coat of Nfu-Oh Aqua Base; keep in mind I do not believe Nfu-Oh is cruelty free. I bought this years ago when I was under the impression it was CF but with the recent info on animal testing I seriously doubt they would be considered CF. I couldn't find any solid info on their product(s) and animal testing. Now, Aqua Bases are some of the best types of bases to use with holos; they apply easier & wear longer... But I experienced an issue with wear. After only 2 hours (and zero wear & tear) I experienced chipping on my left hand. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-15peqpPNo7c/Vf9MTHecBSI/AAAAAAAADRU/yTr3NeVqkPI/s1609/Photo%25252020150920171603358.jpg" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-15peqpPNo7c/Vf9MTHecBSI/AAAAAAAADRU/yTr3NeVqkPI/s500/Photo%25252020150920171603358.jpg" id="blogsy-1442794574661.951" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Really? Chipping after a few hours?</td></tr></tbody></table><p> That is a disappointment. It's a beautiful polish and typically holos DO chip quickly on my nails but this was extreme. I had also top coated with my usual In A Hurry. </p><p>I recently picked up L.A. Girls' Marine Base Coat and I've had good results with it so my Nfu-Oh will be moving out. My next post will give you a good review of it. </p><p>So, I gotta say that I don't think I will be picking up anymore Dance Legend holos; I do have a neon glitter that holds up pretty good though. </p><p>For the life of me I cannot remember where I got these... I think I won a gift card in a giveaway and used it towards buying this polish but I am not sure which online retailer I used. It was like a year ago... Or maybe more.</p><p> Have a great week gang!</p><p> </p>Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7976665617860126921.post-62243061538840881472015-09-14T09:00:00.000-07:002015-09-14T09:00:03.474-07:00China Glaze, Pool Party.Check out this awesome red/orange neon my friend, Abbey, sent to me!<div>
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<i>Sunlight.</i></div>
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It was super hard to get a good picture because it is so bright it freaked out my camera/phone.</div>
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<i>Sunlight, again.</i></div>
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<a href="http://www.chinaglaze.com/Colour/All-Colour/pid_7.html">Pool Party</a> is from the Poolside Collection which was released for the Summer of 2010. I've also got <a href="http://kellsdiynails.blogspot.com/2012/09/china-glaze-kiwi-cool-ada.html">Kiwi Cool-Ada</a> & <a href="http://kellsdiynails.blogspot.com/2014/06/nail-art-challenge-pattern.html">Flip Flop Fantasy</a> from this collection. Formula is a little on the sheer side and I did have some visible nail line but it wasn't enough to bother me. You can always use an opaque white base under neons but I honestly don't mind a little bit of VNL; especially when the formula self levels well (which this did). I used 2 coats for most nails but a few nails did require a 3rd coat, for some reason a few of them looked sheerer than the rest but that's probably due to my application. Consistency was on the thin and runny side but I didn't experience any pooling at the cuticle because I didn't load up my brush too much. The first coat was definitely too sheer and very uneven but the 2nd pretty much evened everything out. It dried to a satin matte finish so I used a coat of ACI's In A Hurry Quick Dry Top Coat.</div>
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On my ring nail I applied one coat (using the dabbing method) of <a href="http://dance-legend.com/catalog/top_rio/3/">Dance Legend, Rio 3</a>; a mix of square neon glitters. A very fun topper. <a href="http://kellsdiynails.blogspot.com/2014/08/shark-week-maui-and-sons.html">I've used this before in a mani</a> but I wanted to add a little something and this was perfect. I actually did my toes in Pool Party too but put this glitter on top of all my toes. It's a neon party on my toes!</div>
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<i>Indoors.</i></div>
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You can see just how bright this polish is in this last photo. </div>
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How are you spending your last week of summer?</div>
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Kelly Tomlinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08630961027616693592noreply@blogger.com0