Oxygenation...Ooooh

{crave}

I change facial products like I change my clothes.

But once I find something I am hooked.

And I think this product has got me!

Bioelements Oxygenation

Product description: An intensive treatment creme formulated with stabilized hydrogen peroxide and pure lavender oil. Perfect for skin dulled by smoking, stress, and aging.

How does it work?  Revitalizes dull, sluggish skin, helps unclog pores and produces a clean, refreshed feeling. Gives skin a healthy-looking glow with daily use.

Price: $50.00

Where can I get it?

Bioelements or Amazon

What does b* say?

On my hunt for moisturizer I was searching for something lightweight that I could wear under my makeup but still effective.  I have complex skin so in some areas it need to be light and in others it need to be more aggressive.  I feel like oxygenation does the trick. I can wear it morning or evening and it leaves my skin smooth, refreshed, and moisturized. 



Cravin' the Cream

{crave}

I know this seems a little unseasonal but it is not!

The other night I was making Apple Crisp and I believe nothing complements "crisp" better than a homemade bowl of Ice cream. 

 It may sound labor intensive but it is not with this fancy NO FUSS machine.

The Cuisinart Ice Pure Indulgence Ice Cream Maker

Product description: The Cuisinart Stainless Steel Ice Cream Sorbet Maker is your fully automated way to quickly get 2 quarts of homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet in as little as 25 minutes. The heavy-duty motor, automatic mixing paddle, and double-insulated freezer bowl do all the work for you. The large ingredient spout allows for easily adding favorite fruits, candies, or nuts to your frozen treat. Homemade ice cream is fun to make with children and is economically friendly on the wallet, no more outrageous in-store prices for rock hard ice cream. The stainless steel design make this unit a sleek and attractive addition in your kitchen.

Price $64.00

Where can I get it?

Amazon or Overstock {best price $55.99}

What does b* say?

Last summer, I made quite a few batches of ice cream, but for whatever reason we didn't even pull this bad boy out once until last week.  I always leave the bowl in the freezer so it is cold whenever I need it.  I have mixed many flavors but my all time favorite is Vanilla and this is the easiest recipe...

Vanilla Ice Cream:

2 cups half and half

2 cups whole milk

1 can sweet and condensed milk

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Mix all together and pour in frozen Ice cream bowl.  Let churn for 45 minutes and then put in freezer safe Tupperware.  Freeze for 1.5 hours.  and ENJOY!

a fall neccessity

{crave}

It's dry season friends...

here is my fall fix

True Blue® Spa

Lay It On Thick™ Intense Moisture Shea Body Cream

Product description: Nothing makes skin feel better than incredibly rich shea butter. This deluxe cream takes it even further with protecting, conditioning vitamin E. Because you know that more is really more.

Price: $20.00

Where can I get it?

Bath and Body Works

What does b* say?

My skin gets ridiculously dry from about September to about April. (unreal right?)  That's Utah for you.  Not complaining, just saying.  I came across Lay It On Thick about two years ago and I am singing it's praises.  I lather it on thick before I go to bed and let it soak in all night.  When I wake up my skin is smooth, moisturized, and for the most part crack free.

i "envy" your nails

{crave}

I love painted nails!

It is rare that they are polish free, but lately my seemingly strong nails are frail and peeling at the free edge. 

Although unusual, I have found that nails go through cycles as does hair. 

Que product of the day...

Nail Envy by: OPI

Product description: You wouldn't face harsh elements without a coat, so why leave your nails unprotected? Fortify, protect, and harden thin, brittle natural nails with the Original Nail Envy. For results, apply two coats, followed by a one-coat application every other day.  Maximum Strength Formula with Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein & Calcium

Price: $8.99+

Where can I get it?

Most beauty supply stores

OPI  or Amazon

What does b* say?

Well as I mentioned above my nails are unusually frail right now.  I have been doing as suggested for the last week and they are almost back to what I would call "normal".  It goes on like a top coat but is not necessarily topical.  It seems like the protein and calcium seep in to the nail to strengthen and harden the nail.  As I was doing a bit more research on the product I found, that OPI has branched from the original and added 5 other individualized strengtheners. Check them out here.

creamy with a lighter finish

{crave}

It is no secret that La Mer is my most indulgent product.

Every time I put it on I feel as though I am bathing in sea of goodness

I typically use...

Creme De La Mer

Crème de la Mer's Miracle Broth™ is suspended within its extraordinary formula. To activate the broth and release its key ingredients, warm a small amount between your fingertips. As you pat onto clean, dry skin, you will instantly feel the soothing effects of the broth. Smooth over your face, neck, even under the fragile eye area. Apply day and night – for a lifetime.

Price $130.00

Where can I get it?

Any high end department store

La Mer or Amazon

What does b* say?

This is the ultimate night creme.  It is rich and lush! But sometimes it is to thick... 

and that brings me to this...

My newest 

{crave}

It is a lighter version of this awesomeness

La Mer The Moisturizing Gel Creme

An ultralight edition of the original Crème de la Mer that hydrates and refreshes the skin, leaving a supremely soft finish.

Price $130.00+

Where can I get it?

Any high end department store

La Mer or Amazon

What does b* say?

This would be my first choice.  Although the other is luscious I can't use it everyday due to it's thickness.  The gel I can put on at night or prior to makeup application.  If you are ever at a make up counter you need to test this!  I think you'll love it too. 

Guest Post - Ty Severe

{crave}

Hey dolls, I am Ty. 

My partner Brandon and I own the fabulous jewelry company

Tyrant Collection

I love our customizable disk necklace, and let me just say it again, I LOVE it! This piece combines a modern and vintage look that is feminine and dainty, but still creates an impact.Made of sterling silver, it is truely universal and can be customized to fit your style. Wear just the single disk with you or a loved one's initial, or add a smaller disk to represent your children or a pet. Mine would have an "N" for Naomi our chihuahua. And to add in exclusive information. . . It will be available in GOLD this coming month! Check out tyrantcollection.com to get your very own.

What does b* say?

Can't find words.  

These two are creative geniuses. 

This necklace is sweet, simple, and carries such meaning.  It is understated, delicate, and perfect for any occasion.  Thank you Ty for taking time out your day to blog with us.  

Much love, 

b

My Santa Monica top 3

{crave}

#1

Hands down my favorite thing about traveling is the food.  

And let me tell you Santa Monica did not disappoint!

With much luck I stumbled across this place

BLUE PLATE

Located on:

1415 Montana Ave
Santa Monica CA 90403
(310) 260-8877

There slogan is: Neighborhood joint serving healthy comfort food

It was farmers market fresh and absolutely divine. 

 Dinner was so good that we came back for lunch the next day!

b*s favs

The fish tacos,  chips salsa and guac, beet and goat cheese salad, macaroni and cheese(amazing), sweet potato fries w/special sauce (the sauce was unreal),  and peach\berry crisp with an extra scoop of ice cream.

Yes, I did try all of these and I would bet that you could not go wrong with anything on their menu.  Their price's are reasonable and the quality of food is impeccable.  I strongly suggest that if you are in the are in the are you hit up this little joint.

{rave}

I originally saw this on Lauren Conrad in US Weekly or In Touch and instantly fell in love!

Then I saw it in person and liked it even more

Rebecca Taylors Layered vest

Product description: Dramatic tiers of knit ruffles adorn this one-button design featuring a deep V neckline and an extended banded hem.

Price: $259.00

Where Can I get it?

Nordstom

(best price)

What does b* say?

Love it.  It is great for fall and adds an unexpected flare to any out fit.  Pricey? Yes.  Classic? No

 Worth it?  

I leave that up to you!

{crave}

We have lit the same candle scent in our home for 4 years. 

It is my all time fav and will get it's own post soon.  

But I will tell you one thing this may be a new addition to our house hold when the other burns out.

grapefruit pop candle by: Jonathan Adler

Product description: Grapefruit is a blend of pink grapefruit, white grapefruit rind, green vine accords, pink freesia, and passionfruit.

Price: $38.00

Where can I get it?

Jonathan Adler

What does b* say?

As a kid I didn't like grapefruit at all... the smell, the taste, nothin'

But the older I get the more it grows on me.  And like I said this may be the new house hold scent. 

A day to hang

{crave}

Don't know if this really works as a crave or not but... it's my blog

and

My wall are "cravin" some art!

I think I am going to put this

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I am a child of God print multi

product description: This happy print reminds us of who we are and our divine potential, while presenting a graphically pleasing design. The multi color way is ideal for any space!This beautiful giclée print has been created with archival Epson UltraChrome pigment ink on Crane Lettra 100% cotton (300 gsm) paper which combined makes a lovely print that will last a lifetime (technically two).  The I Am a Child of God image measures 8x10" printed on a 8.5x11 piece of paper to create a small border for ease of framing. Each print is signed and dated in the lower right corner.

Price: $24.00

Where can I get it?

ETSY

What does b* say?

Love it Love it, Great message... find more here.  We have the mulit and blue.  One for G and One for C.  Simple, sleek, and contemporary. 

In this

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Ribba

product description: 

The mat enhances the picture and makes framing easy.

PH-neutral mat; will not discolor the picture.

Can be hung horizontally or vertically to fit in the space available.

Adapted in size to hang several together.

Price: $14.99

Where do I get it?

Ikea

What does b* say?

Clean lines and brushed silver will adorn C and G's walls perfectly.  I love Ikea for frames, Unbeatable price!

the most luxuries body creme

{crave}

I kid you not my body craves this!  

I was introduced to La Mer | Body Creme by my sis-in-law, she always smelled so fresh and not like your typical bar of soap fresh.  I would define it as the most delicate and refreshing scent I have ever smelled.  Once I got more familiar with the product the smell took a back seat to all of the benefits of the product.  As I began to use I definitely noticed more supple and smooth skin.

What does the web say?

Product description: A sumptuous cream that saturates the skin with a wave of long-lasting hydration. Like a seaweed wrap in a jar, this luxurious moisturizing cream infuses dry skin with long-lasting hydration. Micro-Algae Complex attracts and captures moisture throughout the day. Blue Algae Life Ferment™ immediately restores clarity and works over time to diminish the appearance of minor discolorations and improve firmness and tone. Skin emerges supple, smooth and glowing. As The Body Crème is massaged into the skin, circulation is improved. Skin’s look and feel take on a radiant new life. The Body Crème is so lastingly hydrating, daily use may be unnecessary.

Price: $130.00-$195.00

Where can I get it?

www.cremedelamer.com  or www.bloomingdales.com 

What does b* say?

I was really apprehensive at first because it is a very expensive product, but I was blown away. It is so moisturizing, and in a climate like the one I live in winters are harsh and tend to dry out my skin!  I constantly have my hands in water and before using La Mer the lack of moisture would leave me with cracked and dry skin.  I am a firm believer that La mer moisturizes all day. My skin feels as soft at night as it did when I applied it that morning.  One thing to note is that it is very long lasting and you don't have to use very much.  Is it worth the cost?  Try it let me know what you think!

Couldn't wait to get home to what?

{crave}{fav}

Saturday at 3:30 am I embarked on a one day adventure with my daddy.  Almost all {heavy on the all} adventures with him have to do with a car, car show, car auction, car unavailing etc... regardless of the the reason a day with him anymore is rare and one I would not pass up.   So after 4 flights, 2 layovers, 1 amazing breakfast, 3 auctions, 1 Ferrari unavailing, horrible airport Chinese food, and no sleep for almost 22 hours let me tell you the product I craved most...

Kiehl's Foaming Non-Detergent Washable Cleanser

Product description: Lathering cleanser.  Suitable for oily or combinations skin.  Produces a lather necessary to remove excess surface oils.  Not tested on animals.  Key ingredients:  Apricot kernel oil, Contains high amount of vitamin E and it aids in fast absorption.  Avocado oil, avocado is know to be the most moisturizing fruit and contains amino acid, vitamins, and potassium. 

Where can I get it?

www.kiehls.com or www.nordstrom.com or any department store that carries Kiehls

Price?

4.2 fl. oz. $12.50

8.4 fl. oz. $17.50

16.9 fl. oz $26.50

What does B* say?

I kid you not I was so excited to get home to wash my face!  I walked in the door and this is the first thing I did.  So why this cleanser?... I have never had much luck with cleansers.  I have sensitive combination skin and I love to pick my face.  I have used numerous products from cream based to liquid and this to date is my absolute fav.  It is a gel not cream, but once it's wet it lathers like nothing else there is no strong scent and it removes makeup completely.  It is gentle and yet I feel it has done it's job.  Oh another thing is that I don't feel like it breaks the bank either.  $26.50 for a large bottle is not too bad! I recommend this to all and hope you like it as well as I do.

Don't forget to sign up for our first giveaway!!

The Best Pancake

{crave}

One thursday afternoon Mr. Ace and I were at the local  Williams Sonoma  picking up a few items for the dinner\breakfast we were having that evening.  We picked up the things needed but still felt like the dinshig was missing something.  We had your basic eggscramble with pepper and onions, bacon, waffles and were considering german pancake but wanted some thing more.  The sales gal lead us to this and told us to look up this ...  It has been a great addition to the cookbook library and in the Ace's opinion the best darn pancake!

Williams-Sonoma Essentials of Breakfast & Brunch Cookbook

Product description:

Attention breakfast and brunch lovers: Your ultimate cookbook has arrived. From our Essentials series, this volume is filled with inspiration, advice and more than 130 recipes with color photos. All the classic, comforting breakfast favorites are here – from eggs to French toast to pastries – along with fresh new ideas for salads, sandwiches, main dishes and drinks for Sunday brunches casual and elegant. Detailed tips on shopping, cooking and entertaining will enrich your culinary know-how, and there's a full page devoted to preparing the perfect cup of coffee. Hardcover, 288 pages. A Williams-Sonoma exclusive.

Price: $34.95

Where can I get it?

www.williams-sonoma.com

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

A fresh cheese with a slightly sweet flavor, ricotta is produced from whey drained off while making other cheeses, such as mozzarella and provolone. It lends a delicate texture to these melt-in-your-mouth pancakes. Serve with raspberry sauce, if desired (see related recipe at left).

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 3 eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup sugar
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 1/2 cups cake flour
• 1 Tbs. baking powder
• 1/4 tsp. salt

Directions:

In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta, milk, egg yolks, sugar, lemon zest and juice until smooth. Sift together the flour, baking powder and 1/8 tsp. of the salt over the ricotta mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until just combined. 

In another large bowl, using a whisk, beat the egg whites until frothy. Add the remaining 1/8 tsp. salt and continue beating until soft peaks form. Using a rubber spatula, fold one-third of the egg whites into the ricotta mixture, then gently fold in the remaining whites. 

Preheat a griddle over medium heat. Spray the griddle with nonstick cooking spray. Ladle 1/3 cup batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on top and the pancakes are golden underneath, 1 to 2 minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook for 1 minute more. Transfer to a warmed plate. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Makes 12 to 14 pancakes.Williams-Sonoma Kitchen.

What Does B* Say?

In general I am not a huge at home pancake lover.  I guess that is because I grew up on bis-quick and although palatable it was definitely not one to write home about!  These on the other hand are, light, fluffy, and utterly delectable!  I make a few tweeks and I think it is perfection... I like a stronger lemon flavor so I add more zest and about a teaspoon of lemon juice to the batter.  This cake can be dressed many different ways syrup, strawberries, powdered sugar, but I prefer a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, drizzled with a warm **blueberry sauce, and topped with fresh whipped cream. Yummy!

** Blueberry Sauce

In a sm-med sauce pan combine 

1/2 to 1 cup sugar  

1 cup water 

1 pint blueberries

and zest of 1 one lemon

and juice of half a lemon

bring to a boil and reduce.  Once syrup is to desired consistency you are good to go!

Happy Sunday Brunching

Photo taken by: Brittany

The Ultimate Summer Time Sandwich

{Crave}

Nothing screams summertime to me more than an

avocado - tomato - cucumber - sandwich

This slice of deliciousness has evolved throughout the years.

What once was a meager piece of toast and avocado has now become in my opinion the ultimate summers night crave.

Growing up my family was extremely busy {even that is an understatement}. I can count on two hands the meals we had around a dinner table with everyone present {excluding Sundays}. One thing I could always count on was a piece of bread, tomato or avocado. I have probably had hundreds of these and on the rare occasion that we would have tomato and avocado I would combine {OH...}. Now that I am much older ;) and have a crazy work\family life delivering a sufficient family meal every night is not always easy. But one thing I can usually count on is a slice of wheat bread tomato and avocado. Their are many options with this sandwich and I like mine with a crisp, crunchy cucumber.

How do I make this:

Toast one piece of Wheat Bread

Smash or cut one Avocado {I prefer the smash. You can smooth it on like butter. No sliding}

Spread on toast

Cut in rounds one Roma Tomato

Place on Avo Spread

Sprinkle Kosher Salt and Pepper generously {Salt brings out the flavor in the tomato}

and

Enjoy

**Also try with**

Cucumbers or Sprouts

Picture taken by: Brittany

Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask By Bliss

{Rave} {Crave}

What does the web say?

bliss triple oxygen™ instant energizing mask
InStyle best beauty buy 2009 & 2010!

A super quick fix for dull, tired and sallow, 'I'm sick of my skin' skin. Engineered to mimic the effects of our spa's famous Triple Oxygen Treatment Facial in seconds. This fabulous complexion brightening formula uses every 'tech' in the book to give you fresher, younger-looking skin.•delivers oxygen to the skin with innovative Fluid02 technology•brightens, lightens, and tightens the skin with the most active powerful form of Vitamin C available•protects cells from free radical damage with powerful antioxidants

Where can I get it?

www.blissworld.com  or  www.amazon.com

How much is it?

$52.00

What does B* say?

I was reading some reviews on the product and Svetlana an Esthetician from Bliss Soho stated it perfectly, "The day I tested our new Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask, I got asked if I was in love, if I just had a facial-where did I get that glow? I was completely taken back by the fresh, healthy glow from just one bubbling application (the gently foam action is just part of the fun). My skin looked more alive than it had in a 'few' years."

My thoughts exactly.

Last night C woke up 6 times between the hours of 2 o'clock and 6 o'clock {as you get to know me better you will understand that I do not function on disrupted sleep}. I woke up this morning looking like a train hit me. First remedy I though of was this mask {hey... it said ENERGY!}. Although it did not cure my gnarly headache or lethargic body it sure whipped my face into shape. I like how Svetlana refered to it as a healthy glow.

Give it a try.

Pictures off www.blissworld.com