Brown Girl Gumbo

Beat the Winter Skin Blues!

January 6, 2009

Since winter is here to stay for the next few months, now is definitely NOT the time to skimp on moisturizing! Harsh winter winds can wreak havoc on our skin if not properly treated. The best way to protect it during these cold days is to use a facial moisturizer (ideally with SPF 15). I never leave the house without applying a double dose of Oil of Olay; it’s the best for maintaining a healthy glow, while combatting dull, winter-ridden skin!

Do you double-up your daily moisturizing routine during the winter? If so, what is your favorite brand?

Check out some of these top moisturizers!

Oil of Olay Complete Daily Moisturizer available at www.drugstore.com for $10.99

Juice Beauty Organic Facial Moisturizer Concentrate available at www.sephora.com for $36

Hope in a Jar Moisturizer available at www.sephora.com for $15

Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense Facial Moisturizer SPF-50 available at www.drugstore.com for $13.99

Ambi Facial Moisturizer available at www.target.com for $9.49

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 (4 oz.) available at www.barneys.com $29.50

Dove Deep Moisture Facial Cream available at www.skinstore.com for $6.99

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Category: Beauty | 19 Comments

Off to a Great Start!

January 5, 2009

Happy New Year!! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. I had an absolutely perfect time with my family during my trip to Chicago. Although the weather caused a bit of concern initially, ultimately I arrived safely.

I can’t believe it’s 2009!! There are quite a few things that I hope to accomplish within the next 12 months considering it will be my last full year in my fabulous 20s!

What are your hopes and goals for this year? Do you ever make resolutions? If so, do you ever keep them?

Here are a few of mine:

Enhance BGG!

Write more!

Make more time to call family & friends (some don’t count texting as communicating! LOL) Me with my cousins and sister (orange).

Take Spanish lessons (I know a little, but not enough!)

Travel abroad (at least once this year)!

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Category: Uncategorized | 26 Comments

Light My Fire!

December 18, 2008

During this time of year, there’s nothing more festive than lighting a few candles! Since I don’t have any holiday décor showcased in my tiny apartment, I always opt to light a few candles to create a cheerful, yet relaxing environment. For me, being surrounded by a few scented candles is an instant pick-me-up! Plus, they make for perfect inexpensive gifts (although I’d recommend buying a non-scented one if you aren’t sure of the person’s scent preference) for both men and women!

Do you enjoy lighting candles? What’s your favorite scent?

Check out some of these!

Coach Signature Candle available at www.coach.com for $65

Calypso St. Barth Mix & Match Candle Set available at www.calpyso-celle.com for $75

Diptyque Basile Holiday Amber Candle available at www.smallflower.com for $78

Aunt Sadie’s Candy Cane Candle available at www.urbanoutfitters.com for $12.99

Jo Wood Organic Samka Natural Wax Candle available at www.beautyhabit.com for $85

Light My Pink Scented Candle available at www.victoriassecret.com for $20

Le Couvent Des Minimes Verbana & Lemon Scented Candle available at www.macys.com for $20

L’Occitane Cherry Blossom Scented Candle available at www.loccitane.com for $22

Spa Scents 3-in-1 Apple Blossom Scented Candle available at $5.99 at www.sallybeauty.com

**The winner of the Sedu Flat iron is Blair! Congrats! Please send me your mailing address info.

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Category: Uncategorized | 24 Comments

The Most Fabulous Flat Iron!

December 17, 2008

Just when I thought that I’d already found the perfect flat iron, I was introduced to the Sedu Revolutionary Professional Nano Tourmaline Ionic Styler! The difference between this one and my other favorite is the fact that the Sedu iron seems to provide less heat damage. I say this because I don’t get that dreaded burning smell when I’m doing my hair like I did with other one.

Plus, this flat iron has a sleek design and anti-slip edges that prevent hair from slipping, which eliminates snagging. I must admit, the best thing about it is that it comes with a heatproof iron pouch making it perfect for the girl on the go! As much as I despise doing my hair, this flat iron actually makes the task less arduous! I might even try doing something new with my do for the holidays!

Available at www.folica.com for $139.95

Have you ever tried this flat iron? Well one lucky winner will get the chance, right in time for the holidays! Just leave a comment today and the winner will be selected randomly and announced tomorrow.

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Category: Hair | 46 Comments

BGG’s Christmas Wish List!

December 16, 2008

This holiday season has been the first year when there is absolutely nothing that I really want for Christmas. My family has asked me countless times what it is that I’d like to have for Christmas, but I can’t come up with a thing! I guess if I had to choose something, although I don’t REALLY need or desperately want anything, it would be from the following list. On second thought, maybe there are a few things I’d like! LOL

What’s on your wish list this year? What is your all-time favorite Christmas present – ever?

Satin Pajama Set available at www.victoriassecret.com for $59.50

Zadro Double-Sided Illuminated Makeup Mirror available at www.justvanities.com for $79.95

Tarte The Vanity Limited Edition Set available at www.sephora.com for $52

Diamond Fascination 14K Gold Diamond Accent Hoops available at www.kohls.com for $300 (orig. $750!)

Pink & Gold Journal available at www.papyrus.com for $24.95

Gold Crystal Pen available at www.papyrus.com for $8.95

Marc by Marc Jacobs Lock it Up Camille bag available at www.shopbop.com for $249

Diamond Squares & Circles picture frame available at www.papyrusonline.com for $68

Homedics Pedicure Spa Salon Footbath available at www.walmart.com for $49.88

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Category: Gifts | 25 Comments

Chic Coats for Cold Days!

December 15, 2008

Now that there’s absolutely no denying that Old Man Winter is definitely here and will be for the next few months, it’s time to bundle up in coats that will keep us warm without sacrificing style! Whether you prefer a classic textured tweed or a puffy down-feather filled parka, this season the options are endless for all coat-lovers (like me)!

What’s your favorite winter coat style?

Check out a few of these all under $150

Double-Breasted Military Coat available at www.victoriassecret.com for $139

City Style Fur Hooded Coat available at www.nyandcompany.com for $51.98 (orig. $129.95)

City Style Hounstooth Coat available at www.nyandcompany.com for $129.95

Anorak Plumiya Coat available at www.mango.com for $117.99

City Style Wool Captain Coat available at www.nyandcompany.com for $109.95

Bobbie Solid Coat available at www.delias.com for $99

Jessica Simpson Pauline Buckled Coat available at www.nordstrom.com for $105

Textured Cocoon Coat available at www.bananarepublic.com for $129 (orig. $250)

Hilary Radley New York Belted Trench available at www.nordstrom.com for $105.90

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Category: Coats, Fashion | 23 Comments

Great Gifts for Moms!

December 11, 2008

In most cases, our mother is the most special woman in our lives. She’s been there for us through thick and thin. That’s why there’s no monetary limit when shopping for her holiday gifts. Well, ok maybe I’m pushing it, but the love I have for my mom is unlimited! Make your mom’s holiday wishes come true with gifts that she’ll enjoy; but I’m sure she’d be just as thrilled with a hug and a kiss!

Check out some of these marvelous motherly gifts all under $150!

What are you buying your mother this year?

I know that I suggested perfume samplers on the other gift guides, but this fragrance is universally scent-sational! Vera Wang’s Look Eau De Parfum available at www.nordstrom.com for $70