Meet Charlie Parker

I was all set to do a fantastic FOTD for you guys (seriously, with sparkles and EVERYTHING)  but a little guy named Charlie Parker changed everything.

 First meeting with Charlie at my friend's house

One of my friends saw someone push little Charlie out of a moving vehicle (SERIOUSLY, WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE?). He pulled over and scooped up this little Beagle/Pug (aka Puggle) mix, and took him to the vet and got him checked out.

Charlie with his temporary foster sister at my friend's house

While Charlie was with the vet, he got updated shots, de-wormed and microchipped.

Then my friend put Charlie up on Facebook, and asked if anyone could give him a home. My friend already has a dog and a new baby, and can't really take in any additional pets.

I didn't hesitate. I saw Charlie bright and early this morning (instead of staying home and doing the FOTD). He ran right  up to me, tail just wagging all over the place, and got right in my face! I gave him a big hug and we took him home.

Charlie jumping up on my friend and saying goodbye

My other dogs took to him 'right away.' Last I checked (they're being supervised by hubby) they were running around the backyard and chasing each other.

It looks like Charlie is home.

So I ended this year by pouring a little love over a darling little dog, who is now part of our little family.

I couldn't have asked for a better blessing.

Lip Service: MAC Matte Lipstick (Strong Woman)

MAC ended the year on a 'strong' note, with the 'Strength' collection. Most of it was a complete pass for me. But one lipstick really stood out. It's the purple based fuchsia color called 'Strong Woman.'

I swatched this first thing in the morning (when my lips were a bit dry and wrinkly), and I found that mattes are not my friend when that happens. But when my lips are 'normal' -- it's a lot better. This formula really grabs the lips (I even blotted a few times before I got it right).

You can find out more about MAC Strong Woman (and the the entire Strength Collection) HERE.

Favorite Things 2012: Lashing Out

I came across some of the coolest formulas and little 'additions' for making your lashes utterly fabulous this year.

Here's what topped my list:

Mascara: Chanel Le Volume de Chanel

Did Chanel REALLY surpass Armani in terms of a quality mascara? My answer is yes. The Volume de Chanel Mascara is, in my opinion, the best mascara Chanel has ever dreamed up. It not only lengthens and builds volume, it also 'curls' your lashes! Seriously, I can put this mascara on without curling first, and still end up with long, lush curly lashes.

Individual Lashes: MAKE UP FOR EVER Individual Lashes

These Make Up For Ever Individual Lashes have been a life saver! It takes a little practice, but adding individual lashes can become about the simplest thing in any given beauty routine. I've used a ton of these to open up clients eyes without the drama of a strip lash. They work beautifully and look totally natural. You can use them alone or with a little mascara. I highly recommend these babies.

Strip Lashes: VELOUR Mink False Lashes

This is a lovely way to add a little luxury without breaking the bank. What I love about Velour Lashes is that they're so light and comfortable! And, they don't cost an arm an a leg. Most mink lashes can run you in the hundreds of dollars (no, seriously). Plus, you can use these up to 25 times with proper care. And for those of you worried about the lovely little minks that these lashes came from... worry not; The hairs for these lashes come from the what the animals naturally shed when they are brushed.

That's it! Those are my top 'lash' picks for 2012. Ciao for now!