Recipe courtesy of Lindsay Brown and found here: https://www.facebook.com/BigIslandFarmFreshFoods

Lilikoi star bars

1 C soft butter
1/2 C sugar
2 c flour
1/4 t kosher salt

5 eggs
1 C sugar
1/2 C all purp flour
2/3 C lilikoi (or lemon) juice
2-3 star fruit

Preheat oven to 350. 

In a medium bowl, combine first four ingredients. Press into the bottom of an ungreased 9x13 inch pan.

Bake for 20-25 minutes in preheated oven, or until firm and golden.

In another bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 C sugar and 1/2 C flour. Whisk in the eggs and juice. Pour over the baked crust. Top with slices from 2-3 star fruits. 

Bake for an additional 20 minutes. The bars will firm up as they cool.

 
I tend to get a lot of questions with regard to building my Cosmetic/Makeup Gig Kit.  While my products do change up from time to time and vary depending on the work I'm doing... I do have several products that I use each and every time I have work.  In this video I go through what is currently just stocked in my kit... from Foundations to Lipsticks.  As I discussed and mentioned, I do change it out depending on whether or not I am doing Bridal work or glamour.  I also do not take all of these products on most of my gigs, especially Bridal, because I offer trials as a part of many of my services and therefore do not need all the items I go through.  

In the next few weeks, I'll discuss with everyone how to build your kid afford-ably and quickly.  As I mention to many of my Makeup Artist friends or Aspiring Makeup Artist, while drug store is awesome and affordable, it is not ideal to stock your kit with it completely.  I'll definitely discuss that in another video coming soon.

Video of my kit is below. 
xoxo
Honey
 
As you may have read in a previous post - I did a makeup for a Fashion Show on Friday for a Halloween Diva's Night Out.  It was super fun, busy - but just a lot of fun. :)  For my look of the night - I choose to do a nice "Fall Inspired" look.  I didn't want to go with the normal browns and oranges for fall - so I added a pop of pink and a little bit of purple.  I loved how it came out.

Products used:  I-Candy Couture's Only in my Dreams, Graffix, Epik, New Moon, Vanilla and Chantilly on my eyes
Lips: I-Candy Couture's Nude Attitude lipstick with Hula Girl lipgloss
Accessories: I-Candy Couture's Twisted Woven hoops in Black
For my outfit that night - I wanted something that would allow me to be comfortable but cool.  This cute top I'm using is sheer and see through on the top - so I needed to use a camisole underneath.  I'm also using a pair of dark blue jeans.  This outfit was comfortable for me to be able to complete my work, but still very dressy and cute for a great Diva's Night Out.  On my feet for footwear I used my glittery flip flops from Old Navy.

The top was sent to me by 599fashion.com for review and consideration - be on the look out for a formal review soon.

xoxo
Honey
 
I must admit - after being out of commission last week, this week was filled with a ton of catch up and boy has it been a challenge and exhausting.  But, needless to say - It's now Sunday, the night is coming to a close and a new week is just hours away.  While I am quite exhausted, this week was so accomplished in my eyes and I'm glad I was able to get everything done.

Lots of doctor's appointments this week to follow up on being sick.  Ugh - I hate going to the doctor.  But, it's needed and required to follow up.  Then, I had a ton of orders to complete after being out of work for a week.  I'm so lucky that my clients and customers are so forgiving and patient.  You are not going to believe how many pigments and lipsticks were packaged this week.  I lose my breath just thinking about it. lol
I also worked on 2 Halloween looks this week.  I filmed the tutorial for the vampire look, but since it's been so busy - I'm not sure if I'll get it up in time for Halloween.  We'll see.  The 2nd look was my slit mouth look - I was really pleased with how it came out.  I hope I have the chance to do another look like this in the next day or so.  
This past Friday I did makeup at a really cool event called Diva's Night Out - which was hosted at the Grand Wailea Resort & Spa Grande.  I had the privilege of working with another awesome artist for this event.  It was so much fun and I truly enjoyed it.  These are just some of the lovely ladies that were models in the fashion show.  I didn't get a chance to take photos of everyone I worked on - but if I do get them, I'll be sure to share. :)
Are these beauties just awesome.  These are some of the lovelies I did makeup on. They all had gorgeous costumes and were ready to walk down the cat walk. ;)
All in all - it was a pretty productive week.  I'll be posting pics of my look of the night (LOTN) for the Fashion Show in another post.  Wishing you all a wonderful upcoming week.
xoxo
Honey
 
When I was a child, my parents always did fun treats for us kids.  I am lucky that I had such awesome Parents that were creative and loved decorating and doing fun things.  My mom and dad would make us Spiders & Worms... which were so cool, I just absolutely loved sharing them with my children.  
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The supplies that are needed are easy - just your favorite Hot Dogs or Franks... I used Chicken Franks.  You can boil them, but I chose to fry them with a little EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil).   The recipe and tutorial is in the video below.  Enjoy them with your children and have lots of fun this Halloween.  Stay safe!
xoxo
Honey


One of my twins, Luke - enjoying his Spider. :)

 
When I was a child - my mom made Poor Man's pizza for us. They called it Poor Man's Pizza because you could throw together the pizza with supplies you may have already had on hand and the mayonnaise helped to stretch out the cheese so a little would go a long way.  This recipe is a favorite in our household and while we have more money now to add more toppings... it still warms our heart just like it did when I was a child.
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Supplies needed:

  • Sourdough English Muffins or Texas Toast
  • Mayonnaise 
  • Pizza Sauce
  • Mozzarella Cheese
  • Pepperoni
  • Olives
  • and type of topping you would like like Mushrooms, peppers, etc.




Pre heat your oven to 400 Degrees
Cook your pizzas once they are assembled for about 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and Golden brown in color.

Video Tutorial posted below.

If you recreate this - please let me know, post a photo on my Facebook Page or send me a message - I would love to know how you like it.
 
I woke up this morning feeling a little better than I had been the last week.  Thank you Lord for giving me strength today so I can finally accomplish some of the little things I have had to put off for a bit.  

As I was going about my Sunday - trying to get things done, I came across an email from YouTube from an unknown subscriber.  They left a comment on one of my Halloween tutorial videos... "Stop pretending you are a makeup artist, you suck!"  At first - I was bummed... then I stopped and remembered a quote that my Kim Kardashian said and I let it go.  She is one of my favorite icons, not only for her beauty but her sense of style and business worth.  So - while I'm no Kim K., I know what my worth is and no matter what... I will hold my head up high.
Wishing you all a wonderful Sunday. 
 
Well, let me start off by saying... I haven't logged into my Influenster account in a while.  I was kind of on hiatus for a little while after I received an email from Influenster telling me that I qualified for one of their boxes... only to not hear back from them in months.  When I wrote them several times to find out what had happened, I didn't get any responses - until I tracked them down via twitter and facebook and I was then informed that they did not ship to Hawaii and that is the reason why I didn't receive any correspondence from them in over 2 months and didn't get my box either.  

Last week, a friend of mine had said that Influenster had a new look and that they were actually making it a lot more fun to earn badges.  I spent about 30 minutes going through the new site and checking out what they had to offer.  I was able to get a bunch of Expert Badges (but now I'm stuck and can't even obtain a beauty badge)... so I'm at a stand still once again.  Hmmm...  can't say I have much more of anything to discuss.

While the new site seems like it is pretty cool and much easier to maneuver - I have contacted the company several times to ask if they have finally decided to send to Hawaii (which is a part of the U.S. I might add) and I have yet to receive any response from them.  But - I guess I'll try from time to time to keep up with earning more badges and see if my work will actually pay off this time.
 
I am a huge believer in supporting Charities and Awareness of important things.  As I did with I-Candy Couture last year, this year - ICC has gone pink once again to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  While ICC is supporting a few Charities this month and celebrating Halloween as well, with any purchase from I-Candy Couture that includes at least one pink item, you can use code: PINKMADNESS and receive 15% off of your purchase.  A portion of all pink sales will be donated to Breast Cancer Research at the end of the month.

Also - to STOP BULLING and in support of No Bulling Awareness Month, I-Candy Couture is also going to be donating a portion of this month's sales to the National Suicide Prevention.  
 
Each Year - Allure awards various products for their Best of Beauty Awards.  This year - a list of wonderful products have been awarded - one of my favorites being the Original Naked Palette.  

This will be a short post - but the list has been posted and I wanted to share them with you.  Many of my favorites are on that list... here are some of my favorites that I have tried and that I stand behind, I would love to hear if your favorite products have made the list.

Eyes:
Urban Decay - Original Naked Palette
L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes - Waterproof Mascara

Cheap Thrills:
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes
Caress Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating Body Wash

Base:
L'Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Powder

Tools:
MAC 187 - Duo Fiber Brush
Tweezerman Slant Tweezers

To see if your favorites made the cut - click here and check it out.
 
Everyone knows that beauty trends come and go and the BB cream has taken the world by storm.  Now - with the BB Cream still a constant on everyone's mind - TotalBeauty.com states that there is word among the heavy Beauty hitters that there is another hot skin care trend coming out of Asia, called The CC Cream.   CC Cream stands for Color Correcting Cream, which will be designed to do just that.  

Now - let me be honest, I haven't yet jumped on the BB Cream wagon yet.  While I have thought and researched a little about it - I still haven't quite convinced myself that I am ready or that I really want to invest in another "fad" product.  I've been pretty intrigued by what some people have been saying about BB Creams - but I am not a foundation wearer any longer - not like I used to be, so it just hasn't interested me enough to go out and buy some.  I been working on my skin and so far I'm liking the results from the newly breathable skin care routine I've taken. 

Total Beauty's website states that while the CC cream is still new and not widely discussed yet, Olay has won the metaphorical race and launched the first one in October.  Shortly thereafter, many companies will be jumping at the opportunity and by 2013 you should see a very large roll out of these creams in the coming new year.  

Read more about the CC Cream info that Total Beauty has provided via their investigations here: http://www.totalbeauty.com/content/gallery/cc-cream  and see for yourself what you can look forward to in the coming months.
 
Does this mean there is no more calling the 800 number to place an order?  Well, this makes it so much easier to be able to get these awesome products from MAC via their website.  I haven't purchased many MAC products in a few years and have discontinued using their face products due to the break outs I received as well as my clients... but this is awesome that I can get my panned products like eye shadows and these beautiful palettes online.  Yay!
 
So - today was a little different than my normal Mondays.  Usually - I get up and start answering emails and then get orders packaged... but last night I went to bed not feeling so great and today I woke up even worst.  I decided it was going to be a chill day with no work. Well, maybe some computer work - but that was it.

I spent most of the day listening to some old school music and watching the videos to these songs on youtube.  While it's not really old school - it's still some jams that I love to listen to time and time again.  Here is one of them for your viewing/listening pleasure.
That song is one of my favorites... while some of the language is not ideal - I love the story line behind it.  No - I'm not planning to rob a house with my hubby, but Bonnie and Clyde is more than just a bunch of robbers... they were actually real life lovers.  Ride or Die!

So - it was leftover night tonight... we had mac and cheese (homemade of course).  You can find the recipe to my special homemade mac and cheese here on my blog. :)

Oh - I also shared my hair with everyone today and how it came out.  Here are a few photos.
The photo below was posted on my Instagram today.  It shows the products I used and my original hair before coloring on the left side and my hair now, after the color on the right.  The "after" picture was taken indoors and shows what my hair looks like indoors... a purplish burgundy color.  It's dark and rich and pretty.  
The photo above shows my hair in the sunlight.  While this photo still does not capture the true color - it shows how bright and red my hair is in the sun - it's not as purple in the sun but more pinkish/raspberry.  It is truly bright and I love it both ways - it came out great.
So besides lounging around the house being a lazy body and trying to nurse my sickness and asthma away... I've been spending time with my kiddos and just hanging out.  I hate when my asthma kicks in because I get really weak and don't feel great at all.  I can say this much though... at least I found some time to blog.  I am hoping that I can get my blogging and vlogging done more often - I've been slacking tremendously and it's been so crazy.  But, I-Candy Couture has been super duper busy and its been keeping me on my toes and has me running around like a mad man.  I seriously need to start taking some vitamin c tablets because I think all of this overtime of work and then running around with errands can put a strain on my body.

Oh well... tomorrow's a new day.  Wishing you all a wonderful week!
 
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I had a few errands to run yesterday and since Hawaii doesn't really experience many seasons... it's still super duper warm, hot and humid here.  I decided I wanted to go with a look that did not require a lot of time to create but that still had a pop of color and was wearable for me to go out into the Mall and stores with.  

I took my sons out and we went to our shopping mall and ate some ice cream in the cone and had a late lunch together.  As I mentioned, it was super hot and I was glad I dressed light and comfortable without heavy makeup.  This photo was taken after we returned home from our little outing... so I have had my makeup on for about 5 hours.

FOTD 10/13/12:  For this look I am using I-Candy Couture's Eye Shadows in: Sweet Nothings (used in the crease as my transition color and crease color), Vanilla (used on the lid and as my highlight color), Eclipse (used in my outer v area to deepen up my crease for some added dimension) and Lollipop lovin (used on the lower lash line for my signature pop of color).   For eyeliner I am using a combination of my Milani Pencil liner (waterline) and ELF Liquid liner (top liner).

On my lips... a light blend of Barbie Pink lipstick from I-Candy Couture was applied and then blotted to leave a stain.  This allowed my lips to have a sweet pink look but not such a bright opaque color that Barbie Pink lipstick achieves.

For my Accessories, I wanted to use something that would still be stylish and would not be constantly in my way.  I had arm candy on - but for some reason, I didn't take a photo of it.  I am also wearing I-Candy Couture's Signature Twisted Woven Hoops in Black.  I am also sporting one of my favorite contacts from Candy Color Lenses called the Avatar 3 Amethyst lenses.   

xoxo
Honey

 
A few days ago... I posted this on my Facebook Page, since I am doing everything in my power to take a stand against Bullying: 

"I had such a sad "bullying" story shared with me today and I've been wondering if I am going to share it or not and have decided to after getting approval from the person who told it to me. This lovely lady is a part of one of the Makeup Artist Groups here on Facebook and she is fairly new at doing makeup. She posted a picture in the group of the makeup she did on herself in hopes to get "constructive criticism and ideas on how she could improve." Her photo was bashed left and right and instead of people telling her how she could do something or suggest ideas, people called her ugly, said she had no business doing makeup and that her cut crease was terrible. She was also told that she could not make it in the makeup industry unless she knew how to do a proper cut crease and that she needed to learn how to blend properly, saying that her work was "Whack!". This poor lady didn't say she wanted to be in the industry - she just asked for some help. 

As a working Makeup Artist who is Certified, let me start off by saying that YOU DO NOT NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DO A CUT CREASE IN ORDER TO BE IN THE INDUSTRY. Also - Why would you tear someone to pieces when she is asking for help. Suggestions could have been made - sending her in the direction that would help her learn better techniques. Furthermore, calling someone ugly and saying her work is terrible is yet another form of bullying. It hurts a person's feelings. Everyone needs to start somewhere and learn by example and by being taught. This story literally brought me to tears. No one should have to go through that. We are all here to network, not tear each other down."


Even after typing it all out and going over it in my head again and again - it still does not sit well with me or my heart.  As I mentioned before... bullying is turning into a new type of plague... taking over in large heaps and raising havoc among everyone involved.  I work so hard to teach my children that this is not only uncalled for, not needed, morally wrong but that it hurts.  I'm so lucky to have wonderful children and my eldest son truly is a great leader and teacher to his older brothers.

Bullying in any form is wrong - whether in person or via the internet.  Those of you that have followed my sites for a while know that I have been consistently bullied by a lady who owns a pretty popular Indie Cosmetic Company.  At one time, we were friends... but because of a falling out - she has done anything to break my spirit and make me feel like I'm worthless.   She has sent her bully friends and family members to my page consistently to torment me and comment on my photos and she continues to harass me by stealing designs that I have worked so hard to create and make them herself, even if I have already copyrighted them.   And, after a year... she still manages to torment and harass me by doing it herself or by sending others to aid in the harassment.  But, she has no choice but to keep doing it... because through it all, as much as it can irritate me, I have a strong enough will to know that what I do is wonderful and I am a great person, she has not and will not ever get the best of me.  But, I'm also lucky because I have a family support system that encourages and supports me, because they know my worth - not because they are intimidated to do so.  I have an awesome Husband and sons. <3

In short... I know I got into more detail than I wanted to...  bullying is not easily dealt with, especially if you are the one being bullied.  Know that there are people out there that love you and that support you.  Hurtful words are mean and crude, they do exactly as they are supposed to do - hurt you.  But, if you do your best to ignore it or tell someone you are being bullied, maybe that can make a difference.  Just know - that if you are reading this and you are experiencing Bullying and need someone to talk to - while I may not know you, I am here.  There are support groups that are here as well.  DON'T EVER THINK THAT YOU DESERVE TO BE BULLIED.  Know your worth... know that you are wonderful and awesome and if all else fails, know that you have a friend in me should you ever need it.  Take a stand against bullying and promise to not take part in it and promise to not let it happen.  Together, we can all make a difference!

xoxo
<3 ~Honey
 
I love Masquerade Balls... and have been wanting to do this type of makeup look for quite a while - I just didn't have the time to devote to it.  My hubby was off from work that day - so I got started and while it did take me over an hour - I did speed up my video to save on some time while you're watching :) 
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This Masquerade Mask look was done using I-Candy Couture cosmetics in: 
  • Happy Thoughts (used to blend over the white to give the white cream makeup dimension since Happy Thoughts is a Duo chrome), 
  • Epic and The black hole (used on the eyes)
  • Ever After and The Hammer (used to add dimension and shadowing to the border of the mask)
  • Dollface lipgloss (on the lips for that pretty pop of color that ties it all together) 

The contacts in this look are from CandyColorLenses and are the Avatar 3 Ameythyst lenses, my absolute favorites. 

The accessories in this look can also be found at www.i-candycouture.com.  The white rose stud earrings are a very popular seller at I-Candy Couture and the Pearl necklace was strung by me with faux pearl beads. 

Check out the Video Tutorial below.  In the tutorial - my camera died before I got a chance to film putting on the feathers.  To do so - I used spirit gum and applied the spirit gum to each feather individually and then stuck it to my forehead beneath the "scrapbook" cut out.  I also took one of those scrapbook cutouts that I used on each of my temples and applied that in front of the feathers to cover part of the plume. :)

 
My sons like Disney Channel and tonight, while they were watching, a new show aired, called Girl vs. Monster.  There's a part in the show where Olivia Holt sings the song Fearless (I embedded the video below).  I felt really inspired and decided to find the video and write about it.

If you've been following my blog or YouTube Channel, or even follow me on Facebook, I'm sure that you have seen some of my posts about a Big Bully that has been trying to torment me through the internet.  It's been a year since it all started and I have taken it in stride as much as I possibly could. But, now... I'm just going to let it go.  YOU HAVE NO POWER OVER ME, I'M FEARLESS!  I know that God has blessed me tremendously and continues to bless me.  I truly am a lucky person.   Celebrities wear my handmade items and my company is doing awesome.  I'm just not going to let it bother me anymore... I know, I'm better than this.  

All of this started because the Beauty Industry truly is not only competitive but cut throat and while I like to always reach out and help the other person... I need to realize that while I'm helping them, that doesn't mean that they feel the same way.  In my heart - I know that I am and always have been the truthful person... but it really doesn't matter anymore.  "You don't get the best of me...  I'm stuck in your head, right back from the dead, Got you running scared... I'm Fearless!"  So, from now on... I'm not giving you my time any longer - YOU'RE NOT WORTH IT.
 
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I tag all of you :) If you do this tag - leave it as a video response so I can watch it too :)

QUESTIONS: 
1.How many hours a week do you spend filming/ editing videos?
2. are you a spender or a saver?
3. When is it easiest for you to film?
4.what makes talking in front of the camera comfortable for you?
5.what's your worst makeup/ hair habit?
6. One quote that you wish the world would live by?
7. How long do you spend getting ready everyday?
8. Your favourite video on youtube?
9. A youtuber that you watch who deserves more views/ subscribers than they have?
10.One thing your excited about in the upcoming year?
11.your most awkward filming moment?
12.How long does it take you to prep for a video?
13. are you wearing pants(jeans/skirt) right now or are you actually wearing pajama bottoms? 
14.What are you most proud of in your life?

 
Although Summer has come to an end... dips are still my favorite food to help keep my hunger in check.  While this particular dip may not be the most healthiest... it certainly does not lack in the flavor department.  I love Spinach and Artichoke Dip and found myself purchasing the premade one from my local deli quite often.  But - I decided it was time to make my own and that's how my famous and easily created recipe came about.  The ingredients are affordable if found on sale and the quantity made is enough to take to those awesome Holiday Pot luck parties.  Just pick up a bag of chips and you're ready to go. :) Because of the colors of this dip - it would also make a great appetizer for Halloween Parties too :) I've been asked to film a Video Tutorial on my Spinach/Artichoke dip many times... but I always forget.  This time, I took photos of each step so that it would be a Blog tutorial.  
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Ingredients:
  • 1 - 8oz Package of Cream Cheese - make sure it is soft.
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic (I like to use from the jar, fresh garlic will work.  If you use fresh garlic, you will need approximately one clove.
  • Garlic Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 - 12oz can of artichoke hearts.  Drain them from the liquid and chop to the size that you want.
  • 1 - 1/2 cup to 1 cup frozen spinach.  I usually buy the box spinach and use the whole box.  Thaw and drain liquid prior to use.
  • 1/4 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.  

Directions:
  • Pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees F.  Make sure to have a baking dish ready.  Lightly grease or spray down with Pam to ensure your dip and cheeses do not stick.
  • In a Medium Sized bow (I use my mixing bow) combine the following ingredients:  Cream Cheese, Mayonnaise, Parmesan Cheese, Romano Cheese, Minced Garlic, Garlic Salt and Pepper. 
  • Once all of those ingredients are combined, slowly and gently stir in your artichoke hears and your spinach.  You must stir and combine is gently or it can will lose some of the body of those products.
  • Transfer your mixture to your prepared baking dish.  
  • Top off the dip with your mozzarella cheese.  Bake your creation in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned.
I hope you enjoy this awesome recipe.  It is one of my favorite dishes to make.  I apologize for the quality as I was rushing and took the photos with my phone. :) If you recreate this recipe, I would love to hear all about it.  You can adjust or omit ingredients as you feel the need.  Mayonnaise was added to this recipe because it makes the cheese creamier, but if you really needed to - you could remove it.  You will, however - notice the difference if you do.  Enjoy and happy eating.
xoxo
Honey
 
Ingredients needed:

8 oz box of elbow macaroni pasta
Garlic Powder or Garlic Salt to Taste
Onion Powder to taste
Ground Nutmeg - approximately 1/4 - 1/2 a teaspoon
1 - 12oz can of Evaporated Milk (regular milk is okay)
1 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup finely grated or shredded Parmesan Regiano 
6-8 strips of chopped Bacon (cooked bacon only)
1 - 2 tablespoons sliced/chopped Chives or Green Onions for Garnish
Directions:
  • Boil salted water and follow directions on the Macaroni Pasta package.   Make sure to cook your macaroni to al dente.  Drain the macaroni and keep in the same pot and return to stove.
  • Add evaporated milk and allow the milk to warm up.  
  • Add spices to the macaroni and stir in well so that there are no clumps.  Make sure it is combined and mixed in properly.  If you would like, you can also mix the spices together first and then add to the pasta to ensure that all spices are combined properly.
  • Once spices are combined nicely - add in your cheese a little at a time, I usually use a handful at a time.  Start with the Sharp Cheddar Cheese, stirring softly to ensure that you are not smashing the macaroni.  Next add in the Parmesan Cheese and then the Mozzarella Cheese.  Stir until melted and smooth.  
  • Add chopped bacon (make sure it is cooked, I like to use Ready Bacon) and still into your Mac & Cheese nicely.
  • Serve up your macaroni and cheese with a sprinkle of chives or green onion on top for garnish and a little flavor and Enjoy!

Hope you like this recipe.  I have tried many Mac & Cheese recipes but I decided I needed to come up with my own. This one worked well and it is super delish and a wonderful comfort food.

xoxo
Honey
 
Recently, I was asked by a friend what would be something that she could use to help brighten  her skin.  I immediately thought of one of my favorite natural remedies and favorite ingredients... Lemons.  Since I don't think I have wrote or blogged about this before... I figured I would share this in a post and maybe do a video on it later. :)  Lemons are definitely an awesome fruit, with more uses than most people realize.  
Lemons are one of my favorite ingredients in some of my favorite pasta dishes and one of my favorite drinks are made with Lemons... lemonade.  But did you know that this tart and bright yellow fruit has so many uses for your skin as well as dietary uses.  Lemons have natural skin lightening properties and have been incorporated into cosmetics for years, centuries even.  Lemon is used widely to refresh and lighten your skin as well as tone your skin and help you to fade brown spots due to heavy sun exposure.  Looking to perk up your dull complexion, take  a lemon juice and rub it on to help mildly and safely bleach your skin for a brighter look.

Lemon is full of Vitamin C - which is an antioxidant that will help with free radicals, as well as an awesome anti-inflammatory.  It has antibacterial and antiviral properties that are awesome for anyone - which is why you may find the ingredient in many things like Airborne, etc.  Lemon juice also contains natural occurring substances called alpha-hydroxy acid which are commonly used in skin care products today.

Are you looking to brighten your skin, give it a little refreshment and add a little glow?  Well, here is what I do...  I take a little lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best, I only use concentrate if I really have to) and apply to your skin using a cotton ball.  I only apply it one time a day at the most, but I have been told that you could use it up to 2x a day.  To see results, you should use the treatment consistently for about six to eight weeks.  I suggest this treatment to brides that are looking for a safe, quick and affordable way to brighten their skin.  However, I suggest that they start this regimen at least 2 1/2 months before their wedding day.  I also suggest you try out the lemon juice on a small portion of your skin prior to use to do an allergy test.  This way - if it causes any redness or irritation - you can wash it off and discontinue use. 

There are some precautions you will want to take when using a Lemon Regimen for brightening   your skin.  Lemon juice can and will increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight.  Because of this - please wait for the lemon juice to dry on your skin before you go outside.  I like to apply it at night - about an hour before I hit the sheets so that it is dry and has soaked into my skin properly.  

Another trick is if you are feeling like your skin looks a little dull, but you want a bright complexion right then and now... use a Foundation brush and take some Fresh lemon juice and apply with the foundation brush.  Let dry and then go about your normal routine.  You will notice instantly that your skin did absorb the lemon juice well and for that time being - you will have a little brighter complexion.  Those quick fixes should not be done often however, so if you want long term results - keep to the regimen I outlined above.   

The lemon juice and also help with dark spots.  You would use the same type of regimen and treat the areas needed. Another favorite is to take half of a lemon and take the inside of the lemon and rub it on your dry areas like your elbows, knees and ankles/heels.  If you have ever cut a lemon or cooked with it before, you will feel that Lemon has a slight oily feeling to it.  This awesome oil/citrus is perfect for moisturizing your dry skin but it also has all that goodness included in the lemon that will help to exfoliate, re-hydrate and slosh away all the dead skin.  It is such an awesome fruit and definitely a lot more affordable than a Professional Skin Care treatment that can run you hundreds of dollars.  Take pictures at the beginning and end of your regimen to see how you like it. :)

Hope these little tips and DIY helps. 
xoxo
Honey


FTC/Disclaimer:  I am not a professional in skin care treatment and regimens.  This post was developed and made by me to help and everything discussed is my own opinion.  I am not and will not be held liable for any problems resulting in anyone trying out this regimen.  You are at your own risk.  Please do your research prior to use.
 
I had the privilege of seeing another beautiful sunset from my living room window this evening. I'm so lucky to live in Hawaii and witness so much of Mother Nature's many wonders.  I'm very lucky to have such a view each evening. 

 Wanted to share a little inspiration with all of you for the evening. I-Candy Couture and my Facebook Page has been "Taking a Stand" against Bullying and taking part in Anti Bullying Month.  Because of this - I have had many of my likers, subscribers and so much more share their bullying stories with me.  Some of them didn't share it on purpose, but started talking to me about how they wanted to help.  The last few days have left me in tears, reading comments and emails where others express their bullying story with me.  I want you all to know that I do not condone Bullying in anyway and as a part - I whole heartily believe that as adults, we lead by example.   To those of you who have experienced Bullying in one form or another, I am here for you and if you need anyone to talk to - even if it is just to cry, do not ever hesitate to reach out to me.  

"Remember, that you are Special, Unique, Beautiful and Awesome. There is no one like You. Don't let the Bullies of life get you down."
xoxo 
♥ ~Honey
 
I had been planning to do this type of look for several month now, gathering supplies that I thought would be awesome for this look.  I really wanted to focus my Halloween looks this year on things that are whimsical and enchanting and being from Hawaii where the oceans are blue and pristine, I thought a mermaid would be a perfect choice.  I have always been intrigued by Fairies and Mermaids my entire life... so since I am doing a Pixie/Mermaid Tutorial, I thought this was the perfect fit.   I was super stoked to also get some awesome Contacts from Candycolorlenses.com.  The contacts I am using are the Azalea Green contacts.  They are gorgeous and while the camera didn't quite pick it up - they have beautiful little designs of flowers in them, beautiful.  You can get some awesome Crazy lenses for your Halloween looks at Candycolorlenses.com - use Code: DESTNE146 at checkout on your order of $20 or more and receive a 10% discount.
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Products Used:
Primer / Bases - Coastal Scents Primer and NYX Jumbo Eye Shadow Base in Milk.  Maybelline Color Tattoo in Tenacious Teal

Shadows:
I-Candy Couture Eye Shadows in the following colors - 
Mermaid Serenade
Just Keep Swimming
To Infinity
Forest Love
Colors of the Wind
Epik
Happy Thoughts

Eyeliner / Pencil liners:  ELF Liquid Liner (lash line), NYC pencil liner in Teal, Urban Decay 24/7 liner in Mildew, Milani Liquif'eye Pencil in Black

Glitter Liners from NYX - Green, Blue and Purple

Mascara - Maybelline Plush Lash Mascara

Lashes - Red Cherry Lashes, sorry - I threw away the packaging and forgot what number it was :(

The Blue jewel was from a pack of assorted jewels with adhesive on the back from Walmart's craft section.

Lipstick:  Ooh Baby! from I-Candy Couture

Although that part cut out in the video, I wanted to state that I went back in and blended out the glitter so it wasn't harsh dots but had a nice glitter affect.  I also pulled the fish net back over my head and dabbed in some NYX White Eye Shadow base and over that I went with I-Candy Couture's Eye Shadow in Happy Thoughts.  Happy Thoughts is a duo chrome iridescent and has purple and pink iridescent when used over a white or black base, so I thought this was perfect to make the scales look more like scales and to bring out the pretty look that fish have.  If any of you have read the book "Rainbow Fish" to your children, you know what I'm talking about. :)  I also blended out the NYX glitter that I applied as dots - not on purpose though - it was a mistake.  I pulled the fish net stocking back over my head and it smeared... but I like the effect it gave. It looked a lot more natural.  

I hope you guys like the tutorial.  I posted more photos so you could see. I Chroma-keyed in an ocean background for an added twist and added a beautiful Plumeria to my ear.  Since I'm from Hawaii and it was a Hawaiian mermaid look - I figured, what more says a Hawaiian Maiden like a pua (flower) in the ear.  Enjoy and thank you for watching and reading!  Video tutorial is below.
xoxo
Honey
 
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Forest Nymph / Pixie look I created was originally supposed to be something easy to recreate and fast for those in a hurry.  I originally had filmed the look while I was applying the makeup, but midway through I applied my NYX Glitter Liner and the glitter got into my eye.  It cause my eyes to tear so bad that I had to start all over again because my makeup was running down my cheek :(  So - I redid the look as quickly as I could - this time, I didn't have the camera on (I forgot to film it).  It didn't come out the way I wanted it to, my design was less detailed than I had it previously and I wasn't happy with it - but I decided to take a picture and post it anyway.

Products used: I-Candy Couture's eyeshadows in Forest Nymph, Forest Love, Man of Iron and Smash were all applied on the Lid and eyes.  I then took a combination of Smash and Forest Nymph and slowly blended it onto my temples and down the side of my face down towards my cheeks.  I used my NYX Jumbo Eye Shadow pencils in a variety of colors to color in the little flowers on both sides of my face and used a black eye liner pencil to line and fill in my eyebrows to give it a darker and more dramatic look.  I applied I-Candy Couture's "Naked in Tahiti" Lip gloss on my lips and since I wanted it to be sheer and neutral, I did not build the color up.   While it may not be as noticeable here in the photo, I used my NYC Sunny Bronzer to contour down the side of my nose to make it a tad bit pointy and used a little bit of I-Candy Couture's Cupid Eye Shadow to add a little golden highlight on the bridge of my nose and along parts of my cheeks.  I also blended in Man of Iron Eye Shadow from ICC onto the sides of my face to give it a little golden glow.  Like I mentioned before, I do not have a tutorial for this - but I will be filming something similar with a different twist in the next week or so.  The next look will be more of what I was working towards when I created this look and had to start over again.  Lesson learned on my end... instead of starting again, just take it off and wait a few days because that way you are not rushing and lose your muse and ideas along the way.  Either way - while this was not the look I had been going for... I'm pretty happy with it considering I through it together quickly.  I especially love the eyes... they came out great. :)



The earrings I am wearing in this look are I-Candy Couture's Signature and Copyrighted Twisted Woven Hoops with Candy Bling woven into them.


Hope you liked it!
xoxo
Honey

 
Products Used:
Two Faced Shadow Insurance
I-Candy Couture Eye Shadows in - Hawaiian Hunny, Epik, Gingerbread, Trax, Golden Beauty and Miss Aloha
Wet n Wild Vanity Palette (the matte brown middle shade)
Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Perversian and Milani Eye Tech Extreme Liner
Lips - Think Pink Lipstick from Wet n Wild and Hula Girl Lipgloss from I-Candy Couture.

Earrings worn are also from I-Candy Couture.

Check out the tutorial below where I talk about each step. :)