Articles by Noodle & Boo

by The Nancys

33.  You will never find anybody who can give you a clear and compelling reason why we observe daylight savings time.
34.  You should never say anything to a woman that even remotely suggests that you think she is pregnant unless you can see an actual baby emerging from her at that moment.
35.  There comes a time when you should stop expecting other people to make a big deal about your birthday. That time is age 11.
36.  The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we all believe that we are above average drivers.
37.  A person who is nice to you, but rude to the waiter, is not a nice person. (This is very important. Pay attention. It never fails.)
38.  Your friends love you anyway.
39.  Thought for the day: Never be afraid to try something new.
40.  Remember that a lone amateur built the Ark. A large group of professionals built the Titanic

Have a wonderful weekend!

by The Nancys

25.  It ain’t the jeans that make your butt look fat.
26.  If you had to identify, in one word, the reason why the human race has not achieved — and never will achieve — its full potential, that word would be “meetings.”
27.  There is a very fine line between “hobby” and “mental illness.”
28.  People who want to share their religious views with you almost never want you to share yours with them.
29.  You should not confuse your career with your life.
30.  Nobody cares if you can not dance well. Just get up and dance.
31.  Never lick a steak knife.
32.  The most destructive force in the universe is gossip.

Tomorrow:  Facts of Life 33 - 40!

 by The Nancys

17. Middle age is when broadness of the mind and narrowness of the waist change places.
18. Opportunities always look bigger going than coming.
19. Junk is something you have kept for years and throw away three weeks before you need it.
20. There is always one more imbecile than you counted on.
21. Experience is a wonderful thing. It enables you to recognize a mistake when you make it again.
22. By the time you can make ends meet, they move the ends.
23. Thou shalt not weigh more than thy refrigerator.
24. Someone who thinks logically provides a nice contrast to the real world.

Tomorrow: Facts of Life 25 - 32!

 by The Nancys

9.    For every action, there is an equal and opposite government program.
10.  If you do not look like your passport picture, you probably need the trip.
11.  Bills travel through the mail at twice the speed of checks.
12.  A conscience is what hurts when all of your other parts feel so good.
13.  Eat well, stay fit, die anyway.
14.  Men are from earth. Women are from earth. Deal with it.
15.  No man has ever been shot while doing the dishes.
16.  A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand.

Tomorrow: Facts of Life 17 - 24!

By Sarah Skarda 

It is so important to groom and shape your brows. The way your brows look will affect the overall image of your eyes and face. Not to mention, your brows are the external expressions of your individual personality and tell stories on their own.

One fact to remember is that your brows are “sisters not twins.” You may be able to get your brows to look pretty darn close to identical but not totally and that’s okay. This is what makes people so unique and beautiful in their way. As a make-up artist, I have come to believe that flaws and slight imperfections give each one of us our distinctly different beauty.

First, clean and shape your brows. If you are not comfortable tweezing your own brows, your local beauty shop can do it for you. Remember, a thicker brow will tend to make you look younger. Shaping your brow creates an outline, which you can fill in with color. Cleaning up under your brow will open up the eye dramatically. Comfort tip: after your brows are shaped they may be red and a bit sore so fold up and place an Ultimate Cleansing Cloth by Noodle & Boo on your brow bone to cool and soothe the skin.

Next, find a color match for your brow and make sure you are comfortable with the color. I prefer to use a powder brow color vs. a creamy brow pencil. Powder lasts longer and doesn’t smear as easy. Also, I like using the small angle brush that is needed when applying a powder brow color because I can manipulate the movements easier, placement is more precise and the brush produces a truly natural look. It is more difficult to do these techniques with a pencil.

When you place the color, start in the heavier bottom side of your brow, which is closest to your nose. Place color first by gently laying the brush flat on your skin and tap in the natural direction following your brow, then swipe to blend so you won’t be left with dark blotchy spots of color. I prefer to have the color fade lighter as it reaches upward towards the forehead area, again for a natural look. Add color slowly until you reach the intensity desired. If you add too much color, simply take a clean brow brush and brush out excess color. This is another reason to use powder; it’s more forgiving than a pencil if you add too much color.

Lastly, set your brow with a brow gel to keep the hair in place. There is a large brow gel collection to choose from in the cosmetic market today, just inquire about a brow gel with your favorite cosmetic line.

Happiness is having natural brows which define your unique look!

by The Nancys

1.  Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.
2.  Don’t worry about what people think. They do not do it very often.
3.  Going to church does not make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.
4.  Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity.
5.  If you must choose between two evils, pick the one you have never tried before.
6.  My idea of housework is to sweep the room with a glance.
7.  Not one shred of evidence supports the notion that life is serious.
8.  It is easier to get forgiveness than permission.

Tomorrow: Facts of Life 9 - 16! 

 by The Nancys

Myth 6: “It” has to be Perfect
Perfection in everything we do is an admirable but unrealistic goal. It becomes so focused on getting every detail right that we lose sight of the bigger picture and lose all the joy in the effort.

A perfect party, for example, is about friends enjoying each others’ company. If you focus on the fun, rather than worrying that someone might realize that there is a speck or two of dust, you’ll be much more relaxed and a better hostess. Strive for doing the best you can, not perfection.

Myth 7: Good Women Put Themselves Last
One of the values many of us were taught is that we put the needs of other before our own. The problem is, that when we put our own needs last, we do not take the time we need to recharge ourselves, which makes us less able to do for others.

Being happy, fulfilled and energetic enables us to be there for others in our lives. Do not waste time feeling guilty about taking time just for you. It will make you, and those around you, much happier.

Myth 8: All Activities Require a Companion
So many women miss out on things they would love to do, because they do not have someone to join them so they stay home, rather than going alone. While some activities may be more enjoyable when shared, there is a lot to be said for enjoying things on your own.

Do not miss out on something you want to do, just because you do not have a friend available to go with you. Enjoy what you love, with or without a companion.

Myth 9: Getting Lost is Bad
Getting lost is a very stressful experience for most of us. We are determined to reach our goal and any deviation makes us fume. Getting lost, though, can lead to great adventures and new experiences.

Rather than fuming when you lose your way, enjoy the scenery. Rather than giving in to frustration, look at it as an opportunity to visit somewhere you have never been. And remember the old saying: “We don’t know where we’re going, but we’re making good time!”

Myth 10: Women Have to Work Harder than Men
For years, women believed they had to work longer hours than their male counterparts thinking that coming in early, staying late and taking on extra work would further their careers. Rather than working more, try working smarter. Do not hesitate to take on high profile projects and look for opportunities to remind those in positions of authority of what you have accomplished. It is not bragging, its just good PR.

 by The Nancys

Myth 1: Busy Women Don’t Have Time for Spontaneity
Most of us are ruled by calendars. It is rare to have a few hours, let alone a whole day, that is not booked solid. Who has time for spontaneous fun, we have got work to do and errands to run. We are scheduled and stressed to the max.

Not making time for spontaneity, though, can suck much of the joy out of your life. Carve out an hour on your calendar for spontaneity. When the time comes, get the family and do something just for fun. Whether it is something you love or something you have never tried before, laugh and enjoy the time. Some of the best times are the ones that are not planned.

Myth 2: Mom is Responsible for the House
Dad’s are responsible for working and mom’s are responsible for raising the kids and taking care of the house. That was true in 1950. In this century, most mom’s are working outside the home and yet still feel responsible for the cleaning, cooking, laundry and other chores required to keep a home running.

Have a family meeting and outline what chores need to be done. Agree on chore assignments and the fact that everyone who lives in the home is responsible for maintaining it. Then, let everyone share the load. Could you make your son’s bed more neatly than your 5 year old? Sure, but does it really matter? He’s learning responsibility and it is one less job for you. Relax.

Myth 3: If You’re Smiling Too Much, You Must Not Understand the Situation
When the going gets tough, the tough…don’t smile. The reality, though, is that when things are really tough, that is when we need laughter the most. Humor is remarkably effective at reducing stress and helping to keep things in perspective.

When comforting a friend who has been dealt a serious blow, do not focus on the problem, but talk about positive things. Use gentle humor to lighten the mood. Do the same for yourself when you are the one with problems. The sun really will come up tomorrow. No matter what the problem, you will cope better with a smile.

Myth 4: Thin Equals Happy
Many of us assume that thin equals healthy and happy. Many of us waste a lot of time and create a considerable stress in trying to attain the perfect size. The problem is that the perfect size that nature dictates may not match the perfect size displayed in magazine ads. Rather than stressing over the fact that you are not a size two, focus your efforts on maintaining your health and loving your body, whatever size it is.

Myth 5: If We Really Try, We Can Have It All
Some women believe they have it all, with marriage, children, perfect home and career. The one thing missing is the time to enjoy it. But they are spread so thin they do not have time to enjoy their lives.

Perhaps a smaller home and less focus on career can allow more time to enjoy what you are working for. It is a difficult balancing act, but can be managed, if you are clear on priorities and stick to focusing on what is most important.

Tomorrow: Part 2!

By Sarah Skarda 

How you apply your make-up is just as important as the colors you choose to wear. Therefore, it is important to invest in quality make-up brushes that last for a long time and give you the look you want.

I love the professional make-up brushes by M•A•C. Their brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials. They feature birch, linden and ramin wood handles, nickel-plated brass ferrules. There are 5 staple brushes to own and are really easy to use.  They will have your make-up looking fabulous once you get the techniques down.

#129 Powder/Blush Brush: $34
All-purpose for blush or face powder. This brush is particularly good for a bronzer, blush or mineral powder application. The fibers are soft and form a full, rounded shape. To apply use light sweeping motions and add color gradually to the intensity that is desired.

#150 Powder/Bronzer Brush: $42
Full and dense for dusting loose or pressed powder on face or body. Also fun to use for applying bronzer or mineral powder for a lighter application than brush #129. Remember with the tighter binding and fuller, larger brushes there will be a softer application of color.

#266 Angle Brush: $19
For creating sharp, precise lines. This brush has fibers which are carefully arranged to form a perfect angle. This brush is wonderful for applying a powder eyeliner for a less dramatic look than pencil or cream liner or use it to apply color to your brows. I love powder liner because with my oily skin it won’t smear. Lightly place color from the end of the angle onto the lash line and add to the intensity desired. Be careful not to press to hard or you will get a thicker line.

#249 Large Shader Brush: $27
For applying and/or blending eye shadow. Paddle shaped, with a flat rounded tip. Synthetic: its soft fibres provides pro-quality pick-up and distribution of powder, liquid or cream products. This brush is great for applying concealer or cream shadows that are so popular now.

#224 Tapered Blending Brush: $28
For controlled eye shadow application. This brush has soft fibers which taper to form a medium size dome shape. This brush is for applying and blending with a soft touch (the harder you press the stronger the color) in a back and forth windshield wiper motion in the crease or a small circular motion across the eyelid to blend in shadow, especially great for dark colors in the crease.

BRUSH CARE: It is really important that you wash your brushes. Ideally once a week, but if your busy like me, I wash them once per month. Use a mild shampoo to wash your brushes, I like to use the Extra Gentle Shampoo by Noodle and Boo because it has a low surfactant system and it is conditioning (great for sable and synthetic hair brushes). It is also nice to have the mild and delightful scent around your face.

DIRECTIONS: Put a small amount of shampoo in the palm of your hand and wash brushes in a circular, back and forth motion to get the color out. Then rinse thoroughly with warm water, squeeze excess water out and lay flat to dry on a clean towel. It is so imperative make-up brushes lay flat because if you put them upright to dry the water will move downward into the wooden handle and loosen the binding which will loosen the hair causing the hair to shed on your face during application. Enjoy your investment and have fun applying make-up everyday!

 by The Nancys

# 6 Laugh!
You may not equate belly laughs with relaxation, but laughing reduces stress and makes you feel more relaxed. Find your commute raising your blood pressure? Put in a CD of your favorite comic.

Had a tough day at work and now the kids are cranky? Put in a funny movie you all can enjoy, like Shrek or Finding Nemo.

# 7 Do What You Love
It’s easy to get so caught up in day-to-day activities and responsibilities that we forget to do what we love. We put our dreams on hold , assuming that someday we’ll spend all our time doing what we love. Don’t wait, start incorporating the things you love in your daily activities.

Love music but don’t have time to practice? Make time! Perhaps you can form a family band, with the less musically inclined contributing with a tambourine. It may not be Carnegie Hall, but it will be fun and relaxing.

# 8 Breathe
Well, duh, we breathe everyday. To relax, though, be conscious of your breathing. Conscious breathing can be one of the fastest ways to relax, and it’s something you can do anywhere. Stuck in the world’s longest grocery line? Instead of fuming, breathe in through your nose for five seconds. Hold it for five seconds. Let it out through your mouth for five seconds.

Conscious breathing will distract you from an annoying situation and make you feel more relaxed.

# 9 Take a Thirty Second Vacation
A fast way to feel relaxed is to take a quick vacation. Visualize your favorite vacation spot. Love the beach? Close your eyes and visualize the scene. Focus on the details and different senses. The feel the warm, gritty sand on your feet. The sound of the waves hitting the shore. The smell of the salty air and sun lotion. The feeling of relaxation and well-being.

Take a deep breath and come back to reality. As you return, bring that feeling of relaxation with you, knowing you can return to that vacation spot anytime you’d like.

# 10 Celebrate and Appreciate
Studies have shown that people who keep a gratitude journal are generally happier. Whether you keep a journal or just spend a few minutes each day focusing on the positives in your life, you’ll feel happier and more relaxed.

The old advice to count your blessings really is a valuable tool to help you relax, feel less stressed and more contented.

by The Nancys

# 1 Build in “Do Not Disturb” Time
For thirty minutes each day, schedule time for no electronic interruptions. Don’t answer the telephone and don’t check or send email. For some of us “Crackberry” addicts, that can seem unimaginable, but you’ll find that even thirty minutes of uninterrupted time will enable you to accomplish more and feel less stressed.If you have little ones at home, try exchanging baby-sitting duties with a neighbor so that you can have thirty minutes to focus, without interruptions.

# 2 Be Here Now
Most busy women multi-task. Cleaning house while on the telephone and coaching the kids’ homework while preparing dinner. Try, instead, to be fully present while you do a single task. “Being here now,” fully aware of what you’re doing in the moment will quiet your mind and leave you more relaxed.

For example, while you’re chopping vegetables, allow your mind to drift. This brief mental vacation will recharge your batteries so that when you do work with the kids on their homework, you’ll feel less stressed and both you and the children will enjoy it more.

# 3 Manage Your “To Do” List
Each morning start your day by reviewing your “to do” list. Prioritize into “must do,” “nice to do” and “whenever I get to it.” If your “must dos” are more than you can manage in one day, consider alternatives. Can someone else take it on, or at least assist? Does it really have to be done today?

If an item has been languishing on your “when I get to it” list, take it off. Seeing it every day is just a reminder that will induce guilt and stress. When you’re really ready to do it, add it to the list and then just do it!

# 4 Re-examine Your Expectations
From the time we’re young, we’re programmed to do and be the best. Admirable, but very difficult to achieve. Yes, you want to be the best wife, best mother, best friend, best employee, best daughter, best housekeeper and the list goes on. Just for today, decide which aspect of your life needs the most attention and place your focus there.

Also, reexamine your “best of” list. Perhaps you shouldn’t attempt to be the “best housekeeper” and “best cook” while you have three kids under the age of five. For now, focus on being the best mom. Gourmet cooking and art on the walls that doesn’t involve crayons can come later.

# 5 Get Moving
Knowing you need to exercise more and not doing it doesn’t solve the problem and just increases your stress level. Instead, look at what you are doing and congratulate yourself. Holding a toddler on one hip while schlepping grocery bags? That counts as exercise!

Next, look for additional ways to add more calorie burning activities to your routine. Parking further away from your destination, ignoring elevators and taking the stairs, and going outside to play games instead of staying in are all ways to incorporate exercise in your day, while you reduce your stress level.

Tomorrow: Part 2!

Do you find that your daily showers produce dry, tight, itchy skin? You can do less and get great results. Use soap only on select areas of the body to avoid dryness. Unless you have really oily skin, because you are a teenager or have a job that exposes you to oils and gases, you do not need soap to get yourself clean. Pure water does the job. However, you do need to use soap on your face, under your arms, and in the groin area. As you get older, the use of soap on the rest of your body can unnecessarily dry your skin. The Sugar Mama Honey Bar is a favorite in our household. You can be a Sugar Daddy and love it too! Its high moisture formula does not leave skin dry and itchy. Unlike most soap on the market, its pH balance is complimentary to skin leaving it in a perfectly healthy condition. Yes, it works nicely as a face soap too! Follow with the Lovely Body Lotion (apply when skin is still damp) for an extra treat!

By Sarah Skarda 

There is a wonderful make-up line called “tarte” that is so fashionable with its packaging, tempting colors and product selection, not to mention the remarkable vitamin-enriched formulas!

“Tarte” is the talk among Hollywood Stars and can make you feel as glamorous as a star! Not to mention, it’s affordable! Tarte is one of my TOP picks for adding to your everyday look to make you feel gorgeous and chic! Every fashion forward gal has the top fabulous beauty products in her make-up bag so here is one from “Tarte” to add to your bag!

I recommend the airplane friendly Cheekstains ($28), which has 8 shades to choose from so you are “tickled” pink everyday! I love using the color “flush” for a natural sun kissed or bashful blushed look. Perfect for a fresh, new look especially with spring and summer around the corner. With cheekstains there is an alternative for applying blush, which does not require a brush.

Putting Cheekstains on is a self explanatory, virtually effortless application process, especially for an on-the-go beauty!

Happiness is looking beautiful everyday from “tarte” to finish!

It happens to all of us. We all know that we should wash our face before we go to bed; especially if we have make-up on. Yes there are those lucky few whose skin is beautiful whether or not they are religious about washing.

So, here’s a little shortcut for those nights when you need a fast, gentle face-wash so you can hop into bed lickety-split.

The Ultimate Cleansing Cloths were developed for the most sensitive baby skin, and also make a wonderful make-up remover. Extra thick cloths soaked in a no-rinse; hypoallergenic solution they are the perfect solution to clean your face before bedtime. Dermatologist-tested.

In addition to removing the dirt and oil that has accumulated over the day, gentle moisturizers will hydrate skin leaving it perfectly soft for the pillow that is calling your name.

There is no right or wrong answer when asked how often you should wash your hair. It comes down to what works for you. But, if you choose to skip a day, we have an excellent grooming tool for days between shampoos. The Conditioning Hair Polish was developed as a leave-in hair conditioner for children, but is becoming equally popular with our grown-up friends!

It works great on short hair, long hair, straight and curly hair. Because it is extra-light, it will not weigh down even the finest hair. It has a fresh, gentle fragrance that makes your hair smell like you just shampooed!

How do you use the Conditioning Hair Polish? Brush your hair. Spray a generous amount of polish on areas where you have “bed-head,” style as you normally would after shampooing. Your hair will benefit from the natural antioxidants and will look shiny too!

It’s alright if you want to share your Conditioning Hair Polish with the little ones in the house . . . everyone wakes up with “bed-head” or has a no-wash hair day from time to time. 

We must confess, we love People!  So, it is especially nice when they love us back!  Here is what they posted on their website:

We can’t think of anything more indulgent than relaxing in a long hot bath filled with our favorite products. Top picks for Valentine’s Day romance.

Celeb favorite Glowology by Noodle & Boo provides luxury in a bottle for sensitive skin. And the delicately scented Simply Divine bath set, $45, which contains bottles of Lovely Body Lotion and Heavenly Honey Wash, can’t help but leave you feeling uplifted.

Thank you People!!!

Think of it as a “spa night” for your hands. Noodle & Boo’s Glowology line has two products that when used together offer RELIEF for those painfully dry hands. You will need the Sugar Mama Honey Scrub and The Balm.

Before you go to bed, run warm water over your clean hands for a minute. Take a big scoop of the Sugar Mama Honey Scrub and let it melt in your palms. Gently rub your hands together for two or three minutes making sure to get between your fingers and around your cuticles. When the sugar is gone and your hands feel oily, rinse them with water and pat dry.

When hands are still moist apply The Balm generously to your hands. Go to bed. Wake up with wonderfully soft and supple hands. During the winter months, this is a wonderful bedtime ritual.

Leave a comment on any post this week and receive free samples of both the Sugar Mama Honey Scrub and The Balm. Be sure to e-mail chatterbox@noodleanboo.com your mailing address!

Sweet dreams until tomorrow . . . .

by Sarah Skarda  

When I was dating my now husband Tyler, I suggested that he use some face products to hydrate his skin for a better shave. Tyler’s immediate response was “only women do that stuff.”

NOT TRUE, unless you want to grow old with tattered skin. I informed him that men are jumping on the bandwagon to care for their skin these days. There is a product line specifically designed for men’s skincare needs called Anthony Logistics for Men which I think is great. I bought Tyler the Travel Kit ($35) to see how his skin would react before investing in the full sizes.

From my experience in the cosmetic world, most men adopt my husband’s pre-Sarah philosophy regarding skincare and really don’t know how to care for their skin. It seems men think they will be fine by washing their face with a regular bar of soap followed by a generic shaving cream, then a little after-shave and call it a day! WRONG!

Ladies, my advice is if you would like your man to have healthy, soft skin try buying him a pre-shave oil like the one by Anthony for their daily shaving routine. There is such a visible difference in Tyler’s skin just by using the Pre-Shave Oil ($20) AND the Facial Scrub” ($20). Tyler was sold and he has been a faithful customer using multiple products by the line ever since. His skin looks amazing thanks to Anthony!

Tyler and I also like that a portion of the proceeds go to a good cause! Anthony, is a man who saw there was a real need for men’s grooming products, and founded Anthony Logistics For Men. He donates a percentage of his proceeds to charities, which support the fight against prostrate cancer.

To read more about Anthony the founder, click here.

by Sarah Skarda

I am such a sucker for buying and trying the latest thing when it comes to beauty and pampering.

This summer my feet were really sore from standing all the time and running around after my babies. I was flipping through Shape and saw a YogaToes advertisement. They claimed that “it’s like doing yoga for your toes!”

Prompted by my overwhelming curiosity and my achy feet, I jumped online to order a pair. To my pleasant surprise . . . they worked!

YogaToes are wonderful not only for someone working on their feet all day, but for the person with chronic feet problems, the person who has to wear uncomfortable shoes to match their work attire or the mommy who runs after little ones all day. No matter how you get your sore feet, I suggest you try YogaToes.

Start your experience by giving yourself a foot-massage with The Balm by Noodle & Boo then follow by relaxing with YogaToes while you watch TV or read a book. You can even wear them in a warm bath or a hot tub, at work under your desk or in bed at night.

Happiness is happy feet . . .

by Sarah Skarda

I have to tell you about these wonderful panties . . . YES panties!!! My cousin turned me on to them and it was one of the BEST finds EVER. The panty brand is called “HANKY PANKY!”

Sometimes it hurts to look good, for example, when you find that awesome pair of “must have” designer pumps but suffer all night. Or that exquisite dress with spaghetti straps which leave you with a painful rope burn (true story about me). Oh, the stories that we diva’s could tell about the pain and suffering we went through to look HOT! Well ladies, you don’t have to compromise comfort or look when it comes to your panties AND they are sexy too!

Hanky Panky panties may seem a bit pricy (3 for $33 or $18-$40 each depending on the style) when compared to your average Victoria Secret panties (5 for $25) but Hanky Panky is worth every penny. They are seamless, feminine, sexy and won’t give you wedgies! I LOVE the color selection of Hanky Panky panties and the styles are made for every body shape, size, and personal preference. Also, check out Hanky Panky’s Camisole collection for a hot date night with your man or just to feel sexier knowing what you have on under your clothes!

You might also consider Noodle & Boo’s Afterglow Gel for firming and slimming to help keep you looking your best in your pretty panties!

Hanky Panky available at Neiman Marcus.

Happiness is a little Hanky Panky . . .

by Sarah Skarda

Like most women I have an ideal routine for my day, including a skin care regime. However, the reality of being able to keep my routine is not so predictable. I juggle so much in my day with two little ones, plus the always-wonderful unexpected events that come up. It seems like there will always be something I have to compromise. Usually, the “something” is my personal care.

On that note, the one step I cannot go without is applying my daily eye cream. I may not fit in the planned pedicure, but I will not sacrifice my “Eye Doctor” by Origins at a mere $28.50 (not bad when compared to other leading brands).

The eye area is so important to keep hydrated. There are no sweat or oil glands in the eye area so it is impossible to hydrate naturally, by drinking water. Like most gals, I want to grow old gracefully and I know I do have some control to make it happen! Since eyes “tell all,” eye skin care is critical.

The skin in the eye area is as thin as an eggshell. That is why it is very important to treat this area with the utmost care and gentleness. Too much pulling on your eye will wear out the elastin and in time your skin won’t bounce back. To apply your eye cream use your ring finger in a gentle tapping motion, in a C-like shape, from the brow bone down and under the eye on the highest point of your cheek bone. Also, wearing eye cream will noticeably improve the application and the payoff of your eye-shadow.

Happiness is taking time for your thirsty eyes . . .

Glowology’s The Balm is beautynewsnyc’s, beauty editor, Candice Sabatini’s choice for the perfect “hostess gift.” Here is what she had to say:

“While you’re giving thanks for the bounty, don’t forget to thank your hostess for working her fingers to the bone and for creating a fabulous feast. Even if she did only dial-for-dinner, she deserves a prezzy.

The Balm by Glowology smells as sweet as dessert and will soften her hands and feet with its blend of shea butter, sugar maple essence, orange and lemon.

Use your noodle and buy one for yourself also. It’s too delicious to want to give away!”

Available at Neiman Marcus, The Balm $26.00

Happiness is having someone cook (or order) for you . . .

Actually, these are a few of Sarah Skarda’s favorite things! Sarah is a freelance make-up artist (and mother to 2 beautiful little boys) who came up through the ranks at MAC Cosmetics and has always had wonderful suggestions in how to make even the most time-starved woman feel beautiful.

Here is what she had to say:

There are a few make-up staples that I cannot live without. I don’t have very much time but, like most gals, want to look as polished as possible. So, I have a “must have 3 list” for those who don’t have more than 5 minutes to apply make-up in the morning.

Number one! Find the “perfect bronzer” for your skin, not too orange and not too red. Red will give the skin a grayish payoff that will look dirty and the last thing you want is for someone to lick their finger and rub your cheek the way your mother used to in order to get dirt off your face! The bronzer I use for my skin tone and LOVE is Golden Bronzer by MAC. Bronzer gives that wonderful sun-kissed look but won’t make you too blushy or rosy. Apply bronzer with a large powder brush and stroke downward in small strokes towards the jaw on the cheek bone (no more of the 80’s streak line blushed look ladies). Also, apply in the T-zone and on the neck. Bronzer is something that you use to look polished, alive and “natural, not noticeable.”

Number two! Get your favorite mascara. Use a black mascara to thicken your lash-line and to define your lashes . . . personally I never use any other color. My favorite mascara ranges from the typical $8 mascara from the local drugstore to my trusty Lancome Definicil Mascara. ALWAYS replace your mascara every 10 weeks, if you use it daily. Not only can you get an infection, but it dries out and becomes flakey and clumps your lashes together. Having a new mascara makes your application process easier and FASTER! Apply an even layer on your lashes and try to separate the lashes by using very small back and forth movements. If you get mascara on your skin while applying it, let the mascara dry completely, then flake it off with your fingernail. NEVER try to get mascara off when it is wet.

Number three! Find a great gloss that you are comfortable with, both in color and shine. Some of my girlfriends hate gloss because their hair sticks to it or they just don’t like the thicker texture and look. In that case, find a tinted lip moisturizer to substitute for gloss. The reason I say a gloss is a “must have” is because it is one thing you can re-apply without the use of a mirror, there are many colors to choose from, and it dresses up a natural and virtually makeup-less look. I LOVE the juicy tubes by Lancome or Lip Glass by MAC. Try a reddish hue for the holidays and your friends will think you took forever to get ready! Apply directly on or use your fingertip to smear it on. Usually brands will sell wonderful sets for the holidays at reduced prices.

Now is the time to “buy and try” for your new years, “new look” resolution.

All recommended products available at Nordstrom.

Glowology, according to The Daily Obsession, offers the perfect gift for “The Yummy Mummy” on your list. The Daily Obsession covers fashion, beauty, shopping and lifestyle, and has a wonderful holiday gift guide. Our Simply Divine gift-set was included as a must-have along with our Essential Care Kit for the little ones in your life. Here is what they had to say:

holiday gift-guide 07: yummy mummy

Even the yummiest of moms may not look so divine after a sleepless night waiting up with her child for Santa. Gift her with the Simply Divine set ($45) from Noodle & Boo’s glowology line. She can re-charge by lathering up with the Heavenly Honey Wash, a rich cloud of milk and honey meant to refresh and relax. Afterward, she’ll turn to the Lovely Body Lotion to hydrate and smooth skin (not to mention, will leave her smelling SO good). And since we know that these mommies just adore their children…add the Essential Care Kit ($15) so that her kid can join in on the fun, too. The result is baby soft skin - for both mother and child!

Noodle & Boo products available at Neiman Marcus.

Glowology’s Simply Divine makes the “top 12″ list on the STYLELIST. Here is what they had to say:

Bath Beautiful

Need the perfect present for a girlfriend, neighbor, or co-worker? This indulgent Glowology gift set, featuring body wash and lotion made from milk and honey, is formulated for even the most sensitive skin. Simply Divine Gift Set, $45, www.noodleandboo.com.

To view The Stylelist’s complete list of BEST: Last-Minute Holiday Gifts, click here.

Senior writer for Celebrity Baby Blog and Mommies With Style, Nancy Johnson Horn was 30 weeks pregnant when she requested Glowology products to review. She was a perfect candidate to review our line as they are developed to be 100% safe for pregnant and nursing moms.

Here’s what she had to say, “Heading into my 30th week of pregnancy, my ankles are getting more swollen every minute. And my feet are getting so dry! What can I do to fix this?

Well, Noodle & Boo, very well known for taking care of the sensitive skin for the playground set (also a celeb fave for their kids) recently started a line for expecting mamas called Glowology. They sent me two products to review, The Balm and the Elasticity Oil. Both are organic and I’m in love with them!

The Balm ($24 for 6.5 oz) actually moisturizes my feet and feels wonderful. You can also use it on your hands. Made with oh-so-rich organic shea butter, sunflower oil and with a blend of billberry, lemon, orange, sugar cane and sugar maple extracts, it smells amazing (but I like that it works!) It also kept the moisture in for hours (something the other lotions I’ve used just don’t do). Treat your feet to this, whether you’re pregnant or not! I do not let it out of my sight!

I’m also using their Elasticity Oil ($42 for a 4 oz bottle) to nourish my itchy belly and bust. You can also add it to your bath. This heavenly oil contains sunflower and jojoba seed oil, with a little honey, calendula (to calm the skin) and grape seed oil (to soothe). Also smells delicious and works well!

Noodle & Boo also have some other great products in their new line, I’d love to try. Check out the Perfecting Creme ($62) - to reduce stretch marks and the Afterglow Gel - to firm and slim the skin.”

Glowology products are availabe at Neiman Marcus.

Happiness is being so close to meeting the little person of your dreams . . .

Juli B - San Francisco is a lifestyle and luxury blog . . . a new fav of Harper’s Bazaar . . . has this to say about Glowology’s Perfecting Creme for stretch mark control:

glow on.
proclaim your radiance. the noodle and boo glowology perfecting crème ($62) is the prod to keep you feeling like your old self. or young self, for that matter. this 3.5-ounce tube squeezes out nothing but goodness. collagen synthesizers and fibronectin (we don’t know what it is but sounds good) helps to reduce stretch marks. also great for the pregger ones. available at neiman marcus.

A nice review from beauty expert Mickey Williams at BeautyBakery. Mickey says: “This lotion is considered a luxury in the body beauty world and it’s not just for its super smooth texture and flirty smell.

Glowology glimmers with other benefits like being solely created with the sensitive flesh in mind. I recommend Glowology Lovely Body Lotion as a fall to winter product. It’s a nice complement when the nights get colder and your honey gets closer.

Nourishing milk protein, almond oil and clover honey leave skin sweetly soft.”

Available at Neiman Marcus, Lovely Body Lotion, $26.00

Happiness is having someone to cuddle with . . .

A review from BeautyNewsLA. We are glad that Glowology is a new fav!!! Here’s what beauty expert Courtney Kretchman had to say:

This month, the educated editors at BeautyNewsLA have found love in studying Glowology. Positively defined as “the art of celebrating the beauty in every woman,” Glowology is a luxury line of skincare by Noodle & Boo dedicated to women who are “expecting” or have sensitive skin.

Whether brought on by stress, hormones, weather or any handful of reasons, skin can become more sensitive with age. Glowology products have been developed with natural ingredients that are moisturizing and regenerating, to relieve, calm and reduce symptoms of easily irritated skin. Specially selected ingredients improve skin’s tolerance level, while also helping to reinforce its barrier to outside influences.

The Sugar Mama Honey Scrub was a unanimous favorite amongst the BNLA women. Even those of us who didn’t claim any skin sensitivity issues couldn’t seem to get enough of the honey and shea butter whipped body scrub. It’s even sold as a boxed duo called Honey Child, packaged with the Sugar Mama Honey Bar. Gentle enough for little ones too, the moisturizing bath bar smells amazing and is said to balance skin’s natural pH level.

We also couldn’t wait to pick up the Repair Kit for our pregnant pals. The bow-tied embossed box set includes Glowology’s Perfecting Crème, a formula to control and prevent stretch marks, and Afterglow Gel to firm and tone the skin.

From packaging to product, we can’t say enough about Glowology. We only wish we’d studied it sooner…

Available at Neiman Marcus, Beverly Hills.

Happiness is healthy skin . . .

What a nice write-up at people.com on our new line, Glowology, developed especially for women with sensitive skin.

“Stars like Jennifer Garner and Liv Tyler love to suds up their kids using only the best with Noodle & Boo’s line of ultra-gentle baby soaps and shampoos. But when the company found out that the little ones weren’t the only ones appreciating the products, they created a new line for all those moms who couldn’t resist sampling the products themselves. Glowology uses the same gentle ingredients as the children’s line, but in a way that’s definitely all grown up. The mild scent of Heavenly Honey Wash floats away stress, while the Lovely Body Lotion keeps skin moisturized without greasiness. And our favorite, the Sugar Mama Honey Scrub, contains gentle exfoliants to buff your way to baby-soft skin. Best of all, the company donates 20% of their profits to children’s charities. We can’t think of a more perfect holiday gift for all those caring moms on our list.”

Happiness is baby-soft skin . . .