Tag Archives: blog

Summer School

Unfortunately, more often than not the lessons that stick are the ones that are learned the hard way. I’ve found myself getting “color”–a sunburn or tan–even though I applied sun protection before heading out and I could never understand why. After meeting Dr. Jeannette Graf, M.D. I finally have the answer. She says “sunscreen has a cumulative effect on the skin. Over time, it accumulates giving you more than just that day’s protection.”

If you haven’t been applying sunscreen each and every day and you’re only applying it when you spend lots of time in the sun it might not be enough to protect you from those burning, damaging and aging rays. Lesson learned!

 

Flaunt your Inner Hippie!

In the sweltering month of August I always get a bit more in touch with my bohemian side. I keep it modern by mixing and matching with pieces I already own. Here, some boho-chic options to help you do the same.

Exotic jewelry makes a statement on its own. I’m crazy about The Maasai Collections Maasai Zip Cuff, $195 at shoplatitude.com and the Bluma Kiva Choker, $165 at abchome.com (photo above).

Graphic prints grab attention–a little goes a long way. Check out these gorgeous Beaded African Print Shorts at topshop.com and Aldo Taipa Platform Sandals, $55.99 at zappos.com.

A tunic works for all shapes and sizes but choose wisely so it makes you look long and lean instead of boxy. It’s extra flattering when nipped in slightly at the waist. See Joie Nira Top, $188 at www.joie.com and the Border Print Tunic, $118 at www.freepeople.com.

I love a beachy dress with gladiators or flip flops for day. Paired with ballet flats or sandals and a fitted blazer it gives off a more urban vibe. You’ll like Megan Park Silk Dress, $144 at shoplatitude.comQuotation: Red Haute Maxi Dress, $193.60 at bloomingdales.com and BCBGMaxAzria Eva Scarf-Print Dress, $268 at bcbg.com.

 

 

(photography courtesy of abchome.com)

A Posthumous Letter to my Dad…on Father’s Day

Dear Dad,

This is a hard one…it’s the first year that I won’t get to personally hand you a Father’s Day card and tell you how much I love you and give you a big hug and wish you a happy father’s day. You won’t be at the family barbecue and you won’t be saying that my cake is the best you’ve ever tasted. If I was giving you a card I’d tell you how thankful I am for all you’ve taught me, like…

  • family is everything.
  • make friends from all different walks of life–it’s what makes life interesting.
  • a little beef jerky can fix anything.
  • the importance of hard work and even harder play.
  • never chase a bet.
  • it’s nice to reminisce–the good old days really were good days.
  • there’s nothing better than bagels & lox for Sunday brunch.
  • keep learning.
  • always make room at the table when a friend stops by.
  • there are do-ers and there are talk-ers. Be a do-er.
  • treat everyone with respect, regardless of their station in life.
  • help when you can.
  • don’t let others drag you down.
  • life is too short…even when you live to be 85!

Today is 295 days without you and not a day goes by that I don’t think of you and miss you. I will always love you and I will always remember. xoxoNancy

Jewelry Obsession: Lulu Frost

Recently dining with a friend, I spotted a fabulous bangle on her wrist–it was Lulu Frost. As soon as I got home I checked out lulufrost.com and have been coveting her pieces ever since!

Designer Lisa Salzer blends antique, vintage and modern elements to craft timeless classics. Some of her jewelry might look familiar–she also designs for J.Crew–but it’s her one-of-a-kind, opulent creations that have me panting!

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Win This Bag!

Give your beauty products a pretty place to hang out!  Inspired by the Spring ’13 runway shows, Modella’s Zebra Blossom 4 Piece Fitted Mini Train Set is on trend and will keep you organized.

One lucky reader will be randomly selected to win this travel set.

TO ENTER:

  1. Subscribe to my blog, www.thebeautywall.com.
  2. Write a comment for this or any of my previous blog posts. Be sure to include your e-mail or other contact information so I can send you your prize if you win.
  3. Share this contest on facebook, pinterest, twitter or forward it to a friend.

Giveaway will run through Friday, 3/8/13. Good luck and thanks for participating! Nancy

 

 

You’re Invited! Bath & Body Works Event

Snow is predicted (again!) by weeks end, making it harder than ever to believe that warm weather is just around the corner. No matter how much snow may fall, I’m thinking Spring.

In my family, Spring has always been special–my brother, sister, daughter and I are all born in the Spring and share birthdays within days of each other. Beautiful flowers sprout up everywhere and I always receive more than my fair share of impromptu bouquets–the dandelion bunches are the absolute best! And a favorite activity of mine–strawberry picking–is always done in late Spring. My husband, kids and I head to Alstede Farms in Chester, NJ where we fill our bellies as much as we fill our baskets. When we get home, we whip up strawberry pies and strawberry preserves and as many other wonderful treats as there are recipes on pinterest. Click here for an easy and delicious strawberry shortcake recipe. If you’re not a baker yourself, Alstede’s homemade goods are for sale. My favorite? Their mixed-berry pie!

For an early taste of Spring yourself, mark your calendar for this Saturday, March 9th from 1:00pm – 5:00pm. At participating Bath & Body Works stores nationwide, there will be Farmers’ Market inspired events where you can try strawberry, peach and tangerine fragrances and other products from their new “Fresh Picked” collection. You’ll also get to test their latest soaps, creams and candles and go home with free samples of the new line’s Body Wash or Body Lotion. At their Spring Home Decor Workshop you’ll learn how to refresh and enhance your home, and you’ll even receive a Peach Candle, as a gift with purchase.

To RSVP “Yes”, click here.