12 Delightful Valentine’s Day Decor

By Meream

In addition to decorating your door and mantel for Feb. 14, you might want to look into other craft projects for this month, too. To help you out, we have here 12 Valentine’s Day Decor. These are cute, creative, and wonderfully romantic. Dress up your home with these Valentine’s Day decor and you are sure to feel 10x more in love, I guarantee it.

1. M&Ms Topiary

Those pink, red, and white circles are M&Ms! Very cool, yes? If you want to make your own, you will need a flower pot, a round Styrofoam ball, a wooden post or dowel, paint, Valentine’s Day M&Ms, ribbon, moss, and hot glue

2. Tissue Paper Fringe

Tissue paper is always a handy craft material to have. If you happen to have some in pink and red, you can use them to make this lovely fringe Valentine’s Day decor. This is a simple cutting and gluing project that your kids can help you with.

3. Jar Candles

Here is an idea that can prove useful come Valentine’s night. You can use these to set the tone in your home for that lovely dinner you are planning.

4. Mailboxes

These are all sorts of adorable! These would be great for writing notes to members of your family. Perhaps you can write a note a day until the 14th? The mailboxes used here were bought in Target. They were then glued to spray painted candlestick holders and embellished with scrapbook paper letters.

5. Paper Rosettes

These are absolute darling as well. And so easy to do! If you can’t find wooden hearts, you can always use cardboard or card stock. I think foam sheet will work, too.

6. Bouquet Ball

How cute is this Valentine’s Day decor? Much like the first tutorial, you will need a Styrofoam ball to make this lovely project. You will hot glue silk flowers to it and then hang using pretty ribbon. Easy-peasy

7. Heart Trees

Yep, you can create tree decor not only in December but also for other months of the year. For February, Christina shows us how to make these delightful heart trees. I love the skeleton key charms she added.

8. Confetti Bottles

This is probably the easiest project among these DIY Valentine’s Day decor. To make your lovely bottle beauties, you spray paint them white, wrap double sided tape around the middle section, and roll them around hole punches. Fun!

9. Framed

This idea is fantastic for those who love to change their home decor quite frequently. You simply make a new design to frame every month or whenever you feel like celebrating a a special day.

9. Framed

This idea is fantastic for those who love to change their home decor quite frequently. You simply make a new design to frame every month or whenever you feel like celebrating a a special day.

11. Pom Poms

Here is another easy DIY Valentine’s Day decor. To make this, you thread pom poms and hang like a curtain. I’d do this but I have cats.

12. Book Page Heart Mobile

This mobile may have a heart motif but I think you can keep this decor all year. It’s too pretty to take down after Feb. 14. If you want to make your own, head on over to Being Brook for the how-to.

 

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18 Tips to Make Your Eyes Stand Out …

By Melissa Diem 

Do you love eye makeup that makes your eyes stand out? I know I do. Because of that I am always looking for tips to make your eyes stand out. Here’s a list I put together to share with you girls.

1. Blue Eyes

If you want to make your blue eyes stand out start by using the right eye shadow colors. Brown, beige and silver work best, but maybe not altogether.

2. Brown Eyes

Browns eyes can really pop with gold, tan and blue shades of shadow. The color contrast is what helps bring them out.

3. Green Eyes

Can you guess what colors will make green eyes stand out? Makeup artist suggest using purple, blue, sliver and pink to really emphasis green eyes.

4. Small Eyes

Sometimes smaller eyes don’t get as much attention, but with the right eyeliner tips you can really make your eyes stand out. You are going to want to line your top lash line from the midpoint of our eye to the outer edge. You can even go beyond the edge just a little. Also line your lower lash line a quarter of the way in. This technique draws attention to the outside of your eyes making them appear larger.

5. Brighten up

Are your eyes looking a little dull? Try to brighten them up with a little peach or beige liner along the bottom rim from corner to corner.

6. Eyelashes

My favorite way to make eyes stand out with by curling lashes. If your lashes are straight or point down this technique will really open up your eyes.

7. Mascara

 
mascara has a way of taking your face from boring to vivacious. Black mascara is the key to making your eyes stand out. In my opinion without mascara all other techniques are useless.

8. Even Brighter Eyes

Another tip to brighten up your eyes is to use a little white shadow on the inside of your eye near the tear ducts. Just this little bit of white can make a huge difference.

9. Highlight

 

Don’t forget to highlight your brow bone. This is the area beneath your eyebrows and above your crease. Add a simple light white or beige shade to the area for full effect 

 

10. Eyebrows

While we are on the topic of eyebrows let’s not forget to keep those bad boys tame. Unruly eyebrows can draw attention away from your eyes. If you want your to make your eyes stand out be sure to pluck or wax your brows.

11. Deep-Set Eyes

Do you have deep set eyes? If you do here is little tip. Use a shimmery shadow in the hue appropriate for your eye color. The shimmer will draw your eyes out more.

12. Neutral Lip Color

Either you want to draw attention to your eyes or your lips. You can’t do both. That’s just too much drama for one face. If you want to make your eyes stand out wear a neutral lip color.

13. Dark Circles

Conceal dark circles under your eyes. We want people to notice your eyes for good reasons, not because you have bags and look like you haven’t slept in days.

14. Black Liner No-No

While a heavy black eyeliner circle around your entire eye will attract attention, it’s not the kind of attention we were seeking. Avoid doing this. It makes your eye look really small.

15. False Lashes

I think fake lashes look terrific and with black liner are gorgeous for a night out or a special event. I don’t think the same look is as effective for a run to the grocery store or post office. Save the all that glamor for the right occasion.

16. Glasses

Do you wear glasses? Don’t worry you can still make your eyes stand out. Add a light concealer underneath your eye all the way to the outer corner. The light color attracts attention and hides in shadow caused by glasses.

17. Bigger Lashes

If you want to add more drama to your lashes without going all out with faux lashes, trying applying a couple more coats to the outer lashes. It will make them appear thicker and longer.

18. Bottom Lashes

Sometimes these poor little guys just get forgotten, but if you really want to make your eyes stand out you will show them a little attention. Don’t go crazy, one or two coats of mascara should be enough.
I love talking about eye makeup and learning new ways to make eyes stand out. If you have any other tips to make eyes stand out please share them.

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7 Adjustment Tips for a New Relationship

By Heather Jensen 

 

There are so many tips for a new relationship out there, how do you know which ones to follow? There are so many ways to get comfortable in a new relationship, it’s really difficult to actually tell which rules are going to work out for you. If you’re in a brand new relationship and are dying for some tips for a new relationship, take a look below girls! I’ve got all of the adjustments and tips that you’ll need!

1. Depending on Someone Else

One of the biggest adjustments that I had to make when I was first starting out in a relationship was learning to depend on someone else. This is one of the tips for a new relationship that you’ve got to take a heart girls, especially if you are super independent. Sometimes, it’s okay for your partner to take care of you and for you to lean on them if you need something.

2. Letting down Walls

Another huge adjustment that you’ll have to make when you’re first getting into a relationship is letting down all of the walls that you’ve built up around yourself. Truthfully girls, this is a hard one to let go. I know that letting someone inside and letting them know you completely is hard, but it’s worth it!

3. No Baggage

I know that baggage will eventually make its way into your relationship, but in the beginning, you shouldn’t have any baggage or let it interfere with your relationship. Baggage is something that can ruin a brand new relationship and sometimes, can overwhelm your partner right away!

4. Leave past Relationships in The past

Always, when you’re entering a brand new relationship, you’ve got to leave your past relationship habits and past relationship assumptions in the past. This is a new person, girls. You don’t have to put everything from your past relationships on them.

5. Open Communication

One great relationship tip for a new relationship that I had to learn was having open communication. If you aren’t used to having any open communication with anybody, it can be hard to switch up your thinking and really start sharing with your partner. It’s an adjustment, but it can be done, girls!

6. Sweet Surprises

When you have a partner, having sweet little surprises delivered to you or even just coming home to a home-cooked meal can make all of the difference and really make you appreciate being in a relationship. When my partner and I first started dating, I used to love coming home to a home-cooked meal once in a while – that I didn’t even ask for. She would surprise me all of the time!

7. Including Them in Plans

When you’re in a relationship, you don’t always have to think of the other person, but you do have to think about including them in your plans. If you are thinking about moving, how is that going to affect your relationship? Think about yourself, especially if the relationship is very, very new, but consider your partner too.

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7 Reasons Why Life after University Isn’t So Bad …

By Ellie Gibbons 

 

One of the scariest times in your life will probably be after you’ve left education for the last time – it certainly is for me; but life after university doesn’t have to be so terrifying. Chances are, you’ll be moving back home and looking for a full-time job. You’ll miss you friends, your freedom and probably your sense of direction. You may feel lost, but you don’t have to be; here are my tips for why life after university isn’t so scary, after all. And I will certainly be trying to follow them.

1. MONEY

The most obvious reason for why life after university isn’t so bad. If you’re going into full-time work, you’re going to have a lot more earning potential than you did working behind the student bar every Wednesday and Friday. You could start saving for the things you really want now: a house, a car, a holiday… whatever you want.

2. FAMILY & FRIENDS

For most people, one of the hardest things about leaving for university is leaving their families and friends behind. Not permanently, but it’s still a radical change. Once you’re back home, you’ll have more free time to spend with your family, and a chance to reconnect with your old friends. You’ll soon realise how much you’ve missed them.

3. BE LAZY

This is one of my less noble reasons – okay, so you’re officially an adult; but the time where you’ve moved back home and you’re trying to get on your feet is the time when you can be treated like a kid again. Did you get dinner cooked for you and your washing done by your mum whilst you were at university?

4. POSSIBILITIES

So, unless you’re one of those people who have always known what they wanted to do with their lives (I envy you!), you may be feeling scared at the prospect of what’s coming next. Try not to think of it as frightening, but as an endless list of possibilities. A career fast-track? Discovering an interest in a industry that wasn’t even on your radar before? Travelling the world? Post-grad study? It’s up to you to decide.

5. STRUCTURE

Did you ever find yourself aimlessly wandering around campus, or cooking about ten meals a day whilst you were at university? I did, because I had a lot of spare time and it was up to me to define my working hours. Now, you have a clear structure – and the time you do have off will feel special, well-earned and probably very busy.

6. MULTI-TASKING

Similarly, with a defined routine, you’ll know when your free time is and how you want to spend it. And because your free time is more precious, you may want to spend it doing something more productive. With today’s tough working climate, lots of people take a second job or embrace a hobby doing something they really love, like DJ-ing, writing, baking or something artsy. The world is your oyster.

7. EXPERIENCE

Whenever you feel sad that your university life is over, think about what a truly great experience it was – all the highs and the lows. Then think how short a time it was, and how much time you have ahead of you – and how many wonderful experiences you have left to come.

Life has to change; if it didn’t, you would get bored, no matter how much you enjoyed yourself at the time. What makes the difference is how you view the change! I’m still learning – does anyone have any other tips? What are your own experiences?

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14 Best Inexpensive Gift Ideas for Your Boyfriend

By Jennifer Knightstep

 

It’s the holiday season, and if you’re anything like me, you’re out of pocket, underfunded — broke. But that’s no reason to neglect the man in your life! He’s most deserving, isn’t he? Sure you’d like to get him a great cologne or a cool gadget. But, there are tons of great gifts you can give your boyfriend that won’t put you into debt. Here’s my list of the ten best inexpensive gifts for men. Or, more precisely, for your boyfriend, husband, or fiancé.

1. Frame it

Find a great photo of the two of you, have a copy made, and put it in a black leather or chrome frame. A nice frame can be as inexpensive as ten dollars!

2. Take a photo

If you’re not too shy, have a close friend take some tasteful boudoir photos of you. Keep it clean, but sexy. No crotch shots, no nipples! Print a few and add them to a small album. Or, burn your favorites to a CD. Either way, those photos of you are guaranteed to warm his heart (and other parts!) til spring!

3. Make a coupon book

Whether you just started dating, or you’ve been together forever, a coupon book is a great way to give a gift that actually works for you, too. Coupons can be hand-made or printed, and can be for things like “Get out of one argument free” or “Day of football” or “Good for one back massage.” Get creative!

4. Pamper him

Break out your pumice and peppermint foot scrub and treat him to an at-home pedicure. Soak his feet in very warm water for ten minutes while massaging his hands with non-girlie scented lotion (no fruits or flowers!). Then pat his feet dry, massage the pumice scrub into them, rinse well, and rub with that same non-scented lotion you used on his hands.

5. Put him on the Naughty List

Make a naughty kit for him: whipped cream, handcuffs, a blindfold, that sort of thing. Again, the more creative, the better!

6. Make him a mix CD

Make him a CD of Christmas songs. You can go traditional (“White Christmas” by Bing Crosby, “Winter Wonderland” by Louis Armstrong and “Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives) or fun and modern (“Rudolph” by Jack Johnson, “Baby please Come Home” by Death Cab for Cutie, and “The Christmas Song” by the Ravonettes). Draw your own CD cover art and be sure to include the year!

7. Treat him to a game

If he’s got a favorite sports team, you can probably find inexpensive tickets to an off-day game or event. Still too expensive? If he’s into hockey, but you can’t afford the Red Wings, then buy tickets to a non-pro team instead.

8. Treat him to a movie

Take him to the movies and buy him popcorn, a soda, and some candy. Let him choose the movie, too… I’m talking “Ninja Assassin,” not “Leap Year.” No matter how ridiculously violent or scary or plotless pretend to enjoy it. Heck, you may even enjoy it for real!

9. Get a buddy gift

If you know someone else is getting him something expensive, get a companion gift. For instance, if his parents are getting him the iPod Touch, get him an iTunes gift card or carry case or car adaptor. If he’s getting a Wii, get him the new Mario Brothers game.

10. Get him a certificate

If your man is anything like mine, he’s got a favorite pub where he hangs with his mates. Get him a gift card for the price of two or three pints, and include a note that encourages him to spend a night out with the boys.

11. Make him an ornament

That’s right: get old-school childish and make him an ornament for his tree. Get out your crafts and make him something with felt pens, glittery gems, and pom-poms.

12. Take him skating

So much fun! Take him to the ice rink for skating. If there’s no ice rink where you live, then take him roller skating. Wear your cutest hat and mittens, or if it’s inside, impress him with your backwards skating skills. Then treat him to cocoa or a milkshake.

13. Clean for him

If he lives away from home, chances are, his flat, house, or apartment can get messy. Bring your own sponges and cleaners, and get to work. If you’re feeling particularly generous, clean in lingerie.

14. Fill a stocking

If he’s got a sweet tooth, buy a stocking and fill it with his favorite sweet treats. Go for cute and embroider or glitter-pen it with his name.

See? There are so many ways to show you affection and love without spending a ton of money. I’m sure there are a lot of other great ideas out there, too! What is your best inexpensive gift idea for your boyfriend? What did your man think of it? Please let me know!

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Top 9 Skin Friendly Deodorants

By Lisa Washington 

 

If you’re looking for a deodorant that’s not only effective in reducing odor but is also natural, you need to check out these skin-friendly deodorants ASAP! We depend on our deodorant to help us stay fresh, clean and dry, but we never think about how it affects our skin. These 9 skin-friendly deodorants contain natural and good-for-you ingredients that are just as good for you as they are at fighting odor and sweat!

1. Lavanila Laboratories The Healthy Deodorant

Let’s start this list of skin-friendly deodorants with Lavanila’s healthy deodorant. What makes this deodorant unique is that it’s perfectly safe for skin, it’s natural and it’s also clinically proven to be effective in keeping you dry. Choose from five different vanilla fragrances that will soothe and condition delicate underarms.

2. Dr. Hauschka Floral Deodorant

Dr. Hauschka’s floral deodorant is one of the best deodorants for ladies looking for a non-clogging deodorant that balances and refreshes skin. This antiperspirant-free deodorant is made with essentials oils and herb extracts to reduce odor and provide a sheer flower fragrance.

3. Derma Doctor Total Nonscents Ultra–Gentle Brightening Antiperspirant

This next product is solely an antiperspirant, but it’s still a very gentle yet effective product. Heavy duty antiperspirants can be very drying and harsh on the skin but this baby is gentle enough to use right after shaving! Other benefits of this antiperspirant are that it dries quickly and diminishes dark underarms!

4. Fresh Sugar Deodorant Antiperspirant

If you’re looking for the perfect combination of odor and wetness protection paired with natural ingredients, you’re in luck! Fresh’s deodorant and antiperspirant is made without sulfates, synthetic dyes or GMOs. It is also formulated to soothe skin and prevent bacteria to keep you cool and dry!

5. Kiss My Face Liquid Rock Roll-on Deodorant

This deodorant is perfect for ladies who are pregnant or just looking for a safe and natural yet hard-working deodorant that keeps you feeling fresh and dry all day. The clear formula won’t leave any residue behind and the cucumber and green tea scent will leave you feeling and smelling clean.

6. JASON Aloe Vera Deodorant Stick

This is one of the best deodorants for ladies with sensitive skin. The fresh fragrance is great for ladies or gents and it works just as hard as deodorants with aluminum. Aloe vera soothes and softens even the most sensitive skin while keeping underarms dry and fresh for hours.

6. JASON Aloe Vera Deodorant Stick

This is one of the best deodorants for ladies with sensitive skin. The fresh fragrance is great for ladies or gents and it works just as hard as deodorants with aluminum. Aloe vera soothes and softens even the most sensitive skin while keeping underarms dry and fresh for hours.

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