Phyllis Bourne | Romance Author

Anybody Still Make (or Keep) New Year's Resolutions?

2012-01-09T07:04:00.010-06:00

My New Year's resolution in pictures (and a few words)...

Get back on track at Weight Watchers and actually LOOK like someone who has earned Lifetime status.

Learn French <- my resolution for over 20 years, but I'm really gonna try hard to do it this year.

Improve my writing process. I can write a book, but how I get from the blank page to the end isn't pretty.

It's already over a week into the new year. How are your resolutions coming along?

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T11:28:00.003-06:00

Wishing you all the best of everything in 2012!

Happy Thankgiving!

2011-11-24T07:34:00.005-06:00

How do you get out of Thanksgiving cooking and have your hubby absolutely love you for it?

Live holiday football!

We're spending the afternoon at the Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers game, where stadium hot dogs are on the menu!

Happy Thanksgiving, y'all!

The Writing Life in Pictures

2011-11-09T07:30:00.017-06:00

This week, I turned in the first book on my Kimani Press contract.

I wanted to fill y'all in on the past few months, but find writers blogging about writing to be a snoozy topic.

"Staring at the black page is sooooo hard."

"Where's my muse?"

"This chair makes my butt hurt."

"Blah, blah, blah, zzzz, zzzz..."

So I thought I'd sum up the last few months of my life in (snoozy) pictures.

My office:

Kitchen:

Bedroom:

Starbucks:

Library:

And everyone needs an office buddy:

Now I'm off to look at something besides my laptop!

Autumn Dreaming

2011-09-01T14:00:00.010-05:00

It’s nearly 100 degrees outside today, and our air conditioning is on full blast.

However, the latest additions to my closet are in anticipation of crisp autumn days and Starbucks pumpkin coffees.

Here’s what I picked up at a recent Ann Taylor Loft 40-percent off sale:

Anybody else jump the gun on fall fashions? If so, what did you pick up?

Do You Believe in Signs?

2011-05-18T08:27:00.000-05:00

As writers we’ve all been there. You send off a proposal and the waiting begins.

When I’m playing the waiting game, I tend to look for signs my manuscript will hopefully sell.

This time I saw my ‘sign’ on the shelves of Sephora – a bath set with the same name as my book.

Honestly, it was probably just a coincidence, but I bought the set – and my proposal for ‘Sweet On You’ sold!

Anybody else? Come on, I can’t be the only desperately wacky person out there.

Tell me about your last sign.

Brush With Fame

2011-05-16T07:36:00.001-05:00

Spotted on my way to Starbucks this morning!

Knitting Project

2011-04-18T08:10:00.005-05:00

It's still sweater weather here, and Mr. Phyllis thinks this one I made looks good enough to wear. Hmmm...I'm not so sure.

Sooooo, what do y'all think? Yes or No?

*Einstein Coat from Sally Melville's The Knitting Experience Book 1: The Knit Stitch, Inspiration & Instruction

Happy Dancing!

2011-04-08T10:09:00.008-05:00

If you're reading this I'm already at Chick-fil-A celebrating with lemonade and waffle fries, because...

OPERATION PRINCE CHARMING, is a finalist in the Single Title Contemporary category of WisRWA's Write Touch Readers' Award contest!!!!

Honestly, I'm not sure what I'm the happiest about - finaling or Chick-fil-A?

I Made A Cake Y'all!

2011-04-02T07:12:00.002-05:00

The main character of the book I'm working on bakes the most scrumptious desserts.

Dessert at my house is usually a Snickers bar, so I recently spent five hours in Classic Cakes class for a crash course in baking.

Voila! A Five-Flavor Pound Cake homemade by yours truly:

A Breakthrough!

2011-03-18T05:21:00.001-05:00

I finally figured out a story problem that’s been holding up progress on my WIP. So I’m feeling like these spring flowers I spotted breaking through the dirt on a frigid 25-degree morning.

A Little Pick Me Up

2011-03-07T12:21:00.007-06:00

After coming up with zilch on my latest Sephora and J. Crew run, I spotted these earrings at the Hallmark store.

Just a pick-me-up to tide me over until it's time break out the spring clothes.

Soooo, what little item have you bought to help you get thru the final weeks of this dreary winter????

Never Say Never

2010-12-14T12:17:00.008-06:00

Uggs are ugly boots.

For the last few winter seasons, I’ve turned my nose up at ‘em and vowed to never, ever wear them.

Sigh. Icy temps and cold feet have spurred an unfashionable reversal of my decision.

Dangit, y’all! I don’t live down south to wake up to 16-degree temps, but I digress...

Last night I bought a pair of Ugg Bailey Button boots in black.

Once I stuck my size 8’s inside of those oh-so-warm boots, I instantly understood why otherwise chic women clomped around in them looking like Clydesdale horses.

My mom is the queen of putting on hideous clothes and saying, “I don’t care what you think, they’re warm.” (She’s cuter than me and can get away with it.)

But please tell me I’m not turning into her!

Soooo, has Mother Nature made you do some ugly things this winter?

Wearing clothes you thought you’d never be caught dead in?

Or maybe you think Uggs are cute?

Click the comment button and tell me all about it!

Wanna Write A Novel?

2010-11-02T04:59:00.005-05:00

Then join me and thousands of other over at www.nanowrimo.org, where we're going for 50,000 words in 30 days!

I'm Watching...

2010-10-25T12:48:00.008-05:00

I couldn’t help feeling sad when all-business bad guy Stringer Bell got his comeuppance on The Wire.

Poor Stringer’s gone, but actor Idris Elba is back on television, and this time he’s on the right side of the law playing Detective John Luther.

Honestly, it doesn’t matter to me if Idris is a playing hero or villain. I just love watching him.

Luther airs on BBC America Sunday nights at 10 pm/9 Central. If you’re like me and don’t have access to BBC America (and can’t wait until it comes out on DVD November 23rd), the series is available for download on iTunes.

So have you caught an episode of Luther yet?

Which One is Mom's Favorite????

2010-10-18T07:43:00.005-05:00

Phyllis and Elizabeth Bourne - 1966

Click here to visit me at Novel Spaces and find out!

Shopping Ban

2010-10-11T11:42:00.007-05:00

If you’re a friend of mine on Facebook (if you’re not, click the Facebook button on the right!), you already know I’m on shopping ban for the month of October.

Groan.

So of course, all of my favorite stores up and decided to have fabulous sales.

It gets worse. While flipping through a magazine I came across a Coach ad featuring a gorgeous scarf that’s just screaming my name:

The ocelot scarf is not on sale, but y’all know how much I love a cute animal print!

Anyhoo, I am now counting the days until November 1st and the end of this ridiculous, self-imposed shopping ban.

What In The Heck Is That???

2010-10-02T09:49:00.006-05:00

Wanna know what this is?

Click here to visit me at Novel Spaces, and I'll tell you all about it!

My New Favorite Jeans

2010-09-21T04:45:00.001-05:00

I’ve never stepped into a J. Jill store before this weekend. Honestly, the color palette of their clothes is a bit drab for my taste.

But after coming up empty at J. Crew, Ann Taylor Loft and Nordie’s shoe department, I took a peek inside to kill time while the hubs was in the Apple store.

I tried on these jeans and fell in love.

They flatter my curves and have the boyfriend jean look without the saggy, sloppiness.

The $89 price tag made wince. Yeah, I know. I have no problem with forking that over that and more at Sephora, but jeans are something I tend to buy from Target or Walmart for no more than $20. <- Hey, you have to scrimp on something.

Anyhoo, I’m wearing them today without a smidgen of buyer’s remorse. And thanks to the dh, I’m also in gadget heaven with a new iPad.

The jeans are also available online.

So what are your favorite jeans?

Traveling Pretty: Clarisonic Mia

2010-09-08T12:09:00.009-05:00

I jumped on the Clarisonic face brush bandwagon early. (Click here for my review)

Two years later, I’m hooked on the professional facial results it delivers in merely 60 seconds.

Last week, I picked up the smaller Mia (with a much smaller charger) for travel.

I tossed the Mia into my carry-on and was able to keep the Clarisonic glamour going during my Labor Day weekender.

*NOTE – The travel case did NOT come with the Mia.

Now I’m in the market for a good facial cleanser. Help me out! What’s your favorite facial cleanser?

Writing Playlists

2010-09-02T07:44:00.005-05:00

Want to know what I listen to when I'm writing?

Click over to Novel Spaces and find out?

I Think I Bought Ugly Shoes????

2010-08-26T10:23:00.013-05:00

These shoes are either:

a) Cute!

or

b) Damn ugly!

I marched over to Target's electronic department to try them on for Mr. Phyllis, who looked down at my feet and laughed. They're super comfy so I bought 'em anyway.

What do y'all think, yay or nay?!?!?!

P.S. If you're interested they're also available online for $24.99: Women's Merona® Micki Suede Athleisure Mary Jane Shoes - Black

Can't Wait!

2010-08-12T07:37:00.001-05:00

A Makeover Story – Coffee Edition

2010-08-10T06:05:00.000-05:00

Drinking massive amounts of black coffee is one of my true joys in life.

Whether the clock reads 8 am or midnight, I’m always up for a cup of java. Sometimes I’m tempted to remove the glass carafe and stick my head underneath the automatic drip.

But after years good service, I decided to retire my faithful 4-cup Mr. Coffee to Goodwill.

Farewell, old friend.

Allow me to introduce y’all to its replacement:

It’s my favorite color and makes exactly one cup (perfect because I’m the only one in our house who drinks coffee). I picked up the set of stacking mugs at World Market for $12 after spotting them on Sweet Tea in Seattle’s blog.

How about you guys? Makeover anything lately?

Law & Order: Special Writing Unit

2010-08-02T09:12:00.004-05:00

Soooo, you haven’t been getting your writing done, huh?

Click on over to Novel Spaces to read what happens to writers who don’t write!

OPERATION PRINCE CHARMING - RELEASE DAY!!!!!

2010-07-27T10:25:00.004-05:00

This morning, I woke up to this bouquet from Mr. Phyllis to celebrate the official release day of my new book!

OPERATION PRINCE CHARMING IS IN BOOKSTORES - NOW!!!!!!

What's For Lunch?

2010-07-20T15:31:00.011-05:00

“I’m rededicating myself to my diet plan this morning, and I’m gonna be soooo good!”

YAWN!

Yeah, I know. You've heard (and said) those same words a million times.

But hear me out. I indeed started the day with a bowl of Cheerios, skim milk and a banana. Not an easy feat for this hot breakfast loving gal!

And I stayed strong until lunchtime rolled around, when...uh, I... um… On second thought, I’ll skip the convoluted excuses.

Sometimes a photo says it all:

So have you giving into the temptation of any goodies lately? What did you have?

Guess What Santa Brought?

2010-07-18T10:19:00.009-05:00

Shhhh! Don’t tell the kids, but when you’re a grown-up Santa is actually the UPS man.

And on Friday he brought – AUTHOR COPIES!!!!

Want to know the first thing I do when I see my actual books for the first time? Visit me Novel Spaces, and I’ll tell ya!

Oh, no! Don’t go!

2010-07-08T08:14:00.010-05:00

I just love stepping out of the salon on hair day. My short bob is shiny, swingy and bouncing with body.

For the past year, I’ve kept the salon-fresh look of my blowout going all week by giving my hair a few spritzes of Kerastase Noctogenist Voile Nuit for Thin Hair before wrapping it at night.

Kerastase promises the overnight treatment will have you waking up to soft, radiant and renewed hair - and they’re absolutely right.

So imagine my shock when I read it was being discontinued.

Noooooooo!

Initially, I wanted to hoard as many bottles as I could find and stock my cabinets, but the $65 a bottle price tag calmed me down.

Instead, I bought just two bottles (one lasts me nearly a year). I’m hoping by the time I run out, they’ll be something even better on the market.

Soooo, what are some of your discontinued favorites?

Something's Gotta Give

2010-07-02T07:13:00.011-05:00

What do these two things have to do with writing?

I'll bet you already guessed, but come on over to Novel Spaces anyway and I'll tell you all about it!

4 1/2 Stars from RT Book Reviews!

2010-06-25T06:53:00.003-05:00

Of course, I think my August release Operation Prince Charming belongs in your beach book bag.

But I realize I might be a tiny bit biased.

So here's what RT Book Reviews - the top dog in romance novel reviews had to say:

"This charming romance is filled with realistic characters and real-life situations, making it a story readers will identify with. This is a pleasure to read, a story without unnecessarily high drama, but instead about people that readers can imagine themselves knowing. Bourne supplies the satisfying happy ending we all wish for and joins Rochelle Alers and Brenda Jackson as a crossover author with appeal for a wide audience."

It's HOT!

2010-06-23T09:21:00.014-05:00

For a week now, I've been living the life of a vampire.

Staying cool in my dark basement, only surfacing when the sun's gone down.

But as a beauty blogger I feel compelled to somehow maintain the pretty.

Fortunately, author and former stylist Katrina Spencer is dishing out tips on helping your hair beat the heat.

Check 'em out on her blog, and while you're at it check out her July release Unbeweaveable!

Well, it's back to the basement for me. See ya at sundown!

Product Review: DERMAdoctor Body Guard SPF 30 Sunscreen

2010-06-21T08:14:00.000-05:00

I’m a big girl, so I know the first rule of summer.

Use plenty of sunscreen.

But for me following this edict hasn’t been as easy as picking up a tube from my local drugstore and slathering it on. They’re either too greasy, cause breakouts or worst of all leave me covered in chalky residue.

This year, I bypassed my drug and discount store haunts and headed to Sephora. I explained my concerns to a SA, who marched me right over to the DERMAdoctor display and handed me a tube of their Body Guard SPF 30 sunscreen for face and body.

I glanced at the $25 price tag and started to place it right back on the shelf. Then she squirted a dollop of the stuff on my arm and rubbed it in.

The light cream immediately vanished into my skin without leaving a telltale coat of oil or white-tinged residue. EUREKA!

Body Guard’s oil-free, sheer formula offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, along with free-radical fighting anti-oxidants. I use it on both face and body with no hint of the clogged pours or breakouts I’ve experience with other brands.

Also, the 4-ounce bottle lasts a surprisingly long time.

For me, it’s worth the more-than-I-want-to-pay-for-sunscreen price tag.

So what products are you using to protect your skin from the sun this summer?

I Only Spent $2 at Target – For Real!

2010-06-11T18:04:00.002-05:00

Your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you.

Also, don’t bother checking my temperature or giving me a lie detector test. I’m not ill, and I’m not lying.

I indeed went to Target, pushed a red cart all over the store and only came out with $2 worth of merchandise.

Here’s what I got (from the cheap trinkets section in the front of the store, can’t remember what it’s called????):

Cool, huh? And perfect for those of us who were raise to share - but have kinda forgotten how.

The Truth About Booksignings

2010-06-05T09:10:00.006-05:00

Don't let the grin on my face fool you.

Click on over to Novel Spaces, and see what a booksigning for a midlist author is REALLY like!

Watch Out Project Runway!

2010-06-01T07:15:00.002-05:00

Last summer, I was totally inspired by author Kristi Belle of the elegantly fabulous lifestyle blog - La Bella Figura.

Kristi whipped up a wrap skirt so cute it stirred up my long-dormant sewing skills, and I bought a beginner’s sewing machine of my own!

To give you an idea how long it’s been since I’ve touched a sewing machine - Saturday Night Fever was tops at the box office and Lionel was still a Commodore.

Yep, that long.

I opted for the Janome Hello Kitty 11706 Size Freearm Sewing Machine pictured below:
Don’t let the cutesiness fool you. It’s genuine sewing machine - not a toy.

So far I’ve made a cut and sew apron:

Next up is a pillow for my office chair from this fabric:

Here’s the pattern for Kristi’s adorable summer skirt. I’m working my way up to making it.

Okay, soooo maybe the title of this post was a touch ambitious, and Project Runway candidates have nothing to fear – YET!

Looking for Inspiration?

2010-05-27T09:59:00.006-05:00

Sixteen Dorchester Publishing authors (including me!) are on Musetracks today offering great writing advice and a chance to win tons of free books!

I'll be giving away a signed copy of The Holiday Inn!

Come on over!

Confessions of an Office Store Junkie

2010-05-21T13:58:00.003-05:00

Last post you read about my summer fashion obsessions.

Here’s one of my current writing must-haves:

Click over to Novel Spaces to read more…

The Loft: Driving Me Wild!

2010-05-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

There is such a thing as love at first sight.

I felt it this morning on Ann Taylor Loft’s website.

“Oh, it’s just lust,” I told myself and slowly backed away from the computer.

After all, hadn’t I fallen for a cleverly disguised, old lady hat a few days ago? How could I have ever thought that ugly hat was chic? Ugh!

But I digress…

A bagel and two cups of coffee later, I returned to the computer and submitted my Ann Taylor Loft order.

Below are the objects of my affection:

Here's a closer look at the necklace:

This chocolate zebra-print cardi (also available in pink) and necklace are so me! I’m pretty sure it’s love. I’ll know for sure when my order arrives in a couple of days.

Any spring or summer fashions turn your head lately? What’s in your shopping cart????

Stuck?

2010-05-06T09:17:00.004-05:00

Here’s the scenario:

You signed a book contract and promptly blew your advance on make-up and cute shoes.

Good for you!

But now you’re STUCK on page 100 with at least 250 more pages to write.

Don’t panic.

Instead, click on over to Novel Spaces, and read my favorite new ways to get unstuck.

Operation Prince Charming - Coming August 2010

2010-05-03T13:09:00.013-05:00

I am so excited to finally tell y'all all about my upcoming release. Here's the scoop:

Operation Prince Charming
Phyllis Bourne

Dorchester Publishing
ISBN-10: 0843963905
ISBN-13: 978-0843963908

Detective Hunter Coleman has a lesson to learn. A lesson in etiquette. At least that’s what his suddenly wealthy girlfriend thinks. Now that she has to entertain socialites, Hunter is going to have to brush up on his p’s and q’s. This detective’s next assignment is a “Manners Makeover” at the Spencer School of Etiquette.

But Hunter finds he is more interested in his lessons than he thought he would be. Actually, it’s his teacher, Ali Spencer, who has caught his interest. All he seems to think about is smudging her perfect lipstick with long, hot kisses and upsetting her practiced poise with the most improper proposals. With his fiancée out hunting bigger game, Hunter realizes that good manners are no match for basic instincts, and he’s got all the charm he needs to win the woman he really loves.

OPERATION PRINCE CHARMING is available for pre-order at Borders, Books-A-Million, Barnes and Noble and Amazon! And at your favorite bookstore July 27, 2010.

So what are you waiting on - pre-order it!

Eat Chocolate – Stay Slim

2010-04-27T10:45:00.010-05:00

Somewhere between writing the middle and the end of my summer release Operation Prince Charming – the chocolate monkey jumped on my back.

It started off innocently enough.

I needed the sugar buzz to help my weary fingers and aching backside keep pace with the story spinning inside my head. But now that it’s done, I don’t have an excuse to buy my beloved Hershey Chocolate Bliss milk chocolates by the sack.

I tried going cold turkey – but chocolate keeps calling my name!

So I’ve found couple of substitutes that allow me to enjoy the rich taste of chocolate without bursting out of my skinny jeans.

VitaMuffin VitaTops in Deep Chocolate satisfy the chocolate craving for only 100 calories, and the 6 grams of fiber are filling enough that you won’t reach for a seconds.

At 180 calories each, Luna Protein bar in Cookie Dough are a decent candy bar substitute. But keep in mind, this is a PROTEIN bar – it’s not going to taste like a Snickers. Still, tasty enough to keep a sweet tooth happy, and it’s chockfull of vitamins and 12 grams of protein.

If you’re on Weight Watchers (I’ve been Lifetime for seven years, so I can’t help counting points in my head.) Here are the points:

VitaMuffin VitaTops in Deep Chocolate – 1 pt
Luna Protein bar in Cookie Dough – 3 pts

I’ll tell you more about Operation Prince Charming next month. Meanwhile, enjoy the chocolate!

Redecorating and The Call

2010-04-20T07:16:00.007-05:00

This is what the other side of my office looked like before I sold my first book:

Want to see the after photo? Then pop on over to Novel Spaces.

See you there!

Attention Romance Readers!

2010-04-19T14:04:00.006-05:00

If you read romance, the fabulous CHICKLITGURRL needs your help!

Here are the details:

To All READERS of ROMANCE FICTION!

I would love your input on a pilot study I'm conducting titled "Romancing the Reader: Preferences of the Romance Fiction Reader." With this pilot study, I seek answers to several questions, to include:

1- Why do women read romance fiction?
2- Is there a difference in the reading/purchasing habits of romance fiction readers depending on race?
3- What aspects of romance fiction do readers enjoy most?
4- What problems do readers find with romance fiction?
5- Do women read romance fiction from authors outside their race?
6- Does age of reader affect 1) reading of romance novels and 2) reading of romance novels across race?

For this pilot study, I am administering a survey, which is located on Survey Monkey [http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/romancefiction]. The survey should take no longer than 15 minutes to complete and consists of 26 questions on romance reading preferences and demographical information.

Names will not be used in the study. If you agree to participate in the study, please go to Survey Monkey [http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/romancefiction] where you will first read the consent form before completing the survey.

You can contact me at shon.bacon@ttu.edu if you have any questions.

I thank you all in advance for considering my request.

Book Review: 101 Things To Do Before You Diet

2010-04-13T12:14:00.012-05:00

Here we go again.

Spring’s finally arrived. It’s time to come out from under our winter layers and access the damage left by:

1. Too much couch
2. Too much food

Those figure-killing, twin disasters probably have you Googling diets and munching celery for lunch.

Or perhaps not…

Maybe you’re over the diet yo-yo (or just old enough to realize life is too short to live tied to the scale) and ready for a non-diet.

If so, you may be interested in a book I just finished (and loved!) 101 Things to Do Before You Diet: Because Looking Great Isn't Just about Losing Weight by Mimi Spencer.

Some of the 101 tips we’ve all heard before, some are new. All are really good. I’ve been out of school way too long to do a book report, so I’m going to highlight just a few of the tips that really hit home for me.

12. Eat meals not snacks. I grew up on three hot meals a day. Candy, chips and cookies were treats, not a daily thing. Back then a can of Pringles lasted me two weeks, now they barely last two minutes.

I’m working hard to get back into the swing of sitting down to meals and eschewing packaged snacks.

16. Give food your undivided attention. Don’t read, watch tv, text, drive or juggle when you eat. I’m a compulsive reader, and love sneaking a book to the dinner table. However, Spencer is dead on about it making you lose track of your actual hunger and how much you ate.

23. Get fitted for a new bra. Like you, I’ve heard or read this tip a bazillion times. This time I actually took the advice and got fitted at Nordstrom’s lingerie department.

WOW!!!! If I told you, y’all wouldn’t believe how off I was on my bra size – so I won’t tell. Anyhoo, my new bras took make me look at least 10 pounds thinner.

33. Buy more food that has no label. As in potatoes, not fries or chips. Chicken, not nuggets. Fish; not fish sticks (and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE fish sticks!!!) Apples, not apple pie. You get the picture. Just say no to a box or can.

100. In extremis, knit. This tip reminded me to unearth my knitting bag and long-forgotten projects from the closet. Knitting, especially during your favorite television shows, keeps your hands busy and out of the snacks.

There are a lot more great tips in this book. I highlighted and scribbled all over the margins of my copy.

So if a diet isn’t for you this spring. This non-diet approach to weight loss is worth a look.

Tulips!

2010-04-06T19:26:00.007-05:00

UPDATE!!!! Added another tulip photo.

In a rare domestic moment last fall, I planted tulip bulbs in our front yard. I can't believe they're actually coming up!!!!

Product Review: Olay Total Effects Body Wash - Deep Penetrating Moisture

2010-04-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

For the most part, Olay products have been a powerful ally in my war against Mother Nature.

So when their latest offering claimed to cleanse, moisturize and fight seven signs of aging all over my body, I couldn’t resist picking up a bottle of Olay Total Effects Body Wash in Deep Penetrating Moisture. They further promised soft, smooth skin after only one shower, improved elasticity in one week and young-looking radiant skin in a month.

Now let’s get down to what it actually did.

The good – One shower left my gator-like skin feeling ultra soft and moisturized. This was the first body wash I’ve ever used that made lotion optional.

The blah - It’s not really scented, and I found myself missing the kick of coconut, vanilla or fruit I get from my usual brands.

The verdict – I’m not naïve enough to believe a body wash will improve skin elasticity or make my skin younger looking. However, this is a fabulous one for anyone with really dry skin. It’s also great for mornings when you’re in a hurry and don’t have time for body moisturizer.

I paid $5.99 it at Publix, and I’d definitely buy it again.

I'm At Novel Spaces Today

2010-04-04T07:44:00.006-05:00

Want to know what this movie taught me about writing?

I'm blogging about it over at Novel Spaces.

This Is Me On Deadline

2010-04-01T07:00:00.005-05:00

Actually, it's a clock I bought last summer in NYC. But it's pretty close to what I look like when I'm writing.

Have a fun April Fool's Day, and watch out for pranksters!

I Made Sushi Y'all!

2010-03-24T17:33:00.006-05:00

Whenever there’s a celebratory meal around here, my first choice is always sushi. I could eat it until I pop!

So I was thrilled to spend this morning in a Sushi Workshop, where I learned how to make it myself.

Cooking wise I’m no gourmet, and we eat out a lot. (Just wanted to make sure your expectations of my cuisine were nice and low.) Also, seems like every time the chef pointed out how NOT to do something, I heard my name.

There were about ten people in the class. We each had individual workstations around a huge kitchen island.

Here’s my station before we got started:

The Menu:

Hand-Pressed Sushi with Shrimp, Smoked Salmon, Tuna and Eel (Nigiri Sushi)
Inside-Out California Rolls (Uramaki Sushi)
Spicy Tuna Rolls and Cucumber Rolls (Hosomaki)
Hand Roll (Temaki)

Here’s my sushi:

It may not be the best looking sushi – but it was DELICIOUS! This class didn’t have grades, but I’m giving myself an A+!

Novel Spaces

2010-03-19T23:22:00.004-05:00

I adore my laptop and smart phone, but sometimes I have to unplug and hide in Starbucks. I'm blogging about it over at Novel Spaces.

Join me!

Target Run: Liberty of London Edition

2010-03-15T07:46:00.019-05:00

Over the weekend, I gave into the floral-print frenzy of the Liberty of London for Target collection.

The plan had been to shop online with my Sunday morning coffee at my fingertips. However, once I started clicking – everything I wanted was already sold out.

So poured my joe into a to-go mug and zipped over to the closest Target. By then it was 10:30 am and store was rocking with shoppers pushing red buggy’s piled high with Liberty goodies.

I’d gone in for some accessories and a few housewares.

I hadn’t intended to buy clothes. The prints looked too busy for a middle-aged woman. But I tried on two tops that left me pleasantly surprised.

On the hanger, it looks like you need First Lady arms to wear these. Not at all. Now I’m not saying you can get away wearing them with bat wing flab, but you don’t have to be on friendly terms with the gym to look great in them. The halter-neck is very shoulder flattering.

It's dark and rainy here today, so the photo conditions aren't the best. Here are two photos from Target's site:

I think they’ll be perfect for a casual dinner out. I'll pair them with dark jeans and strappy, metallic sandals with a bit of a heel.

Unfortunately, they were sold out of the canisters, mug and teapot I wanted, but I did get the cereal bowl on my list. (Just one because Mr. Phyllis doesn’t eat cold food.)

I also picked up two bucket hats and a few (non Liberty) v-neck cotton tees in spring colors. I’m seriously considering growing out my relaxer in order to explore some bolder hair color options. If I decide to do it, I’m sure hats will come in handy this summer.

The tops were $19.99 each and the hats were $12.99 each. The tees are on sale this week for $6.

And while we’re talking Liberty of London, I’ll probably pass on their make-up collection for MAC Cosmetics. I ADORE the packaging, but the colors may be too cool for me.

Sooooo, what about you guys? Anybody pick up anything from either Target or MAC’s Liberty of London collections?

Grocery Store Style

2010-03-05T12:39:00.006-06:00

Gathering up my recyclable bags for a trip to the grocery store hasn’t been very stylish or exciting – until now.

This morning, I debuted my Lilly Pulitzer market bag at Kroger. Isn’t she gorgeous????

Even though it was stuffed with mundane items like cottage cheese, Cheerios and toilet paper, I couldn’t help feeling oh-so-chic as I exited the store.

Does Supernanny Help Folks With No Kids?

2010-02-17T12:48:00.005-06:00

I'm over at Novel Spaces today wishing my favorite nanny would drag me into my office. Come on over!

Novel Spaces

2010-02-04T11:01:00.004-06:00

Blogging about writing over at Novel Spaces today.

Join me!

Target Run

2010-02-01T09:45:00.014-06:00

Ahhhh, lucky me.

The other day I was in Target just as they were putting new spring purses on display. Hot pinks! Baby blues! Lime greens!

Each one about $25!

I’ll tell ya. I was in cheap pocketbook heaven. I grabbed one of those big red buggies and filled my cart to the brim.

Then I rolled my buggy over to the snack section for some PopChips and ran into Mr. Phyllis. Not a problem because I don’t mess with him when ESPN is on, and he doesn’t mess with me in Target.

He looked into my cart and his eyes narrowed. Not in a mean way, but in an I’m trying to remember way. He picks up the hot pink, patent leather, faux crocodile bag and says, “Don’t you have an expensive hot pink purse?”

I try playing dumb, but I can see the wheels of his brain turning. His eyes light up, and I know he’s recalled the Lilly Pulitzer bag with the price tags on it. “You’ve had it for two years. When are you going to start using it?”

So I put the pink bag back.

Then he picks up the green one. “Don’t you already have a bright green purse?” Yeah, I do and it looks like the one in my cart.

So I put back the green one.

I see him eyeing the blue and the orange bags, and I just toss them back on the display. Yeah, I have a blue Coach bag. Sigh. And an orange one.

Already, I’m thinking about my next Target trip – SOLO!

Believe it or not, I did make it out of there with a new purse. I bought a sleek black tote that I love so much, I snipped off the tags and started using it immediately. It’s large enough to hold my junk, but doesn’t overwhelm my petite (as in short, not thin) frame.

Merona Tote - Black

I can even fit my netbook inside, so no more having to wrestle with two bags to write in Starbucks.

I paid $19.99 for this tote at Target, but this week it’s on sale for $17.99.

Welcome to My World

2010-01-25T09:31:00.004-06:00

The editor's revision letter for my upcoming book (August 2010!) arrived. So I'm currently buried under this pile on my kitchen table. I'll be back to my already sporadic posting when I'm done.

Writing Lessons from Bootcamp

2010-01-20T12:38:00.005-06:00

Workout Bootcamp taught me some valuable writing lessons. I'm blogging about them over at Novel Spaces.

Drop by and say hello!

A Cure for the January Blues

2010-01-18T10:34:00.007-06:00

I don’t know about y’all, but up until a day ago I was experiencing some serious holiday withdrawal. I missed lavishly decorated Christmas trees and the twinkle of holiday lights. And I especially missed the decadent gold boxes of Godiva chocolates the hubs kept coming for my December birthday, wedding anniversary and Christmas.

January just seemed so cold and bland.

Fortunately, the solution to my post-holiday blahs was inside my local Sephora.

I crossed the threshold, and it didn’t take long for the bounce to return to my dragging footsteps. Mascara. Lipstick. Blush. Perfume. Honestly, who can be sad around all of those goodies!?!?

With my budget still feeling the strain of holiday splurges, I had to find a single item (yep, just one) that would keep me smiling beyond Sephora’s magical doors.

My choice? Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect lipgloss. I opted for Lurex Plum, which comes off as a soft, shimmery mauve on my lips.

Note I said shimmer, not sparkle. Being fortysomething, I’m wary of lipsticks and glosses with chunks of glitter that settle into the fine lines of aging lips and look awful as the color wears off.

Great shine. Good color payoff.

This impulse purchase has made its way to the front of my lip gloss rotation and just might overtake my precious Bobbi Brown Ruby Shimmer as my YLBB favorite!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T13:39:00.002-06:00

My Favorite Things: Writing Edition

2009-12-21T08:36:00.005-06:00

I'm over at Novel Spaces today blogging about my favorite writing things. If you want to see what I absolutely must have to write, come on over!

See you there.

Hanging Out With the Chick Lit Gurrl

2009-12-16T08:36:00.002-06:00

I've over at the ChickLitGurrl's blog - High On Lattes and Writing today blogging about writing. So if you get a breather from the holiday hubbub, please stop by and say hello.

See you there!

This Is What 47 Looks Like

2009-12-11T09:17:00.006-06:00

The above photo was hurriedly snapped earlier this week on my birthday. As you can see by the big red bull's eye in the background, I was itching to get inside my home-away-from-home and then on to my favorite sushi place.

Yep, this is what 47 looks like....

But not for long.

I began Bootcamp workout classes this week. I'm not positive if I'm the oldest (probably), but I'm definitely the slowest and the most out-of-shape. I ache in places I forget existed. And after this morning's 6:30 run/walk/sprints in 19-degree temps, I don't ever want to see a potato chip again.

Well, I'll keep y'all posted. Right now, I just want curl up with a bunch of fashion magazines and romance novels.

And The Winner Is...

2009-12-09T06:25:00.007-06:00

CONGRATULATIONS, LADYSILVER!!!! You're the winner of the $20 Starbucks card! Please e-mail me your address, and I'll get your card out ASAP! I'm phyllisbourne at gmail dot com.

And huge thanks to everyone who entered. Your comments were amazing!

If you've already read a Gwyneth Bolton book, then I don't have to tell you about her heartfelt stories and delicious heroes. If you haven't, I suggest you add a trip to the bookstore to your holiday shopping plans.

I’m in Hightower Heaven!

2009-12-03T09:02:00.013-06:00

Ya’ll already know I can be a big weirdo.

It’s no secret that I don’t like pie, can’t eat chicken unless it’s been McNugget-sized and sleep with the television blaring. Oh yeah, and my sister says I dress like Barbara Bush.

The weirdness doesn’t stop there. I also cannot read a romance novel that’s part of a series until I have EVERY BOOK IN THE SERIES in my possession. Then I read ‘em back-to-back. No cooking dinner. No phone calls. No damn interruptions!

Right now, I’m smack-dab in the middle of Gwyneth Bolton’s Hightower Honors four-book series. The books feature the oh-so-hot and heroic Hightower brothers. I’ve already read Protect and Serve and Make it Hot.

Now I’m taking a short break for a Starbucks run and to let ya’ll know how FABULOUS both books were before I dive into the second two, The Law of Desire and Sizzling Seduction on my Kindle.

Gwyneth’s books are chockfull of romance and passion. She’s also the master of taking readers on an emotional rollercoaster. I swear I loathed one of her subplot characters in Protect and Serve for half the book, only to burst into happy tears when the same character got a Cinderella-worthy ending.

And her heroes? Sigh.

I just want to jump between the pages of her books and gobble these Hightower brothers up!

In fact, these men have put me in such a good mood. I picked up a $20 gift card at Starbucks!

Wanna win it?

Here’s how:

1) Leave a comment telling me what YOU think makes a man hero material. (If you’re a guy, tell me what makes YOU a hero.)
2) Winner (name pulled from a hat) will be announced on or before Wed., December 9, 2009.
3) Drawing is void where prohibited.

Well, break’s over. It’s time for another Hightower man!

Review: CoverGirl LashBlast Length Mascara

2009-11-30T07:06:00.005-06:00

You’re on a date with a new guy.

He’s good-looking. He’s nice.

There’s nothing much wrong with him. However, there’s nothing to hold your interest either.

That’s pretty much the way I felt after my test drive of Cover Girl’s new Lash Blast Length mascara.

Meh. It’s okay.

This mascara’s promise is extremely long lashes that hold all day, and the new nylon formula boasts no-flaking.

My experience was so-so long lashes that held a few hours. However, I didn’t experience any flaking, which I usually do with mascaras. I also liked the longer brush on this one. It discovered tiny lashes, I didn’t even realize where there.

Still, I don’t think the good things about this mascara are enough to warrant a long-term relationship or even a second date.

If you’re just looking for an average daily mascara, with no bells and whistles, this will do fine. However, if you’re truly looking for longer lashes stick with Maybelline’s Lash Stiletto Ultimate Length Mascara.

Black Friday Haul Check-In

2009-11-28T08:37:00.015-06:00

I was well on my way to resisting the allure of Black Friday.

My car stayed parked in the garage all day. I didn’t even go to the grocery store to restock my dwindling supply of Diet Coke or those Late July Mini Cheese Crackers I can’t stop eating.

Success was oh-so-close.

Then around 11ish Friday night, I fired up the laptop for a quickie peek at Twitter. From there I ended up gawking at the two tops that have been in my J. Crew shopping cart for over a month now.

Both are in brown skin flattering colors and wearable year-round. I can go sleeveless or don a cardigan on cool days. At 20 percent off (yeah, I know it's not the deepest discount, but I'm been holding out for weeks) and free shipping, I couldn’t hold back my itchy submit order finger.

J. Crew’s Annalise Ruffle Cami in cinnamon spice and spicy olive.

That’s it for me. The rest of my shopping will be for restaurant gift cards, which my loved ones prefer to stuff.

Sooooo, check in and tell me all about your Black Friday haul?

Night At The Opera

2009-11-13T09:55:00.008-06:00

Okay, I’ll admit it.

Payback was what I had in mind when I initially dragged Mr. Phyllis to the opera. After all, I’ve been through outdoor sports stadium hell, watching baseball in the blazing sun and football in both snow and pouring rain.

Ahhhh, thank God for (indoor) basketball season, but I digress.

Never in a million years did I expect us BOTH to fall madly in love with opera. So we’re looking forward to Nashville Opera’s performance of The Fall of the House of Usher.

But what to wear?

The problem with special occasions is they don’t come around often. So if you’re like me you’re looking at your sparse dressy wardrobe and wondering, “Did I wear this one last time?”

Also, after sitting on my behind writing (and eating and eating), it’s not like I can fit into them anyway.

My solution was to pop by Target to see if they could help me look good on the cheap, and they didn’t let me down. The dress was $39.99 and so was the necklace. I already had shoes, pearl earrings and of course, Spanx.

Below is my first attempt at a Polyvore to illustrate my outfit.

Find me on Polyvore

Sooooo, would you ladies consider a discount retailer for a special occasion dress?

Review: Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick

2009-11-03T01:24:00.005-06:00

You don’t come across them often.

In fact, it’s more rare than a 99-percent off everything sale at your favorite department store. That’s right, it just doesn’t happen.

So when I came across a brand, new lipstick display at Target – untouched by dirty fingers and chapped lips – I pounced on it before the red-shirted salesperson could finish setting it up!

Yet my excitement was tempered with the fact I’ve never had much luck with discount and drug store brands. I find their formulas to be either too dry or oily, and the colors to have little or no staying power.

I should have taken the pristine display as a hint that my luck had changed, because I am loving Maybelline’s Color Sensational lip colors!

Glides on smoothly, great color payoff and a variety of gorgeous shades that will make you think you’re in a department store. I picked Broadway Bronze and Mauve-ulous. But I wish I’d also bought the colors I waffled and then passed on.

So if you’re pocketbook isn’t quite up to a M.A.C. attack, definitely give one of these color-rich lippies a try.

If I Can Do It, So Can You!

2009-11-01T10:39:00.010-06:00

We’ve all heard the voice.

You know, the one deep inside that whispers:

When I get time, I am going to write a novel.

Sorry. The magic time fairy is a no show. Even after you’re published, writing time is something you grab, sneak and even steal.

So why not grab, sneak and steal that time starting NOW!?!?

That’s right. Open up your word processing program and just freaking do it!

Why now?

It’s National Novel Writing Month! You’ll have tons of support and of plenty of company.

Hey! What are you waiting on? Get over to www.nanowrimo.org to sign up, then get busy writing!

No excuses. I read your blogs. I KNOW you can do it!

P.S. If you want to be my friend over there, just click here.

You Can Bury Me In Target’s Parking Lot

2009-10-30T11:12:00.010-05:00

We all gotta go sometime. When I do, just jackhammer a hole in Target’s parking lot and stick me in it.

Nope, I won’t mind shoppers rolling over my grave in search of their own red bull’s-eyed bliss.

So here’s what I’m planning to toss in my cart on my next Target run:

Olay Regenerist Advanced Anti-Aging Eye Roller- $18.99

Merona® Women's Wool Peacoat Jacket – Teal - $40.00

Merona® Collection Petites Printed Cardigan – $29.99

Women's Mossimo® Valda Ruffle Flats – Cranberry - $24.99

Sizzling Seduction by Gwyneth Bolton - $5.99

Now if my $$$ gets short, the shoes will probably go first. Hmmm...then maybe the eyeroller. But the clothes and Gwyneth's book are definitely headed for the cash register!

Is a Target run on your schedule? If so, what’s in your big red buggy?

Where Romance and Make-up Collide

2009-10-30T11:06:00.005-05:00

I’m streamlining ya’ll.

First, the beauty blog's retired. Well… kinda. It’s more like I'm writing beauty posts over here now under one umbrella.

Also, from now on I’ll be writing my romance novels as Phyllis Bourne. Don’t worry; Mr. PBW is still my real-life hero. However, writing under my full (and long) name has been too cumbersome.

What does this mean blogwise?

For beauty lovers – plenty of beauty product and make-up reviews, but I’m branching out to include fashions I’m lusting over. You’re already in Target, might as well pick up a cute shirt to go with your new lipstick. And probably some candy!

For romance readers - I LOVE romance novels! My bookshelf, Kindle and iPod (audio) are crammed with ‘em. So there’ll be posts about the fun stuff that goes into writing one (like the Parisian Patisserie and chocolate truffle cooking classes I sighed up for to research my new WIP) as well some of my own reader favorites.

For everyone – Target is calling my name. See ya next post!

Recession Confessions, Anyone?

2009-09-01T06:37:00.000-05:00

Even if ya’ll are lucky enough to have a great-paying jobs and savings accounts brimming with cash, this long-running recession we’re in has to make you a bit nervous.

It’s eerie to drive past the mall on a Saturday afternoon and only see a smattering cars parked in the massive lot. And it’s downright scary to be seated immediately in Red Lobster on once standing-room-only Friday nights.

I won’t lie, these tight economic times have made me a little weird.

There was a time when gift cards (for me, the very best gift!) to my favorite stores and restaurants would send me running out the door eager to spend or eat up every dime.

Not anymore.

The fistful of giftcards I received on my birthday (nine months ago) have remained untouched and unspent.

“But why?????” You (and Mr. PBW) ask.

Because the recession-induced weirdo in me is saving them for hard times. If the worst happens, I’ll be able to go out to dinner and pick-up a little treat. Mr. PBW nods silently at my rationalization, but his eyes say, “If you don’t hurry up and spend those cards, I will!”

Sigh.

Okay, ya’ll. I’ve made my “this recession is turning me into a weirdo” confession. Now it’s your turn.

Are you in Sephora rehab? Stretching your hair salon visits? Buying more Maybelline than MAC?

You’re among friends here, so ‘fess up!

How has the recession changed you?

Still Writing...

2009-08-04T13:49:00.000-05:00

Ya’ll probably already guessed I’m either at my kitchen table or over at Starbucks working on my new book.

Still, I hope you’ll come visit me at Novel Spaces, where I’m blogging about my dream of writing (and buying cute shoes) in Paris.

See you there!

Neutrogena To The Rescue

2009-07-06T08:59:00.000-05:00

You know that sinking feeling.

The one where you’ve arrived at your vacation destination, only to discover you’ve left your favorite beauty product at home.

Well, just buy another one, you say.

Hmmm… not so fast.

That might be feasible with a $7 Revlon lipgloss or even my $25 Olay night cream. However, the thought of kicking out $53 for a new tub of my forgotten Kerastase Nutritive Masquintense conditioner makes me a bit queasy.

Don’t get me wrong. Kerastase has infused for my relaxed, colored-treated, thinning hair with bouncy, swingy life. And I will re-purchase it – but only after I’ve scraped every precious, pricey drop from the bottom of the jar.

So I dropped by CVS to see if they could provide me with a temporary solution. After a half hour of sifting through various conditioners, I decided on Neutrogena’s Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask.

Still, I have to tell you, I wasn’t expecting much for my $6.99. I certainly never thought I’d be blown away by this conditioning and moisturizing powerhouse.

After shampooing, I slathered on this thick, deliciously-scented mask and let it sit on my hair for 5 minutes (hey, I’m on vacation and don’t have all day!). I rinsed and went through my normal blow dry/flat iron routine.

This conditioner is pretty good substitute for my much loved regular conditioner, and it left my mane feeling and looking healthy.

I’ll keep a tub of it on hand for times when I have to cut into my hair product budget to buy shoes!

And a big THANK YOU to Chic & Sassy Designs for my new blog makeover!

Holiday Food Hangover?

2009-07-04T23:15:00.000-05:00

Overindulge on deliciously naughty foods at your holiday picnic?

Well, get on over to Novel Spaces, where I’m blogging about my adventures aboard the healthy snack bandwagon.

See you there!

Product Review: Stila Kajal Eye Liner Pencil

2009-06-23T09:32:00.000-05:00

An entire hour spent sifting through goodies at Sephora, only to end up at the counter with a yawn eye pencil.

Yeah, I know… zzzz.

But hold on a sec, before you go clicking away to another blog to eyeball a more exciting haul, this modest purchase just might have been my best in months!

I first put Stila’s Kajal Eye Liner on my “check it out” list after seeing it featured as a Product of the Month on Mischo Beauty's blog. Now when a magazine recommends something… well, let’s just say I’ve been burned. But when a fellow beauty blogger gives a product the thumbs up, I’m on it like the semi-annual sale at Nordstrom.

This soft, (and shockingly!) creamy pencil glides on in single sweep. It leaves a rich, smooth line I thought was only possible with liquid or gel eyeliners. And no pulling or tugging at the sensitive skin around my fortysomething eyes.

Best of all, it stays put until I remove it at night.

Stila’s Kajal Eye Liner has given this “mascara only” gal’s eye game a much-needed WOW!

The pencil is available in eight shades ranging from the stardard Onyx (black) to the more adventurous Amethyst (deep plum).

My pick? Tiger’s Eye, a deep brown.

Stila’s Kajal Eye Liners are $18 a pop and available at Sephora.

My Books

2009-06-18T10:34:00.039-05:00

Operation Prince Charming
Phyllis Bourne

Dorchester Publishing
ISBN-10: 0843963905
ISBN-13: 978-0843963908

2010 RT Book Reviews Nominee For Best Multicultural Romance

Detective Hunter Coleman has a lesson to learn. A lesson in etiquette. At least that’s what his suddenly wealthy girlfriend thinks. Now that he has to entertain socialites, Hunter is going to have to brush up on his p’s and q’s. This detective’s next assignment is a “Manners Makeover” at the Spencer School of Etiquette.

But Hunter finds he is more interested in his lessons than he thought he would be. Actually, it’s his teacher, Ali Spencer, who has caught his interest. All he seems to think about is smudging her perfect lipstick with long, hot kisses and upsetting her practiced poise with the most improper proposals. With his fiancée out hunting bigger game, Hunter realizes that good manners are no match for basic instincts, and he’s got all the charm he needs to win the woman he really loves.

"By New Year’s Day” in The Holiday Inn
Phyllis Bourne Williams, Farrah Rochon & Stefanie Worth

Dorchester Publishing
ISBN-10: 0-8439-6157-0
ISBN-13: 978-0-8439-6157-7

2009 Beacon Award WINNER Best Romance Novella
2009 Golden Quill Finalist for Best Novella

Accolades for The Holiday Inn

“Williams pens a touching story.” ~~ RT Bookclub

“Holiday Inn is excellent. Each story was refreshing, funny, romantic, and realistic. Each couple was faced with dilemmas that are constantly being asked. I found myself rooting for each couple as they struggled emotionally to hold on to each other. This is the perfect holiday story for anyone who loves and believes in happily ever after.”    ~~ Priscilla C. Johnson  APOOO BookClub

“Just in time for the holiday season, readers will enjoy these tales of everyday challenges and everlasting love.” ~~ Anthonette Dotson, Romance Reviews Today

“With a nod to It’s A Wonderful Life, these three whimsical second chances uses the magic of The Holiday Inn to rekindle lost dreams and mend broken relationships. The three couples are developed enough so that their differences seem real, which in turn makes each pair’s scenario plausible. Well written, fans will enjoy spending time at the enchanting Holiday Inn (even without Bing).” ~~ Harriet Klausner

A Moment on the Lips
Dorchester Publishing
ISBN-10: 0843956593
ISBN-13: 978-0843956597

2006 Published Laurie Award Finalist
2006 Single Titles Reviewer Choice Award Nominee
2005 RWA Golden Heart Finalist
(as The Midas Touch)

Praise for A Moment on the Lips

“A Moment on the Lips is a classic page turner; an updated version of a timeless love story that keeps you interested until you turn the last page. Keep this one around for when you need a refreshing look at love!” ~~Heather Nestorick, eCataromance.com

“A Moment on the Lips is refreshing…the subtle romance is sweet and enjoyable.” ~~ Romantic Times Bookclub

“Ms. Williams delivers a story full of hope and second chances.” ~~RomanceJunkies.com

“…a good old-fashioned romance, where the hero and the heroine take their time to build something meaningful. The whole feel of the story makes the reader slow down and enjoy the journey. It was quite refreshing.” ~~Delores Hines, SORMAG

Contact Me

2009-06-18T10:34:00.035-05:00

I'm phyllisbourne over at gmail.

About Me

2009-06-18T10:33:00.003-05:00

A native of Chicago’s Southside, Phyllis Bourne began her writing career as a crime reporter for the Ft. Wayne News-Sentinel and the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. After years of chasing cops and criminals, she left reporting to write about life’s sweeter side.

Nowadays her stories are filled with heart-stopping heroes and happy endings. Phyllis is a 2001 and 2005 RWA Golden Heart finalist. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found at a make-up counter feeding her lipstick addiction. Phyllis currently resides in middle-Tennessee.

photo credit: Lee Isabel/Studio16

Back to Blogging!

2009-05-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

I’ve finally emerged from my lonely writing cave to do some blogging. Unfortunately, not here.

So come on over to Killer Fiction Writer’s, where I’m bitching… uh, I mean talking about the pressure to have a bikini-ready body at 40-plus.

See you there!

I’m a Cougar… well, kinda

2009-03-17T08:44:00.000-05:00

It happened again, ya’ll.

Groan. Mr. PBW was mistaken for a young twentysometing.

We were in Wal-Mart picking up bananas. (NOTE: Middle-aged and elderly folks love bananas!)

Anyhoo, a clean-cut guy walks up to the hubby and says, “Son, you ever thought about a career in the army?”

Stunned, both of us gawk at him a moment because we both know Mr. PBW is at least 15 (maybe 20) years older than this recruiter. And even with the revised age limits - too damn old for the military.

“Man, do you know how old I am?” Mr. PBW asks. He tells him, and the guy nearly stumbles back on his table full of brochures from the shock.

Me? I was overdue for both my color and relaxer touch-ups, and my kinky, gray roots were very visible. So I got the hell outta there before I was mistaken for my husband’s mama and asked to sign an army permission slip!

The last time something like this happen, I remember heading straight for the beauty section crying, “Waaaah, I wanna look 21 too!”

This time I couldn’t wait 6-weeks for miracle face goop results to kick in. I needed instant gratification.

Instead of fighting it, I decided to embrace being a (faux) cougar – you know, an over-40 woman with a guy half her age on her arm.

To celebrate my cougar-on-the-prowl status, I got on the internet and clicked my way to animal print shoe happiness.

First stop, Target.com where I found the Merona® Meadow Ballet Flats in Leopard for $24.99. Then it was on to iQvc.com, where I found a pair of “Believe” Yellow Box sling backs for $59 (these were on clearance and are now sold out). Finally, I ordered the Malindi Leopard’s for $34.99 at croc.com (yep, they’re really comfy crocs!).

Oh, did I mention that Mr. PBW is OLDER than me?

Hmmm, just the thought of it makes me want to click over to Nordstrom.com for more shoes!

Which Ones Do You Love Best?

2009-03-11T11:45:00.000-05:00

Here’s the scenario:

The sheriff is at your door. There’s a natural disaster headed your way and you must evacuate immediately. Thank goodness your emergency bag of necessities is packed and ready to go.

You bat your expertly applied MAC lashes at our handsome sheriff, and he graciously agrees to give you an additional minute to gather your most precious beauty items. Which ones do you pick?

In other words, what are your most prized beauty possessions????

Since the sheriff started at my place, I’ll tell you what I grabbed.

First I ran to my home office and snatched up my plastic-wrapped July 2008, all black issue of Italian Vogue. I went through hell last year locating a copy, but it was totally worth it!

As I left my office, I glanced over at my Obama bobble-head doll and groaned. "Sorry, Mr. President, but you simply aren’t a beauty item so I had to leave you behind." (He nodded his understanding.)

Next, I hotfooted it to the bathroom and snatched open the top drawer of my vanity. There I found my beloved Yves Saint Laurent Palette Esprit Couture compact from 2007, inspired by the iconic gown from his Fall 1983 couture collection, still in it’s packaging. (I wouldn’t dream of actually applying it. Too me, it’s more than make-up. It’s a beautiful piece of French art.)

Now it’s your turn. What beauty favorites would you retrieve? And remember you only have a minute.

Review: Sedu Revolution Nano Ceramic Tourmaline Flat Iron

2009-02-13T07:37:00.000-06:00

I adored my CHI.

Was absolutely smitten with the FHI.

However, I didn’t know the meaning of true love until I took a chance and bought the Sedu Revolution Nano Ceramic Tourmaline flat iron.

Now I know you’re thinking.

Isn’t that a $140 flat iron?

And wasn’t that YOU whining about your dwindling retirement account just one post ago?

Believe me, the same thoughts popped into my head after my out-of-control finger hit the “submit order” button on Folica.com’s website.

“You need to take your foot and kick your own ass.” I muttered.

Then it arrived in the mail.

Now I’m patting myself on the back for the great buy!

The first thing that differentiated it from my previous high-end irons is it comes with a heatproof pouch/mat (great for traveling) and an instructional DVD. Usually, I would have tossed the DVD aside, but this time I took the time to watch. Hey, when you’re spending this kind of money you want to know everything it can do.

The DVD is broken down into four mini-tutorials - straightening, curls, waves and creating volume.

I was most interested in creating volume, because my big problem with flat ironing is it leaves my hair well, flat.

So let me break down why I’m singing the praises of the Sedu:

- Heats up quickly.
- Adjustable temperature setting.
- The smooth plates practically glide through my hair.
- No dried out, frizzy ends.
- Reduced my usual flat iron time to less than 15 minutes.
- I don’t have to use tons of products, just a dab of thermal protectant.
- Seems to be gentler on my relaxed, color treated mane.

In summary, the Sedu is the closest I’ve come to getting near salon results at home. With this awesome iron, I am able to recreate a lot of the volume, bounce and even the shine I usually have to rely on a stylist to achieve.

I ordered my Sedu with one-inch plates from Folica.com for $139.95. It also available in hot pink, which I wanted but was too cheap to kick out the additional ten bucks.

* FYI – I’ve been growing out the short cut in my profile pic, so I have more hair.

A Recessionista Fairy Tale

2009-02-03T21:01:00.000-06:00

Once upon a time there was a beauty-product loving princess who wouldn’t dream of stepping into the bath without her favorite $35 a tube perfumed shower gel, then rubbing a squirt of $80 a bottle anti-aging lotion onto her shower-fresh skin.

Ahhhh, the good life. The stock market was hitting unprecedented highs, and our princess was thinking early retirement.

Then the recession hit, leaving the pricey product princess’ old age nest egg in the toilet.

Faced with the possibility of pushing a shopping cart through the park in her golden years, or even worse having to smile at homely babies...er, um... adorable cherubs at the entrance of her local Walmart, our princess had to make some cutbacks.

Now her bath regimen consists of the budget-friendly Suave Naturals Body Wash in Tropical Coconut and Suave Skin Therapy Cocoa Butter with Shea Lotion.

Both discount potions are rich, creamy and smell wonderful, making the affordable feel surprisingly luxurious. Best of all, at about $2 each, they leave her with cash to stash!

Don’t be shy fellow princesses. Come on, tell me. What are your recession concessions?

Happy (Belated) New Year!

2009-01-26T08:01:00.000-06:00

Soooo, how’s that New Year’s resolution coming along?

By late-January I’m usually scratching my head trying to remember what the hell I resolved to do. But so far I’m managing to:

1. Get off my non-morning person behind and hit the elliptical at 5:30 am. (Workout clothes are my new jammies.)

2. Glue the same behind to a chair at Starbucks and write seven days a week.

3. Return to Weight Watchers. (I’m a wayward Lifetimer 20 pounds over goal. Yikes!)

However, I’m not doing so well with:

1. Resisting Late July Organic Mini-cheese Sandwich Crackers. They stopped carrying them in my grocery store, so I order them by the crate off Amazon (see below).

2. Controlling my itchy “submit order” trigger finger on Sephora, J. Crew and Amazon’s websites.

3. Dejunking my purse. I cleaned it out New Year’s Day, but it’s back to being heavier than the trunk that accompanied me to college.

Well, how are the rest of you doing with the promises you made to yourself for 2009?

After-Christmas Sales, Anyone?

2008-12-25T13:41:00.000-06:00

While the day after Thanksgiving is the biggest shopping day of the year, savvy shoppers know it’s the day after Christmas that’s best for scooping up fabulous goodies at rock bottom prices.

Or maybe you’re itching to spend a gift card someone oh-so-thoughtfully gave you.

Me? I know EXACTLY what I want, cause I’ve been eyeballing J. Crew’s Bouclé tweed short scarf coat for weeks. But the sale price of $229 (marked down from $350), is still a bit much for a jacket that’s more cute than functional.

So starting at midnight I’ll be checking J.Crew’s website obsessively waiting for this baby to be marked down further and hoping it doesn’t sell out in my size.

Now tell me, what’s on your after-Christmas sale shopping list?

Review: CG's Exact Eyelights Mascara

2008-12-22T08:16:00.000-06:00

I wonder if it really works?

That's the first question that popped into my head when I came across Cover Girl's Exact Eyelights mascara in the grocery store. The second? Can that mediocre-singing Rihanna (who's pictured in the display) get any cuter?

I grabbed the one for brown eyes and tossed it in my buggy, because as I've explained to Mr. PBW - if it comes from the supermarket it's not really yet another beauty product, now is it?

Anyhoo, like me, I'll bet you're dying to know if Cover Girl's eye-brightening claim is indeed true, and this mascara inspired every man I've come across while wearing it break into a chorus of Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl”?

Uh...duh…um...welllll, I dunno?????

I think it makes the brown in my eyes a bit more rich and intense. Then again, that may be because I'm staring into them in the mirror when I usually don't. Can’t decide?

However, in pulling normal mascara duties this one wasn’t very impressive. It clumped. It failed to lift and separate my lashes. Then to top it off, it smudged within a half hour of application.

If you decide to go for it anyway, this mascara comes in four shades:

Black Gold – for hazel eyes
Black Sapphire – for blue eyes
Black Pearl – for brown eyes
Black Ruby – for green eyes

I paid $7.50 for it at Kroger.

Giving Thanks!

2008-11-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

Foodwise, the Thanksgiving holiday is a big bust for me.

I don’t like turkey (too birdy), ham (too piggy), stuffing (too bready), cranberry sauce (too slimy) or any kind of pie (again, too slimy). Honestly, I’d rather have fish sticks (yummy!).

But that doesn’t mean I’m not filled with gratitude this holiday. I’m totally thankful for my beauty blogging buddies who have me looking better in my forties than I ever did in my twenties.

Sooooo, a huge Thanksgiving burst of appreciation to:

Beautylogic – If you followed her advice and grabbed NYC’s Sun 2 Sun Bronzing Powder, you had the most gorgeous sun kissed cheeks this summer for only $5. It’s a bargain bronzer that really gives a department store look!

Anti-Hair Slave and Nessasary Makeup – I got turned on to Humectress Luxe Ultimate Moisturizing Leave-In Spray by these blogs. And I love the stuff. I opt to spray a bit on my hair before I wrap it for the night. It keeps my super dry mane feeling smooth, silky and moisturized.

Make-up By RenRen – I was a RenRen beauty stalker long before I started my own blog. Her brilliant video tutorials are like having a make-up artist on stand-by 24/7. She makes tricky techniques look so easy, doesn’t she?

Karen of a Certain Age – Having to don unfashionable reading glasses made me feel oh-so-old, until this blog introduced me to the oh-so-adorable Eyebobs line of reading glasses. I opted for the Smitten Kitten cat-eye glasses in tortoise. They make reading after-40 both chic and easy!

Clumps of Mascara and The Home Spa Goddess – I was never much of an eyeshadow girl, but their recommendation of Urban Decay’s Eyeshadow Primer Potion ($16 at Sephora) has totally ramped up my eye game. This stuff works! Okay, I know I’ve read about the wonders of this product on even more blogs, however these two stand out in my mind because their posts included videos.

J.CrewAholics and Brown Girl Gumbo - Your blogs make me spend, spend, spend. I’ve bought so much because of ya’ll, I can’t even begin to list the items. So why am I thankful? Because your great clothing picks are going to make me the most fashionable woman in the poor house!

Product Junkie Diva – I always walked right past the Aveda store at the mall, because I didn’t think their products would work on my hair. Wrong! After reading reviews of their Damage Remedy line on this blog, I gave it a try. The results were amazing. Pricey, but worth every dime.

Coup de Coeur – For getting me back into my Bobbi Brown pot rouges. I’d forgotten how much pretty was packed into those little pots until I saw photos of your gorgeous Bobbi makeover. Now I'm using them all the time.

Calming Corners – This blog is my daily reminder to nurture both my body and spirit. Always good tips for feeling great - inside and out.

Keep in mind, I only included a tiny sampling of the wonderful tips I’ve gotten from so many awesome beauty bloggers. If your blog wasn’t mentioned, it’s not because I’m not thankful. But this was post was turning into a book and I had to wrap it up to get ready for Friday - the biggest shopping day of the year!

Just Write It!

2008-11-01T07:12:00.000-05:00

Do you think you've got a novel in you?

Well, there’s no better month than November to get it out.

National Novel Writing Month also known as Nanowrimo begins today!

My Starbucks card is loaded (for endless cups of black coffee) and my laptop is fully charged.

The rules: Write 50,000 words by the end of the November.

The supplies: Perseverance and something to write on.

The prize: A certificate of completion and the satisfaction of knowing you authored a book.

Your novel can be any genre – sci fi, fantasy, horror, romance, mystery or a combination of all of ‘em.

I wrote my first Nanowrimo book in 2004. I didn’t do it for an editor or publication. I wrote it for me. And I’m just as proud of it as I am my published works.

Will your novel be good? Probably not. The first drafts of bestselling authors suck too. Just write it. You can always fix it in December – or not.

Can you do it? Hell, yes! I’ve read your blogs, and you guys are a fantastic bunch of writers!

So click on over to www.nanowrimo.org and sign up!

Good luck! See you (and your novels!) at the end of the month!

Help Me Lighten Up!

2008-10-20T07:14:00.000-05:00

When it comes to traveling, I adhere to the old Boy Scout motto – BE PREPARED.

So when a power outage at a hotel we were staying in engulfed us in darkness, I simply felt around the pitch-black room for my suitcase and retrieved my trusty flashlight.

And that’s not all I’m prepared to handle.

Flight delayed? I pack an extra cell phone charger in my carry on.

Awkward outlets in hotel room? I pack an extension cord.

Stinky rental car? I pack scented dryer sheets to put under the seats.

Paper cut? I pack a mini-first aid kit.

Bored? I pack UNO cards. (Who doesn’t love UNO?).

Jump bad with cops? I pack a video camera, so you’ll be able to watch your butt whipping over and over again on CNN.

These are just a few things I pack, and we haven’t even got to shoes, purses, outfits, underwear, toiletries, make-up, iPod, my MacBook, blah, blah, blah…

Just the other day, we were on the expressway headed to the airport when an 18-wheeler whizzed past. Mr. PBW said, “Look Phyl, he’s hauling your suitcase.”

I couldn’t say a damn thing.

He was absolutely right. My suitcases weigh a ton.

So today I’m turning to my beauty family for help.

Give me your best tips for traveling light?

But remember, the flashlight is non-negotiable!

Thrifty Chic, Anyone?

2008-10-07T09:41:00.000-05:00

Last week I rode the country’s biggest rollercoaster without leaving the house.

Watching my retirement account gave me the rocket speeds, hairpin turns and 400-foot plummets of an amusement park ride - with none of the fun. And like a real coaster, I screamed throughout the experience and wanted to throw up afterwards.

Now I’m a good saver, but recent financial headlines have shown me I’m going to have to be an even better one.

So how do you balance beauty and your budget?

Me? I washed my face and slathered on a coat of Freeman’s Cucumber  Facial Peel Off Mask ($3.99 at most drug and discount stores). Then I reached in the cabinet for two Lipton tea bags. I dipped them in hot water a few moments, before plunging them in ice water.

Turning off the financial news, I kicked back and covered my computer-weary eyes with the chilled tea bags. Fifteen minutes later I peeled away the mask and discarded the tea bags.

The results: revitalized skin and refreshed eyes. All for a few cents!

Now it’s your turn. Clue me in on your tips to keep the glamour going in the midst of economic uncertainty.

Give Me More!

2008-09-30T06:08:00.000-05:00

When it comes to dessert, helping yourself to seconds might be perceived as greedy. However, beautywise it’s the ultimate compliment.

Here are a few stellar performers that keep me reaching for seconds:

Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Ageless Daily Moisturizer SPF 30 ($19.99 at Target) - I initially balked at the price, but mes amis (← picking up French from Amina’s très chic bilingual blog) this is department store moisturizer in a drug store bottle. It’s creamy and hydrating without leaving an oily sheen on your face. To top it all off, it offers major sun protection. Keep in mind, my skin is dry. This moisturizer may be a bit much for oily or breakout prone complexions. And I’m not the only one loving this moisturizer; Fitness magazine gave it kudos in their October 2008 issue.

Kera Care Humecto Creme Conditioner – Forget the 8 oz bottle, I buy this deep conditioner by the 5lb tub! It infuses my relaxed, color-treated mane with much needed moisture. I apply it after shampooing; sit under a heated dryer for 15-20 minutes, rinse and style. Or just hand it over to my stylist and let her do the work. Either way, I get the same soft, silky, manageable results. If I can’t find this conditioner at my local Walmart beauty salon, I order it from Amazon. Prices vary.

bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation ($25 at Sephora) – I was sucked into the cult of Bare Escentuals while watching QVC at 3 o’clock in the morning, and I’ve been a loyal member ever since. Fresh, natural and pretty, this make-up truly gives a “your skin only better” look. My skin on the dry side and initially I was hesitant to try a power foundation, but I haven’t experienced any flaking. One caveat, it travels messy. Bare Escentuals makes a travel case for on-the-go application. I’ve tried it, but don’t recommend it.

MAC Lipstick in “O” ($14.00) – A MAC make-up artist introduced me to this shade in 1995 and my love affair with it is still going strong. MAC calls it an intense purplish-red with metallic golden shimmer, but don’t let that scare you. I call it a great shade for everyone - from Heidi Klum to Alex Wek.

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Lipgloss in Ruby Sugar ($20.00) – I can see your eye rolls through the computer screen. “Again, with the Ruby Sugar,” you’re saying. But I can’t help it. The stuff always looks great on! Again, Bobbi calls it soft red, but on me it’s a pinky mauve with a subtle shimmer. I keep a tube in my make-up bag, another in my purse and an extra in my laptop case. (Oh, and three new tubes in a drawer in case of emergency!)

Well, that’s my list. What’s yours? What super products do you buy over and over again?

Christmas in September

2008-09-22T07:02:00.000-05:00

It’s 80-degrees today, but it feels like Christmas!

No, Santa didn’t drop by early with a box of goodies from Sephora. My author copies of THE HOLIDAY INN arrived!!!!

Just like I am with my beauty reviews, I’ll be totally honest with ya’ll - it’s the best book ever! All three stories ROCK!

Okay, I may be a tiny bit biased, so here’s what reviewers are saying:

5-stars - Holiday Inn is excellent. Each story was refreshing, funny, romantic, and realistic. Each couple was faced with dilemmas that are constantly being asked. I found myself rooting for each couple as they struggled emotionally to hold on to each other. This is the perfect holiday story for anyone who loves and believes in happily ever after. -- Priscilla C. Johnson, APOOO BookClub

5-stars - With a nod to It’s A Wonderful Life, these three whimsical second chances uses the magic of the HOLIDAY INN to rekindle lost dreams and mend broken relationships. The three couples are developed enough so that their differences seem real, which in turn makes each pair’s scenario plausible. Well written, fans will enjoy spending time at the enchanting Holiday Inn (even without Bing). -- Harriet Klausner

4-stars (HOT) - In these three holiday stories relationships are examined, repaired and enhanced with the magical backdrop of a winter retreat. The situations feel real, the characters are well developed and the stories will draw you in. – Romantic Times Bookclub

Huge thanks to Dorchester Publishing for allowing me to write about New Years, which is my absolute favorite holiday. For more on my novella in THE HOLIDAY INN – “By New Year’s Day”, check out the bookshelf page on my author website. More info on Farrah and Stefanie’s novellas can be found at www.farrahrochon.com and www.stefanieworth.com.

Amazon.com is shipping copies now. (Hint, click on the book covers on the right!) Look for it in bookstores nationwide September 30th.

Come Visit Me!

2008-09-19T09:48:00.000-05:00

No post today, but I'm a guest on fellow blogger and writer Kwana's blog - Kwana Writes.

So please come visit and leave a comment. It's not like you're not going to be over there anyway getting your Project Runway scoop.

Oh, and if you're wondering why I look different in the photo. I paid a lot of $$$ for those retouched, erase my crows feet and wrinkles photos, and I going to use 'em until I'm 90!

Hit It And Forget It

2008-09-15T07:15:00.000-05:00

You knew the rules up front. It was just a one night stand.

Still, you got a taste of some good stuff and stupidly allowed yourself to fall in love.

Now you’re devastated.

“There are plenty of fish in the sea.” Mom tries comforting you with the same tired cliché she used back when you were dumped by a high school boyfriend.

Your best friend is fed-up with your constant whining. “Girl, just move on,” she huffs.

But how can you? It was sooooo wonderful while it lasted.

True make-up junkies already know what I’m talking about, and it’s not a night of hot sex with a gorgeous stranger.

This is a lot tougher to get over.

It’s those @#%! limited edition make-up colors.

Bobbi Brown loved me and left me with both her violet and chocolate face palettes.

MAC did it to me with Happening Gal lipglass and Fab blush from the Barbie Loves MAC collection. Then did it again with Adventuresome, a pretty mauve with pearl frost from the Raquel Welch Icon collection.

Another wham-bam-thank-you-mam was Mauritius, a limited edition shade of Chanel’s Aqualumiere Sheer Lipshine.

I can’t take it anymore, I vow as I slick on a coat of the lovely Liqueur from the Cult of Cherry collection. No more limited editions for me!

Then again, doesn’t MAC’s Manish Arora collection debut next month? And I wonder what Nars is up too????

Hmmm, maybe Mom was right. There are always more fish in the sea.

The Real Fountain of Youth

2008-09-12T08:45:00.000-05:00

Every girl is crazy about her daddy. So why does mine warrant a post on an anti-aging beauty blog?

Because he also a hero in the battle against Father Time.

In his 50s, an age when most father’s are welcoming grandchildren, Dad was sandwiched between helping his ailing parents and taking care of his younger wife and two small kids.

Then to top it off, he started to feel the first symptoms of arthritis creep into his hands.

As a WWII combat veteran, he’s seen some awful things. However, I don’t think anything compared to watching his parent’s health deteriorate.

So at 50-something, he quit smoking and shunned fast food. He also donned running shoes. And he stuck to it, completing two marathons in his 70s.

“I’m not doing this for me,” he’s always said. “I’m doing it for you.”

I didn’t get it then, but I do now.

Today he turned 86-years-old.

And we aren’t hauling him to doctors every week or to the pharmacy (he’s not on ANY medication). Nor are we buying him Depends.

Right now he’s at work. When he gets off his plan is to run or hit the golf course. Then he and my mom are going out for dinner.

So as much as I’d love to believe the secret to looking great is in a jar of pricey wrinkle cream, my dad has taught me better. Hopefully, I can follow his example - so he won't have to buy me Depends when I'm 86!

Can You Pick Just One?

2008-09-06T12:27:00.000-05:00

Here’s the scenario: After a series of interviews you’re a finalist for the beauty director job at Vogue magazine. YAY! Congratulations on making it this far!

However, today is your final interview, and it’s with the magazine’s editor-in-chief (think Meryl Streep in The Devil Wear’s Prada).

She has only one question for you:

What is the best product in your make-up and beauty arsenal?

That’s right. She wants you to narrow your goodies down to one super product and tell her all about it.

I’ll go first, because I have no qualms about swiping this plum position away from you!

My pick is MAC Cosmetics Slimshine lipstick. These sleek lipsticks are the complete package – creamy, shiny, long-lasting and packed with color. This lippie is the perfect cross between a lipstick and lipgloss. All for $14.50.

My shades? Most Wanted and Pleasing.

Every time I apply Slimshine lipstick I look at the tube and ask, “Where have you been all my life?”

Well, the editor-in-chief says she’ll take my comments into consideration, but she has other beauty lovers to ask the very same question.

Sooooo, don’t keep her waiting. What product is your number one?

Review: Bare Naturale Luminous Lengthening Mascara

2008-08-27T11:41:00.000-05:00

I wholeheartedly agree with one of my favorite bloggers, the oh-so-classy PCD of The Pretty Circle. You simply can’t have enough mascara. That’s why, despite having at least a dozen tubes, I didn’t think twice about tossing L’oreal’s Bare Naturale Luminous Lengthening Mascara into my shopping cart at Target the other day.

Like a lot of mascaras, this one promises noticeably longer, luminous lashes smudgeproof, flakeproof blah, blah, blah. In other words, nothing we haven’t all heard before.

What makes this one different? It also boasts shine infusing minerals, conditioning vitamins and is both fiber and paraben-free!

Cool, huh?

Well, it would be if this mascara weren’t a bit too natural. Two coats and it looked as if I hadn’t bothered putting any on. The lengthening effect was minimal, and it didn’t hold my eyelash curl. To make matters worse, an hour after application it smudged.

So while I still believe you can never have enough mascaras, I won’t be adding this one to my collection. If you do, I paid $7.50 for it at Target.

Instant Refreshers

2008-08-21T10:57:00.000-05:00

Stayed up late watching the Olympics again, and now you’re paying the price?

Or maybe your job is just plain boring.

Either way, you can barely keep your eyes open, and your head is about to slam against your desk.

Here are a few pick-me-ups I use to keep awake during slow days in my home office. I believe they’ll also help you make it until quitting time. After all, your job does keep you in eye shadow and lip gloss.

Evian Mineral Water Spray – I keep a 1.7 ounce bottle of this trusty spray in my purse at all times. A quick spritz of this fine mist, not only wakes me up, it revitalizes my early morning make-up. I buy mine in a 3-pack at Sephora for $16.50.

Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller – I initially bought product for its claims to decongest puffiness and diminish dark circles under my eyes. Does it work? Hmmm… not really. Still, I love it! This serum applied with a rollerball pen is cooling and oh-so-refreshing. Caffeine is touted on the box as an ingredient. Maybe that’s why one swipe is as delightful and stimulating as a cup of afternoon java. You can find this at any drug or discount store, but I bought one at Walgreens for $12.99.

Stride Sugarfree Gum in Sweet Peppermint – WOW! What a blast of peppermint. The super strong taste of mint in this long-lasting gum is like a smack in the face. It’s totally worth the $1.20 I paid for it at Walgreens.

Well, those are my top three revivers. Anybody else?