Lifestyle

Could Your Makeup Technique be Aging You? Rediscover Youthful Radiance with These Five Tips

Side parts and skinny jeans have become unjustly labeled as indicators of age. But here’s the thing—I absolutely adore skinny jeans and will continue rocking a side part regardless of my age. The truth is, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with aging. Personally, as the years go by, I find myself appreciating life more and more!

While I firmly believe that mature skin is beautiful and age is just a number, there’s no reason to unintentionally add years to your appearance through makeup application techniques.

Applying makeup is a highly personal experience, and if you love the way you look after you’ve done your makeup, then by all means, keep doing what makes you feel fabulous. However, if you’re interested in achieving a more youthful and radiant look, I’ve got you covered with five invaluable tips to help you avoid unintentionally aging yourself through your makeup routine. Let’s dive in and discover how to enhance your natural beauty and embrace a youthful glow that defies expectations.

Five Tips To Add Vitality Back Into Your Makeup Routine | lookingjoligood.blog

Tip 1: Moisturize your skin and neck:

Indulging your skin with some extra care is a decision you’ll never regret. Yes, even if you have oily skin, moisturizing remains an essential step in your skincare routine! Think of moisturizers as your skin’s hydration boosters, focusing on replenishing the water content rather than the natural oils it produces. Surprisingly, even oily skin can become dehydrated if not properly moisturized. And let’s face it, dried-out oily skin only triggers your body to produce more oil, plunging you into a relentless cycle.

Imagine your skin tired, oily, dry, and cracked—without proper care, your foundation would accentuate those lines, leaving your face with an older appearance. That’s why it’s crucial to make cleansing, toning, and moisturizing your daily ritual. By giving your skin the tender loving care it deserves, you’ll not only restore its vitality but also radiate a youthful and refreshed glow. So, embrace the transformative power of a consistent skincare routine and unlock the secret to a vibrant complexion that defies time. Your skin will thank you!

One of my favorites has always been Cerave moisturizing cream $13 for 16 oz.

Another cult classic is the Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel  $27 for 4.2 oz.

Tip 2: Choose the correct color of blush:

Oh, how I adore blush! This enchanting makeup product possesses a certain magic—it effortlessly and swiftly breathes life and radiance into your face.

A touch of blush applied to the apples of your cheeks can work wonders, granting your face a lifted appearance. However, as with any magic, the wrong choice of color can turn blush from a blessing into a curse. It’s all about finding the perfect shade that complements your skin tone. For a youthful and luminous glow, consider opting for a soft peach or rosy hue. On the other hand, selecting a shade that’s too dark can leave your face looking lackluster and fatigued. Let’s ensure that the blush you choose remains a captivating part of your makeup routine, enhancing your natural beauty and unveiling a vibrant, rejuvenated you.

Two of my current favorite blushes are TARTE Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Blush $29 USD (available in 12 permanent shades and occasionally some temporary shades) and the ESSENCE Satin Touch Blush $3 USD (available in only 4 shades) One of my favorite blush brushes,The Wet N Wild blush brush, costs less than $2 USD and comes from the drug store.

Tip 3: Choose the correct eyeshadow finish:


The term “eyeshadow finish” refers to the texture and appearance of the shadow, playing a significant role in the overall effect it creates. There are five primary finishes to choose from: matte, satin, frost, shimmer, and glitter. The choice of eyeshadow finish can greatly influence various aspects of the shadow, including its ease of use, color payoff, pigmentation, and the final result it yields.

As we transition into our more mature years, our skin tends to react differently to different finishes. While in our teens and twenties, we can experiment with almost any makeup look, mature skin requires a more intentional approach when incorporating shimmers and glitters. However, this doesn’t mean we have to completely avoid them. Instead, we can strategically incorporate them in a way that enhances our features.

Personally, I have an undeniable fondness for all things glittery, sparkly, and shimmering. Anything that catches the light instantly grabs my attention. Nowadays, I utilize glitter, sparkles, and shimmer on the center of the lid and in the inner corner of the eye. To frame the eyes, I opt for matte shades as transitions and in the crease. By strategically placing shadows, we can divert attention from any sagging lids and create the illusion of a lifted appearance. So, let’s embrace the magic of different eyeshadow finishes, skillfully utilizing them to accentuate our unique beauty at every stage of life.

One of my favorite all matte palettes is the urban decay naked ultimate basics palette, unfortunately, as with all things I love it is no longer available… that’s ok because the Tarte Clay Play Face Shaping Palette will get the job done. Don’t want to spend $30-45 USD on an eyeshadow palette?  Try out the ELF Mad for Mattes Palette. It is only $10 and has 10 all matte shades.

e.l.f. Eyeshadow Palette -Mad for Matte lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Tip 4: Mastering the Art of Youthful Eyeliner: A Delicate Approach to Enhance Your Eyes

It’s no secret that applying eyeliner with a heavy hand can often result in an older appearance, regardless of your age. Take a moment to reminisce about your 15-year-old self—remember when trying to look more mature meant applying a thick line of black eyeliner around your entire eye? I can certainly relate!

To achieve a more youthful and refreshed look, it’s time to rethink our eyeliner techniques. Instead of lining the entire eye with a dark and heavy stroke, let’s opt for a subtler approach. Start your eyeliner in the middle of your upper eyelid, gradually thickening it as you extend it outward. This technique creates a soft and lifted effect, beautifully enhancing your eyes.

When it comes to lining the lower lash line, consider using eyeshadow instead of traditional eyeliner. The gentle touch of eyeshadow provides a softer appearance to your eye makeup. By using eyeshadow to line under the eye, you’ll still achieve the desired detail without adding weight to your eyes.

Now, let’s take a moment to compare two pictures side by side. Would you believe that in the first picture, I am approximately five years younger than in the second picture? The power of subtle eyeliner application truly speaks for itself, offering a more youthful and vibrant allure.

So, embrace this delicate approach to eyeliner and let your eyes radiate timeless beauty. With a few adjustments, you’ll unlock the secret to captivating eyes that defy age and exude youthful charm.

Tip 5: When choosing your lipstick shade, choose shades that are closest to the darkest part of your lips:

Embrace Youthful Lips: Finding the Perfect Nude Shade to Revitalize Your Look

As we age, it’s only natural for our lips to lose some of their fullness and pigmentation. While nude lip colors have gained immense popularity, it’s essential to be mindful of the shade you choose. While some nude shades can be stunning, opting for a hue that closely matches your skin tone can inadvertently cause your lips to blend into your complexion, resulting in a loss of your natural lip line.

To maintain a youthful appearance and bring a rejuvenating touch to your entire face, it’s crucial to select nude shades that are closer to the darkest part of your lips. By choosing these shades, you can preserve definition and prevent your lips from blending into the surrounding skin. This approach helps to retain a more vibrant and youthful look.

While nude lip colors can still be incredibly flattering, it’s all about finding the right balance between enhancing your natural lip color and selecting a shade that complements your skin tone. By doing so, you can effortlessly revitalize your look, adding a touch of allure and radiance to your overall appearance.

So, let’s embrace the power of a well-chosen nude shade and celebrate the beauty of our lips at every age. By selecting shades that enhance our features, we can embrace our unique individuality and showcase a youthful and vibrant glow that stands the test of time.

I recommend the Revlon Super Lustrous Lipsticks. With 3 different finishes and 87 shades to choose from (yes, that’s correct, 87 shades!😮), there’s definitely a perfect shade for you! You can read all about how much I love the Revlon Super Lustrous Lipsticks by clicking HERE.

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick | lookingjoligood.blog

There is nothing wrong with getting older, but there is no reason to make yourself look older than you are.   

Makeup application is a deeply personal journey, and if you’re content with the way you look after applying your makeup, by all means, continue doing what brings you joy and confidence. Your unique style and preferences deserve to shine.

However, if you’ve gained some valuable insights today and feel inspired to make a change, I would be thrilled to hear about your experience. Feel free to share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below. Your journey of self-expression and growth is a beautiful one, and I’m here to support and celebrate it with you.

If you decide to try out the tips shared, I’m eager to know your thoughts on the results. Every step we take toward refining our makeup techniques is an opportunity for discovery and self-expression. So, let’s embark on this transformative journey together and continue to explore the boundless possibilities of beauty. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and let me know how these tips have influenced your makeup routine. Your voice and feedback are invaluable!

If you like what you see here check me out on Instagram, @lookingjoligood. Generally, I mostly post pictures of food, plants, sunsets, and occasionally puppies, (what can I say, I love what I love!) There are also plenty of pictures of makeup and beauty products as well. 

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I would love for you to follow me on  Twitter,  Instagram, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.  I would also love to follow you on Instagram and Twitter as well, so let me know your user name in the comment section below!

*Some of the above links are affiliate links

Five Tips To Add Vitality Back Into Your Makeup Routine | lookingjoligood.blog
Lifestyle

Unlock Radiant Skin: The Power of Sunscreen, I wish I knew then what I know now!

When it comes to improving the look and health of your skin, there is one essential step that surpasses all others in importance. Are you ready to discover the key to unlocking radiant skin? It lies in the transformative power of wearing sunscreen every day.

Sunscreen is not just a seasonal necessity; it is the cornerstone of healthy skin all year round. By diligently applying sunscreen, you shield your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays, which can lead to premature aging, sunspots, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Start your skincare routine by thoroughly cleansing your skin, removing impurities and excess oil. Follow this with toning to balance your skin’s pH levels and prepare it for further treatment. Then, embrace the most crucial step: apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an appropriate SPF for your skin type.

Wearing sunscreen every day forms a protective barrier that defends your skin against UVA and UVB rays. It prevents sunburn, premature wrinkles, and age spots, ensuring your skin remains youthful, healthy, and radiant for years to come.

Consistency is paramount. Incorporate wearing sunscreen into your daily routine, rain or shine, and make it an indispensable part of your skincare ritual. Whether you’re heading outdoors or staying indoors, safeguarding your skin with sunscreen is a non-negotiable practice.

Remember, the sun’s rays can penetrate through clouds and windows, making sunscreen an essential defense mechanism. Choose a sunscreen that suits your preferences and skin type, whether it’s a lightweight lotion, a moisturizer with built-in SPF, or a mineral-based option.

Cerave SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion | lookingjoligood.blog
Cerave SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion | lookingjoligood.blog

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and while I am a little…a lot late to the game on that, I still want to emphasizing the significance of protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. As a passionate advocate, I strongly promote the daily application of sunscreen as a vital measure to safeguard our skin from the detrimental impact of the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Personally, I prioritize the use of sunscreen every single day and exercise extreme caution when spending extended periods in the sun. However, despite my best efforts, I unfortunately developed a patch of skin cancer on my arm. This experience has further strengthened my commitment to spreading awareness and encouraging others to take proactive steps in protecting their skin.

I am sharing some of my favorite sunscreens with you. Let me know which ones you’ve tried or if you have any favorites of your own!

Here are several of my favorite sunscreens:

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 and the Trader Joes Daily Facial Sunscreen SPF 40

Let me share with you a little secret that might already be on your radar. Recently, I found myself running low on my beloved Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40. In a quest to find an alternative, I stumbled upon the Trader Joes Daily Facial Sunscreen SPF 40, and what I discovered left me absolutely thrilled. These two sunscreens are practically identical!

Both products boast a luxuriously smooth texture, gliding effortlessly with a slick silicone feel. Moreover, their active ingredients are strikingly similar, ensuring superb protection for your skin. The best part? They both play well under makeup, leaving you with a flawless canvas to create your desired looks.

Now, let’s talk about the price. Brace yourself for this game-changing revelation! The Trader Joe’s Daily Facial sunscreen costs a mere $9, while its counterpart, the Supergoop Unseen sunscreen, commands a hefty $38 for the same size. It’s a no-brainer decision for me as to which one I’ll continue to purchase and rely on. 😎

Finding dupes for beloved products is an exhilarating experience. It not only saves you a considerable amount of money but also allows you to indulge in your favorite items without compromising on quality. I can’t help but revel in the joy of stumbling upon such a fantastic alternative.

So, if you’re a fan of the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen but want to explore a wallet-friendly option without sacrificing performance, give the trader joes Daily Facial Sunscreen a try. Trust me, it’s a discovery worth celebrating in your skincare journey! Cheers to finding incredible dupes that keep us feeling fabulous and savvy.

Cerave AM Daily Moisturizing Lotion with 30 spf

The Cerave AM Daily Moisturizing Lotion with 30 spf is my go to moisturizing SPF. It’s perfect on its own and works great under makeup. This lotion is fragrance free, has a light-weight, non-greasy texture that sinks in quickly. The real winning feature is that it does not break me out the way that most spf products do. This Facial AM Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 acts as a moisturizer and sunscreen in one. One pump is enough to cover my entire face, ears and a bit of my neck. Three ounces cost around $13.

Cerave has its own website where you can find more products by clicking HERE. You can purchase this moist Cerave SPF 30 Facial Moisturizing Lotion at Target by clicking HERE. You can also check out Cerave on Amazon by clicking HERE 

Coola Sport SPF 50 and Bioré UV Aqua Rich SPF 50.

Two other favorite sunscreens that I recommend are Coola Sport SPF 50 and Bioré UV Aqua Rich SPF 50. Both of these are 50 spf which is a higher spf than the 30 spf of the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizer. Neither of these broke out my skin, but neither performs as well underneath makeup as the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizer and the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen and The Trader Joe’s Daily Facial sunscreen.

Coola Sport SPF 50 | lookingjoligood.blog
Coola Sport SPF 50
Bioré UV Aqua Rich SPF 50 | lookingjoligood.blog
Bioré UV Aqua Rich SPF 50

By prioritizing the use of sunscreen, you are taking a proactive step towards preserving the health and beauty of your skin. Watch as your complexion becomes more even, youthful, and vibrant over time, thanks to the protective shield provided by sunscreen.

So, seize this opportunity to embrace the single most important thing you need to start doing right away: incorporate sunscreen into your daily skincare regimen. Let your commitment to sun protection be the driving force behind your skin’s ultimate transformation. Your journey to radiant skin starts now!

*Some of the above links are affiliate links.

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I would love for you to follow me on  Twitter,  Instagram, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.  I would also love to follow you on Instagram and Twitter as well, so let me know your user name in the comment section below!

Sunscreen Pinterest Pin | lookingjoligood
Lifestyle · Make up

National Lipstick Day July 29,2022

July 29th is National Lipstick Day in the United States! 💄

Revlon has been making their super lustrous lipstick for what seems like a million years. These classic lipsticks are sold in several different finishes such as matte and pearl, but the crème formula is my favorite. It has a comfortable feel that doesn’t dry out the lips as some lipstick formulas can. There’s no overpowering scent either. With 87 different shades to choose from (yes, that’s correct, 87 shades!), there’s definitely a perfect shade for you! Pictured below are five of my favorite revlon lipstick shades and finishes.

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick | lookingjoligood.blog
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick

In this picture I’m wearing one of my favorite lipsticks Revlon 764 On The Mauve crème finish.

Laura Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick | lookingjoligood.blog
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick shade 764 On The Mauve crème finish

Another of my favorite lipstick formulas is the Maybelline color for all sensational lipsticks. Both Maybelline and Revlon, as well as many other brands are on sale for 20% off Target today.

Maybelline Mauve | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
maybelline sensational lipsticks | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

While I love wearing lipstick, most days I leave the lipstick for special occasions, I can usually be found only wearing chapstick. I never leave home without a tube or two of chapstick in my pocket. While you’re at Target pick up a niveausa chapstick in the blue tube, it’s my favorite chapstick.

NYX is currently offering 20% off all lip products. Two of my favorite ones are the butter glosses in 15 Angel Food Cake and 36 Sorbet. Click HERE to take advantage of this 20% offer!


To celebrate National Lipstick Day Ulta Beauty has a buy one, get one 50% off of top brands such as TooFaced, Mac and Colourpop. Click HERE to take advantage of this week long sale.

Sephora doesn’t want to be left out they have 50% off select lip products for the lipstick holiday. They have brands like Armani, Yves Saint Laurent and lancomeofficial. I highly recommend the Yves Saint Laurent Slim Velvet Radical Matte Lipsticks

Yves Saint Laurent Slim Velvet Radical Matte Lipstick Boundless Maroon 315
Yves Saint Laurent Slim Velvet Radical Matte Lipstick Boundless Maroon 315

Before you head to bed after a long day of wearing lipstick, slather your lips in the cult favorite Laneige lip sleeping mask. You’ll wake up with lips that feel fully plumped and moisturized. There are four different types to choose from, but the original strawberry flavor in the pink tub is my favorite. Click HERE if you are interested in purchasing the Laneige lip sleeping mask.

What about you? What is your favorite type of lipstick? Do you love to wear different shades and finishes of lipstick or do you prefer to keep it simple and wear chapstick? Do you wear a lip mask while you sleep?

*Some of the above links are affiliate links

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Lifestyle

Rakuten…Literally Getting Paid to Shop Online!

https://www.rakuten.com/r/LAURAJ1824?eeid=28187
Getting Paid to Shop Online!

When you are shopping online, do you use Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates)? If you are not, you are missing out on free money and should sign up and start using Rakuten today!

It might seem hard to believe that giving away money for free is a real thing and not a scam. Getting paid cash back from Rakuten really is as simple as shopping online and getting paid!!

I realize that it sounds way too good to be true!  I had always been a bit skeptical, but it is really a legit thing.  I signed up on the recommendation of my sister, since then I have been paid more than $375 by Rakuten all while shopping for things I was already planning to buy.

I have earned $7 cash back today just from the online shopping I have done.  I received 4 checks last year, and one of those “Big Fat Checks” that Rakuten sent me was for $35.

It is literally getting paid to shop online for things that I am already buying.

It is so easy! You simply go to the Rakuten site, sign up with your name, email, and address, start shopping, and earning cash back! It is that simple

You can either search through their search bar for the site you want to go to, or add their cash back button to your web browser and have the cash back added automatically as you shop.

There are all kinds of sites that you can earn money from, TargetKohl’s SephoraUltaZappos, and Amazon just to name a few.

If you are interested in earning some money during your daily or holiday online shopping, take a look at Rakuten.

Here is a referral link that they gave me to share with you. I’d love for you to sign up using my referral link, because if you join and spend at least $40 on your usual online shopping we will both get a check for $40! What is better than free money?!

Click here to join Rakuten and start getting cash back as you shop online. https://www.rakuten.com/r/LAURAJ1824?eeid=28187

Happy earnings and happy shopping!

**This is NOT a sponsored post.  Rakuten has no idea that I am writing this.  I just love to share good deals with all of you!**

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I would love for you to follow me on TwitterInstagramPinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all four.

Lifestyle · Make up · Review

Olive and June Heel Balm, What Is This Sorcery?!

Now that the weather’s getting warmer where I live, and I have been wearing sandals more often, I’ve been more conscious of the condition of my feet, more specifically my heels.

I have had a lifelong obsession with smooth soft skin! I own more creams, lotions and oils than any one person could ever go through. It seems as if no amount of creams or lotions or pumice stones does the trick when it comes to my heels.

Olive and June Heel Balm | lookingjoligood.blog
Olive and June Heel Balm

Recently a friend told me about the Olive and June Heel Balm and swore that it is magical. I’ve been let down by so many “foot creams”, “heel hydration”, and “cracked heel repair” products. My hopes weren’t too high that Olive and June Heel Balm would be much different from everything else that I have tried. With her glowing magical recommendation, I figured why not give it a try.

I don’t know what the sorcery is that is in this product but it WORKED!!! (ingredients listed below) I can see why she called it magical. After only one week of consistent use I have noticed a significant difference in the condition of my heels.

Since I’m not going to share a picture of my feet on the internet (at least not for free 😉🤣), you’ll just have to take my word for it. I was shocked by how quickly my heels felt soft and smooth. Virtually no roughness left.

The Heel Balm comes in a twist up stick tube applicator. It’s a soft solid that quickly turns into an oil. If you don’t want to be sliding all around, or stain your sheets, you’ll definitely have to wear socks after applying. For an additional $6 USD, Olive and June even sells their own O&J Cozy Socks as part of their Slumber Party set. (available in s/m and m/l and pink or mint green)

Olive and June Slumber Party Set (photo credit to Olive and June website)

How to use: “Apply liberally to clean, dry feet. For maximum absorption, follow with cotton socks. For amazing results, use nightly.”

Here’s what Olive and June claims about the Heel Balm:

“Intensive Heel Balm formula hydrates dry, cracked skin. Sunflower and Meadowfoam moisturize and soothe. Convenient stick for super easy and totally mess-free application. Fragrance-free, Vegan, cruelty-free, and phthalate-free. Dermatologist tested”

https://oliveandjune.com/products/heel-balm

I paid $20 USD for a 50ml / 1.8 oz tube at Target. It is also available for the same price at Olive and June’s website. I like that it is fragrance-free, Vegan, cruelty-free, and phthalate-free. You can order your own from Target by clicking HERE. Or check it out on the Olive and June website by clicking HERE.

Ingredients: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Butter, Lauryl Laurate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Oryza Sativa (Rice Bran) Oil, Citrus Aurantis (Orange) Peel Wax, Papaver Somniferum Seed Oil, Limnanthes Alba, Tocopheryl Acetate.

What about you? Do your heels get dry and cracked this time of year? Have you tried out the Olive and June Heel Balm? What has your experience been? Did you love it? Hate it? What do you think about their claims about the Heel Balm? Have you notice anything different from what I found?

Have you tried any other Olive and June products? What products did you try? What results did you have? Let me know in the comment section below.

For more salon-perfect nail tips and tutorials check out Olive and June on instagram, @OLIVEANDJUNE  or head over to their website OLIVEANDJUNE.COM to see what other products you might be interested in.

*Some of the above links are affiliate links

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Enjoying what you are reading here? If so, visit my Instagram page @lookingjoligood. Generally, I post pictures of the things that are most important to me…food, plants and puppies. There are pictures of makeup and beauty products as well. Come follow Looking Joli Good on Twitter and Facebook as well.

Olive and June Heel Balm | lookingjoligood.blog
Lifestyle

Memorial Day 2022

Memorial Day is an American holiday on which those who died in active military service are remembered. It’s a day for honoring and mourning people who’ve died while fighting to keep us safe. It’s a time many visit friends and family who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. In 1966 the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day. It was traditionally observed on May 30 but is now officially observed on the last Monday in May.

Florida National Cemetery where my grandfather is buried

John McCrae wrote the poem In Flanders Fields in 1915 as a memorial to those who died in a World War I battle fought in a region of Belgium known as the Ypres Salient. McCrae himself treated many of the soldiers injured in that battle and was particularly moved by the death of a close friend, Alexis Helmer. This poem helped popularize the red poppy as a symbol of remembrance.

Memorial day | lookingjoligood.blog
Gone but not forgotten

In Flanders Fields

BY JOHN MCCRAE
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
    That mark our place; and in the sky
    The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
    Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
        In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
    The torch; be yours to hold it high.
    If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
        In Flanders fields.

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Stop by and visit my Instagram page @lookingjoligood. Generally, I post the things that are most important to me such as pictures of food, plants and puppies, but there are pictures of makeup and beauty products as well. I would love for you to follow me on  Twitter and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on both.  I would also love to follow you on Instagram and Twitter as well, so let me know your user name in the comment section below!

Memorial day | lookingjoligood.blog
My grandmother receiving the American flag at my grandfather’s funeral 2018
Lifestyle

Rakuten…Literally Getting Paid to Shop Online!

When you are shopping online, do you use Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates)? If you are not, you are missing out on free money and should sign up and start using Rakuten today!

It might seem hard to believe that giving away money for free is a real thing and not a scam. Getting paid cash back from Rakuten really is as simple as shopping online and getting paid!!

I realize that it sounds way too good to be true!  I had always been a bit skeptical, but it is really a legit thing.  I signed up on the recommendation of my sister, since then I have been paid more than $350 by Rakuten all while shopping for things I was already planning to buy.

I have earned $5 cash back today just from the online shopping I have done.  I received 4 checks last year, and one of those “Big Fat Checks” that Rakuten sent me was for $65.

It is literally getting paid to shop online for things that I am already buying.

It is so easy! You simply go to the Rakuten site, sign up with your name, email, and address, start shopping, and earning cash back! It is that simple

You can either search through their search bar for the site you want to go to, or add their cash back button to your web browser and have the cash back added automatically as you shop.

There are all kinds of sites that you can earn money from, TargetKohl’s SephoraUltaZappos, and Amazon just to name a few.

If you are interested in earning some money during your daily or holiday online shopping, take a look at Rakuten.

Here is a referral link that they gave me to share with you. I’d love for you to sign up using my referral link, because if you join and spend at least $30 on your usual online shopping we will both get a check for $30! What is better than free money?!

Click here to join Rakuten and start getting cash back as you shop online. https://www.rakuten.com/r/LAURAJ1824?eeid=28187

Happy earnings and happy shopping!

**This is NOT a sponsored post.  Rakuten has no idea that I am writing this.  I just love to share good deals with all of you!**

lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

I would love for you to follow me on TwitterInstagramPinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all four.

Lifestyle

One Year Later… Grief

To know Tessie was to love and be loved by Tessie.

Grief…

It is a thing we all have in common, but it looks and feels different to everyone.
It comes in its own time… at its own pace…different for everyone.

It’s dealt with in different ways by everyone. Some deal with it in healthy and healing ways, while others may choose ways that are hurtful, destructive, and wounding. Some might choose to bask in it, others try to ignore it and push it away.

It isn’t just death we have to grieve, it’s loss, it’s change, it’s things not going as planned, it’s life not being what was expected.

When grief hurts so much that you can’t breathe, you may wonder if you will survive. You wonder why it has to hurt so badly. 
But… you keep breathing, keep living, keep surviving,
one breath,
one hour,
one day at a time. 
Hours turn into days, turn into weeks turn into months, you keep breathing, living, surviving, eventually thriving.

Tears may come when you least expect them. Grief might grasp ahold of you and overwhelm you out of the blue. Just when you think it’s over you might find yourself overcome once again.  You might be laughing one second and crying in wracking heaves the next. You might find yourself avoiding certain places or spaces because the memories are too overwhelming.

I have learned that when the grief comes the best thing to do is to let yourself feel it. Don’t push it down or deny yourself the grief. Respect it. Let it overcome you, wash over you. Let yourself feel it fully without being wholly consumed by it. Hold on to it as long as necessary, let it go only when you are thoroughly ready.

I miss that sweet smile.

To know Tessie was to love and be loved by Tessie. She was pure love and sweetness. She was loyal, she was kind, she was sweet, good-natured, and (mostly) patient, except that is, when she wanted someone to play ball with her. Even in her final days when she was so weak, her eyes lit up whenever she saw a tennis ball. 

This sweet little dog brought so much happiness to my life.

Tessie was such a large part of my life. My best friend, my ever-present companion, and sidekick. She listened intently to everything I had to say. She was never more than a foot away from me. Despite not being human, I loved her as if she was my own child.

As the years went on and she aged, I did all I could to keep her healthy. Special medicine and diets to prevent her liver disease from progressing. When she went blind I gave her eye drops perfectly on schedule. When I noticed her limping from stiff legs, I rubbed her legs. When I noticed her weight loss, I gave her more treats and added special things to her food to encourage her to eat. When she started having accidents in the house, I made excuses and cleaned them up, not caring about the mess, just happy that she was still with me. As her body started to shut down I did everything I could think of to prolong her life.

As she got older and the end grew closer, I grieved. I grieved every time she had a bad health day. I grieved when she started having seizures at 11 years old. I grieved when she went blind at 13. I grieved the potential of her death for months, even years, before she passed.

I was told many times that when it came time to say goodbye she would let me know. My overwhelming anxiety of losing her wouldn’t listen, couldn’t listen. The grief that I feared so greatly was trying to fool me into thinking that I could ignore what was obvious. I tried to fool myself into reasoning that she still wanted to play ball and she was still eating treats, she was going to bounce back as she had done so many times. But, when the time came to say goodbye, and I was finally ready to listen, she let me know it was ok.

The Vet came to our house so we could be with her as she crossed the rainbow bridge. I held her in my arms as she took her last breath and a piece of me died along with her. Despite knowing that the day was approaching and it was the right decision, I wasn’t ready… I would never be ready. How do you prepare to say goodbye to your best friend?

Gone from my life, but forever in my heart.

In his book The Smell of Rain on Dust Martin Prechtel describes grief this way

Grief expressed out loud, whether in or out of character, unchoreographed and honest, for someone we have lost, or a country or home we have lost, is in itself the greatest praise we could ever give them. Grief is praise, because it is the natural way love honors what it misses.” 

Grief for someone that’s gone isn’t grief for the dead, it’s praise for the fact that they were alive, the fact they were loved. 

Saying goodbye to Tessie was a devastating transition in my life. Her absence created a huge shift in my daily life. There is an emptiness in my heart when I think about the loss of her.  A part of me was missing. One of my favorite things in life was gone. My heart was broken. I know I feel this way because of the fullness and joy that Tess added to my life.

The grief still gets me sometimes. It sneaks up on me when I least expect it. I still find myself crying at random times… I’m crying now as I write this.

It took me days to recover, weeks to stop crying, months to feel normal again. One year later…

Grief…

It is a thing we all have in common, but it looks and feels different to everyone.
It comes in its own time… at its own pace…different for everyone.

My best friend forever, my loyal companion. There will always be a Tessie-sized hole in my life. She will be loved forever and missed always.
Tessie Mae: April 30,2006-August 11, 2020 🐼❤️

My best friend, forever in my heart.
Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

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Lifestyle

The Crashing Ocean Waves of Grief

Find Your Strength | lookingjoligood.blog

One year ago, in the courtyard garden of the Spaulding Hospital Cambridge, I sat crying under this beautiful tree. One of my favorite people had just passed away. It’s hard to believe that an entire year has already gone by. 🌸

I miss her all the time! I think of her often. Whether it’s because I think of something funny she said or did, or because of something I wish I could text or tell her. She would have HATED social distancing and isolation! 🌸

ocean of grief | lookingjoligood.blog

Last night my Grandma passed away…😭 Due to her age and medical conditions, it wasn’t a surprise, but at the same time, I wasn’t expecting to lose her last night.🌸

She was a spunky lady. She always had an interesting story to tell, her nails perfectly done, and sunglasses on. 💅😎She was the epitome of the Shakespeare quote from Midsummer Night’s Dream “Though she be but little she is fierce” I’m going to miss her, but I know she’s so happy to be reunited in Heavenwith my Poppop and their dog Chase.🌸

Grief is a crazy thing, it’s like standing in the ocean being hit by waves. Sometimes the thought of the people I’ve lost makes me laugh and sometimes I cry.🌸

There’s no expiration date on grief. It could be twenty years later when you feel the wave crash against you as if it just happened yesterday. For now, I’ll take the waves one at a time…laughing and crying. 🌸

ocean of grief | lookingjoligood.blog

If you love someone, tell them. Don’t wait! You never know when you might not have another chance.🌸

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11🌸

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No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! Week 19 Body Fit By Amy 12 Minute Standing Abs with Dumbbell Workout

no gym no problem | lookingjoligood.blogI love working out in the privacy of my own home! I hope that these weekly workouts help encourage you along your healthier lifestyle journey!

“This 12-minute workout uses a dumbbell to do standing ab exercises, all while getting your heart rate up for bonus cardio. Tighten and tone your tummy with this no crunch, no plank workout. Great for those who have back pain or problems doing ab workouts on the mat. Options for all levels!”

Remember to keep proper form, warm up before, and stretch after you exercise! No excuses, just do it!

Are you enjoying these “No Gym? No Problem!” posts?  If so, you can check out the rest by clicking HERE!

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