Mandii's Muse

As a substitute teacher, I always go into a classroom and look at it as a learning experience for my future classroom. It never fails that in the younger grades I'll always get some tattlers. It's a fact of life. However, I was in a kindergarten classroom that still had some tattling, but the students could self monitor. How is this you ask? Insert "a bug and a wish!" Here's an example: Student A comes up to you and says: "Johnny took my pencil." Teacher says: "Use a bug and a wish." Student A goes over to Johnny and says "It bugs me when you take my pencil, I wish you would stop taking my pencil." Students self monitor, and the teacher doesn't have to stop and sort out the problem. Isn't this a great idea? This would also work for parents as well. It would definitely save you your sanity! I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. Can you see this working? Leave me a comment and let me know!

Let's face it, we live in a digital world. We are connected to our smart phones, tablets, and laptops. I'll admit, I Google almost everything. Here are a few of my favorite "apps" that I can't live without. Facebook: Is there a person that isn't on Facebook? It is such a good way for people to stay connected. Everything is on Facebook. I mean marriages aren't official until it's on there right?  ;) Twitter: Is it bad that I check Twitter first thing in the morning? It is my source of celebrity gossip, sports news, and music events. I love that you can tweet someone and there is just that off shoot chance they will see it and tweet you back. Luckily, I've had quite a few big names tweet me back...and yes, it perks up my day. Groupon: I'll admit, I was skeptical the first time I heard of Groupon. After reading some reviews and talking with family members who have used it, I love it. I was able to book a 60 minute facial for $12. That...

  If you've been reading my blog or my twitter for any length of time, you know I love a good lip product. It's my drug of choice. I received a sample of the Mirenesse Glossy Kiss lipstick in the shade Flirty Kiss, in my April Birchbox. I am loving this lipstick! First, the color is stunning. It is a beautiful red. To me, this lasted a good 3 1/2-4  hours and left a nice stain behind. You can also use this as a cheek stain! It comes in pencil form, and is just the perfect lipstick for Spring and Summer. The application went on smooth, and a little bit goes a LONG way! Would I ever spend $26.55 on this lipstick? No. I just can't justify spending that much on a lipstick, especially when they are so "dupe-able." Now, I could see myself getting this with my Birchbox points... Bottom line: It's a great color and formula, but definitely too expensive for me to buy without the help of my Birchbox points. I'd love to hear from you! Would you spend the mo...

I'm linking up with Lauren again! Here is what I'm loving this week!     1. It's a definite sign of Spring when tulips bloom. I love these yellow ones! 2. My dog Sunshine in her element. She loves to roll in the grass. Silly girl! 3. I am really loving this lipstick I got in my April Birchbox. There is a review coming shortly! 4. I'm busy working on a new series for you all! This picture is only a teaser!! Series coming the first Saturday in May!   5. I got some AMAZING news concerning Duke Basketball the other day! I pretty much had a major freak out when I found out! Details coming soon!   How's your week been? Anything exciting? Please leave me a comment and let me know! 

Today, I feel like sharing the love. It was way back in freshman/sophomore year in college that I discovered the YouTube beauty community. I have learned so much by watching videos on reviews, tutorials, and reading the accompanying blogs to some gurus. If they only knew how much money I've spent based on their product reviews!! I could rave and rave about how much I love about these ladies, but instead I'll keep it short and sweet! I hope you learn something from them like I did! Emilynoel83:  What do I say about Emily? Her reviews are so detailed and she's not afraid to tell you when she doesn't like a product. She comes up with unique tutorials, and has just as much fun working with drugstore products as she does high end. You should check out her video of when she met Mally Roncal. I was bawling! LaFemme5278: If you are looking for great nail polish swatches, Lindsay is your girl! She also has some great tutorials on simple neutral eye looks. She also does m...

I give you two words. Nutella and Toffee. Holy smokes! I saw this recipe in Taste of Home magazine. We had all of the ingredients, so why not? These were good!! I think these would be even better fresh out of the oven. If you want to try these keep on reading! 1 tube crescent roll dough 1/2 cup Nutella 1/3 cup chocolate covered English toffee bits Confectioners Sugar Unroll crescent roll dough and separate into triangles. Spread each with 1 tablespoon Nutella. Sprinkle with toffee bits. Roll up from the wide end and place point side down. Place them 2 inches apart of a cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 11-13 minutes. Let cool and sprinkle with confectioners sugar. If you make these, please leave me a comment and let me know what you think of them!

I recently got this full size sample in my April Birchbox. I am really liking it! I'm at that age, where I am starting to see some wrinkles (yay..not!).  Birchbox read my mind, and sent me this sample in my box. On to the review! From Simple: "Revitalizing Eye Roll-on a perfect blend of cucumber extract and vitamin goodness helps reduce puffiness and wake up tired eyes. Perfect especially for sensitive eyes."  I love how this feels on my eyes! It has a cooling effect, and is not too heavy. I can put it on, and it soaks in to my under eye area. It dries quickly and I can put makeup on very quickly afterwards. It has just the slightest scent, barely even noticeable. There is no burning sensation when applied to my eyes.  You can get this at Wal-Mart for around $9.97. If you are looking to get into eye roll ons, I would give this one a try! Questions, Comments? Let me know!!   Can you see my reflection?

Does getting two shirts at Wal-Mart count as a haul? These were too cute to pass up so I didn't!    :) The neon pink striped shirt is No Boundaries. I love walking through the store and seeing all of the neon colors, so I just had to have this shirt! I got a size larger, and it worked out perfectly. I can see this shirt being paired with a nude lip and some simple jewelry. Best part? It was $4.98! I may just have to check out some other options. Stop by the shirt department next time you're in the store! The sports nerd in me just HAD to get this shirt. ESPN. My TV is set to this channel 85% of the time. I love how it looks "worn" and distressed if you will. The tag says ESPN, but I found it in the men's graphic t-shirt department. Can you see this shirt with some cute red shorts? I can! Pair this shirt with a red lip, and you got yourself a cute outfit! If you wanted to make it extra girly, you could tie up the sleeves with some red ribbon. Tell me you woul...

Barry Manilow, not typically a concert I would attend, but the man is a legend, and tickets were cheap. Not to mention, he sings a song named "Mandy." (Even tho there is a spelling difference it still counts!) I went to the concert Friday night. I'm not a professional concert reviewer so here is my general review! *Note, I did not take my camera to the concert because of the heightened security measures.* When you get glow sticks at the beginning of a concert, you know you're in for a good time! Barry Manilow put on a great show. It was a time travel through his first album all the way up to the classics you know best: "Copacabana", "I Write the Songs", and "Mandy." The feel of this show was a Broadway stage production.  He sounds great. One thing to mention, he is a really, really great piano player. He had a band, and two backup singers. He had 3 suit coat changes. He spoke of his philanthropic foundation where he asks his "Fanil...

I'm linking up with Lauren again! (She just rebranded, make sure you check her out!) Here are 5 things I'm loving this week! 1. I bought the cutest strapless jumpsuit! (shame on me for not switching the landscape of the photo!) 2. I love this movie. Such a great message. Sherwood Baptist also created Fireproof! 3. I'm going to see Barry Manilow in concert tonight! Look for that review tomorrow! 4. I've been really skipping on using my baking soda and peroxide. I need to get back into that routine. Want to see why and how I use them? Check this post ! 5. I ordered a James Neal jersey! He is one of my favorite players on the Penguins. Stupid me, had a chance to meet him and get a picture taken with him at a gala I went to, but I was too shy. (We'll save that story for a rainy day!) What about you? How's your week been? Leave me a comment and tell me!

 When I'm having a good hair day, I feel like a million bucks. I think there are some tools every woman should have in their hair arsenal. 1. Headband: Whether you are in the growing out bangs stage of your hair, or just want a cute accessory, a headband is the way to go. You can wear your hair down with it in, OR you can pull your hair in a ponytail and spice it up with a little volume at the crown and a stylish headband. (Mine is from Strawberry's) 2. Spin Pins: I first heard about these on YouTube. I went out and bought a set, tried them and fell in love. These hold my layered, fine hair into a cute bun that feels secure and I don't need any bobby pins. I actually bought a second set and will put some gel in my hair, divide it in 4 sections and twist my hair using one spin pin and leave it in for 4-6 hours and when I leave it down, I have beautiful wavy hair! (You can get these at Wal-Mart. They are by Goody.) 3. Hair Ties: This is self explanatory, but a hair ti...

My April Birchbox came! It is always like Christmas when I receive my boxes. Who knew a bright pink box could make your day brighter? For April, they collaborated with Women's Health magazine. Here's what I got this month! My thoughts are after the asterisk (*). Joie| folle de joie eau de parfum- This has notes of mandarin, rose, and sandalwood. *I think I like this, it is not too floral. It would not be over powering to wear for daytime but could easily be worn in the evening.*   LAFACE Laboratories| PUR Purifying Facial Wash- I hear this is good for acne prone skin. It is a toner and cleanser in one. *I am interested to try this. I am interested to see how well this lathers and how it cleanses my face.* Mirenesse| Glossy Kiss Lipstick - This was launched exclusively for Birchbox! *You know I love a good lip color! This looks like it will definitely go on smoothly, and the color is perfect for summer! Pair this lip color with a neutral eye, and you got yourself a cl...

Yesterday, a sad and tragic event occurred in Boston. It's hard to imagine what the people there are thinking and feeling at this time. I was still a youngster (7th grade) when September 11 happened, and I remember coming home from school being scared. As a teacher I've been through fire drills, tornado drills, and safety drills for intruders. I know that these drills scare some of the younger kids, and maybe some older ones too. I'll admit, my heart beats a little faster during these drills as well. Some kiddos might be scared after seeing or hearing about the events of yesterday on TV. There's no doubt that teachers are reassuring their students today. * I AM NO EXPERT IN CHILD PSYCHOLOGY , BUT AS A TEACHER HERE ARE SOME THINGS I WOULD SAY TO MY STUDENTS* 1. Tell them that the right people like policemen and government officials are doing their best to keep everyone safe. 2. Reassure them that they are safe. 3. Remind them that if they overhear anything su...

U.S. Readers! Today is April 15th...Tax Day. Make sure you get them in by 11:59 tonight! And now to your regularly scheduled blog post for today... The TV that's so bad it's good! Ok, let us be real for a minute. I have been following these "housewives" for all 8 seasons. Do I act that way? No! Do I want to act that way? HECK NO!! Do I enjoy it? YES! Why does television shows like this suck you in? Let's face it, these women would not be hanging out with one another if it wasn't for this show. The trips, I'm sure are paid for by Bravo. I'm sure that 90% of them are living way out of their means. Let's not forget that most, if not all have had some sort of "work" done. And yet, I still enjoy it... If you watch the show I'm sure you know the ladies, Vicki, Tamra, Gretchen, Heather, and Alexis. Each week is a new adventure. Keeping up with who is fighting with who, is a challenge. I guess since I am stating all of the bad things ...

Let me let you in on a little secret about me. If my hair isn't done, I feel worthless. I could have Mally Roncal do my makeup and if my hair wasn't done, I wouldn't feel beautiful. Does anyone else feel that way? Please comment me and let me know I'm not the only one! So being that my hair is probably the longest it has ever been, (loving it) I have been able to use different styling tools on it. Here are a few of my favorites! Styling Wands:  L-R Remington T Studio and Conair Infiniti Helen of Troy 3/4" and 1 and 1/2" Conair Infiniti You Curl: This iron will give you the Taylor Swift curls if you take small sections. This starts at 1" and ends at a 1/2". I like to use this on days I will be traveling or doing a lot of running around because the curls hold so well!  Remington T-Studio Pearl: This style tapers from a 1 1/2" down to a 1" curl. I like this best for creating curls on the bottom and a flatter top section. C...

Linking up with Lauren again! Here are 5 wonderful things that happened this week!   1. I got to see a real eagle in person. It was absolutely amazing! I am going to keep checking back to see if I can get a picture with my camera. It reminds me of the Bible verse: "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."  (Isaiah 40:31)   2. I have been loving these Sunkist oranges, and Babybel White Cheddar cheese rounds. It's a good healthy lunch or snack!   3. I got some new dry shampoo and mascara to try. I'm excited to try these, and I'll be sure to give a review of both!   4. It hit 77 degrees here in PA this week. However, it is supposed to get in the 50's and rain this weekend. :(   5. My favorite show Farm Kings premiers this week! They are from around my area, and it shows them working on their family farm. *Tip, you mi...

Sometimes I think of blogs like Flat Stanley. Do you remember Flat Stanley? He'd start off in one location, and travel around the world with the help of his human counterparts. Blog readers can be from anywhere, which leads me to this post!  I noticed that a lot of my audience is of the International variety. I think that is so cool! I'd love to hear more about your country and the culture. If I ever get rich, I'd love to travel internationally. I've only been to Toronto, and that was years ago...before you needed a passport! Here's what I want from you international readers! Leave me a comment, and tell me something unique about your country or city where you live. It could be a food you eat, a holiday custom, or a sport you watch that we don't have in the United States.  I'm an information sponge, I can't wait to hear about your countries! I think all of my U.S. readers will be excited to learn about your country as well! U.S. Readers, you'll...

Even though I don't have a full time teaching job, I substitute. As a sub you always need to be prepared for any grade. I don't carry a purse when I sub, so I need to have some essentials with me. Here's what is in my bag! Umbrella Whistle Notebook and Pen Paperclips, and more pens A movie Calendar Certificates, important papers from schools (pink folder) A protein bar Hairspray *In the zippered pouch I have gum, lipstick, bobby pins, a hair tie, and a foldable brush.* I will just transfer my wallet and keys to that bag and add whatever items I think I will need for that particular day. I'll carry my lunch and I'm set for the day! Do you carry a bag to work? What's in it? Leave me a comment and let me know!

The Louisville Cardinals are the National Champions of the college basketball world! Rick Pitino is now a National Championship winning coach with 2 different schools. (Louisville, and Kentucky) Kevin Ware watched his team win a championship, for him. It was a pretty good game. (However, I will say that I was not following it as closely because I had no invested interest in either team.) I will say this, way back in March I picked Louisville as the National Champion, so that is saying something! How does your bracket look? Did you have Louisville winning it all? I guess now we have to wait until October for the season to start up again. I'm going to miss it while it is gone.

From 68 down to 2. Tonight is the big one. The National Championship game. Louisville vs. Michigan. Did you have than on your bracket? I certainly didn't have Michigan. But that is the beauty of March. It should be a great game. Rick Pitino and John Belein are both well known, and well respected coaches. Michigan is 1 win away from a National Championship, the first time in 20 years. Louisville has the momentum from Kevin Ware's injury. Did I mention he's from Atlanta? (Right where the Championship game is being played) The game could go either way. It will definitely be an interesting game with player matchups and the different offenses and defenses each coach plays. Belein's 1-3-1 defense and Pitino's press will make for some good basketball. Some names to watch: Michigan- Trey Burke, Tim Hardaway Jr, Mitch McGary Louisville- Peyton Siva, Luke Hancock, and even though he isn't playing; Kevin Ware So, who are you going to choose? Can a Cardinal beat...

Today I am going to challenge you to do a random act of kindness. It could be sending a card to a friend who is sick, buying someone's coffee, cooking a meal and delivering it to someone in need. Any small thing you can do to brighten someone's day. Let's be a rainbow in someone else's day today. Leave me a comment and let me know what you did to brighten the day of someone!

I'm linking up with Lauren again! She's the genius behind From My Grey Desk Blog . I have a few good things for you this week, so let's get on with it! 1. Duke lost to Louisville, so the seniors are done playing, but I will always have my picture (s) with Mason Plumlee. He's kind of a big deal in my book. 2. Lent is over so I indulged myself and had a piece of this Better Than Sex Cake. You know what's it's called! ;) 3. I have been loving Bon Jovi's new CD called What About Now. Top 3 favorites so far: Because We Can, Amen, and The Fighter. 4. I have been using this MAKE eyeshadow in Burnt Umber a lot recently. I can use it to define my crease or line my lower lash line. 5. My favorite ice cream stand is opening for the season. Honestly, the best ice cream I've ever tasted.

Do you have baking soda and peroxide in your house? Do you normally use them in baking and first aid? I'm going to let you in on some beauty secrets that are inexpensive and effective. I think if you try these, you will find that they not only help you, but you will be surprised at how much money you save! My first beauty tip is to use baking soda as a gentle exfoliator. I use baking soda on my face every other day. I mix a teaspoon in with my regular facewash, make a little paste with water, and scrub my face. I exfoliate for 2 minutes and rinse well. *I suggest using a toner afterwards because there might be some residue left from the baking soda.* You will be amazed at how soft your face feels! By using the baking soda regularly, it regulates the pH balance of your skin. My next beauty tip is to whiten your teeth with peroxide! After you are done brushing your teeth, swish some peroxide in your mouth. Keep it in there for 5 minutes or so, and then spit it out. The ...

Thumbs up for my camera reflection! ;) Even though I am a huge Bon Jovi fan, I haven't loved every album they have came out with. Have  I loved certain songs on each album, yes. I definitely have my favorite CDs of their's, but I think everyone has that with their favorite band. I got the new CD What About Now for Easter. I have been listening to it non stop. For this review, I will go song by song, and give my final thoughts on the album as a whole at the end. So, let's get on with it! 1. Because We Can -This song gets you moving! Take action for the things you believe in. Do it, because you can. 2. I'm With You- This song has a great guitar riff that Richie plays. For some reason, it reminds me of a song that The Beatles would play with the harmonies between Jon and Richie. 3. What About Now- The title song of the new CD. Driving beat. 4. Pictures of You- Remembering a long lost love. Wanting them to be yours. 5. Amen -This is definitely one of my ...

Have you tried this cake? If you haven't, and love chocolate, caramel, and Heath crunch this cake is for you! I'd given up sweets for Lent, so I knew that when I was allowed to have sweets, I wanted chocolate. This cake is better as it sets, so I recommend making this a day in advance. Let's get on with the recipe! Better Than sex , You Know What Cake: 1 box Devils Food cake mix 1 jar Mrs. Richardson's Caramel sauce 1 can sweet and condensed milk 1 tub Cool Whip Heath Crunch Cook cake according to package directions. Cool. Poke holes in the cake with the handle of a wooden spoon. Pour the can of sweetened condensed milk over the cake. Repeat with the caramel sauce. Put the Cool Whip on top and place the Heath crunch on top. Enjoy! Isn't this the easiest cake to make? This cake needs to remain refridgerated. This is a very rich cake, but oh so delicious! As always, if you make this I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a comment and tell me what you t...

Even though I'm 25, I still get a few small gifts for Easter from my parents, and aunt and uncle. Does that make me spoiled? Probably, but it is the benefit of being the only child and only niece! Here's what I got and my first impressions of them! Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Rendezvous Bon Jovi What About Now CD Snowbunnies in Bunny Prayers You know I love the Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stains! This is my 6th one and I love them all. I definitely like the texture of these better than the Tarte ones. I think I may do a comparison post on the two. Let me know if you'd like to see that. Bon Jovi What About Now CD. If you're reading this right now, I am probably listening to this CD. I know a few of the songs from the concert I went to, and liked those. I am going to do a full review of this CD, so be on the lookout for that in the next day or so! Snowbunnies in Bunny Prayers. Isn't she cute? I collect Snowbabies and Snowbunnies, and it...