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  • Primally Pure Review – what I love & what’s just okay

    Primally Pure Review – what I love & what’s just okay

    Use promo code TERILYN10 to save 10% on Primally Pure orders.

    I’m a skincare junkie and am always on the hunt for the best skincare that’s also safe. While my skincare routine consists primarily of Oliveda right now, I have used Primally Pure products off and on for almost a decade and have tried almost every product they have.

    This brand is one of my top recommended clean skincare brands, and it’s excellent if your skin is easily irritated or overwhelmed. I see Primally Pure as more about nourishment and calming the skin than correcting deeper wrinkles or fine lines. It’s great for supporting the skin barrier, especially during dry seasons, but I don’t rely on it alone for anti-aging results. I find Primally Pure best for sensitive skin, barrier support, and minimalist routines.

    So today, I’m sharing every product I’ve tried and my honest thoughts. Let’s go!

    Primally Pure Review (what I love & what I don’t)

    My top 3 products are the deodorant, sunscreen and baby balm so we’ll start with those. I’ve listed everything as yes, no, or maybe, depending on what I would focus on getting if I were you.

    Primally Pure Deodorant – MAYBE

    I love Primally Pure’s deodorant (so much so that I have a separate review on it linked here). I’m a big proponent of safe deodorant i.e. no aluminum, clean ingredients, etc. Primally Pure’s Deo works and smells really good, which is saying something, since I hate anything scented. It’s not an anti-perspirant, so I do still sweat when I use this, but I don’t smell.

    One note: many women have to switch natural deodorant brands every 9-12 months because our body chemistry changes, and some deodorants will stop working. I rotate among Primally Pure Deodorant, Agent Nateur Deodorant, and Necesairre Deodorant Gel.

    Primally Pure Suncream SPF – YES

    The Suncream SPF 30 Lotion has become my go-to sunscreen. I’ve been using it nonstop since it arrived. It’s a mineral-based formula made with non-nano zinc oxide, and the ingredient list reads more like skincare than sunscreen: grass-fed tallow, mango butter, jojoba oil, and other nourishing essentials that actually support your skin barrier. The texture is rich but sinks in quickly, with no white cast and zero greasy residue. It leaves my skin feeling moisturized and protected, not sticky or heavy.

    I keep a tube in my pool bag at all times because it checks every box: it’s safe for the kiddos, gentle on sensitive skin, and doesn’t dry us out after a long day in the sun. It blends in easily without frantic rubbing or awkward streaks, and I feel good using it daily, knowing the ingredients are as clean and effective as they come (which is why it made my list of the best clean skincare brands). If you’ve been looking for a truly non-toxic SPF that feels like a treat to wear, this is it.

    I share the rest of my favorite non-toxic sunscreens in this post here.

    Primally Pure Sun Lip Balm SPF – MAYBE

    The Sun Lip Balm SPF 15 is a standout in clean beauty circles, and the best I’ve tried. It combines non-nano zinc oxide with nourishing ingredients like grass-fed tallow, mango butter, and beeswax. Just nine ingredients total, all nature-based. It moisturizes, protects, and soothes, without leaving a white cast. It’s gentle enough for daily wear, travel-friendly, and wallet-friendly (around $14).

    Primally Pure Baby Balm – YES

    The Primally Pure Baby Balm is the ONLY thing that works on my boys’ eczema-prone skin, and it’s gentle enough that I used it on Charles the day we brought him home. It’s also great to keep on hand for things like cracked nipples, stretch marks, etc. It’s made with lots of soothing herbs and healthy fats, and is a much better option than Aquaphore since Primally Pure is non-toxic.

    Primally Pure Body Butter – MAYBE

    I LOVE the Primally Pure Body Butter. In fact, it’s one of the only body butters I use when Thomas has really dry skin. It’s super thick and hydrating, and it’s smooth to apply (which is nice compared to some grainier ones I’ve tried). The larger 4 oz size lasts a few months for me, and I use a quarter-size amount every time (I use it at night since it’s a little greasy). You can buy it in a set of three to try all the scents, which is what I recommend. They’re all amazing, but my favorite is the lavender and eucalyptus.

    Read more about how to use body butter in this post.

    Primally Pure Plumping Mist – YES

    Next, the Primally Pure Plumping Mist. I have incredibly dry skin. And this mist is one of my favorite mid-day hacks for hydration (I also like the face mist from Dime Beauty)! I find that most of the face mists I’ve used make me feel drier than before once the mist dries, but not this one. My skin feels rehydrated immediately after I use this and for the rest of the day. The smell is amazing too. I keep this on my office desk for a mid-day spritz! It contains aloe vera, peppermint, glycerin, rose, and witch hazel.

    You can use the Plumping Mist to set your makeup or after your cleansing step in your skincare routine, but I prefer it throughout the day since I already have a favorite toner for post-cleansing.

    Primally Pure Fancy Face Serum – NO

    The Fancy Face Serum is a newer product from Primally Pure. It’s great for all skin types and effective at diminishing fine lines, scarring, age spots, discolorations and more. It comes in two versions; one is not made for pregnancy, but they have a specific version of this Fancy Face Serum that was specifically formulated for pregnancy and breastfeeding that is made without neem oil, thyme essential oil, cypress essential oil, and carrot seed essential oil.

    Honestly, I think there are others that give better results, so I’d also check out the True Botanicals Pure Radiance Oil. Here’s my full True Botanicals Review.

    Primally Pure Dry Shampoo – MAYBE

    Primally Pure’s dry shampoo is SUPER popular for good reason. They have two versions: one for light locks and one for dark hair (I know brunette girls love to hear that!). This dry shampoo uses kaolin clay and organic arrowroot powder to absorb moisture while adding texture and volume, and it also contains organic essential oils of grapefruit (which has natural cleansing properties), lavender (soothes your scalp) and peppermint (stimulates hair growth).

    Unlike most dry shampoos you’ve probably used, you do not spray this into your hair, but rather shake it into your scalp, sort of like baby powder. Use a few shakes on your roots, and then blend it in with your fingertips. If you use it before bedtime rather than right before you’re going out, you’ll have even better absorption. This product CAN make a little bit of a mess, so use it before you get dressed for the day!

    From non-toxic to budget-friendly I’ve tried so many dry shampoos to find the best ones which you can read about in this post!

    Primally Pure Review – Body Oil – MAYBE

    I’ll be frank, I’m not a body oil person, so I’m not a good judge. BUT, if you like a long bath or massage, I’ve heard great things about the Primally Pure Body Oil. It makes a great gift because it’s so luxurious, has a pleasant smell, and hydrates your skin. The body oil contains a blend of aromatic, nourishing, and essential oils, so it leaves your skin super smooth and soft. However, it’s pretty thick and a bit greasy. I would say that this falls into the “just okay” category.

    Primally Pure Clarifying Serum – MAYBE

    This clarifying serum is my former content manager’s favorite product from Primally Pure. She struggles with combination and breakout-prone skin, and had never used a facial oil before this (the serum is in oil form). We’re all taught oil = acne, which isn’t necessarily the truth, and once she tried it, she was shocked by how well her skin responded. I don’t have acne-prone skin, so I haven’t tested it, but my she swears by it.

    The clarifying serum contains green tea with EGCG, marula oil and prickly pear seed oil are rich in vitamins C, E and K to treat active breakouts, acne scarring and sun damage. You don’t feel greasy after using it, but your skin does glow.

    I’ve found that the best way to apply facial oil to my skin is to add it to my night cream and blend the two, or to apply a dropper of oil to the back of my hands and then use the back of my hands to apply the oil to my face. This helps prevent the oil from absorbing right into my palms, PLUS the back of your hands will appreciate the hydration.

    Primally Pure Lip Balm – MAYBE

    The Primally Pure lip balm is great, but I typically want more in a lip balm (color, hydration, etc), however, my husband LOVES it. They use ingredients like tallow from grass-fed cows, coconut oil and organic cocoa butter. This combination helps hydrate and heal chapped lips. Since each lip balm is only $4, I’d make sure to add something else to your order so that you don’t spend more money on shipping than the gloss actually costs. That, or buy the set and get all 5 scents!

    Primally Pure Gua Sha – MAYBE

    If you’ve never used a Gua Sha or facial jade roller, you are missing out. Gua Sha is an ancient healing technique from TCM (traditional Chinese medicine). Using the Gua Sha stone, you lightly pull and lift your skin in massage motions to help promote lymphatic drainage and relieve muscle tension. I wish I was better about using my Gua Sha, since I know it requires time and practice to really appreciate the results. Even with just one use, though, you’ll notice de-puffing and the softening of fine lines and wrinkles.

    The Primally Pure jade roller also helps depuff your skin, but it requires less technique. I keep mine in my car and roll it on my tired face on the way to pilates or early morning appointments! Either would make a great gift for moms paired with one of their serums and a cozy robe. If you need a bathrobe recommendation, try the Cozy Robe from LAKE Pajamas.

    I shared the rest of my favorite at-home skincare tools in this post.

    Primally Pure Dry Brush – MAYBE

    I’m adding the Primally Pure Dry Brush to this list since it’s SUPER popular, but I have to admit that I’m not consistent about using mine!

    To use the Body Dry Brush, you’ll want to start at your feet and brush upwards in short, gentle strokes. Brush counterclockwise over your belly to help improve digestion, and then brush from your hands to your heart. You’ll always brush towards your heart. To finish, you’ll brush DOWN towards your armpits to flush out the toxins and promote lymphatic drainage.

    For the Facial Dry Brush, you’ll start at your neck, brushing in downward strokes to promote lymphatic drainage. Then, work all over your face, moving from the center of your face towards your hairline. The goal is NOT to scrub your skin, but get your blood and lymphatic fluid moving.

    You can order the brushes in a set, and it would be a great gift for a beauty or wellness guru!

    Primally Pure Room Spray – YES

    Room sprays are not something I ever thought I’d have feelings about. And then I tried the Primally Pure Room Spray, and now I use it all the time, especially before bed. What I love most is that it’s made with pure essential oils, so I’m not pumping synthetic fragrance into the air around my kids, which I appreciate.

    It smells clean and fresh without being overwhelming, and it actually lingers. I highly recommend it if you want a home that smells nice and are careful about what’s in the air.

    Who owns Primally Pure?

    Primally Pure was founded by Bethany McDaniel, who grew up in a family who started a beyond organic livestock farm in Southern California called Primal Pastures. Through that family business, she learned how amazing eating real food was for her health, and that inspired her to look into starting a beauty and skincare brand that focused on the same thing: real, whole ingredients.

    Their motto is “fewer is better”, meaning the fewer ingredients in a product, the better it is. All of their products are made with real ingredients that come directly from nature. And the most impressive part is that the products deliver legit results. I also love that they source many of their ingredients from family-owned farms.

    Primally Pure Customer Service

    I love Primally Pure’s team. They’re friendly, prompt, and helpful. They do a great job of making their customers and audience feel like family, even though the company is growing. I’ve always had great experiences with their customer service.

    Primally Pure Shipping

    You can get free shipping on every Primally Pure order over $75, which is what I always do. I wait until I need to replace 2-3 products, and order them at once to get free shipping. Since Primally Pure products are not cheap, getting to $75 isn’t too difficult.

    They have a great return policy too. They’ll process returns or exchanges within 60 days of your purchase for any reason, so you have plenty of time to try products out. If you have any issues, they’re happy to help make it right. Orders processed after 60 days, will be given store credit.

    You can use this form for any returns or exchange requests.

    Is Primally Pure Worth It?

    100% yes. I LOVE my Primally Pure products. While they don’t deliver the same results as some other clean beauty products I use, they are some of the BEST products I’ve tried when my skin is super dry and irritated and nothing soothes it. They are also pregnancy and nursing-safe, so if that is a concern, this is a GREAT brand.

    Primally Pure products are “cleaner” than Beautycounter and Oliveda, but I don’t feel like they are quite as effective as anti-aging. But if SUPER clean, natural products are the most important thing for you or you struggle to get dryness or oiliness under control, this brand is definitely worth trying.

    Use promo code TERILYN10 to save 10% on Primally Pure orders.

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    The post Primally Pure Review – what I love & what’s just okay appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

  • Chaitra Navratri 2026

    Chaitra Navratri 2026

    Wishing all the Hindus a very happy Navaratri.

  • Easy Flank Steak Fajitas (Weeknight-Friendly)

    Easy Flank Steak Fajitas (Weeknight-Friendly)

    These Easy Flank Steak Fajitas are the dinner you make when flank steak is a good price at the store, or when you want a lean, easy steak recipe that doesn’t require much planning.

    Flank steak is one of the leanest cuts of red meat and cooks quickly over high heat, which makes it perfect for fajitas. Combined with sautéed peppers and onions and wrapped in warm tortillas, this is a simple, satisfying meal that feels satisfying without being heavy. I make it at least every other week!

    Instead of a traditional marinade, this recipe uses a reverse marinade, which is faster and less likely to burn. The flank steak is seasoned, seared, and then rested in a lime-garlic mixture to soak up all flavors and keep the lime juice bright (not burned). The fact that it’s faster is a huge win for weeknight dinners.

    Tip: If this is your first time cooking flank steak or you need a refresher, you may want to check out my Perfect Flank Steak Recipe over here.

    Why You’ll Love Flank Steak Fajitas

    • Fast and reliable: About 30 minutes of active cooking
    • Lean but flavorful: Flank steak stays tender when cooked and sliced correctly
    • No advance marinade: The reverse marinade saves time and avoids scorching
    • Balanced and filling: Protein, vegetables, and satisfying texture
    • Easy to adapt: Naturally dairy-free and simple to make gluten-free
    Flank Steak Fajitas

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    For the steak

    • 1½ pounds flank steak (anywhere from 1-2 pounds)
    • Kosher salt or fine grain sea salt
    • Freshly ground black pepper
    • Avocado oil or another high-heat oil, for searing

    Reverse marinade

    • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 2 large limes), plus more for serving
    • 2 cloves garlic, grated or pressed
    • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • Freshly ground black pepper

    For the fajitas

    • 1 large yellow onion, sliced
    • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 clove garlic, minced, pressed or grated

    For serving

    • Taco-size flour tortillas (or tortillas of choice)
    • Optional: avocado, sliced or mashed
    • Optional: chopped fresh cilantro
    flank steak fajitas

    How to Make Flank Steak Fajitas

    1. Season the flank steak & bring to room temp. Generously season both sides with kosher salt.
      • If you have time, let it sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes. This helps the steak cook more evenly, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
      • Cut the steak into sections before cooking: If your flank steak is long or uneven in thickness, cut it into 3–4 shorter pieces before searing. They cook more evenly and a bit faster, and you’re slicing the steak anyway before serving.
    2. Make the marinade and chop the veggies. While the steak comes to room temp, make the reverse marinade by combining the lime juice, grated garlic, olive oil, cumin, sea salt, and a few spins of black pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
    3. Cook the steak. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and heat a large (12-inch if you have it) skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add a generous glug of avocado oil. Sear the steak for 3–5 minutes per side, until nicely browned on the outside and still pink in the center. If it’s smoking alot and not cooked through, turn the pan to medium and cook until desired doneness (typically 135–140°F)
    4. Reverse marinate the hot steak. Transfer the steak immediately to a shallow bowl or dish, pour the marinade over the top, and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes so the steak absorbs the marinade and finishes cooking gently. Now is a good time to warm the tortillas if needed.
    5. Cook the peppers and onions: While the steak rests, return the skillet to medium heat. Add another splash of oil if needed, then add the sliced onions and peppers. Cook until softened, about 7–8 minutes. A few minutes in, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan and pick up the browned bits. About 5 minutes into cooking the vegetables, add the garlic (carefully, to avoid burning), ¼ teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook just until fragrant 1-2 minutes, then turn off the heat. Adjust seasoning to taste.
    6. Plate: Warm the tortillas in the oven, microwave, or directly over a gas flame and keep them wrapped in a towel. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and slice the steak against the grain into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add it back to the pan with the peppers and onions (off the heat) to keep warm. Be sure to slice against the grain for the best texture.
    7. To Serve: Let’s everyone build their own, we like avocado on the bottom, then steak and veggies, then top with cilantro. Serve immediately.

    Variations & Substitutions

    • Skirt steak: Skirt steak is the more traditional cut of beef for fajitas and works just as well here. It’s slightly fattier than flank steak and very flavorful, but benefits from the same quick sear and slicing against the grain.
    • Choose your toppings: We like to keep it simple with avocado and cilantro, but you can add salsa, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, spicy pepper, or hot sauce. Use your favorite taco toppings.
    • Different vegetables: We prefer traditional fajitas with peppers and onions, but feel free to swap in sliced poblano peppers, mushrooms, or even thinly sliced zucchini to use up what you have. Just aim for vegetables that cook quickly and soften without releasing too much water.
    • Gluten-free: Use corn tortillas or your favorite gluten-free tortillas to keep the meal completely gluten-free. Or, skip the tortillas and serve it over cooked white rice or cooked brown rice.
    • Switch up the reverse marinade: Add a few tablespoons of fresh orange juice, a teaspoon of chipotle in adobo, chili powder, spices or other flavor combos. Once you learn this method, you can play with the flavors and ratios to make it your own.
    • Citrus swap: Lime juice gives the best flavor, but lemon works if that’s what you have. If using lemon, add a small splash of water to mellow the acidity.
    • Extra heat: Add sliced jalapeño to the pan with the peppers and onions, or finish with a dash of hot sauce.
    • Hate cilantro? Leave it out! 🙂

    Chef Tips for the Best Steak Fajitas Recipe

    • Use a hot pan: Whether you’re using cast iron or stainless steel, let the pan heat fully before adding the steak. A hot pan is what gives you a good sear without overcooking the meat.
    • Choose the right oil: Use a high–smoke point oil like avocado oil, beef tallow, or grapeseed oil for searing. Save extra-virgin olive oil for the marinade only.
    • Don’t skip the rest: Resting the steak in the marinade allows it to finish cooking gently and absorb flavor. This step makes the steak noticeably juicier.
    • Slice against the grain: Flank steak has long muscle fibers. Cutting across them is essential for tenderness — it’s one of the most important steps in the recipe.
    • Deglaze for flavor: That small splash of water added to the pan while cooking the vegetables lifts the browned bits left from the steak, adding depth to the fajitas without extra ingredients.
    • Serve off the heat: Once the steak is sliced, keep it off the heat to prevent overcooking. Adding it back to the warm pan (with the heat off) keeps everything juicy and tender.

    Storage & Meal Prep

    • Store leftover steak and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
    • Keep tortillas stored separately so they don’t dry out
    • Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat

    Leftovers make an excellent lunch or quick dinner the next day.

    Want more healthy home cooking inspiration? Find more taco recipes here.

    Flank Steak Fajitas FAQs

    Why is flank steak good for fajitas?
    Flank steak is lean, flavorful, and cooks quickly over high heat. When sliced against the grain, it stays tender and works perfectly for fajitas.

    What is a reverse marinade?
    Instead of marinating before cooking, the steak rests in the marinade after searing. This prevents burning and keeps the flavor fresh and bright. Plus, you don’t have to think ahead to marinate the meat.

    Do I have to let the steak come to room temperature?
    It helps the steak cook more evenly, but if you’re short on time, the recipe still works well without it. In general, letting meat sit out for 30–60 minutes helps it cook more evenly because you’re not starting with a very cold center. Meat coming straight from the fridge (around 40°F) needs more time to heat through, which can lead to the outside browning before the inside is cooked to your liking. That said, if you’re short on time, you can absolutely skip this step—just keep the heat slightly lower if needed and cook until the steak reaches your desired doneness.

    The post Easy Flank Steak Fajitas (Weeknight-Friendly) appeared first on Elizabeth Rider – Modern Healthy Living.

  • Nicki Sebastian’s Foolproof Eyeliner Trick (Even for Marathons)

    Nicki Sebastian’s Foolproof Eyeliner Trick (Even for Marathons)

    Nicki Sebastian's Foolproof Eyeliner Trick

    Photographer Nicki Sebastian doesn’t wear a ton of makeup, except for her cat-eye liner, which she’s worn for 30 years, every day since eighth grade. “I’ve worn it through every occasion imaginable: marathons, snorkeling,” she says.… Read more

    The post Nicki Sebastian’s Foolproof Eyeliner Trick (Even for Marathons) appeared first on Cup of Jo.

  • The Best Liquid Blushes for a Natural-Looking Flush

    The Best Liquid Blushes for a Natural-Looking Flush

    If liquid blush isn’t already in your makeup bag, it’s time. The right formula does what powder never could: a natural, flushed-from-within glow that actually looks like you, just better. I tested the dewiest, the cleanest, the most beginner-friendly, and the most pigmented to bring you the best ones worth your money right now.

    The Best Liquid Blushes for a Natural-Looking Flush

    Best Overall: Chantecaille Cheek Gelée

    If you haven’t tried the Chantecaille Cheek Gelée yet, consider this your sign. This gel-cream formula is genuinely in a league of its own. It melts into skin so naturally that it looks less like makeup and more like your complexion just decided to behave beautifully that day. The finish is naturally radiant and buildable, giving you a fresh, flushed look without any of the effort. Lightweight enough to feel like nothing, but it has the staying power of a stain.

    It also checks every clean beauty box. It’s free of parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and built on pure botanical ingredients. The shade range consists of soft pinks to more vibrant tones. Flirty Raspberry (aka Vibrant), a universally flattering sunkissed pink, is the shade I’m obsessed with.

    Where to buy: Chantecaille, Nordstrom, Bluemercury, Dermstore

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    Best For Mature Skin: Saie Dew Blush

    Saie’s Dew Blush earns a top spot for its unmatched combination of performance and skin-nourishing ingredients. The lightweight, gel-like formula melts seamlessly into skin (over bare skin or foundation) and gives you a soft, luminous finish without any stickiness. It doesn’t settle into fine lines, and the hyaluronic acid keeps the formula hydrating and glow-boosting, which makes it especially flattering on mature or dry skin.

    The shade range spans peachy nudes to rosy pinks, and the pigment builds beautifully with each layer. The soft-tip tube applicator makes things super easy and mess-free. The shade I have is the Bright Berry, which adds that perfect healthy flush on days when my skin is looking a little flat.

    Where to buy: Saie, Sephora

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    Best For Beginners: Skin By Ella Blush Créme

    Skin By Ella Liquid Blush (the name includes créme, but it’s a liquid consistency) is a close second and what I’d recommend for someone who might not know where to start. The formula is lightweight, streak-free, and incredibly easy to blend with fingertips, a sponge, or a brush. It’s enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, and gives all-day hydration with a radiant, skin-loving finish.

    The shade range is flattering and versatile, and Flamingo, “the perfect pink,” doubles beautifully as a lip tint. If you appreciate a product that multi-tasks without extra effort, this one is it.

    Where to buy: Skin By Ella, Anthropologie, Shopbop

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    Best for Glow: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

    The Rare Beauty Liquid Blush needs no introduction, but it’s worth emphasizing just how pigmented it is. A single dot goes a long way. The silky, blendable texture melts into skin with a dewy, lit-from-within finish, and it works beautifully under or over powder.

    The shade range is extensive, running from soft pinks to vibrant corals and deep berries, so it’s suitable for every skin tone.

    Where to buy: Rare Beauty, Sephora, Ulta

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    Best for Effortless Application: Tarte Blush Tape Liquid Blush

    Tarte makeup definitely has a cult following (for good reason), and the Blush Tape Liquid Blush is a standout. It actually has a unique hybrid formula that blurs and plumps for an instant cheek lift. The shea butter and mineral pigments give it a silky-soft feel, while the diamond powder reflects light for a soft-focus glow.

    The formula is also infused with mango butter to moisturize and condition, while brightening as well. It’s free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances, as well as vegan and cruelty-free. The precision cushion tip applicator is adorable and lets you place color exactly where you want it (no brush or fingers required). Just dot onto the apples of the cheeks and blend upward for a seamless, dewy flush.

    This blush made the cut for the best Tarte makeup I’ve tried. They actually carry my favorite tubing mascara, too.

    Where to buy: Tarte, Ulta, Target

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    Best Matte Finish: NARS Liquid Blush

    If a dewy look isn’t your thing, NARS Liquid Blush is the go-to for a soft, velvety matte finish. It has a thinner, weightless formula that blends nicely into the skin and sets to a smooth texture that doesn’t look flat or powdery.

    The doe-foot wand applicator makes application easy, and the shade range covers everything from soft pinks to deeper tones. Orgasm, the iconic NARS shade, has a classic golden-pink flush and is just beautiful.

    Where to buy: NARS Cosmetics, Sephora, Nordstrom

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    Best Non-Toxic: Crunchi Cheekmate Liquid Blush

    For anyone who prioritizes clean beauty without compromise, I recommend Crunchi’s Liquid Blush. This cruelty-free, eco-conscious formula is made without questionable ingredients and powered by skin-loving actives like vitamin E. The pigment is soft but buildable, with a natural, polished flush that layers well. Cheeky, a soft rose shade, is the one to try first (and my personal favorite of all the Crunchi makeup I’ve tried).

    Where to buy: Crunchi

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does powder or liquid blush last longer?

    Liquid blush generally has better longevity than powder, especially when layered and lightly set with a translucent powder.

    Is liquid or cream blush better?

    It depends on your skin type and preference. Liquid blushes tend to be more lightweight and blendable with a dewy finish, while cream blushes offer a bit more control and come in a wider range of finishes from matte to satin. If you like the idea of a liquid blush but maybe prefer the finish of a cream blush, the ILIA Color Haze Blush is the perfect mix in my opinion. If you’re an ILIA fan, here’s my makeup review. You can also see my other favorite cream blushes here.

    Is liquid blush better for older skin?

    In my opinion, yes. Liquid blush blends smoothly without settling into fine lines and gives a radiant, youthful finish that powder formulas often can’t match.

    How do I apply liquid blush without overdoing it?

    Start with less than you think you need (one small dot per cheek), and blend immediately with fingertips or a sponge. Build up gradually rather than starting heavy.

    Final Thoughts

    Finding your perfect liquid blush is kind of like finding a great moisturizer. Once you land on the one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. The best part is, it’s honestly hard to go wrong. Start with a single dot, blend it out, and build from there. That’s really all there is to it! Whether you’re a first-timer or just ready to upgrade your routine, any pick on this list is a solid place to start. Happy blending!

    Other Posts You Might Like:

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    The post The Best Liquid Blushes for a Natural-Looking Flush appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

  • 8 Readers Share the Recipes They Know by Heart

    8 Readers Share the Recipes They Know by Heart

    8 readers' favorite easy recipes

    My friends and I make Alison Roman’s squash and lentil soup so often that in our group chat we’ve taken to referring to it as “our soup.”… Read more

    The post 8 Readers Share the Recipes They Know by Heart appeared first on Cup of Jo.

  • Twenty Years in Heels

    Each year, for one delirious stretch of Himmarshee Village in downtown Fort Lauderdale, the street turns into a wobbling runway of stilettos—this year on May 2—as women and men stride (and occasionally teeter) in sky-high heels while children, canines, and a sea of pink wigs add to the spectacle and cameras flash through the cheering crowd. For Tammy Gail, the scene represents far more than comic relief. It is the public face of a mission she has spent two decades building.

    Glam-A-THON™, the charity behind High Heel Hike™, has become one of South Florida’s most recognizable grassroots fundraisers for breast cancer support. Over the past two decades, Glam-A-THON™ events have donated roughly $750,000 to help families across the region navigate the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis. 

    On May 2, the event returns to mark its twentieth anniversary, bringing the city back to the street where it all began.

    The story behind the spectacle begins with a phone call Tammy never expected to make.

    Diagnosed with breast cancer while raising her young son as a single mother, she remembers confronting a fear that had little to do with medicine.

    “Probably the most difficult thing a single mom with sole custody of her child has to do is find a next of kin,” she says. “I remember calling my sister in New Jersey to make sure my son, David, would have a loving home if my outcome was different.”

    Treatment moved quickly. What began as a lumpectomy became a mastectomy, then a bilateral mastectomy followed by multiple surgeries and chemotherapy. Amid the rush of appointments and procedures, Tammy found herself fighting to hold onto something many patients quietly lose during treatment.

    Her sense of self.

    “I told my doctors I didn’t want to lose my ‘me,’” she says. “The exterior certainly looked different, but I was still Tammy Gail—a mom, sister, daughter, friend. I didn’t want to become just a clinical study.”

    That determination became the foundation for Glam-A-THON™.

    “Following my mastectomy and recovery, I promised myself to make a meaningful impact for women with breast cancer in a way that would be noticed,” Tammy says.

    Her answer was deliberately unconventional.

    “There are so many organizations surrounding breast cancer that we had to do something to stand out,” she explains. “Cancer is a somber topic, and I was sick and tired of the pink ribbon becoming a defining icon in my life. I wanted an irreverent event that made people stop, notice, and laugh a little.”

    The High Heel Hike™ did exactly that. The premise is simple: participants of every shape, size, and background strut or sashay along the New River in stilettos. The result is chaotic, hilarious, and impossible to ignore. What began as a playful stunt evolved into something larger. Over time, Glam-A-THON™ built a network of volunteers, sponsors, and supporters who believed the event’s humor opened the door to a more serious conversation about how cancer reshapes everyday life.

    Last year, the organization directed its fundraising toward Gilda’s Club South Florida, which provides free emotional support and community programming for people impacted by cancer.

    “Unlike traditional hospital-based care, which focuses primarily on medical treatment, our model addresses the emotional, social, and practical challenges that come with a diagnosis,” says Kim Praitano, President and CEO of Gilda’s Club South Florida. “Our members are surrounded by others facing similar challenges, creating a space where no one has to go through cancer alone.”

    Tammy felt that philosophy immediately when she first walked through the organization’s doors.

    “As soon as I walked into the lobby of Gilda’s Club on my first tour, I knew it was special,” she says. “There is a Zen feeling when you walk into the building. I know how stormy the sea is when you’re going through treatment, and having a space that brings a deep sense of calm is very healing.”

    According to Praitano, Tammy’s events have done more than raise money. They have strengthened the broader support network surrounding patients and caregivers.

    “Tammy brings the South Florida community together through the High Heel Hike™,” Praitano says. “Her energy and persistence raise critical funds while allowing us to remain focused on delivering essential services.”

    The assistance Glam-A-THON™ provides often reaches people at the most human level: helping families cover living expenses during treatment, supporting caregivers, or stepping in when a patient’s finances collapse under the weight of medical appointments.

    “The key word is dignity,” Tammy says. “Our mission is to provide dignity to every patient we have the honor of helping.” 

    This year’s anniversary event will be the most ambitious yet, with television anchor Lynn Martinez and drag performer Amanda Austin serving as emcees. “We are about to throw the biggest pink party Fort Lauderdale has ever seen,” Tammy says.

    Twenty years in, the formula remains the same: joy, community, and a pair of stilettos turning laughter into lifelines for families who need them most. Gail hopes this year’s celebration will push Glam-A-THON™ past a milestone she once only imagined—$1 million donated to South Florida families—as teams, sponsors, and brave volunteers sign up to help Kiss Breast Cancer Goodbye.  

    glam-a-thon.com

    The post Twenty Years in Heels appeared first on Lifestyle Media Group.

  • Where to Eat this Easter

    Where to Eat this Easter

    Spring is in the air, and South Florida restaurants are leaning into Easter with everything from elegant prix-fixe brunches to lively, oceanfront gatherings. Whether the pln calls for Champagne and caviar or a table filled with shared plates, these destinations offer a polished way to celebrate.

    BROWARD

    Big City Tavern – Fort Lauderdale

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    Dinner specials include braised lamb shank and pistachio-crusted trout in a relaxed Las Olas setting. A solid choice for those who prefer a classic Easter meal without the brunch crowd.

    Louie Bossi’s – Fort Lauderdale

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    A lively all-day Italian menu features shareable starters and slow-braised lamb. Expect a festive atmosphere and a packed dining room.

    La Fuga – Fort Lauderdale Beach

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    Italian-style brunch with pastries, eggs, pastas, and optional bottomless mimosas. The Shorebreak setting keeps the mood relaxed and coastal.

    Lona Cocina & Tequileria – Fort Lauderdale

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    Beachfront brunch includes chef stations, live music, margaritas, and Easter Bunny photos. A fun pick for families and groups.

    Oceanic – Pompano Beach

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    Choose between a rooftop buffet with carving stations and seafood displays or a more casual à la carte brunch downstairs. Ocean views make this one of Broward’s best holiday backdrops.


    PALM BEACH COUNTY

    Elisabetta’s – Delray Beach

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    All-day Easter specials include burrata, lobster maritozza, and grilled tuna. A polished but easygoing Atlantic Avenue favorite.

    City Oyster & Sushi Bar – Delray Beach

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    Dinner features lamb chops, smoked salmon, and seafood favorites in a lively dining room. Ideal for those skipping brunch.

    Louie Bossi’s – Boca Raton

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    The Boca location serves the same festive Italian menu, perfect for families looking for an energetic holiday meal.


    MIAMI-DADE

    Jaya at The Setai

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    An elevated Easter brunch in The Setai’s lush courtyard features caviar, seafood towers, grilled specialties, and free-flowing Champagne alongside live jazz and family activities. The lavish spread and elegant setting make this one of Miami Beach’s most sought-after holiday reservations.

    CATCH Miami Beach

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    Celebrate Easter on the rooftop terrace with a chef-driven brunch featuring seafood stations, carving boards, sushi, and seasonal desserts. The lively South of Fifth setting blends springtime energy with a polished dining experience.

    Maple & Ash Miami

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    This indulgent prix-fixe brunch includes caviar service, a roasted seafood tower, and elevated entrées ranging from crab Benedict to shakshouka. A dessert table finale and mimosa bar keep the celebration going well into the afternoon.

    Daniel’s Miami

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    Daniel’s offers a refined Easter brunch with spring-forward starters, lamb ragù, branzino, and classic steakhouse favorites. The polished Coral Gables setting makes it ideal for a traditional holiday gathering.

    Yamashiro Miami

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    Downtown’s rooftop Japanese restaurant celebrates with a Sakura-inspired brunch featuring wagyu, matcha French toast, and craft cocktails. Skyline views and theatrical presentation make this one of the city’s most distinctive Easter options.

    RosaNegra Miami

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    A high-energy Viva Brunch brings raw bar selections, ceviches, steak, lobster tacos, and live music to Brickell. Expect a festive crowd, bold flavors, and a brunch that feels more like an event.

    Rose Cafe & Restaurant

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    This Sunny Isles favorite serves a three-course prix-fixe brunch with lamb ragù, roasted branzino, and classic Italian desserts. It’s a slower, more traditional Easter meal built for lingering at the table.

    Madame Olivia

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    A relaxed North Miami café offering pastries, eggs Benedict, and Mediterranean favorites all day. Perfect for families looking for an easy, stylish Easter without a fixed menu.

    Sufrat Mediterranean Grill

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    Hosting at home? Sufrat’s catering packages include kebabs, shawarma, dips, and salads designed for sharing. The generous platters make holiday entertaining simple.

    FLORIDA KEYS

    Cheeca Lodge & Spa – Islamorada

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    A full Easter day includes sunrise service, egg hunt, and a seafood-forward brunch buffet at Atlantic’s Edge. It’s a destination-style celebration worth the drive.

    The post Where to Eat this Easter appeared first on Lifestyle Media Group.

  • How Smart Parents Are Maintaining Fun-Filled Lifestyles

    Parenthood doesn’t have to mean putting your life on hold.

    The idea that fun, spontaneity, and genuine joy disappear when you have kids is one of the most persistent myths in parenting culture. Smart parents know better. With the right systems, the right mindset, and a real commitment to keeping life enjoyable, it’s absolutely possible to thrive as a parent rather than just survive it.

    Here are eight strategies the most intentional parents use to keep the fun very much alive.


    1

    Build a Parent Network

    One of the smartest things a parent can do is stop treating childcare as a two-person operation. Building a tight-knit network of other parents creates a genuinely powerful support system, one where everyone covers for each other when the need arises. Instead of you and your partner always being the only two people responsible for your children, you can arrange playdates with trusted families so you get time away, and return the favor when they need the same.

    This model works better than most people expect. The relationships it creates aren’t just convenient for the adults. Children thrive when they have consistent friendships and experience the warmth of being welcomed into other families’ homes. The playdate swap is the original “village” in practice, and it requires nothing more than a bit of coordination and mutual trust.

    How to build it: Start with two or three families you already trust and propose a simple rotating schedule. Even one covered evening a month per family makes a meaningful difference. The network tends to grow naturally once the structure is in place.

    2

    Turn Chores Into Games

    The sheer volume of domestic work involved in running a family household is one of the things that quietly drains parental joy. Dishes, laundry, cooking, tidying — it is relentless, and when it feels like a grind it tends to crowd out the fun. The reframe that changes everything is simple: stop doing chores in silence and start doing them together with some kind of energy.

    Blast music and make cleaning a competition. Give everyone a zone and a timer. Turn cooking into a collaborative event where kids have genuine jobs, not just pretend ones. Create a silly points system with ridiculous prizes. The tasks themselves don’t change, but the experience of doing them shifts from obligation into something that actually generates connection. Many families find that chore time becomes one of the more memorable parts of their week once they commit to this approach. For more ideas on creating a home that supports energy and engagement rather than draining it, our guide to creating a clutter-free, calm home environment is a good starting point.

    Try this: Pick one weekend chore and turn it into a game this week. Keep score, add a reward, play a playlist everyone chooses together. Notice whether it actually goes faster. It almost always does.

    3

    Use an Au Pair

    For families who want consistent, flexible, live-in childcare without the rigidity of traditional daycare arrangements, an au pair is one of the most practical solutions available. An au pair is a young person from another country, typically between 18 and 26, who lives with your family and provides childcare in exchange for room, board, a weekly stipend, and an educational contribution. The arrangement is regulated by the U.S. Department of State through the J-1 cultural exchange visa program, which means there are clear guidelines, screening requirements, and ongoing support structures built in.

    Platforms like Go Au Pair walk families through the entire process, from understanding the requirements to reviewing screened candidates and making a match. All au pairs on professional platforms undergo background checks, reference verification, psychometric testing, and English proficiency screening before their profiles are ever made available to families. Beyond the practical childcare support, many families find that hosting an au pair adds genuine cultural richness to their home life. Children develop language awareness, exposure to different traditions, and friendships that often extend well past the placement year.

    What to look for: Choose a platform that provides dedicated local support throughout the placement, not just at the matching stage. Local area representatives who stay involved month to month are what separate a smooth experience from a frustrating one.

    4

    Make Time for Family Adventures

    Smart parents treat fun as non-negotiable rather than as something that happens when everything else is finished. That shift in how you categorize it changes everything. Family adventures don’t need to be expensive, elaborate, or exhausting. In fact, some of the most memorable ones require almost no preparation at all.

    A Saturday morning walk somewhere new. A backyard picnic with a blanket and snacks that usually live in the kitchen. A glow stick dance party after dark. An impromptu drive to somewhere none of you have been. The common thread isn’t the activity; it’s the intention behind it. Families who schedule low-effort adventures regularly tend to have children who are more adaptable, more curious, and genuinely more fun to be around. These experiences also build the kind of shared vocabulary that families draw on for years. For inspiration on bigger experiences to plan toward, our piece on setting meaningful travel goals has ideas worth bookmarking, and our summer entertaining tips are full of easy ways to make ordinary days feel like an event.

    The mindset shift: Stop asking whether you have time for an adventure and start asking what the smallest version of an adventure could look like this week. Almost always, the answer is something you can do right now.

    5

    Start Mornings With Connection and Play

    How you begin the day as a family shapes everything that follows. Research consistently shows that setting a positive tone in the morning has a measurable effect on mood, patience, and resilience throughout the rest of the day. For parents, this means that a few minutes of genuine connection before the day’s obligations take over can transform the quality of the entire day.

    That connection doesn’t need to be formal or time-consuming. Dancing together in the kitchen while breakfast is cooking. Reading a few pages of a book together before anyone looks at their phone. Building something with blocks, even briefly, before the school run begins. These moments are small in duration and enormous in impact. They fill what some family therapists describe as the “love tank” early in the day, making children easier to be around and making parents feel less like logistics managers and more like the people they actually want to be. Research even suggests that dancing specifically supports cognitive health and mood in ways that carry real benefits for both parents and kids.

    Start here: Choose one morning ritual this week that doesn’t involve a screen. Keep it short enough to be sustainable. Five minutes of genuine connection is worth more than an hour of parallel scrolling.

    6

    Prioritize Self-Care

    Parents who neglect their own wellbeing inevitably have less of themselves to give. This isn’t a guilt trip; it’s simple arithmetic. You cannot generate patience, warmth, humor, or presence when you are running on empty. Smart parents understand this and treat their own basic needs — sleep, movement, time away from the family role, genuine rest — as non-negotiable rather than as luxuries to be earned when everything else is done.

    Self-care looks different for everyone. For some parents it means 30 minutes of exercise before the day begins. For others it means protecting one evening a week for something entirely their own. Many find that simply putting their phone away during family time and being genuinely present, rather than physically there but mentally elsewhere, makes them feel more connected and less depleted. The research on this is clear. Living in alignment with your actual values and attending to your own health correlates strongly with longer, more satisfying life outcomes. Our piece on lifestyle and lifespan explores this in more depth for anyone who wants to dig into the evidence.

    The key question: What is the one thing that, if you did it consistently, would make you noticeably more patient and present as a parent? Whatever that is, that is where to start.

    7

    Include Laughter Goals

    It sounds almost absurdly simple, but intentionally aiming to laugh at least once a day with your children changes the texture of daily family life in a way that is hard to overstate. Laughter is not just enjoyable; it is physiologically restorative. It reduces cortisol, releases endorphins, and creates the kind of shared positive experience that builds genuine closeness between parents and children over time.

    The vehicle for laughter doesn’t matter. Absurd games, tickle wars, terrible jokes told at the dinner table, impersonations, inside jokes that only your family understands. The point is that you are actively looking for it rather than waiting for it to happen on its own. Many parents find that scheduling something deliberately silly — a family game night, a joke-telling competition, a charades session — shifts the whole emotional register of the week. Life with kids shouldn’t feel like just trying to survive the day. It should feel creative, connected, and often genuinely funny.

    Make it a habit: At dinner tonight, ask everyone at the table to share the funniest thing that happened to them today. Do it every night for a week and notice how the dynamic at the table shifts.

    8

    Use Hacks to Free Up Mental Space

    Decision fatigue is a real and underappreciated drain on parental wellbeing. Every small decision you make throughout the day — what’s for dinner, where are the snacks, who is driving where — draws on the same finite cognitive reserve. By the time the evening arrives, many parents find they have nothing left to give in terms of patience or presence, not because they don’t want to, but because they’ve already spent it all on logistics.

    Smart parents reduce the number of decisions they have to make in real time by building systems that handle them in advance. Preparing meals for the week ahead on a Sunday is one of the most impactful examples. Setting up a snack station that children can access independently removes a category of requests entirely. Laying out school clothes the night before eliminates a morning negotiation. Creating a weekly rhythm where certain things happen on certain days removes the need to figure them out from scratch each week. The cumulative effect of these small systems is a significantly quieter mental environment, one where there is actual room for fun, spontaneity, and genuine engagement with your family.

    Start with one system: Pick the decision that costs you the most energy each week and build a simple structure around it. Meal planning is the highest return for most families, but choose whatever drains you most. One solved problem creates momentum for the next.

    The Bottom Line

    Fun-filled family life doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because someone in the family decides it matters and builds a life around that decision. The parents who pull it off aren’t doing it by having fewer responsibilities than everyone else. They’re doing it by thinking more intentionally about how those responsibilities are shared, structured, and approached. Start with one strategy this week and build from there.


    More From Better Living

    The post How Smart Parents Are Maintaining Fun-Filled Lifestyles appeared first on Better Living.

  • Mangalsutra!

    Mangalsutra!

    Married women wear this chain around their neck.

    All the husbands are required to tie this to their wives.

    Not every day but especially on the wedding day.

    Gold ones and other types are available.

    Always it’s from the groom’s side to gift this.

    Like the significance of being married in Hinduism.

    So protecting the couple.

    Under every situation.

    To make their relationship stronger.

    Rarely do ladies wear it daily now.

    As many have their personal choices!