my experience at the world of barbie event.

Though it is still difficult for me to be out and about in the world...my family continues to encourage me to leave the house every now and then. This time? It was the lure of Barbie that encouraged me to head outside. Not too far away, the World of Barbie exhibit was available for fans of all ages to live their Barbie fantasy. There was a full-sized model of the Barbie Dreamhouse and camper van as well as life size Barbie doll boxes, a Barbie space shuttle, and more. It was certainly a feast for the eyes! For as long as I can remember, this iconic doll has been a part of my life. (My first word was "Barbie.") I admired her incredible house, undeniable eye for fashion, and the fact that she could be literally anything. Given my history with the doll, it was hard to resist a Barbie themed event. Ready to find out how it was? Take a peek at all of the recreations? Keep reading...

does it work?? sally hansen nail polish (good. kind. pure.)

When it comes to nail polish, certain brands stand out. Essie. OPI. Sally Hansen. The latter is my personal favourite. There are a lot of really excellent Sally Hansen products, from the Miracle Gel line to the Insta-Dry line and everything in between. Today? It is time to take a look at a newer formula from the brand: Good. Kind. Pure. This vegan nail polish was certainly intriguing. Out of all the nail polishes I have tried over the years (and there have been many nail polishes in my life) this was the first time I recall seeing a vegan polish. So...does it work?? Here is everything you need to know about this new line from Sally Hansen. 

kim chic chic beauty: teddy kim boyfriend (review + #FOTD)

It is all Kim Chi Chic Beauty all the time around here these days. I have been making the absolute most of the products lately. Just like the Girlfriend version, the Teddy Kim Boyfriend Eye and Cheek Palette comes in an adorable teddy bear shape. It is sturdy enough to stand up on its own and can be customized with the included stickers. Unlike the other version, this has some really bright and colourful eyeshadows hidden away inside. (Which is definitely what I would expect from a drag queen makeup line!) I love that both of the palettes from this line have distinct colour stories. Ready to see what this palette actually looks like? How I decorated it? A recent #FOTD? Keep reading for all the details on this oh-so-cute eye and cheek palette. 

kim chic chic beauty: teddy kim girlfriend (review + #FOTD)

It is time for a little more Kim Chi Chic Beauty! My last post included a mini haul of some items from the brand and also a review of the High Key Gloss in the shade Natural. Today? It is all about the Girlfriend Eye and Cheek Palette. This is described as a merch and makeup hybrid, because it is literally shaped like a pink teddy bear and can stand on its own. There is also makeup tucked away inside. Such a cute idea and absolutely adorable to have on display. Bonus? The Teddy Kim set comes with stickers so you can personalize your own bear. It is a great way to feel like a kid again and get creative. Clearly, the packaging is outstanding...but what about what is on the inside? It is time to take a look at the eye and cheek products.

kim chi chic beauty (mini haul + high key gloss review)

RuPaul's Drag Race has introduced the world to many talented drag performers. Over the years, some have stood out to me more than others. My all-time favourite is Alaska, but another performer that is high on my list is Kim Chi from Season 8 of RuPaul's Drag Race. I immediately fell in love with her incredible makeup skills. Kim Chi is ridiculously talented and has continued to gain popularity post-show. Especially since Kim Chi Chic Beauty launched back in 2019. Good news for Canadian fans and beauty lovers: the beauty brand is finally available in Canada. Many of the products can be found on the Shoppers Drug Mart website. Which is exactly how this mini haul of Kim Chi Chic Beauty came to be. 

review: harry potter love potion candle (charmed aroma)

Harry Potter has been a constant in my life. I have such wonderful memories of lining up for book releases and midnight screenings of the movies. Of staying up too late reading and re-reading the books. Of relaxing on a Sunday afternoon with my favourite Harry Potter film. Though the author is not someone I support any longer, I still love the Harry Potter world. (It is hard to believe that someone who wrote about love and understanding could be so...well...you know.) The stories were about good versus evil, confronting your fears, and doing the right thing. They were about friendship, found family, and love. It makes sense that these stories have connected with so many readers and viewers around the world. Since Harry Potter is still an important part of my life, it was hard to resist the latest Charmed Aroma release: a Love Potion Candle. 

rediscovered foundation: maybelline dream matte mousse

Talk about a flashback. It had been years since I last saw the Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse on a drugstore shelf. Then, suddenly, there is was, as if no time had passed at all. Immediately, I was reminded of life before. Of girls nights out, of my old fast food job, and university classes. This product certainly sparked a lot of nostalgia. So, of course, it only made sense to give it another try. Would it be just like the Dream Matte Mousse I used to know? Would it actually work well? I had to find out. If you're curious about this old-school drugstore product from Maybelline, keep reading for all the details.

love it or leave it? olivia wilde

There is something thrilling about red carpet style. Whether it is a movie premiere or a press conference, celebrities certainly know how to inspire and turn heads. Case in point? Olivia Wilde at the Venice Film Festival press conference for her latest film, "Don't Worry Darling." Though there has been an awful lot of buzz about this movie, some good and some not-so-good, I am interested in seeing the film. There aren't nearly enough female directors out there. (According to a Forbes article, only 12% of directors working on the top 100 grossing films in 2021 were women.) So, this movie is on my radar. While reading some of the highlights from the press conference with the cast, I was immediately struck by Olivia Wilde's outfit, which was shown in the article. That gorgeous green colour. Wow! After seeing the entire look, it was clear that this was the perfect candidate for another love it or leave it? post here on the creation of beauty is art. Let's take a closer look at this press conference style...

does it work?? honest beauty (makeup remover wipes)

There are full skin care routine nights...and there are makeup remover wipe nights. Sometimes, my mind is clear, focused, and I am determined to take good care of my skin. Other times, I am so exhausted that it takes all my remaining energy to drag a makeup wipe across my face. Over the years, I've tried quite a few different makeup wipes from an assortment of brands. (I've even tried reusable makeup wipes, which are always nice to have on hand.) Though there are some that I like more than others, I wouldn't exactly say that I am brand loyal. It comes down to whatever is on sale. Recently, a sample of the Honest Beauty Makeup Remover Wipes was given to me. It was perfect timing, since I was low on makeup wipes. So, does it work?? Here is everything you need to know about the Honest Beauty Makeup Remover Wipes with Grape Seed and Olive Oils. 

charmed aroma: review and reveal (alice in wonderland)

Over the last few years, there have been several Charmed Aroma posts here on the creation of beauty is art. My friend introduced me to these accessory candles and it was love at first light! Ready for another review and reveal? The latest is an Alice in Wonderland themed candle. It is no secret that I am a Disney fanatic. Though there were many cartoons that I loved growing up, but Alice in Wonderland was always a favourite. I loved Alice, her world, and my personal favourite, the glasses bird. There were so many fantastic characters! So, it was especially thrilling to light this Alice in Wonderland themed candle. Ready to see what was inside? Here is everything you need to know about this Charmed Aroma release.

revisited review: morphe x coca cola awe together artistry palette

Sometimes, it is nice to look back instead of looking forward. Even though photographs of the latest holiday makeup collections have been released recently (Really! Brands like Too Faced and Benefit have already shared images of their Christmas collections for the year)....it is nice to focus on the products that are already in my collection. One of my resolutions was to buy less makeup and use more of what I already own. Which is why it only makes sense to do a little revisited review here on the creation of beauty is art. The Morphe x Coca Cola Awe Together Artistry Palette is a favourite of mine. I have used it many, many, many times over the last year. Since this is a standout product and is still available on the Sephora website, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to share my thoughts on this stellar 1971 themed eyeshadow palette.

pros and cons: rimmel wonder extension mascara

Ready for a little more drugstore? Today, it is time to take a look at a mascara from Rimmel. I'll be honest...this brand makes me ultra nostalgic. That is because it is one of the first makeup brands that I ever used. There was this eyeshadow that looked like the Union Jack and I was obsessed. (Take a trip down memory lane with me by checking out a very old blog post here.) I used that little eyeshadow set consistently, along with plenty of other Rimmel products. In fact, my go-to foundation for many years was from Rimmel, before it was discontinued. This is one makeup brand that has been part of my life for a very long time. Now? It is time to find out how the Wonder Extension Mascara from Rimmel performs. 

review: maybelline lifter gloss (lip gloss with hyaluronic acid)

Oh, how I have missed Maybelline. This is a brand that I used to buy from on a pretty regular basis, but then the pandemic happened. I stopped leaving the house as often and that meant there were only very occasional stops off at the drugstore. However, the Lifter Gloss was recently recommended to me. It has been described as a dupe for the Fenty Gloss Bomb. Of course, this makes it intriguing. A drugstore version of a beloved high-end product? It was worth a shot. So, the Maybelline Lifter Gloss with Hyaluronic Acid came home with me. There were several different shades to choose from, but 020 Sun really stood out to me. Ready to find out how this drugstore lip gloss performs? Here are all the details...

revisited television obsession: hidden palms

It was the spring and summer of 2007. For one night a week, my life revolved around the latest CW television show, Hidden Palms. It was love at first watch. I mean, total obsession. After watching the pilot episode for the first time, I knew this was a show that I would want to watch again and again. So, I recorded the episodes onto VHS. After all, there was Taylor Handley, Amber Heard, and Gail O'Grady. The cast was stellar and the premise was right up my alley. The show focused on a group of teenagers and their families...but it had a mystery element to it as well. There were plenty of secrets and scandals to uncover in Palm Springs. Unfortunately, the series only lasted for eight episodes and was cancelled due to low ratings. The truth? There are many shows I have loved over the years that did not have a lengthy run time. However, each left a lasting impression. Hidden Palms is proof of that. Fifteen years later, my obsession has been rekindled once more. 

september tries its best to have us forget summer.

There is something special about the month of September. It holds so much promise. There are the last moments of the summer season to enjoy as well as the earliest moments of the fall season. It represents endings and beginnings in the best possible way. Even though the fall season doesn't officially begin until September 22nd, once this month rolls around, my mind immediately shifts to autumn mode. This is probably because summer is my least favourite season. I know most people adore summer, but my favourite times of year are: fall, winter, spring, and summer. In that order! I love sweater weather, family traditions, and the cooler temperatures that are often associated with the fall season. Since fall is quickly approaching, it made sense to celebrate the start of the new season with some September inspirations and a few fall tag questions...

we must take adventures in order to know where we truly belong.

Cottage life is not exactly my favourite. I am definitely an air conditioning, binge-watching, indoor kind of person. Despite this, my summer plans included a week at a rented cottage in the Kawartha Lakes area. The reason? My family. We went to a cottage last summer, because it seemed like the safest way to do something different in the midst of the pandemic. This year, they wanted to repeat the experience. Though we did not stay in the exact same cottage or the exact same area...it was not too far from the last place. Since I am not really an outdoor person, and cottage life is all about embracing the great outdoors, the week was a bit of a struggle for me. I was definitely missing my laptop, my Netflix, and my everyday routine. However, I did my best to make the most of the time there. Here are some cottage highlights from my latest adventure...

cloud 2.0 (review and comparison)

There are a lot of Ariana Grande perfumes in my collection these days. Honestly? I love them. Her fragrances tend to be sweet and often smell like candy and marshmallow. As someone who loves sweet scents, Ariana Grande perfumes tend to be right up my alley. Recently, my mom gifted me her latest release, Cloud 2.0. Since one of my absolute favourite Ariana scents is the original Cloud...this was especially thrilling. Ready to find out more about this perfume and how it compares to the original? Here is everything you need to know about the latest celebrity fragrance on the market.

smiley x h&m (mini smiley face haul)

It was only a few months ago that I shared a post about my obsession with happy faces. Growing up, I absolutely loved them. To me, happy faces represented simple joys and optimism. They still do! Now that there is a resurgence in all things 90s and 00s, it seems that the happy face has returned to popularity once again. This is excellent news for me, because I have been able to find some really special and nostalgic items. Case in point? The Smiley x H&M collaboration. My mom needed to return something at the mall not too long ago and we did a bit of quick browsing. My eyes locked on the Smiley x H&M collection and it was all over. Though there were a lot of pieces that I would've loved to take home with me, only three ended up in my wardrobe. Ready to take a closer look? Find out more about these items? Here is a mini happy face haul....

fab or fail? so gloss heat activated nail wraps

I am no stranger to nail wraps, nail stickers, and at-home manicures. Since I do not enjoy getting my nails done professionally (social interaction and small talk? No thank you...) take home products are my favourite kinds. My drawer is overloaded with nail polishes, nail stickers, and nail wraps from various brands. When my mom gifted me the So Gloss Heat Activated Nail Wraps, I was extremely excited. The pink and gold design was beautiful, there were lots of nail size options included, and I was in the mood for something different. So, it is time to take a closer look at this set. Was the So Gloss Heat Activated Nail Wraps set fab or a total fail? Here is everything you need to know about this at-home nail product. 

testing out a friends themed eyeshadow palette.

This is not my first time testing out Friends themed makeup products. In fact, there was a collection from Revolution previously (which contained some seriously stellar items). It seems that Mad Beauty has also decided to release some items inspired by the iconic television show. According to the Mad Beauty website, there are bath products, lip balms, face masks, and even an eyeshadow palette. Since eyeshadow is easily my favourite beauty related, it only made sense to see how the palette performed. Curious about this product? It is time to take a look inside this Friends Eyeshadow Palette from Mad Beauty. 

review: physicians formula (diamond plumper)

Physicians Formula is a brand that often catches my attention but does not often come home with me when I happen to visit the drugstore. There is one simple reason for that: money. This is easily the most expensive brand at the drugstore! For me to splurge on something, it really has to be a product that I am eager to try. On the plus side, there have been a lot of excellent Physicians Formula products in my collection over the years. For instance, the murumuru lip butters and the Casey Holmes collection. The Diamond Plumper Mineral Wear Lip Plumper in the shade Brilliant Berry Diamond certainly caught my eye thanks to the bold packaging and colour. So....was this product worth the $12 CDN cost? Did it meet my expectations? Here is everything you need to know about this drugstore plumping gloss from Physicians Formula.

current skin care favourites: clinique moisture surge

Skin care is always important....but during the summer months, it is far easier for me to slack on my routine. When it is cold outside? I always remember to moisturize and hydrate. When it is warm? It takes a little bit of reminding. Even though my skin needs to be moisturized year-round, it is oh-so-easy to neglect self-care when summer rolls around. Thankfully, there are a couple of no brainer products that continue to impress. Today, it is time to take a closer look at some current skin care favourites from Clinique. These items are from the Moisture Surge line, including the moisturizer and face spray. 

review: jason wu everyday lip mask

Lip masks are an absolute must for me. My lips are always dry...and ever since the Nivea Essential Care Lip Balm formula changed, it has become that much harder to find products that work effectively. There are a few that are high on my list, including the Laneige Lip Sleeping Masks and a homemade concoction of coconut oil and beeswax. But quite frankly, I am always open to other options. I haven't found anything to completely replace the Nivea product. Well, Jason Wu Beauty recently became available in Canada. There were an awful lot of products to choose from, including the Everyday Lip Mask.

first impressions: cover girl exhibitionist stretch and strengthen

An awful lot of mascaras have come into my life over the years. Some have been wonderful and others have been...not nearly as wonderful. Out of all of them, The Super Sizer mascara from Cover Girl has been an absolute standout. It has become my holy grail mascara and is the one that I purchase over and over again. It just works! So, when it comes to Cover Girl mascaras, I am always open to trying something new from the brand, just to see how it compares to my all-time favourite. The Cover Girl Exhibitionist Stretch and Strengthen Mascara is designed to lengthen and strengthen the lashes. How does it perform? And how does it compare to The Super Sizer? Here are my first impressions of this drugstore mascara. 

does it work?? oh k! hyaluronic acid hydrogel mask

Some days are meant for face masks. Lots on your to do list? Exhausted by the end of the night? There is no better way to treat yourself than with a little skin care. Face masks tend to be a quick and easy way to pamper yourself and give your skin a little bit of a boost. Recently, I tried the Oh K! Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel Mask with Vitamin B3 and Sea Kelp. This mask is designed to hydrate and plump the skin. Sounds appealing, right? I've tried a few other products from Oh K! in the past. To be honest, some have been good and some have been a little lackluster. Ready to find out how this particular skin care item performed? If it lives up to the claims? Here is everything you need to know about this hydrogel mask from Oh K! 

colour is descriptive. black and white is interpretive.

Black and white photographs always seems to say more. They express longing, despair, and the complexity of human emotions in a way that colour photos cannot. Lately, I have been really inspired by black and white everything. Photography, movies, television shows...all of it. Perhaps this is because there is something achingly beautiful about black and white images of all kinds. They somehow peel back the layers and get to the heart of the matter. They say the things that we are too afraid to say. They tell our secrets. Since my world has been a little black and white recently, it only made sense to share a bit of that inspiration here on the creation of beauty is art. Here are some inspiration photos to add a little extra something to your day. Some of the images are moody and others are powerful, but all are meaningful, special, and important. 

charmed aroma review and reveal: masquerade bath bomb

Bath bombs are not exactly my favourite. The reason is pretty simple: I don't find sitting in a tub with lots of bubbles and fizz to be relaxing. That being said, I know many people who love taking luxurious baths with all the dressings. For those people, the Charmed Aroma Masquerade Bath Bomb would be ideal. For me? It was all about digging out the hidden treasure inside. This was a free little add on and so it only made sense to see what the ring inside would look like. It is always hard for me to resist cute accessories...especially when there is the added surprise. You never know what you are going to get. That is a little unnerving but also somewhat exciting. Some Charmed Aroma products have had incredible rings inside and others have been a little so-so. But I suppose that is the fun of it! Ready to find out more about the Masquerade Bath Bomb from Charmed Aroma? Here is everything you need to know about the bath bomb and the accessory inside.

without music, life would be a mistake.

Music has always been an important part of my life. It doesn't matter what is happening...there is a song to accompany the good, the bad, and the in between. Certain songs will forever be associated with specific times in my life. For instance, there was a playlist of dance songs (think Usher, the Black Eyes Peas, and Girlicious) that I used to listen to back in my going-out-and-clubbing days. There were songs that I listened to over and over again while falling in love with my husband. Music is meaningful and enjoyable, but it also acts as a reminder of the times that have passed. And sometimes, old songs take on new meanings! It really is so important to take time to listen to music. There are several songs that I have been listening to over and over again lately. Some are new and some are not-so-new, but one day, I am sure I will think back on this time and remember how meaningful those songs were. Today, I wanted to share some of my current favourite songs.

review: abh norvina mini pro pigment palette vol. 3

An eyeshadow palette with red, blue, green, pink, and glitter? Well, there certainly isn't an expected colour story in the Anastasia Beverly Hills Norvina Collection Mini Pro Pigment Palette Vol. 3. This release shares some similarities to the Mini Pro Pigment Palette Vol. 1, which was reviewed on the creation of beauty is art. not too long ago. (In case you missed that review, you can check it out here.) There are nine eyeshadows in total, a variety of finishes, and the palette itself is quite compact. There are also some pigments and some eyeshadows. Five of the shadows are traditional eyeshadows and the other four shades are pressed pigments. With lots of variety and some unexpected colour combinations, this is certainly a unique beauty product. Ready to take a look inside? Here is everything you need to know about the Mini Pro Pigment Palette Vol. 3. 

new in: juicy couture shoes (sneakers and slides)

Stuck in the 00s? Most definitely. I have to admit, it is kind of strange seeing the brands and trends that I love come back into style again. Even though Juicy Couture tracksuits and accessories were considered 'uncool' a few short years ago...they have suddenly become popular once more. This is excellent news for me, because I never stopped wearing any of it. I still have my Juicy Couture tracksuits, shirts, purses, and bracelets from the 00s! While I appreciate trends and think they are a lot of fun, at the end of the day, I wear what I like. If something I like is no longer trendy, that doesn't mean that I throw it all away. After all, fashion is not just about wearing the latest and greatest. It's about what makes you feel like your absolute best self. Thankfully, this Juicy Couture resurgence makes it a whole lot easier to find new items from the brand and fill in some gaps. Ready to take a peek at some Juicy Couture shoes? One is a new pair of sneakers and the other is a pair of slides for summer.

disney beauty week: belle inspired everything

Belle was always my favourite princess. I remember watching Beauty and the Beast over and over and over again as a child. Well, that never really stopped. It is still a movie that I love to watch to this day. The music, the enchanted castle, the beautiful clothes, and the library. Oh, that library is one of dreams. I loved that Belle prioritized reading, cared deeply for her father, knew what she wanted from life, and had no interest in men like Gaston. (Though I confess that the Beast never much interested me either, in either beast or human form.) Belle was never afraid to be true to herself, speak her mind, and learn new things. Since this is the last Disney beauty theme week post, it only made sense to focus on the unforgettable Belle. Take a peek at a new Beauty and the Beast makeup bag that has been added to my collection and my Belle inspired makeup look. 

elevate your style with purses from romytisa

The summer season is fully underway...and that means there is no better time to think about functional and fashionable accessories. There are so many to choose from! Sunglasses, sandals, shorts, and of course, purses and bags. Whether you are heading to the beach, shopping at the mall, meeting up with friends for dinner, or are checking out a baseball game, it is important to have a purse that holds all the essentials and expresses your personal sense of style. Thankfully, there are lots of stylish options that can take you from day to night with ease. Choose something seasonally inspired or something a little more classic. The choice is yours! Not sure where to start? Then get inspired by the many options at romytisa. This online retailer has designs that will suit any and all occasions, preferences, and price points. Here are a few standout options...

disney beauty week: mickey and friends truth be bold artistry palette

What is it about Morphe that is makes it so hard to resist? This brand has been around for quite some time, but wasn't always easily accessible in Canada. In more recent years, certain items have started to be sold in Sephora. Typically, there are oversized eyeshadow palettes with a particular theme. That theme might be related to a colour story, finish, or even brand. (For example, one of my all-time favourites, the Morphe x Coca Cola 1971 Unity Collection.) Since I adore themed items and eyeshadow shades...the brand seems to be a good fit for me. Not too long ago, the Mickey and Friends Truth Be Bold Artistry Palette from Morphe was found at Winners of all places for $25 CDN. Disney? Morphe? And a discounted price? It was too good to resist. Here is everything you need to know about this colourful release...

disney beauty week: mad beauty (sheet eye mask and mirror)

Beauty products often make me smile...especially when there is a little Disney thrown into the mix. As part of Disney Beauty Week here on the creation of beauty is art. it is time to focus on a few items from Mad Beauty. Now, this is not a beauty brand that I am overly familiar with, but based on their website, Mad Beauty focuses on well-known characters and brands. For instance, there are Disney themed products, Looney Tunes items, Star Wars inspired bath essentials, and even Friends inspired things. How fun! I love anything themed, especially when it involves a TV show, movie, or beloved character. Which is why it kind of surprises me that this is my first time trying anything from Mad Beauty. However, I am ready to make up for lost time and Disney Beauty Week seems like the perfect opportunity. Yes, it is time to take a look at the Minnie Mouse themed Cucumber and Green Tea Sheet Eye Mask and the Mulan themed Beautiful Blooms Compact Mirror from Mad Beauty. 

disney beauty week: introduction and future plans.

It is time for another theme week here on the creation of beauty is art. This time? It is all about Disney themed beauty products. This is partly because there are a lot of Disney items in my collection, but also because Disney has been on my mind a lot lately. I am absolutely a Disney person and grew up in a Disney household. The movies, the television shows, and the merchandise have always been part of my life. When I was little, I used to pretend that I was Ariel and sing along to my cassette tapes over and over again. I would hold my plastic mirror and pretend to be Belle. I would dream about visiting Disney World. Since then, Disney has continued to be an important part of my life. From family vacations to a Cinderella themed wedding, movie nights, shopping trips, and well, everything in between...Disney is always thrown into the mix in some way or another. That is why this week will be dedicated to some new and old Disney-related favourites. 

perfume favourites: ariana grande moonlight and sweet like candy.

I miss the days when celebrity perfumes were absolutely everywhere. This is because I love, love, love perfume and have an endless fascination with celebrity culture. My perfume shelf is overloaded with perfumes of all varieties, but the ones that I use most often come from celebrities like Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Paris Hilton, and Taylor Swift. In recent years, Ariana Grande has been added to that list. Her perfume bottles always have really beautiful designs and the fragrances tend to be quite sweet, which is something that I love. Over the last little while, I have been gifted two Ariana Grande body mists: Moonlight and Sweet Like Candy. They certainly make my days a little brighter! Here is a full review of these recent favourites...

anniversary road trip (owen sound and tobermory)

It is no secret that travel is difficult for me these days. (I wrote about in a recent blog post, which you can check out here.) Despite being something that I used to love...travel brings me a lot of anxiety now. Where I live, the cases of COVID-19 are increasing again. Since it seems no one is wearing a mask anymore or taking any safety precautions whatsoever, this is certainly concerning. It also means that a lot of my favourite summer activities, like theme parks, concerts, and the CNE, will have to wait. Crowds are not my thing anymore! Well, my husband and I celebrated seven years of marriage recently and he wanted to do something special. We haven't traveled, just the two of us, since before the pandemic....but my fear of people made it difficult to really plan something. Ultimately, we ended up taking a little road trip to Owen Sound and Tobermory. The reason? All of the activities were outdoors and the crowds were low. Here are some road trip highlights from this getaway. 

lip try on: kylie cosmetics lip kit (koko k matte)

The fact that Kylie Cosmetics is available in Canada is still thrilling to me. I haven't gotten used to it yet! I love that certain items from the brand are more accessible than before. Though there are a lot of Kylie Cosmetics products that are not released here, something is better than nothing. Since I am obsessed with the Kardashian/Jenner family....my husband was lovely enough to treat me to two different lip kits as part of my anniversary gift. (We celebrated seven years of being married a few weeks ago.) One of the Kylie Cosmetics lip kits is a familiar one that was tried on here at the creation of beauty is art. late last year. The Kylie Matte 808 set came with a lip liner and liquid lipstick in a deep dusty rose shade. It is one that I have used often, so it was nice to have a replacement. The shade I had not tried before? Koko K Matte 300. It is time for a review and try on...

current workout favourite: nintendo ring fit adventure

I am not exactly a gamer. Sure, I like to play old-school Nintendo games, arcade style games, and some favourites on the Wii every now and then...but I am rarely seeking out new games to play. To be honest, I don't have a whole lot of free time. When I do have free time, it is often spent writing or reading. Games are not the highest priority on my list. However, fitness is something that I am focused on more than usual these days. In a recent post, I mentioned that I am trying to lose the pandemic pounds that I managed to put on. This something that I have been doing in a few ways: workout DVDs, going for walks, using a food tracking app, and even playing a Nintendo game. The latter was not something that I anticipated. My husband had heard about the Ring Fit Adventure game and decided to purchase it for us. It is a Nintendo Switch game that comes with a Ring Con and Leg Strap. Essentially, you workout with the adventure style game. I wasn't sure that this was something that I would do...but I have been playing it fairly regularly for the last several months. It has definitely made a difference! Want to hear more about this interactive game? Find out whether it has helped me stay motivated? It is time to highlight my current workout favourite: the Nintendo Switch Ring Fit Adventure game. 

testing the elf say goodbye to shine mini kit.

When it comes to skin care, sometimes your need shift from one season to another. I have dry and somewhat sensitive skin in general...but once the summer season arrives, my nose becomes an oil producing factory. I have no idea exactly why this happens, but it does, and it can be difficult to control the shine and minimize the appearance of pores. Thankfully, the Elf Say Goodbye to Shine Mini Kit was on sale at my local drugstore recently. There was one product in particular that caught my eye, so it seemed worthwhile to try out some of these products during the warmer summer months. Ready to take a closer look inside? Find out how these oil control products performed? Here is everything you need to know about this skin care set. 

review: abh norvina mini pro pigment palette vol. 1

Sometimes, life calls for a little colour. The summer season is well underway and I have been reaching for more colourful beauty products as a result. I don't know why, but all of the sunshine makes me a little more open to bright and bold makeup looks. Perhaps that is the reason the Anastasia Beverly Hills Norvina Mini Pro Pigment Palette Vol. 1 has been in heavy rotation lately. I keep coming back to it over and over again! This small but mighty eyeshadow palette has lots of colourful shadows to choose from. There are even some shimmers thrown into the mix. Want to take a peek inside? Check out my latest summer inspired makeup look? Here is everything you need to know about this ABH Norvina Collection mini palette. 

eleven years of the creation of beauty is art.

Certain things make me proud. One example? the creation of beauty is art. I have officially been running this beauty blog for eleven years. Though it seems impossible that so much time has passed since that very first blog post was published, it has been more than a decade. Time really flies! This blog has long been my creative outlet and the place online where I feel safe. It has been so meaningful to write about the things that I love and to connect with others. From the bottom of my heart, I want to say thank you to everyone who has visited this page, read my posts, and left a comment. I hope you know how grateful I am for all of the support. It is never something that goes unappreciated. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

revlon photoready galaxy dream holographic highlighting palette

Last month, Revlon filed for bankruptcy. This beauty brand has been around since 1932 and has become an absolute drugstore staple. Now, filing for bankruptcy doesn't necessarily mean the brand will be gone...but some reshuffling needs to be done. Here is hoping that Revlon will continue to sell those must-have products for many years to come. Why is Revlon on my mind lately? I recently came across their Galaxy Dream Holographic Highlighting Palette at the dollar store. Yes, the dollar store. I never expected to see a highlight palette that is selling for $18 CDN elsewhere at the dollar store for a mere $4. It goes to show that it is always possible to find budget friendly beauty products. Curious about this highlighting palette? Keep reading...

does it work?? ouai detox shampoo

Sometimes, my hair needs a little extra TLC. That has certainly been true lately! I had my hair professionally coloured for the first time not too long ago...and it's definitely been a struggle to keep it looking and feeling its best since then. I've been using colour safe shampoos, lots of conditioners, and masks. More recently? I've been putting the Ouai Detox Shampoo to the test. It is a clarifying shampoo that is designed to clear away dirt, oil, and product buildup. It is suitable for all hair types and is colour safe. Wondering how this performed? Here is everything you need to know about this high-end shampoo.

earrings haul (kate spade, hot topic, and more!)

It is no secret that I love a good pair of earrings. Quite frankly, there is a very good chance that I have too many pairs...but I love being able to choose the perfect set of earrings to compliment an outfit. I especially love fun earrings that are whimsical or express lots of personality. Though I may be shy by nature, my accessories are rarely quiet! I like them to stand out and express different parts of my personality. Recently, I shared some details about my fairly short trip to Niagara-On-The-Lake. While I was in that area, some shopping took place, and I somehow ended up buying a lot of earrings. It wasn't that I meant to come home with lots of earrings, it just seemed to work out that way. That is why today is a good old-fashioned haul. Ready to take a closer look at some earrings from Kate Spade, Glamour, Hot Topic, and Betsey Johnson? Keep reading...

our dreams for this beautiful country will never die.

Happy Canada Day! To all of my Canadian readers...I hope that you have a wonderful day celebrating. To everyone else...I hope that you have a wonderful day in general. This is always an exciting day. In past years, my husband and I would always attend fireworks shows or head down to a beach or waterfront area. When I lived at home with my parents, there was always some sort of barbecue in the backyard. These days? It is hard to know how to celebrate or what that will look like. As of right now, I don't have any plans as such. I think the most important thing is to just take the day off of work, spend time with my loved ones, and remember to be grateful for all of the blessings in life. It is a day to be joyful and to relax. So, however you choose to spend this Canada Day, do everything in your power to make it one to remember. Whether you are heading to the movie theatre, hanging out with friends, watching fireworks, or just relaxing with a little Netflix, here is to a fabulous celebration. 

pride month inspired makeup look + mini product reviews

Pride month is almost over, but that doesn't mean the celebration has to stop. It is so important to continue to support the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether that means wearing colourful makeup and sharing a supportive hashtag, educating yourself and others, or donating to worthwhile causes...there are many different ways to contribute. For those looking for some direct ways to give back, click here for a comprehensive list of charities and organizations within Canada. Some are related to advocacy and education, some directly benefit young people, some support the arts, and some are related to community spaces and organizations. Every little bit helps! Today on the creation of beauty is art. it is all about fun, colourful, and exciting makeup. Quo Beauty recently released a Pride inspired collection, where 10% of all sales were donated to Pflag Canada. Several of those items were added to my makeup collection, including an ultra colourful eyeshadow palette. Ready to have a little fun with makeup? Here are some mini reviews and a Pride inspired makeup look.

mini book haul + update on 20/20 reading goal

Too many books? There is no such thing. I believe that having a full bookshelf or two is good for the soul. Which certainly explains why my shelves are double stacked and overflowing with books, books, and more books. Reading has always been a passion of mine and it is something that I love more than anything else. Even if I am not always able to read as much as I would like! For the last couple of years, I have done the 20/20 reading challenge, which is essentially a goal that I set for myself at the start of each year. The challenge is to read at least 20 fiction books and 20 non-fiction books. This ensures that I am reading a lot of different types of books and also encourages me to make time to do what I love most. We are just over halfway through the year and I'm at 13 fiction books and 11 non-fiction books. Still a ways to go! Life has certainly been busy lately, but I do hope that soon enough there will be a little more downtime to focus on my reading list. As for today, I wanted to share some of the recent books that have been added to my shelf. That's right...this is a mini book haul. 

summer week: bh cosmetics weekend vibes mimosa palette

Clearly, summer themed palettes are right up my alley lately. This only makes sense given the time of year...and also the fact that themed beauty products are my greatest weakness. Earlier in the week, I reviewed a beach themed shadow palette and today, it is all about mimosas. This palette instantly makes me think about sitting on a patio with friends during the summer months and enjoying a drink or two over brunch. Now, that is a scenario I have not experienced in some time, but perhaps one day, it will happen again. Until then, I will be making the most of the Weekend Vibes Mimosa Eyeshadow Palette from BH Cosmetics. It seems like the ideal way to wrap up summer week here on the creation of beauty is art...

summer week: mini getaway to niagara (first trip of summer)

Travel is something I used to love. It was something I tried to do often. Sometimes, that meant a week long trip somewhere far away and other times, it meant a day trip somewhere special. The fun was being able to explore new places, make memories, and do something different. Since the pandemic, my travel habits have obviously shifted considerably. Though a lot of people are feeling free and are acting like the pandemic is over...I still feel a lot of anxiety and apprehension. Going out feels unnatural and I really struggle to feel safe. I know it will take time, but travel is not something that necessarily I love at the moment. Being in unfamiliar places? Scary. Being in crowds of (largely maskless) people? Terrifying. Despite the fact that I am still trying to find my footing, travel seems to be something that I will be doing this summer. Whether I like it or not! My loved ones want to be out in the world and they are pretty insistent that I need to join them. So, I am trying, even though it feels like too much.