Momma Told Me

Besame Cosmetics: Timeless Beauty For The Vintage Woman $191 Giveaway~ 11/19

Momma Told Me: There was once, such a thing as glamor.

While the term has more modern meaning as the title of a Fergie song, or term for vampire entrancement, 'glamor' is precisely the emotion which inspires Momma Told Me, and me in my every day. Its a word that defines an era, an attitude, and a very special type of beauty. I can recall, around 5, Momma went into the Sears portrait studio to take some glamor shots post cancer, remission. The photos were very vintage Hollywood, her lips a voluptuous vixen red, her lashes long and sweeping, the rouge on her cheeks creating dramatic shadows along her jawline. And the way those giant lights hit her, it was like she was the only person in the room that ever mattered, simply stunning in her femininity. I absolutely adored those photos, which decorated my father's 'office'.

Ever since then I've secretly admired old family portraits, photos of my grandparents as young teenagers in love, and the general romance of vintage. By gone eras where the man was expected to open car doors, and the woman would coyly flirt through wayward glances and the touch of their hands. Times when beauty was mysterious and a woman had to rely on elegant ruffles, fabric, and lipstain to tempt...not with an excess of skin and pretense (like today). It's hard to imagine there was ever a time when a coy smile could drive a man wild, when modern models practice the art of 'wearing less', and the internet offers all all they could ever desire. But make no mistake ladies, there is something to be said for understated beauty and vintage glamor. After all, I know many men who crave something different, why not give them that with a beauty tactic that has been neglected for far too long?

Besame Cosmetics was founded in 2004 by Gabriela Hernandez, Argentina migrant and Fine Art professional. Arguably a classic beauty herself, this strong willed, independent woman holds claims an accomplished makeup artist, designer, and cosmetic historian. Her inspiration for Besame was a flawlessly vintage cosmetics collection that combined the elegance of modern romantic architecture with the fierce individual spirit of the women that wore it. As a mother to her own 7 year old daughter, Gabriela has designed the entire line and brand to hold strong moral values and honor the tradition of beauty that every woman possesses. Besame is committed to creating truly unique artful cosmetics, hand crafted to empower women to feel feminine, elegant, and glamorous.Their products enhance natural beauty and encourage individual expression, as well as beautify the world in their own right.

Besame's entire line exudes luxury and romance, with elegant containers, sashes, and colors to create everything from a smoldering eye to a perfect pout. In fact, the collection's design inspiration was drawn from Gabriela's grandmother, herself- and a few vintage lipstick tubes. While the exterior of these cosmetics didn't fail to solicit a gasp (from me), the formulas inside are designed with an equal amount of consideration. These responsible formulas feature quality ingredients along with the expectation of strict European performance standards. They're a combination of today's cutting edge technology and powerful natural ingredients with proven benefits to your skin.Ingredients including; aloe, ginseng, olive oil, green tea, jojoba oil, rose waxes, lavender flower extract, and pampering avocado oil. Naturally, Besame never tests on animals, either.

An especially interesting aspect of Besame Cosmetics, and rare for a luxury brand, is their return policy. Because color is a personal preference, they understand that not every shade will display the same in person as it will in print or online. Besame offers a complete exchange for unopened products, and a 50% return for colors that simply do not match or meet your personal palette needs. I received a selection of Besame Cosmetics for review here on Momma Told Me during Christmas Wishes. All of the products arrived bundled in vintage/romantic packaging with an equal amount of consideration for mood and theme. I first unwrapped Besame's Cashmere Powdered Compact, and experienced a moment that first took my breath away, then put a smile on my face, and inspiration in my heart. Inside the square box was a red velvet pouch (the shade of Royal Red), laced with gold colored tassels. Inside that pouch was the most beautiful golden compact locket I'd ever seen, with red vintage etchings and a push clasp.

To say I was instantly in love would be an understatement, I was head over heels for this brand, which continued to charm through an array of classic cosmetics fit for the finest starlet's vanity. From Besame's new Sweetheart Balms, in dainty glass pots with rosa canina extract and antioxidants, to their easy apply Crimson Cream Rouge, the cosmetics perform to my highest expectations. I must admit, while most women might be drawn to a wide variety of shades, I favor the carefully selected palette Gabriela has chosen. I found that I love the vintage shade of crimson, which offers a natural flush from but a pat of product. It's packaged in a recyclable tin that's almost as light as it is to wear (a true star in any cosmetics bag).

Their Voluptuous Lip Colour Set features Besame's signature lipstick with mineral stain and rose wax conditioner. Also included is a black velvet travel sleeve (for lipstick), automatic lip pencil, ergonomic lipstick brush, and complete instructions for a variety of smoldering looks. Rounding out the collection is the impressively simple, yet stunning finish of Besame's 1930's Mascara. Packaged in a golden tube, with soft and creamy product texture this mascara goes on easy and naturally conditions the lashes to their fullest and longest capability. When combined, Besame makes for an incredibly easy, flawless look that's sure to garner compliments and behind your back 'How's she do it?'s.

What Daughter Says: Bring back true glamor with Besame, this holiday season.

One lucky Momma Told Me follower will win the same collection of Besame Cosmetics as reviewed above! Ohh-la-la!

Momma Told Me: Vacationing with pets is stressful on everyone.

While some may argue they're fashion accessories, the majority of pet owners agree these little balls of fur, our pets, are just as much a part of the family as an uncle or child. So it's only natural we feel anxious at the thought of leaving them behind. Let's face it, like a small child, they cannot comprehend why 'Momma' is leaving, they simply know that she will be gone, for an undetermined amount of time. And, whether you're a busy businesswoman, or a devoted stay-at-home mom, the holidays pose some of the biggest travel complications. Thankfully, most holiday family trips are to a relatives home, where traveling pets are likely to be better received- but some also include resort excursions and hotel stays. Then there are the 'spoiled' pets, like Truffles, who have spent 90% of their life so far at their owner's side. And, believe me, if it wasn't so odd for a cat to travel in public, she'd gladly go out with me on errands too.

Not too many Christmases back I found myself packing for a weekend getaway right before Christmas. A friend ad I were going to head up to Dutch town, Solvang, and spend some time shopping. Her dog, a miniature chihuahua was exceptionally well behaved, and often spent road trips peeking out from her Hobo style purse. Unfortunately, this was a much longer road trip than he was used to, and to the hotels it mattered not how big he was, or how calm he could be; he was a dog. The poor little guy spent most of the driving portion of the trip in a hard bottomed (ventilated) duffel bag, then a prison like crate for the remainder. I remember how guilty his Momma had felt, ever time we had to close the door to his, begging, little face. If only there was a way he could keep his privacy, yet still tag along.

More recently, when Miniature Yorkie, Harley, came into the family I found myself thinking back to poor little Chip (the chihuahua) and his crestfallen mother. Harley's Momma is quite fashion forward, and loves to travel, most recently completing a week long excursion to the Hamptons. 1 year old, 4.5lb Harley had previously faced the fate of being 'babysat' while Mom and Siblings went away. That is, until I discovered SleepyPod, the luxury pet carrier for cats and dogs up to 12.5lbs. With a very bold and modern take on lifestyle pet carriers, the SleepyPod is also most likely the most comfortable bed your pet will ever have. With consideration to on-the-go needs and in-action transport, this safe and secure carrier transforms from private transport to open air bed in less than 20 seconds. It also features a list of impressive variables and features for a tailored experience that conforms to your pet and it's needs.

Most pets associate travel with negative experiences, like vet check ups or kennel stays, so SleepyPod aims to set your pet at ease. The most predominant feature is the shape. This 2 piece outer shell consists of a durable round bottom (the bed) and domed cover with mesh ventilation. For pets who prefer their privacy, the dome can be zipped entirely, as a closure, or allow your pet's head to pop through the center with snaps that double as a handle and central support. Because the top and bottom remove entirely from one another you can acclimate your furry friend to the new digs by integrating the bottom of the Pod as a bed. This helps the animal feel secure and safe, as well as understand that the territory is all it's own. When you're ready for travel, simply zip the dome top on and sling the SleepyPod over your shoulder (via provided strap), or leave the center open to carry as a basket.

Because SleepyPod is lined with an ultra soft plush bedding material, and foam padding, your furry family member will never be subject to traumatic hard surfaces and cold plastic floors (associated with crate carriers). And both the foam lining, and plush bedding slip remove for full cleaning! Additionally, the experience can be enhanced by adding a pet safe, battery free, warming pad during the Winter. Simply unzip the padding and bedding layers, and tuck the thermal heat pad beneath (not included). For a system designed to work with the SleepyPod, specifically, check out the SleepyPod Warmer Kit, and invest in a summertime bedding alternative, Mesh Bedding. SleepyPod is available in 6 fashion friendly colors; Jet Black, Strawberry Red, Sky Blue, Dark Chocolate, Arctic White, and Blossom Pink; with two size options SleepyPod and SleepyPod Mini.

We originally received a SleepyPod Mini in Blossom Pink for 4.5lb Miniature Yorkie, Harley. The SleepyPod Mini is small enough to fit under an airline seat, yet only able to accommodate furry passengers up to 5.5lbs (dog) or 7lbs (cat). Keep in mind that breed and build of dog does trump weight, and when shopping you should consider the circumference as well as depth and diameter. While Harley is 1lb below their suggested cut of, she is a little longer in build and we quickly decided the Mini would be too cramped for it's intended everyday use. I should note here that, regardless, she took to the SleepyPod Mini instantly, jumping in, and sitting patiently. When I contacted SleepyPod about the fit they were quick to suggest the Original SleepyPod, and informed me that the used one would be donated to a local non profit! (Thanks to Harley's wide butt there'll be some really happy little pups!) When the SleepyPod Original arrived we could instantly tell it would be a match made in heaven.

It was as if she'd been waiting for her new bed to arrive, as she jumped in before Momma could get the lid zipped on! The original SleepyPod measures 17" across, a perfect fit for 11" Harley, and with plenty of wiggle room for stashed toys and comforts. We love that the plush bedding is (almost) as soft as Miss Harley, and that she can now travel to work with Momma, where she obediently sits atop her desk. The SleepyPod also buckles conveniently into most standard car seating formats, for additional security in transport! It truly didn't take long for this little girl to claim the SleepyPod as her own (much to the cat's, 5x her size, dismay), and Harley recognizes the SleepyPod as a safe spot at home or on the go. Momma can even convert the top into a handle and transport her without disrupting Harley's beauty rest! From the design, to it's quality materials and construction, the SleepyPod is a well worth investment at home, and in travel; sure to last for years!

What Daughter Says: Put your Princess (or Prince) at ease, with the SleepyPod Luxury Pet Carrier!

One Momma Told Me follower will win a SleepyPod Luxury Pet Carrier!

Momma Told Me: You're never too young to learn charity.

There I was, fists balled tightly, face wrenched and red, tears streaming down as if my very grandmother had just passed. Paci long fallen to the floor, and hedgehog purse clinging to my floral bloomers (complete with diaper butt), I was a wreck. It's amazing I can still remember back to the incident; at an age so young, but a child doesn't forget something that traumatic. I was turning 4, and the lesson of the week was 'sharing'. It was just kissing the (19)90's, and Flipper was my entertainment drug of choice. Show me a dolphin and you'd never get me to shut up. Momma, holding out my favorite plush porpoise by the tail as if it were diseased and dead, once again repeated herself, " You've had Flipper (III) for long enough, you have plenty of other toys to play with. I'm going to put this one in the donate bin." I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks, vision blurring once more. What had I done to deserve this injustice?

Teaching a child, especially an only child, the importance of sharing and charity can be a very difficult task to tackle. Often big issues, such as hunger and global warming can seem scary for both parents and their little ones. As role models, we strive to impress a necessity for strong moral character, while still assuring the children in our lives that they will be protected from these things as well. When Momma first told me there were children who did not have a Barbie Dreamhouse because they're parents had to spend money on food and shelter instead, I was appalled. My knee jerk reaction was to parade around the house gathering my things and throwing them on (what became) the donate 'heap'. I next inquired why my parents didn't go out and buy 'all the little kids' toys. Surely they had money if we could afford a Barbie Dreamhouse? And, when that option was a bust, Christmas was coming up, surely Santa could help? No matter how these sensitive issues are tackled, children are bound to be overwhelmed and confused with the concepts at first. We spend so much time protecting them, how can we mold them into great individuals without touching on the negatives of life?

Enter Kauzbots, the loveable team of 10 collectible plush Robot friends, each with their own unique mission and purpose. Kauzbots believe that, through the power of unity and determination, they can make a tangible impact on some of today's biggest social issues. Issues ranging from Breast Cancer and Autism, to Clean Water and Refugees. If some of those issues sound a little steep to tackle with your tot, Kauzbots are just as important a symbol for adults, and children of all ages. Have a daughter who aspires to be a Pediatrician? How about gifting her a Kourage Kauzbot for Childhood Cancer? Or do you know someone who's family or life has been particularly touched by Autism? Vibrant and funky Karthy donates 10% to Talk About Curing Autism. Or, if you're simply a fan of adorable robots, collect them all and watch Kauzbots donate 10% of the proceeds to each character's inspired charity.

The Kauzbots line is developed rather ingeniously, and always growing. All of the website terms wittily begin with 'K' and each robot bears an equally alphabetically inspired moniker. The plush characters are uniform in style and size (19") tall, and handmade with delicately stitched details. Retailing for $24.99, and suitable for ages 3 and up, Kauzbot plush characters are the perfect gift this holiday season. I received a loveable Kalvin plush Kauzbot for review here on Momma Told Me. 0% of Kalvin's proceeds benefit Dream-Catalyst.org, which champions the realization of dreams for homeless children. Adorable Gray and Blue toned Kalvin includes an entire background story, perfect for education and inspiring youngsters, and is also available in keychain form.

My Kauzbot came with a pinned hanging tag, and sewn in authenticity 'butt' tag. I must say, the size of this plush is fairly substantial, and perfect for cuddling, or dangling from little hands (robots are the new teddy bears!) Kalvin, like all the Kauzbots feature an indifferent 'robot' expression, though the prints, colors, and features vary to define a distinct personality. Personally, I love the retro grey hue of Kalvin, and his somewhat sad, but always loveable face. I do wish my robot friend could sit up better, though, but anticipate the lack of weighting in his bottom is more of a safety decision for younger collectors.

One of the biggest surprises, when you receive a plush Kauzbot is the hand sewn 3D heart charm located in the robot's back pocket. Just over an inch in width, this entirely removable heart is a reminder of the Kauzbot's mission and purpose. Kalvin came with a few threads dangling from some seams, easy enough to trim though I think they add a certain handmade character.

I took Kalvin to a local park, where he caught some admiring stares, and worked as a catalyst to discuss the Kauzbots mission and his cause. We actually got a little dirty, playing in the dirt, climbing trees, and roaming along the playground. Aside from some stray sand, Kalvin surface washed beautifully without any damage. I also noted the embroidered stitches, and sewn in buttons were securely attached for cleaning and small mouths. In our travels, I had a wonderful idea...

What if you could register your Kauzbots, and pin them in their place within this world? A sort of global plush robot tracking and impact mapping? I'd love to see a way to connect more with the other Kauzbot community owners, and engage with those who share a passion for my Kauz. This wonderful, charitable, brand is still starting up, and sure to continue to grow through the thoughtful support of patrons like you and I. Don't just gift a stuffed animal this Christmas, gift with support for your Kauz!

What Daughter Says: Spread the message of love and charity this holiday season with Kauzbots.