Congratulations, Candy! You’ve won!
Candy replied to my e-mail to claim her prize, so this giveaway is officially closed.
Thank you to everyone who participated! Stay tuned in the New Year – I’ve already lined up another great giveaway that nail-polish lovers may especially like. ๐
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We are nearing the end of the year, and I want to thank you all for your incredible support and encouragement. Thereย have been many days when I didn’t feel so great, but your overwhelming positive attitude really picked my spirits up.
I truly believe that when it comes to blogging, you get even more back than what you put in.
Interacting with all of you has reinforced my belief that there are lots of kind, honest, and generous people in the world. And no amount of Grinches will change my mind. (I’m stubborn like that.)
So, to give back to my loyal readers, I decided to hold aย December Giveaway! ๐ And, although my past 2 giveaways were open to Canadians only, this giveaway is open to everyone! I didn’t want to leave anyone out. (So even if you live in the desert, enter! The cuticle cream could come in handy.)
There were so many products that I wanted to include because I thought you’d enjoy them. I had to whittle it down, or I’d have to send a suitcase…haha!
Further along in this post, I’ll go into exactly what the one lucky Swatch And Learn winner will win, how to enter, and all the important details.
I thought long and hard about what to include in this giveaway since it’s a really important one. I knew that there’d be nail polish – duh! And China Glaze Party Hearty was a must because it’s hands down the best Christmas polish ever made. Plus the KleanColor Chunky Holo Purple is a rainbow in a bottle that I know some people have trouble finding, so I had to include that, too.
I also wanted to include eye, cheek, and lip stuff so that you could literally put together a simple little Face of the Day, too. ๐ So I included many different things for you to try out. A few of these are my favourites.
What’s Up for Grabs:
How about a closer look?
These polishes look best when layered over other polishes.
All items were purchased by me, except for the Everyday Minerals blush and Sigma Makeup eye shadow, which were both free-gift-with-orders when I bought tons of stuff from those companies. This giveaway wasn’t sponsored.
(I’ve tried other Everyday Minerals blushes, and they’re some of my favourite kinds to wear because they’re usually really pigmented and they feel so light on your skin.)
Everything is brand new and unused. Anything that came sealed is still sealed.
I’ve already tried a bunch of these products – from my own stash, of course, not the actual ones you’ll be getting. If you’d like to read my reviews and see more photos, please click on the links.
- MAC Eye Shadow Humid
- China Glaze Party Hearty (A favourite)
- Everyday Minerals Blushย Game Show
- eos Lip Balm Honeysuckle Honeydew (A favourite)
- Burt’s Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream (A favourite)
- KleanColor 234 Chunky Holo Purple (A favourite)
- Sigma Makeup Eye Shadow Indian Girl
- NYX HD High Definition Eye Shadow Base (A favourite)
- Bath & Body Works Liplicious Vanilla Bean Noel (last year’s packaging)
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Giveaway Starts: Now
Giveaway Ends: Tuesday December 13 @ noon (Eastern)
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Who Can Enter: This giveaway is open to everyone!
How to Enter: Leave a comment on this post about anything that’s on your mind. It could be a holiday tradition you look forward to, a musical group you’re really digging lately, a movie that you recently saw, a book you love, etc.
Important Rules: Only 1 comment per person, please.ย (I want to give everyone an equal chance of winning.)
How Iโll Choose the Winner & How Youโll Claim Your Prize:
- After the giveaway closes, Iโll use Random.org to randomly choose a winner.
- Iโll send a congratulatory e-mail to the winner sometime on Tuesday December 13. That person will have 72 hours to reply and send me their name and mailing address.
- After receiving your reply, I’ll round up the items and head to the post office to send you your prize! ๐
- Iโll also announce the winner on this page, in the giveaway-tab post, on Twitter, and on Google+. If I fail to hear back from the winner, I’ll be forced to choose a new winner, and I don’t want to do that.
- Please add swatchandlearn@gmail.com to your Safe List in your e-mail inbox so that my message doesn’t wind up in your junk folder by accident.
Some Other Things I Need to Blab About:
- I reply to every single comment left. It may take me a day or so to get back, but I always reply to let you know that youโre heard and appreciated.
- Even though you donโt have to do any of the below, I would greatly appreciate your support:
- Comment on my other posts
- Follow me on Twitter (@SwatchAndLearn), Google Friend Connect, Google+ (Mary), or beautylish (Mary)
- Retweet or blog about this giveaway so that more people can enter
Good luck in the draw, everyone!
Thank you for being the best readers I could ever ask for.
Mary
P.S. This is totally a random comment, but guess what? Two days ago was the first time I’ve ever seen Disney’s Beauty and the Beast! Haha, I think I was the last person. I thought it was really cool how Belle was really into books. You don’t see many Disney female characters who like reading. And big-bicep Gaston made me laugh, especially his little song where he says that all his decor has antlers. ๐
Im thinking im running out of time to purchase tickets for WICKED. .Best play ever. How am going to win tickets to see Robin Thicke B-)
Hey Kim!
Congratulations on being the VERY FIRST person to enter my contest. ๐ Speeeeedy!
I’ve heard some good reviews about Wicked, the Broadway musical. The concept of it being the untold story of the witches from Oz sounds intriguing.
Omg this is such an awesome giveaway! I about died when I saw MAC’s Humid because I have never owned a MAC shadow before and have heard amazing things about Humid. All of the products you included are freaking amazing!
I can’t believe you have never seen Beauty & the Beast till just recently! That is one of the BEST Disney movies ever! In my opinion at least. I have the soundtrack, VHS and DVD. Belle is my favorite Disney Princess other than Ariel. *gushes* I love Disney sooooo much!
Hey Kassie!
Hehe, I knew I had to include MAC Humid because, well, I’m crazy about greens in general. Also, MAC eye shadows are supposed to be really good. Unfortunately, I’ve never tried any, believe it or not! Why not? All MAC eye products contain one ingredient I have a cosmetic allergy to. But it’s all good – I still like seeing how excited everyone else gets over their shadows. And now, I can share in that excitement by giving one away. ๐
I know, right? I’m not sure why it took me this long to see Beauty and the Beast! I’ve seen tons of other Disney films before. The next one on my list is Aladdin. After that, I’ll have seen all the major ones.
I love Disney’s Beauty & the Beast. Belle is really an inspiration for everyone.
GFC: preciouspearl
email: preciouspearlmakeupa t gmail dot com
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preciouspearl recently posted: NYC Classic Coral Creme
Hey preciouspearl!
I agree – she’s a good role model. She saved her father, she didn’t take the easy route and marry Gaston just because he was good-looking, and she was proud about loving books. She was a strong character for most of the movie.
Thank you so much for being very supportive. ๐ I saw that you tweeted about my post, and I’m honoured that you’ve followed me on all those avenues and even added the giveaway to your blog’s sidebar. ๐
Wow, it’s a pretty great giveaway!
I’ve recently fell in love with Coldplay all over again. When Viva La Vida came out, it wasn’t that convincing for me so I stopped listening to them. But my friends from church talk about it so much that I gave it a try again, and Paradise is a total winner!!
Hey Kay!
Oh wow…Coldplay! That takes me back. I used to loop their album over and over again. Aside from their hits, I really liked their song, “Green Eyes”. (Yes, I’m obsessed with green nail polish, green eyes, and everything that’s green…hehe!)
This is a really cool giveaway! I like your holiday color scheme going on! ๐ Lots of festive green!
I hope we get some snow for christmas!
Hey Kayli!
YAY – I’m glad that you noticed! Hehe, and it helps that I’m crazy about the colour green in general. ๐
Well thought out giveaway! You can never have enough of those eos lip balm and those polishes are great picks! I’ve been thinking about how I really need to get started with sprucing the house before the in laws come. Oh, and checking everything on the Christmas shopping list. There’s so much to do.. ! Thanks for playing Santa, Mary! ๐
PS. Beauty and the Beast is my all time fave Disney movie! I could relate so well to Belle and that first song she sang at the opening. Chip was so adorable! And strangely enough I liked Beast better when he was scary than when he turned back into a human..
Carmela recently posted: Nubar Prize is a win to any sparkle fiend
Hey Carmela!
Definitely agree on eos. ๐ I have one by the computer, one by my bed, one in my purse, and another one in the living room. And the Honeysuckle Honeydew flavour is the best…yum yum yum! Plus it reminds me of summer – something that I like to keep thinking about as we’re approaching snowy winter.
Glad you liked my polish picks! I took a bit of a chance with those because I know that not everyone enjoys glitter polishes.
Ho, ho, ho! I love playing Santa…especially if I get free cookies and milk. ๐
YES – I agree with you about the Beast. Actually, I found his voice so sexy when he was the Beast, and he looked interesting. But when he morphed back into a human, he looked too Fabio-esque for me, and sadly, his voice became boring.
This is an awesome giveaway, Mary! Thank you! I’m really excited to see China Glaze Party Hearty as one of the prizes. I really wanted it when it came out last year and never could get my hands on it. Same for KleanColor Chunky Holo Purple. It looks awesome! Everything else is great too.
I’m surprised you’re just seeing Beauty and the Beast for the first time! It’s one of my favorite Disney movies among many. Belle’s one my favorite Disney princesses. She reminds me a lot of myself because of her love for books. I remember being her for Halloween when I was really little. I even still have my super old charm bracelet that has most of the characters on it. I’m definitely going to try to take my four year old niece to see it when it comes back to theaters even though she’s already seen it.
What’s on my mind right now is what color to paint my nails next. I’m thinking of going with one of the new Color Club Beyond the Mistletoe colors. They’re super glittery and festive!
Melissa recently posted: China Glaze Midtown Magic
Hey Melissa!
China Glaze Party Hearty is amazing layered over many polishes. The first time I tried it, I wore it over Nubar Reclaim (a green holo), but I actually prefer it over something traditional like a deep green shimmer.
When I was in church for the Christmas mass last year, an old woman in the pew literally grabbed my hand to admire my nails. It was slightly awkward because that was the last thing I expected to happen in church!
Yeah, it’s really strange how I just saw Beauty and the Beast for the first time recently. Not sure why that was. And I also haven’t seen Aladdin! That’s next on my list. Then I’ll have seen pretty much all the old, classic Disney movies.
What a great giveaway. ๐ The winner is in for some great treats!
Rainbowify Me recently posted: HOT Makeup ~ Petrol Blue
Hey Rainbowify Me!
Glad you think so. ๐ I tried to include things that would appeal to more people instead of those just obsessed with polish like me. ๐
Hi! Nope your not the last one, I never seen Beauty and the Beast. I think the last Disney movie I’ve seen was The Little Mermaid ๐ฎ i kinda grew out of Disney early lol
Hey Jay!
Okay, so we were the last 2 to have not seen Beauty and the Beast. Now you are the last one. ๐
Ariel from The Little Mermaid was one of my favourite females in a Disney movie – I think it was the red hair. ๐
Beauty and the Beast is my favorite Disney movie purely because Belle is a girl that reads for fun, and that is totally me! I’m super excited for the new Pixar movie “Brave” to come out next year, because the main character looks like she can kick some butt!
Thank you so much for the giveaway. Happy Holidays! ๐
Hey Jen!
That’s GREAT that you enjoy reading! I used to be a total bookworm when I was in elementary and high school. Then when I went to university, I didn’t do as much leisure reading as I would’ve liked – mainly just academic reading for school. Then after that when I was working, I just didn’t get back into the groove. I read the occasional book now, but I’m not as good about it as I was before. I want to change that and go back to my reading ways! (Right now I’m reading a book by Susan Jane Gilman – She’s one of my favourite current-day authors.)
Happy holidays to you, too, Jen! ๐
I’ve only gotten back into doing nails this year, and I’m really looking forward to doing some Christmas manis.
As for music, I’ve been watching X Factor US. Loving some of the performers on there!
Thanks for doing the giveaway ๐
Hey EugenieV!
I just recently did a snowflake manicure – took photos of all the steps…but I’m unsure if I’ll post the tutorial. I have a different idea that I want to try, and then I’ll post a tutorial for whichever is more interesting.
X Factor! I’ve only seen a few episodes. I can’t remember that guy’s name (the one who’s 60 or so years old) – wow, he doesn’t look his age at all! I was shocked – that’s really great genetics he’s got.
I keep seeing manis all over the blogopshere for Christmas. They’re all snowflakes and snowmen. All I want to do is paint my nails GOLD!
Sally recently posted: Red nails with white checkers
Hey Sally!
Gold is so decadent and festive, too! ๐ But I’ve been itching to try snowmen. I’m wearing a snowflake manicure right now. ๐
Josh Groban’s “O Holy Night” is my favorite Christmas song. I remember hearing it on the radio when my grandpa was in hospice, and we weren’t sure if he was going to make it or not. That was the same day he gave me the last piece of advice he ever was able to give me – he told me to always look after myself. And I have. ๐ He was an amazing man, and even though hospice is a desperately sad place, that song was soothing. I closed my eyes and just fell into the beauty of it while it played. I have a very tender connection with that song every time I hear it now.
Hey Christine!
Your comment made me cry!
It’s amazing how songs can really capture moments so well and help you relive emotions like they’re happening in the present day. Your grandfather sounds like he really was an amazing man who was very wise, loving, and supportive. It touches me to know that you had a strong connection with him.
Whenever I hear certain songs that my dad loved, it makes me tear up. (My father unexpectedly passed away shortly after my birthday just in 2010.) It was hard losing him like that, especially because when you think about losing a parent, you tend to think that it’ll happen when you’re 40 years old or older. But I lost my father already, and I’m in my 20s. It’s really hard, especially during the holiday season when there’s so much emphasis on family and togetherness. But he’s still strongly in my heart. There’s no doubt about that.
Christine, I’ll keep you, your grandpa, and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Hope you have a bright Christmas!
This is such a generous giveaway!!!! I would kill for the China Glaze Party Hardy and the Burts Bees Cuticle Cream, actually all of them! lol.
I cant believe you just saw Beauty and the Beast, I haven’t seen it in years but its one of my fav Disney Movies.
I love all kind of music EXCEPT…Country music! lol. Idk, I just cant get into it.
Christmas is actually my favorite holiday, I’ve always loved it.
I really love your blog, you should be so proud!!!! :))
Thanks again ๐
Kelly
xoxo
Hey Kelly!
I’ve been wanting to see Beauty and Beast for a while, and then as I was just channel surfing, they were playing it on TV and I had caught it right at the beginning so I wouldn’t miss a thing. ๐ It was meant to be. Next up on my To-Watch-List-So-I’ll-No-Longer-Be-the-Last-Person-Who-Hasn’t-Seen-It list is Aladdin. (Phew, that was really long with all those hyphens!)
Thank you so much! I’m proud that I have the best blog readers – I’m incredibly thankful!
I’ve just saw the movie One Day and I loved it. One of the saddest movies I’ve seen but it’s really great.
Thanks for the giveaway! Amazing prizes ๐
Hey Magda!
I really enjoy sad movies. Maybe it’s because it’s really easy to make me laugh at a funny movie, but it’s harder to get me to cry. So when I do cry at a sad movie, it really moves me and makes the film more memorable.
One thing about me is that I only really started getting interested in nail polish (like SUPER interested) in August! And it is so much fun! I had no idea how much fun blogging about it would be either. ^-^
I love Beauty and the Beast! I grew up with Disney (I saw the Little Mermaid in theaters and cried because Ursula scared me) and it is some of my favorite music to sing!
This giveaway looks amazing! Thank you so much for giving us this opportunity to win it. ^-^
Ashesela recently posted: Holly Nails
Hey Ashesela!
Aww…hehe, how cute were you crying because of Ursula? ๐ That’s really sweet. Yes, The Little Mermaid certainly had so many songs that are fun to sing along with. Shhh…even to this day, I sometimes sing “Part of Your World” in the shower…off-key, of course.
I’m currently dreaming about going to Disney World. I even considered selling my stash to pay for tickets (!!!!!!!!!!!!) but decided not to. ..
Maria recently posted: Day 2: Writing my Christmas Cards
Hey Maria!
*Gasp* Selling your stash to pay for the tickets! THE HORROR! Hahaha…but you knew that I’d say something like that, right? ๐
Having a child in the house means I get to see many kids’ movies (with or without intention, lol). The good thing is many of them are worth seeing ๐
Hey Halifax!
Haha, your comment made me laugh! It’s so true!
Hi Mary! I’d love to enter into your giveaway – all the pics look great!\
I’ve commented on your blog before, and I am so impressed by how gracious you are, replying to every single comment we leave you. That is purely amazing, and I am so touched by how dedicated you are to your blog and to your readers!
I loved Beauty and the Beast growing up! Apparently they’ll be releasing it in 3D come January, along with a new short called Tangled Ever After. If anyone hasn’t already seen Tangled yet (I know it came out last year but I JUST watched it last week), I HIGHLY recommend it!!!
Best wishes for the holiday season!
Andrea ๐
Hey Andrea!
I appreciate that you’ve taken the time to comment on here other times. ๐ It’s great to interact with my readers and find out what they’re thinking – even if they disagree with me. It’s just fun to bounce ideas off each other and to learn from one another.
Oh, haha, I hardly think I’m gracious! But thank you for saying that! *Puffs out chest and walks taller* I just feel like if someone has taken the effort to leave me a comment on here, I can definitely make the time to reply. Also, I know what it feels like when you leave a reply on a blog, but the blogger doesn’t reply. Sometimes I wonder if they saw the comment, even. Every blogger is different, but I prefer to reply to comments to provide reinforcement to the reader that their voice was heard and that it’s important.
I didn’t even know that the movie was coming out in 3D! Where have I’ve been? Geez…haha, I REALLY sound like I’ve been stuck under a rock talking about JUST seeing the movie when there’s a 3D version coming out. (I haven’t seen Tangled, but I know I eventually will!)
Merry Christmas to you, too! ๐
Well, first I have to thank you for the big laugh, when I read your comment about the cuticle cream being useful in the desert. That was sure hilarious!
What am I thinking now? That’s a good question! Tomorrow it’s my bday and I am looking for a restaurant which is open mid-week to celebrate!
I think I saw Belle and the Beast ages ago. I am not too much into cartoons. Yes, I said it. My all time favourite, and also the one I still keep watching over and over again is Disney’s Robin Hood. I just love it!
Thank you so much for the chance to win for us non-Canadians! That ChG has been in my wishlist forever!
Simona recently posted: BeYu 209 (warning: pics heavy)
Hey Simona!
You’re very welcome! I love to make jokes, and when people actually find them funny, I love that even more! ๐
HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! ๐ Hope you have a wonderful time and enjoy some delicious food at whichever restaurant you decide to go to.
You have great taste – Disney’s Robin Hood was amazing! He’s such an attractive character in all ways.
My cat has taken to sleeping under the Christmas tree – it’s adorable! I don’t know what he’ll do once presents are underneath!
Hey Chanelle!
Back when I was living at home, we had a cat called Tiger. He’d always sit under the Christmas tree like he was the present. ๐ So adorable – hope you took lots of photos! (Hehe, even when there were presents under the tree, Tiger just sat beside them with those eyes saying, “Don’t you think I’m the best present?” Why, yes, of course!)
First of all, it’s really nice that this giveaway is open to all, some of these products are unavailable here (in Europe and the shipping costs are very expensive).
I would also like to thank you for the good qualities of your blog and I appreciate that you answer to the comments that are left here.
I might sound like the odd one but I don’t like Disney movies, they’re outdated, I prefer the Pixar movies they’re like a fresh breath of air. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw ‘Tangled’ which I loved very much. If I had to choose one movie, it would be ‘Up’ it’s a wonderful and beautiful movie with all the qualities that make a great film. Now that it will soon be Christmas, I love to watch ‘The Nightmare before Christmas’ such a fun way to be in a great mood.
Have a nice day.
Hey Cecile!
No problem. That was one of the main reasons why I wanted to open this up to everyone. As a Canadian, I know how frustrating it is to not be able to find certain products…or even for a reasonable price. And one of my friends is in Singapore, and she’s always telling me how everything it waaaay more expensive if she can even find it! So…I knew that I wanted everyone to have a chance to win these awesome products. ๐
I love reading comments, but I also love replying to them. Sometimes it takes me a little while to get back, but it’s important to me that I do so that everyone feels like their voice is important and heard.
My favourite Pixar movie is probably Wall-E!
Enjoy the rest of your day, too. ๐
This is such a great giveaway, thank you for all the effort you put in it ๐ I can’t wait for christmas, to spend some time with my family and just cuddle on the couch with some tea and chat… best time of the year ๐
Hey Nida!
My readers are worth all the effort! ๐
What a great giveaway! Everything looks amazing. I’m glad the giveaway is open internationally, there are some brands I’ve never seen around here.
I’m currently re-reading The Hobbit (for the umpteenth time). It’s one of my favorite books since I was a child, and the news about the upcoming movie made me want to revisit it. A truly wonderful book.
Thanks again for doing this giveaway!
Hey Susana!
I had to open it up to everyone, not just Canadians. ๐ There are so many great products that I wanted to share!
Mary, this is the most amazing, thoughtful, generous giveaway! Thank you so, so much.
The one thing I’ve been meaning to say is that as much as I love reading international blogs, particularly about makeup, it’s sometimes a bittersweet experience finding out about brands like Kleancolor and Color Club as I can’t get hold of them easily, and I’d so love to. Also, Modcloth. Modcloth is me online fashion form! So giveaways like yours are just wonderful when they’re open to international followers.
I’m going to repay the favour by doing my first giveaway with products that are only available in Italy and ONE shop in the UK.
But something that’s interesting me right now? v excited about ordering my Kindle! I’ve been saving up for a year from money I earn on the side proofreading seriously boring management theory theses, and I’ve finally got enough! (and then some, to keep me in e-books for a little while). I think I’ll love it all the more for having saved so hard for it. Sometimes it’s really worth waiting. And I’m the most immediate-consumption person ever! x
Nazneen recently posted: NOTD: Engagement ring manicure 1, Kiko Hologram 354
Hey Nazneen!
I know how you feel. Finding new KleanColor polishes here in Canada, even, is very tough – that’s why I resorted to ordering online, but I only got it because my American friend was able to bring the haul over during a visit. And Color Club is also hard to find here, although sometimes they pop up at Winners stores. It makes me feel really good to be able to share this with everyone from around the world – well, at least whoever the lucky winner is! ๐
And that’s very kind of you to hold your first giveaway! Some product that are only available in Italy? I’m sure lots of people would be REALLLY interested!
What a great giveaway! I am a polish addict for sure so the sparkly polishes are calling out to me. I love reading your posts too. Randomness is awesome!
Hey Teresa!
Oh good! Hehe, I was debating including a shimmer or a creme polish, but then I thought that it’s the holidays – even those who aren’t glitter fans usually wear some during this time. ๐
Just received my order of 5 LA Girl Lippies today. It’s my first time trying them. Swatched them & fell in love. They go on very smoothly & they’re very pigmented. Can’t believe I got them for only $1.99 each. ๐
Hey Nicole!
I’ve never tried any of those before, so it’s good to know that they’re working well for you AND that you scored them at such an amazing price!
(I saw your second comment. Thanks for following me on Google Friend Connect!)
———- I’m also a current GFC Follower under: SAUCY | f. | BABY
I TOTALLY love this blog of yours and what a cool giveaway! Thanks for doing it … I gotta say I live on the border of a desert and yup the lip balm or the birds bee cream would be a great thing to have wish they would sell them here so I could try them:)
oh and gosh those nail polishes are stunning!
Keep up your great work and I will keep enjoying your blog
Happy Holiday:)
Hey Debbie!
Thank you! I love working on Swatch And Learn – it’s been so rewarding, too. ๐
Merry Christmas!
Hi!
I follow your blog from Hungary and I absolutely love it! Thank you for the giveaway. I hope you will visit Hungary one time:) Check this out if you are interested in our christmas traditions:) http://www.santas.net/hungarianchristmas.htm
Hey Amadeus!
Visit Hungary? Maybe! I’ve never been there before. ๐
Hello Mary,
thank you so much for this awesome giveaway!! I’m so excited to have a chance to win this time!! Hmm, whats on my mind atm? Well, I am thinking about doing my own blog soon. And you know what? It’s actually YOUR POST in the smorgasbrod series which inspired me to even think about it!!
For Christmas traditions, today is St. Nicolaus Day in Germany. Every kid puts out their decorated shoes and hopes that Nicolaus will come and fill goodies in there ๐
Some parents even dress a workmate up, so their kids can have the real Nicolaus…
Hey Sophie!
You know how much what you said thrilled me? A LOT! I’m SO GLAD that you loved Smorgasbord Sundays. It was a little, fun series that I decided to add just so there’s more variety on Swatch And Learn. ๐ As much as I love beauty products, I love a lot of things outside that realm, too.
If you end up starting your own blog, please drop me a line and share the link. I’d love to check it out.
I am really looking forward to the holidays this year! My friends and I are going to hold a mini Secret Santa, go sledding in the park and then going to one of their houses for hot chocolate. We might also build a snowman and a snow fort for snowball fights! This is the first time we’re going to this together so I’m really excited!
Sorry I can’t add you on GFC, FB or Twitter because I don’t have any of those accounts and my parents won’t let me ๐
Thank you for the giveaway and happy holidays! ๐
Hey maddy!
Secret Santas are so much fun – I love that element of surprise. Sometimes it’s bad (haha), sometimes it’s good, and other times a person gets a gag gift that cracks me up! ๐
That’s okay that you don’t have those social-media accounts. Maddy, I’ve noticed that you comment pretty regularly on my blog. ๐ Thank you so much!
Merry Christmas to you, and have a fun time with your friends!
Hi Mary! What a wonderful giveaway ๐ I’ll give it a try allthough I live far away in Denmark, because there are so many things in this giveaway I would really love to have and try. I’ve been reading your blog for a while and only yesterday I “signed up” on it with Google Friend Connect. I always check your blog because I’m a “nailpolishaholic”, too. I thought I owned lots of nailpolishes until I read about your collection.. OMG! ๐ Anyway, I find your designs very beautiful, funny and inspiring. Btw – it was very funny reading your comment on Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. When my daughter was a child (she’s 20 today, and I’m 45) she saw it over and over and over again. So I’m about to claim that I know all the lines by heart, haha!
(please forgive me, if my english is a bit rusty!)
Hey Conni!
It’s definitely worth a shot. You never know – you may be the lucky winner! ๐ We’ll see what Random.org says.
Thank you for telling me that you enjoy my blog. That helps motivate me!
Haha, yeah, I have a bit of a nail polish ‘problem’. ๐
Your English is great! Doesn’t seem rusty to me at all.
Hi Mary! What a nice giveaway you’ve put together! Kudos to you on your generosity and holiday spirit. : )
Hmm. I’m trying to think of something happy or funny or silly to remark about. I’ve actually been kind of having a rough couple of months, but your blog and a few others that I follow have been great distractions and sources of inspiration. Keep up the good work in 2012!
Aren recently posted: Because I’m A Bitchin’ Rockstar From Mars.
Hey Aren!
I’m sorry that you’ve been going through a rough patch. Hope things look up for you in the New Year! *Sends good vibes your way*
Hi Mary – Thanks for offering this giveaway! I’m trying to get all my holiday shopping done this week ๐ I’m a bit nail polish obsessed (I’m sure you can relate) and only one person I work with knows about my obsession. Every Monday she checks my hands for the color of the week ๐ Hope you have a wonderful holiday and happy new year!
Hey Amy!
Good idea to get your holiday shopping done early – it’s the best way to beat the mad crowds…and the elbows in your face! (Whenever I shop when it’s super crowded, I get so grouchy. Trust me – you wouldn’t want to be around me because I have a storm cloud above my head with lightning flashing…haha!)
Same to you! And hope 2012 brings great things for you! ๐
What an awesome giveaway and what a lovely way to end the year. All the items look fabulous but of course the nail polishes caught my eye! It’s great to have Canadian blog site because I know I’ll be able to get the items posted! I always look forward to your postings.
This time of year I always look forward to watching the original Grinch that Stole Christmas with my grade two students. I have been off work since mid October having had uterine cancer surgery, so I’ve missed all of the fun of Halloween and the joys of Christmas with my students. As far as the cancer goes, everything looks great according to my surgeon as it was caught early. My advice: know your body; be pro-active in your own health and well being and get regular pap tests/breast exams.
Have an awesome Christmas and I look forward to reading more Swatch and Learn posts in 2012!
Hey Aylene!
Yes, I guess I can be a diva like that. I wanted to end the year with a bang! ๐
Oh, I hope that you’ll continue to have a speedy recovery from your uterine cancer surgery! *Sends positive vibes to you* I’m glad that you’re doing well and that your surgeon was able to catch it early! GOOD NEWS!
Hope you have a wonderful Christmas, too, and a fun New Year!
This is an awesome giveaway!! I’m drooling over the nail polishes!
Hey Melissa!
Glad you like it! ๐
I was looking on google for O.P.I rainbow connection and here I am ๐
when I saw this … no comment. I’m just very happy to see that it’s open international.
love Disney movie especially The beauty and the beast. ;)) even cry at the end…:”>
Hey Jalbu!
I’m glad that you found me, and I hope that my post on OPI Rainbow Connection helped. ๐
In my country,we celebrate the Christmas on 7th of January ๐
I follow you via GFC: Costin Daniela and via twitter: @DanyelaCostin
My email is: danyela_costin@yahoo.com
Mister Random please Pick me ๐
Hey Costin Daniela!
Oh, very interesting how it’s celebrated there in January!
Thank you for your support! ๐
My hubby played the Beast in a small local production of Beauty and the Beast, I’ve seen that but not the original. ๐
Angelic Mariposa ฦธฬตฬกำฬตฬจฬฦท recently posted: New cut and FOTD
Hey Angelica Mariposa!
Wow, so he can sing – impressive! ๐
Belle from Beauty & the Beast was always my favorite Disney character growing up (and still is!) because we both shared a love of books.
Hey Kristin!
Good for you! I hope that trait continues to stick with you for a long time. ๐ Thirsting for knowledge and educating yourself with books is really important, I think.
I want the nail polishes! =) T-hee!
FanNee recently posted: #101 Third Forest Giveaway: Lens Village
Hey FanNee!
Well, if you win this giveaway, you’ll get those…and everything else, too! ๐ YAY!
OMG! I cant believe you had never seen Beaty and the Beast! It’s my favorite (I think mostly because Belle was smart and loved to read)!
I wanted to thank you. You have inspired me to get more creative with my nails and not just paint a boring color. I have started doing designs and even have candy cane toes for Christmas! You’re tutorials are very helpful in teaching techniques and I always look forward to reading your posts. It’s amazing that you are so giving with things you purchased yourself. Most bloggers would never do a give-away without a sponsor. Thank you and Merry Christmas! ๐
Hey Kelly!
High five for smart women! ๐
Thank you for leaving this comment. It makes me feel so good knowing that you’ve pushed yourself to try new designs. ๐ I believe that everyone is creative and has their own way of expressing it, which is interesting. Nail art is an avenue that I really enjoy expressing myself through.
Merry Christmas to you, too! ๐
Wow, what a nice giveaway!! You’ve thought of everything a person needs.
We just got our Christmas tree on Sunday and put it up last night. Didn’t get too far decorating it. We had just put the lights on it when a neighbor came over and by the time she left it was pretty late. I’ll do the rest today.
Hey Jennifer!
Hehe, well, I didn’t think of EVERYTHING. If I did, I would’ve added about 3578395798378379573 more nail polishes. ๐ And, yes, everyone needs that many bottles. ๐
YAY for your Christmas tree! You know, I’ve never had a real one before…just the artificial variety.
First snow this morning in Southeast Michigan! So pretty! I wish it were like this all Winter, fluffy and untouched and most importantly, off the streets. hahah
Got to see the Muppets over Thanksgiving weekend. Oh my gosh, I cried, I laughed, I cried while laughing. If you were a fan of the Muppets as a kid — go see it!! Support the Muppets so they can come back in all their glory! ๐
Hey Vicki!
The first snowfall is always magical. ๐ I love looking at snow…just don’t like shovelling it. ๐
I haven’t seen The Muppets yet, but I’m so happy to hear that you thoroughly enjoyed the movie!
Hi. Merry Christmas to everyone!
The MAC eyeshadow is beautiful!
Hey Ashley!
Merry Christmas to you, too! ๐ Hope the season’s bright for you and those you care about.
Listening to Glee’s ‘Last Christmas’ right now, its probably my favourite cover of the song! Can’t wait for the release of the glee Christmas album pt 2! looking for a great, sparkly magenta polish for the holidays, i think metallic magentas and teals are better than the usual reds for the holidays. currently wearing orly’s galaxy girl on my nails, need to get space cadet! wishing that i was in a wintry place like america where i can feel the holiday spirit instead of the tropical climate that i have here!
Hey finepix!
You know, I’ve never seen more than…hmm…2 episodes of Glee. One of my co-workers is really into it, and he kept telling me to watch it, so I finally did. Hehe!
Oh yes – you need Space Cadet! That’s one of my favourite Orly polishes. ๐
Hahaha well you should go hear the cover of ‘We Are Young!’ so addicted to it!
Are you having a white Christmas over there in canada? Really envious, I cant even get remotely cold weather here.
Oh and thank you so much for including the winter bean Noel gloss! It’s my favorite b&bw Christmas product, since it’s the only one I’ve tried hahah. But it brings back fantastic memories of a winter holiday in Cali back in 2009. Really hope to go back there again next year. ๐
Oh, and I’m going to buy space cadet AFTER I move house! I have so many nail polish bottles that I have to move over, and I have no idea how I’m going to transport it over safely, sigh. Doesnt help that I got 2 inm holo topcoats, china glaze’s shower together and 2 face shop polishes yesterday….the buying needs to stop!
Haha, yes, slowing down on purchases sounds like a good idea for you. ๐ Hope your move goes smoothly!
A lot of Christmases, we tend to get at least some snow accumulating on the ground, but there were a few green Christmases.
Currently, there’s so snow on the ground – we haven’t gotten any major snowfall yet. It’s only a matter of time, though, in Canada during this time of year. Right now, I’m enjoying the no-snow. ๐
No problem – I wanted to include something Vanilla-Bean-Noel… ๐ The only thing is that the packaging is from 2010, not this year. But it’s sealed up, so I think people will be okay with it. (I hope so.)
Contemplating if I should get Russian Navy! Well, I would definitely love some snow hahah. Have you tried the CO Bigelow Cinnamint/Vanillamint lipglosses? They are the best, and moisturise even better than most lipbalms!
No, I haven’t tried those lip glosses before, but I did try Jack Black lip balms, and they are INCREDIBLE! They moisturize better than anything I’ve tried and they have SPF 25.
My dad calls me every year to tell me when Charlie browns Christmas is on so we can watch it together even though we dont live in the same house. ๐ it was on last night. ๐
Hey carmen!
Your dad sounds so sweet! I love how you and him share that connection, especially around the holidays.
Those are my favorites too!!
Hey nicole!
YAY! ๐
I am celebrating my 25th birthday this month, just a few days away in fact – Dec. 17, and all I can think of is how old I’m getting which I know is totally ridiculous but I can’t help it. Anyways great giveaway and Merry Christmas.
Dania recently posted: Amazing giveaway from Prim and Polished!
Hey Dania!
HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY! ๐ Hope you have a wonderful time no matter how you celebrate it!
Hehe, I know what you mean. I’m also in my 20s, and sometimes when my birthday rolls around, I think about how I’m getting old. But, y’know what? That’s a good thing – we gain more experiences over time. I wouldn’t trade that for anything in the world.
Merry Christmas! ๐
Thank you for this awesome giveaway! There are so many people participating already!
Haha, I can’t believe two days ago was the first you watched Beauty and the Beast! When I was young, my parents made me watch every single Disney movie as soon as they came out on tape! ๐
Jennifer recently posted: A good thing a day challenge – Day Five
Hey Jennifer!
Yeah, I know! I was really surprised to see how many people entered already.
Haha, I was a late Beauty and the Beast bloomer! ๐
I’m writing a big test today, and I’m looking at your blog to try and distract myself from being nervous.
In relation to nothing, have you ever tried Soulstice Spa nail polish? I’m thinking about buying some but I can’t find too many reviews on it.
Hey Valerie!
Good luck on your test. As long as you’ve studied, you’ll give it your best shot. Hope you ace it! ๐
No, I’ve never tried any Soulstice Spa nail polish before, but I want to. ๐ One of my friends, Carmela, actually reviewed one. You can check out the post here: http://polishedindulgence.blogspot.com/2011/11/soulstice-spa-manchester-wants-you-to.html
Thanks so much for the giveaway!
I’m getting really really excited about Christmas, but I’m kind of trying to stop myself from getting carried away because I have an essay due tomorrow, and a bunch of exams after thatโฆ Still, I kind of can’t help it! Decorating our Christmas tree with my roommates, Christmas lights everywhere, hot chocolate and festive manis are putting me into the holiday spirit no matter how hard I try to fight it. (Although I’m not really trying that hard.)
Hey triceratops!
All the best on that essay and your exams! ๐ Rock them! (When I was in university, my favourite assignments were writing essays.)
You HAVE to see the Christmas Beauty & the Beast show….so cute. Also, yayyyy for a giveaway without that rafflecopter thingy. Lol Merry Christmas!
Hey Ter G!
Merry Christmas to you, too! ๐
I’m so excited to win this…hopefully I do! I’m just thinking about how much fun stuff I have to do between now and Christmas…not letting it overwhelm me, but just looking forward to it all! ๐ Have a merry Christmas!
Hey Linzi!
Just take small steps at a time, and you’ll finish everything on your to-do list. Hehe, but yeah, if you think about everything, it’s too overwhelming!
Merry Christmas! ๐
What a great giveaway! Thank you so much for the opportunity!
Hey Annie!
You’re very welcome. ๐
I’m looking forward to Christmas break so I can take a deep breath and pause for a couple weeks! I’m in my first semester of grad school I am very, very, busy and stressed out right now.
Hey Ashley!
I never went to grad school, so I can only imagine how much work is involved and how stressed out you feel. Here’s hoping that you get everything you need to done on time and well! ๐ You deserve a break for Christmas for sure!
Thanks!
My husband and I are decided we’re getting a real Christmas tree when my exams are over. We’ve been trying to get Christmas presents together for our family while I study and he works. It’s certainly a busy time!
Hey Ashley!
How lovely! I’ve never had a real Christmas tree, but always wish that I could have one. It’s so beautiful. Yes, the needles create a bit of a mess, but it’s worth it. ๐
I love to read your blog! Still want to try nail art…maybe over the holidays! ๐
Hey Kim!
The holidays are the perfect time to try out nail art. Hope you come up with a design you love! ๐
Hiii. I love your blog. It helps fuel my nail polish addiction. Also, Cinderella is clearly the best Disney movie ever.
Hey megan!
Haha, I feel a bit guilty now. (Just a BIT…hehe!)
What a great giveaway!! Both of those polishes look so fun and would be great to wear over the holidays!!!
Hey Clare!
Glad you like the polish choices. ๐ It was hard whittling it down to just 2 bottles.
Wow Beauty and the Beast is one of my favorite Disney movies I am surprised you just saw it!! I owuld have to say my all time favorite disney movie is a tie between Cinderella and Aladian!
Amber recently posted: FOTD: Hijacking Crystals
Hey Amber!
Haha, I know! What was taking me so long? I have no idea.
This is going to shock you, too. I haven’t seen Aladdin yet! It’s next on my To-Watch List!
Love the blog! Just found you a few weeks ago and am a big fan of your format. Highly informative! Thanks for doing a giveaway! As for great movies…just saw the new Muppet movie and loved it. Took me back to my childhood!
Hey April!
I’m so pleased that you find Swatch And Learn so useful! ๐ It makes all my hard work worthwhile, so thank you for letting me know.
I remember reading a few post back about your love for Gilmore Girls and realized how much I miss watching that show! Tempted to go hunt me down a box set, it was the best!
Hey Michelle!
If you look for the set now, you should be able to find it heavily discounted – such a great investment for a quality show!
Thanks for posting things, Mary!
I may not always comment, but I do always read.
Beauty and the Beast, huh? I should send you to hang out with one of my daughters who has every Disney movie ever made and will teach you all the songs and the dialogue, too!
Lovely giveaway, thanks so much for having it!
Hey Debi!
I appreciate that you regularly read my posts. ๐
I’ve seen that EOS lip balm everywhere, but I have yet to try it. It must be pretty good though because a lot of bloggers have been raving about it!
Hey Ashley!
It’s definitely really good if you want light moisturization. It’s not heavy-duty like Jack Black’s lip balms (which are my holy grails), but what eos has going for them is that their products are 100% natural and, of course, the unique packaging. I’ve previously reviewed a few of their flavours. Honeysuckle Honeydew was my favourite – really fresh and yummy-smelling!
I LOVE Beauty and the Beast!! Such an awesome story :). My dad sings that Gaston song when he wants to embarrass me, haha.
It’s around finals time (urghhhh) and I just wanted to say your blog is one of my study breaks! I look forward to seeing your new posts every day :D.
Hey Jessica!
Hahaha, your dad sounds so funny! It’s cool that he knows the lyrics that well. You should totally pick up your camcorder to film it – so funny!
All the best on your finals! ๐ I know that you’re stressed out during this time, but keep studying and do your best! ๐
Mary! This giveaway is awesome… All the prizes are incredible, but the bottles of nail polish are calling at me the loudest ๐
What is on my mind … there is a lot going on there… for one, As a parent “Santa” is one of the least rewarding ‘inventions’ ever! My kids are going bananas and my wallet is shrinking ๐
I wish skin and hair never fell off/shed… then I wouldn’t have to dust as often…
And why do potato chips and chocolate have to be so bad for you!? I’d totally eat them day and and night if they weren’t.
But on a serious note, you truly a kindred spirit and one day, when you are a famous writer (because you will be one) I will say, yup that Lovely Lady on the Top Seller’s list is my Kindred Spirit ๐ xxxx
GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF THOSE WHO ENTERED THIS GIVEAWAY ๐
Marta recently posted: Keen on thisโฆ Peachy Keen that is ๐
Hey Marta!
Hehe, those polishes definitely did scream the loudest, although other colours were also screaming at me, too. I was so glad to pick those 2 to stop the shrieking. I may have lost hearing in one ear. ๐ Haha!
Oh boy – yes, as a parent, you have a whole lot of stress filling in for The Big Man in Red. ๐
Hahah, that comment about skin and hair is a good point. I never thought about it like that, but you’re right!
Hmm…I wonder what potato chips covered in chocolate would taste like…(I’m sure someone’s manufactured this before, but I’ve never tried it.)
Aww, thank you, Marta! I appreciate your constant encouragement – really lifts up my spirits, and I also consider you to be a true kindred spirit!
OMG!!!
I always felt bad that only Canadians can participate in the giveaway! Now I can too! I am Brazilian and I read the blog every day.
A kiss and good luck to all!
Hey Camila!
Thank you for stopping by daily! ๐ I appreciate the support.
Haha.. Guess what, I’ve never seen Beauty and the Beast, so you’re actually not the last person!
I must say I really LOVE this giveaway! The prize is more than I could imagine, and I would be the happiest girl to win all of this!
Hey Anne Lise L.H.!
Haha, so you (and one other reader who left a comment on here) are the last two now! ๐
Best of luck in the draw!
OMG I love everything in this giveaway!! This is such a nice thing to do for your readers! I hope you know that your hard work is appreciated by us fellow beauty junkies. =D
What’s on my mind right now is Christmas presents. I have not wrapped a single gift and I’m probably the slowest gift wrapper in the world! I LOVE to wrap gifts but I like to take my time in order to make sure the gift looks nice. Nothing makes me happier than giving someone a gift they love that looks pretty as well!
P.S. Beauty and the Beast is such a great movie! I can remember as a child wanting a library in my house like the one in the movie. I also had a Beauty and the Beast paper doll set that I would give anything to have again.
Hey Raychul!
Glad that you do – it was a bit challenging for me to whittle down the list of prizes. ๐
Thank you for saying that – I very much appreciate my wonderful readers. You all are the best!
Oh yes, the Beast’s library was insane – with books right up to the ceiling! I wonder what kind of books he enjoyed – “Hot Hair Makeovers to Bring Out Your Beauty”? ๐
This is only my second comment but I know I will be a loyal reader.
My daughter was obsessed with all things Little Mermaid (and still kinda is even though she’s 13 and would never admit it) so it was all Ariel at our house.
I’ve never tried Sigma makeup or Klean Color so it would be cool to win!Thanks Mary!
Hey Barbara!
I appreciate my long-time AND new readers. ๐ Support in any form means so much to me.
Hi – my post is about thanking you! I look forward to tour blog every day, it’s the only email I don’t ignore lol. Your reviews are a huge help!! I’ve made several purchases based on your blogs and have been super happy with them. I didn’t even know holo polish existed until I started reading your blogs. I was never really a polish girl until I found your blog. You got me hooked!!
Thanks ๐
Hey Terra!
*Blush* Oh gosh! I’m so glad that you’ve found my blog so helpful. I really enjoy assisting people in making smart shopping decisions. And when I come across a lemon, I bust it on here…haha, but thankfully I’ve come across few absolutely horrendous products.
Hehe, once you go holo, it completely changes everything! It’s like taking a little rainbow with you everywhere.
Thank you for amazing giveaway!
I love Beauty and the Beast…my favorite Disney movie and it is the first one I ever seen!
fairy_ana recently posted: Swatch: Essence TE Circus Circus
Hey fairy_ana!
You’re very welcome. ๐ Good luck in the draw!
I wish u lived where I lived so I can invite u to come see our show! people have been crying and touched ๐ we have our second to the last show tonight!
Thanks for the giveaway!
email: cruz042 at cougars.csusm.edu
Arianne recently posted: Gossip Girl Season 5: Riding in Town Cars with Boys
Hey Arianne!
All the best on your show! ๐
I am new to your site and love it! It’s also nice to find a Canadian beauty blogger.
Hey Amanda!
Canadian beauty lovers gotta stick together. ๐
I only recently found your site, but it’s quickly become one of my favorites! Keep up the great work!!
Hey Nicole!
I’m glad that your found your way here. ๐ I’m honoured that Swatch And Learn has become a favourite of yours! ๐ And thank you for the encouragement.
This year for christmas, i dont want anything other than my grandma to get better so she can be home with my family. In early october she got really sick and we almost lost her. But shes a fighter!! Shes been in a rehab center for over a month, learning how to walk again because her illness made her bed ridden for a while. She wasnt able to spend thanksgiving with our family, so that is the only thing i want. =]
Hey kristina!
I’m keeping you, your grandmother, and your entire family in my thoughts and prayers.
I know it’s really hard for you during this time, but it’s great to hear that your grandmother’s a fighter. That makes a big difference. And it’s good that she has your best wishes and support. I really hope that she can go home and spend the holidays with you.
Back in December 2009, my dad suffered a stroke, and it shook everything up. We weren’t sure if he’d be able to come home for Christmas, but the doctors let him just for a few days. Then he had to go back. In March 2010, he passed away. My family and I are still feeling the pain, and I never expected to lose my father like that so suddenly when I was still in my 20s.
This is an amazing giveaway!
I’m totally looking forward to spending time with my family on Christmas day. We always mess around have just laugh all day long. And even though my aunt complains about having to cook some chicken for me (because I don’t eat turkey), I think she secretly enjoys it haha. So yeah, I can’t wait for that!
And guess what??! I’ve never seen Beauty and the Beast haha. But I hear it’s coming out in 3D next year so I guess I can see it then ๐
Thanks so much for the giveaway! And thanks for making it international too!!!
Hey Kara!
Hope you have a wonderful Christmas! ๐ And y’know what? I also don’t really care for turkey. If anything, I love the stuffing, but I’ve never been crazy about the actual taste of turkey.
Wow, after reading more comments, I’ve noticed that other people haven’t seen Beauty and the Beast, either. Looks like I didn’t need to go rush to watch it. ๐ Haha!
Wow. Your First time Watching Beauty and the Beast. :O Then again I did re-watch it a few weeks ago for old times sake. Great Movie ๐
Seriously, that KleanColor Chunky Holo Purple is making me drool. O~O’ I’ve been yearning for it forever now plus I can never find any holos locally. And that Sigma Shadow looks Gorgeous.
Hey Kathy!
The way holos are so hard to find in person, it’s making me feel like they’re like the last unicorn or something. ๐
OMGiveaway!
I’m trying to figure out a present for my boyfriend. I think me and my best friend just came up with an idea ๐ Have a nice day!!
-Em
Em recently posted: OPI Sit Under the Apple Tree with DL Happy Birthday (Shimmer Sammich)
Hey Em!
Hahaha, I like that: “OMGiveaway!” ๐
Shopping for guys can be tricky…at least for me! I find it way easier to shop for women, that is if they like beauty products, of course. ๐ I’m sure your boyfriend will love whatever you get him because you put a lot of heart and thought into it.
Hope your day’s going well, too!
Hi Mary
What an amazing giveaway! I love Beauty and the Beast, so nice you watched it. Your blog is really good, you show a lot of photos but what I think makes a real difference is the amount of text you write. You give lots of information and your views.
I’m wearing Dior Nirvana first time today – its a stunner!
Sara
Hey Sara!
Yes, I’m quite opinionated. ๐ And I do enjoy writing and expressing myself that way. Glad that you read it and that it’s helpful! ๐
Oh, I’ve never tried Dior Nirvana – I’ll have to smell it the next time I see it.
Hey!
Great products for giveaway. I love burts bees and I want to try eos but I love my burts bees lip balm and Carmex. I’m so excited for the holidays this year, the china glaze polish is so christmas-ey and I LOVE IT! Love your blog, its one of my favorites. ๐
Hey Brianna!
Glad that I made it on your favourites list! ๐ YAYYYYY!
Those polishes. Ahhh. I wannnnt them, lol. I’m so annoyed that I can’t find China Glaze in Europe, and I’m planning on having CG Holly Day sent from the States. I’ve just set my eye on it, and can’t seem to let it go, haha.
This is such a sweet thing to do! Thanks for the opportunity ๐
About Beauty & The Beast : Better late than never!
Merry christmas! ๐
Hey Charlotte!
It’s such a travesty that you can’t find China Glaze in Europe. They’re one of my favourite nail-polish brands because of their wide colour selection. I really hope they branch out because everyone should feel the joy of wearing their polishes!
Merry Christmas to you, too!
Hi and ohh I absolutely _love_ your blog.
I just painted my nails with some new colors I bought yesterday. They were really cheap, only two euros, but worth well over it. They dried really fast and the other one of them is a graffiti polish and it’s really good, a really nice crackle and it doesn’t graffitify too quickly and won’t drag the base color with it. The base color is really intense pink with glitter and the graffiti is black. I call them my cougar nails haha. I better get some more of this polish before it runs out of the store since it’s my new favorite.
Hey Silja!
I just love when you find great nail polish for a low price. ๐
AHAHAHA – Cougar nails!
I’m super stoked to watch the movie Hugo with my family. I rarely (if ever) get to watch movies with my folks so I’m really looking forward to it… even if I hate the movie it’s nice to have an excuse to spend time with the fam! …hoping the 3D won’t make them nauseous.. haha
Hey Nicole!
You know, I’ve never been to the theater with my family ever, so I think it’s really cool that you’re going. Hope Hugo is fun! I saw the trailer, and it looks promising. But if in doubt, always get yummy buttered popcorn. It’ll make even the worst movie seem better. ๐ That’s my theory, anyway.
Hi from New Zealand! I love your blog.
I am counting down my days until work finishes, only 9 left!
I can not wait to spend the summer going to the beaches, reading good books, seeing my family and relaxing.
I always wonder what it would be like to experience a “white” christmas seeing as I live on the other side of the world and our Christmas is during summer
Hey Justine!
I’m counting down with you! ๐ Woo hoo! Nine days isn’t a lot – almost there!
This is a great giveaway! I have been trying to find the China Glaze party hearty nail polish and no luck ๐
This Christmas is my first in California. I’m from Arizona so I’m loving having an actual cold winter this year.
Caressa recently posted: Platinum & Purple
Hey Caressa!
Haha, California’s cold? ๐ I’m from Canada, so…hehe, to me, California is balmy. I’ve only been there once years ago…in October. I had a wonderful time – really want to go back there. Hmm…it would be interesting to celebrate Christmas in a place without snow. All my Christmases have been spent in Canada, so usually it’s a white Christmas.
hey i really love all the stuff. almost as much as i love your blog! thanks for doing the giveaway and im super exctied to possibly win the china glaze party hearty. (I was just about to order it but I am going to wait) ๐
thanks again!
Hey Shelby!
Best of luck in the draw! ๐ I knew that China Glaze Party Hearty would be a hit – it’s Christmas in a bottle as far as I’m concerned! ๐
Yay for giveaways!! Thanks Mary!! I’m loving all the prizes!! =)
Also…yay for Beauty and the Beast!! I always make it a point to watch the live show when I go to Orlando! They always have in it Hollywood Studios and I love it!!
Kee recently posted: Haul part 2 and good news!
Hey Kee!
I’ve never seen the live show – I bet it’s really fun. Maybe one day…
Hi! I love reading your blog everyday, your review of the top box made me subscribe to the BirchBox and i absolutely love it, so thanks. I really like how you don’t only swatch the really expensive make-up but you also do a lot of drug store brands.
I’m glad you watched beauty and the beast. it was never one of my favorite disney movies because the beast always scared me when i was really little but it is still a classic and i like the songs in it
Happy St. Nicks Day!!
Hey Kate!
It’s so nice that there are American and Canadian versions of this kind of service. ๐
Haha, no problem. But I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that I usually can’t afford the expensive cosmetics. ๐ (Thank you, Wallet! Err…Haha)
YAY – I’m so excited that you know today is St. Nicholas Day! ๐ I wish the same to you, too!
Ever since I found your blog, I wont buy a nail polish until i check to see if you have a review on it! Heehee! Your super talented.
Tiffani recently posted: Easy Livin’…
Hey Tiffani!
Oh my – Haha, I’ll need to start reviewing more polishes or you’ll be limited. ๐ So many polishes. So few fingernails. ๐
So I was searching for a swatch of a nail polish that a blogger mentioned in her post but she didn’t provide a picture so I had to hunt it down. Some how I ran across your blog, the link it gave me wasn’t the color I was looking for but I just randomly started clicking on posts and decided to subscribe.
You have a really cool blog, and I look forward to reading more posts from you. Keep up the amazing work ๐
Hey Kim!
I’m glad that you found your way here, even if you didn’t initially find the colour you were looking for.
And thank you for subscribing! ๐
I was thinking about love in December specially that new zales commercial with the two couples lying in the snow before he gives her the ring. I love it and hope I’ll find love like that such rare love that makes your heart pound as soon as you look at him, can feel he’s body heat when he’s near, can’t stop touching, smiling, and he gives you his coat when your cold. Finding the right guy that has flaws but thats what makes him perfect. I don’t really know much about love, I’ve seen it and hope to experiance it this christmas.
Popping champagne, kissing under the mistletoe, and joy
Happy holidays everyone , Sincerely Maria
Hey Maria!
I hope that you experience that kind of true love. ๐ Everyone needs to find it and cherish it. Even if you don’t find it this Christmas, when you find your true love, the wait will be worth it.
Merry Christmas! ๐
Thank you, same goes to you and everyone!
Ever since reading your blog, it’s been making me consider other nail polish companies besides OPI, China Glaze, and Essie. Thank you for all your hard work! (:
Hey Karena!
That’s great to hear because even though the brands you mentioned are among my favourites, there are lots of other terrific brands out there that sometimes don’t get enough recognition. ๐ Like Nubar!
You’ve got some pretty great stuff for giveaway, so I guess it’s worth a shot, huh?
One of my favorite things about the holidays is putting the tree up the day after Thanksgiving. Nothing is more sad to me than when we have to finally take it down. I think Christmas lights are so pretty, I even have them strung in my room at all times. ๐
Beauty and the Beast is my favorite Disney film.
Hey Sarah!
Yes, it’s definitely worth a shot. ๐
I’m like you on having to put away the Christmas tree. Back when I was living at home with my parents, I was in charge of putting up the tree and decorating it. When we had to pack it back in the box, I always felt so sad. It’s amazing how holiday decorations can make you so happy! ๐
I love checking out your nail polish pictures so I can decide what to spend my hard earned money on and what to pass up!
Hey Jenny!
I’m glad that I could help out. ๐ Sometimes I feel bad busting a product on here, but when I do, I feel good about being honest in the end. If a product doesn’t work, I feel compelled to tell everyone so that they don’t waste their time or money. And when I find a winner that reaches holy-grail status, I have to shout at the top of my lungs atop the highest mountain. (Unfortunately there aren’t any mountains where I live, so I end up just blogging. ;))
You have reignited my spark for all things girly! I have 3 kids aged 2 years and under and I work full time so I don’t have a lot of extra time in my day for primping. I let it slide for a long time until I, randomly came across your blog and my love for all things pretty and shiny has been renewed! I am so inspired that I am going to try my hand at making my own mineral makeup! Thank you and keep it up, I look forward to reading it when I get a few spare seconds ๐
Hey Heidi!
Wow, sounds like you have your hands really full with the kids and with work! ๐ I admire you and women like you who are able to balance a family life with work life.
It’s cool that you’re going to try making your own mineral makeup. I’ve never tried making my own – just bought pre-made ones. I imagine that you can really perfect the formula and make it one that’s ideal for your skin type and skin colour. ๐
Thanks for the great giveaway. I found your blog about a month ago when I was looking for some OPI swatches. I’ve enjoyed reading your work and invite you to check out my own, very new blog: http://31lacquers.blogspot.com/. Thanks again, and happy holidays! =)
Tonya
Tonya Kaushik recently posted: Day 2: Orange – Del Sol: Sun Kissed
Hey Tonya!
Just took a look at your new blog and followed you on Google Friend Connect. ๐
Merry Christmas!
Just found your site and stumbled upon your giveaway of wonderful things I love so I had to enter! I came for the nail swatches but will be checking your site out in the coming days. Can’t wait to get to know you!
Hey patty!
Thanks for stopping by and for wanting to come back! ๐ I love returning visitors!
What an awesome giveaway! You’re too generous.
Aw, I watched Beauty and the Beast on TV as well! It was one of my favourite movies as a kid and by seeing it again I learned I still know every word to it! ๐
Is it weird that every time I go to a Shopper’s Drug Mart I always scan the stand of Gosh polishes just in case there’s a random bottle of Holographic hanging around? I feel so silly doing it, because I know they’re looooong gone – but a girl can dream, right? Riiiight? *cries*
Hey Cristina!
This was one easy way I could think of to give back to my readers, so I had to do it…plus it’s the last day of the year, and I felt like celebrating with all of you. ๐
It’s amazing how our favourite movies from childhood really make such an impact on us that we can still remember every word from it today. You can tell that they’re quality films.
Haha, no, it’s not weird at all! I actually do the same thing with the Gosh polishes at Shoppers! ๐ I keep thinking that maybe it was a neglected bottle that they just found in some dusty corner and then put it on the display. No such luck yet for me, either!
Dudessa, why didn’t I know about this shit earlier? So, I’m thinking that I’d really like to try the honeysuckle lip balm out – but I’d like to rub it off someone else’s lips…hint hint wink wink. Hmmm, small talk….see the Immortals…Henry Cavill is just delish! Oh, and I’ve read a cool book (cue laughing)…. Her Fearful Symmetry. Love ya toots, see ya on the internetz. J
Hey Jedi!
Hahaha, your entire comment cracked me up!
I honestly look forward to every christmas going to one of my dad’s best friends house. I feel so welcome and their like my second family.
Hey Caroline!
That must be such a comforting feeling to feel like you have a second family that you’re so close with. ๐ Have a great time!
I always look forward to doing a few holiday themed makeup and manicure looks. Holiday makeup is so much fun-love all the glitter and sparkle!
Hey Vanessa!
So far I’ve only done one ‘holiday’ manicure this year. Really it’s more a ‘seasonal’ manicure since I didn’t do Christmas-specific nail art. Hmm…I have to get on that! There are lots of things I want to try, but it feels like I’m racing against time. Hope I can post a few on here when I wear them. ๐
MY NAILS are on my mind right now!!!!! I’m wearing OPI I got the blues for red and essie set in stones((:
Hey Claire!
I don’t have either of those polishes you mentioned, but I’m picturing the combination in my head, and it’s very festive! ๐
I’m thinking about how I can never stay put when I’m doing my nails. I just smudged my pinkie while on a scavenger hunt for some sweet snacks…Now I’ve confined myself back to the couch with no sweets as a punishment! Now i’m thinking about that brownie I could have had…..
Frosso recently posted: Nails Inc The Old Vic Collection
Hey Frosso!
It’s funny that you mention it because whenever I paint my nails, I tend to feel hungry all of a sudden, even if I just ate dinner. But I can’t bring myself to eat while I’m painting. Afterwards, YES!
What has saved me was a fast-dry top coat! ๐ Seriously…if I didn’t use Seche Vite, I’m pretty sure my manicures would get all dinged up. But when I slap that on, it dries to fast and then I can just do the stuff that always comes to mind only when I’m painting. ๐
I’m thinking that I should really go to sleep right now…It’s really late here :/
Alaeis recently posted: NYX auto eye pencil in Black
Hey Alaeis!
*Sings you a lullaby* ๐ Although, it may not sound great because it’ll be slightly off-key. (I’m not a singer…hehe)
Yay, such wonderful things that you’re giving away.
I’ve recently seen The Muppets movie! It was really great since I’ve grown up loving them so much. I was incredibly surprised to find out about how many people never grew up with them! I always assumed they were popular to watch like Barney haha.
Hey Lawren!
Glad that the prizes appeal to you. ๐
I really think that our generation had the coolest shows and characters – Rainbow Brite, Care Bears, He-Man, She-Ra, Sesame Street, The Muppets, etc. Although I wasn’t a little kid when Barney became popular, I did watch a few episodes because I’m always curious to see what children are currently watching. I can’t say that the show had the same magic that the other shows/characters I mentioned previously. But…if kids like it, then that’s good.
How sweet of you, Mary!
…and you included my all-time favourite cuticle cream. Burt’s Bees has been my go-to cream ever since I tried it on a whim about 4 years ago. That stuff ROCKS! I buy it and send it to the fellow nail polish nuts on my tree at Christmas because it is truly a lifesaver in the winter.
My daughter and I used to watch Beauty and the Beast over and over and sing along with the songs and dance around the living room.
Have a great day, hon!
Hey karen!
Cool! I also tried it out on a whim and was so surprised how much I enjoyed it. I really love the way the cuticle cream smells and how it goes on the skin. I use it sometimes, but I really need to be using it more because as the weather is getting colder, my cuticles (and hands) are feeling drier.
Hope your day’s going well, too! ๐
What an huge giveaway!
As a fellow Mary S., I’m never sure if people are referring to me or you on Beautylish lol.
Hey NeonChipmunk!
Haha, yeah, I remember the first time I saw you on beautylish. Thought it was cool that we’re both Mary S’s. ๐ I don’t know too many Marys in real life (it doesn’t seem to be a common name for our generation), so when I see a Mary who’s around my age, I get a little excited. *Nerdy smile*
I am really looking forward to Christmas, I love that I get to buy presents for everyone and spend time with my family. I also love the cool nail art you can get away with around Christmas. What other time can I pull off reindeer faces on my nails? ๐
Nikki Ash recently posted: Just a couple of things
Hey Nikki!
Reindeer nail art! ๐ That sounds like so much fun to wear! Totally up my alley.
Hey Mary! That’s such a lovely thing you’re doing for the holiday season and someone will have an extremely happy christmas with your giftaway! ๐ Thanks for being such an awesome beauty blogger!
Hey Edith!
I sure hope so – I really wanted to put a huge smile on someone’s face this season! ๐ It was the one thing I could think of doing to really give back to my amazing readers!
Very nice giveaway!!! I have recently been watching all those wonderful christmas movies like how the grinch stole christmas, Elf and many more. I just love Christmas movies!!!
Hey tessa!
Yes, those are great Christmas movies! And every Christmas, I always need to watch at least one version of A Christmas Carol and either the first or second Home Alone movie. It’s one of my holiday traditions!
I loved beauty and the beast too. I have 3 sisters so growing up we each had our own Disney princess to claim. I had The Little Mermaid because my name is Arielle. My sister Amber got Belle b/c she loved yellow, Hannah got Jasmine b/c she loved tigers and Richelle got Pocahontas b/c she had a tan and long dark hair.
i just won a Sephora gift card for $25 from my local radio station so I get to buy more polish for Christmas!
Arielle recently posted: Purple Crumpet Fairy 31 Days of Christmas
Hey Arielle!
It’s cute how you and your sisters claimed your own Disney princess! I have to say that while all your choices were great, I have a thing for Ariel…Sometimes about her red hair. ๐ Great choice – that movie had so many catchy songs to sing along with.
Congratulations on winning the Sephora gift card! ๐
I love Beauty and the Beast! Gaston’s song always made me laugh too. When my son was little he used to laugh so hard, and I’d keep rewinding it so he could listen to it again. Now he’s too old and “too cool” for Beauty and the Beast. (boys don’t watch those movies, you know!) He wouldn’t let me dress him up as a fairy for Halloween, either…. Ah, so sad. I need a little girl around….
Anyway, I love your blog and your nail art tutorials. I have tried a few, even. I’m a beginner, but your tutorials make them really easy to create. As a side note, my son won’t let me paint his nails, either….
(I wouldn’t REALLY dress him as a fairy, or paint his nails…um…well…probably not, anyway) ๐
Hey Michelle!
Hahaha, you cracked me up about the fairy costume and painting his nails! ๐
I’m pleased to hear that you’ve tried some nail art. ๐ YAYYY! Hope you had a lot of fun wearing them. I try to make the steps really easy to follow because sometimes when you see just finished nail art, it looks intimidating. But then when you see the steps, and each step is easy, it makes it simpler to re-create. And one of my goals is to make nail art more accessible for everyone, not just people who are already great painters. I think with a lot of nail art, it takes more patience than advanced skill. ๐
What’s on my mind now. Hmm… I guess I’m still shocked over the fact that David Beckham was a mere 1m away from me last night (watched his game) and I’m wondering if I should paint my nails red even though I painted them pink 2 nights ago. =P
Thanks for the giveaway!!
Lots of love and hugs!
M.May recently posted: Funky Zebra Nail Art
Hey M. May!
Hehe, David Beckham’s sooooo gorgeous! It’s funny, though, how he always seems to pose even during the game. Or at least that’s the way it seems when he stands with his hands on his hips. And of course everyone scrambles to take his photo. ๐ Can’t say I blame them.
Lots of love and hugs right back at ya!
I Really love your blog. i am a regular reader. i stay in india
i hope this giveaway is open for me
thanks
Hey Khushboo!
Yes, this giveaway is open to everyone. ๐ Thanks for being a regular reader!
Wow this is such a great giveaway ๐
What’s on my mind at the moment – hmmm……how many festive manicures I can fit in ๐
Hey Jackie!
Haha, I know the feeling – so many festive nail-art ideas and not enough time! Hope you can try out as many as possible. They’re so much fun to wear.
This looks like some nice products! Love the purple polish!
Hey Gretchen!
The purple looks incredible when layered over a purple polish. It’s like rainbowy magic goodness!
Hey Mary,
I comment on a lot of your posts, so I think today I just wanna tell you 5 reasons why you write my favorite nail polish/beauty blog-
1. You reply to every comment. Always, without fail. That’s so nice because I think most of us are commenting and checking out your blog to be part of the whole beauty blog community, you know? You write a blog, not an encyclopedia (although it has enough info to be one!!) and it’s awesome to have that interactive piece.
2. You have enough info to fill an encyclopedia but it’s so much more fun than a big boring book. ๐
3. Your pictures are fantastic and only going to get better with your new camera.
4. You took the time to check out my blog (and are my only commenter!! [which is kinda sad, but I’m still hanging in there] Thank you.) shortly after my very first comment on your blog, which I thought was super SUPER nice!!
5. Your entries are informative but you also mix in some personal stuff which makes it fun and lets us all get to know you a little bit.
Thanks again! (for everything) ๐
PS: I have a question for you: How long have you been doing this blog?
Nicole recently posted: Clairvoyant Intensified- Layering Experiment
Hey Nicole!
THANK YOUUUUUUU for taking the time to make me feel so good about myself! Seriously, when I’m having a bad day, I’m going to have to re-read your comment. ๐
One of my major goals was to create an interactive beauty community on Swatch And Learn, so I’m really glad that you see it! It’s wonderful readers like you that make it possible. Without your comments, it would make it seem like I’m writing to myself! Haha! And I do enough of that in my diary…
Yes, hang in there. As you continue to add more to your blog, trust me, people will visit more often. ๐ Definitely it just takes time. I really liked the layering you did in that post you linked to. ๐
I’ve been blogging for Swatch And Learn since July 25, 2010. ๐ In ‘blogging years’, that really isn’t that long compared to the big beauty bloggers out there who I love!
You’re totally welcome!! ๐ What you said about creating an online beauty community is exactly why I like reading blogs and what I (eventually) want mine to be like. Anyway, thanks again and you absolutely deserve all the good feedback you get from your readers. Keep up the excellent work! ๐
Nicole recently posted: Attempted dot ombre nail art- not quite ombre but cute! ๐
๐ x 183083738793690309736736!
Hi, Mary,
Don’t want to be entered into the drawing because I would only want the polishes (plus I hate honeydew and already have Burt’s Bees). However, I still wanted to use the chance to thank you for your everything. You have been wonderful in your emails, comment responses and, most recently, your support of my blog. Swatch and Learn is one of the blogs that started me on my nail polish obsession, and will always be one of my favorite places to visit for a regular nail/beauty fix!
another Cristina recently posted: NOTD-Essie Shine of the Times over Color Club Red-ical Gypsy
Hey another Cristina!
Haha, that’s okay. I’ll make a note not to enter you in this draw. Aww…you hate Honeysuckle Honeydew? You could give it away to a friend maybe. ๐
Thank you for still leaving a comment to make my ego really big today! ๐ SERIOUSLY! I’m scared about it all going to my head. Some of it will need to be distributed to my hands and feet, too, just so that I’m more balanced. ๐
Wow! This is a lovely blog and I can’t believe how many comments there is!
I would love to try the products in your giveaway.
Kamilla recently posted: Face of the Day / December 5th / Caffeine Rush
Hey Kamilla!
I can’t believe it, either! ๐ I’m not used to getting 200+ comments on a single post. It’s been so much fun reading what people have to say!
Hi!
I love Christmas and winter!! =) We just got a little snow here in Finland, I hope it will be here at Christmas too! =)
Hey M!
Yes, there’s nothing quite like a white Christmas. ๐ Hope Mother Nature cooperates!
I’m from Agrentina and I’m thinking I had to cook last year Christmas meal practically naked (just wearing my underwear) because it was so hot here.
This Christmas is probably going to be as hot as the last, I suffered 30ยบC/86F yesterday.
(For all those who watched Game of Thrones: Summer is coming)
Hey Jazmin!
Since I’ve lived in Canada my whole life, I’m always used to cold winters. Even when we have a ‘mild’ winter, it’s still chilly. So I can’t even imagine what it’s like to have a hot Christmas…so hot that you have to cook almost in the buff. Haha!
A TV commercial for air conditioning systems that I watched last week. So that you get the picture. I felt quite identified with the little girl in 0:30
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgGMuFFx5DU
AHAHA! I just watched the YouTube clip – HILARIOUS! Yeah, I wouldn’t want to use the remote control afterwards, either. ๐ I’d need to sanitize it first.
What an amazing giveaway. I have been searching for a good cuticle cream, and just can’t seem to find a good one. My favorite holiday tradition is making Christmas cookies with my kids and then reading them the night before Christmas before I tuck them in:) Hope I win all these great goodies, Happy Holidays:)
Hey nikki!
A lot of people also really like the Lush Lemony Flutter cuticle cream, but I’ve never tried it. You may want to give it a go. ๐
What a sweet holiday tradition. ๐ Your kids are going to look back on those fond memories when they get older and cherish that time.
Merry Christmas!
Hi my name is Ashley and i am going into beauty school to learn hair, skin, and nails. I am starting in Jan. I am so excited. I have always wanted to go into beauty school since i was a little kid. I just recently got my nails done two days ago my first time. lol yeah kinda hard to believe:) but that is what brought me to this site. I was so upset because the place i went to was advirtising stuff she could not do on nails and i was there for two hours and she had to redo them twice. I left pretty upset. So i wanted to learn more about nails so i have been searching around on the internat. I really think that i am going to try to get in to the whole nail thing to now. I lokked up airbrush kits and stamps and i think it would be really fun to do. Then i could do my own and my friends also and have no worries lol. so wish me look on everything ha ha oh and by the way your nails look soooooo good:) i hope i can get mine to look like that well talk to you later have a good Christmas. love Glamour Girl ๐
Hey Ashley!
Congratulations on taking the step and going to beauty school! I bet that you’ll learn a lot of interesting things and that you’ll get to be really creative with the techniques you pick up.
You know, even to this day, I have never had my nails done professionally! I really enjoy doing them myself, so in an odd way, having them done by someone else wouldn’t be as much a treat to me.
Hope you have a wonderful Christmas, Ashley! ๐
Hey!
I am so excited to see that this giveaway is open to everyone! I didn’t get that memo until today otherwise I would have been on here sooner.
Kelsey
Hey Kelsey!
I’m so excited about announcing the winner. I can’t wait to make someone really happy!
Amazing giveaway!
I’m currently thinking about the horrific allergic reaction I’m dealing with (I thought I wasn’t allergic to anything) and how I can’t wait to get the use of my hands back so I can get back to my gardening and baking. Rah!
Kelsy recently posted: pretties from the garden.
Hey Kelsy!
Oh geez – so sorry to hear about your allergic reaction that just popped up. I found out about certain food and cosmetic allergies the hard way. Now I know what to avoid…but it was difficult dealing with the symptoms – thank goodness they were temporary.
If you haven’t already, you should take an anti-histamine or see your doctor. Anti-histamines (especially the extra-strength ones) can make the flare up go away completely in minutes. Or, since it’s on your hands, maybe you can try a cortisone cream…
Hi!
wowza! Amazing giveaway!
I just did one on my blog and I asked paticipants to list there favorite blog and yours came up!
So happy I found it!
I read you did canadians only giveaways before, I guess you are from Canada? I’m also canadian, from Quรฉbec (sorry if my english is weird, lol).
What’s on my mind? Humm, I just tried Essie – Shine of the Times (Luxeffects Collection) and can’t stop looking at my nails, Love Flakies ๐
Thanks for the giveaway! Very generous of you!
PtiteMeve
PtiteMeve recently posted: NOTD – First holiday-ish Colors
Hey PtiteMeve!
Wow, thanks for telling me that – I’m honoured that my blog came up! ๐
My previous 2 giveaways were for Canadians only, but the giveaways I had before those 2 were open to the US, too. So it was about time to have a giveaway open to everyone! ๐
Yes, I’m Canadian, and proud of it! (No, your English is great – not weird at all. You’d have to start mentioning kazoos in every sentence for it to be weird, but even then, I’d love it!)
Essie Shine of the Times is GORGEOUS! Gotta love a pretty flakie!
Hey girly! Great giveaway!
I can’t believe you’ve only just now seen that movie! I watched it a BILLION times when I was a kid!
Hey thenailaholic!
Haha, I know, right? ๐ Late Disney bloomer.
I’ve been really digging those EOS lip balms lately. The peach scented one smells SO awesome! Thank you for the opportunity to win this fabulous giveaway!!!
Dana
Hey Dana!
I didn’t even know that there was a peach-scented one – sounds delicious!
Loving the sparkly nailpolish! Very festive
Taylor recently posted: Oh Anthro
Hey Taylor!
Glad you think so. ๐ Everyone can sport glitter around the holidays!
What a splendid giveaway! I cant wait for christmas, but both looking forward and wishing it wasnt december yet, as I am handing in my MA thesis in mid january. Never enough time!
But what I look forward to christmas (we in Norway celebrate on the 24th in evening) is the fooood! We have same every year: rack of lamb rib with root veggie mash and potatoes. It may not sound like much, but I sewar everyone who smells it drools! It salty, savory and just godness all around! And the presents, have to admit it!
Hey Kristina!
All the best on your MA thesis! ๐ Hope you rock it – that’s so much work that you’ve put in. I remember writing my thesis for my 4th year as a psychology undergrad student. Even that was a lot of work, but very rewarding when I saw how much I accomplished in the end. ๐
Umm…even just reading about the food is making me salivate!
MY NAILS are on my mind of course!! I’m wearing OPI got the blues for red with essie set in stones on top!!!! Gorge all the way((:
Hey Claire!
You already posted a comment earlier. I’ve entered you once in this giveaway. ๐ Good luck!
This is such a lovely giveaway Mary! You’ve really chosen some wonderful products! I have been dying to try out the EOS lip balms, I’ve heard some many good things about them but unfortunately they are not available here in Spain…
Thank you for such a generous giveaway ๐
Hey Ruth!
You’re very welcome. ๐ Good luck in the draw!
I’m looking forward to watching The Sound of Music! It’s one of my all time favorite movies and it always comes on around Christmas time.
Hey Marisa!
Climmmmbbbb every mountainnnn! Hehe, I loved it when Mother Superior sang that. Who knew that she had pipes like that? ๐
LOL!!! They could all sing. I can’t wait until it comes on this year. I have the VHS, but who has a VCR anymore :-/.
Marisa recently posted: Sally Hansen – Tyin’ the Knot!
Haha, yeah, all VCRs are old. But I have seen a few sold at stores. I was shocked, and the price was so high, probably because they’re on their way to becoming obsolete.
My dad was an electronics buff, so he still had a bunch of VCRs that worked really well and he had tons of VHS tapes in great condition. Since he passed away, my mom still has them, but she’s not really into movies or electronics like he was, so they’re just sitting there until I go over to visit and use them.
Hi there! I have to say first of all that this is the first time i post a comment but not the first time that i pass by! I’ve been a follower for over 6 mnths now and i still read and love every single posts of yours! So far, your swatches are in my top 5 in term of accuracy! I also love the post that are non nails related because there is enough to vary but it is still a nail blog! I really enjoy my 30 min of blog reading (yours is second on my tabs) every day after my super long office hours. Keep up the great work!
Now, i have to say that i’m really thrilled about this giveaway since most items are lemmings (eos lip egg and kleancolor beauties) I wish good luck to anyone but secretly dream of winning it for myself ๐
Thank you so much for being awesome at what you do!
Marine (Montreal,Quebec,Canada)
Hey Marine!
Thanks for posting your first comment! ๐ Hope that you’ll feel comfortable leaving comments in the future, too. I just love seeing what my readers have to say and then replying to them. ๐ And thank you for following me for half a year! I’m honoured that you think so highly of my blog and read it daily. You are certainly a loyal reader, and I appreciate it!
Hehe, I like your honesty. ๐ Good luck in the draw!
Thanks so much for the giveaway (so sweet!) I am so excited for Christmas: what should I bake, gingerbread cookies or peppermint bark? Thanks again! Charlotte
Hey Charlotte!
You know, I’ve never had peppermint bark! But I have had homemade gingerbread cookies before. ๐ My vote goes for the gingerbread cookies!
Well, the Christmas talk is getting me excited because I’m going home for Christmas for the first time since 2007! Very excited! Also….you watched Beauty and the Beast…over the weekend I watched Snow White and Sleeping Beauty, original Disney versions! And I would love to get that lip balm…it was -30 here today and my lips are killing me haha ๐
Hey Amy!
Hope you have a wonderful Christmas with your family! You haven’t been back since 2007? Wow, that’s a long time! I bet you miss everyone terribly.
Awesome giveaway!!
Well, currently I’m thinking about what I need to get to finish my Christmas shopping for my kiddos… not much left but I need stocking stuffers…
Hey Sara!
Aww…it must be so fun to shop for stocking stuffers for the little ones. ๐
What I’m thinking about right now is going home in a week to visit my family for Christmas. I haven’t seen anyone in almost a year since moving all the way across the country to be with my boyfriend who’s in the military. It’s the first time I have ever moved away from family and friends so it was a big step for me. I moved from NH to WA and then a few weeks ago my boyfriend and I just moved to Louisiana. So it’s been really crazy, especially since they were both road trips; and we’re driving home from here. LOL =)
I miss everyone and I can’t wait to see them, and the fact that it’s going to be Christmas is the extra bonus. Christmas time fills me with a ton of emotions as it is, so this year is going to be really emtional. hahaaha.
So that’s what’s on my mind. ……and the fact that I have to paint my nails….as they are naked. AAAHH
Hey Kalee!
It’s tough living far away from your family, so I’m glad that you’ll get a chance to see them during the holidays. ๐ Quality time! Have a lovely time!
Christmas give away in a red & green theme. Fun holiday nails and some cute stocking stuffers for my troubled niece I’ve been worrying about.
Hey Cindy!
I hope things look up for you and your niece. ๐ You’re worrying about her because you care so much, but please remember to take care of yourself, too. ๐ Merry Christmas!
What a great giveaway! And you are super great to include Canadians!! Beauty And the Beast was one of my faves too!!
Hey Shyla!
Of course I had to include Canadians! I’m a Canadian, so if I shut out my own people, I think I should be burned at the stake! Haha!
What a great giveaway!!
I am excited for this weekend because it is my daughter’s third birthday and the first time that she understands that she is having a party!! lol.
Sarah Crawford recently posted: Wordless Wednesday: Can You Get Any Closer?
Hey Sarah!
Aww…cute! Happy early birthday to your daughter! Turning 3 is a big deal. My nephew just turned 1 in September, and yeah, he didn’t really understand that he had a party. ๐ I can’t wait until he’s a bit older so that I can have all sorts of funny conversations with him and also buy him books that he can enjoy more. (I just bought his Christmas present yesterday – The Very Hungry Caterpillar board book with a matching caterpillar plush toy. He’s a fussy eater, so I’m hoping this book and toy will make it encourage my nephew to eat more…haha!)
amazing giveaway ;D
i really want to try the EOS lipbalm.. hope i can win this one ๐
i just find your blog today when i googling about MAC viva glam V. thanks fo the swatches. that lipstick is sooo different when you take the pics with and without flash. is it good for asian skin? i live in indonesia. i have warm skin, not too light but not too dark. i want to get it ๐
Hey Sarah!
No problem. ๐ Yes, with a flash, you can see more of the base colour because the flash brightens everything much more.
It’s definitely good for Asian skin. I’m partially Asian, myself, and I think it works for me. ๐ I think this colour is very flattering on everyone and is easy to wear even for those who don’t usually wear lipstick.
Yayyy awesome giveaway!
I’ve been thinking how much work I still left for my finals next week (Gaahh! Stress, many an all-nighter to look forward to) and how I also need to have some things done for a job app and this and that and more of that… total overload. *tears at hair* T_T Just cannot wait for the holidays and get to play games and relax with loved ones!
lulu recently posted: Hephaestus & Aphrodite
Hey lulu!
Hehe, when they say that it’s “the most wonderful time of the year”, it’s also the most stressful time of the year! But…at least we’re working up to good times. ๐
The KleanColor polish is beautiful! I read your blog everyday while I’m at work, gets me through the day!
Hey Kellyn!
Haha, are you allowed to read my blog while working? Hehe, I don’t want to get you in trouble. But…I AM really flattered that you read my blog daily! ๐ YAY! Thank you!
Hi there Ms. Mary!
Awesome giveaway!I’m really dying to try the EOS lipbalm,so many raves about it.:)Newi,Ilove your blog,I just love the design…I wish I’m that knowledgable in designing blogs but im just too naive….
Thank You for this giveaway!I l0ve it!
gfc: arra
twitter: NakedArra
Hey Arra!
Everyone has to start somewhere. You should sign up for a free blog, and just go from there. I taught myself a lot when it comes to blogging, and I’m sure that you can, too! ๐ You’ll get the hang of it pretty quickly.
Aww its so cute, that you watched Beauty and the beast for the first time. I really love that film.
I really like you blog, it helps me alot ๐
Also, thanks for this giveaway. I wasn’t able to enter earlier ones, so im really happy with the chance i can win all of these amazing stuff.
I follow you via GFC with the name Rรฉka and also, im on my way to put the picture onto my sidebar ( dorothyzomg.blogspot.com ) ๐ Have a nice day .
Hey Reka!
I’m glad that you find my blog useful! ๐ And thank you for sharing this giveaway with your blog readers and following me. I appreciate you helping me to spread the word. ๐
Hope you have a wonderful day, too!
I’ve been rewatching the BBC show “How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?”, and it has put me in such a mood for a musical. Luckily I’m going to London in a few weeks, and I’ve bought tickets to see “Wicked” – yay! ๐
Hey Johanne!
Have fun seeing Wicked! ๐ I haven’t seen it, but a lot of people keep saying it’s fun to watch.
I LOVE YOUR BLOG!! Keep up all the great work that you do!
This is such a great giveaway and I would love to try out the EOS lipbalm ๐
Hey Sam!
Thanks for your encouragement! ๐
Yay for give aways! I am a fairly new addict to your site… I check it daily and have bought tons of products because of your amazing reviews! Something on my mind right now… finals! Blegh. I had two already (even though the semester JUST ended yesterday!). Have projects, research proposals, and more finals all until the 20th! I think it’s really important to take breaks in between studying and think browsing your site is the perfect way to do it! I’m also thinking about how I can’t find EOS anywhere!! I checked my Rexall, Shoppers, and Zellers and no luck! ๐ I want that Honey Suckle so bad lol and want to get them for stocking stuffers for friends! Hopefully one day they will miraculously catch my eye somewhere… haha P.S. Have you tried Bath&Body Works new ‘Enchanted’ collection? It is amazing!
Hey Natalia!
Thank you for visiting my site, and I’m glad that I could help you make some purchasing decisions! ๐
I wish you all the best on your finals and all those projects! It’s a really stressful time with tons of your plate, but you can do it! *shakes e-pom poms*
That’s too bad you can’t find the eos lip balm at your stores. I found them only at Rexall – they weren’t in the lip-balm section. They were in the hair-dye section, and were just hanging in a vertical display. You may want to check all the aisles of your store (or ask a salesperson). They might be ‘hidden’. Haha, it’s like a treasure hunt!
No, I haven’t tried any of the Enchanted collection from Bath & Body Works. Haha, I have tons of other stuff I need to go through before I add to my collection. (I’m so bad! :P)
Good luck in the draw! ๐
Awww Mary I love your blog, and thank you so much for doing this giveaway! Unfortunately, I’ve had a lot of negativity on my mind lately because I am consumed by a very strong dislike for my brother-in-law’s girlfriend. My husband’s parents are taking us to France next summer, and I cried when I found out that she is coming. I am normally the kind of person who can just get over those kinds of things, but there is something about her that just rubs me the wrong way. I have a bad feeling about her that I can’t shake. Ahhh! It’s driving me nuts. Anyways, sorry to bring negativity. Back to the positive. What an amazing giveaway, and it’s so sweet that you always take the time to respond to your comments. I love that!
Jacqui recently posted: Avon Olive Green Stamped with China Glaze 2030
Hey Jacqui!
I’m really sorry to hear that there’s been a lot of stress in your life because of the tricky relationship that you have with your brother-in-law’s girlfriend. That’s not an easy spot to be in, but I hope that you’re able to still enjoy your awesome France vacation despite the obvious difficulties. Please remember that it’s not right to let one person spoil your fun. And…you never know! The trip could bring you both together. ๐
It’s okay to talk about things that upset you, Jacqui. Please don’t feel the need to bottle it up. Nobody’s always positive. I mean, I try to stay upbeat because I like to encourage positivity in others, but I also have a lot that bothers me. Sometimes you need to vent to the right person because it does help. If you ever want to talk about things, feel free to e-mail me. I’ll keep it confidential. I just want you to know that there’s someone here who’s willing to listen and try to provide sound advice if you want. ๐
Hope you have a wonderful weekend!
Hi Mary!
Awesome giveaway!!
What’s been on my mind lately? Besides studying, REVIEWING! I have a major final coming up that’s worth 50%. Talk about “no pressure”! I can’t wait til next week is over so I can breath in the cold air lol
Hey Tari!
All the best on your final – 50% is a huge chunk of your mark, so do your best to ace it! ๐ I’m rooting for you!
Yes, celebrate when it’s over. You deserve it.
Wow this is an awesome giveaway! That Kleankolor polish has been on my list for awhile. ๐ What’s on my mind is I’m waiting to hear back about a job I interviewed for earlier in the week. I should hear soon, but it’s still nerve wracking nonetheless! I’m also figuring out Christmas gifts, too. I’ll be buying things last minute yet again it looks like!
Claire recently posted: Orly Fowl Play
Hey Claire!
I hope that you receive some good news about that job! ๐ It’s always difficult waiting, but sometimes good things are worth waiting for! It’ll be a nice Christmas present if you get the job.
I’m exited to go caroling! I always serve apple cider, hot cocoa, cookies, and other goodies after we come back. We sing generic holiday songs and then ask the people if they want to make a request for music. It’s so much fun!
Thanks for the giveaway! Whoever wins is one lucky person… ๐
Hey Ariel!
That’s really sweet how you go caroling! I’ve always wanted to do that for fun, but I never knew anyone who actually did it. Plus…my voice is far from Mariah Carey’s voice…haha! O Silent Night from me might just make people wish that much more strongly for a silent night. :S
What a lovely giveaway! The thing most on my mind right now is the fact that graduate school is over for the semester! One whole month of general relaxation and no stress about papers, exams, conferences, and the like is HUGE! Happy Holidays!
Hey Amanda!
YAY – so you can finally relax and enjoy the holidays! ๐ All that hard work, and now some time for yourself.
Merry Christmas!
I’m thinking about how lovely the eos lip balm would taste lol! I’m a shameless lip gloss eater! JK!
Hey Brynn!
Hahaha, well, if you tend to lick your lips when wearing them, the eos lip balms actually aren’t bad. ๐
I’m looking forward to Christmas, I love the decorations, the warm fuzziness with my friends and sleeping in late because of the holidays!
Love your blog & nails, xoxo
Abby recently posted: Make Up Store’s Siw (Holographic)
Hey Abby!
Sleeping in is such a wonderful luxury! ENJOY IT! ๐
What a great selection of products! I’m enjoying holiday baking this season. I just finished making 3 different types of cookies tonight!
Hey Amy!
I haven’t baked any holiday goodies just yet, but I really want to make some gingerbread because it’s a classic. ๐ When I was little, my mom and I made it every year. But that ended back when I was in high school. It’s time for me to rekindle that tradition. ๐
What a great giveaway!
I’m looking forward to this Christmas! I just recently had twins and it will be their first Christmas. Can’t wait to see them play with their new toys ๐
Hey Joelle!
CONGRATULATIONS on your twins! Wow, you had twice the bundle of joy! ๐ And how sweet? It’ll be their first Christmas. Take lots of photos – memories like this you’ll love looking back on for years to come.
What an awesome giveaway!!!
I am looking forward to being done with finals tomorrow :0) then I’m driving 2 hours to stay at home for a month! love the holidays
Hey Anne!
Enjoy the holidays at home! ๐ And hope you aced your finals!
WHAT?! You just saw Beauty & The Beast? That’s my all time favorite disney movie! haha. But hmm, something on my mind. I’ve been listening to a lot of Sleeping With Sirens, a lot of people think the vocalist is crappy but not too many guys can hit the notes that he hits.
xyoulovekarlene at gmail dot com
Hey Karlene!
Yeah, crazy, right? It’s about time I saw that movie. I was missing out!
Girl, I DO LUV THIS BLOG!
I’ve been really learning things and this givaway is awesome! The polishes are incredbly great, and since I don’t have any MAC product, I hope this is my chance!
Hey Pamela!
Thank you so much for leaving a comment like this. It’s very encouraging! ๐ I’m always so happy to hear when people find my blog helpful. I’m learning things as I go, too, and I just love to share my experiences with others.
I love your blog and look forward to your postings. I would like to win because I’ve never used any MAC products and would like to try.
Davina recently posted: Don’t Throw Me Away
Hey Davina!
Good luck in the draw! ๐
You know, I’ve never worn any MAC eye shadows before. And I won’t ever be able to until they get rid of one ingredient that I’m allergic to. But I know that I’m in the minority and that soooo many people rave about their shadows, so I had to include Humid in here. ๐ Sadly, I can only admire it on others.
Hi Mary!
This looks like a great giveaway! I found your blog by searching for a detailed Topbox review. Your review was awesome because it broke it down into Pros and Cons (I subscribed and got my first tube!) and I’m so excited for next week because I’ll be receiving my Glymm box and Luxe Boxes then. That’s whats on my mind lol. Although I think I’ll cancel my Loose Button subscription since they’re falling behind on their service.
I hope I win! I’ve never even seen some of the products here. Anyways great site, and good luck to all!
P.S. my twitter handle is @madneccy – I’m now following you ๐
Hey MadNeccy!
I ended up subscribing to both Topbox and Loose Button’s Luxe Box. ๐ Can’t wait to see what products my future boxes will include!
Thanks for following me! I appreciate your support! ๐
Awesome giveaway!
I really like Beauty and the Beast. I know the entire song (in portuguese)
And, Oh Lord, I need to study Quantum Mechanics right now…. bye internet =/
Hey Larissa!
That’s cool how you know the song in Portuguese! ๐
Have fun studying Quantum Mechanics…
i am just wondering how are the burt bees products like! since i never used them! i am new to this beauty caring thing and i rarely paid attention to my health and beauty, but now i have started taking care of myself, would you give me any useful beauty tip?
mclasb11 at hotmail dot com
Hey fatem!
I love the Burt’s Bees cuticle cream – it smells lemony like a dessert and moisturizes so well! But I didn’t care for the lip balm.
I’m looking forward to flying home to Minnesota for Christmas for the first time in years. I also look forward to meeting my boyfriend’s parents for the first time (scary!).
Hey Jessica!
Good luck on meeting your boyfriend’s parents for the first time. I can understand why you’d be nervous, but just be polite and like your charming self. ๐
i cannot wait to go christmas shopping for my kids. i’ve picked up a few things here and there and ordered a couple things online, but i honestly can’t wait till Monday when i have a babysitter and can go by myself and pick up the rest of stuff that i want to get them, including stocking stuffers. this is the 1st year that i’ve actually had a little extra money and can give them a really awesome Christmas and still have some left over to buy for the rest of my family.
Happy Holidays everyone & good luck to you all ๐
~Beth~
Hey beth!
I’m not a parent, so I don’t know, but I can imagine how fun it must be to pick out stocking stuffers! ๐
Your kids will appreciate all your effort. ๐ It’s nice that this year, you can really treat them.
Merry Christmas!
Wow, this is some pretty amazing stuff! Thanks for doing the giveaway! I’ve recently started to get more into nail polish, partly because of this blog ๐
Hey Amy!
Hehe, I’m always happy to push polish! ๐
Mary! I have a few things to say:
1. This is like the best giveaway I’ve seen in a long time. I swear have very similar taste!
2. I’m so glad this is international..I wanted to enter your Milani giveaway, but couldn’t.
3. A Christmas tradition I love started with my mom when I was a kid. Every year, she bought me new pajamas and gave them to me on Christmas Eve- it was the only present I was allowed to open on Christmas Eve. That way, the next morning, when she took pictures of me opening presents, I looked all cute and fancy in my new pajamas! Since I moved out the house, (gettin’ old here!) I continued the tradition with my boyfriend. It was so much fun! He got me zebra print fuzzy pants, and a matching tank top, and I got him Star Wars pants and a matching t-shirt.
4. Thanks for hosting the giveaway- hope I win! hehe
Emily Jurow recently posted: 30 Day Makeup Challenge
Hey Emily!
I really tried hard to pick products that would appeal to more people, so I’m happy to hear that you like the prizes! ๐
That pajama Christmas tradition sounds so cute. If I ever get married and have a family of my own, I’d love to do that.
Hi Mary
I stumbled upon your blogs a few weeks ago and was thinking about it so i decided to come back and check to see if you’ve put any new one’s up and I found your lovely competition ๐
The giveaway is one of the best i have seen for a while with awesome items, Tomorrow i am going to a Gypsy fair with my sister which i am quite excited about ๐ I am hoping to buy some cool things there. I recently ordered a konad plate with the cheetah print on it and am excited to do the rainbow brite nails ๐
Enjoy the rest of your Day ๐ x
Hey Jacquie!
Here on Swatch And Learn, I have a new post every single day. ๐ So please do stop by again really soon. There’s always something new to see, and I have wonderful readers who love to engage in conversations. ๐
Wow, a gypsy fair sounds really cool – never been to one, but if I ever go, I’d be most interested in their costume necklaces!
Rainbow-leopard manicures are awesome – so much fun to wear! ๐ Please let me know later how yours turns out when you give it a go.
Have a great day, too! ๐
I need to do my nails more!
Hey jyssica!
I may be biased (I am), but YES! Hahaha…it’s a lot of fun!
I am really into Iggy Azalea, an Australian female rapper, right now. I love her funky style and the fact that she’s from Australia but speaks with a slight southern American accent tickles me.
Hey Cj!
I’ve never heard of her before, but then again, I don’t know many (or ANY, actually) Australian female rappers.
Your comment on Beauty and the Beast brought back great memories of watching it with my kids. And then I started humming Gaston’s song, which made me laugh….”Every last inch of me’s covered with hair”
Hey Sarah!
Hahaha – that part also made me laugh so hard! Then he opens his shirt to prove it…heheheh! And that old Salt ‘N’ Pepa song “Whatta Man!” is going through my head now. ๐
I just wanted to say i have had you Blog bookmarked for almost a year now, and have loved all the hard work you have put in to it. Blogs like yours have inspired my to create my own so i can share my love of polish with everyone ๐ This time of year makes me so grateful for my life and everyone in it, and that includes the people i meet online that share my love of nail polish! Thankyou ๐
Tegan recently posted: Orly – Fowl Play
Hey Tegan!
Thank you so much for bookmarking my blog and coming back to visit. ๐ I’m very thankful that I have loyal readers like you who appreciate my effort!
Ooooh Party Hearty! I missed out on this one. I need to go do some shopping. guhhh. I have no idea what to get for my 2yr old niece for Christmas. I know what to get her for her birthday, but not Christmas. I’ll think of something. ๐
I love Beauty and the Beast. ๐ I have it. Hmmmm I kinda want to watch it now, but I’m in the mood to watch Bad Teachers… I think that one wins. haha
Hey MissMidnightBlue!
Maybe get her some fun (and educational) books! Those are always a hit. ๐ Maybe some Eye Spy books or any of the classic children’s books.
Can I just say, last night I finally learned how to WATER MARBLE! Just like you felt behind in not seeing Beauty and the Beast yet, I felt so behind not knowing how to do this (I have been painting my nails for 13 years now)! I am so excited in coming up with patterns and color combos to go with the holidays! I came across your blog when looking for info about the Holo polish, Northern Lights, and I love your sense of humor! I will definitely be bookmarking this blog and signing up for email alerts ๐
Hey DJ!
YAY for learning how to water marble! Oh geez…I was supposed to try it out a long time ago and post a tutorial of it on here. I just didn’t get around to trying it out – that’s going to be one of my New Year’s Resolutions since I’ve put it off for far too long!
Wow, painting your nails for 13 years! That’s amazing!
Hehe, glad you like my goofy sense of humour. ๐ I like to tickle the funnybone a lot.
I just stumbled upon your blog when looking for swatches of OPI Wocka Wocka! from the Muppets collection. I just recently purchased a small 4 polish set that had it and 3 other Muppet colors in it. I’m so glad I did because your blog is awesome! I’ll definitely be bookmarking it! =)
Hey Amber!
That 4-polish set is soooo cute! ๐ Hope you ended up finding swatches of OPI Wocka Wocka! Hehe, I have swatched a bunch of the OPI The Muppets Collection colours, but most are the glitters.
I’m wondering where I’ll find the time to wrap all of my daughter’s Christmas gifts. I still need to figure out what I’m making for Christmas dinner. I still don’t have our tree up thanks to my husband.
I can’t believe you’ve just seen The Beauty & the Beast! That’s one of my favorite movies. I own it on VHS, DVD & Blu-Ray!
Hey Mary!
Well, you still have some time to get everything done. ๐ Just pace yourself. I’m sure you can do it!
I just started all my wrapping today and I really have no desire to do any more! Add in the fact that I work crazy hours and I honestly don’t know when I’ll have a chance to do it!
Hey Stacie!
Haha, I don’t blame you about the wrapping! Even after I do it for one, I already want to take a break. But I’m sure that your lucky recipients will appreciate all the effort that you’ve put into each gift. ๐
hi!!!, i’m a new reader and follower i found ur blog searching on google about ”fresh frog of bel-air” by opi and i started looking at ur other posts, u have a really cool blog :D!!!
Hey pamela!
Welcome to my blog! ๐ I’m always happy to find out that I have new readers/followers. Hope you’ll come back soon – I update daily.
If you got OPI Fresh Frog of Bel-Air, I hope that you had lots of fun layering with it! I know I did! ๐
P.S. I’ve entered you once in this giveaway. Thanks for participating!
i’m a new follower and reader of your blog, i found it when i was searching on google about opi’s fresh frog of bel-air and i really think you have a cool blog and i love the pictures!!
pamela sanchez recently posted: my first franken polish!!!
Hi ,
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Hey shaimaa!
Wow, thanks for all your incredible support! ๐ I appreciate it soooooo much!
Hi, this is a gorgeous giveaway.
Following you on GFC
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Email ID: sangeeta.govindan@gmail.com
Sangeeta recently posted: Definitely, not the time wasterโs guide
Hey Sangeeta!
Glad you found it enticing. ๐ And thank you for your support!
Hey! Thanks for having an international giveaway! To be honest, I got really excited last time when I saw you had a giveaway, and the stuff up for grabs was great! But then I realized it was only for Canadians haha! So thank you ๐ And might I add, I love the range of items you picked for this giveaway since there is such a variety… plus you’re including GLITTER nail polishes! Yay!
This might sound a bit cheesy but I hope that I will be able to start a nail polish blog soon. I guess I’m just waiting until I have decent amount of polishes in a majority of shades before I officially get started… but when I do finally get it up and going, I hope it’s as successful as your blog! And I hope my swatches turn out as good as yours too hehe ^^ *fingers crossed
Hey Ivy!
Yeah, I really had to do a couple of Canadian-only giveaways because I wanted to give something special back to my fellow Canadians. Before that, I had giveaways that were also open to Americans. But this time, I’m so excited to open it up to everyone – and judging from the response I’ve received so far, it looks like people are really pleased. ๐ So that makes me happy, too!
Ivy, you can start a blog even before you have a lot of polishes. ๐ Trust me – when you start blogging, you’ll probably end up buying more polishes anyway…haha! ๐ And you don’t necessarily need to swatch colours – you can do nail-stamping with what you have or even layer some, do Ruffian manicures with them, etc. There are lots of ways to make the same colours look different. ๐ When you get up and running, please let me know because I’d love to see your blog in action.
P.S. I hope that your swatches turn out better than mine. ๐ I’m still teaching myself along the way and gradually improving.
Yeah, I think people were really pleased that it was international haha.
Aw thanks for the advice! ๐ I actually started my blog a few days ago… before checking this- i think I also realized that I might as well start it since I’m most likely going to keep buying polishes in the future. My swatches aren’t that great but ‘practice makes perfect’ right? :p
P.S. Oh and to be honest, if you improve your swatches they are going to look amazinggggg! I mean, they already look so good lol
Ivy recently posted: Kleancolor Chunky Holo Purple
Aww…thank you so much for saying that, Ivy! ๐
No problem. ๐ I’ll be sure to check it out – congrats on taking the first (and biggest) step! I’m looking forward to seeing lots of great manicures from you. ๐
Hi Mary!
I’ve been silently following your blog for a while and love how detail and trustworthy your content is! I find it so helpful when purchasing items for myself or other people ๐
Today I have to prepare for a few Christmas work parties next week, and finish up holiday shopping. I hope I can find some good deals!
Beauty and the Beast is one of my favourite Disney movies – I love that Belle is a bookworm ^_^
Thanks for organizing this contest! So excited!
Hey Kat!
Thanks for breaking your silence. Now, let’s go to my kitchen. Grab the spoons. I’ll grab the pots. It’s time to wake up the neighbours with our drumming! ๐ Hehhehee…
On a slightly more serious note. *Puts pot away, but keeps looking at it* I reallllly appreciate that you value my content so much. ๐ I do put in a lot of effort because I think it’s really worthwhile and rewarding. Plus my readers are simply the best – they always know how to pick up my spirits, and I’m incredibly thankful for all the wonderful support that I continue to receive.
Good luck in the giveaway! ๐
Hi, I just stumbled on your blog looking for swatches of OPI. Your pics are GREAT and I like that you include do many.
Hey LolaAM!
Glad that you found me – hope you’ll stop by again soon! ๐
Thank you! I’m trying to gradually improve my photography skills.
Hey, this is a great giveaway ๐ i must say that i loooove EOS and China glaze polish ๐ would be grat to try all these other things out, too ๐
The thing that is now on my mind is actually my birthday that is on December 20th so i am really looking forward to spending time with my friend and getting some presents (we all love that, right ๐ ) so winning this prize would be like i got another bday present hehe ๐ so yeah… i am really excited and cant wait to celebrate my bday and just enjoy ๐
Hey Ana!
Happy early birthday! ๐ (Hehe, and yes, we all love presents!) Good luck in the draw.
I’ve just found your blog,bbut it’s amazing ๐
I follow you via GFC (Nรณra), twitter (norejka) and beautylish (Nora P) too ๐
nora.piros@gmail.com is my email address
thanks for the chance *.*
Nรณra recently posted: Kreatรญv adventi nyeremรฉnyjรกtรฉk
Hey Nora!
Welcome! ๐ Hope you visit again really soon. (Thanks for supporting me!)
Thank you for having this wonderful giveaway and for opening it internationally! The only product I have tried here is the EOS lipbalm, although the one I have is the mint flavor. There are so many items you are offering here that I have long wanted to try, but as a disabled woman, there never seems to be the extra money for any of life’s little luxuries. This probably is not the proper place to mention this, but I am feeling so torn about the Holidays this year and I have no one to talk to about it. Last March, I lost my beloved older brother after an extremely long illness and this will be my first Christmas without him in my life; he was my personal hero, as well as being a war hero. I’m sorry to be such a downer, but as I said, I am living a very isolated life and just needed to give voice to my feelings. I’m very sorry if I have offended you or anyone else by bringing this up. I’ll stop now with the self-pity party. I follow you via GFC as Sherry Brooks; my GFC email is different from my contact email- it is ElisMom (at) gmail (dot) com. Thank you again for the giveaway; it is so generous of you in this season of giving! (And thank you for lending me your shoulder).
Hey Sherry!
I’m really sorry that you lost your brother last March. I can really feel your pain, especially since the holidays are approaching. It’s tough not to have your family members with you to celebrate the good times. (I lost my father suddenly in early 2010, so it’s another Christmas without him. I already know it’ll be hard.)
Don’t be sorry to talking about your feelings and opening up. I’m here to listen. If you want to talk about it in further detail, just know that I’m willing to listen. Feel free to e-mail me. And I really hope that your New Year is brighter! ๐
Hi!!! Awesome give away!!! All the products in the give away are drool worthy. I could never get my hands on these one. Recently discovered your blog and loving it ๐
GFC Follower – Sudhaa
Email – sudhaa.gvrn@gmail.com
Twitter Follower – sudhaag17
Tweeted give away
Shared give away on Facebook.
Added to G+
Beautylish Follower – Sudhaa Gopinath
All the best to all the people who have entered the give away!!!!
Hey Sudhaa!
Welcome to my blog, and thanks for supporting me! ๐
Oh golly! I hate living in Denmark when I see all the goodies you can get overseas! Can’t even find a store that sells China Glaze and have been eying the party hearty for some while now ๐ Great blog thoug!
And a merry christmas!
/Lea
Hey Lea!
Yeah, older limited-edition China Glaze polishes are tough to find in physical stores here in Canada, too. The only places that sell China Glaze that I’ve seen mainly carry the core collection, but occasionally certain Trade Secrets locations will offer old colours.
Good luck in the draw! ๐ We’re approaching it soon!
Love your blog. And you, young lady have been responsible for me spending all my monies on stuff that I really really want but don’t really need. No wait… I NEEDED all of them. ๐
What do I think about this giveaway? Jigga jig la la tra ling ling- which is happy for yay! So excited! Hope I win! ๐
thePURPLEspirit recently posted: Glittery sandals from Shopatmajorbrands
Hey thePURPLEspirit!
I’m not sure whether to say you’re welcome or sorry. ๐ Heheh! And that’s the spirit – want versus need with the ‘need’ winning. ๐
I like your little song. ๐ Good luck in the draw!
I just stumbled across you blog and love it – I will bookmark it and return for sure.
I love this time of year. My favourite part is dressing my daughter up in her custom Christmas outfits with matching hair accessories and nails.
Hey Terri-Lynn!
I’m pleased to hear that you’ve enjoyed your visit so much! ๐ Please do stop by again as I update the blog daily.
I stumbled across your website looking for the OPI Muppet collection and now i can’t get enough of your site! I love it! Keep up the good work!! ๐
Hey Heather!
Thank you so much for your encouragement! ๐ I’m glad to hear that you love my blog so much!
It’s so nice, that you’ve finally chosen to open a giveaway, where everyone can have a chance to win. ๐ I myself live in Denmark! I’m sorry if my english is bad, but I’m not a native english-speaker as you can see. xD
I just looove the colour green..
Ty for the giveaway btw. (:
Hey Lis!
You’re welcome. ๐ Best of luck in the giveaway!
Awesome way to get us all started in the festive mood!
Did you know that December 13th is a really big deal in Sweden? (I’m Swedish btw). We celebrate St Lucia – the patron saint of light, and sing songs, eat saffron buns and try to forget how miserable it is to live in a country with 6 months of darkness each year ;D
Cecilia recently posted: 12 posts of Christmas: 1. Snowflake inspiration
Hey Cecilia!
No, I had no idea about December 13th! That’s quite interesting. What do saffron buns taste like?
(Haha, I like your sense of humour!)
Hey Mary!
It’s funny that you included Party Hearty by China Glaze in your giveaway because I stumbled upon your review of it while going through your older posts and have been trying to track it down ever since! I checked every store I know that sells CG where I live and even NailPolishCanada doesn’t have it. If I win the give away then I’m extremely lucky, if not then I’ll just have to continue searching for it online. Where did you get yours?
-C
Hey Candy!
Yeah, Party Hearty is realllly tough to track down in Canada! But if you have an American friend to help you out, I do know that they sell it at this one etailer: Victoria Nail Supply, but they only ship to the States.
I purchased my bottle when it first came out, so it was easily found on every major etailer – Trans Design was my favourite one back then.
Oh, I love Beauty and the Beast! Disney classics are one of my favourite movies to rewatch ^^ Shame they’re not as good as they used to be.
Thanks for the giveaway too ๐
Sharon recently posted: Look what arrived today!
Hey Sharon!
I sadly have to agree. They don’t make Disney movies like they used to. The classics were far superior than the new films released.
Awesome giveaway!
I’m really looking forward to this Christmas as it will be my 3 month old grandson’s first one. He just loves being held in front of the Christmas tree and watching the blinking lights. Wishing you a wonderful holiday!
Connie West recently posted: ASK Cosmetics Gigantic Festive Giveaway!
Hey Connie!
Aww…that’s sweet that it’s going to be your grandson’s first Christmas! Take lots of photos – they grow up fast! (It’ll be my nephew’s 2nd Christmas.)
Merry Christmas to you, too! ๐
This Christmas i cant wait to buy like a million gifts for my boyfriend and to be with my brother. it will be magical.
Hey viorela!
Wow, lucky boyfriend! ๐
Have a wonderful Christmas with your brother!
I loved your knitting post, I crochet, well, kinda, I can make scarves. My sister bought me a knitting book, Stich N’ Bitch and I can’t wait to attempt it!
Hey Jenny!
A woman I used to work with had that book, but back then, I was even more of a beginner, so I didn’t try anything from it. I may have to check it out again now that I can understand the terminology for the patterns.
Have fun!
Hi Mary!
I’m new follower and I love your giveaway! Mac, Sigma, Kleancolor, Burt’s Bees, EOS, NYX… All of those are brands that are not availabe here but I want to try them out! =)
Thank you!
Kvacka recently posted: Absolutely Alice effect
Hey Kvacka!
Welcome to my blog! ๐ YAY – I’m always glad to have a new follower. Hope you’ll come back and let me know what’s on your mind. I love interacting with my readers.
What a wonderful giveaway! I’ve been wanting to try out many of these brands but they don’t have them in our town.
I’m really looking forward to going to the beach for Christmas with my family. We haven’t gone in several years and I’m really looking forward to the warm weather and sitting out on the beach.
Ashley recently posted: Brielle’s Costume Wardrobe – Alice in Wonderland Fingerless Gloves Giveaway
Hey Ashley!
The last time I was at the beach with my parents, I was probably in diapers! ๐ Have a GREAT TIME!
Great goodies!
I just found your blog and I’m so glad I did both b/c it’s great & b/c I’m happy I made it in time for the give away.
I finished the Photoshop class I was taking today so I’m done with anything school-related until after the new year. Yay.
Hey Jen!
Now you can relax and enjoy the holidays! ๐ You deserve it after all that hard work.
Thanks for all of the hard work that goes into your blog! Party Hearty is so exciting!
April Brooks recently posted: Weekly Giveaway Roundup
Hey April!
And thank you for the encouragement! ๐
this holiday i’m looking forward to being with my family and enjoying all of the baked goodies
Hey Erin!
Have a wonderful Christmas with your family, and enjoy all those yummy treats, too!
This is such a great giveaway! What I love about Christmas where I live is that it is usually sunny and warm
Hey Susana!
Nice – I don’t think I’ve ever had a really warm Christmas. I’m in Canada, so we have had sunny and milder ones, but never ones that are hot like summer.
This holiday I’m looking forward to being done with classes and finals so I can finally have some relaxation a.k.a. swatching time ๐
I also can’t wait to be home with my family and see my dog ๐ ๐
This giveaway looks awesome by the way! I just saw your tweet about it.
Hey Holly!
Hope you ace all your finals! ๐
Wow, such a nice give-away!
This year i’m looking forward to making Danish Fried Cookies with my great Grandmother. She’s eighty years old, and broke her arm last week. Despite of this she managed to make Danish gingerbread cookies all by herself. I’m so proud of my grandmother.
Hey Johanne!
Oh no – I’m sorry to hear about your grandmother. I hope she’s recuperating okay. And, yes, she sounds like a trooper, so you should be proud of her. And, how awesome is it that you know your great grandmother? WOW! LUCKY!
Have fun making those cookies – they sound delicious, by the way!
This is giveaway is FABULOUS!!! I want Party Hearty soooo bad!! My favorite part about Christmas is all the beautiful lights everyone puts up! I love nothing more than driving around neighnorhoods looking at lights with my hubby ๐
Jeni King recently posted: Glam Polish China Glaze Electropop Giveaway!!!
Hey Jeni!
Yes, they are beautiful, and it’s wonderful to see how Christmas puts so many people in the festive-decorating spirit. ๐
You are so sweet and amazing to comment back to every single person!! ๐
Everyone’s comments are important. ๐ Of course I have to reply. Don’t want anyone to feel left out or ignored.