the bee’s knees

I was recently given an adorable jar of local honey, and took it home wondering what I could do with this golden jar of perfection. So I went searching and researching and several articles later, I was smitten with honey. I definitely took this golden magic potion for granted, until now! Yes, you might think its great drizzled on biscuits or a delicious sweetener for your cup of tea. I couldn’t agree more, but it’s also amazing for, are you ready for this, your face!

Before I go any further, I have to say, I am not claiming to be a doctor, herbalist or any other professional. I am strictly laying out my views, opinions and experience with this golden perfection. Please be cautious and aware of honey allergies, as well. There, I said it, and now all I can do is share with you my new appreciation for those little buzz bees.

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Here are are a few benefits of HONEY!!
  1. Skin protectant:  Honey has natural antioxidants, anti-fungal, and anti-microbes in it to aid in protecting your skin from environmental elements. It also helps heal wounds, rashes and fights off different skin infections. The anti-microbial properties speed up healing and act as a natural wound dressing.
  2. Facial cleanser:  Add a dollop of honey to a splash of water and the natural enzymes will create a mild antiseptic, that will create a super cleanser that will not strip your skin of its natural oils. It will leave behind a happy moisturized face!!
  3. Blemish Control:  An excellent spot control treatment for those pesky pimples. Use a small amount of honey on problem areas and leave on for 15 minutes, or more, then rinse off. The bacteria in acne and pimples will be zapped away by the antibacterial properties in the honey. With daily use, you will see great improvement in your complexion. I have!
  4. Anti-aging:  Wrinkles and fine lines caused by normal aging and many different environmental elements are visibly lessened from the amount of moisture the honey provides and leaves behind on your skin. Honey has been proven to increase the skins production of collagen and allowing for improved elasticity, therefore creating more vibrant, youthful skin.
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It’s very important to use only Raw Honey on your face. Raw honey is honey that has not been heated, pasteurized or processed in any way, it’s simply, just honey! It’s a great idea to use local honey, which is what I would recommend. Stay clear of most grocery store honey, most have been pasteurized and what is left is simply a sweetener.
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Want an amazing facial mask? Slather honey all over your pretty face and let the golden magic potion do its job. Let it sit for 15 minutes, or more. I like to apply the honey and let it sit while I get something else done. When I’m ready to rinse I simply splash my face with water and the honey is easily washed away. I recommend finishing it off with a little extra boost by moisturizing with some coconut oil. Try it once and you will definitely fall in love and see improvements in your skin. Honey really is, the bee’s knees!!
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her style | shan

herstyleshan_5From time to time I’ll be featuring women whose own personal style inspire me. I am kicking off the series with Shan – a fabulous mother, entrepreneur and the beautiful talent behind our wonderfully “sweet” posts on Wednesdays. Shan’s style very much reflects her personality – adorably friendly, fun and a little sassy. Her closet is stocked with classic prints (stripes, dots, leopard) and bold color that she can easily mix and match. She recently rediscovered these multicolored pumps and wondered why on earth they have not been worn more. The leopard with the tie dye shoe is a smart mix of pattern and that touch of berry pink keeps it light and youthful. Best part about this look – every single piece can effortlessly be worn in many other combinations.herstyleshan_1 herstyleshan_2 For those of us who live in true winter temps (makes us tougher, at least that’s what I heard) this is the time of year to shop for coats. Being able to finish your look could not be more affordable with clearance racks boasting 75% off or more. Shan’s leopard outerwear was scored for less than $15 at Old Navy last year and it will remain a closet staple for years to come.herstyleshan_3 It was lightly snowing during this photo shoot which resembles lint balls and dandruff more than pretty snowfall.  Of course as soon as we wrapped up the magical feel good snow began.herstyleshan_7|WEARING| leopard coat similar/Forever 21 navy top/gold necklace similar/H&M pants (these are typically available in more color options in the store, they stretch considerably – make sure they are nice and tight when purchasing)/multicolor pumps similar and similar/berry handbag similar

brandyjsig

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rocket mascara giveaway! (closed)

mascaraWe have been loving Maybelline’s Volum’ Express The Rocket Mascara and want one of you to experience lash explosion as well!  If you are into smoother, bigger, no clump lashes follow these 3 simple steps for your chance to win.

1.  Leave a comment on this post (must include email).  You can simply say “hi”, tell us a beauty secret or list your rap sheet.  We just want to hear from you.

2. “Like” Pretty Plain Janes on Facebook.

3.  Tweet, Instagram or Facebook linking to this giveaway.  Be sure to tag or mention @prettyplainjanes so we know you linked the giveaway.

Giveaway is open to US winners only, you have until Thursday, 02/21/13 at 11:59PM EST to enter.  Winner will be contacted via email and will have 72 hours to respond or another winner will be selected.

Good luck and Happy Friday!

WINNER!

Congrats to Kellie Rose Wilson!  Thanks to all who entered the giveaway!

Posted in Giveaway | 18 Comments

our valentines

maxeyvdayYears Together: 3.5

First Date:  Shared wine & pizza in Lexington, KY (midpoint of a road trip).

She loves his kind eyes.

He loves her lips.

Spending Valentine’s relaxing at home with Scraddlebug (and Cinderelly).

clydevdayYears Together: 8

First Date: Dinner and Comedy Club.

She loves his strong arms.

He loves the way her lip curls when she smiles.

Valentine’s date night: Dinner & Avett Brother’s Concert.

rammels

Years Together:  9

1st Official Date: Wrigley Field, Reds vs Cubs (Redlegs won)

She loves his smile.

He loves her legs.

Celebrating Valentine’s Day with Jettie and pizza.

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one for me, one for you

Happy Valentine’s Day Eve!!

Last Valentines Day Josh and I decided on a quiet date night at home.  I locked myself in the bathroom for a few hours and got ready like we were going out, while he was busy in the kitchen making dinner and transforming our quaint kitchen into something a bit more romantic.  To me, sometimes these are the very best date nights.  No waiter rushing you out of your table when you’re done eating, no loud distracting table nearby, and you don’t have to pay $9 each time you want to refill your wine glass.  We sat in our little kitchen, talking about anything and everything.  So simple, but so perfect.  After dinner, true to form- I wanted something sweet.  What better way to end a night than with two pretty little cupcakes?

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Chocolate Cupcakes For Two:  (Recipe adapted from An Edible Mosaic)

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon natural unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/8 heaping teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/16 teaspoon salt
  • a pinch of espresso powder (can be omitted, but not recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil, or other neutral-flavored oil
  • 3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350F, and put two pretty liners in a muffin tray.  Whisk together dry ingredients, then add wet ingredients being extremely careful not to over-mix!   (When baked goods are over-mixed they become more dense and lose that awesome, light, fluffy, heavenliness- so don’t do it!!!)  Divide the batter between the two liners and pop them in your oven for 18-22 minutes.  Always test by inserting a toothpick before removing them from the oven.  A clean toothpick means they are good to go!

Once your cupcakes are cooled you can top them with frosting- or if you dont have any on hand and don’t feel like whipping some up simply sprinkle them with powdered sugar and enjoy!

Whether you are spending Valentine’s Day on the town or on your couch- treat yourself to something sweet!

XO,

shansig

Posted in something sweet | 2 Comments