They put WHAT in my makeup?!

"If you can dream it, you can do it." — Walt Disney

Beauty: Navigating the world of makeup can be like deciphering a beauty code, especially when it comes to the buzz around clean versus organic cosmetics. Clean makeup, this catch-all term, lacks a concrete definition, leaving it up to brands and individuals to interpret. Think of it as a beauty umbrella covering everything from synthetics to plastics and petroleum byproducts. 

And here's the plot twist: those "clean" makeup brands you spot at Sephora? Yeah…they're not exactly au naturel. 

Synthetics sneak in to cut costs, boost profits, and amp up product performance. Now, let's talk organic. To earn that organic badge, makeup brands need at least 70% organic ingredients, and if they sport the USDA Organic Seal, it's a whopping 95% organic.

But wait, there's a twist within the twist. Organic certifications can cost a pretty penny, so not every genuinely organic product rocks the certification label. Sneaky, right? So, how do you know what you're getting? Check the fine print, my friend.

Parabens, petrolatum, PEGs, BHA, BHT, phthalates, talc, formaldehyde, fragrance, DEA, triclosan, and those sneaky siloxanes or silicones – they're the villains linked to skin irritation, endocrine disruption, and potential health hazards.

Want a beauty routine without the drama? Opt for makeup free from these nasties and throw in some organic goodness for good measure, like the ones listed here.

Your skin will thank you for the fresh and fabulous upgrade!

Tech: Guess what? The latest Apple Watch is doing the vanishing act from store shelves, and it's not a magic trick! 

The White House decided to sit this one out, letting the US International Trade Commission have the final say. So, why the disappearing act? Well, it turns out Apple's bestselling smartwatches, including the Series 9 and Ultra 2, got the boot due to some patent drama with medical maestro Masimo.

Now, the clock's ticking for Apple as it files an appeal to flip the script. They're not just sitting around – oh no! They've pulled the watches off the virtual shelves, and Apple Stores are looking a bit emptier without the latest wrist candy. The cheaper Apple Watch SE is still hanging out, unscathed by the ban.

But wait, there's more! Apple's not giving up without a fight. They're cooking up some legal and tech wizardry, even thinking of giving the Series 9 and Ultra 2 a snazzy makeover for U.S. Customs approval. In the meantime, they've asked for a timeout on the ban until Customs can check out the facelift plans by January 12.

And why the fuss? Turns out, Apple's accused of playing fast and loose with a pulse oximeter patent – you know, the tech that reads your blood-oxygen levels. Masimo, the patent holder, is saying, "Hold up, that's ours!"

While Masimo's CEO thinks Apple's been a bit cheeky, these two have a history of patent ping-pong. Apple's made promises to bring the watches back ASAP, but only time will tell if the ITC and the redesign play nice.

It's a tech showdown, folks – and in the world of smartwatches, this one's stealing the spotlight! 🌟

Investments Worth Watching 

What do you get when you marry interior design inspiration with the ability to buy the products of the layouts you love and hire pros to help you get things done? 

You get Houzz.com which has become is a guilty pleasure for more than a few of us.

They’re not new to the online world, but they’ve been rocking it with more than $613 million raised in funding.

💪 What they do: Houzz stands as a virtual hub catering to home remodeling, architecture, interior design, decoration, landscaping, and home improvement enthusiasts, all within the realm of online excellence.

📅 Founded: 2009

🤑 Funding: $613.6 million

Get Rec’d: Podcast

We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle

Hold on to your hats, folks! Glennon Doyle, the powerhouse, has teamed up with her wife Abby Wambach, and sister Amanda Doyle to cook up a podcast that's nothing short of motivational magic – enter "We Can Do Hard Things." 

This show doesn't beat around the bush; it tackles life's challenges with a big, bold, and honest approach. Warning: you might need a tissue handy because these discussions can trigger some serious cathartic moments.

Picture this: parenting escapades, health and wellness adventures, and spicy chats about sexuality – it's all on the table! And the guest list? Oh, it's like a who's who of awesomeness – Dolly Parton, Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey – just to drop a few names. They spill the tea on their own stories and experiences, making each episode a wild ride through the landscape of life.

Now, fair warning, this podcast doesn't shy away from the heavy stuff. Personal traumas? Yep, they go there too. It's an emotional roller coaster, but guess what? It's like a virtual hug for anyone out there facing the ups and downs. "We Can Do Hard Things" is not just a podcast; it's your go-to squad for navigating life's twists and turns with a side of laughter and solidarity.

😋 MMM, Yummy! 

Can you believe that it’s almost the new year? How about sending off the 2023 with a few more December-ready drool-worthy recipes?

Take a look at these 31 different recipes that cover everything from breakfast to dessert. 

• Upside-Down Bananas Foster French Toast Bake 

• Apple Cider Hot Toddy

• Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups

• Pistachio, Coffee & Brown Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies