Shops I'd Love to Call My Own...

In an effort to wrap up some of my finds from Brasil, I've decided to feature the two stores of which I wish were available in the States: O Boticario, and Contem 1g. The first is a shop which is a bit reminiscent of the Body Shop--carrying various cremes, lotions and sprays, a wide range of fragrances and a limited line of makeup. It was in every mall, and every shopping district--if not once, then twice!

Since it was nearing Valentine's Day when we visited, every store front featured a romantic themed product, and I was lucky enough to get my hands on a few of them. Mom received some perfume, and I grabbed the Beijo body mousse (it's as light as marshmallows, and has a vanilla-ish floral scent to it), as well as the Kiss Me fragrance which has a similar yet more intense scent. After searching online, I'm finding that although this is a tried and true Brazilian company, they are starting to expand into Australia and possibly the US. I could only be so lucky!

Cosmetics-wise, Contem 1g was another brand unique to the country, which offered the feel of a less showy MAC counter. The majority of their packaging is black, with a few exceptions when it came to a limited compact or mineral line. Although I was completely turned off by the way in which the makeup artist applied blush to my poor face ("more bloooshy?"...NO!), I was still able to make off with at least a couple of items to my liking. That of course wasn't before the hubs laughed at my clown cheeks for a good five minutes.

A Batom Color Effect Lipstick in Natural (which in my opinion is more rose-inclined), is moisturizing and doesn't ask for an application of lip balm beforehand:

Creme Blush in Rosa Cintilante. I am so weak around non-powdery blushes--I think they can go a long way to make you appear years younger:

Oh, and one little bonus item! Non-makeup related, I found the most adorable store in a complex where all of the shop keepers featured local artists. Religious art and jewelry is totally my thing (one look at my house, and you'll know what I mean), so when I spotted this keychain I knew it had my name all over it.

Well literally, it has Mary's name all over it, as it's various versions of the Miraculous Medal--a medal that was created by St. Catherine after being visited by the Blessed Virgin three times within the year 1830. One thing I love about my faith is the fact that so many things we exhibit and show on the outside, are symbols of how we are feeling in our hearts. This in particular is a reminder of the graces we may have, if only we ask. Apparently I need a lot of reminding, as there are five of the same medal on this one :)

So, two questions for you lovely readers: What are some shops that you desperately wish were located where you live, but aren't? Also, are there religious items that you can't seem to get enough of?