Works For Me: BACKWARDS DAY!

I don't know about you, but I've been looking forward to this!

Today is Backwards Day at Works-For-Me Wednesday.  Instead of sharing a tip that has worked for you, you'll throw out an issue or question that has stumped you (preferably not something like quantum physics, y'all).  Keep it short and keep it specific, and watch (hopefully) the suggestions come flooding through your comments sections. 

I have two of my own for anyone who would care to weigh in.

• Has anyone ever found a really good eyeliner that is actually smudge-proof?  Because I've been wearing make up for over 20 years, and I've never found one that stands up to my tough smudge standards.  I'm about to resort to a Sharpie marker! 
• Do you have any ideas for storing kitchen spray cleaner in an attractive way?  I don't like to keep mine under the counter, because I use it so often.  But keeping a bottle of 409 isn't exactly my idea of cute.  I was hoping one of you had come up with an idea for doing this cleverly.

Now it's your turn!  Leave a link to your WFMW Backwards Day post below.  The guidelines are the same as those in a normal week, so you first-timers please read through them.

1. Chocolate and Garlic (Vacation with young children) 2. PTT (Family out of sync) 3. Many Little Blessings (Your Favorite Gifts?) 4. Kandy (organizing children\'s room) 5. Autumn Daisy Studio (Chores for Kids?) 6. Capturing Today (Shoe Help?) 7. Mrs. Brownstone @ XBOX Wife (tipping) 8. Kacie (How to clean soap spills?) 9. Activities Coordinator (Extreme Makeover-Blog Edition) 10. Liza\'s Eyeview (easy recipe?) 11. phyllis (sleeping late) 12. Nap Warden (tooth brushing, help) 13. Kellyn 14. Beth @ The Natural Mommy (Toddler Choices) 15. Lori - Queen of Dirty Laundry (keeping 4yo busy) 16. FamilyBriefs (blogging) 17. Jill (marriage advice) 18. WorksForMom (Good Toddler Shoes?) 19. Melanie(school lunches) 20. Demeter (hurrying the dawdler) 21. FamilyBriefs (distracted 7yo) 22. Lady Why (Cracker Barrel biscuits?) 23. Grace For Gayle (Poopin on the Potty) 24. Choosing Voluntary Simplicity (Produce, E. Coli, Bacteria, and You) 25. MemeGRL (kids staying dry through the night) 26. Lori ~ Simple Life at Home (preteen emotional tidal wave) 27. Mommy Zabs- (My Bathroom Smells like a Urinal!) 28. Stretch Mark Mama (Grease Stains) 29. Karla~Looking Towards Heaven (making the top bunk bed) 30. Jes @ BeautyFromChaos (Chores for a 14 mo. old?) 31. Ewokgirl (Tasty vegetarian meals?) 32. Tea Party Girl (RSVPs and Hostess Gifts) 33. Charlotte (to homeschool or not to homeschool?) 34. Amy @ By His Grace (Indoor fun for Toddlers) 35. Melissa at Yesterday\'s Hopes(getting a child to sleep in their bed) 36. Lynnae (Pantry Organization?) 37. Mrs Pear (Home School Hopeful) 38. Julie (kids hitting) 39. OW (eye makeup remover) 40. Barbara H. (need help with quick meals and cleaning walls) 41. Chris (Digital Photos) 42. Smockity Frocks (Seasonal Clothes Storage) 43. Abel (Why You Shouldn\'t Stop Your Child From Crying) 44. everychapter (white sauce) 45. Veronica (Organize children\'s shoes) 46. Stacey (paper clutter) 47. Carrie (more children?) 48. Lindsey (Cats!) 49. Jordan @ MamaBlogga (indoor toddler games) 50. Where the Heart Is (kids\' clothing stains) 51. Lana G! CHRISTMAS GIFTS 52. My Twenty Cents Keeps Moving (scrambled eggs) 53. Duckabush Blog (Menu, Chores and Love) 54. ellen b. (Pay bills online??) 55. Stacy (Getting rid of the paci) 56. Michelle at Scribbit (asking for Halloween Ideas) 57. Mandy (toddler to sit still in church?) 58. Chrystal (Favorite Kid Lunches) 59. DebMomOf3 (sleep and potty issues) 60. Saph-blood stains 61. Need A Nap 2 62. Need A Nap 2 (cleaning gas stove, first posting) 63. Amy@P2P (monetizing your blog) 64. Macy (Teething help?) 65. Robin (organizing earrings?) 66. InfinityGoods (increasing web traffic?) 67. SAHMmy Says (Help! Breastfeeding Issue! 68. tina (1st time) 69. Heather Cotten 70. The Pumkin Patch (Potty Training) 71. Amy (treating stains?) 72. SINGFORHIM @ Real Life (Ugh, Dust!) 73. Sheila (rename my blog) 74. Jane(how much homework?) 75. Cindee (Where2Sleep?) 76. Nikki (out of control toys) 77. Marie(parenting help) 78. Jenny (Long term storage tips?) 79. Mommy-fied (Speech Therapy@home) 80. Debs(moving from London to Texas) 81. Robin (6-yr old sass) 82. chickadee (organizing coupons?) 83. Corrie (family scripture study help?) 84. Mummymac (Recipe please!) 85. Susan(MexicanRecipes??) 86. 3foldcord(Labor & Potty training HELP needed) 87. Mommy of Three (Frizzy Hair HELP, and leather couch cleaner ideas!) 88. Heather (carpet spot remover) 89. It Coulda Been Worse (Sweatypits!) 90. DramaMama(Camera) 91. Leigh (infertility & pregnancy) 92. Org queen (decluttering) 93. Elizabeth (clothes bugget HELP) 94. Zoe (teenagers rooms and own domain names) 95. Marcia (Christmas gifts) 96. Georgia Mom (long hair tips) 97. Peggie (painting) 98. carrie (product suggestions) 99. Milehimama (Kids and Fruit) 100. VerrySherry (sandwiches & heels?) 101. Jen (laundry woes) 102. Ami (baby monitors) 103. Katie (homework help sites) 104. Katrina (Web-safety software/filter) 105. Billie (play-doh/bike riding) 106. Multitasking Mama (kids interrupting!) 107. EmmyJMommy (PURGING) 108. Amy (Fruit gnats) 109. Goslyn (Mascara Woes) 110. Mary Ann(cleaning smelly Tupperware) 111. Naturemama (cloth pull ups) 112. At A Hen\'s Pace (nonstick cookware?) 113. Candace (digital pic org and hand me down org) 114. Slava Bogu (Non-toxic Cleaner) 115. Elena Menopause 116. Barb (Mops and Vacuums) 117. Becky (Home Management That Works) 118. Beth@sportsmomma (cleaning shower doors!!) 119. Becky (anger in children) 120. AmyG (ebay) 121. Mommin\' It Up (what\'s the best baby sling?) 122. Amy 123. Eva (Preschooler\'s Angst) 124. Princess Leia (baby stain removal) 125. Amy W (boy stink in bathroom) 126. Aunt Murry (In need of cleaning/laudry tips) 127. Amy (Pet Hair & Eye Shadow) 128. Girl Gone Wild (Candle Wax Removal?) 129. Elaine (grocery game) 130. Aunt Murry (Use this one...the other link is messed upIn need of Laundry and Cle 131. Gift of Green (Playmobil pieces/Ironing Organic?) 132. Janelle (Ink Stains)

133. jen (little toys) 134. Sasha (Flies) 135. Tina (Headaches/Migraines) 136. Summer (Help me potty train my FOUR year old!!) 137. Stephanie (kids picking up) 138. Tonsofsons 139. Ashley (cat litter) 140. Barbara (Christian resources dealing with menopause?) 141. The Not Quite Crunchy Parent (What to Do Instead of TV) 142. chilihead (mop wood floors) 143. Happy Momma (Blogginb Basics 101) 144. Shelly (sock matching) 145. Jennifer (organizing library books) 146. Lisa Kay (CVS Cards/Rewards??) 147. Neighbor Jane Payne (favorite Fall tradition) 148. Tonsofsons~ cheap christmas gifts 149. Jill (CDPJ) - Potty Training HELP ME!! 150. Veggiemomof2 (nail polish) 151. Kelli@GohnCrazy (I\'m PICKY!) 152. Clappy Shoes(Help for Small Bathroom) 153. Momma 2 Beans (Big Boy Bed) 154. Stewardship Living (going green) 155. Amy (Storing outgrown clothes?) (whoops) 156. T with Honey (curly toddler hair) 157. Kathy Days (family dinner recipes?) 158. Michelle(should I go to reunion?) 159. Tracy (log home or book suggestion?) 160. Lexi (potty training HELP!) 161. Missy (home management) 162. Melissa at Anxious for Nothing (Dirty Dishcloths) 163. Six In The Mix (microwave smell, math curriculum) 164. Kisses of Sunshine: How to Discipline AND remove toner 165. Rachel Anne (matching laundry scents? health insurance? 166. Mandi (handling sibling problem) 167. Robin (HELP me clean my shower...PLEASE!!! 168. Jamie (meal ideas for 20 people) 169. Amy (1st Birthday ideas) 170. Melissa (Tracking expenses) 171. madridmom (hot flashes) 172. Madridmom(bread storage) 173. Chappyswife (Sharpie removal) 174. Jeni (hanging laundry on the line) 175. Teresa 176. Dawn (Cleaning Mini Blinds) 177. Teresa (Bat Problems) 178. kel (baby STUFF to buy?) 179. Susanne 180. Tamara Cosby 181. Crystal @ Money Saving Mom (The Grocery Game?) 182. Innstyle Montana-GP 183. Texastanya (Allowance???) 184. Shannon M (finding babysitter) 185. Katrina in Wa. (sticky laundry and books) 186. Emily (Why?) 187. DHM (Fix Ugly ceiling tiles?) 188. Not the Queen (preschoolers and airplanes) 189. Mom (Anti-sexist kids books!) 190. Kayris (Keeping The Baby Entertained) 191. MooBeeMa (childhood diabetes) 192. Emily (#2: sour dish cloths?) 193. Kathy (chocolate for nausea) 194. Karen (eczema & toddler troubles) 195. Amyswandering (digital scrapbook, art set) 196. Carrie J ( Posting Links in Blog comments) 197. Ann\'Re (HELP! Mouthy, defiant child) 198. kathryn (crib to toddler bed) 199. Motherscribe (Where to put all that art work?) 200. Kathy (pretty storage for cleaners) 201. Kelli in the mirror (reusable grocery bags) 202. Catherine (cleaning a tub) 203. Beth@sportsmomma -help for dyslexia 204. Jenny from Chicago - Laundry Management 205. Melinda (baby alarm clock) 206. Melinda (potty training) 207. Andrea(blog and cleaning questions:)) 208. Janelle (potty training) 209. Paige (gaining weight) 210. Charity (boys getting pee on toilet) 211. Kim (disipline ideas needed) 212. monica (mysterious carpet stains) 213. Jenn (bathroom cleaning/organizing) 214. Lizzie( copywork? & books on CD--paying attention) 215. Jendi (pumpkins & knife marks) 216. Mo (pet supply & bread storage?) 217. Stephanie (Hospitality and Frugality) 218. Angela (Make shower grout white) 219. Kris at Wonder Mom (needs crockpot recipes and lunchbox ideas) 220. Andrea (teaching kids to blow) 221. Suzanne (deferred gratification) 222. Suzanne (tidy hats & mittens) 223. Kim - pink tinged clothes white again 224. Ann Kroeker (fast/slow-paced lifestyles) 225. Annie (getting dye off) 226. BRC Banter 227. Crafty Pumpkin (Picky Eaters & Complainers) 228. Tamara (Stains in Carpet) 229. Anna 230. Kara (Eggplant recipe) 231. Crystal @ Biblical Womanhood (Early Learning Helps?) 232. MommaofMany (sheets) 233. Alaina (toddler snacks & activities) 234. Amy@Sonshinecottage (schedules/routines?) 235. Lines From The Vine(Baby Gifts) 236. Courtney (Filet Crochet) 237. Sincerely Anna (pediatrician appt) 238. monica (mysterious carpet stains) 239. Amy (online time) 240. PinkJeweledCat (easy chicken noodle soup) 241. Louise (Need crockpot recipes!) 242. Shama-Lama Mama (R-E-S-P-E-C-T) 243. MamaLady (Nighttime pottying) 244. Kara (help brushing daughter\'s hair) 245. mopsy (Beer Cheese Soup recipes needed ASAP 246. Kris (storing/organizing little girls hairbands-use this link instead) 247. With an Angel on my Shoulder (natural cleaning) 248. Ang (picky eater) 249. Polly 250. Polly (BABY SLEEP!) 251. Seis (Bread Machine New or Thrift?) 252. Maricar at Keeping the Castle (Stove Cleaning Tips?) 253. Rhen- yestheyareallmine (drip pans) 254. Totallyscrappy (prayer/devotion) 255. Sarah 256. Sarah (Dishwasher smell?) 257. Mama Diaries (Thank You Notes) 258. Rebekah 259. Rebekah -- All Natural Laundry Soap -- Made by YOU! 260. Rookie Mom (Babysitting 101) 261. Straight Shooter 262. Alana (siblings sharing room) 263. Nadine (quilting stencil help!) 264. Robin Organization Baggies

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Comments

[Pass the Torch]

Sorry, Shannon. I'm stumped by your questions. But I'm really hoping you'll try the Sharpie and post a pic for all of us;)

[Beth @ The Natural Mommy]

Yep. I'd go with the Sharpie.

Hope my lengthy link description doesn't mess up your Mr. Linky. I'm not good at summarizing...

[Melanie]

Hmmm... you could find a cute spritz bottle and just put the cleaner in it. Something like those spritzers for gardening, maybe? Just be sure everyone knows the contents.

I am an eye pencil girl. It all smudges a bit, but the kind that requires an actual sharpener smudges less (as opposed to the twist up kind.) Cover Girl all the way. Cheap is good.

[Kandy]

as far as the spray cleaner goes...you can buy clear spray bottles and decorate them yourself. Have your children paint them, or just do something cute yourself. They also sell them plain or with some designs, but nothing really "cute". Personally, if I had mine out all the time and was worried about it not looking nice, I'd let my kids decorate it...but then, I have a very creative 11-year-old, and I have "art" from all 3 of my kids all over my house :)

[Kandy]

oh yeah...they also sell these things...they're covers for kitchen appliances and such (like toasters) and I know I've seen them in various sizes, so you might be able to find one that would attractively cover a spray bottle :)

[phyllis]

sharpie sounds good to me. after all, i don't wear makeup...well, almost never. i was going to suggest the same as the commenter above who said to buy plain spray bottles and decorate them yourself. or just plain bottles might be prettier than the big ol' 409 on the counter... i can't believe i'm in the first 20 this week:-)

[Pass the Torch]

Oh, um Shannon. Forgo my wicked thought about the Sharpie. You might go blind or something. I must be sleepy.

[Beth @ The Natural Mommy]

Oops, faulty link. There's a better one for ya, and I even managed an appropriate summary this time. :-)

[Kellyn]

I have some 409 on my counter in a cute spray bottle that we used to use for the cat long ago. It works well, and on one knows what it is!
I am not a makeup person, wear it maybe...a dozen times a year. I have found though that the non-twisting kind does work better!

[Dee]

I have had the same problem with eyeliner! What works for me is to dip a Q-tip in my Bare Escentuals Mineral Veil (I suppose any translucent face powder would work, but I've only used the Mineral Veil) first, then "line" under my eyes with it. Then I apply Revlon Colorstay liner on top and it stays all day! I use Urban Decay Primer Potion on my lids and I have read that it will work under the eye too, but haven't tried that yet!

[Tea Party Girl]

Ack! I'm doing something wrong. So sorry to clunk up Mr. Linky. Can't find the edit button either. I'll figure something out.

[Stretch Mark Mama]

What you need are eyeliner tattoos.

[Overwhelmed With Joy!]

Hmmm...can't help you with the eye liner question. I don't wear it.

As for storing kitchen spray cleaner in an attractive way, well we have to keep ours up out of the little guy's reach but we use a lazy susan (the round spinning thing) in one of our kitchen cabinets so it's easy to find and grab.

[Barbara H. @ Stray Thoughts]

I'm afraid I can't help with either one. I don't do eyeliner very well -- I don't have a steady hand at all! And my 409 stays under the sink. For a while there I was seeing ladies make cute little aprons for their dish soap -- maybe something like that would work for 409 as well?

[Dawn]

NO! I have never found eyeliner that didn't smudge - I'm so glad it's not just me, I thought I was makeup-handicapped or something! I'll be eagerly checking for someone to find a solution...um, other than Sharpie marker. ;)

[An Ordinary Mom]

I am not much of a make-up person, but I like my Clinique eye liner pencil.

[Dawn]

I can't help you on the eyeliner problem, and my suggestion for the spray bottles has already been mentioned. I think it would be cute to buy plain spray bottles and let the kids decorate them. I might to this myself.

[Michelle at Scribbit]

You could fill a perfume atomizer with 409 which would not only make it attractive but portable, for those hard-to-clean places on the go. :)

Kidding.

[Brooke]

What about something like this for your kitchen cleaner?

http://www.specialtybottle.com/index.asp?PageAction=Custom&ID=54

[Deb - Mom of 3 Girls]

Hmm, I can't really help with either of those - I wear mascara so rarely anymore and my idea of smudge-proof is remembering to not rub my eyes... ;) And I have disinfecting wipes looking extremely un-cute on my kitchen counter as well. I'll be interested to see what you find out though!

And hoping someone can help me with sleep and potty issues over at my place too... :)

[Amy]

I really like the idea of this...

[Robin Meaney]

Don't you know eye liner should be smudgy - that gives you smoky, sexy eyes and that look of a heroin addict. No real advice, sorry.

Lots of cleaners are so pretty that just putting them in a clear spray bottle might be pretty enough. Just make sure you know what they are somehow. Or how about wrapping the bottle with duct tape.

[Robin (the pensieve one)]

Put your cleaner in a squirt gun--then the kids can help! :)

[Robin (the pensieve one)]

p.s. My FIRST WFMW and I do it on "Backwards" Day...figures, lol.

[Smockity Frocks]

I was just going to comment that I like my eyeliner to look slightly smoky and smudgy, (yes, I was thinking of just those words!) and then Robin had to go and call me a heroine addict! Hmph! I'm kidding, but I really do use the eyeliner that has the little smudger on one end. I don't like the drawn line look.

Thank you, Shannon, for this WFMW. What a great idea!

[SAHMmy Says]

Great idea for backwards day! Looking forward to reading answers to your 409 question--I never thought of making this counter staple more attractive before!

[Robin (the pensieve one)]

Shannon, I'M AN IDIOT! Gosh, I can tell my brain is FRIED (my kitchen's under renovation...and I've been putting it back together the better part of the afternoon til NOW).

I accidentally linked to my main page, not the post itself...should I sign in to Mr. Linky again or can you fix it?

SOOooo sorry to screw up my first time (I reeally used to be smart...and then I had kids ;) ).

[Jane]

Hi,

I too had your problems with eyeliner and eye shadow. By the time I got to work it was gone! Recently though, I got some Mary Kay eye primer and now my eye makeup glides on smooth and seriously stays on even if I shower! Just as long as I don't scrub it stays on. Regular make-up remover does remover it though. This only works for the lids not the under eye liner.

[Rachel]

I finally found a smudge proof eyeliner and it's not tricky to use even tho it's liquid: Artliner by Lancome. Their mascara is great, too.

[SingForHim @ Real Life]

Eye primer is the way to go, unless you want to use liquid eye liner. Liquid doesn't smudge nearly as much. Personally, I like mine smudged, too.

As for the cleaner, I would be afraid to put mine in pretty bottles, because my children are so attracted to them. But have you thought about putting a hook on the inside of a cabinet or pantry door?

Good question.

[Sheila]

I love Lancome eyeliners. I've been using them for 17 years. Yikes. That's a long time.

[diatribal]

I use the Method Cleaners that you can buy at target. They clean our messes really well! They also come in attractive, clear bottles that have labels you can peel off. There are several different scents so you can pick a scent and color that you like. I keep them on my windowsill above the sink because I use it constantly!! Hope this helps. Good luck with the eyeliner too!

[JCK]

I'd go with the Sharpie. After all they come in those OH SO LUSCIOUS colors. And unlike your expensive eye liner brand, you never lose a Sharpie. They are ever so handy as they get such frequent use in labeling children's wear, ziploc bags, and lettering signs such as: I'M HAVING A TIME OUT. LEAVE ME ALONE. LOVE, YOUR MOMMY. And of course now...for eye liner! The New Sharpie - it's everything to every mom. Hey, you could even use it to label your pretty new spray bottle storage container, too!

[Flora]

I am a huge eyeliner fan! To prevent smudging...apply eye shadow (powder type) over it...it will stay on forever (almost!)

[heather]

You may have an oily eye area, which means that nothing will be 100% smudge proof for you. But I do recommend Mary Kay (I can send samples if you want to try before you buy.)

[trixie]

Good Morning,

I'm excited about this post, it sounds so much fun!

I use Revlon Color Stay eyeliner. While not perfect, it is the best I've found in my long search for smudge free eyeliner. Their lip liner works great too. I put lip balm on and use it for lipstick that actually stays.

Take Care,

Trixie

[carrie]

Great idea for this week--hope you'll host it again sometime!

[Amy @ Experience Imagination]

As for your unattractive spray bottle, you just need to accessorize it properly. How about an apron?

[Katie]

I have a Clinique eye liner. You turn the tube and more just keeps coming. I personally love the slate color. It's pretty good about not running; it even handles a quick nap okay.

[Goslyn]

I can't help on the eyeliner - I have the same problem myself. I find that what holds up best, actually, is to take solid eyeshadow with a little brush, wet the brush, and then apply the shadow as a liner. It still doesn't hold up great, though.

But - with regards to the spray cleaner - you can buy very pretty little glass or metal misting bottles at gardening stores. You could fill that bottle with your 409 and set it on your counter if you wanted. My only concern would be marking the bottle in such a way that people knew what was in it - especially since you still have little ones. Good luck!

[mummymac]

Shannon - I just HAVE to say about how frustrating it is when people take part in something like this but won't allow comments from people who use wordpress!! I presume it's the same for anyone who doesn't use blogger.

I mean I hate to moan but when we take the time to read the post and come up with an answer it's a real bummer if you can't post it!

I know Ellen B did a post on this here

http://happywonderer.wordpress.com/2007/09/25/wfmw-help-me-blogger-users/

I know it's not your problem - but with your following perhaps you could mention it.

Thanks for this WFMW it was a great idea.

[Eva]

All I can think is maybe hide it behind something? Or stick it in a more handy cupboard?

As for the makeup question, I don't use makeup, so I have no idea!

[Jenny from Mommin' It Up]

The best eyeliner is Mary Kay and it's only $10 which unfortunately is actually a good price in today's cosmetic world. It really stays on though - the reason I switched to it is because my beautiful friend always looked so gorgeous and my eyeliner was always drooping so low it looked like a moustache. So I had to ask her what she used and get some! I've got a good MK lady if you need one, you can order online and it's free shipping. :)

[Jennifer, Snapshot]

What a fun idea! Please do this again. Not only does it appeal to the bossy advice-giver in me, but I can search the areas in which I need help, and go over and read others' tips in the comments!

[Ann]

Socks, my husband and son now wear the same size socks, they are plain grey or plain black. My tip is to buy one of them plain weave socks ,the other one ribbed socks. It does save me from any confusion and the sock hider is revealed!

[Ann]

Socks, my husband and son now wear the same size socks, they are plain grey or plain black. My tip is to buy one of them plain weave socks ,the other one ribbed socks. It does save me from any confusion and the sock hider is revealed!

[Kathleen Marie]

Personally I like MaryKay's eyeliner. It doesn't smudge bad like a lot of others but it isn't smudge proof. Permanant liner might work if you can handle it. I have been tempted! have a great day!
http://www.permanentcosmetics.net/
http://www.permanentcosmeticsbytheresa.com/

As for the cleaner, since I have a grandbaby around it is out of sight until I use it.

[Shelly]

Someone else recommended Mary Kay and I would second or third that. I use Mary Kay liquid liner in brown. I like the one with a little brush applicator on the end of the wand. I wipe the excess off the brush on the inside of the tube, (like fingernail polish) and apply a very thin line on my eyelids. The key is the very very very very thin line of liner. Since it is liquid it is dark enough to do the job. I don't know if they have colors other than black and brown, but I think they have gray. I've been using it smudge free for over 10 years. It works for me.

[Happy Momma]

Wish I could help but I wear Estee Lauders eye liner, and sadly even for the price it too smears!

[Michelle]

I had the same issue with eyeliner. I went to see a makeup artist for "lessons" and shared my concerns with her. She used a "cake liner" (like a heavier eye shadow) to line my eyes. She applied it with a small angled brush. It stayed on really well. She said if I couldn't find cake liner (which I couldn't), that eyeshadow works just as well. So, now I line my bottom lids in dark brown eye shadow that I apply with the small angled brush. It's not a perfect solution -- but the result is HEAPS better than eyeliner for me. I don't end up looking like a racoon on most days. Also, for me, I really had to focus on not rubbing my eyes so much during the course of the day. HTH!

[Caroline]

While I scrolled through your comments I wondered if anyone did my trick. I saw it once but thought I would go ahead and type it again in case anyone missed it.

After applying eyeliner add a little eyeshadow on top. It will keep it there most of the day.

[Kelli]

I'm not cosmetcally inclined so I am no help with your first question, but what about taking a pice of fabric and sewing up a cute little bottle slip cover? You could sew in a piece of ribbon and tie that cute up around the neck so that you can still spray the bottle. Just a thought. :)

[Amy]

I am a basket lover, so my first thought for your spray bottle storage is to find a basket. Something tall, like a magazine basket, would completely hide the bottle yet make it easily accessible.

[Mandy Houk]

Mary Kay, Mary Kay, Mary Kay. No kidding. Plus, they have great colors.

(I have to confess that I do sell Mary Kay, but it's not a career--no pink cars in my future, baby--it's a ploy to get the good stuff for consultant prices!)

As for the spray cleaner ... I have no idea. I do keep my dish soap, diluted with about 2/3 water, in a pretty oil dispenser. But that wouldn't work for spray. Sorry!

[Kathy Days]

Negative on the eyliner Q.
Try a clear plastic squirter bottle for your 409. They usually have them in the trial-size section at Target.

[Michelle]

You could always have the eyeliner tatooed on. I'm just sayin'.

[Tracy]

No to the sharpie - what if you make a mistake? You'd have to live for it for a longggg time.

No ideas about the liner though.

I'd echo the pretty spray bottle that you fill with the 409. Though I'd label it clearly somehow. I can't leave spray bottles out due to the littlest liking to spray them!

[Megan]

I agree with the Clinique eye pencil, but get the kind that needs to be sharpened. I have one and it doesn't smudge much at all, and I rub my eyes all the time (darn allergies).

[Missy]

I love Mary Kay eyeliner and I make my own counter spray so I just buy a plain sprayer and print my own label.:)

[GiBee]

You know... I'm wondering the exact same thing about the spray bottle, and I'm surprised you haven't sewn (sp?) something for it!

As for the eyeliner ... Mary Kay has the best eyeliner. It does NOT smudge, and stays on all day long. I've tested just about everything out in the market and found this one to be the best. I use the Sable (which is now "Dark Brown") and love it.

[Melissa]

clinique all the way! they have this kind that is easy to apply too-not the self-sharpening kind. i love all of their products, eye liner included!!

[Jill (CDPJ)]

I really like Origins eyeliner. I've never noticed that it smudges much and it doesn't have a lot of the artificial junk other eyeliners do (which is vital for me because I have sensitive eyes).

They only suggestion I have for your second question is very unoriginal -- get a cute basket to set on the counter or something. I have them all over my kitchen to keep things handy but hidden.

And... I turned your WFMW logo backwards for the occasion... if you want to use it today, I can send it to you. Just let me know:

http://charmingdelightful.blogspot.com/2007/10/works-for-me-wednesday-backwards-day.html

[GiBee]

Oh my DEAR HEAVENS ... do not ... PLEASE ... DO NOT tattoo your eyeliner on.... ixnay the attootay ...

[Shalee]

Since you have actually spent time with me and realize that makeup and I don't really have a solid relationship, more of a topsy-turvy run-in now and then, I will refrain from pretending that I know a thing about it.

As for the sprays, I suggest that since you're remodeling your kitchen anyway, you could build in some cool pullout spray nozzles all around the kitchen. Or maybe not.

Go with the cute bottles that are color-coated to your kitchen. But for heaven's sake, remember what you put in them!

[Katrina in Wa.]

I hope you make a backwards day a semi-regular feature!!

[Teresa]

Oops! I didn't put the comment in the right place for #177, so it didn't appear. I re-did it correctly for #179. Sorry about that!

[Stacey]

Okay, I didn't read any of the other comments yet. I think I'll need like 2 hours to go through this WFMW post!!
I will tell you what I do for my all-purpose cleaner. First off, I use only Method brand - they work just as well (if not better imho) than all the others I have tried (409 included) and you don't need a mask to use them! Also, they come in nicely-shaped clear bottles with very attractive colored liquid inside. You could display it as it, but here's what I do: I soak the bottle overnight to get the label off and then I simply tie a coordinating color ribbon around the middle of the bottle (below where your trigger hand will hit). Voila - a BEAUTIFUL cleaning supply bottle full of safe-for-you-and-the-environment goodness!!!

As for the eyeliner - can't help you there, I am on the brink of a sharpie as well! Looks like I'll be reading your commenters to get some tips!

[MommyK]

Sometimes, in place of eyeliner, I use eyeshadow. Wet the tip of the sponge applicator, then dip it in eyeshadow. Apply to your lash line as if you were using eye liner. I've had excellent results with this method, and it also blends better than a harsh pencil line.

As for the cleaner...you could switch to a nontoxic cleaner like 7th Generation or make your own vinegar cleaner, and store it in a cute squirt bottle. I have one for misting plants I got at the garden dept in Walmart. Just label what's in the bottle for safety reasons!

I love this feature!

[MooBeeMa]

I have friends who had their eyeliner tattooed onto their eyes and they always look stunning! I don't wear eyeliner but would love to find a smudgeproof mascara someday!

[Lisa @ The Preacher's Wife]

This is a great idea Shannon..I'm bookmarking this one forever! :)

[Mary]

I see I'm a little late in recommending Mary Kay! LOL It really is the best. I rub my eyes a lot and never have smudges.

[Kathryn]

I have a hard time getting my eyeliner just how I want it. Here's a solution. Yes, it's smudge proof! I don't know if I'd ever go this route, but it would simplify a make up routine.

[Cris]

For the eye liner I use Avon's Glimmersticks. They are only @6 bucks and they work great for me! Now, be careful they have different eyeliners and I don't like their other ones, only the Glimmersticks.

You're on your own with the 409. I would say, buy a glass spritz bottle and paint it yourself.

[Ruth]

Hi Shannon, just dropping by and wanted to comment. I can't help much with the eyeliner, I wear cover girl eyeliner, becasue it goes on well, but by the end of the day it has smudged all around my eyes. But, I do know someone who actually had eyeliner tatooed onto her eyes :) I guess its one less thing she has to do in the morning!

[MsRebecca]

Ok Ok Ok.. Seriously, I have resulted in blackest black sharpie [kidding] I don't wear eyeliner anymore due to looking like I have been crying by the end of the day..

My son is addicted to [spraying] anything he can get his trigger finger hands on.. I'm looking for a way to camoflauge the bottles actually..["Mom!, Brandon sprayed out all my melon maddness again!"] *sigh*

Sorry, my suggestions sucked :(

[Amyswandering]

I'm a Mary Kay user too. It's not perfect, but better than anything else I've tried. It's a decent price, lasts a long time, and won't give you raccoon eyes.

[andrea]

I usually use Mary Kay eyeliner and have never really had a problem with smudging, but it does wear off if you touch your eyes alot. However, liquid eyeliner is making a comeback. I bought some from E.L.F. last week and if you can get it on straight (which takes practice!) it does not smear or come off until you wash it off. Good luck! :)

[T with Honey]

Spray bottle: Method had some cute spray bottles of counter cleaner last holiday season. The bottles were made with solid colored perl-like looking plastic. I picked up the green one and it looks kinda cute sitting there on the counter.

Eyeliner: I asked Kristen the Shoe Addict this question last week via email and she recommended the Make Up For Ever line. I have placed my order but haven't tried it yet. Should I let you know how it works once my package arrives?

[Jennifer]

I don't like looking at 409 bottles either, and I hate having to fish under the sink (with the childproof locks of course) to get it every time I need it. I bought a set of those pretty, fabric lined baskets at Joann fabrics when they were 50% off and have them on top of my refrigerator and on the counters... I use one of them by the sink to hold my 409, my fit vegetable wash, and my dish soap. You can still "see" the 409, but it looks so cute sitting in a pretty little basket. :)

[Carrie]

I'm ditto'ing everyone on the cutesy spray bottles and the tattoo'ing eyeliner...that's my next plan...I love a thick black eyeliner and all the places that do permanent cosmetics do a better job than I do on my own anyway..>LOL!

[Jendi]

Have you seen the cute little aprons they make for dishwashing soap bottles? Maybe you could make something like that for the 409 bottle.

[Angela]

This is a fantastic idea (backwards day)! I love the idea of getting to ask for help now too. Anyway I'd try to find a cute "water" spray bottle but just make sure that you label it to be careful. Good luck!

[Annie]

Thanks for doing this!

[MacKenzie]

I can't wear much eye makeup because my skin is sensitive but I am going to have to try some of the "cute bottle" suggestions.

[Tamara Cosby]

I use my eye shadow. The darker color put on with a wedged brush. May I suggest MAC? It's awesome!!!

[Tamara Cosby]

missed the second question so here's my answer: I have an antique slop bucket (I know that sounds gross but it's enamel and darling) on my counter and it holds my cleaner, dish soap, vegetable cleaner and I think that's it...but it's soo cute! So that works for me.

[Randall]

I didn't read all the comments but I think that putting 409 in a plain spray bottle was said. My mom would wrap the base in fabric and add a little trim that matches the colors in the ktichen with a hot glue gun - then you aren't looking at plastic.

Also, I use Cover Girl eyeliner (the kind that twists up and you don't sharpen). Never had a problem with smearing.

Hope that helps!

[anna]

crap! this is my first time posting a WWFMW and I forgot to add what my post was about when I linked it. well, I'm #237 and I'm needing serious help with finding a pumpkin recipe. I want to use the guts instead of the canned stuff. any help out there?

[New Diva on the Blog]

I like telescopic liquid eyeliner by L'Oreal. I got it as a freebie with a mascara, but find in works pretty well.

Method products aren't too bad looking the way they are, not real helpful on this one, sorry!

[New Diva on the Blog]

I like telescopic liquid eyeliner by L'Oreal. I got it as a freebie with a mascara, but find in works pretty well.

Method products aren't too bad looking the way they are, not real helpful on this one, sorry!

[Melissa]

This is a fantastic idea! Be sure to do it again:)

[Pink Jeweled Cat]

Uhm, yeah. I had already posted my WFMW post when I came and read your backwards day post. So I'm afraid I didn't follow the theme. *cries* I hope that's ok. Ta for now dahling!

[Jes]

I have to admit I'm loving this WFMW!! I think you should do a backwards WFMW once a month! I have so many more questions!!!

[Christine]

At the risk of sounding redundant, I heart Sharpie. I have used it for many many years and it has always been good to me - hope you find peace with your eyeliner choice ;-)

[Ornery's Wife]

Eye shadow and a slanted brush for eye liner, but I rarely wear it since it all makes my eyes itch and scratching them makes it smudge. Have several friends who had the tattoo thing done, and love it. But definitely NO to the sharpie!

Lots of great ideas for the spray bottle; I will look for the method product next time I am in the market!
TM

[Christal]

I've used Covergirl(the red eyeliner pencil) for like 25 years. YIKES! It's not *indelibly* smudgeproof, but it was better than anything else I've used, including higher-priced brands like Revlon, Almay, etc. Plus it's cheap and lasts a long time(you get 2 in each package.)It's also waterproof. I don't think I'll ever switch. I haven't tried Mary Kay, but honestly, I've never found a match to CoverGirl.
~C

[Cherie]

I recently had my liners tattooed after 45 years of trying make-up. It was done by a wonderful aesthetician using the manual method, is a nice reasonably thin line, and it stays. I look good after a nap, when I wake up (which says a lot!) and even if ill. I waited too long to do this. I'm pretty fair and my eyes fade away - but not anymore!

[Jenifer]

I think someone mentioned a metal spray bottle? You could tie a ribbon or a scrap of material around the neck of the bottle. (Not sure if it would stay on or get wet.) I'm thinking a black and white check for fall, red and white for Christmas,etc...

(I have a Method bottle on my counter)

I use Revelon Colorstay eyeliner and Almay i color (i no u luv the kute wording!). They both stay on for me but my skin tends to be dry.

[mostlytruth]

thanks for the WFMW! I have NO idea how to make spray bottles more attractive--unless you transfer to some nifty purchased bottle that matches your decor (just make sure it is properly labeled?!). That might look cute!!

As for eyeliner, I am the world's worst makeup adviser!

[Louise]

I LOVED this WFMW! Instead of getting just one tip per link, I got to read several or even DOZENS of solutions for each person's dilemma.

I also participated more: I commented on more blogs and even put up my own WFMW post. All in all, a real pleasure.

I hope you'll do a "reverse" again.