I Wanna Work For Judd Apatow

hola!

2011-10-05T00:44:00.000-04:00

I'm still alive!!!
But I'm on the other side of the world where blogspot is blocked :(
Can only get on once in a while through a proxy server.
gotta figure out how to come here permanently!
How is everyone??? Drop me a note here or there!!! :D

Today someone talked about blogs...

2010-10-08T15:57:00.003-04:00

Then I remembered that I had one...
Then I realized that I missed it...

P.S. add me on facebook so u can send me random msgs about (insert random topic of choice): dan(dot)tao(at)utoronto(dot)ca
Beware of other Dan Tao's that are impostors trying to steal my identity!
Either that or they just have the same name as me...

Currently digging...

2010-03-15T01:20:00.006-04:00

1. The Color Purple.
Never seen the movie...but sure loves the shade for makeup...

I find purple to be a universally flattering color for all skin tones.
Unless it's too frosty...
In which case you'll look like a whore.
Oh sorry, that sounds degrading...
I meant prostitute...in which case you'll look like an inexpensive prostitute...

Anyyyyyhoooo...
So being one that always has go the extreme, I put on: purple eyeshadow, purple lip gloss, and purple shirt to match.

Dang, if only I had some purple blush... :(

2. Velcro Hair Rollers
Look how big my head is!!!! :D

I meant the volume of my hair...
Well, I may have gone a little overboard.
So to avoid too much poof horizontally, but not enough vertically (aka. The Mad Hatter look)...

... try lifting your hair up vertically as you wrap it around the roller.

Do this when your hair is semi-dry, then let it air dry while you do your makeup.
Creates the kind of volume similar to that of a salon blow out!

I'm sure no one has made this discovery before me, so...
You're welcome! :)

3. Friends Who Give Me Things

Nono, I'm just kidding... I like all my friends!
Even the ones that don't give me things (Just not as much as the ones that do...).

Right, so some of my friends gave me a gift voucher for a bartending class.

Coz it's one of those: Things-I-always-say-I'm-gonna-do-but-never-really-do...things.

Like "Go on a road trip"
"Learn salsa dancing"
"Read a book"
"Finish reading a book"...etc.

I'm sure you've all got a list of your own.
Well, start crossing off that list!!!
Coz ACTUALLY doing it, is so much better than TALKING about doing it!
Who would've thought...

(Don't get too excited, it's all fake booze we use)

I think I'm gonna take the full bartender course, and hopefully become one too!

But let me just tell ya, bar tending is NOTHING like I thought it would be!
There are so much skills required, it's not even funny! Scary is more like it...

On the final exam, everyone will be judged on speed, accuracy and knowledge... and flare.

The teacher wanted us to learn to pour drinks on our heads...

I just wanted to learn how NOT to knock things down...

But shhhhh, don't tell my future employer that!
I make you free drink! How bout a Sour Apple Martini? :D

Ok ok...That's just water with food coloring... XD

I cutted me hair!!!

2010-03-08T23:58:00.004-05:00

Something I haven't done in more than a year....

Goodbye split ends so bad that it looks like my hair is growing hair...
So long hair so long that it almost covers my a...
Ahem...rear...end...area...

Dammit! It looked a LOT better before, when the hairstylist blow dried it :'(

It was so luscious and full of volume that I was a little turned on...yes, by my hair...
Ain't no way in hell I can replicate his methods tho... :S

Ugh... just screams FLAT now -___-

A watercolour sky recommended Maya Hair Salon in Korean town on her blog. I thought her hair look too effing awesome, so i went there too!
Best $25 hair cut ever.
No...best hair cut ever!

I heart other bloggers :)
(ya know, when their recommendations work out well for me :P)

Oh, HEY my dearest cyber gal pals! :D I'm still alive!!!!
I've missed y'all! Oh. So. Much!

Forgive my lack of replies as I've been busy movin' n stuff...
Turns out what bit me (which led to an infection, which then almost led to my ultimate demise!) were bed bugs!!!

Having bed bugs...Possibly the worst f-----g experience ever...

In the words of Rachel:

"It's like there's rock bottom,
then 50 feet of crap,
then me"

Yeah...that about describe the feeling of having bed bugs...

P.S.
I boiled all my possessions, and now sleeps in a tent... -___-

But check out ma new hair!!! :D

"DO panic" (coz it can save your life)

2010-02-16T05:53:00.009-05:00

As well as Web MDs...

Before I get into the main story, I'd like to say that I'm not an optimistic person.
When shitty things happen, I am 100% incapable of seeing the upside of it...the silver lining... the opening of doors or windows or cupboard draws...blah blah blah.

So the only positive outcome that I can associate with a negative experience, is the ability to educate others...to share my newly gained knowledge in hopes of helping my my fellow man (and woman) to avoid similar experiences.

Excuse the cheesiness.
I promise there won't be anymore... so read on.

A little background story:
In the past month, I was bitten 5 or 6 times by an unknown insect.

Aside from the fire burning itchiness, I developed cellulitis from the latest bite.

Cellulitis is a skin infection...and to echo Wikipedia: No, it is unrelated to what's on a celebrity's butt in the tabloids)
It's possible that my scratching caused bacteria to enter the blood stream, or sometimes repeated exposure to insect bites can cause infection to develop (I read that somewhere).

I didn't recognize the signs of infection, and tried to wait it out (or tough it out like we're so often taught)
Though I shouldn't really blame myself...just hours before landing in the emergency room, I went to see a doctor.
In hindsight I'm surprised he couldn't diagnose the infection because the signs were pretty obvious. Or at least warn me about the possibility and what to watch out for!!!

The main clue that he missed (C'mon! this is like Medical 101) is the RED STREAK.
Now this is where I credit the Internet for educating me and possibly saving my life.

While browsing Yahoo answers for insect bite related posts, I read a line somewhere that said "if a red streak develops, seek medical help ASAP"
That line caught my eye, so the moment I started to notice a slight red streak I went to the above said doctor.
Who despite my pointing out that there might be a red streak developing, passed it off as nothing (tsk tsk tsk).

Some symptoms that I had but didn't recognize as worrisome (but are signs of infection, so take note):

- Rapid increase in size of the swelling (from the bite)
- Numbness of the arm
- Slight feverish
- Weakness
- Barely noticeable red streak extending from bite site
- An overall ill feeling

Still trying to be the child that never cried at needles, I struggled to suppress the increasing panic that I felt and just tried to walk it off.

(All those complements about what a "brave little girl" I was must have gone to my head...)

After a trip to the grocery store and eating some ice cream, I thought I was better because the firery itch (to a point that I desired amputation) was gone...
When I finally took off my jacket, I saw that the bite has doubled in size in the last 1 or 2 hours.

The reason it doesn't itch as much was because my arm was completely numb, and and looked like it was about to give birth...
The previously barely noticeable red streak has grown to be about 6 inches long and 2 inches thick.

Is it finally time to panic?
I think so.

Thanks to a dear friend with a car and an unusually empty Emergency Room, I managed to get medical attention on time.
Because within half an hour spent at the waiting room, the red streak already progressed 3 or 4 inches.

At the time I didn't realize how serious the situation was.
Only after being informed by the doctor and doing more Internet research, did I realize that "red streak" was headed up my arm and straight towards the heart.
I probably would have went to sleep, had I not known to look for a red streak.

Given the state I was in, tired, weak and numb; I very well could have chosen to sleep.
Because I didn't feel any significant discomfort, I wouldn't have know to PANIC had it not been for the passing glance at Yahoo Answers (Thanks to whoever wrote that btw!)

(In medical term the red streaks are called Ascending Lymphangitis. Aka. Blood Poisoning. "Since lymph flows toward the center of the body, the signs of infection progress in the same direction. The obvious danger being the infection heading toward the heart." Quoted from here)

I found out tonight that had I not receive treatment on time, and slept through it instead...
Let's just say...Yikes.

The point I'm trying to make is that a healthy dose of panic is necessary sometimes.
More appropriately, that timely medical treatment is crucial.
But knowing when to panic, so you know when to seek help, may be the most important thing here.
Knowledge is the key, but your internal instinct (the knot in your stomach that says: PANIC!) can be a sign also!

And hey, if you're a really laid back person that lives by the motto "Chill, it aint the end of the world, man." and just doesn't like to panic (aka. you're high)...then pretend.
Putting on a show for the doctor and nurses to see, can make sure you aren't ignored, and people might take you more seriously at the ER.
Because sometimes if you "look" fine, you will get left aside until it's almost too late.
Just trust me on this, I learned this the hard way a couple of years ago.

Putting on a brave face is soooooo 1958...

Anyhoo, I had to get antibiotics through an IV for an 4 days straight (I couldn't shower or bend my elbow :S), and continue to take antibiotic pills orally for 7 more days.
As of 12am today, I'm finally off antibiotics... Yay!

But appearently, once you contract cellulitis, it is more likely you'll get it again.
So if I get bit again, the same thing might happen, but antibiotics might get less effective. (Not sure if it's true, but if so...Crap!)

Except next time, I'm kickin' and screamin' my way to the ER the minute I see anything.

(Just in case, check out some tips on preventing infection from insect bite: here. Coz not showering for 4 days... sucks.)

Revlon, J&J Warehouse Sale

2010-02-16T01:29:00.004-05:00

For those in Toronto, there's a Revlon and Johnson&Johnson Warehouse Sale going on right now.

So go while you still gots the chance fool!!!
And buy somethin' for me too!!! :P

(I found out from another blogger here...thanks yo! ;D)

Please excuse my unexplained hiatus...
Let's just say, that just when I thought the nightmare was over, I ended up in the Emergency Room...
So yeah, I have a good reason to be away -___-

But no worries, I don't got no terminal illness and I'm still alive...
Just frustrated and annoyed.

Sigh...

Life is full of disappointments

2010-01-29T00:12:00.018-05:00

Yes!!!! First time in days that I was able to sleep through the night!

Feelin' gooooood... ^__^
Good enough to do a new post...
Good enough to trash talk some products...
haHA! I'm back baby! *Cackles*

Life is indeed full of disappointments...
But people hate it when you whine!!!
What with Haiti and all the other shitz that goes on in the world, someone will surely tell you to "suck it up or go f**k yourself"...
Or is that just me? O__O

Fortunately! I can let out my frustration on beauty products and their affiliated companies! :D
Because that's not whining, nono!
That's helping others become informed customers, and make intelligent choices with their money. Especially in this kind of economy! ;)

And I'm nothing if not altruistic and eager to help...XD

So...I've got beef with:
1. Garnier Nutrisse hair dye in BLACKberry:

When I first used it (about two months ago?), my hair turned out like this...

After about a month, it looked like this...

You probably can't tell, but I'm also booing in the picture.

Umm...may I just point out outright blatant lie here:

No...I don't expect it to actually be "permanent"...

But...is it too much to ask that it last longer than a 2 dollar hair-spray-in-a-can?!?!?

Sigh...

The next item that has let me down (like a disappointed parent whose child decided not to pursue a stable career in accounting...or medicine!) is the Missha PERFECT COVER bb cream.

"Perfect Cover"? I'm still looking for a fine print that says "just kidding..."

Because this thing has terrible, TERRIBLE coverage!

I find that the general consensus for this product on the web is positive.

But for me, the complaints are endless...

- It makes me ashy

- Difficult to blend

- Makes me greasy and shiny (not a common occurrence for me)

- Damn pump always pushes out too much product

- Cost me almost $30, and it's non-returnable (I got it from my local H-mart)

Any lawyers here??? What are the grounds to sue for misleading advertising? Coz these companies are lying through their teeth!!!

Phew! That felt good! My therapist was right... sometimes venting and raging is good for you! :D
Just kidding...
I can't afford no therapist after throwing my money at all the trash above...

On an unrelated note...

Emily at Beauty Inside and Out did a tag that I thought was just too much fun!

So, here are my pictures for the "Once Upon a Time" Tag:

Man, I could not smile normally for the life of me!

Haha... some things never change...

Now I TAG TAG TAG all of you!!! Baby pictures are the funnest!!!!

Missed me? Yes? No? Meh.

2010-01-27T00:29:00.009-05:00

I'm not feeling well...
Not well at all...

Permission to take sick leave...
Permission granted.

No, my obsession with makeup hasn't diminished.
I'm just too plagued with physical ailments to blog these days. Damn you earthly body!!!

Nothing new with me on the makeup front anyway... I've just been eating, reading Asian magazines (Thanks J!), and listening to Adam Lambert.

I'm so slow on things... I think he was on American Idol some while ago?

Anyway, I stopped watching American Idol after Clay Aiken lost... I was convinced the show was rigged.

So, I'm just discovering his music now. Obsessively listening to them over and over again...So damn catchy!

I want a snake cane just like his! :D

How HAWT is he?!?!?! Someone call the fire department, coz he's gonna start a fire he's so hot!!! :D

Drool...

And boy does he know how to put on a show! (Watch his AMA performance)

Not to mention, a man who knows how to use makeup! I could use a tip or 2 from him! :D
YAY to bringing back glam rock, and eyeliner for men!
Sexayyyyyyyyyyyyy! *rawr* ;P

Pop Quiz: What's better than the Holidays???

2010-01-15T00:12:00.016-05:00

When it's OVER of course!!!

Ahhh....Post-holiday sale season...
A season to be treasured...
A time to be rejoiced...
A rare and precious moment when I can justify buying all kinds of stupid crap I've always wanted...

BS Sales Lady- "Just so you know, the sales items are 3 for $15, plus 10% off with the Body Shop card!"
Me- "Hmm...What if I just want 1 or 2 items?"
BS Sales Lady- "Sorry, it has to be in 3s..."
Me- "Oh fiddle poop...I'll just take these 6 then!"
(Note: BS stands for the Body Shop...)

Aren't they beeeeeeautiful????
Sigh... If I die today... I die a happy gal...:DDD

Frankly, I've been lemming their holiday makeup since forever!!! *Pat self on back for ability to resist til now*
I'm tempted to go back and get these 3 as well...

What should I dooooooo??? Gahhhhh :S
I know what you're thinking, and like my mother always says:
"Why can't you spend your money sensibly? And buy things you NEED, like clothes or shoes????"

Mehhhhh....I could live without clothes or shoes...

Things I cannot live without:
1) Freedom to laugh as loudly as I want
2) Freedom to sing and dance as badly as I want
and
3) Freedom to buy makeup on sale

Hmm...I guess in my ideal world, I'd be running around naked and bare feet, singing and laughing...
o___O

Anyway, now for the "Stupid Crap" portion, as promised:

$10 mini digital camera. So I can keep spying in drugstores, and piss off more nosy middle-aged women. (Confused? Read this.)

And a $4 "An Insult a Day" Calendar:

It was between this, or the "Word a Day" Calendar...

In the end, I chose this because I really DO need to sharpen up my insult skills.
I'm at an age when I can no longer retort with "Your FACE is stupid/ugly/phycho (ie. insert insult thrown at me)"...

Here are some good ones I plan to use:

Ok, maybe not this one...

Other Daily Calendars worthy of mention (pictures courtesy of my new spycam):

"Leave getting laid to chance? Ensure Sexcess!"
Awesome stuff... XD

Hmm... Methinks I need this...

Urban Decay 75% Off Sale

2010-01-13T23:30:00.001-05:00

Urban Decay's having a 75% off sale on HauteLook. (Use code: HL2010 for another 10% off $25+ purchase)
Which ends in about 35 hours (as of now, Jan 13 11:07pm Eastern Time)

I don't plan on getting anything, coz I'm no fan of UD.

But I'm guessing it's a big deal to those who are, so I figured I'd share this piece of news.

If you're a member of HauteLook, you probably know about it already...

If not, feel free to join using my invitation here.

I've never invited anyone before...hopefully it works...

Now that I shared something good with you...you're not allowed to hate me when I tell you that:

I won another giveaway! :P

And the prize came in yesterday, thanks so much Anna!!!!

Enough about my lucky streak... Instead, let's ponder upon how this man won the lottery 5 times in 5 years!

...And more importantly, does he have a wife already? huh? huh? *wink wink* XD

Drugstore Gem: Clean & Clear Dual Action Moisturizer

2010-01-12T01:30:00.000-05:00

Technically, I didn't get this from a drugstore...
I got it from Wal-Mart for around $5 (in Canada is around $8...BOO!).
Totally random choice too! I picked it up coz I was dying (with dehydrated skin that is), and it was the cheapest thing there! XD

I have combo/dry skin, which turn SUPER dry during Toronto/Chicago's SUPER cold winter!
This layered underneath my AquaMoist Gel is surprisingly good enough to keep my skin hydrated.
For the summer, I could probably just use it alone.

I'm not a fan of rich creams.
They are difficult to spread and have a tendency to turn... doughy (for lack of a better word) when layered with other products.
They make my face greasy, are not easily absorbed and usually don't feel very hydrating.

Which is why I prefer gel creams or light oil-free moisturizers such as this one.

Now I don't know about the "pimple preventing" claim, as I haven't used it long enough to notice anything.

"Yay" if it does! "Whatever" if it doesn't....

I am a realist...At $5 I expect no miracle....

What I do enjoy is the refreshing/tingling sensation after I apply it!

Makes my face feel... minty fresh! :D

However, there's such a thing as "too light" (aka. useless) when it comes to moisturizers.
Case in point: Kevin's BeautyMaker Aquamarine Lotion.

This is similar to splashing water on your face.

It feels hydrating for about a minute, then you feel dry again!

At least water is free... sort of.

In fact, everything I've tried from BeautyMaker really suck! (Aquamarine serum, Facial Contout lift, acne gel...) And they're not even that cheap! And they use up quickly! And... (perhaps to be continued in another post)

So, if you've tried that, and hated it...then you might wanna give Clean & Clear a try.

I recommend using the C&C moisturizer underneath another cream that can act as a sealant.

I also like to use it throughout the day whenever I need a refresher, since it sinks in really easily.

However, it really boggles my mind that: It's a pump dispenser! Why the heck is there no cap?!?!?

Not very travel friendly without a cap... If the pump gets squashed, it could leak everywhere in my purse or suitcase!

(Yes, those are the actual contents of my purse... And yes, I have MAD Paint skills ...XD)

Is it really that expensive to make a plastic cap?
Or...Is it just bad product design????

In which case...Tsk tsk tsk...

UPDATE: I was kindly informed by fellow bloggers (Thanks guys :D) that to lock the pump, simply twist it clockwise.
Well... don't I feel like an a$$... -___-

No, I do not have a Cyber Sugardaddy

2010-01-06T22:58:00.000-05:00

My parents got quite suspicious when I received 3 packages in the last 2 days...

Dad: "Who keep sending you things?"
Mom: "Are you involved in some sort of...online mating websites?"
Dad: "You know they could be perverted old men!!!!"
Mom: "Well...is he...Rich?"

Sorry to disappoint mother, but my "sugardaddies" are straight women...

Let's start with the love package from Meme!
She decided to send me some "Spring"! Guess she read my posts whining about Winter and how there should only be 3 seasons a year: Spring, Summer, Fall...and repeat...

What's even more amazing, is the fact that she made the hair clips herself!!!

Holy...

I could barely make a paper swan... :S

Ahhh, it feels like spring already :D

I think it looks pretty good with the hair up too...

I'm not very imaginative when it comes to hair...

But I'm sure there are plenty of other ways to wear them...Feel free to suggest!
She has a hair accessory blogshop, which she didn't ask me to mention. But I do coz I like her work...
So as long as I didn't uglify the clips, and turn AWAY people :S... feel free to check it out :D

Second package is from Miss Calia because I won her giveaway!
More handmade goodies!

Everything is hand crafted...can you believe it?
How do you ladies do it?
That's it..I'm gonna google "how to fold a paper swan"...

Cute ain't it? :D

As much as I love big, bold, in-your-face jewelries (which make my friends walk just slightly behind me, and pretend they're not with me... )

On an everyday basis, I prefer dainty and lightweight jewelry like this one.

Coz believe me, I do not need extra weight on me!!!

Check out her upcoming blogshop Spider Lily.

Which again, no one asked me to advertise...but I choose to because my over-inflated ego think I may have some influence...

So if Oprah or Brad Pitt drop by your shops...You know who sent them *wink*!

Last but not least, my prize from Verina's giveaway!

Seriously, I don't know how I keep winning! :D

I don't think I enter too many giveaways... Anything that makes it mandatory to do an actual blog post or post pictures... I don't do...coz I'm too lazy :P

Aww V, you are too sweet! You said it was a surprise, but I didn't expect it to be this...AWESOME!!!

By the way, that brush is so friggin' soft!!!!

Unfortunately, the Too Faced Eyeshadow & Shimmer Bar is broken...

At first, I thought maybe it was...SUPPOSED to look like this? Maybe instead of shimmer "bar"...they meant "powder"? :S

But after googling it...

Turns out it's suppose to look like this XD:

Anyway, no worries! I already emailed Beautyticket about the damaged item and expect them to handle it professionally.

Because if they don't! My significant influence in the blogging world...no...the ENTIRE world (muahaha)... will surely wreak havoc on their future sales! :P

Don't be surprised if this becomes breaking news on CNN...

Must give thanks to my new sugardaddies: Meme, Calia, and Verina.
I may freeze my toes going out to check the mail... but you guys made it DAMN worth it!!! :D

Update- BeautyTicket emailed me back:

Hi,

Geez it looks like a USPS truck ran over your item! We are sorry your gift arrived in such damaged condition. We will send another one out to you tomorrow. Thanks for sending the picture and again we apologize for the inconvenience.

Sincerely,

Anne

VIP Customer Care BeautyTicket.com

Guess they saw the headline in tomorrow's paper...and stopped it in time... Hmm, good for them!

Review: Joe Fresh Brush Set

2010-01-04T16:36:00.000-05:00

Oh how quickly I fall in and out of love with ~~people~~ things...
Awhile ago, I was gushing about Joe Fresh like a schoolgirl.
However, as I use, and get to know their products, I'm finding more and more flaws...

Like this Joe Fresh Brush Set:

I was enamored with the crystal clear packaging, and bought it on a whim.

The packaging is still nice imo, but that's really all there is going for it.

Think of it as a pretty boy/girl with no brain... well, at least it won't age and eventually lose its looks, and you won't have to tell your kids "I married your mother coz she was good looking... And now I'm paying for it with the rest of my life..."

Ahem, no real life relation whatsoever...

Anyway!

The liner brush don't work as well as my Essence of Beauty angled brush, so I don't use that.

The only brush I really use is the Blush Brush.

Which brings me to its BIGGEST FLAW: it sheds! Quite a bit!

I'm very much an amateur when it comes to brushes, so I can't judge how well the eyeshadow blending brushes work. But in my unprofessional judgment: it's nothing special.

Since I use my fingers for concealers, the concealer brush is just another eye candy piece.

I thought 5 brushes for $20 was a sweet deal, but compared to the Borghese brush set ($13.99) from Costco; it's no steal.

These brushes are a lot softer compared to Joe Fresh ones.

Not to mention you get a MILLION (slight exaggeration, I'm too lazy to count) brushes!!!

Bottom Line: Save your money, it ain't worth it. There are better ~~mates~~ brush sets out there.

Do I need another lippie?

2010-01-02T23:37:00.000-05:00

GOD NO!!!

Was I able to resist the 2 for $10 New Year sale?
See..answer...above... -___-

Me is ashamed...

Especially when it comes to the Shu lippie, since I bought it for the cute red packaging (But who is Mika? And why does he/she "heart" Shu? o__O)

Inside the tube is this weird...orange...beigyish...color... :S

Which I probably should have know...

Since it says "orange beige" on the bottom.

And look it too...

On the lips it doesn't look as scary as it sounds... so phew...

Other than that, I only succumbed to one other item:

This is the one I sampled before.

It has the same immediate mattefying and smoothing effect as the Clinique Total Turnaround Visible Skin Renewer.
But like the Clinique, it probably has no long-term benefits...seems to me it should be labeled as a primer.
I wouldn't pay more than $10 for it...well, plus the 8% something tax.

Anyway, was recently tagged for a "I Frequently Read Your blog" award.

The rule is to tag 10 other blogs...
Well, I can't.
Coz you see the Blog roll on my side bar? Yeah, I read em all.

So, if you're on it...I stalk...I mean, I frequently read your blog :D
I may not comment as much as usual (ie. my usual essays on your posts...coz my opinions are uber important, and I must voice them.)
But I still read everyone single one of your entries...
I just can't type coz I need my hands to eat... -___-

Now you see why I'm a makeup addict...
Coz clothes may not always fit...but makeup knows no size.

Update on that Eyelash Treatment shit

2009-12-29T21:27:00.000-05:00

Yes I said "shit"(you know, instead of my usual censored version. ie. "sh*t") ... -___-
Because JESUS CHRIST this stuff is evil!!!
Well...I guess I just gave away the ending of my review...

Remember that L'action Cosmetique Eye Lash Treatment I got?

Which I gushed about and got all excited for in this post.

Ok, I never had much hope for it, because my philosophy in life is: Avoid having expectations so I can avoid disappointments...(Wise I know...)
But never did I expect it to be so...Horrific! :S

So do I have any justification for all my bashing?
Yes, I performed an extensive and complex scientific experiment.

Hypothesis: This will be the cheaper version of Latisse, and I will be Brooke Shields.

Observation:
When I used it, my lashes would fall out like MAD!!!
When I stopped using it, my lashes stopped falling out.

Conclusion: This shit is evil. I feel wronged. ;'(

Perhaps I should be a little more reserved in my opinion and tell you:
"Oh, it didn't do much for ME...but you know how every person is different, perhaps it'll work out marvelously for YOU!!!"

Yes, I will say that... to people I hate -___-
So if you've got some enemies...who are also interested in lash enhancement...
You know what product to recommend *wink*

I mean when it dried, it made my lashes all hard and crusty...
"Nourish" and "Moisturize" my a$$! Suffocates them more like!!!

Indeed, I was at fault for being so curious about an unknown brand, and ready to believe every claim made on the package.

"I'm sure they won't make that claim without some support! Whooo, "L'action Cosmetique"... that sound smart...very scientific....They must know their shit! Oh and it's made in France... French women know their shit... Ok! Good enough for me! Lalalalaaaa, off to chew gum and twiddle my thumbs..."

Yes... I'm well-known for my logical way of thinking...

Despite being so "rational"... I still bought it when I couldn't find any reviews online, and everybody I talked to, were either too afraid to try or found it shady looking.

So the moral of the story is: If a product is new or not wildly reputable, don't buy and try it yourself...wait for some other gullible loser (like me) to try it first.

My prize from Eki is here!!! Whoo whee!

2009-12-27T03:32:00.000-05:00

Actually the package came in on Christmas Eve, I just haven't blogged about it because...
Because well... I've been in a coma for the last couple of days... :(

Yes... a coma...

Let me just say that "Food Coma" is a real illness, and millions of people are afflicted each year around the holiday season!
It needs to be recognized and taken more seriously by the public and the health care system!
So the next time I call a hospital demanding medical attention...
I would appreciate if the staff there NOT howl with laughter! And reply with "Bite me!".

So I apologize if this post is half-assedly written...Or ends mid sentence...
That probably means I fell asleep...or my stomach finally burst and I, you know...die.

Anyway, prepare to be very jealous!!! :D (Thank you SO MUCH Eki!!!!)

Yes I know it's friggin AWESOME!!!

And no, I DON'T know how I got so lucky...XD

Everyone literally "oohed" and "aahed" as I ripped open my package...

I had to wrestle the Kit Kats off of my dad and cousin, in order to take this picture.

Not sure what flavors they are, since only the Espresso Coffee one is in English...

So I gave them new names: "Yellow Delicious"... and "Blue Mmm-Mmm Good"

And yes, you can believe your eyes...

That is indeed the Jill Stuart cosmetic pouch and mirror!

And day-amn you can fit a lot in there!

I've been lemming this for so long!

And almost 90% of what she gave me were on my to-try list!!!

The makeup fairies must have listened to my prayers...

They must have also seen me ogling Eki's earring (but never buying, coz I spent all my money on makeup and ice cream)....

Coz she gave me a pair too!!!!

The earrings are like a ray of sunlight in an otherwise grim and dreary world...

I look at it and picture a boat taking me away to somewhere warm and tropical...

In case you haven't figured it out... I HATE WINTER!!! I HATE SNOW!!!

Ahem, anyway...

Can I just say...and I'm being serious here (for once), that I am just so AMAZED and dumbfounded at how incredibly talented Eki is!

Even her business cards are like pieces of art!!!

I do have one complaint about you though, Eki...
That you make me realize how extremely talent-LESS I am... :P
(Feel free to check out her store ...all 10 of you who read my blog...)

Is this an occasion for some cam whoring?
I think so.

Thank god I took those pictures already!
Coz my face expanded like...EXPONENTIALLY in the last few days...

Phew...all this typing is way too much of a work out.
Need to go back to...lyin' down.

Jill Stuart Jelly Eye Color- Midnight Shine

2009-12-23T15:46:00.000-05:00

Due to popular request, I shall dedicate a post to the Jill Stuart eye jelly (thanks to Kelly! :D)

So, what can I say about the Jill Stuart Jelly Eye color...
Well... it makes me wanna do this:

Hahaha...yes...feel free to laugh it up!

I wanted to cutesie-fy the picture further (maybe add some tiaras, bows, rainbows...), but I restrained myself...

It's no secret that packaging is one of JS's biggest selling point.

And fans of Jill Stuart don't need me to explain why I love it (it's like holding a precious gem stone!), and how it makes me feel (cough*like a princess*cough...)

I can probably stop this post now, and just let you stare at the above picture for an hour or so (like i did)...

*sigh* ain't it purdy?

But in case anyone's wondering about what's INSIDE the pot...

(The one with Flash is a more accurate representation of the actual color)

I was quite startled when I first touched it.

Have you ever tried to dig your fingers into a cup of jello??? Yes you have...and yeah it's like that!

At first I was like "Whoa!"

Then I was like "Wowwwwww..."

And then I proceeded to poke it for next 5 minutes...

So the texture is interesting, definitely one-of-a-kind!

Now let's discuss the color, and how it looks on the skin.

At first I was skeptical about how blue would look on me.

But I'm so glad Kelly chose this color, coz it's friggin' STUNNING!!!

It's a lot more glamorous than it looks in the pictures, sparkly and glittery but in a subtle way.

And when it's on my eyes, it literally makes me think of stars in a midnight sky. :D

I know my FOTDs are kinda pointless, which is why I hardly ever do them anymore...

The colors are very bold and dark in real life, but none of that come across from the pictures. T__T My apologies.

What I can say is that this color is good for a shimmery smokey eye that is wearable on a daily basis.

If I ever get a DSLR, this deserves another post with PROPER pictures!!!

I wore it out for dinner, and by the end of the night, the color didn't crease or change at all.
If anything it just gets better looking! :P Could be my imagination tho...

This picture is nowhere near reality either...but i think it shows off the sparkles a bit better. Which imo, is what makes this color so dazzling and brilliant!

I might have gone to the bathroom more than necessary, just to admire it in the mirror XD

So far only pros.. any cons you ask?

Well, I find it takes me a while to apply it (vs. the speed and ease from using a palette). I don't know if it has anything to do with my application method, which is using my finger. (Anyone has any other suggestions?)

I would recommend building the color up gradually, because it can look dirty if you don't blend it well above the crease, especially for Asian eyes.

Overall, is this the best cream/gel eyeshadow I've ever used?

In the words of Steve Carell in The 40 Year Old Virgin: "Fo sho!"

Nowwww, it feels likes Christmas....

2009-12-21T21:43:00.000-05:00

I'm back in the States with my family for the holidays...
And look what greeted me at the door!!!
"Oh, hi mom... hi dad... Helloooooo my babies!!!"

My Sephora, Clinique, Imomoko, and Adam Beauty haul came...

But the best package of all, is the one from Kelly...

It's Jill-freaking-Stuart!!!

Can I get a.. "AHHHHHHHHH!!!!"??

Her dad went back to Taiwan, and she asked him to get me the Jelly eye color in 09 Midnight Shine!!!

But, what's this? More stuff???

Awww, why are you so nice to me??? The Jill Stuart was more than enough!

My parents stared at me with blank faces, as I squealed and started ranting about how awesome each item was...

"Jill who? MBD what? Is that some sort of.. STD?"

O___o

Kelly! You friggin' read my mind! I was looking to buy new falsies! (P.S. Ardell ones sucks -__-)

I love it all so much!!! *does happy dance* :D

Oh and my winnings from the MUSE (her Korres Natural Wonders giveaway) came too!!!

How did eff I get so lucky? Somebody loves me up there in makeup heaven...

I didn't expect everything to be full sized!
Sh*t this is awesome...
Again, my parents fail to understand my enthusiasm.
Dad- "Talk to me when you win a house..."

Yeah, no one in my family share my passion for makeup...

Thanks Kelly! Thanks Muse! Thanks Korres people!
Off to play with my new gems!!!
Muahahahah!!!! XD

Blog Sale!!! (Because I finally came to my senses...)

2009-12-18T04:16:00.006-05:00

I almost had a panic attack yesterday while trying to organize my makeup stash...
I realized I must have spent thousands (upon thousands) :S... of dollars on all the makeup I own...
It'll take me at least 2 lifetimes to finish them all!

Definitely time for a Blog Sale....Definitely...

I'm only selling what I consider are good stuff...
Stuff that has cost me a sh*tload, but are neglected...because I cannot stop buying new things for the life of me!!! :S

Let me state the "rules" first, then you can scroll down for each item.

- I sell these at dirt cheap prices, but you are responsible for the shipping cost.
- Tell me what you want, and I will take a lovely stroll to my local post office. Ask them to weigh and estimate shipping.
- Come back and tell you the cost, and you can pay me the total via paypal!
- Thus, I can ship anywhere in the world! Sound good? :)
- Let me know if you want any add ons (insurance, delivery confirm etc.), as I cannot be held responsible if the post office loses or damages the item.
- I've also included links to websites where the product is sold (so you can compare the prices and make an informed decision :D)

Click the pictures to zoom.
Contact me at: daituf@yahoo.com
Prices are in $USD.

Paul & Joe Protective Fluid Foundation (Shade 40)

Used: ~ 5x (~90% left)

Asking Price: $20 (Retail: $38)

Stila Convertible Color (Poppy)

Used: ~ 3x with clean sponge, not finger (~95% left)

Asking Price: $10 (Retail: $25)

Kanebo T'estimo Frame Impact Eyes (03 Purple)

Used: ~ 3x (mostly the gel liner)

Asking Price: $15 (Retail: Discontinued)

Prescriptives Traceless Foundation (Level 3)

Used: ~ 2x (~95% left)

Asking Price: $8 (Retail: Got it from CCO, forgot how much it was)

Flirt "Love & Matteness" Oil-Free Pressed Powder (Shade: 05)

Used: ~ 2x (~99% left)

Asking Price: $7 or best offer (Retail: $14)

Vera Wang Princess Box Set

I must have used the perfume once, took a picture with it for blog banner (see above), and that's it...

I imagine shipping would be expensive.

But if anyone is in the Chicago or Toronto area, I could do a face-to-face trade.

Asking Price: $40 cash (Retail: $68 USD)

Sana Make Essence Eye Concealer (Light Yellow)

Used: ~ 5x (~90% left)

Asking Price: $6 (Retail: $13)

Beauty Credit Makeup Base (Shade: Green)

Used: ~ 3x(~90% left)

Asking Price: $6 (Retail: $18???)

BeautyHair Thickness Supporter

Used: ~ 1x (~99% left)

Asking Price: $10 (Retail: $18???)

Eyeko Cream

Used: ~ 2x (95% left)

Asking Price: $5 (Retail: $10?)

Tarte (From the Sephora Shimmer and Shine SAMPLER kit)

Asking Price: $3 EACH ($8 for all three)

Lock&Roll Creaseless Shadow duo (Bronze): Cream 3.5g, Loose 1.3g (swatched once)

Tarte eco-cheek Cheek Stain: 4.8g (swatched once)

Tarte Natural Bronzing Leg Stick: 4.8g (untouched)

That is all...

For now.

All items have been sanitized.

If you're wondering about something, just shoot me an email...

What's the worst that could happen? I ignore you? Probably...

I am such a newb at blog sales. So ladies who's done it before, please gimme some tips and advice.

Much appreciated!

Do you sometimes forget to carry around a notebook at work?

2009-12-16T22:01:00.000-05:00

If so, here's your solution: Neckbooks!!!
(Credit goes to Julia for coming up with this term! Can't believe I didn't think of it first...It's pure genius I tells ya!)

It's a notebook shaped like a sandal!
And a lei to hang it around your neck...so you'll never be without!

At a business meeting? Need a notebook? Just look down...and voila!

Walk around the office with this...and all your co-workers will be so jealous!

Just one of my discoveries at the Dollar Store...

You have no idea how much I got bitched at at work, for not carrying around a notebook all the time.
(Why do you think I'm out of a job? :P)

"Where's you notebook??? GET OUT!!!!"

And word of advice... replying with:
"I've got it all up here *points to head* Keep talkin' Dollface! *wink*"
...Will only get you into more trouble... -___-

Hey! Maybe if they had cool notebooks like these at work...I'd remember more often!!!

(Click to zoom! They are funny, trust me!!!)

Help! Which one should I get????

I'm leaning towards the "I'm not listening. You keep talking. How weird is that?"

Or the "hi! Where's your off button?"

Hahaha, I'd like to whip out one of these at an interview...or any type of serious situation really...

Can you imagine the look on your boss's face??? When you take notes with these???

Oh Funny Bunny cracks me up! >.<

There are also fridge notepads...which caused me to literally laugh (well, it came out like a snort) out loud in the store...

I also discovered Maybelline and L'oreal Mascaras at Dollarama.

I got the Maybelline one awhile ago.

(One side is primer, the other is mascara.)

I know it was only $2...but GOD what a waste of $2!!!
I could have gotten like... TWO Funny Bunny notebooks with that!!!
No need for a review... it sucks. Period.

They also had the L'oreal Bare Naturale Mascara in brown.

But I ain't wastin' another 2 bucks on this!!!

It's rumored that Dollarama mascaras are fakes...

I dunno, looks real to me. I think the mascara just suck, that's all.

Has anyone tried the "real" ones? How are they?

I also got a wall mirror shaped like a coc....I mean, rooster...shaped like a rooster...

Haha... the dollar store is fun....

So which notebook should I gettttttt????

Time to update my resume...

2009-12-14T23:42:00.000-05:00

Because my ability to wander around a drugstore for hours should be considered a skill...

Anyway, upon one of my wanderings, I discovered this rack in PharmaPlus:

Is this new? Or have I just been blind?

They have some interesting products like these:

Eyelash Treatment

Eyebag Minimizer

Scar Reducing Oil

Makeup-ish products

Spot Lighting Gel

And masks, like "Q10 masks"

I was hoping some blogger have reviewed these already...

But all I got were French websites when I googled... o__O

French?!?!? I could barely read English...

And their website wasn't that helpful either...

Fine, fine...I'll be the guinea pig for yall then!

What a selfless, altruistic, philanthropic, magnanimous person I am... (I may or may not have looked up "selfless" in the thesaurus, then copy and pasted here...please ignore if the words are inappropriately used -__-)

I got the eyelash treatment and scar gel to try.

If they make even a REMOTE difference, it would be totally worth it...considering the price.

But if they suck (like I think they will), then I'll just lose out on 30 bucks...and won't try anymore of their products!

So they better do something...or expect a hate post from me!

And I'm mean!!! In cyberspace...

So how much do the new CoverGirl Smokey ShadowBlast suck eh?

Looks good on the hand, does nothing on the lids...

So unless "invisible" is their new theme... Kind of a ripoff for $10 don't cha think?

The new Maybelline stuff, however, looks gorge don't they???

So soft and silky :)

And have great color selections available (wish they had testers for other colors too)

But... I have more makeup than a reasonable person would or should have...

So I can probably safely resist them... unless there's some sort of 50% off or BOGO sale...

Anyone else bought them yet? How are they?

Quality aside, I'm really happy to see that American drugstore brands are becoming hipper! And more innovative!

Unlike their old stuff, which are boringly matte with unimaginative packaging...

These new lines are more shimmery and have funkier designs!

Finally taking a leaf out of the Japanese's books eh?

Of course, they are still farrrrr behind the standards of Japanese drugstore makeup...

At least they're becoming more forward-thinking and creative... bravo!

Revlon's keeping their uninspired packaging... but the actual product seem pretty and shimmery?

Oh! so while taking these pictures in the drugstore, the following happened...

(Note: Words inside the squiggly lines (~) represent thoughts in my head... I do not speak them outloud coz remember? I pretend to be nice in real life...)

So I'm just harmlessly swatching and taking pictures, a random woman (who's a customer) speaks to me:

Random Woman- (bitchiest tone u can imagine) "I don't think you're allowed to take pictures of the merchandise!"

Me- "Um...why?" ~WHO the f....are you?!?!~

RW- "Isn't it obvious????"

Me- "It is???" ~WHY the f... are you talking to me?!?!? Go back to shopping for your PMS meds! Shoo!~

Just then a store employee walks by.

Me- (to employee) "Excuse me! Is it ok if I take pictures of these?"

Store Employee- (shrugs) "Yeah sure..." (walks away)

Me- (to RW) "Guess it's ok then..." ~ Must...resist...urge...to do this...~ >.<

New York Made Me Fat and Poor (Part Dos)

2009-12-11T00:19:00.000-05:00

Me- "Hi! Where's your Jill Stuart counter?"
SA- "Jones New York?"
Me- "Uh, no... Jill Stuart"
SA- "Jill Sanders?"
Me- "Stuart...JILL STUART! Ya ignorant fool..." -___-

Ok, so the last part happened in my head...
Coz I pretend to be nice in real life... o.O

I didn't bother to looking up the locations where Jill Stuart is being sold...Turns out they don't have it at every store :(

So continuing from the last post... while at Bergdorf...

Can I just say...THIS is why whenever a SA ask me if I "need any help", I instinctively scream out "NO!!!!" and run away...

Made the mistake of letting the Shu SA f**k with my face...
(And no, it's not the flash...I was even whiter in real life...)

I mean, what make him think this is a good color match?!?!?!
I look friggin albino!!! (No offence, but this is NOT a good look for me...)

The Shu SA overheard me say that "I hear Shu foundations are good" to my friend...
Insisted that I try their Stick Foundation:

Got all offended coz I said "I suppose I can...TRY it..." with a non-too-subtle emphasis on "TRY" (which means not buy...)
Somehow I got guilted into the makeup chair, which resulted in me looking like an Asian/female version of Powder...

Let this also be a warning to those with my skin type (combo with extra dry cheeks).
An hour after putting on this foundation, half of my face peeled off...

Yes, my cheeks are dry in the winter...
And yes, it flakes a little when I use foundation...
But none as horrifying as this!! :S

Let's just say...
Ew.

Now, for the non-makeup portion of my trip. Feel free to skip this part if you are bored, disinterested, or just don't give a tiny rat's ass...

Some tips if you are going to New York:
1. Skip Magnolia Bakery (Can I get an Overaaaaaated?)
- Instead, head to Dylan's Candy Bar for bigger, cheaper cupcakes.

- Or eat from a truck...

2. If you want to visit Serendipity's, expect a 3+ hour wait... so plan ahead!

We didn't... instead we just took a picture and left...

3. Empire State Building gives an amazing view. But go at night so there are no line ups.

If you go during the winter, expect it to be cold...like soul-shatteringly cold...

4. Walking around downtown Manhattan is like being in a movie... Lights! Lights! Everywhere!

Even their police station has flashing neon lights!!!

5. Do this on the Brooklyn Bridge and people will stare...

However, try to commit suicide and nobody will care...

6. Lastly, bring comfortable and water resistant shoes! Coz when it rains...it pours...

And yes that's me in the yellow poncho... -___-

New York Made Me Fat and Poor (Part Uno)

2009-12-10T02:59:00.000-05:00

Shopaholic takes Manhattan...

So much damage...So little time...

I guess it doesn't look that bad (fish was the generous donation of our inn keeper)...

But considering I was only there for the weekend...:S

It alllllll started with a trip to Bergdorf Goodman...

(cue flashback music)

Me: "I'm not gonna buy anything, but since we're here anyway, should at least take a look..."

Friend: "Let's go! There's probably heating in there..."

Once we reached the Beauty Level, I headed straight to the Paul & Joe counter and start to molest everything in sight....

SA: "Hi! We're having a special promotion today! Buy $100 or more and get $25 off, and..."

Me: "Umm...I'll think about it..."

(I start to walk away...)

SA: "...you'll also get a free gift..."

Me: "Ok, I'll take this, this and this..."

Anyway, so turns out the free gift was this:

Not sure what it is...

Looks vaguely like what people used to type in the olden days...

Hmm.... can't find the keyboard on this thing...How does one make words appear?!?!?

Anyway, I got P&J's treatment oil, whitening serum and eye cream.

All stuff I would have gotten anyway... so really I'm just saving money....

Heyyyyy! In my defense!!!... my friend spent $175 on a perfume... that no one's even heard of!!!!

Main Francis Kurkdjian? Anyone heard of that brand?

Anyway, like an hour before leaving the city, I stopped by Sephora...

And did you think I was gonna leave empty handed?

Especially when I was in possession of the $20 VIB money????

Well, still ended up paying $20 for this (Damn Sephora and their clever marketing schemes):

Been lemming this set for awhile now... Mostly for the Guerlain meteorite balls (that I'm too cheap to pay for full size)...

IMO, all makeup should be this size!

There's JUST enough to last through my initial infatuation phase...

Then onto the next hot thang!!!

So far, am loving most of the items in there... especially the Laura Geller blush and gloss!

Oh yes, and the fat part...

There's literally something delicious to eat at every street corner!!!

Ok...so that was lunch...

Aiyeee, I need to move there!!!

But first I need to buy new pants in a bigger size...

"I HEART NEW YORK!!!"

JuJu Aqua Moist Gel Cream- Review

2009-12-09T13:49:00.000-05:00

Remember how this item was on my makeup Oscar list?

And remember how I said I will never repurchase anything?
Well, I need more of this sh*t!!!! NOW!!!!

You can really tell if a product is good or not once you stop using it.
Because the day after I finished my jar, my skin started rebelling like crazy!!!
My face felt soooooo dry that I had to run to Shoppers and start slathering on like... 10 different creams!

An hour or so later, my face would feel dry again... :(

In New York, my face was constantly peeling... Even though I was using Korres cream, with Vichy Aqualia Light, with Olay moisturizer and whatever the hell else I could get my dry grabby hands on...

Right now I'm using Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizer, with Clinique Age Decelerating moisturizer but these made my face greasy, and I still feel dry.

So yes, will definitely, DEFINITELy need to restock on Aqua JuJu Gel cream when I hit Mitsuwa again...

Pros:
- Locks in moisture like nothing else! The Japanese REALLY knows skin care eh?
- Cheap! (around $20 in Mitsuwa, $15 online at sasa.com)
- Supposed to whiten and lighten dark spots too (Not sure if it does that, but good to know it might.)
- Non greasy, it's a light refreshing gel texture.

Cons:
- Uses up quickly. (Finished mine in like 2 months?)

Just thought I'd let you guys know what a great product it is!
At least for me and my extremely dry skin, it works wonders...

Giveaway Winners!!!

2009-12-04T21:25:00.000-05:00

Thanks all for entering my giveaway!
And now to announce the winners that were picked with the help of random.org.

1st Prize Winner: Angela

2nd Prize Winner: Janine

Congrats guys! I will contact you soon, but if you see this, please send me a email (listed on my profile) with your address.

P.S. Am currently in New York baby!!! Shall update y'all later when I get home. :D