J. Rose Online

Target Find: Water Fountain

2012-02-13T10:24:00.001-08:00

Found this water fountain at my local Target in Diamond Bar, CA. I've been wanting to get one of these for the longest time. But didn't want to spend a lot on it.

So when I saw this in the clearance and saw that it was under $10, I knew I had to pick it up.

I ended up using it as decor on my end table in my living room. Yay for Target clearance! I always seem to find something in there.

Target Find is another J.Rose Online series. It will be of photos of good deals I found at Target store. Every time I go there, I always peruse the clearance aisles of every section and check out the $1 bins at the front of the store. I'll try to post up pictures of items I find within a day or so from when I found them so that you can check your local Target and see if they have the same deal.

Haul: Breaking Dawn Part 1 DVD

2012-02-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

Yay! I picked up my copy of Breaking Dawn Part 1 this morning. I was contemplating on just getting the Blu-Ray, but I ended up really wanting the special edition that included a flower from the set of the wedding. I also picked up the Blu-Ray copies of Twilight and New Moon. Now my Twilight DVD series is complete for now.

And last night, I met up with Joey (http://xjoeybean.blogspot.com/) and Lena (http://ladylonline.blogspot.com/) and L's friend, Kristy to catch the sneak peek of Breaking Dawn Part 2. I haven't seen L and Joey in years! It was so good seeing them and chit chatting while we waited 2 hours to watch a 5 minute video that included a recap of the past movies, cast interviews, behind the scenes for Part 2 and finally a little snippet of part of the new movie.

I felt a little robbed. I wanted to see more! I guess that's what a teaser is for, right?! Anyways, it didn't even feel like 2 hours that we were waiting because we were all engulfed in our convos. Good times.

They were going to start selling the DVDs at midnight and the preview ended at 11:10. We were all so tired from starting our days so early that we ended up calling it a night right after the preview was done. There was no way we wanted to wait another 50 minutes.

It was all good though because it was so much easier going to Target the next day to pick it up.

But seriously, I cannot wait until BD Part 2 comes out!

Did you pick up your copy already?

Project: 40 Pound Meltdown Update #2

2012-01-23T11:33:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to do another check in. As of today I am just about halfway to my goal. I actually want to lose a total of 42 lbs since my weigh-in in October (when I first started) I was at 167lbs.

As of today, I am 19 lbs lighter! I honestly didn't think I would have been able to do it. Especially with my thyroid problem, but now I know that it really does take a LOT of dedication. Now that I'm almost at 20 lbs lost there is no turning back now. Gotta keep it up.

October 1, 2011: 167.9 pounds
November 10, 2011: 157 pounds
December 31, 2011: 152.5 pounds
Today, January 23, 2012: 148.8 pounds

I did start taking progress pics when I was at 152 pounds and will continue to take more pics. That way I have some good before & after pictures when I do my final post.

The picture on this post is a before & after. I found the pic on the left on my iPhone and it shows when I was at my heaviest ever since I developed hypothyroidism. Left side was about 7 months ago at about 165-167 pounds. Right side was taken on Friday 1/20/12 at 149 pounds.

I have been adding a lot of people on My Fitness Pal. We can all use the support, join me!

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/jroseonline

I hope that my weight loss journey will motivate and help others to start on their own journey. I thank all my supporters for cheering me on since I started. I'm not there yet, but I will get there!

Until next check in!

Not Your Bandwagon Fan

2012-01-09T21:55:00.000-08:00

For those of you who know me definitely know that I am not no bandwagon fan! I may have not been a fan since the beginning of their time, but I have been a fan of the Los Angeles Clippers since 2006. I think that makes me a true fan, what do you think?

Before the NBA lockout ended and we got news of the new Clippers roster, I knew I definitely wanted to go to a few games this season. I haven't been to a Clippers game since before I got pregnant with baby E back in 2008. Time and money were an issue so we couldn't fit going to any games in the budget. Well we did go to a game, but that was a Lakers game and I got a sweet deal on VIP suite boxes and Mr. Man has never been to a Lakers game!

Anyways, I was trying to find tickets to the home opener and man, let me tell you, seats were so expensive! When I go to games, I'd rather not do nosebleeds. Honestly, I'd rather stay home and watch it on TV rather than sit in nosebleeds seats. Every Clippers game I've been to, I've always been in the 100 sections, except for those couple of times we were in the VIP suites and that one time we were in the 200 section during the playoffs in 2006.

Anyways, this past weekend, Mr. Man and I got the opportunity to sit 5 rows from the court. It was behind the basket, but it was ok. We got to go to a game! And let me tell you, it was so awesome! I forgot how the experience was. Seeing the players that close, I kept telling Mr. Man, "they look so real!" HAHA of course, they are real. If I were to ever meet any of them in person, I'd probably be speechless and just stare. I'm serious!

Like that one time in 2007, when we met Elton Brand and got my jersey signed by him. I didn't even know what to say!

March 2007 - getting my jersey signed by Elton Brand.

Anyways, back to the game at hand... We sat in section 107 Row F. After the game, I watched the replay and DVRd it.

We were just to the right of the base of the basket.

Here's the view from our seats.

Watching warmups.

DeAndre Jordan at the foul line.

I really hope to go to another game this season. When I look up prices for seats, they actually aren't that bad. But with my 10 year wedding anniversary coming up, I might not be able to go to another game quite yet. Who knows maybe the next game I go to is when they make the playoffs! That'll be nice! But let me tell you, I am so happy that the Clippers team finally have a chance at making playoffs again. This season has definitely been fun to watch so far and I can't wait to see more! Let's Go Clippers!!

NYE 2012

2012-01-01T12:56:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

How did you spend your New Year's Eve? Partied hard and got drunk? Stayed home and watched the ball drop on TV? Let me tell you how I spent my New Year's Eve.

I kept it simple with my FOTD. Just foundation, eyeliner and one of my fave MAC lipgloss, Electric Fuschia.

The day started with a bit of cleaning up, then I got ready for our Lunch Double Date & a 1/2 that Mr. Man and I had with BFF, Jacky, her BF, Brian and her daughter. We headed out to Santa Monica to a little place called Jack & Jill's Bakery & Cafe on Santa Monica Blvd.

Our lunch consisted of country fried steak, big spicy burrito, tuna salad and louisiana chicken w/ french fries (not pictured)

After lunch, we decided to hit up Santa Monica Pier and on the way there we ran into a lot of Wisconsin fans who were here to watch Wisconsins Badgers play in the Rose Bowl. They were having a pep rally and took up the whole parking lot. The team came in on buses and were escorted by a lot of motorcycle policemen. It was pretty fun to watch actually.

The first game.... The guys were itchin' to try to make a basket in the hoop, the prizes weren't that good! Needless to say, they both spent $5 each and made ZERO baskets. HAHA! so yeah they were pretty upset.

So we decided to play Roll A Ball since we felt it was easy enough and we all just played against each other. Even though Mr. Man won the game, my goddaughter was the real winner as she got to pick the prize and take it home!

And of course, before we headed home, had to take a pic with my BFF, Jacky. We have known each other 11 years. She was one of my first friends I made when I first moved to southern California. There were a few years where we just stopped talking to each other. Over what? I don't even know or remember. All I know is that I'm glad that we rekindled our friendship a year and a half ago and it's even stronger than it was before! Thank you, Facebook, for helping us reconnect :)

When we got home, I debated if I should mix myself any alcoholic beverages. I ended up saying, "what the heck, it's new year's eve, I'm at home so why not!" First drink of the night were kamikaze shots! Only 2 shots in and Mr. Man was already drunk asian red. HAHA!

And to end the night, Mr. Man, the boys and I watched the ball drop on TV and screamed, "Happy New Year!"

Project: 40 Pound Meltdown Update #1

2011-12-31T22:39:00.000-08:00

If you have been following me on Twitter or have added me on MyFitnessPal, you may have already been getting updates on my latest weight loss project. As the year is winding down, I put together some before and after pics. They are not quite progress pictures as I never really took the time to take any. But as I was looking at these pictures, I sort of see quite a difference. Do you?

Left side: Befores, Right Side: Afters

Anyways, as of right now here are my stats:

October 1, 2011: 167.9 pounds
November 10, 2011: 157 pounds
Today, December 31, 2011: 152.5 pounds

So far a total of 15.4 pounds lost. After losing the initial 10 pounds I lost that first month, it was very difficult losing the last 5. Only because the holidays was upon us and I had quite a bit too many "cheat days". Now that the holidays are over, there are no more excuses. I plan to go hard at this. I have 27.5 pounds left to go to hit my goal weight. My goal is to lose that by the first week of May. Can I do it? I hope I can!

All I know is that I need to be really dedicated in the way I have been eating. No more of these multiple cheat days!

The one thing I did notice after losing these 15 pounds is that I can finally wear shorts when I go to the gym. When I first started working out, I would wear shorts to the gym. But in the middle of my work out, my thighs would start to chafe and it got pretty bad that I had to wear pants every time I would work out. I'm assuming that most of the weight I lost, aside from my face, was my thighs because I can now wear shorts and actually be comfortable!

So of course, my #1 new year's resolution is to lose 27 pounds. Here's to the new year, new goals and hopefully new accomplishments! Thank you for joining me in my latest journey, Project: 40 Pound Meltdown.

Do you have any weight loss tips to share with me? I am always open to new ways to help me lose the weight.

Project: 40 Pound Meltdown (Read my first story)
Need inspiration or support? Add me on MyFitnessPal.com: jroseonline@gmail.com

Happy Holidays 2011!

2011-12-25T23:31:00.000-08:00

In this photo: Some of my favorite ladies! Posin' at our annual holiday party. The theme was Red & Black - Dress to Impress!
L to R: Tia, Kat, Lupe, me (the hostess), Genny, Jacky, Erin & Jackie
love these gals!

Photo Taken: December 2011

Photo Op of the Day is another J.Rose Online series. It will be of photos that I have in my collection that I've taken in the past or present. It is just another way for my readers to take a look into my life and get to know who J.Rose is and what J.Rose is all about.

Photo Op: Growing Up Fast!

2011-12-23T10:59:00.000-08:00

In this photo: 12 years ago today, I was blessed with a very beautiful baby boy. When he was born, he forever changed my life for the better. And now he's growing up into a very handsome young man. I love you, my baby Alan! Happy 12th Birthday!

Photo Taken: Left: Spring 2011 school picture. Right top: January 2000, Alan was 2 weeks old. Right middle: December 2005, Alan's 6th birthday. Right bottom: December 2011

Photo Op of the Day is another J.Rose Online series. It will be of photos that I have in my collection that I've taken in the past or present. It is just another way for my readers to take a look into my life and get to know who J.Rose is and what J.Rose is all about.

Photo Op: Family Holiday Pictures

2011-12-14T14:25:00.000-08:00

Photo Op: 2011 Family Holiday Pictures

In this photo: My Family Pictures for the Holidays. This is the first holiday family photo we've taken. We usually just take pictures in front of the tree in our pajamas on Christmas morning. I decided this year we need to send out holiday cards. So a photographer I know was kind enough to come over and take our pics. I think they came out lovely!

Photo Taken: December 2011 in my home.
Photography by: Tom Shao

Photo Op of the Day is another J.Rose Online series. It will be of photos that I have in my collection that I've taken in the past or present. It is just another way for my readers to take a look into my life and get to know who J.Rose is and what J.Rose is all about.

Event: Xmas Charity Event

2011-12-13T22:57:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, I just booked myself another makeup gig this weekend for Jn.Marie Fashion. Her designs will be showcased at the fashion show at the TogetherWeRise.org Xmas Charity Event.

After checking out the details that Lisa (of Jn.Marie Fashion) sent me, I just couldn't say no. Her fashion is lovely and to work at an event that benefits children, how can you not say no?

Oh and on top of that, it's in my neighborhood! Another plus. I am pretty excited to be working this event and I can't wait to share all the pictures with everyone!

TogetherWeRise.org Xmas Charity Event
Date: Sunday, December 19, 2011
Where: Diamond Bar Center, Diamond Bar, CA
Time: 7PM-10PM

Review: ooshirts.com Custom T-Shirts

2011-11-28T10:55:00.001-08:00

Review: ooShirts Custom T-Shirts
SOTW: ooshirts.com

I was recently contacted and given the opportunity to check out a few items from ooShirts - custom t-shirts printed with amazing prices and great service. I decided to take the opportunity and design a logo to use on shirts that I can wear when I go out on my makeup artist gigs. That way I can advertise my portfolio website while working.

here is the final design I came up with using their design lab.

Using the design lab was super simple. You can use their pre-loaded fonts to write text on the t-shirts, which you can also change the size and color of the fonts. If you need help or tips on what to put or how to design your shirt, they have design guides.

I used photoshop to create my design. I took the flower logo that a friend designed just for me and used the same font that I used on my website (they didn't have the font I wanted in their pre-loaded font selection) and mashed them together.

When I went to upload my logo on their design lab, it warned me that my image quality was not good enough. Thank goodness they give you a warning. So I went back and recreated my logo but at a higher quality.

Once you are done, you will be able to save your design and have the link emailed to you. If in case you aren't ready to order yet, you can save your design and pull it back up later.

Simple, right?

I placed my order and I was emailed the finalized artwork. Also when placing an order, they give you an exact date in which you will receive your order. You will receive your order on the day it states, if you should place the order right then and there. Pretty cool if you need your shirts by a certain date.

The Front

The Back

I was super excited when I saw the package come in the mail and opened them right away. I actually received them last Friday (on my birthday!). Tried on one of the shirts and was completely happy with the fit.

One thing I was a bit disappointed in was that the color of my flower was a bit darker than the burgundy color I was going for. It actually came out a little brown, but I'm thinking that may have to do with how colors on the monitor change compared to colors for the shirt. I'm sure it was a setting I should have changed in photoshop so that I can get the true color I wanted for my shirts. I assumed because the finalized artwork (seen above) looked burgundy to me that it would translate to the same color on the shirt. It's good to know for when I make my future order (because I will be ordering from them real soon.)

They do have live customer service, via phone or Live Chat (M-F) or you can contact them for help by email. So if you aren't sure how your design will translate to shirt or you have questions about how certain shirts will fit, you can contact them to help you out. Before anything gets printed, you have the final say.

Now let's see the shirts!

I chose 3 different shirt styles
- Bella Ladies Wide Strap Tank
- Bella Ladies V-Neck
- Bella Ladies Rib Racerback Longer-Length Tank (my favorite one)

Here is the Bella Ladies Wide Strap Tank

and a frontal shot of the Bella Ladies Wide Strap Tank. I wore this to my photoshoot that I had yesterday.

Bella Wide Strap Tank - personally, this shirt was my least favorite out of the three. If you want a more fitted tank, you should order a size smaller. I ordered medium in this shirt style and it still felt a bit loose. Also, I had to keep pulling the front part up because my logo kept sliding underneath my breasts. The placement of the logo was exactly where it was supposed to be, but I'm guessing this tank top is not for those who are blessed in the chest. Or maybe the logo just needed to be up a little higher.

Here is the Bella Ladies Rib Racerback Longer-Length Tank and a pic of my website address on the back of the shirt. I added the belt for a slimming effect. Belt is from Bebe.

Bella Ladies Rib Racerback Longer-Length Tank - this one is my most favorite out of the three I chose. It is very form fitting and I have always loved wearing a ribbed tank. I'm especially fond of the racerback as you can see, it shows off my tattoo. This one was more true to size. I also got this one in size medium. If you noticed, I placed the website address at the bottom of the shirt. I meant to do this because when I have long hair and I wear it down, I don't want to cover up my website address. And with the placement being at the bottom, it gives people a chance to look at my butt! HAHA, just kidding!

I did not take a pic of the vneck shirt, but that also was a good fit. It wasn't too tight nor too loose. I also got a size medium in that one. Fits perfectly and the logo is at a perfect spot.

J.Rose's Thoughts: Aside from the color issue, the quality of the logo print was really really good. It doesn't crack when it's stretched out (due to the breasts). They have a wide selection of different shirt and tank styles, I'm sure there's something in there for everyone. Oh and aside from tanks and shirts, they do have hoodies, shorts and sweatpants.

And because these were sent to me courtesy of the company, I played around with quotes to see how much it would cost me when I do plan to order more. Pricing is not bad at all, obviously the more you order at a time the lower the price per shirt would be. I priced out what it would cost me to say, order 10 shirts with my logo and the price came out to about $16 per shirt. Normal shipping is free and they do offer rush shipping which is +25% of your order. And sales tax is added if you are shipping to California.

If you do plan on ordering custom design shirts, you might want to give ooShirts a shot. I am going to be ordering some more right after the holidays. When I do, I may just give a few out to my readers! How many of you would rock a "Jackie H Artistry" shirt?

J.Rose Online Disclaimer: The product reviewed/shown in this post was sent by the company for review. Above review is my honest opinion after using the product and website myself and was not influenced by the company in any way.

Happy Thankgiving!

2011-11-24T22:25:00.001-08:00

My day was spent with the ones I love. My mom, my brothers, Mr. Man and my kids. Thanksgiving was a success. I really think I outdid myself with this year's dinner. It all came out so good.

Happy Birthday to me and my mom!

Happy Thanksgiving from J.Rose Online and Jackie H Artistry!

Now time to wait for midnight for some Black Friday shopping.

Jackie H Artistry Facebook Page

2011-11-22T10:34:00.001-08:00

Blogging on the go, gotta love it! Just wanted to pop in and let you know that I'll be hosting a couple of giveaways when my FB page reaches certain number of Likes.

The first giveaway will start when I reach 200 Likes. First prize will be a tube of mascara from Inglot Cosmetics.

So help spread the word and support an up and coming makeup artist get her FB Likes :)

http://www.facebook.com/jackiehartistrydotcom

SOTW: AdoreMe.com

2011-11-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

SOTW: AdoreMe.com
Website: www.AdoreMe.com

AdoreMe.com is a newly launched lingerie website that offers a unique and personalized shopping experience. I was emailed recently about this website so I decided to have a look around. Once you are on the website, you can take a short quiz telling them what style you like and prefer. Your answers to that quiz allow their professional stylists to hand pick designs and styles suited to your taste. Every month, you'll get a customized showroom that you have free access to and if you see something you like, it's as simple as clicking on Buy Now. Each set is $39.95 and it's free shipping.

Pictured above is one of the lingerie sets from my personalized showroom. It's the one that I like the most out of the bunch. They also have hosiery (in which you get at least 2 pairs for that price) and baby dolls and slips. Almost everything in my showroom is absolutely sexy! I wish I can get them all.

They also have a referral program in which you get your friends to sign up and you earn Style Points that can be accumulated so that you can earn free credit. You can use that credit for future purchases.

They are also on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/adoremeofficial

MUA: Inglot Pro Discount

2011-11-19T18:23:00.001-08:00

I finally got around to applying for my pro discounts. I was in south Orange County today so I decided to stop by Inglot at Fashion Island in Newport Beach to finally get my pro discount. It was a fairly easy process. All you had to do was fill out the application, show 3 proofs of your artistry and show your photo ID.

They have a list of what items you can show as proof:
* Pro Membership Card from an aproved Makeup Program
* License or certification from accredited school of cosmetics
* Magazine tear sheet with name credit
* Reel with name credit
* Program/ Call Sheet
* Union Membership Card
* Makeup Artist Business Card
* Agency Representation

For my proof, I showed them my certification from Cammua Makeup School, a call sheet from one of the music videos I did and my makeup artist business card. I filled out the app with the usual info, they took my proofs, my photo ID, made copies and gave me back my originals. I was handed my pro card and was able to shop right away. I picked up a few items to add to my MUA kit (which I still need to do a blog post about). Just one gel eyeliner, a mascara and a brush belt (in red!). I know, it's not much, but I'm going to do my real damage after the holidays.

Anyways, it was real easy to apply. The discount is for 20% off. I do believe if you don't have a store location near you, you can apply by email and you would have to order by email. Contact any of the Inglot locations for more info.

Hope this helps.

my new nice and shiny red Inglot brush belt filled with bdellium brushes :)

Review: Nad's Facial Wand Eyebrow Shaper

2011-11-15T12:06:00.001-08:00

Review: Nad's Facial Wand Eyebrow Shaper

What it does? Quickly remove hair from your chin, upper lip and eyebrows.

When I first started plucking my eyebrows, I used to only use tweezers. I have never had them waxed at all. I was then introduced to eyebrow threading by my sister in law a few years after moving down to southern california. Ever since then, I've only had my brows threaded.

What I would do is get them threaded and shaped and then pluck as needed for the next month or two and then go back to get them reshaped. Every time I went, it would cost me roughly about $20. That would be eyebrows, upper lip wax (can't stand the pain of getting the upper lip threaded so I stick to waxing it off) and tip. It's not too bad if you don't go very often. But at the same time, you need to find the time, you need to drive to the place and you have to go when you have no makeup on.

Which for me didn't always work out in my favor, but I made it work anyways.

I have never personally waxed anything on my body by myself. I never thought I would need to and I might as well leave it to the ones that I paid to do it professionally.

Then along came an email to try out this product.

I was invited to attend a website launch party a couple of weeks ago and that day I decided to try out this facial wand eyebrow shaper. I grew out what I could during that week so I could try it out that day.

What came in the box were:
- 0.2 oz Nad's Natural Hair Removal Gel in Slimline Wand
- 4 Nad's Cleansing Wipes
- 10 Backing Strips
- Instruction Leaflet

Steps:
1. Clean with provided cleansing wipe, then dry completely
2. Apply gel slowly in direction of hair growth
3. Firmly smooth strip on then quickly remove, holding skin taut

Where you can you get it? You can get it at any drugstore or online for about $8

J.Rose's Thoughts: I was a bit afraid that it would hurt or that I would mess up. I applied the wax with the wand and it was kind of tough for me when I first started, but eventually got used to it. To my surprise though, when I pulled off the strips, it didn't hurt at all. A definite plus!

You do have to get used to applying the wax with the wand. I love that it's precise, but if you are not too careful or if you don't pay attention, you may pull off more than you wanted. Which in my case, sadly happened, but it wasn't too bad. Once you get the hang of it, it comes out nicely and very clean! I was able to wax my other eyebrow with no problems after that first try. I also waxed my upper lip and it was also very easy and didn't hurt at all.

I used 1 cleansing pad (pad is moderately sized) and 4 strips (one for each eyebrow and two for upper lip). If I use it the same way each time, it means I can get 2 uses out of each package. Not bad if you ask me. That's saves me about $16 every time I do it myself.

Would I purchase this? Yes I would! All in all, once I completely get the hang of it, then I probably wouldn't need to go in to get my brows threaded anymore AND I save money.

J.Rose Online Disclaimer: The product reviewed/shown in this post was sent by a PR company. Above review is my honest opinion after using the product myself and was not influenced by the company in any way.

RAWartists: Video Interview

2011-11-12T15:23:00.001-08:00

Last month in October, I was invited to showcase my makeup artistry at the RAWartists.org event in Pomona. I haven't posted up any pictures yet, but I will definitely get those up soon. In the meantime, check out my video interview on why I became a makeup artist.

Project: 40 Pound Meltdown

2011-11-10T16:46:00.001-08:00

Project: 40 Pound Meltdown

How many of you remember last year when I started Project: 30 by 30? I wanted to lose 30 pounds by the time I turned 30. Last November, I turned 30 and I was heavier than when I first started Project 30 by 30. What happened?

So for those of you who are new to my blog or forgot the reason why I started Project: 30 by 30, you can read my story on my past post (Project: 30 by 30) or I'll just retell it here.

Here's a little background on myself...

I'm 5 feet tall. When I was pregnant with my oldest son, I weighed in at about 115 pounds. On the day I gave birth, I weighed in at 140 pounds, gaining 25 pounds during that pregnancy. Two weeks after his birth, I lost all pregnancy weight and dropped to about 110 pounds.

Then I got pregnant with my 2nd son and shot up to about 150 pounds by the time I gave birth. With this pregnancy, it took me about 3-4 months to lose the pregnancy weight and I dropped to about 120 pounds. So there I stayed at about 120-125 pounds.

Then I started working at PC Club. Over the course of the 5 years that I worked there, I gained about 20 pounds and I teetered at about 135-140 pounds, which wasn't too bad, but I wanted to lose the extra 20 pounds that I gained and go back to 120-125 pounds, but I worked so much that I hardly had any time to go to the gym or work out at home.

Then I got pregnant with baby E and shot up to my most heaviest at 168 pounds, gaining 28 pounds during that pregnancy. About 3 weeks after the birth of baby E, I lost that 28 pounds and I thought that it would jump start my mission on getting back to 120-125 pounds, but this baby was a handful to take care of so again no time for myself.

Then a few months passed by and I started to notice myself gaining weight. I wasn't working out, but I wasn't eating more than I usually do and on top of that I was still breastfeeding so why was I gaining weight?

I took some tests and I was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism which caused me to gain the extra weight and made me exhausted all the time. In February 2010, I was prescribed meds for it. By July of that year is when I decided to start Project: 30 by 30. A month after I started, I did lose 4 pounds, but then after that I was more exhausted than I ever was. I was only going to the gym about 5 times a week or so. I didn't think I was pushing myself that hard. Eventually I slowly stopped going. By the time I turned 30, I gained the 4 pounds back along with a few more pounds.

Fast forward to February 2011, I ran out of automatic refills for my current prescription. I haven't followed up with the doctor since my initial visit in February 2010. I let myself off meds for about 2 weeks and it worsened. I actually started to become depressed, angry and tired ALL the time. I wasn't happy with the way I looked or how I felt. It was rough.

I ended up talking to a friend who also has the same condition as I do and he recommended me seeing his doctor, who is an endocrinologist. So I made the phone call and made an appointment. When I saw him, he gave me a prescription for a different brand of the same meds I was taking. I took some blood tests and came back to see him 2 weeks later and he shared some interesting news with me.

First piece of news was that the medication I originally was taking from February 2010 to February 2011 was not enough to replace what my thyroid wasn't making. That was probably the reason I never felt any better for that year and why I wasn't losing any weight. He put me on the right meds. The next news he gave me was that I was borderline diabetic. I really needed to change my diet and start to exercise. He told me that the next time he saw me and I didn't improve, he'd have to put me on meds for diabetes. So of course that opened my eyes big time!

I ended up giving up white rice, Starbucks coffee and exercised regularly. When I saw my doctor 2 1/2 months later, I lost about 8 pounds and was no longer borderline diabetic. I was so happy that I celebrated with some Starbucks coffee.

Then in June, I started makeup school and that took my weekends away. I was working full time during the week and going to school on the weekends. When I was done with makeup school, I was still busy on the weekends trying to build my makeup portfolio. I was still tired all the time. Not as bad as earlier in the year, but still tired.

Sadly, I gained those 8 pounds back plus a couple more and in September 2011 I decided that I really need to do something about my weight. I thought about it and I knew that this was a big factor with my self esteem.

So on October 1st, I started my journey, Project: 40 Pound Meltdown. For 2 weeks, I went to the gym 5 times a week, doing about 30-60 minutes on the treadmill. I did an initial weigh in and I did follow up with weight checks on a digital scale. But on October 17 when I went to see my doctor for a follow up, I was weighed with a medical scale and I was in disbelief when I saw what the number was. I was at 167 pounds causing me to believe that my digital scale is broken! That is the most I've ever weighed non-pregnant. I told the doctor I've been trying to lose weight for the longest time and it seems nothing is helping. So he upped my dosage on my meds and recommended Blood Sugar Support tablets as a dietary supplement.

As of today, I am at 157 pounds (10 pounds lost!) and I feel good, well better than I did in the last 2 years since I've been dealing with Hypothyroidism. My gym routine consists of running/jogging/walking on the treadmill for at least 45 mins with 60 mins session at least 4 times a week. I've been going to the gym at least 5 times a week sometimes 6 times. And even in the last 2 weeks I've been doubling up and sometimes going twice a day if time permits. I wake up at 5:30AM to be at the gym at 6:00AM so that I can get home in time to get ready for work. And then if I am not playing WoW then I'll go again after work.

As for my diet, I started out by calorie counting, but then I felt I wasn't getting enough or getting the right amounts because I was always still hungry. I know diet is a big chunk at weight loss success. I'm slowly working at getting better at what I eat. I have been able to make some good choices when it comes to food, but it's still a struggle. I've given up soda, Starbucks coffee and limiting my intake on sugary sweets. I'm also careful to avoid fried, fatty foods. But again, it's a struggle that I'm slowly working on.

My ultimate goal is to be 125 pounds by May of 2012. May 1st is mine and Mr. Man's 10 year wedding anniversary and we would like to have a vow renewal ceremony and celebration. I would love to dress up and be able to look good in an elegant dress so that is my goal!

I'm going to try and take some progress pictures, but I keep forgetting. Hopefully I'll remember so that when I'm all done, I can post them up for you.

I am definitely motivated this time around. I really hope I don't fall off the wagon. But yes, there is my story, maybe excuse if that's what you want to call it. But this time, I am going to do it!

STATS
October 1, 2011: 167 pounds
November 10, 2011: 157 pounds
Goal for November: to lose at least 7 pounds by the end of the month

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T22:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!
This is what I ended up dressing up as to work. It took me about 2 hours to finish the whole look including my hair. I actually had a lot of fun putting this look together. I did end up changing it up a bit and went half Day of the Dead and half as I call it, Pretty Lady.

Products Used:

Day of the Dead side
Halloween white cream makeup followed with Sugarpill Tako eyeshadow to set it.
MAC Blacktrack fluidline to make the black areas followed with Sugarpill Bulletproof eyeshadow to set.
Sugarpill Love+ on the eyelids and the petals around the eyes.
Freshlook colored contacts in grey
For hair, I teased the heck out of it and sprayed with temporary red haircolor.

Pretty Lady side
MAC Studiofix foundation NC42 followed with MAC Select Sheer powder NC40 to set it.
NARS blush in Orgasm on the cheeks
Smokey eye with Sugarpill Love+ on the eyelid and Sugarpill Bulletproof on the outer V and blended above the crease
MAC Blacktrack fluidline on upper and lower lashline
Lined my lips with NYX Plum lipliner and filled it in with MAC Russian Red lipstick.
For hair, I curled in soft big curls (1 1/2" barrel) used a headband with a pretty flower.

And a picture of my 3 boys before we went trick or treating around the neighborhood. Of course, the older boys wanted to be something scary and my baby E is just the cutest in his Elmo costume!

At work, I offered my makeup services to a few of the ladies who wanted to wear a little bit more makeup than they are used to. I wish I had taken before and after pictures because it was a big difference with the makeup I put on them. For the pirate lady (left side), I did a golden neutral eye with a red lip and for the red devil lady (right side), I did a smokey red with a softer red lip and donned false eyelashes on both of them. I was happy that they both liked how it turned out. Again, they hardly wear any makeup and I didn't want to overwhelm them.

A random group picture taken at our company Halloween lunch party.

Another group picture with most of those that participated and dressed up.

I hope you all had a safe Halloween. This year we had a good time at work and at home.

Quick Update

2011-10-30T20:20:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone! I know it's been awhile since I last posted. Every time I sit at my computer, I want to update, but there's so much I want to post about that I just can't pick one topic. Lately though, I've been very busy with work, family and my weight loss challenge that it's been keeping me from my blog. I apologize, but I hope to be back soon.

A couple of months ago, I was promoted into a different department at work so that has been occupying a lot of my time and has got me stressed out. I've also been working on my weight loss. I started earlier in the year but got side tracked and now I'm back in full force. My goal is to lose 40 pounds by May of 2012. I hope I can do it.

As for the makeup artist gig, I've been doing a few jobs here and there, but not fully busy quite yet. I'm still working on building my portfolio and I'm hoping to start booking paid gigs soon.

So I'll be back to share my latest makeup artist adventures and hopefully post up some looks. Thanks everyone for still visiting my blog.

I'll leave you with a couple of pictures, one from my last photoshoot and one of my trial makeup run for my Halloween costume.

Model: Amy Holbrook
Photo by: Barry Druxman
Hair& Makeup by: Jackie H Artistry

my makeup trial run for my costume I'll be wearing to work. I'll probably change it up just a bit on the day of. I'm trying to win the contest we are having at work. The prizes are gift cards.

I update a lot more on these so Like my Facebook page and follow me on Twitter
http://facebook.com/jackiehartistrydotcom
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Walk Now for Autism Speaks

2011-10-03T12:40:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine messaged me about joining this event, "2011 Walk Now for Autism Speaks". Both of his children have been recently diagnosed with Autism. At first, I was just thinking of donating to the cause.

But then I thought to myself, why don't I donate to the cause AND participate in the event. I want to be able to help make a difference, I want to put more effort into something like this. I want to show my support to my friend and his family along with all the other families who has a loved one diagnosed with Autism.

So I registered to be a part of his team. And now here I am, asking you to help support the cause and donate to Autism research. If you'd like and have a few coins to spare, please help donate by using the link below.

Welcome to the Donation Page of Jackie Hanchana

Thank you so much for your support!

SOTW: Jackie H Artistry

2011-10-01T22:16:00.000-07:00

Finally designed my portfolio website! Go check it out, let me know what you think!

www.jackiehartistry.com

my portfolio is hosted on 4ormat.com. Create your own portfolio on 4ormat.com

RAWartists.org presents PULSE

2011-09-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

What is RAW? RAW:natural born artists is an independent arts organization that hand-selects and spotlights independent creatives in visual art, film, fashion, music, hair & makeup artistry, photography, models and performing art.

RAW's mission is to provide up-and-coming artists of all creative realms with the tools, resources and exposure needed to inspire and cultivate creativity so that they might be seen, heard and loved. RAW educates, connects and exposes emerging artists in 22 artistic communities nationwide through monthly showcase events. Join us in celebrating the work of these artists.

Why? I have been chosen and been given the opportunity to be showcased as a makeup artist in this event. I am so excited and wanted to let you all know! Tickets are $10 (available only by presale) to the event.

Please see website for full list of all visual artists and musical artists that will be present that evening.

What to expect? RAW events are multi-faceted artistic showcases. Each event features a film screening, musical performance, fashion show, art gallery, performance art and a featured hairstylist and makeup artist. These artists are all local, hand-picked talent who have been chosen to feature at RAW.

RAW events feature a cash bar for cocktails while you enjoy the night. Dress code is cocktail attire, so dress the occasion and get ready for an artistic circus of creativity!

To view more about the event, please visit RAWartists.org

To purchase tickets or to help support me, please purchase tickets on the event page, RAW: Pomona 10/19/11 and be sure that my name "Jackie Hanchana" is selected in the drop down box. I hope to see you all there!

When: Wednesday, October 19, 2011 @ 8:00PM
Where: Club Carnaval | 342 S Thomas St | Pomona, CA 91766
Details: 21+ event. Cocktail attire. Tickets are $10 via presale.

MUA: With SAW Photographer

2011-09-26T22:31:00.000-07:00

One of the first photoshoots I did (beginning of August) was a fashion photoshoot and with a talented photographer, Steven (SAW Photographer). I also got to work with Project Runway Season 6 winner, Kalyn Hemphill, along with model/actress, Caitlin Fowler. I answered to an ad on Model Mayhem and was contacted by Steven.

I was so nervous as this was my very first photoshoot outside of the realm of my makeup school. Was I ready? Was I going to be able to come up with looks the photographer wants? I was a nervous wreck! Since the studio location was about an hour drive from me, I left early and made it about 30 minutes early before everyone got there. I was able to get set up and check out the looks that the photographer wanted to go with.

As I waited for the models to show up, I was able to strike up a conversation with the fashion designer and the hairstylist. When the models showed up, I was ready to start working and that I did.

As soon as I finished up with Kalyn and the hairstylist got done with her hair, Steven was happy with the turn out. A big sigh of relief for me! My confidence then shot through the roof as I started to work on Caitlin while Kalyn was up first to get her photos taken. I absolutely loved the way their makeup turned out! I was very proud of my work. I took a few behind the scenes pictures. Enjoy!

You can view the rest of the pictures on my portfolio website:
Jackie H Artistry/www.jackiehartistry.com

my setup along with the photos at the top of the ideas the photographer was looking for with Kalyn Hemphill. I am such a shorty compared to her! with Caitlin Fowler. They make me feel so short! haha!

Photo Credit: SAW Photographer Makeup by: Jackie H Artistry

Smoke Free for Three

2011-09-09T22:28:00.000-07:00

divine.ca-Canada’s Online Women’s Magazine

After having been a smoker off and on for a good 10 years of my life, I'm happy to say that it's been exactly 3 years and counting since I quit! Yay me!

Read The Smoking Lady about my failed attempt at trying to start up again.

Have you had success in trying to quit? If you can see the ticker above, you can see that I have saved $2700 by quitting! That's a lot of money!!