Miss Iris B

Holidays are here

2024-10-28T20:15:00.005-07:00

The holiday season is here

Starts with my favorite Halloween, followed by Día De los Muertos, my Birthday, Thanksgiving, Christmas and ending with New Year’s Eve!

Growing up each holiday meant I would be gathering up at someone’s home. A must of seeing relatives, eating feasts of delicious food, pastries, drink and music!

These are the twins from the Shining, dressed to impress in their BeetleJuice Costumes! If you want to experience their visually and fashionably impeccable outfits in person you can catch them at The Alamo Drafthouse in Downtown LA. You can see them in different outfit throughout the year that coincidentally commemorate a movie of its time.

Always show up 30-45 minutes before the movie to allow parking and to be in awe form the movie posters, drinks and collectible swag all over the theater.

Eating food nowadays

2022-12-01T20:42:00.001-08:00

Ever notice how people take pictures of their food without even enjoying their first bite? What if their eyes were deceived and then repulsed by the first bite? Do they delete the picture or keep it since it looks amazingly palatable?

This is only what a food critic used for do before the iPhone was in every persons hand. I’m guilty & yet equally hate doing it. My mind transcends into an out-of-body experience that forgets any sensible thought to actually just eta the food. All I can think of is FOMO, the ritual of picture taking deprives me from tasting the actual food I’m supposed to consume. I become another bright eyed Southern CA gal with her phone out as food is place in front of me.

Here some random donuts, salads, drinks and tasty bites I’ve had in 2022: totally not even 1/500 of all the meals I’ve consumed. Can’t wait for the month of December commence, and end with a gastronomic bang.

Donut from Las Vegas

Bite taken to make sure it was delicious

Detention in Santa Ana CA

Death & Co, DTLA

Tantalum, Long Beach CA

Detention, Santa Ana

Taco Maria, Costa Mesa CA

Tarantino never disappoints

2019-07-30T02:25:00.001-07:00

Amazing time in Hollywood to watch Once upon a Time in Hollywood.

Delicious Fruit infused water

2018-01-14T17:18:00.000-08:00

You can choose many variations, such ad=

1.lemon slices

2. Cucumber and mint

3. Watermelon and basil

4. Cucumber only

What I made here.

5. Cucumber, watermelon, mint and 2 Splenda .

No matter what you decide, to only need about half cup of fruit.

Let it sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Enjoy, this Is NOT meant to be like soda or a milkshake, so it’s light in flavor. More for freshness and especially for people who have a hard time drinking plain water.

Finally my braces are off

2016-03-30T22:52:00.001-07:00

It's been over 2 years and finally my braces are off.

The baby tooth on my upper right side (canine) that has caused this entire ordeal is long gone.

The pic you can see that my canine was tiny and dark. After my daughter was born that baby tooth shrank and then a piece of it broke off and I started getting a cavity. Since I was a kid the dentists took X-rays of my entire mouth and said I have no adult canine to move into the baby tooth canine area. Bummer!!!

Well, I took tons to care of my teeth to prevent it breaking of damaging it, until my pregnancy as I've already said.

I was given a few options regarding replacement:

1. remove the baby canine and add a tooth the hooks-up/ flips into the back called "flipper". The issue, I would always have to remove it to eat, sleep and brush my teeth. Plus, the natural teeth would shift into that area and the gap would have bone loss.

2. Remove it, file the two teeth next to the baby canine to make a bridge. But that would file down two good teeth!!! Plus you need to replace the bridge every 10 years. Plus the attached teeth shrink!!! What an ordeal. Plus bone loss would still occur and a possibility that the two teeth next to it would begin bone loss and in about 20 years they would fall off as well. I consider this the tooth loss domino effect! No thanks!!!

3. Remove it, get braces to expand the area and get an implant that will look like my natural tooth and not damage the other two teeth.

I went with option 3. The pics below are about three months after braces were put in...

I got porcelain braces as you can see here, and a fake tooth was attached to the braces to fill in the empty space. First the space had to be expanded to fit a regular sized canine ( twice the size of baby canine). That itself took about 9 months, plus although my teeth weren't crowded or too crooked, my bottoms were attaightened and two of my last bottom molars were turned about 45 degrees. All that messed with my bite and ended up having to wear elastic a for about 6 months at the end to straighten my bite.

I do have to add that the orthodontist showed me an X-ray of my teeth and said my two upper had shortened roots. That simply means he has to do my treatment slower than others or the roots would shrink even more and fall out. Scary!!! So something that could have taken 15-18 months to correct took 25 months.

Here you can see the empty space I have now that my braces are out:

Now I need bone graft since there is no bone in the area that was stretched. For now I only need to wear my retainers at night and the top one if I want to pretend I have no gap during the day. Here is my teeth with retainer and fake tooth attached to it.

I plan on getting the bone graft in June 2016, since it's quite a bit of money. Plus, it has to heal for 7-9 months, the plan is to have the implant beginning of next year.

This is taking forever, but I know I will love my smile for decades to come once the entire treatment is concluded. Hopefully I won't have teeth issues as a senior citizen.

Sleep overs

2015-05-19T18:32:00.001-07:00

Remembering when I was in first grade seems like such a long time ago because it really was. That's over 30 years ago.

Here's some great sleep over activities recently noted.. Eating hotdogs, fruit, making s'mores, watching a movie in a sleeping bag.

Wow! S'mores anyone?

Great way to spend the night

Make you wanna join the fun, doesn't it?

Prince says, you can't baby!!

Awesome flashback weekend

2015-04-01T19:51:00.001-07:00

I went with my lovely girlfriends to check out several 80s new wave cover bands. There was Billy Idol band, The cure, the Smiths (Morrissey) and Depeche mode. Here's a few pics,I know none look like the actual bands mentioned, but they're cover bands. They sound far better than they look.

Plus,I got toasty and has a blast while at the front row of the concert!!! Woohoo!!

Check out the pacman ice sculpture

Santa Ana really has changed

2015-03-12T10:09:00.001-07:00

I had a chance to visit the new Santa Ana East End Shop center. It's located an a renovated building that used to be full of little gift shops and had an indoor swap mall feel.

Well that look and feel certainly isn't there anymore. The place has ultimately changed and virtually unrecognizable from its old business model. It has many food vendors ranging from fresh Asian noodles, home made sausages, gourmet cookie ice cream sandwiches, pulled belly pork sandwiches, Asian/Mexican fushion burritos, fresh squeezed juices, Mexican Popsicles (paletas), Portola coffee, a beer/wine bar and a wine and cheese shop.

I was extremely impressed with the quality of the food displayed and also the location has a back patio with graffiti art filled with local artists work. Plus tables are huge butcher blocks and bars stools fill the place. This is a place to go alone or with others and enjoy a nice lunch or impromptu meal.

Here's a good article from the OC register with more info: http://www.ocregister.com/articles/food-650513-quinn-street.html

I'm providing a picture of the Portola coffee shop that smelled amazing, but I didn't have time to sample any since I was in a rush. They even roast, package and make their coffee drinks. It reminds me of Intelligencia coffee shop in Hollywood located next to ArcLight theater.

My pick of the day was a poke bowl from MAR. Which was $8 and includes fresh tuna, arborio rice, w/ garlic ginger sauce, topped with avocado, sesame seeds and two spicy sauces on the side.

I'm sure going to visit this new location soon.

Alejandra... American girl

2014-11-27T06:58:00.001-08:00

So last year for Christmas I bought my daughter what she knows as her American Girl doll. However, it's not AG, hers is a replica purchased at Target for only $15. That's 1/10th of the price of an AG doll.

She absolutely adores her doll. She has even cried if it's falling on the floor, if she's forgotten it at home, or if her doll simply doesn't sit the way she wants it to. It's completely adorable how much she adores the doll.

We visited the American girl store on Valentine's Day. I purchased an outfit for Alejandra and had a memorable lunch at their Cafe. Alejandra has the exact proportions of the AG doll so Zoe didn't even realize it's not an AG doll. Here some pics at the cafe with an AG doll she was given to carry with her during the visit.

The very next day she even slept with Alejandra wearing her new ballerina outfit.

Just the other day while she was gone and left her at home I was mischievous and posed Alejandra in different poses. Almost as if she missed my daughter it's so cute

My next purchase for Alejandra is probably going to be a wardrobe closet. Currently she has about 16 different outfits to wear along with accessories. She even has real American girl dog called Honey.

I really think this was the most used and greatest use of $15 I spent on anything.

Halloween q&a special at the Egyptian theater

2014-10-05T15:13:00.001-07:00

Thats the director and actress of the 1978 cult classic, Halloween. Yes Jamie Lee Curtis and John Carpenter.

It was amazing to see them together. Apparently it's been over 10 years since they've done a q&a and this is also the last.

It's one of my favorite movies and I feel so special to have been honored to see this.

San Diego with the gals

2014-10-05T15:10:00.001-07:00

I had an amazing time with my girlfriends in San Diego visiting, walking, shopping, eating and most of all just spending time with girls.

New haircut

2014-06-17T06:13:00.001-07:00

So far it's been 8 months

2014-06-16T00:42:00.001-07:00

I can't believe 8 months with braces so far. My teeth will look awesome

3 months with braces

2013-12-22T10:57:00.001-08:00

I had to go to orthodontist to have rbberbsnds and wire replaced.

This is how's teeth look without them on, and how embarrassing, you can see the gap. My missing baby tooth is obvious without the fake one that's attached to the braces.

Delicious cupcakes

2013-11-23T14:56:00.001-08:00

Best cops in Long Beach

2013-11-20T17:50:00.001-08:00

36 years old with braces

2013-11-15T19:24:00.001-08:00

Do you want to be a markgirl?

2012-02-13T11:00:00.001-08:00

If you want to be on-trend like me, hang out with girls who also love fashion, jewelry, make-up, beauty products, fragrance while earning money?
You should consider becoming a mark Independent Representative.
You have your own hours, you could even be a rep just for the discount you receive and the ability to see and try products before they cone out to the public.
If you're a student, full time employed, housewife, a make up artist or just love mark on-trend affordability then becoming a rep will be perfect for you.

: Click here to be a markgirl>
and use REFERRAL CODE 6571954 when you sign up. That code will show that I helped you join mark.
How much will it cost: It will cost you $20 to join.
Mark will send you about $100 worth of product, magalogs, samples and THEN for using my referral code, I will personally will send you a $20 mark gift.

I have attached a pic of the stuff mark is currently sending you if you join:

make up bag $12
Get a tint face make up $13
Hook up mascara $6.50
Hook up lipgloss $6.50
Mini brush set $16
Super flip color kit $20
2 imarks eyeshadows $11 for both
1 glow blush $8
2 minis to fill, $8 for both

Once you join, please write down your customer id number and password. Then you can email me at irissb.markmentorassistant@gmail.com Or missirisb@yahoo.com
I will contact you and able to show you the ropes, how to set up your eboutique, place your first order, inform you on how to receive your mark discount, rep only offers and checkout codes, etc.

Host a mark party

2012-02-10T14:43:00.001-08:00

How would you like a free gift and money by inviting 5+ girls over to your home, for drinks, appetizers and having me go for an hour and a half to show them some of the latest items and getting 25% discount any order YOU place that day??

If that sounds easy for you to to do send me an email at missirisb@yahoo.com so we can schedule a party.

I live in long beach.
Parties can be hosted : Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside counties.

*Try to schedule party 2-3 wks ahead.
* invite 5+ people, typically 50% show
* set a 2 hour time frame, but schedule it for an hour and a half. People tend to stay after the hour and a half. Or some show up late.
* just for hosting I will give you $20 mark gift
* just for hosting you get 25% off your order
* if you sell over $400, mark will give you a hostess gift!!!!
* if you sell over $250+ I will give you $25 cash at the end of your party!!!

So you can get free products, money and huge discount on your order just by hosting a party for 2 hours.

Valentines day is almost here

2012-02-08T20:56:00.001-08:00

Right now mark loves you. If you purchase $30 on my website you'll get two free hook-ups absolutely free and free shipping by using code MARKVDAY12 Go to www.mymarkstore.com/ibarriga for your free hook-ups!!!! You have until valentines day. Wanna get some free mark stuff, go on listia using this link

Grey faux leather jacket

2012-01-24T11:05:00.001-08:00

I've had my eye on a grey leather jacket for maybe 6 months. However, all the ones I find are over $250. Plus, living in Southern California it's not like I need it for the cold weather, or a necessity, it's more of a fashion accessory.

I'm so lucky mark just came out with a faux leather jacket for just $75!!!! Plus, you get free shipping since the purchase is over $30. The really cool thing with the mark jacket is that it has different material on the back. Making the mark jacket very light and usable all year round in so. Cali.

There is a similar jacket on asos website going for $240. Check out the site: : Click here to view the asos jacket >

I have included a pic of both jackets for your review.

: Click here to purchase your mark jacket at www.mymarkstore.com/ibarriga >

Mushroom rice soup

2012-01-22T16:46:00.001-08:00

I decided to make the mushroom and farro soup found on smitten kitchen website. However i had to modify the recipe since I used up all the farro on a salad last night. Clearly, I thought I had a full/new bag of in my cubby when I began this recipe, Ugh!!!

When I was done it was soooooooooo delicious eventhough I put long grain white rice in it instead of farro and instead of just onion and carrots I used onion, carrots and 3/4 cups celery. Everything else is pretty much like the recipe found on: http://smittenkitchen.com/2011/01/mushroom-and-farro-soup/

Plus, it's healthy, filling and with lots of texture. I think next time I will even add Half a pound of sliced sirloin steak to the pot. That would make it even heartier. I give the smitten kitchen soup 5 out of 5 stars, 10 out of 10 points, 2 thumbs up.

Below is a pic of the farro salad I made last night, I had that with salmon slice. Plus, also pic of the mushroom rice soup which was beyond delicious.

My Recipe to farro/tabulleh salad:

Cook 1/2 cup dry farro to directions
(basically cook in quart of boiling water for 15 minutes, drain, set aside to COOL off, it will make about 1 cup cooked farro)

1 large cucumber diced
2 Romano tomatoes diced
3 green onions sliced
1/4 cup red onion (or just add mire green onion, I like using both for different flavors each has)
1/4- 1/2 cup minced parsley (to make more tabulleh flavored add more parsley not just 1/4 cup)

Dressing:
Lemon juice-1 lemon
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/8 teaspoon cumin (a pinch)
1/8 teaspoon oregano (a pinch)
1/4 teaspoon dry mint
1 minced fresh garlic or pinch garlic salt
Pinch of salt and pepper

1. Cook the farro and set aside to cool off
2. Dice all the veggies and mix into the farro on large salad bowl
3. Mix the dressing separately then add to the salad bowl
4. Let it sit for 20 minutes to overnight before serving

This will serve 4.
Prep time 25 minutes

Now for mark: mark will be coming out with 16 shades of make up: mark powder buff and min-a-real foundation make up beginning March 2012!!! I'm so excited. If you'd like to see other things on my site see my mark website.

Eating healthy Vs. Eating with foods u can purchase in Sun. Paper

2012-01-21T13:14:00.000-08:00

I dont know about most of you, but I honestly try to eat as healthy as possible 90-95% of the time. The other 5-10% I allow myself to eat junk, crap stuff that really isn't good for me but my taste budspalettete, stomach seems to crave.

My biggest problems with healthy eating is finding veggies and foods that are reasonably priced. They tend to be more expensive than unhealthy choices and fresh produce like veggies, salad ingredients, or healthy meats rarely have a coupon or discount price.

Here are some ideas to help you save a few bucks while purchasing cheeper staples for your healthy menu ingredients.

1. find an ETHNIC MARKET near you. They usually have fresh veggies and meats cheaper than reg grocery stores. And this works no matter what ethnicity u choose.
I've been to
* Vietnamese market in little saigon, I can buy fresh fish for 40-60% when compared to local chains. And noodles, soy sauce and other asian staples are beyond cheap as well.
* Mexican markets, in Santa Ana, e. Los angeles and westmister (el ranchito) All fresh veggies, meats and pre made foods are like 30-60% off. Especially cilantro, tomatoes, avocados, queso fresco and canned salsas/soups/condiments.
* Greek market, only been to one in Anaheim and it's the same experience there as well. I was able to get fresh olives, feta, meat already seasoned to make kabobs, pita bread, fresh parsley for again up to 60% cheaper than the chain grocery store.
* Cambodian market in long beach. This was the best experience, I bought beyond cheap staples for soups, fresh veggies, fish chips, soy sauce, fish sauce, cocunut water, coconut milk. Again same discounts.
2. Go.
3. Be prepared to find many items youve never seen. Don't be scared most of the labels will have some English. Plus, from my experience the employees are fluent enough in English to guide you to what you want. Remember these stores are catered and intended for newer American immigrants who still eat many of their cultures food,and this is a PLUS for your pocket!!!

So, I highly recommend those type of markets to help you eat healthier food without having to wait for the Sunday paper coupons. MOST of the Sun paper coupons are just huge brand name, pre-package, loaded with salt and preservatives type of food anyway. Plus, most are not freshly made products.

My challenge today, to go to the ethnic market and take $20-$25 for fresh produce.

I Will post a pic and description of my purchase later.

Girl with a dragon tattoo

2012-01-20T11:55:00.001-08:00

So if you read the books and watched the movie you probably either love or hate the jewelry worn by Lisbeth Salander played by Rooney Mara.

Personally, I like changing my look one day to the next and when I feel in dark gothic type the ring she wears are phenomenal for that.

I especially like the ring that looks like a line on your knuckes and it can be found for $264 on bijules nyc website. http://www.bijulesnyc.com/default/girl-with-the-dragon-tattoo-rings.html
Honestly, I personally can't afford that,but if you can visit the site.

I will be getting a ring similar in look but for only $16, it's called the mark walk the line ring. It's not exactly the same, but it will satisfy my jewelry need since it does the same thing: rest on your knuckles as a line.

Go to my site to purchase the $16 ring : Click here to purchase your mark products at www.mymarkstore.com/ibarriga >

Goth skull ring

2012-01-06T10:20:00.001-08:00

So I love skull rings and if you do too I have two great suggestions based on your budget. Both look very similar and I'm sure you're outfit will be complete with either one just the same.

One is by designer Alexander McQueen iris and skull ring, its absolutely awesome. The two skulls are facing eachother and it's $225, you can see the item on zappos: http://couture.zappos.com/n/p/dp/69527484/c/282782.html. I have also provided a pic below.

Then there is a mark double skull ring which is very similar to the McQueen except not the price tag. The mark describes it as a goth-meets-glam design, perfect for the hardcore fashionistas, burnished brass with clear glass beads. Mark is selling it for $16 beginning 1-17-2012. If you'd like to have one sooner paypal the $16 to missirisb@yahoo.com. Or u can wait to purchase it later on my website : Click here to purchase your mark products at www.mymarkstore.com/ibarriga >

I have included below pic of the mark double skull ring and at that price you can multi stack it and wear three mark rings like the mark model and still only pay $48 (3 at $16 each).