My fabulous life

Fat Girl Problems...

2013-10-07T20:49:00.002-07:00

My inner fat girl is in tears. A few months ago, I decided to put myself on a somewhat of a diet. I shouldn’t really call it a diet. It’s more of a life style change! For some reason when I hear the word DIET, I just think RESTRICTION!!! I hate not being to have certain things….or feel deprived of certain things.

Before I started this journey I had looked in the mirror one day and noticed my face getting fatter. BLEH! I started to examine how I looked in pictures before I met my fiancé, and I noticed my face was much thinner. (insert sad face here) Now when taking pictures I have to turn to a certain side to get that slim effect. Lately, it seems that my posing and creating that slim effect is not really working. My inner fat girl was one Big Mac away from winning and I really didn't want her to win.

I knew that if I take it slow and cut things out little by little, it will all become part of my routine! That’s the plan anyway. So far it has been going great; I’ve lost 25 pounds this year! I just feel like I need to step it up a notch! I’d love to double that amount as my goal is to be a healthy and toned size 10/12

I’m really motivated, so I feel like now is the time to really kick ass! Hopefully I won’t have a moment of weakness and mess myself up. You know that moment when you are in the store and you see Hostess products on sale…. You think omg just one….just one! But then you have a whole box you have to finish so it doesn’t go to waste……and then it turns into that whole “I’ll start my diet after I finish the last of those darn Twinkies!” Ugh! I can’t allow myself to do this anymore. I have too many pairs of “skinny pants” that I can’t even squeeze my thighs into. Carbs are killer.

It doesn’t help that favorite food is ice cream....*GASP* I LOVE ICE CREAM!!! It's always a good time for ice cream! My other favorite food is potatoes. I have such an unhealthy relationship with potatoes!! It’s like that movie Forest Gump…. I have this whole Bubba complex about potatoes like how he had about shrimp. I love potatoes all kinds of ways; French fries, mashed potatoes, potato salad, baked potatoes, hash browns, baked potato soup, breakfast potatoes, potatoes with bacon, and potatoes in tacos…. Omg I could go on and on. It has to be the absolute worst food to be your favorite when trying to eat healthier. Speaking of French fries….It’s sad that McDonald’s fries smell that much better when you know you can’t have them!! **Side note: If you know what McDonalds smells like, you are most def. a fat kid at heart!

It also doesn’t help that my fiancé’ is a chef, and is an amazing one at that! He makes everything taste soooo yum! Everything he makes is melt in your mouth flavorful! The risotto, bacon wrapped anything, loaded mashed potatoes, his stuffed chicken….. holy monkey! If I want him to continue cooking for me, I’m going to have to start working out consistently. I think that’s a great trade off!

So here is little list of things I have changed thus far:

1)I don’t drink soda… just tea and water. I don’t even crave soda anymore, which is awesome!

2)No white foods….meaning no pasta, rice, sugar or flour. Everything is whole wheat....splenda is cool…. And I actually love the frozen brown rice from Trader Joes!

There is at least one green vegetable for dinner….at least one.

There is no junk food in my house, which helps.

I can cheat on the weekends but I still won’t drink soda or go too crazy!

And lastly….. I will walk/jog/run/dance/workout 3-5 times per week 30 min (+)

So, wish me luck!! If you enjoy my blogs PLEASE hit the SUBSCRIBE button!!

….here I go….kicking it up a notch..... Starting now!!!!!

Our romantic and wonderful engagment story...

2012-07-25T17:11:00.001-07:00

On July 7th, 2012.... My boyfriend, Petey, and I decided to take a trip out to Santa Monica. When we first started dating I lived over near the beach for the first 8 months. Santa Monica is special to us because we had a lot of our first dates there...including our very first one!

We took off after my nail appointment and went straight to the THIRD STREET PROMENADE (above). For those who are unfamiliar with Santa Monica, it is a strip of shops, restaurants, movie theaters, and street performers, stretching out over a strip of three or four blocks, right near Santa Monica beach. We messed with the merchandise in Brookstone, drooled over wallets (him) and purses (me) at Louis Vuitton, and watched an array of street performers dance, sing, and entertain the crowds for donations.

After walking around and looking in stores like Louis Vuitton, we decide to head over to JERRY'S FAMOUS DELI, in Westwood. Jerry's is one of one our favorite date places where the food is incredible and they give you a platter of pickles while you wait for you food! Yuuuummmm!!! We sat there, laughed at people, ate our yummy food and took pics of our pickle platter. I remember coming here and having dinner with Petey and then walking around the entire neighborhood. We never wanted to leave each other when we would see each other on our date nights. The worst part was always saying goodbye at the end of the night.

The fun did not stop there! We couldn't go to Westwood without going to one of thee most amazing ice cream sandwich shop in all of California (in our opinion). So we had to make a stop at DIDDY RIESE, before going back to the beach to watch the sunset.

The line at Diddy Riese is sooooooo long, but sooooooo worth the wait! It usually continues out of the door and down the street... but for two home made cookies between a scoop of ice cream, its soooooo worth it if you are in the area!

My favorite is the M&Ms cookies with mint and chip ice cream... his is always different! I think this day he picked a white chocolate and a chocolate cookie with Strawberry cheesecake ice cream!

After eating our ice cream and talking about how amazing the day has been we decided to go and watch the Sunset before we headed back to Orange County.

There is a place.... a park, on Ocean Ave. over looking the ocean in Santa Monica. You can see the pier all the way to Malibu Canyons.

On our first date we went to this same spot where I totally fell in love with Petey. He was everything I ever wanted and we had an instant connection, that was strong on both ends. I remember him kissing me there on that first night as we listened to the ocean and talked and walked around as it rained lightly on the both of us.

We went to that same spot, that we so often loved to visit. There is a lil bench there with a deck where you can sit and take in the beautiful scenery. We sat there in our usual spot and cuddled up as we watched the sunset. He told me he loved me and held me tight as the sun went further down. Just as it set he pulled out a box and my heart started to beat really really fast.

He told me he didn't know how to start this but that he felt it was the right time and right place. He told me he loved me and wanted to be with me forever. He told me I made him very happy as I excitedly cried tears of joy and happiness. I told him I loved him too and that he made me sooo sooo happy. He asked me if I would be his wife and be with him forever.

I was shaking and tearing up as he got on one knee and said, "WILL YOU MARRY ME?" and showed me thee most beautiful ring I have ever laid eyes on!

I was excited and shouted, "YES, OF COURSE I WILL!!! I LOVE YOU!!"

He put the ring on my finger and we hugged and kissed and I was just in shock still. I couldn't believe that I was engaged to the man who made all of my dreams come true!

I called everyone so excited!!! Everyone was happy for us, and everyone was thrilled that we were making it official. He is so thoughtful, so romantic, and I couldn't have asked for a better proposal. It was PERFECT!!! He is my person. He is my lover and my best friend and I cannot wait to be his MRS. GARCIA!!!! XoXo

Happy 4th of July!!

2012-07-04T11:06:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone! I'm not very patriotic.... I know that's pretty bad....but I do celebrate with the rest of these crazy Americans. I never went out and bought a 4th of July shirt, or sparkly red, white and blue headbands or glasses but I will BBQ a steak,drink a beer and light fireworks with the rest of them.
Last night, we deliriously put together a two burner gas grill BBQ...omg! Insane! I had no idea of all the hard work involved trying to put together a freakin BBQ. For some reason I thought they came all pretty and finished. When I saw the box I didn't exactly freak out....but when we opened it I was like HOLY MOLY!!!!
Pieces of metal, and valves, and knobs, and screws...AHHHHHHHH!!! Talk about intimidation! I thought we would never finish!
I'm kind of a visual learner, so thank God each instructional step came with pictures! I was able to actually lend a hand in some of the harder parts. Although, there were three times were I got frustrated with Petey and I quit.
The first time I quit I walked over to my laptop and got on facebook while he kept working. The second time I the instruction book down, and picked up my Taco Bell nachos instead. By the third time, I committed to just giving up and sat on a nearby chair and watched. Building a BBQ is hard work!
I'm sure I'm not the only GF who has quit a project on her bf because he was getting frustrated. Girls were not meant for that kind of work! What did he expect?!
I've been spoiled my whole life.... I have three brothers, a father, and grandpa who took care of all the "boy stuff" for me. I never had to pick up a tool or put things together. I'm kind of glad that Petey kind of makes me help or at least shows me things because I don't think I could manage if something happened to him. I'd be sad with a lot of unfinished things that need to be put together!
Maybe if he bought me a pink drill I might be more enthused about building and fixing things.... but then again I think owning a pink drill sounds better than actually using it! Oh well.... maybe one day I'll actually finish a project.
Shout out to my boyfriend, Petey, for taking the lead and getting us thru this difficult task! Did, I mention he is also a chef who is making me a steak later... Mmmmmm!!
Happy 4th of July!!!

-FranQueen XoXo

Review: CARGO 3 Mascara

2010-08-14T23:14:00.000-07:00

I was very excited when I was sent new mascara by CARGO called 3: triple action mascara – the mascara that thickens, lengthens and curls. Finally, a product that takes care of all my needs without having to apply layer after layer of mascara! This mascara combines the latest technology in pigments and styling polymers with a special brush that separates, elongates, stretches and curls the lashes. Loaded with anti-oxidants and 11 amino acids essential for the health of hair follicles, this mascara makes your lashes look and feel great.

The brush wand has an amazing lash comb that tapers at the point and gets wider towards the end. The teeth on the lash comb feel like they are getting each lash and coating it with a hint of mascara. I usually have to apply many coats of mascara to my stubborn lashes but was AMAZED when I used this product for the first time!

The application is smooth and makes lashes thick but never clumpy. It provides length without having to apply numerous coats of mascara, and curls beautifully!!
After applying two coats, I experienced no smudging, nor running. I loved loved loved that it kept my lashes looking luscious and thick without feeling heavy or clumpy!
It also never felt hard or gunky when taking it off at the end of the night !It also washes off easily, might I ass, which is always such a long process with me when wearing the leading brands mascara.

Overall, I’d have to say I am once again very impressed with this CARGO and their new mascara!! Not only am I a loyal fan of their Bronzer but now I am a Lover of CARGO 3 Mascara!!!
I definitely recommend everyone to try this new mascara when it comes out in September 2010! I will be using it for my clients and of course, for myself!

US $20.00

(CARGOCosmetics.com)

Availability: Fall 2010 at Sephora inside JCPenny, Ulta, and Beauty 360 locations.

Vanity Girl Hollywood XoXo

2010-05-15T12:20:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this page one day as I was searching for a new vanity online.

I was in LOVE when I saw the Starlet Lighted Vanity Mirror for the very first time.

It's classy, sassy, and utterly glamorous! I want it now!! heehee

As I browsed the page fully, I came across several of their products that are totally made for makeup divas like me!!

There is the Broadway lighted vanity makeup table, which comes with mirrored bulb lights, that makes getting ready extra magical!

There is also that tabletop Starlet lighted vanity mirror I was talking about...which I'm STILL dying for and they also have a FULL LENGTH lighted vanity mirror!! WOW!!! I know right!!! Awesome!!!

Now you can own a piece of Hollywood glamour in your own home! Could life get any better?!

If you love makeup, love being a glammy girl, or just want to treat yourself to something TRULY FABULOUS...Go online to Vanitygirlhollywood.com and become a fan like me!

Also join them on facebook and/or twitter for awesome topics and posts with glammy glam girls all across the nation!

XoXo FranQueen

http://twitter.com/vanitygirl

http://www.vanitygirlhollywood.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vanity-Girl-Hollywood/207238295185?v=info#!/pages/Vanity-Girl-Hollywood/207238295185

L.A.M.B Worthington bag in Acid Houndstooth print XoXo

2010-05-15T11:46:00.000-07:00

I just died and went to heaven...at least I feel like I have! I went to THE GROVE yesterday in West Hollywood, and scored the most AWESOME handbag at Nordstroms.

I've always been a HUGE fan of Gwen Stefani's "wicked style", and when I saw this Acid Houndstooth print on this Worthington style bag, I HAD TO HAVE IT!

Something in me snapped and I keep thinking, "You will get that purse!" I told myself that for the past month... and every time I went to Nordstroms I tried it on, walked around with it, and drooled all over it. I wanted it so bad, but I've been saving for a new car.

We'll just when I thought it was over for my purse and I, my boss calls me up with the best news ever!

"Have you been a good girl this week?" She asks teasingly.

"Always!" I laugh, "Except this morning when I had to check a lady at Starbucks, but she was cursing in front of a toddler!"

"Oh, we'll that's not your fault," she said agreeably, "Well I have an errand I need you to do for me!"

"Of course, what is it," I asked. Me being a personal assistant to her I was used to doing random errands.

"I want you to go into Nordstroms and pick out a new LAMB bag for yourself on me!" She said, "Just charge it since you are on my account."

"WAIT?! ARE YOU SERIOUS??!!!" I shouted," OMG!!!!! No way, no way!!"

As soon as I hung up, I rushed down Sunset trying to weave in and out of traffic. I literally parked and ran into Nordstroms and my smile was HUGE! Not only was I getting a new purse, but I didn't have to pay for it.

I walked over to the L.A.M.B section, picked up my new Worthington bag, and almost passed out! OK, I'm joking, but the drama queen did unleash a bit that day!!

Truly the BEST gift ever!!

Honestly, you can never go wrong with a L.A.M.B bag....find your own happiness and get one for yourself!!

XoXo FranQueen

Captin Crunch, Crunch Berries Frappuccino®

2010-03-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

Alright, many of you may not know that I was a STARBUCKS employee for 1 week *yawn*... Thats it...one week! It took me THREE days to look down at that horrible green apron, and decide that the job was not FABULOUS, not for me and I couldn't do itany longer... BUT it took me a week to decide that the discount I was getting had to come to an end! *smiles*

Ont thing I did learn was that you can make Strawberries & Crème Frappuccino® Blended Crème, taste JUST like a Captin Crunch, crunch berries frappucinio!!

In order to get that taste you have to place the order a caertain way! If you do exactly what I say you will end up with a frosty, tasty, delightful beverage that happens to taste like a Crunch Berry Frappuccino.

■[Tall/Grande] Strawberries & Crème Frappuccino® Blended Crème + 1 pump Hazelnut + 1 pump Toffenut+1 scoop of choc. chips

■[Venti] Strawberries & Crème Frappuccino® Blended Crème + 2 pumps Hazelnut + 2 pumps Toffenut + 2 scoops of choclate chips

The voice...ROME RAMIREZ xoxo

2010-03-16T22:22:00.000-07:00

ROME RAMIREZ
Born: 1988 in Northern California

Genres: Ska punk, dub, reggae, hip hop
Occupations: Musician, producer
Instruments: Guitar, vocals
Associated acts: Sublime with Rome

Oh wow. Let me breath for a second!!!

I've just finished listening to LAY ME DOWN, with ROME and the Dirty Heads. WOW! He sounds like a DREAM!! I'm loving it and looking foward to hearing him play with SUBLIME on 4/21/10.

McHandsome has this killer myspace profile: http://www.myspace.com/romemusica with samples of his music. ADD HIM!! LOVE HIM!!! and SHOW HIM MAJOR LOVE!!!

Listen to his stuff and get to know my new obsession! LOL

He will def. rock your socks off!

I can't wait to see more from this hunky bunch of talent. We will def. be hearing a lot more of him in the years to come!! at least I hope...

I also found out he was born in NorCaL like me. I think its a sign!!

HAHA just kidding. I can dream tho. right?!

; )

SUBLIMEwith ROME....can't wait!! xoxo

2010-03-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

Fourteen years after Sublime frontman Bradley Nowell died from a heroin overdose, the Long Beach ska-punk trio's surviving original members have decided it's time to revive the name and celebrate the group's musical legacy while attempting to add some new chapters to its story.

Bassist Bud Gaugh and drummer Eric Wilson have teamed with a 21-year-old singer and guitarist named Rome Ramirez(left)! Rome, who uses only one name, says this represents a unique opportunity for a young musician who credits Sublime for inspiring him to pick up a guitar and play music when he was 12.
Im so excited for the show and will be attending the April 21st show in Hollywood CA. I know it wont be the same with out the Late Bradley Nowell....but I am looking foward to hearing the original members play with the awesome, from what I hear, Rome!!

I will def. give my full review after the show.

Corey Haim Collapsed, Prescriptions Found

2010-03-10T08:38:00.000-08:00

Corey Haim collapsed in the bedroom of his mother's apartment and four prescription bottles were found nearby ... law enforcement sources say.

We've learned Corey had been sick the last couple of days with flu-like symptoms. The medications recovered, however, were not related to his illness, sources say.

We're told no illicit drugs were found in the apartment.

Sources say Haim got out of bed just before 1 AM and collapsed in front of his mother. She called 911 at 12:53 AM and Corey was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead at 2:15 AM, at the age of 38.

Corey's mom told authorities he had been battling prescription drug addiction for years.

Authorities believe -- though are not certain -- Corey died of an accidental drug overdose.

LAPD has wrapped up their preliminary investigation and it's now in the coroner's hands.

Two of my favorite movies is LOST BOYS and LICENSE TO DRIVE....two of which he starred in. brings back so many memories....RIP CORY HAIMS.

MAC VIVA GLAM....with Lady Gaga and Cyndi Lauper

2010-03-09T12:38:00.000-08:00

I'm loving all the GLAM in VIVA GLAM! It's a gaga-glamorous...
The M·A·C AIDS Fund and the VIVA GLAM program are the heart and soul of M·A·C Cosmetics. It amazing to have Cyndi Lauper and the Lady Gaga as the newest spokes women for MAC Viva Glam!
I'm dying over the VIVA GLAM Lipstick named after Cyndi Lauper.

Features a high-lustre finish and a light coral-red colour. As with all VIVA GLAM products, every cent raised through the purchase of VIVA GLAM Cyndi goes to the M·A·C AIDS Fund to support the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Light reddish coral (Lustre)
3 g / 0.1 US OZ
US $14.00

I'm dying to try this look!!! So I will be posting pics as soon as I get it right! LOL Should be fun!!

Eyes
Define and shape brows by using 208 Small Angled Brow Brush to apply Copperplate Eye Shadow and Clear Brow Set. Highlight under brows with Bare Study Paint Pot, applied with a 213 Fluff Brush.
Use 242 Shader Brush to apply Forgery Eye Shadow over the inner eyelid, followed by Nehru Eye Shadow and a 224 Tapered Blending Brush. Use 217 Blending Brush and blend Knight Divine and Nehru Eye Shadow to the crease of the eye.
Intensify the upper lashline with Boot Black Liquid Liner. Open up eyes by applying Fascinating Eye Kohl through the waterline of the lower lashes followed by Nehru Eye
Shadow. Add #7 and #21 lashes to the top and #32 lashes to the bottom lash. Apply a generous coat of Zoom Fast Black Lash in Black to the upper and lower lashes.
Eye Shadow - Copperplate
Brow Set - Clear
Paint Plot - Bare Study
Eye Shadow - Forgery
Eye Shadow - Nehru
Liquid Eye Liner - Boot Black
Eye Shadow - Fascinating
Zoom Fast Black Lash - Black

Cheeks
Contour cheeks with Peaches Powder Blush.
Poweder Blush - Peaches

Lips
Hydrate and refine lips by applying Prep + Prime Lip. Define the lip with Cherry Lip Pencil.
Apply VIVA GLAM Cyndi Lipstick. Complete the look with Clear Lipglass.
Lip Pencil - Cherry
Lipstick - VIVA GLAM Cyndi
Lipglass - Clear

Alice in Wonderland....PLEASE READ THE BOOK xoxo

2010-03-09T11:29:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure how many of you have seen Tim Burton's latest masterpiece, Alice in Wonderland, but I advise you PLEASE READ THE BOOK FIRST!!!
As you know, I am a book nerd. So, naturally, I read "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and "Through the Looking Glass", Lewis Carroll.
It made the experience of watching Tim Burton's film, that much more enjoyable!!
The movie pretty much followed the book, although the book is always more detailed, of course. I happened to like how they upped the age in the character of Alice., it made the storyline flow a little better for all of us Old skool Alice in Wonderland fans. Another one of my favorite scenes was Alice walking over the moat full of "cut off heads", as per request of the Queen of hearts. I thought Anne Hathaway did a fabulous job as the white queen, and Johnny Deep...I mean COME ON!! He is Johnny Deep; he can make any movie better!!

The makeup was PHENOMENAL! It was def. my favorite part of the whole movie just seeing the array of colorful costumes and makeup looks. I have to give this movie two thumbs up, BUT Please, read the book before you watch it!! If you have already watched, read the book and then watch it again!! lol

My “Unforgettable” date from Hell

2010-03-09T09:26:00.001-08:00

By: Miss FranQueen
Edited by: Janine Hobson
findiit.org

Have you ever had a date that was so great or so horrible you just can’t forget it? I’ve had many dates, some pleasurable and some dreadful. But there is one haunting date that sticks out to me like the day Janet Jackson “accidentally” exposed her breast on national TV. I was nineteen and as stylish as you can be, with an OLD NAVY wardrobe; on a day care teachers’ salary. My friend Chris hooked me up on a date with his cousin, Eddie, who saw my picture and thought I was HOT. I first asked what he looked like, but he wouldn’t tell me. This should have been my first warning / clue.

“It will take the fun out of it,” he answered excitedly. This should have been my second warning / clue. The only thing he told me was that Eddie was unforgettable. This should have been my third and final warning / clue.

I know what you are thinking, but I’m not that shallow. Looks aren’t so much a factor. I just wanted the gist of his personality. He could have come over looking like Sloth from the Goonies, and I would have given him a chance. Luckily he was far from Sloth. He did however resemble Shrek -except he wasn’t green. He picked me up 40 min. late in his mom’s Nissan, wearing plaid cargo shorts and a NEW FOUND GLORY band t-shirt. Being fashion forward, I looked down at my tight boot cut jeans and Forever 21 halter top, feeling way too overdressed. Already, this was a bad start!

“Have you eaten?” he asked curiously. M y stomach instantly growled at the thought of food. “Starved,” I declared. The next thing I knew he was pulling up to a Jack in the Box drive thru. Really. A drive thru? Are you kidding me?! Great, I’m showing awesome cleavage for a Jumbo Jack! I quickly scanned the menu to distract my mind from registering that I was on a date at a drive thru. I gave my order and he pulled up to the window without ordering for himself. “You’re not hungry?” I asked. He mumbled something about eating before he picked me up as the cashier gave the total. I hesitated and he looked at me bizarrely as if to say, “She needs your money.” Wow! I had to pay for my own food at a drive thru HE took me to?

The fun didn’t end there. He drove off while sticking his hand in the bag and began eating MY fries! I’m not greedy, but I don’t share my French fries! Besides, I didn’t even imply that I was sharing! “We could go to a movie,” he suggested with mouth full of food, “But I need gas.” Oh great, another detour. I was still waiting for the fun to begin.

I started to scarf down my food as he pulled into a gas station. Just as I’m going to bite into my Jumbo Jack, he asks me if I can go pay while he pumps gas. I look at him oddly. “It will be faster,” he says getting out of the car. Without giving me any money! I scowl, walk inside, and drop a $20 on his tank. At this point, I can’t help but get really irritated. He just made me pay for my food AND his gas. I get back into the car and I can’t even finish my burger. My appetite was long gone, and aggravation had quickly taken its place.

I really wanted to go home but I didn’t want to appear rude by ending the date so soon. WAIT! He ate my Fries! We’ve been on this date for 26 min. and I’ve thus far paid for my dinner and his gas. I’VE HAD IT!!

“What do you want to do now?” he inquired. Dumb question!

“I’m not feeling too good, I think that burger made me sick,” I lied, being overly dramatic. “Can you please take me home? I think I’m going to puke!”

“I guess I can take you home,” he whispered dejectedly. We got to my house and I tuned to him saying goodnight. He immediately pulled in for a kiss. A KISS?

I looked at him and groaned. There was no way in hell I was going to make out with this guy wearing a cheesy New Found Glory t-shirt. I put my finger to his lips and said “Um. No.” He leaned back onto his car seat looking very. I got out of the car faster than Speed Racer!!

I shut the front door as I heard him drive off, and sighed with relief. It was finally over.

I never saw Eddie again after that night. I deleted him from my phone and from my life. The only upshot from this date was he earned the title of THE DATE FROM HELL.

After all these years I still think about Eddie and laugh. I guess Chris was right, he was truly unforgettable!

The Benefits of being an independent woman xoxo

2010-03-09T08:26:00.000-08:00

I always thought a guy went crazy for an independent women. A woman who could pay her own way through life, stand her own ground, make decisions, have opinions, and more importantly take care of herself and anyone else who comes along.
Now days, its rare to find a woman who isn't keen on the idea of taking care of herself. But the question is...do guys really like that type? The answer: yes, but you have to find him first!
If you're an independent woman you create your own happiness and your own happy endings. Why wait for a guy to make you feel good when you can take the steps to make yourself feel good! The rule of thumb should be to love yourself before you can fully love someone else.
Here is a scenario I came across recently with a gal pal of mine- She had been talking to a really interesting guy for quite some months, but the two had never taken it past friendship. To get his attention she thought she would "charm the pants off of him" as she put it, and send some cookies to his work. Guys do this with flowers all of the time, so she thought "Hmmm...maybe he will be impressed?" She went through with this plan and sent him a generous platter of gourmet cookies from a West LA cookie boutique. About a couple hours later she received a shocked and thankful text message from the man she was smitten on. Thinking that this was going to inspire him to look beyond their friendship he kindly thanked her for the cookies and went on about his day never calling her again.
Now, it's safe to say he rejected her, but why? Was he scared at such a daring gesture? She put herself out there only to find that he didn't really want to go there. BUT...that's part of being a strong independent woman. The ability to take risks without fear. Taking risks to find that guy who might step up to the plate, and return the gesture. There is nothing wrong with a woman stepping up to the plate and putting herself out there.
She could have easily gone into a whirlwind of depression and a crazy state of mind. Instead, she wrote it off as a sweet thing she once did, and that she would prob. always be remembered by....and on to the next guy she went!
Another situation was with another strong gal pal of mine taking a chance on a grocery store clerk she had been flirting with, all week. She goes into this store for the third time, checking out with the same cashier who had been flirting with her all week. Her smiles at her and blushes and right then she knew he wanted her. They continue to talk, the whole while he can't seem to wipe the smile off of his face. She leaves the store wanting more and so she gets into her car scribbles a her name and number on a piece of paper with the words..."Call me so I can take you to dinner!". She then finds one of his co-workers outside collecting carts and hands him the paper to give to the handsome cashier. She waits a couple days...no call. She waits a whole week, no call. She finally gives up after two weeks, and never returns to the store again.
What went wrong? Nothing! She made a move for something she wanted, and didn't get it. All this means is that she saved herself the time of getting to know someone who wouldn't have been worth it in the end. If he was as strong a man as she a woman then chances are he would have at least called her because it takes a strong person to make such a move, and who wouldn't want someone like that!
Both women finally found guys who were more at their level, and are in completely and utterly in love! All it took was a few risks, a few sweet gestures, and some courage. Alas...the benefits of being an independent woman. You get what you want...when you want it!
An independent woman creates her own happy endings.

Two products I cannot live without!!! XoXo

2010-03-08T14:15:00.000-08:00

I live for makeup... Makeup lives for me! But, There are two products in the whole makeup world, that I cannot, and will not live WITHOUT!

The first product is Primer Potion by Urban Decay, and the other is my MAC #217 Blending brush!

Let me first start off by saying that I have tried an array of eyeshadow primers for my constant oily lids! I went thru. some drama trying to contain my problem. I found some amazing products which work, but one was too fabulous for words among the many.

It was a hot September day in San Diego, about 3 years ago, and my makeup was pretty stay put. I went into Sephora, fresh from doing makeup and using an eyeshadow base by NYX. My shadow wasn't the best looking that day, but it was good enough for Fashion Valley mall!

walked over to the Urban decay section to pick up a Deluxe Shadow Box, for shimmery eyeshadow lovers, and I stumbled upon a girl with perfectly applied shadow on this super hot day! I stood in awe as I asked her how in the world she got her makeup to look so flawless and not melting off like mine?? Her answer was simple. She turned to me, smiled, and handed me a bottle of Urban Decay Primer Potion from the shelf in front of us. "Try it," she said, "You'll never want to live without it!" I kindly thanked her for the advice and went on my way.

As for the blending brush, I bought it a few weeks prior on an unexpected trip to MAC. I was in need of a "good" blending brush and the artist working that day told me she has like 5 of them in her cosmetics bag. I loved it from that point on. It def. makes the colors blend so flawlessly and makes your eyes very alluring! I have tried several brushes to give my eyeshadow the right effect but none of them have worked as great as the #217 brush!

So, on with my story...Later that evening as I got dolled up for the karaoke bar, I applied my makeup using my new primer potion and my favorite MAC #217 blending brush! I was really excited to see the outcome, and couldn't wait to take a picture at the end of the night.

At closing time, 5 hours later, I got into the car and turned on the light to take a photo. I could not believe my eyes!! My eyeshadow stayed put all night long! After a few drinks, my usual oily lids had never looked better. Except for my eyelash which was ready to fall off...it still seemed better than normal other times I came home with half of my eyeshadow creased up on my lids.

(Above)Me: @230am, 6 hours of makeup wear and eyeshadow far from creasing!

Confessions of a Concealaholic by BENEFIT

2010-03-08T13:51:00.000-08:00

Confessions of a Concealaholic, By Benefit
A concealing and brightening kit!

Don't fight it, hide it!! I am loving this awesome concealing and brightening kit!! It contains everything you might need to make your life utterly FABULOUS!! Gotta love BENEFIT!!

I usually have issues concealing different flaws on my face. Out grown eyebrows, a huge pore, a n un-friendly zit...whatever! Its magical!!

Here is my review on each product in this set:

This set contains:
- 0.25 oz "That Gal" brightening face primer
- 2 x 0.04 oz Boi-ing industrial strength concealer in 01 Light (for fair complexions) and 02 Medium (for medium complexions) for custom concealing
- 0.11 oz Erase Paste brightening camouflage for eyes and face in No. 2 (for medium complexions)
- 0.03 oz Lemon Aid (sheer pale yellow) color correcting eyelid primer
- 0.03 oz Eye Bright (pale pink) instant eye brightener
- Concealer Brushes
- step-by-step lesson

That Gal: really does brighten your face! Doesn't do much under the makeup but it does work, totally worth it.

Boi-ing concealer: Works ok. Not the best! I've had better concealers that actually cover up my little acne scars and such.

Erase Paste: It has a creamy consistency and you only need a tiny dab, which makes it last longer. It really does brighten up my under-eye circles.

Lemon Aid: LOVE LOVE LOVE this product! My eyes sometimes look "hungover" tired, even tho. I am never hungover. This product "wakes" them right up! probably the most effective product out of the whole set, and my favorite by far!

Eye Bright: don't really notice a difference with or without it. I've found that my eyes looks better with a bit of sheer cream eyeshadow instead.

OVERALL REVIEW: Definitely worth buying if you want to sample some awesome BENEFIT Products! For myself, I'd probably just invest in the full-size versions of erase paste and lemon aid.

Jerse Shore Re-Mixed!

2010-03-08T13:07:00.000-08:00

The "Jersey Shore" crew is coming back! MTV's most entertaining series, in my oppinion, will return for a second season this summer!!! With 12 episodes in the works, we are in for some more "fist pumping" and G.T.L!
Announced on Saturday JAN 30th, by MTV, that Pauly D, Mike, Snooki, Jenni, Sammi, Ronnie and Vinny will "escape the cold Northeast and find themselves in a new destination."

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for LA!! Wouldn't be awesome to she the cast how we do things on the WEST COAST??!!

Then maybe Ronnie will FINALLY see that there are many beautiful latinas out there willing and waiting....*fingers crossed*

LA CANDY...yawn xoxo

2010-03-08T12:20:00.000-08:00

I picked up LA CANDY from the Brentwood library, glad to FINALLY be able to read it. Turns out...I was bored. It wasn't what I thought it was going to be. Very disappointing!

I was expecting a little more drama. No, let me re-phrase that- a little more "REAL" drama. I wanted the stuff that really happens. The honest low down dirty on what really goes on out here in LA, but it was a little to soft for me. It was basically a cross between Queen bees and Wannabes by Rosalind Wiseman, and The truth about Diamonds, by Nicole Richie.

Both of which I have read. Its a fun book if you have absolutely nothing fun in the world to do...but I'm sure you fabulous people do. Truth is I'd rather have played with my makeup!

kandee Johnson: makeup Godess!!

2009-09-08T15:02:00.000-07:00

I was surfing around on YouTube one night....trying to get some tips for defining my eyebrows. I know, I know I'm always having issues with my eyebrows!!! Anyway...stumbled upon one of thee best channels ever!!! (in my opinion anyway, which matters the most lol)
Her name is Kandee Johnson, and she is one AWESOME makeup artist!!! Her videos and very helpful and fun and what she can do with a makeup brush is absolutely FABULOUS!! I couldn't help but sit there and watch every video she made and pick up all of these new tips and awesome tricks (which I am using now, BTW)
I really really like her style because she is very down to earth and gives you an example of a cheaper product to use that would work just as well. I think that's really important to those who cannot afford great makeup but still want to look A LIST!! There is no shallowness, snobbishness, or prissiness with her....Which is why I like her! She is THE BEST at what she does but does not act like it!!
She is def. a makeup artist to learn from and look up too!
She actually has her own blog which you can view at kandeethemakeupartist.blogspot.com
Her channel on YouTube is http://www.youtube.com/user/kandeejohnson?feature=chclk
or her new KANDEE SHOW channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/thekandeejohnsonshow

Check her out for yourself and become a FAN just like I am!!! You will be glad you did!!!

IMPRESSED with COASTAL SCENTS makeup!

2009-07-18T14:24:00.000-07:00

I received my 88 color palette and my 88 ultra shimmer palette.....AND my true black gel liner and OMG!!!! I am SUPER D' DUPER IMPRESSED!! The palettes are fabulous! I love all of the colors and they come out so bright! Before I get excited again, let me start off with the gel liner.

First of all, I am a BENEFIT BAD GAL eyeliner pencil kind of girl and have been for a very ling time! I am now switching to Coastal Scents TRUE BLACK gel liner! The product goes on smooth and dark (which I LOVE) and stays put all day long!!! I only had to apply it once!! Just one line across my top lid and I was AMAZED! Usually it takes a couple of lines to darken it up, with CS I only had to do it ONCE. Just ONCE! This is exactly what I look for my idea of a perfect eyeliner, so this is why I was so impressed. I might just have to put in a standing order!

As for the palettes... WOW! The colors are so vibrant and you don't need to cake it on your eye lids. They are the smoothest, prettiest colors for the BEST PRICE ever! The thing I loved the most was that the colors blend easily to make the hottest eyeshadow combinations. I touched it once and the color stayed on my finger. View the pic below to see how awesome the color comes out! They are great for doing any colored smokey eyes! I am dying right now!!! I am def. using Coastal Scents more often then I will my MAC collection!
I was VERY HAPPY with my products and will most def. be ordering from Coastal Scents in the future!

Man of the MONTH (JULY): ALBERT PUJOLS

2009-07-14T14:10:00.000-07:00

Each month I am doing a piece called HUGS and KISSES, where I will honor a new guy who has demonstrated achievements in looks, personality. strength, character, purpose, drive, and good will.

My pick for the "Man of The Month" for JULY, is none other than Mr. Albert Pujols!!

José Alberto Pujols Alcántara. Born on January 16, 1980, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, better known as Albert Pujols, (nicknamed Prince Albert, Sir Albert, Phat Albert, El Hombre, and The Machine) is a Major League Baseball first baseman for the St. Louis Cardinals. Pujols is 6' 3" and weighs 230 pounds. (YUM!)

Not only is Pujols an amazing athlete he is also a great husband and father and has one of the biggest hearts!! He and his beautiful wife, Deidre, have a foundation to promote awareness, provide hope and meet tangible needs for families and children who live with Down syndrome. (How can you not love this guy?!)

As you may know, Albert and Deidre Pujols have a beautiful daughter with Down syndrome. Since this is so close to their hearts, this Foundation is dedicated to the love, care and development of people with Down syndrome and their families.

You can check out more of this on their website http://www.pujolsfamilyfoundation.org/

BIG HUGS and KISSES to ALBERT PUJOLS for being named my man of JULY!!

Super Kawaii products by Harijuku Lovers

2009-07-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

OK, I LOVE the Harajuku brand by Gwen Stefani! Its a cute line with WICKED STYLE!!! I love everything by Gwen Stefani BUT I think the harajuku label is really fun, unique, and affordable! Also, They have so many cute products that you can pick up as gifts for other people. I am going to show you a few of the items that recently caught my eye that you can pick up at a SPEHORA location or on Sephora.com

Sephora has a super cool G by Harijuku lovers, gift set for $50. G is an AWESOME scent of oriental, fruity, gourmand fragrance with notes of fresh coconut, jasmine, and cotton woods and comes in a super kawaii bottle that looks like a mini Gwen Stefani figurine. It ships for free!!!

The gift set (shown left) comes contains a 1.0 oz Eau de Toilette Spray and a 0.04 oz Solid Perfume all in a cute and colorful nifty gift box.

I have this perfume in a 1 oz. spray and I get soooo many compliments on it....even more than I have gotten on my VERSACE BRIGHT CRYSTAL perfume! It's a very unique and pretty smell that lasts the whole day. Some perfumes' fragrance doesn't really stick as well as this one. There is no DISAPPOINTMENT with this product. Perfect for a females present of any age!

Also at Sephora, from the HL line, is a really sweet, vibrant colored collection of makeup bags from the Love Ice Cream Bag Collection.

This collection includes:- Brush Case (holds brushes, pens, or pencils)- Clutch- Organizer- and Travel Bag!

Prices range from $20-$48

The bags come in a very generous size. I fell in love with the Travel bag! Its very spacious which is what I tend to look for in a makeup bag. Also, it wipes clean which is super important! I know I tend to sometimes spill or drop makeup on accident, so its nice to know my bag won't be damaged if I have another clumsy episode!!! Totally worth the money and it makes an awesome gift for someone who has a "Fatal attraction for cuteness"!!!

The Solid Fragrance Coffret is a definite MUST HAVE set of five solid fragrances to express your different styles! I have those days where I am feeling girly and sweet and other days where I am feeling cool and calm. This set is perfect for expressing one of those moods!

The Coffret $65(shown right) includes:

Love: A sweet and soft scent

Angel: A sexy fragrance

Music: A cool scent with a bit of attitude

Baby: Super sweet and girly

G: A strong unique style of its own

Be sure to check these items out!!! The pictures do not do them justice!! They Fragrances smell INCREDIBLE and the makeup bags are to die for!.....'Cause it's super kawaii; that means super cute in Japanese!!!

Love the One You're With

2009-07-13T13:55:00.000-07:00

LOVE THE ONE YOU'RE WITH by: Emily Giffin

OMG! Amazing! I've just got done reading this book and I was very happy that I bought it!

First of all, Emily Giffin is just amazing. If you haven't read her last two books SOMETHING BORROWED/SOMETHING BLUE...you NEED to get on it!!

This book is about a woman re-connecting with her first true love, and searching her heart and soul, while pondering questions like "What would my life have been like if we had worked out?" There are some women who might have this in the back of thier head at random times, and some women who know breaking up with thier EX was the best decision they could ever make!! Either way, this book will have you on the edge of your seat while thinking back on your own past, and the decisions you have made in life!

Look for it at Target stores, Branes & Noble, or online at amazon.com

You will not be dissapointed!!!

Coastal Scents

2009-07-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

I've been very curious about the makeup products from Coastal Scents. I LOVE makeup, but I also love quality makeup. So far, from what I've seen online, it seems as if Coastal Scents might be my next lover....move over MAC! More affordable when compared to other makeup brands, but works just as well on any skin tone. They have a selection of FABULOUS finished palettes with an aray of colors!!

I've Just orderd my CS 88 palettes in MATTE, and in SHIMMER. I've also orders the "TRUE BLACK" gel liner I've been hearing so much about!!

Check back for my next BLOG to see my full review of each product!!