The Impossible Life

Tea Tree Oil: Does it really work?

2012-03-08T20:33:00.000-08:00

Lately, my skin has been for lack of a better word: CRAZY. Now, I have never had perfect skin. In fact, after High School I definitely struggled with some major breakouts. I turned to a fad, ProActiv, which actually worked for me. I only used it for about a year or two as I saw it start to put a huge hole in my (okay, my mom's) wallet, as well as when I started to research skincare and kept reading about how things such as this skincare line can strip your skin, and actually lead to more breakouts. So, I stopped. I didn't see a huge change in my skin...until now.

I'm not sure if it's because I turned 25 (hormones?) or if it's the insurmountable amount of stress that I have been under lately, but my skin is angry, angry, angry.

Now, I've heard things about Tea Tree Oil being a great spot treatment, but I've never really given it a shot. However, that is all about to change! I did some grocery shopping earlier today at Trader Joe's (love them), and stumbled upon a little bottle of 100% Tea Tree Oil. Since it is concentrated, they suggest diluting the oil with some water before applying to skin to avoid irritation.

I have a couple of active breakouts (read: volcanoes) on my face which I plan to attack with this bad boy tonight. I will most definitely update on the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of this natural treatment. Till then, anybody have any advice, stories, etc?

Year Hiatus

2012-03-08T19:41:00.000-08:00

I can't believe almost an entire year has passed since my last post. So much has changed since then.

In September of 2011, I, along with a couple of friends went to Burning Man. To say it was a life changing experience is putting it mildly. Upon my return, everything changed. Whether I wanted it to or not. One of the biggest changes than came about was having my heart completely and irrevocably shattered. Yes, I know- I sound quite melodramatic, but at the time (and still from time to time...) it felt like the end of the world. In a sense it really was the end of the world. At least it was the end of my world and life with someone who I honestly felt that I could someday marry. The reality of that relationship was that we not only grew apart, but we were never really right to begin with. What I want from a relationship, he could never give me. And what he needed, well...I still don't know what he wanted from me. I don't even think he knows. It has taken me a long time to get to this point, and there are still days that I struggle with it.

Another change which happened exactly 1 week ago is that for the first time in my 25 years on this Earth, I have moved out from under my parents thumb. Not to say that I was ever really under their thumb, but it sounds dramatic and exciting so just go with it. And it really IS exciting. And terrifying. But mostly exciting.

I have moved to Carlsbad, CA (roughly 1 mile from the beach!) and am itching for summer to arrive. While it may sound utterly cliche, I feel like this is only my beginning. I don't know why, but I have an inkling that this summer may be a catalyst to some extraordinary things that are in my future. I just wish I knew what these extraodinary things are.

Natural Disasters

2011-03-11T13:21:00.000-08:00

I hate natural disasters, and wish they would go away. However, it never ceases to amaze me the amount of kindness, love, and support that comes out of a tragedy such as this.

Want to help?

Text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 to the Japan and Pacific tsunami relief.

Want updates?

Follow @CNN on Twitter or visit http://www.cnn.com/.

xo

Erno Laszlo: Unlock the beauty of your skin

2011-03-08T01:30:00.000-08:00

When it comes to skincare, I am constantly on the lookout for the next big thing to implement into my skincare routine. Unfortunately, I also suffer from combination skin (oily in the T-zone area, but dry patches throughout) that is extremely sensitive so implementing new products into my skincare routine sometimes takes a bit of a leap of faith, and a lot of trust.

Recently, my mom and I went to Neiman Marcus to return a few things, and while browsing I met a makeup artist by the name of Danielle. Besides being beautiful, Danielle was very knowledgeable about various aspects of the beauty world, including skincare. I noticed that her skin was not only smooth and blemish free, but also had an amazing glow that is wanted by so many, but very hard to achieve. After a bit of discussion, I realized that we had used a lot of the same products, had a lot of the same issues, and had a similar skin type. Eager to learn more about how she achieves such radiant skin, I asked her what her go to skincare product was. Her answer was Erno Laszlo’s Sea Mud Soap.

The "Splashing Technique"
Credit: Google Images

I had never heard of Erno Laszlo before, so I decided to do a little research of my own before venturing into a skincare line that may lead me down a path I really didn't want to go down. What I found out was this:

Dr. Erno Laszlo was the first to launch a "dermatologist branch."

He was the first to create personalized skincare rituals, introduce a skincare system for men, formulate sunscreen and products with PH-balance, and even the first to design water-based skincare for oily skin.

Lastly, Erno Laszlo has been around since 1927, and is a revolutionary in the skincare world. One of the best things about their line is that they don’t have a “one size fits all” mentality, but rather acknowledge the fact that everybody’s skin is different and believe in a personal prescription for every skin type.

After doing the proper research, I happily went to Nordstrom located at UTC to see the products for myself and possibly speak with a representative or specialist that could steer me in the right direction. The reps at Nordstrom were more than eager to share their experience with the Erno Laszlo brand, and even gave me an informative booklet on all of the products that are separated in different categories. These categories are: cleansers, toners, moisturizers, anti-aging, eye care, special care, acne, brightening, body care, and finishing. After going through this booklet, I was more than ready to purchase the Sea Mud Soap which goes for $39, but was instead prompted to take home a sample size of the soap to make sure it was exactly what I was looking for. I have been using the sample size of the Sea Mud Soap for a couple of days, and can already notice significant changes in my skin.

If you find that your skincare routine is in a rut, or just feel like implementing a new product into your routine then this skincare line may be just what you're looking for. You can learn more about this and other products by visiting www.ernolaszlo.com, or by speaking with a representative of Erno Laszlo located in Nordstrom at 4545 La Jolla Village Drive San Diego, CA 92122.

Continue reading on Examiner.com: Erno Laszlo: Unlock the beauty of your skin - San Diego Makeup | Examiner.com

Are you hiring?

2011-03-07T16:22:00.000-08:00

My first post on this blog (which you can read here), discussed my "interviews blues" and how absolutely frustrated I was by the lack of jobs that are out there. Unfortunately, the blues have creeped up on me again.

I have sent out close to 100 resumes since then with only a handful of callbacks that have led to nothing.

I have tried hard to remain positive about the situation that I (along with countless of people) have found myself in, but a girl can only take so much.

I've also tried hard to outline my skills, and verbalize what I have to offer to a business or individual which has led to me writing and re-writing my resume over 20 times.

Frankly, I'm growing weary of this battle between me and every employer out there. All I have is a less than stellar resume (just being honest), and no face time to prove otherwise. I wish someone would just give me a chance.

Side note: My dream job would be a as a blogger/writer/editor, but I am willing to take anything that comes my way at this point!

xo

Oscars 2011: Best makeup looks

2011-02-28T23:27:00.000-08:00

Who else thought the Oscars sucked this year? I'm not blaming anyone, but Anne Hathaway and James Franco looked medicated. Well, at least everyone looked pretty...

Below are my picks for the best makeup looks at last night’s Oscars:

Hailee Steinfeld

True Grit’s 14 year-old breakout star who was nominated in the Best Supporting Actress category looked like a true princess at what was undoubtedly one of the biggest nights of her life. Hailee looked beautiful in her pink princess dress, ballerina hair, and simple makeup. This overall look made a statement, but was 100% age appropriate.

Anne Hathaway

Anne (along with James Franco) may have been a dud as a host, but she shined wonderfully in a red gown which she paired with a simple black wing and a red lip. Anne proves you just can’t go wrong with a classic red lip!

Scarlett Johansson

I was not a huge fan of Scarlett’s dress which did absolutely nothing for her amazing figure, but I did appreciate her pairing a unique orange/brown eyeshadow along with her purple dress. I am usually not a follower of matching your makeup to your wardrobe, so it was nice to see her pair a dramatic smokey eye to offset the color of her dress.

Michelle Williams

Michelle was nominated for Best Actress for her gritty role in Blue Valentine, and kept with the theme by wearing a beautiful blue shadow under her eyes. She kept up with the mod look that she has been seen wearing recently by wearing a white fitted dress, short platinum do, and beautiful vintage inspired earrings. Michelle was definitely channeling Twiggy with this look, and it suits her well!

Mila Kunis

Mila paired her beautiful lavender colored dress with a golden brown eye that made her green eyes pop. She paired this understated eye with a pink pout, and pink cheeks. Her overall look was ethereal, and relaxed.

Mandy Moore

At first glance, I wasn’t sure how I felt about Mandy’s hair and makeup mostly because it seemed to age her. On second look however, I absolutely fell in love with how she let her sparkly dress do most of the work by pinning her hair back, and applying a beautiful orange lip to constrast. Take note: Orange and coral lips will be all the rage this spring.

You can go here to see more trends to expect this spring!

Halle Berry

Seriously, has Halle aged? Halle paired her nude ruffled dress with a brown eye color that picked up the beautiful chocolate hue in her eyes, along with a nude lip, and a rosy cheek. When you look as good as she does, simplicity is key.

What was your favorite (and least favorite) look from last night's Oscars?

Continue reading on Examiner.com: Best Oscar 2011 makeup looks - San Diego Makeup | Examiner.com

Credit: Google Images

Sad movies

2011-02-25T18:20:00.000-08:00

I am such a masochist when it comes to watching movies. I either want to laugh until I can't breathe, cry until I can't breathe, or be so scared that I can't bare to look at the screen.

This week I have seen two of the most depressing movies EVER.

First, The Diving Bell and The Butterfly. This movie is based off the french memoir written by Jean-Dominique Bauby. Bauby was Elle magazines editor before suffering a massive stroke that left him in "locked-in syndrome." With the help of a speech therapist, Bauby was able to communicate using only his left eye to pen his memoir. Bauby died just two days after it was released.

Second, The Green Mile. Based off the critically acclaimed novel written by Stephen King. What else is there to say? It's Stephen King. You have been warned.

I'm new to makeup: Part 1

2011-02-25T17:50:00.000-08:00

If you’re a newbie to the “beauty” world like I once was, you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed by the different brands, products, and steps involved in achieving a certain makeup look. Fortunately, I have found through personal experience that the key to finding your makeup style in order to build a makeup collection is to start small. Stick to the basics.

First, find a skincare routine that works for you. This is very important. If you’re not happy with your skin, do something about it! I know how frustrating it can be (especially when you’re in your teens) to be breaking out, piling on makeup to cover any imperfections only to be unhappy with the outcome. If your skin doesn’t look good, you don’t feel good.

Two skincare lines that have worked wonders for me are Aveeno, and Proactiv. Maintaining a skincare routine can be extremely frustrating because your skin (just like you) is constantly changing, but don’t give up. Investing in a facial exfoliating brush can do wonders. You can read my review of the Olay Cleansing System here. If you just can’t seem to find something that works for you, I highly suggest visiting a Dermatologist. Click here to find one near you.

The Olay Cleansing System is under $30!

Credit: Google Images

Second, find a moisturizer that works for you. I can’t stress how important moisturizer is. This step is skipped by so many, and it’s hard to figure out why. Not using a moisturizer with a high-grade SPF can be detrimental to the appearance of your skin. You may not see the benefits right away (even I can admit I didn’t at first), but your skin will be thanking you in 10-20 years when your skin isn’t riddled with damage from the sun.

Third, find a primer that works for you. A primer’s job is to create a barrier between your skin and makeup, reduce the signs of pores and lines, and improve the longevity of your foundation. Some primers even contain salicylic acid (if you’re acne prone), or color correcting agents (if you tend to get redness in your skin or suffer from rosacea).

Many will disagree with me, but I believe this step is optional on a day-to-day basis. For those that have dry skin, you may be able to get away with skipping this step because your skin is more likely to absorb all of the makeup on your face without it budging. For those that have combination/oily skin, I suggest investing in a good primer that will keep your makeup on your face throughout the entire day. However, I do suggest a primer for everyone on special occasions, if you’re planning on going out for a long night (New Year’s for example), or if you’re going on vacation because climate change can alter your skin overnight.

I suggest using Stila One Step Correct ( this is a moisturizer, primer, and color corrector all in one), or Laura Mercier Foundation Primer which is incredibly long lasting. Both of these products can be found at your local Sephora.

Stila One Step Correct can be found at Sephora
Credit: Google Images

Now that you have prepped your skin, you are ready to move on to makeup…

Part 2 coming soon!

Continue reading on Examiner.com: I'm new to makeup: Part 1 - San Diego Makeup | Examiner.com

I want a puppy

2011-02-22T21:11:00.000-08:00

...so I can do this!

http://absolutefucker.tumblr.com/post/3332607153

Seriously though, this isn't animal abuse is it? He/she seems to be enjoying it! It might look a little strange, but I think this is perfectly acceptable behavior. I mean, we live in a society where we let parents put their children on leashes...

NARS Orgasm Illuminator

2011-02-22T16:06:00.000-08:00

In this month’s Birchbox (you can read my review on their wonderful monthly service here) I received some amazing goodies, but one of my favorites that I got the pleasure of being introduced to and trying this month is the NARS Orgasm Illuminator. Now, I’m being honest when I say that I probably would have never tried this product had it not been sent to me, but I ‘m also being honest when I say I am so grateful that it was!
As a person with combination skin, I suffer from the ‘oh so’ irritating oily t-zone with random dry patches. Because of this, I am very wary of any liquid foundations or highlighters that may aggravate my sensitive skin and cause me to break out. However, I went ahead and tried this product with the hope that maybe this time would be different. Luckily, I was not disappointed.

Gossip Girl beauty Leighton Meester was seen sporting a gorgeous glow with the help of the NARS Illuminator.
Credit: Google Images

As you know, your first impression of a product can mean everything. So how does this product measure up?

Firstly, the texture alone of this product will leave you smiling. It feels absolutely luscious and creamy on the skin, and not at all sticky.

The color is universally flattering. It may be too sheer for some, but if you’re looking for a healthy glow that doesn’t leave you looking like a disco ball (believe me, you want to avoid this look) then this is for you. The sheerness of this product also allows you to wear it even in the winter when some choose to forgo highlighter or bronzer in fear of looking too “summery.”

The price may seem a little steep for some ($29 at Sephora), but a little bit goes a long way! I could easily see the full-size Nars Orgasm Illuminator lasting me over 6 months.

And finally, how does it translate onto the face?

While I have never been a huge fan of highlighters (I have found some to break me out, or make me look too shiny), the NARS Orgasm Illuminator is donned a “complexion enhancer” which means you can mix it with your foundation, use it as a highlighter, or wear it alone. The choice is yours! Either way, the final product that this illuminator gives is sure to turn heads.

Franklin's 13 Virtues

2011-02-22T00:56:00.000-08:00

From Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography…

TEMPERANCE
Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation.
SILENCE
Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid
trifling conversation.
ORDER
Let all your things have their places; let each part of
your business have its time.
RESOLUTION
Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without
fail what you resolve.
FRUGALITY
Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself;
i.e., waste nothing.
INDUSTRY
Lose no time; be always employed in something
useful; cut off all unnecessary actions.
SINCERITY
Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly; and,
if you speak, speak accordingly.
JUSTICE
Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits
that are your duty.
MODERATION
Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much
as you think they deserve.
CLEANLINESS
Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, clothes, or habitation.
TRANQUILITY
Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common
or unavoidable.
CHASTITY
Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to
dullness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another’s
peace or reputation.
HUMILITY
Imitate Jesus and Socrates

I found this at: http://www.justsell.com/franklins-13-virtues/ and thought it was definitely something a lot of people could benefit from.

xo

Stress

2011-02-21T22:13:00.000-08:00

I can't remember the last time I didn't feel stress. I was probably still in the womb, and even then I am sure I was neurotically thinking about something...anything...because that is just who I am, and probably always will be.

This past week, my stress hit an all time high and I have been wracking my brain trying to figure out how to manage my anxiety/stress/panic attacks. I have so far made an appointment with a psychologist (which still freaks me out), decided to walk more everyday, and also write. That's write! (pun intended) For some reason, writing/ blogging just seems to unleash all of the stress that I am feeling through my fingertips and onto my laptop screen.

I'm still not sure how honest I will get on here because this is a public forum after all, and not a diary (which I've never been good on keeping up with anyways)...

I'm also going to continue searching for a job (even though it feels as if I will ever find one), continue working part-time at my non-profit organization, and finally, continue writing about everything related to beauty for The Examiner. Yes, I am aware that they pay me virtually nothing. However, I find the writing enjoyable (therapeutic even), and gets my name out there so who am I to complain?

Wish me luck...I will surely need it.

xo

Birchbox: The monthly gift that keeps on giving

2011-02-21T21:06:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been suckered into purchasing expensive beauty products? It goes without saying that trying to keep up with the vast amount of beauty products that are in the market today is close to impossible. It also goes without saying that some of the most adored brands that come out with new products promising beauty "miracles" can be not only too much for your wallet, but also turn out to be a complete disaster to your beauty regimen. The good news is that there is a monthly service out there that is not only brilliant, tailored to your beauty needs, but also only $10 a month.

This service is called Birchbox, and I have fallen deeply in love with them.

What is Birchbox?
Birchbox is a monthly beauty gift that caters to your needs.

What comes in each Birchbox?
With each monthly Birchbox, you will receive 4-5 luxe beauty samples. The most brilliant detail about these samples is that they are completely tailored to your needs. Once you have access to your account online, you can edit your beauty profile where you can answer questions regarding your present beauty regimen, your beauty style, your skin tone/skin type/skin concerns, and other various questions to gain more insight into what your beauty needs are.

How much does Birchbox cost?
The best part about this service is that you are in no way under a contract. Honestly, who likes feeling restricted? There are two options here. 1. Sign up for a monthly subscription for $10 which you can cancel at any time. 2. Sign up for a yearly subscription for $110.

Why should I join Birchbox?
The biggest incentive to joining Birchbox is that you get to sample products that are hand-picked for you before splurging on a full size product. Personally, I know how aggravating and time consuming it can be to pick out a product that someone promises is JUST for me, or JUST what I’m looking for…only to be sorely disappointed. Another incentive to joining is that if you happen to love something from your monthly Birchbox, you can buy it directly through them without ever leaving home. How nice is that?

Where do I sign up?
You can learn more about Birchbox by visiting their website at www.birchbox.com. I promise you, you’ll wish you had heard about this service sooner (I know I did!)

MAC and Lady Gaga team up for Viva Glam collection...again!

2011-02-21T21:04:00.001-08:00

Lady Gaga may not be everybody's cup of tea, but that doesn't stop her from being one of the most watched celebrities for her innovative, daring (and let's be honest...sometimes downright offensive) behavior, look, and overall persona. MAC, along with the rest of the world has taken notice of just how demanding Lady Gaga's presence is and has brilliantly teamed up with her for a second time to work on the Viva Glam collection.

While the first Viva Glam collection was a success for MAC, it left many MAC and Gaga lovers wishing for something more wearable. The Viva Glam Lipstick in Gaga from the first collection was no doubt beautiful, but it left a lot of people in the cold. If you didn't like pink (and I'm talking cotton candy pink), this lipstick just simply did not work for you.

Now, onto MAC's current collection...to say that MAC hit a home run with this lipstick would be an understatment. The Viva Glam Gaga lipstick ($14.50) is a simple nude that is a surprising and wonderful departure from their first collaboration because it is a very wearable color. The lipglass ($14.50) is also in the color nude, and offers a warm beige muted color that is uber flattering. This collection may pale in comparison to Lady Gaga's larger than life personality, but that just might be what people are looking for. If this gorgeous color weren't enough, all proceeds from this collection go to the MAC AIDS Foundation to raise awareness, but more importantly give direct help to those living with HIV and AIDS.

The new Viva Glam collection launched yesterday in the U.S and Canada, and launches internationally in March 2011.

Olay Professional Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System

2011-02-21T20:58:00.001-08:00

Everyone wishes for clear, smooth, and radiant skin. Especially here in San Diego where a California sun kissed look is always in style, many women and men alike go through costly and painful procedures to achieve a youthful look that seems to glow from within. Fortunately, there are many exfoliating brushes on the market right now that work just as well for a fraction of the cost to a trip to consult and treat with a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.

In the skincare world where cleansing systems are competing with chemical peels, facials, and other costly procedures, the Olay Professional Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System is in a league all on its own. While other cleansing systems can cost anywhere from $225 for the Clarisonic PLUS, $195 for the Clarisonic Classic to $119 for the Clarisonic Mia (a smaller version of the Classic), the Olay Cleansing System is under $30.

Included in this system is:
A 2-speed facial brush
Exfoliating renewal cleanser
2-AA batteries
*Information on getting replacement brushes can be found here.

The Olay Cleansing System is a 2-speed rotating brush system that gets deep into your pores and fine lines, cleanses and exfoliates…and all without irritating your skin. As someone who suffers from the occasional breakout, finding an exfoliating brush that doesn’t irritate my skin and cause more breakouts is a priority. Unfortunately, the exfoliating renewal cleanser was not exactly to my liking. Massaging it into my skin with only my fingers felt like rubbing sand paper on my face, so I refrained from massaging it in with the facial brush. However, this cleanser is optional and you can always swap it out for a more gentle facial cleanser. One of my favorites is Cetaphil.

This system is so effective that just using it for 1 minute everyday will garner positive results. I have been using this system for over 2 months now (prior to bedtime), and can honestly say that I have never seen my skin look this polished, glow this much, or feel this soft. It is gentle enough for everyday use, but still gets deep down into your pores to get a face full of makeup off (or just dirt and oil from a long day). Another great thing about this system is that it is entirely water resistant so you can even use it in the shower. This is great for someone that is on the go and can’t spend a ton of time on their sometimes time consuming (but necessary) beauty routine.

xo

Hair Challenge

2011-02-21T20:52:00.000-08:00

An article in the March edition of W magazine gave me the brilliant idea to start a challenge with one of my friends, Heather. In sum, the article stated that washing your hair with very little product (meaning no shampoo, and just conditioner where needed) is actually great for your hair, and will make it healthier.

The challenge is to see how long we can go (with no cheating!) without washing our hair with shampoo. I am on day 2, and I honestly cannot stand it. I thought this would be a lot easier...

Also, I have a job interview tomorrow. I hope they like semi washed hair.

xo

I love Julia Child

2011-02-03T14:24:00.000-08:00

I am deeply deeply in love with food, cooking, eating...and Julia Child. My boyfriend knows this so he was sweet enough to buy me "Mastering The Art of French Cooking" by Julia Child & Co.

I've glanced over the books (yes books, there are 2 volumes and they are huge!)...and I am extremely intimidated by them. There are so many delicious recipes in there, but I'm afraid that I would be doing Julia Child a huge disservice and in essence slapping her memory in the face if I messed up one of her recipes. Yes, I realize that I won't ever learn if I don't ever try and in the process make some mistakes...but that doesn't make this first step any easier.

It doesn't help that there are 2 volumes and just way too much delicious recipes to sift through. I think I'll start small and simply pick one category (beef, poultry, fish...etc). and go from there.

Wish me luck!

xo

Spring 2011 makeup trends

2011-02-03T14:07:00.000-08:00

Love love love, can't wait to try all of these!

http://www.examiner.com/makeup-in-san-diego/spring-2011-makeup-trends

xo

Review of the Olay Cleansing System

2011-02-03T14:06:00.003-08:00

Check it out here!

http://www.examiner.com/makeup-in-san-diego/olay-professional-pro-x-advanced-cleansing-system-review

xo

Spring 2011 makeup trends

2011-01-31T19:00:00.000-08:00

Check out a slideshow on Spring 2011 makeup trends!

http://www.examiner.com/makeup-in-san-diego/spring-2011-beauty-trends-picture

Can't wait to try all of these. Which one will you be trying out?

xo

Hello Kitty comes to Sephora

2011-01-28T15:17:00.000-08:00

Flipping through February’s edition of Vanity Fair, the last thing one would think to see is Hello Kitty...but that is exactly what I saw.

“Hello Pretty: Proof that cuteness knows no age limit, the Hello Kitty Beauty collection presents a pop of purrfect color.”

At first shock set in, but then true and unadulterated glee when I also read that this new collection would be sold exclusively at Sephora.

Hello Kitty's new collection at Sephora includes:
Charmmy Eyeshadow Stick
Glittercute Eyeliner
Pen Pal Eyeliner
Apple Cheeks
Big Smile Gloss
Apple Balm
Say Hello Palette's in Super Fun and Happy Fun
...and so much more.

A review on this adorable collection is coming soon!

xo

Buried

2011-01-28T00:16:00.000-08:00

I just started watching the movie Buried starring Ryan Reynolds which was released in 2010. I had never heard of it until my boyfriend and I stumbled upon it a couple of days ago at Blockbuster. Yes, we still go to Blockbuster. There is just something about actually going to a video store that may seem outdated to some people, but to me...well, I find it rather romantic. Strange, I know. Anyways, I shall cross the Red Box/Netflix bridge when I get to it.

So far, Ryan Reynolds' character is stuck in a coffin with only a cell phone and a lighter. He has no idea why he's there or how he got there. It's been only 5 minutes and I am already extremely frustrated with this plot line...and the boyfriend isn't helping.

Boyfriend: "If he had really been buried, he would have already run out of oxygen by now."

Michelle: "Well, not necessarily. What if he just got buried? I think you have about an hour."

Boyfriend: "Not with how heavy he's breathing, he would have run out by now."

Michelle: "Jkjhfjkghfd, YES I KNOW...but it's a movie."

Ryan Reynolds' character whose name has not yet been revealed has finally gotten a hold of someone only to have them further frustrate him (and me!).

Seriously people, he's stuck in a COFFIN and you're upset because he is speaking rapidly and "rudely" to you? I'd really like to see someone stuck in a coffin act calmly and rationally, however I think that is not very plausible.

(10 minutes into the movie) Ryan Reynolds' character has lost it...and with good reason. I would have lost it within the first minute of discovering I was in a coffin with no way out.

It's kind of hard to remember why we chose this movie to begin with considering we just started it around midnight and these types of movies just can't be good to watch before bed...but I think it has something to do with the fact that I'm a masochist.

Sweet dreams...I hope?

Kissable lips for Valentine's Day

2011-01-27T13:31:00.001-08:00

It comes as no surprise that this San Diego weather has taken a toll on a lot of San Diegans skin. Recent weather has varied from cold and rainy in the last month to the most recent weather that has been sunny, dry, and windy. This extreme change has caused humidity to drop which can do major damage to your lips. Take for instance today, when the daytime high is estimated to be at 76 degrees, sunny and dry, and the nighttime low is estimated to be at a fairly chilly 49 degrees (at least for us San Diegans!) with wind gusts going at 25 MPH. For this reason, it is important to keep your skin, particularly your lip area very hydrated. Especially considering a very romantic holiday is right around the corner…

Remember to stay hydrated. Carry a bottle of water (not soda or juice!) with you at work, school, or when running errands because the first thing you’ll do when thirsty is suck on your lips. I know it’s tempting, but don’t do it!
Apply (and reapply) chapstick or a lip balm. There are a ton of products to choose from on the market, but one of my favorites is the Carmex Original Formula. The Carmex Original Formula has been around since 1937 and there is little room for debate as to why that is. This lip product was originally intended for cold sores and contains the ingredients Camphor to alleviate pain, Menthol which kills germs and relieves discomfort, and Phenol which gently numbs sore lips and removes old and dead skin. You can find more information on this and other products at www.mycarmex.com.
Wear a scarf! Now the weather here in San Diego may not be as extreme as in the East coast, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t protect your face and lips from the wind and cold. Wearing a scarf at night is not only a cute accent to any outfit, but also a lip saver. There are a variety of scarves that can be found at www.forever21.com or by simply stopping in to your local Forever 21. Stores are located at Fashion Valley, Westfield UTC, and Horton Plaza.
Brush your lips. Yes, you read that right. Now, this may sound bizarre but brushing your lips with warm water at night before going to bed is a great and simple way to exfoliate. Just as you might exfoliate your face at night, you can do the same for your lips. I suggest buying a soft bristle tooth brush (Don’t use an old toothbrush for obvious sanitary reasons!) and brushing your lips softly right before bed.
Slather on a nice coat of Vaseline. As mentioned in a previous article, Top 5 ‘old faithful’ beauty products, Vaseline is a great lip protectant but it can sometimes be too thick to use during the day. If you find this is the case for you, wait until bed time to apply a generous amount of Vaseline to your lips.
Use a hydrating lipstick or lip gloss. After all this work, the worst thing you could do on Valentine’s Day is apply a coat of lipstick or lip gloss that is not hydrating enough, sticks to your lips like chalk, and dries out your lips after a couple of hours.

Try Cover Girl’s Continuous Color Lipstick ($5.49 @ www.drugstore.com) which is packed with Vitamin E and Vitamin A. My favorites are PowerPink (an iridescent pink that is blue based) and Natural Frost (a vibrant peach color).

If you’re a sucker for lip gloss, try out Bare Escentuals Buxom Lip Gloss in Sandy ($18). It’s a lip plumper that doesn’t sting (What a concept!), but leaves lips feeling full, hydrated, and carries a light vanilla scent. You can find this product at your local Sephora store or by visiting www.sephora.com.

If you're going for a more natural look, try C.O Bigelow's Ultra Mentha Lip Shine ($7.50). This lip gloss is extra hydrating and infused with spearmint for a cooling sensation on your lips, and long lasting fresh breath. You can find this product at Bath & Body Works or by visiting www.bathandbodyworks.com.

Good luck, ladies! Believe me, your lips (and that special someone) will thank you for keeping your lips extra kissable this year.

Top 5 'Old Faithful' beauty products

2011-01-27T13:29:00.001-08:00

While beauty trends and products may come and go, there are some that have made a home in our makeup loving hearts because they are virtually fail proof and have never let us down (yet!) Here are my top 5:

Vaseline
This product is amazing because it is very versatile and can be used year round.

You can use this as lip protectant during the cold winter months when the air can really take a toll on your skin (particularly your lips). You can also use this in the summer to protect your lips from the sun.
This works great as an eye makeup remover because it is very hydrating to the delicate eye area and it gets everything, and I mean EVERYTHING off.
You can even use Vaseline as a quick and easy alternative to using an eye shadow. This is especially great in the summer when it’s hot and you might not want to cake on a bunch of makeup. Instead, I suggest putting a dab of Vaseline on your lids to achieve a summer dewy look that is carefree and radiant. Top it off with a strong lip or cheek, and you’re good to go! ($2.09 at CVS.com)

MAC Paint Pot in Painterly
While I have bought other Paint Pot’s from MAC and loved them all, my staple has always been Painterly. I have thought about why this is my go to base, or all over the lid color and I think I’ve finally figured it out. Painterly is a universally flattering color, but it is especially great for my skin tone (NC30 in MAC Studio Fix in case you’re wondering). Painterly is a cream finish which is great for those days when you want a matte look that is very polished, and very chic. It is also great for brightening up the eyes as it covers any redness that you might have after a long night of studying, or ahem…going out with the girls.
($16.50 at maccosmetics.com)
Aussie- 3 Minute Miracle
For someone who has thin to medium hair I have always been very wary of deep conditioners that may get all those tangles out, but leave my hair feeling heavy, greasy, and lifeless. This product does just the opposite! It certainly does get all those tangles out (In 3 minutes, ladies. Can you really beat that?), but also leaves hair feeling soft, voluminous, and smelling great. ($3.06 at amazon.com)
L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black
L’Oreal is a huge innovator when it comes to making mascaras that are water proof and long wear without compromising the softness and thickness of your natural lashes. What I have found out through countless trials and probably hundreds of dollars spent on mascara is that what most people want is for their lashes to look natural and soft whether you swipe on one coat of mascara or three. You will find just that when you use this product because it is very buildable without getting clumpy or flakey. ($5.04 at target.com)
Stila #30 double-ended shadow brush
This brush is amazing, and not only because you are getting 2 brushes in one but also because of the quality. This brush was given to me by my mom as a Christmas gift over a year ago and it’s still going strong. As someone who struggled (sometimes still do!) to put on eye shadow correctly, this brush has been a savior! One side is dome shaped and dense for packing on a ton of color without getting fall out on the rest of your face, and the other side is perfect for blending. Next time you find yourself struggling with making a gorgeous cat eye or blending, pick this bad boy up…you’ll wish you had found it sooner! ($32 at stilacosmetics.com)

How To Build a Better Body Image

2011-01-12T15:28:00.000-08:00

I have no idea why, but the video below made me irrationally angry. How is a better bra and colorful underwear helping people? I just don't think this applies to everyone. That is all.

http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/new-year-new-you/video.aspx?vid=73bd3dc4-ca84-4c3c-99c1-2ff82078624b