RAMBLE: Rifling Through Baskets

SOURCE:  Google

My zaney encounters continue, but this time at the drugstore.  During the same trip to the drugstore where I bought my two Wet n Wild Coloricon trios (see, previous blog post), I had the oddest run in with the woman standing behind me in the checkout line.

I had a basket full of miscellaneous items that I was relieved to place on top of the checkout counter when I got close to the cashier.  My basket was full and heavy.  The normal procedure at the Downtown Longs is to keep your items in the basket because the cashiers will unload your items as they scan them and then bag everything.  The Downtown Longs is so congested that there is not enough room for you to stack your basket at the front of the checkout counters.  Instead, the cashiers collect the empty baskets next to them behind the counter.

I was the next one in line and excited to be that much closer to getting out of the store when all in a sudden, I felt an odd shiver down my spine.  An older lady in large dark sunglasses with no clue of personal space was standing immediately behind me.  It was way too close to comfort and I could hear and feel her breathing down my neck.  I turned around and flashed her one of my dirtiest of looks.

Obviously, this woman could not take the hint that I wanted her to get her nose out of my personal space because she then rested her hand on the edge of my shopping basket.  Before I knew it, she was starting to RIFLE through the items in my basket!  It was like she was doing her own personal shopping in my basket!  I quickly pulled my basket away from her greedy paws; foolishly thinking that would stop her rude and socially abnormal behavior.  I was wrong.  She then moved with my basket!  Finally, I had enough of this woman and said, "Lady, get your dirty paws out of my basket!"  She didn't say anything in response, but took her hands out of my basket.  She didn't step out of my personal space, but I figured I could put up with that longer than her poking around in my shopping basket.  As I waited for the cashier to scan my items, I took a good look at this woman.  All she had in her hand to purchase was a tube of hemorrhoid cream!

That was just a strange encounter indeed, but after witnessing the men acting like monkeys in the banyan tree on palace grounds and the four homeless guys swinging punches at each other, I really shouldn't be surprised, right?  Well, they say things tend to happen in threes, so hopefully yesterday's zaney encounter will be the third and last for me.  Crossing my fingers.

SHOPPING THERAPY: Wet n Wild Coloricon Eye Shadow Trios

Wet n Wild Coloricon Trios

I went to the drugstore during my lunch break with a list of items in hand.  When I am at Downtown Longs, I make it a point to strictly stick to the list.  The whole plan of execution is quickly find the items on the list, stand in line at the checkout, pay, and then get the heck out of there.  Downtown Longs is a complete circus during lunch time.  For the sake of my sanity, I try to spend the least time as possible in that store.

Today's trip to the Longs was no different.  I diligently gathered the items on my list.  Trash bags, contact lens cleaner and solution, and Airborne.  All the items on my list were on sale, including Maybelline cosmetics with a 30% off discount.  As I made my way down the cosmetic aisle to the Maybelline shelves, I noticed that the Wet n Wild section had a bunch of new eye shadow trios!

I am a big fan of the Wet n Wild Coloricon series and have the eye shadow trios, singles, and six color palettes, blushes, and bronzers.  I still want to get my hands on the eight color eye shadow palette, but heard that those are only sold at Walgreens.  The Walgreens closest to my house lacks parking, which is the biggest reason why I don't go there.

I ended up picking to two new Wet n Wild Coloricon trios in "I'm Getting Sunburned" (trio on the left) and "Silent Treatment" (trio on the right).  I am most excited to try "Silent Treatment" with taupe eyelid shade and deep brown shade with sparkles for the crease.  I can see myself using this trio for a day or night time look.  Both trios look like they are shimmery shades, especially "I'm Getting Sunburned" with its golden shimmery eyelid shade.  I am a little hesitant about the bright pink shade for the brow bone.  I guess I can't diss it until I try it.  I can't wait!

By the way, I ended up buying the Wet n Wild trios at regular price and nothing from Maybelline.  I'll do a Beauty Review on my new purchases soon!

RAMBLE: Looney Sights

SOURCE:  Google

Is it a full moon out tonight because I witnessed some crazy things during the beginning and end my lunch hour today.

I cut through Iolani Palace grounds to meet my boyfriend for lunch today.  I usually enter through the back entrance on the Capitol Mall area and walk past the parking, the palace, and band stand to exit on the corner of Richards and King Streets.  As I was making my way through the back entrance, I heard a bunch of cheering and hollering going on next to the State Archives.  It sounded like a cheers at a sporting event of some sort.

When I looked to my left to figure out what in tarnation was going on, I observed a bunch of grown men climbing up and swinging like monkeys on the vines of the huge banyan tree next to the State Archives.  Meanwhile, the rest of the adults in their party were cheering them on like they were at a high school track meet!

I realize that perhaps these tourists (yes, they were visitors) are not aware that Iolani Palace grounds are considered sacred and should be respected as such.  However, don't they realize that they are on PALACE grounds?  Would they behave the same if they were on Buckingham Palace grounds?  I suspect not.  It really googled my mind that grown adults would see hanging vines as an opportunity to play Tarzan.  Weird.  Needless to say, the state sheriffs and police officers were not amused and they asked these bozos to knock it off.

After lunch, I was walking along Hotel Street to get back to my office and heard yelling, but this time coming from the corner of Hotel and Richards.  I saw four men who appeared homeless, yelling at each other and before I knew it, they were swinging punches at each other and getting into quite a WWE match in public.  Where in the world are the cops when you need them?

Needless to say, Hawaii people love wrestling, boxing, and MMA.  For some reason they like to watch a good fight whether it's a professional or free to the public.  A group of onlookers already formed to watch the fight.  At that moment, I didn't know what to do.  Should I call 911?  Is 911 the number to call?  Should I run to the District Court House and get a police officer?  Should I run into Alii Place and get a security guard?  While I pondered what the proper thing to do was, I noticed that a bus driver was making a call on his cell phone.  By the time he was done placing a call, the four men stopped beating each other out and then had a shouting match.  After the exchange of a few loud expletives, the four men dispersed and headed in different directions.  Weird.

What disappointed me the most about these two incidents were that they happened in front of other visitors.  The Iolani Palace tour group were getting ready to start their tour of the beautiful historic palace when those monkeys decided to swing to and fro in the banyan tree.  The fight broke out in front of a handful of tourists waiting for their bus to take them back to Waikiki.  What they must think about Hawaii!

My lunch hour was a real head scratcher.

RAVE FAVE: iPod Touch

SOURCE:  Apple.com

I was obviously a good girl this year because "Santa" brought me a wonderful gift...an iPod Touch!  I have an old iPod Nano with a measly 2GB on it.  At the time I got it, it was the newest and latest with its thin construction and color graphics to support album covers and photos.  I thought I was hot to trot.  Despite its rather small memory capacity, I loved my iPod Nano.  I carried it in my purse and listened to my iTunes at work, while schlepping around downtown, or riding the bus.  I had a clear plastic cover to protect it from dings, scratches, and scuffs.

Ah, but technology moves much faster than commercial marketing and popular culture, and before I could even get my new iPod Nano out of its box, my model was already obsolete.  My iPod Nano was created before the iPhone and iPad craze with its superb capabilities and conveniences at the touch of your finger.  Despite this, I was satisfied with my obsolete Nano until I got my MacBook Pro.  I shamelessly felt that my  MacBook Pro should have newer accessories as "friends."  I know...I'm not proud, but I admit it...I am becoming an Apple snob.  So, this year for Christmas, I asked "Santa"for an iPod Touch.  I was enamored by the cool touch screen feature as well as the various applications, including iPhoto, iMovie, FaceTime, iTunes, and text messaging.

I should disclose that I am a loyal BlackBerry user, so getting an iPhone is out of the question for me.  I know...it doesn't make sense that someone who just admitted she is becoming an Apple snob would turn around and admit that she is a BlackBerry fan.  Despite that contradiction, I wanted the conveniences of having my MacBook Pro in the palm of my hand without converting over to an iPhone (and a new cellphone carrier!).  The iPod Touch satisfies my needs.  And hey...I get an iPod with way more memory than my Nano to boot!

I am slowly getting used to my new sidekick, which comes at a perfect time since our busy season at work is quirky approaching.  I love it!  Thank you "Santa!"

BEAUTY REVIEW: L'Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick in Sunset Red

SOURCE:  Drugstore.com

Since it is the holiday season, I've been using red lipsticks to be festive.  One of my favorite red lipsticks used to be from Clinique until the company discontinued that shade for another shade of red that didn't quire compare to my favorite.

I was using Revlon ColorBurst lipstick in Crimson, which is a gorgeous deep red, but for some reason, I am not a fan of the scent of the Revlon ColorBurst lipsticks and eventually placed this lipstick to the side.  It's a shame because I liked how the Revlon ColorBurst lipstick line moisturized my lips.  My favorite line of lipsticks is L'Oreal Colour Riche lipstick; regardless that some people think that only old ladies use this line.

I am in love with the L'Oreal Colour Riche lipstick in Sunset Red.  It is a subdued shade of red that is not bright like a fire engine and not too deep that it looks bloody.  Instead this shade of red is really pretty with a hint of a gold undertone that lightly catches the light in the sun; hence, its color name.  Like all the other shades in the Colour Riche line, this lipstick is creamy and keeps your lips supple, soft, and smooth.  This particular shade lasts me throughout the morning (even through sips of coffee and breakfast) with only a minimal touch up after lunch.

Thumbs up for this lipstick shade.  It is my new holiday favorite!

RAMBLE: Christmas Tidings

SOURCE:  Google

It's Christmas Eve and it's almost midnight.  Now that I am an adult, Christmas is different for me than what it used to be when I was a kid.  I remember being so excited about Christmas...the Christams decorations, Christmas cookies, Christmas trees, Christmas shopping, and of course...the CHRISTMAS PRESENTS! Now, Christmas means shopping lists, mall chaos, traffic, headaches, and overspending.  Oh, how I wish I could I go back in time when things were brighter, shinier, and more exciting.

However, now that I am older, I appreciate Christmas on a different level.  I see it as a time for families to come together again, to wish each other peace and happiness, and let bygones be bygones.  It's more than the presents and the commercial market strategies.  This season, I am thankful for my family and friends, for finding new opportunities, and appreciating the opportunities that I currently have.  Those are valuables in my life that you can't place a price tag on, or never return, exchange, or refund.

Merry Christmas everyone!

RAMBLE: Epic Win

Scoreboard at the Stan Sheriff Arena

I don't think I am going to make it in time for my daily blog post, but I have a really good excuse.  I just got home from the University of Hawaii Men's Basketball game against Xavier at the 2011 Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic.

Xavier is ranked 15th in the nation, but after tonight, their ranking will probably fall due to two straight losses.  Tonight, UH came on the court slow, but once the momentum started and the crowd got into it, the men caught up with the Musketeers and beat them in overtime 84-82.  What an EPIC game!

I am so proud and happy for the UH Men's Basketball team.  It's a win like this that brings them together and gels them as a team.  What a great win the for the team, the coaches, and the school!  The Diamond Head Classic is televised nationally on ESPN, which is such great exposure for the athletic program and the University.  First it was the announcement of Norm Chow as our new UH Football head coach and the next day, a big win against Xavier.  What a great Christmas present for UH!  Go Warriors!

PIC PICK: Hoops

UH vs. UC Davis at the Stan Sheriff Arena on December 11, 2011

After the University of Hawaii Football season ended earlier this month, I packed away my tailgating supplies and got ready for UH Men's Basketball.  I have to admit that I like watching hoops more than football sometimes because the games are shorter and the Stan Sheriff Arena is closer to where I live.  After a rather disappointing football season, many UH sports fans are also looking forward to seeing some more wins rather losses and are hoping that this year's basketball team will secure a winning season.

A couple of weeks ago, I finally attended my first basketball game of the season and brought my new camera!  Here's a picture that I took using the miniature effect on my camera.  Pretty cool, huh?  GO BOWS!!

BEAUTY REVIEW: Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara in Blackest Black

SOURCE:  Drugstore.com

Like I stated in my previous blog about mascara, I don't have long and thick eyelashes.  Instead, my lashes are short and sparse, so whether I have mascara on or not doesn't really matter in the long run because it is unnoticeable.  However, I still wear mascara and am always looking for a product that will create the illusion that I have more lashes and save me from wearing fake lashes.  Honestly, I am just too darn lazy to apply fake lashes every morning.

One day, I couldn't find the tube of mascara that I usually use at the drugstore.  I kind of started freaking out for a bit because I was worried that the brand discontinued it.  My friend suggested that I try Maybelline Great Lash mascara because she read that it is one of the most popular mascaras on the market.  I was a little skeptical, but I was desperate because I just threw away my last tube of mascara.

I purchased the waterproof formula and read the product claims that it it is waterproof, conditions as it thickens with all day wear without clumps, globs, or smudges.  I give this product a huge thumbs down.  This mascara has a wetter formula that I am used to, so with my teary eyes, I quickly noticed smears and the development of raccoon rings under my eyes.  While I noticed that my lashes thicken, it did not lengthen and it took awhile for the mascara to dry.  After about a week of wearing this mascara every day and wiping away the excess around my eyes every day, I decided to mind another mascara.

PIC PICK: Backyard Finds

Using the zoom lens on my new camera

I got a new camera for my birthday!  It's a Canon PowerShot SX130 IS digital camera with 12.1 megapixels and a 12x optical zoom.  I loved my old Canon digital camera, but was looking for something that could take better pictures, especially in low lit settings or close-ups.  I love my new camera because it handles these conditions perfectly, but offers even more features, plus HD video!  Thus, I couldn't wait to try it and have been snapping away every since I got it.  I am getting to know my new friend.

This is a picture of a flower that I found in the backyard of my boyfriend's family's house.  I don't know what kind of flower it is, but it caught instantly caught my eye.  What's the big deal about this picture?  I took it from the deck area above using the optical zoom feature on my camera.  Pretty good, huh?  I think so!  Did I mention how much I love my new camera?

BEAUTY REVIEW: Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner Pencil in Black

SOURCE:  Drugstore.com

As I mentioned previously, I found my holy grail eyeliner.  Well, liquid eyeliner.  I am still in the hunt for a pencil eyeliner that will stay put along my bottom waterline.  Like a lot of my cosmetics, I have some conditions or preferences when it comes to my pencil eyeliners.

First, the pencil has to be waterproof, smudge proof, and fade proof.  Second, I also prefer a pigmented liner.  Finally, I prefer a retractable pencil rather than a regular pencil that requires sharpening.  However, that part is becoming a negotiable feature if the pencil is waterproof and smudge proof.  I guess I am a picky-picky girl, but I honestly just know what I like.

The Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner Pencil looked like it fulfilled all my requirements.  It claims to contain a waterproof formula that lasts up to 16 hours and won't smudge, smear, or fade away.  The pencil is a retractable crayon with a pull out sharpener to get your crayon to a nice shape point for thin precise line. Lastly, its carbon black formula is rich and intense.

Unfortunately, my water eyes are too much for this product to handle because by lunchtime, my eyeliner along my bottom waterline was fading and smearing fast.  My raccoon eyes were developing and I ended up taking a tissue and gently wiping the eyeliner along my bottom waterline away.  I had such high hopes for this product, but after about a week of consistent daily use, I decided that this was not the pencil for me.  I still use this product from time to time, but only for short periods of time before the raccoon in me makes an appearance.

RAMBLE: Shopping Mayhem

SOURCE:  Google

It's that time of year again when everyone flocks to the malls to find that something special for the ones they love.  It's the favorite time of year for retail stores to sucker customers into buying their inventory by razzling and dazzling people with sales, bargains, and discounts--all just in time for Christmas.  I know, I sound like a bit of a Grinch, but honestly, I'm not.

I love the sights and sounds of Christmas.  I have a Christmas tunes playlist on my iPod.  I decorate my office with jingle bells.  I embrace the spirit of giving.  However, there are things that I am not a fan, such as the Christmas shopping crowds, the lack of parking, and all the stress that results from Christmas shopping.  I truly believe that people turn their brains off when they are stuck in the middle of a crowded department store.  All reasoning seems to fly out the window as people stress over what to buy for Aunty Martha and debating whether to buy a gift for Uncle Charlie even though they know that he never gives anything in return.

Today, I braved the mall with the determination to finish my Christmas shopping once and for all this year.  No excuses.  I only had a few people left on my list with ideas of what to get them, so I didn't have any intention of mindlessly wandering around the mall.  I had no intention of falling prey to the deals and steals with the pretty twinkling lights and shiny tinsel.  I was a chic on a mission with a strategy in hand, but unfortunately, many of the people at the mall were not today, which drove me batty.

After 15 minutes at the mall, I soon realized why I dread Christmas shopping.  I had to put up with the screaming kids who were just over it, the baby strollers blocking the aisles, the people stopping in the middle of the aisles or mall walkways without any warning, and the shoppers who decide to monopolize the salesperson's time by asking whether she can check in the back to make sure that the sweater doesn't come in periwinkle.  Seriously lady...I am sure that cousin Susan will like the lavender sweater, and if not, the store has a reasonable return and exchange policy.

Needless to say, I finished my Christmas shopping today.  I have to admit that I am proud of myself because I waited patiently in long checkout lines and didn't lose it.  I negotiated my way around crowds without making any snarky remarks to those who were causing the pile up.  I even smiled at the woman who monopolized the salesperson's time by making her look for one more silver bell ornament for her.  I was still annoyed though and it reminded me once again this year how stressful Christmas shopping is and how much I need to avoid crowds.  Now that's a bah humbug!

BEAUTY REVIEW: Revlon Ceramic Wet and Dry Hair Straightener and Curling Iron

SOURCE:  Folica.com

I was trying to figure out what to blog about today and nothing came to my mind.  I didn't feel like doing a review on makeup, although I did buy two Wet N Wild Color Icon Bronzers today at the drugstore in "Princess" and "Goddess," but I didn't think that was enough to warrant a haul post.  Nothing popped into my head that spurred a ramble post, so basically, I was stuck.  I decided to quickly scan my bedroom and write about the first thing that caught my eye.  POOF!  I spotted my straightener and curling iron.  I should've taken a picture of my actual hot tool, but in the interest of time, I found this picture online that was the closest to mine minus the wet and dry feature.

I have to say that this is my favorite hot styling tool because it does an excellent job at straightening my hair without damaging it.  My hair comes silky and smooth and can be used on wet or dry hair with a flip of a switch.  I have to admit though that I haven't used the dryer feature on my tool.

For the curling iron feature, simply lock the barrel and use the curling iron clip to grip onto your hair.  The ceramic barrel is smooth to allow you to twist the segments of your hair around it.  However, I find that the clip does not hold my hair segments tight enough against the barrel in order for me to achieve tighter curls rather than waves.  Thus, I use the flat iron feature far more than the curling iron.

This hot tool comes with cool tips to make it easier for you clamp and pull the tool through your hair and heats up pretty fast.  The swivel cord prevents the cord from getting tangled and knotted while the auto shutoff saves you from the all day worry of whether you remembered to turn off you curling iron.  This is a great tool to travel with because you just need to bring one tool rather than two and saves space in your suitcase!  I highly recommend this hot styling tool and so glad that I have it.

BEAUTY REVIEW: Physicians Formular Concealer 101 Duo in "Yellow/Light"

SOURCE:  Drugstore.com

Like many women out there, I suffer from dark under eye circles.  Sometimes I can get away without concealer, but for the most part, applying concealer is part of my regular makeup routine.  I am always on the hunt for a good concealer, but my hunt is a little harder because I have some conditions.

First of all, I do not like wet liquid concealers, which you need to apply with a brush.  I prefer concealers with a thicker consistency, so that I may apply the product with my fingertips.  I feel like I have better control that way and besides, it is one less makeup brush that I need to clean.

Second, the concealer needs to provide good coverage with relatively easy application.  I like thicker concealers, but I want a concealer that is so thick that it is like applying nearly dry paste to my under eye circles.

I am a fan of Physicians Formula products, but usually wait for the brand to go on sale at the drugstore as the regular price can be relatively higher than other brands.  It looked like this product fulfilled my conditions, so I was eager to try it out.

The Physicians Formula Concealer 101 comes with a yellow shade to color correct dark under eye circles and a light shade to cover yellow and any minor skin irritations.  The package contains a small applicator brush.  I have to give this product a thumbs down.  The consistency is just too thick and the coverage is too patchy.  The concealer is also so thick that it is difficult to extract the product to apply to the skin.  The small applicator brush in the compact is of absolute no help to serve the product's intended purposes and claims.  Back to the drawing board to search for another concealer.

BEAUTY REVIEW: Maybelline Expertwear Quad Eye Shadow in "Plum Smokes"

SOURCE:  Drugstore.com

I have to admit that I am a huge fan of Maybelline's Stylish Smokes quad eye shadow in "Natural Smokes."  In fact, I previously did a review on that product.  It's a great "go-to" every day eye shadow that you can wear day or night.  Thus, I was looking for more Maybelline eye shadow quads to add to my collection.

I noticed the Maybelline Expertwear Quad in "Plum Smokes" one day as I perused the makeup aisle at the drugstore.  I tend to gravitate to eyeshadows in plum shades and thought this might be a good quad for a day or evening look; just like the "Natural Smokes" quad.

I was right!  I love this quad!  The four shades are separated as follows:

1. Base:  Light peachy shade
2. Lid:  Lavender shade with slight gold undertones
3. Crease:  A subdued violet shade
4. Liner:  A rich chocolate brown shade with a slight sparkle finish.

I follow the numbered sequence on the package, but are more than welcome to mix and match the shades with others you may already have on hand.  These shadows go on easily and lasts long if applied with a good eyeshadow base.  The only drawback I can tell with this product is the packaging.  I really don't understand why Maybelline went from four equal squares to two long ones and two short ones.  To top it off, the rectangular eye shadows (base and liner colors), so you will run out of the based color fairly fast, which probably mades Maybelline happy as we find outselve buys more Maybelline products.  

RAMBLE: Co-worker Clutter

SOURCE:  Google

Today was the last day of work for one of my co-workers. She is moving onto another job and leaving behind her clutter.  I am supposed to move into her office space tomorrow and I am dreading what I will find as I bulldoze my way through her mess.

I am not the neatest person in the world and am ashamed to admit that my bedroom is looking rather cluttered right now with Christmas gifts that need wrapping and stacks of clothes that need to be donated to Goodwill.  However, I keep my office space in relative good order.  It is nearly impossible for me to produce neat and tidy work from a messy work space.  For some reason my brain is just not programed in that manner.

That is clearly not the case for my co-worker.  I was appalled to discover her office literally filled from floor to ceiling with STUFF...papers, files, books, shoes, trash, and even empty soda cans strewn haphazardly on the floor.  Every inch of desk space was covered and every book shelf packed.  Oh, and did I mention the smell?

She was reminded to clean out her office before she left work tonight because I would be moving into her office the next day.  The office space I currently have now will be filled by a new hire on Friday, so it doesn't give me much time to clean out her office and move my stuff in.  When I left the office this evening and peeked into her office, I didn't notice much progress.

Perhaps I am not cutting her enough slack and tomorrow I will arrive to work with a completely cleared out office to move into.  The power of positive thinking, right?  I have a feeling that I will be up to my ears in Clorox wipes, Swiffer dusters, Febreeze, and Mr. Clean Magic Erasers.  I better wear something comfortable because I will be lots of spring cleaning!

BEAUTY REVIEW: L'Oreal Voluminous False Lashes Mascara in Blackest Black

SOURCE:  Drugstore.com

Mascara is a makeup product that I wear daily, but don't really get that much bang for my buck.  I have really skimpy eyelashes.  They are short and sparse and really don't show up even with a ton of mascara on.  However, it is far better for me to wear mascara than without, so there I am every morning in front of the mirror; carefully applying mascara.  Honestly, I just don't have time in the morning to apply false eyelashes either.

I am always looking for a good mascara that will provide me volume and length.  However, the most important feature for me in a mascara is that it has to be waterproof and smudge proof.  I have gone through far too many tubes of mascara claiming to be both, but by lunch time, my raccoon eyes set in, which can be difficult to wipe away.

I was excited to hear about the new L'Oreal Voluminous False Lashes Mascara, which claims to have a lash sculpting fiber formula that adheres to lashes for a volumized, sculpted lash effect.  Lashes are supposed to appear fuller, longer, sculpted, and curled.  Furthermore, and of most particular interest to me, the product claims to be clump-free, flake-free, and smudge-free.  I was intrigued and decided to see how this mascara would perform on my wimpy lashes.

Unfortunately, I give this product a thumbs down for several reasons:

1. The wand is too long.  With a long applicator wand, I feel like I have less control of the mascara brush and application.
2. The applicator brush is too long.  I have small eyes on top of the fact that I have wimpy eyelashes, which makes applying mascara a little trickier for me, especially when reaching my corner lashes.  I  poked my eye more than a couple of times when I used this product.
3. The triangular shape of the mascara tube is hard to grip.  I am used to a round tube and the angles of this mascara tube do not comfortably fit in my hand or between my fingers.
4. You really need to build this product onto your lashes.  The formula has a drier consistency, which I prefer over a wet formula, but needs building with several applications to achieve a thick and full lash look.
5. The formula is not clump-free.  While building up my mascara, I noticed that my lashes were starting to clump together.  I had to stop before all I had was only a couple of spider leg lashes on each eye.
6. The formula is not smudge-free.  While I admit that I tend to have teary eyes, I noticed that by lunch, I was developing raccoon rings around the outer corners of my eyes.
7. The formula takes a little more elbow grease to remove.  I use the Physicians Formula Cleansing Lotion to remove my makeup.  I love this product because it takes off all of my makeup, including my waterproof mascara with little rubbing.  I needed to do a little more rubbing to remove this mascara from my lashes.  I noticed clumps on my lashes even after I washed my face, which I had to carefully remove by hand without pulling out my lashes.

I usually end up loving products that are raved about by YouTube makeup gurus, but this time I have to pass on this product.  Back to my favorite mascara--CoverGirl Lash Blast Fusion!

RAVE FAVE: Organization Tip for Hair Pins

Finally organized!

I've been meaning to for a very long time to get organized.  I am so tired of seeing my things from hair pins, accessories, jewelry, makeup, and handbags lie scattered though out my room.  It's not total chaos--more like controlled piles of things that belong together, but no real structured organization.

I love to watch videos on YouTube offering organizational tips.  I get ideas and inspiration from these videos, but the motivation doesn't last too long once I start looking at the prices of possible containers, baskets, bins, and furniture.  Then, the question becomes how many containers, baskets, and bins do I need?  I also am aware that I need to get rid of a whole bunch of stuff before I can even begin to organize and reduce the clutter.  Going through my closet and dresser drawers...[sigh]...now, that's going to take even more time.  So, I decided that perhaps I just need to start small and slowly work my way through my controlled chaos.

One area that needs some organization is my hair accessories.  I have accumulated over the years a huge array of pins, elastics, barrettes, and clips.  I've resorted to filling Ziploc bags and have an old Neiman Marcus box full of products that I bought as backups and I haven't touched yet.  Getting a measly bobbie pin in the morning can be a bit of an ordeal.

The containers stack neatly.

Today, while I was meandering through the aisles of Longs Drugs trying to find the plastic forks and spoons, I came across a trio of small plastic square containers.  I immediately thought that these containers would be perfect for my bobbie pins, which at the time, resided in a flat Snoopy tin I got for Christmas with paper trays to separate the different types of pins.

Now, my hair pins have a new home.  I placed my pins in the following manner:

• U-shaped bobbie pins and flat mini hair clips;
• Large bobbie pins and alligator clips; and
• Standard bobbie pins.

The best thing about separating my hair pins into containers is that they stack neatly--one on top of each other.  Now I can easily reach for a bobbie pin without rifling through a box of other hair clips, pins, and accessories.  Also, because the containers are clear, I can quickly find the type of hair pin I need.

The next problem, finding a place to put the containers.  Oh well...baby steps...

RAMBLE: Coffee Addict

A fresh cup of 100% Kona coffee at Orchids at the Halekulani

I admit it.  I have a problem.  I am addicted to coffee.  It has come to the point where if I don't have a cup of java, I develop a nagging headache, my mind is a little fuzzy, and...well...I am a wee bit grumpy.

This morning I woke up with a splitting headache that a couple of extra strength Tylenol caplets did not help.  I had a brunch to attend this morning, so I didn't have time to nurse my headache with a few more hours of sleep.  Besides, I knew the real reason behind my headache:  Lack of my morning cup of coffee.

My addiction is actually not that terrible when you consider that studies find that a cup of coffee a day helps prevent strokes, Alzheimer's disease, and certain cancers.  It's not like I am popping No Doze pills in addition to my morning java, or drinking gallons of coffee a day to keep the shakes away.  However, I admit that I am better off with my daily cup of coffee than without.

Needless to say, after my cup of coffee at brunch, my headache became a thing of the past.  The cobwebs cleared and I started to speak a little more cognitively.  I guess for now, my morning cup of java and I will be attached to the hip.  Sounds like a happy coexistence to me!

BEAUTY REVIEW: Conair Infiniti You Style Curler & Straightener

SOURCE:  Amazon

I've been looking for a new flat iron and curling iron lately.  I have an old Revlon wet and dry flat iron and curling iron that I mostly use to straighten my hair, but I wanted something that heated up higher.  While the flat iron feature does a good job with my hair, the curling iron does not get hot enough to keep the curl in my hair.

My hair is naturally straight and has a difficult time holding a curl unless a lot of product is used or the tool is a salon tool.  I find that drugstore curling and flat irons do not get as hot as the ones found in salons, at least in my personal opinion.

This opinion rang true until I found Conair's Infiniti line of hairdryers, curling irons, and flat irons.  The nano silver tourmaline heating plates create shine and volume without ruining or frying your hair.  Conair Infiniti has a You Curl product, which is a clip-less curling iron that is all the rage with YouTube beauty gurus.  However, I didn't hear about the You Style implement until I happened to peruse through the shelves of my local drugstore when Conair hairstyling tools were on sale.

The Conair Infiniti You Style tool is a flat iron and curling iron in one tool.  You can create waves or curls using the curved edge curling plates or straight styles using the traditional flat straightening plates.  The product comes with an instructional DVD to help you create different styles.

I used this to straighten my hair for the pin straight look and found that this tool left my hair silky, smooth, and shiny.  I kept running my fingers through my hair without any resistance.  The curling feature is a little trickier and takes some practice and more time to do, but once I got the hang of it, my curls lasted longer than they usually do when using my Revlon curling iron.

Some of the negative reviews regarding this product are that the curls do not form correctly even when following the instructions.  I found three tricks to help me achieve the curls I want:

• First, curl smaller sections of your hair to help disperse the heat better.  Smaller sections mean that curling your hair will take more time.
• Second, loosely wrap your sections around the "barrel" of the instrument before pulling the "barrel" down while holding the end of your section with your fingers.  Be careful that you don't burn your fingers while doing this.
• Third, pull down the instrument slowly through your parted section.  The slower you pull it down, the tighter curl you create.  Again, this method will take more time.

All in all, this product does what it claims to produce.  However, in the morning, I don't have time to curl my hair in the fashion that I just described above; thus, I end up using the flat iron feature.  I think I get faster results by using my old curling iron even though the curl doesn't hold as long.  Unfortunately, I just don't have time in the morning.

RAMBLE: Denim Fridays

SOURCE:  Google

I recently switched jobs and one of the perks of my new job is that we get to wear jeans on Friday!  I cannot tell you how much I appreciate casual Fridays.  While I appreciate the need to look and act in a professional manner, I also appreciate working in comfort.

Today I complemented my favorite pair of denim skinny jeans with a pair of five inch black peep toe Jessica Simpson platform heels (yes, I own a pair of Jessica Simpson shoes!), black camisole from Aeropostale, and tan and black horizontal half sleeve sweater from Style & Co.  I swear that I got so much done today because I was comfortable.  With jeans on, I find myself curled up comfortably in my office desk chair.  I don't feel the need to sit properly with my legs neatly crossed while making sure that my slip is not showing.  Don't get me wrong, I love to dress up for work, but I appreciate comfort too.

My previous job followed a strict dress code that explicitly stated that no denim of any kind was allowed, even denim jackets.  I admit that I was a bit of a rebel and wore tailored dark denim blazers.  The other piece of clothing that was banned was capri or ankle length pants.  While I understand prohibiting shorts or mini skirts at work, capri and ankle length pants are so much more comfortable and sensible for Hawaii's warmer climates.  Alas, my former boss is a traditional woman with a very strict mindset of how her employees represent the office and our profession.

While my new boss appreciates our profession and reminds us that we represent the office, he also recognizes comfort.  So, during our slower months of the year, we are allowed to wear denim jeans on Fridays, but of course within reason.  I usually bring a pair of slacks with me to work; just in case I need to meet with someone.  Other than that, I am essentially in my office getting my work done in comfort!

Well, I better enjoy is while it last because next month our busy season starts and we won't be allowed to wear jeans on Friday until May/June.  I plan to milk these last few Fridays of 2011 for all its worth!

SHOPPING THERAPY: Blingy Hair Bows

Pair of bow hair clips from Hello Beautiful

I know...Christmas is the season of giving when we all flock to the stores to buy something nice for someone on our Christmas list.  So, I did just that today.  In fact, I bought something for my mom and all four of the secretaries in my office.  That's five Christmas presents all together, so surely in the spirit of giving, it is only fair that I can give to myself too, right?

As the lovely ladies at Hello Beautiful were wrapping all of my Christmas presents for me (thank you!), I perused their large selection of jewelry and hair ornaments.  I am starting to collect a lot of hair clips, bows, and pins lately.  Hair ornaments are just so cute and cheerful.

I found all sorts of shiny and sparkling hair clips, combs, and pins as well as super cute headbands with glittery studs or colorful feathers.  I found these two bow hair clips for $6 each.  The black bow is adorned with shiny silver studs while the white is decorated with white iridescent studs.  Both are fastened by an alligator clip on the back and can be worn on the side or back of the head.  The store had other colors too, but I thought white and black were the most versatile.

I already wore the black one tonight at dinner.  I thought they were perfect for the holidays and can be worn all year young during the day for extra charm and at night for a little pizazz.  Happy Holidays to myself!

BEAUTY REVIEW: L'Oreal Lineur Intense Felt Tip Liner in Carbon Black

SOURCE:  Drugstore.com

Here's another quick beauty review as I am just exhausted tonight and ready for bed.  I admit that one of my must-have makeup products is eyeliner.  I have rather small Asian eyes, so without eyeliner, my eyes look tiny.  On the same token, I have to be careful that I don't use too much eyeliner, so that my eyes appear even smaller.

Another problem I have with my eyes is smudging.  Whether it is eyeliner, mascara, or eye shadow, if it's not waterproof or fortified with a primer, the product will smudge and I end up looking like a raccoon by lunch time.  Thus, finding a really good eyeliner that stays put on my eyes is difficult for me.

I prefer lining my eyes with a felt tip liner because I feel like I have more control rather than with a liner brush.  Furthermore, my liner tends to smudge even more with a pencil liner and I don't have to keep sharpening the pencil.  I was really hard pressed to find a good felt tip liner when Maybelline discontinued the felt tip liner I used to use in "Slate."  That was the only grey drugstore felt tip liquid eyeliner I could find at the time.

I was almost ready to panic until I found the L'Oreal Lineur Intense Felt Tip Liner in Carbon Black.  My Maybelline liner at home was down to its last few applications.  I was getting desperate, so I bought it at full price and crossed my fingers that it would work out for me.

It did!  I honestly admit that this is my Holy Grail eyeliner.  It doesn't smudge (even my favorite discontinued Maybelline felt tip liner smudged a little) and it goes on smooth and pigmented.  The felt tip applicator enables me to create thick dramatic cat eyes or think lines to enhance my lashes.  It is long lasting and I rarely have to touch up my eyeliner during the day.  Seriously, this is it.  I am done searching for felt tip liquid eyeliners now that I have this Lineur Intense liner!

BEAUTY REVIEW: Jane Long-Wear Eye Shadow Kit in "Reef"

Jane Long-Wear Eye Shadow Quad in "Reef"

I am really behind schedule tonight in posting my blog entry, so I am going to try to post this as quick as possible without compromising content.  About a month ago, I was perusing through Nordstrom Rack when I happened to find a display of Jane Cosmetics.  I heard of the brand before on YouTube, but did not know where to find this line on the rock I live on.

I quickly rummaged through the display stand and gathered quite a bit of items to try--mostly eye shadows and a bronzer.  At $3.97 for each item, how could I go wrong?  I admit that I went a little nuts, but was unsure whether I would ever see this brand in the store again!

I tried all, but one of the eye shadow quads thus far.  My favorite eye shadow quad so far is the Long-Wear Eye Shadow Quad in "Reef."  The picture on the Jane website does not do this quad justice, so I snapped a picture of the quad with my new camera that I just got for my birthday!

This eye shadow states that it contains certified organic ingredients, including jojoba and almond extracts. It is a mineral shadow that applies smooth with a hint of sparkle for a pigmented satiny finish.  I apply my Urban Decay Eye Shadow Primer Potion (UDPP) and then use my NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Strawberry Milk as a base color.  I then apply the pink shade (lower right-hand corner) all over the lid, the matte pewter grey shade lightly on my crease (top right-hand corner), and the deep violet shade (lower left-hand corner) on my outer crease/eye area.  I blend these colors with a fluffy blending shadow brush and then apply the cream shade (top right-hand corner) on my brow bone and inner corner of my eyes for highlighting.

I find that using the NYX Jumbo Pencil helps bring out the pink shade and the UDPP helps prevent creasing.  Although the product description claims that this is a crease-proof formula, I haven't tested out that claim by applying without UDPP.  Regardless, this eye shadow applies smooth and last throughout the day.  You can use this as a wash of color for work or darken it up for the evening.  I like the pigmentation of the deep violet shade.

So far so good...let's hope that Nordstrom Rack will continue selling Jane Cosmetics!

RAMBLE: It's Hard Being a Girl...Sometimes

SOURCE:  Google

Isn't there a song called, "I Like Being a Girl?"  I admit it.  I do like being a girl.  There are certain things that women can get away with that men are not able to in quite the same manner.  On the contrary, the same can be said about men over women.  While this debate can go on and on, I also have to admit that sometimes being a woman is not all that it is cracked up to be.

How should I put this delicately without overindulging in too much graphic detail?  Monthly visitor?  The curse?  Aunt Flo coming into town?  Whatever women call it, I am suffering through my "monthly" and am not a very happy camper.

Some women are lucky.  They experience very little discomfort or changes at all.  Hmph!  There are some women who really suffer every month and miss days of work.  Fortunately, I lie somewhere in the middle.  I don't get off scott free, but I don't do serious time either.  Between the menstrual cramps, bloating, and fatigue, I am also experiencing some mean indigestion right now.  I think that's the additional symptom that is causing me the most misery right now.

I've always had a delicate stomach ever since I was a kid.  Only recently (within the past couple of years) did I finally go ahead and get it diagnosed.  My hypochondria was acting up and I needed to get some real answers from a doctor rather than self-diagnosis off of the Internet.  After a really disgusting test involving drinking goopy barium, my doctor diagnosed me with a hiatal hernia, which was causing acid reflux and discomfort.  Stress, spicy foods, orange juice, and lying down four hours after I eat are to be avoided.  Simple to prescribe, just not as simple to follow.

Well, tonight I have a double whammy.  I still like being a girl, but there are just some things or combination of things that I could do without.

SHOPPING THERAPY: Drugstore Haul

SOURCE:  Microsoft Office

I spent a good chunk of my Sunday today in front of the boob tube.  This is a good thing since I really needed a day where I could sleep in and do nothing much of anything.  However, my day off resulted in some consequences today, like I failed to balance my checkbook, sort through my closet, and organize my dresser drawers.  It also meant that I delayed completing my must-do errands until much later this evening.

After completing my errands tonight, I stopped off at Longs Drugstore.  The only reason why I entered the store was to check out some of the Tiger brand thermos bottles on sale.  None of the cosmetic brands were on sale this week; probably because the store wants to concentrate on Christmas gifts, items, and decorations.  I really should had known better than to peruse the cosmetic aisles if nothing was on sale.  I really don't know what came over me, but before I knew it, I was picking up a bunch of items that I really wanted to try...TRY NOW.

So, here's the damage I sustained from my trip to the drugstore:

• L'Oreal Paris Youth Code Serum Intense Daily Treatment:  Various YouTube beauty gurus rave about this product, so I am really interested in giving it a whirl.  This serum is supposed to reduce signs of stress, fatigue, and aging.  Damage sustained = $24.99
• L'Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick in Fairest Nude:  Again, various YouTube beauty gurus rave about this lipstick and being that my favorite lipstick brand is L'Oreal, I've been wanting to try this shade for the longest time.  However, Fairest Nude is a popular color and always out when L'Oreal cosmetics are on sale.  Damage sustained = $8.95
• L'Oreal Paris Voluminous False Fiber Lashes in Blackest Black:  This is a new product that contains a sculpting fiber formula that adheres to lashes for a volumized, sculpted lash effect for lashes to appear fuller, longer, sculpted, and curled.  Damage sustained = $8.95
• Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller:  This formula is applied to the eye area to decongest puffiness and diminish dark circles.  The serum contains caffeine to combat puffiness and pro-vitamin B5 to refresh and hydrate the delicate eye area.  Damage sustained = $13.99
• Goody Ouchless Headband:  This is the only product I bought that was on sale.  This is a wide hairband with soft flexible tips to avoid pressure points and provide all day comfort.  Damage sustained = $3.14

I plan to do Beauty Reviews for each of these items in the near future.  Total damage sustained tonight?  $62.85, including tax.  Yikes!  By the way, I checked out the Tiger brand thermos bottles and ended up not buying any of them.  Again, I should've known better than to visit the cosmetic aisles.  What a costly visit.

RAMBLE: End of Another Season

UH vs. BYU at Aloha Stadium - Dec. 3, 2011

Today was the last game of the 2011 regular season for the University of Hawaii Rainbow Warrior Football team.  This game had a lot riding on it.  First, it was a long overdue replay of an old rivalry match up between UH and the Cougars of Brigham Young University.  And second, a win for the Warriors would mean an automatic bid to the Hawaii Bowl.

As a long time season ticket holder, I was looking forward to this game.  I remember as a kid the famous rivalry between BYU and UH under the old Western Athletic Conference composition in the 80s.  BYU was notorious for coming into town and beating us time and time again until one night in 1989, the Bows FINALLY beat BYU to the a sell out crowd.  I was there with my dad and remember the stands swaying from the record crowd jumping up and down in celebration.

Then, in the early to mid-90s, the composition of the Western Athletic Conference changed.  Many of the teams in the original WAC left the conference to form the Mountain West Conference.  UH was not one of the teams asked to join the new conference and instead the University stayed with the WAC and navigated through numerous changes in team composition.  I remember going to SMU and Tulane games.

Die hard UH football fans remember those good old days when the BYU game was the ticket in town to get and traffic into the stadium bled out of every entrance of the stadium parking lot.  Thus, tonight's game was one of nostalgia and was long overdue.

We knew that the Cougars were favored to win, but with a guaranteed pick to play in the Hawaii Bowl, it may be enough to inspire the team and push them to victory.  Sadly, despite a strong opening first quarter,  we were not able to pull it off.  Final score was BYU 41 - UH 20.

Thus, the football season is over.  Next season UH will be joining the Mountain West Conference just as BYU has left the conference.  It is uncertain when another match up between these two traditional rivals will occur again.  Thus, I am glad I attended to witness this event and take a trip down memory lane.  On to UH Men's Basketball!  Let's Go Bows!

BEAUTY REVIEW: Herbal Essences Body Envy Hairspray

SOURCE:  Drugstore.com

Yikes, I am behind the 8-ball yet AGAIN!  Here's a quick review on the Herbal Essences Body Envy Volumizing Hairspray.  When I bought this hairspray, it was an alternative purchase to my regular Suave hairspray standby.  Yes, I am kind of no-frills when it comes to caring for my hair.

Anyway, I was out of hairspray and for some odd reason my neighborhood drugstore was out of my favorite.  The Herbal Essences hairstyling products were on sale at the time, so I bought one to try.  I figured, "Hey, hairspray is hairspray, right?"  Besides, I watched numerous YouTube beauty gurus use this line of hair care products, so I figured it couldn't be all that bad.

The picture of the can is a little different from the can I own.  And yes, I prefer aerosol hairspray as opposed to pump.  I think the coverage and hold is better with an aerosol spray.  Despite the different can design, everything else appears to be the same.

I chose the volumizing spray as opposed to the other choices ("Set Me Up" and "Tousle Me Softly") because I was originally going to use this spray for teasing my hair.  In the end, I found this perfect for securing fly aways and setting my hair in place all day.  The only draw back with this product is that it is quite sticky upon application and leaves a stiff finish.  It is a great maximum hold spray, but be prepared for some crunchy curls.  A good shampoo will do the trick though to get the product out of your hair at the end of the day.  I like that the Sunset Citrus scent is fruity and fresh.

However, I will be running out of product pretty soon, and I admit that I will be going back to my good 'ol standby.  Some habits die hard...

RAMBLE: Going Retro...

SOURCE:  The Vermont Country Store

It's the first day of December and I am already running behind the 8-ball on my "Blog-cember" initiative!  This post will have to be fast if I am to make it before midnight!

Tonight I was looking through my pile of holiday catalogs and came across a catalog I never seen before.  At first I was going to toss The Vermont Country Store catalog as it appeared to offer only a election of smoked meats and flannel robes, but I decided to take a closer look anyway.

Thank goodness I did because I found a whole bunch of retro items that I haven't seen in years!  This pink old fashioned dial telephone is the exact replica of my grandma's old phone that she used to keep in one of the bedrooms of her house.  My grandma loved the color pink, so it was clearly the right choice for her to get a pink telephone to match her style and tastes.

For $59.95 plus shipping and handling, you can be an owner of the "Princess Phone," which is an authentic 1959 replica.  Can't you just imagine Gidget lying on her bed talking to Moon Doggy?  What a great gift for someone who is into retro pieces!

SHOPPING THERAPY: Clarks "Ruby Diamond Booties"

SOURCE:  ShopStyle.com

My Black Friday shopping bled over to Saturday today.  While I was shopping at Macy's yesterday, I found TWO pairs of shoes that I wanted.  I know, I really do not need more pairs of black shoes, but I honestly can't help myself sometimes.  The first pair was the BCBGirls "Ariel" peep toe pump, which I blogged about yesterday, and the other was this super cute bootie.

While I was trying on shoes, the lovely and helpful Macy's sales associate admitted to me that these booties from Clarks was part of the store's morning specials.  She explained that if I bought these shoes that afternoon, it would be on sale for $79, but if I came back on Saturday before 1:00 pm, I would get these shoes for $48!  For that discount, it was totally worth coming back down to Downtown Macy's the next day for a great deal!  She even placed my shoes on hold for me!  Thanks!

Clark's "Ruby Diamond Booties" are suede low ankle booties with shoe string laces and a 2-1/4 inch chunky heel.  The OrthoLite footbed provides extreme comfort and Ultra-Flexible Bendables TPR outsole conforms to your gait, which creates a comfortable and stylish walking shoe.  These shoes are great for traveling and wearing with slacks or a comfortable pair of jeans.  I am planning on tossing my other mid-calf boots and replacing them with this pretty pair!

The original price for these shoes is $120, but today's morning special value deal was $48, which with tax brings the grand total to $50.26.  I saved $72!  What a steal and totally worth me fighting the crowds again.

SHOPPING THERAPY: BCBGirls "Ariel"

SOURCE:  Amazon.com

Today was the infamous "Black Friday."  I am not a fanatic of Black Friday.  I loathe crowds.  I'd rather spend the day after Thanksgiving sleeping in and nursing my indigestion from my binge eating the night before.  In fact, for the past four years, I've avoided making the decision about whether I should brave the crowds by reporting to the office instead.  However, this year was different.  I didn't have work to save me and my mom was itching to get out of the house.

As a result, I developed a Black Friday strategy because no matter how much the sales may entice me with flashy big discounts, the crowds of eager and aggressive shoppers are enough to keep me home where it's safe.  My mom and I figured that the stores in Downtown would be far enough away from the malls and super stores where most of the crowds would be clamoring about.

Now, I realize that Black Friday is supposed to be the official beginning of the Christmas shopping season where the theory behind the ordeal is to buy gifts for others.  However, I am embarrassed to report that I spent more on myself than on others today.  One of things I found was this lovely pair of super comfortable peep toe pumps!  This BCBGirls glossy patent leather open peep toe dressy pump has a square open peep toe and rolled edges that are super comfortable for your toes.  The pump has a 3-1/2 inch curvy heel.

I've seen these heels at Macy's for several months now, but never on sale.  BCBGirls shoes usually have a pretty price tag, which scare me away.  Besides, I have more than enough black peep toe pumps.  However, when I saw these pumps on the clearance rank in my size, I knew the shopping gods were sending me a divine message from above.  The original price is $79.00, but today's value is $39.50 (50% off the original price) with an additional 10% off by using my Macy's card.  Thus, the grand total with tax came out to $37.22.  Yay me and I didn't have to fight the crowds to score my prize!

SHOPPING THERAPY: Nine West "Leopard Jacquard"

Source:  ShopStyle.com

I keep telling myself that I don't need another handbag.  I have a huge pile of handbags from tiny clutches to enormous travel totes in the corner of my bedroom.  Some of these items, I am ashamed to say, still have their price tags attached to them along with the tissue paper stuffing.

I admit it...I think I have a problem.  I just can't seem to resist taking a peek in the handbag section.  I try to resist the temptation, but the gravitational pull is just too strong for me sometimes, especially when I am stressed out and am in desperate need for some retail therapy.  It's been a really long and bad couple of months at work, so I've been long overdue for some therapy.  At least that's my story and I'm sticking to it!

Today I accompanied my mom to Macy's (aka my home away from home).  I was not in the market to buy anything in particular (isn't that how all shopping spree stories start?), but just had an urge to look at what was available.  We took a peek at the handbag department and started perusing.  And then...I saw it!

The Nine West Leopard Jacquard is a medium shopper style printed tote bag with silver-toned hardware, buckle detailing, a bold embossed faux leather panel, and a metal logo plate.  The inside of the handbag is divided into three compartments with a center zippered compartment that is perfect for wallets and other valuables.  There are separate side compartments for your keys, cell phone, and other electronic devices along with an outside zip pocket for additional items.

I have to admit that I instantly feel in love with this handbag, especially when I found out the price.  Macy's was having a special sale today and many of the items in the handbag department were marked down with an additional savings when using your Macy's card.  This handbag was originally $89, but today's value price was $44.50 with an additional 15% discount by using my Macy's card for a grand total (plus tax) of $39.60.  I saved a total of $51.18!  With that level of savings, how could I pass it up?  Again, that's my story and I'm sticking to it!

BEAUTY REVIEW: Nails Inc. Magnetic Polish in "Houses of Parliament"

A shelf of magnetic polishes at Sephora.

Several weeks ago, I found out about magnetic polishes through one of the lovely ladies I follow on Twitter.  I was instantaneously intrigued by this striped look, especially without the application hassle of the Sally Hansen Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips.

I was excited to get my paws on one of these bottles, but a little hesitant once I realized that each bottle costs a whopping $16!  I admit that I indulge in makeup from time-to-time, but I always justify my high-end purchase with reasoning such as, "Look how many colors I will be getting in a palette," or "Look how much I will be getting in a bottle."  Unfortunately, those lines went out the door with this bottle because I found out that there are only two color choices available at my Sephora and each bottle of polish contains less polish than a bottle of OPI polish (which is cheaper).  What to do...what to do...??

Still, I had to get my paws on a bottle.  I watched the product reviews on YouTube and scoured over blog posts regarding this polish.  I had an urgent need for some retail therapy after a terrible day at work, so I walked into Sephora and acted as though I was leisurely perusing through their merchandise when really I was desperately casing the joint for the magnetic polish.  Voila!  I found it!  Several rows of Nails Inc. Magnetic Polish calling my name and chanting, "Buy me!  Buy me!  Buy me!"

Nails Inc. Magnetic Polish in "Houses of Parliament"

Then came my next dilemma:  Which one?  Sephora had a silver shade in "Trafalgar Square" and a deep purple shade in "Houses of Parliament."  Note:  Since my purchase, Nails Inc. has released a third color, which is a teal shade in "Whitehall."  After a lot of private deliberation--after all, I refused to get BOTH shades in fear that I may not like it and then be $32 in the hole--I decided on the deeper purple shade.  While the silver shade was gorgeous in the bottle, I thought "Houses of Parliament" was a little more versatile. I decided I needed a little more retail therapy and picked up a bottle of Sephora from OPI in "Be-Claus I Said So," which is a glitter polish with small and medium bright red sparkles.  I thought it would be a perfect overlay on my OPI "I'm Really Not A Waitress" for the holiday season.

I intended to use my new magnetic polish for Halloween, but got busy and wasn't able to try it out until last weekend.  After watching several videos on YouTube, I was confident that I would be able to achieve the magnetic effect correctly.  The bottle has two caps:  The larger outer cap has the magnetic strip that is needed for the magnetic waves on your nails, and a smaller inner cap that contains the brush applicator.  Remove the larger outer cap and place it away from the bottle.  This is the process I used to achieve my magnetic effect:

• Applied one coat of Revlon Base Coat.
• Applied a thin coat of Nails Inc Magnetic Polish in "Houses of Parliament."
• Working one nail at a time, applied a thicker coat of Nails Inc Magnetic Polish and then using the magnetic strip located on the top of the outer cap, carefully placed it above each recently polished nail.  Use the small lip at the bottom of the magnetic strip as a guide by placing the lip at the base of your cuticle.  Be careful doing this because your don't want to hit your wet nail against the magnetic strip and ding your polish (like I did on one of my nails!).  You can also slowly rock the magnetic strip cap from side-to-side to cover more surface area.  It only takes a couple of seconds to achieve the magnetic effect, so do one nail at a time--apply second coat and then immediately use the magnetic strip--for best results.
• Applied a top coat.

My nails using Nails Inc. Magnetic Polish in "Houses of Parliament"

This is an opaque polish that has a metallic sheen, but a matte finish, so a top coat is necessary for a high glossy finish.  It took me a couple of nails to figure out the best way to achieve the magnetic waves on my nails, but once I got the hang of it, it was pretty fast and easy.

I followed the instructions on the Nail Inc website, but I saw a couple of videos where only one coat of polish was applied.  The polish is on the thick side, so I slowly and carefully applied it to my nails.

These were my nails the morning after I applied the polish.  I wore my polish for about a week and got rave comments from the ladies in my office.  Even my boyfriend thought it looked pretty cool and he usually doesn't notice my nails (i.e., typical guy!).  It lasted okay with moderate chipping around the edges, but not too noticeable.

All in all I am completely satisfied with this polish and am thinking about buying the silver and teal polishes as well, but perhaps at a later time.  I am still getting over the fact that I bought a $16 bottle of nail polish!