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Monthly Archives: March 2012

Gnu Bars from Gnu Foods

29 Thursday Mar 2012

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I first heard of Gnu Bars from Marisa Miller who said “I carry Gnu Flavor & Fiber bars with me in case I need to eat on the run.” While I try not to rely on any kind of bar whether it be a snickers, energy bar, or some variation of a sugar-laden processed candy bar with vitamins thrown in for a “health” on the label, I did find myself intrigued after researching Gnu Bars for their fiber content. Fiber has a lot of health benefits and a single Gnu Bar can fill almost half your daily fiber needs.

I tried a variety of Gnu Bars from Banana & Walnut to their new flavors like Blueberry Cobler, Blonde, and Carrot Cake just to mention a few. They were all delicious and packing only 130-140 calories a bar, they made for the perfect snack to reach for to hold me over till lunch. If you’re a fan of an expresso and brownie from Starbucks, I highly recommend the Chocolate Brownie and Expresso Chip, not only will it save you a lot of calories but they taste so good.

Overall, I’m an official fan of Gnu Bars by Gnu Foods. They will probably be the only bars I’ll be eating because even with the 8-10g of sugar, it beats out the 20+ grams I’ll get from most bars (yes even the ones labeled ‘healthy’ and are hard as a rock). And as a fan of fiber and taste, these bars take the cake- no pun intended. 

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Rain Cosmetics Lip Therapy for AIDS Walk 2012

29 Thursday Mar 2012

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Former Miss Universe, Dayana Mendoza, has been competing on Celebrity Apprentice to win money to combat in the fight against AIDS. The Venezuelan native who won the title of Miss Universe 2008 in Vietnam said “The point is to help”, after handing a check for $20,000 to The Latino Commission on AIDS— an organization focused on giving Latinos the help, support and research needed to fight HIV/AIDS. Beauty giants, organizations and household names like Mendoza have made the fight against AIDS a well-known cause and made helping accessible to the masses.

Rain Cosmetics has joined in the fight against AIDS through its unveiling of the Limited Edition Lip Therapy. You can do more than just purchase this luxurious balm where 100% of proceeds will go to Aid for AIDS of Nevada. If you are planning to be in Las Vegas on April 15th, feel free to join the Rain Cosmetics team at AIDS Walk Las Vegas 2012. The team is registered with the Penn and Teller Challenge, who will be matching all of the donations.

Beauty is not just a face, it’s an act that can impact the person next to you. So make it a point to help a cause that can truly help the lives of others. Those interested in supporting Aid for AIDS of Nevada can register to walk with Rain Cosmetics, make a donation, or purchase a Special Edition Lip Therapy at  www.raincosmetics.com/AFAN.

LUSH’s Fluffy Egg Bath Bomb

27 Tuesday Mar 2012

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Sweet & Delicious! Those are the words I’d use to describe the Limited Edition bath bomb. If you love and miss the discontinued Candy Fluff dusting powder, the scent of this bath bomb will surely bring back the memories. With scents of cotton candy, vanilla ice cream, and bubblegum, this densely sweet bath time treat is perfect for those who love sugary scents and pink water.

Fitness Buddies: Not Every Goal Is The Same But The Results Keep Inspiring Commitment

27 Tuesday Mar 2012

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The past few months on a weekly basis, I’ve been meeting with my friend’s sister, who has turned out to be a great friend of mines from our time spent together. Back in January we had a very sporadic talk about weight, and I spoke about some of my goals. That conversation led to me bringing my scale and measuring tape over to my friend’s house on January 30, 2012. We discovered my very kind, sweet mother of three was at 287lbs. Since then, we’ve done walks together, I’ve taught her about counting calories, nutrition, BMR & BMI, and we’ve forged a path specifically for her. I’ve been so proud of her commitment that it inspires me to keep focused on my goals even though they are quite different.

Yesterday, March 27th, my friend and I had a celebratory cheat meal and a nice long walk afterwards. Why the celebration? My strong, beautiful, committed friend was given a surprise early weigh-in (we originally scheduled her weigh-in for April 1st) and she took to the scale and weighed 286 and after measuring her and doing the math, her commitment gave her a loss of 19 lbs and 17.5 inches. FYI: One gallon of whole milk weighs 8.6 pounds. We were both excited, in awe, and couldn’t wait to share the news with her family. I expect to see greater progress in the future as we incorporate more exercise and nutrition into her lifestyle. Starting off slowly has surely paid off ten-folds. 

The Perfect Cheat “…I always ask myself if I’m feeding my body or if I’m feeding my fat”

23 Friday Mar 2012

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If you scroll through some Health & Fitness Tumbler and Pinterest pages you’ll likely stumble across this hilarious but insightful message.

Saying “oh i’ve already ruined my good eating today i’ll just eat crap” is like saying “oh i dropped my phone on the floor i’ll just smash it till it breaks.” It’s silly and doesn’t make much sense. Sense, however has little to do with our choices regarding eating.

I think anyone can relate to having a soda, candy, or fast-food and somehow feeling guilty and thinking you’ve just ruined your diet and essentially eliminated your goals for healthy living. And while that guilt eats up at your heart, you start inhaling Flamin’ hot Cheetos and a Mug Root Beer… oh yes, I’ve been there.

As someone who has successfully battled the bulge for myself and interacting with others I believe in a ‘Cheat Meal’. We’ve all heard of ‘Cheat Days’ and I think during the initial phase of starting a diet program it can be beneficial to some. However, I prefer having a ‘Cheat Meal’ as opposed to a ‘Cheat Day’ not only because it can be less calorie-dense but it reinforces lessons about self-control that you should be learning as you adapt to your new lifestyle. Food can be addicting, especially the over-processed foods that are widely available. It’s reasonable to assume you might give into your cravings and you shouldn’t feel shame or guilt when you indulge. That’s right, indulge, we all have indulgences such as getting our nails done or your boyfriend’s once-a-month golf trip, and healthy eating habits should offer indulgences too. You just have to make it a point not to over-indulge.

I try to plan each month with the idea that I may indulge myself with 2-4 ‘Cheat Meals’ a month, I space my meals throughout the month and try to align all but one with birthdays or gatherings. I save one ‘Cheat Meal’ for unplanned and impulsive response to either a very enticing menu or a rumbling-tummy that is craving something won’t add to my nutrition intake but will delight my taste-buds. To make this work for me, planning has always been key. I always have apples and almonds on me to snack on, and if I’m going out to eat, most times I will go online to investigate my menu so I have an accurate idea of what options would be best for me, even if it means I only get an appetizer, salad and water. I plan out my schedule to allow me to eat a meal or snack every 3 to 4 hours so I never feel hungry. I try to have the bulk of my diet consist of fruits and vegetables not only because of the nutrition value but because when I find myself eating foods that are good for me I end up not needing to count and obsess over calories. And when I say “foods that are good for me” I don’t mean I live on protein shakes and energy bars because while there are some benefits to incorporating them into your diet there are some definite detriments to having your diet be based on them.

Another important thing to do is to clearly define what a ‘Cheat Meal’ is to you. For me, a ‘Cheat Meal’ is something that is 200 calories or more from what I would normally eat for a meal. And sometimes a ‘Cheat Meal’ is a snack which may not be as high in calories but lacks nutritional value. I always ask myself if I’m feeding my body or if I’m feeding my fat. If the answer is fat, then in my opinion it’s a ‘Cheat Meal’ regardless if the label says ‘No Fat’ but is extremely high in sugar. The perfect cheat for me is one that gives into the cravings of my taste-buds and leaves me feeling full and satisfied.

As always, consult your physician before pursuing a major change in your lifestyle and make time to educate yourself about nutrition. Also, while sites dedicated to fitness or healthy lifestyles can be a good source of motivation, anything that makes you feel guilty for eating, promotes hating your body, or valuing one that harmful to your health is not worth visiting. I leave you with the words of Marisa Miller and hope you have a day that moves you forward mentally and physically.  

I prefer healthy food and try not to bring too many treats into my house. But I don’t believe in depriving myself either. When I go to the movies, I have a sugary soda, not a diet one. And if I want a burger, I’ll have a burger. I just make it a point not to eat one five days in a row. Some nights [my husband will] bring home french fries, and I have to resist them! I decide to say ‘no’ and then make something else, like a veggie burger. It’s not always an easy choice, but it’s a healthier one.”                           -Marisa Miller

What to wear to The Hunger Games Premiere

20 Tuesday Mar 2012

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I will admit I’ve not seen any of the Twilight series and possibly only one of the Harry Potter movies, but I’m really actually excited to see The Hunger Games. With The Hunger Games to be released nation-wide you might be wondering what to wear for this soon-to-be massive hit. If you’re Jennifer Lawrence or one of her castmates, you’ll probably wear a fancy dress that pays homage to your character or a nice suit. But if you’re just a fan like a Trekky (hmm… Hungry? perhaps) then you might want to stop by Toys ‘R’ Us, who is selling replicas of the training uniforms ($27.99) that the Tributes, Katniss and Peeta, of District 12 wear during their training scenes in The Hunger Games.

Metromint Chocolatemint Water

16 Friday Mar 2012

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I’ve been a big fan of Metromint water pretty much as soon as I found it on the shelves at my local grocery store. Since then, the Metromint line of flavors has expanded to include my new favorite ‘Chocolatemint’. It’s cool and refreshing with a burst of mint flavor but also a hint of chocolate that makes my cravings for a peppermint patty go away. And even when I brought a few bottles to share with some of my sugar-craving friends, it was nice to know that they found this flavor refreshing and delicious.

I have a hard time digesting artificial sweeteners (sadly, even stevia) and a lot of times when it comes to wanting a flavored water, I actually don’t care for the sweetness or else I’d be buying juice. I love that Metromint doesn’t use any artificial sweeteners or sugar for that matter so I can enjoy and honest 0 calorie drink with a real flavor. Bonus factor is when I feel a little nauseous I carry the ‘Peppermint’ flavor around to calm my tummy down, especially before I work out. Be on the look out for Metromint for your next refreshment.

Rain Cosmetics unveils two new shades of of Glam Lipstick

15 Thursday Mar 2012

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While we all might be still enduring the rain, wind, and all things that we don’t love about winter, it still shouldn’t stop us from embracing the beauty and brightness of spring. A great way to make your daytime look brighter in even the most dreary weather is to add a pop of color to your eyes or lips. Rain Cosmetics recently introduced two new shades in the Glam Lipstick line that are perfect for your puckers. With the DJ is a fun fuchsia perfect for a night out or simply blotted for a beautiful stain for daytime. Cocktail Hour is a deep coral color that is on trend for every skin tone for the Spring and will definitely take you from day to night during the Summer.

If your lips are still suffering from the drying effects of winter, pamper your puckers by using one of my favorite balms, Lip Therapy, daily. Also, slathering on a good amount of balm and gently rubbing the balm in a circular motion on your lips when they are chapped is a gentle way of effectively removing dead skin cells while prepping your lips for a perfect pout prior to putting on your favorite Glam Lipstick. 

Good Buy: Contigo AUTOSEAL Kangaroo Water Bottle

08 Thursday Mar 2012

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Staying hydrated is not such a hard thing to do because there are so many options conveniently available from water fountains, bottled water, and the variety of stainless still and BPA-free water bottles. And while some of us abstain from public fountains for fear of germs, we also may not want to contribute to the waste of one-time use plastic bottles so we settle for a reusable water bottle. But it’s sometimes inconvenient to carry your water bottle in addition to your gym membership card, id, money, and credit card when you want to go to the gym, hike, or run. Because face it no one wants to take sweaty money when you buy a banana after your workout. This is one of the reasons why I like the Contigo AUTOSEAL Kangaroo Water Bottle which comes with a storage compartment perfect for holding money, gym memberships, and other cards. The 24Oz container comes in a variety of colors. I love that I have yet to see any leaks or spills from this sturdy bottle. I can also use one hand with this because it doesn’t require you to unscrew the lid before you drink. 

 

McDonald’s My Meal Builder… I’m Lovin’ it!

08 Thursday Mar 2012

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I’ve been getting back on track with my health and fitness for a few months now. And while I’ve been off track and on track before, it is always so amazing to realize what I do to my body when I’m off track in terms of my diet. I know the media has been taking hard hits at McDonald’s but in all honesty, I have nothing but love for them. However, my vision of “I’m lovin’ it” then and “I’m lovin’ it” now are two different things.

McDonald’s is a convienient fast-food place where you can expect to find high-calorie items and all your guilty pleasures. But, it is also a fast-food chain that offers alternatives and opportunities to adjust your picks and portions to swap a calorie dense meal into something that is low in calories and dare I say, “healthy”. I thought I’d never be able to explain this but with the help of McDonald’s My Menu Builder I will show you how I traded 2230 calories for 340.

My Menu Builder is an excellent way for all of you to preplan and think about your order before you actually order, which is especially important for those of you who are watching your weight. This tool is especially helpful because even if we are watching what we eat, there are times when our friends may crave McDonald’s and you may not want to ‘give in’ but you also don’t want to be the only one drinking a cup of water while everyone is chowing down.

During the worst of my habit, I would go to McDonald’s often and at times, alone (I loved the drive-thru because if you order two or three meals, they will just assume your bringing food to other people and it’s not just for your greedy self). During my off-track period when I was refusing to be aware of anything but ‘taste’, I would normally order a Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Large French Fries, a large McCafe Iced Caramel Mocha (the weirdest thing… I don’t even like coffee! I don’t know where my self-control went but it apparently took my opinion too), a large Coke, and of course the 10-piece Chicken McNuggets. Yup, crazy but I’m probably not alone. Today I plugged in what I used to normally order into My Meal Builder and found that my horrible habit came with a whopping 2230 calories. Sad, but very true. None of these particular options were necessarily bad, I just didn’t need to eat them 5 times a week altogether. And in hind-sight maybe I should have paired one thing with a less calorie-dense alternative and it would have still been better than what I was doing. Those calories in one meal was well-over what my body needed to sustain itself for a day. I would also end up overly stuffed and very tired. Self-Control & Being Aware… lesson learned.

For the past three-months, I’ve been eating pretty clean, counting my calories, eating fruits and veggies, and staying away from sodas and most processed foods. I try to only consume things that only have 5 or less things on the ingredient label if I can help it (It’s a little hard to do with breads and tortillas but I limit the quantity with those and try to eat grains like wheat germ, oatmeal, and the alike). However, there are times when my friends are ready for McDonald’s and I’m more prepared to make wiser choices for myself. My typically order from McDonald’s which happens a few times a month include two side salads with Newman’s Own® Low Fat Balsamic Vinaigrette, a large Iced Tea (Not to be confused with the Sweet Tea… this is unsweetened, bitter, but have 0 calories and no artificial sugar), and a Ranch Snack Wrap- hold the Ranch sauce and grill the chicken. My low-cal lunch comes out to 340 calories which is low enough to where if I really wanted to treat myself to a cheat item I could swap the snack wrap for a big mac and not feel guilty as I would when I would order multiple value meals just for me. With this light meal, I don’t feel unsatisfied and I don’t feel tired and unable to complete my day.

If you haven’t checked out the McDonald’s My Menu Builder, try it out, even if you’re not only a health kick, it’s just interesting to play around with.

Side Note: Last Monday as my Health & Fitness pact-buddy drove to get our large unsweetened iced teas at McDonald’s after Hula practice, I divulged that I am so very obsessed with the new McDonald’s McCafe Shamrock Shake, when I see the poster and commercials for this delicious treat my mouth waters. In my head I now how it tastes and maybe if I keep up with my health commitment I may allow this limited-edition delicious delight to pass through my greedy lips… oooh minty. Drool!

Jessica Simpson bares her beautifully pregnant belly for Elle

08 Thursday Mar 2012

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Pregnancy is of course a beautiful thing to witness and experience (at least from what I’m told). Jessica Simpson is of course a beautiful woman (at least from what I see with my perfect vision). So, logically Jessica Simpson being pregnant and baring her beautiful belly would make a great magazine cover and ELLE magazine helped make that happen. In her interview, the Fashion Star judge who revealed she will be having a daughter, joked “Ah swear, ah will croak if she asks me for a pair of Nikes instead of Christian Louboutins!”

Simpson is not the first to bare her belly for a publication. Her fellow Teen-pop-alum sirens Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera have done so in ELLE, Bazaar, and Marie Claire. 

Actresses Paula Patton and Nia Long both showcased their impeding motherhood on their respective covers on EBONY magazine.

A-List Actress Demi Moore posed for Vanity Fair, Music Icon Mariah Carey posed for Life & Style while carrying twins, and Supermodel Cindy Crawford posed for W magazine.

Kardashian Kollection Women’s Ottoman Pencil Dress Sold at Sears, Seen on Stars

08 Thursday Mar 2012

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The Kardashian sisters are seemingly doing their part to help keep an iconic American company afloat. The Kardashian Kollection has done well with hits and sell-outs for the troubled Sears stores. From jeans, dress, intimates and more, the line of women’s wear has hit a sweet-spot with customers flocking to try on and buy their designs. Recently, celebrities like Dancing with the Star’s Co-host Brooke Burke, Celebrity Apprentice-alum Lisa Rinna and singer/actress Kristin Chenoweth have been spotted wearing the Kardashian Kollection Women’s Ottoman Pencil Dress. I like how this dress seems to fit every body type and compliment them from athletic, curvy, and slim. ( I know Chenoweth is petite but look at how that dress and pose show off her womanly curves).

I love this shade of red particularly with Khloe and in this picture for their ad campaign with her lips I can’t help but think of Khloe Kardashian as a modern version of Veronica Lake. Nope the deep wave isn’t there, but the freshness, stoic-nature (stoic is not a bad attribute in my opinion because I’ve always grown the respect the strength and beauty of those who carry this characteristic), glamour, and beauty is very much apparent. 

sto·ic/ˈstō-ik/

Noun:
A person who can endure pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining.

The Wedding Café Workshops

06 Tuesday Mar 2012

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Weddings have never been a topic high on my priority list because marriage is something that I foresee in my near future. And as a child, I honestly just wanted to be the Pink Power Ranger and that job doesn’t have time for a husband when you have to save the world from Lord Zedd. That said, when I get invited to a wedding, asked to do makeup or hair, or even playing the role of a bartender, I find myself overjoyed because there is something about being part of and witnessing a major moment in the lives of two people that makes you not only makes you root for them but also soak in the bliss and love they have for one another.

Fast forward to last week my freshly engaged best friend, Lindsay, asked me to join her sister and herself for a Workshop on Hair, Makeup, and Fashion hosted by The Wedding Café. Of course, I said yes but not because I’m anything like the characters Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson played in Bride Wars, but because Lindsay is my friend and a trip to Starbucks was also on the ticket (Score!). This was my first time seeing a workshop like this and to my surprise I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend anyone in or visiting Hawai’i who is planning for a wedding to check out these workshops. Why? Keep reading….

Lindsay had apparently been to previous workshops and as she and her sister were greeted by name at the entrance as well as the brides-to-be in front and behind us (And there were many brides, so that in and of itself impressed me, and let me know this ‘workshop’ is more like a community of brides… like a Bridal Cult and I say that with  love ♡).

As we were ushered into our seating area, I saw the room begin to quickly fill up with brides, bridal parties, sisters, BFFs, grooms (Yes, quite a number of guys were there too). Additionally, while I would say the majority of the room was filled with brides, I have to note that there were various age groups, sizes, and personal styles were present (which was good because love isn’t about discrimination and this event wasn’t about catering to just the one type of bride you might see on a cover of Modern Bride, this was and is for everyone.) I couldn’t help but hear a lot of the talk from the room about prizes, past and future workshops, about how great Tanna Dang is, while people took out their Ipads and notebooks. At this point, I wasn’t sure if this event was going to be as formal as my lecture classes in college or casual because I definitely felt like Carrie in Sex in the City and I had a feeling this was going to be fun. 

Tanna Dang is the owner of The Wedding Café alongside her husband Bryson. For the 10 minutes that we sat because we arrived a tad early, I kept hearing her name and how great she is. Words in the room used to describe Dang were; informative, smart, very funny, entertaining, and pretty much anything nice thing you’ve ever heard or could strive to be. Unfortunately, she wasn’t there at this particular workshop because she and her husband were on in Vegas to meet some famed wedding guru (very famous apparently because I heard some gasps as mouthed dropped and seemingly watered at the mention of his name… yup this is going to be interesting).

Dang normally hosts these workshops but due to her absence, Kayla Asing, who normally plays the role of Workshop Producer filled in for the role of host. Before, I was aware of her role, I noticed Asing as soon as she made her way into the room before the workshop, she was beautiful and had an endearing smile, I originally thought she was going to be a model for the workshop and have her already done hair and impeccable makeup be utilized for demonstration purposes. When she went on stage and stepped up to the microphone to announce Dang’s absence and her role for the night and continued to open the workshop, I found her persona comforting, entertaining, and funny. And if I went to another workshop, just as the people raved about Tanna, I would rave about how phenomenal Kayla is.

Asing introduced vendors who specialized in Jewelry, Hair, Makeup, Nails, Skin, Lashes, Wedding Gowns, Bridal & Groom attire. Asing’s interview style and probably her background as a producer help guide vendors into giving the most valuable information in a timely manner while still maintaining a high level of energy. At no point did I ever feel ‘Okay, this is taking too long’.

After each vendor spoke there was a brief Q&A as well as a chance for audience members to answer a question from what they had just learned from the vendor. The winning answer resulted in gift certificates from the various vendors, makeup & hair trial including some on site which was interesting as a spectator to watch. Another interesting thing to watch was to see people jump up to answer, including the men in the room. I even got excited putting my hand on Lindsay’s back in case I knew the answer (I have no idea what I planned to do, maybe grab her and throw her five feet above everyone like some acrobatic circus… that didn’t happen fortunately, but that is how excited I got, and I’m not even getting married).

The Wedding Café and its workshops in my opinion are an indispensable resource to brides and groom living or visiting Hawai’i. While the particular workshop I had the chance to experience was specifically for Hair, Makeup & Fashion, they have workshops for every facet of planning your dream wedding.

The specialists at this particular workshop included:

The Bridal Boutique

Beauty by Tania
Flaunt Makeovers 
Hair and Makeup by Natalie Flowers
Leslie Fair & Co.
Naturally You

Celebrity Tuxedos
Phil’s Tux

Luxe Lashes by Leanne Kirk
Salon Glitter
Touch Mini Day Spa

Mellow Antiques

Topics in past and future workshops include Photography, Budgeting & Timeline, Cake & Catering and everything you will need to know. The best part of these workshops is The Wedding Café brings the vendors to you like an intimate Bridal Expo. The workshops held at the Ward Conference Room along with the The Wedding Café located at Ward Warehouse in Honolulu is a one-of-a-kind friendly avenue to take to help plan, learn, and dare I say get more excited about your wedding. Dang, Asing, and the team members behind The Wedding Café are experienced professional, most of whom have already planned and had their dream wedding and can offer you personal experiences as well as professional advice. 

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Images courtesy and property of The Wedding Café

Good Buy: L’Oreal Voluminous Eye Kit

06 Tuesday Mar 2012

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Recently, I while I was making errands, I stumbled onto the L’Oreal Voluminous Eye Kit which includes a Smoldering Kohl Liner in Black as well as the new Voluminous False Lashes Mascara. While both items are available to purchase separately, spending the extra buck or two is worth it to get both of these items. I found it at my local Walmart and it cost less than 10 bucks, however it is available online at roughly $15+shipping.

The Smoldering Kohl Liner was not like traditional kohl liners I have used in the past. I can see why some people may either really like it or dislike it completely. For those of you who prefer very soft and creamy eye kohl like Stila Kajal eyeliner and even MAC’s eye kohl, you may dislike this one from L’Oreal. While it gives good payoff in a quick and easy swipe and could be smudged for a great smokey effect, I wouldn’t call it a ‘soft’ liner. However, that is what I appreciate about it. I tend to use two to three eyeliners for different purposes to line my eyes. While I wouldn’t recommend using it on the waterline like most of us may prefer, I love using it on my top lash line in place of my liquid liner because it’s intense enough and you have a couple of minutes to blend it out. I’ve read in other reviews about it smudging in a bad way, but, I have yet to experience that. If you tend to be heavy-handed with any sort of creamy liner or if you have oily lids, it’s a good idea to invest in a black eyeshadow like MAC’s ‘Carbon’ or Urban Decay’s ‘Perversion’ to set the liner so it has more staying power. All in all, The Smoldering Kohl Liner isn’t necessarily a ‘must have’ but it’s not a bad liner to keep on your vanity either.

*The kit comes with a sharpener because although the liner is short it is very chubby and won’t fit in your regular sharpener.

The False Fiber Lashes mascara is pretty awesome. For the record my favorite mascaras in no specific order are Make Up Forever Smokey Lash, L’Oreal Voluminious, and L’Oreal Extra Volume Collagen. I minimum requirements for mascara is that they don’t clump, don’t flake, makes my lashes thicker, but also defines them. Ultimately I love volume. I found after using the False Fiber Lashes mascara that this may become one of my favorite. I could see someone getting a spidery effect if they kept reapplying coat after coat. But I achieve volume and length with no more than a few strokes. Compared to my other favorites, I appreciate how ‘skinny’ the actual brush is, so I don’t have to be as careful when I’m doing my lower lashes and heading to my inner corner. Also compared to my favorites, this is like them but on steroids, I can get the volume I want with less coats. You may notice that the formula can be called ‘thick’ or ‘dry’ but I actually like that because I tend to do my mascara last and with wetter formulas if you accidentally push to far back you end up with spots of mascara that take forever to dry so you can pick them off. (Hint: Never swipe or try to remove a mascara mishap from your already dolled-up face while it is wet. It will only streak and stain. Wait for the mascara to dry and literally pick and scrap off the clumps with a Q-tip). All in all, The False Finer Lashes mascara, is a ‘must have’ for me and something I would recommend to a friend and those of you who like Make Up Forever Smokey Lash, L’Oreal Voluminious, and L’Oreal Extra Volume Collagen.

“It’s beauty that captures your attention; personality which captures your heart”. -Oscar Wild

Check out these reviews of this Kit before you buy:

Food Has No Gender, Right?

06 Tuesday Mar 2012

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When we think of foods like chocolate, yogurt, and salad, several images may come to mind. When we think about those foods, who do we think eats them? While I have yet to do a poll on it, I think the majority would imagine a female eating those items. And while the thought came into my mind as I was drinking a protein shake of “Wow I kind of feel like I’m drinking dude-food”, a bigger question came to mind. How does our perceptions of food choices shape our diet. 

Are women more apt to eat leaner cuts of meat because hearty red meats are for the buff and brawny? Were my girlfriends and I delving into the lives of Frat Boys when we ordered that X-large pizza while we were preparing for a group project in the dorms? Probably not. But if your dad or brother is a construction worker or works in another male dominated field, and they strict orders from their doctor to watch their sodium intake or possibly they just have weight-loss goals, would they still be likely to order a salad when “the guys” are ordering a pizza. Would his peers ridicule him for his choice in food.

I’ve had dinner at a fire station several times and to my surprise, the dinners would usually be well-balanced in terms of nutrition, with salad to boot. I remember feeling surprised because I just figured men tend to order pizza or fast food and not cook, at least not cook something nutritious. I can recall sitting across from a brawny and very handsome man and exclaiming how I love salad, and having him reply “me too” and we spent a good five minutes talking about styles of salads and favorite fruits and veggies. It was an eye opener for me and something that changed my perspective on what men eat. Do you think we as a society have gender stereotypes for food?

Beat the Bloat by Friday

05 Monday Mar 2012

Posted by in Health & Fitness

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It’s Monday but no sooner than the passing of hump day, Friday will be here. Bloating is an issue that we all face without discrimination to our age or size. Along with pain and discomfort, bloating can have a visual impact on how our bodies look and makes us want to switch plans for a night out in our LBD for a night in for leggings and a slouchy shirt. But, remember those who plan ahead are those who plan to succeed. Here are some tips and tricks to beat the bloat by Friday.

Eat Less Salt. Maybe you are not one to touch the salt shaker but, if you’ve never read the nutrition label of processed foods like chips, crackers, candy, etc then you’ve probably never noticed how much salt/sodium is in our favorite treats (even the sweetest ones). Make a move to eat less processed foods this week so your body can take a break on the very foods that promote bloating.

Eat fresh foods with potassium. Foods like tomatoes, spinach, melons, and citrus foods are rich in potassium. Potassium helps alleviate the symptoms of bloating due to sodium.

Drink Water. Help your body release the salt by drinking water. While soda’s and juice from concentrate are not recommended liquids. Initially, you might experience water retention for a day or two because salt retains water, but after consistently hydrating your body, you should see a decreased amount of bloating as the excess salt and water leaves your body because your body naturally likes to keep things that benefit you at the level it needs. If you’re a coffee drinker, a cup-of-joe will help you flush out your system. Just watch the sugar.

Alleviate pain with peppermint tea. Whenever I feel nauseous, I take a couple of whiffs of peppermint essential oil. When I experience bloating or cramping in the stomach area, I make a cup of peppermint tea. Peppermint tea is said to alleviate gas and relax the digestive tract.

 

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