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Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Presentation Day

   Today my group and I are presenting our experiment to the rest of the class. This class is the last in the statistical sequence for psychology, and I can't wait to be done! Math has never been my favorite subject, and I thought by majoring in psychology I wouldn't have to revisit it. Very, very wrong. But it's almost over! Hallelujah.

    While on the topic of things I dislike, presenting is something that gives me some serious anxiety. I start worrying about public speaking days in advance. Once I get in front of people, usually I calm down and get through it just fine. It's the few hours before that especially stress me out!

    For an extra boost of confidence, I like to dress up just a little. My logic is when you feel more confident, you're able to speak with more authority. Also, if you goof up, maybe they won't notice because they are too busy admiring your outfit. Maybe. I have a feeling my professor couldn't give a shit about my attire. But if it makes you feel better, why not right?


Blouse: Cable and Gauge (Macy's)
Skirt: Pilcro and the Letterpress (Anthropologie)
Tights: Target
Shoes: Naturalizer 
Earrings: Forever 21

Monday, November 28, 2011

A little about hair dye

   I used to be very, very blonde. It was a large part of who I was; "the girl with the super blonde hair." I'm not exactly sure what prompted my desire to go dark during my freshman year at Western. I think I wanted to move away from blonde stereotypes, and be taken a little more seriously. Also, starting college gives you a chance to rebuild your identity, and I didn't want to be "the blonde girl" anymore.


    So, just like that I went dark. It was a huuuuuge change, and for the most part I liked it. But after being so blonde, having dark hair felt...kind of dull. I needed some oomph. This is when I started to experiment with red, which I loved so much more. Sometimes I still miss my blonde hair, but the red feels more like me. Interesting how simply changing your hair color can make you feel like a whole new person!

   I get asked a lot about my hair color. Most people where I get it done at, to which I reply, "in my bathroom!" I simply don't have the money to get it done at a salon. Also, my mom used to be a hairdresser so she taught me how to do it myself. Back when I was blonde we would foil each other's hair, which would take forever. That's another thing I like about dark hair; simply squirting a bottle of hair dye on your head is so much easier than messing with bleach!

   Because I get asked about how I color my hair so often, I thought I would do a post about it. Now, I am no expert when it comes to coloring your hair. I have done it a lot, and sometimes it turns out better than others. But here is a very simplified explanation on how to mix your own color. Say goodbye to your box of color! Mixing it yourself is so easy, fun and more cost effective.


   First, the tools. You need a bottle (I like one that holds at least 8 oz.), plastic gloves, and an after color treatment/conditioner. I really like to use the Ion Color Sealer (shown above) right after my color.

  To mix color, you need the actual color and a developer. Developer comes in different levels; Level 10, 20, 30 and 40. Developer is what initiates the coloring process. Higher levels of developer means it has more strength. The stronger it is, the lighter it will make your hair.  Hair color comes in different levels as well that range from 1 (black) to 10 (blonde). Simply put, the larger the level, the lighter the hair color. If you are dying your hair dark, stick with 10, 20 and maybe 30 if you want more lift. 40 should really only be used if you are bleaching your hair. This is a very simple explanation; for a better one, go here.


   I like to mix 2 ounces of a red color with one ounce of a brown. I have found a bit of brown helps to neutralize the red a bit. Pay attention to the base colors. The red I used above had a pure red base, while the brown had blue and red. I usually choose different colors every time, so every time I dye it, it comes out a little differently. But I have found that adding a bit of blue will give it more of a purple-y hue, while adding orange, or red while keep it warmer. No big surprise here. This site has a better explanation of color bases.


   Then  add your developer! My dye called for even parts, so I put in 3 ounces. I used two ounces of 30, and one ounce of 20. Usually I only use 20, but I have been experimenting with 30. After this time, I will probably stick with 20 because it's less damaging.
   I have yet to run into a color that didn't need equal parts developer, but check the back of your hair dye bottle to be sure. Shake it up, and start applying to your head! Make sure you have combed through your hair to get the tangles out.


   I first apply the color to my roots, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. Because my roots are lighter than the ends, I like the color to sit a little longer there. This helps to create a more even color. Then in sections starting in the back, apply the rest of your color. I like to then make a bun on my head and let it process for about another 20 minutes. When you're done applying, be sure to wash your hands, and wipe off the dye on your face and neck.

  Wash your hair, and let the conditioner/treatment sit extra long. Your hair will thank you. Now go to Sally's and buy yourself some color and developer! Say no to the box. You will get more predictable results when you mix it yourself. Like I said, every time I dye my hair, it turns out a little bit differently. But that is part of the fun!

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Mint

I have been loving this minty, seafoam green lately, especially when paired with yellow or purple. It's just so fresh and beautiful!













Thursday, November 24, 2011

Thanksgiving

    My family usually goes to my grandma's house for Thanksgiving, but since she is in Arizona this year, we spent it at home. This resulted in a really laid back Thanksgiving, complete with sweat pants, plastic plates, delicious food and movies galore! It was really nice and relaxing.

   Already can't wait to eat a turkey and cranberry sauce sandwich tomorrow! I luckily don't have to work any crazy Black Friday hours tonight. Anybody participate in the Black Friday madness?


Wednesday, November 23, 2011

give me a (winter) break

    The days are getting short; I had planned on doing this outfit post outside, and by 5pm it was already dark. Losing daylight is one of the few things I hate about fall and winter.


Blouse: thrifted
Pants: Delias (see note below)
Jacket: Delias
Belt & Scarf: Delias
Earrings: Urban Outifitters 

Note about Delias: The reason I have a lot of clothes from Delias is because I worked there for a year as a supervisor. It was my first management position, and it was the worst job experience I have ever had. The company is terrible. They do not care about their employees at all and while some of the clothing is cute, most of it is not well made. I was so stressed out from working there, I started to lose my hair and would break out in hives whenever my skin was scratched. Since this horrible experience, I do not give them anymore of my money. I honestly wanted to lie and write all the items above were from somewhere else, just so they didn't get any kind of advertising. Avoid shopping at Delias. You can find the same quality and style from lots of other places.

Annnnyways!
Officially on Thanksgiving break! Although "break," is kind of a joke with Black Friday and so many things to do school wise. Winter break is where it's at. I can't wait to share my family's annual Christmas cookie baking marathon and finish my chair redo!

Things to do while on Winter break:
  • finish chair redo
  • read The Devil in the White City
  • visit Seattle
  • rearrange room
  • start doing yoga again
  • drink more tea
  • get passport
  • get ready for photojournalism class next quarter!
  • go to a few estate sales
  • figure out plans for new years eve!
  • finish gift shopping
  • take a nap every now and then
  • go see My Week with Marilyn

Monday, November 21, 2011

Brooke Webber







I love Brooke Webber's charmingly odd artwork. Visit her etsy shop, Little Canoe, here.
   This weekend was a good one; I went home and spent some time with my mom and sister on Saturday. I feel so lucky to have such an awesome family. My mom wanted to go see Twilight...my sister and I agreed. We sat next to each other to share occasional eye rolls and giggles. It was better than the past movies...still pretty ridiculous though. Sorry Twilight fans...I'm sure the books are better, but man those movies are awful. I think I saw Kristin Stewart smile in this one though, so her acting is improving! Can't say the same for shark boy though.

My mom and I dropped my brother off at a friend's house on the Tulalip reservation. He lives right on the water, with a beautiful view. I was so mad at myself for not bringing my camera. I did take a few with my camera, and while the picture isn't good, the view is still amazing.

Friday, November 18, 2011

Out my kitchen window




  This week has been so busy, and until the end of the quarter it's only getting busier. Just a presentation, some papers, and a few tests and then it's Christmas break! Ahhh, I can't wait.

   Despite being jam packed with school work, I tried to make a little room to spruce up the kitchen. I hate doing the dishes, so I having a few pretty things to look at sitting above my sink. I painted a few bottles I found at the Goodwill, bought some fake flowers and gathered my teapots. The black and white teapot above was a birthday present from Tommy. He always picks out the best gifts!


  I had to share these cupcakes/muffins I made. It was late and I was craving some kind of pumpkin treat. Being super tired, I grabbed a white cake mix, a can of pumpkin, some pumpkin spice and chocolate tips. I wasn't sure how these would turn out...but they were so delicious!

You need:
  • cake mix
  • 1 can of pumpkin
  • a tablespoon or so of pumpkin spice (I didn't measure how much I put it...just until it tasted good!)
  • chocolate chips (I used about a half bag)
  Follow the directions on the cake mix, and throw in the other stuff. I baked mine for about 20-25 minutes. So moist and delicious!

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

First Birchbox


  Finally got my first Birchbox in the mail today! I was pretty excited to see what little beauty samples awaited me.

 My box contained: Zoya fingernail polish in "Noel," a sample of Kate Spade's fragrance "Twirl," Supersmile toothpaste, Jouer lip enhancer and a Alex and Isabelle hair tie.




  Overall, I'm not super impressed, but not really let down either. Before trying it out I had read some bad reviews about Birchbox, saying that the samples were mediocre or bad. So I wasn't expecting to be blown away.

  The thing I'm most excited about is the nail polish, I never paint my nails and hate spending money on polish (it's so expensive!). Kate Spade's fragrance is nice, very fresh and sweet. The lip balm has a rosy scent to it, and feels good on the lips. But it's such a small amount, I'm sure it will be lost by tomorrow. The hair tie is nice...but let's be honest...it's a piece of elastic. And the toothpaste? Haven't tried it yet...but I have plenty of toothpaste. And I mean, it's toothpaste. I wanted beauty products, not oral hygiene products!



   I'm going to give it another month. Like I said, I'm not let down. I'm sure a lot of the $10 a month goes towards the packaging (which was super cute) and shipping. I just better not get any freakin' toothpaste next month, or pieces of elastic.

   What do you guys think? Total rip off? I was a little bit less excited about my box once I went to Birchbox.com and saw all the possible things I could have gotten. Beggars can't be choosers I suppose.

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Beach Plum Shadow Tutorial

   As I've gotten older, my skin care routine has gotten more complex, and my makeup routine more simple. I used to wear all kinds of crazy shadows and mascara colors when I was in junior high. At one point I rocked some MAC pink mascara. Not a good look. But towards high school, I became more low key.

  That being said, I work in cosmetics. So, I do need to wear different eye shadow looks every now and then. Usually I just wear a nude shadow with a liquid liner cat eye.

  When I wear eye shadow, other than a nude or grey, I am usually wearing Beach Plum by Clinique. It's the only purple I can wear without it making my dark circles even darker. It is probably the color I apply the most at work, because it comes with a great gold (I wear the almost gold everyday), as well as a pop of color with the purple. I would recommend Beach Plum for people with a gold, or neutral undertone.

  Before I start with the pictures, I want to give huge props to the beauty bloggers out there. It's difficult to do your makeup while trying to take pictures!


 First, prep your face. For me this includes eye cream, foundation primer, foundation, finishing powder and filling in my eyebrows.  Products used from left to right: All About Eyes from Clinique, City Block SPF 25 from Clinique, Everlasting Foundation from Clarins, Blended Face Powder from Clinique, and Brow Tech To Go from Smashbox.


 Prep your lids with some primer. This makes a big difference! It gives your shadow something to stick to, and helps prevent it from creasing. I used Clinique's Touch Base in "Canvas Light." Note to self: tame those eyebrows. 


 Sweep the gold shadow all over your lid, just above your eyeball, but not up to your brow.To do this, I used the Eye Shader Brush from Clinique.


Next, using a contour brush (I'm using MAC's 219 Pencil Brush) place the the purple shadow in your crease. Blending the shadow into your crease, stop when you get to the middle of your eye. Then place shadow from the outside corner towards your lash line. I like to tell my clients to make an inverted triangle, with a point on the outside corner.


Bring a little of the purple to the bottom corner of your eye. I like to apply shadow to only about 1/3 of my eye. Darkness around my eye area is a problem, and too much dark shadow makes my dark circles more noticeable. If this isn't a problem for you, and you want a more dramatic look, bring the shadow halfway, or even all the way if you're feeling crazy.


Should look somethin' like this when open. 


I sometimes like to give my eye a little more definition by taking a darker purple, and applying it to the very outer corner of my eye. I used Clinique's "Midnight Plum" pictured above. For some reason, I don't have a picture of me doing this...sorry! Just focus on the outer corner, blending it into the lighter purple.


Next, we are gonna add a little bit of liner. I used Clinique's Cream Shaper in "Egyptian," pictured above. This is my favorite color eye liner, it's a very unique blend of black, gold and green!


Using one hand to pull my lid outwards, I line my eyes from about halfway all the way to the outside corner. I don't have a very large lid, but if you do you could line your eye all the way to the inside corner. I like to take the liner a little past my outside corner, which makes them look larger.


If you wish, line the bottom of your lid as well. As you can see, I went a little further than halfway.




Now some mascara to the top and bottom. As you can see, I used Clinique's High Definition Mascara in "Black."


Ta da! To finish, I used a bit of Blushing Blush Powder in "Aglow" from Clinique, as well as a a bit of Clinique's Long Lasting Glosswear in "Clearly Pink."