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Sunday, December 30, 2012

Milani Liquif'eye Metallic Eyeliner Review

Finding the right eyeliner can be particularly tricky for me due to my oily eyelids and unforgiving waterline. Eyeliners never fail to smudge on me by the end of the day on my waterline/tightline. I have tried everything from using gel eyeliner (which is 10 times worse than pencil) to dabbing an eyeshadow over the eyeliner but it just always smudges! I decided to give up on my fruitless endeavor to find a solution to this problem. Instead, I've been trying to find products that could minimize the imminent smudging that occurs after 5 or so hours...or at least not make me look too much of a raccoon. 

I've been using the Milani Liquif'eye Metallic Eyeliner in Black for several months and I can say that I'm thoroughly impressed by its pigmentation and staying power. 




The left swatch is just from one stroke while the right swatch is from a few strokes. As you can see, the pigmentation is superb. This pencil is very black and I try to be careful when I apply this to my waterline (I only use it on my waterline or tightline) so it won't look too heavy or dramatic. This eyeliner is extremely creamy and glides smoothly. It lasted for around 4 hours on me in the heat and 5 hours in the cold before it started to show subtle smudges, which is great for my stubborn waterline. I would say by 8 hours, I definitely would need to have a cotton swab to clean up all the smudging that has happened under my eyes. Although there were some heavy smudging within 8 hours or so,  my eyes still looked quite defined after I swiped away the residue. When I looked closely into the mirror, I could definitely see quite a bit of eyeliner left on my waterline.

Some have complained of sensitivity issues when putting this product on their eyes. The first couple of times I tried this product, my eyes did water and felt a little itchy in the beginning but after 15 minutes, the problem went away. Since then, I never had that problem.

Considering that nothing seems to ever stay on my waterline (except for a product that I will rave about soon in an upcoming blog post), I would definitely recommend this product to those looking for a good, dark eyeliner, especially for their waterline or tightline. 

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Contemporary Times

I came across this on Facebook and decided to post this on my blog.

I couldn't have summed it up better. 

*UPDATE*: Apparently this is a slightly different version of Dr. Bob Moorehead's original speech, The Paradox of Our Time


The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways ,but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete...

Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.

Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.

Remember, to say, 'I love you' to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.

Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

NYC Sunny Bronzer Review

One of my favorite beauty products is bronzer. The powder can truly sculpt and slim your face while accentuating your cheekbones. I've been using this NYC Bronzer in Sunny for the past few months and I've been loving it. The color is not too orange or too dark and still manages to perform its job. I also like how the powder is matte versus shimmer, which can emphasize imperfections such as blemishes. On the other hand, I found it quite difficult to swatch it. I rubbed it on my finger and then on my forearm but I had to press my finger hard into the product to get any significant color payoff. When I swatched it on my arm, the color was there but is nearly impossible to blend, almost like a powder stain of some sort. I definitely do not have this problem when I use it with my Icing Contour Brush. The powder blends well on my skin when I use a brush. For retailing around $3, I would recommend this product to those looking for an affordable bronzer.

I took the following pictures under my dining room light and under natural light in my bathroom.

Under Artificial Light:


 Under Natural Light:

Last but not least, MERRY CHRISTMAS!! or HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!! :) 

Monday, December 24, 2012

Garnier Fructus Anti Dark Circle Eye Roller vs Maybelline Magic Lumi Concealer


Dang, I'm on a roll with these beauty posts.

As all students procrastinate their homework and studies, they lose a lot of sleep. The lack of sleep ensues in under-eye dark circles. Luckily, I have found a great concealer to cover up those tired imperfections.

I picked up from the drugstore the Garnier Fructis Anti Dark Circle Eyeroller and the Maybelline Magic Lumi Concealer.

I used the former for a year before buying the latter. You can probably infer that I loved the Garnier one if I used it got a year. And yes, I love it, but I was excited to try something new. 


Pro: I love the packaging of the product because it's easy to apply with a simple swiping motion and the roll administers the right amount of product but is also cool to the touch. The color blends smoothly and nicely under my eyes and conceals my dark circles nicely. The product stuck through the blistering heat during the summer and by the end of the day, some of the product faded but I would say it still held well. Now that winter is here, I definitely have no problems with the staying power.
Con: None. Yes, it's that awesome. 
Will I repurchase? Of course

Pro: The product is more opaque than the Garnier one and the product does "brighten" the area like it's supposed to. 
Con: I unfortunately purchased a shade lighter than what I am. I was debating between this one and the next shade up, Radiant, which I thought would be too pink-toned for my skin. The packaging was a downside to the product because 1) it's plastic and cheap 2) the labels/font peels off easily (as you can see from the pic) 3) the twist and brush-tip applicator is slightly irritating in my opinion. Although I know I don't purchase a product for its packaging, it's still a nice touch. Regarding the effectiveness of the product for dark circles, this concealer just didn't do it for me. It was difficult to blend and a little streaky. I don't want to have to rub it in such a sensitive area for it to blend. However, I find it works well for highlighting my cheekbones and the bridge of my nose, which is what I've been using it for. 
Will I repurchase? Hmmm...depends, perhaps for a highlighter but definitely not for an undereye concealer. Most likely no.
Left: Garnier Concealer in Light/Medium , Right: Maybelline Concealer in Ivory
As you can see, the Garnier concealer triumphs the Maybelline one in doing its job. I consider the Maybelline Magic Lumi to be more of a highlighter than an actual concealer. Although the Maybelline concealer was not necessarily bad, I just expected more from it due to my high expectations set by the Garnier concealer.

Icing Brushes Review

I'll admit that I never owned a proper contouring brush or a powder brush. I had more of this tiny brush, which looks like like a jumbo-sized eyeshadow brush, which I used for bronzer and blush. The tool was a nuisance to use because it was a longer in shape and would move easily when I brushed it over my face. However, I could never get myself to invest in a Mac brush and I was too scared to splurge on Sigma brushes (because if I was going to buy from Sigma, it would be a ton at the same time, no way am I paying for shipping more than once).

When I walked into Icing, the accessories store owned by Claire's, my mom, who I was shopping with, gravitated toward these make-up brushes. I instantly told my mother that they were probably cheap and valueless. I went over to feel the brushes and to my pleasant surprise, the quality of the hairs were actually good. They retail for around $7 and the hairs are extremely soft and gentle. I purchased the Powder Brush and the Long Kabuki Brush. I use the former for my blush and bronzer (RIP wobbly brush) and occasionally use the kabuki one for the same products or powder (although I hardly use powder because I have extremely dry skin). All in all, I would definitely recommend these affordable yet good-quality tools to anyone that has an Icing nearby.

Icing Powder Brush
Icing Kabuki Brush
P.S. I apologize for the mediocre quality of the photos, I'm working with a Canon SD870, which is clearly not of professional photography level but it will have to do for now until I am able to upgrade.

Sunday, December 23, 2012

The Walking Dead Mid-Season 3 Finale Review

*If you have not watched Season 2 or Season 3, I suggest you don't read this blog post as it does contain spoilers. 

I finally caught up with all the episodes of The Walking Dead.

Seriously, this show is amazing.

The suspense is profound and the most recent episode (the mid-season finale) had me SHAKING. I was terrified for Glenn or Daryl dying, especially when I learned Glenn dies in the comics. However, I was somewhat reassured because the TV show doesn't really follow the comics. When the final scene of the episode appears, it shows Merle (however you spell that prick's name) and Daryl finally meeting after nearly a year; however, the two are in dire need of help because they are surrounded by the quixotic Woodbury citizens demanding their deaths. 

I just want to make it clear right now that if the writers decide to kill Daryl....

In all honesty though, I'd be EXTREMELY angry. Only Glenn and Daryl have managed to NOT annoy the hell out of me or caused any problems. Maggie and Glenn win the cutest couple ever award during a zombie apocalypse.

I have a love-hate relationship for Andrea. When Amy died, I felt nothing but pity for the poor woman, even during her suicidal swings. Unfortunately, when she decided to be a bitch to Dale and sleep with Shane, oh yeah, AND SHOOT DARYL, it was over. On the other hand, the Season 2 finale definitely displayed her bad-ass side and my respect for her resurfaced once again.

Oh wait, but then she decided to sleep with the slimiest, creepiest dude, "The Governor," the military wannabe, and disregard Michonne's warning pleas. Seriously, is she an IDIOT? Yes, yes she is. In addition, how DARE she pull out a gun on Michonne and save the Governor's life!! She needs to snap the hell out of it. I almost hit my computer screen due her aggravating demeanor.  Michonne should have killed that creeper the moment she had the chance but Andrea screwed it all up. After Lori, Andrea is the most annoying character ever. Why does this show make females look so pathetic? The only way she can redeem herself is by saving Daryl.

Speaking of Lori, her death was absolutely heart-wrenching. Even though I hated the slutty, dumb woman, nobody should ever have to die like that. Sacrificing her life for her newborn definitely exemplified a side to Lori that the audience never knew about...just kidding. Alright this might come across as shallow and inhumane but the show should have never introduced a newborn into the storyline. Even in the comics, Judith (the baby), died with Lori when she got shot. How are they going to possibly survive and run with a freaking baby?! She would cry every 30 seconds and attract a crapload of walkers. The only way they can potentially raise a child is at Woodbury, but I absolutely despise that place. Lori should have kept her legs closed the first time. I get that she thought her husband was dead, but after two weeks you sleep with his best friend?! Really?!

All in all, The Walking Dead has climbed up to my top 5 favorite TV shows of all time, which is an amazing feat considering there have only been 2 1/2 seasons. 


Friday, December 21, 2012

How I Met Your Mother: Season 8 Midseason Finale Reaction/Review

So the How I Met Your Mother season 8 midseason finale, "The Final Page," premiered Monday and it was LEGEN-WAIT FOR IT-DARY!!!!

Yeah, you knew that was coming. Haha.

Alright so the first half hour was a trivial storyline about Lily and Marshall reconciling with their ex-stalker, aka guest star Seth Green. I was a little bored and decided to surf the net and while I was looking up Gossip Girl spoilers (no, i've never really watched the show just a few episodes but felt compelled to look it up) and while scrolling through the comments, some idiot decided to write how it was such a good night because Barney and Robin are engaged. 

Okay I'm probably being a little bitter because that person was most likely an East Coaster of Midwestie or something and watched it first....but really?!?! I was PISSED.

However, I still did not expect Barney's super sweet proposal. When Robin was on the roof of the World Wide News building and she picked up the paper that read "The Robin," which is the final page (hence, the title) of Barney's infamous playbook. The show flashes to scenes of all the steps on the parchment that Barney did, such as admitting his love to her, convincing her that they would never be together and engaging her annoying "friend," Patrice in his plans. The most memorable step of the page was when Barney says that if Ted reveals to Robin the proposal, he knows his best man has let his past love go and given them his blessing.


Robin is initially angry at his antics but when Barney tells her to flip the page, she sees the last step: hope she says yes. When she looks down, she finds Barney kneeling with a ring on his palm. 

She said yes.

*nailed, i normally hate spelling errors but this one was too good to pass up

In all honesty, I did not cry in this episode. I teared up a little but I didn't cry because well, I expected the surprise. I know I definitely would have balled my eyes out if some as---meanie hadn't spoiled it. Sighs. 

This episode made up for the past lackluster episodes that all the fans have been complaining about. I personally didn't find them THAT boring but they definitely lacked the substance that was there in other seasons. 

I can't wait to watch the rest of the season and I just received word that there's going to be a season 9, which is probably going to anger many fans but not me. Patience is a virtue. Besides, why would you want to end the awesomeness of Barney Stinson and the rest of the characters? On the other hand, I can't wait to find out who the mother is although I have a very big theory on who it might be--but that's for another blog post ;).

Friday, December 14, 2012

The Walking Dead Season 1 Impression/Review

*This review does not contain spoilers and PLEASE do not comment spoilers below. I hate spoilers. So I will hate you. Just kidding, but seriously please do not write anything that happens in Season 2 or Season 3. 



So my ongoing quest to find another TV show to go through in another record time, (seven seasons of HIMYM in 1 month, anyone?) has been halted (for now) with a show that has garnered much attention from scrupulous critics and acquired a massive fan base. I mean, 12 million fans on Facebook three seasons in? Crazy. Well, maybe not considering the massive increase of Facebook users daily, but still.  

Anyways, the show I'm talking about is none other than The Walking Dead.

Yes, that zombie apocalypse show.

In all honesty, when I first heard of the show's premise, I was quite baffled and dumbfounded by the increasing popularity. I thought it was some juvenile, unrealistic show about psychotic humans shooting zombies. Technically, the last part is true but boy was I wrong about the first part.

I anticipated a lot from the Season 1 premiere: action, suspense, mind-boggling makeup, and good acting. All of which were present in the hour long premiere. 

I will admit that I was a little fearful of things popping out and scaring the living bajeezies out of me. In fact, I actually searched up whether the show was scary or not. However, the results assured me that the show was more suspenseful than anything but is not for those that are unable to take gore. Luckily, I'm not one of those faint-hearted people; on the other hand, I was terrified and ecstatic at the same time to start this wonderful series. 

The show centers around a sheriff (well, I guess ex-sheriff considering everyone's practically dead) named Rick and his struggle to leave the zombie-infested city in order to find his family. The episode is set in Atlanta, Georgia. Most of the "walkers" (the show never refers to the word "zombies") gather in herds near big cities but are most definitely not exclusive to them. 

I don't want to spoil the season for you but I'll just say there's one word that comes to my mind regarding this show: suspense.

Whoaaaa nelly, the writers sure know how to get the audience on their feet. The viewers are nearly captivated every single second for fear of "walkers" coming out to attack the characters, killing them or even worse, TURNING them into the ravenous species. The unprecedented turn of events and settings throughout the season was a great element of the show.

All in all, I would recommend this show to those that have liked Lost (or shows similar to that), I Am Legend, or any apocalyptic films/series or are solely interested in seeing a show full of action and suspense. However, if you can't take blood or gore, this show is probably not for you.

I'm three episodes into Season 2 and I definitely agree with the critiques of the season's slow pace, yet it still manages to maintain its element of surprise with plot twists and cliffhangers.

Monday, December 10, 2012

My Opinion on Rom-Coms (mostly on movies in general though)

Throughout the years, romantic comedy movies have gained a bad reputation among critics. The audience of this genre has slowly evolved from a rather diverse age group to idealistic teenage girls. However, rom-coms weren't always known to be cheesy and unrealistic, some notable romantic comedy movies are Some Like it Hot, Pretty Woman, What Women Want, and When Harry Met Sally.  

Alright, I'll admit that I only watched two out of the four I mentioned above. And yes, I indeed fall into the group of teenage girls that enjoy this genre. Although I will be the first to admit that "chick flicks" and "rom-coms" are definitely not the best for those looking for a hardcore plot with mind-blowing acting and revolutionizing effects, there are certain aspects to the corny lines and unrealistic storyline that make them a beneficial addition to the entertainment world.

I feel that the entertainment industry's standards of creating original, suspenseful, mind-boggling, dramatic, and action-packed films have speedily progressed with the advanced technology that continues to develop into who knows what. The ludicrous comebacks of certain movies into cinemas for audiences to watch in "3D" has grown steadily in the past few years and has provided an excuse for the cast and crew to profit even more(Titanic 3D anyone? really?).

The constant demand for inventiveness has pressured many writers to throw out original motion pictures that are either a prominent success or a huge failure--most have been the latter. Even worse, the lack of creativity in the entertainment industry has resulted in numerous remakes of old movies or film adaptations of classic books.

Anyways, I'm rambling again. My point is that sometimes the audience needs a little cheesiness and an impractical romance story to balance the heaviness that accompanies the suspense and drama that seem to appear in many movies today.

Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman

Saturday, December 8, 2012

Harry Potter Tag!


Read this off of Emily's Elusive Thought Bubble and because of my unwavering love for Harry Potter, I had to do it! 
Here are the questions in case anybody reading this wants to do it, be sure to comment your blog so I can read it :)
1.Favorite book ? 
2.Favorite movie?
3.Least favorite book?
4.Parts of the books/movies that made you cry ?
5.If you could be with any HP character who would it be?
6.Favorite character ?
7.What would your Patronus be?
8.If you could have the Resurrection Stone, Invisibility Cloak or the Elder Wand which one would you choose?
9What House would you be in?
10.IF you could meet any member of the cast who would it be? 
11.Have you played any of the video games?
12.IF you were on the Quiddich team which position would you play?
13. Were you happy with the ending?
14.How much does Harry Potter mean to you? 


1.Favorite book ? 
Hmm....Goblet of Fire, but Deathly Hallows is pretty close
2.Favorite movie?
Definitely Prisoner of Azkaban, but Order of Phoenix was great too
3.Least favorite book?
Most likely the first or second one
4.Parts of the books/movies that made you cry ?
The ending of both the books and movies made me cry. Like most Harry Potter fans, Dobby and Sirius's death were heart-wrenching. Snape's death in the last book also made me tear up. When Professor McGonagall called upon Hogwarts' soldiers to protect the school in the last movie, my eyes just went into ball out mode for the rest of the movie.
5.If you could be with any HP character who would it be?
Draco Malfoy. Despite his malicious ways, I know he's good on the inside...but the twins would make me laugh! Sighs. This one's tough but I guess I'll go with Oliver Wood :) haha
6.Favorite character ?
Honestly, I liked all the characters, J.K. Rowling added such dimension to them. I guess I like Ron in the books, but Neville in the movies. Actually, I really like Snape and Sirius in both too...this is way too difficult, I refuse to choose.
7.What would your Patronus be?
I've been told I look similar to a beaver, so perhaps a beaver? Maybe a fox or a cat. Or a lion. Or a PANDA. Yeah, I'm very decisive.
8.If you could have the Resurrection Stone, Invisibility Cloak or the Elder Wand which one would you choose?
Elder Wand, bringing alive ghosts scare the living s*** out of me and the Invisibility Cloak won't do me any good since I'm horrible at keeping quiet while moving around.
9. What House would you be in?
I can definitely see myself as a Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw (The former are known to be loyal and the latter are known to be clever). I'd definitely like to surround myself with those type of students. However, Pottermore did sort me into Gryffindor ;)
10.IF you could meet any member of the cast who would it be? 
Emma Watson because she seems like a lovely lady and Gary Oldman because well, he's Gary Oldman.
11.Have you played any of the video games?
Well, I did play a Harry Potter game on Gameboy Advanced before. Yes, I know, ancient. I also played this Harry Potter Spell app on my iPod.
12.IF you were on the Quiddich team which position would you play?
I had to ask my Harry Potter fanatic sister to refresh my memory about the different positions. I'd definitely choose to be Seeker because I'm horrible at defense, offensive, and goalie positions but I think I would do better while keeping my eye on the prize, such as the Snitch, even though I would be the deciding factor for my team's win or loss.
13. Were you happy with the ending?
I felt the endings in both movies and books were rushed. Although the numerous deaths were absolutely heartbreaking, I was happy with the way Rowling wrapped the series.
14.How much does Harry Potter mean to you? 
Harry Potter will always be what I consider my childhood. I still remember flying through the first four books in 3rd-4th grade and becoming obsessed with the series. I will forever be proud to have been raised in what I consider "The Harry Potter Era". 

Friday, December 7, 2012

Vampire Diaries 408 "We'll Always Have Bourbon Street"

Dear The Vampire Diaries writers,

You have redeemed yourself.

While watching, I still had some leftover bitterness from last week's episode after Caroline and Stefan realized that Damon and Elena had a sire bond. I personally never found anything wrong with this story line, but I was infuriated when Stefan and Caroline blamed Elena's sudden lust for Damon on the bond. Although I can definitely see their reasoning behind their judgment, I was enraged because I (along with all the other Delena fans) have been waiting for a ridiculously long time for Damon and Elena to FINALLY get together and when they do, BAM. Nope, sorry, that will never ever happen. Do you hear that? Oh yeah, that's all Delena fans' hearts shattering.

Anyways, the Hayley and Tyler story line still seemed boring as ever and has continued to fail to interest me. However, I can predict that I will definitely get into it when things get intense..because everything seems to get that way on this show.

While Damon and Stefan are looking for the ancient witch that holds knowledge on how to break a vampire sire bond, Caroline, Bonnie, and Elena engage in teenage partying antics. Things take a dramatic turn when Caroline is captured by this psychotic werewolf (I honestly forgot her name...seriously that's how much I really care about the hybrids right now). Luckily, Tyler and Elena find her and Tyler affirms his "alpha" position and yada yada..*yawns* 

I was really happy with the "flashback" element in this episode. I feel like that aspect has been gone for a while. I was excited to see Lexi back (gosh, I miss her character) and trying to keep "ripper" Stefan in check and in a way, keeping Damon in check too. 

Back to the important stuff, when Tyler told Elena that the sire bond doesn't affect feelings and then the witch lady says that vampires have sire bonds when the newbie vampire had strong human feelings for its turner....my face literally turned like this:
WOOOHOOOOOOO!!!!!!!! 

I think it's safe to say that all Delena fans were ecstatic about the turn of events. Unfortunately, I feel that the last scene of the episode was anti-climatic because we all know that Damon will definitely not be able to demand her to forget him. Although I might be proved wrong, remember the part where he made her forget that he told her he loves her?

Sighs.

By the way, where the heck was Klaus? He was nowhere in this episode *insert sad face*

What are your opinions of last night's episode?



Wednesday, December 5, 2012

My Opinion on the VS Fashion Show

Every time I pass by a Victoria's Secret store, my self-esteem is undeniably lowered. Those photo-shopped pictures of the ridiculously toned models with curves that seem to defy the laws of anatomy (if there were such a thing). The tanned, beautifully sculpted women are without a doubt jaw-dropping gorgeous; however, I never understood the obsession, especially from women, with them. 

The Victoria Secret's Fashion Show is an annual televised event that broadcasts Victoria Secret's "Angels," VS's models, dressed in lingerie that are embroidered with dazzling beads and sequins. To make things extra dramatic, the models are also decked out in a bizarre, eye-catching costume--usually in the shape of an angel wing.

Here's an example:


Alessandra Ambrosio from VS Fashion Show 2012
You can clearly see Alessandra Ambrosio is an absolutely stunning woman but the ludicrous cherry blossoms laying on her back in place of angel wings are in my opinion, tacky and laughable. 

The fashion show draws fans ranging from not only men--but from women as well. 

Why? 

I don't know. 

All I see is the company advertising nonsensical lingerie that no woman in their right mind would ever wear. The cheesy attire is cringe worthy and silly. The perfectly chiseled models can diminish even the most confident woman's pride in her physique. Let's face it, not all women were made the same way and the models disparage women's views on body image. Being 5' 8 and having high cheekbones and perfectly proportioned assets are not features that most women are born with. I was always amazed with girls' declarations of their favorite "angel." I mean, really? Unless they have actually overcome hardships and shown genuine philanthropic efforts, why must one idolize a model who shatters any woman's ego?

Not to castigate the effort put into these entertaining shows because there certainly is an artistic perspective to the event. Unfortunately, they are overshadowed by the coordinators' extravagant and unnecessary attempts to advertise overpriced, impractical undergarments on tall, skinny, women.

On the other hand, the creative and aesthetic elements utilized in the show prove to be a justifiable reason for viewers to watch models strut their voluptuous body, the reason why most men probably watch the show.

All in all, the VS Fashion Show is an overrated televised event that garners millions of views each year, an occurrence that will eternally baffle me.

Sunday, December 2, 2012

Homework Rant

Look, I understand the emphasis on creativity and artistry for students is essential to their success later in life. Heck, I just wrote a whole article for one of my classes explaining the significance of inventiveness that drives individuals forward in life. However, giving students unnecessary artwork and judging them on their ability to perform a play and express emotions is questionable at best, especially for a foreign language class.

I'd rather have an oral presentation of some sort than to make crappy stage props and recite a script consisting of talking animals.

In addition, the lack of specifications in the directions is ridiculous, which leaves students struggling to do their homework and relying on each other to draw out inaccurate answers. The persistent questions from my respective peers create more problems than they solve.

Not to undermine my teacher or anything because she is a very nice person, but I just want the teachers to give their students a little leeway here. I know I took an honors class but I expected extra, meaningful work instead of trivial, unhelpful projects/orations.

Marvel

I really wish I had the chance to have grown up and read Marvel Comics when it first was published. The comic characters have developed into such elaborate story lines that I am forced to read long summaries on Wikipedia. Although it is interesting to read the never-ending creativity brought forth by the writers, I just wish I had the opportunity to grow up reading these books and to live through the "Platinum," "Golden," "Silver," and "Bronze" ages.

Is that too much to ask for? 


willy wonka, you depress me.



#borninthe90sproblems

Saturday, December 1, 2012

My Jewelry Storage

So I know I'm a very materialistic person and jewelry is definitely one of my weaknesses. I'm not even an avid jewelry wearer, but I have an uncontrollable urge to buy accessories that I think are cute--although I'd never wear it.

I decided to share my jewelry storage and possibly give you ideas.

This revolving bird cage for earrings is from Urban Outfitters.
 This jewelry tree is from Michael's. It's great for storing bracelets, necklaces, rings, etc.

  


Do any of you have any jewelry storage suggestions? Comment below :)

Friday, November 30, 2012

Vampire Diaries 407 "My Brother's Keeper" RANT

Okay, time to discuss the most recent episode of The Vampire Diaries.

There's only one word that described my mood at the end of the episode: outraged.


DEAR VD WRITERS, WHAT IS WRONG WITH ALL OF YOU!?

Don't you guys understand that all Delena fans have been waiting, hoping, and praying that Damon and Elena would get together? There has not been one moment where they truly have been together until now. As the episode progressed and Delena's relationship blossomed, I, along with a million of other Delena fans (via Twitter) were ecstatic for Elena's change of heart to dump the pathetic, clingy ripper for the beautifully sculpted, bad-ass Damon. 

Oh wait, but no.


The writers decided to rip the hearts of all Delena fans and throw them out the window when Caroline's revelation of Damon and Elena's sire bond was revealed, explaining Elena's sudden lust for Damon.


Or, perhaps, she truly is in love with Damon.


No, that idea is completely outrageous to the writers, who would never incorporate Elena and Damon's soul mate status into the show, despite the huge Delena fan base. I mean, for goodness sake, Elena even said herself that things would probably be different if she had met Damon first. Well, guess what, he did meet her first! 


However, I won't lose hope and I believe that Delena will prevail.


On a side note, I'm very happy with the progressive Klaroline relationship.

*swoon* 



Breaking Dawn--Part 2 Review

            It’s that time of year again. No, not when Christmas lights are hung or people are full of excitement for the impending holidays. Declarations from passionate fan girls claiming they are“Team Edward” or “Team Jacob” commences once again as “Breaking Dawn—Part 2” is released.
Not being a huge fan of the Twilight movie franchise, I had low expectations walking into the theater to watch a screening of “Breaking Dawn—Part 2.” I anticipated cheesy lines and mediocre acting, both of which were present in the previous four movies. However, I was left mildly impressed with the filming, effects, and plot of this film.
Directed by Bill Condon, “Breaking Dawn—Part 2” will be the last of the “Twilight” movies and has garnered much attention in the media. A pop culture, the series has fans ranging from teenage girls to “Twi-Moms.”
 In the beginning of the film, Bella and Edward’s constant professions of love for each other did not dispel my poor expectations. Kristen Stewart, who played Bella, showcased her egregious acting skills with emotionless facial expressions while delivering comedic or sentimental lines. The hunky actor of Jacob Black, Taylor Lautner, proved he was just that—attractive but with pitiable acting skills that were cringe worthy. The whole cast, besides the actors that played the Volturi, the ruthless, intimidating vampires, could have sharpened their acting chops. Forcing their scripted dialogue without a wide range of emotion, the actors did not convince the audience of their characters’ genuineness or acquire sympathy for the outcome of their future.
Regardless of the cast’s deplorable performances, “Breaking Dawn—Part 2” triumphs the series’ other movies. The creative opening credits, featuring dark, bloody red transforming to a delicate growth of snow, were artfully mastered. The film never became dull and had a fine balance of action and romance to satisfy the quixotic women that desire the perfect relationship that Bella and Edward exemplified along with the boyfriends or husbands of those romantics. Unfortunately, Bella and Edward’s CGI baby distracted the audience with its unnatural, morphed features. On the other hand, the animation of the werewolves was astonishingly realistic and had the potential to scare younger children. The movie was tastefully composed with the dramatic sequence of scenes and an unanticipated twist differing from the novel.
Picking up where the last movie ended, Bella’s transition to a vampire was concise as she is launched into motherhood with her newborn daughter, Renesmee. The storyline intensifies as the vampires prepare for the imminent meeting with the Volturi. The most praiseworthy moment of the movie was the well-executed conclusion that had the audience reminiscing about the last four years. As the ending credits rolled, sadness overcame the audience as soft sobs were heard for the finale of such a popular franchise.
Unlike the past movies, “Breaking Dawn—Part 2” filtered the dreary moments to produce a captivating motion picture. Although the film exhibited Bella and Edward’s eternal love for each other, it also illustrated Bella’s gradual transition from an awkward teenage girl to a mature, brave mother. In spite of the lackluster acting, “Breaking Dawn—Part 2” exceeded my expectations. Nevertheless, the film is still incomparable to critically acclaimed movies, such as “Casablanca” but conquers the other four movies of this overrated series. Catering to females in desperate need of an idealistic love story, Stephenie Meyer’s book, “Breaking Dawn,” was brought to life for all audiences with Bill Condon’s interpretation of the novel. Condon’s directing cunningly defeats the past directors’ attempts to convert the script into a crafty, pleasurable film.