The gift of clear skin with Acne.org's AHA+

I've been using this product for a little over a month now (as you can see I like to date my products with a sharpie) and my skin texture and clarity has improved. Not, "I think maybe this serum/toner/cream/etc is working?" but, "Whoa, why is this post-acne red spot so light today??".

This isn't my first time using Acne.org products so I really shouldn't be so surprised. In my late high school - early college years I used their BP 2.5% Treatment for my generally mild acne and it worked very well. I stopped when I kind of grew out of the teenage zit phase. Nowadays I still get pimples but they're hormonal ones mostly located on my chin. So while I still use BP (Clean&Clear Persa-Gel 10 cause it's cheaper and I don't need as much as I used to) I really needed something to fade away post pimple redness and marks. 

For a little over $20 (depending on shipping costs, product retails online only for $16.11 for 6 oz.) I have almost a year's worth (low balling the length of time) of a nighttime moisturizer that for the past month, has been clearing away my redness, improved the look of my nose because my blackheads are no where near as visible, evening out my skin tone, and making my skin feel so crazy soft. My red post zit marks usually take MONTHS if not years to slowly fade on their own. So seeing these chin post-zit marks lighten so significantly in a month kind of blew my mind. 

I really like the texture of the lotion and how easily it spreads. My first time using it, I could definitely feel the sting of the AHA+, it's 10% glycolic acid after all. My face has since gotten used to it but if I've picked on a particular area..well it's gonna sting there. So obviously don't apply it over broken skin, especially if you popped a zit or peeled off a scab! Since using this I've also taken to use my daily spf moisturizer with more care and diligence. It can increase sun sensitivity since you know...it being an acid and exfoliating your skin and all.  

One of the best gifts I've given myself this year; my clearer skin <3!

Lumene Vitamin C+ Illuminating Anti-Age BB Cream (& Burt's Bees Grapefruit Lipbalm)

I was supposed to be in CVS to repurchase a skincare staple (Olay Complete SPF 30 Sensitive; sometimes in the winter I go for the spf 15 since the lotion is lighter) but I ended up buying a BB cream and lip balm instead. Yea, I don't know either. 

The lipbalm smells SO GOOD. So so so good! Like a real grapefruit! It's magical, it really is. I've gone through a few tubes of the Burt's Bees Replenishing Lipbalm with Pomegranate Oil so I decided to switch things up. I was also hoping the grapefruit would also be lightly tinted like the pomegranate one but unfortunately that's not the case as you can tell. 

I've got nothing bad to say about Burt's Bees lip balms and I always have a tube somewhere. Retails for $2.99 which is great (the cheapo in me cringes though) since I feel the quality and packaging is on par or even better than higher end/luxury lip balm. Moisturizes well, travels great, not prone to melting at the slightest hint of heat and feels good on the lips.  

So*knockonwood* I'm getting my skin under control and since the only base product I have is Make Up For Ever's Mat Velvet + Foundation (in 30) I wanted something for everyday that wasn't so heavy duty. And my foundation is about 2 years old now. Yea, maybe it's a little gross but I don't share my makeup and I wear full coverage so rarely...I'm not about to throw this thing out if it's still performing just fine.

My skin still isn't anywhere near perfect but all things considered it's better enough that I want to consider lighter wear makeup. Some days I just want to put something on for a daytime date with the bf but I don't want to look too heavily made up. And it would be great if I could find something now that's reliable for when I start my first real job (in August...lol). 

I got the BB cream in light after comparing the two color dots on the box in CVS against my face. From the back of the box you can see that there's a recommended 'age of use' at the bottom. Seeing as how I'm in the earlier years of my 20s I guess this product isn't really marketed towards consumers my age but hey that's not going to stop anyone from trying something. I've been eyeing a few other US made BB creams for a while now but I always decided against buying them because they always include denatured alcohol. No thanks, my skin just doesn't like that stuff all up on my face for a good 10+ hrs a day. 

So when I saw that Lumene had a BB cream without the alcohol I was pretty excited. Except for the price. $15.79 is such a weird price right? The other brands were lower than $15 but I said screw it and so, I bought it. The Lumene line of products has been on US shelves for a few years now but I've never tried anything from the brand. Not because I don't think their products are good, I just never really had a reason to try anything until I saw their BB cream display. 

It's not full coverage and maybe medium coverage if you build it up (using thin layers) so it's good for days where you just want to tone down unevenness and not look too made up. The last time I had an Asian BB Cream was in high school, about 5 years ago and it was the BRTC Water Jasmine BB Cream. I didn't like it. Too grey and PINK. It was awful and just didn't perform well. However, that was just my experience and it seems that many others have found it to be suitable for their needs. And maybe I got one from a bad batch, who knows. Seeing how it was so long ago and my experience wasn't great I can't compare this to Asian BB Creams. 

The consistency is slightly thicker than lotion and I really like how it feels on my face. Even though I love MUFE's Mat Velvet sometimes I can just feel it. I also really like the citrus fragrance which dissipates a little bit after you smooth it out on your face. As you can see from the blended portion on my hand, there's shimmer (silica, on the ingredients list). On my face it wasn't as disco ball and I actually didn't even realize it until I went back to look at this picture of my hand for this post. So it's subtle and I like how my face looked...alive and bright while wearing this. I personally think it did a great job of lessening the redness around my nostrils and even provided suitable coverage of my red post-zit marks. 

As far as color selection, Lumene stays true to BB creams by providing a very limited selection of just two shades. Initially, when I had it on my face I thought the color matching was fine but looking at that swatch on my hand made me wonder if it was maybe too pink. And if you're any paler than shade 01 Light or darker than 02 medium you're outta luck. Having worn it about three times now I can now say that this most definitely leans pink toned. When I wore it this morning and looked into the mirror I could see just how much the pink color contrasted with my YELLOW neck. Maybe 02 medium is the right tone?...but the shade would be too dark. Oh well, close but no cigar. Return!

Diva Cup: Update #2

So glad I'm using the DivaCup! I've been fiddling around and trying to get used to it the past few days to prepare for this upcoming monthly cycle. In using the DivaCup I've been forced to become quite intimate with my own body. For instance, after I insert the cup I like to make sure it's completely open and around the cervix so of course that requires you to be very hands in you know.

I decided to learn to get used to it a few days prior to my period. First day on Friday I wore it for a full day and had no issues. On Saturday I got lazy and I didn't use it (still no period). Then Sunday came and I used it. Today I woke up (put it in last night) with it and decided not to removed until around lunch time. And what do you know, the cup was nearly halfway full after keeping it in for a full night into lunchtime today. I knew for sure that my period would start last night so I'm breathing a sigh of relief that I put the DivaCup in. There was no leaking onto my underwear and overall it was quite comfortable (ie, occasionally will forget I have it in). I'm very pleased; the learning curve (which really isn't that big of a deal) was well worth it.

Yes, it is a little bit messy, but the beauty of the cup is that you don't have to empty it at work. Empty once in the morning at home and then again at night. Simple; no fuss no muss. I usually like using flushable wipes during my period anyway so I think that could help with the messiness. You could bring a pack to work and keep them in a drawer somewhere discreet (or not, your desk, no one should be snooping around) to use. I like getting the Kirkland Costco brand with 10 packs of 60.

As for the stem, I cut it down almost completely. I think the makers of the DivaCup should maybe update both their models to have stems that are rounded  and closed instead of cut open like a tube. This way, if it 'pokes' it wouldn't be as irritable (it doesn't hurt when it pokes) and maybe fewer women would need to trim the stem. Just a thought.

Project Closet - The First Night of Digitizing My Wardrobe

Yesterday night I became obsessed with the idea of digitally cataloging my wardrobe. This idea appealed to me for a multitude of reasons:

• Identifying my personal trends and style (Seeing styles and trends emerge.)
• Preventing duplicate purchases (You already have three black ruffle skirts!)
• Encouraging thoughtful purchases (Do I really need this item? Am I missing an essential item?)
• Integration of a possible new purchase with your wardrobe (Can they work with the things you have?)
• Become more minimalist and have clothes that have more multi-functional.
• Indulging in my pursuit of being hyper-organized (I enjoy it. Yes I'm weird.)

One goal I have with this project is to automate my work/professional outfits for when I start my offer in August. I know a lot of people say they need to dress based on their moods but I'd rather not. I much prefer saving that daily bit of brain function on other things. Plus side is I get to plan ahead to account for weather AND as my BF points out, you still have the flexibility to dress based on your mood if you want to.

Anyway, after doing some intense Googling and research last night I found a few apps for the SG3 but I decided to forgo an app and just take pictures myself (using my phone camera so the quality isn't fantastic but still quite good) and uploading it to a folder in DropBox titled "Closet". Now, the one app I probably would have downloaded and used...isn't available for Android phones! Boo! Hiss! If Stylebook ever makes it available on Droid phones I'll download and use it but until then I'll be relying on my own method. 

I didn't expect to actually start on this little big project tonight. Usually I let ideas mull a bit longer before I take action but this probably means I'm actually excited about this project. So I set up my photo shooting area with my white bed sheet and moved the floor lamp towards the mattress for light. Laid the clothes (with their hangers) on the bed and started playing around with my phone's camera. Then I decided some of my clothes could look better hung up so I cleaned the top of my closet door (yea I'm nitpicky like that) and then hung a white bed sheet over it. 

The picture is blurry for a reason, just to give you an idea of what my setup was like. 

I ended up on taking shots of 25 items from my closet. And suddenly I realized I actually started taking pictures last night with 3 pairs of my heels. I guess in my mind, I didn't really 'start' because the shoe pictures are done well enough (not against a plain/white colored background) and so I'll probably re-take them. 

So my Closet folder is set up as follows:

• Closet
• Bottoms
• Skirts
• Pants
• Shoes
• Store Dressing Room
• Tops
• Tops - Cardigans
• Tops - Shells
• Tops - Tanks
• Tops - Sweaters
• Bags 
• Dresses

As I continue to add to my digital wardrobe I may remove, add, or consolidate folders but for now that's what I have. 

I'm already seeing benefits to this digital wardrobe thing.

Redundancies

Yea...so I clearly have a strong inclination to buy short black frilly skirts. It's probably to indulge my HS emo/goth sides while still being girly. Clearly I'm drawn to the Goth Lolita style. These skirts really are ME. But that also means I'm not allowed to buy anymore pieces like this...3 is more than enough and I might even get rid of the skirt on the far right. 

Unworn Pieces

I gotta face it. White tank tops just aren't my thing. Either I need to learn to work these into my wardrobe more (will have to wait until spring/summer) or I need to let go and donate these babies. Alternatively I was also thinking of dyeing the tank on the left into a color I'm more likely to wear. So either way I need to re-use, re-cycle, or re-give these tanks.

Quality Control

See this Express tank top? The strap on the right is longer than the other one! I didn't even notice when I was arranging the tank on my bed. At first I thought I had arranged it wrong but upon closer inspection I could see that the seams for both sides were unequally and also placed further along compared to each side. No wonder I always felt so lopsided wearing this tank. Maybe when I get decent at sewing I'll try and fix it myself.

~

So even though I have 25 items down I still have a loong way to go before I'm completely finished with my project (not to mention that I may even go back and retake pictures for a few of the items). For a few of the items I think I'll need to combine two images to show: a. front and back or b. actually worn on my body. Afterwards I'll continue maintenance of my digital wardrobe in addition to taking pictures of me in outfits that I like and feel comfortable in. I want to give priority and focus towards work outfits but it may not turn out that way since I don't have many professional pieces...(oh the woes of being short). That way, I can have a library of looks that I can wear to work and plan for in my closet (set aside clothes at the beginning of the week into outfits) so I have one less thing to deal with in the morning. 

So excited! Am I crazy or what? =]

Spaworld Grasshopper

Spontaneity is the spice of life. Last Friday while texting my friend J she asked if I wanted to go to Spaworld. So despite being broke I said (texted), "Fuck it! I'm going to Spaworld!" And that was that. (Well not really cause I kept texting her with questions about what to bring (what a Virgo?) and how to prepare myself...she is quite the Spaworld sensei and said to just be patient lol.)

So after work we went to Spaworld together and I must say, the whole naked thing is really overblown. If you don't know Spaworld is a korean style spa/bathhouse. So there's a men's and women's area and in those segregated areas you'll see lotsa naked bodies. It's really no different than if you were at a gym. 

The poultice rooms were really fun and I found the experience overall worth it. Next time though, I'd wait for some kind of groupon instead. I'm not Spaworld master like J...she takes it to the next level. I'm actually really glad I went with my friend for the first time, otherwise I don't think I would have enjoyed myself quite as much. Also, I really have to commend them on their lockers..very very safe. I left my phone in there almost the entire time. It was great being able to lose track of time, very freeing in this day and age. 

We had two meals (food not included in admission price) there: one around 7 I think and another we finished right after they closed around midnight. There's a sit down restaurant that closes at midnight and a snack bar that closes at 2am. Both meals were at the sit down restaurant. 

1st meal: Sundubu & Kimbap (no picture of the kimbap):

2nd meal: Sundubu & Galbi

As you can tell, we really like the Sundubu. And in fact, I've spent the last couple of days daydreaming about it at work. Like my friend J says, it really is perfect winter comfort food.

In between those two meals my J also got the Mango Bubble Tea Smoothie and their Redbean Bingsoo from the snack bar. No pictures but they were quite yummy. And being so generous she shared with me ^_^. Being broke isn't so bad when you have such generous friends...(food makes me, and most people, feel very well loved and cared for). 

They also have a gym there (on the second floor). A pretty nice big one too. Get on the first machines you see and press start. Just do it. Make sure you're at peace with looking ridiculous. 

Bring whatever sort of entertainment you want! They have a big sleeping/sitting area with outlets and TVs.

I had a good time and I'm actually kind of looking forward to the next time I can go again with J and my boyfriend (I'm sure these will be separate occasions, lol). 

Thanksgiving Weekend Update

Family decided not to do a turkey this year but look what my aunt broke out:

 

As you can see she already decimated a good portion of the chocolates before bringing this out after lunch (before dinner). These were cute and I'm sure they would make a great gift (my aunt certainly appreciated it).

After spending the day with relatives/family I left to go see the BF at around 11pm. He had wanted to go to H&M at midnight. He googled around to double check times and location and we saw a video from last year's Black Friday opening and it was madness. When we got to the mall we had to circle around for what seemed like forever to find a spot in the garage. His handicap pass was not an advantage at all, all the spots were taken! Finally when we got inside (around 1am) he though maybe the crowd at H&M had died down a bit but nope! There were lines, barricades and security patrolling the entrance of the store! We left around 3am completely exhausted (he practically had to drag me since I was falling asleep standing up, not to mention I fell asleep in the Macy's dressing room while he trying on stuff). By then the garage started to empty and you could see tons of parking spaces. I didn't buy anything (didn't plan to, Black Friday can be such a ripoff) but he did manage to score a sharp looking coat for a very reasonable price. Maybe next year I'll be better prepared and be able to take a nap before going. 

Flipping through ads/coupons/etc...is it just me or did Chuck lose some weight? A skinny rat is so wrong, they should be fat and plump! He's so deprived of fat that his hair is turning white! 

Diva Cup: Updates

11.20.12 - Evening

Tried on the cup during my shower. Good thing you don't have to be on your period to wear this (unlike a tampon), then you can practice how to insert and take it out. My first attempt at insertion failed but after I squatted a bit more in the shower it was fine. I didn't have any issues with the cup not sealing. The cup felt quite comfortable but the stem kept poking at me. I didn't think it would be a big deal but as I was trying to fall asleep it kept bothering me so I decided to just take it out. 

Ouch. It was a bit of a struggle to get it out. More than I had anticipated since inserting the cup was pretty much as hassle free as you can get. I'm definitely going to need to figure out how to break the seal. Trying to pull out the cup while it's still sealed can be a bit painful. Also the cup itself may be a bit too big. If after I cut/trim the stem and learn how to break seal and I'm still experiencing discomfort with removal of the cup...I'll have to try a different brand. Ladycup maybe, it's the smallest cup on the market apparently. 

Diva Cup: First Impressions

Placed an order for a DivaCup through Amazon (pre-chid birth/under 30 version) for $23.05 on Sunday 11/18 and today it was delivered! 

I also ordered eyelid tape, Eye Charm Double Eyelid Tape 50 count ($4.20) to mostly get the Free Super Saver Shipping but also trying to even out my lopsided eyes, which have been bothering me more and more lately (the right is single and the left is a not insignificant double lid). Total amount = $27.25

So back to the cup.

I first heard about this when I was a freshman in college. Back then, it wasn't readily available and the cost was prohibitive for me. Cost and convenience of purchase were really the only things holding me back (now it's available so cheap on Amazon) I was otherwise convinced that I would convert from tampons/pads to the cup one day. Environmentally friendly (ew, think about all the tampons/pads a woman uses and throws out in her life time...sitting in some landfill!), safe (can't get TSS), convenient (holds much more than even the biggest tampon), cost-effective (thinking about how much I'll save over the next few years..yes!), and of course comfort. 

Ok, so I've already drunk the kool-aid and I'm totally biased and convinced that it'll be unicorn tears and baby saliva. Well, just to remind you, I still haven't tried it on...yet! I'm on the last day (or two days) or my period and I'll try it as soon as possible and report back. 

The kit includes a small floral pouch to keep your cup in while not in use and a "Diva" pin. And an instructional pamphlet I still need to read through xD.  

After holding the cup in my hands I noted two things: it's a bit dusty (so I'll give it a rinse in cool soapy water) and the feel on the outside of the cup is very smooth. The DivaCup is made from medical grade silicone, stuff that gets used to make heart valves and such. That's why it won't cause TSS. Most seem to be able to keep it on for past 12 hours because it holds so much (and if you can't get TSS, then why bother emptying?) The stem looks kind of  long and the cup itself is a bit more rigid/stiff than I had expected. I guess I thought it would be super thin and soft but then it probably wouldn't work. And you can even measure your blood flow! First reaction to that was an amused smile but you never know...there could be women who need to monitor blood flow for their health. 

If you're wondering what prompted my memory of the DivaCup it was two things. I had been on my first BCP since January and it completely dried up my period...and made it weird in other ways. So I switched this month and wow..I soaked through my sheets. And I realized I didn't want to back to dealing with tampons...so naturally I though back to getting a menstrual cup. 

=] 

On my office desk...

1. Nivea Creme Tin

I don't know why but if I'm not working I'm usually not using this stuff. Don't get me wrong I really like it and I think it works well but for one reason or another I just prefer using it at work. At .99 cents this is really not a bad deal and I love the cute tin with the adorable kids! I think there are different designs Nivea puts out occasionally too. The scent can be kind of strong and once I had put it on at this place I was temping at, a co-worker walked into my cube (that I shared with another) and asked if someone just put on baby powder sunscreen. Initially the scent did bother me a little but it has grown on me and now I enjoy it. And then a few weeks later the same co-worker walked in and asked what smelled so good. So maybe it takes a few exposures, lol. As you can see the texture is a thick cream so if left somewhere a bit warm it'll soften up. I really like using this stuff on my cuticles and general fingertip area. It may be a bit greasy depending on your preferences but I actually like that I can sit back and give myself a mini massage working the product in. 

I know some people may be turned off by the fact that it contains mineral oil (oops forgot to take a pic of the backside with the ingredients listed) but it's not an issue for me. I also don't buy into the mineral oil automatically equaling bad/unsafe/clogging. Skin mileage varies people. I will say that I only use this on my hands. Skin mileage also varies depending on where it is applied. 

As you can see I'm running low/out. Time to repurchase and then re-purpose this tin! =]

 2. Nivea Express Hydration Daily Lotion

I was running low on my usual lotion that I use to hydrate my skin after washing my hands and I was able to find this little sample in a zippered pocked in my purse. I'm not sure how to describe the scent on this one except that it's less powdery than the Nivea Creme and more floral. It really is kind of like a much lighter version of the Nivea Creme. I actually don't like this and I wouldn't buy the full sized product. For one, it contains denatured alcohol. Sorry but my hands are already parched after washing them why would I risk further drying them out? Now earlier I said skin mileage varies and for me, having this ingredient so far up the list is a no. It says the lotion softens and absorbs quickly and I'm betting that's what the alcohol does. Still, I'm just not impressed with this product, especially since it's retailing for about $6-8 dollars depending on the stores. 

I am willing to use this at work and only because I don't want to be wasteful. But as soon as it's done I'll happily recycle the bottle. 

 3. Vaseline Intense Moisture Conditioning

First off, let me say that lotion came with the purchase of two pump bottles of Vaseline lotion (forget which variety, but basically I like 'em all) at Costco. It seems to retail (not sure) for around $3 at most drugstores. This particular variation of the Vaseline lotion line seems to moisturize very well. But, if your skin is prone to drying out, as in you need something to seal it off, this won't cut it. I like the the Intensive Rescue Repairing Moisture and/or their Coco Butter lotion for better all in one use and for the winter. Also if your skin is really super dry they have a clinical version which I sampled before and was also really good. Bottom line, I like the Vaseline lotion line because they have high quality products at an affordable price point (and in different sized bottles) for a variety of skincare needs. No I don't work for them but hey Vaseline you can send me some free stuff any time!

Anyway, back to the topic at hand. I pretty much always keep a Vaseline lotion of some sort at my desk. I top off with Nivea Creme on drier hand days and/or on days where there's a ton of paperwork and filing to be done. 

4. Oil Blotters

Ok, technically, I keep these in my cosmetics pouch (I keep two, and no that's not excessive and day I'll show you why!) and not on my desk. But wow, do you see that? Most days I use one after lunch to blot off excess oil. I try to avoid this as much as possible by taking care of my face and trying not to over dry my skin (which I think is much worse than oily skin). Sometimes though, it's unavoidable as my skin looks like it's glistening and then I have a meeting to go to at 2 where it would be preferably if my shiny forehead was not the beacon of attention. 

It's so cool to see a the blue square just turn completely transparent. By the way, the material is not made out of paper and it soaks up soo much more than traditional oil blotter paper sheets. I get these as a 'free gift' from buying my Nexcare acne patch stickers (awesome shit! deserves a post on it's own but need to wait for a killer whitehead to do so) from a seller based in Hong Kong. So I don't how much it costs and I even threw away the first pack! Talk about being wasteful. Anyway, I really appreciate these little gifts now and hopefully I won't run out soon. 

~

I keep very little on my desk as you can see. The three items above I usually just keep and leave on my desk. While the last item and other cosmetic items I keep in my pouch/purse and take home with me. 

Things Go Down and Up

Up: Got a job offer from a great company in a division with a great program in the position I wanted.
Down: Offer/program does not start until August.

Up: I am getting used to exercising daily and now I don't feel like my day is complete with my trusty Brad Fit (aka VirtuaGym app) leading me through some exercises
Down: Last night the video function on my Samsung G3 stopped working. Wouldn't play any videos on YouTube, DailyYoga, etc. Had to reset the phone this morning cause it drove me crazy. The up is that the video now works and  at least my data was all backed up.

Super happy and excited about my job offer. And the down is really an up because now I can live it the fuck up!!! Yesssss! All things considered my day has been pretty fucking awesome. The title of the post is exactly right. Things can go wrong but there is always an upside! =]

Unfortunately I have no pictures to share today! Which is a shame because on the way back to the parking garage after my interview this morning (no the offer isn't from this company) I saw a little bird just sitting on the sidewalk near some bushes. I think the poor thing was hurt because I could almost touch it and it just blinked at me. =[ I feel kind of bad for not coming back to scoop him up and take him to a vet. I actually REALLY regret that now.

Lots of things to share later this week when I have more time. Because of my interview and the phone interview I had to stay later at work (voluntarily, I wasn't corned or forced into it) to make up hours. So I came home late and now I'm pretty tired. Can't wait, lots of other posts in the works!

Two skincare staples and an Antique Singer

Just two things I currently can't live or do without:

Kose Softymo Deep Cleansing Oil and HadaLabo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion (there are many name variants, sticking to the simplest one) for $15.00 and $17.32 respectively from Amazon with "Free Super Saver Shipping". I placed an order on Friday night 11/10 and it was delivered today on 11/12. Only two days, awesome~! Great basic items to any skincare routine and they last a long while too. I'm probably overly generous with the lotion and it still lasts me a good 4 months. The cleansing oil could probably last between 3-6 months depending on whether you wear a lot of makeup and if you use it both day and night. I would say I'm a light user (but I also apply this generously) so it can last me about 5 months. 

Sometimes when I'm sick of putting things on my face or just plain run out of moisturizer I just use the HadaLabo Lotion on my face. Even though it's just purely for moisture enhancement (think moisturizing toner) and you're advised to put something that will 'seal' like a cream or actual lotion to finish up your routine. I don't do the 'just lotion/toner only' thing often; only in times of dire need to give my skin a break or my wallet a reprieve. Simple, straightforward, and effective with no unnecessary bells and whistles just to make some 'lable claim'. I definitely approve. 

The oil cleanser is great. Massage it in. Do the eyes last, then rinse off with warm water. Perfect! Sometimes I double cleanse afterwards with a foaming cleanser. Sometimes I don't. 

I wish products like these existed on drugstore shelves here in the US. Although, would I really prefer driving to a drugstore vs having it conveniently delivered in two days? Nah.

~~~

Yea, how amazing is that? It's so old and dusty too. Not sure about the exact age, I tried to figure out what model/make/moreinfoingeneral at this link from Singer but no dice? I don't think it's fake but even so, a pretty neat piece of craftsmanship isn't it? I've actually known about this table for about 5 years now (sits in the kitchen with tons of crap on top of it) but I've always just kept it in the back of my mind, saying, "one day..." And really, one day what? When I first opened up the table a few years ago, I tried to get it to work and even pulled it out to set the machine upright but I couldn't figure out how to get it to turn on. I also tried threading it, but again, failed. So I guess it'll still have to wait until someday. 

Printed out a 40% off coupon from Michael's, I may buy a seam ripper from Michael's but only if it's cheaper than the Amazon listed priced for this baby. Baby steps to this whole sewing/tailoring thing. 

~~~

Two interviews tomorrow, one on campus (full time for next year) and one phone interview (just for a contract position but temping at this company would still be really great if the match is good). =]

Moved from the 20 minute novice workout on the VirtuaGym app to the beginner's 30 minute workout. Hopefully I'm not imagining it but I feel slightly more taut in my back and torso. I don't look skinnier but I feel a tiny bit of it. It seems either I'm more aware of my body now or my muscles are tightening up because my posture seems to be a lot better too. Win win all around I say. 

And lastly what I had for lunch today, below. Just imagine it in a glasswear bowl and multiple the amount by 1.5 or double it. I'll probably be eating this again for lunch tomorrow since someone (dad) decided to cook up monster sized portions. I probably need to add cooking to the list. Someone (moi) in this family has to start cooking healthier!

Weekend Update 11/9 - 11/11

Went to bed super late on Friday night because I was busy playing around with the blog. Since I lost track of time I ended up doing my VirtuaGym workout late and after I finished showering  and got into bed it was 1:45am already. Needless to say I was tired from the week and so even though I woke up at 7am in the morning out of habit I went back to sleep and woke up at 11am. 

And look! My comb completely snapped when I tried to detangle my hair before showering. Oh well, I can't complain that it's too bulky to take with me when I travel now, haha. 

Behold the strength of my hair!

Saturday

Made a stop at 5Below when I left the house on Saturday. Yoga mats ($5 each - one for me one for BF), Baby powder ($1), dry shampoo ($3), and the cutest Hello Kitty travel toothbrush kit ($4 or $5 I believe. I showed restraint; didn't buy it).

After leaving 5Below I wandered into Ulta (once a beauty addict, always a beauty addict) to just have a look see. As always, beauty stores sucker me in, resulting in spending an inordinate amount of time trying to convince myself to NOT fork over my money for something I could mostly definitely live without. Luckily I have pretty good willpower so I got to enjoy my window shopping/me time. Their clearance section looks kind of amazing right? Too bad you'll have to really dig through everything to find a treasure. Most things that looked halfway decent weren't marked down low enough, saw some polishes marked down to $7.50 from $8.00. Come on now, how is that even considered clearance? Obviously I passed. 

Sunday

After a much needed binge at Honeypig (for some bulgogi and spicy pork belly )we stopped by Shilla Bakery to sample their carby goodness. The "Glasses Bread" was yummy, sweet and savory, though I would have preferred more savory/cheesy goodness than the sweet shu cream inside. Made the BF 'wear' the 'glasses'. Did not look happy but will save the picture to randomly stare and laugh at him when I'm bored. xD

I think I'm gonna try this out...

I've realized I need to keep myself engaged and excited but my fears have been holding me back from just even trying new and exciting. Experiences that could sharpen me intellectually, enrich myself, and diversify my life portfolio.

So here is my list of things that I just need to stop thinking about and making excuses and just DO, in whatever capacity:

The List

• Writing Specifically, having a blog where I can express myself freely and have the flexibility to write about whatever I want. I wouldn't be opposed to discovering a niche but if that doesn't happen I'll still be very satisfied and happy to be able to go back and read, reflect, and reminisce when I'm old and wrinkly! A bonus benefit is sharpening my writing skills, as they've become quite dull over the past few years. As it so happens I've been taking care to edit this post and I can already see some improvements! Hopefully I'll keep this up!
• Fitness Luckily, due to genetics I'm fortunate to be slim shaped. But I recently saw a picture of myself and it was like someone finally pushed me through the fog and let me see myself in the bright cleansing light of day. It was clear what roughly 5 years of physical inactivity did to me. I'll spare you the details but let's just say looking at the picture was like a cold slap to the face. But why should I be so surprised and why have I been in denial for so long? My periods of physical activity were few and far between; additionally, they were never sustained beyond 1 month each time. The blame and fault lies with my (lack of) discipline and myself. So to quote Beyonce, "A little sweat ain't never hurt nobody." 
• Sewing/Tailoring Because our bodies are unique! Why not celebrate it? And what better way to take control of how I feel about how I look than creating things specifically for me? I'm sure we all know by now that ready-to-wear (ie, factory made) clothing is a fairly new concept, and while mass made clothing has it's benefits I just feel so sick of shopping in a mall and not finding things to wear and/or not being able to do anything about it. So it can't hurt to at least try and learn how to do some basic sewing, hemming, and mending. I think I'll start by purchasing a seam ripper. 

Hopefully, trying new things without agonizing over small things will become more natural. In the meantime, I guess I'll just keep beanplating on this blog. It's a step in the right direction and right now that's the best solution for me. 

Seriously, do you eat yams everyday?

Today's lunch. I like posting pictures of my lunch because, why not? You're not seeing any dinner pictures because I am a complete PIG and also because I eat a variety of un-photogenic (like me!) Chinese home cooking.

11/09/12
Yams, teriyaki chicken, green beans, roasted red potatoes, and meatballs

I love me some carbs, especially when potatoes are roasted like that. Wish they served yesterday's salad every day instead of what seems like every 2-3 days. Oh well, the food is still quite good, I'll live.

Baby yams...

Had a huge breakfast at a dining hall on campus with BF. Said I was too hungry to eat lunch at work. 10 minutes later:

11/08/12
Yams, grapes, salad (tomatoes cucumbers, lettuce, feta), broccoli, mashed potatoes, chicken with gravy and cranberry jelly! 

I'm a big fat liar! I can't wait for Thanksgiving, I can never get enough of cranberry jelly/jam.

Taking this blogging thing super slow and not pushing myself. Didn't have much to say earlier in the evening but I ended up starting on a small draft post to be posted much later in the future and a larger post that's nearly ready to be posted (I want to edit the post and add pictures). So not terrible then, yes? Right now I'll just try and maintain some kind of presence on this blog to try and make a habit of it while encouraging myself to be more creative in an pressure free way.

Yams yam and yammering away...

I've been enjoying the cafeteria at work and this is what I had for lunch today at $6.42

11/07/12
Lazy Apple "Salad", candied yams, green beans, Asian style green beans with mushrooms, mashed potatoes and meat loaf!

11/06/2012
Yams, salad (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese), one cauliflower, green beans (Southern style and Stir Fried style), and baked chicken (mmm so tender)

You see that fork? This hungry girl had already taken a bite before deciding to snap a picture. I showed restraint today though! Considering my underdeveloped sweet tooth, these yams are perfect. Told the BF that I might've gotten sick after eating 4 pieces but whaddya know, I still got some today. Sometimes I think the people working and eating at the cafeteria must think I have issues. I always circle around a few times, coming back and trying to decide what to put inside my box. I can be soo indecisive, but its because 1. I don't want to get something or a lot of something that turns out not so tasty (I've only been to this cafeteria 4 times now), 2. I don't want to overeat and stuff myself because I feel guilty for not eating everything since this place is pay by the pound. So I guess I'm nitpicky and cheap? Yea, that sounds about right. 

Since Sunday I've been using two workout apps called VirtuaGym and DailyYoga. It looks dorky, especially the first one, but they're seriously kicking my ass. I know part of the reason is because of my lack of physical activity for the past 6 months (yes I am ashamed) and the fact that I was never really that physically fit to begin with. Having said that, these apps are still pretty good if you can't be bothered to pay and/or drive to a gym. I feel like I can actually keep up a workout routine with these apps. They hold me accountable for my physical health and I can't make excuses about not having the time or money to do it. The really hilarious bit about VirtuaGym is the avatar they use to walk you through the workouts. British accent (UK developed app I think?) and says things like, "You will turn heads" and so on in a very robotic voice. You can turn this feature off though. As cheesy as it sounds I really like it and it makes me enjoy my workout more. 

Which leads me to this: the Samsung Galaxy 3 is the best thing since sliced bread. It's amazing. And I only have one tiny gripe. The gallery is kind of a pain to use and I don't like how it's set up at all. Hopefully this is just something I'll need time to adjust to...otherwise I need to figure something else out. On the first generation SG1 you could go to each individual picture and send the picture, upload it, crop it, etc. I wish I had that back. Oh well, it's otherwise the best phone ever. So good it prevented the BF from converting to Apple! Yesss!! SG3 couple! xD

And lastly a round of hurrahs because...no more annoying presidential campaign commercials!