1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup
My name is Karen. I was born in the Philippines but moved to the US with my family as a baby.
I’m 33 now and still a bit of a baby. 🙂 My addiction to makeup began at 14. I remember the day my mom took me to my first makeup counter. It was Clinique, and we picked up my first blush, eyeshadow, foundation and powder. That was it! I was hooked.
Beauty comes from within, but makeup cheers me up when I’m down, helping me feel my best at important moments in life. When I look at a tube of MAC Paramount lipstick, I see something much more than a bullet of wax. I see the big moments that Paramount has seen me through — crossing the stage to get my college diploma, that crazy night with my girlfriends on my 24th birthday, my first big job interview.
I wonder what lipstick I’ll be wearing when I find out I’m pregnant, and what eyeshadow will I wear to my little brother’s wedding?
Seasons change like color collections. I can’t wait to see what makeup has in store for me next!
2. What do you do for a living?
Until a few weeks ago, I worked as an assistant to a book agent, taking care of the office, reading manuscripts and dealing with writers and publishers over the phone. I left the job to go back to school for journalism and to be able to spend more time blogging and freelance writing for magazines.
If you know of anyone looking for an “idea” person, give me a call, LOL! I like being creative, and in my dream job, all I’d have to do is sit in a room and think up weird stuff all day long.
3. Tell me about your family
I’m the oldest of two. My parents were waaaaay strict with me when I was growing up, but my little brother got away with *everything*, go figure.
After many years spent kissing frogs, I met El Hub in front of a bookstore in 2002. It was our first date. Instead of flowers, he brought me a book (Stephen King’s On Writing), and it was the first book a boy had ever given me on a first date.
Last year our family got a little bigger when Tabs decided to adopt us. He totally treats me like his secretary/assistant/servant, but I don’t mind.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to dance, especially hip hop. I’ll never qualify for America’s Best Dance Crew or anything, but I can still drop it like it’s hot when it has to be dropped.
I also like to surf but only when I go to Hawaii to visit El Hub’s family. I live near the ocean by San Francisco, but I’m not cut out for surfing these frigid Nor Cal waters wearing wetsuits that make me feel like a sausage, bluh.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’d like to learn how to play the accordion.
I really love carbs.
I used to be terrified of the ocean.
My friends say I’m goofy.
I got this idea for a meme from an e-mail I received the other day and thought it was interesting and fun. There are some of you I know a lot about but others I’m still getting to know.
If you’d like to share, copy the following questions, and pop them with your answers in the comments.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
2. What do you do for a living?
3. Tell me about your family.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
The sun just made an appearance after a couple days of rain, so I’m off for a walk around the neighborhood with my camera. Enjoy the rest of your weekend. I’m so not ready for it to be over…
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
OMG, I’m gonna sound so boring!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name’s Ellery, I’m a 17 year old boy from Scotland. I was born in Scotland and I’m still living here but I’m moving to New York in November.
I love makeup because I’m a really creative person and I see makeup as art. I love trying new things and I find it amazing what you can do with makeup. Even when I was a kid I used to buy magazines just to get the free makeup with it.
2. What do you do for a living?
Nothing, but I wanna work for MAC or as a coffee shop waiter.
3. Tell me about your family.
I have 2 brothers, one’s 13 and the other is 18 (or 19… I forgot!), neither of them talk to me much so there isn’t much to say. My dad’s a typical dad, my mom’s a typical mom.
My cat, Babycake, is 1. She likes kisses but hates being hugged. And my dog, Jack, is 6, he’s a cairn terrier and I rescued him from a farm where he used to be abused with a horse whip, so he’s really nervous and doesn’t like noises but he’s really cute.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Shop! Go for walks, be with friends, watch movies.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Ummmmmmmmm. My favorite color is yellow. I’m terrified of dark water (TERRIFIED!!!!), I wanna own a pet tarantula but I’m also terrified of spiders, One time I had pink hair, I drink too much coffee, I spend too much time online… I think that’s all for now!
Your hub buying you a book is just too cute. 🙂 This is a really good idea, I love learning stuff about people. 😀
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I used to play dressup with my mom’s old makeup and counted the days until I was allowed to wear it in 7th grade. About a year later, my mom took me to Clinique for my first makeover. Since then, I’ve been a makeup “snob” not stopping to wear anything from a drugstore. That is, until recent life changes reduced my makeup budget and I had to break down and try a few things from drugstores. Cue my discovery of makeup blogs! It wasn’t bad at all so now I love to look for makeup “bargains” at various drugstores but still wear dept when I can buy it.
2. What do you do for a living?
I work in client services for a company that does financial management for physicians and hospitals.
3. Tell me about your family.
I am married, have a 13 year old girl (who loves makeup as well) and 8 year old identical twin girls. They are I have 2 brothers and 1 sister.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to read blogs, go to movies, listen to music.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I carried my twins until 39 1/2 weeks and breastfed them until 15 months.
I play the piano.
My hubby was my big college love, but we broke up b/c I felt too smothered. 10 years later, we ran into each other, got back together and got married a year later!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I am addicted to glamour and making my house look beautiful. I LOVE LOVE LOVE makeup because the possibilities are ENDLESS…you can create a whole new look every single day and shock, dazzle, woo or make people go into a state of veklemptedness–lol..is that a word?–with your interpretation of beauty and hotness as translated onto your face via makeup. Sometimes I think part of the reason I love makeup so much is that my mom wouldn’t let me wear it until I was about 15. This wasn’t bad b/c it made me appreciate my natural beauty, however, now, I cannot live without makeup, LOL. She created a makeup monster!! Also, when I was in the 6th grade, based on good behavior, my teacher would reward students with certain activities. For the girls, one of them happened to be a little makeup session one day, and I remember how she complemented me on my application. After that, I was DONE. LOL.
2. What do you do for a living?
I am a writer, an interior decorator and I manage an IT office.
3. Tell me about your family.
I have a little brother and 3 sisters, and 5 beautiful godchildren, and a lovely family all around!
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Dance, shop, peruse (and then buy out) any MAC store within a 10 mile radius of me, lol, go to museums, analyze (eveything from song lyrics to behaviors), go out with friends, try new restaurants (this translates to eating, haha) and decorate my house. I am always changing things around and I have a great eye!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I am a total neat-freak and recently have become obsessed with purchasing items that help me “organize” from the container store, LOL. I also love Domino magazine and am addicted to buying books, as well as makeup.
Diva Style´s last blog post..CHANGE
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m 36 years old and a Bay Area native (East Bay baby!). I got into makeup when I was 13 and have never looked back. Became a MAC addict around age 19 and own A LOT of MAC makeup!
2. What do you do for a living?
For the last 7 years I have been working as a Management Associate (fancy for Executive Assistant) at a large Bay Area Biotech company in SSF. It’s definitely NOT my dream job, but it pays very well and has killer bennies. I got my degree in English (with a creative writing option) 10 years ago and don’t have much chance to use it at work, which is why I started my own blog.
3. Tell me about your family.
I live with my husband and fluffy critters. I have 3 cats and a dog. My step-daughter, who is 10, comes over every other weekend. I have a much older brother (11 years) and sister (9 years) and pretty much grew up an only child. I have practically NOTHING in common with them since I was a child of the 80’s and they so are not, LOL!
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I read A LOT
I have my own blog
I love photography and want to learn more
I am contemplating writing my first novel
I’m a huge movie & TV buff
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I am a total nut. My friends also describe me as either goofy or wacky. I come off really serious and quiet at first, but once you get to know me I am totally the opposite. I have a huge love of cupcakes and cake. One of my deepest fears is sharks, though I watch shark week obsessively. I also have a complete and total fascination with Mt. Everest ever since I read Into Thin Air about 10 years ago.
Vampy Varnish´s last blog post..Misa Nail Polish – Part II
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
Hi. My name’s Fie. Well that’s short for Atifi. Somehow my name got shorter as I grow older. I have about a gazillion nicknames from friends & family and I’m not even 22 yet!
I started using makeup when I was 15, I got myself some things from MAC (using my own allowance)! It was a gunmetal-ish coloured eyeshadow and Pink Poodle lipglass! From then onward, I started venturing into the world of make-up and different brands.
I love the creativity and how a person can express themselves using different types of looks created with makeup. I find myself loving the experimentation process of new products and seeing how I can incorporate it with my current stuff. Nothing (except for the boy) can make me lift myself up when I’m down..nothing like sitting on the parquet floor of my room and start playing with them!
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m currently not working but I will have start to find a job starting June. I’m studying in the UK and will graduate with a (hopefully) BA (Hons) Marketing degree.
3. Tell me about your family.
I am the youngest of 2 siblings (hehe) and yes, I get away with *almost* everything. My boy says I’m spoiled and I am my daddy’s girl. I agree.
My mom gave birth to me when she was 49 (while they were on holiday!). I’m just glad there were not complications. I am going to turn 22 in November and my older brother is 18 years older, so that would make him 40 this year! So doing the maths…parents are 71!
Well my boy isn’t part of the family (yet) but we are planning to get married in 2010/11.Haha the story of the process of how we got together is very dramatic, so I won’t go into that! He’s very understanding of my MAC addiction. 😀
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
If I’m back home, the boy and I would go on a spontaneous trip to another state just to eat dinner! Haha, I love to travel and I love food. 😀 So I combined the two! We do this from time to time.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
*I’m terribly scared of the supernatural. (Ridiculous, I know)
*I can’t sleep in absolute silence (my iTunes is on when I sleep) unless my boy is around. (refer to point above)
*I hate the cold, when I see the sun my mood changes to being better!
*Some of nephews and nieces are older than me! I have grandnieces/nephews too. 😛
Fie´s last blog post..IMATS London ’09
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Melissa Street and I was born and raised in Los Angeles. I am 30 11 years young and I am also a wife and mother (of two teenage girls).
My obsession with makeup happened when I was 14 years old – my friend’s father was a special effects makeup artist in the film industry and I used to spend a ton of time over her house. I would watch her dad sculpt and make all kinds of really beautiful (and sometimes gross) masks and prosthetic pieces.
When I was a senior in high school I told him I wanted to to what he did for a living and he told me what makeup school I needed to go to and got me an apprentice job with the late Stan Winston.
2. What do you do for a living?
I have been a professional makeup artist for the film and television industry for the past 20 years – it is the only job I have every had!
3. Tell me about your family.
My eldest daughter is 16! She is very into makeup (and boys) and likes anything MAC! She also love designer jeans and italian boots – wonder where she gets her obsessions? She is on the varsity volleyball team at her high school!
My youngest daughter is 13! She is also very into makeup (and boys) and shopping! She is a lover of Abercrombie and Fitch (loves that Fierce perfume!). She is a first degree black belt in Taekwondo and could probably kick my butt, but would never try!
My husband is from Connecticut originally and graduated from Dartmouth College. He is an editor for the television and together we own several businesses including – InPoint Productions and Epic Makeup.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time I read many, many beauty blogs and blog myself about what I am working on professionally (television, film, etc.) and I also have a product review blog called “In My Professional Opinion..” I get asked constantly about products that are in my kit or what I use on a certain client.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I love your blog and think you are a fantastic writer! Good luck out there in the big world of freelance!!!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Chris (nickname Cass) and I am just over 40 years old.
Born and raised in East Bay (Oakland! It’s a good place despite some recent issues and bad politics – if we could all just get a long it would help!. Went to college in Washington State where i met my husband in 1985. We got married and moved to Northern California in 1996 to escape the rain.
Makeup – Have loved it since teen years. Like to mix drugstore deals with higher end although I have been successfully paring down my stash and trying to spend only on what I know will work.
I relax by reorganizing! It does seems to have calming influences on my brain. Also I love sharing items with my sis.
2. What do you do for a living?
Sadly, I am unemployed since January 1. Worked for Mervyn’s Dept Stores happily for 18 years. I am job hunting but most days I am bored out of my mind! Looking for a non-retail job but very hard to get anyone to even look at resumes these days.
3. Tell me about your family.
Have a younger sister (she has two very cool kids) close by. Most of my family is in NorCal. Hubby and I live in Berkeley with our two Siamese cats.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Reading (regressing to an earlier, simpler time via Jane Austen), hanging out with husband on walks through town and being around family.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Love this site – esp. the latest in Videos. Plus, I get a pop culture fix when I visit here!
Karen, it’s nice to know more about you! Your awesome personality comes through so much on this blog. It’s such a treat to read – seriously:)
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m 26 – originally from Wisconsin but I’ve been living in the DC area for the past five years since I graduated college. I have always loved makeup – as a young girl I always loved going to Walgreens and checking out the Maybelline! When I was 14, my sister-in-law took me under her wing and brought me to the counters at Macy’s in Chicago. Clinique was my first! Like you, I like how makeup makes me feel, cheers me up and is with me at the biggest moments in my life.
2. What do you do for a living?
I am in communications – I work for a PR firm. I do a lot of writing for my clients and also manage their media outreach campaigns. A mix of corporate communications and working with nonprofit orgs.
3. Tell me about your family.
My family is mainly in Wisconsin still. My parents and two of my three siblings live there. I’m the youngest of four (two sisters and a brother) and my oldest sister is 14 years older than me. I suppose you could say I was a “surprise!” I got married in September of 2007. I met my husband in 2001 at the University of Wisconsin – we were neighbors.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Besides the obvious shop for makeup, I like to read. I love being outdoors – walking, hiking. And I love tv – as lame as that sounds – but me and my DVR are tight! I like going out on dates with my husband – movies, happy hour. I also blog too:)
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I am a writer, a photographer and a kitty mother by profession. I only got into make up 4-5 years ago and since then it has been a painful obsession. I guess I love the process of transformation but also how unserious and fun make up is (or should be).
2. What do you do for a living?
Write, and deal with archiving.
3. Tell me about your family.
Only child, live with lots of crazy women
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Shopping, Writing…I don’t have spare time any more 🙁 if I did I would take up something like Kung Fu.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I didn’t realise you were from the Phillipines! And I like Stilton.
Rowena´s last blog post..Cosmetic Candy Shop Launched!
Oooh yay, something else to distract me from cleaning house haha.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Briana, I’m 22 years old, I live in northern Alberta, Canada right now. I hope to go to college in September for a Bachelor of Communications.
I have had a love/hate relationship with makeup for a long time. I can honestly say that I’m too lazy to wear it most of the time. I’m starting to put a little more effort in though because I’ve realized I feel way better when I look good. Its taken me a long time to figure out what works for me, and so now I’m a little happier about putting it on. I love that even if I’m having a terrible day and I feel like crap, makeup can still make me look amazing 🙂
2. What do you do for a living?
At the moment I work at Booster Juice. Its a Canadian-born juice and smoothie bar, started in Edmonton, Alberta. I actually don’t mind the work, but its getting a little boring after having been there for a year.
3. Tell me about your family.
I am the youngest of 3. My brother is next up, and then my sister is the oldest. I have to say I’ve had a pretty easy life. Being the youngest I got to do everything almost as soon as my siblings did. I was a little bit spoiled. Now my family is my boyfriend and my evil possessed cat. She has the worst mood-swings I’ve ever seen haha.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time… I surf the internet. Ha, I’m not that exciting. I like to go for walks, but its too bloody cold for that lately, and I like photography as well. I like to write, and design as well. I’m currently working on a website/blog for myself. The major I’m going to be taking in school is focused on a lot of design and writing as well. Hopefully I can watch my skills progress 🙂
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I love makeup and beauty blog, it is like #3 on my list of sites that I check multiple times a day. I’ve learned so many helpful tips and tricks that are improving my makeup skills all the time! Thanks 🙂
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Rovie and I’m 24. I was born and raised in the South Bay and have lived there all my life, except for the 4 years I spent getting my degree at UC Davis. I got into makeup when a friend gave me my first tube of mascara in middle school. That started up my interest in makeup. I love makeup because it allows me to play with my looks and try out new things without doing something permanent or drastic.
2. What do you do for a living?
Currently I am a Marketing Assistant for a small niche company but I am also actively looking for another job, hopefully a better marketing one.
3. Tell me about your family.
My family consists of my mom, dad, and younger brother. My parents were also stricter with me growing up.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to go window shopping to give me fashion ideas and I also spend a lot of time web surfing. I have also been making my own greeting cards since I like being creative. I also love going out on dates with my boyfriend.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
My favorite makeup brands are MAC and Clinique, although Lancome is quickly becoming my third favorite. I also love that you have the same skin tone as me since I tend to have a hard time finding shades that work for me.
OOOH I LOVE DOING THESE =D .. plus i feel like i know you a little bit mmore =]
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
me is jana . 20 years young, but i get mistaken for 18 =D . i’m filipino but live in sydney australia. oh and i’m an only child and i talk to much and i have a short attention span and i’m addicted to iced mochas and my favourite book is ‘air kisses’ by zoe foster and i love aj rafael music *SIGHS* and um .. i love one tree hill and the city cuz the hills is over *sighs*
so WHY i love makeup? to be honest, i got into makeup because of you karen! your blog showed me a whole different world to makeup and it all went down hill from there!
2. What do you do for a living?
well for now i’m a student, i’m starting my second year at macquarie uni studying media and cultural studies.. i WANT TO transfer overseas *crosses fingers* but i do have a job! i listen to pieces of audio and type out what the audio is saying .. FUN HUH?! *rolls eyes* but 17bucks an hour .. WORKS FOR MEE!
3. Tell me about your family.
OMG my family? are you nuts?
i’m an only child. my parents overprotect me wayy too much and treat me like i’m 5 .. forreals. however despite my crazy parents i’m lucky to have 3 beautiful cousins who are like my sisters and are always there for me! we keep eachother sane and can bring out the best and worst in eachother.
..the other people in my fam? my lolo & lola (on my dads side live in the phils) my aunts & uncles , majority of them are either nurses or doctors OR teachers so typical . we argue over stupid things and have grudges like theres NOOO tomorrow . but i still love them .. i think =S
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
go SHOPPPPING! hehe . sleep in! . read! OH and watch full house episodes! hehe not the korean one .. the one with the olsen twins! and i love going into the city with my friends! and bake and karoke and .. blog and talk on the phone and write letters and .. see i told you i talk too much hahah
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
-it’s australia day today
-i finally got my license .. only 118 hours till i get my provisionals!
-i want cupcakes
.. okay thats alll =D
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I love make-up because it can transform you. I love seeing makeovers on TV and how a little blush, mascara and lipgloss can lift someones spirit. Blush is my new thing so your last video on the Bounce technique was right on time. I tried it yesterday and it turned out lovely. I am just getting into make-up (I will be 30 this year Yikes) I always felt it was to hard to apply and time consuming but since I began my makeup journey it has been pretty easy. Now if I could just master the smokey eye.
2. What do you do for a living?
I work in the membership department of a medical association and I HATE it. The company and the department just suck. I majored in Public and Community Health and it may sound like a match but honestly this has nothing to do with who I am. I am way to creative to be stuck were I am so I am looking at finding a new job and going back to school this year.
3. Tell me about your family.
I having a younger brother and we get along like two peas in a pod. I am always amazed by people who don’t get along with there siblings, while my baby bro and I may disagree we always know that we both have the best of intentions towards each other. I am hard on him at times but he knows its only because I want better for him. I don’t tell him enough but I love that dude. My mom and I are best friends even though we are polar opposites. When people meet her they don’t believe she is my mom because we look NOTHING alike but I have pics the moment I was born so I know who I belong to. LMAO
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Right now I am all about self improvement and changing my life so everything I do is to help me reach my goals of finding a career and owning my own home. When I wasn’t on this new goals kick I was on facebook all the time and playing scrabble I heart word games. I kick arse at scrabble.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I have a birth mark on my leg in the shape of the United States its kind of freaky but it looks just like the map minus Hawii and Alaska of course. I am at a turning point in my life and everyday I try to choose happiness and I know my best days are yet to come. Okay I think that is enough for now.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Justine and I’m 22. I love makeup because of the pretty colours, the packaging, and the way I can totally change how I look depending on my mood. I find it sometimes more versatile than clothing, and I get inspired looking at how other people work with makeup. I think it confuses my family a bit though, my sisters and mom are pretty much make-up free, with the odd use of foundation here and there… and then there’s me with my large train case!
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a Registered Nurse in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). I actually got into makeup because I noticed when I bothered to do my eyes I looked MUCH more awake after a night shift. I was sold!
3. Tell me about your family.
I am the youngest of 3 girls by a lot (8 and 10 years respectively for my sisters) but grew up with a large network of cousins living only blocks away from me… so I felt like I had siblings anyway. My sisters and I are getting along better now, but we had many fights when I was younger due to the age difference (now it’s because we’re all kinda stubborn, LOL). My mom is also a nurse and my dad is a machinist, and my sisters and I all picked contrasting professions (computers, law, nursing).
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love to read (although I’m in between books at the moment) and I scrapbook when I can work up the motivation. I love swimming (although it seems less desirable when it is -30C and my hair freezes the minute I leave the door) and walks when it’s nice out!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’m happy I found this blog! You were the first make-up blog I found with someone who had a similar skin-tone to mine… so I trusted all your swatches!
Justine´s last blog post..Snapshot Thoughts
Hi Ellery,
That’s exciting news about you moving to NY in November. Will you be moving for school? Will Babycake and Jack be coming with you?
Oh, and if you ever make it out to San Francisco you better let me know!
Hi Bethany,
What a great story about you and your hubby! Where did you guys run into each other when you met 10 years later?
I can still remember getting those green Clinique compacts when I was 14 and thinking that they were the coolest things, ever! 🙂
Hi Diva Style,
I wish I could hire you to decorate my house. I have no decorating skillz whatsoever! Right now I just clip pictures out of the Pottery Barn catalogue and Better Homes and Gardens. Someday I’ll get around to making those rooms happen!
Hi Vampy Varnish,
East Bay in the house! 😉
I too have a huge love of cupcakes. Have you ever been to Kara’s in the city?
Hi Fie,
Time is passing so quickly! I remember when you were worrying about packing your makeup and moving out to the UK… now you’re going to graduate in June. Crazy!
Where were your parents vacationing when your mom gave birth to you?
Hi Melissa,
Thanks, hon! 🙂
I think that it’s so amazing that you were able to know what you wanted to do at a young age. I envy that!
Oh… do your daughters ever raid your makeup stash?
Hi Chris,
Yay, I am an East Bay girl, too. 🙂
What are the names of your kitties?
Hi Laurie,
I used to wander the drugstore looking at Maybelline, too. 🙂 To this day I still like to go the drugstore, eat an ice cream and wander around the makeup aisle.
And girrrl — I am ashamed to actually admit how much TV I watch. I like the really brainless stuff too, like Parental Control on MTV, LOL!
Hi Rowena,
Yup! I can’t really remember it, though. I went back about ten years ago for the first time. It was really HOT!
Hi Briana,
Yay! I am so glad to help. 🙂
I wish I could go to your smoothie bar and order something orange-y! We have a smoothie place here in the US called Jamba Juice and I’m addicted to this one drink they have called Orange Dream Machine. I’m craving one right now.
Anyway, you are so lucky to be the baby of the family! The youngest ones get away with everything.
Hi Rovie
I went to UC Davis, too! 🙂
Hi Jana,
That is so lovely to hear! I am glad that you’ve been exploring the world of makeup… it’s so much fun!
LOL, you made me crack up when you mentioned that your family can hold grudges like there’s no tomorrow. I know how that is!
Hi Babyu21,
I think the smokey eye is just one of those things that takes a long time. I still can’t get it right, LOL!
How many years apart are you and your brother? You are lucky to get along with him so well. My brother and I have a huge age difference so that was one thing that kept us apart when we were growing up.
Hi Justine,
I love to swim, too. What is your best stroke? I can only do two, really — freestyle and backstroke. I love how relaxing swimming is; it’s almost like meditation!
I have ordered cupcakes from Kara’s for work events in the past, they are pretty good! I visit http://www.cupcakestakethecake.blogspot.com almost every day and LOVE looking at all the pretty pics!
Vampy Varnish´s last blog post..Misa Nail Polish – Part II
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Arianne. I was born in the Philippines too (gotta love that Filipino food!) and moved to Toronto, Canada in the beginning of high school. Now I am 22, and a full-fledged girly girl. I love makeup because it makes me feel confident and ready to face the day. It’s amazing how looking good makes a difference between a good day and a bad day.
I like that I can express my moods through makeup. I’ve always liked art, and I think putting on makeup is my chosen medium. I’m a frustrated artist!
2. What do you do for a living?
I am on my final year in University, on my to an undergraduate degree in Computer Science. This explains the Sci-fi geekery. I like math, puzzles, and looking at code. 😀
3. Tell me about your family.
My parents are a little strict and old school. They still think I’m a baby, even though I’m almost finished my schooling! I have an older sister who is 10 months older than me (parents got busy, LOL! and awkward?!). We used to share a room until I was 19, which made us hate each other being in the other’s personal space. Now we’re good friends again! Haha. My brother is 19. He likes video games and the usual boy stuff, but he also likes to steal my Gilmore Girls DVDs and watches them episodes at a time! Ha!
My cat’s name is Mingming. She’s a ninja and sweetheart rolled up into a furry kitty. Feisty, and photogenic to boot! I think she hates being photographed, but since my sister got a DSLR, she can’t escape it. See here: 1 2.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to go snowboarding when I have time to drive to the mountains. It hurts like hell because I’m still learning, but I like it a lot. My dream is to ride half-pipes in the future. I also like watching puppies and kittens on YouTube.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I think I might be turning into a crazy cat lady.
Arianne´s last blog post..How much is your face worth?
I’m in love with that website! I used to love baking (I had to quit because I started putting on lots of weight from my numerous cake “experiments”) and taking pictures of the stuff I made. Now I can experience the fun without having to actually consume the calories. Thanks!
Hi Arianne,
Your kitty is SO PRETTY!
Oh, and you aren’t the only one who is turning into a crazy cat lady, LOL. I’m so with you!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
Hi! I’m lily and I recently just turned 20.
I’m Chinese but I have been living in the US (washington DC area) since I was 10. so I’m pretty much bilingual.
I love make up because it’s a way of expression, and I just love applying it because it makes me happy (makes everyone happy lol). I study in the art/design related field and anything to do with painting, drawing, designing intrigues me. Makeup in a way is totally a form of art! I guess that’s why I love it haha.
also i’m a sucker for packaging. so yea.
2. What do you do for a living?
I am currently a student, studying Interior Design. it’s tedious, but I find it very rewarding. I was a fashion design major, but changed because I realized that I don’t have to be in fashion to love it. I work part time at a book store 😛 guess which one, it’s the largest chain bookstore in the US. lol
3. Tell me about your family.
My family…is weird and dysfunctional (highly). My parents are divorced, and my dad just got remarried and is about to have another baby, It’s something I’m not sure how I should feel about, but I guess I’ll have to see in the future. lol i’m not gonna go into details, because my life so far has been through few very rough patches.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love to draw/sketch/design etc. listen to music, discovering new artists. watching movies on youtube LOL. and read up on make up blogs!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I.LOVE.YOUR.BLOG! haha
Ahem, be prepared for a very loooooooong comment.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I was born in Bavaria, West Germany. I was born into a military family so I’ve lived in a total of 5 states and one other country. I’m a bit of a medical mystery since I have disorders with no apparent origin and my mom was healthy during her pregnancy with me. I’ve pretty much been in and out of hospitals, doctor’s offices and various therapies my entire childhood since I have epilepsy, asthma, autism and cerebral palsy (diagnosed in that order). I’m always telling people to donate to find a cure for any of the above disorders, especially epilepsy. It’s not as frightening as the commercials for Epilepsy research make it sound but there needs to be awareness of the disorder to combat the stigmas attached to the disorder.
I love make-up because I always feel girly in it. I have a pretty adrogynous face with prominent facial structures. I also love make-up for its ability to conceal the two scars on my face and acne or to highlight my features such as my eyes. I’m a pretty artsy person and I love my brown-grey eyes so I’m always trying new shadows. I’m known to be pretty unpredictable as I switch between strong eyes and strong lips. I may love my eyeshadow, but no love it stronger with me than nail polishes. I’m an OPI addict! I’m still hunting for a spare bottle of OPI’s “Year of the Dragon” because I loved the color so much!
Have I mentioned my birthday is the 31st of January? I’m going to be twenty. A whole decade older. However, I do get to rip open my presents with the care of a four-year-old and I love presents. It’s the best part of my birthday and Christmas.
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a college student. I’m hoping to transfer to art school in Chicago this spring so I can get a degree in interior design.
3. Tell me about your family.
I’m the oldest of two children. My little brother is 22 months younger than me and we tend to fight like gods and Titans. My parents were pretty strict with me but very lax with my brother. My brother is perfectly normal and is very cocky about he’s the only one without a disability. I don’t like how he thinks I’m weak because I pretty much have pain every day. I was the House before House existed in terms of pain. I just deal with it better.
My parents are still together after 21 years which is strange in today’s society. My mom is a housewife and my dad is a a retired Army major but still works (it’s confusing, I know).
I have a crazy Decker Terrier named Zena who is constantly the subject of my blogs (if you wish, I can link you to The Murder of Mr. Blue Devil if you wish). We adopted her after my previous 3.5 year-old dog passed away tragically at home. Zena is exactly ten days older than her predecessor here just as my birthday is 10 days after my mom’s and my dad’s is 10 days after my grandpa’s (10s seem to run in my family). Ironically, every person in my family (Zena included) is born on an odd-numbered day and month. My brother and Zena were born on even numbered years (the rest are odd). Odd, isn’t it?
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Read, listen to music, sing in choir (1st soprano), read some more, watch movies, etc.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I turn 20 on Saturday.
Zena says, “Hi!”
It is way colder where I live than where you live thanks to this big body of water called LAKE MICHIGAN!!! So, be happy! I want to hear no complaining from San Francisco. It’s 7 degrees here without wind chill, -4 with.
I love reading this blog, Ricebunny’s and BellaSugar’s blogs for beauty.
My dog has more barks, yips, growls and groans than R2-D2 can ever hope for.
I’ve taken 4 years of French! I still want to take more too. I <3 French!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I was never really into make up. Even as a kid, I only had one adorable makeup picture w/ lipstick smeared all over my mouth. I even looked like a little boy w/ my bowl cut. I was pretty much just a “can’t go outside w/o eyeliner” until college. I love make up because it gives so much room for creativity. I’ve always been a creative person and it’s honestly been one obsessive creative thing after another. Drawing, Poetry, Photography, Baking, Make up…
2. What do you do for a living?
Go to school and cook dinner and chaffeur (sp?) my younger sister.
3. Tell me about your family.
I am the oldest and have a younger sister in hs. I was pretty much taken care of during my child hood by my grandparents bc they lived with us. People are always telling my parents how my sister and I have a natural [affinity?] to helping out and befriending the old folks. I have a mom and dad who drive me crazy [JK, sorta] bc they are quite opposite. My dad is the lenient but prone to ‘uncalled for’ freaking out and my mom is the ‘wears the pants and skirt’ stickler. My sister is the loud, energetic, dancing like there’s a party in his pants grrrl.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Eat anything that tastes, contains chocolate. Bake, walk around drugstores looking for deals, eat pastries and sushi from the local Jap market, hang w/ friends, watch movies and nap nap nap.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I <3 your blog. I actually found your blog bc I was looking for reccomendations on make up suited for filipina skin. I ended up on your post about “Brown is Beautiful.” I’ve been subscribing since. 🙂
hey karen!
been freezing cold again up north in montreal! hope your weekend was restful.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
i was born in seoul, korea, and everyone thought i was a boy (until they looked down there) because i cried so loud and clear. i stayed there until i was 5, then i left to beijing, china and stayed there, alternating between amsterdam, the netherlands and beijing for the best part of the next 13 years. i was an ugly duckling until about age 16, when i was nerdy and flat as a washboard (but thankfully that made me slender and willowy in my late teens 🙂 yay)… then at 16, i discovered MASCARA (and contact lenses), and everything changed!
now i’m a psych-econ double major with a minor in behavioral science (concentration in speech pathology/developmental linguistics) who is completely and utterly obsessed with ballroom/latin dancing and the argentine tango. i speak four languages fluently (korean, english, mandarin, spanish, learned in that order), and am on the way to acquiring my fifth (french).
i have relocated two and a half years ago to this frozen iceland called montreal, where i live with hansel, my hot pink betta fish, and my huge collection of cookbooks. i now split my time either at school, reading about modeling language acquisition with LISP programming language (one of the courses i’m taking this semester), or at dance practice/some type of dance event, where i’m found smack dab in the middle of the dance floor.
i love makeup because i can play up my creamy skin tone and full lips (red lipstick, haaaayyy), and become any identity i like – 50s pinup, smoky eyed supermodel, drag queen-y eyelashes, anything is possible with makeup! also, if used correctly, it brings out the best features in anyone.
2. What do you do for a living?
i’m a student primarily, but i take odd retail jobs here and there, and run salsa/ballroom dancing workshops occasionally. i primarily teach technique and women’s styling.
hopefully in the future the dancing can become a bigger part of my career, and i hope to compete professionally someday (blackpool, here i come!).
3. Tell me about your family.
i have one younger sister, both my parents, a crazy but cute pug named mr. wrinkles and a cat called fuzz (but we just call him cat or kitty normally). the most recent addition was the aforementioned betta fish called hansel, who swims around in a 1 gallon tank on my desk.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
ballroom/latin dance, argentine tango, cooking, contemplating ways to look prettier, catching up on sleep (two full time careers make me a very sleep deprived person). i also love to caffeinate in the cafe a few blocks away where they have the cutest barista 😉
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
i love this blog!
i also love tabs.
all hail lancome definicils, the first makeup item i ever bought, and the catalyst to my change in becoming a confident, strong woman.
because of the power of mascara, i now know i am NOT an ugly duckling 😀
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup. My name is Katee and I am 28 years old. Makeup is fun! I love being able to wear different looks to suit my different moods.
2. What do you do for a living? My background is in the hotel business but I am currently unemployed by choice.
3. Tell me about your family. I live with my boyfriend and two cats. I have a mom, dad, step-mom, step-dad, 1 half sister, 2 half brothers, a step brother and a step sister.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time? I love to blog- I have a blog dedicated to nail polish (which is attached to this post) and also a personal blog I keep at http://mskatee.blogspot.com. I also love to play tennis!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share. My bf and I moved to California from Michigan back in July. We love it here!
katee´s last blog post..New to me: PeaceKeeper Cause-Metics
I love these sorts of things, Karen 🙂 Yet another reason I also love reading your blog, even though I’ve been slacking lately and have to get caught up!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name’s Elle, I was born and raised in Chicago (first generation Filipino/Spanish, woot), and even though I’m not the girliest girl out there I love makeup. I started getting into makeup after I saw how much it can transform a person’s face, attitude, everything (especially in movies and with my favorite bands/musicians), and I just like the artistic aspect of it as well. I think I’m just a frustrated painter deep down sometimes. I also got hooked on MAC in particular after getting my makeup done by a MAC artist a few years back in NYC for a TV show, and now they own huge chunks of my paycheck. 🙂 I also just like that makeup cheers me up no matter what, which is what I’ve needed a LOT this past year.
2. What do you do for a living?
I worked in a lab for some time after college, but now I’m trying to figure out what else I want to do with my education and I’m doing the working student (night school) thing…assistant by day, broke student by night 🙂 I’d love to be a writer, though–that was definitely the first thing I can remember wanting as a kid. That, or a vet. 🙂
3. Tell me about your family.
I’m the youngest of two girls, with (like you, Karen!) waaaaay strict parents. And lucky me, since I’m the younger girl (and the girl who wasn’t as boy-crazy), I get the burden of the higher expectations–yay! 😉 I have tons of cousins everywhere around the world, but I’m a lot closer to my immediate family. I also have a doggie, and my best friend who is just like a real sister to me, but she unfortunately lives in Vancover, which sucks. 🙁 As for relationship stuff, I’m pulling a “It’s complicated”…I’ve been almost-engaged, and have dated various other not-so-good guys, so I’m taking my time on that sort of thing.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love going to movies and concerts, cooking, reading, shopping, being with friends, and being randomly amused. (Trust me, it doesn’t take much to amuse me)
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I love your blog! 😉 Seriously, your writing style is awesome and all of the info on here is endlessly useful. I also wanna travel the world someday. 🙂
Hi Karen!
Yes time has passed by and I’m half-way through! (woo hoo)
Hmm…They were vacationing in one of the northern states in Malaysia. Haha, poor mom had to celebrate her birthday in the hospital as I was born 4 days before hers. I just tease my mom from time to time that I was her birthday present!
Fie´s last blog post..IMATS London ’09
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I love makeup and all cosmetics since I was 12. I wanted to hnow how to take care about my skin, which makeup matches my skin, why some eyeshadows last and some don´t. Five years later I have stareted cooperating with cosmetic on-line magazine and with strawberrynet.com.
2. What do you do for a living?
I study history.
3. Tell me about your family.
My father passed away two years ago, so I live just with my mother. I have no brothers or sisters, but I have wonderful dog.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love creative writing, listening music, surfing on the internet, shopping…
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I like the style of your blog. I showed it to my boss, who makes the cosmetic magazine.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
Im 23 and originally from Croatia… I love make-up because my mother is a model and there was always plenty around to play with. I guess I never stopped playing!
I love Croatia and spend 6months a year there… i love being by the see. Even when im alone.. if im in my hometown i feel alive and free.
Im 179cm so im pretty tall for a girl..so i always feel a bit vulnerable. If i take the bus my head is normally 10cm above everyone elses!
I cry…. ALOT! Veeeery sensitive!
2. What do you do for a living?
Im trained as an actor.. but now im not so sure what to do!! Im thinking of taking a creative writing course as i used to write for a newspaper. I come from a divorced family that is pretty well off on both sides so I do alot of charity work.. and really random jobs!
3. Tell me about your family.
Its really just me and my mum… (my dad is abroad and getting v.old and grumpy) I have a big family but noone is very close. They consistantly seem to hurt me and my mum.
I live with my boyfriend of 2 years. I feel a bit sad knowing that its just me and him.. I feel at times my partner and i just keep going because were scared of the truth which is that in some ways we are not right for each other. We love each other deeply.. but we think so differently sometimes love is not enough.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to take long walks whilst listening to my i-pod..
I love to travel!
I love to be the passanger in the front of the car and drive around for hours singing to music.
I also really like my ‘alone time’.. its really frustrating for me sometimes because I dont feel i have enough time!
I also love having girly days or weekends.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I never really got over having my heart broken the first time a couple of years ago. The guy ended up being a total stranger to me.. all the promises were lies and ever since then I dont feel like myself anymore.
Because of that i seem to shed skins and have to start again constantly. Apart from a few lifelong friends (who live in every country but the one im in) I seem to be part of the group and then within a 6 months/year im alone again.
However despite being a tad melancoly im upbeat and fun to be with…and totally nuts!!
have a nice day karen!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m 25 and I’ve really been into makeup for about 10 years. I love taking time for myself, the art of make up, injecting colour into my life and the confidence it gives me.
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a lawyer and I love it! Hub is also a lawyer and although our jobs are very different, I love that we understand each other’s working life.
3. Tell me about your family.
I’m one of three sisters, and we’re all daddy’s girls. I’m very lucky as three of my grandparents are still alive and both mine and Hub’s parents are still together. Me and my husband have two dogs, and we sometimes feel like we are just visitors in their home…
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love to read, to cook and to entertain. I often wish that I had more hobbies but I also value free time to just think and relax, and so I’m mostly happy that my schedule is never full.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I don’t own a pair of pants.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
First off, I’m Chinese by race and Singaporean by nationality. I’ve lived in Singapore all my life but don’t want to stay here forever – I see myself as a big city girl and am sick of hot humid tropical weather 😛
I’m 20 (21 this year) and have been into makeup since I was 18.. mainly because makeup isn’t allowed all the way up even till our high school, so I only got into it after I left high school 😛 I love makeup because it makes me look better, makes me feel better and is a great morning ritual for me 🙂 I just love all the colours and am particularly obsessed with lipstick!
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m currently a law student (it’s an undergraduate course here). I’ll probably go into private practice doing corporate work for a few years and possibly move on somewhere else as in-house legal counsel.
3. Tell me about your family.
It’s just my parents, 15 year old brother and my boyfriend. My parents are pretty decent and they’re not all that traditional, thankfully. They’ve started giving me a lot more freedom after I finished high school and started college, which is really quite awesome. My boyfriend is going to be studying math and physics and wants to be a theoretical scientist… he just finished compulsory military service and is going to teach physics at a high school for a few months 🙂
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I am a huge Star Trek buff and I’ve recently been trying to watch most of the Star Trek series ever made. I also do a lot of reading (non-law related!) – lots of fantasy and sci-fi, including Star Trek (of course). I’m also a dancer and have been dancing since 8 – currently I’m doing ballet and jazz. I also perform professionally on occasion, which helps fund my makeup! Oh, and I’m also taking French classes.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I don’t drink or smoke.
Karen – LOL – I even watch a Double Shot of Love. I need help! MTV is so addictive:)
Laurie´s last blog post..Can Someone Help Me Understand This?
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Jennifer, but due to the 800 other Jennifers in my classes I always went by Jen. I am 24 years young and struggling with turning 1/4 of a century old…
My first experience with makeup was at about age 13. I had older cousins who wore makeup all the time and one day made-me-over. I must say the dark lipstick look of the 90s was not the best look for me, but it definetly hooked me. With my little bit of allowance I would buy wet-n-wild products all the time. My first fancy makeup experience was with Clinique… my mom took me to the counter for my 15s… the latina version of “the sweet 16s.”
Like you I remember stages of my life with makeup. The first one was #549 and it cost me .99cents. I discovered MAC through you… I knew it existed… but you got me to buy it! 😉
2. What do you do for a living?
I am a Clinical Social Worker, which is just a fancy word for Therapist. I work at a psychiatric hospital with chronic mentally ill individuals. My undergrad degree is in Psychology and my Master’s in Social Work is in process (Ugh… Love the field, hate the papers that come along with a degree!). I love what I do right now… I definitely know that life has a different plan for me… and I am looking forward to whatever that is…
3. Tell me about your family.
I am an only child who was born in the island of Cuba and brought the US as a small child. I have assimilated extremely well and love to call myself a Cuban-American (I am extremely grateful to this country). My parents suffocated me as a child with love and overprotectiveness. Today they are my best friends… and some of the coolest people I know. (Really… they have a better social life that I do). I got married in May of 2007 to the man of my dreams. He is Jamaican and has the most gorgeous eyes I have ever seen, they should make an eyeshadow shade that matches his green… We have two dogs, Cubby & Fendi and we are planning to add a human baby in the mix as soon as possible.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love to collect purses. This is a problem. Cheap or expensive. Big or small… love them all. MOST houses have a pantry closet… mine has a purse closet where the pantry closet should have been… ;-). I love to read, write, and just hang with the family… I figure when I finish with this very demanding Master’s degree my hobby list will increase.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I LOVE your blog. In a non-stalkery way… I feel as if you and I would be great friends if we lived in the same city (I’m in Miami). Some of the things you say… not only make me laugh… but they crack me up! I admire your relationship with your hubby and think you are really cool!
Apart from that I would like to share that I’m looking forward to what life has to offer. I recently came to the realization that no matter what, we should LIVE LIVE LIVE and enjoy every second of this wonderful thing called LIFE.
🙂 Thanks for all that you do for all of us!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m now 21, from Belgium. I have loved makeup for a very very long time. It’s all part of this huge dress-up that is live. I love drama and theatre and make-up is a way of incorporating that element of play in my everyday life.
I don’t really remember the first makeup I got. But the first decent make-up was with my mum at the Body Shop. She wanted me to get something decent and I got three eyeshadows and my first real make-up brush. Wohoo!
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a student. Unfortunately that’s not a very profitable profession but yeah.
I’m in teacher training for English and music but I’d like to do drama once I graduate in June.
3. Tell me about your family.
I live with my mum and brother. My parents have been divorced for over seven years. I’ve always lived with my mum and she is amazing. She’s the kind of person I really look up to, she’s fabulous.
My father unfortunately isn’t so nice but we’ll just ignore him.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Singing, dancing, acting. I love to write stories and to draw though I don’t do the latter that much anymore.
I’m taking a street/hip-hop class here in Sweden now, so that’s pretty awesome.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Erm. Not at the moment.
Karen B´s last blog post..a thought
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
hmmmm…. I am 29 going on 30 and a native New Yorker of Puerto Rican decent. I have a passion for art and design since I was a very young child – i used to make things out of any empty container i could find!! It wasn’t until I came to highschool that i began to formally train in fine arts and multi media at la guardia high school of music art and performing arts. After 8 years of formal art training the dream of being an “artist” just wasn’t a reality. Makeup is a medium for me that really allows me to be creative and explore with my passions – COLOR, texture and light! i will never forget when i got my first mac cosmetic – that was like a gateway drug for me – from there the price point just got higher extending to dior and chanel and other friends of the like!
2. What do you do for a living?
I am a graphic designer by trade in nyc – although i studied advertising design and graphic communications in college – my main focus is color correction and photo retouching
3. Tell me about your family.
i had avery strict upbringing- my parents are young not even 50 quite yet ! just like you karen my parents were breathing down my neck and on my case about everything while my younger sister has gotten away with murder all her life. we have a very close knit family and its pretty much the four of us. i have been with my fiance for 7 years now we live together in brooklyn and one day when we can focus on an actual marriage instead of work we will take the plunge !
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
SLEEP, exercise – kickboxing, street fighting capoeira anything that includes a release of aggression is OK in my book, organizing and reorganizing my makeup reading makeup and beauty blog, and hunting down hard to find beauty items – its a sick obsession but gives me a thrill , watching junk reality tv to clear my mind!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
my mom had been diagnosed with breast cancer a few years ago but has been treated successfully over the last few years – its been a real eye opener in the appreciation of family. i dream of doing something more creative with my life, i was a capoeirista for 2 years , i am terrified of open waters, and while i have never been conscious of my age because on average i act like i am 15 lol this year i am totally freaking out about becoming 30 i have two months left to savor it! i never really made mistakes in life to regret so i feel like i have missed out on that sense of irresponsibility that youth gives us – i have always been responsible i guess i am really stuck in the responsible mode now for sure! Last but not least I am an ARIES i am as determined and stubborn as they come!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Andrea Lind I just turned 17 on 4th of january. I live in Iceland which is ok, but I love traveling to other places. I’m half Icelandic and half Jamaican. My dad is black and my mom is white, they divorced when I was about 2 years old,I love them both allot and I’d rather have them divorced than not. I don’t actually love make up, I just have a growing interest. About 2 years ago my interest first came, I wanted to study make up at school but they don’t offer that yet, so I went to a very tough college instead to study pshycology. One day I’m going for make up, sooner or later. Make up makes me smile. All those wonderful colors 🙂
2. What do you do for a living?
I work in a super market up town but that’s not exactly my living since I’m only 17.
3. Tell me about your family.
I come from a very global family. My dad (Rudolph) is from Jamaica, and his brothers and sister from London, Canada & Australia, which is very strange I know. My mom (Guðbjörg) born in Iceland, but her mother is german and her father is from a very small island between Iceland and the UK. I have 2 sisters and 1 brother that I’m only related to through my mother. Their names are Karen (13 yrs). Ingibjörg, called Iris (10 yrs) and my brother Jóhann, called Joey (6yrs). My father lives in my hometown but I live with my mom across the country. Moved there 2 years ago.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to be with my boyfriend which is also my best friend. I haven’t been separated from him since I came home from a holiday in Canada last summer, not even one day. I’ve been with him for one and a half year, lovely time. I also like to shop, allot. Even though I’m shopping for fruits I still find it fun 🙂 I’m very good with computers too and I like to read.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Uhm… I can speak 4 languages, Icelandic, English, Danish and German. I’m very shy, I stress out allot and I’m afraid of people I don’t know, don’t like changes and I’m very optimistic and happy 🙂
This is so fun!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I was born in India, but I moved to the US when I was around 3 years old. I’ve lived in Ohio since I was 9 years old. I’m 31 now.
My parents were not too strict for Indian parents, so I was allowed to wear makeup. I first tried it back when I was in middle school. I know I went through some pretty bad makeup and fashion phases back in the 80’s! 🙂
I love makeup because it makes me feel pulled together and polished. Along with dressing nicely, it just makes me feel good about myself and more confident.
2. What do you do for a living?
I am an IT Analyst for a telecom company. We develop our own software and I write the requirements for the software develoeprs. I got a computer science degree in college and I hated writing code. This job is the perfect fit b/c it is technical, but I don’t have to write any software. This is my first job out of college and I really like what I do.
3. Tell me about your family.
My parents live about 20 minutes away from me and they had an arranged marriange and have been married for more than 30 years. I have a brother who is 9 years youner than me and he is super smart – seriously, he got into Harvard Law. I’m really proud of him, but since he’s so much younger we’re not that close – although I wish we could be. The rest of my family (aunts, uncles, cousins) are back in India.
I will be married for 10 years (!!) this June. It’s just me and my hubby. I’m not sure if we’ll have kids, but I might like to have a cat some day.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I am so lazy in my spare time. 🙂 When I’m on vacation, I love to read. Otherwise, I enjoy surfing the internet and watching movies. We used to own a jet-ski and I love being out on the water. Also, Hawaii is my favorite vacation spot. I love being on the beach.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’ve been using “Violet” as my online screen name since back in college. My first name is somewhat unusual, so I don’t use it online. 🙂 I love to laugh and like being around people with a sense of humor.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Carolina. I was born at Chihuahua, buy currently I live at Mexico City. I like makeup because it enhances what I believe that are my favorite features (for example my eyes and my lips).
2. What do you do for a living?
I am a copywriter on a direct-sales cosmetics Company. I make sure that all of the codes in Brochures are correct, shades accurate, etc. I also write all of those cheesy phrases that appear on the Brochures… and work a lot on its design.
3. Tell me about your family.
I have a HUGE extended family… but here in the city I live with my mom, dad and my sister. My mom used to be a kindergarten teacher, and she taught me how to read when I was 3 years old. My dad is quite a cool guy who is not afraid to make a fool of himself as long as he makes us laugh. My sister is younger than me… but she’s waaaaay taller.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I really like to go on concerts, take pictures and spend time with the guy who’s been my boyfriend for the last 4 years.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Ever since I was in a huge earthquake at age 5, I am terrified of them.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I am born Canadian but my family’s heritage is Chinese. I was born in Vancouver, BC but have lived most of my life in Calgary, AB.
I have a hard time remembering when I WASN’T somehow obsessed with makeup…but I remember the first makeup I got – a super 80’s type colour palette from Marks & Spencer (a British department store. I got it for Christmas (I was probably 12?) I was hooked.
The reason I like makeup is that it’s creative & it gives people the possibilty to transform themselves – you can emphasize many different characteristics of yourself by how you do your makeup.
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a full time admin assistant and part-time visual artist, I’m hoping to be a full-time artist one of these days! I also do freelance makeup whenever I get the chance.
3. Tell me about your family.
My mum & dad immigrated to Canada from South Africa in the 70’s, I have an older sister who is not into makeup, shopping & the like at all!
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Run, hike, work out – basically be physically active. Also do freelance makeup & check out art galleries.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I breathed a huge sigh of relief when I found out about beauty/makeup blogs…finally I didn’t feel like a crazy person for owning all the makeup I do!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m Filipina-American. I was born in San Diego, and still live here. I love makeup because I think it’s fun. I remember my mom letting me get an Elizabeth Arden make-over when I was in Jr High…just so I would learn how to apply makeup. I love MAC and Lancome. I also love Paramount!
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a local government employee. My hubby thinks I should open my own business making invitations and party favors.
3. Tell me about your family.
I’m an only child. I’ve been married for 6 1/2 years and have 2 daughters, 4 and 2 1/2.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Make handmade invitations/thank you cards for my girls parties, scrapbook, and hang out with the fam!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I love Hawaii, Vegas, and Disneyland.
I wish I could be a free-lance photojournalist.
I refuse to drive on the freeway when it rains.
Thanks Karen!!! This was fun!!!
Karen-this was tons o’fun! Thanks for posting this!!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
Hi my name is Tania some of my friends call me Nia. I live in the big ole state of Kansas. My dream is to live in NYC, become an ordained Deacon in the United Methodist Church, and to marry a sweet, sexy rocker type guy who looks like Trent Reznor. *swoon*
I love makeup because it is so transformative and makes me feel great when I put it on, unless I’m allergic to it then it doesn’t make me feel great.
2. What do you do for a living?
I am the Director of Youth and family ministries at a church here in Kansas. I also work as a receptionist for the Episcopal Diocese here in Kansas. I also do quite a bit of volunteer work and stuff so I’m busy all of the time!
3. Tell me about your family.
My fam situation is interesting. I’m adopted however I knew both of my bio parents. My bio dad is deceased he died when I was 17. My bio mom and I are tite! My adopted dad is my father although we aren’t blood related which I don’t think matters. Both of my mom’s though put together would make the perfect mom I’m sure of it! Biologically I don’t have any siblings but I have a half brother who I’m tite with and then my adopted dad has like 8 other children and we aren’t tite at all. My fam situation is crazy but who’s isn’t? My first pet was a wonderful calico cat named Sasha whom I LOVED!! We had to put her asleep about a year ago and I miss her tons! Everytime President Barack says Sasha I think of that cat and so does my dad.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time I like to be at home or any place quiet because I’m always on the go with work and stuff. I also love the library and go there about everyday. At home I watch the tele and rock out to my fav tunes. I also like to bake and pretend I’m Martha Stewart.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
My favorite color is fushia/ hot pink and I wear it all of the time in various degrees. I had someone ask me at church “Are there any other colors that you wear besides hot pink?” So you better beleive that I wear and own lots of pink makeup!!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m 23, live in Jersey and I love love love make-up. When I was in high school I didn’t understand make-up and never wore it. Most I wore was eyeliner and it wasn’t even done correctly. I went to college and my roommate couldn’t have been more opposite; She was a complete girly-girl. We ended up getting along really great and she was the girl who taught me basics: blush, bronzer, gloss, mascara and now I am a fiend. I love make-up because it makes me feel pretty, which is a feeling i had never felt before. And upon learning how to do make-up I found things I love about my face opposed to the things I don’t, which I can alter with make-up.
2. What do you do for a living?
Well I currently help with the family business but I am trying incredibly hard to be a screenwriter. *fingers crossed*
3. Tell me about your family.
They rock. My Parents look like Carmella and Tony Soprano minus the plot line. they are two of the most fun people you’ll ever meet. My friends call them “Mom” and “Pops” and both my friends and my parents love to get together. My sister is my bestfriend. Our conversation consists of whatever muffled words make it through our laughter. We basically speak in a language of our own. For short, I genuinely enjoy family vacations.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Write. Read. Sleep. Watch Movies (I can spend an entire sunday watching movie after movie). Play with make-up. Take photos. Paint. Read Makeupandbeautyblog.com 🙂
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’m inspired by the most random things.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m a 21 year old female from Arizona. My obsession with makeup began when I was about 13. Every morning I would go over to my bestfriends house, and we would put on her moms makeup. Then it just grew from there. I started really trying out eye shadows and everything a few months ago. But before that all I did was powder, eyeliner, mascara and chap stick.
2. What do you do for a living? I am currently a FT student, and I am a self contractor. I make my own hours, and it’s pretty much up to me however much money I want to make.
3. Tell me about your family. I have 2 parents, and I am extremely close with my mom.. except she never wants to let me go so we have had this struggle ever since I turned 18. I also have 2 older sisters who are married. One of my sisters has a 3 year old daughter, who is the light of my life. I never wanted kids until my sister had her. My other sister just had a son, who is adorable. We have never had a baby boy in our family, so its a new experience for us. It’s us girls, and then even my aunts and uncles all only have girls. He is gonna be a little heartbreaker, I already have him wearing Converse.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time? I love to read and write. Writing is a huge passion of mine. I also like to hang out with my boyfriend and we go out with friends, watch movies, spend time together, etc. I also spend a lot of time with my family.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share? My boyfriend and I plan on getting married within the next 2-3 years. He wants to finish at ASU first. I just had my 21st birthday on the 22nd. I am going to school for nursing, this is my 1st semester at college. I was in beauty school, but I dropped out.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Lesley and oddly enough my nickname at home is “Kay”. I was born and raised in the Philippines until the age of 17 where upon graduating from high school I decided to move to San Francisco to attend U. of SF. I’m in my last semester of undergraduate studies and will finish with a degree in Politics, Pre-Law with minors in Business and Economics.
I first fell in love with make up way before I could even remember. I used to watch my mother each morning put her make up on before she went to work and there are pictures of me as a child putting on (with precision!) some lipstick. I first officially owned make up when I was thirteen when my mom brought me to Clinique to buy foundation and blush and Chanel to buy my first lipgloss for my middle school graduation. I haven’t looked back since!
2. What do you do for a living?
Though I’m still in school I work *almost* full time as a dormitory manager (note: not an RA). It’s a pretty rewarding job, I love my employees and the students who live in my building. Despite that I have to deal with phone calls regarding a need for janitorial clean up services of a poor girls barf, it’s seldom, and I never actually have to touch any of that stuff so it’s okay. I don’t think I’m going to do this for the rest of my life… so we’ll see where life will take me when graduation comes closer 🙂
3. Tell me about your family.
My mother is an Ophthalmologist and an eye surgeon while my father is a Cardiologist and heart surgeon, they both practice in the Philippines. My father’s side are all doctors whilst my mothers side are all civil engineers/architects/interior designers.
I’m the youngest of four. I have an eldest sister, eldest brother, older brother, and then me! They all have their own life stories, but to my parents initial disappointment and later approval, none of us entered the medical field but we’re all successful in our own right.
My Hubby and I met my freshman year on the eve of my birthday he took me out on a date and by the time the clock hit midnight he gave me a kiss and we’ve been together since 🙂 We’re hoping to find an apartment soon that will allow us to adopt a cat since we’re such avid cat lovers, but our current land lord is keeping our hands tied.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to read (everything!), be a general couch potato, and do some scrap booking when school work isn’t too heavy. I also am a pro at prancing around our apartment while singing along to my favourite pop songs. 😉
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I really want to study photojournalism. I love taking photos and San Francisco is a great subject, but with so much happening in the world at all times… I just wish I could be everywhere at once clicking away with my camera. Which… really is just a really old basic model of a DSLR which I should replace. Maybe a grad present from Hubby? LoL 🙂
This was really fun! And kind of stress relieving as well… I guess it got my mind of my first day of school jitters.
How are classes going for you, Karen? Have they started yet? I’m sure you’re looking the most fab with your makeup looks!! 😀
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love make-up
I’m 35 and i’ve only recently become a make-up addict. Guess I’m making up for the lack of love life which is quite unusual 🙂 It turned out make-up is a whole exciting world full of beauty and creativity. Plus, it brings more colour in our daily routines.
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a teacher/translator. I’ve also worked as a journalist and spent the worst year in an office (I hate office work!)
3. Tell me about your family
I haven’t got much of a family. My mother died 13 years ago. She’d divorced my father when I was a teen, he’s now married to a woman younger than me and we aren’t that close. No brothers or sisters. Single. Yes, I’m quite a lonely person. I have some very good friends, though 🙂
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I can’t live without the Internet. I swear I could surf 24/7! The other surfing, Karen 🙂
I also enjoy a good book and a good movie. Good music. A night out with friends. Good booze 🙂
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I make my own cosmetics. I started with using vegetable oils and now I make creams, lotions, cleansers, and soaps. I’m a cosmetics guru for my friends, lol.
I drink about 10 cups of tea daily.
Sometimes I go without sleep for 24/36/48 hours.
I’ve stumbled upon Karen’s blog last year and got hooked. This is the best beauty blog ever.
So it goes.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Michelle, I’m 26 and my husband and I have been together for seven years. We have a six year old son. I am originally from New York and my husband is originally from Mexico City but we now reside in the Valley of the Sun. We have a chihuahua and a cat who came to our family last summer. I love makeup because I love playing with the colors and discovering new looks I can create. I love to wear makeup because It makes me feel good about my outward appearance. Without it I just don’t feel like myself.
2. What do you do for a living?
Technically I am a Medical Assistant but it’s hard to find work so I am a receptionist in an ophthalmologist office and a part time business student.
3. Tell me about your family.
All my family still lives in NYC except my mom and little sister, they live here in the Valley. My mothers side is Puerto Rican and Spanish, and my fathers side is Italian and Spanish. My grandfather still lives in Spain. My grandma has a beach house in Puerto Rico that we like to visit when we can afford the airline tickets.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I absolutely love to read. I read a new book every week. Currently I’m reading Cheap Diamonds by Norris Church Mailer and Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer. I also found recently that I love to cook. I just need a good recepie in front of me and I’m set. I also love doing family things like going to the movies, fairs, shows and theme parks. And I love photography, everyone in my family is used to me snapping photos of them during family get togethers.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
My favorite color is pink and I love shoes and purses too 🙂
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Alison, I’m 26 and from Whitby, North Yorkshire, England. I have loved make-up ever since playing with my Mum’s Estee Lauder stash when I was little! I have drawers full of make-up most of which I never use!
2. What do you do for a living?
At the moment I am still a student, ‘m studying for my Master’s degree in Public Health and I have a BSc in Nutrition. I want to solve the Obesity crisis! Would love to work with children and young people promoting health living.
3. Tell me about your family.
My Mum, Dad and Brother all live here in Whitby, my brother is younger than me and has Asperger’s syndrome. My Dad has always worked abroad, I was actually born in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates where he was working at the time.
My boyfriend and I have been together for 7 1/2 years, we met at while working at the local supermarket and we’ve been happy ever since, he’s now managing his own supermarket after going to Uni etc.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy salsa dancing, it’s really fun and a great workout, I am also a Huge film buff, I love watching films! Particularly those involving Johnny Depp LOL! I also love Hiking, Cycling and make-up shopping!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
When I was 9years old I had my right kidney removed.
I’d love to learn to speak Italien, such a beautiful language.
This has been really fun, thanks Karen x
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’ve lived in Madison, WI all of my 20 years, and I can’t wait to find my place in the world. I’m sick of being here!! I have a couple of health problems:Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I’ve had them for half my life. Being in the cold is no walk in the park for me. Since I frequently look like a zombie with dull skin and super intense dark circles, I’ve relied on makeup to help me feel like a human being again. I’ve just recently been getting into designer make up. Benefit’s erase paste has been a life saver! Heh. I love being able to present a vibrant face to the world even when I feel like dog crap.
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a student, and I’m just about to graduate my online highschool!! Finally… I also work in a little mom and pop knitting store. I love interacting with people and helping them get exactly what they want. Plus I get to play with colors all day.
3. Tell me about your family.
I have a wonderful mom and dad, they’ve supported my so much over the years. I have a younger sister (15). I love her, but my god we can fight about the stupidest stuff! She’s finally getting old enough to really talk to, you know?
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love to read. I go to the library at least once a week. I’m obsessed with historical fiction at the moment. As well as supernaturally themed books.
I adore movies, old and new. Acting too! Especially Shakespeare. Weird I know.
I sing in a choir and take voice lessons. Singing is the way I express myself.
I love genealogy and am obsessed with researching my family.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I am craving a cupcake like mad. I love sweets. I bake an amazing chocolate cake.
I’m not assertive enough, but I’m learning.
I live in the fantasies I create in my head too much.
I want to write more and dream of writing a book someday.
Sorry my answer was so long!!!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
Hi dolls, my name is Tiera! I’m 21 (but on old soul at heart). I was born and raised here in Honolulu. As a kid, I danced hula, sang, and entered pageants, so I’ve pretty much been wearing makeup (and loving it!) all my life! I used to give my friends and cousins makeovers, which evolved into doing makeup for my hula sisters for performances and competitions, then weddings and other events.
2. What do you do for a living?
By day, I’m an assistant in an event planning company, which has pretty much been a blast! I’ve always had a desire to get into event planning and/or wedding planning, and this has definitely been an eye-opener and a wonderful experience so far. By night, I’m a clerk in the sports department at a newspaper… fun! I get paid to watch football/basketball/volleyball/Olympics/etc. Can’t complain! In addition, I’m always working on growing my business as a makeup artist and my new blog, Beautery. Did I mention I’m still in school?!
3. Tell me about your family.
I was an only child for about 10 years, and after asking Santa for many years, I finally got a wonderful baby brother! He just turned 12, I can’t believe it! My family is AMAZING! I have millions of aunties and uncles and cousins everywhere, and they are the best ever!
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I’ve been dancing hula since I was 4, and it’s definitely something I’m passionate about. I’m a total pop-culture junkie, and love to watch tv and hit the movies. I also really love to listen to music and read. Does anybody read books anymore? Anyhow, I also love to make crafts (mostly paper crafts and jewelry)
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I speak Hawaiian, though not often. I have the best friends in the world. I once got paid to go to Japan. I love Mochiko Chicken and spam musubis. I get sad in the mainland because there’s no fruit punch at McDonald’s/Jack in the Box/Burger King/etc.
*Thanks Karen, this was so much fun!
Tiera´s last blog post..MAC Well Defined: An Introduction
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Elizabeth (but use ‘Lillybeth’ for fun) and I’m 28 years old. I live in New Zealand, in a city called Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty (that’s its real name!).
I wish I had a romantic-sounding introduction to makeup where my mum took me to a store and bought me some makeup but the truth is: I started wearing foundation at around age 10. I got my first pimple/spot when I was nine (NOT FAIR!) and because my mum was a rep for a direct-sales cosmetic company, she gave me some foundation to use that she had on hand. When I was 11 I got used to applying it to wear to school when needed and was using it everyday at age 12 and after that I added mascara and lipstick etc, not that it made me any prettier as I didn’t have a grip on which colours suited me!
All through highschool I experienced acne on all areas of my face at different times and it was quite bad (bad enough to always be on my prayer request list for God to heal it!) but at age 18 it finally left my face alone and I only had problems with acne below my jawline on my neck. And that’s how it is now. It comes and goes with my monthly cycle – hormonal acne all the way!
Long answer short?: I love makeup because it allows my true self to shine through for others to enjoy.
2. What do you do for a living?
I now use my years of experience (mainly mistakes!) to teach women how to become their own beauty experts through customised makeup lessons! I started a small, local-based business and also trained as a makeup artist last year so I could charge for my consultations and give unbiased advice and recommendations and offer professional makeup! It’s not making me a ‘living’ yet so I’m hoping like heck Paul achieves his iPhone-programming goals!
3. Tell me about your family.
My Daddy died 5 years ago when his long-term heart problems (Marfans syndrome) took over. My Mum has remarried to an old but lively and slightly crazy Irishman. 🙂 I have an older brother (married), older sister (divorced), older half-brother (married) and a handful of very good-looking nieces and nephews, the older being 16. Paul is my best friend and my husband. We’ve been married 2 years, 3 months and have a moggie cat called Mac (Yes, we’re Apple fans) and a Maltese female dog called Macey.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Travelling and exploring with my husband, playing with Macey and consoling Mac (for being chased by Macey), designing and maintaining my website, experimenting with eye makeup when motivated, watching comedies/standup, watching The Office, Lost etc and learning about the future.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I love colour, especially yellow, am extroverted, a thinker, a follower of Y’shua (Jesus) and would love to sing in front of people and entertain, like in a cafe with a musician, just doing covers or songs they’ve written…maybe as part of a band…
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m a 27 year old newlywed living in Orlando, Florida. I’ve loved make up (buying it, putting it on, putting it on friends, talking about it, etc.) since elementary school. My first *totally exciting* make up purchase was neon green and pink bottles of nail polish that my best friend and I wore all summer, much to our parents chagrin. We were nine. I think I still like make up so much because there’s always something new to try…and I’m a sucker for a pretty package. Plus, there isn’t anything that can cheer you up as cheaply or as easily as a good drugstore beauty find!
2. What do you do for a living?
Contracts Negotiator for a defense company. Yep, I work for the man.
3. Tell me about your family.
I’m the oldest of two girls and very close to my parents. My sister is just a few years younger, so we’ve always been good friends. My immediate family lives thousands of miles away from any aunts/cousins/etc. so we’ve developed our own traditions and stuff over the years. I just married into a HUGE family, so that’s been a crazy – but fun – new experience for me.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Cooking/baking and entertaining…I love having friends for dinner parties. I do some wedding coordinating as a bit of a side job too — I never get sick of talking about centerpieces and stationary, it’s probably bizarre. When I have the time (and money!), I like to travel abroad with the husband. Largely, I’m a cheap date: I love to sit around the fire pit in our yard, drink wine and chat with my girls until waaaay too late 🙂
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Love this blog! Thanks for all the work you put into it Karen!!
Hi Karen! It’s fun to see some info about your faithful readers. Here goes!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m one of your older fans–47 years young, but feel that any generation can relate to each other if you have something in common. I’ve been married for 6 years, and currently split my time between our homes in NH, CT, and SC.
Since I was a child, I’ve been enamored with color–I loved receiving a new set of Crayola’s for Christmas (which my aunt faithfully gave to me and my siblings every year!). It was the big box with all the colors—so pretty! I took art classes all through school, and even a class or two in college, so playing with color palettes has always been in my life. Cosmetics are a natural extension of this love of color. I look forward to the new collections every season, and could spend hours at Sephora or just about any department store with a large cosmetics department (much to my husband’s despair!) LOL!
2. What do you do for a living?
I’ve had a myriad of jobs throughout my life, from office and sales jobs, to industrial engineer, to assistant manager of a nightclub, to insurance underwriter, and now, I’m a VP for a company (I’m part owner with my husband) that produces consumer shows. I have a BA in English with a heavy concentration in science/engineering.
3. Tell me about your family.
I’m the youngest of three. My sister, who sadly passed away 17 years ago at the age of 31 of a blood disorder, was 2 years older than me and my best friend. I have a brother who is 4 years older than me who lives with his wife in Florida.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love to spend time with my friends, which is sometimes difficult, giving that I’m always here, there, and everywhere! I ski and snowshoe in the winter, golf in the spring and summer, and love to walk anytime of the year! I enjoy photography, and I belong to a couple of food and wine groups.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’m very proud of my French-Canadian heritage, and have researched my genealogy back to France in the late 1500’s. I discovered that my best bud (who happens to be a guy friend from college) is related to me about 4 generations back–he did his genealogy before I did, and we found a common ancestor! No wonder we get along so well! :0)
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
Hi there! I´m carol, I live in Mexico and I really love buying pretty things. I first starting loving makeup when I was younger and my older sisters would go out. They’d trust my critical eye to check on their hair, make up and clothes. When they left I had all the makeup of the world to me! and I’d experiment and that’s how I learnt to really really love makeup. It would make me feel different.
2. What do you do for a living?
I sing in weddings, which means I’m in full makeup, hair and dress most of the weekend. It’s a fun job and I dont have to wake up early, like, EVER!!! lol… It’s the biggest job perk.
3. Tell me about your family.
I live with my 2 older sisters and my mom. My dad lives in Texas and he just got me the Shu Uemura eyelash curler!! woohoo!!
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time? Sing, makeup, play guitar, dance dance and dance, read and write.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I love eating doritos. Lol. and I have a special kinda love for soome kinda donuts…
I speak spanish, english, and some french.
Last night I slept 15 hours… I was tired… lol.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Julie and I am 21 years old. I am a college senior majoring in neuroscience.
Why do I love makeup? I guess I like the shock factor it brings whenever I go out with my friends because they’ll be like “OMG! She’s wearing makeup–not that she looks bad but…” hahaha but something along those lines because I pull it off very well. But i like the shock-factor because I’m always known as the studious girl and that I’m always working and doing those thing doesn’t really feel glamorous when you’re up until 3 am working while you know other college students are out having a life.
Also since I can’t afford designer clothes as of now, makeup is the like the closest thing.
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m just a student who is actively looking for a full time job.
3. Tell me about your family.
I am the oldest of three kids. My 2nd sister is 19 and my youngest is 1.5 years old and yes, our parents still together. Awww…
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Reading this blog. Expressing myself in my blog though it’s not particularly interesting–it’s just nice to vent and express myself.
since living in LA for college, I don’t have a car. But when I do I love to drive looong distances. But as of now, I’ll explore with a bus.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
– Ever since college I’ve been a vegetarian because the college student diet is not healthy and i don’t have the money to buy meat dishes lol. The truth is, I’ve been considering since the 2nd grade because I think of those talking animal movies but…it’s not common to be a Filipino vegetarian because there aren’t a lot dishes that are vegetarian. Anyways I’m not a true and strict vegetarian since the only time and place I eat meat is my parent’s house and it’s actually good.
– I love working out
– I genuinely do love my major–I’m not in it to impress people
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Latanya. I’m 32 years old (but looks 21 as my students/husband/anyone checking ID still informs me). I’m happily married with children. I live in Southern CA.
I love makeup because I’m a girly girl. I love trying out new colors and showing off how they look on my face!
2. What do you do for a living?
I teach high school English.
3. Tell me about your family.
I’m married with two little sons. We’re pretty typical I guess.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Shop, listen to music, watch good films, and spend time with my family.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Even though I’m a girly girl, I can be a complete dork sometimes, lol.
Wow, you’re Filipina, Karen! I am one, too. 🙂
Hi Karen! awww this is nice stuff, sharing between makeup addicts is awesome…
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Adriana and I am originally from Panama but I live in Montreal, Canada (i.e. coldest place ever). I am 28 and I started getting into makeup only since last year! During college I got a couple of quads from mac and loved to use the eyeshadows to go out but I never wore makeup to go to school as my skin is very sensitive and every foundation or powder broke out my skin. Only since last year, after discovering MUFE foundation I started finally wearing foundation and hence more makeup. I love eyeshadows, cheek products and glosses. I love makeup because I am a frustrated artist, and mixing colours to enhance face features is so awesome I cannot ask for a more artist wanna be past time.
2. What do you do for a living?
I am a chemical engineer who works for a non-for-profit organization. I do a lot of GHG (greenhouse gas) quantifications. Soon I will be going into masters (hopefully this next September) and I will do a Master of Engineering.
3. Tell me about your family.
I am an only child although I’ve been told I’m not spoiled (people tend to think all only children are spoiled). My mom is an architect and my dad is a professor at a university.
I am married to a wonderful man who I met here in Montreal 6 years ago. We finally got married last year, after having lived together for 3 years. It was the happiest day of my life.
We have a dog and her name is Popcorn, she’s a sznauzer and an awesome dog.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to read a lot. I love books, especially fiction books based on real times in history, novels, etc. I also like to study Biblical passages and listen to music. I like to read your blog and a couple of other makeup blogs and I like drawing. I also love playing with my dog and watching movies with my husband.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I am trilingual (English, Spanish, French) and I am proud to be Latinamerican. I love Canada but it’s too cold in winter, but it’s awesome in summer-spring-and autumn. I love Panama but it has become too chaotic for me and it makes me sad as I would like to give something back to my country and I don’t know how.
Hi Karen, ive been reading your blog for a while but this is my first time posting 🙂
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
Im a student at UBC (in Vancouver, BC) and i love makeup because i love being able to change up my look and of course getting dolled up for parties or the club!!
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a student doing my B.Sc. and work part time in retail 🙁
3. Tell me about your family.
I have 1 younger brother and I still live at home with my lovely parents
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
In the small amount of spare time I have I like to watch movies, hang out with the bf, go to dinner at new places, work out or just give myself a pedicure (i can never find time, right now my toes are hideously nailpolish-less)
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I love your blog, i read it every morning on my commute to school or work 🙂 oh and im a MAC-aholic!
Awesome getting to know you Karen! I will post this on my blog & I will post the link.
http://adirtymartinikindofgirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/getting-to-know-you.html
Marisol´s last blog post..Full of Hope
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m 36 years old, have been married to Hub for 3 1/2 years, and have a 2-year-old son whom I love to PIECES. I knew I always wanted to get married and have kids, I just didn’t realize how much I would love it and the amazing bond you have with your child that can’t be described at all. I would do anything for him.
I LOVE makeup because it is one of the few ways I get to express my creativity. I often feel that I’ve missed out on something because I didn’t work tap into my creative side enough. With makeup, I get to do that. It releases some creative juices and it allows me to have retail therapy…which I NEED. Doing the job that I do, I need a very mindless release and shopping is it for me. A close second is watching the plethora of shows I love which are recorded on my Tivo 🙂
2. What do you do for a living?
I am currently working as a school-based clinician at an elementary school. I’m a Marriage and Family Therapy intern. I finished my internship hours last August (you need 3000). I started the program in 2002, graduated in 2004, and started earning my hours shortly after. I’m currently studying to take my licensing exam. It’s 2 parts – if you pass part 1, you can take part 2 six weeks later. If you don’t pass part 1, you can’t retake it until 6 months later. My part 1 test is on Feb 6th. Wish me luck! Once I pass both tests, I’ll be a fully licensed therapist. I can’t wait…MORE MONEY!!! Woo hoo!!! My ultimate dream is to be in private practice working with children, adolescents, and their families, but in this economy…ain’t nobody be shellin’ out $$ for private practice!! So, I’m trying to work up the ladder in my agency until greener pastures arrive in the economy.
3. Tell me about your family.
We are Indian, from India. My parents were born and raised in Mumbai. My little bro (he’s not so little though – he’s 34) and I were both born in the US. I was born in Oklahoma and he was born in Texas. Bro and I both learned to speak our native language, Gujarati, and we still do. As I mentioned before, I’m married and have a little dude. Working on #2. My brother is also married (he got married 9 months after me) and he and his wife just had their first little one, a girl. So now I have a niece :)! My maternal grandmother is still alive and is pretty active. She lives with my parents. My other grandparents are deceased.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Go to the movies, read books, read beauty blogs (hee hee!), watch TV, bake, play with my son, plan events, travel, try out new restaurants, go “shopping” in my makeup drawers, hang out with my girlfriends (it’s super important to me)
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I don’t like chocolate chip cookies
I’m afraid of the ocean (thanks alot “Jaws”)
Someday I will buy a red sportscar
I’m very spiritual and totes believe in karma
I wish I could go to school eternally (just not take tests or write papers)
Music sets my mood
I used to twirl baton
I was a cheerleader in high school for two years
I’m a sorority girl 🙂
I played softball for 7 years and was the city’s all-star pitcher for 2 of those years
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m 33, married and have 2 girls (6 and 1). I was born in Laos. My nationality is Hmong. I (with my family) came to the U.S. as a refugee from Thailand when I was 4. I love makeup because it brings out ones best features. I’ve been a makeup addict since I was 6. Makeup has come a long ways with all the different colors and textures. I think in the 80’s there were only pink, blue and orange! LOL
2. What do you do for a living?
I am a student advisor for a college. Hoping to quit the job to raise our two girls once husband finishes school. I enjoy my job but I don’t want to miss the chance of being the best mom to my kids.
3. Tell me about your family.
I am the second oldest of 7 children (3 brothers and 3 sisters). My parents are still married…not sure if they are happy together though. I have one nephew who turned 1 in November. I’ve been married for over 7 years. My husband is Dutch American and is in his last year of Pharmacy School. We met in college our senior year. We were both CIS majors who were not successful at finding our dream IT job so we came up with plan B which has turned out pretty well.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Play around with my girls, shop, photography, etc.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
People I’ve come across always confuse Hmong with Mongolian so I always have to explain but now, there is a movie with Hmong peeps in it…”Gran Torino”. Also, “the Secret War” which is a documentary.
And, love your blog Karen.
Lee´s last blog post..Ethnic Necklace
I love these kinds of things! So much fun!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Shana and I’m 27 years old.My mom is beautiful and she wore make up everyday when I was little.My parent’s didn’t let me wear make up until I was about 16. I’m actually really grateful because it made me focus more on taking care of my skin instead of covering up spots. I didn’t start using department store make up until I moved to Asia and discovered that most of the drugstore brands I liked weren’t sold here. That’s when I discovered Stila , which was my first love! I never liked MAC before because the girls who worked there were really snooty and not helpful. Then I found a different MAC counter with really nice people and I got hooked!I can’t buy or wear drugstore make up now! I love make up because it is a form of art. I can’t draw or paint but I CAN do make up. I love that I can transform myself and my mood with a little eyeshadow. I also love doing other people’s make up, and I’m a total sucker for packaging and nice smells!
2. What do you do for a living?
I’m a first grade teacher in a private school. I love my kids and I get a lot of satisfaction from molding little minds!
3. Tell me about your family.
I have a great family! I’ve been married for 3 years and my husband and I have a sweet little mutt dog named Beans. My husband is very artistic and really understands my love of make up and color. I have a younger sister who I adore and an older brother who is like me… but a boy.He married my good friend and gave me a beautiful little niece. I love my parents and my in-laws. We’re all very close and we get along really well.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love to read! I like to cook and I love to dance! My husband and I like to “people watch”. We watch people in department stores and on the street and decide who needs makeovers.It’s sooooo much fun!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I speak, read and write Mandarin because my husband is Taiwanese and I’ve lived in Taiwan for 9 years. I have an African American great grandma. Whenever I tell people that they’re so shocked because I have red hair, green eyes, and very pale skin. However if I didn’t relax my hair chemically I would seriously have a red afro.(Like Side-show Bob from the Simpsons.)I used to rock my afro but it’s too humid in Taiwan and it got out of control. Who knows maybe I’ll go back to it one day!
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
Hi Karen! First- I have to tell you I love reading this blog! 🙂
My name is Antoinette (sometimes Annie) and I’m 26 years old- born and raised in chilly Vermont. After getting married, I moved to SoCal, and now I’m in Texas with my Hub. My undergrad was in English and Theatre.
I look a lot younger than I am (I’ve been told 16 to 18) so I love makeup because I can make myself look a little older than my high school students! I also love experimenting with color, and I firmly believe that when women look good, they not only FEEL good, they are more confident. It’s amazing what a little lipstick can do! As a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant, I probably feed my makeup addiction more often than I should!
2. What do you do for a living?
High School English Teacher at a small, private school and Mary Kay Beauty Consultant
3. Tell me about your family.
I absolutely love my husband, who is amazing! My entire family back in Vermont is VERY French. I grew up with my parents, 3 sisters (one who recently passed away), my grandfather (Papere) and lots of furry critters. I am the oldest of four.
In Texas, it’s just me, my Hub and our two cats- Charlie and Smokey.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Read. write, blog, anything theatre related, anything makeup related, work out, sing, spend time with my husband and friends- and attempt to cook!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Friends would probably describe me as quiet (at first), and goofy. I’m a recovering pessimist, so I try to surround myself with POSITIVE people and things! I love life, and can’t wait to see what’s in store for me and my husband.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m a 32 year old female living in Atlanta, but I’m still a southern Cali girl at heart. I grew up in San Diego, and went to college and had my first job in Orange County.
I love make up, because it is like my one creative artistic expression that I get to invoke on a daily basis. It’s more practical and fun than pulling out an easil, canvas, and oil paints.
I used to habitually use the Chanel Variations eyeshadow quad for SIX YEARS! Then, one day, I looked at a picture of myself, and wanted to throw up, because I was just so sick of and over that look! So, I went to the total opposite end of the spectrum, and so started my make up craze. I downloaded MAC face charts, and tried to do them on my face which was great because I got to learn about uses for different brushes and products and techniques. I was secretly fantasizing that I could show up to my office day job with electric eel eye shadow and false lashes, but I knew that I couldn’t pull it off at work, so I did it on the weekends! Since then, I have now fallen somewhere more in the middle of the two extremes of the Chanel quad and the electric eel eyeshadow, and I’m playing with Bobbi Brown products. I NEVER thought I would do Bobbi Brown because I was so not into the neutral look, but she actually has alot of fun textures and sparkles and shimmers and glitters, but balances it out with a color pallete that is flattering and still works in an office setting.
2. What do you do for a living?
I work for a major telecommunications company in the corporate office dreaming up product enhancements to our high speed internet product, and then working with a bunch of people to make it happen. When I’m not busy doing that, and have a moment to spare, I’m reading the Make Up and Beauty Blog, and I’m busy dreaming about my next make up look and make up purchase, and how excited I will be to feel the product on my finger, on the brush, and on my skin.
3. Tell me about your family.
I have the most wonderful, handsome, supportive husband (I know that sounds cliche, but whatever, it’s true!), and the two most gorgeous kids – I girl who is two, and a boy who is almost four months old.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to watch Real Housewives of Orange County and realize what my life would have been like had I stayed in Orange County and not moved to Atlanta.
I love putting on my make up in the morning.
I love to go to lunch with my female collegues and talk about other people, and shopping, and hand bags, and sales, and of course – make up!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’ve lost a little bit of my fun adventuresome edge in my life as a working mom and wife, so I love to read the blog because, Karen, your sense of fun is one that I used to have in my younger years (even though I’m slightly younger than you as I’m still 32), but you still shine forth that quirky fun loving approach to life, and it’s a refreshing reminder of what I used to be, and what I want to bring back more of into my life. : )
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Melissa and I am 29. I was born in Nova Scotia, Canada but have moved around a lot in the last few years. I’m currently in Dallas, Texas. I’m not sure I love it here but I have a wonderful boyfriend so it makes it better.
I love makeup because like everyone else, I love trying new looks. I hate to look the same two days in a row. I am a product junkie and like you Karen, I am a sucker for packaging!
2. What do you do for a living?
I work in a pediatric genetics clinic as a genetic counselor. Basically, I explain genetic conditions to families usually testing, inheritance and prognosis. It is a very interesting job and I am constantly learning new things which I love.
3. Tell me about your family.
My parents are divorced and my father is remarried (to the mistress but we won’t go there :)). I have an older sister (10 y older) and an older brother (8y older). Ys, I was a big surprise to my parents when I came along. They each have 2 children. None for me yet but I am in a long term relationship.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I love to read! I enjoy fiction along with modern history. I have been experimenting with jewelry making but haven’t fully committed to that hobby yet. I enjoy shopping but I am working hard at paying off my student loans for the next year so that hobby is on the back burner.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I miss Canada so much at times but I don’t think my boyfriend is keen on moving there anytime soon.
I have a princess cat named Milo. She is 6 and is completely in love with me. lol. She is content to just sit there and stare at me for hours.
Hi Karen,
I’m absolutely devoted to your blog, and do not comment enough – so I thought I would join in on the fun here 🙂
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
I’m 31 and live in the Seattle area – been happily married for 5 years with a cat and dog. I love makeup for so many reasons! Mostly though, it gives me that special added confidence to tackle the world.
2. What do you do for a living?
I am the vice president of a local company, while tediously completing my last two months of my MBA program.
3. Tell me about your family.
My parents are both Filipino, yet I have never visited the Philippines!!! I grew up an only child, and now that I’m older – wish I had siblings! Overall, I’m happy to be a part of a loving and wonderful family. My husband, on the other hand, came from a family of 5. It has given me such a different perspective on family.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Of course I love to shop, shop, shop, read, play with my cat and dog, go to movies, work out, and hang with friends. I’m in that small segment of the population where I am married without kids, so my friends are either married with kids – or single and mingling!
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I am terrified of swimming, but promised my hubby I’d learn soon
I went to the NKOTB concert and will be seeing Britney in April (guilty pleasures)
I’m a stress case, but cannot show it in the office – so I stress lots at night
My dog always has a mohawk to keep up his stylish ways among his doggie friends
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
42YO, Philipino as well, live in Alaska. In my teens I was a total beauty mag & product fiend, got busy raising kids and for a variety of reasons I lost interest. Only recently got into collecting and wearing makeup. I cut my hair so short that I was being mistaken for a man. I’m growing it back out and regaining my chick status, at a minimum I wear concealer, mascara, blush, lipstick/gloss.
2. What do you do for a living?
IT department for a healthcare organization
3. Tell me about your family.
21 YO son, 20 YO daughter grown and moved out, great boyfriend I live with, Sybil the dog & Jumper the kitty. My daughter is also a makeup & perfume fanatic. Bought her the Coastal Scents 88 palette & UDPP for Christmas so she wouldn’t blow the little money she makes on MAC.
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
Watch a ton of sports, reading, movies, music, politics, beauty blogs.
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
In prep for Oscars, watching 11 nominated movies for best actor, actress, movie, and director right now. I have a rare find of a BF that has watched all 6 seasons of SATC (+ the movie) with me and now we’re on Season 2 of L-Word.
1. Tell me about yourself and why you love makeup.
My name is Kiana Jaedan and I am 17 years old ( I turn 18 on August 24 party time ;]) I’m reallllly weird and random but really outgoing. I’ve got an obsession with all things 80s ( Duran Duran anyone?) I just recently became infatuated with makeup and it’s all because of this blog….which by the way is my guilty pleasure. I live in AZ…WEST COAST!! I love makeup because of all the colors and different looks you can achieve from it well..that and the fact it makes me look awesome ;]
2. What do you do for a living?
Right now…nothing. But I’m attempting to be responsible and get and internship. I want to be an actor…not and actress…actor. Like every typical 17 no Plan B…yet ;] I really am yearing to move to Cali..why I don’t know…maybe because it reminds me of my home state Florida….
3. Tell me about your family.
I have 6 brothers and sisters…I’m the oldest so everything is riding on my shoulders…I’m a born/forced leader. I love them with all my heart…sometimes I think they are my heart. I have a mom…and a dad..who died 4 years ago…but thats a loooong somewhat unpleasant story. I am a living breathing melting pot. If fondue and cheese talked…well it would be me ;] Children are something that I havent really thought about…right now I have enough children on my hands!
4. What are a couple things you like to do in your spare time?
I like to (attempt) to dance.
I write…alot..poetry..music…scripts…you name it ;]
listen to music…and a lot of it.
Roam…I’m tabs in the human form ;]
5. Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I like food…foodie here
I want to learn how to surf
I have this dying urge to get a tattoos..well multiple tattoos.
I love wikipedia
I love Kojak the NightStalker…the old one.
I have a collection of T-shirts
you are too cute!!
Gina´s last blog post.."Fat", "Skinny"… How About Happy & Healthy?
Thanks ;]
I love the fact that you’re prolly the youngest crazy cat lady I’v ever heard of…that and the fact you went to shrek the musical…pure awesome-ness.