You might be wondering, “So what the heck is this Monday Poll thing anyway?”
Well, it isn’t much of a poll. It’s more just a constantly evolving (devolving?), somewhat random list of questions I’ve been putting out to readers every Monday morning for the past four years. I’ve always enjoyed reading your answers in the comments, and I hope you enjoy reading mine.
- Mood: Relaxed and focused, and I’m marshalling every ounce of my zen this week to keep it that way.
- What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?
Last week. I was wearing Chanel Coco Mademoiselle perfume, and when El Hub bear hugged me in the hallway, he said, “You and Tabs smell great!” Ha! Some of it had also rubbed off on Tabs. - Current obsessions?
Area rugs…Yes, area rugs.
No, wait! Let me explain… The floor in my dining room and kitchen is tiled and gets almost arctically cold, and now that I actually have a dining room table (matter of fact, I’m sitting at it right now!), a warm rug would really cozy things up.
I’m also totally obsessed with Gillian Flynn’s book, Gone Girl. I cannot put it down!
- Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
I want to go see Pitch Perfect at the movies. It looks rich in the kinds of good ol’ fashioned cheesy fun I like. 🙂 - What are some things that make you happy?
- A good pen
- Changing my scenery
- A cup of hot coffee or tea
- Sleeves with thumbholes
- El Hub
- Tabs
- It’s okay to _______.
- Pat yourself on the back
- Have chocolate for breakfast
- Try and fail
- What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been afraid of accidentally locking myself out of the house, so I always make sure to have my keys and phone in my right hand at the moment I walk out the door.Same thing goes for the car…
- What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
That I get more and more set in my ways as I get older. I keep having to push myself harder to try new things.Eh, I’m workin’ on it. 🙂
- Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
That I’ve yelled, “DON’T DRINK THAT!” to Tabs about 10 times already.We got our Christmas tree yesterday, which he, of course, thinks is for his own personal enrichment.
One of the things he keeps doing is drinking from the water in the tree stand, even though his water bowl is literally 10 feet away.
Cats!
- Weekly goals:
Just to keep hanging in there and doing my best to bring up the people around me (like you).
Hello, hello my friend!
Quick, while no one’s watching, let’s shake it out. Shake it out. Shake out any negativity, and focus on a happy thought (might I suggest shirtless Ryan Gosling and/or Jeremy Renner’s arms?).
Here, have a seat, and fill out the Monday Poll with me. I’ll be right back with a slice of toast for you with some pumpkin cream cheese on it.
To complete the Monday Poll, just copy the following list, and paste it with your answers in the comments.
Le List
1. Mood:
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?
3. Current obessions?
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
5. What are some things that make you happy?
6. It’s okay to _______.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
10. Weekly goals:
Look at you! Just a few hours into the week, and you’re already doing a great job. If anything gets you down this week, stop by the blog, and Tabs and I will try to cheer you up. 🙂
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
1. Mood: determined to finish all the work soon.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? this weekend, one older lady was admiring my skin – thanks to Omorovicza BB cream and BECCA cream blush.
3. Current obessions? my Kindle, Laura Mercier eye pencils and hot tea.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? write a tones of e-mails, among other things..
5. What are some things that make you happy? my friends, snow, good food, films and my Kindle.
6. It’s okay to _______. be lazy sometimes, ha.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?make sure I have my phone and mp3 player with me.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? good question. That I am capable of much more than I thought.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. It’s evening here already 🙂 I just came home, had a cup of tea with Twix.
10. Weekly goals: I work as a Makeup Artist in my free time, so my main goal is to squeeze as many appointments as I can this month. A lot of girls want to be pretty for the holiday parties 🙂
1. Mood: Feeling good emotionally but a little under the weather physically. I’m going to try to get to the gym though to follow your advice and “shake it out”! Ha!
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? I found an old Kiehl’s lip gloss while cleaning out some old purses to donate and I wore it to breakfast on Saturday. Hubby said that he liked my lip gloss.
3. Current obsessions?
Vapire Diaries, as always, and the Mindy Project on Fox. I’m a TV junkie. Also Le Creuset cookware. I love my dutch oven and now I want to get all they different pots, pans and ovens. Unfortunately I don’t have enough room in my little kitchen.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
I still need to finish cleaning out my closets. We worked on the basement over the weekend and made a ton of progress in decluttering but I still have a ways to go!
5. What are some things that make you happy?
A good book with a fire in the fireplace, my puppies and a pot of soup bubbling on the stove.
6. It’s okay to _______.
Take a day off. Mental health days are important! I have some friends who feel guilty about taking a day to relax and they usually end up pushing themselves until they get sick or are beyond stressed out. Your body will thank you!
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
Make sure all the doors are locked and the stove/oven is off. We have a gas range and sometimes if you bump into the knobs they turn on just a little bit so I always double check.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
That you should do what makes you happy even if other people don’t get it. I quit a job that was a terrible fit and was very different than I’d been told in the interview after only a month there but it was making me miserable. I got a lot of flack from people who thought I should stick it out longer but I knew it was never going to work and didn’t want to waste anyone’s time, including my own!
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
I had cinnamon toast and a glass of milk for breakfast while I watched Real Housewives of Miami. Now I’m trying to psych myself up for the gym.
10. Weekly goals:
Clean out my closet, go to bed earlier (no more reading until midnight) and take my vitamins.
1. Mood: Nervous but hopeful.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? My mom complimented me on my makeup two weeks ago.
3. Current obsessions? When my Sephora package is coming in, haha.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Finish my last two papers for school.
5. What are some things that make you happy? My kitties, knitting, Law and Order SVU, getting (good) mail.
6. It’s okay to _______. Cry, stress, sleep in.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? My makeup.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? How much I can handle, that I actually CAN get straight A’s.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. It was really, really busy, and then really, really boring.
10. Weekly goals: Finish those papers, knock out two knitting projects, finish Christmas shopping, decorate my apartment.
A good pen! Definitely one of those little things in life that make such a huge difference!
As always I adore these polls, so here goes mine!
1. Mood: Really good! Finished my exams, being very productive today, and seeing some friends tonight! Today is a great day!
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? Hmm.. I think the other day I got told I have nice rosy cheeks, which is definitely thanks to whatever blush I was wearing.
3. Current obsessions? Nail polish (as always), and recently I am really into blushes and Benefit Cosmetics. And loose tea!
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Actually today I started something that I had been planning on for months and months now. Its a spreadsheet of every nail polish I own!
5. What are some things that make you happy? A good pen, like Karen said. And my two kitties. Anything Dallas Cowboys. My family, my friends, my makeup.
6. It’s okay to _______. Cry sometimes. And eat dessert for dinner.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Check to see if my cats are locked in any bedrooms.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I’m more fit than I thought I was.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. I had a delicious vanilla caramel iced coffee this morning.
10. Weekly goals: Get at least halfway through my spreadsheet!
Work slows down in December for me, too. It’s fun for a few days but then I get bored and start to resent the fact that I have to come in the office at all. So, trying to be productive (when I’m not reading blogs!).
1. Mood: A little frazzled. Went to the post office at lunch and the line was ridiculous. Also, the shoppers seem to be out in full force cuz the traffic was terrible.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? A few weeks ago when I wore my Chanel Malice nail polish for the first time.
3. Current obessions? Sonoma Scent Studios Winter Woods perfume (just perfect when it’s chilly); Laura Mercier’s Caviar Stick in Jungle (not mine yet, but it’s a matter of time) and finally, Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Cashew Brittle with Sea Salt (’nuff said).
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Purging my closet – I try to do it twice a year.
5. What are some things that make you happy? My son’s laugh, a hot bath, a “Seinfeld” moment.
6. It’s okay to _______. Be silly. It’s liberating.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Check for my phone.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I can be patient – but, it takes practice!
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. For fear of dropping dead from licking inferior envelopes (like Susan in Seinfeld), I sealed all my Christmas cards with a damp sponge, LOL!
10. Weekly goals: Take photos of my wardrobe so I can do my purging digitally; Deep clean my kitchen; Clear out my office at work to be ready for the new year and maybe change the decor.
1. Mood: bored.. wishing it was the weekend so i could be productive
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? last week, due to smashbox’s wonderful primer!
3. Current obessions? online shopping… okay, i never actually buy anything online… but it saves me from extreme overload when i go into the store.. i usually forget what i needed as soon as i walk in..
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? GET A PEDICURE!!! ugh
5. What are some things that make you happy? new makeup, new perfume, new clothes, and my dogs
6. It’s okay to _______.
-take a 24 hour nap to make up for all the sleep you lost during the work week.
-survive on coffee
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? use the sticky dog-hair-collector thingy.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? that i am actually a lot more opinionated than i originally suspected. and most of the time i am right 😉
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
i did the unthinkable… came to work with NO makeup on. because its monday. no one likes mondays.
10. Weekly goals:
-be positive
-CLEAN MY CLOSET
-continue being productive
1. Mood: Quite good, had a nice weekend and took today off to do some christmas shopping with my mom.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? Last week, I was told by a colleague that I look about 10 years younger (thank you Skinceuticals Hydrating B5)
3. Current obsessions? Audio books, and Bobbi Brown cosmetics.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Cleaning up my basement. It is a long room and the christmas decoration is at the far end, so I did a very lean deco job this year. But I will do this next year, by the end of February.
5. What are some things that make you happy?
Where should I start: Chocolate, coffee, a call from a friend, a smile from a stranger, my niece….
6. It’s okay to _______. not read a book till the end if it is boring.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Check if my windows are closed.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I can do Zumba and shake my hips, and I can delegate work.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
I had breakfast with my mom at my favourite restaurant and did some shopping with her after that.
10. Weekly goals: Get at least 6h of sleep at night, don’t drink alcohol (still suffering from the office party last week) and stay cool and organized in this crazy weeks.
Have a great week everyone!
1. Mood: well, not so good
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? Thanks to a very bright red lipstick ( Bourjois jet set rouge )
3. Current obessions? the Holiday collection Kiko palette ( 16 very pretty eyeshadows )
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Funding my ( small ) sanctuary for ill-treated pets and animals, it’s a thing I have to do !
5. What are some things that make you happy? Calling a close friend who is very funny and makes me laugh, my cat of course and sleeping
6. It’s okay to believe in some important things in life_______.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Well I try ( said try lol ) to leave the apartment clean and mint but it’s not so easy with a Persian cat !
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I learned that I was capable to become semi-vegetarian, and an activist for animal welfare and environment. I have to get better much better though
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. Well, a normal morning in fact, I just ate a yoghourt at breakfast and drank an orange juice that’s it !
10. Weekly goals: Honestly ? Resting and not thinking about Christmas
1. Mood: Content. Better than stressed for finals week.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? Friday, I was out shopping with my mom and mother in law and someone was obsessing over my red curls from Kinky Curly Curling Custard.
3. Current obessions? Chai tea latte with eggnogg; my KCCC
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Figuring out what to take for the cheese plate for girls weekend
5. What are some things that make you happy? Sleeping in, my animals sleeping on me
6. It’s okay to fall over as long as you get back up
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Make sure I have my DevaCurl Set It Free in my bag. It refreshes my curls and tames frizz on dry or damp from the rain hair.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I am an amazing cook.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. My nephew was born, and we’re heading to the hospital in a bit to see my brother, his wife, and the new baby.
10. Weekly goals: Visit my nephew, study for my remaining final, create a cheese plate for girls weekend, and not drink as much as I did last year for girls weekend.
1. Mood:
Anxious and sad. Mingy has been having litter box aversion issues for a while. He’s at the vet today getting tested to rule out any physical issues. If it’s behavioral, it may be harder to fix.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?
My husband complimented me on my perfume. Vivara by Emilio Pucci.
3. Current obessions?
Hand lotion. My skin is so dry this winter.
Boots. I’m looking for the perfect pair of black, flat/low-heeled boots to take to London.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
Bake come cookies. I’ve been craving some chocolate chip cookies. Maybe it’s a good thing I haven’t gotten around to it yet!
5. What are some things that make you happy?
Cats that use the litter box. With Mingy’s problems lately, I would be so happy if that was resolved.
Warm towels fresh out of the dryer.
Sunday night TV shows.
6. It’s okay to _______.
Have a good cry sometimes.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
Say bye to the kitties. 🙂
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
That I’m able to keep going and perservere through rough times.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
I found some Swiss Miss Mint Chocolate packets at the store and had some at work this morning. It wasn’t as decadent as the Candy Cane Hot Chocolate from Tim Horton’s, but it helped give me my fix. 🙂
10. Weekly goals:
Just take it day by day. I’m worried about Mingy. If he’s having behavioral issues due to stress from the two other cats in the house, I would hate to think of having to rehome him.
Have a good Monday! Hopefully I can report back with good news on the Mingy front. 🙂
1. Mood: Content, mostly. Not very content about how cold it is in this office.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? A few weeks ago when BF’s aunt told me how nice my skin is — I can credit a good foundation and knowing how to blend.
3. Current obessions? Essie’s Beyond Cozy. I don’t have it (yet) but I can’t stop lusting over it.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Give myself an at-home pedi.
5. What are some things that make you happy? Kitty snuggles, sushi, and sparkly nails.
6. It’s okay to _______. Say “no” to things.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Tell Ilsa (the cat), “Be good!”
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I actually like writing. Who knew?!
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. I didn’t have ANY coffee. Just water and hot chocolate. I need some caffeine now.
10. Weekly goals: Gym at least 3 times, finish knitting the scarf that never ends, bake something nommy.
1. Mood: Tired
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? Last week someone complimented my skin which I get a lot… Mario Badescu is my secret. And good genes.
3. Current obessions? Jouer makeup. Josie Maran anything. That Zella hoodie that you posted about and I completely ordered.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Hmmm…. nothing. I’m very motivated!
5. What are some things that make you happy? My son. My husband and food. Not in that order.
6. It’s okay to SPLURGE – in moderation. ugh! The moderation sucks but is necessary.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Lip Gloss. Check it and add more.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I’m still, after 15 years, very much in love with my husband. We had to separate during Hurricane Sandy and it was very hard for me to be so separate from him.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. I love Coffee!
10. Weekly goals: Lose 1 lb!
I haven’t responded to one of these in forever, but I could use a good introspection today, thanks for e-being-there, Karen and the Monday questionaire!
1. Mood:
Sleepy. I’ve been migraining a lot lately and I’m either all sleep or none at all.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?
Yesterday! I was wearing Guerlain’s Turandot quad and it looks just fabulous on me – I like how it forces me to do a low contrast look when I’m usually prone to a weebit more drama. Anyways got tons of compliments, it really does suit me well!
3. Current obessions?
Getting the house clean. I filed papers for six hours yesterday, consolidating mine with the husband’s. It was grueling but it feels a lot better to have it done.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
See above? 🙂 I have a bunch of technical manuals from work I want to study but keep putting off in favor of other projects and Xcom. 🙂
5. What are some things that make you happy?
Time with my husband and friends.
A cold beer and the above friends.
Driving out to the middle of nowhere and enjoying the scenery.
6. It’s okay to _______.
Talk about it.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
I hate wearing pants around the house, so there’s *that* that I always need to take care of… 🙂
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
I’m way less in touch with my feelings that I thought I was, we’re talking remedial action that needs to be done here. And holy crap I hear you about getting older and less flexible, I’ve gained a whole lot more don’t-give-a-damn but also a whole lot more don’t-want-to-bother-with-it as I’ve gotten older.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
I had to come in and work extra yesterday, about half a day, so it feels like midweek already. I’ve got lots of interesting work to do tho, so I hope it passes quickly.
10. Weekly goals:
Keep my focus up at work, get all my workouts in, ROLL OVER MY DAMN IRAS. Seriously, one of these has been just sittin’ around for yeeeeeearrs.
I got my husband to read a post from this blog last week, one about personal growth that really resonated with some issues he’s been having; I often read posts he forwards me from gaming blogs but it was the first time I’d been able to share something from a beauty blog with him and have him get why I spend time here, which was lovely!
I’ll go see Pitch Perfect with you. Just say when…
1. Mood: restless
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? My friend told me that my MU looked good particularly my complexion. Thank you Clairsonic, Philosophy’s PMS & Nars Tinted Moisturizer.
3. Current obessions? DavidsTea, wasabi flavored roasted seaweed & anything candy cane tasting/smelling.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Organized my desk. It’s a freaking mess.
5. What are some things that make you happy? Besides the obvious, reading is something that makes me happy. It takes me away from it all for a bit & I really enjoy that. Also music which is something that I can’t live without.
6. It’s okay to _______. Cry.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Check that the stove is off and that the front door is locked. We leave my house through our carport & rarely use the front door so i always check it just in case. Same for the stove.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? That things I thought impossible are possible with hard work and dedication.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. I had an umpteenth phone interview today. I am hoping for a call back.
10. Weekly goals: start week 6 of my half marathon training plan, to not over indulge at my friend’s party on Friday and to keep a positive frame of mind.
1. Mood: sleepy/optimistic
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? I would say within the last few weeks – I had a good picture moment from my trip to Disney (hello Magic Kingdom!), and I was wearing MUFE that day 🙂
3. Current obessions? The Laura Mercier Artist’s Palette For Eyes and an Indian show that just went off the air
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Laundry.
5. What are some things that make you happy? Music, rain/thunderstorms, and good company.
6. It’s okay to *step away and take a break*.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Check my purse for my wallet, keys, and phone.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I’m a lot more like other people than I thought I was.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. I had to sleep in; we had work going on until about 2 AM x_x
10. Weekly goals: Catch up on all outstanding email. Every last one.
1. Mood: Worried!
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? People often comment on my hair color. All thanks to henna 🙂
3. Current obessions? I’m obsessed with eyelid primers at the moment!
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Sell my car. Which is kind of a big thing, lol.
5. What are some things that make you happy? Seeing my boyfriend smile.
6. It’s okay to feel tipsy after one of two glasses of wine.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Check if the all the lights are out.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I CAN let go of things… 🙂
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. Morning? It’s almost bed time here! 😉
10. Weekly goals: Help my boyfriend get ready for his trip to Switzerland, take my brother’s girlfriend out for a girls night out, and go out with an old friend. Oh, and I should probably also work a bit 😉
1. Mood:
ok
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?
I honestly can’t remember lol
3. Current obessions?
My Kindle and Supernatural.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
Cleaning up my room. It’s a mess!
5. What are some things that make you happy?
My boyfriend, makeup, good books
6. It’s okay to _______.
Cry sometimes.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
Check that the front door is locked.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
That I can achieve anything I put my mind to.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
It’s 10 pm here! Almost time to go to bed!
10. Weekly goals:
Do some Christmas shopping.
1. Mood: Tired! One more week until the semester ends!
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? I get a lot of compliments on my skin – thankful to my Tri Derma Redness Repair moisturizer, Simple Soothing Eye Balm, CeraVe Cleanser, and BB Cream.
3. Current obsessions? This Missha Signature BB Cream in 13 (light milky beige) – very pale, stays on throughout the day, sunscreen, antioxidants, and it doesn’t seem to break me out.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? I want to see Pitch Perfect too! I’ve also been meaning to clean up the apartment a bit, but I’m waiting for the semester to end (three glorious weeks off!)
5. What are some things that make you happy? My furbabies, the post-bath period where I slather myself in moisturizers, and naps.
6. It’s okay to _______. Say no! And I’m definitely okay with chocolate for breakfast.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Put shoes on? Haha.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I’m much stronger than I think I am!
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. Rice Chex and almond milk for breakfast, mmm.
10. Weekly goals: GET THROUGH FINALS. And also figure out what to bring as a dish to pass for the office holiday party.
Omg, I haven’t done a Monday Poll in forever!
1. Mood: I’m calm…which is needed when you’ve got finals and other end-of-semester tasks for the next week-and-a-half!
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?
I wore blue eyeliner (UD’s 24/7 Liner in Binge) the other day that two housemates complimented on, saying that many people can’t pull it off. I disagree (yes, you CAN pull it off), but I appreciate their sentiment. 🙂
3. Current obsessions?
Beauty-wise: I’m always brows-loony, but my HG Anastasia Brow Wiz has been making my brows look THE BOMB. I’ve just been really pleased with them lately. Also, I have China Glaze Glittering Garland on my paws. It’s one of the most elegant, stunning, winter-appropriate colors I’ve ever seen.
Everything else: I’ve never touched coffee, but in the last few weeks, I’ve resorted to drinking cappuccinos/mochas everyday. I’ll cut this obsession after finals end, I swear.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
Exercise. Oh gosh, I’m so bad…
5. What are some things that make you happy?
Currently: a really great mani (see above); SALES (I just scored 5 VS panties FOR $18, YO); goofing off with friends about dumb things; hugs.
6. It’s okay to _______.
take time off for yourself when you need it.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
Same: keys, phone, AND LIP BALM!
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
This is a great question that I don’t have an immediate answer to! I will think about this!
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
My group met this morning to prepare for a final marketing presentation we have Friday. It’s been blood, sweat, and tears all semester, so we’re anxious and excited! We’ve gotten positive feedback all semester, so I know we will kill this prez.
10. Weekly goals: Take all studying tasks one. At. A time. My first final is Wednesday. Stay relaxed and focused, indeed.
Tabs wants a seasonally flavored beverage too, Karen.
1. Mood:
Antsy. My wedding is less than two weeks away. Trying to get me focused on anything other than wedding plans or makeup shopping is not working.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?
I finally got a compliment on my eyes! I dressed up a little bit for my company’s holiday party and put on L’Oreal Infallible Golden Emerald eyeshadow and black liquid eyeliner. Usually compliments are for my lipstick or my nail polish.
3. Current obsessions?
Long sleeve tunics, tights, and warm shoes. Scarves whenever possible. And ramen. All sorts of ramen. It is COLD up in the Bay Area!
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
Cleaning up my apartment. My fiance made it mandatory to clean our place ceiling to floor this weekend. He’s going to find my secret makeup hiding holes from my recent Sephora sprees! D:
5. What are some things that make you happy?
My fiance
My niece and nephew
The throw blanket gifted by my fiance’s work
Cooking and baking
Gift giving (Yeah that commercial about The Gifter? That’s me.)
(related) Gift wrapping and packaging gifts for the mail
Watching Clueless. Cher STILL has the best wardrobe program ever.
6. It’s okay to _______.
…sing loud enough in the car for your lane neighbors to hear.
…say ‘thank you’ to the random homeless man/drunk that wolf whistled you while you walked by.
…be the one in the movie theater with the most obnoxious laugh.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
Put on perfume. Perfume is a new thing for me. For a long time it was scented lotions. Then I realized the lotions would sometimes make me sweat more when it’s hot out or when I’m really going to be running around.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
I maintained zen calm during some very trying life situations.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
Chocolate truffle coffee creamer is for real. My coffee is somewhere between coffee and hot chocolate in flavor. You can get it at Safeway.
10. Weekly goals:
* Mail off last round of Secret Santa presents to make international deadlines for Christmas delivery.
* Triple check my bags before I fly off for my wedding. (It took me almost an hour yesterday to decide on what makeup to pack. So many colors and looks!)
* Break in my awesome party booties before my bachelorette party.
* Get the apartment bathroom so clean you could sleep in the bathtub.
1. Mood: exhausted but happy–I’m pretty confident that I did well on my final this morning! 😀
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? My sister told me one morning that my skin looked really good. I had just started using Caudalie’s Creme Sorbet at the time 🙂
3. Current obessions? Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf’s Jasmine Dragon Soy Latte (I’m literally addicted. It’s all I ever think about :P) , Essie’s holiday 2012 collection, and Burberry palettes (I don’t own any yet but I will soon enough!! :D)
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Work out :/
5. What are some things that make you happy? my dog, Morrissey, Jasmine Dragon Soy Lattes (see?! :P), family and boyfriend
6. It’s okay to _______. be a little behind–better late than never!
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Give my dog a kiss!
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? That I can be studious!! 😛
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. It was good–I had 1 last final and I think I did well!
10. Weekly goals: catch up on sleep, work out, relax!
1. Mood: Eh, I’ve been better. Had a bad weekend.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? I was complimented on my skin today, and I’m sick, so I know it’s gotta be my Laura Mercier illuminating foundation primer, Boing concealer, a light dusting of Bare Minerals in medium beige, and a nice swipe of Benefit blush in Sugarbomb.
3. Current obessions? What I’m getting for Christmas! It’s not that I want a lot, I just don’t like surprises and everyone knows it, so they like to tease me about it.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Change my life. Kind of a big one, but I’m done being unhappy!
5. What are some things that make you happy? Starbucks, scarves, dogs, makeup, and random acts of kindness.
6. It’s okay to _______. Dance in the rain, make mistakes, take risks, and go big.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Kiss my dog goodbye 🙂
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?I’m a mature soul, I’m an ENFJ, and I need to relax and enjoy life.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. My husband is sick, and he is easily the whiniest person ever! 🙂
10. Weekly goals: Workout 5 times on the elliptical and do yoga twice.
1. Mood: I am relaxed and focused as well!
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? Well I just got my hair done yesterday and I got it dyed! I don’t know if that counts but my boyfriend said it was really pretty!
3. Current obsessions? Bumble and Bumble products.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Sweep the floor.
5. What are some things that make you happy? My boyfriend and my cats.
6. It’s okay to _______. Leave dirty dishes in the sink?
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Check my pockets for my phone.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? Hmm… I don’t know.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. My morning was extremely busy.
10. Weekly goals: To work out 6 times this week.
1. Mood:
~Sleepy and hungry. Waiting for the fiance to get home from work.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?
~I don’t always wear makeup to work because I literally sweat it off during the day from running around. Recently I did eye makeup for work, and I got tons of compliments! Laura Mercier eyeliner in Stormy Grey was a huge hit with my coworkers.
3. Current obsessions?
~Music (anything from 80’s Rock to the new hits from the Dance/Pop radio stations)
~Doing laundry (having great smelling detergent and fabric softener really makes it a lot more fun).
~Pinterest – has been giving me good workouts and motivation for getting back into things since I injured my shoulder.
~Yoga – working on inversions and arm balances is tough but worth it for the health benefits. Plus, I get a great laugh at myself!
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
~Make sure my address is changed at other places besides the MVA.
5. What are some things that make you happy?
~Yoga, running, a good power lifting/plyometric session, a hot cup of coffee/tea/hot chocolate, warm blankets on cold rainy days, doing new things with the fiance, a good hike/trail run in the mountains, the smell of fresh Christmas trees/wreaths, and comfy hooded sweatshirts.
6. It’s okay to _______.
~not be tough ALL the time. To spend a day vegging out watching your favorite shows. To be hooked on various reality TV shows. To stay in bed all morning and read (especially if it’s a rare opportunity). To get takeout food when you’re tired from cleaning or have worked hard. To wonder and worry about the future. To worry a lot only to find out everything worked out, as usual. To get upset/frustrated at the really big things in life, and also some little things as well. To take time for yourself. To care so much about health/fitness that you are proud to show off to the world what you’ve learned.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
~I also always check to make sure I have my keys and purse – I also do this before locking and leaving my car! Locking your keys in your car one time will do it for being careful every other time.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
~I learned that I am tougher than I think and that I can do things I didn’t think I could do.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
~Slept in, Dad changed the oil in my car for me today and checked other things on it :), and did cleaning this afternoon.
10. Weekly goals:
~Make sure paperwork is together so I can send it to one of the departments I’m applying to.
~Get birthday/Christmas presents for the fiance, since his birthday is this Friday.
~Get back into tough and rewarding workouts.
~Get into the habit of running every day no matter what and varying the workouts.
1. Mood: Good. I was sick as a dog last week and I feel so much better! Work was pretty good too.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? During the summer I had on a foundation and everyone was like wow your skin looks so great!
3. Current obessions? Tarte Amazonian Clay foundation, Jack Black lip balm, and Bliss hand cream. They are all so great!
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Apparently it’s been laundry since I am now doing doing a million loads!
5. What are some things that make you happy? Good food, laughing, smiling, see my hubby.
6. It’s okay to _______. Make mistakes. That’s how you learn people.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Say a prayer for safe travels and a good day.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I can be a leader and I have a lot more knowledge than I think.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. I had a really good cup of coffee from my Keurig. So worth the money!
10. Weekly goals: Finish laundry (which is happening right now), finish my final paper for my class, finish Christmas shopping.
Have a great week everyone!
1. Mood: Happy, had a coffee date with my BFF, always a good thing!
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? I am wearing a silver China Glaze nail polish, Cheers to you, and got a ton of compliments from my kids’ teachers and friends at their school today.
3. Current obessions? Silver nail polish, coconut scented bath products, our Elf on a Shelf (Amos), and Peppermint Mochas from Starbucks, and having my back scratched.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Start doing some yoga in the mornings. I never think about it until the evenings, and I really want to do it in the mornings to get my blood flowing.
5. What are some things that make you happy? Coffee, new bottles of nail polish, volunteering in my kids’ classrooms, having two Christmas trees, scented candles, doodling in my sketch book.
6. It’s okay to _______. Have the sense of humor of a 10 year old! “Spell Mississippi backwards”, “Spell i cup”, “What’s your first name, what color is the sky, what’s the opposite of down, put those answers in order”, I find them all hilarious!
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? I make sure the front door is locked.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I am more patient than I thought, and I am a pro at budgeting!
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. I had coffee with my BFF, seriously we’ve been friends for 32 years, we’re 37 years old! And three hours feels like 10 minutes. Heaven!
10. Weekly goals: Get some workouts in, find some crafty things for the kids to do next week when they’re on Christmas vacation, put bows on the Christmas presents, figure out a protein shake that isn’t too sweet and doesn’t gross me out!
1. Mood:
Not bad.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?
I get compliments on my hair color all the time, and like Kiss & Make-Up, it’s all the henna. I love how my greys turn into strawberry highlights. 🙂
3. Current obessions?
Pinterest: so much fun stuff out there
Making my own cleansing oil
Trader Joe’s amazing brittle with chocolate… don’t even remember the name, but I can’t wait to get more…
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?
Christmas cards…will probably become Chinese New Year’s cards.
Cleaning before I leave town… too late now.
5. What are some things that make you happy?
My kitties! My husband acting goofy. A good book.
6. It’s okay to _______.
Read fluff fiction. Wear bright colors. Have wrinkles.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
Make sure I have my keys and my phone.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?
That the languages I learned in school are still in my head somewhere.. and I can use them if I need to… although sometimes the wrong language pops out… French instead of Spanish or Chinese instead of Korean.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.
I got to the airport on time. Security was pretty easy. And my boss called me while I was waiting for the plane b/c he couldn’t find the document files… at least I know he’ll miss me. 🙂
10. Weekly goals:
Stay warm; it’s FREEZING in Nashville and after years in SoCal, I no longer have anti-freeze…
Stay sane and eat some good Southern ribs while I’m here!
This time next week, I’ll be in Tel Aviv!
1. Mood: SO relieved. My chubby Russian blue got really sick last week, and after 4 days in the hospital, he is all happy and healthy <3
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product?: Today! On my lipstick.
3. Current obessions?: Hand lotion. Winter means dry hands.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet?: So much!
5. What are some things that make you happy?: My chubby cat when he's healthy.
6. It’s okay to _______.: Nap.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?: Wet my hands with cool water and pat my face. It might seem silly, but it's refreshing, sets my makeup (at least I think it does), and makes it look a bit more natural.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year?: How much I can do if I really put my mind to it.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far.: Drank way too much coffee!
10. Weekly goals: so many meetings to finish up the semester!
1. Mood:Romantic, bout to meet my Fiancee in an hr
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? Yesterday when I wore my new Revlon Lipbutter in Cherry Tart, my fiancee was like wow u’re lips look quite edible 😛
3. Current obessions? New launchec in Makeup n Skincare, Spicy Roasted Chicken n hoarding colourful winter wear
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Finish writing my book
5. What are some things that make you happy? Spending quality time with my grandparents, Eating with street kids n watch ’em giggle when they share their daily stories, playing wid animals n cooking for family n friends.
6. It’s okay to _______ forget the deepest hurt or loss n move on
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Check my car/bike keys, celphone, netbook, pen n wallet
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I can forgive the person who cause lot of pain n grief n still be friends.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. Make Idlis(rice cakes) n chutney for the entire family + ginger tea, my fav
10. Weekly goals: To get rid of my bronchitis that’s plagued me for more than 20 days n resume my workout sessions.
Le List
1. Mood: {Tired. The holidays wear me out. I’m sure I’ll feel better tonight after yoga.]
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? [Well my boss said I looked nice for our holiday party (wore boots and a sweater dress) but I would not say that was due to a product. The Origins GinZing eye shadow probably helped a little.]
3. Current obsessions? [The fact that we don’t have a nice layer of snow yet. I use it for excuses for everything. “Can’t burn off this vat of cookies, no snow yet.”]
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? [mail my holiday cards]
5. What are some things that make you happy? [warm fleece. Just got a new hoodie from Moosejaw that I did not need but it’s fantastic. Finally a hoodie I can wear to warm up at the gym without it bunching up and looking sloppy. Fashion first!]
6. It’s okay to _______. [sleep in and not shower before work…no one is going to know]
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? [make coffee in the Keurig and put it in my travel mug…I really dig the porcelain mugs with the rubber top. I’ll never go back to another style of mug. The coffee helps me to be alert to deal with the horrible drivers in and around Boston]
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? [how important my ‘buffer days’ are…the day before a conference or meeting where I fly to whatever city. I need that extra day in case my flights go horribly wrong. Or if the weather goes horribly wrong in the case of the hurricane before I flew to Chicago or the snow storm before I flew to Minneapolis]
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. [There was a giant vat of cookies and I did not eat any…we’ve been getting edible gifts at work for the past few weeks]
10. Weekly goals: [to make sure to workout each day I’m home. To catch up with old friends at a holiday get together that I have not seen in 1 year!!]
1. Mood: COLD! But happy and cozy in a warm sweater.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? The hubs said my lipstick was pretty yesterday. It was Outrageously Fun by MAC.
3. Current obessions? The Outlander series, persimmons, purple anything.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Organize the middle room, also known as the stash it there room.
5. What are some things that make you happy? My hubs, my fur family, hot cocoa on a cold day, shopping alone.
6. It’s okay to _______. Do nothing sometimes; cry if you feel like it; people watch (as long as you remain unobtrusive).
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Kiss my boys.
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? That im a homebody.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. Its been pretty chill.
10. Weekly goals: I am done w/ goals for the rest of the year. 😀
Looks like my first one did not stick. Here’s a second try:
1. Mood: [Tired. The holidays wear me out]
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? [On Friday before our work holiday party my boss said I looked nice. I was wearing boots and a sweater dress but it may have had something to do with my new GinZing eyeshadow by Origins (in a silvery green)]
3. Current obsessions? [The lack of snow in New England at this point. We had no snow last winter and I know it is technically still fall but I’m using it for excuses lately. “I can’t eat the giant vat of cookies because there’s no snow to ski in”]
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? [mail my Christmas and Hanukkah cards]
5. What are some things that make you happy? [Snow days. A warm kitty under the blanket on the couch while I read. 3 day weekends.]
6. It’s okay to _______. [head to work without a shower to get some extra sleep. No one is going to know.]
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? [Make a cup of coffee on my Keurig. Goes into a porcelain travel mug. Best travel mug style ever.]
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? [that I really do need that ‘buffer day’ before a conference or work meeting when traveling. You NEVER know what the airlines will do to you. They may even leave you stranded in the middle of the night with a plane full of strangers having to drive all night in a rental car to make an 8am meeting–true story]
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. [I resisted a plate of cookies. The sun *finally* came out and is streaming in my office window.]
10. Weekly goals: [see friends I have not seen in 1 year at a holiday get together. Go to my Dad’s retirement party (yay!). Make sure to workout each night that I’m home]
whoops it did stick. Weird!
1. Mood: heavy hearted. A very good friend/co-worker suddenly passed and it’s been very difficult to deal.
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? Last Friday, I used a different highlighter and kept getting comments about how “glowy” I looked. Big ups to theBalm mary-lou manizer for that!
3. Current obessions? Nail art…just received a set from a friend of mine for my bday so I’m a little excited! =)
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Purge/donate my youngest’s newborn/infant clothes. I get too emotional but I know I have to do it.
5. What are some things that make you happy? My boys, good cup of coffee, a good and moist cupcake, channing tatum without a shirt
6. It’s okay to _______. cry <–not something I do very much and never in public…up until recently.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? check if i have my phone, keys, wallet and lip balm. I tend to change purses frequently so things can kind of "disappear".
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I'm more of a leader than I give myself credit for. I fell into a leadership role by circumstance and have gotten such positive feedback about how well i've done this year….i didn't know i had it in me.
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. Yesterday was really tough…helped pack up my co-worker's desk for her kids. Today is my birthday but I'm not too happy…thankful that I've made it another year and that I'm blessed but I miss her something awful.=*(
10. Weekly goals: I didn't meet my goal last week of finishing up the financial structure so I hope to get that done today, tomorrow at the latest. And to put a smile on my face and enjoy today.
Karen, I just gotta say I love you and I don’t even know you. I know I’m a day late with this posting, so you probably won’t read this but in case you do, you seem like a wonderful person and I appreciate everything you share with your readers, treating us like friends instead of random people thousands of miles away. I am having a very stressful time in an otherwise blessed life (just before Christmas too, BOOO!). This post made me smile and it really felt like a hug. Thank you!!!!!
Le List
1. Mood: relaxed
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? someone told me my skin was really beautiful, the day after I did a Freeman Chocolate Strawberry mud mask. I love that stuff!
3. Current obessions? Tarte eyecatchers set! and Nars easy lover lip pencil. and China Glaze Make a spectacle. and Peppermint oreos. and Charlie Brown tv specials. and Savannah, GA.
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? my laundry and hanging my paintings
5. What are some things that make you happy? my husband, my kitties, makeup, good books, peppermint coffee, red velvet anything, sex and the city, Marie Claire magazine, a good card game and baking.
6. It’s okay to _______. say NO to things and put yourself first.
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house?
grab my purse!
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I really like coffee!
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. its been a long day!
10. Weekly goals: relax and be happy.
1. Mood: freezing! Haha
2. What was the last time you received a compliment you can credit to a beauty product? Last Friday! Thanks to my perfume: Fame by Lady Gaga
3. Current obessions? Cleaning my room 😐 haha it’s a total cat fur mess!
4. Something you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet? Do laundry xD
5. What are some things that make you happy? Music, family, friends, makeup
6. It’s okay to read before 11 pm LOL
7. What’s one thing you always do before leaving the house? Check if I carry enerything I’ll need
8. What’s something surprising you learned about yourself this year? I’m quite strong
9. Tell me something — anything — about your morning so far. It’s kind of cold but quiet.
10. Weekly goals: going to Tucson yaaay