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 six years. I’ve always enjoyed reading your answers in the comments, and I hope you enjoy reading mine.
- Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
My mom, after watching Airport 66, named me after the actress Karen Black. Mom thought Karen Black was “sexy,” and plus it wasn’t a common name in the Philippines at the time. It was either that name or Stephanie, and I’m so not a Stephanie. - If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
A really, really, really tan Reese Witherspoon with her hair died black or dark brown. She would play me. Ryan Gosling would obviously have to play El Hub. Obvs. 🙂 Even though the two look nothing alike, haha! But still.The thing is, Detective Unstabler (Chistopher Meloni) would be perfect for the part, but in the end the casting agent (Tabs) would go with Ryan Gosling, and speaking of Tabs, he would play himself…because he’s multitalented like that.
- Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Yes. The last time, I think, was high school graduation. That’s when my academic career peaked. It was all downhill from there… - When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
It was at Anthrolopologie last weekend when I was looking at those dog heads. I thought, I want one that looks like Shauna, and I remembered how Shauna would look up at me and give me that goofy smile, and I got kind of teary at Anthropologie looking at dog heads… - What’s your worst quality?
It’s hard to choose from all of them. I don’t mean to sound like I have low self-esteem, but this is a tough one for me right now. Hmm… I beat myself up. I talk to myself in ways that should not be allowed. Maybe that’s my worst quality. - What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
It’s this one by René Furterer (I can never say her name) called Karité. It’s a deep conditioning hair mask, and it works great and doesn’t weigh down my hair. - Are you competitive?
In some ways yes, and in some ways no. I get irritated when I know I can do better, but it’s more about competing with myself than others. I’m not going to sell my first born or hang somebody out to dry to get ahead of anyone. - What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
MAC Indulge. - How did you learn to drive?
Oh, gawd. Well at first my dad tried to teach me, and that was really, really terrible because he’s the worst teacher, and he has no patience. And in the truck I learned to drive on, the speedometer was broken, so my dad was always getting mad at me for speeding.Eventually, I just signed up for one of those driving courses where somebody came out to my house, and they had one of those teacher/student cars with breaks on the passenger side. All I really remember from that was that the teacher smelled like cigarette smoke all the time, so I drove with the windows down, and the wind always messed up my hair.
- When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,” what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Chanel. ‘Nuff said.
Now it’s your turn. Just copy and paste the following questions into a comment with your answers. I look forward to reading ’em! 🙂1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
5. What’s your worst quality?
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
7. Are you competitive?
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
9. How did you learn to drive?
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,” what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
I hope I can get my feet back under me this week… I’ve been so overwhelmed lately. I haven’t fully recovered from all that traveling this summer. I could easily not do anything for three weeks, and still maybe not be fully recovered.
Oh, well. That’s not gonna happen. Not on Tabs’ watch.
I hope we all have a great week.
Scratch that. I’m sure we will. 🙂
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? I am not sure there is a story behind it. But I am very happy with my name. I know my parents thought about Emma or Marina and I am very happy with the one they’ve picked.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? Probably Natalie Portman would play me.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? No) Only several diplomas.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? Can’t think of anything right now.
5. What’s your worst quality? I am not the most organized person in the World.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? Philip B Peppermint & Avocado Volumizing and Clarifying Shampoo – it’s simply the best shampoo in the World but it’s also not cheap. I don’t really use conditioners. As for shower gel – probably Elemis’ Tranquil Touch Body Wash, it smells amazing.
7. Are you competitive? yes, very, and that sucks.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? I am intrigued by Illamasqua’s Velvet Blushers.
9. How did you learn to drive? I don’t like driving.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Interesting combination, Hourglass?
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Yes! Every year throughout my school life!
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? My mother thought she was having a boy and she only had boy names picked out. So she put three names on a piece of paper ( Sabrina, Michelle, and Rosalyn). She chose the least common name.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? Keisha Knight Pulliam would be me.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Yes and I hate doing that.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? My best friends wedding this summer.
5. What’s your worst quality? I am my worst critic and can be brutally honest at times.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? Wen and Carol Daughter Cleansing Milk.
7. Are you competitive? Not at all.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? I am loving all things MAC right now.
9. How did you learn to drive? My father
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Nars
whoa, haven’t done this in a while! happy monday, karen & tabs!
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
When I changed my name due to getting married, I remembered that my full first name is Camille Alexis. Camille is from the flower, Camellia, and Alexis from the Liz Taylor character from “Dynasty”. 🙂 I used to hate my name, but now I like it; I don’t meet too many “Camille’s”. 🙂
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
I have no idea! LoL. She looks nothing like me, but I think she’s fricken gorgeous!!!! —Olivia Wilde. She’s my girl crush. <3
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Probably in middle school? I can't remember the last one, but I did get an award in 5th grade for a Filipino heritage thing.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
This past weekend. We went to the funeral of The Man's Lola. She was a beautiful woman, who was such an anchor for this (huge) family. Our niece, Aniya, sang "Amazing Grace" and "Hallelujah" at the memorial service, and at the burial. She has a beautiful voice and those two songs are so beautiful. It was a sad and happy time — so much family around.
5. What’s your worst quality?
Low balling myself. I know I can do awesome things, but it's really difficult to "sell yourself" to employers. I'm putting off looking for employment due to this self doubt, but I need to get over it. The Man is so supportive, but I feel like a bum and I need to do something. Not just for myself, but for him —- putting up with me for the past 7 years. LoL
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
OOOOooooh! I love LOVE Lush's "BIG!" shampoo! It smells so pretty! But it's pretty clarifying, so I can only use it once a week, or so. I wish they had a conditioner that smelled the same. :/ The daily use shampoo is "Clear". I didn't realize it until a lady at Ulta told me, but it smells like old-school Herbal Essences, yeah? 🙂
7. Are you competitive?
Sometimes. Not sports like competitive, but I like to one up myself. Sometimes one up the husband. But I'd rather just sit back and observe than get all up in the hubbub.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
I don't indulge in make up, so I can't say. I like reading your reviews and looking at photos 🙂 Makes me want to try out stuff, but I'm still working on my patience with make up….
9. How did you learn to drive?
Oh, bananas. When it was permit/license time, I fell under the "6 hours of behind the wheel training with a school" requirement. So, the very first time I drove, it was with the dual sided brake and steering wheel getttup. It was kinda scary, and I ended up driving the instructor around to their errands (pay their water bill, etc). hahha. It went OK. After a while (and a few accidents), I learned that tailgating and road rage are not good for my anxiety, so I drive like a grandma.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Bobbi Brown? Chanel comes to mind, also 🙂 simple and classy.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
Not sure. I’ll have to ask my mom about it.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
Hm, I wouldn’t mind if Halle Berry played me. Not sure who else though. I would let the cats play themselves b/c they’re one of a kind. 🙂
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Back in high school. Yeah, that was the peak of academic career too. 🙂
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
A few weeks ago, I was outside enjoying the beautiful weather and just feeling blessed for all the good things I have in my life.
5. What’s your worst quality?
I tend to procrastinate. I wish I was more motivated sometimes.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
I’m really digging this volumizing shampoo and conditioner from Pantene. It works well for my fine hair.
7. Are you competitive?
Not at all. I hated doing team sports in school.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
I’ve been kinda busy and haven’t been keeping up with them all.
9. How did you learn to drive?
I learned to drive in our old Subaru station wagon with my dad. He wasn’t always patient and it was not fun. I was so nervous at my first test that I ran over two cones during the maneuverability portion and then stopped at a green light! It was awful.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Bobbi Brow or Chanel.
Happy Monday!
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
Just the only name my parents could agree on! Lol
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
I love Kristen Wig, and she’s awkward and goofy like me. Or maybe Rachel McAdams cause she’s amazing lol
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Probably but the most notable and recent one was my college diploma. What a nightmare being on stage…
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
I bought my dad his race photo from when we ran a marathon together last year. In the past 12 months he was diagnosed with cancer and is now healthy again so it’s been a roller coaster. The photo always makes me tear up.
5. What’s your worst quality?
Insecurity! I’ve gotten better about it but I miss out on things because I’m too shy sometimes, or have a hard time taking compliments. It’s such a silly problem to have but I’ve been working on the confidence thing.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
Aussie 3-minute miracle deep conditioner is amazing! So moisturizing.
7. Are you competitive?
Not always but I notice with other women I can be. Probably linked to the insecurity which makes a lot of sense!
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
Haven’t even really looked.
9. How did you learn to drive?
I’ve always driven stick thanks to my dad. He would take me to a steep hill with a stop sign and make me get out of first gear without stalling. Scariest learning experience ever lol but worth it since I can’t imagine trying to learn now.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
I agree with Chanel. Very classic.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? Not particularly! My middle name is Elizabeth, and that’s for the aunt who raised my maternal grandfather.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? I’m always getting told I look like a ginger Liv Tyler, so she might have to star in it. Zack… maybe Seth Rogen? Similar senses of humor. Quincy and Jiji would probably play themselves.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Yes, quite a few times. Most recently for a trophy from a prof I work for, and for a scholarship I won.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? I can’t think of anything right now!
5. What’s your worst quality? My mind moves quickly to the point where I say random things. I also talk too much when I’m nervous.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? Don’t really have a favorite shampoo/conditioner right now – I have Pantene Aqua Light, and it’s a’ight. My general favorite body wash is Dove Sensitive Skin.
7. Are you competitive? Depends on the activity! Not competitive with sports at all, since I suck at them. But when it comes to grades, academia, and board games… I’m extremely competitive, especially with school. Still not over the fact that I lost the Outstanding MBA Student Award last year.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? I love the Khaki mascara and eyeliner from Chanel.
9. How did you learn to drive? On backroads in my mom’s Pontiac Vibe! I didn’t start learning until I was 18…
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? I agree, Chanel.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
Yes. My parents were hoping for a boy and obviously I’m not. My middle name, Ann was already picked out. My dad wanted to name me Valerie after Valentine’s Day. Mom was like no. So her friend Tina was playing around with her name and came up with Tania.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? Either Oprah or Madea would play Mom Yvonne, Bill Cosby would play my dad, and if Melissa McCarthy wanted to do a dramatic role then she could play my Mom Donita. As for me I really like that girl who was Vanessa in Gossip Girl.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Yes I won several scholarships based on my volunteer work during High School commencement.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? I cried during Law and Order SVU when Olivia left Craegan’s office.
5. What’s your worst quality? I’m really hasty!
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? OMG the pink Olay wash with Ribbons is AWESOME. Do not use the L’Oreal Smooth Intense Shampoo and Conditioner. It totally damaged my hair.
7. Are you competitive?
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? I’m totally going to take advantage of the ELF villans collection and I heard that Maybelline has some new lip stuff coming out.
9. How did you learn to drive? Driver’s Ed. I suck!
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Tarte, Stila, or Lancôme. I’m
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? My godmother/aunt’s name is Patricia, so my mom wanted to name me that. But, she changed it a bit to just Trisha. No Pa-, and I’m happy about that. No way will anyone call me Pat.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? Drew Barrymore would play the adult me, but with dark curly hair.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? The only time I can think of is when I graduated college and got my honors medal.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? I’m moved to slight tears every time I hear Same Love by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis.
5. What’s your worst quality? The fact that I think I’m perfect. 😉
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? I don’t have one… Uh oh!
7. Are you competitive? Nope. Not at all. If I win, cool. If I don’t, that’s fine. Congrats to the winner.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? I’ve been eying everything from Urban Decay and wanting it so bad.
9. How did you learn to drive? Ugh. So, all my mom had was a stick shift, which, as you might know, is super hard to learn. Every time I’d stall the car or grind the gears, she would freak out. And my mom’s not normally like that. It was NOT FUN.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Honestly, nothing I use comes to mind. Plenty are pretty, but “sophisticated?” It’s really hard to embody that word. I guess Pixi comes closest.
What’s your worst quality? I am too straightforward!
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? – Not really. I think my parents just liked Rachel. If I was a boy, I would have been Jonathan, which I think is funny.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? – Jennifer Lawrence would play me, beyond a shadow of a doubt. I was astonished when I first caught wind of her media presence as an actress because we behave so similarly!
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? – Multiple times in middle and high school. I received awards in college, and was onstage for part of college, but never received an actual award on a stage (except for graduation, which is not quite the same).
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? – This happens fairly frequently so it’s hard to pin down one time. Recently my grandma wrote me a nice letter and I couldn’t get through it without crying. It wasn’t even that emotional of a letter but I couldn’t help myself.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? – I’m really liking the Vitabath Pink Cupcake Frosting shower gel. I KNOW how pre-teen and sugary-ridiculous it sounds, but seriously, it’s the most authentic cupcake smell, so luxurious and perfect for a bath/shower! And the scent doesn’t stick afterwards, so you don’t have to smell like a cupcake all day.
7. Are you competitive? – Yes. I kind of am. Not as much as I used to be, but sometimes I love to occasionally pound a challenger into the dust.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? – Either theBalm’s voyage palette or the MUFE artisan brushes (if that counts).
9. How did you learn to drive? – Um, it was not fun. It took me forever to learn because my mom barely trusted me behind the wheel, and my dad did not have the time/patience. I failed my first driver’s test in the parking portion!
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? – Cle de Peau! I know Amanda Seyfried is their spokesmodel, and she is SO sophisticated and pretty!!
Woops, forgot #5: my worst quality is probably my loudmouthedness. I will crack so many jokes and have so much running commentary in any social situation, just because I am an entertainer- sometimes I make a fool out of myself or even offend someone and wish I had kept quiet, or at least thought before I talked!
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? My mom wanted a name that would go well with my last name, something which would sound musical. And it was the only name my parents agreed on. Turned out it was the most popular (girl’s) name of the late 80s in France which is really a pain in the a¤¤¤.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? Oh boy… I’d like Tony Danza to be my dad. No idea about the rest of the cast.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? NO.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? Can’t remember.
5. What’s your worst quality? No idea.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? Again, no answer.
7. Are you competitive? Not at all! Never was. I hate competition.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? All the new paintpots from MAC! I needed something like this to turn this fall makeup into something a bit more fun.
9. How did you learn to drive? My grandfather taught me with his old car. We used to take the car to a field so I couldn’t hit anything besides a bunch of rocks there, it was pretty safe. Sadly my grandpa passed away this summer. It’s sad cause I had forgotten he was the one who taught me how to drive.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Chanel.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? I think I was named after a character from a TV show… Apparently she was pretty and likeable. I guess my parents were hoping those traits would be passed on to me 😉
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? O_O I need more time to think about this one. But definitely Ian Somerhalder and myself. For obvious reasons.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? When I was 18 I received the Outstanding Achievement for English award.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? Last night, by a song on X-factor. Weak, I know 🙂
5. What’s your worst quality? I have no patience and I worry way way WAY too much for my own good. About really ridiculous things.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil shampoo, L’Oreal Pro-Keratin refill conditioner and Kneipp Almond & Argan shower oil. They deliver, simple as that. And they smell good 🙂
7. Are you competitive? In a weird way yes, because even though I hate competing against people I do love to win.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? I really like Smashbox’s Fade To Black collection.
9. How did you learn to drive? Took lessons, and then practised with my dad.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Sisley.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? Other than my grandmother wanted me to be named Beverly instead of Kimberly…I’m glad Kim won! 🙂
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? I have no clue! lolol
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? No
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? Yesterday. I finally climbed a small mountain and the view was incredible.
5. What’s your worst quality? Lack of patience
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? Carols Daughter Minoi rocks my hair and Suave shower gel in Everlasting Sunshine because it gets the job done cheaply.
7. Are you competitive? Eh…not really
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? UD
9. How did you learn to drive? My dad taught me and it’s one of my favorite memories from my childhood.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Ditto on Chanel
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
My parents really liked the name Jessica, but my cousin was born just a few months before me and her parents “stole” the name Jessica. I ended up named after my grandma, just spelled differently (she’s Katherine, I’m Kathryn).
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
My dad – Richard Dreyfuss (there’s a pretty striking resemblance)
My mom – Rita Moreno
Me – In my fantasies it’s Michelle Rodriguez, but Alexa Vega is probably more accurate.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Yeah, a few times. I won several awards in high school choir, two awards for my senior thesis in college, and Phi Beta Kappa, which is not really an award but I did get to go onstage.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
Oh gosh. I feel like this happens to me a lot when I look at the ocean, especially now that I don’t live near it.
5. What’s your worst quality?
I have a very quick temper, and I’m a poor loser.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
Shampoo – TheraNeem Gentle Therape, Conditioner – California Baby Unscented, Shower Gel – don’t remember what it’s called, but it has grapefruit seed extract. I like things that are not too harsh and don’t have strong smells.
7. Are you competitive?
Extremely. I hate to lose at anything!
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
I haven’t been paying attention. Whoops.
9. How did you learn to drive?
Took driving lessons? It’s required in CA, so yeah, took lessons with a driving instructor.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
No idea. I tend to do makeup “go big or go home,” so I usually go really dramatic or none at all, so I’m drawn to brands like Illamasqua, OCC, and MAC.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? A little bit, my parents first wanted to name me other things but eventually having their first two options vetoed they chose Krista hearing about a teacher who had it who died on a spaceship (I think? lol)
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? Oh god. I don’t even want to think about that. Just no.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Yes in school.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? Honestly can’t remember- usually I have to be sad to cry.
5. What’s your worst quality? Too many to list! I talk too much, I’m a perfectionist.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? No real fav. conditioner but AG anti-dandruff shampoo and Haus of Gloi shower stuff 🙂 The anti-dandruff shampoo works well but is gentle on my colour treated hair and the Haus of gloi is fantastically scented, vegan and works so well too
7. Are you competitive? Yes
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? No single collection, loving berry shadows and lippies overall though.
9. How did you learn to drive? Through a driver’s ed class. Hated it.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Hourglass cosmetics
Also I saw these two things at Urban Outfitters and instantly thought of you!-
http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=24686966&parentid=A_FURN_RUGS
and
http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=29359536&parentid=A_FURN_DINNERWARE
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? My mother wanted the name Dominique and no other ! Well, male or female ? But she insisted upon it.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? My cat !
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Yes quite often
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? A movie Bright Star ( 2010 )
5. What’s your worst quality? None
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? A drugstore one for dry/very dry hair, no conditioner, a shower gel with a delicate rose scent
7. Are you competitive? Sometimes I am, sometimes I’m not in fact
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? Guerlain Voilette de Madame
9. How did you learn to drive? I took driving lessons
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Dior
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? I was named after a patriot in my father’s country.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? Hmmm..my husband would be Charlie Hunnam, me in my wildest dream Angeline Jolie..haha and my son..not sure
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Yes during high school…Does that count?
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? When I ran in central park last weekend. It had rained the night before and it was just beautiful the park in the early morning.
5. What’s your worst quality? Hmmm impatience.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? Favorite shower gel is Bliss Minty Scrub. I love how it smells and makes you skin feel tingly since it is minty.
7. Are you competitive? Oh H*ll yeah!
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? I dont know..I like the Mac Eyeliners?
9. How did you learn to drive? Through a class.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? I think NARs
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
Ana is for my mom’s name, Patricia is because of an actress or model/ miss universe.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
For my role I’d be Hanna Murray with dark hair hahaha and for the guy / love I’d be Mike Bailey (can you see the skins trend right now? LOL) or Adam Levine (hahaha yeah, sure).
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Yep, when I was in high school.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
Last week when I watched the movie “Instructions not included” at the movie theater.
5. What’s your worst quality?
I get angry very easily.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
L’oreal ever creme line because it’s sulfate-free!
7. Are you competitive?
Yes!!! I love to win LOL
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
Hmmm MAC Indulgence caught my eye but I didn’t get anything 🙁
9. How did you learn to drive?
I took lessons :3 It was a disaster LOL but I learned.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Dior.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?: It’s a Western name and my parents wanted me to have a name that would make life easier for me in America. So Christina was the name they chose.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?: I guess I would want Eva Longoria to play me (even though I am not as pretty as she is). We’re both petite and she’s snappy and funny enough to remind me of myself.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?: From kindergarten to 12th grade, that’s all I ever did.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?: When I looked at old photos of Native Americans online last night.
5. What’s your worst quality?: I tend to hold grudges, even though I know better than to do that. I also tend to procrastinate and I am not always clear-headed. By that I mean I can sometimes be irrational and look at things one way, while not seeing other perspectives.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?: Chagrin Valley Honey, Beer & Egg shampoo. I always condition with coconut oil. I don’t use shower gel, but I do love Sprinkle with Grace Avocado Soap. http://sprinklewithgrace.com/
7. Are you competitive?: Yes. But it depends on certain things. When it comes to academia I can be competitive.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?: Estee Lauder. I do like a couple of pieces from NARS 2013.
9. How did you learn to drive?: Still have not learned.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?: Estee Lauder, then Lancome.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
Yes! My mom was watching MTV and saw the music video for “Locomotion” and knew she wanted to name me Kylie.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
Oh gosh. Zachary Quinto would play my boyfriend, because they’re twins. No idea for myself!
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Yes, many times in high school. Not since!
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
A few weeks ago in Disney World– seeing the opening show at the Magic Kingdom 🙂
5. What’s your worst quality?
I have a very short fuse.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
Fav shower gel is Olay Quench– sooo moisterizing, especially this time of year!
7. Are you competitive?
Incredibly so.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
NARS! Obsessed with the eyeshadows.
9. How did you learn to drive?
Lots of people were involved in teaching me– the only one who could successfully teach me to parallel park was my father. I hate not “getting” things immediately and learning to drive was one of the most frustrating experiences of my life. I hated it!
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Benefit!
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
i know my mom told me i was supposed to be raquel…but i think my grandma ended up suggesting my name now.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
lana del rey with dark hair and a little tanner. we have the same style.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
yeah, in high school. not a fan of walking on stages. anxiety.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
i was watching a documentary on the jfk assassination, and there was a segment on jackie, and they showed a video clipshow of both of them on vacation with their kids and it was a voice over of her letter she wrote after he was assassinated. i thought it was so genuine, vulnerable and showed her true feelings, and it was done very beautifully.
5. What’s your worst quality?
stubbornness.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
shampoo- herbal essence long term relationship, and lush BIG for special occasions.
conditioner- lush veganese, the shine is great!
shower gel- dove jasmine petals and coconut. leaves my skin so soft.
7. Are you competitive?
not at all.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
MAC retro matte lipsticks, and RiRi Hearts MAC. those colors fall into my perfect routine.
9. How did you learn to drive?
my mom took me out and our high school had a driving course in the summer.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
chanel or MAC.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? “Kristen” is based off of my great grandmother’s name, Christine. I was originally going to be Molly, but my older sister is Maggie and the two most popular American dog names were Maggie and Molly at the time!
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? At the moment, for me, it’d have to be Emma Stone. I’ve been told, often, that I look like her!
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? If you count high school graduation then yes!
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? Actually, when I watched Modern Family on Wednesday, when Mitch and Cam propose. It was so sweet!
5. What’s your worst quality? Pessimism. I’m naturally inclined to be so, but it sucks and can be a huge drain on my energy.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? Shampoo, L’Oreal Total Repair 5! It makes my hair so smooth. I don’t use conditoner (don’t kill me – my hair is so thin!) but every so often I use Aussie 3 Minute Miracle, which I love. And I love the Body Shop shower gel!
7. Are you competitive? Not really. Sometimes, but it was only ever with my sister and mostly academic things.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? No idea yet. I haven’t been that excited about anything.
9. How did you learn to drive? My dad taught me at 16, after I failed my permit test the first time! Mostly riding around in parking lots, but I also had a horrible driving instructor who gave my dad a migrane when he had to observe with us. He never gets headaches.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Estee Lauder! Sometimes it feels a little old for me, but I like a lot of their stuff!
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? Not really, it’s a somewhat traditional name in Norway, where my dad is from and I was born before moving to Cali.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? Reese Witherspoon, maybe? 🙂
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Yup! I think the last time was college though, which was (gasp) almost 10 years ago.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? My boyfriend totally made me tear up this weekend, as we talked about our future plans. He’s not a very expressive/emotional guy so it was especially moving.
5. What’s your worst quality? Thinking too much. So often simpler is better!
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? Aveda’s Be Curly shampoo is fantastic, even when I blow my hair out straight. It gives the perfect amount of moisture.
7. Are you competitive? To a degree, but I’m not obsessive about it.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? Those Lip Tars look pretty gorgeous!
9. How did you learn to drive? Both my parents. Their house backs up to a church with a parking lot that’s empty most of the week, so they would take me back there for practice before hitting the real streets. 🙂
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? There’s several, but Benefit comes to mind first, mostly because of their philosophy.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
One of my dad’s coworkers suggested it and my parents liked the sound of it.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
Hmmm…you know, I don’t really follow Hollywood all that much. I have no idea. I’m going to steal Karen’s idea bc I’m confident an East Asian version of Reese Witherspoon can play me.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Graduation.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
I’ve been watching The Voice of China and I’m moved to tears at least once per episode.
5. What’s your worst quality?
Oh my gosh. I have several–but I suppose everyone does. Motivation and procrastination–they’re sort of tied together. “Carpe diem” is a mantra I wish I followed more.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
Oh, I need help looking for a new one. I used to like the L’Oreal Ever series bc it’s SLS free but lathers well. However, ever since nearly every shampoo brand has included methylisothiazolinone as a preservative I’ve been looking for a different one.
7. Are you competitive?
Hmmm…yes. Not over a lot of things but for things like work performance and competing against myself, then yes. I don’t categorize underhanded tactics under a “competitive” personality, I would categorize them under “unscrupulous” and “corrupt.”
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
Urban Decay has been winning my vote every year for the last few to be honest.
9. How did you learn to drive?
I went to driving school. Then practiced with my dad.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Guerlain
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
I was supposed to be named Victoria Louise (deplorable, I know, can you imagine it, Karen?) My mom had a dream at eight weeks pregnant of having a Kathryn Suzanne; that’s how I got the basis of my name. She didn’t want me to be a Katherine, so she spent her three months on permanent bed rest using all of linguist skills to flip the spelling and settled on Kathryn.
She liked this name over Victoria better because of its links to linguistics and family. I was named after Catherine II, also known as Cathetine the Great of Russia. While she’s known for a more raunchy past time, she also simplified the entire Russian language to the way it is today. She also brought Russia forward economically and militarily. She is a very complex historical character!
Suzanne is a derivative of Susan, who is the sister who took in my mom after their parents died. She is the one whom my mom really thinks of as a mother figure. She is also my godmother. She’s my favorite as she has always treated me like me like a grandchild. She was also 26 when she took in my mom, so it reminds me how strong my family is!
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
Probably Natalie Portman as we look alike. I don’t know about anything else!
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Yes, numerous times. Every time is as nerve racking as the last. Last time was 2011 for a high GPA award in college.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
I don’t remember actually!
5. What’s your worst quality?
Brutal honesty. I don’t mean just honesty like others, but since I’m autistic I sometimes forget that people can’t handle complete uncensored opinions…and that’s what I end up saying. I end up hurting people’s feelings.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
Matrix Biolage Colortherapie. It helps protect my hair and doesn’t weigh down my fine, thin hair!
7. Are you competitive?
At times, I am insanely competitive. However, I am always a gracious loser.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
The Deborah Lippmann nail varnishes! I got my favorites all ready!
9. How did you learn to drive?
My mom; my dad was banned from teaching me after he got me so nervous I nearly drove the car into the elementary school sign because I forgot which was the gas and which was the brake pedal (Army/former police EMT dads should not be allowed to teach driving.) My mom is the chill one and taught my in between high school driving classes during the summer. I got really good because my mom and I got lost A LOT!
I went from my teacher’s worst driver he ever had to the best he ever had. I didn’t know whether to consider that a compliment or an offense after I did my road test.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Benefit. As far as nail polish, butterLONDON.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
Nope. But the Little Mermaid came out a few years after I was born and so everybody associates my name with that.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
Oh lordy, maybe Julia Roberts or Clare Danes
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Not since I was in college.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
Watching Fleur de Force’s wedding video.
5. What’s your worst quality?
I can be persistent when I want something. And I am bad at saving money.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
I like the Shikai volumizing shampoo right now.
7. Are you competitive?
Confident, yes. Competitive, not really.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
I’ve been underwhelmed this year.
9. How did you learn to drive?
Regular Driver’s Ed.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Dior
Wow! You have Filipino blood, Karen?! That explains the gorgeous coloring you have! I’m Filipina as well and for the longest time, I hated my color. Fair is beautiful here in the Philippines 🙁 But when I started reading your blog, I realized that my color can pull off bright shades! Yey!I have started wearing pink lipstick because of you. Now, if only I can muster enough courage to try reds…Thanks for being an inspiration, Karen!
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
My mom fell asleep after labor, so my grandmother named me after her mother, Maria.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
Hmm…I love Leighton Meester?Love her!
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Yep! In high school, I was somewhat of a geek so I usually won quiz bees.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
When my I first laid eyes on my daughter.
5. What’s your worst quality?
I’m a procrastinator!
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
I usually use whatever’s in the bathroom.
7. Are you competitive?
Somewhat.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
OMG! Chanel’s!
9. How did you learn to drive?
I don’t wanna risk my life on the streets of Manila, so I’ve never learned how to.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Guerlain and Chanel
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
Not really. My parents picked it out on the fly – they were just flipping through a book and found it. They liked that it meant “light”.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
A Filipino Spanish Emma Stone? I love her so much.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
College? I think? I made dean’s list my last year there.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
Probably when I was in Arkansas. The mountaintops at Hot Springs are beautiful.
5. What’s your worst quality?
I don’t communicate well enough and I expect people to be just as considerate. That sounds snotty, but I don’t know, I just can’t stand it when I take the train and an elderly person gets on, and no one at least offers a seat. C’mon. Get off your stupid phone and at least offer…
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
I’m still hooked on the Herbal Essences honey shampoo. It doesn’t make my hair fall out and I love the smell.
7. Are you competitive?
I can be – depends on what’s at stake. But not to the point of trying to hurt anyone else.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
I haven’t been paying much attention to be honest 🙁 But I am still on a big, big NARS kick.
9. How did you learn to drive?
My dad tried when I was little but was way too impatient and scream-y. Then I took classes in high school and again, the teacher was just not cut out to teach a young, scared, shy girl to drive. So I gave up on driving for the next 8 years (you don’t really need to drive if you live in Chicago). Then I decided I got sick of it and made my dad – in a more mellowed manner – teach me. The bf also helped a lot, since I can now parallel park like a champ because of him.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Chanel and Guerlain. But mostly Chanel…
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?It’s the most generic first and middle name ever for the year I was born (1982), and it’s the only name my parents could agree on. If I had been a boy, I’d’ve been named Jeffery. Ha!
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? I was told the other day that I look like Anna Kendrick (I wish!), so maybe her. She seems too upbeat though, so maybe someone with a dry sense of humor like Aubrey Plaza would be better.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Not since high school or college. Embarrassing.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? Uh, today, actually but I blame PMS more than anything.
5. What’s your worst quality? I am unbelievably stubborn beyond all comprehension.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? I’ve been liking Philosophy’s Raspberry Sorbet because of the smell, but maybe I need to move onto something more autumnal soon.
7. Are you competitive? YES! But only inwardly competitive. I’m constantly comparing myself to myself and to others, but I would never actually comment on it or say anything about it.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? Hmm. Not sure.
9. How did you learn to drive? Under the panicky instruction of my mom and the frightening eye of my police sergeant dad.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Yes, Chanel. I don’t think any other brand comes close.
Your answer to number five makes me a little sad.I think (and i’m sure all of your readers would agree) that YOU ARE AWESOME!!!! I do always admire your honesty and i know we are all “mean” to ourselves sometimes. So, if you talk to yourself in ways that shouldn’t be allowed try not to allow em :)That’s just me butting in! Hope your week is fantabulous! <3
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it?
No! I wish! Although my middle name is Elizabeth and that came to be because both of my grandmother’s are named Elizabeth.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts?
Leighton Meester would play me, Ed Westwick would play Ben, Robin Williams would play my dad. I’ll have to think about who’d play my mom & brother.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award?
Yes it was terrible and I hope I never have to do it again ever in my life. I hate being on stage or in front of people.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful?
Last night I cried while I was listening to Young and Beautiful by Lana Del Rey because it’s going to be the first dance at my wedding with my fiance and I pictured it in my head and bawled like a baby.
5. What’s your worst quality?
I’m extremely stubborn.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why?
My favorite shampoo is the purple shampoo that gets the warmth out of your hair. I’m a natural blonde but my hair has been literally every color under the sun and right now I’m going back to blonde from black. The blonde it was was extremely warm-toned and my roots are growing out a cooler tone, making them look dirty and ashy but the purple shampoo really helps progressively cut the warmth sans bleach. I love Biolage conditioner. I’ve always loved it, it smells the best. And it works well! My favorite shower gel is Dr. Bronner’s unscented baby soap because it doesn’t give me hives and it’s organic.
7. Are you competitive?
Not at all.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year?
MAC’s Retro Matte Collection. And OPI’s San Francisco Collection.
9. How did you learn to drive?
My dad drove me around our small town and through parking lots.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind?
Bobbi Brown.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? My first name is pretty common and I think my mom just liked it, my middle name is after my paternal grandmother who died when my dad was young, which I think is sweet.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? I can’t think of contemporary actors, so I’m going to say Katherine Hepburn would play me. We don’t look very much alike, but I think my manner is very similar.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Not since grade school, which was awkward.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? Last week I saw a deer family, they were so beautiful and graceful.
5. What’s your worst quality? I’m very hard on myself.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? I love Aveda Be Curly conditioner, I use it as a leave in. It’s not very heavy and helps tame frizz.
7. Are you competitive? Mildly, mostly academically.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? I’ve been enjoying A few of the MAC Retro Matte lipsticks and the grey nail polish from YSL.
9. How did you learn to drive? My dad, who was uncharacteristically calm. I should thank him.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? YSL.
1. Is there a story behind your name and how you got it? I am totally a Stephanie!!! After my Grandfather Stephen.
2. If Hollywood made a movie based on your life, who would play the main parts? Drew Barrymore would play me, and a beefed up and head shaved Charlie Sheen would play the husband.
3. Have you ever gone out on stage to accept an award? Yes! The last time was in June, I got an award for being a volunteer in my 1st graders’ classroom. Flowers in a jar painted by the students. It’s been four months and I still have the flowers, I was very touched.
4. When was the last time you were moved to tears by something beautiful? I have a FB friend that tragically lost her husband last year to a cancerous tumor in his brain. Her honesty and openness about how she is feeling brings to to tears every time. I almost don’t want to read her posts, because I know what a sobby mess I’ll be when I’m done. But they’re so beautiful, I have to read them.
5. What’s your worst quality? Relying on my husband to do the “man” things too much! I just bought a new bike yesterday and it needed some tweaking. He did it, and I just sat there thinking that if I didn’t have him, then what would I have done? He can’t ever leave me, or else I’d be lost. I need to remedy that.
6. What’s your current favorite shampoo, conditioner or shower gel and why? I’m really digging Dr. Bronnar’s pure castille soap right now. It’s the only thing I’ll use on my body. It doesn’t dry out my skin and it’s pure!!! The lavender has a bit of a wonky scent, nothing I can’t handle, but I like it. I feel clean after I use it, not filmy.
7. Are you competitive? I’m emotionally competitive. I want to be the favorite parent of all my kids’ friends. I want to be the favorite parent volunteer, the favorite friend, me, me, meeeeee! I know how it sounds, I can’t help it. I’m working on fixing it.
8. What’s been your favorite fall makeup collection this year? Ooh, that new Urban Decay one, whose name escapes me right now, but I covet it all and I want it! Baaaaaad!
9. How did you learn to drive? My parents taught me. My cousin-in-law taught me how to drive a stick. And I worked on it by myself.
10. When you think, “sophisticated and pretty,†what’s the first beauty brand that comes to mind? Chanel.