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.
- Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
YAY! What’s not to love? They’re warm, you can get away with not ironing them, and they look cute with hoop earrings. I came of age in the ’90s, also known as “The Era When Plaid Shirts Ruled!” But unlike with overalls, I’m glad to see plaid make a comeback. - What’s one thing you hate sharing?
Honestly…dessert. It drives me nuts when I go to a restaurant and someone assumes that I’ll split dessert with them. I’m like, hello! — I purposefully ate a lighter main meal so that I could splurge on dessert, and now I’m not gonna share you. Get your own damned pie! 🙂 - What do you try hard to avoid?
Conflict. I don’t like fighting with people, or when people around me are fighting. - Can you draw?
You might think that with my single semester of rigorous eighth-grade art training, I’d be able to draw like da Vinci, but no, not really. I can draw little things, like simple sketches of flowers and cartoony shapes, but nothing too complicated. - Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
I don’t know. Let me check with my husband, LOL! 🙂But seriously, yes, if they 1) were mature beyond their years and 2) loved cats. Tabs and I are a package deal.
- If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
A shampoo and conditioner that would allow my hair to air dry into perfectly curled loose waves. - What were you like as a child?
Weird-looking and very, very shy. And obsessed with Hello Kitty. - When was the last time you braided your hair?
Yesterday. When in doubt…side braid that sh*t! - What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
Golds, golden browns, purples and greens. - What book are you reading at the moment?
I’m re-reading Angelfall, by Susan Ee, because the sequel just came out, and I wanted the last book to be fresh in my mind before diving into the new one. Do you ever do that?
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. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
4. Can you draw?
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
7. What were you like as a child?
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
P.S. The Walking Dead mid-season finale!? WTH!? Why…? All I have to say is I’m glad I was wearing waterproof mascara.
P.P.S. I just realized that this is the three hundredth installment of the Monday Poll (vol. 300).
Wow, that’s a lot of questions. I wonder how many times I’ve repeated myself. 🙂 See, that’s the beauty of memory — forgetting when you’ve forgotten things, haha!
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? yay! They’re usually super comfy!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? Pens! They never come back to me. Get your own! LOL.
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Traffic >_<
4. Can you draw? Um. No.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? Maybe! Probably my husband wouldn't appreciate it too much, though 😉
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? I like your answer! Magical shampoo + conditioner duo!
7. What were you like as a child? Odd. Awkward. As we all are, haha.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? Maybe last month? It's not super long yet.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Greens! Shimmery champagnes, and lately, copper.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? Nothing right now, but I just finished Coming to My Senses, by Alyssa Harad.
I feel you on the traffic, girl! I will rearrange my entire schedule so I don’t get stuck in it. 🙁
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
— Yeah!!!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
— My pen!
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
— Having fights with loved ones.
4. Can you draw?
— I can. It’s pretty average.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
— I would if the person is worth it.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
— A kohl pencil that doesn’t make me look like a raccoon after the whole day and which will be less time consuming to remove!
7. What were you like as a child?
— Very restless, talkative and I would climb everything in the house, outside the house.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
— 3 days ago.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
— Black, Brown, Blue, Green, Blue-green.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
— Catch-22
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Yea of course. So comfy and easy to wear 🙂
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
Ice cream. Because I want it all to myself and that tongue licking/sharing thing doesn’t go well with me.
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Conflicts as well haha. I’m a libra, I like the world to be balanced. Arguments and fights scare me.
4. Can you draw?
It’s one of those things I’m naturally good at. Sketches, especially.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
Ehhhh. Currently, the boy would be 9 years old so nahh. In the future, maybe!
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
Something that would smooth out acne scars!
7. What were you like as a child?
Happy, clumsy, polite.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
Hmm, 3 days ago?
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
Golden browns and purple.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
Nothing at the moment, but I really want to read Allegiant and The Art of Fielding, so I’ll get into those this week~
Have a wonderful week, Karen!
Hi Jace,
You have a wonderful week too!
Now you’re making me hungry for ice cream. Have you ever tried Three Twins Ice Cream? They have the best flavors.
oooh, I’ve never tried them! I will put it on my food bucket list 🙂
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? YAY. This year in particular I’ve become obsessed with them :).
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? Dessert! I know exactly what you mean :).
3. What do you try hard to avoid? I’d have to say conflict also. I hate confrontation and it makes me really uncomfortable when people are fighting…
4. Can you draw? I wish :(.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? Probably not. That would make them early 20s.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? Something I could put in my hair at night that would make it look perfect in the morning.
7. What were you like as a child? A bit of a tomboy.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? I can’t even remember, but I know I wasn’t too much into braiding.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Dark blues, certain shades of purple (nothing too bight) and khaki/olive greens.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? Richard Dawkins’s autobiography, “An Appetite for Wonder / The Making of a Scientist”
Hi Aida,
What are your favorite desserts? I love pies, cakes, homemade ice cream, cookies. The only thing I’m not really into are dense chocolate tarts. Or anything with a chocolate/orange combination. Blah!
Anything chocolate!
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Not for me! I like them on other people though!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? Blankets!
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Going to the post office! Least favorite thing to do.
4. Can you draw? I used to be very good at drawing and painting. It’s not something I really do anymore, especially since I now take a medication that makes my hands shaky.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? That would be illegal, and I don’t really like 16 year olds, LOL. Plus I’m married. So no!
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? I agree on magic shampoo and conditioner that would give me body and shine! I miss L’Oreal Vive Pro Glossy Volume!
7. What were you like as a child? Short, skinny, bright red hair, awkward, good at school, extraordinarily clumsy (I’m still extraordinarily clumsy, it’s genetic, I think, all my mom’s family are!)
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? Fairly recently. My go-to look for pulling back my hair is a French braid.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Taupes, beiges, champagnes, shell pinks, gold… all the neutrals, please!
10. What book are you reading at the moment? I just finished the first four books in The Mortal Instruments series, I need to start the fifth one, City of Lost Souls.
Hi Chelsea,
LOL re: blankets. 🙂 You and Tabs have common interests!
How was the rest of your weekend? Did you do anything fun? I picked up a tree, did some cleaning and played with mellow. Pretty chill around these parts.
I did homework and Christmas decorating! It’s getting to the end of the semester (last day of class is the 19th), so I’m pretty busy on that front. Quincy and Jiji love the Christmas tree.
How fun! We just got our tree yesterday. There was a little drama with the tree stand (sigh), but it’s all be worked out.
Do Quincy and Jiji hide underneath the tree? Tabs is doing that right now. 🙂
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Absolutely! Not the oversized, open over a t-shirt look of the 90’s though; I like the fitted, cute ones!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? My sofa! I want to stretch out, damnit–NOT have to survive the every weekend pile up of kid, cats, blankets, etc!
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Grocery shopping, which of course is TOTALLY unavoidable. Ugghhh, I hate it soooo much!
4. Can you draw? No way, no how!
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? Hahaha, oh yeah! I have very recently, actually. Unlike you though, Karen, maturity and wisdom beyond his years was NOT a requirement–I wanted the sheer FUN
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? I’m going to bite your answer, and also wish for a shampoo/conditioner that allows air-dryed hair to look as if its had a fresh, bouncy blow out.
7. What were you like as a child? Loud! I was a total diva as a kid!
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? I have a fishtail braid going on today, actually!
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Warm browns, golds, plums. I actually just picked up MAC Cranberry this past weekend, which is not a typical color for me. Unfortunately, it totally gives me pink-eye look. Do you have this, Karen? If so, I’d love to hear your thoughts on making this color work!
10. What book are you reading at the moment? I just finished an easy, guilty pleasure chick lit book yesterday afternoon. You know, one of those read-it-in-a-day, zero-thoughts-provoked kinda books. It was good, though!
Hi Stephanie,
I don’t have Cranberry, but I know the color and know what issue you’re talking about. What shades did you wear it with?
Based on a tutorial I saw, and LOVED, I tried Cranberry on the lid, with Swiss Chocolate in the crease, then with a black cat-eyeliner. Awful on me! I guess I could try with a purple, but it really wasn’t the look I was after. Maybe with gold?
Its such a pretty color–I’m determined to make it work somehow!
You are awesome for responding and trying to help 🙂
Hmm. It might be Swiss Chocolate. It has a lot of red in it. Do you have a more golden brown like Soba or Cork around? You might want to do that instead of the Swiss Chocolate. A peachy brown like Bamboo might work too.
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Big fat YEA! I have a couple that I like for daytime wear, and one that’s strictly for the comfiness (lounging, bedtime, etc). I wouldn’t mind owning a couple more, to be honest!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
hmm… my feelings? lol. I really don’t mind sharing most things, most of the time. I would say it’s very situation-dependent.
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Disappointing the people I care about. And when that fails, I try to avoid feeling guilty about disappointing people (it doesn’t usually work, though).
4. Can you draw?
Kinda! Definitely not an expert, and I have a serious lack of patience for it – so that doesn’t help either. But I can do simple stuff.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
Well, aside from the fact that I’m married… I guess it would depend on the person, but in general – no thanks. Especially since right now that would mean dating a 15-year-old, ha!
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
Something I just point at my face, click, and BAMMO! makeup done! (and it would be WHATEVER MAKEUP I WANTED. options galore!)
7. What were you like as a child?
I was probably a little quirky, shy around strangers but silly with my friends. I was notorious for doling out hugs, and asking people if I could “squeeze” them (a strangling type of hug – my parents made me start asking people permission to hug them like that!)
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
before I got it cut to my chin a week ago! I’ll probably do a side braid on my bangs sometime in the near future, but there’s no chance I could braid all of this shiznit at the moment.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
hmmm… goldeny browns, taupes, and pinks tend to bring out the blue, but I also like throwing purple and green into the mix.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
I’m reading a book about the evolution of the english language. Don’t remember what it’s called, but it’s pretty interesting!
Hi Shannon,
Oooh, I would LOVE that makeup device. Can you imagine? Program in a cat eye and red lip and BAM.
Congrats on the new ‘do. What made you decide to cut your hair?
exactly! And if you want a smokey eye and nude lips the next day, poof. done! 🙂
As for the cut, I just needed a change! My hair had been long-ish and layered for a while, and then I took it up to my collarbone back in August with an a-line type cut. Now it’s shorter (I guess just a little longer than chin-length) because it felt too weird and in-betweeny after my last cut. I’ve been wanting to go short-ish for a little while, and it was just time. I enjoy the challenge of getting to know a new hairstyle. 🙂
You are brave to do it now, girlfriend! I chopped mine off years ago right before winter and spent the entire season half frozen. You wouldn’t think having hair warm the back of your neck would make a difference, but dang, it sure does.
I bet it looks super cute though. Good for you for embracing hair change! 🙂 Does your hubby like it?
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? yay, I have quite a few.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? food in general.
3. What do you try hard to avoid? making hard decisions, if only I could avoid it…
4. Can you draw? only some things.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? definitely not, since he’d be too young.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? shampoo that would keep my hair clean for a week!
7. What were you like as a child? My parents tell me that I was curious about everything)
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? I was thin king that I should do it soon only today!
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Most of the times -different shades of brown.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? On the Road by Kerouac.
Hi Marina,
I would love that shampoo too! 🙂 Have a lovely Monday and enjoy your week!
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Yay. I rocked them back in the 90s, but I don’t currently own any.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
The couch. I like to strech out and get comfortable. Except for the cats, they’re always allowed to share with me.
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Conflict. I try to pick my battles.
4. Can you draw?
Somewhat. I took an art class in college that I loved. If I ever won the lottery I would love to take some art and art history classes.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
Maybe – but it would really depend on their maturity level. And yeah, it’s me and the cats. 🙂
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
Something that would give me perfect glowy skin first thing in the morning.
7. What were you like as a child?
Quiet, awkward and totally dorky.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
It’s been a while. My hair isn’t long enough to braid now.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
Neutrals, like warm browns. And every now and then I like purple.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
Don’t Look Back by Lowis Lowry. I read it when I was a teenager and I was curious to re-read it.
Btw, a while back you recommended Enclave by Ann Aguirre. I read that and Outpost and loved them both. I just finished reading Horde during Thanksgiving break. Thanks for suggesting those, b/c I loved the whole trilogy!
Also, Walking Dead – holy cow, I was so tense from that episode I had trouble sleeping that night.
Have a great Monday!
Hi Ruchita,
I’m so glad you enjoyed the Enclave series. Did you have that moment during Horde — about 75% in — when you went WHAT THE WHAT?! I was reading in bed at the time late at night and actually work poor El Hub out of a deep sleep because I yelled, LOL.
How was your Thanksgiving? Did you cook any fun desserts this year?
Yes! I read that book straight through in about a day. I was so curious to see how it would end.
Thanksgiving was fun! I only baked a couple of pies and some cupcakes b/c it was a smaller group than usual. I was off work all of last week, which was fantastic. Now, I’m already planning what desserts to make for Christmas. 🙂
Me too! I flew through it. Truth be told, it was my least favorite of all three, but I liked how it ended. It felt like it was an ending written for the fans.
Nice! What kind of pies did you make? I didn’t really cook anything this year; I left it all up to the Whole Foods deli.
I agree – it did have a nice, happy ending. With all the book to movie adaptations coming out, I think this could be a good one.
I made a banana cream pie and a crustless pumpkin pie, which was actually pretty healthy. And about 10 lbs of mashed potatoes – not so healthy. 🙂
Me too. Especially the first book! I would love to see it on the big screen.
Speaking of movies based on books, did you get the chance to watch the new Hunger Games movie yet?
P.S. I’ll have another helping of mashed potatoes, please!
Yes, I did get a chance to see Catching Fire! I liked it and I’m excited to see the next ones. I think they did a great job with the visuals and costumes. There’s always plenty of mashed potatoes to go around. I always make extra just in case. 🙂
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Yea! I love plaid 🙂
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
I don’t know. I love sharing. I’m always offering my food when someone comments on it, lol
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Confrontations! Similarly to avoid conflict. But when issues come up then they have to be confronted.
4. Can you draw?
I do a little! I recently realized a talent. One day i was bored at my job and a coworker presented me with colored pencils and paper. And i drew…it was magical.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
Nope. I wouldnt want to date a 17 yo x)
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
I love your shampoo conditioner idea because I want my hair exactly like that! I would also love to make a foundation that will match the shade of the skin color once it is put on. That would save everyone a lot of trouble, eh??
7. What were you like as a child?
I was actually a brat but shy and quiet. Contrary to a previous question, I did not like to share xD
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
A couple of months ago, I think. I love french braiding!
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
I love to wear pink and purple.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
“Lewis Carroll in Wonderland”. It’s a biography. I’m currently being stumped by his logic poems!
Hi Julia,
I want that foundation too! While I’m at it I would also like to request a matching loose and pressed powder. 😀
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Yay! Cute and comfortable!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? Personal space, I don’t like hovering.
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Drama, I love other people’s, but can’t handle it in my own life.
4. Can you draw? I’m not good on my own, but I can copy anything. I was an art forger in a past life. LOL!
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? 10 years younger is 28. Probably not. I like maturity.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? A base coat, polish, strengthener, top coat combo that didn’t stain nails! And quick dry!
7. What were you like as a child? Shy, quiet, skinny, smart.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? It’s been a while. I need to get better at it.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Golds and rich browns.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? “Dark Places” by Gillian Flynn. She’s very good at writing uncomfortable scenes.
Hi Stephanie,
I finished that book a while back. It’s really good!
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? occasionally!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? dessert! and clothes, people never return them!
3. What do you try hard to avoid? conflict when unnecessary
4. Can you draw? yes its fun!
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? no! not enough in common, unless it was just for the sex! lol.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? a foundation-concealer-powder combo that would do it all at once
7. What were you like as a child? goofy, brave and always smiling
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? a year ago? I can’t braid hair so someone has to do it for me!
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? bronze, gold, green, gray, champagne
10. What book are you reading at the moment? the red tiger season? think that is what is called
Hi Jess,
I would love that foundation/powder/concealer combo too. I’d want it to be a perfect match to my skin!
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Yea! They’re so comfy.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? My bedroom – I need some space that’s just for me.
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Unnecessary drama
4. Can you draw? I used to be pretty good…
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? I’m only 19 so that’s a no (haha)
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? The perfect cleanser!!
7. What were you like as a child? Lanky, shy and pretty nerdy!
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? Years ago…
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? I don’t usually wear colour on my eyes so I’m not really sure. I like NARS Iskandar Eye Paint and I just bought UD Shadow Pencil in Clinic (blackened teal I guess) which is pretty cool
10. What book are you reading at the moment? Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment! It’s good, but a bit slow. I want to read The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt next because The Secret History was amazing.
Hi Georgie,
UD’s pencils are the best! Have you ever tried Perversion? It’s a basic black, but it’s so long wearing.
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Yay! I think it looks sexier on men though.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? Food and makeup.
3. What do you try hard to avoid? My own demons.
4. Can you draw? Not really. Unless with an eyeliner on an eyelid.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? If I did this today, I’d probably would go to jail, cause I’d be dating like my own pupils. But in 15 years…maybe yea. Why not? Just for fun.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? A lipstick color that instantly adapts to my mood and changes with it. If I’m tired: a nice dusty rose. If I’m feeling naughty: a sexy luxurious red. If I’m feeling empowered: a dark berry shade…
7. What were you like as a child? Quiet but full of energy. Smart. Funny.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? Couple weeks ago.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Browns, burgundy, dark green, orange.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? None.
Hi Laura,
Thanks for answering the poll today. 🙂
You mentioned that you have students…are you a teacher?
I’m a teacher indeed, and I teach the 7th and 8th grade. Since I’m only 24, the kids are about 10/12 years younger than me. So it’s impossible to even imagine dating someone that age.
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Yes, all the way! I especially love vintage shadow plaid.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? I never liked anyone borrowing my clothes or shoes.
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Hurting someone’s feelings if I can help it.
4. Can you draw? Even though I was an art major in college, drawing has never been my strong suit. I find that if I do it regularly I get much better pretty quickly, but I don’t have a natural talent for it.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? Yes, I think so. I’m (almost) 38, I don’t think dating a 28 year old would be a huge deal. I am the May to my partner’s December in my current relationship, I’m actually 13 years younger.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? A permanent defrizzer/gray hair eliminator.
7. What were you like as a child? I was pretty outgoing until about 11, then became shy and introverted. I loved animals, I knew all the dogs in the neighborhood.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? It’s been a long time, I’m not very good at it but love the way it looks. I just cut my hair and I don’t think it’s long enough to braid.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? It really depends, if I’m wearing shadow (which is not often), I love gold and browns. If it’s liner, I love either a classic black cateye, or sometimes I’ll do a gold cateye.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? I just finished the last Maisie Dobbs mystery, not sure what I’ll pick next.
Hi Alice Ann,
That’s cool that you majored in art. Do you work in an art-related field?
Hi Karen! Long time, no write! I’ve been busy, but my grams had a stroke and I really need some happiness so here we go!
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Yay!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
My books. I hate sharing my books. I always fear they will come back dented or the spine cracked. GRRRR!
Oh, and makeup. Just, no. I don’t share that either. Get your own!
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Drama. Seriously, I just cannot handle drama.
4. Can you draw?
Not as well as some of my friends, but I can draw.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
Um, probably not. Someone ten years younger would be 15, so no.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
The perfect moisturizer. I can never seem to find that one that is light yet penetrating enough yet oil-free that doesn’t burn! The Simple one is close, but sometimes it isn’t quite moisturizing enough.
7. What were you like as a child?
A monster. End. Of. Story.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
Yesterday.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
Purples, browns, nudes (Naked is a hell of a palette), greens, dark blues….I love wearing just about anything.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
More Than This by Patrick Ness
Sorry to hear about your Grams, Kate. How is she doing? And how are you holding up? Are you two very close?
It’s iffy right now. She can move her arms and legs, she can breathe on her own and she responds to verbal cues, but sometimes she goes downhill a little because her clot was at the base of her neck right near her brain stem (which, basically, means she had one bad ass clot in a very bad area. Your brain stem controls all the important stuff like BREATHING.) We were lucky in that we got her to the hospital and into surgery (the blood clot buster doesn’t work in large arterial clots like the one she had) within the 3 hour time frame, but she really isn’t out of the woods until 72 hours after her stroke.
I’m pretty emotionally drained at the moment. It’s hard to be happy or giggly or even just sad when you’ve cried on and off for hours, paced and done rosaries (which you swore when you left Catholicism you would never do again.)
I’m pretty close to both of my grandparents. I was only blessed with one set of grandparents, unlike most people. My mom’s parents died long before I was born, so I only know my dad’s parents (well, his mom and stepdad. His stepdad is basically grandpa to me though. He’s the only one I know.) I’m actually closer to my grampy (aka Grandpa. I call him Gramps or Grampy) than my grammy/grams (I go between the two.)
I got very jealous when my cousin was born because I thought he was going to steal my grandparents away (he’s 8 1/2 years younger than me.) He had two sets of grandparents (until recently) and I didn’t want him to take my only set away! It was pretty crazy thinking. I moved around a lot, but my grandparents have always been there for us.
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
YAY! I love oversized flannels for fall and winter. My go-to winter outfit is a big flannel, leggings, boots and a white tee underneath. So comfy but still cute.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
The kitchen when I’m cooking. When Ben is in the kitchen looking over my shoulder it drives me CRAZY.
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Same, conflict. I will do everything I can to avoid a fight with a friend, Ben, family, etc.
4. Can you draw?
Ehh yeah, if I actually sit down and make myself.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
No. Men older than me (coughBENcough) aren’t even mature enough. I can’t imagine one younger.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
Self-applying false lashes. I can do them on other people in three seconds with my eyes closed but I just CAN NOT put them on myself.
7. What were you like as a child?
Very bubbly and outgoing, very girly and VERY blonde.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
Last week, braided bangs are my go-to because I’m growing them out!
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
Neutrals. Mostly browns. Lately I’ve been playing with other colored liner like dark green, dark blue and maroon and I’m diggin’ it.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
Man Repeller! Love her.
Hi Amanda,
It takes me forever to put false lashes on myself! A friend of mine taught me a trick recently that makes the whole process easier: skip the lash curler. I do a layer of mascara on my (very straight) lashes and then just pop the false lashes on them. They seem to go on much easier that way, go figure.
Thanks! I’ll have to try it that way! Then do you curl after to blend the two or do they blend without the curler?
I’m back again!
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Absolutely yay (but I had to search about them, I didn’t knew them in English -.- ) in Winter they’re awesome.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
Books, I only share them with really near people, I’m afraid to lose any of them. In my case sometimes I prefer to share dessert but only if I’d eaten a really big meal.
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
People that doesn’t make me feel comfortable, I’m kinda problematic and start to fight if someone taunts me; so I prefer to avoid them.
4. Can you draw?
I’m not professional but I do a quite good job.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
Right now I can be considered a pedophile, since I’m 19, but in my thirties I think I could date a guy in his twenties, but only if he is mature enough.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
An electric razor that can shave the beard like a normal one.
7. What were you like as a child?
I was fatter, more tanned and loved cars.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
Two years ago, I hadn’t had my hair long enough since that date.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
I don’t wear eye makeup.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
I’m starting Ana Karenina for the third time, I’m never able to finish it.
Karen I also had to tell you that you aren’t the only vertically challenged, I’m 5’3”; as a guy even here in Mexico I’m short so I understand your problems but also think that I don’t wear heels.
I think you here in Mexico wouldn’t have problems since many women height the same like you.
Hi Efrain,
Nice to see you again. Hey, 5’3″ is downright tall compared to my height. 🙂 How have you been? And have you found any good blushes lately?
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
YAY! Esp. in flannel! I have a lavender plaid one from the 90;s that I still wear around the house — supercomfy!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
My special spot on the couch… when my Mom came to visit, she decided that was the place for her to sit…. and it was difficult to bite my tongue and be generous…
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Arguments.
4. Can you draw?
Yes, not geometric stuff, but curvy, doodly flowers and paisleys and cats. But try as I may, I have not been able to draw a fierce tiger; they all look like cubs…
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
If I weren’t married I would… 40 to 50 isn’t a big deal. Men do it all the time.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
Auto-catliner. It never shakes and is perfectly symmetrical on both sides!
7. What were you like as a child?
Nerdy, skinny, shy.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
A few days ago.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
Champagne, taupe, gold, copper and teal. I am also loving plum this season… with gold.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? Confessions of a Fat Marathoner by Kristina Burkey — hilarious and inspiring.
Hope you had a fabulous Thanksgiving! Java and Sahara are grateful there is still plenty of turkey to go around!
Hi Natasha,
Aww, lucky Java and Sahara! Did they get gravy too? 🙂
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Yes I love plaid shirts, especially flannel on a cold day.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? Popcorn that’s one of the reasons I like going to the movies alone!
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Arguments I hate conflict too!
4. Can you draw? Fair at best
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? Have and would again if I find myself single again.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? A hair system for a variety of styles at the touch of a button,lol
7. What were you like as a child? Bossy and protective with my younger siblings. Innocent (people used to say that to me all the time) Idealistic and optimistic.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? A few days ago I did a big loose braid in the back of my hair.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? I have brown eyes and I like Golds, Purples, Blues and Greens.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? Poppet by Mo Hayder
Hi Denise,
Hope you had a lovely time with your family over the long weekend! 🙂
I’m the same way about movie popcorn. I always have to get a larger size because I know El Hub will eat about half of it. Do you ever get the kettle corn? I like it, but in small doses. I usually ask for a layer of regular popcorn on the bottom, then a layer of kettle corn, then another of regular popcorn on top. Yes, I like to complicate things, LOL!
Before I complete my weekly poll, which I LOVE (MBBers responses are wickedly funny !), I have to tell you guys that the Naked 3 palette is back in stock at UrbanDecay.com so go forth and shop !!! Won’t last long as it’s selling like hotcakes – I was lucky to score mine when I did…
Anyhoo, here are my answers for the day – hugs to Karen and Tabs, too !
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Yea – a BIG yea. I’m actually wearing a plaid flannel shirt right this very minute !
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? Makeup of any kind, but especially eye makeup. I just DON’T ever, ever share because it’s gross and unsanitary and weird, but I do buy lots and lots for my friends so really no need to share.
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Confrontation, traffic jams, and loud, hey-look-at-me! kind of people. I’m semi-shy and easily embarrassed.
4. Can you draw? Nope, not even stick figures.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? Funny you should ask because I’m dating someone 8 years my junior right now ! So, yes, I’d do a ten year difference
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? Eyeliner that never, ever ran, smudged, faded, or pooled in the corners of your eyes. Even the best of the best, like UD’s 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils or Stila’s Smudge Stick Waterproof eventually end up in the wrong places.
7. What were you like as a child? Quiet, intellectually curious, unusually, annoyingly responsible.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? About 2 weeks ago just to get it out of the way – I’d never wear it out like that, though – I’m waaaay to old to try to pull that off !
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Pinks/roses, metallics in silver, gold, or bronze, just about any shade of purple/plum.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? A great biography of Teddy Roosevelt, one of my favorite presidents.
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Yay!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? Food. Melissa doesn’t share food!
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Confrontations.
4. Can you draw? A bit, but not very well.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? I am 26… so no, I would not date a 16-year-old, ick 🙂
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? Something that would completely eliminate oily skin and would shrink pores! Roaccutane in a bottle basically.
7. What were you like as a child? Very ambitious 🙂
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? This morning.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Oh tough one. I’d say khaki greens and olive shades.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? Not reading anything right now, but the last book I read was The Host by Stephenie Meyer, and I really liked it.
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Yay!!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? I don’t like sharing in general. I’m bad!!
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Talking on the phone.
4. Can you draw? Not very well, I can trace.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? A 22 year old? Probably not.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? A lip color that really is super duper moisturizing.
7. What were you like as a child? Quiet, shy, awkward.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? A few days ago. Air drying and I’ve got things to do.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Neutrals
10. What book are you reading at the moment? I’m reading several knitting and cook books and an Advent devotional.
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? I go through phases. 🙂 And either way, the fit has to be right!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? My time, unnecessarily. Life is too short to waste it on those who don’t appreciate you.
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Temptation.
4. Can you draw? No, I’m terrible! That’s why I turned to photography.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? It depends. Since I’m 30, absolutely not. But if I were 40 or older, sure. 🙂
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? A little instant-makeup box like in Fifth Element that you just hold up to your face and *poof!* all done!
7. What were you like as a child? Boisterous, slightly annoying and very outgoing.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? It’s been years. My fine hair does not look cute at all when you take them out.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Sandy neutral bronzes and purples.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? The Moor, it’s the fourth in a series that explores what if Sherlock Holmes met and married his equal in his retirement years, written from her perspective (a much younger woman). Can’t stop reading them! 🙂
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Yay, but honestly I haven’t owned one since I was a kid in the 90s. I’d try them again though.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? There are certain items in the fridge live-in SO knows is off limits 🙂
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Mistakes. At work, specifically. Can’t look bad as a new attorney!
4. Can you draw? hell no
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? 17 year olds don’t appeal to me 🙂
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? That nail polish changer from the 5th Element. I’m tired of paying people to paint my nails because I’m so inept at doing it myself.
7. What were you like as a child? Super anxious yet I always wanted to be center of attention.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? I HAVE NEVER BRAIDED MY HAIR. Not once. I never knew how! I didn’t have a sister and my mother always had short hair so she knew nothing about long hair.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Neutrals. Things in the brown and bronze family.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? Some book by Julian Fellows, the creator of Downtown Abbey. Can’t remember its name and I’m too lazy to go upstairs and check. I just started it, it’s okay so far. It’s no Downtown Abbey.
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Yay!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
My past, chocolates and sweets
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Backstabber people
4. Can you draw?
Heck no!
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
Hell NO, that would be pedophilia LOL
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
A false lash applicator 😉 but not a cheap one!
7. What were you like as a child?
Really shy.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
Hmmm loooong time ago LOL
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
bright colors 😉
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
Allegiant by Veronica Roth
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Yay! I just bought a gap plaid shirt dress today. I hope it looks cute with leggings and boots.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
Desserts lol And living space. At least at the moment. I’ll eventually adjust when I move in with a boyfriend, but for now, I’m loving living alone.
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Being the center of attention. I’ve been trying to come out of my shell more, but I don’t think I’ll ever enjoy a TON of attention.
4. Can you draw?
Yes! I went to school for illustration and currently work as a graphic designer.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
… That would be illegal I think lol A 16 year old? No thanks.
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
Hm, I can’t really think of anything. I wish there was a legit lotion that could take away redness, and not just cover it up. I’ve tried a ton of them, and they don’t do much.
7. What were you like as a child?
Creative, fun, silly, but somewhat high-maintenance. I had ear aches alllll the time. My poor parents lol
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
Maybe 2 months ago? I don’t do it too often. I should try it more. I like fishtail braids and my hair is mostly long enough to do it, but layers make it weird.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
Browns, olives, plum/dark purples. I stick towards the neutrals/naturals.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
Ugh I have a stack I need to read. I’m picking away at this book called Oh My Gods, and it explains mythology stories in very simple terms. I’ve only read a couple chapters but it’s so good.
1. Yay! I like plaid shirts! You can dress them up or dress them down. Very versatile!
2. I hate sharing food when I’m really hungry lol. Well I don’t really care for sharing food at all really lolol
3. I also try to avoid drama. I don’t like negative energy around me.
4. No. I’m terrible at drawing lol
5. Maybe as a cougar??
6. A super rich, buttery quickly absorbing body butter. My legs are incredibly dry and cracked this time of year and nothing hydrates the way I need it to
7. I was pretty shy and awkward as a kid. I feel like it took me forever to really blossom and open up a little
8. I braided my hair in 2 pigtails while it was damp a month or so ago lol
9. I love earthtones on my eyes. Brown, gold, blue, green, orange, yellow, cream, black, etc.
10. Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual. My book is in storage but I was able to find an eBook online! It’s a great book
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? – Yea! I’m a bit picky about them- I think they can look tacky if the material is cheap or if there are too many/ill-coordinated colors. But overall, BIG YEA!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? – Vehicles. When I didn’t have my own car, it drove me absolutely CRAZY when I had lowest priority of car usage between me and my parents, and then later, between me and my brother. I am really really generous with carpooling and such, but I like knowing my car is going to be in the driveway when I need it, for any whim!
3. What do you try hard to avoid? – Overeating. When I get a craving for something, I’m like a train barreling down the tracks- it’s hard to resist. Even if I know I’m not that hungry, it takes a lot of self-restraint to avoid a bad food choice.
4. Can you draw? – Sort of! Nothing really outstanding, but I am handy with art supplies.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? – At this point in my life, no. (I am 23, so a 13-yr-old is out of the question, illegal, horrifying, just not right!) but one day when I am in my thirties and beyond, yes, I’d consider it. Age is truly just a number, a manmade invention to chart our years… it’s handy, but it doesn’t have tons to do with who a person is and whether they are right for you!
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? – A nail conditioner that grows out your nails until you wash it off! 1/2 hour for a millimeter, 1 hour for 2 mm, and so on.. or something like that! I have a terrible time growing out my nails, and I’ve never liked the prospect of getting acrylics.
7. What were you like as a child? – I was outrageous. And yeah, weird for sure. And VERY bossy with my siblings, but just attention-seeking with my peers and adults. I had no filter, no limits, and was the epitome of “extrovert”. I have gotten a bit toned down over time!
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? – Probably within the week? I braid quite a lot! Cute and fast, no-brainer hairstyle!
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? – I have blue eyes, so I wear lots of taupes, browns, and coppers day-to-day… but I have a shade of blue eyes that really pops with purple shadows! So I have amassed quite the collection of plum, lilac, and lavender eye makeup.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? – This is a bit embarrassing, but I just picked up 50 Shades Freed. I started it a year or so ago, and never finished it. Now I am determined to finish the trilogy! 😛
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Yay. Super cute /preppy, certainly a change from the mundane & ordinary
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
Quality time with negative people
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Sharing quality time with negative people
4. Can you draw?
Not one bit!
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
I doubt it, but never say never. I hope I never have to because I’m happily
married
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what
would it be?
A mascara that made my lashes genuinely look like false lashes
7. What were you like as a child?
Shy
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
A month ago
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
Greens/Browns/Bronzes
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Oh, one day late but, wtheck, I like your polls 🙂
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? Nay. I’m quite chubby and have thickk arms, I look like a lumberjack (not exactly a sexy one).
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? mmm… that’s hard… I think that’d be my shoes, I hate when friends or sister ask me can I borrow this pair? aaargh, I don’t like to think someone else wears my shoes. Yep I’m weird 🙂
3. What do you try hard to avoid? Unpleasant people.
4. Can you draw? Yes! I don’t do it that often , but I’m a pretty neat drawer (if I say so myself)
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? No way! May be when I’m 80…
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? a magic wand! That’d save me so much time!
7. What were you like as a child? A day dreamer. I used to solve all the problem of the World in my imagination 🙂
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? Ages ago. Can’t remember
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? Plums, purples, taupes, khakis and green.
10. What book are you reading at the moment? All boring school related stuff.
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay? — Yay! I’m a country girl at heart, so plaid is a good friend of mine!
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing? — Ice cream. Especially Ben & Jerry’s Americone Dream.
3. What do you try hard to avoid? — Confrontation. I hate fighting.
4. Can you draw? — Not really. But my girlfriend is SUPER artistic.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger? — Haha. I’m not sure. But my girlfriend is 10 years older. 😛
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be? — Something that can highlight and contour my face for me. I can never seem to make it look “natural”.
7. What were you like as a child? — Very bossy/bratty. I was the youngest of three girls and I was NEVER wrong. EVER!
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? — Last night. I braid it when I go to bed to keep it from getting extremely frizzy while I sleep.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes? — Neutrals. Taupes/Browns/Greys. With the occasional turquoise liner!!
10. What book are you reading at the moment? — “What the Dead Know” by Laura Lippman. I just finished her book “I’d Know You Anywhere” and I LOVED it! So I wanted to read something else she wrote. So far, it’s REALLY good!
So, it’s not Monday, but it was BUS-Y! And I’ve missed doing these 🙂 Hope Tuesday is starting out well!
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
YAY! Plaid is SO rad! looks like it’ll be possible to wear it here in the desert, this year. It’s supposed to be 40-ish tomorrow. That’s the day’s high.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
My food. Not just dessert, but food. If we’re at a restaurant, all of my friends offer everyone a taste of their food. When it comes to me, they do an awkward: “you don’t have to share yours, but you’re welcome to try mine.” *sigh* I think it’s a youngest child thing.
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Crowds. I plan my days accordingly: errands must be done right when the stores open, or before kids get out of school.
4. Can you draw?
I’m not fantastic, but I can give it a shot! 🙂
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
I don’t know. Ask me in 10 years, if I’m no longer married. 🙂 The Man is a few days younger than me. (yes, days.)
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
Make up that could just recognize the dry and/or oily parts of my face. I moisturize like crazy, and there are still dry spots, but then there are small parts that get oily. Not much winning. 🙁
7. What were you like as a child?
Quiet. My mom is quite traditional Filipina, so girls have to be girls. I came out of my shell around end of high school/college. My mom does not like the outspoken part of me. LoL
8. When was the last time you braided your hair?
I did a sad braid for my workout, a few months ago. I wish I knew how to french braid my own hair because it’s the BEST way to wear my hair when working out. Annoys me the least!
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
I do not wear much on my eyes 🙂 I like the Neutrogena eyeliner I have. It’s a shimmer brown. But….I have an appointment for the 14th at the MAC counter! I hope I can re-create the eyeshadow look that my artist will create! But I like neutrals: browns, mostly. Subtle, yet can be noticeable.
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
I just finished “Blood Meridian”! I’m going to start “As I Lay Dying” by William Faulkner. I’m excited!
1. Plaid shirts: yea or nay?
Nay. It is my least favorite print.
2. What’s one thing you hate sharing?
Creme Brûlée!! Hands off!!
3. What do you try hard to avoid?
Drama. What an energy zapper.
4. Can you draw?
A bit. I am the least talented artist among my siblings.
5. Would you ever date someone 10 years younger?
If I was single, sure. Why not?
6. If you could invent a beauty product that would make your life easier, what would it be?
I would create a mask that you can peel from the pages of a magazine. You would be able to take a look exactly as shown for the fullface, or just the eyes, or lips and apply them to your face. It would meld to your face and give you that same look. How awesome would that be? You could order the appliqué instead of just the makeup.
7. What were you like as a child?
Serious. A female Sheldon that also wanted to look like Catherine Deneuve while practicing law. Lol.
8. When was the last time you braided your hair? Last summer.
9. What are your favorite colors to wear on your eyes?
Charcoal, pink, brown
10. What book are you reading at the moment?
To Kill a Mockingbird-again