You might be wondering, “So what in tarnation is this Monday Poll thing anyway!?”
Well, it isn’t exactly a poll. It’s more of a constantly evolving (devolving?), somewhat random list of questions I’ve been putting out to readers every Monday morning for the past eight (!) years. (It’s like a kickstart for your brain.) I’ve always enjoyed reading your answers in the comments, and I hope you enjoy reading mine.
- What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
LOL! My underwear. My mom got me a six-pack of undies last time she went to Costco. They’re basic black and cotton — no frills or lace or anything fancy at all. But they’re super comfy.Oh, and I don’t know if this is just something my parents do, but my mom will call me, like, 10 times from inside the store to ask if I need — whatever it is — a case of coconut water, a large rotisserie chicken, a 192-pack of diapers for Connor, a new sweatshirt, a box of 200 batteries, what have you. It’s so funny and cute!
- What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re currently wearing?
A creamy pinkish nude called Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Naked (coming out in June). It’s moisturizing and — I know this sounds a little odd — but I can wipe it off easily.
Why, exactly, is this important?
Well…because when I kiss Connor, I don’t like to leave makeup on her, and I usually remove whatever I’m wearing on my lips before I shower her with kisses. Lipgloss is too sticky and takes a while to remove, as do mattes and long-wearing liquids, so I’m all about creamy lipsticks that I can wipe off just like *that*.
- What do you find irresistible?
I wish I could say something interesting like “home decor,” because maybe then I’d have more than two pictures up on my walls and lamps I don’t despise, but alas, no. This homegirl is all about the shoes.GIMME ALL TEH SHOES!!
It’s been a lifelong struggle…
- Is life fair?
My inner optimist really, really wants me to say “Yes, life is fair,” but it’s hard to ignore the voice of my (often annoying) inner realist who says that, no, it isn’t. This is something that took me a long time to accept/figure out.All we can do is the best we can. That’s all we can do.
- Teacher or student?
Hmm… This is a tough one! I do like teaching and helping people, and I love that feeling when you see someone figure something out that you’ve had a hand in helping them with, but I also really enjoy being a student (I was an old-school nerd back in the day).I could happily spend all day sitting in a classroom learning, seriously, whatever.
So I guess I’ll go with “student.”
Your turn. 🙂 Just copy and paste the following questions into a comment with your answers. I look forward to reading ’em!
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
3. What do you find irresistible?
4. Is life fair?
5. Teacher or student?
Heya, sweet girl! Happy Monday to you. I’m wiping my brow as I type this because this morning I had a moment of panic when El Hub said the following terrifying words: “The electricity is out.”
Terrifying because I had not yet made my coffee.
“Buuuuuut, how am I gonna make coffee?!” That was the first thought that crossed my mind.
Thank goodness the power wasn’t out long… I’m on my second cup now, so I feel almost human.
Huzzah! Three cheers for coffee! 🙂
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
1. My t-shirt from the 5K I ran in April.
2. My liquid foundation from Walmart.
3. My husband being sweet to my boys.
4. Oh hell no.
5. Student. I already know my story, I prefer to learn about everyone else’s stories and experiences!
The foundation is Fit Me by Mabelline. I love it!
Thanks for filling out the poll today, Jaclyn! Have a great week. 🙂
1. The newest article of clothing I’m wearing is a mixed tone bracelet that I got in a subscription box. I can’t decide if I like it, but it is versatile.
2. The Naked Skin One and Done Hybrid Complexion Perfector – it is great for the summer since it has SPF and is long-lasting and light-weight
3. Books
4. Definitely not
5. Can I be both? Technically, I’m a teacher by profession, but I’ve also found that continually learning is important to teaching :).
Hi Terri,
How are you? It’s been a while! I hope that things on your end are good. 🙂
By the way, Urban Decay’s having a 20% off sale on their website right now. Might be a good time to stock up on a couple bottles of One and Done!
Hi Karen,
I hope you and your family are all well! I’ve been loving the updates on Connor Claire :). Things on my end are going well – the college I teach at just started the second week of summer break, which means things are a little less crazy.
Thanks for the heads-up on the UD sale – I’ll have to check it out.
Hi Terri!
We’re doing better now that we’re getting more sleep. Those first 6 weeks were rough! Now that she’s sleeping throughout the night I’m less inclined to feel like a crazy pants, LOL!
Are you doing anything fun during the break? I hope so.
P.S. If you haven’t tried it already, Urban Decay Cannonball Waterproof Mascara is REALLY great. Lots of length and curl hold and very, very waterproof.
Hi Karen,
I’m so glad that Connor Claire is starting to sleep more – sleep deprivation can be rough (especially when you are recovering from pregnancy and trying to care for a newborn)! Tell her to keep it up :).
This summer is going to be pretty busy – I have some research that I need to do, and I’m supervising a student’s research project. I also get to go to Boston for a conference and to see friends, and I’m visiting Tennessee to see my family. All in all, it is a nice balance of work and play.
Thanks for the mascara recommendation – I’m always looking for a good mascara, especially one that is waterproof or water resistant (I tend to have watery eyes, so regular mascaras tend to smudge when I wear them).
Have a great evening, and take care!
Glad you got your power back. My favorite meme from last week was the cat that said “First I drink the coffee. Then I do the stuff.” 🙂
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
Nothing new today but last week was my May Stitch Fix delivery so I was rocking red cropped chinos and a sleeveless blouse with an embroidered front. I can’t believe I actually really like the red!
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today? Nothing new on today. I’m getting ready to switch to bronzer for the season soon. I’m already doing the tanner once per week but just on my legs.
3. What do you find irresistible? A hike in the woods.
4. Is life fair? Noooo. But I try to look on the bright side as I have a lot to be thankful for.
5. Teacher or student? I graduated with my master’s in 2009 so that’s when I stopped being a student. I volunteer at a farm that teaches kid’s programs so I would say teacher in that role.
Me too! Otherwise I’d be zombie Karen right now, haha! That’s cool that you’re still doing Stitch Fix. I desperately need new clothes (my maternity clothes are too big, and my regular clothes are too small) so maybe now is the time to finally sign up. 🙂
Oh, and what did you get your master’s degree in?
Hi Karen!
I got my master’s in business. My undergrad was much more interesting (and fun) and was in Communications. 🙂
Stitch Fix is perfect for a new mom! My CFO at work was just saying how well everything fits (she’s a Mom of 3). I have to agree on the fit–it’s really spot on. You would also let your stylist know your favorite stores (LOFT etc.)where they can draw inspiration from.
I like the idea of Stitch Fix because I don’t have the time/energy to go cruising ’round the mall. 🙂 How often do you find things that you like enough to keep?
Good morning Karen,
Great question! I keep 3-5 items per fix. If you keep all 5 you get 20% off. The $20 styling fee is credited towards whatever you buy. You set the pricing parameters when you set up your profile. I do the every other month (which I suggest versus every month). I give feedback via my checkout screen (to let them know what I’m keeping and what I’m sending back in the pre-paid envelope–super easy process). I also fill in the request section to let them know what I’m looking for in my next fix. My next fix is July so I requested a pair of comfy sandals and a summer purse. 🙂 You can also cancel at any time without penalty. Let me know anytime you have other questions. 🙂
I mean if you keep all 5 you get 25% off. Shipping is free both ways.
Thanks, Leah! This was really helpful. Are the brands that they provide designers who you’re familiar with? Or are they more like indie brands?
Happy Tuesday to you!
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
I’m wearing leather platform sandals that I got a few weeks ago.
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
Benefit They’re Real mascara. I’m trying to find a new mascara to love, and this looks really nice but it’s so hard to remove!
3. What do you find irresistible?
Fluffy animals!
4. Is life fair?
Nope.
5. Teacher or student?
I love doing both!
Hi Chelsea!
Welcome back! How was vacation?
Rainy, but good! We had a good time at the park.
Bummer about the rain. Was it warm, at least?
Definitely warm! We’d had snow in the previous week here in Michigan due to some freak weather, so it was nice.
I don’t mind rain when it’s warm outside (reminds me of Hawaii!). What was your favorite part of the trip?
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing? Currently not wearing snything new, but i bought a gorgeous olive green trench and black espadrilles from Club Monaco
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today? A mascara from a brand called “Seventeen” in the UK. looks fab but my eyes are burning!!
3. What do you find irresistible? MAC counters!!!
4. Is life fair? I agree with every word Karen wrote. It’s more unfair to some than others also.
5. Teacher or student? Both!! I love to learn new things and also teach what I know!
Karen, did you get your coffee?!
Hi Lauren,
Yes, I finally did! It was delicious — vanilla creme brulee!
How’s it going on your side of the pond? Anything new to report? Things here are noisy because Connor’s recently taken her ability to cry to the next level. I say she’s “exercising her lungs”. HAHA!
Hi Karen!!
So happy you had your coffee…without caffeine my day is shot! Is Connor Claire letting you sleep more in between her “eh’s”?
Depends on the day here! Some days are very hard while others are jam packed and fun. It does seem to be getting a bit harder though…I think reality has set in. Thanks for asking!! ❤
Hi Lauren,
We got really lucky in that Connor’s a pretty good sleeper these days. She now sleeps between 7-9 hours every night, and she does it pretty consistently. We’ll see how long this lasts, though! I’m sure it’ll all get crazy again once she starts teething. ?
I’m glad to hear that you’re having some good days. Are you making any friends?
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing? My Shoes
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today? Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Foundation
3. What do you find irresistible? black licorice
4. Is life fair? In the end. yes.
5. Teacher or student? Both.
Hi Pixiewitch!
How are you liking that Tarte foundation? They make a tinted moisturizer that I like, and I’m thinking of giving that foundation a go.
Happy Monday!
i am liking the foundation so far. the only issue i have had is the dropper bottle (not a pump) its kind of messy and it accumulates around the neck of the bottle. i normally wear MAC Prolongwear that i love but this Tarte Foundation has gotten so many rave reviews i had to try it. Happy Tuesday!
Happy Tuesday to you too! I hope you’ve been having a good one. I just got back from SF; I had to drive into the city to pick up Connor’s birth certificate.
Anywho, I like foundations with droppers (they tend to feel light on my skin, which I’m into!), so I’d probably like this one, too. I’m going to grab a sample next time I hit up Sephora. What do you usually set it with?
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
Hmmm I guess my long-sleeve, turtle-neck charcoal T-shirt. I got it at Old Navy less than a year ago.
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
Lancôme Cushion Blush in Orange Splash and girl, this is SO pigmented! I pressed waaayyy too much out of the cushion this morning so I looked like a clown, I had to blend with my foundation brush for a while. It was my first time using it!
3. What do you find irresistible?
Any food containing chestnut.
4. Is life fair?
It’s neither fair nor unfair. Fairness is a construction of the mind that implies intent. Life doesn’t decide to screw some people more than others. Luck, coincidence, our attitude and the consequences of our own actions set things in motion. In the end fair or unfair is just a judgement call.
5. Teacher or student?
Student! I love to learn. I’m definitely a nerd!
Hi Lulle,
That blush sounds like it’s fun to work with! Have you tried applying it with a skunk brush? I bet that would make it easier.
A skunk brush? Do you mean a dual-fiber brush? That’s what I use to apply foundation so that’s also what I used to blend it out, and it worked well! But at first I used the included sponge to dab color on my cheeks and… OMG!
Yup! I can’t remember where I first heard the term. I’m assuming they call it that because it’s black and white. Anywho, yeah, those brushes are so great for cushion compact products! 🙂
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
A green tee. It got ruined the day I got it a few weeks ago by dog claws. So it’s become an around the house shirt.
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
The only color I’m wearing is on my lips! Fresh Berry, tried and true.
3. What do you find irresistible?
Food? I really enjoy food so I’m always up to try something new. Beautywise, lipstick and facial oils.
4. Is life fair?
F*ck, no. I’m the wrong person to ask though as it seems my life was doomed from day one.
5. Teacher or student?
I’ve been both and will continue to be for the rest of my days.
1. Newest item is my Fitbit and since it is on my wrist I consider it clothing. Lol
2. Newest makeup is IT Celebration Illumination Foundation
3. Irrestible is our little Maltese Mix Rescue dog that is a tripod
4. Life fair?? It is what we make of it. Sometimes fair and sometimes unfair
5. Teacher or student? Love to learn so a student
Hi Sandy,
Your dog sounds like a cutie pie! How old is she (or he)?
Karen, she is 7 years old and we have had her 3 1/2 years. She was hit by a car and the second owner insisted the first owner take her back. She had an amputation and went into a rescue group where we were lucky enough to adopt her. Her name is Ruby and she is all of 8 pounds. A Maltese/Shih Tzu mix.
Aww, sweet Ruby! Every pet I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing was a rescue and it always makes me happy to hear about other people’s stories. I’m glad she was lucky to find her forever home with you.
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing? A pair of CW-X compression tights to wear while working out in the gym.
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today? Chanel Levres Scintillantes Aqua Glossimer in Dzhari. I’m supposed to be on a “no buy” this year, but I just couldn’t resist this color.
3. What do you find irresistible? Shoes and lip colors. Also, cats, horses and dogs. I’d have a menagerie if we owned a bigger place.
4. Is life fair? Nope, no way. Sometimes it’s not fair against you and sometimes it’s not fair in your favor. You just have to learn to deal with it and not gloat when things go your way.
5. Teacher or student? A little bit of both, but mostly teacher because I’m bossy that way.
OMG, No Coffee???!!! No way. I could not deal with that. I’ve taken to cold brewing a huge batch of coffee concentrate and keeping it in my fridge. That way I can dilute it and either warm it up on the stove or in the microwave or have it iced. But it’s always there, mostly ready to go.
I was seriously freaking out for a second there! Thank goodness the electricity came back on, otherwise I would’ve had to walk down the street to get desperation coffee at the gas station.
How are you liking your Aqua Glossimer? Isn’t the texture just lovely?
Loving this Aqua Glossimer. Wish it was a tad more evenly pigmented, but I’m still in heaven. Even Dear Husband noticed the color and complimented me on it, when we went out to dinner last night.
Gas station coffee. Urg! There are three Starbucks within a five minute walking distance of my house. If I open that walking radius to 15 minutes there are probably another dozen coffee shops or cafes. My problem on my morning run is deciding where I’m going to stop for my infusion of rocket fuel on the way home.
If I had a Starbucks that close to me I would seriously be there every five minutes. Whatever addictive magic they have going on in their lattes freaking works!
I hope that they make those Aqua Glossimers permanent because they’re so great. Did you pick up anything else from summer? I need to get that green nail polish, gah!
Hey Karen! Long time, no filling out! I had my horse show on Friday and got second! Honestly, I must have a second show curse as one of the horses got into Scooby’s personal space and he kicked out saying, “MY SPACE! MY SPACE! GET OUTTA MY SPACE!” (I admit, last year I definitely didn’t know about Scooby’s personal space thing so it was my fault. This year, the person on the other horse was definitely to blame. I definitely was trying to get Scooby out.) After that, Scooby was too squirrely and would NOT whoa. So, second. I can live with it.
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
Like you, undies, but even those are older in terms of clothing.
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
I haven’t put on makeup yet as I just woke up really!
3. What do you find irresistible?
The horses at the NFP I go to and Zena. She is slowing down but she’s still a dork.
4. Is life fair?
It’s not; after all, there will always be people born into a life of luxury and one not. One’s born with no physical problems and one’s with.
With that in mind though, life and “being fair” is how you make it. I may not have been to the places my rather wealthy cousin has, but I was taught charity, humility, and respect from a young age – all things he had to learn as a teen. “Wealth” isn’t just about money, it’s about the non-tangible things too.
5. Teacher or student?
I’d rather be the student! I am not a teacher personality. I get fed up so easily.
Hi Kate (and Zena),
Congrats on getting second in your horse show. That’s awesome! What was your favorite part of the competition?
Just wanted to say that I smile every time I see a new post from you – it makes me happy 🙂
1) Just got back from Vancouver where I tried a couple of makeup lines that aren’t widely available in the States: Lise Watier, Gosh and Edward Bess. So last new thing I used was an Edward Bess creamy satin lipstick, which is full coverage and feels good on, but isn’t really long lasting. It’s also rather pricy: CAD$44. The Lise Watier Baiser Satin is half the price – it’s an opaque, matte liquid lipstick that goes on smooth & is made in Italy to boot
2) I wear mostly BCBG so packed a new dress for the trip plus a Lark n Ro cropped cardigan to go over everything
3) Puppies, kittens and babies are hard to beat! Also beautiful flowers. If you’re ever in British Columbia check out the glorious Butchart garden
4) I’m an optimist so to me life isn’t fair or unfair. It’s just what I make it
5) I vastly prefer to be a student. I learn something new from someone like you everyday!
Hi Kim,
Ahh, I love Vancouver. I visited back in 2011 and fell in love with the city. Did you go eat at any good restaurants? I remember having so much fun eating my way through the city.
As you know they have great sushi up there. One that stands out is a little hole-in-the-wall place called Green Leaf Sushi in Kitsilano. We also took the ferry over to Tofino where we ate at Shelter. Outstanding appetizers, plus the best looking (French Canadian) waiter we’ve ever seen! Not a bad way to end the day.
I was just looking at the pictures I took of the city during my trip and seriously, I need to go back! I would love to live there someday, even if it’s just for a little bit.
Thanks for the restaurant recs. When I make it back there (someday!) I’ll hit both those places up cause I could eat sushi for DAYS!
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing? I don’t know…everything I’m wearing today is pretty old. Maybe my T-shirt? I think I got it last spring.
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today? MAC x Chris Chang Lipstick in Plum Princess. I just got it today. LOVE!!! It’s such a unique color. Even with all my purples, I didn’t have one like this.
3. What do you find irresistible? Children and animals.
4. Is life fair? Absolutely not!
5. Teacher or student? I love to learn from a good teacher. I’d rather teach than be taught by a crappy teacher, though.
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
My Orange dress
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
my taupe eyeshadow I use as a contour on my cheeks
3. What do you find irresistible?
Dogs
4. Is life fair?
Not always
5. Teacher or student?
Teacher
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
A pair of pants about 4 months old.
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
None – clean face today.
3. What do you find irresistible?
Shetland sheepdogs.
4. Is life fair?
It’s not just unfair, it’s grotesquely unfair. I’ve known that since I was 10 years old.
5. Teacher or student?
Student.
Your post reminded me that didn’t wear lipstick for four or five years because of the kid-kissing issue!! I missed the lippies, but it made them even more fun once kindergarten hit. 🙂 You probably have a better solution – quick-wipe lippies!
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
I WISH it were undies! Really need some. Instead, a striped dress from artful home. Never shopped there before, and may never again, but love this particular dress.
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
If skincare counts, tarte under the sea moisturizer (based on Jessica’s review and Anna’s brand endorsement!). It’s really nice and has a great texture. If just makeup-makeup counts, then it’s a tie for the TF quad splurge (sparkly neutrals, based on your review of the brand) and maybelline eyeshadow stick (pink, based on Adia’s review!).
3. What do you find irresistible?
My husband’s way with animals. People with a lot of purity and unselfishness who also have street smarts. Cold orange slices. Arnold Palmers. Anyone being kind to others in an unexpected, uplifting way.
4. Is life fair?
It’s not what comes our way but how we respond. Then we can grow and move ahead no matter what life dishes out.
5. Teacher or student?
Both!
LOL, Amy, I just wiped my lipstick off so I could kiss Connor. 🙂 How old is your son now?
Oh, and your answer to question three is so sweet. I remember you mentioning that your hubby carried cat treats just in case he met strays…So sweet!
He’s nine. So big!
That’s so sweet you remembered my hubs giving treats to strays.
Have a beautiful week! 🙂
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
A red Wonder Woman t-shirt
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
The only makeup I wore today was a Wet ‘n Wild lipstick in Cherry Picking.
3. What do you find irresistible?
A great lipstick or fragrance.
4. Is life fair?
Absolutely not! Those who work hard get “rewarded” with more work while the slackers/incompetent ones get less work.
5. Teacher or student?
Teacher. I like to share the knowledge I’ve acquired with others.
1. What’s the newest article of clothing you’re currently wearing?
Yoga pants. My mother gave them to me, because I did a yoga challenge.
2. What’s the newest piece of makeup you’re wearing today?
A pixi lipstick I am testing for weartime.
3. What do you find irresistible?
Sweets?
4. Is life fair?
No. But it is unfair to everyone, so that is fair I guess.
5. Teacher or student?
Teacher. I used to make my younger sisters play school for hours.