The wrap actually reminds me very much like a cosmetic brush holder, it’s very soft leather, and holds all your pencils safely in your bag, backpack, or even purse. The pouch is quite big and can probably hold at least 15 pencils + brushes, etc etc. Actually, it can probably hold some heavy duty scissors, X-acto knife, Box Cutters, or anything you need for art school . The Leather string to tie it up all is pretty durable, and very easy to use! I love the pink color!

As for my personal review of the pencil, I feel that it’s definitely a great deal. It’s very similar to the Uni-ball Alpha Gel Kuru Toga mechanical pencil, where it as the ability to automatically rotate the lead for very even line strokes and perfect handwriting! However, I do feel that the construction and material/weight of the pencil is quite light, and is a little bit on the cheaper side. I would prefer the Uni-ball alpha Gel much better mainly because of the nice gel handle and the weight helps my hands balance as I draw. In terms of using it as an every day pencil for homework, wireframing, drawing, this definitely does the job! At $7 a pencil, it’s definitely affordable choice for a student who wants perfection in their handwritten works.

From my previous jetpens post, I purchased the Zebra Airfit Jel Ink Pen… that’s actually my favorite pen at the moment, and I literally refuse to let go of it (lost, stolen).. now I have a better way to keep it with me at all times, with Ple Ple Pencil Wrap!

Visit JetPens for all your pen needs! And follow them on facebook or twitter!

1. 
   

   Pens Pens Pens Love! Orders from Jetpens

And there’s oil.

“My face is always so oily so why should I wash my face in more oil?”
– small squeaky annoying voice

Shu Uemura pioneered in this new form of cleanser where using oil helps restore the natural balance of the skin and not strip it away. In 1967, Mr. Uemura made history by introducing the first oil based cleanser in Japan, the reputation of the cleanser gained so much popularity that it became the power brand product. In the 1950’s, an oil-based cleanser was given to film stars, to remove makeup multiple times a day, since stars started to develop sensitive skin from the harsh makeup removers. Oil cleansers contain botanical oils like avocado and jojoba, and it’s a much gentler way to strip oil-based makeup and much more effective.

Most waterproof makeup is comprised of some type of wax, which makes it extremely difficult to remove. I’ve found that waterproof makeup remover wipes or liquids, do not completely remove my mascara, leaving nice black lines on my pillow or waking up looking like a raccoon. If you have a longer lasting all-day wear foundation, if you don’t completely remove the residue from your face, it might cause breakouts if you sleep with makeup on. The oils in the cleanser from Shu Uemura contain 3 moleculary oils that trap the lipophilic residue in waxes and oils in makeup, lipcolor, and foundation. Once the oil is emulsified in water, it encapsulates the residue and lefts dirt, sweat, and other impurities from the pores.

Products now in the mainstream usually heavily market after “grease cutting” or “anti-bacterial” or “ZAP all that excess sebum.” When you strip the oil out of your pores, your skin overcompensates for the lack of moistures and pumps oil to the surface, to replenish what was lost. This leaves you in a cycle of extremely dry, flakey skin followed by an oil slick.

Oil dissolves oil. Let’s start demystifying some points about skin. Pimples, cysts, zits, blackheads, and other pore issues are results of combinations of factors, including hormonal imbalance, dead skin cells, buildup of dirt, bacterial, and or diet. Drinking a lot of water helps release toxins and lessons the load for your skin to push the toxins out. Oil is applied to the top layer of your skin allowing dirt to be dissolved.

There 2 ways to try this method.

First way, DIY.
You can create your own custom blend of oil cleanser, which would be cheaper in the long run, but takes a lot of trial and error to find what is a best fit for you. Here are some suggestions:

Oily Skin: 30%-60% Castor Oil & 70%-40% Sunflower Seed Oil.
Balanced Skin: 20% Castor Oil % 80% Sunflower Seed Oil.
Dry Skin: 10%-30% Castor Oil &  90%-70% Sunflower Seed Oil.

The key here is: Castor Oil. It is the cleanser property and could be drying. The mixes are needed to ensure that the cleanser is not TOO dry and can be diluted. Here are some other oils you can create your perfect blend:

Argan (all skin types, esp aging skin)
Jojoba (all skin types, and acne-prone skin)
Sweet almond (all skin types, especially oily)|
Grapeseed (all skin types, especially oily)
Avocado (dry and aging skin)
Sunflower Seed (all skin types)
Olive (all skin types)

How to actually use it? Well, you pour a puddle of oil into your palm, massage as it will not foam, but start removing the dirt from your face, and wash clean. Make sure you do not mix a regular cleanser + oil cleanser, because that will pretty much confuse and shock your skin.

Second method, just buy the cleansing oil. (I prefer this method)

One thing to note though, it takes a little bit of time for your skin to adjust to this new regimen. Give it two weeks to try it out. When you wash your face with oil, it doesn’t have that “clean” feeling like you would with a traditional cleanser. A number of times I actually wanted to wash my face again with something else because I couldn’t feel the “dryness.” About the cost, it is definitely more expensive than a traditional face cleanser, but you can use less of the product to achieve the same cleansing power. J

Now onto the 3 products I’ve tried:

1. Shu Uemura: cleansing beauty oil
premium a/o advanced formula

 http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/cleansing-beauty-oil-premium-ao-advanced.htm

#1 selling shu uemura product in the world. Contains green tea and gingko leaf extract to ensure anti-oxidant and circulation properties to transform fatigued skin. Increased removability of waterproof mascaras and long-lasting makeup.

$77 / 450ML.

Holy COW. EXPENSiiiiiiive. Yeah. I just started using this to try it out. I have to say though; the oil is actually a lot thicker and more emollient than the two I’ve tried previously. The removability of my mascara is effortless, and it’s great to actually use this product around your eyes without the chemicals stinging your retinas. I am not too fond of the smell because it does smell slightly medicinal. >_< Can’t give you a full verdict yet, but will report later.

2. SK-II ‘Facial Treatment’ Cleansing Oil

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sk-ii-facial-treatment-cleansing-oil/3150331

$60 for 8.4oz

I’ve been using this bottle forever, like almost a year, I’ve only gotten through ¾ of it. It does a good job removing waterproof makeup, and is very very gentle to the face. No foaming action here. I’m not sure if this is one of my must haves, but it does need a bit of time until your skin adjusts to the SKII line. In terms of effectiveness of removing makeup, Shu Uemura out performs this cleanser.

Cheaper alternative from those 2, but could be worse:

Shiseido Perfect Oil

http://www.amazon.com/Shiseido-Senganseka-Hypoallergenic-Perfect-Cleansing/dp/B000FQNOQG

$13.80/150ml
Overall, this cleanser does its job, however some people hesitate to use it because of the large amounts of mineral oil ingredient in this cleanser, and non-botanical ingredients outnumber the actual oil. With the price point, that’s as expected. FYI: Mineral oil is prevalent in baby lotions, and commercial face creams. It has no scent, clear, and doesn’t go bad. It’s a byproduct of the distillation of gasoline from crude oil. It’s also prevalent in baby oil, Vaseline, liquid soap..etc. Too much mineral oil could lead to some forms of nutritional deficiencies. (There are also those who say that small dosages or cosmetic grade of the oily is perfectly safe)

Have you tried different oil cleansers?

1. 
   

   Shu Uemura Haul – Lashes & Creams

2. 
   

   All about False Eyelashes

3. 
   

   The Mascara Report: Quest to find the best mascaras on the market

I have asian lashes. They’re short, stubborn, doesn’t curl, not very long, and always becomes straight after I apply mascara. I had previously gone through lengths to achieve that gorgeous full lashes look by doing eyelash extensions, false lashes, and even applying eyelash growth serum. Truth to be told, there are definitely some mascaras that perform well over the others, and I’m here to share with you some of my mascara investigation!

When buying a mascara it is important to know the types of mascara that is suited for your lashes. It can be quite confusing actually. When you look at all their features it all says it will improve your lashes. Don’t get confused with their formula names or their fancy brushes. Before choosing you need to decide first whether you need waterproof or non-waterproof.

Waterproof Mascara

These types of mascara were created to withstand moisture. Tears, rain, or sweat should be no match with a good waterproof mascara. And it usually can last all day. Removing the mascara is quite hard unless you are using an oil based make up remover.

Non-waterproof Mascara

Although lacking the waterproof property this mascara is still considered by many. Mainly because it can easily be applied. Most specialty types are under this category because of its lighter composition allowing manufacturers to apply more special ingredients.

Lengthening Mascara

Mascaras with fiberous formulas can help you achieve that look, or something like a eyelash primer could also help.

Volume Mascara

These types of mascara have thicker composition to provide the volume effect. It is designed to make your lashes appear thicker. If you have thin lashes this is the way to go. Two coats should be enough when applying this mascara.

Curling Mascara

If using an eyelash curler is not your type, you can use a curling Mascara. This mascara can the eyelashes, which can give you a wide-eyed effect. These types of mascara usually lengthens and curls the lashes that should last for quite some time.

The types of mascara provided above is not limited to a single product. Meaning a mascara can have two features like curling and volume feature. You can try different combination to suit your needs.

The Process:

To be honest, these are the mascaras that I currently own and have not purchased any in the last 6 months. Yes.. god damn. that’s a lot of mascara, like… $400-500 worth of it. I’m glad I can share my findings with you so you don’t have to spend this kind of money in search for your own favorites! My post below will be my honest review, I purchased all the mascaras with my own money, and used my own eyes. Nothing is sponsored on this blog.

Get a good Shu Uemura eyelash curler to ensure a good curl to your lashes. Press down on the lower sections, press again at the midsection and then top part, to ensure a better curl.

All mascaras were applied with 2 coats, to the top clean lashes. I basically rate mascaras based on two things. Volumizing vs. Lengthening. In other instances I would also include in Length of Wear time, as that is very important, but for the sake of this test, I didn’t have time to wear all of these for 6-8hrs and come back with the results. You’d have to take my word for it.

fyi. yeah. I know. It’s kinda creepy to see my own eye at such high def. Kinda creepy. HAHA. . . . ..  . ..  #asianeyes. LOL. These mascaras are not in any order. It’s just in an order where I grabbed them.

1. Chanel Inimitable Mascara

http://www.chanel.com/en_US/fragrance-beauty/Makeup-Mascara-INIMITABLE-89111 

Volume – Length – Curl – Separation : $30

In a single stroke, this mascara delivers it all: volume, length, curl and precise separation. A sophisticated formula and unique brush design combine to deliver lush, long-wearing colour so precisely that each lash, even the finest, is perfectly defined and separated. Pro-Vitamin B5 hydrates and conditions lashes to keep them supple and healthy-looking.

Chanel Inimitable Mascara Before and After

I do like the cleanliness of the brush, but this is more for lengthening, and it didn’t create too much volume for my eyes. In terms of the packaging, it feels very nice to the touch and has a pretty good shape. The wand is ok. Overall, it’s not one of my favorites, despite my loyalty to chanel.

2. HYPNÔSE DOLL LASHES

http://www.lancome-usa.com/Hypnose-Doll-Lashes/10005,default,pd.html

Doll Lash Effect Mascara – Wide-Eye Look. Volumized, Extended, Lifted Lashes. $26

Benefits
•Volumized, Extended, Lifted lashes
•Wide-Eye Effect
•Flirtatious lash fringe for a bold, curved and clump-free finish
•Precise, separated corner and bottom lashes

Technology
•New unique cone-shaped brush for an extremely smooth application, perfect for hard-to-reach corner and bottom lashes

•Nylon bristles combined with the exclusive FiberShineTM formula to sculpt, curl and load every single lash

HYPNÔSE DOLL LASHES before and after

I’m actually quite fond of this particular mascara. It didn’t really do too much in terms of volumizing my lashes, but because of the tapered brush, I could really get inside corners of my lashes and bottom lashes quite easily. It’s also smaller at the end so that no smears could happen. This is definitely a good mascara for bottom lashes because of the shape. I also did not notice any clumping, but in terms of drama. It didn’t really bring any.

3. Max Factor 2000 Calorie
Mascara Dramatic Look

•        Up to 300% dramatic lash volume mascara.
•        Straight Brush.
•        Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

http://www.amazon.com/Factor-2000-Calorie-Mascara-Dramatic/dp/B001GNBW0W

Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara Dramatic Look Before and After

This is a regular drugstore mascara. In terms of lengthing, it definitely performed pretty well, but in terms of volume.. there wasn’t much. However, it held up the curl quite well! Yeah, again.. it’s not really “dramatic”

4. L’Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara

$8.49

L’Oreal presents Carbon Black Voluminous Volume Building Mascara.  L’Oreal’s Carbon Black Voluminous is uniquely formulated to resist clumping, soften lashes, and build lashes to 4X their natural thickness!

•        Unique maximizing formula quickly thickens and builds lashes in a single application for a full and dramatic lash look.
•        Patented Volume Maximizing Brush thickens lashes evenly and smoothly leaving them soft with virtually no flakes, smudges or clumps.
•        Voluminous, formulated with Panthenol and Ceramide-R, protects and conditions lashes leaving them supple and soft to the touch, resisting clumping and flaking.
•        Ophthalmologist and allergy tested.
•        Clump-Resistant.

http://www.drugstore.com/loreal-voluminous-carbon-black-mascara-carbon-black-335/qxp179656

Carbon Black Voluminous Volume Building Mascara Before and After

This is my favorite drugstore mascara. At a price of $8.50, I was sort of convinced to ditch the higher-end mascaras for this one. It is pretty silky for application, and doesn’t clump or flake at all. The brush is quite round, very similar to the Dior ones. I know this is also one of Mario Dedivanovic’s favorite mascaras. I think you can get a thicker coat if you applied more than 2 brushes.

5. Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill mascara

$30

Dress the eye with powerful, plush, voluminous lashes. Fine, fluid Microfil technology creates intensely captivating lash texture. Micro-waxes combined with a fineness agent allow for smooth and easy application, revealing weightless volume and length.

Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner.

http://www.giorgioarmanibeauty-usa.com/eyes-to-kill-mascara/A333,default,pd.html

Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill mascara Before and after

This is one of the heaviest mascaras I have ever encountered. The weight of the packaging feels like it’s made out of steel. Smooth gunmetal steel. It holds the curl of the lash quite well, and the lashes are quickly and evenly coated.

6. Lancome High Deficils

$26

For lavishly long, perfectly defined lashes, this iconic award-winning mascara provides the ultimate in separation. Carefully selected polymers coat each lash from root to tip, to help lengthen and outline each lash for unmatched definition. This best-selling mascara’s unique brush applicator has specially grooved bristles that hold the perfect amount of product for gradual, even application every time.

http://www.lancome-usa.com/Definicils/76805,default,pd.html

Lancome High Deficils Before and After

It’s pretty obvious what you see here. Tiny little combs on the wand that makes it look like a killer brush. And it is a killer brush. It separates the lashes extremely well, and lengthens it. Despite I like the wand, I don’t think the mascara did anything in terms of making my lashes fuller or anything. It looks mediocre at best.

7. HYPNÔSE WATERPROOF

Custom Volume Mascara

$26

Our ultimate buildable volume mascara that increases lash volume up to 6 times is now in a waterproof version with 16 hour wear. Tiny, barely-there lashes are no match for the patented POWERFULL™ brush that intensifies lashes from root to tip with custom volume you can control. The exclusive SoftShield™, waterproof formula, enriched with Vitamin B5, wraps and seals lashes one luxurious layer at a time without smearing, smudging or clumping.

http://www.lancome-usa.com/Hypnose-Waterproof/990628,default,pd.html

Lancome Hypnose Waterproof before and after

Ding Ding Ding! I think we found a winner. The picture prooves it, need I say more?

8.HYPNÔSE DRAMA WATERPROOF

Instant Full Body Volume Mascara

$26

Get instant lash drama in a single coat with this ultra volume-boosting mascara that’ll take lashes from so-so to show-stopping. The full contact brush, with its S-shaped curve, grasps and loads lashes for a fanned out, full body fringe. Lancôme’s luxe Texturizing Complex features highly saturated waxes and intense black pigments for maximum lash volume. The triple coating system delivers a fluid and creamy application to quickly and easily build big, battable lashes that won’t clump or flake.

http://www.lancome-usa.com/Hypnose-Drama-Waterproof/1000618,default,pd.html?dwvar_1000618_color=Excessive%20Black

Lancome Hypnose Drama Waterproof before and after

What can really be better than, Hypnose Waterproof? Of course, Hypnose Drama Waterproof! The new and improved S shape wand really grabs onto my inner lashes and coats the lashes evenly. This is my new favorite mascara, especially of its high pigmentation.

9. Max Factor Volume Couture

$14.99

This mascara’s ingenious, comblike brush spreads the thickening formula evenly onto each lash. The result? Naturally lush, fluttery lashes that aren’t overloaded with mascara.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000OP7SOC/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_2?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B0018QI0EI&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1R0R8FNADQKRQEPAF2DG

Max Factor Volume Couture Before and After

Surprisingly this drugstore brand performs extremely well! Almost like the Hypnose Drama Waterproof! As you can see in the picture though, it does easily get smudged when applying, but I am very happy with the price and value of this mascara!

10. Dior Show Blackout

$25

Dior reinvents mascara by incorporating pro techniques into one ingenious product. Courtesy of Black Fix Complex – a unique blend of deeply saturated pigments – this creamy formula is the first to reproduce the intensity of kohl. Thickening powder adds staying power, while an Arabic gum extract provides a perfect charcoal-like finish and adds to its incredible resistance. Spectacularly intense!

http://www.dior.com/beauty/usa/en/makeup/eyes/mascaras/spectacular-volume-intense-black-khol/py0726100-cmascaras.html

Dior Show Blackout Before and After

Dior Show was one of my previous favorites, so I bought this one to test out the formula. In terms of overall effectiveness, it performs well, but in terms of high-end range, it could be better. It does have good pigmentation and can get the lashes very dark.

11. MakeupForever Smokey Lash

$22

This ultra-pigmented mascara was specially designed to give the lashes an exceptional volume-enhancing effect with infinite lengthening and immediate curling.

http://www.sephora.com/smoky-lash-P217907

MakeupForever Smokey Lash Before and After

This particular mascara, you can immediately notice the lengthening effects of the formula. The intensity is quite black and to me is a very good “all-in-one”!

12. DiorShow Waterproof Mascara

$25

The ultra-glamorous catwalk eye makeup that lengthens, thickens, and curves lashes to the nth degree – now in a waterproof version that holds its own when you swim, splash, or even shed a few tears.

http://www.sephora.com/diorshow-waterproof-mascara-P99901

DiorShow Waterproof Mascara Before and After

DiorShow waterproof mascara is one of my favorite mascaras. It does everything that I want it to do, lengthen, volumize, stays put during the day, and it is my go-to-mascara and my top 3 picks!

13. Yves Saint Laurent MASCARA
VOLUME EFFET FAUX CILS

$30

Yves Saint Laurent MASCARA VOLUME EFFET FAUX CILS Luxurious Mascara achieves an intense, dramatic lash look in a single stroke, for lashes that stop traffic with the blink of an eye. Its secret is the Triple-Film Complex: a film-coating for intensity, a conditioning film for curve, and a fixing film for long-lasting effectiveness.

http://www.sephora.com/mascara-volume-effet-faux-cils-luxurious-mascara-P218400

Yves Saint Laurent MASCARA VOLUME EFFET FAUX CILS Before and After

This particular mascara creates a “fiber-like” substance that enlongages the lashes, making it look you have applied false lashes. Generally I do like this mascara a lot, but if I use it too much, it irritates my contacts/sensitive eyes. I would say it’s definitely a splurge mascara.

14. ‪L’OREAL Ultra-Volume Collagene mascara

$16.60 drugstores

L’Oreal Paris Ultra-Volume Collagene is enriched with a high concentration of Hydro Collagen Complex which expands once exposed, enabling volume-looking lash. The patented formula Wax Complex reaches and wraps every piece of lash for volumized and extended finish. The specially designed brush is flat and wide to perfectly fit Asians’ lash line. Once it brushes over lash, a flying lengthened lash look is performed without clump or smudge.

http://web1.sasa.com/SasaWeb/eng/product/viewProductDetail.jspa?itemno=104076509002

‪L'OREAL Ultra-Volume Collagene mascara Before and After

Another awesome hit for a drugstore mascara! I’m not exactly sure if the $16 price point is correct, I feel like I’ve gotten it for cheaper. Anyway, in general, this mascara is one of the better drugstore ones that definitely LIFTS the lashes and make them appear visibly way fuller. I would definitely purchase this again

15. TooFaced Lash Injection

$21

This exclusive, 3D formula actually builds tubes around each lash. This “Lash Injection” has unique elastic polymers that curl, fatten, and stretch far beyond the natural lash. This adds extreme volume, curl and length for that costly lash extension look without any of the hassle, pain or commitment. You will no longer see clumps and lumps—but long, gorgeous, fluttering, new and improved eyelashes.

http://www.sephora.com/lash-injection-P168368

TooFaced Lash Injection Before and After

I got this mascara as a sample from sephora, and I’ve given it many tries. It really doesn’t do anything for my lashes, and I wouldn’t purchase this for $21.

FYI: I just realized this after writing this post. I actually forgot to review the Givenchy Phenomen Eyes Mascara: http://www.sephora.com/phenomen-eyes-mascara-P218317. I can tell you right now that I really like the new type of applicator wand on that mascara, the colors are extremely rich and dark, and is easy to get in the far corner hairs of your lashes… problem is, it is SO easily smudged and wears during the day. Good try

Final Verdict:

Lower Lashes/ Wide Eyed Look: #2 HYPNÔSE DOLL LASHES
Best Drugstore Lengthening : #3 Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara Dramatic Look or #9 Max Factor Volume Couture
Best Drugstore Volume: #14 L’OREAL Ultra-Volume Collagene mascara
Best High End Mascara : #8 Lancome Hypnose Drama Waterproof or #12 DiorShow Waterproof Mascara

Final Recommendations:

If you have asian eyes, or.. short/stubborn/refuse to curl lashes. This is what you should do:
1. Buy a Shu Uemura eyelash curler, they last forever! Make the jump!
2. Make sure you curl your lashes from bottom, middle and top. Don’t squeeze too hard, or you’ll pull out your lashes
3. Use a WATERPROOF mascara. This is the biggest lesson I learned from my time of mascara hunting. Brush on 1 COAT of waterproof mascara, wait until it fully dries, then apply second COAT. The waterproof ones contains ingredients that help lashes stay in it’s shape, and lasts longer. If you use a non-waterproof mascara, imagine spraying water on your hair.. it will automatically droop down. If you apply small amounts of oil or emollient, the hairs will stick out/stand out/retain it’s shape. Also, it’s always better anyways, who wants their mascara to run??
4. Avoid applying too many coats of mascara, you don’t want spider veins on your eyes.

Drugstore vs. High-end, Is it worth it?

My general feeling towards mascara is that, you have to replace it every 3 months or so. The wand is used close to your eye and can easily become unsanitary after a while. Since I have sensitive eyes, the cost factor is pretty important. I would say go for the drugstore mascaras, which work equally as well as high-end, and you can replace them every 3-4 months. But.. if you want that special something and want to splurge on a designer mascara, that’s nice too

Any mascaras you’ve tried recently that you really love? Please share below!

1. 
   

   How to get Lush Lashes

2. 
   

   Kim Kardashian’s Wedding Makeup Look

3. 
   

   Wash my face with what? Oil?

Instagram: misscatlo
Add me! If you don’t have Instagram. Don’t be lame

Today is March 1st , that means Day 1 “Up”

When I look up into the living room ceiling, I see deflated birthday balloons.

1. 
   

   Day 1 Blog Challenge: A Photo & Description

2. 
   

   Hello Kitty Sephora Haul and Bobby Lee at Caroline’s

3. 
   

   Black Friday Loots & Nov Recap

I just discovered this video last night and wanted to post it up before I forget about it. The video is quite long, but believe me.. it gets good. It’s filled with motivational content about goals, and satisfaction for succeeding for yourself, not others. I have this attitude toward some parts of my life, but not all.

The one that I am severely lacking motivation, I am trying to work on that right now. I said I was going to try to loose weight and I admit, I didn’t know how to face this challenge. I’ll be honest, I have done nothing about it.

In the past, well, quick history lesson. I was a pretty lanky kid. My legs are like Daddy Long Leg Spiders, my upper body is shorter than my lower. I could never touch my toes, but I could always kick rather high. I’ve always been really skinny, abnormally skinny while growing up, thought it was in my genes. My dad is a very skinny guy in general and I never thought I’d get fat. In High School I did a lot of sports, through summers, mornings, afternoons, and nights in every season. My mom made me of course. She wanted me to join something with “a team” to build character, not for weight-loss. That’s where I grown to really like sports. It’s fun and you don’t actually “feel like you’re working out.” I wasn’t addicted to it either, it was such a habit that I do without thinking. I think I was about 97lb-102lb at 5’2 or 5’3.

Freshman year in college was the first time I was not living in my own house, where my mom cooked these extremely healthy but nasty tasting meals. I didn’t really watch what I ate, I didn’t have to go to a sport. I could do whatever I wanted. This story is not new, almost every single person has this same experience. College weight.

Fast forward a couple of years, after graduation and a bad breakup. I lost all the weight in a month from lack of eating or sleeping. Even though my face looked like a zoombie, hell. I was skinny. HAHAHAHA. Unhealthy though. I knew I couldn’t maintain this much longer, and I didn’t really try to.

Now it’s the present time, reality… I find myself extremely inactive, tired all the time, and finding excuses to become more active. I’ve always been REALLY REALLY good at eating healthy food and knowing what you can or cannot eat. I’m too good actually. I’ve spend a lot of time THINKING about going but not ACTUALLY going. Every time I’ve tried, I always failed at the 3rd week. I would give up in a heartbeat, because I never really felt “that serious” about it.

To be honest, I’m not sure if I feel “that serious” about it now. HA HA.

But…. in order to set some new ground rules for myself, in my 2nd attempt to make this a habit, I’m trying out new things. For example, I made an attempt this Monday to go to a Body Combat class at my gym. Yes, I pay for a gym that I do not go to. Very bad. Anyway, after that class kicked my ass – I felt really good. I had way more energy, more alert…and I felt good. I’ve also taken the time to schedule out my exercise plan for the entire month of March, in efforts keep myself in check. Monday’s class was brutal, that was so much kicking and punching that I ended up over exerting and my calves were killing me. I was wobbling like a penguin in and out of my chair at work while coworkers laughed at me, lol.

I shouldn’t of overdone it… it costed me 3 days of rest, unable to hit the gym for those days…to heal up my calves. I will start slow and increase the intensity next time. /cross fingers.

I know I’m breaking rules here, and I am unsure if this method will work not just for me, but with SOMEONE out there. I’m pretty scared of the scale. I never really weigh myself in the past and I’m not about to do it now. (I have been on the scale to know that I’m obese and need help ASAP.) In conclusion, I’m going to measure the amount of success by size.

I measure my arm, waist, top, bottom, in inches and use that as a guide / factor to my weight loss story. I’ve also been keeping this down low/secretive because I don’t want to broadcast something I didn’t have confidence in. I know maybe some of you feel that way too. My goal is to be able to put on a dresses I wore in 2007, about a size 2/4. I’d be happy with a 4, by July 2012. That’s about 5 months right there. I know it’s a long time, but I will try to blog about each month and how I am doing on a monthly basis. (Theoretically speaking, 2lbs/week x 4= 8lbs/month give or take. 5 months x 8 = 40 lbs. yeah. that’s not fking possible. Let’s just shoot for 30lbs). We’ll see how I do, as I want to regain back some of my confidence and dignity. I can’t even look at a mirror in Sephora because i feel so bad inside about it. Pretty extreme I know, you can be your biggest critic.

By July, I want to be able to take a bikini pic. If I think I’m too fat for that, well. I will have lost the battle and hope I have the motivation to keep going. I know some of my friends have announced that goal as well on facebook, I hope all the best!

Thanks for the support ~

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So of course, he gave me 2 dozen roses this year. DOS DOZEN? wow.

What did I do to deserve this? haha.

Therefore, he got DOS games. The two games he wanted pretty bad. UFC3 on Xbox and Twisted Metal on PS3. He played Twisted Metal yesterday while I watched, looks like an insane race/smashing/killing/multitasking type game. I like the art and ruggedness of the UI and the models though.

This is my “ghetto valentine” dinner. Which is a 2 piece Popeyes Meal, dark meat, mashed potato, and grape drank. So fking good. Cheap and good. I’m happy with this. LOL. Who doesn’t like Popeyes, you cray!

Ok yeah. Back to real Valentines Dinner, on me. I felt bad because of all the things he’s done for me and I’d wanted to give back, not just the games. Took him to The Palm for some steak and lobster. (He doesnt eat seafood)

What’s really interesting and gives it an old school NYC Vibe are the awesome illustrations and portraiture of the restaurant. These are really awesome drawings, and covers the entire wall!

This is the reason why I am never eating food again. I was so stuffed that night, I wanted to throw up. That’s how much I ate. So bad. Anyway. This is their famous Nova Scotia Lobster, split in half. The claws are boiled and the body is broiled with clarified butter and light salt. The claws were cracked by the waiter and placed for you to indulge. After I had about 2 claws, i was already full. To be honest, I would much prefer my lobster just in an “inanimate” shape, like.. chunks of meat and not the ENTIRE REAL lobster. The more I looked at it, the more it really reminded me of a cockroach. Very very tasty and scary cockroach. I dont think I’m ever eating lobster again, to be honest. Well, not for a while at least. In case you were wondering how big it is, it’s the smallest lobster you can get, 3 LB-er.

This was my appetizer, before my lobster came. Big Mistake. I shouldn’t of ordered the lobster. HAHAHHAA. I did not know the lobster was going to be so gigantic, and I couldnt share with my non-seafood eating bf. Anyway. These were no ordinary shrimp cocktail, they were shrimp cocktail on steroids. It’s like the schwarzenegger prawn. It’s gigantic, extremely crisp and sweet, very fresh indeed. It’s probably the best shrimp cocktail I’ve ever had in NYC. I would probably just come back to the restaurant to eat shrimp cocktail lol. By the way. The 4 pieces are about $20, so about $5 each. Pricey for this succulent indulgence.

While I thought I was going to be poisoned by the amount of cholesterol I had injested on my seafood feast….. it was time for some cake! I got this cake at Paris Baguette because of the cute BEAR!!!!!! SO CUUUTE The cake wasn’t very tasty though, a let down from Paris Baguette. It’s pretty dry for a chocolate cake. It’s now sitting in my fridge forever.

Another goodie I got for Valentines Day was some sephora items. I got the free “mini” fresh lipbalms for my birthday present, comes in these two tiny tubes of the original Sugar and the new Rose tinted balm. They’re my favorite lipbalms, really heals my super chapped lips, and nothing compares to it’s creamy/easily glides over your lips and heals!

Um and I picked up this lancome palette and lipstick. I am too lazy to check on the name of the color right now, and a blusher. Forgot the name HAHAH. but i mean, as you can tell it’s pretty much light beige + purple + dark black shimmer. I also purchased another bottle of the Dolce & Gabanna Light Blue perfume, my go to perfume!

Speaking about Lancome products. I’ve only started purchasing from them because of Michelle Phan. After owning a couple of the eyeshadows and lipsticks, here’s my initial commentary about this brand.

1. I am still skeptical if the skin products actually works. I haven’t had any luck with any of them. Genifique broke me out, read my past post here… and their “miracle” eye makeup remover – it’s good, better than Estee Lauder, but I’m not sure if it’s better than Shisheido eye makeup remover OR even the Shu Uemura one. Still deciding.

2. Regarding their makeup eyeshadows and blushes. The palettes are quite expensive, about $49 per pop. With that price range, you could buy a Dior or a Chanel or YSL.. I feel that the color, texture of the shadows are good, blendable… and it’s a little better than Chanel’s in terms of hardness/softness of the color..but the downfall of these is the packaging. You are not really getting more product out of these than the others, but the packaging is really cheaply made. There’s absolutely no weight to them, they feel plastic.. and they feel like they could crack if you stuff them into a heavy traffic makeup bag. They’re very lightweight, and I have not tested if they actually “hold up” to travel and daily use. We’ll see Lancome.

1. 
   

   Valentines Day Giveaway – Win Philosophy’s “Sweet On You” Set [CLOSED]

2. 
   

   Review: Lancome Color Design Shadow & Liner Palette

3. 
   

   My Picks for The Sephora VIB Sale 2011

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HA. except I dont write many things THAT meaningful….. . .. .  yet!

I’ll be honest, turning 28 was not something I expected. What are you suppose to be doing when you 28? Nothing really different from when you are 27 right? Except now – you feel older…and approaching the big 3-0. I’m pretty sure these are my insecurities of late, but I feel like being 28 really gives you a new perspective on things that you haven’t noticed before. For example: I never noticed how many people are getting super serious in their relationships that they’re having babies now. I didn’t notice that I’ve only taken 1 real vacation in my whole life up to now. I’ve also did not notice that my face looks way worn and tired/fatigue than when I was 24. I’ve also noticed now that I’ve put on way too much “happy” weight that I really need to start getting back on track.

Every beginning of the year, I would make a huge effort on making a dedicated, serious yearly resolution. This year – I’m not sure what happened. Its the first time in 5 years that I didn’t feel like there was one goal that was absolutely necessary and essential, more or less just a “keep going” or “refresher”. Am I really at that place? A place where I am beginning to feel at ease and content with everything? Only if I knew the answers to that.

Back to blogging. I promise I’ll update more. In the meanwhile though, I’ve been pretty active on Twitter, Instagram (username: misscatlo), Flickr, and I’m trying to get “INTO” pinterest, but not sure if it’s working. Connect me!

Morning: I had to go to work on my bday, since it’s on a Wed. -_-” At work, I was surprised because Will sent me this flower bouquet shaped like a bday cake! Then later my coworker surprised me with a cake at work. I was so surprised and touched.

What was left of the cake lol

Evening, Will took me to the River Cafe for dinner, beautiful place!

When I got home. surprise surprise again!! hello kitty balloons and another CAKE! O_O

Oh, and I also got a promise ring, well it looks like an engagement ring, but it’s not an engagement, so don’t congrats me. lol. basically I dont like the designs of promise rings (so cheesy).. so I picked what I liked. Don’t worry. I’m sure my real wedding ring will be much bigger MUAHHA.

Thanks to a great birthday everyone, and to my bf, who spent a fortune on me. We also went to Carolines to see Yannis Papas aka Maurica. That was the funniest show I’ve ever seen at Caroline’s.

If you never heard of Maurica, check out this video:

1. 
   

   After July 4th Recap.

2. 
   

   this is why I’m fat, food part 1

3. 
   

   Thoughts about turning twenty-seven

1. 
   

   Birthday Recap

2. 
   

   Thoughts about turning twenty-seven

3. 
   

   After July 4th Recap.

Here was my 2010 resolution and overview. Out of the 4 major resolutions, I was almost successful in 2/4 of them.

OVERVIEW OF 2010.
Added 90 friends on facebook
167 friends posted on my timeline on facebook
90 friends posted on timeline for bday
Ended my job at Yext in May, and started working at Lot18
May 5, 2011 My mom said “I’m proud of you”
Bought a DSLR camera, took some pics
September took my first vacation of my life to Maui, Hawaii
Got my first iphone, goodbye blackberry!
First baby was born in our family. Alex!

The best memories..
Maui, Hawaii. One of the most amazing places I have ever been to!

Things I would like to have in 2011 that I lacked in 2010..
Don’t take everything so seriously. Need to practice anger management and patience skills. Don’t be so snobby, and don’t expect so much from people. I may be a perfectionist, but not everyone can be one.

My biggest achievement of the year..
Was able to pay $11k towards my credit card bills.

I wish I would’ve done more of..
Relaxing and have a more balanced life. Have time to cook, exercise, and work.

I wish I would’ve done less of..
Yelling at my boyfriend and making him feel bad all the time.

Something I wanted and got..
wanted to take my first dedicated vacation of my lifetime, and I did

A valuable life lesson I learned in 2010.
Life is hard, sometimes you have to take few steps back to move forward. not everything can go your way and people cannot do everything you want them to do. This will make me mad, but I have to find a way to deal with it. Compromise is hard in every situation, with your parents, friends… but i hope we’re all going towards the same goal.

and resolutions are coming… have to put that together after some champagne! Happy New Year 2012!

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   I’m sorry…I’m breaking up with you…

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   Warm Weather in NYC last Friday