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YSL Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils Shocking

December 6, 2013 by

YSL-faux-cilisI may not have been born with extra long lashes, but at least with this mascara, I can pretend. For $30 USD, I bought this from Sephora in Deep Black. As you can see from the picture above, while my lashes are not the shortest, they could use some help. YSL Shocking mascara is unique in that it moisturizes your lashes so that when you take your mascara off, your lashes don’t feel stiff and brittle. The mascara is quite wet and can clump if you don’t take your time. With one application, you see an immediate difference in my lashes. The smell isn’t overwhelming or overpowering and my lashes appear longer and thicker, saving me the hassle of having to wear false lashes.

What it is:
A mascara that exaggerates lashes with excess volume from every angle. 

What it does:
Exclusive to YSL, the amplified helix brush provides instant volume to the lashes. The slim brush design allows for perfect control and precision and the off-center twist enhances length and curl. The beautifully creamy formula with pro-vitamin B5 coats each lash evenly, creating a thick and lustrous fringe with a wet look.

Review Recap:

  • Price: $30 USD
  • Availability: Sephora or wherever YSL is sold.
  • Selection: You can find this in 4 different colors – deep black, black bronze, sea black, cherry black. Also available in regular and waterproof.  •
  • Overall: While the price is around the average for other designer brands, it’s a lot to swallow for a mascara. The product is much wetter than I remembered from the last time I purchased it, and if you aren’t careful it will clump, making your eyes look a mess. When applied properly, the mascara does everything it claims it will do, lengthening and volumizing your lashes. The price and the “wetness” of this product definitely take away from a perfect score, but because I’m familiar with the product, it’s still something I would buy again. 
  • Rating: B
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The Walking Dead: S4.E1 Recap

October 15, 2013 by

30 Days Without An Accident

The wait is officially over and Season 4  is here! I decided to summarize my thoughts on the season premiere via my twitter reactions and what stuck out in my mind.

Right from the get go, I had consistency issues with season 4.

 

 
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See, no crutch and he’s not hobbling at all.

Then there was the chick, Clara, Rick met in the woods. I think everyone’s creepy radar went off. I made a prediction about her:

 

— Nat (@agirlnamednat) October 14, 2013
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Check out what two of my friends and I thought about her.

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Especially in this shot!

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Through their conversation, we learn there are three questions everyone is asked before they are allowed to enter the prison. This is a huge change from Season 3 until the end of the season when Rick decided people could come to them.

 Three Questions

1. How many Walkers have you killed?

2. How many humans have you killed?

3. Why?

 

Carol and Daryl have a moment. A very flirty moment. Not once, but twice!

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My hope of Caryl being a thing is nearly a reality!

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Daryl leaves with a group to go to a store and get supplies.

 

— Nat (@agirlnamednat) October 14, 2013

 

 

 

— Nat (@agirlnamednat) October 14, 2013
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Everything goes downhill fast when a newer member of the prison crew walks past a section filled with alcohol. One thing leads to another and the racks come crashing down, trapping him under it. My thoughts on the matter:

 

— Nat (@agirlnamednat) October 14, 2013

 

This did lead to a kick ass fight sequence

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And the ultimate zombie death

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This filled my twitter timeline with people singing:

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Finally, the episode is winding down and I get the answer to Herchel and his leg. We see him with a prosthetic.

 

— Nat (@agirlnamednat) October 14, 2013
Sadly for me, the show wasn’t as great as I hoped it would be. I guessed Clara was talking about her husband, who was a walker. She would feed him…well his head because that’s all that was left of him.

 

— Nat (@agirlnamednat) October 14, 2013
We were introduced to Patrick, who happens to be Phineas of Phineas of Ferb. He was a member of the Daryl Dixon fanclub and awesome in a nerdy sort of way.

The Walking Dead -- Pictured: Vincent Martella

And then, in a seriously screwed up twist, he died.

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Here we see Patrick so hot with fever, you can see his footprints when he walks through the prison. He decided to take a shower to cool off, but naturally went into a coughing spell. RIGHT. OVER. THE. WATER. SUPPLY.

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 I think he’s infected with whatever infected the pig. ZOMBIE SWINE FLU!

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Dead Ever After– Is Parting Such Sweet Sorrow?

May 13, 2013 by

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This book marks the end of the journey for Charlaine Harris’ Sookie Stackhouse Novels AKA The Southern Vampire Mysteries that HBO’s True Blood is based. There are quite a few novels and I’ve read them all – many of them more than once to revisit the characters in between the show’s hiatus, but there are only so many things poor Sookie can go through before the story line becomes redundant.

I will not give the story line away – I will however, tell you that I was completely let down. Charlaine Harris posted on her Facebook that this is the ending she has thought about since book 2, but it’s not an ending she prepared her readers for. Based on the previous 13 books (including the Sookie Stackhouse Companion), this book was a slap in the face.

I felt emotionally drained at the end of the novel because my blood boiled so much. I felt betrayed because the story line was null. Out of the 300+ pages, I noticed in the last two books Harris wrote, most of it was filler. She would say, “I washed my hands,” and spent pages explaining how Sookie would cook dinner and clean her house – providing no information that moved the story along and gave me an opportunity to put the book down or skip paragraphs because nothing was learned. If the stupid filler was eliminated, each book would have probably been 120 pages. Another thing that bothered me is that Harris spent the novel TELLING us everything instead of SHOWING us what was going on. The icing on the cake was that she wrote almost every page in passive tense. The gif below sums up my feelings 100% as I finished.

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What’s sad is Harris created this amazing world for us in Bon Temps, LA where supernaturals exist and Sookie Stackhouse was kicking ass. Married by vampire standards, Sookie had quite an exotic life to look forward to, however with the end of the last book, I knew things weren’t going to go as planned. I had hope that Harris wouldn’t let her readers down like that, but in the end, she did just that.

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As shown above, the inside of the book lets you know all of Sookie’s loves (both past and present) will make an appearance. To me, the entire book felt forced. She tried to end the series by tying up her loose ends and giving us details on each of the characters (there are a lot because she has a tendency to introduce way too many new ones in each novel) even though for some, we honestly don’t care. After I finished this novel, I found out this really isn’t the end – Harris has found another way to squeeze more money out of her adoring Sookie fans by releasing a novella, After Dead: What Came Next in the World of Sookie Stackhouse, due to be released October 29, 2013. I’m guessing it’s the epilogue, where I hope beyond hope the ending changes for Sookie. Eternal optimist, I know because this ending just SUCKED. I’ve already pre-ordered this book hoping to see a better ending – I’m sure I won’t get it.

I was very surprised to read in an EW interview that Harris created the supernatural story of the Fae for Sookie because she was bored. Quite honestly, I hated that story line b/c it took away from Sookie and the whole reason for her story – dating vampires.

Bottom line: Should YOU read this? I say yes if you are a devoted Sookie Stackhouse fan. If you aren’t really that into the series, then don’t waste your time – check the reviews on Good Reads, they are HILARIOUS and filled with sardonic humor of bitter devoted fans. I have yet to talk to one person that liked the ending. If you read it, share your thoughts!

Goodbye Sookie, I’m going to choose to remember you as you were in your earlier books and not how your creator left you because you deserve better.

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Hemlock Grove: Is It Just Another Werewolf Show?

April 26, 2013 by

Have you heard about the new show that has an all-star cast where everyone has a dark secret to hide…like being a werewolf?

Hemlock GroveIf not, that might be because it’s a Netflix Original show, meaning you can’t watch it if you don’t have a membership to Netflix. Let me break it down for you: Either get your own membership or borrow your friends login, because this is a show you DO NOT WANT TO MISS.

 The Cast:

Famke Janssen

Lily Taylor

Bill Skarsgard

Landon Liboiron

Dougray Scott

Penelope Mitchell

Freya Tingley

The Series:

If there is one thing I love to do with television, it’s marathon shows. Thanks to Netflix being awesome, the entire 13 episode Season 1 could be viewed at once. I love the fact that I didn’t have to wait to watch episode 2 or 3 or 4.

The show is based on a book (which I haven’t read, but will be adding to my iPad probably as soon as I finish this post), which gives it some credibility in my book. Any show (for the most part) that was based – even loosely – on a book, must have had something catching enough to get enough followers to want a show. That makes it worth a shot to watch.

When I started this series, a bottle of white wine joined me, and consequently was finished by the end of the second episode. By the third episode, I was confused because I had many questions that hadn’t been answered. While I was worried it was because of my wine-induced euphoria, when I reached the final episode of the season, I realized it was because those questions hadn’t been answered – I hadn’t missed anything.

If you are like me, you will have MANY WTF moments. You might scratch your head and think, ok – that storyline is seriously twisted – where are they going with this? Well, I’m here to tell you – STICK WITH THIS SHOW! It WILL pay off in the end. I promise. This show offers a little bit of everything. Just know you must be patient because this season comes with one hell of a twist (again, keep in mind I haven’t read the book).

The Acting:

You might think, it’s probably not going to be that great because it’s not a show made for cable or “regular” TV. WRONG! The acting is superb. The following are just a few examples. Many people have tweeted and posted that they hate Olivia’s (Famke) stuffy British accent, but I think it’s intentional, an extension of her character. Lily Taylor (Lynda) is always great and does an equally fantastic job as Peter’s (Landon) mom. Landon Liboiron (Peter) has one of the toughest jobs in the show, having to pull off a variety of emotions, while making them believable. What I love about his performance is that it doesn’t feel forced, but genuine. He successfully made me feel each and every emotion that his character was feeling. Roman (Bill) follows in his family’s brilliant footsteps and delivers a performance of Skarsgard quality with every episode. With the things he has to do, I can only imagine, each day shooting had to have been a blast.

As I mentioned before, this show deals with secrets…one of which, is a werewolf. The transformation seen in this show was done like none I’ve ever seen. Netflix was smart – they had me sucked in just by looking at the poster. I didn’t even have to see a trailer to know I would be watching it. Once again, well played, Netflix. You win. Now WHERE IS SEASON 2?

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The Host: Movie Review

April 14, 2013 by

Stephenie Meyers’ only other book besides the Twilight Saga got mixed reviews (from myself included- read here), but even I was excited when I found out this was going to be a movie, but I didn’t run to the theaters to see it either.

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I knew there were lots of challenges to overcome in the making of this film and overall, I think the movie turned out to be okay. For certain, it was nothing spectacular, with so much important dialogue cut from the script, the relationships that developed throughout the movie felt rushed.

I certain that anybody that hasn’t read the book will have a hard time enjoying this movie. I filled in a lot of holes and explanations with my knowledge from what was written on the pages. Only with that information, could I find myself liking Wanda and understanding her.

Obviously, my husband didn’t read the novel, and ended up falling asleep in the middle of the movie (so not hard to do with the recliners in our theater). I had a very hard time buying into this novel when I started reading it and that transferred to my husband in the start of the movie. Unfortunately, he never recovered and took a well deserved nap. He was willing to see it with me, at least, right?

Bottom line – I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone that didn’t read The Host or isn’t a syfy nut or diehard Meyers fan. If you do see it, go to a matinee. Yes, you can see the movie without reading the book, but you’re going to leave the theater unfulfilled if you do. Only armed with the conversations Wanda had with Ian and Jared and Jamie from the book can you get a true appreciation for the characters.

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Spring Breakers: Does It Deserve The Hype?

April 11, 2013 by

I watch Pretty Little Liars and because I watch this show, when I saw Ashley Benson tweeting bout her movie coming out this month, I knew I wanted to see it. To support her and her acting career. I mean, it has an all star cast ranging from James Franco to Selena Gomez. How bad could it be?

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Well that is the million dollar question. All the reviews I’d seen before seeing this, said this movie was amazing and easily one of the best films of the year.

Sure. If by best, you mean sucks.

Does this movie deserve all the hype? In my opinion: HELL to the NO!

This movie was such a waste of time, I feel like my intelligence was sucked out of me with every second I kept my eyes glued to the screen.

James Franco did an amazing job, acting like a street thug, drug dealer that he was, but the storyline was tremendously lacking.

This movie seemed nothing more than a bunch of girls we’ve seen on our tv screens trying to break out of their goodie goodie molding. The artistic way in which the film was edited, didn’t leave a lot of room for a lot of lines, but lots of cut away shots to different (illegal) things these girls were doing.

I think this had potential to be a great movie, but script is in serious need of an overhaul before that can happen. So many stupid decisions are made (many of which, I don’t think most sane girls would make just to get to FL for spring break, but who knows, maybe these girls are insane) that don’t seem realistic choices, common sense was thrown out the window for the entire movie.

If you are a fan of any of these actors, then check it out to support them. It’s why I watched it. If not, and you just like movies, skip this one. Wait for it to come on HBO – at least then, you won’t waste your money…only your time.

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Why You Should Give earth balance mindful mayo a Try

March 24, 2013 by

When it comes to mayo, I’m VERY particular about what I eat. In fact, I’m so picky, I buy two brands – one that I eat and one that my husband eats (I like Kraft, he likes Miracle Whip). Shortly after I became a vegetarian, I considered becoming vegan. However, I would have to change out my staples such as cheese, mayo, etc. I thought this would be a problem until I found earth balance. prod-mayo-olive-oil

I didn’t have high expectations going into my first tasting of this because of how picky I am. Low and behold, I was pleasantly surprised by the flavor. This vegan mayo is actually REALLY GOOD and really good for you. I found this at my local organic store. If you see it on the shelves, definitely give it a shot. I’m now one step closer to eating healthier, something we should all strive for.

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Admission: Movie Review

March 23, 2013 by

I love both Tina Fey and Paul Rudd, so when Olympus Has Fallen was sold out, this movie was an easy choice. Don’t get me wrong, I wanted to see this to begin with, but was hoping to catch the other movie first due to my mood. ADMISSION-Poster

For starters let me just say that the trailer’s we’ve seen in the theaters completely twists this movie. What you think is the main movie plot ISN’T. In no way is that a bad thing, but needless to say, I was surprised when I found out the real depth of the story. Obviously, I haven’t read the book.

This movie comes complete with a star-studded cast, each of which bringing a level of perfection to their characters that are somehow capable of strumming different emotional nerves throughout the movie.

In this movie you will get a romance, love, comedy, drama, and many life lessons. I enjoyed the way Hollywood pointed out how big Ivy League schools, such as Princeton (where Tina Fey’s character Portia is an admissions officer), only VISIT the private and prep schools to FIND their prospects. It shows how truly skewed the everyday above-average public school students chances are of getting admitted.

I won’t lie – there was a moment when I thought I was going to cry. The circumstances that we see Portia placed in over the course of the movie not only require her to evaluate her straight-laced ways, they make her rethink all of her life decisions from as far back as college. As many students as Portia denies admission becomes almost symbolic for what she denies herself…which is a lot.

If you have two hours to kill one day, I’d say give this movie a shot. If you aren’t sure it’s something you want to see, then go see a matinee – you’ll get your money’s worth. It’s not your typical romcom – if you haven’t read the book like me, you’re in for a real treat.

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Safe Haven: Movie Review

March 15, 2013 by

Logline: A young woman with a mysterious past lands in Southport, North Carolina where her bond with a widower forces her to confront the dark secret that haunts her.

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Safe Haven opened on probably the best day of the year for a Nicholas Sparks novel adaptation – Valentine’s Day. Sadly, I couldn’t go because I was too busy enjoying a Mumford & Sons concert. Ironically, one of the openers was Ben Howard, who is on the Safe Haven soundtrack (another post will follow re: soundtrack). Time moved forward and I finally got a chance to see the movie. For me, it was worth the wait.

I will preface this review by stating I have NOT read the book, although it’s currently on my iPad waiting for me to read it, so I can’t say how close this is or isn’t too the movie. However, I can say I thought the acting in this movie was superb. Nothing felt forced or uncomfortable. The chemistry was evident between Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough. Their emotions became my emotions. The soundtrack and score fit the movie and did a great job at setting the tone. The cinematography captures the small town in the typical manner described in Nicholas Sparks novels. It’s portrayed perfectly on the screen. This movie does a great job of making me crave the Atlantic!

Like 90% of Nicholas Sparks’ stories, Safe Haven takes place in a quiet, small town in North Carolina. It’s here, he teaches Julianne Hough’s character, Katie a major life lesson…how to LOVE. Alex, played by Josh Duhamel, is responsible for such a task. Alex’s daughter, Lexie makes it that much easier for Alex and Katie, by being adorable and catching on to the flirting and chemistry between her dad and the new pretty girl. Even Katie’s neighbor, Jo tries to convince her to open up and give Alex a chance. Unfortunately for Katie, she is married to an abusive, alcoholic cop, perfectly portrayed by Revolution’s David Lyons. He may not know where she is, but definitely knows how to make trouble for her. In the end, he does a very good job to complicate things for Katie.

I’ve read quite a few Nicholas Sparks books and, I have to say, the last few minutes of this film – WOAH! What a cool twist. I loved it so much. Be prepared though guys and dolls, you might need some kleenex at the end. I had a moment…This story does a great job at reminding us that everyone can be happy and have a second chance.

Did you see this movie? Will you see this movie? If you haven’t, YOU SHOULD! Go to a matinee if you aren’t sure you want to spend the money on it. I’m on a romance kick at the moment, which is killing my poor husband. It’s a stretch from my usual horror or sci-fi, but I’m enjoying it while it’s around. With that being said, what’s your favorite romance?

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Oz The Great and Powerful – Movie Review

March 9, 2013 by

From the first time I saw a teaser trailer about this movie, I became excited like a little school girl. I dished out money to see a special showing of The Wizard of Oz on the big screen in NOVA (Northern VA), so there was NO WAY I would miss this.

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Directed by Sam Raimi, everything the man touches turns out beautifully. Of course, wherever there is Sam, there will be Bruce Campbell. He pops up in all of Sam’s movies, just like Stan Lee does in the movies of his comics. I love it! Danny Elfman did the music in this movie, mixing that perfect harmony of fantasy with the fight for good versus evil.

I saw this movie in 3D and if you have the ability to see it in 3D, you must! Just like the original, the movie starts off in Kansas in black and white. Well, while the screen is still in black and white, the movie is not widescreen. Whenever something happens that is enhanced by 3D, that black space surrounding the movie is used up, really giving you the impression something is jumping off the screen. It’s pretty awesome.

Once you get to Oz, the movie goes to widescreen where the sets are breathtaking. Thanks to my daughter’s love of the Disney Channel, I’ve seen Mila Kunis talk enough about the movie to know that a large portion of the set was real.

A part of this movie I loved is that hints leading up to The Wizard of Oz were dropped throughout. We know that Dorothy wears a blue and white gingham dress. She lives with her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry and that her name is Dorothy Gale. That is brought up very subtly in this movie while we see Oz in Kansas. It’s pretty cool.

Once in Oz, in the original the Wicked Witch of the East is killed with Dorothy’s house. All that is left of her is her ruby slippers. I couldn’t help but think Theodora HAD to be her since she wears red. If that were the case, Evanora had to be the Wicked Witch of the West because she wears green. There is only one Glinda in both movies, but I can’t tell if the movies messed up or what because I noticed a MAJOR inconsistency. Glinda in The Wizard of Oz, was the Good Witch of the North and in this movie, she is introduced as the Good Witch of the South. HMMMM…You find out some background on all three witches and why they are the way they are – it’s pretty great.

This movie has quite a twist to it and does a great job explaining how the Wizard of Oz came to be the man behind the curtain we saw when Toto pulled it in the original movie.

While it’s over 2 hours long, it goes really fast, building up Oz and showing his flaws. One of the lines James Franco says in the beginning is “I’ll see you in my dreams.” OMG, I thought I was going to die! I’ve said to my husband since 1998 when we first started dating (yes, do the math, we’ve been an item for almost 15 years). It’s also a line in my novel because it means so much to me. Good to know other people think the same way I do.

So, Oz The Great and Powerful – GO. SEE. IT. WOW.

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