Showing posts with label collection. Show all posts
Showing posts with label collection. Show all posts

Tuesday, February 9, 2021

Book Review - Craigslist Confessional: A Collection of Secrets from Anonymous Strangers by

 


Helena Dea Bala was exhausted and found herself isolated even though she was surrounded by people. One day, she decides to escape outside to take a break and finds herself splitting her lunch with a man who panhandles near her office. The pair chatted like old friends while they were eating. They were honest and open with each other as they didn't fear judgment. After their conversation, Helena felt free and connected in a way she hasn't felt in years. 

Inspired to help others, she posts an ad on Craiglist promising to listen to anyone anonymously for free. The speaker was allowed to talk freely without having any fear. They told secrets that they weren't able to share with anyone including loved ones.  Helena wasn't expecting much responses to come in but, she was surprised when her inbox was flooded with requests from people who were desperate to connect. She decided to defer her student loans, quit her job, and spend her time listening.

The book is a collection of forty people telling a moment in their lives that defined them. Some stories were heart warming and inspiring while, some were sad. I did find a few stories boring or disgusting (one person confessed to drinking his own pee) and I had to skip their story. While reading the book, I felt like I was getting a glimpse into someone's life and sometimes, I wish I knew more. I felt though at times, that the author or person might have embellished their story because it felt "too perfect" or "out there" to be true. However, after reading the book I been trying to be more understanding, empathetic, and patient with people.


Friday, September 5, 2014

One Directon - Up All Night Collection






















I was given the opportunity to try the new One Direction makeup kit before it hit the market. Their makeup line has three collections based off of One Direction's albums, Up All Night, Take Me  Home, and Midnight Memories. Each kit is in a collectable tin and is packed with eyeliner, lipstick, nail polish, mascara, eyeshadow and stencils to top off your look.

The Up All Night kit had a pretty colors, but they were not my taste. I can see how teenage girls and tweens would love the appeal of the trendy bright colors. The products are encased in a nice matte black packaging. I will go into more detail about the products after I have the chance to test  out each product.

For more information about the brand and makeup, please visit -

Thursday, March 21, 2013

Color Club Fiesta Collection - Wild Cactus







Even as I got older I still can't color in between the lines...
As Pantone said this is the year of Emerald, the market place has been saturated with Emerald colored products. I am not one to complain, I love the dazzling color. It looks equally beautiful against my chocolate mocha skin color [is anyone else hungry?].

The Wild Cactus is apart of Color Club's Fiesta Collection. It is a deep emerald green in color. It goes on smoothly and doesn't streak. Although, I did use 2 to 3 coats to get the color intensity above. But since the formula was a bit thick, one coat might be suitable for some people. It didn't dry to a matte finished but a semi-gloss, which makes the "loud" color appropriate for both the day and night. 

Now, since I have a "green thumb" let's see if I can bring my orchids back to life!

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Smashbox In Bloom 2011 Collection


Smashbox just released their new spring line. It is called 'In Bloom'. It is inspired by the fresh blooms of spring. There are three looks: Blossom, Grey Glam and Petal.

Blossom Photo Credit: Smashbox.com
 "A bright pink cheek and lip make for a look as strikingly pretty as blossoming florals."

Grey Glam Photo Credit: Smashbox.com
" The perfect sexy, yet soft smolder for spring? A grayish, lavender-blue eye with an alluring drop shadow. "

Petal Photo Credit: Smashbox.com
"Dreamy spring beauty is in full bloom with this veil of muted violet and whispery pink around the eyes."

These three looks are perfect for every day wear. I love the Petal look for a nice outing with friends, grey glam for a sizzling night out in the city and blossom for the office.

Andrea