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Makeup and Beauty Blog Monday Poll, Vol. 304

December 30th, 2013 by Karen 34 Comments

The Makeup and Beauty Blog Monday Poll for December 30, 2013

You might be wondering, “So what the heck is this Monday Poll thing anyway?”

Well, it isn’t much of a poll. It’s more just a constantly evolving (devolving?), somewhat random list of questions I’ve been putting out to readers every Monday morning for the past six years. I’ve always enjoyed reading your answers in the comments, and I hope you enjoy reading mine.

How do you like to start your mornings?
In a perfect world, my mornings would always be quiet, and I’d never have to rush. No alarm, and no one peppering me with questions before 11-noon (I’m kind of a grumpy goat for the first hour or two after I get up). I’d be able to lie in bed for hours, petting Tabs and contemplating life…

This rarely, if ever, happens, of course.

My alarm usually goes off at 6:30, although I do hit the snooze a couple of times. Then I visit the ladies’ room, splash some water on my face, and drag myself downstairs, not stopping for anythin or anyone until I reach the coffee maker in the kitchen.

El Hub usually grunts something unintelligible to me on the way, but like I said, I’m pretty uncommunicative first thing in the morning.

What company will you be keeping when the ball drops at midnight tomorrow night?
I’ll be with my boys — El Hub and Tabs.

How do you feel about re-gifting?
I feel OK about it, as long as it isn’t obvious that the gift has been re-gifted, and as long as it’s something I’m sure the recipient will like.

On the other hand, if the gift is obviously some rand-o, weird piece of junk, then I think it’s kind of tacky.

Do you have any habits you’d like to break?
How about treating 6 p.m. like it’s noon? I would love to finish my days by 6 on the dot. I try, but I’m not very good about watching the clock… Many days I end up in front of the computer past 8. It’s just not healthy.

How important are clothes to you?
Well, they’re kind of important, because without them, I’d be naked. 🙂

I guess they’re important, but not super important, if that makes any sense. I mean, I love being able to express myself through clothing, and I think I have a quirky style. I also really do believe that the way in which we present ourselves to the world affects how we’re perceived and treated (for better or worse).

I definitely spent a little more than I care to admit on pricier pieces in my 20s and early 30s than I do now, though. Now, I figure that Tabs is just going to ruin whatever I’m wearing anyway (LOL!), so I’m not really a label snob anymore (I think I was at one time). As long as something’s comfortable, fits well and isn’t entirely covered in cat hair, I’ll wear it.

Elaborate nail art: yes or no?
Yes! Absolutely. I think nail art is so much fun. I want to do it more often.

What’s a talent you’d love to have?
Hmm… How about basic accounting? A lot of my friends and family are accountants — seriously, like, most of them — and they’re all great at quickly processing numbers in their head. I’m talking calculator speed, yo!

I wish I could do that. I usually have to write numbers down, so it takes me forever to calculate things, like how much I’m saving in a 20% off sale.

What shoes are you wearing today?
The black Sam Edleman boots I got on sale last week. Merry Christmas to me! 🙂

What are your best and worst qualities?
Wow, that’s a tough one. Well, I like being creative, because I think it helps me solve problems in unusual ways. But my worst quality? Ugh…I hate to admit this, but I hold on to grudges longer than I should. I have a hard time letting go of things, especially after big arguments.

Sigh… I’m working on it.

What would you like on your pizza?
Fresh tomatoes, roasted garlic, olives and basil. Nice and simple. And vegetarian, YUM!

Now it’s your turn. Just copy and paste the following questions into a comment with your answers. I look forward to reading ’em! 🙂

1. How do you like to start your mornings?
2. What company will you be keeping when the ball drops at midnight tomorrow night?
3. How do you feel about re-gifting?
4. Do you have any habits you’d like to break?
5. How important are clothes to you?
6. Elaborate nail art: yes or no?
7. What’s one talent you’d love to have?
8. What shoes are you wearing today?
9. What are your best and worst qualities?
10. What would you like on your pizza?

This is our last Monday Poll of 2013!

I can’t even believe it… In a matter of hours, we’ll be writing 2014 for the date. Weird!

What are your plans for tomorrow night? Do they do fireworks where you live?

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

Sundays With Tabs the Cat, Makeup and Beauty Blog Mascot, Vol. 276

December 29th, 2013 by Karen 11 Comments

Dear Diary,

Yeah, this was a good year.

When I think about where I started — I was a stray flashing my tum for gravy on the mean streets of Mill Valley — I can’t believe how far I’ve come.

I feel so lucky. A lot of cats don’t have it this good. I have a roof over my head, a mediocre pet assistant, a cupboard stocked with gravy, and millions of adoring fans.

What more could a tabby ask for?

Professionally, I even accomplished most of my goals. I added more stamps to my passport, expanded my global empire and worked on hundreds of fantastic kitty modeling campaigns.

Here are some of the more memorable ones that come to mind…

Who is Tabs the Cat? About six years ago I befriended a stray, flea-bitten tabby cat with a bad case of worms. I could see he’d fallen on hard times, but his profound knowledge of high fashion and department store cosmetics led me to believe that he was more than meets the eye. We became fast friends, and now he’s actually my boss (and a successful kitty model). 🙂

New York

I vividly remember this campaign for NARS. It was RyGos and I working together in New York City. We partied hard. We also did a lot of walking that trip, first all over downtown, and then to chase ducks in Central Park.

I had a blast and really enjoyed working with RyGos. His tum is almost as extraordinary as mine.

Paris

I spent a lot of time in Paris this year. I’m still bummed about not winning the Oscar for my work on Les Chat Misérables, but c’est la vie.

I also had a Chanel job in the springtime with Snowflake, which was très magnifique! Hunting mice along the Seine after sunset, mewling for cheese — it was so romantic.

If I weren’t at the pinnacle of my kitty modeling career right now, I could see myself settling down with Snowflake. She’s just so…exciting, and boy can she model!

But I don’t have any room in my life for a relationship right now. It wouldn’t be fair to Snowflake…

New Zealand

Uh…New Zealand with Peter Jackson?

YES, PLEASE!

That was another amazing trip. I gotta hand it to my assistant for arranging time with Peter Jackson between the two Hobbit movies. You know you’re in good hands when he’s behind the camera.

What a gorgeous country, too. I hear it’s how California probably looked a few hundred years ago — thick forests, tall, snow-capped mountains…and lots of sheep!

Morocco

Morocco…

Not my favorite trip this year, but that’s what I get for working with a newbie photographer. You’d think I’d know better by now.

The guy had absolutely no idea what he was doing, but at least I got to work with Steve again. Best Bengal tiger in the kitty modeling business, paws down.

South Carolina

Hilton Head, South Carolina… You know, I surprised myself last summer on that job for CoverCat. I’d never waterskied before, but I think I did alright.

I’ve always had pretty good balance, even though my assistant laughs at me every time I slip on the kitchen tiles… I really should talk to her about that. It’s rude.

Miami

Miami for BECCA was fun, of course, but that’s mostly because I got some much-needed beach time.

Venice Beach, California

Speaking of beaches, Venice Beach was cooler than I thought. I expected a lot more dogs…

I met so many musically talented cats down there. It reminded me of my days battling strays on street corners in Mill Valley for treats. I always had a good-sounding meow…
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12 Days of Giveaways, Day 12: 7 Ways to Win a $1,560 Louis Vuitton Salina PM Bag (Ends Friday)

December 29th, 2013 by Karen 890 Comments

I have been lusting after and dreaming about this bag for more than a year, I kid you not.

First time I ever saw it in person, a lightning bolt of love struck me right in the heart.

BOOM!

I remember it like it was yesterday…

I was in San Francisco waiting to meet a friend for brunch in front of a restaurant in the Marina on a sunny day. As she walked up, my eyes locked like lasers on her purse — the Louis Vuitton Salina PM.

Like the accessories weirdo I am, I kept sneaking peeks at it through the meal. Every time my friend looked away, I’d study her purse. It was almost impossible not to!

I totally ignored my eggs and banana pancakes (two of my favorite things in the world). All I could think was, “Oh, mah gawd, Becky! I need that purse!!”

Uh…then I found out that it’s $1,560, which is A LOT of cat treats. Consequently, the bag continues to elude me. Plus, Tabs has an exclusivity contract with LV that gives him exclusive rights to carry/wear the brand here in the offices of Tabs the Cat Industries, LLC.

Oh, well. Don’t ask me how he secured that gig. He never tells me anything. 🙂

But then Neutrogena offered to host this giveaway, and of course I jumped at the chance. A bag like this? YES! Maybe I won’t be able to tote the Salina PM around my town, but perhaps you will around yours.

This is by far the largest single prize in Makeup and Beauty Blog history — a $1,560 value — and I’m pretty jazzed. The winner of this bag will be a very, very lucky gal (or guy!).

“Elegant and compact, the Salina PM is a bag that’s charmingly feminine. Its finely worked long flat handles and supple Damier Azur canvas make it a delight to carry on the shoulder.”

— louisvuitton.com

Salina PM Features

(Width x Height x Depth) 16.9 x 18.5 x 6.7 inches
Natural cowhide leather trim
Shiny golden brass metallic pieces
Squeeze-to-open clasp inspired by classic Louis Vuitton trunk locks
Wide opening for easy access
Microfibre lining
1 interior zipped and 3 flat pockets

A Louis-licious grand prize valued at $1,560!

One (1) Louis Vuitton Salina PM bag in the Damier Azur print valued at $1,560

Enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Open to U.S. readers.
You must be 18 or older to enter (or otherwise an adult based on your local laws).
Your comment can be about anything at all, but here are some ideas if you’re stuck:
- Are you a crazy cat lady?
- Describe your current favorite purse.
- Do you have any New Year’s Eve traditions?
- Umbrella or raincoat?
- Do you prefer to exercise by yourself or with other people?
- How far is your commute to work/school?
You can enter in up to seven ways to boost your chances of winning.
The giveaway ends on Friday, January 3, 2014 at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time).
Full terms and conditions are available in the widget.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

P.S. Happy new year!!!

Say “Bonjour!” to Chanel Melodieuse Rouge Allure Lipstick, From the New Chanel Notes de Printemps Spring Collection

December 28th, 2013 by Karen 22 Comments

Um…is it spring yet? ‘Cause I’m ready for it. Note to Mother Nature: Karen is ready for spring to start.

I’m just sayin’. 🙂

First, there’s the cold. I’m tired of it. Second, there’s bright reddish coral Chanel Melodieuse lipstick. I can’t wait to wear it with a fun spring dress. I think it would look extra pretty with, like, a bib necklace — one with sky blue beads or faux gems and some gold accents. I’m thinkin’ the coral would play off the blue.

This cutie by Chanel comes to counters next month, but you can already find it at Nordstrom Chanel counters and online now at nordstrom.com — ya know, if you can’t wait to get your coral on. It’s $34.

12 Days of Giveaways, Day 11: 7 Ways to Win a Prize Package of All 14 Neutrogena MoistureShine Glosses (Ends Monday)

December 28th, 2013 by Karen 203 Comments

Roses are red, violets are blue, if your lips need a reason to shine, Neutrogena has 14 for you. 🙂

Neutrogena’s heroically hydrating MoistureShine Glosses come in a wide range of wearable colors, finishes and levels of coverage, from natural-looking neutrals, to potent pinks, to bright berries and more.

From the upper left to the lower right: Super Sparkle, Fruity Pink, Healthy Blush, Nutri Berry, Natural Boost, Coper Power, Pure Cider, Vita Plum, Vital Violet, Refreshing Rose, Potent Plum, Berry Fit, Wine Wellness and Healthy Peach

“Neutrogena MoistureShine Gloss has silky, sheer color that glides onto lips, leaving them feeling pampered, soft and ultra-smooth. The super conditioning formula with a triple berry antioxidant complex–including Acai, Goji and Aronia berries–actually improves the healthy look, softness and smoothness of your lips over time. From soft neutrals to blushing pinks, shimmering mauves to rich plums, a single swipe of the wand applies a feather-light coat of glossy color that’s not sticky or tacky.”

— neutrogena.com

Wear ’em alone for a quick hit of shine and color, or layer them on top of your favorite lipsticks or lip stains.

Swatches from the left: Super Sparkle, Fruity Pink, Healthy Blush, Nutri Berry, Natural Boost, Coper Power, Pure Cider, Vita Plum, Vital Violet, Refreshing Rose, Potent Plum, Berry Fit, Wine Wellness and Healthy Peach

Make room in your makeup bag right meow, ’cause today’s giveaway is coming at’cha!

A 14-piece prize package featuring all of Neutrogena’s MoistureShine Glosses valued at $111.86 that includes:

14 MoistureShine Glosses in Super Sparkle, Fruity Pink, Healthy Blush, Nutri Berry, Natural Boost, Copper Power, Pure Cider, Vita Plum, Vital Violet, Refreshing Rose, Potent Plum, Berry Fit, Wine Wellness and Healthy Peach valued at $111.86

Enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Open to U.S. readers.
You must be 18 or older to enter (or otherwise an adult based on your local laws).
Your comment can be about anything at all, but here are some ideas if you’re stuck:
- Have you ever baked cupcakes from scratch?
- Where’s the best place in your home to get work done?
- What’s a book you have on your to-read list?
- If you had unlimited funds and could have five homes around the world, where would they be?
- How good are you at reading people?
- Tell me about your computer desktop picture/wallpaper.
You can enter in up to seven ways to boost your chances of winning.
The giveaway ends on Monday, December 30, 2013 at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time).
Full terms and conditions are available in the widget.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

P.S.

If you have a moment today, here are a couple more giveaways you can still enter…

Don’t forget to enter these ongoing giveaways, too

How To Apply Color in Your Crease With the MAC Oval 3 Masterclass Makeup Brush

December 27th, 2013 by Karen 18 Comments

My favorite brush from the new MAC Masterclass makeup brush family is the MAC Oval 3. It’s just so good at getting color in the crease, quickly and effortlessly. If you ever struggle to put eyeshadow in the crease, or if you’ve just been curious about this futuristic-looking makeup/toothbrush (LOL!), here’s how I like to use it.

Products mentioned in this video

Oh, and for some really excellent tips on all three new MAC Masterclass Brushes, here’s what MAC Senior Artist Victor Cembellin has to say about them…

I hope you’re having a great night so far. TGIF! 🙂

I’m watching a wonderful movie on Netflix right now with my in-laws called The Sapphires. Highly, highly recommended, especially if you like ’60s music.

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen

Introducing Chanel La Diva Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick, From the New Chanel Notes de Printemps Spring Collection

December 27th, 2013 by Karen 10 Comments

I like to think that Chanel named this particular Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick after one of my all-time favorite divas — the multitalented Tabs.

He and Karl (Mr. Lagerfeld) are pretty tight, after all, so I wouldn’t be surprised if Tabs featured into Karl’s thought process. Perhaps he was Karl’s muse.

It makes sense, really, if you think about it. After all, like Tabs, this cool pink lipstick looks good with black cat liner. 🙂

La Diva, with its velvety finish, is part of the new Notes de Printemps spring collection. Officially, it arrives on Chanel counters in January, but you can find it now at Nordstrom stores and online at nordstrom.com.

Cabin in the Woods (Not the Joss Whedon Version)

December 27th, 2013 by Karen 20 Comments

Hello from the snow!

Well…from the small amount of snow left on the ground after a brief snowfall here a few weeks ago.

El Hub and I are still up in Redding near the Oregon border visiting family for the holidays, but we took a short drive yesterday to visit some relatives at their cabin not far from Mount Lassen.

Fun fact: Lassen Peak, one of only two volcanoes in the contiguous United States to erupt during the 20th century (the other being Mount St. Helens), is the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range. Before its last eruption on May 22, 1915, it was more than 1,000 feet taller than its current height of 10,457 feet.

Final Jeopardy, here we come!

The family has a cozy mountain cabin in the woods, and it’s gloriously quiet and peaceful.

There are lots of animals in the area (even some bears!), although I didn’t see any critters on this trip. I did, however, hear a woodchuck or chipmunk chucking in the distance…

Actually, I’m not sure what it was. It could’ve been a chihuahua on the loose. Honestly, what do I know? I’m a city girl, LOL!

Right now there’s just a light dusting of snow on the ground, which they tell me is unusual for this time of year (it’s been a dry year). It was enough for me, though. I had a blast leaving my footprints in it and exploring the nearby woods.

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