Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Wisdom Teeth 101

How To Handle Your Wisdom-Teeth Removal Week

My Experience:
On August 15th, 2011 at 8am, my twin brother David and I got all four of our wisdom teeth removed.  I was so scared I was crying in the lobby while we waited for the assistant to call us back.  The actual interior of the lobby was beautiful, fancy, calming (that’s always helpful) and classic.  I was very impressed of the structure, colors and design.  Dr. Harris was phenomenal and the assistants were well trained.  They explained a couple things about the procedure and comforted me in the best way they could (even though I was still crying and tears were streaming down my face as I looked quietly at my mom-no joke.)  I’m always scared of unknown pain, surgery, etc… but this experience was interesting. 

I left my family as I followed a nurse to a different room where the teeth removal would take place.  I asked for cold-spray on my arm where they would give me an IV to fall asleep aka conk out.  I was grateful that I was asleep during the process and I HIGHLY recommend you have that happen to you as well. 

When I woke up, I actually remember sitting in the wheelchair, gauze was in my mouth (it was not overflowing), and the assistant was chatting with me while we waited for David to finish.  She asked me how I was, what I felt like, if I was hungry, if the gauze was alright, etc… I remember replying “I’m okay, I feel sleepy, yes I’m hungry, the gauze is fine…” and even though I was a little bit loopy, I held it together and was rather quiet, still, and as focused as I could be. 

I breathed in through my nose and exhaled from my mouth.  You may think this is funny but I brought my BIG black sunglasses to wear afterwards because I knew I’d still be a little tearful.  Dr. Harris explained that girls tend to be more tearful afterwards whereas boys are more talkative and upbeat.  When David was wheeled over to me, he was talking and looking around just like Dr. Harris had said. 

The assistant, and Dr. Harris slowly walked us to the car.  I chose the back seat and David chose shotgun.  Of course David brought his camera to videotape himself and a little bit of me afterwards to later show friends and family.  I rarely talked- gave a few thumbs up, some whimpering replies, some head-nods, and had placed my hand lightly over my swollen cheeks and chin.  When we got home, I picked the recliner chair that already had my favorite pillows and blanket on it. 

This is the third day of the recovery and I’m told it’s the hardest day with the most swelling.  I agree.  Plus, I feel loopy, and a tad bit dizzy.  But I have found some great tips in staying occupied, entertained, and relaxed during the long week of wisdom teeth recovery.

Prep:
Shower the night before your appointment.  During the week, keep your hair sleeked back in a basic ponytail.  I would also tidy your room a little bit so that you’re more relaxed and at peace with yourself.  A clean space always makes me happy.   Buy a small toothbrush so that you only have to minimally open your mouth to clean it.  I’d also purchase some mini mouth wash.  Stock up on soft foods (which are listed under the Food section.)  Last but not least, have a positive view on things.  You’ll only be having this done ONCE and then it’s over. 
                                                                                    Comfort:
It’s good to keep gauze in your mouth until the amount of blood decreases.  Try not to talk while the gauze is in the sides/back of your mouth.  Keep your fully charged cell phone and your recovery kit from the doctor’s near you.  Keep cold sacks and later on hot sacks on your jaw/chin to lower the swelling and pain.  It’s a no-brainer to wear your pj’s, loose tees, and comfy sweatpants.  Soft pillows and wool blankets will obviously keep you relaxed, comfortable, and sleepy.  It’s always helpful (and in my case quicker) if you sleep during most of the recovery.

Food:
Your doctor, (and common sense) will tell you to only have the softest food possible.  Jello snacks, mashed potatoes with butter, pudding snacks, and go-gurts yogurt are great foods!  Just be sure to not eat a lot of them.  You don’t want to get yourself sick, bloated, or even gain weight.  Also, be sure to avoid soup etc… that has small ingredients/bits in it.  Be sure to use the flattest spoon you have so that you don’t have to open your mouth as much.  You will need to take ibuprofen and the pills your doctor gives you.  Keep track on a piece of paper of when you can take your next pills.  Be aware of having a little snack before taking your pills so that you don’t feel sick to your stomach (which can occasionally happen.)

Entertainment:
During the first half of the week, you feel nauseated, loopy (from the constant medications), and even a little bit grumpy.  It’s best if you just keep your mouth shut and your body still.  So, I suggest having a Disney-a-thon or even your entire DVD-Collection-a-thon.  Cuddle with your pet, text your friends, listen to music, make lists of things you need to do later once you feel better, put up some blog posts (like I am!), do some facebook, read a girly magazine, like Seventeen!  Once you can handle being awake longer, try reading a few good books while still cozying up in your snuggie and favorite pillows.  I’ve recently read Hex Hall, Crazy, Busy, Beautiful, Frumpy To Foxy, For Teens Only, P.S. I Love You, and Beauty Confidential.  I enjoyed all these books so enjoy reading whatever you’d like!   Try to occupy yourself during this boring week of waiting and healing.  The week will seem to go faster if you’re enjoying yourself.  

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Organizing My Closet

Knowing where your clothes are in your closet can really speed up the time trying to put your outfit of the day together.  When my closet was chaotic, I would take five minutes leafing through my entire wardrobe just to find that one tanktop, or that one jacket.  But now that I’ve rearranged my closet, my life has gotten easier, faster, and better.  Here’s what I did:
            I came up with 6 different categories to separate and organize my clothes.
            Spring/Summer
-Tops that can be worn in public (dates, errands, work, school, parties)
            Jackets
                        -All my heavy and light jackets, cardigans, vests, and hoodies
            Dresses/Skirts
                        -All my dresses and skirts for any occasion
            Lazy
-Any tops that are less flattering that I can wear on a lazy day at home.   Should anyone come to the door, I’m still okay. 
            Housework
-The ugly tops that have only one purpose: to get uglier and worn from housework/chores.  (NOT for the public)
            Winter/Fall
                        -Tops that can be worn in public (dates, errands, work, school, parties)

Hairstyles: Volume



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I’ve seen some girls with surprisingly funny hairdos when trying the “volume” look.  But here is a list of ways to do this look without looking funny:
  • Tease hair on top and secure into a high pouf.  Leave the rest of your hair messy-wavy.
  • Set hair in hot rollers and brush out for soft, glamorous volume.
  • Dry your hair and away from your head, directing the air at the roots to create pretty lift all over.
  • Create a messy bun, and then place two headbands four inches apart.  Lift the hair up between them to make a cool bump.
  • Separate two-inch sections of hair starting at the top, and tease each section outward to create and build volume all over.
  • Tease hair everywhere to give it texture, then pull it halfway through an elastic to create a low side loop.
  • For bouncy curls, run gel through damp hair, then flip your head over and dry with a diffuser. 
  • Make a deep side part, and then tease hair at your crown to get dramatic height.
  • Tease your pony to give it the body, then cinch into graphic bubbles with two small rubber bands.

July 2011 Favorites




·        Forever and always my cat Gypsy.  She and I have so much fun cuddling on a daily basis.  She’s so cute!
·        Tangled soundtrack CD from F.Y.E.
·        Smashbox Face Photo Finish Primer from Sephora
·        Jeweled Sandals from Charlotte Russe
·        Tangled cardboard shelves from local grocery store.
(The DVD had barely come out and I saw the display holding the DVDs.  I asked the manager if I could have the display once they took it down.  She agreed, wrote my name on the back, and I got it that same week!)
·        Vera Wang Perfume Roller from Sephora
·        Goal Journal Notebook (It’s so helpful!)
·        Maybelline Single Eyeshadow in Earthly Taupe
·        NYX Mega Shine Lip Gloss in 113 French Kiss
·        Plush Pillows (They’re so cool and comfy!)

Get To Know Me 33 Questionnaire


I found this questionnaire on another website so I decided to answer it also. 

1.         Is it cute when guys kiss you on the forehead?
`                       Yes!  It’s so sweet!
2.         A big poofy dress or a short party dress?
                        Depends on how short the party dress is.
3.         Are diamonds a girl’s best friend?
                        Not to me.  I like other things that make me happy.
4.         Is your hair up or down today?
                        Up.  I almost always have a ponytail when I’m lounging around my house.
5.         Do you straighten your hair?
                        Oh yah!  It’s fun, and the quickest.
6.         Favorite mascara?
                        Most of Maybelline’s and L’Oreal’s.
7.         Do you get your nails done?
                        Nope.  Never have gotten them done.  I do it myself. 
8.         Small or large purses?
                        Large purses!!!
9.         Jeans or sweats?
                        Depends on the day and mood.  Today- sweats.
10.       Do you wear clothes/shoes/jewelry that’s uncomfortable?
                        On occasion.  Very rarely.
11.       Do you text message a lot?
                        Yep.
12.       What’s your favorite color?
                        Electric Blue.  Put Peach is suddenly becoming a favorite.
13.       Heels or flats?
                        Flats today.
14.       Would you ever leave the house without makeup on?
                        Not really.  Maybe to drop my brother off at work. 
15.       Walmart or Target?
                        Both.
16.       Do you think lip gloss is the best?!
                        Oh yah!
17.       Do you own any big sunglasses?
                        I have like 11 pairs!  Haha
18.       How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?
                        Usually between 30 minutes to 2 hours. 
19.       Gold or silver?
                        Silver.
20.       Do you like to wear dresses?
                        Not really.  If I have the option of dressing casual, I’ll dress casual.
21.       In the last 48 hours have you hung out with a guy?
                        Yes.
22.       Do you like to hold hands?
                        I’m not sure yet.  Haha I haven’t really done that.
23.       What do you notice when you first meet a guy?
                        His face and clothes.  First impressions matter.
24.       Do you like making eye contact?
                        Sometimes.
25.       Would you kill for chocolate?
                        Nope.  Fruity candy is more fun to eat in my mind. 
26.       On a scale from 1-10 how fun is shopping?
                        10.  But if I’m not in the mood, then 7.  lol
27.       Do you yell a lot?
                        Not in public haha
28.       Do you wear sweatpants/pajamas to school/work?
                        Nope.  Always jeans.
29.       Have you ever dressed unlike yourself to impress a guy?
                        Nope.  I am who I am.  J 
30.       What makeup could you not live without?
                        Concealor.
31.       Do you fall in love easily?
                        No.
32.       Do you have cramps?
                        Yah.
33.       Do you think you have the bestest friend ever?
I have a bunch of friends, but no best friend.  I like being a “member” of a lot of different “cliques.”  

Products I Want To Try


If you girls have already tried these products, I would love your opinion/recommendations posted in the comments below!  Thanks!

-Laura Mercier Silk Foundation
-Maybelline’s One By One Mascara
-Conair Curling Wand
-Chi’s Silk Infusion
-Sally Hansen Salon Effects Strips
-Ralph Lauren Romance Perfume
-NYX Cosmetics Jumbo Eye Pencils
-OPI Shatter Nail Polish
-Pixi Lip & Line in Nectar Nude
-TIGI Catwalk Hairspray
-Olay Shine Control Lathering Cleanser
-Olay Pore Minimizing Cleanser & Scrub
-Daisy Marc Jacobs Perfume
-Clinique Self Sun Body Tinted Lotion
-Rimmel Mascara Day 2 Night
-Maybelline’s EyeStudio Color Pearls Marbleized Eyeshadow
-Redken Nature’s Rescue Radiant Sea Spray
-Naked Eyeshadow Palette
-Bh Cosmetics Warm Eyeshadow Palette
-Macadamia Natural Oil Nourishing Leave-In Cream
-Urban Decay DeSlick Oil-Control Makeup Setting Spray
-L’Oreal HIP Studio Secrets Professional Chrome Eyeliner in Silver Lightning
-OPI Nail Polish in Do You Lilac It?
-Shu Uemura UV Base Primer Mousse
-Got 2b Power’ful Volumizing Styling Powder
-Suave Dry Shampoo Spray
-Kinky Curly Spiral Spritz
-Samy Dry Twisted Pomade Spray-John Frieda Frizz-Ease 3 Day Straight Spray
-NYX Round Lipsticks in Ceto and Circe
-Revlon Lipstick in Softsilver Rose
-Fekkai Ironless Straightening Balm Defrizzer
-Lancome Flash Bronzer Leg Gel

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Graduation Outfit Haul

I’ve finally graduated from highschool and I needed a legit graduation ensemble.  My mom and I went all over the mall to find the necessary items for possible outfits:


Dillard’s –Calvin Klein –electric blue cardigan
Nordstrom –Adrianna Papell –knee length white pleated dress
Payless –American Eagle –white knot wedges
Sephora –Urban Decay –eye shadow Primer Potion in Sin
JC Penny’s –Nine & Co. –white flower heel sandal
Rue 21 –grey sheer leggings, white sheer leggings, white knit flats, black flower flats
Dillard’s –Jody –knee length white and gold dress
Down East Basics –white half sleeve, classic tee, (2) camisoles 
 In the end, my outfit consisted of the blue cardigan, knee length white pleated dress, and white knot wedges.  

Dress To Fit The Occasion

(Disclaimer: This is entirely my opinion- not a set-in-stone rule.)

Year after year, I see so many young ladies wear the wrong outfit to an event.  For example: girls have worn Sunday best outfits to hardcore football games.  The clothing does NOT match the event.  One looks weird and out of place when sporting the wrong look.  I shall give four examples of suggestions:

1)      Church- sometimes girls wear leggings with their skirts.  I do the same, but when the skirt is too short, it appears like you’re only wearing leggings.  You don’t just 
          wear leggings and a top to church.  Have the respect and courtesy to wear a longer skirt to prove to people that you are actually wearing one.  The leggings should 
          be worn either at home, or in the dance studio.

2)      Fancy Dinner Date- when I’ve been to fancy restaurants, I’ve seen very pretty girls wear jeans!!  Just like attending a fancy instrumental music concert, one should 

         never wear jeans!  Instead, wear a skirt, dark slacks, or even an evening dress, but never jeans.  Jeans aren’t fancy.  Get it?

3)      Football Games- girls should wear pants and a top they don’t care a lot about.  Dirt, drinks, spit, and food can always get on your clothes during games like football.

         Don’t wear pearls, or high heels, or skirts, or expensive tops and cardigans.  Opt for the chic and casual.  

4)      Summer Trips- I don’t know why but some girls seem to want to wear everything they own only once during the summer and they’ll even wear winter sweaters and 

          fur boots!  It’s the middle of July!  If where you live is sunny, then ONLY wear the clothes that are made and meant for summer.  Don’t mix your season wardrobes
          together. 


(Disclaimer: I am not any of these girls in these pictures.  Just saying though, these outfits are sooo cute!) 
NOT a football game outfit.     NOT a summer outfit.      NOT a fancy date outfit.
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My Shower Routine

First I brush my hair back and turn the water on to warm/hot.  I get my hair and face all wet.  I then get any extra makeup/mascara off my face using a regular washcloth.  I get some conditioner (I’m currently using Herbal Essenses Hello Hydration) and run it through my hair.  


Then I get a dime size amount of St. Ive’s Apricot Scrub in Invigorating and gently massage it on my face.  I rinse it off and then I get some shampoo (I’m currently using Suave Refreshing Waterfall Mist, although I haven’t found the best shampoo that’s right for me) and I scrub that into my scalp.  


I then get some of the lather on my hands, put it on my underarms and shave my pits.  Then I rinse all of my hair.  Then I get a dime size amount of Neutrogena Facial Cleanser and gently massage it onto my face.  


I rinse my face and hair a second time and usually towel dry myself off and finish.  Sometimes I’ll shave my legs with Skintimate Raspberry Rain and rub some Nivea A Kiss of Happiness Body Moisturizer over my arms and elbows.


Once I’ve dried myself off, I put on deodorant, (Secret), use three q-tips to clean my ears. I grab a brush and get my hair gathered in the back.  I take a giant hair claw and put my hair up.  I will sometimes put Jergen’s Gradual Tanning Lotion on my legs.  And I’m done!  Total time is about 40 minutes. 
 
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Hairstyles: Buns & Twists

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My favorite hairstyle is probably the elegant bun/twist.  It shows your romantic side, your long slender neck, and it’s a feminine style to get your hair up and out of the way.  Here are some ways to wrap it up to a gorgeous ‘do:
  • Divide a low pony into four sections.  Pin each section back into the base of the pony for a cool knotted look.
  • Twist a two-inch piece of hair and tuck it into a messy bun to give it a fun update.
  • Separate your hair into three sections and create small elegant mini-buns down the back.
  • Slick hair back into a high bun, then add movement by pulling out a few pieces and pinning them to your scalp to create loops.
  • Apply gel and create two ponies on top of each other.  Twist and wrap them around each other to make an elongated bun.
  • Form a sleek knot, but add an edgy twist by letting the ends hang out.  Run pomade over the ends and your bangs for texture.
  • Spritz damp hair with a wave spray and let it air-dry, then gather the piecey waves into a cascading side bun.
  • Pull hair back into a pony, then twirl the hair under.  Create a coil with the ends and pin it close to one ear.
  • Braid a teeny-tiny braid into a high bun and leave the ends out for a graphic look.
  • Slick back the sides and keep the bun messy for a cool contrast of textures.

June 2011 Favorites

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-Sex Symbol Aero Tanning Spray (instant temporary tan)

My friend let me borrow a can and it has done wonders for me.  I’m extremely white and this instant tanner is truly                                                                                                                              a tanner- not an “orange-r.”  
-Jamba Juice in Banana Berry OF COURSE
I love Jamba Juice SOOOO much.  I don’t drink coffee, but if I could, I would have jamba juice every morning!  
-Jessica Simpson Perfume in Fancy
I got a mini one from Burlington Coat Factory for around $8 and it’s great!  I put it in my bag and it doesn’t take much room, and I smell fabulous!
-Female Country Artists (Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill)
 I've decided that my singing style is more country than anything else.  That’s why I’ve been listening to more easy-country artists.  
-Seventeen Magazine
I've always been a fan of this magazine and May’s issue (and June/July’s issue) are wonderful.  I love looking at them every time!
-Gypsy (my cat)
My baby lumpkins is such a darling.  I have her with me in my room for several hours a day and that’s probably why my mom got a little litter box to put up there.
-Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion in Sin
I got this a few days ago and it’s truly incredible!  I’ve never gotten makeup over $20 but this product is great!  The only thing I don’t like about it is that product is 
always slowly coming out of the bottle even when I’m not pushing it to come out.  Maybe there’s just so much product in the bottle so that you get your money’s worth.  Hopefully it’ll stop soon haha I don’t want to waste any of the product because it’s SOOO spectacular.  The day of graduation, I stayed up well over 20 hours and my eyeshadow didn't crease or smudge AT ALL.  This product is a must-buy.  Save up.  It’s that good.   
-Maybelline Mascara “Full ‘N’ Soft”
Currently, the natural look is IN this year and my lashes look exactly what this mascara says.  They are indeed full and soft.  I absolutely love this look!
-Karaoke-version.com
I like to record covers for fun and experience so this website has been a great help in getting me instant music and karaoke tracks.  There are sooo many options
to choose from and you can change the key up or down.  It’s very handy.  
-Spring flowers
Who doesn’t love springtime flowers?  The colors are beautiful and the scents are lovely!      
-Pastel color Nail Polish
Pastel colors look great on probably every skin tone and they're so sweet and simple.
-Dodgeball
Before school ended for me, I played dodgeball a lot of the time in my fitness class and my team would always win.  I’m SOOO competitive when it comes to 
games like that.  I completely forget that I’m burning calories and working out while I play.  I enjoy working out only when it has something to do game-wise.  
-Big sunglasses
My brothers may say I look like a bug, but I will ALWAYS love and wear big sunglasses.  They’re so chic and sophisticated!  They remind me of summer.  

Spring/Summer 2011 Nail Polishes

Spring: pastels, nudes, pinks, champagnes, soft grays, light browns, lilacs.

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Summer: hot pinks, lime greens, bright reds, yellows, electric blues, oranges and purples
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Expanding Your Wardrobe Options With What You Already Own

First off, it would be useful to already have the basics (jeans, black skirt, belt, simple tops, skirts, etc.)

I don’t think most girls can or should buy an article of clothing per day or whatever, but I think all girls should have an outfit plan to make it seem like they have more than they actually do.  Here’s how I do it:
            -Already know the clothes and the cutest outfits you own and map out what days you’ll wear each piece.
            -Swap black pants for white!  Instant change!
            -Accessories can make all the difference.  Switch around shoes (tennis shoes vs. heels), switch around bags (yellow sling vs. purple background), wear statement

             necklaces and bracelets and have different hair accessories.
            -Scarfs are great!  They can cover up shirt designs, and give a new splash of color!  (Hopefully you already own a few.)
You know how phones only have 1 to 9 on them, but there are thousands of phone number combinations?  Do this with your clothes [correctly] and I’m sure you’ll become more satisfied with what you’ve got in your closet.  
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Hairstyles: Waves & Curls


Although I am not a fan of curling irons, I’m sure some of you ladies are.  I adore the curled hair look and I think it’s the most flattering hairdo.  Here are some things you can do; for work, school, or dates:
  • Use a small curling iron to get tight goddess-like curls all over.  Hairspray.
  • Gather loose wavy hair into a low side pony to show off texture and a pretty cascade.
  • Wrap random sections of hair around a curling iron for a loose wave and make a low messy bun.  Pull out any loose strands.  Hairspray.
  • Pull hair into a ponytail, then pin random curls to the scalp, letting the rest fall around your face in a pretty boho way.
  • Use sponge rollers to create soft curls.
  • Make loose curls with a large curling iron.  Flip head over and run fingers through them to break them up a bit.
  • Apply a curl-enhancing spray to damp hair, then dry with a diffuser.  Sweep bangs to the side and secure with a bobby pin or clip.
  • Gather hair into a high ponytail. Take small random sections and coil it tightly.  Pin to head with a bobby pin and repeat.  Hairspray.