on a makeup budget

Everyone loves to splurge on makeup, including me but at times, drug stores brands do the trick. Check out the recent post on www.whowhatwear.com - Beauty Board: Budget Buys. I have used the two mascaras mentioned, Maybelline Lash Discovery (my favorite mascara) and Colossal Volum' Express (recommended by BlushPretty). I would definite try all these products since the article mentions that they are similar to the more expensive brands.

bromance and the city

Last night, I watched the premiere of The City. Being a true Laguna Beach and The Hills fan, I had to check out this new reality series. And after watching the first two episodes, it seems to be quite interesting. A few of my thoughts:

• Nice to see Whitney being the star as oppose to her always asking the questions.
• Olivia is friggin gorgeous, she's like my new Victory Ford.
• Erin is the old Whitney, Alex H, Lo - the girl who always asks the questions.
• Jay = dirt - he is shady, scummy, dirty - I don't like him, and I don't like him for Whitney. I think he is trouble.
• Alex - he's better for Whitney, a bit dense and boring but better looking and more genuine than Jay.

All in all, it seems that there will be lots of drama, hot outfits, cool parties, up and coming restaurants and since I have never been to NYC, it will probably make me want to go. I'm pretty much hooked...


Bromance premiered before The City. Brody Jenner is on my hot list so I had to watch it. It's the male version of Paris Hilton's quest for a new BFF. The thing with this show is there is no eye candy (well, except for Brody) but it's funny to see what these guys will do to have a bromance. Here are a few of my thoughts:

• Chris, the filipino one, reminds me of my friend, Elmer...LOL!
• Michael, the gay guy who left the show because he didn't get to meet Lauren Conrad (sucker - if you stayed you would have had the chance to) was so creepy with overplucked eyebrows.
• Femi (I think that's his name), the black dude, is so annoying and over confident, I hope he is the next to go.

There were many funny moments that actually made me laugh out loud (I loved the guy who made the Spencer is a Douche Bag shirt). It's a dumb show but I will continue to watch because of Brody and I just need to find out which loser guy will win. I have a conflict though - One Tree Hill starts next week and is on at 9 pm. It doesn't fit in my Monday TV lineup. Good thing MTV replays the shows many times during the week and online =)

reuniting with family friends

I wish I had a picture to post up...but sadly, I didn't take a picture. Last night, Mike and I, along with my dad went to visit Kuya Mike, Tita Mila, Irene and family. Mike and Irene have four kids - Lian, Sylvest, Max and Zack. Gino and my dad use to live with them (it's a long story) and I would occasionally visit them on the weekends. Lian and Sylvest were 5 and 3 back then and now they are 19 and 17. They have grown up so much and surprisingly, still remember me. I use to babysit them at times.

Today, my dad and I had plans to visit Gino (it's 6 months today) and Kuya Mike and his whole family came. After we went to Congee Dynasty and Tim Horton's. They were going to go to the mall but I decided to go home and finish up some laundry. It's been really fun hanging out with them, it's like being with family because 10 something years ago, they were pretty much my family. Irene is like an older sister to me, we both love shopping for great deals and I look forward to seeing her more often since she is staying in Mississauga with the boys while Kuya Mike and Tita Mila go back to the Philippines and Lian goes back to Queen's.

I am still in shock how Lian and Sylvest have grown up, I still remember them as little kids and now they are really good kids, polite and with a good head on their shoulder. They really take care of their younger siblings who are 11 and 3. I wish that Gino was around to see them.

back from the beach

We arrived back home Saturday/Sunday at 2:00 am to some mild weather. What a homecoming! I was bracing myself for the cold winter chill to hit me but it was a treat to come home in the middle of the night to nice weather.

Varadero was an experience, an experience meaning the blustery wind by the beach, the really cool breeze at night but the luxury of being able to tan with the hot sun and nice breeze during the day. The food was okay, the room was alright, the resort was nice but we definitely overpaid because of the holiday season. I have no idea why they jack up the price over the Christmas break. The weather is not that hot, it's cool at night and there are days when it's overcast, so with that said, I don't think that Mike and I will ever go away for Christmas. This year, it served the purpose of me not wanting to be in the city for Christmas and at the resort, it definitely did not feel like Christmas.

Stay tuned for some pictures...

In 24 hours, we will be leaving for Varadero, Cuba. So with that said, although I am skipping Christmas, I want to wish you and yours a Merry Christmas. I will be thinking about you while I am sipping a mojito on the beach!

Happy Birthday to Jenn N, AWong, BKelly, KeniKen and the lovely Belle!

nothing, just plain old nothing

I LOVE BEING AT HOME and DOING NOTHING!!! Absolutely love it! I should be packing, I am doing it but also trying to clean out my dresser. I have been to the mall 4 days in a row but not to buy christmas gifts. I am totally obsessed with makeup again and all I do is hang out at Sephora and MAC.

card for G

Today I am going to visit Gino before I leave for vacation. I know that Christmas time from now on will always be difficult but this year will be the toughest since it's the first one him. I feel guilt that I am leaving my dad behind but I honestly just need to get away - away from this city, away from my family, away from drama, away from it all...Mike understands this and I hope my family does too.

I bought this card for Gino and I am writing the card contents here so I can always remember what it says - because it's perfect.

To My Brother...
for All the
Christmas Memories
We Share

You can't choose your family,
so I guess I was just lucky
to have a brother like you.
We fussed and we teased,
we had fights and we had fun,
and always in my heart I knew
that I would do anything for you.
We forged a bond
that time cannot erase.
You can never know
how proud I am to tell the world,
"That's my brother,"
but I'm even prouder to say,
"That's my friend."

Wishing You a Christmas
Full of Dreams come True

Gino - I hope wherever you are, you are at peace and you are finally happy. I have hated Christmas for as long as I can remember but having you along my side always made it easier and more enjoyable for me. I can't tough it out without you and I am hoping that by getting away from it all, I will be able to just get through Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. I know it's early but I won't be around so Merry Christmas...

list of movies i want to watch (Dec edition)

**UPDATED POST - as moPar suggested, I am re-posting this post to include clips of the movies**

Here I go again with my lists - the last time I did this was back in April. I watched all of the movies I listed except for Dark Knight (still not allowed to watch it because of certain scenes), He's Just Not That Into You (release date was pushed to next year) and Nights in Rodanthe (waiting for it to come out on DVD).

Time for a new list for the next couple of months:

November 7, 2008 - Madagascar 2: Escape to Africa (I watched this already because my mom wanted to see it, I would wait for the DVD. The song, I like to Move it, was funnier when they played it in the first movie)

November 21, 2008 - Twilight (I can't wait, I can't wait, I can't wait! For those who have read the book and are as much obsessed as I am, you probably can't wait to see Bella and Edward)

November 21, 2008 - Bolt (I put this on my list because Mike wants to see it and I figure we can watch it on our monthly movie date night)

December 2, 2008 - The Day the Earth Stood Still (I love these types of aliens - I think - are coming to invade the earth. I actually have no idea what this movie is about, the movie title and the trailer are just so cool)

January 9, 2009 - Bride Wars (Total chick flick that I must watch with SAD because Jake from OTH is on it and she loves him - well, I think she still does)

January 16, 2009 - Notorious (Who wouldn't want to watch a movie about Biggie, the soundtrack alone should make you want to drag yourself to watch it)

February 6, 2009 - He's Just Not That Into You (I have been waiting for this movie snce earlier this year, it's a star-studded cast...in my eyes)

February 13, 2009 - Confessions of a Shopaholic (Read the book, now of course I have to watch the movie. I hope it's as funny as the book. If you have never read the Shopaholic series, I demand you go out and buy it now!)

There are more movies I want to watch but I think that I will post only for movies that are coming within the next three months. I will do up another list in January.

Michael Copon = Jacob Black???

This post is only for Twilight die-hard fans, which means JH and DSS (if only she would watch the movie LOL) or OTH fans, which still means you DSS!!! I heard a rumour that Summit may be trying to get Michael Copon to play Jacob Black. Can you imagine? This will make me want to watch New Moon even more - RPattz and Felix the Blue Power Rangers (Michael Copon is from One Tree Hill and the Power Rangers TV show) in one film - oh my!!! I'll just have to wait and see if this rumour is true. Also, can't wait for Twilight to come out on DVD, apparently there are 10 deleted scenes...

2012

When I was shopping with Maureen yesterday, she was telling me about the movie, The Day the Earth Stood Still (a movie on my list). She reads my blog so she told me her thoughts on the movie which from the sounds of it, she didn't think it was that great, definitely a " wait until it comes out on DVD". We both decided that we really like natural disasters, the world is coming to an end type movies - Armageddon, Deep Impact, A Day After Tomorrow, etc.

Well, there is this movie that Mike and I saw a trailer for - 2012. Here is the youtube clip but for a HQ HD version, check out the trailer here.



And guess what MoPar - the movies comes out on your birthday next year!!!

poor VC

Tonight I went to the Raptors game with my dad. Thanks Encore for the great seats. I remember when Vince Carter left Toronto, Beej, Jonathan and I think Chad took me to his first game in Toronto with the Nets and we "booed" our brains out. Years later, Raptor fans are still booing Vince. This time I did not join the crowd. Yes, we are all bitter that he left but really, we are the sore losers that are still booing him to this day. I actually felt bad for the guy. During introductions when they booed him...during the game whenever he got his hands on the ball...at the free throw line. Imagine if people booed you for every move you made. I wanted to cry for him. Maybe he doesn't care that we make these harsh remarks at him...cuz at the end of the day, what makes us weak (our booing), makes him stronger (his scoring).

WHAT AM I TALKING ABOUT, I know sh*t about basketball!!! I just wanted to cry everytime the crowd booed him.

my new boots

I bought my first pair of boots for the winter season in November. I have always wanted grey boots and Julie helped me with my search. See, I have this tendency to think and overthink about my shopping purchases, I will want to hold off and then when I decide that I want them, they are gone. I am a firm believer in "You snooze, you lose" but I never follow it. Anyway, Julie MADE me buy these Chinese Laundry boots. They are so comfortable because the heel is not super high but I have to admit that there is no thread at the bottom. It's a bit slippery to walk on carpet.


Just last week, I tried on another pair of boots. I was looking for winter boots that could replace my Puma boots from a few years ago. I need a pair that I could walk in through the snow. Again, I couldn't decide if I should buy them so I emailed Julie about them. Well, after some calling, Julie went and picked them up for me. I guess she is tired of my whining when what I want is nowhere to be found. So, here are my new Skechers boots. I love how they look like leg warmers!

movie review: mamma mia!

I thought that this movie was going to be stupid. I had heard mixed reviews but after K. Kelly told me that she really liked this movie and that I should try and watch it, Mike and I checked it out this afternoon. I LOVE IT! K. Kelly, you were right, it really lifts your spirits and makes you want to get up and dance. I actually think that the movie was better than the play. If you love ABBA music like I do, you will totally sing along. One thing that bothered me though was Pierce Bronson's singing...you'll have to see for yourself.

| blarkness rating: 5/5 |

my holiday begins...

Today was my last day at work and now I am off until January 5th. What a treat for me! I can now start to pack for my Cuba vacation. Since it's the beginning of winter, there is nothing that I can buy for our trip. I will have to resort to whatever I had in the summer to wear, which isn't a lot because I dressed like a bum with my lack of motivation and my loss of weight. I have a full week planned out next week that includes a Raptor game, one session of therapy, a pedicure, a visit to Gino, some drinks with friends and a haircut. I also want to clean the condo, watch some movies (Dark Knight, Mamma Mia) and clean out my closet. I know that the week will go by fast so I will milk it for all I can. Let the fun begin...

fabFive on rotation

Here is what I have been listening to lately:

Sex on Fire, Kings of Leon - As usual, Mike wanted me to listen to their album and I should have because I could have gone to their concert when Mike wanted to go. Mike left his iTouch in my bag and ended up listening to the album all day. Other notable songs...Closer, Manhattan and Use Somebody.

Poker Face, Lady Gaga - I absolutely love this song. Some days, I just have it on repeat!

Amnesia, Britney Spearsit reminds me of an old school song, I am talking old school 60s song. Other notable songs...If You Seek Amy, Kill the Lights, Blur, actually the whole album is good.


Never Think, Rob Pattinson - If you love Edward that you must love Edward singing LOL! This doesn't even sound like him but it's him. Thanks JN for introducing me to the song and also telling me what song it is that he is singing in the movie.


Flightless Bird, American Mouth, Iron & Wine - Another song from the Twilight soundtrack that I like.

birthday

Today is my birthday and although birthdays are a happy celebration, I feel very sad to not have my brother here to celebrate with me. Emotionally, it's difficult to celebrate with family and know that Gino will not be eating dinner with us and superficially, Gino always bought me the best presents, DS or Wii games that I would never think to buy myself. Gino was a huge gamer and he is the one who introduced me to my DS. I remember when I would go and visit Gino and my dad on the weekends. I would hang out with Gino and just watch him play video games all night.

Yesterday I went out with a few girlfriends and my sisters-in-law and I really got to enjoy myself but today it's been tough. I have received many birthday greetings and I am thankful but I am missing the one person I would have loved to hear from.

Gino, wherever you are, I miss you so much and it's tough to celebrate with you not around. I am trying so hard to enjoy this day but I can't stop thinking about you. I hope that somewhere out there, you are also thinking of me too...

i swear this is my last twilight post

Ya...so...I am obsessed but I am sure that there are other girls who are more obsessed than myself. Yes, I have a disorder, an addiction but doesn't everyone. Mike's addiction is Britney (who would have thought) and my addiction is Twilight. Yes, we live in a weird household but in our world, it's so much fun.

Here is something I came across...do not read if you have NOT seen the movie. It will spoil it for you. Read Twilight Fanatics, You'll Love This - this girl totally broke down the movie after seeing it four times. I have seen it three times, and if I had gone for a fourth time, I would probably have done the same thing...take notes =)

tough week

This week, even though I had my work Christmas work party on Monday has been the LONGEST week ever! I only worked a half day on Monday. Tuesday was busy preparing for a program on Wednesday and then dinner with Edilka at Lee. Expensive but very good food (mango mojito, matchstick potatoes [see photo], slow braised beef, miso black cod, garlic shrimp and chinese crepe - not sure if these are all the proper names). Wednesday was program day meaning a 7:00 am start and leaving my house at 5 fricking 45 in the am. Got to go home and relax after work since my SSP meeting was rescheduled to next week. Yesterday was a frustrating day working with very slow internet connection but the day was made up with some shopping (grey shrug, black tight pants, purple top, purple halter top, black skirt, Dianne's bday gift, Secret Santa gift for work, magazines and a special birthday treat from Mike - reversible B&W polka dot bikini and a cool Roxy bikini bottom).


I am really looking forward to baking tonight with my mom and the Wong Christmas party tomorrow night. Gino normally would go to the Wong's house so it was really nice of them to invite me, Mike and my mom. And then Sunday is brunch at Boiler House with my girlfriends. I can't wait!

calphalon christmas TAS party

On Monday, December 1st, my office went to Calphalon for our Christmas party. We were split into teams to tackle three courses - appetizer, main and dessert. It was such a fun experience and I have Mike to thank for suggesting it to my company. Our French menu consisted of:

Pan Seared Scallops with Spinach Puree & Tomato Coulis
Mussels Provencal


Steak an Poivre with Pan Jus (see above photo)
Herb Roast Potatoes
Haricots Vert Provencale


Apple Tarte Tatin with Creme Anglaise (see above photo)

Welcome Little Daga

Yesterday afternoon, my BFF, Stephanie gave birth to Callum Daniel. I wish I had a picture to post up but I just got the news. I can't wait to meet the little one.

the only one awake

I am at the Ponce's house and I think that everyone is asleep. Mike is beside me, happily snoring. Yes, I think that I am the only one awake and what am I doing...blogging. Well, it's been pretty fun so far, had our Starbucks, a delicious dinner, yummy popcorn, caught up with Richie and Jes and got to play with the two kids. Rylen is addicted to Nintendo DS (just like me but has better games) and RJ is a bundle of joy, always so happy to just be kicking it with the older folks. The highlight of the night is when they discovered Photo Booth on Mike's macbook. This is the cutest picture ever!

I can't wait for breakfast tomorrow morning and thanks again for the bday presents! Pajamas are always the best - didn't I just blog about that the other day?!?!

sleepovers

Sleepovers. Remember them from when you were a child. You would have one friend sleepover or have a slumber party with several of your friends. Those were the good, old days. Now, we are adults, into our 30s, have our own homes, maybe even have kids...yet, tomorrow Mike and I will be going to a sleepover in Ajax. I know it seems silly, to be an adult and staying over at your friend's house but I think it's okay. We rarely get to spend time with our friends, everyone is so busy with their own lives but being able to spend 24 hours is kinda cool, especially when you haven't seen them in a couple of months. Plus, I know that Rylen will enjoy the company of Tita Leesh and Tito Mike. There are only a few of our friend's kids who remember me and Mike so it makes it so worthwhile when Rylen is really excited when we come for a visit. Richie and Jes are truly great friends. They still include Mike and I in their lives even though we don't have our own kids. And because we are so close to them, I really feel bad that I haven't been around since RJ was born and he is already 9 months old.

So, in my eyes, sleepovers are awesome and you are never too old for a slumber party!

so long...farewell...

This afternoon, my director informed our team that she has quit and her last day in the office will be December 12th. No one saw this coming but we should have. Her making me do many of her day to day tasks, her asking me to take the lead on program days, all these little things should have been a clue but I didn't pick up on it, none of us did. I am happy for her that she has made this decision to stay home with her kids, though at the same time, I am shocked!!! Utterly shocked. JG has been the best boss I have ever had. She could drive me crazy at times but she is such a smart, driven woman. I am glad that I have acquired some of her traits over the four years that I have worked with her. I am sad to see her go, things will be different without her. We had a great team with JC and the addition of CL. RB and I will have to manage through what is next to come.

Am I ready for change? I don't know. Am I ever really ready for change? So much has happened this year, that for once, can something just be stable in my life?

christmas shopping - part 2

Here is the second part of some of my ideas for Christmas gifts.

For the person in charge of the household or avid traveller:
Sometimes it's hard to keep track of who should be doing certain chores, this notepad sure will help - Pad - Chores or who someone who travels a lot and need a checklist of what to pack (luckily I have created my own personal checklist that I am always happy to share with those who need it) - Pad - Pack This

For music lovers, again:
I had posted speakers that were giant ear buds but these speakers are smal and compact - Retro Block iPod Speakers

For the person who will never buy things they don't really need:
No one ever buys themselves pajamas, people always wait to receive them - Aerie Boyfriend pj set

For movie buffs:
I never gave much thought to Blu-Ray movies but after watching Interview with a Vampire and Wall-E at Sam's Club, Blu-Ray is a must. So buy your family, your parents, your loved one a Blu-Ray player or if you already have one, stock up on movies (I attached a link to Best Buy's website but I find that Blu-Ray is cheaper at Wal-Mart) - Blu-Ray movies

fulfilling my obsession

After several emails with a girl, (she shall remain nameless) who is obsessed as I am with Twilight (it's okay for me to admit it but I don't want to bait out others), here are some links to check out (only bother if you have developed a strong addiction and have become a Twilighter - what I like to call myself, yes I am a geek):

Vanity Fair Article

Vanity Fair Interviews with the Cast

Vanity Fair Photos

Vanity Fair Video

US magazine Cheat Sheet

In Style Page

Twilight Central on EW

the life & times of GO train rides

Yesterday, I was wearing my grey Chinese Laundry high boots with skinny dress pants. This girl who always takes the same train as me in the morning was lining up to exit the train and having a conversation with her male friend. She was speaking to him as if I wasn't even there. This is what she said, "If she can wear dress pants tucked into her boots like that to work, then I probably can. I have seen her wear them with skirts and other girls have done the same thing so I don't see why I can't. I have these boots that I want to wear but I didn't think that dress pants tucked into boots were very professional-looking to wear to work." I was right there...no headphones on and I wasn't sleeping. I knew that she was talking about me.

Anyway, today I saw her and guess what...she was wearing skinny dress pants tucked into her boots. I find it too funny that she would say it one day and immediately do it the next day.

who wants poutine?

For my cousin Marilen in the States, the next time you are here, we must take you to this place (Maureen just told me about it, I have yet to try it) Smoke's Poutinerie.

again, i'm in love

I fell in love with the books and I think that I am falling in love with the movie. Like Bella to Edward, the movie & book are my personal heroin. I'm addicted. I first watched Twilight on Friday by myself. I worked so hard so that I could leave work Friday afternoon to watch the 1:40 pm show. After two hours, I left the theatre unsure of how I felt about the movie. I spoke to Mike and Stfne and told them that I loved the movie but hated it at the same time. I really did not know what to think of it. All I knew was that I hated the movie because it missed many detailed parts of the story (I can't explain, you just have to have read the book), Edward didn't seem like Edward in the book, and I loved the movie because K. Stewart was so perfect for the Bella part. Then, after dim sum with MoRo and Mike, we went to watch Twilight. This time, I fell in love with the movie. I fell in love with Edward and I fell in love with how they showed the Cullens. I am glad that I watched it again because I now feel different about it. I do though, want to read Twilight and New Moon again. Mike enjoyed it and I really hope that he decides to read the book. We got home and watched Interview with a Vampire. Too graphic for me...I still love the Cullens - the good vampires (but I have to admit - James is hot!) For those who have read the book and for those who have not...let me know what you think of the movie. Go out and watch it...I want to hear your thoughts and opinions.

birthday wish list

As requested by my BFF, Julie, I have added my birthday wish list to the side bar. She needs a few ideas...

Twilight Time

Twilight opens this weekend. I wish that I had tickets to the advance screening but sadly, I must try and watch it over the weekend...and I am not sure when. Right now, it looks like I may just have to watch it tomorrow during work hours. I have too much going on this weekend.

After reading all four books, falling in love with the saga, all the hype about it, this is one movie I have to watch on the big screen. I see how people get obsessed, like Harry Potter...

I hope this movie does justice to the book. You know how it is, the movie always lets you down and of course, the books is so much better. The only movie that was better than the book is The Devil Wears Prada (in my opinion!)

To all you Twilighters out there...see you in the theatres!

FABFive on rotation

So, I still really need to update my iPod. My excuse is I am going to load up songs to Gino's iPhone and I just haven't had time to do it. Here is my list of what I listen to on Mike's laptop:

It's Over, Jesse McCartney - kinda embarrassed to admit I listen to Jesse McCartney but he has catchy songs. After hearing Leavin', he got me interested.

Let It Rock, Kevin Rudolph f/ Lil' Wayne - I have no idea where and when I first heard this song. Mike laughed at me when I played it for him, and he loves it as much as me.

Angel, Natasha Bedingfield - She has a great voice and now I remember her singing this song when she opened for NKOTB.

Miss Independent, Ne-Yo - who doesn't love this song? He makes the best dance/R & B songs. As Stfne says, all his songs sound like summer...

Keeps Gettin Better, Christina Aguilera - I really enjoyed her performance at the MTV Music Awards but the song didn't do anything for me. But now that I hear it again, it's grown on me.

via email

My cousin sent this to me through email but I thought it would be fun to answer it on my blog...

1. What is your occupation right now? Senior Program Coordinator
2. What color are your socks right now? Not wearing socks
3. What are you listening to right now? Keeps Gettin' Better - Christina Aguilera
4. What was the last thing that you ate? Keebler Sandies Shortbread - Dark Chocolate Almond
5. Can you drive a stick shift? Can I even drive period?
6. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Dianne
7. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Of course!
8. How old are you today? 31, soon to be 32 in 21 days
9. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV? Don't watch sports
10. What is your favorite drink? Stella Artois Legere
11. Have you ever dyed your hair? Yes 12. Favorite food? Junk
13. What is the last movie you watched? Quantum of Solace
14. Favorite day of the year? Halloween
15. How do you vent anger? In many ways...
16. What was your favorite toy as a child? Barbies, CPK, My Lil Pony
17. What is your favorite season? Summer
18. Cherries or Blueberries? Cherries
19. Do you want your friends to e-mail you back? I would if I was emailing this out
20. Who is the most likely to respond? If I was sending this by email, maybe Julie
21. Who is least likely to respond? Jessica
22. Living arrangements? Condo with Mike
23. When was the last time you cried? Monday
24. What is on the floor of your closet? handbags, books, shoes, knitting stuff, towels
25. Who is the friend you have had the longest that you are sending to? probably Carm from back in high school or one of my cousins
26. What did you do last night ? Dinner with Mike, his parents and my mom
27. What are you most afraid of? cats
28. Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers? I hate burgers
29. Favorite dog breed? N/A
30. Favorite day of the week? Saturday
31. How many states have you lived in? None, I have only lived in Canada
32. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds, after all, they are my best friend LOL
33. What is your favorite flower? Hydrangeas

game review: mystery case files millionheir

I bought this game, Mystery Case Files MillionHeir over two weeks ago but I was too busy reading the Twilight books. Mike and I went to Ajax on Sunday and the boys were going to play video games while the girls were off to a baby shower. I brought my DS and this game to keep me occupied while the boys played COD for Xbox 360. So far, it's pretty interesting and also pretty basic (although I am a bit slow since I apparently can't tell the difference between a POGO STICK - the toy you jump on and the corn dog you eat). You start off in story mode finding objects in various settings to help you find clues. There is also a quick play mode where you just have to find hidden objects. I can't give a full rating yet because I want to wait until I finish the game. I hope that I don't finish this game in less than a week which is what happened with Diner Dash, Cake Mania and Cooking Mama. Yes, I am a girly gamer!

blarkness rating (so far): 4/5

UPDATE (November 18) - I finished the game on my GO ride home. SUCKS! The game only lasted me two days. The bonus is I think, I can play story mode timed. Should be a challenge for me.

happy 30th birthday mike!

Mike - you are still sleeping right now. It's 5:53 am and I have to leave for work. I hope you enjoy your first day being 30, seriously though, it's not that bad. So - welcome to the club! You are now officially a grown-up... Happy Birthday!

Karma on Saturday

Although Mike isn't exactly turning 30 until Monday, we will be celebrating early at Karma Lounge in Mississauga with about 35 of his friends on Saturday. This place use to be the old Just Desserts. As you can see, they have totally renovated it and I think it's a great place to have a small, intimate party (they make awesome martinis and have this aussie server named Anita, she is so cool).

It will be nice to hang around friends who we haven't see in a while.

chocoholic

After Mike finding some Lindt chocolates at Target that he absolutely loves, I decided to check Shoppers to see if they sell them. And as usual, they don't...but I did find some chocolates that I would like to buy. I might just have to treat myself to these $12.00 box of chocolate desserts - Petits Desserts Ballotin.

goodbye LJ

I just heard the news from my co-worker. I am devastated - Lipstick Jungle has been cancelled. http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2008/11/breaking-nbc-ax.html

iWant

Yes, I am obsessed. I want this Chapters gift card and I am going to see if I can go buy it tomorrow morning!

UPDATE!!! - Yes, I did buy the card today. I was going to get it on Tuesday but I thought I was being silly. I put $15 on the card and then bought 3 puzzle books. They are my latest obsession!

facebook

Last night, my cousin, TMI, kindly shared her username and password with me so that I could check out Gino's facebook page. I had a great time reading his wall, seeing all his friends post up comments. What put a big smile on my face were the silly remarks he would make - like having a mini heart attack from drinking too much red bull or trying to quit smoking in 5, 4, 3, 2... For those who didn't have the privilege to know Gino - he was so quirky and just fun to be around. He always came up with hilarious remarks (only lines that he would come up with and would be allowed to get away with saying) and crazy theories. We all remember the good times we had with Gino and we will never forget them. I hope that his profile never gets removed from facebook. It will be nice to check his page from time to time and just remember how much fun we had when we were with him. I only wish that G blogged more because of his seven or something posts, it was a trip to read what he was up to - from his endless suggestions for upcoming artists, his concert reviews, his rocks missions, his Friday night drinking with his co-workers - he had great thoughts and memories that he wanted us all to remember.

G - we all still miss you like crazy. It's been so difficult not having you with us everyday. Our lives feel empty without the "Gino" putting a smile on our face. Thoughts and memories of you is what gets us through each day and we all can't wait until we see you again.

So this posting is about facebook - will I join? Nope. I can see the hype of why everyone is on it, you stay connected with new and old friends. For me, there is one person that I would to connect with and he is no longer here and can't save me as a friend. That breaks my heart and make me NOT want to join. But thank you T for allowing me to peek around. I hope that in some time, you will let me use your profile to see Gino's page.

Check out his blog and his myspace.

talent = manicures

I must say, I am really proud of myself that I have perfected my manicure. I don't do a full out manicure but I am getting better at painting my nails (especially my right hand) and also cleaning up around the cuticle afterward. My boss, JG, even complimented my nails today and was shocked that I painted them myself. My mom must be so proud of me in what I have accomplished (LOL). My mom always said - if I were to enter a beauty pageant, my talent would be painting nails =)

kai

As I mentioned in a previous post, I was able to meet up with my friend Darina and her son, Kai last month just before I left for Niagara-on-the-Lake. The last time I saw Darina was late November of last year and then she gave birth to Kai in January 2008. Darina and I were together back at Taxi 1999-2001 and we have remained friends since. She has moved around, like even lived overseas, got married, had Kai and now she is back in T.O. for a few months. Even though I only got to chat with her for about an hour, it was nice nice to see her and meet Kai. This kid is adorable...

I have to make sure that I get to see her, Chris and Kai again before they leave to go back to North Carolina early next year. When I was really sad after Gino passed away, I wanted to get away and I was thinking of calling her up to see if I could visit her...I should have called, she had told me after that she would have loved a visit from me. Maybe one day...

i love halloween

This post is delayed a bit. I should have posted it last weekend but I am lazy to upload the picture. Every year, I pay my co-worker's son to go trick-or-treating for me. I am too old to go and I don't have a kid to take. So I paid Liam $12 to go and boy - did he deliver. I guess since it was a beautiful warm night, he was out longer and got so much candy...and it was all for me. His mom didn't let him keep any of the candy except for the chips. I was so excited when I got the bag...I am in heaven!

christmas shopping - part 1

Since I am skipping Christmas this year and not buying or receiving presents, I thought that I might help some of you with some gift ideas:

For your co-worker:
With the cold weather approaching, who wouldn't want a hot cup of tea? - Mighty Leaf Tea

For your girlfriend with OCD:
What better than to have a journal that has the check boxes already in them - Pierre Belvedere Pocket To-Do List

For the ocean and gaming lover:
Bring the ocean to them with this puzzle game for Nintendo DS - Zenses Ocean

For the girl obsessed with make up:
Limited edition set are the best around the holiday season. This set is the ultimate for the girl who loves make up (it is pricey though) - Stila Blockbuster Set

For cute baby girls:
If your little one is a princess, these lil heels are perfect for her - Heelarious High Heel

For the busy mom who can't relax:
This is tried and tested my yours truly. Your mom can spray this on her pillow and she will definitely get a good night's rest - Pillow Mist in Lavendar Vanilla

For your music lovin friend:
These speakers are hilarious - 500XL Giant Earbud Speakers

For the main man in your life:
A t-shirt that isn't mass-produced and has special meaning to me - Cameesa - The Vinyl Lounge

For the avid book read:
I can't stress this enough, buy the bookworm the set if they haven't already picked it up - The Twilight Saga

That's about all I can think of for now....stay tuned for a part 2

The Vinyl Lounge T-shirts are In [New Cameesa T-shirt]

The Vinyl Lounge T-shirts are In [New Cameesa T-shirt]

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fortune time

I was thinking about fortune cookies this morning, thinking that it would be cool to have an application where you could break the cookie and get your fortune. It's not the same though because I love eating fortune cookies. I found this on the net, check it out...





Make your own Fortune Cookie!

buffalo shopping

Recently, Mike and I went to Buffalo with the Dagas (yes, I know that the dollar is bad). I wasn't planning to buy anything, well, maybe a new Cole Haan bag to replace my other bag that got raped. We basically went to the outlets very quickly and to Target. Here is the bag that I bought (this picture doesn't do any justice, you have to see if in real life):

Stfne also bought a bag. She wasn't planning to buy one until she found out that I only paid $150 for mine. We didn't have to twist her arm. Once Rex agreed to her buying a bag, she marched straight into the store (I guess she was eyeing one already) and pick it up to go and pay for it. Here is her bag:

I am not going into detail about our very fast shopping trip but I do have to say that it was nice to spend time with the Dagas. It was a warm sunny day, conversation was great, dinner at Spring Rolls was fun and the company was awesome. I am glad that I have now introduced Brayden to Peek-a-Pooh. S & R - Don't forget to always buy him one whenever you come across them.

Here is our driving playlist (all of Brayden's fav songs):

So What - Pink

Miss Independent - Ne-Yo

Lovebug - Jonas Brothers

Burnin Up - Jonas Brothers

S.O.S. - Jonas Brothers

Flo-Rida - In the Ayer

book review: eclipse

Eclipse was the last book that I had to read to complete the series. I have to admit that this book took longer to read. I didn't find it as intriguing as the other books but it went into more depth of the love triangle. And who does't like reading about Edward Cullen.

After reading this book, I decided to re-read Breaking Dawn to complete the whole series in order. Then I will read Midnight Sun, which is posted on the author's website because the draft was leaked (dirty scums).

These four books are now my favorite books. My therapist thought I was crazy for reading a book about vampires shortly after my brother died but really...reading a fantasy book helped me escape from some of the painful thoughts that were going through my head the past couple of months. I was so caught up in a fantasy world that it took me away from the reality I was trying to avoid.

blarkness rating: 4.5/5

product review: l'oreal voluminous mistake proof marker eyeliner

On my recent shopping trip to Target, I was convinced by bp to try out this new eyeliner. I am not quite sure it is new or if it's even available in Canada. But for $5.24, I decided that I would try it out. There was no black available, so I picked up black brown.

If you are new to liquid eyeliner or don't have a steady hand, this is a great option for you. As you can see in the picture, the tip is exactly like a marker. Therefore, you can line your lids thick or use the outer, thinner tip to make a thin line or line your lower lids. Going over your first intial line will intensify the colour.

I love how you can use the different angles of the tip and also how it glides on so easily. I now must look at the drug stores or Wal-Mart to see if I can buy it in black.

blarkness rating: 5/5

book review: New Moon

Like the first book, I read New Moon in four days. At first I wasn't into it, the story of Edward and Bella got lost but it did introduce a new character, Jacob, who is crucial to the whole Twilight Saga. But halfway threw the book, it picked up and I once again, could not put the book down. It's funny that no matter where I go (twice on the GO Train and at the dentist office), I get asked if I like the books. It's such a conversational topic. Everyone seems to be reading the saga or knows someone reading it. I don't know why I bother to do book reviews because I hate giving away any details. JH - you know who you are, I told you I would do the test run and I honestly think that you might enjoy it, even though it's a vampire love story. You can borrow the books anytime, I will be done all four books by the weekend.

blarkness rating: 5/5

book review: Twilight

As I probably mentioned in a previous post, I read the fourth book in the Twilight Saga, Breaking Dawn. I was so intrigued by it and so wrapped up in the story that I couldn't put it down. I did pick up the other first three books on Monday. I read Twilight in four days. These books are so addicting. As I was reading Twilight, it answered all the questions that I had reading Breaking Dawn. But it was more intense. In BD, I got it that Edward and Bella were in love but in Twilight, you read about how strong and powerful their love is. Yes, this book is about vampires but it's not scary at all. I hate horror movies and I am scared of the dark but reading this book is so different. You will begin to have an attachment to the vampire family in the book and you will also become attached to Edward. I could go on forever about the book but I STRONG suggest you go out there and read it for yourself.

blarkness rating: 5/5

product review: Gizmobies

These are the coolest things - Gizmobies. They are pocketable protection for your iPhone, iTouch, iPods, even your cell phones, blackberry or Nintendo DS. I picked up this design for my iPhone and another design for my DS. This daisy design isn't the greatest but since the 3G iPhone came out, they have limited designs for the originals.

blarkness rating 4.5/5 (I knocked off .5 because they have limited designs for the original iPhone)

countdowns are cool

Yes, I love my vacation countdown. Yes, it helps that I can see how many more days until I get out of this cold hellhole. Yes, I know you wish you were going with me and yes, you can come with me...

what i've been up to...

It's been over a week and I haven't blogged. So, here's a little snipped of what's been going on with me:

• I finished Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer. On a recent shopping trip, I bought the other three books, Twilight, New Moon and Eclipse. I started reading Twilight, the first book on Monday and am almost finished. PLEASE READ THE SERIES IN ORDER...I was being cheap by reading the last book which I got my hands on, I really wanted to see if I would enjoy the series before investing in it. If you are interested in reading it, I can lend you the books.
• The conference, Fall Forum, in Niagara-on-the-Lake that I was planning was a huge success. Learning during the day, dancing with an open bar at night (seeing my mom on the dance floor?) mentoring sessions the following day, and to top that delicious food all weekend!
• I got new eyeglasses. They are a cute pair and wow, I can see so much better now. With the sun not making an appearance these days (I love sunglasses), I can wear my glasses to work.
• Tita Pinkie came and left after 9 days. It's different without her here. She didn't stay at our place that much, she was too busy partying with my mom.
• I spent my day off on Monday with Julie. We shopped at Heartland and did not go overboard on the spending. I got the books, a purple cardigan, two turtlenecks and boots that I ended up returning yesterday. Mike pointed out that since I am short, I should opted for boots with a heel rather than flat boots.
• I saw Darina (my ex co-worker from Taxi) and her son, Kai. He is adorable. The cutest thing ever!!! I will post up some pictures that I took of him later.

That's about it for now. I should be heading off to work. It's been a short week for me but it seems to be dragging. I can't wait until Friday. It's been a horrible two days at work, I hope today is better =)

sushi dinner

I should be packing right now for Niagara-on-the-Lake. My team and I have organized a young lawyer's conference this weekend. I have been so stressed out by it - pimples, lack of sleep, lack of appetite - that I hope everything turns out okay and that all the work was worth it. It's 9:50 pm and I have to watch Lipstick Jungle in 10 minutes so I am just going to post the photos from Saturday's sushi dinner with Gino's friends. It was very nice of them to come by, and even each bring a bottle of wine. We all ate like champs, the food will speak for itself (see below). Tita showed us how to roll sushi - so, who's up for a sushi dinner at Casa Solon?

I honestly have to say that I love that Gino's friends still keep in touch with us even though he is no longer with us. Being with Gino's friends makes me feel good, like Gino's spirit is with my family through his friends. G's friends are awesome, I truly see why he is friends with each one of them. They are all unique and bring a certain quality to their crew of friends.

sushi

maki rolls

hand rolls and more maki rolls (we must have made about 13 maki rolls)

yours truly

brian and his custom made veggie rolls

Tita Pinkie, Anjay and my mom

Mike, Ryan D., and Andrew

SHIT - Lipstick Jungle isn't on tonight because of the debate =(