New Additions to Money's Chrismukkah List

1. "InStyler" - the hair product/appliance. Sells in retail stores and online. Basically the all-in-one of straighteners/curling irons/shiners/etc.
2. Rachael Yamagata "Elephants" tote from her website.
3. Hardcover Twilight Saga (so I can stop borrowing Mom's)
4. Anything off my AE wish list @ www.ae.com. Search by name.
5. (Spoken with the voice of the Price is Right announcer) ... a new carrrrrrrrrrrrrr! lol

Loves,
Money

Money's Christmas List

So, it's been a while, and I'm sure 50-75% of my readers are pouting. But life's tough. lol.

Sorry guys, but with the holidays, the second job, and the fact that my sweetheart got to stay an EXTRA week with me, I've been a bit MIA.

In the meantime, however, to avoid sending out 800 emails to family and friends up my rear about Christmas gifts, I've decided to make things easy for ya. Below is a list of things that would make Money smile. :)

1) Anything from Sephora. If you need hints, let a sister know. If all else fails, gift cards work wonders. :) AND it'll give a girl something new to review on the blog! See how I just made you getting me Sephora a gift for us BOTH? :)
2) (Family only, as this is an expensive item) - The 3 step kit from Proactiv or the 3 step from Boscia (Oily set). Either one will work just dandy, and will save poor Money from using CVS knock-off Clean & Clear. :)
3) Gift cards to the following: Target, Walmart, American Eagle, Pacific Sunwear, or pretty much any girly store in the mall. Unless your Tiff or Kim, who already know my style, and are welcome to get me a random item of clothing.... :) lol If you are not one of these people, please refrain from purchasing actual clothing, as it will make me sad having to wear it out of pity. lol
4) Bumble and Bumble ANYTHING. Again, kind of a large price tag on some of the items, so don't worry if this is not an option. Any of the following would be LOVELY - "Prep", "Shine", "Thickening" spray, or any shampoo/conditioner set (preferably the thickening).
5) Nothing says "I Love You" like a tanning package.... or a few visits... lol. :)
6) GC to Hair Cosmopolitan, if all else fails. This way, Money can get her hair did, or just go product crazy. :)
7) Pretty much ANYTHING shiny.
8) Sephora Collection Ultimate Blockbuster - palette for 2009
9) Philosphy's "Winter Escape" set -- sephora or online
10) Smashbox's "Wish for the Stars" set
11) Too Faced Glamour to Go 3 set
12) Too Faced Mascara Layering Kit

So, I'm pretty sure that's it thus far. I'll edit it later if something else comes up, but most of the sephora items are $20 or under, and no matter how hard I try, most of you will not listen to my pleas of "I DO NOT want ANYTHING for Christmas".

Hopefully this helps.

And if the Nana is reading this, sorry for the vulgarity. :)

Jecca Leigh

Thursday's Tunes of the Week...

Well, good morning, faithful readers!

This week's tunes will be the top ten most recently added songs on my Ipod... I.E. the new and noteworthy of November 2009... Enjoy!

1. Ain't No Rest for the Wicked - Cage the Elephant. This laid back track first caught my attention on MySpace of all places. With a Beck-esque sound and simple melodies, it's an automatic favorite.
   
2. Russian Roulette - Rhianna. Rhianna takes it back to the days of "Unfaithful" and brings you this new ballad. Both mysterious and heavy, her newest single will take you on an adventure from beginning to end.
3. If You're Wondering If I Want You To (I Want You To) - Weezer. The boys come back big time with this poppy little number that you can't help but bop along with. With sweet, wholesome lyrics and a catchy bridge, it's perfect for a mood-boost.
4. Wheels - Foo Fighters. It's about time they dropped a new song! While this one is surely more pop sounding than their previous work, it's still an instant classic. The guys step away from heavy guitar and angry screams for this track, and do not disappoint.
5. 1901 - Phoenix. This indie hit from the french foursome is just what the doctor ordered. With a sound equivalent to the Nick & Norah soundtrack, you'll be singing along in no time.
6. I Like It Rough - Lady Gaga. Okay, guilty pleasure number one on this list. The beat's fantastic, and melody's pretty catchy. Whether your pro or anti-Ga, this one'll be stuck in your head for hours.
7. 3 - Britney Spears. Okay, definite guilty pleasure number two! Britney finally gives up trying to hold together any semblance of a positive image, and belts out this nasty number confirming her iconic whore status. But the beats pretty decent. So what the hell..
8. Red Light - David Nail. The only country hit to make this week's list, this depressing ode to the break up is melodically and lyrically wonderful. While I personally believe the idea was stolen directly from the boys of Matchbox 20 and their little-known-hit "Rest Stop", I'm still down for a good "slit-your-wrists" track.
9. Heartbreak Warfare - John Mayer. LOVE IT! One of Mayer's newest tracks to be released, this little ditty has one of the best analogies I've seen to date. With lyrics comparing the absolute destruction of fights and breakups to chemical warfare, it's bound to hit you, and hit you HARD. Plus there's the loving mention of my least favorite drug, Ambien,... gotta love it.
10. Kings and Queens - 30 Seconds to Mars. IT IS ABOUT GOD-DAMN TIME, BOYS! For years I sat, waited and wished for them to drop a new EP. The second I lose hope, up it shows on the billboard top twenty - a new song from an old favorite. With the typical sweeping melodies and hard rhythms of any 30 Seconds song, you'll feel instantly at home. The boys shy just enough away from their prior sound to showcase their change and growth, but not out in left-field leaving you wondering "what happened?!" Can't wait for the new EP - if it's anything like this title track, it'll be a chart-topper in no time!

Well that's it for me. Hope you enjoy, and feel free to leave your "OH MY GOD, JESSICA, YOU'RE AMAZING..." comments below.

xoxo,
Jecca Leigh

The Following Is A Public Service Announcement...

This is what happens when you drink with Kimberly Jolin... I present to you, my faithful audience, a brief selection of ridiculous one-liners brought on my FARRRRR too much wine in FARRRRR too short a time span...

"I hear that, brotha!" - Kim, speaking to the fictional character Michael Scott, at far too loud of an interval.

"You can TOO scuba with asthma! They said so on America's Next Top Model!" - Kim, very offended that Creed on the Office had his information wrong.

"That's what happens when I drink -- I get SMARTER! It's INSANE!!!" - Kim

"The Ramen may taste like shit, but these brownies are f***ing goooooooooooooooooood!" - Kim

"Have another glass of wine, Jess..." - Kim, said repeatedly throughout the night, not a good move.

"EVERYTHING I say is funny when induced by Moscato!" - Kim

"I can't find a notebook, but I do have a shit ton of bills I don't intend to pay?!" - Me

"I don't know why we decided to whisper that ENTIRE conversation?" - Me

"I'ma put some Fibersure in my ramen!" - Me, very decidedly.
"I think that's a GREAT idea!" - Kim, very supportive of my brilliance.

"I'm not gonna see you for the rest of the night, am I?" - Kim
"Nonsense, I take very quick poops..." - Me (apparently no topic is sacred after the third glass)

"What the hell is THAT about?! When I have NOTHING going on, I get home in five minutes. When I wanna get home and have a glass of wine, hang out with you, maybe take a shit? Retarded people EVERYWHERE!" - me, yet again, referencing bowel movements. lol.

"Shit. The timer's still going and I took the brownies out twenty minutes ago." - me

"Are you ready?" - Kim getting all spookyyyyyy before Paranormal Activity
"Yes, and that's not the light switch..." - Me

"Tell me when you're done writing down the stupid things I say..." - Kim
"Stop saying stupid things, now I have to write THAT too!" - Me

"I need you to not judge me right now!" - Kim, said while spooning brownie batter out of the bowl


It was a top night, Kim, a TOP NIGHT! Must do it again soon.

xoxo,
J

Skincare Spotlight - November 10th, 2009

Hello, happy readers! And welcome, to another edition of Skincare Spotlight. I'm your host, J-Money, and will be taking the journey with you as we explore....

First Aid Beauty's Detox Eye Roller

After YEARS of attempts, and countless dollars spent, I've finally found it -- the miracle product to bring LIFE back into those tired, worn, dark eyes we've experienced on one-too-many occasions.

This nifty little rollerball does a handful of things, all in one refreshing swipe. I consider it my own little magic wand!

First off, it's PACKED TO THE BRIM with caffeine, and once applied, goes to work to constrict those awful little gangs of blood vessels causing the dark circles. With the additions of other little armies of witch hazel (for protection) and FAB antioxidents (to combat free radicals), this little trick will make you look rested -- even when you got about an hour of sleep... trust me, it WORKS! It even has the words every girl loves to hear -- PARABEN FREE. That's right, ladies, this little wonder does it all WITHOUT the use of perfumes, dyes, soaps, sulfates, or pretty much ANYTHING unnatural.

As a long time insomnia sufferer, I've tried it all. Cucumber slices, specially-tinted moisturizers and concealers, but nothing seemed to do the trick. This little magician goes to work to not only combat those obvious racoon-eyes you're sporting, but reduce pressure and puff... And in the convenient rollerball form, it only takes a second!

The product has just recently begun it's launch at Sephora, making it FINALLY accessible to those who don't trust online shopping (or their neighbors). It retails at approximately $24.00, and is sure to last!

Why are you still reading this? Shouldn't you be in your car headed to your local mall? =)

Love always,
Jessica Leigh

I'm back... You can breathe now.

Wellllllll, I'm officially back from hiatus. Things have been getting a little hectic what with the two jobs, and crazy cuddle time I've been putting in, but I'm back. You're welcome. :)

Well, it's Monday...(pause for celebration?)....and it sucks.

I managed to get wretchedly sick almost the entire weekend, and finish up with a bang. Last night around 10:00 I managed to step on the one piece of glass that DIDN'T make it to the garbage bin, and send it a good two inches into my foot. The next fifteen minutes were a bloody, screaming mess. But short of the limp, all is well.

Not to sure where to go to topic wise today, so I figured I'd hit you up with a little something that might just help you (and your bank account) out.

I recently started working for KGB (pause for laughter). No, not the Russian mafia. The text-message information service. It's been a crazy road from the challenge test all the way to the end of training, but I survived.

On my second week of work, I realized something. This is both easy AND fun! I figure it'd be rude of me not to share.

KGB is a pay-per-use service that allows people to text ANY question and get a helpful and accurate response back in a timely (and usually entertaining) fashion. The best part of the service is that your words are not simply being googled - they go to a HUMAN BEING,... an actual "Special Agent" that researches the subject, and strives to give you back more than your money's worth.

The company is really taking off, and has even added service to the UK, giving agents like me PLENTY of questions to answer.

Just as the customer pays per question sent, Special Agents get paid per answer. There are different rules that go along with this of course. One of the best features of working for them? It truly is a no-hassle, work-from-home second job that you can EASILY do while watching TV or kicking back on the couch.

Can you Google or do other types of Internet research?

If you answered "yes", you can most likely do this job!

YOU pick your hours, or can choose to simply sign in off-shift to work whatever you can - be it 3 minutes or 3 hours!

It is NOT one of those lovely work-from-home schemes that are LITTERING the internet. This is a real job. You need to pass boot camp and training in order to be hired, and from there you'll need to fill out the usual government paperwork. The team they've comprised is both fun, and knowledgeable, making it a BLAST to chat with them while you work (be it about the weather, or when you need help with answering a question).

If this sounds like something you're interested in, I'm happy to give you further instructions below. If not, stay tuned for tomorrow's Skincare Spotlight.

Lata gatas!
Jessica

To find out more information about KGB and how to start your Special Agent career, go to www.kgbkgb.com. From there you can read about how the service works, and take the Special Agents Challenge (your first step in becoming employed by this amazing company!)

For further information, feel free to comment or ask me personally via email.

Thanks,
J

Why You Simply CANNOT Be Friends With Your Ex....

(other than the obvious preference to get a good nights sleep rather than hear his bitching at 11:30 at night?)

Ok, ladies. It's time we learn. Too many times we've tried and failed. It just simply CANNOT work. It's time to address why.

Before deciding if it's possible, let's take a trip down memory lane and think about the following...
Why you split up, how you were treated (both during and after the relationship), the history you have with the person and especially your intention for wanting to remain friends. Are you doing it because you can’t bear to let go? Are you doing it to punish the ex? Are you doing it because the person is genuinely a good friend to you? Why do you really want to be friends?

At this point, it should be clear whether or not you believe you COULD be friends with this person. On the off chance you're that diluted, let's decode the puzzle...

"They've changed..."

No, they haven't. You know they haven't. They know they haven't. But they're puttin' on a damn good show, now aren't they? You start to see allllllllll the things that made you interested in the first place, while all those nasty little behaviors and issues fade slowly to the background under a thin blanket of "change".... Nothing's changed. Quit lying to yourself. It's unhealthy.

Ezine Articles quotes the situation as the following:
"Whether or not your ex indulges in the declarations of undying love, he will probably be at his most apologetic now. He’s finally realized what an amazing person you are (and isn’t that music to your ears?). So you can at least be friends, cant you? You probably want to. After all, it’s better than severing all contact with someone you once loved, isn’t it? But here's the thing: you weren't friends in the first place."

"The friendship ploy is one that abusive/controlling men use frequently, without any sense of irony. If we accept the dictionary definition of a friend as ‘a person with whom one enjoys mutual affection and regard’ then an abusive or controlling relationship offers no foundation for friendship. And yet we are taught from an early age not to turn away the hand of friendship. Of course there are strings attached. Of course he makes you feel bad if you will not comply with his seemingly humble request to be friends."

"What HE ACTUALLY wants is confirmation that he still has power over you. Behind his protestations of friendship, it's not hard to read the subtext of fury and frustration."

So here's the brutally honest fact of it all:
When your relationship with someone who made you feel bad about yourself ends, changing the name of the relationship and continuing won’t leave you feeling any better about yourself.

"When you decide to leave an abusive relationship you have only two choices: you can move on or you can go down. One thing above all others you must have learned from this experience; there is no hope of compromise. The only compromise that was ever made was made by you."

You have a choice: would you rather ‘be friends’ with your ex, or have a life and a future? Rest assured, you can’t have both.

J

I feel a weakness coming on...

Oh, it's true... I have a hardcore obsession with the website Texts from Last Night....

The site is, in basic terms, an ongoing blog of random posts that involve either shocking or scandalous text messages. The bi-line of this site is perfection: "Remember that text you shouldn't have sent last night? We do."

There's usually no back and forth or context to them, but they're all equally infectious in their hillarity. If you haven't seen it yet, I highly recommend it, just click here. (Mom, check this one out, now that you're up to speed on your Chuck Norris!)

Below, I've posted some of my favorites for your enjoyment...

(212): i want you now

(916): you need to stop dating girls with the same name as your mother...or stop drinking so much...I don't want to see this

(504): Wow, Pearl Harbor and The Notebook are on. Its like the Im going to kill myself marathon.

(814): I often get tempted to walk up to her drunk ass and say, "shouldn't you be taking care of your kid?"

(678): Ok so my english teacher told me i could have 5 absences bc of my "problem". I have no idea what she is talking about

(763): Do you know a sam ****, im at the bar right now and lookin for some dirt on her to guilt trip her in to sex

(647): You totally narrated your dogs thoughts for 2 and a half hours last night, and I was enthralled. I didn't say one word, I just listened.

(760): Martha Stewart would most definitely roll a great joint.

(848): it was like the sexual equivalent of when Wilson fell off the raft and floated away

(509): I remember spending $50 at Ozzie's on Friday...my Visa remembers $120.

(540): I would have been "that girl" at the party last night if it wasn't for that girl who puked in the potted plant...

(256): 'in an unhealthy relationship' should def be an fb option

(319): he used a semicolon in his bootycall text, of course he's not gonna go down on me.

(918): I'm pretty sure I'm almost gay. Like, I'd do it if I had no choice. Like, if i were in prison I'd try it.

(619): well I washed the adderal like an idiot. the capsules broke but the beads inside were intact. so my landlady came in and caught me licking the dryer lint screen

(516): Thank God they found balloon boy, I was afraid that Michael Jackson was ordering take out from heaven.

(484): I even made an effort to dress like a conservative young lady who doesnt black out and throw up in her bed regularly today.

(917): well..after leaving the bar you handed me your wallet and said you didnt need it cause you were going to find the cash cab and added 'i'll see you on tv'

(818): Three questions. How does a tomato drive a car, how does an asparagus play a guitar, and how am I still so high that I chose to watch Veggie Tales?

(541): bad to tell him im pregnant over fbook chat?

(480): I just gave the bartender my number in roman numerals. If she figures it out, she's worth a shot

(614): I just found 51 cents in my bed. Did you leave me a tip?

(407): i went to disney world today with my friends, met snow white, then saw her later at a bar. she is naked next to me in her bed, passwed out. when you wish upon a star...

(774): i just walked into a room at this party and someone yelled "dibs!"...

(919): so I was just driving high and I stopped to let a pinecone cross the road because I thought it was a hedgehog.

oh god, there's too many to list. visit the damn site.

j

Thursday Tunes of the Week

ok... does it really need to be said? like you guys really have NO IDEA what's coming...? honestly.... I had more faith in you...

You guessed it guys - this weeks review will be tearing apart the soundtrack to New Moon that dropped to an early release date last week - and millions of fans went crazy in a simulteanous wave of excitement....

Strangely enough - or rather, as I would've predicted, this long-awaited release dropped to very mixed reviews. Let me attempt to break down why briefly before hitting a track by track description with my own opinions.

Haters:
1) Most of the tweens that gobbled up Twilight, and the original soundtrack to the first in the saga, were hoping for the same theme -- pumped up teenage emo angst with a pop twist. Guess what, kids... not the case.
2) Most of the fans, myself included, were hoping for additional tracks from either Paramore or Mr. Pattinson, himself. To our disappointment, neither show up on this new album. Paramore had made a statement early in discussions of the New Moon EP stating they didn't want to be known as "the Twilight band", and would not be releasing a track for the 2nd installment. While originally disappointed, I have to agree with their choice.
3) Surprisingly, the choice to have the theme for New Moon and first release from the album go to Death Cab for Cutie brough a similar mixed opinion. For fans of the underground fantasticness that is Death Cab, you were faced with two options: love them for putting out such a great song and attaching it to such an amazing book/movie saga? Or hate them for selling out. I personally am somewhere in between. A long time DCFC follower myself, I am thrilled to see them reach such mega-stardom with an amazing track, and happy for them. While I do not consider them sell-outs in any fashion, I will surely be upset with little teeny boppers start referencing "the new band" Death Cab for Cutie, and henceforth, start ruining the music and history of my fave quartet. Regardless, the show must go on.

Fans of the soundtrack:
1) Most fans will like this soundtrack for two reasons:
A) It's dark, depressing angst-driven songs are from mostly unheard-ofs, and would already fit in quite well with our Ipod shuffle selection for their strange melodies and bizarre sounhds.
B) For fans of the books, most will already know this: the tone of New Moon is inherintly dark, ominous, and depressing in itself. It would be ridiculous to have a slew of pump-up poppy tracks to illustrate the sadness and outright devastation and confusion taking place in the 2nd installment.

Unfortunately, you must now choose your fate: is the music on this EP something you could enjoy or even appreciate? If not, it doesn't make you a bad fan. You're in aggreance with have the Meyer die-hards that just don't feel it's a good release. But then again, you could feel completely the opposite, and come to appreciate the musical bravery the album portrays...

Let's get to the review, shall we? Please keep in mind I've had the soundtrack now for only a few days, and my feelings on it are only based on a few runs at it. Here are my thoughts thus far.

The long-awaited release is put together by a music supervisor with one HELL of a resume... most of which I own and ADORE, so I was pumped! Alexandra Patsavas does it again - putting out one hell of an album that's cohesive, features many underground favorites, and does is it all in her own unique style. With a background list of supervising the musical choices for The O.C., Grey's Anatomy, and countless others, you will NOT be disappointed with her lineup for New Moon. With each song being released either new or remixed FOR New Moon specifically, you won't be running into any tracks you have previous ties with.

1) Meet Me On the Equinox - Death Cab for Cutie. Ok, forgive me for a second here, but YAYYYYYYYY! Seriously? My long-time love affair with Death Cab has reached it's pinnacle. This track pounds with DCFC's typical rhythms, and is, in my opinion, PERFECT for the theme to this release. With lyrics that speak more to Eclipse than New Moon, "Your last breaths moving through you as everything ends...", and hard-hitting guitar hooks, this track works perfectly as an opener be it for the soundtrack of the movie itself.

2) Friends - Band of Skulls. This underground favorite sings borderling cheasy lyrics over a bright pop beat -- one of the very few uptempo/upbeat numbers of the entire album. This oldschool Rock 'N Roll sound brings a sweet nostalgia to the album, even with it's outpouring of semi-retarded lyrics..."My friends, they are so beautiful, they're my friends." Yeah. So far, I've decided it's fun...I haven't decided much more on it yet. I'll keep you posted though.

3) Hearing Damage - Thom Yorke. Can I tell you how pumped I was to hear the infamous Radiohead lead singer would be contributing to this album? Everything the man touches turns to gold. This bizarre little number is crazy in ways only Yorke can accomplish. With quick-changing rhythms and obscure lyrics, this quasi-techno number will definitely rock some heavy bass at the very least. Lyrics? Perfectly in line with the film/book plotline. "Your mind is restless, they say you're getting better, but you don't feel any better..." Fantastic. The only problem I've run into with this track, in learning it over the past few days, is that Yorke's typical changes in tempo and melody leave me fumbling as I try to anticipate his next move. But give it time. I'll get it down eventually.

4) Possibility - Lykke Li. This track is astounding in it's entirety. Slow, and driven by passion, newcomer Li brings us a taste of her Swedish roots. At first glance, I wasn't terribly impressed. With lyrics that are hard to decipher, and an INCREDIBLY repetitive theme, I expected more out of the 2nd most downloaded track off the album. This number took some time to grow on me, but with it's eerily similar sound to that of Following by Chungking (reviewed in last Thursday's Tunes to Chill To post), I had a very easy time falling for it. Listener beware: you will most likely have to Google the lyrics to have any hope of singing along. "There's a possibility all that I have is all I'm gon' get."

5) A White Demon Love Song - The Killers. Okay,here's my only arguement with the awesomeness of both this album, and the Killers in general: What the hell is up with this track?! I'm seriously hoping this is something that will grow on me,...but it has yet to. With the repetitive lyrics of white demon seeming a bit unnecessary, the Killers seem a bit confused. Lyrics? Borderline at best. The musical backdrop for this song is another clear example of someone giving the band just a little too much freedom. The song is basically split in half with different tempos, beats and melodies. While I can get into the first half, the second half is just a turn off for me, and makes me nostalgic for the days of Mr. Brightside and Everything Will Be Alright. A long time Killers fan, I just can't seem to get into this... I'm hoping I'm wrong. "White demon, where's your selfish kiss? White demon, sorrow will arrange." I'm sorry, what?

6) Satellite Heart - Anya Marina. Yet another reason why I love her? With several prior tracks of Marina's being featured in the OC and Grey's Anatomy, her youthful whisper of a voice is haunting in this pseudo-depressing track. With each turn around a verse of chorus, Marina surprises with additions of harmonica and string sets that'll knock you to your knees. With lyrics perfectly suited that just SCREAM Bella Swan, this track is my absolute favorite thus far - were I to have to pick one. "I hear your living out of state, running in a whole new scene. You know I haven't slept in weeks, you're the only thing I see..."

7) I Belong To You - Muse. Thank you for hitting us with another dose of this amazing band! For those instantly drawn to their prior vampiric baseball track, you will not be disappointed. With an almost Queen-esque sound, this hard-hitting, guitar-driven musical journey is both erie and amazing. The musical accompanyments are so fantastically Muse. My only complaint? I hate when bands use their band name in a song, even if it fits. Knock if off. We know who you are. Regardless of that, this creeptastic rock track will have you jamming out -- or at least tapping your foot while you drive. "How much pain has cracked your soul? How much love would make you whole?"

8) Roslyn - Bon Iver & St. Vincent. Originally wasn't all that impressed, I gotta tell ya. I've been a long time fan of Vincent's for a while now, and while the song is CLEARLY more him than Bon Iver, it still didn't click with me until last night. Now I'm obsessive for it. Haunting melodies and smooth melodies will chill you to the core in this track,...but it may take more than one listen to appreciate the structure. "Wings wouldn't help you, wings wouldn't help you down..."

9) Done All Wrong - Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. This country-sounding track brings things back to a simpler time with it's oldschool sound and familiar feeling. Every now in then it will throw in a beautiful guitar lick, but stays constant and true in it's composition for the whole of the tune. "If you're doing wrong, you're bound to live quite long..." Great message. Great song.

10) Monsters - Hurricane Bells. I've actually never heard of this band until purchasing this EP, and now I can't imagine my life without this uptempo rock 'n roll number. You'll love it within the first ten seconds of the guitar intro. "Wait, okay, you gotta look before you go...Situations are critical." You'll love it...guaranteed. It's a fun little number that breaks up the heartbreaking songs that encompass the EP, and a nice little break to wake you up from those horrid daydreams.

11) The Violet Hour - Sea Wolf. An excellent track from one hell of an artist. An indie treat capable of Nick and Norah status, this easy-listening track will have you smiling and singing along almost immediately. "You love all sailors, but hate the beach. You say 'come touch me' but you're always out of reach..." Not a bad track by any means. Not necessarily a favorite of mine, but a nice light feel for the album.

12) Shooting the Moon - Ok Go. It's about time we see something from these guys! Good lord! This track is driven by heavy drums and quiet strumming, with the stereotypical pop melodies only Ok Go is capable of, ending with a nice little rock-out. An instant classic. "Don't get hung up on it, just soldier on with it, good luck with shooting the moon..."

13) Slow Life - Grizzly Bear feat. Victoria Legrand. This has got to be one of my favorites on the record, easily. This track has an almost 80's sound to it with it's quiet chorus and simple harmonies. I can't quite put my finger on it, but there's something warm and familiar about it. "Even though you're the only one I see, it's the last catastrophe. Place your bets on chance and I'll pull free." This quiet track pulls you in and doesn't stop til the last beat.

14) No Sound but the Wind - Editors. Another vaguely 80's sounding track, at least to me, this song seems to tie it all in without being too overdone or dramatic. Not sure where they're planning on putting this quiet, romantic tune in the film, but I'm sure they'll find the right spot. The track urges "help me to carry the fire..." as it sweeps over soft melodies and quiet piano.

15) New Moon (The Meadow) - Alexandre Desplat. The instrumental theme for the film, this one won me over in the first two bars. It's obviously going to be nearly impossible to trump Bella's Lullaby from the first film, but this one comes pretty close. It spirals up and down with emotion, building in intensity until it's end at just over four minutes. Amazing. Simply stunning.

Overall, I'm gonna give the release an A. (Would be an A+ without that bizarre Killer's song...but I'm still holding out hope I'll come around on that one...) Regardless of that, it seems like it will be a perfect fit for the film. And if anything, gets bonus points for the fact that everything is so moody and bizarre, it knocks it down to only a small chance I'll have to hear the hardcore tweens bumpin it in their civics. :)

J

Random Review of the Week

Happy Wednesday, faithful readers!

I recently received an excellent suggestion from my mother. It appears that I've left you all hanging with a lack of hair-related reviews over the past few weeks...and so...that being said...am bringing a little joy to your hump day...

This Wednesday's focus will be on volume - and this speedy little trick with countless benefits...

DRY SHAMPOO

That's right, I said it. Dry shampoo.

This fabulous idea picked up in popularity about 5 years ago, and has really taken off in the industry. After countless studies indicated the condition of one's hair, as well as the color and shine, disappears with daily washing, scientists started to wonder.... is there a way to clean the hair, without stripping it of it's natural goodness?

Most women will wash their hair daily - this alone wreaks havoc on your locks, whether you realize it or not. And with the majority of THOSE women follow with heat (blow dryers, curling irons, straightening devices), making things far worse.

Using a dry shampoo every other day, or even once a week, will keep that color strong (for those that dye), keep your hair manageable and shiny, and help it hold onto what little strength it has after years of being tortured.

The selection out there right now is CRAZY. There's dry shampoos based on hair type, formula (be it powder, spray, or a fast-drying liquid), what look you're trying to acquire (straight, curly, voluminous), or even tinted to match your hair color - adding an extra dose of shine and color to your 'do.

My personal favorite is Rene Furterer's Naturia Dry Shampoo.

This little bottle packs a big punch! Paraben and sulfate-free, this dry shampoo sprays a light powder over tired, dull hair bringing it back to life INSTANTLY, while keeping color fresh and shiny. The unique formula instantly absorbs into hair folicles and the scalp, leaving your hair healthy, light, and smelling fantastic! Perfect for so many uses including tossing it in your gym bag for a touch-up after your workout, keeping it at the office for emergencies, or using it the morning after a long night... you know, the ones that leave your hair smelling of alcohol and smoke? Kiss those days goodbye.

Available at Sephora, this product retails at approximately $12.00 for a 1.6 oz can, or $24 for the 3.2 oz. A small price to pay to keep those locks strong and beautiful, and have the additional bonus of having a quick fix for any situation.

For those who don't want to wait for their Sephora shipment to arrive, pay that particular cost, or go to the local store - there are cheaper alternatives available at your local drugstore; the best seller of these being PSSSSST running about $6.00 per bottle. Buyer beware: this particular powder is borderline WHITE, and will show in dark hair if not properly sprayer/combed through. If your hair is a darker shade, go for something like Salon Graffix Powder Shampoo in your desired shade - about $8.00.

Either way, you have your pick of options. Instant volume? Go with a powder spray shampoo. Need a more thorough cleaning of residue/smoke smell/etc.? Go with a quick-dry liquid like Frederic Fekkai Au Naturel. Dark hair? Pick a colored version of either.

Happy shopping, all!
If you need further details or descriptions of the alternatives listed in this review, let me know. I'm here to help!


Jessica

Skincare Spotlight - 10/20/09

Happy GORGEOUS Tuesday, everybody! Can you believe 2 days ago it was snowing, and it's gonna hit the 60's today!? What up, GLOBAL WARMING! (In all seriousness, we're all pretty much screwed,... but why not find the silver lining right?)

This week's Skincare Spotlight goes out to a fantastic little product I've used faithfully now since the day it dropped in 2003...

NARS - The Multiple

This three-in-one product is an ESSENTIAL MUST-HAVE for your purse or travel bag. This compact little savior is perfect for touch-ups, or when things just aren't going your way in the morning and you need to make up a little time.

The Multiple can be used on eyes, cheeks, lips and décolletage, and truly pulls together a fresh, dewy look without looking overdone or too matchy-matchy. My personal favorite aspect of the item is that it manages to shimmer and glow WITHOUT looking sparkly, childish, or trampy... how fantastic is THAT?!

This wonder-product comes in over 15 different shimmery shades from pinks, to peaches, to mauves, to pearls, to creams, to bronzes - they've got 'em all. Why bring 3-5 different items with you when you could have them all conveniently in one creaseless, budge-proof stick? I mean, come ON!

Below are a quick sampling of some of the colors you can choose from:

(And you better appreciate that little sampler - it took me about an hour to put them into paint from seperate files online and label and arrange, damnit! lol The things I do for my public!)

This item is available throught the NARS website, as well as Sephora for a set price of $37.00 - but when you think about the fact that this item will virtually replace your bronzer/blush/eyeshadow/highlighter/etc., it's really a steal! ALSO - as a special treat - Sephora is releasing a SET of these little miracle sticks... for only $40.00 (that's right, $3.00 measly dollars more than the price of one!) you will receive THREE smaller Multiple's in the top three best-selling colors: Orgasm, South Beach, and Copacabana (all of which listed above in my kickass diagram...you're welcome).

This set is a KILLER, giving you the ability to mix and match if you feel so inclined - maybe you want a tanner look on your face, so you swipe a little South Beach on... but a light colored shadow - hit your Copacabana, and finish it all off with a sweet swipe of Orgasm on the lips and you're done! There's a thousand and one different possibilities using this deal-of-a-lifetime kit...don't miss out on this limited time offer - they're sure to sell out like LIGHTNING!

Well, that wraps up another Skincare Spotlight. Questions? Comments? Notes of undying allegiance to the blog? You know where to put 'em. Just click that lovely little comment box below and show some love.

Thanks, guys!

J

Some great tips to save money and look fantastical!

So I recently discovered a few of these little tricks, and compiled a list for you guys.

With the economy so f'd lately, I figured a few corner-cutting beauty tricks would be just what the doctor ordered....

1) Baking Soda. Now we all know this little wonder has multiple uses from fridge deodorizing, to cat litter additions,... get ready to add a few more to that list!

* As a clarifying shampoo: Mix 2 teaspoons with 1 cup water and use it in your final rinse. Degunking for free! This little treatment is sure to remove any traces of leftover product or built up shampoo/conditioner adding life and bounce to dull, weighty hair.

* As a facial cleanser: Mix 1/2 teaspoon with your favorite cleanser and voila - your old product just became a brand new exfoliator!

* As a foot powder: Sprinkle a dash in your gym shoes or heels and say goodbye to wetness and odor with this trusted fix.

* As a teeth whitener: Dust a bit of this powder on a wet toothbrush and brush as normal. Well assuming you've already used (or plan to use) toothpaste in the equation.

2) The popular spa treatment hydrotherapy usually retails at about $95.00. Want one for free? In the last few minutes of your shower, drop the temperature to cold for about 15 seconds. Head back to your usual temp, and repeat for approximately 2 minutes. This little trick is guaranteed to revitalize your skin and stimulate blood flow for a nice healthy (and cheap) glow.

3) Acne woes got you down with no hope of affording your the brands that would bring relief? Got any fresh fruit?! Mash 1/4 cup strawberries and 1/4 cup sour cream or yogurt, and paste this lovely mixture on clean, dry skin. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, and rinse well. (Strawberries are a natural source of salicylic acid - the miracle drug in all those acne products!)

4) A few fun uses for honey:

* As a conditioner: Massage 1 tablespoon of pure honey into damp hair after shampooing. Rinse with warm water. Honey, the lovely little humectant that it is, will lock in moisture and seal in shine.

* As a bubble bath: Mix 1 cup water, 1/2 cup honey, and 1/2 cup liquid soap. Pour it under your faucet and dive in!

* As a facial mask: Honey is KNOWN for it's healing properties, especially on acne-prone, damaged or distressed skin. Spread it on and let it sit for about 15 minutes, and rinse with warm water. The antioxidents and antibacterials will break down those awful little breakouts and leave you feeling soft...just try not to do this around any bees...or bears for that matter.

5) You know your mother's standby of sliced cucumbers on the eyes for revitilization? Try a new take clinically proven to work even BETTER --- but a little strange --- sliced POTATOES! Proven to reduce puffiness and give those sparkly little devils the attention they deserve!

6) Dry skin? Check the fridge. Mash 1/2 ripe banana or avocado and spread onto the skin. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, and rinse with warm water. Moisture a la mode!

7) Back to the dreaded acne. Now that you've cleansed it away with your fruit mixture from number three, it's time to TONE! Splash cool green tea on your face for a refreshing toner at a quarter of the price.

8) Ok,...this is gonna sound a little strange, but for the brave - give it a go - it's amazing! Swollen, overworked feet are gonna get a treat with this one: Use up those leftover mashed potatoes (dehydrated or otherwise) and add lukewarm (or hot) water for a slightly strange, but overwhelmingly beneficial foot soak. (Potatoes can be subbed for oatmeal as well - known to restore dry, cracked, painful skin especially in your feetsies!)

9) Dry, yellow nails? Say no more with just a squeeze of a lemon! Mix 1 teaspoon lemon juice with 2 tablespoons water and soak for about 15 minutes! Don't forget a few dabs of moisturizer or lotion as lemon is super drying!

10) You know that favorite little body scrub of yours? Most likely from your local Bath and Body or Sephora knowing my audience... Well what happens if you run and simply don't have the time, energy or the money to head to said store? Boy, do I have the subsitute for you! Mix 1/2 cup raw sugar with 1/4 cup light oil and scrub away! Add a dash of your favorite perfume if you're feeling daring, but keep in mind, if you happen to cut or scratch that skin of yours, the additional perfume will sting like a hornet!

And there ya have it - 10 little tricks for beauty, on a budget!

Thursday Tunes of the Week 10/15/09 -- Top Ten Chillers

Good Morning, Faithful Readers!!!

(By the by, can it GET any colder? Jeesh.)

Well it's Thursday (and you know what that means) - time for another shuffle through Money's music knowlege.

This week's tunes for Thursday will be a top-ten list format (somewhere, Kim is psyched!) of my top-ten songs to chill to. Taking a bubble bath? Need a good cry? Throw these emotional little diddies on, and thank me in the form of a Twisted Tea six pack.

10) Following - Chungking. This fantastic little groove comes straight from one of my favorite discs -- a surprisingly eclectic jumble of awesome -- the Nip/Tuck soundtrack. With a relaxing beat, sweeping melodies, and the angelic voice of frontwoman Jessie Banks, it's sure to be perfect for that necessary, candlelit alone time every girl needs. "What we had, of course it makes me sad, that is why I say to myself - I won't be following, you were just borrowing me..." Fantastically honest and meloncholy, I promise you won't be disappointed.

9) Cup of Coffee - Garbage. This haunting tribute to the devastating effects of a breakup will chill you to the core. Shirley Manson takes you through her journey of obsession, betrayal, and heartbreak with one of the few ballads in their catalog. With lyrics everyone can identify with (or at least enjoy), it's a good one for the wounded. "I'm walking empty streets hoping we might meet - I see your car parked on the road. The light on at your window, I know for sure that you're home, but I just have to pass on by..." Props to Ms. Manson for putting into words the depressive, psycho in all of us.

8) In the Air Tonight - Holly McNarland. By far, THE BEST remake of all time (and you know how Money loves her covers!). This seductive spin on the Phil Collins classic will be an instant favorite. While it has the same lyrics and basic melodies, the song itself transforms into a complete different entity. This is a HARD-TO-FIND item, so if you're interested and are having no luck tracking it down, see me. It's THAT fantastic.

7) Almost Lover - A Fine Frenzy. An instant tug at those heartstrings of yours, this track had a fairly good run on radio airwaves. Another tale of devastation and heartbreak, Frenzy manages to put into words those things you never could, and bring a tear to your eye in the bridge ALONE. "So now you're gone, and I'm haunted - but I bet you are just fine. Did I make it that easy to walk right in and out of my life?" Ouch.

6) Any Day Now - Missy Higgins. A much missed track of this Aussie's debut album, this little diddy is both emotional and strangely optimistic. Higgins trademark accent and original sound sweep over the quiet piano bringing you lyrical treats like this - "How long will we take to come undone? If you know the answer, tell me now, and I'll write up the calendar for our countdown..."

5) Quiet - Rachael Yamagata. Oh my sweet, sweet Rachael - how I adore thee! The woman that has YET to disappoint with a single track sings delicate melodies and honest lyrics in this homage to 'the end'. "It'll be just as quiet when I leave as it was when I first got here. I don't expect anything." Trust me. One chorus of this and you'll just wanna hug her.

4) Spanish Doll - Poe. Poe will astound you on this track off her outstanding sophomore release "Haunted". This was difficult. Putting Poe on this list, made me want to do a review of that album alone. The EP is perfect in it's entirety, with not a bad track in the bunch. But this one works for the playlist - and has warranted a spot on the countdown with it's oldschool spanish guitar tabs, and haunting (get the pun?) melodies. Throw in some outright perfect lyrics, and you have the perfect break-up song. "This place feels so unfamiliar, and yet I know it well. I think I used to belong here, but the only way I can tell...is that I miss you still, and I cannot find you here..." I WISH I had enough space to jot down the lyrics to the whole song...you'll just have to see where she goes from there. You will NOT regret it.

3) Mr. Levon - Shawn Colvin. The underground Sunny Came Home starlet hits you hard with this track of a less-than-critically-acclaimed album. A track that literally transforms to fit any situation you wish, Levon brings the proper preportions of melody, emotion, and musical backdrop. With the sweeping overatures of "Hold me tight and don't let go...", it'll bring a familiar warmth and sophistication to your crappy IPod mix.

2) Gold Dust - Tori Amos. I'm not exactly sure WHAT this song does to me, but no matter how many times I play the track, there are certain landmarks in the song that either bring goosebumps or initiate the flow of tears - even on my happiest day! A classic tale of looking back over the years, or time spent in a previous relationship/situation, Tori whispers a quiet tune over sweeping symphonies. Buyer/downloader be advised: to fully enjoy this track, one must not simply use it as background music. It is best experienced alone, in quiet contemplation, and would be best appreciated if given your full attention. "How did it go so fast, we'll say as we are looking back. And then we'll understand we held gold dust in our hands..."

and the number one chiller goes tooooooooo.................

1) School Night - Ani DiFranco. (Are you surprised?) A fantastic songwriter and amazing performer, Ani showcases her skills in hyperboles and metaphors to create this absolute perfection. The comparison of choosing one love over another with buring homes and other fantastic analogies, this track has it all - over-the-top-amazing lyrical work, oustanding musical composition, and the overwhelming ability to make you WEEP. "You'll never know dear, just how much I loved you. You probably think this was just my big excuse. But I stand committed to a love that came before you, and the fact that I adore you is just one of my truths..." There are many other lyrical acheivements, but far too many to list -- you're reallllllly gonna have to work for this one.

Well that concludes another top-ten session. Head off to your nearest ITunes or Limewire and get them immediately - would I steer you wrong?

Money

Answer Regarding: Make My Hair Curl, DAMNIT!

Kimberly said...
Sooo, I have a dilemma (though you kind of already covered it for wavy hair..) My hair is pin-straight.. as in you curl it with a curling iron and 1 minute later, it looks like I ran a straightener through my hair. Any suggestions for when I feel like having a wavy or even curly hair day?

Jessica Leigh said...

Kim -

There a various options that all depend on your circumstance.

A) If you have 24 hours notice...

*Sleep with rollers in. Use a nice sponge roller like Conair's Sponge Soft.

These rollers are easy to use, and don't cause tangles or weirdnesses when you wake up. Use a light mousse or curling gel before putting them in damp hair. These little devils are comfortable to sleep in, and come in at a reasonable price of $3.99 at either Walmart or the Conair website.

B) With 10 hours or less notice...

Use a heavier mousse or gel - preferably Graham Webb's Making Waves or Paul Mitchell's Sculpting Foam in damp hair. When hair is approximately 50%-75% dry, wrap sections of hair around your finger and bobby pin against the scalp. This will need to either be slept on, or left to sit for at least two hours, so make sure you have the proper amount of time to accomplish this. If not, continue on.

C) With 2 hours or less notice...

This is gonna cost ya...both in effort and price. For most pin-straight hair (and believe me I know!) you will need a great product and a fantastic iron. Go with either of the products mentioned above, or at the very least a heavy-hold mousse from your local CVS (try Tresemme's Curl Care Bouncy Curls Defining Gel - Extra Hold). Once the hair is dry, pile hair on the top of your head and take no more than 1/4" sections to a CERAMIC, high-heat curling iron (my favorite being the Conair Infiniti Tourmaline -> gets up to over 395 degrees!) After EACH section is curled, spray with a hair spray of your choice - of at least AVERAGE hold. If you're looking for flexibility in this equation - try Finesse and go for the aerosol NOT THE PUMP! One last thing to consider - while the appeal of large, bouncy curl is obvious, the tighter you curl (smaller curling irons, less than 1"), the longer it will hold. Keep in mind, you hair is bound to fall a bit regardless of what you do - it's in the genes - better to look like Shirley Temple for an hour before going out with fabulous hair, than to lose that beautiful look when you walk into the bar.

I hope this helps!
Jessica

On second thought --

As I have yet to receive the usual bombardment of questions, I'm going to beat you to the punch, and quickly review another item this week....and wouldn't you know it, another PLUMPER?! (Going against my better judgement here...)

Now for those of you who missed Tuesday's blog about the now infamous Huge Lips, Skinny Hips dual-action lip plumper, stop right now and click here to read up on it. (My mom seems pretty intrigued and she's not nearly as crazy as the rest of you...so get on it.)

In the meantime, for those dedicated few who are waiting on baited breath for another post, I will leave you with a hot new item sure to be an instant classic...or at least good for memorabilia?

For those of you out there who are familiar with the product Lip Venom, I applaud you - you've obviously done your homework. This is a well-respected, best-selling line of PAINFUL but EFFECTIVE plumpers in varying colors and degrees of masochism from the crazy-popular DuWop line (available at Sephora).

Well guess what, kids,...Christmas came early...



Introducing...

DuWop Twilight Lip Venom

Just in time to coordinate perfectly with the upcoming release of the monster-smash Twilight's newest installment (no accident there, I'm sure) DuWop has released this little treat.

To wear this devilish little plumper properly, you are instructed to shake the bottle vigorously prior to use (according to the makers, to 'represent the blending of the human and vampire worlds - ha! nice touch, DuWop, cha-ching!), and can be applied in layers until achieving the desired color and and intensity. This ultra-conditioning (semi-painful) formula includes doses of argan, avocado, vitamin E and olive oils to keep those sparkly lips moisturized.

For those concerned about the uber-redness of this tone, there's no need to fret - the color swatch is listed below and is actually quite wonderful...

The only negative reviews I've seen for this spicy-cinnamon, crimson gloss is the following: if not properly shaken, flakes of the infamous blood-red dye will remain just that - obvious flakes of color. Every other review speaks volumes for this products ability to plump, quality of taste, and overall likability.

Strictly out of my need to try it (and my slightly-abnormal Meyer addiction), this will need to happen... immediately.

Product is available for purchase at the DuWop site, as well as Bath and Body Works (online online) and, as always, in stores/online at Sephora.

Happy hunting!

Holy Tuesday, ALREADY!?!

Wow, so the long weekend went by FARRRR too fast, but it's already time for another Skincare Spotlight.

This week's must-have?

HUGE LIPS, SKINNY HIPS

I know....right? Wait 'til you get a load of THIS! (And feel free to mention my blog around the water cooler as you're telling your friends...cause after all, you DID hear it here FIRST, right?! wink, wink)

"Did you know that it has been reported that women ingest up to 9 pounds of lipstick in a lifetime? – so why not ingest something like this?" - Karen Robinovitz, creator.

Check out the latest from the world of plumpers - a gloss guaranteed to do TWO things:
1) Plump those babies up something Angelina-fierce.
2) CURB YOUR APPETITE!

What? I know!! WRAP YOUR MIND AROUND THAT FOR A SECOND! I'll wait...

Still with me? Let's continue...

This brand new must-have dropped late last week to a CRAZINESS of reviews, practically selling out online in the first DAY! With such an increased interest, the production lines have been quadrupled just to make this miracle product available to ALL!

Let's get down to the physics of it:

The Plumping
This paraben-free lipgloss (and you KNOW how I feel about paraben-free makeup!!) comes complete with meadow foam to attract moisture to the lips, lemon peel oil to soothe, and vitamin B3 to stimulate blood flow (plumping) without ANY of the stinging agents you're used to.

The Slimming
The secret to this lovely little number is 10% Hoodia extract (commonly found in the safer of the diet pills, and other vitamin/mineral supplements). It's a natural, non-caffeinated extract guaranteed to surpress hunger and actually MIMICKS the effects of glucose on the brain, making you believe you've just eaten! Andrea Lavinthal of Cosmopolitan says, "...while the stuff isn’t going to stop you from eating, it can help prevent you from downing a plate of nachos at happy hour..." Fantastic, right?

The all-new collection includes six delectable, non-sticky, super-shiny glosses ranging from clear to red, and is put out by fashion icon Karen Robinovitz. FDA-tested, Money approved.

Right now the best way to purchase this must-have is through Bliss Spa and PurpleLabNYC websites, and goes for the AMAZING price of only $20.00 (less than most of us have paid for those painful little plumpers).

Get it while it lasts, ladies.


(You know what, sometimes I even amaze MYSELF!)

Ya know what?! I'm doin' it. Screw it.

So after finding this information, and sitting on it for weeks, I realized I may need to publish my discoveries - at least to help others learn from my mistakes.

MEN SUCK.

Well most of them, anyway. And here's a helpful little post as to the inner-workings of these pondscum.


Let's tackle the first subject: Pathological Lying

Taken from the Osric University of Applied Psychology:

"What is a pathological liar?

A deliberate liar knows he is lying. A pathological liar may not.

Although there is no precise definition, certainly none defined by the woefully inadequate but oft-cited DSM-IV, we can state with certainty that it is a person who tells lies incessantly. We can eliminate those who tell lies in order to avoid extreme persecution. But those who consistently tell lies, whether faced with punishment or not, may be considered pathological. We must keep in mind that "pathological" simply means abnormal, or grossly atypical...who among us has not told a lie? At what point does such behavior become "pathological"?

In addition to the difficultly of distinguishing between the liar and the pathological liar, we must also isolate this mental disturbance. Lying is a characteristic of several other disorders as well, such as conduct disorder (CD) and antisocial personality disorder (APD). CD, like many reports of pathological lying, typically has its onset during adolescence. Other behaviors may include inappropriate aggression, destruction, and serious violations of rules and laws. And, as suggested by some doctors, both pathological lying and CD may be caused by, shall we say, challenging situations in the home. Or by a lack of seratonin, in which case Prozac or Zoloft may help. Along with, of course, expensive sessions of psychotherapy."

Sound like anyone you may have bumped into or lived with? :)

Next subject -- the controlling, manipulative asswipe.

Here are the top 10 signs of said boyfriend:

10. Always By Your Side: If you are in a relationship where it seems that you have no time to yourself, chances are you have a controlling boyfriend. He never wants you to go anywhere without him. There is no more “girls night out” for you and your friends, unless he is with you. Doesn’t sound like a good time.
9. Do What He Likes: When you do go out, it is to an event that HE chooses. You may not feel like going to a movie, but it is what he wants to do, for example. Also, his turning down an offer to do what you would like is a key sign that he is not flexible. It often leaves the impression that he does not care about your interests. He may, or may not, but he is not supportive either way.
8. Do Things For Him: “Honey, go pick up some soda for me.” sounds like a genuine request for assistance. If your boyfriend is constantly asking you to run errands, without including you as the benefactor, this is another sign of the need to feel in control. Instead of “…pick up some soda for me.”, the request should be, “We’re out of soda. Can you go pick some up, please?”. Can you see the difference? WE are in need of soda, simply.
7. No Manners: In the previous example, the “please” was left out intentionally. Your boyfriend will not be polite. He will not say “thank you”, “you’re welcome”, “please” or even “excuse me” to you. It is because he is expecting you to comply with his requests. He also feels as if you should be thanking him for allowing you to do things for him.
6. Questions, Questions: When you can finally break through the chains, and find some free time for yourself, be prepared: your controlling boyfriend will interrogate you when you return. Putting himself in a “father figure” position will install more of a sense of control. Treating you like a child that went to the mall, prior to doing her homework, is the kind of humiliation in you he is trying to achieve.
5. No Questions, No Answers: Unlike the aforementioned subject, your boyfriend will come and go as he pleases, without answering to anyone – especially to you. If you try to question his whereabouts or activities, he will become defensive. The subject will immediately transfer from your asking, “where were you?” to his comeback remark about how you nag him too much, or something similar to that effect. He will ignore answering the question, and make you feel guilty for asking it. This is in hope that you will not do it again.
4. He’s Always Right: In an argument with a controlling personality, it is very difficult for him to accept defeat. The controlling boyfriend will get more defensive, change the subject, or bring up a past occurrence, when he was, indeed, correct, in order to prove his point with the issue at hand. He may not always be right, completely, but he is never wrong.
3. Can’t Buy Me Love: Fools gold has been around for centuries. However, a fool AND his gold have special meaning to the controlling boyfriend. He will buy you nice jewelry, take you to expensive restaurants and maybe even offer to pay a debt of yours. He will say it is because he loves you. Not true. He needs to feel superior to you. You now owe him, in his mind. Who is the fool? To him, you are.
2. You’re Worthless: Belittling your self-confidence can be have very serious consequences. Making you feel as if you are worthless without him, the controlling boyfriend will prey on times that you may be stressed the most. If you have just lost a job, or if you are experiencing normal hormonal reactions, this is the time he will strike. He wants you to feel as if life is not worth living without him. It’s hard to believe, but his confidence level is actually lower than yours.
1. No Means No: This is the most upsetting trait that a controlling boyfriend can display. If he forces you to do things, against your will, he is not in love with you. Whether it is going to a baseball game, when you hate outdoor stadiums, or, even more harsh an act, makes you perform sexually against your will, he is NOT in love with you. Not showing you the courtesy to respect your wishes is not a behavior that goes away. This will continue as an abusive relationship, where you will be treated as an object, instead of a person.

WEIRD...

Now let's tackle the final subject: Cheating pieces of shit. :)

After going through psychologist Gary Neuman's "Reasons Why Men Cheat", it still hasn't managed to clear things up. What it did do, however, is paint a clear picture. Again... does this ring any bells?

40% of cheating men met the other woman at work.

"Oftentimes the woman he cheats with at the office is someone who praises him, looks up to him, and compliments his efforts," Neuman says. "That's another reason why it's so critical that he feel valued at home." Luckily, there's a clear warning sign that your boyfriend is getting a little too cozy with a colleague: If he praises or mentions the name of a female coworker more than he would a male counterpart, your antennae should go up -- and it's time for the two of you to set boundaries about what is and isn't okay at work, Neuman says.

77% of cheating men have a good friend who cheated

Hanging around friends who stray makes cheating seem normal and legitimizes it as a possibility. The message he's subconsciously telling himself: "My friend is a good guy who happens to be cheating on his girlfriend. I guess even the best of us do it."

Only 6% of cheating men had physical intimacy with a woman after meeting her that same day or night.

(THIS ONE'S MY FAVORITE!!)

"Actually, 73 percent of men got to know the other woman for more than a month before they cheated. This means that you may have time to see the warning signs before infidelity occurs -- you might even see it coming before he does. Keep an eye out for these common signals: He spends more time away from home, stops asking for physical intimacy, picks fights more frequently, or becomes more secluded when taking phone calls/emails/etc..."

Hmmmm..... weirdly familiar.

Either way. I found this both informative, and hysterically accurate. Your thoughts, ladies?

Thursday Tunes for 10/8/2009

Good Morning, Faithful Readers!!!

Well it's Thursday - and you know what that means - tune approval time.

Back by popular demand is the top-ten format,... with a bit of a twist.

This week, I'll be dishing on my all-time TOP-TEN songs by...

BRAND NEW

Now for those of you unaware of this band.... hmm... well I guess there's really nothing more I can do for you. They've been around since 2000. If it's been 10 years and you've managed to not even hear OF the band, we can no longer be friends. Chances are, we weren't to begin with, so it all comes out in the wash.

For those of you who'd like to see what made it to the top ten, or have only heard a select few from this revolutionary quintet and would like to find more suggestions to illegally download, here ya go:

10) Me Vs. Maradona Vs. Elvis - off Deja Entendu (2003) - First off, just go BUY Deja Entendu. Other than the fact that downloading is stealing (haha), it'd save you the time, and it's an all-around outstanding musical acheivment. There's literally NO WAY you could POSSIBLY be disappointed. But back to this song in particular - this laid back homage to the REALITY of the late-night hook up will shake you to the core. With the stereotypical quiet beginning the Brand New fans have become quite familiar with, the song builds in intensity and outright viciousness. "I will lie awake, lie for for fun and fake the way I hold you. Then you'll fall for every empty word I say." Hey - at least he put it on the table to begin with. Some guys won't even give ya that much!

9) Okay I Believe You, But My Tommy Gun Don't - off Deja Entendu (2003) - FANTASTIC lyrical work on this track set to a seemingly innocent, quiet beat... until approxmiatley 2 minutes into the piece when the characteristic craziness kicks in. Need something to jam out to after a long day? You're welcome. "I hope you come down with something they can't diagnose, don't have the cure for..." Love it! But I'm also a vicious bitch.

8) The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows - off Deja Entendu (2003) - A definite pump-you-up single from their second album (that you should've purchased at this point,...). Brand New takes over with their hard chord changes and quick lyrics including my personal favorite "I lie for only you, and I lie well..." An uptempo classic.

7) Failure By Design - off Your Favorite Weapon (2001) - Whoaaaa - oldschool, I know! The first album Your Favorite Weapon was DEFINITELY one of my favorites, but left a much different taste in your mouth. Most fans either LOVE or HATE the first album - and usually feel the opposite about the following albums as they're so verrrrry different. This little diddy has a very "self-fulfilling prophecy" feel as it slams through lyrics like "I'm sick and sunk, and I blame myself because I make things hard and you're just trying to help." Definitely the closest to the other albums in terms of sound, but also showcases the young naivity of a band on the rise.

6) Jaws Theme Swimming - off Deja Entendu (2003) - I seriously heart this song like mucho. There's just something about the beat and melody that literally seem to sync up with your heartbeat...or at least that's my perception. Brand New showcases their storytelling techniques in this laid-back number that's sure to affect you in one way or another. "Some rules are made with all intentions to break, and she defends it with a warped rationale..." If you don't have it, get it now. Like stop reading, open your limewire or whatever the kids use these days, and get it. But then come back for the top five. Don't worry... I'll wait.

(you all set? let's continue...)

5) Limousine (MS Rebridge) - off The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me (2006) - One of their slower songs with unique melodic bridges. The beginning of the song sets you up for the sweeping repetition of the rebridge that's made this song such a hit...as the track builds, you fall into this back and forth rhythm, similar to waves on a shore, hitting you with line after line of "Well, I love you so much - but do me a favor, baby, don't reply. 'Cause I can dish it out, but I can't take it..." Any true fan knows this is one of the only saving tracks of their 2006 release, and well worth the purchase price.

4) Jesus - off The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me (2006) - the OTHER song that saves the EP. This song is so amazing you find an array of people with it on their IPods... from the "emo" punk kids, to alternative junkies, to pop-loving tweens, to strippers (you're welcome, girls). Amazing melody and harmonics? Check. Fabulous lyrics? Check. Fantastic beat? Definitely. There is literally NO ONE out there that could NOT fall in love with it immediately. While I find some of their other tracks take a bit to wear you down and become a favorite, this intensely heavy conversation with the messiah is sure to rock your socks off. "Well Jesus Christ, I'm alone again, so what did you do those three days you were dead? 'Cause this problem's gonna last more than the weekend." It's so hard to pick a lyric or part in the song as your favorite, the whole damn thing is THAT good.

3) Daisy - off the Daisy EP (2009) - The title track off their latest EP that dropped this past September, this is EASILY becoming one of my favorites. With a hauntingly beautiful and simultaneously creepy intermission that only Brand New can deliver, the song's beginning immediately pulls you in and keeps you held hostage til the slamming guitar chords at the end. I haven't quite figured out why I'm so obsessed with it, but I will say I played in on repeat my entire way to work. Give it a shot - see if it's your cup of tea. If anything, give it a listen to hear the creepy child in the middle of the song - and try to figure out what's being said... 2 points for those who comment first with the correct answer and DIDN'T Google it..."I'm a mouth that doesn't smileI'm a word that no one ever wants to say..."

2) At the Bottom - off the Daisy EP (2009) - The first single released off the newest album took me a bit to figure out. When I first came across this track, I wasn't all too sure it was for me. Don't get me wrong, Brand New could never "go wrong", but this particular track didn't speak to me that others had...until one day, after about the 6th or 7th listen, it hit me, as it will the rest of you. With swift melodic changes and the typical "scream-sing" chorus, this uptempo, guitar-driven single will definitely get your blood pumping. If anything, give it a listen for the creative upsteam guitar hooks leading you to the final chorus. You won't be disappointed. "Cause I make little lies and then I pull them apart; think something dark's living down in my heart..."

1) Sic Transit Gloria (Glory Fades) - off Deja Entendu (2003) - It had to be done. When I pondered and pondered the order in which this list would go, I couldn't see a way in which this track would NOT end up at #1. Unfortunately for the dedicated fans out there, this track had a mainsteam sound that caught up with the rest of the nation and produced the quasi-Brand New-fan nation. Regardless of it's popularity and radio play, the song itself is fantastic. The beat, melody, and lyrics come together to form an intensely sexual, yet honest, track sure to become a favorite if you haven't discovered it yet. Again - if nothing else - use it as a background for your next sex-capade. I don't have the space (or ability) to pick my favorite line from the track -- so figure it out for yourself. =)

Well... that wraps up the countdown,...

Ugh. I guess I should do work now, eh?

Lata gatas!
J

Answer Regarding: Comfortable but SEXY shoes!

Kimberly said...
Okay, this is lame-o but, whatev. So, I love to keep my feet in gorgeous looking shoes, but - as we all know - gorgeous shoes DON'T ever mean comfortable. Any suggestions? :)

Jessica Leigh said...
Kim -

Great question, and not lame in the least. Many women (myself included) have struggled with the choice of fashion over comfort - but no more, my friend.

I've found God...in a website. Repeat after me:

SHOEFEST.COM - what's that Jessica, I didn't catch that -- SHOEFEST.COM

Amazzzzzzzzzing. The shoes listed on Shoefest are all Italian, and mostly stilettos, but DEFINITELY fashionable and here's the kicker: COMFORTABLE. I know from experience. I've purchased many a pair from this designer line of REASONABLY PRICED, COMFORTABLE heels, and have yet to be disappointed. There's a vast selection on the website spanning from searchable brands (including Betsy Johnson, Calvin Klein, Coach, Madden, etc.), and also searchable types (heels sorted by height and type, flats, etc). There's even a specific section for the most comfortable little babies the site has to offer. Check out their little blurb about the Italian's in particular:

"When you are thinking of being on your feet all day long in high heels, you want to make sure you can get the most comfortable shoes you can get your hands on. Certainly, most people are well aware of Italian high heel shoes for its comfort and durability.... "

This is a site designed for women, BY WOMEN, with a complete selection and explanation of what you're getting in that particular pair. Granted there will still be a few on there that may not be the MOST comfortable you've ever put on (will be labeled as such), but the majority are high-quality, comfortable heels, wedges, and flats.

I know. Shocking, right? Who knew you could get a reasonably priced pair of heels and not limp/bleed into them all day long!!!

The site has an amazing return policy, and even MORE amazing prices - so don't be shy - get a few! Prices range from $19.98-$89.98 (and that's the COACH price!), with the general product line averaging about $30-$50.

Enjoy!

<3,
J