What 2015 Taught Me: A Year in Review

1.) Not all things broken are meant to be fixed...

FAMILY:

I have a very complicated relationship with some of my immediate family members. Over the years I have tried and tried to develop some sort of a relationship with them but to no avail. And as important as family is it is important to realize when enough is enough. No matter how much effort I make on my side, these particular family members didn't bother even trying and in any relationship it takes two to tango. And although I did spend a lot of time trying to cultivate these relationships with very little successful outcomes, I don't regret it. I rather I tried than just stand back. No family is perfect and it's important to spend time with those who love you just the way you are. 

RELATIONSHIPS:

This is a very hard topic for me to talk about. This year I got roped backed into a situation that I probably should've avoided all together. There has been this guy in my life for that I have held a torch for. Even today I still don't know why. This particular year I not only let him back in my life but my heart as well. There are no words to describe the pain that I went through going back and forth thinking that there was some hope out there for us. A part of me should have known better since he has hurt me before many times but at the same time I felt like I finally got closure to our situation. My heart is still broken but I am mending day by day. It has made me realize what I need to look for in a partner and also to take the toxic guys out of my life. As much as we hold on to our old loves, we need to ask ourselves is it really worth it? We all go through broken hearts in our lives but we have to make sure that those broken hearts were worth it. 

When things are broken in life, there is probably a good reason why it is. It is good to try and fix it and sometimes things can get fixed but if it doesn't don't stress out about it. Life is so short and precious that wasting even a second of it over something you don't have control over is just not worth it. 

2.) I despise driving...

So apparently this year I learned that I actually hate driving. I honestly don't know why I was so excited when I was 16 getting my license. I don't know if it is where I live or just the amount of asshole drivers there are out there but driving these days is more of a chore rather than an enjoyment. I need to make more money and hire myself a chauffeur.

3.) Don't ever let ANYONE talk down to you...

I had a professor earlier this year who was also my advisor that told me because I wasn't doing well in his class, I probably shouldn't be in the program all together. And even though I was doing well in my other classes it didn't matter to him. When he said this to me I literally bawled my eyes out for like 3 hours and was close to dropping out of the program. But with the support of my friends I got back up and retook the class. Not only I got an A in the class I ended up raising my entire GPA. It was honestly one of the best feelings I have ever experienced. Never let anyone talk down to you and tell you you can't do it even if it is an authority figure. As long as you give it your all you are capable of ANYTHING life throws at you.

4.) I enjoy eating vegetarian and vegan dishes

Ever since I was young I have been the biggest carnivore. I had to have meat with every single meal every day of the year. This year however on the road to getting back in shape, I decided to venture out my tastebuds and try some vegetarian and vegan options. And to my surprise I actually enjoyed them much more than I thought. Although I haven't completely cross over to the herbivore side I do try to incorporate more vegetarian and vegan meals into my diet. Being Asian has helped since we eat a lot of tofu.

5.)  Loving yourself first

The most important thing this year taught me is that no matter what situation bad or good always love yourself first. If you can't love yourself you can't love or help others around you. No matter what comes your way always charge and face it head on. Happy New Year guys! Thank so much for all the support these last couple of years. <3 xoxo

"Keep smiling, because life is a beautiful thing and there's so much to smile about"

-Marylin Monroe 

JINGLE JINGLE- Quick & Easy Cran-Orange Apple Sauce

A quick and yummy favorite of my mine during the holidays. This stuff tastes so much better than the can stuff and is so simple to make.

What You Will Need:

-1 Large Naval or Honeybell Orange (The sweeter the better)

-1 LB of Fresh Cranberries

-1 Granny Smith Apple (This apple holds up really well when cooked, if you want something a bit sweeter try a pink lady apple.)

-Water (Enough to cover the fruit)

- One to one and a half cups of fine white sugar

How To Make:

1. Wash all your fruits

2. Grate your orange for orange zest (Make sure you don't get any of the white part.) and the juice the orange. Keep the peels

3. Peel and cut your apple into tiny cubes

4. In a small sauce pot pour in your cranberries and just enough water to cover them

5. Add your apples and orange juice and throw in the orange peels for extra flavor

6. Add sugar (Just eyeball it but usually around a cup and of course depends on your sweetness preference

7. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for about an hour or so until the cranberries pop and it begins to form a sauce like consistency. 

8. Pour into a pretty bowl and serve! 

What's HOT HOT HOT Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush Palette BLOGTOBER OCTOBER 21,2014

What's HOT HOT HOT- Quick reviews to make your shopping fast and easy!

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush Palette
From left to right
Luminous Flush- Champagne Rose
Incandescent Electra- Cool toned peachy coral
Mood Exposure- Soft plum

PACKAGING:

-Comes in a plastic gold case (Looks fancier than it is)

-Palette contains 3 miniature versions of Hourglass's Ambient Lighting Blush (0.11 oz each)

FORMULATION:

These blushes have the same texture as the original Ambient Lighting Powders. They are very finely milled making it super soft and blendable. The Ambient Lighting Blushes combines the best of a blush and highlighter in one. These blushes are nicely pigmented yet give a settle color along with a beautiful glow on the cheeks. They are not shimmer or glittery. I like using my MUA BB/CC cream brush to apply. I notice that if you use a duo fiber brush it tends to take off the actual color and if the brush is too dense you can end up looking like a disco ball.

You can purchase this palette for a limited time @ Sephora stores as well as Hourglass's online site

The palette is a bit on the expensive side retailing at $58, however given the price of a single blush which retails for $35 you are getting yourself a good bargain.

This palette makes great for travel and not to mention a great gift for makeup lovers this holiday season! 

JINGLE JINGLE: Chocolate Hazelnut Puppy Chow Recipe

Great for gifts and snacks for the big holiday dinner!

What You Will Need: (MAKE AS MUCH OR LITTLE AS YOU WANT)

1 Box of Rice Chex

Powdered Sugar

Nutella or Justin's Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

1 Large Ziploc Bag

How To Make:

1.) Melt your chocolate chips along with your chocolate hazelnut spread in 30 second intervals until melted and smooth stir in between

2.) In a large bowl pour your desired amount of Chex mix and add the chocolate mixture. Make sure every cereal is coated

3.) In a large Ziploc bag pour powder sugar and add the Chex a little at a time. Make sure the chocolate covered cereal is all coated with the powder sugar.

To jazz it up you can add some M&Ms, pretzels, and peanuts into it

To make this into a gift take a large glass mason jar and layer your puppy chow with red and green M&Ms. Tie a red/green ribbon around the jar and VIOLA!!!  

JINGLE JINGLE: Chocolate Peppermint Bark

Recipe Time!!! This is a great treat for the holidays not just for yourself but these make great gifts for your family and friends and take no time to make!

What You Will Need: (Depending on how you end up breaking the bark will determine how much people it will serve so recipe varies depending on person making it)

1 Bar of Dark or Milk Chocolate (Pick one)

1 Bar of White Chocolate

2-3 Candy Canes 

Chopped Walnuts and Pecans (You can put whatever nuts you have on hand.)

Wax Paper/Parchment Paper

Flat Baking Sheet

How to Make:

1.) Using a microwavable bowl melt your chocolates separately (20-30 second intervals until your chocolate is a liquid consistency stir in between)

2.) Crush your candy canes by putting them in a plastic ziploc bag and pound

3.) Chop up your nuts

4.) Line your baking sheet with the wax paper

5.) Pour your dark or milk chocolate on the wax paper and spread out any shape you want doesn't really matter you will be breaking it into pieces later on. 

6.) Take a spoon and dip in the white chocolate and make drizzles on top of the dark or milk chocolate

7.) Add your crushed candy canes and nuts 

8.) Put in fridge for about 30 mins to 1 hr

9.) When harden break into pieces and ENJOY!!! 



  

GOBBLE GOBBLE: After Thanksgiving

As much as we all love Thanksgiving food leftovers can be a drag especially if they drag out for days. So this year let's skip the dry and old turkey sandwiches.

Recipe #1 Stuffing Croquettes- Great for left over stuffing, bread crumbs, and mashed potatoes

1.) In a bowl put your stuffing, bread crumbs and mashed potatoes

2.) Add a dash of Italian seasoning, hot pepper flakes (optional), white pepper and mix well

3.) In a separate bowl crack an egg and beat it till smooth, in another bowl pour your bread crumbs

4.) Form the stuffing mixture into a small patty, dip in egg, then in the bread crumbs

5.) In a frying pan put an inch of canola or vegetable oil (NO OLIVE OIL)

6.) Fry 3-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown

Cool and Enjoy

Recipe #2 Turkey Cranberry Salad- Great for left over Turkey, cranberries, and lettuce 

1.) With whatever turkey you have shred and heat up

2.) In a large bowl use whatever assorted greens you have on hand (I recommend a baby lettuce blend with spinach and arugula), cherry tomatoes, and cucumber

3.) Add your turkey and cranberries and tosh the salad

4.) Use either a balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing or a poppy seed dressing

Recipe #3 Turkey Panini- Great for left over Turkey, cranberry sauve and gravy

1.) Slice your turkey

2.) Take a piece of bread (Any type)

3.) Spread butter on one side and chiptole mayo (you can buy this pre-made at your local grocery store)

4.) Layer turkey, cranberry sauce and gravy (Add tomatoes if you have any and a slice of cheese)

5.) Put the other slice of bread on top and butter the top

6.) Put in a panini grill or in a sauce pan with a bit of butter and olive oil and then put another heavy pan on top of the sandwich

7.) Grill for 2 minutes

Recipe #4: Cream of Turkey Vegetable Noodle Soup- Great for leftover Turkey, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and gravy

1.) In a soup pot saute with olive oil and a tablespoon of butter an onion and 2 cloves of garlic along with any left over vegetables you have lying around

2.) Saute until the onion is translucent and the vegetables are tender

3.) Shred your turkey and add it into the pot along with gravy

4.) Add enough chicken broth till it covers your ingredients

5.) Add your noodles (Egg noodles work great in this)

6.) Add some mashed potatoes to thicken the soup

7.) Bring to a boil and let it simmer on medium low for about 15 minutes

Serve with some saltines or french bread :D

Recipe #5 Pumpkin Brownies- Great for leftover canned pumpkin

1.) Take any brownie recipe you like and instead of using oil and fat just add one can of canned pumpkin.

2.) You don't have to change any of the baking time just follow your recipe the pumpkin replaces all that fat so not only it will taste good it is also good for you :)

You can also add chocolate chips and nuts

GOBBLE GOBBLE: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

For those of you who love sweet potatoes out there then this is the recipe for you. This is inspired by my mom's recipe. I just tweaked it up a bit.

What you will need: (Feeds 6-8 people)

1 LB of Sweet Potatoes

1-2 Cups of Dark (packed) Brown Sugar- you won't need all of this just depends on your sweetness level

1 Tablespoon of Ground Cinnamon

1 Tablespoon of Vanilla Extract

1 Teaspoon of Maple Extract (You can substitute for maple syrup but the flavor of the extract is more concentrated)

1 package of Mini Marshmallows

1 Teaspoon of Salt

1 stick of Unsalted Butter

How To Make: 

1.) Butter a square baking dish and Preheat your oven to 350 Degrees

2.) Peel and boil your sweet potatoes until fork tender then in a separate bowl mash until smooth

3.) Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple extract, and 3 tablespoons of butter

4.) Put into your buttered baking dish and top the mixture with the mini marshmallows.

5.) Bake 5-10 minutes until the marshmallows are golden brown (Keep an eye on this it can burn)

Take out and enjoy!!!

GOBBLE GOBBLE: Garlic Ranch Mashed Potatoes

Hello again! Here is my recipe for the traditional mashed potatoes with a twist. I promise you this will be a crowd pleaser. 

What You Will Need: (This recipe feeds about 6-8 people depends on how much you love mashed potatoes)

1 Package of Powder Ranch Dressing (DO NOT USE THE LIQUID DRESSING)

1/2 Pound of Yukon Gold Potatoes (Russet Potatoes will also work if you can't get Yukon, Yukon potatoes are more buttery and creamery) 

1 Pint of Heavy Cream

1 Cup of Whole Milk (PLEASE DO NOT USE LOWFAT, SKIM ANY SORT OF "DIET" MILK IT WILL NOT TASTE THE SAME TRUST ME)

1 Stick of unsalted butter

1 whole bulb of garlic 

1 small container or sour cream (about 8oz.)

Salt and Black Pepper to taste

How To Make:
1.) Wash and peel your potatoes

2.) Boil your potatoes until fork tender (poke a fork and if it goes through and comes out clean your potatoes are done, do no overcook or undercook)

3.) While the potatoes are boiling wrap your garlic bulb in foil with some olive oil. Broil @ 350 degrees for 5-10 minutes until the garlic is soft. Keep an eye on this

4.) In a sauce pan melt your stick of butter and add the milk. DO NOT BOIL you just want to warm up the milk and melt the butter

5.) Take your potatoes and mash them into chunks

6.) Add your desired amount of garlic 

7.) Add the entire packet of powdered ranch dressing, milk and butter mixture (You do not need to add all the milk and butter, depends on how smooth you want it)

8.) Mix and Stir 

9.) Add the heavy cream (Add only to your desire consistency) and sour cream (must have!!!!)

10.) Taste and add salt and pepper if desired 

ENJOY!!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING :D 

Gift Ideas #4: Little Children (Ages 12 and under)

For those of you out there that have little brothers, sisters, cousins, nephews and nieces like me this blog post will definitely be for you. (Click on the product for prices and more information)

FOR THE LITTLE GIRLS:

1.) Scientific Explorer Magnificent Manicure Kit: This is for those adventurous little girls out there who are still girly on the inside. This kit lets the girls explore chemistry while giving themselves an amazing manicure at the same time! A unique twist on the same old nail polish set.

2.) Duct Tape Tote Kit: The name explains it all. Practical and fun to make at the same time.

3.) Personalized Jewelry: You can pretty much find this anywhere these days. Whether if it's a necklace that has their name or initials on it or earrings with their first letter of their name. The possibilities are endless.

4.) Despicable Me: I haven't met one little girl or boy that didn't like this movie. Plus it's entertaining enough that you can even watch it with them!

5.) A Shopping Day: Buying clothes and toys for little girls can be a hassle sometimes. So why not take them out for a day of shopping and quality time with you. They will not only be grateful for the gifts but also for the time you took out of your day just to spend it with them.

FOR THE LITTLE BOYS:

1.) LEGOS: Honestly what little boy today doesn't like LEGOS? Plus there are so many different types out there from Angry Birds to Star Wars. You really can't go wrong and there are ones for all different ages.

2.) Nerf Guns: Pretty much one of the best toys ever invented. Not only fun for them but also for you :D

3.) Mr. Potato Head: For those little boys ages 6 and under you can't go wrong with the classic Mr. Potato head. Not only entertaining but also great for brain stimulation.

4.) Cube World: Kind of like pixel chix, these generic-looking stick figures are interesting little digital friends. They are pre programmed with lots of interesting accessories and personalities. The little guys can visit each other and interact. They are sold in pairs.

5.) A Day of Food: What little boy doesn't like to eat? Take them out to their favorite place and eat, eat, and eat. Not to mention some quality time with your little guy or guys. 

GOBBLE GOBBLE: Apple Sausage Stuffing Recipe

One of my biggest passions in life is cooking. Food is a huge part of my life and not just for the eating aspect. It is a way I can let go and express myself and the holidays are my favorite time of the entire year to cook. I normally make most of the Thanksgiving dinner in my family. This holiday season I wanted to share some of my recipes. The first one being stuffing.

This is a very easy and delicious recipe. Seriously anyone can do it. This recipe doesn't have exact measurements and it really doesn't need it. You can make as much or as little as you want. This is a taste as you cook sorta recipe and trust me it will be delicious. The recipe below usually feeds about 6+ people.

What you will need:

1 giant loaf of french bread (enough to feed how many you are feeding) TIP: Pretty much all stuffing recipes require day old bread so that the bread can absorb all the flavors. If you can't get day old bread just buy fresh bread and leave it out unwrapped the night before you make your stuffing) 

1/2 pound of mild Italian sausage or chorizo (Chorizo is a Mexican sausage that is flavored with a lot of garlic but you can use whatever type of sausage you have on hand breakfast sausage also works really well in this)

1-3 Granny Smith Apples (If you have a large apple just use one if they are smaller then use 3)

3 Celery Stalks 

1 can of Campbell's Cream of Mushroom

1 can of Campbell's Cream of Chicken

4 Cups of Swanson Chicken Broth (ALWAYS have enough of chicken broth on hand especially during the holidays you may need a little more or a little less in this recipe depending on the consistency)

An assorted bunch of mushrooms (This is totally optional but I like the nice woodsy flavor it gives to the stuffing. Portobellos, shitakes, porcini, oyster, and white button mushrooms work great in this together.) TIP: Porcini mushrooms usually come dehydrated and can be a little difficult to find. If you do happen to find it just soak the mushrooms in some hot water for 5 minutes or until they plump off and reserve the liquid for the stuffing mixture

1 large or 3 small shallots (If you can't find shallots just use a vidalia or yellow onion, I personally prefer shallots since they are a bit sweeter and milder than regular onions)

2-3 Teaspoons of garlic (More or less depending your taste buds)

1/2 Tablespoons of Italian Seasoning (No brand in particular just get what you can)

1/2 Tablespoons each of dried Sage and Oregano (You can totally leave this out if you want since there is already some in the Italian seasoning I like the extra flavor)

1 stick of unsalted butter (You won't use the whole thing)

1 cup of breadcrumbs

1 Tablespoon of parsley

Salt and Pepper to taste 

How to make:

1.) In a large bowl cut your French bread into giant cubes and set aside (Make sure the bowl is large we will be adding more stuff into it later.

2.) Dice your shallots and garlic

3.) Chop the apples and celery into bit size pieces (Make sure they are close in size to ensure even cooking) If you want mushrooms this is the time to chop them up and soak the porcinis if you have them.

4.) In a saucepan crumble up the sausage and cook along with the shallots and garlic until the sausage starts to brown.

5.) Add the Italian seasoning and herbs except the parsley, apples, and celery

6.) Add 1/2 can each of the cream of mushroom and chicken

7.) Stir well and wait until the creams start to bubble a bit and the apples and celery are cooked but still crunchy (At this point taste to see if you need any more seasoning)

8.) Take off heat and pour the contents into the bowl with the bread

9.) Stir and slowly add the chicken broth. You might not need the 4 cups you just want enough broth that the mixture is soft not smushy

10.) Butter a baking dish and pour the stuffing into it

11.) Top with little chunks of butter and breadcrumbs and cover with tin foil

12.) Bake at 350 for 15 mins or until the top is golden brown (After 10 mins take of the foil and bake for 5 more mins) 

13.) When finished take out of the oven and let it cool. Sprinkle some parsley right before serving and ENJOY! 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! :D 

Gift Ideas #3: For Parents and G-Parents

Parents and grandparents are always difficult to buy gifts for. They either tell you specifically what they want which most of the time you can't find or it's just crazy expensive or they tell you not to waste your money and that you are their present. Here are some ideas for your parents and grandparents that hopefully won't break your bank. 

For MOMS and GRANDMAS: 

1.) A Spa Day: This is something that is easily obtainable. Every city has local spas that are affordable and come with many options like massages, manicures/pedicures, mud baths and so forth. You can pick one or multiple things for your mom and the best part is most spas these days offer specials for groups so why not plan a day for your mom and YOU. 

2.) Serenity Stone Drops: Of course jewelry is always a great option for a gift. These earrings from Stella and Dot are made from hand-cut jade. The color and shape is very versatile and can be paired with pretty much any outfit. So instead of always buying the same old gold or silver jewelry try something unique like this. It will show your mom that you made a little extra more effort with her gift. $49 @ www.stelladot.com

3.)  Turkish Solid Fouta: When it comes to clothes as gifts this is something I don't recommend unless you know EXACTLY the person's style and what he or she likes. However something like this you really can't go wrong. The Turkish Solid Foutas can be either worn as a scarf or shawl for those cool, brisky days. So it is like buying 2 gifts in one. These are made from 100% cotton linen and come in many colors. $59.50 @ www.scentsandfeel.com 

4.) Milk Bottle Measuring Cups: For those moms and grandmas out there that have a passion for food and cooking these measuring cups are just the thing. Forget the boring old standard cylinder measuring cups, these come with 4 measuring cups that when stacked together form the classic old-school milk bottle. You know those ones when the milkman use to deliver back in our parents and grandparents generation. They are not just used for cooking but make a great centerpiece for any kitchen. I personally would love to receive this as a gift. $24 @ www.anthroplogie.com 

5.) Wonder Woman Mug: Mothers and grandmothers are basically today's modern wonder woman. They pretty much do everything. So why not give them a mug of "themselves". $10.50 @ www.paper-source.com 

For Dads and GRANDPAS

1.) Whiskey and Rum making kit: This is a more unique approach than just buying your dad or grandpa a $100 bottle of whisky or rum. It gives them something to do and at the same time enjoy. If your dad or grandpa doesn't like whiskey or rum there are also gin making kits out there too. $25-$70 @ http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/whiskey-and-rum-making-kit

2.) Bacon Balsamic Dressing: Let's get real here anything with bacon is dad and grandpa approved. Their wives may not always allow them to have some so this is a great treat for them and at the same time get some veggies into their alcohol and meat filled bellies. A simple and delicious dressing with just enough smokey bacon flavor to keep them satisfied for at least a little while. $7.50 @ www.madeinwashington.com 

3.) JonBoy Absinthe With Black Salt Caramels: Sweet and mysterious. These are hand-made caramels with notes of black salt and liquor. A nice and unique twist to those classic caramels and come on the alcohol doesn't hurt. $9 @ www.jonboycaramels.com 

4.) Victorinox Swiss Army Flash: And of course we have to throw in something techy. The classic Swiss Army knife that our dads and grandpas used to carry when we were kids but with a modern twist. Not only it contains the standard tools like a knife it has a USB and flash light attachment. Perfect size for keychains your dad or grandpa will never leave the house without it. $220 (I'm sure you can get this for cheaper or even something similar to this) @ Retailers nationwide that carry Swiss Army knives

5.) Polo Shirt: You can never go wrong with a Polo shirt. It's classic and something that is very easy to wear and works on ALL GUYS. I normally don't like to buy clothes for people but when it comes to Polo shirts they are so simple and easy to wear and come in so many colors and a whole bunch of brands. Some of my favorite brands for Polo shirts are Ralph Lauren and IZOD. These are brands you can pretty much find anywhere and are also very affordable ranging from $15 and up 

Review: LORAC Unzipped Palette

With the holidays fast approaching, us girls are probably already putting together outfits and makeup looks for the upcoming joyous season. One of my lastest discoveries in the world of makeup is the LORAC Unzipped Eyeshadow palette. And with the holidays coming up I thought it would be a great idea to review some makeup products for you guys to use or give out as gifts.

LORAC Unzipped Palette $40

The palette comes with 10 neutral warm colors. Just looking at it screams holiday. All the eyeshadows in the palette are incredibly soft and easy to use also very well pigmented like most LORAC eyeshadows. Most of the colors have a satin finish no chunky glitter or over the top shimmer. There are also some matte colors that are great for blending or darkening eye looks. 

(Colors are listed from top left to right same as the bottom row) 

Undercover: A white creamy color with a satin finish. This isn't the most pigmented color in the palette but it is great as a highlight for the brow bone or inner corner.

Unbelievable: A shimmery copper color with little gold flecks

Unattainable: A light shimmery brown 

Unconditional: A cool tone brown color with a mauve undertone. This like Undercover isn't super pigmented but it is absolutely great for blending out colors in the crease OR just to give your crease a natural shadow 

Unbridled: Dark warm brown. Has a matte finish great for smokey eyes

Undiscovered: Gold champagne color great all over the lid color

Unreal: A beautiful pinky gold color

Uncensored: Darkest shimmery brown

Unspoken: A warm brown with a matte finish

Untamed: A very, very dark brown with a hint of shimmer super pretty can also be used as a liner for a less harsh look compared to black liners

TOP ROW

BOTTOM ROW

This palette is slightly expensive but the colors are so warm and neutral that even if you don't purchase this for the holidays it is still a great everyday palette. The quality is very nice and each palette also comes along with a miniature size of LORAC's Behind the scenes eye primer (This primer is actually pretty amazing I used it on a trip to China during the summer where it was about 100 degrees pretty much everyday and my eyeshadow not only stayed on for a long time but by the end of the day it looked like that I just put it on). This is one of LORAC's most popular palettes so it does get sold out quite fast even in stores. So if you see it and want it grab one don't wait trust me you won't regret it.

Here are some online sites where you can purchase the palette: 

http://www.loraccosmetics.com/make-up_unzipped-palette.html

http://www.sephora.com/unzipped-200-value-P303412?SKUID=1385988&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=1385988&om_mmc=Google%7badtype%7d&_requestid=42976&cm_mmc=us_search-_-GG-_-%7badtype%7d-_-%7bkeyword%7d (also available at Sephora stores) 

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006Z773PM/?tag=googhydr-20&hvadid=25857234277&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12304759081359963047&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_4yp3d9k2zy_b

http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4320067 (also available at Ulta stores) 

Gift Ideas #2: Gamers and Tech Heads

GAMERS:

Prices aren't listed because different places and websites all have different prices and policies

Call of Duty: Ghosts (Already released) Available for the following gaming systems PC, PS3, Xbox 360, WIIU, XBGS, PS4, and Xbox One

Battlefield 4: (Already released) Available for the following gaming systems PC, PS3, PS4, XBOX360 and Xbox One

Mario Party Island Tour: (November 22, 2013) Available only for 3DS

Mario and Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games: (Already released) Available for the following gaming systems WIIU

Infinite Crisis (For those League of Legend lovers out there): PC

Killer Instinct: (November 22, 2013) Available for the following gaming systems Xbox One

Assassins Creed IV Black Flag: Already released for PS3 and Xbox 360. PS4 and Xbox one are currently in production. PC version will be released on November 19th.

And of course gotta have some options for those sports lovers out there...

Basketball: NBA 2K14 (PS4 and Xbox One)

Football: Madden NFL 25 (PS4 and Xbox One)

Soccer: FIFA 14 (PS4 and Xbox One)

Of course a little tech for you gamers...

Nintendo Pokemon X & Y Limited Edition 3DS XL (Comes in either red or blue)

PSPgo Sony 

Xbox 360 Elite 

Tech Heads:

Canon VIXIA Mini Camcorder (Comes in white or black) 

Magic Cube Visual Laser Keyboard

The Genie 

Gift Ideas #1: For Those Makeup Lovers

Over the next couple of weeks I will be releasing a series of blog posts dedicated to gift giving. From the makeup lover to the video gamer. Hope you guys enjoy and get some ideas for your gifts to your loved ones this holiday season.

The first post I of course wanted to cover are for those makeup lovers because this year this is probably the easiest type of person to buy gifts for. This holiday season they have released some pretty awesome makeup sets that are for every makeup lover's dream. What is great about giving kits to people is that not only you are giving your loved one options you can also take the kit apart and many different gifts out of one. 

1.) SEPHORA Favorites Lash Stash: Each year Sephora releases their infamous lash stash, a collection of the top best selling mascara of the year. This year is no exception. Sephora definitely outdone themselves again. The kit sells for $45 which is a very decent price. If you were to purchase each mascara in this kit separately it will cost you about $145 total, each mascara retails by itself for about $20-$40. This year's kit includes:

- 0.10 oz Benefit They're Real Mascara 

- 0.141 oz Blinc Mascara 

- 0.2 oz BUXOM Lash Mascara 

- 0.14 oz Clinique High Impact Mascara 

- 0.135 oz Lancôme Hypnôse Drama 

- 0.13 oz Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant 

- 1 x Sephora Collection False Eye Lashes in Celebrity 

- 0.5 oz Sephora Collection Outrageous Mascara 

- 0.31 oz Tarte Lights, Camera, Flashes™ Statement Mascara 

- 0.17 oz Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara 

- 0.06 oz Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effect Faux Cils Baby Doll

All the samples are pretty decent size and this entire set will last you for a very long time. I have personally tried all of these mascaras (not all at once of course) and they are pretty much some of the best of best out on the market today. You may not enjoy each and every one of them but you will certainly find one to your liking I can promise you that. 

2.) SEPHORA His and Her's Perfume samplers: Doesn't matter if you are female or male we all like to smell nice. But perfumes and colognes can be pretty expensive today and no one wants to commit to a full sized bottle unless they get a chance to try a sample for a little while. Well this holiday season you are in luck. Sephora released a couple different sets of perfume and cologne samplers. 

This kit includes: 

- 0.06 oz Hugo Boss Bottled Night by Hugo Boss (Scent certificate redeems for 1.6 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.05 oz Bvlgari Man Extreme by Bvlgari (Scent certificate redeems for 2.0 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.05 oz Zegna Uomo by Ermenegildo (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.05 oz Acqua Di Giò by Giorgio Armani (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.03 oz Gentlemen Only by Givenchy (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.06 oz Guilty Pour Homme by Gucci (Scent certificate redeems for 1.6 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.03 oz L’eau D’issey Pour Homme by Issey Miyake (Scent certificate redeems for 2.5 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.03 oz “Le Male” by Jean Paul Gaultier (Scent certificate redeems for 2.5 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.05 oz Vintage by John Varvatos (Scent certificate redeems for 2.5 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.06 oz Eau De Lacoste, L.12.12 Blanc by Lacoste (Scent certificate redeems for 3.3 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.05 oz 1 Million by Paco Rabanne (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.05 oz Luna Rossa by Prada (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.05 oz Polo Red by Ralph Lauren (Scent certificate redeems for 2.5 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- 0.05 oz L’homme by Yves Saint Laurent (Scent certificate redeems for 2.0 oz Eau de Toilette Spray) 
- Travel Bag (9 1/2" W x 4 1/4" D x 4 3/4" H) 

This kit includes:

- 0.40 oz Rollerball in Kate Walsh's Boyfriend (Scent certificate redeems for 1.6 oz Eau de Parfum Spray) 
- 0.34 oz Rollerball in Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gioia (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum Spray) 
- 0.34 oz Rollerball in Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum Spray) 
- 0.34 oz Rollerball in Lancôme Trésor (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum Spray) 
- 0.33 oz Rollerball in Tocca Colette (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum Spray) 
- 9" W x 1/2" D x 7 3/4" H Beauty Pouch (Scent certificate redeems for 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum Spray) 
- Bonus Item: 1 oz TokyoMilk Dark Tainted Love No. 62 Handcrème 

This His set retails for $65 and the Hers set retails for $85. What is great also about these two kits is that when you purchase one after you are done trying each one you can come into Sephora to redeem your choice our of the kit for a full size version of that sample for free. This is a deal that comes around once a year so you definitely do not want to miss out on it. 

3.) STILA Essential Artist Set: A collection of Stila's must-haves: There is a great variety of eyeshadow in this set that can create dozens of looks. What I love about this set is that most eyeshadow sets for the holidays can get very bulky in packaging and sometimes even a little overwhelming with all those colors. This kit gives you just enough colors and Stila eyeshadows are extremely pigmented and very easy to work with. The entire kit retails for $59. 

The set includes:

- 0.14 oz x 4 Pop Art eye shadow in: Parity(shimmery sand), Irony (golden khaki green), Primary (golden hunter green), Edgy (midnight green)
- 0.14 oz x 4 Renaissance eye shadow in: Poetry (shimmery light gold), Perspective (golden bronze), Fresco (copper shimmer), Drama (rich matte brown)
- 0.14 x 4 Abstract eye shadow in: Illusion (delicate white pink), Vivid (soft lavender), Visual (deep aubergine), Linear (matte purple smoke)
- 0.14 oz x 4 Surreal eye shadow in: Dream (soft nude), Symbolic (metallic beige shimmer), Fantasy (deep taupe), Reality (matte black smoke)
- 0.07 Deluxe Convertible Color Lip & Cheek Cream in Peony (neutral nude with pink undertones)
- 0.03 oz Deluxe Stay All Day® Liquid Lipstick in Patina (dusty rose)
- 0.01 oz Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Stingray (jet black)
- #9 brush
- How-to card 

4.) NARS Guy Bourdin Holiday Collection Limited Edition One Night Stand Cheek Palette: Inspired by legendary photographer Guy Bourdin this is pretty much all the blush one would ever need in their life. Nars blushes are one of the best in the makeup world. Highly pigmented, beautiful rich color. This is definitely something that every makeup lover cannot pass up. This palette retails for $65

This palette contains: - 0.14 oz x 6 Blush in Laguna (diffused brown powder with golden shimmer), Deep Throat (flirty, sheer peach), Orgasm (peachy pink with golden shimmer), Mistinguette (bright pink), Goulue (medium pink), Devotee (highlighter) 

All the items mentioned above can be purchased @ www.sephora.com or www.amazon.com