The Ultimate Gilmore Girls Watch Party Schedule.
By. Emery W.
Where you lead, I will follow…. STRAIGHT TO NETFLIX.
Anyone else out there a massive Gilmore Girls fan? If you’re not, you should be and soon! Netflix is releasing a four-episode special of the popular CW show entitled, Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life on November 25th. In preparation for such a momentous occasion, I’ve decided to re-watch the entire series in 34 days. That’s right; 7 season, 153 episodes, in 34 days.
If you’re like me, and have a full-time job, semi-regular workout routine, and somewhat of a social life, this is a rigorous binge-watching challenge, but totally worth the time. The best part about it is, it’s all on Netflix so I can watch while I’m on the treadmill.
Of course, you don’t have to follow this exact schedule. This happens to be fixed to my regular functioning hours, but if you have more time, more power to you to watch. Plus if you’re an insomniac, you can watch through the night, and pull a classic GG move, and load up on coffee the next day. It’s your choice.
*Each episode is approximately 45 minutes long (give or take) which is where my time line came from.
Beginning Friday, October 21st:
- 8 PM – 11 PM Season 1, Episodes 1-4
Saturday, October 22nd:
- 10 AM – 11:30 AM; Episodes 5 and 6
- 8 PM – 11 PM: Episodes 7-10
Sunday, October 23rd:
- 9 AM – 12 PM; Episodes 11-14
- 3 PM – 4:30 PM; Episodes 15 and 16
For the following six weeks, the schedule will go as follows:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday; 7 PM – 10 PM (4 episodes)
Wednesday*; 6:45 PM – 9 PM (3 episodes)
Friday; 8 PM – 11PM (4 episodes)
Saturday; 10 AM – 11:30 AM/2 PM – 5 PM (6 episodes)
Sunday; 9 AM – 12 PM/3 PM – 4:30 PM (6 episodes)
*Wednesdays are carved out this way so that I can still have my American Horror Story fix.
You see? There’s plenty of time for lunch breaks, Sunday football, and a weekend social life if you so choose to have one. If you follow this schedule, the last episode of season seven would be watched on Thursday, November 24th. One day before the new episodes are released.
Sound complicated? Don’t worry. Like I said, it’s not a must that this schedule be followed to a T. Watch at your own pace. But I do highly suggest watching the series because I’ve got a feeling, these new episodes are going to be great.
Play Review: Rent's 20th Anniversary Tour.
By. Emery W.
Last Sunday, I was extremely fortunate enough to see a Rent: 20th Anniversary Tour show in Dallas. If you read my review of Hamilton then you probably get the picture that I’m a pretty big musical buff, and Rent, written by the late Jonathan Larson happens to be in my top five favorites.
I remember the first time I saw the film adaptation of the play, and instantly fell in love with the story. I spent hours on YouTube searching for videos of live performances, listening to the original cast album, and memorizing the lyrics. It’s also important that I point out that the film adaptation and live musical have a plethora of differences, and my review reflects my thoughts of the stage play, not the movie. It was quite hard for me to push the original casts voices out of my head while watching the 20th Anniversary show, but I managed to do it somehow.
This was the first live musical I’ve ever seen aside from the year my high school’s fine arts department did West Side Story back in 2009. The staging was perfect, and painted the picture of late 80’s, bohemian, New York City. The plot of the musical centers around a group of eight friends, each with different backgrounds and their own personal struggles. I don’t want to give too much away, but it was written for the times (1989-1990) and includes topics of homosexuality, drugs, and HIV/AIDS.
The show opens with Mark, the show’s narrator and resident film maker portrayed by Danny Harris Kornfeld. He brings the character to life impeccably, and is basically the second coming of Anthony Rupp who originated the role. Mark is best friends and the roommate of Roger, former front man of a successful rock band who is a recovering drug addict, and all-around homebody due to some inner demons.
Kaleb Wells, who portrays Roger does an excellent job of exuding the essence of a recovering addict, but personally I was missing the raw, husky rock star voice one comes to expect in a former rock star. But what Wells lacks vocally, he more than makes up for in his emotional acting chops. Every scene he has with his love interest, Mimi (played by Skyler Vope) pulls you in with every word.
Skyler Vope plays a great, 19-year-old Mimi who’s addicted to drugs and Roger. Her voice is unique, and you can feel her emotion in every note. Mimi is best friends with the cross dressing Angel played by David Merino.
Angel may be the most iconic and complex character in the musical, and Merino does him so much justice. He’s exciting, charismatic, and the heart of the group. Angel is in a relationship with Collins, the group’s anarchist and voice of reason. Aaron Harrington is by far, the breakout performer of the entire show. As Collins, his powerful, round baritone voice is booming. The most incredible part is this was Harrington’s first experience on stage.
Both actresses who portray Joanne and Maureen (Jasmine Easler and Katie Lamark, respectively) shined as a couple. Their chemistry on stage is uncanny, and their performance of Take Me or Leave Me rivaled that of Idina Menzel and Fredi Walker who originated the roles.
Of course the supporting ensemble cast members can’t go without recognition. The performance wouldn’t be possible without each of them with standout member Alia Hodge whose solo during Seasons of Love sent chills throughout my body.
All-in-all, there’s never a way to copy an original, and the Broadway cast from 20 years ago will always be the most iconic, but the current touring cast members do not disappoint in bringing Jonathan Larson’s vision to life.
If you have the opportunity arises for you to see this show in your area, I urge you to take in the experience to see the show with a message that has resonated for 20 years, and will continue to for years to come. Jonathan Larson would be proud.
6 Ways to Keep Your Skin Hydrated During the Winter.
by Val N
Hey everyone! Winter is coming and if you’re like me, you probably suffer from dry, chapped skin during the cold season. Kirsten and I have talked about it so many times; we constantly complain about our dry skin and how we can remedy it. Well have no fear! This week’s beauty editorial is to provide you with some tips on how to keep your skin hydrated… even during the winter season so you can look fresh and glowing all year long!
1) Drink Water
This is a no-brainer but the key to staying hydrated is to drink plenty of water, no matter what season it is. Oftentimes, I opt for soda or coffee, which actually dehydrate you. To fix this problem, I bought a water bottle that has marks for 8oz, 16oz, 32oz, etc. I bring that water bottle to work and leave it on my desk so it’s constantly in my sight. And it’s a constant reminder to keep drinking water. There are also apps, such as Waterlogged, that remind you to drink up and help you track your water intake so you can stay hydrated.
2) Exfoliate Once a Week
As contradictory as it sounds, exfoliating once a week helps to keep your skin hydrated. I say once a week because if you overdo it, you’ll end up with even dryer skin or worse… I’ve overdone it before and my skin started breaking out. The point of exfoliating is to get rid of the dry, top layer of your skin and allow newer, fresher skin to reveal itself. I like to use St. Ive’s Apricot Fresh Skin Scrub.
3) Use a Facial Moisturizer
After exfoliating, make sure to apply moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Since my skin tends to be dryer during the winter time, I switch to gel based moisturizers. It really helps lock in the moisture compared to cream based moisturizers. One of my favorites is Philosphy’s Take a Deep Breath Oil-Free Oxygenating Gel Cream. For something more affordable, I also like to use Garnier’s SKINACTIVE Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream, which is very lightweight and smells so good!
4) Carry Lotion with You
It’s as important to keep the rest of your body as hydrated as your face. For the last few years, I’ve worked in the restaurant industry as a server. That means I’m constantly washing my hands, which tends to dry my skin out. And it’s worse in the winter time. So over the years, I’ve learned to always carry hand lotion with me and apply it right after I wash my hands. I have a bottle of Yes to Coconuts Protecting Hand & Cuticle Cream on my desk at work and I also keep a tube of the Body Shop’s Wild Argan Oil Hand Cream.
5) Apply Lip Balm
On top of carrying hand cream in my purse, I also make sure to carry lip balm with me. It’s an absolute essential for me throughout the entire year. Sometimes we forget our lips are also considered skin and it’s one of my biggest pet peeves when my lips are chapped and unkissable. My all-time favorite is EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in Sweet Mint. It leaves my lips soft, supple, and kissable! It also tastes sweet like mint.
6) Use a Face Spray
This is a bonus tip because I prefer to use a face spray during the summer. But it works just as well in the winter time! During the summer time, I spritz face spray to freshen up and cool off. But during the winter time, you can use face spray to keep your skin hydrated when when it’s feeling dry. My favorite is the Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herb, and Rosewater. It’s cheap, portable, and smells just like roses!
Those are 6 tips on how to keep your skin hydrated during the winter time. What are some of your tricks for keeping your skin hydrated? Let us know! Don’t forget to like and follow us on social media.
08.05.16
It’s Friday pals! Welcome to another edition of On The Edge, where we hope you find a piece of yourselves within our community. We have been hard at work trying to make this place as comfortable as possible for all of you. As always we appreciate each and every one of you!
xx OTE is love
P L A Y L I S T
Check out our Editor’s Choice playlist for the week! Our playlists are only on Spotify so we decided to list the songs here too!
- Drowners ‘Pick Up The Pace’
- DJ Khaled ‘ For Free’
- ZHU ‘Faded’
- Miike Snow ‘Black + Blue’
- Radiohead ‘15 Step’
- Ed Sheeran ‘Bloodstream’
- Afrojack ‘Ten Feet Tall’
- Sky Ferreira ‘Red Lips’
- The Maine ‘ You’ll Never Know’
- Major Lazer ‘Thunder + Lightening (Feat. Gent + Jawns)’
- Pitbull ‘Ay Chico (Lengua Afuera)’
- UGK ‘Int’l Players Anthem’
- Childish Gambino ‘3005′
- Peaches ‘Boys Wanna Be Her’
- Parachute ‘Kiss Me Slowly’
- Lolawolf ‘Drive (Los Angeles)’
- Rooney ‘Daisy Duke’
- Billie Eilish ‘ Ocean Eyes (Blackbear remix)’
- Moose Blood ‘Gum’
Follow your dreams, that is what we are going to leave with you today. See On The Edge is something much bigger than every person that pours their hearts into it. It is alive with a spirit of compassion and love, and we here can feel that in every article we write. We are chasing our purpose, and even if you’re chasing yours alone or you have an amazing family to lean on. Never stop going after whatever it is that you want. It doesn’t matter your age, or your self identifiers you can make it happen. The only thing standing in your way is YOU.
Go out into this world and be great.
xx The OTE Editorial Team
07.29.16
Welcome friends! It’s another Friday + another chance to read brand new articles! As we always say, we are so thankful for all of you who have become a part of our community. We also want to say that a lot of bad is trying to takeover right now, and nobody has time for that. Continue to be positive and full of love, project those feelings into the world because we need it. Love always win, and hate has NO place here.
P L A Y L I S T
Check out our Editor’s Choice Playlist for the week! Our playlists are only on Spotify, so we decided to list the songs here too!
- Gucci Mane ‘Back On Road’
- Lolawolf ‘ Teardrop’
- Arkarna ‘ So Little Time’
- Esthero ‘Black Mermaid’
- Capital Cities ‘Safe + Sound’
- Mark Morrison ‘Return of The Mack’
- Backstreet Boys ‘Quit Playing Games With My Heart’
- Rihanna ‘James Joint’
- The Cars ‘Drive’
- The Hotelier ‘Your Deep Rest’
- Cass McCombs ‘ I Went to The Hospital’
- Ok Go ‘I Want You So Bad I Can’t Breathe’
- DNCE ‘Pay My Rent’
- The Weeknd ‘The Party + The Afterparty’
- Massive Attack ‘What Your Soul Sings’
- Melanie Martinez ‘Milk + Cookies’
- Glass Animals ‘Cocoa Hooves’
- Lykke Li ‘I Follow Rivers (The Magician Remix)
- Blackbear ‘Grey L.A’
- Slow Magic ‘Girls’
Periods, every single person on this Earth with a vagina has one. Sometimes it comes at a reasonable time and sometimes it comes like a thief in the night to steal every pair of decent underwear you own. Having a period is like having one of those distant relatives that you see only on holidays, and don’t actually like. Your period is a time where it is acceptable to eat a lot, cry over small things and ask strangers to check out your butt. Although, periods are a great way to clean out our bodies, and tell us that we aren’t having any babies. It can also be very difficult, between 1 and 20 people of childbearing age suffers from PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), approximately five million suffer from endometriosis, and many suffer from other reproductive complications that can cause fertility, weight gain, and in some cases cancer. Many people as young as 13 have to take birth control to regulate their periods and help ease symptoms.
There are many ways to help make being on your period a bit easier, some choose to take medicine (Advil, or something prescribed from their doctor), some even use tea and other homemade remedies to ease the pains coming from their uterus. Whoopi Goldberg and her business partner Maya Synergy created a line of medical cannabis products that are specifically made for your period! Obviously, you must be of legal age and live in a state that allows that to use the products! There are also other alternatives to wearing factory made pads + tampons! Diva cups , period panties , and there are companies who make organic products as well! However, as it is YOUR period you use what makes you comfortable. That’s the thing, you period is your own and you shouldn’t be ashamed of it. Having a period is a part of life and it’s normal. Bleeding from your vagina is normal, having stains on your panties from pads and tampons not doing their job is normal. It’s about time we get real about the crime scene in our panties y’all, and if someone makes you feel ashamed of it kick them in the kneecap!
As always make sure you go to the doctor if you feel like something is off, whether that be the color, smell or your cramps seem worse than normal. Your vagina is a part of your body and you should take care of it!
xx The OTE Editorial Team
07.22.16
Happy Friday, it’s almost the end of July and we are sad to see it go (although we won’t miss this heat)! We just wanted to take this time to thank all of you who read our articles! The OTE family really appreciates your continuing support and positive energy! #OTEIsLove
P L A Y L I S T
Check out our Editor’s Choice Playlist for the week! Our playlists are only on Spotify, so we decided to list the songs here too!
- Gym Class Heroes ‘Cookie Jar’
- Sleeping With Sirens ‘ James Dean + Audrey Hepburn’
- Turnover ‘I Would Hate You If I Could’
- Millie Jackson ‘It Hurts So Good’
- Betty Wright ‘Clean Up Woman’
- Foals ‘My Number’
- The Strokes ‘Last NIte’
- Turbo Fruits ‘The Way I Want You’
- He Is We ‘Happily Ever After’
- Marianas Trench ‘Shaketramp’
- Sleigh Bells ‘Treats’
- Troye Sivan ‘DKLA’
- 21 Pilots ‘Doubt’
- Oberhofer ‘I Could Go’
- Ariana Grande ‘Into You’
- Sleeping With Sirens ‘Your Nickel Ain’t Worth My Dime’
- Panic! At the Disco ‘Girls/Girls/Boys’
- FKA Twigs ‘Numbers’
- Warpaint ‘Disco/Very’
- The Drums ‘Kiss Me Again’
Yes, yes you are important, and you should tell yourself that EVERY SINGLE DAY. The most important relationship in your life is the one with yourself. You spend every day, all day with you so why shouldn’t you be in a happy relationship? We always put time into making the relationships with our friends, significant others, and families the best they can be… So why not do the same for you? Do you ever just take time to look in the mirror and say “hey I love you”, or just take time to appreciate your own talents? If your answer is no, you’ve got some work to do. Loving yourself doesn’t happen over night, nor is it always a walk in the park. It takes time, lots of time to really understand who you are and what you deserve. You can’t rely on others to tell you that you’re important, YOU have to know that you’re important and that no matter what happens… You’re the shit.
xx The OTE Editorial Team
07.15.16
Happy Friday everyone! We want to take a minute to send our love + light to the people affected by the tragedies in Paris. There is so much going on in this world + we just want people to remember that there is good out here. In light of all that is happening please remember that it’s okay to check out for awhile. Death and pain can take a toil on people + if it’s causing you mental discomfort take time for yourself.
OTE Is Love.
It’s another week, and another playlist! Check out our Editor’s Choice Playlist for the week! Our playlists are only on Spotify, so we decided to list the songs here too!
P L A Y L I S T
- Brooke Waggoner ‘Fresh Pair of Eyes’
- Turnover ‘Dizzy On The Comedown’
- Lydia ‘All I See’
- Cupcakke ‘Deepthroat’
- Forever The Sickest Kids ‘She’s A Lady’
- Karen O + The Kids ‘All Is Love’
- The Veronica’s ‘ Take Me On The Floor’
- The Maine ‘ Waiting For My Sun To Shine’
- Miniature Tigers ‘Used To Be My Shit’
- Bando Jonez ‘ Sex You’
- The Cool Kids ‘Bassment Party’
- Selena ‘Como La Flor’
- Queen Latifah ‘ U. N. I. T. Y.’
- Brandy ‘I Wanna Be Down’
- Local Natives ‘Fountain Of Youth’
- J.Cole ‘Wet Dreamz’
- Maxwell ‘Sumthin, Sumthin’
- Barf Troop ‘Garbage Pail Princess’
- Junglepussy ‘Pop for You
- Real Friends ‘Late Nights In My Car
It’s okay to not want to settle down and get married, in the world we live in women are expected to marry, bare children + that whole shebang. However, let me tell you something YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE THAT UNLESS YOU WANT TO. That’s the thing about being human we can pick and choose who and what we are in this world. If you want to be a wife and a mother, go for it! Stripper? Do you girl! That’s the thing as women we have a life time of opportunity to showcase ourselves in whatever way we want. Do not let anyone tell you any differently, your life is YOUR OWN. You do not owe anyone an explanation nor do you have to anyone’s permission to be yourself. Go out into this world, and be whoever the hell you want!
Go be the badass that you are, and shake this world up.
xx OTE Editorial Staff
07.08.16
Welcome to our little piece of this community, we are but two young black women who have something to say. We are Kirsten + Mariah we are sisters in a sense. We come from different humans, but our souls are definitely related. We created this space for people who like us, often feel like aliens because no one ever gets it. We hope that On The Edge becomes a place where people spread nothing but love + their truth. OTE is love + love is truth.
Check out this weeks playlist brought to you by yours truly. Our playlists are only on Spotify, so we decided to list the songs here too!
P L A Y L I S T
- Lolawolf ‘ Bitch’
- Lucy Rose ‘Shiver’
- Chester French ‘Black Girls’
- Massive Attack ‘Paradise Circus’
- Chance The Rapper ‘How Great’
- Mickey Guyton ‘ Heartbreak Song’
- Fannypack ‘Hey Mami’
- Grapell ‘Best Friend’
- Tegan + Sara ‘Hang on to the Night’
- Suga Free ‘ Allergic To Bullshit’
- Blackbear ‘Deadroses’
- The 1975 ‘Loving Someone’
- Major Lazer ‘Mary Jane’
- Walk The Moon ‘ We Are The Kids’
- Troye Sivan ‘Too Good’
- Borns ‘American Money’
- Grimes ‘Vowels = Space + Time’
- The Maine ‘Ice Cave’
- Best Coast ‘ Our Deal’
- Broods ‘Sober’
In light of what is happening in this world, we would like to say that no matter what the media tells you. We WILL BE alright, this fight is worth it, and no matter how hard they try to tear us down our spirits will NEVER shake. We stand with the victims of police brutality, and we stand in solitude with those of us still living to fight. We will not be silenced, and we will not bow down to those in power. Black lives matter, and we will do EVERYTHING in our willpower to make sure that message is as clear as a sunny day.
Album Review: A Seat at the Table
by Kirsten F.
“Fall in your ways, so you can wake up and rise.”
I don’t know about the rest of you, but I have had Solange’s new album “A Seat at the Table” on repeat since it dropped the other day. I’ve always been a massive Solange fan, ever since her first album. I admire her style, how she carriers herself and how she lets her black girl magic shine so brightly. “A Seat at the Table” is a mixture of eclectic beats and mellow vocals. With features from artist like Lil Wayne, Kelly Rowland, Q-Tip and many more. This album is a sure fire chart topper (which it is by the way it’s currently number one on The Billboard 200 chart).
With hits like “Cranes in the Sky” and my personal favorite “Rise” Solange’s new album is a masterpiece. Like her sister Queen Bey’s album “Lemonade” Solange’s music is rooted in southern black culture. Solange has a voice that makes you feel as if you’re on the top of a mountain dancing in circles. Her smooth vocals will have you drift off into a day dream of sunflower fields and mimosas. While it brings out those feelings of being a carefree black girl. It also reminds me of Sunday night dinners growing up, having the entire family over and each person in their assigned seat laughing and enjoying fellowship.
There’s so many layers to being black, and “A Seat at the Table” dives into every single one. The struggles and the magic that we experience as black women is something that not everyone understands. That’s why this album is so needed it tells not just her story, but all of our stories.
I’ve always been a highly influenced by Solange and her creativity. How her mind works to create albums, video, shoots, and her fabulous website Saint Heron . She is constantly setting trends, pushing boundaries with her style, and her bold personality. She truly outdid herself with the visuals for “Don’t Touch My Hair” and “Cranes In The Sky”. A range of brown and black folks wearing so many vibrant colors, beautiful scenery, and eccentric choreography these videos have also been on repeat. As a creator myself, I thrive off of amazing visuals, and Solange has captivated me with her creative thought process.
If you haven’t listened to “ A Seat at the Table” please do yourself a favor and get some culture in your life. Let Solo lead you down a path of blackness, magic, and pure imagination.
Culture Clash: Are Southerns and Northerners Really That Different?
by Emery W.
“I didn’t know people could say the word ‘y’all’ so much!”
Back in 2011, my roommate was a guy straight out of Racine, Wisconsin, and the one thing that each of us hated about the other was the way we pronounced words. I was unfortunate enough to mispronounce his hometown as Ray-seen instead of Ruh-seen, and he threw a fit. I can almost hear his exact words now, “Why is it that all Southerners feel the need to give all vowels the long sound? It sounds ridiculous.”
First off, I found his outburst to be extremely rude, and condescending (a trait lots of our mutual friends hated about him). I didn’t know that he wasn’t being rude. He was just being a Northerner.
I’m a born and raised Texan; I’m southern through-and-through, but not country. There is a difference. I’d only been to the north once in my life, and I only spent a few days there, but everywhere I turned someone was saying, “Oh wow! I didn’t know people could say the word ‘y’all’ so much!” or “Sorry, we only have Mr. Pibb.” I was so homesick after the first night, I wanted to cry.
I got home, and it dawned on me that even though we all live in the same country, our lifestyles are completely different. I decided to ask a couple of friends to help me out with a little questionnaire to help me prove if Northerners and Southerners are as different as I think they are.
A short disclaimer; as always these opinions are those of the individuals. Not all Northern and Southern women think the way these two women happen to think. As always, the On the Edge inbox is open, and available for questions, comments, and feedback.
Representing the south is our very own Editor-in-Chief, Kirsten. She currently lives in Georgia.
For the north, my good friend Amanda who lives in New Jersey, will be giving us her opinion.
What do you put on a sandwich with peanut butter (besides jelly)?
Amanda: Um, sometimes I’ll do peanut butter and fluff, or Nutella. But it’s not a regular thing. PB&J is still the standard.
Kirsten: Honey! Nothing beats a PB + honey sandwich!
What’s your go-to “going-out” outfit?
A: Jeans and a cute top.
K: Tights/leggings, plaid button down, boots OR skirt, top, tights and boots!
What’s your favorite sport?
A: To play, soccer. To watch, football
K: College football. GO DAWGS!
How do you like your tea?
A: I use cream and sugar in my tea. Specifically, French vanilla creamer.
K: I actually hate sweet tea, but I love hot tea!
What do you call a carbonated beverage?
A: Soda
K: Coke
What’s a Southern stereotype you hear all of the time?
A: That they’re all friendly, and stuck in the past
K’s response: - It’s a fake nice in some cases. Like, we’re polite but at the same time we can be evil as hell. I believe that there are parts of southern history that need to go away (I.e. Racism, classism, tea parties). However, there are parts of Southern tradition that are wonderful. Like being kind to your neighbors, having Sunday family dinner and just knowing how to have a good time at a football game!
What’s a Northern stereotype you hear all of the time?
K: That they’re all rude as hell.
A’s response: Not in general, no. But obviously it varies by place. Like New Yorkers are rude. But people from Medford Lakes aren’t. Also, in comparison to southerners, we all look rude. But things are also slower paced in the south. So while you guys may have the chance to catch up with the guy at your local shop in the mornings, we don’t. And if we try to, it messes up the pace for everyone else. Everything is subjective.
So sure, the stereotype is that all Southerners love sweet tea, and live for the football game that follows Sunday dinner at Big Mama’s house, but that doesn’t mean it’s true. Not any more than the rumor that Northern women dress in leggings and watch hockey is true. Our roots, and where we’re from plays a major role in who we become as people, but doesn’t distinguish all of our interests and tastes. My best friend loves George Strait and hockey whereas Country music makes me cringe, and football season is my favorite thing about Fall. Yeah we were both raised in the same city in Texas, but a lot of the time, we don’t like the same things.
So the answer to this Culture Clash is yes, Southerners and Northerners are different; we prepare for the changing of the seasons differently, and have our respective major convenient store chains (Buc-cees, meet Wa Wa. Your Northern counterpart), but at the end of the day, we’re all American, and I believe that’s something we all enjoy having in common.
Book Review: Crank
by Emery W.
When I was in high school, I had a best friend who (after being wrongfully sent to the town’s alternative high school during Junior year) started living her life in a downward spiral. She finally transferred back to our school, but I barely recognized who she was; she was high on marijuana most of the time, cut class, and went to raves every weekend. She’d quit doing color guard, and dropped out of honor’s classes.
Before I knew it, it was the night of our graduation, and I’d be going off to college at the end of the summer, and I had no idea what my best friend was doing.
The Fall of my freshman year at college, I picked up a thick book with an interesting cover simply titled Crank for the long bus trip to an away game. From the moment I opened the book, I felt like I was reading my best friend’s life from her eyes.
Crank by Ellen Hopkins tells the story of Kristina (who later begins referring to herself as Bree), and the events that led to her long and faithful history with hard drugs, sex, and journey to adulthood. The novel is loosely based on the life of Hopkins’ own daughter’s battle with drug addiction.
We begin the story with Kristina living in Reno with her mother, stepfather, and younger brother until she decides to visit her dead-beat father in Albuquerque. As a straight A honor roll student, Kristina didn’t delve much into the harder side of life; boys, sex, drinking, drugs, etc. Until she met Adam.
Over the span of her time with her father, Kristina (now known as Bree) becomes addicted to the same lifestyle she shares with her father.
I don’t want to give too much away, but I will tell you that this is one that I couldn’t put down. It put into perspective the thought processes of an addict, and why they do what they do, and what makes it so hard for them to stop.
The way Hopkins develops the character is unique in its own right because it is written in verse. I was confused a bit at first because I’d never read a novel in the style, but it made me yearn for more. Even though it’s a thick book, it didn’t take me long to read. I’d describe it as an absolute page-turner.
What’s great is that the book offers you the chance to both pity Kristina for her actions while simultaneously hate her for the destruction she brings to everyone important to her.
It’s classified as a YA novel, but definitely not a read for anyone who can’t handle vivid descriptions of sex, drugs, and some violence.
Ellen Hopkins has somehow managed to write a book that would make for an incredible film adaptation in the future. And this is only the first one! There are two sequels, Glass and Fallout that I urge everyone to read. If you can handle it. I’ve read quite a few of her YA novels (all which were written in verse), and continue to look forward to more. I’d rate this a solid 10/10.
3 Cheap Activities for a Fun Weekend
by Emery W.
Itching for a fun-filled weekend, but don’t have the money to club/bar hop? Try these three activities for a good time, each day of the weekend.
Some people crave that feeling of dressing up, and spending a night out on the town after a long work week. Others, myself included, prefer the sanctity of a quiet home life with the occasional need to have a social life. Whether you’re the latter or a social butterfly, there are countless things to do when you want to have some fun with other people other than movie nights and house parties. All without breaking your bank account.
One of the greatest gifts of living anywhere is the availability of places to have fun without spending a ton of money while simultaneously having a good time with the people you choose to surround yourself with. You can spend your whole weekend out without really feeling like you’re making an effort to put yourself out there.
Live Music Friday
“If you get lucky, you may get to see the next big band…”
No matter where you live, there will be someone; solo artist or band who’s trying to get their music out to the masses. Small town or big city, look for local musicians to support.
One of my favorite things to do with my friends on a Friday night instead of hitting up the bar and drinking, is going to watch my boyfriend’s band play a show. Not only is it a way to hear some really great music while hanging out with friends, it’s also a great way to meet new people. If you don’t know anyone personally who’s into music, then ask a friend, or even go to your city’s website. Most times, there are events posted on the website to get people to experience the town’s social atmosphere.
If you get lucky, you may get to see the next big band, and be able to say, “I saw this band/musician live beforethey blew up.” Plus, if the music’s great, and the crowd is good, there’s always a chance to meet someone with similar interests as you. Bam! Instant friendship.
Cost: $ - Find a band that’s playing at a location that doesn’t have a cover charge. Just be sure to tip the band if you enjoy the music. Starving artists are a real thing.
Karaoke Saturday
Let me just put this out there; I am a karaoke FIEND. I used to be too scared to go up on stage and belt one out, but now it’s the best stress relief I could ever ask for. Trust me, everything you see in the movies about karaoke night is true.
Singing in front of a crowd of people isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but watching other people participate can be just as fun. There are two kinds of karaoke singers; the amazing ones who would undoubtedly get a three chair turn on The Voice, and the not-so-great people who may be tone deaf, but look like they’re having the time of their lives, and chances are, they are. Who, knows a couple of cheap beers at your local karaoke dive bar, and you could be on stage imagining yourself as the next Queen Bey.
So, the next time you feel like going out, and the club scene isn’t really your thing, look for the nearest karaoke bar where participation isn’t mandatory, but highly encouraged.
Cost: $$ - Some places require a drink minimum to sing, or if you’re not singing, you may want to have a drink or two while you watch others. My tip: find a dive bar. The drinks are usually cheaply priced, and have a good, down-to-earth crowd.
Sunday Brunch
“Turn it into an outing with friends to spend some last minute time together before the long work week begins.”
The best way to end a fun-filled weekend is to enjoy a nice brunch with some friends. Sunday is the day of rest, and brunch falls during the perfect time of the day; early enough to still sleep in, but not too late where you feel like you’ve wasted your day.
It’s not necessary to dress up for brunch, and if you choose to eat outdoors on a beautiful day, it gives you an excuse to wear a cute pair of shades to cover the hangover look some will surely be sporting. Turn it into an outing with friends to spend some last minute time together before the long work week begins. Order a Bloody Mary, and eat some food that’s just heavy enough to be considered a meal without ruining your appetite before family dinner or game day wings.
Cost: $$ - It all depends on you and what you order.
Weekends, if planned correctly, are the perfect time to let loose and have fun, and these three activities are perfect for everyone; introvert or extrovert. If that’s the what you want to do. A nice, quiet night at home is always an option too.
An Open Letter to Augustus Waters.
by Kirsten F.
Dear Augustus,
Yes, you Augustus Waters… I am writing an open letter to you. Yes you, the fictional character, the young man who I assumed to be a figment of my wandering imagination while reading “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green. I am writing this open letter because I have many questions for you.
So many things went through my mind reading this well written piece of literature. However, tonight when I saw this book take life upon the big screen, more questions came to mind. You see I am a creature of wonder, not habit. I want to know everything that I possibly can about everyone. Including those who do not actually exist, I am what some would call a “mess”. I read books, and I fall in love with a particular character(s) or the story as a whole. Well in this case it is both; I fell in love with the story, and well with you.
The moment you walked into Hazel Grace’s life I knew you would be good. I knew that you would bring her some form of adventure, and new experiences.
How did you know that the moment you bumped into her (in the literal heart of Jesus) that she was someone you wanted to know? That this beautiful young woman, with the tubes in her nose, and the oxygen tank stuffed backpack was going to change your life. You sat and looked at her, and I mean really looked at her. You saw passed her obvious signs of illness, and you just saw her. That my dear Augustus is so breathtakingly beautiful, it’s as if you were falling in love at first sight.
Now I have never been a believer in such a myth, love at first sight has always seemed a bit skeptical to me. How the hell does someone fall in love with another human they have yet to actually get to know? Is it their outer appearance? They way they walk? How they move their mouth when they speak? Maybe it’s the look in their eyes… I don’t know, but what I do know is that you have made a believer out of me.
Now yes I know, “It’s just a story, it isn’t real”, but isn’t it though? Isn’t there some parallel universe where you and Hazel exist? You are alive and well in the mind of the author, and every single person that read the book.
I know what you’re thinking, “I died in that book. My story ended.” I don’t think it did though, I think that was just the beginning of your story. I know that initially the story was meant to be about Hazel Grace and her take on life, and thoughts about the world. I however, believe that the story was about you. How you came into her life at its unintentional plateau and moved it along. I can’t tell you what exactly it was that I felt when you came into the picture, relief, excitement, or maybe it was just my classic case of curiosity. Who is this guy? What is his story? How did he end up at this place, and why the heck is he so fascinated by her?
As the story went on though, I got the answer to those questions, but then more formed from those answers. What made you decide to go with Isaac to the group that day? What made you decide that Hazel was going to be the one that you fell in love with? How did you become so happy, and how is it that even when you are knowingly dying you can still find the time to live?
I have a fear Augustus, a fear that I am never going to live the life I want. That I am never going to experience every piece of life that I know I was destined for. So tell me, how or when did you decide that “living” is what you were going to do? Was it when you thought you were going to die the first time the reason? Or maybe you’ve always been that way… Alive.
It would seem as if I am demanding answers from you, almost how you and Hazel demanded answers from your “favorite” author. I’m not though, I’m just merely curious, and slightly hoping that while writing this letter I find the answers myself.
As I read and reread your story (a good seven times in fact) trying to find those answers I was looking for I kept coming up empty handed. It wasn’t until I watched your story play out in front of me that I finally began to understand. You see you taught Hazel that life is more than what it’s believed to be. Augustus you showed her how to live, and be spontaneous … Be free.
Even in your last days you managed to make even the most complicated life event such as death seem like a piece of cake. You made love and loving someone else not seem so terrifying, and effortless. I think about that every day, and sure I do love people mostly friends and family members. However I wonder every single day how I could love another person the way that you loved Hazel, or how many people love their particular significant others. I am realistically terrified of such a feeling of letting someone in enough to shake my life.
I don’t like the feeling of letting others get to close to my heart, because although I am the “tough and secure one” I am absolutely terrified of having my heart broken. There was something you said to Hazel when she told you that she was a ticking time bomb, and didn’t want to hurt you. You told her that it would be a privilege to have your heart broken by her.
When I first read this story I couldn’t believe you would say such a thing. You were willing giving this individual the power to do whatever it is to your heart, your soul. I couldn’t comprehend it then, and it drove me insane because I didn’t understand. It wasn’t until this very moment as I write this that I get it, I get why you would give her so much power. Because you loved her, you loved her more than anything. THAT Augustus is what broke my heart in a very poetic and beautiful way. You loved Hazel Grace so much that it didn’t matter if she broke your heart, held it close, or put it in a blinder. All of that didn’t matter, because all you wanted was to be loved by her, and so you were.
I realized that when you love someone as much as you cared for Hazel that even if that person breaks your heart or in your case dies. All that matters is that you loved them, and they loved you. The only thing that is important is that you got to feel that, and THEN I realized that I have felt that, I have felt what it is like to love someone so fiercely and unconditionally. Even though it ended in a tragic and mind altering heart break I felt it. I couldn’t make sense of it then I didn’t understand that even though my heart was broken and my head was in a scary place. I felt love, and I realized that in the end that is all that matters. The feeling of being in love and living in that moment, that is what it’s all about. It’s about going through the rough patches and fun times just too either end up apart or together. It’s a risk; you helped me gain some clarity on that.
On knowing that just by giving someone the option to break your heart is an adventure in itself. It is in fact the ultimate adventure in life, and if you have the opportunity to experience it you should go for it.
My dear fictional Augustus, you have done more than you could imagine. All you wanted out of this life was to be remembered and you’ve done more than just that. You’ve made an impression on millions of people. People just like you, some not, and those of us who are somewhere in between. You may have died young, but you lived a thousand lives, and for that I can’t say thank you enough. I will take the words you said, and the way you made me feel with me forever. See that’s the thing about books, fictional and non fictional they will always leave some form of impression on you. Good or bad, they leave a little piece of themselves with you.
Thank you for giving me a piece of you.
Okay and Always, and everything thing in between
Book Review: 'Grayish-Black: Poetry From The Ribs'.
by Kirsten F.
How a book about oppression, suicide, self loathing, + heartbreak taught me how to love myself a little more.
I met the author of “Grayish-Black” back when I had big earrings and long braids. Back when my mouth was slick and my fists fast and powerful in punch. Elijah and I clicked from the start, we found common ground in each other’s worlds, because the views weren’t so different. I got the privilege to be a test reader for his new book “Grayish-Black” which I suggest you all stop reading this, and go buy instantly! This person who prides himself on his multiple ethnicities, taste in music, and has an exceptional record in fighting for the injustices of the world. Has allowed us, the outside into his space; his mind. For as long as I have known him he has marched to the beat of his own drum, pounding out a tune that only those who are hip to his frequency can hear.
“Grayish-Black” isn’t just a book of poems and beautiful photos, it is a piece of someone, and simultaneously a piece of yourself as well. There are some pieces such as “Black Bottle of Cologne” that caused the usual feeling of melancholy that sits deep within crawl up from it’s spot in my chest. Springer used lines like “2 years later and I still buy the same body wash you loved, and I still spray my neck with that scent that made you kiss me.” He talks about the feeling of missing someone in such an honest way. He does not sugar coat the fact that though it has been two years, he is still hurting. That moving on from heartbreak often takes longer than a couple of months, it can often take years to start putting it behind you.
Elijah talks about his struggle with being accepted by both sides of his genetic codes. The “grey area” as he referred to it, stuck out to me because I too had felt lost in the shuffle of worlds of black and white. That’s what I meant by you will find a piece of yourself in his truth, the words he uses paint a mental picture of past versions of myself in my mind. As if they were all stood in a circle holding onto each other as they release their souls into the sea. The lines of “You Loved Me Natural” sunk so deep into my own bones that it caused me to cry. I am a person who chooses not to acknowledge love and all that it brings. “Never fake a smile for me” broke me down, because it caused me to make myself think about a person who has never been present in my life, because I’ve yet to meet them. It’s like Elijah knows that all any of us want, especially those of us with a tormented soul is someone to be okay with just us. He has written a world that has its own pulse, the pages are alive and flowing freely. The words and images used will cause your mind to race, your heart to ache, and your inner warrior to rise from its resting place.
While I read each page and saw my reflection in each photo, I found myself having a conversation with my own demons. In between reading about the take down of the oppressing forces at large, and talks of relationships that had died. I ended up making peace with those demons that lurk in the shadows of my soul. Instead of fearing them, and letting them hold me back they have began to inspire me to be the best version of myself. Springer makes human existence almost seem easy even when it is the most complicated equation.
“2 years later and I still buy the same body wash you loved, and I still spray my neck with that scent that made you kiss me.”
He uses his words to teach us that we can learn from those who have taken from us, those who have broken off pieces of our spirit, and from ourselves. He talks about sexuality as smoothly as a stream in a forest. He transitions from talking to himself to talking to a distant ex lover, to talking right to those who hold power positions. In “Grayish-Black” Elijah doesn’t shy away from topics like loving a man who fell out of love with you, wanting to know what death felt like, and slowly disappearing into your own realm. He uses his platform to pay respect to the countless bodies of black folks who lay dead at the hands of the government. He acknowledges legends like Malcolm X and Ella Baker, who selflessly fought for our freedom. He speaks on the different shades of brown and black that grew up in his neighborhood. I’m convinced that if you put a beat behind the words of “My Hood ain’t Free” you’d have a chart topper. He praises Allah for the physical attributes that comes from blackness; the curve of the hips, the thickness of the lips…. He showcases the beauty that comes with the territory.
Throughout this book of poems and self manifestos Springer also let’s us know that we too can be the cause of someone else’s pain. We can be the one who pulls the strings and cuts each one slowly or all at once. We are the commanders of our fates, and the approval percentage of others will forever remain at zero, because who you are is meant specifically for you alone. Elijah uses the feelings of happiness, sadness, longing, fear, and failure to create a world of a person that we can all connect to. He shows us that the valleys and mountains that live within us are full of pieces of who we are. Whether that be someone sunk down into a tub, someone watching the one they’ve loved for so long leave, or someone who is standing on the front line fighting for their freedom. Our insides, our spirit make up a complete masterpiece of a human, and we choose what parts of our paintings we want to share. I loved “Grayish - Black” because it is me, and it is you. It’s a self loathing, self accepting, and self caring book about learning to love your parts, even the ones that make you want to die slowly until you disappear into nothing.
You can purchase Elijah’s book “Grayish - Black” on Amazon! // Link
Follow Elijah on his social media platforms
Website// urbansoulatlanta.com
Twitter// @ halfatlanta
Tumblr// @feelingsandwhatnot
A Generation of Mean Teen Queens
by Emery W.
Every generation is blessed with a movie centered around a high school clique of popular girls that rule the school. The ‘80’s babies got Heathers, us ‘90’s kids were deemed worthy enough to have Clueless, the early 2000′s had Mean Girls, and this current generation has The DUFF.
When I first got wave of the movie before it came out, I looked at the cast list, and immediately brushed it off as pointless, and unworthy of my time. Boy, was I wrong. I finally got bored enough one Sunday night while twisting my hair, and decided to watch it, and I was not disappointed.
It has your general makeup of the underdog, the mean bitch, and the boy that both girls inevitably want, but what makes this one relevant for today is not only the language (yes, I am condoning the use of profanity in the film), the use of social media, and *spoiler alert* the guy gets the girl in the end, but you don’t see it coming from the beginning.
Mae Whitman plays Bianca, her two best friends’ DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend), and let’s get one thing straight, Bianca is none of those things unless you compare her to her friends Jess and Casey (Skyler Samuels and Bianca Santos respectively). Both friends are completely unaware that they have placed their friend in this category. In fact, the theme of the whole movie is how a DUFF never realizes they are one.
School stud and (shocker) captain of the football team, Wesley Rush (portrayed by Robby Amell) is the boy next door/former childhood friend who informs Bianca of her role as The DUFF, and agrees to help her break this image, and get the guy she has been crushing on for a while in exchange for some tutoring. Of course a string of mishaps and drama courtesy of resident Head Bitch/Wesley Rush’s on-again-off-again girlfriend, Madison Morgan (Bella Thorne).
Pretty typical stuff for a movie geared toward high school kids. What really makes this movie is the acting chops of young Hollywood thespians you wouldn’t expect. I’d always seen Bella Thorne as the ditzy character she played in Disney Channel’s Shake It Up, and while Madison is superficial and devious, she is true current-day mean girl, equipped with her own side kick, and largely followed social media platform. Bella Thorne does an immaculate job with the character, and while she’s no Regina George, she’s a pretty close second.
The next shocker of the movie is Robby Amell. I’m not going to lie, I knew I’d seen him in other things before as the cute guy that the girl falls for, but never a memorable performance. Until this one. I guess the 25-year-old in me wasn’t expecting the array of penis jokes, and all-around sexualization of the character, but I guess if I have to grow up, actors do too.
Mae Whitman’s Bianca is a mix of Ellen Page’s Juno, and Emma Stone’s Olive of Easy A, and she is every high school awkward kid’s spirit animal. Her come-to-Jesus moment, courtesy of her two best friends, and mostly unavailable mother played by Allison Janney. Add in the teacher that’s rooting for the underdog (Ken Jeong), and you have Mean Girls revamped without anyone getting hit by a bus, and instead of a Burn Book, you’ve got YouTube.
So who knows, maybe I’m biased because I went through puberty, and even still rely on Mean Girls to guide me through the rough times, and finding something that can almost match up to what has now become a cult classic makes me really excited. `
What Makes 'Hamilton' the Best Musical for Our Generation.
by Emery C.
“I mean come on, Angelica Schuyler going toe-to-toe with Nicki Minaj? Thomas Jefferson dropping bars like Slim Shady? “
I’m a ‘90’s kid which, in my opinion, is hands-down, the best decade to have had your childhood. We are the up-and-comers; the future leaders of our nation and the world. So, among all of the drama and struggle that the world is going through, there’s one thing that brings us together: music.
Over the past month I have been unapologetically obsessed with ‘Hamilton: An American Musical’ written by none other than the eloquent Lin-Manuel Miranda. Don’t believe me? Watch his acceptance speech from the 2016 Tony Awards.
I have never been a major history buff. In fact, I had to repeat U.S. History in high school. So how did a Broadway musical drive me to learn the history behind the American Revolution, and inspire my now in-progress historical fiction novel about America’s first great sex scandal (ahem, The Reynolds Pamphlet)? The music.
“We are the up-and-comers; the future leaders of our nation and the world. “
‘Hamilton’ tells the story of America’s first Secretary Treasury, Alexander Hamilton. The intro tune alone tells his childhood history as an orphan raised in the Caribbean, and his journey to New York. From then on, each song pans out his life; meeting his “frienemy” Aaron Burr, his battle buddies, becoming George Washington’s confidant, meeting his wife, making his way into politics, and eventually his death. I don’t want to give too much away, but you can stream the Original Cast Album on Spotify for the full effect.
Lin-Manuel Miranda was somehow capable of capturing this history lesson in Hip-Hop and R&B music perfectly. Even if you’re not a fan of rap music, it’s more than just grown men and women spitting rhymes. There’s emotion, heart, and soul throughout every song. It’s unlike any musical you’ve ever heard before. I didn’t grow up in a family that appreciated the theater, but being in fine arts programs throughout high school and college opened up my eyes to a world of storytelling I didn’t know existed. For those people out there who aren’t immersed in the arts like I am, ‘Hamilton’ is still an experience that will change your life.
Even if you’re one of the poor unfortunate souls like me who can’t make it out to a Broadway show, the soundtrack is good enough. Lucky for us, PBS will be airing a recorded version with the original cast this fall. There will even be a mix-tape of the musical released. A mix tape! What other musical have you heard of can successfully do that?!
“There’s emotion, heart, and soul throughout every song. “
Another perk of this great cast and ensemble is that a majority of its members are people of color. Yes, imagine the founding of our country being placed in the hands of Latinos, African-Americans, and people of mixed race. It’s glorious. I mean come on, Angelica Schuyler going toe-to-toe with Nicki Minaj? Thomas Jefferson dropping bars like Slim Shady? That alone should make you want to listen, and after, you’re going to want to read up on details of people you may have never even heard of (someone get me an #AndPeggy beanie immediately).
Yes, Les Miserable, Rent, Chicago, The Color Purple, Dream Girls, etc. are some of my favorite soundtracks to listen to. They all tell incredible stories surrounding the lives of impeccable characters who teach us valuable lessons, but not many of them take the facts of our nation’s history, and apply them into terms that our generation uses and understands. Not to mention it applies to everything that is happening in our world today.
If you haven’t yet, listen to this soundtrack and absorb its information. Stream it, download it, YouTube it, whatever you need to do to get this cultural experience. Allow yourself to listen. That would be enough.
5 Favorite Fall Lip Colors
by Valerie N
The fall season is in full swing and with the cold weather come boots, flannel, scarves, pumpkin spiced everything, and of course… fall lip colors. You’ve got your choice between gloss, satin, or matte finishes. And beyond that, you get to choose your favorite range of shades from nudes, to pinks and reds, to dark stained lips. Wearing different lip colors are my most recent favorite way to finish my makeup look and to express myself. I’ll wear a certain shade all depending on my mood. When it comes to fall time, I usually lean towards darker shades. Keep reading to find out 5 of my favorite fall lip colors!
1. Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in “Fig”
The Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in the shade “Fig” is great for fall. The site describes the shade as “red grape” and I think it’s perfect for more casual days when you’re headed to class or meeting a friend for coffee. Unlike my other favorite fall lip colors, this product is satin-smooth and also works to hydrate your lips. It also contains ingredients such as shea butter, vitamin C, and vitamin E to protect your lips. With this lipstick, you’ll be looking… wait for it… legendary.
2. NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in “Vintage”
The NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in “Vintage” is the absolute perfect vampy shade for fall. NYX’s website describes the shade as “plum with mauve undertone.” I love their Liquid Suede line because the product glides on so easily and stays put for a long time. I can go a whole night without having to re-apply. The only thing about the “Vintage” shade is that it’s so dark but sheer, you have to apply a few layers or else it’ll look blotchy.
3. NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in “Soft-Spoken”
Another one of my favorite shades from the NYX Liquid Suede collection is “Soft-Spoken.” The shade is described as a mauve nude and it’s perfect for all seasons. I’ve worn it throughout the summer and plan on wearing it well into the wintertime. I’ve gotten so many compliments while wearing this color and will continue to use it until I run out… or find a new favorite shade.
4. ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in “Tulle”
If you can’t tell by now, mauve nudes are my favorite lip shades. Another mauve nude that’s my favorite is the ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in “Tulle.” Tulle is described as a dusty mauve burgundy. It definitely looks like I have wine stained lips when I wear this shade. And there’s definitely nothing wrong with that.
5. ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in “Love Bug”
ColourPop’s Ultra Matte Lip products have easily and quickly replaced NYX lip products as my favorite. They’re cheap, easy to apply, long-lasting, and the perfect dupes for the Kylie Cosmetics Matte Lip Kits because they’re basically the exact same formula. Another ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip shade I’ve been wearing a lot lately is “Love Bug.” Unlike the other berries and mauves I’ve mentioned, this shade is more of a rich terracotta and I think it looks great on my warm toned skin. This is another shade I can see myself wearing during both winter and summer times.
What are some of your favorite lip shades for fall? Let us know! Don’t forget to follow us on social media for more updates.
Product Review: Rimmel London's Kate Sculpting Palette
by Valerie N.
Hi everyone! Rimmel London recently released their very first sculpting and highlighting kit designed by the one and only Kate Moss. I was roaming around the makeup aisles at Target awhile ago when I saw this contour kit on sale. Rimmel’s Natural Bronzer is one of my absolute favorites so naturally, I had to give this sculpting palette a try. It’s available in three different shades – golden sands, coral glow, and golden bronze. I got the kit in the shade “coral glow” and if you want to find out more about this product, keep reading!
Rimmel London’s Kate Sculpting Palette
According to Rimmel’s website, the Kate Sculpting Palette is “Rimmel’s first sculpting & highlighting kit designed by Kate Moss.” First, you use the “shading powder to contour the sides of the nose, jawline, and forehead.” Then use the “powder blush for contour and definition.” Lastly, you use the “soft shimmer powder to highlight the cheekbone, brow bone, center of the chin, and bridge of the nose.”
Before Contouring
After Contouring
by Valerie N. (Twitter || @avec_valerie)
Hi everyone! Rimmel London recently released their very first sculpting and highlighting kit designed by the one and only Kate Moss. I was roaming around the makeup aisles at Target awhile ago when I saw this contour kit on sale. Rimmel’s Natural Bronzer is one of my absolute favorites so naturally, I had to give this sculpting palette a try. It’s available in three different shades – golden sands, coral glow, and golden bronze. I got the kit in the shade “coral glow” and if you want to find out more about this product, keep reading!
Rimmel London’s Kate Sculpting Palette
According to Rimmel’s website, the Kate Sculpting Palette is “Rimmel’s first sculpting & highlighting kit designed by Kate Moss.” First, you use the “shading powder to contour the sides of the nose, jawline, and forehead.” Then use the “powder blush for contour and definition.” Lastly, you use the “soft shimmer powder to highlight the cheekbone, brow bone, center of the chin, and bridge of the nose.”
Before Contouring
After Contouring
The lighting isn’t the best and I was having a bad skin day (due to PMS) but I hope you can see the slight difference. My cheekbones are a little more defined and have some color to them. But trust me, it’s more noticeable in better lighting and in real life!
Pros
- $6.49 plus tax at Target
- soft and velvety texture
- good pigmentation
- different shades to choose from
- 3-in-1 kit – you get bronzer, blush, and highlighter without having to buy them separately!
- subtle but still noticeable
- easy to blend
- perfect for everyday wear
- back of the kit shows you how and where to contour/highlight
Cons
- kit does not include a mirror (which would be nice but isn’t a deal breaker for me)
- highlighter isn’t as noticeable as others
Final Verdict
Honestly, there aren’t too many cons about this sculpting kit. Overall, I’m very satisfied with this affordable drugstore contouring palette. It has a nice feel, it’s lightweight, and it does the job well. If you’re a beginner looking for a contour kit to start with, definitely give the Kate Sculpting Palette a try! And if you liked this post, stick around. Maybe I’ll teach you how to contour/highlight next time!
What products do you use to contour/highlight? Let us know! Don’t forget to follow us on social media for more updates.
7 Ways To Get Optimal Beauty Sleep.
by Val N.
Daylight Saving Time ends this coming Sunday so don’t forget to set your clocks back an hour! But more importantly, we all get an extra hour of sleep. I know I’m excited! Especially when you’re constantly keeping busy with work, school, and a social life, it can be difficult to get the right amount of sleep every night. But I’ve found some tricks that help me get a good night’s sleep. Here are 7 ways to get optimal beauty sleep.
1. Set a Sleep Schedule
Setting a sleep schedule may seem childish but it will definitely help you sleep better. Try to get daily activities, like packing your lunch or planning tomorrow’s outfit, out of the way before your bedtime. Then try to wake up at the same time every morning, even on weekends. That way, your body and sleep cycle are in sync. Try to do this for a few weeks and your body will get used to waking up at the same time every day.
2. No Caffeine After 5PM
I am a bonafide caffeine addict. I’ve said this many times before and I’ll say it again because it’s true – my day hasn’t truly started until I’ve had my first cup of coffee. But over the years, I’ve found caffeine to be the reason why I can’t sleep at night. Whether I’m sipping on soda, coffee, or tea, I force myself not to drink any after 5pm. That’s my cutoff time. Or else I’ll be wired and can’t sleep at night. It’s all about self-control and I believe this is one of the reasons why so many people, like myself, are addicted and dependent on caffeine.
3. Work Out
A lot of times when I come home from work, I’m so tempted to change into my pj’s and take a very long nap. Then I realized napping took away time from being productive and getting things done during the day. I’d always wake up feeling more tired and I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night. So now instead of taking a nap, I go to the gym for 45 minutes to an hour. Even if I’m tired, I force myself to go because I know I’ll leave the gym feeling much more energized. Not to mention, working out releases endorphins, which relieve stress, and makes it easier to fall asleep at night.
4. Take a Hot Shower or Bath.
Some people like to shower when they wake up in the morning but I like to do it before bedtime. I do it because I like going to bed feeling fresh and clean. Taking a hot shower also helps me relax and calm my nerves, making it easier to fall asleep.
5. Use Lavender Oil
Another thing that helps me calm my nerves and sleep at night is lavender oil. I have a small bottle of essential lavender oil, which I rub on my wrists and the soles of my feet. I can instantly feel myself relaxing and getting ready to fall asleep. You can also leave drops of lavender oil on your sheets and pillow case to optimize your beauty sleep. Drops of lavender oil can also be added to your bath or shower to help you relax.
6. Drink a Glass of Water Before and After Sleeping
I don’t like going to bed with an empty stomach. But I also don’t like to snack before bed. So I drink a glass of water before going to sleep. I purposely do this so I wake up with a full bladder and have to get out of bed. It may sound funny but it’s one of my secrets. And it works better than setting multiple alarms just minutes apart from each other. I also drink a glass of water when I wake up to get my metabolism going. It also helps me be more alert and energized in the morning.
7. No Electronics Before Bedtime
This is probably the most important factor for optimal beauty sleep but so many people, including myself, fail to go through with it. With so many social media apps and games to play, it’s hard to put your phone down before bed. But in order to get a good night’s sleep, it’s absolutely essential to shut off all electronics – your phone, laptop, tablet, tv – at least an hour before going to bed. It’s because these electronics emit a blue light, which mimics sun light, and tricks your brain into thinking it’s day time. To trick your brain into thinking it’s bedtime, just shut your electronics off. Instead, opt for journaling, meditating, or reading an actual book before bed.
Those are some of the tricks I’ve used to get optimal beauty sleep! What are some of your tips for getting a good night’s sleep? And don’t forget to set your clocks back an hour on Sunday!
4 Halloween Makeup Looks To Try.
by Val N.
DIY, and make it fun!
October is quickly coming to an end and it’s almost that time of year again! Halloween is just around the corner and if you’re anything like me, you’re still scrambling to come up with a costume idea. We all know there’s gonna be multiple Harley Quinn’s and Minnie Mouses this Halloween. Why not go for something different so you can stand out in the crowd? And get tons of flattering compliments while you’re flaunting your look.
Not even gonna lie, I’ve been Minnie Mouse before. I’ve also been a sailor and an army girl. And we all know Halloween costumes can get very pricy. So this year, I’m trying to spend as little money on my costume as I possibly can. Plus, I want to play around with makeup so I’ve decided to do a Halloween look where I can do just that. Although I haven’t exactly decided what I want to do, I went to Pinterest for some ideas. Here are 4 Halloween makeup looks and tutorials you and I can pull off!
1. Zombie
Okay, I’ve been obsessed with The Walking Dead. Rather than going for a sexy costume this Halloween, why not switch it up with something scary like a zombie? I’m sure you’ll be getting compliments on your makeup skills all night.
2. Deer/Fawn
The deer/fawn makeup look was a huge hit for Halloween last year. So huge, it’s been overdone but I still want to try this look. I found a bunch of tutorials but really liked this one by From Head to Toe because of the cute headband she also created.
3. Cat
This one is just as cute and simple as the fawn look. I’ve been a cat before but never went past the cat eyes. This tutorial by Lavenda’s Closet also shows you how to do the lips and whiskers. Plus, she also has a super cute headband!
4. Snapchat Filter
I was actually joking about going as a Snapchat filter but look what I found! A page for not one, but four, Snapchat filter makeup tutorials. The puking rainbows filter is a classic but I was thinking about going as the dog filter. Check out all four tutorials on eHow!