mamaluv
Member Since: September 8, 2006Reviews
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
I have mixed feelings about this book. I wanted to read it after all the hype, and as usual, this book (like many others) did not live up to it. By a really big margin. Having said that, I thought the plot was original and I was drawn in for the... +
I have mixed feelings about this book. I wanted to read it after all the hype, and as usual, this book (like many others) did not live up to it. By a really big margin.
Having said that, I thought the plot was original and I was drawn in for the first half or so. It's a refreshing take on the dark vampiric world and I think there was tons of potential for a really gripping story here. Sadly, the potential was not harnessed.
Bella is a swooning 1950s throwback who seems to have little identity of her own, a classic people pleaser and follower with no purpose in life. Edward is unrealistically written as a quasi stalker type with perfect restraint. To be honest, I found most of the supporting cast to be much more believable than these two.
The writing style is simple, which is great for teen readers, but below adult standards. This book with a major literary makeover would be stunning. Just not feeling it the way it's presented; I only finished it because of my inability to stop in the middle (I must read every book to the end, unless it's truly abysmal).
First let go of your expectations, then pick this book up. Ignoring the hoopla will probably make it more fun for you. I checked it out from the library instead of buying it, so take it for a test drive before you commit to the box set.
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Ebay
I buy on eBay all the time. You truly can find anything, even store coupons (which is silly to spend on, but if it saves you money??). Best for designer and vintage duds that are hard/expensive to track down!
I buy on eBay all the time. You truly can find anything, even store coupons (which is silly to spend on, but if it saves you money??). Best for designer and vintage duds that are hard/expensive to track down! -
Buff Natural Nail Bar
I just came back from an indulgent pedicure at Buff. This little gem is tucked into the Village At North Elm shopping complex - blink and you'd miss this cozy nail bar dedicated to natural nails and locally made mineral makeup. My friend and I... +
I just came back from an indulgent pedicure at Buff. This little gem is tucked into the Village At North Elm shopping complex - blink and you'd miss this cozy nail bar dedicated to natural nails and locally made mineral makeup.
My friend and I were tucked into side-by-side pedicure stations complete with warmed neck wraps. Our nail techs were friendly and professional and the ambiance was casually chic. They offer a full range of natural nail services with competitive pricing.
Highly recommended!
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Quantum of Solace
**Spoiler alert** Minor plot details included... Well, Daniel Craig is in fine form once again - all the sexy Bond, none of the ridiculous innuendo that earlier scripts (pre-Craig) were plagued with. As a sequel to Casino Royale, this is a great... +
**Spoiler alert** Minor plot details included...
Well, Daniel Craig is in fine form once again - all the sexy Bond, none of the ridiculous innuendo that earlier scripts (pre-Craig) were plagued with.
As a sequel to Casino Royale, this is a great follow up - tying up loose ends and introducing new twists that will be appreciated when I watch the two back to back next time.
However, as a standalone movie, this flick does not work. It heavily assumes you are familiar with the first movie, failing to introduce important characters and plot lines (actually, I hate when movies re-introduce, assuming that some viewers didn't see the prequel). I imagine you would be very confused if you see this movie without watching Casino Royale first. As a sequel, it fails to have a substantial plot of its own; it's very much a continuation of what came before.
I loved the character of Strawberry Fields - a nod in looks and name to all the classic Bond kittens. Kurylenko is a fierce Bond Girl like Michelle Yeoh (Tomorrow Never Dies) that *shockingly* Bond doesn't try to bed. I liked that, mostly because it supports the notion that he's still pining for Vesper. His other dalliance plays more like a stress reliever and obligate Bond moment that for me does not detract.
I highly recommend this movie as a sequel to Casino Royale. Otherwise all you'll have out of it are dreams of a shirtless Craig (its own reward, tis true).
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Lise Watier Satellite Bronzing Powder
I received this from Lise Watier to review. I've never used a bronzer before, so I have nothing to compare it to. Still, I was blown away by this product! It has four shades that combine to create a wonderful sun-kissed glow that looks... +
I received this from Lise Watier to review. I've never used a bronzer before, so I have nothing to compare it to. Still, I was blown away by this product!
It has four shades that combine to create a wonderful sun-kissed glow that looks completely natural. The brown shade has discreet sparkles that are so tiny you can only see them when you look very closely. A fantastic alternative to blush for a simple daytime look!
I will definitely buy this product again. Although the price is a little steep, it is worth it! Love love love it.
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ROC CompleteLift Eye Lift Pen for eyelids and bags
I received the Eye Lift Pen from RoC to review, along with the CompleteLift day and night creams (reviewed separately). I was excited about this product, because my beauty problem is eyebags and I'll try anything to get rid of them. You can... +
I received the Eye Lift Pen from RoC to review, along with the CompleteLift day and night creams (reviewed separately).
I was excited about this product, because my beauty problem is eyebags and I'll try anything to get rid of them. You can apply the cream using the lipbalm-like applicator or with a finger; I would recommend using your ring finger instead because you can control the pressure better.
I immediately noticed a tightening sensation as the product dried and it seemed like there was some improvement in my bags. I know, though, that the massaging action of applying the product squeezes out the extra water from the undereye area, so I was looking for something more, something dramatic. I wasn't seeing a huge improvement over my regular brand, so I applied again. However, as it dried, the excess product flaked and looked like peeling skin. Oops.
In general, I think this is a good product. I'm not sold on switching from my current brand, but I'll keep using it to see if extended use makes a difference.
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RoC Complete Lift Daily Moisturizer SPF 30
I received this day moisturizer from RoC to review, along with the night cream and eye lift pen (reviewed separately). I waited for a few weeks to give my opinion, because - as usual - my skin erupted after switching brands. Now that my skin has... +
I received this day moisturizer from RoC to review, along with the night cream and eye lift pen (reviewed separately).
I waited for a few weeks to give my opinion, because - as usual - my skin erupted after switching brands. Now that my skin has cleared, I can safely say I've found a new favorite. It absorbs quickly but hydrates perfectly. I was happy with my old brand, but after comparing I think I'll be switching.
As for the anti-aging properties, I'm a little disappointed. I have just the smallest of crow's feet and such, but after a few weeks of regular use I can't say that I've noticed a big difference. Still, I'm happy to use it as a basic day cream and perhaps with extended use those fine lines will fade.
The product has a strong perfumy scent that I personally like, but for those who are sensitive, this one may not be right for you. I have the regular cream right now, but hope to try the version with spf soon for summer protection.
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RoC Complete Lift Overnight Regenerating Lifting Cream
I received this night cream from ROC to review, along with the day moisturizer and eye lift pen (reviewed separately). I immediately noticed that this night cream was better than anything I'd used before. My skin was hydrated without being... +
I received this night cream from ROC to review, along with the day moisturizer and eye lift pen (reviewed separately).
I immediately noticed that this night cream was better than anything I'd used before. My skin was hydrated without being oily and my pillowcase-imprint wrinkles were less noticeable first thing in the morning. It has a perfumy scent that I like; those who are sensitive may find it a little strong.
As for the anti aging properties, it is difficult for me to fairly say. I'm still in my early 30s and have only the beginnings of crow's feet and such. After 2 weeks of regular use, there has been no substantial difference. I had hoped that because I have such small lines that they would disappear, but it would seem this is wishful thinking. Perhaps with longer use I will know if it's helping.
Having said that, this cream is a big improvement on my previous brand, which made a speedy exit from my countertop to the trash can (I had stopped using it anyway). Considering that the retail price on this product is not much more than my drugstore copout, I would certainly consider buying it again when it runs out. At the very least, it is a wonderful night cream - anti aging or not.
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COVERGIRL WetSlicks AmazeMint
If I would have seen this on the store shelf, I would have rolled my eyes and passed it by. Minty balm - yes. Minty lip gloss? Another story. But I received this to review, and not paying for something is already a pretty great thing. This... +
If I would have seen this on the store shelf, I would have rolled my eyes and passed it by. Minty balm - yes. Minty lip gloss? Another story. But I received this to review, and not paying for something is already a pretty great thing.
This gloss comes in a good range of colors. I have Toast-ed, a brownish shade. I was worried that the dark color would be a bad match for my pale coloring but it was sheer enough that it lent a beautiful bronzy sheen without making me look made up. I really think this particular shade would be flattering on most women, but that's also a matter of taste.
The minty question - this I think is a Love It/Hate It thing. It's strange to smell a hint of Scope mouthwash on your lips; it also tastes like it! It has a wonderful tingle, which again is a personal preference thing and something I would expect from a balm instead of a gloss.
Personally? I love it! I would give it 5/5 stars across the board, but it comes down to my firm opinion that this will not be a hit with everyone.
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The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
Wow! What can I say but echo what other reviewers have mentioned? This story is unique, engrossing, well written, sad and happy - everything a book should be. Perhaps a little predictable, but truly - aren't they all? I was shocked to... +
Wow! What can I say but echo what other reviewers have mentioned?
This story is unique, engrossing, well written, sad and happy - everything a book should be. Perhaps a little predictable, but truly - aren't they all?
I was shocked to learn that this is Audrey Niffenegger's first novel. Wonderful character development and a rich plot without trying so hard to sound wordsy and overly metaphorical like an English Lit professor - a trap I find many authors fall into these days.
If I had one critique, it would be that the story could have been pared down a little. The plot and subplots would have been just as well serviced with 50 or 100 pages less... which is not to say I didn't enjoy them!
I borrowed this from the library, but I will certainly pick it up in the near future to keep. I'm so excited to hear about Rachel McAdam and Eric Bana! Two of my favorite actors and I can only imagine how amazing that movie will be. :)
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