Gosh!

I was lucky enough to be able to review a few GOSH products, that they kindly sent me for free! Gotta love that! Not only loving that, but I actually loved the fact that I am kinda digging the products.

First up, The Lip Lacquer.

I usually am not a lipstick wearer, and when I do I usually go for muted, nude colours. So this red was definitely out of my comfort zone, BUT I LOVED it! It went on super easy, had a decent non-lipsticky smell to it, and the thing that I loved the most about it... it lasted for quite along time. I will definitely consider adding GOSH Lip Laquer to my make-up collection.

Prime n' Set:

For someone who rarely wears anything on her face other than some blush and moisturizers, this product was foreign to me. That being said, it went on super light and kept my make-up in place all day, even after training for that dreadful (cancelled) 5km run.


Forever Eyeshadow:

I loved how easily this eyeshadow stick glides on, And also love how long in lasted. The colour was great too, something you could wear from day to night without looking like a whore. 

Crazy Volume Mascara:

I loved this mascara! Usually when I buy mascara, I buy whatever is on sale. This mascara worked wonderfully. My lashes were long and luxurious looking, and it lasted all night (even into the mornings when I forgot to wash my face).Which resulted in major racoon eyes! While I will buy it in the future, I may consider the waterproof version. 

The prices of all these items are reasonable as well, won't break the bank for some pretty make-up!

not your typical REVIEW: Beauty Mask

Again, this is me going off of the bookish route. Enjoy, if not ignore and come back tomorrow :)

 

So I realize I pin a lot of things with the high hopes of trying them but never actually doing anything with them. Then I figured, as I'm sitting here watching The Watch (Side Note: which is a horrible movie by the way. I can't get the time back. I also can't not finish it) I should do one of these face masks. I also been reading a lot of the pintester.com and thus I was inspired. And I apologize in advance for the wonderful pictures!



The Claim: The Miracle Mask This DIY mask, made of nutmeg, honey, and cinnamon, is calming and soothing for stressed-out skin – in addition, it smells absolutely amazing! The secret? Nutmeg and honey act as natural anti-inflammatories, which can reduce swelling and redness in skin. They’re also great for soothing acne scars and preventing infection. In addition, the nutmeg and cinnamon also work to exfoliate your skin when you wash this mask off. (From collegefashion.net)

The process:

Gather the 3 ingredients, nutmeg, cinnamon and honey. About a tsp of the spices, and a tbsp of the liquid goo.

Mix them together. Mmm looks like I'm about to put shit on my face.

This is the, I think I made a bad choice face.... (on another side note, I miss this wall paper!)

Probably a good thing that my husband wasn't around for this lovely spectacle.

It says to keep it on for 30 minutes. I lasted about 20 minutes because it got soooo itchy. I also forgot I had it on for a few minutes and scratched, bad idea.

The one claim was right though. It smelt amazing!!!!

It was extremely drippy and I definitely did not realize that until I went to the bathroom to was my face.

The Results:

After exfoliating and washing here I am...all fresh faced and all pretty.

My skin does feel a lot cleaner. But it also feels VERY dry.

PS_-sorry for the really bad pictures of myself

BOOK REVIEW: The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes

What happened to the girl you left behind?

In 1916 French artist Edouard Lefevre leaves his wife Sophie to fight at the Front. When her town falls into German hands, his portrait of Sophie stirs the heart of the local Kommandant and causes her to risk everything - her family, reputation and life - in the hope of seeing her true love one last time.

Nearly a century later and Sophie's portrait is given to Liv by her young husband shortly before his sudden death. Its beauty speaks of their short life together, but when the painting's dark and passion-torn history is revealed, Liv discovers that the first spark of love she has felt since she lost him is threatened...

In The Girl You Left Behind two young women, separated by a century, are united in their determination to fight for the thing they love most - whatever the cost.
- Goodreads synopsis



First off I would like to award this book with 4 stars.  It was a refreshing read that pulled me in right from the start.

I picked up this book because many of my fellow bloggers reviewed it and gave it a high rating, and while I didn't read the actual reviews (sorry guys) I figured that the majority couldn't be wrong. And they weren't as it was super enjoyable and I would recommend it to anyone.

True to form, I didn't read the synopsis before starting, so once Part 2 started focusing on present day time I was very confused. Until I went to read the synopsis and understood that it was actually part of the story line.  Once that was settled I started reading it with more of an open mind and allowed myself to like the second part.

I really liked the 1916 story of Sophie and her place when Germany occupies their little French town. I just loved the way you got dragged into the war setting and got a feel for what it was actually like for when another country takes over. You lose your belongings, your food, your daily life- something I hope to never have to go through. I also enjoyed that it was about World War 1- a time piece that is usually forgotten in favour of the more popular war.   Basically Sophie's husband was sent to fight in the war- Sophie doesn't know his whereabouts, if he's a prisoner or what. The one thing that keeps her going is a picture that Eduard painted of her. This picture is so enchanting that it captures the eye of the Kommandant. The Kommandant moves his troops into Sophie's bar/hotel making Sophie and her sister cook feats for them. (how cruel is that, you are starving and have to cook a full meal). However, an unlikely friendship blossoms. I use the word friendship loosely- acquaintance would be better suited.  Because of this, Sophie would offer to do anything to get the Kommandant to allow her to see her husband again, or at least get news of him.

Then part 2 comes.

Liz is a widow living in a spectacular glass house that her late husband built. The one thing she covets the most in this house is a painting; The Girl You Left Behind (the painting of Sophie- if you aren't following along) which her husband had bought her on their honeymoon.  Liz finally gets out of her depressed mood and meets Paul.  Paul is fantastic. Except for his job.  The painting becomes a focus in a legal battle, that essentially puts a strain on their new found relationship.

I felt that the modern day story between Liz and Paul dragged on sometimes. I wanted the story to be more focused on The Girl You Left Behind- Sophie. I kept wanting it to switch gears back to it. And every once in a while Jojo did grant me that wish, splattering happenings of Sophie back into the narrative.Despite that it was still a great read.  Both females end up fighting for the one thing that they love the most no matter what the cost.  This was the first book I read of Jojo Moyes, and I am now in the process of collecting her other books. She writes in such a way entices you and enchants you.

(Received in exchange for an honest review)

"I never knew real happiness until you.” 

 

"Nobody listens any more. Everyone knows what they want to hear, but nobody actually listens.” 

BOOK REVIEW: No Wonder You Feel Like Crap! by Richard Weinstein, D.C

If you feel trapped in a vicious downward spiral of food cravings, obesity, and ill health, you’re not alone. Although several excellent studies and books have made the connection to stress, sedentary lifestyle, and dietary salt, sugar, and fat, they’re still missing the critical pieces to unlocking the puzzle of what is really making you sick—and without an understanding of those missing pieces, and especially the critical roles of the stress hormone cortisol and internal inflammation—your chances of regaining full health and vitality are not good.
In this groundbreaking book, Dr. Weinstein explains in simple terms exactly what goes wrong in our bodies and precisely why our modern lifestyle and poor dietary choices can lead to such a bewildering variety of symptoms and diseases. Once you understand the common factors leading to obesity, illness, and even premature death, the author further empowers you with a commonsense, easy-to-follow program that will show you how to break the cycle of illness and regain and maintain vibrant health.


This book is an ARC from netgalley courtesy of Panverse Publishing LLC slated to come out Sept 22, 2013.

Yes I did pick this book out based on the title alone. But even the smaller blurbs on the cover intrigues me and it turned out to be pretty interesting.  And a round of applause has to be given to the writing style. It wasn't 'dumbed' down but it made a lot of the scientific jargon easier to read. Plus, anyone who says things like 'completley ass backwards' in a research book has my attention.

Cortisol is causing all of my problems people! And most likely yours.  Dr. Weinstein talks about the Triangle of Health (structural integrity, chemical integrity and psychological integrity) and how getting in touch with each element can, well basically make you not feel like crap anymore. This can be done by focusing on the 3R's: resolve inflammation, repair intestinal tract, restore hormonal balance.  He goes into detail on each "R".

Upon reading this book I do want to research a bit more into this whole cortisol thing and to see if others feel the same way.  Because if a lot of these problems are due to cortisol, then I think its a great fix.  However the one thing I'm a little iffy about is the 'cure' for it. I get that we need antioxidants and vitamins, but I really don't want to have to take 16 pills a day to do it. Are there any other natural ways to get into it.

Also, the chapter on diet and good carb vs bad carb was enlightening as well. I knew basically what most carbs sources fell into, but to realize that you shouldn't eat two from the same list shocked me. Not so commonsense as it seemsI guess.

I give it 4 stars.

Great writing style, new topic, makes me want to look into it more.

 

BOOK REVIEW: Swim by Jennifer Weiner

Swim is a short story that I had previously downloaded for free on my kobo. In my goals of cleaning up all of my devices  (so I can fill them up with new and better things!) I came across Swim.

The short story that inspired Jennifer Weiner’s forthcoming novel The Next Best Thing.Ruth has left her job writing for a hit television show for reasons she’d rather not discuss and is supplementing her increasingly dwindling savings with freelance writing projects—namely, helping anxious high school students craft a perfect college essay and lonely souls craft captivating online dating profiles. When she’s not working, she’s swimming—lap after lap at the local indoor pool, in a desperate attempt to wash away the sting of professional failure and heartbreak that she can’t seem to shake. It takes an unexpected client to show her that appearances can be deceiving, and that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is simply dive back in.


While it is a short story, I felt like it should have grabbed my attention more. I didn't want to read anymore about Ruth.  I felt like I wanted to read more about Cailtyn and her attempts to get into college. And that's saying something!  Based on this I'm not sure if I want to read the novel this inspired to be.

I know this is a short and shitty review, but it was kind of a short and shitty story. Alas, I really don't have much to go on. So, I will talk about the cover. Judging by it I would assume it would be more of a beach swim book. I mean, look at that suit!. A red ruffled, vintage inspired suit.  (probably a mirclesuit!) The book was about fitness swiming. They should have put a polyeseter racerback suit up there. That red suit wouldn't make it!

(yes I did work in a bathing suit store once upon a time).

BOOK REVIEW: The Five People You Meet In Heaven by Mitch Alborn

 Synopsis from Goodreads: Eddie is a wounded war veteran, an old man who has lived, in his mind, an uninspired life. His job is fixing rides at a seaside amusement park. On his 83rd birthday, a tragic accident kills him as he tries to save a little girl from a falling cart. He awakes in the afterlife, where he learns that heaven is not a destination, but an answer.

In heaven, five people explain your life to you. Some you knew, others may have been strangers. One by one, from childhood to soldier to old age, Eddie's five people revisit their connections to him on earth, illuminating the mysteries of his "meaningless" life, and revealing the haunting secret behind the eternal question: "Why was I here?"

4 Stars.

 

"All endings are also beginnings. We just don't know it at the time."

I did enjoy this book. It is a very easy and short read, perfect for a slow afternoon in the office. 

This book starts out with the death of Eddie. An amusement park maintenance guy. He is 83 years old.  My first though was, retire already man! Your too old to be working!  Anyways, in a tragic accident of one of the rides failing Eddie dies. Poor old Eddie. On his birthday too! I love that. I think its poetic. I think it is a perfect cycle of one's life. (side note: I don't mean to sound morbid here, but I think I would like to die on my birthday too. Preferably after my mom's passed as her birthday is the same day and that would be a SHITTY birthday present for her.)

Eddie, wakes up in 'heaven'. And through heaven he is presented to 5 different people who have had an impact on the course of his life.  Even if he knew them or not. Each person had an important lesson to teach Eddie, as ' heaven is a place where you understand your place on earth'.

I won't go into the specific stories of each, as they would most definitely contain spoilers.

#1) Blue Man, a stranger who happened to be in a car accident that was caused by one of Eddie's wayward ball while playing catch with a friend when he was a young boy.
 lesson taught: All lives are interconnected.  Every choice you make inadvertently effects so many other people's lives.

#2) Captain- Eddie's Captain in the army.
 lesson taught: Sacrifice is needed. Yes it may cause someone else to die, but based on that sacrifice so many other things could happen.

#3) Ruby, Waitress and happens to be the namesake of which the amusement park was named after.
 lesson taught: Forgiveness and to let go of anger. Sometimes you need to look at both sides of the story in order to forgive. Allowed him to make peace with his father.

#4) Marguerite, his wife who died of cancer earlier.
 lesson taught: That love endures all. Love is a powerful thing. And will transcend.

#5) Tala, a little Filipino girl.
 lesson taught: Acceptance. His life had a purpose. And that working at the amusement park his whole life was exactly where he was supposed to be.

Now, I don't mean to go all religious on you, as I'm far from it but I liked the first stop because it's what I think 'heaven' should be. Free from pain. Consumed with happiness.  I liked Marguerite's story as well because it was one of the people that Eddie really wanted to see.

After reading this book, it makes you think. What five people would be your guides into heaven? What lessons would you need to accept before accepting peace? Am I supposed to be here sitting at this stupid office job for a reason? (which if I am, please let me know the reason, cuz it better be a good one!)

I recommend this book to anyone looking for a short, little inspirational read. Its not doused in religious undertones and I don't think you necessarily need to believe in heaven to read it. Although I'm sure you wouldn't pick up a book with heaven in the title if you didn't.... But, as I said before I'm far from being religious and I enjoyed it because it makes you think. Makes you question about your life.

Another one off of the ol' book bucket list!




 

BOOK REVIEW: The Fault In Our Stars by John Green

I had The Fault in Our Stars by John Green on my To-Read pile for a long long time.Seriously. And I added it without really knowing much about it other than the fact that it was supposed to be this great read and the cover features one of my favorite colors.  It's taken me a while to write a review on it, not because it wasn't good, but because I find it hard to put into words. 


The synopsis according to Goodreads:
Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel's story is about to be completely rewritten.


Hazel has cancer- thyroid cancer which has her tethered to an oxygen tank.  Augustus has cancer - osteosarcoma. They start talking. Connecting. Falling in love. They are normal teenagers defined by their diagnosis. I mean, they are as normal as they can be, they do have cancer.  They've been dealt a really shitty hand and obviously the way they deal with things are going to be a little off. Augustus and Hazel both talk with such prose that it does seem unbelievable at times. I mean, it was like watching Dawson's Creek and having to read a dictionary after. But that is what makes it so great. These teenagers have had to deal with things I can't even fathom. They know life is precious, that death is a side effect of cancer.

I enjoy that the book talked about another book throughout it, basically being a supporting character.  The book was so important to Hazel, and through Hazel it became important to Augustus. I think as book lovers this is a thing we all want. We want to share our love of the literary word to others, but at the same time we fear that they might not like it, that they might have a completely different viewpoint on the book that it wrecks it for us.  The book just happens to based on cancer. And the book just ends. Mid sentence. Hazel has spent most of her free time writing the author trying to gain some closure. I think this is a horrifyingly beautiful metaphor. Think about it. They are in the exact same position as the book they love. Their life could just end. They know the world isn't a wish granting factory so they make the most of the time together.

Not exactly. I did see where people would burst out crying, and I admit I felt a few tears seep through. I'm actually surprised I didn't bawl my eyes out. Cancer is a thieving whore who should be shot. Cancer is a horrible thing and any mention of it in books, TV shows, movies...make me cry. Its a given. With The Fault in Our Stars, cancer is a main component in the telling of a love story. They wouldn't have come together if it wasn't for the bitch cancer. They wouldn't come apart if it wasn't for the bitch cancer either.

By not really knowing what this book was about I went into it with an open mind.  John Green wrote the characters so profoundly that you connected with every single one. That is why the tears started. You felt their happiness, their pain, their loss. Hazel, Augustus, Isaac. Hazel's family. They all made you feel something.  They all made you want a happier ending.

I do recommend this book to others. Go into it with an open mind. An understanding that it might tug at your emotional well being.  The subject matter sucks but its a reality that most people, unfortunately, have to deal with.

This book was 'okay'.
                                 'okay'.


4.5 stars

 

”Love is keeping the promise anyway”

 

 

”It would be a privilege to have my heart broken by you”. - What a great line. My heart melted a little when Augustus said this.



BOOK REVIEW: P.S- You're Invited...40+ DIY Projects for All of Your Fashion, Home Décor & Entertaining Needs by Erica Domesek

P.S I Made This is a blog I frequently visit, so when I saw that they were coming out with a book on netgalley, I had to request it.  I am not crafty at all. OK, I like to think I am but when it comes down to it, I'm actually a hopeless case. This may be due to the fact that I don't follow instructions very well. (For being an avid reader I have a very short attention span).

Anyways, every time I go to their blog I'm always like, hell ya I could make that. It was no different with the book. However, in the back of my mind I kept thinking- why wouldn't you just buy that? By the time you get all of your supplies, but the time, and the frustration (maybe that only comes with me when I try a DIY) you could have easily gone to the store and bought something very similar. The book is filled with 40+ DIY, from making your own fleece poncho, to decorating champagne flutes. Lots and lots of ideas.

The pictures are great and the instructions that followed each craft were seemed good. Let's be honest I didn't actually try any. But I think I may try the Floral Bow Napkin Rings or the cork clutch.  If I do I will be sure to blog about it! 

This book would be a perfect gift and I know a few of my gal friends would love to add it in their collection!

Side note: Is it strange that Erica's last name is so close to domestic? Its like she was destined to be this craft goddess, that I aspire to be!

Comes out September 10th!

not your typical REVIEW: Bob Harper Pure Burn workout DVD

It’s a burn all right. All over the body. How I'm going to walk tomorrow nobody knows.

So to continue with my promise of not always reviewing books, here is another workout video by Bob Harper. Let's be honest though, I wish reading burnt more calories. And I have to admit have been putting it off for a while, the trailer just looks so scary.

Finally, I manned up and put the DVD on. I decided to go straight for the 1-hour just like the cardio one. It didn’t last so long. I saw 66 minutes, and stopped it. 66 minutes! That’s false advertising Bob! So I manned down, and then just did the beginner 20 minute strength workout. Ahhhh, I finally felt good at something. It was a breath of fresh air. It starts out with stretches to warm up for 3 minutes, which gets you used to the movements, then its bicep curls, tricep extensions, tricep kickbacks, alternating lunges, front raises, lateral raises, shoulders, dead lifts, bentover wide row, and then some pushups and ab work. Each exercise just focusing on one movement, there are no combinations, like I said, after doing the cardio one, this was soooo nice. But a lot of things done here were the same as the 25 butt & balance one on the cardio DVD, so why not just do that one instead?

Finally, I did the 66 hour, I mean minute workout. I have to admit I was a little tired and sore but I powered through it with the thoughts of a review in mind. Bob yammered on this time about how you wanted Bob as a trainer, well you have him now, so don’t let him down…enter a string of explicits. The warm up was good, longer than normal and then the pure hell begins. Push ups, t-stalls, crunches, lateral raises, this that and the other thing. And this is only 20 minutes into. Seriously, I was sweating and cursing my ass off. Then there were some matrix lunges, and regular lunges, then alternating lunges. Who knew there were so many fucken types of lunges! Then more push ups, and planks, lots of god damn plank, oh then more crunches and skull crushers. That name just sounds scary. It just kept going and going and going. But it did work every muscle in the body, it also went by fairly quickly. I may be lying to myself with this part in my post-adrenaline work out bliss.

I think the best part of it was seeing Bob's workout buddies sweating, and giving up, grunting, and squealing like they just got fucked. Also, the girl who showed all the modified exercises facial expressions were priceless. So funny! That andmy own swearing at the TV. It made you feel a bit better.

 It pushed you hard, and you can make it harder by increasing your dumbbell weights. There were no set reps, just you kept doing it until he told you to move to the next one. The music also wasn't as pumping on this DVD.


Awesome, I recommend it. Now to try the Bob Harper, yoga one. oh vie!

BOOK REVIEW: Are You There Vodka, It's Me Chelsea by Chelsea Handler

I though this book would be soooo funny. Out of all the comedian memoirs I've been reading lately (Ellen DeGeneres, Mindy Kaling) I had high hopes for Chelsea. I think she is a hilarious talk show host, I am usually nodding in agreement and thrilled that she had the balls to say some of the things we all think off. 

That is not what you get with this book. I was even drinking mojitos during the majority of my reading time! I kept expecting to laugh out loud, instead I was shaking my head.

She comes across as rude and lewd. They way she writes make her seem like a shittyfriend too. Very judgemental.  And truth be told I am also a judgemental bitch. I think thats why I like reviewing things, but really Chelsea, really? She however would be fun to play YOURS with.

The worst part, was probably the second last chapter with the midget. I would like to state that I have absolutely no problems with the vertically challenge but Chelsea's obsession with them was slightly terrifying.

I will provide a few of my almost laugh out loud moments and not just when you type LOL because you have nothing else to say and don't want to hurt the other persons feeling. (this is why it garners 2 stars)

"I rolled over and picked up Us Weekly magazine off the floor. The cover had a picture of Angelina, Brad, and their little Eskimo son, Maddox. I saw staring at the photo, wondering why this little boy looks so pissed off in every picture.

At first I thought he was just pissed about his Mohawk, but then I realized he’s probably furious. Maddox must have thought he hit the jackpot when some A-list celebrity rescued him from third-world Cambodia, only to discover that she was going to shuffle him back and for the to EVERY other third-world country in the universe. He’s probably like, “When the fuck are we gonna get to Malibu, bitch?”

 

 

“Then a homeless man with a dog approached us and put his hand out. This happens to be something that I have a real problem with: homeless people with pets who approach you for food when they have a perfectly delicious dog standing right there?” 

 

 

I did really enjoy the Prison Break chapter.

 

Based on this book, I am not sure that I will read her other books. I just don't think she can cut it as a writer. Or I would invest in the audiobook version as that may help.

 

2 stars

 

 

 

BOOK REVIEW:The Edge of Never by J.A. Redmerski

Get in bitches! We are going on a road trip! (seriosusly I just really liked ths .gif and wanted to put it in a review somewhere!)

So The Edge of Never by J.A. Redmerski was actually a pretty good read. It was another netgalley one, but its already been released and I do recommend it for you peeps to pick up.

The basic plot according to Goodreads:

Twenty-year-old Camryn Bennett had always been one to think out-of-the-box, who knew she wanted something more in life than following the same repetitive patterns and growing old with the same repetitive life story. And she thought that her life was going in the right direction until everything fell apart.

Determined not to dwell on the negative and push forward, Camryn is set to move in with her best friend and plans to start a new job. But after an unexpected night at the hottest club in downtown North Carolina, she makes the ultimate decision to leave the only life she’s ever known, far behind.

With a purse, a cell phone and a small bag with a few necessities, Camryn, with absolutely no direction or purpose boards a Greyhound bus alone and sets out to find herself. What she finds is a guy named Andrew Parrish, someone not so very different from her and who harbors his own dark secrets. But Camryn swore never to let down her walls again. And she vowed never to fall in love.

But with Andrew, Camryn finds herself doing a lot of things she never thought she’d do. He shows her what it’s really like to live out-of-the-box and to give in to her deepest, darkest desires. On their sporadic road-trip he becomes the center of her exciting and daring new life, pulling love and lust and emotion out of her in ways she never imagined possible. But will Andrew’s dark secret push them inseparably together, or tear them completely apart?

I liked the dulaity of the narrative in the novel. Its a great way to see eaxactly how each of the characters are feeling.

Camryn, yes she was a little flighty and her deep thoughts got a little annoying. But hey, we all have flaws. Speaking of flaws I get your boyfriend dies, and you think you will never love again. I can't even imagine that. But vowing to yourself that you will never love again because it hurts to much, come on. You are 20 freakin years old!  I did like how she questioned things though, she just didn't fall into bed and fell head over heels.


I liked Andrew as a character. Mainly for the Justin Beiber bashing:

“She got pissed when I accused her of having Bieber Fever (it pisses me off that I even know “what the fuck that means—I blame that on society”

And also the fact that he wasn't the typical rich guy in all the rest of these romance novels. He seems like a genuine good guy. Tattooed, hot, and he turned down a modelling contract because he didn't want to sell out.  I'm not sure if this makes him a good guy or stupid. But whatev. Things I didn't like about Andrew is that he needs to calm the fuck down. Keep the fists in the pocket, don't go all protective on everyone.

 
They both were very much closed off to the fact of love.  They didn't want to invest into the feeling in fear of hurting the other, or themselves.  This is where the love story really begins. They both want to deny themselves of this based on certain reasons.
 
The build up was good if not slow. The first half seemed to drag on a little and I found myself contemplating on if it was ever going to get better. Then it did. I think it started with the whole washroom scene and the start of the road trip. See the car .gif does fit in a little bit!
 
As always, I'm critical so here are things I didn't like:


The emotional rollercoaster at the end. I don't mean to give any spoilers but you pretty much go from this:

to this:

 

 (however this made a great plot and ending)
 
-Some of the descriptions of outfits and stuff. Call it what it is. Pigtails, not 2 braids on each side resting over the shoulder. Pigtales.  I know thats really minor, but still...
 
 -Also, the whole  "If you were to let me fuck you, you would have to let me own you ." Whoa, Andrew. Whoa. Calm down. What does this even me? Would you make me a slave? Would I not be allowed to do anything. COuldn't you just say, we can only sleep together if we are exclusivily dating? That surely sounds more romantic. I think if someone said that to me I would definitly be like "peace out man,  I really don't need to have sex right now"

-There were a few lines that could be taken the wrong way as well. I won't get into them but still, something to be mindful of while reading.
 

Overall though, I did really like The Edge of Never. The novel felt like an actual romance, with build up of feelings not just an instnat, boom lets fuck, i love you mentality.  That I liked. Yes, they both had some serious issues, but they meshed well with eachother.  It made me want to get a matching tattoo with G, as well as to go on a long trip. 

(on a side note rant: what is it with people only listening to classic rock? I mean, yes its good but come on give a little of the new stuff a chance. That classic rock wsa new at some point.)

And check out the song  Posion and Wine by The Civil Wars. It made me happy that they mentioned it because, well I love it!

 

BOOK REVIEW: Belinda's Ring by Corrina Chong

Half-Asian teenager Grace (but she’d prefer it if you called her “Gray” instead) is dead set on becoming a marine biologist rather than being anything like her mother, Belinda. She’d leave that role to her sister Jess instead, who’s a supermom-in-the-making.

Belinda herself is somewhat obsessed as well, by crop circle books and imagery, and abruptly runs out on her family, flying across the Atlantic in order to study the real thing in the English countryside. Grace and her sister are left alone to take care of the house, their rapidly-deteriorating stepfather, and their peculiar little brother, Squid - goodreads synopsis.

I was skeptical to read this. Not based on what it was about. I actually probably would have been drawn to it based on the cover alone. I was skeptical because first off I never even heard about it until my mom started ranting and raving about it. And why she was raving about it? My childhood friends sister (who used to live on the same street) wrote it. You know what that means? I actually know a published author! I mean, thats pretty cool. (and yes I use the term very loosely) Secondly, I felt like I had this huge obligation to like it based on the fact that I 'know' the author. So when it came time to read it for book club I was hesitant but still excited, I mean look at that cover!

Now that that is out of the way. What did I think? I liked it. It wasn't the best book I've read this yer but for a first time novel. Corrina did a fantastic job.  Her writing style is the type I like, being that she writes how she would talk. It is very believable and you get an understanding of what life is like for Gray.

I try not to look in the mirror too much, because I feel like I never see what I actually look like. I see what my brain thinks I look like, but it's different than what I actually look like. You know when you see yourself on video or in a picture and you think, Ew, is that really what I look like?

The novel focuses on Gray. She is a typical intorvert Calgarian teenager. Gray is trying to fit in at school, help raise her step-brother Squid, and trying to get along with her older sister who thinks she is the second coming.

Side note: this book is based in Calgary, and being a Calgarian/Canadian I understood a lot of the geography and terms (LRT for example). I can see that if you aren't from around here you may get lost in it and push aside a lot of the descriptions. Side Side Note: I loved the  Len T. Wong part. Len T. Wong is a real estate person, and his adds are everywhere. I also have countless times seen this graffiti.

The other part of the story is focused on Belinda. The mother. She decided to take a break from her family and travel to England (her mother land) to study crop circles. While some may see this as selfish, I think its great. Just because you have kids doesn't mean that you should give up on your hobbies and interest. Yes she failed big time in the fact that she left them without much guidance or knowing how long she would be gone for.

All the characters in the novel are flawed. They all have selfish tendencies and mixed in with the way Chong wrote the novel, ist what makes it so relatable. And with the duality of point of views tells a great story and gets you to like each of the characters in their own light.

One critique I have is the ending. I feel like it just ended. I wanted to know more about Belinda and her sister, more about the crop circles. I wanted to  know more about Squid. I guess you could add this to my Top Ten list of books I want to see a sequel too. I also love the duality of the meaning of Belinda's Ring.  You just have to read it to find out I suppose!

Belinda's Ring is a great first novel for Corrina. I do recommend it. Its not a newfound plot nor does it have a huge climatic ending, but it was honest.

Oh and you may be wondering why are there pictures of various sea creatures? Well because thorughout the novel, you get little snippets of information abotu various squids and fish. Which the biology nerd inside me loved. And its not like its out of place. Gray wants to be a marine biologist. And I think they are pretty cool looking!

4 stars!

BOOK REVIEW: Escaping Reality( The Secret Life of Amy Bensen #1) by Lisa Renee Jones

 At the young age of eighteen, tragedy and a dark secret force Lara to flee all she has known and loves to start a new life. Now years later, with a new identity as Amy, she’s finally dared to believe she is forgotten–even if she cannot forget. But just when she lets down her guard, the ghosts of her past are quick to punish her, forcing her back on the run.

On a plane, struggling to face the devastation of losing everything again and starting over, Amy meets Liam Stone, a darkly entrancing recluse billionaire, who is also a brilliant, and famous, prodigy architect. A man who knows what he wants and goes after it. And what he wants is Amy. Refusing to take “no” as an answer, he sweeps her into a passionate affair, pushing her to her erotic limits. He wants to possess her. He makes her want to be possessed. Liam demands everything from her, accepting nothing less. But what if she is too devastated by tragedy to know when he wants more than she should give? And what if there is more to Liam than meets the eyes? - goodreads synopsis.

This book surprised me. Yes, I did pick it out on Netgalley purely based on the cover art. And it was actually good guys!!! My tactics worked this time! (which is why it surprised me).

So Amy Bensen is a perpetual runaway and you only get a glimpse as to why. But basically she leaves her life whenever she receives a note saying to. I guess as a reader we dont' know her situation, but how shitty would it be to start a new life constantly.  I mean I have a hard enough times making friends in a city I've been in for 28 years I would definitely become a hermit.  Amy is resolved not to get close to anyone.

That is until she meets Hottie McHotterson. That changes everything.  She meets him on the plane to her new life. And man she is dumb. I'm sorry but you just have this inner monologue about how everyone close to you dies, that you don't trust anyone, blah, blah, blah. Then you go and cozy up to this hot stranger? Okay, I know they didn't 'wink wink nudge nudge' cozy up but still.  If you don't know who to trust, then maybe you should put your guards up a little higher. I know it would be tough to live life suspecting everyone is going to betray you and/or kill you and you are feeling a little lonely, but come on!

Amy did make me change my opinion  on her though. I liked how she just didn't give in to her loins.  Finally there is a chick that questions the hottie. I mean, hey- maybe the domineering, have to tie you up to fuck you guy just isn't worth it.  But then she does give in. I mean, isn't it normal to have a complete stranger tie you up to a door frame? ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU HAVE TRUST ISSUES!!

 

*SPOILER*

Okay. Liam is an asshole. Girls are allowed to hang out with friends, even if that friend happens to be a guy. Heaven forbid I go out for a beer with a guy friend and my significant other walks in.  First off, have some trust. Secondly, grow a pair. Just because I talk to a guy doesn't mean I want to sleep with them. He goes ape-shit crazy, acting like a controlling boyfriend (which last time I checked, they just had sex once, not even at that what are we phase) who doesn't even give her the time of day to explain. THEN he makes it so she feels bad for him! Step up ladies! I would once love to have the star of the book stand up and be like 'fuck off man,  you can't control who I hang out with, what I wear, when I'm allowed to go home, if you can't deal with that, no more loving'.

 *SPOILER DONE*

 

 

Now my other rant, why must EVERY romance story have to have a rich millionaire hot guy as the main character's love interest? I mean do middle class, trade workers not have sexual fantasies about tying chicks up? Are girls not attracted to them, lust after them? Throw all caution to the wind? Maybe middle class guys just aren't asshats with power control issues? Maybe if I ever write a novel I will write that! (don't steal my idea now!!!). On the flip side, do you notice that if the guy isn't good looking he would be considered a pervert?

Also, yes I know its a book and not real life. But I would really like to know, how these affairs intensify so fast! You just meet, have weird BDSM sex, then love each other. I mean being in lust I see. Loving the orgasm yes, loving the person yes. MAYBE they are so in love with the orgasm that that is why they freak out! Yes! Got it! Maybe that's what they are all into bondage too!

 

This book was very easy to read, but it was very easy to get into. You kept wanting to know who everyone is, whose deceiving who so it was very hard to put down. And I know it may seem like I have a lot of problems with this book, but its really just the subject matter. I mean, they do entertain my ranting needs and I always come back to them.

I will check out the rest of the Secret Life of Amy Bensen stories.  I want to know why she is in hiding, who the handler guy is, who Liam actually is (I secretly want him to be the bad guy) who Jared is (who is not a millionaire and want him to be the love interest), who all these people she meets are? So many unanswered questions!!!

4 stars!

not your typical REVIEW: Bob Harper workout DVD

holy mother of jesus.

I told you I would sway from books once in a while to review other things! And well, sometimes reading and drinking champagne all the time leads to being a fat ass. 

To remedy thisI brought this DVD out of the shadows of the cabinets and with being crazy in the fitness mood I put this in the DVD player.  I also figured, ‘hey, if he can make all those biggest loser contestants skinny then I can do this no problem'

There are two workouts on this DVD, but there are 2 more DVDs in this Inside Out series. I am on the search for the other 2 as we speak.

The first time I tried it, I just pressed play on the 60 minute cardio workout. Didn’t even look at the trailers, which would have scared me out of it I’m sure. It begins with Bob yammering on about how important the heart is blah blah blah, a perfect time to get the dogs situated on the couch and out of my way.

After the warm up, the real workout started and by the single-arm deadlifts swings I was feeling really tired and out of breath. And it just keeps going. Never stopping. Ugh. I saw a lot of the exercises done here on the Biggest Loser and thought they looked pretty easy, especially when some 300lb brontosaurus is doing them. Nope. Not easy at all. I felt like a brontosaurus trying to climb mount everest. And it didn’t stop. More deadlifts, and squats, handwalks, jumping jacks, mountain climbers, the whole shebang.Then you notice the clock on the corner, 40 minutes to go, are you freakin kidding me? I'm already breathing like a fat kid stuffing his face with ding dongs trying to walk up the stairs. The second half was mainly arms and standing ab works, mosh pit jumps, push ups, scorpion push-ups, and getting Tobi to stop trying to hump me. It also brought more sweat and swearing at the TV. I have to say the clock while bad at times, also was good motivation to keep going, as it is only an hour. Another plus is the music isn’t your typical work out video music, but more rockish get ya going type.

The best part of it, other than knowing there is 3 minutes left and that means cool-down, is that during the whole work out, his work out buddies are sweating, shaking, and just like every normal person trying it for the first time not being able to complete all of the reps. They were saying no more, and giving Bob the evil eyes. This made me feel better, if these super in shape people are having a hard time, then its okay for this super out of shape person to be having a hard time as well. By the time it was over, I was drenched in sweat, hyperventilating, legs shaking like crazy that I thought I was going to collapse walking up the stairs to let the dogs out- I say it’s a damn good work out.

There is also a 20 minute butt & balance workout on the DVD, but as Bob so nicely states in the hour long “there is no such thing as a 20 minute work out-that’s a warm up”, I wasn’t expecting much. While the cardio wasn’t as intense, the breath still got up there. And my legs and ass felt it the next day.There are some similar moves from this one and the 60 minute one, like deadlifts and suitcase swings (my nemesis) but also some new ones. Get used to standing on one leg, feeling every muscle in that leg burn while incorporating arm work like lateral raises.oh you feel it alright. And just when you think you can shake out your leg and switch it to the other side, nope some more single leg deadlifts are thrown at you. Short, good strength work out to do on the days where cardio really does not seem like fun.

So, all in all I really like this DVD, I forgot how much it hurts. I recommend it to anyone who wants a different at home exercise DVD. Its hard, with only 1 Bob-approved water break. You can increase the intensity by upping how much weight you’re using. And Bob isn’t an ass, motivating you just at the right times. And I couldn’t walk or sit down in my chair easily for the next couple of days which I feel defines a successful workout.
I also really just wanted to curl up with a good book after as well!

 

BOOK REVIEW: One Step Too Far by Tina Seskis

 An apparently happy marriage. A beautiful son. A lovely home. So what makes Emily Coleman get up one morning and walk right out of her life to start all over again? Has she had a breakdown? Was it to escape her dysfunctional family - especially her flawed twin sister Caroline who always seemed to hate her? And what is the date that looms, threatening to force her to confront her past? No-one has ever guessed her secret. Will you?

 - synopsis from Goodreads

One Step Too Far is another netgalley read. And its a good one guys! I am so glad I was allowed to review this. Publication happened on April 15th so there is really no excuse for you.

I know by doing this comparison many people will cringe and be like 'oh no you didn't!", but I got a very Gone Girl feel while reading it.

Emily packs up and leaves her husband and Charlie. From here she turns into Cat Brown and starts up a new life, new fashion, new habits, new everything. Essentially wanting to forget everything that has happened and her life prior.  And this is why you have to keep turning the pages.  She ends up in London. One thing I was wondering though, if you so desperately wanted to start a new life, why would you do it in a city fairly close to your old town, where your twin sister used to live? Would you not at least travel a few hours or better yet, leave the country? In a sense by only moving to London - yes its a big city with lots and lots of people you can secure a bit of anonymity- it seems like in the back of Emily/Cat's head that she wanted to be found eventually. She wanted to stay close or to keep tabs on her loved ones.

From the very first chapter I was pulled in. It could be that it is set in London. And pretty much any London book I am thrilled with. I will go back! Anyways, the first chapter sets up such a great scene. Each chapter focuses on a separate character, and while this sounds confusing Seskis does it in a way that drives the story, alternating between the past and the present. It gives you a greater depth and perspective in the story as well.

It was funny, as I was reading this novel I kept being like "I hope the next chapter is about Ben" and then I scrolled the page and ta-da! Ben. I wanted so bad to hear his side of the story, how he dealt with his wife abandoning him. And I have to say however as a leading lady Emily/Cat  sucks. Who just picks up and leaves? Deal with your shit. Don't make everyone else have to clean up your mess.

Obviously there is a twist. You find out exactly why Emily decided to up and leave. And it is one that you cannot even think of. And if you did a gold star is awarded to you!

I enjoyed this book. I liked that it kept you readinf foward and answering questions as time went on. Also the title of the book makes sense at the end too!



BOOK REVIEW: I'm Not Her by Janet Gurtler

 
“For the first time in my life, I didn’t feel envy…”




Tess is the exact opposite of her beautiful, athletic sister. And that’s okay. Kristina is the sporty one, Tess is the smart one, and they each have their place. Until Kristina is diagnosed with cancer. Suddenly Tess is the center of the popular crowd, everyone eager for updates. There are senior boys flirting with her. Yet the smiles of her picture-perfect family are cracking and her sister could be dying. Now Tess has to fill a new role: the strong one. Because if she doesn’t hold it together, who will

 

 

 

 

A pleasant surprise.  I can’t remember what prompted me to buy it off of Kobo, but most likely it would have to do with the cover art.  From the very first pages where you are introduced to a prologue you have a feeling this isn't going to go well. I mean, her sister is diagnosed with cancer.  It ain't no happy go lucky book.

Kristina is Miss.Popular-star of the volleyball team, star of the school really. Whereas her younger sister Tess is definitely not. She likes to draw and study. She doesnt' want to be the centre of attention. It shows that just because you are an all-star sometimes life throws you a curve ball, and that curve ball is cancer.  Yup. Cancer. What a stupid freakin thing. 

Yes, the novel is written under Tess' perspective but I like how this novel shows not only how Kristina deals with the news but also her other family members. Dad retreats. Mom drinks. Kristina turns into a hermit.  Her parents *enter head nod of shame*. I do not like how they managed the situation. Yes its devastating news to hear that your child has bone cancer.  I would not know how to deal with that. It was hard enough having to deal with my mom being diagnosed with cancer a couple years ago. BUT, you can't ignore it. You can't pretend everything is hunky-dorie.  Yes, you have to put on a strong facade to your loved one going through cancer, but fuck- cancer sucks no matter how you look at it! However, the different ways of dealing with Kristina's cancer is realistic because it shows that everyone deals with it differently and in their own ways. Is it the right or wrong way. Yes and No.

Life is interrupted for Tess, and her goals and dreams are falling to the wayside. Understandably yes, but you can't help but feel sorry for her as well. Yes, she isn't the one battling with the possibility of losing a leg due to cancer, but she still is losing a lot. Mainly because her parents are expecting her to be the responsible one.

Yes there are better, less stereotypical books out there on cancer. But this one was pretty darn good. 4 stars because I wasn't expecting it. Plus it was a super easy read too, which is perfect for those lazy summer days.

I think I will definitely check out Janet Gurtler's other novels.  Apparently the author is Canadian too. Which makes her 10x cooler.

BOOK REVIEW: The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

This was my reaction to a lot of stories presented in this book…

 

Ok, now that that is out of the way. The Glass Castle is a memoir written by Jeannette Walls of her childhood. First off, I have no idea who this chick is- so I wasn't swayed one way or the next. Her childhood is not typical and is no picnic; which kind of made me feel bad for complaining about mine at times.  Jeannette and her 3 siblings traveled like nomads with their nonconformist and some would say mentally ill but unaware of it parents, settling in little dusty desert towns until her dad decided it was time to pack up because the mafia was coming.

That’s the type of father he was.  A self-proclaimed drunk gambler, he had a bunch of conspiracy theories medaling around in his brain about the government and how they were all after them. He was a genius though, with great ideas. You could tell Jeanette  idolized her father, of course she didn’t know that he was crazy at the time but they had a bond that he didn't have with his other children.They built this dream of a Glass Castle which they would build in the desert financed by gold- one reason they kept moving.

Her mom was an artist. If she ever sold any pieces it was never mentioned but that is what she spent all the money on.  She would rather do something exciting than to cook a meal for her children- which is shown in the first chapter when Jeannette burns herself cooking hot dogs. She is 3. 3 years old. Cooking hot dogs! I didn’t even know how to say hot dog when I was 3, let alone cook one!  

There were a few cringeworthy parts; such as when after  the dad decided to pack up and leave, one of their first big moves. The dad came in yelling that they had to pack everything in an hour, to take only what they needed and while they were in the car, the cat was meowing and the dad stopped and threw the cat out of the car. He' was all like...

 

 

Another WTF moment was her parent’s reaction to sexual abuse.  The whole, well you gotta learn to stick up for your attitude. UMM! You’re the parents!  Step up. Provide for your children!

“If you don't want to sink, you better figure out how to swim”

Eventually, the money just couldn’t keep up with them and they had to settle in a small ass dingy town.  The Walls bought a hole. All I could imagine was this little shack that was more of a death trap. No heating, no electricity, no  plumbing that they had to shit in a bucket and played ‘rock, paper, scissors’ over who got to dump it out.  In fact they were so shit poor, forcing Jeannette and her brother to dig through garbage pails at lunch during school so they could eat enough.  I just couldn’t fathom that. This was all while the mom hoarded food while her kids barely had anything but garbage leftovers to eat. I mean Jeannette even called it our and said “It’s really not that hard to put food on the table if that's what you decide to do.”

Eventually the siblings all flee to New York to start a new life. One that didn’t involve starving or picking up and moving every few months and what becomes of her parents is something. You can tell she is ashamed of them but never completely ignored them.  She still loved her parents and tried to help them- but you could tell her and the rest of the siblings got to the point of why try anymore?  

“I wanted to let the world know that no one had a perfect life, that even the people who seemed to have it all had their secrets.”

I definitely enjoyed this book and I am really starting to like memoirs.  I couldn’t put it down once I started reading. However some of the stories hit a little close to home. Not to say that I ate garbage or only bathed once a week.  But the father reminded me of someone I knew and it made me sad, angry, conflicted I guess. I do recommend this book, another good book club pick.  It’s an eye opener for sure. I know people live like this. I just can’t believe it.   4.5 stars!

BOOK REVIEW: Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

A throwback to the younger days!

This book was my all-time favorite book growing up, well this and “A Dog Called Kitty” by Bill Wallace, so  needless to say I was a little apprehensive re-reading this because what if it wasn’t as fantastic as I remembered it?!

Well, it wasn’t as fantastic as I thought it once was, but it still is pretty darn good for what it is; in my humble opinion.

First a little synopsis is needed. Shiloh is about a little boy Marty who finds a young beagle wandering around. Turns out this beagle is owned by redneck Judd Travers, who loves hunting and kicking his dogs. A well-loved character that’s for sure.  Anyways the beagle, who Marty has named Shiloh runs away from the evil man.  Marty’s parents basically tell him, no we can’t afford a dog, plus the dog is owned by someone else – even if that some else is a dog abuser, we can’t keep him. So, Marty does what any other kid would do and hides Shiloh.  Well things happen that you can assume make the secret come unhidden.

While reading the part about keeping Shiloh in this hidden pen, and how Marty was surprised at how quiet this beagle was being, all I could think of was “Why can’t Tobi be quiet?” “Is my childhood love of this book the reason why I adopted a beagle?” “My dogs dumb compared to him” 

All in all, it was great to throw back an easy read and have a throwback to my elementary school days. However, reading this made me just wish we didn’t adopt a beagle who eats carpet.

 

And here is a picture of Tobi:

 

 

We Garett picked a winner!