Saying goodbye to ‘The Office’

I watch a lot of television, but only so many plot lines and characters will stick with me forever. The stories and characters from NBC’s The Office fall into that list.

When I was in the 9th grade (2005-06), I was integrating many new shows into my television lineup. This time was my transition from watching nothing but cartoons and Nickelodeon to shows with “real people.” I stumbled upon The Office after my 9th grade drama teacher quoted it in class. I thought it sounded funny and gave it a shot.

Over time, The Office became my favorite show. It was a show that both my brother and I could agree upon, share laughs from, and quote regularly without getting tired of it. To this day, it’s one of few shows we still agree upon.

More importantly, The Office taught me many lessons. To name a few: never use a George Foreman grill in bed. You can never have too many cats, unless you break some silly code that sets a limit (Cats are just awesome). How “That’s what she said” jokes work.

The Office introduced me to many actors and comedians who quickly became my all-time favorites. It also showed me one of the greatest television-love stories of all time (Though Dwangela is a close second.) This show gave me laughs upon laughs for nearly ten years thus far, and I know it will continue to do so in reruns for years to come.

It’s hard for me to say in words what The Office means to me. I love this show, its characters, and plot lines. Thank you Dunder Mifflin for always making me laugh and being the best “people person’s paper people!”

 

May 2013 Birchbox: Birchbox Beauty Diaries

I got my May 2013 Birchbox a few days ago, opened it, but didn’t really get a chance to look at the items until today. For those that don’t know, Birchbox is a monthly beauty sample subscription service. Women’s subscriptions are $10 and men’s are $20. If you are interested in joining, visit the Birchbox website.

This month’s Birchbox wasn’t really themed as expected, but judging by the products, I would give it some sort of summer/relaxation theme. Here’s what I got in this month’s box:

When I first opened this month’s box, I noticed the card was different than usual. This month, Birchbox is doing “beauty diaries.” It’s kind of like a simple mad libs related to the box. Here’s what it says:

“I always open my Birchbox in my __(place)__. The first thing I do is: __(verb)__. The sample I am most excited about is __(product and brand)__. I love the __(smell/look/idea)__ of the __(sample)__. I have to share __(product)__ with __(friend’s name)__.”

I will tweet my answers later today. (Follow me @LitaStarr).

Product details
(details taken from the Birchbox website)

Beauty Protector | Protect & Detangle
This paraben- and sulfate-free detangler seals the cuticles (the microscopic scales that compose the outermost layer of each strand of hair). It also smooths and moisturizes, thereby minimizing frizz, while safeguarding color and adding shine. Lastly, it provides protection against UV rays and heat. Happily, it accomplishes all this through a weightless, non-greasy formula that leaves behind an airy floral scent.

COOLA | Classic Face SPF 30 Cucumber Moisturizer for Face
Unlike chemical sunscreens, which can take up to half an hour to kick into effect, this ultra-light sunblocks start working right away. The skin-balancing formula features vitamin C-rich strawberry extracts to soothe and tone lackluster skin. Age-reversing antioxidants like evening primrose, acai, and linseed oils deflect free radicals, while naturally water-resistant plankton makes the formula extra-durable.

Isaac Mizrahi | FABULOUS Isaac Mizrahi Eau de Parfum
Bright opening notes of citrus, peony, and musk unfold to juicy middle notes of mandarin and nectarine. Top notes of smoky bergamot create depth, while jasmine sambac, tuberose, and peony add a touch of femininity. Warm base notes of vanilla, patchouli, and sandalwood complete the alluring mix.

Ruby Wing | Color Changing Nail Polish in Poppy
Formulated with SolarActive® Technology, each polish transitions from one shade to another as soon as you step out into the sunlight and come into contact with UV rays. Walk back indoors, and your nails will return to the original color. Each Ruby Wing polish is non-toxic, vegan, and environmentally safe

LIFESTYLE EXTRA Mighty Leaf Tea | Tea Pouches
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, turn to the rich Vanilla Bean, a full-bodied mix of Ceylon and China black teas flavored with exotic Madagascar vanilla. For a boost of energy, try the Green Tea Tropical, an uplifting blend of exotic fruits. To unwind after a long day, brew a cup of the Chamomile Citrus, formulated with Egyptian chamomile flowers and citrus fruit. The Organic African Nectar is a caffeine-free rooibos enhanced with tropical fruits and blossoms, while the Organic Earl Grey is a black tea blend with a hint of citrusy bergamot.

Review

I really like the COOLA moisturizer and am excited to try the color changing nailpolish (Mine in a poppy pink that is supposed to change into a shade of purple in sunlight). I saw the perfume sample and seriously thought: “Another perfume sample?” Maybe it’s just the type of person I am, but I rarely wear perfume. I’ll need to update my Birchbox page soon and hope to receive less perfume in the future. It’s nice, but I just don’t use it enough, which means the samples last a lot longer than intended (I guess that’s the benefit, right?) I’m indifferent to the “beauty protector,” but will definitely try to incorporate it into my hair routine here and there to see what it can do for my generally frizzy hair.

Share what you received in the comment section below! Or tweet @LitaStarr. I’m always curious about what others get.

 

Strange.

It all happened so fast.

I remember taking a summer off three summers ago to celebrate graduating high school. This summer is my first free summer since then. Three summers ago I went to Canada twice, went to Bama Bound freshman orientation, read many books, saw Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince in theatres, and had a huge birthday party where I lost my camera and turned 18. I learned to let go of many things and, most of all, learned who my true friends were.

At the end of that summer, my grandfather passed away. My family packed our car up and drove back to Canada. I cried more that week than I did the rest of the year. The day we returned to Muscle Shoals from Canada was frantic. I remember throwing all of my things into boxes and bags, because I was moving to Tuscaloosa early the next day.

And that’s how my time at The University of Alabama began. Nine days ago, I completed my journey, and while I am thrilled to have two bachelor’s degrees with my name on them, it feels strange. It’s strange to think about moving away and starting anew. In three months (or less), I will be living in Lincoln, Nebraska and attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I will be in graduate school.

I lived in a dorm room for the last four years. I’ll be living in an apartment or small house for the next two. What a strange thought.

I realize these changes are part of growing up. Don’t get me wrong, I’m very excited about my future, but sometimes it’s a little overwhelming.

Over the last four years, I met hundreds of incredible people and went to more than a dozen new places including California, Texas, and Europe. I witnessed the devastating effects of nature and the triumph of a college town. I also lost a few friends here and there, but again, that’s life.

I learned early on that the worst anyone can say is no. Never be afraid to ask questions. I can proudly say I have been very successful and fortunate thus far in life. I’m almost 22 years old and have accomplished many things. I owe part of my success to my parents. My parents taught and continue to teach me the value of hard work. When I was little, my father gave me a piece of advice that I continue to follow: Always ask questions.

I’ve learned more from asking questions than from any book I have ever read. Most importantly, I learned that the worst anyone can really say is “no.”

So today, I have a few questions to ask you. I know I will learn more from my peers than from anyone else. Take a minute and leave a response with your thoughts on the following:

1. What’s the greatest piece of advice you’ve ever received?
2. Who are your role models and why?
3. What about your life today feels strange?

Thank you for following me on my journey from a scared college freshman (aren’t they all?) to the woman I have become today.

 

April 2013 Birchbox: Tiny Tweaks, Big Results Review

I received my April Birchbox today and was excited to see it had a different look than usual. Around my usual brown Birchbox was a green cardboard label of sorts that advertised Women’s Health magazine, which Birchbox has paired up with this month for their “Tiny Tweaks, Big Results” theme. My expectation was nutrition and health products such as organic lotion and perhaps a small granola bar as I’ve seen in a box in the past. However, I was surprised by some of the items that were included. Here’s what I got in this month’s box:

This month’s theme was “Tiny Tweaks, Big Results.”

Product details
(details taken from the Birchbox website)

Caudalie | Divine Oil
Caudalie’s unique blend of exotic oils—grape, hibiscus, sesame, and argan—joins forces with patented antioxidant grape-seed polyphenols to soften and moisturize skin while restoring the skin’s hydrolipidic (read: moisture) film.

Nexxus | Youth Renewal Rejuvenating Elixir
Moisture is your biggest ally when it comes to fighting the battle against breakage. This rejuvenating elixir is packed with some of nature’s best hydrators, including argan and soybean oils. Keratin and wheat protein add strength and shampoo commercial-worthy bounciness.

StriVectin | StriVectin-SD Eye Concentrate for Wrinkles
A patented molecule called NIA-114+ promotes the production of collagen and elastin, thus reducing the appearance of crow’s feet and the dreaded dark circles.

Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics | Anti-Shine Mattifier
The long-lasting, dense formula soaks up excess surface oil and imparts a flattering, soft-focus finish. Don’t be afraid of the balm’s nigella and pumpkin seed oils—rather than adding shine, they soothe, calm, and repair your complexion.

Beauty Extra Weleda | Body Lotion
There are four varieties to choose from. The Citrus Hydrating lotion imparts dry skin with moisturizing aloe vera, coconut oil, and sesame. The zesty scent comes courtesy of awakening lemon extracts. Made with organic pomegranate seed oil, the antioxidant-rich Pomegranate Regenerating lotion speeds up cell renewal and helps increase skin’s elasticity. The satiny Wild Rose Pampering lotion is made with rosehip seed oil and organic jojoba seed oil to keep skin soft and calm irritation. The creamy Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion relies on a combination of organic mallow extracts, shea butter, and macadamia seed oil. Bonus: each nutrient-packed cream eschews artificial preservatives and parabens.

Review

I’m fairly pleased with this month’s box, but I didn’t think it really fit with the theme I was expecting by the athletic picture from Women’s Health magazine. There was a card inside the box that advertised a year’s subscription, but I’m not really interested in that magazine. I am, however, excited about the beauty extra Weleda body lotion packets. I love lotion and use it daily. The scents I received were “Sea Buckthorn,” “Pomegranate,” and “Wild Rose.” I will definitely be trying them soon. I am also intrigued by the anti-shine mattifier and StriVectin eye concentrate for wrinkles. I feel like I can easily incorporate those two products into my beauty routine to keep my face looking clear. All in all, still a great $10 value.

Share what you received in the comments section below!

 

Goodbye Sausage Pancake Bites.

I’m a big fan of breakfast foods. Although I am guilty of not eating breakfast every day like I should, I will always admit to loving scrambled eggs, bacon, waffles, and their many delicious friends. I enjoy eating breakfast foods at any time of the day. A few months or so ago, I discovered what quickly became my favorite breakfast-type food of all time: Dunkin’ Donuts’ Sausage Pancake Bites.

I realize how unhealthy they are, but I could never get enough. One order came with three sausage bites – I always got two orders. I know how disturbing this makes my eating habits sound, but come on – we’ve all indulged a little extra in great things. Heck, it’s what defines America’s eating habits for many, but I digress.

Yesterday I went to Dunkin’ Donuts with the intent of getting what had become my “usual” thing to get at Dunkin’ Donuts. It had been about two and a half weeks since I had last had the pancake bites. I knew something was wrong when I entered the shop and could not locate the sign advertising the great price of the pancake bites – the reason I had them my first time. I asked the woman behind the counter if I could order some sausage pancake bites. She told me they no longer carried them. I was, and still am, devastated.

I know food is perhaps a silly thing to get upset over, but this particular food item was something I grew to count on for its consistency. Not all things in my life are perfect, as with everyone else, but I knew I could count on those sausage pancake bites to bring a smile to my face to start, or even sometimes end, my day.

So here I am without sausage pancake bites and no idea when or if Dunkin Donuts may ever have them again. Goodbye for now, Sausage Pancake Bites – Until we (hopefully) meet again.

 

Morvern Callar: Thoughts on a Twisted Story

(The following contains some plot spoilers).

Recently, for my Scottish Fiction class, I had to read Alan Warner’s Morvern Callar. There are books in this world one reads and thinks “Did I actually just read this?” Morvern Callar was one of those books.

For the majority of the novel, I feel no sympathy for Morvern. Her boyfriend committed suicide but all she can do is steal his manuscript and money, chop him up into literal pieces, bury him, and move on without telling a single soul. What kind of person does that? Did she think no one would want to know he died? Would care?

Morvern goes out to a crazy party the night after discovering her dead boyfriend in the kitchen and has sex with two men and her best friend, Lanna. – Speaking of Lanna, why is she so carefree all the time? Lanna always lives her life as if there are no consequences. She is also obsessed with Morvern’s deceased boyfriend. While Lanna admitted to sleeping with him on the day before he killed himself, she only admits to that one instance. I think there was something deeper that went on between Lanna and Him.

Lanna is always up for anything. This, to me, shows a major character flaw. Lanna doesn’t really hold on to people, things, or moments in life. Each person she’s with is really just a fling, with the exception of Morvern. Morvern is her rock, her best friend, and the one person she will share literally everything with.

Through all the drugs, booze, and snogging, I think Morvern is coping with her boyfriend’s suicide. She may be using all of the things he had and taking claim of his work, but he did say he loved her. It was his own decision to kill himself and while that is gruesome and sad, I think it is clear that now one really missed Him. Not even Morvern.

While this book is an interesting commentary on development and a bleak society in Scotland, I don’t recommend it to anyone who is light of heart. Warner writes very graphic, though simply written, imagery.

 

March 2013 Birchbox: March Madness Review

I received my March 2013 Birchbox yesterday in the mail. It felt like this box came more quickly than it has in the past, but I suppose March is just marching along faster than I think (… I know I’m hilarious). Regardless, here’s what I got in my March box:

This month’s theme is “March Madness” in light of all the basketball brackets that encompass the month.

Product details

(details taken from the Birchbox website)

LA FRESH | Eco Beauty Acetone-Free Nail Polish Remover
Each travel-friendly pad contains enough remover to get rid of the polish on all ten nails. But it doesn’t stop there: the formula is packed with soothing aloe, glycerin, and Vitamin E, plus horsetail and rosemary extracts to keep our nails strong and healthy. Did we mention that it’s free of sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances?

Marcelle | BB Cream Golden Glow
A blend of powerful antioxidants and soothing aloe and chamomile work together to calm and even skin tone. Flecked with tiny, light-reflecting pigments, this hypo-allergenic, perfume-free, and oil-free formula is perfect for those with sensitive skin.

Vasanti | Brighten Up! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator
This powerful exfoliator mimics the results of professional microdermabrasion, minus the potential for redness and sensitivity. First, papaya enzymes break down dead cells while evening out your skin tone. Next, dermatologist-approved microderm crystals fade the appearance of fine lines and acne scars, leaving skin smooth and free of imperfections. Finally, aloe vera, coconut, and vitamins B and E nourish and soothe skin.

Whish | Shave Crave Shaving Cream
This decadent shave cream from Whish one-ups its competitors. Made in the U.S. with eco-friendly ingredients, the non-drying formula gives you a mighty close shave without leaving legs devoid of moisture. And, unlike its distant peers, it’s designed not to foam up: instead, the rich lotion is chock full of organic and natural botanicals that soften skin. The rich scents include Blueberry, sweet Pomegranate, yummy Almond, and lovely Lavender.

Beauty Extra - Madewell for Birchbox | Emery Board
We generally frown upon PDG (public displays of grooming) but this floral-patterned mini-file is so charming, we’re tempted to make an exception. Inspired by Madewell’s new spring collection, which features sun-ready prints and patterns like this one, the emery board is as practical as it is pretty. The double-sided nail care essential is perfect for daily maintenance and as a quick fix for snags or breaks.

Review

I’m really pleased with the size of the samples this month. I felt like the BB Cream, particularly, was a larger sample size than I’m used to. The Whish Shaving Cream was a nice addition to my box as well and seems like it’s just in time for Spring Break when I will be traveling a little bit. Perfect travel size. Mine came in the blueberry scent, and it smells great. I also like the two nail products. As a girl who does her nails almost every week, I definitely go through my fair share of nail polish remover/wipes/etc. These will be very helpful. And who doesn’t need an emery board in their purse? Thanks, Birchbox.

Share what you received in the comment section below!

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