Roadblock.
I hit a bad one this afternoon, ladies, with lots of crying, a debilitating panic attack, hyperventilating, cold sweats and stomach clutching — the whole shebang!
Today started out well. I felt fine this morning, but then I started to think about everything on my to-do list and what I want to finish by Monday (when we head out of town for the holidays), and I death spiraled out of control.
It was NOT one of my better days. 🙁
Makeup to the rescue!
I do feel a little better now that I’ve distracted myself with drugstore beauty…
CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains, $8 each
CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain swatches from left to right: Everbloom Kiss, Berry Smooch, Bit of Blossom, Teasing Blush, Flirty Nude ($8 each)
Clairol Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Products from left to right: Spray Gel, Shampoo, Conditioner ($4 each)
Kings and Queens Cinnamon Orange Body Scrub ($11)
These are some of the things on my calendar to test. I’ll let you know which of them has the greatest positive impact on my mood.
How was your Tuesday? Tell me the highlight of your day. 🙂
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
Samantha says
Awful. My highlight was my making a wish at 11:11, maybe a better today tomorrow!!
Roxan says
i always wanted to try the covergirl outlast, im glad your trying it and cant wait to read a review!
Shiny says
Awwww take care and feel better… things get crazy around the holidays but remember a week for now you’ll be so enjoying yourself.
The highlight of my day was the kiss I got from my pup first thing this morning, he can be a brat but when he’s being cute he is REALLY cute.
Jen says
Sorry to hear you had a bad day!
Highlight of my day: I had a final today for my music class, and I was running late. I knew she was going to start the exam with a listening portion, so I was worried I was gonna miss it. She usually plays each excerpt twice. Bit of back story: I’m really good at recognizing a piece of music after only a few seconds of it. So, when I walked in, I heard the last few seconds of Richard Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra. Turns out it was the first listening excerpt, and she had already played it once. Still, I got the right answer and because it was only the first one, I didn’t miss the others! Wheee!
Hope tomorrow is a better day!
Yvette says
I am rooting for CG Lipstains to be the best mood lifter! Have been wanting to try it myself. Hope you feel better =)
maeve says
I love the lipstain! i dont remember which shade i have..but i do love it. it tastes yummy and sweet and lasts FOREVER. however it is very bold and its really hard to make it sheer enough for work or school…it dries super quickly and doesnt spread at all.
Tiffany says
Oh no, sorry you had a bad day, Karen! Hang in there!
That scrub sounds delish…
My day was crap as well. I guess the highlight was heading to lunch with some coworkers and getting a yummy sub and raspberry diet coke 🙂
Emma says
LOVE lipstain–its fresh and looks natural for school. My fave is Everbloom Kiss!
Hmmm….highlight of my day! Oh! When my crush said yes to go to the winter dance with me!
Feel better Karen! Things will get better 🙂
Kajal Couture says
Oh man this post could not have come at a better time! I would reach out and give you an e-hug, cuz I know I need one too! I have the most evil soon-to-be mother-in-law, and she is making my life and my fiance’s life miserable.
I might copy your therapy and play with the new eyeilners I got myself for xmas.
.-= Kajal Couture’s last blog post… Aveda Enbrightenment Brightening Correcting Serum Review and a Drugstore Deal =-.
Steph B says
Breathe. Stretch. Rub Tabs’ tummy. Apply more lip gloss. Give yourself a break.
First thing I do when I get into this sort of jam is review my to do list more critically. I can usually find something that is a want to do instead of a must do and put that at the bottom of the list under a dashed line. Just knowing it has become optional usually gives me the breathing room to get it all done. And, if I don’t, I know I can pick up where I left off after the deadline.
I’m always intrigued by these kinds of lips stains but also always have at least one dry flake on my lips to ruin the look. I also wonder if they’ll look too stark.
Voxy says
Hi Karen,
I’m so sorry to hear about your horrible day! I had one too (yesterday, actually, but it’s dragged on into today). Anyway, I enjoy reading your blog, and I hope you’re feeling better! Agreed that makeup can make almost anything better; today I went out and bought some brushes and some nail polish, just to cheer myself up. Wishing you the very best!
Voxy
Didi says
O Karen – don’t feel too bad. You’ve got plenty of time to complete your todo list. Just take 1 task at a time.
I’m rooting for the CG Lipstains to be the ones to lift your spirit ( I know they would mine 🙂
They remind me of when I was a little girl and used magic markers to draw on my baby cousin – good times…
.-= Didi’s last blog post… The Body Shop Cyber Monday 2009 Parcel =-.
Phoi says
I’m sorry you had a bad day Karen! I hope the week only gets better for you!
Stacie says
Oh Karen, I’m sorry! That’s why I try not to think about money too hard–full on panic attack. Like someone else said, give yourself a break. It’ll get better! The holidays are always crazy. Remember being a kid, back when it was all fun? Sigh. Oh, and the highlight of my day was a good hair day with minimal frizz. Unfortunately, I’m at work now (shh, don’t tell!), so I had to pull it back in a ponytail. So the curl has fallen mostly flat. Oh well!
Glosslizard says
I’m so sorry you’re feeling overwhelmed! Just take a deep breath, read the comments, and know that there are plenty of cyber-gal-pals behind you! 🙂
I’m feeling a little overwhelmed myself (’tis the season after all) so the highlight of my day was going to aikido! Just getting on the mat and moving around without thinking too much was divine, and I feel so much more relaxed now! Also, Hubby was there and announced our anniversary, so I had an “Aawww, he’s so sweet!” moment!
P.S. On days like that I tend to sit down and spend 45 minutes putting on makeup! It relaxes me and gives me a breather, plus afterwards I have a boost in self-confidence! Yay, makeup!
Jenna says
I hope you’re feeling better. That’s how I’m feeling with an incomplete 30 page term paper and 2 exams coming up. A quick power nap and cuddling with pets helps!
Christina says
I’m sorry you had a bad day! Hope makeup play and maybe relaxing with Tabs would help!
Highlight of my day? Feeling semi-productive after coffee and getting dressed. Apparently, sweats makes for an unproductive day (as evidenced by this past weekend and MOnday).
Briana says
The highlight of my day today was finishing my 3rd exam of the semester. Only one more to go! I hope tomorrow’s a better day for you!
.-= Briana’s last blog post… DePhoMo #8 through #14 =-.
Izzy says
Outlast never lasted for me. I hope you find a way to make it work for you.
Marisol says
Oh no… sorry that you felt that way. I am on the same boat with you. But I keep reminding myself that I can only do so much. This vacation is about enjoying my time with family and I shouldn’t stress out before hand.
hang in there!
.-= Marisol’s last blog post… A Day of Ups & Downs =-.
Makeupmorsels says
I’m sorry 🙁 I’ve been having more meltdowns than usual too lately. My highlight is knowing the holidays are really REALLY soon. i need them. badly.
my mom really likes the CG lipstain it flirty nude hope it works out well for you 🙂
.-= Makeupmorsels’s last blog post… Fragrance Requests: Paloma Picasso =-.
Hafsa says
Feel better dear 🙁 We have ALL been there, and it will get better. Remember that at the end of the day, we’re only human, and can do so much, so as long as the intention is there, the rest will take care of itself!
I’ve wanted to try the lipstains, can’t wait to see what you think of them, and perhaps some lip pics? As for the shampoo, i’ve been wanting to try this, so hopefully it’ll get a good review 🙂
Keep your chin up, you can do it!!!
.-= Hafsa’s last blog post… Cinderella’s Carriage =-.
Ess says
Things will be better, sometimes we have to have those moments..
I have tried that Herbal Essences conditioner and really liked it.
Highlight of Tuesday? Finally decided that I like my new hair color, an almost black dark brown, which is the darkest its ever been.
Mona says
oh no!!! i hope you’re feeling better!
oogling at the covergirl stains… mmmhhh
amy says
The Covergirl Outlast lipstains look cute and they remind me of my felt markers. It makes me want to do some makeup art in my sketch book! I saw the stains at the pharmacy this past summer but didn’t pick any up because I never really like Cover Girl lip products.
.-= amy’s last blog post… NOTD (Nails of the Day): Coach Exclusive Holiday Nailpolish Set =-.
Kypris says
Hmm, the shampoo and conditioner intrigue me! Do update us… I’m currently using the straightening one because it seemed to have a good effect, but I have hair that’s between straight and wavy, if that makes any sense, so I always like to try new products… that is, once I’ve used up my old one.
Christy says
Don’t worry Karen, you’ll get it all done in time 🙂 Just one step at a time and you’ll be on your way.
I had a lip stain from Joe Cosmetics, but have somehow lost in sometime between August to now. It was pretty similar to the Cover Girl variety, but I found it bled most of the time.
Today was a good day. I baked mint chocolate cupcakes. I went to the casino with my mom & aunt. I won $60 at the casino and I found a dollar while walking my dog today. 🙂
.-= Christy’s last blog post… FOTD: Kat Von D True Love Palette & MAC Siss =-.
Molly says
Sorry you had a bad one dearie! Highlight of my day was drawing a crayon t-rex with tiger stripes “with a sword!!” for the four year old boy I babysit. THAT is a deadly critter. 😀
I LOVE that lipstain (flirty nude)- I use it all the time, and I love how its just a marker, really. Goes where you stick it. Needs a purple-y stain or gloss to tone down the REDness of it.
Catherine says
Aww, sorry you had a stressful day… mine wasn’t so great either. I woke up on the wrong side of the bed, my nails had sheetmarks, my skin and makeup didn’t look great, I had to go to the post office (soooo frustrating near the holidays), I got two exam scores back, and I had a huge amount of drama concerning my last two grad school applications (missing transcript, missing rec, non-submitting browser).
On the bright side I did put on makeup for the first time in days, I’m currently re-doing my nails and SO took me to get some gelato after the post office. =)
Hope tomorrow’s looking up for you. =)
.-= Catherine’s last blog post… Urban Decay Deluxe Shadow Box & FOTD =-.
Pansy says
I love how you constantly update your blog. It gives me something to read all the time. My Tuesday was great because I bought some really comfortable shoes at ALDO. They’re my first pair of heels. The worse part of today was when I just threw up in my friend’s NEW car an hour ago.
Anyway, I hope you’re feeling better. If you make hot lemonade and add some honey, it’s really soothing.
.-= Pansy’s last blog post… Baking bread with… a rice cooker? =-.
Karen B says
I had a good day and then my day was spoiled by a mistake of the administration at my school. Not fun because now I won’t get my holiday money 🙁
Sarah says
I’m sorry you’re stressing – you should watch Muppet’s Christmas Carol. I watch it every year with my mom, and it always cheers me up! Also, whenever I get super stressed, I just do one thing on my list. It makes me feel accomplished, and then I’ve done at least something useful! That almost always destresses me.
The highlight of my day was going to the jewelers and finding the perfect ring for my Christmas gift! Although, we shouldn’t have bothered with the second jeweler – they may have had vintage/estate jewelry but the clerk didn’t know ANYTHING about them. I figured the owner would have at least left cheat sheets for the employees since its a local store, but apparently not…
Joan says
I agree with Sarah! Watch the muppets christmas carol! Singing lettuce what’s not to love! Hope you feel better soon and don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re not a robot.
My highlight of the day is that I get to pick out a Tabs off my very own. The BF caved in and gave me a kitty for my Bday! Sweet boy!
have a merry (muppet) christmas!
xoxo Joan
SDpfeiffy says
Try to remember that the day after a really crummy day is always better than the day before. Or almost always!
On a similar note, I realized last week that I only had 14 days to get my baking done, all 20 batches of cookies, bread, and snacks. Of those 20 days, 4 are not work days, and of those 4 days, 2 were free (last weekend). so i did what any normal person would do-took a day off from work. Then I procrastinated, that *entire* day. Finally, I made a list that included steps such as “mix dough” and “take a break” so that I can cross many items off in a short amount of time. Works for me! but you’re probably not a procrastinator, just swamped, so I’m sending hope that your Wednesday is better and that you can develop the ability to stop time and catch up.
Wow, lots and lots of words to say, “It’s ok, tomorrow will be better.”
gio says
I’m sorry you had a bad day, I hope you are feeling better.
.-= gio’s last blog post… Is Mineral Oil Bad for Skin? =-.
NINA says
I hope today is better for all of us, Karen. 🙂
My Tuesday was fine …. until I started my drive home. Its usually a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic, but lately its been going more on 40 minutes because of roadwork at an adjoining freeway. Ive kinda gotten used to that but yesterday — everyone was just nasty on the road: cutting people off, blocking entrances/exits to the freeway, honking and just generally driving how one shouldnt drive.
I was stressed out and started to miss my old 10 minute drive home before we moved. It was a little pity party — I was cold and miserable and just wanted to get home … didnt get home til almost an hour after and I was tired and grumpy and cranky.
Trying to get to sleep, I guess I just got to thinking that I shouldnt let the way people drive affect me…and should just focus on keeping safe and driving right. Ill try to do that today, and save myself from the misery of yesterday’s drive home.
Hang in there, the sun always shines… 🙂
heyhey says
“And this to shall pass”.
Tis the season of freakouts, I tell you. I had one last week. Hope you are doing better.
My highlight was taking a literal victory walk after completing this design project at work. Just me, the downtown lunchtime streets, a cup of warm chai from the indi cafe across the street. Simultaneously relaxing and energizing.
Kim says
It’s just that time of year for everyone to have their head spinning with worries. I know we’re not alone. I’m in the midst of finishing my last final exam (tonight, woo!), packing to move next weekend (yes, Christmas weekend… shoot me now.), and make sure I remember to pick up my new apartment key and turn utilities on. Not only that but I also have to make sure that I’ve got the essentials since I’ve been living with roommates ever since I moved out of my mom’s home when I was 18. Things like bathroom, toilet, and tile cleaner. Things like plungers and dish soap. Things that NOBODY EVER THINKS ABOUT! Lol. I’m serious; I keep finding myself saying “crap, I still need to get ____” every day.
Don’t worry; keep your head up and things will be fine (Eventually!). Spread some holiday cheer or spoil yourself. Do whatever small things that make you feel better, whether it’s taking a bath or cleaning your shower LOL. We’re all right there with you. <3
Toni says
Karen, I am so sorry that you had a bad day. I have had a low grade headache since last Thursday, so I think that I am in the same stress boat that you are. I hope that things are better today. There’s nothing like a little drugstore pick-me-up to help a girl feel better. Thanks for swatching the lip stains! I’ll have to check out the hair care products next time I’m at Target.
Take care!
Lana says
I am so sorry you had a bad day Karen *hugs*
Just remember your 3 things a day rule – that has helped me out so much and prevented many crying spells. Don’t look ahead, just take things one day at a time and you will be just fine! 🙂
Lisa S. says
Ah Karen, I didn’t get a chance to see this post till this morning (Wednesday). It will get better!
Anything that doesn’t involve bankruptcy, a trip to the hospital or “mom I’m pregnant” is totally manageable. I’m gonna pull the “I’m older and have more perspective” card. Well I am older, I think I’m maybe 11 years older than you, run my own business and totally know about panic, hyperventilating and wishing I could throw all this stuff on someone else. Breath!, Eat something, because believe it or or not a nasty tummy is better if it has a bit of food in it. That way if the heaves start, you have something to heave. (And believe me you don’t want dry heaves!) And crying is good! It lets out the bad stuff and you feel cleansed after. Annnd as long as you get the major stuff done, will it really matter if you forget something small? And it does look as if you already understand the above stuff I said You already went with the “retail therapy” step! ;0)
Trude says
I hear you on thinking about the to-do list! Can’t believe its the week before Christmas and the tree is only half-decorated and I have an entire album to put together! I really like the Outlast Lip Stains, they DO last, but have yet to find something that goes over them to keep my lips moisturized without pulling at the color. My highlight today was getting my brand new iMac. Debt has never felt so good. 😀
.-= Trude’s last blog post… I Heart Faces Photo Challenge =-.
Sarah says
I actually use the Outlast Lip stain as a cheek stain and it works awesome!!
Susan says
Hope your day is better today. This time of year is so overwhelming with trying to make the “perfect” holiday for everyone. Just try to take some time for a bubble bath and to hug Tabs and your hubby, and know it will be ok. Merry Christmas to you, Karen!
mary says
Baby, just pull out the nutella and a spoon, and relax.
Lorraine says
I have that Mary Engelbreit T-shirt 🙂 Hugs and remember to breathe Karen. Maybe one or two things will not get done, it will be alright. Tickles to Tabs ☼
Victoria R. says
oh geez we’ve all had those days i’m sure. whenever there’s lots to be done its like it multiplies in your mind and comes down like an avalanche. i’m sure you know just as well as i do, that writing is so theraputic, and turning that seemingly impossible runaway list of things into a do-able list that you can wrap your mind around helps immensely! best of luck with it all . ahh i’m a day behind on reading i want to know how that scrub was!!
Karen says
Thank you everyone for your nice comments!
Hugs to you all, and a big kitty kiss from Tabs.
Megan **** says
I was in the same boat you were yesterday. I’m sorry you were upset, but the holidays definitely put loads of stress on us all. It always gets better! 🙂 I hope you have an amazingly wonderful remainder of the week! The highlight of my day was relaxing at home, getting it squeaky clean (OCD always makes me clean like crazy when I have “those kinds of days”..), & playing with my oh-so-beloved makeup collection! Ha! 🙂 I just hope the sun starts coming back out again soon. It sure puts me in a *brighter* mood. Northern California just hasn’t been the same lately, but it’s still the best place to be! 🙂
Sorry this comment is a day late. Oh yes, & btw, I can’t waaiit until your upcaominf giveaway! Wooooo! 🙂 So exciting!! *
Megan **** says
I was in the same boat you were yesterday. I’m sorry you were upset, but the holidays definitely put loads of stress on us all. It always gets better! 🙂 I hope you have an amazingly wonderful remainder of the week! The highlight of my day was relaxing at home, getting it squeaky clean (OCD always makes me clean like crazy when I have “those kinds of days”..), & playing with my oh-so-beloved makeup collection! Ha! 🙂 I just hope the sun starts coming back out again soon. It sure puts me in a *brighter* mood. Northern California just hasn’t been the same lately, but it’s still the best place to be! 🙂
Sorry this comment is a day late. Oh yes, & btw, I can’t waaiit until your upcoming giveaway! Wooooo! 🙂 So exciting!! *
Sara says
oh no! 🙁 i know exactly how that feels, and i hate it! hope you’re feeling better soon 🙂
penelope says
my Tuesday was awesome. i had a half day at school and i got my new phone. today was OK and im enjoying my new phone, the Razzle
scarlettholly says
Aw you poor thing! We all have days like that. Try using the Covey quadrant which is impact and effort based I think. Well, it’s a way of figuring out how to manage your to-do list based on the impact of the task. V useful.
Have a good one!
.-= scarlettholly’s last blog post… Tuesday Mood =-.
Marce says
Awww Karen, that’s not too good! How are you feeling now? When I get a bit upset I just chill out in my backyard with Pepa. Her silence is soothing, of course she can’t talk but it’s as though animals in general send good vibes to you 🙂 And maybe some chocolate – Nutella, preferably!
The stains look great, can’t wait to read your thoughts about them!
.-= Marce’s last blog post… Pin Up Look – Tagged – Contests =-.
Komal says
Ohh I totally understand the to do list anxiety. I have had an outstanding task for longer than I want to admit (I am ashamed!), and even though I have legitimate reasons for it, every time I go to check my email I have a panic attack that i’ve taken too long and its too late to get it done now. I FREAK OUT and want to cry whenever I think of it.
I feel your pain! Small steps!
Hope your tomorrow is better 🙂
Houstonblogger says
I’m so sorry you suffer from these. I have them pretty badly and when they hit, it is awful. Like someone has stolen “me” from “me”. I don’t know how to explain it, but it is by far the worst fear I have ever experienced. Please know you are not alone. Know you will always be ok. Know you will get through it and live to see another day….Hugs.
.-= Houstonblogger’s last blog post… Har Press Release-MLS November Update =-.