You might be wondering, “So what in tarnation is this Monday Poll thing anyway!?”
Well, it isn’t exactly a poll. It’s more of a constantly evolving (devolving?), somewhat random list of questions I’ve been putting out to readers every Monday morning for the past seven years. (It’s like a kickstart for your brain.) I’ve always enjoyed reading your answers in the comments, and I hope you enjoy reading mine.
- On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Well, based on the stylish way I’ve been wearing my hair lately, otherwise known as “The Mop,” I should probably say a negative 10, but no, no, I think I’m a little better than that when I put in the effort… So maybe a six or seven? If I’m trying.I can do a few different updos and braids, like the messy reverse French braid I was wearing a couple months ago.
- Flower crowns: do or don’t?
It seems like they get a lot of flak sometimes, but they’re a do for me. I think they’re fun and playful, and even though they sort of dominate the music festival circuit, I wish they would also dominate regular life, because I would not mind it if women walked around everywhere with flower crowns. I think it would be kind of pretty. - What’s something you do at least once a day?
- Feed Tabs some wet food, because if he doesn’t get at least a taste of gravy, he gets very vocal and crabby.
- Brush my teeth
- Drink water
- Check my emails
- Go online
- Put on lotion
- Go outside to breathe some fresh air
- Open a window
- A little cleaning, believe it or not
- Fill in my brows
- Have a cup of tea (usually green tea in the morning and afternoon and Sleepy Time Tea at night)
- Clean off my desk
- I also go through phases (and I’m in one now) where I change some element of my outfit at least once a day, which I want to do at this very moment because I’m currently uncomfortable.
- What were you like as a child?
Very shy and quiet and happy. 🙂 And artistic, too, which wasn’t highly valued in my family…but let’s not even go there now right meow. - What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
’70s rock, but I think that’s partly because I haven’t been exposed to a lot of it. What I have heard, though, hasn’t really connected with me yet.Sometimes when El Hub and I go on our road trips up to Redding, California, we’ll listen to classic rock stations (which they have a lot of up there), and I’ll hear a song and say, “I’ve never heard this song before,” and it’ll be by Pink Floyd or something, and El Hub will turn his head to me with a look of complete shock. “I can’t believe you’ve never heard this song before!”
Nope. And I’m sorry, but it’s not doing anything for me either.
Your turn. 🙂 Just copy and paste the following questions into a comment with your answers. I look forward to reading ’em!
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
4. What were you like as a child?
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Hello, friend. Here’s a hug, one from me and one from Tabs. He asks that you pet him for a bit, but please don’t mind when he starts to look slightly annoyed. That’s just how he looks on Monday mornings.
I hope you had a nice weekend. I have to admit I’m still in weekend mode… I haven’t quite gotten into gear yet. I think I’ll definitely need a second, and probably also a third, cup of green tea.
The weekend went by way too fast… On Saturday night we watched the Mayweather vs. Pacquiao fight with some friends. I’m kind of bummed about how it turned out, but it was still fun to get together. And then yesterday I just did a lot of high-intensity relaxing around the house.
I started watching this cool BBC documentary series on Netflix called Egypt. It’s part documentary, part, sort of, Lifetime Channel historical movie. 🙂 Anyway, I’ve been totally sucked in.
I hope you’re having an easy, calm Monday so far. I’ll be right back… Can I bring you a cup of tea? Something with caffeine, perhaps?
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
Petra says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Maybe a five. I got a fair repertoar but mostly cant be bothered
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? Like them. Simple but gorgeous
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Weekdays – drink coffee, check my email, work. weekends are total anachy, i just float with it
4. What were you like as a child? Super shy and very stubborn
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Electronic stuff of all kinds… noise in my book…
Hugs to you and pets and belly rubs for tabs. Celebrating the hubs bday today so it is a good monday. Pancakes for breakfast and for dinner we had burgers at our fav place. Now we are headed home to curl up on the couch and watch GoT
Karen says
Hi Petra,
Hugs back to you, and happy birthday to your hubby! Did you guys watch GoT yet? What do you think of this season so far?
Carolyn says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Probably only a 2 or 3 at best. I can do lots of different braids but I usually only do straight, bun or pony. So lazy. But being a makeup artist I did take a few courses on hair styling so I’ve done some pretty fancy stuff on other people’s hair.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
DON’T. So don’t for me ever! Lots of cutesy girls out there can absolutely pull it off, not me.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
My list is mostly similar to yours, brush your teeth, put on lotion, all that stuff. Take the dog for a walk, give her lots of treats. Totally boring.
4. What were you like as a child?
I’ve always been incredibly shy. For the entire first year of school my teacher thought I was mute! I’m still that way now in my 30’s. Being someone who has battled with depression my entire life, social anxiety is probably one of the most consistent and hard symptoms to live with. Most of my friends will tell you they thought I was a b*tch when they first met me but it’s just my shyness. But I’ve actually always been the kid making everyone laugh and have fun.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Jazz. I love music and pretty much have it on all the time. It doesn’t matter if it’s classical, rap, pop, rock. Jazz I just don’t understand. I get that you just kinda listen and let it take you along but it’s just not for me.
Karen says
Hi Carolyn,
That’s so cool that you’re a makeup artist! How long have you been doing it?
Happy Monday to you!
Agata says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Maybe 6? I am good with curls and some kind of updos, braids-not so much!
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
I like them but I think they look stupid on me.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
-drink coffee (more like 4 or 5 times)
– check my email/IG/Twitter/blog
– check your blog
– lift dumbbells
– browse Ulta/Sephora/Loft website
4. What were you like as a child?
Very very shy and quiet and insecure…I think a lot of that is still there…
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Heavy metal.
Happy Monday, Karen. I volunteered to work today since I took a day off yesterday for a friend’s baby shower and now I am freaking out that I have so much to do and the day is half way through already…
On an unrelated note, I was browsing Kate Spade’s website and they have flamingo accessories- earrings included. You need to get these! http://www.katespade.com/bird%27s-the-word-studs/WBRUA197,en_US,pd.html?dwvar_WBRUA197_color=650&cgid=ks-jewelry-view-all#start=3&cgid=ks-jewelry-view-all 🙂
Karen says
Hey Agata,
I hope that the rest of your day went OK.
And OH HELLO TO THOSE FLAMINGOS! 🙂
Stephanie says
I think I’m on my fourth cup of white tea. Great weekend, but now I’m sick! 🙁 Do not like.
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
I’ll give myself a solid 4. I can french and dutch braid my hair and I’m trying more braids and twists, but I have no idea what to do with salon instruments like curling irons (ha!) and hair spray (ahhh), and my hair has always fought buns, so I’m not sure how those work.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
So much do, unless people have allergies to the flowers… but in general I’m pro- all things with flowers.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
Take my asthma meds. Even on SUPER SICK days, this is the one thing I do at least once a day, every day. I would not survive without them. Pet my cat, Pepper, if not full out snuggle with her.
4. What were you like as a child?
I had an overactive imagination and was the quiet kid who analyzed the situation before acting… even when it was “I’m at the playground, what should I do first?” I also read a lot, which I continue to this day.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
I dunno, country music? Oh! Bluegrass! I had to listen to it a lot one summer and it just didn’t do it for me. Also, I have friends who are super into Irish folk music, and while I like it occasionally, I just don’t get why they are SO into it.
Karen says
Oh no, Stephanie! I hope that you feel better soon. Do you have a cold? Or perhaps it’s allergies?
Stephanie says
It’s a cold, which triggered my asthma. It would not be a bad cold if it weren’t for my asthma! I’m working from home today to try and avoid asthma triggers. It’s really hard. Not breathing well is sooooo frustrating, and I hope it doesn’t get worse.
Kwmechelle says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)? Total 10. I learned mostly from my mom when I was a kid. Oh and my sister-cuz (that’s what we call each other) taught me how to braid hair when I was a kid. I only just started goin to a salon regularly this year for the first time in eons. And I’m usually the one friends turn to to do their hair. =)
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? DO! I think their beautiful, hipster, and I gotta figure out a way to rock them.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Read! I’m still a bookworm with a penchant for politics. I worked in politics & government affairs for the majority of my career. With a BA in poli sci & a masters in public admin I love staying abreast of current events.
4. What were you like as a child? Bossy(shocking since I’m the oldest & only girl), smart, bookworm & tree climber. You could find me in a tree reading a book any given summer day once upon a time. Creative (which I still am) & a bit introverted, though I loved being silly (and still do 😉
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Heavy metal? It leaves with a headache & scratching my head.
Btw, I’m on the last leg of my trip and it wraps up today. Tomorrow it’s back to reality. But I also treated myself to a mani-pedi before I hit the road yesterday. A crucial decision you helped me decide. I’m rocking a beautiful powder blue on the nails (blue is my fave color of all time) and a gorgeous Barney-like purple on mah toes. Both give me my color fix!
Karen says
Enjoy the last bits of your trip, friend. Glad to hear that you were able to treat yourself to a mani/pedi before heading home. These things are important! Safe travels!
P.S. What was the highlight of your trip?
Kwmechelle says
It prolly sounds cheesy, but the highlight of my trip was reconnecting with friends/family/loved ones who I haven’t seen and/or spoken to in a long time. Usually, when I travel home, I’m in & out. There’s not nearly enough time to spend with all the folks I wanna see and everything is always rushed. But not this time. I purposely planned my trip so that I could see everyone. And it felt great. Time really is precious & valuable. So grateful I was able to make a trip like this one. Had a fantastic time!
Karen says
That’s not cheesy at all. Life is too short and you have to grab those moments when you can see your loved ones when you can! I hope you took a lot of pictures. You should put them in a scrapbook!
Alex says
1) I would say about 7 – I’m really good at doing blow outs, and they look really good… pin curls and all that jazz. When it comes to braids however, that’s a whole different story…
2) I’d say that I like flower crowns but only if they’re made out of real flowers… then I think that they look fun and girly and playful, but when they’re made out of plastic it’s just a bit meh.
3) What do I do at least once a day:
-Check Snapchat/Twitter/Social media in general
-Brush my teeth
-Scrub my face
-Shower
-Wash my hair
-Checkout all my fav beauty blogs (this one being my faveof course ;))
-Put on lipstick/lipgloss
-Pray 🙂
4) As a child, I was a little powerhouse – everyone used to love me for my sense of humor, my jokes and I was an incredibly talented singer. I used to have dozens and hundreds of friends and I was also a massive geek. Now I would say that I’m a total opposite of what I used to be.. I’m shy and quiet, I could count my friends on one hand, and I haven’t sang in years. I’m still a geek though, so it’s all good. 😉
5) I don’t get rock music and all sort of heavy metal kind of stuff. I really don’t like jazz or blues either.
Karen says
Aww, thank you Alex! Have a wonderful week. 🙂
Lulle says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Probably a 2. I really suck at hair styling, I can’t even do a blowout…
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
Don’t, except maybe on social occasions? I’d place them in the same category as tiaras.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
Drink Earl Grey tea. Right now I’m having this giant mug of lavender earl grey! It’s my fuel, some people are addicted to coffee, I depend on Earl Grey tea.
4. What were you like as a child?
Kind of extrovert until 5, then shy, good at school, socially awkward.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Rap. I get the culture that goes around it, I just don’t get it as a music genre.
Karen says
You can do a blowout. Seriously! It just takes practice. Also, the trick is to do a rough blow the hair until it’s about 80% dry without any brushes, and then go back and finish the rest of the drying with a brush. Er, did that make any sense at all? Anyway, my stylist taught me this and it makes all the difference.
Lulle says
I tried that but still… not good. I don’t know if it’s just me but my arms get super tired after 2 minutes of blowout or trying to do a braid. I get all cranky and usually it doesn’t end well, lol!
The good news is that I have naturally wavy hair and since “beach waves” are cool these days, I look trendy with my air dried mop, hehehe!
Karen says
Beach waves are AWESOME. I’m so glad they’re in style! In the ’90s I had such a hard time taming my hair… Yay for waves!
What products do you use to get a beachy look?
Leah G. says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
I have very curly hair so updos are easy because the hair stays in place. I would not say my updos are elaborate though. 🙂
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? Do if at a fair or festival.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Play with Maximus my tuxedo tabby.
4. What were you like as a child? I got along with everyone. I spent a lot of time playing in the woods. I grew up in a neighborhood with mostly boys so there was a lot of time in tree forts or playing kick ball.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? I’m not a fan of jazz.
Karen says
Aww, Maximus! Have you guys played any games of fetch lately? 🙂
Leah G. says
Karen,
Good memory! 🙂 We play fetch often. Pretty much every day he leaves us a toy on the front door mat. That’s the last place he saw us in the morning and he knows we’ll see it right when we get home.
I hope you and Tabs have a great day today!
-Leah
Karen says
Maximus the tuxedo tabby is a memorable guy. 🙂 How long have you two been together? Tabs and I are going on 8 years!
Off topic, but I keep meaning to tell you that with the LOFT maxi dress, I do wear a strapless bra. I found one from Macy’s by Wacoal that I like a lot. It’s very comfortable and it actually stays up! And it comes with straps so that I can convert it to a regular bra if I want.
Happy Tuesday to you and Maximus!
Leah G. says
Hi Karen,
Maximus turned 15 in April. Hard to believe but zooming around the house keeps him young!
Good to know about the strapless bra–and the fact that it’s comfortable is a win-win! 🙂
Spring has finally spring here in Boston. I wore a skirt without tights yesterday for the first time for the season. Thank goodness for self-tanner! I found a tanner that’s natural that works really well in case anyone asks you (just for body not for face). I got it on Amazon. It’s the Glow lotion by Nature’s Gate (in medium tone). I typically just use it on my legs a couple times per week. It also does not have a super strong smell which is an added bonus.
Karen says
Oh, wow! Senior kitteh! And have you had him since he was a kitten? Tabs thinks gravy is the secret to his youthful demeanor. LOL
I just looked up the style of the bra in case you wanted it and it’s the “Red Carpet” one. It’s kind of pricey ($60) but I figure having the straps makes it like I’m getting two bras in one.
Thanks for the self tanner rec — I’m pretty sure lots of the gals here use it. Actually I might try it myself. My legs are pretty pale compared to my arms right now!
Leah G. says
Yeah, I figure a tanner that works without any harsh chemicals is the way to go. 🙂
Here’s to senior kitties!
Karen says
I’ve never used a self tanner but hey better late than never! 🙂
Shannon says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
hmmm… I’d say 6-8 on my hair, depending on the day (when I’m trying), and like 8 or 9 when doing someone else’s hair. I LOVED doing updos when I was in high school and college, and actually leaned heavily towards going to beauty school. Maybe if music doesn’t work out, I’ll finally become a hairdresser 🙂
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
ooh! do, please. Especially if they’re understated and hippie-ish.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
-go to the bathroom
-drink water
-have a cup of coffee (usually just one – otherwise it upsets my tummy a bit)
-take allergy medicine (these days, anyways)
4. What were you like as a child?
sweet, kind, shy around strangers but way too talkative around my friends 🙂 probably a bit of a know-it-all… and I was super into hugs. Hugs for everybody! It was practically my motto.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
I hesitate to say it, but… most of the music from the 80’s (and very early 90’s). I know! Horrible. I’ve finally started appreciating Michael Jackson, but even that took me a while. Music from that era just doesn’t grab me. It all sounds horrifically cheesy. I think it’s the reverbs and crappy use of synths. There are, of course, exceptions; but the general “sound” of the pop/rock from the 80’s is just NOT my thing.
Karen says
OMG. Shannon! A lot of ’80s music is totally cheesy, true. But there’s lots of good stuff in there! I probably have a soft spot for it because I grew up during that era. 🙂
Trisha says
Hi, Karen!
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Oh gosh, a 2? I’m terrible. I only just started getting good at PONY TAILS in the last few years. I just never learned any of that stuff.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
Aww, they’re cute. I’m pro-crown and pro-tiara in general, though.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
Lots of stuff like brushing my teeth. A non-conventional thing is…take vitamins?
4. What were you like as a child?
I hated sharing toys. I was also super impatient, head-strong and independent. I’m still those last two things.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Classic country. Also blues and jazz. I’m sure there are good things from all of those genres, but the cliche stuff from each I just don’t like.
Karen says
Hi Trisha,
I think with hair a lot of it is practice. If you want to start styles maybe start with a simple braid? They’re easy to do and get your hair out of your face fast. I’m wearing two right now! One low on one each side of my head, like Pippi Longstocking. LOL!
LindaLibraLoca says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
I´d go for 4. i can do all kinds of braids, but am hopeless at styling them any other way.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
Do! But i have never been brace enough to actually wear one outside my flat.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
Drink green tea. It gets me going in the mornings.
Apart from that: Drink water, eat an apple, brush my teeth/my hair, do my skincare routine (I am religious about that), smell my daughters hair.
4. What were you like as a child?
Always reading, not many friends, but quite content with that situation. Happy overall.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Most kinds of Electronic. I just need someone singing…
As I read this, it is already Monday evening here in Germany, so I´ll pass on the tea, or else I won’t be able to sleep.
And I am proud to tell you, we finally got a lamp for our bedroom and already hung it in my attempt to get more organized. Took us only 1,5 years, lol.
Karen says
Oh congratulations! What does the lamp look like?
We need to get lamps too. The thing is — I get really stressed out when it comes to lamp shopping. It’s so completely irrational, too.
LindaLibraLoca says
Me too. I always look for the perfect lamp, even though I know that after maybe two weeks I won’t notice it anymore until it stops working.
What worked for us was going seperatly this time. I went and made a pre-selection, took pictures which we discussed over a cup of tea and then went straight back and bought the one we decided on.
Fancie says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Umm like a solid 6 or 7 lol. I haven’t been to a salon in years so I’d say I’m pretty skilled at doing my own hair. I don’t know how to braid though. I can do individual braids but I can’t conrow to save my life lol
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
I say they’re a do! They can look super cute when done right. I’m not sure I could pull one off though
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
Read blogs. I have to read something daily. Force of habit.
4. What were you like as a child?
Playful and imaginative. I lived in my own world and still do lol
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Country. I’ve tried but it’s the only genre I can’t get jiggy with
Karen says
Hi Fancie,
Do you read any other blogs besides beauty blogs? I would love to see what you like to read!
Tatiana says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)? About a 5. Hair is just not my thing. I can wash it, comb it and blow it dry. Some days it looks pretty good and others… well let’s not go there.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? No opinion.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? The usual. Shower, brush teeth. Go out side for walks. My fur baby loves her canned food, too. She usually just licks off the gravy. Chai or green tea in the morning. I always, always, always hug my husband good-bye in the morning and hello in the evening when he gets home.
4. What were you like as a child? Creative (also not encouraged in my family), happy and social. I was Daddy’s little girl. Spoiled!
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?Hmm, maybe country western? Gotta say I love 70s rock. I was in high school then. Just don’t play Led Zepplin’s Stairway to Heaven.
Karen says
Hey Tatiana,
Can you please recommend some good 70s rock bands to listen to? Thank you! From that era I do know that I like Boston’s More Than a Feeling. That’s about it though!
Susan says
I was little in the 70’s, but have always loved 70’s rock. Maybe it’s from sitting and listening to what all the “big girls” at our dance recitals listened to while I was waiting my turn to go on…
I’m not a Pink Floyd or Led Zeppelin fan really, but I like Bad Company and Boston and, of course, Journey and Styx. Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band are awesome, as well… just a few suggestions to try 🙂
Efrain says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
I’d say a 5, I think the main problem is the lack of experience doing my hair (just letting it grow for the first time, I want my curls to be at my shoulders and they aren’t even half of my neck *sigh*)
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
DO! If you hadn’t seen on Instagram I posted a photo of my hair full of flowers that two friends put on.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
-Brush my teeth.
-Put sandals, slippers or crocs when I return home.
-Kiss my family.
-Pet Max.
-Go online.
-Drink coffee.
-Use skincare, SPF the most important.
4. What were you like as a child?
Chatty, very chatty, since kindergarten I’ve had problem with talking a lot, also I’d say sociable.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Heavy metal I hate it I think they’re yelling at me and get out of my nerves.
Guess who has started to watch Game of Thrones? Yes me, I think tomorrow I’d end the first season (I’m on chapter three). Also have you seen the new Vans with flamingos I’m sure you’d love them.
Sending more hugs to you and pettings to Tabs, hope you’re right.
Karen says
Hey Efrain,
If when your curls get long you need any help please let me know! I have wavy hair and it took me a long time to figure out how to make the most of it. The hardest part I’d say is finding a stylist who gets curly hair…But once you’ve found one you’re halfway there.
And yes, I’ve seen those Vans. I have them on my wish list.
Let me know when you get to THAT ONE PART of season one. You’ll know when you get there. 🙂
Efrain says
If you have any idea of how style it, I receive any idea; the good part is that I’ve already found a stylist that really knows how to cut it so I’m halfway there 😉
You know every time I see cats and now flamingos I think of you.
I’ve just seen chapter 6 and I’m a total Daenerys’ fan (I’m not sure if she will become a total bitch but I love it). About that one part almost every chapter has a part that I keep saying OMG.
Efrain says
Two corrections:
-I receive any
-I love her
Karen says
You’re halfway there then! Next time you go in for a cut talk to your stylist about curly hair styling. For me, I find the easiest way is often the best. After I get out of the shower, I gently blot the hair dry with a towel (aggressive drying disrupts the curls). Then I some product in it, and let it air dry. Also conditioner washing totally helps! I’m a huge fan of it.
OK, so, I’ll wait until you get to THAT PART. When you do, we’ll talk. LOL
Julia Alkaseltzer says
Happy Monday, Karen! Here’s to another fabulous week!!
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
I would make it a 5. I have thick, wavy hair and right now it’s super long. Still learning how to maintain and care for it. Straightening it is always easiest (especially with my Chi, ohh I love it so!) and I know how to French braid. I guess I’m still looking for the right products to fight the frizz
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
Do, do, DO! I would totally love to make that work with my hair and everyday style.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
-Drink coffee
-Catch up on social media
-Stare at makeup lovingly
4. What were you like as a child?
Shy and quiet. I’m still that, though less shy and more outgoing!
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
I don’t get metal or scream-o. It seems like the vocalist is singing his lungs out to oblivion. Perhaps when someone wants to express their anger, or just high-octane adrenaline in music, this type of music is it?.. That’s me trying to understand.
Karen says
Hi Julia,
Yes, here’s to another great week! *raises tea cup*
OK, re: hair frizz. Have you ever tried conditioner washing? It’s really helped me to reduce the amount of frizz in my wavy hair.
Julia Alkaseltzer says
I haven’t really tried that. But my hair seems to be frizziest in the summer time. It’s already heating up hear in Phoenix being in the 80’s/90’s. I will definitely give that a try! Thanks for the tip!
Karen says
You’re welcome. I started conditioner washing years ago and it’s made such a difference in my hair. It takes a while to get used to it though.
Debra says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)? 5. I have a lot of hair and not enough willingness to do much with it (except cut it when it gets in my way!). So ponytail, banana clip, barrettes when I get fancy!
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? Nope. My body chemistry attracts bees so I do not need to add encouragement.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Stretch; drink tea; make sure the pets are okay; check the front patio for any UPS boxes (none today!)
4. What were you like as a child? I have been described as a “feeling” child, also observant, a minx, gullible, and quietly persistent. I cannot forget about the week before Christmas when I quite intentionally went into the secret crawl space on the 2nd floor and found all of my Christmas presents.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Yes, that 70s stuff. Except I was a teenager then. It didn’t much for me. You’ve probably heard more of it than I have because I tuned it out and listened to Glenn Miller or Sarah Vaughan.
Karen says
Hey Debra,
I kind of love that you mentioned banana clips. Take me back in time! I haven’t worn one since the ’80s although I see them still on occasion.
Happy Monday to you!
Trude says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Maybe a 5? I can do a decent blowout or diffuse-dry, and have gotten much better at curling in the last couple years, but I’ve never been dexterous enough for braiding or anything more complicated that a little pomp updo.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
So cute on some women in the right setting, but it’s just not me.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
Text the BF. We’re constantly checking in.
4. What were you like as a child?
Bossy!
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
There’s really nothing I don’t understand the attraction for, even if it’s not something I like personally.
Karen says
Hi Trude,
If you ever need curling help let me know. I do OK with a curling iron.
Hope you’re having a nice Monday so far! It’s sunny but cool here in Northern California today.
Stephanie says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
I’m probably a solid 5 with styling my hair, but updo’s and things like that? A 2. I almost never wear my hair up because my ears stick out and I think pulling it up just draws attention to my Dumbo ears.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? For me, a don’t. I’m way too old they aren’t my style. On the right person they’re cute.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
Online shopping/browsing, check my email, feed the cats, apply/reapply lipstick and the other usual stuff.
4. What were you like as a child? Stubborn, shy, insecure and very introverted.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Rap, jazz and I hate to say it, but a lot of the newer stuff just doesn’t work for me. I LOVE 70’s & 80’s music. I think some of the best rock songs came out of the 70’s. I have XM radio and I always listen to Classic Rewind. My husband is older than me so he grew up with that music and it always reminds him of some story from his youth.
Ginger G. says
Karen, last night I made the strawberry salad with strawberry basil dressing (I think you posted it last week), and it’s my new favorite!! 🙂 Thanks for posting that!
Karen says
Hi Ginger,
Oh, so glad you liked it! Isn’t the dressing super good? Did you serve anything else with your meal?
Happy Monday!
Ginger says
Lol, fish sticks. 🙂 Would Tabs approve? 😉
Karen says
That sounds REALLY good. I love fish sticks! Did you make them from scratch?
Renata says
Missed being here!
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Now my hair is short and I can do many things with it. I am very proud how I manage to keep it shiny and cute using no more than 3 products! I’d say 8.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? They’re fine, but once you’re over 21, I’d recommend wear than with a bit more care in more-than-informal situations.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Light incense sticks? Do it every night.
4. What were you like as a child? I was a fat kid, very shy and way more mature than my average friends. I was quiet, had my wits and read compulsively – all the time.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Electronic music get to my nerves. The TV here was broadcasting an electronic music festival for THREE DAYS and I could not say which day was which because the bloody songs were ALL the same and seriously, you have to be really high to find that amusing after 20 minutes. But hey!, I am old… 😉 I might be wrong!
Maggie says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
1 probably. I can do the ponytail! But anything that involves use of a bobby pin–then I’m hopeless. I can’t pin hair (like when twisting hair into a bun). I watch people just effortlessly slide pins in while I’m struggle to even get farther than 30% in. sigh…I wish I could take a class on hair styling basics.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
Why not? As long as the flowers aren’t wilted.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
Brush my teeth
Wash my face
4. What were you like as a child?
Pushy.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Most music I think I just don’t get. Classical is what I veer toward–not that I “get” that either.
Rachel R. says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)? I can’t do a thing with my hair. About a 3…on a good day.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? Not a “do” for me personally, but they’re really cute on some people.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Dress, put on makeup, check email, some kind of housework, take care of my kids.
4. What were you like as a child? Highly intelligent, mature, shy, anxious, and sad. I had hard life.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Raggae
Holly says
Hey there! It’s sunny here today & extremely windy; there’s a thunderstorm on the way. I watched my nieces today & between the cold wind & the cold they’ve been passing back & forth, it was a good day to watch movies!
And here are my poll answers:
1. I am *maybe* a 2 on the hair scale; I wash, towel dry, spritz the Garnier De-Constructed Beach Chic to give my very thick, very fine & very straight hair a bit of texture & boost, & off I go. The bottle says it’s for creating beachy waves but it works amazingly–and smells great!
2. Flower crowns are wonderful to see on others & I wouldn’t mind wearing one at a summer wedding or picnic. I live in the Seattle area & the hipster women in the area frequently sport lovely ones.
3. Some of the things I have to do at least once a day are drink coffee, drink ice water, read whatever book (or three) I’m currently in the middle of, check Facebook to see what my siblings & nieces & nephews are up to, & check your blog!
4. I was a quiet, observant, bookish, artistic, smart kid & I as often bored in school. While I’m more outgoing as an adult, I have the same traits.
5. I just don’t get country music & acid jazz!
Thanks for posting the questions each week, I enjoy seeing the various answers!
CL says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Unfortunately, only about 1-2.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
I’d love to see this become something all women would do. It would be uplifting to see large numbers of latter-day flower-children!
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Complain about the temperature at my office. It’s too hot year-round.
4. What were you like as a child? Introverted, artistic, and intelligent.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Hip-hop and rap.
A lot of 70s music is great – just avoid most heavy-metal and disco. Check out Simon & Garfunkel, Paul Simon, Supertramp, Al Stewart, Kansas, Chicago, ABBA, The Beatles, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, and the Eagles.
kristen @ glambunctious says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)? Oh Jesus, is there a negative set of numbers? I’m going with -2.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? For me personally, they don’t really jibe with office work so they’re a no for me. However, I kind of love them on free spirited types who don’t work the conservative 9-to-5 gig! They’re very ’60s in spirit.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Apply lip balm. That is the one certainty!
4. What were you like as a child? Fun, happy, a little shy, and very good at entertaining myself for hours with coloring, playing school, rollerskating, etc.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Karen Monterichard! 70’s rock is some of the greatest stuff on the planet! My god, “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple? I hear the opening riff and the whole song is in my head for days – and I don’t mind! I can honestly say that I appreciate all music, but my heart belongs to the ’80s. No other decade boasted such upbeat, happy songs that just make you want to dance any time you hear them! I also feel like a lot of new things were tried during the’80s and there was so much growth in the music field. Rap-rock collabs (Run DMC and Aerosmith), electro pop, and let’s not forget the keytar! 😉 I also love oldies and motown so much! And ’90s rap! But…if I had to pick one genre to never listen to again, I guess mega twangy/folksy country. Even though I’m from Georgia, I’m definitely more rock n’ roll than country.
kristen @ glambunctious says
PS: Since I know you love ’80s music, I had to mention that you need the Romy & Michele’s High School Reunion soundtrack! I just got it from half.com and YAS! ’80s AMAZEMENT DU JOUR!
Caroline says
1. On a scale of 1-10…. 0. I am not good doing my hair at all.
2. flower crowns….nice! Not on me, but for those who are younger and can pull it off, yay!
3. At least once a day….wash my face.
4. As a child…shy and a bit dorky. 🙂
5. country.
Kiss & Make-up says
Answering the Monday poll on Tuesday, who’s badder than me??? 🙂
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids). Probably 3…
?
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? Do if you’re the type for it. Which I am not.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Check my mailbox for new packages.
4. What were you like as a child? A happy overachiever.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Jazz.
Jennifer says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)? Let’s see, if I’ve had a really good night’s sleep and I haven’t had so much caffeine that my hands shake and if my hair is in an ideal state–not too clean, not too dirty, I’m a 1.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? I’d love to say do but they just scream Coachella to me. At 45, I just feel I’d resemble a middle-aged flower girl at a sad wedding.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? drink water
4. What were you like as a child? quiet, reserved, very, very, very daydreamy, my head was always elsewhere, which irritated my mother to no end. but that’s a poll for another day.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? techno
Icequeen81 says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)?
Worthless
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t?
what are they?
3. What’s something you do at least once a day?
feed the dog, plays with them feed the rooster, loot at students work, go to internet
4. What were you like as a child?friendly my mom was afraid for that
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get?
Bachata I hateee it
Stephanie Smith says
1. On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you with your hair (with 10 being salon-caliber fancy updos and intricate braids)? I’m a straight up 2. Lol! I have long hair that I brush daily and keep down because ponytails have been hurting my head. I can use a curling wand, but I don’t use one that often.
2. Flower crowns: do or don’t? Don’t. I think they’re pretty, but they feel costumey and that’s not for me.
3. What’s something you do at least once a day? Doodle, drink coffee, kiss my Pug on the lips, contemplate changing my nail polish, put on sunscreen.
4. What were you like as a child? Quiet, shy, I swam in my Grandma’s pool a lot, I was outside a lot, skinny, tan, happy.
5. What’s a kind of music you just don’t get? Non-mainstream hardcore punk. Noise isn’t music.