Movie Review - The Hunger Games

I thought of writing this review immediately after seeing the movie at 12:01 AM on Thursday, March 23rd. However I realized that I needed to see it again because that night I, like many others, was caught up in the hype and excitement that was the anticipation of The Hunger Games.  So here's my review only mere minutes after getting out of the theater for a second viewing. I still maintain that director Gary Ross is primarily responsible for the failings of this movie.  While after discussing the film with a fellow enthusiast, I came...

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Deal of the Day

Tis The Season Watch Genuine mother-of-pearl dial. Silvertone case with glitter accents (Snowflake) or enamel-like details (Snowman). Leather-look strap, 9" L. Regular price $14.99Current Price $7.98 Order Now While Supplies La...

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Spring Break Hiatus

Yes it's close enough to spring and the spring break I get at my day job for me to consider taking a spring break hiatus from the blog. While you won't see any new posts for the next few days, possibly even weeks, that doesn't mean that I won't be diligently working on new material. We still have the continuation of the Hidden Hair Threat coming down the pipeline.  Also there will be interviews and makeover photos. We simply need some time to get these events and ideas fully formed and typed to be posted. Look forward to reading new material...

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Deal of the Day

Platina4 Cluster Ring  White topaz. Platina4 is a unique patented alloy that includes four precious metals – platinum, palladium, silver and gold. It’s tarnish resistant and more resistant to scratches than 14K gold.  Available in sizes 5, 6, 8, 9 and 10. Regular price $199.99 Current Price $99.98 Order Now While Supplies Last...

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Losing Wait

Absolutely loving the blog post Losing Wait from Mary Kay's CMO Sheryl Adkins-Green! Obviously she's not talking about the weight that most people resolve to lose every new year, but the "wait" she mentions is just as if not more important.I've decided to replace my "wait" with "S.T.A.R.T" also...• S= Start smaller to achieve bigger. In other words, I break my goal down into manageable and achievable segments, instead of a big chunk that will overwhelm me.• T= Target a specific time each day to work on my goal, even if it’s only 30 minutes. I...

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Deal of the Day

Summer Beach Hat A big-brimmed hat takes you to the beach in style! Brim, 17" diam. One size fits most. Paper/lurex.  Regular price $20.00Current Price $7.98 Order Now While Supplies La...

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Deal of the Day

mark Very Violet Top Pick this top for the frill of it, or because of its undeniably pretty pinky-purple color. 100% cotton. Available in Small, Medium, Large and XL. Regular Price $26.00 Current Price $13.32 Order Now While Supplies Last....

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The Hidden Hair Threat - Part 2

Well we've identified that hard water might be the culprit behind your hair and also your skin issues. For right now however, we going to focus on the hair in this series. So what exactly makes water hard?  Depending upon the source of your water, it may naturally contain dissolved minerals ranging from calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, and silica.  Each of these dissolved minerals can build up on your hair shaft just like over time they build up on the interior of your plumbing or around your faucets and shower heads.  Go ahead...

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Deal of the Day

NATURALS Yellow Canvas Bag The perfect place to store your favorite NATURALS collection. PVC. 9 1/2" H x 11 1/2" W. Regular Price $10.00Current Price $5.32 Order Now While Supplies La...

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Recently Featured...

It's been a while since this post has made an appearance on the blog, but it's back today due to another mention on Doctor Oz. On yesterday's (Feb. 9th) episode, the Avon Anew Clinical Advanced Retexturizing Peel was recommended by a dermatologist for treating wrinkles.  She suggested using the product once a week and progressing up to twice a week if you did not experience any skin irritation. Watch the video. Now while she mentioned in the segment that it costs $25, currently it's on...

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Deal of the Day

NAILWEAR PRO Nail Enamel in Vivid Violet  High-gloss shine. Salon-quality precision brush. No formaldehyde, toluene or phthalates. .4 fl. oz Regular Price: $5.00  Current Price: $2.99  Order Now While Supplies Last.&nb...

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Deal of the Day

Woven Tunic Top in Misses in Size S(6-8) Polyester georgette tunic with 3/4-length bell sleeves. Includes 100% cotton cami. Machine wash and dry.  Regular price $24.99Current Price $15.32 Order Now While Supplies La...

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Ten Songs to Add to Your Workout Playlist

Ten Songs to Add to Your Workout Playlist Ten Songs to Add to Your Workout Playlist By Nathanel Jefferson Working out can be a chore for many people, but with the right music it can be an enjoyable and fast experience. There are millions of songs that would make an amazing workout playlist, but these have been chosen for their overall appeal. Everyone's taste in music may be different, but you should be able to find one song you like. Below are 10 songs that you should have in your playlist. In no particular order of course! 10. Puff Daddy...

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The Hidden Hair Threat - Part 1

You may have it and not even be aware of it.  Your hair seems dull and dry no matter what you put on it and you've tried a number of different products. Your chemical processes (perms, relaxers, coloring, highlighting) seem to take longer or don't come out just right.  Then there's the most dreaded hair problems of unsightly flaking and thinning hair.  You search for the right product, the right stylist, the right diagnosis but can never seem to find the solution.  There may be one hidden threat that you're overlooking...

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Fragrance of the Month - Feb 2012

This month's fragrance is Far Away from Avon. It is in the Oriental fragrance family.  Avon describes it as a mix of "dreamy florals, spiced amber and spirit-moving woods".  This fragrance really lives up to its name as it goes on with a light but rich scent that makes you think of being on an exotic vacation somewhere far away (no pun intended) with that special someone. If you'd like to experience it, I'll be giving away free samples all month lo...

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Deal of the Day

ANEW Youth-Awakening LipstickLuxuriously smooth color. Clinically proven performance. Lips look up to 5 years younger.* .106 oz. net wt. *After 4 weeks of use, based on average wrinkle severity. Available in Sandy Beige only.Regular price $10.00Current Price $4.98 ORDER NOW While supplies la...

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Deal of the Day

Beauty Blotters Oil-Absorbing Tissues 75 tissues that instantly absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup.  Tissue size 100 mm x 76 mm.   Regular price $5.00Current Price $1.50  Order Now While Supplies La...

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Deal of the Day

Halloween Ghost Watch Enamel-like silvertone watch. Glow-in-the-dark markings on dial. Faux-leather strap, 9" L. Watch for adult use only. Regular price $14.99Current Price $12.98 Order Now While Supplies La...

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Sorry for the Temporary Absence of...

A lot of the posts lately have been just the Daily Deals, but don't think that I'm not busy creating new valuable content similar to the 2010 video embedded in the Brazilian Keratin Treatment post. Here are a few of the things you can look forward to in the near future: There will be a series of posts chronicling my process and the results of a hair treatment I'm formulating. A how-to series for the ladies on creating your own 15 minute face, from cleansing to out the door. Budget and savings advice. A new fragrance of the month. Possibly an...

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Deal of the Day

Platina4 Key Necklace Platina4 key with diamond accents. 19" L necklace. Available in goldtone and white.Regular price $179.99Current Price $119.98 Order Now While Supplies La...

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Deal of the Day

SuperShock Mascara Get yourself some extreme volume! Thickening base coat and volumizing mascara in one. Up to 12X more volume. .35 oz. net wt.  Available in Black only.  Regular Price: $9.00 Current Price: $4.50 Get It Now. While Supplies La...

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Clean Your Stinky Head Scarf...and other things - Part 4

And now the conclusion of the series... We've addressed the head scarves, the combs and brushes, and makeup tools.  Now let's cover the last items on the original list. Nail clippers, tweezers and other metal tools Begin by cleaning the item with soap & water or any cleaner you prefer but make sure you dry it thoroughly.  Drying thoroughly is essential to avoid rusting and the dulling of any sharp edges. For that extra level of clean called disinfected, you can soak the items in...

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Deal of the Day

Today's deal is going to be a little different as the Avon deals are sold out already early this morning. In an effort to get an idea of exactly how many people are checking out this blog, the first person to comment on any post that has been made in 2012 will receive a product we currently retail* of their choosing up to a $30 value for free. Happy Commenting! *Remember we currently carry Avon and Mary Kay produc...

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Reaching New Year's Resolutions & Goals with Compass

Well over the past few weeks I indulged the idea of being a Compass Representative, however unfortunately it would overload an already overwhelming schedule.  Yet that does not change my belief in affordable life coaching for all women.  After all I'm still a Compass client. So for any interested in getting help with setting and reaching their goals this year, please visit the Compass site.  You can check out the available MAPs (Monthly Action Plans) that give you the framework for creating change and moving towards the life you...

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Deal of the Day

mark Divinely Draped Top With a little bit of stretch and a body-conscious shape, this white top is simply heavenly. 95% viscose/5% spandex. Imported. 24 1/2" from highest point on shoulder to hem(on medium). Available sizes: S, M, L, XL Regular Price $28.00 Current Price $17.99 ORDER NOW. While supplies la...

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Deal of the Day

CONAIR® Mini Wet to Dry Straightener Quick on-the-go styling! On/off setting. Dual voltage. 6 1/4" L x 1" W x 1 1/4" H. Regular  Price $29.99Current Price $14.99 Order Now While Supplies La...

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2010 Brazilian Keratin Treatment

As you'll see I was not pleased with the results, but perhaps you'll learn something that'll help you have a better outcom...

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Deal of the Day (Double Deal)

Today there are two deals. ANEW Ultimate Set ANEW ULTIMATE 6-piece set includes: Age Repair Day Cream SPF 25 Try-It Size, Age Repair Day Cream SPF 25 Full Size, 1.7 fl. oz. Total Body Age Defy Cream, 6.7 fl. oz. Age Repair Night Cream Try-It Size .5 fl. oz. Age Repair Night Cream Full Size, 1.7 fl. oz. Quilted Bag: Polyester. 10 3/4” W x 7” H (excluding handle) x 4 1/2” D. Regular Price $69 Current Price $50 Tis the Season 3-Layer Necklace Three-tiered colored-wire necklace with...

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Deal of the Day

Ladies, here's a special deal linked to the free Life Makeovers we've posted about recently. The only thing it will cost you is about 30 minutes of your time. What's 30 minutes for the opportunity to remodel your life? Free Avon SuperSHOCK Mascara (Regular Price $9.00) to anyone who attends either of the Life Makeover parties happening on Thursday. Just enter that you were invited by "Marie Edwards" on the registration form. If you want to find out more about life makeovers, Compass...

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Deal of the Day

Sterling Silver Classic Gem Ring Faceted colored topaz center stone with two white topaz accent stones. Available: Ruby in size 11, Sapphire in sizes 5 or 11, and Emerald in 5, 10, or 11. regular price $59.99 Current Price $24.98 Order Now While Supplies Last!...

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Deal of the Day

   CONAIR® You Curl Styling IronFeatures: • 30-second instant heat • Ultra-high Heat setting at 400°F/204°C • LED indicator lights • Auto shut-off • Professional-length line cord. Limited 5-year warranty.  regular price $39.99Current Price $19.99  Order Now! While supplies last...

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Deal of the Day

A repeat deal so snag it the second time around. Tall Cable Knit Boot Cable-knit boot with faux-suede upper and faux-fur pom-poms, collar and lining. Indoor/outdoor sole. Available in Blue sizes 6M, 7M, and 8M only. regular brochure price $29.99 Current Price $26.65 Order now. While supplies la...

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This year, don't make resolutions - make permanent change!

You’re Invited to a Life MakeOver Party! Not because you need it,But because you deserve it. Learn how you can, make over your time, your finances, your body, your health, your relationships, or your purpose. Learn how you can make over any area of your life so you can live the  life you were meant to live. Date:  January 16 at 8:30 PM (EST)Location: www.freeconferencing.comPhone:  (559) 546-1880 Access Code: 256170# RSVP:  I'm ready to makeover...

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A Guide to Guy's Grooming

We heard a scary, little secret. Some guys don't put much effort into caring for their facial skin. Guess what guys? Females notice things like that and it can make a difference. Check out this Guide to Guy's Grooming with not a girly pink package in sight. So for those of you on top of your skincare because of your lady, no more using her products; you now can have your o...

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Deal of the Day

Revive your skin anywhere, anytime. MK Facial Cleansing Cloths cleanse, exfoliate and refresh in one easy step and are perfect for carrying in a bag, briefcase or tote to use whenever you want a fresh face. Just a little water releases the rich lather. Plus, they’re formulated for dry to oily skin types. Facial Cleansing Clothspack of 30Regular price $15.00Current price $5.00 Order Now! While supplies la...

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Inaugural Life Makeover Party

Visit me at: www.mylifecompass.com/MsMarie You’re Invited to a Life MakeOver Party! Not because you need it,But because you deserve it. Learn how you can ,make over your time, your finances, your body, your health, your relationships, or your purpose. Learn how you can make over any area of your life so you can live the  life you were meant to live. Date:  January 9 at 9 PM (EST)Location: https://www.freeconferencing.com/meetings/539-149-316Phone:...

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Deal of the Day

CONAIR® Hi-Styles™ Perfect for proms, special occasions or just plain stylish fun! Quick and easy to use. Holds securely in place. Blends with your hair color. Great for all hair types! Plastic. 5" L x 1 1/4" W. Imported. regular price $5.99Current Price $1.99 Order Now. While supplies la...

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Natural Hair YouTube Channel recommendation

In the future once we work out some video-editing program issues, E-Class Ventures will be posting how-to videos for hair, make-up, and skin care. Some of them have already been made but unfortunately not edited yet. Here are some photos of a braided style done by the founder to enjoy until then. Front view of swirling cornrows Side view (cornrows done with hair extensions) Rear view Until our channel is up and running, for our black females out there rocking the natural do's like ECV's founder,...

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Deal of the Day

Today's Deal courtesy of Avon Platina4 Forever Pink Earrings Cushion-cut created pink sapphires in a Platina4 setting. Platina4 is a unique patented alloy that includes four precious metals - platinum, palladium, silver and gold. It's tarnish resistant and more resistant to scratches than 14K gold. regular price $49.99Current Price $39.98 Order Now While Supplies Las...

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Fragrance of the Month - Introduction

This year ECV will be highlighting a different fragrance each month.  Let's begin by giving you a little background knowledge about fragrance families. In the beginning there were four basic families:  Floral, Oriental, Woody and Fresh. Now when shopping for a fragrance you may see or hear from the lady at the sales counter a number of other descriptions such as fruity, fresh or spicy. Here we're going to keep it simple and stick to the original four. This month we picked the fragrance...

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Ruben Studdard at the Ritz Theatre

Just sharing for all the real R&B lovers that Ruben Studdard will be performing at the Ritz Theatre here in Jacksonville on January 13th. Check out all the tour dat...

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The Birth of a Video Game

ECV founder here! I think the best thing about teaching children is the endless possibilities ahead of them and seeing them actually reach for those possibilities. It's inspiring and adds to the teacher's mental wellness when they actually recognize the ambition some students have. Take for example Hunter: I won't tell too much about him, but he's special and talented! He's designing a first person shooter video game set during World War I and allowing others to follow him through the process.  If video games are your thing or you've always...

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Deal of the Day

TODAY'S DEAL COURTESY OF AVON mark Fierce Fedora  Top off an outfit with a fun fedora! Each fedora comes with 3 interchangeable bands - coral, black and navy floral! Hat: 100% linen, Band: 100% polyester.   Regular Brochure Price: $16.00 Current Price: $9.99 While supplies last! Order n...

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Daily Deals

Starting today we'll be offering daily deals on a variety of products and, in the near future, services.  Each product will be while supplies last, so check back early and often so you don't miss a great one! Check out today's deal featuring Avon produc...

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