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About Me
- Amanda Awesome
- I'm awesome, nerdy,and I love vintage things. My family is convinced that I was born in the wrong decade...but I'm pretty sure I am right where I need to be.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Battle of the Brands: Dry Shampoo
Being a *bottle* red head is hard work. I try not to wash my hair everyday because washing my hair strips it of natural oils that protect my hair and washes out my beloved hair color. Of course it takes dedication not to reach for the shampoo every day. Recently, I started using a dry shampoo to take the edge off. I loved it, so I tried several brands to find the best, most cost effective brand that works for me.
A word about dry shampooing....you will need a natural or boar bristle brush to get the best results with ANY dry shampoo. Make the investment and get a boar bristle brush, as that type of brush will help in removing excess powder in your hair, which can make your hair look white.
Also, dry shampoos will make your hair look matte. I suggest using something like Biosilk to remedy that side effect.
First up, the old fashioned dry shampoo: Cornstarch.
I tried this a total of two times, so please take that into consideration. I sprinkled a few table spoons of cornstarch into my hair at the roots and then massaged in. I let it sit for about 15 minutes and then brushed it out. It seemed to work fine, but the application was really really messy, so I went searching for something that wouldn't be so messy.
Batiste Dry Shampoo $7.49 (I paid $6.99 with my Sally's card.)
5.3 oz
Product cost breakdown: $1.32 per oz. (based on what I paid)
I was impressed with this dry shampoo. I put it in before going to bed, massaged it in and then woke up the next morning with far less greasy hair. I brushed out the excess with my bristle brush and was very pleased with the result. The product smells nice too, so that is a big plus. The biggest problem I have with this product is the amount and the price. I paid a good bit of money for a bottle that only lasted me two and a half weeks of use. I have really greasy hair, so I had to use a good bit with each application to combat the greasies. Other than that one setback, this is a great dry shampoo and I would recommend it to friends.
4 out of 5 stars.
Beyond the Zone Rock On Dry Shampoo $6.99 ($6.49 with Sally's card.)
6 oz.
Product cost breakdown: $1.08 per oz (Based on what I paid)
I used this dry shampoo in the same manner I used the Batiste Dry Shampoo. I really like the smell of this dry shampoo, its hard to describe...it just smells really good to me. I also noticed that this dry shampoo added volume to my hair, where as the Batiste did not. It also comes in a bigger bottle and I was able to get three and a half weeks of use out of one bottle. It seemed like it took less of this product to make my hair feel clean. It is also cheaper than the Batiste as well. The only downside to this product is that there has been mention of the nozzle clogging, though I did not have that problem.
4 1/2 out of 5 stars
Tresemme Fresh Start Dry Shampoo $4.49 (Target)
5.7 oz.
Product cost breakdown: $0.78 per oz.
I had really high hopes for this dry shampoo. I thought I had found a dry shampoo that would work for less than $1 an oz! I was so excited when I got this. (I also got the Fresh Start Refreshing Mist, cause I was so excited, and it is just as worthless.) I used it as I normally do with dry shampoos, applying at night and then brushing out in the morning....but that proved to be a massive mistake. I had to spend ALL night smelling the dry shampoo, which only smells like chemicals and alcohol. Not to be defeated, I switched to using it in the morning, which was just as bad. I think this product could have been good if it had not been for the awful smell. As far as the dry shampoo it self was concerned, it was only mediocre at getting the oil out of my hair....but honestly, I could not get past the smell. I didn't even finish the bottle. It's sitting half full in my bathroom, taking up space. I am going to see if I can pawn it off on one of my friends who has been naughty this year. Tresemme usually has great affordable products, but this one just fell really flat. So disappointed.
2 out of 5 stars.
The Final Victor:
Beyond the Zone Rock On Dry Shampoo
It's affordable, smells good, and gets my hair looking clean.
What more can I ask for?
Do you use dry shampoos? If so, have you tried these? What did you think? Do you have any recommendations for me to try?
A word about dry shampooing....you will need a natural or boar bristle brush to get the best results with ANY dry shampoo. Make the investment and get a boar bristle brush, as that type of brush will help in removing excess powder in your hair, which can make your hair look white.
Also, dry shampoos will make your hair look matte. I suggest using something like Biosilk to remedy that side effect.
First up, the old fashioned dry shampoo: Cornstarch.
I tried this a total of two times, so please take that into consideration. I sprinkled a few table spoons of cornstarch into my hair at the roots and then massaged in. I let it sit for about 15 minutes and then brushed it out. It seemed to work fine, but the application was really really messy, so I went searching for something that wouldn't be so messy.
Batiste Dry Shampoo $7.49 (I paid $6.99 with my Sally's card.)
5.3 oz
Product cost breakdown: $1.32 per oz. (based on what I paid)
I was impressed with this dry shampoo. I put it in before going to bed, massaged it in and then woke up the next morning with far less greasy hair. I brushed out the excess with my bristle brush and was very pleased with the result. The product smells nice too, so that is a big plus. The biggest problem I have with this product is the amount and the price. I paid a good bit of money for a bottle that only lasted me two and a half weeks of use. I have really greasy hair, so I had to use a good bit with each application to combat the greasies. Other than that one setback, this is a great dry shampoo and I would recommend it to friends.
4 out of 5 stars.
Beyond the Zone Rock On Dry Shampoo $6.99 ($6.49 with Sally's card.)
6 oz.
Product cost breakdown: $1.08 per oz (Based on what I paid)
I used this dry shampoo in the same manner I used the Batiste Dry Shampoo. I really like the smell of this dry shampoo, its hard to describe...it just smells really good to me. I also noticed that this dry shampoo added volume to my hair, where as the Batiste did not. It also comes in a bigger bottle and I was able to get three and a half weeks of use out of one bottle. It seemed like it took less of this product to make my hair feel clean. It is also cheaper than the Batiste as well. The only downside to this product is that there has been mention of the nozzle clogging, though I did not have that problem.
4 1/2 out of 5 stars
Tresemme Fresh Start Dry Shampoo $4.49 (Target)
5.7 oz.
Product cost breakdown: $0.78 per oz.
I had really high hopes for this dry shampoo. I thought I had found a dry shampoo that would work for less than $1 an oz! I was so excited when I got this. (I also got the Fresh Start Refreshing Mist, cause I was so excited, and it is just as worthless.) I used it as I normally do with dry shampoos, applying at night and then brushing out in the morning....but that proved to be a massive mistake. I had to spend ALL night smelling the dry shampoo, which only smells like chemicals and alcohol. Not to be defeated, I switched to using it in the morning, which was just as bad. I think this product could have been good if it had not been for the awful smell. As far as the dry shampoo it self was concerned, it was only mediocre at getting the oil out of my hair....but honestly, I could not get past the smell. I didn't even finish the bottle. It's sitting half full in my bathroom, taking up space. I am going to see if I can pawn it off on one of my friends who has been naughty this year. Tresemme usually has great affordable products, but this one just fell really flat. So disappointed.
2 out of 5 stars.
The Final Victor:
Beyond the Zone Rock On Dry Shampoo
It's affordable, smells good, and gets my hair looking clean.
What more can I ask for?
Do you use dry shampoos? If so, have you tried these? What did you think? Do you have any recommendations for me to try?
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Eventually, I'll get there...
Today's entry is more an update of sorts. Things have been a little crazy at home as of late, with the swiftly approaching holidays and all.
I finally got the hard drive replaced in my lap top, so I should be up and running in full swing after the Thanksgiving Holiday.
I recently got a sewing cabinet for Big Doris, so I've been sewing like no body's business. I am working really hard to get my "Travel Dress" completed. I was inspired by Mode Merr's The Jet Setter Dress so I am working on Vogue Pattern V8280 in a grey suiting that I bought from Joann's. Hopefully, I'll have it finished by this weekend, as I really want to use the left over leopard velboa I have floating around in my fabric stash to work on a brush roll for my growing collection of make up brushes...I'd also like to make a removable collar for my black jacket.
Here is a tut from the lovely Casey (plus a bonus giveaway) for a Peter Pan style collar
However, since my coat has a pointed collar, I'll probably use Colette Pattern's collar tut just because it matches the collar of my jacket already. It will take some of the guess work out of it.
Of course, I will be doing it with leopard print, as it will match my leopard print pill box that I made for my last travel adventure.
In addition to all that sewing, I will most likely spend lots of time this weekend cleaning, and running around my apartment in a tizzy trying to get my life in order.
Oh, yesterday I got my hair cut, which was an adventure. I got swing/swoopy bangs cut in, so we will see how that works out. I accidentally forgot to tell the girl to leave my layers long, so now I have short layers....ugh. I always forget something. it's not a big deal. Hair grows.
I've yet to set it so I have no idea how it will work out. Today I wore it in a modern style just to see how it looks when I am feeling lazy. I'm not totally in love with it, but I think I can deal with it for now.
The upside to yesterday was that I got a really awesome planner from my friend Kat. She saw it in B&N and decided that I had to have it. I am in love with it. It has all these great vintage pictures with catty little sayings like "There's no household chore that a little Merlot doesn't make easier" and 'A stitch in time deserves wine." Kat is such a doll and I am super lucky to have the awesome friends that I have.
I finally got the hard drive replaced in my lap top, so I should be up and running in full swing after the Thanksgiving Holiday.
I recently got a sewing cabinet for Big Doris, so I've been sewing like no body's business. I am working really hard to get my "Travel Dress" completed. I was inspired by Mode Merr's The Jet Setter Dress so I am working on Vogue Pattern V8280 in a grey suiting that I bought from Joann's. Hopefully, I'll have it finished by this weekend, as I really want to use the left over leopard velboa I have floating around in my fabric stash to work on a brush roll for my growing collection of make up brushes...I'd also like to make a removable collar for my black jacket.
Here is a tut from the lovely Casey (plus a bonus giveaway) for a Peter Pan style collar
However, since my coat has a pointed collar, I'll probably use Colette Pattern's collar tut just because it matches the collar of my jacket already. It will take some of the guess work out of it.
Of course, I will be doing it with leopard print, as it will match my leopard print pill box that I made for my last travel adventure.
In addition to all that sewing, I will most likely spend lots of time this weekend cleaning, and running around my apartment in a tizzy trying to get my life in order.
Oh, yesterday I got my hair cut, which was an adventure. I got swing/swoopy bangs cut in, so we will see how that works out. I accidentally forgot to tell the girl to leave my layers long, so now I have short layers....ugh. I always forget something. it's not a big deal. Hair grows.
I've yet to set it so I have no idea how it will work out. Today I wore it in a modern style just to see how it looks when I am feeling lazy. I'm not totally in love with it, but I think I can deal with it for now.
The upside to yesterday was that I got a really awesome planner from my friend Kat. She saw it in B&N and decided that I had to have it. I am in love with it. It has all these great vintage pictures with catty little sayings like "There's no household chore that a little Merlot doesn't make easier" and 'A stitch in time deserves wine." Kat is such a doll and I am super lucky to have the awesome friends that I have.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Back in Humidity City
Today I had intended to post my method and recipe for delicious crock pot chicken, along with an accompanying video.....but sadly last night my computer decided to just give up.
I awoke this morning to check my email and the weather before slapping on clothes to head into the office, only to find my computer falling into a swirling vortex of utter failure.
So there I am clad in my bathrobe and sipping my morning coffee staring at the black computer screen that has some really foreign looking words displayed on it. I groan loudly and try to decipher the information on the screen, hoping that will give me something to work with. As I scan the screen I notice one phrase I do understand: "The operating system cannot be found."
Feeling a bit defeated, I turn off the computer and trudge my way into the bedroom to dress. It's about that time to get my morning phone call from "the fellow I fancy", so I prepare to answer the phone and give him the bad news.
Of course, he shrugs it off and tells me that we'll work on it when I get home, and that it's not a big deal, we'll get it fixed in no time.
After hearing that, I smile and head into work. According to him, I should be up and running within a few days.
I really hope all goes well.
I awoke this morning to check my email and the weather before slapping on clothes to head into the office, only to find my computer falling into a swirling vortex of utter failure.
So there I am clad in my bathrobe and sipping my morning coffee staring at the black computer screen that has some really foreign looking words displayed on it. I groan loudly and try to decipher the information on the screen, hoping that will give me something to work with. As I scan the screen I notice one phrase I do understand: "The operating system cannot be found."
Feeling a bit defeated, I turn off the computer and trudge my way into the bedroom to dress. It's about that time to get my morning phone call from "the fellow I fancy", so I prepare to answer the phone and give him the bad news.
Of course, he shrugs it off and tells me that we'll work on it when I get home, and that it's not a big deal, we'll get it fixed in no time.
After hearing that, I smile and head into work. According to him, I should be up and running within a few days.
I really hope all goes well.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Frugal Living: Freeganism
Recently, I've been hearing about all these new ways people are using to save money, yet enjoy a high quality of life. One of the more extreme things I have heard of is: Freeganism, also known as dumpster diving.
These, "Freegans" go around to high-end grocery stores (Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, etc) and dumpster dive for food.
That's right people, they get all of their food from the garbage.
Advocates of the practice say they use "common sense" about the food they retrieve from the trash, making sure that packaging is still intact, or that the food is free from mold or decay.
Personally, I don't think I would have much problem with eating the food if I had properly inspected it (Have you ever shopped the "Manager's Special" foods at the market that have been reduced to pennies on the dollar for swift sale? I see it as the same amount of risk.) however, I would be mortified if someone caught me. And I'm not entirely sure that it is legal.
Here is a really interesting news piece on the Freeganism movement: Dumpster Diving
I don't think I could commit to going to this extreme to save money, but the issue does get me thinking about all the food that people waste. While I don't think I could become a "Freegan", I do think they are making a small difference in reducing waste, and I think that's pretty great. We are a wasteful nation, indeed. I wish more people would attempt to reduce their waste, and adhere to "Make Do and Mend."
Your thoughts?
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Update of Sorts
So, I've negelected this blog....terrible I know. Currently, I am working on some serious blogging changes, so we'll see how that turns out. Who knows.
In the mean time, here are some pictures of some finished projects that I've been working on.
My friend Vicki, in her lovely Cherry Chaos dress, made by me.
Me in my Strawberry Fields Blouse, also made by me.
Me in the Polka Dot Nightmare (I call it this because the pattern was a total nightmare to work with Butterick 5209)....
I have a few more currently sitting on my sewing table. At some point I'll get them finished and posted up. Wish me luck.
<3, Amanda Awesome
In the mean time, here are some pictures of some finished projects that I've been working on.
My friend Vicki, in her lovely Cherry Chaos dress, made by me.
Me in my Strawberry Fields Blouse, also made by me.
Me in the Polka Dot Nightmare (I call it this because the pattern was a total nightmare to work with Butterick 5209)....
I have a few more currently sitting on my sewing table. At some point I'll get them finished and posted up. Wish me luck.
<3, Amanda Awesome
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Cheery Cherries!
So, I bet you are wondering....gosh, there hasn't been any mention of any recent sewing projects after getting the machine fixed. Has she just given up?
NEGATIVE GHOSTRIDER!
I am currently working on a project that I am just in love with.
A few weeks ago, my girlfriend Vicki and her hubby came down to visit me. We had a lovely visit and we traveled to the fabric store for some project stuff. Vicki picked out some really great fabric for a dress and a blouse.
Here is what she conned me into making for her:
This is the pattern. It's a McCall's, but I don't recall the number right now.
Specifically, this the design/cut of the dress I am making for her:
This cut really reminds me of the tea dresses that Vivien of Holloway offers. I'm pretty happy about that. I forsee a repeat on this pattern for myself. Probably in a different print though.
Here is the fabric. I am in love with this fabric. I have half a mind to get some for myself and make a skirt or something out of it.
Vicki selected large white shank buttons to match the polka dots, which I think was in excellent choice, though I hate sewing on shank buttons.
So far, things are going well with the project. The pattern is pretty easy to follow, and I am pleased so far with the look of things.
I really hope it fits well and looks good on Vicki. This is the ultimate test of skill for me. I mean, a lot is riding on this....I want Vicki to be pleased with it, and I want her to feel like she got her money's worth for the cost of the fabric...which if I recall correctly wasn't cheap. I know we'll both be disappointed if it turns out wonky.
Anyway, I'm pretty happy to be making this dress because Vicki gave me the pattern to keep ! And, there was a little bit of fabric that was left over, that I am keeping for myself (Sorry Vicki!) because I want a small bag to match my new purse I just bought. Woo Hoo!
I should be done with the dress by the end of the week, and I will post pictures when I present it to Vicki. I want her to see the finished product first.
Update on the dream dress....not I haven't forgotten about it...This project for Vicki has sidelined me though.
I picked up the pattern and I expect to start on the construction in May. I'm still holding out that I'll loose a little weight by then.
NEGATIVE GHOSTRIDER!
I am currently working on a project that I am just in love with.
A few weeks ago, my girlfriend Vicki and her hubby came down to visit me. We had a lovely visit and we traveled to the fabric store for some project stuff. Vicki picked out some really great fabric for a dress and a blouse.
Here is what she conned me into making for her:
This is the pattern. It's a McCall's, but I don't recall the number right now.
Specifically, this the design/cut of the dress I am making for her:
This cut really reminds me of the tea dresses that Vivien of Holloway offers. I'm pretty happy about that. I forsee a repeat on this pattern for myself. Probably in a different print though.
Here is the fabric. I am in love with this fabric. I have half a mind to get some for myself and make a skirt or something out of it.
Vicki selected large white shank buttons to match the polka dots, which I think was in excellent choice, though I hate sewing on shank buttons.
So far, things are going well with the project. The pattern is pretty easy to follow, and I am pleased so far with the look of things.
I really hope it fits well and looks good on Vicki. This is the ultimate test of skill for me. I mean, a lot is riding on this....I want Vicki to be pleased with it, and I want her to feel like she got her money's worth for the cost of the fabric...which if I recall correctly wasn't cheap. I know we'll both be disappointed if it turns out wonky.
Anyway, I'm pretty happy to be making this dress because Vicki gave me the pattern to keep ! And, there was a little bit of fabric that was left over, that I am keeping for myself (Sorry Vicki!) because I want a small bag to match my new purse I just bought. Woo Hoo!
I should be done with the dress by the end of the week, and I will post pictures when I present it to Vicki. I want her to see the finished product first.
Update on the dream dress....not I haven't forgotten about it...This project for Vicki has sidelined me though.
I picked up the pattern and I expect to start on the construction in May. I'm still holding out that I'll loose a little weight by then.
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