Weekly Roundup #51: K-beauty and SpongeBob

This week’s roundup is a bit shorter than usual because work has been insane, since we’re about to close an issue. But, don’t worry, I still had time to read some HP, try some new products and listen to some true crime. Self-care is important, people! Prioritize!

Reading

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, J.K. Rowling. I know this is like the third time I’ve said this, but, god, I hate the new covers showing up on Amazon now.

The Woman in the Window, A.J. Finn. SO. GOOD. I had an inkling about the ending, but there was a mid-book twist that I actually didn’t see coming. So unlike me.

Margaret Atwood Is Writing a Handmaid’s Tale Sequel, Vanity Fair.

Break the Internet: Amanda, Please, Paper. I used to LOVE her. I remember following along with her tweets in horror. I’m so happy she’s gotten help and I’m in awe of her bravery. After everything that was said about her, I can’t imagine how difficult it would be to voluntarily put herself back in the public eye. If the writer is to be believed, it sounds like she’s a truly beautiful soul and I wish her the best. As she said, she’s been through the worst and survived. She can only go up from here.

Alcohol is killing more people, and younger. The biggest increases are among women, USA Today. This was a scary story to read. My friends and I like to go out for a Sunday Funday or heavily drink on occasional nights out and it doesn’t seem that dangerous to me, especially as long as I’m aware. But, that’s the thing, you can easily trick yourself into denial. From 2007 to 2017, deaths among men rose 29 percent, but deaths among women rose 85 percent. Everyone needs to be aware. It’s not enough to do a “cleanse” for a few days. It’s about being aware when, how much and, most importantly, why you’re drinking. I actually think Dry January is a great idea. Sure, it’s supposed to be a month-long break from the toxicity of the drinking, and it’s kind of talked about in a joking manner, but I think it’s important to know if you can actually go a month without drinking. Plus, it may make you realize it’s nice to not be hammered with everyone else Saturday night. I did when I did Dry January (plus a couple weeks) last year. Just something to consider.

SpongeBob SquarePants creator Stephen Hillenburg gave the internet language, The Verge. I will always be grateful to Hellenburg for creating a show my family will forever be able to laugh about and use as a connection. RIP.

This Is Why These 6 Glossier Products Are Really K-Beauty Dupes, Beautytap. Fascinating. Also, I’ve added most of these to my list now.

Here’s Why the Early 2000s ‘Frosting’ Beauty Trend Is Making a Comeback, PureWow. “It’s important to note, frosty eye shadow looks a tad amateurish (it’s kind of the idea) regardless of how you apply, so no major makeup expertise is necessary.” Excuse me…going to grab the nearest silver shadow.

Hari Nef, Wonderland. She was well-spoken throughout the interview, but this was my favorite part: “Social media itself isn’t positive or negative. It’s the way we use it and what we bring to our screens that defines whether it’s positive or negative.” Also, “I’m much less concerned with this film as a political commentary than I am with this film as a midnight movie, for you and your girlfriends to go out and see, and share a giant bucket of popcorn and slushies that you spike with vodka at the back of a theatre.” You got it, girl. (Ok, it’ll be at my place, not the theatre, but you get the idea.)

Lena Dunham comes to terms with herself. The Cut. My thoughts while reading this: “Wow. She is a lot.” Hey, at least she’s aware.

Apparently, Trump Is Really Popular Among Sexually Insecure Men, Nylon. 😂😂 I mean…are we surprised?

Listening

Dr. Death, Wondery. I’ve been meaning to listen to this for a while now, but, once my mom started recommending it, I knew I had to get on it. It’s so horrific and so good. Even my boyfriend has listened and, let’s just say, he’s not exactly a true crime podcast junkie. I’m hoping I can now get him into my other favorites!

Watching

Thank U, Next, Ariana Grande. I honestly hadn’t even heard this song the whole way through, but my coworker was going on and on about this video, and now I know why. Thank you, next, please.

Loving

Cushion Pang Tint, Peripera. I’ve been eyeing this brand in my CVS for like six months so I finally just caved and bought this lip tint. I loooooove it. I got it in “Trendista Pink,” (I know I know, don’t judge by the name though), which is a bright pink, not at all my typical shade. I love the little cushiony ball applicator, though you do have to press the button a LOT before you start to see any color when you first open it. It goes on pretty bright with one swipe so a little will go a long way. I definitely will be looking into the other colors. “Swaggy Red,” anyone?