Yes, I play WoW, and Love It!

00.0000.00 / darphynia / Leave a comment

If you had asked me 10 years ago, I would have said that I would never play World of Warcraft. I didn’t see the point, and thought that it was a waste of time. Plus, I had played (only once) and thought it was idiotic that I had to wait to be hit before I could hit back. Well, times have changed, and I used a trial that my friend had. My first character is part of the Alliance. I created a Death Knight (blood) and named her Darphynia. She is a dwarf with glowing eyes and loves to attack/kill everything in sight. She also loves to mine, is an engineer, and loves her pets and mounts. Don’t let her size fool you…she’ll zap ya faster than you can slap a tick!

Within the first week of playing, I found myself not wanting to go anywhere after I had finished my daily routines because I felt that I needed to quest…it became somewhat of an obsession. Fortunately, I can say that that phase did not last long, and now it is over. I prefer to quest, but dungeons help my characters level faster. The only problem is that you are reliant on others to complete the dungeons, and we all know how rare it is to find a good group. My current mission is to obtain the Ashes of Al’ar mount. I have two characters nearly at 100, and a few more that are on their way.

My friend asked me how I named my characters. Some people pick a name at random, and others will use their imagination to create their own. Aside from Darphynia and Anzuki (my Monk Panda who is slightly named after my cat), all of my characters have been named for a reason. They have an origin, whether it is Celtic, Greek, etc., and I try to give them a name that best suits their look and what they do. For example, my Horde character is Histolytica. She is an Undead Rogue named after a parasite that feeds on living cells. Because she is Undead, she can eat most of what she kills to regain her health.

If you don’t have it already, I highly recommend the WoW Armory app. It allows you to view your characters, take a screenshot, and includes guild chat, currency count, and access the auction house. I will have posts later on focusing on my other characters. Who knows; maybe there will be a game-play video or two, in the future, as well.

A Note on the Mackeeper

00.00 / darphynia / Leave a comment

While at CES, we chanced upon the MacKeeper booth. MacKeeper (est. 2010) is a program designed to protect and clean your Mac. All you need to do is download the application, choose a subscription plan, and start running an analysis. I was a bit skeptical at first because I had seen the pop-ups before, and thought it might be a scam to gain access to information, files, etc. Please do NOT download it from any pop-up; you’re just asking for trouble– get it legitimately, if you decide to. I digress.

After CES, they were kind enough to send me a trial key, and I am so glad I used it. The version I tried was 3.3.1. After the first scan, my Mac was running far better than it had been. There is a meter that goes from green to red. There was a breakdown of everything that was scanned and found. The problem here is that most people won’t read through it, and if they do, might not understand it. On the scan screen, there is also an option to speak with a live person 24/7. There are 16 apps that come with the subscriptions, such as Duplicates Finder, Anti-Theft, and Shredder. This program delivers far more than what meets the eye; it is a comprehensive tools for Mac users that is fool-proof. Its design makes it a breeze to set up and use, eliminating any chances for complications.

Many people have named it a scam (though I found it to the contrary), and yet many professionals have praised it. Thoughts?

Here are a few links to opinions on either side of the fence:

Cult of Mac
TheSafeMac.com
PRWeb.com
SlowInternet.com
technologytell.com

Fashion Friday: Be Kind to Your Feet with Sanuk’s Yoga Chakra Sandals

00.0000.00 / darphynia / Leave a comment

Sanuk boasts that they make the most comfortable footwear. In fact, their motto is, “Never uncomfortable.” From what I have bought and experienced, I have to agree. The Yoga Charkra Sanuks are a pair of my favorite sandals! They are, hands down, the most comfortable sandals I own. Each pair is partially made from yoga mats (how cool is that?)! When I put them on, my foot just sinks in, similar to when you lay on a foam mattress. My feet always feel a sense of relief; like they are thanking me for cushioning them so well.

There are so many different styles, patterns, and colors of Sanuks to choose from, and they are incredibly lightweight. No matter where I am traveling, I always take a pair of their sandals. Whether I am spending a whole day trekking around the Disney theme parks, traveling about this beautiful world, or just out for a stroll, these are my go-to sandals. I have quite a few pairs of sandals and other footwear from them, and in the years I have had them they have not fallen apart. Each pair are incredibly durable and well-crafted. If you have not yet experienced Sanuk, I definitely recommend you do. They have styles for everyone (yes, even the kids!), so check them out.

The Yoga Charkra line comes in 6 different colors:

Image courtesy of sanuk.com

Tech Tuesday: Foreo Luna Mini

00.0000.00 / darphynia / Leave a comment

Foreo Luna Mini. Image courtesy of foreo.com

No, you’re not seeing double. I did a short review that wasn’t really a review, of the Luna mini, awhile back. I had not yet purchased the Luna Mini, but did shortly after. During CES 2013, I happened upon the Foreo booth. My first thought was that it was some kind of pleasure object. It was around other booths that fit that genre, the items are made from silicone, and they vibrate. As I was talking to one of their representatives, I was informed that it was a new way to clean your face. I am an avid Clarisonic user, and have said so from the beginning, but I thought I would give this a try. I like that it is made of silicone, and that it has a non-porous surface.

Sorry the photo quality isn’t the greatest. Under the device is the USB cable & Authenticity card.

The package comes with the Luna Mini, USB cable, User Guide, and Authenticity Card. It is important to register the product when you get it, just in case something goes wrong. There is no charger or stand; the USB cable simply charges the product from your computer or other wall charger that allows USB cables.

Front: Cleaning brush surface & “on” button.


Back: Deep cleansing surface & waterproof port.

The device took awhile for me to get used to. Not that it doesn’t now, but especially in the beginning, it felt like all I was doing was vibrating my face. The Luna mini has two vibration power modes, and will always be on the strongest setting when it is turned on. I have used those silicone scrubbing pads, and I thought that they cleaned better because there is more control; I could apply as much pressure as I felt necessary, and it could reach all areas of my face. But, the more I use the Luna Mini, the more I like it. In my opinion, the Clarisonic gives a deeper clean, but if your skin is sensitive this may be the way to go. Because of the shape of the Luna mini, it is also difficult to get to certain areas, like the side of the nose, even turning it. I also don’t notice any difference between the front part and the back, with the exception of texture. I used it one time at night to see how my skin would look and feel after a long day. It was okay; my skin felt clean, but it was not the deep clean that I needed after my skin had been attacked by the sun, pollution, etc. I then took to using it in the morning because I don’t (necessarily) need something that abrasive after I wake, and it is a good way to start my morning routine. My skin looks and feels nice, and is prepped for whatever life throws at it.

Three big pros are its portability, material, and lack of a charger. I like that I can work on my laptop and charge the device at the same time. The one thing I really dislike is the absence of auto-shutoff after the suggested usage time. Clarisonic, Conair facial brush, and Phillips Pure Radiance facial brush have an auto-shutoff feature. The clear base lights up after one minute, which means it is time to turn it off. Press and hold the button to do so. If you don’t it will shut off after 3 minutes so you don’t overdo it. Oh, and there is no case…for the money, the least they could have done was thrown in a bag or something to put it in for travel/storage purposes. Overall, I give it a 7/10; it is worth trying. You never know if something will work for you unless you do, right?

The Luna comes in four versions: Luna, Luna mini, Luna for Men, and Luna Luxe. Each device model is tailored to fit different needs, with varying speeds. It is also waterproof and can be used with any cleanser. They also have devices available for professionals as well. Foreo recently launched the ISSA, which is a silicone toothbrush. I have yet to get one, but am quite curious to see if it is really worth the hype. Thoughts?

Luna. Image
courtesy of foreo.com

Luna mini. Image courtesy of foreo.com

Luna Luxe. Image courtesy of foreo.com

Men’s Luna. Image courtesy of foreo.com

I purchased my Luna mini at skintrends.com, which is an authorized online seller. I do not recommend purchasing this from Amazon, since the items sold have mostly been knock-offs. Foreo products are also available on their website, and at Sephora, both in-store and online.

Stay beautiful!

Makeup Monday: Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Cleanser

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Ceramic Slip. Image courtesy of sundayriley.com

Normally I don’t purchase items after just one to two uses. I had purchased some items on Sephora’s website, and one of the free samples to choose from was Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Cleanser. I was happily surprised that after the first use my skin felt so clean and smooth. Since the results were so wonderful, I ended up purchasing two bottles at once! Within a week, my skin felt like, well, ceramic. My pores were less visible, and while they cannot in actuality be changed permanently (thank you, genetics *note sarcasm*), my skin as a whole looked better. You have to shake the bottle first, then just one pump on my Clarisonic is all it takes. If you do not have a Clarisonic, no worries. Whatever you use will work.

The cleanser does foam but not excessively. It contains green clay, Vitamin C, black pepper, and other stimulating ingredients. The scent is very unique. A bit like light vinegar with a hint of black pepper, followed by floral notes. It doesn’t sound very pleasing, but I promise it’s not that bad, and since the product works, it is well worth it. The scent doesn’t linger either, which is great. Ceramic Slip is gentle enough for use in the day and night. For a quick deep-cleansing mask, you can combine 2 pumps of Ceramic Slip with 1 pump of Good Genes. Leave it on for 5 minutes, rinse off with warm water, and pat dry.

It is a bit pricey ($45.00/4.2 oz), but worth every penny. Since many people have a problem with it being drying, be sure to follow up with your favorite moisturizer. Sephora also has a wonderful return policy, so just save your receipt if you need to return it. If you end up trying this out, please let me know what your experience was!

Stay beautiful!

Subscription Box Sunday

00.0000.00 / darphynia / Leave a comment

I have been thinking about doing a subscription box piece over the weekend, so here we are.

Sorry the photo is a bit wonky! These were the items in my Birichbox this month. Oops! I forgot to include the hair mask packet.

This is my fourth Birchbox, and so far I have been really pleased. There is always a variety. In this box, there was a lip crayon by mirenesse, small sample of eye cream by Supergoop!, small sample of No. 4 clarifying shampoo, small sample of No. 4 hair mask (not pictured), Cargo blush, and travel-sized Oscar Blandi mousse. Unfortunately, the shampoo’s cap had come unscrewed, and leaked everywhere. The shampoo got all over the other products, and was partially absorbed into the box & wrapping tissue. Each box is $10.00, though it is cheaper if you subscribe for multiple boxes at a time. Shipping is included, which a nice. At first, I was unsure if the price would be worth it; so far, it has. I also tried out the men’s box. it is double the price, but given the price of the goods inside, it’s no wonder. I would recommend both to try. With all of the options, who knows what will end up being your next favorite product!

This is the shampoo I will not get to try, since it leaked out. This was taken after I closed the lid.

I am looking forward to reviewing these products, and seeing what the latest Birchbox brings. On a side note, I have also had excellent experiences with their online shop. There are some great deals, discounts (sometimes), and freebies. You can also gift the men’s and women’s boxes!

Here are some photos of the Birchboxes I have received in the past:

Sorry this is tilted! It was one of the men’s boxes.

My First Best Friend and My Bestest-Best Friend

00.00 / darphynia / Leave a comment

Normally, Saturdays are reserved for small businesses, but today I’m doing something a little bit different.

People come and go throughout your time on this planet. Some people believe that individuals enter their lives for a reason, even if it is short-lived. Have you ever had that one friend who you just instantly connected with, and no matter how many years separated you (communication-wise), you could just pick up where you left off? That kind of friendship is very rare. The me now is much different than the me decades ago. I was very reclusive, and did not socialize easily. That was partially due to being raised around a lot of adults, and partially due to the separation anxiety I had (so glad I don’t have that problem anymore!).

Sally was my first best friend, and when she moved away in the 2nd grade, it was difficult. I can remember sleepovers at her house, and these really cool color-changing, purple Kool-Aid cups. We used to go to Big Bear, and our families both had places, we would sometimes randomly be there on the same weekend. We also used to play dress-up and dance around. She has recently moved, but last year we were able to meet up briefly. It’s amazing how time flies! It was probably 15 years or so since we had last seen each other, and it was like time stood still. We have grown (obviously), and she has a beautiful daughter and super entertaining husband, and conversation just flowed.

Early on in grade school, I met Stephanie. Steph and I became fast friends, and even though we rarely see each other now (it has been at least 10 years), it’s the same; time just stands still. She ended up moving during elementary school as well, and since then, I have never had another friend like her. This is not, by any stretch, anything against my best friends (OP, Jess, Tink, my Twister, etc.); it was just different. I can remember, prior to her moving, spending time in her room. She had this really cool little playroom that was walled off, like a secret closet. Sometimes we would go swimming or spend the weekend at Grandpa’s boat, shelling mussels from the dock. And there was that one weekend my mom took us to the Embassy Suites for a “girl’s night out”–they had a pretty cool pool from what I remember. Life was so much simpler when we were kids.

Part of me wishes I hadn’t let so much time go by, and I don’t want to blame it on life getting in the way, but it does. The older I get, the faster time seems to go. I can remember being a freshman in high school, thinking I would never graduate. Now, I am in the dissertation phase of my PhD, and another year has come and gone. I have a beautiful cat daughter, a wonderful life partner, and things are slowly going on the up-and-up. Don’t take those kind of friendships for granted. You never know what kind of curve balls life will throw you, and sometimes your friends are all you’ve got. Admittedly, I am awful at keeping in touch with people, but am working on bettering that part of me. I love and miss them both, and can’t wait to see them again. Maybe it’s time for a road (and plane) trip.

Living with Grave’s Disease

00.00 / darphynia / Leave a comment

Here is a little bit more about me. I really hedged on whether or not to post personal things. I feel a bit different when it comes to medical conditions, though, since some people want information from those who go through it. It can be a comfort to know you are not alone. It is important to keep in mind that not all experiences are the same. What I’ve gone through may not be the same what as you or your loved one has.

I was diagnosed with Grave’s Disease in 2010. I was tired all the time, my eyes were protruding, and losing weight rapidly, but that part I never noticed, and so I went to the hospital. Okay, I honestly went to the hospital because I was being yelled at; this person thought I was being dramatic, but I wasn’t. She also thought I was exaggerating the pain from the herniated disc until she went with me to the neurosurgeon who was surprised I could even sit…anyway, that’s in the past, and I’m sidetracking. I get to my GP’s office and see the PA. She checked my heart and noticed it was overly fast. She asked for a second opinion from my GP who knew what was wrong instantly. She asked if I had felt my heart racing at night, and I hadn’t. It was going so fast that it could have stopped at any minute. She said to get to an endocrinologist right away, so I did. Right away, he knew what it was, and I went in for some tests. He put me on two medications for Grave’s, but within a couple of months, my hands began to itch uncontrollably. It actually started while I was playing a game of cards at my grandma’s. Then it happened to the tops of my feet. It was the oddest thing, and I wanted to chop my hands off. Since I was allergic to the anti-thyroid medications, he sent for a radioactive iodine treatment. I took it; it was pill encased is a giant pill-shaped metal container. I wasn’t allowed to be around anyone, especially kids and pregnant women, for a week. My hair started to fall out in clumps, which I knew what happened–the thing is, you may be prepared for it to happen, but when it finally does, you don’t know quite how to cope. At any rate, I was put on Synthroid following the iodine treatment. Hopefully, someday, I will no longer have to keep needing adjustments.

My t-levels keep fluctuating, I am constantly bloated (which worsens during certain times of the month), my hair is still falling out (though not as much as before), and I still get hand tremors occasionally. There have been times when I’ve been out and a friend has told me to stop the tremors because they “freaked them out”. Do they think I enjoy not being able to hold a glass or eat because my hands are so shaky? I also know when my meds are off because I become tired quickly. Those things come with the territory. In a nutshell: I was hyperthyroid, they made me hypo, and as with people with thyroid problems, I am on medication for the rest of my life. I wondered if it was genetic, since my mom has thyroid issues, but they are not sure. She has been incredibly lucky because she never experienced any of the side effects I have, like the nausea after taking the medication or the problem with not eating right away (I get really sick if I don’t eat soon after taking the meds).

If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

Wellness Wednesday: Chicken Noodle Soup, Korean Style

00.00 / darphynia / Leave a comment

I love to cook and try out new recipes. I’m also, probably, one of the only people who truly loves grocery shopping. From making vegan/vegetarian dishes to plates that would satisfy any carnivore, there’s relatively nothing I won’t try. For awhile, I have been watching Maangchi’s Korean food videos (was on a huge Korean food kick for some time). She is absolutely adorable, and I love her little animations during her videos. Recently, I went out and bought a ttukbaegi for different foods, and have some radish water kimchi (dongchimi) in the fridge. So far, I’ve made several dishes (except those with fish in them, since I’m not huge on it…unless it’s swai, sea bass, halibut, or even cod, since they aren’t fishy), including her rice cake soup (tteokguk), which is my personal favorite. But today, we feature her chicken noodle soup (dak-kalguksu). It is so easy to make, and you can purchase the noodles at any Korean market. When I was at VONS, they even had them! They say “knife cut noodle” on the package.

Chicken noodle soup is said to be good for the soul. While I like the kind my grandma makes, with the egg noodles, carrots, and celery, sometimes I want a variation. This soup is so simple, and can be made for vegans and vegetarians. I’m sure some of you are wondering if that defeats the purpose–making a non-poultry version, but I don’t know that it does. You can replace the chicken with vegetables and make a veggie broth, or use the canned kind. I love that this recipe is so simple. Simple ingredients, and you’re not filling your body with a bunch of fillers. It’s wonderful, especially on a rainy and/or cold day. I’m a HUGE fan of garlic, so this recipe is right up my alley. I do recommend to cook the noodles, whether you make or buy them, separately because the flour and starch can thicken the broth and make it a bit gelatinous. You also have to stir them right away so they don’t become a ball of noodles (I use chopsticks for better separation). Since I’m not a fan of fish sauce, I use a bit of soup soy sauce.

The video below is owned by +Maangchi Kim:

Tech Tuesday: It’s not all Drones and Computers

00.0000.00 / darphynia / Leave a comment

When we hear “technology” our minds go to the latest computer components, camera, gadgets, etc., but it’s not limited to just that. Technology is present in everything, and today we are talking coffee machines. No; not Keurig. Those of you who know me know that I cannot stand Keurig. While they offer one of the largest selections of teas and coffees for their home brewers, it pales in comparison to Tassimo in terms of quality. We have had a Keurig since they came out, practically, and we have had to replace it numerous times. I saw the Tassimo ages ago at Bed, Bath, and Beyond, and knew that’s what we should get. We could forget about needing to replace a new machine constantly, and the beverages are much higher quality. Tassimo also has Timmy’s (Tim Horton’s) coffee, and even though I’m not a huge coffee fan, I LOVE Timmy’s!!! They really need to open one here. If I have a million dollars (it LITERALLY takes that much to open one), I would. Anyway…

The Tassimo comes in different sizes depending on your needs, and range from $99.99-169.99. The only drawback is that you can’t get just hot water. You also can’t adjust the fluid amount since everything is preset, but that just makes for a higher quality beverage. The T-Discs have a barcode that the brewer reads. I was lucky enough to find a new CBTL Caffitaly at Out of the Closet (for only $18.00!), so I get hot water that way. And yes, your microwave will do just fine 😉 Some of the drinks, like cappuccinos and some of the coffees and hot chocolates also come with milk discs that are shelf safe. There is no need to refrigerate them. I also love that the peppermint mocha comes as two separate discs. The coffee is in one and the peppermint mocha syrup is in the other. It makes for amazing peppermint hot chocolate! We have been using the Tassimo 1-3 times daily for about a year, and its just about time to descale. The machine is low maintenance, and the drinks come out perfectly every time.