Nothing to lose

May is NZ Music month. A good way to start NZ Music month is to plug the newish single from The Adults. The Adults is a new project from Jon Toogood (Shihad) and his mates. Expect an album soon.

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Will the Mana "party" get increased taxpayer funding?

It is quite clear that Hone Harawira has every intention of breaking his agreement with the Maori Party not to stand any candidates in Maori seats. Furthermore he wants to get as much money as possible to contest the general election.

That’s why he announced yesterday that he is having a by-election, after lying about it by denying it earlier that day, at a cost to the taxpayer of $500,000. It’s got nothing to do with getting a mandate. It’s to do with getting the $100,000+ leaders budget and other perks in parliament to set up his new party. Whether he succeeds is another matter. I think he is somewhat misguided.

If I was Act leader Don Brash, I'd contest the by-election for the publicity.

Having missed out on the deadline on election broadcasting funding, Harawira is trying to scrape together 500 people to quickly register his party so he can have “Mana” (instead of independent) on the ballot paper and have more money for the general election. An unregistered parliamentary party will not be able to get a leaders budget if it is not recognised as a parliamentary “party”. There is some information about that, here. All registered parties are recognised as parliamentary parties if they have an MP in the House - and the MP was elected on that party banner.

Election candidate Annette Sykes has been asking for 1000 people to support the party by today, so that it can quickly register – even though only 500 are needed. She is also calling on people to enrol on the Maori electoral roll. Once enrolled on the Maori roll, these voters can only vote for candidates on the Maori seats – the seats that Harawira earlier agreed he will not contest. She is talking up the numbers at the weekend’s hui that launched the Mana party, claiming that “more like 700 to 1000” people were there. The media reported 300.

So why are people like Sue Bradford and Matt McCarten behind the Mana Party, when they don’t particularly like Maori nationalism? I believe it is because they see this party as the only party that will threaten John Key’s leadership for the benefit of the Left as Labour is no threat, even with union backing. With the assistance of the unions, they consider this support can increase the party vote beyond five per cent after the election – and perhaps take a few MPs away from the National-supporting Maori Party.

Anyway back to the leader’s budget. If Harawira resigns on Monday he won’t be getting paid as an MP from the day he resigns until the day he is elected - which could be as late as July. And he`ll lose all his parliamentary responsibilities. I’m wondering if there will be much difference between the money Harawira loses between resignation and election in unpaid salary and perks compared to the money he gains as a parliamentary party leader between the by-election and the General election - and to what extent he and his party are aware of this.

Graeme Edgeler has an pretty good post on the numbers, detailing the perks, what Harawira loses when he resigns, as well as providing more information on how the various instruments outline the status of political parties.

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YSL Volupté Sheer Candy Glossy Balm Crystal Color

YSL's Volupté Sheer Candy Glossy Balm Crystal Color ($30) has landed - at Sephora. I had expected it to arrive at Neiman Marcus in late June or July. Suddenly, it appeared as a temporary Sephora exclusive. I jumped for joy because it's the replacement for my beloved YSL Gloss Volupté Sheer Sensual Gloss Sticks, which I started hoarding the moment I learned they were being discontinued.

This glossy, tinted balm will dress your lips in a sheer veil of brilliant transparent color boosted with vitamin-laden and antioxidant-rich fruit extracts. Its ultra-light texture leaves my lips feeling soft and hydrated - just the way I like them.

There are six shades. Since I was online and didn't have an opportunity to play with them, I ordered all six. I'm glad I did. There isn't one I don't like. Here are the shades, as described by Sephora and YSL.

• 01 Lush Coconut, sheer nude beige with golden shimmer
• 02 Dewy Papaya, sheer fresh peach
• 03 Juicy Grapefruit, sheer fresh baby pink with golden shimmer
• 04 Succulent Pomegranate, sheer bright pink with red undertones
• 05 Mouthwatering Berry, sheer reddish blackberry
• 06 Luscious Cherry, sheer cherry red with golden shimmer

Here is a photo of all six tubes. The tubes are silver in color, as opposed to the golden tubes in which the Rouge Volupté lip colors are housed. That will help me find one of them in my makeup bag in a hurry, particularly since Rouge Volupté Perle in Stellar Pink is with me at all times. Each balm has a representation of its shade in the decorative color band on the tube - helpful for people like me who carry more than one along.

When you read "sheer" with each description, there's a reason. If you are looking for pigmented lipsticks, this is not your lip color. If you want a natural, hydrating color that you can swipe and go, you will adore Volupté Sheer Candy.

To get swatches for you, I applied four or five swipes of each shade on my arm and took my photo outdoors in bright sunlight. I swatched in numerical order from top (near my wrist) to bottom. The photo at left shows that, with one exception, they increase in pigmentation as you move from 01 to 06. The lightest one is 03, Juicy Grapefruit (third from top), which is a barely there pink.

I have had 01, Lush Coconut, at my desk at work for a few days. I love it! The nude color is perfect for a quick touch-up or dose of moisture for my lips, and I've needed almost continuous moisture on my lips since I burned them with something early in the week. Don't let the appearance of the shades in the tube mislead you. All of these, even the one that appears to be orange, are extremely wearable.

I added two photos to show you the shades from slightly different angles. Can you tell I love Sheer Candy? At right, with the sun making the shades reflect in an arc, the shades show off their glossiness. Below, with the sun at a different angle, you can still see how glossy the Sheer Candy shades will be on your lips. You certainly don't need to apply lip gloss over these beauties!

The Sheer Candy's do have a fruity fragrance, much like the Gloss Volupté Sheer Sensual Gloss Sticks (possibly the same). The mango fragrance of its predecessor didn't bother me at all, and this one doesn't either. However, if you didn't like the gloss sticks, try before you buy.

I love them! Right now, you can only purchase YSL's Volupté Sheer Candy Glossy Balm Crystal Color at Sephora. They are scheduled to arrive at YSL counters at the department stores in July.

Top photo courtesy of Sephora

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White iPhone 4 Thicker Than the Black iPhone 4

The new white iPhone 4 is not only the color change is also thicker and is due to the tone that made him fat.

Apple has had to grapple with delays and more delays, but released two days ago the precious treasure, the color mobile whitey both expected millions and millions of people around the world and explained the reason for such a long wait.

The 4 white iPhone like a lot, but do not know the

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Weekend Roundup - April 30

The royal wedding of Diana's son William to Catherine Middleton offered excitement and glamour yesterday to a world that needed a dose of both. I watched as long as I could in the early morning hours before I felt compelled to leave for work. Then, in the evening, I saw on the news what I had missed in the evening. It was majestic, flawless, and thrilling on so many levels. Wow! Does anyone know how to do pageantry better than the Brits?

Kate's dress, designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen, was a brilliant choice. With a nod to Princess Grace, it was elegant - fit for a princess. Almost the first thing I noticed about her look was her gorgeous pair of diamond earrings, a gift from her parents. Her makeup? I've read that she did it! I've heard critics. Phooey! She delftly combined an understated glossy lip with a smoky eye. The only "critical" comment I can make is that with her hair pulled back, she looked tired (incredibly poised, but worn out - understandable). I don't know if more concealer could have hidden the slight circles without looking gobbed under her eyes to the most important person in her life.

Let's turn to our own, closer-to-home, world of beauty. This week, our team of beauty and fashion bloggers shared great suggestions for looking and feeling beautiful and special - even without a fairy tale wedding.

The Beauty Look Book showed us the hot tropics trend of bright nails for summer with Electric Tropics Catwalk Nail Duos in Aloha by Dior.

Everyone needs a perfect bronzer for summer. Café Makeup shared her latest Chanel purchases with the gorgeous bronzer, Soleil Tan de Chanel in Bronze Rosé.

Full brows are youthful, and Fab over Forty showed us how to make the brow a perfect shape by using the proper tools.

The new Dior Addict Lipstick is all the rage. The Non-Blonde gave us her thoughts on the formula and shade of #626, Androgyne.

Exfoliating is an important step in your skin-care regimen. Gouldylox Reviews showed us Jan Marini Instant Refining Exfoliator and is giving one away.

Another giveaway: Looking to lighten and brighten your skin? Diva Debbi showed us Youth Corridor's Skin Brightener. Go enter!

Daly Beauty showed us how to make a classic, simple updo hair style with the new Goody Simple Styles Bun Spiral - perfect for summer or anytime.

Product Girl interviewed Nonie Creme, Founding Creative Director of Butter London nail polishes. See what Creme keeps in her makeup bag.

Florals are so fresh. BeautyXposé shared with us some great floral accessories that are all under $20.

Guerlain's Terra Inca Collection has us clamoring for summer. Here at Best Things in Beauty, I focused on the Ombré Fusion Creme Eyeshadow from the collection. I also featured the bronzer and lip gloss. Scroll through and have a look-see.

How will you spend your weekend? Will you be catching up on any royal wedding news you missed? Shopping, perchance?

Photo courtesy of ABC

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Engadget: Galaxy SII Beats iPhone 4

The American counterparts of the famous Techblog Engadget have tested Samsung's new flagship Galaxy SII and lift it with her conclusion on the smartphone throne.
So far, the U.S. video was rather impressed by the Apple iPhone 4, this has changed with the test of the new device made by the South Korean manufacturer now. The testers Engadget reach the following conclusion:
"For a handset with such

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Dear Sylt or Rather Western Canada?

Where there it you this year on holiday? There are beautiful travel and tourist destinations here in Germany and abroad. Today we present to you times two destinations and the associated new apps, which probably could not be more different.

First came "Sylt - Island for connoisseurs." This is a Universal app, be they on the iPhone, iPod Touch and the leaves start iPad.

The elongated North

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Minor: White iPhone 4 Wait 5 Days, RIM Sales Problems, icloud Confirms Deal

A few side notes of the day we want to be not quite fall under the table.

iPhone 4 waiting times worse:
Only since yesterday, can potential buyers to the white smartphone from Apple seems to enjoy and even demand for the phone delivery times worse.

Called the iPhone maker from Cupertino yesterday, "Ships in 3-5 business days" increased the waiting period is now generally to 5 business days. And

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Mac Implementation of Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Imminent

Some time ago, the user could argue for choosing a PC for a Mac instead, that more recent games are available as on the Apple platform. But more and more will change the whole thing. The popular action adventure Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood "will now receive a Mac version.

According to PC games, it is on 12 May its extent. Then, its purpose is the Mac version of Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood of

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The White iPhone 4: Dicker, Different, Better?

No sooner is the white iPhone haunt officially arrived in the individual stores also reflect the initial findings by the World Wide Web. Starting with the sightings by iSpazio in terms of the proximity sensor and the antenna problem to the fact that the white model of the new iPhone 4th Generation 0.2 mm (9.5 mm) thick. Apple, however, is, at the appropriateOrder page, no differences between

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Why the iPhone Jailbreak Yet? Jay Freeman Takes a Stand

Cydia developer and iGod in Jailbreak and Co Jay Freeman Saurik alias refers, again a clear position on the issue jailbreak. He tried once again to begin to answer the question of questions, which is "Do I need a jailbreak or not?". In a short interview, which is then embedded still demonstrates the Cydia developer a few nice tweaks, which are almost inconceivable without the scene, we think of

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Ormonde Jayne Frangipani Eau de Parfum

I have wanted to try the Ormonde Jayne fragrances for months. Every time I looked at their British Web site, I sighed. The international shipping was so much money; I couldn't bring myself to order. Suddenly, a couple of weeks ago, I got a free shipping offer. My wish was granted! It always pays to register at sites that interest you.

I bought three Eau de Parfums. The first I've started wearing is Frangipani (about $117 in U.S. dollars). I wore it today, which I think was appropriate for a royal wedding day! I wonder if any of the guests were wearing it too.

I'll let Ormonde Jayne tell you about it.

With its large elegant cream-colored petals, frangipani is perhaps the queen of all tropical flowers. The heart of the structure is a fabulous, heady fusion of frangipani, jasmine, and tuberose absolutes, elevated with plum, water lilies, and green orchid oil. The scent has great foundations and architecture; the notes are soft, captivating, and unforgettable.

The top notes are linden blossom, magnolia flower, and lime peel. The heart or mid-notes are white frangipani, jasmine, rose and tuberose absolutes, water lilies, plum, and green orchid oil. The base notes are amber, musk, cedar, and French vanilla absolute.

I couldn't decide about Frangipani when I read these notes online; I was concerned about the amber and particularly the vanilla. As a rule, I'm not a big fan of fragrances that remind me of cupcakes. Gaia, The Non-Blonde, had told me she thought I would like the Ormonde Jayne florals. Trusting her instincts entirely, I was willing to buy without a whiff. She was right!

Fragrance experts have been in the know about Ormonde Jayne for a long time. Founded by Linda Pilkington, who was asked to create the perfect scented candle for one of the world's leading luxury houses, Ormonde Jayne prides itself on defying convention. The company uses specialty oils not widely used in the perfume industry. They want to be on the "cutting edge of creativity." I like the sound of that.

Ormonde Jayne has a boutique on Old Bond Street in London. The interior looks snazzy in photos. I love the fragrance packaging. The magnetic snap box that holds my new eau de parfums has contrasting colors of vibrant mandarin and ebony. It's timeless, classic yet modern, and elegant - simply stunning. I can't recycle the boxes!

Frangipani sprays on initially with a bit of an alcohol rush, but quickly dries to a fruity floral with a green lilt. I can smell the linden blossom, which makes it unique, and the lime peel. As it starts to dry down, and those heady florals take over, it becomes "even better." The base notes have a nice balance - not too woody, not too musky, just perfect. That vanilla? Almost imperceptible. Maybe it's my nose and spring allergy season, but I don't think so.

If you like sophisticated, clean florals, I think you will like Ormonde Jayne's Frangipani as much as I do. Remember to register at the Web site!

Photo courtesy of Ormonde Jayne

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The Friday Forum - April 29

Random thoughts on a big day...

It's wedding day! Is anyone out there, or are you all watching the festivities? I'm watching the royal wedding as I write, and I'll have one eye on it until I have to leave for work. I'll see if anyone is livecasting it when I get into my office. Fortunately, there will be specials on television tonight, so I'll have an opportunity to see everything I miss.

It's Kate's day, but, like many, I am thinking about Diana - how young, innocent, hopeful, and beautiful she was the day she got married, how poorly she was treated, and how sadly her life ended. Can't help it!

I want to say how much sympathy I feel for everyone in the South affected by the tornadoes - lives, family and friends, animals, homes, possessions, neighborhoods - life as they knew it. It's staggering to contemplate the numbers: at least 300 people dead from one romp by Mother Nature as the storm system moved across the South. My heart is with them.

Space Shuttle Endeavour will launch for the last time today, with Rep. Gabby Giffords in attendance. It's so heartening to know that she was well enough to travel and be there. There is nothing quite like standing close to a shuttle launch. It's awesome. I'll never forget the energy that coursed though my body as I watched the majestic shuttle launch I attended. Godspeed, Endeavour!

What's going on here? Late April and early May bring a riot of color to our area. The azaleas, even the common old ones like my neighbor's hot pink above, are a welcome spring sight. This is a perfect locale for azaleas. Believe it or not, many years ago, when I was trying to decide whether I would move to the West Coast to take an offered job at UCLA's medical school in the department of pharmacology, the dogwoods and azaleas were blooming. I decided that our area - my home - was too pretty to leave. That wasn't the only factor, but it made a difference. Had I made the decision in mid-winter, it might have been different.

Have you ever burned your lips with a beauty product? I did this week. I'm not dead-sure what, but I think I might have applied a glycolic acid serum too quickly and wiped it across my lips, hitting my lower lip the most heavily. I get moisturizer all over my lips often, so it's my best guess. My lips are so "ouchy," as Laurie at Product Girl called it on Twitter! They are red, painful, and feel like they are being stretched apart. Since I'm careful to avoid retinol, the product that will burn me, the serum is my best guess at what left me hurting. My advice to everyone is to read directions. If the label says to avoid the eye and mouth area, pay attention!

It's time for The Friday Forum. We use the forum to share information and chat. Did you find any deals you couldn't resist this week? Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Do you have a question others might be able to answer? Want to talk about skin care? What's new in your life? Just use the comments. Don't be shy. Just make sure to ask any question you might have over the weekend. By Monday, most readers have moved on.

Don't forget to enter this week's giveaway contest for a bareMinerals Faux & Foxy set! A Sephora exclusive, it's a nice bronzer/lip gloss duo, and it comes with a brush. The colors are nice for any skin tone.

And now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go watch more wedding arrivals.

Photo by BTiB

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Apple is Testing iOS 5.0 Including Integrated Navigation

Smart developers and the clean work of various media, can no observation undetected. Thus, according to latest findings once again interesting aspects regarding to come already in the test period at iOS 5.0 to light. Apple seems to hone in on its own, and Mac OS iOS navigation anchored to the long term give up Google Maps.

The screen shot of an App developer of Future Tab thrilled to time by the

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The Dream Wedding of William and Kate on the iPhone and Co [Live Stream]

Today, a little royal Glamour is in the air. Old customs and traditions are respected in the English royal family is still severe. So it is not surprising that a wedding is celebrated in accordance with royalty. As for the more or less gets on my nerves for weeks looking forward to other interested more so. Today is the day of all days. William and Kate get married. And you are there live with

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Apple Beats Microsoft

After Apple and Microsoft as well as a few days ago his last quarterly figures today announced, it is clear: Apple has once again IT Giants defeated.

The pure net profit Apple is with some 760 million U.S. dollars before Mircrosoft. In other words, Apple had a net profit of 5.99 billion U.S. dollars, against which Microsoft is "only" 5.23 billion.

The figures are indeed a bit dizzy. But it gets

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Global 3D Maps for Outdoor Enthusiasts Not Only on the iPhone

The term 3D is all the rage. 3D cinema, 3D TV, or 3D games. But it also 3D-maps for the iPhone and the iPod Touch is naturally for the iPad, I did not know until now. Is probably because I'm sitting here, everything from the iMac and try to you news from the Apple App scene and found, when I was out of sports. And here at home I do not need a guide, here I know my way. :-)

Who GeoGuide 3D on an

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New Display for the iPhone 6

The new iPhone 5 has not even been officially launched, as rumors have come to regard the replacement model, which is likely in 2012 to market. This is a new display technology from Sharp called p-Si LCD (low-temperature polysilicon LCDs). This could replace the current retinal display, built into the iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 probably. Supposedly Sharp thus be of future display supplier for the new

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Apple Patent Application Reveals Plans for a Fitness App

The sun is shining and it's getting warmer. In big steps we are heading for the swimming season. This idea can also quickly create a guilty conscience and you give a brief hand the decision to have something against the small winter reserves. Nice to have its own smart phone this can help.

Today released the "U.S. Patent and Trademark Office" a patent application from Apple. This shows a small

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iPad 2 Design: Foxconn Employees Accused of Spying

Against three employees of the Apple supplier Foxconn was formally charged on March 23 charges of betrayal of trade secrets. This report today, the Taiwanese industry service Digitimes, citing the Chinese news portal Shenzhen News.

Already on 26 December last year, the three suspects were arrested by the police because they should have the dimensions of the iPad 2 sold to cover unlicensed

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Hone Harawira’s expensive divisive politics

We all know that Hone Harawira is a loose cannon and a drain on the taxpayer. He draws an MPs salary and trips around the country attending hui and promoting himself and his new party. The speaker line up for the launch of the party this weekend is here and includes Veronica Tawhai, Annette Sykes, Sue Bradford, Nandor Tanczos, Matt McCarten, Margaret Mutu and John Minto. I've met most of them and it is an impressive list.

Since Harawira left the Maori Party the Maori Party travel expenses have dramatically reduced. In the past few months the Maori Party has spent $44,000 on travel, just $1000 more than Harawira alone. So Harawira was responsible for half the Maori Party travel bill bill and we are still paying that half while Harawira trips around as an independent MP trying to stitch up his divisive party.

And it will be divisive. It will pit Maori against Maori at the taxpayers expense. If he wins his seat as a leader of a parliamentary party he will get even more money. There was even talk of Harawira resigning from Parliament to force a by-election to get a mandate for his new party so he could be a Parliamentary leader in parliament before the General election – at a cost of $500,000.

Harawira must realise that the only way to get extra MPs for his Mana party is to challenge the Maori seats, just like Tariana Turia did. So you can expect that Harawira’s agreement not to challenge the Maori seats will be broken.

Then it will be an all-out Maori-against-Maori divisive political battle. Instead of Harawira discussing white mother***ers raping our land, he`ll be focusing on the Maori Party, tripping around the country attempting to create a wedge between his party and the Maori Party, and many ofthose speaking at the launch of the party this weekend will not be impressed. In addition the party will struggle to create an identity, as it jumps between nationalism, unionism and left wing politics. That has started already with Sue Bradford announcing she is unwilling to join a party that is more focussed on nationalism than the Left.

The Mana party will get nasty as it will need all the publicity it can get, in the absence of broadcasting funding. If it is successful it could split the Maori vote and be quite divisive. A similar scrap has happened before when Christians Graham Capill and Graeme Lee had their public scrap within the Christian Coalition in the 1990s, and more recently when the Gordon Copeland and Brian Tamaki kissed and fell out. The difference here is that Capill and Lee were never going to win seats, and Copeland was a list MP-turned-independent.

In addition, the leaders of the two Maori parties are current MPs thanks to MMP, and are likely to retain their seats after the election.

Harawira wants to be an “independent” voice - and I think he`ll get his wish as the lone MP from his party in parliament. Whether this voice will have any worthwhile influence within Parliament, even if he does take others in with him, is another matter.

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M·A·C Cremeblend Blush

M·A·C Cremeblend Blush ($19.50) may come in a color you love! There are six shades of Cremeblend Blush, which M·A·C says "manages to make a simple blush state-of-the-art."

The price was right, so I ordered three of them: So Sweet, So Easy; Something Special; and Posey. They appeared online to be shades I might like. I have no idea why I didn't order Tea Petal, which I think I would have liked. I wish I had ordered it.

When the blushes arrived, I was immediately struck by the lightly creamy and easy-to-blend texture. They blend well with a synthetic brush or my fingers. Incredibly nice! The medium-coverage formula imparts a natural finish that's smooth and dewy.

Color makes all the difference. If you select the right shade from the six, you will be extremely happy. I want Tea Petal!

I love two of the three shades I did order. My swatch photo, taken in outdoor sunlight, with the shades fairly unblended, shows my three shades in this order top to bottom:

• Posey, described as warm peach, but a lovely coral (to my eye) even I can wear,
• Something Special, described as light coral, but a gorgeous peach with a hint of nude or warm pink, and
• So Sweet, So Easy, described as a bright yellow-pink, but really cotton-candy pink.

So Sweet, So Easy is way too sugary - a pink that for me is too cool, too young, too light, too something. How could anyone could have selected the description of "yellow-pink"? I don't like it at all, so it's headed to a better home, probably one inhabited by a 12-year-old kid allowed to wear makeup.

I do like the shades that are often hard for me to wear, Posey and Something Special. While I think they switched the descriptions at birth, they are both pretty. Why didn't I order Tea Petal? The site calls it a mid-tone reddish brown, but the swatch photo at M·A·C's Web site is gorgeous. Should I place another order? Anyone have Tea Petal?

You can purchase the Cremeblend Blushes at M·A·C stores, online, and M·A·C counters at department stores. I bought mine online from M·A·C.

Photo at top courtesy of M·A·C

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Marian Rivera Along with Dingdong Dantes, Piolo Pascual and KC Concepcion on Real Leaf Green Tea Commercial

Real Leaf Green Tea - the closest competitor of C2 Green Tea recently got the hottest pair of Celebrity couple from the two networks namely Piolo Pascual and KC Concepcion from ABS-CBN and Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera from GMA Kapuso network as their latest celebrity endorser.

Check Marian Rivera, Dingdong Dantes, Piolo Pascual and KC Concepcion's photos for Real Leaf Green Tea behind the scenes photos inside ->

More Photos of this Pinay Celebrity Inside >>

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iPad 2 is Available in 13 Countries

During the course of this week, the iPad 2, according to press release from Apple, in other countries will be available.

As of April 28 , the second-generation Apple Tablet with Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi 3G 16 GB, 32 GB and 64 GB in Japan and, from the 29th April in Hong Kong, India, Israel, Korea, Macao, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates are to be trade.

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More Reports of Supply Problems in iMacs

Already a few days ago we reported that inventories at the iMacs ever deteriorate. This is one of several indications that a new line of iMacs indicate. Among other things is also the magazine macerkopf.de is speculated that the iMac is a Upgreade obtained. Meanwhile, there seems to be beginning to customers hardly noticeable delays to worsen the iMac. Apparently was some time before the

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Diorskin Nude Glow Healthy Glow Summer Powder in Aurora

At first glance, this summer look from Dior is all about orange. Learn a little, and you''ll find the model is wearing Diorskin Nude Glow Healthy Glow Summer Powder in Aurora ($46). Aurora (001) and its bronzer sister shade, Sunset (002), have received a lot of recent blogger press. There's a great reason for all the attention.

Here's a photo of the Aurora (#001) bronzer compact, taken in outdoor sunshine so the beautiful woven pattern in the compact sparkles. I also snapped a photo in the shade (shown below) so that you could see that the powder doesn't sparkle without that direct sunlight. The three woven shades (it's a new product so I'm not dead-sure what's below the surface) coordinate perfectly.

Aurora is a flattering bronzer. The multi-toned lightweight powder reproduces the natural summer glow of healthy and radiant sun-kissed skin. Aurora was created for blondes and fair-to-medium complexions, and Sunset for brunettes and medium-to-dark complexions. Aurora was the natural for me. With the rosy pink tones threaded through the compact, I was sure it would be perfect. This is one of the products I nagged the Neiman Marcus gals about - every day. I ended up buying two, the first one from Nordstrom and the second from Neimans. I was getting impatient.

I like it - a lot - even though the shade isn't absolutely perfect for me - darn close, but not perfect. Aurora is extremely pretty; make no mistake. It has set hearts aflame. I'm not criticizing it by saying it isn't absolutely perfect for me. With all the beautiful bronzers on the market, particularly the summer 2o11 introductions, it compares very favorably to most of them. I'm getting so jaded, I think - for me - that the new Guerlain Terra Inca Sublime Radiant Powder is better. Dior's bronzer is warmer. It's a good thing I don't have to choose! The Dior bronzer is significantly less expensive than Guerlain's. It's smaller too.

My swatch photo, taken in outdoor sunlight, shows the bronzer swiped across all the shades at the top with a sponge-tipped applicator and a very heavy application below, achieved by layering with a dense face brush. Remember, bloggers do heavy applications to get shade photos, but you would never apply a bronzer this heavily - hopefully. You don't want to cross the line between a glowing gal and a carnival attraction.

I don't see the rosiness I can see in the Aurora compact on my skin. I "get" the golden bronze, which is an extremely pretty shade and not at all muddy. On the face, when properly applied, it adds a beautiful glow and a nice contour on my fair skin. It is warm, though, and that's what separates it from the Guerlain bronzer on my face. The Terra Inca bronzer has that cool, rose-bronze tint, perfect for me. What some don't like about Guerlain's bronzer is the shimmer. It doesn't bother me, probably because I don't apply bronzer as liberally as others can.

Sabrina posted a lovely comparison of three new summer bronzers from Chanel, Guerlain, and Dior at The Beauty Look Book yesterday. You should read it!

Here is my bottom line. Diorskin Nude Glow Healthy Glow Summer Powder in Aurora is gorgeous. It's just not perfect, and this season, with so much competition, a bronzer must achieve perfection to be a single choice with such an embarrassment of riches available (Chanel's is incredibly gorgeous). Will I be wearing it? Absolutely yes! It surpasses many warm-toned bronzers in my collection. Picky, picky. Isn't it a pleasure to have so many choices?

This bronzer is available at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks, and other Dior counters, I'm sure.

Photo at top courtesy of Nordstrom

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Jobs and Schiller Give Reasons for Late White iPhone 4 and Innovations

It took 10 months, until the black counterpart, the iPhone 4 has received complementary finite. Conjecture to follow, had Apple white color problems, including the customer in the camera area to provide the same results as with the black model. Moreover, peeling off the paint or yellowed due to high UV radiation. Now Ina Fried got to "All Tings Digital" at last the opportunity in an interview

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Sights DVDs and Blueray are with the iPhone

Real film freaks know almost every new film and know which movie is good and something that is suitable for the bin.

Opportunity gazers have since been considerably more trouble to differentiate when buying or renting at a video-DVD or Blu-Ray, the original theatrical highlights of the grotto poor sediment.

It would be great if we could only fathom in advance faster and better, whether a band

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Fone Offers VoIP App for Facebook

Skype is so far the undisputed top dog in the field of cross-platform VOIP telephony and is probably coming in a variety of devices around the world every day use. But also other services it is written on the flags their users free to bring together in dialogue and hope for market share for VOIP. One such provider is fone, understands specifically to calls in Facebook friends. This symbiosis of

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Chaz Dean: WEN Bath and Body Products

As I new Chaz Dean groupie (he hooked me with the Pomegranate Cleansing Conditioner), I was delighted to be offered an opportunity to try his new bath and body products. The company sent me Lavender Nourishing Body Lotion ($32) and Lavender Body Cleansing Cream ($32). I don't know anyone who doesn't love lavender. It's one of the most soothing scents on earth. When I see a bed of blooming lavender, I want to roll in it like a cat rolling in catnip. Chaz Dean has the next best thing.

Chaz Dean's new bath and body products - all of them - are formulated with a nourishing blend of botanical ingredients. They don't have the harsh detergents in conventional soaps. Dean suggests you start a ritual. Your first step should be an "invigorating" bath or shower with the Body Cleansing Cream. I have to confess: Lavender is relaxing to me, which is great because it calms my mind when it's racing. That's OK, there are other scents for an invigorating experience. This very creamy, but non-lathering, cleanser deposits a moisturizer while stimulating collagen production to promote skin firmness and elasticity (I'm starting to see a need for this). I love the way it cleanses gently, and I use it as a "base" for shaving in the shower.

In your ritual's second step, you should apply the Nourishing Body Lotion - or the Bath, Body & Hair Oil - which applies easily, is rapidly absorbed, and provides long-lasting moisture to leave the skin soft, supple, and "glowing with health." I've adopted this ritual in the last week - morning and evening - and I'm delighted with it.

WEN's one-stop beauty products work seamlessly with each other to promote a balance of "beauty, mind, body, and spirit." With lavender, it works for me! Apparently, there are world-famous devotees of Chaz Dean products, including Gwyneth Paltrow (isn't she great in Glee?), Marcia Cross, Halle Berry, Charlize Theron, Diana Agron (more Glee), Daryl Hannah, and Drew Barrymore - to name just a few of my favorites. I think I'm in great company.

The bath and body products are available in lavender, fig, and sweet almond scents. There's something for everyone. I want to try fig next. It's too bad I placed a huge order from Chaz Dean's Web site about a week ago. I would have added fig to go along with the lavender I'm using every day. I ordered more Pomegranate Cleansing Conditioner, some bath salts in different scents, and a few other things to try. A groupie has to be up-to-date on everything!

When I wrote about the Cleansing Conditioner, many of you commented. You discovered it before I did. I also learned at my office that many women had discovered it before me. When a colleague asked me how I got my hair to shine, and I told her I had started using Pomegranate Cleansing Conditioner, she raved that her mother (probably my age) was hooked on it. Smart woman!

Head over the the Chaz Dean Web site. You'll be tempted.

Photo courtesy of Chaz Dean

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The battle for Ikaroa-Rawhiti

Earlier this month Labour MP Parekura Horomia was considering his parliamentary future. What this means is that he was considering whether to bother contesting his seat of Ikaroa- Rawhiti, a seat nobody else has held. He can afford to do so as he is guaranteed a seat in Parliament as he is a stupidly high sixth on the party list.

Horomia is a party man – he’s Labour’s Maori vice-president. One of his roles is to ensure that the best Labour candidates contest the Maori seats – it’s just that he is starting to recognise that he is not one of the best. This, despite not only getting the highest plurality of votes in the past two elections, he got the majority of votes.

So Horomia may stand down from contesting his seat in favour of promising candidate Meka Whaitiri, the CEO of her Iwi, Ngati Kanungunu. Whaitiri also played for the U21 New Zealand Netball team and was the chairperson of the board of Trustees at Te Kura Maori o Porirua while a public servant. Like Deborah Mahuta-Coyle, a new MP after the 2011 election, she has worked for Horomia in Parliament.

Whoever Labour selects may be up against Mereana Pitman. She is the president of Hone Harawira’s new party and unsuccessfully contested the presidency of the Maori Party. She’d be right up Harawira’s alley – one of her stated favourite quotations is f**k off.

The only other candidate in the race will be the Maori Party candidate, Na Rongowhakaata Raihania. Late last month iPredict said that he was the candidate most likely to win the seat.

Doubt it. Labour may well come up the middle and retain the seat and Horomia will be the second highest ranked Labour list MP.

More about →

(Update) End of an Odyssey - White iPhone 4 Meet in a Trade off April 28 with Telecom

(Update: according to the colleagues of Macerkopf was on the T-Mobile page with a banner announcement date April 28, spotted the short term).

First Images from Belgium confirm that the long-awaited smartphone White Apple iPhone 4 finally reached the trade.

The Odyssey to the "mysterious" device thus has finally found a satisfactory end. Potential buyers and interested parties can most likely

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White Apple iPhone 4 Officially Confirmed of the Launch

Apple has the official launch for the white iPhone 4 from tomorrow, Thursday, April 28, 2011 now via press release confirmed.

After 10 months of waiting, the white model is now operational but still in the trade. Interested customers can purchase the white smartphone either directly from Apple, both in the online store, and in the local stores, of course, also through authorized dealers. The

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M·A·C Prep + Prime Highlighter in Light Boost

Another Touche Éclat clone! That's how I think about every pen highlighter that's introduced. It's not fair, really, because some of the clones are much better than others. YSL scored big time with Touche Éclat. Every company wants to grow up to be YSL - at least with a pen highlighter.

M·A·C's new Prep + Prime Highlighter in Light Boost ($23), the lightest of three shades offered, is a pen-style highlighter that adds a soft sheer wash of illuminating color to the skin. With its precision pen-style applicator, it adds radiance exactly where you want it, and blends smoothly for cushion-soft wear. You can use it over makeup for highlights, touch-ups, or under makeup to brighten and prime.

I actually like it, so perhaps I shouldn't have started my feature with a comparison to the unparalleled Touche Éclat. The $23 price is attractive, and the highlighter is nice. It blends well and adds a yellow-gold highlight to my skin - no striking shimmer, just a light-reflecting glow. I think it would be a great dual purpose pen to carry in your handbag: concealer and highlighter in one.

Here's a swatch photo of Light Boost, with the unblended shade at the top and a blended shade below. It was taken in full sun. I hope you can see that Light Boost adds a yellow-gold tint to my skin.

There are two other shades: Bright Forecast (peachy) and Radiant Rose (pink). I think I selected the best shade for my skin, but I'd love to see the others. I purchased mine online, so I had no opportunity to play with the others.

You can find M·A·C's Prep + Prime Highlighter at M·A·C's Web site and M·A·C counters.

Photo at top courtesy of M·A·C

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Analysts: Nintendo Paragraph Breaks, Not Least Because of an Apple

The online portal welt.de reported rising sales problems of the Japanese game console maker Nintendo, citing, inter alia, to leading analysts. Among other devices are like the iPad, which also indirectly responsible for its iPhone and iPod touch that all the mobile mini-consoles like the Nintendo DS selling very badly.

After the huge success of the Nintendo Wii, which stands out against the

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Women's World Cup 2011 in a Free App for the iPhone

In the summer there in Germany, the FIFA Women's World Cup. For the players, probably the high point of her career.

For women's soccer World Cup, there is an app for the iPhone, the users free of charge anywhere up to date keeps the women's soccer in 2011 App.

Following the example of the top iPhone App iLiga South Africa last year, offers motain with the women's soccer in 2011 App relevant

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iPhoto and Written Update for Leopard are Available for Download

The latest iPhoto update, version 9.1.2 is now available via Software Update.
This update adds new maps topics to iPhoto '11. It also improves the stability of the entire program and resolve other minor issues in the following areas:Fixes a problem that prevents access to the zoom control in the enlarged view (one)
Fixes a problem that was not in the toolbar in full screen mode automatically

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Video: A Flash Mob in the U.S. Apple Store

A flash mob describes a brief, seemingly spontaneous crowd on public or semi-public places, in which the participants do not know personally and do extraordinary things. This is the explanation on Wikipedia.
Now it has caught an Apple Store.
Chris Brockhoff and Hayley Kiyoko, two of the stars from the Disney production Lemonade Mouth, organized the surprise appearance with about 15 of her friends

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Updated: Free App iCademy 1.3 Knows 350 Tricks about iPhone

The iPhone is an incredibly complex, "I can-it-all machine" in your pocket. Nevertheless, there are a few tricks and subtleties intended by the experienced user to the newly minted iPhone owners to be shared. Who the expertise of such professionals for the tap can not, unfortunately, is instead equal to the free app iCademy, which has just been released in version 1.3.

The app explains the basic

More about → Updated: Free App iCademy 1.3 Knows 350 Tricks about iPhone

iMac Model Available from May 02, 2011

A bird chirped the guys from 9to5mac that as of Monday May 02, the new iMac model in 2011 will be available.

For some time diving to new evidence that Apple's desktop models, especially the iMac, an upgrade could miss.

Recent already reported different sources that the stocks of the current model range had deteriorated, which is already seen as a sign for a product review.

The current model

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Guerlain Terra Inca Sublime Radiant Powder for Face & Body

Under some conditions, I might think it was amazingly confident for a company to use the term "sublime" in a name. Not this time! Guerlain's Terra Inca Sublime Radiant Powder for Face & Body ($70) is indeed sublime. This bronzer and its compact are stunning (Note: I'm even raving over the compact).

I finally found and purchased the Terra Inca collection bronzer at Nordstrom. I knew it wanted it. It was only after I got home and started playing with it that I realized that it is so much more than a pretty face. Instead of continuing to gush, let me provide a list of the features I love.

• The compact is large, so you could use this bronzer on your body if you choose. You get a lot of product for the price.
  
• The carved top of the engraved compact is gorgeous. If I had a vanity, it would sit there.
• The magnets that enable the top to "snap" onto the bottom are extremely cool.
• The bronzer is stamped and beautiful for gazing.
• When I used it, I realized how extremely happy I really was. The color is a great one for me. It's close to the color I would tan - but I don't do that sun thing.
• It's got some sparkle to it, but not enough that I worry about looking glittery in the sun.
• It's easy to apply a light dose.

As usual, I'm not happy with my swatch photo. It was taken in full sun. I decided to apply the two shades of the compact (large outer ring and somewhat smaller center) separately, using a sponge-tipped applicator to ensure you would be able to see the shades in the photo. Then I used a kabuki brush to mix the colors, rolling it around in a circular fashion on the powder. I applied it heavy (too heavily, but I wanted a photo) to show you a better representation of how the colors appear on my skin when combined. The pretty bronze-rose tint of the outer ring isn't clear in my photo, but the golden bronze is.

The top shade on my arm is the outer ring of the compact. The shade below is the golden shade in the center. When I mix them, the overall effect on my skin is golden. It love the gold. Some bronzers make me look like I rolled in a mud puddle - it's the nature of fair skin - even when they don't do that to others. Guerlain's Terra Inca bronzer flatters my skin.

Here is what Nordstrom's Web site has to say about this beauty.

A skin accessory between design and desire, this powder is composed of two subtle pearl shades: a highlighting golden beige and a pink bronze. Together, these shades will embellish your complexion while warming the skin with an iridescent glow. The case mimics the extra-large wooden bangles worn by fashionistas, making Terracotta Powder the "it accessory" of summer 2011!

Amy had great photos at Café Makeup. Her blond daughter Liz modeled it, so if you didn't see Amy's feature, make sure to pop over for a look. Makeup like this makes me happy to be an addict.

As I understand it, the Terra Inca Collection for summer is available at Nordstrom and Saks.

Photo at top courtesy of Nordstrom

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New iPhone 5/4S Pictures: Fake or Real

It once again teeming images, mockups and new rumors for next-generation iPhone. While this country still has the iPhone 5 zeroed in on the go, such as Redmondpie been speculation in the direction of the iPhone 6 on. Equipped with LTE technology, and Qualcomm MDM9615. So far in the future, we do not look for now. Finally, diving almost daily new Spypics on the iPhone 5. These are similar to the

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DinkyNotes: Apple News Raffled Bearish Greeting Cards for iPhone and iPad

A person whom you like to give pleasure, not necessarily expensive. There are but the small touches that make the relationship flourish. Exactly for such things is suitable new app DinkyNotes.

With few Fingertips now anyone can send, for example, his friend or girlfriend, a greeting of the ordinary.

In DinkyNotes one has the choice of six fonts that can be combined with 12 font colors. Here,

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Sony Officially Announces to the S1 and S2 Tablet

Barely a month ago already came up with the rumors that Sony would like to enter the Tablet sector. The third-largest electronics company, headquartered in Tokyo announced officially today at the Sony Tablet S1 and S2 and aims to compete with the iPad the immediate race for the Tablet crown. While the S1 is close to what the iPad, the S2 relies on two parts, which are similar to a Nintendo DS.

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Great form Factor and ultra Thin: The iPhone 4 Case Neo Hybrid

And daily rings the postmistress. Today once again hit a small modest parcels in the editorial office. This is a Case iPhone 4 out of the house SGP. What is surprising is the fit and the fact that the form factor of the iPhone 4 is hardly "distorted" by the Case, which comes straight from the EX series particularly well.

The iPhone Cases from SGP combine the materials silicon and polycarbonates

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Currently Free: Garage Inc. for iPhone and iPad (Video)

Who does not know the classic film "The Godfather"? Based on those days of Prohibition, there is the game Garage Inc.. So for all fans of the genre Mafia and Co. is an absolute must-have game that currently is even free,
Story:Angelo Marito is an immigrant who wants to build a business in Chicago. With a loan from Cousin Sal Angelo opened a car repair shop and works for his American dream. The

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Dior 5 Couleurs Palette Fards à Paupières in Rosy Tan for Summer 2011

Yesterday, I showed you Rosy Nude. Today, it's Rosy Tan. The two palettes, introduced for summer, offer pretty variations on a theme: shimmering, sun-kissed colors. I couldn't decide between the two 5 Couleurs Palettes Fards à Paupières ($58), so naturally, I bought them both. It's what a makeup addict does best.

I described all of the characteristics of the palettes yesterday, so I'll direct you to that feature (scroll down or click here) for Dior's description. Here's mine, for what it's worth.

This palette offers a shimmering pink, along with neutral shades that range from shimmering to stain and matte. Once again, the pink is set apart - to my taste, but it's not as jarring to me as it is in Rosy Nude because the brown has a mauve cast. You can see in my swatch photo below right that the pink in the upper left corner mixes nicely with the brown in the upper right corner of the palette. They are the top two shades on my arm.

I swatched the colors using a sponge-tipped applicator and sampled clockwise, starting at top left and ending with the neutral center color shown at the bottom of my arm. The two shades shown at the top of the palette, the pink and mauve-brown, are cool tones that mix nicely. The neutrals at the bottom of the palette are very different. One has a satin finish. The other has a shimmering finish. I like them both. The pale beige in the center looks white on my skin in sunlight, but has a bit more color indoors or away from the sun.

As with the other new 5 Couleurs Palette Fards à Paupières, if there is one shade that's not my favorite, it's the pink. While the two pinks from Rosy Tan and Rosy Nude are different in finish, they are both very pink - not my best look. The other colors? Fabulous! The textures of the new shadows is Dior-like: very creamy, blendable, and long-lasting.

I purchased my new 5 Couleurs Palettes Fards à Paupières at Neiman Marcus. I'm sure other Dior counters have them. I saw the two new palettes at Nordstrom.

Will you buy one of these palettes? Which one?

Photos by BTiB

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Price Reduction: The Good News for iPhone and iPad

Only suitable for completion of Easter we have for you an app that is reduced in price. This is the complete Bible in the translation "Good News Bible".

The English Good News Bible is one of the world's leading Bible translations. In many African countries it is as widespread as in Great Britain or the United States. With its modern, easy to understand language makes the Bible's message to all

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Jobs Reportedly Expressed a "wretched" About Data Storage

As is well known and virtually all media now kicked wide, save the iPhone / iPad, the motion profile of its owner.

We have also reported good enough on the subject.

Apple's opinion there has not been any official to the "data problem". So now is a reader of the blog American MacRumors ado an email to the Apple boss sent personally to find out about more information before he is doing his Apple

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Weekly Review: A Paschal High Summer in the Number of Data Storage

The early summer weather with its "comfortable" temperatures in Germany is not only the rainy Mediterranean countries envy us look, but also drives much of the German population into the open. Above all, the beer gardens and the lakes are likely to present the "main targets" are the enterprising population.

But beware, has "man" or "woman" a smart phone from Apple in the pocket. Because then it

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Data Storage: FDP Also Criticized Apple

In recent days, Apple is because of the data storage to the iPhone and other IOS devices fall heavily criticized. Especially in Germany, this is a very big issue, while the criticism abroad, particularly in the English section, rather is limited. In this country, the issue seems to exhibit a special sensitivity.

Joined the ranks of the critics now, the FDP also. Marco Buschmann, legal expert of

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NARS Queen Soft Touch Shadow Pencil for Summer 2011

The queen would die. NARS Queen Soft Touch Eye Pencil ($24) is a glitter bomb. I don't know how NARS can put out so many incredibly great products, but then introduce an occasional bomb. The Calanque Eyeshadow Trio, introduced with the Spring 2011 Collection, was a washout. Unfortunately, the "gold-infused platinum" in that trio was fairly useless. It had no color. It laid down a sheer sparkle and nothing else. The same is true with the Queen Soft Touch Eye Pencil. It lays down glitter with almost no color.

This smooth and creamy soft touch shadow pencil, in a majestic and modern citrus gold glitter, can be swiped on lids and blended with a fingertip.

The NARS online description of Queen is partially correct. It is smooth and creamy. It's not majestic. Can you find the modern citrus? I tried - I really tried - to get an even application of this pencil shadow. Here are the results on my arm - in bright sun at right above (mostly sunshine) and left, but with a different tilt of my arm vs the sun. I was unsuccessful in applying this shadow, but my photos show the results accurately - uneven, gold glitter, accompanied by almost no green.

Because I have Soft Touch Shadow Pencils I adore, I'm very disappointed. Normally, I don't tell you about products that don't have any characteristic I like. I had to tell you about Queen to prevent you from making the same mistake I did. Do not order this pencil online, sight unseen, thinking you will receive a shimmering parrot green. Go to an arts store and purchase glitter if that's what you want on your eyelids. It will cost a lot less than $24.

Better yet, if you want a shadow pencil, buy the Soft Touch Shadow Pencil in one of the other shades. If you read the word "glitter," though, click away quickly.

Should you like this look, you can purchase the Queen at the NARS Web site and NARS counters, where you will find some exquisite products for Summer 2011. This isn't one of them - in my humble opinion. Fortunately, I'll be telling you about a few I love very soon. The new Multiple - like all the rest of the Multiples - is lust-worthy.

Photo at top courtesy of NARS

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DIRT GUIDE SERIES THIS WEEKEND

Karl Power will be racing this weekend

Words and Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

Motorcycle riders are being spoiled for choice these days it’s not getting any easier.

This weekend will feature two separate outings in the South Waikato region to cater for all tastes and abilities and the choice is actually quite easy, go and ride both days.

In almost any corner of the country you'll see floods of vans, utes and cars with trailers, carting dirt bikes away for another weekend of off-road fun, typically an enjoyable challenge.

And the words "enjoyable" and "challenge" can certainly be used in the same breath when discussing the three-round Dirt Guide Cross-country Series and parallel Dirt Guide Trail Ride Series, now in their fourth season.

Sponsored by Kiwi Rider magazine, the series kicks off this Saturday at a venue called "Tar Hill", about 15 kilometres south of Tokoroa. The following day, a trail ride will be run at the same venue.

“This series is set in the pine forests south of Tokoroa and it has now built a reputation as being a really fun competition,” said organiser Sean Clarke, of Tokoroa.

“There is a class or category that caters for everyone. The tracks for all the events this year have been prepared with a bulldozer, so they should hold up really well, even with this bit of rain we have had lately,” he said.

Previous overall winner Damon Nield, of Hokianga, has entered and national enduro championship contender Karl Power, from Auckland, is also expected to make the journey.

The 90-minute junior race starts at 9.30am, with the two-hour senior race to follow, starting at 12.30pm.

Racing will be on similar terrain to that used for part of the big International Six Days Enduro in November 2006.

Sunday’s trail ride features a 30-kilometre loop and 10-kilometre short loop option for riders too. There is also a one-kilometre course for children. The ride starts at 9.30am.

CALENDAR (trail ride on day two in each case):
Round one, Tar Hill, Tokoroa, April 30, May 1.
Round two, Pylons, Atiamuri, May 28-29.
Round three, Whakamaru, June 25-26.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Sean Clarke
Phone 07-886-5918
Email: foresttrailevent@xtra.co.nz

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Dior 5 Couleurs Palette Fards à Paupières in Rosy Nude for Summer 2011

Until last week, I had been anxiously awaiting the arrival of the new Dior 5 Couleurs Palettes Fards à Paupières in Rosy Nude and Rosy Tan ($58). The arrival of my coveted shadows gave the Dior reps a break; I could stop asking.

Inspired by the haute couture treatment of materials and dyes, these must-have palettes provide what Dior calls Couture Color variations with an "unrivaled Color Art formula." The formula is said to "capture and organize a high concentration of pure radiance micronized pigments to ensure a vibrant color finish," with matte, satiny, and finely shimmering results.

Dior further describes these colors with graphic and verbal descriptions of the shades and how to use them in the directions that come inside the box. I'm delighted with four of these shades. I think the Rosy Nude palette (shown at top left) is gorgeous, and I love the color mix - except for the discordant pink in the center. To my eye, the pink doesn't coordinate well with the neutral variations in the compact. You'll see why in my swatch photo below.

I love the four shades that ring the palette, from a highlighting pinky-peach tone to a matte brown. My swatch photo was taken in very full sunlight, which exaggerates the shimmer. The shadows were applied with a sponge-tipped applicator for maximum color. I swatched clockwise, starting with the pinky-peach at the top left and ending with the pink at the center of the compact.

The highlighting shade looks less pinky-peach and more white on my skin in full sun. In the shade - or indoors - it has more color. There is a close-up of it below. The beautiful golden beige in the upper right corner translates as it is. It's a shade I adore in most palettes - or on its own. The peach in the lower right corner is a great shade - wearable by this cool-toned blond, but wearable by warmer skins too (I think). The brown is a medium golden brown - not terribly dark, which is terrific in my book. Don't these shades coordinate beautifully for a summer look?

Then you throw in that pink in the center. While I love pink and brown together, to my eye this pink and this brown don't play well together. The pink is too dark and cool, and the brown is too light and warm for the two to be paired. Maybe Dior was challenging me to think outside the dark blue, mirrored box?

Four out of five isn't an issue for me. I love four of the shades, so I am pleased. I'll share my impressions of the other new palette, Rosy Tan, very soon. It was also worth the wait. I purchased my new 5 Couleurs Palettes Fards à Paupières at Neiman Marcus. I'm sure other Dior counters have them. I saw the two new palettes at Nordstrom.

What do you think? Would you wear the center pink shade with the other shades in Rosy Nude?

Photos by BTiB

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Should charges be laid?

Consider this scenario:
A man is driving his car and parks it on a hill and stretches his legs. But he didn’t put the handbrake on and the car rolls back and kills your toddler as he was crossing the road. As a parent of this toddler, do you think this man should be charged with careless use of a motor vehicle causing death?

The reason I ask this is because a similar event recently occurred. I`ll call it scenario two.

Mr Macwan, who was driving got out of the Toyota Hiace van to stretch his legs when the vehicle suddenly rolled backwards and plunged into Lake Dunstan. The adults and an 11-year-old escaped but 3-year-old Aarush did not.

That three-year-old was the driver’s son. It’s tragic, and killing your own son in this way must be a life sentence in itself. The story goes on.

The same day police charged him with careless driving causing death. He is due to appear in the Alexandra District Court on Wednesday.

Having to appear in court, charged with accidentally killing your son, on the same week as dealing with your son’s death and arranging and attending that son’s funeral must be tragic.

Some have called for police to show compassion on a man who already has a “life sentence” and not charge this man. Essentially, what they are calling for is for police to decide whether this man should get a criminal conviction for breaking the law – but base that decision solely on matters outside the law.

But convictions are for the courts to decide, considering matters within the law. Others have said charge, but wait until the funeral is over before setting a court date. That illustrates compassion, while rightly giving the decision to the courts, not the police, as to whether this man should be convicted and sentenced.

To put the above two scenarios another way – if someone is likely to have broken the law, should the police decide whether he is a criminal by not prosecuting, or should the police let the courts decide if he should get a criminal conviction or not, by prosecuting?

And if they decide to prosecute, fair enough – but couldn’t they wait until after the funeral before setting a court date?

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Guerlain Terracotta Moisturizing Gloss for Summer 2011

Don't be fooled when you look at Guerlain's new Terracotta Moisturizing Glosses ($30.50)! They are transparent beauties on the lips - not the deep, saturated shades they appear to be in the tubes.

Neon fuchsia, sunny coral, and flamboyant red, these concentrates of color envelop the lips in delicious sheerness with insolent shine and give an instant radiance boost to the face. The secret? A luminous, hydrating, and translucent formula, free of sparkles, makes this a great outdoor choice. This non-sticky gloss can be applied at any time of day - and any time of year - for a beautiful effect.

There are three glosses in the collection: Mambo (08), rather orange; Salsa (07), fuscsia; and Tango (09), also orange-toned. Only Salsa (shown above right) was the right shade for me. I saved some money!

With the decorative cap, these glosses are snazzy in the tube and sheer lovelies on the lips. My swatch photo below shows Salsa, my selection. Even though it seemed outre in the tube, it's everyday wearable - just perfect.

My swatch photo was taken in mid-day sunlight, and I think it shows the shade well. It's a medium-toned gloss, not too light, not overly dark - a pretty shade that will remind you of pink flamingos. Have you ever found a plastic pink flamingo planted in your garden? Friends do that as a prank, but I find them delightful. Many years ago, when the American Hemerocallis Society had its annual meeting in our area and my garden was featured as an open garden, one of my dear friends from Florida planted a flamingo in my front yard. A few years later, I lost my friend to cancer, but inherited her cat, Wee Storm (and one of the most extraordinary turquoise necklaces I have ever seen). I cherished Stormy until the day she left me to join Ray at 22 years of age. Ray and Wee Storm were both "great people."

Anyhow, because of its coloring, this gloss reminds me of them - and I will think of them when I wear it. It's got that Florida garden color - bright and happy pink. I love it!

You can find the Terra Inca Collection, with which this gloss is displayed, at Nordstrom and Saks. I'll tell you about the extraordinary bronzer next.

Photo at top courtesy of Nordstrom

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(App-test) Blogging with the iPad: Blogsy

For some time I would like an application, which allows me to blog directly and conveniently with the iPad an article. Especially with the current weather situation we have preferred uses every ray of sunshine, instead of sitting in a dark cave.
The incumbent members, the App Store programs offered shows, unfortunately, not as comfortable and intuitive, as I would personally wish for a iPad Touch

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Samsung vs. Apple Countersuit and Galaxy S3 vs. iPhone 5

As a few days ago, Samsung has announced now that the action of responding to Apple and a patent lawsuit against the company from Cupertino filed on his part.

In a total of three countries, South Korea, Japan and Germany, manufacturer of the Galaxy for patent infringement against Apple filed suit. The District Court in Seoul is about the infringement of five patents, in Tokyo there are two cases

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Apple Does Not Protect the Term "Startup"

The Apple Group has come up once again to protect a new concept in law. That this is about the word "startup" is seems, but at first glance to be a little strange. Hereby, it is not at all that what you probably first connects with the word, but rather a planned future service performance of Apple.

"Startup" is not only a young company, but is probably also a service call to Apple retail stores

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Video: World First 'Bash' for the iPad 2 is Here

Some games are on the iPad to be solved by mental work. Here one thinks first and foremost on knowledge and puzzle games. But bash ' is quite different, since one must also move his head to reach his goal. A world first in the genre that we here want to imagine. But beware, the game has been designed for iPad 2 only!
The story:Since the user is happy: He has just bought one of the rare iPad 2

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Bavarian Data Protection Commissioner Demands Investigation of Apple for iPhone Data Storage

The "data scandal" to the storage of movement profiles on the iPhone / iPad and computers continues to beat high waves in the media and political landscape in Germany.

As the Focus has reported, the Bavarian Data Protection Commissioner Thomas Kranig been approached in writing by letter to Apple and calls on the company, data storage on iPhone / computer and immediately investigate the iPad.

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Larger Icons and Wallpapers 10.7: Retina Displays in Macs

All the icons of the Apple applications on a Mac running Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard come in different sizes, depending on which area of ​​the system will be displayed. The maximum resolution is 512 × 512 (see screenshot), how to see as the program schedule. In the latest build version of the next Apple operating system, Mac OS x 10.7 Lion, the maximum size of the ion, however, doubled (expressed

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Guerlain Terra Inca Ombré Fusion Cream Eyeshadow

Guerlain's gorgeous Terra Inca Collection for Summer 2011 is an enticing complement to the Terracotta Collection for 2011. With different items, but also a summer theme, the Terra Inca Collection is extremely appealing. I purchased several pieces, and I'm starting my series with the Terra Inca Ombré Fusion Cream Eyeshadow ($35).

Guerlain's first cream eye shadows specially created for summer, the three Ombré Fusion Cream Eyeshadows are unique, offering the softness of a powder, the richness of a cream, and the lightness of water. They apply like a creamy liquid, which dries quickly. The shadows offer a spectacular lightly metallic effect - really a subtle shimmer that's appropriate for glamorous outdoor wear. The effect of the shadows on the skin is striking. Guerlain says the coverage will last from dawn to dusk, and I believe it. These shadows don't wash off with ease. They're designed to resist heat and dips in the ocean.

The shadows are housed in a lip gloss-like tube, right down to the dot-foot applicator. There are three shades: Bahia (01), Havana (02), and Maya (03) - all places with coastlines. I purchased all three at Nordstrom Tysons Corner Center, mostly so that I could play with them at home. I had a feeling that Havana might be dark from its appearance in the tester, but I've already found a way to lighten it on the skin.

The shades are swatched on my arm, with Bahia at the top, Havana in the middle, and Maya at the bottom. My photo was taken in weak sunlight (you take what you can get!). I started to show you the shadows entirely unblended, but I realized they needed a bit of a blend. I spread them - didn't really blend them well - with my fingertip. Havana had started to dry when I tried to blend it, so it looks very dark (and it is if not blended).

Bahia is a stunning summer peach. You will find it pretty on its own or combined with other shades. Havana is brown, probably better suited to dark skins, not mine. The trick for me is to put it on my palm, pick up the color quickly with a cream shadow brush, and apply it to the outer corner of the lid and crease with haste. Once it dries, it's going to stay put. You may think this is a lot of trouble for a brown shadow, and you would be right. I wanted it, though, so I had to find a way to use it. I love its pure brown color; it's a perfect shade for my skin tone, once blended. The more "adaptable" or wearable shade of brown is Maya. It has a bit of copper in it, which tempers the color. In my photo above, you'll see that I was more successful in finger-blending it. By the time I got to the third swatch, I was ready with my "technique." Maya is a shade that's easier to use. I think it will be the first choice for many.

These are beautiful shadows, and their long-lasting quality will be perfect for lazy days at the pool or beach. For those of us who want that look, but won't be hanging out by the water, they evoke the summer mood. Once you get the hang of blending them on your eyelid, you'll find that they give you a stunning beach-side look. Who doesn't like that?

I have seen the Terra Inca Collection at Nordstrom, and I understand Saks has it too. I waited a long time to find it at Neiman Marcus, but never did. I am wondering, as I've read, if it's exclusive to certain stores (Nordstrom and Saks). If that's the case, a certain Guerlain rep should have known (blogger says ruefully). The collection is gorgeous.

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom

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