Doe Deere Blogazine

Remember in 2008 there was a meme – a questionnaire about how you’d spent your last year? Ever since, on my birthday I mentally go through those questions and try to come up with answers for myself. So, here you go!

1. What did you do this year that you’d never done before?

Went vegetarian for 2 weeks. I wanted to for the longest time but was afraid I couldn’t do it; now I know that I can. Unfortunately timing for this particular endeavor wasn’t the best, but I have since minimized my meat intake significantly. Eventual vegetarianism is a good goal to have.

2. Did you keep your last years’ resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

My main resolution for year 28 was to stop being afraid of getting old. I did it – by re-defining the term from no longer looking young to mental stagnation. I am never going to stagnate – and therefore I will never get old by my definitions. Also, most people I admire happen to be in their 30s, which give me confidence that those years are going to be my best and most productive yet!

3. What would you like to have in the next year that you lacked last year?

Um… *modestly* a salary? I think we had some great beginnings here, so 29 is going to be all about building structure.

4. What date will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

The day Jessica Harlow snapped a picture of the Lime Crime display at Bloomingdale’s – and sent it to me. That’s when the reality of it all hit. I will always remember meeting my fans and customers during the SpaceNK tour – a life-changing experience for me.

5. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Launching in SpaceNK and doing the tour.

6. What was your biggest failure?

Not being able to visit my grandfather in Ukraine. Last time I called I couldn’t get through either. I’m getting worried.

7. What was the best thing you bought?

Puggy Puggleton. $1, thriftstore. Talk about a conversation starter!

8. Whose behavior merited celebration?

Lady Gaga’s. True artist, visionary and icon – never give up. Words cannot express how much respect and admiration I have for this woman.

9. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

I was disappointed in Katy Perry’s remark about Gaga’s video. She said ‘Alejandro’ was blasphemous without a purpose. I disagree. Ironically, Katy’s California Gurls video is rather provocative, and over-sexualization is the oldest form of blasphemy. The only reason Katy is able to get away with it is because Madonna – who was also judged – challenged it and made it more acceptable.

10. Where did most of your money go?

Back into the business, and shoes.

11. What did you get really, really, really excited about?

The lipstick launch in October, and my new haircut – love it, can’t get enough of it!

12. What song will always remind you of 2008?

Replay, by Iyaz. When I first heard it, I thought, “Jason Mraz went pop?!” haha.

13. Compared to this time last year, are you:

i. Happier or sadder?

Happier!

ii. Thinner or fatter?

A little pudgier, but working on it. :)

iii. richer or poorer?

Poorer, but only because all the money’s tied up in investments.

14. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Gone out and met new people. Traveling made me realize how much I love getting to know interesting people.

15. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Cared about what people say on the internet.

16. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

I don’t hate, I get mildly annoyed. There is always going to be someone to be annoyed by, but I think what’s most important is focusing on the people who bring you joy.

17. What was the best book you read?

Lessons of a Lipstick Queen by Poppy King = my bible!

18. What did you want and get?

The feeling on being on top again. It’s an amazing feeling, but you have to fight for it!!

19. How would you describe your personal fashion concept?

28 was the year of change; I spent the first half of the year doing the bright-bright-bright thing, almost on autopilot, without questioning it. Second half of the year I began expanding my fashion interests beyond what I already know. I am eager to explore many new looks, including those I’m afraid of!

20. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned.

Everyone deserves a chance, but good graces have to be earned.