You guys are super! Thanks for all the advice! I am totally going to try the post-it thing tomorrow - I will keep you all updated as to the results.

Also, Lolita, thanks for the heads up about the lengthening v thickening issues in the Bourjois "Oui...non..." mascara...though...

...I have to admit (sheepishly) - I ordered the purple and blue ones today anyway, just cuz I too am a sucker for adorable packaging and naming, but I am glad, considering your advice, that I didn't order the black one, as that is more my everyday color (these will be just for fun) and for everyday I really need thickening rather than lengthening. I think I actually have pretty long lashes (something I have only realized recently), its just that they about halfway to the end, they get SUPER blond so you can't tell how long they really are, and they are also not the thickest on the block.

Sorry to go on and on, but one more thing...

...Having used the NYC Maximum Boost Volumizing mascara again today, I really need to make a plug for it as a great drugstore brand - it goes on really nicely and easily, without alot of wand wiping or post application futzing - which is nice for insanely lazy girls like me. And also, while it doesn't say waterproof anywhere on it, I just got caught in a total downpour, and it really stayed pretty intact without giving me awful raccoon eyes.

Whew! think this post was long enough?!! :P