Becks and the City

Fabulous Fridays: 10 February 2012

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:28:00 +0000

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnd............................ we're back! We hopped off our flight home this morning and I'm ready to serve up some Fabulous Friday goodness...

A little bit geeky, a little bit romantic: heart emoticon ring on Etsy.
Before Whoopi Goldberg did the whole convent thing, this movie was one of my faves as a kid.
Rather rad Swedish fashion blog by Frida Fahrman.
One of the yummiest teas ever (except for rocky road, of course!). Become a ginger ninja.
The title makes it sounds like a how-to for drug lords, but it's actually really cool: Grow Your Own Drugs.
Goodness, just watched this and it should come with a warning label. Sorry Meg Ryan, but The Women royally sucks!
ZOMFG, a brilliant blog for LEGO nerds like me!
Doing the rounds on Twitter and justly so, this woman speaking on gay marriage rights rocks.
With Valentine's Day around the corner, have you ever dreamed of writing greeting cards?
I understand almost zero of the words, but have become a total fan girl of Kana Nishino.
The perfect Valentine's Day shoes. Red, patent, perfection. : )

Rock on! : )

Gone Flying. Back 9 February!

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:44:00 +0000

Hello hello! Just jotting a quick note to let you know I'll be travelling to Malaysia tomorrow for my friends' wedding!

Sadly, that means no Fabulous Friday post this week. Fear not, however. I have some juicy things lined up for you upon my return on 9 February, including an interview with a clever intern, a magazine guide and reviews of some adorable new glossies I've discovered here and there. Plus, all the goss from my travels.

In the meantime, I'll be updating Twitter and Facebook still, so pop by and have a chat there, if you'd like.

Love you all!

xx

Becks

Fabulous Fridays: 27 January 2012

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:43:00 +0000

Time for a cuppa and a good lie down ahead of an energetic weekend, or to set the tone for a relaxed one. Either way, let's explore what's fabulous and fascinating this week...

In honour of Australia Day yesterday, a sweet scene from one of my fave movies ever, The Castle.
Cute crafty blog: Misako Mimoko.
Cindy Crawford has outraged some commentators by allowing her daughter to model at 10 years old. Meh, it's not a sexual pose, and kids need clothes too, right?
An Alice in Wonderland "Drink Me" potion by Heston Blumenthal and his guests' reactions. We've been amazed watching his DVDs this week.
Wait, what? Heidi Klum and Seal are divorcing. Noooooo! Or maybe not?
Discovered a sensational clothing brand this week: Qoo Qoo. Most wanted: the Sunday Cloud tights.
Whoa, respect! So tiny, yet such a fantastic tumbler! : )
Sex and the City's Cynthia Nixon has come under fire for saying she chose to be gay. I say: it's her sexuality, it's up to her how she arrived at the destination.
When leopard print attacks!
The page for the new iPad app of Women's Health & Fitness magazine, including a screenshot from my latest article, "Desk Sentence". Looks great. : )
Love a good tennis tantrum and Marcos Baghdatis is actually a favourite player of mine. What can I say? He's passionate and expressive!
The best So You Think You Can Dance performance ever to a killer song by Aussie electro duo, The Presets. Unequaled.

Have a good one. xx

Wheels + Dollbaby Challenge: Update #1

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:33:00 +0000

My new challenge for 2012 is to finish the zine I'm creating, Magazine Love. Here's the lowdown...

In early January, I posted "Hello 2012!" on this blog, in which I outlined my goals for the year, including the Wheels + Dollbaby Challenge. The Challenge is aimed at spurring me on to finish and launch Magazine Love, which I started late last year. Once this happens, I've promised myself free reign of the delectable Wheels & Dollbaby online store.

At this stage, I've finished 16 out of 25 double pages of the zine, so I'm getting towards the pointy end. Of course, I could just purge the last 9 pages and call it a day, but I really want to create a quality zine, something I would enjoy reading (and hopefully you will too!). I'm not quite satisfied with it yet. Today I got through the pages in the Zines section, so I'm gradually getting there!

So, here's the remaining pages I need to complete to meet the challenge:

Sporty and Zen
Fashion and Alternative
Letters
Reuse, Recycle
Giftwrapping
Gift Tags
Gift Baskets

I'll update you as I cross them off. Not long now!

Any advice to help motivate me? I'm all ears. : )

Fabulous Fridays: 20 January 2012

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:38:00 +0000

I'm finding the life of a features writer isn't all glamour, especially when you get a mid-week migraine (owie!). Let's see if we can find a cure...

Does Zooey Deschanel have champagne-flavoured nipples or something? The whole world has the hots for her in a major way right now and I just don't get it!
I'll be whipping this up for lunch today using leftover roast vegetables. Looks easy enough even for me. : )
Like Etsy, art, nature, jewellery and dreamy pictures? Step right this way to the JooJoo blog.
I'm crushing on Lula magazine right now. For fans of alternative fashion glossies like Frankie, Russh, and YEN.
If you're not already following hilarious Star Trek legend, George Takei (on Twitter, on Facebook), do yourself a favour!
My favourite stationery store, Typo, recently raised the ire of conservative Christian feminist, Melinda Tankard Reist for selling "pornographic" products... marketed towards adults. Overreaction, much?
Want a flawless look? Get Fotoshop by Adobe. Love.
The new version of '80s hit, Young Talent Time, will hit Aussie TVs this week. You can blame the original for launching Kylie and Dannii Minogue and Tina Arena into stardom. Sorry.
Hello sailor! Gorgeous.
My friend Nicola sent me this link: The Six Weirdest Cities People Actually Live In. Who wants to visit fun-sized Disneyland with me?
Feel like you're always in the dark? Leave a light on, I say.

A little Friday frivolity always cures what ails ya! Have a good one. : )

I Tried... Visiting a Psychic!

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

When I decided to tick "visiting a psychic" off my bucket list, I didn't realise there'd be a psychic fair in my suburb the very next weekend. It was like it was meant to be...

In matters of the mystic, I consider myself an "open-minded skeptic" (aka fence-sitter). I've suspected I was clairvoyant on occasion when I accurately predicted, say, my dropped toast would land butter side down, but it usually turned out to be well-founded pessimism in disguise.

With this in mind, I dragged Mr Big along to the psychic fair and for a mere fiver, was admitted entry to the local arts centre transformed into a world where hippies ruled supreme. Middle-aged women sauntered among trestle tables of healing crystals, boxed tarot card sets, incense and bohemian jewellery of questionable style, but the psychics were where the real action was, at $30 or more a pop (ouch!).

Poor Mr Big looked terminally bored. I left him browsing books with titles like Find Your Guardian Angel and What Colour is My Aura? and stepped up to the only available psychic's table for a 20-minute tarot reading. She looked, well, like a pretty, thin, middle-aged lady with a kindly face bare of makeup. Not especially hippy-like. Good start, as far as appearances can take you.

I confessed to being a newbie and asked how we should proceed. She explained as she got me to shuffle and cut the card deck that I could either ask a specific question or have a general reading. I opted for the latter. Some nice-sounding cards came up in the latticework arrangement she made on the table. Except the hanged man. I hoped that wasn't a bad one.

When we started, I deliberately didn't reveal anything about myself to see what she would come up with unprompted. She zoned in on career questions, explaining I had many possible paths and that I should try to extend myself and learn new things (like trying a pyschic reading, perhaps?). She said my partner is very accommodating (correct) and that she could see travel to nordic countries like Denmark (Legoland?!).

All of her predictions sounded positive and in tune with my past, future goals and present plans. I was a bit puzzled when she could see pharmacy or chemistry around me, but hey, maybe she was predicting last night's jab in the bum to cure my migraine? Who knows. In any event, even the hanged man turned out to have a positive interpretation, something about the bubbles surrounding him representing opportunities I can pluck out of the air.

And there you have it, I'm all predicted up and ready to kick my future in the balls. Or something.

Have you visited a psychic? Did they have any startling predictions for you?

The 4-hour Work Week

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 01:27:00 +0000

There was such a huge buzz surrounding this book, I just had to check it out...

I hate business books, as a general rule. To me, they always seem to be filled with vague mantras like "work smarter, not harder", without giving examples of how to actually put the concept into practice. Plus, their hard-sell language on the back cover always puts me right off.

I made an exception for Tim Ferriss's book because, frankly, who can resist the lure of working 4 hours a week? Plus, everyone seemed to be raving about it, so there must be something to it, right?

Damn straight, there is! He challenges what we've all been trained to believe from a young age: that to be a good citizen, we should work 40 hours per week in a boring job until we're 65 or so and then retire. By retirement age we're often too old to really enjoy ourselves. Instead, why not take mini-retirements throughout your life and work as little as possible? Sounds good to me.

Before you go thinking Tim is one lazy SOB, here's a quick run-down of his achievements:

Princeton University guest lecturer in high-tech entrepreneurship
First American in history to hold a Guinness World Record in tango
Advisor to more than 30 world-record holders in professional and Olympic sports
Wired magazine's "Greatest Self-Promoter of 2008"
National Chinese kickboxing champion
Horseback archer (yabusame) in Nikko, Japan
Political asylum researcher and activist
MTV breakdancer in Taiwan
Hurling competitor in Ireland
Actor on hit TV series in mainland China and Hong Kong (Human Cargo)

Impressive, huh? Not only does he share how he's done all this, there's plenty of challenges, online resources, examples, worksheets and links to templates on his web site to help you emulate his success. If you even take away one of his tips in the book, you'd see your life improve, but even if you don't implement any of his suggestions, you'll definitely enjoy the plethora of cheeky anecdotes from Tim, his friends and previous readers.

The principles are certainly applicable to writers and freelancers -- how to "batch" your work tasks, not get distracted during the work day, and ease your way out of a 9-5 job and increasingly work from home. They have definitely helped me.

I borrowed this book from the library, read it, bought the expanded edition on Amazon and then reread it. This is one you'll want to return to again and again until you wear the words off the page.

Read it IMMEDIATELY. Thank me later.

Rating: 10/10.

Have you read The 4-hour Work Week? What did you think?

Fabulous Fridays: 13 January 2012

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 06:26:00 +0000

Yes, it's one of those spooky Friday the 13th editions of Fab Friday *shivers*. Quick, distract yourself with these finds of the week...

Dottie Angel blog. Embroidered elegance and jolly, jaunty designs. Do stop by. : )
I'm drawn to the vintage clothes and unique storyline of Mad Men, but can't decide if I'd have to grit my teeth through all the sexism towards women.
The three houses are the best -- floating, hobbit and LEGO -- amongst the 10 most awe-inspiring projects of 2011. What's your fave?
While I'm keen to live a simpler lifestyle this year, I'm not ready to go money-free like this German grandmother.
When dolls and food collaborate to bring you syrupy sweet pictures: 50 Picks Daily blog. You can't help but smile. : )
Getting groovy the old school way. Hands up who remembers that song?
DIY one-ingredient face masks sound just dandy to me. Kind to your wallet, the earth and your skin.
Um... it's not only kids who buy stationery, you know, and some of us actually have a sense of humour... Poor Typo, I think they were hard done by.
Everyone needs a tiny, playable harmonica.
The controversial issue of making overweight airline passengers pay a fuel surcharge reared its head this week. Tricky. Your thoughts?

Just don't walk past a black cat or under a ladder in your stilettos and you should be fine. Happy Friday!

Query Letter: "Peppermint" Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 04:17:00 +0000

Many of you would know of my long-standing love affair with Peppermint magazine. Writing for them would be a dream come true, but unfortunately it wasn't to be this time around. I never got a response to this pitch I emailed...

I'm a freelance writer from Adelaide who's been published by magazines including Women's Health & Fitness and Cosmo Bride. Samples of my work are available on my blog, Becks and the City.

What's a girl to do when she meets injustice in the world? Unfortunately, the modern answer can often be worry about the cause, but not know how to solve the problem.

It's time to bring back the elegantly-phrased protest letter!

I'd like to use my experience working for a state minister and hobby of serial letter-writing to magazines (a major glossy once published seven of my letters in one year -- I stopped before they took out a restraining order) to bring "Make a Statemint" to Peppermint readers. Covering the different causes, where to address your letters and when to start or join a petition, the article would provide a gentle, politically-neutral guide to practicing your penmanship and literary fist-shaking all at the same time.

Coming to 1,000 words, the article would be delivered within two weeks of hearing you're interested.

Yours sincerely,

Rebecca Douglas

Not sure what went wrong. : ( Please send me any advice you can muster!

Wedding Words for Writers

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 23:06:00 +0000

A wedding is not a time where you want to be stuck for words. Here's a few to get you started.

Occasion, nuptials, marriage, countdown, proposal, romance, passionate, bridal, bouquet boutique, floral, flowers, bonboniere, stationery, catering, event, gown, frock, festive, merry-making, enjoyment, DJ, musician, celebrant, seasons, bubbly, champagne, toast, speech, cocktail, dinner, brunch, ballroom, invitation, embossed, bejewelled, pampering, beauty regime, makeup, toned, trim, boot camp, tanned, lighting, rings, personalised, intricate, simple, elegant, graceful, first dance, train, fascinator, hair clip, veil, bow, lace-up, pearlescent, glittery, buttons, lapel, moonlit, candles, special, soiree, delicate, embroidered, sweetheart neckline, ruching, bustle, control underwear, strapless, decolletage, sprinkled, cupcake, fruit cake, croquembouche, pastry, artistry, beach, garden, hotel, homestead, sculptures, drinks, embellished, family, intimate, regal, lavish affair, trickling, fountain, suits, dinnerware, registry, honeymoon, destination, elope, budget, chic, mother-in-law, father-in-law, plans, decorations, organisation, weather, chandelier, processional, ceremony, buck's night, hen's night, venue, dressmaker, florist, toasting, menu, ritual, entree, main, dessert, organza, tulle, lace, silk, taffeta, vintage, layered, modern, traditional, conservative, groomsmen, bridesmaids, jewellery, entertainment, details, off-white, cream, coffee, ivory, satin, favours, theme, roses, peonies, tulips, image, portrait, photography, angles, capture, dress, chapel, table runner, church, groom, ruffle, wispy, sheath, corset, mermaid, princess, chair covers, de-stress, diamantes, maid-of-honour, pavillion, garden, marquee, bodice, Hollywood glamour, celebration, confetti.

Any I've left off the list?

Fabulous Fridays: 6 January 2012

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 06:41:00 +0000

How's 2012 been treating you so far? Easing your way in or bursting into the new year, we could all do with a dose of the delightful...

We miss you, Patrick, but we'll always have Dirty Dancing to remember you by.
It isn't even a fair contest -- Cake or Death? Get your bloggy sugar fix here.
Who needs a meat schnitty when you could enjoy eggplant parmigiana instead?
I'm thinking the Girls! Girls! Girls! CD would be a good investment in my future of raunchy dancing. Plus, it has a cute cover, so it's bound to sound good, right?
The story of the 30-something woman who decided to advertise for a sugar daddy: Sugarbabe. One of my absolute faves for its insights on men. Read it!
Would you let your car be plastered in advertising for money? I'm considering it, but can't decide if it's selling out or money-making genius. PS, if it were an ad for troll dolls, I'd say yes in a heartbeat!
A biochemist by day and Las Vegas pole dancer by night. Can you think of a better superhero?
Back in the '80s, I used to traipse around a pixellated wonderland as Sir Graham for hours playing King's Quest (nerrrrrd!). Best. Fridge magnet. EVER!!!
We're cooking this low-fat Vietnamese chicken salad for dinner at tonight's girls night at my house. Can't wait. : )

What's new @ Becks and the City

Facebook: New favourite Vogue covers in my gallery, including Kate Moss.
Facebook: CLEO magazine quoted me on lipstick in the January issue, but screwed up my age!
Etsy: Find precious vintage and handmade pieces Carrie would be sure to appreciate in my Sex and the City: Carrie's Closet treasury.
Facebook: New gallery of fashion drawings by Megan Hess, illustrator for several Candace Bushnell books, including Sex and the City.
Facebook: More girly indie publications you'll adore in the ZINES gallery, including a Sex and the City comic and the first issue of Cosmopolitician!

That's it 'til next week. Cheerio!

Hello 2012!

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 07:48:00 +0000

2011 is, like, sooooooooo last year.

And not everything last year went to plan.

I had two writing goals for 2011, to create a kick-ass magazine writing portfolio (tick!) and to get my non-fiction book published (FAIL). To help myself along, I issued challenges to myself with highly desirable rewards for inspiration. When I was satisfied with my portfolio, I treated myself to a beautiful cardigan in the Alannah Hill Challenge. My quest to own a pair of sweet little mouse flats in the Marc Jacobs Challenge didn't fare so well.

Let's take a look at the flip side -- my personal goals for 2011. I had nine, I accomplished... two (improving my writing portfolio and going on a girls' trip), and the second one was only because my friend's husband organised it, not me. Yikes, that's not a great strike rate! In the words of Carrie, "If I was a ball player, I'd be batting... whatever really bad is".

Rather than feel guilty (such a wasted emotion), this year I'm going to alter my approach. So, hang onto your fedoras, ladies, here's the plan as we delve into 2012... : )

Firstly, I'm resuscitating the Marc Jacobs Challenge, which since the beginning of 2011, has only had two updates (naughty, naughty!). And, I'm introducing...

The Wheels & Dollbaby Challenge

Picture Alannah Hill clothing with a stronger '50s edge, worn by the likes of Dita Von Teese, Gwen Stefani and Katy Perry and with rockstar prices to match. Check out the gloriously girly eboutique here.

So, if I win this challenge, I'm giving myself dangerously free reign in the W&D store. To earn it? This should hopefully be easy -- finish and launch my zine, Magazine Love. For my first blog post on this new challenge, I'll outline my game plan. : )

Personal Goals

As for my personal goals, I've decided to take a fresh approach. Even though my current bucket list is rather small, it still has enough items to overwhelm me. The multi-tasker in me wants to begin all of them at once and then gets frustrated, so I'm keeping things simple and... where I can see them.

In 2012, I'm introducing a mini bucket list on the Becks and the City sidebar to show you my latest personal goals -- hobbies I'd like to take up, experiences I'd like to try, my travel wishlist, etc. You can even send me suggestions. Big and small aspirations will be included and feel free to share with me whether you've tried any of them or your tips for succeeding! I plan for it to be an ever-changing kaleidoscope of experiences and you'll hear about when I succeed in ticking off an item. Boy, will you hear about it! ; )

So that's the plan. What do you think? And what do you think of my current mini bucket list?

Goodbye 2011

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 11:33:00 +0000

Beck's year 2011...

Enjoyed being part of a live TV audience for a football show, along with Mr Big and friends.
Revelled in the glorious tackiness that is the Eurovision Song Contest.
Completed my first paid copywriting assignment for a recruitment agency's blog.
Placed 3rd in an amateur pole dancing competition by performing a routine to Jason Derulo's "In My Head".
Was a bridesmaid for my very close friends, Alexis and Ying, in a lovely October ceremony.
Experienced my first spray tan, massage and facial and shortest haircut (a bob) in ten years.
Won the Alannah Hill Challenge by compiling a nice little magazine writing portfolio and bought myself a pretty cardigan as a reward.
Became hooked on the fist-pumping, hard-drinking action in Jersey Shore.
Celebrated a delightful first anniversary in Sydney with Mr Big, exploring Taronga Zoo, discovering the amazing Kinokuniya bookstore and eating at Pie Face and Wagamama.
Became hooked on zines and started creating Magazine Love.
Dressed as a Strawberry Shortcake character, in a masquerade mask and as a pirate for friends' birthdays.
Survived the fifty-billion musical numbers we watched in a stage production of Miss Saigon.
Worked as a guerrilla secretary in a private boys' college, tree-lopping company, hospital, car dealership, solar panel provider, law firm and old folks' home, amongst others. Almost worked for Witchery.
Witnessed my football team's worst thrashing in the club's history live in Melbourne.
Hosted the first Becks and the City giveaway.
Let my inner nerd out to play at my first comic convention and saw Lance Henriksen (the android, Bishop, in Aliens) speak live.
Wrote for Women's Health & Fitness and eBayLife magazines, and scored a gig as assistant editor for The Essential Guide to Twitter.
Won a VIP backstage pass to a fashion parade and enjoyed a personal styling session, makeup application by The Body Shop, meeting hot cricket stars and getting a behind-the-scenes view of the modelling world with my mother-in-law and two friends.
Nearly collapsed learning to dance the can-can.
Enjoyed a full 12 months off from my regular 9-5 occupation to write, write, write.

Thanks 2011, you've been amazeballs and awesomesauce!

Wanna see my 2010 list? Here it is.

Fabulous Fridays: 30 December 2011

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 12:02:00 +0000

In the New Year, let's hope for many happy returns of Fabulous Friday. And the countdown begins...

I'm a big fan of Bailey's -- it's like dessert in a bottle, so why not try your hand at the homemade version?
My latest songstress crush, continuing my obsession with Brit musicians: Duffy.
Have a few issues of Cleo and Cosmo occupying valuable real estate on your coffee table? Make bows for your giftwrapping.
Everyone needs Patricia Field silver jeans. At least, I do. : )
Oh my goodness, I think I've found my 2012 diary, and it's made from a recycled Little Golden Book! Also.
The incredibly talented lady behind the pic above? Megan Hess, illustrator for none other than Candace Bushnell!
Anyone else gagging to see the new Sherlock Holmes movie? PS: bitch please, what sort of name is Noomi?
Inhabiting my DVD player this week: New York City Ballet Workout. It's even endorsed by SJP. Win.
Tuxedo leggings. Bring a modicum of class to your comfiness... or a lot.
Because no one is friends with those mongrel little cubes of '80s torture. Actually, I solved it in my teens, no clue how it happened!

Hello Lover!

Pinup Couture Pink Satin Cutiepie T-Strap Pump

10... 9... 8... 7... 6... 5... 4... 3... 2... 1... HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Query Letter: Madison Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:42:00 +0000

Here's another pitch email that disappeared into the ether along with my dignity and those lost socks from the dryer. I never heard back from Madison about my fantastic feng shui idea...

I'm a freelance writer and mediator for Consumer Affairs who's been published by magazines including Women's Health & Fitness and Cosmo Bride. Samples of my work are available on my blog, Becks and the City.

Feng shui, the Chinese system of aesthetics combining the laws of heaven and earth, shows no signs of waning in popularity. Mystical though it may be, feng shui can teach us a lot about making our lives orderly so every facet functions smoothly. Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow and Julia Roberts all reportedly use its principles to improve their lives and I'd like to write "Feng Shui Your Life" to help Madison readers do the same.

With advice from experts in the field and modern life coaches, the piece would contain sections focussing on transforming your happiness, house, health, wealth and general prosperity. A breakout box could highlight celebrity adherents to feng shui and give examples of how they've used it in ways readers can emulate at home.

Coming to 1,800 words, the article would be delivered within two weeks of hearing you're interested.

Yours sincerely,

Rebecca Douglas

I must not have sent my pitch on an auspicious occasion. Or was it something I said?

Fabulous Fridays: 23 December 2011

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 07:55:00 +0000

THE CHRISTMAS ISSUE

A very Carrie Christmas to you! Just one sleep to go until fun, family, food and fabulousness. : ) Here's a few sprinkles of festive magic to tide you over...

Remember Carrie's Christmas gift from her assistant Louise in the first Sex and the City movie? It was a DVD of Meet Me in St Louis.
Martha Stewart teaches us how to make a snow globe. Gorgeous and glittery.
Hooray for anonymous Kmart shoppers getting into the Christmas spirit!!! So lovely. : )
Their handbags are not ultra-affordable, but the Burberry festive video sure is. See it here.
When you don't mind the calorie count, you seriously can't go past Nigella's cooking: her egg nog recipe.
Christmas craft and decorating eye candy -- My Little Jedi magazine via Hostess with the Mostess blog.
The Killers do Christmas, cowboy-style. Ummm...?
Sparkly reindeer and snowman cookies. Yum!
How cheery are these magical gnome Mary Janes? I so should have found these in time for wearing Christmas Day. D'oh!
On my travel wishlist: Ice Hotel, Sweden. Very cool (literally!).
Nobody does a moving story like Dickens and nobody does merry-making like the Muppets. You get both in one of my favourite movies, The Muppet Christmas Carol.

Merry Christmas! xx

The Mini-Update

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:33:00 +0000

I'm back to playing secretary this week, so between that and last minute Christmas shopping, I can't stop long to chat...

So here's the briefest of updates on my writing projects right now:

Magazines: I emailed a pitch to a gardening glossy tonight about the writer/garden designer I met on my recent seaside holiday.
Blogging/copywriting: My first ever paid blog post (for a recruiting company) was well-received, but the company is still deciding how they want to use it. It remains in the unpublished ether for now. Sigh.
Zine: I'm writing my own zine about magazines. Progress was excellent last week -- I wrote about movies and gifts for mag hags and pasted in some cute and quirky pictures. This week I'm still inspired, but haven't had the time to keep going yet. Stay tuned!

Have you been squeezing writing and other activities around your festive preparations? If you're doing it well, let me in on your secrets! ; )

Fabulous Fridays: 16 December 2011

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 07:48:00 +0000

If you're restive for the festive season, take a break, chill and have some fun...

Stolen Sharpie Revolution 2 arrived in the mail earlier this week Hurrah!!! It's tiny, but info-packed. Absolutely recommended if you dream of releasing your own zine.
Seth from The O.C. explains Jewish-Christian super-holiday, Chrismukkah. Don't knock it 'til you've tried it.
Wanna spread seasonal cheer in a totally morbid way? Then Goth Christmas cards are just the ticket.
Like girly-girl pastels and sweet little Japanese motifs? Don't miss the Drop Dead Cute blog. I can't get enough!
I'm not usually a rev-head, but this little pink ride is molto bella.
One of the best TV shows EVER, It's a Knockout. They've even brought it back, 2011-style. Hooray!!!
How to look like a total muppet... in a good way: OPI's Muppet collection of nail polishes. My pick: glittery Rainbow Connection.
Did you read Two-Minute Mysteries as a kid? If not, what were you doing with your time??? I loved 'em.
If they give a (transgender) man bountiful boobs, imagine how these bras could enhance your cleavage. Clever.
I would be a much more enthusiastic cook if Christopher Walken taught me.
My childhood book addiction (well, one of many) is now a series of graphic novels. The Baby-Sitters Club never looked so hip!
A visual guide to making Christmas stockings. Easy enough even for me!

Merry Chrismukkah!

Fabulous Fridays: 9 December 2011

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:55:00 +0000

When I'm not busy riding camels and dressing in cherry-red Dorothy-from-Oz shoes, I'm scouring the web for the best and brightest picks...

Roxette's "Almost Unreal" definitely does that hocus pocus to me, although the Super Mario video clip weirds me out!
The funkiest tutorial ever for making pop-up cards at The Hairpin. OMFG!
Finally the world has come around to my view on Miranda Kerr.
... And on a related note -- the decline of the western world can all be linked back to her (check out the pic). Thought-provoking.
What I'll be cooking this week: chicken a la king. My dance teacher's from South Africa and apparently it's a fave over there. I'll give it a go.
Don't mess with these elf sheilas, they're packing heat!
How to go from self-published to a big publishing deal. Yes please, where do I sign up???
A truly splendid blog celebrating vintage style: The Crafty Minx.
Dr Cox is the funniest lovable bastard in the history of TV. Enjoy.
Borrowed from the library, but now on my wish list: The Beginner's Guide to Preserving Food at Home. Your granny will be proud when you start whipping up the jams and chutneys. : )
Although nothing can beat the LEGO one we bought last Xmas, these 24 advent calendars to make come mighty close.

TGIF, folks. Have a good one! ; )

I Met a Published Author...

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 11:58:00 +0000

I had a chance meeting on the weekend...

Two gal pals and I visited a nearby seaside town. Among the festivities (swimsuit shopping, eating eggplant schnitzels and riding camels in true Sex and the City fashion), we stepped into a local bookshop. There, a man politely introduced himself as an author and asked if he could talk to us briefly about his book.

Now, normally I'm not so much for people giving me unsolicited sales talks, but I was in slightly less standoffish holiday mode, plus I was intrigued by this guy being a fellow writer, so I said yes to hearing the spiel. I'm so glad I did.

His name is Dave Bell; his book, The gardener's guide to Growing Money Trees. While I'm not squarely in his target audience (being neither a keen plant rearer nor very money-minded), he had a fascinating story about how he decided to write his book.

You see, he was on a surfing trip when a powerline narrowly missed slicing through the minivan he was in and decapitating him. Cue life flashing before eyes and re-evaluating what was important in his life and what he really wanted to achieve. In the words of every movie character Keanu Reeves ever played, "Whoaaaaaaaaa...".

He decided to create a book he'd never seen before, one that looks at the big concepts in life and through beautiful photographs of nature and clever captions, gets us to gently chuckle at the nature of our existence. I'm all for books spreading positivity, so I thought it was cool.

What also impressed me about Dave was his willingness to answer the fledgling writer questions I threw at him left, write and centre (ho ho!). They pretty much came out in a stream of "how did you find a publisher - who was the publisher - how did you approach them - did you write a press release - what was your marketing plan - how did you set up your web site...". He even gave me a copy of his marketing email to businesses who might wish to purchase his book as a corporate gift. Very, very cool.

His book has been featured on TV, he's done radio interviews and he also showed us photos on his iPhone of celebrities he'd met and presented with his book at their own book signings, including Jamie Durie and Jane Fonda. He was definitely pro-active about marketing his own book, to the point where he visited local bookstores and introduced himself to strange hell-raising chicks who smelled vaguely like camel. Kudos.

Have you ever had a chance meeting (or near-miss with a powerline) that inspired you?

What Magazines Do to P*ss Me Off

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:38:00 +0000

While I'm a total mag hag and can't devour enough glossies, occasionally they get on my bad side. Here's how (warning: my swear bear rating is high-extreme today)...

1.   "Hot or Not" Galleries:
Gossip rags can't get enough of overanalysing and then cattily commenting on celebrity red carpet outfits. Lampooning a person's look, no matter how famous they are, is vicious and demeaning. Stop it.

2.   Fat Roll-ercoaster:
Declaring a starlet is fat because she gained a couple of kilos, then decrying her as anorexic in the next issue when she loses weight is so not cool. Tiresome and unimaginative.

3.   Word Abuse:
I can't stand the gross overuse of terms like "fashionista", "must-have", and my particular peeve, "eclectic". I know I'm guilty of repetition as well -- I use "love" every other sentence -- but I figure what better word to have on high rotation?

4.   Badvertising:
I get it. Mags need to make money to survive. I just wish they would occasionally take $$ from companies with better environmental, animal rights and sweat shop labour records. You know, for a refreshing change.

5.   The Yearly Body Image Issue:
While I applaud your commitment to representing women of all shapes and levels of fleshiness, it's not really a "commitment" if you dare to be different only one month of the year now, is it? How about throwing some plus-size models into your fashion stories every issue without all the fanfare and self-congratulation and see if anyone complains or even notices their hideous curves and lack of protruding collarbones? I double dare you.

6.   Steal Appeal:
I'm sorry, but an $800 skirt is only a "steal" if you're Winona Ryder and actually theft it out of Saks Fifth Avenue. Take your bullsh*t marketing spin elsewhere. It may be lovingly hand-spun by Tibetan chipmunks from the silky testicle hairs of the rare golden bullfrog, but it's STILL... JUST... A... SKIRT!!! F*ck off, I'm not buying.

Okay, enough negativity. Let's talk about those fine folks who get it right. They're my fave reads for a reason. : )

Here's why I love...

Peppermint:
Notably free from badvertising, this fashion mag features handmade, ethical finds without compromising on wow factor. It's the perfect read for wanna-be hippies who prefer the smell of Chanel No 5 to patchouli or incense (yuck!). If you haven't already, try one issue and I guarantee you'll be hooked!

Shop Til You Drop:
It's been criticised as a glorified catalogue, but Shop is fun, friendly and relatable. Forget $800 skirts, Shop will point you in the direction of variously-priced clothes and accessories, most of which your bank manager would approve. Regular column, "On the Plus Side" by Megan Moir Pardy, gives style advice from a curvy girl's perspective. Love.

Marie Claire:
Making it chic to give a sh*t about important issues like homelessness, global women's rights, war, racism and poverty, Marie Claire has weathered the highs and lows of magazine publishing industry for a reason -- its quality reportage. Mix that with ever-hot fashion that rises above petty outfit assassination and worrying about which star has lost 10 pounds and you have a winning fashion mag formula. Hooray!

Have I included your glossy gripes on the list? Which magazines have your vote for doing the right thing?

Fabulous Fridays: 2 December 2011

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 23:02:00 +0000

Before my little jaunt to the seaside, I bring you the most fabulous of this Friday...

Candace Bushnell, creator of my beloved Carrie Bradshaw, had her birthday yesterday. Wish her many happy returns!
Doing the rounds on Twitter and Facebook this week... Two Lesbians Raised a Baby. Powerful stuff.
Love it: A Brewing Mind blog -- non-daggy DIY crafts and inspiration.
I'm considering choreographing a dance to Ms Aguilera's Candyman tune. It could be very sexy-cute. Whatcha reckon?
Mr Big bought me a little pressie... the Aliens Omnibus. Yes, that's sci-fi movie + comic books, but a female protagonist totally works it back from nerdiness, right?!
The more I see politics, the more I think Yes Minister was understating its absurdity.
I'm not really down with the small-pleated skirts in fashion right now, but this one's a bit special.
I adore anything that springs from Jane Espenson's mind and fingertips, so I'm keen to give Husbands a go.
Not for the claustrophobic -- Tiny House Blog.
Here's some ideas for my bucket list and yours too. Learning graffiti and finding Nemo look like excellent goals for starters...
I don't think you're ready for this jelly. Silly, but satisfying!

A sunny farewell, sea you next time! ; )

Writing My Bucket List

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 12:43:00 +0000

It's time to try new things, decide what I want, and GO FOR IT. In short, I need a bucket list...

Ride in a hot air balloon.
Visit LEGOLAND.
Learn to play the guitar.
Invent a boardgame.
Learn French (I've already made a half-assed attempt).
Become a published author.
Go on a Sex and the City tour in New York.
Visit Europe.
Be published in Vogue.
Learn how to make cheese (dunno why, looks fun and I dig milky treats, okay?!).
Go zorbing.
Try shooting a gun at a firing range.
Be an extra in a movie (er... aim high, right?).
Write and sell a TV script.
Attend a grand slam tennis event, preferably the Australian Open or Wimbledon.
Build a Big Thing like the Big Pineapple.
Try a life drawing class (hey, I'm not a perve!).
Learn Japanese.
Try fencing.
Become an awesome breakdancer!
Learn an obscure musical instrument.
Milk a cow.
Learn archery.
Go on a helicopter ride.
Own a pinball machine.
Learn how to pick locks (I can pretend I'm Hercule Poirot or something).
~~See a psychic~~. Completed 15 January 2012 at the Pyschic Expo.

Gosh, this is a bit lame. I'd like to add heaps more items.

HELP!!! I need ideas!!!

What's on your list?

Fabulous Fridays: 25 November 2011

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 14:24:00 +0000

Fresh (or rather, worn out) from a mega-exciting dance class, I'm bringing you the skinny on what's amusing me this week...

Luckily I avoided the Dorito tan fate when I went in for my first ever spray tan on Monday. It's actually lovely and natural-looking, unlike these...
And Doritos, like all foods, always go well with an ice cold Coke. Refreshing feeling... ice cold Coke. Refreshing, Ice. Ice. Refreshing. Ice cold... Ice. : )
I'm dubious about their leg-warming properties, but these rose and lace beauties are super-adorable.
Dear Facebook, why do you keep filling my sidebar with dieting ads? Whatcha tryin' ta say? Here's my side of the story. Sincerely, Becks xx
The land of Aus is set to get its own ELLE magazine (well, again... our previous version folded 10 years ago). Hopefully it takes after the UK title rather than the US one. Yes?
Sometimes I get real, actual shivers hearing an incredible ballad, like when I heard Charlie Puth and Emily Luther's cover of Adele's "Someone Like You".
Pole dancing celebrities don't get any bigger than Jenyne Butterfly and I got taught by her tonight at my regular studio!! Here she is on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
Watching old episodes of The O.C. reacquainted me with the cruisy sound of Crowded House song "Fall at Your Feet" (one of Mr Big's favourites).
I'm thinking I take my ninjabread cutters out for a test drive with this simple gingerbread recipe. Mmmm... Christmas-y goodness. : )
Apart from Fanta, I've never really bonded with orange, but it's definitely having a moment in the beauty world. Surprisingly flattering in lipstick and nail polish.
In Year 10, I worshipped "Set You Free". Best. Song. Ever. And it definitely made me cool, right?

Later, lovelies! xx

The 2am Update

noreply@blogger.com (BECKS AND THE CITY) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 15:44:00 +0000

Why am I writing this at 2am?

Two reasons:

I've been sleeping off a killer headache all day (no, not self-inflicted from a hangover or anything -- I'm a good girl!); and
I drank a Coke to perk myself up at 4pm and therefore am wide awake now. No fairsies!

The upside of this is that I can share my recent writing-related exploits with you. Project Zine is going ahead well. A bit of back story... For those of you who haven't heard, I've recently fallen in love with independent zines, cute A5-sized booklets put together by rather cool individuals. (To see why I find them so delightful, head to the little Facebook gallery I've compiled of my girliest faves here.)

So, I'm making one myself for magazine-lovers, and plan to sell it on Etsy and zine "distros" (small DIY shops). First, I must finish it and hooray, hooray, I'm starting to see light at the end of the tunnel. It's rather slow going compiling it, but I gotta say I'm having a blast! The picture above is of a new double page in a section on making your own magazine-themed gift baskets. How could I resist recommending a Sex and the City version? You like?

All going well, I'm hoping to launch the zine in early December. I absolutely cannot wait! : )

In other news, my 12-month hiatus from my desk job at Consumer Affairs is coming to a close and it's crunch time for deciding if I'll return in 2012 or continue freelancing and office temping instead. My old manager Steve called on Tuesday and I'll call him back tomorrow. I think I know my decision, but it depends on what he says too.

That's all for now. Hope you're all having a super-exciting, fun week! xx