Dreaming of Verona

Onto greener pastures

2012-12-13T22:37:00.000+11:00

I wasn't planning on putting this out there, but I checked my analytic information the other day and noted that many of you are still coming here.
I don't know if it's because you are checking to see if I am blogging anymore, or if you are checking out past posts.

This year has been a HUGE year for me.
Not only have a made a massive move physically - it has been a mammoth emotional rollercoaster.

Throughout the turmoil I lost my blogging mojo, it became almost a chore and I didn't want that to reflect here.

So I stopped blogging.
But I missed it too much.
Something in my head was telling me that I had to let Dreaming Of Verona go, I just wasn't attached anymore. Something had to change.

So that is what I have done.
Dreaming Of Verona will stay here - but won't be updated anymore.

But, if you like what I write, and want to keep reading,
I have moved to retailtherapie.com.au

For those who have been reading this blog for the past 18 months, I thank you.
Without you, I wouldn't have gotten through this year.

Hope to see you over in my greener pastures

xoxox

The End Of No-Buy July

2012-07-31T08:00:00.000+10:00

Ahh, it is ALREADY the 31st of July.

NO idea how that happened - I think I blinked and I missed it.

I have been doing my own shop-a-holic version of Dry July called No Buy July where I don't buy anything.

I have been doing okay - no internet purchases [phew!] and only nessessities purchased

[If you saw me over at the MAC counter on Saturday, Foundation is TOTALLY a necessity]

Here are a few things I have been drooling over on my forced spending hiatus.

Things that as soon as the floodgates open, will be popped onto my credit card before you can say "Expiry Date".

June was the end of my Subscription box subscriptions, I was receiving too many beauty samples and not enough space or face to put it all.
THEN, I discovered Panty By Post.
Imagine opening your mail once a month, and receiving a beautiful pair of high quality knickers?

You would totally be let off the hook for owning a Onsie if you were rocking a pair of these babies underneath :)

You have the choice of receiving a mixture of briefs and g-strings, or one or the other.
PBP are available in x-small all the way up to xxxx-large there are panties to suit all sizes.

Best part? Sign up for 12 months, and each pair will only cost $18 - that's on par with a pair of Bonds boylegs and a whole lot sexier!

Check out PBP for more info.

Unlike the rest of the country, I am super sad that winter is 2/3 over.

It is BY FAR my favourite season, I love everything about Winter.
The dark afternoons, the cold, the iced up car windscreens, the hot coffee, the scarves, the boots, the tights and most of all - my UGG boots!

I don't break the number one fashion rule of wearing them in public. But you can guarantee as soon as the temp drops below 20 degrees, I unpack these babies and wear them around the house, through the drive through, designated driver duties, anywhere that doesn't include potentially being seen by an street fashion photographer, or worse, an ex.

Worst part about them? My uggs are knee high, so right about now, it just gets too unbearable to wear them. Sweaty feet is NOT attractive.

That is where UMZ Original comes to the rescue.

These are my kind of slippers. Over the ankle for winter, unzip them and they become slip on, slippers :) Perfect!

For just $139, I am calling these a NECESSITY for the coming months.
Check them out UMZ Online

Melbourne is NOTORIOUS for living in black during winter.

With another month before spring, these gorgeous red patent leather heels are sure to be a knockout!

And at $179 - I have a void in my wardrobe that only these babies can fill.

Check out Squire Shoes for some hot anti-winter blues.

As for No-Buy July, not quite as successful as I had hoped.

Despite not buying anything aside from the essentials, a few big purchases that had to be made [Ugh, Gym Fees, ugh, Health Insurance, ugh Tax Accountants] plus flights to attend a couple of interstate events, I still haven't managed to save anything.

So, guess you all know what THAT means.

Yep - No-Buy August!

Barkins Launch

2012-07-04T08:00:00.000+10:00

Last week I was invited to the launch of the new look Barkins QV in Melbourne.

Braving the winter cold to rub shoulders with Melbourne's most stylish and fabulous fashionista's.

The theme for the evening was "Unlock Your Style Icon"

This was reiterated through the store with key labels, key shaped door prize entry tickets and displays throughout the store showing one how to replicate famous style with Barkin's clothing.

And to sweeten the deal?

A candy table - My head screamed calories, so I avoided this, however, it was a definite winner for the guests.

They had thought of it all.

Wine, Sparkling, Soda and Water.

It's not often that I go to an event that caters for us non-drinkers.

Major props to Barkins.

A night out isn't complete without catching up with my fav fashionistas.

Katie, Me, Sarah Jane and Jess.

Perfect Office-to-Drinks wear.

Kate, Sarah Jane, Nicole, Kate and Katie.

THE Dress?

$39.99.

Yep, Barkins, you have won me over.

You certainly haven't seen the last of me.

And you know I gave my debit card a spin and picked up these new babies.

Just the pop of colour needed in the dark of winter.

[and a BARGAIN at just $49.95]

If you aren't in Melbourne, or not near the CBD, check out Barkins Online Store

No Buy July

2012-07-03T08:00:00.000+10:00

Ever since moving to Melbourne almost 6 months ago I have been on a constant "Wardrobe Update".
I need winter clothing.
New shoes for the office.

Blazers for corporate life.

Accessories appropriate for my new job.

Not to mention the costs in actually relocating, I am back in my living week-to-week cycle [or rather, fortnight to fortnight paycheck cycle]

That needs to change.

I have pinned WAY too many things that I MUST have in my apartment.

So therefore, I am doing...

Yep. That's right.

The spending ban to end all spending bans.
An entire calender month of no purchasing anything apart from the basics of living

[Food, Bills, Petrol etc]

No clothes, No makeup, No accessories, No shoes.

And most of all - NO iTUNES PURCHASES!

I am entering Day 3 and all is going well.

My best friend is the shopping cart. I add to cart. Then I close the window.

It's like shopping without the debt.

Win.Win.

It's not too late to join me.

Let me know if you embarking on No-Buy July in the comments.

Will be awesome to have some allies whilst my fingers ache from longing to click "buy" and my paypal weeps from neglect.

- If you are embarking on this journey with me, feel free to use the above image in your blog post - just be sure to link back here lovelies.
And let me know, I will pop your name in the post - Link Love all round x

Edit** If you are NOT participating - be sure to check out the current AMAZING deal Hairhouse Warehouse is offering

June Photo A Day - Round Up

2012-07-02T08:00:00.000+10:00

I finally did it.

Completed* an entire month of Chantelle's Photo A Day Challenge.

Photos after the jump in case you want to skip my month in photos x

Day One.

Morning

My daily traffic struggle - Please note, my car was parked and turned off, it was the third red light and traffic was failing to move due to an accident up ahead

Day Two.

Empty

My car is full of empty takeaway tea cups and water bottles.

Day Three.

On Your Plate

Chia seeds and Banana. Yummers.

Day Four.

Close Up

Day Five.

Sign

Day Six.

Hat

Day Seven.

Drink

Day Eight.

6 O'Clock

Day Nine.

My View

Day Ten.

Best Part Of Your Weekend

Hot bath and Peppermint Magazine. Bliss.

Day Eleven.

Door

Not my door. I was playing tour guide for my out of states friends.

This is a cell door @ Melbourne Gaol.

Day Twelve.

From A Low Angle

Day Thirteen.

Art

Day Fourteen.

Time

Day Fifteen.

Yellow

Day Sixteen.

Out And About

Yarraville is so cute and hipster.

Day Seventeen.

In Your Bag

I need to clean it out I think.

Day Eighteen.

Something We Don't Know About You

I like to think the lights out my back window are UFO's.

Yeah - I <3 X-Files and I am NOT ashamed to admit it.

Day Nineteen.

Imperfect

My tattoo.

At first I hated it, now I love it.

Family is everything, no matter how different or imperfect it is.

Day Twenty.

Favourite Photo You Have Ever Taken.

This. This photo captures a memory I never want to forget.

Day Twenty One.

Where You Slept

Between these two cuties.

My morning cuddle crew who wake up and come running for morning snuggles and cereal in bed.

Day Twenty Two.

From A High Angle

Collins Street looks so beautiful from this angle.

Day Twenty Three.

Movement

Day Twenty Four.

On Your Mind

[See Day 20.]

Day Twenty Five.

Something Cute

I miss my Oliver.

Day Twenty Six.

Where You Shop

[I didn't shop on this day - shock!]

Day Twenty Seven.

Bathroom

Day Twenty Eight.

On The Shelf

Nope, I don't work for Body Science, I am THIS addicted.

Day Twenty Nine.

Soft

Anyone else get the Soft Kitty, Warm Kitty song stuck in their head from this prompt?

Day Thirty.

Friend

This just proves that anyone can be friends.

These two love each other despite having a 50kg+ weight difference.

People should take lessons from animals.

* Okay, so there are two days without photos.

One, because it would be a double up.

Two, because I didn't do that activity, nor go anywhere near anywhere where I could complete that activity.

June Empties.

2012-07-01T22:02:00.001+10:00

June was the fastest month so far this year.

I don't know if it was because it was on 30 days, or perhaps it is that I have been so insanely busy that any month will fly as quick as June.

Just a note, July, slow down!

1 Skin Solutions Vanilla Lip Balm

LOVE LOVE LOVE this stuff.

Currently trialling the new tinted balms - they are amazing.

Review coming soon.

Maybelline The Falsies Volume Express Mascara

I already have another tube of this in my bag.

Not the greatest of mascaras as far on longevity and wear goes, but the impact on my lashes? WOW.

MAC Studio Tech

Honestly? Not worth the $.

Considering I get the same coverage from HealthyMix for half the price I won't be repurchasing.

MAC Skin Finish

Not a huge fan, repurchased the non-mineral version and love it.

Probably my HG powered.

Mary K Concealor

SO glad to be rid of this.

Not bad, but not something I would repurchase or sing praises of.

It's no Erase Paste.

Aveda Smooth Infusion Shampoo & Conditioner

I bought both of these from Oscar Oscar salon a few months back.

I had no negative reactions, but nothing overly positive either and for the money I kind of expected to be "wowed".

No repurchase here - Testing out the Nioxin range instead.

Aveda Dry Remedy Mask

Despite being made of all natural ingredients, the smell of this treatment is extremely chemically. Do not like.

I won't be repurchasing this, I currently have MUK 1 Minute Treatment on trial.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser:

I can give or take this stuff.

Sometimes, my skin responds really well to it, other times it dries it out.

I have already repurchased despite telling myself I would try something else.

2012-06-21T14:30:00.002+10:00

Sorry my lovelies.

New job + new exercise program + living like a gypsy means very little blogging from this lass.

Instead of missing me [I will be back, full swing, from next Monday! YAY!] check out this blog.

100 things to do instead of procrastinating on the internet.

I have already copied down MANY of these things to do over the weekend.

Many thanks to the gorgeous Kate from Off The Hanger for the above link recommendation.

See you in July xo

NOTD: Orly

2012-06-12T08:00:00.000+10:00

Now that Winter has truly arrived in Melbourne, it is time to embrace some hot colours to cancel out the grey skies.

The name is perfect, definitely the brightest orange polish I have.

Opaque in one coat, but used two for good measure.

Like most Orly polishes, the formula is quick drying and long lasting - I got 4 days out of this polish without chips.

I purchased this shade at Priceline for $4.99

Previous to that, I had never heard of Orange Punch, I can forsee this shade being a winner over the next couple of months.

Wordless Wednesday: Queen VB

2012-05-30T06:00:00.000+10:00

Remember Sunday's post about how The Agency had opened?

Well, late Sunday evening I placed my first order.

Guess what arrived at my front door at 9am on Tuesday morning?

Yep, my new bundle of joy.

The Queen VB - Birkin inspired tote.

It is even more beautiful that the photos show.

Get yours at The Agency Boutique today

Queen VB retails at $180

And be quick, Free Shipping is available for the first week only!

Review: Body For Women

2012-05-28T14:01:00.002+10:00

I have to be honest.

I have an addiction.

It's nothing too major - but I can't seem to make it through a day without Body For Women's Lo Carb Bites.

From the Body For Women Website:
"Body Bites were developed by some of Australia’s leading nutritionist with one major goal in mind, to provide health conscious females with the tools to make healthier eating options. The low calorie high protein Body Bites offers versatility by providing quick and easy snacks helping to control your appetite. Body Bites are created as a snack replacement with 10% RDI of the Vitamins & Minerals plus thermogenics & Lipotropics. Satisfy your hunger cravings without sacrificing your diet."

39 Calories per bite is fantastic for that 3:30 itis.

In fact, it is a well know fact in my office that we meet at this time for a refreshed cup of herbal tea, fill our water bottles and indulge in a bite or two*.
It is just the perfect amount of chocolate, and sweet, required to finish up the work day.

Now that I have introduced these into an office full of health conscious women, I need to work out a way to buy these in bulk.

Unfortunately, purchasing through Body For Women directly means I can not have them shipped to my PO Box and since I work full time it's impossible to arrange a courier delivery.

I am getting desperate to try the "On The Go" Protein Shakes but they seem to be continually out of stock online [No luck at my local supermarkets either]

The Details:

10 Pack from the Body For Women Website

Or purchase individual packs from Coles or Safeways for $3.95 each.

For more information [and a heap of helpful FREE information] check out

www.bodyforwomen.com.au

*Recommended serving size is a full bag [6 Bites] - as I do not have a sweet tooth and am on a strict calorie intake, I limit myself to two bites per day.

I first tried Body For Women Lo Carb Bites in a Gift Bag supplied at an event.
Since then, I have purchased them on my own.
This has in no way shaped my opinion of Lo Carb Bites.
For more information check out my Disclosure Policy

The Agency Boutique is OPEN!

2012-05-27T11:20:00.003+10:00

The most anticipated opening of the year happened overnight.

Yep - The Agency Boutique is open!

Hands up if you have had your eye on that statement bag your fav celeb has been toting around town but haven't been able to drop the house deposit to call one your own.

My hand is definitely up.

J & M have you covered, luxurious statement bags we love at the affordable prices we love even more.

I was lucky enough to meet "J" one half of the sisters/brains/beauty behind The Agency a few weeks back and she is just as lovely in person as she is on Twitter.

How divine is the "God Save The Queen" McQueen inspired clutch? LOVE it.

The Queen VB is top of my WANT list, closely followed by "You Feeling Me" and "Jackie O Who".

But don't take my word for it - hop onto their online boutique and check the fabulousness out for yourselves!

The Agency Boutique - www.theagencyboutique.com

Follow them on Twitter - www.twitter.com/theagencyboutiq

All images screen captured from www.theagencyboutique.com - not to be reproduced unless credited back to The Agency

Winter

2012-05-24T16:51:00.000+10:00

I am teaming up with the gorgeous Melinda of Mumma In Heels for her new weekly "Let's Write" prompt.

Last week's "Let's Write" is What Do You Love About Winter.
And yes, I know I am behind the ball on this. I am a busy lass.

Well, this is me.

There is no other season that I love more than Winter.

I don't think there is anything I dislike about Winter.

Except the constant carb/hot food craving - but this is the year I kick that and kick up the exercise and calorie counting to make sure I don't miss out or blow out.

First on my LOVE List? Scarves.

I have way too many to admit.

In fact, I may even keep them in my car so my addiction is not so obvious to those I live with.

Yep - bordering on an obsession.

This gorgeous Country Road Cable Knit Scarf even has a matching beanie. ADORBS!

Onsies.

I have to admit here that I do not own a onsie.

I want to.

I even went to purchase one - and my co-shopper laughed so hard that I hung my head in shame and left.

But I will be back because I NEED a Peter Alexander Onsie in my Peter Alexander Collection.

Even though the adult sized Vegemite one is no longer available, there is plenty of cuteness available online or instore.

[If you feel like an awesome, superstar reader and want to send me a pair - I'd need a large :P ]

Tea.

Currently loving Oolong tea and it makes the perfect accompaniment to the subject of tomorrow's blog post [Keep an eye on that]

But Green and Peppermint are my all time favourites.

I gave up Coffee a number of weeks ago and I am loving the extra energy.

Uggs.

These uggs were purchased for me as a gift.

I only wear them INSIDE the house - though have made a sneaky DVD return and chocolate run late one night.

Slanket.

These things are the BEST.

Seriously.

I can shamed out of a onsie but not my slanket.

I have the zebra print [and also a plain red one shhh]

So cosy and warm - and Liz Lemon has one, which makes it cool enough for me.

Introducing; My New Hair Pt2

2012-05-24T16:38:00.001+10:00

Remember back in March when I tried out Oscar Oscar Salons and chopped off my hair?

Remember when I thought THAT was a massive change?

Well, hold onto your hats ladies [and any gentlemen reading] I have shaken it up and spun it around and had ANOTHER huge hair transformation.

The Before.

Click through to Hairhouse Warehouse 's page to check out the transformation!

And I will be adding a full post about it in the coming days.

Face Of Australia Lip Crayons

2012-05-17T17:01:00.000+10:00

Face Of Australia are definitely top ranking in my Favorite Brand list.
They are innovative and continue to lead the pack with superior quality for very reasonable prices.

I have heard whispers of a new lip product range for the past couple of weeks and have been eagerly anticipating their release.

So imagine my surprise when last week I won a Twitter competition to receive the Lip Crayon pack ahead of their June 2012 release.

It was even more surprising to find them delivered the very next working day.
Go Face Of Australia!

The pack consists of three shades
Cupcake
Macaron
Sundae

All three shades smell delicious - a subtle vanilla fragrance that is neither chemical or overbearing.

How cute is the packaging?

The formula is beautiful.
Easily glides on lips and provides the perfect light tint cover
Perfectly glossy without stickiness
And the moisturising lasts longer than the colour.
I played around with these the night I got them, the following morning my lips still felt soft and amazing.

Cupcake - Macaron - Sundae

The shades themselves appear to apply transparent
However the shade develops quickly on contact and lasts about 3 hours.
Less if you are eating or drinking.

I have included arm swatches only as these shades will appear differently on everyone depending on natural shade of their lips.

On first impressions thought I would love Macaron the most, and probably not use Sundae at all.
But imagine my surprise when all three work with my skin tone and not against like other shades.
These lip crayons add the perfect "oomph" to lips whilst keeping them luscious and moisturised.

The Details:

Face Of Australia Lip Crayons

RRP $14.95

Available from June 2012 for a limited time!

Check out Face Of Australia for stockist information.

As explained above, I won these in a Twitter competition, I am under no obligation to write about these. Please see my Disclosure Policy for more information.

Misty's Diner; American Style Food in Melbourne

2012-05-08T08:00:00.000+10:00

Last week I had some friends from Newcastle down in Melbourne on holiday.

They were celebrating their 6th (SIX!!) year anniversary, and luckily for me, they made time to hang out while they were here.

My friend C is awesome.

We have been friends since I first moved to Newcastle from Sydney

We both have so much in common, and are obsessed with American TV shows and culture.

Misty's Diner - NJ & C have been cropped out to protect their identities.

I had heard about Misty's Diner many months ago - but I didn't know of anyone who I thought suited to eat at such an establishment. When I heard C was in town I knew it was perfect for us.

Dragging her (very eager) partner NJ along for the ride we booked in last Thursday night for what was sure to be the sugar and carb overload of the century.

Yes. So Much Yes.

Dr Pepper is my favourite "Soda" of all time.

Lucky for me, my local Coles sells it, so I went with the Cherry Dr Pepper which is approximately 1000 times more delicious than the regular.

I also discovered a new fav [once a year] food.

Jalepeno Poppers - Jalepenos, hollowed out, filled with cheese then breaded and fried.

Oh My God.

Party in your mouth

[and no, not spicy - unfortunately]

The Vegie "Carb Coma"

This is where your diet goes to die.

Potato Mashies, Veggie Bites, Cheese Sticks, Chilli Fries and Fried Mushrooms.

Misty's Sliders.

Yeah, I ditched my vegetarianism for one of these*.

Served with pickles on the side, baby burgers with meat, cheese and onions.

Fried Mushrooms.

SO GOOD!

I wish I didn't discover them when I was already full.

Was a little apprehensive at first because, whilst I love mushroom, I don't usually eat them whole.

Okay.

I have a confession.

The Deep Fried Twinkie was my main reason for wanting to go to Misty's Diner.

It was pretty good.

Way too sweet for me, but all you sweet tooth's out there will LOVE this.

And something I didn't expect.

Deep Fried Oreo.

This was like a sugar party in your mouth.

So good, but felt so bad at the same time.

My diet certainly went out the window with this one!

Everything about this place was AMAZING!

The 50's style diner made me feel I had just set foot on the Grease stage.

In fact, the tiny Jukeboxes on each booth even have "You're The One That I Want" to choose from.

Our waiters were so friendly, and fun.

Found we had developed a rapport with ours within the first 5 minutes of being seated.

Props to Ralphie and Cary G [I believe his real name is Todd]

We even got to meet the famous Misty as we were leaving, she's gorgeous.

Just don't let her see you use cutlery, apparently that is against the rules :D

I would like to know though, if all their accents are real?

The Deets:

Misty's Diner is open 7 days

Located at 103- 105 High Street, Prahran

[Near the Chapel Street intersection]

Check out Misty's Diner for more info

And be sure to follow them on Twitter

* I don't recommend diving into red meat after months of nothing. I felt incredibly ill later that evening and all the next day.

New Purchase: Revival Poodle Print Dress

2012-05-02T11:59:00.001+10:00

Last week I purchased this ADORABLE Poodle Print dress from Revival.

Only problem is, what do I wear it with?

And am I too old to be wearing Poodle print anything?

What I Wore

2012-04-27T08:00:00.000+10:00

I've been kind of lacking in the "Fashion" side of blogging lately,

Combining that with the new discovery of "clipping" on Polyvore - I have decided to share an outfit I wore this week.

For those [like me] who didn't know, you can use the "Clipper" tool to save items from other websites onto your Polyvore account, meaning you can share items you actually own, rather than those just looking similar.

I wore this outfit to work - though, I would also wear it to a lunch date now the weather has cooled down in Melbourne.

The boots and scarf are from Polyvore as I was unable to locate either of my items online, they are pretty close though.

P.S I LOVE Bond's tees - I think I have 3 just in white. Not to mention the black, grey and light pink versions I own. So versatile and comfortable.

I may also have these Lee Riders in other colours… shhh!

Do you have multiples of items of the same piece of clothing?

Review; Soap & Glory - Hand Food

2012-04-26T22:17:00.000+10:00

I have the hands of an overweight 60 year old man.

Seriously.

I have chubby sausage fingers, wrinkly knuckles and uneven skin tone.

Not to mention the dry, scaly skin that refuses to disappear.

It's a genetic thing, my mother has ugly hands as well.

Most of my childhood memories of my mother is her applying her trusty lanolin cream to her hands. I learnt early on that to make the most of the unlucky genetics I had to take care of my hands.

Introducing… The most astonishing hand cream ever!

Yes. Really.

Since I was 11 years old I have slathered on a ridiculous amount of hand creams.

With a differing variety of pricing, ingredients and promises.

I didn't think anything could help me, I was a lost cause.

But...

Soap and Glory Hand Food is amazing.

My hands are left feeling moisturised for hours, without the sticky residue left by some.

It is non greasy, and with ingredients such as Shea Butter, Macadamia Oil and Marshmallow it smells delicious too

I use this multiple times a day.

As you can see by the photos, this tube is just about empty.

It's my second tube in as many months.

My skin has been very dry since moving to cooler weather and I usually suffer with cracked skin in these conditions.

Since using Hand Food regularly, my skin has maintained it's moisture and overall my hands are so much softer.

I am considering trying it out on my feet.

Hand Food is a thickish cream, but it absorbs quickly and leaves no sticky residue.

Add Soap & Glory; Hand Food to your Winter Must-Haves.

The Details

Soap & Glory - Hand Food

RRP $11.95

Purchased in-store at Kit Cosmetics

Karpati Dito; Midnight Romance

2012-04-24T08:00:00.000+10:00

If you read March Edition; Lust Have It you will have seen that I was very excited to try out the Karpati Dito Nail Lacquer I received.

Karpati was a brand I had not heard of before.

But, being free from Toluene, Formaldehyde and Dibutyl Phtalate was a huge tick from me.

The bottle is featured in the New York Museum of Modern Art "Design Collection".

It fits between fingers, like a ring, to hold the bottle steady for easier application.

I received one of the 8 available shades of Shimmer Lacquers, named Midnight Romance. A deep, shimmering purple that looks almost blue in some lights.

There are 13 classic colours plus 7 refract shades.

The polish formula is magic, fast drying, opaque in two coats and hard wearing.

My biggest problem was the bottle.

The idea is genius, though slightly gimicky.

I found it incredibly difficult to create neat, straight lines whilst trying not to tip the contents everywhere.

Karpati Dito Nail Lacquers RRP at $19.95 for 8mL bottles.

I received this lacquer as part of a Lust Have It subscription.

If you have purchased Karpati Dito Lacquers online or in-store , please share your recommendations.

April Edition; Lust Have It

2012-04-23T08:00:00.000+10:00

Today I received my much anticipated second delivery of my Lust Have It subscription.

As some of you will already know, Lust Have It and Glossybox have merged, April is the last month of separate boxes, as of May, Glossybox subscribers will receive a Lust Have It box instead. For more information, hit up the Lust Have It page.

Going to hide the contents of this month's Lust Have It box after the jump.

Firstly, Lust Have It was not delivered in a box this month.

Instead, contents are stored in a small zip up, waterproof bag.

Whilst I LOVE the boxes, I do complain about the amount of boxes littering my wardrobe and shelves so the bags are a good idea.

Better for the environment, although if Lust Have It continue to use bags, I hope they change the colour/shape/size [Leopard print anyone?]

Contents of this month's "bag" are:

1. I Nuovi Glitterati

2. emerginC Kombucha Cleanser

emerginC Phytocell Detox Mask

emergenC Phytocell Moisturiser

3. De Lorenzo Elements Ocean Mist Sea Salt Styling Spray

4. True Solutions All Day Tined Moisturising Cream SPF 30+

5. Spa Fresh Blends Romantic Discovery

Whilst I have heard of EmerginC before, I have yet to use any of their products.

Looking forward to testing out the Cleanser, Mask and Moisturiser once my skin has adjusted to Melbourne weather/water/etc.

De Lorenzo is up there among my fav haircare brands - I have used this Styling Spray before, it's the perfect summer/beach bag staple - I will be keeping it for when the warmer weather rolls around.

I've not heard of True Solutions before, pretty keen to try out the Tinted Moisturiser. Will let you know how it goes.

Spa Fresh Blends is another new brand for me, but the name is alluring.

I Nuovi Glitteratti.

The only thing I won't use in this months subscription.

Not a glitter gal - may end up adding to a manicure for a boost of bling

What did you think of this month's sub?

Are you subscribed to Lust Have It or Glossybox? What did you think of the news of the merge?

The Nail Chronicles - Part Two

2012-04-22T08:00:00.000+10:00

Remember when I removed my acrylics?

Well, that was six weeks ago and whilst my nails still aren't in amazing condition, they are a thousand times better than they were back in March.

The three products making this journey so much more tolerable.

Cuticle Oil. Nail Treatment. Hand Cream*

Whilst I am not the biggest Essie polish fan, this cuticle oil is amazing.

It smells divine, it is seriously moisturising and it's easy to apply.

I apply this at least 8 times a day, not even kidding! It's like the never ending bottle.

Wether you have had acrylics or not, your nails will definitely benefit from this Moisture Plus nail treatment from Nicole by OPI.

I apply it daily to natural nails, or if I am painting them, I use this as a base coat.

My nails are no longer peeling or splitting - and when I am wearing this they are shiny and protected and I can feel their strength increasing.

These are my nails 6 weeks post-acrylic removal with 1 coat of Moisture Plus and two coats of OPI Bubble Bath.

I have kept them short to try and strengthen them.

Short, Shiny and gaining strength.

Perhaps there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

The Details:

Essie - Apricot Cuticle Oil

RRP $18.95

Purchased in-store at Myer

Nicole by OPI - Moisture Plus

RRP $14.95

Purchased in-store at Hairhouse Warehouse

Soap & Glory - Hand Food

RRP $11.95

Purchased in-store at Kit Cosmetics

* Keep an eye out later on this week for an in-depth review on Soap & Glory - Hand Food

Review: Susie Burrell App

2012-04-15T21:13:00.000+10:00

You have all read about my ongoing [very bumpy] journey to goal weight, and part of that process has involved researching best diets, looking for new and best technology to keep me on track and give me a boost, and listening to those in the know.

My twitter feed was a content barrage of information, some good, some bad, and some very very weird. I started following Susie Burrell AGES ago - a friendly tweeter who, despite being incredibly busy, answers question, gives advice and motivates the masses.

I can honestly tell you that I have never opened the App Store as fast as I did when I heard Susie Burrell had released an app.

I wasn't sure what to expect, I thought maybe it would be her website in App form [Which BTW app developers - is NOT an app, it's a bookmark]

The app opens into an introduction - 3 small paragraphs.

That is it, no long winded autobiography, no name dropping, just the facts.

The "Lose Weight Fast" section is my favourite, input your desired calorie plan, and the work is done for you. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Snacks all sorted for you.

The only thing not done is the shopping.

[Perhaps a deal with Woolworths for your next update? - purchase ingredients from the app?]

Don't want a meal plan? No worries.

The recipes section will have you absolutely salivating over your iPhone.

Low Calorie Pumpkin Soup? YUM!

And here is a hint, It is SO EASY! Two ingredients. Yep.

And the negatives?

Lack of choices, There is no way to edit according to dietary requirements (like Lactose Intolerance) or dietary choices (Like being a vegetarian).

But, for a free app, I'm not too concerned.

I would definitely pay for app that allowed customisable options, especially from a dietician I admire such as Susie Burrell.

As for my weightless journey? No biggest loser success stories here, the past month has been an incredible roller coaster of emotions, none of which I will be discussing here, which led me to no exercise and a whole heap of non-eating followed by severe binges and back.

Back on the wagon again, eating correctly, and exercising right.

Doing a 5kg challenge with my BFF - 5kgs by 21st May.

Easy.

Follow Susie on Twitter, and make sure you download this app - Free from the App Store.

March Edition; Lust Have It

2012-03-13T09:04:00.000+11:00

I finally jumped on the bandwagon.

Despite hearing negative reviews of products inside subscription boxes, I decided to sign up to Lust Have It.

Just 4 days after signing up, I had my first sub in my PO Box.

I was pretty excited [As was MasterE which you can see in the outake photos I posted at the end]

I've heard people complain about the "boring" packaging.

You know what, I like it.
It is simple, effective, practical and environmentally friendly.

Whilst I never put breaks in my posts for the RSS Readers, I have, just to avoid spoiling it for others who have yet to recieve their Lust Have It Box this month.

Please read on for the unveiling [and some blurry images of chubby grabby baby hands]

First impression on opening the box?
OMFG there is MIRENESSE in there!!!

[I kinda LOVE Mirenesse]

Then, once I had calmed down a bit, I managed to look at the OTHER items...

Shredded orange paper.
Autumn-y AND recyclable.
Kudos to Lust Have It.

1. Davroe Moisture Senses Argan Oil - 50mL $23.95

2. Karpati DITO Nail Lacquer 8mL $19.95

3. 1Skin Solutions lip balm - Vanilla 5g $9.90

4. Replenishing Moisture Cream from Kosmea 50mL $49.95

5. Pearl Crush Creaseless Shadow from Mirenesse $29.95

Information from Lust Have It

Total of $133.70 - FOR $14.95??

PLUS.

There is also a voucher to redeem a Mirenesse Tight Liner on Facebook

[Which is all kinds of perfect because I am STILL using the one got it in September. Ew]

For my first Subscription Box I am very pleasantly surprised.
I love it!
Out of the 5 products, I have only tried one product

I'll try all these out and let you know how they go and if they are worth purchasing individually.

I think I am most excited to try the Karpati DITO Nail Lacquer
If it is good enough to be featured IN the MOMA in New York it's good enough to be on my nails

Lust Have It is a monthly subscription box.

It costs $14.95/month and can be cancelled at any time.

...and the photos I thought were too cute to not post.

I WAS going to wait for him to go to bed to photograph and open.
MasterE had other plans.
Caught him JUST in time.

Chubby Grabby Baby hands...
No, thats MINE!

P.S Keep an eye out - some very exciting news for my lovely readers coming VERY soon

Crossing to the Nude side

2012-03-08T08:00:00.001+11:00

If you haven't already bought the Face of Australia Lip Quench in Lychee Crush than your power against peer pressure is ASTOUNDING!

Up until this point I have seen the rave reviews, the gorgeous Instagram shots, and the many, many tweets praising the goddess Lychee Crush, BUT have held back and not purchased.

Until last weekend.

Yep, you heard it, I have crossed over to the Nude side and I am absolutely, head over heels, crazy in love!

I am no newbie to FOA Lip Quench Lipsticks.

Power Surge is my most favourite shade of all time and Silver Rose is my Go-To, perfect for all occassions colour.

I have naturally dry lips so I need to constantly smoother them in goodness to avoid becoming Miss Flakey Flakerson.

Lipsticks only add to that dryness.

Not the Lip Quench Range.

They leave my lips feeling hydrated and moisturised thanks to the Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E & Shea Butter

Not to mention the SPF 30+ broad spectrum protection.

Don't just take my word for it.

Here are three of my fav bloggers RAVING about their experience with Lychee Crush

Rosemary from Lashes & Lattes who, I think, was the original member of this bandwagon.

Michaela from Lather, Rinse, Repeat for the best swatch ever!

Tegan from Tegania's Thoughts who posted the awesomeness of this shade whilst on holidays! [Now THAT is dedication]

Face of Australia Lip Quench range includes 13 shades.

RRP at $9.45 - so why not buy the whole range?

Available from KMart, Priceline, Selected Pharmacies and online at Fashion Addict

I have my heart set on making Malibu Barbie work for me.

The Nail Chronicles

2012-03-07T08:00:00.003+11:00

I have had acrylic nails for the past 12 years or so.

Had little breaks here and there but have had them on for 90% of that time.

I've been pretty open about the fact that I LOVE my acrylics.

I may be one of the few people left that do.

BUT

I have an announcement.

The nails are GONE!

Above you can see how badly I needed my nails to be done.

Baring in mind I decided to chronicle this partway through removal so they look worse here than they did.

Also note the remnants of glitter polish I was using to cover the growth

My ring nail shows how much growth I had, about 5 weeks after my last infills.

Yuck.

I had seen a few tutorials for removal of shellac so decided to take the same approach with acrylic removal.

I first buffed off the gel layer.

Applied cotton pads soaked in Acetone Nail Polish Remover and wrapped finger & pad in foil.

At this point I made a cup of tea and settled in for some Homeland...

I lasted about twenty minutes, which was not enough time to shift the acrylic.

I should of used pure acetone for a quicker effect.

I buffed the remainder of the acrylic until it was quite thin, then used an orange stick to peel off the acrylic. That hurt like nothing else and I DO NOT RECOMMEND doing that.

Not only did it hurt, but it also caused a lot of damage to the underlying nail.

I filed the very jagged tips with a glass file, and lightly buffed the nail as they were very damaged and peeling.

The above photo is after the file, buff and two coats of Sally Hansen Miracle Cure.

I have been applying Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil like a maniac ever since.

No strengthens or hardeners over here. Many contain formaldehyde and I took off my artificial nails to reduce my chemical exposure.

This is after 2 coats of OPI Bubblegum.Because I ripped off the acrylic layer, I damaged the cuticles around my nailsApplication is messy, but I dare not place any nail polish remover around them for fear of the pain!
I plan on updating my nail recovery, as it's very unlikely I will be up to swatching for the next week or so.I don't plan on getting my acrylics back anytime soon.Depending on how long it takes for my hands to not hurt every time I do anything.
Hot water is the worst!
Have you DIY'ed your acrylic removal?Have you had them professionally removed?What steps did you take to speed up recovery?

Do you know any products that will make them stop hurting???