TLQ

CHRISTMAS WRAPPING IDEAS

2015-12-22T11:27:00.003+11:00

There are 3 more sleeps until Christmas and if you're like me, you might still be behind on shopping and wrapping your presents. Peter and I usually make our presents every year to give to our friends and family and it really helps to also plan the way I would like to wrap everything to perfectly display our heart-work gifts with just an extra touch of personalisation. If you're struggling to figure out ways to wrap your presents this year and want to add that creative flow to your wrapping to make up for the years of ordinary wrapping you've done, I've compiled some things that have inspired me this Christmas. You'll notice that I tend to lean towards kraft paper packaging, but it's just the most versatile.

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ROLLIN' WITH THE HOMIES

2015-11-24T13:51:00.000+11:00

Although I don't really have any homies to roll with and Peter is still waiting for a pair of derby skates to arrive in the mail, I am in love love love with my new Moxi lolly skates which is a late birthday present that I probably won't stop using. I know roller skates are for outside activities but because I'm such a newbie, I would not have been able to take my photos with the fear of hurting myself while trying or hurting my camera as well. I've been wanting to relearn how to skate for over a year and I really wanted to learn with Peter. Skating was something I enjoyed doing as a child and I remember it coming to me quite naturally. Now however, it seems I have lost that ability to skate and am very much determined to get myself rolling for fun this summer. They aren't the cheapest skates on the market but they sure are the prettiest and my heart has been set on them since last Spring. One thing I'd like to mention is that I bought it in pink for a reason. If you didn't know, I am the furthest of pink loving as any of my friends. Don't get me wrong, pastels are super pretty and one of my closest friends will choose everything in pink if given the option. These skates come in lavender, pink, light blue and a dark pinky colour -fuchsia maybe? It was hard to choose from the beginning but I've had over a year to decide and I chose pink because although it's not a classic colour, I felt it really connected with feminine skating and if white wasn't the only recreational colour in the 70s, then I feel like the next go-to would be pink.

I'm just so happy, super stoked and extremely eager to get better at skating. I was so keen, I made myself skate straps which were really easy to sew together and some boot covers so that if I were to scuff them up during my learning period, the pretty suede won't be compromised with as yet. But I didn't feature them because they look slightly hideous with some scuff marks already from my first fall yesterday. I landed really hard but luckily I was wearing my wrist guards or I'm sure I would have broken something. Now I know never to leave the house without pads on my knees and guards on my wrists to minimize the amount of pain I know I'll be receiving within the next following days.

Glassons top//Dotti shorts//Dangerfield socks//Moxi skates//DIY skate strap

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY AND I'LL CARVE IF I WANT TO

2015-11-02T14:45:00.003+11:00

Well, I suppose it's not longer my birthday as it has been 2 days since Halloween and naturally, I did something a little halloweeny before I proceeding to enjoy the evening, mini-celebrating the day of my birthing. I felt a little sad knowing that I wouldn't be at home to greet the little witches, ghouls and zombies that came to trick-or-treat. The only time of the year where peculiar creatures come lurking during dusk and no one raises an alarm. It does seem strange how popular Halloween has become in Australia since it's not a part of our culture, and although I don't like to dress to spook but rather just dress up, I have greatly welcomed its tradition to carve rather sad looking pumpkins for fun. The carving tools I used I actually bought from Lombard for my birthday party last year. These are great tools for carving pumpkins and taking the seeds out. It's less dangerous than using a knife which I used the first time big pumpkins were sold for carving at Coles. The tools also make carving a whole lot quicker and give you more precision with detail for those who care for such things. I on the other hand don't know how to design anything if I tried. I like my birthday and I like having a birthday that lands on an eventful time of the year.

Old NastyGal dress//Bras N Things lace mask (from a play set)//YRU Swan platforms//Lovisa earrings

LETTERS FROM HOBART

2015-10-26T10:44:00.001+11:00

Hobart is about a two and a half hour drive from Launceston so the early wake up call was a given to be at the Cadbury factory by the time it opened. This was supposed to leave us enough time to explore Hobart a little bit off the list of things to do. The docks at Hobart remind me of the esplanade in Williamstown with the main road lined with restaurants and cafes up and down the street minus the expensive motorbikes and fancy vintage cars. The weather entertained us with its similar temperament to that of Melbourne's as we found ourselves repeating the removal of our jackets and putting them back on when the sun hid behind the clouds. There were a few places that I did want to visit whilst we were there for the day but as expected, places only open until 5pm and places like the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, Port Arhtur and the Salamanca Market had either admission prices, were too far of a travel that took up time or we weren't there on the right day to have visited, but that's alright. We had a gander at the Tasmanian Museum and mind you, Tasmania seems to have plenty of museums and galleries to visit and admire. We also walked along some town centre to find bathers for the pool facility at the resort and shortly after, we followed the path back and made a pit stop to buy fresh seafood which my parents wanted to bring to our chalet and cook in celebration of their 26th wedding anniversary. The rest of the day was spent sight seeing on another two and a half drive back to Launceston where I took a nap and continued to read.

I regretfully edited my photos on my iPad as I wanted to travel as light as I could so the photos are heavily compressed and I'm also plainly disappointed at the lack of photos I took today. But there's always tomorrow and I'm excited at what's on our itinerary so there should be some opportunities that will come up.

LETTERS FROM LAUNCESTON

2015-10-26T10:40:00.001+11:00

I'm in Tasmania for the weekend! I've never really thought about flying over to Tassie and honestly, I don't know much about this place but I'm sort of glad I tagged along with parents for their 26th anniversary. There are so many little towns and great fields of green and little wooly sheep, cows and ducks. Driving along the main roads really make me dream a little. On our first day, we've been able to tick off a few things off my list of places to visit and eat and some. We had to wander around the city town before we could check into our accomodation so there were a few things I was able to buy before we headed off. I'm surprised though. When I have to pack to go to places, I'm always forgetting the important things that I'll need like toiletries, shoes or emergency warm clothes. I will happily say though, that I'm impressed I only forgot one thing which was my camera charger however, it was convenient of us to be near an electronic store so that I could purchase a USB cable for it. Now I'm prepared for anything for our short stay. I can't wait for the drive to Hobart tomorrow because thinking about Cadbury is making me want chocolate.

THIS CITY - MY CITY

2015-10-20T00:37:00.000+11:00

Today it seems I find myself figuring out that I have a lot of catching up to do and start fulfilling my needs to update my blog more often. I'm officially on a uni break once more and have yet to decide if I shall continue third trimester or wait until March next year to continue my course. Until then, I like having more time to do what I can. I was all around Melbourne today with my dad and his niece from his brother's wife's side of the family because we are showing her around the city with the little time that she has here. St. Kilda and the general CBD were the destinations with cafe's and galleries for pit stops during our journey.

I don't find urban landscape series to be quite appealing but there is something about Melbourne that does make you curious. It sure isn't the greatest city in the world but there's a sense of familiarity with every corner, building and laneway that really depicts what Melbourne is truly about. Without a second glance, anyone from here - city strollers, business people, students and passers-by can recognise a street lamp, busker, florist, bridge or structure in a picture without linking it to a certain iconic district. It's a familiarity that we are all accustomed to whether we like this city or not that reminds us where and what home really is.

FilmNeverDie Cafe

2015-09-29T08:17:00.002+10:00

I'm not a coffee person but I can surely appreciate the art of it and if there's one thing Melbourne is known for, quality coffee would be high up on the list. The CBD is filled with cafes at every corner competing to be the best of the best. I was at FilmNeverDie Cafe when I really should have been completing assignments but spending time somewhere that has been built up upon a community of not only coffee lovers but photography enthusiasts and hobbyists was so much more appealing. Gary started FilmNeverDie as a small shop in the back of his garage, alluring different photographers and newbies to a small but varied world of film photography with a wide range of 35mm, medium and large format cameras. Since then, he's opened up his own cafe on Bourke street as a collaboration with Magnet gallery (formally Photonet) and Hunter Studio as a space for all sorts of creatives.

Magnet Gallery (next door) is currently holding an exhibition with Michael Coyne's series of Yi people, China. The trio blend well together, creating a very chill and welcoming atmosphere that allows for the flow of creativity and visual consumption of inspiration. To grasp its vibe is to be there will coffee or a good hot chocolate you can pay for as you feel. Peter is one of the baristas and I'm sure you wouldn't leave without satisfaction.

THE STAR AND LIGHT OF DAY

2015-09-13T22:38:00.001+10:00

It seems like the weather is all anyone can talk about since we are transitioning with Spring vibes and I have to say, it felt lovely to be out in the sun with the weekend exceeding the 20s. Hello warmth, it's been a while.

I haven't been able to wear a summery outfit in months and spring has only impressed me with clear skies and a weekend warm enough to wear just a dress. I almost felt like leaving my cardigan off for the rest of my time at Pipemakers because the sun kept beaming in every direction. It was so warm that at one point, I felt like taking my Swan Platforms off which was a delight because the grass was cool and felt so soft under my toes. Although I still do enjoy my new platforms but I just couldn't resist prancing with them on and off my feet. Today really was a feel-good day and now I have a feeling that summer might just be a great one with more adventures. I greatly look forward to the nearing uni break plans that involve plenty of drives away from here.

Dress I made myself//Cocolatte cardigan//Dangerfield straw heart bag//YRU swan platforms via Dollskill//American Apparel bow clip

REVIEW: JUJU MENSTRUAL CUP (WARNING - GRAPHICALLY WRITTEN FOR GIRLS ONLY)

2015-09-04T10:34:00.003+10:00

It's not often you come across a review like this, or at least not on my blog. Periods suck and it seems like an unfortunate taboo that women have to live with which is a real shame as it is only a normal occurrence that usually happens every month for most girls. Sure, there are plenty of embarrassing stories we can share but in the end, they're just slip ups during the monthly pain we all have to endure. In this review, I'll be talking about what the benefits of this cup are and how I feel after I have used them. I'll also give you a run down on how they work so yes, keep reading if you want to know how it works or if you're just interested in the idea. Otherwise, this post might not be for you, but in any case, enjoy reading about my experience!

Now that we've gotten that out of the way, let's get to the nitty gritty bits of these vastly popular menstrual cups. I chose the Juju menstrual cup because it's an Australian product made in our very own country. And it is also the only one you can buy off the shelves without having to order them online. These retail for $55 and I believe there are only two places in Victoria that you can get them from so I was lucky to live close enough to one of the places or I'd have waited a couple of days for it to ship to me and I'm not that patient kind person.

Menstrual cups are meant to be reusable; meaning you'd only really need to purchase one of them but of course, no one is stopping you from buying more. But they are pricey just as they are. That being said, because they're reusable, you would also no longer need to be constantly purchasing pads and tampons for at least 5 years so if you're usually buying let's say $10 worth of products every month, you'd be spending $600 throughout those 5 years and with the purchase of a menstrual cup you'd have saved yourself $645. Although, this isn't really a selling point for me as we've just learned that it comes with naturally being a woman and we don't think much of buying things for ourselves each month. Menstrual cups should only really be made out of medical-grade silicone and not latex. This means that they should all be hygienic and easy to clean (just rewording what it says on my Juju box). The whole point of these cups is that they are safe, hygienic and most importantly, they are eco-friendly as you would no longer be needing to dispose any used tampons and pads. That was it's selling point for me because when I thought about it, I thought about how many menstrual products I use in one cycle and then I think about how many products other women just in my state alone use and really, that's super gross when you come to think about it. Not only that, imagine how big that pile gets when you add an extra 11 more cycles and perhaps add the rest of your country. That's probably the biggest, most foul and smelliest thing to imagine. But enough of that. If more women were inspired to use menstrual cups, that little imagery I just created for you would be much smaller and definitely better for our biodiversity.

Using menstrual cups from my experience is not easy, but neither was using a tampon for the first, second or third time. So just like tampons, practice sure makes perfect. Maybe. But with cups, once they're in, you can no longer feel them as they are almost malleable because they shape themselves to fit your vaginal walls. Just like most products, your cups should include an instruction leaflet about the product and the brand and also how you insert your cup. For me, I've been using a U-shape fold to insert it. Inserting it is no problem, I've only really inserted it in the shower so things are slightly lubricated and there are many ways first-timers can try to put it in there. But for some of us who get surprises when were out, there are also ways you can insert your cup comfortably. Again, refer to your leaflet. Once it's in there, you also have to check that our cup has created a suction inside your vagina so when you tug on the little spine or tail of the cup, it won't want to slip out anytime soon. This is the hardest part for me as I think using the Juju mentrual cup means you'll need to often slip your fingers into your vagina along the sides of the cup to make sure you're really sealed up. That's terrifying to read about I know, but we do a similar thing with tampons. You have to ensure you've created a suction so that your cup doesn't come out, but also so that your cup catches all your blood without seeping out and staining your undies. For my first 3 days of using the cup, I wore a panty liner in case this did happen since I've never used a cup before. You shouldn't need panty liners but I'm glad I did because it did seep throughout my first days. And I didn't know why. By my third day, I think I got better with figuring how and where the cup should sit as I was no longer leaking things onto my undies and for the rest of my period, I didn't have a reoccurring problem. That being said, I don't know what it was that I did to stop that from happening so that was just pure luck that I managed not to make a mess.

Different brands can provide you with different colours and sizes. Most have standard sizes but they can come in bigger and smaller cups depending on how your body works. They say it depends on age but I've read that it really depends on your body type or whether you have given birth or not. There might also be some of you especially those who have heavy periods that are probably wondering how much a menstrual cup can hold. Now, I'm not entirely sure because everyone is different. My heaviest days are at the start of my period and I was concerned that I wouldn't know unless I took it out. On my first day, I tried taking it out in public toilets as I was out and wasn't able to do this at home. I had intimate wipes with me so I just dip the blood into the toilet bowl and clean it with my wipes before inserting it back without having to leave my cubicle. I thought I'd have bled more than I saw when I took it out. As my pad would have been very heavy if I had been wearing one. I'd had my cup in for 5 hours at this stage and the cup wasn't even near the line towards the brim. It was filled about half way. Our pads have chemicals in them that react to our periods which add weight and seem full to us making us believe that our periods are that heavy. They also have a dried pool of fragrances which is why we also think our periods stink. With the menstrual cup, I couldn't smell a thing. You're supposedly able to keep it in there for no more than 10 hours and I tried this theory on my third day and there was no scent. Think about it, if there's anything you'd be smelling it should only be blood. People bleed and it's not gross and neither does it smell. Your period is merely blood and blood clots so it should only really smell like, well, blood which is nothing.

After using the Juju menstrual cup for 6 days, I feel like I'm still in no position to recommend this product. I've only tried it for one cycle so I think if I were to try it a couple more times I'd have a better opinion about it. I like the purpose of menstrual cups and I mean, if I were to perfect the insertion of my cup, it would be a no brainer like a tampon and I'd definitely ditch the smelly disposals. Otherwise, I do suggest girls to try it at least once because you'll never know if you like it until you try it. In the beginning, I had strong opinions about not using cups because the thought was gross and unnecessary. But really giving the product a go makes me think otherwise. I will say this, if you're contemplating on buying one, do what I did and read up about them. Read some reviews and watch YouTube videos as well. These really do help with figuring out which menstrual cup you should get and some may even answer questions you have because I haven't mentioned what you're after. But if you do have questions, ask down below and I will get back to you on it as soon as I can. Thank you for reading and good luck with your decision!

SPRING CLEANER

2015-09-01T19:28:00.003+10:00

I don't think I've ever introduced the first day of a month or of a season on this blog before and yet, I'm not sure why. I've been looking forward to warmer weather which is so unlike myself and I feel very much surprised by admitting so.

This year, Victoria has been on point with the first day of each season with snow for for the first day of winter (not where I live though, just a little further) to a beautifully warm day this first day of Spring. I saw the opportunity to wear a dress without stockings and without regret, enjoyed the rest of the blissful day with the slight breeze flowing through my skirt. I'm also an annual cleaner and usually start just towards Summer and I know I'll have conflicting feelings about the clothes I'll be packing up for storage. This cropped sweater will be one of those things I'd hate to part with just yet. I remember asking Peter's mama to knit it for me with the mustard colour in mind. Without hesitation, she worked on it for a couple of weeks and I've worn it plenty of times in plenty of ways since she finished with it. I also bought these pretty red flats from Tempt and I've never bought shoes from them before but I find them so comfy and a real treat just to look at.

Old Dangerfield dress//Knitted cropped sweater by Peter's mama//Tempt shoes

LAST DAY OF WINTER

2015-08-30T16:16:00.000+10:00

One more sleep until Spring! Mind you, the sun only came out for about 20 minutes and currently it has become very gloomy outside since then.

It's still pretty cold so I felt a little daring when I chose to wear shorts. But Spring is still practically here and although it usually brings the wet season and cooler breezes, it means there will be much more efficient lighting to look forward to which is exciting for Peter and I since we both like to shoot with Polaroid land cameras. This being said, I'd say that Spring is also my least favourite season when it's the only time of the year that magpies go on swooping rampages and the air fills up with pollen for my hayfever. Yes, I have hayfever and so therefore, I can hate Spring because of this too.

Tempt button up blouse//Converse shoes//Tempt shorts//Old tartain scarf//Thrifted bag

Photos taken by Peter*

AN ANIMAL KINGDOM

2015-08-22T10:02:00.002+10:00

I've introduced my dogs and some of my other pets before and having pets seem to be one of my best conversation starters with people I'm still getting to know. It's fun to watch different reactions from people once they realize that I have more animals than I need where I reside and when I explain that I have some scaly creatures as well. This is Flynn Rider but Flynn for short. He's named after Eugene from the movie Tangled. The only way animals like him should ever be worn is around your neck or wrist, alive. He's much smoother and slender compared to my other fur babies but I have so much respect for him none the less. 2 years ago, I honestly would not have seen myself owning a reptile. They freaked me out and I had negative feelings towards them. Especially snakes. I'm a curious person though and when I come across tonnes of suggested videos which eventually lead up to people and their crazy animal pets, I became fascinated with people who chose to have reptilians to look after rather than a cat or dog. I've since learned to appreciate the beauty of these slithering animals and began to want one for myself.

Flynn is a Green Tree Python and his kind does not come cheap. The exotic pet trade is illegal here in Australia, but I can't believe this Sorong GTP is something I can have for my own. Snakes like him need quite some high quality care. Although he's actually pretty easy to look after, there were many things I had to consider and risk before I got him. I also had to acquire a wildlife license before I could purchase him and that is not an easy or quick process. It delayed for longer than a month when the breeder and I had exchanged hundreds of emails and was just playing the waiting game. Alas, he was sent to me all carefully packaged. Altogether, there was so much paperwork just to be able to have him as a pet and I don't think I've ever had to do such an amount of work and research for anything like him before. But it was worth it.

His enclosure is a live vivarium and he looks rather pretty being as green and bright as he is. He's nice and had never bitten. In fact, he could be the most shyest Green Tree Python there is, knowing their reputation is actually quite aggressive. A bite by him is enough to make you remember for a lifetime to try and never be bitten by a GTP ever again.

PRE SPRING BARING

2015-08-17T10:36:00.001+10:00

When we can, Peter and I visit the boathouses in Williamstown and we try to make sure the owners or members of the anglers club aren't around. When they are, taking pictures can get a little awkward but when they're not, sitting by the end of one of the piers can be quite therapeutic on a day with good weather.

It's still a little cold to be cancelling out pants and stockings completely but it seemed rather nice to have bared my legs whilst the sun began to set during the early evening. This season my favourite colour became that of all sorts of mustards and khaki and I really did enjoy this year's gloriously chill winter but I would love to move onto Spring now. I want to be able to wear dresses again and look forward to the early finish of uni to spend most of my time making myself more things. It'd be lovely to reunite with Gloria (my machine of course) to make myself perhaps a few A line skirts that have really been presenting themselves well in all the shops for quite some time.

Chuck Taylor's//Tempt striped top//Chicabooti sweater//Glassons skirt//Princess Highway bag

Photos taken by Peter

GLASSONS Mod Squad

2015-08-02T20:04:00.004+10:00

Maybe it's the reruns of That 70s Show that's influencing my recent love for 70s inspired picks. I'm just really digging the mustards, rusty reds, khaki, denim, browns and orange hues. Besides eyeing Jackie Burkhart and Donna Pinciotti (bringing back memories yet?), Glassons has perfectly recaptured my favourite casual pieces and some that I never thought I really want to try. This winter has only made my love for stripes even deeper and my curiosity in trying more things much stronger. I think I need a new belt and possibly add to my very minuscule denim collection. This is possibly the best excuse to buy more stripes though. I honestly don't think I have enough.

via Mod Squad Lookbook

LAY BACK SUNSHINE

2015-08-02T14:09:00.000+10:00

The sun came out today but it was rather windy and most of the time I was squinting as I faced towards the hard breeze. As a Melbournian, it is my right to enjoy this beautiful sunshine while it lasts.

It would have been more practical to wear a pair of sunnies but I wouldn't have been able to wear my new frames from Bailey Nelson. Besides, I had no sunnies in the car. The past few weeks have been busy. I have had placement as a teacher in schools and this week should be my last but all I've been able to do is eat, plan lessons and sleep when I get home with no room for uni readings and assignments. However, planning lessons is fun and teaching is even more fun. My placement is at a secondary catholic school and it feels good to wake up having planned an outfit that is suitable for myself to wear in front of a classroom. Now, the top-bun, long cat socks and don't-care outfit has been long overdue. I'm liking not having to wear stockings under a dress or skirt and slouching. I really love slouching.

Chicabooti top//Cotton On scarf//Topshop dungarees//Cotton On anorak//Dangerfield socks//Chuck Taylor classic sneakers//Bailey Nelson Parker glasses

SNOWSTORM IN THE RANGES

2015-07-14T19:48:00.004+10:00

It's been so exciting to wait for the snow to fall in Victoria due to the antarctic blast this weekend but the forecast as always was just so unpredictable and for the first time, I was frustrated at the current fluctuation of snow vs. rain.

It was of course well worth the wait to sit in the car while a thin sheet of snow began to fall. I was more prepared for the rainfall which the forecast had promised but eventually the raindrops turned into fluffy flakes of snow. Mt. Macedon is actually quite close to where I live but we all know it would never snow in suburbia. I could say this is actually the first time I've seen real snow fall from the sky and I don't count the snow they make in blowers at ski resorts when there's not enough snow from the night before. I'm sure that winter would definitely more fun to experience for a day in Europe or in the States but I got to taste an hour of frozen fingertips and numb toes. Keeping a close eye on the Macedon forecast is now on my winter to-do list just so I can have another day like this.

THE ZOO

2015-07-14T19:17:00.003+10:00

I've been waiting a while to visit the Melbourne Zoo and today my mum and I took a trip there. I get free entry to all Victorian zoos and the only one I've really been to is the Werribee Open Range Zoo.

It's always nice to spend the day with my mum somewhere besides being at home watching movies, not that that isn't awesome because it totally is. The Zoo was so much better this time round compared to when I was 14 and on a school excursion in the rain. I have to say though, I never thought in a million years prior to having owned a reptilian my favourite part of the zoo would be the reptile house. I felt like a kid nagging my mum to come check out the coolest animal through the window. I got to see a blood python, reticulated python, king rattlesnake and a tokay gecko all of which I never thought I'd ever see for myself in my whole life. I even got to see what my own little gecko would look like once she becomes full grown. Remind me to mention her again in another post sometimes. Zoo experiences are still truly one of the best for both children and adults as I really feel they reach out about the importance of our fellow inhabitants from all walks, slithers and swimmers of life.

LET'S TALK ABOUT LASHES. PART 1

2015-07-05T14:29:00.002+10:00

I've been wanting to make this post for a long while now but I never knew how I'd go about talking lashes. I wanted to break this into two parts; the first being my experiences and my favourite products; and the second being a tutorial on how to put them on with ease. No matter how old we first start, beginners will always find a hard time with them.

Most people, like myself use false lashes because we weren't blessed with lusciously long, curvy ones and others want to accentuate their eyes. My first experiences with them were messy and pokey for the most part and I never really liked how they looked on me because I didn't really know how or what I was meant to be doing. Up until the beginning of 2015, I've had nasty experiences and never got to appreciate them for what they were supposed to do for me. They were heavy, spiky and for some reason made my eyes really tired and dry. When I went to the Philippines earlier in the year, I decided to get eyelash extensions as they were really cheap compared to Australian prices and I had wanted to try them for a while. I loved them and they were super pretty. They felt a little heavier on the first two days but I had gotten used to them by the third day and they lasted almost a month until I had to take them off. I don't think I'd get them done here anytime soon as I'm still not prepared to spend that much on them right now so I've settled for false lashes instead. A week after removing my extensions, I began missing them and thought to buy a pair of falsies at Priceline.

The pair I chose was Eylure Texture No 117 which came pre-glued. Before I tried them, I read different tutorials and watched people on Youtube show me how I'm supposed to use them because they were such a pretty pair that it would only be a waste if I applied them incorrectly again. And from there, I think I just fell madly obsessed with falsies. Gradually, I began buying different types from the Eylure brand like lashes that were made for extra volume, definition and even a couple of dramatic ones. Eylure isn't the only brand I have tried but they are by far my favourite. They have an impressive assortment of lashes so any of them could really suit you. If you're thinking of purchasing a few pairs from Eylure, go for it! They have great packets for beginners and most of their lashes are pretty straight forward to apply. I haven't found a single one to be heavy or pokey for my eyelids.

My current favourite pair is the Exaggerate No 143 and I think I may have worn them over 15 times and I haven't found the need to replace them yet. That's another one of the pros to good quality falsies. As long as you're looking after them properly, they should have a shelf life of 10-15 wears. If they last longer than that then even better! You'll figure out when you'll need to buy a new pair which is when they begin to go yucky from the glue and you can no longer clean it off to look perfect for the next wear. You can find their biggest range in Priceline stores although I don't live so close to one, soemtimes my local Coles sells No 117 in the beauty/skin/body/hair care isle. I'll also be sure to throw up a tutorial on how I select, size and apply a new set of false lashes.

OLD WINTER, NEW WINTER

2015-07-04T20:39:00.001+10:00

Happy July! It's funny how our city is celebrating Christmas in July which would be something completely foreign to the rest of the world. The rest of the world is enjoying summer or warmer weather than us and when I read other blogs, I can see them all baring their legs with smiles.

Though I may not have done much during my break, this winter seems to be the best by far. Everything about this year's winter is almost new to me. Almost. If I am to compare this year's winter to the last one, I'd say that I'm doing many things differently. I know I don't talk about beauty or mention my make-up routine, perhaps I should, but this year I've noticed that I've not wanted to wear as much make-up or use heavy foundation. Last year, I was swearing by MAC's Pro Longwear foundation which is a medium to full coverage foundation, but this year I'm happily wearing Benefit's Hello Flawless which is a light to medium coverage. I've also had less drier skin than last year which has always been my greatest worry. My hair was also short if you can remember and it was sitting just above my shoulders and alas, I've grown my hair out again quite healthily might I add. Last winter, I also remember wearing more dresses with stockings than this year. I know I have to catch up with the amount of outfit posts I make, but I have realised how comfortable jeans and booties and a nice coat can be on a winter's day. And another thing to keep note for this winter, I've been really loving khaki. It's a colour that shows up everywhere at the moment and ironically, it's the colour the catches my attention the most.

Chicabooti top//Glassons Jacket//Topshop Jamie jeans//Gummie booties//old thrifted bag//Brooch from the Sovereign Hill souvenir shop

FROM WHENCE THEY ROAM

2015-06-30T15:02:00.004+10:00

I'm sure you've seen Ruskii and Poo-Chu on the blog from time to time but I really wanted to take the time to appreciate these warm companions of mine. I gave them both a bath today and I wish I could somehow upload the way they smell for you to sniff...

Poo-Chu is a pomeranian x fox terrier and Ruskii is a jack russell x pomeranian. Pooch is a nervous girl but when you first meet her, she's sweet and will most likely be inclined to politely ask you for a pat for as long as she can get one. Ruskii is a goofball that won't tip toe around the puddles, but rather stomp into them and stare back at you with pride and gratitude. I love these two mutts and since today's winter day decided to bless us with some sun, there was no excuse not to give them a bath. I use Divine Pets shampoo after soaking their coats and the scent is so pleasant to bathe them with. It's also quite relaxing to have my hands in their warm water massaging their fur as I smell all sorts of its aromas with eucalyptus, rosemary and lavender blends. Pooch gets an extra treat for her longer coat with Pet Head Furtastic cream rinse as it really helps to soften her locks and also assist with detangling after her bath. It also makes her smell like freshly baked muffins and all sorts of yummy treats but Ruskii doesn't really need to use it as she barely has any hair. As a result, I get two babes that smell completely different.

I love that their personalities aren't the same but it's sometimes difficult when you have two female canines in your family pack as they like to fight each other for dominance, or just fight over the only male in the house which is my dad. But besides all the arguing, they are the sweetest losers that my family loves.

OH, THE PLACES WE FIND

2015-06-15T09:38:00.003+10:00

Did I mention I'm on a uni break? Finally, the time has come where I'm no longer stressing about counted essays and it feels great to be spending most of the weekends as carefree as I can along with Peter's company.

The days grow frostier by the mornings and all my phalanges are beginning to suffer each time they're slightly exposed to the chill of winter. I do love winter though, even though I could never experience the snow in suburbia. Helping me through this season is probably this wrap/cape that feels like a warm blanket. People have commented on how cosy and snug I look with it on and I plan to wear it often this winter. Having a university stalkerspace has taught me that you can literally wear anything to uni to only be accepted by your fellow community so I feel much too confident to show off my blankety throw in attempts to keep me warm.

Early winter is interesting at this time, especially when we can catch a glimpse of the last rays late in the afternoon. It gets dark so soon now that I always feel as if 6pm is much too late for me to be coming home.

Cotton On blanket wrap//Glassons ripped denim skirt//Cotton On Felt Fedora//Chicabooti striped top//Target stockings (similar)//Hand-me-down Dr. Martens

Pictures taken by Peter

AMONGST THE CALM

2015-06-15T09:10:00.000+10:00

One of my favourite pictures of Peter down at Woodend yesterday. It's such a lovely small town that may be cold in winter but you're sure to feel it's warmth.

AUTUMN IN THE WOODS

2015-04-28T23:41:00.004+10:00

Amongst all my copious amounts of assignments I am still yet to conquer, I am quite overdue to post about my trip to the Philippines and to delay myself all the more, here's a recent walk Peter and I went on this previous Sunday.

My uni friend and I actually took a walk here a few weeks ago and because I loved it so much, I had to share it again with Peter. It's refreshing to feel the cool of autumn on the tip of my nose and it almost feels quite chimerical how swiftly the seasons change, now that the colours are starting to match my skin. Wandering through the conservation made me realise just how much the orange, brown and golden hues remind me of Edward Bloom's adventures in Tim Burton's Big Fish although not quite as extravagant with giants, circus fellows and yellow fields abound. However, they all capture the same beauty. Straying from any sort of foot path, we stopped to look around the abandoned shed and I tried being very careful to take pictures with Peter's large format Crown graphic camera. That camera sure weighs a few but its pictures did prove to be quite a sight after they were developed.

Forever 21 top//Alive Girl skirt//Cotton On scarf// Gummie gumboots (similar)//Cotton On socks//Target stockings

SOUTHWOOD

2015-03-11T12:46:00.000+11:00

It's a busy week for me especially for my first day of uni for the trimester and it will only be as busy until my family and I leave for the Philippines this Friday.

After last year's units, I think I've figured how I'll be staying organised this year. While you might think I'd be going overboard with a calander, extra timetable, diary and weekly planner, from what I've learned last year, things like this seem to help with getting very important things like oh, I don't know... assignments done and handed in on time.

This week is week one of uni and by Friday I would be flying to my home country and so it's been a whirlwind of errands to do until then. My first day consisted of waking up to catch the sunrise after downloading the Magic Hour app on my phone last week. But unfortunately, the light revealed the thick layer of clouds in the sky. The whether wasn't so bad though. It wasn't cold and the opportunity was there for another outfit post. I do like getting into this good habit of waking up. It makes the thought of waking up for uni more bearable. Shortly afterwards I made my way to Chapel street to exchange a skirt I had bought which was in the wrong size. I know my size. I know I fit a size small. And when I bought the skirt, I thought I had taken the size small off the shelf but to my surprise, when I got home it wouldn't fit because I somehow bought the extra small size. Apparently they don't do exchanges for sale items so sadly, I left without any sort of gain. Plus, I walked almost all the way up and down Chapel before stores opened at 10am. That was a long walk on my own.

Thankfully I made it to uni way before my first lecture and I caught up with a friend and her friend. As usual, it was an introductory lecture and straight afterwards we all had to somehow trek to Colleges and sweat our professionalism off before we reach them. We sat in a seminar about the College and what will happen when us uni students get paired up with their students. Honestly, I was no longer listening at this point after all the walking I had done. The adventure back home was so much easier and so I dropped my friend home and her suburb she currently resides in at the moment is beautiful. It's community orientated and there's big wildlife conservation for local animals that also call that place home, and so that was a huuuuuge thumbs up for me. She should have me over sometimes just so I can take pictures.

Lastly, I had pizza night when I got home with some friends and it was good. It was a great excuse to have them over and fatten ourselves up with some traditional bonding food. It was a great day. It was a busy day. I had also managed to fit in some washing in there somehow. So it was a busy first day back but after all that, wouldn't you be really tired? I sure was.

Dangerfield top/Dangerfield skirt/Cocolatte cardigan (different colour)/Red bag (similar)/London rebel flats

ROOFTOP CURIOSITIES

2015-03-07T18:00:00.000+11:00

Rooftop car parks do have the potential to be great locations for photo opportunities when and if you have luckily caught that special time frame for a few snaps.

We went to Ikea last Sunday and it wasn't my intention to make a post from here but the thought came to me as I was pre-deciding what sheets to pick from Ikea which has no correlation to their car park.

It was a busy week/weekend preparing Peter's mother's room for her safe arrival back home from Orlando and things had to be done, ie. purchasing new sheets for her. As you can see, these were taken when the light of day was the most strongest. As much as I had wished to stay longer and see orange hues invade the sky, there was just far too much to be done. Truly, I am curious as to how pictures would turn out if I waited but Peter and I often visit Ikea. Ironically enough, not for our own house but for the smallest bits and bots we find along the long walk.

London Rebel Flats/Topshop Jamie Pants/Valley Girl Top/Dangerfield Bag/Sunnies from a friend

Pictures taken by Peter