SHESOPRECIOUS

FEARLESS

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Sun, 07 Oct 2012 05:24:00 +0000

STEPPING INTO A FAIRYTALE UNDER A CURTAIN OF STARS

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Tue, 24 Jul 2012 04:00:00 +0000

Knit tops, distressed shorts, and a cup of tea are the perfect combo for breezy summer evenings. My boyfriend and his coffee obsession have definitely upped my intake of caffeine, so when I want to be "healthy", my alternative would be tea. My current favourite is Toasted Walnut from David's Tea. Perfectly paired with one of my favourite reads, The Night Circus. I don't remember the last time I fell this hard for a book.

THE WAY IT FEELS TO BE COMPLETELY INTERTWINED

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 18:30:00 +0000

Here are my rotating outfits on a recent trip with my boyfriend and his family to Oregon. Before we left Vancouver, it was still drizzling, but when we got to Portland the weather took a turn and it was nothing but warmth and sunshine. Thank goodness cause I was starting to get really bummed out, thinking I can't sport my shorts for a consecutive summer.

LIFE WITHOUT YOU IS SOMETHING I CAN'T SEE

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 02:16:00 +0000

Skeptical? Yes. Proven wrong? Yes.

I have sensitive combination skin. The oily side drives me up the wall. I've tried combating shine with numerous products from pressed powder which was unfriendly to my sensitive skin to translucent loose powders that cast a white sheen over my existing makeup to gel mattifiers that feel thick and only last for a few mins. I absolutely frown upon packing a makeup bag just for touch ups, so I'd use Starbucks napkins for blotting... until now!

When I saw Urban Decay DeSlick Oil Control Makeup Setting Spray, I cringed at the packaging. Then I purchased a trail size bottle and followed the instructions. I apply my moisturizer, primer, give it a few sprays and let it dry before I apply foundation. Do the rest of my makeup and then spray again to set it.

Does it really control shine for up to 16 hours? Don't be crazy. My theory is if your skin is oily, it's only natural for it to release oil - it would be unhealthy for you to keep the oil from surfacing, which can most likely lead to breakouts. Sides, the biggest advantage for having oily skin is no wrinkles! My mom is in her 60s but no one believes her cause she looks 40.

So when shine does surface, I use Urban Decay DeSlick Mattifying Powder over the shiny areas. It does not destroy the rest of your makeup by making it lighter. It truly just mattifies your face and makes your makeup look "fresh" again.

Verdict: The miracle product is the DeSlick Setting Spray, as it really helps control initial shine. Usually by the time I finish applying all my makeup, my forehead is already starting to shine, especially in the summer heat. It doesn't last all day but a few sprays that help control oil for a few hours? That's enough to blow me away and purchase a full size bottle.

As for the DeSlick Mattifying Powder, if you're already happy with your powder, then you can skip this. Besides not making me look like a ghost, I like this cause it comes in a beautiful compact instead of a jar that most translucent powders come in. It is lightweight and does not break me out like other pressed powders do. The downside is the "puff" - if I can even call it that - it's pathetic. I'm not sure how many times I can use it before it gets completely destroyed; it's so thin. The compact doesn't give you enough room to fit a standard-sized applicator inside so I'll have to figure something out when it needs to be replaced.

ONCE YOU HAVE THE BEST, YOU CAN'T DO BETTER

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 03:42:00 +0000

I've been living in this shirt. It's kinda hard not to. With the perfect shade of bleached denim, it goes with absolutely everything. My kinda go-to. Been on a couple shopping trips lately and made a few purchases that I cannot wait to wear out. Not going to stop there cause I'm catching up with a girlfriend after school on Friday and I would love a new pair of heels.

I FELL FLAT ON MY FACE BUT DIDN'T LOSE

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 07:22:00 +0000

Life has been throwing me curveballs and I'm coping with the ongoing changes and learning to let things ride. My folks and boyfriend have been amazing and I should mention that they have been amazing as one unit. Even when times are rough, love makes life's lessons gentler and easier to manage. I cannot ask for a greater support system. So here's to life's hardships, you'll never get the best of me. Even if I let you, my people won't let me. Blessed.

WE DON'T SLEEP WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Tue, 29 May 2012 08:30:00 +0000

ZARA TANK, H&M SHORTS, ALDO COMBAT BOOTS, SABRINA TACH BUCKET BAG

"It's not what happens to us, it's what happens in us."

ps. birthday kisses to the strongest woman I know, my moms. xox

WAS LOOKING EVERYWHERE FOR LOVE & I FOUND IT RIGHT HERE

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Thu, 24 May 2012 16:30:00 +0000

My boo and I celebrated our 3rd year anniversary in Seattle this May long weekend. We did a little shopping on the first day, where I stocked up on Sephora necessities and was convinced that a straw hat from J.Crew would be the perfect accessory for summer. We always end up at The Cheesecake Factory whenever we're in town. This time, we ordered the Guacamole Made-To-Order and it deserves a "OMG it's delicious!", a perfectly-cooked Petite Filet and Kobe Burger and we finished off with a slice of Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake. We took a much-needed walk back to our hotel and called it a night.

The weather took a drastic turn the next day, but it didn't stop us from having fun (even though my hair may disagree). Since I'm an animal fanatic, we started the day at Woodland Zoo Park. I've never been to the zoo on a rainy day before and surprisingly, it was far from disappointing. Instead of the usual napping, all the wild cats came out to enjoy the drizzle. There was this monkey that reminded me of E.T. and he was my personal favourite. He looked so sad that I wanted to give him a big hug. As if we didn't walk enough, we visited the Pike Place Market, where we bought superhero figurines and stayed until closing time. We had dinner at Romano's Macaroni Grill, where the service and ice tea were excellent, but the food could use a bit more flavour. We took our sweet time and grocery shopped (I need my White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Haagen-Dazs) before we headed back to Vancouver.

After 3 years, we're still honeymooning and having a blast. And I know that's something time will never change.

IMPOSSIBILITIES

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Wed, 23 May 2012 22:43:00 +0000

BRIGHTER THAN THE SUN

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 04:28:00 +0000

I've reviewed how I enhance my waves from a previous post, but have not reviewed any products. My go-to product have been Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, which works brilliantly. But I thought to give Charlotte Ronson A Perfect Mess Beach Hair a try because the scent is alluring and I'm looking for something less damaging. I was skeptical because of the mixed reviews on Sephora but I couldn't suppress my curiosity, so I bought a bottle knowing I could return it if it did nothing for me.

Comparing the two products, I would say that Surf Spray gives more volume, gives softer waves and holds your waves in for a longer period. However, if I use this too often and too much, my hair gets quite dry and can feel gritty. A Perfect Mess smells like summer in a bottle, is lighter and much less damaging and gives your waves a more defined look. I find that if I spray on too much, my hair can get crunchy (which I resolve by running my fingers over the strands).

Verdict: I LOVE both products, almost equally. But if I had to weigh in the damaging factor and the price, it would definitely be Charlotte Ronson ($24 CDN) over Bumble and Bumble ($30 CDN). I would recommend A Perfect Mess if you'd like to create beach waves every day and I would recommend Surf Spray for days that are long and you'd want to make sure your waves last.

My Hair Type: chemically treated/highlights, thin, naturally wavy

THORNS HAVE ROSES

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:52:00 +0000

A MOVEABLE FEAST LEATHER JACKET & NASTYGAL TOTALLY SPACED SWEATER

DON'T PAY ME NO MIND, SUGAR

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 05:03:00 +0000

Been searching high and low for a casual bucket bag and by george, I think I've found one. The Tajos Shredded Bucket Bag is perfect for warm weather outfits. If it arrives within the week, it would be a nice sized bag to bring with me to TO. I'm ready for another last minute trip, away from work and school. This busy year have finally slowed its pace with March being a self-pampering month. I even had time to do some shopping. Caught up with 'Pretty Little Liars' (impatiently waiting for Season 3) and developed an obsession with 'Sims Free Play' when I should be hammering away on my final project. Gotta steer off track for sanity's sake.

EVERYONE'S ASKING WHY I'VE GOT A SMILE ON MY FACE

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 01:07:00 +0000

February was pure madness. All work and no play. Caught a cold mid-way. Our mini-getaway to Whistler came just in time. It was a beautiful drive up to our local mountain, although the way down was another story.

On our first night, we had dinner at Bavaria and ordered the Alpine Fondue Meal - which kept us eating for 3 hours straight, no joke. For starters, it was a cheese & wine fondue with bread and veggies. The entree consisted of shrimp, chicken, pork and because I love me some beef, we had that too with chicken broth. Think of it as hotpot but much more expensive. For dessert, we had chocolate with fruits and marshmallows. Yum.

The following night, we had a late dinner/dessert at Crepe Montagne. If you enjoy cozy restaurants and French food, this is a great little place to visit. We shared the Champignons crepe - fresh mushrooms with ham in a cream sauce and the Belle Helene crepe - pear, chocolate sauce, vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. The family at the table next to us were grilling their own bacon which was quite interesting. They serve fondue too, but we've had enough. No more dipping food in liquids for awhile.

The main activity of our trip was snowmobiling. Truth be told, I was scared out of my mind. Thought I was going to drive myself off the cliff. It was tempting to double-up with my man, but I like a challenge and I'm happy I stuck it through. We made a few pitstops at the top. It was incredibly quiet and peaceful. So serene that it just takes your breath away...

CAN'T STOP WON'T STOP

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:33:00 +0000

LOVE ON XMAS DAY | WATCH THE THRONE | DINNER WITH THE LADIES (& OUR MEN TOO)

XMAS DINNER AT HOME WITH MY FAM | WAITING FOR DINNER | INDULGENCE DATE WITH A GF

DOUBLE DATE PAINTING CERAMICS | MY LONG SOUGHT AFTER LEATHER JACKET BY A MOVEABLE FEAST | HOV

XMAS DAY WITH BF'S FAM | EXTRA LOVE ON XMAS DAY | COMFORT FOOD ON OUR DATE NIGHT

Better late than not at all. It's been hectic nearing the end of 2011 and for some reason, January is even busier than December was. I'm excited to see what 2012 will bring. This weekend was my first day back to school (yes, again) for part-time studies. "The best investment is in yourself." Wise words of encouragement, especially when you have to make sacrifices for the future. To sum up 2011, it was a year of growth. I wouldn't say it was a light-hearted year, but it was definitely rewarding. The reward comes from the confidence and realization of who I am and how true I can stay to myself and those around me. It's always been an ongoing goal to better myself and I'm more than happy to say that that's exactly where I'm headed. There's just no stopping me.

PURR

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:34:00 +0000

Recently I've developed a "slight" obsession with the furry side of things. These calf hair Pratillo loafers are on sale. Perfect timing? I think so.

THE VOICE IN YOUR EAR, THAT'S ME

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:10:00 +0000

ZARA FUR VEST & NINE WEST BOOTS

No white Christmas in Vancouver but it has been quite cold. Which gives me the perfect excuse to throw on something warm and flawlessly soft. This vest is so fluffy that you'd want to hug me for as long as I'd let you. One thing I wish I could change is the size of the hood - I prefer hoods that are big enough to hide my vision. But the softness sure makes up for it. Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

LAUGHS AT THE BURGER JOINT

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 06:18:00 +0000

Good things come to those who wait. And I've been waiting to check a pair of Sam Edelman Louie Boots off my wishlist since July! Now I gotta wait for the mailman... blah. On a completely random note, the boyfriend & I went to Fat Burger tonight and I had their Maui Wowie Shake and it's freaking delicious. A must try for the banana cream lover.

REVIEW: Hana Titanium Flat Iron

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:00:00 +0000

You know how the saying goes, "You don't know what you've been missing until it arrives." That is exactly how I feel about the Hana Titanium Flat Iron. I must've own at least five flat irons and this one definitely stands out from the rest. All my previous irons have 1" plates, whereas the Hana Titanium have 1.5" plates. It's a given - the bigger the plates, the faster your hair gets straightened. I dunno about you, but I'm always rushing out the door. The size of the plates is one thing, what completely won me over is how smooth it feels when I glide the plates through my hair. Cheap straighteners always pull and snag.

Additional awesomeness: Heats up in seconds, long 8ft swivel cord, my hair's not overheated after I run the iron through, comes with a free heat pad (handy for my absentminded self; sometimes I forget to unplug my straightener and will come home thanking my lucky stars I didn't burn my house down), adjustable heat goes up to 450°F but 230°F is plenty for my hair type (which reminds me, I still want to try the Moroccan Oil Light Oil Treatment).

A couple downfalls: Because the plates are bigger, it can be harder to clamp hair that's close to your scalp. It is also on the higher end of flat irons, but if your hair is thin & over processed like mine, then this is worth investing in. It also doesn't hurt that it has a 2 year warranty.

Thanks to Brian at Misikko for sending me the iron and other goodies! Didn't take me long to be convinced that HANA irons are the real deal. Heard they just came out with a hair dyer - ahh, you know what that means...

REVIEW: Sudocrem

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:00:00 +0000

I have a bad beauty habit. I can't help it. I like to pop my pimples. Anything that's foreign to my face, needs to go. But I should know better... Good thing I was introduced to Sudocrem! Although its primary use is for diaper rash, it's also an antiseptic cream that's gentle and versatile for other skin conditions, such as acne.

I'm always skeptical of products that claim to work on popped pimples. My skin likes to take its sweet time before it heals. I have used products that help dry out spots, but they'll remain red and inflamed. I noticed Sudocrem targets both concerns and now I'm hooked. Every time a bump appears, I'll spot treat it and what may take a week to heal will heal in a few days. It also takes very little product to cover all problem areas. Did I mention that it's dirt cheap (approximately $10) and you can find it in the baby aisle at most drug stores. Oh, I also use it on minor cuts and scrapes.

The one thing that puts me off a little is it's very tacky and smells kinda minty. Definitely not something that can be worn as a day cream. It leaves a white residue so you'll have to rub it in or let your skin absorb it overnight. Because the consistency is quite thick, I would not recommend applying this all over your face.

Thanks to Hayden from Orbital Media Network for contacting and convincing me to try Sudocrem. Who knew diaper rash cream will be on my list of essential beauty products?

DRIVE IN THE OCEAN

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 00:08:00 +0000

OBAKKI MORGAN DRESS + ALDO COMBAT BOOTS

"An entire sea of water can’t sink a ship unless it gets inside the ship.

Similarly, the negativity of the world can’t put you down unless you allow it to get inside you."

AIM FOR MY HEART

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 05:24:00 +0000

OBAKKI CHLOE DRESS, JESSICA SIMPSON PUMPS, MICHAEL KORS PURSE

The boyfriend and I attended a friend's wedding recently, where there were plenty of dessert and dancing. There were a few embarrassing moments like when I caught the bouquet and when a male friend impressively drunk danced to Bieber. I'm looking forward to him being a part of the entertainment when my man and I get hitched.

I'm relieved that I chose this outfit because it is by far the most comfortable dress I've worn to a formal event. I love that it is conservative yet playful. There's fabric underneath that forms a tube dress while the top & bottom is sheer, with a lacey, spiderweb detailing, so you can still show off a little bit of skin. I can't wait to wear it again. And that's definitely something I don't say often.

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 06:11:00 +0000

FREE PEOPLE PLEATED SKIRT

This skirt is seriously sheer. Despite the layer underneath that I suppose is there to hide your undies, it just doesn't do the job. But oh, does it flow. I love the frayed edges and the shade of pink reminds me of my ballerina days. If I'm feeling extra girly, then this is something I'll go straight to. All it makes me want to do is twirl & twirl & twirl.

THINKING ABOUT FOREVER

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 06:26:00 +0000

I'm very blessed to say that as of late, I'm in a very good place.
I have few words when it comes to expressing my happiness, so I'll leave you with songs that keep me in a state of tranquility.

Little Dragon - Twice

Kartell - Pantera

Munchi - Hope

The Hundred in the Hands - Ghosts

Deadmau5 - Raise Your Weapon

Santogold - Starstruck

Trentemøller - Moan

RIPPING THROUGH MY HEART

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:02:00 +0000

FREE PEOPLE LACE SHORTS

"I don't just want your heart.
I want your flesh, your skin and blood and bones,
your voice, your thoughts, your pulse and
most of all your fingerprints, everywhere."

FLOAT

noreply@blogger.com (JANE) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 16:03:00 +0000

Long overdue are the pictures from my birthday. If you follow me on twitter, then you may know that I decided to jump out of a plane to celebrate. A handful of my peeps came along to risk their lives with me. It was such a rush. Everything happened super fast. Suited up. Nerves on the plane ride. Doors opened. Fell from the sky. Suspended and mesmerized from a bird's eye view. Landed with grace - as my boyfriend puts it - just like Mary Poppins. We took it easy for the rest of the evening, where everyone met up and had seafood for dinner. Another year. Another birthday. Always happy.