from where I'd rather be.

keep at it!

It's 6am. Cue your alarms shrill (and dreaded) tones. You curse the interruption of your blissful slumber and will yourself back asleep. Instead of springing out of bed 'up and at em' style, you snuggle into that warm cocoon of goodness that is your bed. Bright eyed and bushy tailed you are not, the snooze button becomes an all too familiar friend.

Motivation, where art thou?

That cheeky little whats-it always seems to disappear when most needed. Contemplating a morning run? Motivation- nil. Attempt to put in some overtime at work? Motivation- nada. Sticking to a healthy eating plan and saying no to your 22nd piece of chocolate? Forget it, it seems old motivation has better things to do.

Coming into the golden season of summer, reining in and holding onto your motivation can be tricky. Here's some tips to conquer lazy days when things need to be done but you just-can't-be- bothered.

1. Do not procrastinate. The mother of all evils, this 13 letter word is not your friend. Sure, refreshing your facebook page or email inbox makes for a fun time but avoiding what you need to get done ain't helpin', sista! Stay focused and remind yourself why you are doing what you are doing.

2. Give yourself a break. I know, I know, you are thinking 'I am big-fat hypocrite who has no idea what she is going on about because clearly I just said the oppositite of rule number one'. Keep in mind there is a difference between procrastinating (read- laaaazy) and taking 15 or so minutes to clear your head, regroup and refocus. This tip is particulary important during a long day at work, studying for an exam or even exercise plans.

3. Reward yourself. Set a reasonable time limit and goal as to what you want to achieve and once said goal has been achieved, treat yourself. After a gruelling workout indulge in some downtime with some sweeties. Finished your exams or study? Quit thinking about it, go out and have some fun. Setting goals (and rewards) keeps motivation in check and provides an incentive to achieve said goals.

4. Listen to music. Struggling with a work out or getting up early in the morning? Pump some of your favourite tunes. Keep them upbeat and it is that easy. Really, it is.

5. Make a list. I am a listmaker. There is something so satisfying as to ticking off each item once it is complete. If your list is overwhelming and the enormity frightens you a little, resolve to complete one item at a time. By the time you reach the end of your list you will have surprised even yourself with how much you have completed.

BPF- beauty prods forever

Props to all those beauty cupboards out there. Bravo, thank you for making me look somewhat human each morning.

This post is dedicated to all those little gems who make life as a female a little bit easier.

In terms of bases, let's start with first. First base equals fresh skin. And for this I love Sukin. The foaming cleanser, moisturiser, night cream and toner all take pride of place in my bathroom cupboard. They aren't harsh on skin and free from all those nasties that are responsible for sensitive skin and breakouts. You want alcohol, sulphate and parabens? Forget it, you're barking up the wrong tree. Sukin organics are just that- organic and this is why they love my skin. And my skin loves them. The Australian brand also offers a sensitive range and their rose hip oil should be a prerequisite in your nightly beauty routine. Have a look at their affordable range here http://www.sukinorganics.com/. Your skin will love you forever and reward you by staying plump, fresh, clear and very well behaved.

Second on my list of cant-live-withouts is Loreal Paris Lumi Magique foundation. I recently switched foundations and Loreal's newest wonder has become a fast favourite. It promises flawless skin using liquid light technology and while I am not sure I am being 'lit from within' my skin sure does look nice after a meeting with Lumi Magique. The brand offers a range suitable for most skin tones and rose sand matches mine perfectly. (In case you were wondering, which I know you were).

Onto third base now. My, my isn't this a quickie. Short and sweet, I like your style. But what shouldn't be short is your lashes, the eyes are window to the soul so spending a little extra effort on your lashes is worthwhile. I have recently become addicted to eyelash extensions (your local beautician should be able to help you out for around $80 first visit. In-fills are around $45 a pop). Not to be confused with false lashes, eye lash extensions are attached individually (and somewhat painstakingly) to each individual lash. The end result? Natural, full and long lashes. These little beauties will cut down your getting ready time by half. Smudged mascara? A thing of the past. "As much as I love you mascara, I just don't need you in my life anymore. I've met someone else who fulfils my needs." This is what you will say. And if you do happen to pop a little on = super-dooper-supermodel lashes there you go making everybody stare. NB- Oil free cleansers are best for eyelash extensions (the oil in regular make-up removers loosens the glue), Neutrogena does a great oil-free eye make-up remover.  

And there you have it- my BPF's.

N.B- This is only a short list, I could go on for days and days on essential beauty prods. But I won't. You're welcome.

Good day sir!

I have something to admit... Wait, It seems this blog is somewhat of my confessional and whoever happens to read this is my priest. Well done. I digress so now I will confess. I have a penchant for dressing like a boy. I never did go through my tomboy stage during adolescence so here we are nearly 21 years old and I have discovered a love for oversized tees and shirts, skinny jeans and converse. Better late than never, eh?

There is something so appealing about dressing man-style. And fun! And when styled the right way- man style is swoon-worthy. Not to mention comfortable. Eat a big din? No need to suck in, oversized shirt will hide any food baby. Everyone wins. Androgynous dressing can be casual or if needed for evening wear- a tailored white shirt, statement collar necklace, leather skinnies and a pair of brogues (or pumps) can work just as well.

What I wore today- Oversized silk chambray shirt (courtesy of my beautiful Nan), skinnies and fresh white cons. Can you say comfortable? I can. And I will. Because I am very comfortable, thank you.

anybody out there?

The funny thing about blogging is that sometimes (okay, let's be honest) most of the time it feels like you are writingto yourself.  And you probably are. Just like I am right now. Ahhh. But every now and then someone might happen to stumble across your blog and have a read. Hey, they might even like what you're writing. And that is a good feeling. And if they don't? Freedom of expression, I say! 

 This writing biz is a tricky one to crack, the huge amount of people in the exact same position as me is phenonemal. People often wonder why I have picked such a hard industry to make my mark in but challenge is a wonderful thing. And that experience I have had; those few weeks and precious insights into my favourite publications make for some great memories and bring me that one step closer to getting what I want out of this life.

pin it!

Although I feel like an old hand at Facebook, blogging, tumblr  and instagram (old hand- ha! More like addict) Pinterest is a concept I was yet to grasp. Until today. What a fantastic way to get a little inspiration, find a new recipe, nail trend or home decor idea. And even better- you can 'pin' whatever tickles your fancy ensuring those great steps to a messy topknot or flatter bum are never forgotten. Fresh pinner addict at your service! Look me up, throw me a follow- I promise I'll follow back!



sabo skirt - #want

Mint Prarie Dress.

Amaaaaazing!

Hanging up in my cupboard- just begging for a sunny day.

ivory.

 I'll let you in a secret. I have a soft spot for bridal magazines. I love them. I love reading them and I love imagining how the featured weddings would come to life off the glossy pages. Although I have met the man I want to marry, we are in no rush to tie the knot just quite yet (only 20 years young, you see?). That being said, I will I admit to recurring and constant daydreams of the perfect wedding. And that is where this post comes into play.

The term 'the perfect wedding' conjures up a whole bouquet of different meanings, but as this is my blog (and I am in charge and can be a selfish little cuckoo and write whatever I please) I will give you a teeny tiny insight to the inner workings of my wedding imaginations.

When I think of the place I want exchange rings and ' do, I do' two prerequisites come to mind. Intimacy and water views. Both my partner and myself love all things saltwater, a ceremony with a water view is a must. Beach weddings can be tricky, and sometimes tacky. Stilettos in the sand? I think not. Which is why when watching a highly educational and serious television show (Okay, it was Don't Tell the Bride. Don't judge me, it makes for some quality viewing) and one of the dream venues popped up on the screen, I knew it would make a perfect setting for wedded bliss. The Bathers Pavillion at Balmoral offers beautiful and secluded water views of Balmoral Beach and the outdoor terrace is just right for a ceremony. Inside 'The Room' is ideal for a small reception seating from 30 to 102 guests. The historic building has been newly renovated yet is sensitive to its roots. The white sand and blue waters of Balmoral beach is the perfect photographic background for wedding happy snaps. Just the right amount of old and new, The Bathers Pavillion is perfect for oceanic elegance with a relaxed vibe. Have a look for yourself here.

                

             
        
And who could forget about the dress? I'm still undecided as to what frock to don on my future big day but two dream dresses linger in the back of my mind. The first is Steven Khalil number (albeit it is black- my version would of course be ivory).

The tousled up-do compliments this backless wonder as actress Samara Weaving wore ever-so-well at The Logies of this year. Imagine how serene and elegant one would feel walking down the aisle in dress such as this?

The second frock I can't vacate from my mind is a Collette Dinnigan creation. A delicate lattice pearls bodice and a soft, cascading skirt gives this piece an ethereal feel yet steers away from garish and 'over-the-topness' (new word, look it up). The dress is from Dinnigans Summer 2011 collection and is absolutely ideal for a relaxed yet intimate beach-front wedding. 

 And last, but certainly not least every wedding needs a little brilliance to take it into that unforgettable territory.

 Tiffanys, anyone?