Five.

My Mum did this and I thought it was a really good idea. There is this application on facebook that allows you to pick your top 5 in all different categories. I will keep updating this over time but this is what I have at the moment. By the way sorry for the little text in the pictures, I will try to figure out how to change this

I am just a girl.

Today my order from Strawberrynet.com arrived.

I thought I would give a couple of my beauty recomendations.

HAIR

• I use Herbal Essences (colour me happy) shampoo and conditioner. It is around $6 a bottle and not only does it smell beautiful it helps coloured hair look healthy and the colour last longer. I have heard good reports on all of the Herbal Essences range. Finding the perfect shampoo and conditioner isn't about how much you spend, it is about finding the one that works best for you.
  
• I have just started using Tigi hair treatments. I use Ego boost leave in conditioner and split end treatment, Bed head after party smoothing cream and fashionista smooth and shine/heat resistant cream. They are between $20 - $30 each, but I can't believe how much of a difference they have made after just a couple of uses. Always use a heat resistant cream if you blow dry or straighten your hair. 
• I also use ChiChi shimmer hair/body spray. They come in five different fragrances and the main use is to make your hair smell divine. You could use it straight after a shower or even at the end of a long day to make your hair smell fresh again.
  
• I regularly colour my hair black. I don't have a particular favourite, I think it's all about trial and error. The only thing I can say is always pick a colour with a cream as opposed to one with liquid, I find it is much more gentle on your hair. Also if you have the time, learn how to mix your colour in a bowl, separate your hair properly and use a pallete brush to colour your roots. I also say when you are washing the colour out after the recommended time, if the water doesn't run clear after five minutes, use a little bit of shampoo to get the excess out, the conditioner will work better this way and there is nothing worse than crunchy hair.

FACE

• When it comes to washing your face I do believe products that are a bit more expensive will be better for people with problem skin. But if you are like me and rarely get pimples or blemishes I think products in your supermarket or priceline will be just fine. I use Clean and Clear facial scrub, toner and then moisturiser. Once again I think finding the right product is about trial and error and figuring out what you expect from the product itself.
• When I wash my face I use warm water, as it helps to open up the pores. If you are not using toner, I would recommend splashing your face with cold water after washing to close the pores back up.
• When you buy your product make sure you follow the instructions. Buy a cleanser/scrub, toner and moisturiser that is for everyday use. And if you feel you need it, buy a weekly deep cleansing scrub. Only use weekly cleansers once a week because they can damage your skin if used everyday.

MAKE UP

• When it comes to liquid foundation choosing the perfect one for your skin tone and type is very important. Many of the more expensive brands are amazing. However if you are like me and are a little strapped for cash, cheaper brands can be wonderful as well. When it comes to skin tone, search the products for one that is as close to your natural colour as possible, even mix two colours if you need to, there is nothing worse than a lighter/darker face compared to the rest of your body. When it comes to your skin type think about what kind of coverage you desire. If you have flawless skin you can use one that has light coverage or even a tinted moisturiser. If you have blemishes or any other imperfections you can choose a medium to high coverage. Test which foundations work for you. Find one that doesn't 'cake'. I use a foundation brush to apply my foundation and then the tips of my fingers to do the final blending. Lastly, always make sure you blend the colour past the jaw line and down your neck... this makes for a flawless finish.
• After using foundation a little powder works a treat. I recommend you use the matching powder to your foundation (same brand and same colour). This helps seal the foundation in,blend the colour and get rid of the shine for a matte finish. You can also buy sheer powder, which has very little colour if you do not want to ruin the colour of your foundation, or have done deliberate blending with other colours, to define the contours of your face.
• I love blush. The colour is up to you, lighter shades for summer and darker for winter or find one that you just adore all year around. I personally have a very 'soft' face, meaning my bone structure is not as definied as some. Blush helps to create a false, but definite cheek bone. I would recommend you use a blush brush in a size that suits the shape of your face.  Learning how to use blush is very important, the big red circles on your cheeks should only ever appear on a stage. 
• If I could only have one make up product I would choose mascara. Mascara helps to open your eyes and will often help you look fresh and awake. There are mascara's to lengthen, thicken and separate. It is up to you what you want out of your mascara. I still believe that one of the best is Maybelline full lash mascara, and many make up artists swear by it to this very day. However, find one with a brush that you can work with, a colour and a consistancy you like. During summer I would definitely recommend a waterproof mascara as the heat can make it run... giving you panda eyes, which is not attractive.
• I think eyeshadow is a very personal thing. there are a million and one shades out there and I think you should work with whatever colours you like. I personally prefer to keep mine very natural. However finding colours that compliment your eyes can be very benificial and make your eyes just pop. The best thing you can do is learn how to use eyeshadow for your specific eye shape. Shading, blending and contouring is very important. Also eye shimmers in light colours are quick to apply and can give a little bit of sparkle when you are in a hurry.
• The eyebrows frame your face. Keep them tidy, by either plucking or waxing. It is completely up to you whether you like them thick or thin, just keep them shaped.  
• Lipstick, lip tints, lip stains and lip gloss can finish a great face. I do believe if you have full colour on your lips, you should go natural and low key with your eyes and vice versa. A clear gloss is great for a little everyday shine. Lip tints can be great for a little light colour. Lip stains actually stain your lips in a colour, so make sure you like the colour before applying. Lipsticks are very versatile and give you block colour. Whatever it is you are using choose your colour wisely. I personally am a gloss or tint girl, I try to keep my whole face as natural as possible (even if I have put a lot of work into getting it to look 'natural')
  
• Make up brushes are essential to applying make up perfectly. I would invest in some good quality make up brushes, and wash them regularly. The three most important are: foundation, blush and eyeshadow/eyeliner (which you may need up to three different kinds). Learn how to use them because they will be very important tools.
• Remeber practice makes perfect when it comes to applying make up. Don't be afraid to try new things or of the make up itself. Find products you like and never follow trends just because it's what everyone is doing. The trends do not suit everyone, so discover what works best on you and what makes you feel beautiful.
• Removing your make up is essential for your skin. Let your skin breathe at least during the night. Also if you don't remove it you will just be applying over the last layer, which causes caking and can look very clumsy. Even if it looks like it has 'worn off' use make up remover to get the final traces off, you don't want to clog your pores. Removing your make up especially around your eyes is important, you don't want your mascara to clump on your lashes and make them brittle or for your eyeliner, mascara or eyeshadow to find it's way into your eyes during the night.

Well this is it. These are my recommendations and they work for me. I hope you had fun reading and maybe discovering a couple of new things. If you have any beauty tips you wish to share feel free to leave a comment. 

Beautiful walk

Today I was feeling a little bit down and restless. I wasn't able to go and see my Mama and Daddy, and I have really been missing them lately. I was pretty much laying in bed all morning watching repeats of shows I have already seen a million times. You see, Uni holidays seem to last forever... I swear if we didn't get so many holidays the course could be chopped in half - and we wouldn't have to work so hard during the time we have to study. But that is a whole other story, one which I may continue my rant about later.

Anyways, I was complaining to Aaron about this and he told me to go for a walk down to the shops, for something to do and even a little bit of retail therapy. I figured there were some toiletries and such I needed to get so I got dressed and began what I thought would be a horrible and exhausting mission, since I was feeling lethargic and all. I got down to the park and sat on a log for a couple of minutes, in an attempt to prepare myself. But then I thought to myself - enjoy the walk, take in your surroundings, just smile and I pulled myself out of my unhappy state of mind. So I walked and I took in the children playing happily on the playground, interacting and laughing. I watched the mothers sitting together and proudly discussing their children and gossiping. I took in the pond with the ducks and the few ducklings that are left at this time of year.  I watched the birds chirping and flying around... whilst avoiding the magpies and crows. I smelt the fresh air and felt the wind in my hair. It was strangely wonderful.

So, the point of my post today is, sometimes you need to stop and take in the world around you. If you are stressed, depressed, sad or even lonely, just stop and open your eyes. In my opinion I am so lucky to live in this country - it may be very hot at times, but even in the middle of summer - there are vivid colours everywhere, breeze and pure sunshine. 

And today it has put a smile on my face and even inspired me to write.

About me - re posted.

I posted this in my first blog not too long ago, a couple of things have been added and changed, but it's basically the same. I just wanted to have the list on my new blog.

 

• Aaron and I celebrated our 4 year anniversary on the 18th September.
• We also got engaged on the 30th October 2009.
  
• Aaron and I are still completely and utterly in love and know we will be together forever.
• My middle name is Maddison and it is now one of my favorite names.
• I have a certificate III and IV in children's services.
• This year I completed my first year of Bachelor of Education (K-7).
• This year I am going to switch to Psychology - I am so excited.
• I do not have a favorite colour, I just can't choose.
• I listen to my heart more than my head.
  
• My star sign is Libra and I often turn to my horoscope if I am feeling a bit lost.
• I live with Aaron and we will probably move in with some friends this year.
• I have a tattoo on my wrist. It is an "Lbj"written in script - symbolising Lynn, Brian and Jade.
• I am looking at getting the words 'love, adore and cherish' tattooed on the inner side of my ankle.
• I also want a life/inspirational quote on my ribs.
• I love online shopping, especially for cosmetics, perfume and hair care - The best website for this is www.strawberrynet.com
  
• My parents are as close as I can get to best friends. Two people I trust more than anyone. Two people I love with everything I have to give. Two people I feel comfortable with no matter what.
  
• God is a bullet by Boston Teran is my favorite novel.
• The Twilight Saga was good while it lasted.
  
• I think Dan Brown is an amazing writer
  
• I love all of Edgar Allen Poe's work.
• Aaron and I have already picked out baby names, for if and when we have children.
• Acrylic nails make me feel beautiful.
• I have 8 piercings.
• I only wear silver jewelery.
• I have an I.D bracelet that Aaron gave me that I NEVER take off.
• I wear a ring, necklace and earrings Aaron has given me on different occasions.
• I have the biggest sweet tooth.
  
• However I usually eat really healthy.
• I am extremely girly in many ways.
  
• I love eating at restaurants - but usually get order envy.
• I am really indecisive.
• I love to cook. My friends and family rave about my food.
• I like to be in control and know what is going to happen.
  
• I wear dresses almost every day.
• I can't remember the last time I wore pants or jeans.
  
• I only wear ballet flats (shoes)
  
• I love high heels but they hurt my back - so I usually only wear flats, even when I am going out.
  
• My favorite perfumes are : Armani Code, Davidoff cool water, Chanel allure, Britney spears fantasy, Ralph Lauren romance, Miss Dior Cherie... just to name a few.
• I only wear Chanel Allure to bed.
  
• I love scents and smelling things. However I am allergic to lavender.
• I love picnics.
• I often read at the park.
• My favorite high fashion brands are: Chanel, Dior, Prada and louis Vuitton.
• My favourite make - up brands are: Bobbi Brown, Clarins, Lancome, Cover Girl,  Benifit, Maybelline, Shishedo and Napoleon.
  
• I am very shy.
• I am extremely opinionated, but keep my opinions to myself.
• I have been dying my hair black for about 6 years.
• I have size 8 feet.
• I am also I size 8 dress size.
• I love chocolate and I am one of those girls who buy boxed chocolate when I am upset.
• I love to write and have very good handwriting.
• I don't like lamb, pork or seafood and avoid meat whenever possible.
  
• I love all fruits and vegetables (except banana).
• If it wasn't frowned upon - I would always order dessert before dinner, perhaps instead of.
  
• I often write people notes and letters to show my love and appreciation.
• I am addicted to Chai Latte.
• I have lucid dreams almost every night.
  
• I don't deal well with failure.
• I love knowing and learning anything about drugs/alcohol/addiction/mental illness.
• I also love researching personality types.
  
• I am scared of the dark - I will not open my eyes if there is no lights on.
• I drink mainly water.
• I believe that with every negative comes a positive.
• I still have no idea what happens after death (still searching).
• I want a small wedding - with a huge wedding cake!
• I am terrified of death as well as getting old.
• I cherish all the people close to me.
• I can be a perfectionist.
• I won't do something if I am not interested or can't be motivated.
• I no longer drink coffee.
• I carry everything but the kitchen sink in my handbag,
• I often talk to myself when no one is around.
• I also sing when no one is around.
• I love music.
• If I say "I love you" I mean it with all of my heart.
• I have learnt to deal with my emotions over the years.
• The best feelings are love and happiness.
• I am thinking 24/7 - I often go off into my little world, until someone brings me back.
• I don't mind spending time alone.
• I am either too hot or too cold at any given time.
• I love animals.
• Over the years I have wanted to be a tattoo artist, vet nurse, Teacher, Psychologist and Chef.
• I can be extremely uncoordinated.
  
• I dislike sports because of this.
• I do like exercise though - when I can be bothered.
• Over the past couple of years I have learnt a lot about who I am and what I want in life.
• I do want to be a mother one day.
  
• I try to appear strong and perfect all the time - in reality I am just as lost as anyone else.
• I don't make friends easy ( or let anyone get close).
• Just because I don't talk much, doesn't mean I don't like you.
• Believe me, you would know if I didn't like you.
• I hate discrimination of any kind. Why put someone down because of something they cannot change?
• Why put someone down at all? Does it make you sleep better at night?
• Sometimes you just have to hold your head high, and go for it.
• I believe you should follow your dreams and never let anyone tell you that you can't do something.
• My favorite words are: Love, adore, cherish, inspire, passion, believe and dream.
• I hate gardening. I intend on having a plastic garden.
• I don't like baths. Something just doesn't feel right.
• I often clean when I am bored.
  
• I shower and wash my hair at least once a day.
• I am an only child and have never disliked it.
• I have a beauty routine.
• I very rarely drink alcohol.
• I have so many stories to tell. Many of which you will never understand.
• I really dislike photos of myself - unless I am the photographer.
• I don't like socks.
• I can't wait to get at pet.
• I hate belly buttons.
• I don't understand bad manners.
• I like spiders.
• I also like snakes.
• I will usually let a bug outside instead of kill it (depending).
• I can't even look at a preying mantis, they give me chills.
• I could spend forever at the zoo, I just wish I could cuddle the animals - so what if the tiger thinks I am lunch?
• My favorite fruits are: Mango, Apples, Cherries, Lychee's and watermelon.
• I prefer to message people as opposed to calling them.
• I love learning new things.
• I am a list maker. I make lists for everything.
• I sleep with the air conditioner on - even during winter.
  
• I don't tan. I love my pale skin.
• I have a strawberry birthmark on my neck - often mistaken for a hickey - this does not impress me the slightest.
• Even though I would get so angry at Nan when she told me how to do things - I do them that exact way now.
• My Mum and Dad have been my biggest inspiration throughout life.
• I refuse to ever have a credit card.
• If I can't trust you - I will never be close to you.
• I forgive, but trust me - I never ever forget.
• I try to take every day as it comes.
• I hate being overwhelmed.
• I am rarely lost for words.
• I love make-up and dressing up - yes I am a typical girl.
  
• I am easily hurt - but I rarely show it.
• If I take a little bit to respond to a question - give me a sec, I am thinking!
• I am very patient.
• I am empathetic.
• I have always had an interest in vampires.
• I also like anything dark, morbid and sadistic - not really sure why (poetry/books/movies).
• I don't understand 'stupid/mindless' humour.
• I like to read subtitles.
• I desperately need glasses.
• Once upon I time I loved to draw and paint. Now it frustrates me.
• I love fairies and imps.
• I always buy blank cards and write my own verses, it's more personal.
• I love flowers in bright colours, especially blue roses.
  
• I love cherry blossoms.
• I can find beauty in almost anything.
• People say they don't know much about me - it's because you never asked.
• The very first time I spoke to Aaron on msn I knew he was the person I would be with for the rest of my life.
• I also fell in love with him that very day - it's hard to believe, but it's true.
• We didn't start dating for another 2-3 years.
• I absolutely hated high school.
• I love Alice in Wonderland.
• I am often referred to as the 'mother figure'.
• I am easily amused and enjoy the simple things in life.
  
• I have ridden a camel.
• I enjoy fast rides.
• I would prefer to sky dive than to bungee jump.
• I only drink sugar free drinks.
• I hope to one day find the inspiration to write a book.
• I like things to be neat and organised.
  
• Aaron and I can communicate in sounds (a bit hard to explain).
  
• I never intentionally hurt anyone.
• I never shout when I am angry. I often just keep quiet.
• I am very observant, more than people give me credit for.
• I have pretty in depth dreams every single night. I can remember them all when I first wake up - but the memory fades in about 15 minutes.
• I love anything almond, coconut or cherry flavoured.
  
• I am attracted to the colour red. I will often buy things in this colour, which end up being very impractical.
• I am also attracted to shiny things.
• I am quite modest.
• I like to think my style is somewhat sophisticated.
• I don't buy things just because they are in fashion.
• I don't like body hair - on females.
• My eyes are almond shaped.
  
• I love sorbet, I do prefer it over ice cream.
• If I go to sleep angry, 90% of the time I wake up happy and over it. If I wake up and I am still mad - then you worry.
  
• I was born one month premature - which means I was meant to be a Scorpio. I sometimes feel I have Scorpio qualities locked inside me screaming to get out. It's a bit strange.
  
• I like researching personality types.
• I have never broken a bone.
• I only wear natural colours in make up.
  
• I like to acquire as much knowledge I can.
• I tend to procrastinate a lot.
• I try to further myself as a daughter, a girlfriend, a friend and a person every single day.
  
• Even though none of my piercings hurt, I was still terrified each time I went.
• I would rather swim with a shark than to swim with a school of tiny fish.
• I don't like it when insects are missing limbs, because it leads to the question "where is it?" Which totally freaks me out.
• I cannot stand ferrero rocher chocolate - you are just paying for nicely wrapped Nutella and a hazelnut.
• I rarely use "texting shorthand"... would it kill you to write the entire word? Especially when people write 'like' as 'Lyk'.
  
• I dislike the taste and smell of butter.
• I think some questions are better left unanswered.
• I don't understand birds in cages... they have wings for a reason.
• I love honey.
• I have to admit, I do sometimes buy things for the packaging.
• I will be going on my first plane trip to Melbourne in less than a week.
• My favorite holiday in Christmas.
• I don't really get excited about my birthday. That doesn't mean you can't make me excited.
• I have a natural ability to write. In grade 10 I scored highest in my class for writing an in depth description about a book.... I never even read.
• When I was young I had a slight obsession with Egypt.
• I also loved dogs. I am pretty sure if I was given the choice, I would have became a dog.
• I have owned rats as pets.
• I do not understand artificial banana flavour - it is absolutely disgusting.
  
• I wake up most days with either neck pain or a headache/migraine.
  
• My eyes change colour. Usually they are a yellow/gold/green colour in the light.
• I am pretty good at giving directions.
• I would love to visit other countries but have never wanted to move to another country. I like Australia.
• I don't find anyone but Aaron attractive - physically or emotionally.
• I love logic puzzles.
• I just can't do jigsaw puzzles.
• I am very much Anti-guns.
• My name means precious green gemstone.

2010 - A new year, a new blog.

Well I guess this is my first post.

 I was thinking last night and decided to start a fresh blog, though it doesn't really look any different, the content may differ from my old blog. I wanted a blog that started when I am this age. I am older, stronger, more opinionated and more in control of my life. I hope the change will encourage me to post more often during this year.

I am on the search for beauty, inspiration and anything that makes me smile. I hope to create a new post whenever I do.