Friday Finds.

\\  I saw and loved this pin yonks ago, but I recently found the Vogue shirt itself on eBay!  //

\\  How cute is this lights and photos decor? Perfect for a dorm room  //

\\ Oysters? No! Golden oyster shell trinket trays? Yes!  //

\\  How cute is this half-up crown hairstyle? Looks bad-ass from the back, to. Good old The Freckled Fox is my go-to hair tutorial blog nowadays.  //

\\ How cool is this kit? The old fashioned method of making of photos using the sun, modernised and printed on to canvas!

\\  Okay, so I'm not a lover of cake, but how pretty is this merangue dream cake?!  //

February Beauty Favourites.

Excuse me, 2015, kindly slow your ass down.
I can't believe February (and Summer) is over already!
No matterI. 'll be using mango scented products all year 'round!
Here are my accidental mango themed beauty favourites from February:

One: Matrix Biolage Sunsorials Sun Repair Treatment

It's been hot her over that past two months, and my poor hair has taken a beating; sun, salt, chlorine, and wind have taken their toll. This conditioning treatment is my favourite product from the Sunsorials range in terms of results. I use the treatment in conjunction with the after sun shampoo, which removes all that nasty salt and chlorine from the hair. Aside from the fact that these both smell uh-mazing, like tropical mangos (again, mango. Not soz), I'm left with soft, moisturised hair that's shiny and easily manageable. I also love the after sun spray- I take it to the beach with me and apply a spritz or two throughout the day. It instantly moisturises my salt crusted hair and is so very soothing on my fried-by-the-sun scalp.

Two: Avon's Silicone Glove Hand Cream

This is probably my favourite hand cream out. 've loved it since I can remember! I have a real problem with my hands: they feel annoyingly dry every time a drop of water touches them. This baby is formulated with silicone, which leaves my hands feeling so very soft, and actually gives them somewhat of a layer of protection, from then on, that dry feeling won't return no matter how many times I wash my hands. The scent, however, I'm not crazy about - it's pretty strong but I can definitely tolerate it considering the results it gives. AND it's so very inexpensive - Ka-ching!

Three: The Body Shop's Mango Shower Gel

How many times have I raved about mango anything from The Body Shop now?

30? 40 times? Regardless, I can't get enough of this scent! I've got their mango body butter, hand lotion, soap, and body scrub, and for Christmas, Jesse bought me a mango gift pack (he knows me so well) containing the shower gel and oh lawdy! I had the gel quite some time ago and of course used it all within a week because I was that in love. Using this baby again has made me realise how much I missed it! In my opinion, it's the best (read: strongest) smelling out of all their mango products and leaves my skin lightly scented all day.

Four: Natio's Tinted Moisturiser - SPF 20+

Over the Summer months, I found I'd been ditching the full face of foundation, and opting for this tinted moisturiser. It's one of the very few tinted formulas that doesn't irritate or oil up my sensitive skin. It's a light coverage tint for a fresh faced 'no make-up' look (Just be sure to apply powder on top to set the colour as I mean it when I say it's light coverage), all with the added goodness of sun protection. There's also a SPF 50+ offering for the same price, but that one seems to leave my face greasy. I've also been using this under my foundation during the night time, acting as a blur.

Five: Lush's Wiccy Magic Muscles Massage Bar

I was sceptical when I first picked up this bar, but I really love it and have bought three more since then. The beans in this bar provide a really nice massaging effect which feels SO GOOD on sore muscles. I used to use this on my calves and bad knee after a particularly hard game of netball, but since I was forced to quit, I now mostly use it on my lower back as hours of sitting at a desk have really taken their toll. I'll use it on my calves and feet every now and then as a treat. I use it after a shower so that my skin is warmer and melts the bar. The warming sensation of the ingredients is so good on knots, and the fact that it's also a great moisturiser, it's a win-win! You'll just need to buy a tin to store this in when not in use because it melts so damn fast! (I actually had to keep in in the fridge this month). I don't really like the smell of cinnamon, and it's quite a strong smell, to but I can deal with it if I don't use too much. I actually find it relaxing at night and helps soothe me to sleep.

The Beauty Scenario Tag.

Image via beautyandthings.com

 

I was tagged by that babe Natalie to do 'The Beauty Scenario Tag'.

Here we go:   You have to get rid of all of your foundations and only keep one high end and one drugstore, which do you keep? Hands down YSL's Youth Liberator Serum Foundation from the high end - So expensive. So good! From the drugstore, I'd keep Rimmel's Match Perfection Foundation.   You go for an interview and the lady interviewing you has lipstick on her teeth. Do you approach the subject or ignore it completely? OMG. Literally I can't. I wouldn't be able to tell her! Especially since I'm in an interview where I'm supposed to be sucking up the woman's ass, not pointing out something rather embarrassing. Hopefully she has nice coworkers to point it out later.. In the meantime, LOOK ANYWHERE BUT HER TEETH! ANYWHERE!   You're not feeling yourself and you need a pick-me-up lipstick, which do you go for? I love MAC's Toxic Tale! (Currently sold out- Boo!) Bright colours instantly pick me up, and this is such a lovely bright coral shade, without being too overpowering!   You go back in time for a day to your teenage years, how would you do your hair or makeup differently? It shames me to admit.. My look has hardly changed from high school to now. Eek. Maybe I'd take the time to actually research brands and such, though. It took me a long time to find the right products for me. My high school days were spent experimenting with products, using different brands and formulations each day, royally confusing the shit out of my skin..   You ask your hairdresser for a shoulder length Pixie Lott hair cut but they hear wrong and give you a pixie cut, what do you do? A) Smile, say thank you, call your mum and cry hysterically B) Cry in the chair and things get awkward C) Complain to the manager and demand a refund   A.

Maaaatttttteeee. This is why I trained to be able cut my own hair..
I'd be absolutely crushed inside. My hair is SO slow growing (21 years and it's only just above my breasts), but I'd go home and cry over a tub of icecream before I made the hairdresser feel bad.

 

Your friend surprises you with a 4 day city break and you have one hour to pack, which 'Do It All' palette do you pack in your makeup bag?

Too Faced's Chocolate palette fo' sho'. We all know I love me a smoky eye, and this palette is so versatile! There's the option of soft browns and nudes for the day, and darker browns and purples for a night time look; too easy.   Your house has been robbed! Don't worry everyone is safe, but your beauty stash has been raided. What's the product you really hope is safe? Anything high end, or bought online from the States. Being Australian ain't cheap, yo. We don't really stock all these wonderful brands BBloggers rave about! I should really be thankful though, I mean, considering all my makeup is located next to my TV, DVD player and MacBook...   Your friend borrows makeup and returns it in an awful condition. Do you: A) Pretend you haven't noticed B) Ask them to re-purchase it C) Secretly do it back to their makeup A.. But, if it's reeeaaallllyyy messed up, I'd definitely let her know, but that's as far as I'd go with it. No point in ruining a friendship over makeup. She won't be borrowing anything again, though. No Sir-ee.     Thanks for the tag, Natalie! I had fun!   I tag these lovelies: Anna from Anna Blush Tasha from Shiwashiful Jen from Knots and Ruffles Rachel from Pillarbox Post

 

 

Friday Finds.

Here's what I've found (and loved) this past week:

\\  I'm loving matte nails lately, and this nail art is perfect for Autumn.  //
\\  How tasty does this pumpkin bowtie pasta with sage butter sound?  //

\\  This DIY grapefruit sugar scrub looks pretty enough to eat!  //
\\  If I weren't so unco, I'd attempt this rainbow liner tutorial; So pretty!  //

\\  When my phone get upgraded in a few months, I'm getting me this burn book phone case!  //
\\  I don't care if they're over $1,000; I will have these bow sandals!  //

Happy Friday, yo.

February BellaBox Unboxing.

Guys, BellaBox is getting all fancy-like with their boxes, and just I don't know how I feel about that. What was wrong with the classic blue and white polka-dot boxes, BellaBox? Why do you feel the need to confuse me with cardboard folded in to fancy little envelope boxes?

Anyways, this month was s box tributed to Cosmopolitan's 500th issue. Seeming as I love me some Cosmo, and included was a copy of said 500th issue, this was alright by me and I was pleased for the most part of the contents of the weird envelope box.

Here's what I got in my "Beauty School" box:

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion

I LOVE THIS DAMN LOTION!
I've used up about three sample sized bottles of this lotion in the past six months. I was so thrilled to have another one as I've just finished the one I have on my work desk. I haven't gotten around to buying myself a full sized bottle, only because I've already got that many lotions cluttering my vanity. Once I've used most of them up, I'll be grabbing myself a bottle of this badboy. It's such a nice formula, and doesn't irritate my sensitive skin. I have used it on my face a couple of times and I do feel it's gentle enough to do so, but I mostly just stick to rubbing it on my hands, arms and legs. It claims to be fragrance free, but it does have a faint smell. Not a chemically one, a natural, clean one. It reminds me of wheat and oatmeal. The formula is quickly absorbed in to the skin without leaving that sticky/slimy residue, instead, leaving my skin feeling soft and nourished.
RRP: $14.99


ChapStick Natural Pawpaw Lip Balm

I've been running low on lip balms so this was a welcome addition.

We all know how effective ChapStick's line is, so I won't get too in to it. Pawpaw's a super nourishing ingredient, so the addition of a pawpaw balm to the range was a good move, ChapStick. Good move, indeed.

RRP: $4.99

Original Source Shower Mint & Tea Tree

 Vegan friendly = Christie's tick of approval.
I've never heard of this brand, but that packaging's pretty rad. I've not used it yet, but I feel it'd be an ideal body wash to use in the morning to really wake you up, but could still be refreshing after a long day. The full sized bottle claims to pack 7,927 (so very specific) real mint leaves in to each bottle.. Which is cool. I honestly was expecting a scent that was overpoweringly strong. Yes, it smelly quite minty, but it still manages to be pleasant.
RRP: $3.99


Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

 I've not had much luck with Neutrogena products on my face, so I'm a bit nervous about using this one. It claims to release moisture continuously all day for that nourished glow. It sounds good in theory as my face is always so damn dry, I'm just worried that although it may moisturise my skin, it may go too far and leave it oily. I can just hear mum saying her famous "Don't be judging a book by it's cover, Christie", so I'll give this a go anyways.. Review pending.
RRP: $14.99


Essie Nail Colour

 Oh Essie. I love you!
Essie is by far my favourite nail polish brand, but rarely will I buy it. $16 for one bottle of (not even gel) nail polish is a bit extreme for budget-friendly me. This box did contain a voucher for $6 off my Essie purchase at Priceline, however so maybe I'll treat myself. The colour I received was from their Summer range, a lovely ocean blue.


Sk'in Organics Skincare Regime - Oily or Combination Skin

 The fact that BellaBox makes you take a beauty quiz before you sign up was the reason I chose BellaBox as my subscription box for the year, and it's paying off every month as they tailor each box to your skincare needs. As I answered I have oily/combination skin, I got sent these particular sample sachets. I probably won't use the line smoothing serum, mum can have that, but I'll definitely be using the cleansing gel and rebalancing lotion. As this was a bonus product, I was quite impressed with the product quality; Usually I feel as though they just chuck a random something extra in the boxes as a 'bonus'. Upping the game, guys. Upping the game.
RRP: Gel Cleanser - $29.95
Rebalancing Lotion - $44.95
Line Smoothing Serum - $59.95


All in all, I enjoyed mulling over this month's box, Cosmopolitan magazine in hand and was pleased with the products I received. As next month will be Autumn, I'm looking forward to (hopefully) different types of products to try!

Avocado, Spinach and Fried Egg Breakfast Sandwich.

Avocado.

I've hated avocado all my life. They're green, they're mushy, they just creeped me the fuck out..

..Until about a month ago.
 

I don't know what changed, but now I'm eating avocado pretty much every day.

I've been having it in salads and wraps, in sandwiches and on toast, but my all time favourite way to eat avocado lately is in this (healthy!) breakfast sandwich. It's super easy to whip up in less than 10 minutes, it's good for you, it keeps you feeling full, and most importantly, tastes amazing!
..'cause let's face it, that's all I really care about anyways.

 All you need is:

• Two slices of bread; Any bread. I use multigrain but go for your life.
• Half a ripe avocado; A whole avocado will make two sandwiches. If you're particularly peckish, just double all other ingredients.
• A large handful of fresh spinach.
• 1 egg.
• 1 teaspoon of butter. Oil or even water is fine if you're a healthy little thing.
• 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped for those who like to party.
• Salt & pepper to taste.

The beauty of this recipe is it's simplicity (we all know how lazy I am).

 Start off by lightly toasting your bread. Woah, slow down there, sista.

 

While your bread is getting all toasty, heat 1 teaspoon of butter in a frying pan.

Once melted, fry your garlic on low heat until tender and fragrant. You can skip this step if you're lame if you're not as in love with garlic as I am. Once your garlic ready, place your spinach in the pan and coat with that delicious buttery garlic-ness. Leave until wilted.

 

While your spinach is cooking away, scoop the inside of your avocado out and in to a bowl where you'll smoosh that bad boy, guacamole style.
Did I mention this recipe was therapeutic? Work out all dat anger, girl.

I like to add salt to the avocado before I smash it all up because I have an incredibly unhealthy salt addiction, but each to their own.

By the time you've made your guacamole, your toast should be ready and your spinach wilted.

Spread your guacamole over both pieces of your toast like you would butter and lay your spinach on top of one of those slices. This'll be the bottom of your orgasm sandwich.

 

The frying pan you used to cook your spinach should still have some buttery goodness in it.
Turn up the heat and fry your egg to your preference - I like me some runny, sunny side up action, but cook it however you please.
Add salt and pepper if you're looking for a good time and place on top of your spinach bed once it's done.
 

 

Put the lid on your creation and hey presto, you've got yourself a healthy breakfast.

 

 It's really that easy, and a great way to start your day.
I make this every Saturday and then again most Sundays, I love it that much.

I love posting recipes and I hope to post more in the future.
Give this one a go and let me know what you think!

This is a Sensitive Subject.

I don't know how many times I've posted about how sensitive my skin is now, but I'd say we're on at least post number 12 so you know the drill by now: water dries me out, moisturiser oils me up.. I itch, I flake, and as you can imagine, I look damn fiiine whilst doing so..

I know how incredibly common sensitive skin is so I know I'm not alone.
So many things are responsible for sensitive skin it can be almost impossible to narrow down, but I've learned that sensitive skin can easily be dealt with and greatly alleviated with the right kind of daily care and I like to think that over the years, I have somewhat perfected a routine that works for me.

Now before I go on, I am certainly no dermatologist so whenever I have a concern, query, or just need more information I consult this sensitive skin guide* bad boy. Yup, Simple Skincare have compiled a bible of everything you need to know about sensitive skin. Seriously. I've had this guide bookmarked for as long as I can remember and it has been my saviour on many occasions.

These are my top tips for dealing with sensitive skin:

Avoid:

I try my darndest to avoid any products with detergents, alcohols, acids and retinols all of which are too strong for my skin. I avoid synthetic fragrances like they're the plague as my skin gets incredibly irritated by all the fake ickiness. I'll also limit the amount of times I'll use a rough scrub or and exfoliant (1-2 times a month), which further degrade the skin's barrier.

Skin test new products

When on the search for a new skincare product, I'll conduct a skin test before buying. I put a small amount on my skin (from a tester bottle, obvs), for 48 hours to see any reaction.

Moisturise
Having a healthy skin care regime is important for all skin types, but it's paramount that us sensitive skinned gals moisturise daily, since deep moisture is so, so important for restoring the balance of sensitive skin.
It took me a while to find a moisturiser that worked for me, but once I did.. sweet relief; provided I don't use too much that is..
Use an oil-free, lightweight moisturiser that suits your skin, preferably organic.
I use Natural Instinct Daily Moisturiser.

Watch what you eat

Some foods may react adversely on your skin and increase the sensitivity and we all know that healthy eating habits flush out toxins and give you glowing skin; You are what you eat.
Drink lots of water and fresh juices to keep your skin hydrated. This is the most important of beauty tips for sensitive skin.

Wash your face

Always! Especially before bed; it's common sense, really. Not only does it hydrate your skin, but also helps to clean out impurities that might be clogging your pores. You should be careful to properly remove all traces of makeup at the end of each day; any buildup or residue can cause irritation when left overnight.
Now, I'm guilty of having too good of a night out, and pouring myself in to bed at some stupid time in the morning without wiping off what's left of my make-up so, I keep a pack of facial wipes at my bed side. Now no matter the state I'm in, I'm still be able to at least run one over my face before I pass out.

Choose Make-up carefully

Although it's not so much make-up that flares up my sensitivity, rather than skin care products, I still always choose cosmetics that are fragrance free and I try to look for 'no artificial colours' stamped on the label.

Speaking of Make-Up, Minerals are your friend

When it comes to makeup, most dermatologists will point you in the direction of mineral-based formulas, as they tend to be protective and healing for the skin.
But you still have to be on the look out for even natural ingredients and byproducts that might cause irritation, redness, facial eczema or itchiness.

Use a mild cleanser

I stay away from soaps and face washes that contain harsh chemicals and preservatives. Instead, I opt for a natural, hypoallergenic face wash that's gentle on the skin.
I use Natural Instinct Foaming Cleanser

Gentle Toner

I try to avoid using alcohol toners as much as I can. Although surprisingly, my skin doesn't react too badly, the result I get when I dab fresh rose water over my skin instead are much better.

I hope these tips help anyone suffering from sensitive skin!
Do you have any tips yourself?


*I was offered compensation for mentioning Simple Skincare's sensitive skin guide, but all opinions are 100% my own. I do not endorse products or brands I do not support or believe in.

Friday Finds.

Here's all I've found and loved this past week:

\\  I don't mean to alarm you, but here's a double-stuffed Oreo jello shot recipe which includes the alcohols. I've died a beautiful death.  //
\\  How cute is this funfetti candle? I love me an easy DIY project.  //
\\  Nutella oatmeal smoothie.. Sounds so simple, looks so delicious!  //

\\  How sweet is this plaid nail art? I saw this video tutorial and thought I'd be cute for Valentines Day.. Then I remembered I'm too unco.  //
\\  I know I shouldn't, but I've been looking at pastel pink hair a lot lately. Maybe I could get away with something muted like this?  //

\\  I'm getting too excited about layered plaid outfits for Autumn.  //

Happy Friday, kids!

Silly Valentines Cards.

Now, if y'all know anything about me, it's that I'm basically one giant awkward turtle, especially when it comes to expressing how I feel about another human being because feelings are gross.
It's safe to day I'm not the best at Valentines Day-ing, but with it just around the corner, I thought I'd share with you a few cards that are on the silly side but still show you're thinking of that special someone.

You're welcome, fellow turtles.

Cockroach card // Dobby & Socks card // In Public card // Your Eyes card

Optimus Fine card // I Tolerate You card // Unicorn Enchilada card

Kanye & Kanye card // Shit, Bitch card

Valentines Day Gift Guide for Him.

Unless you live under a rock, you've surely been bombarded with heart-shaped boxes, flowers in all shades of pink and red, jewellery sales galore; Yup. Valentines Day is only four days away.


If you haven't even started your Valentines shopping yet (because let's face it: buying for a boy is freakin' hard!), never fear! The online word is here to help. I mean, really help. I think this past week, I've seen a good 30+ VDay gift guides so what's one more? Mine's better anyways.
 
I kid, I kid.
Here's my list of top presents to buy for your boyfriend, dad, brother, friend or any other male in your life on February 14:

 

 

Lynx hair products*
An easy (and cheap) gift for the dude who spends more time in the mirror than you do. Trust me when I say these hair gels and sprays all smell amazing - Bonus!

Gold Class movie tickets
A gift AND a date all in one. It's like the movies, only fancy!
Sidenote: Christie's going to see 50 Shades of Grey in Gold Class this Valentines Day. Yusss. ;)

XBox Live membership voucher
Or an Xbox if you're feeling generous.
Whether you get him a 3 month, or a 12 month membership, you're basically guaranteed to be the best girlfriend in the world in his eyes.

Cologne. My favourite is Diesel's 'Only the Brave'
I love me a man wearing a  good cologne. Sah sexayyyyy.

Skull iPhone dock
THIS! I'd actually buy this bad boy for myself it's that rad. It's one of those fun, quirky gifts he's guaranteed to love, just because it looks cool.

Calvin Klein underwear
Yum. That's all I have to say.

The Hungover Cookbook
This is more so for students.. but it's one of those gifts you buy with intention of being a little silly, but that he ends up using quite regularly.. Or you force him to use when wake up after a girls night out.

The Worst Case Scenario Handbook
Another silly gift. Providing frightening and funny real information.. Because you never know.

Citizen Watch
Scientifically proven fact: dudes love watches.
Statement may or may not have any scientific proof behind it.


I hope this helps you last minute gift buyers.
Whatever you do, whoever you spend it with, have a wonderful Valentines Day!




* I was compensated by Lynx to include their product in this post, but all opinions are 100% my own.

Thoughts on Valentine's Day.

I'm going to say something right now, and you're either going to throw whatever you're reading this on out of a high window, or you're going to fly away with those creepy-ass love heart eyes before melting in to a puddle of moosh..

Valentine's Day.

I am personally somewhat on the fence about it all.
 

I mean, I'm grateful to be living in a world filled with so much love, I really am, and whether you're single, taken, or anywhere in between, any good reason to celebrate love has always been okay by me just so long as it's genuine.



The thing that irks me about Valentine's Day is people spending money on gifts for their significant other that don't really mean anything other than "I bought you this because I thought I had to". I've always thought that if you love somebody, you should show it every day, not just once a year because it's convention. I find it rather silly to need to have a day to remind you to show someone how much they mean to you.



I may be somewhat bias, however. Jesse makes me feel so incredibly loved, and so very special every day of the year, and we're always going on little dates and having nice dinners, so I could probably live without a dedicated day but if I was with someone who isn't as open about his feelings and doing romantic things on the daily, yeah, I can definitely see the appeal.

Regardless of your feelings towards the day, I think a woman can appreciate a man acting as if Valentine's Day was the most important day of the year. Whether he meant it or not, he should know that a woman would appreciate the kind gestures and thought he put in to planning out a day to make her feel special. Pretend you don't care all you want, if it gets to Valentine's Day and he's put zero effort in to even finding you a card, you're going to die a little inside. I know I would.

Other than insincere notions, the thing I can't even deal with is the haters. My irritation isn't directed at the singles who dread February 14. After all, it's a big ol' reminder that they don't have a partner and if you're single and unhappy about it, of course it's upsetting to see all dem celebrations of love. No, I'm talking about those opinionated loud mouths. They're the ones who really irk me. I'm fine with those who see the holiday as a fake celebration, crammed down our throats by corporations, if that's how you feel, then fine. At times, I tend to agree. But it's the people who very loudly, and repeatedly express their disgust for the day, make people feel stupid for enjoying it, publically posting hate about how shallow people are, and what suckers everyone is for wasting their money..

Images via The Oatmeal

..Stahp. Just stahp.

The point (about time, Christie) behind my rambling is this:
Love Valentines Day? Good, have a great day. Hate it? Fine, have a great day. Don't give a shit either way? Okay, have a great day.

If you don't like Valentines Day, then fine, but if it really does mean so little to you, I kindly invite you to shut the fuck up and just treat it like any other day. Leave those who love it to do their thing without fear of judgement and embarrassment.

Just go on ahead, be quiet and have a sexy adventure on Feb 14..
..with someone who smells nice.
 

Less complaining.

More sexy adventures.
Everyone wins.