why not BE YOURSELF

It can be hard to be yourself in such a judgemental world. But why be anyone one else you have entered this world to be yourself so take the challenge and be the best person you can be by being YOU. Too often than not we can look at others and envy their lifestyle, looks or ability to achieve their goals, There is no need for envy if you want something then go for it. Just be yourself and go for everything you want out of life. I have encouraged my daughters to be themselves and to never take on board what others think or say. It does not always work but it is a stepping stone for them to consider as their life progresses from teenagers into adults.

Take the time and work out who you really are and be the person you want to be. Listen to others opinion and consider the options but do not be swayed by their judgement if you do not whole heartedly agree. 

Trust yourself with your thoughts and progress to be the person you want to be.

Find your contentment that cannot be taken away and enjoy it.

When you learn to be yourself you become more courageous and learn to feel comfortable in your own skin.

Everyone has something that they love and are good at. Take that something and let it shine.

Cherish the people in your life who love you for you and do not want or wish you to be like this person or that.

Revel in the success that is truly yours. Strive and work hard for that goal that is coming your way. 

Follow your intuition. If something does not dell right then 9 times out of ten it is not.

If you understand your feelings then you are more in tune to who you really are and you come across confident and the real you emerges.

Accept your flaws and the mistakes you have made. No-one is perfect and we all make mistakes - you just need to own them.

Be gentle on yourself ALWAYS.

React calmly in stressful or hard to cope with situations. (This is something I need to improve on).

Take the tome and be in tune to who you really are and go forth to SHINE LIKE THE STAR THAT YOU ARE.

Enjoy your Wednesday. x

do what you love LOVE WHAT YOU DO

I have actually just used this quote as life is to be lived. Turn that hidden passion into reality and follow your dreams. Everyone has a dream and all dreams can be achieved through working hard and pursuing what you want. I am currently pursuing my dream of my own online children's boutique and loving it. I have worked on and off in retail most of my working life and to work for myself is the best thing I could have ever done. So why not take the time to pursue your dream. Here are some tips I found on positively present. What have you always wanted to do but do not have the courage to do so?

Figure out what you love

We often think we love something, but it's not until you're doing it every single day do you realize how you really feel about something. Whatever you're passionate about, make sure you love it so much that you couldn't live without it. Make sure that you could do it every day—live, breathe, and sleep it—before you consider turning it into a career. I've learned that making a career out of a passion changes the way you see it. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it's something to be aware of. Be certain that what you're passionate about it's a passing phase and ask yourself these questions: Could I do this for the rest of my life? Would I do this every day even if no one paid me to do it? When I'm doing it, do I feel alive and excited? Do I want to do it as much as I can, whenever I can? 

Do your research

When it comes to turning your passion into a career, you've got to know what you're getting into. Do as much research as you can: on the industry you're interested in, on the taxes you'll be responsible for, on issues like health care and additional financial needs. All of that stuff might sound boring to you (I know how you feel!), but when you start doing your research, you'll see just how much goes into pursuing a passion full-time. If, after doing all of your research, you feel overwhelmed and exhausted, you're not alone. But if, after all that, you still want to go after what you love, you know that it's something that really matters to you. Research helps to put it all in perspective and it's a great way to find out how committed you truly are to what you're passionate about.  

Connect with people

Passionate people, that is. The more you connect with those who are passion about what they do, the more insight and inspiration you'll get. You don't even have to connect with people in your future industry (though that's always a nice bonus!). Just find people who really, truly love what they do and ask them how they got to where they are. Ask for advice. Ask for help. Even if you're launching into a solo passion, like writing, you still need the help of other people to get you where you want to go. Don't be afraid to reach out to people (even those you don't know!) and seek inspiration. The more you surround yourself with passionate people, those who love what they do, the more motivated and inspired you'll be. 

Map out a route

At some point, you have to put the passion on paper—and the best way to get started is by mapping out a route. Imagine it as a journey from Point A to Point B. Here you are the beginning, still doing something you don't love and longing to get to a place where you can do what you're passionate about. How are you going to get to Point B, that place where you can do what you love as a career? You have to create a plan. Break everything down into small steps—your financial needs and goals, your business ideas and dreams—and set a timeline for everything. You may find yourself deviating from the plan, but as long a you keep moving in the direction of your ultimate goal, you will inevitably arrive there. Just keep going. 

in memory of ANTONELLA

In memory of Antonella - Today we say farewell to - A lovely lady, wife and mother. No post today as I would like to dedicate to a special lady who was taken too soon. May she rest in eternal peace. 

happy SUNDAY

inside JESSICA ALBA'S BEVERLY HILLS HOME

InStyle

loving this SYDNEY APARTMENT

I love this little nook with a fabulous view. A great place to work. - The Design Files

parisian chic THE NAVY SWEATER

There is something this season that I love most and that is the navy sweater. I just love the colour with white and a striped shirt underneath. I have always love the look of the shirt showing below the knit. I actually spotted a lady while shopping out last week with a white shirt and a yellow sweater. She looked fabulous. 

According to Ines de la Fressange and her book 'Parisian Chic', the essential look should be clean cut but not too straight laced. Navy sweater just seems more sophisticated than a black sweater. 

Classic ways to style is to co-ordiante with

- white jeans. 

- black pants, 'in honour of Yves Saint Laurent's chic colour combinations. 

- flat shoes for that 'easy cool' look.

- heels and a bunch of bangles for evening.

get the look NINA PROUDMAN

Although Nina looked great (as always) in several of her style choices last night there was on that really stood out for me and that was the on with the fabulous striped maxi skirt (we are tango) from shop binny. I just have to have this great skirt.

Cami | White Shirt | Binny Skirt | Vasarino Bag | Scarf

4 foods for A LONGER LIFE

We all would like to live longer, don't we? Well I know I do and I plan on doing everything I can to make that happen. Here are four foods to help with a longer life as stated in Prevention Magazine.

According to the magazine and health experts they say that good health is not restrictive to diet or a strict exercise regime. It could be as simple as sipping your latte or sprinkling berries on your cereal. Free radical fighting super foods are one of the best ways to longevity.

Coffee - Besides giving you an energy boost coffee (caffeinated or decaffeinated is packed with polyphenols. Polyphenols are antioxidants from plant foods that work in the body to enhance health in complex ways, and as such they are not simply antioxidants. Drinking coffee daily has been associated with a lowered mortality risk connected with cardiovascular disease or diabetes.

Cranberries - Have phytochemical antioxidants may have antimicrobial , which means they they protect you from infections. They can also reduce the risk of plaque build up in the arteries and help prevent the growth of certain cancers.

Grapefruit - The antioxidant found in this citrus fruit all be it bitter could help treat diabetes.

Garlic - Garlic can lower blood pressure thanks to its high level of allicin. Garlic can also help prevent certain cancers and reduce bad cholesterol levels in the bloodstream which in turn can lower your risk of heart disease.

inspired by the French farmhouse style COASTAL HOME

I love the light and airy feel of this home with the added touches of vintage pieces throughout. - 79 ideas

losing SOMEONE SPECIAL

Today my heart is heavy, so heavy, our school community has lost a lovely lady who was always so gentle caring and loving. A mother to two lovely boys at the peak of their teenage years. I feel for those boys and her husband so much that now they have to live with out this beautiful Mother, Wife and friend in their lives. Although I have not seen her for awhile and I was saddened to learn last year that she had cancer and was doing all her best to fight this horrible disease. I remember so many wonderful conversations we had and her one day commenting that she wanted a make over and my reply was you are beautiful 'just the way you are'. I miss the thought of knowing that she will not be around and that I will never see her again. Most importantly her family on dealing with losing someone so special and wonderful. I just cannot stop thinking about her boys and how they now have to live without their mother. 

Just like last year I am having an online auction for the Biggest Morning Tea  but this year I would like to make this one in honour of Antonella, a beautiful, loving and vibrant member of our community who passed away on Sunday the 9th of June. If you would like to donate for the auction please email me at shoppegirls@bigpond.com. If you like you can also make a donation at my Biggest Morning Tea page.

how to WINTER PROOF YOUR SKIN

Change your beauty products to suit the weather: A glowing complexion can be hard to maintain in the winter months. The reason? “Cold air lacks moisture, while wind further dehydrates.”  “Dehydration works like the sun – it can cause the same DNA damage, leading to wrinkles and hyper-pigmentation.” Think of your beauty regimen a little like going to the gym. Come the icy weather, this means establishing a gentle and regular care routine boosted with treatments designed to improve your barrier function. “You can even layer your moisturisers for added hydration and to combat environmental exposure.” 

Moisturise at least twice a day: It’s essential that you follow your cold-weather regimen both morning and evening for best results.  “Clinical observation shows that applying moisturiser at least twice a day is optimal as the skin is a very busy organ - over 12 hours there has been enough activity to need more hydration. Combine that with make-up, perspiration, dirt and environmental pollution and you need to clean it all off and start fresh."

Cleansing is just as important in winter: Commence with a calming cleanser and toner combination, built to prepare your complexion without stripping. You’ll also need a barrier-boosting moisturiser, pivotal to protecting your face in winter. 

Add another layer: Once you’ve established these basics, consider adding targeted moisture boosters, too. Introduce a hydrating serum to combat wintry elements from beneath your moisturiser, and enlist a weekly cream mask to fight dehydration. 

Combat seasonal flareups: Despite the most diligent regimen, seasonal flare-ups can happen. Combine cold weather with stress, travel, even changes in diet and you might suddenly find yourself suffering. “Signs of a compromised skin barrier can include redness, sensitivity to touch, dryness, flakiness or discomfort.”  “If you notice these problems, stop what you’re doing.” He suggests that temporarily simplifying your program is the best way to work out what’s irritating you.

Don’t neglect your body: Trapped under tights and swaddled in sweaters, you might think your limbs are out of danger when it comes to seasonal dryness. Be warned: they’re just as likely to succumb as your face. Hot baths and showers combined with central heating can sap your body of much-needed moisture. The same face care principles are true for the body, especially legs and arms. Hydrated skin can better withstand the environment, whereas dry skin is much more fragile. He adds that it’s essential to remember the body’s immune system reaches right up into the skin, which is why maintaining a healthy barrier function from top to toe is so important.

Gentle Exfoliation is key: If your legs are looking flaky, it can be tempting to work them over with a grainy scrub. Don’t. Abrasive textures make matters worse. Instead, employ a creamy exfoliant enriched with oils and buff it on gently to remove scales and boost glow. Twice weekly in winter is enough.

Treat your body with moisture: You’ll also need stock up on rich body treatments designed not only to moisturise but to create a protective layer on the surface of your skin. Once hydrated, you want to keep those hydrating elements in the skin. Apply liberally, and religiously, after bathing.

Diet and exercise count too: While a winter-ready beauty routine is key for staying smooth, you’ll need to address what you’re putting into your body, too. “Diet, exercise and hydration are key. You need a good care regimen combined with regular workouts at the gym, good nutrition, and to limit excessive alcohol consumption and avoid smoking – both of which are very dehydrating for the skin. Be holistic about your skincare and remember that beauty is more than skin deep: what’s below your skin – the muscles and bones – need to be kept healthy, too.

Up your water intake: When it’s cold, be diligent about consuming around two litres of water daily to maintain moisture levels. You can also consume essential fatty acids to increase suppleness and address dehydration. Ocean fish, chia and flax seeds and walnuts are smart sources.

marie claire

simplify the DAILY ROUTINE

Here is a fabulous post to get you motivated for the beginning of the week from the lovely Shannon ~ The Simply Luxurious Life.

Daily Routines

Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Being well rested is the key to maintaining high energy, reducing weight, beautiful skin and keeping a clear mind. Even on the weekends, while it may sound absurd, do your best to stay within your routine.  When your body is tired, it will speak to you. Listen to it and each day will go much more smoothly allowing you to be better prepared for those unexpected moments that you hadn’t planned.

Clean the dishes before going to bed. Since you know you’ll be eating breakfast in your kitchen the next morning, leave it ready-to-go by loading and washing the dishwasher, placing leftovers in the proper containers and wiping off the countertops. It will save you time in the morning and eliminate the dread of having to clean it in the morning.

Have a breakfast routine. It may sound dull, but during the work week stick to simple, healthy breakfast menus. Especially if you have children, don’t offer them an endless list. Stick to one or two options that will provide them the necessary energy they need throughout the day and run with it each day of the work week.  Save the weekends for special family breakfasts with bacon, French toast or whatever your preference may be. 

Make the bed. It takes less than five minutes, and it is the most welcoming sight to come home to after a long day when all you have energy left for is the extra step to turn down the sheets. 

Pick up the house every night. After brushing your teeth, putting the dogs and/or kids to bed, cleaning up the kitchen, do a quick run-through of your house.  Place anything left laying around in its designated spot – newspapers, toys, blankets, shoes, clothes, electronic devices, etc. This not only will same you time in the morning when you’re looking for anything in particular, but it will eliminate the time that potentially could have built up had you continually left everything out night after night.  And who doesn’t want to wake up to a tidy home? There is something helpful and energetic about starting the day with one or two less chores to do.

Walk the dogs on a set schedule. Consistency, consistency, consistency.  Especially if you have a puppy, but regardless of how old your furry family member is, stick to a regular walking schedule. They will sleep better as will you.

Leave the bathroom clean. Whether you are the only one using your bathroom or you share it with others, make sure there is a home for toothbrushes, beauty supplies and styling tools. When you have finished your daily cleansing and beauty routine, return everything to its spot. And even better, wipe off the countertops with a disposable wipe. This will reduce bacteria and create an inviting environment for yourself and family as well as any guests that may stop by throughout the day.

Designate a place for incoming mail/bills/magazines/etc. What I’ve come to realise is that the most important business we all run is our own lives.  Think about it. If we organise our lives well, we are happier, more content and less stressed; thus, the opportunity to be more productive and drive more income into our pockets. However, on the flip side if we are unorganised, frazzled and drained, we lose opportunities to be productive, thus lessening potential income. With this in mind, create a home office with an inbox that ensures you will deal with incoming mail in a timely manner. 

Charge electronic devices at night or at the same time each day. Knowing your phone is on its last legs and the lunch hasn’t even occurred yet is not a good situation to be in. Get into the habit of charging your phone, laptop, iPad and any other electronic devices at night or at a designated time to be certain that the technology you depend on to run your life effectively is charged and ready to go.

A regular beauty routine. There will always be special occasions when our beauty routines become a bit more elaborate, but for the regular work day, create a routine that is simple and leaves you looking and feeling your best. For example, moisturise your entire body, wash your face with a gentle cleanser, apply moisturiser, concealor, SPF tinted moisturiser, blush, a dash of eyebrow color, a simple neutral base to your eyelids, eye-liner, a bit of shadow and smudge-proof mascara. Finish with some deodorant and your favorite perfume, and voila!

a villa in MARBELLA SPAIN

Take me there please - a lovely quaint villa in Marbella Spain. Dustjacket Attic

4 ways to A GREAT START TO YOUR WEEK

We have an extra day to get ready for our week as it is a long weekend here in Australia. My daughter's only have a 3 day week this week as Friday is a reflection day for the teacher's so an added bonus for them and me too as I get to have them home and extra day. Yay!

There are a few regular things you should do to help make the transition into Monday as productive and successful as possible. On the weekend......

Use the Weekend as a SpringboardThere are a few regular things you should do to help make the transition into Monday as productive and successful as possible. On the weekend......

Check off the To-Dos

There are usually errands that can’t be completed during the week that begin to pile up just waiting to be dealt with when Saturday arrives.  Take the time to group them all together and complete them on Saturday rather than Sunday so that you aren’t burdening yourself with the reminder all weekend of this nagging task.

Stay on Schedule

With regards to your body, try to sleep 6-8 hours as well as staying as close to your “to bed” and “to rise” times as well. Adhering to the same times as best as possible keeps your body in a rhythm, so that when Monday arrives, waking up at five, six or seven, isn’t a shock.

Relax

Scheduling time to relax is a must.  After all, unwinding and getting lost in activities we love is what the weekends are for.  In order to perform our best during the week, we must strike a balance and rejuvenate over the weekend.

Don’t Overbook

Simply because everything you have planned for the weekend involves activities and people you love, be diligent about not overbooking yourself which may potentially cause you to see the week as more of a respite than the two day weekend.  Be savvy with your energy levels and time.  After all, we only have so much to give and use.

A Moment to Plan

Call me crazy, but this is something that I look forward to during my Sunday afternoons. Carving out time to sit down with my planner and look at the week in front of me, prepares me for what I have to accomplish and reminds me that getting a good night’s sleep is imperative if I’m going to function at my best. This is also a great time to plan the week’s meals, create a grocery list and make sure all of the clothes you will need are washed, laundered and ready to be worn.

• Plan weekly meals
• Grocery Shop
• Laundry – ironing, dry cleaners, etc

A Workout is a Must

Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project, made a simple suggestion for a happier week that until I had read was something I never considered, but at the same time, wondered why I hadn’t thought of it earlier.  Always workout on Monday. Why? Beginning the week by checking one workout off your list immediately as the week begins and taking the time to take of your body is sure to have a positive effect on your energy levels and mood.

Tackle the Tough First
When you get to work, choose to complete a task that will bring great relief when it is successfully put to bed.  Knowing you have been quite productive early in the week provides inspiration and lifts your confidence as you proceed through the week, ultimately setting a positive tone.

A Good Night’s Sleep
I know this is mentioned at the beginning of the post, but because of its importance, it’s worth repeating.  Go to bed at a decent time, so that when that alarm clock begins to sing, you are capable of starting the day out on the right foot.

With these simple tips, Monday no longer has to be a day to dread, but instead can become a day to ground us and begin the week on a very good note. - The Simply Luxurious Life 

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