Bangers.

Things have been a little quiet around here because life is busy. 

But not so busy that I haven't checked in here now and then to sigh at the fact I haven't posted for a couple of weeks. 

Tumbleweeds have breezed through. Sandstorms have covered the keyboard. Crickets have moved in. 

In breaking news I got my hair cut, which has been a long time coming (seven months in fact, no wonder the ends were crispy as twigs). I got a fringe. Or bangs. Whatever you want to call - them - I got them. And I bought a new hairbrush too. Evo has released a new collection of brushes and combs. I am pretty excited by this new purchase! Clearly I am easily excited.

Other good news? The weather is warming up which means I can move into short sleeves. I've loathed Winter this year. So bring on the sunshine fellas!

And I've been cracking out my Victoria Mason 'Enfold' necklace. Vic gifted me this necklace, and it is a firm favourite. I have the matching earrings too - and it's such a cool combo when worn all at once, and individually they're ace too. I love the nod to the 70s, in a current and contemporary style.

I've been reading too. Hopefully later this week I'll finish my latest and can share a short review. 

Oh and... Frocktober is on the horizon. EEP!

Stay tuned. I do want to come back. But my eyeballs are just so tired these days. 

A little while ago...

The Hen Men from meerkatfilms on Vimeo.


I was driving to work, it was rainy and cold and the bleakest of bleak days. 

It was an ordinary day - until I spotted an elderly man, leaning hard on a sign post, waving. I thought his car must have broken down, so I slowed right down, drove on, and then continued thinking about him. I quickly did a block, came back, pressed my hazard lights on and pulled over to him. Winding down the window my mind was racing:

Who was this man? 
Why did he have dirt on his back? Leaves? 
Where was he heading?
And why had no one else stopped?

In the moments it took me to decide to drive back to him, I had thought - if this was my grandfather, or my father, I would hope someone would pull over and help. 

I called out and we had a conversation - from which I determined that maybe he had dementia. 

My beautiful grandmother had lived with dementia. I was familiar with what dementia does to the mind and the behaviour of those with dementia. 

I asked him if he had any money - to which he told me he had fifty cents. He wanted me to take him to the other side of the city to visit a friend, of whose address he couldn't recall. 

All the time, my mind was travelling so many different ways, and I didn't know the best way to look after this man. If I picked him up, I wouldn't know what would happen. I didn't know his history, he wasn't hostile, but I didn't know anything about him. I gave him my umbrella, told him I wasn't able to give him a lift - and then hooted up to the local nursing home, pulled up, ran in and breathlessly asked if they were missing a man.

They were, and so I drove two staff down the long road, searching for that man.

I knew what he was wearing, knew his stature, knew his accent - but in the very short time it had taken me to get back - he was gone. 

I then decided we would go and search the local train station. 

Thankfully, he was there. Mercifully. Happily. Amazingly. 

He gave me a huge hug (I was worried he was going to be mad I had thwarted his getaway), and then we parted ways. 

I was happy to be able to take him back to a safe place - I had had thoughts of him walking away into the city, by himself with just fifty cents, and no recollection of where he was going or where he was from. 

Which brought me back to The Hen Men. 

Nursing homes are hard places - for everyone. Isn't this a beautiful and simple way to add meaning and value to someone in a possibly dark and lonely place? 

Best Summer Beauty Buys:: Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint

I've never been a big fan of tinted moisturiser. It's never the right colour - and it always feels a bit slick when applied to the face.

But as a huge and dedicated Dermalogica fan, I had to try this Ultra Sensitive Tint, because I've never met a Dermalogica product I didn't like love.

Perfect for application (you just need a little more than pea size), I used my fingers for easy and silky smooth application. I wore this everyday of my holidays and loved it - and didn't even go near my everyday foundation, because this was the perfect base. 

It's sheer - but not too sheer, it gives a nice even coverage and feels really good to touch. It worked well with my regular make-up too. 

Offering SPF30 and tinted using earth minerals it helps guard skin against sun and UV damage with Grape Seed and Green Tea extracts added to help fight against anti-oxidants. 

I really loved this - and would definitely recommend it for a really light everyday coverage - and sun protection. But if you don't love tinted coverage - I want to recommend the Super Sensitive Shield. Why? It's really gentle, smells amazing, and it was so good I used it on Tiny (she really, really hates wearing sunscreen - and she didn't complain with this, not once!). 


Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint $52



Disclosure:: This product was sent to me for review and editorial consideration. I considered it. Tried it. And loved it. I thought you might like it too! This is not a sponsored post. 

Best Summer Beauty Buys:: Black Chicken Axilla Natural Deodorant Paste

It may sound weird, but this deodorant paste is a total winner. Otherwise I wouldn't tell you about it. 

When I was first asked to try it out, I was dubious. I didn't want to have to apply a paste. But after two weeks of trialling it, I have to say - it's awesome. 

It's 100% natural from certified organic ingredients, made in Australia - and chemical free (aluminium, alcohol, petrochemicals, fragrance, phthalates, talc and parabens) - which means it's free from all the bad stuff we apply to our underarms almost religiously. 

Invisible after application, you just take a pea-sized amount, apply it under your arms - et voila! 

Really, I didn't think this was going to stand the test - but it lasts all day, and smells really, really good (kind of like old-fashioned cola lollies). For the ultimate test, I asked Matt to try it out - the results are in - it's even man-proof! 

It lets your body dispel toxins while keeping you fresh. 

How does it work? I know it sounds too good to be true, but the Kolin Clay and Arrowroot work together to absorb moisture while the Sodium Bicarbonate neutralises odour - and the shea butter moisturises and helps for easy application. Couple this with essential oils of Peppermint, Mandarin, Lime, Geranium (my favourite), Cajaput, Clove and Lavender - for their antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-stink and antiseptic properties, and you've got yourself a real game changer. 

Black Chicken Axilla Natural Deodorant Paste $15.95 - Nourished Life 

Disclosure:: This product was sent to me for review and editorial consideration. I considered it. Tried it. And loved it. I thought you might like it too! This is not a sponsored post. 

Beauty Review:: Max Factor Colour Elixir Gloss

I am someone who loves my gloss. Like really, really loves my gloss. 

I carry those puppies around everywhere I go. You never know when your lips need another slick of lip gloss. 

For me, the Max Factor Colour Elixir Gloss is the perfect pop of subtle colour, combined with a beautiful gloss - that's not sticky. 

Way back in 1930 Max Factor created lip gloss for Hollywood stars to make their lips super-glossy and sultry. These new colours are next level delivering high-pigmentation - perfect for Summer. 

Super smooth application, the gloss itself feels light on, but provides maximum gloss. And the palette is bang on - perfect for everyday use. 

Max Factor Colour Elixir Gloss $19.95

Disclosure:: This product was sent to me for review and editorial consideration. I considered it. Tried it. And loved it. I thought you might like it too! This is not a sponsored post. 

Best Beauty Buys:: Max Factor Colour X-Pert Waterproof Eyeliner

You and me. We both know I'm no beauty pro. But I love to dabble in new products, I'll always try something new. 

As part of the festival that was Frocktober, I became pretty good at applying the winged eye. This is no easy feat given I usually go all wonky. But practise makes perfect, and I became pretty good. From a Betty Draper wing tip, to a fuller Amy Winehouse flow, I got it down pat. 

Maybe you want to give it a try too?  Want to know my secret? 

This Max Factor Colour X-Pert Waterproof Eyeliner is the shiz. It's awesome. 

The tip creates a strong, defined line to create a dramatic line. If you're wanting to create a smooth, strong line - then this is the eyeliner. Plus it's waterproof so you won't have to worry about smudged lines, it stays in place all day - impeccable!

Max Factor Colour X-Pert Waterproof Eyeliner $19.95

Disclosure:: This product was sent to me for review and editorial consideration. I considered it. Tried it. And loved it. I thought you might like it too! This is not a sponsored post. 

Frocktober 2014:: Beauty Favourites

Given I've documented everything I've worn this month, it's meant I've had to dedicate myself to a pretty rigorous beauty regime. 

Say it ain't so! 

It is so, I need to get my face ready for the camera people!

Today I'm sharing three of my favourites that have helped me combat fatigue - or at least make it look that way!

1. Kosmea Facial Cleansing Wipes:: These are pretty well my favourite thing at the moment. At the end of the day, to get rid of the liquid eye-liner, foundation, everything I've layered on my face, these wipes are gentle, and cleanse your face in a wipe. I pretty well want to marry them. Plus they smell like rosewater, and rosewater is my all-time favourite smell. 

2. Bloom Cosmetics Full & Flirty Mascara:: I love thick looking, dark lashes, and this does just that. No flaking, no itching, instead just full, luscious lashes. Plus the brush ensures there's no clumping. 

3. Smashbox Camera Ready CC Cream:: A colour-correcting cream that combines camouflaging capabilities with a super dewy finish. It's hydrating, contains SPF 30, and just between you and me, I've been using this UNDER my regular foundation for a flawless finish. But you could wear just a moisturiser and this and be incredibly happy. 


What's the beauty product you couldn't live without?

Best Beauty Buy:: A 100% Natural, Gluten Free, Vegan Lipstick? YES PLEASE!

If we go on packaging alone (yes I am that superficial) I am already in love. A sleek, silver bullet-like case contains a brilliant surprise. 

Creamy, rich and a great colour, I've been really enjoying wearing 100% Pure Lip Vegan Lipstick. It's great wearing and the formulation feels hydrating and moisturising. I've been trying out Lychee and I have to attest, it is the perfect neutral pink, great for those times when you want a bit of lip colour, but you don't want to go all out with a statement lip colour.

A range of organic lipsticks that are coloured from the same fruit pigments that make strawberries red - and blueberries blue, they are healthy and rich in antioxidants and vitamins. 

So they're 100% natural, vegan, they're organic, and the pigments are perfect. But that's not all! The base contains avocado and cocoa butters (making them super moisturising) - they're also gluten free. 

Why gluten free? If you're looking to avoid gluten, many lip colours contain Vitamin E which can contain gluten. However the Vitamin E in these lip glazes is derived from cold pressing rice bran.

Pretty cool, huh? Next on my list is Watermelon - the best-seller, a sheer soft red. Sounds like it should be a staple in my beauty bag.

100% Pure Lip Vegan Lipstick from Nourished Life $20.95 

Dermalogica Face Mapping Facial:: The Downlow

While I'm on the subject of beauty and skincare, I have to share an amazing experience I had a few weeks ago. 

Dermalogica invited me to enjoy a FaceMapping session at their treatment centre. 

I'm going to skip to the punchline, because I can't recommend it enough. Immediately following the session I could see the results. My skin texture was immediately improved, it was well hydrated, and even if I do say so myself, the effects left my skin radiant. I floated out of that treatment feeling AMAZING.

But I don't need to say it myself, because a number of people have commented on how good my skin looks. Let me assure you, I'm not being a smug jerk. I have issues with my skin, so when someone tells me my skin looks great, I retain the compliment. Retain. Retain. Retain. 

So let's go back to the treatment. It's amazing.

Rebecca (my therapist) sat with me to talk about my skin concerns. Mine? Ageing. Spots. Dryness. 

She then took a look at my skin under a magnifying headset to map my face into 14 distinct zones. 

Say what? Well the image above explains it better. 

Drawing on the centuries old tradition of Chinese Facial Diagnosis, the skin therapist examines your skin, divides it into 14 zones, and takes a look at why your skin is looking the way it does. By taking the cues from the Chinese Facial Diagnosis, therapists can see the activity of the heart, lungs, liver, spleen and kidneys - and how they're reflected in the condition of your skin. 

For example, if the ears feel hot, it may mean potential kidney distress from too much alcohol or caffeine, resulting in dehydration. Or a pale, swollen nose might indicate the stressful effects of too much dairy.

Pretty amazing, huh?

So the treatment you get is tailored to your personal skin needs, so you get the optimum results. 

Inch-by-inch your therapist will look at your skin to provide an accurate record - so you can set some goals. The therapist can then prescribe products specifically to you. 

I am going to book in to have another session because it really did my skin wonders - plus highlighted some potential health issues. In my book, that's pretty cool. 

Face Mapping is only available from Dermalogica skin care professionals at authorised skin treatment centres. Want to get mapped?

Find a location here. 

*This is not a sponsored post. I was offered the opportunity to have a Face Mapping session. I took it with both hands. Loved it. Glowed. Raved about it. Want it to happen all over again. I wanted to share. I only ever share things I am truly passionate about, and want you to know about.

Beauty Review:: Racinne Ultimate Hydra Perfection Gentle Refining Scrub

I am a pretty mad keen exfoliator enthusiast. It's my go-to for smooth skin and it's something that gives you instant results. 

The thing I love about Racinne Ultimate Hydra Perfection Gentle Refining Scrub (try saying that 10 times fast) is that it really is gentle. The silky opalescent consistency makes it super gentle so you can use it daily. 

Containing a beautiful mix of lemongrass and peach extract, together with ultra-fine exfoliating that smoothes aged skin cells the exfoliator improves the surface, as well as removing embedded impurities and regenerates your skin to make it look brighter and smoother. The seaweed extract promotes a 28 day skin renewal to increase absorption for hydration and nutrients for beautiful radiant skin.

Super simple to use, I use it in the shower, gently massaging with a circular motion over the face (avoiding the eye area) and rinse. 

Buy Racinne Ultimate Hydra Perfection Gentle Refining Scrub here $24


Disclosure:: This product was sent to me for review and editorial consideration. I considered it. Tried it. And loved it. I thought you might like it too! This is not a sponsored post. 

Beauty Review:: Evo The Great Hydrator Moisture Mask

My hair gets exceptionally dry. I'm talking snap off and die. Knot to mention the knot factor. Blergh. Dry hair. Do care. 

So I tried this hair moisture mask. I've tried masks in the past and not been fussed by them. All those other moisture treatments have given me the feeling that they've moisturised my hair, but it hasn't been a long lasting feeling. 

Enter Evo. 

Evo is one of my all-time favourite hair products. I first started off with Easy Tiger - many, many years ago. It's super good. When I had shorter hair I really, really loved Salty Dog Cocktail Beach Spray - it gave me more texture. Then I graduated to Haze Powder (honestly if you want texture in your hair, and volume, this is the goods), Builder's Paradise got me through Frocktober and my menagerie of random hairstyles, I use Love Perpetua on Tiny's hair. It really helps to get the knots out. 

So you could say I am a bit of an Evo devotee. Or junkie. But there's no rehab available. So onwards I must go. 

But on with The Great Hydrator Moisture Mask. I used it. My hair instantly felt smoother. Softer. Better. And it smelt pretty rad too. Once it was dry, my hair felt moisturised and easier to work with (less knots, less snapping, more awesome). It also gave my hair a bit of extra shine which I am a huge fan of! 

Sulphate and paraben free scores highly on my report card too - the less nasties, the better. 

I've started using it once a week and can absolutely feel the difference in my hair quality. It's detangling super powers are super brilliant. Be gone my dry Wintery hair! Hello soft, smooth hair! 


Evo The Great Hydrator Moisture Mask $29.95


Disclosure:: This product was sent to me for review and editorial consideration. I considered it. Tried it. And loved it. I thought you might like it too! This is not a sponsored post. 

If It's Good Enough for the Duchess of Cambridge:: Karin Herzog

So the Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine was recently out here in Australia - and beyond lusting after her impeccable wardrobe and luscious thick locks - lots of people commented on her peachy perfect complexion.

How does she do it? In a recent interview she credited the Karin Herzog oxygen face creams. 

And given I am not even close to being royalty, I thought I'd give it a shot too. 

I've been using this face cream for over a month and have to say, the results are pretty compelling. I don't have a before and after, but have already noticed smaller pores, healthier looking skin, and a better texture of my complexion. 

I don't naturally have flawless skin. Sigh. It breaks out from time to time, and despite me knowing I am in my mid-30s, apparently my skin still thinks it's a teenager. Thanks for the spots! The oxygen in the  formulas kills pimple-causing bacteria and helps to control redness. 

Although this cream is better suited to younger skins, (this one is probably better for my age group), it is perfect for problem skin - and doesn't strip out the natural oils from skin.


Karin Herzog Oxygen Face Cream $60 (free shipping) 



* this product was sent to me for editorial consideration - this is not a sponsored post, but I tried the product, I loved the product, and I wanted to share. It's that great. I only share things that I genuinely love and think you might like too.

3 Things I Love (Best Beauty Buys)

It's been a while, but I think it's imperative that I share the beauty love. As we all know, everyone gathered here at this computer screen, I really do love trying new beauty products. I wouldn't say I am a beauty buff, but I am a make-up and cosmetic junkie. I love me some playing with new sparkly things.

We are gathered here today to talk about three things that I am really loving. 

1. Max Factor Excess Volume Extreme Impact Mascara $25.95

Once you've tried one mascara, you've tried them all. Right? WRONG! WRONG! Go directly to Wrongtown.

THIS mascara is ace. ACE! I looked at it and was a little turned off by the double end thing. I am someone who doesn't have time to fuss about around make-up, so I like my products to do their job, do it quickly and do it well.

BUT - one end thickens the lashes, while the other seals the look - and makes them luscious and glossy.

This is super. Duper. Awesome. 

Application is easy and straightforward - and the difference to my lashes is HUGE! So huge you can probably see my lashes from a satellite. I am not even close to lying.

They look so long and thick. I could happily wear this, with some foundation and blush - and BOOM! I am done for the day. 

Try it. I think you'll be pretty chuffed. 

2. Dermalogica Precleanse Wipes $23

I am actually addicted to these. And there is no rehab. Which is fine because they are so ace. Dermalogica has a pre cleanse that comes in a bottle - it's ace too, but these wipes are so easy to throw into your bag - and not have to worry about leakage freakage. 

My cleanser doesn't seem to remove all my make-up, so I sometimes do a double cleanse. However these wipes give you a really beautiful deep cleanse and leaves your skin feeling velvety good. Now I bypass the double cleanse - plus it's really great for removing mascara (see above). 

3. Oral-B Glide Pro-Health $5.99 (I think)

They say it takes 21 days to form a habit, and after having a rap over the knuckles from my dentist, I'm beyond 21 days of flossing. GO ME!

Who wants to talk about flossing? Oh. No one. But let's just pretend this is a private conversation. There used to be this Oral-B floss that I really, really, really loved - it wasn't that plastic-y stuff, it was more like a thread. I loved it. And then it vanished.

No one knows how many stores I visited looking for that damn floss. No one. Seriously. It was like my quest. To no avail, it's gone. I even contemplated writing them a letter to tell them how outraged I was.

Thankfully I found this floss recently. It's now my new favourite. It's good. It isn't like flossing with fishing wire.

I know. Who knew I was ever going to write about floss with such verve. Me neither. But if you're into flossing, or trying to be, then try this, it's not going to slice through your gums like butter. I promise. 

                                                         ***

** I was sent the Max Factor mascara and Dermalogica wipes for editorial consideration. And quite frankly, I loved them, so I wanted to tell you about them. This is not a sponsored post. This is me telling you about something that is so rad, I had to share. 

Beauty Review:: Ellis Faas Skin Veil

A couple of weeks ago I ran out of foundation. Uh ohs.

Buying foundation is not top of my hit list, and I don't find it terribly exciting. To me, it's like buying milk and bread. Meh.

I've been using the same Stila foundation for probably seven or eight years. I went to the store to - what I thought - buy the same again. No thinking required, just refill. 

Instead the girl that served me encouraged me to try something new - and having a spare 20 minutes, I obliged her request to try it on my skin. 

Hellooooooo new foundation!! 

Fast forward 20 minutes later, when she had sold me on this amazing foundation by Ellis Faas. 

Honestly - it's the best foundation ever. Ever. That's a big call I know. So why do I like it? Well despite it being more exy than my normal foundation ($110 VS $58), the formulation is so velvety and beautiful to apply, the finish is honestly a veil. My skin has never looked so flawless. 

After contemplating the price difference, I thought about it - if I've been using the same foundation for almost eight years, well it's high time I changed because my skin has aged in this time. Makes sense right? I am SO glad I did buy it.


Ellis Faas Skin Veil Foundation from Mecca Cosmetica $110


* I bought this product out of my own hard-earned cash.

Way Cool Workshops:: Desmond & Molly Jones

Aye carumba. The cool cats at Desmond & Molly Jones have put together such an awesome menu of workshops I can't even begin to tell you.

Actually. I lie. I can tell you. I will tell you. Because they are SO FLIPPING COOL!

Leonard Newton, salon owner and all-round ace guy said: “It’s about sharing ideas and being a bigger part of the community we work and live in. Desmond & Molly Jones is more than simply a hair salon and by offering a unique variety of workshops we are opening our doors to people from all walks of life, keeping the local spirit alive.”

I love that philosophy of sharing - and making things accessible to more people. 

Well let's get to the punch line. 

DAD & DAUGHTER: Matt and I have this ongoing joke about Matt's repertoire of hairstyles for Tiny. A high  ponytail that looks like Bam Bam from The Flinstones. 

If your man is the same - this is THE perfect way to spend a Sunday morning with the little lady in your life. 

Coffees and cupcakes (no tantrums and tiaras) while you learn a range of techniques that will transform your daughter’s hair into princess locks of love. You’ll reach a whole new level of hero in her eyes! Hopefully this will mean the end of Tiny's massive dreadlocks, or brat's nest as my sister lovingly refers to it. 

In this session they're demonstrating braiding, ponytailing and elegant up do's that are simple and quick to do... perfect for the Dad with a little girl on the go. Book here. 

Other workshops? Heck they have so many goodies!! 

BRAIDY BUNCH              MONDAY 18TH NOVEMBER                  7PM – 9PM
In case you hadn't noticed, I love braiding my hair, and I learnt my one braid from YouTube. Hopefully this workshop will mean I can extend my repertoire AND socialise with real people. 

BLOOMING BRILLIANT FLORAL CROWNS                   
                                    SUNDAY 24TH NOVEMBER        10.30AM -MIDDAY
The princess of peonies Holly Hipwell will show you how to create your own floral crown with spring fresh flowers. Plus they'll send you home with a kit so you can keep on making your own.

CURL ME UP BABY         MONDAY 2ND DECEMBER                     7PM – 9PM 
Currently I curl my hair using a very untechnical method. Washing my hair before bed, going to bed with damp hair and hoping like crazy it curls up over night. It's been pretty successful to date, however I have a hunch this workshop will make me look less like I've had a big night out at Studio 54, and more like I've got a clue about the curl. 

All images by Luisa Brimble for Desmond & Molly Jones. 

Dermalogica Clear Start (Sponsored)

When I was a teenager I read Dolly, talked all afternoon the phone to my besties, kept letterbooks with my friends - recalling in excruciating detail everything that had happened each day. I loved fashion (which was totally in conflict with today's teenage uniform of too-short denim shorts, and midriffs), and I memorised all my favourite song lyrics. I'm pretty sure that never came in handy.

My beauty regime consisted of cleansing, moisturising and then go. It was pretty simple. 

Roll on the years - and you can ditch the soapbar - Dermalogica has launched their new Clear Start range for teenagers. Oh man. If only this was around when I was a teen. 

I spoke with Emma Hobson, Education Manager of the International Dermal Institute about the merits of looking after your skin as a teenager. So now us mums just need to help make it a reality! 

Why is it important to look after your skin as a teenager?

EH: Over 85 per cent of teenagers are afflicted with acne breakouts, so taking preventative action can help a great deal in assisting them to navigate this challenging period of their lives. Keeping a handle on teen breakouts is never easy, especially with so many raging hormones to contend with.  However a great deal can be achieved when incorporating a good skin care routine. In order to avert skin problems teens need to use products that are designed for their specific skin concerns, and that are formulated with ingredients that address oiliness, breakouts and congestion. They should look for products that also contain a high volume of anti-inflammatories which  will help  heal the lesions rapidly and reduce the incidence of a pigmented scars.  

What's wrong with just soap and water?

EH: Soap, having an ‘alkaline pH’ strips, irritates and dries the skin (both surface oil and moisture). If the skin is 'stripped’ of its natural oils it responds by producing more oil, resulting in the skin being more oily, not less! The alkaline pH also causes increased skin sensitisation.

Does taking care of your skin earlier effect how your skin is later in life?

EH: For sure. If during puberty you can keep your skin healthy and free of congestion, this means less breakouts which equates to less scarring. There should also be a focus on keeping it protected from the environment (think free radicals and sun damage), which will result in less premature ageing and skin discolouration (not forgetting that it also reduces the chances of contracting skin cancer). If you can do all of the above, you’ll noticeably enjoy the benefits of your investment in good skin care.

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'When I was a teen my top priority was...' Share a photo on Instagram of what you'd love to bring back from your teen years for your chance to win a gift pack valued at $500. Be sure to tag @DermalogicaAus and #ClearStart in your post.

In Preparation For Frocktober:: A Haircut with Desmond & Molly Jones

So I got my hair cut today! Cue loud cheers, dancing and a ticker tape parade. Maybe some pinatas too.

Amazing, considering I haven't had it cut since May. That's so crazy-town because I really, really love having my haircut. And washed. And blow-dried. It makes me want to curl up in a ball and sleep. 

I decided that before Frocktober starts, I had to get myself ready - and what better way than with a haircut.

Ages ago the good people of Desmond & Molly Jones invited me to their salon. I was never able to make it, months passed, and I decided it was time to get a chop. I loved the look of the salon, and they sounded like my kind of people, so I booked myself in with Kate for a cut, et voila! I feel like a new woman.

I am so glad I visited. Besides the deliciously beautiful name, it's a treasure trove of eye candy. Mirrored benches, rosettes adorning the walls, a gold pig, and people that make you feel as though you've been friends for years. I even got to take our new worms there (more on that later) much to everyone's amusement.

It is amazing how having a great hair day can put not only a bounce in your hair but a spring in your step. Kate not only gave me a great cut, but also some great tips on getting the world's biggest dreadlock (aka brat's nest) out of Tiny's hair (more on that later too), and my hair smells like my favourite Evo products. 

Desmond & Molly Jones
98 Albion Street
Surry Hills, NSW
P: 02 9281 2100 


Disclosure: I paid for the experience. I loved the experience. I wanted to share. I'd totally recommend a visit! 

Why The Hypoxi Radio Ad is Poxy. In Fact. It Sucks.

There's a radio ad on at the moment for Hypoxi. 

Before we get into the ad, let me talk about Hypoxi. Hypoxi is, in my book, a load of codswallop. It's meant to be a weight loss thing, but looks like an 80s computer that you stick your legs in and apparently - shazam - your cellulite will disappear. See why I think it's a load of bollocks?

I might as well get the Atari 64 out and stick my pins in and see how that goes. Probably just as effective. Call me cynical, but Hypoxi - don't call me maybe.

In my book - if you want to tone up - diet and exercise. Not a poxy Hypoxi machine. 

But anyway, I digress. Back to the radio ad. 

It starts off something like:

"Ladies, what shape is your body?" 

(Pause)

"Ooooh, that's a lot of pears."

And then it goes on to talk about the merits of poxy Hypoxi. And on it goes.

The premise being - pear-shaped women = ouch. Poor you. But we can do something about it. We can fix your pear-shaped body. 

Well I'm here to say - screw you Hypoxi ads and your petri dish for breeding insecurity in women. Women already have enough insecurities without you planting a seed of doubt in our minds. 

I'm a pear shaped woman, and I don't need you to validate - or even erase my shape. For all you know, I might be totally happy being a pear. I love pears. Juicy, tasty fruit that they are. I'm ok with being a pear. 

I really detest this ad. And whenever it comes on, I'm pretty sure my blood pressure goes up. 

Who comes up with these ads that are targeted at making you feel bad about yourself? I for one am not going to align myself with a brand that makes me feel like poo and guilts me into trying their product. I won't buy a thing from them. 

Pear, apple, banana, kiwi fruit, mango - whatever shape you are - don't feel ashamed ladies! 

And this, my friends is why I think the Hypoxi radio ad is totally and utterly poxy. You can have your Hypoxi and jam it. 

Eyebrow Makeover

It has been seven months since I had my eyebrows done. Not since the Napoleon Dynamite incident have I been back to a beautician. You may not have noticed, but they were way out of hand, and beyond a quick pluck by my own hand. 

I've had a few brow catastrophes over the years, and ever since the Edith Piaf palaver back in '63, I've been trying to re-grow parts of them. 

You may sit there and roll your eyes, but friends, gather around. Eyebrows are important! They frame your face! 

Jen from Interiors Addict kindly introduced me to the brow genius of our day - Jazz Pampling. 

The photo doesn't really do justice to my new brows, but I gotta tell you, they are - despite being plucked (and patchy in a couple of spots due to the waxing incident from long ago) - looking thicker, a better shape - and a little darker. 

Did you know thicker brows can make you look younger? Well you do now. (Except the crease between my brows, that my children *lovingly* call train tracks.)

And if you needed any more convincing - take a look below - Anne Hathaway with and without brows. EEP! 

I booked an appointment with Jazz, took an hour out of my day, and got my caterpillars under control. In case you've missed my out-of-control delight on Instagram, I am pretty chuffed with them!

And my eyebrows lived happily ever after. 

The end. 

Best Beauty Buys:: Kosmea Skin Clinic Rescue Body Cream

You can see by the tube how much I've loved this cream. 

Every Winter I get super dry skin, which not only looks unsightly (however I only know because I am hidden under about 72 layers of clothing), I get the dry-skin itch too. You ever get that? Itchy and scratchy and annoying winter skin. It makes me almost as cross as being cold. 

I've been using this as an all over body cream after my shower. Despite the lush feel of it, it's quickly absorbed into the skin, so you don't get that oil-slick feeling, which for me means I sit on the bed - waiting to get dressed. With this, you can dress straight away. These are the big issues people!

I've been using it on the littlies too, and they've had no complaints. Winning!

Pumped full of goodness, the cream contains rose hip butter, everlasting oil and shea butter, it's loaded with goodness to make the skin look and feel better. It's meant to be good on stretch marks too. Not that I'd know anything about that, would I? *cough*

I also like to use it just before bed as an ultra-rich hand cream. I liked it because it soaked in and left my hands (in the morning) feeling softer and supple. It smells super good too. I was watching TV one night, couldn't figure out where this awesome smell was coming from, and realised about 15 minutes later it was my moisturiser. Hang on a minute, my phone's ringing... (Hello, MENSA, is that you?)


Kosmea Skin Clinic Rescue Body Cream $29.95 (125ml)


Disclosure: This product was sent to me for review - however I had no obligation to do so. I will only tell you about products I genuinely love and use. Honesty is after all the best policy. I use it, I love it, I wanted to share.