Lemon Butter

Boxing Day Sales - What I Got

2011-12-27T14:08:00.005+11:00

Step away from the computer.

Do not pass your wallet.

Do not spend another $200.

Spencer Lacy silk tank.

Stillier Leather Sports Carry All
(last one - it was meant to be)

All from Sambag

(I hope they fit)

What did you get on Boxing Day?

Did you brave the shops?

Of course, being me, I opted to stay home in pjs and do the online thing.I am chuffed - I set out to get new ballet flats, new sandals, a new bag and a nice out to dinner appropriate top, I won.

Now all I need is the perfect tan leather jeans belt and I am done... but I won't look for a month or two.

Nat x

5 Mins of Boredom; The Results

2011-12-26T16:03:00.004+11:00

How was your December 25?
Mine? Gorgeous and tasty, but now the months of working silly hours under silly stress with gym in between has caught up. Man am I fluey.

Yesterday between the visit to my parents and M's parents, we were home for about 20 minutes. I found myself with 5 minutes to kill so I thought I'd take some silly snaps, as per below.

Kisses to all my readers!

Christmas Nails. M, my brother's girlfriend, asked if I ran out of red. Oops.

Tiffany Anchor I have wanted forever, gift from C (sister in law)

So so so SO full. Not used to that much food, and that heavy.

M doesn't like big arms on girls, I think I am till pretty pewny (that is so a word), especially compared to Amanda!

I could not move far away enough from the desk to show you my Christmas Day outfit. It was just a black on the knee cotton dress, a' la Target.

Smiles for Christmas.

2012 will put me on the road to becoming the next Janella Purcell!

Christmas M&Ms from my gorgeous friends L&L, who just had the best baby ever, H.

Lunch yesterday included prawns, cold meats, oily antipasto items, soft cheese, traditional sweets, ginger bread men, fruit cake, tiramisu, pavlova, and the list goes on.

Dinner included antipasto, prawns, insanely yummy salads, roast meats, baked potatoes, home made pudding with custard and citrus cheesecake. Then a giant box of cookies - take away.

Now I am rugged up in a trackies & 3 tops (including a hoodie - hello Summer) trying to force myself to get better faster so I can go to the beach sooner... sigh.

I was a spoilt lady, from the necklace above to The World's Best mortar and pestle to an epic food processor I can't wait to use to goodies for my new office to a Foo Fighters tee that actually fits me! Long story.... and then some.

I hope your Christmas was as special as mine.

Have a beautiful end to 2011.

Nat x

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T08:02:00.003+11:00

How has your year been? I can't believe it's about to end.. it seems only yesterday I spent an afternoon writing a Christmas gift guide for this little blog - which I had every intention of doing again this year, but I've just been too busy!

This was my year.....

We adopted two amazing kittens and Buckley & Munro came into our lives...
M & I took a trip to Port Douglas to celebrate 10 years of being us.
I was welcomed into the crazy world of Supply Chain at work.
I joined a gym for the first time ever, became a gym lover, a consequently became toned & healthier.
I was accepted into a Bachelor of Science - Nutritional Therapy (sca-doo! Still can't wait!)
I had about 20 different tests trying to get to the bottom of dizzy spells only to find out they're 'silent migraines'.
I gave up sugar for a month (almost), which resulted in me giving up my choc every day habit permanently.
I started enjoying running.
I got on a plane despite extreme fear of flying.
I started a food blog, Lemon Living, and became an extreme food and cooking lover.

I'm sure other fabulous, memorable things happened that I can't remember right now, and there were others I'd rather not mention on the internet. It was a big year and a good year.

Check out my kitties helping their Daddy put up the Christmas Tree...

All they do all day and night is climb it.. I didn't get one pretty picture of it. They also decided that chewing holes through our brand new Christmas lights was an entirely festive thing to do. We never aw our tree with the lights on - they chewed them up before December 1st!

We also have to hide a lot of presents on the buffet so they don't unwrap them, but I did find Buckley up there yesterday... naughty!

Our pressies hiding on the buffet .. with wonky cat-loved tree in the background;

I am excited about 2012, I will...
Start Uni! On the road to working to raise awareness and educate the entire world about using food as preventative medicine... my biggest passion in life.
Have the opportunity to manage someone for the first time ever as my manager will go on maternity leave.
Move into new offices at work and get my own office.
Travel to Sydney, New Zealand and hopefully some other trips TBA!
Get even fitter and even stronger.
Spend a lot of time at the beach in January & February.

All mine in 2012!

Thank you for your support throughout 2011 and for sticking with me despite my extreme drop in post frequency after making the food blog a higher priority.

Merry Christmas to all and a very Happy and Safe Holiday Season!

And finally I ask for an opinion.

Work shorts, yay or nay?

I wore them and got a lot of compliments, but I want your thoughts...

I'll see you in 2012!

Nat x

Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector

2011-11-29T20:59:00.004+11:00

I bought this;

I don't know about it yet. I've never used a BB cream - which is what is claims to be, and to be honest had no idea what a BB cream was until I messaged my darling Melanie (of the ampersand variety) asking.

The impression I got after asking Mel and a bit of a Google was that a BB cream was very light, produced dewy-ness and glowy-ness and all the other -ness' that you want to come out of any make up product, as well as doubling up as some wonderful skin treatment. This didn't really do that for me.

Now I know I am not exactly the Queen-N on all things beauty or make up, I mean I am the girl that used to sand paper her nose, (do not ask), but I believe I can tell when a tinted moisturiser is trying to pass itself off as something fancier.

Garnier's Miracle Skin Perfect was a relatively thick, for me anyway, tinted moisturiser. It was far too pigmented for me to consider putting on as the first thing to touch my face after cleansing, (stuck to my Biotherm White D-Tox or Rosehip oil - I am a creature of habit). I really don't believe something that pigmented, no matter how spiffy the other ingredients are, can be good as a first touch on the skin.

Another thing I didn't like? Maybe just because I am so pale, but it gripped onto any imperfection on my skin. Recovering zit? Let's make it darker! Bit of a dry patch on your nose? Should probably accentuate that! We all love a bit of patchy, as evident in our extreme love of 101 dalmatians.

It does give me a glowy finish, but more in a tanned way, not a dewy way. This is probably because the light shade still comes no where near matching my snow-white face.

All in all I do like it and will finish the tube - but as a regular tinted moisturiser and only during summer, not as a treatment of any sort for my skin and not in winter or I'll look like I got a bit intimate with a jar of Vegemite. And you will want to lick my head.

I don't want that.

I guess you get what you pay for, completely open to new ideas and trying more reptuable BB creams now.

Any suggestions?

Have you tried it? Did you like it?

Nat x

You Organised Something?

2011-11-23T10:27:00.003+11:00

Yes, my wardrobe. Well, it's as organised as I'll ever get..

Work Wardrobe in the WIR

Yes, I can wear jeans to work - the containers don't care what I look like all that much.

Anyone else work in Supply Chain?

Casz wardrobe. It annoys me so much when people say casz and spell in with a z just like that. It makes zero sense.

Yeah, stupid amount of pride in my organisation even though it ain't all that or a bag of chips, nor do I enjoy it - to be honest, I like mess. Seriously, it's homely.

In other non-news, I bought new kicks just before hitting Port Douglas (did I tell you Port Douglas was beautiful?)

Nike Vomero's are amaze-or.

If you work out, ever, please fork out some $$ and get some decent runners. 5 years of illness have meant my very high arches started dropping and it is painful! This can also happen i you don't wear good footwear, especially when you work out.

Hello Sleepy A.

Hello Sleepy B.

I picked this up at Target for a whole $35 or there abouts. Hello versatility, work appropriate-ness and super comfort. Target, you have impressed me. I also got a couple of tops and a pair of work shorts. Thank you, Target, for helping me save for my Longines.

Sometimes, however, you need some Saba, or Cue, or Ojay (like this one).

I wish the photo did the amazing green colour justice as the style isn't anything wow.

A Novo Shoes super-bargain.

I had a 40% off voucher and all I could find were these, that shop is full of a lot of rubbish at the moment. Even the edges on these are finished poorly, but hey, for $34, who cares. The shop assistant did say to me, 'So you're only buying one pair?'. Yes, because your other stuff is rubbish.

Been shopping?

Anyone want to tell me where all the attractive bags and dresses under $500 in the world have gone?

Nat x

VS 2011 Fashion Show

2011-11-22T21:47:00.005+11:00

How am I so swept up in life that I didn't even realise it happened?

Thanks AmpersandMel for telling me!

Can someone please explain to me why I have such a fixation with Miranda Kerr? I think there's something wrong with me. I can't explain it... I'm just nuts?

Did anyone else read what Adriana Lima said she has to do before a show? Man oh man oh my oh goodness.

In other news, I ate lots today. Please remind me not to do this again as I am way too full.

Nat x

Port Douglas! I miss you..

2011-10-26T16:22:00.002+11:00

Do yourself a favour and take a holiday to Port Douglas. Stay at the Sea Temple. Eat at The Inlet and order the seafood platter. Hire a car and drive to Mossman Gorge and drink Pina Colada's by the pool.

Go on, life's too short for saving pennies.

More favours you can do for yourself as recommended by me;

Buy the most decadent choccie ice cream in the supermarket and eating it while scorning at unhealthy people on Doctor Oz/ Doctors / The Biggest Loser

Stand in the sun for too long

Buy yourself a kitten, or two

Find an amazing boyfriend like mine and spend 10 years (minimum) with him until you want to pop from loving him so much

Observe ducks in a pond

Never look at the fat content on the previously mentioned ice cream

Nat x

Perricone MD No Sun Tanner

2011-10-26T14:21:00.002+11:00

Oh man, I want this.

I used to be the authority on fake tan, (more affectionately known as 'sunless' tan, seeing as no one likes a fake) and still have oh, let's see, 14 or so bottles of it in my not at all (pff!) overflowing bathroom beauty collection. I'd love to revisit that authoritativeness (yes, that is a word), but this is.. wait for it... $110.

Is that ridiculous or am I just getting old? I used to spend $110 at the drop of a hat on, well, anything really. Even an actual hat.

So, to buy or not to buy?

Did you buy?

Did you love?

Did your best mates girlfriend buy & love?

Do you want to buy it to love it? You can click here, or here.

Do tell!

Nat x

Blue Carpet

2011-09-26T20:43:00.003+10:00

(Gee Natalie, that was quick).

All photos - Herald Sun

Eh, she does what she does best.

Everyone raves about this ladies appearance & style, but I've never understood. A little too, waxy.

Apart from "Renae Wauhop", I'm not super sure who she is and I'm not a big fan of this dress, but she sure is an attractive lady.

I'm sure 80% of the population will disagree with this, but I loved this dress! I thought she looked beautiful.

Too many women waiting for a proposal it seems..

I expected to see more dresses exactly like this.

I think this just didn't work for TV or something, I'm sure she looked amazing in real life.

She always looks like she's about to throttle someone?

Token too-much-tan-girl.

She announced it was cobalt blue in her interview. She much be super artistic and smart and stuff.

Gary Dempsey's daughter is beautiful.

I have a kitty named Buckley.

Even Alex Perry surely knows this was high fashion in 1999?

Sorry dear, I'm sure you worked hard, but I actually think this is the worst.

Nothing wrong witht he dress, but I thought hair & make up could've been softer?

Of course all these women look 100 times better than I would if I tried, but it's Brownlow, & everyone's a critic.

What did you think?

Nat x

Blue Jeans

2011-09-25T21:49:00.003+10:00

I bought jeans that are remarkably similar to these today;

They are blue, and I am excited to wear them and finally own something that doesn't make me look, olllllld. Like the whole quarter century I turned just last week. Man, I can't believe I have been 25 for a whole week already...

Did I tell you I am on project be-young-er? No?

Hi, I'm Natalie and I want to look my age, or a year or two younger, just for a bit.

I also tried on a hot pink scallop edged backless slightly cropped top....

TOO FAR!

PS. Does anyone, anywhere, make nice clutches anymore?

Nat x

Bright & Bikini

2011-09-11T09:18:00.002+10:00

I found the most flattering bikini on earth (and I have to say, Seafolly is leading the way in flattering-ness this season). I purchased it for my upcoming luxury beach holiday.

I prefer to wear it strapless.

I also loved this..

But it is black and not colourful - I want it in Magenta.

Highly recommend Seafolly if you're on the hunt.

Or Jets, but I always recommend Jets.

Jets didn't win this year as I am only loving things in stupidly bright colours.

Including this lippy I purchased on the same night;

(Thanks to someone else's blog for the piccy)

Anyone else have an out of character obsession with bright things at the moment? I'm even multi-colouring my nails.

Anyone else started kini shopping? Some styles I pined over were already getting down to 'only 3 of that size left in Aus I can bring some in for you?'.

Nat x

Skirt & Hair

2011-09-04T11:37:00.003+10:00

Today I am wearing a skirt sans tights for the first time since, April I think? Yay!

I also woke up and decided I wanted to look like a creepy giant doll, and they said I couldn't!

What should I do with this hair of mine?

See it's long, but it's super fine and there's not much of it. The last cut was an embarrassingly long time ago and she put it in layers, which I don't think works because I want long hair and the ends are straggly layered...

These are my ends which are grown out blonde foils. I used to walk around thinking it was the easy way to get balayage. I was kidding myself, obv. I love that my laptop wants to correct 'balayage' to 'jambalaya'. Sure, why not?

This is the pathetic excuse for a fringe (sorry, fringe, but really, pick your game up... and no, totally not my fault for not taking you to a salon). A fringe is all well and good when you have a good lump of hair to pull a fringe out from. I don't knoooow...

Help!

And now, a HAPPY HAIR MOMENT for your viewing pleasure;

HAPPY HAIR MOMENT

bought to you by;

December, 2009

Ocean Grove Mini Golf

My Local Hairdresser

Salt Water

So, yeah, what now?

I am thinking darker, rich chocolate brown, no highlights, and that's as far as I get.

So stylish ladies of the world, please advise. Un-stylish ladies, look over there! A BIRD!

And does anyone else ever get random ads blurting out there speakers and no be able to figure out which window they're open in? How annoying..

Nat x

House of Harlow 1960 Fall 2011

2011-09-02T09:47:00.002+10:00

I like this.

Nat x

Yellow Nails?

2011-09-01T15:52:00.002+10:00

These are mine this week. I've been home sick for the majority of the week but still received a lot of squawks and 'What The' comments, none were particularly complimentary.

Home sick = trackies and bad webcam shots with my old glasses on.

Maybe I will leave them to Katie Perry.

Spring makes me want fun nails, with the exception of the Chanel black pearl a darling friend picked up for me whilst in the US of A, which I cannot wait to steal away from her.

So, yellow, dark, or pastel?
I'm thinking Lilac next...

Is it tacky to do a rainbow of pastels?
Don't worry, I know the answer to that.

Nat x

Make Up Kits

2011-09-01T15:42:00.002+10:00

Laura Mercier on StrawberryNet

I love make up kits - they remind me of being 13 and owning 4 different Australis ones (and getting super excited to see the new ones every time I went to Priceline).

Nat x

Wishlist

2011-08-31T14:33:00.003+10:00

It's my birthday soon, and this is tradition.

Tiffany Silver Anchor Pendant

New Trainers from Athlete's Foot

Subscription to Women's Health Magazine

Some plain Black Round Toe Wedges

Janella Purcell's 'Eating for the Seasons'

A new Summer Dress & new Bikini

Dinner Somewhere Amazing

A night in the Olsen followed by a day of shopping

A Cut/Colour/Blow wave at the hairdressers

Make up from Illmasqua

A Shellac Manicure

Natio Self Tan Lotion Kit

A Casual Summer Bag

New Comfy Trackies

Nat x

Help Wanted

2011-08-29T15:34:00.004+10:00

I mean, like, I am not as stylin' as I once was either, but I still own a mirror.

Oh well, at least she's healthy now?

Nat x

I want to change my look

2011-08-28T18:50:00.002+10:00

Where does one start?

Thanks, Flickr & people who think they're photoshop warriors (I used to be one!)

I want darker hair, that's all I know. Oh, and I don't want to cut it - I want it long again like it used to be.

I am tired of everyone thinking I am 27-29. I am 24, not 27 or 29.

I'd also like naturally olive skin. Shame really.

I don't go out much and I hate it. I don't remember the last time I did eye make up beyond concealer and mascara. I want to wear a dress and have a reason to put shimmer on my shoulder (really).

So what do I so now?

Nat x

Miranda.

2011-08-05T23:24:00.002+10:00

I know you've all seen it, but just YES.

I do have to say, though, that although she looks 14 different times of super amazing hot, I'm not rushing out to buy that Jets swimsuit.

I still love you, Miranda.

Nat x

Vogue; Fashion Night In

2011-05-18T22:39:00.003+10:00

Ooo this excites me! A night of online shopping deals bought to us by Vogue on June 8th.

Click here for a list of participating brands.

Are we excited? I think yes. I think the event may have been invented for me.

Nat x

New Boots/New Hair

2011-05-01T15:32:00.004+10:00

I got them, I had to.

Hey, pasty attention seeker! I need get the bake into my fake.

Pictured with skirt I bought from ASOS (which I plan on wearing with tights in Winter). I'll show you the other lovely pieces I purchased from ASOS soon.

Oh yeah, I coloured my hair for the first time in 7 years (apart from some foils). No more virgin hair for me.

Dye in the hairs!

The smell makes me angry, even though it's ammonia free semi perm, still not to my tastes.

In the false lighting.

Today, in Melbourne's dull lighting, just before I typed here.

I like me better dark, despite the entire world disagreeing with me.

I'm looking for more change now, not sure what yet.... stay tuned!

Nat x

Things I Want.

2011-04-29T22:11:00.000+10:00

Rona Booties from Witchery, $189.00

I saw these in Witchery, Torquay over the weekend and I fell in love. I never fall in love with heeled boots. Jolly shame I was looking for some casual ones (I don't like any of the casz ones around. Help?).

Nat x

A Royal Opinion

2011-04-29T22:04:00.002+10:00

Well, everyone else has one.

Kate looked beautiful, pretty, and sorry but - predictable! There's no denying her dress was attractive but was anyone else disappointed that she did exactly what everyone thought she would? A little bit of yawn. Maybe she did look perfect as the entire world is saying, but I'm not a fan of perfect.

Her sister on the other hand. Phwoar - and I love that it was white!

Julia Gillard looked classy and appropriate. Well done, PM.

David looked amazingly cute (if only I didn't know what happened when he opened his mouth). I only liked Victoria from the neck up.

Lol. Jks yeh?

If I were the Queen of England & had people sing a song about saving me at the most watched event in history, I'd wear yellow too.

Cheers!

Nat x

Angelina for Louis Vuitton

2011-04-27T21:05:00.004+10:00

What do you think of the idea of Angelina as the face of LV?
It's being reported that she's signed a deal.

I'm not keen. Why? I am a fan of Angelina Jolie, as obvious as it is to say it, I think she's beautiful, incredibly versatile and very able to convey a gracious and classy image. Despite the wack-job stories run about her, I still have an image in my mind of a beautiful, confident woman. That being said, I ignore celebrity stories and media portrayals of celebrities (and get a lot of turned up noses when I declare I am also a big fan of Lara Bingle).

Also, I don't like Louis Vuitton as a brand. Apart from not being a fan of the majority of their products, I can't really pinpoint why (as much as I'd like to admit it doesn't, the 1400 fake monogram bags I see a day probably don't help). I also think their last ad campaign portrayed the company perfectly with one of my personally most disliked celebrities.

Need I say more?

I don't think Angelina fits the LV brand. But then again, I'd probably do it for the reported 10mil as well, if I had too...

What do you think?

I know I am not the only LV non-fan, but am I the only person on earth left that admires Angelina Jolie beyond 'Yeah, she's very attractive'?

Nat x

Alannah Hill (now with online store)

2011-04-17T20:29:00.006+10:00

Edit!

Within 5 minutes of posting this, I received 5 negative comments about how much Alannah Hill rips off other designers. I have had my head buried in cook books for a long time and definitely do not want to endorse a brand that is ripping off ideas of others. I will keep the below post up for you to make up your own mind, but, as a friend suggested to me, Google 'Alannah Hill Rips off designs' and make up your mind from there.

If you click here, you'll see she hasn't even been trying to hide it.

Anyway..

Alannah Hill has officially launched her very own online store - finally! Hopefully she influences the rest of the world. Surely stores have realised that without an online option, they are missing 80% of their shop front?

I did have a discussion with a girlfriend once about the way an online store may decrease your exlcusivity and therefore decrease 'it' factor. What do you think?

Either way, I like that Alannah includes little looks in her store, especially as her clothes are usually far from my style and I have serious trouble visualising them all put together. I hope to see these looks change regularly.

'Garden Glory' Look

Frock, $389

Cardi, $149 (on sale)

Belt, $49

Sugary Kisses shoe, $329

I love all things coral at the moment. Have you seen the amazing shade of Coral Kit NP available with this month's Shop til you Drop?

Pretty Baubles Jacket, $289 (on sale)

I may not have been posting for a long time, but my love of bows is alive and well. I'm not sure where the baubles are located...

'Little Ice Cream Face' Look

Cardi, $229

Skirt, $199

Goddam You!! Top, $169

Very cute, but not sure I could pull it off.

The Greatest Story Coat, $629

My favourite of everything online (or at least a draw with the bauble jacket). It's 86% wool and the remainder? Cashmere! So at least you're buying quality materials. I can't speak for the workmanship as I've never owned a piece.

Are you an Alannah Hill fan?

Have you started, or finished, your winter wardrobe for this season?

I started my winter wardrobe online in two orders (one a month ago, one yesterday). I can't wait to share it with you!

Nat x

Should I Buy This?

2011-04-13T21:45:00.003+10:00

Coat, ASOS, $75,71

In what colour? The red is sold out in my size which makes me sad. I'm pretty sure the only reason I want it is because of it's hood. I love a hooded coat.

Anyone else had good finds in the ASOS sale?

Nat x

Bad Blogger

2011-04-08T08:54:00.003+10:00

Dear Lemon Butter,

I am sorry for abandoning you for an uncountable amount of time. I got this house, you see, and my life started to revolve around cooking and home wares and learning to live and love life away from my parents and with my partner, M. All is well in the world of me so I do hope you have not been worrying. I missed you, so I've decided we should rekindle our relationship. I promise I won't post a recipe or opinion on a nutrition panel on your pages, I'll leave that to your little sister, Lemon Living.

I think it's a particularly good time to rekindle our relationship because, as I'm sure your finance-loving self would know, the Australian dollar is doing amazingly against the greenback. It is somewhat cruel of me to have not yet posted anything on your lovely self and as a result.

I will admit, through all my recipe book purchasing and fluffing of pillows, I have become a little disconnected from the world of the online shop. But I will reconnect for you, and we will again take many journeys together, just like old times.

I must admit that my spending may be limited compared to spending of the past. Lemon Butter, this is because I made the biggest purchase of my life, a house. I am a great saver, as you know, but I was unable to save the ridiculous amounts of money needed to buy my house, and now I have an oh-so-lovely thing we in human land call a mortgage. It's sole purpose is to take a very large chunk of clothing and make up buying money out of my bank account every 2 weeks in exchange for me having a place to cook. It's an OK deal, I guess, but I did really want the entire Country Road collection and 1400 cream blushes after speaking to my friend Mel (who swears by their fabulousness).

Anyway, to re-start our journey, I've had a bit of a look around the current online sales. It's about the time of year I start to crave winter-y items, so I'll focus on those.

ASOS Military Button Coat, $59.48 down from $135.19
(and since we last spoke, ASOS has implemented free shipping!)

Billion Jumper from Zoaex, $40 down from $90

Coccoon Cardigan from Joseph Saba, $199, enter code 'MISSY' for 30% off.

Genetic Denim 'Shane Cigarette', $147 (US, so cheaper for us!), down from $209.

Gestuz Plait Detail Knit Dress, $63.09 down from 198.28
Please buy a size too big in this dress, it looks terrible fitted.

Stila Perfecting Foundation Duo Pack, $15 (and with free shipping!)
I own this and love it as concealer - and heaps of shades are available.

Tibi Draped Jersey Dress, £143.62 down from £319.15.
I'm not sure you'll all be with me on this one, but I love it.

Deshabille Zerbrure Pyjamas, $39.95 down from $79.95It's the time to buy a new winter pj set. Def.

Ok wide world, what new online shops have popped up lately that I would have missed? I must revise my list!

What do you think of my Lemon Living blog? Have you had a read?

Nat x

Lemon Living

2011-01-11T14:44:00.003+11:00

This is where my true passions lie. I will still be here, in the butter-sphere, but my life, as it's become more about budget and mortgage, has also veered more towards other passions.

I love my readers here and I will continue to write here, but I truly hope you will follow me on my new journey;

http://www.lemon-living.blogspot.com/

Nat x

Happy New Year?

2011-01-03T21:02:00.005+11:00

I'm not so sure about the way the world works, guys. It seems I just spent 8 consecutive months, (lucky me, of course, most are 11-12), working 8 hours a day becoming very stressed and tired for a total of 6 days at the beach. I'm not entirely sure that balances and I'm certainly not happy about it. Apparently it gets easier as the years go by. It's been suggested that the first return to work after holiday, of which this is mine, will be the hardest and ones that follow will be less saddening. Is this true, or do we just come to accept that this is the only option? Which, mind you, I find incredibly hard to believe. I'm inclined to believe it's the easy option, I mean, the majority of people in our (lucky) country are able to secure a 9-5 job, but it takes a special type of person willing to take a risk to follow their non 9-5 dream.

Anyway, on a less solemn note, I hope you had an amazing Christmas break and fantastic New Years Eve celebrations. My break and celebrations were quiet, with few people and plenty of food and reading, which is exactly how I wanted it.

This time last year I wrote a post on how I don't believe in making or the power of New Years resolutions. I still don't really think a 01/01 date is going to make anyone change any bad habits, but I have jumped on the band wagon this year for what I hope is going to benefit my health;

I am going to be less diligent.

Sounds like the opposite of a usual New Years resolution to most, but to myself, who gets up at 5.50am every morning to do weights, then does 40 minutes of crdio after work, cleans the house on x day, must not eat carbohydrates for more than 1 meal a day, will eat broth for 3 days after a heavy eating day etc, it makes perfect sense. I think I put a lot of stress on myself and I think that needs to stop. Staying up at the beach is relaxing because I stop caring how many calories are in what I am eating, (I have calorie intake aims every day, normally), stop exercising because I have to and start doing it when I want to, (which is all the time when the scenery is the beach), and don't care that there are dishes in the sink and sauce on the stove. I've decided there's no reason I can't relax a little with those things at home. Besides, I am tired of caring what I weigh.

There are two other small changes I've decided on; I want to join a gym and I am going vegan for one month (this one).

Joining the gym is not the opposite of being less diligent, but more taking exercise out of the home making home a place purely for relaxing. Kind of like an extension of the bedroom is for sleeping.

Going vegan for the month was a decision I made very late on New Years Eve. I finished reading the book 'Skinny Bitch' for the 3rd time while on holiday, and I always dismiss the vegan lifestyle they suggest thinking I'd go mad and it's unnecessary, but after a lot of cheese and a late night NYE ice cream, I felt terrible and decided I can't really dismiss something until I try it, and so I am. I am only ignoring one thing, (I know that'll drive vegans mad just as vegetarians who 'just eat fish' drive me mad, so I apologise), and that is the milk solids in chocolate. So far, it's a lot easier than I thought and a total non-issue.

Now I am super interested to hear any New Years Resolutions / general life goals you have made, and any suggestions on how much is too much to pay for a gym membership, (total amateur is about to start searching).

Nat x

BIA

2010-12-19T20:58:00.002+11:00

Or, "Back In Action" for those playing at home.

How arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrre you?

What have you been uppppppp to?

I figured 1 month is long enough away from the blog-o-sphere, and besides, I really started to miss the place. Up until now life has been a bit too hectic to pay any attention to my lovely Lemon Butter page, but on this Sunday night after way (way) too much food, I think the time has come.

I've done a lot of things in the past month, the biggest being moving into my new home with M and all that comes with a big move. All in all I'm probably at the happiest place mentally, physically and spiritually I've ever been in my life and I'm irritatingly smiley about it.

I miss having my parents around always, of course, but moving out was especially hard because of my little darling Rama. I miss him so much. You really don't realise how great having a pet around is until you don't have him around any more. I even miss his unrelenting howl-meows. Apparently now if Mum asks him where I am, or 'Where's Natty?', he runs into my room and starts to meow. I visit him regularly. It's hard to leave.

Oh and that decal? Took all the wall paint with it. Sorry parentals.

This is post-sitting on the floor to eat for two weeks. This outdoor setting is M's parents' and it was super luxury after sitting on the floor. The couch belongs to my parents, ours are being delivered end of Jan/beginning of Feb.

Our bedroom. that's my bedroom furniture and I'm not the biggest fan against the floors, but it's fine for now/the next few years. That amazing piece in the corner is one of the two original chests my grandparents used to carry their clothing when they first came to Australia in the mid 1950s. They threw out the other one! I love it, one f my favourite things.

Yesterday, after a long wait, (they extended the ETA about 1,400 times), our furniture arrived.

Our gorgeous dining table. I'll show you more photos in the future.

Last night was my work Christmas party in Williamstown. This is C, my work bestie.

Our first meal at our table was breakfast this morning. Sitting down at a table for a meal makes it 10 times better in my books.

So what else has happened in the past month

Oprah came to Australia and I never want to see her face on my TV screen again. Srsly.

I got blonde foils again, super subtle though.

I bake Bechamel sauce and poached an egg for the first time.

I got became addicted to Spray n Wipe.

I bought a tiny Christmas tree (I will get a big one next year).

I learnt how to live on a grocery budget of $120pw (so far, so good).

I started to live with a boy (do they all love Playstation this much?)

I decided to try the Urban Remedy juice cleanse/detox. The juices are in my parents' freezer waiting for post-Christmas cleaning.

I'm also about to eat very purely for this working week as the amount of rubbish going into my body isn't going to leave in happy stomach room for Christmas day if I don't have a bit of a clean.

Welcome back, I hear you say.

Thank you!

Nat x

MIA

2010-11-18T21:34:00.001+11:00

I am Missing In Action guys. I am so super busy with every part of my life, (work, moving house, trying to relax), that I just haven't had the time to relax and bang out some fun blog posts.

I will be back.

I miss you more.

Nat x

Summer Routine

2010-11-08T20:25:00.003+11:00

Summer must be in the air as I've started my yearly Summer routine.

Every year, when I see a weather forecast with no temperature below 20 for a whole week on the news, I start to plan for Summer without even realising.

This year it started with an unhealthy fascination with blonde women. I started staring at pictures of models and pretty facebook friends, (read; all of them), with blonde hair. I then pulled up a photo of me last Summer at Phillip Island, just before I got my job, and saw my hair with foils in it. There wasn't a lot of blonde, but it was a big deal to hairdresser-chicken me.

The resemblance is amazing, yes?
Now I want blonde in my hair again. Do you think I should?

Then I started thinking about changing my sheets. I love my bed and how it looks, but white sheets get stained, especially by fake tan. So I am Summer nesting, and pulled my new, grey sheets out of their packet so I can wash them tomorrow. I can't reflect the beautiful 30 degree sun off my skin any more! Glowing is lovely when it's not glowing in the dark.

Last year's fake tan collection, and yes I am aware I have a problem.

Then comes the exercise regime! Man have I stepped it up the past 2 weeks. The new routine is going magnificently except for one small thing; the exercising in the morning is not relieving me of the exercise at night. I now do 20 minutes of weights and strength training or pilates in the morning before work, and 25 minutes of cardio after work, 6 days a week. I really hope my body starts to reflect it soon!

Then of course, the lemming of a new bikini.

Jets by Jessica Allen always do my favourites.

Zimmermann is never far behind (I wish I could pull this off)

Summer's incoming was sealed this afternoon on my way home from work, when I saw signs advertising cherries and mangoes for cheap on my usual path home.

If only I'd taken this photo.

Do you have a routine leading up to Summer?
I am super busy nesting in my soon to be home, so I might be late on Summer.

Speaking of our gorgeous home, M & I camped there on Saturday night. I cooked him dinner for his birthday, (which is today).

Cooking in my kitchen using my stuff. Amazing feeling.

Breakfast is the best meal.
And visited a lovely garden centre for inspiration.

OK Summer, bring on your sunny 35 degree days. I am more than ready...

Happy birthday to my beautiful boyfriend who will kill me for the PDA xx

Nat x

Hello November

2010-11-02T20:02:00.003+11:00

I love November and think it's the perfect time to plan, with Summer being 'next month' and not 'soon' now. I plan to not drink, (easily said as I write with the first hang over in about a year), and stop eating so much peanut butter out of the jar. In fact, how about no more peanut butter out of the jar, that sounds better.

Photo from Oroton campaign - it's inspired me to write down all new plans in a pretty fashion.

I also plan to try out the new routine I spoke about earlier starting tomorrow. The idea of getting up earlier while I feel like I feel is tough, but I'm committed. That reminds me, I need to choose an outfit for tomorrow. 16 degrees, let's hope it's the last chilly day of the year...

I made mushroom risotto last night and celebrated by taking a picture.

I have eggplant & asparagus with mine as my body doesn't like to eat too much rice.

It's already 8.14pm and I have a lot to do before strapping in for who dies on Packed to the Rafters, (my bet is Melissa. And yes, I do care, it's the only show I watch), so I'll be off.

Wish me luck for new routine trial. I'll let you know.

Nat x

House Work

2010-10-28T21:33:00.003+11:00

I have the best Dad in the world; he took the week off and is painting our house for us;

That's the wall at the of of our living area - the first wall painted (Hogs Bristle Half Strength, the rest of the house is Hogs Bristle Quarter)

Mum is now helping too & hopefully we finish it on the weekend.

Our fridge & washing machine arrive on Saturday, and our furniture in 2-3 weeks.

Most exciting stuff ever and I've never been less phased about not being able to open my online sale email alerts.

Nat x

A New Routine

2010-10-24T22:08:00.005+11:00

This post is inspired by a post on Zen Habits, which is a wonderful blog I've only just discovered. How incredibly slow of me.

In the post, Leo Babauta talks about a new, simplified morning routine he has set that makes him happy. He spends the hours after waking only doing things that make him happy, like sitting and reading. I've been thinking about changing my routine for a few weeks now, and this is the perfect trigger.

Current week day routine

(for 8-4 work hours, which are usually 8am-4.30pm), goes like this;

Wake at 5.50am

Watch the news

Shower, make up and hair 6.20-6.45am

Breakfast 6.45-7.10am

Brush my teeth

Choose an outfit

Get dressed, pack bag

Leave home at 7.30am

Get home around 5pm

Have a bite of something for energy

Get changed

Work out for 50 minutes

Shower

Start to cook dinner around 6.30pm

Eat 7-7.30pm

Potter around remainder of evening until 10pm when I slip into bed to either sleep or read for 30-60mins.

This is not a routine I am happy with.

Firstly, every part of my body except the part that wants to go back to sleep hates television as soon as I wake up, which is where I get my news from. Electronics at that time of the morning, (or this time of the night, but I'm on a roll), do not appeal to me at all. It doesn't feel natural.

Secondly, apart from 30 seconds of stretching, I get no movement into my morning. One of my favourite things, and something I do every weekend, is to get moving before breakfast. I would love to be able to walk or do pilates before work.

Another thing is the breakfast slot. I am not a fan of breakfast because it's breakfast time. I like to eat when I am very hungry, which I never am at 7am. At the moment, this breakfast time is purely a convenience thing as I answer all incoming calls at work, making it difficult to eat at the same time. It would make it especially difficult to consciously eat, which I am also big on.

Lastly, I hate decisions about boring things, (like what to wear), at that time of morning.

So what can I do? This is my idea.

Wake at 5.45am - a new alarm time.

I will stay in bed for 10 minutes, until 5.55am.

Get changed.

At 6am, I will do 30 mins of Pilates.

Shower, hair and make up from 6.30-7am

7am will be breakfast, but a lighter version, such as some fruit and herbal tea.

Brush teeth, get changed, and leave for work.

5pm arrive home.

Choose my outfit & pack my bag for the next day.

Go for a walk if I desire, but generally have the entire evening to cook, relax, do as I wish.

Sleep at 9.30pm to make up for the earlier wake time and get more sleep, which I think my body needs.

M suggested I try out a new routine for the 3 day week next week, (Melbourne Cup), and see how it goes. I am going to do this.

For now, it's 10.22pm and I need some sleep. This is not a part of any routine.

What do you think?

Do you have a similar routine to this, or is yours entirely different?

Does anyone out there have a routine that would be described as crazy by others?

Nat x

(photo from flickr)

Big Spender

2010-10-24T20:47:00.004+11:00

I made a decision Friday night to go shopping with Mum, (the best kind of shopping is always the kind where I'm with Mum). I had the shop itch, you know, gottabuysomethingwillgonuts, so I had to go. Yes I have a house now, or more importantly a home loan, (stop the press! She didn't have enough savings to pay cash!), but what good is a house without a life? None is the answer. And so decision that there's no point having somewhere to live if you can't live, I headed for the only place that isn't a beach and can still relax me.

This was the first time I went into Country Road's home ware section when I actually owned a home. I couldn't resist a little purchase, (I couldn't afford a large one). The 'MAIL' is a mail holder from Typo which is 100 kinds of awesome to me. Still trying to convince M.

Sale time! Khaki cardigan from Sportsgirl, ($29.95 + an extra 20% off sales items). Cardigan from El Cheapo shop, $7.99.I think the name was Choco Latte? Either way, I am rebelling against spending lots of money on work clothes, and this is the first step.
White tee from Witchery, $29.95 plus 30% off for their 20 days in 20 ways promo. I've needed a basic white round neck tee for ages.
Blood orange 3/4 sleeve top from Kookai, $20 marked down 50%. I am obsessed with the colour.

Showing some love to Kermie, my beautiful Parlux which was a gift from my parents for my birthday, (original name, I know). Wearing a pale blue Sportsgirl scarf also picked up on Friday. $9.95 plus an extra 20% off.

I fell head over heels for these perfect Oroton Frangipani sunglasses. I am saving.

M observing ugly curtains in our ensuite on Saturday, (they have since been removed). Why did they not install frosted glass? Prepping for painting and removing hideous cottage-y signs from doors, and the gorgeous view out of our bedroom once more.

Our house is being painted over the next week and I am super excited. We spent all weekend prepping her for the occasion.

Did I tell you we ordered our couches two weeks ago? They are coming late Jan/early Feb (I know, ridiculous).

We may or may not have ordered a dining table, 8 chairs, a buffet, a coffee table, a side table and a TV unit today. Due in 3-4 weeks.

Our fridge and washing machine are also being delivered this coming Saturday.

So, much, cash.
So, much, fun.
So tired!

Night.
Nat x

Princess Polly

2010-10-18T19:28:00.003+11:00

This little online boutique is advertised on my Facebook page every time I log in, so I thought, as I browsed, I would give the pieces I enjoy the most a little blog-air time.

No Suprises dress, $120

Butterflies top, $55

Litte Holiday dress, $65

Ascot Short, $75

Please don't ask me about quality, because I've never purchased here. To be honest, I'm not overly impressed with any of these designs, not for those dollars anyway. I think mainly I am giddy at the store name and wondering if I could live out my (just made up then) dream of owning a boutique named Nautical Nat. Prize of 'yay' to whoever guesses what it would sell. Can you tell I am tired?

My weekend was tiring with cleaning and sanding a house, but it's a very rewarding kind of tired. She will be painted next week as we can't stand the interior yellow.

Nat x

Today We Bought A House

2010-10-15T22:45:00.003+11:00

So this is why I've been so quiet; the most consuming thing to ever happen in my life has been something I haven't been able to talk about. Well, not until now. Today M & I settled on our new house, 2 months after signing the contract and 4 months after making the first offer.

First we had lunch to celebrate at the local.

'Enough - give me the camera'.

Then we got the call to inform us that our settlement had gone through. We picked up the keys and went to see our first home.

One of the happiest days of my life and I hope M's as well.

We are going to paint and then hopefully in about a month, move in!
I can finally show you all the house things I've bought.
Oh and, this explains all the budget shopping!

Nat x

Things I Learnt (This Week)

2010-10-14T20:41:00.004+11:00

Why everyone said nasty things about Sex & the City 2.
Finally saw it - worst movie ever, in every way.

That I really can do budget shopping.
Blazer from Ebay that arrived in the post today. Much higher quality than I expected.

That the strength of the Aussie coin is fun for all intensive (online shopping) purposes.
NARS from Kiss and Make Up.

That's is 'All Intents and Purposes' and not 'All Intensive Purposes' and I've been saying it wrong for years.Thanks to my lovely friend Bec.

Which trend I'll hate for the next 6 months.
Minnetonkas from Miijo.

That I need 6 fillings replaced.
And a root canal.
And my bottom wisdom teeth removed.
Photo from Flickr.

That Target have come up in the world.
I bought the skirt on the very right. Belt removed, it's gorgeous for work. This also reinforces what I said about budget shopping (check out that price!).

That I've been quiet on the blog front.
I've been busy, I'll tell you what with soon.

Hope you're all well, happy, and have marvelous plans for the weekend despite the rain.

Nat x

Stella for Target

2010-10-06T20:44:00.003+11:00

Round 2 of Stella McCartney for Target. I am super, super liking this round and seriously considering lining up for some of it. Best to start working my 'step aside ladies' muscles from now because I imagine, for items that are this good, there will be a stampede.

My favourites;

Collarless Jacket, $199

Ribbon Tie Dress, $149

Frame Clutch, $69

Rouched Panel Top, $119

Tulip Dress with Tie, $199

Short Jacket, $179

Lace Dress, $199

Can I also say that I think the model is amazing? I can?

I think the model is amazing.

If you've been under a rock/not on the internet for a week, check out the full range here. It's worth visiting - there are videos.

See you October 29th.

Nat x

Amazing Find

2010-10-05T20:42:00.002+11:00

$29.95, from Brightlife
"This shimmering satin bedspread with a full ruffled bed skirt and a classic diamond quilt design on top will turn a bedroom from dull to glamourous in seconds."
I am sad that I need charcoal and can't compromise to pink.
Nat x

Bujé

2010-10-03T16:00:00.005+11:00

With house buying/planning on doing so, comes saving. With saving, comes a budget. With a budget comes searching high & low for Country Road on a Supre budget, (although I think Supre has increased in price a fair amount since I was 16?).

So can you get nice, quality, stylish clothing on a budget?

Well this weekend I decided yes. After a lengthy discussion with a friend about khaki pants and the perfect t-shirt, and a story she told me about some nice cargo-like khaki pants she saw someone else with for $50 from Cotton On, I set out on Saturday for a budget clothing search.

What did I find?

(I wonder if Mel knew I was taking photos while on the phone to her)

Both from Jay Jays, and $55 for both, (there is a special where if you spend $50 you get $10 off).

I am wrapped. The denim shorts, ($30), are actual denim, and will be perfect for the beach, and although the photo doesn't show it they are slightly high waisted with I love. The slim fit cargo pants, ($35), are really light weight and fit me perfectly. I don't like them without the hem rolled up but that's a very small price to pay for the price I paid.

I am wrapped in what you can do on a budget!

Where do you go for quality low-cost pieces?

And can someone please tell me what colour sheets to get for my all-white bed? I can't fake tan because my sheets are all white!

Nat x

My Essentials

2010-10-01T20:59:00.002+10:00

Directly stolen from Sarah Wilson, because I'm going through a Sarah Wilson Obsession phase.

1. What I wear: Baggy long sleeve cotton tops. One is pink, one is grey, and they were on special at Bardot about 2 years ago. I bought them because I thought they'd help protect from the sun in Summer, but I wear them everywhere from tucked into trousers for work, to layered over tight cotton tops in winter, to over a bikini top and denim cut offs in Summer. I'm actually kind of scared of them wearing out or getting stained because I rely on them so much.

2. What I eat: Muesli. I am obsessed with muesli. Breakfast, lunch substitute, after work snack, dessert - all the time. I make my own and usually use oats, bran, sultanas, almonds and dried apple as a staple. At the moment I have no apple and have added shredded coconut and dried apricot. I also have a Macro Whole Foods one I got at Thomas Dux, (you can also get it in Safeway), that has sesame seeds in it and works really well with everything.

3. How I hydrate: Water. I actually had a blood test result come back once indicating I drink too much of it and the Doctor told me to slow down. Usually by 10am I've drunk a litre, and up to 4 through out the day, (usually it's this high in Summer). I love how refreshing water is and I drink a glass before and after every meal. I can't get enough.

4. My favourite thing to do when I’m a bit flat: Be in the sunshine is the number 1 thing. I think because I spent so long unwell out of the sun, I appreciate it so much more. If I'm feeling drained at work I even step outside for 30 seconds and stand int he sun, (when it's around), to pep back up. I also love grocery shopping and cooking.

5. My other favourite thing to do when I’m a bit flat: See my chiropractor or go to my hairdresser to get my hair washed.

6. My favourite smell: Rosewater. I have a perfume that smells just like it from Le Desire, and I spray my pillow with it if I can't sleep. I find it extremely calming and I've no idea why.

7. My essential online aid: Plain old Gmail. I don't know how I'd keep in touch with anyone or up to date with anything without it.

8. What I do for fun: Walk in the sunshine, have coffee with a friend, wander around shops alone (I love to be alone) and cook up healthy invented recipes.

9. How I feel better: Eating really healthy and balanced. A really clean diet for two days in a row makes my body function better and feel amazing, as well as clears my mind. I just ate too many choc chip cookies in celebration of having worked 6 months, (yay!), and I know it's OK because I have to weekend to clean my body.

10. What nourishes me: The beach. Anywhere near the beach and everything in me is calm.

11. What also nourishes me: Hugs. So under rated.

12. My guilty pleasure: There are 3 big ones; peanut butter is the winner, (Coles brand crunchy), followed by glasses of wine (rose and semillon at the moment), followed by magazine reading (I am a junkie).

13. My favourite feelings: Sun on my skin, being genuinely sleepy and somewhat strangely, being really hungry. I love the feeling of hunger.

What are your essentials?

I really, really love Fridays since I started working.

Happy 6 month work anniversary to me!
Nat x

Beach

2010-09-27T19:11:00.007+10:00

I think M & I chose the best weekend ever to make our first trip in circa 3 months to the beach.

Hello Spring!

That photo really doesn't do it justice.

I really super want a nice beige t-shirt, (pictured from YesStyle).

I swear I've searched half of Melb, (and can't afford the Bassike one at the moment).

Current happy life maker; strawberries for breakfast.

Nat x

Photographs

2010-09-22T19:47:00.003+10:00

First, some useless outfit pictures. No, I have not improved with age.

Me inspired to wear a 6 year old jacket. I knew I'd want a khaki jacket again.

Easiest ever work outfit.

Second easiest.

This stuff is revolting and I can't believe anyone likes it.

Amazing noodles were found while starving on Bridge Road.

Mama and Papa gave me birthday roses.

I went and fed the swans that I see every time I go for a run. They live in a little damn by themselves away from the others. They're adorable.

Best.

Work Wife.

My work place buys the most amazing cakes.(Birthday Lemon Meringue Pie)

A special thanks to Mr. M for taking me wherever I wanted to go all weekend and not complaining at all. Also to my beautiful family for an amazing dinner. I like everyone together.

It's nice to be 24.
Nat x

With Every Birthday...

2010-09-16T19:59:00.003+10:00

There comes a wish list.

Here is mine;

Pink Corporation Kaitlyn Bag

Dinner at Ezard Restaurant, Melbourne

Parlux Hairdryer

Bassike Scoop Neck V Tee in Sand

J Brand Houlihan Trousers

Kit Shop Loves Ocean Nail Polish

Queens Wardrobe Blouse

Lanolips Rose Hand Balm

Breakfast at Replete Providore Melbourne

Macarons from Cacao

Some new Pilates DVDs, a subscription to Good Health Magazine, a work-out hoodie, a cream blazer and cook books would also be nice. As well as a pay rise to afford it all.

If it was your birthday on the weekend, what would you want?

Nat x

My Year

2010-09-12T21:47:00.004+10:00

Next Sunday, the 19th of September, will mark my 24th birthday. I love birthdays, I always have. I guess it's because it brings about two things I always enjoy; good food and loads of attention, (I can't help it, I love attention).

I've spent most of this evening trying to plan my birthday weekend. As far as I'm concerned, the 4-5 days, up to a week, surrounding the actual day of your birthday is a time to be completely selfish and demand things you usually wouldn't get. For me, this involves making my entire family sit down to a vegetarian meal, (veggie burgers or sheppard's pie made of lentils at this stage), having M cater to whatever I want to do and dressing up a little too much for not a whole lot. I also try to have all my friends, who have nothing to do with each other except at my birthday and sometimes Christmas, come together for dinner. Unfortunately, I can't get them all in the same place at the same time this year, (this makes me sad).

Every year as I plan, I also reflect back on the year just had.

What a year this one has been.

My 23rd birthday saw me have dinner outside at a restaurant with my friends for the first time since my 20th. I had serious dreams of spending Summer at the beach house, (and did), and was contemplating going back to part time correspondence study.

My 4 closest girlfriends at my 23rd dinner.

My 24th birthday sees me fitting in my birthday selfish-self between full time work weeks. I exercise regularly, photograph everything (because life is amazing), and have plans to return to University. M & I shoot down to the beach house every sunny weekend we get, and we're seriously looking at buying a house together. I own pots, pans, knives, and everything else you'd ever need in your kitchen cupboards. I seriously value my 1000 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets and I go to Coles on Thursdays to check out what's on special for the week.

Boy life has changed. I love it!

With that, I am inspired. 23 was the age I wanted to start work. My whole aim was to get a job, even if it was part time, even if it was part time and online, I wanted to make my own money. I wanted that 'normality'. I got it!

So what do I want for 24? I've always set the bar high, and I seem to keep reaching it, so here goes nothing;

-More than anything, I want to buy a house with M and make a home together.

-I want to return to study. I believe I've found my passion, and that is nutrition.

-I want to progress in my current job, whatever form that takes.

-I plan to become the fittest I have ever been.
-This needs to combine with the best lifestyle through food I can muster, (I would say diet, but I hate the word), to become the healthiest I have ever been.
-I want to stop taking all the medication I still take.

There it is, what I want to do over the next year.

And I will do it.

I love birthdays so much.
When is yours?
Do you believe in star signs?
Me? No. I am so the opposite of every Virgo trait I have ever been told about.

I am so happy at the moment. I hope that comes through in my posts, even a little. Life is so fantastic! I find myself springing into work on Monday. I must be so incredibly annoying.

Smiling in the heat last Summer. So happy just to be.
(and so excited 'just to be' in warm weather again!)

Nat x

Junior Masterchef

2010-09-12T20:11:00.002+10:00

No show has ever made me feel more uncomfortable, and in so many ways. Forget that I didn't know to top and tail french beans when I was 8 or 12 years old, it would've have mattered anyway; I wasn't allowed to use a knife sharp enough. I wouldn't have even been able to identify a truffle let alone know what to do with it, (I don't know how to do that now!), I would've said 'marscapone' as 'mask-a-pone', and surely tempering chocolate was something you did to calm it down when it was angry?

Matt Preston standing over you before you've left primary school? Surely enough for nightmares!

What is this? Is it a set up? Does anyone know any children that can actually cook like this?

Forgetting the freakish cooking talent of these kids, there's something that bothers me far, far more. Yes, they are being incredibly kind and giving the kids guidance but ultimately, they are pinning kid against kid and making it a big competition.

"You are not as good as those kids over there".

It doesn't matter how they say it, they are saying it. That sort of competition amongst kids is not something I like, and it's incredibly uncomfortable to watch. Almost as bad as watching the kid beauty pageants - they're just being judged on something else.

Am I the only one thinking this?

Nat x

Baby Blue

2010-09-10T21:42:00.002+10:00

I am currently obsessed with anything blue, especially baby blue. I think it's a mix of craving for clear skies, and craving for the ocean.

Kit Nail Polish "Shop loves Ocean" - Lonely Hearts Deuce Dress - American Apparel Sailor Sweater - Pantone Espresso Cup - Spalding Yoga Mat - Kikki K Storage Box - Stila Blue Bonnet Palette -Blue Chocolate Hearts - Blue Topaz Earrings

I want to wear lots of baby blue this Spring/Summer, especially mixed with taupe. I'm seriously starting to hate black and I'm getting more and more obsessed with all things pastel.

Is there a baby blue flower? I want baby blue flowers.
Wat flavour would a baby blue macaroon be?

Happy weekend!

Nat x

Do you, Detox?

2010-09-09T21:37:00.000+10:00

Lately an unusually high percentage of my friends and acquaintances, as well as blogger's posts I have been reading, having been doing detoxes. I'm hugely guilty of declaring I am starting a detox of one sort of another every 3 minutes, but logically, scientifically, I guess, I don't actually believe it's of any benefit.

Let me point out that when I say detox, I mean cutting out major food groups. An example of this was the latest detox I was reading about which was named the 'basic detox', (apparently the simplest and most 'common sense'). This particular plan involved slowly phasing out alcohol and caffeine, which I thought was great, but once they're gone you move onto sugar, wheat and dairy. Sorry, what? Sugar for a while, OK, I can understand, especially as you're probably getting enough through various other non-obvious sugar sources and fruit, but wheat and dairy? That makes it sound like it's assumed all of us have varying levels of gluten and lactose intolerance, which I certainly don't agree with.

The most prominent detox at the moment seems to be the Urban Remedy Cleanse.

This detox is trendy, and I mean trendy, and I admit I am just as curious as the next person and have hounded everybody I know that's gone near it about how it's gone. But, just juice for 5 days for the great price of $325? Surely we've all gone nuts.

Detoxes, including the above, promise to eliminate toxins. OK, fantastic if you live on fast food 6 days of the week, but beyond that, what is a toxin? Personally I don't think dairy and wheat would come under toxins unless you have the above intolerances.

Mum often tells me about her days at the gym well before I was around, and how much the gym fanatics promoted eating carbs, as many carbs as possible, and not just wholegrain ones. Amazingly, gym obsessives in the 80s and 90s had just as amazing bodies as the ones now.

I'm concerned it's all gone a bit nuts. Don't even get me started on colonic irrigation!

So, do you detox?
If so, what does detox mean for you?

I'll leave you with words from my nutrition idol, Janella Purcell;

"I don’t believe it’s healthy to put your body through a massive detox, which have been the trend for some years now. It puts way too much pressure on your body and your liver releases too many toxins at once, making you feel nauseous, lethargic and cranky with the added bonus of nasty headaches."

Why would anyone want to do that without proof it makes any difference to anything?

Nat x

The Hubby Survey

2010-09-06T20:25:00.004+10:00

Even though he's not my hubby, M is a huge part of my life & has been for a long time.

Inspired by/Stolen from Domestic Divinity

How long have you been together: 9 years in October.

How old is he? We're the same age, so both soon to be 24. Yes, young to be together so long, but please don't call us high school sweet hearts! Drives us nuts and we have changed so much since those days.

Who said I love you first? M actually. He wrote it on a piece of paper in a science class. I still have that somewhere, (even if he was too young to really mean it yet, I still adore it).

Who eats more? Me, definitely, once I get into eat mode. M isn't a huge eater and doesn't have the huge passion for food I have. He eats to live, I live to eat. I think I shock him with how much sometimes.

Who is taller? M is.

Whose temper is worse? I'd like to say it's a close call, but I know it isn't.

Who does the laundry? We don't yet live together, but I definitely do more laundry as an individual.

Who sings better? I'd like to think I sound fantastic against the car radio, but I'm pretty sure we'd come equal last on this.

Very old pic of M making fun of me posing. I was very sick here.
Who is smarter? M is the smartest person I know, alongside my father. Not to say I am silly, of course.

Who does the dishes? M is quite good at cleaning if I cook.

Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? M does. That's the boy side as far as I'm concerned.

Who pays the bills? Completely equal and when we live together it is planned to be completely shared. I already take charge of some and him of others that are shared. I hate being out of the loop so I'd never let him do it all.

Who mows the lawn? When we have one, it will be M's job, (and this will be the first he's heard of it). I wouldn't do it properly anyway.

Who cooks dinner? Me, unless there's steak and Mum's around, then M. He helps if he's around, though.

Who drives when you are together? M all the time. I'm not a fan of driving.

Who is more stubborn? Me. Without doubt!

Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Neither.

Whose parents do you see the most? Probably mine as while we're still at home M stays over a lot, (more space), but I do make a point of visiting his house once a week too.

Who has more friends? I'd say M has more friends, but I am closer to mine.

Who has more siblings? Equal. Sister for M, brother for me.

Was it love at first sight? No way - I used to despise him for various high school reasons.

Nat x

Beautiful Weekend

2010-09-05T16:25:00.005+10:00

.. and it's not even over! Tonight there is a Fathers Day Feast a'la Natalie's familia, (does that make sense?), to come. The two roasts don't interest me, obviously, but the huge amount of antipasto & giant apple pie at the end could be pleasant. A bit of Semillon, (my favourite), and some Rose from the family vineyard, (have I told you about that?), and I am set!

Anyway, the weekend started well with my ZOAEX items being on my bed waiting for me when I got home. They were individually packed in brightly coloured packets with bright stickers to conceal - very Spring of you ZOAEX.

Very, very happy with the items. Both fit great, very cute, very soft 100% cotton. Definitely worth the $18 a piece. Not sure about $120 or whatever they claimed to be pre-sale, but I'd put it at the same quality as my American Apparel tees. In fact, the white one is closer to Bassike, which I was super impressed with. Highly recommend.

Do you think I'd get away with this on a super hot summer's day as a dress?

I'm thinking maybe at the beach.

I spent Friday night with M, talking way too much about things he wasn't particularly interested in by the sounds of it. Saturday morning we woke up to cold, wind & rain. We were out of the house by 10am, (impressed?), and off to search for a kettle. We bought a Russell Hobbs electric one.

The lovers who hide under our pergola whenever it rains.
M's Mum's birthday was last week and I didn't get to see her, so I decided it was appropriate to do some baking as a gift, especially as the weather was particularly bake-friendly.

Choc-chip biscuits and oat slice, both from an old Women's Weekly cook book of Mum's. Very yummy.

Before we headed out to M's parents house to have coffee and eat the above, we fashioned some bruschetta out of groceries we picked up along side the butter, choc chips and eggs.

The two on the left are mine. Traditional tomato, basil, bocconcini and fresh olive oil after garlic-rubbing the bread for me.

A happy drowned rat with her bruschetta.

Saturday night was a quiet one for me. M went home for work-related exam study. I did a face mask, (to review soon), and read magazines in bed. I made a tofu & eggplant stir fry and learnt to never use silken tofu in stir fry again, but it tasted amazing anyway. I generally acted like a princess all alone and I loved it.

This month's Vogue cover shot scares me. She does not look good, to me, at all.

This morning I took Dad out for breakfast for Fathers Day, and then went for a walk to work off the deliciousness that was fresh fruit, toasted muesli, yoghurt & raisin toast. We saw a duck with way too many ducklings. Dad decided she was running the lake's child care centre.

After cleaning my room & finally finding my group certificate so I could lodge my tax return, (first time I've ever done it), I went down to the local with my grandparents and sat and had a beer with Nonnoo, (grandfather), while Nonna played the pokies. It was really

I had a beautiful weekend.

How was yours?

What did you do for Dad?

2 weeks until my birthday...

Nat x

Which is Sexier?

2010-09-04T09:00:00.000+10:00

OR

?

Nat x

Spring Into..

2010-09-01T17:49:00.002+10:00

Happy Spring everybody! My alarm went off at 5.50 this morning for work and it was raining. Big sigh, but then - bird chirping! Even through the rain. It was beautiful and I immediately smiled as I knew today was the furtherest I could be away from Winter. Let's hope I don't make the mistake of longing for Winter again next year.

Of course Spring has inspired me to start bringing more colour into my world. Today I wore a royal blue top to work, (I will photograph recent clothing purchases when I get the ZOAEX order I made from the previous post), and on the weekend I finally got my hands on the David Jones Cosmetics brand lipstick in 'Sunburst', which I've wanted ever since attending the last Primped LookBook event, (which I am incredibly, beyond words upset that I didn't get into this year!).

The real question; Do you think I can pull it off?

Not the best lighting or the cleanest mirror, but it's all I've got for now.

Now to share with you some emails I got today in what I can only assume is celebration of Spring.

Amazing new arrivals from Runway Girl. Somebody please give me a reason to wear that maxi!

An offer from Donut King (get the voucher here, here or HERE). Excellent if you eat donuts. Personally, I just liked the image. So bright! Simple things...

A wonderful new gift with purchase from Clinique counters.

A gorgeous image from DDG's Spring outfit inspiration gallery.

Gorgeous retro milk bottles from GlamourPuss (and if it's still September 1st when you read this, the offer of 15% off with the code "SPRINGVIP").

Online Priceline Catalogue, (hello, lover), and the start of their 30 days of Fashion & Beauty month. How could this not make you want to colour your face in?

Last bit definitely not least, Country Road's True Blue venture, and finally, FINALLY, news of an official online store!

You heard it here first; Country Road caught up with the rest of the world.

Now here's to that online store having sales and the beginning of sunny weather.

What excites you most about Spring?

For me? 18 days until my birthday. I adore my birthday.

Now about that lippie.... Whaddya reckon?

Nat x

ZOAEX Sale

2010-08-30T19:27:00.003+10:00

Who? Good question.

Has anyone ever bought from Zoaex.com.au?

I can't really find any reviews or comments on the quality. Maybe I should just take the risk and get back to you guys - it's for the greater good, right? Research! Yes, that's what it is.

"Oxyn"

$25 down from $70

"Millan"

$18 down from $70

"Wonder"

$18 down from $110

What is this stuff made of for it to originally be that expensive? Did anyone actually pay that?

Very confused.

Now, to buy or not to buy. That is the question.

Nat x

Pastel

2010-08-29T13:48:00.002+10:00

I finally went shopping this weekend and I am overwhelmed by the amount of pastel out there. Only having looked at catalogues & magazines the past few weeks, I was sure it was going to be equally balanced with khaki green & nautical. I was wrong!

Inspired, I bought 3 work tops; two cream, one a dirty dark pink (yet to photograph), and some dark beige trousers for work. I am absolutely loving the pastel.

Forever New Dress - Witchery Shorts - Bardot Blazer - Sportsgirl Pullover - Style Stalker Jacket - Queens Wardrobe Blouse - Alegorie Bangle - Swarovski Earrings - Cacao Macaroons - Whiteport Shower Cap

I was in Forever New yesterday and, when you walk into the store, it feels like walking into a giant bag of marshmallows. I adore the Fins Jacket from Stylestalker and those Swarovski earrings were requested by M's sister for her 21st, and we obliged, (they're beautiful). I have a new found obsession with macaroons since eating the most amazing rose macaroon yesterday, (I am obsessed with everything rose flavoured/scented), and that is the little shower cap I bought myself last week.

What do you think of all the pastel?
Do you think we're going to look back on ourselves in 10 years and wonder what we were thinking?
Do you think we're going to do that anyway?

Do you like the bright pink lip with the pale pink blazer look (as above)?

Nat x

The Weekend I....

2010-08-22T14:59:00.003+10:00

Visited my grandparents with M. This is the lovely Avenue of Honour near their house.

Attended M's sister, C's 21st at Docklands and finally wore the NF by Nicola Finetti dress I got a few weeks back.

Added up how many calories I eat a day. About 1400-1600, I am happy!

I decided Keiko (photo from Lookbook)was the most beautiful woman for the weekend.

I took a photo of Rimmel Grey Matter 60 second nail polish outside of the bottle.

Got weirdly excited about a $6 cookbook on soups I picked up from our work book collection.

Took a photo of my staple, predictable weekend Winter outfit, (add black coat or leather jacket, and I'm out the door), to have it turn out like this. So accidentally 'arty', (I'm not lying this time, my camera really did that!)

Learnt that if I had an upcoming fashion label and I needed a photographer in Melbourne, I'd hit up Lisa. (Go on, I know you've all got your own lines that need photographing....).

Saw the sky look like this.

Got really excited about September!

& couldn't be bothered writing.

How was your weekend? I'm about to make a big batch of vegie curry and I'm excited.

Nat x

Where is the Line?

2010-08-16T20:29:00.006+10:00

So lately I have noticed a lot of outfits being posted by fashionista's, (gosh I hate that word), are getting a bit close to weird for my liking. So where do we draw the line? Or is it a matter of it being in style to push boundaries right now?

Stockholm Streetstyle

LookBook

The Sartorialist

Melbourne Street Fashion

What I hate most is the ability of these outfits to make my, what I always saw as classic, dress sense, feel boring. I start to doubt myself which is not something I often do and certainly don't like doing it, but if I were to slip on any elements of the above outfits, it would be down-right not me. At all.

So girls, (& guys?), I ask you;
Where do you draw the line between fashion and just plain weird outfit?
Is there no line due to expression of yourself through what you choose to wear?

I think expression is important, but does that make the above outfits photographed for their excellent use of clothing to express, or because the clothing is stylish? Or is it just stylish to express through clothing?

Does style not come into it at all, is it just fashion?

Circle talking,
Nat x

Work Wardrobe

2010-08-15T18:11:00.003+10:00

It's nearing Spring, and I am noting more and more the lack of warm-weather work attire I have. Jumpers, knitted dresses and trousers are plentiful, as are pencil skirts, but who wants to be stick in a pencil skirt on a 35 degree day? Yes, I realise I'm probably not going to see 35 degrees on my morning weather show any time soon, but a girl's got to plan.

So, in light of saving for a house and buying 1400 items for future house, I've decided to start trying to do the work clothes thing on a budget.

Yesterday, M and I visited DFO. It was actually M's idea, he needed to visit Aquila, but would I protest to DFO? You know the answer to that.

Ojay was the first port of call, but I wasn't impressed. Then, Saba. I always find something in Saba. I got a beautiful button-through white shirt. It was $65 down from $110. This is budget, yes? Excellent quality reduced in price must equate to budget.

This Barkins Top was the next purchase, (in white). I'll have to wear a singlet underneath because it's see through, but that's OK. Barkins is a great brand for budget work wear. This was only $35.

To be honest, that's all I bought for the day. But it's got me on the hunt for more budget work wear.

Asos Pleat Front Top - Witchery Navy Silk Blouse - IDS Ruffle Dress - Hael Jersey Frill dress - Bardot Puff Sleeve Tee - Ally X Print Dress

Yes, no pants there. Cheaper pants do not fit me properly!
A girl I work with wears a lot of clothes from Valleygirl to work and she always looks great.

Girls in offices everywhere - where do you shop for your work clothes?

Happy Monday!
Nat x

Best Since Sliced Bread

2010-08-12T21:41:00.005+10:00

What is it? Well, you probably got the email today as well, but just in case;

http://www.hopshopgo.com/

Let me rephrase that into terminology more suitable;

Easy access to Sephora

If you don't know what Sephora is, you are probably going to be incredibly bored with the rest of this post.

OPI for Sephora. Seriously.

That's a NARS blush for $26. Yes it's USD, but that's still under $30AUD. Woo!

Cargo, how I have missed you.

Have I ever told you about my white teeth obsession?
This post could go on forever, but you're better off wasting your night on surfing Sephora, (and every other US shopping site you thought was out of reach, ever).

Like I will.
Nat x

PS. Before you say it, yes I have heard of other mail forwarding sites before. This is just better.

Dear Tony

2010-08-10T20:32:00.001+10:00

I don't get it.

Nat x

Nothing/Everything

2010-08-09T19:49:00.003+10:00

I've still got this nasty virus. I'm spending work days dizzy and heavy headed, staying in the left lane whilst driving and drinking too much peppermint tea with my Sudafed, (which seems to be doing nothing). As a result, I did not a whole lot on the weekend. In light of this, and all the things spinning in my head, I have decided to do a lazy blog post of.

10 (mini) posts in 1.

I want these boots. Bad.

We bought this toaster. M won the 2 or 4 slice debate, (actually, I gave up).

Product Review; Awesome. A++. Really works at covering dark circles. Feels nice. Blends well. Awesome prod.

An apple a day keeps the Doctor away?

My awesome diet is not keeping this bug at bay.
Hey hey..

Loving and wondering whether to buy this jacket.

I painted my nails in Rimmel Grey Matter. Still doesn't dry in 60 seconds, but has an awesome brush and I quite like the colour. 2 coats to completely opaque is good by me.

Getting overdrive obsessed with wanting a house.

Looked at and decided I didn't like much of the new Country Road collection.

Cleaned out hard drive. Found shot of Abbey Lee I used to adore (and still do).

Searching budget meals for when I have a house.

Anyone with remedies for head cold extreme dizziness?

Nat x

Myer Vs. David Jones

2010-08-06T21:25:00.004+10:00

Forget the federal election! Myer and David Jones is where it's at; Who wins for you?

I've always had my favourite, and the latest round hasn't changed that.
I am insanely in love with all the nudes.

Who's yours?
Do you care about the DJs scandal enough to change your view of DJs?
Do you understand how anyone could think Jennifer Hawkins is anorexic?
Do you like Abbey Lee's hair cut?

Nat x

PS. Just kidding guys. Federal politics is obviously important.
Maybe one of them should start dressing Julia....

Skin Detox

2010-08-05T15:07:00.002+10:00

I don't know about the rest of the world, but my skin after Winter and as a result of this virus has gone nutso. I have spots everywhere, some that aren't fading properly, and some that I probably shouldn't have scrubbed as hard as I did, (make that definitely shouldn't have). Add that to the big freeze outside followed by the big warm in, and the extra make up being piled on every day because it's condition is not improving, and you have my current face.

So it's time for a skin detox.

The tools (welcome to my bathroom cupboard);

Shiffa Aromatic Facial Cleanser - Shiffa Skin Balancing Facial Toner - A'Kin Rosehip Oil - Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Oil - Neostrata Ultra Smoothing Lotion - Bio Oil - Queen Helene Mint Julep Mask - Garnier SOS Spot Pen - Blistex Lip Conditioner

It may look silly, calling it a detox and putting all this stuff on my face, but this is what works for me.

The plan;
Lighter on the make up base, touch face less and stop scrubbing it to try and fix everything - it doesn't work! Also increase the water drinking. It's still at circa 2 litres a day, but my skin responds better to 3-4 litres. I enjoy drinking water a lot less in Winter, so I've started mixing the water cool water with the instant boiling water at work.

The (hopeful) result;

Or something like it...

I'll bare all on the last day of August, and I refuse to bare spots on the net, so, here goes...
Have you ever done a skin detox?
I am, of course, eating skin friendly foods at the same time, (as a vegetarian, this means hello, walnuts & fresh olive oil!)

Nat x

PS. Did anyone manage to read this month's Vogue (Australia) and not come out wanting a Tom Form lipstick?

Drool..

Spring/Summer!

2010-08-03T14:07:00.005+10:00

I can smell it guys! It seems like it was yesterday I was rabbiting on about how much I couldn't wait to wear warm coats, boots and too many layers for Winter. How, oh how, did I ever get over the sunshine? What is that?

Are you excited?

Pages from current Myer Catalogue

Gorman
Too fun.

Gorgeous Shot from Chiara

Forever New

Amazing Rachel Gilbert.
I wish I had an occasion (I'd wear this as a wedding dress).

Anu P on Lookbook

Camilla & Marc

Luckily, my beautiful Melanie (of Ampersandmel) messaged me today while I am still home & sick, (booo), and my internet is down, to book us into Melbourne Spring Fashion Week!

Are you going?
Even the ad makes me excited!

Nat x

My Brand of Sad

2010-08-02T13:53:00.003+10:00

This post is inspired by Sarah Wilson's blog post by the same name. I decided to join her because it's been bought to my attention a lot lately how different people become sad for very different reasons, and act sad in very different ways, so her post really resonated with me.

I get sad about once a fortnight. It's not usually about much, or just a result of one-too-many tiny little things going incredibly wrong. As Zoe Foster aptly described them in her interview with Mia Freedman on mamamia.com.au, I get "Princess tears". Everything piles up and I find myself incredibly upset, but completely unable to define why. You'll often hear me say to M, "I just need to be sad now, OK?". I often replace sad with angry and announce that, too.

Strangely, large things don't upset me. Illness, or horrible stories on the news, don't upset me. I think it's a result of so many years of ME/CFS and knowing that any heightened emotion made me feel worse, I've just kind of learnt to not let anything exterior effect me too much. I do sympathise with and I certainly don't like horrible news or hearing about dire situations or illness in others, but I can't let it break me down, especially as in most cases I can't help.

Why doesn't my current brand of sad make me sick? Because it's 'release' sad. It lets me be sad and feel better and I like it.

To deal with this brand of sadness, I eat muesli, or cereal, or peanut butter, or vegemite on toast - basically anything that M would call a 'breakfast food', will make me feel better. I got home from work just before, (yes, it's early, I left unwell), and ate my salad sandwich, followed by a couple of teaspoons of peanut butter and way too much muesli. I was sad not that I feel unwell, but that I was using too many sick days. Silly and completely illogical, I know, most of my sadness is.

What's your sadness like?

You can read Sarah's blog post here.

Nat x

Dreaming

2010-07-31T21:53:00.004+10:00

Hey guys, remember me? I used to blog sometimes circa ages ago, (AD). I fell off the band wagon when I contracted The Cold of the Century, (also a game show with a jackpot of a lifetime supply of Codral), but I'm back, here, sniffling and whining loudly.

What I've been dreaming of lately...

.... having a place to put this lamp. I have no idea why this particular lamp appeals to me so much, but I just want to stick it somewhere near a beautiful vase full of cream roses and a stack of really old books. A fire place crackling in the background wouldn't hurt.

This is Lisa. I forget how I found her, I think an old friend used to date her or something ridiculous like that. She doesn't know me and I highly doubt she knows I stare at her blog, SOIHADTOSHOOTHIM, but I do. I think she's a model or photographer, no both. If she's not, she should be. Such an intriguing person and I've never seen someone pull off red lips as well. I've never commented, just one of those ones I stalk. I've been dreaming I was as brilliant a photographer, and could pull off a red lip as well, and was her best friend (or something).

Slightly less ambitious dream; owning this toaster. M and I can get in a proper kerfuffle discussing whether a 4 slice toaster is necessary for 2 people. I say yes, I don't want to have to toast twice if we both want two slices. He says no, if you want two slices you just get up and do it again and at least you get hot toast both times. Feel free to weigh in. (OK, that's two home items, anything on your mind, Natalie?).

Dreaming that I had the guts/idiocy/lack of people to tell me it was stupid to post all the photos I took ages ago, (January), like the one above that were for a blog post that never was, (I have more of them than actual posts). That's just a body suit, the camera does pan lower but I cropped it, and I posed like a fool to get maybe 3 good shots, (I thought I was Chiara, or some sort of Brown Salad), and I had a whole body confidence issue written out. Why? Because I freaked out taking some of the photos at the start, but then began to love myself sick. I wrote about how much I adored my body, whatever the shape, because of what it had pulled me through. I didn't retouch a single photo and a few dimples were prevalent, but to this day, looking at those photos, I still know I loved my body most right in those moments. I was better, and I looked better, and it was amazing just appreciating that and capturing it, (all be it stupidly vainly). I'll never post those photos, incredibly self indulgent and silly, but it's a great memory and was fun pretending I was a model and could get away with it like 1000s of other bloggers for a few hours.

Now this Oroton, yes, this works in Tan beautifully and will be great for Summer. I'll take one, please. I know I want a house but really, they all have walk in robes I have to fill, right?

I'm also dreaming of having the will power to start up pilates strictly again. As soon as this cold's gone, I will. Not a shallow promise, just an acknowledgement that I've heard my body whisper once again, 'look after me'.

What are you dreaming of?
Apart from skipping the Winter cold season...

Nat x

Too Much!

2010-07-25T21:04:00.007+10:00

Ever have one of those weekends where you get to Sunday night and you're wondering where it went? OK, so apart from, 'every weekend', I know I know - but this one was particularly bad. I loved it though. Especially Saturday morning! Was strange, M had things to do in the morning and wasn't with me until early afternoon, and the family was out, so I was alone. I went for a long walk, did washing, ate breakfast alone, then went shopping a few local places, (just groceries and the local centre where I got tan leather pointy flats for work for $25 - amazing!). It was so lovely being alone. I love being with M, but I haven't been alone in ages and I loved it so much.

Best start to the day; self made muesli with the best yoghurt.

Trying Photoready for the first time....

Photoready? I love it. Don't believe what they tell you, it's not shimmery. It's super light, great coverage and somehow matches my skin perfectly.

I'm terrible at outfit posts, and it was blurring because I'd just dropped the camera. It's recovered itself, somehow.

Over the top interior design in a display home. Hated it.

After shopping today. CK Lingerie and a bonds hoodie without pink lining - FINALLY! Only been searching since April. Yes, really. I was laughing here, I had to use it, the other photos I look like I just ate a fly.

Dear Rimmel,
Although your 60 seconds nail colour in pink punch is lovely, it does not take 60 seconds to dry. I am typing this 30 minutes after applying it and it's still tacky. Really, you suck at quick dry.

_

Hope your weekend was beautiful.

Nat x