October Favourites 2014

 

 

Hello Everyone and Happy Halloween to you all!

Am I the only one who can't believe that it's the end of October already? The year has practically flown by and before you know it, it'll be Christmas! (Not that I'm complaining- I'm far more excited than I should be!!) I only have a couple of picks this month, but since I hadn't done a 'favourites' post since July, I thought I'd better update you all on my current obsessions! Shall we get started?

 

Ah, Vitamin E Oil. I first discovered this little gem while on my trip to the Grampians last month. I needed a quick fix for my dry, damaged hair and this seemed to work wonders! I've since been using on my face after cleansing and it has made a world of difference! If you have dry skin just like me, I highly recommend picking up a bottle!

 

 
Something you all should know about me is that I am a nail polish addict and I own more polishes than I care to admit. I've tried tonnes of brands and formulations but haven't found one I absolutely love until now!
Yes, I'm jumping on the bandwagon a little late here, but this month I've been loving the formulation of OPI Nail polishes!

I painted my nails with OPI's 'Russian Navy' earlier this month and loved it! The colour was opaque and it lasted on my nails for well over a week without any chipping! I'll defiantly be picking up some new colours from this brand very soon!

 

 

For the past couple of weeks, I've been making some green smoothies in the morning. It was always something I thought people did for the health benefits rather than because it tasted good, but I really have loved drinking them! My favourite smoothie has been the 'Make-Me-Over Mojito smoothie' found in Sarah Wilsons book 'I Quit Sugar'. If drinking green smoothies and juices has been something you've considered but haven't done, I highly recommend giving it a go! It's become such a treat for me and I cant wait to find and try new recipes!

 

Here's a picture I took about a week ago showing my green smoothie and some egg and bacon cupcakes also found in Sarah's book. (They were delicious too!)

 

 

Can we please talk about Taylor's new album for just a minute?! Yes, I know '1989' only came out a few days ago but I'm already obsessed! I don't think I could tell you a favourite song from the album since they all are so good, but 'Out of the Woods' has been on repeat quite a few times this month so let's go with that. Do you have a favourite song from the album?

 

I have a favourite blogger this month and her name is Kirsty from Effortlessly Excessive. Oh wow, this girl is talented! Kirsty posts on her blog about all things Fashion & Beauty related with the occasional rant thrown in too! I pretty much always end up browsing her little corner of the internet every time I'm in need of Inspiration. I find her blog informative and interesting- I could literally spend hours reading all of her wonderful posts! So well done, Kirsty!

 

I'd love to hear your thought's on my latest obsessions. Let me know in the comments below what you've been loving this month as well as something you're looking forward to next month

That's it from me today, Have an amazing day!

Love Megan xo

Finding Yourself

Some days, it's only fitting that I write about subjects relating to my personal life. Today is one of those days..

Most of the time, I'm pretty sure of who I am. (which is more than I can say about a lot of people my age!) But sometimes, I just lose myself. My beliefs suddenly become unclear and I lose sight of where I'm going. Has this happened to you?  Maybe if I were older, this wouldn't ever be an issue. I mean, what is it about older people? They just seem so damn sure of themselves all the time. Perhaps truly knowing who you are just comes with life experience and time.

 

Today, I wanted to share some of my tips that I think will help some of you who might be going through this identity struggle too!

Let's get started!

1. Love yourself first.

Okay, so this might sound a little cliché, but It's true! I believe knowing who you are and being comfortable in your own skin only comes from being 100% ay-okay with yourself.  That means that its time to stop hating on your flaws and imperfects. Now, repeat after me: Perfection doesn't exist.

2. Have a purpose.

What is it that you love to do? What are you passionate about? For me, it's being creative! It doesn't matter how I do it, just as long as I am always creating something. Figuring out what you love can play such a big part in finding out who you are. If you're not sure what it is exactly that you love to do, then follow my next tip.

3. Discover.
So, how is it that you find your purpose? Just do something- anything! Have as many new experiences as you can. It's okay to be a little scared, that means you're stepping outside of your comfort zone. As you adapt to new environments, your experiences will mould your interests.

 

I found this quote and It really speaks to me..

 

"Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." - George Bernard

Perhaps that's just it. We shouldn't worry so much about figuring out who we're meant to be, but rather create the person we actually want to be.

Did this post help you to discover yourself, or do you have any extra tips? Please leave your thoughts below as I'd love to hear them!

I apologise if this post seemed a little disjointed and short, I'm running on limited sleep today! I'll have an exciting post ready for you all on Thursday! Have a fabulous day everyone and i'll see you soon!

Love Megan xo

#100happydays Weekly Catchup: #2

Hey there!

Welcome to the second post for my #100happydays series!
I've had a pretty good week this week, yay! It's been the first time in quite a while that I've felt like I've had the time to do the things that make me happy. (Which obviously made it easier for me to get some shots for this series!)

I'll try to keep it short and simple today, so lets get started!

Day 5: 18/10
'My favourite toasted focaccia for lunch today'
Chicken and Avocado.. mmm...

Day 6:  19/10
'Family Brunch = Perfect Sunday!'
Well, my second family that is! Who doesn't love a big cooked brekkie!

Day 7: 20/10
'I adore seeing flowers in bloom'
One of the new additions in my dads garden- I think it's so pretty!

Day 8: 21/10
'Playing in the sunshine with this adorable pup!'
This boy always loves a good tummy scratch. Its the simple things in life!

Day 9: 22/10
'I'm so fortunate to live near such beautiful scenery!'
Isn't it just beautiful? It sure was the perfect way to start my morning!

Day 10: 23/10
'My absolute favourite food at the end of a long day'
PASTA!.. double mmm..

Day 11: 24/10
'I'm Thankful for new opportunities everyday!'
I was given a huge opportunity today to work in an office. Although scary, It was a fantastic experience!

I hope you enjoyed this quick post today. Don't forget to follow my Instagram account for updates throughout the week. I'd also love to hear what made you smile today? If you're participating in the challenge too, send me the link to your site- I'd love to check it out!
Have a fantastic weekend and I'll catch up with you soon!

Love Megan xo



I Quit Sugar! + Special Announcement

Happy Thursday!

 

How has everyone's week been? Lovely I hope!

 

If you aren't already aware, I have been living sugar free for the past four weeks. (I know it sounds a little crazy, but just bear with me!) A little over a month ago, I signed up for Sarah Wilson's 'I Quit Sugar 8 Week Program'. Never heard of it? well, let me fill you in! The program is designed as a way to help people who are trying to overcome their addiction and cravings for sugar. Until a few months ago, it had never occurred to me that I may be 'addicted' to sugar (nor did I realize that it was actually a thing!)

The problem with consuming too much sugar (Fructose specifically) is that our bodies just don't use it. Glucose, (the other component of sugar) is good sugar, and it can be used by all of our cells for energy. Fructose, is quite the opposite. It not only gets turned directly into fat, but it goes undetected by our bodies, meaning we continue to eat even after we're full. The complicated part is that it's extremely addictive and unfortunately, it's added to almost everything we eat!

I don't want to go into it in too much detail here, but if you'd like to know more information, I recommend checking out these books:

'Sweet Poison' + 'The Sweet Poison Quit Plan' by David Gillespie
'I Quit Sugar' + 'I Quit Sugar for Life' by Sarah Wilson

I signed up to the program for a couple of reasons..

Most of my life I've struggled with my weight. Don't get me wrong, I would love my body even if I weighed 300 kilos! But unfortunately, it had gotten to the stage where it stopped me from doing things I've wanted to do. I became quite tired and often had trouble sleeping. I knew the way I lived was unhealthy, and I knew I needed to do something about it. A lovely friend of mine quit sugar almost a year ago and speaks only positive things about her experience! I decided to give it a go, hoping for a realistic lifestyle change.

Approaching the half way mark of the program, I decided to write this post so I can not only reflect on what I've achieved in the program so far, but also share my experience for anyone who might be considering this program for themselves.

So far, the biggest change has been my attitude to drinking water. Before starting the program, There hadn't been a single day that I can ever remember not having soft drink. I simply couldn't stand the taste of water!
Today, I'm happy to tell you that it's been 17 days since my last glass of diet coke. What surprised me the most is that I don't even want it anymore! I can happily sit in a crowded room filled with people drinking sugary drinks and I'm not the slightest bit inclined to have a glass myself. It might not be much but for me, this is a really big step and I couldn't be prouder of myself! To add to that, I've also kicked a few kilos, and gained tones of energy! So far, I'm feeling absolutely fantastic and I just can't wait to see even more results!

If you or someone you know has been considering the 'IQS8WP', then I would highly recommend it! Sarah and her team offer you delicious meal plans, easy recipes and tips to help you out along the way. Of course If you have any problems or questions at all, you are easily able to consult an IQS ambassador or fellow participants in the forums!

Register at iquitsugar.com

 

I hope you enjoyed reading this post and hopefully I will have helped some of you!

Now, for my announcement...

Christmas is by far my favourite time of the year and as we're fast approaching the jolly season, I've decided to do something special on the blog! I'm committing to creating festive themed craft projects for you all during the month of December! I'd love to hear your thoughts and ideas for this project! I'm so excited and I hope you all are too!

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend and I'll speak to you very soon!

Love Megan xo

Inspiration Monday #4: A Vintage Affair

Hello Everyone!

I thought it was about time I wrote a new 'Inspiration Monday' post for you all, so today I would like to share my thoughts on the vintage trend.
 

This style has been all the rage in fashion, media, music and interiors for quite a few years now. Logging into Pinterest without seeing the iconic style is near impossible nowadays. As I browse through boutiques stapled with distressed crates and old fashioned milk bottles, I wonder what it is exactly about this trend that's turning our homes into time machines?

The design world constantly looks to the past for inspiration. We see it on runways and in home magazines, but why? Perhaps its simply doing what we know works while adding our own contemporary twist on the idea?

Well, I believe this style performs so well because as a society, we embrace the push for sustainability. We are now beginning to look at the way we use resources differently, including up-cycling old products to create new, innovative ones.

 http://www.projectwedding.com/photos/1/581348

 http://www.flickr.com/photos/leboudoirgourmand/5669717580/in/photostream

 http://www.funkyjunkinteriors.net/2013/06/a-junk-filled-summer-home-tour-funky-junk-interiors.html

http://indulgy.com/post/PpeQUL9JU1/old-sewing-machine-base

http://hananhanna.tumblr.com/post/79087567821

 http://www.amazinginteriordesign.com/10-brilliant-ways-repurpose-old-cribs/

http://jonesdesigncompany.com/things-i-like/before-there-was-pinterest/

This has got to be my favourite 'Inspiration Monday' trend so far- I just think its absolutely adorable! I love the idea of adding a bit of history to your home. I think it just makes the space a little more interesting, wouldn't you agree?

Grabbing these décor items from thrift shops and markets at bargain prices is also an added bonus, who wouldn't want current trend pieces for a fraction of the price?!

That's it for today everyone.. So, Are you loving this trend?

Please let me know your thoughts and/or if you have any ideas for future 'Inspiration Monday' posts - I'd love to hear them!  As always, don't forget to check out my 'Vintage Affair' Pinterest board for more Pinspiration! While you're there, why not give us a follow too?! :)

You may also like to check out past 'Inspiration Monday' posts:

Geometric Love        Pretty Pastels        Pineapples?

Have a good week!

Love Megan xo

#100happydays Weekly Catchup: #1

Hello you!

Welcome to my very first weekly post for my #100happydays series!

I'm so excited to be doing this post today! I've just loved looking over the past few days and thinking about the wonderful times I've had. So far, I haven't experienced much difficulty finding reasons to be happy. I hope that over time, I'll find it hard to find only one reason!

I don't want to go on too much about what this project is as I covered it in my post from Monday. If you missed it and would like to know a little bit more information on the project, then I've included a link to the post here!

So, Lets get started!!

Day 1: 14/10

 

 

"Spending time with these little guys is always reason to smile"
Meet Stamper and Smudgy, they are one of my best friends turtles! Aren't they cute?!

Day 2: 15/10

 

"A cup of my favourite herbal tea to comfort me on this cold Melbourne morning"
Its called 'Festivitea' and it smells like Christmas! yum!

Day 3: 16/10

 

 

"Spending time with my best friend in the city today!"
This is Ashley and we've known each other since we were four years old! Also, trying to take this picture showed me just how bad I am at taking selfies!
 

Day 4: 17/10
 

"Painting warms my soul"

Do you guys like this one? I'm undecided! It certainly was fun to make though!
Oh, and I have no idea why its so blurry ..I bet I smudged the lens whilst taking terrible selfies yesterday!

I hope you all enjoyed this post, I just loved creating it! Are you guys doing the #100happydays project? It's never too late to sign up on their website!

Remember that if you don't want to wait for these weekly updates to see my happy snaps, then you can check them out as they go up on my Instagram! (Follow me! ..Please?)

Have a fantastic weekend

Love Megan xo

D.I.Y Doggy Tug Toys

 G'day everyone!

 

Earlier this week, a lovely friend of mine came to me with an idea to make some new tug toys for her dogs to play with. She explained to me that the expensive toys she was buying just weren't holding up with all of the throwing, chewing and pulling. She found this tutorial that seemed to be an inexpensive solution to her problem. Bek very generously allowed me to take pictures of her project so I could show you all how to make one too!

 

For this DIY, you'll need:

• Jersey Knit Fabric in assorted colours or old T-Shirts
• A cutting mat
• A ruler
• A rotary cutter and/or Scissors

Let's Begin!

Step 1: Cut your fabric into 20 pieces that measure 20" x 1". This measurement is for larger dogs. for smaller dogs, you can reduce the length and quantity, but not the width.

 

 

Please note that the 20 strips will allow you to make 1 toy- (As you can see, we cut much more than what was necessary for one toy with the intention to make a whole bunch!)

 

Step 2: Lay your strips into two piles of 10

 

 

Step 3: Take one of the piles and twist it tightly, then do the exact same to the other pile. You might need a friends help to hold the twists so they stay tight!

(Please excuse the lack of images here- all hands were in use!

 I tried to make these instructions as obvious as possible, but if you're still having trouble understanding, I'm happy to try and further explain it in the comments!)

 

Step 4: Once you have your two twisted pieces, hold them together and twist the two pieces to form the toy. To secure the twists, tie a knot at each end of the toy- These knots should be tight to make sure they are "doggy proof"- there should be no need for sewing or gluing.

 

 

 Alternatively to steps 2, 3 & 4- you can take the 20 pieces and plat them, then tie a knot at each. Again, make sure you tie these knots tightly to assure they don't come undone!  

 

 

Then that's it!

 

 

Please let me know in the comments how you got on with making these little tug toys. We hope your fur babies enjoy playing with the new toys just as much as our pups did!

My gorgeous friend Bek hopes to soon sell these toys. If you prefer to buy your pet a toy rather then fussing over making one, then this will soon be an option- I'll be sure to let you know when this happens!

That's it from me for now. Remember to check back on Saturday for my #100happydays recap of week 1!

See you all then!

Love Megan xo

Can You Be Happy for 100 Days In A Row?

 

 

Welcome back everyone, I hope you all had a fantastic weekend!

 

I'm sure by now, you've all heard of the #100happydays project.

If you're not quite sure what it is, this project was started as a way for people to take time out of their busy schedules to stop and smell the roses. The idea is that you take a picture of something that has made you happy each day for 100 days. Hopefully by the end of the project, you'll have become a more optimistic person.

 

It doesn't have to be big.. It could be as simple as having a long phone call with a friend, or having fresh sheets on your bed. I honestly believe that everyday may not be good, but there is always something good in everyday. It's your challenge to find it!

I think the whole idea of this project is wonderful. In fact, I've decided to take part in the project... 

For the next several weeks, I'll be including a new blog 'series' on Saturdays entitled '#100happydays weekly catchup'. Its here that i'll share my photo's and you'll be able to see how I'm progressing with the project. If you can’t wait til then, a happy snap will be going up each day on my Instagram (Yes, I FINALLY gave in and set up an account for the blog.. Yay!)

I invite you all to do this challenge with me! All you need to do is sign up to the program on their website and post one photo of something that made you smile everyday for 100 days with the hash tag #100happydays.

 

So, do you think its as easy as it sounds?

What are your thoughts on the project, Perhaps you've already done it? I'd love for you to share your experience!

Love Megan xo

 

D.I.Y Twine-Strung Notice Board

 

 

Hello Craft Bugs!

 This week, I was gifted a copy of 'The Art of Handmade Living' by Willow Crossley. This book is filled with 40 of the most gorgeous craft ideas for decorating your home. I just couldn't help but be completely inspired to create some of these ideas. I've decided that for today's post, I'll show you all how to make this notice board found in Willows book, but I've put my own little twist on it!

 

You will need:

 



• An old frame- you may have one somewhere in your house like I did. If not, you will be able to find plenty at an Opp shop/ Thrift shop or Market
• Ruler, Scissors and a pencil
• A hot glue gun/ some screw eyes
• Twine
• Mini craft pegs

***

Lets get started!

 



 

Firstly, You will need to decide how many rows of twine you are going to have running across the length of the frame. Work out how far apart you would like your twine to be and make a light pencil mark on each side of the frame.

 

Next, Use your hot glue gun to glue your twine where you had marked your frame. Make sure you pull the twine tight so it doesn't hang loosely on your board!

 

Alternatively, you can use screw eyes to screw into the frame where you placed your marks. Then, simply tie the twine so it is secure.

 

Once you've finished this step, cut off any excess twine. 

 



A backing for your board isn't compulsory, but I chose to use a piece of fabric I had to make it a bit more girly and fun!

 

If you would like to do this too, just grab a piece of fabric and cut it so it's a couple of inches larger than your backing sheet. Lay the fabric over the sheet and put the frame on top, then close the clamps to secure your fabric.

 

 

Don't forget to add your mini craft pegs!

 

 

 

And that's it! You can choose to decorate your notice board however you want to!

 

I hope you enjoyed this quick and easy DIY- I'd love to hear your thoughts on this weeks craft project! Also, If you've got any other ideas for future craft posts, please let me know!

 

 

Have a wonderful weekend and I'll see you back here for another post on Monday! 

 

Love Megan xo 

 

 

 

10 Ways To Dress Up Blank Walls

Hello everybody!

Today on the blog, I have rounded up my favourite ways to decorate blank walls. I hope with this post, I'll be able to inspire many of you who are looking for some fresh ideas for your home.

Lets jump right in!

 

1. Unique wall art.

 

http://beautifulartdesign.com/unique-wall-art-ideas.html

Yes, starting with the obvious one!
You really don't need to stop at frames when decorating walls. There are thousands of unique designs for wall art out there if you look hard enough. I particularly like the textured design in this image- it practically flies off the wall!

2. Gallery.

 

http://bossycolor.com/nate-berkus-parade-magazine-and-me/

 

I adore this quirky idea! Why not gather a few of your bits and bobs to display together as a wall gallery? It certainly creates interest in the space!

 

3. Wall decals

 

http://www.vinylimpression.co.uk/collections/popular

Wall decals or stickers are absolutely fantastic! They come in a range of designs & sizes, and if you change your mind, they usually peel off easily without leaving any marks!

4. Collage's

 

http://bellamumma.com/

I just love inspirational collages! It'll easily fill your blank walls and it'll make you smile every time you see it!!

5. Clocks

 

http://bricolage-decoracao.blogspot.com.au/2013/02/diferentes-tipos-de-relogio-de-parede.html

Why not fill your space with a decorative clock?! Cute and practical? Yes please!

6. Textures

http://www.handmadecharlotte.com/8-fun-easy-diy-wall-hangings/

If your place seems cold and clinical, use these soft textures to warm up your space! Yarn & Quilted wall hangings are perfect if you're looking for something a little different. Isn't this one just adorable?!

7. Washi tape

 

http://www.styleitlikeyoustoleit.com/site/reasons-to-fall-in-love-with-washi-tape-interiors-ideas-tutorials-inspiration/

Oh, Washi Tape.. The possibilities are literally endless with this one!

Here's a link to a site that shows you some great ways to use the tape: 10 ways to transform your space with washi tape.

 

8. Storage Shelves

 

http://oldsoulstyle.blogspot.com.au/2014/09/unique-wall-decor-shelves.html

Why not take advantage of the wall space and add some extra shelves? They'll add some interest to the room and store your little knick knacks too!

9. Mirrors

 

http://www.babble.com/home/reasons-you-need-a-mirror-in-your-living-room/#let-there-be-light

 

Not only will a large mirror fill your empty space, but it'll also bounce light around the room making it appear larger and brighter!

 

10. Wallpaper

http://www.houzz.com/photos/206777/Doheny-Wallpaper-by-Jeff-Lewis-Design-modern-wallpaper

 

Wallpaper is such a versatile product since it comes in about a million different colours and patterns. You can use wallpaper to make as big or as little of a statement as you want- the options are endless!

I hope you enjoyed this post and maybe even found yourself inspired to decorate! Please let me know which ideas were your favourite as well as any ideas you might have that could be added to the list! I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Love Megan xo