Long Distance Relationships

<span xmlns=""></span><br /><span xmlns=""><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S397w3lWAhI/AAAAAAAAAmU/uLkV0yUMKws/s1600-h/tumblr_kq0x17iCyS1qzlohyo1_500_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S397w3lWAhI/AAAAAAAAAmU/uLkV0yUMKws/s320/tumblr_kq0x17iCyS1qzlohyo1_500_large.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">I have been in a long distance relationship with my boyfriend for more years than I can count! I won't sugar-coat it for you - it's not easy, and there may be times where you just want to call it quits. I wouldn't advise you to get yourself into this situation unless there's absolutely no viable alternative; and you shouldn't even <em>consider</em> it if your relationship is still quite young! Distance will break apart relationships that weren't meant to last, but will have the opposite effect on partners that should definitely be together (ever heard the phrase, "Absence makes the heart grow fonder?")<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">If you do decide to take the plunge, here are my tips for enduring the distance:<br /></span><br /><br /><ul><li><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Talk to each other every day. It might be hard, but you should touch base with each other at least once a day, even if it's only for a few minutes. If you really, <em>really</em> don't have time, or if the time difference is too awkward, at least send each other an e-mail every day. It can be just a quick one: the point of this is to make sure you are in each other's thoughts, even when you're not physically together. Skype is an amazing way to stay in touch - I don't know what I'd do without it!<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Go on a date, once a week. Yes, I know you can't both get into the same car and drive to a movie, but you can still do things together! <a href="http://www.lovingfromadistance.com/thingsforldrcouplestodo.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;">Here</span></a> is a great list of things you can do together from a distance. Even if your date means chatting to each other online, the key is that you are spending time together. In some ways, long distance relationships can make you closer, because you are forced to talk to each other much more than you may be used to.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Try to see each other as often as possible. It might be once a year; it might be once a month: see each other as often as time/budget permits.<br /></span></li><li><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Trust your partner. Jealousy may arise during long separations, but trust is essential to maintaining your relationship. If you develop feelings for someone else, don't hide them. Discuss it with your partner. Sometimes it may just be a case of displacing emotions for your loved one onto someone who is nearby, and your partner may be feeling the same way. If you can identify this, you can stop yourself from making a mistake.<br /></span></li></ul><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">I hope this helps those of you considering a long distance relationship!<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">xx Leia<br /></span></span>

Long Distance Relationships

I have been in a long distance relationship with my boyfriend for more years than I can count! I won't sugar-coat it for you - it's ...

Read more »

Romantic Movies for the Chick Flick Hater

<span xmlns=""></span><br /><span xmlns=""><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3sBQSJUYfI/AAAAAAAAAk8/PnMUtBobOi4/s1600-h/VM._SY400_SX600__0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3sBQSJUYfI/AAAAAAAAAk8/PnMUtBobOi4/s320/VM._SY400_SX600__0.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Guest Post for the Valentines Day Blog Carnival by Vanessa of Chicken Soup for the Dorky Soul<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">I have never seen <em>The Notebook</em>. I know some of you are flailing around in confusion at that statement, but it's true. In fact, I never <em>want</em> to see it. There are few things that make me feel more like vomiting than a gooshy, squishy, girly movie. I can't stand when the guy loses the girl and then in a series of crazy antics and emotional ups and downs, he gets her back and they live happily ever after. Or when the guy and the girls are neighbors and one loves the other but the other loves some douche/douchette and the entire movie revolves around how they find out they were meant for each other all along. I really, really hate when a movie shows love as something that happens between some modern-day princess and a white knight who acts all flowery for the sake of making her happy. Chick flicks represent, to me, everything that I've never wanted romance to be. Sure, I like when my boyfriend brings me flowers and writes me love notes, but the moments in which I really know I love him are the ones spent making fun of each other in public and shouting obscenities at each other as we play a violent video games in our pajamas. And sure, I like some romance in my movies, but the totally over-the-top stuff? Not for me.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">If you're like me and you don't like the typical chick flick or romantic comedy, you might find yourself a little lost for ideas on what movie to snuggle up with this Valentine's Day—or on any date night, for that matter. Well, fortunately for you, I have a few ideas of movies that incorporate romance just enough to make you go "awww!" and cuddle closer, but not in a way that makes you get sick in the toilet.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Science of Sleep<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">This is my absolute favorite movie ever. It's the story of a strange dude—aka Gael Garcia Bernal, who is a serious cutie— that comes to live in France and falls in love with his neighbor. He's an inventor and a dreamer—literally. Bernal's character, Stephane, seems to have an odd condition that blurs the line between reality and dream, which leads to tons of interesting, charming interludes in the film. Science of Sleep is wonderfully clever, and is definitely one of those movies you tend to see more than once if you want to savor everything properly (if you're into analyzing movies, this one will keep be a joy to watch). It's perfectly romantic without ever being saccharine.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>House of Flying Daggers<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">This is another one of my favorite films of all time. House of Flying Daggers is a martial arts movie starring the incomparable Ziyi Zhang as Mei, a blind exotic dancer—or so everyone thinks at first. The government believes she has connections to the infamous House of Flying Daggers, so they send two officers after her in order to infiltrate the rebel group. Of course, a sort of love triangle forms, but that's all I'm sharing about the plot. The martial arts amazing, the music is beautiful, and the cinematography is breathtaking. Even if you're not into love stories, this movie is totally worth watching based on its aesthetic value alone.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>V for Vendetta<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">There's nothing like the love between a crazy dude bent on blowing up Parliament and a bald Natalie Portman. I mean, spoiler alert. I mean, she doesn't shave her head and still look drop dead gorgeous. More or less, the plot follows V trying to overthrow a fascist government and his relationship with Evey Hammond, a woman he pulls from the clutches of said fascist government. It's all very tense with lots of explosions and plot twists, and the best part is you're really rooting for this vigilante bent on destruction for the sake of the people. It's hard, of course, not to be distracted by the at-times-subtle romance between V and Evey.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>The Princess Bride<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">I don't think this movie honestly needs much explanation. While the plot essentially revolves around a love story, the film is full of laughs and crazy characters—and not to mention parody. The Princess Bride is, if anything, a satirization of adventures and romances, and you'll be sure to be entertained just thinking about how ridiculous and formulaic the genuine articles are. <br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Star Wars Movies<br /></strong></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">And by "Star Wars Movies," I particularly mean the prequels, since we're talking about romance. Yes, yes, I know the prequels get a lot of flack, but I refuse to deny that I found myself cooing girlishly during some of the love scenes between Anakin and Padme. Star Wars is great as a romance because it's definitely not too romantic at all. The sub-plot is there, but mostly there are crazy-looking aliens, badass droids (*cough*Grievous*cough*), and epic lightsaber battles to focus on. I'm sure a lot of you will be skeptical of this choice because of how nerdy it is, but if you give it a watch, you may be pleasantly surprised. <br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>What movies would you add to this list?<br /></strong></span></span>

Romantic Movies for the Chick Flick Hater

Guest Post for the Valentines Day Blog Carnival by Vanessa of Chicken Soup for the Dorky Soul I have never seen The Notebook . I know some ...

Read more »

Lesson in love from “The Break-Up”

<span xmlns=""></span><br /><span xmlns=""><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3r_83qjyEI/AAAAAAAAAk0/TJprzmVmMlU/s1600-h/the-break-up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3r_83qjyEI/AAAAAAAAAk0/TJprzmVmMlU/s320/the-break-up.jpg" /></a></div><br /><i>Guest post for the Valentines Day Blog Carnival by the lovely <a href="http://theglamourousgradstudent.blogspot.com/2007/06/about.html">A</a> of <a href="http://theglamourousgradstudent.blogspot.com/">The Glamourous Grad Student</a>.</i><br /><i><br /></i><br />The Break-Up, with Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaughn, was on TV today. It starts out so cute, with the opening-credits montage of "happy times" photos. Then the relationship implodes so catastrophically it's hard to take it seriously. You want to slap these people with a really big fish...<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #993399;"><em><strong>Brooke</strong>: What are these? [holds up a bag with 3 lemons] </em></span><br /><span style="color: #993399;"><em><strong>Gary</strong>: You asked for lemons. What my baby wants my baby gets. </em></span><br /><span style="color: #993399;"><em><strong>Brooke</strong>: There are 3 lemons. I asked for 12. Baby wanted 12. </em></span><br /><br />The chip that becomes a crack that becomes a shattered train-wreck of a relationship is Gary bringing Brooke home insufficient lemons for her centerpiece. This snowballs into a list of complaints about Gary not doing dishes or wearing a belt that matches his pants, and not taking her to the ballet... The fact is, men and women, while equal, are also very, very different. You can't expect your man to be a man, and also have all the same interests, habits and style instincts that you do. Having said that, Gary was an inconsiderate slob at the start of the movie so Brooke did have some pretty legit complaints too.<br /><br /><span style="color: #666666;"><strong>Lesson? Men ≠ Women. Get used to it.</strong></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #993399;"><em><strong>Gary</strong>: Is that how you want to play it Brooke? Because I can play it like that. I can play it like Lionel Richie, "All night long."</em></span><br /><br />Brooke decides the best way to get what she wants is to kick Gary out of their bedroom, get him voted out of their bowling team and beaten up, all with the aim of putting him in a bad place mentally so he'll start thinking about what he's done. That<em> never</em> works!! Naturally, he just starts one-upping her. At this point in the movie you start wondering were either of them really cut out for an adult relationship... The closest they come to any sort of couples counseling is their realtor sitting them down to decide what happens to the condo. When you've been in a relationship long enough to buy property together, the grown-up thing to do is work on it together. "Playing it" any other way is just childish.<br /><br /><span style="color: #666666;"><strong>Lesson? Mindgames ≠ Mature. Don't go there.</strong></span><br /><br /><strong><br /><span style="color: #993399;"><em>Brooke</em></span></strong><em>: I take care of everything. And I just don't feel like you appreciate any of it. I don't feel you appreciate me. All I want is to know, is for you to show me that you care. </em><br /><span style="color: #993399;"><em><strong>Gary</strong>: Why didn't you just say that to me" </em></span><br /><span style="color: #993399;"><em><strong>Brooke</strong>: I tried. I've tried. </em></span><br /><span style="color: #993399;"><em><strong>Gary</strong>: Never like that, you might have said some things that meant to imply that, but I'm not a mind reader...<br /><br /></em></span><span style="color: black;">'Nuff said.</span><span style="color: #993399;"><em><br /><br /></em></span><span style="color: #666666;"><strong>Lesson? Communication = No Bloody Problem In The First Place!!</strong></span></span>

Lesson in love from “The Break-Up”

Guest post for the Valentines Day Blog Carnival by the lovely A of The Glamourous Grad Student . The Break-Up, with Jennifer Aniston and Vi...

Read more »

How To Get Over A Break Up

<span xmlns=""></span><br /><span xmlns=""><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3atz2C-h9I/AAAAAAAAAks/sKYaGjrpm00/s1600-h/heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3atz2C-h9I/AAAAAAAAAks/sKYaGjrpm00/s320/heart.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><i>Guest Post entry for Valentine's Day Carnival by the every lovely <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13714179408766699953">Sarah Von</a> of <a href="http://www.yesandyes.org/">Yes and Yes</a>.</i><br /><i><br /></i><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><em>From reading your blog, I know that you recently went through a bad break up, and I'm currently in that situation. While it's not bad in the sense that we're not talking and hate each other, it's bad in the sense that it hurts every second of every day, and as much as I would rather be with him, he decided that we would be better off apart. How have you been surviving the break up, and getting through it to the other side? How you have been doing it and what has helped you?<br /><br /></em>Oh friend. I am flattered that you think I could write a 'how-to' post on this, but <strong>I think this piece should be more accurately titled "How to turn the corner after a break up, stop crying in the bathroom at work, and begin to enjoy your life again (but still sometimes cry when you hear that one song)"<br /><br /></strong>But that's a really long title for a blog post.<br /><br />That said, I'm happy to share the things that I've been doing that have helped me get through this messy, mopey time.<br /><br /><strong>Remove the ex from your life (at least for a while)<br /></strong>The truly mutual, friendly break up is a rare bird - usually someone's feelings are bound to be hurt. If you were the injured party, I think it's particularly important to distance yourself for a bit. If you hang out with the ex all the time, you may find yourself trying to be your best, most charming self in an effort to make them see the error of their ways and run back to you. And if you genuinely enjoy each other's company and really like hanging out with each other ... well, that's not going to help anybody get over anybody.<br /><br />It's really, really hard to take this step and you might even worry that you're hurting this person. Just tell them that you're not trying to be malicious or hurtful and that someday you'd like to be friends, but right now you need some distance for your mental health. Then defriend the emmeffer.<br /><br /><strong>Be 100% honest with yourself about any issues that you had with your ex or the relationship<br /></strong>We all make compromises in relationships and no relationship is perfect - common knowledge, right? But sometimes when we're in the thick of things, we downplay how much something means to us in an effort to keep the peace ... there's not really any point in obsessing over his love for bad Science Fiction is there? But now that you're not together anymore, be honest with yourself about the things that didn't work for <em>you </em>in the relationship. They might not have been huge issues, but have a good think on them and be thankful that you don't have to deal with them anymore.<br /><br /><strong>Put yourself on a dating hiatus<br /></strong>If you just got out of a relationship, especially a long term one, being single feels like visiting a foreign country. And as tempting as it is to hook up with the first applicant for the position of boyfriend, it's probably a bad idea. You're not ready for it and you might end up hurting a lovely, unsuspecting person who just wants to love you.<br /><br />If you feel weird about being single, view it as a 'dating diet' ... none of that high calorie hooking up and number-swapping for you! Only heaping helpings of girlfriends, fun, and go-nowhere flirting! I've even allotted a specific end-date to my dating diet (Sept 1) to make it seem more fun ... as though I'll immediately begin making out with a delicious gentleman at the strike of midnight on August 31st.<br /><br /><strong>Have heaps of fun with your friends<br /></strong>Now that you're single you probably have heaps more time to spend with all the amazing people in your life. Also, view this time as an opportunity for your friends to go to bat for you - don't be afraid to bawl your little eyes out over beer/cheese/bacon cupcakes. Or around the bonfire. Or at the coffeeshop. Or all of the above. You've helped them through their dramas, they will help you get through this.<br /><br />But it doesn't have to be all weeping and yelling about how "you were too good for him anyway!" <a href="http://www.yesandyes.org/2009/05/30-new-things-drive-in-movie.html"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;">Go to the drive in</span></a>, or the zoo, or <a href="http://www.yesandyes.org/2009/07/30-new-things-get-my-tarot-cards-read.html"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;">the tarot card reader</span></a>. Road trip and skinny dip and make popsicles. Do so many fun things that you're too busy to think about whats-their-name.<br /><br /><strong>Make a new plan<br /></strong>If you were in a long term relationship, there's a good chance that this person played into your plans for the future. Maybe you were going to go to your second choice school to be closer to them, or live in the city instead of the mountains. Maybe you were going to work part time because they could support you. But things are different now and doesn't everything feel better if you have a plan? Sit down with a cup of tea and a journal and think about what <em>you </em>really want to do, now that you don't have anyone else to consider. The sky's the limit!<br /><br /><strong>Make some changes<br /></strong>A new flat. A new haircut. A new wardrobe. The change in your relationship status might not feel so completely overwhelming when it's part of a hurricane of changes in your life. I think it also really helps to mix things up a bit so you're not constantly surrounded with the sweater you wore on your first date, the book he gave you for your birthday and couch where you first made out. Besides - this is a totally sanctioned excuse for shopping!<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Take care of yourself</strong><br />It is incredibly, incredibly tempting to devolve into a sweats-wearing, ice cream-snarfing, SATC-viewing mess, but you'll feel heaps better if you look after yourself. If you're going to fanny around the house all day, at least do it in a kinomo. If you're going to pig out, do it goat cheese and baguettes. If you want to watch bad TV, do it with your friends. Don't for get to shave your legs, get some sunshine and get a bit of exercise. It might be hard to get going, but you'll be so glad you did that instead of sitting inside, listening to Jeff Buckley and eating a whole frozen pizza.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /><strong>Practice the art of <a href="http://www.yesandyes.org/2009/06/how-to-let-it-go.html"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;">letting go</span></a></strong><br />You can't control your ex's decisions, you can only control your responses to them. Maybe they chose to end your relationship. That doesn't mean that you're not amazing and gorgeous and totally, totally loveable. It means that they weren't the right person for you right now.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>How do you get over breakups? Have you ever been through a Very Bad Breakup?</strong></span></span>

How To Get Over A Break Up

Guest Post entry for Valentine's Day Carnival by the every lovely Sarah Von of Yes and Yes . From reading your blog, I know that you re...

Read more »

Women want all this, and not just on the 14th of February

<span xmlns=""></span><br /><span xmlns="">Guest Post from the lovely <a href="http://telltaleblog.com/about/">Alexandra</a> of <a href="http://telltaleblog.com/">The Tell Tale Blog</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><em>I'm not a fan of Valentine's Day. I don't really like candy, let alone the kitschy heart-shaped kind, wrapped in horrible pink paper, I don't like the red+pink combo, and I hate pre-made Hallmark cards featuring a teddy bear imploring whoever to be his Valentine. V-Day… to quote the endless fountain of wisdom that is Kramer, "frankly, it sounds made up". With the risk of sounding very cliché, lovers should celebrate their love every day and not just on the 14th of the second month in the Gregorian calendar. </em><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><em><br /></em></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><em>I am aware that routine, a busy daily schedule, THE ECONOMY! (who doesn't blame the economy?) can make a guy feel… well… less inspired about how to show his love for his sweetheart. So guys, here's a mini-guide composed of things that just popped to mind meant to help you with better understanding your lady friend. So go on, give it a read and then proceed to being AWESOME!</em><br /></span><br /><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3WDUqjvDCI/AAAAAAAAAjM/sDrxcxLcaXs/s1600-h/4323676313_a42e13c56c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3WDUqjvDCI/AAAAAAAAAjM/sDrxcxLcaXs/s320/4323676313_a42e13c56c.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><em><br /></em></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><em><br /></em></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Listen, be present, be involved!</strong><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Women and cats have at least one thing in common: the craving for attention. There's no denying it. All women need to be listened to, we all want at some point your whole, undivided attention. If a woman tells you this is not true, make no mistake, she is lying!</span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Fortunately for Y chromosome carriers, this I-wish-to-be-the-center-of-your-universe phase is not permanent. It usually comes around when we're feeling insecure, uncertain, under the weather or in need of someone to open our souls to.</span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">If that happens, don't ignore us hoping it will go away. Take some time, make some tea and listen. It may be something as trivial as a stranger's spiteful remark that got to us, but it's important to know we can come to you for comfort.</span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Talking to our loved one induces that warm, fuzzy feeling of closeness and intimacy, something lacking in a chit-chat with our best female friend.<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Pay attention</strong><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Most of the times "women talk" is not that hard to understand if you pay attention. Sometimes not even we know how to express what we want, but if you manage to read the signals your score just went up by 100 points! Morose doesn't mean PMS. It usually means "My day has been awful, I'd like to talk to someone". Now's the time to apply what you've learnt (see above).<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Compliment</strong><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">If you like it, don't keep it to yourself, tell her! "You look really nice in that dress!", "Your hair smells amazing!", "You've got such sexy legs!" this is what I'm talking about. Compliments are Xanax without the side-effects.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3WDTM1t5XI/AAAAAAAAAjE/8R50jQnQGlo/s1600-h/4323675867_5e64e6b294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3WDTM1t5XI/AAAAAAAAAjE/8R50jQnQGlo/s320/4323675867_5e64e6b294.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>You don't need a reason to give flowers</strong><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">I remember one of the times I got flowers for no special reason, I was coming home from work and D was waiting for me at the tram station, with a big bouquet of white lilies. What better way to tell her that your thought flew back to her during the day than some lovely flowers? And what better thing to come home to than a smile and a hug from the man you love, offered together with some white lilies?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3WDSPrAyUI/AAAAAAAAAi8/PmvxxLSUymI/s1600-h/4323675683_36d221d6f3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3WDSPrAyUI/AAAAAAAAAi8/PmvxxLSUymI/s320/4323675683_36d221d6f3.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Small favors</strong><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">The chores are equally divided – she cooks, you do the dishes, she cleans the bedroom, you vacuum the the living room. It's perfectly cool that your relationship is not set in the 50s with the woman in the kitchen and the man reading the newspaper. But how about rewarding her for just being herself every once in a while? How about doing the laundry when it's not even laundry day? Or waking up early on Sunday morning and buying croissants for breakfast? Or preparing her a bath for when she comes back from work? Try it out and you'll see, another 100 points for you!<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Surprise!</strong><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">I am an adept of giving small presents not just when it's a special occasion. It doesn't have to be expensive presents, just something unexpected. This just boosts up the pleasure of receiving it. Take her out for dinner on a week day; go for a walk & an ice cream after work; get her the scarf she was admiring in the window; buy a poetry book by her favorite author, and send it to her by mail without mentioning anything about it; get tickets to the movie she's been dying to see; slip a note in her pocket with a nice quote to brighten up her day… The possibilities are endless.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3WDQi9X2-I/AAAAAAAAAi0/GObFgZcyx6g/s1600-h/4253509891_ef9998f097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3WDQi9X2-I/AAAAAAAAAi0/GObFgZcyx6g/s320/4253509891_ef9998f097.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><em>There you have it! Although this was written having guys in m<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><em>ind as an audience, it can be used by chicks too. Yes ladies, go and tell your man how much you love him. Now excuse me while I go compliment D on his legs.</em></span></em></span>

Women want all this, and not just on the 14th of February

Guest Post from the lovely Alexandra  of The Tell Tale Blog I'm not a fan of Valentine's Day. I don't really like candy, let alo...

Read more »

Celebrate Your Love!

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span xmlns=""></span></span><br /><span xmlns=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><b><br /></b></span></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img alt="Tumblr_ktewhdavvo1qzrkrxo1_500_large" src="http://whi.s3.prod.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/images/1030204/tumblr_ktewhdaVvo1qzrkrxo1_500_large.png?1258940454" /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/1030204">Image</a></span></span></div><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Blog Carnival entry from the lovely Kim of the beautiful <a href="http://escapadeevents.wordpress.com/">Dream.Delight.Inspire </a></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Whether you are single or in a relationship, Valentine's Day will no doubt have an effect on you every year. Magazines hit you with lingerie spreads, telling you that in order to make your man happy you need to spend at least $200 on the latest lace and ribbon underwear set, bright red ruffled garter and thigh high fishnet stockings. Chocolate shops go crazy with heart and lip shaped chocolate, body paint sets and teddy bears holding boxes of merchandise. Gift shops fill their windows with heart shaped balloons, soft toys with "I Love You" written on them and gift baskets filled with sweet treats that make your mouth water. But what message does this send about Valentine's Day?</span> </span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It makes me quite sad when I hear that people refuse to celebrate it because they consider it to be an "overly commercialised Hallmark holiday". Yes, it is now, but that's not how it started. Apart from the well known St Valentine's story, some people </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">in France and England believed that February 14 was the beginning of birds' mating season, which adds to the idea that Valentine's Day should be a day for romance.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In ancient Rome, February was the official beginning of spring and was often considered a time for purification. I think Valentine's Day should be viewed simply as a day to celebrate your love in whichever way you'd like to. </span> </span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you are currently single – use Valentine's Day to really spoil yourself. Sleep in, dance around your room listening to your favourite music, stretch, watch your favourite movie, spend hours in bed reading, write down a list of everything you love about yourself, paint your nails a bright colour, eat delicious food, bake cookies or cupcakes and decorate them, sing, go for a bike ride or roller skating, have a long bubble bath, get a facial or massage, swim in the ocean or get up to see the sunrise.</span> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you are in a relationship – spend the entire day doing wonderful activities together. Cook breakfast together (my favourites are French toast or pancakes) and eat in bed, have a picnic in the botanic gardens, write your lover a poem, have a meal at your favourite restaurant or eat fish and chips on the beach (depending on what hemisphere you're in), tell your partner all the things that makes them special to you, have a spa or sauna together, book massages side by side, watch the sunset with a bottle of wine, cuddle up on a beanbag with a DVD, go for a walk and explore new parts of your suburb, create a treasure hunt with little love notes and tiny presents with clues, learn a new language together via podcast or CD and laugh as you mispronounce words, plan a holiday or go for a midnight swim and enjoy hot chocolate with marshmallows when you get home.</span> </span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /> </span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">What are you planning to do for Valentine's Day?</span><br /></em></strong></span></div><br /> </span>

Celebrate Your Love!

Image Blog Carnival entry from the lovely Kim of the beautiful Dream.Delight.Inspire  Whether you are single or in a relationship, Valentine...

Read more »

Unconditional Self Love - Be Your Own Valentine

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3AAyAmgcyI/AAAAAAAAAik/XizsjrKH37k/s1600-h/20090215220431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S3AAyAmgcyI/AAAAAAAAAik/XizsjrKH37k/s320/20090215220431.jpg" /></a></div>Blog Carnival entry from <a href="http://kyliejowiser.com/blog/about-kylie">Kylie</a> - her blog <a href="http://kyliejowiser.com/blog/">Hyseria</a>, is fabulous and full of really great posts that are both and fun and thought provoking.<br /><br />I'm always confused by women who get depressed if they happen to be spending Valentine's Day without a date. Why?! I say, celebrate your singlehood! Be proud that you don't need to be attached to another half to feel whole! Be grateful that you have time to work on yourself and be as fabulous as you wanna be! Don't cry. Dance. Laugh. Love.<br /><br />But this article isn't just for the single girls. Nope! Those of us in relationships forget to dish out the self lovin' too. In fact, sometimes even more so! When someone else is always telling us how pretty and smart and awesome we are, it's definitely nice, but we can sometimes learn to depend on those words, and that's not good. You've surely heard the old advice, "The most important relationship you'll ever have is the one you have with yourself." and it's true. So don't skimp on the inner romance!<br /><br />Loving yourself is crucial to being happy. If you don't love yourself fully and unconditionally, you will not feel very deserving of happiness. If you don't love yourself, you will never understand how much you have to offer the world and it will all go to waste. I've said before that it is each person's responsibility to be the best person we can possibly be... In order to do this, we need to eliminate self-hate and make it our mission to fall in love with ourselves.<br /><br />What's stopping you from loving yourself? Would you love yourself if you had more money? If you had a better body? If you had more friends? Say this out loud to yourself and you will realize how ridiculous this mindset really is. Would you ever say to your lover, "I will love you when you make more money." or "I will love you when you lose 10 pounds." Of course not! So it's unreasonable to set those kinds of conditions for yourself. You don't deserve that. Everyone needs love, and no one should have to jump through hoops to get it, especially not from themselves! There is nothing wrong with trying to better yourself, but restricting self love in order to do so is unhealthy, ineffective, and stupid. Don't subject yourself to that kind of torture! You can let the love flow and improve yourself at the same time.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Celebrate yourself</span><br />Everyone is different, yet everyone is equally deserving of love. Instead of trying to be someone you're not, celebrate the little things that make you unique. Don't paint your pale skin orange with self tanner, keep it looking fantastic by liberally applying SPF and moisturizer. Don't suffer your way through business school because your family wants you to when all you want to do is make art. Make the most of what you have, don't fight it.<br /><blockquote>“<a href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/persons_are_judged_to_be_great_because_of_the/167511.html" target="_blank">Persons are judged to be great because of the positive qualities they possess, not because of the absence of faults.</a>”</blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">See the beauty in others</span><br />When you look for beauty everywhere, it will be easier to see it in yourself. Practice makes perfect in all aspects of life, so the more you give love, the easier it will be to accept it. Make sure your family and friends know that you love them. Don't just think good things about people, tell them! No one ever tires of hearing wonderful things about themselves, so don't hold back! Making other people feel fantastic will make <span style="font-style: italic;">you</span> feel fantastic and make your relationships blossom like crazy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cute out your living space</span><br />Make your house/apartment/bedroom/dorm as fabulous as possible. You should feel happy and peaceful immediately upon entering it. Your space should boost your mood and your creativity. Everyone has different preferences for how they want their home to be, but personally, my house and I get along best when I keep it clean, organized, bright, and colorful. I like flowers, pictures of people that I love, zero clutter, and fruit. Music is usually playing around here and I am pretty insane about making it smell good. I have a ridiculous stash of scented candles, insense, air fresheners and those little wax things that you put in a vaporizor that melt and smell lovely.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Do what you love to do</span><br />This might be the most important thing of all. Don't fill up your free time with television or facebook. These things have their place, but should not be a regular, major part of your lifestyle. Use your free time to do something you feel <span style="font-weight: bold;">good </span>about. Create somthing beautiful. Learn something new. Help others.

Unconditional Self Love - Be Your Own Valentine

Blog Carnival entry from Kylie  - her blog Hyseria , is fabulous and full of really great posts that are both and fun and thought provoking....

Read more »

Valentines Day Blog Carnival Begins

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://whi.s3.leg.entries.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/20090227171123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="http://whi.s3.leg.entries.lg1x8.simplecdn.net/20090227171123.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Today is the start of the Valentines Day Blog Carnival. While I was somewhat disappointed with the lack of submissions those who did wrote some really awesome stuff :) So check back every second day to see them.

Valentines Day Blog Carnival Begins

Today is the start of the Valentines Day Blog Carnival. While I was somewhat disappointed with the lack of submissions those who did wrote s...

Read more »

Valentines Day Blog Carnival

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S08hH2sjyLI/AAAAAAAAAhI/uWkEc-sNiLY/s1600-h/2854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S08hH2sjyLI/AAAAAAAAAhI/uWkEc-sNiLY/s320/2854.jpg" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Theme: Valentines Day<br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Time: 10AM (Time zone +2:00)<br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Date: 8 - 21st of February 2010 (the week preceding Valentines and the week after)<br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Place: *eLLa* inspired<br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Invited: EVERYONE<br /></div><br /><br />After the success of Decembers Blog Carnival its time for another one! I got loads of positive feedback and many were disappointed as to not knowing about it as they wanted to enter. So, this time its going to work a little differently. Entries will be a three step process:<br /><br />Step one:<br />You have decided to enter. Write a small post or simply put a link to this post at the end of your latest blog post saying that you are taking part and anyone interested should head on over.<br /><br />Step two:<br />Write and submit your post. New and old posts are welcome as long as they fit the theme. See suggestions below.<br /><br />Step three:<br />On the day that your post is scheduled to be up write a short post/link at the end of a post telling readers that your work is up.<br /><br />Its as easy as that! This way everyone will have the opportunity to take part :)<br /><br />So get those submissions in. Be creative write about relationships, date ideas, singles, fashion&make up ideas, recipes, valentines day events, gift ideas ect. The possibilities are endless!!<br /><br />Entries should include:<br /><br /><ul><li>New or old post</li><li>An email link or word document containing the post and its accompanying image</li><li>Your name</li><li>Your blogs name</li></ul><br /><br />CLOSING DATE: FRIDAY 5TH OF FEBRUARY<br /><br />Send entries to <a href="mailto:ella.inspired@gmail.com">ella.inspired@gmail.com</a> or via my handy <a href="http://ellainspired.blogspot.com/2009/03/contact.html">contact form</a>.<br /><br />Please do not hesitate to ask any questions!<br /><br />So excited to read all of you entries :)<br /><br />*eLLa*

Valentines Day Blog Carnival

Theme: Valentines Day Time: 10AM (Time zone +2:00) Date: 8 - 21st of February 2010 (the week preceding Valentines and the week after) Place:...

Read more »

Audience Participation

<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S026ISYbPuI/AAAAAAAAAhA/MfDezkmfEDM/s1600-h/20090215220431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/S026ISYbPuI/AAAAAAAAAhA/MfDezkmfEDM/s320/20090215220431.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Calling on all readers!!!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've got two projects on the go that require you in order to work :)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Number one: Valentines Day Themed Blog Carnival<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">YAY/NAY<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Number two: Book Club<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">You might remember a while that I started an Amazon Shop as a way to express my love of reading and suggest books to all of you. Now I would like to have a monthly book club where readers submit a review of their favourite book/s of the past or present. Fiction, non fiction, fashion, fantasy you name it - all is welcome!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Simply write a short summary of your thoughts about the book and what kind of reader would like it. Include book name, picture, author and genre.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Leave a comment or send me an email.</i><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Looking forward to your submissions!</i><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>*eLLa*</i><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

Audience Participation

Calling on all readers!!! I've got two projects on the go that require you in order to work :) Number one: Valentines Day Themed Blog Ca...

Read more »

15 Things Every Woman Should Own

<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">Author: <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/about/">Luinae</a><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">Blog: <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/">More Magic Always</a><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">Date: <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/2009/08/23/15-things-every-woman-should-own/">23 August</a><br /></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sw2Lymj3yeI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/Zt-Z-lJybyo/s1600/719172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sw2Lymj3yeI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/Zt-Z-lJybyo/s320/719172.jpg" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">While I am not quite a girl, but not yet a woman- I am a young adult. Lately, between all of my travel, back to school shopping, style posts, I've been giving some thought to what it means to be a woman in the 21st century. And not a ditzy, perfume wearing, shopaholic, clubbing woman. I'm talking about about an empowered woman. She is confident, beautiful, and in possesion of the skills, clothes, and knowledge she needs to make a wonderful life for herself. Why 15 things every woman should own? Well, I am currently 14 years old, and in keeping with the theme set in <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/2009/07/29/15-things/" target="_self"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;">this post</span></a>- I will be 15 at my next birthday, and I should have amassed these 15 things. <b>Here is what I think every woman should have in her life: </b><br /></span><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>1. The Perfect Dress- </b>And I don't think it has to be black, either. (Black has the tendancy to make me look like a goth) Choose your favourite colour(s) and find this perfect dress. You should be able to wear it to cocktail parties, weddings, dances, graduations, or times when you just want to feel extra cute!<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>2. A Passport- </b>Because travelling is eye-opening and interesting, not to mention great style inspiration! And what is more fabulous then jetting off to Europe or America? Nothing, that's what.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>3. A Makeup Kit- </b>Every woman's kit will be different- some will hold barely 12 products, while others will need shelves to organize there collection. I think every woman should own a makeup kit because it's a mood booster and it helps you feel great, and it's totally fun! Besides, studies show that women who wear makeup will get a promotion faster. Who knew?<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>4. An Ipod- </b>Because music is the soul of life. It has the power to insire and move, and bring happiness and joy. And when you have an Ipod, you get to enjoy all the fun of buying cute headphones and cases! What 21st century woman doesn't have a portable music player, full of fabulous songs?<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>5. A Gorgeous Wallet- </b>Instead of having to dig around in your purse, whip out a fantastic wallet- it should carry your keys, credit/debit cards, cash, coupons, I.D, and receipts. Mine is a beautiful black wallet that was a present from my sisters 2 years ago- I wouldn't even dream of carrying something else. You should be able to toss it into your bag and go.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>6. A Best Lady Friend- </b>While you don't own this, what would a woman be without one? If you have nothing else on this list- you must have a best lady friend! She should be honest, caring, funny, intelligent, has some similar and some different interests, who goes fun adventures with you, does silly things at midnight and make you feel better. The one you call when you had the crappiest day in the world because hearing her voice makes it better.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>7. A Perfect Coat- </b>Preferrably a cut that will never go out of style- peacoats and trenchs are my favourites. You should be able to wear this coat with ANYTHING, and it should be good enough quality to last for years.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>8. A Gorgeous Planner- </b>Personally, I am in love with my soft cover moleskine planner. This item is necessary- to be filled with all of the things to do in your life. Now, you will never miss an appointment, party, or anything ever again. A truly essential item that you will carry everywhere, so make it stylish. I love moleskines but there are other cute options like pink leather planners and such.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>9. Big, Dark Sunglasses- </b>For some extra movie star appeal, to be incognito, to hide dark circles, and to spy on your Ex while in Starbucks. O.k, maybe not that last one! Seriously though, these are such an essential! They help you look pulled together on days when you feel blah, and they protect your eyes from the sun- which could actually prevent eye wrinkles.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>10. A Scarf- </b>This is a personal style obsession of mine, but every woman should have one. It adds instant style to a t-shirt, suit, or dress. No matter what colour or style you choose, and if you want to wear it in a Parisian knot, a head wrap, or a knot- it will ad instant oomph and style to your outfit. How very French.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>11. A Big Bag- </b>Because you need to carry around lots of things, like your planner, cellphone, wallet, pens, a book, waterbottle, and all of the other things your purse seems to collect. Everyone has their favourites, so there is no right style, but you need one!<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>12. Fantastic Gloves- </b>Probally one of the lesser known items on this list, but I believe that the right pair of gloves can instantly pull an outift together, especially in the Fall, Winter, and Spring when you are so often see in a coat, gloves are instant style. This is not the time to be sedate- amass a collection of pinks, blacks, blues and all colours of the rainbow!<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>13. A Favourite Accessory- </b>As of the moment, mine are super long earrings. They accentuate my long neck and elegant collarbones- 2 of my favourite parts of my body. <a href="http://cafefashionista.blogspot.com/" target="_self"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;">Cafe Fashionista</span></a> is rarely seen without a cocktail ring, it is her favourite- something you can incorporate into an outfit and something you love. It tends to change with time, but they are essentail, as they make the outfit you.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>14. A Pair of Heels- </b>Oh, what a glorious item! They improve your posture, make you look slimmer, are impossibly chic, and give you an air of confidence. Black or purple, closed or peeptoe, 3 or 4 inch, the choice is yours. You may have to spend a little bit of extra money to get the perfect ones, but darling- it is <b>so </b>worth it.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>15. A Hat- </b>You can pull one off, there are about a million kinds out there, so I don't want to hear any excuses! Berets are so, so chic, top off an outfit perfectly, can be worn with an air of nonchalance- and you will look like you stepped off the train from France. Vintage shops are paritcurly good for this, as the hats there will carry an old movie star glam feel.<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b>What do you think a woman should have in her life? What do you think of my list? </b></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><b><i>*eLLa*</i> </b><br /></span>

15 Things Every Woman Should Own

Author: Luinae Blog: More Magic Always Date: 23 August While I am not quite a girl, but not yet a woman- I am a young adult. Lately, between...

Read more »

Everyday Makeup - basics

Author: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/11940407392729161913">Leia</a><br />Blog: <a href="http://hifashionsl.blogspot.com/">Hifashion</a><br />Date: <a href="http://hifashionsl.blogspot.com/2009/02/everyday-make-up-basics.html">14 February</a><br /><br />I'm definitely not a make-up expert, but for me, looking natural is most important. I thought I would share some of my tips and tricks to achieve an everyday, natural look.<br /><br /><br /><div>1.) Prep the skin<br /><br />My skin is naturally very dry, so moisturizing it is always my first step. I read once that everything you put on your skin is absorbed by it, and the chemicals in store-bought creams can end up in your blood stream. I don't know if this is true or not, but I do try to use natural products to moisturize my skin. At night, I slather my face with natural <a href="http://www.google.co.uk/products?q=shea%20butter&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&hl=en&tab=wf">shea butter</a>, and in the morning, I apply a thin layer of <a href="http://www.google.co.uk/products?q=almond%20oil&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&hl=en&tab=wf">almond oil</a> and massage it in. Both are very affordable, last a long time, and can also be used on dry hair.<br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div>2.) Dark circles<br /><br />The skin under my eyes is naturally slightly darker than the rest of my skin. I think many people are prone to dark under eye circles, especially those with South Asian skin tones. I find that using concealer can make you suddenly look awake; my favourite is Benefit's <a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/gp/product/B0015YOMYU/ref=sr_11_1/191-5861159-1347101?ie=UTF8&bcBrand=core&nodeID=APS">Boi-ing</a> which I use from my <a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/gp/product/B000FBNYTI/ref=sr_11_1/191-5861159-1347101?ie=UTF8&bcBrand=core&nodeID=APS">Realness of Concealness</a> kit.<br />Some natural remedies if you suffer from dark circles:<br /></div><br /><br /><ul><li>Use cold slices of cucumer or used teabags on your eyes for a few minutes. </li><li>Gently tap almond oil under your eyes before bed at night. </li><li>Get plenty of sleep! </li><li>Drink plenty of water. </li><li> Make sure you eat plenty of green</li></ul><br />3.) Foundation<br /><br /><div>I don't find that foundation is a necessity for everyday. It is great for making skin tones appear even, or covering up blemishes. However, I find that it can sometimes look cakey or unnatural. Some ways to combat this is to mix your foundation with some moisturizer before applying it, making it thinner and letting your natural radiance shine through as well.<br />I do really like to use a tinted moisturizer, though. I have heard that in the winter, foundation can act as a barrier for your skin against the cold and the wind - I'm hoping this is true for tinted moisturizer as well! My favorite is Benefit's <a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/gp/product/B000FBLTJA/sr=1-1/qid=1234612240/ref=sr_1_1/191-5861159-1347101?ie=UTF8&bcBrand=core">YouRebel</a>.<br /><br />A great, natural-looking foundation is the one made by <a href="https://www.bareminerals.co.uk/?kw=bare%20minerals&fl=224086&ci=2028818564&network=s">BareMinerals.</a> It's supposed to be really healthy for your skin as well. I bought mine in a kit from Selfridges; I think it was around £50 in total, but it came with two colors of foundation (skin tone can vary during the course of the year), a blush/contour color called Warmth (one of my favorite colors ever! It's so natural), a finishing powder, and three brushes. Lots of make-up companies have started to sell mineral make-up, so it's definitely worth trying out. What I love about mineral make-up is that you can apply as little or as much as you like, depending on the coverage you need.<br />But, for me, it is not something I use every day - just because of the hassle of it! My top priority is quick and easy in the mornings.<br /></div><br /><br /><br />4.) Blush<br /><br />Too many people forget to use blush! I think it's really important, though, because it really gives your skin a healthy glow. My two favorites are the Warmth by BareMinerals, as mentioned above, and Benefit's <a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/gp/product/B000FBK5HW/sr=1-1/qid=1234612571/ref=sr_1_1/191-5861159-1347101?ie=UTF8&bcBrand=core">Benetint</a><a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/gp/product/B000FBK5HW/sr=1-1/qid=1234612571/ref=sr_1_1/191-5861159-1347101?ie=UTF8&bcBrand=core">. </a><br /><br />5.) Eyes<br /><br />I think we can all agree that eye make-up is the most important! I know that for girls with fairer skin and lighter hair, mascara is an everyday essential. For me, that essential is eyeliner/kajal. I only wear mascara a couple of times a week, and on special occasions (current favorites are <a href="http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P40404">DiorShow</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Max-Factor-Masterpiece-Mascara-Black/dp/B001BLJBW0">MaxFactor Masterpiece</a>). Usually, I will just draw a thin line of pencil eyeliner on top, underneath, and inside the eye, and I am ready to go. My favorite eyeliners are <a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/gp/product/B001L1J1B6/sr=1-1/qid=1234617166/ref=sr_1_1/191-5861159-1347101?ie=UTF8&bcBrand=core">Benefit's BadGal liner</a> and <a href="http://www.stilacosmetics.com/product_detail.asp?PMID=120&category_id=4&pos=1&viewall=yes">Stila's Kajal eye liner</a>.<br />As for eye shadow (when I have time to worry about it!) I recently bought the Benefit <a href="http://www.asos.com/Benefit/Benefit-Big-Beautiful-Eyes-Kit/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=445157&cid=5842&clr=EyeContourKit&sh=0">Big Beautiful Eyes</a> kit (I'm sorry if I sound like a Benefit ad, I just really like their products!). It has got lovely, natural colors, and the darker ones can be used for a dressier look. If you are trying to look as natural as possible, it's important to choose eyeshadows that are matte, rather than sparkly or shimmery (the latter can be saved for nights out!)<br /><br />6.) Lips<br /><br />Much as I love red lipstick, it is a bit dramatic for every day! I have very dry lips (I swear by <a href="http://www.carmex.co.uk/?gclid=CIe61N-Q5JgCFQxHQwodthULdg">Carmex</a>) so I usually start with some lip stain - Stila's <a href="http://www.stilacosmetics.com/product_detail.asp?PMID=498">Cherry Crush</a> or <a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/gp/product/B000FBK5HW/sr=1-1/qid=1234612571/ref=sr_1_1/191-5861159-1347101?ie=UTF8&bcBrand=core">Benetint</a> - and put some lip balm on top. You can also line your lips with a natural/nude shade and top with gloss, like the ever-popular Lancome <a href="http://www.lancome.co.uk/_en/_gb/catalog/product.aspx?prdcode=115012&categorycode=AXEMakeup">Juicy Tu</a><a href="http://www.lancome.co.uk/_en/_gb/catalog/product.aspx?prdcode=115012&categorycode=AXEMakeup">be</a>.<br />Those are my tips for achieving a simple, natural look! My morning routine usually consists of concealer, kajal, and blush, but when I have more time, I try to incorporate some of the other things mentioned here. What are your everyday make-up essentials? Post about them in the comments below!<br /><br />xx Leia<br /><br /><i>*eLLa*</i>

Everyday Makeup - basics

Author: Leia Blog: Hifashion Date: 14 February I'm definitely not a make-up expert, but for me, looking natural is most important. I tho...

Read more »

More Magic Always Defines Beauty

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Author: <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/about/">Luinae</a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Blog: <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/">More Magic Always</a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Date: <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/2009/11/09/more-magic-always-defines-beautiful/">9 November</a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sw2KvwyWHgI/AAAAAAAAAXI/r-4SvOV8R_w/s1600/20090706012859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sw2KvwyWHgI/AAAAAAAAAXI/r-4SvOV8R_w/s320/20090706012859.jpg" /></a><br /></div><br /><br />I have long wanted to write my own definition of beautiful. <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">So, here we go! This is what I, and not society, thinks makes a beautiful woman today.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">To be frank, I'm fed up with being told what beautiful is. I don't want to hear one more time that being tan makes you look prettier- it has nothing to do with how "beautiful" you are. I am not 6 foot tall and I don't weigh 110 pounds and I'm not going to. I don't have perfect proportions but that <b>does not </b>make me less beautiful. So what does make you beautiful?</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">♥ A <b>beautiful </b>woman is passionate about something- art, design, writing, math, fashion, politics, whatever!</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">♥ A <b>beautiful </b>woman is stylishly organized. She has a lovely planner and is never rumaging through a disorganized purse for keys.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">♥ A <b>beautiful </b>woman speaks eloquently. She uses proper sentences and can communicate her ideas.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">♥ A <b>beautiful </b>woman may know what the current trends are. And then she wears whatever she feels like and makes her feel good.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">♥ A <b>beautiful </b>woman is not afraid of showing the world who she truely is. She embraces the unique person she is each and every day.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">♥ A <b>beautiful </b>woman embraces her unique appearance. She isn't upset because she has a large bust, dark skin, brown eyes, or a short torso. She makes the most of what she has.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">♥ A <b>beautiful </b>woman has a talent of some sort. Anything and everything goes. Women who can sing, write poetry, argue a point, run a marathon, write a PhD, write novels, blog daily, dress elegantly are all talented.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">♥ A <b>beautiful </b>woman is clean and well kept. She may or may not wear makeup and have a polished hair style. But she will make an effort to wash her face, etc.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;">♥ A <b>beautiful </b>woman loves her life.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><i>-Luinae</i></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 12pt;"><i>*eLLa*</i><i> </i><br /></span>

More Magic Always Defines Beauty

Author: Luinae Blog: More Magic Always Date: 9 November I have long wanted to write my own definition of beautiful. So, here we go! This is ...

Read more »

Next Blog Carnival

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Szd9GbVpxoI/AAAAAAAAAf4/0qv3bEVvF8o/s1600-h/420835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Szd9GbVpxoI/AAAAAAAAAf4/0qv3bEVvF8o/s320/420835.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://wwww.weheartit.com/">we heart it</a><br /></div><br />I have received loads of feedback regarding this months Blog Carnival and lots of people expressed disappointment at not knowing about it as they really wanted to enter. While this one has taught me a lot and has not been without its glitches from my side which I do sincerely apologise for, I am really keen to host another!<br /><br />Please vote for the next Carnival Theme by leaving a comment:<br />1.) Lesson's I've learn from/about..........<br />2.) Valentines Day<br />3.) Suggest a theme<br /><br />Please leave a comment with a theme or your feedback on the current Carnival or the hosting of a new one.<br /><br /><i>*eLLa*</i>

Next Blog Carnival

  we heart it I have received loads of feedback regarding this months Blog Carnival and lots of people expressed disappointment at not knowi...

Read more »

Life Lessons From University

Author: <a href="http://adressandabike.wordpress.com/about/">Dawn</a><br />Blog: <a href="http://adressandabike.wordpress.com/">A dress & A bike  </a><br />Date: <a href="http://adressandabike.wordpress.com/2009/08/26/life-lessons-from-university/">26 August</a><br /><br />I graduated yesterday after four long years of study and fun in university. The speeches were long-winded and referenced the recession a bit too frequently. Lots of standing around, clapping and shaking hands… but at the same time, it was good to receive my parchment with my degree, watch the pomp of the PhD graduation and receive some encouraging comments from my dissertation supervisor. Of course all this meant that my friends and I spent a few hours that night reminiscing about college life and the lessons we learned in four years…<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SyUlKw7gY7I/AAAAAAAAAbY/n4ns4An9AmM/s1600-h/2441933336_9d408f004d_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SyUlKw7gY7I/AAAAAAAAAbY/n4ns4An9AmM/s320/2441933336_9d408f004d_m.jpg" /></a><br /></div><br /><ul><li>Friends do not magically appear at your door. You need to go out and meet new people, talk to the person next to you in lectures and tutorials, join clubs or societies, make a contribution to student politics and socialise with your housemates. Friends can be made at any age on the basis of any interest and most importantly, may be the person you least expect to end up being friends with. Friendships need work, maintenance and love. They will have their good times and they will have their bad times…</li></ul><ul><li>Know when to say goodbye to someone who is no longer a friend and to distance yourself from some who is a negative drain on you. Recognise when it is a time to hold your ground and defend your opinions, and when you just need to quieten down. Let fights go and don't bring them back up again four years later 'cos that's just poor form! Also the girl that you thought was an unpleasant person can change so always always give them the benefit of the doubt.</li></ul><ul><li>Alcohol is great but it's also extremely horrible at the same time. Know your limits, don't mix your drinks, keep an eye on your drink and always always try to remember that your judgement is affected by drinking. Don't be the girl whose life is affected by a stupid decision made while drunk.</li></ul><ul><li>Experimentation is the name of the game in university. At uni, you have so many unbelievable opportunities to try new things so go experiment with identities, interests, looks, clothes, sports, classes and so on. You might never know, you could discover you have a natural flair for computer games or a esoteric interest in 16th century English literature.</li></ul><ul><li>Choose whom you live with very carefully. I have lived with random strangers and my best friends, and both of these living arrangements were fraught with difficulties. Different personality types tend to clash and you have to be able to walk away from household arguments without affecting your friendship. Also, living together will tend to expose any cracks in a unhealthy friendship so beware.</li></ul><ul><li>Some housemates can be odd about household stuff and can made random requests about the cleanliness/ quietness/ visitors/ cooking. Listen to their requests and make a compromise… Try to keep your house/ apartment's public areas somewhat clean and make a suitable arrangement with your housemates about this. Have a filthy, messy bedroom if you want but having clean tidy public areas can prevent so many arguments.</li></ul><ul><li>Try to start projects early in the semester by even getting the resources and laying the basic groundwork for a good essay. Contribute to tutorials and ask lecturers questions if you are confused. Remember lecturers don't really buy the excuse of 'my computer broke' or 'the printer crashed' so get your projects finished with plenty of time for technical errors or horrible hangovers. Should you be genuinely ill or otherwise unable to finish a project, your lecturer should have informed you in your module guidelines about the best way to proceed.</li></ul><ul><li>Most importantly, remember university is about both learning and having fun. Find that balance, get good grades but also have those memories from that crazy night out.</li></ul><br /><b>Any uni students have any more tips for surviving undergrad life?</b><br /><br /><i>*eLLa*</i><b> <br /></b>

Life Lessons From University

Author: Dawn Blog: A dress & A bike  Date: 26 August I graduated yesterday after four long years of study and fun in university. The spe...

Read more »

Flaunt your Favourite Feature

<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Author: <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/about/">Luinae </a><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Blog: <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/">More Magic Always</a><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Date: <a href="http://moremagicalways.wordpress.com/2009/08/12/flaunt-your-favourite-feature/">12 August</a><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKBjJkC75I/AAAAAAAAAd4/t6UgFyiJNo0/s1600-h/animated-girl-smelling-flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKBjJkC75I/AAAAAAAAAd4/t6UgFyiJNo0/s320/animated-girl-smelling-flower.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Instead of trying to cake on tons of makeup, copy the look of your best friend, or mimic what you see in a magazine, why don't you play up your favourite feature? Do you want to enhance your gorgeous green eyes, flawless charcoal skin, or sculpted cheekbones? Decide what feature is your favourite, or what people compliment you on the most, and then use this blog post to play up your favourite feature!<br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Remember, if you are playing up one particular feature, keep the rest of your face low key so that particular feature stands out!</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Lucious Lips<br /></b></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Before you go to bed at night, put a coat of <a href="http://international.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=13346&catid=26911&aid=333181&aparam=sespider" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;">vaseline</span></a> on your lips to prep them and make them soft and smooth for tomorrow.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Use an ultra- sheer, shimmery gloss that has a hint of colour, to add sparkle and shine and accent the natural shape of your lips.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKCdF7c_bI/AAAAAAAAAeA/D4RHJ4jmHLA/s1600-h/657305_fpx.tif.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKCdF7c_bI/AAAAAAAAAeA/D4RHJ4jmHLA/s320/657305_fpx.tif.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Flawless Skin<br /></b></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">When you cleanse your face tonight, mix some white sugar and extra virgin olive oil together and apply to your face. The sugar is a great exfoliant and the extra virgin olive oil makes your skin silky smooth and super soft.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Instead of covering up your great skin with foundation and powder, try a tinted moisturizer to let your natural skin glow through. If you can, even go without foundation…………and know that we're all very jealous.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKC75k1MXI/AAAAAAAAAeI/Ghd82uTWWJQ/s1600-h/445466_fpx.tif.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKC75k1MXI/AAAAAAAAAeI/Ghd82uTWWJQ/s320/445466_fpx.tif.jpg" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Sculpted Cheekbones<br /></b></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Next time you go out for a walk on a cold day, check the colour that your cheeks turn in the cold air. This is your natural pigmentation and should be the blush colour you try to match.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Once, you've applied your blush, use a highlighter on the top of your cheekbones so they really stand out. To find your cheekbones, place 2 fingers under the outside corner of your eye. You bottom finger should be resting on your cheekbone.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKDGbhzaVI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/uKuATDxzAiA/s1600-h/highlighter_1237932572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKDGbhzaVI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/uKuATDxzAiA/s320/highlighter_1237932572.jpg" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Stunning Eyes<br /></b></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Eyes are the window to the soul, after all. Eyes are easy to play up, and can become very captivating and lovely with a few simple tips.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Apply a neutral eyeshadow from your lash line up to your crease and extend a little above the crease. This provide the background for the next step.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKDO5F7YZI/AAAAAAAAAeY/OubvmlaeNSQ/s1600-h/200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKDO5F7YZI/AAAAAAAAAeY/OubvmlaeNSQ/s320/200.jpg" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Apply a thin layer of black eyeliner along the upper lash line, as close to the lashes as possible. Wing slightly at the ends to create a fun look!</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKDZaS_Y-I/AAAAAAAAAeg/fQKfq9JImdc/s1600-h/img-thing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKDZaS_Y-I/AAAAAAAAAeg/fQKfq9JImdc/s320/img-thing.jpg" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>Awesome Hair<br /></b></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">If you have naturally beautiful hair, stick with what you got! Don't waste your time on blow dryers and flat irons if your hair is already fantastic.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">It doesn't matter weather your hair is curly, wavy, or straight. Put in an anti-frizz serum the night before and let air dry. In the morning brush and go for natural and beautiful hair!</span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKD9-NLZGI/AAAAAAAAAeo/ejZyCl-C1cM/s1600-h/John-Frieda-Frizz-Ease-Hair_2FC41BB8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/SzKD9-NLZGI/AAAAAAAAAeo/ejZyCl-C1cM/s320/John-Frieda-Frizz-Ease-Hair_2FC41BB8.jpg" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>What's your fave feature on your face? How do you play up your best features? Let us know in the comments!</b></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b><i>*eLLa*</i> </b><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br /></div>

Flaunt your Favourite Feature

Author: Luinae Blog: More Magic Always Date: 12 August Instead of trying to cake on tons of makeup, copy the look of your best friend, or mi...

Read more »

The 20’s = Puberty for the mind

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Author: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/09515168461170208806">Linda</a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Blog: <a href="http://celluloidgeek.blogspot.com/">Celluloid Geek</a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Date: <a href="http://celluloidgeek.blogspot.com/2009/10/20s-puberty-for-mind.html">10 May</a><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sw2In4uEH2I/AAAAAAAAAXA/i6eO5mIRv4U/s1600/thinking-girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sw2In4uEH2I/AAAAAAAAAXA/i6eO5mIRv4U/s320/thinking-girl.jpg" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><br />I thought the teen years were awkward, but it seems like puberty has an equally blundering and self-conscious sibling known as the 20s.<br /><br /><br />Rather than growth spurts, hair in new places, and manic sexual urges you have new ideas about the world, self-reflection and a never-ending quest to find our destined path/job/lover/life and I find this new stage scarier than when my chest first appeared.<br /><br /><br />Your previous institution has kicked your behind out of their pearly-gated, green-grass-growing 'safe zone', degree in hand, and now you're in the real world my friend.<br /><br /><br />While in school, you were either one of two things: a hippie-dream-following-liberal-arts-geek or a suit-wearing-shades-of-grey-right-or-wrong-practical-degree-follower. If you were the latter, you are probably behind a cubicle somewhere, enjoying the cash flow but hating yourself for pursuing that business degree. Let's leave you 'colors-within-the-lines' folk aside. I want to talk about my liberal arts, hippie brethren and sistren (and yes, that is the female equivalent).<br /><br /><br />If you decided to follow your dreams, I feel you. The job market sucks and the writers at Avenue Q hit the nail on the head with the question, "What can you do with a B.A. in English?" Nothing apparently. So you move back home to save money, see your dreams fluttering by when you couldn't afford your ivy-league dream schools and think three little letters to yourself:<br /><br />WTF.<br /><br /><br />So four years of working your butt off momentarily flickers in your mind as a waste; since those As in your portfolio aren't looking like anything concrete. No worries you think. You always etched in 300 back-up plans in your monthly planner. But those red ink x's you scratch above your original plans bring you down.<br /><br />Sure, maybe life did not quite plan out the way you had hoped, but if you are anything like me, the surprises are what it is about. Yeah puberty had the mystery of training bras and maxi pads, but the 20s has a lifetime of surprises to begin to unravel.<br /><br /><i>*eLLa*</i>

The 20’s = Puberty for the mind

Author: Linda Blog: Celluloid Geek Date: 10 May I thought the teen years were awkward, but it seems like puberty has an equally blundering a...

Read more »

How to change your perception

<span style="color: black;">Author: <a href="http://www.mermaidinamanhole.com/2009/01/about-me.html">Kim</a> <br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;">Blog: <a href="http://www.mermaidinamanhole.com/">Mermaid in a manhole</a><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;">Date: <a href="http://www.mermaidinamanhole.com/2009/11/how-to-change-your-perception.html">11 June</a></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sy_ggg5i3zI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/rMBZpr766vk/s1600-h/sparkler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sy_ggg5i3zI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/rMBZpr766vk/s320/sparkler.jpg" /></a><br /></div><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;">To change your life you must first change the way you perceive the world. Putting a positive slant on the way you view things can change your life for the better and even alter the way you see the past. Your own perception is your reality and you can choose how you view the world.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><b>But how?</b></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><b><br /></b></span><br /></div><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Start making the positives stand out more in your mind than the negatives. It's really easy to take things the wrong way, see things for way worse than they are, and ultimately make ourselves miserable. You're still going to see the negatives, but put less weight on them. You can choose what's more important.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Before you go to bed, make a mental or physical list of everything wonderful that happened in your day. Everything you are thankful for. It's a great pick me up and a wonderful thing to think about in those thoughtful moments before drifting off. It's also great to do this if you're feeling down.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> View people as they truly are. Put yourself in the shoes of others and think about how they view the world and what might lead them to act the way they do. If someone's particularly positive and pleasant, think about why that is. If someone's hurtful and negative, think about what makes them that way. A little insightful thinking can drastically change the way you view situations, especially conflicts.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Stop complaining and find a solution. Effort is much better spent fixing a problem than venting about it. If the solution isn't in your hands, separate yourself from the issue.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Stressful thoughts should be banished. Creating more positive thoughts to outweigh the negative thoughts is extremely effective. Don't talk or think down to yourself.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Enter new situations with a positive outlook. You're not psychic and you don't know how situations are going to be so enter them assuming that they're going to be just fine. Most of the things you worry about never even end up happening and if they do you'll get through it.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Accept the fact that you can't control everything and just focus on how you can best react to situations instead of worrying about them occurring.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Stop and smell the roses. Really. Don't rush through your days and forget to notice all the little things that make life beautiful.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Recognize when to let the chips fall where they may and when to take control.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Remind yourself how lucky you are for all the amazing things in your life.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Learn to let things roll off. There are some excessive negatives in life that are unwanted and completely unnecessary. A lot of these negatives come from disgruntled individuals who don't know how to effectively get rid of stress & anger. Recognize that and only put weight on truths that should be addressed.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Learn how to address negatives positively.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Dedicate more time to learning and exploring instead of dwelling and venting.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Recognize where things truly stand in order of importance.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Learn to cherish the time you have with others instead of getting hung up on little negatives.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Look at what you have instead of always pining for what you don't.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Recognize the importance of beauty in the world in all of its forms.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Don't be afraid to laugh at yourself sometimes.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Banish self pity and adopt an "it could be worse" philosophy. It could, I promise.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Don't get caught up in other people's perception. This is dangerously easy to do, but keep control of your own views.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">♥</span> Spread the magic of positive perception. Remind others of the positives in negative situations.</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;">"If the doors of perception were cleansed, everything would appear as it is - infinite" - William Blake</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;">"Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing." - Camille Pissarro</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;">"After sleeping through a hundred million centuries we have finally opened our eyes on a sumptuous planet, sparkling with color, beautiful with life. Within decades we must close our eyes again. Isn't it noble, an enlightened way of spending our brief time in the sun, to work at understanding the universe and how we have come to wake up in it? This is how I answer when I am asked-as I am surprisingly often-why I bother to get up in the mornings." - Richard Dawkins</span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sy_g43uczEI/AAAAAAAAAdY/0d9c78m5AEg/s1600-h/mermaidsignature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rDDO2quPfZk/Sy_g43uczEI/AAAAAAAAAdY/0d9c78m5AEg/s320/mermaidsignature.jpg" /></a><br /></div><span style="color: black;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color: black;"><br /></span>

How to change your perception

Author: Kim Blog: Mermaid in a manhole Date: 11 June To change your life you must first change the way you perceive the world. Putting a po...

Read more »

Sienna Miller – Star Style

<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333;">Author: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/11050054196437279227">Rachel</a><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333;">Blog: <a href="http://theredheadfashionista.blogspot.com/">The Readhead Fashionista</a><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333;">Date: <a href="http://theredheadfashionista.blogspot.com/2009/09/sienna-miller-star-style.html">22 September</a><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">Continuing on with the reader requested star style posts...<br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">Today we have Sienna Miller!</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiae0_vrk7WU8WGIurwR5wRhDTo1M1pofN2E-Dp6TcDAy5K6IC8TvTcFeBMt-NJwnEk3YjYs46vWdRskVnl0rFiTRESQfmvaE8XrrH7kcbzPUWluzZKQfJuBGefCpAse1uEbtVcgXqmXAo/s1600-h/Leaving_her_mom__s_house__December_30__2007.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384281871652701874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiae0_vrk7WU8WGIurwR5wRhDTo1M1pofN2E-Dp6TcDAy5K6IC8TvTcFeBMt-NJwnEk3YjYs46vWdRskVnl0rFiTRESQfmvaE8XrrH7kcbzPUWluzZKQfJuBGefCpAse1uEbtVcgXqmXAo/s320/Leaving_her_mom__s_house__December_30__2007.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 213px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGyS387hmMI1-2MP0bJF-TM9TK-DS_S99s66hQG8arx6Naor8y0-9giTvmhZ8Fb5eC1LTMieaVsUp6nWRqSPON8HTO8xBagYNy783J7OVWpUnAxV7d4XFQ_l3l-jcK4PzuG9_K8fv1nU/s1600-h/At_LAX_Airport__April_03__2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384281301155091698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGyS387hmMI1-2MP0bJF-TM9TK-DS_S99s66hQG8arx6Naor8y0-9giTvmhZ8Fb5eC1LTMieaVsUp6nWRqSPON8HTO8xBagYNy783J7OVWpUnAxV7d4XFQ_l3l-jcK4PzuG9_K8fv1nU/s320/At_LAX_Airport__April_03__2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 176px;" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">A great coat and a heavy scarf are always nice items to have when the weather gets cold! While out in London, Sienna wears a plaid coat and carries a Tod's bag.</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">She was spotted at the airport wearing a scarf, Earnest Sewn jeans, a printed top, and a black jacket.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzj1FwxdlCqzuN8xixLItuzp902vNsvYnk8uWmOeroROuoASE-atMizZZUX0gn6eSiXp2kfNKRN3MipL8Smq5TIK35nWt_cZ7FRJYEFlCfB-BJjpRSY4EutQQlXtSMf-oIKa3-aoltINg/s1600-h/2009_MTV_Movie_Awards__May_31_2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384281274884140818" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzj1FwxdlCqzuN8xixLItuzp902vNsvYnk8uWmOeroROuoASE-atMizZZUX0gn6eSiXp2kfNKRN3MipL8Smq5TIK35nWt_cZ7FRJYEFlCfB-BJjpRSY4EutQQlXtSMf-oIKa3-aoltINg/s320/2009_MTV_Movie_Awards__May_31_2009.jpg" style="height: 320px; width: 201px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDh_D3qvH49U6a1PwGdtxu-TOCZ5-Y736zo9_Tj21SQ61X136Lhbz6OO4yBFMG1aZrau9STrABM6P7oZphKDQX7bBxbC67tu7rnMGjbcseymkYHAMwA1uBPwmyKO3qacaNzLVNlo6goOI/s1600-h/Arriving_at_the_CBS_Studios_in_New_York__August_03__2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384281276691357170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDh_D3qvH49U6a1PwGdtxu-TOCZ5-Y736zo9_Tj21SQ61X136Lhbz6OO4yBFMG1aZrau9STrABM6P7oZphKDQX7bBxbC67tu7rnMGjbcseymkYHAMwA1uBPwmyKO3qacaNzLVNlo6goOI/s320/Arriving_at_the_CBS_Studios_in_New_York__August_03__2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 200px;" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">What sparkling ensembles! A Twenty8Twelve dress and Nicholas Kirkwood pumps look perfect on the Red Carpet at the 2009 MTV Movie Awards.</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">Sienna arrived at the CBS Studios in New York wearing a draped skirt and sequined top by Derek Lam.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDbmFiiGfu6jM9MG9mRBcpv5Fs3fX1Xo1zfn7hKwuV7ym4eQeE7VMbjNgz5VD-BLbJwIj97qOKlrP_1EjNrHntTVNq_IQj_9ig5Uuv_MW693EO40uocgw_-LHNtK9ethnvsdu689OVO8/s1600-h/out_in_New_York___August_18_2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384282290382571170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDbmFiiGfu6jM9MG9mRBcpv5Fs3fX1Xo1zfn7hKwuV7ym4eQeE7VMbjNgz5VD-BLbJwIj97qOKlrP_1EjNrHntTVNq_IQj_9ig5Uuv_MW693EO40uocgw_-LHNtK9ethnvsdu689OVO8/s320/out_in_New_York___August_18_2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 192px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLbsubJ8WaUVPjnAsZBxB3E9aNDumPzwuJOYrP9u3B_51VNS-qTJ7BR_qvK2ILeUKToIBnUL3QgvMmGl5dZ6g6bgO4w2kvFniqtaGsdiYw0Nncizb3_f9SKZK6kmORmFIMbqVQlUm2Mew/s1600-h/Out_in_New_York__August_20__2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384282307390643938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLbsubJ8WaUVPjnAsZBxB3E9aNDumPzwuJOYrP9u3B_51VNS-qTJ7BR_qvK2ILeUKToIBnUL3QgvMmGl5dZ6g6bgO4w2kvFniqtaGsdiYw0Nncizb3_f9SKZK6kmORmFIMbqVQlUm2Mew/s320/Out_in_New_York__August_20__2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 200px;" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">Proving it's okay to wear the same thing twice, Sienna wears her simple, striped tank in different ways. She pairs it with a Twenty8Twelve skirt, Rupert Sanderson brogues, a Prada bag, and Benjamin Nicole sunglasses.</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">The same tank looks great with jeans and Havaianas flip-flops.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyFY94LaOSCNrryX1d5LMf7e2bUDgSY6XC-a_2S0ONdJs6wBlSxM-YVIm7KForZnUgsGwLiEDKgw8jCYAo2KDkFEsljhYf30Mq5OdJBaYF2z_VR4Ec_T5HApVZuC1b0ebjD7EPr4Jphbw/s1600-h/At_Anastasia_Salon_in_Beverly_Hills__May_29__2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384281291842389634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyFY94LaOSCNrryX1d5LMf7e2bUDgSY6XC-a_2S0ONdJs6wBlSxM-YVIm7KForZnUgsGwLiEDKgw8jCYAo2KDkFEsljhYf30Mq5OdJBaYF2z_VR4Ec_T5HApVZuC1b0ebjD7EPr4Jphbw/s320/At_Anastasia_Salon_in_Beverly_Hills__May_29__2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 205px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTtDCB2rPH5F9h9ztZB6FEnMBTIszJbNgHtVS6Ey1rkMtUO5dIivkb9yrZLAlXV0zGRG5alvhD6Xiadg2Ir4rBQLAe4Zvp4I7Yout7_TRGKK5ool7lPq2lbwUWlBMOcEgZvJktXoRCkk/s1600-h/Los_Angeles__May_6__2008.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384282287529012978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTtDCB2rPH5F9h9ztZB6FEnMBTIszJbNgHtVS6Ey1rkMtUO5dIivkb9yrZLAlXV0zGRG5alvhD6Xiadg2Ir4rBQLAe4Zvp4I7Yout7_TRGKK5ool7lPq2lbwUWlBMOcEgZvJktXoRCkk/s320/Los_Angeles__May_6__2008.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 196px;" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">More stripes, because, well, who doesn't love stripes? While out in Beverly Hills, she wears a striped, long-sleeve Chanel tee, Miu Miu ankle boots, and carries an Yves Saint Laurent bag.<br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">A striped tunic dress looks great with a Rock and Republic jacket, Ugg boots, and a Jimmy Choo bag.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTDb4iqq7s79w-8nq-JXo3jo0GB_H9S3IRH2NB-qhf4TNZ0KcvxdC1-nYn31AdejzcBjeoY2GJxE4piWF19yWdy37DtY9VDnqsIbwsb2Ujo7ee17HstncpXPSy1BPKOLvTVojkeKJbeI/s1600-h/G_I__Joe__The_Rise_Of_the__Cobra_Press_Conference_Seoul_Korea___July_29_2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384281848239297058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTDb4iqq7s79w-8nq-JXo3jo0GB_H9S3IRH2NB-qhf4TNZ0KcvxdC1-nYn31AdejzcBjeoY2GJxE4piWF19yWdy37DtY9VDnqsIbwsb2Ujo7ee17HstncpXPSy1BPKOLvTVojkeKJbeI/s320/G_I__Joe__The_Rise_Of_the__Cobra_Press_Conference_Seoul_Korea___July_29_2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 219px;" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">Sienna wore this great printed Diane von Furstenberg dress to a G.I. Joe press conference in Korea.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pE-KJy0GTsXNIK9bvkTnZ9WSjZJqM1Iw7xjcaSU5T9JYid2lKyLKXQOv4QDocZ4afWqtEPKXLTvRCwww82WrLjdMhmEpl8uVLmfUV2lm-sU0HcTjTnmGdnxbXSqY837gi_zQqMoGjus/s1600-h/Shopping_in_London__November_28__2008.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384282631859291810" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pE-KJy0GTsXNIK9bvkTnZ9WSjZJqM1Iw7xjcaSU5T9JYid2lKyLKXQOv4QDocZ4afWqtEPKXLTvRCwww82WrLjdMhmEpl8uVLmfUV2lm-sU0HcTjTnmGdnxbXSqY837gi_zQqMoGjus/s320/Shopping_in_London__November_28__2008.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 199px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwlmNmPD8zWzhfjl6JkZQ_gJL8xifQTaG3-4Niy26no21jlc6KCi2NnHdxNzlkcYZvnOfTg3mxbTtVE2MFN6D9KZdCxAmsWDKcue57tCiW13RjKKtapLXbt0_7prGHzWaZPjNZrT3Plk/s1600-h/Los_Angeles__March_3__2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384281874018611554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwlmNmPD8zWzhfjl6JkZQ_gJL8xifQTaG3-4Niy26no21jlc6KCi2NnHdxNzlkcYZvnOfTg3mxbTtVE2MFN6D9KZdCxAmsWDKcue57tCiW13RjKKtapLXbt0_7prGHzWaZPjNZrT3Plk/s320/Los_Angeles__March_3__2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 212px;" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">While shopping in London, Sienna wears Twenty8Twelve skinny jeans, a printed jacket, and carries a Balenciaga bag.</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">She pairs a black jacket with a Twenty8Twelve top, and Russell & Bromley boots. For accessories, Sienna adds a Chanel cuff.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglWCSPVtSyzgBbRDO1wZlENte9peYx6cBlx4hzIHkzP0GDKs3Y9d56ctvchbSyDx4AT2RuQBrRtCnu9pxvTIrRdyMacdq0VJzBWafDycxF8cd_12cbZiy3_9YykHPFiB1kf8WDB5AJ1Y8/s1600-h/Out_in_New_York__August_04__2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384282302777070802" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglWCSPVtSyzgBbRDO1wZlENte9peYx6cBlx4hzIHkzP0GDKs3Y9d56ctvchbSyDx4AT2RuQBrRtCnu9pxvTIrRdyMacdq0VJzBWafDycxF8cd_12cbZiy3_9YykHPFiB1kf8WDB5AJ1Y8/s320/Out_in_New_York__August_04__2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 163px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FF_LoR9YU5B31gSlK8e4m-uPgxTwyoGhEHkKHFVaEyoUjYEBnr-XGb-gX2U1xtSp8CYQK5kG3-YEMcIzEU7Zper-u9i77pxSCPoJuGpZ_NfQAufU0HDIwjjuEHhK-Ofzyy99Seu1FQI/s1600-h/Walking_In_London__August_29__2008.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384282635231699650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FF_LoR9YU5B31gSlK8e4m-uPgxTwyoGhEHkKHFVaEyoUjYEBnr-XGb-gX2U1xtSp8CYQK5kG3-YEMcIzEU7Zper-u9i77pxSCPoJuGpZ_NfQAufU0HDIwjjuEHhK-Ofzyy99Seu1FQI/s320/Walking_In_London__August_29__2008.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 158px;" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">Sometimes your pants can either make or break an outfit. Bold, printed pants look fab with a Topshop lace top, Yves Saint Laurent bag, and Alexander Wang pumps.<br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">Sienna wore these Twenty8Twelve wide leg pants and a plain, white tee while out in London.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0cPyR0-c_ql8zJ0wGoxrRKkSRMMxax8NDIGJ-mjHqC4D58BAqcReW6hjQylDe-br6R5VMMpRdR96ImniDMkYx4KoMZAGVX5oBKk8U-gNaREEGhxjggE0hCDavdNsov3bg5nPQlVcozi8/s1600-h/Shopping_in_London__May_23__2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384282625130171122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0cPyR0-c_ql8zJ0wGoxrRKkSRMMxax8NDIGJ-mjHqC4D58BAqcReW6hjQylDe-br6R5VMMpRdR96ImniDMkYx4KoMZAGVX5oBKk8U-gNaREEGhxjggE0hCDavdNsov3bg5nPQlVcozi8/s320/Shopping_in_London__May_23__2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 206px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jxTH0oysANEHBbJ_vEZFsy5XMqqu7kfhgccHqrCeBDeNdptK8I7xdivSKnogokYsB1A9OQxRlHjylaOiOKpRmL1bguYnvsOYeQGl8XKvlRAE5aRpvyyJgBDvZn-_HGaiJEK2gsgCEMg/s1600-h/Out_in_New_York__August_03__2009.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384282296199511170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jxTH0oysANEHBbJ_vEZFsy5XMqqu7kfhgccHqrCeBDeNdptK8I7xdivSKnogokYsB1A9OQxRlHjylaOiOKpRmL1bguYnvsOYeQGl8XKvlRAE5aRpvyyJgBDvZn-_HGaiJEK2gsgCEMg/s320/Out_in_New_York__August_03__2009.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 320px; width: 200px;" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">Sienna pairs a printed dress with a Levi's denim vest, and Russel & Bromley boots while shopping in London.<br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">She wears a Diane von Furstenberg dress with Christian Louboutin heels, and carries an Yves Saint Laurent bag.<br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">  <br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #333333;">What do you think of Sienna's style?<br /></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">  <br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><b>Little Red</b></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><i><span style="color: black;">*eLLa*</span></i> </span><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span><br /></div>

Sienna Miller – Star Style

Author: Rachel Blog: The Readhead Fashionista Date: 22 September Continuing on with the reader requested star style posts... Today we have S...

Read more »