Why a blog?

Somewhere to jot down all things I am passionate about.
My little space to rant, rave and ramble on about this and that.
Most of all, just to share my thoughts with the world!

Friday, December 30, 2011

Liebster Blog Award


I was recently informed that I had been nominated for a Liebster Blog Award!  (*)  (I was like WOW are you serious? :-/ )  I then unearthed a double whammy; then I kid you not, a triple treat.  I actually ended up scoring three nominations! :-O  Naturally I was chuffed (nah, I lie, I was absolutely delighted, hehe  ;)) )  \:D/  Afterall, it's not everyday the word 'Award' is linked to yours truly, LOL!  :))

So, for those of you who don't know, the Liebster Blog Award is basically a promotional concept where fellow bloggers endorse small or new blogs by spreading the word throughout the 'Blogosphere'. :-@  I personally feel that receiving an nomination is very encouraging as well!  ;;)   It's nice to know that even though your blog has not been around very long or it mightn't have a swag of loyal followers, there is already a great support network out there, of allies who have already been there, done that. :)



The rules are :

  1. Thank your nominator/s and link back their blog/s.
  2. Select & reveal your five chosen blogs with fewer than 200 followers.
  3. Advise your chosen blogs of their nomination via a comment on their blog.
  4. Copy and paste the award onto your own blog.
  5. Request that your award nominees then forward it on to their own chosen bloggers.

I would like to take this opportunity to express true gratitude to the gorgeous and talented Bella, from Bellameansbeautiful along with the equally remarkable Rebecca from Easy Dress and the super adorable Mandy from The Thoughts of a Girl who were all ever so complementary in nominating me for this 'Honorary Award'.  =D>   Thanks heaps girlfriends, love you to bits :x


The five blogs I am nominating are:


1.      Dimitra's Delusions - A new blog featuring a down-to-earth narrative about beauty, books and random thoughts.  
2.      IndieAna: In Search of the Holy Grail... - Follow the journey of this beauty connoisseur as she searches for the ultimate products.
3.      Lucinda's Beauty Blog - A collection of reviews and feedback that focuses around a topic we all love reading about, budget beauty products.
4.      My Little Space - An entertaining read boasting plenty of beauty related posts with the added spontaneity of randoms about anything and everything in between.
5.      The Beauty of Red Roses - A blogger with a passion for fashion and a duty to beauty, shares her knowledge and opinions on anything surrounding those interests.



Considering I am still only new to the world of blogging myself, I’m certain other newbies will also relate to that ‘GOOD’ feeling you get when you receive a comment or gain a new follower on your blog. <:-P  (Yep, it’s so reassuring isn’t it ;) ) Therefore, I am keen to get involved in anything that helps to share the love and boost traffic for the little guys, who are just starting out (still taking baby steps as they try and find the right direction) and need a bit of additional support from their cohorts.  >:D<   I hope you follow the links and check these guys out coz I'm sure you will enjoy their blogs just as much as I do :)


The two images in this post are generic.

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Festive Giveaway Winner…..





Ho, ho, ho ….It’s time to announce the winner of my Festive Giveaway.  :-SS

The winner was selected randomly using RANDOM.ORG – True Number Generator.  

So, without further ado, the winner is NIDHI  =D>



Congratualtions NIDHI!  <:-P

You have won yourself over $650 worth of beauty booty.  I will be in touch with you shortly to confirm your win, so check your mailbox.  

Thanks to everyone who got involved, I appreciate all the support more than you know.  :x  Overall, I believe this Giveaway was a huge success and I look forward to hosting more Giveaways in 2012.  ;)

Once again, wishing you all the best for the festive season, hope you are surrounded by love, warmth and lots of joy!  May you and your families have a very safe and happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year filled with peace and prosperity!  :)

Seasons Greetings! 

Saturday, December 17, 2011

'Tis the season to be jolly! So, who’s up for a Festive Giveaway?

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED - THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED!!!!

Fa la la la la, la la la la!  Howdy everyone. :-h  Yes, I really do think 'It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go' they’re counting down each day and waiting for the magical sleigh, with Santa Claus and his jolly ho, ho!.  ;)  I’m well and truly into the Festive spirit this year and I LOVE  :x  the joy that generosity sparks when it comes to gift-giving.  With that in mind, I decided to incorporate the good-will tradition into my blog and offer a Festive Giveaway.  *-:)   This way I can do my bit to help spread some ‘holiday cheer’ and ‘share the love’ with one lucky reader.  >:D<  It’s also the ideal opportunity to divulge how eternally grateful and humbled I am for the overwhelming support I have been given since I started my blog this year.  On that note, I believe a Giveaway is the perfect celebration to wrap up 2011, while we speculate on the brighter prospects and goals that we're aspiring toward as we go forth into 2012!  <:-P

My Christmas Tree

So, what's included in the Festive Giveaway?

I have a cupboard literally bursting at the seams with loads of brand spanking new, unopened and unused beauty products that were screaming out to go to a good home.  :-O  I personally hand picked the best of the best from this stash, so I could proffer a variety of mixed beauty booty, which I think should, favourably, appeal to the majority of my audience; all of YOU guys!  ;)  Then, eventually, I hope my Festive Giveaway serves the purpose I had in mind, to spoil someone special and lavish them with an array of gifts that aim to kindle a bit of joy and happiness, along with the reassurance in knowing they are equip with a selection of popular and useful beauty items to kick-start the New Year!  :D

Everything that is included in the Giveaway.


Here’s what’s you will WIN in my Ultimate Beauty Prize Pack :


Skin Care
  • Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser in Normal or Combination 75ml
  • Elizabeth Arden Prevage Face Advanced Anti-Ageing Serum 30ml
  • Alpha-H Liquid Harmony 50ml
  • Neutrogena Healthy Defence Daily Moisturiser SPF 30+ 50ml
  • Nivea Visage Q10 Tinted Day Cream SPF 15 50ml
  • Garnier Youthful Radiance 2 in 1 Tinted Eye Roll-On in Fair to Medium 15ml
  • Napoleon Perdis Bronze Bombshell Body Lotion 40ml


Hair & Nails
  • Essie Chinchilly Matte Duo (Taupe/Grey Polish and Matte Finisher) 2 x 15ml
  • Revitanail Nail Strengthener 30ml
  • Revitanail Limited Edition Mini Hair Straightener
  • Pantene Aqua Light Shampoo & Conditioner 200ml ea
  • L’Oreal Professionnel Tecni.art Liss Control Smooth Control Gel-Cream 150ml


Makeup etc
  • Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse in Sandy Beige Medium 30ml
  • Benefit High Beam 13ml
  • Andrea Accents Natural Lashes in Black (1set)
  • Rimmel 123 Looks Mascara in Black 9.5ml
  • Rimmel Extreme Definition Two Tone Eye Definer in Party Girl
  • Maybelline Eyestudio Eyeshadow Quad in Copper Chic
  • Australis Intensif Eye Eyeshadow Quad in The Big Smoke
  • Australis Intensif Eye Eyeshadow Trio in Out of the Blue
  • Arbonne Lipstick in Scarlet
  • gloMinerals Liquid Lips in Beloved
  • Ecoya Natural Soy Travel Candle in Wild Frangipani
 One lucky winner will receive ALL of these goodies, valued at approximately $690 RRP



This Giveaway is open to Australian residents only (Sorry International followers,  :(  I am still trying to learn the ropes, but I promise to look into any restrictions/guidelines for the possibility of holding a worldwide promotion next time).  The Giveaway will remain open until 12pm Midday on Friday, December 23rd (Local Qld EST – Eastern Standard Time). 



Here’s what you need to do to win!  (*)

*    For 1 point - Requied
·        Follow my blog through Google Friend Connect (existing followers skip this step) and then as a follower, you can comment below, telling me the one beauty product you wish was under your Christmas tree this year, with your name on it.  
·        (1 point = 1 entry per person)

Maximise your chances of winning by completing these optional tasks for additional entry points!

*     Additional Points - Optional
·        Once you’ve completed the initial required task, you can gain a further 2 points just by following me on Twitter (@melmeko). 
·        There is yet another 2 points up for grabs, if you tweet the following – I just entered @melmeko's Festive Giveaway to #WIN over $650 worth of beauty booty, click the link urlm.in/kiww so you can enter too 
·       (Max 4 points = 4 extra entries per person, 2 for following, 2 for tweeting

To guarantee you get ALL of your entry points: When posting your comment, please provide your GFC name and let me know if you fulfilled any of the optional tasks.  If so, you will need to include your Twitter name, along with a link to your tweet!  

If you complete ALL three tasks (one required and two optional), you will score a total of 5 points, which will give you 5 entries into the Festive Giveaway!  Once you have reached the maximum number of points, 5 per person, you will not be entitled to any further entries for multiple comments or tweets.



One winner will be chosen via RANDOM.ORG – True Number Generator shortly after the Giveaway closure.  The selected winner will then be announced here on this blog, in due succession.  



Tip:  It’s entirely up to you, but it might be handy to leave your email address, along with your comments, so I can get in touch if your the winner, in case you don’t manage to catch the blog announcement in time.  It would be shattering to discovered that you had missed out on claiming your prize, because you had no idea you had even won, EEK!!!  :-S  Otherwise, it’s understandable if you are concerned with privacy issues, therefore if you would rather not disclose any personal contact information now, be sure to keep an eye on this blog, following the 23rd of December as the consecutive post will reveal the Festive Giveaway winner.


Well, that’s all folks.  Good luck to each and every one of you!  %%-   Just in case we don’t get time to chat again beforehand, I will take a moment to say; I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!   :)>-

 

Whoop, whoop, yeah boii, bring it on – 2012 here we come!!!   \:D/





All images in this post are my own.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

L’Oreal Professionnel Mythic Oil - Review


Outer Packaging
I recently received the Mythic Oil to trial from L’Oreal Professionnel and have given it a good work out over the past four weeks, so I decided it might be worthwhile sharing my appraisal.  ;)  This low-down will hopefully be useful for my fellow fine-haired beauties, who no doubt, would relate to the dilemma of finding suitable hair care products that don’t weigh down those ultra thin tresses, which tend to stick to your head (Eww, not a good look  L-)  ).  It can also get all greasy from the build-up, spurring the volume to deplete; therefore, your hair just looks flat and awfully lank. :-/

Not only is my hair baby fine, the frustrating thing is it’s also fairly oily (Arrrghhh, Yep blessed with oily skin and oily hair too, nooo why me!!  ~X(  ).  Anyway, after spending a lifetime of dying my mop in accordance with every shade under the rainbow, from platinum blonde, to red, to blue black and various colours in between, as a result the ends are bit frazzled and parched.  Meanwhile, the roots and upper lengths need to be ‘handled with care’, as this area gets oily, particularly if I have used unsuitable hair care products.  :-/   My dead straight, fine, oily/dry combination hair is currently a couple of inches longer than my shoulders, which after washing, if left to dry naturally, with no styling products, ends up looking like I just stuck my finger in a power socket,  EEK!  :-O  Yes, static flyaway hair is very common for those of us with fine, straight hair, which is why serums, oils and leave-in treatments are ideal…..IF they are not to heavy and rich!  :-S  Luckily, it’s usually pretty easy to determine when a product is all wrong, as makes my hair all limp, lifeless and greasy within just a few hours of application, these products need to be avoided like the plague, LOL!  [-X

Inner Bottle
I was a big fan of Moroccanoil Original Oil Treatment when it first became popular, even though one upon a time if anyone had suggested putting oil in my oily hair I would have looked at them like they had sworn or cursed at me  /:)  Needless to say, I have since learned that in most cases oil actually combats oil, so as long as it’s not too heavy or rich then it won’t exasperate the oiliness. #:-S  Initially I loved everything about the Moroccanoil, (well maybe everything other than the hefty price tag) but after using it for a period of time, I found that teamed with my regular hair care products, it was a bit much and would wind up getting weighed down and contributing to excess build-up, so my mane resembled an oil slick. :(  Disappointed, I ended up swapping the bottle and decided that the Moroccanoil Light Oil Treatment might be more suitable, however because it’s so exy, I still have not gotten around to trying it as of yet. :-"

Then, along comes the Mythic Oil by L’Oreal Professionnel, basically the same idea, for a fraction of the price (Only $38 for 125ml compared to $55 for 100ml of Moroccanoil).  Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t say it’s a dupe or anything, as they are based on different ingredients, yet, both products are similar in the idea that they are treatment oils, which promote healthy, smooth, shiny, luscious locks.  ;)  Having put the Mythic Oil to the ultimate test, I have come to the conclusion that it’s not only better value, price wise, it’s also ideal for those of us who have fine and/or oily hair types, especially if you find similar treatments unsatisfactory.  While kinder to the wallet, it’s by no means a poor relation, as it doesn’t compromise on quality or performance and lives up to its claims.  =D>  Read on to find out more….

Pump-Style Distributor
What is Mythic Oil exactly?

Well, the L’Oreal Professionnel website claims:

Precious Ingredients

 

A blend of avocado and grape seed oil to nourish, protect and add shine to all hair types

 

Spectacular Results for daily use

 

Legendary shine
Deep nourishment
Increased suppleness
Easier blow-dry
Long-lasting anti-frizz protection

First Impressions:

Upon inspection of the classy, deluxe packaging, I must admit, the Mythic Oil, presented in a sleek, white box embossed with gold designs and black print, looked extremely opulent and more expensive than it actually is.  The inner pump-style bottle is just as fancy, while at the same time, practical, made of transparent gold/amber coloured plastic, rather than glass to avoid breakage/wastage.  The oil itself is clear, refined and utterly lightweight, with a very slippery, runny consistency and a silky texture that is velvety to touch, reminding me of how a silicone-based primer feels against my skin.  To begin with, I though the scent was not particularly appealing, with a sweet, floral aroma,  @};-  something that I would normally associate with headaches, as I find it’s quite artificial-like and overbearing up front.  I was pleasantly surprised though, because somehow after a minute or two, the intensity of the fragrance literally tones-right down and magically transforms into a scent that is entirely delicate, subtle and really, really, yummy.  ;;)  It’s so good in fact and mild enough that I am more than happy to sniff away at it all day, having confidence that the delightful perfume won’t assault my senses or trigger a negative reaction.   B-)


Serum lightweight and runny
Serum silky and clear in colour












The Experience:

Finished look - Flash
The Mythic Oil is perfect for either wet or dry hair and I have effectively used it both ways with impressive results.  I only need one small pump of oil, which I warm up in my hands before distributing through the lower strands of my hair.  I always avoid the scalp and already oily roots, so by focusing only on the ends, the nourishing goodness is working where it’s needed most.  I apply it to towel-dried hair, either as a protective treatment prior to heat styling or, otherwise I just let it dry naturally.  Regardless of how I choose to style my hair, the outcome is still remarkable, even after one use.

\:D/
Finished look - No Flash
My dry, thirsty ends seem to drink this oil up like nobodies business, as it completely disappears, with no greasy residue and due to the weightless formula, once it’s absorbed I can’t feel it at all.  Upon drying, my tresses are super soft and the instant luminous shine-enhancing effect is clearly evident.  Not only that, there is no hint of the usual frizzy, flyaways, instead I am sporting a smooth, sleek mane and those previously ‘straw-like’ ends seem healthier, well nurtured and adequately conditioned.  :)  When I don’t have time to wash, I apply the oil straight on my dry locks and it works a charm for greater styling support and manageability.  By encouraging a positive development to my thin, weak stands, along with some additional oomph that naturally plumps my hair, it’s left noticeably smoother and softer with better texture, flexibility and an overall burst of shine.  (*)

Final Thoughts:

Sleek pony - No Flash
Sleek pony - Flash
Since I begun using this product, the physical health and fitness of my hair has improved tenfold.   It has already revived the previously damaged ends; therefore, the strands are now silky soft to touch and ultra smooth and glossy from root to tip.  It has tamed the static flyaways, whilst nourishing the dryness and restoring life to my tired, neglected locks to pave the way for naturally healthy, beautiful-looking hair.  After this test drive, I can honestly say, the Mythic Oil has well and truly earned a permanent home in my regular hair care routine.  This is the oily/fine hair care solution I have been searching for, it’s the perfect all-in-one, multi-tasking miracle worker that not only combats ‘bad hair days’, it also delivers that ‘just stepped out of the salon’ look, all from the comfort of my own home.  Fine-haired beauties, it’s time to rejoice,  <:-P  the Mythic Oil  by L’Oreal Professionnel will change the way you care for your mop, eliminating ‘nightmare hair’ once and for all :)  It gets top marks from me, it’s a sure-fire winner!!! 

Have you tried one of the ever popular hair treatment oils?  If so, share your thoughts. Did it meet your expectations or are you still hunting for something better?  :-?  If not, is there any that take your fancy and are possibly styling up on your wishlist as we speak?  Do tell! :D



All images in this post are my own.
The yellow text is a description taken from the L'Oreal Professionnel website linked above.

Friday, December 2, 2011

Give the Gift of Beauty and Score a Fab Freebie


I always purchase my beauty booty through my fellow Queensland comrades at the Facial Company.  Ever since I first discovered the Facial Company’s online store back in 2009, when I placed my first order, I have become a loyal patron, practically earning prominence as one of the family, hehe!   ;))  Seriously though, you are made to feel important and valued when you shop with them. :)  The exceptionally high quality of customer service is what sets the Facial Company apart from other online stores, as the courteous staff (who, btw are on our wave length) are dedicated to providing a personalised shopping experience like no other.  Over the years, thanks to the helpful advice from Darren and his friendly, professional sales team, I have managed to tweak my skin care routine perfectly and it suits me to a tee.  ;;)



I just adore the generous samples that I receive with each and every order, personally hand selected to compliment my skin type, always tantalising my temptations with something new and different that I wouldn’t have thought to try otherwise.  Oh, and one can’t forget the candy, om, nom, nom,  the indulging sweet treat is always willingly anticipated.  (shhh  :-$  tsk tsk  [-X  )  But, honestly what has really stands out, is that some how, some way, the Facial Company always manages to get my orders to me the very next day, in less than 24 hours and I live in a rural location, meaning mail normally arrives later rather than sooner, EEK!.  :-O  So, these guys really must work their magic with the postal fairies to get my orders to me faster than ever. (*)


Are you running out of time and don’t know what to get your loved one this Christmas?  :-?  Gift buying is never easy, but the Facial Company have made it easy via a dedicated Christmas 2011 tab featuring sections of gifts under $25, under $50, under $100, over $100 as well as a handy page that features gifts for him!  It’s the season to be giving and the Facial Company have lots of great bargain buys, stocking fillers and even something special for the men in your life.  I have been trawling through these pages of beauty must-haves and pampering treats, ordering up appropriate Christmas goodies that will please everyone I care about. This gift idea section is extremely useful and allows me to select the best pressies that suit my budget.  From affordable tokens to deluxe pleasures, there is sure to be something for everyone!  =D>

This holiday season, the Facial Company is treating customers like you and me to a bit more excitation by captivating and sparking our interest during the lead up to Christmas.  With their Advant Calander Gift Giveaway, running right up until the 23rd December, the first 50 online orders daily, of $50 or more, will receive a surprise mystery gift, which changes each day in accordance with the Advent Calendar.  These freebies are ‘smicky doo’, even if I do say so myself, ranging from full sized products, deluxe travel sizes and generous sample packs.  Woo Hoo, I am excited and can’t wait to see what I score!   \:D/ Every day unveils a new mystery gift! Who knows what the next day will bring?  I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE  :x  surprises!  This is going to be heaps of fun. <:-P

If your planning to spread the festive cheer with the perfect present for everyone on your holiday shopping list and are stuck for gift ideas, then follow me and head to the Facial Company for inspiration and give the special gift of beauty this Christmas.  *-:)  This is going to sound cliché, but oh, so true, the Facial Company has Christmas all wrapped up!  :D  


All images in this post are generic.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Recipe - De-Stress for Less


This was my entry into the recent Beauty Heaven Blogstar competition.  It didn’t win me any awards, :-<  LOL!  :))  But, I did enjoy re-living my relaxing experience as I was working on this post and also the topic is completely different to any of my previous blogs, so all in all I had fun stepping out of my comfort zone and running around naked....(well, not quite, hehe! ;)) but you know what I mean ;)  )

As a WAHM rearing two hardheads (rug rats/toddlers), days off are scarce and ‘me’ time is a rare amenity. Last weekend, the youngsters stayed overnight at their grandparents, leaving me home alone with a hunger for some long-awaited pampering. I cooked myself the ‘order of the day’, to tantalise my senses, before serving up a welcoming slice of repose!

Ingredients:

Scented Candle
Epsom Salts/Baking Soda
Aromatherapy Oils
Body Wash/Scrub
Shampoo/Conditioner/Treatment Mask
Cleanser/Cleansing Devise
Facial Mask
Body Moisturiser
Foot Lotion
Cotton Socks
Hand Cream
Lip Balm

Method:

1. In the bathroom, create sensual aroma and atmosphere with a calming Scented Candle, transitioning you from tense to tranquil and evoking a serene, peaceful ambiance. 
I used:  Ecoya Soy Wax Candle Everyday Tin in French Pear.

2. Run a luxury-healing bath, infused with Epsom Salts and Baking Soda to flush toxins and relieve tired, overworked muscles. Assist the detox by adding Aromatherapy Oils. Soak your cares away, stimulating circulation, easing tension and reducing stress for improved well-being. 


3. Bathe your body using an ambrosial Body Wash.  

Slough away dead skin cells and restore the smooth factor with a deep cleansing, exfoliating Body Scrub. 

A Pumice Stone softens rough areas on your heels and toes.


4. Use a luscious Shampoo and Conditioner to achieve smooth, soft locks, which smell fabulous.  

Boost your tresses with a Treatment Mask, promoting moisture, strength and flexibility.  


5. Cleanse your face to purify the skin and target individual concerns.

Implement a complimentary Cleansing Device that enhances your cleanser, prompting a thorough, deep–pore clean and optimal skin health.  


6. Apply an embellishing Facial Mask to balance, comfort and repair skin, whilst eliminating impurities. Kick back, chill out and drift away restfully, as it performs its magic. 


7. After the indulgent bath, massage a rich, replenishing Body Moisturiser into damp skin, encouraging better absorption, keeping moisture locked in.  

Treat your feet and soothe your soles with a mint-enriched Foot Lotion that refreshes skin and increases circulation. 

Slipping on Cotton Socks encourages fancy feet, plus keeps them sweet. 


8. Complete your regular facial care regime, before nurturing your hands with a succulent, remedial Hand Cream. 

Finally, extend the TLC to your kissers, with a slick of nourishing Lip Balm.  
                 I used:  Dermalogica Age Smart Renewal Lip Complex

     

Serves - 1
Calories - 0

Ahh, that rest stop left me rejuvenated and blissfully at ease. If life becomes hectic or you’re flirting with stress, remember to call time-out before you burnout. Do you have a special remedy for respite?


All images in this post are generic.