While you can still channel the inner kid in you and get your chocolate advent calendar, you should also treat yourself to a different kind of advent for those 24 days prior to Christmas.

Hello everyone, today I am here writing to you on my iPad! I had been thinking about getting one for a while now and decided to 'just do it' about a week ago. It's just the regular iPad mini but after using it I wish I had got the iPad 2 mini. Mainly because I have an iPhone 6 and it's brilliant and the the regular iPad is a step back in greatness (and speed). Nonetheless, I am loving it and am very happy with my purchase.

So in a previous post I had mentioned wanting to being more active on my blog and this post will mark three in the month of January - woohoo! I don't want to commit to a certain number of posts a month, I just want to try my best in being active. I'm thinking of doing smaller posts such as 'What I Eat in a Day' (with pictures of course) and perhaps a couple of other day to day activities or thoughts where I can fill in the gaps in between the 'bigger' posts.

Alright, let me get back on track.
In 2013, I started watching Zoella on YouTube and when it came round to her Christmas vlogs - Vlogmas - I absoloutely loved watching her open her different advent calendars. The two I was most interested in were the Benefit calendar and The Body Shop calendar and I could not find either of these two in stores at all. I soon let it go and lived my excitement through Zoella's vlogs.
When I was in Melbourne CBD at the end of November I decided to browse through the Benefit counter in the Myer store (fun fact: Myer Melbourne CBD has the biggest Benefit counter in the world). I came across the Benefit advent calendar!!! Excited was an understatement - though I had to think about it after I knew the price of it: $149.00 AUD. I had to quickly justify the purchase - I wanted one...? And I had never bought or even tried any of the Benefit products before, so I got it! I had to wait four days until I could open it (I guess I can open it whenever I want but let's be traditional here!)

Here's what I got...
*All pictures are from my Instagram taken on an iPhone 6.










Overall, I'm fairly happy with the products that I got. Though I really couldn't believe that they would put three hair ties and three stationary items in here as well. Maybe around three would have been more acceptable. If you're all about value then I wouldn't get this however, if you have never tried any Benefit products (or very little) and you want to then I would definitely consider getting this in the future. It has a really good range of products in here that I love using. I won't be purchasing this in the future as I obviously don't need to - and I'm keeping my eye out for The Body Shop Advent Calendar for December this year!

My favourites are: The Porefessional, Watt's Up Highlighter, Stay Don't Stray Eye Primer, High Beam Highlighter and the Stay Flawless 15 Hour Primer. I haven't opened up either of the mascaras as I want to finish my current ones, but I am really looking forward to the They're Real Mascara as I've many great things about this one.
I also haven't used all the products yet, but definitely will as time goes on.

Hopefully this has helped you if you've been tossing up whether or not to get this advent calendar.
See you next time!

xx


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Recently I have picked up a whole bunch of new things: clothes, accessories, home wares and beauty products. I knew I wanted to treat myself but I also had a list. As predicted, I did not get everything on that list, but I'm working towards it.
Today I give you a haul. The first few things I haven't put together by store (oops).
*All prices are in Australian Dollars (AUD).



1. Gym Wear (Cotton On Body, Target)
The sports bra brought me into the store. It had a zip on it and I honestly just thought it looked cool. I realised I actually needed a new one - instantly justified! They had these in different colours, I picked it up in black for $19.95.
The sports shorts - or 'jogger' - is also from Cotton On Body. I already have two pairs in different colours and wanted another as I prefer them over leggings at the moment. I picked this one up on sale for $10.
The sports shirt, from Target, is a loose fitting top made from polyester and helps keep you dry while you sweat. I got this for $12.


2. Floppy Hat (Target)
In the back of my mind I have always wanted a black floppy sun hat but haven't really sought one out. While I was out shopping with my family, I came across this one for only $10 and it is exactly the one I always thought of (perhaps a little big though). When you wear it, it does do the whole floppy thing, which makes you look perfectly relaxed.


3. Chokers and Necklaces (eBay)
As you all may know, the 90's tattoo chokers are back in, I honestly remember wearing the whole set back in the day. I knew a lot of places were selling them, but just decided to hop onto eBay and I got the neck choker and bracelet set for $1.99.
I also wanted a necklace to wear with it and found a seller that had a whole range of different pendants on rubbery chains for $1 each. I would have preferred them to be a shorter chain, but I still like wearing them.
To purchase, log on to eBay and search 'Choker'.


4. Early Harvest Raspberry Body Lotion (The Body Shop)
This is one of the limited edition scents, along with a peach scent, so it was sitting out the front of the store. I always like to have a little look at their new scents and both of these were so divine-smelling that I was thinking for a good ten minutes wondering if I should treat myself. When I asked my mum what she thought, she said "Go on, treat yourself"; from the wise words of my mother, I bought the body lotion. I was thinking of getting the scrub, but then knew I wanted the smell to linger longer as it was super delicious. The body butter would probably have a longer lasting smell but I much prefer the lotions to the butters. I picked this up in store for $16.95.


5. Breakfast Scrub - Soap & Glory (Mecca Maxima)
This is probably one of my favourite things in this haul. I originally went into this store to look at makeup and then found they stocked Soap & Glory products which I've heard good things about it. I found myself drawn to the body scrubs as I had been wanting a new one and one of the staff members there recommended this one and I had a little read and smell and was sold. It literally smells 'breakfasty' in a sweet and delicious way. It has banana, almond and honey extracts in it but smells like maple syrup - which is one of my favourite things ever! This 300ml tub sells for $16.




6. Macaroon Nightie (Cotton On Body)
I don't need new pyjamas but couldn't resist when I saw this. It has six different macaroons pictured with their flavours written underneath them in both English and French and says on the top 'what flavour are you?' and then in French underneath it. Cute! This was on special for $10, and I couldn't find it on the website but could possibly still be in stores.



7. Swisse Rose Hip Oil Face Moisturiser (Priceline)
My skin is in the 'normal' category. Even though it gets a bit oily at times, if I use combination moisturiser my skin is too dry. It contains rose hip oil and they also have another one with argan oil in it - which I might try in the future. I picked up this up from Priceline for around $8 I think and I've already used it and so far finding it working really well with my skin.



8. Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 HR Foundation (Priceline)
I get emails from Rimmel so that was how I found out about there new foundation. I was looking for a new one as I'm not 100% loving the L'oreal True Match at the moment and had just finished my Bourjois (which is good, but wanted to try something new). The reason that made me go and get it was a little review from Gabriella Lindley (YouTube here). It's a full coverage foundation with SPF 20 and I got it in the shade 103 True Ivory, which is a little lighter that I usually go for but looked fine with against my skin. I got it on special for only $12 from Priceline and usually retails for around $18.


9. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara (Coles Supermarket)
I saw this mascara in Coles (supermarket) for only $7, so naturally I had to get it. I know my current mascara is running low so I decided it's justifiable. This is one of Maybelline's older products and one of the best! I love the green and pink packaging too. You can get this mascara in any store that sells make up - it will always be there!



10. Kikki K Goals Journal & Daily Note Pad (Kikki K)
I recently decided to attend a Kikki K Goals workshop. They have four different ones: Goals, Happiness, Organisation and DIY for $40 and I'm not sure with the others but with the Goals workshop we got to take home this Goals journal also worth $39.95 for free! I won't get into workshops but you can read about them here. During the workshop they go through the journal with you which really helps you understand it. The first part explains a 'SMART' goal and talks about core values. It gets to you to fill out bits and pieces to help you understand the importance of setting goals and how to follow them properly. The majority of the journal is tabbed by months. Each month includes four goals that ask you specific and motivating questions, your three top core values, a monthly planner and a page for notes. If you are struggling with your goals and keeping motivated I strongly recommend attending a workshop where you receive this journal for free. It's also quite fun to do!
I also picked up this daily note pad that has different sections for your day. It has: today's date, today's weather, to do list, top 3 priorities, my treat, don't forget, water intake and for tomorrow. Not only is it super cute, it's great for when you have a bunch of things you need and want to do and want to keep track of everything. I got this for $7.95 in store.



11. Lush Bubbleroon & Dry Shampoo (Lush)
This one is pretty straightforward. I don't buy from Lush all the time as I like to purchase it as a treat. The last bubble bar I purchased was the Yuzu and Cocoa bubbleroon so this time I got the Rose Jam
 bubbleroon. You can get a few baths out of these and they always smell so delicious. Where I live it's getting quite hot so whenever there is a colder night I make sure I have a bath. This one is $6.50 and always on sale.
I also purchased their Dry Shampoo which comes in a powder. I have already tried this out and it smells like lemon (yum!) and really leave white marks in your hair and if it does, you can easily brush it out. This was $13.50.
Also pictured is a sample of Rehab shampoo that the staff member let me have as I didn't want to commit to buying a bottle incase it did nothing for my hair.



12. Loose Patterned Pants (JayJays)
These pants are super comfy and flowy and a must! I've been wearing them when it's a bit hotter and still feel comfortable. Because they are patterned I wear them with a plain coloured shirt or a shirt that has a very simple picture on it. These pants are usually $29.95 but they have plenty of half price sales so I got these for $15.



13. Cushions (Target)
I have lived in my apartment for a few months now and had only one tiny cushion that came in a bed sheet pack, so I thought it was about time I purchased at least a couple. The first one I picked up is black and white and has 'Queen of the Couch' written on it with a crown and felt it was appropriate ($15). The second one is a dark purple cushion with ripples all down one side which feels super nice  as well ($10 sale).



14. Cropped Button Up Dotty Collared Shirt (Target)
This was in a sale section for $7!! I have already worn this shirt for work twice now and love it. I like that it's cropped so I don't have to tuck it in my skirt and it looks fine. I wear a black singlet underneath it as it is a sheer fabric.



15. Bread Knife (House)
I know this is really random and I wasn't going to include it, but then I used it and had to! There are different types of knives and colours to choose from, I chose a serrated knife in purple as you can use it for pretty much anything. They come with a cover as well (thank you) and work really well. Go get one for $12.99!



So this brings my shopping haul to an end. I hope you enjoyed it and if you have any questions about any of these products comment down below (you don't have to be a member to comment).
Also let me know what else you'd like to see me post. I am going to work out a plan for my blog so I can post more regularly, even if they aren't picture-filled posts!

Take care everyone!

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So... My last 'Favourites' was on my old blog and that was a while ago. I don't do a monthly favourites because I would need to spend a lot more money to make those posts worthwhile. However, over the past couple of months there have been a lot of new and different things that I've been loving.
Also, I like to include a whole bunch of favourites in this post and not just a particular theme. I hope you enjoy!


1. Kindle Paperwhite e-reader
I should have got one of these a long time ago, I love it. I never wanted one in the past, as I thought "No, I like books, real books". It wasn't until late last year when my older sister got one for Christmas and raved about it; that was when I saw the light. I asked for one for my birthday and immediately downloaded books onto it and got reading. The page looks like it has been torn from a book and stuck on a tablet, so you still have that 'real book' feeling. You can also adjust the lighting to suit you depending on where you are. You also have plenty of books all in one place; you might be a quick reader on holiday, or read different books depending on your mood. These Kindle's usually range between $150 - $180, and you should definitely pick up a case!


2. Marshmellow Eggs
I know Easter is well over, but chocolate never will be. I am obsessed with marshmallow chocolate, and it's really hard to find some decent ones around the stores - even during Easter time, which surprised me. My mum was just browsing Sam's Warehouse a week after Easter and found these Strawberry flavoured marshmallow eggs - delicious! I am on the hunt for more marshmallow chocolate (other than those snow drop things), so keep an eye out for me! These were about $1.50, but are an Easter item (I bought the rest on the shelf!)


3. Mimco Secret Couch Bag
This was actually my first Mimco item - which is kind of a big then as they are quite expensive. I am part of the Mimco loyalty club and received a $50 voucher as it was their 18th birthday, not long later I received another $30 voucher for my birthday, there I have $80! I went into one of their stores and picked up this super cute hip bag in the colour apricot (they have more colours). They usually sell for $199, but this one was on special for $120, and with an $80 voucher it was a complete bargain. Its genuine leather and feels lovely. It has two main zipped sections, with a more open but slightly sealed middle. It is quite small, so you'll have to ditch your wallet for a small purse with your essentials, but it's a perfect bag when you don't need or want to take all the usual items. You can purchase this item here.


4. Nerada Organic Tea
Specifically, Green Tea with Lemon Myrtle and Rooibos with Vanilla. I've been drinking this brand for quite a while but only recently became obsessed with these two flavours. The lemon one ain't no ordinary lemon green tea, I think it's the 'lemon myrtle' that makes it taste different and better! I find this tea to be refreshing and can drink it any time of the day.
The Rooibos and Vanilla is a lot more recent, I had only tasted rooibos for the first time a couple of months ago on a little lunch date with a friend. It's a black tea... and well, that's as far as I can explain it (I'm terrible), I saw this one whilst browsing for some tea and decided to give it a go. It helped that it was by a familiar brand and that it also had vanilla in it - yum! I usually like to drink it with some almond milk, but if I have no milk I don't mind drinking it on its own. I find this tea to be very calming and usually like to drink it in the night time, although sometimes I find myself drinking it any time of the day - especially when it's cold weather.


5. Mac - Pro Longwear Concealer
My first Mac product!!!!! How exciting! This was very spontaneous. It was raining and the nearest cover was Myer, so I went inside and passed the Mac stand and decided to have a look. I've heard many things from their concealers and was intrigued when they were right in front of me. I had someone find my right shade and try it on me. Then I bought it. This literally took less than five minutes. This concealer is in a little bottle with a pump - which I don't really like because I want to use less than it gives me. I don't wear too much foundation and this one suited me more than the concealers in the little pots (apparently). I got this because I'm really conscious about the darkness under my eyes and this helps cover it a lot, which makes me happy.


6. Maybelline - Colossal Volume Express Mascara
I don't have a 'one true love' mascara, not yet anyway. While I wear mascara almost every day, I don't wear a lot of it. The past two mascaras I had been using had weird brushes and got way too much product out and would make my eyelashes uneven and just look plain silly. I didn't purchase another mascara because I had only just started using these ones, but when I saw this mascara on sale for $9 (!!!) I decided to purchase it. The wand is nice and little (and not weirdly shaped), brings out the right amount of mascara for me and goes on nicely. I was incredibly excited when trying this as it was exactly what I wanted. I am still keen to try other mascaras but would definitely re-purchase this in the future if I don't find another competent one. If you like simple yet nice looking eyelashes without over doing it, definitely give this a go. It usually retails between $19 - $20, but if you look around you can usually snag a better deal.


7. Knits
I never used to be into knits whatsoever. I decided this autumn and winter I wanted to try out some different styles that I don't usually wear. The first one I purchased was actually a Batman one (yay!), and while the last size they had left was a large, I went with it. Not only did I love the design, I loved the way it felt and that was when I decided I liked knits. They are super comfy and honestly go with almost anything. Since then, I have purchased about three more but they are much more simple and fitted. The ones I have purchased have just been at Ally, Chicabooti, Target and Valleygirl, and have ranged between $15 - $40.

8. Rimmel Kate Moss Matte Lipsticks
I am yet to take the plunge and purchase a high end lipstick as I haven't decided what colour I would get, and also because I need to be saving money at the moment. A little while ago, I purchased these at Priceline as they had a 2-for-1 on Rimmel lipsticks at the time. I went with the colours 103 (pink) and 107 (deep red). Although they don't last too long, they are easy to apply and highly pigmented. Coming into winter, 107 is the perfect shade, but I love 103 as a general day to day lipstick as it's easy to apply and reapply. They retail for about $12.95 each and you can buy this item here.

9. Pump Up (App)
I am a bit weird with exercise and go through phases of what I like. In the last two months it has been running, then pilates (blogilates). While I'll definitely still love Blogilates, I have recently been loving the new Pump Up application, which I use on my iPhone. Once you sign up you can easily build a workout that caters to your level of fitness, location and what equipment you have or don't have. Your first option is to choose either Lose Weight, Get Toned, Build Muscle or Be Healthy; you can also focus on target areas. It records your time, calories burned (not sure how accurate it is) and targets reached. There is so much more I could tell you about this app, go check it out, especially if you're struggling with exercise and staying motivated. It's free and definitely available on the iPhone, I think it's available on android (not 100% certain) and Google Play.

10. Circa Home Vanilla Bean & Allspice Candle
While I really like scented candles, I don't go out and spend a whole bunch because I can't justify it when I need to be saving money. I was lucky enough to win this candle through 'Lean Cuisine' (random, I know). It came in incredibly nice packaging, has a cute wooden lid and has two wicks. Now, the smell... It is absolutely delicious. For those who don't like vanilla, or get sick of it after two minutes, I honestly think you would actually like this. The allspice mixed in makes it the perfect scent that you won't get sick of. I really like vanilla, but I like this waaaaaay better than vanilla on its own. The 250g candle retails for $29.95 and you can purchase this one or other scents from here.


So that is it for my current favourites, I hope you enjoyed this post. If you have any extra questions on these items comment down below, or just let me know what you've been loving lately.
Until next time, take care!

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