tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10904749627388706852024-03-28T00:32:44.030-07:00DancingWithDisasterDrea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.comBlogger124125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-55070561324734028312024-02-06T15:35:00.000-08:002024-02-07T12:33:09.353-08:00Welcome to the End of InfinityThere is a theory in quantum mechanics... its that when a conscious observer, observes sub atomic particles the laws of Newtonian physics no longer apply, they break down and cease to exist. Quantum particles appear to change their behaviour when they're being observed, which poses the immense question, do they have consciousness?<br />
<br />
Its funny the things that draw you to write. Grief. Grief for the loss of something truly incredible. And I hear you ask, 'Okay Drea, but what the hell do sub atomic particles have to do with grief?!'.<br />
<br />
The simple answer is, consciousness. I remember reading a quote from Neil deGrasse Tyson once, the interviewer asked him what we knew for certain about consciousness. His answer was quite simply... nothing. 'Look at all the books about Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Mechanics etc... there are countless definitive books on every subject. Now show me one definitive book on consciousness, you can't, therefore, we know nothing'.<br />
<br />
If there is defining characteristic of consciousness it is that any being changes their behaviour when being observed. Who we are, who we portray ourselves to be, for the most part is entirely dependant on the present observer. Take CERN for example... all those particles and photons being shot at infinite speeds around the Large Hadron Collider... changing their behaviour when observed by a conscious entity (us) and I wonder, do they have the capacity within their consciousness to experience loss and as a result, grief? By another theory it states that not only can they change their behaviour, but they can also choose to blink in and out of existence. It's their superpower.<br />
<br />
Me telling you this doesn't really have anything to do with loss, its just that part of being an existentialist where you try and capture the sadness you feel, to compress it in a way that doesn't make you want to self implode. I've never really experienced loss on any grand scale. I'm incredibly lucky in that respect. I have always chosen to live in the present, to love in the present, to never think too far ahead, lest it distract me from the magical moments I might otherwise miss daily. I have always found joy and comfort in the little things. The things one might take for granted. If something bad happens, I think well at least a, b, and c is still whatever'. There is always a silver lining, always. There just has to be. I refused to live in a world where silver linings weren't a thing of beauty and I always ensured I helped others to find their Silver Linings too. I was good at it. It was my superpower.<br />
<br />
People come and go, some make a brief appearances others settle into your life like a weird piece of furniture that was always there. I read once that the person you think of as you, exists only for you. Every person you meet, have a relationship with, friendship with, interact with or meet on the street creates a version of you in their heads. There are infinite you's out there. A you exists in everyone you've ever mets mind and yet your you, who you believe yourself to be, it may not be someone to anyone at all.<br />
<br />
Sometimes you meet someone you think will always stay, that they will always be there. But life doesn't work that way. I was always more myself with you than with any other. I once shared the belief that some infinities are bigger than others, but what I failed to realise, is that even infinities have an end. Ours cannot be quantified or codified, it will blink in and out of existence as we observe it change under our observation. So maybe, in the end, in that respect our consciousness and the consciousness of atoms and sub atomic particles aren't so different.<br />
<br />
We are all infinitely floating, trying to remain present to an observer of our choosing, before finally, blinking out of existence...Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-6632154008862677972023-11-19T18:23:00.000-08:002023-11-23T18:17:41.550-08:00Uncharted<p>You know,</p><p>I am sure that there was a time before you...</p><p>That, there was a Me before You.</p><p>Seemingly disjointed now,</p><p>It is, without logical or meaningful connection.</p><p>I've become lost when retracing my steps, </p><p>trying to find the precise moment you made yourself at home in a world few are invited to see.</p><p>Our shared universe took it's time when crafting us,</p><p>Ensuring its tailor made simplicity was the perfect fit.</p><p>It left no room for doubt or jealously.</p><p>Instead, what it offered was safe harbour.</p><p>Where the purpose of our hearts appear, by their very investiture to be... broken.</p><p>Our Souls by comparison are no delicate thing. </p><p>They alter by which our alteration finds that</p><p>Our Souls do not break, they bend. </p><p>Through this discovery I have come to believe that hearts,</p><p>May be seemingly inconsequential by comparison.</p><p>We contain multitudes. </p><p>Our beginning was beautiful. </p><p>Our past experiences and collective traumas ensured we mutually handled those broken or fractured parts in only the most delicate fashion. </p><p>It was the perfect foundation, the foundation of Our shared safe harbour. </p><p>I had always imagined my safe harbour to be some illusive place, when in reality the safe harbour I was presented with, was You.</p><p>A Harbour by its very definition, reliably contains a vast body of water. They say that the sea is actually black and that it merely reflects and absorbs the blue sky above.</p><p>And So it was, for me, with you. </p><p>It was and has been the most singular privilege to reflect who you truly are back to you.</p><p>So that you could admire yourself in my eyes. </p><p>Where you are at last... Enough.</p><p>If you are the Ocean which surrounds and envelops our safe harbour, I am the waves, for the moment we part I refract, I involuntarily crash and break before dissipating and returning to the Ocean. </p><p>Before returning to you. </p><p>Our Ocean, for all intents and purposes is two separate entities. The Water and the Waves. </p><p>And, although the waves may crash and break, appearing separate, they are always welcomed back by the Ocean, becoming one... once again. </p><p>Just as infinity intended.</p><p>Our path on the return journey to our Safe Harbour has presented us both with obstacles.</p><p>Navigation has not been plain sailing.</p><p>But lessons learned, revealed the emotion that once broke our individual hearts?</p><p>Was also the emotion You and I collectively invoked to piece each other together again, conscientiously... meticulously.</p><p>I believe in that moment, our souls intertwined... the inexplicable, primordial singularity that created this tiny universe.</p><p>Our shared inhabitation, impervious to anyone but you and I...</p><p>Impervious to anyone but us.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-11757884754958034812023-06-20T17:13:00.000-07:002023-06-21T14:52:27.102-07:00Some Infinities Are Bigger Than Other Infinities... Hey there, it's me again... back to pour out some random musings from the depths of my soul. Nothing to see here, just me trying to make sense of the findings from my latest existential crisis... My recent post about my journey of self discovery focused mostly on my struggle with self image. The overwhelmingly positive response I received to that post was pretty incredible.<br />
<br />
In all honesty writing that post was the catalyst for me beginning to examine different facets of my life and my relationships with others. Truth be told relationships of any description be they romantic, friendship or purely associative have always felt like they've come a little more difficult to me than it seems in comparison to observation of others. Relationships to me are deeply complex and based on the individual involved, I have never had the same type of interpersonal relationship with anyone twice.<br />
<br />
My circle of close friends is practically non existent. And that has always been a conscious choice on my part. I have serious trust issues, and every time I've decided to take a chance and let someone in, it has resulted in heartbreak of some description. So I decided the only way to protect myself was to put a wall up, to become extremely guarded. Don't get me wrong, to the world I remained who I was but I just didn't let anyone in for fear of being hurt. And through all this, mustering every last shred of insatiable positivity I had, I continued to look for the good in people, only seeing the best. I have plenty of acquaintances in my life who I value dearly, but what had been lacking in my life was one of those once in a lifetime type people. The kind you could tell anything to and know for sure it would never go any further... the type that make your life better by just being there and being exactly who they are.<br />
<br />
The expression that kept springing to mind whenever I would feel like I was missing out was 'Aundrea, try to remember quality, not quantity'. For the longest time I told myself that when I least expected it, the universe would introduce someone into my life that would show me that even after all the shitty relationships I could still trust and see the good in people.<br />
<br />
What the universe ended up sending me was something infinitely more valuable. You see, what I have learned is that all these harsh lessons and failed friendships haven't been for nothing. They've made me come to the realisation that each journey you have the courage to embark on can be considered a truth seeking mission on your road to becoming fully self aware. I truly believe that if you are willing to leave behind everything familiar and comforting about yourself and set out on this truth seeking journey, be it internal or external. And you are willing to regard everything that happens to you on this journey as a lesson, it will lead you to people who will change the course of your life forever. If you accept these people for who and what they are, and embrace them as teachers, they will help you to face and forgive some very difficult realities about yourself. If you follow this path, the truth will not be withheld from you.<br />
<br />
The truth is not always agreeable, it is not always what we want to hear but as much as it can damage and ruin, ruin is the road to transformation. The teachers we encounter who value us enough to share their truth with us, can be the ones to help you to open yourself up to learning more about who you are than you ever thought possible.<br />
<br />
Embrace these people wholeheartedly. They don't come along too often. They are the guides and teachers on this beautiful road called life who show us what it means to be who we are. And should you ever be lucky enough to encounter one who makes themselves at home in your life, like they have always been there? Treasure and hold on to them with every fibre of your being, they are the truly unique, the once in a lifetime, the ones you will turn to in times of crisis and times of joy. They are the truly irreplaceable.<br />
<br />
Serendipity is a funny thing... you look for something, find something else and you end up realising that what you've found is more suited to your needs than what you thought you were looking for. This journey has ended up teaching me that my purpose in my relationships is to continue being no one other than exactly who I am and to do my upmost to help try and make my presence in the lives of the individual people I care about something that they can trust in and rely on. I have learned that for the people I truly care about and infinitely value, who I am and what I mean to them? It's enough.<br />
<br />
I know that without context some or even most of this post might not make a massive amount of sense to you. But it's something I needed to write, a sort of thank you letter to the universe for sending me exactly what I needed.<br />
<br />
It is also a thank you to the teachers in my life, the people who have made themselves at home in the infinite chaos of the beautiful disaster that is my stream of consciousness. Thank you for being who you are, for what you mean to me, and please know that you, just you as you are? You're enough and I am infinitely grateful for you.<br />
<br />
To me, each individual relationship in my life is like an infinity. Infinities can take place within a numbered days, others cannot be quantified and a very wise<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ds2bMtJla70" target="_blank"> astrophysicist</a> once informed me that some infinities are bigger than other infinities. Not many people know that, and often when you learn it for the first time, it can be pretty mind blowing. Thats how I feel this journey has been for me. 'Some infinities are bigger than other infinities' and I cannot begin to codify how grateful I am for our little infinity.<br />
<br />
Be kind to one another, be a teacher, and try to appreciate each infinity for what it is and what it has meant or will continue to mean to you.<br />
<br />
Aundrea x<br />
<br />
<br />Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-41641214633671722622023-05-19T20:45:00.000-07:002023-11-07T16:23:39.657-08:00YOU...It happened on a night like any other, uneventful, until You.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You walked in so effortlessly, like you had always belonged. Akin to some piece of beloved furniture that had always been there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You made yourself at home instantly, sharing seemingly inconsequential and understated events that had formed the core of who you are.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Something awoke in me then, because of You.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was prepared for everything, except You.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You had this ability of making me feel seen and understood in a way so foreign I failed to recognise it at first. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You are the best part of every day, the first part of any morning, infinite vast incoherent thoughts imperceptible to anyone but us, spoken aloud to form the secrets that would eventually bind us.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You so intricately wove yourself into the fabric of my small universe. Spinning silk threads forever securing what holds us together.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You handled the damaged parts of my heart, my soul with such care, paying careful attention to return them to their rightful place, slowly... safely.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You took the time to reinforce that once fragile heart so carefully.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You showed me infinities within our numbered days. How to build our own universe impervious to anyone but us. Held together by an unshakable faith.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You were perfect within your perfect imperfection.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You are my greatest teacher, my existential crisis affiliate. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You push me in every direction I need to go... and those I didn't know existed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You have been there, each and every day reinforcing my unwavering belief in absolute, irrevocable and unconditional love.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You have made the journeys when no one else would. And for that, I am infinitely grateful.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You have shown me the fairy tales I once wrapped myself in sometimes do come true. That miracles are ever present and handed to us at the most serendipitous of moments.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You challenge me, You frustrate me, You drive me to the edge of insanity but even then there is no one I would rather be there with... than You.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am forever blind to where I would be... who I would be... without You.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You are the fabric of this tiny universe we will both call home.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It will always be You.</div>
<div><br /></div>
<div>Ending with the realisation that we, are infinite. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-61846199763956950852022-09-02T19:36:00.002-07:002022-09-03T18:22:39.065-07:00Letter to My 20 Year Old Self...Dearest Aundrea,<br />
<br />
Oh my darling one, where to begin? <br />
<br />
You're about to enter what you will come to know as one of the most difficult periods of your entire life. I wish I could protect you from whats to come. I wish I could warn you. I wish... I wish I could take the pain of whats to come, lock it in a box and keep it far, far away from you. But, despite what people might think, you've never been one to run from a fight and I'm afraid this will be the run for your life.<br />
<br />
The person you are now in two short years will cease to exist. She will, I am sorry to say, have been stomped out and erased. Right now, you're living in Dublin, you have a great job, a few good friends, a beautiful apartment and altogether a very good life. That will all change on a night in October when you meet a good friend for a quite drink. You'll meet him then, you'll even invite him to join you. You've always hated seeing anyone being left out. Your kindness my darling will be your downfall.<br />
<br />
Even now, writing this, I'm so far removed from that person, you... I think that even as I tell you whats about to happen, the reason I may sound like I'm talking about something that happened to someone else, is because in many ways, it did. I'm not who I was then. He made very sure there was nothing left of me, but I would like to tell you now, something that would take you 13 years and a lot of heartbreak to figure out. You deserved and deserve so much better.<br />
<br />
I'm staring at the flashing bar waiting for me to type the words to tell you this, this is truly the first time I have sat and thought about what happened. He seemed so sweet, damaged yes... but you could fix that. You have always been a fixer, that will never change. You will always want to take the bad in someone and make it go away, replace it with something better. But it didn't work here. He hurt you so badly. Physically beat you until you were unconscious, many many times. He would lock you away from the world for days on end. I know you're reading this thinking 'not me' but there is one crucial thing I need you to know. You will be pregnant. A beautiful girl. and you will fight, you'll fight for her, to keep her alive, to keep her safe. And you do. You endure it, praying for someone, something to save you, because he has broken you so carelessly that you are too weak to save yourself. In the end, it is seeing that tiny human in person for a very brief moment after an emergency c section induced by sheer panic and fear. You will die on that operating table and I'm so sorry , you'll hear the beeps of the heart monitor get slower and slower until it flatlines. Then the nothingness.<br />
<br />
You wake not knowing whats happened until you are told by your surgeon the next morning. You will make the choice for her. Because she is all that matters now, you will leave him for her. And you will make sure he never sees her again. That I can promise you. And you will never let another man raise his fist in anger at you again. I am so sorry. For all of it.<br />
<br />
I'm sorry for the journey you have to go on over the next 12 years. You need to find out who you are again. You need to forgive yourself. You need to accept that it was never your fault. And yes, it will take you that long to figure it out. It doesn't come easily, you're still working on it. Because ingrained in you so deeply is the notion that it will always be you, your fault, something you should have done different, but... not on this occasion.<br />
<br />
You will meet someone. He's pretty great... he will treat you better than anyone before him, it takes a while to get there but it happens. And you'll know the wonder of being truly comfortable with someone, laughing over the stupid things together, crying over the bad. He has to leave you. It's just time. And you have to let him go. For him to be happy. You'll miss him so much your heart will fracture, he was your best friend, without ever really being your friend, he was your person. I don't think that you will ever stop missing him, or loving him really. I think once you truly love someone you will love them forever. Every time you think of him you'll wish him well.... because throughout everything you've learned nothing is permanent and you'll learn to be grateful for the time you had with the people you love. It's precious. I'm not sure you'll ever fully recover from this loss but it will happen and you won't see it coming. I don't think you can fit an infinity into a letter, and the one you shared with him can't be quantified. So it's best just to know you do love again. Truly. Unconditionally.<br />
<br />
I'm not really sure where we go from here. But I do know that we'll be okay. You're finally going to travel, you are going to see all those places you wished you could have. Some of these trips you'll do alone. I'm hoping we'll meet some great people along the way. Others well... I guess we'll have to wait and see.<br />
<br />
And hey, that little girl you fought so hard for, in more ways than one? She's amazing. Funny, kind, empathetic and sweet. A lot like that young lady you used to be. You're still all of those things but she seems to do it all so much better. You have nothing to worry about on that front, she's perfect. You're an unconventional parent, you'll say fuckhead a lot and make threats about kids who hurt her, most of which are idol. Just kidding. Believe it or not you turn out to be a pretty great parent. She is the Rory to your Lorelai... just like you always wanted.<br />
<br />
I'm Going to give you a list of things I wish I had known in advance, here goes:<br />
<br />
Don't stand in wheelie bins unattended, you will fall out of one absolutely sober and destroy yourself.<br />
<br />
You'll end up with a penis shaped scar from a third degree burn thanks to a friends hair curlers... embrace it, it'll end up being quite the anecdote later in life.<br />
<br />
At that event for YSL don't lean against the window... it's open and you will almost fall out in front of the Head of International Makeup Artistry. Not good.<br />
<br />
As funny as it seems at the time, don't pants your boyfriend in front of his mother, I don't think he ever quite forgave you for it.<br />
<br />
Go the extra mile when moving that stupid Elf... worth it every time. 'How did he end up on the ceiling?!' No idea you'll say while clutching your back after falling off that chair.<br />
<br />
Don't be so hard on yourself okay? There are lots of people who will do that for you. Trust me.<br />
<br />
Don't let betrayal harden you, you'll soon see its better to be you knowing you did all you could than you having to live with what other chose to do to you.<br />
<br />
Enjoy every moment with tots, she's growing up so quickly. She's all that will ever matter.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thats it for now, know that you'll feel like you're dying, you'll be okay, repeat twice and you'll be here. You'll be okay and thats all you'll ever want, to be okay. I used to wish our story was different but any one step in a different direction and you would be someone else, somewhere else. You wouldn't have met the people who helped to shape your world, you wouldn't have Addie. If there were an award for 'Emotional Strongperson of the Decade', it would be yours and thats a hell of an achievement. You're doing okay, you'll get there.<br />
<br />
I love you,<br />
<br />
A x<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-65346828003753760092022-03-24T18:29:00.000-07:002023-05-30T19:56:56.282-07:00Lundi<p><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">On social media they posted taunts at Hurricane Lorenzo,</span></p><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Willing him into a tropical storm.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">His gales though carried your unwritten messages away.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Silence and Seafret,</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">That feeling of relief,</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">A week spent with empty messages drifting aimlessly in darkness.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">The failed midnight meeting along the metal tracks.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">The dimmed station, where I waited in purgatory.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">The neon painted lights of the buildings that surrounded.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">The drunken shouting at the stop.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">The nail polish I chip away at.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">The dreary dawn showed up too quickly that night.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">The rain that fell in a thin mist</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Helped to carry the tears away.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">I left at 12:20 with one thought.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">I had failed to reach you.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Whats left of me, steeps in the tub.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">It needs to soak. 'Leave it', I think.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">You had gone away, I had come home.</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">And what's left of me,</span><br style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">It loosens and the water carries it away.</span>Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-66680371063415742912021-04-21T14:35:00.004-07:002023-09-24T17:22:43.069-07:00The Physics of the Quest<p> </p><h1 class="quoteText" style="caret-color: rgb(24, 24, 24); color: #181818; font-weight: normal; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-size: small;"><i>“I've come to believe that there exists in the universe something I call "The Physics of The Quest" — a force of nature governed by laws as real as the laws of gravity or momentum. And the rule of Quest Physics maybe goes like this: "If you are brave enough to leave behind everything familiar and comforting (which can be anything from your house to your bitter old resentments) and set out on a truth-seeking journey (either externally or internally), and if you are truly willing to regard everything that happens to you on that journey as a clue, and if you accept everyone you meet along the way as a teacher, and if you are prepared – most of all – to face and forgive some very difficult realities about yourself... then truth will not be withheld from you."</i></span></h1><div><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">A decade is a long time, but it can also feel like no time at all. Lessons learned, trust betrayed, hearts broken, promises that have never been kept and relationships which end in an unanswerable great abyss of nothingness.</span></div><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">As time continues to forever move us forward, for the unlucky few, it becomes ever apparent that we are to make our way through our toughest journeys, alone.</span><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">As someone who used to consider herself an eternal optimist (now semi hardened realist) its difficult to admit that at some point, you have to accept people are built to disappoint you. Imaginary letters never sent, foundations built on empty promises, broken trust teetering on oblivion. It is a constant fairground carousel of deceit, disappointment and hurt.</span><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Any major trauma we endure, is always dealt with alone. You put stock in the prettily worded sentences of vague offers of support made with no intention of ever seeing them through. Declarations of love on a road leading nowhere. A Mismatched, misguided heart surrounded by the scar tissue of a million empty words. </span><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">So what does it all mean? The belief in your fairy tale ending? It was in you, deep as poison. Encroaching on your fragile heart, spooling their thorned vines around it, locking those damaging splinters in place, creating primed, minute, fractures ready to be shattered with each tap driven into it with a sledgehammer wielded by those you so naively leant your trust to.</span><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">By now you should be used to it... not everyone has your heart's best interest in mind, not everyone's promises mean something. An attempt was made to plant a bitter and cynical seed where once there was a pure belief in love.</span><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Deep down you knew this was coming. They've never missed an opportunity to remind you just how insignificant you can be in their world. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">And it crushes you every time. You let it crush you because you can't bring yourself to inflict the pain. It can crush but this time it didn't break you. Because this time the reenforcement of that fragile heart behind the scenes made all the difference. It will always hurt, it hurts because it mattered once, but no more. </span><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Life continues, a heart mends, you progress, the world continues to spin. I used to wonder how the earth never fell from its axis with the weight of emotional pain people carry around. But, I have learned there is nothing so bad it is impossible to recover from.</span><br /><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">So, the physics of the quest in this scenario? You have to have faith, faith in others, in yourself. In the universe. We are unpredictable as a species, self involved, self destructive and inexplicable in our actions. But on the other hand as a result of this bump on the cosmic highway I have experienced the most incredible kindness, from the most unexpected sources. I have had to face and forgive some very difficult realities about myself. And the answer to the question on the end of this journey? No one can write my story for me. So I will pick myself up, dust my heart off, learn to trust once more and put nothing out into the universe that doesn't have the best intentions attached. We can never be broken down so far that we cannot rebuild ourselves stronger, wiser and more empathetic. </span><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">As we continue on this beautiful road called life I will be infinitely grateful for the incredible good that has revealed itself, which was always there and which is stronger than ever. You have learned through this journey that unconditional love exists and it is a beautiful thing. Something which could have so easily hardened me and stripped me of my belief? Has only reenforced it further. There is something bittersweet and poetic about it because there is nothing to be lost, only gained. And an appreciation for what was found in the process, the most precious of things.</span><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">A fond farewell to the last decade... and on to the next chapter. </span><br /><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">I carry all the good with me, </span><div><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div><div><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Always.</span><br /></div>Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-44746793320953859672018-04-23T10:03:00.001-07:002018-05-16T07:23:45.779-07:00Age 21, The 8th Amendment and Me. Why We Need to Repeal.Ugh, well here's a post I never expected to write... It's funny, the only things that have really prompted me to sit down and write lately, are the topics I feel extremely passionate about. This story isn't going to be an easy one for me to tell. It's one I have never spoken about publicly before, those close to me may know it, but for the most part, it has remained locked away inside.<br />
<br />
My experience with the 8th Amendment is extremely personal, not everyone will agree, not everyone has to. That is the joy of living in a democracy. To be honest, in my late teens and early 20's it was something I believed would never affect me. Until, it did.<br />
<br />
I found out I was pregnant in early March of 2007. I was living in Dublin at the time, working in Merrion Square. I remember going to the doctor on my lunch break, not being able to shake the feeling of nausea that had plagued me for weeks. 'I'm just run down.' I thought. The 6am starts coupled with an already somewhat volatile relationship I had been in for 6 months at the time. I remember the doctor asking me for a urine sample, I had a history of kidney infections and UTI's so in my book, this was par for the course. Until she popped a strip into the pot, it wasn't the familiar one, with the blocks of colour that would tell me if I had to fork out a fortune I didn't have on antibiotics I wasn't sure I needed. I remember those three minutes in painstaking detail. I remember the ticking of the clock on the wall, the creak of the chair the unfamiliar GP sat in as she moved uncomfortably. She was a stranger, I had never met her before, she never once met my anxious gaze. I remember her picking up the plastic tab, she tapped it 4 times off the pot and snapped the top of the test back into place, and handed it to me. I stared at the test, then at her. 'I don't know what this means?' I said feeling a sense of dread and panic take hold. "It means you're pregnant, congratulations."<br />
<br />
I don't even remember leaving her office, I remember regaining some sense of self on a bench in the park in Merrion Square. I sat staring in the direction of Hollis Street, tears silently streaming down my face. Plagued by one single question 'What am I going to do?' I began the walk back to work in a daze. Everything was different, it was as if the world around me was in a fog and I was too far away to recognise anything familiar. No landmarks, no familiar faces, no light to follow. I returned to work, went about my duties and got my bus home. I was living with a friend at the time who was home, I remember putting a brave face on as I told him. I remember my partner returning home and telling him, he was happy... for the time being. It was the weekend of St. Patricks/Mothers Day and I was returning to my hometown to see my family. I had no intention of breathing a word to anyone on this trip. The weekend took an unexpected turn with the death of a close family member. I stayed at home longer than intended until the funeral was over.<br />
<br />
My return to Dublin was like being slapped in the face with the reality of the situation. This was real, it was happening, I needed a plan. On my lunch break I sat in the basement bathroom on the phone to Cura, or Positive Options. The fear and anxiety of everything was getting too much. Two people knew, and both didn't know how I truly felt. Scared, alone and anxious. The lady on the phone asked me if I had considered all my options. I hung up on that call feeling worse than before. A lady I worked with who I guess looking back I would consider my work mother found me crying in a cubicle, I blurted the whole story out. She knelt in front of me held my hand and said 'Aundrea, you have to tell your family.' So I called and came down from Dublin, my heart in my mouth and said the words out loud. 'Im pregnant'. My life as I knew it was over. All the options were laid out in front of me, including travelling for an abortion. I recoiled at the word. But I respectfully said I would talk to someone and consider all my options.<br />
<br />
I did go to meet with someone, and as I sat in that waiting room, I was surrounded by young women all considering or adamant about making that trip across the sea. Some were visibly and understandably emotional. Others were quietly resigned to their decision, speaking in hushed voices about the reasons why. As I sat there, I thought about how brave those women were, to make maybe the toughest decision they would ever face in their life. There was no judgement in that room, just a sense of silent support as meek smiles were exchanged if eyes met. It was in that moment I knew, I shouldn't be there. This wasn't for me. No judgement, just an infinite respect for the women who knew it was the right choice for them. As I left that building I felt a sense of relief. That this was the right thing for me. In that moment, it didn't matter what anyone else thought of me, it was my decision, something no one could take away from me.<br />
<br />
On the bus journey to my apartment, my body and my mind were firmly rooted with me, but my heart remained in that waiting room, it was with the 5 women who occupied it with me before I had walked out. I thought about how difficult that choice must have been for them, the obstacles now facing them. Having to leave the country as one person, and returning forever changed. I remember thinking that it shouldn't be. Those 5 women have often crossed my mind, at the strangest of times. I find myself thinking about them, their journeys, their experience, how they were now, how they felt.<br />
<br />
It's been 11 years since I made that decision, time has of course moved us on, but our country has not progressed. We still labour under the misapprehension that we have the right to dictate what women do with their bodies. We are still exporting women, still denying them their bodily autonomy. This country has a sad history of hiding, hushing, silencing and ignoring women. No more. I can tell you from personal experience that a crisis or unplanned pregnancy is the scariest thing a woman can face. The sense of fear, anxiety, loneliness and yes, even shame are overwhelming and made infinitely more difficult by the lack of options.<br />
<br />
I don't want to bog this post down with statistics. There are people far more qualified than me to inform you on such things. I'm writing this because my experience made me a staunch advocate for choice, for women, and for our voices being heard. It's time. It's about making an already difficult decision a little easier, its about removing the stigma, the judgement and the uncertainty for the women of this country in the future. It's for our daughters, our nieces, our grandchildren. It's time to give them the choice without being ashamed. The Repeal campaign is a labour of love for so many citizens in this country, both male and female. It is an act of love and trust for the women of Ireland. Its so important to respect women enough to show support on Repealing the 8th. In my experience with this country and progressive votes such as Voting Yes to Gay Marriage, I couldn't have been prouder of our little island. It's time to be proud of what we stand for again, of who we are as a Nation.<br />
<br />
I believe that love, trust, respect and educating yourself on any matter in this Nation especially Repealing will always outweigh the need to scaremonger, spread misinformation and suppress the voices of those who came before this Vote. I will never be able to state the importance of choice enough, there is not one day that passes where I don't think about my decision and not a week that passes where my heart doesn't find those 5 women in that waiting room. So once again, For our daughters, our nieces, our grandchildren and for future generations. It's time, it's time to Repeal the 8th.Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-22420301428155529492017-05-29T17:22:00.001-07:002017-05-29T17:22:54.081-07:00Weight, Shame, Unhappiness and Me...Hey there,<br />
<br />
It's me, Aundrea... I know what you're thinking 'It's been 3 years, you don't call, you never write...' I know, I know! The truth is, I haven't really had anything to say. I've spent the past few years being encapsulated in my own little world but I always promised myself I would come back when I have something to say, so here I am.<br />
<br />
Most of you know me either in real life, through social media or for my ramblings and reviews in the world of fragrance and cosmetics or at the very least, that one post where I had my bottom and vagina waxed for your entertainment... yeah, they were good times right? Actually, some of the best, but thats not what prompted me to sit down and open up Blogger tonight. Yes this post is about me, but it's the part of me you've never seen. The insecure, lost, and slightly irrational side of me that I have been battling for as long as I can remember.<br />
<br />
Last June something happened in my personal life that prompted me to take a long hard look in the mirror, and let me tell you as someone who had spent the past 10 years actively avoiding mirrors, the reflection that stared back at me was not something I was ready for. So you can understand what I mean when I say this let me explain a few things to you.<br />
<br />
If you had known me in my late teens, early 20's the girl you would have known was genuinely happy, she was funny, smart, sarcastic, loving and a little bit of a push over. This post is about how I lost that girl, became one I didn't like and found a way to become a woman I love.<br />
<br />
In 2006 I met a guy in a bar that my friends and I used to hang out at a couple of nights a week... that night changed my life and would lead to a series of events that would rock the very foundations of the person I was and would have a lasting effect on the person I would become for the next 10 years. I often look back on that night and wonder how different my life would have been if he hadn't joined us at our table...<br />
<br />
I have written about my experience with domestic violence before... For me, the daily abuse I suffered while I was pregnant with this mans child is still something I have trouble comprehending. When I talk about it, I feel like in a way I have become so detached from the situation that it almost feels like I'm talking about events in someone else's life instead of my own. I went through things that no man or woman should ever have to go through and as a result it changed the very foundation of the person I am. One person went into that relationship, a very different one came out. A girl who was afraid of confrontation, who saw no value in herself or what she could offer people, someone who was afraid of letting people get close to her, who couldn't take even the smallest criticism without falling apart, who couldn't trust and because of all this, someone who hated what she saw when she looked in the mirror.<br />
<br />
It is important that you know this to understand how I ended up at that point last Summer. Yes my life continued and yes I've met people along the way who have shown me that there is good out there, that I can trust and above all know my worth but this battle hasn't been an easy win. My coping mechanism to get from that girl, to a year ago was comfort, and like when I was a teenager my comfort was food. My weight began to creep upward from the moment that relationship ended, and it continued to do so for 9 years until I saw a picture of myself at my daughters communion. I was completely and utterly ashamed of the image that stared back at me. Was that me? Was that what I had become? How did I let this happen?<br />
<br />
This led to a couple of months of soul searching on my behalf to try and figure out where it all began and the truth is what I just described above is how it started, I used food as a means to either reward or console myself every single time something went right or wrong in my life. And here I was, disgusted with the person I had become. No self confidence, once again, no self worth, avoiding social interactions, not to mention mirrors. I needed to do something, I needed to take back control of my life and begin to shape myself into the person I wanted to be. Thats when I decided the weight had to go.<br />
<br />
This meant having a fairly serious conversation with myself about realistic expectations. I have never in my entire life been what you would refer to as thin, and I never will be. It's not about that, the goal here is my health and happiness. I wanted to be a reasonable weight and in all honesty if I got to somewhere between 12 and a half or 13 stone I would be over the moon. So thats the target I set myself, the next issue was HOW?! I spoke to my GP who I adore, she is literally the most supportive person, the kind that gives it to you straight without reducing you to tears... always a bonus right?! We spoke about a variety of different options and I decided on Slimming World.<br />
<br />
I found my local group online and called the number attached, a lady called Sinead was the group leader. My heart was in my mouth as the phone rang out, when she answered we spoke about group times and locations and I decided on a Tuesday group at 7.30pm. That gave me 6 days to mentally prepare myself to attend and face the numbers on the scales. I feel it's worth mentioning at this point that I hadn't stepped on a scales in oh i don't know 10 years?! I knew it wasn't going to be easy but I also knew that this was what I had to do to take control over a situation that was making me desperately unhappy.<br />
<br />
Tuesday January the 24th rolled around, it was the day after my birthday... and I promised myself that if I was going to do this, I was all in. I left the house at 7pm, poised for an anxiety attack, worried about being judged and afraid of the harsh truth that awaited me when I stepped on those scales. I'm not going to the the breakdown of the induction and meetings that inevitably come with these weightloss posts because no doubt you've heard it before. Just know that when I stepped on those scales, NOTHING could have prepared me for those numbers that stared back at me. Sinead never batt an eyelid, she asked me for an interim target and told me I could do this, and for the first time in my life, I believed that.<br />
<br />
It's been 4 months of my weekly Tuesday night meetings, and my life has changed exponentially for the better. Already I have more confidence than those 10 years lost combined, I'm a happier person, I'm a healthier person and I am also happy to report that I am also nearly 2 stone lighter. Some of this I had hoped for, dare I say expected? But the one thing I didn't expect was the love and support that have come my way since making the decision to join that group. The women and men that I have met have become family in a way. We are there for each other each and every week, we're genuinely delighted for the losses and targets achieved and we feel the pain of those bad weeks and gains, my group have taught me that I'm not alone in this struggle and that I have people there to lean on in times of need and who I can support and encourage in return in their times of need. It is honestly one of the best decisions I have ever made.<br />
<br />
My life has already changed so much, I still have a long way to go, but knowing how great it feels to have come this far and seeing those positive changes in myself as well as my body is really the best gift I could have ever given myself. I feel like I have become fully aware of who I am, and the person I will continuously strive to be, because I know how shitty it felt to be so utterly lost. Thats why I wanted to write this post, it is in a way, a testament to myself and how far I have come in a year. I can look in the mirror and know that instead of hating the person looking back, I can be proud of the one I've become. It has taken a lot to get to this point and it'll take a lot more to get to where I want to be, but I'm a work in progress and there is nothing wrong with that... it has taken me a long time to learn to be kind to myself and show myself some sort of love or encouragement. If even the smallest part of this post sounds familiar to you, or prompts you to try and improve your happiness then writing this post has been worth it.<br />
<br />
Deciding to take the steps to work and improve on yourself is never easy, but one of the most important relationships we have in life is with ourselves... don't you think thats a relationship worth cultivating? I certainly do, my only regret is its taken me so long to do it.<br />
<br />
If you've gotten to this point, thank you for reading. Be kind to yourself, and if you've been trifling with the idea of some self improvement, my advice is go for it! You never know where it may lead you...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Aundrea x</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-50485335918704272622014-09-04T06:00:00.001-07:002014-09-04T06:05:08.823-07:00Think Pink with Yves Saint Laurent - Rose Glow CollectionHey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well! My infinite infatuation with YSL reigns supreme today with a look at their incredibly beautiful Rose Glow Collection. "My favourite colour after black, is pink" - Yves Saint Laurent, a man after my own heart. At it's heart, it is nothing if not a stunning rose gold collection, reminding us that a touch of rosy pink with subtle underlying gold tones is the secret to a universally flattering, youthful glow. Let's take a closer look, shall we?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4zdHwN75nIyuvq3HQojjg6hAiB5FugFOBL4pKjpyFjEIsH0-kPS_CXoUvCnulWOJ1wrkHzJH6Qn3cllPHXL-uBa_S12NdIPP8pqh1JIviLWAj-sXIRCmqxnlsrL7HmLpgHVMFmqCxO4/s1600/YSL+Rose+Gold+Primer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4zdHwN75nIyuvq3HQojjg6hAiB5FugFOBL4pKjpyFjEIsH0-kPS_CXoUvCnulWOJ1wrkHzJH6Qn3cllPHXL-uBa_S12NdIPP8pqh1JIviLWAj-sXIRCmqxnlsrL7HmLpgHVMFmqCxO4/s1600/YSL+Rose+Gold+Primer.jpg" height="640" width="332" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First up lets take a look at the exquisite Rose Gold Primer, this I have found to my absolute delight has a multitude of uses, you can mix it with your foundation for an all over glow, over foundation as an added highlighter, or my favourite use, is to wear it on its own, once applied to a well moisturised face it gives you the most fantastic dewy look, and it's subtle rose gold flecks lends you a beautiful glow without the disco ball side effect.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rwPeaLmz43cB6W-kPwWJ9mSoSp1RbXtMYCivDbkABzWgBMZMvwbIbm69ZNOpbXmTHhIxB6uTfvBJ8nEq0dodAfhKRVZ0QlgRIOuXnIjkjl19t_jn7j0kY5uTahz4DtzJ2D5stNQUIIM/s1600/ysl+rose+gold+highlighter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rwPeaLmz43cB6W-kPwWJ9mSoSp1RbXtMYCivDbkABzWgBMZMvwbIbm69ZNOpbXmTHhIxB6uTfvBJ8nEq0dodAfhKRVZ0QlgRIOuXnIjkjl19t_jn7j0kY5uTahz4DtzJ2D5stNQUIIM/s1600/ysl+rose+gold+highlighter.jpg" height="280" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
The Rose Gold Highlighter is a new look to an old favourite, Le Touche Eclat has been a staple in my makeup collection since a time where my entire makeup collection fit into a small makeup bag... This re imagining gives us what we love about the Touche Eclat but with an added surge of pink shimmering light, it really is just beautiful. I can only hope that YSL choose to make this a permanent product in their collection.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx458ct64uNHlfx93XvAWw9gBhoEfoT3RcZLG_0rxsTu4yH6Al-PEmNST8wv88gvSrrM_U4FzlmMBrbZ7GL-eNDdBzURGm3V8BJmEMVHiF-HgDArubvq2VUnm0cS87voS_fnYlrntyPU/s1600/ysl+rose+gold+blush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx458ct64uNHlfx93XvAWw9gBhoEfoT3RcZLG_0rxsTu4yH6Al-PEmNST8wv88gvSrrM_U4FzlmMBrbZ7GL-eNDdBzURGm3V8BJmEMVHiF-HgDArubvq2VUnm0cS87voS_fnYlrntyPU/s1600/ysl+rose+gold+blush.jpg" height="640" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
And now for the piece de resistance, The Rose Gold Blush *swoons* I am head over heals about this product and it is absolutely my favourite from the collection. Here we have a light pink shimmer incased in a burst of cerise perfection. This, is a show stopping blush. A light hand gives you just a subtle flush of this gorgeous colour, but if you're brave (and I recommend your are when it comes to this) what you're left with it, is the most incredible pop of pink on the cheeks, it really is unique and unlike anything I have in my collection, and that my dears, really says something!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib91KNbtyPAlLzwox8g4esrWo2RFSn9wGR5IW1q6ln5TzE3_FpTbCaGbLqwyfluoklTale64F91tZO1zAZHtUJV3VpQ2GfTgxgPfkBbiJP2-HjO_8M2dWhmrw3UJ0MqAA6IujZ5YLJeZE/s1600/YSL+Rose+Glow+Collection.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib91KNbtyPAlLzwox8g4esrWo2RFSn9wGR5IW1q6ln5TzE3_FpTbCaGbLqwyfluoklTale64F91tZO1zAZHtUJV3VpQ2GfTgxgPfkBbiJP2-HjO_8M2dWhmrw3UJ0MqAA6IujZ5YLJeZE/s1600/YSL+Rose+Glow+Collection.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
My final thoughts? In my opinion YSL have proved time and time again that they can do no wrong when it comes to their collection of truly stunning permanent and limited edition products and this is no exception. If you're a fan of YSL & a fan of Rose Gold, I highly recommend you check this collection out, it doesn't disappoint!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Thats it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on the collection?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Are you tempted?!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-38658103605005889612014-08-27T05:21:00.002-07:002014-08-27T05:28:20.618-07:00Ziaja - Manuka Tree Purifying Range<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Hey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well! Back to one of my all time favourite topics today, skincare. My second favourite topic vis a vis skincare is how Ziaja keep managing to knock it out of the park when it comes to affordable, reliable and effective skincare ranges. Today I'm taking a look at the newly launched 'Manuka Tree Purifying Range' for oily and combination skin.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJ34KzXNEc1CGmzOvzgOa8PEb2J8SMl23Vd_rljl8B9hmxeXOGMGV7nrA5ubajHuqp7a7XOR-FJ9UrWbV2xJFDlGfYn2GVu1tdgam86UFMDc-cXCYEVVALjs-E7ff2UnSWFX1urRVNNU/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+range+cleanser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJ34KzXNEc1CGmzOvzgOa8PEb2J8SMl23Vd_rljl8B9hmxeXOGMGV7nrA5ubajHuqp7a7XOR-FJ9UrWbV2xJFDlGfYn2GVu1tdgam86UFMDc-cXCYEVVALjs-E7ff2UnSWFX1urRVNNU/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+range+cleanser.jpg" height="640" width="330" /></a></div>
<br />
First up we have the Normalising Cleansing Gel. Full disclosure up front, I am not a massive fan of cleansing gels, I find them sticky and generally unpleasant to work with, I much prefer cream cleansers. This was good though, it felt really nice on, almost cooling on the skin. I've taken to using it with my Clarisonic to get the full effect because my skin has just been atrocious lately. I have to say, for a gel cleanser, it wasn't the nightmare I was expecting, there was no sticky residue and zero tackiness which was great. It left my skin feeling clean and soft, what more can you ask for?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUVPT7D8TRbAo15r5C5g-C8VjkI0CVnxbug9VojEI3mD_BbH5H70lzedTarjUmzMQETRDtlF2hS-XGV9hIMHDKmibp_tAmkeXc90N059EHAR29wyC6LLI7SKHPeXFPV3pbA8CQZI3YPw/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+toner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUVPT7D8TRbAo15r5C5g-C8VjkI0CVnxbug9VojEI3mD_BbH5H70lzedTarjUmzMQETRDtlF2hS-XGV9hIMHDKmibp_tAmkeXc90N059EHAR29wyC6LLI7SKHPeXFPV3pbA8CQZI3YPw/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+toner.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Astringent Face Toner is one of my favourites from the collection, it feels almost lotion like, very luxurious and smells just incredible. It contains organic acids which makes it an exfoliating toner, it's by no means harsh though, it's a real treat to use. My skin always feels squeaky clean without feeling dried out or tight. It's terrific if you're having any sort of a breakout, it really does the trick with preping the skin for any further treatment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNYGb6CIU_s2j1XqDHKG9ifsJN996C-qR6kQnp9NSk4dxa7MzT18dSdQXsBK2ZZ6vvGySrYcGiRyilEzPaGwciexQ1r0Fmm5ZKAuENuY1_iJ8aY0lXDzVc5gDr6Sv7LHwFX34ih26utM/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+day+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNYGb6CIU_s2j1XqDHKG9ifsJN996C-qR6kQnp9NSk4dxa7MzT18dSdQXsBK2ZZ6vvGySrYcGiRyilEzPaGwciexQ1r0Fmm5ZKAuENuY1_iJ8aY0lXDzVc5gDr6Sv7LHwFX34ih26utM/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+day+cream.jpg" height="640" width="450" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Normalising Day cream, I have found is a great base for under makeup. It seems to keep my t-zone woes under control, and you can't fault that. I do prefer something with a higher SPF in it though, so I've been mixing in my current SPF of choice if I know that I'll be out and about that day and it holds up really nicely.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCYgGhtv9rxmgagLnO0b0j90PUYJlMF6z5V59NU0jJm6-pqPANVdsyJYaFGaCjl-KwqltUc-R1EC1fMKV2itavrh-CJqqrkjMuE39CaUDj8rXBpn-xbFVtRhBOIYk25HQQl2mIII6XE1M/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+night+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCYgGhtv9rxmgagLnO0b0j90PUYJlMF6z5V59NU0jJm6-pqPANVdsyJYaFGaCjl-KwqltUc-R1EC1fMKV2itavrh-CJqqrkjMuE39CaUDj8rXBpn-xbFVtRhBOIYk25HQQl2mIII6XE1M/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+night+cream.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
The Gently Exfoliating Night Cream I just love, love LOVE! This is an absolute pleasure to use, it contains 3% Almond acid which helps to exfoliate the skin and assist with the regeneration of new cells. Like the rest of the range, it smells amazing. This applies like a dream, and sinks in quickly, I honestly cannot fault it, my skin has improved so much with persistent use.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxDbbLa8o0wXLE0Pdp-stQ7YXy8L3uJnZ5c288znOouN8UrnC0XNgYVovOLk1Zl6inB8HESGrEn9LxbqFSnGd_SBuWuz_J2Cohw2AGRioGNpJuKBz97jpl9RqJDWoLqAIxRgYClgwnuE/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+peel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxDbbLa8o0wXLE0Pdp-stQ7YXy8L3uJnZ5c288znOouN8UrnC0XNgYVovOLk1Zl6inB8HESGrEn9LxbqFSnGd_SBuWuz_J2Cohw2AGRioGNpJuKBz97jpl9RqJDWoLqAIxRgYClgwnuE/s1600/ziaja+manuka+tree+peel.jpg" height="640" width="416" /></a></div>
<br />
The Deeply Cleansing Peeling Paste is the stand out product from the range for me. Here's the thing, the first time I used this Glam Glow came to mind, it dries in the same way, and it sucks all the crap out of your skin in an even more explosive way than GG. With Ziaja you get a whopping 75ml of product for €4.99 vs €60 from Glam Glow, it's exactly the same effect and I have tried every GG Mask. Trust me, save yourself €55 and you'll be bowled over with the results. I found it incredible.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8U0-WDeru1Fr3-bMuAlPdukcpn5F1jzFZQEJbL4mN9Kw7OUH9cHH6KTxMYTYNv2iw7WwByw4e_ZBpYqW69HQ3FM4UMAm3KR7ghCzv0eWzcIsxcNIDx8IhHjfZC2EfyC5I7uqh_JnN5Nc/s1600/Ziaja+manuka+tree+range.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8U0-WDeru1Fr3-bMuAlPdukcpn5F1jzFZQEJbL4mN9Kw7OUH9cHH6KTxMYTYNv2iw7WwByw4e_ZBpYqW69HQ3FM4UMAm3KR7ghCzv0eWzcIsxcNIDx8IhHjfZC2EfyC5I7uqh_JnN5Nc/s1600/Ziaja+manuka+tree+range.jpg" height="548" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
All in all, I give the Manuka Tree Range from Ziaja two very enthusiastic thumbs up. For just under €30 you have yourself an effective and well stocked skincare regime. Whether you're having trouble with acne, oily skin or you know a teenager who is going through a rough time (we all remember how much fun that was right?) It's such a terrific range and I honestly cannot recommend it enough.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Any stand out products above that you feel</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>you might like to try?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-73920140123100850072014-08-26T06:58:00.000-07:002014-08-26T07:05:33.056-07:00La Vie est Belle - L'Absolu de Parfum & Illuminating Fragrance Oil by LancomeHey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well! I have new products from a fragrance line that I just adore to share with you today! You all know by now of my obsession with La Vie est Belle from Lancome. I'm 5 bottles in with the original fragrance the EDP, and on my second bottle of the L'EDT. So when I found out there was to be a new L'ADP & Fragrance Oil to be released, I jumped on that bandwagon without a single moments hesitation. Let's take a closer look, shall we?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgfT6jtJFuJq3y9C5em22sn_pu5hxTvp572e7L3_t5CCAg5E8h5bIGxhpyqJ4L2S-wEtqpLD3yC1NIifVA3YD2KdKvXdysaZfgJXKMcDe1bSA9xVcRVJkqstMkH07OsBmxTe2a6tO5bU/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+absolu+de+parfum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgfT6jtJFuJq3y9C5em22sn_pu5hxTvp572e7L3_t5CCAg5E8h5bIGxhpyqJ4L2S-wEtqpLD3yC1NIifVA3YD2KdKvXdysaZfgJXKMcDe1bSA9xVcRVJkqstMkH07OsBmxTe2a6tO5bU/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+absolu+de+parfum.jpg" height="558" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First up lets take a look at the L'Absolu De Parfum. More intense and more luxurious than the original L'ADP takes the best notes and intensifies them to the point of swoon worthiness. Once again perfumers Dominique Ropion & Anne Flipo have worked their magic to give us one of the most incredible scent experiences of 2014. The top notes of the fragrance are pear and blackcurrent, it has a heart of iris, orange blossom, damascus rose and jasmine. The base notes are what really makes this fragrance something special for me, tonka bean, praline, cashmere and if I'm not mistaken a hint of Vanilla. The key ingredients for an 'Aundrea will love' fragrance. What I adore about this new take on La Vie est Belle, is that Lancome have found a way to keep it constantly evolving on your skin. That initial spritz has a beautiful powdery feel to it, but once you leave it to do it's thing, you are rewarded with the most intense infusion of sweet meets woodiness, mingling elegantly together in a way that only Lancome's La Vie est Belle can seem to accomplish in the oh so effortless spritz of a perfume. It really is incredibly beautiful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxioOepzMmH-QAwAPq6lGf2CXNfB7UBOgSisyz9Yv0Imoo-6OnYaFwWLbHKHHfQ51zuMDzMdO20Y1haGhN2q9b_9KHbTdPL5kDAVh_8f7t_MJAHb3J-X6T7Pm4zejYymZ1wK7ktCzUfA/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+illuminating+fragrance+oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxioOepzMmH-QAwAPq6lGf2CXNfB7UBOgSisyz9Yv0Imoo-6OnYaFwWLbHKHHfQ51zuMDzMdO20Y1haGhN2q9b_9KHbTdPL5kDAVh_8f7t_MJAHb3J-X6T7Pm4zejYymZ1wK7ktCzUfA/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+illuminating+fragrance+oil.jpg" height="640" width="336" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Illuminating Fragrance Oil for me, is a no brainer 'you need it, and you need it now' sort of product. It's a non-greasy dry oil infused with the exquisite scent of the iconic La Vie est Belle fragrance. Lancome have enhanced it with three of the most active natural oils. Sweet Almond plant oil, for its softening and nourishing properties. Apricot oil for it's fatty acids and antioxidants which help repair and tone the skin. And Sesame Oil for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. I should also mention that this is a multi use oil. I like to use it after a long, hot bath before bed, the scent is so incredibly relaxing and because it's one of my all time favourites wearing it feels like coming home, which pretty much guarantees a blissful nights slumber! You can also use this as a hair oil, I find it fantastic for dry ends and it gives a terrific shine without looking greasy! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9afPCLnMYyMbizYAwHrCvcYOCStak0JVmtb4OY8R-T94Nk83_RA68-vyBWeLmaq1G8MWLxxSmtQvUUPymsa57wxU8ZoJWWG43-OiuUiepBofflywxtTBAxxeKk5VNaSKkaDLt8QGDxY/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+l'absolu%2Bde%2Bparfum%2Band%2Bperfume%2Boil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9afPCLnMYyMbizYAwHrCvcYOCStak0JVmtb4OY8R-T94Nk83_RA68-vyBWeLmaq1G8MWLxxSmtQvUUPymsa57wxU8ZoJWWG43-OiuUiepBofflywxtTBAxxeKk5VNaSKkaDLt8QGDxY/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+l'absolu%2Bde%2Bparfum%2Band%2Bperfume%2Boil.jpg" height="522" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Both of these new additions to the range are so luxurious, and such a beautiful way to spoil yourself! There really is no excuse not to run out and buy one if not both of these, especially if you're a fan of the fragrance range like I am. My only hope is that Lancome will bring out a La Vie est Belle Bath Oil, and maybe a linen mist too?! I can't seem to get enough of this fragrance. It's l'absolu love (see what I did there?! I'll get me coat).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on Lancome's newest additions?</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Will you be purchasing?!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>As always let me know below!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-33894660541204783852014-08-08T07:54:00.000-07:002014-08-08T07:54:06.853-07:00Skinician's Miracle Glycolic Peel at The White Orchid Walkinstown Hey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well. I have a unique post for you today, all about the marvel's of The Skinician Glycolic Face Peel. I recently paid a visit to my go to salon in Dublin, The White Orchid in Walkinstown. Some of you may remember the post I did on my experience with Waxperts Hollywood Treatment I received there. Let me tell you, I was more than a little excited when my favourite beautician Janice asked me to come in to review Skinician's Glycolic Peel, I was unsure what to expect, mainly I was just hoping I didn't leave looking like this.... If you don't get the following reference, we just can't be friends anymore.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_3keCJsxh5PwOQSvdIKwYT2aC8LXcbLXNtWNG7LZhohITvPHYdl3XkxRXAkxazixvYQIRqM2KxPEKHlDtdC3rb2kVJQjoTE3SQxUDqSIkdIe889ZAUsFgZellYH1kJoHZeGGcKus3IFY/s1600/skinician+glycol+face+peel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_3keCJsxh5PwOQSvdIKwYT2aC8LXcbLXNtWNG7LZhohITvPHYdl3XkxRXAkxazixvYQIRqM2KxPEKHlDtdC3rb2kVJQjoTE3SQxUDqSIkdIe889ZAUsFgZellYH1kJoHZeGGcKus3IFY/s1600/skinician+glycol+face+peel.jpg" height="400" width="343" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course, I was in good hands and had one of the most relaxing and enjoyable experiences in my beauty blogging career! Janice had some questions for me: skin type, problem areas etc, and with me under a fleecy blanket of loveliness she set to work.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqwZocUy7rzNdNViYLvZH-HwYr0wIt3Evbq7PRhlZylMOyqqhWs79M_OEFBGTxpOJUyFiBVWs0Xyo1rwEeEWF9MxxQo7S4pLZNPk5C75FG8H1s52UBC6W46DeOs9LexTWQvBgO9QC3H4k/s1600/skinician_brand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqwZocUy7rzNdNViYLvZH-HwYr0wIt3Evbq7PRhlZylMOyqqhWs79M_OEFBGTxpOJUyFiBVWs0Xyo1rwEeEWF9MxxQo7S4pLZNPk5C75FG8H1s52UBC6W46DeOs9LexTWQvBgO9QC3H4k/s1600/skinician_brand.jpg" height="314" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Janice began by using the Revitalising Cleanser to ensure that my face was clean and fully prepped. She then used the Purifying Cleansing Gel as part of the double cleanse, paying particular attention to the clogged and congested problem areas I had told her about, which by the way smelled so, so good. The next step was the incredibly fine Facial Exfoliator she used to slough away the on-the-surface dead skin. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now for the main event, and one of the most heavenly experience I have ever been privy to, the Glycolic Peel itself. Janice applied a generous layer of the treatment, which I have to say smelled absolutely incredible! It tingled a little, but was by no means uncomfortable in any way, shape of form. I found the scent and this entire section of the process so relaxing. While the treatment was working it's magic, Janice used the signature Relaxing Oil for a neck, shoulder and arm massage. As you can imagine, at this stage, I was ready to fall asleep! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once Janice removed the Glycolic Peel, she then applied the Purifying Mask, followed by the Hydrating Repair Mask (talk about being pampered!). After they had been rinsed off and Janice checked that I was still breathing due the lack of my regular babbling, she told me that she was in the final stages of the treatment. She applied the uber luxurious Advanced Calming Serum, Restoring Night Cream and Advanced Eye Repair. Janice informed me that she was going to give me a few minutes to bring myself back into the land of the living. My time with Skinician's Glycolic Face Peel was up. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My final thoughts on the treatment? Absolutely incredible and worth every single cent! Although, a treatment as luxurious as this won't set you back as much as you think. It's €39 for the facial, which is incredibly affordable knowing the quality of both the treatment and the therapist that are included in the price. I left feeling incredibly relaxed, my skin felt soft, smooth, clean and glowing. I'm so in love with The White Orchid, Janice never disappoints and she always goes above and beyond to make sure you're relaxed and happy while providing the best treatments available. I honestly can't recommend her, her beautiful salon and the incredible Skinician Facial enough!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Have you ever had a Glycolic Peel?</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts?</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>If you have any Skinician products to recommend,</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let me know below!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea </b></div>
<br />
<b><i>To make an appointment with Janice at The White Orchid:</i></b><br />
<b><i>Call - 01 456 9079</i></b><br />
<b><i>Facebook - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thewhiteorchid12?fref=ts" target="_blank">here.</a></i></b>Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-12307696012406855532014-07-03T07:45:00.001-07:002014-07-03T07:45:48.508-07:00Under the Nail File - A Trip to NJM Nails AthloneHey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well! This is a first for me, I've never done a nail post before. The main reason being because I have massive trust issues when it comes to my nails. I kind of subscribed to the school of thought that if I did them myself and messed them up, I'd have no one else to blame! Recently on Instagram and Twitter I had noticed pictures popping up in both feeds, of incredible nail designs from a gal in my hometown, Nicola. I was so impressed that we arranged an appointment for myself and Addie to travel out and have a Mammy/Daughter pamper day and get our nails done!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21hmlk7aR2dO2WkmrVazaDWByq9hBXQbiAU1E3kGjt35BjSjEjRG0M27gdskuI0l8zBYDOOfvVkhFzGz2lnfl_9N1Kj3Bys6sCmsH4cMRxsJ3X5h2f3lcM6VzP2SGZMA6yL25HO1oANo/s1600/NJM+Nails+Athlone+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj21hmlk7aR2dO2WkmrVazaDWByq9hBXQbiAU1E3kGjt35BjSjEjRG0M27gdskuI0l8zBYDOOfvVkhFzGz2lnfl_9N1Kj3Bys6sCmsH4cMRxsJ3X5h2f3lcM6VzP2SGZMA6yL25HO1oANo/s1600/NJM+Nails+Athlone+Collage.jpg" height="618" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Lady Addison went first, and chose the most adorable design! I was really excited right from the off, mainly because Addie was so excited! She chose her colours and Nicola set off to work filing, buffing and putting Addie right at ease. It was lovely to see Addison so entranced by the entire process, she got a big kick out of the dotting tool, I think in her eyes Nicola soon became a nail magician rather than a nail technician! A title well deserved in my opinion, just look at the incredible job she did!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2xuXGF-EYbz7izq-ekMG2GXOJ-RXleJUgY501PvQ69LTO7-Y03cnviayzO1YRyUeyE0GZVcQwRl_efDqi9t7Pz-dohTbyKeay-9ZjiVqx2mvjyBUUgnEISqcVQx3ZDBkT3Mcqn1KJIE/s1600/NJM+Nails+Athlone+Kids+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2xuXGF-EYbz7izq-ekMG2GXOJ-RXleJUgY501PvQ69LTO7-Y03cnviayzO1YRyUeyE0GZVcQwRl_efDqi9t7Pz-dohTbyKeay-9ZjiVqx2mvjyBUUgnEISqcVQx3ZDBkT3Mcqn1KJIE/s1600/NJM+Nails+Athlone+Kids+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once Princess Addie was finito, it was my turn to go under the file! I had been thinking about a change in nail shape for quite a while, so I decided to go from square tips to Stiletto's! I was really surprised at how quick Nicola was able to transform my nails from Chanel Ballet Pumps to mile high Louboutin's! I know if I'd attempted it, I'd still be filing... We decided on a nude/pink gel, with incredible Swarovski crystals (yes, real ones!). Once she had finished, my nails felt and looked a million dollars. I was so, so impressed with the skill and precision with which Nicola worked, the end result was more than incredible and I honestly can say with total confidence, I would never let another person touch my nails again. I will absolutely be returning to keep my nails in tip top shape! I know they're in the best hands. Here's a before and after of my nails!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMWqlKsmapI_SYdVOGqCd0fu9hSqEnV_M4Q0qfb_Mdk8hzme4GgV_3UOPCKEuAtSrrKZD_gJ0giXJyKHGJzBitHgLGfFfUIq6Kji1AWBLHKtbfe4hyphenhyphenxKcxLWRIwyuBPy6zAc0Wk5Sdo-Y/s1600/NJM+Nails+Athlone+Before+and+After+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMWqlKsmapI_SYdVOGqCd0fu9hSqEnV_M4Q0qfb_Mdk8hzme4GgV_3UOPCKEuAtSrrKZD_gJ0giXJyKHGJzBitHgLGfFfUIq6Kji1AWBLHKtbfe4hyphenhyphenxKcxLWRIwyuBPy6zAc0Wk5Sdo-Y/s1600/NJM+Nails+Athlone+Before+and+After+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's a quick peek at some of the amazing custom designs and colours Nicola has on offer in her Salon - </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAHccMQtN2hsDOxJ-12yMJM4-YfIOQVoXV_oukXw6q-S8H7D3XngzU-bcj5rrNfmjl_97PjNP6FKIHPg0-NaBpcnAMr27EDKDx_46N-fd2UqyD_YlE6D4dS8oByCVmSOPGUiEo9-sovo/s1600/NJM+Nail+Designs+Athlone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAHccMQtN2hsDOxJ-12yMJM4-YfIOQVoXV_oukXw6q-S8H7D3XngzU-bcj5rrNfmjl_97PjNP6FKIHPg0-NaBpcnAMr27EDKDx_46N-fd2UqyD_YlE6D4dS8oByCVmSOPGUiEo9-sovo/s1600/NJM+Nail+Designs+Athlone.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>So that's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Let me know your experiences with getting your nails done!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>The Good, The Bad and The Ugly! </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>I want to hear it all!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>If you would like to make an appointment with Nicola at NJM Nails Athlone:</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>PHONE: 0868289170</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>EMAIL: njmnailsirl@gmail.com</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>TWITTER: @NJMNails</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i>INSTAGRAM: @njmnails</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i><u>Nicola is also available to hire for events!</u></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-47240992043128702262014-06-24T14:12:00.000-07:002014-06-24T14:12:32.252-07:00Elemis Vs. This Works: Deep Sleep Pillow SprayHey ladies,<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope you're well. I have a battle of the deep sleep spray's for you today! I had never been a particularly bad sleeper until recently when I began having steroid injections for my Tendonitis. I'm not so good with steroids, I can't sleep, and then the OCD starts to kick in which leads to me re-organising my makeup collection or cleaning the house at 4 in the morning. Even with the sleeping tablets my doctor had prescribed to combat that, they didn't help much. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjrzwi7eJtTeXNdD4VMMVPPDVU5-ahv5oH8VXugT6rVr1vBZrpdt1KgMykHPSQwgRI7Pd5xqSDABo0ffh7MtlLRzdBSS1mF5SLCyF8eXRZ4nA74nM0WpDufZyrx09BFS15VseUAtZdxGw/s1600/this+works+vs+elemis+sleep+spray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjrzwi7eJtTeXNdD4VMMVPPDVU5-ahv5oH8VXugT6rVr1vBZrpdt1KgMykHPSQwgRI7Pd5xqSDABo0ffh7MtlLRzdBSS1mF5SLCyF8eXRZ4nA74nM0WpDufZyrx09BFS15VseUAtZdxGw/s1600/this+works+vs+elemis+sleep+spray.jpg" height="640" width="418" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Que advice from the ever fabulous Chloe over at <a href="http://www.nursefancypants.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank">NurseFancyPants</a> who mentioned the great things This Works Deep Sleep Spray had done for her, and kindly offered to send me a spare bottle she had to try it. Whilst I was gutting and redecorating my room (another terrific idea I'd had whilst trying to find sleep) I came across a bottle of the Elemis Quite Mind spray which is supposed to have a similar effect, and thusly the battle of the sleep spray's began!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZo89L8iEjfL3eb0WxQDiwyZejdJVG4aRyZK8ck639icuIZVgj9s4skmBhiFsaniKpmBZc_D0X_t-uMoHvp4bL7SQFtWd8ZMx7uAbmqsbwYsIHm4OMQI-h9mxjf04hP9GW_qG7WUISkWY/s1600/elemis+quiet+mind+spray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZo89L8iEjfL3eb0WxQDiwyZejdJVG4aRyZK8ck639icuIZVgj9s4skmBhiFsaniKpmBZc_D0X_t-uMoHvp4bL7SQFtWd8ZMx7uAbmqsbwYsIHm4OMQI-h9mxjf04hP9GW_qG7WUISkWY/s1600/elemis+quiet+mind+spray.jpg" height="640" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So up first is the Elemis Quiet Mind Spray. I have to be honest straight off the bat and say, the smell of this is incredibly cloying. You would nearly need to spray it and come back 45 minutes later when it's calmed down, but even then it's very strong. It contains lavender, eucalyptus, patchouli, all to promote a quite mind and good nights sleep, neither of which seemed to befall me when I used it. But, to be fair to the product, I have used it when I'm over the affects of the steroids and it's ok, nothing to write home about. It is disappointing. Not what I have come to expect from Elemis, which is unfortunate. I'll continue to use it until I finish the bottle of course, but I doubt there'll be any miracles!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKO51JFqvYObjr1iSlzwNf_l3UJzSeQhi_VGDdFMHJo41iwqphyphenhyphenc-tjRwPdk-ITYyRhV5a95ucmmj1xNnq4UilJNzMIfx994PP-D2hticH4QlFaDohhjmmSG9t14Tpxaybb7E0C82yrTo/s1600/deep+sleep+spray+this+works+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKO51JFqvYObjr1iSlzwNf_l3UJzSeQhi_VGDdFMHJo41iwqphyphenhyphenc-tjRwPdk-ITYyRhV5a95ucmmj1xNnq4UilJNzMIfx994PP-D2hticH4QlFaDohhjmmSG9t14Tpxaybb7E0C82yrTo/s1600/deep+sleep+spray+this+works+review.jpg" height="640" width="244" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My little miracle product, the This Works - Deep Sleep Pillow Spray! My first experience with This Works was when I picked up 2 incredible candles in TK Maxx: the Petitgrain & Jasmine and the Vetivert & Lavender, both of which smell amazing! I had read about the Deep Sleep Candle, but had never heard of the spray until Chloe mentioned it to me. As I said above she was super generous in sending me her spare bottle so, that night and almost every night since I have been using this on my pillow, and my, my This Works (see what I did there?!) an absolute treat! I can happily report that there was no re-organising my nail polish collection at stupid o'clock in the morning! It contains essential oils of lavender, camomile and Vetivert to soothe the body and mind! Addie went through a bit of a growth spurt recently which meant she wasn't sleeping that well so I used this on her pillow and it did the trick too, so I can say with confidence that this is a terrific little product!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All in all, the This Works - Deep Sleep Spray far surpasses the Elemis Quite Mind. I am absolutely enamoured with it, I actually received a back up spray in a goodie bag at the opening of the Space NK Apothecary last week, which is terrific. Another plus myself and the lovely Chloe were discussing was that no matter how much you spray it, it seems to last forever, always a huge bonus when you happen to be a little bit in the actual love with a product right?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>So, that's it for now ladies!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you've enjoyed!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on sleep sprays?</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Are you a fan?!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let me know below!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-61756805669738050322014-06-24T10:14:00.000-07:002014-06-24T10:14:29.893-07:00Max Benjamin Fragrance Diffusers: My New Addiction!Hey ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well and enjoying the lovely weather. I'm sorry I haven't been with you in a while BUT I am in recovery from a broken ankle! I think the only words of wisdom I could give you with regards to said broken ankle is DO NOT chase your 6 year old around the garden!<br />
<br />
It took me quite a while to decide what my first post back would be, and I was toying with the idea of telling you all why I think Billy Ocean might actually be my father, but then I thought no, best save that one for later...<br />
<br />
So I have chosen instead to tell you about my latest obsession, Max Benjamin Fragrance Diffusers. My obsession with these started when I went to visit my good friend Kat from <a href="http://www.doll.ie/" target="_blank">Dolly Rouge</a> for a weekend of nothing but food, fun, and pampering, and epic chats, not to mention The Vampire Diaries! I was immediately drawn to the scent in Kat's living room which was Mimosa and Sweet Amber from Max Benjamin. And so my obsession was born....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7D4BfanWQD_WxH5Lh5Dg6azxCCKHhPNf33uGvlRfPWlxpjRJLdoGN_ZDtoUtxPdemmyIi-QCLIl1INLTQyohApkQFbiFcGGlnIyI7nHzlYXT3o7vQNSmrLwyKCJU2Ig-HC6ti-ZyJfQE/s1600/max+benjamin+reed+difusser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7D4BfanWQD_WxH5Lh5Dg6azxCCKHhPNf33uGvlRfPWlxpjRJLdoGN_ZDtoUtxPdemmyIi-QCLIl1INLTQyohApkQFbiFcGGlnIyI7nHzlYXT3o7vQNSmrLwyKCJU2Ig-HC6ti-ZyJfQE/s1600/max+benjamin+reed+difusser.jpg" height="640" width="580" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It's not my first foray into the world of Max Benjamin, I've been a fan of their candles for as long as I can remember, starting with Blue Velvet and Elderberry which they have sadly discontinued. I actually bought a stockpile of the candle before they were taken off the shelves, but I miss it terribly so Max Benjamin, if you're reading this please, please, please bring it back! Im also a huge fan of Dodici, which smells just beautiful. It's quite a masculine scent but I just adore it! My only point of purchase in this town is Carraig Donn, so off I went to have a sniff, and completely fell in love!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8uvbYtFSDvo1c6iEgEAtBOVolr5qImbyMr3BW5N5iMY7-JIRAZ79CqDegOLkzs-CJHDBCxqDgGkDlMDAX6RyKViZvu32wzswW9M-j80KgK9QV045F0CxZ9wEP8cj9JmbHn98qWIRaoQ/s1600/max+benjamin+french+linen+water+diffuser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8uvbYtFSDvo1c6iEgEAtBOVolr5qImbyMr3BW5N5iMY7-JIRAZ79CqDegOLkzs-CJHDBCxqDgGkDlMDAX6RyKViZvu32wzswW9M-j80KgK9QV045F0CxZ9wEP8cj9JmbHn98qWIRaoQ/s1600/max+benjamin+french+linen+water+diffuser.jpg" height="640" width="462" /></a></div>
<br />
My first diffuser purchase was the incredible French Linen Water. I just love this scent, it's not something I would normally go for, but I was looking for something different. MB use only the finest selection of essential oils to create each diffuser, so it doesn't scrimp on the scent! It's scent includes the ever relaxing lavender, sweet orange and citrus notes which blend together beautifully! It always seems to smell different, and call me insane but, I detect notes of chocolate in there! It's just perfect.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjo9EO73DZNWmqVbYwNtSDSJjl4BnfavOhtSJUkAUgs29UYolS1Zp6X2M72i1o-I8_3BdKxWBk6z39h4Kzj8fKlEJAl5PNAyJ-_fxX-MZDCu_vteiC2r5HgHzRA5k7cH5txqv5GZpIykc/s1600/max+benjamin+mimosa+and+sweet+amber+diffuser+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjo9EO73DZNWmqVbYwNtSDSJjl4BnfavOhtSJUkAUgs29UYolS1Zp6X2M72i1o-I8_3BdKxWBk6z39h4Kzj8fKlEJAl5PNAyJ-_fxX-MZDCu_vteiC2r5HgHzRA5k7cH5txqv5GZpIykc/s1600/max+benjamin+mimosa+and+sweet+amber+diffuser+.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
My most recent purchase was this beauty, which I have to thank Kat for turning me onto. Mimosa & Sweet Amber. The soothing sweet amber in this fragrance makes this perfect for de-stressing after a long day of shuffling on my broken ankle. It also contains delicate top notes of green leaf and a tender heart of mimosa. I've really been enjoying how it mingles harmoniously with French Linen Water to create my own little unique scent. My room smells beautiful (even if I do say so myself) these scents are just a pleasure to be around.<br />
<br />
The fantastic thing about these beauties is that they come with a fantastic 150mls of product, which is a huge amount of fragrance! What's even better is the fact that you can purchase refills for when they run out, pretty nifty right?! They have such a terrific selection available on their website, I highly recommend you treat yourself because they are just stunning! I will be repurchasing refills for the ones above, but I also have every intention of letting my addiction take over and buying more! I do have my eye on 3 or 4... or 5! You know me... in for a penny in for a pound!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>So that's it for now ladies!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on Max Benjamin?!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Have you tried anything from the range?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-89179627732029254852014-04-07T09:24:00.001-07:002014-04-07T09:29:40.222-07:00Ziaja - The Holy Trinity of Enzyme PeelsHey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well! As a long time skincare obsessive, I have tried my fair share of face masks, peels, lotions and potions of every type. It's been a really long time since a budget skincare brand has impressed me. I find that more often than not, they're a complete let down, so I gave up trying them, wholeheartedly convinced that I would never find one, and that high end products were the only way to go. I was a total skincare cynic, until<b> Ziaja</b> came into my life. Today, I want to share with you my new skincare obsession from Ziaja - <b>Enzyme Peels</b>!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42Yw9VCycIb3bZmDgirDe9R1m8BQNvum-TH1qeHanHOxHAXNKTp2XW1pGOMILJpehGfdNTPNM2Z7YBwXQCA3QZAliNGSGvASWKdWG7Vyou73C-myGer5ZzCabtb2FioF1Yd4BjLYEzbQ/s1600/ziaja+enzyme+peel+trio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42Yw9VCycIb3bZmDgirDe9R1m8BQNvum-TH1qeHanHOxHAXNKTp2XW1pGOMILJpehGfdNTPNM2Z7YBwXQCA3QZAliNGSGvASWKdWG7Vyou73C-myGer5ZzCabtb2FioF1Yd4BjLYEzbQ/s1600/ziaja+enzyme+peel+trio.jpg" height="631" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Enzyme Peels have become incredibly popular recently. But what are they, and why are they so important? Well here's the sciencey bit behind it *puts on over sized glasses to look intelligent* enzyme peels are used to deeply cleanse and resurface the skin by treating the upper layers of skin tissue. It literally helps to peel the dead skin cells off the face. Sounds kind of gross I know, but it is incredibly important as these peels help the skin to promote renewal of shiny new healthy skin cells!<br />
<br />
I think a lot of people when they hear 'Enzyme Peel' suddenly conjure up the image of Samantha in Sex and the City, looking like a bee keeper hiding under a veil after a harsh chemical peel! This is not the case at all with Enzyme Peels, so don't be frightened! Ziaja have something for everyone in their Enzyme Peel Range! Lets take a closer look shall we?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGQyLN5DQA9mlDDJiaVGuKGTecBKix3IqWOdqwRjz5IQOtS9MkRUU_qGKJA_tfLKRcwBJkD64EF1kjLCFV3UeqUfBITNssgegOGhlTHoWKbD7zLS4LobQWOKDl4CxV8YaTXm-2cUg1nc/s1600/ziaja+enzyme+peel+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGQyLN5DQA9mlDDJiaVGuKGTecBKix3IqWOdqwRjz5IQOtS9MkRUU_qGKJA_tfLKRcwBJkD64EF1kjLCFV3UeqUfBITNssgegOGhlTHoWKbD7zLS4LobQWOKDl4CxV8YaTXm-2cUg1nc/s1600/ziaja+enzyme+peel+review.jpg" height="640" width="399" /></a></div>
<br />
The <b>SenSitive Skin Enzyme Peel</b> contains an enzyme called Papain, which is terrific for breaking down skin cells! The peel also contains Allantoin, and Castor Seed Oil which are praised for their soothing properties, and also Panthenol which is a pro vitamin of B5, a fantastic hydrating ingredient! This is one of my favourite Enzyme Peels, it leaves the skin feeling soft, plump and incredibly smooth! What more can you ask for?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmLA7mIVLXJGtENi48oPvOnrGezI11dwRQ-aKmCEuAbvtjd4wf1ZkFIsSj53OrFjOa9UC9qT_o34LP-jvR0ss5TGf-VZ4Qc7DSD6C_lqK6-QxfGurbN4RC2QB0DTNpiXJN4KyIh5-pac/s1600/ziaja+marine+algae+enzyme+peel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmLA7mIVLXJGtENi48oPvOnrGezI11dwRQ-aKmCEuAbvtjd4wf1ZkFIsSj53OrFjOa9UC9qT_o34LP-jvR0ss5TGf-VZ4Qc7DSD6C_lqK6-QxfGurbN4RC2QB0DTNpiXJN4KyIh5-pac/s1600/ziaja+marine+algae+enzyme+peel.jpg" height="640" width="403" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The<b> Marine Algae Smoothing Enzyme Peel</b> contains a host of fantastic ingredients to transform dull skin. This peel uses a Bioactive Enzyme with Algae, Canola Oil, Vitamin A, and Pro Vitamin B5. The Algae is a water binding agent which will help to lock moisture into your skin, fantastic for those of us who have skin a bit on the dry side! The Canola Oil helps to eradicate fine lines, blemishes and acne scarring. The Vitamin A helps to keep your skin looking young and the B5 as I mentioned before is fantastic for keeping the skin hydrated!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYixi7GTocxNXMlFWP-yev7DooaNNUhvFSzJz-cs35TBcSHBBmoIOM8-WQdo-GfcMsDMAAVmErd3VCoqLQf9PVR9oREkP3enm2olhzqOjHxk45TGDm6NbIE3FLsMJxdN2kNzBTdzSuVU/s1600/ziaja+rose+butter+micro+peel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYixi7GTocxNXMlFWP-yev7DooaNNUhvFSzJz-cs35TBcSHBBmoIOM8-WQdo-GfcMsDMAAVmErd3VCoqLQf9PVR9oREkP3enm2olhzqOjHxk45TGDm6NbIE3FLsMJxdN2kNzBTdzSuVU/s1600/ziaja+rose+butter+micro+peel.jpg" height="640" width="337" /></a></div>
<br />
The<b> Rose Butter Micro Peel</b>, is something a little different from the other two peels as it contains tiny micro exfoliating particles. Perfect for if and when the dead skin cells are being extra stubborn. This peel contains Rose Butter, which is known for its healing properties. Olive Oil EFA's (Essential Fatty Acids) Olive Oil attracts external moisture to the skin and because the fat composition of Olive Oil is very similar to that of human skin, it ensures that as it forms a breathable film to prevent the loss of internal moisture, it does not block the natural functions of our skin while doing so! Tres, Tres important, no?! This peel also contains Vitamin C, E, B3, B5, and B6, all excellent for keeping the skin looking and feeling hydrated, young, soft and supple!<br />
<br />
So, as you can see, I am suitably impressed and more than willing to eat my own words about High End Skincare being the only way to go. The Enzyme Peels are not just comparable to higher end ones, but better. The price point is so much more reasonable, there is more bang for your buck AND they're just generally freakin awesome!<br />
<br />
Before I hang up my Sciencey Education hat for the day, I just want to remind you of something incredibly important. When you use any sort of peel, it is imperative that you keep your skin moisturised, preferably with one that contains an SPF! After all, you've just gotten rid of a layer of skin, all be it a dead layer, but you don't want those UV ray's to penetrate only to do copious amounts of sun damage to it! So please, be as adventurous as you like with your new BFF The Enzyme Peel, but just make sure that you take the proper steps to ensure you keep it protected too!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on Ziaja's Enzyme Peels?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Have you tried any? </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Are you tempted?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Ziaja can be purchased online here - <a href="http://www.originalbeauty.ie/" target="_blank">www.originalbeauty.ie</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Follow Ziaja on Twitter - <a href="https://twitter.com/ziajaskincare" target="_blank">here.</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>On Facebook - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Ziajaskincareireland?fref=ts" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ziaja-Skincare-Ireland/152024941476645?fref=ts" target="_blank">here.</a></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-35887744183272609702014-03-31T08:38:00.000-07:002014-03-31T08:41:16.950-07:00Roger & Gallet - Rose and Fleur d'Osmanthus Hand & Nail CreamsHey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well! Roger & Gallet being a long time favourite brand of mine, tend to get me ridiculously excited with new releases to their permanent line. As you all know, I'm such a huge fan of their fragrance waters, shower gels, and body moisturisers, so when I discovered they were releasing a range of new hand and nail creams, I knew I had to have them!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYXLcN_cIjx-l5lqnHZdmESJuWx4GtUiY66hpkXY8HNh6_hux0mvRCWhgOZ4Z0OfePtPxaLO0lSaazwdQ_NF84FilqRB18lHBWgmgkFrXda5DklFrWAHwAGJcz-z4DGtTDZY4mUUTq5eQ/s1600/roger+and+gallet+rose+hand+cream+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYXLcN_cIjx-l5lqnHZdmESJuWx4GtUiY66hpkXY8HNh6_hux0mvRCWhgOZ4Z0OfePtPxaLO0lSaazwdQ_NF84FilqRB18lHBWgmgkFrXda5DklFrWAHwAGJcz-z4DGtTDZY4mUUTq5eQ/s1600/roger+and+gallet+rose+hand+cream+review.jpg" height="640" width="391" /></a></div>
<br />
First up we have the Rose Hand & Nail Cream. This little beauty contains Shea Butter and Rose Extract to moisturise, soften and soothe tired hands. I am in love with the scent of this product. It's an incredibly delicate scent, that smells like a thousand rose petals have been pressed together to make this cream. You really only need the smallest amount of product because it spreads and sinks in beautifully. It leaves your hands feeling incredibly soft and nurtured. I just love it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBeX2040lxYuFfL2OuMqCqsp-xSjt5mkr1BLMwnOKLsyVX2e8NluT-6Z9VcZhNV23JX3M4noI4OHQ6ZaMVI1xx52HDV9i_upo4x1Y0WCmRnLiPZ290cOzMWok0m9nor10nyrefsMXDssM/s1600/roger+and+gallet+fleur+dosmanthus+hand+cream+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBeX2040lxYuFfL2OuMqCqsp-xSjt5mkr1BLMwnOKLsyVX2e8NluT-6Z9VcZhNV23JX3M4noI4OHQ6ZaMVI1xx52HDV9i_upo4x1Y0WCmRnLiPZ290cOzMWok0m9nor10nyrefsMXDssM/s1600/roger+and+gallet+fleur+dosmanthus+hand+cream+review.jpg" height="640" width="399" /></a></div>
<br />
The Fleur d'Osmanthus Hand & Nail Cream is more heavily scented but no less wonderfully! It's fresh, it's zingy and the scent lingers long after the creams itself has sunk in. This also contains Shea Butter, but also Apricot Oil to nourish and protect your hands and nails. I can see myself using this during the Summer months to hydrate my hands. The scent just screams Summer to me, as with the original fragrance, which this stays true to.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbt2CVr37fZUtBlAPatQoKMpYGnLVyZu82j6P4sG_0uAbOfypNdsO4gPVdpgRFE7YKJfTFDn2tTl6yfOREc3B-zyGt2gz2Uk9KwrYGQtesRY2dq5cpK2V76uuOCZ14YEwCnD95mCLIh0I/s1600/roger+and+gallet+hand+and+nail+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbt2CVr37fZUtBlAPatQoKMpYGnLVyZu82j6P4sG_0uAbOfypNdsO4gPVdpgRFE7YKJfTFDn2tTl6yfOREc3B-zyGt2gz2Uk9KwrYGQtesRY2dq5cpK2V76uuOCZ14YEwCnD95mCLIh0I/s1600/roger+and+gallet+hand+and+nail+cream.jpg" height="640" width="477" /></a></div>
<br />
Both of these hand and nail creams that Roger & Gallet have given us are a real treat! I can only hope and pray that they expand the range and bring out some of my favourite scents to accompany these beauties!<br />
<br />
It was pointed out to me in my last R&G post, that nobody seems to love this brand more than me, and you know, that's true. Roger & Gallet never disappoint, I'm always so excited to try new products, and anything from the permanent line that I haven't gotten around to yet. There is something about Roger & Gallet, they just seem to release products that everyone can love and appreciate, and in turn, we have to appreciate R&G for that, because there are no filler products in their collection! Everything is just beautiful and that's why I love them so much! From packaging to the product it contains, it's absolute perfection!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on R&G's new Hand Creams?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Will you be trying them?!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-43408173114986513762014-03-24T10:12:00.000-07:002014-03-24T12:36:42.542-07:00Kerstin Florian - Hyaluronic SerumHey Ladies,<br>
<br>
I hope you're all well! Today's post is about a brand that is totally new to me 'Kerstin Florian'. I guess as a beauty blogger and as a gal who's approaching 30, I made the conscious decision a few years ago to take my skincare routine very seriously. But like everything else it's been a learning curve, and it's not something that you can just snap a book shut on and say 'I have nothing else to learn.' There are always new products, new ingredients, and new ways of phrasing ingredients to blindside you into thinking you need it. We need to be sensible, we need to know when to hold back, be more frugal, and also we need to know when to cash out, to splurge. Of course you can chop and change with what works for you, there's no manual. It can be increasingly difficult to find what works for you, especially if one product isn't working, it can have a knock on effect with the rest of your regime. Which is what happened to me a few months ago, I had the goods to kick my skin into gear, but I was missing a key ingredient, enter Kerstin Florian and her incredible Hyaluronic Serum.<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49FM7J-T_ab8_8voRHvugOgExuSnwIA4XtE_kic5qcL778ZQuldTa-CEUs_bUKE_EbJgt6xdtrFjlubgQsmj3MtXws1qvcjBBI2f21uciOoyzRHpNAI-Cqhwcjef83xXLxFIH52qcUrQ/s1600/Kerstin+Florian+Hyaluronic+Serum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49FM7J-T_ab8_8voRHvugOgExuSnwIA4XtE_kic5qcL778ZQuldTa-CEUs_bUKE_EbJgt6xdtrFjlubgQsmj3MtXws1qvcjBBI2f21uciOoyzRHpNAI-Cqhwcjef83xXLxFIH52qcUrQ/s1600/Kerstin+Florian+Hyaluronic+Serum.jpg" height="640" width="429"></a></div>
<br>
If you perhaps haven't heard of Hyaluronic Acid or HA if you will, (too much Breaking Bad) I cordially invite you to crawl out of the rock you may or may not have been living under, dust yourself off and pull up a chair yo. Hyaluronic Acid is something you want and need to know about, it attracts 50 times its weight in water, to help you achieve pretty incredible skin hydration. It also attracts and binds the moisture to our skins surface to help create and maintain softness and suppleness. Sounds pretty great for every skin type right?<br>
<br>
But that my friends is not all this serum does, it improves our skins tolerance to environmental irritations, and increases it's elasticity and firmness, perfect for protecting against the signs of ageing. It also contains a huge amount of antioxidants, vitamins, and nutrients for the skin.<br>
<br>
The key ingredients are of course our new BFF Hyaluronic Acid, Chamomile Extract to balance and sooth irritated skin, Bitter Orange, Lavender and Geranium Oils to scent the product so beautifully that you feel like you could be having a professional facial, not only that but the oils also help to promote healing and balance within the skin.<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigMJOCF7Alfxy9A6cLmFnliJbo8l4KKQR-weePiRQvSl5UTqHrHlya0a29s3AZIzrFuVTTE4HbLdnj_OVZOyO7LVZ47pcJZN8WchoMr5rlvjARtlBXdIV8LgixG1Pwfc-9DWWyqzXgtjg/s1600/kerstin+florian+hyaluronic+serum+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigMJOCF7Alfxy9A6cLmFnliJbo8l4KKQR-weePiRQvSl5UTqHrHlya0a29s3AZIzrFuVTTE4HbLdnj_OVZOyO7LVZ47pcJZN8WchoMr5rlvjARtlBXdIV8LgixG1Pwfc-9DWWyqzXgtjg/s1600/kerstin+florian+hyaluronic+serum+review.jpg" height="640" width="314"></a></div>
<br>
So, my final thoughts on this product? I love it, it's given my skin the ultimate kick it needed to ensure my other products did their jobs as effectively as possible. Now my skin is in the best condition it has ever been, it is a key part of a routine I feel I have finally gotten down. As I said skincare and your own skin are always going to be a learning curve, so get to know it, find out what it needs and what it responds to. Don't just assume that because your current routine isn't working that you need to bin all your products, add something new into the mix that you feel like your skin may be lacking, who knows what might happen? When I did, with Kerstin Florian's Hyaluronic Serum it was the missing piece of the puzzle!<br>
<br>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on Hyaluronic Acid?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Are you a fan?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-24432535587089039162014-03-21T10:05:00.000-07:002014-03-21T10:16:48.730-07:00Ziaja - SenSitive Skincare RangeHey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well. Today's review is about a new favourite brand of mine, Ziaja. I fell in love pretty quickly with their range of Micellar Waters which you can read a full review on <a href="http://dancinwithdisaster.blogspot.ie/2013/11/looking-for-alternative-to-boderma.html" target="_blank">here.</a> It didn't take long after that for me to be bitten by the curiosity bug.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoQJ-B4BVoOI8F8PFDkp8IHCkBYJQQxedKFcPMZUa3r5bhxb1OnMeqUJRgPiKH5boEW0AiVTazD-soKS7t7YOIto9l69sTMLoKfl84YCOfNuMhSA5mmp2aKCaoXWXlPpLf0LhPtDZNaA0/s1600/Ziaja+Sensitive+Skin+Range.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoQJ-B4BVoOI8F8PFDkp8IHCkBYJQQxedKFcPMZUa3r5bhxb1OnMeqUJRgPiKH5boEW0AiVTazD-soKS7t7YOIto9l69sTMLoKfl84YCOfNuMhSA5mmp2aKCaoXWXlPpLf0LhPtDZNaA0/s1600/Ziaja+Sensitive+Skin+Range.jpg" height="541" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I have to admit, I was quite the skincare snob before Ziaja came into my life. I was a firm believer in 'you get what you pay for', all that has been turned on it's ear. Ziaja was sort of the equivalent of a new boyfriend, you don't expect much, but then he pleasantly surprises you, and you feel guilty for under estimating him in the first place. So ladies, let me introduce you to my new boyfriend.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJ3qj2UYopBjR7NVddJOLvrGhTMqNU95nZV-5sMQXimqzdo2VtWAe_ikKcb-3Dqi0wX1RqSTu7xofp_m3PAqntd44H_GSlJigfmmwtDGFUT9pIVHe1AZFOGnNOv6ZFbxXDbUqyOKZUsU/s1600/ziaja+micellar+water+sensitive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJ3qj2UYopBjR7NVddJOLvrGhTMqNU95nZV-5sMQXimqzdo2VtWAe_ikKcb-3Dqi0wX1RqSTu7xofp_m3PAqntd44H_GSlJigfmmwtDGFUT9pIVHe1AZFOGnNOv6ZFbxXDbUqyOKZUsU/s1600/ziaja+micellar+water+sensitive.jpg" height="302" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The Ziaja SenSitive Micellar Water contains zero parabens, alcohol or perfume. Perfect for those with easily irritated skin, those who are prone to flare ups, if you have sensitive eyes, or you're a contact lens wearer, this has you covered. My skin can be quite dehydrated to the point of actually being sensitive, I found it perfect for tackling those issues.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Z1Z95NcghnI2eysD_STzkEG_3z9zcx7SIsh9kJid-7y7eiJKUcoB9Kpnec119IrBvgnn-vPpMEKjU7cxlhyphenhyphen8P584YBYGyivKSv6-X0SbT8ZsHSG7CuMdu2XC-pbcSVAaZlhdkRf0QTk/s1600/Ziaja+Sensitive+Creamy+Wash+Gel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Z1Z95NcghnI2eysD_STzkEG_3z9zcx7SIsh9kJid-7y7eiJKUcoB9Kpnec119IrBvgnn-vPpMEKjU7cxlhyphenhyphen8P584YBYGyivKSv6-X0SbT8ZsHSG7CuMdu2XC-pbcSVAaZlhdkRf0QTk/s1600/Ziaja+Sensitive+Creamy+Wash+Gel.jpg" height="640" width="501" /></a></div>
<br />
The SenSitive Skin Creamy Wash Gel for Face & Body has been a godsend to this house. My daughter suffers with sporadic cases of Eczema, and can be quite sensitive in other areas too, which as you can imagine, tends to cost a pretty penny when it does happen, in the past I would have gone for brands like Elave etc, but this does exactly the same thing, at a fraction of the price. It contains no soap, silicone's or parabens, which of course is a fantastic thing when it comes to little princess's with sensitive skin issues.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6lelwAnCSi9nPC0KwNTNJKQNljFZywly7qXQCL-X_dGm4Mmek4sBbCAC7CvZTVQwinEE7MybdmD0y1O-UJ_grXDmwOFzVPWjEjzlNUqnQl-r8OvYxmcjBhE0J2Z_i6TAf6U6cji9rX0/s1600/ziaja+sensitive+day+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6lelwAnCSi9nPC0KwNTNJKQNljFZywly7qXQCL-X_dGm4Mmek4sBbCAC7CvZTVQwinEE7MybdmD0y1O-UJ_grXDmwOFzVPWjEjzlNUqnQl-r8OvYxmcjBhE0J2Z_i6TAf6U6cji9rX0/s1600/ziaja+sensitive+day+cream.jpg" height="640" width="435" /></a></div>
<br />
The Soothing Day Cream with SPF20, is fantastic for so many reasons. I find it makes an excellent base for foundation, as well as providing you with your daily dose of SPF protection. It sinks in so quickly, it's light, airy and just leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth and protected!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXmF3QXej3IUgdvf6TZhZ5Y1AgjK_4GkRC5YBDhh3YdPneqqVsHvBWsUfSZiipuoWw-VxOLpLviVvkgwbVhCoPiKKzvdaDTCljLZZPdZZbf_SYLG5f70T8kYlBEltybqhut-MAUfVICY/s1600/ziaja+sensitive+firming+night+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXmF3QXej3IUgdvf6TZhZ5Y1AgjK_4GkRC5YBDhh3YdPneqqVsHvBWsUfSZiipuoWw-VxOLpLviVvkgwbVhCoPiKKzvdaDTCljLZZPdZZbf_SYLG5f70T8kYlBEltybqhut-MAUfVICY/s1600/ziaja+sensitive+firming+night+cream.jpg" height="640" width="447" /></a></div>
<br />
The second part of your dynamic skincare duo is the SenSitive Skin Firming Night Cream. Don't be perturbed by the fact that it's a 'firming' night cream, I think at this stage no matter what age we are, we all know that prevention is better than the cure right?! Again, like the day cream before it, this is free of nasties, and has a lovely emulsion texture to it, and really feels like it's doing your skin some good. It is one of my favourites from the range.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKaIhB3iwd-napgaT5UsBrLA2MqMOCt0RXMZCyNFgmuzWftg2y0FSS9-_s4mZJAAertukPaskPDTeqKSJXH7rMkVRNFc-ZhSQ8KDFLnso8POsLNP4tCS8l0RqLzvbwfZfcU5SCTZZspBQ/s1600/ziaja+sensitive+skin+enzyme+peel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKaIhB3iwd-napgaT5UsBrLA2MqMOCt0RXMZCyNFgmuzWftg2y0FSS9-_s4mZJAAertukPaskPDTeqKSJXH7rMkVRNFc-ZhSQ8KDFLnso8POsLNP4tCS8l0RqLzvbwfZfcU5SCTZZspBQ/s1600/ziaja+sensitive+skin+enzyme+peel.jpg" height="640" width="369" /></a></div>
<br />
Last but by no means least, is my stand out product from the collection. The SenSitive Skin Enzyme Peel. Again free from all nasty ingredients, and not just that, but this is one hell of a product for a number of reasons. This is comparable to a number of more expensive peels I have tried, The SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator €72, REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Peel €38, NeoStrata Glycolic Peel €35 to name but a few, this Ziaja SenSitive Skin Peel does exactly the same job as all of the above, and for a tiny fraction of the price compared to most products, coming in at €4.99. It really makes you question why you've been spending huge amounts of money on your skincare items when you have a brand offering you exactly the same if not a little better, at such a genuinely reasonable price! This product is just perfect, I'm currently trialing the other peels in the Ziaja range so keep an eye out for that review coming soon!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hoped you've enjoyed,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on the SenSitive Skin Range from Ziaja?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Any stand out products for you?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ziaja can be purchased online from <a href="http://www.originalbeauty.ie/" target="_blank">www.originalbeauty.ie</a></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can also follow Ziaja Ireland on:</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/ziajaskincare" target="_blank">here</a></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Ziajaskincareireland?fref=ts" target="_blank">here</a></span></b></div>
</div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-3028899306969335242014-03-19T08:19:00.000-07:002014-03-19T08:19:04.303-07:00The Body Shop - My Top Fragrances Hey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well! Today I wanted to share with you my all time favourite fragrances from The Body Shop. My love affair began almost 20 years ago, I was 9 and helping my mother with a raffle in myself and my brothers primary school. You could buy three envelopes for 50p (I'm feeling terribly old) in the hope that in one of those envelopes, you would find a ticket. So my brother found one, and his prize was a 'White Musk' hamper of goodies from The Body Shop, he of course was not overwhelmed with his win, so I offered to give him one months pocket money in exchange for the hamper. He happily accepted. I can still remember feeling so grown up, me and my White Musk hamper. At the age of 10, I felt so sophisticated with my very own bottle of perfume. I wore it every day, and I remember being so disappointed when it ran out. Now, as an adult it's a fragrance I ensure that will always remain in my collection.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1DaQfDITqGFOuj3cKCnRN9-UsPAZp_KcHnOmuTHe4mMvr2H593A-F19KQWLtTDvUAanN-BoiE9VEG2FkeV-SAuaVX7jWii2yB2_eiiWyJI9sff5WsUx9EC0jGBwiAQLz2gqo2hzRwMSM/s1600/The+Body+Shop+Top+Fragrances.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1DaQfDITqGFOuj3cKCnRN9-UsPAZp_KcHnOmuTHe4mMvr2H593A-F19KQWLtTDvUAanN-BoiE9VEG2FkeV-SAuaVX7jWii2yB2_eiiWyJI9sff5WsUx9EC0jGBwiAQLz2gqo2hzRwMSM/s1600/The+Body+Shop+Top+Fragrances.jpg" height="547" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Since then, as much as I love the original White Musk, my love of TBS fragrances has taken me down a few different roads, none straying too far from the White Musk family as you can see from the above picture, but in my opinion all just as beautiful in their own way, lets take a closer look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Uj0plSdBxYULDpKLBX41U5GZTlJmdu_MYIMVjlxwnPHXVXSzmaHlEvUTXSiy6eiCb6RpFDa6uBhpLjGgQJ_UeTjLC-z90oYTX4nGkQihOoIieYXTK9IEewhhAWTdQdAw6cECPILwdWA/s1600/the+body+shop+indian+night+jasmine+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Uj0plSdBxYULDpKLBX41U5GZTlJmdu_MYIMVjlxwnPHXVXSzmaHlEvUTXSiy6eiCb6RpFDa6uBhpLjGgQJ_UeTjLC-z90oYTX4nGkQihOoIieYXTK9IEewhhAWTdQdAw6cECPILwdWA/s1600/the+body+shop+indian+night+jasmine+review.jpg" height="640" width="415" /></a></div>
<br />
Let's start with Indian Night Jasmine, this used to be 'Neroli Jasmine', but it was renamed and repackaged not so long ago, I just adore the scent, I feel like this could potentially be quite a unisex fragrance because of the Jasmine and neroli it so beautifully encompasses. It's quite a sophisticated scent, very wearable and very distinguishable, once you know it, you could totally pick it out in a crowd. This is a fragrance mist, I do have the perfume but, I'll let you in on a little secret. I have great affection for the fragrance mists, as you can use them for so much more than perfume. My personal preference is to use them as a room spray, they stay true to the scent of perfume, and stick around for quite a while.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5L0WVeIXLn4SFtVoD21S800dWq5mpFMQFo6r1FQ_77BAHz2REKUqmA3qhyphenhyphenzETlZ6vg2a6RddUeQ4qCXvIbSizwos_EkWhLv87L46r7FHKel8cE45IKk3jBkfH4B4ZhHWmcDryB6DTS3g/s1600/the+body+shop+white+musk+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5L0WVeIXLn4SFtVoD21S800dWq5mpFMQFo6r1FQ_77BAHz2REKUqmA3qhyphenhyphenzETlZ6vg2a6RddUeQ4qCXvIbSizwos_EkWhLv87L46r7FHKel8cE45IKk3jBkfH4B4ZhHWmcDryB6DTS3g/s1600/the+body+shop+white+musk+review.jpg" height="640" width="381" /></a></div>
<br />
The White Musk fragrance mist, is just perfect. True to fragrance and true to form, this scent for the above mentioned reasons, I like to keep close by at all times. I use this as a room spray, in my Scentsy burner, as a wardrobe freshener, and I pop it on myself before bed to ensure sweet dreams and a blissful nights slumber. There is something incredibly special about this scent, and I know there are people out there who subscribe to the school of thought that white musk is white musk, it's not. For me The Body Shop White Musk, is the only one there is, it is just perfect.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLoz_J_oz6J2TCKGTHPNIITmERD1A5hXd185bjMKdfrI9rOIQ_JZrwGKV3537ztVc2o2LBnKoo61QiMnE1dqX3hQelNbXBmf1VxIWwf5-_8xHPwvS-bhSaTKZzECJn7eBHGF6FPCRMJg/s1600/IMG_4795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLoz_J_oz6J2TCKGTHPNIITmERD1A5hXd185bjMKdfrI9rOIQ_JZrwGKV3537ztVc2o2LBnKoo61QiMnE1dqX3hQelNbXBmf1VxIWwf5-_8xHPwvS-bhSaTKZzECJn7eBHGF6FPCRMJg/s1600/IMG_4795.jpg" height="640" width="477" /></a></div>
<br />
White Musk Libertine is just a beautiful all rounder, it has the original white musk scent, but it's sweetened up a little with what I can best describe as a mix of vanilla, whipped cream, almond rose, wood musk. I can also get the scent of honey in there when it dries down on me. I know that sounds pretty complex, but really all the notes mingle harmoniously to give you the most incredible day time, Spring/Summer scent. It is a very airy, very fairy scent that you can imagine catching in a cool breeze on a perfect Summer day. I love it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpYybNjpceygeYdwNVTQo4IXAAi3pj2ffVq-hUDZ2MDz3QkMQFqT87a1a009lUrlTNwyJhP9nQgTW1Me8VJ_kL8ZOm269wpjSF6beeFg3eCIiU-ImgEpwqlwdbCbXr2oKUwQH_wErWMw/s1600/the+body+shop+white+musk+smokey+rose+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpYybNjpceygeYdwNVTQo4IXAAi3pj2ffVq-hUDZ2MDz3QkMQFqT87a1a009lUrlTNwyJhP9nQgTW1Me8VJ_kL8ZOm269wpjSF6beeFg3eCIiU-ImgEpwqlwdbCbXr2oKUwQH_wErWMw/s1600/the+body+shop+white+musk+smokey+rose+review.jpg" height="640" width="499" /></a></div>
<br />
White Musk Smoky Rose is the newest addition to the family, and what an addition it is. To me White Musk Smoky Rose, this is a soft, spicy, smouldering powdered rose. I really love how there seems to be the scent of tobacco in there that mingles so perfectly with the other notes in this, it's almost bewitching. This is a perfect addition to the White Musk family. Kudos to the The Body Shop for this beauty!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you've enjoyed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your favourites from TBS?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-19281477087123039202014-03-17T09:43:00.001-07:002014-03-17T09:46:37.362-07:00Lancome - La Vie Est Belle 'L'Eau De Toilette'Hey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well! Another fragrance favourite from me today! Lancome's La Vie Est Belle 'L'Eau De Toilette'! It was excitement central for me when I heard about the imminent launch of this l'EDT version of the original! I honestly cannot contain my excitement so lets dive straight in!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0Ubr7PD5ng7CdLG9yx61gJFd769ih3MWwQLqXmgQOFrKnyeIJSZQ02ZVuL-LKorW_-RRrj6hiJCz1YZ6MgNez0CQajICHRGcU23hKrjQzboTDhsblbkqsNGWpLcKuYujtZ3Bf0mw84Y/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+l'edt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0Ubr7PD5ng7CdLG9yx61gJFd769ih3MWwQLqXmgQOFrKnyeIJSZQ02ZVuL-LKorW_-RRrj6hiJCz1YZ6MgNez0CQajICHRGcU23hKrjQzboTDhsblbkqsNGWpLcKuYujtZ3Bf0mw84Y/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+l'edt.jpg" height="640" width="529" /></a></div>
<br />
A reinterpretation of the original at it's finest, the fragrance now embodies magnolia essence, which freshens the original iris pallida, white flowers absolute and patchouli. For those of you who are as much in love with the EDP as I am, La Vie Est Belle l'EDT also has the the old reliable notes that that make the original so special. Vanilla, praline, sugar, tonka bean and that delicious almond sweetness.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3MAi5ljf6TQtQakKy6VFU8W7SmxtbivKwc-OkRixh84Nr6Fuer86OevjWQbGK_rgWExo029-iL_Yz23A03rAh9efhepu2e6HeeJHqRhlAYPUC6foLACtHGEf-oUTfDJYPp1H_YqpyYf4/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+edt+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3MAi5ljf6TQtQakKy6VFU8W7SmxtbivKwc-OkRixh84Nr6Fuer86OevjWQbGK_rgWExo029-iL_Yz23A03rAh9efhepu2e6HeeJHqRhlAYPUC6foLACtHGEf-oUTfDJYPp1H_YqpyYf4/s1600/la+vie+est+belle+edt+review.jpg" height="640" width="417" /></a></div>
<br />
Coming from someone who is on her fourth bottle of the original since it's release, I have to say, I am so grateful that Lancome did not change the visual aesthetic of the bottle. There is such an incredible story behind it, which you can read in full as part of my review of the EDP <a href="http://dancinwithdisaster.blogspot.ie/2013/06/la-vie-est-belle-lancome.html" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
<br />
I think what makes this fragrance stand apart from the original, is the fact that it is more daytime wearable. The original to me would suit evening wear as it is quite complex, and depending on your personal preference maybe just a tad overpowering for daytime wear. The magnolia adds that fresh oomph to it, which would also make it a very agreeable for Spring/Summer wear. All in all, I would have to say, don't dismiss it if you think 'Oh, I know what the original scent smells like, I don't need to smell it.' because honestly, I think you'll be very pleasantly surprised! I think Lancome have done a great thing here, making the fragrance almost more accessible for those who maybe thought the original was a bit too strong of heart for them. I know I for one will certainly appreciate having the choice!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on Lancome launching an EDT of the original?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Will you be tempted to have a sniff?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea </b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-2935702675512856112014-03-12T08:59:00.000-07:002014-03-12T09:01:48.551-07:00L'Oreal Mythic Oil Hair PerfumeHey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well! My first thoughts when I heard about today's product from L'Oreal was 'A perfume for your hair, as well as your body?! Finally!' L'Oreal's Mythic Oil Hair Perfume is the first of its kind from the brand, and my my my, what a beauty it is!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbIVYpmXRMa9YBQ6kd6RYjYhvbd6kL0M48G6uxX_gphlwztMuE3EHFRQ0waHLOBQwRifaXlo6-TcKbRz78QD86ZsZCxyFUzCl9CPxnyfTpLokkc6BcUXxTAJC-n2c-i9D_nV6t7BL34Q/s1600/loreal+mythic+oil+perfume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbIVYpmXRMa9YBQ6kd6RYjYhvbd6kL0M48G6uxX_gphlwztMuE3EHFRQ0waHLOBQwRifaXlo6-TcKbRz78QD86ZsZCxyFUzCl9CPxnyfTpLokkc6BcUXxTAJC-n2c-i9D_nV6t7BL34Q/s1600/loreal+mythic+oil+perfume.jpg" height="640" width="411" /></a></div>
<br />
The packaging is incredibly sleek and elegant, the black and gold bottle with geometric design printed in gold on the back, which can be seen when the bottle is at a window or placed in front of light is one of the little details of design I really appreciate about the packaging, it makes it feel like a very luxe product!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Mnc_gTPb5drLTyxQqTVEhbxf2Inzv9QIrY_CG8mk9TfBB2tmb6eT07iXodSLQKthjaOshyLTxrsl5AJMjaHlICL2vLfnpqWBNBAfWqa7ecZAg2zhYNvYgXQ29WZm4p3SvbXHK-s-HnY/s1600/mythic+oil+perfume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Mnc_gTPb5drLTyxQqTVEhbxf2Inzv9QIrY_CG8mk9TfBB2tmb6eT07iXodSLQKthjaOshyLTxrsl5AJMjaHlICL2vLfnpqWBNBAfWqa7ecZAg2zhYNvYgXQ29WZm4p3SvbXHK-s-HnY/s1600/mythic+oil+perfume.jpg" height="640" width="453" /></a></div>
<br />
The fragrance oil itself is infused with mandarin, violet, jasmine, creamy vanilla and caramel. The mixture of the woody floral scent makes this one of those fragrances that totally envelopes you and pulls others in. The Argan and Sunflower oil which are of course shine enhancing. So not only are you making your hair smell absolutely beautiful, you're also refreshing your hair and adding shine!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7WDOH1YbgxPjB2TIm2HXvfuDbwD5tdY9Njbc7J0mUk-6KcdcZLpoIH3g3oNqJ1M2MVM3NJK-VtIJkxSDbUXrh0fhvgeV65Mphvjfun7SBJD4Ngubjh1w1AHrfXR7zcFUMbkw_efrBJE4/s1600/mythic+oil+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7WDOH1YbgxPjB2TIm2HXvfuDbwD5tdY9Njbc7J0mUk-6KcdcZLpoIH3g3oNqJ1M2MVM3NJK-VtIJkxSDbUXrh0fhvgeV65Mphvjfun7SBJD4Ngubjh1w1AHrfXR7zcFUMbkw_efrBJE4/s1600/mythic+oil+review.jpg" height="640" width="415" /></a></div>
The thing I love about this is that with it being silicone free and having such a lightweight formula, you can use it as much as you want without making your hair feel greasy or weighed down. Unlike normal perfumes, it wont dry out your hair either so you can use it without worrying that you're doing any damage. I just love this product, I love the scent, the fact that my hair smells incredible (even if I do say so myself). It's really peaked my interest to try the rest of the Mythic Line from L'Oreal. I cannot stress just how much I am enjoying this!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are your thoughts on hair perfume?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Will you be trying this?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea</b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-89377800961285281992014-03-11T08:34:00.001-07:002014-03-11T08:34:50.508-07:00A New Twist on an Old Favourite: Roger & Gallet Gingembre RougeHey Ladies,<br />
<br />
I hope you're all well. Today's post is a new offering from a brand favourite of mine, Roger & Gallet. It's no secret to you all that I just adore R&G, I really believe that when it comes to the fine art of fragrance, they can do no wrong. Gingembre Rouge is no exception!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpZ6-07_a1wS9VAuysLjDPy0V1GtxAJRP19nyfWBQJrQGb2KVZa5eDuVgn5OVTYbgHtYWGYDQ4rj_GFiar9-45YoEvKVteLuGBKo8Yy_46d244Ym6KPLIYATQX2W_IGVpQ4F6d87u2-I/s1600/gingembre+rouge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpZ6-07_a1wS9VAuysLjDPy0V1GtxAJRP19nyfWBQJrQGb2KVZa5eDuVgn5OVTYbgHtYWGYDQ4rj_GFiar9-45YoEvKVteLuGBKo8Yy_46d244Ym6KPLIYATQX2W_IGVpQ4F6d87u2-I/s1600/gingembre+rouge.jpg" height="640" width="429" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's hard to believe that the original Gingembre has been around for eleven years. Gingembre is definitely one of my all time favourites from the Roger & Gallet range. I cannot count the amount of people I have bought it for as a gift or recommended to someone. Everyone seems to love it and with good reason! When I heard that R&G were launching a new version of an old favourite, I just new I'd love it, no questions asked, and happily, I do!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjL4DOozdSlaKWXS7VJ1S98UtPxgulI45ZoGlxHIclZGH5sDrHRyDL65rU-2bxPr4l6i5ZOhOnX-e3vwNudG-GbyMzW05XArzukQeKsjMuhGIXMtwk-o47Ry24zAJpbBFrir0H4Clkt3w/s1600/Gingembre+Rouge+R&G.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjL4DOozdSlaKWXS7VJ1S98UtPxgulI45ZoGlxHIclZGH5sDrHRyDL65rU-2bxPr4l6i5ZOhOnX-e3vwNudG-GbyMzW05XArzukQeKsjMuhGIXMtwk-o47Ry24zAJpbBFrir0H4Clkt3w/s1600/Gingembre+Rouge+R&G.jpg" height="640" width="559" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
To me, if the original Gingembre and Gucci II EDP had a baby, you would get Gingembre Rouge. Not a bad combo right? Top notes in this beauty are ginger, mandarin, and pomegranate, middle notes of litchi, mandarin blossom, and ginger blossom, and base notes of cedar, candied ginger and white musk. So you have the holy trinity of ginger, mixed with some fabulously citrus notes, and what you get is the most exquisite explosion on your sense of smell, which allows you to envision yourself strolling aimlessly through a spice souk on a warm day somewhere far far away. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidiyO-866qAY4oruCIbdD-YDRpfXfTmAc83_UT7X2fM3zWBD9CBsrp1sJllGG9Ss5_DxXYacFDZe4GrJkZslrEQauzxaOfZEdMFbY-E7B-LVcOtvZgjqpp7bCRypsmlYCpvPz2mz1PwqQ/s1600/gingembre+rouge+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidiyO-866qAY4oruCIbdD-YDRpfXfTmAc83_UT7X2fM3zWBD9CBsrp1sJllGG9Ss5_DxXYacFDZe4GrJkZslrEQauzxaOfZEdMFbY-E7B-LVcOtvZgjqpp7bCRypsmlYCpvPz2mz1PwqQ/s1600/gingembre+rouge+review.jpg" height="640" width="511" /></a></div>
<br />
Really what Roger & Gallet have given us here, is a perfect re-invention of the original, which I was convinced, could not be improved upon. Of course I still love the original, it will always have a special place in my heart, but there is something so uniquely beautiful about this scent which allows you to appreciate that sometimes, perfection can be improved upon. Roger & Gallet are consistent in giving us these beautiful fragrances, there really is something for everyone, a tried and true testament to that is the fact that my father, who has never worn or owned an aftershave in his life, is now an R&G convert, shower gels and fragrances. I know I've said it before but this is one of the only brands that I truly look forward to seeing whats coming next. It never disappoints, and that is a real rarity in the ever expanding fragrance industry. Kudos Roger & Gallet, Kudos!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Have you tried Gingembre Rouge yet?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What is you R&G favourite?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let e know below,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea </b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1090474962738870685.post-69710592226949278502014-03-10T09:10:00.000-07:002014-03-10T09:12:30.628-07:00NUXE Prodigieux Le ParfumHey ladies,<br />
<br />
So after a little break, I'm back! Before we jump into today's post, I just wanted to thank you all for you're amazing words and support, it meant the world to me. If you missed it, you can look <a href="http://www.dancinwithdisaster.blogspot.ie/2014/01/happiness-can-be-found-in-darkest-of.html" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
<br />
So a few weeks ago I attended the launch of a new fragrance by one of my all time favourite brands NUXE.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHew6BFEKAN9m2E7yDKQoQOud2TroWBPNHU2hKYKXU9Qi3i5j0PdicsG0Kqb9L47Fe9I9EPjFytv-OLEwfj6eWeIk0nwGyLRlWYN6hKRKQZgbNrTPnYH466IM8yuAn2BGYkdUMbfpVeg/s1600/NUXE+Prodigieux.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHew6BFEKAN9m2E7yDKQoQOud2TroWBPNHU2hKYKXU9Qi3i5j0PdicsG0Kqb9L47Fe9I9EPjFytv-OLEwfj6eWeIk0nwGyLRlWYN6hKRKQZgbNrTPnYH466IM8yuAn2BGYkdUMbfpVeg/s1600/NUXE+Prodigieux.jpg" height="640" width="429" /></a></div>
<br />
NUXE have taken their infamous Huile Prodigieuse and created the perfect fragrance in its image. The Prodigieuse Oil has a massive cult following, so when I found out that it was to become a perfume, I had high hopes, and NUXE never being one to disappoint have knocked it out of the park. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjsYOXLtLboVEhxpolE_LLbjRy8SnFM8AUbMA-tbsRDXJBKi4TPKuEWdlL_v3FQ5VzwLzNqdOHdy7n9tN1VTlt6SepotyjeuFMoZrsSftG7u76Coa_jUelDd9UmFXmSKLyUcNyN1KWfzA/s1600/NUXE+Prodigieux+Perfume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjsYOXLtLboVEhxpolE_LLbjRy8SnFM8AUbMA-tbsRDXJBKi4TPKuEWdlL_v3FQ5VzwLzNqdOHdy7n9tN1VTlt6SepotyjeuFMoZrsSftG7u76Coa_jUelDd9UmFXmSKLyUcNyN1KWfzA/s1600/NUXE+Prodigieux+Perfume.jpg" height="640" width="435" /></a></div>
<br />
This fragrance is absolutely an 'Aundrea will love' scent, it is described heavily as a floral scent, but to me, there is so much more depth to it than that. Top notes are orange blossom and bergamot, middle notes of rose, magnolia and gardenia, and base notes of vanilla, coconut milk and pebbles.<br />
<br />
I feel like a lot of people will put this in the Summer fragrance category, and to some extent it is, but for me I can really picture myself wearing this on a cold Winter's night in front of the fire. When you first spray it, you're very much hit with the citrus notes, but as the fragrance dries down, it becomes more complex, notes of vanilla and bergamot become more apparent, the citrus is still there but not as strong, it really is just a perfect all rounder.<br />
<br />
I think NUXE have done a truly incredible job with this perfume. Whenever I wear this scent (which I have been doing pretty frequently) everyone compliments it, which is fantastic because it's an excuse to send them to our local NUXE counter with a mile long list of products they just have to try!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's it for now ladies,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I hope you enjoyed!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Have you tried the new fragrance from NUXE?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Or have I tempted you into having a sniff?!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Tell me some of your must have NUXE products!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As always, let me know below!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Until next time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>xoxo</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Aundrea </b></div>
Drea In Real Lifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05222089946710607044noreply@blogger.com6