A Little Bit of Me

February in Photos so far...

2012-02-13T00:27:00.001+10:30

I still have all my photos from January to share, but I have been lazy and will get to them another day. For now here is February...

1st February: Your View
My view sitting with Vanaema at the hospital

2nd February: Words

I check Google reader most days, if not a couple of times a day

3rd February: Hands
The sweet hands of my niece J- today she was showing me her surprise face

4th February: A Stranger

Quickly snapped in Woolies at Marion on a busy Saturday afternoon

5th February: 10am
Ready for the gym...went to my first Body Balance class- I did not enjoy it

6th February: Dinner
Chilli Plum Stirfry- Monday night dinner at Tatum's

8th February: Sun
My shadow in the sun

9th February: Front Door
We never use this door, the lock is too annoying...and it currently has two broken panes, both created by me and moving furniture

10th February: Self Portrait
A side profile, I love the colour of my hair at the moment. Seriously lucky to have a hairdresser in the house!

11th February: Makes you happy
Vintage crockery and silly valentine day candy, a winning combination for sure

12th February: Inside your closet
In the closet in the spare room are the bright, funky creations for Green Dandelion. My wardrobe is on the floor

February 7th seems to have gone walk about... strange.
All my photo prompts are the inspiration of Fat Mum Slim- there are so many people playing along too, are you??
xx Lauren

My funeral songs

2012-02-11T16:33:00.000+10:30

Another week without a blog post, and another week of me being a grumpy cow. Its getting a bit monotonous really- the emotional roller coaster I've been on is really starting to get to me, but I am determined to pull myself out of this funk and get over the fact that all I really want to do is sleep for an eternity.
So what better way to do that than share my funeral songs!
The amazing Eden has set the challenge as her Fresh Horse Brigade and seeing as it has actually been something on my mind the last couple of weeks the songs were easy to come up with.

I have very specific ideas about my funeral and they include that there are to be NO carnations-I hate the buggers, lots of colour- please leave the black at home, I want to be cremated and my ashes scattered out at sea. Afterwards I want everyone to eat really good cake, with really good coffee...and then go to the pub. I want my remembrance card thingy to be a bit modern...no old fashioned printing for this chick and most of all I want music! and lots of it!

Greenday- Good Riddance (Time of your life)
Not only are Greenday one of my favourite bands, but I think Good Riddance is a perfect funeral song...and I saw these guys in concert- it was freaking AMAZING!!

Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road
Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go
So make the best of this test, and don't ask why
It's not a question, but a lesson learned in time

It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right.
I hope you had the time of your life.

Foo Fighters- Ballad of the Beasonsfield Miners
Another of my favourite bands, the connection to Australia through this ballad and I love the quietness of it. My second pick would be for Everlong to be played.

Spice Girls- Wannabe
An ode to my varied and at times completely dodgy music taste, I insist that everyone gets up and has a boogy to the Spice Girls. My other song of choice would be Karma Chameleon by Culture Club...now that one really is dodgy!!

If you want my future, forget my past
If you wanna get with me, better make it fast
Now don't go wasting my precious time
Get your act together we could be just fine

What would you like to be played at your funeral??

Go on over and check out all the replies on Edenland.

xx Lauren

Friday Pinterest Finds: Some Time

2012-02-03T22:20:00.001+10:30

Tonight I pulled a blog post I published this afternoon.
It's the first time I've done something like that and the main reason was because I was afraid of people taking me the wrong way, or being offended.
Silly isn't it. Especially when the oxford dictionary defines a blog as "a personal website...which an individual records opinions..." {source} I wish I had the courage to not worry about what other people think, courage to make a statement and standby it, I suppose that is something that might come with age and wisdom?

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This week has been far more draining than usual, my grandmother being admitted to hospital with heart issues, very little sleep and trying to find some direction in my increasingly unhappy work life, the thought of escaping to a beautiful place to just sit and think sounds like utter bliss.

What are you up to this weekend?? Do you somewhere you like to escape to??
xx Lauren

Tunes on a Thursday

2012-02-02T17:51:00.000+10:30

Number of blog posts sitting in my draft folder from the last week: 5
Number of blog posts actually published: 1 (well 2 if you count this one)

Another week passing and I've struggled to adequately and eloquently put into words everything I have been processing, the decisions I have been trying to make, the things I have been stressing over- both big and small, but what I will share with you is this song from Grouplove, Tongue Tied.

"Slumber party; pillow fight
My eyes on your eyes
Like Peter Pan up in the sky
My best friend's house tonight
Let's bump the beat till beddy-bye"

I'm taking myself off for a long overdue early night, only one more shift before four much needed days off...I seriously can.not.wait!!
xx Lauren

Today

2012-01-29T20:21:00.005+10:30

Outside my window...warm and a bit sticky

I am thinking...that I its only five days till next weekend...I'm abit over work at the moment

I am thankful for... sisters and friends who stick with me

I am wearing... shorts, black singlet, french connection top and hat (super dodgy hair tonight)

I am going to...go to bed very soon

I am currently reading... We need to talk about Kevin by Lionel Shriver

I am hoping... that I can Tough Mudder in September :)

On my mind...health, fitness, my future...just the small stuff really!

From the kitchen... water, water and more water...so thirsty today

Around the house... in darkness...I need to go to bed!
One of my favorite things... boxing!! and the fact that Tatum and Nat come to gym now too

A few plans for the rest of the week... work, gym (nothing different there) and sorting out my clothes that are too big ready to sell on eBay

One photo to share..

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Here's to a happy week,

xx Lauren

Friday Pinterest Finds: Dreams

2012-01-20T15:56:00.000+10:30

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Dream BIG!!

xx Lauren

Smashing It

2012-01-19T23:03:00.000+10:30

I am a person who second guesses herself constantly. Who is never confident that I am doing the right thing, although I always, always, always try make it appear that I am.
Tonight I am feeling beyond proud of myself after smashing a challenge at the gym that I internally believed I would never come close to completing in a decent time, let alone have the fastest time on the board. Its not the competition factor that's got me, its the indicator and realisation that I am fitter, I am healthier and I am actually more amazing that I have ever thought.
Some serious self-belief happening today! Such a timely lesson to learn.

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I need to have more confidence in my ability to do things and know that I really can do them. I need to be strong in my convictions that I will smash my goals.
I have the strength, the courage, the ability and now I WILL have the confidence to make them happen!

My new mantra Confidence, Confidence, Confidence!

xx Lauren

Dedication to my ex- Lloyd ft Andre 3000 & Lil Wayne

2012-01-19T08:50:00.003+10:30

How on earth is it Thursday again?? I have pretty much been a grumpy bitch for the last week- well at least from Saturday onwards, with a persisting migraine type headache and work being particuarly sucky. Anyway a visit to the chiropractor late yesterday and a good nights sleep means I am feeling marginally better...and a little less bitchy.

This week I am loving "Dedication to my Ex" by Lloyd featuring Andre 300 & Lil Wayne. The "real" lyrics are pretty dirty but the beat is good and that is all I care about this week.

What are you listening to this week?

xx Lauren

What the future holds

2012-01-15T13:07:00.000+10:30

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Ive been thinking a lot lately about what I want to do with my future. What I want to spend my life doing. It frustrates me to know end that at 25 I still haven't found the 'thing' that makes me happy, the 'thing' that I want to do to pay the bills, the 'thing' to do for a living.

I'm not lacking in ideas for future occupations...over the years I have considered teaching in many forms- primary, high school, English, history, art, drama, home economics or special education with my current uni study reflecting pretty much all those areas. I have thought about cheffing and did some work experience in a pub kitchen, shoe making, journalism and specifically radio journalism, I travelled all the way to Mount Isa to do some work experience with radio ABC (and visit Tatum and the Landlord). I've thought about counselling, hotel management and nursing.

Just recently, as in the last few days, I've began to think about a new career path and I'm wondering if maybe I might have finally found something that will make me happy.

Health and fitness is what my life is all about at the moment and whilst it seems a bit cliched, in the I've lost weight, now I'll be a personal trainer way, I think I may have stumbled upon a field of work that may just make me happy. As well as making it easier to continue breathing this new lifestyle I have created for myself and help people in the process.

Time to start believing impossible things and making them happen!
xx Lauren

The Black Keys- Lonely Boy

2012-01-12T19:30:00.000+10:30

Listening to this one on repeat a lot at the moment- an awesome beat and a kickarse video clip to match it, it makes me want to get up and dance...please tell me it does the same to you!

"Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting
Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting
I’m a lonely boy
I’m a lonely boy
Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting"

What are you listening to right now??

xx Lauren

Moving my feet- the first jog

2012-01-07T17:29:00.001+10:30

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I did it!
For the very first time in my life I actually continually jogged/walked/shuffled along for 45 minutes.
I felt like dying, I think at one point I was sweating out my eyes so much they were crying, everything hurt, I could not breath BUT I did it...I made it to the end and was still alive.
I never realised how good it feels to run, it felt wonderful to actually be doing it rather than just saying "I want to run". Seems my personal trainer actually listens to me as I chat away (talk crap) each session- it was thanks to him I was out there today, he ran with me, pushing and encouraging the whole way.
I'm feeling pretty damn proud of myself tonight...and also completely shattered.
Now to keep jogging and turn it into a long, satisfying run!

xx Lauren

Pinterest Friday Finds- Regret

2012-01-06T19:20:00.000+10:30

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One of my goals for 2012 is to stop over thinking and worrying about what people may think of me. I want to enjoy every moment, have fun and be brave!

Have a fantastic weekend,
xx Lauren

A Thursday Post

2012-01-05T21:00:00.000+10:30

I've been thinking all day about what to post on the blog tonight. So much to write about, so many ideas, thoughts and opinions buzzing through my little brain at the moment that I'm struggling to cohesively put together the words.

So I thought I would share this video...that my cousin shared with me earlier in the week.

Its a motivational one.

For the most part I think motivation is a bit of a crock...I'm a believer in you can not, and will not do something until you get off your arse and do it yourself. No lightning bolt is going to come crashing out of the sky and motivate you to clean the house, or exercise , or finish the reading for uni...the first step is all up to you!

So in saying (ranting) that I'm currently looking for some inspiration to keep myself moving at a high and fast pace...I've set myself a massive goal for July, it is totally achievable, but I'm figuring some extra push doesn't hurt!

For me the words speaking the loudest in the video are:

"It ain't about how hard you hit, its about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward"

I think it can be applied in so many instances, not just the exercise/fighting arena. What do you think??

So my question to you today...do you know any good inspiration videos or quotes...things to that help you get shit done right now?!

xx Lauren

Superstitious Minds

2012-01-03T12:48:00.003+10:30

Last week the mirror fell out of my car and cracked clean in two.

I picked it up off the road and super glued it back together, blu-taking it into place until I work out where to go buy a new one from.
After telling a friend about my mishap she bought up the fact I was now supposed to be subjected to 7 years bad luck, and in the same breath she reminded me of another superstition about whatever you do on the first day of the year you will be doing for the rest of the year.
I am not a believer of superstitions,walking under ladders, opening an umbrella inside, giving a purse without any money inside, giving knives as a present, all seem pretty silly to me...but at the same time I'd prefer not to have 7 years of bad luck and my year has begun pretty quietly with work, super hot temperatures outside and not a great deal of sleep so I'm really hoping that one isn't true!

What do you think?? Are you superstitions?? Do you know of any silly superstitions??
xx Lauren

#JANphotoaday - Day One

2012-01-01T15:52:00.000+10:30

The lovely Chantelle from Fat Mum Slim has created photo a day challenge to kick off the new year.

Seems like pretty good inspiration to remember the beginning of 2012, so armed with my trusty HTC I'm going to play along and will post the daily pics on twitter & on occasions facebook too, with some random blog posts for good measure.

Today really is the worst day for a selfie...and I have to admit that I considered using my pic from yesterday afternoon, but that's not playing the game. So here I am...unbelievably tired, hot and generally not looking my best...

Day 1 : Me

Are you going to play along too??
Share your photos with me!
Happy 1st of January,
xx Lauren

The closing moments of 2011

2011-12-31T19:44:00.000+10:30

Suddenly its the final hours of 2011, so I'd better finish the year up with some reflections.

A perfect end to 2011...sharing Moet with a wonderful friend

What an amazing year I have had, I've heard lots of people saying how glad they are that the year is ending having been through lots of crappy times- but I have been so incredibly lucky, I feel like I am ending the year on a high.
I've been thinking a lot today about some of my highlights of the year...

Deciding in February to become fit and healthy
Brisbane trip with Nat & Tatum
Becoming the very best of friends with my little sister...she totally rocks <3
Melbourne trip with Tatum for Blogopolis
Getting all distinctions at Uni
Visiting Sydney for the very first time
Going back to Sydney in December
Escape2Create retreat
Losing 40 kilos
Buying clothes from a 'real' shop...not "plus sized" fashion
Ending toxic relationships & spending time with people that make me happy
Melbourne weekend with the College girls
Loving exercise and the challenges it gives me
Building new amazing friendships
Learning that I am not invincible and need to look after my mental health too
Embracing red lipstick and short hair

NYE 2010

NYE 2011

2012 is already looking like an exciting year and I can not wait to get in and enjoy it!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
I hope your coming year is as exciting as mine is going to be,
Now go celebrate...I'm off to bed and will be at work at 4am ready to play cards with all the over partied, drunk peeps of Adelaide :)
xx Lauren

Pinterest Friday Find: Pride

2011-12-30T19:32:00.002+10:30

I've been in my current job for 6 years and 7 months. I have always tried my best and thought that I was pretty good at it. Recently I applied, for the 6th time, for a promotion to Supervisor and was knocked back...again.
Missing out on the promotion I can handle- ultimately I think the job is highly underpaid for the potential responsibilty it can hold- but what has really effected me is the massive punch in the heart at my pride. I feel like crap...a bit like I really mustn't be any good at my job, even though I do it to the very best of my ability...and time and time again people that get the promotion are no better than I am.
Perhaps it is the writing on the wall for me...I am better than just working there, I have much better plans and things to do in my life and this was a very big kick up the arse to get these plans a-moving.
5 months till I'm eligiable for pro-rata.
8 months till I give notice.
10 months till I'm travelling into the great unknown.

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Good times are ahead...and my skills are going to be put to much better use!
Happy Friday,
xx Lauren

Thankful for new friends

2011-12-29T20:15:00.001+10:30

2011 has been a pretty big year for me.
I've travelled a reasonable amount, read some stuff, practiced sewing and making friends with the sewing machine, studied plenty, formed a solid friendship with the gym and changed my life for the better, more than I would have ever thought.
I am happy with who I am.

One of my highlights of this year has been 3 fantastic friendships I've made. Each one has been completely unexpected but then I suppose what friendship is ever predictable?

Nat has seriously been a god send! Super fun, creative, inspiring- so many random things we have in common and everything just seems to click together. I feel very lucky that Nat works some bizarre hours so that I can drop in and annoy her any time I want, and for some reason she puts up with me. Another case of the world is such a small place...Nat grew up in the same town I did too.

Ahh the beautiful Kate.
I can not put enough words to how grateful I am to this woman. She has taught me so much, encouraged me to no end and being in Kate's company is just peaceful. Massive highlight for the year was the recent plane flight home from Sydney sitting next to Kate- so many problems of the world can be solved by the two of us I'm sure!

My last amazing friend, I actually feel pretty lucky that I'm calling him that. Stefan is my trainer at the gym- I pay him plenty of money and he makes me work freaking hard...but at some point in the last 9 months it got better than the trainer/client relationship. I happily accredit Stef to some of my commitment to the gym- he helps keep me motivated, he proves to me that I am fitter, stronger, tougher than I would've ever believed. He manages to make me smile most of the time and most of all the 45+ minutes we spend training fly by because I'm having a good time. I can not thank him enough for helping me change me life for the better.
If you are in Adelaide and looking for a personal trainer I highly, highly recommend Stefan- the guy knows his stuff and is really good at it too! Let me know and I'll happily hook you up :)

I am very lucky to have lots of people in my life and I'm so happy that these three people are apart of my life now too.
xxx Lauren

Pinterest Friday Finds- The Truth

2011-12-23T18:05:00.002+10:30

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This time last year I was in denial about how unhappy I was.
This year I really really love who I am becoming/the person I am creating and that makes me kinda proud.

Happy Friday,
xx Lauren

John Lennon- Happy Xmas (War is Over)

2011-12-22T18:20:00.002+10:30

Its only a few more sleeps until christmas day and it seems fitting to share a christmas carol with you. So many to choose from, but Tatum reminded me of the beauty of Happy Xmas a few weeks ago and I wanted to remind you of it too.

And so this is Christmas, I hope you have fun,
The near and the dear ones, the old and the young.

A very merry Christmas and a happy New Year
Let's hope it's a good one without any fears.

I am so looking forward to sharing christmas day with my family in Port Lincoln- relaxing, eating and drinking lots of 'hophops!'
Whats one your favourite christmas carols??

xx Lauren

12wbt finale disappointment

2011-12-21T15:10:00.000+10:30

A couple of weekends ago I flew to Sydney for the finale workout and party for the Michelle Bridges 12 Week Body Transformation.
I can not speak highly enough about her program, it takes a straight forward, no nonsense approach that to lose weight you need to eat restricted calories and exercise hard. She offers a fantastic range of menu plans and so many different exercise plans that there is no excuse not to give it a go, the mind setting lessons that she teaches through out the twelve weeks are so invaluable to creating a healthy, happy life.
In saying that I was so disappointed in my experience in Sydney.
From hearing about previous experiences the workout has been, fun, exciting, challenging and most of all different!
A body attack class with 1000+ people in the park was not what I was hoping for. It doesn't help that I'm not a fan of body attack...I think that 'running man' should run far away, it just wasn't the experience I had hoped for.
The party was also something left to be desired...the lack of food was disappointing, along with the fact that we had to line up at a bain marie to get it, after the speeches Michelle Bridges was nowhere to be seen. I had the feeling that the whole she-bang was about the $$ rather than celebrating every ones hard work and successes. It also sat strangely with me that there was an open bar...seems wrong at a health and fitness party, in saying that I certainly had my fair share of champagne- figured I needed to get my $75 worth!

Aside for the 12WBT disappointments it was lovely to get away. Exploring Sydney some more, checking out the markets at the Rocks and spending time with Kate & Jane and meeting Karen made for a brilliant time.
The highlight for the weekend was the 2 hour plane flight home, Kate and I chatted for the whole entire way- despite my plans of reading and Kate's plans of sleeping. Its awesome to get to know her better.
I have decided not to do another round of the 12wbt- I was undecided before I went away, but the disappointments certainly helped me make my decision. I have learnt everything that I think I'm going to learn in the program, its time for me to do this on my own!

Have you ever been let down by something built up to be amazing?? What did you do about it??

Happy Wednesday
xx Lauren

Couscous & Broccoli

2011-12-20T11:41:00.002+10:30

What do you do when dinner time is fast approaching- all that you have in the fridge is a head of broccoli and can't be arsed going to the shops?? Re-invent a new version of the broccoli salad!
Easy, quick and super delicious, I was very happy with how this one turned out.

Packet of Ainsley Harriot Instant Couscous (Roasted Vegetable)
Broccoli
1/2 Red Onion
Red Capsicum
Sun Dried Tomatoes
Danish Fetta
Dry roasted almonds
Pepper

Cook the couscous according to the packet directions.
Cut the broccoli into florets and finely slice the onion. Place them in a microwave safe container (I use a pyrex jug) and nuke for 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is just cooked.
Finely slice the capsicum, halve the tomotoes and stir through the warm broccoli.
Add in the couscous, chopped Almonds and crumble over the fetta with a good grinding of pepper.

Add as much or as little of each ingredient as you want or have on hand. We made enough for 3 serves- although it was probably more like four, but it was so delicious it was hard to stop picking at it! It think it took me a total of 10 minutes to whip this one up- quick and easy!

Do you have a favourite easy salad recipe??

xx Lauren

For the love of boxing

2011-12-18T20:36:00.004+10:30

I have always taken a bit of a liking to boxing. Something about the skill, the strength, the man-ly-ness of it has held my attraction...strange seeing as I am such a girly-girl who loves the ballet!
I think its pretty fitting that by coincidence my trainer has a passion for boxing too and yesterday he pointed me in the direction of this training video featuring Floyd Maywhether Jr. It is incredible- the speed, strength and agility he has and works hard for is phenomenal!

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It is so inspiring to watch- it is unbelievable how fast he skips, it makes me want to get up and move!

Have you come across anything lately that's left you feeling inspired?? Please share with me, love seeing new inspiration!

xx Lauren

Four Sisters

2011-12-18T15:02:00.002+10:30

Photography by Curiouser

I am very lucky to have three sisters.
For the first time in my life, all our lives actually, we live within 5 minutes of each other.
Which is both very special and cool.
We now have the opportunity to spend time together, getting to know each other and being a family, which I suppose is a pretty unique position to be in.
I am looking forward to that!

xx Lauren

Pinterest Friday Find- Be Yourself

2011-12-09T21:11:00.001+10:30

Wise words from Oscar Wilde.

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Have a fantastic weekend,
xx Lauren

Foo Fighters- Everlong

2011-12-08T16:54:00.001+10:30

I haven't blogged here in a week... the week has disappeared rather fast but I have also been very busy blogging on the Green Dandelion blog. We are creating a Christmas Special, blogging lots of inspiring festive bits in the lead up to Christmas!

Monday night Tatum, Jess, the Landlord and I went to see the Foo Fighters play at Adelaide Oval. It was amazing, they played for 2 and a half hours, Tatum has blogged about it and shared some of the amazing photos we captured already, so hop on over and read allllll about it!

Today I wanted to share one of my favourites, Everlong.

"And I wonder
When I sing along with you
If everything could ever feel this real forever
If anything could ever be this good again"

Enough Said.

Hope you are having a great week,
xx Lauren

The Mighty Might Bosstones - The Impression That I Get

2011-12-01T08:30:00.000+10:30

There were so many fabulous one hit wonders in the 90's its almost impossible to pick my favourite, but up near the top is most definitely The Mighty Mighty Bosstones. I first heard The Impression That I Get on Clueless and instantly loved it! Its still a song that makes me jump up and dance around like a buffoon! Too much fun :)

Do you have a favourite tune from the 90's??

xx Lauren

The Old Wives Tale

2011-11-30T14:20:00.001+10:30

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I'm feeling rather crappy today.
The last couple of days I've had a red, sore throat and general exhausted feeling- completely annoying because I don't have time this week (actually more like this month) to get sick, which made me think about all the random cures that float about and I'm wondering if they actually work?
My mumma is a classic for sprouting out random cures for things, including sticking a sliver of garlic up your nostril to help clear up a cold and using 1,2,3 whenever you start to cough. Both are equally as smelly, but I have been know to mix up a batch of 1,2,3 when a cough gets particularly bad. It is simply 1 part methylated spirits, 2 parts vinegar and 3 parts water mixed together and then rubbed on your chest...it seems to work, although after a quick google search I can't find any supporting evidence!!
My grandmother swears by Betadine- no matter what your complaint she will suggest and produce a bottle in a matter of moments. It is a running joke (with love of course) that Vanaema's love of Betadine is the same as the Grandfather in My Big Fat Greek Wedding love for Windex.
Other good tales I can remember hearing is the great one that if you swollow your chewing gum it will stay in your stomach for 5 years!! and that masturbating can cause blindness if performed too often...which I'm sure can't be true...lol!
But I suppose in the case of my sore throat drinking some hot water and honey can only help me...and perhaps some rest at some point :)

Do you know of any great Old Wives Tales?? Or any good suggestions on how to shake my sore throat??
xx Lauren

Creating Goals

2011-11-29T14:49:00.001+10:30

To date I have lost just over 35 kilos since February this year. One of the things that have helped me get this far has been setting lots of small, achievable goals- especially back at the beginning when it all seemed so hard and far away.

Weekly I set myself goals like:

Go to the gym 6 times during the week
Perform a plank on at least 3 different days and hold for at least 1 minute
Drink 2 litres of water everyday
Eat no bread for one day
Increasing the pace/incline on the treadmill and maintain

I don't reward myself for these types of goals, apart from the satisfaction & gratification that comes from completing something I set out to do .

I also have 5 kilo weight loss goals, making sure that I reward myself in someway with every 5 kilos I lose. To look at the end result number I am after is rather daunting, so breaking it up into smaller amounts not only makes its feel more manageable but it is also good to feel like I am being successful, even though I still have a long way to go.

To keep up the momentum of training and healthy eating I have also set some bigger goals to be accomplished over a longer time frame:

Run the City-Bay in 2012
Lose another 35 Kilos
Be able to perform chin-ups unassisted
Be able to do push-up on my toes

Along with these bigger goals I have written down a plan on how to achieve them, including using the c25km training program and working with my personal trainer, that way I am full accountable and there is no excuse as to why they can not happen.

I am relishing setting goals and achieving them, it makes this long process almost enjoyable.

Do you set goals? Not only in weight loss and fitness, but in everyday living too?? Do you have any tips for me?
xx Lauren

Today: I am here

2011-11-28T18:52:00.001+10:30

Outside my window...Its cloudy and the sun is beginning to set

I am thinking...that I need to get up and shower and go to bed...so very tired tonight

I am thankful for... being healthy

I am wearing... gym pants, sports tops, t-shirt & polar watch

I am going to...go find a dress tomorrow

I am currently reading... You'll be sorry when I'm dead

I am hoping... that Qantas behaves and I'll get to Sydney next weekend

On my mind... blogging...and my lack of it...so many ideas, so little time

From the kitchen... nothing- had early San Choy Bau for tea

Around the house... mess...I really need to clean
One of my favorite things...the gym, feeling fit and strong

A few plans for the rest of the week... work, gym, prepare for market on the weekend, baseball & Sebastians birthday, and a friends 30th on Saturday night

One photo to share..

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xx Lauren

Pinterest Friday Finds: Friends

2011-11-25T11:32:00.001+10:30

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I am very lucky to have people in my life who will do this with me.

Very lucky indeeed!
xx Lauren

My OTT Christmas Wishlist...

2011-11-25T09:43:00.001+10:30

Totally self-centered and all about me...my over the top, ultimate christmas wishlist!

A pair of Nike Free Run+ 2 Shoes...

A 3G Kindle Touch

Simply Peppermint Blythe <3

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Some Neroli & Jasmine Eau de Toilette

Mascara & Illuminator from Benefit

New bras & undies!! (I need these really bad!!) Do you hear me Mumma??

Whats on your ultimate OTT christmas wish list??
xx Lauren

Moving On and Moving Up

2011-11-19T17:12:00.001+10:30

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Its been bothering me a bit lately that I haven't been 100% happy with my life. In fact there have been many moments where I've found myself wondering why I was even bothering to breathe. I felt like I was failing at being a friend, being a sister, being me, going through motions but not being fully there.
Then consecutive weekends I had similar things happen which made me realise that I needed a swift kick up the arse and to start living for myself again. It is time to move on, grow up a little bit and live life to its absolute fullest. Time to stop worrying about pleasing everybody, about keeping peace just for the sake of it, about making sure that everyone is happy but me and that it is ok to move on.

So from now on I pledge to spend time with people that make me happy, to do things for myself, to be healthy, to smile and most of all live my life to its absolute fullest, because as someone reminded me just recently you only live once!

Melancholy post over.
Sorry about that!
xx Lauren

Friday Pinterest Finds: The Next Chapter

2011-11-18T18:25:00.001+10:30

One of the things I find uncanny about Pinterest is how often you will come across a pin that totally speaks to you. Reaches into your inner thoughts and says exactly what you are thinking/feeling/or imagining.

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I suppose its mostly just a case of what you read into things, but I like it when a quote comes along that I need right now.

Happy Friday,
xx Lauren

Bon Jovi- It's My Life

2011-11-17T19:44:00.001+10:30

Being sick this week has left me with lots of thinking time, combine that with some poignant discussions I've decided its time to change the way I have been living my life. Funnily as I was driving across town Bon Jovi came on the radio and it is DEFINITELY fitting!

"It's my life
And it's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
It's my life"

Good things are ahead!

xx Lauren

Friday Pinterest Finds: Wish Upon a Star

2011-11-11T16:13:00.001+10:30

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Seeing as today 11:11 11/11/11 occured it seems kind of fitting come across this on pinterest.
I'm big on making wishes, on dreaming and hoping for wonderful things to happen.
I wished for many things, some possible others completely impossible, but I believe that its always good to keep wishing.

Do you make wishes??

xx Lauren

Lest We Forget

2011-11-11T09:00:00.000+10:30

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In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie,

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

-Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD

..............

At the 11th hour,

of the 11th day,

of the 11th month

We Will Remember Them

Lest We Forget

Culture Club- Karma Chameleon

2011-11-10T17:51:00.001+10:30

Its my guilty pleasure.
Always turned up loud, always sung at top voice and always dancing around the room.
Its a silly song and Boy George, well he is just plain interesting isn't he.
Regardless from the first notes, Karma Chameleon will always put the biggest smile on my face.

" Desert loving in your eyes all the way.
If I listen to your lies would you say
I'm a man without conviction,
I'm a man who doesn't know
how to sell a contradiction.
You come and go, you come and go."

Do you have a guilty pleasure song?
xx Lauren

P.S I've set up a facebook page for A Little Bit of Me, pop on over here to visit me :)

Proud of you!

2011-11-09T23:04:00.001+10:30

I have a little sister.

Jess is 19, beautiful, incredibly creative, an amazing hairdresser, kind, loving, generous, very sensitive and an all round fabulous person whom I am so proud of.
Next week she will finish off her last tasks to be a fully-qualified hairdresser- something which I know she has battled through and worked hard to complete. I am seriously excited that Jess is completing a goal and setting into place some wonderful plans for the future.
There is a 6 year age gap between us, which is something that I constantly forget, along with the fact that she doesn't know all the things that I do. But in the last 6 months it has been incredibly obvious to me that Jess has grown alot, learnt lot and I love being in her company. She is a wonderful friend.

I am so very lucky to have Jess as my sister (and the free hairdo's that come with her!!). I am so very proud and can't wait to see what the future holds for my little sister.

Love You Jessie xoxo

xx Lauren

I Am Famous

2011-11-09T09:24:00.003+10:30

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The coolest people really do smile- so go on and get you're smile on people!!
Today I am smiling , because after a bit of self-indulgence/ego-inflating I bought my domain name and successfully mananged to direct my blog through it. Whoop!! I'm feeling pretty clever...and famous!

You can now find me at www.laurenboase.com
I am a dotcom! How cool! and now I am all sorted for when I become famous- just need to work out how I'm going to do that...any ideas??

Have a fabulous day and smile for me,
xx Lauren

The Chicken Schnitzel that wasn't

2011-11-08T22:52:00.000+10:30

Recently I tagged along with Tatum to a lovely bloggy dinner with Glow, Georgia, Kellie, Bianca, Fi, Jodie and Alyce . We put on our heels, traipsed down Hindley Street for 2 minutes before sensibly jumping in a cab for the $7 drive to the Benjamin on Franklin. It is a very cool pub, refurbished with lots of vintage/antiquey bits and an amazing art installation of cut glass bowl and glasses.
I spent a while analysing the menu deciding what I wanted, before finally settling on chicken schnitzel with pepper sauce. I became pretty excited by my choice- its been a while since I indulged in a schnitzel, I think my mouth was literally watering at my upcoming meal.

I didn't get a schnitzel.
Instead, in my sleep deprived state I ordered the Teriyaki Chicken Burger with a side of Peppercorn sauce. Seriously why did no one question me when I ordered a schnitzel topping with my burger?!? I can't even work out how I managed it and I am still a little bit stuck on the fact that I didn't get my schnitzel...
A very sad affair indeed.

Token bathroom selfie

Regardless of my schnitzel-less meal, it was fabulous to meet such lovely girls, discuss a little bit of blogging and have some fantastic, much needed laughs.
So now you really know what a goose I am...and I am still craving schnitzel!
xx Lauren

Blog Silence

2011-11-06T14:10:00.003+10:30

Melbourne Cup 2011

I haven't posted here in a week, and I've missed it.
A couple of times I've opened up the post page and watched the cursor blinking at me before closing the window and walking away. I decided to go with the 'if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all' approach and this week I was inexplicably snarky with lots of whinge, whine and moan about.
That's not to say I didn't have a nice week, I did, and I had some cool things to share, I just couldn't find nice ways to share them. Sad, I know.
So onto better, nicer and happier thoughts this week.

Nothing like discovering a random, free photo booth in the City

How was your week??
xx Lauren

I should not be on the computer...

2011-10-29T14:52:00.000+10:30

I should be madly finishing off the packing and organising for tomorrow's market, but I couldn't resist the desire to share these wise ,wise words of Julia Child.

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What are you passionate about?
Happy Saturday,
xx Lauren

My Reading Pile

2011-10-28T07:34:00.000+10:30

One of the things I have missed the most this year is reading. In between my committment to the gym, actually having to do uni work (and the mountain of reading that accompanied it), work, Green Dandelion and sleeping I've had to put down my books for awhile. Thankfully uni is winding up for the year and I've been able to embrace my love of reading again.

Tuscan Rose, was a fabulous book. It took me a little while to get through it (couple of weeks) but I enjoyed every page. Set in Italy, and mostly during World War Two, it was interesting to learn what life was like under Mussolini, but still have a fictional emotional story too.

I have been wanting to read The Help for weeks, after reading good reports of both the book and movie but made myself wait until I had more time on my hands (and finished Tuscan Rose). I loved it! and read it in a couple of days, "In pitch-perfect voices, Kathryn Stockett creates three extraordinary women whose determination to start a movement of their own forever changes a town, and the way women--mothers, daughters, caregivers, friends--view one another. A deeply moving novel filled with poignancy, humor, and hope, The Help is a timeless and universal story about the lines we abide by, and the ones we don't" via here

Bridesmaids was a el-cheapo book I picked up earlier in the week whilst in Port Lincoln. It was ok, a nice bit of holiday reading fluff. I managed to read the entire book in a day- so its nothing too brain draining and some good giggles.

I began reading Marieke Hardy's book You'll be sorry when I'm dead on the plane flight back to Adelaide on wednesday morning. Dad picked it up whilst I was home and commented that it sounded like a good book...my reply was that he wasn't allowed to steal it yet! Only a few chapters in and so far protitutes, cancer and football have all been discussed. I'm loving the real-ness of it- I found a fantastic, positive review here.

I am really excited to be reading again,
What are you reading at the moment?
xx Lauren

Titanium - David Guetta featuring Sia

2011-10-27T16:58:00.000+10:30

With lots of sewing to be finished before market on Sunday, music is important to keep the momentum going. I will sadly admit that the TV is generally left on Music Max, mostly because to me the songs are mostly easy to listen to...my big admission for the day that my taste in music can be rather dodgy at times :)
Any who, I love this-

"I'm bulletproof, nothing to lose
Fire away, fire away
Ricochet, you take your aim
Fire away, fire away
You shoot me down but I won't fall
I am titanium
You shoot me down but I won't fall

I am titaniun"

Whats playing at your house this week?

xx Lauren

10 Random Things I Really Must Tell You

2011-10-25T10:15:00.002+10:30

Tatum did it, she copied Chantelle, who took the tag from Rachel, so I decided that I too am going to share some random facts that you probably don't need or want to know!

1. I wish that I had finished my first uni degree
I studied a Bachelor of Arts (Communication, Media and Culture) but dropped out after two years and feeling like all I learnt was how to write a resume. 6 years later the field is so much bigger and so many job opportunities in Social Media, I think I would've been very happy in that field.

2. I have size 13 feet
HUGE! seriously huge and I really don't like them at all, and its all because of my big toe (handed down to me from Dad) you could cut the top off of it and I would have lovely size 10 feet I'm sure.

3. I am the worst person with money ever
I want to really learn how to manage money better- I am completely useless!

4. I am stupidly shy
Most social situations I get incredibly nervous. I hate being with people I do not know, it is so out of my comfort zone and I keep pretty quite.

5. I change my mind about what 'career' I want every 5 minutes
Teacher, Shoe Maker, Journalist, Business Woman, Artist, Fashion Designer...I change my mind and dream up new jobs every other day. I wish I could settle on one and follow it through.

6. I love op-shops
I started going to op-shops with my friend Jane back in High School, at the time I didn't really know what I was looking for and would wander around and sometime buy a scarf or piece of random jewellery. A decade later I love hunting in the op-shops for all sorts of things, scanning through the racks of clothes, searching through the linen, pulling out books and madly searching for Pyrex to add to my minuscule collection. The best day is when I find a cheap vintage suitcase to add to my growing pile.

7. I am tall
Like very tall, 185cm or 6 foot 1 inch to be exact. I am at useful getting things off the top shelf at the supermarket and getting in your way at concerts. At least once a week someone will say to me "Wow, you're really tall!"

8. I went to see the accountant this morning
First time ever- I have always just given it to Dad to do. But apparently I am getting older (I am paying for my own private health now too) and its something you have to do. Getting older and having more responsibility sucks sometimes. Its also a very small world...the accountant was a guy I went to school with in year 2!

9. I swear too much
I noticed recently that in the last 6 or so months I have began to swear far to much, dropping the f-bomb reguarly. I actually don't like it, I like the think that I am a lady :P

10. I still have issues with my short hair
I curse the day the stupid guy at work commented on my short hair and lesbians. I love having short hair (even though it is way more work that long hair) and feel really confident with it, but the thought crosses my mind regularly that I hope it doesn't scare guys away. sigh...I need to get over this one and not really care what other people think I know...

There you have it, 10 random facts about me,
Now its your turn to tell me something about you!

Happy Tuesday,
xx Lauren

Going Home

2011-10-21T13:05:00.000+10:30

This weekend I am in Port Lincoln to attend the wedding of a gorgeous girl I went to school with. I don't get to go home very often anymore, in fact calling it home seems kind of weird especially as Mum and Dad have moved 5 houses up the street and after 8 years Adelaide is definitely my 'home'.

I miss seeing this view everyday

I am looking forward to a relaxing couple of days, visiting garage sales, catching up with friends, reading my book, fresh country air and stressing out over the sewing I want to/need too finish before next weekends market (Ok, I'm not looking forward to the stressing bit- or the visit to the accountant I am making on Tuesday, but they are an integral part of the weekend! lol!)

What are you up to this weekend?
xx Lauren

Foster The People - Pumped Up Kicks

2011-10-20T16:26:00.000+10:30

I first heard Foster The People's Pumped Up Kicks on an episode of Fox8's Slide and I liked it. Last week when I was procrastinating I thought I would do a bit of research and discovered what I thought was a light-hearted song isn't quite so, apparently it is based on a troubled and delusional youth with homicidal thoughts...dark, sad stuff.

"All the other kids with the pumped up kicks

you'd better run, better run, outrun my gun.

All the other kids with the pumped up kicks

you'd better run, better run, faster than my bullet."

xx Lauren

dance dance dance

2011-10-14T17:01:00.001+10:30

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Two reasons I love this quote- my Nana (Dad's Mum) always told stories about dancing on tables, especially at Greek weddings in Darwin and my Vanaema (Mum's Mum) whilst doesn't anymore, used to love drinking Champagne and I will always associate champagne with loooong lunches with her and Aunty Bette.

Tonight I am going out dancing with my friend Mikaela and little sister Jess. Which brings forth all my conflicted feelings about dancing in public...I will happily and do dance at home, at the gym, at the supermarket, at work, on stage...but put me on a dance floor and I become very self-concious. Preoccupied about how silly I must look or if I'm taking up too much space on the dance floor. Ridiculous I know. Its been a while since I last went out, and I haven't had a very good track record of being a lady the last couple of times...who knew that losing weight and drinking results in some very different behaviour! haha! Regardless I am looking forward to spending some time with two of my most favourite people and having a good night.

How do you feel about dancing? Do you dance or sit on the sidelines?
Happy Friday lovely people,
xx Lauren

P.S Vanaema is the Estonian version of Grandmother, its literal translation is 'Old Mum'. Strangely we call my grandmother Vanaema, even though she is Australian and my Grandfather who came to Australia after the second world war we call Poppy. I have no idea why.

Its Friday...again...really?!

2011-10-14T07:58:00.000+10:30

It seems the week has disappeared on me without even blinking an eye...seriously how does that happen? No blog post for a week. Ultimately it was probably best that I stayed far away, otherwise I may have published a tirade of grumpy, emotional, bitchy, tired posts because that pretty much sums up me this week.

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Four days work free are ahead and I am so looking forward to them. Lots of seeing friends, hopefully some tiny baby cuddles, exercising, dancing, sewing and soul repairing planned over the next couple of days.

What are you planning this weekend??
xx Lauren

The things that annoy me greatly

2011-10-07T21:14:00.000+10:30

Or in other words, totally shits me to tears...

*People who don't use their indicator on roundabouts
*Actually, people who don't use indicators
*People who walk really slow and I can't get around them at the shops
*The weird guy at work with inappropriate comments
*People who have NO manners
*Huey's cooking
*Bad coffee
*When the dog does her excited wee when I come home
*Text messages that end in ...
*People who complain about shoes...try having my GIANT feet and having to pay $300 for every pair of shoes
*My clothes line that decapitates me every. single. time.
*Facebook status updates that are a pure cry for attention
*Those horrible stick people family stickers on cars
*That I can't get those amazingly formed blog posts out of my brain and onto the computer when I'm at work/gym/driving/bed/supermarket/mid-something important
*The neighbours HUGE avocado tree
*My car and its shitty motor problems

And that will do for today.
What annoys you??

xx Lauren

Friday Pinterest Finds

2011-10-07T17:34:00.001+10:30

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Happy happy Friday,
xx Lauren

Simple Minds Don't You (Forget About Me)

2011-10-06T18:59:00.000+10:30

The Breakfast Club was made the year before I was born, so I probably didn't watch it until it was a good decade old but many years later it is still one of my absolute favourite movies.
Don't You (Forget about Me) was playing today at work, and it immediately jumped out at me for two reasons- one awesome song from awesome movie (duh) and two the lyrics seem kind of fitting this week!

"Tell me your troubles and doubts
Giving me everything inside and out and
Love's strange so real in the dark
Think of the tender things that we were working on"

xx Lauren

Discombobbulated

2011-10-04T16:50:00.000+10:30

"dazed and confused. stupified, dumbified, lost, lost sense of direction, dizzy, etc..." urbandictionary.com

Out of sorts.

I think that probably the best way to describe how I'm feeling at the moment. Its frustrating the hell out of me, because I have no reason to be feeling like this...everything is annoying me, I'm feeling all cross because messages I sent out to multiple people over the weekend went unanswered- which makes me wonder if I've done something wrong. I feel all alone, when in reality I'm surrounded by people, and I don't really want to talk to any of them anyway. I feel grumpy, happy and tired all at the same time. I feel like having one big pity party and telling the world to bugger off for a while. AND I feel like screaming really loud and having a cry and stamping my feet like a child.

Seriously I need to get over it, especially when I know I have a very blessed life.

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OK, whingey post over with.

Just needed to get those words ot of my head rather than them swimming round in circles.

xx Lauren

Get With The Program- An ordinary weigh-in

2011-10-02T18:04:00.002+10:30

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I was disappointed with my weight loss this week.
100 grams.
That was it.
I have no one to blame but myself and for that reason I need do a serious assessment of what I'm eating, actually I don't even need to do an assessment, what I need to do is FOLLOW the eating plan I have be given...not hard at all in reality.
There is a great article by Mia Freedman today all about Michelle Bridges and the motivation myth, its definitely worth a read. It is the reason why I have no issue with exercising anymore- because I have made it apart of my day. I don't need or rely on motivation to get me to the gym, it is just something that I have to do everyday, it is who I now am. A big bonus is that for the most part really enjoying exercise and how good it makes me feel.

Anyway this week I:
Monday- 60 mins Cardio (1196 calories)
Tuesday- Boxing (1618 calories) /Pump (1032 calories)
Wednesday- Boxing (1313 calories)
Thursday- Personal Training + 20 min cardio (1350 calories)
Friday- Rest
Saturday- ~~Personal Training~~/ 90 mins Cardio (2192 calories)
Sunday- 70 mins Cardio (1626 calories)
I'm very happy with the calories I burnt this week, my personal training on Thursday completely wiped me out (in a good way) and set some new levels/goals to work towards.

This weeks training plan is pretty similar:
Monday- Cardio
Tuesday- Boxing/Cardio
Wednesday- Boxing
Thursday- Personal Training
Friday- Rest
Saturday Personal Training/Cardio
Sunday- Climb Mt Lofty
I'm keen to climb Mt Lofty again and see if it is any easier than my last attempt- I'm thinking that it will still be a killer!

I made the Carrot and Zucchini bars this week. I don't think I will bother making them again- they were OK, but nothing amazing. I think the addition of some cream cheese icing would make them delicious, but that would blow the calories out hugely :(

Carrot & Zucchini Bars
Makes 24 bars
Calories 139 calories/serve

2 Eggs
3/4 c Brown Sugar
1/2 c Canola
1/4 C honey
1 tsp Vanilla
1 1/2 C Carrot, grated
1 C Zucchini, grated
1/2 C Walnuts, roughly chopped
1 1/2 C plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp bi-carb soda

Pre-Heat oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray 13"x 9"x 2"
Whisk eggs, sugar, oil, honey and vanilla until sugar is melted.
Stir through the carrot, zucchini and walnuts.
In a different bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, ginger and bi-carb and then slowly add to the wet mixture.
Pour into the baking tray and cook for 25 mins.
Cool and then slice into 24 bars.

If you want to try them with some cream-cheese icing a good recipe can be found here.

Here's to a healthy and happy week!
xx Lauren

52 Weeks of Mail

2011-10-01T18:55:00.000+09:30

I love going to my letter box.
Its a part of my routine when I get home from work each day to open the door and let the dog out. Give her a pat and then walk to the letter box to check for mail. Sadly 90% of my mail is either bills or for the people who used to live here.
This week I came across a cool project set up by Etsy to send a card or letter to someone every week for a year, to keep intouch with friends and family through a more traditional form of communication.

"Throughout 52 Weeks of Mail, we are asking everyone to commit to sending just ONE card or letter each week. You can send more than one, of course! 52 Weeks of Mail BEGINS on October 9th, 2011, and ends on October 7th, 2012" {credit}

I am an avid collector of cards and love writing notes so this seems perfect, and it gives me the perfect excuse to buy stationary.

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So if you would like a random letter from me at some point in the next 12 months, send me an email with your address so I can share the letter box love!
Also you can like the 52 Weeks of Mail facebook page and play along too...I know I would love some non-bills mail :)

xx Lauren

Today

2011-10-01T13:54:00.003+09:30

Outside my window...crazy, crazy weather...blue skies & sun shining then the next second windy as and raining hard

I am thinking...that I will have to take the washing to the laundromat to dry and that I will be having a very quiet Saturday night...book, cup of tea and the couch- I am a party animal!

I am thankful for...my parents- they are so awesome <3

I am wearing...jeans, long sleeved black top, coral cardi, converse sneakers and soft grey scarf

I am going to... take Jess to the airport this afternoon

I am currently reading... Tuscan Rose by Belinda Alexandra

I am hoping... that Blue Bird market goes well tomorrow for Green Dandelion

On my mind... how I need to clean up what I'm eating

From the kitchen... Soda Water...I'm becoming addicted

Around the house... the footy is on, the washing machine is going and the dishes are washed
One of my favorite things... Boxing, I think its now my favourite way to exercise

A few plans for the rest of the week... gym, sorting out some stuff to take to the op shop, work and working on my uni assignments.

One photo to share..

This was my view as I took the dog for a walk this week. I love living at the beach and witnessing gorgeous sunsets all the time.

What are you up to this weekend??

Who do you want to win the AFL grand final? I'm cheering on Geelong!

Happy Saturday,

xx Lauren

Pinterest Friday Finds

2011-09-30T14:35:00.001+09:30

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Words of wisdom from Disney.
xx Lauren

Get With The Program- Enjoying the Moments

2011-09-25T18:11:00.000+09:30

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I had a beer this afternoon.
It was amazing.
As part of my weight-loss regime I have happily given up alcohol, enjoying soda water with fresh lime at the few social outings I've had. But this week in general kinda sucked, I was sicker than I have been in a long time (swine flu) and then yesterday I was struck by one of those super emotional, tired, grumpy, hormonal surges and spent far too much time crying. So as I was standing at the bar about to order my soda water this afternoon I made the spur of the moment decision to have a beer whilst I was at the Belgium Beer Cafe...long story short, it made me realise that by limiting something things they are made far more enjoyable when you do splurge. I know its silly but it had never really occurred to me before...and the beer was really good!

Exercise wise, I had a pretty quite week. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday were completely written off but by Wednesday afternoon I was feeling so much better and going completely stir-crazy so took myself off to the gym for Boxing. Perhaps not my best decision ever, I had a couple of coughing fits, sweated like there was no tomorrow, then came home and collapsed. Thursday I kept my personal training date...I may have whacked myself in the head with a 10 kilo plate whilst doing squat presses, and I also may have half died in a coughing fit...but for the most part it felt so good to be moving. It also felt good to have a massive laugh at myself- it seriously hurt hitting my head, instant headache!! Friday and today I did my usual cardio mixup and Saturday we had group personal training.
I think the biggest lesson I learnt this week was to remember to stop. That I need make sure that I give my body some down time, otherwise it will fall apart on me- and I really don't want that happening.

This week I plan on-
Monday- Cardio
Tuesday- Boxing/Pump
Wednesday- Boxing
Thursday- Personal Training
Friday- Rest
Saturday- Personal Training/Cardio
Sunday- Cardio
I am really looking forward to gaining more energy as the week goes on. I still floored by how much 'the flu' knocked me round.

I had the most boring diet ever this week, completely uninspired I stuck to a diet of tuna & beans, chicken & salad, oranges and toast...exciting- NOT!! What I did find on pinterest was a recipe for carrot and zucchini cake which I plan on trying out this week after I worked out the calories and with a few alterations each serve should be just over 150 calories.

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I will definitely share the recipe once I bake a bit later in the week (provided that actually taste good!)

How was your week? Did your week go to plan?

Don't forget to check in on Tatum and see how her week went AND how her fabulous sew-a-long is going, the girls are making some very cool dresses with the Lisette pattern.
xx Lauren

Op-shop Gold!

2011-09-23T16:50:00.003+09:30

As this week wore on I was beginning to go a little stir crazy being cooped up inside the house, so I allowed myself a brief escape and called into two of my favourite op shops. The first produced another black cardigan to pop in my wardrobe and a brand new with tags gym t-shirt. I don't have a photo of either of those because they are both already in the wash!
I struck gold in the second store...

The vintage suitcase ($4) is gorgeous, it has a few marks in the front which I'm sure I could buff out, but I will add it into my suitcase stack and have another place to store some fabric.

I also picked up two green vintage sheets- the bottom is a queen sized flannel and the top a single cotton, both are in really good condition and were a massive $2 each! I'm thinking that I might just use the flannel on my bed next winter and the cotton one will be turned into something for Green Dandelion.

Speaking of Green Dandelion- Tatum re-stocked the store this week with lots of gorgeous new bits and until midnight Sunday we are offering free postage Australia wide. All you need to do is enter the code SPRINGFREE at the checkout :)

xx Lauren

Pinterest Friday Finds

2011-09-23T09:37:00.000+09:30

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xx Lauren

Florence + The Machine - What The Water Gave Me

2011-09-22T16:57:00.000+09:30

I wish I could sing like this woman- Florence is A*MAZING!

I'm still sick :( Off to the doctor again tomorrow, I'm thinking that I might have a chest infection now- indicated by how hard it is to breathe and the lovely bits I keep coughing up...sorry TMI??
Time for some drugs I think :)

Happy Thursday,
xx Lauren

Teacups for Heartkids

2011-09-21T11:31:00.002+09:30

My gorgeous, clever friend Kate is selling these fantastic prints HERE to raise money for Heartkids. From the 17th- 30th September Kate will donate $10 from every print sold to the CUPPA for HEARTKIDS fundraising campaign. You can read Kate's blog post all about it HERE.

The prints are $17 plus postage, an absolute bargain for such a gorgeous piece of artwork.
They would make a fantastic present, especially if you popped it into a frame...Christmas is only 95-odd days away!
I just bought mine.

xx Lauren

***I cannot be blammed for any other shopping you may do whilst exploring Kate's Store and Etsy...so many beautiful things***

Humor Me...please

2011-09-20T14:46:00.001+09:30

Photo taken last week on my phone

Seeing as I'm stuck on the couch feeling sad and sorry for myself I though I would fill out one of those silly A-Z questionaires to pass the time...and so that you can all know some more useless facts about me!

A. Age: 25
B. Bed size: Queen- but its broken at the moment, so its just the matress on the floor.
C. Chore that you hate: Cleaning the fridge...ugh! its horrible
D. Dogs: one Maltese Shitzu Sadie. She has recently decided that she needs to sleep on our beds at night- I am NOT a fan of this
E. Essential start to your day: Starting work at 4am means that I don't really think much before I start the day. My alarm goes off at 2:20am- I'm out of the house by 3am- I get to work, change into my uniform, eat some breakfast and on the casino floor ready to start at 4am
F. Favorite color: Yellow
G. Gold or Silver: Silver
H. Height: 6'1" or 185cm
I. Instruments you play: I can play the piano- kind of, sort of- I wish that I could play it much better than I do
J. Job title: Croupier, Student, Small-business Owner
K. Kids: None- 5 nieces and 1 nephew do me quite fine
L. Live: Adelaide
M. Mother’s name: Lyn
N. Nicknames: Loz, Lozzie, Boasey, Elbows
O. Overnight hospital stays: A week long stay in 2004 following major emergency surgery
P. Pet peeves: Rude people, its not hard to say Please and Thankyou
Q. Quote from a movie: "A life lived in fear, is a life half lived" Fran, Strictly Ballroom
R. Right or left handed: Right handed.
S. Siblings: Three sisters, Tatum, Samantha and Jess
U. Underwear: I wear it yes.
V. Vegetable you hate: Mushrooms -ick!
W. What makes you run late: for work- oversleeping, in general- computer distractions.
X. X-Rays you’ve had: Leg, Ankle, Arm, Spine, Teeth, plus adominal catscans and ultrasounds...think thats it
Y. Yummy food that you make: Ummm...at the moment I can't think of anything...although I do like to cook, I'm going to blame the sickness and my complete lack of brain functions today. I do know that I am a TERRIBLE baker, but I also have a terrible oven
Z. Zoo animal: Giraffe - Do they really need an explanation? Tall, leggy and gorgeous...just like me!! hahaha!

Hope you are having a fabulous day,
xx Lauren

Get With The Program- Running into the Ground

2011-09-19T18:45:00.002+09:30

I ended what was going to be a fabulous week by completely crashing and burning. I'm currently tucked up on the couch feeling sad and sorry for myself with the flu, its moments like these that I really wish I still lived at home with Mum and Dad...I want someone to come look after me :(

Anyway, enough with the whinging!
Up until yesterday I had a really successful week, I ran! on the treadmill! I have always had an aversion to treadmills, scared that I will fall off the back and cause damage to myself and those around me- it also has something to do with my terrible balance. When Stefan suggested the treadmill in my personal training on Thursday I gave him a definite no look, but lucky for me the man does his job well and didn't really give me any choice but to get on and jog (granted I didn't give much of a fight apart from my initial headshake and no). I only jogged at 8.5km/ph for 1:10, 1:20, 1:30, with 18 leg press' in between, but I felt mighty proud of myself. I held on for dear life, and no doubt looked like a total goose but I DID IT!! Now to work on letting go when I run and to run for longer.

I also made it to an RPM class. It was good, it was really hard, it burnt lots of calories and it hurt- a lot! I would really like to add RPM into my weekly training plan, but the class timetable doesn't really fit in very well- which sucks, but when I can I will attend a class.

So this week I-
Monday- ~~Swim~~/Cardio
Tuesday- Boxing/Pump
Wednesday- RPM/Boxing
Thursday- Personal Training
Friday- Rest Day
Saturday- Cardio (30minutes)/Personal Training
Sunday- ~~Cardio~~
I didn't get to go for a swim on Monday because the swimming center was closed! and Sunday was a complete right off after being sent home from work, I retired to bed and pretty much stayed there, except from a 3 hour trip to the doctors for the next 24 hours.

I've decided not to plan any training for the next week- I'm going to focus on resting and getting myself better. I have personal training booked in for Thursday and Saturday, so fingers crossed I will be able to breathe again by then, I will also try and do some yoga in the next couple of days to stretch out the sore muscles. Who'd have thought so much coughing and lying down could cause so many aches and pains. I'm also thinking that I might look into getting some cupping done to try and holistically cure myself.

In the hope of making myself feel better I made some Chinese Chicken Noodle Soup this afternoon.

Serves: 4
Calories: 180
1 Litre Salt-Reduced Chicken Stock
1 Chicken Breast, butterflied
4 Spring Onion, sliced 3cm batons
1 Carrot, sliced 3cm batons
3cm Ginger, sliced
Chilli, sliced lengthwise
Vermicelli Noodles
Star Anise
Pepper Corns
Soy Sauce

Place the stock, spring onions, chilli, star anise and pepper corns in a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. Pop in your chicken, and poach. When cook pull chicken out and slice. Add the carrot and noodles to the saucepan, when the noodles are soft, add the chicken back. Serve with a few splashes of Soy Sauce.

Simple, Easy and Good for the Soul.
Tatum taught me this recipe, she has an even better version HERE where you get to make your own stock too, but that was a bit too much for me today.

Now, I'm back to curling up on the couch.
Happy Monday,
xx Lauren

Pinterest Friday Finds

2011-09-16T10:00:00.000+09:30

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Lets go change the world!!
xx Lauren

Rufus Wainwright - Across The Universe

2011-09-15T19:20:00.000+09:30

A beautiful cover of a beautiful song with a beautiful film clip.
Nothing can top The Beatles but I think this comes close.

"Sounds of laughter shades of life
are ringing through my open ears
exciting and inviting me
Limitless undying love which
shines around me like a million suns
It calls me on and on across the universe"

What have you been listening to lately?

xx Lauren

RUOK?

2011-09-15T09:49:00.000+09:30

Today is RUOK? Day.

"Thursday 15 September, 2011 is R U OK?Day.

It’s a national day of action which aims to prevent suicide by encouraging Australians to connect with someone they care about and help stop little problems turning into big ones.

On that day we want everyone across the country, from all backgrounds and walks of life, to ask family, friends and colleagues: "Are you OK?".

Staying connected with others is crucial to our general health and wellbeing. Feeling isolated or hopeless can contribute to depression and other mental illnesses, which can ultimately result in suicide. Regular, meaningful conversations can protect those we know and love.

It's so simple. In the time it takes to have a coffee, you can start a conversation that could change a life."

From the RUOK? Wesbite

I've been writing this post for days now. Struggling to find the right words for what I want to say. I think that Mad Cow has written it perfectly here.
If you ask me am I OK? My answer will inevitably be yes, of course I am fine. There are so many ideals and expectations put into our lives that I don't want to burden anybody with me and I will lie rather than admit to feeling like a failure. That sometimes I feel like giving up, going to sleep and never waking up again.

Asking RUOK? is so important, listening to the answer even more so. Please do me a favour and just ask one person today, you never know what difference you can make.

For more information you can visit the RUOK? website - www.ruokday.com.au
For help and information you can call-
Lifeline 131122
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
Kids Help Line 1800 55 1800
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636

Prior to this year I had never heard of RUOK? Day, but from now on I am going to make sure that it is apart of my life.
xx Lauren

10 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

2011-09-14T17:16:00.000+09:30

Today is my first day off after 13 consecutive days at work and I am feeling very happy!

*I'm wearing my favourite red lipstick - Revlon True Red
*Plans for Melbourne Cup this year are forming with lots of my lovely friends

*The skies are bright blue and the sun is warm and shining
*I did some online ETSY shopping and found a gorgeous new shop
*I have two clean loads of washing...and they smell really good, thanks to some new fabric softener
*I went to and made it through RPM!!

*I bought a slap bracelet at Smiggle today- totally unecessary but reminds me of being a kid
*I'm going to Sydney in December for the 12WBT finale training session and partay!
*I've unexpectedly organised a fabulous giveaway for my blog
*I won x-lotto!! $21.45 which paid for the massage I then went and got :)

What is making you happy today??
Hope you are having a wonderful day too!
xx Lauren

Say it out loud!

2011-09-12T19:13:00.001+09:30

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Round 3 of the 12wbt kicked off today and pre-season task #5 was to make a commitment to myself and a commitment to others. To voice my goal and ensure that I am a woman of my word.

My commitment is to lose 20 kilos over the next 12 weeks, to learn to run 5 kilometers without stopping and to wear a size 16 dress to the finale party in Sydney in December. I am fully committed to do the work to get me there.

So I am now 120% committed to this, there is no backing out or giving up, I have to do this for myself- to ensure that I am the best version of me.

What commitments have you made to yourself lately? Do you think you will stick by them?? Do you think saying them out loud helps?
xx Lauren

Get With The Program- Injured??

2011-09-11T19:26:00.001+09:30

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I question my injured status because its my baby toe that hurts, and looks rather unattractive I'm afraid. Its not broken, but rather a consequence after getting the worst blisters on earth after Blogopolis at the end of July. I'm thinking I might find myself a podiatrist this week to see if it can be helped, because no matter how much I poke at it I can't work out what is exactly wrong or how to fix it! It is incredibly frustrating...and I'm honestly not over-reacting with the pain thing- really, really sore :(

I'm mostly happy with my exercise this week, I missed my Tuesday morning boxing class after being called into work and never made it to the RPM class for the same reason. I forgot to wear/turn on my watch a couple of times this week so I don't have an exact calorie burnt figure, but it is over 7840 calories.

This last week I-
Monday- Cardio
Tuesday- ~~Boxing~~/Cardio/Pump
Wednesday- ~~RPM~~/Boxing
Thursday- Personal Training
Friday- Rest day
Saturday- Cardio (30 minutes)/Personal Training (Group)
Sunday- Cardio.

Things to note this week- I loved PT on Saturday! It was really hard, but it made me again realise how I am much stronger and fitter than I think I am. I have noticed my heart rate changing too- its fitter, dropping back to the low 100's almost as soon as I stop moving, and I'm needing to work harder than before to get it to jump up. Happy about that!

This week I plan on-
Monday- Swim/Cardio
Tuesday- Boxing/Pump
Wednesday- RPM/Boxing
Thursday- Personal Training
Friday- Rest Day
Saturday- Cardio/Personal Training
Sunday- Cardio

I will try again to get to an RPM class this week, I really want to give on a go and tomorrow Mikaela and I are going for a swim. I haven't been lap swimming in years and years and years, but thought that it would be a good change and would give my weary knees a bit of a break. I'm interested to wear my polar and see how many calories I burn- if its over 1000 I probably wont do the extra cardio, will just play it all by ear.

The 12wbt starts this week too! I plan on blogging lots along the way and will be back this week to share some of the pre-season tasks with you, to make myself more accountable I suppose. What I wont be sharing though is my before shots...scary!

Its my turn to share a recipe, and during the week Jess (the little sister) requested Tuna Mornay, so I worked this one out- it was delicious and I was pretty upset when I got carried away yesterday cleaning out the fridge and threw the leftovers in the bin- I had planned on that being tea tonight!

Lauren's Tuna Mornay
Serves 6
350 Calories


Another dodgy photo photo- sorry! Tastes much better than it looks!

50g Margarine
1 Onion (diced)
1 small red capsicum (diced)
1/4 Plain Flour
1 tin Light Evaporated Milk
1 tin Sweet Corn
1 425g tin Tuna in Spring Water
1 Lime
Brown Rice to serve

Put your rice onto cook according to the packet directions- I use the absorbtion method.
Melt the margarine over low heat, then add the onion and capsicum and cook until onion is translucent.
Stir in the flour and cook, slow pour in the milk, a little at a time until the white sauce begins to form.
Stir though the sweetcorn and tuna, finishing off with a really good grind of pepper.
Serve with 1/.2 cup of rice and a wedge of lime.
Alternatively if you want to reduce the calorie count, serve the mornay with a big baby spinach salad.

What exercise do you have planned for this week?
Don't forget to visit Tatum and see how she fitted exercise into the busy week.

I'm about to turn off the light- its been a very big sleep deprived week. I've worked 11 consecutive shifts and have 2 more before I can have a sleep in, and last night instead of sleeping I went to see The Living End play at the Thebarton Theater, a fantastic concert!
Have a great week,
xx Lauren

Friday Pinterest Finds

2011-09-09T20:14:00.003+09:30

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I am unique.
I am one of a kind.
And I completely love that!
xx Lauren

Lior - This Old Love

2011-09-08T17:53:00.000+09:30

**edited to add- The youtube video is meant to be attatched here and I have no idea how or why it has disapered. It can be found HERE -sorry**

One day when I get married, this will be one of the songs that I will play.

"So let's grow old together

Baby you and I will

We'll grow old together yea

And this love will never

This old love will never die"

I love it.
Happy Thursday lovely people,
xx Lauren

Goal #7

2011-09-06T16:09:00.003+09:30

Goal number 7 on my 25 for 25 list was to ride a show ride, and yesterday little sister and I headed off to the Royal Adelaide Show so I could cross it off my list!

It was....fun, exciting and way way scary. I definitely closed my eyes and DEFINITELY screamed out loud- I couldn't wait for it to end, but wanted to do it all again when it finished. Granted we didn't because I am too stingy to pay $10 for 3 minutes of entertainment.

We survived and I crossed a goal off my list.
Now on to the next one...
xx Lauren

Get With The Program- Pottering Along

2011-09-04T18:28:00.001+09:30

My polar watch & heart rate monitor = true love

Overall I'm pretty happy with my weeks exercise efforts. I burnt over 8000 calories and finished up the week feeling fit and strong, which always makes me happy. I know that I really need to start focusing on my food intake again, I have certainly become rather lazy about it in the last couple of weeks. That doesn't bother me as I have enjoyed everything I have been doing, but I have set some big goals to fulfil by the end of the year and super healthy eating is going to guarantee I get there, especially as exercising is more pleasure than pain these days.

I had my blood tests and results this week and was happy to hear that the end of my world isn't coming- extreme thoughts to be having I know, but with my previous health history cancer (or something similar) was definitely near the top of my suspects. Turns out I am deficient in vitamin D and have extremely low iron levels, both things that are easily fixable with pills. I will go back in a couple of months to make sure things are back on track, but in the mean time I have the all clear to keep exercising.
This week I-
Monday- Cardio (1085 calories) *I was really hungover Monday, and I mean REALLY!*
Tuesday- Boxing (1698 calories) Pump (934 calories +) *I forgot to turn my watch on at the start of the class- doh!)
Wednesday- Boxing (1386 calories)
Thursday- PT 45 minutes (1253 calories)
Friday- Rest Day
Saturday- PT group session (1613 calories)
Sunday- ~~Cardio~~ Didn't make it :(

This week coming I plan-
Monday- Cardio
Tuesday- Boxing/Pump
Wednesday- RPM/Boxing
Thursday- PT (plus cardio if I have time)
Friday- Rest Day- Get a massage
Saturday- PT group session (plus extra cardio if I have time)
Sunday- Cardio

In preparation to start Round 3 of the 12 Week Body Transformation I thought I would ramp my exercise for the week and challenge myself with a RPM class. I have done a few before and I think I am ready to brave them again...although I might regret the 'pain' I'm sure I will be in after. I'm looking forward to the vitamins starting to take effect too and hopefully gaining some energy- so over the exhaustion feeling! Any tips you might have on foods to eat to make sure I'm getting all the energy possible will be most welcome :)

Keep your eye on Tatum's blog tonight as she will soon be posting her Get With The Program post along with another of her super yummy recipes!
Have a fantastic week,
xx Lauren

Today

2011-09-04T13:33:00.001+09:30

Outside my window...Spring is here! Blue skies and birds singing- its makes me happy

I am thinking...that I shoudn't be blogging and should be getting ready to leave

I am thankful for... my health, and the better than expected test results this week

I am wearing...jeans, black & grey striped top, black bolero, red heels and red elk necklace

I am going to...go out for High Tea very shortly

I am currently reading... At Home with the Templetons

I am hoping... that the sun is shining tomorrow

On my mind...sewing and how I need to do it!

From the kitchen... nothing, I could do with some water though!

Around the house... lots of clean washing that I really need to put away
One of my favorite things...my new canvas from Kate :)

A few plans for the rest of the week...Going to the royal adelaide show, gym, getting myself organised for round 3 of 12wbt

One photo to share..

Flowers from the Farmers Market last weekend. Iris' remind me so much of my Nana.

Happy Sunday,
xx Lauren

Friday Pinterest Finds

2011-09-02T16:59:00.001+09:30

This gave me a giggle...I may or may not have made some poor choices earlier in the week.

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Lesson Learnt: When you lose a large-ish amount of weight a 'few' drinks has a much faster effect on you than previous experience showed...whoops!

Happy Friday!
xx Lauren

Springing up Bargains

2011-09-01T16:24:00.001+09:30

How gorgeous is the weather at the moment, I've dragged the computer outside to soak up the sunshine and make the most of it.
Yesterday I went to visit the lovely Kate, who in turn took me to visit her local Vinnie's, which was an absolute treasure trove.
I spent a total of $13 and bought...

3 pairs of jeans ($2 each) to be turned into dresses for Green Dandelion.

An old copy of Little Women ($1), I love Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy and already have a copy of the novel so this one will be going into the 'craft' pile to be cut up at some stage :)

A trendy guys shirt ($2), not really sure what I'm going to do with it, but I liked the pattern and will pop it in with the Green Dandelion collection.

A fabulous stitching book ($2) so that I can work on crossing off that goal to learn to crochet!
and then the piece-de-resistance...

Photo by the lovely Kate!

A vintage, Italian leather jacket ($2). When the guy at the counter said $2 I did double check that he was right, the tag said $20, and it was on the half price rack, so I was figuring $10, still a baragain, but he insisted that it was $2. Ok then :) Its very 80's with big shoulders and fitted down the bottom, but it is so soft and lovely I think I will make it work.
Then if I hadn't shopped enough I dropped into my local RSPCA opshop today and picked up this 70's polyester Kaftan number. I think it might even be a nightie but I love the pattern and the trim on the arms is very retro cool, so figure with a wide belt pulling it in I can hopefully pull it off for spring!

I also learnt that taking an outfit selfie is rather hard! Anybody have any tips??
Have you found any good op shop buys lately?? or better yet if you're in Adelaide do you know of an op shop I should visit??
Happy Spring!
xx Lauren

Katy Perry - Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)

2011-09-01T09:56:00.000+09:30

Random song to be sharing, but Last Friday Night has been stuck in my head all week...and I figured I would share the love.
Friday night I was in the car with Tatum & family when Charlotte piped up to tell us she was writing down from memory the lyrics to Katy Perry's Last Friday Night, but what does T.G.I.F stand for? My clever brother-in-law quickly piped up with Toes.Go.In.First and it has been making me giggle ever since. TGIF will never be the same again :)
Plus the Kenny G saxophone solo totally rocks and an appearance from Hanson :)

What have you been listening to this week? Did you have an annoying song stuck in your head?
xx Lauren

Happy Blog Day!!

2011-08-31T22:20:00.002+09:30

Today is National Blog Day! Hooray!! Its been fantastic reading about blogs other people read that I thought I would add my list too (and put off the fact that I need to get to sleep asap...I really don't want to go to work in the morning)
I recently cleaned out my google reader, ihad become ridiculous with 1000+ posts to read, which meant that I wasn't reading anything- too overwhelming! Its back to a more manageble number, with blogs that I really enjoy. For the most part my favourite blogs to read are the ones where I 'know' the person, or at least feel like I do through their writing or photos- the ones that speak to me I suppose :)
To celebrate I'm linking up with Nuffnang and sharing six blogs that I enjoy and am inspired by-
Apartment Therapy
Is fantastic for ideas and inspiration around the home.
Frankie Magazine
Frankie is one of my all-time favourite magazines and their daily blog posts are a favourite- always something quirk and interesting to read. I'm looking forward to the new Smith Journal, the blokey version on stands Monday.
Sometimes Sweet
Danielle is a Mum of 1, a school teacher and a great writer. I love reading her Tattoo Tuesday posts
Sweetpolita
Fantastic food styling and delicious recipes, reading Sweetpolita always leaves me wanting to go bake. I wish I had the patience to create the amazing cakes she does.
Tara Whitney
Tara shares her photography on her blog, along with snip its of her family. Her recent post on Thinning the Herd really spoke to me.
Pencil Box
Katie is an American artist living with her son Max and partner Matt. She shares bits of her life and the most glorious photos of her day- seriously beautiful shots.

and and extra one for goodluck...
HelloGiggles
Is almost like a magazine of blogs, everyday there are new blog post, funny stories, illustrated tweets written by a large aray of interesting people. Definitely worth checking in on everyday.

And now I really better get to sleep...the alarm will be going off far to soon!
Hope you've had a lovely day,
Lauren xo

Get With The Program- Sick Week

2011-08-28T18:26:00.000+09:30

I can honestly say that I did not feel well this week. It started on Saturday in Melbourne with a migraine like headache and blurry vision which lasted until Tuesday morning, included my usual exhaustion and some crazy hormone issues meant that I had to really push myself again this week. I did go to the doctor on Thursday and he has ordered me to get a large array of tests done and hopefully by this time next week I will closer to working out what is exactly wrong with me- because I am certainly not myself at the moment.
None the less I persevered through and made it through my training plan- with the exception of Friday where it was suggested to me by both my pt and doctor to have an extra day of rest.

This week I burnt a total of 8963 calories-
Monday- Personal Training (1059 calories)
Tuesday- Boxing (1565 calories) Pump (1614 calories)
Wednesday- Boxing (1332 calories)
Thursday- Personal Training (840 calories) *this was the day I felt like absolute death*
Friday- Rest Day
Saturday- Personal Training (1438 calories)
Sunday- Cardio (1115 calories)

Things to note this week- I didn't really break any barriers this week in my training but on Monday I did complete 1000 metres on the rower in 4:04 seconds, on level 10 resistance. I also signed up for round 3 of the 12wbt this week- I really need the kick up the bum food wise with this whole weight loss thing.

This week I plan on-
Monday- Cardio (90 minutes)
Tuesday- Boxing & Pump
Wednesday- Boxing
Thursday- Personal Training
Friday- rest day
Saturday- 30 minutes of cardio + Personal Training
Sunday- Cardio (60 minutes)

This week it is my turn to share a recipe and I have been inspired by the lovely Kate who made cold rolls earlier in the week.
Lauren's Cold Rolls & Dipping Sauce
Serves 4- 242 calories a serve

Cold Rolls
8 Rice Paper Round (22cm)
50g Vermicelli noodles, cooked via packet directions
1 cup Cabbage shredded
1 cup Capsicum thinly sliced
1 Carrot julienned
1cup Bean Shoots
2 tbsp Mint
2 tbsp Coriander
I chicken breast, butterflied and grilled, thinly sliced
Dipping Sauce
4 tbsp Hoisin Sauce
1 tbsp Crunchy peanut butter
Water
Squeeze of lime juice

Calorie count taken from Calorie King

Begin by making the dipping sauce- stir together the hoisin and peanut butter over a gentle heat, add enough water to make it smooth and runny (mine in the photo isn't a runny as I would like). Add lime juice at the end. Pour into a serving dish.

Make the cold rolls- place rice paper wrapper in a dish of warm water for 30 seconds, fill with cabbage, noodles, capsicum, carrot, bean shoots, mint, coriander and chicken. I always make the mistake of overfilling my rolls and end up with a great big mess- so beware :) If you check the back of the rice paper rounds there should be instructions on the easiest way to wrap them- but start by folding over the top, encasing the filling, wrap up the sides and then roll all the way up. Continue through these steps until you have 8 yummy cold rolls.

Serve 2 cold rolls with a spoon of the dipping sauce- Delicious!!
Change about any of the filling ingredients depending on what you have on hand and what you prefer to eat. My sister Jess hates coriander so I tried to make hers without, and they are also delicious with prawns :)

Hope you have a great week!
Don't forget to have a look at what Tatum's been up to this week, when she blogs later on tonight. She's fitted in some great beach runs this weekend in Adelaide.
xx Lauren

Today...

2011-08-28T12:22:00.002+09:30

Outside my window...sun is shining, birds are singing- its gorgeous winter day

I am thinking...my brain is in overload atm- I need to make some lists

I am thankful for... & grateful for Tatum and her heartfelt, couragous headshave on friday

I am wearing...pink canvas shoes, jeans, black top, black $2 opshop cardi & aqua scarf

I am going to... the supermarket in about 10 minutes

I am currently reading... the latest copy of Frankie

I am hoping... that my blood tests come back ok

On my mind... blogging...so many things I want to write down

From the kitchen... nothing- I need some water though

Around the house... Fresh flowers from the Farmers Market
One of my favorite things... the silent house- and Jassie wanting to stay with me this morning :)

A few plans for the rest of the week... gym, cleaning, organising, uni work, some sewing

One photo to share..

Beyond proud of my big sister!

Hope you are having a gorgeous Sunday,

xx Lauren

Friday Pinterest Find- the yellow edition

2011-08-26T15:22:00.003+09:30

Today is Daffodil Day, the day designed to raise money and give us hope for a brighter, cancer free future.
My amazing sister is shaving her head tonight after raising over $2500 for this special cause. If you wish you can go HERE and donate to Tatum's head shave, every single dollar goes to help the fight against cancer.
In honour of today I have put together some of my favourite Yellow pinterest finds.

Happy Friday,
xx Lauren

Gotye- Somebody That I Used To Know

2011-08-25T12:23:00.000+09:30

I loved Gotye song Hearts a Mess a few back, it sits predominatly in my road tripping playlist. I distinctly remember him playing the drums at the Aria's in his socks- its weird the things you file away in your brain isn't it.
I heard Somebody that I used to know a few weeks back, but in my chronic radio station flicking never actually caught who it was, until this weekend when my friend Ali played it- instant happiness! Such a beautiful sound.

"But you didn't have to cut me off
Make out like it never happened
And that we were nothing
And I don't even need your love"

Do you have a new favourite song this week??
What radio stations do you listen to- or do you flick through them like me??
xx Lauren

Lesson Learnt

2011-08-24T15:08:00.000+09:30

My Car

Yesterday I discovered that I am not invincible.
Tragic.
I knew that I was running low on petrol but in my fabulous wisdom decided that there was no way the car would actually run out- that only happens in the movies- and to my mum! Alas 5 metres from the petrol station my car stopped dead.
Playing the damsel in distress I thought I could convince someone to help me push the car just that little bit back to the petrol station, but of course no one was willing to stop.
An expensive lesson to learn...$32.75 later I had a jerry can with 5 litres of fuel, new funnel and a whole heap of mess. To ashamed to go back to the same petrol station I drove to the one 20 meters down and road and vow to never, ever ignore the flashing petrol light again.

Have you ever run out of petrol?? Did some nice person stop and help??
Please tell me I am not alone.
Hope you are having a lovely day,
xx Lauren

#girlsweekend 2011

2011-08-22T18:19:00.001+09:30

This weekend I went on my annual (two years in a row makes it annual right?!) trip to Melbourne with three of my gorgeous girlfriends, Ali, Kirsten and Bec. We picked up cheap plane flights on a whim and Kirsten organised us special accomodation at the Sofitel thanks to fantastic Accor staff perks.

After we finally arrived in Melbourne (4 hours sitting in the plane for the 1 hour flight was not high on the list of things to begin the weekend) we took ourselves off the the museum to see the Tutankhamum exhibition, we wandered along Brunswick street and I finally went into the fabric shop I was ogling at the other week. We drank champagne, went out for a fancy dinner- Ali's smoked Patagonia toothfish was amazing!, drank espresso martini's in the casino bar, collapsed into the worlds most comfortable bed, slept for a whole 8 hours (first in many weeks), ate more delicious food, shopped Bridge Road, drank more coffee, gazed at our amazing view from the 46th floor, ate in china town and spent time being together.

It was absolutely fantastic and good for my soul. I now feel recharged and ready to start tackling my growing list of jobs!
Thankyou for an amazing weekend girls...I say lets book in for May 2012?!

Tonight there is an auction on Verri Charmed to raise funds for Tatum's headshave on friday. There are gorgeous items up for grabs and all proceeds will go to a fantastic cause, the auction will run from 8pm (sa time) tonight until 9pm (sa time) Wednesday.

Hope you are having a lovely monday, I'm off to play netball and then hit the gym to work off some of the champagne calories :)
xx Lauren

Get with the program - Pushing myself

2011-08-20T18:00:00.000+09:30

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I had to push myself hard this week. Everyday on my drive to the gym I was running through all the different excuses as to why I could go home and curl up on the couch...I was tired, I was feeling sick, I had a headache, I could go later, I went yesterday, no one would know if I missed it...seriously ALL the excuses I could come up with. On monday I even sat in the carpark for a couple of minutes trying to find the reason why I could go home. But I didn't, I put my shoes on, one foot in front of the other and trained everyday because I will not fail!

This week I trained Monday- Friday, before I left on Saturday for a girls weekend in Melbourne. I burnt a total of 8648 calories-
Monday- Cardio (1319 calories)/ PT 45 minutes (1196 calories)
Tuesday- Cardio 30 minutes & Pump (2088 calories)
Wednesday- Boxing (1307 calories)
Thursday- PT 45 minutes (1263 calories)
Friday- Cardio (1475 calories)

The best part is always at the end of a work out when you hit that hour mark and know that you have done your job. I am going to take myself to the doctor this week. After feeling exhausted for over a month and some random brusies popping up on my legs (when I'm not a person that brusies easily) I think I should probably get myself checked out and make sure I am all healthy. I'm thinking that with my increased fitness levels I shouldn't be as tired as I am, but at the same time I'm struggling to remember that last time I had more than 5 hours sleep and perhaps its just an effect of that. -note to self get to bed earlier!-

This week I plan on:
Monday- Cardio/Netball/PT
Tuesday- Boxing/Pump
Wednesday- Boxing
Thursday-PT
Friday- Cardio
Saturday-PT
Sunday-Cardio

Lots of exercise planned for this week, mostly to counter-act my weekend of fun in Melbourne and because I had the opportunity to have 3 different personal traning (all with my trainer Stefan) and thought it was a good opportunity. Monday and Saturday's pt are shared with my little sister Jess which adds a different dimension too- and makes it cheaper :) This week I am also going to make sure I take my measurements, its time check in on whats happening there.

Tatum has been cooking up a storm all week and is sharing a fabulous recipe on her blog today along with her progress for the week. Hop on over and check it out!

What exercise have you been up to this week? Have you been Getting with the program too?? Please share with us- we need lots of motivation too :)

Happy Sunday,
xx Lauren

Friday Pinterest Finds

2011-08-19T20:28:00.001+09:30

Happy Friday!!
So now that I am at the tail of my jet-setting I am looking forward to having some time to get down and crafty. So many ideas and so little time (I'm still desperately trying to catch up on my uni work...nearly there!!)
Pins from my Crafty Stuff pin board...inspiration overload!

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Are you up to anything crafty this weekend??
Or are you on pinterest and I'm not following you...please let me know so I can! <3 finding new boards to follow.

I'm off to back my suitcase and get read for an early, early flight to Melbourne in the morning. A long time coming girls weekend. We have tickets to the Tutankhamum exhibition at the museum, a booking for a fancy restaurant dinner, shopping and market plans, a visit to the casino and generally just a fabulous time! Its been too long since I had the chance to just hang out with these girls! Its going to be fabulous...as long as I can work out what on earth to pack and how to do in on board luggage only eeek!!

Have a gorgeous weekend,
xx Lauren

The Living End - Pictures in the Mirror

2011-08-18T13:19:00.001+09:30

At least 10 years ago (I can't actually remember when, it was probably earlier than that) I came home from school one day to ask Dad if he would please buy me a cd from this band I had just discovered The Living End. Being the cool music guy my dad is, he promptly went to the cd draw and pulled out the cd for me! Thus the beginning of my love for Chris, Scott and Andy- and the double bass. Seriously if you know a guy who is a) ridicously tall b) has a shaved head and c) plays the double bass please send him my way :)
It impossible to pick my favourite The Living End song, but Pictures in the Mirror is associated with some good memories so that is my pick for today.

What are you listening to today?? Is there a band that is still your favourite after many years?? Happy Thursday,

xx Lauren

Shaving for Cancer

2011-08-17T17:30:00.000+09:30

My sister Tatum is pretty damn amazing.
She is fabulously creative, she is kind, loving and shares so much. She is so very passionate in what she believes in and she is an incredible mumma to her four kids. I am beyond lucky to have her as a best friend.

Next week she is shaving her head for Daffodil Day and the Australian Cancer Council.
You are able to read her reasons HERE and you are able to go HERE to donate to the cause. Tatum is aiming to raise over $2500 and she is already 63% of the way there.
Friday is the big day and we are organising a cocktail party to shave Tatum's head, you can find details HERE and email Tatum to RSVP.

To coincide with the shave, one of my other fabulous sisters Sam is hosting an auction on Verri Charmed, please keep an eye out over the next couple of days, the auction will begin on Monday 22nd August and she has some gorgeous things up for grabs.

Thankyou,
xx Lauren

Get With the Program

2011-08-14T16:48:00.002+09:30

Oh man! What a week, I had all sorts of fabulous plan that fell in a heap when I discovered on tuesday I had a uni assignment due on wednesday (I handed it in on friday) and had sewing for saturday's market to do too (and I still didn't get the sewing finished!) So as a result I didn't have a chance to make the recipe and take a fabulous photo to share. None the less I have a recipe for you (and it is better than what I had planned!)

Thankfully my planned training happened. This week I burnt a total of 8402 calories by-
Monday: Cardio 90 minutes (1773 calories)
Tuesday: Boxing (1452 calories)/ Pump (1445 calories)
Wednesday: Boxing (1507 calories)
Thursday: Personal Training 45 minutes (1160 calories)
Friday: Rest Day
Saturday: Cardio (1065 calories)
Sunday: Didn't make it (sick...*cough* *cough* hungover)
*Things I want to remember from this week- I did 8 chin-ups without my trainers help, 500m on the rower in 2:02 seconds, it was pointed out to me that I can actually run- and do run- even though I'm insisiting its impossible so I need to stop using that excuse and get my arse into gear with the c25k program. Exercising post market day is really really hard, but just showing up at the gym makes it happen!

This week things are a little quieter so making it to the gym shouldn't be an issue. I plan on doubling up as much as possible though, to make up for today and I am off to Melbourne on Saturday for a girls weekend and will be having a good time :)
I plan to:
Monday: Cardio/PT
Tuesday: Boxing/Pump
Wednesday: Boxing
Thursday: Cardio/PT
Friday: Cardio

The recipe I want to share with you comes from Michelle Bridges "Crunch Time Cookbook". I'm a huge salad fan, they are quick, easy and incredibly tasty. This is one of my favourite salads and most of the ingredients are usually hanging around my place.
Beetroot, Chickpea, Basil and Fetta Salad

Serves 2
315 calories per serve
440g can whole Baby Beetroot, drained and sliced in half (268 calories)
400g can of Chickpeas, drained and rinsed (214 calories)
4 handfuls of baby spinich (47 calories)
1/4 red onion thinly sliced (8 calories)
2 tbsp torn basil (1 calorie)
40g Reduced fat fetta (93 calories)
Pepper

Combine beetroot, chickpeas, spinich, onion and basil in a salad bowl.
(If you want tip it out onto a serving platter now)
Sprinkle over the fetta and season with freshly ground black pepper.
If you need some dressing, a splash of balsamic goes nicely.

I also make variations of this salad (normally when I'm using up things from the fridge and pantry) and substitute the chickpeas for a tin of lentils (305 calories) instead, or I change the fetta for ricotta (47 calories for 3tbsp of extra light). When you're feeding more people adding some grilled chicken breast (165 calories for 100g grilled) is a great way to stretch out the salad and another variationg is to substituing the beetroot for 300g of roasted pumpkin (156 calories).
Calorie counts are from Calorie King

Tatum will be posting about her week soon, we've had a busy weekend together taking Green Dandelion to market and tonight we are having a special mexican fiesta with Kate and Jane to work on some exciting plans.
Don't forget to let us know what fitness plans you've been making or if you make our recipes, we would love to share them with everyone.

Have a fantastic week!
xx Lauren

Friday Pintrest Finds

2011-08-12T15:19:00.001+09:30

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Team that poster with the words from Bob Harper on Chantelles blog today

"Decide that you're worth it enough. If there has to be someone in your corner, it has to be you."

and that is my message of the day :)

Hope you are having a happy, sunshiney day!

Oh and one last reminder that I will be at Mathilda's Market tomorrow (Saturday 13th August) from 9-1 with Green Dandelion. If you're in Adelaide and have a chance please pop in and say hi!

xx Lauren

Foo Fighters- Walk

2011-08-11T16:14:00.002+09:30

I am lucky enough to have tickets to the Foo Fighters concert in December, along with 2 of my sisters (Sam are you sure you can't buy a ticket?? There are still Gold GA avaliable!!) 3 of my lovely friends and a couple of other great people I know! Its good to know we have fabulous music taste :)
Love love LOVE the film clip for Walk- it makes me smile, Dave Grohl is just awesome!

What Music are you listening to this week??
xx Lauren

Be Confident

2011-08-10T14:24:00.001+09:30

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xx Lauren

Random Fears

2011-08-09T15:00:00.004+09:30

There is no hiding the fact that I am a little weird, I'm happy to embrace it, I figure it makes me an individual and thought I would share some of my completely random, silly fears...and its the reasons that make me just that little bit more weird :)
Moths

I can not stand them, having to look at a picture of one makes my heart start to race. I know I'm not alone with fear moths, but the reason why might be somewhat unique...I fear that the scary moths are trying to eat me alive (don't laugh!).

Escalators

I hate using them- specifically when going down, I always fear that I will fall over and crash to the bottom, embarrassing myself.

Elevators

Getting into a very full lift gets my heart racing...I will much prefer to take the stairs! (Oh and its not a fear of being stuck in a a lift, and I have been before, its more the claustrophobia)

Ladders

The thought of climbing a ladder freaks me right out- I don't like the unpredictability of them...I don't feel safe at all! I feel the same standing on a chair, but its not the height thing, I like being up high.

Massages in shopping centres
.

Last week my intense need for a massage made me try and conquer this one, but it certainly wasn't a relaxing experience! I'm not sure what I fear the most about having a massage in a shopping centre, but it freaks me right out!

So there you go, a few really random bits about me.
Do you have any random fears??
All images from Pinterest

xx Lauren
(Oh and I must add, I will never be able to come back and read this post- the painting of the moths is freaking me right out, as in when I scroll to the top of the post I'm looking in the other direction!)

Get With The Program

2011-08-07T19:58:00.002+09:30

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Before I starting jetsetting all over the place I was trying to record all my weekly exercise, keeping a dairy of where I was at, where I'd been, and where I was heading- making myself accountable. Along with this I have been following the Michelle Bridges 12 Week Body Transformation. I can not give enough praise for how wonderful the program is- there is no hidden magic pill to it, it teaches you that to lose weight you need to eat less (and healthy) and move more (and often). It has changed my life!

edited to add: I was asked how much Michelle Bridges 12wbt is, Kate answered in the questions for me, but I thought I would mention it here too- it is $200 or there is a weekly payment program too. If you click on the link above you can find out more information, you can also check out the facebook page. Pre-season for round 3 begins next week- I'm signing up again :)

Tatum followed the same program last year and when we were talking about it recently we came up with the plan to turn it into a bit of a feature and take it in turns each week bringing you a recipe of 400 calories or less, along with our excercise diary- I'm going to share both the results and plan for the week ahead. This week you can head over the Tatum's blog to see her delicious recipe for Singapore Noodles.

This week I burnt a total of 8023 Calories by:
Monday: Cardio (1304 Calories)
Tuesday: Boxing (1610 Calories) /Pump (1272 Calories)
Wednesday: Boxing (1594 calories)
Thursday: PT (1111 calories)
Friday: Rest Day
Saturday: PT (1132 calories)
Sunday: Market Day- run out of time :(

In the coming week I plan on:
Monday: Cardio
Tuesday: Boxing/ Pump
Wednesday: Boxing
Thursday: PT
Friday: Rest Day
Saturday: Cardio
Sunday: Cardio

So lets see how the week goes- I can't wait to share my recipe with you next Sunday!
We would love it if you wanted to join us and Get with the Program, as Tatum said we can all help each other get our mindset right!

Have a fabulous healthy week,
xx Lauren

Pinterest Friday Finds

2011-08-05T16:29:00.001+09:30

With all the travelling lately, and my new found addiction to twitter (follow me @laurenboase) I haven't spent any where near as much time on pinterest than I have in previous weeks.
So today I am sharing some old favourites out of my pinterest file s-


I have mean love for rainbows and pyrex :)


Life really is awesome!

One of my favourite Beatles tunes <3

All of todays images have been taken from here, you can check them out along with the ~~millions~~ thousand-odd pin's I have anytime you'd like :)
Now I'm back to the sewing table...Green Dandelion's first appearance at Lollipop Market is less than 48 hours away...eeek!

Happy Friday!!

xx Lauren

Paper and Glue

2011-08-03T10:38:00.001+09:30

A couple of weeks ago I travelled with Tatum, Ali and Lou to Camp Mojo in the Hunter Valley.
A long weekend of creating, giggling and drinking wine out of plastic cups.

Camp Mojo challenge "A song Title"

Photo by the gorgeous dQ, Sue's July sketch challenge at e2c

Photo by dQ, challenge by Amanda at e2c

The weekend made me remember how much I love playing with paper & glue and how much I need to make time to play some more.

What have you been creating lately??

Happy Tuesday,
xx Lauren

Are you Ready?

2011-08-02T13:59:00.005+09:30

I heard Are You Ready? on the plane to Sydney the other week. Fatty Gets A Stylist is the amazing Kate Miller-Heidke and her husband Keir Nuttal. I think its all kinds of fun with a very cute film clip...granted it may just spin you out if you watch it after a few vodkas!

"have you got your coat?
and some lippy on?
just keep it simple

are you all cashed up?
i can lend you some ?
well i'd be glad to

have you had a think
and a warm up drink
now! now! now! now!"

What new music have you discovered lately??
xx Lauren

Nuffnang Blogopolis

2011-07-31T13:43:00.001+09:30

What an amazing weekend.
Inspiring, Motivating and Fun!

I am so keen to make some changes, improvements and put into place all the different things I learnt about- I scribbled notes like a mad woman at times. You can check out The Blog Stylist for her live posts from yesterday to find out all about what was discussed.

At this very moment I am burning the new MOR cosmetics candle I recived as a prize at the Hello Blogger Events drinks on Friday Night. I think the Danielle's did a fantastic job of organising the pre-blogopolis event, even though it was hard to hear what the person next to you was saying it was still fabulous to meet new people and the flicker pro account will be put to good use too! Thankyou Girls!! xx

The after-drinks were fabulous, even though we trapsed around in circles finding it, the venue was gorgeous- I fell in love with the space age bathroom tap! At that stage of the day I felt more relaxed and chatted to lots of new people, meeting some fabulous bloggers.

Thankyou Nuffnang for putting on a great day!
And now I must get a wriggle on with the Green Dandelion sewing...market #1 is in 7 sleeps...eeek!!

xx Lauren

A Little Bit of Me

February in Photos so far...

My funeral songs

Friday Pinterest Finds: Some Time

Tunes on a Thursday

Today

Friday Pinterest Finds: Dreams

Smashing It

Dedication to my ex- Lloyd ft Andre 3000 & Lil Wayne

What the future holds

The Black Keys- Lonely Boy

Moving my feet- the first jog

Pinterest Friday Finds- Regret

A Thursday Post

Superstitious Minds

#JANphotoaday - Day One

The closing moments of 2011

Pinterest Friday Find: Pride

Thankful for new friends

Pinterest Friday Finds- The Truth

John Lennon- Happy Xmas (War is Over)

12wbt finale disappointment

Couscous & Broccoli

For the love of boxing

Four Sisters

Pinterest Friday Find- Be Yourself

Foo Fighters- Everlong

The Mighty Might Bosstones - The Impression That I Get

The Old Wives Tale

Creating Goals

Today: I am here

Pinterest Friday Finds: Friends

My OTT Christmas Wishlist...

Moving On and Moving Up

Friday Pinterest Finds: The Next Chapter

Bon Jovi- It's My Life

Friday Pinterest Finds: Wish Upon a Star

Lest We Forget

Culture Club- Karma Chameleon

Proud of you!

I Am Famous

The Chicken Schnitzel that wasn't

Blog Silence

I should not be on the computer...

My Reading Pile

Titanium - David Guetta featuring Sia

10 Random Things I Really Must Tell You

Going Home

Foster The People - Pumped Up Kicks

***dance dance dance***

Its Friday...again...really?!

The things that annoy me greatly

Friday Pinterest Finds

Simple Minds Don't You (Forget About Me)

Discombobbulated

Get With The Program- An ordinary weigh-in

52 Weeks of Mail

Today

Pinterest Friday Finds

Get With The Program- Enjoying the Moments

Op-shop Gold!

Pinterest Friday Finds

Florence + The Machine - What The Water Gave Me

Teacups for Heartkids

Humor Me...please

Get With The Program- Running into the Ground

Pinterest Friday Finds

Rufus Wainwright - Across The Universe

RUOK?

10 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

Say it out loud!

Get With The Program- Injured??

Friday Pinterest Finds

Lior - This Old Love

Goal #7

Get With The Program- Pottering Along

Today

Friday Pinterest Finds

Springing up Bargains

Katy Perry - Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)

dance dance dance