STAYCATION REVIEW @ ATURA, BLACKTOWN Ft.SKYLINE DRIVE IN + ROYAL CRICKETERS ARM'S PUB

Instagram and blogging has brought me and my partner to various venues, events, trying various products and testing various food. This is by far the most exciting collaboration we have ever done.
Two weeks ago, we began our Staycation journey at Atura Blacktown. My partner and I were both raised in the south of Sydney so we haven't really had the opportunity to venture out to the Greater West other than for work. 

I don't have a car space in my apartment so we typically get around by foot, uber or public transport. Occasionally - and this is quite rare - we would take a 40 min train ride back to my parent's place to pick up my car and drive to our destination. We did this for a friend's wedding down in Kiama. I checked google maps and we decided it was do-able by public transport. Our train ride to Blacktown was swift and pleasant, we got onto the bus at Blacktown Shopping Centre, neither of us were paying attention so we ended up doing a loop and ended up back at Blacktown Shopping Centre. After much deliberation we finally decided to take an Uber, the driver dropped us off at Atura safely within 10 minute. That's when I started to missed my little desheveled Yaris as it would have only took 45 driving minutes from Sydney CBD. The bottom line is, bring a car because you will want to treat yourself to Skyline Drive in just next door. 

As we entered Atura we saw a funky reception desk, received a very friendly greeting alongside our swipe cards to our room. To the right of the reception there were families sitting on the lounge, playing a game of pool and kids versing each other on a tabletop arcade machine. To be honest, we didn't have time to research Atura before we arrived so we weren't too sure what to expect. We made our way into the lift, there were 2 levels.

As soon as we opened the door to our hotel room we were both in awe. Only 3 weeks ago we spent 2 weeks in 6 different hotels traveling through Europe - design wise, they were all quite standard. So we were pleasantly surprised to see something different, some quirky, urban and industrial inspired. 

Our room had the following facilities:

- Complimentary High speed wifi

- Coffee pod machine with complimentary capsules

- Complimentary milk, tea and coffee

- Work desk area

- 42inch flat screen LCD TV with Foxtel

- Fully equipped kitchenette with cooking elements (including Microwave, kettle, cutlery and a sink)

- Mini bar

- In-room safe

- Telephone with voicemail

- Controlled air conditioning

- Iron and ironing board

We loved the colour schemes, the prints, décor and furniture.  We spent a good amount of time looking through everything, checking out the mini bar and studying the prints on the wall. I especially liked the print behind the couch.

I would say that this is probably the quirkiest hotel we have been to thus far.
An overnight stay is extremely affordable - check Atura's website for a quote! There are twin rooms, king rooms and accessible rooms.

The bathroom was well equipped with a luxurious range of amenities from Malin & Goetz. Toothbrush and toothpaste are not included so make sure you don't forget - I often make this mistake. If you need a straightening iron you can borrow a GHD from reception - I KNOWWWWW!!!!!! Atura have really thought of everything.

After we settled down in our hotel rooms, we decided to go down to the pool for a wander. We found beautifully coloured sun decks and a floating peacock in the pool!! There was also a pin pong table away from the pool in case you want a game!

We enjoyed a beautiful dinner at the RoadHouse Bar and Grill located on the ground floor of Atura Blacktown. We were served a range of salads, protein and of course, our favourite - Salmon! Following our dinner, we headed off to our surprise event at Skyline Drive in, because we did not have a car, Jenn kindly organised for us to use the hotel's 1960s Cadillac!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SKYLINE DRIVE IN

Let me tell you a little about Skyline Drive in - it is one of the two last surviving drive in cinemas in Australia and the only drive in cinema in Sydney. The functionality will bring back memories, you will find staff greeting you at the entrance, providing you with an old school admission ticket. There is a retro style candy bar where you can purchase your snacks or hot chips before the movie. Skyline screenings are available 7 days a night showing movies after from 6pm. If you decide to go on a weekend, make sure to arrive early as there is likely to be a long car queue! 

Pricing as per below:

1 Car with 1 person $12.50
1 Car with 2 people $25.00  
1 Car with 3 people $37.50 
1 Car with 4 people $50.00 
1 Car with 5 people $62.50 
1 Car with 6 people $75.00

There is an additional $1.20 booking fee per vehicle.

We watched Jurassic World and it was an incredible experience, our very first time at a Drive In and doing it right in a Cadillac! There were 2 movies screening at the same time, the other movie was The Incredibles. This is hands down, one of the best date night ideas, you can turn it into something even more special with an overnight stay at Atura (5min walk). 

ROYAL CRICKETERS ARM HOTEL

The Royal Cricketers Arm's Pub is a historical heritage listed building that was first licensed in 1880, the pub was recently refurbished to cater for all visitors. This pub is fantastic for families, friends, workplace functions and other celebrations. Why? Because there's no gaming room, no TAB and no pool table. Thus, an opportunity to spend quality time with your friends/family and enjoy food from the pub's extensive menu, from Poke Bowls to Schnitzel with chips. Open 7 days per week for lunch and dinner. Look out for nightly specials from $15 and Sunday roasts! Oh not to mention your ears will love the live music.

What else is amazing about this pub? It's only a 2 minute walk from Atura!!!

We had the opportunity to taste the new menu a was incredibly spoiled with the generous spread - I may have had 2 blueberry cheesecake servings. We were literally in food heaven. I especially liked the Poke Bowl with fresh salmon and brown rice. Yum!

We easily spent a few hours hanging out at Royal Cricketers Arm Pub filling our bellies, listening to live music and sipping mixed Tanqueray. 

WEBSITES:

Atura Blacktown
Skyline Drive in
Royal Cricketers Arms Pub

Lily not Louise attended this event as a guest of Atura Blacktown, Skyline Drive in and Royal Cricketers Arms Pub

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TRAFALGAR TOURS

I recently went on my first Trafalgar Tour  - Highlights of Austria, Slovenia and Croatia. It's still fresh in my mind so I thought I better blast out this post, so those of you who would like to book a Trafalgar trip will know what to expect. This post is around the general logistic of things, I will break down EACH country we visited (6 in total - yes 6!).


BOOKING

I booked directly through Trafalgar. My tour peers from the US recommended for me to book through a travel agent in the future. They advised that travel agents are often able to obtain better deals through their wholesale prices and in turn, provide further discounts. I am unsure whether this is the case for Aussies.

The person responsible for my tour bookings was absolutely fantastic. She was my main contact person for any booking enquiries. She managed my last minute change like a dream. Mum was suppose to come with me on this trip, unfortunately she was too sick with the flu to fly. So the afternoon before, my contact person helped me changed all the bookings and flight (which we had to pay extra) for my partner to travel with me instead.

We did Singapore on our own and the amount of planning and booking was a little bit insane. Having someone else book our flights and the whole shebang was fantastic. My contact person was extremely professional, very empathetic and was very on top of things. I was SO stressed but she reassured me and even gave me her personal number so she is more accessible to me!!

THE COACH, THE DRIVER AND THE TRAVEL DIRECTOR

The coach is a luxury coach with comfy reclining seats. There is an on-board toilet it was not encouraged for use other than for emergency. There are seat belts on each seat. The coach can carry 48 passengers. Air con and heating system included as well as sun protecting blinds.

Our coach driver was with us for approximately 12 days before he needed his legal days off. Our driver was fantastic, he drove the bus like an absolute pro through the tight winding roads of Slovenian villages. We felt incredibly safe and he was always on time. Oh not to mention he was also the one loading all our heavy luggage.

Our travel director did a great job planning everything for 48 people. We had a hard time planning for 3 to Singapore, imagine planning for 48!!!! He provided great knowledge and insight about the history of EU during our trip. We again, felt safe and well looked after. Our tour director would also purchase small local sweets for us to taste - this was included in the budget. But we thought it was really nice! At each hotel our Tour Director will put up an info sheet as per below regarding schedules:

The one and only criticism we have was when it was time to provide written feedback, we all sat on the bus and had a pep talk about how we should think about all the good things and not to focus on the negative. This tactic may be effective on some but on others it can result in reverse psychology where people feel pressured in giving negative feedback.

MEALS

Approximately 50% of the meals for the entire trip. The cost of our tour included 100% daily buffet breakfast at the hotel. We received 6 dinners and 1 lunch which was a "Be My Guest" lunch where we enjoyed local home cooked-style lunch and hospitality. It was one of my highlight.

I found the food provided in Trafalgar's chosen restaurants were either Ok or sub par. This may be because as a food instagrammer, I am spoiled for choice and the standards of food in Sydney are quite high.

Overall huge portions, you won't be hungry that's for sure.

If you are vegetarian, vegan, lactose intolerant, diabetic etc - let your travel directors know. My partner is a non-meat eater, we were lucky that the countries we went to were coastal with an excellent range of seafood. Gluten free goers can be tough, we had a lady who was gluten free and food variety was a little bit more limited.

HOTELS

We stayed at the following hotels: The Hilton, Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort, Park Hotel in Lake Bled, Jezero Hotel, Ariston Hotel, The Westin.

Our rooms were mostly up to scratch. The hotels itself were generally nice with excellent views from breakfast. Our room in Hvar was a bit smelly, our balconies were either facing the car park or some concrete. I heard a couple of people received beach views. Apparently if you are willing to fork out to upgrade to a beach view room, you can pay extra but make sure to advise Trafalgar way in advance because hotels in Hvar are booked out very quickly.

THE INCLUDED TOURS

Included tours went for about an hour in each major city we went to. These were usually let by "Local Specialists" - I will touch on this later.

We each received a VoxBox so we can listen to what the guides are saying while we are on our walking tours. This device is fantastic, I've only been on one other international tour and we all had to gather around the guide whilst having difficulty hearing what they are saying, the device it reminds me of an old Walkman set.

FREE TIME

You will get approximately 1 hour. After the Local Specialist's guided tour, you will be given

DRIVING

A LOT of driving and time on the coach was involved take it this way, our driver drove close to 3000km in 12 days. However they will break out driving time nicely. i.e., we drove from Dubrovnik to Zagreb which took over 8hrs. We took a break every 1hr 45mins. I pretty much slept through most of the driving after taking Travel calm for long drives.

CURRENCY

Other than Croatia, all other countries we visited accepted Euros. However we found that in Croatia a lot of places also accepted Euros - they would convert the currency - sometimes it works out better some times it didn't.

The exchange rate was
1AUD = 0.615 EU
1EU = 7.3KUNAs
1AUD = Approx 4.5-4.8KUNAs

DO NOT exchange your currency at airport, we were ripped off badly. For 200 KUNAs they charged $120AUD. Partly our fault that we didn't do our research in advance and were quite desperate to have Kunas prepared.

Trafalgar is very accommodating, they will recommend where to get our money converted and the local tour guide, also known as "Local Specialists" will point out the currency exchange provider in town  for the best rate. We converted 30euros in Split for 200 Kunas.


OPTIONAL TOURS and LOCAL SPECIALISTS

There were 10 optional tours, I personally think they are of good value compared to the cost of some of the local tours. We were asked to pick all the tours we wanted to do on the 2nd or 3rd day. This was difficult cos we weren't sure what to expect so we decided to do ALL of it. There was only ONE optional experience in which we felt was unnecessary - Panoramic Cavtat in Dubrovnik. Most people felt sick on the boat from Dubrovnik to Cavtat. When we got to Cavtat we were let lose and directed where to eat. Depends on the purpose of your travels, we wanted to learn about the arts, history and culture of places. At the end of this optional experience we were quite confused and sea sick - we didn't really understand what the significance of Cavtat was.

We picked up a local specialist at pretty much every Country/City/Town we went to. Local Specialists are native to the area, some of them were selected by our Travel Director, others may be recruited via a different travel agency. I am unsure how they specifically source local specialists, but most of the local specialists provided real expert inside knowledge about the history, culture, architecture etc etc. The only Local Specialist we were unhappy about is the one in Dubrovnik, the fact that she was quite disengaged and mopey was a different story, but she missed out on quite a few facts and details that we had to later google when we got back to our hotel.

We LOVED our Local Specialist Tamara in Slovenia she was very cheeky and a bundle of joy, as well as Neville in Zagreb, very very knowledgably and insightful. I learned a lot about Marshall Tito.

DEMOGRAPHIC

Most of our tour companions were retired, I would say that the median age is between 63-64y.o There was a family with their teenage daughter and a couple in their 20s on their honeymoon.

There were people from all around the world, Australia, NZ, S. Africa, Canada, US, India and Singapore.

PRICE BREAKDOWN

Flight
During my booking period, there was a fab flight deal - $699AUD return flights per person. via Qatar airline. The average cost of a return airfare from to Europe is approximately $1500

The Tour
I purchased the optional Gold Seal Protection which was $198AUD (for 2 people) which was for cancellation, unfortunately this didn't cover last minute cancellation which is understandable. I've been on cruises where someone didn't turn up and they were only able to refund taxes. This is an optional purchase, this is NOT travel insurance.

The tour package itself was $4525AUD per person this included some of the guided tours, transfers to and from the airport (at scheduled times only, i.e., we landed at 7am and the transfer bus wasn't till 10am), all transport via a comfy coach throughout the tour, all hotel costs, some guided tours of the main destinations, approximately 50% meals, all porterage, all taxes and your Travel Director to handle on tour logistics to be with everyone at all times during the tour.

Prepaid Gratuities

This was an optional choice, we decided to prepay at $170AUD per person OR you can chose to tip your travel director and bus driver at the end of your trip. We were happy that we pre-paid as our bus travel and travel director were fantastic and definitely deserved the recommended rate, if not more.

Discounts

For this trip, we received a total of $100 discount. I am sure there can be other discounts if you dig around.


If I missed anything, or if there is anything else you would like to know, leave a comment below and I will try my best to answer it!

The Ultimate 3 Step Weekend Pamper with ESPA

Weekend is the time to unwind, cleanse, recharge and prepare for a new week. As corny as it sounds, it's true for me anyway! If I had a bad week, I would spend my weekend decluttering my apartment - throwing things out is therapeutic for me, it is on par with self pampering. With age, I find myself to feel more exhausted and tired after work - possibly also because I spend a lot more time in front of a computer with my current job compared to my previous role where I was out assessing clients 65% of the working week. It still surprises me how draining sitting in an office can be. I find myself to have cut back on blogging because the last thing I want to do when I get home is to turn on my laptop and blog. So I want to make sure I relax for at least half a day on the weekend so I can find love in my hobbies again rather than feeling tired and drained.

This is a 3 step pamper session to renew, relax and replenish. Just make sure you cleanse your face and body thoroughly because putting on any product!

Winter sucks the life out of my skin, I wake up to dry chapped and dehydrated skin, skin so terrible I end up breaking out. As much as I enjoy putting on winter coats, beanies and scarves I hate having scale-like chapped skin. ESPA Optimal Skin Pro-serum is your one stop shop for intense hydration and nourishment, this serum works to strengthen our skin's moisture barrier and help even skin tone while enhancing elasticity. Ingredients include Echium oil, sunflower concentrate, white lupin and turmeric. Following my serum, I always lock it in with a moisturiser, ESPA 24 Hour Replenishing Moisturiser is a rich and hydrating moisturiser that works to soften your skin and prevent early signs of ageing, this product is great for those with a minimal amount of fine lines and for winter use. Ingredients include Myrrh, Frankincense, Neroli, Vitamin E, Evening primrose and Jojoba. You will achieve the ultimate silky skin with this luxurious moisturiser.

I remember adults recommending body moisturiser to me when I was a teen. I never really moisturised my body until I hit my mid 20s, I suddenly realised there's no point age proofing my face if the rest of my body is lagging, body butter will to help prevent signs of aging and lines where there shouldn't be lines. I moisturise the crap out of my hands, neck and décolletage.   ESPA Smooth and Firm Body Butter had always received raving reviews, this body butter is rich and works to smooth and tone, leaving your skin soft and supple. Ingredients include Pumpkin Seed Extract to smooth and firm, Rosehip/Argan Oil and Vitamin E to even your skin tone. The butter is scented with Rose, Patchouli and Mandarin Essential Oils for a true spa like experience.

You can find all 3 times from Ry.com.au 

Brand List: https://www.ry.com.au/brands/espa.list

PR Samples featured

$240 EYE CREAM!!!

When I was a teen, I told my mum that I'd be satisfied using $3 face creams for the rest of my life. That was of course until I discovered Sisley and added 2 extra digits into the figure. Sisley is well known for their luxurious and high quality skincare, I was head over heels with their Black Rose Cream Mask, it is now a staple in my travel kit.

I attended Sisley's product showcase a little while ago, one product peaked my interest. So, today, I wanted to chat to you guys about Sisleya Eye and Lip Contour Cream and why it is so special.

ABOUT SISLEYA EYE AND LIP CONTOUR CREAM

• A powerful anti-ageing product that works to fight wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness.
• Rich in plan extras and vitamins, especially with the use of Persian Acacia and Lindera extracts, combined with Yeast and Soy protein Complex to fight under eye wrinkles. The use of Atlas Cedar extract and Pomegranate fermented extract to help reduce the blue and brown colouration of dark circles.
• Effectively maintains skin's hydration, elasticity and toned appearance under eyes or around the lips.
• Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkes
• Helps fight against dark circles and under eye bags
• Immediate contoured results with areas becoming firmer and more toned.
• You can find dynamic duo on Sisley's website 

APPLICATION

Prep your skin with the massager (See video instruction by Sisley here) followed by cream application.

MY VERDICT

• This is an eye and lip contour cream, but I have mainly been using it under eyes, it's one of my biggest areas of concern.
• I have tried a handful of eye creams and I can tell you right now there is a huge difference between a $40 eye cream, $100 eye cream and a $240 eye cream. The common issues I found with more affordable eye creams as follows: 
• Does not sit well under foundation 
• Tend to roll off once dried
• Forms millia under my eyes
• At time causes redness or irritations
• Does not absorb well
• The texture and consistency of this eye cream is lightweight yet creamy and applies with absolute ease. It sits beautifully under my eyes and under foundation/concealer. No irritations and no millia. I have not experienced this level of smoothness from any other eye cream - it's like silk. 
• I find it really difficult to use this eye cream on a regular basis, even though this was a gifted sample, it's so luxurious and I don't want it to ever run out!!! Which is why I have been using it pre-events because it sits ever so comfortably under my makeup allowing the area to look absolutely flawless and lightweight. 
• Since my blogging journey, my skin's been pretty spoiled with a variety of skincare products. A $240 eye cream is a splurge item, for me anyway, but I know many ladies who are in a comfortable place in life where they are able to purchase one of everything from a luxury range. I personally think this is a good investment because of the limited edition gold plated massage tool that you cannot purchase anywhere else. It maintains it's naturally cool temperature in room temperature without refrigerating and very easy to clean with tissue or a wash. I went from putting packets of frozen peas under my eyes to using the massage tool, big difference. No more frostbite feels and this tool will last forever. I have been using Sisley for a while now and have quite a few of their products, they never cease to amaze me. 

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Natural Glowy Look By Illamasqua

When I worked at Myer during uni, I remember seeing the most beautiful Illamasqua boys and girls working at the counter. My colleague and I were constantly admiring this one boy who always wore the most beautiful face of makeup by Illamasqua. I cannot believe it took me so long to try the products, however thanks to Ry.com.au I finally have the opportunity to test some of Illamasqua's most highly regarded products and created a glowy look.

ILLAMASQUA HYDRA VEIL PRIMER - $57 via Ry.com.au

There is a reason why this product is SO highly rated across the web.  I don't generally prime, I think of my day cream as a primer, bad isn't it? After using Hydra Veil I realised how much BETTER my foundation applied and the level of glow I was able to achieve with ultra hydrated skin. This primer is lightweight, smooth and applies like a dream, it posses a jelly like consistency. You can use the spatula that is included with the product to scoop out the precise amount. If you have dry skin, hate patchy foundation and looking for a new primer, this could be for you.

ILLAMASQUA RICH LIQUID FOUNDATION -  $55 via Ry.com.au

Illamasqua was not kidding when they named this foundation "Rich Liquid Foundation". This may possibly be the most high coverage foundation I own, a TINY small dollop was enough for my whole face. When I first went to swatch the foundation I applied 1/8th of a pea size on my wrist and it just kept blending. The coverage is phenomenal, I couldn't see any of my freckles and did not need any concealing. I did find this foundation to give off a lot of powder following an application, perhaps it's better designed for oily skin? If you are looking for a high coverage foundation, check this out because it's ultra long lasting. Since my skin was so well hydrated it didn't really cling onto dry spots or fine lines (I am also blessed to have barely any), however if you have dry skin I would recommend you to prep your skin extra well before using this foundation.

In case you are wondering the shade I used is RF140

ILLAMASQUA BEYOND POWDER in OMG - $57 via Ry.com.au

The name really says it all, this powder is BEYOND your usual powder and the effect is OMG.
This powder can be lightly dusted all over your face for a subtle luminous look, or applied as a highlighter. For my glowy look, I did both (you can really see it around my cheekbones and brow bone)! Try layering the product for a more intense glow, or apply one layer for a more natural finish. I am absolutely in love with this powder - highlight is on fleek!

Shop Illamasqua on Ry with Free Shipping:

https://www.ry.com.au/

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GLAMOURFLAGE DARLING JODIE COLLECTION REVIEW

Darling Jodie caught my eyes with it's vintage pin up feel. Being a visual person, the packaging roped me in and I was intrigued to find out what the quality of the product inside the packaging. I have been using Darling Jodie for a few weeks now and was surprised as to how much I have enjoyed the entire range - if you want to find out my verdict about each product, keep reading!

DARLING JODIE NOURISHING CLEANSER - $19

This cleanser is formulated with Amino Acid to cleanses away facial dirt and excess oil and balances the skin pH, leaving you suppler and smoother skin without feeling dry. This cleanser is very nourishing, it's a foaming cleanser where you will need to wet your hands and rub the content between your hands to create some foam. I use mine with a cleansing device and as claimed, cleansed well and left my skin feeling very supple!

DARLING JODIE NOURISHING TONER - $28

I have been loving this liquid toner because it's not pure liquid to the degree that everything oozes out at once, there's a small amount of viscosity to the texture but it does not feel tacky or sticky. The toner dispense through a small hole with ease. The small hole will allow a controlled amount of toner to be dispensed and it posses a very pleasant subtle floral scent. When applied onto my skin I experienced an instant boost of hydration that was very quickly absorbed. I don't often use toners, I mainly use mists but I thoroughly enjoyed this product and it will be added into my skincare routine.

DARLING JODIE NOURISHING ESSENCE - $39

This essence is enriched with nourishing ingredients such as Macadamia and Jojoba oil to replenish nutrients and water to the skin. The essence basically looks like unicorn tears - make sure you shake the bottle well otherwise the oil will separate. I've integrated this product into my morning routine (I've already used up 1/4 of the bottle!) because it absorbs so well and does not feel tacky or oily. It sits under my day cream and makeup really well as it hydrates my skin.

DARLING JODIE NOURISHING EYE CREAM - $33

I am very picky when it comes to eye creams. This eye cream had a protective lid, I appreciate these lids, however when I go to remove them, a substantial amount of cream will remain on the lid. If I don't have a scapula I am unable to remove it off the lid. The eye cream is filled to the brim, a beautiful velvety texture with a slight yellow tinge in colour. Once applied, it smoothed out with ease, nourished my under eye area allowing makeup to sit comfortable on top. This eye cream did not roll off my under eye area like a lot of budget eye creams I have used.

Website:
http://www.glamourflage.com.au/

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SCHOLL PARTY FEET - THE ULTIMATE SUPPORT AND COMFORT FOR YOUR FEET

I LOVE heels.

I love the look of heels. I love the aesthetic of heels, I like that it makes me taller, but I hate wearing them. My feet are super picky, which can be costly. If I don't pick wisely I may end up with discomfort and various blisters.

If you have sensitive feet like me, keep reading to see how Scholl can help.

SCHOLL PARTY FEET ARCH SUPPORT

Are your shoes too flat and causing uncomfortable while you are walking?

This soft gel support will help to provide effective cushioning and protection for the arch of your feet. My feet are actually quite flat so I haven't had this "flat" shoes issue, but my mum have a very defined arch to her feet. I gave this to her to trial, she stuck the inserts to her flats with a very small heel and the comfort was instant!

SCHOLL PARTY FEET SORE SPOTS

Are you trying to break into a pair of new shoes and the edges are rubbing against your skin causing blisters?

This is for you!!! I completely know that feeling, there's been so many times where I had to apply band aid on various parts of my feet to prevent blisters. Eventually the band aid would come off and by the time I arrive home I would have kicked my new shoes off and swore not to wear them again.
This sore spot gel cushion will allow you to target specific areas, protecting your feet from pressure and rubbing. It's the shoes, not you!

SCHOLL PARTY FEET BALL OF FOOT CUSHION

I avoid wearing heels 90% of the time because my toes hurt, this particular cushion is best for open toe heels - since I don't really own any I decided to try it on my pair of closed toe heels. It may look like kitten heels to you, but I can't wear them for too long. Once applied, I did experience instant relief. My only comment on this product is that if your shoes fit your feet like a glove, this may not work as well because it will take up a small but significant amount of room to make your shoes feel tight. As a result, I would recommend for people to use this cushion for it's intended purpose - open shoe stilettos.

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Jurlique for Mothers Day - She will LOVE this

Mother's day is just around the corner, in case you need a last minute idea. This is it, you really can't go wrong with Jurlique. My mum never wore any skincare or makeup until I gave her products to use. She started off with drug store products and made her way up to higher end brands. Now she is hooked. So this Mother's Day, I am giving her Jurlique.

Jurlique recently brought out their Rose Moisture Plus Range, it's purpose is to provide intense hydration and provide protection against environmental damage. 

If you have previously tried Jurlique's lotions, you will know how light weight and beautiful they are. There is no exceptions with Jurlique's Rose Moisture Plus Moisturising Lotion ($49). This lotion includes 3 key ingredients, Rose, Rosehip Oil and Tumeric Root Extract - Designed to protect your skin from the environment, soften your skin and keep it hydrated. This lotion can be used morning and night.

Jurlique's Rose Moisture Plus Moisture Daily Balancing Serum ($75) is absolutely beautiful and rich in antioxidant it will help replenish any dehydrated skin while providing fatty acids to help moisturise and protect your skin. Key ingredients include Rosea Gallica Flower Extract, Rose Hip Oil and Rosa Centifolia Extract.

Masks are my ultimate weekend treatment, Jurlique's Rose Moisture Plus Moisturising Cream Mask ($55) is a rich and deeply hydrating treatment mask to restore your skin and improve your skin's moisture levels. This is excellent for dry and dehydrated skin. It can be used as a quick 10 minute treatment. My recommendation before using this product is to clear out your pores first with a gentle exfoliate. The key ingredients are Macadamia Oil, Rosa Gallica Flower Extract and Rose Hip Oil.

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HEARTY HEALTH VEGETARIAN RECIPE USING GRAMPIANS OLIVE OIL

Some of you may know, my partner was a vegetarian (now pescatarian) and I was a carnivorous monster (now a part time veg). I use to hate going out to eat with him because we were never able to share food. It's quite amusing actually, I would order a double beef burger or hot wings and he would order a pumpkin salad, the waiter would always give me the salad and him the burger - we would giggle and switch it around. 

Since living together, I have adjusted to a meat-free home and occasionally eating meat dishes when we eat out once a week. This helped with my digestion. So today I want to share with you a very hearty and healthy dish that we ate for most of the working week using my Grampians Garlic Olive Oil and Finishing Vinegar!

Grampians Olive Co was established in 1943, producing award winning organic Australian Olive Oils of the highest quality. Grampians is Australian made and owned, a family business and you guys know how I always love supporting Aussie brands and small/family businesses!

 I am terrible when it comes to following recipes, I like to see what's in the fridge and using whatever ingredients we have to turn it into a meal. Which is why a lot of flavouring etc are to taste. I find the most important thing to do when I am cooking is to taste my cooking as I go.

Let's have a look at my creation!

INGREDIENTS:

- Grampians Garlic Infused Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Grampians Roasted Capsicum Finishing Vinegar
- 1 cup of kidney beans (half boiled)
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 chopped tomatos
- 2 chopped carrots
- A handful of sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup of soaked lentils
 - 2  cups of washed baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon of Tumeric powder
- A splash of Siracha
- 1 tablespoon of curry powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of water
- Splashes of Soy Sauce

Sides
- Boiled or steamed broccoli
- Sauerkraut
- Boiled jasmine rice

METHOD

1. Splash generous amounts of Grampians Garlic Olive Oil into a slightly heated pan followed by the chopped onion.
2. Once the onion is cooked add your kidney beans, lentils and carrots. You can add boiled kidney beans or half boiled if you would like the beans to simmer in flavour.
3. Add your curry powder, turmeric, siracha (depending on how spicy you want your dish to be), soy sauce, salt/pepper and half a cup of water. Stir then close the lid and simmer on low heat for about 8 mins.
4. Add mushrooms and tomatos, stir and add more water as required.  Add salt to taste. Put the lid back on and simmer again for about 5 mins.
5. Add baby spinach and stir. If you feel the texture is too liquidy, simmer for longer. If you feel that it's too dry - add more water and more spices as required.
6. Serve on top of your boiled rice or on it's own with some flat bread. You can add sauerkraut and broccoli like I did.
7. Top off your curry with some Grampians Roasted Capsicum finishing Vinegar.

I only used two products from my Grampians Picnic Gift Hamper in this particular dish. You can select up to 6 bottles of 100ml olive oils or finishing vinegars for just $40. Below is a photo of all the options from my picnic hamper, the range is fantastic and recipe options are endless with these. This hamper is also a good starting point as a taster to try some of Grampians' premium olive oil range.

My other favourite thing to do is to dip freshly baked sourdough into olive oil. That's when you can really taste the difference of a high quality olive oil - it's like a good coffee.

You can order yourself a hamper by visiting Grampians' website below :) Because it's almost Mother's Day, they are offering free shipping for purchases over $50, take advantage of this! Treat your mum or yourself because you love your body and only want to put the best things in it!

www.grampiansoliveco.com.au/

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