MYER Melbourne CBD

Myer Melbourne has finally unveiled it’s flagship store in Bourke Street to celebrate its 100th birthday. After four years and A$300 million – Myer Melbourne is probably one of the best department stores I have ever seen. Miss E, Miss V and I went to check it out and took some photos of this beautiful store. Of course I was told not to – but look how beautiful the store fitting is… I LIKE!!!

Miss V at the Chanel counter - told her to try the Chanel No 5 Premiere

Taken from the ground floor - not sure how many floors but i think 5. You have got to visit it to appreciate the shop - reminds me of the La Fayette store in Paris.

Miss V checking the perfume section. She likes the Stella McCartney.

The best part - the luxury handbag section. Miss V was eyeing the Moschino bag

... and the luxury shoe section. Too bad no Christian Luobotin

After Myer, we then went on to Target and then to Priceline – where we shoped ’til we drop.

Miss E having a rest - after Priceline. I was knocked out though - i had my laptop bag, Friday bag and the shopping bag from Priceline

Miss V at the Priceline counter. She was buying stuff for her children and family - such a great Mum she is.

Loving right now: SKINN face wash

I bought this skin care line called SKINN by James Dimitri on TVSN 6 weeks ago and I have been using these duo cleansers (AM and PM specific) since and I must say I’m loving it. This company is based in LA in the US and sells through shop TVs.

The morning cleanser is called Sulfate Free Gentle Cleanser. Described as: ” water-activated, detergent-free cleanser leaves your skin feeling squeaky clean, but never stripped. Because this cleanser is sulfate free, it can thoroughly clean without damaging the skin’s natural moisturizing factors. It removes skin plaque which ordinary cleansers can’t. Your skin care products will penetrate better and makeup will go on smoother. Contains mild alpha-hydroxy-acids (AHA’s) buffered with green tea extract to gently resurface and bring out new layers of skin.”

Since I have been using this each morning, my face tends to look brighter and clearer and makes applying make up so smooth. The scent is so refreshing too it makes me feel rejuvenated each time. You can also use this as mask – so what I do is put it on and leave it whilst I brush my teeth so it stays on for 2 to 3 minutes. Wash it off and I then have a clean and clear morning skin.

The evening cleanser is called Olive & Enzyme Rich Balm Cleanser: “rich in Polyphenols and skin resurfacing enzymes, this water-free, super-rich, night-time cleansing balm is the ultimate skin luxury. First, it dissolves dirt, makeup, daily grime, pollution and dead skin cells. It’s so gentle it even removes eye makeup as it softens and smoothes the skin with rich olive butter. Orange oil works to purify, while a new high-tech bio-engineered enzyme resurfaces for the cleanest skin ever! Apply as a mask for the ultimate super smoothing, resurfacing, deep pore cleansing treatment.”

Another amazing cleanser and has this sweet creamy smell that I love putting it on and leaving it for 2 to 3 minutes before taking it off. It’s like the Ponds cold cream, only better in terms of smell and quality.

I was skeptical at the onset but then James was so great in selling on TV I could not resist buying. I have ordered a few of his products but these are the 2 itens I’m using now. The duo cleansers costs around A$40 bucks.

The Friday Bag

Friday is always a girl’s night out. We are now down from 4 to 2 as Miss A is now based in Sydney and Miss G now works in a suburb close to her home and inevitably decides to not hang out Friday’s with us. To other people, it sounds like we always do these very interesting activities together. Which we do – based on our books. Except all we do is either shop, eat, watch a movie, people-watch whilst eating. And also, it’s not like we go to these expensive or exotic restaurants at all – we tend to go where the best meal is in town (translate to cheap but tasty!).

Tonight my intention was to go to the Feng Shui shop in Russell St. and check the water feature as I wanted to change the old one. I was not too excited with the price (I know I can be very stingy) as I think they’re way overpriced. I think I could get a more decent one at a very reasonable price in Bunnings or Myer’s. Anyway, I decided to give that a miss.

So off we went and walked towards Lonsdale Street. I didn’t realise that this area was full of Greek cafes and restaurants. We passed by this cake/biscuit shop and was mesmerised with the display of all these sweets. They look amazing on display. I was thinking – SUGAR – NO! But then I said to Ms E “yeah, let’s just have a look”. Yeah. Right. Within 2 minutes I was buying an almond crusted cake and a walnut baklava. Miss E was taking her time as usual and I was not sure what she ended up buying. I think she had something chocolate-coated cake. Temptation at it’s best. Really I could not resist. I’m weak I know. Suddenly we were so excited to have dinner so we can have our cakes for dessert.

But then 2 stores ahead we passed by a leather goods shop called, Leather CARGO company. Miss E insisted to go inside and “just have a look”. She loves the smell of leather. This is what happened: we went around and checked the bags and then Miss E stopped near the entrance and was checking this big bag – very simple cut but has the right “Friday” bag size. A Friday bag is a bag that is big enough to carry all your essentials without having an extra “shoe” bag.

This Friday bag was made in different colours: bright yellow, green, orange, purple, brown & blue. I was drawn to the orange one as it reminded me of my fave brand Hermes. Tried it on and I thought – this could do as Friday bag and of course Miss E was already giving me the plus points why it’s a great bag. And was totally agreeing with her.

The SA in trying to sell it even had to say that the style was a copy of Coach. I wish he didn’t have to say that really. It was beautiful as it was and is made of real leather – without having to refer to it as a copy. The good news was – they were 50% off. So from $299 down to $150.

The Orange Friday Bag

I really don’t need another handbag but I bargained and I ended up paying $135. On top of that, the guy was so nice to us he gave me free gifts – a coin purse each, mine in orange and Miss E in red. Miss E said that she will definitely go back and buy. She was very disciplined in her spending.

The Galliera (my current Friday bag) next to the new purchase Orange bag

At home I showed it to PG and he approved of it – he said the colour is very striking. He likes it when I buy things and they’re not black!

The new Friday bag next to my River's hot pink flats (these are very comfy shoes by the way)

Definitely worth a visit – so when you get the chance visit the Leather Cargo Company in Lonsdale Street. I may visit the shop again – to check some of the colourful briefcases…

 

 

Best & Worst Food of the Week 2

Last Friday I took my girlfriend Miss E to Conservatory in Crown. I’ve been to the lunch buffet but I haven’t really tried their dinner buffet. So to celebrate my promotion I thought we should go to Conservatory.

I like the ambiance in this restaurant: grand entrance (as you go through the staircase), high ceiling, great view of the river (if you’re lucky to get a seat near the window), and generally good selection of dishes, decent cutlery and tableware. Friday dinner I think is a bit overpriced. However, I could not complain much as the seafood selection is really excellent. If only for that – I’d rate the restaurant 7/10. Also, service was excellent as the waiters were very attentive filling our water glasses, folding the napkins, clearing the table.

This was the start of my pigging-out week. I took photos of what I had and seriously – I so deserve the bloating stomach this week. Here, take a look of what I had for just less than 2 hours:

First Course

2nd course

3rd course

4th course

This was followed the next day attending a friend’s birthday – and more food. I had several visits to the buffet table:

And then during the week I had lunch dates with friends and this normally translate to eating out. I find that when I do a lot of socialising I tend to eat the not so-healthy food especially when I go out with people who just love to eat anything. Great company though but I think next time I have to be more disciplined.

Anyway, there is always a next time to start eating healthy again.

 

Camberwell Sunday Market – the best market for vintage finds

My life in contrasts – I love luxury high-end labels at the same time I take pleasure in cheap finds and bargains. Well, bargain is relative actually as one man’s trash is another person’s treasure. My friend Miss E stayed with us last night after attending a friend’s birthday party – so I decided perhaps taking her to the local Sunday market.

I can’t remember the last time I went to the Camberwell Sunday market - it must have been last year. PG and I used to visit the market frequently and we have bought several stuff – the most notable would be stuffed toy’s for the dogs – purchased from 50 cents to a couple of dollars.

Today, I bought a few items and I’m so happy with these bargains:

1) Jade necklace – A$20. I have bought semi-precious stones jewelry from this Chinese guy in the past and I always go back to his stall. He’s got several items of beads and other materials if you are into making your own jewelry. Amazing collection – little jade figurines of feng shui animals, rings, pendants – the lot.

2) Handbag organiser – A$5. First time I have seen this in the market – a handbag organiser. It’s a must have especially for people like myself where I like changing handbags everyday. So having this I’ll just put in the essentials and voila – i just had to grab it and transfer it to another handbag. It also has lots of mini-compartments. I LIKE!!!

3) Aviator sunglasses – A$10. Now, this is really cheap – but I bet I’ll use it for 4 weeks and that will be it. But I like the look of it (gold frame with brown tint) and I don’t have an aviator yet so this will be a good way to test how that will look on me before I decide to purchase a Ray-Ban aviator.

4) Incense sticks – A$2 each. I burn incense almost everyday so I tend to have a bunch of supply at home. I bought the Sandalwood (best aroma to use when doing some ‘air’ purification), lavender, and lemongrass. The lemongrass I haven’t tried in the past so it’ll be interesting how that will smell.

5) Glycerin soaps – A$5. I know I said before that I won’t be buying anymore soaps. I really can’t help it – I see them and I just have this urge to buy them. I hoard soap and toiletries at home. I admit I have a supply that could lasts for 5 years!

6) Brooch & ring – A$5. The royal blue brooch was $2 and the dark blue in gold-tone frame ring was $3 – OMG such a bargain. This Chinese girl selling them seems to love Chanel brand and she makes these brooches and jewelry patterned after some Chanel merchandise. So so cute.

7) White pair of shoes – A$1. I don’t normally buy second-hand shoes but this was a dollar and fits me. Besides the student selling it had these amazing collection of shoes and clothes (she is extra extra small i think) and she just wants to sell off her stuff before going back home to HK.

So this was my Sunday morning shopping. At least less cost than going to Chadstone for a change.

 

Christian Louboutin SHOES!!!

I’m a shoe-whore. I  love shoes. I’m in love with all my shoes!!!

However up to now I still  haven’t purchased a Loubotin. They  have just opened a shop in Sydney and I’m so dying to go and visit that shop. I reckon I’ll get out of that shop with a few purchase. For now, I’m surfing the pages of net-a-porter and just admiring the Loubotins – OMG indeed! They are so so so so beautiful – work of art.

I have tried some in David Jones – and they are very comfy shoes. I think only DJs carry it here in Melbourne – not sure so don’t quote me on that.

I must say I like the 100mm (4 inches) – just enough height for me to go through during the day at work. Although I can tolerate the 120mm – but I know that’s going to be a stretch – really will hurt after a few hours. So here are my top 3:

1 & 2) Decollete 100 jazz pumps: Opt for a high-shine finish in CL’s black (and caramel) jazz leather Decollete pumps. Wear the black classic style with everything from mini dresses to tailoring.

The caramel pumps are a leg-lengthening shoe choice. Slip them on with a metallic dress for a luxe neutral accent.

3) Sexy Strass 100 Swarovski crystal peep-toe pumps: A stunning bridal option, CL’s megawatt Swarovski crystal-encrusted leather peep-toe pumps will illuminate any occasion. Partner them with a simple cocktail dress for all-out glamour.

Louis Vuitton Alma Vernis – What Colour Should I Get?

Now that I got the new role – a promotion actually – as I’m still within the same company – and so I think I deserve a new Louis. I am so keen of getting an Alma in Vernis – but PG thinks it looks like a PVC. I had to explain to him that it is leather except it’s coated creating that shiny look. You have to visit the LV site and go through each one of the colours to see and appreciate this handbag. I see it as a perfect Fall bag. PG also kept reminding me that there are other luxury brands, to which I reply “Sure darling, I’ll get to that too!” I have my eye on a Fendi & a Prada  – for a Friday bag.

This is the description from the LV site: “The iconic Louis Vuitton Alma shape, sleek Monogram Vernis leather and smooth rounded handles make this city bag a must-have accessory. The curved shape allows for a large interior capacity too.” It is a roomy bag – which means I don’t need to have a shoe bag!

I do love a big handbag – just because I like to put MY whole life in it in a day. I mean, I tend to have a shoe bag (translate to = another bag to keep my shoes, book, umbrella, water bottle, etc.) and my handbag is where I keep the essentials (wallet/s, vanity kit, phone, etc.)

And did I say it has golden brass metallic pieces? Who doesn’t want those gold pieces – a key bell and padlock – in a handbag???

Plus the Alma is structured and has very clean outline – just perfect for sharp suits and clean line dresses I will be wearing for fall. This bag will add pizzaz to the dark sombre fall and winter wardrobe.

The decision is now up to determining which colour?

1) Rouge Fauviste – a hue  between Pomme d’Amour and Amarante – a cranberry-ish hue.

 

 

 

 

 

 

2) Amarante – dark cherry (my friend Ivy has this and I LIKE)

3) Bleu Infini – smokey blue

I have called LV shop in Collins today and they do have the Rouge Fauviste MM in stock. And it was nice to hear the SA say – “Glad to hear from you Mrs McCauley!” Funny because it is PG’s name in their books – not mine.

 

Worst & Best Food of the Week

In the past, I would normally eat ice cream as a treat after a hard day but last Friday after long hours of socialising I went home really hungry. I could not be bothered looking at the cupboard and I was craving something sweet and hence it was a mistake opening the freezer.

I have been REALLY really very good with my eating and then last Friday I had the worst food ever. I mean, it was tasty and sweet but right after I have devoured this sticky gooey creamy stuff – I felt sick. Since I have been on the ‘right road’ to health I had to slip having this – the Cadbury Creme egg ice cream.

I don’t know what it was doing in the freezer but when I asked PG he said he bought it one time and thought to have a taste of it sometime during the summer. Yeah. Right.

Quite frankly, the box does speak to you when you open the freezer – there it was in bright red amidst all the boring healthy frozen meals of brown rice, soups, LiteNEasy, rye bread. Next time I see it I will loudly pray “and lead me not into temptation!” I refuse to check the calorie content of a cupful (ok make that 1.5 cups) of this as I just know it will be enough to feed me for the whole day. My allergy just came through a few seconds after I had it and I was sick that night until the following morning. I solemnly agree – I deserve it.

So come Sunday I decided to do something to undo the deed. PG has been maintaining a veggie and herb garden and we have plenty. I picked up some spinach, carrot, parsley and mint and juiced it. To add a bit of sweetness, I put in an apple. It tasted okay but I was imagining the live nutrients getting into my system and kicking out the sugar and toxic stuff from my bloodstream. I drank lots of water that day and was glad of the hourly visit to the toilet. Nature is indeed the best remedy.

I love Parsley actually – whenever I pass by the herb garden I grab a few leaves and eat it raw. Sometimes I brew it as tea. I add it to salads and stews. I’m sure there are plenty of benefits but for now I am just glad I have this in abundance.

Wish List 2011: Jaguar XF

Now that I have my other wishes fulfilled – I’m now onto the next one…

I don’t drive to work – I take the train everyday and I’m very happy to be on it. You see – I get to read my book and more importantly NAP. However, I have been having this vision of myself driving a luxury car (a different brand I should I say) and parking it in the company parking lot at the basement of the building. Other times, I see myself being dropped off and picked up by my driver/chauffer (it’s always good to dream).

But for now, I like to drive my own car. I can take the Benz E-350, but I really want a new/different car now. I told PG that Bill (that’s the name of the benz) should be his and so I can get a new one.

To keep my dream complete I had to have a vision of the brand; and of course it should only be the best. And so I thought – a Jaguar. Jag’s iconic cat emblem gets me. I love it. Plainly because I love the CAT family. I mean, I ADORE the cat family. I just think they are the most beautiful creatures that God ever created. I do think they are very confident animals, know what they want, can be very elusive, can totally ignore you or intimidate you just by their mere presence, graceful and yet can be very forceful when they have to, intransigent, obstinate and obviously commanding… Such qualities I so adore in these creatures.

I suppose scanning the Australian Financial Review daily and glancing at the Jag print ad has this effect. I’m such an advertising junkie! I’ve been reading the print ads and admiring the  photo of the Jag XJ. However, doing much research on it I think that for practicality I’d go for the XF instead. Besides, XJ is massive and appeals more to the blokes – and I prefer a smaller Jag although I would not necessarily go for a sporty version. I will certainly schedule a test drive next month – or once I get a final confirmation from this new gig.

I’m posting here a few pics of my soon-to-be new baby – “here kitty, kitty”!

   

Healthy Moi

Okay. So now I decided to write about my journey to health and well-being as my family, friends and work colleagues now wonder what I have done to get to this. The most absurd comments by far? that  I have done a few cosmetic procedures, that I am doing some kind of a boot camp everyday, that I’m taking a secret potion – a very expensive one, that I’m not eating at all, or I’m bulimic. Although I must say I have thought of those at some point. But it is really ridiculous.

Quite frankly, even I am unsure which helped me on my way to better health. All I know is it was a holistic approach – in that I looked at it not just from a physical and physiological point of view but I went through a ‘healing’ process in my emotional and psychological state. This process has taken me about 6 months – I mean physically the results were apparent after 3 months but I find that I kept losing more weight every week. I must share though that my pre-paving in terms of thought/belief has been going on in the last 3 years and I believe that this was key. (To those of you who believe in the mind/body connection you will appreciate this. I am more than happy to share to you books/CDs/DVDs I have read and followed through if you want – just email me.)

But for the sake of keeping things simple I will share with you what I did in the first 3 months and that is I went through a DETOX program, which I devised according to my needs with help from a Naturopath who prescribed me treatment for my allergies.

• Colonics – I had 6 treatments done – so once every forthnight
• Gave up SUGAR – no lollies/candies, cakes and biscuits (although occasionally I will have a piece but limit it to 2 a week)
• Gave up BREAD – all kinds (but same as sugar I have a piece or 2 in a week)
• Gave up COFFEE – I now drink organic coffee

And that is all the main things that I introduced into my regime.

I NEVER exercise – and PG can attests to this. The only exercise I do is walk the dogs twice a week (during weekends) for an hour and 15 minutes each day.

P.S. There are other things that I do on a daily basis which has been part of my regime for a while now and I just kept doing that together with the above detox. I think those helped to but will share that in a different blog entry.

For now – love & peace to all!