Thoughts from your average girl next door

Your new homepage has arrived!

2009-09-23T16:06:00.004+10:00

Pelactiv's new website is now LIVE!

Apart from it being AMAZINGLY FABTABULOUS, ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL & DOWNRIGHT SMASHING. It really does bring out the essence of the brand and targets both the professional and consumer world of beauty.

But, don't take my word for it. Check it out for yourself. Click any of the links below:

www.pelactiv.com.au

www.pelactiv.com.au

Over and out lovers,

Girl Next Door xoxo

What I am obsessing over right now.....!

2009-07-16T09:24:00.003+10:00

Morning Winter Snow Bunnies,

Just a quick post this morning before I run and jump into the work playground that is my office right now (surrounded by pink and blue Pelactiv bags for Beauty Expo). Seriously. I can't move my chair without one gliding underneath it!

How divine is the below ad?

OK, so I am a LITTLE biast but the girl's at Women's Health agree with me too. If you want to check it out in all its glory, then grab a copy of the latest Women's Health and call 1800 655 745 for your nearest stockist.

OK plug over.

Stay warm,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Updates from the World of Beauty

2009-06-18T17:06:00.008+10:00

Hi there Thought Fans,

Soooooo, I do this Weekly-News-Letter-type-thingy for work and I was thinking that you would probably benefit from it as well. Basically, I send out an email every Friday to the Pelactiv staffers and fill them in on what's going on in the Land Of Beauty - media wise. What's hot, what's not, what's going on sale, who's looking good, who's looking crap - you know all the important stuff.

This one is from last week. So may be a little outdated. But I will post the one I wrote today on Monday (just so you have to come back and visit moi again. Mhaaaa. Evil I know.). But, I do LOVE it when you visit.

Anyways have a looksie at what happened in Beautyland last week.

Sydney Hair Expo graced the shores of Darling Harbour over the long weekend. Hair Experts came from far and wide to see what this year’s installment of the popular expo had in store for them.

The Schwarzkopf Professional Hair Expo Hairdressing Award winners were announced across 13 categories on Monday, June 8. The longest running awards in the Australian Hair Industry, the Hair Expo awards are a pretty big deal for hairdresssers in Oz. And the winners are (insert drum roll here)…………………..

Australian Hairdresser of the Year: Caterina DiBiase, Heading Out Hair & Beauty, Melbourne
New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year: Adrian Barclay, Venom, Invercargill, NZ
Colour Technician of the Year: Jacen Ward, TONI&GUY, Paddington, NSW
Salon Team of the Year: Gary Latham, Wild Life Hair, Milsons Point, NSW
New Creative Force: Jason Fassbender, Parlour Hair, Malvern, SA
Session Hair Stylist of the Year: Benn Jae, Look Production & Management, Darlinghurst, NSW
Apprentice of the Year: Alexandra Kontos, Nischler, Hobart, TAS
Best New Salon Design: Cranium Hair, Manly, NSW
Best Photographic Collection: Caterina DiBiase, Heading Out Hair & Beauty, Fitzroy, VIC
Entrepreneur of the Year: Dennis Langford, TONI&GUY, Paddington, NSW
Excellence in Salon Marketing: TONI&GUY, Paddington, NSW
Excellence in Hairdressing Education, Registered Organisation: BIBA Academy, Fitzroy, VIC
Excellence in Hairdressing Education, Individual: Sharon Blain, The Art of Hair, Pennant Hills, NSW
Hall of Fame Inductee: Anthony and Susa Wynne-Hoelscher

Round of applause for those winners.

And, while we’re on hair, The-Wacky-Hair-Gizmo-That-We-Like-The-Concept-Of-But-Really-Don’t-Need-Award goes to…………. (can we get that drum roll again please?)

…………………………..Dario Controneo for launching MyCurl

Leading hair stylist Dario Controneo has launched the MyCurl, a curling utensil that works with hair straighteners to provide a range of wavy hairstyles. The MyCurl is Australian-made and has already been used on celebrities, i.e. Natalie Bassingthwaighte. “It’s a styler for the hair iron,” says Controneo. “It takes out the technique of creating wavy hair. There are four different characters each represent a different look you can achieve with the MyCurl and we will continue to launch a new character and style each month. “We started with sketches of a figure eight as that is the shape we needed to create the right curl. We then experimented with the bend of the ‘S’ – a tighter bend means a tighter curl. The strap though is a miracle worker, it was the hardest thing to do. Once we got the shape of the ‘S’, developing the strap took another year.” Really? A WHOLE YEAR to develop the strap….hhhmmmm. Cool concept but doesn’t the GHD already do good enough curls? PLUS! How random does it look?!

The Lob, it seems is the new ‘It’ Haircut as seen on Gwynie Paltrow (below).

Katie Holmes has also had a hair makeover (below).

Pretty darn smokin’ if you ask me. She’s looking much more like the Katie Holmes we all feel in love with - when she spent her nights climbing in and out of Dawson’s window wayyyy back in the day (Pre-I'm-married-to-a-scientology-psycho). Am still wondering why the costume department didn't make it compolsory that she WEAR A BRA. In every episode.

I just had to include this pic below….talk about YUM! But, actually this strapping young man, Tyson Ritter (he even has a hot name!) is the lead singer of ‘All American Rejects’, they sing that song, ‘When you see my face, Hope it gives you hell, hope it gives you hell’, yup, now you’re going to have that one in your head all day. Anyway, Ty has just been signed on to Hugo BOSS to promote their new men’s fragrance, BOSS in Motion White, set to hit our stores on the 26th of July 2009. The sexy scent features blood orange combined with cinnamon bark, saffron and black pepper as well as vetiver, which makes the scent smell very very hot. MMmmmmmm. Definitely one to put on the list for future boyf gifts. But, seriously, I think we all just need to stop what we’re doing and take in this ad that is very, VERY close to perfection.

Interesting piece of info # 48…I found this survey on the SMH site and below are the results after 133 people had voted:

Question: Are you spending less on beauty products during these hard economic times?
91 answered YES

AND

42 answered NO

Interesting….. especially for those of us who work in Skin Care. i.e me.

On that note I will leave you with the sounds of the rain and the 10 degree evening I am about to shimmy out into.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Sorry about the no-posting of late. My bad! But I have NEWS!

2009-05-05T14:48:00.004+10:00

So you know how I was going to take you into the lives (and mine as well) of my friends dating lives? Well it actually turns out that my friends (and myself) don't really want to kiss and tell. And I'm not sure if you guys warmed to my whole Sex & The City/The Hills-style blog. Am I right? I usually am.

It just so happens that I've taken a different direction into the media world and found myself smack-bang right in the middle of a very delightful skincare office.

The brand? Pelactiv.

The gig? PR & Marketing Manager.

The conclusion? Best. Job. Ever. After my gig at Girlfriend of course!

Any hoots, if you want to check out a more in-depth/celeb-style version of my movements click here.

I know you're DYING to know about the amazing products I am flogging so just press here. The site is at this very minute under construction but if you check back in the next few days you can see for yourself why I am so besotted with my new job! In the meantime, you can lust over the few products that are displayed on the 'Under Construction' page.

I'm thinking this blog is best suited to updating you on all things Pelactiv and beauty PR related from now on. It's a pretty fast-paced, fun and exciting industry to be involved in, but let me know. I need updates on your lives too! Leave me a comment bloggies.

Yours in mountains of cream cleansers,

Girl Next Door x

P.S Contrary to popular belief the girl in the pic is NOT moi.

In case you hadn't noticed....

2009-01-29T14:20:00.004+11:00

...it's the New Year! Welcome to 2009 lovelies!

I hope the year has already brought some magic into your lives whether it be in your work life, home life - alright I'll just cut to the chase and tell you what I'm really interested in hearing about -your love life! Pashes, one night stands, seeing someone on and off, waiting for Him to text you, sending him a flirty text. I want to know ALL about it. And, as promised I have done somewhat of a re-vamp with my little blog that you have all come to know and love. But guess what? Now you're going to love it even more.

This year Thoughts will be doing her best to bring you more into the heads of those creatures we just can't live without - men! By bringing you into the real (very dramatic - real dramatic though not Home & Away/The Hills dramatic) lives of her and her close friends.

So without further ado........welcome to my first 2009 post of re-vamped Thoughts from your average girl next door!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

P.S If you have a boy dilemma or something you think needs explaining or you just want to tell me how great/not so great my blog is email Girl Next Door at thoughts@live.com.au

Sending out some pre-Christmas cheer as I wave buh-bye to Oz for a few weeks

2008-12-11T10:40:00.006+11:00

I have to apologise for my lack of posts lately. But I have had a legitimate reason of why I haven’t been your blogging bestie for the past few weeks. I have been preparing myself to leave the country! Yep that trip I have been geeing up to you for the past ooh, 10 months now is finally just around the river bend. I leave on Monday morning to start one of the most amazing (and hectic) holidays of my life (so far).

The funny thing is I have always wondered why my mum (and anyone else for that matter) has gotten so stressed out before they leave to go overseas. The whole ‘I can’t wait to get on that plane’ thought is very true. Especially when you’re jetting off half way around the world by yourself. I have travelled by myself before on a plane and driven to many destinations on my lonesome but to have actually stepped foot in another country on my own, never happened. Ever.

You may be gasping at your screens right now and thinking, ‘How is it that at the ripe old age of 23 has she not done the whole ‘travelling thing’ on her own.’ To be completely honest with you, I have never felt the urge to do so. When all my friends were packing up their rooms and farewelling their parents for a year on the Canadian slopes or sipping a cappuccino and scoffing down a gelato in Rome I was getting up at the crack of dawn to travel to what made me very happy and content at that point in my life. My job. And as many of my regular readers would know that was of course my role at Girlfriend Magazine. It was by far the most fun and exciting job I have ever had and I feel so blessed that I had the chance to experience such a great job at such a young age. So many of the friendships I made at GF (I know) will be apart of my life forever. Phoebe, the then fashion assistant is travelling to New York with me and when we get back we’re moving out together! Talk about mean’t-to-be?! Not to mention all the people who I had the privilege of meeting along the way during my time at Girlfriend. You know who you are.

Anyway the point I’m trying to make is that when it comes to going overseas or even if you’re travelling locally any kind of break away from home is always good. It leaves room for the mind and spirit to awaken themselves. More so than if you’re just doing the same day-to-day-existing-as-a-person-in-your-little-sheltered-(and in my case Northern Beaches sheltered)-world. I know I’m going to get a shock when I step my Steve Madden sandals onto American soil - my friends have already warned me about getting pulled aside randomly when entering a U.S airport from another country and the security factor. But I am intrigued and very excited. It’s definately time for me to fly the nest and grow and flourish a little more.

On that note I want to wish all of you a safe and happy festive season. I really hope you all take the time you need to relax and catch up with the people that you love. I will try and check in with you over the break and upload some pictures for you to see what I’m up to. Thanks for reading this year. I have a lot planned for you in 2009. And you didn’t hear it from me but I am getting together some ideas for a bit of a re-vamp for Thoughts. I’ll be focusing more on relationships and sex and most importantly men and how they think compared to how we as women think. Ring any bells? I’m going to take Carrie Bradshaw’s lead and give you the info you need on boys/men and relationships – coz let’s face it, who doesn’t want to read about sex and hot men? Any topics you’d like to see me cover in particular, please email me at thoughts@live.com.au

Peace, love & jingle bells,

Girl Next Door xoxo

You know how I am friends with one of the coolest beauty ed's in Sydney?

2008-11-28T09:50:00.005+11:00

Well, she has this site beautyeditor.com.au, you may heard of it? A very popular and highly commended site within the mag/beauty industry/beauty addicts around the world.

Guess what?! I just so happen to be her Reader of the Week, this week!

Excited much? Me too!

Check it out by clicking here.

Have a fab-tabulous weekend bloggettes!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Can someone please pass me a bucket?

2008-11-25T12:22:00.002+11:00

While I barf!

It seems that Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag (Montag-Pratt now?) have tied the knot. Well actually they have ‘eloped’. In Mexico.

I have something that will make you barf/laugh even more, Pratt’s wedding vows, are you ready?

"Heidi, from the moment you came into my life, I knew my life would never be the same without you. You are the light in my life like the sun to the Earth! Your loving warmth makes me want to be a better person. Being with you, I feel complete. I'm honored to even be able to call you my wife. You are the most amazing, loving and caring woman on this planet. I will love you forever and always."

What. A. Tool.

I have only seen up to the end of Season 2 of The Hills and from what I’ve seen so far Spencer is the biggest tosser ever. After playing Heidi for any other chick that had a pair of legs (hookers not excluded), turning Heidi against her best friend Lauren ‘L.C’ Conrad and generally playing the part of a total dick, this is what Heidi had to say about their ‘union’ to Us Magazine, 'I'm ready to marry Spencer. He's my soul mate.'

See, told you, total barf material.

Can I have that bucket now?

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

*TGIF!

2008-11-14T12:15:00.008+11:00

Bloggettes! It's my fave time of the week/year/season!

We're on the cusp of spring/summer and with Chrissy, NYE and festival season only posts away it's time to start discussing what we're all doing for the holiday season!

I want to know what you're doing, where you're going (who's going with you). What you'll be doing/seeing/watching/flinging/partying up a storm with?

We all know where I'm headed, right? Well, for those of you who don't, I'll give you a quick run through. Only two of the hottest cities in the world right now (after Sydney of course), Miami & New York City. Yep, in a mere 4 weeks and 2.5 days I will be one plane ride away from the holiday of a lifetime. I've only been planning this holiday since, ooh, March this year?

And, after many, many interruptions in my saving process (job swaps/car accidents/tax bills/living out of home/paying back money I owe people/nights out) I have finally started to really knuckle down and save my mula. Last night reaching the ultimate number of $2,000! That is the most money I have ever saved in my entire life (just quietly) and there will be more to come!

OK, first rant over.

Second rant is all about the full moon we had last night.

I am one that is very intrigued by the moon and the energy that it gives out. I've heard so many rumours/stories of strange things happening when there's a full moon and have always wanted to know if there is in fact any truth to these stories, so I decided to Google it, the full moon that is. This is what I found out:

'Full Moons are traditionally associated with temporal insomnia, insanity (hence the terms lunacy and lunatic) and various "magical phenomena" such as lycanthropy. Psychologists, however, have found that there is no strong evidence for effects on human behavior around the time of a full moon. They find that studies are generally not consistent, with some showing a positive effect and others showing a negative effect. In one instance, the December 23, 2000 issue of the British Medical Journal published two studies on dog bite admission to hospitals in England and Australia. The study of the Bradford Royal Infirmary found that dog bites were twice as common during a full moon, whereas the study conducted by the public hospitals in Australia found that they were less likely.
Many neopagans hold a monthly ritual called an Esbat at each full moon, while some people practicing traditional Chinese religions prepare their ritual offerings to their ancestors and deities on every full and new moon.'

Source: Wikipedia

Thanks Wikipedia.

I, on the other hand aren't one to believe in something just because it hasn't got scientific evidence to back it up. And really, dog bites? Are they kidding? Why don't they conduct a study on 20-something year old's and the effect that alcohol has on them, say on a night with a full moon and on a night without a full moon? Now that's a study I'd be willing to partake in!

It seems there's not much on the web that is legit (maybe they ran out of dogs to conduct tests on). So, I'm just going to come to my own conclusion on this one and say that I believe that the moon possesses very strong powers and gives out more energy than we could ever have possibly imagined. I mean, come on, how can something that huge, that gives out that much natural light not have an effect on the world around it (or the world that it spins around for that matter).

Intrigued much? Yep, me too.

I'll leave you with that to think through til Monday.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

P.S Maybe the full moon has affected me more than I thought?

*Thank God It's Friday!

Can I get a round of applause for Aveda?

2008-11-10T10:34:00.002+11:00

Beauty Tip # 87623

Yep, I’m talking bout that organic skin care, hair care, make up and lifestyle range, their tagline? ‘The Art and Science of Pure Flower and Plant Essences™’, doesn’t that in itself make you want to lather the stuff all over your body?

Don’t let the fancy-pants packaging trick you into thinking these guys are new to Beautyland, they’ve been around the traps longer than you and me: 1978 to be exact.

I have been using Aveda for about 6 months now. My mum put me onto the range of skin care and I have never looked back. The products have a way of making your skin look and feel amazing. Last week I purchased ‘Sun Source’ their moisturizing self tanner. I applied it on Friday night and then yesterday (Sunday) my friend commented how good my spray tan looked.......
Friend: ‘So, your spray tan looks hot.’
Me: ‘No spray tan, this is 100% DIY faux tanning at its best, I’m talking organic, all natural, no chemicals involved at all, so you can use it on your face and not break out!’
Friend: OMG, you have to tell me where I can get some, you look like you’ve just spent a week in Carbo’.
Me: ‘Run, don’t walk down to DJ’s or selected salons who stock Aveda products (http://www.aveda.com/) RRP: $39.95.
Friend: ‘Sigh, what would I do without your wealth of faux tan knowledge?’
Me: ‘Not too much’.

And that’s how it’s done.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

The best $10 I've spent in a while

2008-10-20T15:46:00.004+11:00

For those of you who don't know me and can't see the pic of me on the right hand side of this page, well, it's time I let you in on a little secret: I'm blonde.

The thing with being blonde is it's a major up-keep with the whole growing-back-of-the-hair situation. I go to the hairdressers every 6-7 weeks, spend 3 hours and about $150 to get me through to the next 6-7 weeks and then do it all over again! It's upsetting for me sometimes as that $150 is alot of money to me. And, to be going every second month (I believe) is just ludicrous. This passing Friday night I discovered a way to keep my hair lasting those extra couple of weeks in-between salon visits. And you know what? It ain't rocket science.

Step one: Mosey on down to your local Woolies/Chemist/Priceline/Coles and get yourself acquainted with the home-hair-colour aisle. Don't be scared - esp if you're blonde, coz let's face it, bleach is bleach and it's going to do the same thing that a salon colour will do to your hair any day. Plus you can have no-roots for less than $14.95!

Step two: Cast your eyes over to the Clairol range of hair colours. Ahuh that's right, now pick your preferred colour, Note: it doesn't matter if the shade you pick is a little off yours, it will still look hot.

Step three: Make sure you have a shampoo and conditioner that will hold your colour in place. i.e if you're blonde have a blonding shampoo and conditioner handy and same if you are a dark colour.

Step four: Follow the instructions and jump in the shower applying previous said shampoo and conditioner. Style your hair as usual and voila! Salon sexy colour that will have you strutting round like you just stepped out of Ken Paves’ hair salon! Minus the hefty receipt!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Carrie Bradshaw style - coming to a Myer store near you

2008-10-13T10:02:00.008+11:00

Hands up who has seen the Sex & the City (SATC) movie yet? Hands up who has seen the SATC movie more than once? More than twice? Three times or more?
I am in the latter, and that was only at the cinemas!

I will admit, I have only just begun to get into the highly addictive series this year. When I first found out that the series would be debuting on the big screen I had to find out for myself exactly what all the hype was about. 6 seasons, 2 blocks of organic chocolate and countless nights of forcing myself away from the TV, I was sick with Sex-Fever. I couldn’t believe it had taken me this long to realise I had been missing out on one of life’s not-so-guilty pleasures!

The girls laughing up a storm in their big screen debut!

By the time the movie came out I was busting to know what happened to every character. Did Carrie and Big get married? Did Charlotte and Harry get the child they had been longing for? Did Miranda and Steve live happily ever after? Did Samantha finally find 'The One' in hunky Smith Jarrod?

After seeing the movie with a good friend, I was hooked! It was everything I’d hoped for and more. So incredibly satisfying. The fashion, the cast, the places, the set, the um, sex!

Speaking of which (fashion that is, not sex), Patricia Field the series/movie costume designer is bringing out her own range (based on the SATC movie) to Myer stores (!), Destination Style New York – so very appropriate! So, if it’s the hot little dress that Carrie wears in the opening scene of the movie, (you know the one with the huge, amazing flower on the neckline - my personal fave) or the ‘bright’ canary coloured suit that Samantha wears to the auction, that you fancy. You will be able to purchase one like it at a Myer store very soon (please take a breath, I was hyperventilating for 10 minutes when I found out too!).
Patricia Field - the world's hottest costume designer of the moment

Run, don’t walk to your nearest Myer store on October 18th, the date the collection arrives in store. You’re lucky, I was almost not going to give you the date (more for me! He he). The movie comes out on DVD on October 16th (Thursday this week!).

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Mini is the new black in Beautyland

2008-10-12T13:46:00.003+11:00

If your boyfriend is part of the new-age ‘metrosexual’ phenomenon, then you’re probably getting pretty over him disappearing with your hair straightener when you’re getting ready. Yes, you do like him to look as good as you (well, maybe not that good) but a girl’s gotta have her getting-ready-time, and we all know this can be anywhere between 1.5. to 3.5 hours. Even though most of us do roll out of bed looking pretty darn hot (that’s just in case you were wondering guys).

The point of the matter is once he’s finished styling himself up there’s almost no time at all for you to do your um ‘do. What you need is a portable, small-enough-for-your-handbag straightener. Before you reach for your mouse to click onto your next favourite blog site I’ll let you in on a little secret: they do exist.

If you haven’t been lucky enough to snag yourself one of the pink BaBylissPRO’s 15cm Mighty Mini Straightener’s then shame on you! BaBylissPRO have just released their second range of colours – raven black and high gloss red.
These easy to use high performing hotties will have your hair screaming sex-siren in less than the time it takes to reach your destination. Farrah Fawcett flicks, Kate Hudson straight or Sarah Jessica Parker ringlets are just a car ride away. And better still when you get there you can just slip it back into your handbag for touch ups during the night!

Or if you really wanted to be a good girlfriend to that metro-boyfriend of yours you could always pick him up one for Chrissy and for just $39.95 it’s clearly an investment worth investing into. Just make sure you claim your straightener back before you purchase one for him. To find a stockist near you give the friendly folk at Dateline City a call on 1800 251 215 or you can visit http://www.datelinecity.com/, shoot the guys an email and they’ll shoot you one back telling you exactly where you can find your very own Mighty Mini.

Happy Hair Days!

Girl Next Door xoxo

The saving of daylight – who knew anyone, could write a whole blog entry on the subject?!

2008-09-30T12:25:00.003+10:00

I have a little piece of info that I have wanted to clarify for you (OK and for me) for some time now. It’s something that Sydney-siders go ga-ga over every year. Kind of like our intro to summer. Daylight Savings.

Dating back to the days of our great grandfathers and grandmothers in the U.S of A (of course), during World War 1, the idea of the longer lighting was to save money on fuel. ‘Really?’ I hear you all gasp in astonishment?! Yes! Hard to believe, I know.

So, why do we still have daylight savings then? I mean, yes, understandable that many years ago our grandfathers wanted to save money (I can only hear my grandfather, too clearly, yelling at me to turn the light off when I walk out of a room, not to mention my dad). But, what is the meaning behind the extending of the days during the warmer months? Is it a plea for employers to prolong the working days? So we sit at our computer screens for that extra hour and then don’t realise it’s 7 o’ clock til the cleaner comes in and starts vacuuming around our feet. Is it so we can go to the beach at the end of the working day? I doubt the government would have been that giving!

I have done my research on the subject and it seems that one of the main reasons that daylight savings has been up kept is actually quite simple: safety. Hmmm. Some people believe that if we have more daylight at the end of the day then we will have less accidents. I, for one will not support that ‘theory’. It was less than a week ago when I got an early mark from work and crashed up the bum of the vehicle in front of me. And trust me; it was pretty damn light outside. The accident was caused due to my delayed response to watch what was going on in front of me (duh). It had nothing to do with the sun setting. I have been in a handful of accidents in my life and 100% of them have been in the day. Maybe I’m just lucky?

Basically, I think it comes down to the fact that these days we are more eco-aware. We want to do more to help our slowly disintegrating home we call Earth. Therefore, having the sun’s light keeping our lives lit for longer each day (was that a tongue twister for anyone?) means saving a hell of a lot more electricity and energy, which, in turn makes our Carbon footprint less, um imprinted.

Personally, I LOVE daylight savings and I think a lot of people would agree with me. It marks the start of the warmer months and the Sayonara of the cooler ones.

Daylight savings starts this weekend! Come Sunday you can all breathe a sigh of relief as we lose an hour. Why, you ask? Well, I'll be getting on a flight from Melbourne to Sydney. It departs at 7am. Which actually means it departs at 6am. Which means I will be getting up at 5am. So think of me while you're all sleeping in.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Good vibes are all the rage right now

2008-09-26T10:12:00.007+10:00

If you’re like me and you have not been living in a bubble for the past couple of weeks (those of you reading this that live in the Northern Beaches can no doubt relate) then you would have realised that summer is creeping up on us faster than you can say slip, slop, slap!

Summer means a lot of different things to all of us. One of the main realms of excitement for me lies in those long hot 30 degree (D) days spent at a good ol’ Aussie music festivals.

All you need is your sunnies, high waisted shorts, a cute top (if you’re a chick), I.D and some good dancing shoes – not to mention that drink bottle of whatever you may decide to put in it (only because to buy any drink at a music festival you have to be a millionaire. 1 x Bottle of Water = $6+!!! ). On second thoughts scrap that last sentence, security confiscates all drink bottles on entry anyways.

As some of you know I’ll be missing out on the first instalment of festivals for this year (My trip to NYC will be a festival of its own kind). To get the ball rolling there’s Parklife next weekend, then there’s Harbourlife in late Nov. Then Homebake on the 6th of December. This, my friends, is when the real fun begins. Aussie bands in their element and this year the annual festival brings back one of its finest home grown talent’s ever to touch our soil (cue drum roll): that band is of course Crowded House.

I saw Crowded House play at Homebake back in 2006 and wow, did they get the crowd going! Even though they were the last act, it was unbelievable the amount of people who waited all day to see this band get back together and make the ending to the day Something So Strong.

Next up is Field Day on New Year’s Day 2009. Not one for me, especially after what I heard about the 2007 day. It was 40D and people were overheating and passing out left, right and centre. Fuelled by alcohol and whatever else gets past security is not a good mix in any weather above 30D!

Then there’s Big Day Out (BDO) which I haven’t heard anything about yet – I have always loved this festival but for some reason this year there were just too many people and the whole day was spent standing in lines to get a drink or trying to find a line that wasn’t so long to get a drink. Not so cool.

Good Vibes is my absolute fave festival these days. Not too big and not too small, PLUS they always seem to get the best acts playing – even more so than BDO now.
2007 saw the ‘mystery act’ on the timetable appear as none other than Snoop-Doggy-Dog. You should have seen the crowd when he came onto the stage - the entire festival (a huge sea of people) just migrated straight towards him! It was so surreal to have such a huge celeb playing right in front of us. It helped that I had some Media Passes and was allowed into the Photographer’s Pit to get pics of him. Talk about up close and personal!

So far all I’ve heard for next year’s Good Vibes is that Sam Sparro is playing.
I’m at the point now where I don’t even care who’s playing it’s just such a good day when you’re there with all your mates, there’s such a good vibe (no pun intended - promise!!) you can’t not have a good day. BTW Tickets for this event go on sale 9am October 13th 2008. I’d get in there quick coz these ones don’t last long.

Then there’s V Fest in late March – the last of the festivals for the Australian summer. Boo! But, usually by the time this one finishes up we’re all ready to take a break from festivals for the next 6 months!

Phew! I’m exhausted just writing about them – but also so super excited!!!

There’s only one thing left to tell you now: Bring on Festival Season! YEeeeeeeeeewwwwwwwwwwWW!!!!!!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Need some inspiration for the weekend?

2008-09-19T09:08:00.005+10:00

In this hot, sultry, get-yourself-a-summer-fling kinda weather we’ve been having us Aussies start to get back a little something called ‘motivation’.

After the cold winter months of staying in, snuggling up to your boyfriend (or puppy) and making hot chocolate after hot chocolate (with one too many marshmallows) we decide that, yes, it’s safe to go outside again. Local pubs have made their killing in the winter months – for those of us who crave a night out on the town and can only be bothered to step outside our front door and straight into another one - one with warm air conditioning.

But it’s when the heaters are turned off, the coats are pushed right to the back of the wardrobe and the weather is ALWAYS above 25 degrees the real fun begins. Buh-bye winter – Hu-llo summer! Yep, summer in Australia is more than getting sun burnt; it’s a way of life.

The gym has been packed to the brim every day this week, after our first 28 degree day in about 6 months! Last Saturday Sydney-siders upped the ante on their exercise routine and felt the need to get into shape for those long hot days at the beach.

For some, well for some, it was time to set a World Record. That someone just so happened to be my Uncle. That’s right; Mark Battistella a Sydney born, Central Coast personal trainer led a spin class (FYI: I struggle through my 45 minute class!) of 11 bikes and 200 cyclists on the road to a 26 hour world record. The current world record is 24 hours! They did break for 5 minutes every hour and Battistella snacked on protein bars and a few servings of my *Nonna’s pasta to keep him performing at his best. Now, the big question that I know you’re all dying to know the answer to: Why would anyone want to do this? Jad Raguz, the owner of the Mt Druitt gym that the World Record took place says, “We did this because we wanted to try something so out there, and participate in something outstanding.” They definitely succeeded in that.

My Uncle going for gold!

But, if some of us moan about getting up two mornings a week to exercise, there has to be some kind of super human force behind these people – right Uncle Mark? “It’s all the crazy training, he says, “When the pain barrier comes, it’s the mental part of training that helps.” Too right.

What an inspiration – congrats to everyone who was involved and more importantly congrats to my Uncle Mark!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

*Nonna is Nanna in Italian.

The best thing you can do today (apart from enjoy the sunshine)…

2008-09-15T15:55:00.002+10:00

I’m not being a bossy boots but, I do highly recommend that you flick on over to beautyeditor.com.au after reading this post and check out the latest tips and tricks that are heating up the globe – beauty wise. If it’s advice you’re after you can contact Kat – the site’s creator/editor/beauty extraordinaire/very good friend of Girl Next Door’s and she’ll happily pass on any inside info you need and have you on the road to Happy Land sooner than you can apply liquid eyeliner (properly) onto just one of your eyes.

Freebies galore are just a mouse click away on beautyeditor, the latest comp you can enter gives us the chance to win over $250 worth of Palmer’s Body products. FYI, their Natural Bronze Lotion is A-MAZING! I applied it a few times over the weekend and currently look like I’ve just shimmied off a plane from Hawaii! So a very big thumbs up from moi! Not to mention it smells like a chocolate milkshake – minus the liquid texture and extra calories of course.

If you’re a fan of facebook (and let’s not fancypants around the issue - who isn’t?) then you can also ‘Become a Fan’ of beautyeditor’s site and keep up-to-date with everything that's going on inside the world of beauty. Simple, easy, beautiful (no pun intended). Here comes the link: http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/BeautyEditorcomau/43751747720#/pages/BeautyEditorcomau/43751747720?ref=ts

So if it’s a personal beauty editor you’re after then look no further then beautyeditor.com.au

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

What I've learn't over the past week

2008-08-27T13:37:00.004+10:00

Let's face it, as women our lives are just one huge roller coaster ride of emotions. Waiting to strike us at any waking moment. I've had a few 'free' rides this week, out of nowhere emotions have been clawing at me like a cat to a rug and before you ask - no, it's not PMS. Here are a few tips I picked up from my friends that have helped me cope with the goings-on inside my body.

When you're feeling (and looking) like you've just stepped out of a fight scene from Batman then you know it's time for some pampering. Start by giving yourself a well deserved bubble bath. Light some candles and breathe in the serenity. After letting the bubbles and warm air soak into your pores for a few minutes use a soft loofah sponge with a salt scrub to wash away the day. Rub the sponge in a clockwise then anti clockwise direction. Your body will feel oh-so fresh and smooth. When you emerge from your hot bath take yourself to a basin. Use the tips of your fingers to apply a good mud mask all over your face - be careful not to rub in too much as masks work best when sitting on the surface of your skin. Leave for 10-15 minutes, relax - take a seat and read a book, rinse, then apply a nourishing moisturiser. Your skin will feel like a soft cloud - Mmmm!

Never under estimate the power of having friends around you. If you feel like absolute shite they'll always be there to put a smile on your face, no matter what they have to do to see that frown turned upside down.

Hire yourself a season of Sex and The City and laugh! As if we all don't want to be just like Carrie, the fabulous, successful writer who's only down side is her obsession with Mr Big (OK, it's not exactly a down-side. He is damn sexy!)

Fill your body with nutritious foods. Forget reaching for that chocolate bar or cigarette- it'll give you a high for about 1 minute after you place it in your mouth, then, voila! You're left with a bitter aftertaste of guilt and 'OMG, I need to get to the gym' moments.

Get thyself to a gym (or beach or whatever other type of exercise regime you can think of) . Exercising releases endorphins (those natural chemical's released into your brain when your heart rate is elevated) and endorphins make everything better (trust me!)!

As humans (well, OK as women) we have a tendency to over exaggerate things and basically make a 'drama' out of anything that we can possibly get our hands on. When things feel like they're getting a bit too much for you sit down, breath and make yourself a cup of yummy herbal tea - good ones for winding down include: Chamomile, Peppermint - anything that doesn't have caffeine in it. FYI: Green Tea has a teensy, weensy bit of caffeine in it so steer clear of this one if you want to calm yourself.

Hopefully that will give you some ammo to get through the tough times if you ever need a little extra TLC.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

I have a new job!

2008-08-19T12:53:00.010+10:00

As many of you know, for the past 5 months, I have had a mini-break from the world of publishing. It was time for me to break away from the routine of getting up at 6am every morning. The 9am-5.30pm (plus 3 hours travel time each way) had to come to an abrupt end as I was completely and utterly worn out.

I live a 40 minute drive out of the city (that's without traffic) so I took it upon myself to seek out a job that was closer to home. One that was 'easier' to get to and from each day, one that was 'easier' to handle. I chose a job at my local mall in a shoe store, the girls I worked with were lovely but something just wasn't right. It took me 20 minutes to get home each night but I was striving for something bigger and better. I wanted my old life back. My life of getting up at 6am everyday to beat the traffic on said bus. The life of getting freebies day-in and day-out, anything from food, to drinks, to beauty and fashion products.

One day I decided (after having a pair of shoes thrown at me for not giving a customer a 'discount' coz the shoes had a mark on the bottom of them - mind you the shoes were already half price) that enough was enough. This was not leading my career anywhere and my bank account looked like it had an eating disorder. I was bored of standing around all day dreading an upset customer coming in and making my day un-liveable.

I cleaned out my locker, gave my badge back to my manager and the rest is history.

My new job is with a cute little publishing house in St Leonards, Sydney (Good Health Publications). Yes, I will be making myself very acquainted with Sydney's transit system once again, aka The Bus. But you know what? I don't mind. I'll just be happy to sit in an office with other jounalists and chat about journalisty things, like what we'll have for lunch, what we're making for dinner - oh and really important things like who's going to be on the next cover, and what cover lines are going to make the cover, etc, etc. I'll be working on a number of doctor's journals PLUS putting together pretty much the entire issue of Healthy & Heart Wise Magazine, not sure if you know it, but it's definitely worth a looksie. If you're interested in keeping yourself super healthy and keeping your heart super healthy, then sprint on down to your local newsagent's to score yourself a copy. At only $5.95 remind me why you're still sitting there?

Peace out to all my readers taking the next step to achieving the best for your body and well being (By heading to your newsagent's to get a copy of the mag. Now!) I mean, come on -who doesn't like Mike Munro, one of the biggest journalists Oz has to offer?

Girl Next Door xoxox

P.S Website for said magazine is heartwise.com.au

Ooh, yay a little Jessica lovin'!

2008-08-14T10:40:00.008+10:00

Some exciting news has just fluttered on into the beauty world, wait for it, Jessica. Simpson. Is. Releasing. Her. Own. Fragrance. Yep, you heard correct!

This soon to be released scent entitled Fancy, has notes of apricot, pear, sandalwood and vanilla. Mmm if you like your fragrances sweet smelling and sophisticated then you'll love this. It's being launched officially in the U.S tomorrow but is already available to buy at one of the biggest department stores in the world; Macy's.

I'm sure it will be launched here in Oz, but there is no hint as to when or if it will be as of yet. I will keep you posted though lovelies.

Love, love, love this pic of her - so sassy, wouldn't you want to smell like her?

Just in case there are any more die hard fans out there Jess will release her debut country album, 'Do you Know?', on the 9th of September. Look out for that one y'all.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Do you have BPE (Bad Phone Ettiquette)?

2008-08-08T14:35:00.006+10:00

I’ve just been trying to get in contact with one of my close friends, let’s call her Annie; I’ve repeatedly texted her over the past 48 hours. I’ve called her once, left no message but with the technology of today there is no need to, she can see I’ve called when my number flashes up or when she next ‘checks’ her phone. Do you think I’ve heard back from her? No. Zilch, nada, nothing. Not even a prank call (where she’ll call and hang up giving me the message that she has no credit and can I please call her back).

I’m the kind of person that you’ll always get a reply from, maybe not an instant reply but in most cases (even if I’m busy) I’ll text back or call the person who tried to contact me. I know I’m not the only person who does this; I mean we have phones for a reason, don’t we? So we can keep be contactable even in the furthest part of the world, at any time of the day. My bestie who is currently living OS texts me back straight away or calls me even though there’s a 9 hour time difference and two major seas between us!

I have another friend, Daisy, who was told by many of her friends that she was someone who never replied to text messages and never returned calls. Even if the person left a message asking her to call them back, she never would.
I understand if maybe once or twice this happens, it’s easy to forget to call someone back or glance at your mobile if it’s on silent but to just blatantly not call someone back and not return a text is just BPE.
If Nicole Richie has time to reply to a text, then surely we all do?

The thing with Annie is that she is one of my bestest friends, she’s there when I need a shoulder to cry on, she’s there with a bottle of champas when I’m thirsty and she’s there with an ear and a king size block of Cadbury advice when I’m stressed about anything. But, what about when I want to organise a night out and she’s not answering her phone? Whether it’s due to the fact that she has no credit or maybe she’s screening her calls - does that make her a bad friend or just someone who’s really unreliable with their phone?
Maybe it's me with the problem? Perhaps I'll just let my friends contact me from now on.......

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

P.S Thanks to Celebrity Baby Blog for the pic of Miss Richie.

Passion, Freedom & Peace - Something we should all be preaching

2008-08-03T08:23:00.004+10:00

It’s that time of year again boys and girls; the birds start to chirp a little louder, the flowers start to spread their petals in all shapes, sizes and colours and The Domain gets it’s lawns ready for one of it’s favourite days of the year. Saturday, December 6th is Homebake 2008. The theme for this year is ‘Peace in the Park’.

The famous Aussie festival has teamed up with Amnesty International for their 60th Anniversary of Universal Human Rights, the press release from Homebake reads, “Albeit that we are stating the obvious, this year's spectacular Homebake will focus on an apolitical theme of peace & freedom from conflict without the need for protest – ie; a theme based on a universal attitude of change and with a social slant towards an overall era of wanting (& accepting) of peace & unity.” Basically passing on the message that as human beings we are all born equally. We all have the same rights and freedom advantages as the next person. Or at least we should. Sounds like a pretty fair statement to me and one that we should all support. I also like that Homebake as a brand is doing something good with its popularity. They’re binding us together as one and celebrating our sister and brotherhood to each and every person in this world.

The headlining acts this year are Crowded House, Sneaky Sound System, The Vines, Cut Copy and many more which will no doubt all have something to say about this issue. Homebake is always a great day out showcasing some of the greatest acts our country has to offer. So if you want to get in on the action then head straight to HOMEBAKE.com.au Tickets are $87.50 + booking fee from the site and if you head to Ticketek, FasterLouder & InTheMix you’ll find some there too. If you're not into the whole buying-tickets-online-thing you can also visit one of these supporting outlets to purchase yours; Redeye Records (King Street Sydney City), Mall Music (Warringah Mall), Redback Music Co (Wollongong), Landspeed (Canberra), Rockinghorse Records (Brisbane), BeatDisc (Parramatta). Tickets are available from 9am, Monday August 18th. Oh yeah, and you gotta be over 18 to attend.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

A few things to ponder over the weekend

2008-07-26T08:02:00.009+10:00

Good morning Sunshine's and welcome to another edition of Girl Next Door.

As I sit here in the lounge room of my Northern Beaches apartment on my favourite day of the week, and the sun streams through the blinds, a wave of sadness strikes me, as this is one of the last blogs I will be writing to you from said lounge room. In approximately one week from today I will be moving my belongings back into my home in Avalon - further North than where I am now. I have been living out of home for about 2 years, with my gorgeous boyfriend whom I know you've heard so, so much about! But I don't always post pictures of him (he's a little shy like that). So, as a special treat to you all (and some much needed therapy for myself) I will leave you today with a few images of some fun times we've had together in here.

But before I do, I must comment on this week's biggest media buzz. That is, of course, the launch of Grazia magazine. The new glossy, weekly and in-no-way-trashy mag has hit our stands and landed with an almighty readership. Not that I've seen figures or anything, but, it's all that I've been hearing about! My friends (who don't work in publishing) are raving about the content and the styling and my friends who do work in publishing have a new BFF to get them through those first horrid hours of a Monday morning (not that in publishing you have any horrid hours to work coz it's so fun just being there, but, you get what I mean).

I've actually had a few months off from working in magazines and in my current work place, customers have been coming in each day this week, saying, "I've seen these platform heels in the new issue of, what's that mag? I just have to have them!" my response about 15 times this week was, "Grazia." "Grazia." "Grazia."

Well done Grazia and ACP another mag well done!

And now, I'll leave you with some snippets of life in my Narrabeen apartment from the last 2 years...........CUE FADING MUSIC

Having friends over.....

More friends....these are boyfriend related..ha ha just jokes!

Playing dress-ups.....

Awww, (sniff, sniff) I will miss this place. Til next time ya'll.

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Losing and Finding 101

2008-07-09T13:31:00.005+10:00

I’m about to tell you something and I know exactly what you’re going to think as soon as I tell you, ‘As if, whatever this chick is kidding herself!?!’, but just wait til you’ve read this entire post before making any conclusions/judgements of any kind – got it? Sheesh, sometimes you lot are a hard bunch to please – but that’s why I love you!

Anyways back to my story. Ever since I was a little bubby, fresh out of high school I seem to have had this weird ability(you know like a Heroes kind of one), you see my belongings are kind of like a boomerang – take this Saturday night about 5 years ago, it was a beautiful summer’s night and I had my pink, patent Sportsgirl clutch with me………..

……Inside my clutch that night were the few necessities that every girl should have on a night out – lipgloss (duh, have you read the title of this website), mirror, I.D, money, hip flask (only if I'm on a budget that is). When I go out at night I usually only have a clutch with me. It’s super annoying having to hang onto anything else. What’s that you said? A Cardigan? Meh – who needs them. But, on this particular Saturday night I just happened to get home to my friend's place – let’s call her Brooke, our heads hit the pillow and we were out for the count (you see we were so, so tired coz we’d been up talking and dancing all night at our local pub).

I awoke, abruptly, to the sound of Brooke’s house phone going off.

***

RINGGGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!! RINGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

UGH – Someone GET IT! I hear Brooke’s mum answer the phone and she rushes into the bedroom, ‘Girls, are you OK? Bella – where’s your mobile, your mother has been trying to call it all night?’ Oops. Forgot to tell mum I was staying at Brooke’s house. Mistake Number One. Mistake Number Two, um rewind, ouch my head is pounding – do we have to do this now, OK, a little slower this time, here goes, my. Mum. Has. Been. Trying. To. Call. Me. All. Night……Ummm s#$%! Where’s my mobile? My beautiful flip, pink, Motorola with a built-in camera that I had been saving for like 2 years to get is nowhere to be seen? Double s%#$!

OK, stay calm, by this time Brooke’s mum is shoving the house phone in my face and I can hear Mum on the other end, tsk, tsking away, “Where have you left your phone now, Bella? Hang on there’s a knock at the door, I’ll call you back!” Phew. That yelling wasn’t good for that headache of mine. I scratch around Brooke’s room for my clutch. Now, where did I fling that thing when I came in last night?
It’s not here, it’s not……anywhere.
I started to get that feeling in my throat – you know the one where you throw up in your mouth and have to swallow it again? It's getting you ready for 'that' moment. That moment when you’re about to completely freak out.

RINGGGGGGGG!!!! RINGGGGG!!!

I nearly jumped out of my skin (again), that damn house phone. I pick it up – ‘Hello?’
It’s Mum. ‘Bella, where’s your clutch bag?’, she screams, ‘My clutch, it’s ah, it’s right um. Hhmmmm. It’s not here.’ I finally spit out. ‘Well, lucky for you a nice man just dropped it off, with your phone, I.D and the rest of your crap.’ Oh. Mi. God.

So that’s how that story ended.

Then there was the time ooh, only two days ago where I came home from work and got to my front door ready to have a relaxing night in, I reached for my keys and my apartment keys had mysteriously gone missing from my keyring. The rest of the keys were attached (to my keyring) and I’d only just used them that morning so I searched in my car, on the ground, in my bag and in the car again and couldn’t for the life of me, locate them. I had to drive to my boyfriend to retrieve his keys and then all weekend sat in my apartment scared that someone was going to waltz on up to my apartment, let themselves in and go crazy on my belongings – you know, like, steal them. I got to work on Monday morning desperately searching high and low for my keys but they were still nowhere to be seen. Then as I’m walking to lunch my mobile starts to ring, ‘Hello?’, ‘Hi is this Bella?’ ‘Yes?’ Have you lost a set of keys Miss Bella?’ ‘Yesss?!’ I think you should come down and see us (Centre Management at my local mall); someone has handed in your keys with your Macro (wholefoods supermarket) membership tag attached to them. ‘Ah, great!’ I screamed, but couldn’t figure out how I had managed to attach my name and phone number to my set of keys, the lady must have caught on so continued to explain her findings, ‘It seems that the lady who found your keys contacted Macro and the nice people there gave her your number, then she passed your details onto us.’ Oh. Now it makes sense. Wow isn’t that just dandy.

So you see, every single one of my belongings is a boomerang in its own way.

I guess you could also call it some damn good luck with a dashing of some pretty nice people on my side.

Cheers to them.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Airy Fairy Thoughts

2008-06-30T19:45:00.003+10:00

Just so you know blogettes, I have not gone anywhere but am just currently experiencing a delay in my writing thoughts/posts. No, it’s not writer’s block, it’s just that I have a few things I’ve needed to attend to in the last couple of months (like saving some mula on my Internet bill) and finding that perfect writing job, you know the one where I become a beauty editor and dictate what you next put into your beauty case?

In the mean time I will be posting you updates on my life and the things I am thinking about. Today I have been thinking alot about one of the women I look up to so much, Miss Zoe Foster. If you hadn’t heard this lovely young lady who is very quickly becoming one of the most famous beauty writers in the world, was beauty ed at Cosmo for a few years, then beauty director at Harper’s Bazaar and now Editor-In-Chief of Primped.com.au, oh and ah did I mention she has her own book? Air Kisses, is about a girl who wings her way into becoming a beauty editor and gets dumped by her boyfriend via text message, she decides to get her own back and you can only imagine what happens next…? Well, you could keep imagining or you could go nab yourself your own copy from any good bookstore and at $32.95 you’d be stupid to be sitting there staring at the computer screen – go buy yourself a copy you silly girl!

I’m on my way to Borders right now. Toodles!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

P.S If you've just had lunch/dinner and you're craving something sweet, then head to Zoe's blog, for a dollop of fat free fruityness, it's the perfect way to relieve that choccie craving (minus the calories)!

Is Yoga really that good for you?

2008-06-18T15:03:00.001+10:00

I’m one of those chicks you’d refer to as a Gym-Junkie, no, I’m no anorexic but I do care about my body, what I put in it and how I treat it is one of the most important parts of my life (isn’t it everyone’s?). I’ve been a member of Fitness First for nearly 4 years now and in that time my relationship with the gym has had many stages.

Starting out I just couldn’t get into it, I started going with my friend Bec at lunchtimes, then before work – meaning, getting out of bed at ridiculous hours of the morning and even tried the after work workout. It was just all bad timing, I had nothing to work towards, then I scored myself a full-time boyfriend and it was time to think about how I wanted him to see me and how I felt about my body. Slowly, I started to lose weight, tone up and regain my confidence. Now that I’ve been going for so long, I’ve stopped seeing results, it’s like my body is telling me it’s time to change my workout and move onto something that will start showing results again, you know, mix it up. My mum has always told me (and I hate to admit it, but, mum’s always seem to be right!) I need to get into Yoga, not only for the body benefits but the mind and spirit ones too.

I’ve always thought of Yoga as the easy way out of exercising, the cheater’s guide, if you like. I mean, how can you possibly burn calories when all you’re doing is stretching? Although on the other hand, Madonna, Geri Halliwell and many more trim celebs swear by the Ancient Indian art.

I had to try this ‘exercise’ out for myself, I took advantage of the mid-year sales and bought a Yoga DVD; 10 Minute Solution, Yoga. I have been partaking in the DVD every second morning before breakfast. The good thing about it is that you can make up your own workouts, there are 5 x 10 minute workouts to choose from, each session focusing on a different part of the body. Abs, legs and butt, relaxation, burn and basics, I did 30 minutes this morning – basics, legs and abs and let me tell you I worked up one hell of a sweat, I could smell my armpits from a mile away and when my boyfriend walked in to the lounge room he was wiping sweat from my forehead! I can barely hold my arms up as I type right now, they’re killing me.

I will continue to trial the DVD and let you know what the results are, if I start seeing any more. The teacher on the DVD says that if I practise the DVD regularly I will start to see and feel the difference. I have already noticed there’s a sense of calmness in my body and my day when I combine Yoga into my morning routine.
Maybe my Mum is onto something?

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Choice lovers beware......

2008-06-02T13:08:00.002+10:00

I was doing my fortnightly shop with my boyfriend this morning and we always make a list – you know so we don’t ‘blow our budget’, what we buy is pretty much the same week to week. The necessities for us go a little something like this: bread (gluten/wheat free and normal), milk, vegies, fruit, rice noodles, sultanas, nuts. From week to week we’ll sometimes buy something a little naughty as well, whether that be a tub of ice cream (Connoisseur or Sara Lee), pack of lollies (Natural Confectionery) or a block of chocolate (Swiss Dark) – we usually go for the same brands each time and don’t think outside that square unless absolutely necessary.
I know when my parents go shopping they reach for the brands they know as well, if dad wants a choccie biscuit he’ll reach for the traditional Tim Tam, if mum wants some coffee she’ll reach for the Nescafe traditional flavour. I mean why wouldn’t we, we love the brands and quality we’re getting and there is no need at all to think outside the square – especially if we don’t have a lot of funds to support our decisions.

Which brings me to my point – why do brands such as Tim Tam feel the need to keep introducing more and more flavours of the biscuit when everyone already loves the original flavour? I know for a fact that the new range of Tim Tams aren’t doing well, honeycomb clusters and mocha clusters are bombing at the checkout so have been moved to the ‘on special’ rack at the start of any old aisle. They’re left to expire on their shelves in the hope that someone walking through the cereal aisle will look past their ‘list’ and grab a pack just coz they’re ‘on special’. But the thing is, the reason they were moved to that aisle in the first place is coz they’re not even being picked up.

In a world where variety is the spice of life is there in fact too much choice?

Think about when you head down to your local Gelatissimo or Cold Rock Ice Creamery, there are about 30 different flavours to choose from (at least!) then you can choose what cone you want it or whether you want it served in a cup, what toppings you want on or inside the ice cream. Don’t know bout you but, take me back to the good ol’ Neapolitan ice cream days where the only flavours to choose from were chocolate, strawberry and vanilla.

Do you think dropping all the choices we have these days (the ones we don’t ‘need’ but ‘desire’) see a drop in the amount of cash we’re ringing up at the register?

Today we have never had so much choice and although a range of choices is always good I do believe 2008 marks the year that obesity has well and truly hit rock bottom – literally. In the year 2000, the Australian population alone had over *47% of women and 63% of men overweight - that was 8 years ago - imagine what that percentage is like now. Don’t even get me started on the United States. I really believe that if we did get rid of all the un-necessary choices in the market right now – i.e Pizza Hut and Domino’s ever expanding pizza flavours, random milk/juice/cordial flavours and yoghurt/desserts our world would be a happier and less greedy place. If the supermarkets went back-to-basics and used the ingredients that were all made and produced from the land, soil and animals the world would be a better (and less pudgy) place to live in.

Let me know your thoughts.

Peace Out Food Lovers,

Girl Next Door xoxo

*Info courtesy of Nutrition Australia (2000)

The discoveries of the world waiting to be made......by us!

2008-05-24T13:56:00.005+10:00

“Riding on camels and donkeys at sunset, sailing down The River Nile on a felucca boat, smoking Shisha, dancing with a Nubian tribe and visiting mummy tombs…”

No I’m not on drugs, I just received the most magical postcard in the mail from my bestie who is currently riding a wave of unbelievable experiences. Packing up just 4 weeks ago and leaving her dream job in a bid to discover new cultures and explore this amazing and magical world we live in.

If you hadn’t guessed from the extract of the postcard I printed, my soul mate (in a bestie) is in historic Egypt – oh what I would give to travel to such an exciting place! As Ancient History was one of my favourite subjects back in school I know the history of the place is just unspeakable. In the 20cm postcard Phoebe sent me, I can almost smell the aroma of the musty, 38 degree, arid, desert. Apart from the fact that exposing yourself to a country like Egypt you jeopardise you health; the experiences had and seen are far worth the sacrifice of clean water and food.

Although I have been lucky enough to live a few overseas family holidays in my time I know I haven’t even begun to see the world. Vague memories of California, Detroit, Hawaii, Paris, Italy and Spain are stamped in my memory and photos take me back to those moments in my life that can only be described as incredible.
The only thing that stands between me and my next trip is 6 months, that’s right I’ve decided that life only comes around once (not to mention you 20’s) and it’s time for me to break free of my Northern Beaches bubble and do the one thing that I am best at; have fun!! I swear if there were jobs in having ‘fun’ I’d be the Director!

On the 23rd of December 2008 (at approx. 3.15pm) I fly out of Sydney and into New York City (JFK Airport where I meet my bestie Phoebe), for 13 whole days we’ll explore the shopping, sites and food that NYC has to offer – did I mention I’ll be in the city that never sleeps for Christmas AND New Years Eve? Oh, it must have slipped my mind! Then on the 4th of January 2009 (at approx. 9.15pm) I’ll wave goodbye to Miss Liberty, fly out of NYC and into London, Heathrow Airport (at approx. 1.25pm, 5th of January). The plan is to stay in London where my dear friend Phoebe will be living. For approx. 15 days – give 5 more perhaps, where we’ll never give up on the good times - Spice Girls style. It’s what we really, really want – zig-a-zig ah! Sounds like a whirlwind of fun – right? I know you're getting super jealous right now but you know what you can all do it too! Its just a matter of finding the right moment, friends and money to make your dream a reality! Whatever it is just do it coz you only live once!

Here’s to 6 months of saving and enjoying every minute of it!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxox

P.S Thought you knew everything there is to know about Thoughts? well think again coz good friend of Thoughts, Frangipani Princess grilled Girl Next Door only a couple of weeks ago to find out what really makes me tick - check out her entertaining blog at: frangipaniprincess.blogspot.com

Goss galore!

2008-05-14T17:03:00.006+10:00

First of all my apologies go out to all my regulars who have been waiting patiently on the next instalment of Thoughts. Unfortunately my current job doesn’t allow me access to a computer for the entire day, which means my relationship with Word and Blogger has become quite inexistent (I know I wonder how I’m still living too).
I promise you that whenever I get a chance now I am on here coming up with potential story ideas and ways that I can keep your undivided attention – even those days where I don’t post!

There’s a couple of things I wanted to touch on today, firstly that scandal that’s hit the entire media circus of Sydney. What all began as a simple story in ‘The Sealed Section’ in CLEO mag – just a few loved up couples showing their affection towards eachother and being kind enough to share it with us. One parent complained to the school where Lynne Tziolas taught at (who probably hasn’t had sex. Ever. Not even to conceive her child) complained to Narraweena Public School’s principal and in one afternoon one of the most loved teachers in the school was given the boot. The story first featured in The Manly Daily (my local paper) over a week ago on the front page (Friday 9th of May 2008 to be precise) as you may have guessed not much happens round The Northern Beaches and I’m not kidding you – every issue of The Manly Daily since that first one has had some update of the incident. Whether it be about the many petitions that the parents and friends associations are starting to get Tziolas back on the books, yesterday it was all about how one child (in year one) started a petition to get her teacher back. Being an intern at CLEO nearly every week, I am outraged at the accusations towards such an influential and empowering mag.

Thanks to smh.com.au for the pic

Since when has a 9 year old even taken interest in a mag with as old as a readership as CLEO mag – in saying that I mean these kids are barely reading Girlfriend and Dolly – let alone CLEO. I have the issue sitting right next to me and the shoot has been done in very good taste – I’m not that into perving on naked couples but, hey, it has to be said – they look hot. Not that you can even see ‘anything’. Pfft with whoever is being so close-minded! Get over yourselves!

I’d love to know your thoughts on the scandal!?

Next thing – the count down to the Sex and the City Movie is on! Only 23 days to go!! Can you wait? Coz I know I can’t!! Did I mention I am visiting the before meantioned home town of NYC? No?! Oh well, let’s just say the city that never sleeps and myself will be getting very acquainted in approximately 7 months from now (and yes, that is Christmas and New Years!)!!!

The awesome foursome looking trendy as in down town NYC

The last of my yarn ends on one of the most anticipated series returns of the year (not) Big Brother 08 – yawn! Despite being very excited to see how Kyle and Jackie O tackle The House I was a little disappointed. I mean, what’s with the house mates this year??? Kyle and Jackie O I love you both long time and congrats on the new gig, but, I’m just a bit confused by the bunch of freaks that are in there this year? All Dixie does is eat and sleep, Saxon – well he was the first evicted and that says it all, then there’s Nobbi – who’s probably the most entertaining out of the lot, grandma needs to take a trip back to her home town and Blondie needs a slap across the face straight back into reality, right after slap Princess Sparkles back there too. Corey is probably the most interesting in there and even he annoys me how he doesn’t want to get under anyone’s skin – he really shows how young he is when he declines tasks from Big Brother. Not that I’m watching it or anything – this is just from speculation forums you know – hehe??

Love, love, love these entertaining/glam hosts but the housemates are another story......

Anyways Bloggettes please send me an email about anything – what you’re doing if you’re enjoying Thoughts, if you miss me writing often. Any of your thoughts would be lovely. Thoughts@live.com.au

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxoxox

"Why would you wanna watch over-weight people lose weight?"

2008-05-04T07:30:00.005+10:00

"Umm, because it's inspirational for a start! Watching people overcome their fears and obstacles helps you get through your own. Why do you think the 'reality' of such a series does so well and is worth thousands of dollars? Like, duh!"

Just a little extract from a conversation my boyfriend and I were having with one of his friends a couple of weeks ago. Obvi, we were discussing the show where transformations are a reality and over-eating is merely a thought (and for those who took the plunge an extra 6 hours in the gym)from last week's 'Temptation'. I am of course referring to one of the biggest make over shows currently invading our prime time hot spot: The Biggest Loser.

Finishing up last week the monster of all shows took us through 3 months of 12 overwieght Aussie's and their journey's. The trainers (what I would do to train with them!) Michelle Bridges and Shannon Ponton delved into the contestants private lives and brought out the reasons behind what exactly made them 'fat' and brought their problems to the surface, somewhere where Australia could see them too. They overcame their obstacles with hard work and determination and showed the nation how strong they really are. Then, in all their glory, new outfits (and spray tans) came out onto the stage on Thursday night and flaunted their brand new bodies to Australia.

Although I love this show I do have to question it. These people are thrown into an extreme exercise and eating routine as soon as they enter the house - there was one week where the two teams got to choose their meals for the week. The choice was either cabbage or unmarked tins of food. Never in the outside world would they ever be faced with this dilemma. It's unrealistic. Surely a task where they were sent to the supermarket to pick out their own ingredients for meals for the week would have been more educational for them?

And what about the 'Temptations', where the contestants were faced with meals of up to 3000 calories? In an attempt to gain Immunity for the week (to stay in 'The Game') they would gorge themselves on the first thing they could get their hands on. This was happening right up until the second last week of the reality show. Then they'd be punished in the gym for up to an extra 6 hours that night. I feel like running til I can't run anymore when I eat a Maxibon sometimes but do I actually do it? 60% of the time, that answer is no. They shoudl be teaching the contestants it's not evil to eat something 'bad' from time to time, we need to otherwise our cravings will get the better of us and we'll end up eating that whole block of Cadbury Dairy Milk or that whole packet of Tim Tams.

The exercise routine they were involved in was up to 8 hours every single day of the week. That's alot of exercise for someone who's never set foot on a treadmill before, sometimes I find it hard to get up the energy/motivation to go for 20 minutes and I'm a gym-junkie!

An inspirational weightloss from Sean

In past Biggest Losers many of the contestants have put the weight straight back on as soon as they're back home. It just goes to show how easily and quickly they can slip off the band wagon, as quickly as they jumped onto it. Take a contestant from this year, for example, Sean who's starting weight was 174.6kg - one of the biggest on the show to begin with, his goal weight was 94kg. He's now at 94.8 and looks like a different person - I didn't recognise him when they brought him out on the finale night! He lost almost 100kg in 3 months. It's not healthy to lose weight so fast - if you spoke to a personal trainer they'd tell you 1-2kg every 2 weeks is what's healthy. Remember the fireman last year? He was super thin when he was on the finale but has now put a few kilos back on - enough for us to be able to notice. Even the gorgeous Fiona from 2006's series has put some of it back on. I have spoken with alot of my friends about this - even ones that are personal trainers and they don't really rate the show for this reason. It should be part of the program that when they get out of The House, they get involved with a personal trainer regularly and get as much nutritional help as possible. Cause the journey isn't over yet - it's not even close. They've been lucky enough to be monitored for the past 3 months, their next obstacle is to keep away from the kitchen in the coming months.

Don't get me wrong though, these people have come a long way. Losing weight when you're that overweight takes alot of courage and determintation. The amount of weight each and every one of the contestants lost is inspirational - my congratulations goes out to them and all of their families - best of luck in the future guys, now you can go on living a long, and healthy life.

The Yummy Mummy all of Oz are talking about

I can't sign off though, without giving a special mention to my fave contestant, Yummy Mummy Alison. Her starting weight was 121.7 kg and she now weighs 66.5kg - her goal weight 60kg. She was grams away from taking out The Biggest Loser crown this year and becoming the world's first female Biggest Loser. You were always a winner in my eyes Alison - Girl Power! And what an inspirational transformation!

On that note, I'm off to the gym.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxoxo

P.S Thanks to biggestloser.com.au for the pics.

What is the meaning behind true success?

2008-04-20T21:45:00.002+10:00

Fresh out of a screening of Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion (in my loungeroom) has got me thinking about something that has plagued my mind for the past 5 years – ever since I left high school. I was always the unlucky one at school, I got teased for my foreign last name, wasn’t exactly the dux of the school and had one too many a-hole guys make my life in high school something that I would rather not remember.

I finished my High School Certificate (HSC), got my UAI – which I was planning on taking to uni to do a communications degree with – although it had other plans for moi: a grand total of 33.4% left me in a bit of a rut. I called my friends at the place I had spent my last 3 school holidays: Girlfriend Magazine and within 48 hours I had my dream job at my fingertips. No longer was I the ‘nobody chick’ who had the non-reciprocal crushes on the cutest boys in primary school or the girl who lusted after being in the popular group. I was me and being myself is what got me the most amazing first job anyone could ever think of. I had it all: The Job which of course equalled Success. I can even recall the day I got my first set of business cards, complete with my mobile telephone number on them. I went out to my usual Thursday night hang (Northern Beaches A.A) and handed them out like it was going out of fashion. By the end of the night one of my friends came running up to me screaming, “Bella, I was just dancing on the d-floor and could feel something under my foot, I picked it up and there was your business card stuck to the bottom of my shoe.” I couldn’t have wished for more. I was in my element. Until I started to take my 'success’ for granted. Those Thursday night pub trips became a habit that were far too familiar. Getting home at the crack of dawn was a normal part of my life, which left Fridays not exactly at most productive. Little did I know that what I was doing was actually not that normal at all and putting my job in major jeopardy. After being close to losing one of most amazing experiences of my life, I was given an ultimatum. Pull up your socks, focus on the job you have or move over, after all a million girls would kill for your job. It was the slap in the face I needed and I got out of my toxic habits and back into a routine where I could perform at my absolute best.

I bet those of you who knew about my first job are very surprised: the glitz and glamour of having an amazing job is not as easy as it seems. Lesson One: Success is not about what you’re doing, it’s about how you’re doing it.

I could name you about 10 women who have shaped the meaning of success for me over the past 5 years. Out of those 10 I'll share 3 with you.
Number One: My Mum. There you go thinking ahead of yourself again – no my mum and I have not always had the most perfect relationship, infact there are times in my teenage/adolescent years where I think she could have killed me (figuratively speaking). I haven’t exactly been an angel all my life and have put my mum through some tough times, not to mention everything she has experienced herself. Without going into it into detail I can tell you that I have never seen such determination. My mum has single handedly started up her own business and still has time to be a mum to me, my brother and my sister. Did I mention that 6 months ago she had severe Chronic Fatigue and could not even get out of bed? Now that's what I call success. Or my best friend, we’ll call her Phoebe (he he), made me realise something quite spectacular just the other night; for the past 5 years I have been trying to work my way up the magazine ladder, my dream is to one day be a beauty writer/editor for a magazine in Sydney/New York/London. The past 18 months of my life have revolved around this dream. Phoebe explained to me her move in the next 2 years – having just given handed over the reigns of Junior Fashion Ed at Girlfriend Magazine this girl was at the peak of her career, although that was her dream, now her dream is to travel the world, explore new places and people and enjoy life. She doesn’t care what job she has as long as she’s earning enough money to have fun. Another amazing success story.

And, how about the many women who I have been given the privilege to work with over the past 5 years – how they’ve followed their dreams and how success has shown up on their doorstep. My ex-boss, Miss Sarah Oakes – now ex-Girlfriender who had a dream to make Girlfriend Magazine Number One (Dolly has always been Number One according to logistics) in the space of 3 years she took a magazine that many girls glanced at to making every teen who reads Dolly pick up Girlfriend instead and become as passionate as she is about it. Now only 450 copies are separating the two mags. Talk about close! Now current Editor of Cleo Magazine, future Editor-in-Chief of every woman’s magazine possible (OK maybe not gospel yet but anything is possible).

Do you smell success? Coz I certainly do. All the things these women have in common?
They have followed their dreams.

They have helped me understand my dreams and even if I don't have them right now that's OK. What would a dream be if it was all wrapped up and given to you straight away anyways? What's important is that I have dreams. Even if I turn up to my 10 year high school reunion working at McDonalds. As long as I stay true to my dreams, I am successful. Like so many of the women I look up to.
You know who you are.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Festival fever is no more

2008-03-31T09:55:00.007+11:00

Sydney put to bed one of their favourite seasons on Saturday - festival season. No longer will Oxford St (and the rest of the city) have swarms of people swimming out of the gates and into the pubs, the streets will be quiet and back to the normal drinking ways of the locals and the many backpackers. But don't think that for one minute that V Festival was anything like the rumours spread for last year's event. Oh no. There was so much organisation it was ridiculous. The crowds were so....normal and nice. The vibe was nice, inviting - one girl I spoke to who was visiting from California, USA said, "The vibe at this festival is so laid back and nice - is that possible at a festival? I don't know how i t can be but it totally is."

The acts (most of them) all lived up to their hype - Modest Mouse rocked out the beginning of the afternoon and got the crowd going, closely followed by Cut Copy........ad well, hhhmmm how do I put this nicely? They sucked. I was psyched to see them and I had been counting down the acts to them all day, only to be disappointed by them. Their sound was really soft - like not loud enough and they just couldn't get the crowd into it. Even when they played my fave song Time Stands Still, I was forcing myself to get into it - that's just not cool, I left after only 4 songs - yep that's 20 minutes into their 60 minute set.

Amy and myself getting into festival gear! (above)

The next act I saw was Duran Duran and I LOVED them! They really got the crowd going and I mean really! They did a close up shot on one of these chicks standing in the crowd - you know how they show you on the big screen, well she lifted her top up - saw it ALL! Then another chick was dancing sexily - just hilarious! The lead singer was a definite crowd pleaser chatting to the crowd and endorsing girls who want to lift their tops up; pfft don't try that one at home guys - actually don't try it anywhere!

Marco & Sal - enjoying The Presets! (above)

To finish out the night was The Presets, having seen these guys once before one lovely Sunday afternoon on a boat (long story) I knew they'd be great. What I didn't know was that they would be AWESOME! Check out my psychedelic pic below!

And judging from the looks on mine and my friends faces (above) we had a pretty amazing time. All I wanted was the season to go out with a bang and it surely did. Til next time festivals......

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxox

P.S What festivals did you go to this year? Leave me a a comment and let me know what you enjoyed or didn't enjoy, what you thought could have been a bit better - any comments would be lovely fellow festival lovers!

It's that time of month again.......

2008-03-27T08:41:00.007+11:00

Not the time of month that us women (and most men) dread - this time of month is minus the mood swings and hot water bottles, do I have your attention?

It's (possibly) one of my last hoo-rahs for the year. One of the last times I can possibly cross my heart and go a little crazy - festival style!

That's right, this Saturday is V (V stands for Virgin Mobile) Fest, the festival to end all festivals (for me anyway). And for those who read Thoughts regularly would know how much I adore festivals.

V Fest starts at 1pm on Saturday at Centennial Park. The line up for this year's V Fest is one of the best. Now, don't get me wrong I have loved every single festival I've attended this year but to be honest, some of the line ups were a little bit disappointing. Big Day Out had it's usual stand outs - Grinspoon (TDF), Rage Against The Machine (Meh!), Silverchair (I think everyone officially hates Daniel Johns). Good Vibes; Potbelleez (WHHooooo), Kanye West (so not Strong) and DJ's galore! Now V Fest - Cut Copy, The Presets, Duran Duran, The Smashing Pumpkins, Queen of the Stone Age, Mika (pulled out a couple of months ago - v disappointing). Need I say more?!?

Maps and Times for Sydney V Festival this Saturday!

It's an all star line up and I'll be there with my camera ready to take in all the action and report straight back to you. If you are attending then leave me a comment and I'll try and find you and get a pic of you to post on here. That's right, I'll be doing vox-pops (interviews) with you guys so look out for me heading towards you with my digi camera, pen and paper. Start practising your pose in the mirror tonight!

See ya'll on Saturday!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

I told you she’s amazing!

2008-03-19T15:28:00.005+11:00

Samantha Wills - that is. Remember that ring I fell in love with? Well, Miss Wills found my blog, contacted me herself to thank me for writing about her and her jewellery line. Do you wanna have a guess what she sent me? If you’re thinking of the TDF Ballara (peacock) ring, then you’re right! Lucky thing, I am!

Wills, 26, will be shooting her latest campaign for her Red Carpet Collection in New York at the end of the month courtesy of Revlon. And as if her jewellery line wasn’t keeping her busy enough the leggy local will be the new female reporter for The Footy Show, one of her first on-air activities will involve making over some of the footy players we know and love. Move over Lara Bingle, Wills is also the new face of Tourism NSW. With this rising star heading up, up and away Thoughts caught up with her to see how she’s coping with all this exposure.

T: The Footy Show, your new collection shoot taking place in New York (courtesy of Revlon) and the new face of Tourism NSW - phew! How are you coping with all the exciting opportunities you have coming up? Do you still have time to relax and just be you?

SW: It is a very exciting time for both myself and the company at the moment. All these opportunities have been presented at once and I couldn't do them all without the support of my amazing team. There is not a lot of time to relax at the moment (I am answering these questions whilst eating dinner in my hotel room in L.A before I have to head out again for another meeting!) however I love to be busy, so I wouldn't want it any other way!

T: What are you looking forward to the most?

SW: I am looking forward to it all! The Footy Show is exciting as I love to do unscripted TV! The Revlon opportunity is being shot in New York - I've never been to New York so this will be an exciting adventure which I am really looking forward to and the Tourism NSW opportunity is something I am very proud to be a part of, as I am extremely proud to be from NSW and it is an honour to endorse the state.

T: Do you find you have enough hours in the day to do everything?

SW: No!! That is why I have an amazing team around me. I couldn't do what I do without them! T: Did you ever imagine 5 years ago you'd be where you are today? SW: Not in a million years! If you asked me that question yesterday I still wouldn't believe it!! Everyday I pinch myself - I am living beyond my dreams & enjoying every moment of it!

T: What do you do to relax and chill out?

SW: When I do have time to relax, I love to just hang out with my boyfriend & friends. I love going to the beach and just reading a book or catching a movie. Sounds pretty boring, but when I am on the go for the majority of the week, doing absolutely nothing when I am able to is bliss!

T: What's next for Samantha Wills?

SW: Well, for the label, we are about to release our spring/summer collection for Australian Fashion Week. I am also over in the US at the moment showing the collection over here. For me, I am pretty busy over the next couple of months with my commitments listed above as well as growing the label in an international market, who knows what else the universe will bring - if it’s anything else like it’s brought in the last 6 months, I say, bring it on!!

Peace Out,
Girl Next Door xoxo

Got a mid-week celebrity itch? Get yours scratched right here

2008-03-19T08:45:00.009+11:00

Fears for Lisa Veronica's Health.....

I hate to be the bearer of bad news bloggettes, but, one of Thoughts sources spotted the twins out last week, one half of the pop-rock singing Veronica's - Lisa. She's doing a bit of Mary-Kate Olsen and going down the I'm-not-going-to-eat-anything path. Having seen many of my friends go down this path many years ago and slightly touching on this path myself, my heart goes out to her and her family - especially her twin. Constantly in the spotlight for the last few years and having everything on show for the world to see could be just a few of the contributing factors to this deadly disease currently intoxicating our once untouched Lisa. Hopefully it's just a phase for our lil' Lisa.

Fears for one half of our favourite Aussie duo, Lisa (left)

Kate's collection on thin ice
In other celeb-town news Kate Moss's P.A resigned on her last week and her newest Top Shop line (this is her fifth collection) has hit rock-bottom and has bombed at the checkout....Another one who has to get her act together and get off the drugs...Hollywood is a hard place to live these days.

No more lines for this once Top Shop favourite - how ironic

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxox

Steve-O loses his marbles

2008-03-17T10:43:00.002+11:00

If you thought the star of Jackass couldn't get anymore eccentric, crazy and well, loopy - think again. Steve-O has been put on suicide watch after sending a threatening and chilling note via email to 33 of his friends. U.S Star magazine reported that he was taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center late Sunday afternoon, he was then transferred to Thalians Mental Health Center where he will be under close watch for the next 14 days. "Steve started flipping out. says Star magazine's source, "He told doctors he wanted to hurt himself badly. He wanted to break every bone in his body one by one. He was also treated for burns on his skin as if he had been putting cigarettes out on his own body.” Now on medication, friends and family hope that the crazy star will recover.

Speculation has predicted O having a nervous breakdown for sometime now. Earlier in the month the star was arrested for vandalising his neighbours possessions and being caught for cocaine possession only last week, it's easy to see what may have set off his erratic behaviour.

Star's source says, "He doesn’t need jail, he needs therapy. We’re just really hoping that this will be the wake-up call that gets him back to himself.”

Do yourself a favour Steve - get off the drugs.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

So, what do you think?

2008-03-14T12:38:00.002+11:00

As promised I have posted a pic of me with my new hair!

I won't go into detail as to how long I was in the hairdressers yesterday arvo as I'm not sure how much time you have to waste? I will let you in on a little secret though; I entered the salon at 1.30pm and emerged at 5.45pm, if my calculations are correct I was in there all up about 4.5 hours. Let's just say that I won't be floating back to that salon anytime soon. If anyone knows any really good hairdressers in the Northern Beaches please, leave me a comment!

I am happy with the colour now. After a permanent tint that went horribly wrong, not to mention flat, a full head of foils (not sure how easily you can see them in the pic) brightened up my locks. I am no longer plastic-fantastic-Barbie but a more sophisticated Skipper-with-tude'.

My CLEO internship started on Wednesday, I entered the office and instantly felt like I was L.C (from Laguna Beach/The Hills) interning at Teen Vogue in NYC! The vibe is so upbeat, happy and friendly. The freelance designer I had to kick off the computer I was using started telling me she'd been looking at different sex positions all morning for a story she was designing. Umm, I'm sorry - what was that? Sex positions? Did I mention I was heaven?!

CLEO is such a completely different magazine to what I've ever been involved in. Remember when you were at school and you either sat with 'your friends', or the 'cool/popular girls'? Remember that feeling you got when one of those girls complimented you on something you were wearing? That's how I felt sitting with the CLEO girls all day! Look out for upcoming beauty articles co-written by me!

I best be off, I have an appointment with Palmy - you know Palm Beach?

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

Where Thoughts is at....

2008-03-10T19:42:00.003+11:00

In an attempt for me to make this blog more about you – my reader and less about myself – the creator I must give you an update on where you hostess is at in her life.

I am currently sitting in my loungeroom typing this in between eating my dinner and watching So You Think You Can Dance (I wonder who will go tonight?). Today my day started off with a trip to the gym, next it was time to brace myself for my once a month beautician appointment – I hadn’t been for probably about 8 weeks which made this visit that little bit more painful (my – what we girls go through for the men in our lives). Then I went and bought some fruit came home and started watching Employee of the Month, starring Jessica Simpson and Dane Cook. Dane = Yum and Jessica = Dumb – in this movie anyways. A story about a girl who only dates - well I bet you can guess that one - it's worth a look if you're home sick one day - there's a fair few comedians cast and the outtakes are entertaining. Boasting the Producers from Wedding Crashers if you're into those random one-liners then you'll get a laugh out of this one. Sorry Jess, you can sing but when it comes to acting you should probably leave it to the professionals. Or ask one of your bestie’s Eva Longoria or Christina Applegate for an acting lesson or two. I have posted the preview (below) for Employe of the Month for you to judge yourself.

After this I trotted on down to the beach, read a book which I have been meaning to read ever since I received it – exactly a year ago. I then came home and here I am sitting here typing this post. But, you know what? Today wasn’t Saturday. Today wasn’t Sunday. Today was Monday.

Why, you ask would I be at home on a Monday? I am officially a Lady of Leisure, for this week anyway. I am starting an internship at CLEO magazine on Wednesday – which I am exceptionally excited about and have a few interviews spread throughout the week, so will keep you posted as to whether or not I hit the jackpot and find the right one.

As for you readers – you lucky things you – I will be attending to your every need whilst I am a Lady of Leisure so please, stop by, say hi.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxo

P.S I will get you a pic of my hair - I haven't forgotten, it's just that the colour has faded completely (I only got it done on March 1st) so when I get it re-done this Thursday I will post a pic!

Do you have HCE (Hair Colour Envy)?

2008-03-04T10:35:00.004+11:00

Something happened to me over the weekend; I decided I wanted a change.
Not just any change - I decided on my way to my hair appointment that I was going to go a shade darker. As you can see from my profile pic on the right, my usual hair colour is bright blonde. I’ve always been a fan of a Jessica Simpson/Nicole Richie blonde, in fact when I showed my hair dresser the pic that I wanted her to match (a dark blonde with copper highlights) she nearly fell over backwards.
As we were going through the colours together and she slowly but surely we were moving away from the lighter yellow-ish blondes and more into the strawberry, sunkissed blondes I was getting a little excited/scared/doubtful all at the same time. Usually with this much of a drastic change I’d swip and swap the colours to end up matching the colour I begun with. But I stopped those thoughts as soon as they entered my head and changed them to ‘You know what? It’s time for a change, I’m finishing up my job this week, it's a new chapter to my life - so stuff it.'
Change is definitely a good thing at this point in my life.

After waiting the average 2 hours to walk out of the salon with my colour I was surprisingly happy. I didn’t call my boyfriend the minute I stepped outside to cry my eyes out to him but instead rocked up to his friends house and shimmied on in with the confidence of Paris Hilton dancing on a table top at Hyde Nightclub to see if him and his friend noticed anything different about me. ‘You look really tired’, said his friend.....not exactly the reaction I was hoping for. ‘Hot stuff babe, nice hair’ Boyfriend said (he always knows what to say when I arrive back from the hairdressers, good boy he is), ‘Really - you think?’ I replied as I flicked, adjusted, and checked my new locks out in the closest window. To put it bluntly I was loving the new look. That was Saturday exactly 2.5 days ago.

Nic and Paris - lovely and blonde.....

How do I feel today about the new look, I hear you ask? Well, here's the thing; every time I see a pic of me on Facebook with my blonde locks, everytime I see that pic down the side of my blog of Jessica Simpson, everytime I see Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie, Paris Hilton or any other blondes on the streets I get Hair Colour Envy (HCE).

Miss Sienna - Another blonde I have HCE of.....

Has anyone else ever got HCE when they’ve swapped hair colours? Or is it just me?
I know at least one of you share my pain!

Peace Out,
Girl Next Door xoxox

P.S Pics of new hair colour to come next week. Stay tuned!

My - how time flys!?!?!?

2008-03-02T10:21:00.004+11:00

It seems like only yesterday that I was counting down the days til summer. Now as I sit here on a lazy Sunday morning all I can see are the dark, grey clouds that lure over the Northern Beaches. But, wait a minute this all sounds a little too familiar.....

I don't know how you guys feel about the whole summer-was-here-for-half-a-minute thing but I feel really ripped off. Not only did my summer holiday get rained out (and I was in Queensland!) but when I returned from my summer holiday I received 2 days out of the WHOLE entire 'summer' where I actually sat on a beach. Those days happened to be last Saturday and Sunday....and now it's Autumn......so not fair! What a poor effort!

The summer I dream't of........

One of my friends was also complaining to me about the fact that she'd been shopping everywhere at lunchtime (and we work in the centre of the city - 2 minutes walk from Pitt St Mall) she'd found nothing, nada, not a thing to buy and she was willing to spend up to $300 on a dress for her weekend night out. We came to the conclusion that this is because right now, in store it's 'in-between seasons' which basically means that they're not selling any summer stock anymore (it's either been sent back to their head office's or still on the $20 sale rack - which only has really big/really small sizes left on it) winter is 3 months away and they're too busy preparing for that.......Preparing...uummm to be honest I feel like I've been preparing for winter the entire summer!

.............The summer I got

All I want to know is what happened? Why were we so jipped on our summer in Sydney and Queensland? Even Melbourne was hotter!

If anyone can point me into the direction of why this is, please leave me a comment or send me an email at thoughts@live.com.au

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxoxoxo

Shiny, hip and brand spanking new!

2008-02-27T15:17:00.002+11:00

You may have noticed that I have added a few different elements to my blog.

This is because I want you to let me know what you think! That's right, I want to know all about YOU - everything and anything at all!
What movies you watch, which celebs you love, what music you listen to, what you eat, where you shop! The lists are endless!

This will ultimately help me deliver you a better blog. One that you will enjoy so much you'll be clicking the 'Back' button every morning before brekkie, every afternoon after lunch and every night when you get home before you chow down dinner!

So, please - get involved! Click on the survey result which most applies to you, send me an email with suggestions or sign the Thoughts Guest Book by sending me an email telling me what you love most about Thoughts! Your suggestion could wind up being written about on an upcoming post!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxox

And the nominations for best dressed are.........

2008-02-26T10:39:00.008+11:00

Just coz I know you haven’t read/heard enough about The Academy Awards over the past few days I bring you my recollection of the event.

As I sat on my bed with my pen and paper at 8.30pm last night I couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to be Richard Wilkinson! Every year he's up there with the stars (and the other 98655 press) interviewing them and chatting to them about their dresses/tuxedos and asking them how they got ready for Hollywood’s night of nights!
Just for the record though, I would ask a few different questions, you know throw some novelty questions in there - just for fun! Like; Who do you think will win The Oscar for best director? Who do you think will party the hardest at the official after party (which over 1500 A-list celebs attend each year)? Who do you think will stray from their wife/girlfriend/boyfriend/husband/fiancé tonight and tongue wag with another celeb?
Being apart of Hollywood’s elite and most fabulous who do you think is the biggest player out of the men (cough-George Clooney-cough) and the women (cough-Charlize Theron-cough)?
I bet Channel 9’s ratings would sky-rocket if I was their entertainment presenter – hell I could start my own E! news - what do you think?

Back to the red carpet. One of the stand outs for me last night was Miss Cameron Diaz, she had the complete package (apart from the half done hair, but let’s face it she pulled it off), the dress and accessories were down right amazing! The dress fell so sweetly on her and the ballet pink colour was a breath of fresh air.

Next on my best dressed list was Katherine Heigl – this chick is such a glamazon and just can’t get it wrong! The scarlet red, off-one-shoulder gown she donned was just TDF! She looked 3 million bucks, whilst still looking effortlessly chic – not many people can do that!

Jessica Alba seems to be on alot of the worst dressed lists this morning but I think she looked radiant! She was glowing from head to toe in her floor length frock and even though she looks like a pregnant teenager (which is not a bad thing!) she was looking stunning.

Anne Hathaway – another in red wore a beautiful, Roman-esque, off-one-shoulder dress with roses floating down her strap onto the gown. Her make-up was chic and stunning - a smoky eye with a light red lip – red lip being quite popular last night. What I love about Hathaway is that she’s so Girl Next Door, she looks like someone I could be besties with!

An honourable mention goes to model/singer/yummy mummy/owner of the best accessory on the red carpet (husband/singer Seal), Heidi Klum, who surprise-surprise was in red but she really did shine. LOVE the pink accessories! Man, if I look that good after having kids – well let’s just say you’ll know about it!

I don’t have a worst dressed list as I only like to focus on the best!

So there you have it – The Academy Awards are over for another year – what did you think about who wore what? I'm not too interested in who won what - incase you hadn't noticed, but, really who is? Leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxox

Kyle & Jackie O gone wild!

2008-02-20T17:19:00.006+11:00

As a lot of my regular readers might know I am an avid listener of 2DayFM in the mornings, and have been known to come home each night and tell my boyfriend exactly what happened on the Kyle & Jackie O Show. I’m talking word for word what happened, who they interviewed, what games they played – at one stage I had my own radio show (yep, that’s right) where I interviewed my friends, played my own music (which funnily enough consisted mainly of Britney Spears) all coz I wanted to be the next Jackie O (still up there with one of my long time dreams!).

Kyle and Jackie O are currently in L.A. In the lead up to the Oscars each year they’re flown over to get the latest and greatest goss fresh out of Hollywood. Although this time it seems that they are the goss coming out of Hollywood. The talented duo thought it would be quite amusing to fool the paparazzi into thinking that they had a pink-wigged Britney Spears in the car with them, driving into Burger King at 2am on Monday morning. It just so happens that the hire car the guys got given is the same as the current car Britney has and Kyle resembles her new bodyguard.

In this clip the paparazzi are yelling at Britney ,‘Just give us one shot,’ we’re local paparazzi Britney’. Sitting in the driver’s seat is clearly Kyle Sandilands and in the back, looking beautifully blonde and sassy sits the Queen of Aussie radio Mrs Jackie O covering ‘Britney’ (actually the station’s producer) with a blanket. The two were followed by the papps for about 3 hours until the cops turned up for the fun as well. The L.A police made the paparazzi pull over not to mention the whole of Sunset Strip for Kyle and Jackie to go through (of course thinking that inside the car was infact Britney herself). Look out for Jackie holding her own dictaphone recording the whole fiasco!

To see the clip press here.

I really think this is entertainment at its finest, and looks like so much fun! Go Kyle and Jackie! I wonder what those papps would think if they found out? Keep this one on the D.L guys!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxox

Next. Big. Thing.

2008-02-14T17:02:00.010+11:00

Introducing Miss Ashlee Simpson.....what’s that? You’ve already met? Oh well, you may not have recognised her as she’s gone red – hair colour that is. And is about to hit our airwaves (again) at lightning speed. Her new single, ‘Outta My Head’ has already topped the charts in the U.S, and her album, Bittersweet World, will hit our shores very soon. In the meantime I’ve complied a list of things that you don’t know about Ashlee – I guarantee you learn something new!

* She carries Pez around with her everywhere (yes, they’re those lollies you had when you were 10 that come out of the character-headed dispensers and when you put them in there you eat the entire pack in the space of 60 seconds.)
* She worked with Timbaland (let’s face it she’s not the first popstar to do so) on her new album.
* Her new album is all about the beat, not as rocky as her last album, I Am Me, 'it’s got a bit of an ‘80s feel at times’, says the sassy star.
* She plans to tour soon (Sydney, Sydney, Sydney, Sydney, Sydney)
* Her boyf and bass player of pop-punk band, Fallout Boy, Pete Wentz is her best friend – aawww!
* She had a baby-crush on Macaulay Culkin (hey, who wasn’t a fan of Home Alone, but I don’t think I ever crushed on him?!)!
* Whilst travelling she likes to listen to ‘Regina Spektor, that’s my girl music that I love. I like a lot of older stuff. I love Billie Holiday and Cab Calloway is very interesting. I like a wide variety. I love The Missing Persons,’ uumm does anyone else have no clue who any of these people are?
* She is a fan of The Little Mermaid! (I love this, not just because I have one of the songs from the movie on my i-pod – oooh did I just say that out loud?)!
* She thinks fashion shows are boring!

So are we loving or loathing her new locks? I’m liking. Change is good, and there’s way too many blondes these days, there’s only room for so many of us – you know?

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xox

Love is in the air - or is it?

2008-02-13T13:38:00.004+11:00

Don’t think that this is going to be a rant about how wonderful being in a relationship is on Valentine’s Day. Coz let me tell you that that is one thing that it’s not. What I can tell you is that it's hard work - especially when you've been for someone for quite a few Valentine's Days.

I’ve always been a little ‘so-so’ about the whole St Valentine idea. Not that I don’t like being showered with gifts, kisses, hugs and whatever else is thrown my way; but I have to wonder sometimes - is it all a marketing ploy – just another holiday to add to our lists of ‘to-dos’ and extra-curricular presents?

Before I had a boyfriend; Valentine’s Day used to be a day that I kinda dreaded and kinda looked forward to at the same time. The anticipation of maybe receiving something - anything from that boy I was crushing on, (I was usually disappointed) then I was happy when my friends handed out cute cards and lollies to compensate for us single birds. I dreaded having to watch all the popular girls at school get cute ornaments hanging off their lockers and more secret admirers than you could count on one hand.

Then one day - poof - I had a boyfriend. We went out to dinner, exchanged cards, pashed at my front door (all the cutesey stuff) and it was so gorgeous and beautiful but when the next year came round we both felt this pressure to exceed what we’d given eachother/done last Valentine’s Day. Which isn’t exactly romantic – right?

You may have realised I’m not exactly the raging mascot for V-Day, but in saying that I think that a few good ol’ fashioned romantic gestures don't go astray on the day (for all you men out there). You don’t have to go overboard and spend your week’s pay or anything but it’s the little things that make all the difference - paying for her/his meal (or at least offering to). Opening and closing the car door for her (this one gives double points as not many guys do this anymore) or giving her a single flower will show her how much you care. These rules apply for all ladies even if they’re in a long term relationship (with you that is).

So, I hope Cupid is good to you all! Let me know who surprises you (or doesn’t surprise you!)

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xoxoxo

Feelings of love......

2008-02-09T19:53:00.000+11:00

You know the head-over-heels kind that you would pay any amount for, the kind that you would risk your life for? No, I’m not referring to that kind of love – get your mind out of the gutter!
I’m referring to the kind of love that oneself feels when they enter a store and find the most amazing piece of jewellery/clothing possible; and for a split second you find yourself wondering, ‘How in the world did I ever live without this piece of jewellery/clothing?’ The piece of jewellery I found today is one of these, I know I won’t be able to get through the remainder of my life without it.

A gorgeous peacock ring was staring straight back at me from the counter of a store in Harbord, I was innocently just standing there waiting for my friend to parade out in her next try-on (for which we searched far and wide for, and yes, we did eventually end up finding the perfect dress –thanks for asking). I picked up the ring and didn’t want to let it go. When I saw the price tag I was a little

The ring that I am lusting over

disappointed ($59, but only $50 on the website) but after trying it on and staring at it for a further 10 minutes I realised that it was worth every cent. Remembering that I had only come out to help my friend find the perfect outfit - for herself (and the fact that I didn’t have a cent to my name) I took it upon myself to finish drooling over this ring on the other side of the room. I knew if I stayed round for too long I’d be tempted to lay-by it (I've been known to lay-by pretty much anything I take the slightest liking to, which ends up being alot of lay-bys).
Whilst I was getting acquainted with my ring the shop assistant told me about the designer Samantha Wills, an Aussie, hailing from Sydney's North Coast, former radio DJ (for Star FM) and model who does her fair share of the social circuit in Sydney, phew this is one busy business woman. Her jewellery designs have attracted many famous faces including Nicole Richie. When Richie was out here for the MTV Awards she purchased a ring from her collection and wore it on Oprah. The world was introduced to this Australian designer.

Wills modelling pieces from her Summer 07/08 collection

Everything in this chick’s collection is TDF*! I suggest you check it out by clicking here. Just remember who gave you the heads up!
If you happen to be my boyfriend, well, it just happens to be Valentine’s Day on Thursday......*winks and batts her eyelids*
Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xox

*To Die For

Spice Girls split – AGAIN?!?

2008-02-03T12:36:00.000+11:00

No doubt you’ve heard the news about the highly anticipated Spice Girls World Tour? For those of you who haven’t been listening to the radio for the past 24 hours allow me to fill you in. According to a story first streaming from Britain’s Daily Mail newspaper, The Spice Girls have cancelled the remainder of their world tour, crossing Cape Town, Buenos Aires, Beijing and Sydney off their list.

With rumours flying round the world faster than you can say you’ll be there,
the official statement posted on the girl’s website reads this:

“Sadly the tour needs to come to an end by the end of February due to family and personal commitments for Emma, Geri, Mel B, Melanie C and Victoria. It was announced in June that, as well as the Europe and the US, the girls planned to visit Australia, China, South Africa and Argentina. Due to the phenomenal demand for tickets in the UK and the US along with the touring logistics for such a massive production it was not possible to fit everything in. As the girls return to normal family life and the kids go back to school they are reviewing all the options, who knows what the future might bring!

The girls said: “We’ve had such an amazing time over the last 3 months. It’s been incredible being back together and seeing our fans again. We want to thank everyone who came to see us. It was all so mad the first time round, so we’ve really been able to appreciate it properly this time. There have been so many highlights and good times that we know it will be hard to be apart after Toronto. Really sorry if we didn’t get to see you this time round. We all have other commitments in our lives now but who knows what will happen next.”

Some are saying that the tension between the girls was a big factor in the split and after Melanie C was seen leaving a psychiatrist’s office, two hours after entering only last week eyebrows started to raise as to how Mel C was coping with being back in the group. NW Magazine reported just last week, that Chisholm only said ‘yes’ to the reunion coz she didn’t want to be the bad guy and be the only one to say ‘no’. Her heart wasn't really in it.

Ultimately though this spilt was inevitable as the girls are just too different and have all got their own lives going on. They’re not the five pop-stars they used to be.

Although the first initial response to the return of the Spice Girls was quite phemonenal - 1 million people registering for tickets in the U.K only days after their tour was announced and 3 million in the U.S, their popularity was very short lived. People around Australia have already started turning on the feisty five, one die-hard fan; Francesca Ferrari, 18 of Sandringham, Victoria, says, “OMG, I am so angry. I knew this would happen! Those bitches!”

Another fan, Natalie, 15 of Avalon, Sydney says, “I checked their website every single day to see if the tour dates had been announced for their Australian leg of the tour. I am really disapointed.”

It seems the girls will have to do a lot to win back the hearts of the fans they have let down.

What do you think about the girls cancelling their tour? Do you think it’s fair or do you think they have a right to cancel their tour whenever they like? I’d love to know your thoughts.

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xox

Possibly the best coverline I have ever read

2008-01-31T16:14:00.000+11:00

I had heard murmurs about this one, but, not until I saw it for myself did I actually believe it.

On the front page of The Daily Telegraph today the coverline read this: ‘This is one bash that Corey didn’t organise’.

Pure gold I tell you. I know you probably don’t care too much about what this lame 16 year old is up to this week. So if you want to know exactly what happened then you can find out by clicking here.

Otherwise I’ll chat to you tomorrow.

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xox

Blatant promo

2008-01-30T12:30:00.000+11:00

Promos for my fave sites, on-the-minute updates for my beloved readers - however you want to look at it these websites will have you click-happy before you can say World Wide Web!

If you love magazines then you'll absolutely LOVE this blog. Readers of Girl Next Door meet Girl With a Satchel.
The reason I am pointing you into the direction of this blog is that I have just realised that I am on this blog pretty much every single day of the week. It's just so damn addictive!

Erica, a Sydney based (soon to be Brisbane based) writer gives us her take on what the glossies are up to each month. Including all the info you need to know about magazines around the world and more; it'll have you blowing off your usual mag purchase and spending your spare change on a bag o' lollies instead!

If you're after an entertaining and honest opinion on your fave mag then head straight to Girl With a Satchel. Us Girls have got to stick together!

Another one of my faves...
beautyheaven.com.au
These chicks know everything there is to know about beauty and much, much more! An online magazine with a difference! Beautyheaven is more of a community than an online magazine.

They want to keep you up-to-date with the latest and greatest to hit the beauty shelves, events - such as product launches and tips and tricks that will keep you busy for hours on end! Don't miss the daily Editor's Update with Ed, Tracey - a very enjoyable and informative read! Check it out now by clicking here.

What websites are you hearting right now? Any blogs you are obsessed with? I'd love to know about them!

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xox

The biggest day of my year……so far

2008-01-30T10:10:00.000+11:00

Before I begin I have to tell you that I am still getting over this massive day! Luckily the next one is (app.) 365 days away!

I’ll take you through the motions and hopefully get you as excited as I was from start to finish.

Thursday afternoon: Jumped out the office and skipped all the way to the bus stop singing along to any possible band that could be playing the following day. Grinspoon, Rage Against the Machine, Faker, Uncle were blasting out of my I-pod like I hadn’t heard them in years.
I pounced into my lounge room just as my boyfriend had started to compile the CD for our bus ride into Homebush. After dancing round the lounge room for about 2 hours I decided it was time to get my outfit together and eat something – get some good nutrients for the day ahead.

Thursday night: as I lay in bed tossing and turning for most of the night I was finding it really hard to sleep. It was a very still and humid night but all I could think about was the morning. When it finally was morning I felt a great sense of accomplishment. I made it through the night and it was time to party and boogie on down to my favourite bands. Big time.

Friday morning: Another long trip to the BDO – not because Homebush is a long way from the Northern Beaches, but because our bus didn’t seem to like us and broke down half way there (see below pic). After waiting an hour and a half for another one to turn up; we were on our way!

Faker was blasting through the main stage as we rocked up. And let me tell you it was definitely worth the 4 months, long night sleep and broken down bus ride wait. They rocked out the stage and before I could text ‘wher r u’ to my boyfriend the next band was on its way.

Most of the day was spent walking round trying to find people (which is one of the downers of going somewhere like BDO) coz when you try and find someone it’s usually when your fave band is playing! Doh!

Friday afternoon: Grinspoon were by far the BEST performance of the day (nothing short of their usual performances.) Utterly amazing. Phil was doing his thing and getting the crowd going with one hit after the next, Hard Act To Follow, Sweet As Sugar – OMG I could listen to Grinspoon all day! They were shortly followed by Hilltop Hoods and then the next act I saw was Rage Against The Machine – the last act and one of the best. By this time the stadium was full of people rocking out to the sounds of this once in a lifetime opportunity!

All in all a really fun day – it wasn’t my faveourite Big Day Out but was still up there! The only let down was when we found out that Bjork – (who is that chick anyways?) had pulled out at the very last minute. Such bad form, if you ask me. As a result of this the other acts were switched round and we didn’t really know when what band was on.

Phew!

Did I mention I’ve got Good Vibes in a couple of weeks? Festival season is officially on!

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xox

Snack time, anyone?

2008-01-28T17:34:00.000+11:00

Girl Next Door loves nothing more than a yummy snack that she (as someone who is allergic to virtually everything) can enjoy and tell everyone she knows about!

Today I was lucky enough to try the very delicious and very enjoyable range of Whole Kids Certified Organic products. I have seen these in the supermarket both at Coles (health food section) and Macro and I have to say I have always skipped straight past them because of the fact that the brand is aimed towards children. But as it happens this range is seriously yummy and definitely not just for kids - I have already eaten two packets of the Organic Sultanas and 2 packets of the Organic Popcorn in Sea Salt flavour and Manuka Honey flavour (perfect when you need a little sugar hit to get you through the afternoon!).

This stuff tastes so good and the best thing about it is it’s just so good for you at the same time! With no artificial flavours, colourings, additives or preservatives it’s no wonder my face doesn’t go puffy as it does with regular sultanas and other snacks with foreign ingredients.
The popcorn is just so moreish and all products are certified organic which helps you do your bit for the environment! Warning: You can’t stop at one packet of any of their products!
Then there’s the Organic Corn Chips which come in two flavours - original and cheese. I’ll be using the original ones tonight to use on my home-made nachos! As for the cheese flavour my work colleagues seemed to demolish theirs and gave me their thumbs up!
Overall a very light and enjoyable snacking range with cute-as packaging that will keep you satisfied til your next meal. Pick these guys up at your local supermarket in the snack aisle or if you want to check out the rest of their range head to their website by clicking here. You can also order in bulk online.

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xox

P.S Big Day Out details to come.

Be the Queen of Fashion with to-your-door unique vintage threads

2008-01-24T09:45:00.000+11:00

We all know how much I love a good bargain and a unique one at that. There’s nothing worse than purchasing a gorgeous piece of clothing or accessory and then wearing it out one night only to find that five of your friends own exactly the same thing. Sound more than familiar? Do I have the party for you!

Ever been to a make-up party? Bessemer party (or sat in on one of your mum’s)?
How about hosting your own vintage party? Introducing Vintage Queen: Mobile Vintage Fashion Service. You and your friends can enjoy a canapé and shop til you drop – in your own loungeroom! You don’t pay for Vintage Queen to come to your house. You only pay for what you buy. Talk about value for money!

This month Vintage Queen has a special offer as well! If you book a vintage party before February, every host will receive a FREE piece of vintage jewellery! It doesn’t get any better than this girls! So grab your friends, some spare cash and a dozen pink cupcakes and get in contact with Vintage Queen!
In the meantime Girl Next Door caught up with Nadine, one of the masterminds behind this new and exclusive brand.

GND: So, how did you come up with the idea for Vintage Queen?
N: Vanessa (the other mastermind behind V.Q) and I met at the beginning of 2007 at uni. We discovered we were both lovers of the vintage world. We were always cutting our lectures to go op-shopping and we both love the fashion industry, so we decided we could make something of it.

GND: How did the name Vintage Queen come about?
N: The name Vintage Queen to us stands out and acknowledges status. We wanted to be unique and the best at what we do, Vintage Queen represents that.
Vintage Queen is not only a service but can also be a learning experience for people as they become interested in vintage trends. We wanted to extend our services and style tips to those wanting to experience something a little different! It was a concept we just adopted over time which eventually became a reality.

GND: Where do you purchase the vintage finds?
N: We look at ‘finding’ as bit of an adventure, at the moment it’s still locally based but we're hoping to start venturing out to other states and definitely overseas.

GND: What is your vision for the next 12 months for Vintage Queen?
N: To keep up-to-date with on-season collections and trends, to start discovering vintage treasures in other states and last but not least to hold vintage parties regularly.

GND: How do I host my own party?
N: Bookings can be made through our myspace or our email address
Myspace: www.myspace.com/vintagequeen_
Email: vintagequeen1@yahoo.com.au

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xox

Pretty, happy, fun things…

2008-01-23T11:01:00.000+11:00

We interrupt this blog for an important announcement...
May Heath Ledger rest in peace. Some people don’t think they belong in this world, it doesn’t matter how much they are loved or adored something inside them tells them they’re not mean’t to be here. It just goes to show that money does not buy happiness. Although the cause of Ledger’s death is not known as of yet there is a lot of speculation. I am not going to go into that today. If you want to see the full story about Ledger then check out CNN for breaking news updates.

In other news the sun is finally shining in Sydney and the birds are chirping tunes that Mika is only capable of belting out!
It’s a new day and a day where anything can happen. You could get a new job, your best friend could get engaged, your boss could be turning 30 tomorrow (yes, that’s my boss!). There are so many beautiful things in this world but sometimes we just need to be reminded of them. You know what a lot of mine are, you’ve forgotten? O OK, I’ll refresh your memory - my family, my boyfriend, my friends, my pink teddy, my passion for life and my work, fluffy animals, steaming hot bubble baths, strawberries and cream, mangos, Sara Lee French Vanilla ice cream, warm sunny days, pink sunsets, sunrises over the ocean, compliments, BIG DAY OUT – ooh and my Disney Couture bracelet - I could go on forever!
But enough about me - What do you love about your life? What is beautiful to you? I’d love to hear all your stories. They’ll brighten up my day x 10,00000!!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xox

One of the reasons I live for January’s in Oz...

2008-01-20T13:30:00.000+11:00

...used to be the weather - but since that has gone out the window, I’ve had to resort to the next best thing...FESTIVALS!
But, Big Day Out is the one that I plan my entire year around.
As the festival I live for is only sleeps away (5 to be exact) I have decided to take you through a couple of Big Day’s that I have experienced already.

The first year I went to Big Day Out(January 2005) I was a little sceptical. Having only been to one festival before (Homebake, December 2004) I was even a little scared. My friends had told me that BDO was so much bigger (and better) than Homebake as there was so much more room, a hell of a lot more people and a much broader array of bands/DJ’s. The first (of many BDO’s to come) was one of the best days of my life! Bands, DJ’s, friends, fun, fun, fun!
Big Day Out # 2: January 2006. This was the first time I’d gone to BDO with my boyfriend and it was his first time at BDO. I popped his bubble and escorted him through the whole day and guess what? He loved it so much he went back year (2007: see next photo) after year (2008: Photo TBC) with me.

If you hadn’t realised already; I am addicted! Last year, I added Good Vibes to the mix and this year I'll be adding one more to my list; V Festival. So, what is it that I love so much about festivals? Truthfully?
It’s an experience.

The bands and DJ’s, they’re definitely part of the reason I love it but they’re not everything. It’s the amount of excitement that builds months, weeks and days before the actual day. When our friends hire out an entire bus to get us from our sheltered Northern Beaches suburbs to the other side of Sydney, the pumping music, the adrenalin rushing through us and then, finally we're there. The sun is shining and the bands are playing off in the distance. Awaiting our arrival.

Wow, the excitement is killing me now!

Damn, I’ve still gotta get through 5 sleeps....

Watch this space for fresh and exciting photos from Big Day Out 2008.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xox

Celebrity Baby Boom…….the new black?

2008-01-16T14:12:00.000+11:00

The latest must-have accessory to hit the streets of Hollywood sounds a little something like this, ‘Goo-goo ga-ga, Mommy.’

Don’t worry I haven’t been admitted into rehab but have just realised how ‘cool’ it is right now to be pregnant and famous in Hollywood. I hate admitting this but I’m one of those people who watches my fave celebrities every move (I’m talking Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie, Jessica Alba), When I see a photo of them in a magazine and they’ve been to, let’s just say a music festival dressed in some hotted up attire I find myself picking out my outfit for Big Day Out and trying to match up my entire ensemble to one of the before mentioned celebs.
Nicole Richie has a Disney Couture Alice in Wonderland wrap around bracelet, so I wanted a Disney Couture Alice in Wonderland wrap around bracelet. Jessica Simpson’s clip-in Hairdo hair extensions? Yep, I’ve had two of them. And now it seems as if the whole of Hollywood have taken a leaf out of my book and copied eachother. First it was Nicole’s announcement of her pregnancy, then there was Christina’s not-so-public announcement of her pregnancy. Next up to the pedistool was Jessica Alba, Nicole Kidman and now Britney Spear’s younger sister Jamie-Lynn has joined the crowd. I think we have officially found the generation that would do anything because someone else did it first (i.e if a celebrity told you to jump off the Harbour Bridge, you probably would). Have celebrities just made it cool for us to be pregnant at 20-something? Not that it's a bad thing in any shape or form. If I do have children myself I would prefer it to be when I'm in my 20's. Do you think that celebrities try and set examples for their younger fans? Do you ever do something just because a celeb has done it first? Do celebrities really shape how we think and feel about a situation this big? Leave me a commment and let me know your thoughts!

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xox

P.S Picture (right) of Jessica Alba is hardly a bump but first emerging pictures (she's due in April).

P.P.S My Congrats go out to Nicole Richie and Joel Madden for the birth of their baby girl, named Harlow Winter and Christina Aguilera and her hubby Jordan Bratman for the birth of their baby son, named Max Liron Bratman - Liron is Hebrew for 'my song' (typical) or 'my joy' (don't even try and act suprised!). Once again the celebs have made us gag in the naming of their children. I guess we should just be glad there's no Banana's in there? Way too many a's and n's in that one ; )

How did we ever live without the WWW?

2008-01-11T09:28:00.000+11:00

Seriously.
Let’s just all stop what we're doing and think for a minute how much The World Wide Web has changed society.
We have access to paying bills, online shopping, our fave magazines, news, weather, booking flights, booking accommodation, job searching, writing to loved ones who we never have time to see (or live O.S), share photos and might I add we can utilise these things ANYWHERE in the entire world. I mean, do we even need to leave our desks anymore? We have everything at our fingertips, why the heck would we have to?
Most of my day is spent surfing the internet (for work related reasons of course) with the occasional Poke or Superpoke to one or five of my friends.

This brings me to my first point - trends and how fast they are formed on the internet. They are formed so quickly that we can barely keep up with them. One minute it’s the invasion of-our-lives Myspace - where everyone wanted to show everyone else how creative they could make their ‘page’. Bulletins were being posted every 5 minutes with anything from quizzes, new photos to RIP messages from people who have lost loved ones. The sharing of our personal lives phenomenon had begun and shortly after everyone had got into the groove of their Myspace page; along came Facebook, which spread quicker than you can say ‘What’s your Myspace address?’

Friends from primary, high school, even that guy you pashed and you only realised it was him when he ticked how he knew you (‘We hooked up and it was the best I’ve ever had’) hhmmmmm.

Facebook is now the official site for young singles or non-singles who want to keep in contact with their current group of friends or catch up with old ones. There’s a group for just about everything you can possibly imagine, my current faves are ‘I still love Britney Spears’ and ‘addicted to magazines’ not only do these groups tell everyone what you do and don’t believe in but they give you the freedom to ‘say’ whatever you want, so even if your boyfriend doesn’t want to talk about Britney’s latest hospitalisation you still have someone to ‘talk’ about it with! I’d even go as far as saying that Facebook almost makes you feel like a celebrity with all the posting of your photos and happenings in your life! Pure Gold!

But, as much as I do think these sites are borderline invasion-of-privacy they are actually quite fun (and if you’ve got a spare 5 minutes at work you don’t have to stare into space at a blank screen). As long as we stay ‘friendly’ and tasteful and don’t start delving into eachother’s lives too much – keep the private stuff for the home videos people!

Enjoy your weekend,

Girl Next Door xx

What I learn’t in 2007

2008-01-08T16:34:00.000+11:00

It may have passed us by in the blink of an eye (no rhyme intended) but 2007 was definitely a year I learn’t a hell of alot. I did complete 3 feature writing courses and learn’t about my writing style and how clear, concise copy should be written. How to grab my reader’s attention in the first sentence, which, hopefully I grasped onto with flying colours and you’re currently still reading this post.

Lesson number one: Being happy is the most important thing in life. If you’re not happy then where does that leave you? Unhappy, which then leads to depressed, unmotivated and uninspired. These things are a major part of my life and affect how I act as a person, how I think, how I interact with people and the situations I find myself in. When I decided I needed a change and left my dream magazine job I made a hop, skip and a jump into the radio corner of the media arena, once there though, I found out what unhappy was. Coming home most days of the week, upset and angry, it took me 3 months to realise the pain I was feeling was actually not normal. It had to end just as soon as it had begun. So I gave my week’s notice and was outta there before you could say ‘Next!’. Then, out of the blue I landed a job back in the magazine arena - coincidence? I think not!

Lesson number two: It’s OK to step out of your comfort zone. Waking up, going to work, having lunch, coming home, having dinner, going to sleep and then it happens all over again. The same routine everyday……. But who’s saying it has to be the same routine everyday? There’s no bible with my life planned out, each chapter mapping out every, single day of my life. I can take charge of any situation and do whatever I want! If I want to live overseas I will! If I want to eat that chocolate bar I will! If I want those Bettina Liano jeans then I’ll damn-well have them!

Lesson number three: It’s OK to trust someone even if you don’t understand them. Trying to decipher every problem I have (and everyone else’s) gets me wondering (as you know). I worry about everyone I know and love, especially my family and if they’re upset I am upset x 10,000. I’m sure this is the same for everyone, I try to understand situations even if they don’t involve me. But, sometimes it’s best just to let the people involved trust their instincts and work it out for themselves.

So, I guess all these lessons make me a little wiser for 2008?

2008 will be a year of many more lessons learn't I can feel it in my bones! Do you think everyone learns new things each year?
What do you think Britney learn’t?
Definitely not to look after her kids or herself, that’s for sure. But I have faith and feel that she will pull herself together this year, learning from her mistakes. What about The Spice Girls? They learn’t that friendship really does never end and no matter what happened in the past you can always amend any broken bonds with a zig-a-zig-ahh!

Here's to a year of lessons learn't and shared!
Girl Next Door x

P.S Drop me a line and let me know what lessons you learn't in 2007? Maybe you taught someone you know a lesson they'll never forget? I'd love to hear from you!

Just another day in paradise....

2008-01-01T20:35:00.000+11:00

High-rise buildings overlooking half-mile beaches with more palm trees than 'NO VACANCY' signs, sand as white as coconut cream and nothing to think about but what I’m going to have for dinner. Sounds like a recipe for an amazing week away, but why is it that even the simplest of holidays are put to the test?

I am currently sitting on the balcony of the apartment that my boyfriend and I have worked our entire year to get to. Down below me is a very enticing pool and spa that I have used all of once in the week I’ve been here. It seems that as soon as I jetted away from my sunny, calm, beachside town I call home in Sydney that’s exactly where I left the sun, the calm beaches – and the perfect temp.
Arriving at The Gold Coast Airport I was greeted with a fresh spray of rain, it passed before I could get upset but as soon as I was on my transferring bus the rain was back in full-force (did I mention there were gale forced winds? No?), but alas my dreams of sunburn’t skin and long days spent washing away the sand from my feet were shattered, “Seems you’ve all flown right into a cyclone,” said the bus driver. And let me tell you he was not wrong.

I know it’s really bad to let weather affect my moods for my holiday - the one that I’d worked so hard to get to but it’s just such a downer. Especially when I know back at my beachside town there are beautiful 35^C days calling my name.
So, as I sit here on my balcony wondering what the rest of my week away is going to bring me (apart from soggy clothes and frizzy hair) and stare out into the cloudy sky that is slowly turning to a dark shade of grey I wonder (and start to realise) what exactly are the key ingredients for the perfect holiday? Is it in fact all to do with the weather? Do our moods effect how we spend our time and well if the weather’s crap, everything’s crap and let’s just hate the world coz it’s all crap? Or do the perfect ingredients start with whom you’re spending your time with? Does it really matter what you’re doing, where you are and what drink you’re holding in your hand? Well duh - Of course not!

It’s all about who you’re with!

Who makes you smile and wipes the tears from your eyes? I bet whoever just sprung to your mind has nothing to do with the weather…...

So if you’ll excuse me; it’s time for me to go back inside and make the most of who’s in there.

Peace Out,

Girl Next Door xx

P.S Happy New Year Bloggettes. Don’t worry Thoughts will be bigger and better than ever in 2008 so stay tuned!

What’s behind the door?

2007-12-18T17:02:00.000+11:00

‘ADULT MATERIAL BEING WORKED ON. DO NOT ENTER IF NUDITY OFFENDS YOU’.
What would you do if you saw this sign plastered to a door?
Would you enter? Would you run away? Would you do what I did and breeze on past it like you never even saw it?

I’m not sure if it’s a good idea to tell you exactly where I saw this sign; but I bet you can guess where (as I’m here 9-5.30pm most days of the week)! How intriguing!
How exciting! Well maybe not exciting as in I-just-received-that -Disney-Couture -bracelet--I’ve-been-crushing-on-for-Christmas exciting, but exciting as in maybe-a-few-boys-I-know-would-melt-away-if-I-told-them-what-I-knew-about-what-was-behind-that-door.

This is one of those things that I know you are just squirming in your seat about, like if I don’t tell you, you might stop reading my blog or you might convert to reading (cue horror music) Pink Is The New Blog! But I know deep down you know it’s totally not the new blog. But, come on, don’t change the subject, we’re trying to decipher what was behind that door.

Now, as I didn’t actually open the door I’m not sure exactly what was in that room but I can tell you this; I work in a company where it’s possible to be involved in nude photoshoots. Yes, you read that correctly, NUDE photoshoots. These photoshoots usually involve good looking women (some not so good looking). You also know I work in the wonderful world of magazines within the biggest publishing house of Australia. Basically you name the mag, I can totally get you a staff discounted subscription! So I guess this takes us to the ‘men’s lifestyle’ mag arena (just go with me here). We’ve got Zoo, Ralph, FHM, Men’s Style – yep, pretty cool huh? (if you happen to be a boy)
So really, ‘that sign’ may have had anything to do with any of the above magazines. But then again - maybe it didn’t?

Til next time,

Girl Next Door xx

P.S Door in picture is in no way associated with this story.

Rule # 5987 – how to really piss me off

2007-12-17T13:48:00.001+11:00

I have a few pet peeves. I bet you do as well. I’ve just come from a workout at the gym and while I walked in there on my mobile phone the guy who worked there began to shove a flyer into my face yelling ‘get your friends a present they’ll never forget’. I looked the other way whilst still talking on my phone so as to make the guy realise that I was so not interested. Do you know what he did? He continued to shove the flyer into my face. I could not believe it. After getting over this annoying start to my workout I went about my 40 minute routine, hit the showers then made my way back through to the reception area where yet again another lady threw her arm out with a dreaded flyer, I looked at her and said ‘no, thanks’, and kept walking. After she replied with some smartass remark I was ropeable! I mean if I want a flyer I will take a flyer. If I want to get someone in my family a present from the gym exactly one week before Christmas I will. But I don’t need it shoved in my face at any given opportunity.

Not to mention walking around the city only to be bombarded on every second street corner with a CD or a brochure of some sort, then half way down the block there are millions upon millions of these brochures flying round the street, littering our city.
I hate to have a bitch right before Christmas but does anyone else agree with me?

Girl Next Door xox

When following your dreams means leaving everything you love behind….

2007-12-12T14:55:00.000+11:00

We all know I love to do a bit of thinking. My 45-75 minute bus ride every morning and afternoon forces me to do this. The thought of change strikes my mind from time to time. In the past I have been known to leave the house absolutely ready for another day and by the time I arrive at work have actually talked myself out of working at that particular place; resigning 40 minutes into my day.
It’s not that the thought hadn’t crossed my mind every other day; it’s just that for some reason that particular bus ride made me realise that ‘today was the day’. Phrases and clichés were floating through my mind like bees on speed; ‘life’s too short to be unhappy’, ‘you only live once’….blah, blah, blah.

I never thought that someone else in the world would actually be having the same thoughts that I did. I opened up The Daily Tele this morning and on page 41 (the front page of the Sydney Confidential) I am told that MTV presenter Ms Lyndsey Rodrigues has made the big, fat move to the Big Apple (yes that’s New York) and totally taken her career to the next level. She’s hosting Total Request Live where she has already interviewed Will Smith (earlier today), Simple Plan and Wyclef Jean (not too sure of who he is) do you know how many viewers see that show every day, Oh only 93 million! Uummm can anyone say ‘Cool’! I remember when this chick first began on MTV, I was working at Girlfriend, and our entertainment editor Bec was interviewing her in the office. She was a total stunner and just had that ‘famous look’ about her, but no one had any idea who she was. Now she’s halfway around the world having just replaced Vanessa Minnillo (currently dating Nick Lachey). I mean WOW that is very cool indeed.

But as cool as it all seems - the glitz, the glamour, the early starts and the late nights….is it all worth it? Is a move for the sake of your career at all worth leaving everything you know and love behind? That’s the question that a lot of you will face in your life. It all sounds pretty straight forward and simple, but that one question is the hardest that you will ever have to answer.

Just so you know Lyndsey’s boyfriend is joining her in the U.S early next year. But what about her friends, her besties will be lost without her? Her family will miss her so much.

Can you see what I'm getting at with what my 'thoughts' were?

So you’ve got some homework for me tonight; what would you do? What would help you in determining the decision of a lifetime?

Girl Next Door xox

I wanna be a Victoria's Secret model!

2007-12-11T10:27:00.000+11:00

Did everyone watch The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show last night on Channel 10 (Hosted by the gorgeous German-born Heidi Klum)?
I don’t know why I put myself through this torture each year but I just love watching those perfect models strut their stuff down the runway. The way they make the average girl feel is quite something, especially that Aussie-born and newly reformed Miranda Kerr - what a stunner (see pic below)!

As well as making me feel super great about myself these girls had me wanting to strut my stuff down the hallway and give a wink or blow a kiss to those who were watching (my boyfriend seemed to be the only one applauding my efforts). But seriously the way those fantastically fit girls walk down the runway has me so envious! So sexy and amazing, with bodies to die for and at the same time trying to carry a 20 kilo pair of wings - Wowzers!

Towards the end of the show; The Spice Girls graced the stage and wowed the audience with their first official come-back performance. Singing and dancing up a storm to ‘Stop’ (just quietly it sounded a hell of a lot like the recorded version).
As much as I love The Spice Girls I wouldn’t be surprised if they mimed that one.
But, in saying that it was an amazing performance and from the looks of things the Girls were very happy with themselves as well.
The glitz and glamour of the show was enough to keep me amused for the whole 60 minutes (and I think the lingerie was enough for my boy – Bless him!)

What did you think of the show? Do you think Victoria’s Secrets have some impressive shows?

Girl next Door xox

So this is Christmas….

2007-12-09T13:18:00.000+11:00

…and it’s so close I can hear Santa’s sleigh bells ringing!

When I was younger I awoke late one Christmas Eve and could have sworn it was to the sound of bells. The sound was coming form my rooftop. Naturally I knew that Mr Claus was dropping off the items that my little brother, sister and I had waited all year to see. But the one thing that is so fresh in my mind I felt like I did it this morning is the ritual my family and I used to go through to put up the tree. The carols music we played whilst dad climbed up the step ladder into the roof to retrieve all the decorations. The fight me, my brother and sister had in who was going to put the angel on top of the tree – this went on for so long Dad had to lay down the law and get us to take turns each year.

We’d hang all the trinkets and tinsel on the tree and watch as it glistened back at us. The smell of the pine needles are what told me it was Christmas time. Smelling that exact smell today as dad dragged in the gorgeous tree took me back in time to the place where I got so excited each year. All the fond memories came rushing back to me. But this year it was different. My brother was at work and my sister was out shopping with friends so was no where to be seen. There was no music, no decoration snatching and definitively no argument on who was putting the angel on her home for the next 4 weeks. The only sound I could hear was mum instructing dad and I on which way the tree was slanting and how to get it in it’s upright position. It’s kinda sad that we’ve all grown up and don’t do those little things that mean’t so much to each of us together anymore. That one simple task of setting up ‘the tree’ each year was such a huge event and now has diminished into something that we’ll get around to doing when we have time……

I think these days my family and I appreciate Christmas for what it’s really for; catching up and spending time with the ones you love, your family.

And maybe if we be good Santa will drop by as usual on Chrissy Eve!

Til Next Time,

Girl Next Door xox

‘Like WOW!’

2007-12-06T09:51:00.000+11:00

That’s what I said when I opened up my Outlook this morning when I came into work. It was not the usual WOW that I say when I get an email from Whowhatweardaily.com confirming my sightings of the hottest pair of shoes I have EVER seen only to look down at the price and see that they are close to a 5 digit number. That’s right WOW. No, no today I opened my inbox and saw ‘Introducing Who What Wear TV’. WOW!!!!!!!!!!!

That’s right, all you chicks out there who are currently looking at their screens blankly/excitedly thinking ‘As if, this chick is nutso’, you can damn straight think again. Coz this is possibly the greatest thing since Macro Wholefoods Markets opened at Mona Vale!

The 2 amazing women who founded Whowhatweardaily.com Katherine Power and Hilary Kerr will be hosting this tantalising show and each episode will show us how to get the look of a certain trend, the girls will explain exactly what this trend is so we can copy it any time we like! But wait there’s more.... the whole episode takes place in none other than the Who What Wear Daily fashion closet! OH. MI. GOD!! So if you got a kick out of getting the clothes delivered to your inbox, then you are about to be taken to a whole new shopping level!

Girl Next Door xx

For my beauty writing fans out there......

2007-12-03T15:33:00.000+11:00

...here is another of my homework tasks from my course. And it's all yours to di-sect. Hope you enjoy!

Blemish free skin is just three steps away (but don’t think you won’t have to put in a bit of work to get there)

We could stand here and tell you to count to three and you’d have beautiful skin. But that would be too easy

You always seem to know when your due; not coz of your lack of concentration, or your ability to tolerate anyone (including your boss), or the fact that every time you get up and walk around you feel like you’ve been stabbed in the stomach, repeatedly. This one involves interrupting your perfect looking skin and planting a blemish right smack bang in the middle of your nose. Ooh and you forgot to mention that your boyfriend’s Christmas party is tomorrow night.

You’ve heard it all before - right? ‘Miracle ways to get rid of blemishes when you have your period’, ‘Pimple gone –overnight guaranteed’. We’re not going to promise you anything too unbelievable, but we will tell you that these products can be preventative to your monthly friend (the red dot kind) and if used correctly and regularly could actually decrease your luck in getting any kind of blemish at all. Pretty cool – huh?
The thing to remember with your skincare routine is you’ve got to keep at it. If you come home from a big night out and you can’t be bothered to remove your party make-up then don’t come crying to us. You’ll wake up a couple of days later with a blemish the size of The Eiffel Tower and we guarantee you’ll wonder why. Well we’re glad you asked, the answer to your question is simple; you let your guard down. For that split millisecond that you thought it would be fine to go to bed with a face reeking of 6-hours worth of dancing/drinking and the make up you applied 7 hours ago, well let’s just say it wasn’t ‘fine’. While you were sleeping your skin was trying to repair itself and in that process was shot down by an array of black liquid eyeliner, silver eyeshadow and remnants of the sweated amount of foundation (the rest melted into your skin) with a dash of fake tan in it. A big no-no.
So you see when that time of the month comes round and you ‘forgot’ to take your make up off 3 even 4 times you are automatically putting yourself at a 30-40% chance of getting a blemish when you least expect it. You could do this for the next 10 years of your life or you could repeat after us:
Rule One: At the beginning and end of EVERY, SINGLE day (this includes nights out!) wash your hands and remove your make-up, Try JASON Natural Products Satin Soap for Hands and Face, ($6.75) we like the summer-esque Mango flavour. Your skin will be beautifully cleansed and able to breathe as it repairs itself throughout your slumber.
Rule Two: Remove unwanted excess dirt and make-up with AcneRecovery Facewash, this soothing cleanser is specifically designed to target those nasty blemishes that creep up on us every month.
Rule Three: Put the moisture back into your beautifully cleansed skin with AcneRecovery Repair Lotion during the day and at nighttime try AcneRecovery Treatment Lotion, this one works in conjunction with your skin’s overnight repair system to make your skin smooth soft and the way you like it – not a blemish in sight! (The three-piece set is $99 and refills range from $21-$46)
Rule Four: Stare at your gorgeous, blemish-free face, breathe in, breathe out and give yourself a pat on the back! Well done!

Girl Next Door xx

Facebook – a revolution or an invasion of privacy?

2007-12-03T15:27:00.000+11:00

This very thought has had me thinking lately. After deactivating my Facebook account for a couple of days I realised how much of an invasion it really is. I mean people adding you claiming to be from all walks of your personal life ‘You went to school with this person, ‘You hooked up with that person, ‘You met this one randomly’, ‘You worked with another one’. OK, so the majority of the people you know and are friends with are pretty legit, but what about the other 40 people that try and add you? Sure you went to school with them or you know them through a friend, but what the hell does that have to do with the price of fish? Have they spoken to you in the last 18 months? Do they know anything about your current life (without having looked you up on Facebook or Myspace?)? Would you call these people up to have a chat about what’s been happening in your life since primary school? Chances are you answered no to all the above, so what are we doing letting all these randoms back into our cyber-life? Beats me.
Sure it’s fun sharing photos and memories with those who you really want to, but me thinks you would probably have been in contact with these people from Day Dot.

What do you think about these networking type sites? Do you think they are an invasion of your privacy or somewhere good to catch up with long lost friends?

Girl Next Door xx

Sydney-siders see Posh step out to support her husband….or maybe not?

2007-11-27T16:21:00.000+11:00

Beckham mayhem is sweeping through the streets of Sydney at the moment. The L.A Galaxy star and his team have flown into Sydney for a ‘friendly’ game between Sydney FC at Telstra Stadium tonight. Everywhere I look there is people trying to bend it like the famous soccer star, as well as a lady who looks very much like his famous popstar of a wife, Victoria Beckham (A.K.A Posh Spice).
Camilla Shadbolt - does this name ring a bell? Well, it shouldn't, this unknown woman not only looks uncannily like Victoria Beckham but is actually making a living out of it, I mean her, whatever.... Being mistaken for Posh at a young age Camilla decided to use this ‘gift’ to her advantage. "When I was about 14, people started saying I looked quite similar to her," she explains. “Then when I was about 17 I thought to myself, 'I could actually make a job out of this'." And as they say Camilla, the rest is history.

Camilla has even partaken in a reality TV show where her and her husband, a David Beckham impersonator (no really, I’m not having you on), rocked round California trying to score celebrity freebies. They experienced everything from the receiving of the freebies to the free photos, paparazzi that is. “The paparazzi were quite scary — chasing us around, hiding outside our hotel." I’m not sure if these two are totally deluded or just freakin’ crazy but hey, it looks like they’re having the time of their lives (I saw a snippet of them on the news last night being mobbed by Sydney-siders).
Look out for Camilla tonight at The Game between L.A Galaxy and Sydney FC, kick off is at 8.30pm AEST, channel TEN, not doubt you’ll mistake her for Posh! But don't be fooled!
Just for the record, I have my doubts that Posh is even in the country as she’d be a very busy Spice Girl right about now preparing for her first comeback concert for The Spice Girls, set for December 2nd (this Sunday).

Girl Next Door x

I don't want alot for Christmas....

2007-11-23T14:00:00.000+11:00

…..all I want is this TDF Disney Couture Alice in Wonderland wrap bracelet from
miijo.com as seen on Nicole Richie and Li-Lo. It’s not that exxy and would make me as happy as Alice was when she had her first afternoon tea with the Mad Hatter!

Miijo is one of those gorgeous sites where you can find virtually any accessorie you’ve ever seen on any of your fave celebs – pretty cool, huh?

This site might be a little exxier than what your usual budget stretches to (after all you have just found what your fave celeb is currently sporting)! But don’t worry you can definitely add it to your Christmas wish list or happen to slip the link into your boyfriend’s inbox (as I may happen to do sometime today).

Til next time,

Girl next Door x

Just a quickie...

2007-11-22T15:12:00.000+11:00

Do you notice anything different about Thoughts?
No? Didn't think so.

Girl Next Door xx

Spice Girls Tour update…

2007-11-22T10:10:00.000+11:00

I know, I know every time I bring up The Spice Girls I tease you by telling you that I’ll let you know when I know about when their tickets go on sale, dates of Australian tour, etc and every time I disappoint. But it’s not my fault! The girls have had an unbelievable response for tickets and have had to re-schedule the whole tour. So now I’m thinking their original date for the Sydney show has been pushed back….further into the year. At the moment my estimate for The Spice Girls return to Oz will be about mid-March 2008.
In the meantime I can let you in on some behind-the-scenes goss but you probably wouldn’t be interested in that boring stuff, would you? No? OK here goes:

Fact # 1: The Return of The Spice Girls Tour 2007/2008 officially commences on the 2nd of December 2007 in Vancouver (that’s next Sunday)!
Fact # 2: The Spice Girls performed last week at The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. It was the first time they’d performed together since 1998! Melanie C nearly fell over in shock and was fighting back the tears coz the crowd was cheering so loudly when they got on stage.
Fact # 3: Roberto Cavalli has designed all the costumes for the girl’s comeback tour. Word has it they look AMAZING!
Fact # 4: As well as all the usual Spice Girls merchandise being sold at the concerts there will also be ‘baby bits’ to buy. No doubt Bluebell (Geri’s baby girl) and Beau (Emma’s baby boy) will be parading around in the attire very soon.

That’s all for now folks but do stick around coz I promise you as soon as I hear anything about the tour in Oz I will be posting!

Til next time,

Girl Next Door xx

My love of writing

2007-11-21T15:54:00.000+11:00

We all know how much I LOVE writing and how much I love learning new ways to improve my writing! The other night I went in search of a course that showed me just that. I searched far and wide and found a hell of a lot of courses - journalism courses, communications courses which I would LOVE to do but they’re all either full time (a no-go coz of work) or part time but on during the day (So not fair)! SO I typed ‘online writing courses’ into Google and up popped an informative site called mediabistro.com. It turns out these guys recruit and do a range of courses ONLINE(they're based in New York)! I had a look through and there it was staring staright back at me like a freshly opened perfume bottle….beauty writing and editing. I had found my calling.

Naturally I applied and as they say the rest is history. I’m half way through my first week and am loving it! It’s pretty amazing being in a ‘classroom’ with girls all over the world who are as passionate about writing as you are.

Anyway the point of my story is that I have completed my first homework task for the course and I wanted to share it with you and see what you thought of it. The idea was to come up with a story based on blue make-up for a July issue of a women's magazine, i.e Glamour or Allure. You know what to do. All opinions welcome!

Return of the Ice Queen

Bring out your inner Snow Queen with this season’s hottest trend. Ice eyes….

We know what you’re thinking, but no, it’s not hard to pull off this look. You’ve just got to know what to use and where to use it. First, say buh-bye to sweet pastels and he-llo to striking blues, shades as blue as the Antarctic Ocean.
Basecoat your eyelids with a light layer of shadow, try Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Glimpse in Antique Pearl ($13), this will keep the finished colour vibrant and fresh. To open up your eyes and bring out the Goddess in you, sweep with a light dusting of pale blue shadow try Laura Mercier Eye Colour Quad in Blue Sky ($38). Repeat with the cobalt blue shimmer, you can do as many splashing’s as you like (just don’t go too overboard). To finish, draw a light line along your lashes with a silver/shimmery eyeliner, we like Stila Convertible Eye Colour in Onyx ($20). Voila! Instant come-hither looks!

Girl Next Door x

Today’s adventure courtesy of XBOX 360

2007-11-19T17:04:00.000+11:00

Monday morning rituals can be excruciatingly painful: get up, catch the bus to work, have my breakfast (yoghurt, muesli and fruit) and shimmy on down to a brunch with the gang from XBOX 360. Yep, it’s a hard life here in the world of magazines but someone’s gotta do it!

XBOX showcased an array of new games set for delivery into your local Myer, DJ’s or any good toy store and just in time to sit somewhere in between your new summer wardrobe and your new ipod Nano on your Christmas wish list.

What were these impressive games you ask? One in particular which I think you will be very interested in is the Scene it? Lights Camera Action, very appropriate if you are a fan of your movies and you know your Big Fat Greek Weddings from your Mean Girls. This game comes with four wireless sale-of-the-century type controllers (Big Button Controllers) and can take one up to four players – what a great party-starter!With more than 1800 trivia-style questions about your favourite movies you’ll never get bored with this game! And every time you turn your console back on the game ‘shuffles’ itself so as not to give you the same questions that you’ve received previously!
This one is rated PG and retails at $119.95, it hits Oz on the 27th of November.

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock is the game to have when the band you have planned to play at your party calls in sick. Or if you've ever dream’t of becoming a rockstar this is your time to shine. Strum along to The Killers, The Rolling Stones, Guns ‘N’ Roses, Pearl Jam, Muse and many more of your favourite rockbands. All you’ve gotta do is press the buttons in time to the music and voila, you’re on your way to becoming the next Guitar Hero!
This one retails for $169.95 and is available late November.

But don’t take my word for it, get your groove on and get into these fab-tabulous games – don’t have an XBOX? Then go steal one of your friend’s for the week. You’ll never look back!

Girl Next Door xx

Carefree Schmearfree

2007-11-15T15:07:00.000+11:00

WARNING: Men who read past this point have been warned. You may be intrigued to keep reading. Not my fault so don't freak out when you get to the third sentence.

‘30 bands, 2 days, 1 pair of underwear’. We’ve all seen the ad on TV. While we’re eating our dinners and watching our fave US TV shows we, as women are invited to sample out the Carefree pads. These hygienically clean pads that we can change without having to change our underwear for 3 days (or so they say). Does anyone else find this disturbing? What in the world would make me decide to purchase the Carefree pads or tampons to wear to a two-day festival just because they could last me through one pair of undies for the entire two days? Why would I want to wear one pair of undies over two days anyway? They are the smallest item of clothing to pack and rolled up take up about 4cm x 4cm of space in my suitcase (and in that space I could fit 3 pairs). Not much when I’m worried about keeping myself clean over two whole days, is it?

For centuries women have been getting their periods. I’m not sure how women handled theirs 60, 70, even 40 years ago but I do know one thing for sure; today’s generation find it of the utter-most importance to be clean and tidy (ahem) at all times. Cue the Brazilian’s that 8 out of 10 women are receiving every 4-6 weeks. The endless array of tampons and pads we have available to us and the prize awarded to the company who can make tampons and pads look the prettiest. My current fave are the gorgeous and innovative Moxie tins. After using the tampons/panty liners you are left with a cute tin to put all your favourite knick-knacks in. But, what, you ask does this have to do with plain and simple cleanliness and hygiene?

With the growing trend of cleanliness, hygiene and feeling sexy getting stronger everyday for women around the world, the Brazilian will soon be something that the majority of the population subside to (if it hasn’t already). Whether you have a boyfriend or not, a Brazilian wax gives something back to a woman (as well as her boyfriend). She feels sexier than ever before and can wear skimpy underwear and bikinis at the drop of a hat, without having to worry about a ‘sneaky-peaky’ poking through. As new a development as it may seem to our generation, Brazilian waxing first came about in the late 80’s; it was introduced in New York by a group of Brazilian sisters. These sisters obviously felt the urge to be completely clean and tidy each and every day. I think this would have involved the daily changing of their underwear, don’t you agree?

Whether you get Brazilian’s or not the fact is all woman love attention to detail. I’m talking about detail to our bodies and detail to our tampon packaging. With the amazing colours and designs we can get these days I could honestly spend about an hour in the tampon aisle (as I’m usually shopping with my boyfriend, loitering in the tampon aisle is usually kept to a bare minimum). It’s quite distracting walking down that aisle, every company is screaming for our attention to keep clean, tidy and organised. Something that Carefree wishes us not to be.

I for one would not be caught dead in one pair of undies over two whole days at a music festival ESPECIALLY if I had my period. Coz that’s just downright gross.

Til next time,

Girl Next Door xx

Gluten free, dairy free and all organic Japanese restaurant!

2007-11-15T09:00:00.000+11:00

Well didn't I think all my Christmases had come at once when my friend told me about this place?! Wafu located at 460 Cleveland St in Surry Hills is a sushi roll away from heaven! This authentic Japanese cuisine uses organic poultry and meat, is all gluten, wheat AND dairy free and uses unrefined sugars! No more yucky Teriyaki sauces with brown sugar and cheap soy sauce! I will be making several appearances at this place in the coming weeks!

Girl Next Door x

Wheat intolerances are the new black!

2007-11-13T15:28:00.000+11:00

‘I swear everytime I have bread I feel so gross after it and so bloated! I think I’m going to stop having it purely coz it makes me feel so bad.’
This is something that I have heard a lot lately. I just walked past one of the offices in my building and one of the Cleo girls was screaming it down the hall way. Friends of mine are feeling crap because they’ve had a sandwich for lunch. But why do you suppose this is?

I am one person who has completely cut white and brown breads (plain flour and wholemeal flour) out of my diet. In other words I am allergic to wheat. Not allergic as in break-out in hives and my throat closes up, but allergic as in everytime I eat a wheat-touched product my face bloats up, my tummy bloats up and I just feel generally yucky. As women we all know that’s something that we’d rather avoid.

So how did I first come to terms with the no-wheat policy? I mean, I was addicted. I ate cereal for brekkie, wraps for lunch and pasta and bread for dinner. Not to mention the occasional sweet, ie cake, biscuits, etc. luckily when I found out I was allergic to wheat I had already started to wean myself off the stuff as it was making me feel so gross. After I knew what the problem was I set out to make my life a better one - minus the wheat. Although I’m not Celiac* I am borderline so it’s important I stay away from wheat as much as I can. I still have the odd bit of wheat here and there but only bite sized portions, as now that I have stopped having it, it’s even harder for me to have it again (if that makes sense).

As hard as it may seem to some of you to stay away from wheat it’s not hard at all! There are so many different options these days it’s almost better being allergic as I have so much more to choose from. There are heaps of other breads I can have if I really want as well. Like rice bread! As for the other cravings, i.e cake cravings there are so many places that sell gluten-free options I can have my cake and it too!
Marco Wholefoods Supermarkets are popping up everywhere and provide so many options for wheat intolerances.

So next time you have a sandwich or a wrap and you feel really gross after it, then I’d suggest heading down to your local Macro or health food shop and checking out the other options they have available.
You’ll feel better for it in the end and if you have break out problems on your face it could fix them up!

If you think you or someone else might be Celiac then consult your doctor. If you are Celiac then head to this site, celiac.com they have all different kinds of gluten-free foods and you can buy them online!

Girl Next Door xxx

*Celiac is a disease that affects many people, basically you can’t have ANY wheat products at all. Ever. Generally if one member in your family suffers from this disease then other members of your family will be more to likely to as well.

Teens and their vocab

2007-11-09T16:58:00.000+11:00

We all know teens have their own way of speaking. The Teen Language, their Lingo, they use to communicate and keep adults out of the loop. Being 22 and having worked on a teen mag for nearly 4 years I’ve got the DL, I know my OMG’s from my TDF’s and I know when ATM should be used. I also know when to LOL.

But not all the latest ‘teen speak’ is classy. As I have a sister who is 15 and she has friend’s who are around the same age I tend to be ‘friends’ with a lot of them on myspace (apparently this generation haven’t ‘discovered’ facebook yet).
Keeping in mind a lot of my readers are teens I’m going to try and keep this as short and sweet as I can.

The thing I don’t understand is why this generation of teens think it’s cool to swear on the 'net. I mean, I have to take my hat off to anyone who uses a swear word from time to time. After all they are damn satisfying words (specially when you stub your toe, get a parking fine or find out your boyfriend’s been cheating on you) but when you’re on myspace posting bulletins and comments with the subject line as ‘f@#$ this’ and ‘f#@$#$@ c#$% that’ it gets really….. what’s the word I’m looking for here......un-classy? Rude? Really inappropriate?

Now don’t get me wrong I am no prude (as my boyfriend and friends close to me can assure you) but I just think that every time I log into my myspace page and I see these stupid bulletins with swear words typed in so bold you’d think it was going out of fashion, I kinda wanna give you all a smack on the bum. From now on when I see these bulletins I will simply delete you from my friends list. Aha that's right. Coz ATM I am not LOL and I am not a happy chappy.

Girl Next Door xx

P.S Enjoy your weekend!

Writer’s block sweeps through Hollywood

2007-11-08T10:56:00.000+11:00

The writer’s of ALL our fave TV shows have officially gone on strike! That’s’ right, CSI, Las Vegas, Desperate Housewives, Heroes, Prison Break! You name the TV show and their writer’s have gone on strike in Hollywood.
The news has swept through Hollywood and fellow cast members who have been affected fear they will be out of a job for X amount of time.

Alot of the talk shows are based on promoting TV shows and films so they will stop as well. The Jay Leno Show for example will cease til further notice as there will be nothing for them to talk about. Our fave shows will be back next year but will just stop mid-season. For those of you who tuned into Prison Break last night (or those of you who are regular viewers) will know that the show wasn’t aired for two weeks we had to wait TWO WHOLE WEEKS to find out what happens next, that was absolute torture in itself but what if we have to wait 6 months, 8 months, 12 MONTHS to see what happens in the last couple of episodes of our other fave TV shows?
What does this mean for Australian TV? Our writer’s haven’t gone on strike does that mean we’ll be seeing 4 hours of Home and Away? 8 hours of Big Brother? They’ll have to be filling the airtime with other TV shows – won’t they? Maybe our old loved shows will be back? The O.C, The Nanny, Dawson’s Creek? Not to mention the Foxtel channels that rely heavily on the use of American TV shows to keep them going will have to resort to………(killer music cue)………Aussie soaps?!?! NOOOOOOOoooooooooo!

There is no set date on when this feud will end or be sorted out but the bulk of the problem is that the writer’s want more mula! They are sick of taking a back seat when the actors get all the fame and fortune. But really where would be without the writer’s of our fave TV shows? I for one know that I would be forever reading books to get that same high I get from watching my fave show. It’s like a drug addiction. But would it be the same, the same as seeing the cast members looking glam or not so glam in all their hotness and hot clothes? No way! Bring back the writer’s!!!!!!

What shows would you like to see be brought back in the writer’s strike?

Girl Next Door xx

Extra - The good stuff!

2007-11-01T10:48:00.000+11:00

Ever had one of those mornings where you wake up and feel like you've forgotten something?
I had one of those this morning. I walked out of the house quite impressed with my new outfit and fresh spray tan when I suddenly realised, that I had forgotten to brush my teeth!
This usually is the one thing I NEVER forget. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that I usually have my breakfast at home and today I decided to have my breakfast at work?
Maybe it’s coz it’s a yucky day today? Whatever the reason I still can’t believe it! And all I can say is Thank God for Extra!

Girl Next Door xx

Oops, they did it again!

2007-10-31T10:46:00.000+11:00

You know how I was having a go at the really bad service I got at Sportsgirl a couple of weeks ago?
Well, it turns out that the shoes I bought have broken. Yes that's right the $99 I spent on my flat silver shoes with the major bling have fallen apart. One of the blings has fallen off! I can't...well actually I can believe it and I am going to walk in there at lunchtime and demand an exchange! And if I don't get it...let’s just say you'll be hearing about it. Let's just say NW (the biggest gossip mag in my building) will be hearing about it.

It's not that I don’t like Sportsgirl, but from the bad service to the brakeage of the merchandise I am so not impressed!

Why do these chain stores continue to put their prices up when their product is so crap! Everyone is wearing it and it’s not even good quality!
The funny thing is I keep going back for more. I keep going to spend my hard earned cashola on the stuff.

Can someone please explain to me why and how we keep paying these prices for such bad quality product? I saw a dress in Sportsgirl the other day for $300! $300! And then I saw two people in the street wearing it and it wasn’t even a nice/hot dress!

Leave me your thoughts….please!

Girl Next Door x

New Hosts of Big Brother 2008....

2007-10-29T09:00:00.000+11:00

It's time to go.... Gretel Killeen and time to welcome in Big Brother 2008 and its fresh new hosts…...Kyle and Jackie O!

That's right, the duo of my fave Sydney (2DayFM) radio show have just signed onto Channel Ten's biggest reality TV show. They’ll be giving the series a fresh and new take, Jackie O says, "There will be alot of changes especially in the contestants", sounds very exciting and I for one will be watching it just to get a taste of what the pair will be like together on the Queensland stage.

There’s still a lot of speculation as to whether or not Gretel resigned or was booted from the network.

A big congratulations to Kyle and Jackie, both doing so well at the moment, they just keep getting bigger and bigger.

Girl Next Door xx

Fashion news straight from the world of the fashionista’s themselves!

2007-10-26T15:28:00.000+10:00

That’s right guys today we have a special guest on Thoughts. Meet Miss Phoebe Rathmell, Junior Fashion Editor of Girlfriend Magazine (pictured right) and (I’m not going to lie to you) just happened to be my gorgeous bestie.

I know I don’t have much on here about fashion so I have called in the help of Phoebe (coz she is an absolute expert) to keep you guys (my gorgeous readers who I want to be up-to-date as much as possible) on the latest fashions this week.
Take it away Phoebe!

“Trends I'm loving this second...
Experimental nail polish, different shade a day (fluro, white, black etc)
Hair accessories... turbans, scarves, bling clips, trilbies
Sunnies from 60s, 70s, 80s
High waisted anything (I'm still so obsessed)

Trends I’m SO over…
Fluro
Big loud slogan tees (aghhhhh)
Coloured tights (only coz I can't pull them off)
Baby doll dresses (excuse me but is half the female population pregnant, cause they look it!)”

And I second all of that!
Thanks Miss Phoebe!
Have a beautiful weekend!
Girl Next Door xx

Macro hits the shores of Sydney’s Northern Beaches

2007-10-26T15:21:00.000+10:00

I have been waiting for this moment for quite some time now. Macro the wholefoods specialises in every kind of organic product possible. If it’s quality you’re after, then this is the place to do your shopping. Fresh produce and products are slightly more exxy than your average Coles/Woolies but if you have the mula then go for it. If you don’t (I’ll put my hand up and admit that I don’t) then you should just try and get half-half. Get the produce like all meat, all poultry and beauty products from Macro, for quality.

For fresh produce get half at Macro, you want to get your fruits and vegies that grow above the ground (these ones will be more susceptible to being full off pesticides and chemicals), for example; apples, pears, strawberries, tomatoes (this is major - have you seen how big our average strawberries are getting these days? It is not normal!), and things that grow under ground or have skins on them and you peel them off to eat them) you should buy at your local green grocer’s. For example; carrots, beetroot, pumpkin, sweet potato, etc. Mark my words you will taste the difference especially in the tomatoes.

The new Macro in Mona Vale was scheduled to open this Sunday but it turns out they will be opening on Tuesday of next week (30th of October, ‘07).

Still not convinced this place is the bomb? To promote the store opening they will be having a lot of ‘in-store product testing’. Good enough for me! Also you have to try the organic popcorn (BOOST juice bars also stock this product) it comes in sea salt or if you’re in more of a sweet mood they have it with a bit of sugarcane on the top. SOOO good, just enough to get your tastebuds going! And totally healthy.

Let me know how you go!

Girl next Door xx

Today's Headlines

2007-10-24T17:21:00.000+10:00

You know how I said to watch this spice, sorry space, for news on The Spice Girls? Well, here it is! Their first (new) single was released today and although it is a ballad and not quite what we all expected their first single (Headlines (Friendship never ends)) to be. My opinion? It is quite good. Not good as in, when you get home from work and your mum/boyfriend/significant other is cooking you your fave meal, but good as in, you’ve just found out that Britney has gone back into rehab. You’re satisfied but there’s still more to convince you it’s the best news you’ve heard all day. I think it’ll grow on us all coz come on, it is The Spice Girls we’re talking about here and these chicks don’t have comebacks tours everyday.

Speaking of The Spice Girls' comeback tour, there is still speculation as to how exactly we’re all getting tickets, but I'll keep you posted. Did I mention they are only coming to Sydney in Oz?

Anyways as soon as I find out what’s happening with it all I will let you know. In the meantime you can get addicted to their new song (fingers crossed they release a second single soon to make up for the disappointment of the first one) and keep me posted on any news you hear.

Lastly what is with this picture of Krystal from Big Bro (right) is it just me, or does she look waaayyy too plastic? It looks like she’s had work done on her entire face!! This is what happens when you become famous people, you morph into some strange creature that resembles E.T. Also just to clarify this chick is just 19 years old. 19!!!!!!!

Til next time,

Girl Next Door x

P.S I just checked The Spice Girls website and it seems you can buy tickets online now! that's right! The U.S.A's are on sale now and you can get them by clicking here. As for Oz watch this spice, I mean space!

Are you a health freak like moi?

2007-10-23T16:23:00.000+10:00

As you know I am a little intolerant, allergic, whatever you want to call it to a lot of different foods. If you've forgotten or you’re a first time reader of thoughts I'll refresh your memory; wheat, gluten (found in wheat but when something says ‘gluten free’ it’s not always wheat free FYI), cocoa, soy, yellow food colouring (#102) and honey just to name a few.
Well didn’t I think my Christmases had all come at once when I discovered this little show? The Gluten Free & Allergy Show is being held on November 17th and 18th at Sydney Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour. I’ll see you there!
And for all you obsessive health freak foodies out there Kings Cross now holds their Organic Food & Farmers Markets every Saturday! Head on down to Fitzroy Gardens on Macleay Street for fresh, organic fruit, veg, poultry and much more. Don’t worry if you’ve got a hangover from Friday night, they have the best bacon and egg rolls money can buy!
Do you know of any organic markets anywhere in Sydney or Australia?
Leave me a comment and let me know which ones are your faves!

Girl Next Door xx

P.S Due to popular demand my A.K.A name is back and here to stay! Thanks for all your feedback!

That, just destroyed my buzz

2007-10-18T17:08:00.000+10:00

It's always the way isn't?
You know, you're having a lovely morning, walking to the bus stop, the birds are chirping, the mother ducks are quacking with their long line of baby ducklings trailing behind them and the rabbits and the cockatoos are all frolicking together in the park (just in case you’re wondering if I walk through a zoo in the morning I actually live near a lake, with lots of wildlife).

It was going to be a gorgeous day and I was happily listening to Kyle & Jackie O, how I start my day most mornings. I hopped onto the bus and sat down feeling quite happy with myself that I’d scored a seat. I shifted the volume on my i-pod a little higher as the bus started to move. 5 minutes later, I was in my own world. Until the woman sitting next to me decided to start waving her hands around like there was a bomb about to explode. I turned to look at her and realised she was actually waving her hands at me. I pulled my headphones out and all she could say (well almost yell) was ‘Can you turn the volume down? They’re leaking!” Leaking?!?! What the hell is 'leaking' supposed to mean? I looked around me and saw that no, my head phones were not leaking they were merely up a little louder as I was in such a great mood, ‘was’ being the operative word here.
I grunted a ‘Sure, no worries’ to her as I sat there in absolute disgust. Was she serious? There’s a civil war happening, there’s people dying every 3 minutes of starvation and she wants me to turn my volume down?

It got me wondering, why are people on public transport so damn anal? I mean this woman obviously had a stick shoved....well she was obviously annoyed but I mean how dare she, she totally destroyed my buzz!

What if I was a tattooed up, 10 piercings on my body and black make up kinda gal, do you think she would have even thought about asking me to turn my i-pod down?
I think not.

Have you ever encountered an anal public transporter? Has someone destroyed your buzz by rudely asking you to do something that’s totally (not illegal) and in your nature to do?

Bella xx

P.S my A.K.A name, Girl Next Door will cease as of this blog. Readers of Thoughts, I'm Bella (the one who has been writing entertaining blog for you these past couple of months).

How much is that puppy in the window?

2007-10-15T12:09:00.000+10:00

I went into a pet shop over the weekend (I was 'called in') by the cutest puppy I had ever seen. It was truly love at first sight.
When I walked in with my boyfriend and his mate they knew that there was no turning back. Standing and looking at the pup from outside the shop is one thing, but going into hold her is quite a decision. The little Pomeranian X Maltese was just a bundle of fluff waiting to be swept into a good home. I wanted so bad to just smuggle her into my bag and run out of there, Bionic Woman style. But unfortunately my current state of home isn't appropriate for a growing pup. In fact I spoke to someone the other day who had just bought a puppy with her boyfriend. They live together in a house but still it was bit of hassle having a pup there. "We want to get rid of him," she said, "I'll make sure I find him a good home but I just can't handle having a puppy right now, my boyfriend and I both work full time and we have to leave him at home all day by himself. I'd rather he be amused all day with a loving family than keeping him with us just because we 'want a puppy'. It’s just not practical right now. Just quietly it's like having a child."

So there are alot of things to take into consideration before purchasing a pet. I mean you've got to think about food, bowls, and toys. There goes all my hard earned cash, not to mention the time you have to spend in toilet training and trick training. Puppy School is a definite must as well and right now I really don't have the time to commit to that quality time. Puppies need a lot of TLC and although I would be fully prepared to give up all my spare time to nurse him into a beautiful dog it’s just not practical. My apartment being on the second floor would cause complications in toilet training her and taking her out every hour.

Oh well at least I know what puppy I want now. Pomeranian X Maltese = so cute.

Wonder if life would be easier if I could just walk into Louis Vuitton and choose the most exxy dog carrier there, Jessica Simpson style? Then I could take her everywhere with me. Work would love that!
Although when I was working at Girlfriend someone bought in their kitten and she just ran round the office all day. It was so cool.

What about you? Do you have a pet? Do you find it hard to take them for walks during the week and is general looking after quite hard?

Girl Next Door x

P.S This is my official 100th Post!
Thanks to everyone who has been reading Thoughts and all of you subscribers! Very exciting indeed!

Do you have a bestie? Do you want to star in your fave magazine?

2007-10-12T16:00:00.000+10:00

Then you've come to the right place!

Has your friend been through something major, for example an eating disorder? A parental problem that has led them to moving out of home perhaps? Maybe they're addicted to drugs?
If you're between the age of 15-22 and you're interested (or you know someone who is) and you don't mind having your photo published in Girlfriend Magazine, then email me your name, email address and mobile number at bel.frizza@hotmail.com with Besties Story in the subject line.

Whether it happened to you yesterday, last week or last year I want to hear from you!

Thanks so much!!

Girl Next Door xx

In other celeb news...

2007-10-12T11:44:00.001+10:00

Justin Timberlake, currently on his world tour, was performing earlier this week. Usually after Justin does a couple of songs he exits the stage for a bit of an intermission, Timbaland then gets on stage and keeps the crowd revved up while waiting for Justin’s return. During this time JT usually has just enough time to grab a drink, make a quick pit stop and then get back onto the stage. On this particular performance though JT was out for almost 45 minutes! “The fans were obviously getting annoyed” says Thoughts undercover spy, "They had no idea why he was taking so long to come back on stage".

Want to know what really happened? Apparently Justin was out in his dressing room with his latest flame Jessica Biel, let’s just say she showed him a good time for about half an hour, then once finished Justin walked out and announced to his road crew, “Well, that’s the best I’ve ever had!”
Go Jess and Justin!!

I just had to share that one!
Enjoy your weekend

Girl Next Door x

Talk of the town

2007-10-12T09:07:00.000+10:00

Hot off the press this morning are the Madden twins Benji and Joel and their antics at the Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards.

Both the boys invited The Veronica's twins, Lisa and Jess to their dressing room before the show. Perhaps for a friendly chat and warm up of their voices before their performances? Maybe not. One of our spies over heard the Origliasso twins leaving their dressing room and whispering, "I can't believe he just hit on you".

As Mr Joel Madden is expecting his first child we've got our money on Benji, who was flying solo this time round to Oz. His usual accessory, ex-Bardot pop star Sophie Monk was nowhere to be seen.

Girl Next Door x

Funny coz it's true

2007-10-11T15:13:00.000+10:00

My employer, ACP Magazines put a message of a different kind on our intranet this morning. Read about it at Sydney Morning Herald.
Pretty funny stuff. It even made it to the Nova news bulletin!

Girl next Door xx

Picky, me? Never!

2007-10-11T13:46:00.000+10:00

Being allergic to alot of today's modern convenience foods I find it hard to eat out. Any of my friends can vouch for me being one severely picky eater.
But it's not my fault, really, I'm allergic to:
• Wheat
• Cocoa - yes cocoa!!! I am allergic to chocolate! can you believe it?
• Honey
• Soy - commonly known as 'pretty good for you' but not really. This stuff is sooo evil! Especially soy milk! Stay away! Want proof of this? Think about every time you eat sushi and you smother your roll in soy sauce. Now think about how you feel after, what do you crave? Sugar? Lollies? Chocolate perhaps? Yep, I thought so.
• Dairy
• The colour Yellow, yes no yellow jellies for moi.

As you can see it’s all about the gluten/wheat/soy free food for me. But before you get the violin out, I have to let you in on a little secret… it really isn’t that hard.
I’ll admit to you that before I found out I was allergic to everything I was a full-on wheat addict. No joke, I loved pizza, pasta, soy capps, chocolate, yellow lollies (esp. pineapples), cakes and biscuits. But I started to realise how ill I felt after I had consumed any of the above.

After having one too many soy capps one day and an innocent wrap for lunch I had hit rock bottom. I had to stop. So from that day on I cut down on all wheat, soy and chocolate and you know what? I actually felt OK, you could even go as far as saying that I felt good. I felt good about my body and who I was.

Then I discovered some cool places that I could go to eat where I could actually eat the food. I didn’t have to sit there anymore and watch my friends gorge themselves on food I couldn’t eat. Want to know what these places are? OK:

1. My local sushi train – local to work, in HOYTS on George St is Sushi Train. Trust me you haven’t eaten sushi til you’ve tried this stuff, minus the soy sauce of course!!
2. Macro Wholefoods – supermarket yes, but a lot of these have a café attached to them. Talk about amazing! And most things are organic!
3. IKU – Another wholefoods (organic) place, but take away! Yay I can now get take away for lunch at work!

Are you a fan of healthy food chains? And I don’t mean Subway. NEWSFLASH: Subway is SO not good for you.
If you are a fan let me know what you like and don’t like and if you’re allergic to anything.

So you see I’m not really that fussy...just allergic!

Did I mention I only eat organic meat and chicken?

Girl Next Door x

P.S the latest addition to the Macro family, Macro Wholefoods @ Mona Vale will be opening Tuesday 30th of October!

Service with a smile, is it too much to ask these days?

2007-10-08T09:53:00.000+10:00

A Sunday morning in October that isn’t so nice, my bestie and I head down to our local mall for a spot of window shopping. I was also after a pair of new flats as the pair I have been shamelessly living in for the past 3 months took a turn for the worst the other day and sliced on me (by sliced I mean totally let me down, but that’s a whole other blog).
We wound our way round the various shops, Wittner, Target, Cue, Diva, Equip and Sportsgirl. Having previously worked at Sportsgirl I feel a certain love for many things there – a closeness to the product that gets me into a bit of trouble with my savings card. Sportsgirl’s latest offering ‘FROCKTOBER’ is a collection that speaks for itself and definitely sells itself without a second glance. The only thing I think needs a bit of a kick-up-the-butt (so to speak) is their current staff quota.

My bestie and I did a loop of the store, ‘cute’, ‘nah’, ‘whatever’, ‘yep’ and ‘I am obsessed’ are the phrases we use to assess each item. After pretty much ‘whatever-ing’ through most of the store (mostly coz of the price, one dress was $299 – hello, no one told me that money grows on trees these days, and let’s face it, Sportsgirl is not Bettina Liano!) we got to the accessories wall. A gorgeous pair of flats caught my eye; sliver with some major bling on the toes. I was in love! ‘OMG I have to try these on I am obsessed!!’ I look around to ask someone for a size, looking, looking – I catch a girl’s eye who I assume is working there (as she is standing in the change rooms taking clothes from the two exiting people – the only two people in the change rooms). ‘Umm excuse me’, I ask ‘can I grab these in a 7’. ‘Sure’ she replies minus the fake smile, actually minus any personality at all.

The girl comes back over with a shoebox in her hand and drops it at my feet.
I open the box to get the shoes out and by this time I am astonished at the lack of help this girl has given me. The shoes are all wrapped up in white tissue paper and haven’t been touched before…OK last time I checked, it’s your job when working in retail to take the shoes out of the box for the customer and unwrap them, then give to them to the customer to try on.
After trying on the flats and deciding they were the wrong size I looked up again to see if I could catch someone else’s eye to get another size, (the original girl was no where to be seen). Do you think there was anyone around at all? No. Apart from one girl at the register who clearly was not serving anyone. ‘Where is everyone who works here?’ I asked my bestie with extra loudness to make sure the girl at the register heard me. Finally, the original girl who was in the change rooms flutters out of nowhere and I have to ask her for another size. That’s right she didn’t even ask ‘How did the 7’s go’ or anything!

Not to bitch about Sportsgirl coz I love the place. Seriously. I am obsessed! But when they have girls like this working there on the weekend (which is the most busy and crucial time for chicks with their plastic cards) it really puts the product down in a bad way. Let’s just say I won’t be running back to that Sportsgirl store any time soon. Call me old-fashioned but when I’m shopping I want service with a smile as much as I want to purchase the item, coz for me it comes hand in hand. What about you? Does service affect what you buy? I’d love to know if it’s all just me.

Girl Next Door xx

The Spirit of Breast Cancer

2007-10-04T10:36:00.000+10:00

October, National Breast Cancer month. Pink hair dryers, pink straightening irons, pink chocolate, pink biscuits, pink clothes, pink shoes and now... just when you thought they couldn't possibly make ANYTHING else pink, we bring you.. the pink airplane. Well I did search high and low for a pic for you but unfortunately was unsuccessful. Just so you know there is one out there, so when you see a pink object flying over you on the weekend, that's what it is...just flying domestically.

I have to say I am loving the spirit of us Aussies, getting behind every aspect of the breast cancer campaign. Only thing that kind of annoys me is that there are ALOT more cancers out there, apart from breast cancer. We're not as well educated about them as breast cancer which is a bit sad. While breast cancer affects alot of Australian and worldwide families and is responsible for 2,600 deaths every year (in Oz) there are also alot of other cancers that are responsible for affecting our loved ones. For example, bone cancer, prostate cancer, skin cancer, throat cancer, lung cancer, etc. I'm not going to go into every single one right now but I think we must also spare a thought for those who are suffering any kind of cancer at all.

In the spirit of breast cancer month (October) which is now, why not invite your girlie pals over for a Pink Party and raise some much needed funds for a much needed cause. You can head down to your local Michel's Patisserie and purchase as many pink frosted cupcakes as you like, (and let me tell you they are yummy) coz I may have tried one or three - haha! They also have the cutest frosted pink ribbon on them (which is also extra tasty!)! Then you can head down to your local bottle-O and grab a couple of bottles of Pink champagne. When your down there (and while you're in the pink mood) why not pick up a new Bopo card (the new VISA for kids who want to have a credit card without having to mortgage your myspace profile for one), they come in pink too (pictured) head to for more details.

Please note: I do not work in advertising....just the creative department for advertising.

Enjoy the sunshine this weekend!

Girl Next Door xx

Big Day Out 2008 it's on its way

2007-10-02T13:34:00.001+10:00

You know what my fave time of year is? Even more so than Christmas? Big Day out!!!!

Those of your who don't know me, BDO is something I start counting down the days from about now. Months of prep go into my outfit, how I'm getting there, who I'm going with. It's all quite an event for me and those around me. Just ask my boyfriend who has to deal with me jumping up and down during the last 2 weeks of counting down each morning when I get up.

Tickets go on sale October 10th, but if you're planning on getting some if you're not online by 9.30am I'd kiss your tickets goodbye as these days concerts and festivals sell out in a matter of minutes! It's actually quite ridiculous! Last year I didn't get a ticket to BDO. But you know where there's a will, there's a way and I ended up getting 2; one for my boy and one for me!

Wanna know the line up for this year? Rage Against The Machine (I'm not exactly sure who they are but my boyfriend assures me they're the best thing since Cold Chisel), Bjork will also be making her first appearance since 1994, one of the original brat packers, Grinspoon is back as hot as ever, Phil fresh out of rehab and looking pretty damn good. Then there's your standard Hilltop Hoods, Paul Kelly, Sarah Blasko, Faker, Midnight Juggernauts and Something With Numbers. More acts to come so watch this space! Are you keen yet? I am!! I so hope I get a ticket!!!

Peace out,

Girl Next Door xx

P.S Big Day Out is MA15+ only

The Glorious Grand Final

2007-09-28T10:46:00.000+10:00

Just in case you didn't know...the NRL grand final is on this Sunday! And coz I live in The Northern Beaches and most days of the week I go for a morning jog, I like to pick up the paper on my way back into my apartment.

The Manly Daily has managed to have something everyday, that's right everyday this week featured on The Sea Eagles or should I say The Mighty Sea Eagles. Now, don't get me wrong I am totally getting into the spirit of grand finals but everyday, come on, it gets a bit overkill. So when I picked up the paper this morning and made my morning smoothie, flipped to the front page and saw that fine specimen of a man, Brett Stewart looking back at me (for the 5th time this week) I couldn't help but feel a little over it. Then I turned to page two. More footy supporters. Page 3, more footy. Page 4, more supporters this time Sarah Murdoch. WHOA! Hold it, Sarah Murdoch? The face of Bonds is wearing the maroon and white colours that I have been staring at for the past 3 minutes. This got me thinking, if Sarah Murdoch is getting into the whole mighty footy thing then why can't I?

When I spoke to my boyfriend about 15 minutes ago and he told me he'd bought a maroon ribbon to hang off his car (you know in the whole spirit of things) it made me realise that getting into the spirit of things is actually kinda fun. And you know what? Now that I think about it I am so looking forward to watching the grand final in the atmosphere of it all. But I guess I should put it out there that at this point in time The Sea Eagles are on $2.50 to win and The Melbourne Storms are on $1.50..

GO THE MIGHTY SEA EAGLES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Do you think I'm being a little overkill?

Have a great long weekend!

Love Girl Next Door xx

The Right Decision

2007-09-27T10:47:00.000+10:00

How long it has been since I have checked with you! So sorry my dumplings!
And can you believe the long weekend is nearing us again?

What are you guys getting up to for the long weekend? Anything exciting? I am just so happy coz I am getting my hair done! It has been such a long time since I have got the colour retouched. It's just these days it's so hard for me to save extra cash to try and go. It just ends up being at the bottom of my to-do list. So because I haven't been for so long - I am torn! Brunette or blonde? Short or long? Foils or a tint? A head massage or the chair massage? Seriously how is a girl supposed to decide when there are all these options? And I'm the kind of person who is really hard at making decisions! For example when my boyfriend takes me out for dinner and I'm trying to decide between the chicken and the fish I have to go over in my mind the pros and the cons of why I would want either one (does anyone else do this?!?!) and then once I have decided, the waitress has typed my order into her electronic notepad which no doubt goes straight to the cooks electronic screen, I decide that I've made The Wrong Decision.

So I think I may need your help in deciding exactly what I will do with my hair to make sure I am making The Right Decision.

Have a look at these pics and let me know what you think - I'll need to know by tomorrow afternoon please!

Thanks y'all,

Girl Next Door xx

Missing Maddie - where is this bundle of joy?

2007-09-20T11:34:00.000+10:00

Thanks for your comments. I Thought I'd push a few buttons with my 'I (don't) heart America' post. Good to hear you still love me though ; )

Just wondering what everyone's thoughts are on the toddler, Maddie going missing from her family holiday in Portugal? If you weren't tuned into The Kyle & Jackie-O show thismorning then you missed some interesting info.
Good friend of Kyle & Jackie, John Ryan used his lie detecting machine to read Maddie's mother and father. To determine whether or not they are being deceptive in their interviews. John came to the conclusion that Maddie's mother was being slightly deceptive in the way she was speaking but he thinks this deception is some how not related to the kidnapping of their daughter on May 3rd, 2007.

Kyle and Jackie then spoke with 'Irene' a well known Psychic who gave her thoughts on Maddie's whereabouts. "I feel Maddie was alive for 101 days," she says "The time after that she was not. I also feel there is another body near hers." As for Maddie's mother, Irene's chilling views re-enforce what John assumed after the voice-reading. "I feel she knows something, but is not speaking up. She definitely has something to hide but it may not have anything to do with Maddie's kidnapping".

I'm sure we'll hear alot more about this story in the coming days. I'll definitely keep you posted! In the meantime let me know what you think? Are Maddie's parents the masterminds behind her kidnapping? Are they hiding information they know about the kidnappers in order to protect their own lives? Or are they just sick and tired of worrying about where their daughter is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the last 4 months....

Girl Next Door xx

I (don't) heart America

2007-09-18T16:59:00.000+10:00

Is anyone else over America Ferrera?
Her TV show Ugly Betty has been a total flop with my friends and considering most of my friends are in the mag industry, isn't that saying something?

We all LOVED The Devil Wears Prada with a capital L! We could all watch it til the cows come home. But the minute Ugly Betty came into our Sunday night viewing pleasure...well I guess you can put two and two together and see that it wasn't exact pleasure that took place when we watched the first episode.

The Ugly is the new Beautiful slogan that has been plastered into everyone's mind and don't get me wrong I FULLY agree and support it, but the show is just a bit too sad and trys waaay too hard to be Devil when it just ain't....show of hands to who agrees?

Glad I got that off my chest!

Girl next Door x

P.S Tomorrow I'll answer one of your many questinos to me. Keep them coming through!

Sex and the City Movie...

2007-09-15T17:35:00.000+10:00

Now that I have your attention. The Sex and the City movie has already had so much exciting press, but the real excitedment can start for real now as they start shooting next week! WHOOOOOOOO!!! Those 4 girls wiull be back soon to give us the installments we've been waiting and praying for!
Watch this space for spoiler alerts!!

Girl Next Door x

Words of hope from someone who had lost everything

2007-09-14T10:50:00.000+10:00

"When you are someone like me you realise that life is everything and you grab it with both hands and embrace it.

If there is something that you feel needs to be done, go and do it, and do it wholeheartedly because life is short.

People ask me how I can still be so happy with all this on my plate. But I have lived my life as a spark. I don't want to live a life where I am living until I am 100 and just flat boring.

I have always lived my life with compassion and passion. I have never been one to keep my silence about anything I have felt passionate about. ''

Melanoma is no joke. And I will keep championing this cause till the day I take my last breath."
The words of a girl who's life was destroyed at such a young age. You're probably heard by now that Clare Oliver passed away yesterday morning 4 years into her battle with cancer.

Someone who lived everyday like it was her last, she really had no choice. This gorgeous girl who had just finished her communications degree and had been just 3 weeks into her job at SBS. My heart goes out to her family and friends who have had to be living everyday in hell. Watching her slowly fade away.

And all because of those death machines they call 'solarium's'. I know SO many people who can't go two weeks without getting in touch with their bohemian side and hitting up the local tanning salon.

I really hope everyone learns from Clare's mistake and counts their days as a trophy. Solarium's should be burn't at the stake. Literally.

Take care all and remember to slip, slop, slap. Even when the sun isn't that hot you can still get burn't.

Gilr Next Door xx

P.S If you do have to be tanned (and let's face it we all love to look brown) then invest in a good faux tan. Something that's organic preferably and not going to be saoking into your skin with deadly chemicals. Basically if you can't eat what you're putting on your skin, then it ain't good for you. Spray tans better than baking in the sun too, but kept to a minimum, as they are generally very chemical based.