GUEST BLOGGER - What's in my makeup bag?

It's GUEST BLOGGER time! This week, the gorgeous Angela from Ladyhub agreed to share with us the contents of her makeup bag. So let's take a peek, shall we?

I have a major crush on all of the summer brights and neons trending right now in the

fashion world. The bolder and hotter the color, the better. Such intense hues only work

if you know how to compliment them with your makeup. The key to making it work;

simplicity.

I make sure to highlight only one part of my face at a time. If I go with a sparkly or

colored eye liner, I make sure to sport a nude lip. With the perfect flush of a coral-

colored blush, I keep my eyes and lips toned down. When I slick on my favorite fuchsia

lip gloss (#4), the rest of my face is subtle. You get the picture.

Here are some of the products in my makeup bag that make it so easy for me to look

my best. I couldn’t get through this summer without these!...

#1 - Clinique 20 Invisible Blend Loose Powder : for a beautiful, matte finish

#2 - Revlon PhotoReady Foundation in 003 Shell : for even, glowing skin

#3 - Stila Custom Color Blush Self-adjusting Coral : for perfectly rosy cheeks

#4 - Real Colors Lip Fury Lip Gloss : for a HOT, plump pout

#5 - L’Oreal Magic Perfecting Base Face Primer : for pores-no-more

#6 - Prestige Eye Shadow in Flushed : for light, shimmery eyes

#7 - Maybelline The Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara in Glam Black : for sexy lashes

#8 - Wet n Wild Coloricon Eyeliner in Deep Blue : for eyes that pop

#9 - Color Club Nail Polish in Peach Out Purple : for bright nails you can wear to work

#10 - Stila Sparkle Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Flash - for starlet eyes, even at the

pool

xxAnge

Do you have any brights and/or neon in your makeup bag right now? What's your favorite product for this summer?

June Favorites 2012

It's Favorites time again! How was everyone's month? I had, by far, the busiest month so far this year. Apart from wrapping up the semester at work, I've also been planning our summer trip and getting all my documents ready for the visas I'll need for going to Europe and Dubai. What a headache that was! Also, I had to get dental surgery... again. But, the weather has been nice recently and I'm really starting to get into vacation mode. Only one month to go!

So, let's jump into my favorites for the month of June, shall we?

I'm sure many of you have read The Secret or have at least seen the documentary? I had high expectations for The Magic, the follow-up, and it definitely didn't disappoint. The Magic is about being thankful for everything and everyone you have in your life, and the more gratitude you show, the more blessings you will receive. I just love this! I have so many blessings, and this book has really helped me to be more aware of them, and to truly appreciate it and to be more thankful.

I wasn't familiar with the brand, Elite Paris, when I bought this blush a few weeks ago. I was curious to try it and I've been wearing it almost every single day. It's a great powder blush, and it's very pigmented, so a little goes a long way. I got it at a local drugstore here in Taipei, and unfortunately I'm not sure where else this brand is sold.

I purchased this pair of white Converse more than three years ago, and only wore it a couple of times until it was pushed to the back of my closet. But this summer I decided to give them another chance, and I totally love it. I walk a lot, and teach at an elementary school, so it's perfect.

I've been using my St. Ives Apricot body scrub more often, because I wear shorts every single day. I love the healthy glow it gives my skin after using it, and it smells great.

This month, I've been all about floral shorts. I'm a big fan of the floral print trend, and can't wait to stock up on some more pieces. This pair is from Alice + Olivia. Isn't it cute?

Girls, I think I've found the perfect lipstick. I bought the YSL Rouge Volupte a few months ago with summer in mind. Finally, I've been able to wear it and it's such a fantastic product. It goes on smoothly, stays on for hours, and it doesn't smell funky. (Which I can't stand in a lot of lipsticks.)

What have you been loving this past month?

Have you entered my Michael Kors GIVEAWAY?

Top 10 Tuesday: Favorite Online Shopping Sites

I love to shop just as much as the next girl. Okay, maybe a little bit more... Living in Taiwan I have numerous options when it comes to shopping and stores, but sometimes I "need" something specific, and that's when I turn to the wonderful worldwide web. 

International shipping costs can be a beatch, and that's why I love sites that offer free shipping, or shipping at a reasonable rate. Whether it's to buy or just to browse, these are my favorite online shopping websites: (I add new favorites all the time, so check back!)

Listed alphabetically 

(* = Site offers FREE international shipping)

ASOS* Clothing, Accessories, Shoes, Bags & Beauty Products
AVENUE 32 Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags 
Azalea Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
COSME-DE* Beauty, Bath & Body Products
DAILYLOOK Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
DERMSTORE Beauty, Bath & Body Products
ESCENTUAL Beauty, Bath & Body Products
EVERLANE Clothing, Bags & Shoes
FARFETCH Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags

FEELUNIQUE* Beauty, Bath & Body Products
FORWARD by Elyse Walker* Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
LA GARCONNE* Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
LOOKFANTASTIC* Beauty, Bath & Body Products
LUISAVIAROMA* Clothing, Accessories, Shoes, Bags & Home
MATCHESFASION Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags 
MYTHERESA Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
NASTYGAL  Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
NEEDSUPPLY Clothing, Accessories, Shoes, Bags & Home
NET-A-PORTER Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
NORDSTROM Clothing, Accessories, Shoes, Bags, Home & Beauty
REVOLVEClothing* Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
SHEINSIDE* Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags

SHOPBOP Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
SKINSTORE Beauty, Bath & Body Products 
SPRING Clothing, Accessories, Shoes, Bags, Home & Beauty
SSENSE Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags
STEVEN ALAN Clothing, Accessories, Shoes, Bags & Home

THE BOOK DEPOSITORY* Books & Stationery
THE OUTNET Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags

ZAPPOS Clothing, Accessories, Shoes & Bags

                   Follow me on Instagram @_liesl_

If you know of any other great sites that offer free international shipping (or shipping at a reasonable cost), please share it with the rest of us shopaholics.

*Disclaimer

I'm not being paid to advertise these sites. These are my personal and honest opinions. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links.

30 Days of Reflection (Part 3)

When I started my blog journey in June last year, I posted the first 30 Days of Reflection picture challenge where I had to post certain photos every day for 30 days. Then, back in January I continued the challenge with 30 Days of Reflection (Part 2). Although it's challenging to post every single day, I really enjoyed doing it, and I'm taking it on again with the next 30 posts.

Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you, 30 Days of Reflection (Part 3):

Day 61 – A picture of the last place you traveled to

Day 62 – A picture of your favorite childhood book

Day 63 – A picture of a photo in your room

Day 64 – A picture of something green

Day 65 – A picture of something you borrowed from someone else

Day 66 – A picture of your favorite piece of jewelry

Day 67 – A picture of a stuffed animal

Day 68 – A picture of something red

Day 69 – A picture of your lunch

Day 70 – A picture of the last thing that you bought

Day 71 – A picture of your sunglasses

Day 72 – A picture of a ticket

Day 73 – A picture of your favorite childhood movie

Day 74 – A picture of something you baked

Day 75 – A picture of the most embarrassing item in your closet

Day 76 – A picture of something your mom bought you

Day 77 – A picture of your bathroom

Day 78 – A picture of what’s inside your fridge

Day 79 – A picture of something that made you smile today

Day 80 – A picture of something yellow

Day 81 – A picture of a place you went today

Day 82 – A picture of your favorite nail polish color

Day 83 – A picture of something that makes you feel accomplished

Day 84 – A picture of your favorite book

Day 85 – A picture of your favorite quote

Day 86 – A picture of your favorite board game

Day 87 – A picture of your cell phone

Day 88 – A picture of what you're wearing today

Day 89 – A picture of the shoes you’re wearing today

Day 90 – A picture of your breakfast

I'll be starting the challenge on July 1st, because it will be easier to keep track of the days that way. Let me know if you will be taking on the challenge with me on your blog.

Are you ready for a new post on Pretty.Random.Things. every single day for the month of July? I think I am...

Blog Birthday: It's been a year!

Happy Birthday

Pretty.Random.Things.

Yes, that's right, it's already been a year! And what a year’s it’s been. I can’t believe that my precious baby, my blog, is one year old. They grow up so fast, don’t they? For this very special birthday, I’m giving away a brand new MICHAEL KORS golden oversized runway watch as a thank you to all my loyal readers. If you haven’t entered yet, get on it!

Blogging has turned out to be an even more enjoyable hobby than I originally thought. Not only do I get to make lists to my heart’s desire, I've also met some incredibly creative, like-minded people in the blogosphere, and I've had some amazing opportunities come my way.

It's been an interesting journey, and I've definitely learned a lot. I'd like to share some of my favorite posts with you from this past year:

Top 10 Tuesday: Quotes I love and live by

Dear Me

What the duck?

Top 10 Tuesday: Things I'll teach my children

Let's get freaky

Lovely lace for spring/summer 2012

What's in my bag?

Top 10 Tuesday: Pet Peeves

A huge thank you to everyone who's been so supportive of my blog. I really do appreciate every sweet comment and word of encouragement. May there be many more!

What has been your favorite post on Pretty.Random.Things. this past year?

Top 10 Tuesday: Things I want to do before I turn 30

Up until recently, to me, 30 sounded very very old and very very far away. But this year, I'm turning 27. If you asked me at 17 where I saw myself in 10 years, the chances of me saying "living in Asia, in a relationship with an American and being able to travel often" were pretty slim. I think it was more like: "Married, maybe with a kid or two, and a grade 3 homeroom teacher." Isn't it funny, and totally awesome, how life can just surprise us like that?

I've been very blessed and fortunate to have had many unforgettable experiences in my life so far, and I'm extremely grateful for it. But, there are still some unchecked things on my to-do list.

Here are the Top 10 things I still want to do before I turn 30:

1. Adopt a dog

Oh man, I've wanted a dog for so long. Although it would be an extra responsibility, I would love to give a loving home to a furry friend. At the moment we are not allowed a pet in our apartment, but if we get a new place, I'll be at the shelter the next day!

2. Visit Paris

I know, I know! Cliché much? But there's a good reason for it. I just think that there is something so magical about Paris. I want to be there right now, and take a photo exactly like this one! There are still many places that I want to visit, but Paris is definitely at the top of my list.

3. Donate a lot of money to charity

I would love to, instead of spending a stupid and unnecessary amount of money on Christmas presents for friends and family, donate it to my favorite charity. I mean, we really don't need more stuff, do we? I think it would be totally worth it.

4. Master liquid eyeliner

This might seem very mundane to you, but dammit, I can't for the life of me apply liquid eyeliner to look anything like this! And it's just so pretty! First of all, my hands are naturally shaky and I don't like spending a lot of time on makeup, so I rush it. Also, because I can't see very well with my one eye, it's near impossible for me to draw a straight line with the eyeliner while my "good eye" is closed. Ugh! But I WILL MASTER IT! Practice, practice, practice!

5. Get engaged and married

Although The Boyfriend and I have already made our commitment to each other, I would love to be able to make this promise to him in the presence of our families and friends. 

6. Fill up my passport with stamps

Luckily, I'm good on my way of filling up my passport with stamps. I think I have four pages left, and it just so happens that my passport will expire the year that I turn 30. Challenge accepted!

7. Go on a hot air balloon ride

Don't ask me why, but for some reason, I think this would be such a unique and romantic experience. I don't even care about the location, just bring on the giant balloon!

8. Write a children's book

I am by no means a professional writer, but I figured if Madonna can do it, why can't I? I already have some ideas, now I just need an illustrator. Anyone?

9. Buy myself an expensive designer purse

I think it's appropriate for a 30-year old woman to own an expensive designer bag. But only if you can really afford it, and if you don't have any responsibilities that should have higher priority. I would love to buy myself a beautiful designer bag, I don't want it as a gift. Personally, I feel that it would mean so much more to me if I pay for it with money that I earned myself. Because that's how I roll.

10. Apply for a master's degree program

Honestly, I don't even know when I'll have time for this, but I really want to continue my education. I would love to follow a master's degree program in Education Administration from a reputable school in the States.

If you're under 30, what do you still want to do or achieve before then? And those of you who are over 30, what would you still like to experience within the next 3 years?




Have you entered my MICHAEL KORS giveaway?

Friday Favorites

What a weird week! My routine was totally messed up because I took Monday and Tuesday off work to recover from dental surgery. On top of that, the weather has been ridiculous in Taiwan, with extreme torrential rains causing flooding and school closures on Tuesday. And I read that a typhoon might be heading this way soon, too. Don't even get me started on all the earthquakes recently.

On a happy note; It's Friday! I wanted to share some random favorites from this past week. 

Homemade banana ice cream

Source

I pinned this idea on Pinterest a while back, and made it for the first time this week. Banana ice cream using ONLY bananas. (Find the recipe here.) It's so easy, and so delicious, and I don't know why I haven't thought of this before!? In my opinion, it's the perfect summer snack!

Summer vacation is booked

Mykonos, Greece

The Boyfriend and I paid our flight tickets for our summer vacation on Monday. Nothing like having those babies in your hand, and having a great vacation to look forward to. This summer, we will be going on a 12-day cruise of the Mediterranean, visiting Italy, Greece, Monaco, Turkey and Spain. After the cruise, we will spend 3 days in Barcelona before flying to the United Arab Emirates to visit my sister in Dubai for another 10 days. Can't wait!

Revisiting favorite TV shows from the '90s

Somehow The Boyfriend and I started talking about shows that we used to watch as kids. Of course, Rescue 911 and Baywatch came up. I mean, who doesn't know the theme song from Rescue 911, or remember the cast from Baywatch!? We watched a few episodes on YouTube.com and it was amazingly awful, but we really got a kick out of it. Man, I miss the '90s!


Best thing I read this week

(Sorry, this is the best copy I could find. Try the "Zoom" tool on your computer. )

If you love the TV show, Friends, you will definitely enjoy this one; "Everything I know in life I learned from Friends".

What has been your random favorite of the week?

Have you entered my Michael Kors GIVEAWAY?

Top 10 Tuesday: Beach Essentials

As summer vacation is coming up, I'm already daydreaming about lying on the beach with my toes in the sand and not having a care in the world. And, being the obsessive list maker that I am, I've also been mentally checking off my "beach essentials list" for my summer trip, just to make sure I have everything and that it's ready.

I don't like dragging a lot of stuff along with me on a beach day, but these ten things are my absolute must haves.

My Top 10 beach essentials:

1. Bikini

And not just any bikini. It's important for me to have one that fits well and that I feel comfortable in. I bought this lovely coral bikini at Forever 21 in Japan back in April, and I can't wait to wear it for the first time this summer!

2. Sunglasses

This is an absolute must for me! Especially at the beach, with the sun reflecting on the white sand, it can be quite a treacherous experience if you don't have a good pair of sunnies to protect your eyes. (Yes, protect!) Get a good pair with proper UV protection. My first choice is always my Ray-Ban Aviators.

3. Bag

I definitely can't go to the beach without a big bag to carry all of my essentials. This summer, I'll be using this straw bag I bought at a store in Taipei. It's light, and the perfect size for all my stuff.

4. Sun protection

I don't have to tell you how important it is to protect your skin. You all know the deal. I love this one from Nivea. It's oily, but not overpowering, and it stays on forever.

5. Hat

I really love big floppy hats for the beach, but it's a hassle to carry that thing around, especially if it doesn't even fit in your bag. This fedora doesn't really do much on the sun protection front, but I still like it, and it keeps my hair out of my face.

6. Lip balm

Well, for me, this is an all around essential, not just for going to the beach. In the summer I like to use lip balm that has a high SPF. There's nothing worse than getting your lips burned by the sun. Ouchy! This one from Blistex has always been my favorite.

7. Camera

Well, duh, to capture the awesome moments and happy memories at the beach! The Boyfriend and I recently realized we were in desperate need of a new camera, and decided on the Canon G12 to take with us on vacation.

8. Flip flops

When I'm at the beach, and basically most of summer, I will live in my pair of Havaianas.

9. Sarong

I love sarongs! They can be used as a cover up, or something to lie on on the beach. Which cancels out having to take a big, heavy towel with you. I have a couple of cute, colorful ones that I bought in Thailand, that I always take to the beach with me.

10. Magazine / book

Even though I don't really read magazines anymore, I just love flipping through one when I'm at the beach. Or if I'm buying a book for the summer, I'll get something light and that's easy to read.

Do you have a beach essential that's not on my list?

Have you entered my Michael Kors GIVEAWAY?