April Favorites 2013

Happy spring, everyone! As I'm writing this post now, the sun is shining and the birds are singing. A perfect spring day! No need to beat around the bush, here are my favorites from the month of April.

1. Rimmel Wake Me Up foundation

This product has gotten so much hype on the interwebs, so I really wanted to try it. I ordered it from feelunique.com as it's not sold in Taiwan. This foundation is amazing, and totally worth the buzz. It gives my skin a nice dewy finish, and the coverage is fantastic. It smells good, too and stays on for up to 8 hours. I'm curious to see how this foundation will wear in Taiwan's humid summer though. This is one of my favorite drugstore foundations up to date, and I'll definitely repurchase it in the future.

2. Chanel iPhone case

Isn't this phone case so cute? It looks like the Chanel nail polish and you can get it in many different colors. I got mine from a store on etsy.com. Although they sent me the wrong color (I ordered "May" and received "Tendresse") it doesn't really bother me that much, as the colors are very similar. You can get the case in a hard cover or silicone. I got the silicone one, as I hate having to put on/take off a hard cover.

3. Michael Kors rose gold watch

I'm so in love with this watch, which I received a couple of weeks ago from REVOLVEclothing.com I've had the gold version for a while and wanted to change it up a bit with the beautiful rose gold one. I got it in midsized again, as the oversized runway watch is way too big for my wrist. I'm very very happy with this purchase!

4. Essie "Mint Candy Apple"

What's better than a pretty pastel mint on your nails for spring? I adore Essie "Mint Candy Apple", as I only have to apply two coats for it to be completely opaque. I think this one is going to be worn A LOT this year for spring and summer.

5. "An Idiot Abroad" by Karl Pilkington

I bought this book a while ago from my favorite online bookstore, The Book Depository (free international shipping), and this is one of the funniest books I've read in a long time. I love the TV show of Karl traveling to the 7 wonders of the world, and this is the book he wrote while visiting all the famous spots. He is so funny without trying to be funny! I'm so excited to watch the other season where he goes to do things from other people's bucket lists.

6. Urban Decay NAKED Basics palette

I've wanted the Urban Decay NAKED Basics palette for so long and finally received it this month. I waited so long for it because the parcel got stuck at customs (there was a nail polish in it as well). I've only worn it once, but I know that this is going to become my favorite palette to take along when traveling. It's very compact and contains all the nudes and neutrals that I like to wear on my eyes.

What have you been loving this past month?

INSANITY: Day 36 to 41 (Week 6)

I'm so sore and tired today, that typing this intro is taking so much effort. Now that Month 1 and the Recovery Week are finished, we've officially started Month 2 of INSANITY. I knew it was going to be much harder from what people have told me, but OH MY GOSH, this is just insanity on another level! Shaun T has obviously pulled out the big guns for Month 2 and I'm sore, oh so sore...

Here are my daily updates from Week 6:

Day 36 - Fit Test & Max Interval Circuit (Monday)

Yeah, that's right. Let's do two workouts in one day. Say what?! We decided to do the Fit Test workout during our lunch break today, so that we can have a couple of hours break between the two workouts. That was a good choice, because the Max Interval Circuit workout is one hour long, and it's freakin' hard! We've definitely been taken to another level. I could barely keep up with the workout, and I'm totally exhausted now. BY FAR the hardest workout to date. I wonder if it will get easier...

Day 37 - Max Interval Plyo (Tuesday)

Every single muscle in my body is sore today. Having to do two workouts yesterday really took its toll on my body. I hoped that today's workout would be a little more chill, but alas, it was an hour of pure physical torture. Save our souls!

Day 38 - Max Cardio Conditioning (Wednesday)

I did the workout by myself today, as my co-workers had to attend a meeting. Today was the first day I've really doubted my ability to keep up with these workouts. Month 2's workouts are so long (almost an hour), and I'm already totally spent after 30 minutes. I feel like I can't put in 100% for the last part. I realized that all I can really do is to just keep going, to finish it and to do my best.

Day 39 - Max Recovery (Thursday)

Max "Recovery" my a**. My muscles are still so sore from three days' worth of high interval training, that today's Max Recovery workout didn't really tickle my fancy. It was hard stretching and posing and balancing when my body just didn't want to be pushed further. I'm feeling a little negative about INSANITY at the moment, but maybe it's just because I'm very tired today, mentally and physically.

Day 40 - Max Interval Circtuit (Friday)

I did the workout at home tonight, and decided to have dinner before I started. I knew this workout was going to take it out of me, but luckily I had a lot of energy after having something to eat. Max Interval Circuit is total madness and sometimes I have to laugh because I know I must be looking ridiculous trying to keep up with the exercises. Glad this one is done for the week!

Day 41 - Max Interval Plyo (Saturday)

I don't even know how I motivated myself to exercise today, as I'm completely and utterly spent after this week. I would have liked to sleep in a little longer this morning, but I knew that if I kept procrastinating to do this workout I would regret having to do it in the afternoon. It's over now. My body is protesting this madness and I'm really looking forward to our Rest Day tomorrow. I really really need it.

I have to go hang the laundry right now, but I can barely lift up my arms high enough to type this post. I think only a full body massage can make me feel better right now. I wonder how I can coerce The Boyfriend into giving me one, because I sure as hell don't have the strength to physically force him.

Have a nice weekend!

Day 9 - What you hope your future will be like

Today's topic is very similar to Day 2's Where you would like to be in ten years. Although, including the word "hope" in the title, makes it a little bit easier, as that means I can basically write anything and "hope for the best".

Our futures are unknown, and we can have as many hopes, dreams and plans as we like, but I believe that in the end life will happen and we'll have to roll with the punches. That being said, I am a positive realist and I do have hopes and dreams for my future:

I hope that The Boyfriend and I will always be as happy and healthy as we are now.

I hope that everyone I love and care for will find true happiness in their lives, and that they will be safe and healthy.

I hope that I will continue to have a job that I love, and that I will achieve the professional goals that I have set for myself.

I hope that I'll get to see my family more often.

I hope that if I have children one day, that they'll be able to have a wonderful childhood, just like I was blessed to have.

I hope that we will have a beautiful house in a picturesque neighborhood.

I hope that there will be no more wars and so much hate in the world, and that more people will realize how important it is to live a more sustainable lifestyle.

What are your hopes for the future?

Day 8 - A moment you felt the most satisfied with your life

An exact moment? Geez. I don't know "the moment" I felt most satisfied with my life, but I've been feeling quite satisfied with the way things are going for quite some time.

Independence has always been very important to me, and I'm guessing I started feeling very satisfied with my life once I was able to start standing on my own two feet. I love the feeling of making my own money and spending it as I wish. I don't have to answer to anyone, and I can take care of myself.

Once I had my own job, my own apartment and had the means to travel the world, I was already extremely happy. Meeting The Boyfriend, my partner in crime, was a huge plus!

I don't think our lives need to be perfect to be satisfied with it. As long as we have goals to better it, and are taking active steps to reach them. Living a balanced, healthy lifestyle contributes greatly to my happiness and overall life satisfaction.

Although I'm very happy and content with my life right now, I think it's important to keep learning, growing and setting new goals for myself. My life is already amazing, but I'm just one of those people who will always strive to make it even better.

Are you satisfied with your life right now?

Day 7 - Your zodiac sign and if you think it fits your personality

I know many people don't actually believe in Astrology, but I totally do. I used to have many books about the zodiac signs, and loved checking my friends and family's signs to see if it fit their personalities; it's kinda scary how it does fit most people. Daily horoscopes, on the other hand, I think is total BS.

My birthday is on August 19th, which makes me a Leo. I am such a Leo, no doubt about it! Everything, the good and the bad, is very true about me.

Here is some of what astrology.com has to say about the Leo. I highlighted the words and phrases that I think especially describes me best:

"These folks are impossible to miss, since they love being center stage. Making an impression is Job One for Leos, and when you consider their personal magnetism, you see the job is quite easy. Leos are an ambitious lot, and their strength of purpose allows them to accomplish a great deal. The fact that these folks are also creative makes their endeavors fun for them and everyone else. It's quite common to see a Leo on stage or in Hollywood, since these folks never shy away from the limelight. They are also supremely talented and have a flair for the dramatic. Warmth and enthusiasm seems to seep from every Leo pore, making these folks a pleasure to be around. They do love pleasure! 

Leo is ruled by the Sun -- the center of the universe and the fuel for our being. In much the same way, Leos consider themselves indispensable and the center of the universe, and those who would tell them otherwise had better look out! Lions are outgoing, self-assured and have a tremendous zest for life. So what if the world revolves around them? There are worse role models, for sure. The Lion's enthusiasm is boundless, and along with that comes generosity of spirit and the determination to succeed. That focus may be construed as vanity and even bossiness at times, but Lions would say 'No way!' and continue along their regal path. Regardless of appearance, those born under this sign can be counted on for their loyalty and sense of honor. They are also decisive, intensely proud and wonderfully romantic. 

The element associated with Leo is Fire. Everything about the Lion's personality is hot, hot, hot. Those born under this sign are fearless and strong, which may be why Lions plunge in headfirst and let the chips fall where they may. While some would take to calling Lions status-conscious, these folks are truly warmhearted and want everyone to be happy. Hey, it's their kingdom, and happy campers make for a perfect peace. Further, it's the great gift of the Leo-born to be dynamic, forward-thinking and self-confident. These attributes certainly catch the attention of others, making Leos sought after by both friends and lovers. The Lion's charms extend to all, even to the children they dearly love. Yes, the pleasure principle is paramount to the Lion, and along those lines, Leos are great at spending money. Lions can't fathom an uncomfortable throne

Come play time, Leos are at their best. Those born under this sign enjoy fun and games both outdoors and in (and with a group). Lions are also a natural at the gym, where they can show their stuff to a crowd. The Leo lover is devoted, creative and almost too hot to handle! Since Leo rules the heart and back, however, overzealous Lions may have to take a deep breath and slow down a bit.

The great strengths of the Leo-born are their creativity, idealism and leadership. Lions don't lack for ambition, either, so they're likely to accomplish a lot -- and have fun while they're at it. Their warmth and loyalty ensures that others will enjoy the ride as well."

You can read more about your zodiac sign here. Do you believe in Astrology and what it says about you and your sign?

INSANITY: Day 29 to 34 (Week 5)

5 weeks done, 4 to go! I wish I can say that it's all downhill from here, but even though we've officially surpassed the halfway mark, I'm pretty sure that it's not going to be a breeze from here on out. According to my friends that have finished the INSANITY program, the second month is way harder than the first. Give me strength...

This week was called "Recovery Week", although I don't think I recovered from anything... It was nice doing a new workout, but we had to do the same one, Core Cardio & Balance, for 6 days in a row, which was kind of a bummer. By Thursday, I was ready for something else. But, although we did the same workout the entire week, each day was different in a way. Here are my updates for Week 5:

Day 29 - Core Cardio & Balance (Monday)

It was weird doing a new workout, since we've been doing the same set of workouts for the past month. I had that same feeling of not knowing what's gonna come next, and having to watch the screen most of the time to see how to do all the movements. Also, this workout was harder than I expected. Nothing "Recovery" about it...

Day 30 - Core Cardio & Balance (Tuesday)

Today was a little easier than yesterday. I knew what to expect and to take it a little easier. I think I pushed myself too hard yesterday and that I should give my body some time to recover. Not feeling as tired as I did yesterday.

Day 31 - Core Cardio & Balance (Wednesday)

Ugh! We were all so tired today after an exceptionally busy and draining day at work. Also, the humidity in Taipei has gotten worse which ups the sweat levels.

Day 32 - Core Cardio & Balance (Thursday)

The humidity has been a pain in my a** today. It really makes a big difference in how much energy we have. Because we can't use the airconditioners, it's really hot and humid while we're working out, which makes it so much harder. I don't know what we are going to do now that it's only going to just get hotter and hotter in Taipei...

Day 33 - Core Cardio & Balance (Friday)

I was so lazy today, and didn't look forward to the workout at all. It might also be because we've been doing the same one the entire week. I need a little variation in my life. I'm actually looking forward to the new set of workouts that we start with on Monday.

Day 34 - Core Cardio & Balance (Saturday)

It makes such a big difference being able to do this workout with the airconditioner on. Of course, at my apartment I can blast it as cold as I want. I also ate a little breakfast before doing the workout this morning, which made me feel so much better! Glad to have finished the Recovery Week!

Okay people, from Monday we start Month 2 of INSANITY. I'm really nervous, and haven't watched any of the workouts, so I have no idea what to expect. It's going to be a tough month, with the temperature and humidity rising in Taipei. I'm thinking of doing my workouts at home every day, so that I can use the A/C, but I know I'll miss working out with my co-workers. Hmmm... I'll just have to see how bad it gets and how many of us pass out...

Have a fun weekend, everyone! 

Day 6 - Write 30 interesting facts about yourself

As you might have noticed, I skipped Day 5. The topic, "A time you thought about ending your own life", is just not something that I have ever considered or even thought about. So let's move on to Day 6 where I'll be sharing 30 interesting facts about myself. Well, here we go with the 30 facts, you can decide if they're interesting...

1. I can't draw to save my life. My drawing skills stopped developing at around the age of 10, which means I still draw stick figures. I can color within the lines though, does that count?

2. I just adore old people, and enjoy spending time with them and listening to their stories.

3. I think puppies are cuter than babies. 

4. I have a very musical family, and appreciate almost all genres of music, depending on my mood.

5. My last name is in German, although I can't speak the language. I do understand some of it because it's quite similar to Afrikaans (my native language).

6. In high school, I won awards for being the fastest typist in school. Both my brothers, and my sister, won the exact same awards when they were in high school. Obviously, spirit fingers are in the family.

7. The Boyfriend and I rarely call each other by our first names. We have a handful of nicknames, with numerous variations, that we use, even during serious conversations.

8. I'm an annoying morning person, and am at my most productive before lunch time.

9. I can't watch Western or Science Fiction movies. Zzz...

10. I wear giant frog slippers at home, which I've had for 3 years. The Boyfriend and I call them "The Froggies". We have come up with an elaborate life story for them...

11. Traveling is my favorite thing to do, and so far I've been to 16 different countries. 

12. I'm an optimistic realist, if something like that existed.

13. I don't like soda drinks, and love drinking water.

14. I think my family is hilarious, and we should probably have been a traveling circus.

15. I can't go camping for more than one day. I'm a girly girl and I need my stuff.

16. English is my second language, which I learned in school, but I never really spoke English before I came to Taiwan to teach it. 

17. I had a very happy childhood, and feel very fortunate to have three siblings and amazing parents.

18. I'm not very sentimental with materialistic things. I just don't place so much value on "things". I will easily throw away stuff that others would probably hang on to.

19. My favorite ice cream flavor is cookies and cream.

20. I love reading, browsing, collecting and smelling books... Bookstores and libraries are my happy place.

21. I've lived in Taiwan for 5 years, but I can't speak Mandarin, only some general phrases. But I can usually pick up on what others are talking about. I do want to study it full time in the future though.

22. I like listening to gangster rap and vulgar hip hop music. I don't know why. Maybe because I'm usually a "good girl", and like to feel like a badass sometimes.

23. I was obsessed with playing "Grand Theft Auto" on the computer and Playstation as a teenager, and loved the feeling of driving over people and taking their money.

24. I love to eat and people are often surprised at how much or how often I can have a serious chow down session.

25. I shave my legs every other day, I can't go longer than that.

26. I'm terrified of snakes, spiders, heights and clowns.

27. I do really silly things to make The Boyfriend laugh.

28. I love spending time by myself, and don't need to be entertained by others.

29. I had very long hair as a young girl, down to my bum, and when my mom cut it the first time, she almost cried and proceeded to keep it.

30. I get cold easily, and if it was possible, I'd hibernate through the winter and never leave the house.

What do you have in common with me?

Day 4 - Your views on religion

Oh no, another tough topic today. I really dislike writing about religion on my blog, because I just think it's such a personal thing.

I grew up in a Christian family and went to our town's Dutch Reformed church and Sunday school every week. I didn't especially enjoy going to church, but it was part of my life, and I just did it anyway. I didn't always understand the preacher, and most of what he said kind of went over my head.

I did learn some good values at church and Sunday school; be respectful, be nice, help those in need, don't do to others that you don't want done to yourself, pray every day, be a good person... etc. Or maybe my parents taught me that, I'm not sure.

I'm going to be totally honest and say that I don't like the word "religion" and what it usually stands for; lots of rules that no normal person can possibly live up to, the violence that sometimes goes along with religion, the inability to accept others that don't believe in what you believe in. I'm sorry, but I don't see God in that way at all.

I believe that God is Love. I strive to be a good person, to treat others in the way I want them to treat me, to be kind, to uplift others and support them, to accept people for who they are and to live a good, positive life that inspires others. I believe that not everything in the Bible should be taken literally, as I believe it's a book filled with parables that teaches us moral lessons.

Bottom line is that I don't think you should have to tell people what you believe in, your actions and the person that you are should speak louder than words.

Day 3 - Your views on drugs and alcohol

Oooh, this might be a tricky subject to write about. First of all, whatever I write in this post, please don't be offended, or think that I judge anyone in any way. These are all my personal opinions, and might not be the same as your opinion. The quote, "Don't judge someone just because they sin differently than you" comes to mind. We all sin, just in different ways, so we really can't judge anyone for the choices they make. Honestly, I don't care what you do. How you spend your money and your Saturday nights are your choices.

Okay, let's get down to it. I don't think that drugs and alcohol fall in the same category. Yes, both can make you act a fool and lower your inhibitions, but drugs are illegal, alcohol is not. Although, I do think that alcohol should be illegal for some people... And drugs should be legal for some people. Not hardcore drugs, I don't tolerate that at all. I'm talking about Marijuana. I personally don't smoke, but I don't mind people who do. I just don't want to be in the same room as you or know anything about it.

Hardcore drugs, though, I don't like at all. The drug trade goes hand in hand with human trafficking, forced prostitution, illegal arms trade and violence. I just feel that nothing good comes from this, and that the world would be a better place without it.

As for alcohol, I think it's fine. I enjoy a drink or five with my friends and it can definitely be enjoyed the way it was intended if you keep moderation in mind. Also, I'm totally against drinking and driving and will usually be that annoying person at a gathering that will take your keys away from you and give you a lecture. (Which you'll thank me for the next day, of course.)

I'm curious to know what your view is on this topic?

INSANITY: Day 22 to 27 (Week 4)

After a lot pushing through and A LOT of sweating, the first month of INSANITY is done and dusted! I'm actually surprised that I haven't felt like I wanted to quit. Not once! You know what they say; it takes 21 days to develop a new habit, and I definitely have. Sometimes I feel out of sorts on a Sunday (which is the one day out of the week that we don't have a workout), and kind of want to cheat and do one anyway.

It feels good that exercise is a part of my lifestyle, and not something I have to motivate myself too much to do anymore. It was harder in the beginning, but now I can't imagine my day without a ridiculously insane workout.

The past week just flew by, and we were totally on top of it. Here are my daily updates from week 4:

Day 22 - Pure Cardio & Cardio Abs (Monday)

"I'm going to die!" "I can't do anymore!" "Aaaaah!" That was mostly what came out of our mouths today while working out and gasping for air. Pure Cardio is always a toughie and today wasn't any different. Sweating like a pig right now! Sexy...

Day 23 - Cardio Power & Resistance (Tuesday)

I went to bed really late last night, as I just had a million thoughts running through my head. I expected to wake up this morning feeling like crap after only 5 hours of sleep, but it turned out to be the opposite. I felt great and not tired at all. Weird! I ate a little more during lunch to have enough energy for my workout in the late afternoon, as I struggled a little yesterday on an empty stomach. Feeling great now!

Day 24 - Plyometric Cardio Circuit (Wednesday)

For some reason, I really like this specific workout and really pushed myself today. I'm feeling much stronger after 24 days, and that makes me feel so motivated to give my all.

Day 25 - Cardio Recovery (Thursday)

This is the "easy" workout of the bunch, and today we welcomed it with open arms. My legs do feel like jelly right now, and I know my bum will pay the price tomorrow after all those lunges and  squats.

Day 26 - Pure Cardio & Cardio Abs (Friday)

For some reason we couldn't get the sound of the DVD to work today, and did the first 10 minutes of the workout in complete silence. That was too weird though, and my co-worker scrambled to go and get us some music while we were working out. We ended up finding some Avril Lavigne and Rihanna tunes, which was kinda hilarious to listen to while doing Pure Cardio...

Day 27 - Plyometric Cardio Circuit (Saturday)

I slept until 10:30am this morning, which is normally not possible for me as my body is used to getting up at 6am every day, so I usually wake up early. It might be a sign that I needed some proper rest. I procrastinated before starting my workout though and finally finished it now, just in time for lunch.

We've officially finished the first month of INSANITY and I must say, it's a little bittersweet. I have gotten used to this set of workouts and, if it's possible, I think I might even miss them when we start with a new set of workouts in Month 2. 

Next week is called the "Recovery Week" and we'll be doing the Core Cardio & Balance workout for 6 days in a row. After that, Month 2 will have a whole new set of workouts, all containing the word "Max", as in "Max Interval Circuit", "Max Interval Plyo", "Max Cardio & Conditioning"... Yeah, that makes me feel "Max Scared" to say the least...

I'll take some Day 30 pics next week for my before and after photos, and hopefully after Day 60 my before and after pics will look good enough to post here. I do feel a lot stronger, and definitely more toned. I can see the biggest difference in my arms, abs and calves. My weight has stayed around the same, even though I've been eating a lot more to have enough energy for this craziness.

Day 27. Sorry the pic is a little grainy, I had to take it with my phone.

I hope everyone's having a great weekend! See you back here next week!

Firmoo Glasses GIVEAWAY

Firmoo glasses

Who doesn't like free stuff, right? As some of you might remember, I did a review on my sunglasses from Firmoo a while ago, and really only had good things to say about this company and their product. You can read my review here.

 

My Firmoo sunglasses

Well, I was pleasantly surprised when Firmoo contacted me about an opportunity for my readers to receive free glasses. Always one to spread the joy, I’m happy to share this with you. I know it sounds too good to be true, but this is for real. It is totally free! 

Frame + Lenses + Shipping = $0! 

Firmoo glasses

Firmoo has this to say about prescription eyeglasses:

“It is highly suggested by professional ophthalmologists that you should have a yearly eye exam and replace your glasses regularly to ensure your eye health. If your prescription has changed but you still wear the old prescription eyeglasses, you are in high-risk of deteriorating your vision.”

Even though I don't have to wear prescription glasses, I'm sure that lots of you do, and I thought you might like this opportunity to get some free eye wear.

So how does this work, you ask? Follow these simple steps:

1. This giveaway will start on April 16^th at 09:00am EST

2. At that time, go to this page http://www.firmoo.com/z/blogger-crazy-giveaway.html 

3. Find the free eye wear code and claim your free glasses

4. Firmoo will be giving away only a certain amount of free glasses every day

5. Share this giveaway on Facebook or Twitter for a chance to win a free pair of glasses every day.

That’s it! Good luck to you all, I hope you take full advantage of this exciting giveaway!

Disclaimer: All opinions of products mentioned in this post are 100% honest. This is a sponsored post.

Day 2 - Where you would like to be in ten years

In ten years I'll be 37. 37!?! Give me a second while my sudden heart palpitations calm down... Okay, maybe more than a second...

"Where do you see yourself in ten years?" That's probably the most exciting, and most terrifying question you can ask a person. Exciting, because it makes me think of all the wonderful things that still lie ahead for me; the places I'm going to travel to, the special days that I'll celebrate, the new adventures I'll embark on, and the opportunities that'll come my way. 

Terrifying, because I know that it will take a lot of courage, ambition and hard work to reach most of my goals by then. Also, I'm not sure if I know exactly where I WANT to be then, as there are many huge things that The Boyfriend and I have not 100% decided on. Do we want kids? How many? Where will we live? Career paths?

I don't want to delve too deep into this topic, as I know that I'll probably change my mind of where I'll want to be by the time I'm 37. But, for the sake of today's topic, I'll sketch my dream life for you, totally based off of how I feel right now. Like, today.

I see myself married, with maybe a kid or two. Definitely two dogs! We live in a beautiful house that we designed ourselves, somewhere close to the beach, where the weather is always nice. The Boyfriend, by now The Husband, has an awesome job which allows us to travel all over the world frequently. I own a successful business, either a lovely little cafe, or a cute boutique. Of course, we are also happy and healthy, and living the dream.

But, this might turn out to be just that; a dream. Although, when I think about it now, all of this is not totally out of reach for us, as The Boyfriend and I are both very hardworking and ambitious people. We view the world as a place full of opportunity and we're not scared to try new things, take on the unknown, and work hard for what we want.

Honestly, I know we can do basically anything we put our minds to. But, I'll guess I'll have to wait and see what happens, and it really all depends on what I dream about tomorrow, and the day after that. The world is our oyster, and I prefer having my future unwritten.

Lovely Blog Award!

Pretty.Random.Things. just received another reward! Wow, I didn't even have a speech prepared...

A very special thank you to DIY Ideas for giving me the Lovely Blog Award. I feel so honored! You can read her very sweet post about my blog here.

I hope everyone's having a wonderful week! Happy Hump Day!

Day 1 - Your current relationship, or how single life is

I'm relieved that I'm starting off the 30-Day Writing Challenge with a very joyous topic. The Boyfriend. You know I'd be writing about him every day if I could. But who would read that!? Me and... my mom? 

Well, as most of you know, I've been in a relationship with my American boy for quite some time, in fact, we just celebrated our 4-year anniversary a week ago. Our 4 years together have been extremely blessed and filled with love and laughter, and we couldn't be happier.

The secret to our successful relationship? I think it's a mixture of many things. Of course, we love each other to death, we're best friends, we are silly and laugh a lot, we are loyal, and we have the utmost respect for one another. We are each other's biggest cheerleaders and understand the importance of honesty and compromise. Do I really need to name more? I know my brothers are throwing up in their mouths a little right now...

Of course, we are at that stage in our relationship were everyone asks us when we'll get engaged and married. To them I say: "It's none of your damn beeswax!" Just kidding! Be patient my friends. All in good time. All I can say is that there will be a spectacular celebration somewhere in the southern hemisphere before 365 days have passed...

30-Day Writing Challenge

I saw Robin, previously from Our Carolina Days, and now posting on At Four O'Clock do this 30-Day Writing Challenge on her blog a while back, and I made a mental note to take it on when I have some time. I've done these types of challenges before, and even though I know it's a lot of work and requires a lot of effort, I'm going to try it.

Maybe I won't be able to blog every day, but I'll try my best to post as often as possible. Here are the topics for the 30-Day Writing Challenge:

Day 1 - Your current relationship, or how single life is
Day 2 - Where you would like to be in ten years
Day 3 - Your views on drugs and alcohol
Day 4 - Your views on religion
Day 5 - A time you thought about ending your own life
Day 6 - Write thirty interesting facts about yourself
Day 7 - Your zodiac sign and if you think it fits your personality
Day 8 - A moment you felt the most satisfied with your life
Day 9 - What you hope your future will be like
Day 10 - Discuss your first love and first kiss
Day 11 - Put your music player on shuffle and write ten songs that pop up
Day 12 - Bullet your whole day
Day 13 - Somewhere you would like to move or visit
Day 14 - Your earliest memory
Day 15 - Your favorite Tumblrs
Day 16 - Your views on mainstream music
Day 17 - Your highs and lows of this past year
Day 18 - Your beliefs
Day 19 - Disrespecting your parents
Day 20 - How important you think education is
Day 21 - One of your favorite shows
Day 22 - How have you changed in the past two years?
Day 23 - Give pictures of five guys who are famous who you find attractive
Day 24 - Your favorite movie and what it's about
Day 25 - Someone who fascinates you and why
Day 26 - What kind of person attracts you
Day 27 - A problem that you have had
Day 28 - Something that you miss
Day 29 - Goals for the next thirty days
Day 30 - Your highs and lows of this month

This should be interesting, and maybe a little tough sometimes, but I'm looking forward to it. Let me know if you want to do this writing challenge with me, and feel free to post a link to your site in the comments below.

Happy Monday!

INSANITY: Day 15 to 20 (Week 3)

Are we here already!? Three weeks have flown by so far, and I'm happy to say that we are still going strong. 

Here are my updates from week 3:

Day 15 - Fit Test (Monday)

I was excited to do the "Fit Test" today, as I was curious whether I've made any progress so far. I managed to better all my numbers, which I'm super happy about. I had to push myself so hard, and hopefully I'll be able to do even better in the next one, which will be in two weeks.

Day 16 - Plyometric Cardio Circuit (Tuesday)

Ouchy in my legs! I'm so sore today. Yesterday's "Fit Test" really took it out of me. I enjoyed this workout, even though the last sets of exercises are just out of control! Also, I haven't been sweating this much in a while. I thought you should know that...

Day 17 - Pure Cardio & Cardio Abs (Wednesday)

To say I was dreading today's workouts, would be the understatement of the year. Our long weekend in Taiwan kicked off today, and I would rather have passed out on the couch when I got home after a long day at work, than having to do endure this torture. I don't even know how I got through it.

Day 18 - Cardio Recovery (Thursday)

As we have a long weekend in Taiwan, I did the "Cardio Recovery" workout at home this morning, much to the amusement of The Boyfriend. He, of course, was lying on the couch, watching me sweat and stretch by myself. This was the first time he's seen an INSANITY workout, and kept making remarks of how "easy" it is. I had to tell him over and over that "Cardio Recovery" is not what the other workouts are like, and that this one doesn't really count. I don't think he believes me...

Day 19 - Cardio Power & Resistance (Friday)

I managed to persuade The Boyfriend to join me in today's workout. We just finished it, and it's 22:15pm. I almost skipped today's workout, as we were out of town and came back exhausted. When The Boyfriend agreed to do it with me, I had more motivation though. It was fun working out with him, and I'm pretty sure that he believes me now that the INSANITY workouts are freakin' insane! He's passed out on the couch now...

Day 20 - Plyometric Cardio Circuit (Saturday)

I should have had some breakfast before my workout, and had absolutely no energy to go all out today. I don't think this was my best performance, although I did do everything, maybe with not as much enthusiasm as one should... All I can say is that I'm damn happy it's Saturday and that tomorrow is a rest day!

Overall, this week's workouts went well. I'm feeling stronger and my form is definitely getting better. Also, now that I know all the workouts quite well, and don't have to look at how they are doing all the movements, and I can focus on going faster and doing more repetitions.

I'm proud of myself for doing all the workouts this week, even though we have a 4-day long weekend in Taiwan and I felt pretty lazy. I knew it was going to be harder to motivate myself, but I did them all and now I feel wonderful for completing it.

The highlight of this week was definitely having The Boyfriend join me for Friday's workout. Finally het got to experience what INSANITY is about, and even though he's already fit, he was sweating like a horse, and barely breathing by the end of the workout. This sight made me feel wonderful, and I had to give him the old "I told you so!"   line, after he went on about how "easy" it is on Thursday morning.

One more week to go and we're at the end of the 1st month. How crazy is that!? 

Have a fun weekend everyone!

My Spring/Summer 2013 Lust List

I don't know why, but every year when spring arrives, so does my insatiable appetite to shop. I'm not sure what causes this, but every chance I get I want to browse my favorite online shopping sites or go do some damage at my most-loved stores around Taipei City. I have no control!

I'm lusting after so many items this year, and decided to make a list of what I would like to buy myself. And what I don't get to buy myself... well, my birthday is on August 19th (*wink).

Michael Kors Rose Gold watch 

I bought my gold Michael Kors watch back in November 2011, and have been wearing it almost every day since. Because I love it so much, I've decided to get it in rose gold as well. Just gorgeous!

butter LONDON "Sweetie Shop" 2013 collection

"Sweetie Shop" is my favorite spring/summer nail polish collection this year, and I really want to get them all. Maybe not the yellow one...

Keds Classic white sneakers 

I love me some sneakers, and need to get a new pair of comfy shoes for work anyway, so I'm thinking of purchasing my first pair of Keds this year.

Tory Burch Emmy flat thong sandals

I have these flats in tan, and wear them to death. I would love to get them in black as well.

Tory Burch Robinson Spectator Zip Continental wallet

I desperately need a new wallet, and this one is just too pretty to pass up! I love the pastel color, it's so girly.

Céline New Audrey sunglasses

I've been drooling over these for a long time, and this might just be the year that I actually buy them. I just can't decide if I want them in black or brown/tortoiseshell though. What do you think?

7 For All Mankind roll up shorts 

I buy a new pair of white shorts almost every year. I would love to own a nice pair that I can wear for more than a couple of years. Loving this pair from 7 For All Mankind.

Urban Decay NAKED Basics palette

I'm not a huge eye shadow lover, and don't wear it a lot. But when I do, I like to keep it simple and natural. I adore the original Urban Decay NAKED palette, and really want to get this NAKED Basics palette as well.

Dainty gold filled infinity bracelet

I love wearing a dainty gold bracelet in spring and summer, and I think this year I'll get this infinity bracelet from etsy.com So cute!

TOMS Earthwise grey woman's vegan classics

I'm such a big fan of TOMS! They're comfortable, cute and when you buy a pair, they will actually donate a pair of shoes to someone in need. I want to get a pair from the "vegan" collection this time.

What's on your lust list this year?