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DIY EGG WHITE FACE MASK

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Remove blackheads with this peel-off mask containing ingredients found right at home!

Blackheads are dark spots found on your skin that form when skin produces sebum. Sebum is a natural lubricant for your skin and hair to prevent both from drying out. If you have naturally oily skin, you typically have larger pores, so when sebum moves up to the surface of your skin, air enters. Sebum contains melanin, which turns dark when exposed to open air, aka your blackhead.

Blackheads are NOT dirt and scrubbing does NOT remove them. What does? You can try pore strips for your nose, but some of us (like myself) have blackheads on our cheeks and forehead. When I tried this egg white mask, it was a total game changer on the overall complexion and feel of my skin.

This egg white mask will help reduce sebum and tighten pores, which will also help with the elasticity of your skin and slow down the wrinkle process. I also like to squirt a bit of lemon juice in the mix since it helps fight off acne causing bacteria and brightens skin tone.

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DIY Egg White Face Mask:

  • If you can steam your face that would be an ideal first step, either with a face steamer or right after a hot shower.
  • Place egg white into a small bowl.
  • Squirt 2-3 drops of lemon juice into the bowl and whisk.
  • Apply the mixture with a face brush (I used a foundation brush).
  • Immediately take 1-ply toilet paper and teat into strips. Apply all over face.
  • Once complete, brush excess egg white onto face over the tissue.
  • Leave on for 15-20 minutes.
  • Once completely dry, gently peel off the tissue in an upward direction (you’ll be able to see all the gunk you pulled out of your skin).
  • Rinse with warm water and splash with cold water to close pores.
  • Apply moisturizer and TA-DA! Brightened and blackhead-free skin!

My latest post for Beauty Echoes Magazine! Click HERE for more!

THE BODY SHOP: SATSUMA FESTIVE PICKS

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What I love about gifting bath products is that we all bathe (at least I hope so) which means everyone can appreciate a good-smelling, bath-related gift.

The Body Shop has come out with their festive picks again for the holiday season and I am all over it. These pretty products come pre-packaged in a nice festive box so essentially, just put a bow on it and call it a day (all about that easy route).

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If you know someone who has a hard time opening their eyes in the morning or falls asleep while eating their breakfast, you need to introduce them to satsuma. Did you know that the reason we typically drink orange juice in the AM is because the odour of citrus ignites our brain to make us feel more energized and refreshed? The more you know..

That is exactly what the scent of satsuma does, it’s the alternative to coffee. 😉

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Festive box contains:

– Satsuma Shower Gel 250 ml
– Satsuma Body Butter 50 ml
– Satsuma Body Polish 75 ml (my personal fav, love a good exfoliant, especially in the winter)
– Satsuma Soap 100 g
– Orange Mini Bath Lily

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The entire package is $25, which is a great price-point when you’re giving five gifts in one. Plus, you’ll be giving back! The Body Shop has teamed up with War Child and with every purchase of a Festive Picks box, they will grant education funds in war-torn areas. Last Christmas they raised $300,000 which helped to build new schools in Nepal, Honduras, India and Guana. It’s amazing to think that a the price of a small house in the suburbs could give 700 children an education.

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MY FIRST HALF-MARATHON!

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I realize my half-marathon was almost one month ago and I haven’t said a peep about it on my blog. I’M SO SORRY! October and November have been incredibly hectic and for an entire month I’ve been trying to figure out a routine since there were a lot of changes that went on. Needless to say. I’M BACK!

For those of you who follow my on Instagram, you know I successfully completed my very first Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Half-Marathon in 2hrs and 14min. 🙂

photo (77) I wasn’t so much nervous before the race, more anxious to get going. I remember the first couple kilometers I had a constant smile on my face, which may have looked incredibly creepy now that I think about it. I felt happy to be doing something for the first time and to know that this was a challenge I signed myself up for, not knowing what to expect.

Looking around at the start of the race, I appreciated the pretty Toronto scenery, the athletes who were all there to complete a common goal, supporters who froze their butts cheering from the sidelines and most importantly, I loved knowing that for the next couple hours, nothing mattered but being present in this moment.

Ahhhh, I was in my element and it was blissful. Or so I thought. Around 13k was when all the fun and games and hype of the race started to decline, the struggle got REAL.

When I was training I’ve never ran the full 21k without stopping (I guess you can say I ended up just winging it). In the middle of the race I realized it has been a couple hours since I ate breakfast. I could feel my stomach start to rumble, a slightly uncomfortable feeling especially for a runner. Wasn’t sure what to do about it, I couldn’t just detour to a hotdog stand (although, the idea did cross my mind ). Luckily for me I came across these lifesavers..

gels_detail_big_419x171_13_24_performance_gel_latte_caPOWERGEL!!! Wasn’t sure what these were but saw people sucking them back so I thought, may as well give it a try and see what happens. I grabbed a couple from the volunteers handing them out (who were all so amazing and supportive along the race), opened it up and let the double latte flavour work its magic. It felt good to digest something flavoured and textured, there is only so much gato-sauce or water you can consume before it become bland and old news. In moments, the gel settled in my stomach and I was no longer hungry PLUS I had more energy. SMALL WIN!

The last 3K was the hardest but absolute best. I could feel my body get heavier, legs aching, cold air getting harder to breathe in but, I was so close to the finish line! The final stretch came nearer, I could hear cheering getting louder, saw the red Scotiabank finish line banner getting closer and before I knew it, I crossed the finish line! I smiled to myself, looked around and took in the moment. I did it.

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After the race my mom gave me a huge hug, told me how proud she was and (like the amazing mother she is) took me out for Thai food. Pretty sure I ate my weight in noodles and rice that afternoon. My body felt great after the race, I think I was one of the lucky ones. My legs ached for a bit that night, but I woke up the next morning perfectly fine.

Look! Even 7,128th place gets a medal. 😉

10687098_1552123005023941_3425950704027357690_n I now want to take a moment to appreciate the existence of a few supporters that got me through this experience. My mother (obviously) who was there to film and take photos. Her video below. In the beginning you see a glimpse of me for a brief second and then she zooms in on a clown who took my spotlight. Whatever, over it.

Big thank you to my cousin Melissa who stood outside in the cold to cheer me on and made an awesome sign. My friends who texted me prior to the race wishing me luck, Titika for providing my Wendy Crops and Marathon Jacket and last but not least – Britney Spears, Ariana Grande and Keith Urban for pushing me further and getting me through the race. Couldn’t have done it without you all.

This was such an amazing experience and I can’t wait to do it all over again in May. I’ll be heading to OTTAWA for my next big race. Details of that coming soon. 😉

CONDE NAST’S YOUNGEST EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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Fan girl moment. Had to share this video by Forbes who interviewed my idol Eva Chen. She speaks the truth of what it’s REALLY like to work in the fashion and magazine industry. Couldn’t have put it better myself.

“There are aspects of it that are more glamorous that comes in bursts, they’re like exclamation points when the rest of the sentence is pretty much what you expect.”

SIGNS YOU WERE ALWAYS MEANT TO BE A WRITER

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I read a post on Thought Catalog called, “17 Signs You Were Always Meant To Be A Writer“ and wanted to share five of my favourite points (all are soooooo true):

1. You know the pure ecstasy of filling out the last page in a journal and retiring it to the sacred area you store your other weathered-down journals. (Furthermore, you know the pure ecstasy of, then, opening the first page of a new journal and how it represents a whole new world of possibility.)

2. After a few days of not writing, you start to become irritated, frustrated, and you have this sensation of being emotionally backed-up. Once you start writing—after, presumably, procrastinating the writing for minimum two hours—you suddenly feel freer, lighter, and more at ease.

3. If someone pulls out a quote of your writing to compliment your writing skills, you fall in love with them a little bit in that moment.

4. You have never let your life be easy. You have willingly sludged through your past pain, welcomed in breakdowns, and have never allowed yourself to become complacent or mediocre. Contentment is not a workable muse for a writer.

5. Your entire life has been unconventional and you’ve always willingly chosen the path least likely, even if it ostracized you many times. And yes, maybe it has been lonely, but every lonely night has led you to a deeper understanding of what it means to be human. And, funny enough, this is exactly what you’re always writing about anyway.

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Early Morning Beauty Essentials For Women On The Go

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Exciting news!!

I started writing for Beauty Echoes Magazine!! I feel so lucky to be able to share my voice on a creative platform and to work with a team who share similar passions and interests as mine. My co-worker Rachel was nice enough to surprise me with a clipping of the post (thaaanks girl) – hope you enjoy!!

Click HERE to read the post in its entirety or if you can squint and read the below clipping..that works too.

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I’M OFFICIALLY 24 – HERE’S EVERYTHING I WANT TO ACCOMPLISH THIS YEAR

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If you remember, last year I set goals of everything I wanted to achieve at 23. This is how I did:

1. I WILL move to New York City. Williamsburg, Brooklyn preferably.

…It’s actually laughable at how impossible this was yet, I still thought it was achievable. First step: Need to marry super handsome and successful American man (flexible on the handsome).

2. I WILL get my first full-time PAID job.

…Couldn’t be happier or more proud.

3. I WILL eat healthier.

…I started taking vitamins, cut down on alcohol consumption and learned to make delicious, nutritious meals. Pat on the back for me.

4. I WILL admit and apologize when I’m wrong.

…I’m getting better. I’ll roll my eyes when apologizing, but I’m apologizing nonetheless. Take what you can get.

5. I WILL (not only) shake-hands with new people I meet, but genuinely try to get to know them. I want to ask as many people who influence me to give me a list of their favourite books, songs and movies so I can introduce myself to new ways of thinking and get to know the people I love a little more.

…I asked EVERYONE for a list. They probably thought I was nosey for asking, but I got to know the inner workings of how people thought and why they are the way they are based on this method. It changed the way I looked at certain people and opened my eyes to a ton of awesome books, songs and movies I would have never chose on my own.

Thanks 23, you were great, but I’m ready to crumple up the rough draft and start a fresh edited, more polished page. That being said…

I’M OFFICIALLY 24!!

*insert confetti dropping and annoying birthday horn sounds here*

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Here are 5 goals I WILL achieve while I am 24!

1. I WILL become more confident.

2. I WILL take on a leadership role.

3. I WILL push myself to achieve more than I ever thought possible.

4. I WILL go to a foreign place I’ve never been before.

5. I WILL be smarter with my money. Moving out would be great and all, but for the next year I’m giving up on this whole ‘moving out’ deal (sobs, so many sobs). It’s just not going to happen and I have to be real with my expectations. As a result, I’m being smart with my money and saving it.

UGH, adult decisions. I don’t know how I feel about them. Will eat this entire chocolate cake and let you know later. Until then, to all my friends, family and random people on Facebook who said thoughtful words, gave me special cards, photos, gifts, texts, phone calls, cakes, dinners, etc, I truly felt so loved on my birthday. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. xo

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Tips to avoid becoming stressed or overwhelmed

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Here’s the latest blog post I wrote for Lotus Leaf Style! 🙂

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When deadlines and due dates are prominent in your work schedule, you rarely have time for yourself. The thrill of a busy office can keep you on your toes, but let’s take a moment to look at the state of your chipped nails and how the only new bags you’re carrying, are the ones under your eyes. #HotMess

Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or high levels of anxiety when it comes to deadlines or stressing whether you’re even doing a good job. You have high expectations of yourself and your work, but if you want to be more productive, you need to be selfish, take yourself away for a moment and concentrate on you!

Here are a few tips that can help you de-stress in times in need:

1) Learn to say “NO!”

As I previously mentioned, being selfish can be one of the best things you can do for yourself. Whether your neighbour is asking to help paint their garage this weekend or your demanding boyfriend/girlfriend wants you to go out of your way to see them, if you genuinely don’t want to – DON’T! When overwhelmed, adding MORE tasks to your list should be avoided. You need time for yourself so, lighten the burden when necessary.

2) Get some Zzz’s.

SLEEP IS CRUCIAL FOR PRODUCTIVITY! For me, once it hits midnight, I power down and force myself to close my computer, turn my cell phone off and go to bed. A few extra hours of work when you’re exhausted could lead to misspelt emails or reading over important information. Seriously, go to bed.

3) Eat your daily dose of nutrition.

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, you crave copious amounts of ice cream and chips to make you feel better. To boost your mood the healthy way, nutritious meals will ultimately help you out! Plan your meals ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about ‘what to make for lunch/dinner.’ Food such as salmon has omega-3 which boosts brain function and avocado, which contain healthy fats to make you feel full for a longer period of time. Also, TAKE YOUR VITAMINS! Go for a multivitamin paired with your breakfast or just keep a bottle on your desk. If you lack vitamins, such as the B12 vitamin (found in animal products such as dairy and meat), you feel tired, stressed or weak. Talk to your doctor on what vitamins you need to take, it’s a BIG help when it comes to how you think, function and feel.

4) Keep in touch with your friends.

It’s important to stay in touch with people you love. In an office setting you act professional, greet everyone with a handshake and keep a constant smile on your face but sometimes – you only want to wear sweatpants, talk about The Real Housewives and laugh uncontrollably with your girlfriends over a bottle of wine and a fancy cheese platter. Making time for friends and family is crucial, it will prevent you from becoming a workaholic hermit.

5) Sometimes, it’s ok to procrastinate.

One quote I live by is from Ellen Degeneres, “procrastination is not a problem. It is the solution. It’s the universe’s way of saying stop, slow down, you move too fast.” I’m not saying this is an excuse to ALWAYS procrastinate, but every couple hours take a moment to get your mind off work. Go on Pinterest, look at pretty photos, inspirational quotes, shirtless pictures of Ryan Gosling, etc. Whatever you do, take a break once and awhile.

6) Reward yourself.

You’ve had a hard week, go get yourself some frozen yogurt with extra peanut butter pieces. You deserve it.

When it all comes down to it, you’re only human. Trust your instincts and continue to do your absolute best. If all else fails, remember…

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September 2014 Favourites

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One.
Bath & Body Works Country Chic Shower Gel, $12.50

I’m not too picky when it comes to shower gels, they just need to lather well, clean my body and leave my skin smelling hella-amazing. This one from B&B has been a favourite this month and it smells like a mix of lemon, raspberry and amber wood. I approve.

Two.
G.R.L – Vacation

We all know I’m a lover of all-girl pop groups. It’s a guilty pleasure. The song “Vacation” by G.R.L has been on repeat throughout the month of September. It’s a good song to get you dancing in the morning.

Three.
Stila Stay All Day 10-in-1 HD Beauty Balm, $38

You’re technically supposed to apply this balm underneath foundation, but I simply wear it on its own. It’s tinted, lightweight and it doesn’t look or feel like you’re wearing anything at all. Great to slab on every morning for a nice light coverage, although I’d recommend a light foundation or concealer overtop if you need more coverage.

Four.
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

A classic read. I know this novel is meant for the grade school literacy level, but it’s been entertaining me quite nicely on my train rides to and from work.

Five.
Marc Anthony Repairing Macadamia Oil Treatment, $10.99

With my fingers, I run a couple drops into my hair after I shower and it leaves it smelling like coconut heaven. This oil is super moisturizing and contains bamboo extract which controls frizz, a life saver for the humid weather we’ve been having in September.

Six.
Maybelline Illegal Length Mascara in Blackest Black, $6.94

This has to be one of my favourite mascaras…..ever. Which says a lot because I’ve tried EVERYTHING! I neeeeeeeed length, and this tube not only lengthens but separates lashes in only a couple coats. Great if you’re rushing out the door, which is me, always.

Seven.
Rebook Sport Essential Badge Cap, $18

I bought this cap mostly for running, but I’ve also been styling it with skirts or dresses to give off an athletic, feminine vibe. I think this sort of style suits my personality the best and I’ve been loving it for September.

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Eight.
Sisley Botanical D-TOX Detoxifying Night Treatment, $245

YIKES! I know this is a pricey little number and honestly, it’s not really worth what it costs, but I do love it. It’s a luxurious cream that seeps into skin, smells fresh and one pump is all you need to cover your entire face. I have naturally dry skin and I notice a big difference when it comes to the treatment helping me achieve a dewey glow when I wake up since ingredients like sunflower oil revitalizes and lavender oil balances and soothes while I sleep.