Life Changes

We all know of times where we realise someone or something no longer serves us. But why can it be so hard to let go? I’m currently going through a major transition in my life, lifestyle wise, career wise, and friendship wise.

In particular, I am struggling with the idea of cutting people who no longer serve me, out of my life. People who once made me happy and were beneficial are now different. It’s hard when you know someone for so long and have so many great memories with them. But in the end, I have learnt that certain people have disappointed me and no longer deserve my time and energy. It’s tough because you want to see the person the way the way they used to be. You believe they can change and you want them to stay around. But at the end of the day, deep down, you know they aren’t worth trying so hard for.

Lifestyle wise I have just moved cities to pursue a university degree. Where I am now is full of opportunity and I know it’s where I need to be. But it is sad to say goodbye to a place you know, a place where all your friends and family are.

I know this transition will make me a stronger person, and I know all this will be beneficial for me. I will learn a lot, and am currently learning a lot. I’m learning that I need to put myself first right now. I need to work on being more independent, focussed and positive. This is a time for me to better myself as a person and flourish.

Life’s tough, there’s no question about it. There are many ups and downs coming my way, but it’s about how I handle it. Here’s to trying to survive another year and develop as a person.

Bella xx

Summer Photo Shoot 2017

Models: Isabella Petroff, Meg Myers

Photographer: Jack Myers

Makeup Artist: Mirror Mirror Makeup Artistry

Latest Skin Care Favourites

Over the past few months I have been trialling a number of different skin care products in the hope of finding a routine I love. I have found over the past few years of dealing with breakouts and hormonal teenage skin that natural products work heaps better for my skin. My latest routine includes products from the brands Sukin and Lush. I love that both these brands are vegan and natural. They both aim to keep our bodies and environment healthy.

Brand: Sukin

Super Greens Detoxifying Facial Scrub

I love that this face wash is gentle on my skin, but it has a big impact on my complexion and appearance. This gentle wash contains spirulina and parsley to not only brighten the complexion, but improve the texture of the skin. Jojoba beads and bamboo gently exfoliate and polish the skin. It also contains pineapple and liquorice root extracts to to help balance oils and tone the skin.

Oil Balancing Pore Refining Facial Scrub

I will alternate between using this scrub and the one above, however, tend to use this one more when my face is feeling greasy and pores are clogged. Jojoba beads and bamboo charcoal gently polish the skin, keeping pores clear of impurities. The charcoal removes excess oils and toxins, aiding in balancing the complexion. Willowherb, rooibos tea and coconut oil soothe and hydrate the skin.

Hydrating Mist Toner

This alcohol-free toner uses rosewater and chamomile to soothe and purify the skin. I use this after cleansing, before moisturising. And often before applying makeup too. It instantly refreshes and cools my skin. Perfect for when my skin is feeling dry, stressed or overheated.

Restoring Argan Oil +

This oil presents rich antioxidants, vitamins and essential fatty acids to nourish the skin. Argan, rosehip, maracuja, jojoba, sunflower and wheat germ oils really help to moisturise the skin. This oil also helps to reduce the signs of aging and improve skin texture. I like to apply this before bed so that it can sink into my skin overnight.

Oil Balancing Anti-Pollution Facial Masque

I will usually use this mask about once a week to help cleanse and clear out my pores. After using this my face feels firm, clean, healthy and glowing. It contains Bamboo charcoal which assists in the absorbtion of impurities and toxins to deeply cleanse the skin. Rooibos tea, aloe vera and willowherb revitalise and refresh blemish prone skin. Bilberry, quince and pomegranate extracts aid in tightening pores and leaving a balanced complexion. Avocado, coconut and rosehip oils leave the skin feeling moisturised and nourished.

Brand: Lush

Oatifix Face Mask

I also use this mask about once a week, but will use it more frequently if my skin is particularly dehydrated. This nourishing mask is made with fresh bananas and illipe butter to moisturise dry skin. Oatmeal, ground almonds and kaolin mildly exfoliate, leaving the face soft, supple and moisturised.

Brand: Olay 

Olay Moisturising Cream

If my skin is feeling very dry and dehydrated and I need something that packs a bit more moisture, I will reach for this moisturiser by Olay. It is said to provide nourishment for up to 12 hours and improves smoothness to promote youthful looking skin. I can put this on before bed and notice a positive difference in my skin by the morning.

Hope these recommendations can help you in finding some great skin care products.

Bella x

Vegan Mini Quiche

Ingredients

* Vegan puff pastry

* 350g firm silken tofu

* 3 tbsp hummus

* 1 grated carrot

* 1 grated zucchini

* 1 cup chopped spinach

* 420g corn (1 large can)

*1/2 cup chopped mushrooms

* 2 diced tomatoes

* Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Preheat your oven to 250°C.

Using a fork, mash your tofu in a large bowl, removing and large lumps. You are aiming for a cottage cheese-like look.

Add your hummus and various vegetables, and stir until combined. Add salt and pepper as needed.

Cut out circles of pastry to fit into a muffin tin and spoon your tofu mixture into the pastry cases.

Bake for 15-20 minutes.

Bella x