Summer Shoes

It's almost SUMMER! And with that comes the wonderful joy of sandals - painting your toenails, sliding on those adorable shoes, and getting that awesome tan on your feet. I am looking forward to it!

Now, we were having some brilliant warm weather, but all of a sudden, it's cold, rainy, and dismal again. But, if anything, this rather depressing change of weather is making me pine for summer shoes even more! Hopefully the weather turns around soon, even if just for my sanity. A nice flip flop tan would be nice too :)

That being said, I've been browsing online, on one of my favourite clothing websites ever - modcloth.com - and fell in love with shoe after shoe after shoe. There is some seriously adorable footwear up for grabs! Here are some of my personal favourites.

Summer Shoes by thelightningboltscar featuring ankle wrap sandals

Ankle wrap sandals
62 CAD - modcloth.com

Wedge heels
36 CAD - modcloth.com

Ankle strap sandals
31 CAD - modcloth.com

Ankle wrap sandals
52 CAD - modcloth.com

Ankle strap sandals
29 CAD - modcloth.com

Which ones do you like out of these? Feel free to leave a message in the comments :)

Fingers crossed for warmer weather, and a chance to buy some of these lovely shoes!

-Hannah

WISHLIST: Closet Staples

There are always those couple of clothing items that you just couldn't live without - for me, right now, that's my plain black cami and turquoise cardigan. There are, however, a few items that I am in dire need of! Unfortunately, clothes that you NEED are always way less fun to buy than clothes that you WANT. But hey. It's gotta be done, I suppose.

1. Plain black flats. I have coloured and patterned flats, but have yet to buy a pair of simple black ones - ones that will go with any outfit, everyday or dressed up. I just get so drawn to colourful shoes!
2. Black & white v-necks. I feel as if some good simple fitted v-necks will be an excellent asset to match with high-waisted skirts or colourful cardigans. Another boring one... maybe I'll go for solid coloured ones instead, then at least it's a COLOUR :)
3. Skinny jeans. Now, this one may be a bit trickier. I used to have the best pair, but they got all worn from the dryer. So now I'm hunting for another pair or two, but I'd forgotten how tricky it is to find a pair that fits well, especially on my rather short legs! I plan on visiting American Eagle, they always have awesome jeans.
4. Shoulder shrug. Just one of those cropped, short-sleeved cardigans that can be worn in the summer. Do any of you have recommendations for where these can be found?
5. And lastly, more nerd clothing. Not a necessity, I suppose, but enlarging my geek clothing collection would be a lot of fun! Maybe some nerdy skirts? A shirt or two?

And that's my nice and boring wishlist! I have other wishes, of course - things like pleated skirts and floral dresses and high heels - but it is important to stock up on the boring necessities once in a while. It's just so much more fun to shop for things you want, not need. Oh well!

What are some clothing items you just couldn't live without?

-Hannah

Star Trek, and Life in General

I was feeling the need to write a blog post, but no single topic came to mind. So here's my take on Star Trek: Into Darkness, plus a little life update.

Click pictures for larger size

First of all, Star Trek: Into Darkness. SPOILER ALERT. 

I. Loved. It.

Some Benedict Beauty

Honestly. I am so glad I finally saw it! The effects, firstly, were stunning. Seriously breath-taking. The movie was extremely pleasing to the eye, and incredibly realistic with under water shots and space scenes and all that. It was all so screen-shottable. Is that a word? I'm making it one.

The acting was also incredible - one of the main reasons I went and saw the movie in the first place was for Benedict Cumberbatch (I even wore my Sherlock shirt to accentuate this), and he did not disappoint. He played an amazing villian; he was believable and downright sinister. Zachary Quinto and Chris Pine, also, have special places in my heart, and I thought they did an amazing job. And can I just say, Chris Pine's eyes are GORGEOUS. 

Wait a moment while I get lost in Pine's eyes

Here's a bit of villian-hero dialogue that will give you chills:
"I am better."
"At what?"
"Everything."

And, my ultimate favourite Star Trek character, Scotty, was wonderful, as I knew he would be! I absolutely adore Simon Pegg, in Hot Fuzz, Run Fatboy Run, Shaun of the Dead... you name it... he is brilliant in so many ways! Scotty included!

Here's Scotty being all intense.

If I wanted to complain, I'd say the movie was a bit predictable, and the out-of-nowhere underwear scene was pretty unnecessary. But I loved the movie, regardless. Perhaps even more than the first!



Lastly, LIFE: Why I haven't been updating nearly as much or as interestingly as I should like.
I don't want to place blame, but it's totally because of grade twelve.

I only have about four weeks to go until I graduate (!!!!!) but it feels like an age. I am ready to be done!

Things already feel like they're beginning to wind down, though... the (painful) calculus final was today, we're doing valedictorian speeches in English Lit, and the "Green to Grad" list is up. Thankfully, I am green to grad, yay!

I am excited for prom, though, I think that will be tons of fun. I got my dress back from alterations today, and it fits perfectly! Sorry, you won't be seeing any pictures until the day of, when I've got the entire look put together ;) but I'll give you a hint: one strap.

And that's that. I really am sorry I haven't been updating recently, but things will probably be pretty slow from now until grad, or at least until I can actually think of something worthwhile to write about. I apologize for this all-over-the-place post...

Do let me know what you would like to hear from me in the future, maybe it will give me some ideas!

-Hannah

Successful Friday!

Hello, everyone! How are things? Good, I hope!

I had a brief but GOOD shopping trip yesterday. A couple friends went shopping for the day, me included, and while I couldn't stay for the entire time, I did manage to get a couple hours of solid shopping in. I didn't buy many things, but I found things that I had been wanting for a while, so I'm happy!

First of all, I bought a jean jacket, which is something that has been on my wishlist for a while. I found one at H&M, and I'm very happy with it! It was $38. It's medium wash and vaguely distressed, and I feel like it'll be a good thing to have when all I need is a light cover.

Photo credit to the H&M and Forever 21 websites, respectively.

Another thing I bought is a pair of patterned flats. I have a decent shoe collection, but am very low in the flat department! I bought these at Forever 21 for $15, and I don't think they'll last more than a year of good use, but I don't mind, since they were so cheap! I will definitely use them a lot in the summer.

Lastly, and most excitedly, I got my own laptop! AHHHHHH! I am blogging to you all on it right now! It's a Sony VAIO. 14" screen. 16GB. i7 core. It's WONDERFUL. My dad surprised me yesterday by going to pick it up on our way home from shopping. Just in time for university next year!

Speaking of Dad, he's just convinced me to do some yard work today. So it's time for me to wrap up. Bye! Have a lovely weekend!

-Hannah

Liebster Award Tag!

Hey everyone! I was kindly tagged by Becky at beautytobakes!

Here's how this thing works:

1) Answer 11 questions from the person who nominated you

2) Tell 11 random facts about yourself

3) Tag 11 blogs that have under 200 followers and ask them 11 questions

This sounds like much fun, so I decided to give it a go! Do check out the 11 blogs I tag at the end of this post, they are all awesome blogs and awesome people.

11 QUESTIONS

1. Do you wear glasses, contacts, or none of these?

    None of these! May need glasses for reading off of university class boards next year, though.

2. What are your favourite types of blog posts?

    I like a lot of different kinds, but I have to say, I'm a big fan of baking tutorials (everything looks so  yummy!) , shopping hauls, and music or movie related posts.

3. What is your favourite perfume?

    Right now I use the GAP's "So Pink" perfume and I LOVE it - all flowery and citrusy and nice :)

4. What is your beauty bargain?

    Once, I got an AE sweater that was originally $40 at $13. I was pretty darn proud of myself!

5. What app do you use the most on your phone/iPad?

    Probably Twitter. I always use it to kill time!

6. Who is your favourite Youtuber?

    Good question! I have so many favourites, but right now, I'd have to say communitychannel. So funny!

7. What is your favourite cereal?

    For everyday, I'm going to go classic and say Cheerios. For special occasions, Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

8. Where is the place in the world that you most want to visit that you haven't been to before? Why?

    The UK, definitely. Like, the whole of the UK! Or anywhere in Europe, really! I just love the culture there so much, and out of Europe, have only been to Holland. It was awesome, and definitely made me want to travel Europe in more depth!

9. If you were given a card of 100 pounds to spend in one store, which one would you choose?

    H&M. Or Modcloth.

10. What is your mobile phone?

    Blackberry, and proud! :)

11. What is your favourite day of the week? Why?

    I actually really like Thursdays, not quite sure why! I think it's because it's on the downhill. The end is in sight!

11 FACTS

1. I'm not a massive fan of jelly beans, but will eat them gladly if they are in front of me.

2. I have a dog named Chester and a (INSANE) cat named Charlie

3. I have what people call "hitchhiker's thumbs." So they're super flexible.

4. I am of South African heritage.

5. Favourite animal: octopus. They're just so COOL.

6. It honestly breaks my heart whenever I remember Firefly was cancelled.

7. I LOVE pleated skirts!

8. I paint and draw.

9. I can both ski and snowboard.

10. I dream of having a house with a window seat!

11. My favourite author is Markus Zusak.

- - -

11 QUESTIONS FOR NEXT BLOGGERS

1. What is your favourite pattern?

2. If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

3. What is one store you could spend hours and hours in?

4. What is your favourite makeup brand?

5. Favourite season? Why?

6. If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would that meal be?

7. What is one thing you hope to achieve before you die?

8. Are you a cat or dog person? Or neither?

9. What is your dream job?

10. Apple or PC?

11. What is your favourite band/artist?

I TAG:

Miss Mong

Diary of a Trendaholic

Natoodle

A Collection of Musings

Pretty little love heart...

Niamh It And Leave It

GROWING FROM ROOTS

curls & blossoms
Cherie's Beauty Blog
The Nerdy Girlie

Go check these people out! They rock!



-Hannah

Iron Man 3 Thoughts (SPOILERS)

I finally saw Iron Man 3 this past Saturday! LOVED IT!

I was a bit nervous going into it that it wouldn't fit my expectations, and tried desperately to not have any massive expectations because of that. I'd heard a lot of mixed opinions about the movie (worst case - it sucked ) and didn't really want those to taint my own opinion. So I tried to stay open-minded.

Honestly, there was nothing to worry about. Spoilers ahead! There were a lot of complaints about the fact that Tony Stark was a lot more fragile in this movie - he was struggling with coping with what happened in New York with Loki - but honestly, if you're a guy like Tony Stark, used to logical and reasonable things like technology and science, wouldn't you be a bit rattled too if aliens showed up at your front doorstep?

Even though I felt bad for him about the whole anxiety thing, I still didn't quite understand why he basically told the Mandarin where he lived. I think it was pretty obvious he was going to get attacked pretty soon after dishing that little piece of information. As the house was being demolished, Stark and Potts still inside, Tony Stark controlled his suit prototype to encase Pepper, which was pretty cool. She works the suit!

I am also going to say now that I adore Pepper Potts. She is fantastic. And badass. And so underrated! I mean, come on, she basically finished off the bad guy!

Seeing all the suits line up is MASSIVELY grin-inducing

Lastly - and this may be the largest spoiler of all, so LEAVE NOW if you don't want to see this - I was kind of sad that all of Tony's awesome suits were destroyed! I mean, I understand why, he was getting dangerously close to obsession with them, but they were just so darn cool. I wanted one for myself, really. Hopefully he doesn't need them in the next Avengers movie. If he'll even be in that movie, that is. Fingers crossed.

Now, I eagerly await Star Trek: Into Darkness, Catching Fire, and the next Hobbit installment. Are there any movies or shows you are excited for?

Posts involving hair products, nail polishes, and baking to come soon!

-Hannah

Mini Cosmetics Haul

Hello everyone! First of all, Happy Mother's Day! I hope you are all having a lovely day :)

Secondly, cosmetics haul! I bought a grand total of TWO make up items today. Massive amount, I know! I thought I would share anyway, even if it is just to avoid the looming pile of homework waiting for me. So let's get started!

Now, I'm not completely sure if nail polish falls under "cosmetics," but if I didn't put this in, my haul would only have ONE item, and that's hardly a haul, is it!

Essie's TART DECO

Essie "Tart Deco" nail polish! It's a lovely peachy colour, very summery. I have been looking for a pinky-orange such as this one for a while now, so I was very happy to stumble upon this colour, and for sale, to boot!

I really do love Essie nail polishes, though I mainly have OPI in my collection, just because of OPI's awesome colour selection. I have one other Essie, Turquoise and Caicos, and I love the consistency and durability. In my opinion, OPI and Essie are very similar in how well they stay on. I will make sure to post pictures and comments after I try out this one!

Secondly, I bought my very first liquid foundation, hooray! I've been using powder for basically my entire foundation-using years of life, and while I love powder foundation, I was in need of a good liquid foundation for those times when extra coverage is necessary.

So I bought this Almay Clear Complexion liquid makeup, which, I just realized now, is new! I tried a little from a sample bottle at the store, and I really loved how it felt and blended in.

Only complaint: no spf. But I'm sure I'll survive!

And that is my extremely small haul! Once I've begun using these two products, I'll post some sort of review. But for now, I hope you're all having lovely Mother's Days, and that the weather wherever you are is better than the weather here!



-Hannah

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Updo of the Day

Hello! I tried something a little different with my hair today - experimenting usually takes place during weekends, so this is quite something - and was pleased to see that it worked out!

Updos can be quite tricky at times with curly hair, and sometimes shockingly and wonderfully easy. This was the latter. An absolute breeze!

You can click on the pictures to make them larger

Like I said, super easy. I wanted to move away from the regular bun and into something a bit more textured and wild, and this was born. I'm sure experimentation could be done - a few more pieces hanging free, maybe, or perhaps some curls framing the face. I'm definitely going to try different variations!

Here are the basics. You'll need a handful (ten or so) bobby pins, a hair tie, water, and some sort of taming product such as gel or smoothing serum.

1. Best done with slightly damp hair. Wet your hair thoroughly, then work gel or cream through your hair. Make sure to scrunch, too, so you still have your nice curl pattern going!
2. Pull your hair into a pony tail. Any height would work, I'm sure, depending on what kind of look you're going for. Today, I had a medium height pony tail.
3. This part is fun because it's so awesomely easy! Take your pony tail in your palm and smoosh it against the back of your head. This achieves the disarray-messy-bun look. With your pins, secure your hair to the back of your head, fixing tendrils here and there if they don't look right to you. 
4. Smooth flyaways in the front with gel, or loosen a couple of curls around your face to finish the look. And there you go! A quick, easy way to secure those curls!

I hope you curly girls out there find this helpful! If you try it, feel free to comment and tell me how it works for you :)

-Hannah

The Wizarding World

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios is expanding. And this makes me excited!

They're adding a Diagon Alley (with a dragon on top of Gringott's!), and it's set to open in 2014. Is that cool or what?!

I went to Universal Studios last summer, and Hogsmeade was definitely one of my favourite parts of the park. The three rides were awesome, butterbeer was delicious, and even though the Orlando weather was way hotter than anything my poor Canadian body was used to, I had a blast.

Entering the park - click the pictures to expand

There was just something so magical (totally intended) about experiencing Hogsmeade in that way. Both my sister and I are crazy Harry Potter fans, and this really was a dream come true for us. Honeydukes, the Hog's Head, Ollivander's (which technically should have been in Diagon Alley, but hey, nothing's perfect)... it was all so incredible.

The entire Universal Studios experience was incredible, actually! My mum and I had been to Disneyland for field hockey a couple years previous, and kept telling my dad and sister how AMAZING it was and how much we NEEDED to go to a park as a family, and when it finally happened, I was thrilled. And, as I said, HP has always had a special place in my heart. This expansion makes me really happy!

Universal has confirmed it - a dragon atop Gringott's!

According to this article on Hypable, there will be destinations like Gringotts, Weasley Wizard Wheezes, and King's Cross, which will have the Hogwarts Express waiting to take people over to Hogsmeade. Awesome concept art has been released, showing what these stores and stations will possibly look like. It's all very exciting!

My favourite piece of art from the article is this one below:

Absolutely gorgeous. On a side note, I used to want to be a concept artist. Still sort of do, actually.

Anyway, this is what has been exciting me lately! I've been telling my friends, some more than once, and I really hope I can visit the expanded park once it's open.

BUT - super excited for this - my family is going to Disneyland and Yosemite this summer! YAY! I absolutely love Disneyland, and I think Yosemite will be really beautiful. I'll definitely be telling you guys ALL about it :)

Until the next!

Style Inspiration: Charlotte Charles

I've been feeling INSPIRED. I've been feeling inspired by Charlotte Charles, AKA Chuck, from the (wonderful) show Pushing Daisies. 

Chuck has this adorable vintage style going on. In every episode, she's wearing a new and adorable dress. Am I wanting to dress/be like Chuck? Yes. Yes I am.

I mean, not only is her style great, but she gets NED, possibly the most adorable man ever to be on television ever.

Anyway, back to the fashion. Chuck has that retro style that I love, and have seen in places like Modcloth and Piperlime and the like. It's a style I would love to begin working towards, maybe even just beginning with some vintage heels.

So yes, that is who has been inspiring me lately! I'm almost finished with season one of Pushing Daisies, very sad that there are only two seasons. I will just have to find another show to fill the gap when I'm done. Or maybe actually get caught up with Game of Thrones for once!

Who are you feeling inspired by? Any show suggestions? Feel free to leave any thoughts below!

May 3rd Shopping

I went shopping today! Much fun!

It was beautifully sunny, first off, which just made it that much better! Instead of staying inside the mall all day, we walked outside and checked out all the cute little boutiques. Tons of stuff to be seen!

Another pleated skirt to add to my closet!

I bought another pleated skirt, which I'm really excited about. I have one, and love thin pleats like this! I absolutely love the colour as well; it's this gorgeous turquoisey blue colour. (You can click on the pictures to enlarge.)

I also bought a Pride & Prejudice v-neck t-shirt which I LOVE. It has this pretty feather design on the front... I think it may have been an edition of the book at some point, it seems like it could have been! It's awesome. I love it.

One high-class cat!

And, of course, another pin. How could I not?! We went into this FANTASTIC store that's basically all stationary and journal and book related, and I found so many cute two dollar things that I ended up spending, like, twenty-five dollars. Small things add up! I bought an adorable, dapper cat pin, and also found a card for my dad for his birthday, a card for Mother's Day, and a journal for my mum for Mother's Day. (Let's hope she doesn't see this post!) The journal is so cool - there were all these differently themed journals. The one I got her was music, because that's her passion, but there were book-themed ones, photography-themed ones, you name it! Basically, every few pages, there's a little inspirational quote about whatever theme the journal has. Super cool.

I was tempted to buy a journal for myself as well!

And, of course, we ate some marvellous food! We had lunch at an awesome, classy tea-and-pastry place, indulged in Purdy's chocolates, and ended the day with floats and milkshakes. Will I be eating nothing but vegetables for the next week? Yes. Yes I will.

Gorgeous antique design!

All in all, a lovely day! I hadn't gone shopping in MUCH too long, so it was nice to get that out of my system. Plus, the weather was absolutely perfect for the day, which just added to the overall summery feeling that strolling around downtown was giving me.

I hope you all have wonderful weekends!