May Editor’s Letter

Hi everyone,

Haha do you think you’re getting a beauty post with this image? Wrong. You’re getting a brain dump post.

I will tell you first, though. These two products I received from the beautiful Nicky on Instagram… she sent them to me out of the goodness of her own heart when I commented on one of her stories saying how lovely they were. Seriously, she deserves alllll the good karma.

I really wanted to make monthly ‘Letters From The Editor” a thing. I did it for one month, then fell off the blogging bandwagon. It’s actually not even that I fell off, I just- cue cliché- didn’t have the time.

Hear me out.

I only left the school system in late 2018 when I graduated Year 12. I haven’t ever had to work 8-9 hour, consecutive days. It’s been a lot to learn.

I get home from work and I am tired- but there is still more adulting to be done.

The last thing I feel like doing is looking at a screen to type up a blog post.

Don’t get me wrong, I have wanted to write a blog post… I have an overflowing mind of ideas. I just have not had the energy to allow for the effort.

But!

My schedule looks to be clearing in the next few weeks (I always say this… then more work opportunities pop up and suddenly I am BUSY again) and so I am going to allow for some quality R&R (I woke up with a sore throat this morning and was like please god no) and some quality blogging time.

So, here is the May ‘Letter From The Editor’… with just under a week of May left.

In other news:

– I intended to go on a No Buy this month… did not happen

– I got my new bank card which has allowed for internet purchases (yep, have never had this before) which means I’ve been supporting a heap of online businesses (read: buying a heap of stuff I wouldn’t have if I didn’t have this new card)

– Everything I’ve bought has been on sale… but I recently read somewhere that it’s better to buy one more expensive quality item, than lots of cheap and nasty items… (Something like that anyways.) Not sure where I stand with that, yet.

– I have a spendy month ahead in June with a girl’s trip away and many birthdays… I have not budgeted well for it.

– Mother’s Day made this month quite spendy but it was all certainly justified… because, I ❤ my mum.

– This blog and IG is still a secret from the rest of the world. Awkward, because I have packages arriving at my house (see above: my new card) that are often addressed to Rolly Mag and I’ve told my parents it’s my emailaddress… lol

– I’M JUST SCARED OK

– My god, May has actually been a hectic and bloody long month, I’m now remembering

– We had a family health scare on the 1st, which is kind of on the mend but still has caused disruption and concern to our lives

– I think the worry from that in conjunction with heightened work stress has caused my incurable breakout of pimples along my jaw line. Can someone remedy that? Nothing is working.

That should about do it for now, friends.

I want to keep this primarily a beauty blog but I am the person behind the beauty content and so it makes sense that one cannot occur without the other.

I realise I still have a uni update draft blog post awaiting publication… but that feels like so long ago I don’t know if it’s still relevant.

TL;DR for those of you who are still with me à Went into a communications course I was really unsure about, tried it for a week, hated it, cried in the middle of Bourke St Mall on the phone to my mum and told her I couldn’t do it anymore… never went back and am now living (but mostly working) happily ever after.

Can I add, the irony is that when I got the course offer, I posted on IG ‘just got accepted into the course of my dreams’… lol, no. I think that came from relief that I was accepted into anything at all.

Rant over, big love, hopefully we’ll have some more regular beauty content soon… I’m not promising anything, just hoping for one post a week at this stage (that, and to start working out three times a week. Dreaming big.)

Omg, have I posted a blog post since the Jonas Brothers got back together????… BECAUSE THE JONAS BROTHERS ARE BACK TOGETHER!!!

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And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

INSTAGRAM GIVEAWAY

ROLLY Mag

Hello everyone!

Finally, finally, finally my Instagram giveaway is live!!!

Click here to enter by simply:

– following me @rolly.mag

– liking the picture

– tagging two friends in the comments!

– for 5 extra entries, post the pic to your story and be sure to tag me!

Ultimately, this giveaway is a big THANK YOU to my amazing followers and supporters both on IG and over here on my blog!

I thought ROLLY Mag would be the perfect place to give you a quick run through of all the products included…

Biore cleanser: charcoal is being used for so many beauty treatments nowadays… but my experience with charcoal starting right here!

Sukin moisturiser: this whole range is so gorgeous… and even though I have sensitive skin, I can use all Sukin products without fear! Love that they’re Aussie too!

Palmers: my absolute fave lip balm… obviously had to include it!

Chapstick: I love a tinted lip balm! I’ve not tried this one so I would love to hear feedback from the winner!

Andalou: this rose water mask is heaven!!

Ulta3: my fave eye products at the moment! So easy to use!

Savvy: how pretty are these two palettes!? My fave shade combos!

Neutrogena: I’ve worn this SPF everyday for the last 4 years and could not recommend it enough! I use it on my face but it is appropriate for your body too. Aussies, always remember to slip, slip, slap!

Maybelline lash serum: the #lashsensational mascara is my faveeee of all time! So I hope that this serum gives you the same incredible results! I’ve not had much experience with serums so again, I’d love to know how the winner gets along with this.

This giveaway is not affiliated with Instagram or the brands involved. I have purchased all of the items myself. Open to Australian residents only ‼️

Giveaway ends THURSDAY 25th of APRIL 8PM.

Comment your IG handle below for an EXTRA 5 ENTRIES!! 🥰

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag >>>

https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

April No Buy: Week 1

ROLLY Mag

How satisfying is it when the first day of a new month coincides with the first day of the working working!?

April did that- and thankfully too because it makes this #nobuy much easier to group into “week” categories haha.

As I said in my Editor’s Letter last week… I am commencing another no buy this month (like I did in February too!)

Not so much a “no buy” as a “conscious buy”.

Let’s see how it went…

Monday, 1st: worked all day and spent nothing!

Tuesday, 2nd: same as yesterday = $0 spent.

Wednesday, 3rd: spent zero!

Thursday, 4th: another successful no buy day!

Friday, 5th: first day this month I wasn’t working and so I had plans to meet with a friend. Successfully bought nothing beauty/clothes wise but spent a lot of money on food.

Saturday, 6th: my bestie got her license so we did a celebratory shopping trip… I only bought a pair of earrings from the Sportsgirl sale and a toy for my puppy… but still #fail. Oh… and I bought lots of food.

Sunday, 7th: I worked today and so- hurray I didn’t buy anything!

A pretty successful #nobuy week, if I do say so myself.

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag >>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

April Editor’s Letter

ROLLY Mag

Why hello, friends!

I am currently writing this on my phone in the WordPress app on March 31st… nothing like cutting it fine eh?

I have wanted to write an “Editor’s Letter” since I first started reading magazines. My internet inspo for this post comes from Lauren Conrad and Sharni… both of whom’s Ed’s Letters I read monthly and think “dang I really have to do that next month!”… and then I forget for the next three months.

I was very tempted to a) post this later in April or b) just skip this month and try better next time… but enough is enough!

Rushed and not perfect… but published!

Contents:

– Book Club

– No Buy

– Uni Update

– Playlist

– Giveaway

Like this Ed’s Letter… a monthly book club is something I’ve always wanted to incorporate into my blog but just haven’t got around to doing!

It is my goal this month to prioritise reading and finally start (and finish!) The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai. It was a gift from my Year 12 Literature teacher and I would love to be able to tell her that I have read it- haha!

I’ve not heard of the book before and have no expectations. But if you care to follow along the journey of me reading it I will be keeping you updated here on the blog!

I also hope to read What I like about me which I actually won from Babbling Books on Instagram. I am beyond grateful and excited… so I can’t wait to share that with you also once it arrives in the mail!

At this point I’m thinking the “book club” will be a weekly update style post.

Next up… I have decided to embark on another No Buy during the month of April! You may recall I did this throughout February- read here!- and found it really eye opening!

Having gone a little wild spending wise in the latter part of March (Priceline 1/2 price sale I blame you!) I think it is about time to take control of my spending habits again.

I foresee a few challenges/temptations… of which I’ll talk more about during the first update post! But to summarise:

– Innisfree Highpoint store opening

– being off work for three weeks

– Easter (and the sales that come with!)

– friends birthdays (a gift for them, a gift (or two!) for me right?)

Sooooo… in regards to my uni update- I can’t believe I am yet to talk about it on the blog!

It’s been such a major part of my offline life… so I’ll be sure to fill you in properly but basically; I went to uni for a week, decided I really didn’t like it, cried tears of relief in the middle of Bourke Street whilst on the phone to my mum and I’ve now deferred. Best. Decision. I am so happy with my life right now!

Buttttt I have been very busy work wise since this month… and this week ahead! So once that settles down a bit there will be much more time to dedicate to the blog! I’m excited for what I have planned!

And to round off this letter… my favourite tunes of the month! See any faves?

My March/April Playlist

– Sucker: Jonas Brothers (will have this on repeat forever)

– 3 Nights: Dominic Fike

– Woke Up Late: Drax Project ft Hailee Steinfield

– Her: Alex Aiono (what a gift this man is *heart eyes for days*)

– I Don’t Belong In This Club: Why Don’t We ft Macklemore (unlikely collab… And I’m here for it!)

– Mess Her Up: Amy Shark (hashtag girl boss)

Thank you so much for reading and following along on this journey.

If you’re not already following me on IG… please do! I’m always updating and engaging over there so I’d love for you to join the ROLLY Mag community. That’s where you’ll be able to enter the giveaway I’m hosting too! So pleaseeeee stay tuned for that… as I celebrate 400 followers!

Happy April, everyone! Let me know what you think of this style of post in the comments below xxx

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag >>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

#PROJECTPAN MONTH 2

ROLLY Mag

Hi everyone, March has gone so quickly and doing this Project pan post sort of wasn’t at the top of my mind. Oops. But here we are…. better late than never.

I have two #ProjectPan posts on the blog already, so you can catchup and read them here.

Initially, I thought that I would have monthly pans… but that has turned out to be extremely unfeasible. I haven’t hit pan/finished any of the products that I’ve shared here previously. This is because…

I don’t wear makeup enough to get through my products monthly and 2. when I do where makeup, I only need such a small amount!

I was making quite a dint in my primer and BB cream during February, but i think wearing makeup more frequently freaked my skin out. So I’ve pulled it right back, which is making it hard to use up those products.

But! I do have two new skincare products that I’m hoping to use up by the end of the year (rather than the end of the month!)

Sukin Signature Hydrating Mist Toner: I use this to set my makeup, but honestly, I often forget! It smells delish and is really refreshing. I wanted to buy the other scent however I thought if I could challenge myself to actually make use of this… then I’d treat myself. Anddddd i think it would be fun to try using it for it’s purpose as a toner.

Simple Cleansing Oil: I bought this in the hope that I would start doubling cleansing. That has not happened because honestly, this product smells horrible! It’s really not an enjoyable experience… however, it does get makeup off well. I’m not totally put off from cleansing oils, I want to try this Sukin one and this Swisse one… but I will definitely not be repurchasing. I think to get my use out of it, I will use it in the shower, as I find it a bit messy haha but that could just be me. Hence, I’m keen to try the Swisse one because it has a spray application.

So there we go! How have you been going with your #ProjectPan. Let me know in the comments 🙂

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And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

Recent beauty purchases

ROLLY Mag

I shared my Priceline haul on my Instagram yesterday but I thought it would be fun to share here too! And quickly, because the Andalou products are still on sale. And there’s a few random bits I’ve bought earlier in the month too!

I first heard about this brand on the You Beauty podcast… and perfect timing too because it is 40% off at Priceline!

I initially thought I would purchase the pink and/or blue pack… but I really don’t need a cleanser/day/night cream and really just wanted to try the toner and masks. So I made the hard choice to picking which ones and settled on these!

The mask was recommended by Leigh Campbell so I’m excited!

I love the idea of mechanical/electric face cleansing machines, but I’m scared of paying $100+ for one!! So when I found this one from TKMaxx, I thought it was the perfect way to test the trend without the cost.

I’ve just realised You Beauty is a common factor of this post because this MCO highlight stick is also a recommendation of Leigh’s!

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And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

Week Latte #10

ROLLY Mag

@kaylnnicholson13, @babblingbooks, @chelsandzoe, @cocosteaparty

Happy Friday! I have had such a good week, feeling super positive and just content. I think it has to do with the fact I’ve had a really nice balance of work, socialising and alone time…. in anticipation of next week which is set to be crazyyyyyy.

I’m super motivated and inspired by this week’s links, hope you enjoy!

I can’t wait to explore my own city, using Tamsien’s Book Market Guide!

Stumbled across this blog post on Pinterest, and I absolutely love Chelsea’s Instagram too. This skincare routine is so simple, really achievable and seems to have great results- I’m intrigued.

I read this post from Ella when it was published last year, but found it again recently which was such good timing (thank you, universe!!). I really needed to be reminded of ‘Why It’s Okay To Change Your Mind’… as i’ve just made a big life decision… details to come!

More career advice here from A Cup of Jo… who I also found through Ella!

My mind was blown away by this piece… ‘Why Busyness is Actually Modern Laziness’ *boom*

Always looking for some help with ‘adulting’, which I think other people do also because it’s sold out here.

I love watching/reading things like this, regular person as opposed to fitness guru?

Similarly to the Mindful post I shared above… Kalyn brings ‘GYST-ing’ back to it’s core, rather than the aesthetically-pleasing facade that is often portrayed.

And to finish on a lighter note… twitter bring the goods. I watched and loved Captain Marvel… it definitely sparked a passion within me. The film industry is where I would love to work… one day I’ll have my name in the credits of a Marvel movie *crosses fingers and hustles hard*.

Please share your fave links from the week in the comments 🙂

Happy weekend!

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And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

Week Latte #9

ROLLY Mag

Welcome to the weekend everyone! And for me, a long one thanks to a public holiday.

I officially started uni this week. So things have been busyyyyyy! I might update you on that separately to this post though.

Also, Happy International Women’s Day! I am loving my IG feed at the moment, filled with positivity and love.

@laurajaneillustrations

Let’s get to the links!

I’m nervous to shave my face, but this post makes me think it’s worth it?

Love Isabel’s writing… and her organisation tips for people like me. If organisation was measured by Pinterest boards, I’d be good 😅

My lovely IG friend Cortney (follow her here, and tell her I sent you!) tagged me in this post from @jessica_riga … “Advice from Two Uni Graduates” – such an inspiring read that applies to life beyond uni too!

This is just too cute. And to be honest, my dog is my best friend.

Absolutely adored these Aunt Sarah illustrations about the realities of dating… see her IG for more truthful lols.

Love me a DIY hack!

I have heard great things about the book “12 Rules for Life”, but I had no idea of who the author was. Now, I’m conflicted. Read more here.

How incredible powerful does this documentary sound! Adding it to my watch list ASAP!

Can you believe TSwift is going to be thirty this year!? She truly does get better with age, see here. The snake and Bleachella references were personal faves hahah.

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hellorollymag@gmail.com

What’s in my uni bag

ROLLY Mag

It’s back-to-uni-eve and so, how fitting to show you what’s in my uni bag! Disclaimer… this is a hypothetical situation 🙊

I am currently giving uni a two week trial period- to see how I suit/like my course, and so, I don’t want to buy things I’m not going to use if I choose not to continue.

And so, this is what WOULD be in my uni bag if I were 100% committed 😅

This gorgeous backpack from The Beekeeper Parade is also hypothetical because it’s currently sold out. But I would definitely chose this pattern, as I’m not afraid of it clashing with an outfit (adds character). It’s just the cutest print! I love the muted colours. I also love this one if you’re looking for a more simple colour way.

In a dream uni life, I would have the gold MacBook Air. This colour is just dreamyyyyyty! But I have two issues with this: is this finish going to last as well as the silver? And is a Mac the best suit for me? I love the idea of a laptop that converts to a tablet, but choosing one of those options is hard as everywhere I look there is a different opinion. At least I know with the Macs, they’re reliable.

I had these highlighters in high school and loved them, but I want to update my aesthetic (I’m joking, I just want more colours!) and Zebra is the sure-fire way to do so. This set of 25 is actual goals. All my favourite study bloggers use these pens, and so they would be a *great investment* (cough) because if use them for study and my bullet journal! Win win!

Hydrate… in style! I especially love Memobottle because they are a student initiated, Melbourne based company! I actually think the A7 would be very practical for me as it would fit in my handbag, but for a day at uni, the 750ml A5 is best suited.

As for a pencil case, it would honestly be any of these Typo ones. I love the shape, and all the styles are so cute. However, I think I’d chose this one because it would make a cute travel makeup bag too!

Hand sanitiser. Need I say more? My go to is this one by Thankyou however they have a delish grapefruit scent one as well- sadly this doesn’t appear to come in a travel size!

Coffee but make it fashion! How sleek is this travel mug! My only issue isn’t car doesn’t have a cup holder so I’m not sure how I’d transport this (full!) from home to the train. Ahhh I’m obsessed with this cup!!!

How gorgeous is the green colour of this planner! And it’s only $10 from Kmart. The reason I haven’t bought it is mainly because I currently have 3 planners. And so another probably isn’t necessary. Pretty though!!

Now this is not hypothetical! I have it packed in my current “make shift” uni bag all ready for tomorrow. I am that type of person that has a lip balm in their car, their bedside, their handbag, etc etc, and so uni has given me a perfect opportunity to expand my lip balm collection 😉

Other things:

– chewies

– notebook

– headphones

– tissues

– lanyard for student card

– glasses! (For seeing the lecture board and my Sarah’s Day anti bluelight pair for when I’m studying on my laptop!)

And I think that’s all!! It will be interesting to see how I actually go at uni with my current supplies and if I need anything else.

Please, part with your wisdom and let us know in the comments below- uni bag essentials?

Big love 💓

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A Very Belated Priceline Haul

ROLLY Mag

Hey everyone, today I am sharing a few bits I picked up in late January!

(I’ve had this post written since early Feb… but didn’t want to share it during the No Buy 😅)

If you don’t know, I’m did a “no buy” in February- meaning I *tried* to buy NOTHING!!! No clothes, beauty, homewares etc etc… only petrol (sadly) and food (as it turned out!). Only a few days in, and it had been tough. Some deals are hard to resist- especially for a bargain lover (and shopaholic) like me. But, I have so many products already so I really DO NOT NEED to buy anything more. And above all else, I was challenging myself to stick to this. If I can do it, I’ll probably celebrate with shopping to be honest 😬 But let’s not get ahead of ourselves!

Update: If you read yesterday’s post (my final February #NoBuy update!) you’ll know that I no longer feel the need to do a big shop after the No Buy… I’m just as shocked as you!

So yes, the haul!

I picked up the NYX items in the 3 for 2 sale at Priceline. Definitely not the best sale they do on that brand, but I was being spendy. The brush is sooooo pretty I couldn’t resist. And the gloss is lovely… I just really didn’t need it. And then the blush… Between picking this up and checking out, I went from owning one blush (at home) to suddenly having THREE!

The Physicians Formula products I got for… wait for it… ONE DOLLAR EACH! Can you believe it? I’ve never seen a sale like that at Priceline. I’m not sure why they were so heavily reduced… and honestly I’ve never seen those products in store. They’re not on the website either, however they are on the PF website- not for $1, but still very cheaper (under $10!) Super happy with these finds 🙌