#NoBuy Update: Week 4

ROLLY Mag

Happy 1st of March everyone… can you believe February is over?? And with it, so is the No Buy! Here is my final instalment of the February #NoBuy series, enjoy!

Friday, February 22nd: Went to the AFLX and so bought dinner out, but didn’t buy any beauty/clothes etc- woo!

Saturday, February 23rd: Bought nothing!

Sunday, February 24th: Nothing! Mostly because I didn’t leave the house…

Monday, February 25th: Worked all day and so, bought nothing!

Tuesday, February 26th: First uni orientation day! Bought a few foodie snacks from Woolies.

Wednesday, February 27th: Another uni orientation, bought lunch.

Thursday, February 28th: successful day of no buys!

This final week of February was definitely my most successful, in that I bought no beauty products or clothes or shoes or accessories etc. This is simply because I wasn’t out at the shops and therefore didn’t have an opportunity to buy! however, this week was a bit more speedier food-wise as I had a few ‘events’.

Overall, I definitely cut back on my spending during the month of Feb. I think this was de to 1) being conscious about my ‘no buy’ and 2) I had a realisation about the sheer amount of money I had spent on beauty and was disgusted by it- and so things had to change!

Whilst I still purchased items beauty items this month- I wouldn’t say I failed, per se. I learnt a lot about my spending habits and have realised that the best way to stop sending- is to stop shopping! I honestly haven’t felt ‘withdrawals’ or anything purely because my time to shop has been very limited this month.

Would I do it again? Absolutely.

In fact, I want to take my ‘no buy’ mindset and apply it to my life, even beyond February. This month, as well as limiting my purchase of beauty items, I am definitely going to be more conscious of eating out.

The biggest shocker to me, is that I’ve enjoyed having a ‘beauty detox’! Yes, the ‘new arrivals’ tempt me, but i am able to say no. Andddd I have no desire to go out splurge now that the official No Buy is over, which I assumed I would.

Buying a sneaky protein bar and iced coffee from Woolies may cost less than ten bucks, but it’s something that will add up quickly if I make a habit of it.

My test will be commuting to he city four days a week for uni, and resisting the temptations!

Thank you for coming along on this #NoBuy journey with me… I’d love to know about your No Buy experience in the comments below!

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SPF Inventory

ROLLY Mag

Happy #SkincareSunday everyone! I am so excited for this post… you know I love lip balm, but my second favourite skincare product (or maybe my EQUAL fave) is SUNSCREEN!

I am really lucky to have established an SPF routine at an early age and apply it daily now, no questions!

About 4 years ago, I started taking Roaccutane for my acne. As a part of this, I was warned I would have an increased sensitivity to sun exposure. So, on the way home from that appointment, my mum took me to Priceline and we bought an everyday-wear sunscreen… my beloved Neutrogena Ultra Sheer. I’ve worn it everyday since!

During my Roaccuntane days, my mum would chase me around to wear a hat even if I so much so stepped outside to check the letterbox! She was (/is) always looking out for me and my skin… and because of that, I am so passionate about promoting skincare to others.

Like any habit, it will take you a little bit to adjust to. But incorporating SPF into your daily routine really is non negotiable. Your past, present and future self will thank you!

It is a growing market, and so you will undoubtedly walk into Priceline or Chemist Warehouse (or another retailer of your choice!) and find something to suit your skin type, climate and budget.

Personally, I choose SPF50 year round… however, living in Australia is different to living in Canada. So you do you.

Whilst I’ve only used two of the below products, I own them all and am eagerly waiting to try them! I would love to know your favourite SPF, or if you’ve tried any of the below?

Starting with my trusty Neutrogena. This formula is non greasy, dry touch, sheer and high protection. It’s been my go-to for 4 (maybe 5?!) years! I only wear it on my face btw. I use this on a freshly washed face in the morning, half sunscreen, half moisturiser combo, that I apply together.

This Hawaiian Tropic body sunscreen is a new discovery of mine over this summer. It smells divine and is non greasy, so it’s perfect for daily body wear. For the relatively small bottle, you do pay a bit- especially considering its primary use is for the body and so you require a greater amount. Make sure it buy this one when it’s on sale.

Same brand, but I’m yet to try this face version! I’m hoping for a similar effect to my Neutrogena, but with a delicious, coconut scent!

Another Neutrogena product, but one I’m yet to use! I read on the You Beauty Facebook Group that one lady uses this on her dry skin daily, over serums but without moisturiser! So I have high hopes it will be hydrating. (Not that the first Neutrogena I mentioned above is drying- or not hydrating- it just certainly doesn’t replace a moisturiser, hence why I use it in conjunction with one!)

And finally, the Nivea BB Cream. A new purchase, as recommended by Bel of 5toTry earlier in the year! I think it’s a fabulous idea, and couldn’t really streamline mornings when you’re in a rush and need quick, easy coverage. I’ve been scared of these products previously… but I trust Bel. She said upon first application it can be scary, but once it’s rubbed in- it’s worth it! There is only one shade, bear in mind. However, this same product does come in a formula that is un-tinted as well.

And finally, my SPF wishlist! This Mecca sunscreen has a huge hype, but my bestie tells me it’s rightly so! Once I get through my current collection, I’m keen to try this! Although, it is definitely not an amount I would usually spend! 🙊

Thanks for reading everyone, and remember; slip, slop, slap! ☀️

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Week Latte #8

ROLLY Mag, Week Latte

@gorgiegork @rust_creative @5totry @smileycitrus @thebibliotheque

Hello Friday! This weekend’s to-do list, try my new lash serums. What’s your experience with them? Happy reading xx

Loved this video from @smileycitrus! Very relatable as I will be studying communications this year… that is, if I don’t take a gap year! I love hearing about other people’s uni experiences.

https://youtu.be/fh8Im3Icpck

I am yet to watch this video but it was shared by @houseofwhite_ and is her inso for waking up at 6am every morning to go for a run! I need all the tips I can get 😉

https://youtu.be/C-Cvl3_CH2A

Always curious about natural beauty.

Bel from @5totry went full time freelance this week, which is so inspiring… loved this interview she did with @rust_creative.

Loving this beautiful blog.

@gyanyankovich shared this Life Hacker post in her newsletter… so interesting! Habits are funny, I like them, but I find it hard to maintain them. Relatable.

Who else has signed up to Sam’s 5 Day Challenge (for personal development, not exercise or anything silly like that 😅). I can’t wait! Join us by signing up here.

Hope you enjoy browsing through some of these links…. definitely short and sweet this week, but life is just busy at the moment you guys! Not much spare time for reading blogs or watching Youtube… my go-to Internet habit is a scroll through Insta before bed…. oops.

Happy weekend!

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And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

#NoBuy Update: Week 3

ROLLY Mag

Friday, February 15th: I did so well today, in that I went into the city and bought no clothes, beauty etc. however, I did have an expensive meal out and paid my bestie back for getting us tickets to Julia Michaels. So it was speedy, but no on everyday occurrences.

Saturday, February 16th: Work, work, work and shop in my mind lolll!

Sunday, February 17th: No buy except for groceries which are necessities!

Monday, February 18th: Work = no buy!

Tuesday, February 19th: Ok, so my good habits were undone by another city adventure today. Cafe, Priceline (I bought vitamins and took advantage of that Lanolips buy one, get one free- too good to miss!), Ikea (food) and Cotton On Body where I bought the satin pillow case an eye mask set (which I’ve had my eye on!)- however I used my $10 voucher (which was due to expire) and so got it for a bargain. Pretty restrained lol.

Wednesday, February 20th: Spent money on food- what’s new. (But no beauty- despite the temptation!)

Thursday, February 21st: Worked and so, did not spend!

Although I am still buying things during my No Buy, they are definitely considered purchases.

If I had’ve tracked my spending from last month, you would understand that this is an improvement! Looking back at the amount I used to buy honestly makes me feel sick! I am proud of my efforts so far- and will definitely be continuing with these restrictive habits once February is over.

I thought I would splurge come March 1st, but that will definitely not be the case. this is because two things have become to clear to me during this No Buy: 1) money is hard to earn yet easy to spend and 2) my drugstore purchases are healthier for my bank than luxury. I have never purchased anything over $20 from Mecca or Sephora… I know! The reason for that is, simply, I can’t bear to part with $80 on a facial moisturiser, especially when working in retail, that would have taken about 8 hours to earn.

I definitely have a long way to go when it comes to spending, but I’m getting better. Perhaps next month I should focus on reducing the amount I spend on food… dun dun!

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The Online Due of Inspo

ROLLY Mag

@halliekwilson, @mmmmtan

A few weeks ago, I shared the magazines that first established my love for writing. I talked about how I joined this online space because I wanted to create what I loved to read in magazines. So today, I want to share the first blog and the first podcast that I discovered. Because they have had just as much impact on me personally in my late teen years, as magazines had on my early teens.

THE BLOG

I really wish I could remember how I first discovered Hallie’s blog, back when it was Coral & Cognacs. I can’t remember how, but this blog is all I can remember from my early days on the internet. I read it religiously. The Friday column “Cool Sh!t to Share” is what inspires my “Week Latte” posts.

Hallie was (IS!) my ultimate girl boss inspo. She was living and working in NYC when I started reading. She was fashionable, single and living my dream. On the blog, her life seemed perfect.

But then she shared her rejection from a job, in a new field to what she’d previously known, which she had her heart set on. Reading that post, I understood the importance of not believing everything you see. Hallie was hurting, but her blog carried on merrily. More than that, I related to her rejection. She was raw and honest and I appreciated that immensely.

Then Hallie shared her journey in new jobs, new cities etc and I still read every post with great enthusiasm. She transitioned to “Among Other Things” at a time when I was also “growing up” and moving on.

I love her style of writing and the format of posts. Once I messaged her, telling her how much I loved her blog, and she was so grateful- offering me a workout class on her if I was ever in Chicago. I cannot tell you how much that meant to me. Having a blogger- a person- I admire so much, read and respond to my comment had me a little star struck.

Now, Hallie is on an overseas work adventure that seems to cool! This girl has made me want to be a fitness instructor (and lol I don’t even love fitness that much) as well as venture abroad for working opportunities- I am so thankful to her for opening my eyes to the world and new opportunities. I can practically tribute my entire “travel bucket list” to Hallie and her adventures.

She has been my biggest inspiration, and I still think “I want to be like Hallie when I grow up.”

THE PODCAST

One day, in 2016 I was on a walk around a lake with my mum. She was listening to a podcast and suggested I should too. I’d never really heard of them before. But I pulled up the Podcast app on my phone and scrolled until I found Millennial… and fell in love. From then on, I would listen to the podcast on the bus on my way to school of a morning, because I had a few episodes to catch up on. Then, once I had caught up with the most recent podcast, I sort of stopped listening for no particular reason (This took place over about 4 months).

Then on the 2nd of January 2018, we went back to the lake and I listened to Millennial again for the first time in nearly a year. And I realised that I was listening to the final ever episode of Millennial, albeit 5 months after it was released. I couldn’t believe the full circle moment that had occurred. And honestly, writing this now too, I can’t believe it has been a full year since I listened for the last time.

However, that day by the lake a year ago will not be the last time I listen to Millennial. Because it was such a comfort and source of advice for me; that I may just come back again (and again) to listen. It introduced me to the world of radio broadcasting and journalism; taught me about faith, courage and buying a car. Thank you, Millennial. For everything.

I honestly mean what I say about Hallie and Megan… I owe a lot of my confidence, knowledge and passion to them.

I would love to know the first blog/podcast/Youtube channel you ever followed… and how it shaped you. Comment below!

Big love xx

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Week Latte #7

ROLLY Mag

Another busy week! I had plenty of reading time earlier this week but the latter half has been hectic! I’m looking forward to some chill on Sunday 🙏 Hope you’ve had a lovely week, enjoy the links!

Drugstore products sounds right up my street! And I really admire how well informed Arna is. Check it her video on swapping her Drunk Elephant routine for drugstore skincare for a month here.

Need some comic relief? Jack’s got you covered! Not a massive fan of Ari myself, but appreciated this.

I mentioned on my stories a week or so ago that I kinda do Intermittent Fasting. Mostly because it streamlines my mornings, not having to faff around and prepare breakfast. This was a easy to digest (#puns) read if you’re interested in knowing more about fasts.

Bad dates are just too funny- loved reading this piece by Man Repeller. I also really enjoy Jase and PJ’s “Date Refund” segment on the radio. Other people’s trivial misfortune can be rather entertaining, anyone else agree?

I really want to create monthly checklists like this in my bullet journal, it’s so motivating!! I’ll start in March… 😬 This link was shared via Ella’s Weekend Reading List last week.

This is such a refreshing read by Laura! I, too, can get caught up in the hype of products… but just because something isn’t a ‘new release’ doesn’t mean I won’t read the review, you know?

I really got interested in researching ‘health foods’ this week. Number one on my list, was apple cider vinegar. i’ve tried it once before, and swore off it based on the taste. However, I enjoyed reading this personal experiment as well as these alternative uses for the liquid. In fact, really enjoyed this website for a lot of health-related facts.

Similarly, since Sarah’s Day released Body Bloom earlier this week, I’ve been trying to find a cheaper alternative- hers was $67! Which I would pay… just not right now- let’s wait six weeks for the re stock 😉 I found this Skin Physics one on sale at Priceline, and- from what I could see- has been recommended by various outlets online. However, I don’t think collagen-boosting products are really targeted at my demographic! Yet, I’m interested.

Not sure that I would buy this pack purely because of the colour… but such a good deal- $9 for a lip liner and lipstick by Savvy at Priceline!

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hellorollymag@gmail.com

#NoBuy Update: Week 2

ROLLY Mag

We’re halfway through the #NoBuy- hurrah!

Friday, February 8th: I was at work all day, so no spending occurred- hurrah!

Saturday, February 9th: Ventured out of the house but told my family I didn’t want to go anywhere tempting haha- bought zero!

Sunday, February 10th: Went grocery shopping with a list… stuck it mostly. Picked up raisin toast as an addition, and didn’t buy spinach because it was sad and wilted. So money was spent, but wisely. And not on beauty, which is the main thing!

Monday, February 11th: Working = nothing bought

Tuesday, February 12th: Had plans to go city shopping with my bestie, but cancelled because 1) the stormy weather and 2) I knew it was a recipe for disaster! However, we have rescheduled for next Tuesday… dun dun dun! Also, Sarah’s Day Body Bloom came on sale today, which I was tempted by… but the $67 price tag turned me off big time haha. However, I did research some alternatives which I may buy this month- but that’s *healthy* so surely it doesn’t count? Also, Woolies has 1/2 price on Maybelline which is sooo tempting- luckily I live a difficult distance away from one. And also, the new Mecca palette was released. And Ultraviolet sunscreen is all over my IG feed. Lots of distractions today, my friends. But! I DID NOT GIVE IN- I ate my feelings instead lollll.

Wednesday, February 13th: Tempted at work. Particularly by Flower Beauty oh myyyyy. Stay strong.

Thursday, February 14th: Happy Valentine’s Dayyyyyyy! Honestly, my second favourite celebration of the year (and second only to Easter!) Worked all day, which usually equals a successful day of #NoBuy-ing. But did have dinner out for the special occasion. Plus, spent money on my brother’s bday gift – all worth it and excluded in my #NoBuy. However, I went to Woolies and bought $12.50 Maybelline Lash Serum (on sale, I’m intrigued! And a sucker for a gimmick! And, an unplanned purchase, SUP “That Time of The Month” vitamins on sale for $19. Never heard of this before- but I will let you know how I find it! I’m happy with these purchases- more so how I resisted all the temptation. Remember how I said that if I bought something on the 14th, for example, I would extend my #NoBuy by that many days… yeah, scrap that.

Overall, this week was a successful one- woo! However, there was LOTS of temptation… stay off the Internet and IG if you want to stick to your #NoBuy, is my best advice haha.

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

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hellorollymag@gmail.com

Words in Deep Blue- A Review

ROLLY Mag, Wordy Wednesday

A few years ago, I went to the Williamstown Literary Festival- which solidified my absolute LOVE for reading and writing. There I met a few Aussie authors (such as Andy Griffiths and Markus Zusak *fangirl*) including Cath Crowley. ‘Graffiti Moon’ was the first book of hers that I’d read. I loved it.

But, admittedly, I forgot about reading her others. Until I saw ‘Words in Deep Blue’ on my local library shelves. It’s been patiently waiting in the TBR pile since late January…

I am so happy I finally picked dit up. I started reading it late Saturday night, but had to stop because I was, ahem, crying so much. I picked it up again on Sunday morning and finished it.

I do want to add, as a disclaimer, I was full to the brim with uni-related stress and frustration, and so my tears mayyyyy have been due to some suppressed emotions that were entirely seperate to the book itself hahah. Nonetheless, it was a great emotional outlet.

I sobbed my way through the last 50 pages- and this I know was because of the book.

The expression of grief and it’s complexity was so raw, that you couldn’t help but imagine it for yourself.

And the process of loss and grief… how we try to make sense of it- was beautiful. The characters were so emotive and thoughtful.

Henry and Rachel felt just like myself. A combination of them created me. But I think every reader would feel like this. Maybe you gravitate to one more so than the other.

I thought that one sub plot was predictable. But that didn’t make it hurt any less. And I didn’t mind.

Perhaps my favourite nuance of the novel was Henry’s broad vocabulary, but he replied heavily upon the word “shit”.

It made me laugh a lot.

It felt real.

I think I related particularly to the characters because of them being in a post- Year 12 stage of life, and being set in Melbourne. It felt like they could’ve been my peers, friends even.

I, as a teenager myself, can be particularly critical of ‘old people’s’ attempts at recreating adolescents. Take, To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before… would Peter Kavinsky reallllly have been waiting in the hot tub for Lara Jean? Teenages everywhere: heck no.

But, Crowley’s depiction of young adulthood was SPOT ON. She even made a dusty book store cupboard feel romantic. (Book stores are romantic, full stop, in my opinion).

And so for that, added an atmosphere to the novel that felt especially true- to me.

Similarly, sometimes, I am frustrated by happy endings in books. It’s all too cliche.

But I am so grateful that Rachel and Henry got their happy ending. Happy is not particularly exact- but they got they’re neatly tied with a bow, perfect in the present ending. Which they deserve.

PS. When I write a book review, I don’t want to critique the author. I just want to share my thoughts and feelings.

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The No Buy Wishlist

ROLLY Mag, Tick it off Tuesday

During the month of February, I am doing a “no buy”… ie. no shopping for the entire month! It’s a struggle, for a bargain hunter and shopaholic like me. Anddddd there are plenty of distractions this month too- Valentine’s Day, brothers birthday, back to work, back to uni etc etc. Usually, those occasions would call for some shopping- but having to restrict myself is hard when the opportunity is so tempting. To clarify, I can shop for other people during this no buy- like my brother for his birthday- just not for myself.

However, there are a few items I currently have my eye on- and if they were to go on sale during this time- I would STRUGGLE to say no.

I was going to call this post “no buy exceptions” as I had two items in mind that I really wanted. But then, the list grew. And suddenly we ended up here- and exceptions are not in the rules so here this is a wishlist instead.

You may have seen in my Organisation Haul that I was conflicted as to which Typo pencil case to buy… still am.

Next up, this gorgeously soft Kmart dressing gown… it has a hood, you guys, therefore- I need it.

You know how I am using uni as an excuse for many of my recent shopping habits- this face mask is no exception. I am going to be in the city more therefore I NEED an anti pollution face mask. (Update… bought it in the Priceline sale… on the final day of January!)

Similarly, if my face ever tinted lip balm goes on sale, how do I say no?

I have been eyeing up this Forever New tote for a while, as I don’t have anything like it. The price is just a bit scary.

And then there’s this Sportsgirl bag, which- BTW- is totally different to the one above. Also scary price. Impatiently waiting for the sale.

That’s the thing with me and shopping- I want and want and want. I create Wishlist and then I buy the things- thinking that’s all I’ll ever need- then the next thing comes out and once again the vicious cycle continues. Which is why, it’s so important I challenge myself to the “no buy”. I’ve recognised my bad habits (step 1), now I just have to overcome them.

I’ll keep you updated 😉

How’s your “no buy” going? Let me know in the comments!

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hellorollymag@gmail.com

#ProjectPan Month 1

ROLLY Mag

Hello friends!

In an effort to be a more consumer this year, I am joining the Instagram community’s hashtag #ProjectPan and trying to ‘hit pan’ and/or ‘use up’ some of my makeup products.

Easier said than done, particularly when I rarely actually ever wear makeup.

Since stating my new jobs, I have been wearing makeup about 4 times per week (very out of the ordinary for me!)

So now that I am wearing it more frequently, I am hoping to atcually make a dent in my collection. However, I have noticed my skin has become *textured*- perhaps as a result of makeup? It’s not pimples as such, but agh I can’t explain it any other way that texture!! It could be due to other factors, but I am definitely contributing more frequent use of makeup as one!

So, for this post I thought I would quickly update you on the products I posted in my #ProjectPan initial blog post… as well as some new additions!

My primer, BB cream and bronzer I showed you in that post still haven’t been used up. However, I’m not upset about it- I knew this would happen as I simply don’t wear makeup often enough to use it up in a month. However, using it the last two weeks (at least 4 times per week), I have noticed a significant reduction in the products… and hope that by next month, I will have finished the BB cream at least.

The primer is hard to use up because you only use such a little bit at a time. And the bronzer, I would like to hit pan on by the end of the year… that sounds crazy but I think it’s also reflective of my makeup usage haha.

Two new additions to my #ProjectPan line up are skincare related.

First, this Natio Young Oil Free Moisturiser. It does the job, but it isn’t particularly indulgent or pampering (understandable, considering the target demographic.) So I am keen to use this up so I can move onto my Glow Lab night cream!

And secondly, this Sukin Natural Deodorant I have had for agesssss. Similarly to primer, I use it frequently (ie. everyday) but only a little bit at time. Personally, this is the only natural deodorant I’ve ever tried. I like how it smells, the spray application is a little tricky but I don’t find it drips too much, yet I do use it in combination with my usual Nivea deodorant. I would repurchase for the smell alone, and because it is rather cheap, however, not for effectiveness.

How are you going with your #ProjectPan? Comment below… and I’ll see you again in month’s time for another update!

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hellorollymag@gmail.com