As this blog is mainly dominated by make-up filled rambles, I thought it might be quite nice to mention some of the other little things in my life that have been making me happy recently...

It might be a bit of a blogger cliché, but peonies are my favourite flowers. In recent months i've found myself falling in love with fresh flowers and can't resist buying a bunch to brighten up the house. Whenever I walk past them and catch a glimpse they just make me feel happy - money well spent! 

I've had my Peanuts themed Moleskin diary since the beginning of the year but I'm still just as besotted with it as I was in January. The thought of reaching the end of the year and having to buy a new one makes me quite sad as i've become rather attached! I love all things Moleskin so the added cuteness of Snoopy just makes it irresistible! 

What small things have you been finding happiness in recently?

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When it comes to eye make-up, it's usually a lot more fun to apply than it is to remove. Bring Waterproof mascara into the equation and it can easily become nothing less than a nightmare. And what's worse, is the far too common occurrence of waking up in the morning with panda-like rings around your eyes despite the five minute battle with the cotton pad and remover the night before. In an attempt to put an end to the dread of nightly make-up removal, I finally purchased the highly recommended Clarins Instant Eye Make-up remover. At £18 a bottle, I've been avoiding buying this for a while - not because I was sceptical of its magical removing abilities, but because I was worried it would become a costly re-purchase. And, to cut it short, I was right! This stuff is preeetty amazing. It removes heavy eye makeup and even waterproof mascara in a quick and easy sweep. No stinging, irritation or rubbing involved (and I have rather sensitive eyes). Oh, and it smells pretty good too.

So as much as this is going to be a costly addition to my routine, I think i'm okay with that. After all, anything that stops me looking like i'm trying to resemble a panda when I get out of the swimming pool is a indisputable necessity... right?! 

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For foundation, I have been (predictably) reaching for Giorgio Armani's Luminous Silk Foundation. This is hands down my favourite foundation, ever. I'm on my third bottle of the stuff as it's basically flawless skin in a bottle (full rave review here). In  an attempt to keep melting makeup to a minimum, i've been applying the tinniest amount - just enough to cover redness and imperfections but not enough to cause a mess if things get a bit heated. 

For eyes, i've been using the Nars Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base before applying a few sweeps of Mac's Paint Pot in Vintage Selection for a combination that can withstand the heat without creasing or fading. If I have the time in the morning (rare), i'll then add a fine line of Rimmel's exaggerate waterproof Eye Definer to my upper lash line for a little extra definition before swiping on a few coats of L'oreal's Volume Million Lashes mascara. I love trying out new mascara, but this is the one I always come back to. It lengthens and thickens without clumping or smudging throughout the day. 

And to finish, a sheer wash of Clinique's Cheek Pop in Plum Pop on the cheeks and a layer of Tom Fords sheer lipstick in Spring Fling add a touch of colour that's perfect for summer.

What have you been wearing recently?

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I've been in love with blush for a while now, but when it comes to the application, I've never really found the the right brush. I have quite a small face, so often blush brushes tend to be a little bit on the large side which usually leads to slightly overly flushed cheeks (not the best look I assure you). However, after recent pursuit of the beauty isles for a more pea-head friendly offering, I think i've finally found the perfect blush brush.

The Bobbi Brown Sheer Powder Brush might not be strictly a dedicated blush brush, but team it up with the powdery pink stuff and small proportioned cheeks and it works wonders. The (suuuuper) soft bristles apply just the right amount of pigment whilst the smaller size and tapered shape means that it's easy to blend without covering half you face in blush in the process. It's made specifically for a sheer application, so if you're a bit blush shy or simply a little heavy handed you might just find this brush the perfect option. 

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It's no secret around these parts that I have a slight problem when it comes to buying copious amounts of lip balm. It would appear that I haven't quite managed to extinguish the obsession just yet as another balm offering has found it's way into my hands.

I have to admit, the sleek silver packaging did play a worryingly large part in encouraging the purchase, though luckily Clinique's Repairwear Intensive Lip Treatment isn't all looks and no substance. When it comes lip balm, By Terry's Baume de Rose (closely followed by Nuxe's Reve de Miel) is pretty much as good as it gets. I can't go a day without the stuff. The only problem? It might be a little pot of goodness but it's a pot all the same - not the most hygienic for when you're out and about. Until now I haven't found anything that comes close to By Terry's offering but in tube form. That's where Clinique's Repairwear Intensive Lip Treatment comes in. A long lasting, highly nourishing lip balm that presents itself in a handy (and pretty) roll up tube. It's virtually Baume de Rose in a stick, just without the rose scent.

Clinique advises that the lip treatment is used twice daily, Am and Pm, but i've been applying it several times throughout the day. It instantly soothes dry lips and creates a great base for other lip products. I don't think i'll be leaving the house without it from now on.

So in short, this stuff is bloody good, and (may I add) a completely justified purchase as it's a conveniently hygienic version of my all time favourite balm. Good job I haven't been to lip balm rehab just yet...

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