Snow Leopard

Sally Hansen: Greige

OPI: Alpine Snow

Black Sharpie

Winter Blues

Sally Hansen: Frozen Solid

Sinful Colors: Ice Dream

Starbucks Flat White

Hi Everyone! If you haven't heard already, Starbucks has just debuted a new coffee item on their menu - The Flat White. I had heard of a flat white when I was travelling around Australia in 2009, but had never been brave enough to try one. After a bit of digging around, I found that a flat white sounded exactly like something that I would enjoy. I love lattés, but sometimes find the foam a little annoying. A flat white is basically a latté, but without foam, and made with whole milk and 2 shots of espresso instead of 1.

I tried my first flat white last week, and absolutely loved it! It was rich and creamy, but not too overpowering. It gave me the perfect amount of caffeine that I needed for my afternoon. It was truly a perfect balance between espresso and milk. The flat white was a little sweeter, more flavourful and a bit velvety in texture compared to the standard latté. Naturally, when I went back to Starbucks this week I ordered another flat white, but this time I really did not like my coffee. It tasted almost completely like milk. Where did the espresso go? 

Now, I understand that making any specialty coffee drink is an art, and that sometimes tastes can differ depending on the barista but I don't know how the same drink could taste so different! A lot of articles I've read have mentioned that the flat white is something that can't be made in mass production. It's really a specialty drink that some cafes are known for. Can Starbucks rise to this challenge?

I'm not sure why the flat white was a hit and then a miss but I don't think I'll take a chance again. Has anyone else had this happen to them?

Delicate Snowflakes

Rococo: Lab Nude 1.0 Sheer Gloss

OPI: Alpine Snow

New Year, New Hair

My heart is filled with so many different emotions right now and let me explain why. Over the Christmas holidays I cut off all my hair (around 14 inches) to donate to an amazing organization called A Child's Voice Foundation. This group runs a program called Angel Hair for Kids, which collects hair and financial donations to provide wigs to children suffering from hair loss caused by treatment or medical conditions. All of the wigs are given to financially disadvantaged children without any expense to them.

As we grow older we learn that beauty comes from within, but sometimes it's hard to understand that as a child. This program is the only one of its kind in Canada, and offers a way to boost a child's self esteem while going through a difficult time. Every Angel Hair for Kids recipient receives a personal appointment at a salon that specializes in wigs and hair loss. The child and family are able to select a wig or hair loss solution and then are fitted to the hair prosthesis. The wig is styled especially for that child, making it their own hair.

Over the past few weeks I have thought a lot about the hardships that these children may face in their day to day life. It reminded me to be thankful for everything I have been given, and to share with others. This small gesture is one step towards making a difference for someone.

Thank you Aveda for my new haircut, and a special thank you to A Child's Voice Foundation for all the work you do! You have no doubt brought smiles to many young (and old) faces!

Frosted Pink Chevron

Sally Hansen: Pink Satin

OPI: Alpine Snow