Today is a new day

It is a new day. It is a new month. A new start. I am holding myself accountable.

Less screen time more family time
Less social media more living in the present time
More journaling my thoughts means self-care me time to clear my thoughts


here I go!

6 Months later

So much can change over a few minutes, hours, days, month, year - you get the point. I have been missing out on writing because my hands been full; literally, with a new addition to the family.

As I find some "me" time I thought I'd eventually share my experiences of life now. Stay tuned

Time

What do you do to pass the time and relax? Do you read? Cook? Play games? Movie marathon?

Blog maintenance

Few things might look like it's missing or broken - just trying to fix up my dated site ;)

Pizza

What's your ideal pizza? Lets get creative

Stay on track

How do you keep motivated and productive? Do you start right away or procrastinate until that few hours before you rush to complete a task or put it off again?


For myself I do a mix of both. I have drafts and notes of things to do stuck on sticky notes or memos on my phone. Some I start but then life takes over and it gets put aside until later.

Share some of your tips below

Gratitude Journal

COMING SOON

New Year Resolutions

Do you make resolutions or goals?

Years in Review

I've been reflecting. Where I am in life. Where I want to be. How do I want to proceed with my blog, career, and personal life.


I guess we'll wait and see

Happy New Year 2019!

It's been roughly over 2 years since I've blogged. So much has changed over these few years that something inside me had wanted to come back to writing.


Day 1 of 365. Here we go...

2014, the year of opportunities

"cause in the end we're just lines and circles... " - Lines and Circles, O-Town

Here I sit, writing. It's a few more hours until the new year. It seems pretty cliche writing this especially since the "new year" is upon us. Yes, it's a time to reflect. A time to review your year. As a blogger, lets be honest, my lack of blogging this year was very absent. As much as I wanted to I couldn't, could of. Life really took over. My year began with a rocky start, the thoughts of the known. Few days ago marked a year and I continue to pray and have hope. Life does continue.

As I think back, this year was... pretty awesome. Sure I've had ups and downs but who hasn't? If I were to compare this year to last year, I believe this year I took my own advice. Something I didn't think or know I CAN do.

Too many life events happened that I wish I blogged about but didn't. I, was living in the moment and didn't want to miss any of it. Opportunities, opportunities I thought would never happen. The opportunity to take courage, to take charge. The opportunity to finally travel (staycations to me count!). The opportunity of being a secret shopper. The opportunity of meeting musicians I grew up listening to. Opportunities of meeting people and continue to "grow old" with family and friends. It was the year of opportunities.

When I look back to this post for whatever reason, for whatever emotions I may be going through in the years to come. The journey continues. Don't worry for tomorrow. Live now. Live today.

Share your thoughts :  Twitter | E-Mail | Instagram | Blog

REVIEW: Anker Astro E5 Portable External Battery

Being on the go and very dependent on my cellphone, I can guarantee 65% of my device's battery will be drained before noon. I had researched for months, read countless reviews, compared prices and decided to purchase an external battery.

What I considered when making this purchase (not sponsor purchase):
Power - enough voltage for at least a day or two in case I forget to recharge overnight
on-the-go - Being able to put this in my pocket or bag and not worry my device battery dying as I'm out
Wall outlet availability- I'm paranoid of leaving my electronics charging in public/someone's house. Never know who has access to it, or gosh forbid mistakenly take it. Trust me, I have gone to a store or cafe to find a free outlet and have sat there for 10 odd minutes just to get some battery life.
Car charger - GPS/gadgets plugged in &/or the constant in-and-out from the car, devices don't get a decent charge.

Being such a techy, I was happy to add the newest addition, Anker Astro E5 15000mAh External Battery

Anker Astro E5 15000mAh External Battery

Cost
Invested for more voltage at the lowest cost. I had compared different brands and sizes. Anker was one of the top 3 list.

15000mAh voltage
It had arrived pre-charged, so I was ready to go. After 4-5hours to fully charge, I found this external battery can last about a week of heavy use until I need to recharge it. As it's charging I'm also able to plug my device in to charge as well.

Various sizes (from handheld to 10")
Anker Astro E5 is the size of a portable harddrive with two (2) charging ports. Unfortunately, it isn't pants pocket friendly but it's powerful to not leave home without it. So I don't mind at all.

Device Compatibility
Two charging ports, the ability to charge multiple devices that have a usb cord. It arrived with device adapters to help you get started (micro, mini, and ipod). From my experience, it became a popular item during an offsite work trip. Ratio of available outlets were less than the amount of people attending.

Available colours
Anker Astro is aviable in two (2) colours, white and black. I purchased the Black. Very sleek looking but also a fingerprint magnetic.

Extra light
During power outages, this device not only charges your devices it also has an LED flashlight too! What a bright idea, no pun intended.

Are you interested looking to purchase an external battery? Do you already own one?
Share your thoughts :  Twitter | E-Mail | Blog

Despicable Me - Agnes Costume

#itsCherzDIY - Halloween Costume

Despicable Me - Agnes

Items purchased from (Talize) local thrift store during their 50%off select colour tags sale.
2 pairs jeans
1 yellow and grey striped shirt ( I was in luck!)

Overalls: Check out my tutorial on how I created overalls with 2 pairs of jeans.
Shirt: you can always paint the stripes on

Have you done a DIY costume?

Tutorial: DIY Overalls with 2 Jeans

DIY Overalls

#itsCherzDIY Creating overalls with two pairs of jeans. Yes, 2! Personally I find it quite difficult to find overalls. Sure I can visit my local workwear store or hope overalls are back in stock and style (again). Of course I wanted to create something that was versatile without breaking my wallet.

This project took me about 2-3hours to do, including the shopping ;)

Note: Items used in this tutorial were purchased on my own from a local thrift shop and dollar store.



 
Materials Required:

• sewing kit, sewing machine, OR glue gun
• fabric scissors (any pair of scissors)
• measuring tape / ruler
• marker / pen
• velcro
• 2 jeans similar shade
• Optional: newspaper/cardboard to protect flat surface of glue and scratches  

DIY Overalls with 2 Jeans - Materials

Project Tips:

You can start with jeans you currently own and work with adding in the overall part. Do what you feel comfortable with.

Jeans Tips:

1 pair, current fit or loose fit [JEANS X]

1 pair, very loose fit [ JEANS Y]

Materials Preparation:

• Put aside JEANS X
• Cut 6 pieces of velcro, about 1-inch length

Steps - Overall Chest: 

1. Take JEANS Y back pockets facing up.
2. Take a ruler/measuring tape and mark the length you'd like, leaving about 1- 1.5 inches (for tucking inside JEANS X)
3. Cut JEANS Y (Photo: see green lines).

Steps - Overall Straps:

1. JEANS Y: using the pant leg, measure 1- inch in width and cut length wise up the pant leg (x 2)
2. Optional: fold if you need thinner or thicker straps

Steps - Piecing Together:

1. Using the marker: Mark where you'd like to place the velcro. Don't worry if you make mistakes this will be all inside JEANS X. Total of 4 marks, 2 back, 2 front.
2. Using velcro soft-furry side: sew/glue velcro at the markings. Using the soft velcro on JEANS X will prevent scratching when overalls chest is detached ;)
3. Using velcro scratchy-side: sew/glue of velcro to both ends of straps [x4], back of overall chest [x2]
4. Add the back straps to JEANS X, leaving strap ends hanging. Once jeans are on, tuck/attach overall chest. Taking the strap ends hanging from your back, attach to overall chest. 

Share your Overall results :  Twitter | E-Mail | Blog
These overalls were used as apart of my Despicable Me Agnes costume

Thrift Shopper Meets Toronto Premium Outlets

Toronto Premium Outlets

Toronto Premium Outlets - Food Court
9am vs 11:30am

Last weekend I ventured to the Toronto Premium Outlets, in Halton Hills. Yes, just bit of a drive away from Toronto. I wasn't sure what to expect, except it would be busy.


As a thrift shopper, outlet shopping is also a great place to find deals. Unfortunately, I can't give my opinion on price comparison from the US vs. Canada since I haven't experienced outlet shopping south of the border.

Upon arrival, it was PACKED! Lets factor in, it was 2 days after the main grand opening and/or it was long weekend. I arrived 30 minutes before stores would open and the parking lots were full. Imagine, Boxing Day or Black Friday. There were lines already at  Coach, Michael Korrs, Kate Spade, and Tommy Hilfiger. Food Court (building) offered any type of craving, from pasta/pizza, sandwiches, to sushi. There was also food trucks on site (for that weekend). Guest Services also offered coupon books for V.I.P members. There was also pamphlets that I found useful that contained sizing charts conversions. The outlets lot is well planned, that you can't get lost. If you haven't been to an outlet, picture one floor mall, a well connected outdoor plaza. There were a few "Coming Soon" signs at some stores but there are enough stores currently open to shop for everyone in your family. As I wandered, aimlessly, throughout the different wings of the outlets one thought came to mind.... would you still shop during inclement weather? 

 
Ready to venture out?
Remember, patience!
You made it out here to shop, so remember that ;)

Target Canada Experience & Exclusives

Over the past few weeks Target Canada have been doing their "soft openings". Like many shoppers, curiosity and excitement hit... and ventured to the Target location that was opening.

I went with an open mind, I wasn't sure what to expect since
1) I don't travel... :(
2) Curious to see what brands from Target USA were arriving
3) Pricing! ;)

Walking through the doors...
When I first arrived to the store, I/we were greeted by Target staff. A friendly hello does change your "shopping" mood ;) I also noticed there were available wipes for those who wanted to disinfect their hands &/or cart! LOVE IT! As I walked aimlessly throughout the store, staff would stop and ask if I needed help or if I needed a basket (by this time I had found chocolates that I was slowly melting ha.ha.).

I spent a good hour in the Beauty department looking at the lovely lit-up displays. The aisles had various drugstore brands (Annabelle, Marcelle, Revlon, Maybelline etc) and brands new to Canada (Sonia Kashuk, Pixie Beauty and [more] NYX).

Few things that caught my eye:

Target Canada Exclusives from Annabelle Cosmetics & Marcelle Cosmetics

NYX displays
more items available from primers to matte eyeshadows/lipsticks

NYC eyeshadows palettes

Sonia Kashuk

Since this was a soft opening - there was enough items to select from. Pricing was decent to pick up a few items or two. I can't wait for the grand opening later next month for more selection and deals.

How was your Target Canada experience?

Tutorial: Device Stand (for Cellphones / Tablets / Playbook / iPads)

Working in digital media/web design, I have the opportunity own/barrow devices to test my work. Personally, I have such a small workspace to begin with and having unknown amount of devices to be placed flat on my desk (with my laptop, drawing tablet, papers etc…) has become an inconvenience and takes up too much room. Also, I would have to constantly look downwards causing some strain both eyes/neck. Sure I can spend a few dollars to buy an individual device stand or device cases with built-it-stands but it adds up.

The results of this DIY: not only did I end up with a travel headphone case but a travel stand too. Yes, a 2-in-1 DIY ;)

Items purchased cost less than $3 in total. Most items you can find at home.


What you'll need/Materials used:
-    Metal pliers or scissors ($1-1.50)
-    Headphone case box – I found this at a local Dollarama for $1
-    Pencil or pen (No Markers!)
-    Glasses / Protective glasses / Sunglasses (if it’s sunny) *optional



Steps

Step 1:
Hold the device close to the center of the box. If you own (or barrow) more than one device use the device with the thicker width. In this case, I’m using the Blackberry Playbook.

Trace/draw lines of the device onto the box with your pencil/pen. I refrained from using any marker as I was paranoid of getting markings on the device screen. We don’t want that!!! Make sure you have a total of 4 lines (2 for each side – front & back).

 

Step 2:
*You may want to put on your glasses/protective eyewear, small plastic do fly in unknown directions while cutting.*

Use the wire cutters/scissors to cut along the “inner section/side” of the drawn lines and stopping at the base. After you cut along lines, wiggle the “piece” to get it out.

Step 3:
Place your device in the stand. Ensure it’s placed equally balanced on both ends. If it seems too snug, repeat Step 3 by trimming plastic sides slowly.


Let me know if you try this out: E-Mail | Twitter | Blog


Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Sammy Dress - Holiday Haul

Prior to the holiday season I went through a couple of wardrobe phases:
1st - reorganize and donate any clothing and accessories that don't fit or I never wore.
2nd - was to update parts of my wardrobe with pieces that will have multiple uses.
3rd - find affordable pieces that won't let my wallet cry.

After some late night browser (aka window) shopping (online), I had stumbled upon SammyDress.com . Not only did they have various items at a low price but they also offered free shipping. As a Canadian online shopping, I'm usually turned off but the high postage rates. The unfortunate part to this... is the wait time for the package(s) to arrive. Usually packages sent from overseas take about 2-4 weeks. Since I shopped at holiday-peak-time, I was actually surprised it arrived right before the holidays. The company's customer service were able to quickly answer my questions and concerns I had regarding my orders.

So here goes...

I am in LOVE with this Wallet/Clutch
Slightly bigger than I expected. More of a clutch than a wallet.
2 zipped pockets for cash, ids, cards, makeup. 1 middle pocket to hold your cell.
magnetic flap to close everything together.

Set 1 of earrings :)

Set 2 of earrings :)

Disclaimer: These items featured in this blog post were purchased with my own money. Items and company review are my own honest opinion and experience. This is not a paid, sponsored post.

If the boots fit

These boots were made for walking...

I spotted these boots at a local thrift store, Talize. It immediately caught my eye, from the detailing (buckles and metal trims) to style (low heel!). It was also a great price ;) Unfortunately, I didn't purchase these boots, it didn't fit my feet (darn small feet!).

Cinderella if you're out there looking for boots (size6), these boots are waiting for you :)
LUCKY YOU!

2012.. in a nutshell

So another year has come to an "end" and a new year has begun.

Although, I made it one of my goals at the beginning of 2012 to be more active on my blog - unfortunately it didn't pan out that way. I am thankful for all the opportunities I had and have: from growing friendships, meeting new bloggers, attending various events, learning about new companies & products. I thank everyone: loyal subscribers/readers, visitors who read a blog post or more, blog sale purchasers, and new visitors who just stumbled across my blog.

Keynotes of 2012

"Name change"
This blog can also be found on itscherz.ca ; as well as; twitter @itscherz


"Hit Pan/Shop Stash"
If you don't already follow me on twitter (@itscherz) I had tweeted I was on a hit pan roll. From January to about July/August I noticed I was hitting pans/tubes of products.

Products included:(no particular order)

• Annabelle Mono Eyeshadow pan in Vanilla Chilla
• E.L.F Mineral Eyeshadow Primer in Sheer
• Wet N Wild Color Blusher in Mellow Wine
• Revlon eyeliner pen Blackest Black
• Marcelle Cosmetics BB Sample tube in Light Medium
• Annabelle SmudgePaint in Tar
• Annabelle Smoothliner Bronze *HG
• Wet N Wild Eyeliner
• Maybelline Falsies Mascara
• Essence Waterproof Mascara
• Annabelle Le Big Show Mascara

Due to personal life changes in the later half of 2012, I resorted more towards shopping my makeup stash more and continued to think of DIY projects/thrift shopping.

Hello 2013

I do hope to be able to share these projects in the next few weeks. I will continue to share what I love to do and can't wait for what 2013 will bring :)

Happy New Year everyone!
E-Mail | Twitter | Blog