A VERY ZOMBIE HOLIDAY

I know I post this up every year but hey it still makes me giggle.  So sit back and enjoy your christmas eve where ever you are and of course watch out for zombies.

Seeing (RED) this month

 

Nope I'm not talking about Christmas decorations or the stress while trying to find a car park when Christmas shopping.  I'm talking about (RED) and the amazing work that is being done in Africa; as well as December 1st being international AIDS day.  I first discovered this movement about 5 years ago, however I have been a long supporter of International AIDS day for many years.  The great thing about (RED) is the product(red) part of this movement.  

Its pretty simple.  Many companies have created special red products (like red ipods from apple) and the profits from these sales go to the global fund to help others.  The products range from shoes to technology, music and coffee.  In my opinion all of these products are things most of my peers and I would purchase anyway so why not pick the specific products that can help others.  

Here is just a little bit of info from the join(red) website about what its all about.   

Every Generation is known for something.

Let's be the one that delivers an AIDS Free Generation.

We all have tremendous power. What we choose to do or even buy, can affect someone’s life on the other side of the world.

In 2010, 1,000 babies were born every day with HIV.

In 2011, that number was down to 900.

By 2015 it can be near zero. We can stop the transmission of HIV from moms to their babies.

In the fight to eliminate AIDS, 2015 could be the beginning of the end – it’s the year we can deliver an AIDS Free Generation.

(RED) can’t accomplish this alone. It will take all of us to get there –

governments, health organizations, companies, and you.

When you DO THE (RED) THING, a (RED) partner will give up some of its profits to fight AIDS.

It’s as simple as that.

BE (RED). Start the end of AIDS now.

So if this sounds interesting please jump on the site and see what little changes you can make in your purchasing to get the things you were already going to buy and support others.

A world of possibilties

Many things have changed since the days where we were all forced to only watch what was on TV when the TV networks said we had to.  We've had VHS, DVD, laserdics, bluray ok so the list goes on; and now we have the web.  Apart from the ability to stream TV the coolest thing is that many artists who aren't getting cast on the big TV networks are getting a chance to make a name for themselves via the net.  

As many of you know I'm a big fan of The Guild (which I first saw on Xbox live) which has lead me to the Geek and Sundry channel.  This then lead me to more work of Amy Okuda.  Many of you may know her as Tink from The Guild, but I have just watched her as Sam on BFF.  BFF is a black comedy about four highschool girls who; well lets just say want to rid the world of suck by any means.  This show was brought to us by the Youtube channel YOMYOMF - you offend me you offend my family.  So I thought I'd show you their promo vid.  It still makes me smile to see the blending of 'main stream' actors with the indie webseries crowd.   

So have a watch and see what else the web has to offer, you never know you may just be able to see the next big star.  

Happy watching    

The Revolution has started

I do love a new sci-fi series but I admit having been an avid watcher for so many years it does take something a bit different to grab my attention.  To be honest I'm not sure how hooked I am on this new series but I'm willing to give it a chance.  The show I'm talking about is the new NBC series called Revolution

 

So what's the idea I here you asking well I think the team at NBC publicity describe it best .....

"Our entire way of life depends on electricity. So what would happen if it just stopped working? Well, one day, like a switch turned off, the world is suddenly thrust back into the dark ages. Planes fall from the sky, hospitals shut down, and communication is impossible. And without any modern technology, who can tell us why? Now, 15 years later, life is back to what it once was long before the industrial revolution: families living in quiet cul-de-sacs, and when the sun goes down lanterns and candles are lit. Life is slower and sweeter. Or is it? On the fringes of small farming communities, danger lurks. And a young woman's life is dramatically changed when a local militia arrives and kills her father, who mysteriously - and unbeknownst to her - had something to do with the blackout. This brutal encounter sets her and two unlikely companions off on a daring coming-of-age journey to find answers about the past in the hopes of reclaiming the future. " Written by NBC Publicity

  

I'm only about 5 or so episodes in and so far its not bad.  It sort of feels like its the bridging story to so many of the future post apocalyptic series I've watched.  It is worth the watch and does get you thinking.  So give it a chance and see what you think.

Let's supprt the guys

Its that time of year again when women all around Australia start to notice that the men have stopped shaving and are sporting some crazy facial hair.  Yep that's right its Movember.  Unsure what this is?   Well guys start Movember 1st with a clean-shaven face and then for the rest of the month, these selfless and generous men known as Mo Bros, groom, trim and wax their way into the annals of fine moustachery. Supported by the women in their lives, Mo Sistas, Movember Mo Bros raise funds by seeking out sponsorship for their Mo growing efforts.  So 30 days of November and through their actions these great guys become walking, talking billboards for the and words raise awareness by prompting private and public conversation around the often ignored issue of men’s health.

We may be nearing the end of the month and soon the boys will be shaving off their mo's (much to the relief of some of us gals) but you still have time to show your support.  Needless to say I can't grow one but I have my own way of showing my support.  In fact for the month of Movember I'll be wearing my moustache earrings and watch.  So If you see a place to donate your loose change for Movember please do because you never know which male in your family could be helped in the future by your support. 

Star Stylin' with Miss Piggy

Normally when I talk about fashion icons they are ladies with similar hair color and features as myself.  However today I just has to put this up coz I adore Miss Piggy and love her take on fashion.  

There is just something about her sense of style that seems to always be up to date.  Plus no matter her age Miss Piggy is always dressed to impressed but never over the top ala Lady Gaga.  And of course which other lady can pull off satin evening gloves and chunky rings with 99% of her looks.  So basically you gotta hand it to Ms Piggy as a fashion icon. 

So sit back and have a giggle and his great clip.

Disney & Barneys & Christmas what could be better

I can't believe its only something crazy like 36 days till Christmas!!!! So instead of freaking out about decorating, present buying and all that jazz I've decided to go looking for inspiration.  Last year's theme was Vintage but this year I'm thinking of going cute geek girl.  So first port of call is Disney for inspiration, and I stumbled on the clip for the launch of Disney and Barney's collaboration for their New York Electric Holiday.   

 

So this got me to thinking what would a cute geek girl Christmas look like; and yes you will see more geek inspiration in days to come, but for now its all Disney.  Thankfully even though I'm not near the magical kingdom I can still get my hands on cute Disney things.  Plus I may it may include a couple of hello kitty things for a bit of extra cuteness.    

I'm currently thinking lots of sparkle, lights and mickey inspired decorations plus a lot of the Disney Princess' for that extra special touch.  Watch out christmas stores here comes Tiki.

Sweet Dreams

While going through my playlist the other day I came across an amazing lady I thought I should share with you again.  You may know but if you don't its the wonderfully talented Ali McGregor.   I first discovered Ali many years ago by pure accident at the Melbourne Comedy festival and only a bit of research that I discovered that I had actually seen her perform with Opera Australia.  

I adore the fact that Ali sees so much beauty in the music she works with, but most of all I adore the way she can rework a song.  After attending her Late Night Variety Act during the comedy festivals I have never been able to listen so certain songs the same way again.  For instance Kylie Minogue's song "can't get you out of my head" will now always seem like a song for a stalker thanks to Ali's great reworking of it.  

So in honor of this amazing songstress I thought I'd share a clip of her performing "Sweet Dreams (are made of this)"originally by the Eurythmics.  It may be a song that has been covered a lot by the likes of Marilyn Manson and even Emily Browning in the movie Sucker Punch, but there is just something so beautiful about Ali's version.  So I hope you enjoy.

Sparkle Sparkle

Just a little upload today.  As we head towards the Christmas silly season I thought it was time to have a little sparkle in my day no matter where I was.  Hence the new ultra blue glitter nails.  Hey when you can't wear a tiara to work everyday a girls gotta do something so happy Friday from sparkleville

Just in time for christmas

Today is the day when I get to see behind the big white barricades at Westfield Southland and get to step into the latest addition to the Cotton On family - their new mega store where all the fashion brands will be under the one roof just in time for Christmas.  

So what you may be thinking but now when you looking at that great dress you can actually try it on with those new shoes you were also thinking about.  Plus you can also great the right lingerie to make sure your best assets are keeping the dress in place.  Ok so this all may be a bit 'first world problems' but hey when your a gal on a ticking clock to pick up that outfit for a girls night its gonna be very handy.    

So you can come and enjoy the exciting first days with jam-packed with fun activities & giveways.
 

Friday November 16

FREE Photobooth from 10am to 8pm 
FREE Rubi Nail Bar from 11am to 4pm 
Promo staff handing out Cotton On Cupcakes from 1pm to 5pm 
FREE Body Active Demonstrations from 5pm to 7pm   
DJ Danny Clayton from 4pm to 7pm 

Saturday November 17

FREE Photobooth from 10am to 5pm 
FREE Rubi Nail Bar from 11am to 4pm 
Promo staff handing out Cotton On Cupcakes from 1pm to 4pm 
Frozen Yoghurt Cart from 1pm to 4pm
DJ Ryan Wood from 12pm to 4pm 

Sunday November 18

FREE Photobooth from 10am to 5pm 
DJ Lauren Mac from 12pm to 4pm 

So if your in the area and in need of some retail therapy go have a look. Hopefully I'll be able to post up some images once I'm through those door early tomorrow morning.

Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog - Full Movie

So I'm in the mood for a bit of a pick me up and what better way to make my night better than spending it with Felicia Day, Neil Patrick Harris, Nathan Fillion and Joss Whedon.  Ok so they were on my tv while I was on my couch with a glass of red wine and a box of chocolates; but it still counts ....sort of LOL

Anyway if you haven't seen it you better if you ever want to claim you love the works of Joss Whedon.  Its only 45 minutes of your life that will let you see NPH play one of the best evil bloggers on the planet, espeically since he has "a PHD in horribleness".  Not to mention Nathan Fillion playing Captain Hammer is just priceless.  Again its a great piece of Joss' works and makes him even more awesome in my eyes.  

So what's it all about.  Well Dr. Horrible is an aspiring supervillain with his own video blog who is trying to join the Evil League of Evil but his plans are usually foiled by the egotistical superhero Captain Hammer.   Of course Dr Horrible is also suffering from a case of unrequited love with his dream girl Penny who is swept off her feet by Captain Hammer.  Faced with the task of impressing the League, can Horrible overcome his own incompetence to ruin the day, kill the hero, and still get the girl? 

So sit back, relax, get ready to sing and watch the wonderful Dr Horrible's sing-a-long blog. 

Yay...more packages

As the year draws to a close I tend to realize that I still have gift vouchers from last Christmas that I need to spend.  No I'm not the gal that forgets she has them only to find them two months after they expire, rather I get vouchers for places where the choices are so overwhelming that it takes me for ever to decided on what I'll get. 

Thankfully I was finally able to decided on a few items from one of my favorite Queensland stores called Berserk.  You may not know who they are so I'll let you know they are a great team based in Bowen Hills in Queensland Australia who have been bringing some of the coolest items to our shores since 2001.  

Plus their service is amazing, I ordered my pieces at 5pm on monday afternoon with regular postage and had them in my hot little hands Friday lunch time.  I mean how cool is that, plus with the parcel ID I could even see when it landed in Melbourne and the postman had picked it up for delivery.  Over all I couldn't be happier.

Right now I guess your saying to yourself "Sure the service was great Tiki but what did you get???"  Well....I got all the items from the images on the left. Yep that's right I picked up a sailor dress, Ariel the mermaid singlet and cute sailor top.  Plus I also picked up a couple of magazines for a bit of quiet reading.   I was also so pleased to find that measurements displayed online were exactly what was delivered.  As I'm sure we all hold our breath the first time we try something on from a mail order purchase.  But yes everything fitted and I couldn't be happier.  So to Fleur and all your team a big THANK YOU as I now have some of the coolest things to wear to work.  

Hey mr postman

 

In this age of twitter, email and Skype (to name a few) its rare that we get excited by going to our mail boxes as there only ever seems to be bills lurking there or a ton of junk mail.  However this week I was pleasantly surprised to see a package from Woodend waiting to greet me.  Inside this plain white package was a gift of joy from an artist who is very dear to me; Tom Dickins.  As a proud supporter of his music since I discovered him last year I was overjoyed to find to hard copies of his CD's signed and waiting for me in my mail box.  Not only were these copies signed but they had a personal message on them for me which made them ever more special.  It warms my heart to think that Tom took time out of his day to sign these for me and send them.  So needless to say these are now in pride of place on my Music wall and they are being listened to over and over again on all my playlists, which makes me even more excited about his current project which so many of us are helping to support.  

So please get out there and support your local music acts.  They need your love and support, coz you never know just how much a kind word or a cd/merch purchased can help them to achieve their dreams.  If you like what they do, show your support it all counts.

my new pride and joys

Comic-Con Episode IV: A Fan's Hope

It was a quiet night in when my AppleTV suggested I watch a movie; yep a bit creepy that the little black box next to me TV knows what I like but hey it was right.  As I a am a fan of sci-fi, geeks, con's and documentries it suggested that I watch Comic-Con Episode IV: A Fan's Hope.  Normally I'm a bit hessitant of doco's on us geeks at con's as they usually paint us in the "never left our parent's basement' light.  However when the doco is produced with people like Morgan Spurlock, Joss Whedon, Kevin Smith it was worth watching the trailer at least I thought....yep and I was right it was totally worth it.  

I am a proud geek gal who embraces being a bit left of centre and enjoys dressing up in Cosplay to go to a con, so to be able to watch a doco that is all about embracing what you love was brilliant.  I admit there were even a few times when I teared up at some of the stories they followed in it.  Trust me if you have ever been to a con, been called a geek for liking sci fi or comics then this is a movie for you.  It also features some great interviews with people like Seth Rogan, Seth Green and of course my favourites Joss Whedon and Kevin Smith.  Plus it features great quotes like ..... 

"The geeks shall inherit the earth. 

Firstly don't call me a geek and secondly how much do i get? 

Do I get Australia?" Joss Whedon

 "If I could go back in time and tell the 11yr old me that not only will you go to comic con but you'll go every year so much so like you'll be greeted by Stan lee when you show up.  And the 11 yr old me will be like how did we get so fat? " Kevin Smith

So yes now more than ever I am planning to save up, make costumes and somehow get myself to comic con at least once in my life.  This movie is worth the watch so jump on iTunes or your local web-streaming channel, I'm personally now going to try and find a hard copy so I can watch this whenever I'm feeling blue to cheer myself up.

Hopefully it will also inspire you all to follow your dreams and realize you are not alone.  Chances are if you like it there are others out there in the 'verse who also do.  So let you freak flag high and celebrate who you are!!!!!!

In the mood for some K-pop

Most would say that I have very varied tastes when it comes to music and style, so its no real shocker that I have formed a bit of weakness lately for K-pop (Korean Pop Music), in fact I remember being a bit into J-pop when I was in my early high school years thanks to my Japanese friends.   There is just something that makes me smile and in some cases break out into a dance routine when listening to the tracks.  

 

If your not quiet sure what on earth I'm talking about the most recent cross over from K-pop to aussie mainstream is the song by PSY called Gangnam Style.  I'm not sure why this one went viral and ended up on stations like Nova but maybe it has something to do with the video clip, youtube it if you haven't seen it.  I dare you to keep a straight face when the guy in the elevator dances....and yes my crazy mates have been seen breaking out these dance moves in clubs.  

Apart from PSY I have fallen for a group called Girls Generation, partly because their songs make me smile and partly because where else can you see a 9 girl k-pop band.  I guess it also brings back memories of my J-pop days when you would hear Japanese with the occasional English word thrown in.  Yep it still makes me giggle to hear this.  I also like the fashion and the make up which got me searching through my make up tutorials and lead me to Michelle Phan and her great tutorial on how to do K-pop makeup.  I really like Michelle's clips as she explains each step really well making it easy to follow, plus this is a great base for me to practice my anime cosplay styles.  So in the interests of spreading knowledge I've included her clip below and who knows maybe when I've got the style down a bit better I'll show you my attempts at it.  So sit back and enjoy and thanks to Michelle Phan for sharing this great clip.

New Colours

I have always had a soft spot for Katy Perry's style as its just the right mix of stunning makeup and quirky outfits.  Sure not all of her clothing is suitable for walking to the supermarket to pick up some milk but I love the risk of what she wears. 

So as the red in my hair dye starts to fade I have been looking for a new color, partly because of the fading but mostly as I seem to see every second person with the exact same color.  This started me searching for some inspiration.  Sure I could follow the cosplay path and go pink, green or something just as out there but the color has to be one I can also wear to work.  Which is why when sent a link to Katy Perry's wide awake clip the suggestion of dark blue/purple seemed to speak volumes to me.  I'm currently researching what it all entails and most likely I'll end up at Wildlocks in the city as they are amazing when it comes to colors like this.  So right now its all about watching Youtube clips to find out the good, the bad and the mistakes I can learn by.  And who knows the next pic of me may be with my new color.

And now for the clip that is inspiring the color change....enjoy

The Kittens purr

Personally I like to support local companies especially when they are independent clothing stores based here in Australia.  A few years ago I discovered Kitten D'Amour in Queensland and I have loved their clothing ever since.  Its a great mix of all I adore with their gothic lolita, retro inspired clothing.  One of the best things about their clothing is you can wear it as a complete outfit or take the parts you love and work it into your daily wear.  In fact its actually a store I always make a special effort to get to when ever I get to the sunshine state.

With their collections ranging from sweet and innocent like the picture to the left from their Love and Cherish Collection to amazing dresses for the races in the Rue De Paris and Dearly beloved collections as seen below.   These pieces let your inner Goddess shine through in a multitude of ways and really who wouldn't want to be a Goddess in their daily life.  Plus when attending events you are sure to stand out in the right way.

So do you like what you see so far?  Then make sure you jump on their website and have a look for yourself.   And please make sure you watch the clip below to help you feel inspired

A bit of a giggle

After the news that Disney has bought LucasFilm including ILM (industrial light and magic) and Skywalker sound for a reported $4Billion I thought I just had to post up this youtube.com clip down by a great bunch of guys at Teddie Films.  

However before we get to clip was does this purchase mean to us fans, well number one is that the long awaited Star Wars Episode VII is now due for release in 2015. Ok just enough time to get my cosplay sorted.  I think it will have to be a full Star Wars main cast group thing and NO there will not be anyone done up as JarJar Binks!!!!!   So now Disney owns LucasFilm and Marvel......oh please let Joss Whedon get involved in Star Wars and I'm sure I'm not the only geek out there hoping this will happen.

I guess I'm not really that surprised that this has happened especially since Disney and Star Wars have seemed to be linked for awhile.  I mean I went on the StarWars Star Tours ride in Disneyland back in 1989/1990 and they have been hosting Star Wars weekends at the theme park for awhile.  I even have a Jedi Mickey plush doll my good buddy Mikii brought back for me last year.  So lets just think happy thought and see where this goes.

I hope you enjoy the parody 'The Star Wars That I Used To Know' - Gotye 'Somebody That I Used To Know' Parody by Teddie Films. So let raise our lightsabers, sit back and have a giggle.

A Green Moon over Melbourne

Here in Melbourne we have one of the oddest public holidays in the calendar, yep we all get the day off to watch 'the race that stops the nation' otherwise known as the Melbourne Cup.  Yes you are reading that right we get a day off to dress up in our finest frocks and hats that only see the light of day once a year if we're really honest while we have a few drinks and watch horses race.  

For most of us its only a little bit about the horses and having a flutter on the race.  Many go (and yes I'm talking about the ladies here) just to the fashions on the field.    It's not all champagne and looking fabulous as the Melbourne Cup seems to have convinced us all, there is one tradition that only long term cup go-ers know....its the weather.  As we are in Melbourne it's not strange to have four seasons in any one day but Cup day has a rule all of its own. 

There are only two weather types if your attending the cup 

1. Blistering heat 

or 2. Pouring down rain.  

So unless your in a marquee its essential to watch those weather forecasts as you don't want to end up stuck in the mud while wearing your new heels that you just had to have for that perfect race day dress.  This year the fashions were a real mixed bag and I guess that hat that Princess Beatrice wore at the royal wedding wasn't enough of a warning to some to really think about their choices.  Personally I like the elegant and classy fascinator or wide brimmed hat and the less avant-guard.  

In the end it rained this year but Green Moon won so its swings and round-a-bouts I guess.  The bubbles flowed and the fashion gave all us gals something to talk about, so overall a good day was had by all especially as I spend my cup day at home with friends wearing silly hats and having a laugh.  I think I like this best as you get to spend the day with out the huge expense, no lines for the bathrooms and a great sound system playing your favourite songs.  

Happy Race Season to you all. 

Welcome home

Ok so its been its been a long time between drinks so to speak, LOL. Due to a thousand and one things happening in my life my blog had to take a break and hopefully that will be the last of the breaks.  *fingers crossed*

So whats been going on in your life??? Well I've moved into a new store so spending lots of time making it as pretty as a picture as we head into the silly season of Christmas.  Otherwise known as the time when us retailers drink, become exhausted and end up buying our friends and families gift cards as presents as we just can't face another minute in a shop.  Yep that was a heads up for all my buddies.....  Currently I'm spending my days surrounded by ultra cool goodies and tiny tinsel trees; there is even a hot pink one so that may end up on my desk at home.  Coz of course that's what every good office needs a hot pink xmas tree.  

Apart from being crazy busy at work I've been spending a lot of times with my buddies discovering new things and supporting local artisans.  Its no surprise to many that I have been trying to spread the word for local artists and hence I've been given a whole bunch of new music, art and indie movies to enjoy which has been great.  I'm still a massive fan of Tom Dickins and Amanda Palmer and recently received some amazing packages from them both but more on that to come.   

I've also decided to plan 2013 so I can get the most of of the year when it comes to conventions and events.  The list includes multiple interstate trips to places like Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Gold Coast and Brisbane for events ranging from PAX (gamers convention), Supanova/ComicCon/Arrmeggdon (geek conventions) to retro events like Gangsters ball/wintersun/hot rod shows.  Yep so 2013 is going to be one busy year for this gal; but hey what can be better than always having something to look forward to.  

With that said I'll sign off for today and hope to see you soon with lots more news about this wonderful world we live in.

Gotta Love Vintage

Alright ladies its time to start counting those pennies you've been saving for the The Love Vintage Clothing Show & Sale at Sydney's Canterbury Racecourse Function Centre.  For some of us it means hopping a flight up to Sydney for the weekend (September 14th-16th) but when great fashion calls what else are we meant to do???? 

Come on what is a girl meant to do when she is presented with some of the best vintage dealers from all over Australia selling retro, vintage and antique clothing and accessories, antique and vintage jewellery, linen, lace and textiles and small collectables. Not to mention that there will be vintage fashions on the stage, lectures by guest speakers, workshops and demonstrations of vintage makeup and hairstyle techniques and other fabulous entertainment.  Ok I'm tired just thinking about how much I will have to fit in while there. 

So are you thinking about coming yet?  How about knowing that they are even doing a Mini-makeover – Before & After; with a lucky guest being chosen at the ‘Red Carpet’ event to receive this special treatment on Friday night!  Plus the Friday night ‘Red Carpet’ preview features the Best Dressed Parade with wonderful prizes to be won plus lots more entertainment.  So start working on those outfits ladies.

And for the low cost of Adults $14 (2 day pass $26 and 3 day pass $38) why wouldn't you be there?  You can even book online to saw yourself time waiting in lines when you could be shopping.  So grab your glad rags and we'll see you there in a few weeks.

Fight Like a Girl

 

Thanks to Ms Selma I was given a copy of the new release songs of the amazing Emilie Autumn collection known as F.L.A.G or the full title as Fight Like a Girl. Based on her autobiographical novel, The Asylum for Wayward Victorican Girls the album has been described as "an operatic feminist treatise set inside an insane asylum, wherein the female inmates gradually realize their own strength in numbers."  

All I can say is it's amazing and I can't wait to get my hands on the CD with its beautiful artwork.  The music ranges from dark electronic, haunting 18th century harpsichord and almost classical beat-poetry.  I'm not sure how long Australian fans will have to wait for the official release and long awaited tour but when Emilie does return to our shore she will be greeted with joy.  So far I do have a few fav's like "we want them young", "if I burn", 'The Key" and of course "Fight like a girl".  This is a must for all fans.