Hi Divas

Birthday Treat
January is my birthday month, which means the party does not stop for me after the new year rolls in. My birthday was very low key this year as I decided to do things that I always loved. These may seem completely boring and mundane to you, but for me they were a dream come true. I absolutely adore the sea. It is one of my most favourite places on earth. I love the vast serene open space, the uncertainty of what lies beneath, the scent of fresh salty air as well as the calming effect it has on my soul. On my birthday morning I decided to enjoy two of my favourite things which are coffee and the sea with my sister. We sat peacefully in the rays of the sunrise, watching the waves go by, while dogs went on their morning run. To our surprise, there was a school of dolphins frolicking in the morning glory too, and it was such a gorgeous sight to behold. I will never forget that peaceful dream like birthday morning. It was such a blessing.

Cape Town Summer
Guys, Cape Town summer just never gets old. No matter how many times you have seen the views that this city has to offer, you still stand in awe and wonder at the beauty God created. From the picturesque mountain tops to the pristine beaches and glorious sunsets, our Summers are truly beautiful. Not to say that we had some unexpected hiccups this season. They say that Cape Town's weather is like a woman's mood; forever changing! Rude but so true. We had some serious gale force winds that nearly toppled everyone over for a few days. I was in the CBD one afternoon and the South Easterly wind shook my heavy-duty car. To say I was scared is an understatement. We also had quite a few showers, including a gloomy Christmas Day. Completely strange, as out festive season is usually sweltering hot. I was not complaining though, since God was providing the much-needed rain for our city which was struggling from drought two years ago. Disguised blessings, I tell you!

Fitness Motivation
As mentioned above, I ate my whole festive season away, and it is visibly showing when I put on my clothes. Last year, I made great progress in my health journey and looked and felt better than I had in years. I want to get back into my fitness routine and what better way to do that, than to break in my new pink Adidas trainers. It was love at first sight when I saw them and decided to treat myself during a massive sale. I will do a separate blog post on my fitness routine and healthy lifestyle, as that is a whole adventure filled with ups and downs. For now, my pink Adidas are giving me so much motivation to look and feel good from the inside out and keep moving.

 Unexpected Blessings
I want to send out a huge shout out and thank you to my blogger friend Kim from the USA. She has an amazing blog filled with beauty reviews and more at A Very Sweet Blog. This woman has a heart of pure gold. She wished me a happy new year by generously sending me a big package filled with beauty treats that I have never tried before. I was completely speechless when I opened the box. Her kind-hearted and benevolent soul is truly to be admired. I pray that God blesses her abundantly. I have already started to play with some of the goodies she sent me and wore it on my birthday. Look out for all the upcoming reviews on those products.


Thank you all so much for reading and I wish you a happy 2020. 
I know my new year wishes are super delayed but better late than never right, LOL!
Lots of love. Divalicious Kisses.
Xxxx

Hi Divas

Personally 2019 was a very difficult year for me. I had to face many hurts, emotionally challenging situations regarding my family, career and financial losses. I too had to bury my grandma in June, and in the midst of that time it was a very tumultuous period. I honestly thought this year couldn't get any worse and it did. I am a very private person and hate spilling my intimate problems online. Just know that it was emotionally draining and tough. I felt very dejected about my present and future and hopelessness slowly crept into my heart. Thankfully God is always faithful and just when you think your whole life is falling apart and there is only despair and no hope, the Lord sweeps through in a miraculous way. I can honestly say that I'm grateful and thankful for 2019. God has truly shown his love, mercy and power. I couldn't have gotten through this year without holding onto his hand very tightly. I want to tell you that if you are going through a difficult period in your life and you feel as if there is no end in sight, keep praying and pressing on in faith. Sunshine will slowly come through the cracks of your darkest moments. Despite all the setbacks and that some of my problems are still not resolved, I have a thankful and grateful heart for the blessings I received this year. I would like to share some of them with you in this post. Below are the wonderful highlights of 2019. Hope you enjoy them ;-)


Table Mountain Adventure
I live in one of the most beautiful cities in the world and with it comes the iconic Table Mountain. Voted one of the seven wonders of the world, this mountain will follow you wherever you go in Cape Town. It stands as a beacon and a symbol of home. My dad always told me, that even if you are lost on the road, always drive in the direction towards the mountain and it will guide you home. This is so true, as when I step out my house, I see the mountain, I can drive anywhere in the city and the mountain stands tall looking over me. As a resident we sometimes take these beautiful things for granted and forget to stop and admire its wonder once in a while. My mom, sister and I decided to take a trip up again to enjoy the sites and views, as it has been many years since I took the cable cart trip. It was such a stunning day and the walk through the rocks, breathing in the scents of the Fynbos plants and taking in the magnificent views of my coastal city and the little animals was truly breathtaking. I will always cherish these sweet moments enjoying nature with my family. If you ever come to Cape Town, this trip is an absolute must. You will never regret it. Below are photos of my mom and I, the cable cart and the stunning views.


Running Wild in Qatar
I have never travelled on my own before, and when my boss presented me with the opportunity to run wild and free all by myself for a few weeks in Qatar, I was excited and a little fearful too. Exploring the Middle East as a woman all alone can seem very daunting. The key is to be streetwise, confident and understand your surroundings. I know Doha really well as I have been going there for six years with a crew but on my own, I needed an extra boost of confidence. I learned a lot about myself during that time. I realised that I don't need to rely on people to make me happy, I have grown to love myself and be confident in who I am, also I can do all things through God who strengthens me! I honestly enjoyed this time on my own and I felt that I was connected and appreciated things more by myself. This trip was truly a blessing in disguise. Below are pictures of me exploring the Islamic Art Museum and the famous Souq Waqif; taking in the gorgeous sunsets and getting my henna done.


Super Bike Championships in Qatar
I will tell you a secret. I have never been to any major live sporting match before. When my boss presented me with exclusive tickets to see the international motor bike finals, I jumped at the opportunity. What an exhilarating night it was for me. To see world champions battle it out on a track which was broadcast live around the world was truly an amazing experience. I even got the VIP walk through in the pit to see them service the bikes and get pics and autographs with the riders. I can say that I am now hooked on all thing's motor sports and the thrill of hearing the engines roar. I have never seen such fast racing in all my life. It was absolutely thrilling and I dream of taking my mom to such an event as she would totally adore it. All things are possible!



Fairy Tale Queen
Most of you may know, that I am a performer and with it comes many challenges. The main one is actually booking work. I have been rejected so many times at casting calls and auditions, I genuinely lost count. Despite this, the flame inside me to be on stage has not diminished in the slightest. I am always grateful for every job I book and it is a true blessing for me to do what I love. This year I saw myself playing three major roles being Goldilocks, Red Riding Hood and my favourite Princess Jasmine. This is remarkable for a woman of colour like myself as most fairy tale characters skip right over my skin tone. I am happy that I can be a representation to girls who struggle to see themselves in story books regarding complexion and facial features. Playing these characters are such a blessing to me and I am grateful for the opportunity.


Despite this year being an absolute emotional wreck, I can end off 2019 standing tall thanks to the Lord. I give Him all the glory and praise for carrying me and my family through. I recognise all the blessings that I have experienced this year and for this I am really thankful. I hope you enjoyed my post and find some encouragement, that no matter what you are going through there is always someone out there going through something worse than you and praying for the things you already have. Take a moment and count your blessings, keep holding on to hope and you will see a light shining through. I send you so much love.


Divalicious Kisses
Xxxx

Hi Divas

If you are planning a glorious trip somewhere exotic you have to get over a minor mile stone to get to your paradise destination. That of cause is the impending long-haul flight! Nobody loves a long-haul flight. It is one of those uncomfortable situations that most travellers have to endure. You can make your flight a little more luxurious though by booking a 1st class seat or even better, have your own private jet. Now wouldn't that be amazing?! A girl can dream. Unfortunately, most of us common folk have to fly economy at least once in our life time. According to different airlines this may be a wonderful or a nightmarish experience. I preferably love Qatar airways as they make you feel at home and the air hostesses are very friendly and go out of their way to give you a pleasant flight. Nevertheless, sitting in one spot for 6 to 12 hours can really mess a person up physically and mentally. Did I tell you, I once fainted in a bathroom on a flight due to exhaustion and dehydration? The flight attendant had to press an emergency button to get me out. Luckily my pants were still on, when this all unfolded, LOL. Well I have some tips and tricks to avoid such horror situations and I would like to share them with you.


1)PREP YOUR SKIN: 
Firstly, before I even leave for the airport, I take some steps to prepare my skin for the long flight. Air on a plane is extremely drying for the skin as it is filtered and constantly circulating in rotation for those hours. It is important to add hydration to your body from head to toe and keep the moisture locked in. After my shower, I use a heavy-duty body butter and lather it all over myself before I get dressed. This ensures that my skin is well moisturized and won't dry out on the plane. For my face, I love to use a sheet mask for 20 minutes and let all that nourishing goodness soak in. I then seal in all that moisture with a thick cream. This will ensure my face is hydrated, radiant and less dull looking hours after my flight.

2) COMFY CLOTHES
Wearing comfortable clothes is the best thing, you could ever do for yourself on a long-haul flight. I know we have all seen celebrities wearing really stylish tight designer outfits and think: ''Wow I wish I could be like her!''. But that is just it, they are celebrities, getting on private planes and not standing in airport security lines like we are. Wearing clothes such as pants with elastic waistbands and loose-fitting tops will be your best option. Trust me, your stomach will thank you later. On a long-haul flight, your body especially your abdomen tends to swell from water retention. You are also sedentary for most of those hours and not mobile. Digestion can sometimes be slowed down or hampered due to this. Wearing clothes that stretch will relieve pressure and help you relax and feel comfortable in your seat. You don't have to look like a slob either. There are so many stylish and comfy outfits out there such as leggings, jeggings and cute floaty tops or statement t-shirts. You can still look cute and chic while being completely comfy. When it comes to statement earrings and necklaces, it is best to leave those in your suitcase. Try to wear as little jewellry as possible. This will avoid the dreaded beep going off when you pass through airport security and having to remove everything and putting it all back on again. Ain't nobody got time for that!

3) COMFORTABLE SHOES
Again, we see celebrities in glossy magazines wearing stilettos and thigh high heeled boots at airports and think: ''Wow, I want to look like her!''. Totally not practical when it comes to the common folk. It is important to wear comfortable shoes at the airport and on the plane. You never know where you gate is and you may have to walk long distances to get there. You maybe unexpectedly late for your flight and you have to run from one terminal to the other in your high heels. Absolutely torture if you ask me. My mom and sister once saw a woman at the airport wincing in pain as she struggled to walk in the airport in her high heels. For safety reasons, during emergency landings, high heels have to be removed on a flight when existing on a slide as it may puncture it. It's best to wear shoes with a comfortable sole such as trainers, sneakers or walking shoes and place your heels in your overnight bag if you really need them when you step off your flight.

4)SMELL FRESH BUT NOT OVERPOWERING
You will be sitting with a bunch of other people for a number of hours. Please be courteous and take care of your body hygiene. Wear deodorant, brush your teeth, take a shower and use foot powder in your shoes! Nobody wants to sit next to an unhygienic person for many hours to come. In the same vain, don't wear too much fragrance and knock out people sitting around you. Some people may be allergic to your overbearing musk perfume. You can wear fragrance but do not douse yourself in it. A hint of perfume is more than enough.



5) BRING YOUR OWN WATER BOTTLE
To avoid fainting on a plane like I did, it would be best to buy your own water at the airport as you cannot take outside airport beverages on the plane with you. It may be more expensive but it's a good investment. If you have problems with low blood pressure buy some healthy snacks too. Your meals are served at set times and you don't know when they will serve you meals and drinks again. It's best to have your own as to avoid constantly asking. I love to sip on water throughout my flight since my fainting incident. It keeps me hydrated and I don't feel so sluggish. Also, all that water has me wanting to use the bathroom. This gives me an excuse to get up and stretch my legs. This is extremely important on very long flights. You have to keep your blood circulating!

6)CARRY AN OVERNIGHT BAG
This could be a backpack, large hand bag or carry on case. Place an extra pair of clothes and clean underwear in there. Anything can happen, like losing your suitcase or your flight being delayed or a zombie apocalypse, LOL. You would want extra clean clothes for those moments of doom. I love travelling with my backpack as I use it as an overnight bag and adventure bag when I am out and about at my destination.

7) BITS AND BOBS
Keep some hand sanitizers or sanitizing wipes with you. You never know when you might need those in the plane toilets. Tissues and lip balm are a good idea to keep on you too for the odd sniffle and when your lips dry out from the blasting air con. Carry a phone charger in your overnight bag as you can charge your phone any time on the flight and at the airport. Neck Pillows are an absolutely life saver when you want to get some good sleep. Your body will thank you for it. Always keep your passport in a safe place such as a handbag and do not leave it in the seat compartments. You may forget it when you disembark the flight.

8) ENJOY YOURSELF AND BE KIND
Lastly, try to enjoy yourself and make the best of it. I love to watch the latest movies on the plane as this gives me the most pleasure. You are on that flight for so many hours, and therefore you might as well do things you love. Listen to your favourite music, read a book, get some much needed sleep or watch horror movies like I do, LOL. Be kind and courteous to the people sitting around you. Don't be obnoxious and rude. Remember everyone is feeling the same way that you are. We all want to get to our destination as fast as possible. Therefore put on a smile and be polite and considerate on the flight.



I hope you enjoyed this long post and picked up a few tricks.
Thank you so much for reading!
Divalicious Kisses
Xxxx

Hi Divas

Welcome back to this crazy blog of mine. Hope you all had a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year. I cannot believe how fast the holiday season flew by us. I feel like we were just preparing for Christmas, I blinked and now it is all over. Time truly does fly when you not paying attention. I have no complaints though, as I had a very relaxing and super chilled vacation. I think it's my most stress free one to date. Most of my holiday consisted of me stuffing my face with food on the couch but I did enjoy the great Summer weather that my beautiful city Cape Town had to offer. Below is a list of all the little things I enjoyed this Summer 2019. I say little as my list is nothing spectacular or exceptional. It is in those content little moments where you find your soul is at its happiest moments.

1. Summer Sunsets in Cape Town:
Sunsets in Cape Town are always a spectacular site to see. The ombre colours in the sky looks like a beautiful masterpiece painted by God. I love admiring the views on hot summer nights overlooking the mountain or ocean. It's a priceless scene that will be etched in your heart forever.

2. Baking Christmas Cookies with Mom:
My mom and I did some epic baking this Christmas. We made butter cookies, pecan nut biscuits, chocolate romany creams filled with a real chocolate centre and South Africa's favourite hertzoggies which are jam tarts. We too made chocolate mousse and Oreo cookie cheesecakes for our desserts. My mom is amazing in the kitchen and she did all the hard work. I was her little helper decorating everything and taste testing of cause, LOL. I love sharing these moments in the kitchen with my mom. They are memories that will be cherished.

3. Bath and Body Works At The Beach Range:
I absolutely love the Beach range from Bath and Body Works. I have been slathering the shower gel and lotion all over my body almost every day. The scent as a mix of sweet coconut that reminds me of all things Summer. It is moisturising too without leaving the skin greasy and therefore great to use after a long hot day. I have done an in-depth review on it here.

4. Elie Saab L'eau Couture Perfume:
If there is one fragrance brand that represents my true scent, it would definitely be Elie Saab. There is something about their perfumes that enhances my natural essence. The L'eau Couture collection is a fresh, fruity and beautiful scent, consisting of green almonds and vanilla. I have been wearing the perfume and shimmering body lotion whenever I stepped out the house. It is feminine, gorgeous and encapsulates me in a bottle.

5. Beach Hair and Sunkissed Skin:
Embracing my natural roots and tanned skin has been so freeing this Summer. I wanted to give my hair a break from all the heat damage of blow dryers and straight irons. I opted for light serums and leave in conditioners to create perfect beach curls. To enhance my tan skin, I used shimmering bronzers on my face and shoulders for an intense glow.

6. Shorts and bright Sandals:
Don't you just love when you find staple fashion pieces that will never go out of style? I love adding clothing items to my wardrobe that are fashionable but no limited to fading trends. This is exactly how I feel about my yellow River Island shorts and Pick n Pay diamante sandals. They are chic items that represent my style and will never look outdated and old. I have been loving pairing them in different styles and wearing them in all sorts of ways. I purchased these items on a sale too, which is a big win in my book.

7. Copious amounts of Ice Cream
Summer and Ice cream goes hand in hand. They are like Ying and Yang. You just cannot have one without the other. I took full advantage of the holiday binge season and went a little crazy with my sweet indulgence. Every single calorie I put in mouth was worth it and I have no regrets! YOLO!!! Now back to my 40 minute HIIT workout sessions, I go.

*****
To start off the New Year, I always love to do a little giveaway on Diva Desle. I will be giving away this beauty hamper filled with fun cosmetic treats:


 
Rules to enter the giveaway:
1. Follow Diva Desle on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.
2. Like the Giveaway post and tag one friend
3. For extra entries comment on any of my blog posts.
4. This giveaway is open to South African residents only and will end on the 31st January 2019. 
All the best!


Thank you so much for reading. 
Divalicious Kisses
Xxxx

Hello 2018!

Diva Giveaway