I have been neglecting my blog for a good few weeks, maybe even months but I have a valid and very excusable excuse, one I just know, like me, you’ll all fall in love with.
I have recently become heavily involved with an unbelievable brand called 2 Love My Lips. I am sure many of you have already heard of 2 Love My Lips but spending my time planning, prepping and plotting the launch of this brand into South Africa along with a terrific team of individuals has seen me concentrating so much more on everyone else’s feedback, opinions, experiences and comments that I battled to find the time to tell those that follow my blog! I didn’t forget – Writing this blog has been on my ‘to do’ list for 3 months now. So finally, here it is, I am so very excited to share this with you.
… At the age of 13 I had my drink spiked. Even though I was at a house party, with parental supervision and all I asked for was orange juice – I couldn’t shake the feeling of incredible irresponsibility and guilt for it. To make my story seem even more ridiculous, By Monday I knew exactly who the culprit was and coming from a small town, word got out that I was the “drunk” girl at the party and my mom grounded me. Punishment I accepted, with no argument. And no, I never ever confronted the guy who did it. Sticks was his nickname, and he was a boy at my school.
Having your body involunterily surrender to drugs is the most frustrating and unforgivable feeling you could imagine. My mind was totally aware and awake but my body completely numb and useless. I was carried up into a bedroom where I lay for a good few hours while friends popped in to check on me… I was one of the luckier victims, and oh how I wish I knew then what I know now.

The part that freaks me out the most is that 11 years later, this is still a problem, with very little offered as a solution. South African’s are still not reporting it, speaking up or shoving the issue into the spotlight where it deserves to be until it’s done and dealt with. This is where 2 Love My Lips comes in,
2 Love My Lips is a UK born cosmetics brand recently introduced to South Africa, It’s a lip gloss range with a twist. Containing 5 different colours, our gloss isn’t just a 5-in-1 premium lip care that plumps, moisturises and breath freshens, all in a non sticky -long lasting colour formula but it’s a stand against drink spiking and a tool you can use to protect yourself as well. Each lip gloss comes packaged with 2 drink spiking detector strips. Easy to use, you simply dab a drop of liquid onto either side of the strip, if you see colour change to bright blue your drink has been spiked with Ketamine, GHB, Liquid Ecstasy, Cocaine and/or Heroine. Our slogan reads, Be Gorgeous – Stay Safe. We pride ourselves off delivering the message that no woman should have to compromise her beauty for her safety, or her safety for her beauty.

I was originally asked to be a face for the brand, which gave me the opportunity to dive deeper and I realised that this company have the hugest hearts, and genuinely care for those they are reaching out to. Their morals and message spoke to my soul and it was only a few weeks before my true interest was rewarded with the offer of being SA’s brand manager and spokesperson.
I have gladly accepted. Being a girly girl I love my girly things… Lip Gloss definitely one of them. If I am to buy Lip Gloss I now undoubtedly choose 2 Love My Lips. The gloss is an incredible hybrid mixture of lip ice meets lip stick meets lip gloss. A high end formula, where the colour stays even once the gloss is gone, and it’s minty too, a great substitute to chewing gum. 2 Love my lips absorbs itself into my lips and contains loads of vitamin E for moisturising. Something I have needed a lot of since moving to the dry Highveld of Johannesburg.
In case a few of you are thinking that I have to say this – I challenge you all to get your hands on a 2 Love My Lips gloss and see for yourself. I couldn’t be more proud to back a brand I 100% believe in. Many ladies have mentioned that 2 Love My Lips is the greatest gloss they’ve ever owned … and I have many girls, (and guys) who through 2 Love My Lips have come forward with their drink spiking stories, either involving themselves or a friend or family member they know well.

So,

Why do victims not report drink spiking? I’ll give you 3 reasons. One – Like I did, they have an intense feeling of guilt and of irresponsibility. Two – If drink spiking leads to rape which is often the intention of the person spiking, the victims first concern is Pregnancy and HIV, once they have established the status of these two worries the drugs have left their system (which can take 12 – 72 hours depending on you and the drug) and Three – Very few people have faith in our justice system.

Did you know: That if you suspect you have been drink spiked and you wish to be tested, you are responsible to fit the bill for your test here in South Africa!

Why do people drink spike? The reasons for drink spiking ranges from personal amusement to maliciousness of theft, sexual assault and human trafficking.

We, at 2 Love My Lips don’t want to scare you, we want to educate you. We aim to provide you with the tools to go out with the confidence that you are aware and equipped to be in control of your safety.

How do I prevent becoming a drink spiking victim? There are a few points to familiarise yourself with when in an environment of potential drink spiking and please note that drink spiking happens everywhere and anywhere, from house parties to clubs and pubs, braai’s to corporate functions.
Always purchase a drink you can watch being poured for you, if your drink comes with a mixer ask for the mixer to be brought to you in a closed can and not poured from the machines. Rather purchase drinks in bottles where you can use your finger to hold the top closed. Surround yourself with friends and familiar people and always let somebody know if you are going out, whether it is to a movie alone, or on a blind date. Never leave your drink unattended and do not accept drinks from strangers.

(Please feel free to comment on this blog with any more tips you consider important)

2 Love My Lips wish to make the above mentioned precautions, habits in each and every individual. IF you fail to follow any of these, remember, you always have your 2 Love My Lips Drink Spiking Detector Strips!

I would love to answer any questions you have and read all your comments, so please feel free … Sending you all lots of lippie love,

Follow us on twitter: 2lovemylipssa

Find us on Facebook: 2 Love My Lips South Africa

For a list of our stockists visit, www.2lovemylips.co.za

The headline reads “4891 SMURF FANS SET A NEW GUINESS WORLD RECORD TITLE FOR THE GATHERING OF PEOPLE DRESSED AS SMURFS WITHIN A 24 HOUR PERIOD IN MULTIPLE VENUES ON GLOBAL SMURF DAY” … Quite a sentence, but considering the planning, cooperation and effort that went into Saturdays, Global Smurf Day, You couldn’t expect any less.

South Africa proudly contributed 232 of those Smurfs to the final number at Fourways High School. Jacques and I arrived with 15 minutes to spare. We we’re the last two, to be thrown into baggy blue and whites, sprayed blue, given a hat and began interviews and photographs while our newly acquired blue flesh still dried.

SA counted their Smurfs and sent the numbers over to London for them to add to the equation. 94.7 Highveld Stereo supported the Smurfy gathering announcing interesting facts like our youngest Smurf being 2 and a half, while our oldest Smurf was 70, and we were each given a certificate of participation.

This is not the first time we’ve been painted blue, for media purposes. You might remember us doing Heat Magazine’s Iconic Moments where we were carefully crafter into Avatars.  That took 4 hours, this however, 4  minutes. Among us were familiar faces Jason Greer, Rikki Breast and Sade. We cut a Smurfy cake, Gave each other Smurfy names – Jacques and Mine being, Mr and Mrs Smurf and simply enjoyed 2 or 3 hours of innocent, light hearted fun!

Big Blue hug to Jared Orlin for extended the invite our way, we really enjoyed the evening.

Today a good friend of mine Roxy Ferreira and I combined two brilliant brands added champagne and cupcakes and vwala! A super sexy day of shopping!

Roxy has just launched a beautiful boutique and called it Parooz Fashions, for those of you keeping a close eye you’ll know that I wore her clothing at both the Survivor Finale Party as well as to the Yogi Sip Breakfast. Her stuff is gorgeous, unique and affordable, and we proved this at today’s launch.  The ladies who popped by were spoilt for choice, and their men only happy to allow them to take exactly what they wanted home. An added extra was the 2 Love My Lips, lip gloss range on display. Now I need to blog about this, as it’s been a project that I have recently become a part of, deserves a post of its own and only in the last few days has it become public, so I promise to do so ~ And when I do, I just know you will be as blown away as the boys and girls were today!

Weldone Rox, I know your store is your passion and with passion nothing can fail. I look forward to many magical moments we experience together, through Parooz Fashions and 2 Love My Lips

Yesterday morning I attended a breakfast at the fabulous Fire & Ice Hotel, Melrose Arch alongside familiar faces Bailey Schneider, Jen Su, Gareth Cliff, Liezl van der Westhuizen, Morne Morkel and Jean Marie Neethling to mention a few.

I, along with some of the above mentioned names have recently been featured in their online media campaign for their new “Wake up” sippy snacks. Yogurt with oats – a quick grab and go Yogi Sip drink for those on the run. And so yesterday morning’s breakfast was simply a celebration of a campaign well executed.

All celebrations come with champagne, and it seems I’m not the only one that feels this way. Regardless of it being 09h00 on a Wednesday morning we popped a few and stuck into a beautiful buffet of anything from fruits and yogurts to a full English breakfast. There were breads and pastries too but Bailey and I stayed well away, our topic of conversation while selecting our breakfast involved bikini body’s and catamarans. Great distraction from the delicious deli!

I was also given a cooler box filled with yogi Sip. One so heavy I had to recruit hotel staff to help me carry it to my car, as well as a gift of scarves and laptop covers for both myself and Jacques.

To Lorinda and the team from Yogi Sip, thank you for the morning, the gifts, the conversation and the great time. I’m simply loving being a part of the yummy yogurt family.
Also a big thank you to who is becoming a permanent part of my public life, Roxy Ferriera of Parooz Fashions for the fabulous clothing!

I think is is safe to say that Jacques and I have embraced and celebrated our engagement to the fullest. From the day we announced our  commitment we’ve enjoyed an intimate day toasting each other and our love at a tranquil day spa, We’ve had close family gatherings, been showered with gifts, champagne and cake. We’ve thrown a great get together for friends and family on the pool bar roof top of the Southern Sun Hotel in Hyde Park and last weekend we completed it all with a 2 night stay at the magical Castle in Clarens, thanks to my mom – This was her engagement gift to us.

3 stories of medievil Castle based on the book Rupanzel. Equiped with a fireplace, a sunset balcony and a romantic room tucked in the highest tower overlooking the valley in which Clarens quitely sits. Jacques and I headed for the mountains, for two never to forget nights.

We enjoyed the absolute serenity and silence the Castle had to offer. With no TV we had hours of conversation over many glasses of wine and champagne. I was cooked and cared for and returned the love by treating us to full body massages and a shopping spree that could have seen us purchase  most of Clarens. We took a drive out to Surrender Hill, in hopes of visiting the Fertility Caves – For those that need a quick explanation – These caves have served as a spiritual gathering place for over 800 years to various tribes and religions in and around South Africa. Unfortunately we were unable to enter.

We spent an afternoon beer and cider tasting, a great way to set the tone for a rather eventful evening where we had the bright idea to create a pizza oven out of a built-in-braai, Needless to say – it worked.

The reason my mom chose this location as an engagement gift, needs no further explanation other than I am a fairytale and fantasy fanatic. I grew up skipping and singing my way around the garden. Living in imaginary castles falling in love with make believe Princes. In my world, as I hope in all little ladies worlds, I was a princess and this weekend it all felt insanely real.

Mom, Thank you for this magical memory. We loved every minute of the intimate time we had to reflect on this beautiful journey we have taken together. To the rest of my readers, I highly recommend the Castle in Clarens, whether it be a fun filled family stay, a romantic getaway or a group of girlfriends. It’s plain and simply gorgeous.

www.castleinclarens.co.za

Last night Jacques and I were on good mate, Martin Bester’s radio Drive Show. We spoke about the normal chit chat topics … Survivor, our Engagement, Jacques’ up coming music projects and then Janina (Martin’s machine of a traffic reader) educated us on her daily project ~ Jacaranda’s Sexy Stamp of Approval.

First she stamped Jacques, or maybe that’s an understatement … She painted Jacques with many stamps affording him her approval of his sexiness.

(To watch follow – http://www.jacarandafm.com/kagiso/content/en/jacaranda/jacaranda-blogs-martin-bester-drive?oid=1163497&sn=Detail&pid=399938&MBD-TV—Shirtless-Hot-Jacques-Terre-blanche-gets–Sexy-Stamped-)

I was then asked to make a suggestion on the next candidate, and I bent the bar a bit. At first I suggested Jared Leto, but apparently he’s already been approved so I suggested Vince Vaughn instead… Now I know Vince is not your typical toned tush and tight tummy but isn’t he just so hysterical and sweet it passes for sexy? He’s big (which I love, there’s nothing better than feeling totally tiny in your man’s arms), he’s absolutely hilarious, he’s by no means ugly – just not your normal hottie and you know what, I love that! In an industry full of  macho, masculine men it’s nice to have a little averageness.

Plus, Have you seen his mom? May I add that she is 70 years old (There’s gotta be good gene’s in there)

I read a comment on the Martin Bester Drive Facebook page “Sexy? HELL NO! Jacques so much more eye catching!” Of course I agree, no question about that! Jacques is just… well, my perfection. With Jacques I found the funny, the realness, the big heart and beautiful mind. His ab’s, ass and adorable face are just a bonus All I’m saying is that Vince Vaughn holds sexiness too, in his own non conventional, unique,  real kind of a way!

And yes, I like that!

To back or batray me visit http://www.jacarandafm.com/kagiso/content/en/jacaranda/jacaranda-blogs-martin-bester-drive?oid=1163472&sn=Detail&pid=6106&Sexy-Weather—Vince-Vaughn and leave your comments. I enjoy how this makes for great conversation!

Every April since 1995, my family have made the effort to press pause on their fast paced lives for one long weekend, make the trip (whether it be from Swaziland, Amanzimtoti, Pietermaritzburg, Johannesburg or Cape Town) and come together. Meeting at a supreme spot in the Drakensburg Mountains called, Castle Burn. For the last 3 years I have taken Jacques along with me and as Castle Burn does, it has now embedded itself in his heart too.

This year was no different. April being the perfect time for Drakies weather with its beautiful sunny days and fresh fireplace appropriate nights. There is everything and anything to find that promotes relaxing and recharging. From canoeing to hiking, fishing to tennis, Spa treatments to pool, golf to horse riding, table tennis to trampolines and the most breathtaking view where I simply surrender to the scenery and enjoy catching up on reading. Castle Burn is my place to relax and recharge, and this year it was welcomed more so then ever.
Making myself the promise to no pack GHD’s or Make Up and solely living in my work out gear where hiking, canoeing and pool were the order of the day. Keeping active, while freeing my mind of Joburg city rush … Never fails to be anything but bliss.
What marked a memorable occasion was the handing down of my Step Grandfathers, 50 year old fishing rod to my brother. More magical, was the fact that my Grandfather, a renowned fisherman, who unfortunately now suffers from Parkinson’s disease and battles to take himself out for early morning fishing, was out on the lake when my brother caught is first fish off the legendary rod.
Thank you to my beautiful family for yet another memory made, of board games, birthday cakes and too many Easter eggs.
Until next year…

There’s one brilliant bonus to what we do, and that is Sponsorships. Jacques and I are lucky enough to have hair and hair products sponsored by MC Hairdressing and Schwarzkopf.

Recently we did a campaign shoot, and well, here’s the result…

This image will go up outside the Hairdressing Salon, and the team involved are eager to get it on the Greenstone Billboard too.

Thank you to all involved in the shoot, we had loads of fun and are only honoured to represent such awesome brands!

(Behind The Scene’s)

Honestly, I don’t know how I am staring at this O’ So Bright computer screen and actually functioning enough to find these words and place them in the correct order. Here’s hoping this blog entry makes at least some sense, if any at all. I am exhausted and it’s all because of one great evening we had last night, in the heart of Jozi. Turbine Hall, Newtown.

Greeted by a red carpet, outlined with Redbull Hostesses carrying the Mobile phone to be launched and photographers; we were lead into the massive concrete building which offered 4 or 5 bars, endless snacks, incredible entertainment, plenty space and many many familiar faces. Bumping into Emmanual Castis, Claudia Henkel, Heinz Winkler, Ryk Neethling, Graeme Richards, Jen Su … the list goes on.
We enjoyed the evening with Cindy Nell and her happy hubby Clive as they BOTH glow at the pending addition to their family. Another bonus was that it was my friend Kerri Rudolph’s 22nd Birthday. Perfect place to party!

I have seen some break dancing, but I have never seen the standard that came from the 4 b-boys that entertained us last night. With a soccer ball as a prop, our very own balanced the ball, broke down the moves, and bewildered us with talent.
I say the same thing for DJ Reddy D. Local and seriously lekker!
Goldfish too, one of my favourite representatives of SA music. And then Cell C, along with Redbull pulled a pretty perfect end to the evening, and brought out the splendid surprise that is Faithless. In an intimate crowd where you weren’t pushed and shoved, had ample space to move and mime, we enjoyed the magic. Every guest enjoyed the special and unique experience.

This weekend we are off to Midmar Dam, Pietermaritzburg, where my brother Gareth and Fiance’ Jacques have signed up to swim their virgin Midmar Mile. Having trained 5 or 6 times a week for the last 2 months and averaging 30 minutes a mile (1.6 km’s), Jacques innocently asks Ryk what his best Midamr time is… 16 minutes. And I watch how Jacques’ eyebrows simply raise with respect.

I didn’t take any pictures of last night. Although I know, without a doubt Jen Su took plenty. I’ll upload as soon as I have my hands on a few.

Well done to Cell C, and Red Bull. You raised the bar to what a South African Launch could and should be, And how spoiling your guests to the level that you did, really does leave a lasting impression.

Another season of South African Survivor in the works and this time it’s filmed in the beautiful Maldives. The shows been christened “Celebs vs Plebs” (Plebs? I know … It’s just so … Mean) Anyway. This season of Survivor I’ll be watching… Why? Because my man is a contestant.

To all those we were forced to lie to, saying that Jacques was in LA – Big apologies. Contractually bound to silence, I spent parts of October and November moping through life, quite literally craving conversation with Jacques instead of my cats. My dear friends and family; each taking thier turn to have me over for dinner. Bless them.

4 days back from a week in Bazaruto shooting FHM Calendar, and Jacques was collected from our home and driven to the airport, calling me an hour after arrival saying “They are now taking my phone away. I love you”
And that was it …

… Fast forward a few weeks, it’s our 4 year anniversary, I’m sitting impatiently in our newly decorated lounge (because that’s what girls do when they spend too many hours at home alone) I swear the time ticked on slower than normal; second after second after second …

Finally; 23h00 and my front door opens revealing a very skinny gaunt tanned hairy version of my boyfriend! 9 kg’s lighter than when he left. I quite literally felt sick for him; and honestly I was too scared to hold him too tight for fear of him breaking in half.

We never went to sleep that night; I heard the whole story from rat hunting to challenges, stormy nights to alliances, contestants to location… all while we scoffed down everything that was Jacques’ favourite.

Opening his bag to have his clothing washed the next morning and our house filled up with a stench so vile, we both gagged. The idea of no hygiene and hunger will never make sense to you until you have truly experienced it.

I am sure you’ve seen a few of the Mnet TV ad’s showcasing the likes of Vanessa Haywood, MXO, Hykie Berg, Carmel Fischer and Roxy Burger to name a few. The season is due to start on the 24th February (The day before my birthday – I’ll just throw that in there) at 19h30.

Ask Jacques if he’d ever do survivor again, and he says not a chance, but ask him if he regrets doing it at all and he’ll tell you it was the most eye opening, humbling experience he’s had and wouldn’t change a thing.

Whattever the outcome, and yup, still contractually bound to confidentialty … I am so proud of him!