Meowcake

Do You Realise?

2012-01-25T14:45:00.002Z

Weekly Gratitude #34

2012-01-24T17:52:00.000Z

Thank you for Prison Break.

Thank you for all the love and support given to my friend Roy after he was fired for having a mental disability.

Thank you for all the love and support given to myself from friends after I was rejected a job position for being over qualified :(

Thank you for hour long Solitaire battles even if it is a geeky thing to do!

Thank you to Mike's work for giving him a free laptop.

Thank you to Carpark North for making such brilliant music.

Thank you for amazing recipes such as Jar Cakes!

Thank you for my Ann Summers order. Their sale is fantastic!

Thank you to my friend Ben for helping me clear up my computer.

Thank you for retail therapy ;)

Thank you to Urban Decay for delighting me with their eyeshadow; Sidecar. It's the first I've ever hit pan on.

Thank you to Mike for motivating me to open my online vintage shop.

Swap A Skill

2012-01-24T16:15:00.002Z

Recently there's been an increasing trend in not only swapping but swapping skills rather than tangible objects. I'd previously read about the trend on the internet and a couple weeks ago, I heard about it on the radio so I decided to do some research. Over the past couple years, more and more swapping sites have emerged with the sole purpose to recycle. One man's trash is another man's treasure. But the concept of swapping skills rather than objects of desire seems more fitting to the modern day rushed lifestyle of 'Time = Money'. The best site I've found so far for this service/concept is http://www.swapaskill.com

You basically create a profile, mention what you're looking for (can be a skill as well as an item) and what you have to offer, even if it's just little things like being able to paint a wall. In this economy, looking at the financial state of the world and how hectic life can be, this sort of website really ticks all the boxes.

Obviously, there's the issue of whether you'd let a stranger into your home to paint your wall, if you'd be prepared to meet with a stranger to begin with etc, but you can also state whether you'd prefer to swap skills online only. On my profile, I've stated that I'm prepared to swap skills online and post items if need be.

This is my profile: http://www.swapaskill.com/1ec613fac4d66279687a34be0d2718af
Don't be afraid to add me.

If money is suggested, it can be a great way of earning a little bit of money, Not only that but you can earn experience, maybe even get fit (say if you were to walk someone's dog).

I love the idea of swapping skills as well as materials. What are your thoughts?

Random Facts & Questions Tag

2012-01-20T23:35:00.002Z

I've been tagged by the lovely Sarah from Kitten Nails to do this tag.

The Rules:
1. Post these rules
2. You must post 11 random things about yourself
3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post
4. Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer
5. Go to their blog and tell them that you’ve tagged them
6. No stuff in the tagging section about ‘you are tagged if you are reading this’! You legitimately have to tag 11 people.

The Random Facts:
1. I'm Chinese but I can't speak Chinese. (Useless Asian...)
2. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Fashion Buying.
3. My favourite band is Muse.
4. I hit pan for the first time today, on a Urban Decay eyeshadow from my Naked palette. It was Sidecar, possibly my favourite of the palette.
5. Nando's and Indian food are my favourite dishes. (If it's even classy enough to be called a "dish".)
6. I play the piano and can write music.
7. My pet peeves are: When people don't show any manners/respect and when cashiers hand coins on top of notes. WHY?!
8. I have 3 tattoos.
9. I want to get a cat as soon as I move out.
10. I'm obsessed with Toy Story.
11. I want to play Skyrim but my brother has my Xbox as well as the game and has not completed it and it's tearing me apart!

Sarah's Questions:
1. What did you want to be when you grew up? I'm probably the only person ever to have never known what I truly wanted to be when older.
2. Whats your favourite book? Flowers of Algernon
3. Do you prefer to focus on your eye or lip make-up? Eye.
4. PC or Mac? Never spared enough time on a Mac to make a valid judgement so as biased as it may be...PC.
5. Neon or Pastel? Pastel.
6. Red lip or nude? Nude.
7. Cats or dogs? Both. I cheat ;)
8. What was your favourite subject at school? French.
9. Star Wars or Star Trek? (or neither?) Star Wars. Star Trek? U MAD?!
10. What's your favourite blush? Benefit's Benetint; rosy but natural-looking and multi-purpose.
11. If you hadn’t gone down this route in your life, what do you think you would have ended up doing instead? Rocket Scientist....no, I don't actually know. I think I may still be in a similar situation but with details here and there altered.

My Questions:
1. What phone do you have?
2. What sound would you make if you could hover?
3. Tea or coffee?
4. What would you do if you won the lottery?
5. Has anyone been as far as decided to use even go want to do look more like?
6. What is your most prized possession?
7. What is the best advice you've ever been given?
8. What is your biggest achievement?
9. Do you own a car? If so, what car is it?
10. Are you employed? If so, what is your job title?
11. What is the weirdest thing you've ever done?

I Tag:
1. Bargainista
2. Coco Cerys
3. Dina's Thoughts
4. Hazel's Slightly Skint Blog
5. Life with Coffee Spoons
6. Make Believe Fiction
7. OMG, it's Jade's Blog
8. The Invisible Squirrel
9. Victoria's Vintage
10. Laura's Blog
11. On a day like today...

Even if you don't have a blog, answer the questions and post them below as a comment, I'm interested to see your answers :)

Weekly Gratitude #33

2012-01-16T17:33:00.000Z

Thank you for supportive friends.

Thank you for Pop Tarts.

Thank you for parody song covers.

Thank you for Nando's. Whole chicken baby!

Thank you for catch-ups with friends.

Thank you for pancakes and to my boyfriend for helping me make orange chocolate chip pancakes.

Thank you for Tap Tap Revenge.

Thank you for shopping checkout surprises. Exchanged some pyjamas for a purse I've been wanting for ages because the RRP of the pyjamas went back to full price ♥

Thank you for awesome jokes; Why did the chicken cross the road? I don't know. Knock knock! Who's there? The chicken!

Thank you for Ann Summers.

Thank you for Lego Technic :)

Thank you to my boyfriend's colleague/bosses wife for inviting me to her birthday party. 80s theme, can't wait!

Thank you to my friend Mike for reuniting me with my cat umbrella! Finally!

Thank you to my boyfriend's mum for the lovely takeout Indian on Saturday. My favourite! ♥

And to Amanda again for the roast dinner on the following Sunday.

Thank you for freebies!

First Collective Haul of 2012

2012-01-13T22:35:00.000Z

(1) Jingle Bell Earrings [Purchased for £2 from Tesco]

(2) Pink Slouch T-Shirt [Purchased for £3 from H&M]

(3) Mint Eyelash Angora Mix Crop Jumper from River Island [Swapped for FREE on Big Wardrobe]

(4) Gold Glitter Ballerina Flats [Purchased for £15.99 from New Look]

(5) House Blend Sample Coffee [FREE from Douwe Egberts]

(6) Medium Peri Peri Sauce by Nando's [Purchased for £1.99 from Tesco]

(7) Strawberry Sensation Pop Tarts by Kelloggs [Purchased for £2.45 from Tesco]

(8) Obsession Peep Bra by Ann Summers [Purchased for £3 from Ann Summers]

(9) Roka Slim Matinee Purse by Fiorelli [Purchased for £5 with exchange from Debenhams]

Weekly Gratitude #32

2012-01-12T15:38:00.000Z

Thank you for parodies, this week...The Lion King Rises; using the sound file from The Dark Knight Rises trailer with clips from The Lion King.

Thank you for TLC. I don't want no scrubs (mind the double-negative).

Thank you for hilarious news articles; French fashion chain in massive faux pas as naked bather turns up online in advert for children's clothes

Thank you to Mike. 5 months together so far and counting...

Thank you to Mike's step-sister and her husband for letting Mike and I take their kids out to the park. Completely froze up but had a nice time :)

Thank you for Pop Tarts!

Thank you for Mike's step-brother's company over Christmas. He's been a good laugh.

Thank you to Mike's mother for taking us out for tea. It's quite difficult eating chilli when slightly tipsy though!

Again, thank you to Mike for a lovely surprise card.

Chocolate Snowflake Mousse by Torie Jayne

2012-01-07T12:19:00.002Z

One of my favourite blogs to follow is Torie Jayne. Torie blogs about all things crafty, from paper arts to food, all in line with a shabby chic theme. Her latest recipe for Chocolate Snowflake Mousse had me drooling on my keyboard so I thought it was worthy of a blog post!

Her Chocolate Snowflake Mousse is part of her Winter Wonderland Dessert Table.

New Year's Resolutions [Infographic]

2012-01-06T14:25:00.000Z

A new dawn, a new day, a new life....a new year. Each new year is a motivational landmark for creating New Year's resolutions. Last year, I told myself to become more positive. But the fact I merely "told" myself rather than made it my goal for the year must have had something to do with the poor result. I made plans for the year, like an annual To Do list in a way, but the whole point of a resolution is to make you into a better person and I can't say a year long To Do list does that. I can't say I take New Year's resolutions all that seriously but I am going to try my best in becoming a more positive person, it will no doubt have a good impact in all aspects of my life.

As a whole, I'd say some of my To Do list for the year could count as a resolution, say 'Finding A Job' for example. But as a whole, I'd rather be positive/happy and poor than miserable and rich as corny as it sounds.

What would be/is your New Year's Resolution?

Do you think you can keep to it?

How Much Is Your Face Worth?

2012-01-03T23:13:00.000Z

There is a tag floating around the bloggersphere and it's basically a post that rounds up the cost of your day-to-day makeup. Over the past year, I've seriously down-sized my makeup collection, allbeit...I still possess a mountain full of stuff but I have narrowed down my immediate collection to fit neatly on a cake stand. Keeping this in mind, I predict the "worth" of my face won't be much.

L'Oreal True Match Minerals in shade 'W1'

£13.99

Rimmel Professional Eyebrow Pencil in shade '004 Black Brown'

£2.99

Urban Decay Primer Potion

£14.50

Urban Decay Naked Palette

£27

StudioMakeup Line Styler Pen

£12

Maybelline The Falsies Waterproof Mascara

£8.16

Sleek Blusher in shade 'Pixie Pink'

£3.99

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curlers

£11.50

Unbranded Blush Brush

£1

QVS Eyeshadow Brush

£2.99

No7 Blend and Contour Brush

£7.25

EOS Sphere Lip Balm in Lemon

£6

Grand Total: £111.37

Ok...so maybe I was wrong.

Weekly Gratitude #31

2012-01-03T16:37:00.000Z

Thank you for the best Boxing Day I've ever had, with Mike's family. The children are a real blessing.

Thank you for Lego nights-in.

Thank you for hot chocolate.

Thank you for The All American Rejects.

Thank you for Nando's.

Thank you for Crimbo Limbo. There's nothing more than sleeping in and watching Prison Break all day.

Thank you for such an amazing NYE party. Tears of joy :)

Thank you to Kavita from I Heart Vintage X for holding the Eclectic Eccentricity giveaway that I've won!

Thank you to the dry cleaner who gave me permission to be the "belle of the ball" in the dress I picked up for the NYE party.

Thank you for liquid courage ;)

Thank you Michael ♥

Christmas Haul

2011-12-30T17:53:00.001Z

(1) 1884 Scented Candle by Jaeger [Gift From Boyfriend's Family]

(2) Gucci Eau De Parfum II 30ml [Gift From Boyfriend]

(3) Polka Dot Pyjama Set by Presence @ Debenhams [Gift From Family]

(4) Pink Floral Union Jack Hot Water Bottle from New Look [Gift From Secret Santa]

(5) Red Peplum Shift Dress by Florence + Fred @ Tesco [Gift From Family]

(6) Cream Patterned Dial Gold Watch by Sekonda @ Debenhams [Gift From Boyfriend]

(7) Miss Dior Cherie Eau De Toilette 100ml [Gift From Family]

(8) Green Cable Knit Socks [Gift From Secret Santa]

(9) Celebration Collection Multi-Look Make-Up Palette by Dior [Gift From Family]

(10) Leopard Print Crinkle Scarf [Gift From Boyfriend's Family]

(11) Lost Complete Boxset [Gift From Boyfriend]

(12) Leopard Print Slipper Socks [ Gift From Boyfriend's Family]

(13) Silver Crystal iPhone Hard Cover [Gift From Boyfriend's Family]

(14) Replica Notes Bangle by Tiffany & Co [Gift From Boyfriend's Family]

(15) Pink Cable Knit Microwavable Slipper Socks [ Gift From Boyfriend's Family]

(16) Greek Meze Banquet For Two @ Bouzouki By Night, Manchester via Groupon [Gift From Boyfriend's Family]

(17) Glass Bead Rope Necklace & Bracelet Set [Gift From Boyfriend's Grand Parents]

Weekly Gratitude #30

2011-12-26T21:56:00.000Z

Thank you for romantic yet funny 'first met' stories. Mike and I met outside a club where I introduced myself as Kim Jong Il.

Thank you for Breakfast at Tiffany's. One of my favourite films ever.

Thank you for job interviews.

Thank you for funny The Simpsons clips.

Thank you for awesome inventions like clear toasters.

Thank you for TLC. The band :p

Thank you for The Other Guys. Great film!

Thank you for Game of Thrones.

Thank you for old photos.

Thank you for Imogen Heap.

Thank you for Snoop Dogg.

Thank you for cringey Christmas jumpers.

Thank you for Christmas.

Thank you to Mike's whole family for having me round for Christmas and Boxing Day.

Thank you for huge onesies!

Thank you for my fiver from Wrigley's Extra!

Marvelous Men #6

2011-12-23T13:58:00.001Z

S i m o n B a k e r

We Belong

2011-12-21T14:40:00.000Z

Simple Winter Collective Haul

2011-12-19T16:44:00.000Z

(1) World Traveller Journal by Eccolo [Purchased for £5.99 from TKMaxx]

(2) Dry Shampoo by Batiste [Purchased for £1.34 from Bodycare]

(3) Cable Knit Mittens [Purchased for £7.99 from H&M]

(4) White Knitted Jumper [Purchased for £9.99 from H&M]

(5) True Match Mineral Foundation Powder by L'Oreal [Purchased for £14.99 from Boots]

(6) Pink Glitter Bow Slipper Socks [Gift from Michael's grandma after being soaked in the rain!]

(7) Cable Knit Fur Bobble Hat [Purchased for £7.99 from H&M]

(8) Snakeskin Bow Court Shoe by Portfolio M&S [Gift from Michael's grandma <3]

(9) Flat Grip Plait Knee High Boot by South [Puchased for £10.50 from eBay]

(10) Festive Dozen Doughnuts & Plain Glazed Dozen Doughnuts by Krispy Kreme [Purchased for £13 from Tesco]

(11) To Make Plain Monopoly Slim 2012 Diary [Purchased for £9.65 from eBay]

Weekly Gratitude #29

2011-12-19T15:07:00.000Z

Thank you for The Buzzcocks

Thank you for nights in.

Thank you for old school reminiscings.

Thank you for Game of Thrones. Winter is here!

Thank you for the snow.

Thank you for jokes. If a quiz is quizzical, what is a test? ;)

Thank you for Facebook Timeline. It appears I'm the only one that likes it.

Thank you for internet memes.

Thank you for Puss In Boots, good film :)

Thank you for new winter boots.

Thank you to Mike for looking after me this weekend when I've had the flu.

And once again for Mike for sending me a handwritten love letter to my house. Soppy git... :p

Thank you for Brie.

Thank you for my blog followers and Twitter followers :)

2 Year Anniversary + Christmas Giveaway WINNERS

2011-12-15T14:21:00.000Z

Kimm & Miller Emergency Tea Mug Set Winner:

-DoNaH-

http://mnemonicreveries.blogspot.com/

Kimm & Miller Tea Mug For One Set Winner:

Jasmine1485

http://ntfancy.blogspot.com/

Congratulations and thank you to everyone who entered!

Christmas Tag 2011

2011-12-12T14:06:00.000Z

1.What is Your Favourite Holiday Movie?

I can't say I'm a massive fan of any Christmas film but I'm determined to watch 'Elf' this Christmas as I hear it's a hoot and a half!

2. What's Your Favourite Christmas Colour?

Gold; very festive yet modern and glamorous.

3. Do You Like To Stay in Your PJs Or Dress Up For Christmas?

Pyjamas of course! But then I'll get dressed in something nice but comfortable :)

4. If You Could Only Buy One Person a Present This Year Who Would It Be?

Probably Mike, my boyfriend.

5. Do You Open Your Present Christmas Eve Or Christmas Morning?

Christmas morning, always! Or just whenever I roll out of bed...

6. Have You Ever Built a Ginger Bread House?

Yes! I made quite a big gingerbread house for my first boyfriend when I was about 16/17. I woke up super early on Christmas Day to make it. He didn't like it. He also cheated on me that day too. Needless to say, I didn't stay with him much longer....

7. What Do You Like To Do On Your Christmas Break?

I enjoy doing as little as possible. Christmas has never been a big event in our household, once it's over...it's over. This year though, I'll be spending it with my boyfriend and his family which I am excited about as it's a complete contrast to what I usually do.

8. Any Christmas Wishes?

For the Three Wishes mentioned in a previous post.

9. Favourite Christmas Smell?

The burning charcoal smell from the fire.

10. Favourite Christmas Meal Or Treat?

Christmas lunch, maybe? I'm not going to brag about it being top notch or anything like that but I get to spend it with my family which is good enough for me!

The Bitterness of Men

2011-12-08T14:36:00.000Z

2 Year Anniversary + Christmas Giveaway [CLOSED]

2011-12-06T12:35:00.007Z

Much like last year; to celebrate the anniversary of my blog and upcoming Christmas, I am holding a giveaway. 8th December marks my blog's 2 year existence. I'm very grateful for my followers, so as a gift back to you guys, I'm holding a giveaway where there will be 2 winners this time.

I've chosen reasonably unisex prizes which are also great for giving away as Christmas presents or stocking fillers, so what you do with it is completely up to you. Although less trendy than last year's Henry Holland giveaway, this year you will have a higher chance of winning as there will be 2 winners as opposed to 1 last year.

The theme of the prizes is 'tea'. As it's starting to get bitterly cold for Winter, it's important that we wrap-up and keep ourselves warm. Nothing beats sitting in front of the fireplace with a mug of tea or hot chocolate. The prizes are both by Kimm & Miller, suitable for dishwashers/microwaves, both ceramic and come with 5 English Breakfast tea bags. The polka dot Tea Mug Set comes with a complimentary shortbread biscuit.

The prizes are:

Kimm & Miller Emergency Tea Mug Set

Kimm & Miller Tea Mug For One Set

Rules

You must be a follower of this blog.

No fake accounts.

To enter you must comment this post saying "Enter Me".

Extra Entries

Tweet my giveaway and include @meowcake (1 additional entry)

Add a link on Facebook to my giveaway (1 additional entry)

Write a blog post about my giveaway (1 additional entry)

All additional entries must be linked in your "Enter Me" comment (include url/web address - comment if you need help)

You can only do each method once therefore the maximum entries you can do is 4.

Notes

Giveaway ends on the 15th December 2011 (10 days) at 12 noon

Prize will be sent that day.

Any entry that does not comply with the rules will be disqualified.

I will use Random.org to pick the winner.

This giveaway is open internationally.

Weekly Gratitude #28

2011-12-05T19:04:00.001Z

Thank you for the roast dinner at Mike's grandma's. Best roast dinner I've ever had!

Thank you for the free shoes and fluffy slipper socks from Mike's grandma.

Thank you for sleep talking. Mike said he was a "pro at life" in his sleep. Yeah...whatever Mike!

Thank you for Cake. Both the dessert and the band!

Thank you for old LiveJournal blogs.

Thank you for rekindling old in-jokes.

Thank you for zombie dreams.

Thank you for Bradley Cooper ♥

Thank you for Busted.

Thank you to Mike for helping me make blueberry pancakes.

Thank you again to Mike for being understanding after I punched him in the face on accident, in my sleep. Hahaha!

Thank you for Cut-The-Rope, what an addictive game!

Thank you for future plans for 2012

Thank you for such a lovely weekend, I never wanted it to end.

Hello December

2011-12-01T14:10:00.002Z

It's the last month of the year and I can honestly say that I am glad for it. Unfortunately for me, 2011 has been one of the, if not THE worst year(s) of my life. However, it has been an eye-opener. I know who my true friends are and have a strong sense of who I should and should not be crying over. I know who loves me and who do not. Who is good for me and who is not...as well as being hospitalised for an illness no-one in the building knew anything about and none of my "friends" cared about either.

At the beginning of the year, I listed a handful of things I wanted to complete including getting a job, going on a date and enjoying a short break away, amongst other things. Listing what has gone wrong for me this year would be a pointless and depressing exercise, so instead here are some things I have completed that I am grateful for...

I've gone on a date (and subsequently fallen in love....aw soppy...).

I got a job (of which I quit because of unfair treatment).

I enjoyed a short break away.

Thought a little more positively (with the help of my Weekly Gratitude posts).

It's not a lot but something is better than nothing, am I right? And I managed to do most of my 2011 To Do list in my sidebar. I've already created a 2012 To Do list that I'll publish come the 1st of January. It is a little more ambitious but I'm determined to complete them all. Especially organising my iTunes library because I've been meaning to do that for over 2 years...ooops!

Unfortunately, I haven't got any Retarded Advent Calendar posts lined up for this December as I don't have an advent calendar, but I am planning on doing another Blog Birthday/Christmas giveaway. Last year it was a Henry Holland Media Case, this year I have no idea what it'll be but much like last year, it will be a small thank you gift and it will be unisex.

BERG Little Printer

2011-11-30T15:27:00.003Z

I stumbled across something uplifting this morning at around half 4am when I was rolling around in pain, in bed. The company BERGcloud has invented an ingenious although slightly novelty piece of equipment; The Little Printer.

Aptly named, it is a little printer. Basically, you download an app for it and it can be used in conjunction with your phone and computer router. It prints off handy receipt-sized information, from the latest news to puzzles to daily To Do lists.

There's been no sign of a price as of yet which in the end of the day, it all boils down to; whether the invention will be considered a novelty or a fully-functioning piece of useful equipment.

Aesthetically it's all there; it's compact, simple and will bring a smile to your face when you see it print off a receipt full of information, punctuated with a smiley face rolling into the metal frame.

Logically thinking, the use would have to equal or outweigh the price of the printer (and possibly the app for the phone). I'd say that it'd be worth the price if you were a busy individual, always on the go with hardly any time to write things down.

Current information about the Little Printer at the moment, isn't all that extensive so from what I know at the moment, the functionality of this product hasn't proven to be more beneficial than just writing your own To Do list and having apps on your phone to read the news/play puzzle games etc.

You can send messages to others who may have Little Printers but if you just text them from your phone, you save ink and paper in the printer.

Also, if you feel the need to print something out within the day and your printer is at home then it would be useless and let's face it, hauling it around looking for the closest router possible to link it to may prove to be impractical.

I don't understand the use of Foursquare with this product as Foursquare is usually based on real-time information. Once details of your friends whereabouts have been printed, it doesn't necessarily mean they'll still be there an hour later.

The positives would be that it's useful for those on the go, good for scrap-booking, printing reminders (face it, you can do the same on your phone but not all of us are always glued to them), printing out small pieces of information (saves paper compared to larger printers), printing information quickly, printing daily tasks (if one chooses not to have a diary)...

I'd love this little gadget but the use should outweigh the aesthetics to warrant my purchase. I think that this printer will have to offer a function that is not easily available elsewhere. In the end of the day, when you look to purchase a product like this, you have to ask yourself whether it will make your life easier and if it does, how much easier and whether this outweighs the price of it.

At the moment, I don't see this product being of any significant benefit to me regardless of price...however, its adorable face and slick hair do has me tightly wrapped up in this product. It's definitely one to keep your eye on.

Three Wishes

2011-11-29T14:57:00.000Z

I'd like to be employed in Southport by the end of the year working office hours in administration.

I'd like my relationship with my boyfriend to improve.

I'd like to have a healthy feeling of self worth.

What would you wish for?

Weekly Gratitude #27

2011-11-28T17:16:00.000Z

Thank you for macarons.

Thank you for Christmas flavoured pasties!

Thank you for The Mighty Boosh.

Thank you for tattoos.

Thank you for Dizzee Rascal.

Thank you for Duff Man (from The Simpsons), he's one awesome sexy beast.

Thank you for Christmas, I have finally gotten round to using my Cath Kidston Christmas cup :)

Thank you for David Cross, a brilliant actor and comedian.

Thank you for Hurts.

Thank you for Starbucks festive drinks, Gingerbread Latte and Praline Mocha done, now for Toffee Nut Latte!

Thank you for Rufus Wainwright.

Thank you for Krispy Kremes!

Thank you for pomegranate juice.

Thank you for Nando's (as always).

Thank you for Bullshit Man (Karl Pilkington) :p

Thank you for hilarious film trailers, 1 minute and 37 seconds into the new Puss In Boots film cinema trailer...

Thank you for lottery games, even if I didn't win :(

Thank you for Christmas shopping.

Thank you for Twitter, so much better than Facebook!

Thank you for Wheels & Dollbaby.

Thank you to Mike for being there, for fighting for me, for buying me presents, paying for meals, texting me in work when he shouldn't be...just being Mike really :)

Lust of the day...

2011-11-28T15:56:00.000Z

House of Gasoline Glamour

Chiquita Spike Shoes

$6,000

The Only Greeting Card...

2011-11-26T11:51:00.002Z

I dislike greeting cards, I really do. It's a waste of money and paper. For something you can just look at on the internet for relatively free, I find the point of greeting cards almost non-existent. However, I do appear to have an Achilles heel to a particular type/brand of greeting card and they're the ones from HazelBee. I don't know what it is, perhaps it's the quality, the unique-ness, the humour, the artwork or a combination of them all, but I really love these cards and I've found that these cards are the only ones I buy and the only ones I keep.

And I love that the company is eco-friendly...

Some designs that I love...

The cards all tend to be £2.40 each which I feel is reasonable considering I don't often buy greeting cards and can therefore justify spending a little bit more on that one card. A lot of the designs on the website don't appear to be that funny, however...I find that the more apt a card is to a particular person, the more meaningful and the more humorous. Not all of the cards are as blunt and rude as the above, these are just my preference! If the idea of buying something potentially disposable (understandable) displeases you, the website also offers things like posters, t-shirts, keyrings and all that miscellaneous goodness for those looking for a more long-lasting gift. I love the idea of the Re-Writeable Placemats, stick a couple magnets on the corners, pop it on your fridge and you have your own little chat-space.

Lust of the day...

2011-11-24T14:52:00.001Z

Smythson Diaries and Notebooks

From £20

My feeling of inadequacy...

2011-11-24T13:23:00.001Z

...is your joy.

Weekly Gratitude #26

2011-11-21T16:43:00.000Z

Thank you for the one and only drive-thru Starbucks near me in Deepdale, Preston.

Thank you for pub quizzes, even though we never win.

Thank you for 2-4-1 pub dinners.

Thank you for pots of tea.

Thank you for woolly hats and mittens.

Thank you for Bygone Times, an antiques warehouse near me.

Thank you for cafés.

Thank you for cheesy chips!

Thank you for Bingo, again...even though we never win!

Thank you for tattoos. Got another booked for Wednesday.

Thank you for Home Bargains, got myself some gorgeous cushions for a tenner!

Thank you for Heskin Hall Farmers Market, there are some great little shops inside :)

Thank you for The Lonely Island.

Thank you for vintage fairs, they're like car boots but indoors!

Thank you for Mike's week off from work, I've had a really nice time.

Thank you for talking and not arguing ❤

[Yes...that's right...a pigeon wearing a top hat and monocle...riding a penny farthing.]

Lust of the day...

2011-11-21T16:12:00.000Z

Yves Saint Laurent Y-Mail Wallet

£340

Weekly Gratitude #25

2011-11-14T22:23:00.001Z

Thank you to Mike's family for the lovely meal at The Vincent for his birthday.

Thank you for backup phones.

Thank you for The Big Bang Theory. 'The Isolation Permutation' was one of the best episodes I've watched.

Thank you for bowling with friends for Mike's birthday.

Thank you for get-togethers at the pub.

Thank you for Tap Tap Revenge.

Thank you for the wedding reception on Saturday. I had a lot of fun :)

Thank you for Pick n Mixes!

Thank you for free ice cream.

Thank you for Operation Christmas Child.

Thank you for hair dye, I'm back to my gingery brown self!

Thank you for potato wedges!

Thank you for my new found love for black pudding. Ew but yum.

Thank you for Ikea.

Thank you for Toys R Us.

Thank you for Premier Inn's for providing good rooms for £39 compared to poor Travelodge rooms for over £50 and poor independently owned rooms for over £80! Bargain!

Thank you for Jacques ;)

Thank you for drive-thru Starbucks.

Thank you for Inception.

Thank you for all things Game of Thrones.

First Thoughts on New Girl

2011-11-10T14:19:00.001Z

Not long ago, I wrote a post about the new Fox series, New Girl. We all long for television shows with characters we can relate to and New Girl is definitely one of them. Whether you can relate to being the odd-one-out within a group or to being the one friend who is a little bit too abnormal for society, there'll be a character in this show you will be able to relate to, whether it's to yourself or a friend.

The pilot to me was a let-down but there is a perfectly understandable explanation for this. As with most new shows, the trailer tends to cover a lot of the first episode and this show was no exception. I was underwhelmed with the pilot as I'd already seen the majority of it in the trailer. This concept also applies to films, most recently Due Date. So yes, that DOES means that every episode since has been absolutely hilarious (especially episode 4, titled 'Naked'), of which I am so relieved for. Previously, I had discovered interest in a new series called Love Bites which was beyond a let down, particularly because it had one of my favourite actresses in it, Becki Newton (Amanda from Ugly Betty). The show has now been cancelled.

I think New Girl is absolutely fantastic, a simple yet great storyline with relate-able situations and characters. It's easy to watch and full of humour.

Here are some clips from the series so far to give you an idea of what it's like, enjoy!

(488)

2011-11-09T13:17:00.000Z

Weekly Gratitude #24

2011-11-08T14:34:00.000Z

Thank you to my friend Josh for helping me sort out my boyfriend's birthday present.

Thank you to Lego for having me.

Thank you for Mike's new car. He loves it and so do I :)

Thank you for free alcohol.

Thank you to Amanda (my boyfriend's mum) for preparing Mike's 21st birthday party. It was lovely.

Thank you for Will Smith (HA-HAAA)

Thank you for good films like In Time.

Thank you for my first carvery tea. It was a bit too much but was yummy nontheless.

Thank you for potato wedges :p

Thank you for Regina Spektor.

Men are like pigeons...

2011-11-08T12:20:00.001Z

Sorbet Collective Haul

2011-11-07T15:46:00.002Z

(1) Organic Rye Bread [Free from The Village Bakery]

(2) Herbal Essences Shampoo & Conditioner Sample [Free from Herbal Essences]

(3) Hand-Knitted Daffy Duck Kids Jumper [Purchased for £1 at Burscough Car Boot Sale]

(4) Hot Pink Faux Fur Tail Keycharm [Purchased for £2.99 from H&M]

(5) Displex Scratch Removal Polish [Purchased for £2.85 from eBay]

(6) Rare Hot Pink Mesh Tube Bodycon Dress [Purchased for £23 from ASOS]

(7) Black Velvet Peter Pan Collar Long Vest [Purchased for £10 from River Island]

(8) Orange Textured Cosmetics Bag [Purchased for £1.99 from H&M]

(9) Pink Soft Touch Hoodie [Purchased for £8 from Primark]

(10) L'Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Lip Glow [Purchased for £6.49 from Boots]

(11) 500 Days of Summer DVD [Purchased for £3.50 from CEX]

(12) Heather Oxford Pillowcase [Purchased for £2.99 from Dunelm Mill]

(13) White Super Soft Microfibre Sheet Set [Purchased for £9.99 from Dunelm Mill]

'In Time' Short Film Review

2011-11-04T18:09:00.000Z

Surprisingly good; definitely underestimated Justin Timberlake's acting ability.

An interesting and literal take on Time = Money.

'Real Steel' Short Film Review

2011-11-03T15:16:00.002Z

Everything you wanted Robot Wars to be.

5/5

The Simple Dilemma

2011-11-01T11:37:00.002Z

With the help of my friend Sarah, we concluded that when buying Simple brand facial wipes; buy the packs separately, not the multipacks. If you have ever noticed varying quality of Simple facial wipes, this will be why. Those that come in multipacks tend to be rougher and dryer than those in single packs.

First Boudoir Privé Box Review [October]

2011-10-24T15:44:00.002+01:00

If you don't already know, Boudoir Privé is a beauty box subscription service much like GlossyBox and BirchBox in the USA. Costing £10 a month, Boudoir Privé sends 5 or 6 deluxe samples in a neatly packaged a delectable box.

I have never spent more than 10 minutes musing over whether I should purchase the subscription service as I always had a feeling I wouldn't have much use for it. I have for too many beauty products as it is and hardly have enough income to warrant spending £10 a month on such things. But when I found a half price code floating about online, I bit the bullet.

I'm not going to lie, my excitement had been brewing for a long time and when I finally received the box, I was more than underwhelmed.

Yes, the box was absolutely gorgeous and it was packaged more than well. But the product itself was a huge let down.

The leaflet/note that came with my box was folded in the corner, like someone had my package before I did.

Cetuem Illuminating Mask & Creme de Lite: These didn't appeal to me at all, are too small a sample to see results and can be obtained for free by a dermatologist.

Korres Guava Body Butter: Not a full size product but a good enough size. However, not a scent I like or a product I'd use.

Leonor Greyl Huile de Palme: Nice scent but again, not a product I'd use. Sample size too small for use on my hair.

Memo Paris Les Echappées, SHAMS Eau De Parfum: One of the most offensive scents I've ever smelt. Sample size 1.5ml so most likely obtainable for free.

Rose & Co Rose Petal Salve: Scent far too strong. Full size product but no use to me as the scent is too over-powering.

StudioMakeup Liner Styler Pen in Black: Full size product. Good colour pay-off and lasting power. The only item in this box I like.

There are 6 products but it appears that half of them are obtainable for free.

Boudoir Privé is now charging for delivery.

I'm glad I only paid £5 for this and not the full £10 but even so, I probably would've saved my £5 had I have known what was going to be inside. I already cancelled my subscription before the second payment was made. I would never subscribe to Boudoir Privé again. I'm aware it could just be one of *those* months but I'm paying for this service, I don't expect any of my months to be one of *those* months.

Welsh Weekend Break; A Wales of a Time

2011-10-21T00:52:00.007+01:00

Not long ago, my boyfriend and I decided to embark on a weekend break to Wales. Now I know it's no Barbados and it's certainly no New York but surprisingly, this trip was far from a let-down.

My boyfriend and I are always short on money and as a result, spend most of our nights, in. Mike's grandfather owns a caravan in Rhuddlan, North Wales so we thought a weekend break in Wales would do us good. I jumped at the chance as I'd been dying for a break, any break...as my Summer had proven to be one of the most difficult times I've ever had.

The caravan is situated in a little caravan park called Pleasant View Caravan Site. It is described as...

"...a family run caravan and chalet park set in the Vale of Clwyd opposite Rhuddlan Castle and the river Clwyd in Wales. The park is within easy reach of the Snowdonia National Park, Llandudno and other coastal resorts. It is 4 miles outside Rhyl and Prestatyn.

The park offers self-catering accommodation. It has 96 owner occupied caravan holiday homes, 8 brick built holiday chalets and lodges and 16 mixed pitches. The park also accepts motor caravans. The park has a range of facilities including a children's play area, a licensed bar and a games room. There are a number of activities available including fishing and golf." - Total Travel, Yahoo.

The journey to Wales wasn't bad at all, proving to take around 2 hours from Southport. However, the abundance of BEWARE BADGERS signs had me a little agitated, if I'm honest. Passing through small towns, you see examples of amazing traditional architecture, conserved amongst modern buildings and businesses.

One of our first activities was spent under the scorching sun in Llanfair Talhaiarn, as the UK was undergoing a seriously delayed Summer heat-wave. Now a professional writer would include an apt and accurate description of the tiny village, boasting its beauty amongst pretentious and long words. My description of the village would be "Village on a hill." The village is very small and situated on the side of a steep hill of which requires a lot of leg power to walk up. It's quite a site to see homes on such a steep hill, each a different level from the other. There are 2 pubs, a Post Office/convenience store, a garage and a river running through the village. Although taken away from its beauty and uniqueness, we did not stay long. After powering up the hill for 10 minutes, we returned down, meandered through the Black Lion pub and exited out of the other side, after seeing the food prices.

After this, we decided to head on to Llandudno. I'd describe Llandudno as a less tacky, more pleasant Blackpool. Note the Blackpool reference, as there will be another later. I'd happily live in Llandudno, it has all the major shops like Debenhams, Asda etc close by, with the beauty of a sea-side resort and the tourist attractions of Blackpool. It's gorgeous when warm and I'd imagine quite quaint even in gloomy weather.

Llandudno is not short of cafes, hotels and restaurants but as it's such a tourist town, it's pretty hard to find one that's not busy. In Llandudno, the very popular Whetherspoons takes stand in an old theatre and has been decorated accordingly.

After a quick bite to eat, we went for a stroll down the promenade where there was a motortrike gathering. Silly but very fascinating and very American! I also watched my very first Punch & Judy show! My, is it violent!? It was all about hanging people and eventually, after watching with my mouth open at the sheer fact children were so happily giggling along to the violence, Punch hanged and killed the hangman and then death himself appeared beside them. I'm sorry if I sound old fashioned, but is that not a little too morbid for children? I also learnt that 'Punch and Judy' is a show that tells the story of an abusive man and his wife.

Anyway, I digress...we decided to visit the pier after watching Punch & Judy. The thing about this pier in particular is that compared to any others that I've been on, it's traditionally sound. Nothing tacky and nothing too overwhelming. There are the usual novelty/tourist shops and some more twee shops like those selling homemade goods. The shops weren't packed together but were evenly spaced apart so visitors could take in the views from the pier.

The end of the pier wasn't a disappointment either. It has the usual pier-end building with amusement arcades but also a café for those who want a bite to eat at the end of the walk.

For those whom aren't peckish, there was an amazing view of the water and a delightful surprise...

I never knew watching anglers would be so relaxing. I'm unsure whether the space below was open to visitors if they so wish to fish, but the idea of an angling bay at the end of the pier was lovely nonetheless.

The day ended with a trip to the local pub in Rhuddlan for tea; the Morfa Rhuddlan. A short 10/15 minute walk in the warmth was relaxing in itself. We pass Rhuddlan Castle whenever we walk from the caravan site, but we never thought to visit as apparently, it's not all that interesting :(

The Morfa Rhuddlan is big and well decorated. It has amazing pub food and a bar. The atmosphere is fantastic, I really felt at home. It's not expensive and is situated right next to a Premier Inn. After a well earned meal, my boyfriend, Mike and I headed on home to the welcoming pattering of birds feet on the roof of the caravan and the soothing baa-ing of sheep in the background. Very Wales, if you ask me!

We welcomed Sunday with an early morning visit to the local car boot in Rhyl. Probably one of the best car boots I've been too. Good content (although a worryingly large amount of chainsaws), good atmosphere and surprisingly good food. It's relatively large and is filled to the brim with bargains, one of which was a Megadrive console and game for £1. I picked up some lovely high-waisted military-style shorts and 2 faux designer purses for £5 altogether. After the car boot, we went to visit Rhyl town centre. I'm not going to lie; it's pretty awful. Remember I mentioned Blackpool earlier on? Well Rhyl is like a bad Blackpool. I had heard that Rhyl was fantastic in the 90s, but it seemed to me as though it hadn't improved since then and as a result was stuck in that very century. The town has a popular Sun Centre and a cinema on the promenade but apart from that, nowhere in the town centre seemed pleasant enough to explore.

It wasn't all fun and games in Wales...although saying that, it was literally fun and games (see above photo) until my boyfriend and I got into an argument mid-Sonic. I stormed out the caravan and went for a walk where I spotted a cat which ran away, and then I reached a dead end. I wasn't done angry sauntering, so I marched my way into the village. I came across a missing pet notice in a shop window. The photo of the cat looked just like the one I'd seen on my angry parade so I rang up the number and informed the possible owner of the whereabouts of the cat. I was certain it was that very cat as it was identical to the one in the photo and after a short conversation with the lady, it also matched the location of where the cat first went missing. After helping the lady find her beloved pet, I had calmed down enough to make my way home and also because I needed a wee really badly. I returned to a distressed boyfriend of which I felt awful for, but I shared my good Samaritan story and we both made up.

Our last day in Wales was greeted with beaming sunshine as we packed up ready to leave for Southport. The change of scenery and company proved to be a really fun experience for Mike and I. I left Wales pretty surprised at how much of a good time I had. As for the cost, it wasn't too bad. The petrol there and back cost around £20. I personally, had spent around £35 on food, living and leisure for just over 3 days. I'd definitely recommend a visit to Wales for a short break and I'm pretty sure the experience will surprise you.

If you'd like to be in the chance of winning a European weekend break, why not visit http://www.travelizer.co.uk/ and see how you can find yourself sunbathing in Ibiza, sightseeing in Rome or relaxing in any other European city of your choice.

Weekly Gratitude #23

2011-10-17T12:21:00.001+01:00

Thank you for all things vintage.

Thank you for Lush baths.

Thank you to Soft Toy Emergency for making brilliant pop music.

Thank you for QI.

Thank you for mini catch-ups with old friends.

Thank you for Flight of the Conchords.

Thank you for bad movies, at least we can laugh at them!

Thank you for Spotify.

Thank you to Gym Class Heroes for making me so happy when I feel down.

Thank you for The Walking Dead.

Thank you to Mike for sticking by me, even when things get a little too much. I'm very thankful for everything he's done and is doing to make me happy.

Thank you Lego for sending us pieces to make little Formula 1 men!

Thank you for car boots and to Mike for catching me a Bulbasaur ;)

Autumn/Winter Collective Haul

2011-10-14T14:47:00.001+01:00

(1) Bare Minerals Foundation Sample and Mini Kabuki [Free from Debenhams]

(2) Bare Minerals Skincare Sample [Free from Debenhams]

(3) Limited Edition Glamor Glaze Doughnuts [Purchased for £1.35 for 2 from Krispy Kreme]

(4) Millie's Cookies 6-Pack [Purchased for £3.99 from Millie's Cookies]

(5) Bow Applique Top [Purchased for £10 from Primark]

(6) Nude Frill Blazer [Purchased for £14.99 from H&M]

(7) Cosmic Radiance by Britney Spears Sample [Free from Britney Spears Fragrances/Elizabeth Arden]

(8) Dove Deeply Nourishing Body Wash [Free from Dove]

(9) River Island Faux Fur Leopard Print Coat [Purchased for £24.99 from eBay]

(10) New Look High Waisted Military Shorts [Purchased for 50p from Rhyl Car Boot]

Weekly Gratitude #22

2011-10-10T17:48:00.000+01:00

Thank you for the most amazing week with my boyfriend, the week before.

Thank you for refunds.

Thank you for Nando's.

Thank you for We Heart It.

Thank you for New Girl and The Big Bang Theory.

Thank you for Steve Jobs. What a genius.

Thank you for Nevermind The Buzzcocks (new series starts tonight!)

Thank you for free cinema screenings! Real Steel is a good film!

Thank you for getting me to 2 months with my boyfriend.

Thank you for coats! Just bought a faux fur one that should be arriving soon :)

Thank you to Mike's family for accepting me into their family. Nothing more scary than the prospect of potentially being rejected by your boyfriend's family!

Thank you to Alison, my manager for giving me more hours within the week. I need the money!

Thank you again to Mike for his persistence in getting me a job I'll be happy with.

UK Lifestyle Box Subscription Services

2011-10-06T13:36:00.008+01:00

Over the past year, box subscription services like Glossy Box and Boudoir Privé have become increasingly popular within the UK market. But with even more services emerging, how do we know whom to choose from and if there are alternatives? So to make it easier for you, I've compiled a list of box subscription services that cater for the UK market.

I'd love to see some current US subscription services become more apparent in the UK soon, favourites being Soup Cycle (soup service), BabbaBox (baby service) and loads more unique services including those catered more to the male market.

There's always a risk that you may receive a box full of items you either don't like or wont use, therefore I would recommend finding a Box Swap site like Beauty Box Swaps or something in the same vain.

The following Box Subsciption Services list is organised in alphabetical order for your convenience...

Abel & Cole

Organic Food Service

From £9 per week

99p delivery over £10

Amarya

Organic Beauty Service

£10 per month

Boudoir Privé

Beauty/Lifestyle Service

£10 per month

Candy Japan

Confectionery Service

$24/£15 per 2nd week

Carmine

Cosmetics/Beauty Service

£10 per month

£2.75 delivery

Chocs

Chocolate Service

£17.95 per month

Craft Coffee

Coffee Service

$20/£13 per month

Delivery charge depends on location

Eco Emi

Eco Beauty/Lifestyle Service

$30/£19 per month

Eight Point Nine
Coffee Service
£5.89 per week

FeelUnique
Cosmetics/Beauty Service
£9.95 per month

GlossyBox
Cosmetics/Beauty Service
£10 per month
£2.95 delivery

Graze
Natural Snack Service
£3.49 per box

Jangneus Design
Home Interiors Service
£25 per year

Just The Right Book
Book Service
From $49/£32 per 3rd month
Delivery charge depends on location

Latest In Beauty
Cosmetics/Beauty Service
£1 per month

Not Another Bill
Lifestyle/Random Gift Box Service
£15 per month

Panty By Post
Underwear Service
From $16.50/£10.77 per month
Delivery charge depends on location

Pappirmasse
Art Service
$120/£78.39 per year

Quarterly Co.
Lifestyle/Art Service
$25/£16.33 per 3rd month
$15/£9.80 delivery

She Said
Cosmetics/Beauty Service
£9 per month
£2.95 delivery

Stack Magazines
Magazine Service
£4.90 per month

Stylist Pick
Style/Fashion Service
£39.95 per item

Tota Press
Greeting Card Service
$13/£8.50 per month
Delivery charge depends on location

Weekly Indie
Music Service
$7/£4.57 per month

ZipCar
Car Rental Service
£59.50 per year with rates from £5 per hour

RIP Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T11:42:00.000+01:00

Own A Colour; Save A Child

2011-09-29T14:01:00.002+01:00

"Did you know...
Your average computer, smartphone and tablet can display 16.7 million colours?
That's a lot of colours!
So we want to name each and every one of these colours for at least £1 to raise money for the children's charity UNICEF."

This is an amazing website my friend introduced me to today. It's a website in which you help save a child's life by owning a colour. Neat huh? You choose a hue, choose the specific colour you want, name it and then donate money from as little as £1. Even Sir Roger Moore has a colour; Swedish Blue.

My colour is a bright turquoise blue; #3ADFEB. I chose it because bright blues remind me of Summer. It has calming attributes but also bright and fun. I always seem to find myself using Captchas to name things, which is what I did with this and although 'Staboxim' is not an actual word, I chose this as it was a fun way of choosing a name and it seemed the most appropriate :)

You can donate via sms or card and you can donate from as little as £1 up to however much you so desire. Any amount you wish you pay can help save a child. £1 in itself can buy enough polio vaccines to immunise 10 children.

If you donate, link me to your colour and tell me why you chose it and how you came up with the name.

So why not own a colour and help save a child today?

Weekly Gratitude #21

2011-09-27T14:58:00.000+01:00

Thank you for all things wedding-y. From being invited to a wedding reception to unique/funny weddding ceremonies.

Thank you for The Lonely Island. Currently loving Jack Sparrow!

Thank you for well written films. I went to see Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, it was fantastic. Confusing, but fantastic. Gary Oldman has to be one of my favourite actors of all time.

Thank you for great music.

Thank you for pub teas :)

Thank you for pay days!

Thank you to the ladies in Liverpool One who were giving out free buttercream cakes to raise awarenss for the Liverpool One cycling program.

Thank you for all of mum's silly post-it notes.

Thank you for Lion bar cereal. It's awesome in a box!

Thank you for Obadiah Parker's version of 'Hey Ya' by Outkast

Thank you for impromptu meet-ups with friends.

Thank you to my co-worker Zak, for offering me his short shift on the 1st October so I could go to Wales.

Thank you to my manager Alison for letting me have the 1st October off for Wales and so Zak can keep his short shift! Also for letting me have the 12th November off for the wedding reception :)

Thank you for will power. My boyfriend Mike, has gone 23 days without smoking now.

Thank you to Mike's family for the lovely meal at the Fat Olive in Ormskirk.

Thank you to Mike for being so persistent in trying to get me a more suitable job. I love working at Lego but I keep getting short shifts and I spend over 2 hours travelling there so it's not worth it, especially if I have to work an hour just to pay off the travelling itself.

Thank you for my Suga Shake milkshake from Sugar Cane in Southport. A milkshake bar where you can make any milkshake of your choice using a combination of anything in the shop.

Weekly Gratitude #20

2011-09-22T18:03:00.000+01:00

Thank you for freebie/offer sites. They are the bane of my life but also a blessing.

Thank you for delicious Millie's Cookies.

Thank you for the pleasure of eavesdropping. Overheard a middle aged couple as I was leaving work; the woman holding an ice cream and the man shouting "It's never me anymore, always the ice cream!"

Thank you to Irene (Michael's grandma) for having me round while the boys (Michael and his step dad) fixed her refrigerator. We had some lovely conversations about soaps, work, life and France.

Thank you to Amanda (Michael's mother) for cooking a lovely Indian tea the other evening. Indian food is my favourite!

Thank you for Passion Pit. God I love their music.

Thank you for mashups. I love Pop Culture by Madeon.

Thank you for weird antics courtesy of my younger brother.

Thank you for films.

Thank you for karaoke sessions in the car with friends.

Thank you for Arrested Development. It was a mistake to cancel the show.

Thank you for reigniting my love for Viva Forever by The Spice Girls

Thank you to Abi for making me a card for helping her buy some Lego.

Thank you to Mike for introducing me to crisp sandwiches and cereal-in-a-mug.

Thank you for our new work uniform. They're pretty awesome!

Thank you for hilarious adverts. Currently loving the Birdseye polar bear advert.

Thank you for the Fresh Prince of course ;)

Thank you to Kirsty (Michael's neighbour) for popping round with meringue! It was delicious!

Feeling Blue?

2011-09-13T16:00:00.000+01:00

Tracklist

Alphabeat - Boyfriend

Alphabeat - Fascination

Bag Raiders - Shooting Stars

Black Eyed Peas - Gotta Feeling

Britney Spears - ...Baby One More Time

Capsule - Can I Have A Word

Chromeo - Momma's Boy

Coldplay - Viva La Vida

Daft Punk - Aerodynamic

Daft Punk - Around The World

Deadmau5 - Raise Your Weapon (Madeon Remix)

Deadmau5 - Right This Second

Ellie Goulding - Starry Eyed

ELO - Mr. Blue Sky

Girls Aloud - Biology

Gorillaz - Dare

Gossip - Heavy Cross (Fred Falke Remix)

Gwen Stefani - What You Waitin For (Jacques Lu Cont Mix)

Housse de Racket - Oh Yeah

Justice - DVNO

Justice - Phantom Part II

Katy Perry - One Of The Boys

Ke$ha - Take It Off

Kylie Minogue - Wow

Lady Gaga - Alejandro

Linkin Park - Crawling

Madonna - Hung Up

Martin Solveig ft. Dragonette - Boys and Girls

Michael Jackson - Billie Jean

Nero - Me and You

One Republic - All The Right Moves (Danger Remix)

One-T - Magic Key

Ratatat - Shempi

Solange - I Decided (Freemasons Remix)

Stardust - Music Sounds Better With You

The Buggles - Video Killed The Radio Star

The Killers - Losing Touch

The Who - Baba O'Riley (SebastiAn Remix)

Yelle - Que Veux Tu (Madeon Remix)

Long Time Coming - Collective Haul

2011-09-11T20:42:00.002+01:00

(1) Ice Cream Mix in Vanilla from Angel Delight [Free from freebie site]

(2) Little Round Pot Intense in 03 by Bourjois [Free from friend]

(3) White Scalloped Tee by Hooch [Purchased for £7]

(4) Lego Notebook by MissCourageous on Etsy [Purchased for £9.46]

(5) Aquafresh Ultimate Toothpaste [Free from freebie site]

(6) Burberry Body Eau De Parfum 4.5ml [Free from freebie site]

(7) Bourjois Volume Fast & Perfect Rotating Mascara [Purchased for £3.99]

(8) Sweet Sally Sewing Set by Rexinter [Purchased for £3.99]

(9) Nude Lace Blouse by AX Paris [Purchased for £7]

(10) Beauty Bible [Swapped for FREE on Big Wardrobe]

(11) Cream Cable Knit Jumper from Primark [Purchased for £10]

(12) Vintage Single Strand Pearl Bracelet [Purchased for 99p]

(13) Squin Skinny Jeans from Kids section at H&M [Purchased for £5.99]

Weekly Gratitude #19

2011-09-11T18:57:00.001+01:00

Thank you to my wonderful boyfriend for being there and understanding me even if it takes a lot of tears!

Thank you for common sense.

Thank you for Lush

Thank you for Star Wars! Finally got round to watching it. Granted I've only seen Episode 1 but I love it already.

Thank you for immature girly visits to sex shops! Haha!

Thank you for such an amazing time at the Lego Grand Opening. Super busy but I had lots of fun.

Thank you for encounters with friends whom you haven't seen in ages! It's great to catch up.

Thank you for fun times in work! We're such a close knit family as we all started out at the same time

Thank you to Rachel for being there for me when I need a shoulder to cry on

Thank you for real friends.

'The Art of Getting By' Short Film Review

2011-09-07T16:23:00.002+01:00

A very real movie with an impending soppy (and therefore shit) ending.

Oh and Alicia Silverstone is in it ♥

3/5

Well hello there...

2011-08-31T22:28:00.001+01:00

Just an update on what's been going on for those that care :)

My physical health is improving, I'm on the mend and I'm almost in tip top shape (by "tip top shape" I actually mean in terms of having this condition, not in general health muahahahah). I'm anxiously waiting for my skin to improve so I can party with my girl friend.

My mental health is also improving, although it's far from my ideal. I've been put on Mirtazapine as an alternative to Citalopram to minimize the risk of my illness coming back. I've been put on a low dose just to test the waters, as it were. I'm not going to go into detail on what happened to make me so anxious to throw myself off a high-rise building (hey, at least I'm honest) but being suddenly taken off Citalopram against your will didn't help, that's for sure! Things are extremely difficult for me at the moment, almost unbearable but I know that time is my friend as well as my enemy. Time waits for no-one.

I just have to say a massive thank you to everyone who's taken the time out to write to me and support me. Some of you I've never even spoken to before let alone met, so it's incredibly heart-warming to hear such kind things.

I'm back at work which I'm extremely glad about. I've finally seen all my wonderful co-workers and today, I managed to take my mind off things, even on just a short 4 hour shift. Seeing all the kids (and adults!) get excited over Lego is really something. It's an escape and I'm sort of sad that I'm only in one other day this week but I'm sure I'll manage.

I know the next few weeks will be a rollercoaster of a ride but I know that being strong is the only way through it. So I'm just going to have to man up and take it like a bitch (oh do mind my French!).

I'm going to settle in bed with some episodes of I.T Crowd (as advised by my lovely friend Olly) and try my best to keep myself occupied so I don't end up weeping to myself. Laughter is the best medicine!

If You Go Away

2011-08-29T17:41:00.002+01:00

Notes From Bed: Day 5

2011-08-29T12:09:00.001+01:00

[Re: 3 weeks and counting...]

Everything got so much worse last night, emotionally. I cried the equivalent to 2 Olympic swimming pools. My best friend doesn't care about understanding what's wrong with me any more just when I need him the most and I'm waiting for a text from my boyfriend telling me he's now my ex-boyfriend. This is one of the worst things that's happened to me in my entire life.

With every cloud though; my physical appearance has improved beyond belief last night. I'd almost call it a miracle. It's still not 100% gone and I don't feel as much pain now but I can go outside now which is what I plan to do today even though it's shit as hell outside and I feel shit as hell inside. Normally, I'd say that I was a quitter...because I really am. But today I am a fighter.

I deserve to be put on a pedestal not in the trash.

The pain of your little brother hearing his sister cry the first thing in the morning and the last thing at night.

I feel like I've lost everything.

UPDATE: I'm not a fighter. I give up. I have no courage. I never will.

When times are hard...

2011-08-28T20:03:00.000+01:00

One of the best Keep Calm posters I've seen.

This has cheered me up greatly.

Notes From Bed: Day 4

2011-08-28T16:13:00.004+01:00

[Re: 3 weeks and counting...]

1 1 : 3 1
I'm becoming an emotional wreck. I just pryed out an already broken biscuit from its pack. It flung out, landed on the table and broke into 4 pieces. As a result, I started crying.

I am still crying.

But now with the broken biscuit in my mouth.

Now I'm crying about crying.

Now I have moved the biscuits to the opposite side of my table as they have upset me too much.

I have reason to believe I am getting better as the rashes are disappearing. However, now my skin has starting stinging and my body is half rash, half bruised so now it's painful to walk. My fingers have also become inflamed and as a result, have become swollen. Something springs to mind...

Can't be dealing with stress so I've turned my phone off and limiting Facebook access. Calmly browsing through eBay :) Have my eye on a dainty Arrogant Cat camisole.

Finally sitting down to watch the Formula 1. Been missing the recent races due to work and other priorities. Today's is the Belgian GP in Spa :)

1 5 : 2 8

Just sorting out old clothes to donate to charity and I burst out in tears. Larvelyyyyyy.

1 5 : 4 2

No-one will understand the shame of sitting on your bed, folding clothes, crying your eyes out, lonely as hell and on the verge of throwing yourself out the window. All I can do is just laugh at the whole thing and hope to god, someone that loves me rings me and offers advice equally as comforting as a cuddle.

1 6 : 1 0
I feel like I've just been punched in the heart.

How much longer?

1 6 : 5 6
I'm doing the best I can but I'm being punished for it. The people that mean the most to me, care the least. My heart is in pieces.

Notes From Bed: Day 3

2011-08-27T20:26:00.001+01:00

[Re: 3 weeks and counting...]

1 1 : 5 9
Funny how it takes only a couple of days to completely wipe out all traces of self confidence and esteem.

I went to the hospital last night. Luckily I'm back home now but annoyingly (yet intriguingly) not many of the doctors in the hospital knew much about my condition as it's quite rare. In fact, several doctors had to Google it. I'm pretty sure I knew more about it than they did. I'm not saying that in a patronising and big-headed way either. Both of the NHS Direct nurses had never heard of the condition. The nurse in A&E hadn't either and neither had the doctors in casualty. The only other person who'd heard of it and had experienced cases of it was my GP and he himself said that not much is known about it. Just my luck eh!

My condition is still "spreading" throughout my body per se but I think it's part of the recovery process. I've started bruising more as well so alongside looking like a burn victim, I also have patches of purple all over my body. My body hurts in so many different ways, it's starting to get very confusing!

Singing to Sunday by Hurts and dancing in my chair is getting my through the day...

1 3 : 4 3

In a pathetic attempt to isolate the cause of my illness, I've taken it upon myself to only buy cosmetic products for sensitive skin now. (And eat healthier but I know this will never happen as I'm known for my obsession with all things unhealthy.)

1 4 : 3 4

I'm overflowing with jealousy that all my friends and my boyfriend are off to have fun tonight and tomorrow. My newly empty self esteem bucket means that I'm super paranoid that my boyfriend is going to end up in bed with someone that doesn't look like a bruised burn victim. I also feel super duper left out and discarded. As a result, I'm taking it out on them. I know it's not right but right now, I don't actually give a flying Gadaffi. (Hey...at least I'm being honest!)

[Can you tell I'm house-bound yet?]

1 9 : 1 2

Just when I thought my illness couldn't get any worse, it's now spreading to the only place free from this disgusting condition; my palms. Which will probably mean it'll spread to the soles of my feet. This is going to make walking and completing every day tasks very difficult. I must prepare for impending doom....ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT BOXSET.

1 9 : 3 5

Dear god. One of the most painful things ever. Had a shower. Big mistake. Stung like hell. Imagine Pinbacker from Sunshine, having a shower in acid. Yeah...that. By the way...Sunshine is one of my favourite movies of all time :) It's tough having to ride this out with no-one and no painkillers. Rarrrrrrr moment.

2 0 : 0 6

Only been a couple days and I feel I've already been discarded by friends and my boyfriend. *Sigh* Didn't take much now, did it? I spent a good couple minutes crying to myself on my bed. Oh well! I'm going to watch Cars later as a bid to complete some Lego homework! Fingers crossed that I enjoy it! Is Cars 2 out yet? Worth the watch?

2 0 : 2 1

Still crying. The closest people to me have offered little to no support. Feeling lonely as ever. I would like a chocolate bar.

I give up. End of post.

Notes From Bed: Day 2

2011-08-26T21:39:00.001+01:00

[Re: 3 weeks and counting...]

Another visit to the doctors. I'm now being watched and have been requested to attend appointments every day. What a chore! I'm also being sent to casualty if my condition spreads internally. Not only is the debilitating but this is a major nuisance. I had so much planned. I'm trying my best to look on the bright side but it's quite difficult when my condition seems to be getting worse and worse. Now I'm bruising. Fandabbydosy!

I'm going to make use of my time and try and get some work done. Lego homework usually consists of reading the catalogue and watching films that are featured within Lego products so Toy Story, Cars, Star Wars, Spongebob Squarepants, Harry Potter etc, so I guess life isn't all that bad eh!

My main concern are errands I have to run, I could get my parents to do it for me but they themselves are super busy. I have post to send, books to renew and odd jobs alike.

I've been entertaining myself with I.T Crowd clips, man do I wish I had the boxsets. I'll watch them online...TOTALLY LEGAL.

DO NOT WATCH IF OFFENDED BY CURSING

My copy of Pigeons & Peacocks magazine came today, this is the second one I have had. The photographs and styling in it are just amazing. I love how bright the cover is. Pigeons & Peacocks is published by the London College of Fashion with help from its staff, students, graduates and those in the industry. The majority of the attire used, have been designed and created by LCF students. This issue features words from Suzi Lau (Style Bubble) and Rico The Zombie (who I love!) The subtitle for this magazine is 'Fashion. Thought. Revolution' which I don't think could be any more apt. The magazine offers insight to controversial topics, in this issue; subjects like tattoos and exploitation.

Rekindling my Winter love for Hurts, I've discovered my joints have become very achy. I hope this is all part of the recovery process and not part of the you-are-dying process. I'd suggest you give Hurts a good listen. I was fell in love with them over Winter and I still enjoy listening to their music. They look hipster and act hipster but they make such beautiful music. I just wish they hadn't become so pretentious. Fact: They met outside a club near my flat in Manchester and I know someone who knows Adam's sister. Yeah man...s'all I got.

I feel really bad that I have my friend's brick separator. It's part of our work uniform. I took it to drill a hole in at home for him (to attach as a keyring) as we were both going to be back in work at the same time for him to make use of it on his return but now that I'm off for 3 weeks, he's not going to have it and he might get in trouble! >_<

God, I'm so ashamed of how I look with this illness that I've taken down my mirrors because I can't bear to look at myself and have resorted to wearing a burka style headpiece around the house. The annoying thing is that I can't tell if my illness spreading around is my body recovering or my health deteriorating.

UPDATE: As the doctor suggested I go into casualty if I believe something is developing internally, I have reason to believe there MIGHT. Upon eating my late tea, I found it more difficult than normal to swallow without discomfort. This could be a number of things but as said by my mother "Better be safe than sorry." She doesn't want me dying in my sleep I guess. After dealing with an unhelpful and patronising lady via NHS Direct, I have been informed to wait an hour for the nurse to ring back to advise me on what to do. If this is the last paragraph I write, then I bid thee farewell for the hospital.

Notes From Bed: Day 1

2011-08-26T11:59:00.000+01:00

[Re: 3 weeks and counting...]

I've spent the day just napping as I have nothing else to do with my day. Being sick is a bore. In other news, in sympathy...my older brother has purchased the first 2 Game of Thrones books for me so I'm waiting for them to arrive. If you've never heard of Game of Thrones, I'd definitely recommend watching it. It's basically about different medieval families battling for the throne. Now I know what you're thinking, it's not for you. I felt the same but after forcing myself to watch the first 2 episodes, I was hooked. Try it! Arya Stark and Tyrion Lannister are my favourite characters.

3 weeks and counting...

2011-08-25T17:27:00.001+01:00

I'd been coming down with a nasty raised rash since Tuesday and it's gotten worse since. I genuinely look like I have cat aids, and god does it feel like it as well. Today I was diagnosed with having erythema multiforme minor that can develop into major (Steven Johnson Syndrome which is potentially life-threatening). I've been given 3 weeks off work which most people would deem as a godsend but I love work and I'd rather be there than house bound for 3 weeks.

When I say house bound, I don't mean that I've been advised to be...but more that I WANT to be as the condition of my body and face is so horrendous that I don't even want my family looking at me and as a result I am confined to my bedroom. I can't wear makeup so going out in public as I look currently, would probably mean I'd be arrested for indecent exposure.

Because it's almost impossible to identify erythema multiforme triggers, I've been advised to come off my antidepressants straight away rather than ween myself off them (as I was doing). This terrifies me. Not only because continuation may cause Steven Johnson Syndrome but previous experience has taught me that I cannot cope well when I've stopped medication so suddenly. I'm afraid that it'll be the reason why my boyfriend and I break up.

On the subject of relationships, I'm going to feel so isolated. Not only will everyone be having fun but I'm going to miss work, my friends and my boyfriend so much that I will have no other choice but to model replica companions from paper, pasta and PVA glue. Not only this but the fact I'm still in my probationary period in work, means that I wont be getting paid a dime for my sickness.

The doctor said that he'd usually admit me to hospital straight away but they never seem to do all that much and with it being the bank holiday soon, he believes that nothing will be done (although I don't see how that affects my emergency). I'm back at the doctors tomorrow morning and he'll judge then whether I'm going to be sent to hospital or not.

When I get better, I'm going to be so behind with banter amongst friends, as well as any know-how in work and of course money. I feel like a child again, sitting indoors upset that everyone else gets to have fun when I don't.

I'm terrified work will sack me, that I'll feel left out amongst friends and that my boyfriend will find someone else less aids-y and dump me.

To say I'm scared is an understatement.

Here is a photo of myself with erythema multiforme:

[This is a 100% accurate representation]

I HATE YOU

2011-08-23T20:25:00.002+01:00

Professional Nude - Collective Haul

2011-08-23T17:44:00.003+01:00

(1) Cream of Tomato Soup Shopping Bag from Marks & Spencer [Purchased for 65p]

(2) 12 - 25 Railcard [Purchased for £25.20]

(3) Eylure Girls Aloud Faux Eyelashes in 'Kimberley' from Bodycare [Purchased for £3.99]

(4) Blemish Fighting Apricot Scrub by St. Ives from Boots [Purchased for £4.19]

(5) Navy Blue Suedette Bow Court Shoes from Primark [Purchased for £6]

(6) Black Suedette Pointed Flats from Primark [Purchased for £4]

(7) Grey 2-in-1 Blazer from H&M [Purchased for £29.99]

(8) Plain Black Golfers Tee from Primark [Purchased for £3]

(9) Cream Puff Lip Cream Colour in Power Puff by Collection 2000 [Purchased for £2.99]

(10) Metallic Bronze Ruffle Collar Top from Matalan [Purchased on eBay for 99p]

(11) Dusky Pink Angora Cardigan from H&M [Purchased for £15]

(12) Paint Pot in 'My Fair Lady' by Ciaté [Free with Cosmopolitan magazine]

Time vs Lego

2011-08-22T21:08:00.001+01:00

I love my new job in Lego. It's fantastic and I'm learning a lot from the kids that come in. However, I find that this job is taking its toll on me in other aspects. I spend roughly 4 hours a day just getting ready for and travelling to work. This along with 6 - 9 hour shifts 5 out of 7 days a week means that I can't find time to fit in my boyfriend, my family, my social life and personal time. I've not been working long at all but I am already exhausted beyond belief. As the store has just opened, I keep telling myself that things will fall into place soon but I just want everything to fix itself right now! I feel like I have to sacrifice at least one thing...perhaps I'm just being dramatic. Perhaps I've just become disorientated but it's making me unhappy and I feel as though I can't talk to anyone about it.

Weekly Gratitude #19

2011-08-21T22:25:00.000+01:00

Thank you for Walnut Whips

Thank you to Mike and Amanda for letting me come over for tea and stay the night. Your house is amazing :)

Thank you for all the adorable kids that come into work and the cool parents that come in and say to me "Thank you so much! That was amazing!" as they're leaving :)

Thank you to Sleigh Bells for making brilliant music.

Thank you for photobombs.

Thank you for Boots points. I'm at 1214!

Weekly Gratitude #17 + #18

2011-08-17T22:35:00.000+01:00

Thank you for bingo.

Thank you for impromptu plans.

Thank you for my fantastic job at Lego. I'm having an amazing time :)

Thank you for beach walks.

Thank you for funny quotes; ‎"It's like glitter. You think you've got rid of it, but it's always still there." (My friend on herpes) and "Might start having baths again just so I can play with it again!" (My friend on playing with Lego in the bath)

Thank you for chocolate truffles!

Thank you for completely nonsensical Facebook pages like 'Lying down in the cupboard pretending to be a plate.'

Thank you for my awesome Lego team :)

Thank you for The Killers, Halo and cake.

Thank you to all the police in the country for bringing the UK riots to a standstill.

Thank you for Hilton Hotel lunches ;)

Thank you to my friends who helped me build all my Lego for the store opening.

Thank you for the amazingly beautiful futuristic dream I had the other night of a sunset over space colony.

Thank you to Lego for taking us to the pub for drinks and pizza today.

Thank you to myself for my amazing Facebook stalking abilities ;)

Coups De Cœur

2011-08-17T20:46:00.000+01:00

Shame

2011-08-08T20:11:00.013+01:00

Riot Updates

http://londonriots2011.tumblr.com/

http://birminghamriots2011.tumblr.com/

Liverpool Riot Updates.

Manchester Riot - Updates 2011

Peace On the Streets: Live Update Manchester

London riots / UK riots: verified areas - Google Maps

Twitter Hashtags

#LondonRiots

#LiverpoolRiots

#BirminghamRiots

#BristolRiots

#ManchesterRiots

#UkRiots

Misc

PhotoshopLooter

Help Identify Rioters

UK Riots Key Facts

TRAUMA

2011-08-08T15:09:00.001+01:00

What have I done?

Hope There's Someone

2011-08-06T19:43:00.000+01:00

Missing Person

2011-08-05T23:39:00.001+01:00

It's funny how you miss a person a lot more when they are further away from you than normal.

Ainsdale Beach

2011-08-04T12:13:00.001+01:00

Sometimes something as simple as taking a walk along the beach can help you discover what you really want. Perhaps I should stop being so up-tight and just be more open-minded. I was only doing it to protect myself but in doing so, I found myself more lonely than ever. It wasn't ignorance or naivety. I think it was just fear. But then I guess you can't be happy if you don't fear something.

Weekly Gratitude #15 + #16

2011-07-31T21:19:00.000+01:00

Thank you for Jimi Hendrix

Thank you for romantic dates :)

Thank you for introducing me to new friends.

Thank you for coffee dates.

Thank you for job interview practise and my new job at Lego!

Thank you for nights in with friends.

Thank you for Chester Zoo.

Thank you for Edge Hill University. It's stunning and I had a yummy cake!

Thank you for my encounter with a charity street worker. Normally I try to ignore them but we got talking, he added me on Facebook and I made a friend :)

Thank you for the random drunken phone call from a stranger.

Thank you for Prince.

Thank you for Amy Winehouse.

Thank you to all my friends old and new for helping me become who I am.

Thank you for cute puppy photos.

Thank you for cows! I love the way they flap their ears!

Thank you for Horrible Bosses, it was hilarious.

Thank you for Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Thank you to Bar Humbug for hosting a fun comedy night.

Thank you to Don Luigi's restaurant for making such fantastic food and thank you to my friend's parents for paying for the birthday meal.

I got the job.

2011-07-28T16:59:00.000+01:00

Summer Collective Haul

2011-07-27T15:28:00.001+01:00

(1) Luxury Lip Color by Sonia Kashuk in 'Sheer Orchid' [Swapped on MakeUpAlley]

(2) Luxury Lip Color by Sonia Kashuk in 'Morning Glory' [Swapped on MakeUpAlley]

(3) iDivine Mineral Based Eyeshadow Palette in 'Monaco' by Sleek [Purchased for £6.99]

(4) Basic Children's Paddling Pool in 'Yellow' by Tesco [Purchased for £2.40]

(5) 60s Cut Jacket in 'Pink' from River Island [Purchased for £20]

(6) Toy Story Lunch Box from Matalan [Purchased for £2]

(7) Jelly Belly 3D Car Air Freshener from Tesco [Purchased for £4]

(8) £5 Topshop Card from Big Wardrobe [Rewarded]

(9) Black Satin Mock Book Bag by Ivana [Purchased for £3.04]

(10) HD Advanced Lip Color in 'Classy Nude' by Milani [Swapped on MakeUpAlley]

(11) HD Advanced Lip Color in 'Ignition' by Milani [Swapped on MakeUpAlley]

(12) HD Advanced Lip Color in 'Modern Mauve' by Milani [Swapped on MakeUpAlley]

Bande À Part

2011-07-25T22:42:00.000+01:00

I've really enjoyed being with you. I wouldn't change it for the world. You've left me with great memories. But this is where our friendship terminates. I wish you the best of luck in the future and hope you have a fantastic life.

All the best,

Natalie

Elie Saab Autumn 2011 Couture

2011-07-25T22:32:00.000+01:00

Chester Zoo

2011-07-25T20:31:00.001+01:00

RIP Amy

2011-07-25T15:57:00.002+01:00

For Norway

2011-07-25T14:12:00.002+01:00

Café Day

2011-07-20T16:35:00.000+01:00

Saveurs De France, Southport

Macaron display in Southport

Weekly Gratitude #13 + #14

2011-07-17T19:39:00.000+01:00

Thank you for Google+

Thank you for beautiful sunsets.

Thank you for the adorable old man who saved me from being hit by a car.

Thank you for the £1 bakery in Southport!

Thank you for http://www.learnsomethingeveryday.co.uk/

Thank you for making my experience as a charity volunteer so fun.

Thank you for Halo 3 (even though I am finding it difficult to rescue Sgt. Johnson!)

Thank you for such a great day at the beach and for a lovely pub quiz. I had lots of fun.

Thank you for frapes.

Thank you for 4 hour long conversations and the hot guy that works in the Manchester Piccadilly Gardens Starbucks.

Thank you for introducing me to new people.

Thank you for late night texts :)

Thank you for Tap Tap Revenge. Still obsessed. I play it before bed, every night!

I Will Follow Him

2011-07-15T21:18:00.004+01:00

Jamie Beck

2011-07-12T20:34:00.002+01:00

http://fromme-toyou.tumblr.com/

French Dorm Rooms Made From Shipping Containers

2011-07-10T23:26:00.003+01:00

Listen

2011-07-10T22:52:00.003+01:00

Dear Natalie's Brain,

I always find myself ignoring advice from you to stay away from certain people, because I want to try to live my life based on my own judgements...but I always end up making the worst decisions and falling for nothing but 'acts'. In turn, I end up pretty heartbroken and used when I come to terms with reality. So I promise you...next time you warn me, I will listen.

- Natalie's Heart

How's your leg huh?

2011-07-06T23:10:00.003+01:00

Burscough Wharf

2011-07-05T20:07:00.003+01:00

The other day, my friend and I visited a nearby wharf we didn't know existed until now. I've been to some wharfs before, but only in London. Wharfs are little developments by canals, often including bars, restaurants, boutiques, gift shops and the like. Although the name doesn't sound as quirky and interesting as London wharfs or even the likes of Potato Wharf in Manchester, it still offers a bit of uniqueness to the town.

Businesses include; arts & crafts, food & drink, health & beauty and shops & boutiques. My friend and I had a wonderful time at Box Tree Tea Rooms and had a nosy in a traditional sweet shop, a gift shop called The Hunny Bee, a homeware shop called The Storehouse and many others including Derrick Fielding Art and Pots U Paint. And the afternoon was finished with a trot along the canal...

http://www.burscough-wharf.co.uk/

More About Me...

2011-07-04T14:49:00.000+01:00

I've done the odd post or mention about details of my life and personality, but I thought to share with you some more. I love reading about normal people's personal lives on blogs because as opposed to stories in magazines, it's more or less non-gossip and the person in question does not reveal all for money like they do in magazines.

Other 'About Me' posts:

The A - Z of Me
Blog Award: The Versatile Blogger + 7 Facts About Me(owcake)
[Tag] 13 Questions

Do you have a middle name?

I don't.

What was your favourite subject at school?

High School/Middle school - French
College/Sixth Form - Psychology

What's your favourite drink?

Starbuck's Caramel Coffee

Favourite song at the moment?

Nyan Cat

What would you name your children?

I don't think that far ahead as it may not even happen.

Do you participate in any sports?

I'm about as physically fit as a common roadkill.

Favourite book?

Flowers For Algernon - Daniel Keyes

Favourite colour?

Turquoise/Blue

Favourite animal?

Dog.

Favourite perfume?

Gucci Eau De Parfum II

Favourite holiday?

Paris '09

Have you graduated high school?

Yes.

Do you speak any other languages?

French

Do you have any siblings?

Younger brother and older brother.

What's your favourite store?

None.

Favourite restaurant?

Nando's.

Favourite movie?

Alternates between; Leon/Breakfast at Tiffany's/Sunshine/Amelie

Sometimes Kick Ass.

Favourite Tv Show?

Arrested Development

At the moment, I'm watching Game of Thrones and Love Bites.

PC or Mac?

Haven't been a long time user of both so I can only say PC.

How tall are you?

5'3"

What was the last book you read?

The Alchemist - Paulo Coelho

Weekly Gratitude #12

2011-07-03T23:11:00.001+01:00

Thank you for this amazing Summer weather.

Thank you for classic Simpsons clips!

Thank you for weird and wonderful vending machines. This week, I learnt about the pizza vending machine in London and the AutoWed wedding vending machine in Cornwall.

Thank you for compliments from people you hardly know.

Thank you for people that text every day. It's makes me warm inside!

Thank you for film scores and soundtracks. It's amazing what music can do. This weeks favourite is the film score for Kick Ass, featuring a track that was also used in the first episode of the new Top Gear series.

Oh yeah, thank you for Top Gear!

Thank you for the autographed copy of Notes From The Hard Shoulder by James May. I pointed it out to the manager of the charity shop I volunteer at and they've placed it in the window.

Thank you for Trolli gummy burgers!

Thank you for amazing music videos. This week: Swedish House Mafia's 'Save the World'

Thank you for Portishead.

Thank you for Transformers: Dark of the Moon! It was a brilliant watch. I loved it!

Thank you for beautiful wharfs. Found one in Burscough, I had a brilliant day.

Thank you to my friend Lindsey for offering to pay my deposit and all holiday costs until I get enough money to pay her back! How sweet is that?!

Thank you to the BAE planes for flying by, planes fascinate me and I love when they do their testing near my house.

Thank you Sally's Beauty Supply for selling OPI for £4.75 each with your beauty card and for selling vajazzle stickers, it had me in hysterics.

AutoWed - Wedding Vending Machine

2011-07-03T14:49:00.002+01:00

"AutoWed is a novelty wedding machine offering a quick hitch, a couple of rings and a personalised certificate for just £1/$1. Audio prompts, specially produced music, a bespoke retro keyboard and VFD display, ring vending and ticket printer all wrapped up in a Cadillac-pink cabinet with shiny aluminium fittings. We came up with the idea last year and built the unit shown here this spring specially for Marvin's Marvellous Mechanical Museum in Detroit, USA (marvin3m.com)."

Marvelous Men #5

2011-07-03T14:13:00.000+01:00

J a s o n M o m o a

Final Collective Paid Haul

2011-07-02T22:06:00.002+01:00

As mentioned in the previous post, I've embarked on the half-a-year long task of generating/saving up £900 for my holiday in January. This is a toughie for someone with no job, so realistically, I am giving myself the full 6 months to gather this money, this is assuming that I still can't find a job within the 6 months. I have my fingers crossed that I get either of the 2 jobs I applied for, that I REALLY want. Obviously, any other would be fine but I have my eyes set on 2 particular ones ;)

Alas, I digress...I am setting myself this difficult challenge and therefore have taken it upon myself not to buy anything unnecessary unless it is an 'investment'. Already, I write everything I spend in a booklet and highlight everything that is a 'luxury' and not a 'necessity' in blue. This gives me an idea of how much I spend on 'crap I don't need' more or less, so hopefully I can use this technique to reduce the amount of 'crap' I buy. 'Crap' is such a wonderful word.

Again, I disgress...this collective haul post will hopefully be the final of all 'paid' hauls (until I have enough for my holiday). The following haul posts will hopefully only be of swaps on Big Wardrobe, and even so, I will try to only swap for things I need because the site itself incurs postage costs.

I hope you enjoy my final paid haul!

(1) Jersey Maxi Skirt in Grey from H&M [Purchased for £7]

(2) Jersey Harem Trousers in Grey from H&M [Purchased for £7]

(3) Pleat Neck Shift Dress from ASOS [Purchased for £22]

(4) Patent Pink Retro Belt [Swapped on Big Wardrobe]

(5) Ankle Zip Harem Trousers from H&M [Purchased for £10]

(6) Vintage Style Petrol Beaded/Sequin Halter Top from River Island [Purchased for £5.99 from Barnado's]

(7) Scented Nail File by Beauty Secrets [Purchased for 89p from Sally's Beauty Supply]

(8) Turquoise Filigree Ring from Diva by Miss Selfridge [Purchased for £3.75]

(9) Flake Away Scrub by Soap & Glory [Purchased for £2.35 from Boots]

(10) Falsies Mascara by Maybelline [Purchased for £6.19 from Boots]

(11) Floral Print Vinyl Cosmetics Bag [Purchased for £2 from Boots]

(12) Eyebrow pencil in Dark Brown/Black by Rimmel [Purchased £2.99 from Boots]

(13) Faux Ostrich Lock Bag in Tan by Loud [Purchased for £4.20 from eBay]

(14) Peter Pan Collar Lace Top from Topshop [Purchased for £20]

(15) Nail Lacquer in 'Significant Other Color' by O.P.I [Purchased for £4.75 from Sally's Beauty Supply]

(16) Nail Lacque in 'Austin-tatious Turquoise' by O.P.I [Purchased for £4.75 from Sally's Beauty Supply]

The French Alps

2011-07-02T21:35:00.001+01:00

Things have been really tough for me the past 2 years and it's taken it's toll. I decided to treat myself to a holiday of which, I have not been on since 2009. Although I am in no financial situation to afford any form of 'holiday', my marvelous friends have opted to aid me. The holiday is in January, to the French Alps. I wanted to try something new. I'd never been south of Paris and I'd never been on an activity holiday. The holiday will set me back about £900 for 7 days which is quite good but as I am a grad on the dole struggling to find a job STILL, after a year...£900 is A LOT.

Although my deadline to pay is in October, my lovely friend Lindsey is offering to pay everything until we go on holiday in January 2012 so I can pay her back then. Oh the joys of friendship! I hate borrowing money and I denied her offer several times but my pals really want me to go, so I buckled.

We are off to Flaine in France which is in the French Alps. It's absolutely breath-taking. My friend said that you can tell who the skiing novices are because when getting off the ski lift (they don't stop), they all face-plant the floor. I'm terribly excited at the gravitational prospect of my face meeting snow in this way...!

Have you been before? What what was your experience like?

Marvelous Men #4

2011-07-01T17:52:00.000+01:00

P a t r i c k D e m p s e y

The Power Of Retail Staff

2011-07-01T17:36:00.002+01:00

I was musing to myself the other day and I thought...

It's funny how fashion retailing staff have the power to make their consumer feel inferior in-store, regardless of purposeful intention or not.

When do you have your Christmas Meal?
	Lunch Time
	Tea Time
	Other

Meowcake

Do You Realise?

Weekly Gratitude #34

Swap A Skill

Random Facts & Questions Tag

Weekly Gratitude #33

First Collective Haul of 2012

Weekly Gratitude #32

Chocolate Snowflake Mousse by Torie Jayne

New Year's Resolutions [Infographic]

How Much Is Your Face Worth?

Weekly Gratitude #31

Christmas Haul

Weekly Gratitude #30

Marvelous Men #6

We Belong

Simple Winter Collective Haul

Weekly Gratitude #29

2 Year Anniversary + Christmas Giveaway WINNERS

Christmas Tag 2011

The Bitterness of Men

2 Year Anniversary + Christmas Giveaway [CLOSED]

Weekly Gratitude #28

Hello December

BERG Little Printer

Three Wishes

Weekly Gratitude #27

Lust of the day...

The Only Greeting Card...

Lust of the day...

My feeling of inadequacy...

Weekly Gratitude #26

Lust of the day...

Weekly Gratitude #25

First Thoughts on New Girl

(488)

Weekly Gratitude #24

Men are like pigeons...

Sorbet Collective Haul

'In Time' Short Film Review

'Real Steel' Short Film Review

The Simple Dilemma

First Boudoir Privé Box Review [October]

Welsh Weekend Break; A Wales of a Time

Weekly Gratitude #23

Autumn/Winter Collective Haul

Weekly Gratitude #22

UK Lifestyle Box Subscription Services

RIP Steve Jobs

Own A Colour; Save A Child

Weekly Gratitude #21

Weekly Gratitude #20

More Ready Than Ever

Feeling Blue?

Long Time Coming - Collective Haul

Weekly Gratitude #19

'The Art of Getting By' Short Film Review

Well hello there...

If You Go Away

Notes From Bed: Day 5

When times are hard...

Notes From Bed: Day 4

Notes From Bed: Day 3

Notes From Bed: Day 2

Notes From Bed: Day 1

3 weeks and counting...

I HATE YOU

Professional Nude - Collective Haul

Time vs Lego

Weekly Gratitude #19

Weekly Gratitude #17 + #18

Coups De Cœur

Shame

TRAUMA

Hope There's Someone

Missing Person

Ainsdale Beach

Weekly Gratitude #15 + #16

I got the job.

Summer Collective Haul