Winter Beauty Basics

                  

Well Hello there, internet individuals.
I hope this week's post finds you warm & cozy from the gail force winds, that happen to be attacking the UK currently. If I were in charge, I guess I'd say, we should all stay inside, & make a fort out of our duvets & consume our weight in hot chocolate & marshmallows. But sadly I'm not in charge. But I'll say it anyway.
This weeks post, is a little follow up from last weeks. It is my winter beauty basics. A few of these are products are new for me, but some are staple everyday favourites. I love them none the less. Like last week, I will link all the products featured in, this weeks blog, below. I've not been sponsored, to review any products. I own these products, & think their worth the monies. Boring bit over, let's begin. . . .
Starting with the base. I recently purchased Rimmel's fix perfect primer. This stuff is a beaut. Leaves my face feeling protected & dear I say, skin feeling hydrated. & leaves my foundation & powder looking pretty flawless, too. I have defiantly noticed a difference by using the prima. And would most definatly say, that by using it, it has increased my foundation's, staying power. This is all good in my books! 

 Item number two, is also a face one. It is the Kelly Brook blusher. In a peach / coral shade. It's looks & applies beautifully. It has little flecks of glitter, in it. Great for all year round use. It has a pretty bow indentation in the powder itself. My picture really doesn't do it justice. & is only £2.99 great for a little extra stocking filler, perhaps? I happened to stumble apron this range, while doing some, christmas shopping. The Kelly Brook range also includes blushes, a bronzer lipsticks, lip glosses, mascara's, brow & I believe 2 eyeshadow pallets. Which from what I've seen, all look really nice quality. From packaging to product. As well as a range of nail polishes. I was rather pleasantly surprised. All affordable, & available in New Look. 

 Now on to the lips, lushes sweet sugar lip scrub to be presis. This was a gift given too me. I have also, tried the popcorn & bubblegum flavours. But they weren't really for me. Like a lot of people my lips get dry during the winter months. But these scrubs are ace all year round. They are 100% organic & are completely edible. So if you ever need a quick sugar fix while shopping, next time, try some sugar scrub. Less calories I guess! This is defiantly, a number 1 in my winter make up bag. 

 Next on my list for my lips, is my Burt's Bees lip balm. My first encounter with Burt's bee's was from a glossy box. & since then, it's been a staple feature in my handbag. I hate having dry lips. & these are defiantly worth the buck. I have the mint & honey versions. They Leave my lips feeling smooth, yet protected from the cold weather. Along with the 2 plain lip balms. Burt's bee's also have a range of tinted lip balms. As well as a whole entirer range of bath & body stuff. When I run out of the two plain one's I currently own, the tinted one's, are on my "to try list."

 And lastly, a little glitter. If you know me, you know that I love a bit of sparkle. Whatever, time of year it is. But glitter is especially expectable during the festive session. This product is Rimmel's space dust, nail polish range. In the shade, Luna Love. I choose  this shade as I felt it was safely festive. However, all the swatches, I've seen of this collection, all look  particularly lovely. I wouldn't mind adding Total Eclipse, & Aurora to my collection too. The lasting power seems pretty good. The only draw back, I've found with this product. Is that polish feels very gritty. Something, I'm not a fan of. If applied, without a top coat. That aside, I love this polish. Perfect for the festive session.

Until next time, my friends. Unless of course I've eaten my weight in the wonderful kallo Choclate rice covered cakes, that is. xoxoxo 

Links:

http://www.boots.com/en/Rimmel-Match-Perfection-Fix-Perfect-Primer_1230447/

http://thebeautydepartment.com/hair/

https://www.lush.co.uk/product/388/Sweet-Lips-Lip-Scrub

http://www.boots.com/en/Burts-Bees/Burts-Bees-lip-balms/

http://www.boots.com/en/Rimmel-London-Space-Dust-Nail-Polish_1388173/

Budget Winter Body Favourites

                                          

Well it's that time of year again... There's defiantly a nip, in the air.  It's time to layer up, every time you need to venture out, into the wilderness, from underneath the comfy-ness of your duvet.  A lot like our exteriors, needing to be wrapped up under some funky knit wear. I feel pretty much the same, about my hair & skin. As the whether, gets colder I feel they need just a little bit more TLC, than usual.

So I thought I would include my current winter beauty & body favs. Starting with some of my winter body fav's. As it's the run up to xmas, all the products I've included are all just about, under a £10!  No need to Thank me. ;)

 Starting from top to bottom! First on my list, is a new hair care discovery of mine. Curiosity of Lush. It is the American Cream conditioner. Firstly, I love Lush, & many of their wonderfully fun products, but I must confess, I usually visit them most during the gifting period. I herd many good things about the American Cream conditioner, & as I'm a blonde, I usually find my hair ends up feeling a tad rough & dry during this time of year. & this stuff is a god send! It left my hair feeling super duper, soft & smelling great! This might sound a bit OTT, but after the first use, my hair felt like I'd had a trip to the salon. Not bad, for £4.50. As it was a "new" purchase for me I only committed to the small bottle. But I can assure you, when this baby run's out I shall be re-purchasing in the larger size.

The next product, on my list, is pretty much a staple favourite of mine all year round. But especially lovely at this time of year. It is the Soap & Glory Smoothie Star - deepest moisturiser body milk. It smells of oats & honey. It just smells  so comforting & yummy. & leaves your skin silky smooth. It's currently on a 3 for 2 offer at Boots right now. If you love Soap & Glory as much as I do, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up of you're favourites! 

Next, is a winter body wash. From Beauticology called chocolate cupcake. Beauticology is an extension of the Baylis & Harding company. This particular body wash,  actually comes, from a little gift set.  Available in Boots or Tesco. I'm not usually a fan, of chocolate smelling scents, but this one breaks the rule, for me. It smells good, if I was going to liken it to a scent, I'd say an indulgent chocolate truffle, perhaps. I've found a little goes a long way, & it sparkles. What else need I say?

The next product on my list, is a winter essential for me. It's hand cream! Like my hair, my hands tend to get dry during the winter months. This hand cream is from Avon. This particular hand cream, is non scented. For normal / dry skin. It leaves your hands feeling soft, for a fair amount of time. But not slippery. Meaning you that your left unable to use them, until the cream has dried.You don't need to use a ton of it, too feel the benefit & it's good for your nails too! & to top it off it's a bargain.

Last but not least, on my winter body fav's is also a new Lush discovery, for me. It is the catastrophe cosmetic fresh face mask. My god, this is a treat for the face. I mean that in every literal way possible. This is a fresh face mask which means, it needs to be stored in the fridge! As I have sensitive skin, after a lengthy discussion with my local sales assistant, & after some trying, testing & prodding we decided this was the one for me. This face mask, is full of blueberries, chamomile & Irish moss. Whatever that maybe. But it all works. So you don't hear me, complaining. How to use the mask, is pretty self explanatory. You apply the product, generously to you're face, avoiding you're mouth & eyes. You can leave it on for 5 -10 minutes. I tend to leave it on for 10. & rinse off with warm water. You maybe worrying like I did, about the products shelf life, it being fresh & all. But if stored correctly, the product should last over a month.

 Hope you enjoyed this weeks post, I will link all the products below. For you to all browse! xox 

https://www.lush.co.uk/product/26/100g-SMALL-American-Cream-Conditioner

http://www.boots.com/en/Soap-Glory-Smoothie-Star-8482-Body-Lotion-500ml_1273146/

http://www.boots.com/en/Baylis-and-Harding-Beauticology-Stacking-Gifts_1363318/

http://avonshop.co.uk/product/bath-and-body/hand-cream/avon-care-xmas-hand-cream.html

https://www.lush.co.uk/product/79/Catastrophe-Cosmetic-Fresh-Face-Mask

  

Christmas Gift Guide, For Her. Under £20!

Well Hello there,

I believe it's gotten just a little bit festive, since the last time we spoke!

 I know, that Christmas is a bit like marmite to some. But I love it! 

The lights, the decorations, not so much the music. 

 But in general, I am pro Christmas! 

However something I've always found difficult, over the Christmas period, is gifting within a budget! I genuinely love gifting, so I almost always end up buying extra. So I thought I'd share a couple of my gifting / stocking filler, idea's with you. Whether its for your wife, girlfriend, mother, aunt, sister, or niece. 

Now I know that everybody is different. So I have tried my hardest to include a verity of gifts. & some little stocking filler if you fancy being just that little bit generous. 

Number 1. On my list is the Remington Pearl CI95 Curling Wand. In light, of Babyliss realising, the new pro perfect curl. Retailing in at £120. With some not so great reviews. This is a great alliterative, for practically next to nothing. Great for curling your hair. For all those, christmas parties you maybe attending this year. Currently retailing on amazon for, £12.46.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Remington-Pearl-CI95-Curling-Wand/dp/B003SWZOKI/ref=sr_1_4?s=drugstore&ie=UTF8&qid=1384679189&sr=1-4&keywords=Remington

Number 2. On my list of goodies, are these ever so cute, Neom Three Nights of Peace. Bath oils. There is nothing like a nice hot bath after a freezing journey home. & even though they look tiny, you can get 2-3 baths out of every bottle. A perfect way for a bath lover to sample a new product. Retailing at £10. Neomorganics.com

Number 3. On my list, are these little beauties from Soup & Glory. Which are, the loved & glossed gift set. This gift set includes a trio of Soap & Glory's best selling Mother Pucker Gloss sticks. In shades: Nudist, Fuschia-Ristic & Plum Jam. I swear by these babies. Thhey are like a gloss but without any of the awful stickiness. Really hydrating for your lips & beautifully pigmented. £16. http://www.boots.com/en/Soap-Glory-Loved-Glossed-Gift-Set_1375477/

Number 4. This is another gem, I happened to come across in Boots. It's The No 7 Fongers & Toes gift set. This gift set is a real treat, for those who like to keep their nail's in tip-top condition. For the perfect manicure & pedicure, everytime. This set includes:  

No7 Revitalising Hand Saviour (75ml)

No7 Softening Foot Balm (75ml)

No7 Nail Polish Salsa

No7 Nail Polish Temptress

No7 Nail Polish Betty Blues

No7 Nail Polish Hot To Trot

No7 Nail Polish Gold Glitter Top Coat

No7 Nail Polish Silver Glitter Top Coat.

A Bargin, for £20! 

http://www.boots.com/en/No7-Fingers-and-Toes_1375463/

Number 5. Everybody likes to be, just a little bit naughty at Christmas time. & Tesco Finest, have brought out a lovely range of Truffles including a scrummie set of salted caramel flavoured ones. Retailing at £6. Perfect for a little stoking filler.http://www.tesco.com/groceries/Product/Details/?id=278557727

Number 6. Christmas just wouldn't be Christmas, in my house anyway! If you didn't get any cosy slipper & socks. The cuter & fluffier the better! Accessorize have some crackers, right now. In both the sock & slipper department! 

Socks: http://uk.accessorize.com/uk/winter-shop/tights-and-socks 

Slippers: http://uk.accessorize.com/uk/winter-shop/slippers?pageSize=12&page=3&showAll=

Number 7. I love a good christmas candle, to get me into the festive Spirt. And right now, Yankee Candle are being very generous, with their online store. With unto 50% off. With some great gift sets available. http://www.yankee.co.uk/up-to-50-off?gclid=CNilydbL67oCFeoJwwodL3wAVg

Number 8. Now I like a good book, & so do a lot of my friends! & I think Books & Gift vouchers, can be a great gift especially, if you're not 100 percent sure on what, you could gift to a friend. 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=

Healthy Oven Baked Meatball Recipe

 Oven Baked Meatballs

                

   

Since posting my autumn bucketlist, I have been inspired to post a few of my favourite recipes, to make when the weather turns a little bit colder outside. And since I've woken up to the news, of snow, in some parts of the UK. I figured, there's no time like the present.

If like me, you enjoy filling food, but like too keep an eye on the calorie count this is one for you. & if you have kids that like to help out in the kitchen, this is a good one. This recipe serves 4 and can be frozen.

For this recipe you will need, for the meatballs:

2 large onions.

500g lean minced beef or if you prefer you can substitute the beef mince, with lean turkey mince instead!

1 small egg.

2 tsp of oregano or Italian herb mix.

2 garlic cloves crushed.

salt and ground pepper.

The Sauce:

400g can of chopped tomatoes.

1 tsp of sweetener.

400g of passata, I like the one with herbs or basil.
150ml hot vegetable / beef stock.

2 medium courgettes. Trimmed and cut into chunks.

200g of mushrooms. Cut into chunks.

Preheat oven to 200 degrees C /Gas mark 6.

Put half the chopped onions in a large bowel, with the minced beef mixed herbs, garlic and seasoning, and small egg. Mix well, and divide into 20 portions. Roll each portion into a ball and chill in the fridge for an 30 mins or until ready to use.

In a large roasting dish, mix together the remaining onion, chopped tomatoes, passata, vegetable / beef stock, courgettes and mushrooms. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 50 minutes. Stir in meatballs and bake for a further 40 minutes.

Serve with pasta of your choice and enjoy!

Affordable Autumn Lookbook

  

                          

Well Hello their ladies & gentleman, 

  This weeks Blog post is a little autumn lookbook, that I decided to compose. 

Mainly because I love autumn, it's my fav time of year. The changing of the seasons, autumn leaves & damp grass. Nothing beats it.

So  the clothes I've chosen are, baggy comfy kind of, clothes that you can get in the UK, around this time of year. With some good old knitwear thrown in for good autumnal measure. This time of year, defiantly suits my style. 

 As I'm new to this, I have only created 3 outfits. But all of which, I wear on a daily basis. As you may have noticed from the title, of this blog. I'm doing an affordable lookbook as some of the items are not brand new, but are well loved, by me & perfect for this time of year. 

 As you can see, I've stuck with neutral colours, with added animal print, (It's in this autumn, I swear.) To give the outfits a little kick.

Outfit Number 1:

Baggy cream jumper, with hole detail, by the shoulders & down the back. - Asda. £8.00.

Plain Black vest top underneath. - Primark -£3.00.

Leopard print scarf. - Gift So I'm not sure.

Rose gold, bangles. - Lisa Angel. £12.00 (I think, my mum got them for me as a birthday gift.)

Burgundy jeans. - Dorothy Perkins £15.00.

Leopard print pumps. - Asda £12.00.

Outfit Number 2:

Grey bobble hat. - New Look (Last winter) £4.99.

Pink Jumper with rose gold studs. - Dorothy Perkins. £15.99.

Grey Duffle coat. - Select. (Last Winter) £20.00.

Black Leggins. - Primark. £4.00.

Brown Studded boots. - New Look. (Last winter) £22.99.

Outfit Number 3:

Dress with leopard print peter  pan collar. - New Look. (Summer sale) £7.99.

Black tights Pack of 2.  - Primark. £3.00.

Satchel. - Boros. (Birthday gift. Price unknown.)

Brogue's - Schuch. (Last summer) £20.99. 

Campfire Casserole

                         

Hi there guy's,

I quite enjoy adding my little foodie post's into this blog, & I think you guy's enjoyed it too?

 I'm enjoying eating, healthy home cooked grub, at the moment. As I'm trying to eat healthier & keep an eye on the calories. & this recipe is a household fave, in our house, right now. 

It is The campfire casserole. 

The recipe severs 4. is Freezable & veggie friendly!

Ingredients:

300g of quorn sausages.

or if you prefer 6 low fat sausages.

Some Frylight or Vegetable oil.

1 Medium onion. 

Half a butternut squash or 3 medium carrots.

2 Perepers (Red or yellow as they are sweetest.) 

2 Garlic cloves. Crushed.

1tsp of smoked paprika.

300ml of vegetable or chicken stock.

1 tin of baked beans.

150g Green beans.

A small handful of flat leaf parsley for decoration.

1) Pre-heat a large frying pan & spray with frylight. Cook sausages according to the instructions on the packet. Once cooked transfer sausages to a plate & slice into chucks.

Return the frying pan to a medium heat. Spray pan with Frylight & add onion & soften for 4-5 minutes. Until softened.

Add the squash / carrot, peppers, & garlic. Stir in a tsp of paprika & cook for 2-3 minutes.

2) Add the baked beans & 300ml of stock & Seasoning. Bring the pan to the boil. Stir & reduct the heat to medium - low, cover & simmer for 15 minutes. Stirring occasionally.  

3) Uncover pan & Add the sausages, green beans & any extra stock, if needed. ooh for a further 5 minutes Until veg is tender. 

Serve with New potatoes, mash Or goes great with a jacket potato.

Yankee Candle Love

                                   

Hi Guys,

This weeks blog post, is continuing along the autumn theme. But on a newer discovery of mine. And as you can probably tell, it happens to be a well known candle brand. 

Now don't get me wrong, I haven't been living under a rock or anything. . . . 

 I am well aware of the Yankee brand & there wide selection of senses, that they have to offer. 

 However, I recently went on a hunt, to get the house feeling a little bit more autumnal. With they grey days, & the nights drawing in, & not to mention, being inspired by all the bath & bodywork, hauls that seems to be circling youtube. 

I decided, to take the time, to actually smell some candles. There I said it, any men that may read this blog, I understand if this post, isn't to your taste!

I don't usually, treat myself to candles, & often the candles that I am gifted happen to be fragrances-less. Which I totally understand, as I find smell extremely personal, to each individual. Which I think, makes it had to choose, as a gift. 

I learnt from my little experience, that I enjoy sweeter lighter sense, to stronger spicy smells. If like me, you'd like to acquire a few more candles, to make your abode feel more seasonal. I would totally recommend, the Yankee Candle: Fireside Treats Marshmallow grilles candle. It smells exactly like a toasted marshmallow, but without being overpoweringly sickly.

 I purchased the small perfect pillar. As it was on offer for £9.00. But I have found it online, for £6.00. That teaches me to shop around!

 It even burns to look like a flipping marshmallow, which made me smile. 

 When I enquired about the average burning time, it says about 35-40 minutes. Which, I think is a pretty long time.

 I think these candles, would make a great gift, if your stuck for idea's. If like me your on a bit of a budget, be a bit cheeky & if theres any sense you like, make a note, & shop around, online for some bargains. 

Maybeline Baby lips

Hey there guy's,

Firstly, I must apologise for not posting last week. The time, just ran away from me. & secondly how is it October already?

Now I don't know about you guys, but I'm a big fan of lip balm. As you may, or may not be, able to tell from some of my previous post's.

I think this is mainly because I do, suffer from dry lips. Especially in the winter, & I hate it. Because, I do tend to suffer from slight dryness. Unless I'm going out, out. . . I tend to steer clear of lip glosses. & when I do tend to choose lip shades, I  always seem to sway towards subtle shades, on offer.  

 So when I saw that Maybeline, had brought out a lip balm range. With a tint in it, none the less. It seemed to me, to be the best of both worlds.

In this range, there are 6 lip balms in total.  All of which, claim to give your lip's 8 hours of hydration. For "baby soft lips" 

The Hydrate, Intense Care, & Mint Fresh, lip balms, all contain SPF 20, which is good, if you live in a sunny climate. Or happen to be going on your travels, sometime soon. Burnt lips are defiantly a no, no, in the holiday photo album! However these 3 balms do not contain a tint to them. 

The other 3 lip balms in this range, are: Cherry Me, Pink Punch, & Peach Kisses. Which all have, a nicely pigmented tint to them. 

 The 2 balms, which I have chosen to purchase, were Pink Punch & Peach Kisses. 

They have great pigmentation for a lip balm. With a wonderful shine to them. They stay put, not making you feel like you need to keep re-applying every five minutes. My lips feel hydrated after use, & if like me, you hate the sticky quality, that most lip glosses leave behind, these babies are for you. 

 And lastly, they all smell amazing too. The current retail price, for these balms are: £2.99 each. I know Boots & Superdrug have them all, in store on a 3 for 2 offer right now, who could say no! 

                         

    

L'Oreal Paris Skin Perfection (Pixel Perfect) Review

                    

   

Hello there lovelies,

 As you may have concluded, this weeks post is a review post. 

It's 2013 and let me tell you, L'Oreal are on fire! With their skin care ranges, Right now. It all started with the 3 in 1 miracle water, which I totally swear by at the mo. If you would like to read more about the 3 in 1 miracle water, you can find it here…. http://oxhannah-g23ox.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/loreal-skin-perfection-3-in-1-miracle.html

So when I stumbled upon the skin perfection, pixel perfect daily moisturiser & the magic touch instant blur. I just couldn't stop myself. I had to give them a try, &  I must admit I haven't been disappointed. 

The Skin Perfection Pixel Perfect Range, has been specially developed, for younger skin. From ages  20-30.

Now the product benefits, on the Day Moisturiser, according to the packaging, claims to: "Help transform the appearance of skin quality. Pores should look virtually undetectable, evens skin tone & texture. Leaving skin feeling silky-soft. Moistures skin for up to 24 hours." 

I have been using this day moisturiser as part of my morning routine, for about a month now. And as soon as I started using it, people started complimenting me, on my complexion almost immediately. Which is just a winner in my book. 

I just wash my face, with my normal face wash, follow that up, with L'Oreal 3 in 1 miracle water, & then apply the moisturiser. I don't use to much, as I always find a little goes a long way. I apply the cream in a circular motion, always working up, as I don't want to pull my face down, as it's heading that way! What drew me, to these products most, was that I suffer from slight redness in the cheeks and some uneven texture. The cream itself, feels thick,  but after applying doesn't make your face feel like its coated with oil. & it has a lovely smell to it. I will defiantly re-buy the product. 

Moving on to the second product, I purchased from this range. The Magic Touch Instant Blur. The product claims to: "Enriched with Optical Blur Polymers the formula optically blurs the appearance of shine, pores and irregularities for a soft-focus finish." They recommend that you apply daily. Alone or after moisturiser. Targets pores, on nose, chin & areas that are prone to shine. It also say's it's an excellent base for make-up. I must confess, I don't use this product on a daily basis. I tend to use it as the latter. It works as a wonderful base coat, for foundation, or even if you just want, to go for a light look. And wanted to, use a little concealer and power. The tube isn't massive, so again, it's a case of less is more. I tend to apply it to cheeks, nose and chin. The texture of the cream is thick, but velvety smooth, once applied. I feel that it softens my skin texture, giving me a smoother finish overall. 

I would defiantly would recommend this Skin range, I know boots often have 3 for 2 on these ranges, and if you're looking for a new moisturiser I would defiantly recommend this one.  Also part of this range is the: Advanced correcting serum- which is next on the shopping list. Awaking eye cream & the 5 in 1 BB Cream.

Healthy Autumn Soup Recipe

Autumn Soup Recipe 

Hello guys,

Who remember's my last post about my autumn bucket list? 

well, I decided that it would be fun, to tick them off of my blog as I go. 

 One of the things you may or may not, know about me, is I like to cook & try out new low cal, recipes. As I'm trying eat healthier. And to keep an eye on the waste line. ;)

 This is a lovely filling soup recipe, great for light lunches or a quick tea if you prefer not to eat to much in the evening. This particular recipe, is for a carrot, coriander & red lentil soup. For this recipe you will need:

200g dried red lentils. (rinsed & dried.)

450g carrots chopped.

1 large onion diced.

1 vegetable stock cube.

1tsp ground coriander.

salt & peper.

1 stick of celery. (optional)

Ready in 40 minutes. Serves 4.

1) Place the onion, carrots, lentils, coriander & celery, into a large pot/pan. Add 1.1 litres of cold water & stir. 

Keep the pot/pan uncovered, and bring to the boil for 10 minutes.
Cover with a lid, reduce the heat and let it simmer for a further 25 minutes.

2) Remove the pot/pan from the heat and allow too cool.
Next, using a hand blender or food processor if you have one. Blitz until smooth. (This is a quite thick soup.) Season to you're taste, with salt & pepper, return the soup to the heat & server when pipping hot.
 Enjoy with a slice of bread of multi-grain crisp bread. 

This recipe can be frozen & re-heated at a later date, if you make any extra. 

                                

A thought for the weekend

It's the weekend! and a rather damp one at that. 

So I was doing, what I usually do, when I'm short on inspiration. Searching pinterest. . . . And I happened to come across this little gem, of a saying.

 Now that I'm older, this saying is something I defiantly strive for in my everyday life.

I know that everyone likes to have fun, meet new people and try new things. But I sometimes feel, that people can get fun & exciting confused with drama. It's easy to get caught up in it all. wasting a lot of energy, on who said what and when they said it. But if you're anything like me it can be such a drain on you're energy. When it  could be spent on doing something way more positive.   

However on the other hand, I feel people can often confuse the word calm, with boring. Because it's associated with playing it safe, & not taking risks. But I think that's not true at all. 

Choosing to have a calm and happy existence wherever, however possible, sounds like a truly amazing idea to me. I think choosing to be calm, and being able to distance yourself, from unnecessary  drama helps put other things, that happen in our day to day lives into perspective. So you can spend more time focusing on the 'good things' that are going on, instead of the negative.

And to be able to say I'm happy being this way, is the ultimate goal surely.  To me, being calm doesn't mean being boring. It means feeling comfortable and relaxed in my homemade environment. 

Autumn Bucket List

Well Howdy,

It's September already, the nights are drawing in. That can only mean one thing, autumn / fall, is already upon us. 

And frankly I couldn't be more excited. I think it's because, I feel that September always brings a fresh start. I know this is all down to the UK's education system. New school year, blah,blah. But non the less, September feels like a new start. 

Autumn is also my favourite season of the year. You can't beat the autumn sunshine on you're face. I even love the dull days. They seem to be full of rich colours & smells. Plus that means I get to break out my cool knitwear.

 That's right, I said 'cool knitwear & there's nothing you can do about it.' Comfy leggings, kick arse boots & cute bobble hats, complete with matching scarf & gloves. I couldn't ask for more.

So I thought I'd put together a little autumn bucket list, of things I should make time for this autumn. For when I have nothing to be getting on with.

Have long walks in the woods, through the leaves.

Create a mini autumn look book. (There's a lot of attractive leopard print about this season, this pleases me greatly!) 

Make S'mores with the ladies. 

Have a girlie trip to Starbucks to try out the autumn latte.

Start a good book. (Probably Dawn O'Porters latest!) 

Make an Apple pie & or Toffee Apples.

Autumn pamper day with the girls.

Make soup.

Make time for a movie day. 

Carve a pumpkin. 

Attend a fireworks display. 

Summer Essentials Hair & Make-up

Aloha Guy's! (That's my attempted at a summery hello!)

So, as it's then end of august, where did that go?

 I thought it would be good to do a little summer essentials blog post, for you. 

This blog post includes my most popular products of this summer.

Firstly skin;  I am naturally quite fair skinned all year round. I guess due to the lack of general sun around these parts. But when it comes to the summer months I like to try & look a tad sun kissed. But I'm not ashamed to admit, I'm a little afraid of fake tan. So I have been using, Dover summer glow body lotion.

Mainly on my legs & arm's. it takes upto 3 uses to see a noticeable difference. But it does work in a subtle way. Which was what I was looking for really. A couple of cons though; If not rubbed in throughly it can be a little patchy,  I always make  sure to wash my hands after application. Otherwise they can become a lot darker then the rest of you, & lastly the smell isn't amazing but it doesn't last for long. But it did what I wanted so can't complain.

The body spray I've been loving this month, is a new one from Dove. Called 'Beauty Finish' Great for sensitive skin, long lasting fragrance, and most of all, the sent reminds me of Gucci's 'Rush' perfume. A winner every time.   

In the summer, no one can say no to a bit of bronzer for that sun kissed glow, my 2 go to brozners are urban decays bronzer which has lasted me well over 3 summers. But if urban decay is a little out of you're price range, then 17's bronzer is the one for you, it's a lovely dupe & has lasted me ages.

Now onto the face; I always think less is more. However I think this saying is pretty apt during the summer months. Especially with the hot whether, I can sometimes feel like my face is melting! Even though I would say that I have combination skin, there are still days when I feel like all the foundation has slipped off my face. So I have been using number 7's tinted moisturiser, which I purchased from boots with some cheeky money off vouchers last year. Along with some of rimmels stay matt loose face powder. Or an old favourite of mine, rimmels wake me up tinted foundation. With a little added rimmel powder on top. Or failing that & I feel like my face is melting, I will use Rimmels Match Perfection concealer, in soft beige with some rimmel stay matte pressed powder.

For the eye's; I like to leave these minimal so maybe a bass coat & just mascara & just leave it at that. Saying that, I have recently discovered maybelline's 24 hour colour tattoo, cream eyeshadow pots. I have 2 shades 'permanent taupe' and 'on and on bronze' I really love the pigmentation in these eyeshadows, great for long, everyday wear and so quick and easy to apply. 'On and on bronze' is defiantly my fav out of the 2 as it has more of a shimmer where as 'permanent taupe' has a matte finish. I would defiantly like to get my hands on, other shades in this collection, and this is coming from a person, who before this, scarcely used any maybelline.    

Lips; I have been using EOS honey suckle & honeydew lip balm this summer, & not just cause it smells amazing, it also has an SPF in it as no one wants burnt lips!

Hair; got2be texture salt spray for that tasselled beach look. I love this stuff best £2.00 I ever spent. I simply wash, towel dry, spritz evenly and let nature do the rest.  & if you didn't know already, but I'm sure you do, like cold weather heat can also damage you're hair, so I always make a point of using a hair mask at least once a week. At the moment I am currently using, Avon advanced techniques 360 nourishment moroccan oil hair mask. Smells lovely & leaves my hair soft, couldn't ask for more.

 And last but by no means least; Accessories overside beach bag, flip flops are a must have for me! Along with multiple pairs of sunnies. 

What were you're summer essentials, this year? 

Road Trippin' & Giant Primarks

                         

    

Helloo guy's, 

A quick disclaimer, this post is heavily shopping based. & probably won't interest you, if unlike myself, you wouldn't list shopping in one, of you're top three hobbies. 

This weeks post is about a lil' trip to Milton Kaynes, that myself & the fella took. It was kinda business related & not just solely for shopping. I swear.... 

Since having my own wheels, since the beginning of the year. 

I've found the freedom of being able to just jump in the car & head off somewhere, is frankly amazeballs. & we have admittedly doing this a fair bit.

 There's nothing nicer then experiencing a new place / environment having a leisurely browse around town. This is what usually ends up happening. 

 While we've been taking mini trips out & about. I have developed a tiny habit, of checking out the local Primark's in the near vicinity. Honestly it is in no way intentional. I'm not so weird as to plan a trip around one particular shop.

 But I think I have been able to pin-point why this keeps happening. & it is because, the one where I live is an absolute mess. 

Everytime I venture forth into our branch, it looks like a bomb has hit it. Clothes all over the floor, nothing is arranged nicely. It's always over flowing with people, & so I'd pretty much given up.

But I've discovered that else where, the other Primarks just seem amazing. They look like 'proper' stores.

 Nicely arranged, so you can see what you're looking at. & don't have to spend half an hour checking all the sizes. So that when you get home instead of picking up a 14, you've got an 8.

 You also don't have to worry about tripping up on rogue hangers, in these nicer Primarks. The shopping experience, on the whole, is just a lot nicer. The staff are pleasant & helpful. You're not getting pushed into railings while others grab there bargains. I'm not standing in a que for 20 odd minutes. On the whole, out of the 6 odd Primarks I've visited of late, I give the MK Primark 5 stars. 

The items, pictured below all come from the Milton Keynes Primark:

Black quilted pumps UK size 5 £6.

French Bulldog PJ's Tee £3 estimated, PJ Bottoms £5 estimated. 

"Fall for love" T-shirt £5.

                          

    

30 Day Snap Catch Up Review.

Well Hello there,

How have we all been? 

Firstly I must apologise, as this post is over a month late! But I'm gonna blame technology & thats the end of that!

As you may, or may not have known, from my previous blog entries, throughout the entire month of June, (I know I make it sound like a chore) but it wasn't.  

I undertook a challenge called #30DaySnap / #GlitterSnap, on Instagram. Which also happens to be linked to my Facebook & Twitter accounts.  

The point of the challenge was to upload 1 photograph a day, of whatever you maybe upto. To document you're day activities, if you will. You could even add a caption if you wanted to, or if you felt the photograph spoke for it's self you could leave it as it was.

 Overall I really enjoyed, taking part in this challenge. 

I found it opened my eyes, & made me really think, & appreciate the general sights of my day. 

Defiantly more than I would of done, if I hadn't have been on the lookout for an interesting photo opportunity. 

I also felt this challenge helped me, to expand my photographic creativity in some area's, where possible. In the basic area's such as,composition & lighting, mostly.

I was also pleased, that I was able to use my phone camera, without the pictures looking absolutely awful.

I liked to use my phone camera as it's always with me. Also, I'd feel quite awaked lugging round a massive top of the range camera..

One of my favourite aspects of using the hashtag's #30DaySnap & #GlitterSnap on instagram. Was that it enabled you to see what everyone else was upto, who were also using the hashtag. & I will confess, I enjoy being a little bit nosey. :) 

So without further adieu, Here is my #30DaySnap Instagram wall for the month of June. Hope you enjoyed it if you took part!

Blog Lovin' 5 month update. 'Do what you love. Love what you do.'

Do what you love, love what you do.

Hey Guy's & Girl's,

This is just a little catch up / update, post really.

Since starting this blog at the begging of march. (Where has 5 months disappeared too!) & 1,549 pageview's which I never envisioned happening.

I have been trying so many, new things. Which in essence, was the reason for starting this blog, in the first place, really. To not keep putting things off & too keep trying new stuff out.

Which I think I've been doing pretty well at. (Even if I do say so myself…)  This goes from trying out new beauty products, Which feature a lot on here, at the mo. 

To recipes and eating healthier, (Most of the time.) 

Even, trying out new exercise classes. Undertaking D.I.Y's projects which is something, I know I would of defiantly put off if not for this blog. & probably stuff in-between.

These are all thing's, I would like to keep including here on my blog. & if anyone has any suggestion's, or something that they would like to see more of, please feel free too give me a shout. 

I'd just like to say, thank you for reading & hopefully enjoying my blog post's. I never envisioned enjoying writing my blog, as much as I have. I really feel like, I've found a piece of home, in this corner of the internet.   

TRESemmé 's Platinum Strength

Hey Guy's & Girls, (mostly girls)

This weeks blog post is a hair care review. You have been warned! (Ironically as I post this review, I have just finished washing my hair. I kid you not.)

So let's start at the beginning, (it's usually the best place.)

I have mid-long to length hair, I'm blonde (I have regular highlights) & have been for just over 2 years. 

My hair is  thick, but fine, and gets knotty pretty quickly!

 I am still wanting to grow my hair, so I tend to go to the hair dressers every 12 weeks for a cut & colour. 

In the meantime I've been finding my hair feeling dry and limp. (Especially at the ends. Grr!)

I usually alternate between, 2 different shampoo's & conditioner's. Paul Mitchals Strength, and Herbal Essences beautiful ends. I try my best, not to blow dry my hair, but I usually style with curling/straightening irons, always making sure I use hair protectant.

But I finally ran out of both, & thought lets give something new ago. 

I had read a couple of reviews online about TRESemmé 's platinum strength range. In the past, I have always steered clear of TRESemmé as I had been advised against using it. But thought why not give it another go.

The range is made up, of 5 products. The shampoo, conditioner, a deep conditioning treatment, a leave in conditioner & an instant rescue shot. Out of the 5 products, I purchased 4. The shampoo, conditioner, an instant rescue shot(which took me ages too find!) and the stay soft leave in conditioner. The range claims to; "Visibly repairs up to 2 years of damage in just 5 uses* giving you stronger, more manageable and beautifully healthy hair. The Platinum Strength’s Renewing Complex not only reinforces hair’s naturally protective layer but also helps restore your hair, protecting it against future damage." 

I will say now, I wasn't expecting any miracles. But I was pleasantly surprised. I'd  I noticed a difference by the 6th wash. By using just the shampoo, conditioner and the leave-in conditioner. My hair was feeling a lot smoother, easier to manage & feeling a little bit stronger. But the instant shot, is  something else! Out of the 1 tiny tube is enough for 2 treatments, even with medium, to long hair. I used it after shampooing, for the recommended time, & I could really feel the difference. It made my hair feel so much softer almost instantly. I will defiantly be repurchasing, these little tubes of magic, from time to time. All in all, I have been really impressed with this range and would defiantly recommend it, too people like myself who have their hair coloured regularly. I wouldn't say it repairs unto 2 years worth of damage cause that is frankly impossible. But it did make my hair feel & look better. & for a drugstore brand it is defiantly worth the money. So if you feel your locks need some loving' this range could be for you.