...Bloglovin?

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

So, quick post here. Super quick!

I've been wondering what this whole Bloglovin thing has been about, seen it floating around on all the blogs I catch up on. 

Yeah, loving it. ha!

Everything's in one place! I decided to join, so feel free to follow! -tumbleweeds-

On another note, slowly working on the posts I've been meaning to do, yet I keep amassing more, without completing the ones I've started. This is getting ridiculous!

xx

The Wedding Guest

Firstly, apologies for being so absent! The past couple of months have flown in and quite frankly I have been rather busy, yet not accomplished much at all! I can't stand it when that happens, and I've just realised how much I've neglected this little corner. I have several posts I've been meaning to get round to doing, I intend on banging them out in the next couple of weeks but for now, I thought I'd share my plans for this coming week.

As the title may suggest, I have a wedding to attend this week, and have subsequently decided to take three days freedom from work and spend some quality time with the boy. As we'll be travelling back home to London this week, something I do nearly every month it seems, I thought I'd share my tips on travelling and what I like to make sure I have with me, etc. Rushing from work to the train station, for a near 3 hour round trip, with ungodly amounts of luggage, can be stress inducing for some; it used to be for me but I'm now a train passenger pro -wink-

First and foremost, however,  I also wanted to share my choice of outfit with you. I think it can be quite tricky to decide wedding guest attire especially with our unpredictable weather and so I thought I'd show you what I've chosen. I've been to a fair amount of weddings by this point, with yet another on the horizon for next year, so I've got my wedding guest act down to a T.

First up, I've decided to go with a dress. It's a classic wedding guest piece which also keeps things simple and comfortable. The one I've chosen is from Frock and Frill,  originally priced at £125 I believe, I first saw it on Asos (which has a fantastic 'wedding guest' selection). However, I scoped out their own website and noticed it had been put into the sale for £50, needles to say, I ordered it from there instead. Its a simple, body skimming slip style which I know works for me. Which is one of the  main reasons why I chose it, I want to feel comfortable and confident in what I'm wearing; don't feel pressured to wear something which you think everyone else will be wowed by. If you feel like crap in it, you're going to look like crap in it. 
It's a perfect nude pink, flattering my skin tone which, due to the recent sunshine, is lightly tanned. The sequinned embellishment is beautiful, but subtle, being made up mainly of beading rather than sequins, it's not tacky or OTT.

I've paired it with a simple black blazer, the one I've actually bought is the Asos black crepe blazer (not pictured) but I used a similar one above as I couldn't find a decent photo. It's really light and soft, even though -fingers crossed- it will be warm and sunny on the day, it's perfect to throw on when the temperature starts to drop.

I'll be wearing low platform sandals on the day, as to be quite honest, large heels, stilettos etc. are just not practical. They look great for the first 15 minutes of your day...then your feet start to wane. As does your happiness. I never substitute comfort for style. Ever. These sandals were bought from Asos a couple of years ago now, they are called the Asos High Five platform, and they are super cute.  They look slightly clumpy in the photo, however once they are on your feet they look great. The little bow is a dainty touch and the heels themselves are super sturdy and comfortable. My feet are not going to aggravate me during the day!

I'll be using my Vivienne Westwood Chancery handbag for the day, I usually use my DKNY handbag, as I like to carry a lot of -crap- around with me, however during an event like a wedding, a large bag is a no go. Viv will hold all my essentials, look cute and stop me taking any unnecessary items along. 

Due to the amount of embellishment on the dress, jewellery is not really needed to add anything to the outfit. The only thing I will be wearing will be my watch.  I always wear a watch these days, I feel odd without one on, I always need to know what the time is and its far easier to glance at a watch than it is retrieving your phone from the endless pit which is your handbag.

The finishing touch of course, is perfume. I'll be wearing Miss Dior. I like to bring this out for special events, it's expensive and I can't afford to smell like Dior everyday!

There you have it, the wedding guest outfit. The only items I bought specifically for this are the dress and the blazer, only because my only other -fancy- dress hasn't yet been dry cleaned from the previous wedding! On a side note, the blazer was such a great buy! It literally goes with everything, I am in love. I think it was £35 from Asos? around that mark. I believe it will see me through every month! ha!

Make up wise, I'm looking to go for something light and pretty. I don't want anything too dramatic or which is going to slide around my face after 2 hours. I'm thinking liner and a nude lip? As for my hair, that -crap- is going up! and out of the way! The only thing I can't stand more than my hair, is when it's in my face...



What I'll be taking on the trip

I hate travelling. Literally cannot stand it. Unfortunately it's a necessary evil on this earth and my hatred towards it has allowed me to become quite savvy and brutal. Here's what I'll be taking and how it's gonna go down.

Clothes, Uh where to begin, this is 3 days worth,  therefore I pick 3 outfits and stick to it. Simple. Don't overload yourself with clothes, it's unnecessary. Us girls, we say we need choices. But no, we don't. We need the outfits we planned, packed and eventually wore.  Stop telling yourself you might just hate that outfit you planned for Tuesday when Tuesday rolls around. You're just saying that. Another thing to note here is that outfits can incorporate the same items, so you get a different look but keep the item count to a minimum. For example, black jeans and jumper for the day, black jeans and strappy cami for the evening.  Same jacket worn for both. Done.

I'll be taking my black river island Molly jeggings, oversized check shirt, vest top, t-shirt and black Roll neck. I'll be travelling in a skater skirt and a plain vest top, the skirt can be re-worn. I'll also have my wedding outfit of course, but thats an extra this time. However, the blazer will also be worn with my other outfits -wink-
Of course, there's also the matter of undies, ha. Well thats simple, take as many pairs as you need, I'll be taking 6 pairs of pants,  a clean pair for each night and day. They literally take up no room so I don't think underwear can even count! I tend to shove them in a zip pocket. I'll also pack a pair of tights and a pair of cute socks. 
As i'm staying at my mothers house whilst we're there, I don't need to take any sleep wear with me, I left a couple of pieces there quite a while ago, so I don't have to worry about packing any! If I was staying elsewhere I'd pack an oversized t-shirt to sleep in, they don't take up much room but are super comfy.  And thats about it clothes wise. Typed up it appears to be quite a lot, but in reality it really isn't. Its compact and planned.  

Accessory and shoe wise, there isn't much going on, I'll be wearing my vans to travel in, and for everyday except the wedding, where I'll be wearing platforms. Sneakily, I chose a pair which I conveniently left at my mothers -sly-  Watch, bag and sunglasses are the same for the wedding, I don't find I need much else! I'm quite a simple dresser! 

Now, toiletries. This is probably where I can struggle! however, Im strict with myself and I've whittled my list down to the bare basics. 

I like to use travel bottles for the bigger items. I literally can't get enough of anything in -mini- form. They are just too cute! and, of course, they're practical. Means you aren't taking several full sized bottles along with you! I bought a travel bottle set from Primark, with 2 same sized bottles, a smaller bottle and a pot. They also came with sweet little labels to stick on them, i was going to nick some sticky labels from work! I've filled the two larger bottles with shampoo and conditioner 
(I refuse to buy travel sizes of these when I own huge bottles which I can decant) the smaller bottle with toner (I love that stuff) and the pot has been stuffed with my current favourite face mask. Cute little portions!
I've also packed a bottle of soap and glory's mini clean on me shower gel, a razor and a mini body shop scrub. Face wise, I've got a stack of large cotton pads, a flannel, Vitamin E oil, Avene's Cleanance K cream, Reve de Miel lip balm and a Vitamin E hot cloth cleanser. I've also got my trusty tangle teezer along for the ride. 

Phew, sounds like a lot, really isn't! it's all been stuffed comfortably in my wash bag and I'm set for the 4 days I'l be away from home. 

And last but not least, Make up! ha. I use a small plastic case and in it is the bare essentials. Currently i'm using Bourjois' Happy Light Primer,  Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation,  Urban decay's Naked Basics palette, Sleek Face form palette and sleek's eyebrow kit. Lastly, Liner and mascara. I've also packed two Mac Lipsticks and a Nars Multiple. Of course, theres a couple of makeup brushes slipped in there (MAC stroke of midnight) and a beauty blender. 

seems like a lot, again, really isn't!  All packed in neatly and everything fits in the captains case! As well as the boys stuff
 -wink- 


Handbag Essentials and travelling tips

When Travelling, I have to have a few items with me, literally to make me feel better. Even though I'm used to doing it constantly and have no problems, I still think it's a ball ache.

I always have these in my hand bag and I find they always come in handy!

P.S I received the Dior lip balm for my birthday, It goes everywhere with me! 


When you lay it all out like this, it seems an awful lot. I hate to think what it is normally! 


I always book my tickets online and print them off at the station, I have an oyster card but literally only use it if I have to. I prefer to book my tickets from first station to last station, taking care of any changes in between. It's common knowledge to check the stations/ trains/service etc. before you embark on your journey, however so many people just don't bother. They're the ones left hanging around for 45 minutes getting angry.
 I always arrive 5 minutes before the train is expected to depart, I want a decent seat and to not be sweating before I even get on it! And I also tend to take a seat in the same carriage as a toilet, but not near it. It's such a ball ache if you've drank too much of your liquid provisions and have to go on a mission for a toilet. I use that term loosely as we all know what they're like -grim- 
Talking of toilets, always have change. Literally everywhere in London (at least) you have to pay to empty your bladder...


Lastly, I always always always, send a text or a quick call, to whoever I'm meeting/staying with etc. Just to let them know I'm on my way/ have arrived. If they haven't heard from me, they know something's gone wrong. Morbid yes, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. 

Also, I thought I might just point out I'm only talking about local travelling etc. No planes here, obviously, there's a lot more which goes into -that- type of travel!

Phew. I think this was quite a large post, maybe thats because Its been such a while since I have done any! 

Are there any items you refuse to travel without? Or tips you find useful?

Birthday Gifts for Cute Girls

As it is my 21st birthday next month, I thought I'd share a few gift ideas for girls with a similar affection for all that is cute and maybe drop a few hints along the way -cheeky-

I think there is something here to suit most girls, however they are definitely tailored towards what I would love to be receiving on my birthday. I'l be happy with whatever really, its the thought that counts as they say and really, it's not the important thing. Having a great birthday should depend on what you do with it and who you do it with, not on what you get! Obviously though, I would be like a cat that got the cream with this wish list, though its not going to happen as it is ridic. expensive if you were to add it up... hah! 

Never the less, I do think all girls should get a bit of Tiffany from the parents on their 21st...it's only right mumma! 

Heres my -seriously wishing- wish list for this year! 

Perfume

Okay, pretty much all girls love receiving a bottle or two of perfume on special occasions. It's not really something we are going to go and splurge on for ourselves. Honestly, a girl can never have enough perfume, we try to make them last as long as possible but it needs re-stocking at least on birthdays! (and Christmas...) 
Well this is the case for myself at least, I go through it like its going out of fashion and it's becoming a slight problem. Currently I have Miss Dior and Hugo Boss Orange on rotation...they are both becoming dangerously low. These are my last two bottles of perfume, and they only came at Christmas...clearly this is going to be a problem!

Prada Candy L'Eau - Prada

Ah, it's heart note is Sweet Pea and one of it's base notes is caramel. Need I say more? 
This is lighter, fresher, floral reinterpretation of Prada Candy, (which I absolutely love and is of course all gone), which I have been lusting after since its release. It smells like 'pretty' if pretty had a smell, it is just lovely and so perfect for the spring weather. Plus, that bottle? Adorable yet simple. I need this on my shelf.

Love, Chloé - Chloé

Chloe fragrances are wonderful, they are just the epitome of the modern woman. Clean, fresh and delicate yet definitely noticeable. This has to be my favourite of their scents. The original Chloé is a classic in my book, but for something a little more delicate I recommend Love, Chloé. Also, another dressing table worthy bottle, elegant and understated, much like myself -hilarious but true, wink-

Jasmine Noir - Bvlgari

My mumma bought be a Bvlgari perfume years ago now, and I hadn't opened until months after receiving it, then wondered why I'd left it so long! absolutely gorgeous. I believe it was BLV II. Regardless, I really enjoy Bvlgari scents and this one is no exception. Perfect for date night, fairly light but warm and woody, not to heady or overpowing at all. It's beautiful. 

Coco Mademoiselle - Chanel

Uhhhhh this perfume! a pure favourite of mine, however I have never owned a bottle! I always have to test it in a department store though, just to make sure it's still as lovely as ever! ha. I always remember my mumma having Chanel N˚5 on her dresser and I would always go sniff the bottle, however as much as I like Chanels classic scents, they have always felt far to mature for myself. For instance N˚5 smelt nice on, it worked well with my skin, however it just didn't feel right. Like when you go into an uber fancy restaurant and you feel about 12 again and you should actually be in Mcdonalds? Yeah.  Coco Mademoiselle however, suits me perfectly. Well, I think it does! Either way, it's a perfect scent for a girl turning 21! sort of, leading the way into adulthood, because honestly I don't think I'm quite there yet!

Cosmetics

Ah makeup, a great gift for us girls. Providing we're the type who uses it and you choose the appropriate gift, otherwise you could have some uncomfortable -do you know me at all?- silences. Clearly, I am not one of those girls who is going to be perplexed at the site of makeup in my gift bag! 

If you want to choose a cosmetic product as a gift, it's a pretty safe bet that palettes and lip products are the best choice. I mean, unless they really, really beg and make it known that they are desperate for it for their birthday, buying ya girl foundation just isn't going to go down to cute...

Lips

Dior Creme De Rose Smoothing, Plumping Lip Balm

Okay, I'm just gonna jump right in and say it, this is a lip balm...for 20 quid. Yes I know, ridiculous but that's exactly why, if your girl, ahem -hint-, is a lip kinda girl; she would totally appreciate this as a gift! I mean, even I'm not going to spend £20 on a lip balm, I've come close but luckily every time I've entertained the thought, it's conveniently out of stock. Honestly though, it just looks like it would be so lovely for your mouth! Soft and plumped with the scent of rose? yes. In a luxe, adorable white pot? yes. A little Dior in your handbag? yes. Really I'm not seeing the issue here....

Rouge Volupté Lipstick in Lingerie Pink - Yves Saint Laurent

Now, these have been raved about endlessly and for good reason. Every Girl needs a little luxury in their lives and this lipstick can provide just that. They are absolutely beautiful to look at but also, the quality is fantastic. Creamy, rich and fantastic colour payoff, they are definitely the perfect choice for a lipstick lover. Obviously, I chose Lingerie Pink as that is the shade I keep coming back to... -wink-

MAC Glaze Lipstick in Hue - MAC Cosmetics

MAC is a pretty standard brand to go with now, their lipsticks do live up to the hype and they do make a girls makeup collection feel a little more...adult, i suppose that is the word? It's not really sophisticated on the level of having a Tom Ford or a Chanel in there, but it is a step up from Barry M! I am not a make up snob i swear! It's just, buying them a a gift, make them feel special :) For example, for christmas I bought my 14 year old sister the MAC Stroke of Midnight Cheek and Lip Bag in Pink. She Loved it! Told me it made her make up storage look 'so superior'! bless her. I've chosen Hue as it's one I've been meaning to purchase for a while now, it's marketed as a soft pale pink but comes off more as a pinky nude, more universally flattering than what it appears. Failing that, créme cup is a great starting shade for anyone. As an afterthought to this post, Nars is also a great brand to go with when it comes to lips with a similar pricing band to MAC. Both provide colour payoff and that little 'luxe' feeling alike.

Lancôme Gloss in Love Volumiser - Lancôme

This is the prettiest little lip gloss I've seen in a while, it's whole appeal is literally just that, it's part of their 'French Ballerine'  collection...the name alone. Enough said really. 

Palettes

I love a good palette. Apart form the fact they're practical and great for travelling, they just look so nice in your make up collection! Also, most brands these days use the tactic of including limited edition shades in them, justifying the price tag eh? -cute-

I've owned a fair few palettes in my time and I have to say, Nars is one of my all time favourite brands for them, however there are some great choices out there. I've chosen two which I do not currently own -wish- but have been lusting over since the release. They've been pretty much hyped all over the place so it's unlikely you haven't heard of them. 

At First Sight Eye & Cheek Palette - NARS Cosmetics

uhhhhhhhhhh -le sigh. So pretty, so useful. Nars has been one of my favourite brands for a good few years now, I think what initially drew me in was the packaging, clean, simple and black.  However, the quality of their products and the beautiful colours? worth every penny, though I must say I haven't used any of their skin care products as they haven't appealed to me.  I love it when they release a palette which is both face and eye, it's like a full on face in one little compact. This one in particular I know would be a firm favourite, containing two face products, Deep Throat blush, a personal favourite of mine and Laguna bronzer, something which i've yet to use but has been talked about since forever; a cult favourite. It also contains four eyeshadows in complimentary shades, All about Eve, Nouveau Monde, Bellissima and Cordura (II)

it is simply gorgeous and the shades are all so wearable, I know I would definitely get a lot of use from this palette. Aside from the great shades, as I've mentioned before, the quality of NARS's products is fantastic, I have had a few palettes and gift sets from them which have all been used endlessly. I think my favourite though has been the NARS Adult Content Blush Palette. I use this pretty much every single day, Miss Liberty was included as the highlighting blush in it and it's safe to say thats it's been wiped out! Absolutely gorgeous set, I've been tempted to buy the Foreplay edition but I can't say that one has appealed to me that much. The only problem I have with palettes like this is I don't want to use them too often, especially if they are limited edition, but I do anyways -no fear-

Naked 3 - Urban Decay

This palette. Serious hype. As with the previous two sets, Naked (1) & 2, this one has been just as coveted by the beauty world. I use my Naked 2 palette every day I wear make up, without fail. It is fantastic, for me anyways. I prefer eye shadow shades in this colour range, basically shades of beige and grey. However, these sets are so much more than that, with a full colour range of natural, wearable yet beautiful shades in several finishes; you can create basically any look bar pop art. They are fantastic to have in your arsenal. As with most brands these days, they do always include those limited edition shades, so I always feel compelled to invest! I plan on purchasing Naked (1) at some point in the near future, as I do really want it, but I'd rather receive Naked 3 first! Rose gold colour range? too pretty. Basically, I just need the whole set and if your girl is a makeup junkie to, so does she! 

Bath Goodies

I love toiletries and bath goodies more than most. Soap & Glory is always a safe bet, they are adorably packaged, smell amazing and make you feel super cute and fit. Also they are seriously affordable, they always have several different sets available and are always featured in Boots' 3 for 2 offer. 
Lush is another fail safe option, amazing bath treats, pretty as a picture packaging and pre-made sets to choose from...can't go wrong really.

Clothes, Shoes & Accessories

So, this little lot. Well I must say I'm not expecting to receive any of these, I mean they are fairly expensive...but it's nice dreaming of expensive birthday gifts! I think this is more of a personal -buy for myself eventually- list, but if you are going to splurge, I think there are a few things here to suit all different types of us girls. Okay, maybe those more like myself! I can't help it! 

Fluffy Crop Jumper - Topshop

Okay, so this isn't that expensive at all, I think it might actually be in the sale now? Anywho, these jumpers are really sweet, especially in the pastel, spring-y type colours. I've been meaning to buy one for a while now but just haven't bothered. I suppose that means I don't want it that much! but it's a nice little gift for a jumper lover like me, with the unpredictable weather here in Britain, you can't really go wrong with a little fashion number like this. However, I do always question the quality of Topshop's range. I mean, sometimes you'l be paying around the 40 quid mark for something that looks -and feels- like you could get it in primark...usually you can. I tend to buy my clothes elsewhere but sometimes, you can't beat a bit of Topshop. 

Classic short boot in Chesnut - Ugg Australia

Mhm, Uggs. I've been meaning to invest in a pair for quite some time now, 2 years maybe? Yeah, Ugg is quit a fitting name for these boots, they ain't the best looking if we're reaaaaaally honest with ourselves. But they are so soft, and warm especially in the winter and they do look kinda cute with some jeans. I love and hate them equally, although what I hate more is the fake Ugg, you know, the imitation ones in stores like River Island, New look etc. Those leaning ones. Yeah, those. Don't buy those. Save and invest if you really want them, or you know boys, treat her! I really do want a pair, especially since we bought my mumma a pair for christmas, v. unfair! 

Typo Orb Embossed Purse 2800 Black - Vivienne Westwood

Ahhh Viv. Me and Viv have been having a love fair since the beginning of time. I just love her products, beautifully crafted and elegant with that touch of an edge. Pure love. I recently bought the Chancery heart bag in black, yet I still have not invested in any sort of purse, I have been usig the inside pockets of whatever bag I'm using for two years now. I'm over it, I want need a purse. And this is my chosen piece. I've used an image of the Saffiano purse in the set above, they're both gorgeous to me. But I may have just noticed the Typo Orb Embossed on Viv's website. That lilac interior? Yeah, I'm sold, done, I'm in love -winking uncontrollably- 

But, reigning it in from myself here, purses are great as gifts, especially for those who aren't going to purchase one for themselves, every woman should have a fancy purse, it just feels right. There are several safe go to brands out there if you're going designer, think DKNY, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs etc. However, a -fancy- purse doesn't have to be designer, just beautiful! 

Paisly print scarf - River Island

This scarf is so pretty, I don't know what it is about River Island but they always seem to have a great selection of scarves!?  This one is perfect for spring, it could brighten up pretty much any outfit. I love it. It's a cute little gift that any girl who regulars shops like RI, Topshop etc. will love. I can see it looking cute with that purse right now... mhm.

Manhattan Sunglasses in Tortioseshell with Green Lens - Oliver Goldsmith

Okay, I'm prefacing this with -I definitely do not expect any one to gift me with these!- 

This is seriously one of those 'I really want these and I should save and purchase them for myself' items. Which I'm probably going to do, I mean if I received these and these alone, I'd be seriously loving life. They are the sunglasses I've wanted since I was about 16! They are a complete classic and absolutely beautiful. I love them, I have had dreams about these sunglasses...-le sigh-

I honestly believe they could make any outfit, no matter how awful, work.

they will be mine, probably as my birthday gift to me for making it to 21...if I can justify it... or do that thing where I just ignore the price and pretend it doesn't matter! 

You may recognise them as being the sunglasses Audrey Hepburn wears as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's. Made that mistake at 16 didn't I, becoming obsessed with that film and in turn those sunglasses...5 years people. F-I-V-E

If your girl loves accessories, especially sunglasses I guess, these are a timeless classic, they beat out any other designer sunglasses in my opinion. As long as you don't wear them actively trying to imitate that Hepburn look, they won't come off as tacky. I mean, there's only one Audrey Hepburn, besides we should really be trying to follow her wonderful values etc. But the sunglasses, they are just too much. It's pretty obvious I am on that materialistic side of the border, I've accepted this! -no shame, in love, there will be no regrets-

Cute Stuff

It would not be my birthday without something cute or Disney involved! Mainly Disney.It wouldn't even be like a birthday! Plushies and films are the way to go.  I also have a thing for candles, usually those ones from Yankee Candle. They are really inexpensive as far as popular candle brands go and they come in the most amazing scents. Also, mason jar style? too cute for words. Currently I'm hoping to get my hands on garden sweet pea and midsummers night, they smell perfect. Lastly, if your girl is into photography, a Diana camera is a perfect addition to her collection. Apart from the fact that they come in some beautiful styles, this completely ostentatious gold version being my favourite, they produce the dreamiest, summer-esqe, beautiful photos and are really great to get creative with. I currently own a Diana lens as an addition to my D-SLR, so a film option would be lovely to play around with. 



So there you have it, a dreamy, mostly ridiculous Birthday Wishlist! Believe me, there are so many more things I've been mentally adding to this in my head - shout out to my new obsession, Nike Free Runs -  its not going to happen! But hey, I've acknowledged my problem at least! 

Is there anything -completely materialistic- you're dreaming for?

Cute Buys #1

Between my January and February pay check I've added some more cuteness to my ever growing collection of cute & maybe one huge piece of cute but more about that later.

First up, I am in love with wrap-a-round towels and the Primark ones are actually adorable. Mamma B, Grants mother, bought me one for christmas last year and I have used it non stop since. They are just so easy to wrap on when you get out the shower, super soft and fluffy. I also find they help me dry off much quicker than normal towels and they also dry out rather quickly once used. Also, they just look adorable on and no need to worry about losing your towel when its got straps!  I bought this one a couple of weeks ago since I had started swimming, so I could have one each week that didn't smell like chlorine. The cute little heart pockets just get me, I can't go back to normal towels again. They're about £7 in Primark and have various designs so theres some practical cuteness for everyone's taste.

Argh, bath goodies, it's honestly a problem of mine. Soap & Glory is probably my favourite brand for    the bath. I find they're pretty inexpensive to buy, I always take advantage of the 3 for 2 offer at boots and considering how much you get for your money, I think it's an affordable brand. They last me a good few months when I bring home a lil haul like this, usually 6-8 products and I won't have to buy anymore for a while. 

This phone case is the sweetest little accessory. I was using a plain gold case, but I seemed to be affecting my signal most of the time, so recently I've had a naked iphone, not great if you're me! I'd seen the teddy bear versions of this case, by Moschino, in Choice a few months ago and thought they were lovely, but I'm really not into spending £50 plus on a phone case, as if! So spying these fake versions on ebay for less than a tenner? loving life really. I chose the grey rabbit as it does just look too cute for words, fairly bulky though, which is weird going from a totally naked one. Makes it easy to find in my bag though!

Last up, a little Topshop spree. Well, I'm an avid tea drinker and so mugs are something that always catch my eye. A few months back I accidentally, ahem, destroyed my favourite mug, a Disney classics Pocahontas one which Grant had bought me for christmas one year. Oh, it was so pretty and i absolutely smashed it to smithereens. I was not impressed with myself, le sigh! However, He replaced it, bless him, with another Disney mug, the sweetest pink and white pinstripe with Marie from the Aristocats. Alas, however cute that mug is, it's huge; so when I spotted this My Little Pony one on Topshop's website, I had to buy it. Too cute. I also picked up some boy pants and socks, so comfy. Bows and moomin print? definitely qualifies for a feature in the cute buys post. 

Now, onto the 'huge piece of cute'

I might of went ahead and bought the Vivienne Westwood Chancery Heart bag...oops.

Meet my new baby. I know these have been around for quite some time now, and I have lusted after it ever since. However, for the longest time now they haven't been available to purchase, not sure if thats to do with how they decide on which season they go into or?? I really don't know, all I do know is that I was on Choice's website last week and finally, finally they're back!? Yes, it went into the basket immediately. I have no shame. My justification has two parts, 1: My current baby, Donna (DKNY bag) is starting to show signs of wear and tear, she needs a rest in the dust bag like now! 2: What if this one sells out again and doesn't come back for another year or however long i've been waiting!? Cant take the risk.

Whenever things like this happen, I have a few hours of instant regret. Then I'm over it. I know my savings aren't looking too hot right now but it was an investment...in happiness maybe but still. 

I may of also gotten my septum pierced, after years of debating/wanting, possibly to distract me from the above? Who knows, same story though, instant regret then a wave of sublime happiness. There's probably a word for people like me...

Do you have any purchases you worry about after payment has gone through? Do you have any piercings you debated over for years?

xxx

Fresh, Smooth & Green

Baby Spinach, Lemons & Limes, Blueberries

For about the past two weeks now I have been attempting to incorporate at least one green smoothie a day, usually during the morning hours, into my diet. I say attempting as I haven't yet locked my routine down, I'm a bit hit and miss at the moment as I generally take a while to settle into something. 

Despite this, I am really enjoying green smoothies and feeling the benefits of them, they're supposed to have quite a few, especially if you include super foods into the mix. I have a few recipes which I enjoy and find extremely easy to create, so for now they are my go-to combinations. I'm looking to increase them though and hopefully reap the benefits of incorporating other ingredients into the mix. 

The combination featured in this post is one I tried for the first time this week, but it's already a firm favourite. It's so zesty and fresh, however not actually green in colour! 

Here's the recipe

Fresh ingredients:

2-3 cups of Baby Spinach                          (I keep mine frozen in order to make my smoothie chilled)

1    cup Filtered Water                             (I do not eat/drink milk or yoghurt)

2    cups of Orange & Grapefruit chunks    (I use both fresh and canned in juice)

1    cup Blueberries                                  (Frozen)

The juice of 1 whole Lemon & 1 Lime

Extras:

1-2tsps Maca Powder

1-2tsps Chia, Flax, Goji Berry mix

1-2tsps Wheatgrass Powder

I take the frozen spinach, I wait until i've prepared everything else before I bring out any frozen produce as I don't want it to wilt, and add it along with a cup of water to my blender. I usually use the pulp action first for a few seconds, before switching to blend for about 30 seconds. 

I find it easier to achieve a smoother liquid by blending the water and green base first. I'll then add my fresh ingredients, in this case it's orange and grapefruit segments with frozen blueberries. I'll also add the powders and the juice from the lemon and lime at this stage, I don't wan't to be blending for too long as it will lose its freshness and affect the overall taste. 

I'll blend for about 60 secs max from this stage, at times I have had to blend longer because of the ingredients i was using and how they were thrown in, always a learning curve! 

I pour mine straight into a bottle and put it into the fridge, I tend to take mine to work with me to have for breakfast. At the moment I am simply using a large fresh juice bottle however I'm shopping around for a decent glass container for them. I'll get about 2 large servings out of mine, depending on the water content of the fruit used and how much filtered water i add, lasting me in the fridge for two days. 

Currently, i like to drink mine out of my Large Disney Tumbler, sorry Tink! but I think I may have found a suitable replacement, a glass mason jar with a built in straw! Very cute! 

Of course, even though the name suggests they will be green, it truly depends on what ingredients you include, in this case the blueberries won! However unappetising it looks, i can assure you it is so refreshing and tasty! 

Smoothie, Super Food Powders, Grapefruit & Orange Segments in Juice.

At the moment I am only using baby and adult spinach in them, they're easy to incorporate and I love spinach, but this is something i'm looking to expand upon. I don't want my body to become too used to the same greens, as they are the whole point of the smoothie, knowing I'm downing a good amount of my daily nutrients is great but it needs to be varied. Why deprive myself of other great greens and their benefits? It just takes some time finding out what ingredients work well together and what I like.  As I mentioned earlier, I don't drink milk or eat yoghurt as I cannot stand them, the thought of drinking milk actually turns my stomach but I will be trying to vary my liquid base as well.

I thought i might also include a couple of pointers about the 'Super Foods' I've included.

Maca Root/Powder

vitamins B, C, and E 

calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium and amino acids

Wheatgrass 

Antioxidant vitamins A, C, E

Vitamin B6  

Zinc, magnesium, iron

Goji Berries

Powerful Antioxidant

Vitamin A

Vitamin C

21 trace minerals including iron, calcium, zinc, selenium

Chia/Flax Seed

Omega 3 Fatty acids

Fibre

Antioxidants

They're basically to help aid in increasing my daily nutrient intake and provide powerful antioxidant benefits and improve my body both physically and mentally, for example improvements in my mood, energy levels, skin health and immune system.

I aim to include a few more 'Super foods' into my smoothies, however it is important to note that it's best to start off with small doses, to see how your body reacts to them and build tolerance, especially with roots such as maca, to avoid any side affects. 

As for the whole preparation aspect and fitting it into my lifestyle at the moment, it's not too bad, I just have to make the time to do it, usually it's straight after we have cleaned up dinner.  It only takes about 15 minutes, including cleaning up, depending on what prep i have to do on the ingredients. This isn't bad at all, it's just a case of making sure I don't let other things get in the way. 

Have you tried green smoothies before? 

Bambi's Scent

One of my all time favourite scents is in fact a linen spray, Disney stores 'Wonder'.

'Wonder' Linen Spray, Disney Store UK

I find this spray nothing short of delicious and i use it liberally on just about everything. Bed sheets, clothes, teddies and any sort of scarf. I honestly love it and for the £8 price tag,  I can justify the constant spritzing.

The official description of it portrays it as 'A delicate scent of lemon sugar, apple blossoms and marshmallow clouds' and bills it as the 'perfect environmental scent for a baby's room'. Well, obviously I am no baby, however if I was, I'd want my room to smell like this. 

'Wonder' smells like blend of fresh cotton sheets and the lightest hint of pear drops. It's subtle yet makes a massive difference to how comforting something is. Whether thats my bed sheets or my cardigan. I really do love it and more so love the fact that it isn't a high end product, it is just a linen spray from the Disney store. It lingers for a fair amount of time as well, my bed sheets will still smell of it a couple of days after a liberal spraying which to me, feels like it's helping to keep them fresher. They are washed every week so it's not used for that purpose but its a little bonus I guess. 

Apart from the scent I also love that it is themed with the character Bambi, it really is very sweet. I may be slightly biased on this front as Bambi is my favourite Disney character, yet as it is part of their Bambi & Thumper themed baby range, it was not going to be any other character! It looks adorable on my shelf, even the box is cute, adorned inside with delicate Bambi's.

Whenever i go to the Disney Store I always manage to pick up a bottle or two, as I really don't want to be without it. Failing that, its available to order online so I have no worries, unless they were to discontinue. I would be slightly devastated! 

Recently, I also purchased a pair of Bambi printed pyjamas, there's a theme here don't you know, from Asda of all places. 

Bambi print thermal's, George at Asda, 'Wonder' Linen spray, Disney Store UK

Now, I don't tend to buy much from Asda at all and as there isn't one close to where I live, it's a rare occasion that I even go in there. However, after our Sunday morning swim last week, Grant's mother and I decided to go grab some ingredients quickly before we headed home, being too lazy to bother driving over to Morrisons. We walked down every aisle as the check outs weren't yet open and in the clothing section i spied the cutest pj's. I am a sucker for Disney and decided that I 'HAD TO HAVE THEM'. I am so glad that my self control for cute things is virtually non existent.  I am wearing them right now and they are so soft. Practical to, considering they are, ahem, thermals. Obviously my reasoning behind needing them, these forever cold nights and all. 

Of course, I have already sprayed them with a healthy amount of 'Wonder'

They don't appear to be available to buy from the Asda website (slightly peeved about this as I want to buy another pair) however you may still be able to purchase them in store if you like the look of them. I think they were about £12 but hey, it's Asda, aren't going to be too expensive.

Do you have a favourite linen spray? Are you a Disney fan?

An Anniversary Gift

As it is our anniversary this week, my boyfriend, Grant, bought me a little gift. He knows how crazy I am about baths and bath products so he gifted me with a little package from Lush and i absolutely love it. I've yet to use any of the products as I would like to do a couple of reviews on them in the coming weeks, so for now I'll just show you what came in the post on Friday. 

Lush Bunty Pink Gift Box, Sex bomb Bath Bomb, Sunnyside Bubble Bar, Space Girl Bath Bomb

So here we have a Lush Pre-Packed Gift box and 3 little extras to go into my bath product stash, which is must admit is kept from overflowing into our bedroom by being stuffed into a wooden trunk.

Considering it's our 3 year anniversary some may think that this is a little bit, dare i say it, stingy, on the whole 'gift' front, but I think it's terribly sweet of him and is in fact the perfect gift. I love baths and he has taken in the fact that I've been wanting to try some Lush bath products for the longest time, having just been too lazy to order them for myself. Besides, we're not huge on the whole presents idea as it is, we give each other little things now and again and of course, Christmas and birthdays. However what has always meant more than any material object is how we treat each other. I would much rather not be taken for granted and treated like a mug than be lavished with any amount of gifts. So to me, this is lovely and so appreciated. 

 

Okay, so with moral stories out of the way, let's see what we have here!

As I explained, I have been wanting to try some Lush bath products for a good while now, I have had in the past their Snow Fairy shower gel, which i absolutely adored, glittery and smelt of sweets? definitely a favourite. However as it's one of their seasonal limited products, I have literally only picked it up twice. I'm far to lazy to 'stock up' as it were, in fact i believe the first bottle i owned of that sweet, sweet liquid was given to me as part of my christmas gift; from my boyfriend of course. 

Other than Snow Fairy, i also have a bottle of the Silky Underwear Dusting Powder sitting atop my shelf. I loved it so much after I picked it up i vowed to buy both of the other versions, Vanilla Puff and Lustre. You can tell how creepy I become over bath and body products, when I use words like 'vowed' to describe them! However that has yet to happen. So really, this little gift pack is a real treat and i cannot wait to have my very first Lush Bath.

First up is the Pink Bunty Box, packaged in the most adorable pink and yellow wrapping, very cute. I was actually quite hesitant to unwrap this, as it just looked so nice (stuffed) into my bath trunk, but alas for the purposes of this blog, and my curiosity, i ripped apart that sucker like it was the ugliest presentation going.  Inside, hidden amongst the abundance of foam were 4 bath time treats.

Creamy Candy Bubble Bar

The Comforter Bubble Bar

So, these two here are basically supposed to be bubble bath without the bottle, which is quite an interesting concept. I'm assuming you just toss them into the bath and wait for the bubbles to rise? I'll soon find out. I'm excited by the idea of the comforter, i always find baths are sleep inducing as it is, so bubble bath which is billed as a 'big comforting hug' sounds lovely.

Space Girl Bath Bomb

Think pink Bath Bomb

The next two items included are Bath Bombs, Space Girl and Think Pink. I'm extremely excited to use the Space Girl bomb, I can see it contains glitter and if you haven't been able to tell already, glitter is something i think should be included in everyone's day! I've used a couple of bath bombs before, i remember they left me distinctly unimpressed however, i believe i was in the 10-13 year old range and they were fairly cheap. Bath bombs appear to be one of Lush's staple products and sometimes include little surprises, basically putting on a little show in your bath. It's fair to say I have high hopes for these little beauties. 

On top of this little package, Grant also bought be three other bath goodies to add to my stash. One of them is another Space Girl bath bomb, knowing how glitter and planets do it for me.

Sunnyside Bubble Bar

Sex Bomb Bath Bomb

The Last two items included are the Sunnyside Bubble bar, an indulgent looking treat chock full of glitter and a Sex Bomb Bath Bomb. A golden bath and the promise of sensuality? Who wouldn't be excited to give these a go.

I have high expectations for these bath time goodies and could probably say with certainty that i will be making a Lush order of my own in the near future! I cannot wait to try these out. As i understand, they do have a use by date, so i will be test driving them soon.

Have you used any of these items? Are Lush products a staple in your bath time routine?