Back to Blogging!

Hey there!

I feel like I have a huge amount of explaining to do...recently, I've been spending a large amount of time away from the deep, dark depths of the Internet. I realised my constant blogging updates and brainstorm sessions beforehand were taking up precious family time and those around me drifted away. The majority of this year, as a result of this, has been catching up with old chums and embracing the positive energy around me!  

This year has already brought new challenges, even bigger achievements, new people, lasting memories and a playlist full of  motivational tunes to get me back on track! A special event that I celebrated with my partner this month included our 1 year anniversary- not a massive deal to some, but nonetheless a very special moment for the both of us! I simply can't wait to share with you everything I've been getting up to in the past 6 months of 2016 - so many blog posts lined up and plenty of new content!

Let's not forget my YouTube channel that I neglected for a whole entire month - I deserve a right telling off! Follow the link below to check out a HUGE throwback to my summer last year - I had so much fun making this video and cannot wait to update my channel with yet another trip to sunny Spain! 

Look out for yet another video soon for my upcoming holiday to Barcelona with my other half - I'm excited to film it and can't to share it all with you! 

See you soon! Xxx

Current Playlist #2

Hey there,

I can't believe just how long it's been since writing my last blog post - boy, have I missed my little slice of the Internet. I hope you've all had a warm welcome into 2016 with positive attitudes and huge aspirations! Over the Christmas period I received some new headphones - words cannot describe how unbelievably happy I was with them. Since then, I've taken them absolutely everywhere with me - around the house, on the bus and even in the bath, so you can imagine the vast amount of new music I've discovered! 

I thought I'd share with you some of my favourite new releases for 2016:

1) Love Yourself - Justin Bieber

Anyone who says they're not a Belieber is clearly lying! From an annoying teen with an oversized fringe to a huge music sensation, Justin has seriously proved himself with his new album. I can't get enough of his tunes at the moment and I wasn't surprised to find this at No.1. Such a catchy song, not sure about the music video though. 

2) Sorry - Justin Bieber

Yet another Bieber song made it's way up the ladder and stands at No.2 in the charts. No matter where I am, I can't resist dancing away to this hit - it's just too catchy!

3) Hello - Adele 

Not everyone's favourite, but I can't get enough of Adele right now - even the music video is exceptional. Such a powerful voice that woman has - definitely a ballad for the shower!

4) Sax - Fleur East

How can you not love this song?! Definitely a family favourite in my house and a feel good tune to listen to whatever the season. Personally, I would say this is the perfect tune to hit the gym with and have a good workout!  

5) Don't Be So Hard on Yourself - Jess Glynne

I don't know about you, but I've recently found a new passion for Jess Glynne's music. Infact, I was so excited to receive her new album for Christmas that I physically screamed in joy! Not only does this song have good meaning behind it, but it's just so damn catchy and this is definitely my go to song for a good pick me up! 

Lastly, I thought I'd add a new addition this series with a recommended band that I've been so looking forward to sharing with you all. Recently, thanks to my loving boyfriend, I've been introduced to a new band known by the name of 'Missing Andy.' Your typical British band - full of humour, full of energy and full of genuine talent. 

Below is a link to my personal favourite and I'm not joking when I say I could quite literally sit for hours listening to their full playlist, so I suggest you give them a listen!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChmrZ6hz37o

I hope you like my choice in music and I can't wait to update you with some new chart-toppers next time!

Bye now! Xxx

Throwback to Prom!

Hey there,

It's definitely been a while since I've updated my little slice of the Internet -  life has just completely taken over! I just can't believe how time is whizzing by and it feels like ages since prom season...crazy right?! I jumped at the chance to attend my school prom this year, to celebrate an era - the perfect reason to pamper yourself with sparkles and extensions and dress to impress...

Prom season has always been the most exciting time of year for school leaver's. I was lucky enough to be invited by a group of my close friends to prom and of course, I didn't even hesitate to sign up and pay my first deposit! For years I'd been dreaming of this date - any excuse to treat myself to a make-over, but first some serious shopping had to be done...

Shopping for the perfect dress proved to be a stressful procedure, but I couldn't have been happier with my choice. After spending hours on end browsing through endless ball gowns, from long and flowing to short and sparkly, I found the perfect dress. A mad dash round the shops for accessories was desperately needed, but you can't go wrong with a bit of sparkle!

Time was fast approaching us and before I knew it, I was singing away in the back of our mini-bus speeding past the heavy traffic in London. Our chauffeur had  dropped us right outside and I couldn't believe the sheer size of the venue - it was incredible! The building was absolutely mesmerizing and everyone looked stunning! Couples were queuing up for photos on the red carpet, sipping bucks fizz from classy champagne glasses. Camera flashes were everywhere and everyone was buzzing from the excitement!

Drinks were being downed by the gallon and it's safe to say everyone had a great night - even the teachers were dancing. Everyone looked stunning in their ball gowns and this evening is definitely mt favourite unforgettable memory! 

Let me know your favourite prom moments in the comments below!

Bye now! Xxx

Reflection on New Year's Resolutions...

Hey there,

Halfway through the year already with only 20 more Fridays until Christmas - how time flies! I couldn't think of a better time to write yet another blog post than on my lunch break with the summer sun streaming through my office windows! 

My New Year's Resolutions

Since we are flying through 2015, I thought I'd take the time to sit back and reflect upon some promises I made to myself all the way back in January. Usually I avoid making resolutions - I hate sticking to guidelines and following rules, but this year was something different. I was determined to start my adulthood in a positive frame of mind!

Believe in Myself More

2015 was the start of a whole 'new me.' I know it's all very cliche, but I was determined this would be the year of positivity and change!The best possible advice I could honestly give anyone suffering with self-esteem issues is to surround yourself with people who make you happy. Since leaving education and busying myself at work, I've transformed into a whole new woman!

Panic Attacks
Panic attacks have always been an issue for me - no amount of explaining could ever picture how difficult it is to live with anxious episodes and panic attacks! Never knowing when they might happen or what may trigger them is a huge worry for me, but I am slowly and gradually learning to deal with them and am proud of how far I've come - onwards and upwards!

Appreciate those Special to Me
It takes a lot to realise just how precious your social life is - they may not be blood related but your friends are the family you choose! Spending time with positive people will make a huge difference and recently, I've become a part of a new circle of friends. Although we may have our petty arguments, we are an extremely supportive bunch and I treasure their company dearly!

Read More

Growing up, reading was my absolutely favourite pastime - I'd always have my head deep in a book. Since commuting to work, I've picked up this hobby again and am gradually becoming an avid bookworm. I mean, what better way to pass the time commuting backwards and forwards to work! Look out for some book reviews on my little slice of the Internet - coming soon to a blog near you...

Smile More

Simple, yet effective - a smile can go a long way! I've never been confident in showing off my smile, but now I can't resist taking a selfie everywhere I go. You'll never catch me without a big grin on my face!

How are you coping this year with your New Year's resolutions?

Bye for now! Xxx

Current Playlist #1

Hey there,

What a morning - words can't even begin to describe the emotions that took over today! Music has definitely been essential, especially when revising my socks off in the heat of the summer sun for those crucial exams! I'll admit I have a playlist for absolutely everything from 'singing in the shower' to settling myself off to sleep. Honestly, I'm raving mad about music and all the latest bands, but Glastonbury and Reading are just a dream away...

Luckily, I have no shame when rocking out to my favourite tunes and am not afraid to show off my moves or hit those high notes, wherever I may be! Festival season is fast approaching, so I thought I'd share with you some of my current favourites...

1) Cheerleader - Omi

Hands down this song proudly holds first place in my Summer playlist! Can't say I'm all that fussed about the music video, but it's just so darn catchy!

2) Bills - Lunchmoney Lewis

Love it or lump it - I'm sure everyone is talking about this tune right now! I'm not surprised this tune has slowly grown on me. Infact, I'm almost certain it's a strong family favourite, heavily blasting from our speakers down the motorway!

3) Bad Blood - Taylor Swift

Taylor never fails to impress me - such a talented woman with a powerful voice! If you haven't already seen the music video, (seriously where have you been?!) I highly recommend it - she looks incredible! *pauses for breath* 

4) See You Again - Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth

For personal reasons, this song holds a lot of meaning and one that is unbelievably close to my heart. I can't help but get emotional every time it plays, but it certainly brings up some beautiful memories!

5) Where Are U Now - Skrillex & Duplo ft Justin Bieber

Who would have thought Justin Bieber and Skrillex would sound so good?! Never been a big fan of either artists, but I couldn't help falling in love with these beats. Definitely a feel good tune for this summer!

I hope you like my choice in music and I can't wait to update you with some new chart-toppers next month!

Bye for now! Xxx

Shower Reflection

Hey there!

Back again with yet another short update for you on my pretty little slice of the Internet! How I'm glad to be back. I can't stress enough to you how busy I've been recently - conquering endless mountains of revision, pacing myself through the busy, working day. Not forgetting saving every spare moment to embrace my inner party animal. We all know girls just wanna have fun!

After hopping out of the shower, settling myself down with a hot chocolate and burning my favourite little candle, an idea occurred to me for a blog post...

Inspiration stems from the most peculiar places - whether it's keeping you up at night just before you're settled off to sleep or whilst strolling through the park on a warm, summer's day. Believe it or not, my ideal place for brainstorming is my beloved shower!

As much as I love to sing, (possibly deafening my poor neighbours,) this is where my creative juices start flowing. If I'm lathering myself up, inhaling the fumes of my favourite scented body wash for over an hour, then I'm most probably deep in thought. Once my brain starts buzzing, there is no stopping me.

Almost immediately, I'll wriggle my way deep into my fluffy dressing gown, heading straight for my blog, ready to scribble down my thoughts, eager to share with all of you - now that is dedication!

My question to you - where do you find your inspiration?

Bye for now! Xxx

The British Tag

Hey there,

It's been way too long since I last updated my blog, but fear no more I am back - here in the flesh, tapping away my keyboard! Recently, I've been rushed off my feet with one thing and another so have had no time to spare for my little slice of the Internet. More importantly, I've been hidden away with my head in a book for what seems like eternity - how I've missed catching up with my favourite authors! 

Unless you've been hidden under a rock, you'll have noticed that everyone seems to be significantly happier - thanks to these longer days and perfect sunshine! Not quite short wearing weather yet, but just enough to expose a little bit of leg. I can't help but daydream for summer to arrive, so I thought I'd take the opportunity to take part in...

1. How many cups of tea a day do you have? How many sugars?

I'll be honest, I'm not a huge tea fan - I'm more of a coffee drinker. If I'm not tucked away with my favourite book, then I'm most probably sat in Starbucks treating myself to a frothy coffee. Most days I'll get through 2 cups of coffee with just the one sugar. I'm already sweet enough - cue the cringe!

2. Favourite part of your roast?

Hands down, it just has to be roast potatoes. No Sunday dinner would be complete without a handful of crispy spuds - seasoned with just enough herbs to make your mouth water. 

3. Favourite dunking biscuit?

Definitely a tough one to answer, but I do love a good Bourbon. For something a bit more fancy, I'll never say no to a rich tea biscuit. 

4. Favourite quintessentially British pastime?

A monthly trip to London has always been on my checklist. Visiting landmarks and joining the local hustle and bustle is definitely something to admire about Britain - I just can't get enough of London!

5. Favourite word?

Bollocks - not the most pleasant of British words, but I'm forever catching myself saying it whenever I make a balls-up of something. Definitely brings the common side out of me!

6. Cockney rhyming slang?

Fortunately, I've had the privilege of being brought up by a former East-end father. I've always been fascinated by the language and love learning new phrases too! 

7. Favourite sweet?

You just can't beat a lemon sherbet. Definitely popular in the UK and I just can't get enough of them!

8. What would your pub be called?

Tough question I think - I've never been a creative one myself. British pubs always seem to be named after monarchs, so I guess mine would be have to be dedicated to the royals.

9. No.1 British person?

Hands down, Michael McIntyre! Enough said really - he's just so down to earth and never fails to make me giggle. 

10. Favourite Shop/Restaurant?

I've always been a big fan of the Harvester - that's one place I'm well known for! I do love a good pie and mash meal and I've always taken advantage of my local cafe too. Guess I'm just a food fanatic!

11. What British song pops into your head?

I wouldn't be British if I didn't mention our anthem. Known all over the world and something I'll never forget the words to. Can't beat a good ol' classic of Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley! That's definitely one to be saved for flashing those moves in your bedroom!

12. Marmite?

I'll admit I've never been a huge fan of marmite. They say you either love it or hate it, but I think I'm definitely an exception. If I'm in a rush, marmite on toast is the way to go!

Worth giving a go? I think so - I challenge all of you reading this to take part in the British Tag!

Bye for now! Xxx

My Adventures in Hospital 02/03/15

Hey there, 

It's definitely been a while since I've updated my little slice of the Internet  and to be honest, I can't apologize enough! How I've missed eagerly tapping away at my keyboard, frantically spewing out the contents of brain onto my blog for all you nosy viewers to read! 

I'm not asking for sympathy, but I can assure you last week was not an easy ride! You may think I'm making a big fuss out of nothing, but I've never been a huge fan of hospitals. Always full of disappointments, bad news and don't even get me started on the smell! 

For over a year now, I have been wearing a brace - pretty obvious if you've seen my countless number of photos, (a girl can never have too many selfies!) Just recently I've found a new attachment to it and can't bare to part with it yet. However, as much as I love my braces, I do not enjoy the tedious trips to the hospital with dentists towering over me peering inside my mouth - too close for comfort! 

But it doesn't just stop at the braces - oh no, my case is a lot more complicated than you may think! A couple of months ago, I was hit with the news that my jaw appeared to be slightly asymmetrical. At the time I remained quiet, yet calm, confident that it was nothing too serious. That was until they told me it meant I'd have to have my jaw realigned to prevent any problems in the future - definitely not something I was prepared for! 

Last week was the first initial step towards the end result and I'll admit I was definitely unprepared for what was yet to happen. Surrounded by patients in a hospital bed nervously waiting to be called in for my wisdom teeth to be removed was not my idea of fun!

Nevertheless, despite all the nerves I had been suppressing for hours on end, I couldn't resist whipping my camera out to pose for my outfit of the day - the typical hospital gown, (how attractive!)

Fortunately, I am back to my usual, perky self again and will be posting regularly on my blog again, so you won't have to miss me too much!

Bye for now! Xxx

#3 10 Things That Have Made Me Happy This Week

Hey there,

Seriously though, where did January go? I can't believe we've almost whizzed through February too - this year is flying by! I'm proud to say so far that my New Year's Resolutions are yet to be broken and I have high expectations for the rest of this year. Unfortunately, I had a turn for the worst at the start of this week and my fairytale relationship has come to an end. I am determined not to let this bother me and sometimes I think to myself it was a blessing in disguise. Love is a foolish emotion and I'll admit it hasn't been easy, but luckily for me I had the support I needed to make this week a good one!

1. Interacting with new bloggers on Twitter

2. Involving myself with a new group of friends

3. Watching the sun set in the evening from my office.

4. Finally meeting up with a good friend of mine.

5. Spending hours on Skype uncontrollably laughing to myself. 

6. Seeing my favourite bands play live at the O2.

7. Forever performing into my hairbrush in front of my mirror, being a diva.

8. Wasting pennies in the arcades. 

9. Messing about with my friend's dog.

10. Having a well deserved lie-in on a Sunday.

Bye for now! Xxx

HOW TO: Deal With Plane Stress...

Hey there,

I know what you're all probably thinking after reading the title of my blog post, have you seen the weather outside? I agree, it's not my ideal weather for a vacation. However, after having moved into the loft at work, I'm constantly watching planes flying overhead - it's hard not to day dream about my holiday! I'm nowhere near an expert on this, infact I've only ever flown once, but I remember feeling so anxious sitting in that airport for the first time. I know how terrifying flying can be for certain people, so I wanted to write a post to offer some helpful tips to ensure your flight is a good one...

Hydrate Yourself - it's always good to ensure you drink plenty before and during your flight. I find that my mood increases dramatically by hydrating myself well and prepares me for my travels.

Rest Well -  there's nothing worse than a sleepless night the evening before your flight. Reading before bed is a good way to relax, ensuring I fall asleep with no trouble.

Boiled Sweets - I found that squashing a packet of sweets in my coat pocket was the best decision I ever made on my first flight. Sucking on hard candy is a great distraction when flying and also the best way to help when your ears pop!

Relaxing Music - before you head on your journey, ensure you have a playlist with your favourite music stored on your phone/iPod. Listening to your most loved songs is the best way to help with any anxieties you may have.

I hope you find my tips useful and take note of these when flying abroad!

Bye for now! Xxx

5 Things I Want To Make A Habit

Hey there, 

Habits are usually something you want to give up, right? Biting your nails, binging on junk food for example? Occasionally I'll do things that make me feel good, things that I want to spend more time on to enable me to become more organised. These activities are what I want to become a habit to make me a better person, but in order for that to happen I must share them with you!

I'm a huge fan of lists, I don't think I could possibly be productive without them! If I'm not sat scribbling away in my notepad, then I'm probably rushing around completing all the tasks I was meant to do that I didn't have time for because I was too busy creating my list. In-fact, I'm pretty certain that making lists is my new favourite habit!

Listed below are my top 5 things I want to make habits:

1. Spend 5 - 10 Minutes Putting Things Away

Everyone loves coming home to a tidy bedroom, right? I feel it creates a better thinking space and makes me feel more productive. I usually have spare moments in my day, which I could use to declutter my space and generally tidy my occasional mess. I choose not to just so I can watch my favourite series on Netflix or catch up with my friends.

If you haven't guessed by now, I am the best at procrastinating. especially when it involves housework. I even blog away at work just to kill some extra time, but I've decided this needs to stop. My new routine will be to leave at least 5-10 minutes - making the bed, cleaning my desk space and throwing away all my old products!

2. Burn Scented Candles

It's almost impossible being a blogger to not like candles. I am a huge fan of Yankee Candles and can spend hours in store testing every single scent. There's nothing better than having a warm glow on your bedside table/desk on a winter's evening whilst blogging away!

3. Use My Travel Time Wisely

On an average working day, I spend at least an hour commuting to and from work. As much as I enjoy rocking out to my favourite tunes along the journey, I find that reading would be a much better way to pass the time. I love to get stuck into a good novel, but find I don't have much spare time to do this anymore. I'm not much of a people person in the morning so I think this would be a great way to spend my travel time!

4. Spend at least 30 Minutes Reading A Night

There's no denying that I'm a little geek! Growing up, I was an avid bookworm and used to always have my head in a book. I miss reading every evening with the warm glow of my lava lamp in the background. Recently, I've been recommended a couple of books that are worth reading, so I think adding this to my daily routine will be a good idea!

5. Save One Night A Week For Me-Time

It's not often I get the chance to treat myself to a pamper session at home. I love to treat myself to a bubbly LUSH bath with some relaxing tunes or Netflix playing in the background. I would consider myself to be a social butterfly and love to spend my evenings hanging with a group of my friends. Recently, I've found these late nights leave me feeling groggy and demotivated in the mornings and so I feel a night in would solve all my problems!

If you liked this post, comment below what things you want to make a habit?

Bye for now! Xxx