So I've been extremely stressed recently, and have struggled to find time and topics to blog about. Because the rest of my family have to work, I have been 'chief puppy looker afterer', which means even less time to blog. I love my little scamp, but I've been exhausted. So instead of a long written post I thought another inspirational post would be better. So I've picked some really motivational quotes to help get you through the day- and me!

So I thought I had better do another little life snippet, to update you all on what's been happening in my life recently. I never know how interesting these posts are for you, but I also know that it's quite relaxing sometimes to have something less stressful to read (I realise I say something like this in every post).


So I recently hit the 4000 views mark on my blog, which to outsiders doesn't seem very much at all, but to me I think that's a great start. That fact my little blog has been looked at and read 4000 times makes me very happy! Of course it'd be fantastic to see those figures rising more and more,but so far I do genuinely see it as an achievement, and my blog has become something I am very proud of.

I may not be the best writer in the world, or the best blogger, but I do have a passion for what I do. I love to be able to make someone happy through my words, or to inspire someone through just writing something.

I was very down recently because I did not get the grades I had hoped for in some of my assignments at University, which when you are studying Writing, is very disheartening when you have such a passion for blogging. However, sometimes I think 'what do they know'? I love what I do and have received such positive feedback so I am going to just continue doing what I love. What do grades mean anyway? Nobody is the same so how can you mark writing when there isn't a right or wrong answer! I, and many others experiencing the same need to be proud of their own work and remember that others are different to you and only you can write what you write!

So I also moved out of my University Halls of Residence which was a very emotional time for me. It didn't help that I was rushed out of it for an inspection- I barely got to say goodbye-( Am I the only one who feels the need to say farewell to rooms?). Anyway, I'm back in Northampton now, and with some very exciting news coming up!

Because I am away from University for 3 months, I will really try my best to be 100% dedicated to blogging. I will also try my best to do as many Vlogs as I can also. Of course I was aiming to do one every Saturday, however sometimes I have found it rather hard, so I will try my best to upload vlogs when I can.

Today has been a beautiful day, and I spent it being in town and at the park with two of my very close University friends (who happen to live near me). We had a little picnic, over looking the lakes and the ducks and we saw a very aggressive swan! It has been a lovely day!

So that's my life at the moment, for you! What have you all been up to? X

I know people love a good ol' 'How To' blog post, myself including, so I thought it was about time I did another. I don't know how helpful it will be but I suppose we shall fathom that at the end. So recently I been a little down and I sat at my desk all alone, feeling sorry for myself, and it got me pondering happiness.
Sure, we all feel down and sometimes we feel really down and we think that happiness is so far out of reach or for some is an impossible task. But I soon realised it wasn't. Sometimes when we're down, we see happiness as something enormous and difficult to get, which then only makes us feel worse. We sometimes feel as though we are never going to be perfectly happy. So whilst pondering, I thought I would list down some steps as to being happy. Now of course I'm not saying these will definitely work or that they are scientifically proved, but they have helped me.


1.) Realisation- Sometimes even WE don't know why we are sad, we just are. And not knowing can make things worse, which is why I feel it is best to ask yourself and really dig deep, 'Why am I sad? What is causing my sadness?' Now it will take time, and there are days when we are literally down for no reason, but usually there will be a reason, and once you've figured out what it is, you'll be able to understand your emotions and perhaps overcome it.

2.) Acceptance- Accept the situations, accept your life and accept yourself. This is tricky. I won't sit here and act like it'll be easy. I still have a lot of work to do on this step. I find it hard to accept things in life, things that aren't fair and make me ask 'why me?'. But getting wound up about something won't necessarily change it. Unfortunately in life, things aren't always fair, and they do suck! But it is how we react and go about them that will result in a happier self. We sometimes have to just ACCEPT that there will be bad times, and some days we will be sad. But that's okay, we're only human.

3.) Talk to people- bottling up emotions is never good. Hell, I've tried, and I'm sure you all have too. So maybe you feel most comfortable with a friend or maybe your sibling or your mother, who ever you feel is the right person to talk to, talk to them. Even if they have no opinion on the matter, just having someone to listening will feel great. And once you've ranted and gotten everything off you chest, a huge weight will be lifted. Will the problem be solved, no probably not, but you'll feel happier for sharing. And besides that's what your friends and family are for.

4.) Don't be angry- We all get angry from time to time, I get angry a lot. But what does anger really solve- nothing. So it's a whole lot of wasted energy resulting in nothing. It's so much better to just brush it off your shoulder and let it go. Need I sing Frozen's 'Let It Go' here? I know we all want to get angry sometimes, not that its a nice feeling but in some ways I feel as though because it is one of the stronger emotions we feel more certain and powerful, which can often give us a rush of adrenaline. But wouldn't you rather have a happy adrenaline rush. If you face things positively they are much more likely to be resolved. So don't be angry, just stay calm and distract yourself with something that will make you laugh.

5.) Always make time for family- I know when you get to a certain age, all you want to do is hang out with your friends. And whilst friends are extremely important, nothing goes deeper than family. I know that I feel at my happiest when I am with my family. And if you are lucky enough to have a good family, then there is just so much unconditional support, comfort and love there waiting for you. Whenever I feel down, I think of my family and how crazy we are. It gives me strength . When you're with family, you can completely relax and be you.

6.) Do fun things- Sounds and obvious one but it can be the simplest of things. Such as going for a coffee with an old friend and catching up, or booking cinema tickets to a funny movie. Even a little stroll through the park with your partner, will be enough to make you feel like you did something productive with your day. I went for a 10 minute walk through the park with my boyfriend the other day- so simple- and it made me ridiculously happy! Or if these aren't your things, then whatever is, you should do them. Having something to look forward to or maybe something spontaneous, are really great, easy ways to stay positive and happy.

7.) Listening to happy music- Music can have such a strong impact on our emotions and mood. If I listen to a sad song, I feel sad. It goes without saying. So listen to a happy song in the car or whilst getting ready in the morning, it does a world of good!

8.) Stay cool- Whenever I get hot and bothered I feel angry and stressed. Whenever I'm walking somewhere, because I am a fast walker, I get hot very easily. So if you're like me, then plan extra time to walk, so you don't have to walk so fast, don't get out of breath, and you'll have more time to enjoy the walk. This sounds like a silly step, but like I said, sometimes it's the little things, that will determine anger/happiness.

9.) Treat yourself- I know some of us aren't exactly rich, so this one may be a little difficult. But I'm not suggesting you spend heaps of money all the time. Just every now and again or when you're feeling down, treat yourself. It could even be free, for example a relaxing evening away from work/study, with a face pack and a movie. I treated myself to a Domino's pizza the other night- totally worth it!

10.) Relax- It's so easy to get stressed these days. So why not try sleeping to some relaxing music. When I did that for a week, my sleeping was so much better and I felt a lot better for doing it. It can really help stress levels. Or if you're not in to that then meditation could work- although a little hard if you're a fidget like me! Whatever it is that you find relaxing, a bubble bath maybe, it'll help you wind down from the day and you'll see that anger wash away!

Now I hope these little tips have helped. Of course these aren't the only steps, but these were some I had thought of and wanted to share with you all! X

Okay so I know it is not Summer until 21st June, but seeing as we have been having lovely spring weather(that feels somewhat summery) I thought I'd touch upon the weather in Britain. You see, sunshine doesn't really exist much in Britain, and when it does it is usually accompanied by wind, rain or even snow. I find it kind of funny, how we Brits react to the sunshine, so I thought a blog post was a must.

You know it's Summer in Britain when....


1.) You can't go anywhere without smelling suncream..

2.) The meat shelves in supermarkets are empty...

3.) Everyone is having a BBQ...

4.) People turn into lobsters even at 20 degrees...

5.) You get deafened by the noise of hundreds of flip flops...

6.) It's time to get the paddling pools out...

7.) You hear that glorious sound of the ice cream van...

8.) Everyone is sat outside... gardens, pubs, parks... you can't escape us...

9.) Bowls of water are outside every holiday shop, for thirsty dogs...

10.) Wasps.. WASPS... AHHH

11.) Dads become masters of BBQ tools...

12.) Mothers become over protective and make sure the food is near to charcoal just to make sure it's cooked properly....
13.) Kids wear those sun hats that have the flap bit on the back that covers their shoulders...

14.) Fruit suddenly become more popular...

15.) Ice Lollies are the after school treat...

16.) Beaches are packed even though its actually still fairly cold... but the sun is out so...

17.) The first sight of any existent sun, means everyone starts sunbathing...

18.) Old women apparently like to sunbathe too...

19.) Sleeping becomes difficult because of the 'heat' and to be honest, the pain of sunburn...

20.) After a while everyone decides it's 'just too hot to do anything' and we all go inside...


That pretty much sums us up I think. If you have anymore please comment and let me know!

Speak Soon X

Hi guys, so today's vlog will have to be a blog. I will still be blogging tomorrow,but felt guilty leaving you all with nothing, especially as it's Saturday. So basically I was planning to do a Day in the Life style video, but it pretty much failed. I recorded footage but most of it won't load to my computer and also I spent most of my day sunbathing, which I realise is not in the slightest bit interesting for you all to watch. So apologies there!

So today I wanted to do a big food shop. With only two weeks left in halls, I needed more food as otherwise I'd be living off soup for fourteen day- not good! So myself and Leo headed to town.

We came back with three disposable BBQs and BBQ food. Not exactly a big food shop- oops!

Oh well we couldn't pass up this opportunity. And it was lush, we had spicy chicken wings and burgers! We then spent about 3 hours sun bathing which was glorious. We were planning on going round Southsea Castle- because I love a bit of history! But unfortunately it was closed by the time we were done sunning ourselves!

When I got back, ready to edit my video, I had such a nightmare, because I couldn't load the footage and then half of it disappeared, like I said. So I know this blog does not make up for it but at least I didn't forget about you! Even though it is the most beautiful day out, I still was thinking of you guys!

Also, I had a weird encounter. There I was lying in the beautiful sunshine when this small child came hurtling towards me and then practically sat on me. He/she spoke no words but just stared. I was majorly creeped out!

So please continue reading and subscribing and following. I now also have Pinterest (although I don't understand it) so follow me on that and twitter!

Tea. An amazing cure for almost every little stress and pain known to man.

For me, tea is a daily part of my life and I don't think I could not include tea in my routine. I thought that today I would talk to you all about the importance of tea, or at least how important it is to me!

I love tea I think it's wonderful, and it was really sad when I had to stop drinking milk and switch to soya milk for a short period of time to determine if I was lactose intolerant- luckily I don't think I am, phew! But no, I am back on the milk now which means bring on the tea. I for one feel as though I cannot function properly without my cup of tea in the morning. There is certainly something special and heart warming about sitting down with family or friends and sipping a hot cup of tea whilst chatting about the latest gossip.

And I'm not sure what it is about it that makes it so special to us. Of course non British people reading this maybe think it is so stereotypically English of me to be blogging about this, but to be honest tea is amazing, don't even deny it! I have about a hundred different mugs it would seem, and though I never feel as if I have enough. I love having tea in different mugs. I love clutching onto their little handles and wrapping my cold hands around the warm beverage that waits inside.

And what's more... biscuits. I'm sorry but if you've never dunked a biscuit in your tea, then you have not lived. Just don't dunk it for too long because... well you'll see.

I think tea has an importance in life. It brings people together, and you could be the busiest person on the planet, but on that five minute break you get, you sit down with a cuppa and all is well again. I don't understand people who don't drink tea. You're missing out, if anything on 'tea bonding'. The hours I have spent at University, sat down with a cuppa talking to friends is probably a triple figured digit!

What do you do when you're sad? Put the kettle on.
What do you do when you're ill?   Put the kettle on.
What do you do when you're celebrating? Put the kettle on.
What do you do when you're tired? Put the kettle on.
What do you do when you're bored? Put the kettle on? Probably. There isn't much else to do...

In some countries and cultures, tea is made into a ceremony. I think it should be. Tea has served us and been there for us when others haven't and it has never failed to make us feel better. So love your tea bags... and your tea bags will love you-( sounds as if I'm trying to make up a euphemism-naughty!)

Now I'm going to end this post, because quite frankly, I need a cup of tea. So here are some pictures of some of my really cool mugs....





Why don't you take a photo of your favourite mugs and leave a comment? #whynot #teabonding

Good day to all you beautiful blog readers! Today I thought I'd write a little bit about beauty itself. What is beauty? How do we become beautiful? And really the answer is simple. Everyone holds beauty within them. You probably don't believe me and have heard it said a thousand times, but it's honestly true.

So today I woke up late. At about 12 O'clock- so I'd missed breakfast, which meant breakfast and lunch had to merge into one. My flat mate and I decided that today would be a Disney day, and we watched Cinderella and Peter Pan, which are personal faves, and I enjoyed some Easter chocolate during. Unfortunately I bit into my chocolate bunny's head- killing him instantly- he tasted good though! I think it's fair to say today has been a lazy day.

I think it's important to have 'lazy days' once in a while. Where you can sit around for hours drinking hot chocolate or tea, and dunking a biscuit in so daringly until it almost breaks off and kaplunks into its hot death. I think lazy days help us rejuvenate and relax. It extremely important to do so, because we gather so much stress and we sometimes need to let it out. It's good to chill out and let your emotions flow, and it's healthy.

After watching two Disney films and getting rather emotional and feeling nostalgic, I went for a run with my friend. Not exactly lazy you may think, but to be honest it wasn't exactly marathon worthy running! After jogging alongside the beach, we went to the playground and sat on the swings. You know, as adults do...

Well it was fun, and it made us feel like kids again which is always a pleasure!

Now, as I finish writing this little update, I'm sat with barely any emotions. Not because I don't feel any, but because I currently have a mud face pack on which is slowly tightening, and I can't move my face for fear of it cracking ( the mask, not my face)! I also have a very annoying itch which I can't scratch! I've  re-painted my nails, which are now a lovely fruity red colour, although I've already managed to chip it! How?!

Today has been  lazy, but I've loved it. Even if days aren't spent out and about, it doesn't mean they can't be cherished. Sometimes I crave these little moments, the simple things, and its good to enjoy them when you can. So sit back on the sofa and enjoy a romcom and don't feel guilty about it!!

Good Night! X

P.S sneezing when you have a face pack on is hard....

So I've been seeing a lot of pictures on social media recently with the tag '#TBT'. I never even knew what this meant until fairly recently. But for anyone who doesn't know, it stands for Throw Back Thursday. And with this tag, most people like to share an old photo or memory which I think is a lovely idea.


However for some people, looking back into their past, isn't the nicest of things to do. Not everyone has had a wonderful past and unfortunately nothing can change that. Now I don't want people reading this to think that I am in any means saying that Throw Back Thursday is bad- it isn't and I like it! I wrote in a previous blog post about not dwelling on the past and I think this is relevant here. Perhaps instead of Throw Back Thursday, we should focus on Throw Forward Thursday, and spend time thinking about all the little things that we look forward to in the future.

Because no matter how dark your past is, the future will always provide light.

You should always enjoy the memories of the past, never forget them and hold them close to your heart, and you should always appreciate the  present. Live for the moment more and enjoy what you have right now. I don't think people should spend their whole present thinking about the future. However thinking about the little things can really help keep us going. For example thinking about a possible holiday with a loved one can really make a difference to your attitude. I really want to go back to DisneyLand Paris next year for my 21st birthday- and even though it is a way away, it makes me smile thinking that it might happen. The thought of moving into a house in September with some close friends, is also making me excited and really lifting my happiness levels.

If we are down about the past or even the present, it really has an impact in our mood and happiness. But the one thing that we can't be sad about is the future- because it hasn't happened yet. So imagine it as a blank canvas or an empty book which is down to you to fill with wonderous, amazing adventures and smiles. Just because you are growing up, doesn't mean you can't have just as many adventures as you did when you were a kid.

So lock the past in your heart, and don't dwell. Live for the present and live it well. Look forward to the future, and never think that the tunnel is closed- there is always light!

I am currently sat here at my desk (or as I'd prefer to call it, 'my office') with my laptop and a cup of tea to the right of me, and the window to the left. I've had a lovely Easter break back down in Northampton with my family, but soon felt like I was ready to come back to Portsmouth. As you saw from my Vlog 'Shopping Haul: University Bits and Bobs' I had lots of things to use and unpack when I arrived here yesterday afternoon. My room now smells very fragrant and beautiful!

    Last night my flatmate and I had the choice of going out or staying in ( a choice that is always a tricky one!) but after debate we decided to stay in and watch Made In Chelsea whilst having a bit of el vino! It was a lovely night and before we knew it we were playing cards ( a game called 'poo head' that another flatmate taught us in freshers week) and that game where you stick a post-it note on each others' heads and you have to guess the name on it- I can't even remember the name of the game so I probably wasn't much use at playing it! It was a lovely evening to come back to and I already felt settled back in.

   This morning I must admit I had a bit of a lie in- but only until 11 because my sleep hadn't been the best and it wasn't getting any better. So I decided to pop in the shower and throw on a baggy top, leggings and some lovely little Greek looking sandals. I had a very healthy breakie of weetabix biscuits and activia yogurt. Yum! A great way to start the day (goodness that sounds cheesy)! It was lovely and sunny out but the big ol' ball of fire seems to have gone away for a bit, which is annoying considering I'm about to go out shopping- much preparation for my Primark Haul Vlog on Saturday!

    Considering it's the first few days back, it's extremely quiet. Perhaps everyone is SO settled in they can't leave their beds? Either that or everyone is at a party that I wasn't invited to (slightly concerned now!) Just kidding! It's still a bit chilly here although yesterday afternoon was blissful.


So I've just gotten back from shopping- got a bit cold! Bought a few things from Pri of the Mark (Primark) that I'm in love with! Then came back and had a cuppa of course and a very healthy post-shopping lunch! ( how long will the healthy eating last I wonder?) Feeling very tired now so may take a nap or spend some time on Youtube now!

I thought today, because it has been a kind of settling back in sort of day, that I'd just simply write about it. Sometimes its nice to just read something simple, and I don't want to bore people or hurt their brains by writing really serious stuff. So I hope you've enjoyed this little snippet of my life!

I will be trying to post at least 3 times a week from now on, with a vlog on each Saturday! Please stay tuned and subscribe and follow me on all accounts!! Thanks for the support!

Today is beautiful, and recently we've had a few days like this. The sun has been shining and the wind has kept to a minimum, and to England's surprise there has hardly been any rain! This is the kind of weather we like to see. Not only does the sun get more people out and about in the fresh air, but it makes us feel happier on the inside as well because the sun gives out vitamin D which is a key factor in human happiness. Now that Spring has arrived there will be little baby duckings on the lakes and the sweet sound of baby birds chirping in the trees and little cotton soft lambs will be seen wobbling in the fields as they learn to take their first steps. Spring is a beautiful season.

          It is a perfect chance to prepare yourself for the Summer season as well. With enough sunshine giving us our vitamins, we will begin to feel happier in ourselves as the gloomy months appear to now be over. It's a great chance to make ourselves feel good about life and walk around with a smile. For many, University is almost over and for Schools, the last term is around the corner. Sometimes Spring gets cast aside as most people's favourite season is Summer. However why not extend your love of the outdoors, and make Spring your new favourite. The temperature is lovely and isn't too hot or too cold so you won't be rummaging through your closets for bikinis just yet, but you also don't have to throw on the hoodies. It's a brilliant opportunity for photography. And of course nowadays you don't need a professional camera to take photos. Simply use your phone and snap away at earth's beauty. Why not go jogging with friends or take your dog to the park for a game of catch? Visit new places and have long day trips to different cities.
     
         
  As said before Spring is a great time to prepare yourself for upcoming months. Perhaps something simple like the discovery of a new moisturiser might get you excited by making your skin glow and feel fantastic. The shops are full of new summery clothing ranges that will give you plenty of joy looking through with your best girl friends or even a lovely shopping trip with your mother (its always good to have a natter).
If you're in a relationship, a nice weekend away might recapture the magic and introduce new things to the relationship. If you're single nice evenings out or in pub gardens will make you love your freedom and enjoy what's in front of you.

          Whatever your situation, Spring is guaranteed to make you feel wonderful and renewed. Don't forget about it and wait for Summer. Get outside and enjoy the weather and do new things. Don't sit around inside for weeks. It'll do you good on the inside and on the outside. Smile and be happy!

So this is just my opinion, but I've chosen really wisely. And it's hard, it's very hard to choose only 5. Why do this blog post you may ask? Well I feel like people need a little uplifting every now and again, and who wants to read pages and pages of serious stuff? Let's face it, Disney is magical- all that disagree are ... wrong. And music can really relax and cheer people up. So I've picked of my top five inspirational and motivational Disney songs! Enjoy :)

At number 5...
Go The Distance- Hercules
Sometimes, I think Hercules gets a bit forgotten. I'm not sure why because it's brilliant. This song for me, tells those who listen to it that you really can do anything you put your mind to. When listening to this song I for some reason think of climbing a mountain through storms and reaching the top with dignity, and as I reach the top, the clouds part and I can see a beautiful sun rise! It could happen!
Go The Distance

Number 4...
Can You Feel The Love Tonight- The Lion King
I'm sorry but this song makes me want to stand under a waterfall and run through a jungle in a 'happily in love' kind of way! I can't help but mime this song in a sort of slow motion, head swaying, arm gestured way.
Can You Feel the Love Tonight

Number 3...
You Got A Friend in Me- Toy Story
This song always makes me feel lucky to have such wonderful people in my life. Whether it be family or friends, this song always reminds me that sometimes the person who is the most loyal, is someone you may least expect. It also reminds us that someone who stands by us through thick and thin, must never go unnoticed as a friend. It's also a really chirpy, happy tune that gets everyone singing and bobbing along!
You Got A Friend in Me

Number 2....
Let It Go- Frozen
This goes without saying. It didn't win an Oscar for nothing. It is amazing. But seriously guys, let it go. Just let it go. This song makes us remember to be ourselves and let our person inside us be free. No song has ever made me want to live in a house made of ice, more than this song does.
Let It Go

And finally...
Number 1.............................
I'll Make a Man out of You- Mulan
Words cannot, they just cannot, express my love for this song. I think everyone would agree that this song has such power that after listening to it, we feel we too are ready to defeat the Huns. I always like to listen to this song whilst running. It really helps motivate me, with its beautifully sculpted lyrics.
I'll Make A Man Out of You

Wasn't being a child just the most fun you've ever had? Wasn't it so easy and magical? Now, as you're speedily growing up faster than your body promised(dear body, I thought we had a deal?), things are being revealed to you as harder than they once looked. Being 20 and having finally turned into an age where I no longer can use the excuse' I'm a kid' or 'i'm still a teenager', I'm having to come to terms with the fact I actually have to do things now! 
2.) Cleaning. The floor was wonderfully soft and clean, the coffee table had no rings on it and the bathroom always sparkled. Now it feels like an on going chore that never ends. You wash all the dishes up then have to re-use them for having a cup of tea and slice of toast and so on-it never ends!! Not to mention the amount you have to spend on washing up liquid. It never ran out when you were a kid, why now that you're an adult does it seem to disappear before your own eyes?!

3.) Laundry. Ever wondered how your dirty clothes ended up back in your wardrobe? It's because your mum cleaned them in something called a washing machine ( I know right, who knew?). Now, if you're a student or someone who isn't able to buy their own machine yet, you have to lug all your dirty washing to the nearest laundrette and save and collect your pennies for weeks just to do one load of washing, only for the tumble dryers to not fully dry your clothes. Absolute madness!