Battle of the Christmas ads 2014

So you are sitting there, by the fire, toasting your little toes as you unwind in front of the TV after a long day. You're probably anticipating Christmas (as I always feel round about November), eager I know but its the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas is just within reach and that my friends is an exciting statement.

So back to the image of toasting your little toes by the fire in front of the TV...you see for the very first time, the advert you have been waiting for.

The Christmas John Lewis advert.

It's been the ad on everyone's lips this season. Last year's bear and the hare advert saw many of us clasp our hands in that very 'awww' moment, which truly had us feeling that warmth and emotion that Christmas should bring and we all looked forward to experiencing the same festive sensations this year from John Lewis.

Doe this years Monty the penguin advert give the same effect or live up to expectations? To me, I love it because it is cute and to be quite frank, funny. What's funnier than a penguin waddling? It doesn't give me the same emotions as last year but nevertheless it put a smile on my face and that's good enough for me! It has been noted to have received 2.5 million views in less than 12 hours and set to surpass the success of last years ad but don't take my word for it...

Take a look for yourself.

Watch me

Sainsburys is competing and running in line with the best Christmas adverts out there, bringing the past to the present as we re-live the history of the one of the most moving moments of World War I.  The trench scenes of the war were reconstructed and the famous 'truce' between the British and German soldiers was recreated.

The ad is truly touching. It not only brings the poignant historic moment to the forefront of the media, but it does it with respect and authenticity. When the soldiers are only metres from each other in the midst of the battle, they agree to stop for a game of football, knowing that following this, they will go on to fight one another. It's heart-breaking.
In the Christmas advert, after the game of football, the British soldier secretly slips a gift into the pocket of a German soldier who later unwraps it to find a chocolate bar when he returns to his side of the battlefield.

Sainsbury's message; Christmas is for sharing.

Within a few short minutes, the emotional depth conveyed is astonishing. But this ad hasn't just portrayed beautiful cinematography to the public, it has dragged along with it, controversy too. The advert fails to represent the true living conditions of the trenches, failing to show the blood and entrails and the reality of the War.

Is it disrespectful to neglect such significant details?

For some this may be the case and it is important to acknowledge these opinions. However, I disagree. It was one of the most beautiful moments within one of the most horrific periods in history. The Royal British Legion worked in partnership with Sainsburys to reconstruct such a time and produce a powerful message that Christmas is all about sharing (as we sometimes forget) and this is all that we should take from it.

Watch the advert! My mum shed tears!

Watch me

And to end on a lighter note...

My favourite advert this Christmas is for Marks and Spencers. Spread a little magic and sparkle. I absolutely love Christmas. It's the most wonderful time of the year. (and what's more magical than fairies?)

"I BELIEVE IN FAIRIES"

and I also believe in Santa. hint hint. (I'll leave you out an extra mince pie Santa, I promise).

Watch the Marks and Spencer's Christmas advert for a little touch of sparkle!

Watch me

Hope you are enjoying the lead up to Christmas... I know I am xxxx

What's your favourite Christmas TV ad of 2014?

The haunting that is Insomnia

As it's only a mere 3 days until the spooky celebration otherwise known to us as Halloween, I thought I would write about the 'haunting' that is Insomnia. (and the fact that I experienced it just last night).

Just when you feel like you've had a good few consecutive days of uninterrupted and hassle free sleep, it seems to creep up when you least expect it- to come back and bite you in the butt.

Insomnia is the awful experience and ironically that 'tiresome' difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep for long enough to feel refreshed the next morning. Sound familiar?

As far back as I remember, (you know when your parents gave you those so-called bed times), 7pm, 8pm, or perhaps if you were lucky, an extra half an hour for being well behaved. That good old gold star ploy. Bed times are all fine and dandy at those ages but when you're really not tired enough and you are (you could say forced to your bed time), falling asleep can be some what of a mission.

"Count those sheep" my grandma once told me.

I usually have no trouble falling asleep. I'm tired when I go to bed and I nod off within minutes. But when it comes to counting the hours I have before I have to wake up or feeling the nerves of some sort of event the next day- sleeping, is a whole other story.

Last night:

I tossed and I turned, trying to find my optimum sleeping position. The curled up side ball, the spread out belly flop mimic or maybe the flat on my back sleeping beauty pose would work best. Neither of these seemed to work but instead made me feel flustered. What was to begin with, cool and invigorating bed sheets to accompany me, turned into the one leg in, one leg out scenario. Too hot, oop one goes out, then that "gosh it's cold", back they go in situation. (We've all been there). I even undertook the pillow turning technique- to experience the fresh and crisp sensation of the untouched cotton pillow sheet. You can imagine how many of these sessions I had.

For me, I knew I had an interview the next morning and that I had to catch the 7.10am train in order to get there in plenty of time. I therefore had my phone clock alarm set to 5.55am and counted the hours I had to sleep before I had to awaken.  As my mind was aware of these hours, they seemed to pass by one by one. And the longer it took for me to sleep, the more I feared that these hours were passing by. My inability to sleep was actually fear of not getting enough sleep, which is a weirdly odd conception.
Getting into bed, my thoughts were more like a repetitive revision session- going over the preparation I had prepared earlier that day for my interview and this certainly did not help. I believe a well-rested mind is key to combating insomnia.

So from a girl who's lived the tale, and on more than one occasion. Here are my....

Top tips to helping you fall asleep more easily: 

1. Try to relax your mind.  A de-stressing activity at least 1 hour before you want to fall asleep allows the brain to unwind. The brain is the key component during the sleep pattern,  so it is essential that you are not spinning with thoughts, ideas and worries. (Read a couple chapters of a book or watch an episode on Netflix). The mind needs time to relax! 
2. Put some lavender oil on your pillow. Research shows that the scent of lavender eases anxiety and insomnia and there are studies out there to prove it! Try Boots Botanics Aromatherapy Pure Essential Oil for under £10!
3. Avoid caffeine late in the evening. Caffeine interferes with the process of falling asleep and prevents deep sleep. It can also stay in your system for up to 24 hours. Instead, try a warm, milky drink or a herbal tea. Horlicks used to be my favourite childhood sleep remedy. Why not try my Nana's natural do-it-yourself sleep remedy drink of warm milk with honey. (It's so comforting). 
   
4.  Focus on your breathing. Focusing on your breathing and taking long, deep breaths will allow your mind to wonder off spinning thoughts and focus on something which is truly therapeutic and relaxing.
5. Make sure your room is dark. And now for the technical part. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone controlled by light exposure that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin production is controlled by light exposure. Your brain should secrete more in the evening, when it’s dark, to make you sleepy, and less during the day when it’s light and you want to stay awake and alert. (So be brave and turn off that night light or at least make sure your curtains cover the street light aiming directly into your bedroom). Light can suppress your body’s production of melatonin and make it harder to sleep.

Sweet dreams .x.

My Lust List

Please please please.

Don't you ever just sit there, zone out, and dream of owning things, (you know, if you had all the money in the world?).

Absolutely ridiculous question. I'll answer that one for you. Of course! If we were as rich as Kim K or as risky as that casino guy (spending the money you really don't have, or have, but shouldn't really spend), then I think we'd all be content and well on our way to ticking off those lust list check boxes, don't you?

Here are a few on my lust list...

1. A new perfume. (My 2 bottles of DKNY apple are finished, the large, and the mini handbag essential) and all my other perfumes have run out too. I know some people have a signature scent and I used to be one of those so-called 'don't you dare smell like me' people but I genuinely can't say I have one at the moment. So I think a stroll around Boots is an absolute must! (I'm quite excited). They say coffee beans help your nose adjust to the diverse scents, otherwise they all blend into one. A few that I am considering...

• My IT Jacket. Yes, I'm still to locate this nightmare of a find. I know she's out there somewhere. And yes again, referring to my previous post, my deadline was the 15th October, but the shops haven't been grabbing my attention (she says with a sad puppy dog face) and I want the coat to scream 'ME ME ME'. However, on my recent trip to Liverpool to visit my sister, I did see a lovely khaki jacket which apparently has now been reduced to almost half price, £59.99!! Now that shouts bargain! But they didn't have my size! Genuine female dilemma. (happens a lot). I'll have to re-visit Zara in hope that this jacket is 'the one'.

• A new foundation. My clinique one really is TOO light for me. Especially once I've slapped on those necessary layers of fake tan before a night out, only for your face to be visibly whiter (it's been pointed out many a time). But even bronzer doesn't fix this.

• An LBD. The little black dress. I've always been a fan of black on other people but never been a fan of black on myself. About time I changed this concocted formation that black doesn't suit me or black washes me out because I think the LBD, the little black dress is an absolute necessity for a woman's wardrobe. And being 22, I can't believe I still don't have one. 

• And lastly. A complete new wardrobe. (hey, stuff it, someone just give me a £5000 voucher so I can tip toe around Westfield shopping centre. It would probably be more like a consistent jog, no maybe a full on sprint, let's not lie). I think I face the same problem every typical female faces.........

Love...confessions of a shop-holic...shhh I won't tell if you won't.

(I've never quite been the one to save the pennies for a rainy day, I'm more of a 'money in my bank', big grinned, shopping spree spender kind of gal). Someone hand me a piggy bank before it's too late!

How healthy is your makeup?

What we apply to our faces, is absorbed into our bodies.

.......so how healthy actually is our make up? We want to feel great, look fabulous and live well so nourishing cosmetics would be a bonus and toxic make up should be a big no no.

I plan to research into the ingredients of certain beauty product brands and find a healthy option to feeling youthful and looking flawless.

Thoughts on this blog post idea?

Any contribution ideas welcome! Please feel free to comment.

x

It's the little things

It's the little things.

• catching that smile that cute guy aimed at you in the street
• old couples holding hands
• finding a ten pound note in your jeans pocket 
• the picture that little kid drew for you
• getting handed free perfume samples, (ideal clubbing accessory) 
• waking up to unread texts
• finding something you lost a long time ago....(your dignity). Kidding.
• or perhaps simply just singing in the shower- where you feel liberated and like no one can hear you. (You're wrong, but who cares, not everyone was born with the voice of an angel). Luckily I was gifted. 

As cliche as they may be, phrases such as 'live for the moment' or 'seize the day' embed among the most over-worked wordings in history. 'Yolo' being the most recent addition to the family. But do we even really know what they mean?

I do believe that a life full of fun, laughter and love is more expensive that anything that money could ever buy, so here are my tips on how to live for the moment because really, life is not about how many breaths we take, but about how many moments that take our breath away. Oh God, that old chestnut.  

1. SAY YES. Simple right? 'No' has always been a negative expression so it would make sense for you to do the opposite. So book that holiday, say yes to that date and take risks (and I don't mean, live dangerously), but spontaneity brings the things you least expect.
2. LEARN TO APPRECIATE THE NOW. Stop saying 'next year it will be better' and brushing past the good in your life by focusing on the bad. Sure, you might not have the ideal Victoria's Secret super model physique (the one that you have pinned to your fridge- saying DON'T GO IN THERE, you know, just to remind yourself) or perhaps the 6 figure salary to compensate for the lack of the former and to add to that you may be single and living your life like a complete and utter pringle. Buttt...that's not everything. 
3. Accept that the tattooed Tom Hardy look alike boyfriend will come later, as will your wish to look like a model be granted. (Well, after ten thousand fitness sessions and a couple of leaves for breakfast, lunch and dinner for the rest of your life). And as for that wishful salary that's got you feeling down- just mentally add an extra zero. (the minds a crazy, powerful thing).
4. Remember to.....

Body troubles of Winter

So the cold season has really sprung upon us.

Those daring breezes have crept their way back (you know, the disruptive ones that make you lose balance). And while the warm sun decides to vanish for a fair few months, we now must resort to A) fake tans, B) tanning beds or perhaps option C) remain ghostly, as our natural tanning technique takes a back seat.

The weather and time of year really seems to take its toll on our bodies and what we inhale into them. That's right, as we wrap up warmly, complain about the temperature and prepare ourselves for the most festive season of the year that is Christmas, we seem to damage our waistlines (unintentionally, of course) along the way.

So why is it, that the cold seasons make us put on a pound or two?

or three.

or four!???? (she says in a childish rebel-like tone).

So for most, the bikinis and trunks have been cast aside, to perhaps the bottom of the underwear drawer, or back into that box, labelled 'Summer wear' in big, bold marker pen. Apart from the exceptional few, the all year round body confident beings who enjoy swimming, for fun. (Crazy individuals). It's incredibly hard to keep up that physique! Our metabolisms are no longer identical to our 10 year old selves. And we definitely aren't as physically active as our hyper, playful 10 year old selves. (eventhough our inner child might be). 

As we generously find ourselves layering our clothing and covering our goose bumps with warm baggy jumpers, we escape the likelihood of the world seeing our 3 belly rolls and even perhaps our 3 neck rolls. (We have scarves for that, multi-purpose, who would have thought).

It's often hard to control your weight when the cold, dark days of Winter make outdoor exercise less appealing and even the journey to your local gym less appealing. We also start to crave those real comfort foods. (Great Gran's old treacle sponge pudding). I'm genuinely licking my lips.

It's not a surprise that our fitness plans go down the drain, when we are faced with such delicious wholesome and satisfying foods around Autumn and Winter. You only have to pass a cake shop, a pastry shop, to be tempted by not only the smell of the enticing foods but the thought of entering such a warm location. (Together they really do make a convincing team).

Fattening foods of Winter:

STARBUCKS HOT CHOCOLATE: 290 cals (and that's without the whipped cream & marshmallows.
HOMEMADE MAC & CHEESE: average serving 420 cals
MINCE PIES: 477 cals (apparently a single mince pie takes a 4 mile walk to burn off).
APPLE CRUMBLE: 345 cals per serving. Crumbs!
ROAST DINNER and all the trimmings: 812 cals per plate. Ouch.

Of course portions all vary and calories will vary accordingly.

'My eyes are bigger than my stomach' 

and I don't know when to stop.

So whether you call it the annoying baby pouch, the food baby, or maybe the Kris Kringle tummy, don't worry yourselves too much. We're all in the same boat. Having a few extra treats or a few less work out sessions might be naughty, but hey, we won't make Santa's naughty list for it.

Here are a quick few tips to help stay in shape this Winter and keep those body blues at bay.

1. Go ice-skating: It burns calories and it's great fun! (Especially when it's outdoors), just make sure to wrap up warm!
2. Move more indoors: Take the stairs, with the cold weather making outdoor activities less appealing, be active indoors. Walk the stairs instead of taking the lift or buy a fitness DVD to exercise in the comfort of your own home. (There really are no excuses).
3. Make home-made hearty soups: The produce that's naturally in season in Winter is your secret weapon for keeping off the pounds. Soups are so yummy and healthy too. Bonus!
4. Lastly, my favourite. Eat a salad to indulge later: Eating healthy meals during the day compensate for that late night stretch into the cookie jar. (I think so, anyway). A balanced diet is a healthy diet and it means you can eat those well earned and craved treats and not worry.

And if you really feel like having a break for a couple of months, then battle the bulge in January. Isn't it everyone's favourite New Year's resolution? 

I'm excited to indulge so I know it'll be mine!

Dear Santa, 

All I want for Christmas is a fat bank account and a skinny body. Let's try not to get the two mixed up like last time.

Love Yaz x

(I've been good, I promise).

7 reasons why Autumn is fabulous

The quarterly sector that comes once annually, is right at our finger tips, yes, we all know what season I'm talking about and I couldn't wish for it to come sooner.
Wishing Summer away is not usually on the horizon for most but when the sun seems to frazzle away (ironically) and cool breezes edge their way back into our lives, its time to welcome Autumn with open (& perhaps covered) arms.

It's the period to pull out that knit you've had for years but that still manages to take a self-assured winning place in your line of Autumn wear, (and I'm really not talking about the one that Nan knitted you for Christmas). Still a distant few months to go before you whack that one out. No one likes an eager beaver now do they!?

Autumn has just got be my favourite season. Say goodbye to pastels as we invite richer shades to the forefront of our fashion. London Fashion Week of course is identified as a front runner for the most diverse and cutting edge designers in the fashion industry and therefore it was easy to detect the trends intended by these designers for the season. We now introduce 'Oxblood red' as the colour of Autumn 14, as it emerges as the perfect 'I want to wear black but not black' shade.

The unattractive termed and brownish earthy undertones of this colour in my opinion shout 'NO' so I've opted for accessories in this shade. (Beautifully polished nails and dark daring lips). 

It's also time to buy your new fashion staple, the new best friend, the 'IT Jacket'. A jacket is the piece of clothing that really is the one part of your wardrobe that stays the same yet follows your changes of outfit everywhere, so we better make it a good one. Contrasting collars are realming the current catwalk trends of Autumn/Winter 2014 as we spy Marc Jacobs, Givenchy and many more rock the bold collar. I have to say this year I tend on actually sticking to my plan to buy a decent, warm and appealing jacket as this seems to be a shopping nightmare for me.

Proposal: Buy a cozy jacket for under £100 in a neutral colour to coordinate with the remainder of my wardrobe.
Deadline: October 15th, a few weeks before Halloween.

My top 7 reasons why Autumn is fabulous.

1. Deliciously yummy warm treats- hearty soups and of course an excuse to have a hot chocolate every evening AND with marshmallows and cream, (they sort of go hand in hand).
2. A brand new Autumn wardrobe- wrap up warm (otherwise known as complex layering), with cozy scarves, hats, gloves and gorgeous boots- those boots really were made for walking.
3. Cold crisp mornings and Autumn walks- there really isn't anything more refreshing than to wake up to that crisp air and what a surprisingly invigorating hangover cure!
4. The most festive season of the year- Autumn brings two of the most exciting festive gatherings in the space of one week. Halloween and Bonfire night! Need I say more...
5. Wood fires and candles- there's nothing more inviting that flickering flames in the mist of the cold weather. 
6. Conker competitions- not only intended for kids! Although most can picture the exciting times searching for the best conkers for competitions as a distant memory, your inner child is screaming to venture out again, so give it a go!
7. And lastly...the weirdly satisfying feeling and sound of walking on fallen Autumn leaves- and for those daring devils out there, a perfect opportunity to delve into them. 

I welcome Autumn with open arms and look forward to purchasing my new wardrobe and necessarily, my IT jacket.

Lots of love from apologetic Summer. (There's nothing worse than feeling in between seasons).

Old age catching up

Can you imagine the world without technology?

Where relax time consisted of story books and jigsaw puzzles instead of television and laptops?

I for one believe it to be sad that childhood as we know it now is technology obsessed and where a brand new bicycle and a kitten were at the top of my Christmas list only 10 years ago, iPads, iPods, iPhones and iMacs have completely taken over. Yes Apple is the new trend and not one that will wear off any time soon I don't think.

"And of course a kitten is for life, not just for Christmas"

This seemed to be the perfect topic to write about as during the last few weeks I've had time to dwell on it. 'Once you go smart, you never change the chart'. (Scary thought- how dependent a girl can be on what appears to be just a pretty looking 'slab' with a protective cover).

3 weeks ago:
Losing your phone or even worse, losing your bag, is a nightmare. The next morning composed of the cancellation of cards, ringing the taxi company, asking friends to look around and of course the realisation that perhaps my phone was actually gone, a five pound note anddd my ID.  (but hey I could have really done with changing my ID photograph anyway).

Every cloud has a silver lining

For the few weeks that my insurance claim was in action, I waited patiently (or not) for the arrival of my replacement iPhone. The process was not a light one I can assure you, insurance companies really make you work for what is rightfully yours. In this time I used my Mum's old blackberry. Adjusting to texting on the black brick, sorry blackberry was something I initially screamed at. Was it my fat fingers that couldn't adjust to the minuscule buttons that made my sentences brimming with full stops?

I laugh now as I exemplify: Hey, I lost my.phone last night and. now using. this it's not been.foun.anywhere. 

I'm happy to say I am now content with my recently delivered smart phone, which is truly 'smarter' than all of my friends, (I kid). It is scary however, how technology is becoming so clever. Only yesterday did I watch a video that explained the new Facebook Messenger app, as the new 'Big Brother device'. Of course I immediately deleted it. Nothing seems more intrusive than technology that can inevitably 'eye spy' on your family. Watch below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaKq46Z0eh4 (there are many more Youtube videos on this dispute).

Our grand-parents are now catching up with the current times can we not all agree?. In the words of my own Nana. "It seems that we can't escape from it so we may as well jump on the bandwagon".

My Nana and Papa, (Nannykins & Pups as I like to call them) came to visit a few days ago. My Papa brought along his fairly recent new toy, his Ipad which has replaced his newspapers and daily cross word puzzles as he now likes to go on Facebook, look at his emails, play online puzzles and... (which I found hysterical) take selfies with 'Photobooth'. Alien and Chipmunk I liked best and which made his goggle glasses look even funnier.

My Sister and I on her new MacBook Air  #aliensisters

But to my amusement, my Nana felt she too needed one of these technical devices so on her recent visit, brought along her very own 'Mini iPad' which she adores because she can fit it in her handbag. Contrary to my Papa who has quite a few apps installed. (Thanks to my sister and I), Nana likes to use her iPad as a camera. (Not exactly what it's designed for, but we'll let her off). She brought it to our family dinner at a restaurant and admits she bought it because she likes the way she can slide her fingers to scroll the photos.

They may be catching up but sadly, hilariously, they still haven't quite got it yet. My Papa's managed to add my friend's friend, my sister's travelling friend's Mum on Facebook and 'like' copious comments that are in no way directed at him. But it's okay, at least they're trying.

Technology is constantly progressing and I'm just terrified that Robots will actually take over from humans.

Thought of the day.

SOS Save Our Skin

There are a range of skin types; normal, oily, dry, sensitive and combination skin which is merely a 'combination' of all. (for the greedy ones out there). Which one are you?

A good skin care regime is essential to making your skin feel fresh, look youthful and appear flawless. Here are some of the products I am using at the moment.

A face wash for when I shower, face wipes to remove make-up, refreshing pads for every morning and a good moisturiser for after all three! 

GARNIER FACE WASH- Garnier PureActive, fruit energy, daily energising gel scrub. I love this one as the grapefruit and pomegranate scent is truly revitalizing. (fresh and zingy). I always go for a face wash which contains little beads in which I feel really work to scrub off that unwanted dirt!

FACEWIPES- As you can see at the moment I have 'dirty works' facewipes which they describe as good clean fun, (catchy) but I was swayed into the marketing of this product and ofcourse it's retail price of only £2! But do you see the resemblance to Soap and Glory!? I was definitely fooled, clever, and it worked. 

 

The almost duplication is sneaky, yet ingenious! Being a solid lover of Soap and Glory's body and bath products I felt a slight annoyance due to my loyalty to the 'original', but look, I bought the face-wipes, I fell for the trap, so really, a big well done to them. I wouldn't buy these face wipes again though as they are really dry and tag on the skin when removing make up. 

CLEARASIL REFRESHING PADS- Clearasil daily clear Superfruits Refreshing Pads with raspberry and cranberry extracts are my favourite part of my skin care routine. I use them every morning and sometimes in the evenings after using a facewipe, (when you feel the face wipe didn't quite get the 10 thick layers of grub off your face). You'll know these pads work when you look down to see that they are no longer white but black in colour! Yuck! but impressive.... They exfoliate and cleanse your skin with the rigid texture of the pad and they are extremely moist which is a luxury!

Not my dirt...I promise

Lastly, a brilliant moisturiser. I chop and change. I used to use Johnsons but at the moment I have..

GARNIER FACE MOISTURISER- Garnier essentials hydrating day care cream. It has a velvety smooth texture and slides on wonderfully. (I hate that tight, feel like you've just gone through lots of botox, kind of feel) so I use moisturiser after washing my face no matter what. 

So whatever products you use, make sure you stick to your skin care regime, you'll only have yourself to answer for when you're old and wrinkly. (hey, that's mean)..but it is true. A moisturiser is a God send and you only get given one face, protect it wisely. :)

Love, confessions of a beauty-holic x

What's in YOUR make up bag?

A look inside my make up bag

My make up bag is small. I fit everything I could possibly need into a 20cm by 12cm gold zip up case. (except the eye shadow box set, that's an added, vital requirement).

CLINIQUE FOUNDATION- Clinique's superbalanced foundation, glass bottle, in shade 27, Alabaster. This is actually the lightest shade and I couldn't believe when this was the right tone for my olive, tanned complexion. As an oil-free, 100% fragrance free foundation, this is a perfect choice for my oily prone skin. I also love the fact that it doesn't have a potent smell. Much preferred to previous foundations such as the Mac products, which to me, resemble the scent of wet clay. (and it's applied to your face, there's no running away from the scent of your foundation!).

MAC CONCEALER- Mac's studio finish concealer, in shade NC20. This is my absolute favourite beauty product and I could not live without it. It comes in a petite, plastic tub, making it especially easy to carry. (perfect for holidays, weekend getaways and that occasional over-night stay). The one huge problem I suffer with is those dreaded black bags under my eyes and with the smallest amount, (less is really more) the bruised looking areas are miraculously disguised. Now, where's that tired bunny gone? I was told by a very helpful beauty artist at the Mac counter that for my complexion, which apparently holds yellow undertones, to go for a 'C' shade, unlike the red under-toned concealer which is better for paler skin and is defined with a 'W'. A further benefit of this concealer is its built in sun protection, SPF 35! (to stop those enemy rays from ageing skin faster than life intends it to).


COLLECTION SHEER LOOSE POWDER- Collection's sheer loose powder in shade 2, translucent. Now, this, I am a religious and very loyal customer of. There is literally no swaying me into the expensive, alternative brands. If a cheap loose powder does the job, then why budge!? At a retail price of under a fiver, to me, this powder shouts out 'bargain beauty must have'! If setting your foundation and creating that matte look is what your after, head to Superdrug now. It's perfection in the Summer when you try to hide that sweaty sheen, which you can sometimes just about get away with calling a 'dewy glow', but not always the look you had in mind. I would recommend this product as it does everything a loose powder claims to do and at a very good price!

MAC BLUSHER- Mac sheer tone shimmer blush in sunbasque. With an impeccable range of shades to choose from, this is the one that takes my fancy at the moment. The deeper shade of pink (almost leaning towards the brown, bronzed scale of the spectrum) makes for a desired merge between bronzer and blusher. But I'm open to lots of the shades, mix it up, why not.

BRUSHES: Body shop blusher brush. All you need to do is head into your nearest body shop and have a feel of those brushes to know the quality of them. (Not to look like a weirdo or anything, but test them all on your face, its surprisingly satisfying). Try not to buy the whole shop though, I know its tempting. All I have is my one trusted blusher brush which I use for bronzer, blusher and my loose powder!
My miniature brush. This one, ladies, was a freebie! Yes, that's right. Head to Bare Essentials, they give you testers and they come with a small brush. They are bloody brilliant! I use mine to apply my loose powder under my eyes, on top of my concealer. (the hard to reach places). Although, at this moment in time, my make up bag doesn't contain anything from Bare Essentials, I am definitely a fan. (next time I won't rush out that door so quickly with my freebies so I can maybe, actually find my next make up bag necessity).

LIPSTICKS- Revlon super lustrious lipstick in shade 477, black cherry. (Everyone needs that slightly gothic hue, a sultry pop of colour. Mac lipstick in A33, lustre syrup, a truly subtle tinge, suitable for daytime and work! Rimmel lasting finish lipstick in rouge 214 firecracker (this beauty really is a fire cracker, show stoppingly gorgeous coral red, devil lips to die for), I am just very careful to tone down any other make up. I stick to eyes or lips. I never do both. Collection lasting colour lipstick in shade 8, sweet tart, my latest buy (in actual fact I bought it today and I'm excited to try this bright, barbie doll, pink colour).

MASCARA- Soap and Glory's thick and fast mascara. Not a fan, I'm sad to say. As an award winning mascara and of a brand I am in awe with, I was excited to purchase my first mascara, only to find I had to apply a copious amount of layers to get my desired look. I'll stick to Rimmel or Bourjois next time! Soap & Glory will forever be one of my favourite beauty brands (I love the moisturisers and body washes but perhaps this mascara was just not the one for me).

HIGHLIGHTERS & EYE SHADOWS- I just love my little sets. Benefit's world famous neutrals eye-shadow kit, with the most glamorous nudes ever. Nude eyes with black mascara and black eyeliner is my favoured look. Benefit's posie tint, sun beam and cha cha tint make up set is what Benefit calls the cheeky treats for a pop of colour and a gorgeous glow. (They certainly make you glow, I'll have you know). Benefit watts up soft focus highlighter. A great essential for that wanted glisten but press softly as I found it takes a lot of blending to look oh so natural.

EYEBROW PENCIL & EYELINER- L'Oreal super liner brow pencil in 03 brunette. (A great brow shapes the entire face).
Kiko vibrant eye liner crayon in jet black. I'm open to most eyeliners but I adore the way this slides on rather than some that have that chalky, jaggered effect. (You know, the ones that pull on your delicate eye lids and ouch!...we don't want that happening).

What's in YOUR make up bag?

Yours truly...

Domestic Violence

In contrast with a world, which is continuously progressing, domestic violence in Great Britain remains a constant presence. Figures reveal that in 2012 ‘13,500 people, 80% of them women – reported domestic violence to Citizens Advice’ (Topping, A, 2012). It is clear that domestic violence cases are disturbingly high. The findings show a significant proportion of society affected and this demands attention. The Government are acknowledging that domestic abuse is not so simplistic. Modifying the law for domestic abuse will “help expose the true face of domestic violence, which is much more complex and much more widespread than people often realise” (Clegg in Barrett, Johnson, 2012). This suggests that people are unaware of its true magnitude. Domestic violence is wide reaching, therefore support is crucial for its victims. This blog post will explore whether ‘more support for domestic violence will encourage victims to come forward’.

The Government defines domestic violence as

"any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality"

 (NHS Barking, I and Dagenham, 2013)

As the definition derives from a governing body, it can be seen as valuable. Collating facts and statistics on a variety of areas and utilising expertise to make informed decisions could prove government agencies to be a valued source of information.

In contradiction, the Home Offices’ expansion of the definition of domestic violence, implemented from March 2013, illustrates the definition to be one which is flawed. The Home Office concluded that the definition should ‘be widened to include psychological intimidation, controlling behaviour and victims under 18 (Branch, 2012). This change shows dedication to responding to the issue of domestic violence. By expanding the definition to include victims under 18, it indicates that cases are existent in this age group, further demonstrating how wide reaching the problem is. The definition change shows the government have reacted and taken necessary action.

A pilot scheme, Clare’s Law, has also been instigated following the murder of Clare Wood, killed at the hands of her former partner. Starting in September 2012 ‘a year -long trial will commence, giving the public the "right to ask" for information in Greater Manchester, Nottinghamshire, Wiltshire and Gwent’ (Home Office in BBC News, 2012).

This law gives the right to request information from the police about a partner’s past. Consequently it could reveal a domestic violence history and the regulations under this scheme stipulate that police provide these details. The scheme indicates a critical turning point; a key to combatting domestic violence and preventing cases which could result in tragedy. Clare’s Law however, was not deemed an entirely successful proposal, bringing uncertainty and criticism to the scene as well. Domestic violence campaign group Refuge attacked the scheme saying ‘it will do little to protect victims’ (BBC News, 2012), declaring it to be ‘unnecessary and warned the costs of setting it up could outweigh the benefits’ (Millard, 2012). This suggests that Refuge believe the investment could be used alternatively to tackle domestic violence, potentially resulting in a more successful outcome. As with all changes to law, controversy is only to be expected but it can be beneficial to form a basis for discussion. It could ultimately result in finding alternative methods to reduce domestic violence.

Clare's Law- Youtube (2012)

As Refuge is an established and reputable support group which ‘has grown to become the country’s largest single provider of specialist domestic violence services’, (Refuge, 2009) their opinion is significantly trusted. An impact assessment shows that ‘at best the scheme will only result in an annual reduction of a half per cent in domestic violence" (Government Impact assessment in The Telegraph, 2012). Such an insignificant change to statistical figures indicates that the scheme holds a lack of significant purpose. However half a per cent is still a decrease and although it illustrates that the scheme will have little effect, any effect is a positive outcome. On the other hand the scheme is very new therefore its future impact will be hard to determine. Furthermore as an assessment is merely a prediction, the statistics could prove incorrect.  Additionally “the reality is that most perpetrators are not known to the police” (Horley in BBC News, 2012). It is questionable then, why introduce a scheme, which can be criticised to such great extent? As reflected earlier, it was established from a domestic violence murder case. As the perpetrator had a recorded violent history, it can be argued that if the scheme was in place at the time and the victim suspected this, it could have prevented such a tragic ending. “I believe that if my daughter had known of the past of her partner she would have dropped him like a hot brick and scampered out of there” (Brown in BBC News, 2012). 
The scheme would enable suspicion of a partner’s violent past to be revealed and crucially prevent victims from potential danger. This scheme relies essentially on police officers to take appropriate actions in order to protect victims and record complaints. The problem with this is placing the burden on officers; it could result in the risk of victims receiving unreliable details as not all cases of violence are recorded.  The extent of disapproval regarding Clare’s Law suggests it is not the support victims fundamentally require. A better approach to supporting domestic violence victims could be through the use of the media, which could prove effective.

Justin Lee Collins- Celebrity case

The media has the power to bring undetected issues to the spotlight.  When Anna Larke reported her partner and television presenter Justin Lee Collins for abuse last October, this conveyed a new perception of domestic violence (Hoyle, 2013, p69). ‘Larke told the court that she felt that she had been "brainwashed" by Collins’ (Westcott, 2012). The issue of emotional domestic violence was brought to the public eye. This new perception of domestic violence proved that abuse is not merely physical as conventionally believed.

Anna Larke's domestic abuse recording- LISTEN!

             
This case was a powerful and influential instigator, giving reason for a change to the definition of abuse (Westcott, 2012).  Figures which support this were published in the British crime survey. ‘Of the six per cent of women who were victims of domestic abuse, 57 per cent suffered emotional abuse compared to 27 per cent who sustained physical injuries’ (Hoyle, 2013, p. 69). This identifies the extreme presence of emotional abuse and challenges the conventional view that domestic violence is purely physical. This article highlights whether without such a high profile court case; would the effects of verbal domestic abuse have been brought to the public’s attention? It certainly illustrates the power of celebrity status.

This article has one single purpose; to show that people can now prosecute perpetrators for emotional abuse.

 “Emotional abuse is difficult to spot and can be more harmful than the physical kind. The victim often feels that because there is no visible evidence nobody will believe her, so it can go undetected for longer”

(Williamson in Hoyle, 2013, p.69) 

This illustrates the challenge victims of emotional abuse face.  Dr Williamson from Bristol University’s Centre for Gender and Violence Research specialises in domestic abuse therefore qualifying her knowledge on the subject. However her statement is stereotypical; immediately suggesting that the victim will be female. With use of the noun ‘her’, it is noticeable that this statement places emphasis on women being victims of abuse and presents a biased opinion. This results in the subjective message that only women experience abuse. The effect of this could counteract the purpose of the article by proposing that only women should report cases of emotional abuse or portraying the idea that men perhaps do not experience it.  Domestic abuse affects men too and this can be supported by statistics, which state that ‘one in six men and one in four women will suffer “domestic abuse” in their lifetime,’ (Mankind Initiative in Esteem Men, 2012).

An important aspect raised by Hoyle to consider is the claim that a new legislation has been introduced. This source deems untrustworthy where it states that ‘a new legislation and a high profile court case is hoped to encourage more victims to come forward’ (Hoyle, 2013, p. 69). The legislation for domestic abuse has not in fact changed; it is the definition of domestic abuse, which has been expanded. In an interview (Hough March 2013) it is discovered that ‘there is no change to the legislation, there has only been a change to the definition of abuse’ therefore the article is misleading and provides a deceptive influence.

              This article makes it apparent that emotional abuse is domestic violence and although it challenges certain assumptions, it proves that representations of domestic violence in the media can inform the public of the truth. In a similar way, same-sex domestic abuse has not always been at the forefront of the media but bringing the concept to the spotlight could influence public awareness of the scope of the problem. This could effectively provide an enhanced understanding and result in further cases being reported. 

A continuous story line in soap opera Hollyoaks where character Brendan Brady physically and emotionally abuses partner Steven Hay challenges a widely accepted perception that domestic abuse is inflicted on a woman by a man. Abuse present within a same sex relationship presents the public with a new dimension of domestic abuse.  ‘Same-sex domestic violence also challenges our highly gendered and heteronormative understanding of domestic violence because it cannot be explained by reference to gender difference, the historical suppression of women, or the private nature of family violence’ (Knauer, 1999, pp. 325-350). Domestic violence has been correlated with causalities such as gender difference; therefore domestic violence in same-sex relationships cannot be explained. Contradiction of this theory results in ambiguity and challenges general attitudes towards abuse.                  
Nevertheless challenging general attitudes positively teaches society and reinforces how deeply rooted domestic violence really is.  However, a soap opera is a fictional source and although a useful approach to illustrate public issues, how effective is it? It proves effective as Hollyoaks reaches a very large target audience, with ‘the show attracting an average of 3 million viewers per week’ (Tv.com, 2013), revealing its message to millions. Conversely Hollyoaks’ main target audience is ‘young teens and early twenties’ (Internet Movie Database, 2013) which could affect the value of the storyline as older generations are not likely to see such a message.  On the other hand, it is warning young viewers of the effects of domestic violence and an understanding at an early age could prevent future cases.

             Necessary action must be taken as domestic abuse is increasing at a distressing rate. This can be supported by statistics which show that ‘cases of domestic violence have risen by 35 per cent in a year’ (British Crime Survey, 2011). However these figures may not signify a true representation of domestic abuse, as many victims do not report it. Potentially the figures are much higher. Research shows that ‘65% of women who experience domestic violence keep it hidden’ (Harris, 2012) proving the former statistics to be deceitful.

Popular blogger and makeup artist Lauren Luke features in a tutorial video ‘Don’t cover it up’ (Refuge in YouTube 2012) demonstrating how women conceal their abuse when they are too ashamed to come forward. The campaign video by Refuge is a powerful format for influencing and targeting teenage girls and young women, where ‘domestic violence is alarmingly common’ (Refuge, 2013).  Lauren can be credited for her ability to promote Refuge successfully. This can be reflected through the impact of the video, which shows that it was ‘viewed by over 1 million people in the weeks following its launch in July 2012,’ (Refuge, 2013). The impact shows that power and popularity in the media can be an influential tool in portraying an important message. Although tactical, it has been proven effective and successful. ‘In the first 48 hours following the launch, the Refuge website received the same number of unique visitors as it usually receives in two weeks’ (Refuge, 2013).

A beauty obsessed world

The word makeup in itself suggests that wearing it will 'make you up'. Cosmetics in the Oxford dictionaries defines it as preparation applied to the body, especially the face, to improve its appearance and therefore it has remained that a girl's best friend (other than diamonds of course) is her make up set.

Beauty is a controversial topic, a mind boggling debate about whether the world is becoming purely materialistic and how the celebs in the magazines reflect the ideal image of beauty. Consumers are faced with these ideals daily and look up to these celebrities as role models but even the models in the magazines don't look like the models in the magazines.
Photoshop is a BITCH and distorts reality ladies.

Don't we all wish we could have our photos airbrushed before posting them onto social media. Magic. Instantly hiding that massive pimple that literally just appeared over night or camouflaging those black bags (actual bin liners) under our eyes. But we don't, we have make up, hallelujah! (I'm also a massive fan and religious user of instagram filters, absolute last-minute lifesaver!)

Even Katy Perry doesn't naturally look like herself.

Since the average women spends 55 minutes per day 'playing with her face', (that's equivalent to two whole weeks out of a year), I proposed to write about the journey of cosmetics and how it helped us reach this absolute fascination with enhancing one's natural beauty and expressing one's youth, an even and flawless complexion is a young and youthful appearance. Every woman's dream.

So let's take a look back in history. A virtual time machine.

Have you ever wondered why a rose tint applied to the flesh of your cheek is something of a trend? one that simply does not grow out...

Around 3000 BCE, Greek women started applying red berries to their faces. Why, you ask? Studies have shown that women's faces are more attractive around ovulation, in their most fertile state. The hormonal change actually enhances blood flow under the skins surface and voila, results in that rosey flushed look. The increased blood flow leads to pinker cheeks and redder lips (hence lippy). Men see this as attractive and a natural sign of fertility, but since when did we start listening to what men wanted ey?!

Words of Gretchen Weiner- Mean Girls

Blusher: So fetch, stop trying to make it happen, it's not going to happen. But it did and it stayed.

Of course there are contradictions which imply that no make up is prettier but would you dare to go bare?  I'm sure the majority of you have heard your parents, grandparents, boyfriends, husbands, say you look better without makeup. My theory is that there is a huge fat line between enhancing your features and plastering a mask and attaching five sets of lashes to your eyes. Minimal is the key.

I remember about almost ten years ago when foundation lips were a thing and I have to admit I was extremely loyal to this trend. (even to the point of obsession). After eating and drinking i'd adjust my patchy pale lips which had worn off. Vanity at its finest.

You wouldn't think that society's obsession with tanning began in the 1920's. Many tanning products were invented by the 1930's to darken one's skin without use of the sun and to us now, a sun kissed glow inevitably represents beauty and health! (Oompa loompa shades are another story but I'm sure we've all experienced an accidental tanning over dose. I know I have!).

Oops

However centuries back, paler skin symbolised beauty, status and social rank. Japanese Geishas painted their skin white and the Chinese ground pearls from seashells and swallowed them to lighten their skin. Lighter skin also represented social hierarchy in England where the working class were tanned due to working in the sun. How time changes everything! (I honestly wouldn't step foot outside on the first day of summer without my trusty St Moriz on).

Japanese Geisha

The beauty industry is forever growing and no matter where it began and the trends that have brought us to today, we will always be sucked into this vacuum of what 'true beauty' is claimed to be. The beauty industry has sculpted the perfect woman as if she were clay. 'A thin physique, a flawless complexion and a symmetrical face'. What poses these ideals are the airbrushed models and celebrities that pitch the latest and best beauty products. It's got to be said though, would you buy a product exhibited by a spotty faced, greasy haired, missing toothed, un-plucked eyebrowed  lady who proposes that this particular product will make you beautiful? You wouldn't, would you?

So there you have it. The beauty industry makes billions, thriving on public perception and what their audience visualizes as perfect.

3 day Barcelona buzz

DAY 1

#buzzingforbarca

6am Thursday 13th March. BEEP BEEP BEEP zzzzz

Scheduled flights are one of the solitary times it isn't an utter nightmare to hear that dreaded phone clock alarm waking you up at an inappropriate time in the morning. On this occasion it is acceptable as we scream, "It's Barcelona time!!!!!"  BUZZING.

So we are in the car, excitedly driving ourselves to Stansted Airport, dancing and singing to Ed's playlist, until the Jungle Book comes on. This moment was the re-birth of my well and truly hand-kept secret childhood name of MOWGLI, (you know the little tanned kid, BOY I might add, with a little dark haired bob, wearing nothing but his bright yellow speedos). Yes. I looked like him. I looked like a boy and IF I can find a picture I will post it right next to the cartoon image so you can see the resemblance. We'll call it 'spot the difference'.

Jungle Book- Mowgli looking happy

Us excited little munchkins head straight to Spoons, as ya do. Wetherspoons being the long winded way of stating such a significant place, for those of you who have skipped just life in general.

So we're 'popping bottles like G6's'. Champers though, we are sophisticated. Well...cava, we aren't rich. Barcelona to save up for you know.

We arrive at Reus, sunshine streaming, cameras at the ready, and we've got Ed and Alice gymastically stretching as we await the unknown time of a bus (which of course failed to show up), just our luck. Yes, the trip from the airport to the hotel was not completely mapped out. But we're okay, lying on the pavement in the sunshine, pondering our next steps. "Are we ever going to get there", we say.

We arrive at the hotel, fling our luggage (the one tiny suitcase we had each to squash all our essentials in). Don't worry though, we all looked great, every day, great packing kids. We head off to find dinner. We must have located about five different places, to find them either closed or 'not exactly what we fancied'. However, this landed ourselves in a fantastic little tapas bar. The food was delicious. Oysters & gorgeous vegetable side plates were dished out. Maddi and Cornish bought a portion each of tomato bread, only later to find that both portions came on one plate and Maddi had gobbled up the both of them haha. (Secret ploy of the restaurant's, if you ask me).

Quick stroll around Barca, see what we're dealing with, fountains, buildings, restaurants, of course it's all beautiful! It's about 7pm. (If this was England we'd be dressed for a night out already, completely different vibe, heart Spanish life).

So it's now time to snazz up for a night out in the city.

Pre-drinks in our hotel room involved banners and balloons for a little belated treat for Jen Jen, photos were taken, pretty ones, to avoid those disappointing ones, the ones you'll pose for later, only to regret them the following morning. (We've all done it.) Tongues out, ducks pouts at the ready, bum this, boobs that, I whip my hair back and forth, HASHTAG girls night.

If only our duck pouts made us look like Megan Fox...

but the reality is somewhat different....

Talking of hash tags brings me to my next point. 7 of us. 3 smokers, 4 non smokers.

So basically there was a #faglife and #slaglife involved, with accompanying relevant poses. But funny little Ed for a while thought it was STAGlife and not SLAGlife and he'd also made up his own little pose to go with it, he only realised it was different when laughing away we asked 'what you doing?'. Can you picture him? I'm laughing as I do. I am pleased to say STAGLIFE stuck.

#wedon'tcare

So in Barcelona we got lucky, free champagne in clubs, great sparklers and this went along with a cracking good time.

I remember the moment Cornish was standing in the middle of the dance floor, puppy dog eyes, looking like a drowned rat, no metaphor here, drenched in a literal sense. A man had literally thrown  a drink all over her. (Is he joking!? What has the world come to). We asked attentively if she was alright, staring at her soaked hair....onward and upward.

This club was called SHOKO, which became a regular visit for us.

Me and Rachel, Ray Ray, 'the sassy fox', (she does a dance). And our South African friend....We'll name him Bob.

Too much to write and just far too little space. Day 1 was JUST the start.