almost adulting
arden rose
book
book blogger
books
life
lifestyle
reading
Drawn in by the creativity and relatability of the announcement video, and the cute illustrations on the cover, I decided to get myself a copy of Almost Adulting by Arden Rose. I've got to say, this book has pleasantly surprised me. It was a very easy read and I could hear Arden's voice in her writing, which I really loved.
The book is split into short chapters, and there are illustrations throughout, making it easy on the eyes and a more enjoyable read.
I ended up reading the entire book in one day, it's quite short at just 196 pages, and the carefree tone made it perfect for a bit of Sunday afternoon reading. However, I can imagine this book being pretty easy to dip in and out of if that's how you prefer to approach your reading.
The book is aimed a those in their 20s, where you're technically classed as an adult, but also don't have clue how to be an adult, it other words, I felt like this book was written with me, at this stage of my life in mind.
The book covers many topics - from long-distance relationships, styling your living space, mental health and sex.
Throughout the book, Arden is very honest about all of her experiences, and I think sometimes, it just refreshing and reassuring to hear someone being truthful. The book pushes and breaks the stigma surrounding mental health, online dating and masturbation as Arden approaches the subjects in such an honest and to the point, yet eloquent way. I loved the way Arden fearlessly spoke the truth, and let young people know, there is no shame in pulling out your hair, or not feeling ok, and having a wank every now and then (lol). Something's which we often are ashamed of ourselves for growing up. We have enough to figure out in this stage of our lives, we need to know that it's okay to not always feel okay, and to not be as perfect as everyone expects.
The book had the perfect balance between discussing more important, somewhat serious topics, yet giving them a lighthearted edge to them. It didn't feel at all heavy to read - if anything the opposite, but still, some things discussed 'real' concerns we face as we blindly enter adulthood.
I found this book very honest, and open, yet funny light-hearted and relatable - I'll strongly recommend it.
Almost Adulting by Arden Rose.
Monday 29 May 2017
Drawn in by the creativity and relatability of the announcement video, and the cute illustrations on the cover, I decided to get myself a copy of Almost Adulting by Arden Rose. I've got to say, this book has pleasantly surprised me. It was a very easy read and I could hear Arden's voice in her writing, which I really loved.
The book is split into short chapters, and there are illustrations throughout, making it easy on the eyes and a more enjoyable read.
I ended up reading the entire book in one day, it's quite short at just 196 pages, and the carefree tone made it perfect for a bit of Sunday afternoon reading. However, I can imagine this book being pretty easy to dip in and out of if that's how you prefer to approach your reading.
The book is aimed a those in their 20s, where you're technically classed as an adult, but also don't have clue how to be an adult, it other words, I felt like this book was written with me, at this stage of my life in mind.
The book covers many topics - from long-distance relationships, styling your living space, mental health and sex.
Throughout the book, Arden is very honest about all of her experiences, and I think sometimes, it just refreshing and reassuring to hear someone being truthful. The book pushes and breaks the stigma surrounding mental health, online dating and masturbation as Arden approaches the subjects in such an honest and to the point, yet eloquent way. I loved the way Arden fearlessly spoke the truth, and let young people know, there is no shame in pulling out your hair, or not feeling ok, and having a wank every now and then (lol). Something's which we often are ashamed of ourselves for growing up. We have enough to figure out in this stage of our lives, we need to know that it's okay to not always feel okay, and to not be as perfect as everyone expects.
The book had the perfect balance between discussing more important, somewhat serious topics, yet giving them a lighthearted edge to them. It didn't feel at all heavy to read - if anything the opposite, but still, some things discussed 'real' concerns we face as we blindly enter adulthood.
I found this book very honest, and open, yet funny light-hearted and relatable - I'll strongly recommend it.
cake
charly cox
day out
estee lalonde
family
fashion
lifestyle
lily pebbles
london
poetry
portobello road
tea
Portobello Road and Poetry.
Thursday 25 May 2017
I recently spent the day in London with my Mum. I wanted to go to poetry reading which was on Portobello Road, so Mum and I decided it was the perfect excuse to have a bit of a day trip and spend some time together.
We started with a coffee and cake from Artisan Bakery - I had a blueberry muffin, and I can safely say it was the nicest muffin I have ever eaten, and I'm not even big fan of blueberries.
It was nice to have a little wander along and appreciate the market and pastel colour houses. I was hoping for some better shops along there, but I had a great day, so I can't complain.
We stopped in The Duke of Wellington a little later for some food. I opted for an open goats cheese and pepper sandwich, which was delicious. To go with this a had a cup of tea because you can't go wrong with a cuppa!
In the evening we arrived at The Gin Distillery and had a drink. I then headed upstairs to the poetry night. Mum did come in with me, as poetry doesn't interest her. I felt a little nervous going in alone, but I love Charly Cox who was performing her poetry so I decided I wasn't going to let my anxiety stop me doing something which I want to do.
When I arrived, Charly knew I was going alone, and kindly found me some other lovely girls who also went alone, so we all sat together. I had a fab night. Charly's poetry reading was great. She explained why she has written the poem which she read which I found really interesting, and of course, she has a wonderful way with words. I felt very inspired!
When I arrived, Charly knew I was going alone, and kindly found me some other lovely girls who also went alone, so we all sat together. I had a fab night. Charly's poetry reading was great. She explained why she has written the poem which she read which I found really interesting, and of course, she has a wonderful way with words. I felt very inspired!
Everyone was really welcoming and lovely, although I went alone I managed to get chatting to a few people. I was very happy to meet Estee Lalonde and Lily Pebbles after watching them for years. Of course, I loved meeting Charly, I think I am possibly her biggest internet stalker - but she is also so so lovely IRL, and she seemed pleased to meet me too which is always nice.
All-round I have a great day, I did vlog, so that will be up on my Youtube Chanel soon enough. It nice to explore London every now and then!
beauty
bourjois
favourites
kevyn aucion
loves
make up
new
surratt
After a little trialling, I've found my three most recent beauty buys, have all been very successful ones. I've fallen in love with each of these products, and have I am loving having them incorporated into my everyday routine, so naturally, I thought I'd share them with you.
Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara (£22.50) - I know this did get a mention in my favourites video, but I just couldn't bring myself to leave it out of this post. I'm so happy with this mascara discovery. It does the job, and does not smudge - not even a tiny bit! I find it's pretty lengthening on my lashes and I really like using the small wand, which has surprised me, I always tend to go for a more chunky wand. It's super easy to remove, you simply use a damp cotton wool pad, which I know is pretty bizarre, and it comes off it looked like rubbery chunks, even more bizarre - but it all comes off, I mean, all of it, no more rubbing your eyes sore to get off the stubborn last bit of mascara that will end up on your pillowcase, no matter the amount of makeup remover used. And can I just say once, again, it does not smudge! Plus my lash looks great, not all at clumpy and with plenty of volumes.
Surratt Relevee Lash Curler - I have had my eyes on these for such a long time. I've heard so many good things about them - in fact, I think they're one of the only pairs of eyelash curlers I've heard anyone talk about. So when I'd come to terms with the fact that mine had had their day, I decided to splash out on the Surratt curlers. Firstly, they came in beautiful packaging - I know that says nothing about how the products work, but it's nice to know you get luxury when you spend on something. And as for the lash curlers, they're great. Firstly they're matte black which just makes them a little sleeker looking, and most importantly, they bloody do a good job. I have very short straight lashes, but I have issue clamping all of my lashes in these, they're comfortable whilst in use, and they really grab every eyelash - unlike many lash curlers which seem to get the outer lashes but leave the rest to do their own thing, this eyelash curler just seems to be the right shape to gently clamp them all and make them look so so much longer and with a great curl.
Bourjois Healthy Mix Concealer (£7.99) - From high end to the high street - when I ran out of concealer I decided to pick up the Bourjois one, mainly because it's inexpensive, the packaging's cute (I know, I know) I wouldn't say I exactly had high hopes, it was just something to get me through until I wanted to spend a little more on a concealer - however, there is no need, I will definitely be repurchasing this one. I love the formula. It's got a medium/high coverage, but it doesn't look at all cakey and isn't drying in the slightest. It's easy to apply, and it's super brightening and does a great job covering blemishes, so it's an all-rounder. I have the shade 51 light, which works for me, but I would say is slightly more yellow than I'd like, but it's nothing too drastic, as long as it's blended properly, that's not too much of an issue. The shade range is quite small but other than that I have a lot of love for this concealer!
Have you tried any of these out?
3 New Beauty Loves.
Tuesday 9 May 2017
After a little trialling, I've found my three most recent beauty buys, have all been very successful ones. I've fallen in love with each of these products, and have I am loving having them incorporated into my everyday routine, so naturally, I thought I'd share them with you.
Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara (£22.50) - I know this did get a mention in my favourites video, but I just couldn't bring myself to leave it out of this post. I'm so happy with this mascara discovery. It does the job, and does not smudge - not even a tiny bit! I find it's pretty lengthening on my lashes and I really like using the small wand, which has surprised me, I always tend to go for a more chunky wand. It's super easy to remove, you simply use a damp cotton wool pad, which I know is pretty bizarre, and it comes off it looked like rubbery chunks, even more bizarre - but it all comes off, I mean, all of it, no more rubbing your eyes sore to get off the stubborn last bit of mascara that will end up on your pillowcase, no matter the amount of makeup remover used. And can I just say once, again, it does not smudge! Plus my lash looks great, not all at clumpy and with plenty of volumes.
Surratt Relevee Lash Curler - I have had my eyes on these for such a long time. I've heard so many good things about them - in fact, I think they're one of the only pairs of eyelash curlers I've heard anyone talk about. So when I'd come to terms with the fact that mine had had their day, I decided to splash out on the Surratt curlers. Firstly, they came in beautiful packaging - I know that says nothing about how the products work, but it's nice to know you get luxury when you spend on something. And as for the lash curlers, they're great. Firstly they're matte black which just makes them a little sleeker looking, and most importantly, they bloody do a good job. I have very short straight lashes, but I have issue clamping all of my lashes in these, they're comfortable whilst in use, and they really grab every eyelash - unlike many lash curlers which seem to get the outer lashes but leave the rest to do their own thing, this eyelash curler just seems to be the right shape to gently clamp them all and make them look so so much longer and with a great curl.
Have you tried any of these out?
fashion
flowers
jumper
knit
ootd
pink
spring
style
urban outfitters
Pink Knit and Spring Blooms.
Monday 8 May 2017
My pink obsession continues, this time in the form of the beautiful fluorescent knit.
A few weeks ago I was supposed to be window-shopping in Urban Outfitters, when this pink jumper caught my eye (which is hardly surprising considering how bright it is!), as it was on sale (£20!!!) so I decided to treat myself, unsure really how much wear I'd get out of it given the time of year and the bright colour. Well to answer my own question - I've got a lot of wear out of it in the short amount of time I've had it (enough to see its blog post worthy). The bright colour is surprisingly easy to match with anything - it just seems to go, even when you don't expect it to. I'm especially loving wearing it with some simple black jeans - but I've worn it with dresses, skirts, dungarees - pretty much anything and everything in my wardrobe.
The colour also gives some Spring vibes to a slightly more cosy outfit, because let's be honest it not as warm as it looks (when the sky is actually blue), and when they sky isn't blue, it's grey, and rainy - really all-around jumper appropriate weather.
The jumper is slightly cropped, and a little baggy with a perfectly cuffed hem and sleeves. I have had so many compliments on this piece, whether it's on the chunky style knit or the gorgeous shade of pink - everyone seems to love it, and so do I!
This is a piece which is great to just throw on, feel comfy, and still turn heads. It's effortless and effective.
on the other side
one tree hill
sunday
sunday reading
Sunday Reading and Reflecting: 6
Sunday 7 May 2017
I cannot believe it's time for another Sunday Reading post, but here it is... Happy Sunday.
What have I been up to?
I've had a pretty good week. It began with bank holiday Monday, a day which I spent the morning with friends, and had a nice chilled afternoon, all of which I vlogged (it was supposed to be up on Saturday but life happened, it will definitely be up next Saturday though). This week has also included bowling with friends, a shopping day in Clevedon with family and the usual work, blogging, reading, etc.
My Blog
I decided to not post to the blog on Monday, as it was the bank holiday - so I've been a little quieter than usual. But my May goals and a Spring nail post did go live, which I was happy with the outcome of.
Honestly, I'm not really too sure what I'm posting next week. I'm feeling a bit burned out, and blogging block in creeping in - so I may have a quiet week rather than posting crap.
I've been thinking a lot about the direction I want to take my blog. I definitely want to start posting more fashion, more personal pieces and poetry. I find it harder to take fashion photos because I take all of the photos myself using a tripod, self-timer and phone remove - which means all photos end up being in the glamourous setting of my front of the back garden, I'm yet to feel brave enough to go into public to take photos all by myself - I feel like I'll get double a number of stares for using the self-time - I may see if I can rope some friends into helping me out - if I ever make money from this little website of mine, I will, of course, look into paying somebody to take photos (damn not having an Instagram boyfriend).
My Youtube Channel
I've already touched on this, but I didn't get up my Saturday vlog as promised, it will be up next week though. Instead, I'm been spending time working on a Lookbook - editing a lookbook is more time consuming and difficult than I expected.
Reading - Books
I'm getting more into On the Other Side by Carrie Hope Fletcher and am beginning to really enjoy it. I really like Vincent's character. It's unlike anything else I've read before, however it is slightly far fetched.
Reading - Articles
I don't know what I am by Grace Dunham
Reading - Blogs
New Years Resolutions 5 Months on by Hannah Witton
Watching Youtube
My Daughter by Jason Davis
So You've Messed up by Lucy Moon
Taking Time Out by Niomi Smartt
Watching - Series
After feeling serious FOMO seeing anything Lucy and Lydia posted on social media they as they visited the Tree Hill Set. I decided to watch re-watch One Tree Hill - it's not on UK Netflix, but I've had the first series on DVD in years so I got it back out. Oh dear lord, I forgot how much I love Lucas Scott, and relate Peyton Sawyer. So much love for One Tree Hill - I think treating myself to the rest of the series is going to be required!
Listening - Podcasts
COMC by Arden Rose and Will Darbyshire
Monthly Goal Review
I've decided to add a new segment to my already too long Sunday Blog post, where I review any progress with my monthly goals (post here) in order to ensure I remain focused on my goals.
1) Post two youtube videos a week - well we all know that didn't happen this week, but next week it will!
2) Arrange acting lessons - not done, will put on my Monday to-do list.
3) Exercise - I went for a run, which was one more run than the week before. Small steps eh?!
4) Take more photos - I've taken a few phone photographs, not so many camera ones.
5) Post more fashion to Instagram - my mum is becoming my Instagram husband an took an ootd for my Instagram yesterday, and I posts a fashion picture yesterday also!
6) Paint more - erm about that, it will happen, just hasn't yet.
7) Spend less time on my phone - the problem is I think I'm full on addicted, it's not on me right now, that's a start, right?
and apologise for the length of this post, well done if you've made it through!
Enjoy your Sunday.
What have I been up to?
I've had a pretty good week. It began with bank holiday Monday, a day which I spent the morning with friends, and had a nice chilled afternoon, all of which I vlogged (it was supposed to be up on Saturday but life happened, it will definitely be up next Saturday though). This week has also included bowling with friends, a shopping day in Clevedon with family and the usual work, blogging, reading, etc.
My Blog
I decided to not post to the blog on Monday, as it was the bank holiday - so I've been a little quieter than usual. But my May goals and a Spring nail post did go live, which I was happy with the outcome of.
Honestly, I'm not really too sure what I'm posting next week. I'm feeling a bit burned out, and blogging block in creeping in - so I may have a quiet week rather than posting crap.
I've been thinking a lot about the direction I want to take my blog. I definitely want to start posting more fashion, more personal pieces and poetry. I find it harder to take fashion photos because I take all of the photos myself using a tripod, self-timer and phone remove - which means all photos end up being in the glamourous setting of my front of the back garden, I'm yet to feel brave enough to go into public to take photos all by myself - I feel like I'll get double a number of stares for using the self-time - I may see if I can rope some friends into helping me out - if I ever make money from this little website of mine, I will, of course, look into paying somebody to take photos (damn not having an Instagram boyfriend).
My Youtube Channel
I've already touched on this, but I didn't get up my Saturday vlog as promised, it will be up next week though. Instead, I'm been spending time working on a Lookbook - editing a lookbook is more time consuming and difficult than I expected.
Reading - Books
I'm getting more into On the Other Side by Carrie Hope Fletcher and am beginning to really enjoy it. I really like Vincent's character. It's unlike anything else I've read before, however it is slightly far fetched.
Reading - Articles
I don't know what I am by Grace Dunham
Reading - Blogs
New Years Resolutions 5 Months on by Hannah Witton
Watching Youtube
My Daughter by Jason Davis
So You've Messed up by Lucy Moon
Taking Time Out by Niomi Smartt
Watching - Series
After feeling serious FOMO seeing anything Lucy and Lydia posted on social media they as they visited the Tree Hill Set. I decided to watch re-watch One Tree Hill - it's not on UK Netflix, but I've had the first series on DVD in years so I got it back out. Oh dear lord, I forgot how much I love Lucas Scott, and relate Peyton Sawyer. So much love for One Tree Hill - I think treating myself to the rest of the series is going to be required!
Listening - Podcasts
COMC by Arden Rose and Will Darbyshire
Monthly Goal Review
I've decided to add a new segment to my already too long Sunday Blog post, where I review any progress with my monthly goals (post here) in order to ensure I remain focused on my goals.
1) Post two youtube videos a week - well we all know that didn't happen this week, but next week it will!
2) Arrange acting lessons - not done, will put on my Monday to-do list.
3) Exercise - I went for a run, which was one more run than the week before. Small steps eh?!
4) Take more photos - I've taken a few phone photographs, not so many camera ones.
5) Post more fashion to Instagram - my mum is becoming my Instagram husband an took an ootd for my Instagram yesterday, and I posts a fashion picture yesterday also!
6) Paint more - erm about that, it will happen, just hasn't yet.
7) Spend less time on my phone - the problem is I think I'm full on addicted, it's not on me right now, that's a start, right?
and apologise for the length of this post, well done if you've made it through!
Enjoy your Sunday.
beauty
bikini so teeny
essie
mint candy apple
nails
pastel
splash of grenadine
spring
I decided to pick up a few new nails polishes, as I felt in need of some pastels for Springtime. I went straight to Essie because I find they have the best colour choices and formula when it comes to affordable nail polish.
I went for the shades: Splash of Grenadine, Mint Candy Apple and Bikini so Teeny, and I love all three of them. They're all perfect pastels for this time of year. These are the perfect way to add that extra splash of colour to any look. I think my favourite is Mint Candy Apple, but I can see myself getting plenty of wear out of all three colours!
What do you think about the colours I went for?
Spring Nails Colours.
Thursday 4 May 2017
I decided to pick up a few new nails polishes, as I felt in need of some pastels for Springtime. I went straight to Essie because I find they have the best colour choices and formula when it comes to affordable nail polish.
I went for the shades: Splash of Grenadine, Mint Candy Apple and Bikini so Teeny, and I love all three of them. They're all perfect pastels for this time of year. These are the perfect way to add that extra splash of colour to any look. I think my favourite is Mint Candy Apple, but I can see myself getting plenty of wear out of all three colours!
What do you think about the colours I went for?
goals
lifestyle
may
At the start of each month, I like to set myself a couple of goals, to ensure I stay motivated, productive, and know I'm trying to better myself. I thought I'd share a couple of my May goals with you in this post.
May Goals.
Tuesday 2 May 2017
At the start of each month, I like to set myself a couple of goals, to ensure I stay motivated, productive, and know I'm trying to better myself. I thought I'd share a couple of my May goals with you in this post.
- Post two Youtube videos a week - I was originally considering doing every day May but realised I'd probably burn out, and it's a lot to do, especially considering my small audience. However, as I am trying to up my Youtube game, I am going to try my best to post two videos a week. My usual Wednesday video, and each Saturday, a small video - either a vlog, poem or just a chat.
- Arrange acting lessons - I keep waffling on to my friends about wanting to start acting. May is going to be the month I bite the bullet and book some lessons.
- Take lunch to work - I am awful for buying myself lunch each day at work, mainly because I'm too lazy to make myself food - which just means that I spend more money and each junk because I can't seem to resist the chocolate aisle. During May I'm going to be more organised, save myself a bit of cash, and make myself a nice healthy lunch to take in each day.
- Get back into exercising - I've basically become bloody lazy, and I'm just feeling crap about myself, piling on weight and feeling weak, slobby and out of breath 90% of the time. It's just not a nice way to treat myself. I'm going to get back into running a couple of times a week, and maybe start doing some youtube workout videos too (recommendation would be much appreciated!)
- Take more photographs - I tend to take photos for my blog and Instagram, but not so much to capture memories. I'm going to take my camera out more this month, get in a bit of practice using it, and take some pictures of moments I want to remember.
- Post more fashion on Instagram - I love looking at Fashion Instagrams, and so I think it's time I went a bit oot with the ootd's, because why would I not create the content I love to see?!
- Paint, paint, paint. I have a painting I've been working on for months. May I'm going to keep painting until I'm happy with the result.
- Use my phone less - I recently got the moment apps, and I'm shocked with how much time I spend on my phone. During May I'm going to try to cut that down massively. Whether that means sticking it on aeroplane mode each evening or not sleeping with it under my pillow, I will lessen my time looking at that tiny screen (well not so tiny because I know a iPhone 7+).
I'd love to hear what your goals for the month are!
Wish me luck with mine!
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