30/11/2010

-I have finally ordered my Blackberry Torch after realising I couldn't take my current phone for much longer. Tonight it was crashing and going extremely slow which really riled me. I wouldn't mind if it was a cheap phone but it isn't and I've only had it 6 months!
-The heavy snow is continuing and I've realised that the sky is a rather strange colour when it snows, like a greyish pink. It's rather pretty especially seeing as there is snow falling from it. After venturing out in the snow today I realised that I don't mind the snow when it's white and crunchy but once it turns to ice...or even worse SLUSH then it becomes a major problem.
-My wellies weren't very sensible attire for venturing into the snow when teamed with thin socks...definitely learnt from my mistake and if I have to venture out in this weather tomorrow I will be wearing my fluffy socks!
-The one thing that is exciting me is the first day of advent tomorrow. I haven't grown too old to have an advent calendar so I will definitely be opening mine as soon as I wake up. However this means Christmas is near and I haven't finished my Christmas shopping yet. Hopefully if the weather holds out I'll be able to shop at the weekend for the rest of my gifts! Problem is I'm still undecided about what I want!

30/11/2010

-I was secretly hoping that I would wake up and be instantly better. Either that or that sixth form would be cancelled so I didn't have to go out in this snow. Neither has happened so far and a gut instinct tells me that it probably isn't going to happen. My general cold seems to be getting worse and a sore throat and ear ache have joined my runny nose and cough. What I'd give to just "chill out" on the sofa watching films today.
-My lips have become so sore due to the combination of cold weather and central heating. No matter how much lip balm I apply they just instantly dry out. \i may have to find my Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream and see if this does anything to them.
-It's only typical that our school hasn't closed. Last year they closed it for a couple of the days but the snow was much worse than this. I'm hoping that they might close it, they always seem to decide really late about it so I'm expecting I'll find out when I'm stood at the bus stop waiting for the bus.
-I'm hopefully going to order my new phone when I get home from sixth form. If I do I'm not holding out much hope for it to actually arrive any time soon with this weather, but I suppose if I order it now it has a while to come before my current contract ends.
-To be quite honest I shouldn't even be blogging right now. I have around 50 minutes to dry my hair, do my makeup, get dressed, have breakfast and sort my bag out. Can't see this happening somehow.

...

You never realise how much you miss people until you speak to them. Spoken to some friend's who are at university tonight and it has made me realise that I really miss them. Just the laughs we used to have. The fact that there was always somebody to do something with. Somebody to sit with in the common room. It feels like there's a hole in my life, but when Christmas comes and they all return I will be whole again. God that sounds sad but it is kind of true. Everyone who is here is busy with their full time jobs, and there's me...only at sixth form for a few hours and unable to find a part time job. Sixth form is my life, and it's a boring one with people I don't really talk to. I sit there feeling so out of it, like I'm not a part of what they have. Hopefully some day soon it will change. But until then I will continue to miss the ones who have left.

Winter

I'm currently snuggled up in bed with a cup of lemsip debating with myself over whether or not I like winter. There seems to be nothing better than being in the warmth on a cold winters day, sat by the fire watching TV. But these good things surely don't mean I enjoy winter? If I enjoyed it I'd be out there in the cold weather, instead of protecting myself from it.
We have heavy snow at the moment. It looks pretty and there is the possibility it will cancel sixth form but that's all there is to it. Some people enjoy playing in the snow, going sledging and snowballing each other. I personally hate it, why would you choose to go outside and freeze whilst throwing lumps of ice at each other? It's one of the things that is beyond me.
The one thing about winter and snow that completely baffles me is the fact that people crave a "white Christmas". Surely having snowfall on Christmas puts a downer on the day...family and friends may be unable to travel to you, it's dangerous and can cost lives. So why do people really want a white Christmas? I suppose it's due to media marketing...all the Christmas adverts and songs feature two S's. Santa and snow. It seems we can't have one without the other. When we receive Christmas cards they are often adorned with snowy scenes, but snow isn't Christmas.
So basically I've just ranted about snow and Christmas. I feel like I'm suffering from insanity now but I had to get it off my chest to people who may actually feel the same way.

Is it any good?

I have to admit I really like the idea of the Amazon Kindle...but I'm unsure whether I would get enough use out of it. I have seen plenty of reviews saying you can get free books for it but they all seem to mention classics. I'm not the sort of person who reads classics but neither am I the sort of person who wants to spend loads of money on the chick lit that I adore. I'm going to do a bit of research before I make my mind up on this product and see if I can find anywhere to get them for free or at least rather cheap. This could be a potential Christmas present I suppose. 

So if anybody who is reading owns one of these, let me know if it's any good. The reviews on Amazon bore me ever so slightly so if there are any good reviews let me know! 

My New Polish

As I have a large collection of nail polish I feel it's only right to blog about the new colours I get. This one came free with this months Glamour magazine.

It is by Nails Inc and the colour is Jermyn Street.

Normally I would go for a lighter shade of this colour but seeing as it was free I thought I'd give it a try and I'm glad I did. It's perfect for everyday wear as well as being glam enough for a night out. 

I'd definitely recommend it and as it is Nails Inc it is a long lasting polish and great quality despite the high price tag.

29/11/2010

-Beginning to think that it might be a good idea to do revision when I'm at home instead of bumming around doing nothing. In my defence I have felt quite ill today due to this bloody cold which seems to be getting increasingly worse. The snow and general cold weather isn't helping me to battle this cold so I wish it would go away, or get heavier leaving me snowed in please.
-I really wish my head of sixth form would hurry up with my UCAS reference and send the bloody thing off, I really want to start getting offers as I'm already getting excited for it. I hopefully should get at least one unconditional as I already have 240 points and some of the courses I have applied for have a entry requirement of 240 points. However these courses do say between 240-300 so I'm hoping my personal statement is good enough for them to consider the 240. Having an unconditional would take a massive amount of pressure off me although I actually think I could possibly manage the 300 points if my media coursework is allowed to be resubmitted.
-I'm not supposed to be getting a new phone for a couple of weeks but I feel that I may have to get it early. The battery on my Blackberry Bold 9000 is diabolical. On Saturday when I went out it was fully charged when I left the house at 6. I barely used the phone and by 11 the battery was drained and the phone had turned itself off. The same has happened today and when I'm barely using it surely it should last longer.

28/11/2010

-Last night was really good fun. Met up with a lot of friends that I haven't spent time with in ages which made it good. The whole atmosphere was great too.
-Today I've felt a little worse for wear due to me drinking vodka and lemonade last night. Vodka doesn't really agree with me but in my defence it was only £2 a glass whereas anything else was £3.50 so I at least didn't spend much.
-I have an ulcer which is awful and I'm currently awaiting my mum returning with some bonjela. I really hope she gets the cool mint one as I can't stand the smell and taste of the original one.
-I'm currently trying to write my christmas list. I did want some new uggs as mine are getting battered but they've got even dearer than when I purchased mine. Two years ago I ordered mine for around £130 and now they're £170 which I think is an absolute rip off. The only things I've decided I want are Viva La Juicy perfume and an external hard drive for my netbook. Other than that I'm completely clueless as to what I want which is extremely annoying. Hopefully I'll think of something soon.

27/11/2010

I officially have a cold. I'm so bunged up and sneezy it's unreal. Probably not the best idea to go out tonight when heavy snow is forecast but it's 3 of my friend's birthdays so I feel like I can't miss out.
I've been clever and bought trousers to go out in but I'm awaiting my ASOS delivery of tops to go with them otherwise I'm screwed so I really hope they come!

:(

I think I might be coming down with something, I have the worst sore throat ever and combined with feeling sick and having back ache it isn't too good. Think tonight's plans might be chill on the sofa under my duvet and have some paracetamol. Hope I aren't ill, it's not something that happens often so I think it might be coming.

25/11/2010

-It's snowing! Annoyingly it isn't settling so it's really a bit pointless but it looks so pretty! I do hope that it isn't snowing on Saturday when I go out, I was considering wearing wedges but I think flats might be a better idea.
-I attempted to order a couple of pairs of trousers (to consider for Saturday) off ASOS seeing as there's free next day delivery and 20% off, I got to the checkout and the site had gone down for maintenance, going to have to try again in a bit.
-Our new TV is coming on Saturday which means I will actually be able to have my TV back in my bedroom, I will no longer have to get up on my days off due to boredom and could lay in bed all day if I want to.
-Currently I'm trying to make a Christmas list, although all I've decided I want so far is a bottle of Viva La Juicy. I'm considering getting an external hard drive for my netbook but I don't even know if I need the extra memory or not. When I was younger I had millions of things for my list, I'd sit with the argos catalogue circling things, now I have nothing I want.
-Hopefully I'm going to finish the Harry Potter book today which means I can then go see the film when I want to. I probably won't review the book as I've already read it and it isn't the sort of book I review, although I'll see how I feel.
-I've weirdly stopped buying magazines lately, probably because I rarely go shopping but I miss reading them. Might have to get a subscription for Christmas.
-I really need some flat shoes for going out in, sandals aren't really appropriate seeing as the temperatures are dropping drastically. I saw some beautiful black ones with leopard bows on ASOS but they're were £17.60 with discount and for the amount of time I'd wear them it's a rip off. I'm hoping my mum will go to asda or tesco tomorrow so I can look there at shoes.

24/11/2010

I want to go "glamping"...if you're confused by what it is then I'll explain. It's camping but glamorous. No more of the muddy fields and no electric. There are even places abroad to go glamping! Here are a few of my favourite places I've found on www.goglamping.net

Here are my favourite UK ones:

Ecopod Boutique Retreat, Argyll:

http://www.domesweetdome.co.uk/index.php?mode=gallery&id=8
This place is amazing, they even have wi-fi and a tv! Extremely far from what you'd usually expect of camping. all the complimentary stuff looks amazing too.

The Dome Garden, Gloucestershire:

http://domegarden.co.uk/dome_sweet_dome.php

It seems like this is less glamping and more just cool camping. The domes remind me of the Eden Project in Cornwall and they seem very cool. They don't have the glamorous edge of the Ecopod Boutique Retreat.

Ekopod, Cornwall:

http://ekopod.co.uk/gallery/index.html

This appears to be a bit of a cross between the two previous ones. It seems a it of a better location (probably because it's the only one I've visited) but I'd love to go there anyway.

Tolcarne Surf Shacks, Cornwall:

http://www.tolcarnebeach.com/

Although these aren't the most glamorous I feel that they are the best invention. Perfect for teenagers to spend the summer in one of these. Right on the beach front which is perfect to catch the waves or at least the sun.

Cuckoo Down Farm, Devon:

http://www.luxurydevonyurts.co.uk/

This seems a bit family or couple orientated so if that's the sort of thing you want then this would be perfect! It looks very traditional but cosy which would make a lovely winter getaway (as long as it isn't too cold).

Airstream Charters, Cheshire:

http://www.thetinpangolin.com/

I love the retro look of this one, it wasn't what I was expecting from glamping. I think this would be a fun place to "glamp".

And my favourite from the rest of the world:

Cockatoo Island, Sydney:

http://www.cockatooisland.gov.au

I find this one fascinating. Who would think that you could actually camp in the middle of a city? I'd personally love this and it is very different to normal camping. Very glamorous!

Bivouac Nâamani, Ouarzazate:

http://www.marocbivouac.com/

This is very sex and the city style which I think would be perfect for a girls holiday or even a hen night (unless you're wanting to be rowdy). Camping in the middle of the desert - looks like perfection.

Safarilodges at Les Neuf Cerisiers, Pyrenees:

http://www.glampingfrankrijk.eu/index.php

This looks really cool and individual. I like the idea of the safari tents and it would be perfect for people wanting to explore the Pyrenees.

Selectcamp Lodgesuites, Lake Garda:

http://www.selectcamp.co.uk/Camping/Italy/Lake-Garda/Camping-Weekend/1006/

This is absolutely beautiful and sophisticated. The prices are very cheap to and even combined with flights it probably doesn't work out too expensive. Definitely one to look at!

Openairlodge at Domaine les Gandins, Auvergne:

http://www.domainelesgandins.com/

These look very cosy and relaxing. Probably perfect for a romantic getaway or if you need your batteries recharging.

Cabanes et Roulottes des Monédières, Limousin:

http://www.cabanes-roulottes-monedieres.com/

I love the different varieties of accommodation that this has to offer. I personally would stay in the cube one but they all seem to a high standard. I'm very impressed.

23/11/2010

I have felt so tired and drained today as I stupidly stayed up until 2 last night reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This wouldn't be too bad if I hadn't had sixth form meaning I had to be up at half 6. Annoyingly I have become slightly more awake as the night has gone on so I more than likely will struggle to get to sleep tonight. Oh well I might actually get some more of my book read.
Everyday I torture myself by looking at things I can't afford on ASOS. These are my personal favourites from their CURVE range.

All of these are absolutely beautiful and can be bought from www.asos.com

This is one that I can't make my mind up about, I know it's supposed to be a beach cover up but I can't help wonder if it'd work with a black vest tunic underneath for going out in.

Coppers on Channel 4

Tonight's showed Wakefield and Leeds - both places I go out into. It made me laugh when they were discussing the girl in sparkly knickers asking if she was older than 15, in reality she's actually 14. Why don't they do anything about this? I have to say I have never seen any incidents when I've been out like what they're showing on this program but it is very intriguing to see if I know people. Going to have the watch the beginning that I missed on channel 4+1

22/11/2010

The weather forecast is predicting snow which I'm hoping will hold off until my mittens have arrived. I saw these beauties in BHS the other day but as I'm on a budget £10 did seem a bit pricey. Two days later I found the gloves on the website with 30% off and free delivery so I ordered them for £7. Only a £3 saving but when you're unemployed it makes all the difference. The mittens are black suede which I've found increasingly difficult to find. Everywhere has cream/chestnut suede and I didn't think they'd go very well with a black coat which is why I had to get these ones!
I've just started re-reading Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows so I can remember what happens before I go see the film. I'm incredibly upset that it's all going to have ended soon but I don't think Harry Potter will leave our lives, it's a definite legacy from my childhood and teenage years so I will keep watching and reading it for years to come.
I'm getting a leopard print netbook case for Christmas, although I purchased it myself the other day to avoid my mum buying the wrong one. Tempted to just use it now as it would be extremely useful for when I'm doing revision at sixth form. Hmmm.

Shopaholic and Sister - Sophie Kinsella

Becky thought being married to Luke Brandon would be one big Tiffany box of happiness. But to be honest, it’s not quite as dreamy as she’d hoped. The trouble started on honeymoon, when she told Luke the tiniest little fib, about the teeniest little purchase. Now she’s on a strict budget, she doesn’t have a job – and worst of all her beloved Suze has a new best friend. Then she receives some incredible news. She has a long-lost sister! Becky has never been more excited. Finally, a real sister! They’ll have so much in common! They can go shopping together…choose shoes together…have manicures together…Until she meets her – and gets the shock of her life. It can’t be true. Surely Becky Bloomwood’s long-lost sister can’t…hate shopping? A sister, a soulmate, a skinflint?


I never know where to start when reviewing Kinsella's novels. I absolutely love them and always have so much to say. Becky's honeymoon sounded like heaven, and of course it wasn't without her secret spending. I had to laugh when two lorries turned up to deliver her purchases, in which she had two dining tables and 20 dining chairs. I felt empathetic towards Becky when she realised that Suze had replaced her and by the way Lulu acted towards her I think she knew deep down that she could never replace Becky as Suze's best friend. 
The main focus of the story is Becky's sister that she never knew about. The sister that she has high hopes of going shopping with and giving each other makeovers. Yet her sister is the exact opposite of Becky. She hates spending money and hates makeup and shoes. Her passion is rocks, and it isn't until Becky sees Jess' rock collection that she realises that they do have similarities with how passionate they are towards their loves. Jess rock collection is in a cupboard identical to Becky's shoe cupboard. In the end they end up sorting things out which is good and there is a surprise right at the end which has left me excited for the next book.
Kinsella has managed to create a series which leaves the readers wanting more. Normally I would have been bored of the series by now but I have been well and truly drawn into the world of Becky Bloomwood and her roller-coaster life. This book made me laugh and I have to admit I was quite upset when Becky thought her marriage was over (I'm glad it isn't though) and I feel not many authors manage to achieve it. She has kept to her theme using the banking letters and other letters in the middles of chapters and even incorporated some from her sister's bank which made me laugh. Bring on Shopaholic and Baby is all I can say! Well done Sophie Kinsella.

Books

I know they say to never judge a book by it's cover but after browsing www.chicklitreviews.com I realised that I do pick books based on their covers.
In my defence if something doesn't look good then the likelihood is that as humans we won't be attracted to it, right?
Oh well I can't complain..I've got a long list of books to buy, probably not as many as I have to read before I before them but still it's a rather long list. At least I'll have lots to review!

The Glamorous (Double) Life of Isabel Bookbinder - Holly McQueen

Isabel Bookbinder might not be leading the most glamorous life ever (measuring column inches at the Saturday Mercury isn't exactly the job of her dreams) but luckily she's developed a foolproof plan to change all that.


Reasons to become a bestselling author:
-Plentiful opportunities to swish new Super-hair
-Celeb-filled launch party at Claridge's
-Am bound to captivate the delicious Joe Madison
-Can finally prove to father that Really am Not a Water


Potential setbacks:
-Don't yet have Yoko bag, as carried by arch rival Gina D
-Hmm. Am inadvertently at the centre of a major political sex scandal
-Paparazzi are doorstepping my parents and boring boyfriend Russell
-Haven't actually got around to putting pen to paper yet


Admittedly some of the obstacles are a little daunting, but Isabel's sure that a woman of her ingenuity - and creativity - can find a way...




I have to admit that it did take me a while to get into this book, but once I did I was hooked and was determined to find out more about Isabel's life. The general storyline and style of writing reminded me of Sophie Kinsella's 'Shopaholic' series which may be part of why I enjoyed it. Never-the-less it is a fantastic book with a great storyline. The twist towards the end of the story left me in shock, I never expected it but then I realised it all made sense. The beginning of the book wasn't very shocking, I could see the political scandal coming as soon as Barry questioned her about the "article" so I wasn't surprised when it happened. Apart from the beginning the rest of the novel is excellent, however I don't find the letter's etc in between the chapters as amusing as the one's in Kinsella's books.
Actually come to think of it there are a lot of resemblances to the Shopaholic books. Not only the layout of the novel (with letter's in between chapters), but the lying to her parents. Also the character of Isabel's mum reminds me ever so slightly of Becky's mum in Kinsella's series. However do not let this detract from the book itself, if I hadn't read Kinsella's books I would have fallen in love with this one even more than I have now.
Definitely recommended for all chick lit fans.

21/11/2010

My brother is actually an idiot. We've ordered a new TV from M&S and he answered the phone to them and hung up on them as he thought they were trying to sell something. If this affects when our TV is being delivered then I won't be happy as I would love to have my TV back in my bedroom and not in the living room.
Had the nicest breakfast ever. A bacon and mushroom sandwich. I love fried mushrooms although they're not very good for you.
I'm eagerly awaiting tonights X Factor...Katie surely must go but seeing as she's avoided it EVERY week it still may not happen.
I watched Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone last night and today Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is on. I'm well and truly in the Potter mood before we go see it next week.
My plans for today are:
- Bidding on an ebay item for my dad.
- Doing some psychology revision.
- Maybe a psychology past paper if I can find one I haven't done at least 3 times.
- Tidying my room.
- Sorting out my stuff...decluttering.

20/11/2010

I have just officially sent my UCAS to my referee. It cost £21...£2 increase from last year! Do they not understand about the credit crunch?
My choices are:
- Bath Spa - Media Communications
- Kingston University - Media and Cultural Studies
- Liverpool John Moores University - Media, Culture, Communication
- Staffordshire University - Celebrity Journalism
- University of Worcester - Media and Cultural Studies

Out of these choices I really want to go to Kingston, the course looks amazing and as it's close to London it would be really good for work placement opportunities.

I'll be nervously awaiting my offers, once my referee gets it sent off (which judging by last years performance probably won't be for a while).

Children in Need

I'm extremely glad that Mcfly have featured on this years Children in Need...how can you say no to donating to those beautiful men? After seeing Harry win the Strictly Come Dancing Special I have a new found respect for him and I feel he should bust some moves out during performances...or just show off them muscles of his. I couldn't help but notice that Frankie stayed glued to her man's side throughout Rochelle's dance instead of cheering along with her bandmates. Clearly choosing her man before her friends...but I suppose I'd choose Dougie over everything.
I really hope I can attend the tour next March that Danny just mentioned, I haven't seen them live in so long! I've actually missed them seeing as I used to see them at least twice in a year.
I really wanted to do a review and pictures of the BarryM nail effects but on pictures it doesn't show up very well so I'll just mention it on here. I think this is a product that only works with certain colours. When it first arrived I had hot pink polish on and over the top it didn't really work, I felt it looked a bit scruffy. So I decided to re-do them and use the gold BarryM and it has worked a treat. My nails look almost leopard print like which is great, especially considering I was going to pay for Minx doing so I could have leopard nails. I think this is definitely a beauty must have and I may have to stock up on it.
Tomorrow I plan to actually do some psychology revision and maybe some past papers. After realising that my first exam is less than 8 weeks away I've decided that it is time to start otherwise my university dreams might get crushed again.
I'll be able to get a full day of work in seeing as I have to be up early to wait for my ASOS delivery to arrive. I ordered this top after seeing them tweet about free next day delivery. It looks so comfy so even if I don't like the style of it I may just keep it to lounge around the house in.

Tiredness is kicking in so I feel it's bedtime for me, having a quick game of bingo on Foxy Bingo first though.

19/11/2010

I feel like I've managed to organise my life today:
- I've sorted out that massive box of psychology work that I have collected over the years and managed to de-clutter as well as organise it.
- I applied for an ISA so that I can save for university. The good thing about Natwest is that on your internet banking you can set up a "Savings Goal" which tells you how much to put away a month in order to reach your target by the desired date. I need to save £60 a month in order to hit mine.
- Sorted out my universities. I'm thinking Kingston will be my first choice seeing as I love the look of the course and I will be financially more stable there. As it is in London I get a higher maintenance loan because it is typically more expensive accommodation in London. However the accommodation at Kingston is a lot cheaper than most of the other universities I've looked out. This means, by rough estimation...after paying for my accommodation...I should have £70 a week left from my loan and grant. This contrasts with the £10 I would have had if I'd gone to Lincoln this year. Now let's hope I can get a bit of work before next September in order for me to reach my target of £1000 and boost myself up to having nearly £100 a week!
-Going Christmas shopping later on so I will hopefully be able to get my mum's present crossed off my list. I was going to buy her the Marc Jacobs Daisy gift set but she did rather like Euphoria by Calvin Klein when we went shopping so I may have to purchase that instead.

I'm hoping that I can get my UCAS sent to my referee this weekend and then hopefully it should be all done and dusted within the next week (provided she gets her arse into gear). I know I'll be extremely nervous whilst waiting for my offers, and I'm hoping that at least one of them will be an unconditional just to take the pressure off myself.
I've set my sky+ to record Children in Need tonight. Extremely excited to see Harry from Mcfly doing Strictly Come Dancing. I've never thought of him as the dancing type and this should make up for me being unable to attend their Leeds signing yesterday and the lights switch on. I'm not really sure what else is featuring on this years Children in Need but it should be as good as the previous years. I'll be sat up until the end (unless I fall asleep) because I love it that much. I know it's for Children in Need but I hate the clips they show you of all the children they help, it really upsets me.
Before I forget, I purchased BarryM Nail Effects the other day and I'm extremely impressed! When teamed with their gold nail polish it looks quite leopard printish without looking tacky! I'm very pleased. I may do a full product review of it if I can find enough to write about it.

♥

Nothing wrong with a bit of eye candy for the girls.

Places...

Just some of the places I'd love to visit...

Milan: From what I've seen it is a beautiful city. I also heard that the shopping is good too.

Sydney: anywhere in Australia would amaze me and Sydney seems like somewhere I'd enjoy.

Barcelona: I've never visited Spain and the architecture in Barcelona is amazing.

Bahamas: I think the picture explains why I'd like to visit without me saying anything.

Tokyo: I love the big cities from visiting New York and London so this would be my next step.

Los Angeles: One day I'd love to travel America and this would be one of my top choices.

Cape Town: I've heard it's a beautiful place despite the negative press it gets.

Dubai: Just one of the places I'd love to say I'd been.

And some places I'd love to revisit...

New York: I was sad to only spend a few days here, and I was gutted that I couldn't go again in 2011.

Paris: I would love to go back when the weather's nice. I didn't get a great impression of it when there was snow on the ground.

Orlando: I went here on a family holiday and spent most of the time in the theme parks. I'd love to explore the surrounding area and see what else it has to offer.

Kusadasi: My first holiday with friends and I loved it. Such a beautiful place which I am most definitely returning to at some point in life. 

Fashion ♥

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Each of these women have a distinct style, each of which I completely love. They obviously have a flair for fashion (or their stylist does) but even so they know what works for them and what doesn't. Whether they're dressed up or dressed down they look fantastic no matter what. I'd give anything to have 10% of the style each of these women have.

University

I finally have all my choices sorted with Kingston being my main choice! Just have to perfect my personal statement now and I'm ready to send it off. Hopefully my mum will pay to send it off seeing as I'm very skint. Wish this cheque would hurry up clearing and my ebay money would go in my account!

18/11/2010

Seeing as though Sims 3 runs extremely slowly on this laptop I was delighted to find that there was an app so I could have it on my iPod. This was an extremely bad move, I'm actually addicted! Any spare moment I have I go on it! I also downloaded the ambitions one too!
The motivation to get into university has struck, and although I'm not completely happy with my personal statement, nor have I chosen all my choices...I'm feeling rather confident. The only thing worrying me is money, if I don't manage to find a job soon I will be unable to save for university which will be a disaster considering I don't get a very large grant, and quite often the money I need for accommodation alone eats up most of this.
My netbook is beginning to annoy me too, it seems unable to function properly causing me to leave letters out that I've actually typed causing things to take a lot longer than they should.
I set my phone contract for cancellation yesterday which means that in a months time I shall have my shiny new Blackberry Torch! I'm excited! I would be able to get it now if o2 didn't do such appallingly priced contracts...on Orange from phones4u I can get 300 minutes, unlimited texts, unlimited internet and the phone for free for only £35 a month. The same money on o2 only gets you 300 minutes, unlimited texts, 500mb internet and the phone costs £179! It's actually ridiculous!

17/11/2010

I've got some serious writers block with my personal statement, it's getting there but not quite finished yet. Good job really seeing as I've only found 4 courses so far and would like to get the most out of the £20 UCAS rob us of! Hopefully will have it all sorted by the weekend! Very scary...especially seeing as I've only managed to visit 1 of the universities I'm applying for! Hope I like them all!

16/11/2010

Didn't realise that I missed blogging yesterday, actually had a busy and productive day so I suppose I can let myself off. Yesterday I went shopping and actually found a winter jumper, wish I could have found more than one. The weather lately is shocking, when I left the house this morning it was practically icy! Last night we had a quiet night at the pub which was fun, although the quiz machines are too addictive, we must have put so much money in it!
Rather productive day at sixth form today, did quite a few pages of revision! Another day off tomorrow due to the teacher being on a course so I plan to get all my uni stuff sorted and hopefully my ucas form sent off. Only managed to find a couple of courses that I want to consider so I'm not really sure what to do atm. I still have my personal statement to finish off too and I'm sure of what direction to focus on (media or journalism).
Hopefully all will be sorted by tomorrow.
Made a rather tasty meal tonight, will update later with the pictures and the recipe!
Watched my new favourite programme "The Zoo" tonight, and fell in love with the baby elephants. There was a newborn called George who was absolutely beautiful. Have to admit I wasn't too keen on watching the attempted mating of the Komodo dragons.

X factor

Every Sunday night is becoming rather familiar with the X Factor. Katie Waissel in consistently in the bottom two and each week she gets kept in. Facebook and Twitter explodes as soon as this news is announced, so are people actually voting for her? It is an outright fix. She's in the bottom two each week If she won then would she even get far in her career? She'd need fans to buy her songs and as far as I can see she has more haters than fans.
I think tomorrow's newspapers should be interesting after tonight's events. Aiden shouldn't have gone and I think it's definitely fixed with him because he is actually amazing. I believe that Katie should not even be in the competition, she's already had a record deal. Not to mention how much she messed up in the audition and judges houses.

Yummm

Tagliatelle with Ham

Ingredients:
450g/1lb fresh or dried tagliatelle
175g/6oz unsalted butter
350g/12oz prosciutto, cut into 5cm/2in strips
175g/6oz Parmesan cheese

Serves 4

1. If you are using dried tagliatelle, cook it in a large saucepan of boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until tender but still firm to the bite. If you are using fresh tagliatelle, it will be ready in 2-3 minutes after the water has come back to the boil.
2. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a frying pan. Add the prosciutto and cook over a medium heat,stirring constantly, for 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat.
3. Drain the tagliatelle and tip into a warmed serving dish. Add the prosciutto and melted butter and toss well. Sprinkle evenly with the Parmesan cheese, season with pepper and serve.

My changes:
I was only making this for myself so I didn't need all the ingredients, I did consider quartering the recipe but I decided to estimate with the amounts to make it a lot easier. Instead of using prosciutto I used ham as that was all I had in the house so I shall try it again with the prosciutto at some point. I also added parsley to the recipe for a bit more flavour. I decided to serve with a mixed leaf salad as I sometimes find pasta a bit plain on it's own.
This was an absolutely gorgeous meal, and I will definitely be making it again. It was incredibly easy to make and didn't even take 10 minutes. Another great recipe from "Only 4 Ingredients".

14/11/2010

Woke up feeling awful, got the worst headache ever and I don't know why. Surprisingly I managed to get around 10 hours sleep last night which really shocked me as I average about 6 hours a night usually. I think I'm going to have a day of relaxation today, I have a lot of films to watch on sky+ so I may as well attempt to get through them. It'll give me something to review too.
After the films I need to package my eBay items up seeing as I have sold a load already. The rest of them finish today and I really hope everything sells. I was really shocked yesterday, a jumper I bought for £30 2-3 years ago sold for nearly £30. I was only expecting around £10 for it.
Shopping tomorrow - may actually find something I want for Christmas other than perfume seeing as I'm struggling to think of anything. I did see a gorgeous bag in M&S yesterday so I might put that on my list.
Excited for the X Factor tonight, I'm unsure of who's actually going to get voted off because there wasn't anybody (apart from Wagner who won't get voted out anyway) that didn't do very well. I'm feeling that it might be Paije and Katie in the bottom two and if Katie survives for another week I won't be happy. I was very shocked to learn that Paije was an extra in Harry Potter! That one was kept quiet for a while wasn't it?

13/11/2010

I found the most amazing cookbook in Marks and Spencer's today for only a fiver! It's called "Only 4 Ingredients" and well the title explains itself really. These are quick and simple recipes that hardly need any ingredients so don't end up too pricey either. As soon as I got home I made the Leek & Potato soup and I have to say it is gorgeous so I thought I'd share the recipe here.

Ingredients:
55g/2oz butter
4 leeks, trimmed and chopped
350g/12oz potatoes, diced
850ml/1 1/2 pints chicken or vegetable stock

Serves 4

1. Melt half the butter in a saucepan over a low heat. Add the leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minute. Increase the heat to medium, pour in the sock and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the leeks and potatoes are tender.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the remaining butter in small pieces at a time. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Press the soup through a sieve or pass through a food mill into a warmed bowl. Alternatively ladle the soup straight into a bowl to leave it with a chunky texture. Serve immediately, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil (optional).

My changes:
I only used 3 leeks whilst using 400g of potatoes because I prefer the taste of potatoes to leeks. I also used a hand blender instead of pressing through a sieve or using a food mill as I felt this would give a smoother finish.

I really would recommend buying this fantastic book if you love cooking but want simple cheap recipes. I know I'm going to be using this book for a long time to come.

Tiredness

I'm extremely confused. When I'm out I'm absolutely knackered yet as soon as I get home I seem to have bundles of energy. From about half 9 when we were out until I walked in my door 20 minutes ago I was constantly yawning, yet now I'm wide awake and will be unable to sleep for a while. It happens all the time which is completely frustrating, hopefully one day my tiredness will come when I want it and stay away when I don't.

12/11/2010

Tonight's plan was a nice quiet meal with my psychology girls in Yates'. We hadn't even got there before deciding to join the lads and go to the German Market afterwards. Whilst eating we were informed that the queues were large and it was "rammed" so we decided to stay in Yates' for a tequila or two. Got given a free tequila neckerchief and a tequila shot glass so we weren't complaining. I did complain at the German Market though, it was £10 for a litre of beer (not even 2 pints!!!) and you only got £3.50 of it back if you handed your glass back in. I know they can charge that because people are stupid enough to pay it but it is actually ridiculous.
Earlier on in the day I went to Castleford (worst place ever) to visit family. Wetherspoons for breakfast was rather good! Teacakes and orange juice for about £1.20...absolute bargain. Afterwards we went into the town centre and as we were walking I noticed out of the corner of my eye, the next instalment of the Shopaholic series in a charity shop window. After purchasing that I began a mad spree through all the charity shops and bought another 7 books (for around a fiver which was a bargain!) to add to my never ending "to read pile". At least it gives me more things to review on here so it's all good in the long run. I really want to find somewhere to sell all my books seeing as I have 3 full boxes of decent books that have only been read once, that I refuse to give to charity or throw away considering the amount of money I spent on them. It's a shame that on eBay and Amazon you don't get much money for books otherwise I'd go crazy on there with them all.
Speaking of eBay, several of my listings end tomorrow and they all (but two) have bids on the so I'm definitely going to get quite a bit of money. I received my cheque from the mobile recycling company today so that's some more money to add to my account, this being unemployed business is actually making me richer than when I had a job.

Job Hunting

How depressing is job hunting? Even though I have nearly two years retail experience nowhere seems to want me. This wouldn't bother me as much if my friend (who has no retail experience whatsoever) managed to walk into a shop asking for a job yesterday and is starting on Monday. Some people have all the luck
I'm hoping that because I haven't been rejected from my most recent Boots application yet that I could be in with a chance. I'd absolutely love to work at Boots, seeing as I spend most of my money in there. I wonder if you get discount too.
I should be fine for the time being, my ebaying seems to be going rather well. I've made £100 already and none of my listings have ended yet so I'm hoping for at least double that (might be pushing it a bit but oh well). I'm just a bit annoyed that I might not even get a job at all, most places won't be looking after Christmas because they'll keep their temps on, so what am I supposed to do for money for university? Especially seeing as I'm now eyeing up the most expensive accommodation EVER. It sucks being young and jobless.
Although I suppose that once I leave sixth form in May I might actually be able to get Jobseeker's allowance...if it's still going then.

11/11/2010

After doing a practice exam question in Psychology today I've begun to realise I really need to knuckle down and get working. Unable to do the question without using the textbook I began to copy out the work from the book which will not get me a good grade, plus I'll be unable to do that in the exam anyway. I really need to begin to discipline myself, now I get 4 days off a week I never feel the rush to do work like I did when I had no days off. I think if I was busier I'd make more of an attempt to do the work I'm supposed to do. Revision definitely must start soon.
I'm off for my hair cutting in a couple of hours. Completely clueless as to what to have done and I hope it isn't my usual hairdresser because I've begun to dislike how she does my hair. Hopefully it'll look okay but I'm not holding out much hope. I want it back to how I had it about a year ago but I'm not too sure how to describe it, plus it only look okay occasionally.
Extremely excited for the new series of Misfits beginning tonight. I want to know how Nathan is going to get out of his coffin and what's instore for the group. Might watch "The Social Network" at some point too seeing as I've downloaded it and not watched it yet.
I really want the weather to get nicer, the rain and wind today is horrific! I'd rather it snowed. Plus I really need some gloves but I'm unable to afford to pay for any which is very annoying.
Started reading a new book last night - The Double Life of Isabel Bookbinder. Be expecting a review for it shortly as I'm well on my way to finishing it!
I really want these trousers. I would buy them but I'm not really a trousers sort of person plus what shoes do you wear with them in winter? Think I'll just stick to my leggings and boots. When I get my money from eBay I'm definitely going to have to purchase a winter wardrobe, all I have is the odd jumper from last year and my coat. I freeze all the time which isn't good.

Tonight's TV

Well Wednesday nights do have the best TV, although I think I'm going to have to record The Only Way is Essex and Peter Andre: The Next Chapter and watch them tomorrow as there is too much on for me to cope with.

Gossip Girl:
I was eagerly waiting this episode in order to feed my obsession, and boy was it worth it. Juliet finally got what she deserved, she should have known not to mess with the Upper East Siders who all stick up for each other. I'm still interested to learn what Serena did to Juliet's family and I'm sure all will be revealed eventually.
I think Chuck and Blair need to get their relationship back on track instead of just having "hate sex" all the time. Although it did shock me that she slept with him in a limo and had numerous quickies. I didn't think that would be Blair's style. I'm even more excited for the next episode seeing as there were a lot of cliff hangers left at the end. Are Blair and Chuck going to get back together? Is Serena going to choose Dan or Nate? and just what exactly are Juliet, Vanessa and Jenny planning? I think this season is going to get even better now these three have teamed up together. I'm expecting a lot of drama and the feuds to carry on.
With all of this happening I barely even noticed the fashion, apart from the Ballet dresses which were all gorgeous. I have to say my favourites were Juliets (as it was rather girly and sophisticated) as well as Serena's quite grungy effort.


Pride Of Britain Awards:
Has Carol Vorderman had a boob job? She's definitely had some work as she looks a lot younger than she used to.
I was extremely shocked at the first award winner, never in a million years would I personally jump onto a tube track when there was an approaching train to save a drunk. I know that sounds awful but I wouldn't risk my life for somebody who was that out of it they didn't know what they were doing. He definitely deserved this award as he showed great bravery.
I was in tears at the young both who lost both of his eyes due to cancer. He is an inspiration for everyone. The things he does despite his disability are amazing, most able bodied people don't do half of what he does. I'm glad he got to meet his the X Factor judges and contestants and is able to attend one of the live shows. He thoroughly deserves everything good he gets in life and I can see him going far and not letting his disability get the better of him.
I remember seeing the bus fire on a different programme and was astounded by the off duty police officer (Colin)'s bravery. Fair enough flagging the coach down but I would never get on board, I'd have just stood there shouting at people to get off and not get on and help myself as selfish as that sounds.I can't believe the passengers just stood in the field watching instead of running...if there's a fire on a vehicle which has a tank of fuel it's obvious there's going to be an explosion. He was extremely brave, as are all the winners and thoroughly deserved the award.
How surprising, Nadine didn't come onstage with Girls Aloud, why don't they just get rid of her? Happy that Cheryl came forward and got pied for charity, no other celebrity seemed willing to do it.
Did they seriously call Nick Clegg honourable? I'm not even going to get started on that pompous prick.
Amy Dempsie is the Pride of Britain, putting her life at risk to save 7 children. That is actually amazing. She had me crying my eyes out because she's so young and did something so big to save peoples lives.

University Fees

Judging by what I've seen on the news and on twitter the demonstration against university fees going up has caused a lot of chaos. Maybe they haven't got about in the right way, causing fires and smashing up the Millbank tower. But they do have the right to be heard, and us in the younger generation deserve the right to go to university regardless of how much we earn. How much debt are we going to be in if tuition fees go up to £9000 a year? From tuition fees alone after 3 years that will be £27000 worth of debt without maintenance loans on top of this.
The Tories have caused so many problems since they came to power, but is it right that we blame them? They had the majority of the votes, so surely we can blame this partially on the general public? As for the Lib Dems, Nick Clegg is a complete joke and is only in it for himself. All through the election campaigns he banged on about university fees and helping students. Now he's turned his back on us and gone back on all his promises. Did he just promise this as he knew the students would be clueless who to vote for? We'll never know but now as he is Cameron's ally we have no choice but to sit back and watch students spiral into more debt.
I'm applying for university at the moment, and apparently this fees problem won't affect me as I'm starting in 2011. Knowing Cameron he'll make it affect everyone, but even if it doesn't I know several people who will be applying for 2012 and I don't feel it's fair that they should have to pay nearly triple what people pay nowadays. This is completely ridiculous. There are people claiming benefits just because they are too lazy to work, but us who want to better ourselves in life are going to get in serious debt doing so. Surely this isn't what the world should be coming to? We should be the ones getting help, not those too bone idle to do anything.
As I'm only in college for 5 hours a week I cannot get child benefits as I need to be in college for longer. I'm also unemployed, but I can't get jobseekers allowance because I'm in education. Why can't I get any money from the government and then there's people getting their houses paid for, their food paid for and probably their drug habits paid for. This country needs to change and until it does it's going to go on a downward spiral.
Good on the students for protesting. Let's hope it makes a difference!

10/11/2010

My unexpected midweek day off. I actually had a very nice lie in this morning although it was disrupted at 8am with my brother returning from work. It confuses me as to why he has to be so noisy all the time? I never get a proper lie in without being disturbed at this time. Maybe on his few days off over this weekend I might get a proper nights sleep.

I played on Sims 3 the other day for the first time in ages. I'm now addicted again and feel that I cannot leave my family again as I did before now they are expecting a baby. The only problem I encounter is that it runs extremely slowly on this netbook which makes me get rather bored easily. I keep meaning to move my brothers computer monitor into my bedroom so I can actually play it on a large screen instead of this mini one which I can hardly see. I'll try and remember to do it tonight.

Seeing as we're having a practice exam question in Psychology tomorrow I feel it is only right to do a bit of revision for it so I'm not sat there clueless like I usually am. 

So plan of action today is... a couple of hours of Sims, some psychology revision, good ucas search and hopefully get my choices sorted. and then GOSSIP GIRL!!

It's quite bad how excited I get for Gossip Girl but I am actually obsessed. Seeing as I only started watching it this year and managed to watch all the first three seasons in less than 2 months whilst studying for my exams shows how hooked I am. 

I may have to watch the rest of the Pride of Britain awards afterwards before The Only Way is Essex (my guilty pleasure)

Tonight I may review the episode of Gossip Girl, or just the fashion in it.

09/11/2010

I've actually had a rather busy day today. Full day at sixth form which was rather annoying as my first lesson was cancelled so I had to sit around for 3 hours until my next one. Luckily tomorrow's lesson is also cancelled which means an extra day off for me which I'm going to spend revising like the good girl I am. Maybe I might actually have chance to have a proper search of university courses and decide what I want to do. I also went to visit my grandparents, I felt a bit bad that I was rather tired so wasn't much company for them so I just sat and watched the TV. 

One of the programmes my Nanna had put on TV was "The Zoo" which was heartbreaking. I fell in love at first sight with a baby penguin and then it had to get put down which was upsetting. There was also a male gorilla who was hilarious, and then he died too :( I'm definitely going to watch the whole series because I found it to be a rather good programme.

I'm finally getting my haircut on Thursday. Unsure of how to have it, definitely not going for a bob again but my hair seems to be stuck in that style...hope they can solve it.

Now it's nearly bed time for me, although my tiredness seems to have passed so I may attempt to watch "The Social Network". If I don't manage it I'm sure I'll get chance to watch it on my millions of days off.

I really hope I get a phone call about a job soon, I'm getting annoyed with hardly having anything to do with my time, I want to do something productive but the only thing I can think of is housework and that's something I'm not very good at.

At least I have Gossip Girl to watch tomorrow.

Shopaholic Ties The Knot - Sophie Kinsella

Rebecca Bloomwood has the dream job. She’s a personal shopper, so is able to spend other people’s money all day instead of her own. And she gets paid for doing it. The perfect job, the perfect man - gorgeous Luke Brandon – and now … the perfect wedding. Yes, Luke has proposed and wedding bells are in sight. No excuses are needed to start the shopping trip of all time. And Becky’s parents are just assuming that the wedding will be at home – a marquee in the garden and Becky in her mum’s wedding dress, which she’s been saving specially for the occasion. But Luke’s mother has very different ideas – a huge affair in New York in a forest glade setting – or perhaps a Venetian Ball, or a fin de siecle extravagance? Now Becky’s getting confused. She doesn’t want to say ‘no’ to anyone. The plans are going ahead, and soon it will be too late to turn back – from either wedding…



So even though in one of my previous posts I stated that I wouldn't allow myself to purchase the next shopaholic book and instead wait for Christmas, I couldn't resist. I have been well and truly sucked into Becky's world and everything involved in it.
Although I completely love all of Kinsella's work the one problem I find is that the title of each book gives away what's going to happen. If it wasn't called "Shopaholic Ties The Knot" Luke's proposal might have been a pleasant surprise instead of me waiting for it and constantly guessing when it was going to come up. Never the less it was very romantic and cute - something I would expect from the shopaholic series.
I was wondering whether now Becky and Luke were serious if she would still be spending mad, but then I realised it wouldn't be a shopaholic book without this erratic behaviour.Claiming that a miu miu skirt was a household item made me remember why I love Becky Bloomwood so much.
Becky's New York wedding sounded like every girls dream, and I was so happy that she finally had one up on Alicia Bitch Long Legs. I was so happy with the choices that Becky made with her wedding, and it worked out perfectly. Towards the end when Alicia was going to ruin it all for her I had an inkling that Becky might have offered her wedding to Alicia, but I'm very glad she didn't.
I think my favourite character in these series has got to be Becky's mum, she's so cute and a bit dippy and along with Janice from next door they add the comedy factor to these books.
Another fantastic offering from Kinsella...now I have to wait and see when I cave in and purchase the next installment.

08/11/2010

   The weather is absolutely miserable today, leaving me no option but to actually do some psychology revision. I don't seem to have got very far with the work I've supposed to be doing myself which is a bit annoying, its just difficult to motivate yourself sometime. Although with the exam being around 2 months away maybe I should start knuckling down and actually doing the work. I can't miss out on university again this year!
   Speaking of university I really need to send my UCAS form off but I've only managed to choose 3 courses so far, and I really want to get the most out of my £20 so I'm going to have to have a good search for some other courses I may enjoy.
   My ebaying seems to be going okay for now, got a few items with bids on and out of my 16 items there are only 2 that don't have anybody watching them. I'm hoping for major bidding wars next weekend so I can actually have some money for christmas presents.
   Unsure whether to start my revision right now or watch the episode of Monarch of the Glen that I've on sky +. I may leave that for later though when I'm actually bored. Maybe a bit of job hunting before revision won't go a miss.

Style Crushes

 Gossip Girl Special, only a few episodes into season 4 and I'm already drooling over the fashion that the cast wear. My favourite is of course Serena (Blake Lively) although I am starting to love Vanessa's (Jessica Szohr) hippy styling.

Blake Lively:

  

      

 

Leighton Meester:

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Jessica Szohr:

    

Others: