tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38920637894845137232024-03-13T14:04:42.911+00:00(f)unfashionableShopping, London, food, film.... a little bit of what you fancy does you good
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-19181251567850864762015-04-15T22:31:00.000+01:002015-04-16T07:13:35.242+01:00Time to talk<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I haven't written a blog thingy for ages. After saying (again) I am going to try and blog more, I have done less and less and less. I've also done less talking to friends, picking up the phone seems so arduous. This isn't going to be about jackets or burgers, or running or travel, it's going to be about my dad.<br>
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Today was an unremarkable day in the main. I ran an induction session, and bumbled nervously through it, talking too quickly and finishing too early, leaving an awkward gap between me and the next speaker. I sent usual amount of emails (too many), and I got my eyebrows done at lunchtime. I bumped into someone I used to work with on the walk to the office, and finishing my run early because I bumped into someone I went to school with and haven't seen for 12 years, then caught a delayed train home. It's been a fairly humdrum day. Until my mum called to tell me that my dad had tried to take his own life this morning.<br>
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This last year has, in the main, been incredible. My Dave finished uni, we got married, we went to California, I got payrises and bonuses and finally a permanent role at my company, I turned 30, we went to Poland. I ran a half marathon and raised lots of money for charity, and we're looking at buying a house. On the flipside, we both lost our maternal grandmothers within months of each other, and my dad has been horribly ill, physically and mentally. <br>
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Last May my Dad told me on the phone he'd been having some aches and pains that he thought had something to do with when he fell of his bike 2 years (twice, once fracturing his pelvis, the other damaging his spine). By our June wedding, he was in constant pain, and on the day, although present he was a shadow of his former self.<br>
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My dad had travelled with my mum to Portugal, the first holiday for which they'd flown in my 30 years at least. My dad has Menieres disease, an inner ear condition and had been advised against air travel years before. However, they got invited to the Algarve and he visited the doctor who advised him that things had changed, he'd be ok flying a short distance. They went, and he said that while he didn't enjoy it, he didn't suffer because of it.<br>
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My dad did however get bitten by a tick while he was there and spent months convinced he had Lyme Disease as he started to experience nerve pain. By September, he was admitted to hospital and after detecting an irregular heartbeart, they fitted him with a pacemaker. I found this hard to take in at the time. My dad has been an obsessively fit cyclist since his late teens. He won the fire brigade cycling world championship in 1983. My dad's always been ferociously fit.<br>
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He had some tests and nothing was found. He was admitted to hospital again and spent most of December there. He had seen a consultant from Kings who had recommended IVIG treatment which might work with his condition, though it would take up to 5 weeks to have an effect. He finished his treatment on 23rd December, and we took him home on Christmas Eve to recuperate there.<br>
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Since his treatment had finished they said, all he was doing was taking painkillers, there was no need for him to be in hospital when he could do that in the comfort of his own hime, although I wondered how on earth anyone had signed him off as fit to leave as he was clearly in a distressed mental state by this point, months and months into worsening illness.<br>
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Over Christmas, he had a full-blown nervous breakdown, pacing the house, talking about how he was going to explode (from the pain) and take us all with him. How he'd fucked it all up. My dad was admitted to a mental health unit on 2nd January.<br>
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My dad caught pneumonia whilst he was there and was transferred to A&E. That's when I got the real heebie-jeebies and fled home from work, and went to visit him in the Kent hospital. My dad had a week at Kings scheduled for tests at the end of January so he was transferred straight there, but the tests were delayed because he developed a bowel problem, then a chest infection. He ended up there for 6 weeks. Tests were run. Nothing was found. Nothing at all.<br>
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This is perhaps good news in some ways. Ok, he's not terminal, he's not a dying man. However, he's been in irrefutable pain that nobody can explain and he thinks he's dying. Anyway, they said he'd be given steroids and physio and sent home, whcich he was, just a week or so later, on 2nd April, 3 months after his admittance in the first place.<br>
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I went home at the weekend and saw my parents for lunch on Sunday. My dad has lost 3 stone and dropped to 10.5 stone, and standing at 6'3" this is shockingly skinny, his jeans hang off him. We had some lunch in a Beefeater. He is defeated and hopeless-looking. He struggled still to hold a conversation, and had a permanent grimace, as if there was a bad smell in the air. He said the pain was much better but he's still struggling, but couldn't articulate any more. My mum, who has reached the end of her tether with it rolled her eyes at me in despair. I told them I'd see them again for lunch in two weeks time.<br>
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The mental health visitor had been the previous week and recommended some coping strategies, and that my parents gradually ring around their friends and fill them in on what's happened, let them know dad is home, and let them assist them with getting back to their normal routine. He was coming again tomorrow, to visit him at home.<br>
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This evening my mum called me to tell me that after two weeks of having him home, she'd gone back to work today, and that she received a call from the hospital at about 1pm, saying that my dad was with them following an attempt to take his own life. He'd attempted to slit his wrists, and then taken a load of sleeping pills. My dad said then thought he'd messed up the wrist-slitting and called an ambulance. We don't know if this was a pang of regret at what he'd done, a cry for help, or just that he wanted to die in hospital rather than have mum find him at home.<br>
<br>
I'm at a loss as to what to say about this turn of events. I just wanted to get it all written down. My mum, in her more old-fashioned ways is angry with him, he 'promised' he wouldn't do this and he's let her down in that respect. There's a lack of understanding of mental illness here, a sheer lack of comprehension of just how very unreasonable and irrational it all is. My dad apparently had a spate of depression when we were young children, and from what I can gather, it was nothing that being told to "pull himself together" wouldn't fix. But now I wonder if it ever truly went away.<br>
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We need more understanding and less stigmatisation of this things. I am not the first to say it and I will not be the last either. As someone who has never experienced such deep depression (excepting a 6 month stint of exam-based anxiety in my final year of university), it is difficult not to feel those feelings of anger at him, i,e. "how could he think of leaving us?" and "don't we mean anything to him?". I know we, his family mean the world to him, but this isn't about us, it's about these nasty monsters in his head, and us being angry with him is going to achieve nothing. We have to try and understand and have patience with his recovery from this awful, awful affliction.<br>
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My dad has missed Christmas, New Year, my mum's birthday, my 30th, my sister's birthday and Valentine's day, and hasn't been able to support my mum through the loss of her mother, because he's been trapped in this tormented world following this period of ill physical health.<br>
<br>
We just want him back. 2-3 stone heavier, able to get on his bike again even if not at racing standard. We even want his cynical Daily-Mail-Reader comments. We want his charming wry smile and cheesy jokes, and we want his sheer unadulterated glee upon seeing a funny Youtube video involving very stupid dogs.<br>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-48551285906111699352015-01-03T10:54:00.001+00:002015-01-03T10:58:02.483+00:00Running 2015. Building 2015. Owning 2015.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I haven't written anything on here for a really long time. Life has been busy, very very busy. Work has been crazy, we moved, we lost both our Grandmothers, my dad has been very, very unwell, and when I've not been busy, I've been playing BLOODY Candy Crush.<br />
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So...there's that. However, I've decided to abandon the Good Ship King at level 758, I've uninstalled it from my phone and tablet, and blocked it from my Facebook. Instead of playing, I am going to Get Shit Done this year. It's working already. The pile of stuff stacked in the window of our bedroom has been depleted since I've been sorting through it and decluttering the last couple of days.<br />
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I've also caught up with a couple of distant friends on the phone, and today I am going to an exhibition (<a href="http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/exhibitions/exhibition-horst-photographer-of-style/">Horst, V&A</a>) and for burgers with my close friends. At the beginning of each year, I am usually resolving to do <i>more</i>, see <i>more,</i> <i>enjoy</i> London, but by the end of the year I am in full-on hibernation mode and it takes all my <i>might</i> just to go to the local shops. Time to amp it up again - <a href="https://twitter.com/lovelaurelx">Laurel</a> and I are making a list of all the things we want to do in London (and out) this year, and making it happen (starting today). This will be the year we actually <i>make it</i> to Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, instead of just talking about it.<br />
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In 2015, I also turn 30. I am celebrating this by going to Poland. I'm calling it a pilgrimage since my beautiful Polish Nan passed away in July, while we were on honeymoon. We are going to Poznan and Warsaw, I've already identified some Airbnbs for us to stay in, we just need to get it booked in. I am looking forward to seeing the land that spawned my terrific Grandparents. See also: Pierogi.<br />
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I've also been running again. I have briefly dabbled in running before, to little effect, I half ran a 10k in 2011 but that was a half-arsed effort. This December, I completed a 10k, and I ran <i>the whole way</i>. It wasn't <i>fast</i> running, but it was most definitely running. I have also pledged to run 1000 miles in 2015 (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/1000miles2015?src=hash">#1000miles2015</a>), and, in a moment of madness, I signed up to the <a href="http://www.palacehalf.com/">Hampton Court Half Marathon</a> in March so am currently training for that.<br />
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On a selfish note, this helps me firm up and get fit, in time for my March birthday so I can feel good as I come-of-age. On a less selfish (I hope) note, I am also doing the half marathon as part of my fundraising effort for ActionAid, because in May, I AM GOING TO MOZAMBIQUE!<br />
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I am going as part of a team of 20 colleagues from my company, and we are aiming to raise in excess of £30,000 collectively to build a library in Ngongonhane, an area where there is no library, and because of the expensive travel to reach one, many children end up dropping out of school. Can you imagine being a situation where you have to leave compulsory education because you don't have access to books?! Being a privileged Westerner, I can't, which is why I am taking part in this project. We are going to be donning steel-capped boots, digging foundations, bricklaying and doing metalwork over 5 days in the area. We, with some help from our company have paid for our own flights and accomodation, so every penny donated to ActionAid will go to this project, not to fund us having a "jolly". You can sponsor me <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/KatiMozambique/">here</a>. Or if you like, you can sponsor me <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/KatiMozambique/">here</a>. Or <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/KatiMozambique/">here</a>. I think you get what I am trying to say.<br />
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After all this action, we also want to get round to settling down. We already decided to put off trying to start a family for a little longer, so that I can achieve the above, and so we can sort out our living situation. Currently we are living in my Grandparents' house, while probate happens and its future can be decided. If its future, once decided is that it's not worth very much, perhaps we can buy it. It's massively outdated, but certainly livable in for now and has huge potential. My grandparents bought it in 1963 and my mum grew up here, so the thought of being able to buy it and have our own family here is very exciting indeed.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-32870973781768399422014-08-10T14:27:00.000+01:002014-08-10T14:27:55.408+01:00Honeymooning: Coastal California<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Following our stay in San Francisco, we picked up our Mustang and headed down the coast towards LA, via Monterey and Carmel.<br />
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Highlights:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Our first <a href="https://www.airbnb.co.uk/users/show/260410#reviews">Airbnb with Mei</a> in Marina, near Monterey. Mei had 2 double rooms with another couple staying in the other. We borrowed her <a href="http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/">Monterey Bay Aquarium</a> passes at a discounted rate. Mei was friendly and helpful, and the Aquarium was awesome, an absolute must-see on your way down the coast</li>
<li><a href="http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/camontereycarmel/ss/17-mile-drive.htm">The Seventeen Mile Drive</a>. Awe-dropping views. It took us hours because we kept having to stop to take more and more photos. </li>
<li><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carmel-by-the-Sea,_California">Carmel</a> is a gorgeous, artsy little town, Clint Eastwood was once the mayor. An expensive place to stay, but we threw caution to the wind and stayed at the <a href="http://www.carmelmissioninn.com/">Carmel Mission Inn</a> in an awesome suite, and dined at <a href="http://www.rgburgers.com/">r.g's Burgers</a> (try the peanut butter and jelly milkshake).</li>
<li>Big Sur. Stunning. Just stunning. </li>
<li>Pismo Beach Sea Lions lolling in the sun.</li>
<li>Solvang, a Danish village in California. Obviously.</li>
</ul>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-73687598196291673902014-08-03T17:04:00.004+01:002015-01-03T10:56:21.747+00:00Honeymooning: San Francisco<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We got back from our California honeymoon nearly 3 weeks ago, which is about the same amount of time we were there for. It was awesome, but it feels like the memories are fading quicker than they should already, so I'm writing about it whilst I can still recall it.</div>
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Our first stop was San Francisco where we stayed for 3 nights at the <a href="http://www.argonauthotel.com/">Argonaut Hotel</a> at Fisherman's Wharf. It cost more than we would normally pay for a hotel but its nautical theme and prime location seemed to justify its cost, and it was our honeymoon, so if you can't go nuts on honeymoon when can you? There's a daily complimentary wine reception at the hotel but it' was at an awkward time of day and we were always out and about so we never made it but my cousin and his girlfriend stayed there a few years ago and loved it.</div>
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I loved San Francisco. I'm not going to give a blow-by-blow account, but some highlights for me included:</div>
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<li>The architecture. The Spanish influenced tiled stair cases and candy-coloured houses are just too cool.</li>
<li>Alcatraz. So eery. It's a must-see, and you have to buy tickets in advance. The low cloud over San Francisco, along with its invasion by seagulls only add to the spookiness of the legendary prison. While we were there, we met a former inmate, Bill Baker who had <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Alcatraz-1259-William-G-Baker/dp/148275407X">written a book about his stay</a> and signed a copy for us, and I am so looking forward to getting stuck into that.</li>
<li>The incredible food. Clam chowder in a huge sourdough breadbowl at Fisherman's Wharf, the biggest burrito in the world* at <a href="https://plus.google.com/103309884968659050265/about?gl=uk&hl=en">Taqueria Cancun</a>, Mission, the amazing pastrami sandwich at <a href="http://www.tommysjoynt.com/">Tommy's Joynt</a>, and Japantown and Chinatown's Asian fare, happy happy me.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.waltdisney.org/">Walt Disney Family Museum</a>. It's no Disneyland, but a classy homage to the legend of Walt Disney, telling the story of where he came from and who he came to be with classy relics, original drawings and awe-dropping early animations.</li>
<li>The Golden Gate Bridge. If you're going by car (which is essential for traversing California) you need to do it, just don't forget to prepay the <a href="http://goldengate.org/tolls/">toll</a>! We took the bridge on the way back in to San Francisco on the last day of our trip.</li>
<li>The shopping is pretty sweet too. We spent more time than we'd have wanted to shopping for clothing when our bags failed to arrive with us (husband's turned up 36 hours later, mine only arrived with me 3 days ago, back home, another story altogether) so <a href="http://www.oldnavy.com/">Old Navy</a> was one of our first stops, but we also found Japantown's Daiso and <a href="http://www.kinokuniya.com/us/">Kinokuniya</a> where I could happily have spent all day.</li>
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*I made this up, but it <i>was</i> big</div>
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In total we had about 3 and a half days in San Francisco. I could have happily stayed for much longer. It's an enormous city, and we only scratched the surface. happily go back and spend a week there, maybe more.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-89132121901518894262014-07-27T16:59:00.000+01:002014-07-27T17:02:33.437+01:00I Married Him.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I've been away or quite some time.Turns out getting married is quite time-consuming. I wanted to share here a few snaps from the day, courtesy of <a href="http://www.tracymorter.com/">Tracy Morter</a>. </div>
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<span id="goog_952705145"></span><span id="goog_952705146"></span><br />
It was the most perfect, but quickest day of our lives. I want to do it all again in slow motion. And being married is alright too.<br />
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We took a 3 week honeymoon in California. Every second of that was perfect too. Again it went to quickly, and here we are, light tans fading, settling back into London life. With a house move ahead we have another busy month coming up, but once we've settled in, I plan to blog much much more.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-33073216444712263292014-03-27T22:02:00.001+00:002014-03-29T09:46:54.342+00:00Jackets for Springtime<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I'm loving the variety of jackets, blazers and kimonos in the shops at the moment. Today I bought myself <a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/jackets-and-coats/navy-waterfall-blazer_293808641">this little number</a> from New Look. It comes in coral and mint too, but I opted for the navy for a more classic look.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F3fCOI9jXYY/UzSdcwfC_iI/AAAAAAAAD60/0TufJSQDCdY/s1600/293808641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F3fCOI9jXYY/UzSdcwfC_iI/AAAAAAAAD60/0TufJSQDCdY/s1600/293808641.jpg" height="256" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Look</td></tr>
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Then check out <a href="http://www.riverisland.com/women/holiday-shop?f_parent_category_names=471fb319-508f-45ad-9b13-a4901faa2414&f_list_price_gbp=39-100">River Island's massive collection of kimonos</a>. I'm loving <a href="http://www.riverisland.com/women/tops/kimonos/Blue-Tiger-print-satin-burnout-kimono-651141">this tiger one</a>. A stark contract to the purchase above!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gxvlfd66kp8/UzSeKtbxHDI/AAAAAAAAD68/j_MEc50Orfk/s1600/651141_main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gxvlfd66kp8/UzSeKtbxHDI/AAAAAAAAD68/j_MEc50Orfk/s1600/651141_main.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River Island</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-31770228675715211002014-03-26T20:02:00.000+00:002014-03-26T22:17:56.195+00:00Mad March<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
March has been a busy month with my birthday, the start of spring and the accompanying end to the season of hibernation. It's also now less than three months until our wedding, and time is starting to go really quickly and I don't really feel like I have time to breathe. Here's some quick photographic highlights from a lovely month.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_yyPGvibPng/UzMvzal2aEI/AAAAAAAAD5Y/UvpVVJ3ND4Y/s1600/P1000898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_yyPGvibPng/UzMvzal2aEI/AAAAAAAAD5Y/UvpVVJ3ND4Y/s1600/P1000898.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thekatirollcompany.com/">That's my name, don't wear it out....</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1MDt0Om_rZg/UzMyAFoX_xI/AAAAAAAAD6k/_fDxl7lnzL0/s1600/P1000901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1MDt0Om_rZg/UzMyAFoX_xI/AAAAAAAAD6k/_fDxl7lnzL0/s1600/P1000901.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I get to marry him...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGtIElFnwiQ/UzMv10geWeI/AAAAAAAAD5g/obku8xZJS58/s1600/P1000946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGtIElFnwiQ/UzMv10geWeI/AAAAAAAAD5g/obku8xZJS58/s1600/P1000946.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blending in at Woolwich Arsenal</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1actCKfjQns/UzMv8c8A_tI/AAAAAAAAD5w/G8BgyGmRYac/s1600/P1000950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1actCKfjQns/UzMv8c8A_tI/AAAAAAAAD5w/G8BgyGmRYac/s1600/P1000950.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glorious York Minster</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_3teojPHnI4/UzMv7f1RQAI/AAAAAAAAD5o/ZDXDmQMP51o/s1600/P1000969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_3teojPHnI4/UzMv7f1RQAI/AAAAAAAAD5o/ZDXDmQMP51o/s1600/P1000969.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.classiccarbootsale.co.uk/">It's 106 miles to Chicago, we gotta full tank of gas,half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark...and we're wearing sunglasses</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jI6r_eIkS6c/UzMv9ZMBYxI/AAAAAAAAD50/vS-98HYJ32g/s1600/P1000972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jI6r_eIkS6c/UzMv9ZMBYxI/AAAAAAAAD50/vS-98HYJ32g/s1600/P1000972.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First throes of Spring London</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oafHf96x-nE/UzMwCiiyCjI/AAAAAAAAD6A/u_bn0GWADAY/s1600/P1000979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oafHf96x-nE/UzMwCiiyCjI/AAAAAAAAD6A/u_bn0GWADAY/s1600/P1000979.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take me up the Shard </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-omV0uXguafg/UzMwDUR07TI/AAAAAAAAD6I/7ZcllgZLORU/s1600/P1000989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-omV0uXguafg/UzMwDUR07TI/AAAAAAAAD6I/7ZcllgZLORU/s1600/P1000989.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An impressive balancing act</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgxyf8KHw7E/UzMwEvh475I/AAAAAAAAD6Q/JyqKM-y72FQ/s1600/P1000996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgxyf8KHw7E/UzMwEvh475I/AAAAAAAAD6Q/JyqKM-y72FQ/s1600/P1000996.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mind. Blown.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7rkHLKBw1s/UzMwFyaSjtI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/bpWZhqy5wIU/s1600/P1000999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7rkHLKBw1s/UzMwFyaSjtI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/bpWZhqy5wIU/s1600/P1000999.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peaks</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-57260106170317082412014-03-16T18:14:00.002+00:002014-03-16T18:14:53.195+00:00Summer wishlisting<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
I popped up to York on Monday with my mum to meet up with my little sister. My mum found train tickets for just £5 each way from London (wonder where I get the bargain-hunting from?!) so I took the day off and made it a long weekend, seeing as it was also my birthday this week (last year of my twenties!!). We had a gorgeous lunch in <a href="http://www.rustiquerestaurants.co.uk/">Rustique</a> and then set about finding my sister a bridesmaid dress for the wedding of the year coming up in only just over 3 months now.</div>
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There were some fraught moments where we thought we weren't going to find anything and we nearly panic-overspent on a not quite perfect one, but we finally found this one in Warehouse, which we were all happy with. It's a gorgeous dress, the colours are right, and the laidback style fits the day perfectly. And it's essentially a summer maxi dress, which she can wear again, if I don't take it for myself!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xfdxe48bAdc/UyXfz2Ao5OI/AAAAAAAADyw/cuI-RWi76Uw/s1600/5563101886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xfdxe48bAdc/UyXfz2Ao5OI/AAAAAAAADyw/cuI-RWi76Uw/s1600/5563101886.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.warehouse.co.uk/lava-stripe-maxi-dress/all/warehouse/fcp-product/5563101886">Warehouse</a> </td></tr>
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<br />
Whilst wandering around all the shops of York I found all these other beauties, which are firmly on my California honeymoon shopping list!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b3w3nxUinCM/UyXf0kWo7hI/AAAAAAAADy4/prD7QV41YTU/s1600/650063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b3w3nxUinCM/UyXf0kWo7hI/AAAAAAAADy4/prD7QV41YTU/s1600/650063.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.next.co.uk/X53226s6#650063X53">Next </a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UFpZ-jRZREw/UyXf00dGYuI/AAAAAAAADy0/yK80WFXueKI/s1600/I_5051741504567_50_20131231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UFpZ-jRZREw/UyXf00dGYuI/AAAAAAAADy0/yK80WFXueKI/s1600/I_5051741504567_50_20131231.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Yumi+Map+print+dress/196672723,default,pd.html?cm_mmc=Google+Shopping-_-Product+Extensions+And+Listings-_-Yumi-_-_Yumi+Map+print+dress&$$ja=cgid:7041939715|tsid:44970|cid:146504515|lid:56008342795|nw:g|crid:29474249275|rnd:9207774372115467367|dvc:c|adp:1o2|mt:">Yumi</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zYtnB8BeEoI/UyXf1md9T_I/AAAAAAAADzA/fHe0g04BgC0/s1600/I_5051741519141_50_20140107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zYtnB8BeEoI/UyXf1md9T_I/AAAAAAAADzA/fHe0g04BgC0/s1600/I_5051741519141_50_20140107.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Uttam+Boutique+Mosaic+print+dress/196036511,default,pd.html?cm_mmc=Google+Shopping-_-Product+Extensions+And+Listings-_-Uttam+Boutique-_-_Uttam+Boutique+Mosaic+print+dress&$$ja=cgid:7042163635|tsid:44970|cid:146504515|lid:56008341835|nw:g|crid:29474243035|rnd:1672934318290911270|dvc:c|adp:1o2|mt:">Yumi</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cgJeYz3jEHE/UyXjx4l9luI/AAAAAAAADzY/Y50htp-5960/s1600/064020116145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cgJeYz3jEHE/UyXjx4l9luI/AAAAAAAADzY/Y50htp-5960/s1600/064020116145.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_064020116145_-1">Debenhams</a></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-52268175600999603832014-02-24T21:39:00.002+00:002014-02-24T21:39:37.893+00:00Grown Up Style at The White Stuff<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Blogging has once again taken a back seat, as I've been catapaulting back and forth between London and Sheffield, getting into my new job, and sorting out wedding invitations.<br />
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Last weekend back in Sheffield though, I made a startling realisation. I am getting older and the sorts of fashion shops that once were hugely appealing are no longer so. We were in <a href="http://www.debenhams.com/">Debenhams</a> and I was struggling to find anything in the usual concessions stands that I had any interest in. Those "younger" concessions have their place, i.e. Warehouse and Oasis do great party dresses but I struggled to find anything I would wear day-to-day.<br />
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We trotted on to John Lewis and I found abundant clothes that I was much more drawn to. I ended up bringing home this <a href="http://www.whitestuff.com/birds-of-a-feather-tunic-prod408144_dk_feather/">delightful tunic/dress</a> from <a href="http://www.whitestuff.com/">White Stuff</a>, a range I've never normally even thought about but that I've actually come to like a lot, and they have a <a href="http://www.whitestuff.com/sale-dept1000080_pg1/">great sale at the moment</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zC6TTOORaLM/UwnkRhqa_bI/AAAAAAAADJo/M5UekFyg4Ek/s1600/408144_DK_FEATHER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zC6TTOORaLM/UwnkRhqa_bI/AAAAAAAADJo/M5UekFyg4Ek/s1600/408144_DK_FEATHER.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.whitestuff.com/birds-of-a-feather-tunic-prod408144_dk_feather/">Birds of a Feather tunic</a></td></tr>
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Whilst I've also been used to dressing quite "officey" for work, things are a lot more laid back at my new company so I am looking to tone it down a little, and I think this fits the bill perfectly for a laidback office day or weekend wear. It can be worn with jeans, leggings, tights or even maybe *whispers* bare-legged in the summer.<br />
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Other other current bits I like which would be suitable for work or play:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-visoLJFYArQ/UwnoEBJoelI/AAAAAAAADJ0/ikUQ6x4poxM/s1600/408492_DK_MARROW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-visoLJFYArQ/UwnoEBJoelI/AAAAAAAADJ0/ikUQ6x4poxM/s1600/408492_DK_MARROW.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.whitestuff.com/butterfly-scoop-dress-prod408492_dk_marrow/">Butterfly Scoop Dress</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VrE4CjdHyOw/UwnplzbvroI/AAAAAAAADKA/njOH0PeAYjU/s1600/409889_ROUGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VrE4CjdHyOw/UwnplzbvroI/AAAAAAAADKA/njOH0PeAYjU/s1600/409889_ROUGE.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.whitestuff.com/summer-bird-dress-prod409889_rouge/">Summer Bird Dress</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9x1mEfWYHII/Uwu7sOLOa2I/AAAAAAAADKw/9tkwyubo_vI/s1600/408742_JEWELLED_J.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9x1mEfWYHII/Uwu7sOLOa2I/AAAAAAAADKw/9tkwyubo_vI/s1600/408742_JEWELLED_J.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.whitestuff.com/cameramatic-dress-prod408742_jewelled_j/?src=ls">Cameramatic dress</a></td></tr>
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I also adore the fact that White Stuff are a socially responsible company, supporting local charities, and believing in "being different, making a difference and making the world a little happier" (from <a href="http://www.whitestuff.com/article-artlabout/">here</a>) and their <a href="http://www.whitestuff.com/article-artlfoundation_about/?icn=Wk41_spring_about_us_ws_foundation_">White Stuff Foundation</a> works with disadvantaged children and young people, giving 1% of the company's annual profits to good causes. That just makes me feel <i>warm</i> inside.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-61962176811374647792014-02-09T19:28:00.001+00:002014-02-23T12:03:27.283+00:00Elle's Benefit Party<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The opportunity came for me to change jobs quite suddenly in the last week so it's been manic, but I am pleased to be starting a new role tomorrow in a bigger firm which I am very excited about - but also nervous!!! My blogging is sporadic I know, you know when you set aside time to do something and all of a sudden everything changes and there just ain't no <i>time</i>?!!</div>
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Anyway, this week I attended Elle's party at the Benefit store on Carnaby Street, which was a fantastic occasion. I got a fantastic brow wax which I am very pleased with - usually I go for threading so I was amazed at how precise they were able to be and for £12 it wasn't unreasonable. I had my brows filled in a little too with <a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk/product/view/brow-zings">Brow Zings</a>, which was a lot more dramatic than I'm used to with all those angles, but it seemed to wear off by the time I got home leaving me looking a lot more like me!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mo' Brow<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uDcRx0XOCPc/UvfVAHA53EI/AAAAAAAAC7k/U86BnBqCQXo/s1600/P1000820.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uDcRx0XOCPc/UvfVAHA53EI/AAAAAAAAC7k/U86BnBqCQXo/s1600/P1000820.RW2" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Au Naturel today</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">There were macaroons and fizz to enjoy while </span><a href="https://twitter.com/Lisa_Benefit" style="font-size: small;">Lisa Potter Dixon, Head Makeup Artist</a><span style="font-size: small;"> at Benefit and the </span><a href="https://twitter.com/ELLEBEAUTYTEAM" style="font-size: small;">Elle Beauty team</a><span style="font-size: small;"> talked us through the latest beauty trends, and a Q&A from which I took home some wonderful tips, including double cleansing, where to apply eye cream (<i>all around</i> the socket) and a teensy little goodie bag containing <a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk/product/view/lollitint">Lollitint</a>, Benefit's latest addition to the lip and cheek stain family - as yet I am not convinced so will go for some more experimentation over the coming week, perhaps at my new job! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I am also looking forward very much to Benefit's new brow product, Gimme Brow, a brush-on product which is "brow volumising fibre gel"</span><span style="font-size: small;">, coming to the market in March, which can't come any quicker - some heavy birthday hints to be dropped I think!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-78521360158872098952014-01-26T21:06:00.001+00:002014-01-26T21:49:57.587+00:00Weekending in Kent (and some gratuitious TKMAXXtion)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've spent the weekend at home in Kent as it was my mum's birthday today. The weekend started with a quix night at my old school, with my parents and their friends. Rock'n'roll me, huh? My parents were going anyway so I just took the train straight from London and met them at the school. The quiz was run by my old deputy head, and I did a double take when I saw him and exclaimed, "bloody hell", to which he replied, "yeah alright, you look old too". Thanks a lot Mr Smith! It was a fun night, though we didn't win, boo hoo!<br />
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On Saturday, ma and I hauled out all of the blue glassware she's collected from charity shops for our impending wedding and arranged them in lots per table, and boxed them up - super organised given it's five months away! This meant we could see whether we needed any more and act accordingly.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Nuff glass?</td></tr>
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We called in at Majestic Wine Warehouse to enquire about booze for the wedding, and a local florist to enquire about flowers for the same, and then went off to Hythe to scour the charity shops for the last 4 or 5 bits of blue glass we need. We didn't have much success, but I managed to pick up an old Lonely Planet guide to California for the honeymoon that dreams were made of.<br />
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I treated mum to lunch and a coffee at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nutmegcafehythe?rf=148690078509728">Nutmeg Cafe</a>, where we dined on a lovely Mediterranean platter for two. This was a gorgeous little cafe, very cosy, with good coffee and lovely decor, including the tag-adorned map above, I assume the tags relate to visitors to the cafe from around the world. We didn't add a tag as being from the down the road wasn't nearly as interesting as some of other tags!<br />
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We called in at the <a href="http://www.dandi.me.uk/folkestone/malthouse/thumbs.htm">Malthouse Arcade</a> indoor vintage market, but at this point we only had a few minutes parking left so we had to make it a quick one, but I'll definitely go back for a good poke around, it was a treasure trove. We also stopped at Station Antiques at Appledore on the way home for a ganders, where I fell in love with several gorgeous pieces of lovingly reupholstered furniture.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A quick snap of the seafront, St Mary's Bay<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">On Saturday evening, I came across all of the family photo albums in my old room, and went through every last one of them</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g71XL17lqno/UuVwjTi5jGI/AAAAAAAACx8/pWly3NN0XqU/s1600/1390683303861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g71XL17lqno/UuVwjTi5jGI/AAAAAAAACx8/pWly3NN0XqU/s1600/1390683303861.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me at 14 weeks, little chubber</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MvHxtvVrM9g/UuV03TFwaVI/AAAAAAAACzs/a55spwD0Jhw/s1600/20140126_100333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MvHxtvVrM9g/UuV03TFwaVI/AAAAAAAACzs/a55spwD0Jhw/s1600/20140126_100333.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My parents at a dinner dance, pre-me, a handsome pair</td></tr>
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This morning I woke up with a sore neck. I ignored it and proceeded to raid my younger, cooler sister's wardrobe for all the clothes she left behind - if she's at uni in Newcastle, then she definitely ain't wearing the clothes she left behind in Kent, it's not geographically possible. I pinched thisemboridered jacket and a gorgeous dress from Warehouse, which <i>of course</i> she can have back if she wants them. But I won't be reminding her of them.</div>
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After this, I had high hopes for a trip up to the loft to find some of my old junk, but my neck pain was bothering me. I hoped a quick rest in downward dog was set me right, but this was a big mistake. Huge. I ended up pulling something really badly, and was unable to move my head without intense pain for a good hour. </div>
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I eventually got a little range of motion back and we trundled onto Boots to pick up some pain relief, where I also picked up some of my old trusty <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/No7-Beautiful-Skin-Quick-Thinking-Wipes_1245008/">No7 wipes</a> with the £5 off voucher, some nail varnishes for mum, and some <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Soap-Glory%C2%99-The-Fab-Pore%C2%99-Daily-Micro-Smoothing-Moisture-Lotion_1364148/">Soap and Glory The Fab Pore</a>, which was reduced to clear at just £1.99. No idea why as it's still sold for £8 on the their website, but I am looking forward to this transforming my skin. We headed onto <a href="http://www.tkmaxx.com/">TK Maxx</a>, where I devoured the homeware range.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3rRmWl_Kt5Y/UuVw5NhoO3I/AAAAAAAACyU/dcovajWzbtk/s1600/20140126_151931+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3rRmWl_Kt5Y/UuVw5NhoO3I/AAAAAAAACyU/dcovajWzbtk/s1600/20140126_151931+%25281%2529.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Love these cushions </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cp-SdiS09ZY/UuVxFCNVv5I/AAAAAAAACyc/w871Rl9VUXo/s1600/20140126_151942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cp-SdiS09ZY/UuVxFCNVv5I/AAAAAAAACyc/w871Rl9VUXo/s1600/20140126_151942.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing jewellery box, £24.99. Major birthday hints dropped to mum</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FS-T1rZw5a8/UuVxG4VtiNI/AAAAAAAACyk/wgpocCWmv8k/s1600/20140126_151948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FS-T1rZw5a8/UuVxG4VtiNI/AAAAAAAACyk/wgpocCWmv8k/s1600/20140126_151948.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous storage box, £14.99</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NsXgD_2wLTI/UuVxIhKolfI/AAAAAAAACys/KQcPhwz6xtM/s1600/20140126_153038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NsXgD_2wLTI/UuVxIhKolfI/AAAAAAAACys/KQcPhwz6xtM/s1600/20140126_153038.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phwoar at this <a href="http://www.designersguild.com/">Designers Guild</a> chair, £399.99</td></tr>
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We finished up at the <a href="http://www.mcarthurglen.com/uk/ashford-designer-outlet/en/">McArthur Glen</a> outlet where I hobbled around trying not to move my head too much, and saw many treasures I am too poor for, before I took the train back to London, armed with my goodies in a wheelie suitcase that my parents lent me so I wouldn't have to carry a heavy bag. Waiter, more <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Voltarol/">Voltarol!</a>!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ELNEcqH9R44/UuVx-RnDyCI/AAAAAAAACzY/PJyHrRxl_9U/s1600/P1000709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ELNEcqH9R44/UuVx-RnDyCI/AAAAAAAACzY/PJyHrRxl_9U/s1600/P1000709.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stormy skies over the outlet</td></tr>
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Happy Sunday night everyone, I hope I sleep this neck pain off!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-62320895496629803862014-01-19T21:59:00.001+00:002014-01-19T22:00:44.887+00:00Weekending in Sheffield<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've just returned from a weekend seeing my beau in Sheffield, and what a wonderful weekend it was! We kicked off Friday evening with a homemade chilli and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112641/">Casino</a>, a film we've owned for about 5 years and always been put off watching on the basis that it's 3 hours long, but this time we were ready for it.<br />
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A few nights before I went to visit, my mister uttered over Skype these words, "Darling....you know my suit we bought for the wedding? I think I want something different now...." before showing me <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/daveramsden79/the-look/">this board he'd made on Pinterest</a>. Up for a challenge we spent all of Saturday trawling Sheffield city centre charity, vintage and high street shops for a good alternative. We didn't find one this time but he did pick up <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Sartorial-Button-Herringbone-Check-Jacket/dp/B001F8SE6S?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_20&nodeId=198179031&sr=1-20&qid=1390166702">a spectacularly bargain jacket at just £28.99 in M&S</a> (one shade darker than this one, I can't find his on the website). Unfortunately there are no matching trousers, but the mister has a real thing for jackets so he'll be wearing it all the time in a non wedding capacity, in rotation with the fantastical tweed one I got him for Christmas (another charity shop find).<br />
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During my trawling of Sheffield charity shops, I came across <a href="http://www.tasteguides.co.uk/#/about-taste-britain/4539644994">this beautiful book</a> for just £1, a stellar additional to my addiction to food books. It's a fantastic book highlighting the very best places for the very best foods in the UK.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Of_6UYuP_Q/UtxDsWElQjI/AAAAAAAAClk/Cb098LMsxPE/s1600/Taste-Britain-9781906889050-Cover-798x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Of_6UYuP_Q/UtxDsWElQjI/AAAAAAAAClk/Cb098LMsxPE/s1600/Taste-Britain-9781906889050-Cover-798x1024.jpg" height="640" width="498" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.punkpublishing.co.uk/quote-post/taste-britain-9781906889050-cover/">source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
I also picked up some <a href="http://www.lanocreme.com/en/C47/Manuka-Honey.aspx">Lanocreme Manuka Honey eye cream</a> in TK Maxx for £5.99. I've just idly started looking for an eye cream to reduce the dark circles under my eyes, so thought I'd give this one a whirl, it's worth a punt at that price - let's banish those circles for good!</div>
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We took a drink in the <a href="http://www.thegatsbybar.co.uk/">Great Gatsby</a> on Division Street after exploring all of the lovely shops - so many have popped up since I've moved away, and I always love a good poke around <a href="http://withinreason.co.uk/">Within Reason</a> especially.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7WXV4fNTN6M/UtxE3z2rvtI/AAAAAAAACmE/rVmRsRnimag/s1600/P1000666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7WXV4fNTN6M/UtxE3z2rvtI/AAAAAAAACmE/rVmRsRnimag/s1600/P1000666.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Gardens</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e9FamKEI0hw/UtxEy0eUzZI/AAAAAAAACl0/y0JwexRRzaQ/s1600/P1000677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e9FamKEI0hw/UtxEy0eUzZI/AAAAAAAACl0/y0JwexRRzaQ/s1600/P1000677.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oozing Peanut Butter</td></tr>
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We wandered through the <a href="https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/gardens/the-winter-garden">Winter Gardens</a> before heading on to <a href="http://www.mudcrabindustries.co.uk/">Mudcrab</a>. We'd been talking about going to Mudcrab for at least a week before my visit so this was hotly anticipated, I love it there. We shared cheesy garlic bread and fried chicken (amazing) then went on to our burger mains. I had the Geek USA burger which is a THREE patty burger with peanut butter and a fried egg. Astonishing. We couldn't even finish our chips, and I <i>never </i>leave food on my plate! The staff were all really friendly and attentive, and the bill came to only about £51 for two starters, two burgers and two cocktails each (it was happy hour til 7).</div>
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After a full day of fun, we walked back to the Boy's house, where I changed into his pyjamas, drank wine from a mug and we watched <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0361748/">Inglourious Basterds</a> again, because it's amazing.</div>
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This morning, we overdosed on coffee whilst booking our honeymoon flights - We are off to San Francisco 3 days after our wedding! We're planning to do a bit of a road trip, based on <a href="http://www.statravel.co.uk/tours-and-treks/North-America-&-Canada/Wild-Western-3-WWAWA09">this little itinerary we pilfered from STA Travel</a>. We booked our flights through Opodo, flying from Belfast as its £300 cheaper each than flying from London (even though we have to pass back through London!?). We'll marry on the Saturday, tidy up our venue and make our way home to London on the Sunday, make our way to Belfast on Monday and fly to California on Tuesday for 3 whole weeks. I'm collecting tips and tricks so if anyone has been on a similar adventure please feel free to share, we'd be very grateful.</div>
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<div>
Making my way home to London was boring, saying goodbye is always hard but after such a lovely weekend, I left with a smile on my face and the reminder that being apart isn't forever. Thank you Sheffield, and thank you Dave for another incredible weekend, I can't wait for more.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SbcpQxhsSwQ/UtxE3wwf7bI/AAAAAAAACmA/F_GTAInOljw/s1600/P1000681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SbcpQxhsSwQ/UtxE3wwf7bI/AAAAAAAACmA/F_GTAInOljw/s1600/P1000681.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bye bye Sheffield</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-84424153376434677292014-01-07T21:39:00.000+00:002014-01-07T21:39:04.987+00:002014, Year On a (Running) Shoestring <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's been a whole month since I've blogged anything at all, which is very naughty indeed. December was busy as ever with Christmas parties, meals and get-togethers. And cake. Lots of cake.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mK9hgMs6PBQ/Usxv-gk9fPI/AAAAAAAACeY/OnZQiujJUX8/s1600/IMG_20131226_162856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mK9hgMs6PBQ/Usxv-gk9fPI/AAAAAAAACeY/OnZQiujJUX8/s1600/IMG_20131226_162856.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots</td></tr>
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My Beloved came back from Sheffield to join me for the Christmas break, and it was so amazing to be with him for a prolonged period. Since he's been studying back in the North, we've only had 3 nights together at a time for the whole semester, which puts a lot of pressure on you to have fun <i>all the time</i>, and makes those deep and meaningful conversations all the more urgent, but having him here with me in London for 2 1/2 weeks meant we could relax a bit and enjoy each other's company without always having one eye on the clock. I know lots of people are in long-distance relationships and I am not the only one going through this, but after 6 years of living together it can be incredibly difficult to adjust to a different life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v04VBVNh574/Usxv9wiXKxI/AAAAAAAACeQ/EuEInX14ACA/s1600/IMG_20131225_151042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v04VBVNh574/Usxv9wiXKxI/AAAAAAAACeQ/EuEInX14ACA/s1600/IMG_20131225_151042.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Him.</td></tr>
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Anyway, happy new year! This year, big things are happening.In June, he graduates, we get married, we go on honeymoon (to the US we hope), he starts his dream job and we set up home together once more! All this means that money needs to be saved, and after Christmas I am finding myself hyperventilating over the paltry sums in my current and savings accounts. Things are supertight in Funfashionable Towers, which means achieving my resolution to make the most of every day is going to be trickier, without masses of cash to throw at the situation.<br />
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Whilst everyone is frantically joining gyms and detoxing away, I made the decision today to <i>cancel</i> my gym membership. Like everyone else, I've gained a couple too many pounds after a month of over-indulgence, but if I want to get myself back on track financially, I need to cut back wherever I can and as my membership is £47.50 a month I'm finding it very hard to justify.<br />
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I visited earlier with every intention of cancelling but was told about the additional option to freeze my membership, for £10 a month for up to 3 months. This will save me £112.50 over 3 months, and means that if I manage to get myself into a good routine of exercising outside, I can go ahead and cancel anyway, but if I decide I miss my yoga and pilates classes too much and am in a better financial position, I can resume my membership without having to pay a joining fee again.<br />
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So here's the plan, fitness wise:<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>I freeze my membership for the three months - I probably get to keep using it until a certain point in the month</li>
<li>I start walking from Waterloo rather than Charing Cross to get to work, and Forest Hill rather than Sydenham to get home. That's an extra 1.1 mile a day.</li>
<li>I pick up <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Run-Fat-Bitch-Ruth-Field/dp/184744542X">Run, Fat Bitch Run</a> again, and actually read it (I received it last Christmas but never finished it, probably in fear that if I carried on reading, I'd have to actually start running). </li>
<li>I actually run.</li>
<li>I find some decent yoga videos online and crack out the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Jillian-Michaels-Day-Shred-DVD/dp/B002RNOS2Y">30 Day Shred DVD</a> once more.</li>
<li>I drink far more water than I do now.</li>
</ul>
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If you know of any great online workouts I'd love to hear about them, I'm looking to keep things interesting!</div>
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I mentioned making the most of every day. What I mean it, I don't want to feel like I spent this whole academic year away from the Boy yearning for him and sitting around waiting to see him, these are my last few months as an unmarried woman! I want to enjoy myself, I want to get out there, see my friends, meet new people, enjoy all London has to offer, and generally feel like I'm getting the most out of every opportunity that comes my way. This can be tricky on a shoe string, but there are plenty of free events and interesting things to do that don't cost the earth, so I am on the look out for every chance to spend a little, but live a lot!</div>
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My resolutions:</div>
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1. Have fun. All the time.</div>
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2. Stay off the cigs (I've had a very on off, on off year in my ongoing battle against nicotine, but I'm 2 1/2 weeks into my latest, and what I hope will be my <i>final </i>quit attempt)</div>
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3. Get fit. Get to the goal weight I just touched on before Christmas festivities took over, and <i>stay there</i>.</div>
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4. Make the most of my new camera. Get better at using it, be creative and confident with it, this is something we are hoping to do together once he's finished uni and is back for good, but it can't hurt to get a good start.</div>
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5. Be better at staying in touch with friends.</div>
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6. Be creative, sew more, procrastinate less. </div>
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7. Read a book a week, and try and get some classics in there too.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qepokux0XSc/Usxwti2brNI/AAAAAAAACeg/b-3yUZ_SbBE/s1600/P1000621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qepokux0XSc/Usxwti2brNI/AAAAAAAACeg/b-3yUZ_SbBE/s1600/P1000621.JPG" height="640" width="594" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy 2014!</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-79786721278076042272013-12-07T20:20:00.000+00:002013-12-07T20:21:25.192+00:00Cosy Kettle at Somers Town Coffee House<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've just found the yummiest, scrummiest bar in town. <a href="http://www.thesomerstowncoffeehouse.co.uk/Cosy_Kettle.html">Cosy Kettle</a> is the new cocktail bar downstairs at the <a href="http://www.thesomerstowncoffeehouse.co.uk/Welcome.html">Somers Town Coffee House</a> at Euston/King's Cross. Cosy by name, cosy by nature, this underground cellar with its comfy sofas and higgeldy piggeldy bookshelves serves a wonderful array of classic cocktails as well as some modern specials.<br />
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The big idea is.... coupling cocktails with cake! I like cake. I like cocktails. This is surely a winning combination. We sampled the battenburg special, a mini battenburg served with a cocktail, containing apricot liquer, chambord and a host of other yummy ingedients which I can't quite remember (hic!) in a combination designed to complement the cake itself. LUSH.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCbyhKlgea4/UqOCOP6u4WI/AAAAAAAAB78/hVC5wFOH1Cc/s1600/IMG_20131205_231635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCbyhKlgea4/UqOCOP6u4WI/AAAAAAAAB78/hVC5wFOH1Cc/s640/IMG_20131205_231635.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Batten, the Burg and the Battenburg</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I also tried the Lynchburg Lemondade, a strong, long drink made with Jack Daniels and triple sec, while my buddy had the Apple a Day which was also lipsmackingly good.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RCqhO889l_8/UqOCOfHJ9nI/AAAAAAAAB74/XoQzgQ1m0eE/s1600/IMG_20131205_231923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RCqhO889l_8/UqOCOfHJ9nI/AAAAAAAAB74/XoQzgQ1m0eE/s640/IMG_20131205_231923.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lynchburg Lemonade and An Apple a Day</td></tr>
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Cosy Kettle is about enjoying a drink and relaxing, and ultimately telling the snobbery around cocktails to <i>do one</i>. And what better way to get rid of the snobs than to shake a cake at them?<br />
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Cocktails come at around £8-9 each and the bar is open Tuesday to Saturday, licensed to 3am.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-41856664018693550542013-11-24T10:28:00.001+00:002013-11-24T10:29:13.320+00:00My Christmas Wishlist<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Christmas is one month and one day away, better get my shopping started. But it's Sunday and that means it's a day of <i>rest </i>so instead I am going to bang on about the stuff I want for my greedy self! I keep my wishlist on <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/" target="_blank">amazon.co.uk</a>, because you can add items from any site using the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/wishlist/universal/ref=wl_eywl_uwl" target="_blank">Universal Wish List button</a>, and it's an easy way for my mum (who treats Christmas as a military operation) to make sure my relatives don't all buy me the same thing!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sVtfEOIw88k/UpHPJ39Om7I/AAAAAAAABpE/aCV_NXRzWSI/s1600/107682-0014_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sVtfEOIw88k/UpHPJ39Om7I/AAAAAAAABpE/aCV_NXRzWSI/s640/107682-0014_1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://nelly.com/uk/womens-fashion/underwear/socks/oroblu-11093/oroblu-wool-over-knee-107682-14/?utm_source=affwin&utm_medium=cpo&utm_campaign=affwin_136348" target="_blank">Nelly.com - Orublu Over Knee Socks</a><br />
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Overknee socks are so awesome, maybe I'll team them up with a tartan skirt suit. Then I'd be a total betty.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GcE0x9Rx2PA/UpHPhYgdXVI/AAAAAAAABpQ/ctl-xPQT2RQ/s1600/0602_123901920099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GcE0x9Rx2PA/UpHPhYgdXVI/AAAAAAAABpQ/ctl-xPQT2RQ/s640/0602_123901920099.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_123901920099?CMP=SSH&tmcampid=28&tmad=c&sku=4675704&gclid=CLG7856W_boCFRIPtAodtA4ACw" target="_blank">Benefit High Beam</a></td></tr>
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Benefit's High Beam rocks my world. A bottle lasts for ages, but I am nearly out.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djx2MmQXJYA/UpHQtEmNdCI/AAAAAAAABpY/_QK-WSz6168/s1600/image1xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djx2MmQXJYA/UpHQtEmNdCI/AAAAAAAABpY/_QK-WSz6168/s640/image1xl.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Heart-Elbow-Patch-Jumper/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2249274&cid=2637&Rf900=4030&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=9999&sort=-1&clr=Black&utm_source=Affiliate&utm_medium=LinkShare&utm_content=UKNetwork.3010940&utm_campaign=QFGLnEolOWg&cvosrc=Affiliate.LinkShare.QFGLnEolOWg&link=15&promo=273171&source=linkshare&MID=35718&affid=2134&WT.tsrc=Affiliate&siteID=QFGLnEolOWg-8p3b6HsELZ10HTTtZXztFg">Asos.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I heart this jumper. Way to wear your heart on your sleeve.<br />
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<div>
<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Soap-Glory%E2%84%A2-Wish-Upon-a-Jar%E2%84%A2-Peptide-Plus-Rejuvenating-Night-Cream-45ml_1364158/">Soap and Glory's Wish Upon a Jar</a> is also firmly on my list. Apparently it <i>transforms</i> your skin in 21 days. I'll have some of that. Thank you please. See this <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Soap-Glory%E2%84%A2-Wish-Upon-a-Jar%E2%84%A2-Peptide-Plus-Rejuvenating-Night-Cream-45ml_1364158/">youtube review</a>.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5rCvuZfc6xs/UpHS4NRAB8I/AAAAAAAABpk/N17Gwv7QLPs/s1600/il_570xN.359212962_ocmn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5rCvuZfc6xs/UpHS4NRAB8I/AAAAAAAABpk/N17Gwv7QLPs/s640/il_570xN.359212962_ocmn.jpg" width="536" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/111834993/dr-seuss-quote-read-modern-art-print?ref=shop_home_active">Etsy.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This Dr Seuss print is the coolest.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8fw_v_I1MQ/UpHTOVoC0bI/AAAAAAAABps/dtp6THc6E-w/s1600/BKF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8fw_v_I1MQ/UpHTOVoC0bI/AAAAAAAABps/dtp6THc6E-w/s640/BKF.jpg" width="326" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.foliosociety.com/book/BKF/breakfast-at-tiffanys">Folio Society</a></td></tr>
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I love Folio Society books, they are so elegant. I want this copy of Breakfast at Tiffany's.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Muppet-Show-Season-DVD/dp/B000B7VZJC/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2PHFGFJA2536O&coliid=IA8M8Y2L71V7">The Muppet Show</a></td></tr>
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I have an alarming number of Muppets DVDs on my wishlist. I love them! Have you seen the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FV5x6QMuYjg">trailer for the new movie</a>? I can't wait for it to come out.</div>
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Aside from this, I've got some fairly boring stuff on my wishlist, new knickers, shampoo, that kind of thing. I hate having to spend money on staple items, so if I can get those things for Christmas, it means more cash to save, spend on holidays and meals with friends!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-29206973677777619842013-11-01T20:37:00.000+00:002013-11-01T20:37:01.453+00:00South London Sightseeing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've been adventuring again with the new camera...I do so love it. Last weekend the Boy came to visit, and we decided to save some cash and stay close to home.<br />
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On Saturday, our adventures took us first to Crystal Palace Park, where we <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crystal_Palace_Dinosaurs" target="_blank">marvelled at the dinosaurs</a>, lamented the fact that the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Crystal_Palace" target="_blank">Palace itself burnt down</a> at the <a href="http://www.crystalpalacemuseum.org.uk/" target="_blank">Museum</a>, and got excited about the <a href="http://news.sky.com/story/1149837/crystal-palace-development-pictures-revealed" target="_blank">proposed redevelopment (from 2015)</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Towards the city</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juxtaposed with you</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crystal Palce Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RAWRRRR!</td></tr>
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After a great big naughty lunch at <a href="http://www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk/home/pubs/the-capitol-forest-hill" target="_blank">The Capitol, the Wetherspoons</a> in Forest Hill (I said we were being cheap, didn't I, and who can turn down an enormous hot dog, with onion rings, chips and a pint for just £5.89?), we headed up to the <a href="http://www.horniman.ac.uk/" target="_blank">Horniman Museum and Gardens</a>, where we took a look around the free exhibitions and a quick stroll around the gardens, taking in the delights of the Horniman Farmer's Market, on every weekend.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crystal Palace Station</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horniman Museum Gardens</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Horniman Museum Gardens</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px;">Horniman Museum Gardens</td></tr>
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We stopped off at <a href="http://www.thedolphinsydenham.com/" target="_blank">The Dolphin</a> in Sydenham for another relaxed pint and then headed home laden with shopping bags of food from Lidl, where we watched the finale of Breaking Bad at last, and devoured umpteen <a href="http://www.lidl.co.uk/cps/rde/SID-D4CEE448-1FD66AFC/www_lidl_uk/hs.xsl/4036.htm" target="_blank">Favorina</a> biscuits.<br />
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On Sunday we went for a local stroll, which took us first to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sydenham_Wells_Park" target="_blank">Wells Park</a>, which is right on my doorstep and utterly beautiful, then around the outskirts of Crystal Palace Park again to Penge where we ogled the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penge" target="_blank">Almshouses</a>, ate in another Wetherspoons and trawled the charity shops.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wells Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wells Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wells Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree Bark</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wetherspoons chilli con carne....mmmmm</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oZakXRUvAZQ/UnQPWJDDs_I/AAAAAAAABZc/oTkDZkLKcmg/s1600/P1000315.RW2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oZakXRUvAZQ/UnQPWJDDs_I/AAAAAAAABZc/oTkDZkLKcmg/s1600/P1000315.RW2" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Penge Almshouses</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St Bartholomews</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jews Walk</td></tr>
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I love living in South East London, there's so much to see, plenty of leafy places to walk, and so many beautiful and incredibly old buildings. A satisfyingly cheap and chilled weekend, made even better by a lie-in on Monday morning due to train delays from the storm, and the fact that as Boy's trains were cancelled altogether, I got to keep him for an extra night.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-20989726383812943692013-10-30T21:38:00.001+00:002013-10-30T21:39:25.117+00:00TK Maxxing it for xxMas<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The new <a href="http://www.tkmaxx.com/" target="_blank">TK Maxx</a> store opened on Long Acre last week, and I was very excited about this - I love a good tkrummage. Here's the great unveil (excuse the dreadful pictures, I didn't have my fancy new camera with me).</div>
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I had a chance to have a good peek around the shop before it opened at the launch party, and was pleased with what I found - boo to no homeware section - but thankfully there's the Charing Cross Road branch only 5 minutes walk away.<br />
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I took a few snaps of things that caught my eye, so here's a very quick gift guide for you all.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scarves for mum</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PJs for the baby sis, perhaps? I love those blue ones!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous Patagonia exercise top for the yogini</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HcqzHnKLSGI/UnF3zCgBd3I/AAAAAAAABVo/roII3wwCgDo/s1600/20131023_181736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HcqzHnKLSGI/UnF3zCgBd3I/AAAAAAAABVo/roII3wwCgDo/s1600/20131023_181736.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pepsi Tshirt for yourself - and why not? Christmas shopping is hard work</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19kwAebnwYw/UnF3y1AYv5I/AAAAAAAABVk/x_8bpl5mywg/s1600/20131023_181848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19kwAebnwYw/UnF3y1AYv5I/AAAAAAAABVk/x_8bpl5mywg/s1600/20131023_181848.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas jumper for the day itself</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N-Pa_hMCQy0/UnF34OfYfdI/AAAAAAAABV4/0zI2sGib3GM/s1600/20131023_182504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N-Pa_hMCQy0/UnF34OfYfdI/AAAAAAAABV4/0zI2sGib3GM/s1600/20131023_182504.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prada shoes from the Gold Label section for the fashionista</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TyxgiFSL_bk/UnF349SCGtI/AAAAAAAABV8/FwEy5YJaubw/s1600/20131023_182934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TyxgiFSL_bk/UnF349SCGtI/AAAAAAAABV8/FwEy5YJaubw/s1600/20131023_182934.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gooey frosting for the foodie.</td></tr>
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I popped back and got a couple of bits for the Boy yesterday, but those are a secret. The new store overall is impressive, spread over 3 floors, the Gold Label section is pretty big, and despite no proper homeware section there are still candles, books, stationery and food items and a great selection of toiletries and bags.<br />
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The website itself has some great gifts available to order online, something I didn't realise before that TK Maxx did....<a href="http://www.tkmaxx.com/gifts/icat/666" target="_blank">voila</a>.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-52860589797817178192013-10-23T09:39:00.001+01:002013-10-23T09:39:21.036+01:00Dickins and Jones at House of Fraser<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
On a recent trip to Croydon, I happened upon the gorgeous collection by <a href="http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/on/demandware.store/Sites-hof-Site/default/Search-Show?cgid=BRAND_DICKINS%20%26%20JONES" target="_blank">Dickins and Jones</a> at <a href="http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/" target="_blank">House of Fraser</a>, a stunning collection of grown-up ladieswear. Despite not knowing about the range at HoF, I thought the name sounded familiar. When I got home, I realised of course that D&J used to be an upmarket department store on Regent Street, right up until 2006 (where <a href="http://www.hm.com/%E2%80%8E" target="_blank">H&M</a> now is).<br />
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Their range of clothing, which is exclusive to House of Fraser is "a wonderfully
quintessential British fashion brand for women" with "a distinct heritage feel that has a timeless yet fashionable
appeal." - this is from the blurb from the blurb on the website but it's certainly accurate.<br />
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I got <a href="http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Dickins+Jones+Ladies+stripe+jersey+top+with+bird+print+pocket/183516780,default,pd.html" target="_blank">this adorable top</a> for just £18 (£20 on sale, with Boy's student discount).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Dickins+Jones+Ladies+stripe+jersey+top+with+bird+print+pocket/183516780,default,pd.html" target="_blank">Dickins and Jones Jersey Top</a></td></tr>
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A cute weekend top, wearable with jeans or a skirt. It's available in a range of colours with different patterns on that sweet little pocket, I just love this bird print!<br />
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Looking at the website has got me lusting after these gorgeous pyjama bottoms, perfect for cosying up as the winter nights draw in! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HB8zCsTcbV0/UmeKXORWoEI/AAAAAAAABCY/V-_MZeS_MH4/s1600/I_181234065_00_20130729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HB8zCsTcbV0/UmeKXORWoEI/AAAAAAAABCY/V-_MZeS_MH4/s1600/I_181234065_00_20130729.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Dickins+Jones+Isabel+peacock+print+trouser/181234065,default,pd.html" target="_blank">Peacock pyjamas</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bd1RL9XoG7o/UmeKil5qJ5I/AAAAAAAABCg/J3DLNzNWA8g/s1600/I_174625302_00_20130219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bd1RL9XoG7o/UmeKil5qJ5I/AAAAAAAABCg/J3DLNzNWA8g/s1600/I_174625302_00_20130219.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Dickins+Jones+Teacup+PJ+pant/174625336,default,pd.html" target="_blank">Teacup pyjamas</a></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-31540630319226568232013-10-20T19:31:00.002+01:002013-10-20T19:42:07.292+01:00Highgate Cemetery (playing with my new camera)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The time finally came that I was able to buy my new camera. I LOVE it. It's the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Panasonic-DMC-GF5KEB-K-Compact-System-Interchangeable/dp/B007RM0WV6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1381684148&sr=8-1&keywords=lumix+gf5" target="_blank">Panasonic Lumix GF5</a> which I bought for the princely sum of £200 inc P&P from <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aag/main/ref=olp_merch_name_1?ie=UTF8&asin=B007RM0WV6&isAmazonFulfilled=0&seller=AWVV6BAKMDWN0" target="_blank">this Amazon seller</a>. Miraculously, I only ordered it on Thursday and it arrived on Friday, just in time for the weekend. The low price was due to the box being unsealed and a bit tatty but everything was in there and brand new, so I can live with a tatty box (in all honesty the tattiness is barely perceptible).<br />
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This weekend I headed up to my <a href="http://lovelaurelx.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">bestie's</a> pad, back in my old North London stomping ground, which was a complete mission as the Northern Line <i>and </i>the Overground were borked. We popped to Muswell Hill for a charity shop raid, collecting some fatty bum-bum snacks and nestled in for the night with When Harry Met Sally, Little Mermaid and Enchanted. Just what the doctor ordered.<br />
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This morning, after a bracing brunch at <a href="http://www.lepainquotidien.co.uk/#/en_UK/locations/highgate_n6" target="_blank">Le Pain Quotidien</a> in Highgate, we headed to Waterlow Park and Highgate Cemetery armed with our cameras for some experimentation.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Converse-High-Sand-Sde-shr/dp/B005RR0T2U" target="_blank">Converse</a></td></tr>
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I'm a beginner to any kind of real photography, but now I have the tools, I am looking forward to taking much better pictures. I'm now trawling the internet for the nicest case and the best memory card for my shiny new toy. I'm loving this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/164984507/mirrorless-camera-case-bag-mix-color?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">cutie from Etsy</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2tS-8xCjhSU/UmQfN4fn5XI/AAAAAAAABBs/IntjK4ZaIIs/s1600/il_570xN.509996762_sxv3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2tS-8xCjhSU/UmQfN4fn5XI/AAAAAAAABBs/IntjK4ZaIIs/s1600/il_570xN.509996762_sxv3.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/164984507/mirrorless-camera-case-bag-mix-color?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">Etsy</a></td></tr>
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Before heading North yesterday I popped in to look at couple of shops local to me in Sydenham, I came across <a href="https://plus.google.com/103837399470210043859/about?gl=uk&hl=en" target="_blank">Doorz</a>, where I reserved an old table for £15, and so when I returned today, I popped around to pick it up. I've been desperate for a desk as I didn't want to use my sewing machine upstairs in the dining room and have to put it away each time I used it, or irritate my flatmate. The new addition is a bit scruffy and is basically a family dining table rather than a desk, but I think it's going to work for me.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-47027532644931022352013-09-16T21:28:00.000+01:002013-09-16T21:41:45.764+01:00Hello Vans<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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What happened to <a href="http://www.converse.com/" target="_blank">Converse</a>? I had my first pair for almost 10 year. My second pair lasted a year. My third pair, four months. I noticed last week that one of the soles was falling out, which Isn't Good Enough, so I took them straight back to <a href="http://www.office.co.uk/" target="_blank">Office</a>, who without quibble offered me a replacement. I decided to go to the other side, and got some <a href="http://www.vans.co.uk/" target="_blank">Vans</a>.</div>
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Converse, I'll be back when you up your game.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.office.co.uk/view/product/office_catalog/5,21/2482722099" target="_blank">Vans</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Outing in new shoes</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-60195994210176860792013-09-15T15:53:00.000+01:002013-09-15T15:54:24.343+01:00An Ode to Orla Kiely and Suzy Bishop<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I absolutely adore <a href="http://www.orlakiely.com/uk/" target="_blank">Orla Kiely</a>, so it's fitting that the one LFW show that I got to was hers. I loved the SS14 collection, it's incredible. You can watch the official show video <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2_FoGVXjXA" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/M68sv14RCnE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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The SS14 collection is "inspired by girl guides, brownies and Suzy Bishop, the collection presents a contract of texture, embelishment and 70's inspired silouhettes fused with a modern twist.<br />
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I got zero decent photos from the actual show as I am still saving for a proper camera, but here's a handful from the <a href="http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/designers_profile.aspx?DesignerID=477" target="_blank">LFW Site</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tg0zZggzelk/UjXEibcrrII/AAAAAAAAA8s/cc2JfpND5F4/s1600/213179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tg0zZggzelk/UjXEibcrrII/AAAAAAAAA8s/cc2JfpND5F4/s1600/213179.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dAQTT4asjj4/UjXEvvsKeUI/AAAAAAAAA84/0oDYFfh7H-o/s1600/213181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dAQTT4asjj4/UjXEvvsKeUI/AAAAAAAAA84/0oDYFfh7H-o/s1600/213181.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/designers_profile.aspx?DesignerID=477" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Huckleberry bag, based on a binocular case is my personal favourite item from the whole collection - you can see it in yellow in the middle photo.<br />
<br />
If you haven't seen <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1748122/" target="_blank">Moonrise Kingdom</a> yet, watch it, immediately - trailer <a href="http://moonrisekingdommovie.tumblr.com/trailer" target="_blank">here</a>, and learn the ways of the style icon that is Suzy Bishop. An homage to Wes Anderson's most stylish creation:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UCvqRD1eRpM/UjXCXUWNwFI/AAAAAAAAA8c/ExCFnDaJYnc/s1600/09c8ea14bb068c4bea6b44d88efb0ff6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UCvqRD1eRpM/UjXCXUWNwFI/AAAAAAAAA8c/ExCFnDaJYnc/s1600/09c8ea14bb068c4bea6b44d88efb0ff6.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/p/WTmV-iM62V/" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqJ2wSOGNdA/UjXA4yDyYBI/AAAAAAAAA8E/_A5pswzIytY/s1600/8d56a9daa61c23a24c49483807740dff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqJ2wSOGNdA/UjXA4yDyYBI/AAAAAAAAA8E/_A5pswzIytY/s1600/8d56a9daa61c23a24c49483807740dff.jpg" height="640" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/404761085230746039/" target="_blank">Source</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/404761085230746039/" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/404761085230746039/" target="_blank">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fDOZwjLUe7E/UjXACz5s2UI/AAAAAAAAA70/sbOyo73H6Y4/s1600/43754b4f5a9030c0e1b86b5519d7e3b9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fDOZwjLUe7E/UjXACz5s2UI/AAAAAAAAA70/sbOyo73H6Y4/s1600/43754b4f5a9030c0e1b86b5519d7e3b9.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/25684660347869253/" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4I5Fyrlw1S8/UjXBoqNo2hI/AAAAAAAAA8U/tj1vj7MOPws/s1600/tumblr_mbbrx5v6HX1r2qxkqo2_250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4I5Fyrlw1S8/UjXBoqNo2hI/AAAAAAAAA8U/tj1vj7MOPws/s1600/tumblr_mbbrx5v6HX1r2qxkqo2_250.jpg" height="640" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tb-grafik.tumblr.com/post/32808801870/illustration-moonrise-kingdom-sam-shakusky" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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Back on the subject of Orla, her new footwear collection in conjunction with Clarks was also showcased at the show on Saturday, "...A capsule collection of 6 styles....<span style="line-height: 24px; text-align: justify;">Incorporating colours iconic of her collections with green, mustard, navy and red colour ways, and a real sense of fun – the collection is representative both of Orla’s design heritage and Clarks’ passion for style and substance.</span>"<br />
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The "Mary" are my personal favourites.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PF-zfPZB-cI/UjXFuVtM87I/AAAAAAAAA9E/xRRm_yYWeDk/s1600/Orla+Mary+Natural+Green+Leather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PF-zfPZB-cI/UjXFuVtM87I/AAAAAAAAA9E/xRRm_yYWeDk/s1600/Orla+Mary+Natural+Green+Leather.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orla Kiely and Clarks, Mary</td></tr>
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This fashion stuff is a crazy business though, it's September, the temperature is dropping, it's raining almost constantly, and yet were expected to think about clothing for <i>summer</i>? That will never make any sense to me. Here's a couple of my favourites from Orla's AW13 knitwear collection.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zpBS8u-RLKc/UjXHxuutNNI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/34YML7tPG4k/s1600/13AKAEM211-Cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zpBS8u-RLKc/UjXHxuutNNI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/34YML7tPG4k/s1600/13AKAEM211-Cream.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.orlakiely.com/uk.cfm/clothing/aw13%20knitwear/13AKAEM211/26045/Cream/6" target="_blank">Animal Embroidery Cardigan</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fotEgw5UdFI/UjXHx4_46gI/AAAAAAAAA9U/1exNbb0a4xQ/s1600/13AKSQU222-Light_Grey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fotEgw5UdFI/UjXHx4_46gI/AAAAAAAAA9U/1exNbb0a4xQ/s1600/13AKSQU222-Light_Grey.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://squirrel%20intarsia%20cardigan/" target="_blank">Squirrel Intarsia Cardigan</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happily, you can get free delivery on purchases through <a href="http://www.orlakiely.com/uk/" target="_blank">the website</a> this week to celebrate London Fashion Week (and there's mugs and stationery on sale....you're welcome).</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-24535078256618715822013-09-10T21:08:00.001+01:002013-09-10T21:09:36.286+01:00V&Oak Magazine<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My beautiful, clever and very talented friend Ana has created a magazine, and it is <i>amazing</i>. She launched <a href="http://www.vandoak.com/" target="_blank">V&Oak</a> (Vintage and One of A Kind) a couple of years ago, an online lifestyle magazine devoted to the vintage and handmade lifestyle, for those of us who are bored of the mainstream and want to adorn ourselves, and our lives with something a bit more unique.<br />
<br />
The first bi-annual print edition is now out, and after pre-ordering mine a month ago and eagerly awaiting its arrival, it's finally here in all it's glory, and just as I anticipated, it's fantastic. There's articles on vintage fashion and beauty, vintage shopping tips, quirky home and gift ideas, with beautiful photography throughout, and none of the usual drivel about half-naked celebrities and fake tan.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8_1dBgM6iT0/Ui902TiseaI/AAAAAAAAA6w/W-aQ-PHjU94/s1600/COVER_FINAL_LOW_RES+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8_1dBgM6iT0/Ui902TiseaI/AAAAAAAAA6w/W-aQ-PHjU94/s1600/COVER_FINAL_LOW_RES+(1).jpg" height="640" width="448" /></a></div>
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You can buy V&Oak Issue 1 <a href="http://voakmagazine.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">here</a> for £10 + £2.60 p&p (In the UK). I recommend that you do. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Disclaimer: I love my friend, she's uber-talented. Thus I bought the magazine out of my own money and wrote about it of my own accord.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-44941436708225762722013-09-09T21:19:00.000+01:002013-09-09T21:29:52.834+01:00Iris Prima - Pretty Ballerina<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Did you do ballet? I did, up until about the age of 7 but I didn't like the teacher. Looking back, she was a great teacher of ballet, but perhaps not for young children! When I was 10 I took up tap dance, and worked my way up quickly from the baby class to the senior class, before quitting because the Friday night classes interfered with my prompt arrival at school discos.<br />
<br />
I wish I'd carried on dancing. I admire the discipline, grace and muscle tone of professional dancers but in terms of being any good at it, I think my ship sailed a long time ago. I'll taken to lurking outside the <a href="http://www.roh.org.uk/" target="_blank">Royal Opera House</a> at lunchtime, creating ballet boards on <a href="http://pinterest.com/katipalin/pretty-ballerina/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, and watching <a href="http://www.foxsearchlight.com/blackswan/" target="_blank">Black Swan</a> on repeat.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qfBAAk328Ew/Ui4ochlM9eI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/6NtYkL71BKQ/s1600/IRISPRIMA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qfBAAk328Ew/Ui4ochlM9eI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/6NtYkL71BKQ/s1600/IRISPRIMA.jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></div>
I guess if I don't get to be a ballerina, I can at least smell like one?! <a href="http://www.penhaligons.com/iris-prima-collection/?gclid=CKTv2-mJv7kCFfLHtAodagwA4g" target="_blank">Iris Prima</a>, the newest fragrance by Penhaligon's launched today, expertly put together by Alberto Morillas in conjunction with the <a href="http://www.ballet.org.uk/" target="_blank">English National Ballet</a>.<br />
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I caught a whiff of this fragrance at the Christmas in July event, sadly I missed the launch itself, and it took my breath away, with its green amber and pink pepper headnotes and basenotes of leather and sandalwood, it really is reminiscent of the ballet.<br />
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This charming video was created for the launch of the perfume, featuring dancers talking about what "The Scent of the Ballet" means to them. I think Alberto was spot on.<br />
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100ml is £120...one for the Christmas list!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/m9-dLNbbql4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*I saw this fragrance previewed, bu I haven't been paid or compensated in any way for this post. I just really, really like the fragrance!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-21439226194845382712013-09-02T22:25:00.000+01:002013-09-03T08:56:17.440+01:00Summing Up Summer<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's been a busy month or so. I moved house, went to see The Bodyguard, went to two weddings and a hen do, Notting Hill Carnival, Bicester Village, had a visit from my sister who's back from Oz, had my boyfriend who I've lived with for six years move back to the North to finish uni and have had an American houseguest to stay for the last week and a half. On top of this, work has been super busy, I've been visiting my grandmother and my internet connection has been extremely wonky if not non-existent at times.<br />
<br />
Since we decided to move to London for Dave's placement job (his absolute dream role), we always knew that he'd be going back, and that I wouldn't be joining him. I got here and settled into a role at a great company with great people, and unfortunately while I was up north, nothing was happening for me career wise at all. Even though we knew we'd eventually have to part it came as quite a shock when the morning came that he caught that train. I told myself on that Thursday that I had that one day to mope and then I needed to get on with it and with all the distractions listed above and a mobile contract with unlimited minutes, it hasn't been too bad at all. We saw each other this weekend for his brother's wedding, which was a very emotional but happy day, but as he was best man he had many duties to perform so our quality time together was limited, but he looked very dapper, and did an amazing job!<br />
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Luckily it's his birthday this weekend so he is back in London at my side, and I'm going to spoil his rotten. He's choosing some new trainers, these Spiderman Vans are his current favourite and we'll eat, drink and make merry in the Capital.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyzMWRuwfa8/UiThVWKlgCI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/hxfF2tSTXM8/s1600/3400533050m1_main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tyzMWRuwfa8/UiThVWKlgCI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/hxfF2tSTXM8/s1600/3400533050m1_main.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.schuh.co.uk/mens-red-vans-sk8-hi-marvel-spider-man/3400533050/#ReviewsSection" target="_blank">Spidey-shoes</a></td></tr>
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Here's some recent photos that sum up the last couple of months</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yjdCRZuE1Ro/UiT1jeQ0Z8I/AAAAAAAAA4k/pkEl-OM7K1E/s1600/IMG_20130802_125101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yjdCRZuE1Ro/UiT1jeQ0Z8I/AAAAAAAAA4k/pkEl-OM7K1E/s1600/IMG_20130802_125101.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three generations. Love you Nan, even if you don't remember me</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HS3zskmcBiI/UiT1jqYtr3I/AAAAAAAAA4o/xg467qk9mio/s1600/IMG_20130809_175326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HS3zskmcBiI/UiT1jqYtr3I/AAAAAAAAA4o/xg467qk9mio/s1600/IMG_20130809_175326.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meat Market</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X93oNTdzLZs/UiT1lldqePI/AAAAAAAAA48/7pwrmUqOO_A/s1600/IMG_20130809_230209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X93oNTdzLZs/UiT1lldqePI/AAAAAAAAA48/7pwrmUqOO_A/s1600/IMG_20130809_230209.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reunited with the sis</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w7ih97k5MoI/UiT1mb1fJRI/AAAAAAAAA5E/k3FhWG9IMT4/s1600/IMG_20130810_174735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w7ih97k5MoI/UiT1mb1fJRI/AAAAAAAAA5E/k3FhWG9IMT4/s1600/IMG_20130810_174735.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pub Frustration</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktHn7mAaELk/UiT1mveIFrI/AAAAAAAAA5M/qpR6tBw0Poo/s1600/IMG_20130811_130744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktHn7mAaELk/UiT1mveIFrI/AAAAAAAAA5M/qpR6tBw0Poo/s1600/IMG_20130811_130744.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loving Pizza Express's blue glassware, can I get 100 glasses for my wedding?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UqFSF2lYS6Y/UiT1mhSO2pI/AAAAAAAAA5I/SbL9EefB0ZM/s1600/IMG_20130817_191233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UqFSF2lYS6Y/UiT1mhSO2pI/AAAAAAAAA5I/SbL9EefB0ZM/s1600/IMG_20130817_191233.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hen Party Selfying</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xo1icGDUCG8/UiT1nwvTEhI/AAAAAAAAA5c/H28MrduXFGs/s1600/IMG_20130824_085539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xo1icGDUCG8/UiT1nwvTEhI/AAAAAAAAA5c/H28MrduXFGs/s1600/IMG_20130824_085539.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This seat took me 2 years to get round to doing, took me 20 minutes. <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Echino-Nico-Ni-Co-London-City-Scene-Blue-Japanese-Cotton-Linen-Fabric-Half-Yard-/150926917809?pt=US_Fabric&hash=item2323f200b1" target="_blank">Echino Nico Fabric</a>, Stag Minstrel telephone table</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xUyynqbEbpk/UiT1pjtxrgI/AAAAAAAAA5w/uIG9ZfF-Be8/s1600/IMG_20130826_191329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xUyynqbEbpk/UiT1pjtxrgI/AAAAAAAAA5w/uIG9ZfF-Be8/s1600/IMG_20130826_191329.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rum Punch at <a href="http://www.thenottinghillcarnival.com/" target="_blank">Notting Hill Carnival</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WwI7HrRakkY/UiT1oe53qtI/AAAAAAAAA5g/IPtHaOrLO70/s1600/IMG_20130829_235217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WwI7HrRakkY/UiT1oe53qtI/AAAAAAAAA5g/IPtHaOrLO70/s1600/IMG_20130829_235217.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.trafficpeople.co.uk/shop/" target="_blank">Traffic People Dress</a>, ready for wedding</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ihqgrN077k/UiT1pnC6dXI/AAAAAAAAA5s/pniRVWakPNc/s1600/IMG_20130831_153124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ihqgrN077k/UiT1pnC6dXI/AAAAAAAAA5s/pniRVWakPNc/s1600/IMG_20130831_153124.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geek Wedding Centrepieces: <span style="background-color: #fbfbfb; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;">Take car. Go to Mum's. Kill Phil - "Sorry." - grab Liz, go to the Winchester, have a nice cold pint, and wait for all of this to blow over.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lECWGZcDjv0/UiT1quRwYCI/AAAAAAAAA58/AdaQSD_2oxI/s1600/IMG_20130901_223357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lECWGZcDjv0/UiT1quRwYCI/AAAAAAAAA58/AdaQSD_2oxI/s1600/IMG_20130901_223357.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best best man</td></tr>
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Now Autumn is on its way, though these last throes of summer are going down a treat, I'm ready for some hibernating. Now that this summer's weddings are over, I've realised that the next one we attend is our own next June, when his studies are finally over. While most of the big stuff is done, there's still bridesmaids dresses and wedding rings to find, and more little details to finalise, which means some crafty days dreaming up table decorations with plenty of tea and biscuits, my homegirls, and good movies. Nice.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892063789484513723.post-22376546530806960692013-08-21T20:33:00.000+01:002013-08-21T21:06:21.135+01:00willPower and Grace®<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I mentioned before how <a href="http://funfashionable.blogspot.com/2013/07/yogini.html" target="_blank">I was on a bit of a yoga drive</a>, and that's still true, I bloody love it. But today, I tried something new. Realising that I've been eating like a dirty, <i>dirty</i> dawg recently (seriously, the Friday night before last I went to <i>both</i> MeatMarket <i>and</i> MeatMission) I thought I'd better up my game and throw some cardio in the mix in order to combat the badness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I can't stand working out on the machines in the gym itself, and I could throw up at the thought of spinning. When I saw <a href="http://www.willpowermethod.com/" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">willPower & grace®</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"> </span></a> on the menu at my gym, <a href="http://www.virginactive.co.uk/clubs/strand/" target="_blank">Virgin Active</a>, with the blurb, "Go barefoot and plug into some positive energy for the mind and body from the ground up. It’s a whole new kind of class that frees your mind, improves your flexibility and boosts your cardio system. It’s truly awesome!" I was a little unsure, and in truth it's taken me weeks to psych myself up to go, not sure what I was expecting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The class is <i>very </i>cool (figuratively, it's actually very hot). The feet are the focus, and if you think about it, why not give them some love? We walk around on them all day, and yet we never give them any attention. Most of the bones in your body are in your feet, yet we rarely work on their strength and flexibility. The class is "designed to <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.890625px;">strengthen feet while progressively correcting imbalances in the ankles, knees and hips." (<a href="http://www.virginactive.co.uk/press/2011/willpower-and-grace" target="_blank">source</a>). If you're curious, you can see a snippet of a class <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7El9wWd2ViQ" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.palestraaccademia.eu/index.php?fl=4&op=mcs&id_cont=190&eng=Willpower%20and%20Grace%20%C2%AE&idm=228" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Image Source</span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The class is quite intense, with fast-paced music, and lots of squatting and jumping, but the instructor (Lourdes) was friendly and encouraging without singling out the newbies - I think I was the only one, but I was easily able to keep up with everybody else, some of whom spoke like they;ve been going for a while and clearly love it - I'm converted! My class was this lunchtime, and I had a bit of a sweat on afterwards, but the facilities at Virgin meant I could have a quick shower and head back to work, fuss-free. I'm a little achy already, but that just means it's working! It's a class I'll definitely go back to, while still continuing to practice yoga - this is going to be good for not only my fitness levels but also my ability to get away with eating all those burgers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You can find a class <a href="http://www.willpowermethod.com/classfinder/search" target="_blank">here</a> or see a list of instructors <a href="http://www.willpowermethod.com/team" target="_blank">here</a> - it's pretty big Stateside. Unfortunately for northerners, most seem to be south based with a handful in Scotland and Northern Ireland. But I am sure this movement is only set to grow and hopefully they'll be one in every town and city in the UK soon</span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13685284537466371627noreply@blogger.com0