Cherry Gumdrops

You stare politely right on through.

2012-02-12T12:40:00.012Z

Look what arrived on Friday! L'Occitane understand great service; I'm very appreciative of the two samples that I was allowed to choose online when I placed my order for the 100% Shea Butter. Not going to lie, this tin is so, so tiny, yet full of goodness all the same!

Mini 100% Shea Butter

I laugh until my head comes off.

2012-02-10T15:31:00.004Z

L'Occitane's Limited Edition Hibiscus Flower 20% Shea Butter Hand Cream, 30ml, is my favourite thing for keeping my hands looking young and non-cracked during this icy, cold snap we're having at the moment. I first tried L'Occitane's Hand Creams when I received a tube of the limited edition 30ml Desert Rose one, back in the summer, with a magazine, and I loved it immediately and immensely.

I loved the cream so much that I picked up the two other limited edition fragrances of it at the duty free in Berlin - this and the Cocoa Flower one - and they're brilliant. A thick, rich cream, they are very moisturising, and non greasy, as I'm sure the regular range of Shea Butter ones are, and I absolutely adore the sweet scent of Hibiscus Flower evidently!

These are still available on L'Occitane's website, prices starting at £7.50 for the travel-sized 30mls I have here!

What are your secrets for staying presentable this winter?

Ich hab' keine Worte

2012-02-09T18:38:00.000Z

(I have no words)

The title sums this up rather nicely, as I'm lacking in energy or enthusiasm to do anything at the moment. German is stressing me out, as per, and I'm only just about getting over a nasty cold picked up on the tube in London last Wednesday, so I quite honestly still feel pretty groggy.

Here's a tip; never choose to the topic of Atomic Energy for an A2 language speaking exam when you quite honestly struggle with it in English!

I'm meant to be presenting to my class tomorrow but I don't know enough and my arguments are too weak, so I'm going to have to explain to my teacher that I'm too stupid to be able to. Ugh.

Cannot wait for this final year of school to come to an end - I hate A Levels immensely.

Your lipstick his collar.

2012-02-06T21:58:00.000Z

Prom Nostalgia at it's finest.

Only nearly two years late, but yeah.

What did you wear to your proms?

It all boils down to the same old thing.

2012-02-05T08:43:00.001Z

Snow; I hate it so much, although it is ridiculously pretty.

I love the cat tracks, so cute!

I don't love my cat however; she needs to learn that it's not acceptable to beat me up and steal my pillow in the middle of the night.

You've been dismissed, I never thought it would come to this.

2012-02-04T12:50:00.000Z

I've never been one to wear red nails; they generally scream "tacky" to me, and seem to be associated with "glamorous" older people, not teenage girls.

Apologies for the messy finish; red is a nightmare!

This polish applied smoothly and opaquely in just one coat, with a base of Maybelline Nude Rose and a topcoat of Barry M 3-in-1!

What do you think of red nails?

ps. Rest in Peace, Grandma; cannot seriously believe it's been two whole months since you left us. I miss you a hell of a lot.

Us against the world.

2012-02-03T17:20:00.000Z

Don't you just hate it when someone asks you a confusingly serious yet simple question and you're too slow to realise there could be something lurking beneath the surface until you've said something stupid and possibly annoying the other person?

Damn.

cold weather

2012-02-01T19:37:00.002Z

is horrible.
I have a horrible headache, feel like I'm going to vomit, and my nose keeps bleeding. Ugh...

You said "it's just like a full moon"

2012-02-01T13:20:00.005Z

I haven't painted my nails in so long. It was such a long-awaited treat after exams that I'd completely lost interest, *gasp*!

Not my favourite ever, not going to lie!

Interview at Kings today! Eeh!

the power to impress

2012-01-30T12:00:00.000Z

Yet another post on what appears to be my favourite things, sad as it is!

Only 15 here today!

(L-R) Aphrodite Olive Oil with Coconut (bought in an airport in Cyprus)

Figs & Rouge Sweet Geranium

Burt's Bees Acai Berry

Burt's Bees Beeswax*

Burt's Bees Pomegranate Oil*

Hurraw! Licorice

Hurraw! Coconut

(L-R) The Body Shop Lip Roll-on Berry

EOS Honeysuckle Honeydew*

The Body Shop Christmas Spiced Vanilla

Yes To Carrots Melon*

L'Occitane Shea Butter

Nivea Essential Care

Badger Balm Madagascan Vanilla

Apple Chapstick (minus label)

* Balms are my favourites!

I desperately need to order a new EOS balm at some point in the near future, as I love it so much but it's almost flat! I also currently own Burt's Bees Mango and Softlips French Vanilla but didn't have them to hand when I was photographing!

What are your favourite balms?

Even if you won't say so, it's change.

2012-01-29T13:02:00.003Z

My brother says I exploit my cat? I say I she's very photogenic and too cute not to post photos of.

This really is turning into a cat blog, whoops.

I'm not entirely sure what to post on this blog anymore, aside from photos of my cats, so any suggestions would be much appreciated. Exams have drained my brain, and it's not fun!

On a better note, I have my interview for German and Flim Studies at Kings College London on 1st February; fingers crossed I don't screw it up!

My cat drinks soup.

2012-01-28T13:05:00.001Z

My cat drinks Heinz Tomato Soup; I have evidence after ten years!

Making my way through the crowd.

2012-01-27T14:00:00.011Z

Social Anxiety is a bitch.

If I walk into a large crowd of people, I feel as though everyone's eyes are boring into me and I have to turn away or else I feel like I'm going to suffocate. It's horrible, as I know that no-one is staring at me or judging me, I know that it's all in my head, but I can't help it.

Even walking around school at times, a place where I've been nearly everyday for the past 6 years of my life, I feel my eyes glaze over as a defence mechanism. Pretty sure that it makes me look either creepy or mildly stoned, uh oh.

Aside from my eyes glazing awkwardly, I find that on days where I'm more anxious than not, that I seem to wear brighter clothes, which is bizarre. I have a collection of colourful tights, and in the mornings if I feel like I want to hide, I resort to wearing a pair in an attempt to boost my confidence. That and wearing make-up most days now.

Does anyone else suffer from a similar sort of anxious response to social 'gatherings' in day-to-day life?

Es ist ganz leicht

2012-01-25T13:22:00.005Z

Ever since I was little I've collected cat figurines, made from china, glass and porcelain, and I thought I'd share some of my collection with the blog today!

Okay, this one isn't part of the collection:

Look at that tongue!

Just another quick little filler post as I'm in Birmingham today looking around the university, yay!

I used to want to bend the world.

2012-01-24T10:01:00.010Z

Obligatory Cat Spam.
I should be back blogging properly within the next week or so. Thank you to everybody who hasn't unfollowed due to my less frequent posting! Exams do take priority after all!

I like my cat despite how strange she is!

I'll be standing on the beach with my guitar

2012-01-22T11:20:00.000Z

I think it's fair to say I have the fluffiest hair known to man.

It's ridiculous, no?

Ich will glänzen

2012-01-19T17:38:00.000Z

I've only got one exam left, and I will be over the moon on tuesday once I've finished a gruelling two hour A2 English Literature paper on 'Othello', 'Doctor Faustus' and 'The Pardoner's Tale'!

This week has been both good and bad so far; good 'cause I've got an offer from Birmingham to study 'Modern Languages' aka German and Russian, and an interview on the 1st of February at Kings to study German and Film Studies, but bad for a reason I don't want to go into.

I cannot wait to get back into regular posting, but I'm not sure what to post to ease myself back into it.

I'll figure it out; I've got a final scheduled post coming up early on next week, nothing very exciting, but I'll let you guyz be the judge of that!

(ps, the title of this post means 'I want to shine' in German and is from Andreas Bourani's song 'Eisberg'!)

now everything has changed.

2012-01-17T21:44:00.000Z

Life is cruel; the good things in life are unimportant at times when weighed up against the bad things.

All that shimmers in this world is sure to fade away again.

2012-01-16T18:21:00.001Z

*scheduled post*

I love The Body Shop's Body Butters so so so much, and for good reason too! I've used these and been in awe of them since I was probably about eight, back in the day when I 'borrowed' my mum's ones, and could easily have spent hours just trying these in store. Who am I kidding; I still love the store!

(The Duo didn't want to photograph well separately)

I've tried various products from The Body Shop, including lip butters (loathe the texture and lack of moisture, love the smell), lip roll-ons, shower gels and so on, and I'd have to say my favourites are the body butters, preferably in Mango, Sweet Lemon and Coconut. They all smell lovely and are really great moisturisers.

Retailing at £12.50 for 200ml and £5 for 50ml, these aren't cheap, but when The Body Shop has offers, stock up quickly; I bought both the Mango and Sweet Lemon ones in this post for a combined £12.50 (half price days are good), and the Wild Cherry one cost me £3 in the January sales.


(I like cherries, hence my blog's name!)

I must have purchased this at least three times now! Definitely my favourite one yet.

What's your favourite moisturiser/body butter?

In your mustang to Radiohead.

2012-01-15T16:29:00.000Z

*scheduled post*

Walking in a park on a sunny wintry day is such a lovely opportunity to take some photos, as well as getting some much needed exercise. In winter I love nothing better than the opportunity to wear thick, woolly, knitted cardigans and to take photos when the sun is shining, despite how cold it may be outside!

Why is there blossom in January?!

What are your favourite things about winter?

Couldn't cut it as a poor man stealing.

2012-01-08T16:40:00.000Z

*Scheduled Post*

So I said I wouldn't be posting until the end of January...I didn't say I wasn't going to schedule a couple of posts here and there!

I just wanted to profess a little love for one of my favourite bands in this post; Nickelback!

'How You Remind Me' has been one of my favourite songs since I was around 8, and it was in the charts at a time when I was glued to the music channels on Sky with my brother!

The majority of favourites are on the 'Silver Side Up' album from 2001, but I have a love for two of their later songs, as above!

Have a listen, and don't be a sheepish Nickelback hater!

I'd like to say thank you to all of you for still following, and I'm really amazed that some of you have started following whilst I've been quiet in the blogosphere, thank you again!

Favourite Products of 2011

2011-12-31T12:00:00.000Z

*Scheduled Post*

Makeup

Skincare/Facial Skincare/Bodyspray

Haircare/Bodywash

Nail Polishes

Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry.

2011-12-30T18:57:00.000Z

I've got a new found addiction to pale pink glittery nails, eugh.

Today's combination is matt and the pink is No7's limited edition polish in 'Sugar', from a collection earlier this year.

It's so barbie-tastic that they make me die a little inside...

but they're so pretty!

Also, it's goodbye from me until after the 24th of January; exams need to take priority for the time being, as I really need to get higher than a D in my German AS retake, and do well in my English A2 in order to actually be able to get into a university.

Have a happy New Year, and stick around for some posting in the near future, I promise I'll return!

It's not the things you say.

2011-12-27T12:43:00.001Z

Love Ferrero Rocher!

Hope everyone has had a nice festive period!

I'm at a loss for what to post on this blog - I'm having a creativity slump.

On a positive note, I've finally been able to take a decent photo of my black cat!

My other cat likes to sit in my brother's bed...strange creature!

Ich brauch die schönsten Kleider Und die stärksten Männer

2011-12-24T11:25:00.001Z

Stupid amount of lip balms, yes?

So, it's Christmas Eve...it's also the middle of Chanukah, so I'm pretty much sorted.

Tomorrow for lunch we'll be having turkey - and Jewishy Barley Soup for starters, haha!

Merry Chanukah/Christmas/anything else you're celebrating!

^ Festive mode above ^

I can't eat, I can't sleep.

2011-12-23T16:34:00.001Z

I just did the unthinkable; I deleted all of my posts on this blog, previous to this year.

Why?

I read through several months worth of posts from 2010, and to be quite honest, I didn't want the chance for them to clog up both my blog and my memories. My now-deleted posts made me cringe - they were embarrassing, mundane and seemed immature.

I like to think I've matured a lot in both my personality and my writing style since beginning this blog nearly two years ago. It's helped me to express my feelings and develop as a person, as my interests have grown and changed.

Here's to another year, hopefully, of Cherry Gumdrops!

Look at this photograph, everytime I do it makes me laugh.

2011-12-22T19:54:00.015Z

Just a selection more of my photos taken in Berlin in November.

Oh my gosh, it's a Trabi!

Freidrich Statue

A section of the Berlin Wall, at the Checkpoint Charlie Museum.

Berlin Wall Memorial

Hohenschönhausen Prison

Inside of the Reichstag Building.


Blurry Brandenburger Tor/ Brandenburg Gate

Am I falling apart, is this falling in love, am I going insane?

2011-12-21T19:40:00.001Z

*Filler Review Post written on a Sunday night* Revision is a killer.

Max Factor's Smooth Elixir Lipsticks are lovely. Mostly. Brilliant colour pay off ( I've got two, and they're both very pigmented), long-lasting and well wearing. Non-drying also, and with a light vanilla smell. The downside? Clogged pores on lip line...great. It's not an isolated incident from one time or one lippy, it's both and it happens every time I wear them, dammit! Why does my skin hate EVERYTHING?!

I own both 'Pink Brandy' and 'Burnt Caramel' and below I've got pictures of the 'Burnt Caramel'...a nude-brown which somehow makes my lips darker? I don't know either!

Overall I'd love these lipsticks if there wasn't the small, ahem, problem afterwards.

They retail at £7.99, and if you don't have weird skin issues, they're lovely and worth the price.

I'll continue to use mine occasionally, but not too often if I want my lips to remain happy.

I'm just a skeleton

2011-12-20T22:28:00.001Z

So, it's the Christmas Holidays, yippee. Bet y'all can sense my false enthusiasm?

My bedroom walls are beginning to be filled with colourful sheets of card; quotes from 5 texts, all of which I need to memorise for two English exams next month. Here's a tip to anyone doing English Literature AS Level - don't muck up the exam in year 12 or you may be faced with this torture.

Okay, I'm exaggerating a bit.

In other news, I did indeed 'man up' and go to the theatre in London with three of my best friends on Friday evening. The evening consisted of a yummy dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe and then seeing 'Jersey Boys' at the Prince Edward Theatre, and it honestly was worth it and was overall a brilliant evening, aside from the drunken men at Euston at 10:30pm...haha.

Also, I received my first university offer last night! A conditional offer of ABB at Bristol University to study German and Russian, yay! The only catch is I need an 'A' in German, which was a 'B' on the prospectus, and I'm probably not going to be able to achieve that high - depends on how I do in the AS resit, I guess - but if I work ridiculously hard it may be possible.

Got to love a nighttime ramble!

So wie wir sind.

2011-12-19T18:48:00.000Z

If I were asked to name one product that I've loved and used the most throughout the year 2011, I would definitely say Naked Body Care's 'Shine' Hydrating Conditioner with Buttermilk and Green Tea. I've used this conditioner in conjunction with several others from Naked throughout this year, and this one is the one I always reach for if in doubt, as it smells lovely and does the job brilliantly.

I must have repurchased this at least 5 times this year; I feel positively lost if I don't have a tube of this propping up my conditioner collection. Other things that I love about this conditioner include that it's paraben-free, Naked don't test on animals, and the bottle is recyclable; what's not to love?!

This conditioner (as well as Naked's shampoos and other conditioners) retails for £3.99 for the Naked Body Care website, and around £4.07 in Boots.

You know you're addicted to a product when you are compelled to nip across from the Post Office to Boots in order to buy a new one, when you've just collected a parcel including another one of the Naked conditioners!

(^ True story, happened last weekend.)

What's your most repurchased product of 2011?

Angst ist schrecklich

2011-12-18T20:52:00.002Z

Ich sollte auf Deutsch schreiben, da ich viel zu lernen habe...auch ich habe so viel zu erinnen. Ich muss diese Prüfung besser als im Sommer machen, oder ich darf kein Deutsch auf der Uni studieren.

Viel Angst, oder?! Damn AS German :(

(I'm going to be posting less frequently for the next month or so, but I'll schedule a few posts here and there at weekends...basically, I can't fail German again, or else I have to change my life plan)

The newscaster says 'the enemy's among us'.

2011-12-18T12:34:00.001Z

As you may have realised through reading past posts, I have ridiculously sensitive skin. My skin hates chemicals, simple as, and I react to many products, including shampoos, face wipes, face washes and the like. Unless I'm in situations where I cannot get hold of more natural products, I stick to using products from both Naked Body Care (predominantly haircare) and Good Things (skincare), and if I introduce anything harsher, my skin does not thank me for it.

Today I want to talk about how the Good Things products have been keeping my skin lovely for the past few months.

As you can see, I own seven products from Good Things, three products of which have been repurchases (Fresh Start Cleanser, Miracle Mattifier Moisturiser, Total Wipe Out Cleansing Wipes), and I'm very happy with them.


RRP: £3.49 for 25. I stopped using these for a few days in order to try some Vitamin E wipes from Boots. This did not go well, and my skin started to break out. Bought a new packet of these yesterday and my skin has cleared up significantly, funny eh?!

RRP: £7.99 for 100ml. I do think this is slightly overpriced but I love it all the same; it does what it says on the tube, and smells so so so lush. I use it morning and night and it's perfect for me at the moment. Did I mention it prevents spots?

RRP: £5.99 for 100ml. I'm seriously impressed with this; it dries nicely (gooey and green clay, yum), smells great, is easy to remove, keeps my skin nice, and it's lasting so well. I've had this for about 4 months and despite regular use (up to four times a week), I still have tons left!

RRP: £4.99 for 150ml. I love the smell of this, and it reminds me of the Naked Body Care Rose Facial Wash consistency wise. It's quick and nice to use, and leaves my skin looking good!

RRP: £4.99 for 150ml. This is my newest cleanser, which claims itself as an exfoliator, but I use it as a cleanser, if you get my meaning? I use this every evening after using the face wipes and it doesn't irritate the skin as it's so gentle, yet it exfoliates brilliantly and leaves my skin so so soft.

RRP: £4.99 for 150ml. I use this cream cleanser every morning, rinsing off with warm water and a flannel, and it, again, leaves my skin feeling good and looking nice too. I'm nearing the end of my second tube, but as it's so reasonable in price, I'm more than likely to purchase again!

RRP: £4.99 for 15ml. This is actually quite a good spot gel - it smells good, you can feel it working, and it applies nicely. Quite expensive, though in comparison to brands such as Garnier, it's a normal price. This is practically empty and it's a possible repurchase.

Have any of you tried the Good Things Skincare range? I couldn't recommend it more if you've got sensitive skin, especially if you react to the harsh products from Simple.

I won't do what you tell me.

2011-12-16T13:00:00.000Z

I don't do the things that everyone would expect of me on first impressions. Yes, I'm shy and awkward, especially when my friends aren't about, but I still have a personality and I'm still me.

I don't listen to the music I'm apparently meant to like, and I'm glad.

I don't dress the same as everyone else. I wouldn't change my style for anyone, I'll keep on wearing bright burgundy tights for as long as I want to.

I don't strive to be friends with everybody just so that I can manipulate them to get to where I want to be; I love being friends with my closest friends and wouldn't change them for anything.

I'm glad I'm not a carbon-copy of anyone else; I don't want to be, and I just wish people would realise this. Some people thrive on not being the 'norm', and I guess I'm just one of them.

I'm a crazy-cat-lady, what can I say?!

Ice Blue.

2011-12-15T17:28:00.000Z

My friend requested that I paint snow-flake/icy nails and here's the result:

I hate taking photos this time of year; I could only get the one photo that accurately represents these.

Ugh, damn you winter.

Pick up the pieces.

2011-12-12T18:50:00.000Z

I'm not thinking straight at the moment, and if I go to the theatre it will enhance my current near-distressed state of mind, damn mild phobia of lots of people being in one space. I'm not good with crowds, at all. I know it's what one of my best friends wants to do for her birthday, and I'm sorry, but I can't deal with more mental aggravation at the moment, I will honestly explode if I do.

I feel like a right plonker for not being able to say this out-loud, because it'll make me seem like a total self-obsessed bitch, but I'm too embarrassed to say this face-to-face, as I don't want to be laughed at or piss anyone off.

I really need to sort my mental state out at the moment, or I'm going to fail my exams in January/ not try, and come March I'll be contemplating quitting once and for all.

Again, sorry ♥ I can't help how my brain is wired.

♥

Diamonds, glitter and trauma tears

2011-12-10T12:54:00.001Z

Thank you to Biffy Clyro for the appropriate lyrics.

Barry M have a new limited edition glittery top coat 'special effect', only available in Boots, retailing at £3.99, and currently free if you spend over £6 on Barry M cosmetics, and I'm a bit of a magpie, oop...

The other two polishes which effectively paid for this are presents for people...honest.

Glitter Explosion Attempt #1

Two layers of Barry M blahdeblah over one coat of Maybelline's Nude Rose.

The glitter isn't holographic, sadly, so the lid is a tad misleading.

Mimicking Models Own's 'Pink Fizz' ?

So yeah, in all this is just a densely glitter filled clear polish, complete with really lovely silver speckles.

If we don't go where we belong.

2011-12-09T20:20:00.000Z

Just a filler post today, I'm afraid, with a few photos of a couple of adorable cats I've loved who haven't been with us for at least four years now. ♥

This week has not been one of my best, and my plans for this weekend include writing two essays, revising for an AS resit mock, and just generally de-stressing.

Have a lovely weekend.

And when they clash and come together

2011-12-06T13:02:00.043Z

In the name of being utterly pathetic, I've been buying lip balms again recently. My defence? When I get stressed or worried I buy, despite telling myself not to. It's a dangerous addiction, and it's a bit costly also. Which is why I'm going on a balm buying ban until I've got less than 7 by my bed. I currently have 13 on my bedside table, one in my school bag, one in my make-up bag (nearly finished though and excluding 'makeup' i.e. 2 Chubby Sticks) and one in Cyprus. It's way too many!

My mum came into my room on Saturday evening asking to borrow a hand cream...she couldn't see for all of my beauty products, and said 'I think you should stop buying stuff'. Whoops. I'll leave you with pictures of 4 and speedy reviews:

L'Occitane Shea Butter Lip Balm

My newest, bought at Duty Free, and so far it hasn't wowed me. It feels nice on the lips, and is a decent size, but I've used better. It does leave my lips soft, but it wouldn't be great for flaking lips, though it's fine if you just need a hit of moisture

This cost around 6 Euros, not too sure of UK prices though.

Yes to Carrots Lip Butter in Melon

Firstly, I wouldn't describe this as a butter. It's a rich moisturising balm, and it really smells of melon...a lot like my lovely EOS balm. I paid around £3 for this, probably on Amazon, and it's definitely been worth it. I can apply this in the morning and not have dry lips for hours! A definite new favourite of mine.

Nivea Essential Care Lip Balm

Average, relatively decent moisturisation is what comes to mind with this balm. It's good in emergencies, and you can always seem to find one in Boots, Superdrug & Tesco etc. It costs around £1.69-89? and is loved by many people. My one main niggle is that the balm becomes a bit gooey and crumbly as in the photo above.

The Body Shop 100% Natural Lip roll-on in Berry.

At first I honestly thought this was a gimmicky fail product and would suck the moisture out of my lips, like a certain Blistex Roll on used to. I was pleasantly surprised by how nice this feels on the lips, how sweet and subtle the scent is, and how this actually is a pretty decent moisturiser on me. It leaves a glossy sheen on your lips and retails for £4 from The Body Shop, and there are four other 'flavours' in the range. I think they're much better than TBS's lip butters, and I've yet to try their lip balms such as the Vitamin E one.

Have any of you tried any of these balms?

Fall apart in your hands

2011-12-05T21:59:00.000Z

You don't like it in the shadows but you won't let me shine a light, I would wash away your troubles, but it seems, the more that I hold on, the more that you let go, and I know, you better let somebody love you or find yourself, on your own...

Tell me why all the best laid plans fall apart in your hands, and my good intentions never end, the way I meant, the way I meant...

Wintry Nails.

2011-12-04T11:46:00.001Z

My ultimate stress-reliever?

Painting my nails prettily.

Not going to lie, this will take an age to remove.

RIP Grandma, 03/05/1925 - 04/12/2011 xxx

Klorane Samples.

2011-12-02T17:47:00.000Z

Last month I sent off for a free shampoo and conditioner sample from Klorane, and it arrived today...

I received 25mls of shampoo and 10mls of conditioner.

Despite not being blonde, I have an obsession with Camomile products as they generally do sooth the eczema on my scalp, and also they bring out my naturally blonde tones. I reckon I've enough shampoo to last two or three washes, and just one wash with the conditioner, 'cause I slather the stuff on like there's no tomorrow.

My opinions?

Shampoo:

I was getting on just fine with this shampoo; then my scalp began to have the same feeling as when I use any shampoos which contain the devil's ingredient; Sodium Laureth Sulphate. I just checked out the website, and sadly this, and Klorane's other shampoos, contain it. Such a shame, but I kind of guessed it contained it when a teensy squirt of this shampoo foamed up ridiculously. I've still got around 75% left of the shampoo, and I'll probably pass it onto a friend to try.
As this contains an ingredient which sets off my scalp eczema, despite how nice my hair may feel, my scalp feels on fire, nil points!

Conditioner:

I really like this conditioner. As estimated, I used up the entire sample in one wash, but it's worth it. I love the smell, and it's rich and creamy, and washed nicely. If I can find a price for this, I will probably purchase it in the near future.

Overall I'm a bit disheartened, but it's my own fault because I assumed a 'natural' company which uses friendly ingredients, with hypo-allergenic promises, wouldn't contain SLSs. I do like the conditioner, but excuse me now while I go and douse my scalp in freezing water.

I'm finding it hard to breathe.

2011-12-01T19:33:00.000Z

Ever get that feeling that everything around you is coming crashing down and you're finding it hard to breathe?

I'm suffocating, and there's honestly nothing I can do about it. My mind is numb, I feel like a walking ghost, I'm certain this will continue for as long as my Grandma is suffering. I don't want to lose her, I love her so so much, but it's inevitable, and it's happening right now. My friends keep asking me if I'm okay, 'cause I keep spacing out, and it's obvious that something's distressing me. I feel like crying the entire time, but to no avail. I honestly couldn't care less about school, university applications and exams at the moment; all I want is a bit longer to say goodbye, but I know that's not going to happen and it's tearing me up inside. It's selfish to want to keep her alive and suffering, but I don't want to lose her either. My Grandma has always been there for me, and nothing will be the same once she passes. I'm typing this in tears now, I'm not as strong as I make myself out to be. I'm vulnerable too, and I know I can't visit my Grandma again, because I still have nightmares of how both of my Grandpas looked just days before they passed on.

I love you Grandma, and always will, I'm sorry I'm not so strong. I don't know if you'll survive tonight, yet alone days, weeks or months. We honestly don't know. My Mum told me earlier that every time her mobile rings, she has a mini-heart attack inside, 'cause she's not as strong as she makes out either.

I love you so much, I can't imagine my life without you in it. I'm so grateful I've had 17 wonderful years with you, you truly are my favourite person ever.

November in a Nutshell.

2011-11-30T20:56:00.000Z

- Sent off UCAS application (still not heard anything from any universities though, and I sent my application on the 4th!).

- Achieved an A on a past AS German paper, fingers crossed for January retake!

- Stressed out majorly about school, exams, university etc.

- Learnt that my Grandma probably won't live to see the new year, and if she does then that will be a miracle.

- Went to Berlin with the Sixth Form German Classes at my school and had a really good weekend.

- Abstained from purchasing any nail polishes, quite an achievement. Still bought a few lip balms though...

- My skin had a fight with Simple's Kind to Skin Cleansing Wipes and still only received a response from Simple which didn't resolve the issue entirely, but due to family and exam stress I'm not pursuing the issue. Basically, my skin was blamed by Simple for the reaction, though I personally smell some BS in that.

- Posted about an issue that's very personal to me.

- On several occasions had no desire to turn up to certain lessons at school, and quite honestly still don't.

- Been missing Cyprus a hell of a lot.

What have been your ups and downs in November?

Trousers by the canal.

2011-11-29T19:39:00.001Z

Just a few more Berlin photos to brighten up this post a bit, hope everyone's okay!

Berlin 2011 was amazing.

2011-11-27T20:33:00.000Z

Jewish Memorial

Berlin Wall Memorial

Berlin Wall (favourite photo)

Reichstaggebaeude.

Nur wenn man in Deutschland ist...

2011-11-26T13:00:00.006Z

I'm really getting into some German music at the moment, Andreas Bourani being my new music crush. I love his song "Nur in meinem Kopf" (only in my head). The lyrics are lovely, his voice is rich and smooth, and I actually understand the entire song without needing to look up words...breakthrough perhaps?!

Enjoy.

I'd have gone wherever you wanted.

2011-11-25T18:37:00.000Z

Toothpaste is a sensitive issue for me; luckily I'm not as allergic to this one!

Available from Holland & Barrett; definitely worth the strange looks from the shop assistants!

Hopefully this has posted, should be in Berlin atm!

Media Manipulation

2011-11-21T13:12:00.020Z

If I can virtually airbrush a photo on Picnik in less than 2 minutes, no wonder the media screws with people's minds so easily. It's ridiculous how easy it is to manipulate an image to look more aesthetically pleasing, to prove a point. I'm not wearing makeup in these images. On the edited image, all I've done is 'autofix' the colours, and blemish-fixed (incl. freckle-removal), and it looks better, but I look like plastic...yay...I'll have to admit, it does scare me a bit.

What are your thoughts on image doctoring?

Unedited.


Edited.

Put it in all of the papers, I'm not afraid.

2011-11-20T13:36:00.000Z

This next week is going to be jam-packed; I've got just three days of school this week and then I'm going to Berlin on a Sixth Form German trip on Thursday!! I'm currently taking a break from writing an essay on 'Othello', and I need to decide what I'm taking with me to Berlin...it's going to be 6 degrees at best!

Good thing I bought this lovely scarf from New Look yesterday...

The colour is more true to life in this photo.

These retail for around £7.99 but I bought this on a promotional 30% offer so only paid £5 something!

New Look sell these in a few more colours, including teal and black, and this is the softest, warmest scarf I've ever worn!

And, of course, and obligatory cat spam:

I was ambushed at 8am, 'cause she didn't want to watch the X-Factor this morning with my mum; what an intelligent puddy!

Real talk, real life, good love, goodnight.

2011-11-18T20:00:00.000Z

How I spend my Friday evenings:

Damn it, I need a better social life.

Hash Browns aren't friends, even though they taste gorgeous.

McCains 1, Social Life -10.

'Kind to Skin'? Hell no!

2011-11-15T19:12:00.005Z

Simple's 'Kind to Skin Cleansing Wipes' have left me with the worst skin I've ever had in my life. How do I know these wipes are to blame? Over the weekend I ran out of facial wipes and decided to use one of my mum's wipes, before using my regular cleanser by Naked Bodycare. I've found these wipes drying in the past before, but once you witness the below pictures, you'll understand my problem. I'm certain that this product is to blame, as I've not changed anything else in my skincare routine, and I'm always dubious of changing to allegedly 'kind' products which aren't natural.

I used these wipes on Saturday, and here's how my chin and lip look today, three days on:


Swollen lip, complete with a crop of angry spots and dry skin?!

This is not normal.

On Simple's website and on the packets, they are claimed to be 'kind to skin' with 'no alcohol' etc. Basically, Simple appear to market these monstrosities as good for the skin. I disagree. Simple have lied about the alcohol content, which leads me to question whether or not they actually have tested these wipes on people with sensitive skin.


These are Simple's claims for this product, allegedly facts. They even say 'perfect for even sensitive skin'.

Oh, what's that? Alcohol?!

Overall I am fuming and really quite upset by how my skin has been left following ONE use of these wipes. There are no ingredients that I'm allergic to, as far as I'm aware, and I take antihistamines everyday so surely reactions would be stopped by this! I have contacted Simple and I'm hoping they get back to me quickly so I can link this blog post to them, complete with photos of how repulsive my skin now looks. No make-up can cover up how horrible it looks, and it's making me feel like utter crap.

Yummy close-up!

Edit: Simple have contacted me regarding this issue, and I'd like to state, for the record, that I'm expressing my views in a way which could be interpreted as slanderous, although they are not intended to be so.
I'm not saying you should avoid these products, I'm just advising caution if you've got very sensitive skin, as evidently I have.
I apologise to Simple for any upset caused.

And the shadow of the day.

2011-11-14T14:00:00.001Z

It feels like forever since I've last posted a nail post, so here's one from the weekend. As some of you may have noticed, I'm not really one for dark nails, due to having pink-ish hands, but I've decided to rotate some of my polishes and combos, and here's the result!

Sharpened quite drastically to capture the different blues!

I don't know why this one's being awkward either!

This is one coat Maybelline Nude Rose (as a base), in most cases one coat of No7's Beautifully Black, and two/three coats of Maybelline's Flash Cosmic. Oh how I love that topcoat!

Nothing but survival on the mind.

2011-11-13T17:03:00.001Z

I've seen this tag floating about recently, and thought 'why not?'. I'm not gonna lie, I'm a Lipstick-Newbie; I've only got 4 at the moment, but ohwell!

1. When you were a child, did you use your Mother's lipstick?

Nope. Considering my mum is more of a gloss person, and I was never allowed near her tiny make-up collection, until about 2 years ago I had no interest in make-up!

2. How old were you when you bought your first lipstick?

15. My first one was Natural Collection's 'Apple Blossom', oh how disgusting it looked on me. I wore it out of the house once, and was told I looked dead. Good thing it only cost me £1.99! Lipgloss is another matter...I used to love kiddy-ones when I was little, but now I cannot stand the stuff. I don't use even one lipgloss - the texture, smell etc; ugh. The BarryM ones that I bought with the Impulse offer...safely hidden away in the depths of my wardrobe (the scent of the strawberry one made me want to vomit!). So yeah, lipstick and balm over gloss anyday!

3. Pink or Red Lipstick?

Hmm, pink ones don't show up on my pigmented lips, but I'm not too sure on red.

4. The most expensive lipstick you've ever bought?

£7.99 for Max Factor's Colour Elixir in 'Pink Brandy', it's the lippy in the gold tube. Pink it is not, more like a cross between coral and red. It is lovely though, and I really NEED the 'Burnt Caramel' nude in my life! The Benefit lippie came free with my mum's phone, so that isn't the most expensive I've bought! Haha!

5. And the cheapest?

Natural Collection ones.

6. What's the most bizarre thing you've ever done with a lipstick?

Erm, nothing really.

7. If you had to recommend a lipstick brand, what brand would you choose and why?

I honestly don't know. I need to try MAC at some point, but can't justify the price, so I'll have to say the Max Factor Colour Elixir range, they are lush. Great pigment, smells yummy, long lasting, oh and did I mention it actually is moisturising?!

I tag everyone and anyone. Enjoy!

You're already the voice inside my head.

2011-11-12T12:02:00.000Z

When I was in Cyprus in October, I spent quite a bit of time chilling with these gorgeous cats, in the corner of the car park at my parent's flat...

I revisited catty-acquaintances and made some new friends along the way, i.e. this soppy little kitten with a mangled tail! His mum is the one rolling on her side in the third picture, and the first time I met her she was sitting in a tree trunk, no joke!

In contrast, my cat is slightly stranger.

I don't even have the words to explain why my cat loves sitting in dirty clothes, ugh!

Teaching myself Greek, to add to my repertoire of languages...now consisting of basic Russian and Greek, 4 years of French (mostly forgotten), and A-level German!

I also like to draw...

I appreciate that this is a bit of a random filler post, but please bear with; I've just been revising for the past two hours for my English Lit. resit in January. I'm getting there, so there is a reason for my slightly scatty posts at the moment.

Hope everyone's having a nice weekend x

2 Years

2011-11-09T17:55:00.002Z

♥ Two years is two too many.
Rest in Peace, x

Is it just me

2011-11-08T21:01:00.001Z

or is anybody else fed up of all of the reality-tv crap that's on our tv screens constantly these days? 'The Only Way is Essex', 'Made in Chelsea', 'The Xfactor' etc...why does this country like being fed horse-crap all the time? I don't care what some orange idiots in Essex or untalented 'singers' want to do for fame!

Ps. I'm in a great mood this week; you can tell, I'll bet!

edit: no offence meant to anybody who does watch these shows, just my opinions :)

I'm getting tired of this.

2011-11-07T18:03:00.002Z

I turn up out of my own free will; I don't legally have to go to school, but I choose to. My point is, I will not be made a laughing stock by a teacher of all people. I don't give a damn about turning up anymore. I'm not strong enough.

I wish you would step back from that ledge, my friend.

2011-11-06T20:02:00.000Z

I've been a slacker of a blogger this week; I've been quite busy and not just with the general A-Level work as usual. I can't be bothered to write an essay as such today, so I'm going to just bullet my thoughts and what I've been up to:

- On Thursday I sent off my UCAS form. I'm looking forward to acknowledgement emails from the universities, and hopefully at least one offer sometime in the near future....fingers crossed!

- I'm feeling quite relieved with the response I've received from my last post. When I wrote it, I almost deleted it, deliberately scheduling the timing for when I'd be at school and therefore unable to delete it immediately. Just to clarify, it wasn't an attempt at attention seeking in any shape or form; it's just an issue which affects me quite badly from time to time, but thankfully I'm learning to get over it.

- Last night I was actually sociable *shock horror*. I met up with my best friend from primary and we went for an Indian meal with our parents (they're all good friends too, ha!). It was good, and it gave me a solid excuse for avoiding fireworks; they scare the heebie-jeebies out of me.

- Fireworks are annoying me now. I've heard/seen them for the past week I've been home, ALL WEEK. Even right now, as I write this!

- I'm probably not going to be post as regularly until after the 24th of January; blame exam re-sits and A2 English Exam! In German on Friday we went through the AS paper, which I screwed up tremendously (36/70, oh dear), and it's definitely given me the motivation to push myself ridiculously hard for both that and my two English exams...the re-take English being on the same day as German. Ultimate Sod's Law, right??

ps. I miss Cyprus.

If I'm ugly then so are you, so are you.

2011-11-03T13:00:00.028Z

During my first two years at secondary school, from the ages 11-13, I was 'friends' with a group of girls who wrecked both my self-belief and my self-esteem.

I'll never forget the day that I was exiled from joining in their 'appearance ratings' because I was myself and wasn't carrying a pencil or an eyeliner to write with. Still, they judged me irregardless of the fact I clearly wasn't allowed to judge them. Whilst they gave each other scores of no less than 7s for their facial attributes, I was rewarded with about a 4 at highest; basically being awarded the label of 'ugly'.

This type of thing never leaves you. Four and a half years on, I remember that day as though it was just last week, and it haunts me still. Why is this all coming out now, you may ask? On the bus yesterday (Wednesday), a year 7 boy, a 12 year old, asked me if girls would be insulted if a boy was to call them 'ugly' or 'fat'. The obvious answer is yes. My reply? 'The ugly one doesn't affect me; I know I'm ugly'. The two people in my year on the bus looked at me with puzzled expressions but said nothing, and the year 7 boy timidly replied 'but I thought you're okay'.

Bitchy words from a bunch of 13 year old girls never leave you, and will always gnaw away at your self-esteem and confidence; forever leaving you feeling 'the ugly one'. I know I'm not ugly, but I haven't got the confidence to admit this self-acknowledgement to even my best friends.

If I could write you a symphony.

2011-11-02T18:48:00.001Z

I can't believe it's November already; where has this year gone?! It's ridiculous yet good at the same time, 'cause I'm off to Berlin for four days at the end of the month with my A Level German class & the AS class. I cannot wait, it sounds like it'll be a really good trip, despite the early start on the day we depart, and the fact that we'll be spending our Saturday wandering around a concentration camp...

Time for another bit of Boyce Avenue loving, this time a cover of Third Eye Blind's 'Jumper'. I'm addicted to this song, and if you'll have a listen, you'll understand why. I'm so gutted I haven't bought tickets to see them live in Shepard's Bush tomorrow night!

Our friend's cute kitten in Cyprus!

Happy Hallowe'en!

2011-10-31T12:00:00.001Z

Edit: sorry for any confusion; this is not created out of make-up, it was edited on Picnik as I missed out on all of the halloween festivities as I was away the weekend before!

lazing on a sunny afternoon

2011-10-29T12:54:00.000+01:00

Hi, remember me? Probably not, 'cause I've been an absent blogger this week! Right now I'm sitting in a cypriot bar, watching Arsenal most likely lose to Chelsea, in 23degree heat!

Sing it for the world.

2011-10-26T21:08:00.000+01:00

Blobby Pencil Toppers anyone?

Oh, how I miss these size 6 Topshop Shorts! First thing I ever bought in Toppers! I should have worn this outfit; I felt much more comfy in this than the dress I actually wore that night!

I miss the good ole days when this was what my little blog was all about. Blobby's, possible outfits that I never wore to a party, and a good cup of RosieLee!

What picture memories does anyone else have of the beginnings of their blog?

Mistreated, misplaced, misunderstood.

2011-10-22T18:06:00.000+01:00

Ever get that feeling you've let something important in your life pass you by?

I think I just have.

Damn.

And did you miss me while you were looking for yourself out there?

2011-10-20T22:30:00.002+01:00

I cannot wait to leave my school and hopefully go on to university if I achieve the grades. Writing a Personal Statement which involves three subjects was hard, but I'm pleased with my efforts, and hopefully my teachers will predict me ABB, which is good considering I need at least ABB - BBC to be considered seriously for any of my chosen courses.

When my references get written and sent to my form tutor, I will be applying for three types of courses:

Kings College London - German with Film Studies
Kings College London - German
Bristol - German & Russian
Birmingham - Modern Languages BA, German & Russian
Exeter - Modern Languages BA, German & Russian

I never originally wanted to stay in the London area, I honestly wanted to preferably go to a university far away from home, but, as you can see, I'm applying for two courses at KCL because the atmosphere was lovely, the lectures sound interesting, and the lecturers themselves, at a German Taster Course, were brilliant. Ideally I'd probably apply for solely German & Russian courses, although KCL doesn't offer Russian, and the Film Studies course sounds amazing, which has made choosing one specific course quite tricky! If I get an offer for either KCL course, I will be so so so happy. Wishful thinking, eh?!

It feels nice to write this down, I know what I'm aiming towards, and I honestly hope I can just achieve the grades!

Jenny was a friend of mine.

2011-10-17T20:44:00.000+01:00

Okay, here's the deal, after a year and a half, I reckon it's time to show the internet my ugly mug; I apologise in advance if people end up with smashed computer screens...I joke, I joke.

Hi, I'm Jenny. I generally look terrified/terrifying in photos but I'm not really a psychopath-in-training!

Anyone else hate posting pictures of themselves?

Please?

2011-10-17T14:18:00.000+01:00

Definitely and defiantly are not the same thing. I want to scream so much when people muddle these two up.

DEFINITELY is when something is DEFINITE.

DEFIANTLY is when something is DEFIANT.

Their meanings couldn't be more dissimilar!

I'm not meaning to sound harsh, but if you're going to use a word, at least use it in the correct context.

'I defiantly love this!' is not 'I definitely love this!'

Like you're the only one who knows my heart.

2011-10-15T17:18:00.000+01:00

Today's post is a bit different to normal, 'cause I've been given an award to pass on by the lovely Jess!

Thank you so much, Jess! If you haven't already, please check out Jess's blog Bambina - it's one of the ones I've read constantly for months, possibly a year or so, now!

So, here's the part where I'm meant to tell you guys 7 things about myself, well here goes:

1) I did gymnastics for around 8 years of my life, and guess what? I can still do the splits!

2) I spend at least 4 hours a day listening to music...is this bad?

3) The Simpsons' and 'Would I Lie To You?' are my two favourite tv shows at the moment.

4) I'm ridiculously lazy and I eat way too much i.e. potatoes.

5) I generally have a very moody expression on my face, on a day to day basis, but I'm honestly not that grumpy!

6) I find it really hard and awkward to fill out these things without sounding like an idiot, haha!

7) As much as I'd want to, I can't seem to wear eye makeup without my eyes hurting and being puffy for two days afterwards!

I'm going to pass this award onto a three bloggers who write blogs that I absolutely adore!

Tor at The New Closet Romantic

Charlotte at kook.

Alice at Schadenfreude

enjoy x

EOS Lip Balm in 'Honeysuckle Honeydew'

2011-10-13T21:13:00.000+01:00

Yum! is the word that comes to mind when I think of this balm. Since I received it a few days ago, I've used it quite enough times to have formed a reasonable opinion.

Evolution of Smooth is a company with a creative genius! Look at how innovative this spherical balm is; love the shape and design. The picture above is roughly the actual size of the EOS balm!

Apologies, this was taken at night on my phone.

To use this lip balm, you simply screw off the cap and apply the spherical balm directly to closed lips and then rub your lips together. The Honeysuckle Honeydew flavour is gorgeous, and I'm so glad I chose it. It oddly enough tastes of Honeydew melon, yum yum yum! It's moisturising and you can actually feel it helping!

Apologies, as above.

EOS's balm contains 95% organic ingredients and 100% natural products, brilliant for a natural product lover like myself! The only negative of this product is that it's not readily available in the UK. My research tells me that this balm, along with other flavours, retails for around $3 in America. I paid £4.75 for this balm, + £2.75 shipping from Naturally Fabulous via Amazon.co.uk - pricey, yes! though seeing as I'm not exactly going to fly to America anytime soon, it was a price I was willing to pay.

Has anyone tried an EOS balm before?

And you're miles away.

2011-10-11T17:21:00.002+01:00

Can you guess what it is?

More photos and a review will follow at some point in the future, namely once I've battled my way through tons of German homework & ICT Coursework, bought some batteries and also when I have a non-corrupted memory card!

I'm not feeling too great at the moment; a combination of stress (my first two exams are in three months and a day!), lack of energy and possible tonsillitis, is not the one.

Hope everyone has a lovely week!

Answer: An EOS lipbalm!

Ps. 300th non-deleted post!!

Ego.

2011-10-10T20:33:00.001+01:00

Some people have such big egos it's untrue.

Trying to prove something when you're with your friends only makes you look more of an egotistical idiot than I already thought you were.

Laugh with your friends, it doesn't bother me; if it did, you'd have gotten a bigger reaction out of me than a simple walk away without looking back.

I'm glad I didn't waste my breath.

Kick it up a notch.

2011-10-07T22:14:00.000+01:00

I've got my motivation back, hopefully it'll last this time! I've started writing notes and quotes out already in preparation for my English retake, and I've got a shed load of German to do this weekend, so I doubt I'll be writing another post 'til next week...I'll see how it goes!

Unrelated, but I like this photo.

Anyways, I've got another music-crush - Kele ft. Lucy Taylor's 'What Did I Do'. It's mainly Lucy Taylor singing, and she's sung with Kele before and I think they're absolutely brilliant together! Anyone else seen the 'Live at the BBC' recordings? I love them!

I cannot wait for Kele to release his new EP 'The Hunter'!

You've got a fast car.

2011-10-05T22:35:00.001+01:00

I could really use a wish right now.

2011-10-03T20:42:00.000+01:00

Has anyone else ever come across Boyce Avenue whilst browsing Youtube? I found a cover of theirs yesterday and I'm addicted. Boyce Avenue are a seriously talented bunch of guys, and I absolutely love love love their cover of BoB and Hayley Williams' Airplanes. In my opinion, it is so much better than the original.

You know I like a song if I cannot stop listening to it on repeat. Seriously guys, listen to it; you'll be missing out if you don't!

PS. two music-related posts in one day? Uh-oh...!

BLOC PARTY IS STILL BLOC PARTY.

2011-10-03T15:07:00.000+01:00

This makes me very happy indeed!

The band wouldn't be the same if the rumoured changes take place!

We promised the world we'd tame it.

2011-10-02T13:24:00.003+01:00

Feeble Picnik Attempt 1

Slightly better attempt 2

Glamorous Indie Rock and Roll is what I want.

2011-10-01T11:26:00.000+01:00

I've finally learned how to apply eyeliner to my top lash line; I can tell this is going to be a productive weekend! My eyes are probably going to kill me tomorrow though, sad times.

I'm really slacking on the wordy-posts recently; I blame the stress of school. Eep.

Overdue Cat Spam.

2011-09-29T15:29:00.000+01:00

Again, it may surprise a few people who read this blog, but I like cats. Also I've finally learned how to spell 'surprise'. Brilliant surprise fact of the day, ey!

All We Found Was More Despair.

2011-09-26T17:17:00.000+01:00

Hello, hope everyone's well!

I'm still limping about on a foot that's akin to a flipper, so I can't be blamed for having the time to do my nails, yet again! Actually, I'd have painted the nails regardless.

This little creation is made up from one coat Maybelline Nude Rose, one coat Barry M Gold and one/two coats of Maybelline Flash Cosmic. Enjoy the pictures, I've got to do a German Essay now, joys!

Have a lovely week everyone! x

Sort Yo' Sizes Out, New Look.

2011-09-24T13:40:00.002+01:00

New Look clothing. Three things come to mind; price increase, nice styles, size increase?!

I'm a size 8 as standard in most other major fashion retailers in the UK, but these days I can't even attempt to buy any New Look clothing, especially skirts and trousers, 'cause even the size 6s are too damn big! It's not my body shape that's causing the issue here; it's the ever increasing sizing of New Look's clothing.

Today I tried on size eight trousers and jeans from an assortment of brands; Dorothy Perkins, Miss Selfridge, Oasis, Warehouse and New Look. The jeans in Dorothy Perkins fit like the metaphorical gloves, the Miss Selfridge trousers fitted at the waist, but weren't that nice on the legs, the Oasis trousers were not proportionally adequate (left-over sale item, any wonder?!), the Warehouse trousers were similar to Oasis, and in New Look the size sixes fell down.

Whilst in New Look I tried on three different styles of trousers, in both sixes and eights. The ankles of the sixes were way too tight, the legs too baggy, like-wise with the waist & bottom area. The ankles of the eights were perfect, the legs humongous, and the waist & bottom area was a joke. I probably could have fitted myself twice into these trousers, in all seriousness.

Criminal 1; New Look Chinos. (Ps. I'm aware of what shape they're meant to be when worn)

So, what the hell is going on? I've not lost weight and my body isn't distributing it strangely. What I think is going on, is due to the 'average UK size' being around a 16, New Look, amongst other brands, are deliberately increasing size margins in order to make this average seem too high... I mean, what size 12 wouldn't be thrilled to fit into a pair of size eight trousers! Problem is though, I'd need to buy a size 2 or 4, if I were to get a decent fit. What the actual...?

Which leads me to my final question; what are the skinnier girls amongst us meant to do? Only shop in around three stores i.e. Jane Norman, Miss Selfridge and Dorothy Perkins? Become naturists? Heck no!; England is way too cold for that.

Walked home in bare feet.

2011-09-20T20:20:00.001+01:00


(Please excuse the grotty skin.) Close up of Maybelline's Flash Cosmic over Barry M's Bright Purple - look how gorgeous this is!

I honestly don't know what to say. I'm planning to write a review, but Sixth Form is draining all of my energy presently and I'll probably not get a chance to post again 'til the weekend. The first few weeks back at my school are always hectic; Speech Night tomorrow, which I suppose I have to attend, despite so many people trying their hardest not to, plus my friend can only get there if she gets a lift with me...

Yay, I love having to go in for two hours, only to go back for two and a half more in the same evening. Have a nice week guyz!

Blogger Etiquette.

2011-09-18T22:04:00.000+01:00

Just a little thing that's been bothering me recently - 'follow me' comments + bloggers who'll follow you and then 'un-follow' once you've not followed them as requested in a comment.

Stop fishing for followers, I'm not going to follow someone who posts a comment and expects me to follow them because of one measly four word comment. Besides, if you post a comment asking me to follow you, and don't follow me, well that's just damn rude and hypocritical, no?

pst. not saying this as a general rule, but I'm sure the majority of you will know the type I'm talking about!

Stuck in her daydream.

2011-09-17T10:43:00.000+01:00

"Yet another lip balm review?!"

I buy too many lip balms. There, I said it. Today I want to talk about my most recent purchase; Badger Balm's Vanilla Madagascar, which cost me a mere £2.45 from www.supersmoocher.com. £2.45 well spent, I must say!

I didn't like Crazy Rumours' French Vanilla at all. It tasted and smelt of chili powder, and wasn't very moisturising. It was a let down, to say the least. I'm very happy with my Badger Balm though!

It really does taste and smell of vanilla, yes that's right; what it's meant to smell of! The Badger Balm is basically an organic balm which is lovely and moisturising, cheap, and doesn't break the bank! Love love love it so far, and I can see myself repurchasing in the future! It's quickly becoming a favourite...after 3 days.

Yum, organic goodness!


For £2.45 you get 4.2g of product, not bad!

Has anyone else tried this, and what are your favourite balms?

Ich weiss nichts was zu tun.

2011-09-14T22:13:00.001+01:00

Entschuldigung, dass ich auf Deutsch schreibe, da ich so schlecht bin!

(Excuse that I'm writing in German, as I'm so terrible at it!)

Ich bin die Doofste meine Klasse, eugh.

(I'm the most stupid in my class, eugh.)

GAH, I'm going to fail my A2's at this rate; ICT is sheer confusion, English is hard, and German is causing me trauma. I think this is because I can no longer hide in a larger class, echt cool! or not.

*corrections by Jenni, Danke!

I give up.

2011-09-13T20:22:00.000+01:00

Crutches have so far done more harm than good;

1 - My other ankle frigging kills now.
2 - My hypermobile elbow is now rotating 180+degrees all of a sudden.
3 - Everytime I walk, the too-long crutches jolt my ribcage, painfully.
4 - My blisters are painful.
5 - Bruises due to too-big crutches and being skinny, is again, painful.
6 - My hands feel lovely and bruised.

My swollen foot hurts less than all of those. I hate crutches, why couldn't the hospital have given me ones for children; the one's that are practically murdering me are too long, even on the shortest setting. FML.

Crutches are not my friend

2011-09-12T16:55:00.001+01:00

I hate hate hate crutches. Now my other ankle hurts too...garrrrrh! Double-jointed elbows + crutches = very dangerous, and blisters aren't fun. Please get better soon ankle; I feel so awkward with crutches, it's untrue. Plus stairs are my enemy.

Hope everyone's had a good day :)

There's hope in the air.

2011-09-08T21:16:00.001+01:00

Laura Marling has an incredible voice. I honestly don't know why I've not listened to her music ever, until this past weekend.

I've been back at school since Tuesday afternoon and I'm finding it okay so far. I'm not too sure about the days where I've only got two lessons out of five scheduled, but maybe this could be an advantage. So far, I've been spending my free periods reading books...in German. I've forgotten how to form sentences, and I'm hoping that by reading lots and lots, I'll snap back into it fairly quickly.

It's amazing how ~~little~~ tiny my classes are this year; there's just ~~six~~ five of us in my German lessons, 9 in ICT, and 10 in English! I'm really sad that I'm no longer learning any Psychology, but I suppose that it'll be a benefit in the long-run, to only study 3 subjects very intensively at A2.

My personal statement is coming along nicely, although I'm struggling to find any reason, other than loving German, for wanting to study it at university!

Sorry if this is a bit of a ramble, I'm just glad I have this little piece of the web to post things (and improve my writing skills!).

How...

2011-09-06T16:39:00.000+01:00

is Lady Gaga a role model and aspirational?

She looks like a prostitute.

You don't fit in this playpen.

2011-09-04T21:17:00.001+01:00

Who's Laughing Now - Jessie J

Yet another nail post, I'm becoming a tad unoriginal; whoops. This time, it's BarryM's Boots Ltd. 030, as usual, paired with my new love, Maybelline's Flash Cosmic.

Two coats BarryM, one coat Maybelline.

I'll admit that the topcoat looks more gold than blue from this angle, but I thought it'd be good to show this over a polish which doesn't have similar tones to the Maybelline.

Oooh, it works!

Successful? You be the judge.

ps. I'm sorry my posts are becoming sporadic; I'm at a loss for words, and I have a feeling my posting will become a bit more irregular, as I need to focus more on my A-Levels this year. I need to boost my grades, especially German, else it's college to study Journalism, post-A2.

pss. I'm amazed to have 80 followers now, I'm glad my blog interests people! :)

I think my netbook has died.

2011-09-02T11:39:00.003+01:00

Ich wär so gern dabei gewesen doch ich hab viel zu viel zu tun.

2011-09-01T17:49:00.001+01:00

I cannot believe it's September already; where has the year gone?! This time next year I'll, hopefully, be preparing to go off to university, which is a terrifyingly daunting prospect.

I'm really not looking forward to my last year of school, 'cause I'm retaking my English AS exam and my ~~lovely~~ German AS Listening, Reading & Writing exam, and of course I've then got English and ICT coursework to worry about, alongside summer exams and completing my personal statement, applying for unis... blah de blah de blah...

I go back to re-enrol for my A-Level choices on Tuesday, and I'm really sad that I'm dropping Psychology, as I love the subject, but it took up a lot of revision time which was evidently needed for English and German, and I still only just about achieved a C grade.

The lyrics in the title come from a song by German singer, Tim Bendzko, and I'd recommend a listen even if you don't understand German, 'cause he's got a lovely voice. The title translates as something similar to 'Only a short amount of time to save the world'; wouldn't it be great if the English language could be conjugated with meaning in less words?!

Sorry for the waffle, enjoy the blog and song x

I need a better sense of humour, sorry!

Wouldn't it be too divine?

2011-08-30T21:50:00.000+01:00

My love for Bloc Party is showing, oop.

I advise a listen ^.

2011-08-29T20:33:00.001+01:00

I'm partial to the odd witch hazel product or two...okay, I'm addicted to witch hazel.

Witch hazel is a brilliant astringent which is great for toning the skin, clearing spots and bringing out bruises, amongst other things. Collectively my mother and I go through around 12 bottles a year, crikey! My paternal grandmother is the reason my mum started using witch hazel back in the 1980's, and at 93, as bonkers as she may be, her skin is still pretty damn good!

Witch Skincare products naturally contain 'Witch hazel extract' which is always a good start! I must have gotten through three of Witch's Blemish Sticks so far, and have been using this Blemish Gel since, urm, Thursday. My skin's been playing up a bit recently, what with travelling on the train and being a teenager, and as this is so reasonably priced, at £3.00ish for 35ml, I couldn't resist...

I re-used a photo so shoot me.

So far, so good! This is nice and cooling and as soon as it's applied you can feel it getting into the pores, as claimed by Witch, and clearing spots! I'll persevere and hopefully this gel will keep working, but for now, thumbs up to Witch Skincare!

Has anyone else tried these products?

Tips from an almost average teenager, part 5.

2011-08-26T22:29:00.001+01:00

If the rain seems torrential or it's forecast to rain, please do not wear ballet flat style shoes to walk to train stations and then walk around a shopping centre. Especially if said shoes have slight holes in. My feet were soaked and cold, all day.

disclaimer: this may also come under the category 'common sense'.

Westfield London Haul.

2011-08-25T17:36:00.001+01:00

Today I went up to London with my mum and brother, and we went shopping at Westfield! I'd never been before, and wasn't sure what to expect, but gosh is it huge! My mum very kindly gave me £25 to buy some clothes with, and I didn't do badly!

New Look:


(I can't hang up my clothes to take photos in my room, apologies!)

Eeh, 'gold' buttons!

I'm aware that everyone and their mum has at least one of these, but I need a new blouse for school and I should be able to get away with wearing this! Lovely fabric and not too bad a price, especially considering I've been meaning to buy this for around four months!

I always buy jumpers a size up, just so they're cosy!

I love the sleeves of this!

Again, another purchase with Sixth Form in mind, cause I've outgrown some of my year 12 stuff! I really like the colour, and it's so so so soft and cosy!

H&M:

My local H&M is a disaster; I can never find any decent clothes in there, and it's always a mess! Thankfully, this one was a bit better! As well as this jumper, I was contemplating a skirt and a pair of trousers, although I'd have had to have bought a size 10 in the trousers 'cause they were so tight and tiny! Gah! So gutted they weren't in stock!

I actually adore this jumper. I love it so much that I've been wearing it since I bought it. I think the pictures say it all! It cost £7.99, I think, and I'd happily pay a bit more!

Bought anything nice recently?

Five to Follow.

2011-08-23T20:58:00.001+01:00

I feel like spreading some 'blog love' today, sharing 5 of my favourite blogs, in alphabetical order!

Louise's blog, Affordable Treats, has been one of my favourites ever since I started blogging! The way Louise writes, and her lovely pictures, always seem to make me want to buy the products she's posting about. This is definitely one to follow if you want to read about both beauty products and real life!

When I first started reading Hannah's blog, Beautylishious<3, I couldn't work out why she looked so familiar. Then I realised that Hannah actually goes to my school! Hannah's posts are always really interesting, whether they're about haircare, lipstick, clothing or whatnot! Another great blog to check out and follow!

Jen, at JenKissesApples, again writes one of my favourite blogs! Her posts are always well written, interesting and generally have a lovely humorous quality about them. Some of my favourite posts of Jen's include reviews of lipsticks 'cause she always goes into lots of detail with really good swatches of colours. Please check out her blog too!

Charlotte's blog was one of the first I ever followed when I originally got my blogger account. There's several things I've always loved about Charlotte's blog: her posts are always beautifully thought-out and presented; Charlotte knows her literature!; her outfits that she posts are always gorgeous, especially the ones which feature items of clothing that Charlotte has made!; and last but not least, Charlotte has recently started selling bespoke jewellery, which is also worth a look!

last but not least...

I've only recently started reading Tor's blog, but it's up there with my favourites. Tor is lovely and we've frequently had chats via comments relating to posts on both of our blogs. Tor's posts are always a good read! What makes Tor's blog even more interesting, is that she frequently posts about vegan food recipes, which always look so so so scrummy! Again, definitely worth a browse and a follow!

Enjoy!

I'll give you nothing but truth.

2011-08-22T20:59:00.000+01:00

I have too much stuff.

32 nail polishes...oh dear!

I would dig a thousand holes to lay next to you

2011-08-21T16:21:00.000+01:00

Just a few more snippy-snaps of Cyprus, taken by both my mother and myself. I miss the hot weather and blue blue blue skys so much already!

Colours and Carousels.

2011-08-20T13:48:00.000+01:00

My puddy-cat using my tummy as a pillow!

I love this cat so much, and I would honestly post more photos of her, but as you might notice from this, she's quite dark (black cat, ha) and hard to capture on camera. Plus she's not very photogenic. Just look at her nose, and you'll understand why she's even more gorgeous in reality.

Oh gawsh, I sound like a crazy cat lady. Oh well, it was always going to be my destiny; may as well start somewhere!

Cutest Bookmark Ever?

2011-08-20T11:02:00.009+01:00