What I Ate Wednesday

Seeing as it's Wednesday, I thought I would throw in a 'What I ate Wednesday' post. Even though I haven't featured one of these posts before, I thought I would write about what I ate today.

 Breakfast

I love a good cuppa in the morning and it's kinda become a routine of mine so I brewed some fresh tea around an hour before I ate breakfast. I have been experimenting with different fruits so today I went for something very refreshing, fat free coconut yogurt, passion fruit & blueberries.

  

Lunch

After hydrating myself with a bottle of water, I prepared some lunch. I wanted something with carbs so I would feel fuller for longer. I made gluten free pasta with a tomato and mushroom sauce on top of a fair amount of spinach. I love in-coperating spinach into my meals because it's an amazing super food that makes you feel full right through till dinner.

Dinner

For dinner I peeled and chopped a sweet potato to make some sweet potato fries (which are my absolute favourite) along side with chopped tuna and spinach. Shortly after dinner I had a pint of water and an oat bar to wave goodbye to those sweet cravings.

On a daily basis, I ensure I hydrate regularly with plenty of water to stop nasty headaches and to keep me satisfied between each meal.

I hope you enjoyed something a little different tonight so let me know if you want to see more posts like this because I will be more than happy to share it with you.

HAPPY HUMP DAY!

February Favourites

Today I bring you my favourites throughout February.

There are just so many things I fall in love with every month so narrowing products/things down to a reasonable amount is quite a challenge. Never the less, I have put together the bits and bobs that I have been loving and found myself reaching for most, last month.

Morphe Buffer Brush - M439

I posted about my new Morphe brushes a couple of weeks back, click Morphe Brush Delivery to have a little look, so you all know this wasn't the only one! I absolutely adore this brush and can say that it's probably my all time favourite face brush; that's a big deal. The fibres are densely packed so you achieve a flawless finish, no matter what foundation you use. Morphe brushes are a dream to wash and this brush has been the perfect addition to my kit.

Zoella Make-Up Bag

I have quite a collection of Zoella products but I think this is the cutest yet! I love make-up bags because they're so handy for travelling; this one in particular fits all my everyday make-up in and is super adorable. Also it's pink...can't really go wrong there.

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

I bet you've seen so many posts about this already so I thought I would join the club. I purchased the travel sized bottle just so I could try it out first before committing to the bigger bottle. I love this! I use it on a cotton pad after I have taken my make-up off and it's also very handy for cleaning away and tidying up eye make-up. Definitely worth the money!

PrimaLash #747S Lashes

Lashes can be expensive, especially when you are using them all the time for so many different reasons. I found these lashes last year on Amazon and read some amazing reviews about them so I thought to try them out, they were a bargain (around £2.00) so either way, I wasn't splashing out! I was amazed, I have ordered these lashes twice now in bulk because they are such good quality and ridiculously cheap. These are the most natural lashes and can be worn more than once, literally perfect!

Organix Coconut Milk

Since having my hair cut, I wanted a trusty, nourishing serum to apply. I brought this in boots because I saw the words 'Anti-Breakage' and I don't regret it. I use this twice to three times a week depending on what condition my hair is in and it does exactly what it says. My god, my hair has never felt so soft and healthy; oh and coconut scents are every ones weakness right?!

L'Oreal Infallible Primer

I needed a primer so after seeing post after post about the 'Infallible' range, I gave it a go. I love this primer and never forget to apply this before my make-up. This is so comparable to many high end products which is why it has made the cut for my February favourites.

L'Oreal Infallible Fixing Mist

I had my heart set on the Urban Decay Setting Spray until I came across this one. Seeing as I had purchased the primer, I thought I would buy the pair because I thought they would go quite well together. When I first used this, my make-up stayed put and didn't smudge all day. I mean, when you get through a whole day of shopping with a flawless face, you know what to thank!

Soap & Glory Sunkissed Tint Body Lotion

 I am not a huge fan of fake tan because the result is often a failure. I got this for Christmas but I used it a couple of weeks ago when I knew I was going to have my legs out. This says 'No-Streak' & 'Long-Wear' which is absolutely correct. As soon as you put this on your skin, BOOM you're tanned. No waiting around for a tan to develop, easily washable and best of all, you're not left with orange patches and streaks. I am in love with this product!

Pretty Little Liars 

 Like many, I am a huge PLL fan. I started watching this so much later than everyone else and continuted watching it again last month. I am completly hooked and if you don't know what it is, go check it out! Look at those girls though, I wish I was that sassy!

I hope you liked reading about what I loved last month and still do!

What were some of your February favourites?

Exam Survival Guide

Exams are coming! Urgh.

Highlighters, revision guides, timetables, coursework, test papers, sticky notes, flash cards and candidate tags are going to be your worst enemy throughout the next couple of months so I decided to put together a couple of tips, tricks and advice to help you make it through till schools out for summer. 

When I was at school doing my exams, stress was an understatement however sleepless nights and migraines were my new best friends. It can be stressful and worrying when you come to the realisation that you need to prepare for tests and coursework deadlines. But forget all that, I am here to put that smile back on your face and help you out.

1. Splash out on cute Stationary

Get yourself some cute notebooks, diaries and planners to organise your exams and revision time. Planning your revision in between other activities and breaks can help put everything into perspective.

TIP: Use brightly coloured pens, paper and highlighters to categorise subjects and topics.

2. Prioritise Snacks & Beverages

I know the feeling of craving fatty and sugary food, but DON'T give into temptation! Combine something sweet with some brain food. Bananas are a great snack or breakfast component to provide the energy you need from the first bell to the last; try being more creative with your meals and making this an important part of the day during this time.

TIP: Avoid caffeine, even if you need those extra hours before bed, it'll only make it worse.

3. Water, Water, Water

If you don't have a bottle of water on you then you need to find a water source ASAP. Ensuring you're hydrating yourself whenever you can is important for the skin and mind. Computer work and revision can cause huge strain and leads to migraines, keep up with the water and take regular breaks away from all things educational.

TIP: When the warmer weather finally arrives, freeze a bottle of water so it stays cold and refreshing all day.

4. Chuck on your Running Shoes

 Although exercise can be tiring and for most of us, a pain in the arse (literally) it really does help with relieving stress and giving you some loving energy. Head to the gym, take a stroll round your local park, take a friend swimming...regular exercise during exams can boost your mood and provides that little spring in your step when you most need it.

TIP: Update your workout wardrobe by buying a new sports bra to make yourself feel good no matter how much you sweat.

5. Pamper Yourself

Have yourself some pamper time, it's not all about cramming information into one space at one time. Gather together some pampering products and give your skin a break. If you want to go all out, head down to lush and pick yourself your favourite bath bomb.

TIP: Have a warm bath at night and a cool shower in the morning to wake those tired eyes up!

6. Get rid of Distractions

Turning off your phone will help massively when it comes to exams because it will be the number one thing to take your attention away from your revision. I have learnt from experience so turn off the telly, turn off your phone and don't tweet a thing till you have completed that revision period.

TIP: If you can resist the temptation then create a long play list full of your favourite music, plug in those headphones and work, work, work!

So those are my top tips and advice from one girl to another on surviving the toughest months of school. There is no need to freak out and get anxious at the thought of unfolding your exam timetable, follow my tips and Summer will arrive along with those A's.

What do you study?

Best Friend Gift Giving

Hey lovelies, so im sure you all know that Valentines is just around the corner; for some it is the most beautiful day full of roses and love whereas for others, it's about spending the day with your best girl friends with a ton of ice-cream and hours spent watching girly chick flicks. However you choose to spend it, there are always things to do and ways you can celebrate whether you're a single pringle, in a blossoming relationship or in a childhood sweatheart marraige.

I thought I would start spreading the word of love by sharing with you some ideas for the best friend in your life. You love your best friend right? then let them know with some of the gift ideas I have come up with. Because I am so thoughtful, I have organised my ideas into catorgories so if you are sticking to a specific budget this year then you can browse the price range you have in mind, although personally, it's always the thought that counts, pricetag or not!

£0 - £5

Girly Sleepover - Free (Except the snacks of course)

Claires: Pink Heart Pom Pom Keyring - £5.00

Superdrug: Zoella Blistful Mistful Solid Fragrance - £5.00

Lush: Lover Lamp Bath Bomb - £3.95

£10 - 15

Lush: Two Hearts Gift Box -£13.95

Topshop: Unicron iPhone Case - £12.00

Paperchase: Patchwork Heart Scrapbook - £12.00

Paperchase: White Metal Heart Photo Frame - £10.00

£20 - £30

Victorias Secret PINK: Tote Bag - £22.02

HSamuel: Silver Heart Pendant Necklace - £22.49

Spectrum: Eye Brushes - £29.99

Lush: Lots of Love Gift Box - £27.95

So these are just a few ideas I think would make really cute gifts for your best friend or even your girl friend. I tried to include a variety of things but it really comes down to what the person loves, I mean if she doesnt have a bath then the likely hood of her using bath products is not so likely at all but no matter the budget, there are so many places and online stores selling anything from cards to spa days so being stuck for ideas really is no excuse.

I hope I have helped you out with some last minute shopping and I'll be back soon with another pink and red themed post, as in Valentines? Never mind!

What gifts have you brought? What are your plans for the weekend? Let me know!

A day in the life of: Victoria Secret Visit

What a week it's been; nevertheless I am back with something different. So you've heard of Victorias Secret right? If you haven't then you are most likely living under a rock. Well anyway, a Victorias Secret came within distance to where I live. I had never been happier so with this in mind, my boyfriend and I ventured out on a little shopping trip!

 

Surprisingly we turned up early at the station so we wandered down the lane to grab some beverages from Costa (Peach Iced Tea and White Hot Chocolate to be exact). Taking the train is always interesting when you have no idea when to get off and which platform to wait on, but we made it. No journey is successful without a couple of selfies...

 

I knew the first place I wanted to go was to Victorias Secret so we asked around at information points so we were the first couple of people there. A good walk later, we had made it...

 

Seriously though, how pretty is that god damn store. I was in love with absolutley everything, Louie (My boyfriend) admitted that he'd never seen such a girly store that had my name written all over it. I think that might be because I had been talking about it for weeks and probably driving him insane. The store had the perfect perfume scent due to the fact people would spray numerous amounts of body mist trying to find one they liked; I did this quite a few times. I was overwhelmed with the georgous garments and the beautiful clothing they had on display, I was literally in my element.

We spent an hour in the store; yes thats a long time but when the boyfriend doesn't complain about it, you know it's ok. I mean, it would be near impossible just to have a 'brief' look.

 

I am sure I will do a haul soon but for now, admire the pretty bags...my favourite colour of course! Since the visit, I have made it my aim in life to become a VSA (Victoria Secret Angel) a girl can only dream right?

 

A handful of shops and hearty food later, we were ready to call it a day. You know that feeling of accomplishment you get when you've found everything you wanted? that's exactly how I felt and more! Oh, it was also the first time I had to run for the train, yes, run with all these bags and my hair flying in all directions. I can definitley say that I loved the entire day and we can't wait for our next visit.

A different post today but let me know if you want me to do more like this. What posts do you want to see more of on my blog?

P.S I hope you've had an amazing weekend!

 

 

 

My First Time...

Some of you may have clicked on this awaiting some juicy sex gossip, but I am sorry to tell you that this is far from it. I have seen 'first time tag' videos on YouTube and if you're just a little bit nosey like me then you'll know that there is nothing wrong in knowing some bits and bobs about someone other than the information found on social media. In this case 'My First Time' simply means my first times of things, make sense? For example, someone could ask, 'What was your first pet?' not too interesting but you get the idea now...right?

What was your FIRST tweet?

This is not entirely interesting...

Who was the FIRST person you subscribed to on YouTube?

Zoella. I think I saw someone tweet about her so I searched for her and I ended up binge watching her videos all night...for hours!

What was your FIRST alcoholic drink?

It's not a full drink but I remember when I would ask my dad 'Can I try a sip of your beer?' and he would make one exception even though I would pretend to throw up and describe it as being disgusting. 

What was your FIRST Facebook profile picture?

This picture was taken on the day of my cousins wedding; oh and that's my older sister who looks nothing like that now may I add.

What was your FIRST job?

Legoland. You know those people who would hold that metal measuring kinda device next to you and often break little kids dreams when you say they're too short to ride? that was me (It wasn't my fault, I had to).

Where was your FIRST kiss?

In my boyfriends bedroom...so romantic huh?!

FIRST piercing?

Just your standard ear piercing. My neighbour did it and I felt so stylish. I must've been 10 or something!

FIRST car?

I don't drive but my dream first car would have to be a Mini, yes that's right, a girly Mini.

What was your FIRST achievement?

Probably receiving my first red handwriting pen in first school, not everyone would get one which is why I consider it to be such a proud moment that 6 year old Jade experienced.

What was your FIRST Instagram post?

FIRST thing you did this morning?

Stretch and tried my best to avoid having to get up.

Where was your FIRST sleepover?

My grandmas and aunties house; I would most likely end up crying and be picked up by my mum at around 11ish.

FIRST celebrity crush?

Zac Efron. Of course after watching High School Musical I was going to be obsessed.

FIRST love?

My current boyfriend who is my first boyfriend; old romantic me!

What was your FIRST broken bone?

Oh boy do I remember this. It was my toe; I kicked the pavement whilst aiming for a ball. Sounds stupid but my shoe ripped at the front and it was beyond painful.

FIRST grade teacher?

Erm, hmm! I really can't remember her name!

Who was your FIRST best friend?

Having best friends is dangerous unless you find the right one of course so this is hard to answer.

FIRST movie you remember seeing?

Chicken Little on a stormy day, I remember this so well.

FIRST detention?

NEVER! I was the 'good' girl.

FIRST concert you ever went to?

It would've been One Direction but silly me tor the ligaments in my knee and wasn't able to go.

FIRST foreign country you went to?

I haven't been abroad; shocking right? I am hoping it will be somewhere really cute and beautiful.

FIRST room mate?

Well, I shared a room with my older sister when I was like 5, does that count?

What was the FIRST sport you were involved in?

Probably something typical like Netball.

Seeing as you know a bit more about me, I'd love to get to know you more!

I hope you have had a successful start to the week and don't forget to leave any comments below.

Discussing Anxiety

Anxiety is hard to deal with. My inspiration for this post came from some articles I've read this morning and it really had me thinking; I could totally relate. If you have any type of anxiety or feel like you want to know about it then carry on reading.

Anxiety can affect people in different ways and some people deal with it differently to others. Some people can hide it but then others just can't control upon their body which often triggers panic attacks or breakdowns. When you're in a situation when Anxiety strikes, you feel uncomfortable, anxious and almost trapped by everything in the room. People seem to become more judgemental and your body feels so much pressure, you start asking yourself 'Where's the toilet?' 'How can I escape?' 'Am I ok?' all these questions are as loud as sirens in your head! It's not hard for people who love you to help you, they want to help you more than anything but to you, that's the last thing that's going to take this all away.

These are some of the things I could relate to 100% when reading this personal article:

"Sometimes, I shut down and don’t know what to say because socializing is hard. My mind goes blank because it’s all too much."

"I have an anxiety disorder, and it scares me away. It scares me away from so many things."

"It’s not a big deal, they say, and that’s what I try to remind myself, too — over and over again, every day. I know none of it should be a big deal, but my anxiety tells me a different story, and anxiety is very loud."

"Dishes make me anxious; every time I’ve lived with friends, dirty dishes have always been an issue. Twenty-somethings don’t like to do dishes, but my anxiety convinces me the dirty dishes will infect and kill me."

"Interviews usually make me anxious. If my anxiety is distracted on interview day, then I’m awesome, engaging and conversational. I know what to say because I’m not over-thinking it."

"When you date someone, he or she becomes part of you, and since my anxiety is a part of me, it becomes part of him or her, too. My constant need for attention is not easy. My panic attacks are not fun: I ask a lot of questions; I cry; I freak out."

"Existing in general makes me anxious. I ask a million questions because I’m convinced if I don’t, I might misunderstand something and do it incorrectly. Everything new I am asked or expected to do is an anxiety."

"With something simple, like making copies, I think, “What if I can’t figure out how to work the copier or it’s out of paper or it breaks or it explodes?” Bake a cake, do taxes, learn to drive, figure out what to do with my life — existing is one of the most anxiety-producing things around."

So many people can relate as much as I did when I first read this and if you're one of those people, you're not different, you are capable of doing what you love, what you strive to achieve. More people and employers should be made aware of this because I feel like it's so life changing that people almost feel like there is no way out.

But let's think positively here! This article taught me that others know exactly what it's like down to the last detail, it gives you that small vision of brighter light. Not everything in life you fear, well as the article explains we 'appreciate the little things' and appreciating something means relief, it means it's not all negativity and darkness so come one, we can do this! 'Anxious people will never hurt you' this is one I loved, this doesn't mean 'pushover' this means that we know the feeling of pain, we don't want anyone to have to suffer because of a certain action or word.

Let's finish with this:

"People with anxiety are intuitive and great at listening. They also love fiercely; they love jobs, friends, significant others and, most importantly, life. People with anxiety know how hard everything is and do not take any of it for granted."

I hope a lot of you can relate to this post and understand that talking about it creates awareness. Let me know if you would like to see more posts similar to this.

HAPPY FRIDAY!

http://thehealthdisorder.com/what-its-like-to-feel-anxiety-ridden-sometimes-with-no-control/

Blog Makeover

● Do you ever just want to make a fresh start? ●

Since I haven't had my blog for a very long time, I wanted to play around with different themes, layouts etc. When it came to making my blog a couple of months ago I didn't have very high expectations for what I was capable to make it look like. I knew I wouldn't be able to make the perfect looking blog that I had in mind but that didn't mean I wasn't able to experiment until I was happy. Anyone else feel the same? You know when you see someone else's blog and think 'damn, why can't mine be as popular as that?' or 'If only I could get mine to look as professional as that' I tell you now girl, I feel this a lot of the time so don't you worry.

I mean, I don't think I will ever be happy unless I actually sit down with a famous web designer and demand him to do this, this, this and this. But even then, I will probably still be picking out things that I don't like but nothings ever perfect in this day in age. (I am pretty sure that's the saying)

Another thing that I really want to do is communicate more with my readers, comment, email, tweet me, in any way that you can, let me know of your existence, we are all friends here after all. I think it is just one of those days today that I woke up and thought to myself  'how can I motivate myself to reach my goals' I don't think I am the only one but being a new year en all, I feel like I need to make an effort and do what I love a whole lot more, you get one chance so make it happen. There needs to be a lot more awareness about being motivational and productive so I think it's important to share with you what I do to help me think 'yes I can finally make things happen' there is no better time and day then the present to do what you love! (Hence the quote above, which I may also point out is one of my favourite quotes ever) Who's to tell you 'you can't do that' and 'that's not going to get you anywhere' as long as you believe in yourself then no one's opinion is relevant.

Anyway, it's Friday! If you haven't been in the best of moods so far today just remember it's Friday and you have a weekend ahead of you to make whatever you want of it.

Let me know what posts you want to see and I'll be sure to take them into consideration.

2016: New Year, New Beginnings & New Adventures

Christmas Panto, Quality Street & Victorias Secret

Dear Santa: My Ultimate Christmas Wishlist

Sleepy Sundays

Back To Blogging

Festive Playlist: Get your Rock On

'Deck the halls with boughs of Holly,

Fa la la la la la la la la'

I thought I would talk about the songs I would play on a regular basis once December 1st has arrived. I mean, no one can complain when the countdown begins. Although you have your classics from back in the day and your modern tunes from today, Christmas music is a genre that raises a smile as a few legs on the dance floor at the Christmas party. From Band Aid to Justin Bieber I am going to be counting down my top 10 festive songs that never go a miss during the festive period.

Deck the Halls with my Decor Ideas

I AM BACK!

The Christmas decorations are up and they are more sparkly then ever. I think every supermarket stocks Christmas decorations obviously and they can be really beautiful so you lazy bah humbugs out there, no excuses I'm afraid. 

My favourite themes for Christmas decor are:

- Red and Gold

- Metallics 

- Purple and Silver 

Or

- Pink and Silver

I am going to start with Winter Furnishings online at the moment that can really touch up a room in your house without going all out and raising the credit card bill!

http://direct.asda.com/george

Although some people prefer to keep it low key for Christmas and stick to a specific theme, others go for the more wild side of decorating; they bring out the festivity in a whole range of colourful lights, baubles and all sorts...not my cup of tea if I must add. 

Festivity on the Road

It's the 7th...I am well aware that I should have posted before now but there were some things I had to attend to, I am going to get myself back on track with my new layout as you may have already noticed.

I welcome you to...

FESTIVITY ON THE ROAD

Ok so a lot goes on during Christmas time, Costa introduces its annual festive menu and limited edition products hit the shop floors. To kick things off I am going to insert something delicious right below:

This is the Black Forest Hot Chocolate from the Costa Christmas Menu, It is absolutely delicious if I may say so myself. If I so happen to miss breakfast or if I am having a down day I tend to crave sweet snacks or something uplifting to get me through the days tasks ahead. Just like the title of this post, festivity is everywhere during the month of December and for me, the littlest of touches can really brighten your day and bring out your Christmas spirit. I highly recommend picking one of these up if you have a real sweet tooth. 

Christmas Gift Guide: Bargains All Round

MERRY DECEMBER LOVELIES!

Ok so it may be the 2nd but it just so happens that my blogging schedule doesn't include Tuesday's so here we are, a day into December, let's just say im original and make my own rules.

Before this becomes an essay let's jump into today's first blogmas post, drum roll please...

My Christmas Gift Guide 2015

So created by myself, of course, I put the following products/items together that I thought could make amaze-balls gifts to give to either him or her this year, whether it be your parents, your other half, your boss or possibly even the man who served you at your local supermarket the other day, these gifts would certainly raise a smile; as well as a cheeky glass of champagne during Christmas dinner.

Hello, it's me...

Hello, bonjour, holla, caio, hallo to you wherever you are in the world, I was never the A star student in languages. I am Jade, if you hadn't noticed before this sentence and I am a 17 year old, pug obsessed, make-up addicted, disney lover from the UK. To be quite honest, I can't narrow down my obsessions because there's just too many things to love these days. 

Before I ramble on, here are 10 facts about me to get the ball rolling:

- I am a huge fan girl of youtubers 

- I can't go shopping without buying make-up

- I get excited when someone mentions the 'C' Word...(Christmas)

- I have a slight addiction to online shopping

- You could say that one of my neighbours is the queen

- Down the road is a land of lego, crazy I know!

- I play sims, unhealthy amounts; im working on that issue

- I love cameras

- My dream job is to be a princess at Disney Land

&

- I AM A BLOGGER!

Oh, I best insert a picture of my wonderful face right here:

I am sure when we get to know one another a bit more, the make-up will be removed and the pyjamas will be on, I assure you now!

Enough about me though, im not one to steal the spotlight..that's true most of the time anyway. I feel like this is the perfect time to tell you about some exciting things that I will be writing and capturing across the next couple of weeks. As you are aware (if you're not then stop right here, look at the calender, find the 25th and think again) CHRISTMAS IS NEAR! *Dances on the spot like a weirdo* I mean how can you not be excited about this holiday, it's impossible which is why I am going to trap all my excitement into a little jar and throw it onto my blog because if you're not excited now, after reading my posts, you will be! That's my goal anyway.

As far as today's post goes, I was supposed to upload at 5pm which is going to be the time all my posts will be up but I was too busy pre-planning what I am going to do to make this Christmas the best one yet. I am referring to this period on my blog as 'blogmas' because obviously it's most appropriate. I aim to upload every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday for the next coming week and then I'll plan the new years schedule in due course. Wow, that's some fancy lingo for me!

So yeah to summarise my introduction to my new blog, I aim to post at 5pm, Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday but that is subject to changes so just letting ya'll know that. Oh and not forgetting BLOGMAS!

I hope you're all having a wonderful Monday evening, had a good day at school, work or just in general had a good Monday, because for this week, Monday is finally over!

LoveJade

xoxo