My Fitness Regime and Tips

Hi Guys, I have just started getting back in to my usual fitness regime, I do love fitness and working out (especially yoga) it helps me feel confident and motivated in my day to day life. I think that there is 101million ways to improve and build your fitness level so I though I would share routine with you all today. xx

For me the best two things I can do to get me motivated to get my bum gear and get doing a workout is a great outfit and some "thinspiration". For my work out gear I love to wear something with a pattern on as it helps to distract the eyes away from any unwanted areas, I always colour co-ordinate whether that's all black a bright funky pattern or just some block colours. I the reason I think it helps me stay focus is because I'm proud of what I'm wearing so if I accidentally catch a glimpse of myself in the gym mirror atlas my outfit looks good. 

 I also like to inspire myself with some "thinspiration" pictures and quotes some of my favourite icons are Michelle Keegan, Candice Swanopeol, Megan Fox and Ariana Grande I love to flick through there pictures on Instagram and it helps to give me something I can aspire to. I also like the keep motivation and inspirational quotes on my pinterest as there is nothing better than reading something that makes you smile and want to jump right into the subject matter.

I am a keen Yoga enthusiast I always have at least one personal yoga class (1.5hrs) and usually do 1 group class (45mins) a week as well as doing my own sessions at home in front of the tv. Yoga is one of my favourite forms of exercise as it is specifically designed to be a forfeiting workout using techniques of stretching, holding and twisting to elongate and improve muscle strength and when taught well is mixed in breathing exercising and counter poses that release tension and prevent the body from damage. The best thing about it is that it is so stress relieving and relaxing plus there is no aching the day after. I suffer with back, sleeping and breathing problems this is form of exercise that helps me with all of  those issues whilst be super fun and challenge it. If you've tried it before and it didn't really feel like it was doing anything try doing a vinyāsa based class as this is constant flowing moving that create heat making your body work harder.

I also like to go to the gym twice to three times a week (3-4 times if I don't do Yoga that week) and I like to do one cardio fat burning session, one strength and muscle building session and one group class.

In my cardio sessions I like to do a lot of interval training as I find that it is an intense for of exercise that really works I use mostly machines for this day including the treadmill (10-12 mins of 1min on 20secs off) the cross trainer (10mins increasing resistance) the rowing machine and I mix these with circuit interval training which include jumping jack squats, burpies, mountain climbers, step jumps. I like to learn new moves ever couple of weeks designing to increase the heart rate. 

For my strength training session I do a mixture of weights and mat based work. I like to do 10-14reps 3times of things like push ups, swats, lunges, dumbbells, kettle bells, planks, bicycle crunches, Russian twists and crunches. I also try to keep these moves updated every couple of weeks as well. 

Finally for my classes I just do what ever I feel wasn't worked as hard that week e.g an abs class or anything that sounds fun and high energy, I try to always pick a class over 45mins long. Some of my favourite classes are combat/boxing, legs bum and tums, intense core/abs and fat burn.

 I wish yo all good luck for your fitness journeys I'll keep you up to dat with how mines going just remember guy tailor your week routine to include things that you enjoy fitness it supposed to be difficult but it also meant to fun too. xx

Review - Nars Laser Cut Eye, Cheek & Lip Palette

Hi Guys, Hope you are all well and excited for whats to come this year. Today I really wanted to do a post about my new fitness regime but due to my hours at work I ran out of time and I really wanted to spend some proper time taking photos and filming some Vlogs, maybe? So instead I decided to do a review of the Nars Laser Cut Eye, Cheek & Lip Palette that I was gifted for Christmas. xx

First of all I think we all need to take a step back and appreciate just how beautiful the packaging is for this Laced with Edge collection I really think they upped the game and created a elegant, modern, seasonal and practical design for the holiday collection. I love that the design is a mixture between broken glass and a snowflake. The palette itself you can feel the quality of the material it doesn't feel flips or cheap at all considering the whole palette was price at £35.

The kit includes

• 3 Limited Edition Hardwired Eyeshadow shades.
• Day Dream Blush.
• Laguna Bronzing Powder.
• Dolce Vita Lip Gloss.

I wanted to talk about the Dolce Vita Lip Gloss first because I have absolutely fell in love with this gloss its texture is rich and cream with a slight tackiness, which personally for me means that the product is going to last longer and not slide all over. The formulation is lovely and moisturising its more like the constancy of a liquid lipstick than a gloss which means that after the glossy finish has worn slightly (by eating or talking) the colour still stays bold and adheres and stains the lips ever so slightly and I would say it did not have scent particularly. The colour is absolutely amazing right up my alley, its a rose cool toned nude perfect for everyday wear. The doe-foot applicator is spongy apply a thin layer of product evenly over the lips. I will definitely be purchasing the full size of this product again and if you are looking for a new everyday lip colour this one is a must have. 

My second runner up would be the cult favourite from Nars the Laguna Bronzer it is exactly how everyone explains its the perfect warm toned brown for contouring and warming up the face it has a slight hint of golden shimmer giving your face a subtle glow. Its formula again is smooth, creamy and pigmented which is exactly what you want from a bronzer. It applies beautifully onto the skin and is easily bendable for that flawless finish. I can't say enough good things about this one highly recommend this.

Next up we have the specially formulated shades of Hardwired Eyeshadow's. The texture of these eyeshadows are lovely smooth, silky and well compressed. The colour payoff for the lightest shade is great it has fast become one of my go too shades for a matte highlight, the shimmery gold is on the subtle side unless used with a spritz of fix + on your brush again I think it is a very beautiful colour perfect amount of sparkle for everyday however the darkest shade in the palette lacks a little punch its pigmentation is not a full as the other products this still gives a lovely depth to the eyes and a soft shade of green for a neutral look. After this being the first time I had used Nars eyeshadows I would recommend them but I would swatch a few different ones as it seems they have a mixture of pigmentation.

Finally we come to the last product in the palette the Day Dream Blush, I usually don't go for pink shades of blusher but this one caught my eye and looked fresh and natural so I thought I would give it a go. The texture as with the other products its fantastic although I do find that unless this is applied with a dense brush you don't get much colour payoff I personally don't mind this as I would rather have to layer a product up than have one that is overly pigmented. It does give the cheeks a look of a natural flush and is perfect for the winter as it looks like you have just come in from a brisk walk. I am unsure If I would purchase this product again as I do feel like you could get a very similar product in the drug store for a fraction of the price.

Overall I adore this palette I really wanted something that I could throw in my bag on daily basis that halal the products I need together. This palette is the perfect size for travelling and its structured enough that it would withstand being pushed around in my handbag. I hope that Nars continue to make palettes like these as I would love one for a dark smokey eye and a red lip, plus I'm a sucker for miniature products. :)

Best Of 2014 - Skincare

Hi Guys, This is the last post in my Best Of 2014 series (sad) so I though it would be best to end with the final thing you do before bed your skincare routine. I feel that 2014 was there year that my skin fell in love with the products I tried out and that my bare face is look much better than with any other products. Some of these items are brand new and were launched in 2014 others were just new to me or an existing favourite that needed a shout out. I hope you all liked the series and if there is any upcoming subjects you would like me to post about please just leave me a comment. xx

Just remember finding a good skin routine can take time and many products have to get used to your skin before starting to show results, don't be afraid to try out something by a new brand and yet with the store advisers as most store offer returns if you have an allergic reaction to the product. These are all of the products that make up my new and improved skin care regime all of these products are made from natural ingredients (hand cream may contain other ingredients) are suitable for those with sense skin. I have a lot of allergies and very awkward sensitive skin therefore I always opt for the organic, hypoallergenic, light options for skincare. 

The product I start of with is the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water this has fast become my favourite product for cleansing and removing makeup it is so gentle and cooling on the skin yet it removes waterproof mascara and lip stains so easily. My favourite cotton pads to use with this are the Primark Cosmetic Pads in the regular size, the reason these are so good is because they are soft and have a light texture but most importantly they are sewn around the edges and this helps to absorb the product and keep the cotton pad together plus there a bargain at 99p (pack of 2).

Then I move onto my eye cream it was a tough decision to decide which one would make it into my favourites list I went with the Khiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado as its is perfect for the winter months, it is lovely rich, creamy texture and applies quick thickly to allow for the product to be absorbed over night to give complete hydration to your eye area. The second choice which I still go back to it the matching item to one of my other favourites the Body Shop Vitamin E Eye Cream, it is a much lighter consistency with a slightly oilier texture that absorbs quickly into the skin.

My best moisturising products that I cannot live without are the Simple Kind To Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser and the Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum in Oil. I have been using the Simple Moisturiser for years it is a firm favourite as it is light enough to put underneath makeup and to be mixed with other products, I highly recommend this product to anyone with sensitive skin. The Body Shop Serum on the other hand is a brand new product that was launched early 2014 it is dupe for the Estee Lauder Overnight Serum and for me its so much better due to being a 3rd of the price. I love this product it gives your hydration throughout the whole night and really helps to absorb nutrients and even out skin tone. I feel that this product gives an almost instant change to the skin It looks much clearer and refreshed after using overnight, it is also perfect for applying during a long flight to prevent skin from tightening or drying out.

When my face is looking a tired or I can feel a breakout coming I like to use face scrubs to help prevent my skin from unsightly breakouts and redness. For a refreshing uplift and for a more everyday formula I like to use the St. Ives Apricot Scrub as it does still have little bobbles in to exfoliate the skin but they are made of 100% natural products which soften as water is mixed. It smells great for winter. When I have a more severe breakout or I feel my face needs a good clean I go to my holy grail product the Body Shop Tea Tree Squeaky Clean Scrub the formula for this on is slightly harsher and the exfoliating beads are a lot firmer giving a more thorough clean, mixed with the tea tree oil this really helps to clean away any bacteria from the blemishes whilst soothing and getting rid. 

My Final Products are for that touch of relaxation and deep cleaning I only use a face maximum of once as month as I feel with my skin being so sensitive it upsets the chemical balance making my skin feel less healthy but if I stick to using them little and monthly they enhance my skins health and leave my face glowing. I like to use the Face Masks by H&M my all time favourite was the rhubarb formula although they have now replaced that one for some new fresh ingredients my two best from the newer range are the Cucumber and Aloe Vera with is designed to get rid of the every day grime build up whilst soothing and repairing damage, and the Honey and Jasmine which is a gentler clearer formulated to release toxins from the body/face. If you like face masks or just want to give one a try I would defiantly recommend these ones and at 99p what is there too loose. 

Best Of 2014 - Fashion

Hi Guys, Following on with my recent Best Of 2014 series I though I would put together a few of my favourite clothing, accessories and outfits of 2014. For me last year was all about summer fashion there were a lot of great cropped and fancy strapped items and not to mention the co-ord and 90's take over. This was there year for fun clothing so here's a selection of my favourites. xx

Last year was the year from bringing back some old school style into your wardrobe whether its a cute matching outfits an over sized coat or elegant hat there was a touch of retro in the trends. One of my personal favourite styles from 2014 was the co-ord I love that they come in so many fun prints and different styles and can be worn of any season or occasion. The style of co-ord I find suits me best is a structured angled crop top and a pencil skirt with a fun print ( I have the palm tree in one in picture 2) I find that the gap between the skirt and crop brings in your waist giving an hourglass shape. Most co-ords are very flattering to all figures as they are designed to draw attention to the smallest part of your body. If you haven't purchased one yet I would definitely get looking for a fun an bright printed version for the summer months.

Another be trend last year was the over sized boyfriends coat this style reminds me of Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman and I think that there are many slightly different cuts and lengths that there is one to suit Everybody. These coats look best when left open so they really give you the opportunity to show of your stylish outfit underneath whilst staying cosy and warm. My only advice for purchasing one of these coats is take notice to the material if the texture is bobble and fluffy then it most likely is not going to be able to withstand the weather and end up looking shaggy quickly. 

The Blanket Wrap was also a big trend throughout the fall of 2014. I have owned blanket wraps for multiple years now and I think there great for throwing over any outfit to give it a touch of chic. They are so warm for such a simple piece of clothing and they come in a variety of shapes and lengths to suit all types of looks. I love these they are one of my all time favourite item of clothing and I several of them in my collection already and will continue to purchase all of the designs.

The retro 90's style shoes were all the range right from the start of the year although these types of shoes don't suit me at all due to my style not matching and because I have scrawny ankles and they look to big on me, however they can look amazing on so many people. They make wearing heels much more comfortable and look great matched with a cute co-ord and the boyfriend coat. I adapted this style into a chunkier block like heel on knee high boots and found this suited myself much better.

Finally the last two items I thought needed a shout from the year are definitely some of my most worn easily styled stylish pieces. The first being the felt floppy hat these are a great accessory especially for the English weather they can be used to add a pop of colour and a sense of style to you look. The finally piece is the statement necklace I find that the statement necklace designs have been slowly taking over the jewellery work at first I found a lot of the designs to overpriced and a little tacky but this year they stepped up the design process and created some beautiful, colourful and luxurious items. I can not recommend purchasing yourself a selection of different colours and sizes so that you always have something to glam up your everyday clothing with a touch of sparkle.

I hope you guys enjoy this series and it gives you a little insight into my style. 

Best Of 2014 - Hair

Hi Guys, I hope you are all having a fantastic week I know I'm just happy to have a day off today. Today I am following on with my Best Of 2014 series and giving a shout to my favourite Hair products and tools of the year. I love it when something new comes out the hair world especially if its designed to make it safer, easier and quicker. I always try and take extremely good care of my hair I just can't imagine not having the length I have achieved therefore I'm constantly on hunt for something to increase the strength and vitality of my locks. I hope you enjoy this post and that the ongoing series is informative and encourages you to try out some of these amazing items. xx 

1. Aussie - Aussie has been a household name for me for several years I think that pretty much all of the products are fantastic especially for someone that lives an active lifestyle as the give a really good clean but they are quite rich therefore work better for oilier hair types. One of the first products I used in the range was the 3 minute miracle all the formula's are great I find the one that works best for me is the Luscious Long deep treatment as its is special formulated to not weight your roots down allowing long hair to be swished.
2. Babyliss - I have been growing y hair for several year now and I find that because all of the dye and damage has finally gone that my hair is harder to style up until now I would just straighten my hair (my natural is very curly) for special occasions now I have the option for any type of curl. I find these hot rollers are easy to use come with a good selection of sizes although I personally would choose not to have the tiny ones and it allows you to hair more time to spend on other things whilst they set. I would recommend this brand for anyone that is looking for easy flawless waves and curls.
3. Ojon - I discovered rare blend a few years ago and forgot about it until I came across an old bottle when moving earlier this year. This oil is a blend of several different types of oils and natural ingredients from around the world with different properties for smoothing, hydrating adding shine and much more, the best thing about this beauty is it smells amazing and you only need the a little drop. I always reach for this or my next must have when my hair it wet to give shine and smoothness.
4. Moroccanoil - Of course the infamous Moroccanoil made my list as with the previous product from Ojon this oil is fantastic for adding moisture, silkiness and shine to the hair. The difference between the two for myself is that I find the Ojon product works best on wet hair and it absorbs slightly slower and has a drier texture whereas the Morroccanoil is great for styling and taming any fly aways after the hair is dry. I love both of these product and think one or the other is essential for hair growth and nourishment. 
5. Tresemmé - I usually don't use Tresemmé products as with my hair being naturally curly I find that they are weighty and make my hair look flat and greasy however that is a completely different story for the 7 Day Smooth system is one of my most used hair product of the year. I would never have tried this product out if I hadn't have been looking into a brazilian blow dry and a sample of the 7 day smooth came in the mail. This has made styling my unruly locks such a dream and really makes such a difference to the quality of the style once finished, it really does allow you to have salon perfect hair at home. If you have not tried this you need to honestly it was my best purchase of 2014.
6. Tangle Teezer - As always my Tangle Teezer has made it into my favourites list again. These brushes are revolutionary in the world of hair brushes. I find brushing my hair is a much more enjoyable when I'm using a Tangle Teezer it helps reduce the amount of breakage and allows for tough knots to be managed quick and painless. I just hope that this year they find away to put this design into a round brush as this would be amazing for a blow dry.
7. Scrunchies - Once I started my hair growth journey I reintroduced the scrunchie back into my everyday use. I believe that not using heat of your hair giving it the right nourishment and protecting it in safe hair style  (e.g a bun with a scrunchie) is the fastest way to grow your hair. I know it does sound like a pain but even just switching from a regular hair tie to a soft velvet scrunchie will make all the difference. I can't use any other hair again after seeing that for myself.
8. Lee Stafford - Along side of the tips in the scrunchies option I used the Lee Stafford Hair Growth Shampoo, Conditioner, Treatment and spray to help kick start my hair growing. They are the best hair growth products on the market in my opinion (i have tried a lot) as they really do work, they are designed not only to grow your hair at a healthier and faster rate but to help it exceed the growth stop point growing on its own will have plus its scent is beautiful. My hair went from being a shoulder length bob to below the centre of my back in approx 2-2 1/2 years which would normally have taken my hair at least twice that. My longer hair gives me confidence and inspiration and I am so glad I stumbled upon this range.
9. Ghd - Ghd have stepped up there game this year with not one but several great new products on the market one of them being the Aura Professional Hairdryer it has a 42% more concentrated flow of air giving you complete control over the angle and direction of which you dry plus it has been made super light and much quieter than any other professional drier I have used. This tool is fantastic for anyone that has frizzy and thick hair as instead of all you hair flying about when you drying the air is directed just on the piece on your brush. I love this product and can't wait to get my hands on one of my very own this year as I was completely sold with just having used to style my hair.

Best Of 2014 - Beauty

Hi Guys, Today I decided I wanted to do a series of posts detailing a selection of some of my best, most used and favourite items from 2014. These items might not necessarily be new to the market but they have all been revolutionary for my year. Today I thought I would kick start the series with Beauty. I hope you find these post interesting and helpful and I would love to know your best bits from 2014 too. xx

1. Charlotte Tilbury - This year was the greatly anticipated launch of Charlotte Tilbury's range and it did not disappoint. Not only is the packaging gorgeous with a stylish, luxurious rose finish but the product absolutely delivers on quality. I would say the only thing I didn't like was the fact I had to buy the branded sharpener to use with her Colour Chameleon although at £5 a pop it doesn't quite break the bank. My favourite item I have added to my collection so far are K.I.S.S.I.N.G miniature lipsticks they are super adorable and great for adding to key rings for easy transport. The colour combination you get is great a classic red, peachy nude and a Kylie Jenner mauve.
2. Laura Mercier - Laura Mercier products have popped onto my radar a little more last year especially there foundation my personal favourite is the mineral powder it gives a lovely natural finish and perfect for building coverage. The best part about this foundation is that it enhances your skin with the minerals and leaves your face feeling soft and silky. 
3. Mac - For me mac has never been anything special I find the product a little hit and miss you can have a great concealer next to a strange texture and sticky lip gloss. I like a brand that has consistent quality throughout its products however i have re fallen in love with my mac fix + again I reached for it in the summer months for a refreshing burst of the skin. I think mac fix + is great for setting your makeup, spraying on a brush for flawless finish and mixing with eye shadows to great a liquid gel like formula.
4. Real Techniques - Now that the girls have joined forces again I have been much more drawn the brushes, especially the sets. I bought the core collection when travelling in summer and I love it the pointed foundation brush is great for applying concealer, the buffing brush is fantastic for with my Laura Mercier mineral and powder and the contour brush is great for well, contouring. The quality of these brushes for the price is great and the sets are perfect for anyone just starting out in makeup.
5. Zoeva - This is the first year I have owned a a Zoeva brush and I don't know why I waited so long to purchase. The design of these brushes it so pretty especially with the rose gold finish and the price and quality is phenomenal, I don't think I'll be getting another mac 217 when these are on the market.
6. LimeCrime - My velvetines in red velvet has been my go to lipstick when statement lip is required there may be a cult following for these and I am definitely on the band waggon. I love the texture the packaging, the scent, the colour and of course the velvet finish. If you have never tried one before I highly recommend them as I will be repurchasing every time I'm close to empty.
7. Nars- Before this year I had never owned a bars product, I had used the concealers and blushes before but have never tried out anything else thats why I was so happy to receive all in one palette from my sister at christmas. I know I have only be using the palette for a short time out of the year but it has already made it way to one of my favourites. I think the lip gloss colour (dolce vita) its just stunning and the formula is just as good and thats coming from a beauty lover that usual hates lip gloss. 
8. Benefit - I usually love benefit products there packaging its super fun and bright and they always seem to bring out new ideas for products that take the world by storm, one of those items being the Gimme Brow I love it I use it every single day even if I'm just going to the gym it sets your brows perfectly for the day adding just enough colour to wear by it self (I team with my next best by L'oreal) I love the size of the bottle and wand and I think its a must have for any beauty lover.
9. L'Oreal - Finally something from the drugstore, My must have beauty fave for L'oreal is the brow artist (I get mine in blonde) It is a wax based eyebrow pencil, although the colour selection is limited I find they have a good range for those of us with a darker brow, as mentioned before I have dark chocolate hair and use the blonde formula. The pencil is great for mimicking those little brow hairs with small fast strokes and does not smudge or fade throughout the day I use the as a base and follow up with the gimme brow for that extra natural texture. 
10. Shiseido - At the start of December I purchased the Shiseido concealer as I was amazed at how little product is needed for a full coverage highlighted look. The consistency is thinker that a mac pro longwear but is much creamer, all you have to do is gently warm the product between your fingers before application. The colour selection is vast and the packaging is basic but practical. This has no prompted me to throw out my mac pro longwear all together.

Healthy Saturday Night Mocktails

Hi Guys, today I wanted to share with you some healthy alternatives to a standard cocktail on a night out. I personally prefer to keep to healthy even on night out I love fruit flavours and don't want to miss out on the fun colours and decorations you get with a cocktail. Not only are all of these recipes delicious they are also a fraction of the cost. I hope you guys enjoy this post and I would to see if any of you guys recreate these for your drink tonight. Xx

This cocktail is based on the Jammy Dodger cocktail which is usual made with usually made with Amaretto and a berry liqueur.

Ingredients - 

4/5 Raspberries 

4/5 Blackberries

1 Tsp Vanilla Syrup

Cranberry Juice

Juice of Half a Lemon

Scoop of Ice

1/2 Pinch of Salt

Mini Jammy Dodgers (opt)

Cocktail Shaker

Method - 

Same as how you would make a regular cocktail add the fruit, vanilla and cranberry juice into a large metal cocktail shaker scoop the crushed ice onto until tumbler side is filled then squeeze the lemon juice over and sprinkle the salt over top (this will help to melt the ice slightly) close the lid and shake. After shaking for around 30seconds decant into your favourite glass and some mini jammy dodgers onto and finish with a straw. I always drink these through the straw as the pieces of fruit will not be broken up small enough to fit through leaving your drink smooth and ice cold.

Workout Outfits

Hi Guys, As it is the start of a new year and I know that a lot of people will be hoping to get fit and healthy for the years to come. Why not kick start your year with some great workout inspiration, your clothes. For me its a big motivation to have stylish work out clothes not only because they look and feel nice but because they can help boost your confidence and help with setting goals. I like to start by purchase a staple black outfit and some fresh new prints ready for the season. I try to order the co-ordinating items even if they are a bit flashing as I hope one day to have a figure I would be proud to show off. 

I have put together some different workout outfit ideas that will hopefully inspire you to go that extra mile in your training. xx

Look 1 - For the first look I went with super fun and relaxed that could be worn at a yoga practise, gym class or just lounging with some friends. My favourite part of this outfit is the exposed back top and looks beautiful with a brightly coloured sports bra underneath and it also helps to keep you cool whilst training. The bottoms are flexible with a splash of colour to bring the outfit together. I finished the look with the Withings pulse sports watch I feel this bit of technology is great for giving you encouragement and realistic goals to meet I would team it with all my work out gear with its interchangeable straps.

Look 2 - This second look is put together with my stale pieces of a well fitted well price black pair of bottoms and matching crop top. As I don't like to show of my stomach just yet (lets get the abs first) I throw on a simple muscle back tank top to cover up. The pants and top are from us pro which means they are very affordable but the quality is fantastic they bottoms even have a secret zip pocket in the back perfect for keeping your keys in. I went with simple accessories this rucksack is chic and rooming meaning you can fit all your workout gear and any items you need for the day and even your extra light Nike Rosche sneakers for a final touch.

Look 3 - My final look has these fun snake printed trousers from Nikes luxury line sold a net a porter the colour is amazing and perfect for a late night run in the dark, yet extremely flattering when teamed with block colours. I went for my favourite option a black hoodie, this one is made of a soft lightweight material designed to keep you warm without weighing you down. I added a matching bag big enough to fit a gym towel and a change of clothes in for going to the gym and finished with a sleek pair of rose gold headphones. Nothing helps me run like having a soundtrack to my life in my ears.

About Me

Hi Guys, Today I wanted to properly introduce myself as I realised you don't really know much about me. Xx

Hi my name is Nadine I am 21 year aspiring Manchester blogger. I love anything beauty, fashion, baking or DIY. From a very young age my dad owned his own building company and worked for himself I would join him on jobs or help him out at home and was always so inspired by his dedication as even though he was working all day he would still come home with a smile on his face and start the same work for us at home. He taught me my basic and advance DIY skills and always encouraged my creative manor that's where my love for DIY and interior design comes from. My mom on the other hand always encouraged me in my fashion and baking. We would always be out shopping and looking for new outfits to put together and she's the best at picking out a great handbag. When me and my sister were young my mom would help us to bake are favourite treats brownies and cupcakes I think that's where I first developed my love from baking. 

As a teenager I studied many different subjects including fine art and textile and hair and makeup I later followed by studding at a high level in all three sciences and maths. I know it's a bit of a mixture right? But at the time I was toying with the idea of becoming a dentist and it's still a backup plan for me. Studying hair and make up was awesome it was so fun and creative I couldn't wait to try out my techniques throughout my studies although I'm not great at doing my own hair I think I'm pretty good with somebody else. I do find that even in my current hobbies my more academic skills can be out into place whether that's measuring and calculating for an interior project or creating a chemical reaction with baking or DIY homemade goods. 

Some of my favourite things do are anything winter sports related as I just love being out in the cold weather.  I do everything for ice-skating to snowboarding and would try most winter sports once except luging that looks too intense for me. I keep myself fit with regular one to one yoga classes and gym sessions, yoga is my favourite way to stay healthy and fit as it's relaxing and lengthening and doesn't cause strain on the body. As I suffer from back pain and insomnia the type of yoga I practise really helps with both of these issues that's why it's such a perfect practise. 

I hope this post helps you get to know me a little better and I will be including much more of my hobbies in post to come. 

Batiste vs Colab

Hi guys, I hope you all had a great weekend. Today I wanted to share my thoughts and experiences about dry shampoo. I like to take very good care of my hair and keep it hydrated and natural as much as possible, lately I have been trying to decrease the amount of times I wash my hair and dry shampoo has been the my best friend whilst going through the change of times. I wanted to do both a review and comparison to between the cult favourite Batiste and YouTube best Colab. I hope you find this interesting and informative. xx  

Batiste
Batiste has been a firm favourite of mine since I was in my teens I think the original formula was the first ever dry shampoo I ever used. I believe that batiste is very fast acting and can transform flat, dull greasy looking hair in minutes, It has many different colours and scents to choose from and even extra volume enhancing and conditioning treatments in the range. Personally I like the regular formula in the blush scent best as I like the white coloured spray,  I think this helps with concentrating the product in the right places and not missing out sections plus it absorbs into the hair within minutes and with a little ruffle is no longer seen. The packaging is simple, recognisable and fun and with a choice of sizes available is very easy to travel with. I find that the nozzle is easy to use and does not clog up.
Price - 200ml From £3.99. http://www.superdrug.com/search?text=batiste#.VKnkDIcrfzI

Colab
When Colab was first released it sounded like a new and exciting take on the dry shampoo market with claims to be invisible and transforming in moments plus being produced by YouTube guru Ruth Crilly someone who boast a lot of well know and reputable reviews a brilliant product was expected. The packaging for this product is fantastic it look very chic and sophisticated the designs of the different scents available are graphic and pretty as well as the bottle having a nice texture to it. I do think this product gives noticeable results however not in a couple of minutes closer to 30minutes. The product also do not come out clear as expected which is a little inconvenient being that it takes quite a bit to absorb. The size range again is great for travelling and the scents are lovely. 
Price - 200ml £3.49. http://www.superdrug.com/microsite/co-lab#.VKnq0YcrfzI

In conclusion I personally will still be purchasing the Batiste in the future as I find it it quick and simple plus it gives amazing results, Its also a big bonus for me that it can be used to add texture, volume and be used to to keep up styles in place as well. Although Colab is better value for money I find that it takes three times longer to absorb into the hair and also even though its not a problem to have a white spray it was a little disappointing that it was not clear as advertised. It does not  have the volumising aspect that most other dry shampoos have either.

New Year Life Style Changes

Hi Guys, I hope you all had a great New Years day. I had a lovely relaxed day visiting my partners family, we had a delicious roast dinner, a game of bingo and enjoyed some homemade baked goodies. As per every year I wanted to put together a few New Year lifestyle changes to meet. I prefer to think of them as lifestyle changes rather than Resolutions as I always pick things that are achievable and that I would like to carry on with after the year is up. If you would like to know more details of my choices please continue reading or If any you have any lifestyle changes in mind I would to know what you'll be looking achieve maybe I can find some inspiration in what you will be doing. Good Luck. xx

1. Get Driving - I started driving lessons multiple years ago when I was 17 as I was about to take my test before I took on a full time opportunity at work. At the time I worked so close to my house there was no need for a car. Now that my circumstances have changed my sister has moved away and my new property may mean a further journey to work I feel like now is the best time to get my driving licence. 
2. Get A House - Early 2014 I moved in with my wonderful boyfriend we moved into a nice city centre apartment we are now finding that we have outgrown the size of our apartment and are looking for something bigger that we can change and decorate together.  
3. Do More Yoga - Last summer I started one to one yoga training to help with some medical issues I quickly fell in love with doing it I replaced my gym sessions with yoga. It makes me feel so much leaner and relaxed I want to make sure it stays a regular part of my life.
4. Start Iceskating - As a child I always was fascinated by snow and cold weather sports I started ice skating every week, skiing and later snowboarding. Ice skating is the only I never had professional training in. I feel I could really enhance my skills further by taking up even 2 classes a month.  
5. See My Family More - For me my family is everything I don't know what I would do without them. This year I want to make sure I keep seeing all of my loved ones as much as I do and make sure I keep my great relationship I have with my sister now she has moved to university.
6. Get Fitter - This is typical one for most peoples resolutions. For me this isn't something I will be starting but something I am continuing and improving. My eating habits are something that I need to work on so that all my hard work exercising is matched with a nutrient rich diet.
7. Snow Holiday - I have been wanting to go on another winter adventure for a few years now, this year myself and my other half have decided we have saved enough money for a trip away. I can't wait to get back into the snow and get active I always feel really refreshed after I have had an athletic vacation.
8. Build a Business - This year is the year I really need to dedicate myself to creating a career for myself whether that's beauty, baking, interiors or blogging I just know that my career needs to start heading in an upward direction. If I could choose anything I would absolutely love to start making YouTube videos and continue blogging as that is what makes me happy because it involves all of my hobbies.
9. Keep Baking - As long as I can remember my Nanna and parents would teach me and my sister to bake cakes and pies that it is something that It s now something that is a big part of my life. Most of my Christmas gift this year were baking related which means I have the proper tools for my creations. I will continue to practise baking and sharing recipes.
10. Stop Being Stressed - This is my big one, If I can implement all the choices above I know this will help my stress  levels. At the moment I stress and worry a lot and with me already suffering from insomnia (for many years) its just amplifying everything. I want to change this around be more relaxed, fun and happy, I know I can do it.

*Disclaimer* These are all my own personal choices that I think will improve my day to day life.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year everyone I hope that this year is lucky and full adventure. I hope that you all had a wonderful New Years Eve. As I was in work all day yesterday I spent my evening baking goodies to take to a family get together today. I made sorm Viennese whirls, biscuits and some bread a recipe/baking tips will be up in a post soon. Today I will be spending my day at my partners grandmas with the rest of there family were having a nice meal and having a good chin wag. We will then be heading home as my parents are coming round to help celebrate the first day of the year.