WHAT I'VE LEARNT FROM CANCER

On the 17th February my family received the news that Mum had another primary Cancer. We had been expecting something to arise around Christmas as something always does, but Christmas had passed and we thought we'd made it. I suppose we're in a better position than many due to this being the fifth time of hearing news like this however it was more serious than we first thought and this time it was terminal. I thought I would write this post for those of you who may be in a similar position for the first time and don't know what to expect or for others who may feel alone or confused. If I can help others in similar situations or those who want to learn more I will in any way possible.

1) It's okay to be scared

It's probably one of the scariest things you could ever experience but you can't let that stop you from carrying on. One of the best things I've ever heard my Dad say is 'Instead of dying, you've got to start living'. I now live by this and it really helps to make a positive out of every scenario.

2) The word Cancer doesn't always mean death

Take my mum for example, she's beat it 4 times! It's the luck of the draw. Doctors and Nurses work their hardest to ensure you'll get the best and most personalised treatment. I only learnt recently that chemo has a shelf life of only a couple of hours and each bag is individual to that person, made from blood tests the day before.

3) Every case is different

Every time someone is diagnosed whether it's the same diagnosis or not, it's different. The speed of its growth, side effects, treatment etc. There's no way one can compare to another so just because someone else lost their fight from the same diagnosis, doesn't mean another will.

4) You realise the real priorities in life

I've come to learn that people have very different priorities. I would like to be at every appointment but my parents priority is to make sure me and my sister go to school. But family must always come first and in some cases it takes something like this to realise that. When it all comes to it school isn't important, grades aren't important, nothing is. It's the people you love who are important. Don't take anything for granted.

5) Friends matter

Friends always matter but times like this they really do. I've seen how much support my mum has received and I really believe this helps her stay positive. Sometimes it's easier to talk to people that aren't in the family but just because they're not as forward doesn't mean they're any less of a friend. Some people aren't good when talking about emotions or they may not understand.

I hope this helps and if there are any questions comment them below or send an email to amyhall1998@hotmail.com


'Instead of dying, you've got to start living'.
Amy x

JANUARY FAVOURITES

I decided to do a favourites post to share what I've been loving over the past month and a bit. I've not had time to finish this post before now but it's better late than never. During the month of January I tried out new products and items I got for Christmas as well as using items I've loved for a while

Mac's mineralize skinfinish (Lightscapade)
I'd been wanting to try this for ages but just hadn't gone out and got it. I love how subtle this highlighter is as it sits perfectly on the skin. I chose the lightest one (as I'm very pale) so I'm guessing the other shades would show up slightly more. I have Topshop's cream highlighter (Glow) in the shade polish which I feel doesn't blend as well with foundation and sits on top like an extra layer even when blended out. Lightscapade is perfect for everyday make up so you'll definitely get a lot of use out of it. 

Benefit's Brow zings
I wasn't sure this product was worth the money so decided to try a cheaper alternative as I'd never used wax and powder to do my eyebrows. I was running low and luckily received this for christmas. This is definitely worth the money compared to cheaper alternatives. The quality of the product is so good and defines the brows perfectly. The brushes in the set also make application so much easier because they're so small. This product stays in place a lot better than cheaper alternatives and the packaging is also fab. Gimme brow is the perfect combo for this product and I would definitely repurchase both.

Topshop mum jeans
These are so comfy and go with everything! I decided I needed an alternative to my skinny jeans and fell in love with these ever since my sister got some. These are definitely my go to pair of jeans at the moment and they'll be perfect as the weather gets warmer too.

Nike flex 2015 ladies running trainers
My old ones were falling apart and my boyfriend saved the day with these Nike running trainers. These are a teeny bit too big for me as I'm in between sizes which is very annoying but they support my feet perfectly. The arch is slightly raised so adds cushioning and the soles are super flexible so they're comfortable to run in.

My dressing gown and cosy socks
I live in both throughout the year but especially in the winter. I love being cosy as I'm always freezing and these both target that problem straight away.

Nutribullet
I have also been loving my Nutribullet. It's quick, easy and very clean, so making smoothies isn't such a chore. It's so versatile meaning you can make nearly anything you want with it but I tend to just stick to smoothies and milkshakes.

Eastenders
This has been so good recently and I look forward to it every evening, even on wednesdays when I forget it's not on! Stacey's storyline has been so intense and gripping that I've looked forward to every episode.

Craig David
I've never payed attention to his music until recently and I'm now obsessed. His music is really chilled and laid back, perfect for revison. I try to not to listen to the same songs constantly because then I know I'll end up hating them so I'll definitely have to add them to my iTunes and hope they come up on shuffle.

Amy x

Tips for revising

Mocks are just around the corner so if you're in a panic like I have been, this should help

1) Make a revision timetable

You don't need to spend ages making one but put your lessons and frees on it as well as evenings and weekends. Plan revision around lessons, work, hobbies etc to make an achievable plan for each week or do one week at a time. If this doesn't work for you, you could write a list of things to do that week and work through them planning each day as you go along. 

2) Get pens and paper ready to start

I use flash cards but I know a lot of people make mind maps or type it up. All of my revision material is out ready to go so it's quick and easy to get going. If I can always see it I can't forget what has to be done. 

3) Don't buy loads of revision guides

I did for GCSE but haven't bought a single one for A Level. I personally think class notes are detailed and thorough enough but I like to write everything I can down. If you prefer to listen a revision guide may fill in gaps you can't remember. They don't hold all of the relevant info at A level so you'll have to research into somethings whereas for GCSE if you learnt the book you'd know everything that would be in the exam. 

4) Turn your phone off

Harder said than done but if you can't hear it going off you may not get distracted as much. I still get distracted by anything and everything but if I can prevent this as many ways as possible I will try. 

5) Listen to music

I find listening to music helps me concentrate for some subjects and not others. It's easier to listen to music when doing practical work but it's said that classical music really helps with revision. 

6) Take regular breaks

This can be to have a snack break or just a break in general but you have to stay disciplined if you want to get anything done. I'm definitely very hard on myself when it comes to having time off but you must do it to stay sane!

7) Eat healthily and drink lots of water

A healthy body means a healthy mind so the professionals say. I think it does have an impact on how alert and motivated you are and I try to keep to the same routine when revising so my body isn't hungry at inconvenient times.

Hope you've found this helpful in some way, if you have any other tips please let me know

Amy x

Favourite inspirational quotes

So to keep up the motivation from our New Years resolutions I thought I would share with you some quotes which help me keep motivated and will hopefully help keep you motivated through the tough month of January too!

'Remind yourself that it's okay not to be perfect'

'Life is too short to wait'

'If it makes you happy, do it. If it doesn't, don't.'

'Stop being afraid of what could go wrong and start being positive about what could go right'

'Every moment is a fresh beginning'

Amy x

New year resolutions / 2016 goals

This is a massive opportunity for everyone to think about the year that's past and the year that's to come so I thought I would share with you what I want to achieve in 2016. I have tried to keep some broad so they're more achievable because many goals are very specific and I know I'll be disappointed if I don't achieve them. So here goes..

1) Maintain a healthy lifestyle

I know everyone says this one but I really need to turn my lifestyle around. It's not awful but it could be a lot better. I need to keep to a routine so it becomes second nature and learn to say no to unhealthy food and yes to the gym. I have got out of the habit of going to the gym, before christmas last year I was doing so well but never got back the motivation I had before. Hopefully I can this time round.

2) Start eating healthier food and less food in general

As well was the gym I've got into the habit of feeling I need to eat all the unhealthy food so it's not in the house but my mum then goes and buys more so it's a never ending circle. I got a nutribullet for  christmas so this will help me make tasty alternatives. I also snack so I eat more than I need to. By having better meals hopefully this will help me keep track of what I'm eating.

3) Drink more water

I can go a day with one glass of water which is crazy but my body is used to it. I have never been a big drinker and just don't think about it. If I can improve my water intake then hopefully this will reduce the amount I'm eating too. 

4) Stop procrastinating

I have done this everyday over christmas, it's what I'm doing now as I'm writing this post because I just get stuck on social media instead of doing work. If I plan what I'm doing and set myself achievable targets and breaks hopefully I can be more productive in the new year.

5) Save

I'm looking to buy a newer car than my 14 year old fiat Punto so 2016 is the year of the upgrade. I wanted to wait until the weather becomes warmer so I can save a bit more and practice in icy conditions (if we have some) so I don't crash a newish car.

6) Finish sixth form with 3 a-levels

I just need to work hard to achieve what I need to progress. It would be nice to have three so I can keep my options open but I need to stop focusing on the grades and just get things done.

7) Get into the Fashion Retail Academy

Teachers push you to go to uni and it's something I've never been interested in. When I discovered the Fashion Retail Academy I knew that's where I wanted to go. I have applied so we'll have to wait and see what happens.

8) Build my blog

I have realised recently that I need to push myself to achieve more. I think it's achievable if I work hard and stay consistent. Hopefully I can somehow figure out how to improve the layout with the guidance of many bloggers posts on this topic.

9) Stop caring what others think

I really need to stop caring about what others think. It may just be the fact that I'm in sixth form and that is what school environment is like but I guess we'll see in September. It happens nearly every day and I need to start focusing on myself rather than others because it's not getting me anywhere. 

10) Reduce Stress

I get way too stressed on things I don't need to stress about and I definitely need to reduce this. I need to learn to just go with it. I have definitely got into the habit of thinking if something isn't perfect it's failed or it's not good enough. I want to plan an evening every week to just relax, do something I enjoy and treat myself.

11) Learn to control my emotions 

I do get so wound up and it doesn't help that my family and boyfriend take pleasure in this. I need to think in the moment and appreciate what I have.

12) Become tidier

My room builds up, then I tidy it and it builds up again. Putting things away would help but I don't always have time. I need to spend 10 mins each day putting things away or tidying a bit to keep it more manageable. I have recently moved rooms and am trying to find homes for everything. Whilst sorting through everything I need to have a massive clear out of things I don't need and don't use. This will help my room stay tidier whilst also helping local charities.

13) Get organised

I have an organised exterior but I never ever feel organised. I like to have lists and tick things off but when it takes a while it frustrates me a lot! I would really like to keep on top of things this year so hopefully the pressure won't get to me too much. I got a dodo pad for christmas so this will definitely help me with keeping organised. It also has note pages opposite each week which will be fab for lists and notes.

14) Stop being late

This is kind of a jokey one because I'M ALWAYS LATE!! It's something i'm kind of known for now but since i'm now driving I can't rely on my mums driving skills and shortcut knowledge.

15) Read more

So I was reading Twilight for about 2 or 3 years with the odd book taking over in between. I recently finished it and have moved onto New Moon. I feel the need to finish the series because I remember getting them the christmas after they came out and I was so excited. I don't want them to be a waste of money and am going to make sure they aren't! I hope to finish the last 3 this year and start working my way through the many books I own.

16) Hopefully finish a draft of my book

I started writing a chapter for a book on my mum's life for my English coursework last year. Her life has been so packed with events that few have experienced them all. I think people need something to relate to, someone who's been through similar things and are still going. I would love to have a draft finished by the end of the year.

17) Show my appreciation more

I know I don't thank people enough and show my appreciation so I am going to try to give something back to the people who help me out so much just so they know how thankful I am.

Amy x

Favourite Festive Nail Polishes

I love to keep my nails looking good over the christmas season because it's the time of year to go all out. It is definitely the time to whip out those sparkly colours and experiment with designs. Here are a few of my favourite colours to use around christmas and new years.

From the left is SNP 2 Black 315 by Barry M.  This is the most subtle of the 4 and could also be a good shade for the transition in and out of the festive period. It could however be worn at any time of the year but I like to keep sparkles for christmas time. 

Then there's Red Glitter 037 which is the most christmassy colour ever! This sparkly red shade is my all time favourite nail polish and is so festive. This without a doubt gets me in the christmas mood.

Next along the line is Aqua Glitter 402 which is very very bright and looks so good when matched with the perfect outfit. It's personally not my favourite because it stands out so much so if it clashes with your outfit you can't hide it but if you like bright colours this is definitely one for you.

Last but by no means least is Yellow Topaz Glitter 350. This definitely comes close to the red shade but it doesn't win for the most festive colour for me. Although it's called 'Yellow' I wouldn't say it is overly yellow, it's the perfect gold shade. If it wasn't as yellow I don't think it would look gold at all.

I do apologise for the lack of light in the photo. Due to the weather my house is constantly gloomy so getting a decent picture is seeming to be quite a challenge

Merry Christmas!!

Amy x

The Riverside Grill - Bedford

I went out for a meal to the Riverside Grill with my family and it's safe to say we were very impressed. Each of us had a meal that we liked (this doesn't happen very often) and at a very affordable price. Looking at the restaurant, menu and presentation of the food  yo wouldn't think this is an affordable place but it is. Check out their website:  The Riverside Grill . Although there were numerous christmas parties and birthdays taking place, this didn't effect our service at all. 

The food was fab and was loaded with flavour. The top plate is the Giant King Prawns which my sister had. I have never in my life seen prawns this big, it's crazy. 

Below that is the grilled goats cheese and penne which was really tasty. It had so much flavour and the cheese definitely did it justice. It came with olives which I bravely tried but I'm still not too sure about them. They're definitely something I'd have to eat with something else. 

On the top plate of the middle picture are the fishcakes of the day. These were huge so mum ended up sharing. They were not bland at all which some tend to be and were perfectly cooked. The chips  they came with were really good. They weren't smothered in salt but still had an amazing flavour.

The Three Smoked burger on the bottom plate was very very hot so don't underestimate it! It was too spicy for me as I couldn't taste much after trying some but my dad thoroughly enjoyed the challenge. 

Last but not least is dessert!! My favourite course and the one I look forward to the most. 9 times out of 10 I look at the dessert menu first. The dessert on the top left is rhubarb crumble, on the right is the Belgium chocolate and raspberry tart and the bottom is the warm cookie and ice cream sandwich. My mum and sister enjoyed theirs however the one and only criticism I would have about mine (warm cookie and ice cream sandwich) was that the cookie wasn't warm so I was a bit disappointed about that but it still tasted amazing and was beautifully set out. 

I would definitely recommend visiting and I will definitely be returning

Amy x

#ChristmasBloggerBoxShare

There's a first time for everything and this christmas was the first time I was involved in a box share. I was paired up with the lovely Mei Mei and had a budget of £10 to spend. I chose to buy her products that I thought she would like after reading a few posts and scrolling back through her instagram posts. It was so nice to chat to a blogger and get to know them, so I am really glad I got involved. If you would like to find out more about it, use the hash tag #ChristmasBloggerBoxShare

I opened my package up to find the cutest stocking! As well as the gifts were lots of little maltesers which I had to try not to eat before taking the pictures for this post.

In the stocking were 2 face masks which will definitely replenish my skin after all this wind we've had recently in the UK. There's just something about face masks that really relax me so I can't wait to have a pamper evening. Along with the face masks I also received some hand sanitizer. This for me is a handbag essential so will definitely go to good use. Mei Mei had also chosen some hand cream which will help me keep my hands soft during this cold weather. 

I also received some fluffy socks which are adorable. I literally live in fluffy socks so these are perfect. My room has the tendency to be freezing so these will definitley keep me cozy. 

When I first opened the stocking it smelt soo good so I knew there was something scented in there. At the bottom were these 2 yankee candles!! I received Christmas Treats and Merry Berry from Mei Mei which I love, I have recently been looking to buy some but had no clue which ones to choose so I am so excited to finally have some. I will definitely need to be stocking up on these soon.

I would just like to thank Becky and Ren for creating the BloggerBoxShare and I'm so glad I got involved, thanks again to Mei Mei 

Check out Mei Mei's Blog, Instagram and Twitter below
meimeisays
Instagram
Twitter

Amy x

20 things to do this Christmas

Christmas is my favourite time of year to make plans and take part in festivities. So I have 20 things you could do in the run up to christmas:

1)  Go ice skating

2)  Attend a christmas market

3)  Go to winter wonderland

4)  Have a christmas movie day

5)  Save a day to put up the decorations

6)  Bake festive treats

7)  Drive around to look at the christmas lights

8)  Organise a secret santa

9)  Go christmas shopping

10) Go out for a christmas meal with friends

11) Eat lots of chocolate

12) Meet up with family and friends

13) Buy/wear a christmas jumper

14) Help those less fortunate enjoy christmas

15) Wrap presents

16) Buy a christmas CD and turn it up!

17) Visit London

18) Get an advent calendar (if you've not got one already)

19) Go to a christmas light switch on

20) Build a gingerbread house

What are your fave things to do around christmas?

Amy x

How to look after your skin with the changing weather

This is the time of year when our skin becomes dry and spots start appearing. I try to prevent this before it happens but I'm the worst when it comes to a routine.

Firstly you need to drink enough water. Im 100% a hypocrite but it definitely helps wash away unwanted toxins, clearing your skin leaving it soft, hydrated and cleansed. A decent diet may also benefit your skin as well as prepare you for the mountains of chocolate christmas throws at you.

Secondly I would invest in a good moisturiser. I use Simples moisturiser, although not a high end moisturiser it works perfectly for me and I've never had any problems with it. There are products for breakouts but I rarely use them as I don't see the point in using products if my skin is clear. Freederm daily complex is the product I reach for when they do appear. It makes a different over night and has always reduced the size and redness of breakouts. However I find my skin becomes reliant on products when using them everyday and if I don't use it once, my skin feels terrible, so I try to keep my skin routine to a minimum. I'd rather get to bed earlier so stick to make up wipes nearly every night. I know its bad and others would gasp in horror but it doesn't work for everyone.

Lip Balm! I've never been a huge fan but due to the cold weather recently my lips have dried up over night so now I know I need to keep on top of this. Lush do lip scrubs which are fab for getting rid of dead skin, leaving them really soft. I also use vaseline as it's moisturising and makes such a difference after one use. 

Hand cream is also a good product to apply thickly just before bed to refreshen dry and cracked hands. Dream Cream from lush is amazing and isn't just a hand moisturiser but full body too. This product doesn't leave skin feeling greasy so can be used whenever.

Stress is a huge problem when it comes to skin. It makes my skin sooo so dry and spotty. To reduce stress I order my workload in a diary so I can clearly see what I have to do and tick it off when it's done. I also keep a calendar for social events, if its not on there, its not happening. This way I can't forget anything and it allows me to work towards dates, keeping my school and social life separate whilst staying stress free

Amy x

The Secret - Rhonda Byrne

This isn't your normal pick up and get into a good story and not one I'd normally reach for but when a friend at work said it was amazing and really helped her become more positive I decided I ought to give it a read.

The book and the film were both released in 2006 after Rhonda Byrne discovered a great secret after a series of traumatic events. She includes teachers and some of the world leaders of business, economics, medicine, psychology, history, theology and science. She also writes about real life stories of people who have changed their lives by using the secret. Examples are eradicating disease, gaining a large fortune, overcoming obstacles and achieving the impossible. This book shows you how to use the secret in every area of life, from health to wealth, success and relationships.

If you like an easy read I wouldn't recommend reading this. Although it's not a long book some parts really do make you think. I felt I had to read quite far in to actually understand some bits but thats probably just me. I agree with some parts but don't with others but it's all down to individual interpretation and experience. There are many reviews as to whether it actually works and it didn't for me but I don't think it matters. It definitely helps you to focus on what you want and to think more positively so for me this is a successful read 

Amy x

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Dubai lookbook

I didn't take pictures specifically for a blog post but I thought I'd incorporate it with what I did on my holiday. It was so hot most of the time was spent inside but if any of you have been to Dubai or countries with similar cultures you'll know that people there aren't used to seeing women uncovered so I tried to cover up to avoid all the stares. This was mine and my boyfriends first holiday together so we packed in as many things as possible.

So firstly we went to the shopping mall and went bowling. I wore an off the shoulder top from primark £3.00 (It also comes in white) with loose high waisted trousers from a shop in dragon mart.

This picture is of us in the biggest sweetshop in the world that's located in Dubai Mall. I'm wearing a miss selfridge crop top (£8), zara trousers (£25.99) and topshop sandals (£30).

Next is me on the podium at ferarri world wearing a white topshop shirt (£10), black shorts and mint green vans. 

The day we went to Alain zoo and up the mountain was by far the hottest day but  I still had to make sure I was covered properly so I wore a pashmina over my shoulders too. The top was from new look  as were the sandals (£15?) and the trousers were from Dorothy Perkins (£5).

In the picture below we went up the Burf Khalifa (the tallest building in the world). I was wearing a white lace dress from Topshop with my brown Topshop sandals (£30) along with my pashmina and Michael Kors handbag.

I look like such an idiot in this picture and have no clue why I was looking at the camera in this pose but I was. Here we were on a boat which travelled along the creek as we had dinner.  I was wearing a Miss Selfridge top (£10) and my black shorts with my black new look sandals.

This final picture is from our two year anniversary. Callum took me to the Burj al Arab for afternoon tea. If you get the opportunity I would 100% recommend going. The seven courses were amazing and I really hope one day I have the opportunity to go again. Here i'm wearing a red dress from Zara (£15.99) and chunky sandals from Primark (£10).

I hope this gives some ideas and inspiration for other peoples holidays even if most people have already been on theirs

Amy x

August Empties

I do apologise for the lack of posts over the past couple of weeks but our wifi has just decided to stop working.  My next post planned was my holiday lookbook but I haven’t been able to get the pictures so that will be up in the near future.

So lets get on with todays post, My August Empties. It normally takes me ages to finish a product as I use a product until its finished and then replace it with a new alternative. As I’m the only one using them it takes a while so I thought before I forget and throw everything away I best do this post.

The first product I finished was the Superdrug Pro Vitamin silky smooth shampoo (£?). At first this made my hair a little greasier quicker than normal as it has argan oil in it and I rarely use conditioner or any other products because I have THE thinnest hair in the universe. But after a few washes my hair adjusted to the shampoo and it made my hair feel soft and replenished which is definitely what it needed. My hair now looks and feels a lot healthier.

Secondly is the Original Source shower gel (Normally £2.30, Now £1). A little goes a long way so this lasted ages! I love the smell and they have so many different ones there will 100% be one you’ll like.

Then there's the Freederm Daily Complex (£7.30). I love this stuff! I definitely saw a difference after the first use and as my skin cleared up I stopped using it until needed. Time and time again it did its job and reduced the redness and size of spots. If you apply foundation directly after applying this it doesn’t give the best finish. So I suggest you let it sink in properly first. Once it’s sunk in foundation looks beaut. Sometimes mixing it with foundation gave a more natural no make up make up look and lightens foundation.

Another product was the Johnson's make up be gone clear skin wipes (£3.05? from Superdrug). To be honest I didn’t notice they improved my skin but they didn’t cause any breakouts and removed the majority of my make up. They did fairly well to not dry out considering they were in an air conditioned room.

Next is the peroxide solution from Specsavers. I get through so many of these as I wear contacts near enough everyday. The only downfall to this product is that if it doesn't dilute properly. I found this out when I had a faulty pot as every time I put my contacts in my eyes stung and felt like they were burning. But this product does clean them thoroughly so my contacts last the whole month.

My recent foundation empty is Benefits Hello Flawless (£26.50). This is probably one of the best colour matches that I've found as well as the powder so they've done well with that however I'm not a lover of dewey foundation as by the end of the day it's almost dewey anyway so this wasn't the perfect foundation for me.

Last is one of my all time fave products and one of many finished and that is Batiste shampoo (around £3). This is amazing and helps give volume and save my hair for one more day without washing. The mini ones are fab to keep in your bag or take on holiday to save space but these big ones are great to keep at home as they last for ages.

Amy x

Dubai Haul

I wouldn't say I went overboard on my holiday shopping, my boyfriend definitely did. I was actually surprised with how little I came home with but as always it was a struggle to repack my case as much as it was to actually pack it in the first place. Yes I am that person who has to pack an outfit for each day of the holiday and especially if it's going to be 50 degrees. Everything I bought was in dirhams but I'll tell you the prices anyway incase you're visiting.

The picture above contains all of the items I bought for my room as I've recently moved rooms because we had an extension built. I chose to paint it light grey and have white furniture so I can jazz it up with decorations and it doesn't matter what colour they are. At the top is a piece of art made out of leather (60AED). I picked this up when we went to the heritage museum which was really interesting, containing information about the history of Dubai. The seven camels represent the seven sheikhs of the UAE. I am currently on the look out for a frame to put it up on my wall.  I chose this cushion (44AED) above from Fakih collections Antiques Museum because I think it's beautiful. If you're ever in Dubai this is the place to go and get all your souvenirs as everything is in one place. Finally just on the right is a metal postcard, I have an obsession with collecting postcards wherever I go. I never send them but I like to put them in my scrapbook. In this case I can't so this is another piece to decorate the wall with.

Next are a few bits and bobs. I got the two pouches as I thought they'd be useful to put in my bag and keep small things together so like chewing gum or make up etc. The camel one was from the textile suke (4AED) I think? and the pink one along with the keyring were from the Fakih Collections Antique Museum.

I bought the saucepan and frying pan from Daiso (9AED each) because one they're mini, two they're pink and three they're cute and I couldn't leave them there. I'm not sure how much food I'll exactly get in them but at least I can make mini pancakes. I then got the giraffe salad scoop things (10AED) from Fakih Collections Antique Museum because giraffes are my favourite animal and I find it hard to resist anything with a giraffe on so I just had to pick them up. Lastly there's the car air freshener (19AED) from lifestyle. I currently can't drive and don't have a car but as my test isn't far away I thought I'd prepare for the future somehow. These do smell amazing though, my mum's got one in the car and it's really strong so does what it's there to do. I've got mine in Vanilla but there are loads of other scents to choose from.

So moving on to my toiletries/cosmetics. I can't stress how many times I've been into Bath and Body Works. It is one of my all time faves. I have about 10 of their mini hand sanitisers but  haven't ever walked out with anything else. Both my mum and nan love them as they're so handy and come in every scent so I guess it runs in the family. This time I set out to buy matching shower gel and hand soap to look cute in my en suite but they didn't do the hand soap of my favourite shower gel scent (Amber blush 70 AED) which messed that one up a little so I ended up with these two above. They're fresh and the hand soap (Midnight pomegranate 40 AED) is a little fruity which is all you want when you leave the bathroom smelling your hands. That kind of sounds weird but everyone does it if the soap smells good. Hiding up the top there is my first ever NYX purchase from Lifestyle. I love this product! It's so nourishing for your lips but buildable for a more pigmented colour. It doesn't last all day but it's similar to a lib balm, once it sinks in it's gone but I like that it does two in one. 

How can you expect me to go into the worlds biggest sweetshop and come out with nothing. You're right, you can't. I could literally spend all day in Candylicious. Every time I go I bring back a bag of jelly beans that I've never tried before so I thought I'd carry on that tradition and this time thought I would try some more things out. I got the birthday cake m&ms (9AED) to try but I'm not too sure what they're going to be like, I guess I'll find out soon. As goes with the desserts flavoured skittles (9AED). I have never ever seen these before. Unless I'm blind I don't think we have these in the UK either. We're so boring when it comes to food really. And last but no means least are the two Airhead bars (9AED each) at the back. I've only ever tried raspberry and cherry ones I think before and they were nice so I thought I'd try some other flavours but the ones I found were no normal ones, they have 2 in 1 bar! I have one strawberry & watermelon and a pink lemonade & orange to try so I'll find out soon if they're good enough to repurchase 

Amy x

Alexander McQueen - Savage Beauty Exhibition 14th Mar - 2nd Aug

When we walked into the first room I was lost for words. It was far from what I'd imagined it to be. It was pitch black and there was a screen with the skeleton of a skull. If you are familiar with McQueen's work you'll know it's dark. It really is quite scary. Most of the mannequins had masks on and if a human were to wear it they'd nearly suffocate. The room with the catwalks showed the outfits on models which made the pieces look complete. The mannequins didn't do them justice.

My favourite ranges are The Girl Who Lived Under The Tree Autumn/Winter 2008 and Plato's Atlantis Spring/Summer 2010. For me these are the ranges I would most likely wear. He was looking forward to what people of the 20th century would wear and pieces designed many years ago are now current trends. Take the lace up heels or the heel less heels. He also had designs of cut outs and off the shoulder tops which are all currents trends. It's safe to say he knew exactly what he was doing and what was to come.

The best by far were the quotes on the wall as you walked around. They were either from Alexander McQueen himself or others about him or his work. They really told a story not just of his work but of his life. The ending quote was fairly emotional as you know it's his goodbye. Alexander McQueen sadly committed suicide in February 2010 just after releasing his final range Plato's Atlantis. Many said this was his greatest achievement, if only he knew that. 
He didn't get chance to reveal his Autumn/Winter 2010 collection which was yet to be named. It was unofficially named 'Angels and Demons'.  Sixteen designs had been cut by Alexander and were nearly complete. Sarah Burton finished the collection which was only shown to 7 select groups.

"There is no way back for me now. I'm going to take you on journeys you've never dreamed were possible."

The exhibition really shows you how his mind worked and how he coped with life. Fashion was how he liked to express this. He really wanted to prove that you can see beauty in everything and I think he succeeded.

"It was about trying to trap something that wasn't conventionally beautiful to show that beauty comes from within."

The exhibition was a perfect tribute to him and his work. 

I'm afraid we were unable to take photos whilst in the exhibition but most of the pieces are in his book 'Alexander McQueen'. 

Amy x

Hand Luggage Essentials

As I'm off on holiday next Tuesday and so many others are off on their travels too I thought I'd share with you what my hand luggage essentials are. I pack the vital things in my hand luggage so that if I lost my suitcase I would still be able to contact someone and carry on with my holiday.

The first and most important is your passport followed by your tickets. You won't be getting on that plane without these so leave early enough so you do have time to go back for them. I keep mine in a zipped pocket in my hand luggage that's easy to access so I know where they are all times.

I then have my phone so I can contact people at the other end and when I arrive back home. I also keep my charger to top it up if it runs out of charge. 

Staying on the topic of electricals I take my iPod to listen to and 2 pairs of headphones. My over the ear headphones and my in ear headphones. I always find over the ear hurt after a while so I take my in ear headphones too and I also find they're more comfortable to sleep in. 

I take a book and magazine with me to read in the airport. At the moment I'm reading The Secret and Twilight. Yes I have been reading Twilight for ages but I'll have time to actually read it in the airport as well as by the pool on holiday. I tend not to read them on the plane as I take full advantage of the films haha.

I keep a little pouch in my bag with some items which I know if I don't take, I'll need. I call this my emergency kit. In it there is hand sanitizer, tissues and wipes for keeping clean. Theres nothing worse than feeling like you have grubby hands. They're also useful for in the airport if you stop to have something to eat. I keep paracetamol in there incase I get a headache etc, they're useful to keep in your bag incase someone else is in need of them too. I also keep a body spray or perfume on me at all times. Little testers of perfume are perfect for travelling as they're so small and definitely won't exceed the liquid limit which is 100ml per container in the UK.

Make up isn't a must but I don't want feel disgusting so I just take concealer, powder and mascara to put on when I arrive so I look slightly presentable. At the moment I'm using MAC's Select Cover Up concealer, Benefit's Hello flawless powder and Soap and Glory's Thick and Fast High Definition Collagen Coat Mascara.

My next essentials are both food related. I always have sweets for the take off, it's just something my family always do and always have done. I also like to take chewing gum to keep my mouth feeling fresh for the whole journey.

Last but not least is sunglasses so you're prepared when you arrive and won't have to rummage around in your suitcase. This way can also prevent them braking or snapping in your suitcase.

Amy x

My Lush collection

My room constantly smells like I'm in the lush shop and I have quite recently discovered my love for lush products making it smell even stronger. These are the items that make up my ever expanding collection...

I bought this Golden Egg bath bomb (£3.75?) in Milton Keynes just after Easter and was waiting for an occasion to use it. My friends party was in June so I decided to keep it for then. It made my bath a beautiful golden sparkly colour. I didn't expect to be glittery when I got out but it was a real subtle shimmer which was great for a party and it lasted all night.  

This is what I have at this current point in time. I do have one more bath bomb but it's crumbled so I decided to miss that one out. I think it was an ice cream one from ages ago. I've had it a few years but put it in my draws to make my clothes smell nice so I think that'll be going in the bin soon. It's a good way to keep them in use whilst you're waiting to use them but don't forget they're there like I did.

So from the left I have my bath melts. I have the Floating Island (£2) which is the cream one at the back, which smells of white chocolate but I wouldn't say it's too sweet. The yellow one in front is called Shark Infested Custard and it smells exactly like custard (as the name suggests). I'm yet to try these out but as they're bath oils I'm guessing they'll be really soothing on the skin leaving it really soft? 

Next to them is Shine So Bright (£4.75) which is for split ends. I wouldn't exactly say I've seen a drastic improvement in my hair but I would definitely say my ends feel a little thicker and softer. I would say it is expensive for the size considering other products they do but I think it's a handy travel size hair treatment. I've had it a while now and it's not running out at all so it's very long lasting.

Then over to the back right I have the Popcorn Lip Scrub (£5.50). I use it mostly before I put lipstick on so my lips are soft and smooth and won't flake throughout the day. I love it for that but I really can't stand the taste. Sometimes it's a nice caramel but other times it's just a salt taste which makes me gag so I have to wipe it off with a tissue or cloth straight away. That is personal preference, I just don't like salt so if you do don't let that put you off. I do love the product and would definitely buy again but in a different flavour.

Underneath Popcorn is the Comforter Bubble Bar (£4.75) which smells just like sweets mmm. I haven't tried this out yet but I've heard so many good things about it so I'm excited to use it.

On the far right is the Sweetie Pie Shower Jelly (£3.50) which I was fairly sceptical about when I saw it in the shop. I have to say it is quite an entertaining product but you need concentration so you don't drop it. I wouldn't advise using this for a quick in out shower as it's not something you can just grab quickly but it's great fun.

Finally my last item is the Comforter Shower Gel (£4.95) which I forgot to include in the photo. It has the same scent as the bubble bar but it's just in a liquid form. I love this shower gel as it's very moisturising and doesn't leave my skin feeling dry at all. The scent stays for quite a while and is as though I've sprayed perfume. I would definitely recommend this as it's a perfect all round shower gel.

Amy x