tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43391961847400022362024-03-21T09:16:12.470+00:00The Science of HappyTSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.comBlogger109125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-390945238121176362019-01-28T20:56:00.000+00:002019-01-28T20:59:12.857+00:00How To Attend A Gig When Pregnant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBgCgI9mqOdg55EV340xz_hZFjQIVeNvSmZoDV2rUQNf8NVbjIKlUFiKyJjngq5hGl3bVTnbq4Q4f8FSiP4bOZf6kPzqVYAuNS8UQLgV9UQPZ7Q-rKarTzBJ8-A3851qKshTVBRWoxDk/s1600/Odesza+O2+Brixton+Academy+London+2019+Fakear+Kasbo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBgCgI9mqOdg55EV340xz_hZFjQIVeNvSmZoDV2rUQNf8NVbjIKlUFiKyJjngq5hGl3bVTnbq4Q4f8FSiP4bOZf6kPzqVYAuNS8UQLgV9UQPZ7Q-rKarTzBJ8-A3851qKshTVBRWoxDk/s640/Odesza+O2+Brixton+Academy+London+2019+Fakear+Kasbo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Can you go to gigs while pregnant? Yes, of course you can! Depending on how far along you are, you will have to adjust your plans accordingly. <script type="text/javascript">
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Did you book not knowing you were pregnant?</h2>
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I did! If you email the venue, they may offer you an allocated area in 'Standing' or offer to move you to seated if the cost of the ticket is the same price (but honestly, when is it ever). </div>
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Standing or Seated?</h2>
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Even if you are very early in your pregnancy, I would advise to book 'Seated'. Even early on in your pregnancy, you will experience symptoms of pregnancy and tiredness could be one of them as well as frequent urination and back ache.</div>
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Need a wee?</h2>
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Find out where the toilets are for the venue you are attending and if they are close to your location. Also consider where the disabled toilets are because more often than none, toilet queues can be out the door and you may find yourself queuing for 20 minutes if you cannot find anyone nice enough to let you squeeze in before you wet yourself. If you can locate the disabled toilets, please also check to see how you can access these as you may need to ask to use a key each time. It'd be worth it to mention that you will be going frequently.</div>
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Steps?</h2>
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If you are heavily pregnant, please ask to know the amount of steps you will have to walk to get to your seat if you have a Seated ticket. </div>
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Hungry/thirsty?</h2>
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Most places won't allow you to bring in food or drink for security and safety reasons. Try to get your share of food and drink before queues begin to form but be weary that this may be inconvenient if you are standing and have many cups/bottles of drink and lots of food. This is also an inconvenience when seated so it might be a case of asking friends to get you your drinks when they go for theirs. Bottles are now given to you without caps which can be a nuisance if you are not drinking from it right away.</div>
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Ask for physical support</h2>
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If you are going to a gig that has a capacity of a couple thousand, please do not be afraid to ask your friends for physical support like holding hands or linking arms. You'll find that all attendees will be pushing, squeezing, running etc especially at the end of the gig. So you'll find yourself being battered around at times, even aggressively. </div>
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I hope this has helped! I attended the O2 Academy Brixton recently but will probably hold off from further gigs until after my baby arrives. Although the gig itself was incredible, I found the venue was not suitable for pregnant women. If I have missed out any tips, feel free to add yours below.</div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-6799699987029642352019-01-01T17:35:00.000+00:002019-01-01T17:38:44.016+00:00A Little Announcement I'm going to keep this short and sweet (like myself no?)<script type="text/javascript">
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<br />Myself and my partner are having a baby in Summer 2019!</h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtBdrsq1zMTKoertvtYDLVraCIdAozo2a4I8vnKm-y4nHk-0les9IOr16Djl4OYVdLZDC0383GTx1MoUpr8aaCiTBCZ16NdlOH8Cg2Y0-eq3zlx6k3hJL0MJ5lI4Vz2yONKPWUoN77iJ8/s1600/Safari_Nursery-1-of-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="736" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtBdrsq1zMTKoertvtYDLVraCIdAozo2a4I8vnKm-y4nHk-0les9IOr16Djl4OYVdLZDC0383GTx1MoUpr8aaCiTBCZ16NdlOH8Cg2Y0-eq3zlx6k3hJL0MJ5lI4Vz2yONKPWUoN77iJ8/s640/Safari_Nursery-1-of-10.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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I will try my hardest to document my journey as I want to be as honest as possible when it comes to pregnancy since I have found the internet to be very one-sided. Apart from social media, friends and forums - I have found information online very generic and unhelpful.<br />
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I didn't discover I was pregnant until about 5 weeks and strangely enough, it was my Natural Cycles app that told me I was with child. Whaaaaaaat? The app noticed my temperature was high and asked me to do a test. I've had my fair share of pregnancy scares (I mean who hasn't) so thought nothing of it so I did a test with a spare preggo test I had (don't lie - we all have a spare). Now that damn second line...<br />
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...faint as fuck it was.<br />
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I spent the majority of my Saturday looking like I'd lost the plot. I spent about 4 hours shouting at a stick of piss. Full-on conversation. I was hysterically crying and asking it...<br />
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"WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU?"</h4>
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This is because my second line was extremely faint but as the instructions read, if there is a line - THERE IS A DAMN LINE WOMAN.<br />
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(Disclaimer; not the actual words of FirstResponse)<br />
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My other half reacted much better than I did at first, but when we did our second test the day after and it bloody told me just how far along I was, his reaction was merely a simple and minimalistic...<br />
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"FUCK"</h4>
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Aside from our mental reactions (and let's not lie, how many of us react like that damn Clearblue advert), we were instantly in-love with our baby and there was no question about whether we wanted to keep it or not. Both of us are so in-love and are very family-orientated.<br />
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Sadly, we had to cancel our Christmas in Kenya due to birth defect risks from Zika and Malaria, and we lost a ton of money but we don't regret it at all.<br />
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I am now 14+3 weeks but it hasn't been smooth sailing.<br />
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<u>Week 8</u>, I had to go to hospital twice because of severe back pain that led me to going home sick from work and not sleeping for days. My hormones were and still are extremely high and my tiny frame meant that my body was struggling to change so much in such little space. This eventually went away after my mum gave me her emergency latex mattress topper and I bought a pregnancy pillow.<br />
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While I have only been sick 3 times and not really had morning sickness, I have been nauseous to texture and smells. At one point, I just burst into tears when my boyfriend asked me what I wanted for tea. I ended up surviving on miso soup with chopped veg because that's all I could stomach.<br />
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I have had little trouble since then until now at <u>Week 14</u> where I am faced with crippling face and body acne (I look like I have leprosy) and a constant headache and if there is one thing I can't bear, it's headaches. Not to be a drama queen, but I once thought I was dying.<br />
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I do not handle headaches well.<br />
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So it's been agony lately with my never-ending gargoyle-ness and constant pain.<br />
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On top of this, I am still exhausted even though they say in your second trimester you have a burst of energy, and I'm trying to micro-manage my boyfriend (tip: buying Commando Dad and delegation is the answer).<br />
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Also for those on a tight baby budget, here are some good freebies to take advantage of which doesn't require you to sign your life away to a barrage of incessantly annoying spam emails from several different companies.<br />
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<a href="https://www.babyboxco.com/baby-box-university/" target="_blank">The Baby Box Co</a> - Do a short video course and get a free baby box with free samples<br />
<a href="https://www.emmasdiary.co.uk/" target="_blank">Emma's Diary</a> - Get up to 3 different baby packs with offers and discounts on baby stuff<br />
<a href="http://www.bounty.com/" target="_blank">Bounty</a> - Get up to 3 different baby packs with offers and discounts on baby stuff<br />
<a href="https://www.cgbabyclub.co.uk/" target="_blank">Cow & Gate Baby Club</a> - Postal packs (including a pregnancy diary) and cuddly cow<br />
Facebook Marketplace - This is a great way to find free baby stuff including brand new items that other mummies just want to get rid of<br />
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Can I also point out that if you're pregnant and less than 12 weeks, you can tell whoever the fuck you want. Let's fight this social stigma!<br />
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-13533159183707059542018-12-30T20:41:00.000+00:002018-12-30T20:41:21.303+00:00Handmade Happiness with The Yay MakersA little while ago, the people at <a href="https://www.theyaymakers.com/" target="_blank">The Yay Makers</a> contacted me to review a box of theirs. The Yay Makers describe their box as 'a box of handmade happiness, wellbeing and creative wonderfulness'.<script type="text/javascript">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaz1v75fYeK0KpsGlMmcABoZxchyphenhyphenZjroOmgsS7HmstUJGpv1CjctUcTMhhXHHH43jIKHs_xgLlyUS-UIN2J334IlHyogrMlq3o0GlOkU1ulEj8g7PVkrbZyGwxWGdBusv6ZH124Kjxy1Q/s1600/The+Yay+Makers+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Creative+Wellbeing+Happiness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaz1v75fYeK0KpsGlMmcABoZxchyphenhyphenZjroOmgsS7HmstUJGpv1CjctUcTMhhXHHH43jIKHs_xgLlyUS-UIN2J334IlHyogrMlq3o0GlOkU1ulEj8g7PVkrbZyGwxWGdBusv6ZH124Kjxy1Q/s640/The+Yay+Makers+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Creative+Wellbeing+Happiness.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I love boxes like these because they are an instant pick me up. The colours and variety of products are uplifting not to mention they usually feature independent artists and sellers. If there's one thing I've really enjoyed this Christmas, it's the emphasis on shopping local and supporting small businesses and creators.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJtURVIQnfvCykEwt1GwA0U8jCRAv5bZUC9MnDpTGqOH-NiNeLj4Z6Gxm3G9Y-OWhgejMW2CGqri8Ae4s9YSxobwnTBtaavhaeKfQ1kSsiCdZxVPX6ns-nqts0VzmAEJjyawHAdM8tSY/s1600/The+Yay+Makers+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Creative+Wellbeing+Happiness+Notebook+Pins+Tote+Bag+Stationary+Tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJtURVIQnfvCykEwt1GwA0U8jCRAv5bZUC9MnDpTGqOH-NiNeLj4Z6Gxm3G9Y-OWhgejMW2CGqri8Ae4s9YSxobwnTBtaavhaeKfQ1kSsiCdZxVPX6ns-nqts0VzmAEJjyawHAdM8tSY/s640/The+Yay+Makers+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Creative+Wellbeing+Happiness+Notebook+Pins+Tote+Bag+Stationary+Tea.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Some of the goodies included colourful pins, badges, some wellbeing tea, a gorgeous tote bag and a postcard with a heart-warming note. It also included some cute stationary such as a notebook illustrated by Lydia and a positivity pencil.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8M1iMFUR18B2Nh0obf8PY7R09IvNWaxvaT2IXqqnmbQdTCSfvFAtqbYOesCZk0Tlg3HzsYYdreot6BZHIAUvbGqmnNAFoa-nPKk-SKdaL0fClkuEn0cCOE3WAxhW7ZBIcexClJGd7xw/s1600/The+Yay+Makers+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Pins+Wellbeing+Stationary+Creative.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8M1iMFUR18B2Nh0obf8PY7R09IvNWaxvaT2IXqqnmbQdTCSfvFAtqbYOesCZk0Tlg3HzsYYdreot6BZHIAUvbGqmnNAFoa-nPKk-SKdaL0fClkuEn0cCOE3WAxhW7ZBIcexClJGd7xw/s640/The+Yay+Makers+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Pins+Wellbeing+Stationary+Creative.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTYHHy6dHIXUyElJYWAuyO53efXJNhb15dAim2PUAsT5SZpVB0eLwFXJzCt9qD5RZ83P1P8a5yBnVtIjL5prscwwvmfIKJqupd4PPIEb2OlaF3DjCUpBLaINpjcaWPOknMOsH03eU-To/s1600/The+Yay+Makers+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Pins+Wellbeing+Stationary+Creative+Lydia+Meiying.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="940" data-original-width="1600" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTYHHy6dHIXUyElJYWAuyO53efXJNhb15dAim2PUAsT5SZpVB0eLwFXJzCt9qD5RZ83P1P8a5yBnVtIjL5prscwwvmfIKJqupd4PPIEb2OlaF3DjCUpBLaINpjcaWPOknMOsH03eU-To/s640/The+Yay+Makers+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Pins+Wellbeing+Stationary+Creative+Lydia+Meiying.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Yay Makers are known for their pins and if it's those you're collection, they do a special <a href="https://www.theyaymakers.com/pin-club-subscription-2019/" target="_blank">pin subscription box</a> for the collectors out there.</div>
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I think this box is amazingly uplifting and really useful. Any items you don't think you'll use are in a perfect condition to gift away too.</div>
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Brighten up someone's day with The Yay Makers.</div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-81593165255091201502018-11-25T20:18:00.000+00:002018-11-25T20:18:43.916+00:00Empowering Femininity with Project Lingerie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7OUE3EibbnUp9ldIsV6xYfc-2A0zPkrpk-Rf-c1xE3CzTa_dmhSFt6v3p5iTf1sBjBMv6bp5vrp9myWT5muKoaOMTclIeQT7e7OYyJ9VlAb29loUagK99cgvyUIaUwQ9kW7rCzc1QyY/s1600/Project+Lingerie+Subscription+Box+Underwear+Sexy+Nightwear+Set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7OUE3EibbnUp9ldIsV6xYfc-2A0zPkrpk-Rf-c1xE3CzTa_dmhSFt6v3p5iTf1sBjBMv6bp5vrp9myWT5muKoaOMTclIeQT7e7OYyJ9VlAb29loUagK99cgvyUIaUwQ9kW7rCzc1QyY/s640/Project+Lingerie+Subscription+Box+Underwear+Sexy+Nightwear+Set.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The lovely Rowan from <u><a href="https://projectlingerie.com/" target="_blank">Project Lingerie</a></u> reached out to me this year regarding promoting a new box to the UK subscription box scene.<script type="text/javascript">
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Project Lingerie describes itself as a box to inspire women to feel body confident and the sticker for the packaging is described as a nod to female curves being sexy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-vsRfVPqR1nuL2dWhVh4F-Md410UbXQ7W7XgZHIXDbiyYzRuaNOQUazefauwysOQDn-yGmj0wFhcUJUytOH3XhwRr7-ToUoKJGohEAkow0mNuogNHn-U-KC-n88ZCLGysinQwTWuxk_4/s1600/Project+Lingerie+Packaging+Sexy+Underwear+Set+Sticker+Curves+Subscription+Box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-vsRfVPqR1nuL2dWhVh4F-Md410UbXQ7W7XgZHIXDbiyYzRuaNOQUazefauwysOQDn-yGmj0wFhcUJUytOH3XhwRr7-ToUoKJGohEAkow0mNuogNHn-U-KC-n88ZCLGysinQwTWuxk_4/s640/Project+Lingerie+Packaging+Sexy+Underwear+Set+Sticker+Curves+Subscription+Box.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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You can choose whether the box is for yourself or a gift for someone else and you have the option of one of three boxes; Delite, Deluxe and Divine in the sizes you require.</div>
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The Delite package offers cute knickers, the Deluxe is full of seductive pieces and Divine is boudoir themed. I was kindly gifted a taster box of what Project Lingerie has to offer and was delite-fully surprised.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNMbdkEwr2SNzeYp6TDRjGVIt61udvNWaccQC0Q2Bb_PDjm0f8_zntCIGMEOWoFlYPVhAWVROLV4eeyHCjqS3LMQgodd-yjHFhI-esNdXaL41eD9Bw8bAbXTRLNPeL7D7rROVyvOX_Oo/s1600/Project+Lingerie+Subscription+Box+UK+Sexy+Underwear+Romantic+Packaging+Deluxe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="940" data-original-width="1600" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNMbdkEwr2SNzeYp6TDRjGVIt61udvNWaccQC0Q2Bb_PDjm0f8_zntCIGMEOWoFlYPVhAWVROLV4eeyHCjqS3LMQgodd-yjHFhI-esNdXaL41eD9Bw8bAbXTRLNPeL7D7rROVyvOX_Oo/s640/Project+Lingerie+Subscription+Box+UK+Sexy+Underwear+Romantic+Packaging+Deluxe.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The box came beautifully packaged in a letterbox friendly box wrapped in branded tissue paper and a premium gold sticker. Alongside this was a personal note and some cute sequins and gems in a mesh bag. The whole box came tied in a rich gold satin bow which made it all the more luxurious. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnabQbKGBSR8kbbpfcO9BnPo5aliN18JJiGop2ohJSbsIjrH17Hfugb31cQ0FIqVie9dhjjoJqhPwPjQyi3RH0YJwMkGFjPZnchC8elg0ZNIv5t9fdgkp_n3TG9UZdDwXiUEg2gsMJ0JI/s1600/Project+Lingerie+Subscription+Box+Underwear+Sexy+Nightwear+Set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnabQbKGBSR8kbbpfcO9BnPo5aliN18JJiGop2ohJSbsIjrH17Hfugb31cQ0FIqVie9dhjjoJqhPwPjQyi3RH0YJwMkGFjPZnchC8elg0ZNIv5t9fdgkp_n3TG9UZdDwXiUEg2gsMJ0JI/s640/Project+Lingerie+Subscription+Box+Underwear+Sexy+Nightwear+Set.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The piece itself was a matching camisole set with thong. You get to choose your knicker preference upon setting up your subscription and for me, thongs are the way to go (and no I don't find it uncomfortable). The set was a mesh and lace piece with a gemstone at the bust and a low back. The lace was intricate and of high quality. What I find more often than none is that a lot of 'premium' lingerie brands use cheap lace - the type that resembles a curtain voile more than lingerie. </div>
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I adore the message this box sends to women, that you can embrace your body and feel sexy in whatever. </div>
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Project Lingerie starts at £14.99 a month with shop extras from £12. Sign up <u><a href="https://projectlingerie.com/" target="_blank">here</a></u> to start your subscription.</div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-47207443010873075362018-10-27T15:19:00.000+01:002018-10-27T15:19:33.767+01:00Exclusive Giveaway with Kawaii Box<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU11OafHY85URaUM4Tp0rvrSpIJdNwXuVvpXDOhyphenhyphenDrJEv1rbZqvA6B6f88LInhPOv3_Qpw4ijlLCOij0wbLMfuz17NGmKadY0CMdxtUuibkfZbCjzbkIWVV99DRfeSvysiUvIO7KvFVZE/s1600/IMG_0173-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU11OafHY85URaUM4Tp0rvrSpIJdNwXuVvpXDOhyphenhyphenDrJEv1rbZqvA6B6f88LInhPOv3_Qpw4ijlLCOij0wbLMfuz17NGmKadY0CMdxtUuibkfZbCjzbkIWVV99DRfeSvysiUvIO7KvFVZE/s640/IMG_0173-2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Now we all know how quirky and fun the Japanese culture can be, from raw chicken dishes to crazy Sanrio characters that drink beer and listen to death metal. But I was still pleasantly surprised by the recent Kawaii Box that was sent to me to try.<script type="text/javascript">
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Being Asian myself, I grew up with a lot of kawaii-inspired characters and trinkets so I loved the cute box I received in the very same familiar candy-colours as I grew up with.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZaJP-ndiSl7iq287CWmypeMFnxKOq-PU-3eFwk7I8lZkrRJNgGMJhUijjlz9XsuUgfu5ZJ9M8lSiSMbUl42bKN07LCzDOhjdEbp-PEH0rMrzUUmj1rzsHP-Z2FmQ8rftKmraLIvOt0w/s1600/IMG_0182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZaJP-ndiSl7iq287CWmypeMFnxKOq-PU-3eFwk7I8lZkrRJNgGMJhUijjlz9XsuUgfu5ZJ9M8lSiSMbUl42bKN07LCzDOhjdEbp-PEH0rMrzUUmj1rzsHP-Z2FmQ8rftKmraLIvOt0w/s640/IMG_0182.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The theme for this box was Too Cute For School. I love the Kawaii take on there original phrase 'Too Cool For School'. It consists of mainly stationary and a few added extras. I work in an office supplied by cheap stationary. You know the brand - Q Connect or something. So it's always a treat to receive quirky stationary.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MGUiDBrDPd6EABMTU-tixMOwNNBeiMl4TwN2vha89Ss08amf6ihPvbuPmCLH5kgsMvJnY3GoLo3gSUdW40qTIOpkunuaqLw5Msihwuf2rWDiQ-LDNv87U6iv2Sk0teTN82T9qqg8R5Y/s1600/Kawaii+Box+Japan+Japanese+Subscription+Box+Too+Cute+For+School+Sanrio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="890" data-original-width="1600" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MGUiDBrDPd6EABMTU-tixMOwNNBeiMl4TwN2vha89Ss08amf6ihPvbuPmCLH5kgsMvJnY3GoLo3gSUdW40qTIOpkunuaqLw5Msihwuf2rWDiQ-LDNv87U6iv2Sk0teTN82T9qqg8R5Y/s640/Kawaii+Box+Japan+Japanese+Subscription+Box+Too+Cute+For+School+Sanrio.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I will be off to Japan myself in February to visit Osaka where my brother is getting married. I am extremely excited to experience the quirks of Japanese culture itself and try the incredible foods they offer. The Japanese culture is completely different to the Western and even Chinese culture which is one of the reasons I love travelling so much.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjptKp2EWsedIWi6WSpa9J51VSrGSow_69QpPPS-A_XiFsIb95MVlNeMJfEyI8ltmstG887R1eiqtMYYLNxM0SDR0umotozPbDcKW2JVYBgLhvTNzilWiwjveg5ZoO4gOTdIt6q0YblyDE/s1600/Kawaii+Box+Japan+Japanese+Subscription+Box+Too+Cute+For+School+Sanrio+Sloth+Squishie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="1600" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjptKp2EWsedIWi6WSpa9J51VSrGSow_69QpPPS-A_XiFsIb95MVlNeMJfEyI8ltmstG887R1eiqtMYYLNxM0SDR0umotozPbDcKW2JVYBgLhvTNzilWiwjveg5ZoO4gOTdIt6q0YblyDE/s640/Kawaii+Box+Japan+Japanese+Subscription+Box+Too+Cute+For+School+Sanrio+Sloth+Squishie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now here comes the giveaway bit for all my readers. Kawaii Box have kindly offered to give their latetest box to one special reader.</div>
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<a class="e-widget" href="https://gleam.io/dD97h/the-science-of-happy-kawaii-box-giveaway" rel="nofollow">The Science of Happy Kawaii Box Giveaway</a>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-197495929673927062018-09-18T21:33:00.000+01:002018-09-18T21:55:04.761+01:00Gotcha Tomotcha?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNDQz06IWpnPpykIuuyPb3QcNU0km6L20k0InirUL3y6PHgCe483bBOTA4_M3Lj1znIEEzdCvvZl92UG1CfZ4QTW4ZjLpTOA5FuYXEnN9uvj5MeVbPbs6fjMg0Aagrbxk3wQCUWfoniKI/s1600/Tomotcha+Japanese+Tea+Loose+Leaf+Asian+Green+Tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNDQz06IWpnPpykIuuyPb3QcNU0km6L20k0InirUL3y6PHgCe483bBOTA4_M3Lj1znIEEzdCvvZl92UG1CfZ4QTW4ZjLpTOA5FuYXEnN9uvj5MeVbPbs6fjMg0Aagrbxk3wQCUWfoniKI/s640/Tomotcha+Japanese+Tea+Loose+Leaf+Asian+Green+Tea.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Gotcha Tomotcha is my Japanese version of 'Got Milk'. I was sent two month's worth of Japanese tea to try from the lovely people of <a href="https://tomotcha.com/en/" target="_blank">Tomotcha</a>. After reading my blog, they had noticed my keen interest in tea. I have grown more fond and intrigued by Japanese culture as of late, as my older bother moved there about 5 years ago and I love hearing stories of his every day life out in the Japanese sticks (dunno what they would call it over there). He and his girlfriend recently visited over Christmas and she kindly brought some Japanese tea herself so I jumped at the chance to try a variation from Tomotcha.</div>
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I was sent Kabusecha and Tamaryokucha, how you pronounce these I'll never know - but a lot of a saliva comes out when I attempt to. I tried these both in the evening and was concerned it might keep me awake but surprisingly enough, it didn't keep me up all night like normal English Breakfast tea does.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkEQKot9fQg9QR8a3BbQ-rn65VSKbPL4nk4EtV22Hhajw6Tz6w9avZeJ_2nIbez0OiB2KkbuMTWxbmLhJ2PctUvIm4f_ORSDlE6fVweh2oQwqIm8IO0O5OYJBGh6PlBLRGd_sfbEcJMH4/s1600/Kabusecha+Japan+Japanese+Tea+Loose+Leaf+Leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkEQKot9fQg9QR8a3BbQ-rn65VSKbPL4nk4EtV22Hhajw6Tz6w9avZeJ_2nIbez0OiB2KkbuMTWxbmLhJ2PctUvIm4f_ORSDlE6fVweh2oQwqIm8IO0O5OYJBGh6PlBLRGd_sfbEcJMH4/s640/Kabusecha+Japan+Japanese+Tea+Loose+Leaf+Leaves.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The lovely tea on the left (Kabusecha) is described as mild and the one on the right (Tamaryokucha) is described as fruity. The Kabusecha is perfect for winding down before bed I found; I have a small glass cup of this tea (about half a mug) as it acts as a great night cap. The Tamaryokucha is better in the day and a great morning brew as you can definitely taste hints of berries. I tried both of these with different brewing technics, one in a teapot and another in a tea strainer. Both achieved the same quality aroma with a classic lime green colour.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_ldYnSVI6NQ-cy6QiFupZ-SmncsamcgypzJf78VmR4-Mn7cHRF-21KG1NPPKgNY5SX6-GSsoxc1WCR8pFjS1BNFLSV9skVBICiuh1qhI2Ypketejg9NotzhxQ9Hz_wJS_soUIhZuxfQ/s1600/IMG_9027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_ldYnSVI6NQ-cy6QiFupZ-SmncsamcgypzJf78VmR4-Mn7cHRF-21KG1NPPKgNY5SX6-GSsoxc1WCR8pFjS1BNFLSV9skVBICiuh1qhI2Ypketejg9NotzhxQ9Hz_wJS_soUIhZuxfQ/s640/IMG_9027.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I really enjoyed these two teas, you get a generous amount and the perfect amount of information to learn about what you're drinking. In the past, I've received teas with far too much information - and that's just the brewing instructions! This was incredibly refreshing to receive and I love that it comes in recyclable paper pouches. </div>
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I would advise everyone to go check <a href="https://tomotcha.com/en/" target="_blank">Tomotcha</a> out! </div>
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</script>TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-63151499878782526442018-09-02T22:37:00.000+01:002018-09-02T22:38:05.024+01:00I fell in love with a narcissistic gaslighter <div>
I was in an on-off (x 10) relationship for two years that happened to be the worst years of my life. It didn't take me long to realise that I was in a two year relationship with a nightmare narcissist. </div>
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His main exploitation was the use of manipulative gaslighting.<br />
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<i>"Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that seeks to sow seeds of doubt in a targeted individual or in members of a targeted group, making them question their own memory, perception, and sanity." </i></blockquote>
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The very first time his narcissism came to light was during an argument. I had said that he didn't like that I had a voice and that I spoke up against him when he did wrong. His response?</div>
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"You voice is too loud."</div>
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Like...who says that? That was an immediate sassy 'SAY WHAT' moment for me.<br />
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According to Psychology Today, there are 11 warning signs of a gaslighter; they lie, deny, attack the things important to you, wear you down, their actions don't match their words, use positive reinforcement, confuse you, project, align people against you and try to convince you everyone else is lying.<br />
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Lying</h2>
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Often my boyfriend would lie to me, but the only time it was ever obvious was when he would admit to it. You see, you never really know if they're lying because they do such a good job denying it and making you doubt yourself. My boyfriend even said to me "I lied, I only said that to shut you up." I even found out about some of the lies he was telling his friends after I confronted them myself.</div>
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Once, he told me the TV we now shared was his ex's and had "fucked her loads in front of it". He then told me he had lied about that too. But had he? Here comes the confusion again, because if he had, then obviously that was bad that he lied. And if it was a lie, who in the right mind would make something so vindictive up to tell his current girlfriend?<br />
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During one of the ten times we broke up, he had joined several dating sites (and a German sex site) and of course, when we got back together - he lied that he had deleted them.<br />
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Denial</h2>
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He told a friend of mine that he "fucking loves drugs" and that I was a dragon. How very passionate of you... *rolls eyes*. Obviously when this was brought up, he immediately denied this.<br />
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My boyfriend had also been flirting and courting another woman whilst we were together as I discovered in the late stages of our relationship. Not only did he hide our our personal Facebook posts from just her, but when questioned - he denied attempting to sleep with her and went on to say that "hooking up" to him meant "going for coffee".<br />
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Witholding</h2>
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Some of his actions made me feel inferior and disposable. Such actions includes times where he would go on a night out and tell me I'm disturbing his night and block me. He would also make initial engagements with friends for the weekend (the only time we get to see each other) and remain vague about his plans until last minute when he would cancel on me before I'm due to see him.<br />
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Affection is something he would withhold too and often this would happen very rapidly. It could go from being incredibly affectionate to not at all. One thing he said that really stuck with me was the fact that he was a man and isn't an emotional one at that. He said that he just fixes stuff for me and that should be enough. How archaic...<br />
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Actions and Words Don't Match</h2>
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This was a big one for me and one of the most prominent things he would do in order to confuse me. This is what I believe lead me to take him back the 10 times that I did. He would do things like tell me he would try harder which would usually end after 2 days. He said he would never dream of "fucking me off" then breaking up with me less than a month later. After a fair bit of time apart, he came back to me (it's always him coming back to me) and invested a hefty amount of time and effort convincing me that he was serious about the relationship, only to say "let's not rush into things".<br />
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Things like "better communication" was promised but then I wouldn't receive a call until 2 hours after we agreed which might not be a biggie for you, but at this point he had moved to Saudi Arabia to pursue his lifelong dream of earning big dolla by building war planes to bomb innocent civilians in Yemen. Morals eh...<br />
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He also had double-standards, during one of the many times we broke up, we were no longer speaking. Yet when we got back together he was mad at me for not asking how his dad was. I'm sorry but I wasn't just going to text a narc gaslighter who I've been trying to break free from out of the blue to ask how his pop is. During the Manchester Bombing (which happened to be where I lived at the time), he never text me to ask how I was, nor did I expect him to. Then he had the audacity to tell me that he had enough problems and didn't need to hear about mine. He has even called me selfish for talking about my feelings.<br />
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Countering</h2>
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Countering is where the abuser would make the victim doubt themselves by countering their recollection of events or statement.<br />
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We decided to go on holiday to Egypt as one last attempt to fix our deadly relationship. We had fallen out and he told me to book a different room in the hotel. He then tried to convince me it was myself who suggested it.<br />
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He had also once forgotten I had gotten a new job and then accused me of not telling him when in fact I had told him several times.<br />
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Blocking/Diverting</h2>
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This is essentially words and actions to make you doubt yourself. This is extremely powerful and could find you bowing down to the abuser if you're not careful. He would often make me feel to blame for my own emotions.<br />
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<h2>
Narcissism</h2>
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The combination of narcissism with gaslighting behaviour makes your escape so much harder. These are just some examples of his behaviour.<br />
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A keen traveller, he always thought he was superior because he was apparently more worldly than most and his experiences always crept into conversations.<br />
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He would refer to himself in third person, and often uses his full name.<br />
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He asked me how it felt to "touch Caesar"<br />
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He would use degrading and derogatory language in reference to me. I was often referred to as "mate" or his "bird" which I do understand to an extent when lads speak to one another but this was communicating with myself. He also said he would "blitz" me. If it's anything like the German bombing offensive in 1940-1941 then no thanks hun.<br />
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He signed off emails to me with his name as a hashtag.<br />
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Said he owned me and that I was his possession.<br />
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Told me that I was nothing and the worst woman in the world.<br />
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Tried to shut me up by holding his finger up at my mouth.<br />
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Called me a skid mark.<br />
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I was working full time and volunteering at a youth centre once a week and he would tell me that because I volunteered, it didn't make me into a better person.<br />
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He has previously told me I would never meet anybody else and that I was incapable of having a healthy relationship.<br />
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He once suggested doing cams online together so he could get more money.<br />
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One of the most significant and luckily one of the last incidences where he demeaned me was when we were on holiday, when I found out that he had slept with a prostitute. We were in and amongst new friends we had met on our travels but I was not being social after I learnt this new information. So he decided to bring our personal affairs to the pubic to humiliate me. Little did I know, he was about to stab me in the heart. He defended his decision to sleep with a prostitute by saying "A suck and a fuck for €50? BARGAIN!"<br />
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<h2>
Harassment, Police and how it all ended </h2>
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I mentioned a few times that we went on holiday and that it was a rocky experience (not the country but our relationship lol). The final straw had to be in the taxi, on our return from camping in the desert. We had been arguing a fair bit, and I had spent a lot of time crying my eyes out and I even considered opening the door and running away at one of the motorway checkpoints. But it was at this checkpoint where I (and I guess he cracked). Throughout the whole holiday, he was obsessed with his phone. Using it to chat to friends and yet not say a single word to me. He would spend 15 minutes editing a photo of himself that he made me take in certain angles, only to miss the view he spent so long forcing me to take - because I guess the right filter was more important than the view itself right? I asked him to stop going on his phone at this checkpoint and as if he was doing it in spite, he whipped out his phone. I grabbed his phone and much to my terror he raised a fist at me.<br />
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After one last try, I built up enough courage with the support of my friends and Greater Manchester Police and ended all contact with my now ex-boyfriend. But it wasn't plain sailing...<br />
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I had contacted the police way before our relationship had ended because of the harassment I was receiving when we had broken up. He would turn up at my door all the way from Wales in the middle of the night, he would find out what events I'm going to and turn up, he would contact me by calling me, texting me, Whatsapp-ing me, Facebooking me, calling from withheld numbers from Saudi Arabia, calling me from his friend's numbers and he would do it constantly. He even turned up at my door at midnight from Saudi Arabia. I had police case numbers and Domestic Violence files but he kept at it. He rang me from Saudi Arabia one night and whispered down the phone "I will always find you, I just have to be creative." I would have panic attacks in my sleep and wake up trying to scratch my own skin off or I would run to the door to check it was locked.<br />
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I was suffering and in so much pain.<br />
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I was referred to therapy to deal with my trauma and I couldn't have been happier with the results. I was finally free.<br />
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I am not a stupid girl, but I can't help but feel stupid. None of my friends felt comfortable around him, and they watched me suffer for two years while I got my heart attacked.<br />
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They were trying to save me but I never listened to them and often would hide the relationship from them.<br />
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Whilst I was with my ex, I lost my soul and lost my job through the depression.<br />
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His behaviour affected the start of my next relationship, I refused to believe this new relationship would be any different to the horror I experienced.<br />
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I was mistaken.<br />
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I am now madly in love with the man of my dreams, my best friend - my soulmate. He is not THE one, we ARE one.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-disorders/narcissistic-personality-disorder.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Narcissistic Personality Disorder</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.thehotline.org/what-is-gaslighting/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">What is gaslighting?</span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.selfhelpservices.org.uk/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Self Help Mental Health Service</span></a></div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-31173510596429029822018-08-11T21:41:00.000+01:002018-08-11T21:41:44.342+01:00Tea in SummerIsn't it typically British to be still drinking tea in the height of summer? Especially when this year's summer has been borderline unbearable in terms of heat. But as any Brit, we are born with a third chromosome; the T chromosome.<script type="text/javascript">
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The kind and patient people from Adagio Tea sent me a massive variety of teas to try out and it's taken quite some time for me to get through these. </div>
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Pictured above is sadly not everything I was sent as a few have gone missing, and I suspect my boyfriend to be the culprit and has them in a black hole where I imagine he's put several of my clothes and our missing knives from the cutlery drawer - anyway I digress. </div>
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I have to say that the Earl Grey and Jasmine Pearls were my favourite teas; Earl Grey because it's one of my all time favourites and Jasmine Pearls because it reminds me of my childhood (and also the pearls look fun and they unravel when they brew lol)</div>
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I have to admit that there are a couple I've not tried yet and very reluctant too, and it's the dessert-y teas. I was sent a vanilla and chocolate chip to try and these just don't sound like my cup of tea (omg I didn't even plan on writing that pun but it's worked out perfectly). However, I shouldn't give sweet teas a miss because I do enjoy the mango they sent me. Who knows, I may even like it if it doesn't go missing in my boyfriend's black hole within the next few days.</div>
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Go check out the wonderful <a href="http://www.adagiotea.co.uk/" target="_blank">Adagio Teas</a> and support their wonderful <a href="http://www.adagiotea.co.uk/info/fair_trade.html" target="_blank">Roots Campaign</a> which helps the lives of each tea farmer they source from.</div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-85180018655545912392018-03-14T19:35:00.000+00:002018-03-14T19:39:40.295+00:00Why You Should Travel To EgyptIn October, I made the questionable (to some) decision to travel to Egypt for a holiday. It currently faces many stereotypes with regards to safety but speaking to my friend who lives in Cairo and doing some research led me to believe that it is still safe to travel to the majority of Egypt. The main area of concern was the Sinai Provence which is advised not to visit due to ISIS presence. <script type="text/javascript">
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However, I would highly recommend visiting Cairo and Luxor on your travels to Egypt if you ever have the opportunity to. Not only is the food incredible in Egypt but the fascinating history. We actually decided to visit Luxor first as I heard Cairo's busy streets may be a little too much for some. </div>
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In Luxor we enjoyed, boat rides in a fluke down the River Nile to pick bananas in Banana Island, visited Luxor Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, Karnak Temple, The Egyptian Museum, a balloon ride over the Valley of The Kings at dusk, drank countless cups of Egyptian tea and smoked every flavour of shisha.</div>
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Following this, we flew back north to Cairo to meet up with my friend and enjoy what the city had to offer. We sampled delicious foods, visited the pyramids of Giza, met up with my friend Menna, visited the Al-Azhar mosque then set off for a 3 day trek into the desert stopping off at a salt lake which is basically a delicious beach, camped on the English mountain, visited the Bahariya Oasis which has the most incredible natural hot springs, visited the Black Desert, Crystal Mountain, did some sand boarding, had lunch at Ain Khadra water spring and toured the White Desert.</div>
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And as always, the food was incredible and the meats were cooked so well. I love Egyptian cuisine and tried so many variations of the same dish. The flavours in Egypt are incredible and absolutely endless. </div>
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I would definitely recommend visiting Egypt to all my friends and readers, it's such an incredible place where you can learn so much about culture, people, politics and mannerisms. I would love to go back one day soon as I still feel Egypt has so much more to offer. </div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-32719719906913707082018-02-23T22:14:00.000+00:002018-02-23T22:16:15.621+00:00Dessert Mail | The Pudding Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ever had your dessert sent to you in the mail? No - me neither! But this is where <a href="http://www.thepuddingpost.com/" target="_blank">The Pudding Post</a> comes in. A little like Hello Fresh, The Pudding Post sends sweet treats for you to make at home for your enjoyment. I was sent the recipe and ingredients to make Oreo and Salted Caramel Chocolate Mousse which turned out delicious. You may even surprise yourself! (I thought my mousse would be slop...)<script type="text/javascript">
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The only thing I would change about this recipe is the instructions to make the caramel - it's quite easy to ruin caramel which I inevitably did (it turned into a surprisingly good alternative to concrete). However, I managed to make something similar to a Dime Bar!</div>
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I decided to make this in small jars instead of one large tray so I could gift and have for desserts (or multiple desserts in one sitting...)</div>
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I love doing fortnightly food projects but sometimes coming up with new recipes and projects is hard to do. Having a subscription service like The Pudding Post is brilliant because they come up with the recipes for you and send you the ingredients, and just the right amount too. I hate having to buy ingredients and having left over that I know I will never use - so having <a href="http://www.thepuddingpost.com/" target="_blank">The Pudding Post</a> means you minimise on food waste too. </div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-49699244848323339362018-01-22T22:24:00.000+00:002018-01-22T22:24:19.863+00:00Majorelle Blue | My Moroccan Adventure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Not too long ago, I had a lovely trip to Marrakech, Morocco with a friend and while our little adventure was only short, it was jam-packed and incredibly rewarding. My favourite type of holiday is one where you're really taken out of your comfort zone; one where you find yourself struggling to communicate with the locals and stay relatively hygienic.<script type="text/javascript">
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We stayed at a wonderful Airbnb called the Riad Puchka located close to Jemaa el-Fna which is the main square in the medina quarter/old city. </div>
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Be sure to visit Jemaa El-Fna and all the souks it has to offer, samples some local cuisine and enjoy the National Festival of Popular Arts if you happen to be around in the summer. </div>
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Why not try ATV quad biking for a bit of a rush or Jardin Majorelle for a bit of nature.</div>
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If you want to immerse yourself in the Moroccan culture, then I'd advise you book a tour of the Atlas Mountains and Ourika Valley where you'll visit Berber villages, learn how to make Berber whisky (don't worry it's only tea), go camel trekking, learn about Argan oil, have lunch in a river stream, climb to a waterfall and so much more! </div>
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If you're a fan of Moroccan cuisine (who isn't), then be prepared for a feast. Traditional Moroccan dishes include the obvious tagines, olives, couscous etc but also snails, cacti, orange juice, mint tea and pastries/bread.</div>
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Tips</h2>
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<ol>
<li>Ask your host to walk you to the square so you remember the route</li>
<li>Swot up on basic French and Arabic</li>
<li>Book tours in advance</li>
<li>Don't feel pressured by street vendors; if you speak calmly, you won't get stressed out</li>
<li>If someone tells you to walk by the side of the road, they're literally going to direct you to the tanneries</li>
<li>Be weary of women who do henna on your skin without properly asking - they'll of course charge you</li>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-45225527257907769732018-01-14T19:30:00.000+00:002018-01-14T19:30:02.964+00:00How To Come Off Antidepressants & The Mental Healthcare Crisis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When I was only 17 years old, I was prescribed an anti-depressant to help deal with my fleeting happiness. What doctors failed to notice or remotely care about was whether I had depression or was just depressed. Any child at 17 will often go through depression at various stages of maturity. I didn't consider myself mature enough for adult life until I was 24, so I was on strong Citalopram for about 7 years of my developing life, fluctuating in moods along with my dosage.<div>
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I was on Citalopram for a number of years then moved onto Mirtazapine for the remaining years when Citalopram stopped working. This should have been an indication that I should be taken off and possibly had a review on the possible damage it may have caused my body.</div>
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11 years later, I am no longer on any type of medication for depression.</div>
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<i>Holla.</i></div>
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<h2>
Therapy</h2>
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<div>
During those years, I'd been to counselling, CBT, counselling again, psychotherapy and CBT again. I had differing experiences with all of these but as a whole, found these to alleviate my worries so much more than a little pill ever did. </div>
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<div>
The first time I went for counselling was during college and while it did aid me, it was also these sessions that spring-boarded me towards that little pill in the first place. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was referred to CBT and after waiting 6 months, on my second session - I was told that I was already doing what the therapist was going to advise and was promptly discharged.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Yeah ok mate, I just waited half a year to see you and you tell me you can't help me. Sound.</i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
After this, I was referred to counselling in a local unit called Bickerstaffe House. This was incredible but it was also the point I realised counselling probably wasn't the answer to my specific problems. You see, there are different types of mental health services for different types of problems and counselling just wasn't right for me.</div>
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Kqzax4lcMcYo4nqYRuBwakKIHjTorRSdO8QOUHxuVV5LkhR_bBalw6bV3-JgihOw1rNLK41w-6sZqmuQu_mgBvZ5qak9HJMo1ttwPoVnpiH-ANTDeFb3t7lkYsfaSb96jHcGqNn4Bsw/s1600/photo-1488723302958-247a0b7a47e8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1050" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Kqzax4lcMcYo4nqYRuBwakKIHjTorRSdO8QOUHxuVV5LkhR_bBalw6bV3-JgihOw1rNLK41w-6sZqmuQu_mgBvZ5qak9HJMo1ttwPoVnpiH-ANTDeFb3t7lkYsfaSb96jHcGqNn4Bsw/s640/photo-1488723302958-247a0b7a47e8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
It was a number of years before I attempted psychotherapy which was much more suited to myself. However, these weren't offered via the NHS so I could not afford to keep this up - therefore this ended immediately after the initial session.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then luckily, I was referred to CBT with <a href="https://www.selfhelpservices.org.uk/" target="_blank">Self Help</a> at <a href="https://www.thebiglifegroup.com/big-life-centres/zion-centre/" target="_blank">The Zion Centre</a> in Manchester (which is by the way inspiring AF) which helped me realise something...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>I did not have depression. </b></div>
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<div>
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<h2>
Why did I get addicted?</h2>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I tried coming off several times myself but they never worked. Why? I was an insomniac. As a child, I used to be woken up for school by a a beep.</div>
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<div>
<i>A bloody beep.</i></div>
<div>
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<div>
So when I was prescribed a pill that meant I slept like a baby, I never wanted to come off. I didn't actually find the medication helped all that much in terms of mood.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRpzU5O8sHc7nDPfUFOLV51fLPwGmA7ISduAMpDEVaH1Rk33bZZUaVUWOW24Uv0ExmeaDsroOUErVn2NuEBIfBW5X39vBJEx38owdvlrPn2vv-krVvsZ6YlhOD5YnYpwXntfod9ISvZlE/s1600/photo-1422190441165-ec2956dc9ecc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="967" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRpzU5O8sHc7nDPfUFOLV51fLPwGmA7ISduAMpDEVaH1Rk33bZZUaVUWOW24Uv0ExmeaDsroOUErVn2NuEBIfBW5X39vBJEx38owdvlrPn2vv-krVvsZ6YlhOD5YnYpwXntfod9ISvZlE/s640/photo-1422190441165-ec2956dc9ecc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h2>
How To Come Off Medication</h2>
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<div>
I've attempted to come off several times but the lack of sleep meant I always gave in to the pill just so I'd have a good night's sleep finally.</div>
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<div>
The best way to come off is to ween yourself off - never go cold turkey because you go a bit cuckoo. </div>
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<div>
This is the order I committed to:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Full pill one day and half pill every other day</li>
<li>Half a pill every day</li>
<li>Half a pill every other day</li>
<li>Half a pill every few days I couldn't sleep</li>
<li><a href="https://www.biovea.net/uk/results.aspx?AG=melatonin&FiltersObject=%7B%22SortValue%22:%7B%7D,%22PageSize%22:%2212%22,%22CompareProducts%22:%5B%5D,%22Brands%22:%7B%7D,%22FormValues%22:%7B%7D,%22PriceRanges%22:%7B%7D,%22Categories%22:%5B%5D,%22objects%22:%5B%5D%7D" target="_blank">3mg melatonin tablets</a> when lack of sleep was unbearable</li>
<li>No pills motherf*ckerrrrrrr</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I didn't set a duration for each of these steps, I just progressed depending on how I felt. I'm sure a qualified doctor could have suggested a better routine but the conspiracy theorist in me thinks they want me on the meds because I'm pretty sure mental health problems brings a lot of money to the UK economy. </div>
<div>
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<h2>
Withdrawal Symptoms</h2>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Are you prepared to feel and act like a crack addict? Because this is when it begins. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel and boy does it feel glorious! </div>
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<div>
Diary of my withdrawal:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
14th June 2017 - Finally stopped taking antidepressants</div>
<div>
19th June 2017 - Emotional, cried about Grenfell Tower for 30 mins straight, insomnia begins</div>
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20th June 2017 - Emotional, lonely, heightened anxiety, depersonalisation (this was the scariest)</div>
<div>
21st June 2017 - Nausea, dizziness, stomach pain, shakes</div>
<div>
22nd June 2017 - Fever and sweats begin and heart palpitations </div>
<div>
23rd June 2017 - Lost appetite </div>
<div>
24th June 2017 - Excessive scratching and itching</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I am very lucky in that I had been on medication for 11 years but my symptoms only lasted the best part of a month. This is because your recovery will also depend on your metabolism and I'm very grateful to have a good/fast metabolism. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
It sounds horrendous and at times, it was but you have to focus on the outcome. Read more about antidepressant withdrawal here: <a href="http://addictionblog.org/support/antidepressant-withdrawal/" target="_blank">Antidepressants 101</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisEa21srGMFlQoJLBz3BnImmLzcitOWxyXPlSBi_O048WYW18H57GxZHRPjsK93jGuGS1R4x5qRSH-yPyssMjiTsW6YzDO7Eg3zMeutlVJC0aH5A8gIVAW3aRx-mekQB7UEFhEEOk1qgg/s1600/photo-1494178270175-e96de2971df9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="972" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisEa21srGMFlQoJLBz3BnImmLzcitOWxyXPlSBi_O048WYW18H57GxZHRPjsK93jGuGS1R4x5qRSH-yPyssMjiTsW6YzDO7Eg3zMeutlVJC0aH5A8gIVAW3aRx-mekQB7UEFhEEOk1qgg/s640/photo-1494178270175-e96de2971df9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
I think the NHS is doing such a great job with the little resources and funding they have from the Government. I think it's sad that they are struggling so much, yet there are politicians out there on an incomprehensible salary watching porn at work. Nah thanks, mate.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There needs to be more funding and mental health awareness; stop misdiagnosing and stop dishing out pills like they're old school Woolworths pick 'n' mix and offer alternative support and the right type of alternative support at that. Suggest something other than just counselling and improve the standards of these practices. Nobody wants to wait half a year for sought after therapy only to be told they can't be helped...</div>
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<div>
People are dying for the wealth of other people's pockets. Do something.</div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-72813690896453977042018-01-02T20:17:00.000+00:002018-01-02T20:17:28.135+00:00How To Stay Safe Walking Alone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7drtZ-fa3yoaxzvowMXKankQi8XDcFV-fr8LiESEl-bV_BOXgq8GwZ0QpYSJDWh3nmK98oFu6Fkg8OnltTivGP0JV50AKEMTlac-Bm-81-lxfR1iR6v42x6Vvo6Ae6KoGyRKVxNF1xnI/s1600/Companion+App+Rape+Sexual+Harassment+Abuse+Attack+Safety.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1190" data-original-width="1190" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7drtZ-fa3yoaxzvowMXKankQi8XDcFV-fr8LiESEl-bV_BOXgq8GwZ0QpYSJDWh3nmK98oFu6Fkg8OnltTivGP0JV50AKEMTlac-Bm-81-lxfR1iR6v42x6Vvo6Ae6KoGyRKVxNF1xnI/s640/Companion+App+Rape+Sexual+Harassment+Abuse+Attack+Safety.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now that it's darker outside, it's incredibly important to stay safe while on-foot. Unfortunately, general crime in England has increased dramatically according to the <a href="https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/bulletins/crimeinenglandandwales/june2017">ONS</a> seeing an increase in July onwards of 2017. There has been a sharp increase in knife crime and theft (both physical and online fraud).</div>
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Last year, after a lovely dinner with friends in my quiet hometown, I was grabbed from behind by a man while on my way to the train station. I am unsure whether he intended to harm me or was merely a perverted drunk but either way, I was absolutely terrified. He kept harassing me for a good while until I turned a corner and bumped into a group of young lads who I assume startled him off and he swiftly made way towards a different direction. From then, I ran to the train (in heels might I add) and called my friend straight away. </div>
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When I got to my destination, I was so scared - I called an Uber to take me to my front door which is typically a 3 minute walk away. It was after this, I decided to look into ways to safeguard myself and I found an app called '<a href="https://www.companionapp.io/">Companion</a>' and have used this on all my walks home. </div>
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The concept of the app is very simple yet invaluable. Before you set off home, you ask a friend if they'll be your 'companion'. This means that you assign them to track your journey home, they don't even need the app themselves. You set your route home and it works out how long you should take. If anything happens to you during your journey, an alert pops up on your phone and you have to select whether you're safe or not. It gives you a time limit to respond and when that time limit runs out, it assumes you are unsafe and calls the police. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3FSvYY63gbP7r4CIhIab_dQTVLi2WZS_yQnh6PmvuVj3_uzIiZS4SvyGKMiRuGQ1cOLvJLaPixiMPhePz689qJmX8h97HgLxuZwt-oOMN3Z2Kh8sFNpb2AU1FKp6yRUbfYUreBcLdfk/s1600/Companion+App+iPhone+Safety+Walking+Alone+Rape+Women.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3FSvYY63gbP7r4CIhIab_dQTVLi2WZS_yQnh6PmvuVj3_uzIiZS4SvyGKMiRuGQ1cOLvJLaPixiMPhePz689qJmX8h97HgLxuZwt-oOMN3Z2Kh8sFNpb2AU1FKp6yRUbfYUreBcLdfk/s640/Companion+App+iPhone+Safety+Walking+Alone+Rape+Women.PNG" width="358" /></a></div>
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For example, if the headphone jack is suddenly pulled out or the phone is dropped, the alert will appear. It will also track your speed and notice when you may be running (as I discovered accidentally and gave my bestie a heart attack). If you do not return home in time, it also alerts you and your companion.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivvHaT9xVXbGtNrOuxmZ0yq6OUy7-x9uYLjgPI2P6tU-ZKTEqbD0oQQXP6qxqa4JqEcySpk9l2l4a6SEXPnNEdehWHUvXMHomXnWy94q49hxBYBfWVc5tvzgo_TSryZhA0ILgHSX3g2xU/s1600/Companion+App+iPhone+Safety+Walking+Alone+Rape+Women+Alert+Text.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivvHaT9xVXbGtNrOuxmZ0yq6OUy7-x9uYLjgPI2P6tU-ZKTEqbD0oQQXP6qxqa4JqEcySpk9l2l4a6SEXPnNEdehWHUvXMHomXnWy94q49hxBYBfWVc5tvzgo_TSryZhA0ILgHSX3g2xU/s640/Companion+App+iPhone+Safety+Walking+Alone+Rape+Women+Alert+Text.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
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The thing I was most in-shock about was the fact that this happened in my quiet home town and during a very short distance to the station. I live in Manchester and I always thought that if anything happened to me, it'd be in a city. It just goes to show that you can never be too safe. </div>
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And if you ever need extra backup, you can also buy a spiky ring like I did or steal a staple remover from work.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwDwaXsos24K0c73RE39y4c6a3ydeYJUOaEGCeXcyBtiB0AhhlU0zgvK5HowNOApqqD6F_i2Hgf0zIKFt9BP_-3cVXVzjSwuvuzTdWDPWHf8OKmLxyZHSV4RT-665sUGGICPe71h_MlJI/s1600/Set+of+3+Ninja+Personal+Safety+Ring+Spike+Ring+Weapon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwDwaXsos24K0c73RE39y4c6a3ydeYJUOaEGCeXcyBtiB0AhhlU0zgvK5HowNOApqqD6F_i2Hgf0zIKFt9BP_-3cVXVzjSwuvuzTdWDPWHf8OKmLxyZHSV4RT-665sUGGICPe71h_MlJI/s320/Set+of+3+Ninja+Personal+Safety+Ring+Spike+Ring+Weapon.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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</script>TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-42979987339469977612017-12-28T12:35:00.000+00:002017-12-28T12:35:11.010+00:00Motherland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcGNrlEdJ8pl7r0XxqNjUnJrAeYnUPnNtRCQ_7bR3nZ1KeMg5Rsf5jBK41V48X3GvJGBCvghPPBO89fzi0SH5ejsIsB_nCgNnKVZcNG7BjZ3Dxb-8wlfY_wCWV9lDoJvg5KOwfecXqIQ/s1600/Hong+Kong+Streets+Neon+Signs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcGNrlEdJ8pl7r0XxqNjUnJrAeYnUPnNtRCQ_7bR3nZ1KeMg5Rsf5jBK41V48X3GvJGBCvghPPBO89fzi0SH5ejsIsB_nCgNnKVZcNG7BjZ3Dxb-8wlfY_wCWV9lDoJvg5KOwfecXqIQ/s640/Hong+Kong+Streets+Neon+Signs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I jest.</div>
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My motherland is actually Liverpool where I was created but in a bid to embrace my Chinese heritage more, I nipped over to Hong Kong for my cousin's wedding and boy was it an experience. Now I hear having a lavish wedding in Chinese culture is quite common but I couldn't help but feel like I was at a wedding of a celebrity. Five dress changes, a bag of gold and a 13 course meal later and I'm ready to hibernate.</div>
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Now until this visit, I had not been '<i>back</i>' since I was about 15 and prior to that just a tiny human being (which I guess I still am). So I jumped at the opportunity to explore! Apart from understanding a bit of Hakka (a now obsolete dialect), I know zero Chinese so I had to use my interpreter (also known as my cousin) to help my uncultured ass.</div>
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Amongst laughing at typical and quite innocent 'Engrish' and buying the new Toy Story Vans at an extortionate price just so I could have them before everyone else, I managed to do a bit of sightseeing. </div>
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Nan Lian Garden was a highlight; the contrast of absolute peace and serenity against the concrete city skyline of Hong Kong was quite spectacular to see. We managed to stop off for tea and cake in a restaurant under a waterfall and crossed over to see the Chi Lin Nunnery.</div>
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We also managed to get ourselves to the light show at the harbour and hop onto a Junk Boat for a tour across the river. </div>
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Now back to my roots...I managed to visit my grandad's old apartment in the city (now my uncle's) which I only remember from photos and smell (weird). We also managed to visit my mum's village on the border of Hong Kong and China which was really special to see. I've always been fascinated by the stories my mum used to tell me; I was especially intrigued by this cow she had as a pet and had to take up a mountain every day.</div>
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So back onto this cow right...we were eventually introduced to the mountain she had to take the cow up (but not the cow because RIP) and we paid our respects to our ancestors and family members who have now passed. Most families will have shrines upon the mountains that house the dead; we bring food because they're starving, paper gifts like shoes and fake money. They're all burnt so the spirits can receive them. We also bring food and goodies for those that guard the shrine then light fire crackers to ward of evil spirits and apparently give people (myself) a heart attack.</div>
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And as always, the best part - THE FOOD</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr84wqbXJkhDE8OcRTVf9sFTfdEOUQNkwjmOL50Ur0bPtdGZIhK7DGq9NQROqfrIqaZLleRJyNe69dimWmb786T1J_LFWJPmYl9JAvZlEvsOLDkAsab31AH2Vyu_whnV89kA8mc4guRv4/s1600/Chinese+Hong+Kong+Cuisine+Food+Bean+Cake+Pineapple+Rice+Beef+Dumplings_178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1600" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr84wqbXJkhDE8OcRTVf9sFTfdEOUQNkwjmOL50Ur0bPtdGZIhK7DGq9NQROqfrIqaZLleRJyNe69dimWmb786T1J_LFWJPmYl9JAvZlEvsOLDkAsab31AH2Vyu_whnV89kA8mc4guRv4/s640/Chinese+Hong+Kong+Cuisine+Food+Bean+Cake+Pineapple+Rice+Beef+Dumplings_178.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I think it's incredibly important to remember what generations before us had to go through to make our lives more comfortable and live-able. It always baffles me how my parents have come from such poverty and yet I'm sitting here in my old bedroom that I still have in my parents home, typing away on my Apple MacBook Air, about to drive home to Manchester in my cute little red Mini. And yet what did my mum have? </div>
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A bloody cow.</div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-48067317953633387322017-11-12T19:30:00.000+00:002017-11-19T17:02:53.189+00:00A Big Plus<center>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">UN Palace of Nations - Entry CHF12<br />
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I visited Geneva, Switzerland in February this year for a stunning four days over a long weekend. It was a spur of the moment booking (as all my bookings are) and was just the retreat I needed. Four days was the perfect amount of time for Geneva, if I had more time - I would have loved to travel out for a spot of skiing (not that I have ever skied in my life...)<script type="text/javascript">
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I would definitely recommend the Jet d'Eau/Lake Geneva, UN Palace of Nations, Broken Chair, Conservatory and Botanical Garden, Flower Clock/English Gardens, Plainpalais Flea Market, a thermal bath, Natural History Museum and take a quick trip to Mount Salève.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Botanical Gardens - Free</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral Saint Pierre - Free</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNpdkQcc9epM8h26dc0324dOo-Wfnuy72o295p60fXwaDZI9ryBUwgXcRp9Anyqu4grusNwXR5p1Ij7NIvm1vJG6TIm0r-zNq82wdMyiwy2f94whRg0Mz015YnxZYinjFg1Exff0dvUEg/s1600/Chapel+of+The+Maccabees+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNpdkQcc9epM8h26dc0324dOo-Wfnuy72o295p60fXwaDZI9ryBUwgXcRp9Anyqu4grusNwXR5p1Ij7NIvm1vJG6TIm0r-zNq82wdMyiwy2f94whRg0Mz015YnxZYinjFg1Exff0dvUEg/s640/Chapel+of+The+Maccabees+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chapel of the Maccabees (not the band) - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_9c_8oYcnm5YzVaA9r_zQUpxpcAKW1A7rqGS5uSN2nbhddpfIbDu1urTbAF6jJL2WIWb4M7j6HfDssDW_sDZdbuKIV3i9h5pQymQdEc5CnT5pIp2wEa_f0HKY5UsnMl7bRV2wEzzGJ-g/s1600/Jet+d%2527Eau+Water+Jet+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_9c_8oYcnm5YzVaA9r_zQUpxpcAKW1A7rqGS5uSN2nbhddpfIbDu1urTbAF6jJL2WIWb4M7j6HfDssDW_sDZdbuKIV3i9h5pQymQdEc5CnT5pIp2wEa_f0HKY5UsnMl7bRV2wEzzGJ-g/s640/Jet+d%2527Eau+Water+Jet+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jet d'Eau Water Jet - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8UHXs1HKzQ_Rz95uKsOLl6MJBjT5EdS-nhAuqQ1-y2lSwhDVcc1uSCSFkadl7A-0O6y9q3ROzzUcVGzZ6C8p1L9N3F9o_AKh6kCDXJiT8hDArGu5FERfbfkpMI7BmsAN_km6Es0nLKE/s1600/Natural+History+Museum+Geneva+Switzerland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8UHXs1HKzQ_Rz95uKsOLl6MJBjT5EdS-nhAuqQ1-y2lSwhDVcc1uSCSFkadl7A-0O6y9q3ROzzUcVGzZ6C8p1L9N3F9o_AKh6kCDXJiT8hDArGu5FERfbfkpMI7BmsAN_km6Es0nLKE/s640/Natural+History+Museum+Geneva+Switzerland.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural History Museum - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixE0rZjKNkniWvq1k4bepHGRKPeGNEGssfCQeXh2NDApTSPsM7TaWAV3F4qX3diQpz0eNRD-NlWCJ6uLWwrCr6YsyvM0F713UmLE-mhS3x-6iICiUNBwqp_B47piEcP97P4X9mZ9g63l0/s1600/Broken+Chair+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixE0rZjKNkniWvq1k4bepHGRKPeGNEGssfCQeXh2NDApTSPsM7TaWAV3F4qX3diQpz0eNRD-NlWCJ6uLWwrCr6YsyvM0F713UmLE-mhS3x-6iICiUNBwqp_B47piEcP97P4X9mZ9g63l0/s640/Broken+Chair+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Broken Chair - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQdpZGWqi84n0Hj4n7hJO0YQxWGl7nl0RZ9xhut5hvtozDBlncX5PywXIlV65gix2FdBmWw8F0HRZyqV7ddy4wglX_aD1ANBHRpIh5Fxs5AXFNtHlG3Hi00LDUFA1lonkLzlqjbdyvOU/s1600/Parc+Des+Bastions+Geneva+Switzerland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQdpZGWqi84n0Hj4n7hJO0YQxWGl7nl0RZ9xhut5hvtozDBlncX5PywXIlV65gix2FdBmWw8F0HRZyqV7ddy4wglX_aD1ANBHRpIh5Fxs5AXFNtHlG3Hi00LDUFA1lonkLzlqjbdyvOU/s640/Parc+Des+Bastions+Geneva+Switzerland.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parc Des Bastions - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8deMJ2noeG4aHA28hbJLnbpkLUOEFmKFpYPKe8Tmvb7n4ndCLDr-8M69f1amuCM0dARH3PlS19mEufO44p4OstieeFQ91Yzv6FHo_mGuuEkDPUSGxNiZDFBhG2EyIRc4bchVyZnqZwA/s1600/Reformation+Wall+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8deMJ2noeG4aHA28hbJLnbpkLUOEFmKFpYPKe8Tmvb7n4ndCLDr-8M69f1amuCM0dARH3PlS19mEufO44p4OstieeFQ91Yzv6FHo_mGuuEkDPUSGxNiZDFBhG2EyIRc4bchVyZnqZwA/s640/Reformation+Wall+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reformation Wall - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcst7pNa33ud1cTCHxwYuJ251Nr0AxgH2uUXO-csWKiOkeE_TivLDRrQVqQ4Dse0joS6cja2H_e-2M8I83KkujezxQqmSbFyETNhP4ADGdrsYcI2OTm9U7QxgfF_cha11IxWdCHo9h3DI/s1600/Plainpalais+Flea+Market+Geneva+Switzerland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcst7pNa33ud1cTCHxwYuJ251Nr0AxgH2uUXO-csWKiOkeE_TivLDRrQVqQ4Dse0joS6cja2H_e-2M8I83KkujezxQqmSbFyETNhP4ADGdrsYcI2OTm9U7QxgfF_cha11IxWdCHo9h3DI/s640/Plainpalais+Flea+Market+Geneva+Switzerland.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plainpalais Flea Market - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZM0B4pa3B3RiQ3GeFCLO9-EOFXBm3eTiEf3W9JBP8rYvhmg7TWM2_tHNVmNTmUpmlsLzNXutdLubYO2ZQJoGE4R_2aOSHk1bJMmb2MXuqGjDy9ARQBZyJT2zR01IVsetBFRsyioylQM/s1600/19989741_10159161158895089_3072954431882400736_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZM0B4pa3B3RiQ3GeFCLO9-EOFXBm3eTiEf3W9JBP8rYvhmg7TWM2_tHNVmNTmUpmlsLzNXutdLubYO2ZQJoGE4R_2aOSHk1bJMmb2MXuqGjDy9ARQBZyJT2zR01IVsetBFRsyioylQM/s640/19989741_10159161158895089_3072954431882400736_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this, can you imagine drinking a bottle of red wine at a car boot in England? We'd get banned...</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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One thing I would definitely recommend is to hop on a tram then bus to Mont Salève which is technically France but whatever. The bus ride will take you through picturesque villages and towns and drop you off at a stop near the Salève Mountain cable car. Walk uphill through the sweet little village and you'll find yourself queuing for a cable car ride that will take you up to see an incredible and breathtaking view of The Alps.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0SiWRfkplq3EKH0DV4Eu6hxPM_MkspFi-HbxFsdAb4JM1DGbYD-Meg6RWd_Q4r-IE2NRXigR78dRgOBacfreeu10fA5XeMLVkVrLD-az0-kWpoERb5n873vOyejidqNbogYj6VHAkTtY/s1600/Mont+Saleve+Mountain+Cable+Car+Apls+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0SiWRfkplq3EKH0DV4Eu6hxPM_MkspFi-HbxFsdAb4JM1DGbYD-Meg6RWd_Q4r-IE2NRXigR78dRgOBacfreeu10fA5XeMLVkVrLD-az0-kWpoERb5n873vOyejidqNbogYj6VHAkTtY/s640/Mont+Saleve+Mountain+Cable+Car+Apls+Switzerland+Geneva.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mont Salève</td></tr>
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Just some things to note about Geneva; it is "expensive" in the way that it's pretty much similar in cost as England. Don't buy a Geneva pass as you can get transport cards from almost any accommodation and the local supermarket is called Migros.</div>
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Due to the alpine area of Switzerland, the country is a haven for crystals and rocks so if you're a collector like myself, stop by the Plainpalais Flea Market and pick up some unique crystals. They're also available in a lot of shops and also the Natural History Museum. </div>
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Now let's talk about Evian water; it's actually sourced from Lake Geneva and so the tap water is basically just Evian water - drink to your heart's desire! I discovered this by accident when I realised I just swallowed the tap water. But it tasted so good, I had to Google it.<br />
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Now the picture you're all waiting for...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOOTOrup_yvu036j96aSRLF_IlRKUpOOY_pOEPw4p26tTavmXsP4CQMQUBxU1m_WlC-TUxPUv0MXz-k_G5uTySypB66rnQpwW3i60L17PY7eSJdBK6JR-Z0_uhuL6vt-GxkYdHZ-BHWo/s1600/Switzerland+Swiss+Food+Cuisine+Geneva_53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1600" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOOTOrup_yvu036j96aSRLF_IlRKUpOOY_pOEPw4p26tTavmXsP4CQMQUBxU1m_WlC-TUxPUv0MXz-k_G5uTySypB66rnQpwW3i60L17PY7eSJdBK6JR-Z0_uhuL6vt-GxkYdHZ-BHWo/s640/Switzerland+Swiss+Food+Cuisine+Geneva_53.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Get yourself some chocolate, cheese, Birchermuesli, toasted almonds (they are to die for) and definitely try to find some fondue and raclette.<br />
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This trip was a neat little break for me and while the culture wasn't entirely different, I found myself learning a lot about this city and met some very interesting people. One woman I met gave off such positive vibes, it healed me instantly and put a lot of my anxiety at ease. </div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-83231684144673164442017-10-30T15:45:00.000+00:002017-10-30T15:59:03.930+00:00My flight cost less than a waffle...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJnUzxK_yrcJa9FBwfroCHm3SYJ4vPsbOF-BHkLl4VYxD20dn1p3Llh5SrIYULOJMM5HUtTvweXhfhtvWey1axDlr7zvmAIH3pTOyljenooFzrEm3aWlhv3R7Yo0F6_XYEIhoyUAxVnAM/s1600/18951076_10158945770925089_1824569624697851381_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJnUzxK_yrcJa9FBwfroCHm3SYJ4vPsbOF-BHkLl4VYxD20dn1p3Llh5SrIYULOJMM5HUtTvweXhfhtvWey1axDlr7zvmAIH3pTOyljenooFzrEm3aWlhv3R7Yo0F6_XYEIhoyUAxVnAM/s640/18951076_10158945770925089_1824569624697851381_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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What do you do when Ryanair have a £2 sale and it's about to end in 8 minutes? You book a spontaenous week's holiday to Belgium obviously...<script type="text/javascript">
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I've never been that person to plan a holiday way in advance, never have been and never will be. My life is spontaneous, you can't always plan things and sometimes it's better not to plan things.</div>
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The flight was £2.04 each way to Brussels Charleroi in November so £4.04 in total, which ended up being less than what I paid for a waffle and little did I know, it would change my life...</div>
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I started off in Brussels and stayed at a train-themed hostel aptly named the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g188644-d6929972-Reviews-Train_Hostel-Brussels.html">Train Hostel</a> in Schaerbeek which is possibly one of the best hostels I've ever stayed in. It was ridiculously clean, well-equipped and I met some lifelong friends here too on a holiday I will never forget. Schaerbeek reminded me a lot like San Francisco which its sharp and crisp architecture and hills.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_AQ85-vt3H1q8bN541dIY0uXO8WJhR4accf7aX2eb75Y3ZMctqb1tFeHf6YgIignuGZrnEEq-NnqdN61Bjl0DZuLlA6yqkoVSLpnn9_0Eig_1frOPPeFRGYbGYF4mhCazhEyGl1d89-o/s1600/18920617_10158945767825089_6400591001636966931_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="948" data-original-width="960" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_AQ85-vt3H1q8bN541dIY0uXO8WJhR4accf7aX2eb75Y3ZMctqb1tFeHf6YgIignuGZrnEEq-NnqdN61Bjl0DZuLlA6yqkoVSLpnn9_0Eig_1frOPPeFRGYbGYF4mhCazhEyGl1d89-o/s640/18920617_10158945767825089_6400591001636966931_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I met a lovely group of people in my dorm, all girls and have kept in very close contact with three of them. One is a nut-job from Australia (the only type of Aussie), another was a sweet girl from Italy who is the least Italian Italian I have ever met and lastly, my sassy and incredibly supportive Egyptian beauty. The Aussie and Italian ended up moving to the UK and now we're taking turns to hold weekends for one another. </div>
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We got into a lot of mischief and fun in Brussels, we went on walking tours, did a bit of shopping, watched the Christmas Market opening, visited the Atomium, the Rene Magritte museum and ate loads of waffles, frites and moules. I would definitely recommend the Atomium and the Rene Magritte museum, and a walking tour is essential.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3epUg1_hDynvLyyNUPGhCC55t6tKBSLlEwKVhpfmIjhHF7F_0kW3JKWLek_gpvhpLJoCZ09JI0WfWihen6x7-qxoijxrySVmhq3zjWOlE-F6ZYPy8xVx-atPmTDWab2hY5U_eOCJFO1o/s1600/18951491_10158945771215089_2172885326626830711_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3epUg1_hDynvLyyNUPGhCC55t6tKBSLlEwKVhpfmIjhHF7F_0kW3JKWLek_gpvhpLJoCZ09JI0WfWihen6x7-qxoijxrySVmhq3zjWOlE-F6ZYPy8xVx-atPmTDWab2hY5U_eOCJFO1o/s640/18951491_10158945771215089_2172885326626830711_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atomium - Paid</td></tr>
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Transport is super easy, but if you're stuck - just use Google Maps.</div>
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Considering there hadn't long been a terrorist attack, it was so special to see everybody rise above the terror.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMSUZFZJI2xTJgCjt8rFSY3kJAGL57FurRoBZBSMFEQzlwXmUVms60xpd1qEAUk9T8tCxDAGHpLGbid3as89cy0D_PtWJwPRYZzuexg0Kj8U2jEeDC0oyqpRxc8z46S6HmxH1ql9G2zqc/s1600/19029483_10158945790365089_7676881639049792877_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMSUZFZJI2xTJgCjt8rFSY3kJAGL57FurRoBZBSMFEQzlwXmUVms60xpd1qEAUk9T8tCxDAGHpLGbid3as89cy0D_PtWJwPRYZzuexg0Kj8U2jEeDC0oyqpRxc8z46S6HmxH1ql9G2zqc/s640/19029483_10158945790365089_7676881639049792877_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinquantenaire - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0eespWZ14mv6mkRUAJ1HndRi02-gFgmKsf7jL-7KDcZzqtrNdlAGPWFoIzv25hSFM3anaqVDC6vWBNIIa3ckjwqrkCK8HUySBrdKEEuXM6JdvwTwr1OiONHQ2dKqe4Ku5We0IiKemMW8/s1600/18922180_10158945769345089_1950241842301408192_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0eespWZ14mv6mkRUAJ1HndRi02-gFgmKsf7jL-7KDcZzqtrNdlAGPWFoIzv25hSFM3anaqVDC6vWBNIIa3ckjwqrkCK8HUySBrdKEEuXM6JdvwTwr1OiONHQ2dKqe4Ku5We0IiKemMW8/s640/18922180_10158945769345089_1950241842301408192_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Place Grote Markt - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivbQyiKj0SRddIxnPkoHm3mf53kglsDtXz4mSKhgEM4bBUSiMFXNOfhAHMqLdgCCBBJnFjCMhH4EfyYo3bC0-I227aR0az5vzx4jQ1LRICArTPdoFf69v7Oez9f4kK4j_I5Oc9NNufT4c/s1600/Pis_250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="1600" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivbQyiKj0SRddIxnPkoHm3mf53kglsDtXz4mSKhgEM4bBUSiMFXNOfhAHMqLdgCCBBJnFjCMhH4EfyYo3bC0-I227aR0az5vzx4jQ1LRICArTPdoFf69v7Oez9f4kK4j_I5Oc9NNufT4c/s640/Pis_250.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mannequin, Jeanneke and Zinneke Pis - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61NP42KpZKzRAMsMgFEAs33N3znXT-JEPddzOMxL0LovtTASR1TOaPtKVYDDAJtSUHMmKA211Uh5phdVlQ5Bxh03rROlTwgfeYvz-E83AtCxSnK1WiZImKM27qCNbufUd8Hjs5ooCH-w/s1600/18920462_10158945770420089_6300935335458791243_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61NP42KpZKzRAMsMgFEAs33N3znXT-JEPddzOMxL0LovtTASR1TOaPtKVYDDAJtSUHMmKA211Uh5phdVlQ5Bxh03rROlTwgfeYvz-E83AtCxSnK1WiZImKM27qCNbufUd8Hjs5ooCH-w/s640/18920462_10158945770420089_6300935335458791243_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3So9nHXCaBcZxHKeM7wwvt1uRxCdJ8hqPKnt1bpE6ZnU9oYZ51MHFrdjrqU4QCuGyuz_GaqSTrIMcDuiygjDzaGiV-JSRItUDSw2Mygssmj_SZeUdWpAH0CoKTlUY-6GYFljPHrfaBZg/s1600/18920277_10158945790135089_8551225265750806592_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3So9nHXCaBcZxHKeM7wwvt1uRxCdJ8hqPKnt1bpE6ZnU9oYZ51MHFrdjrqU4QCuGyuz_GaqSTrIMcDuiygjDzaGiV-JSRItUDSw2Mygssmj_SZeUdWpAH0CoKTlUY-6GYFljPHrfaBZg/s640/18920277_10158945790135089_8551225265750806592_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Museum of Rene Magritte - Paid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9BfSPLOFNvbjmzKuns8Je9qLXVmCS0K4HdJ3nqhn-pH2z25sau6QimDWZyYivi79E5tPy4iwWbaUXe2O4QuhlOj-XGvA_5GqN33HbBOoB4sUI9YoQF4bcylXVYpM0caAzrsFhBcuvEkk/s1600/18951132_10158945788665089_376897253037481083_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9BfSPLOFNvbjmzKuns8Je9qLXVmCS0K4HdJ3nqhn-pH2z25sau6QimDWZyYivi79E5tPy4iwWbaUXe2O4QuhlOj-XGvA_5GqN33HbBOoB4sUI9YoQF4bcylXVYpM0caAzrsFhBcuvEkk/s640/18951132_10158945788665089_376897253037481083_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Place du Jeu de Balle (market) - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7z3_5Qxe1yGLlMHAPn72pJhibMAVMsO_EEt2L_W0ZUDrEUqDiJrscnf26Sl1MVCVo-jza9BdXHwaJHK6Y5fHElfHdOfTH5mjS3A1tEeHa1rHgyqUcpxbl00OWcnDPOwFbK6OLVu8ZNbM/s1600/18813306_10158945772160089_4240372085042861383_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7z3_5Qxe1yGLlMHAPn72pJhibMAVMsO_EEt2L_W0ZUDrEUqDiJrscnf26Sl1MVCVo-jza9BdXHwaJHK6Y5fHElfHdOfTH5mjS3A1tEeHa1rHgyqUcpxbl00OWcnDPOwFbK6OLVu8ZNbM/s640/18813306_10158945772160089_4240372085042861383_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Le Botanique - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBNAxOmMDFuKV42MUBzQIMEoUy9bq1XfTQWs0v-qqh3Eo3wenfte7zecKTWCFE1IvuuC7mRcUgs2Ws-v_A5JGFxiJ35RmOYabbwO14gtGE0vzSJzG_Gcwf62J7RCz2_0EDaLV3VD5VlM/s1600/18920454_10158945770480089_2351069402319711779_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBNAxOmMDFuKV42MUBzQIMEoUy9bq1XfTQWs0v-qqh3Eo3wenfte7zecKTWCFE1IvuuC7mRcUgs2Ws-v_A5JGFxiJ35RmOYabbwO14gtGE0vzSJzG_Gcwf62J7RCz2_0EDaLV3VD5VlM/s640/18920454_10158945770480089_2351069402319711779_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Royal Palace - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJxQaIkwPqImsr9-DJgSYHfISiEG1XkuT4L9UiJt1uF3IGMbJpG6b0fdDDejmTHEa-265fuHCPCmRAHYK32xRUlsuNlAUnlNO-iUHI1sopmHaeaFHp8mMjMdSqUT7hYDk-k2zHnfFk-g/s1600/19030370_10158945790265089_7239840658743216106_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJxQaIkwPqImsr9-DJgSYHfISiEG1XkuT4L9UiJt1uF3IGMbJpG6b0fdDDejmTHEa-265fuHCPCmRAHYK32xRUlsuNlAUnlNO-iUHI1sopmHaeaFHp8mMjMdSqUT7hYDk-k2zHnfFk-g/s640/19030370_10158945790265089_7239840658743216106_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">EU Quarter - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5e4YS_Ma5a2_tXofYafzLB0v4qCBTlSRpmJxuRbCussjTDdaouU3BgOr7DkcOfpjLhx2IfXwxQVoVY2sS3MhVBPKLdYkbla27qm3YU1VmnKAal9qlPSCenJpUEez8vEl2njd2XH6NPA/s1600/18921707_10158945786780089_4855059112977198035_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik5e4YS_Ma5a2_tXofYafzLB0v4qCBTlSRpmJxuRbCussjTDdaouU3BgOr7DkcOfpjLhx2IfXwxQVoVY2sS3MhVBPKLdYkbla27qm3YU1VmnKAal9qlPSCenJpUEez8vEl2njd2XH6NPA/s640/18921707_10158945786780089_4855059112977198035_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opening of the Christmas Markets - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<div>
As my well travelled father had previously lived in Belgium (get in, dad) I made a conscious effort to visit Antwerpen too to see the city he lived in. Bruxelles was very commercial but Antwerpen was much more quirky... Antwerp is just an hour on the train and well worth the visit.</div>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrQpBrp3wwGnb_tCWz4CLrzfDqm7_yFZWhhRLG1pqw-C1fDPDBuMvp_vbiMnZb1YPOXHWEDOG0V0m9js9O7q7zF4ZgM5oQhuAL_LIKULDi85i-rH7zc_xQwxi6N60vKoVayuNgaH4HFUU/s1600/19029503_10158945790870089_2655998356372311660_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrQpBrp3wwGnb_tCWz4CLrzfDqm7_yFZWhhRLG1pqw-C1fDPDBuMvp_vbiMnZb1YPOXHWEDOG0V0m9js9O7q7zF4ZgM5oQhuAL_LIKULDi85i-rH7zc_xQwxi6N60vKoVayuNgaH4HFUU/s640/19029503_10158945790870089_2655998356372311660_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral of Our Lady - Free</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOkrrDTBG__hDPXAIIO22qhgF6mFpnPx9E1rpsU1VXJ1A-qonnGeO2k71mXUB5a0n8iqVc8JuaRtrRRQ-ydy2NxQwZKPd17TmseDUgJ_f6NL3cDy-kFp8wLJNKdHq1rXQmaS6d2h3HuFU/s1600/18920618_10158945803690089_6011778032361278430_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOkrrDTBG__hDPXAIIO22qhgF6mFpnPx9E1rpsU1VXJ1A-qonnGeO2k71mXUB5a0n8iqVc8JuaRtrRRQ-ydy2NxQwZKPd17TmseDUgJ_f6NL3cDy-kFp8wLJNKdHq1rXQmaS6d2h3HuFU/s640/18920618_10158945803690089_6011778032361278430_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modemuseum (Momu) - Paid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4h5y7ba-516SB9l-bpx2YGeri7TxEiO7aWIrdd5mhtsD0_Amu-NdffrrkyTRh3wN6heBXq-KJdLDAgnGqBRaJfg4b0NFgLVEhqCHSt7q_OJyK8MI1z7KE4tlUKMxIqOP91XFJMl-LzNo/s1600/18893299_10158945826045089_490445018465014746_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4h5y7ba-516SB9l-bpx2YGeri7TxEiO7aWIrdd5mhtsD0_Amu-NdffrrkyTRh3wN6heBXq-KJdLDAgnGqBRaJfg4b0NFgLVEhqCHSt7q_OJyK8MI1z7KE4tlUKMxIqOP91XFJMl-LzNo/s640/18893299_10158945826045089_490445018465014746_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plantin Moretus Museum - Paid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7POLqmQ_VHgVR0bl1IqGLwALQ6XwxbH5pukJ3u9yENtZPVqS8t7HX0sifQwNXWHZYL_2Yr80E8xsGs0EsWT-Pd1BiLCNNirVkg2JrEHeFuzvVlEFLOyL6RAGfT6xjFMji0I0kyr1a22Y/s1600/19059075_10158945800615089_22191447745772137_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7POLqmQ_VHgVR0bl1IqGLwALQ6XwxbH5pukJ3u9yENtZPVqS8t7HX0sifQwNXWHZYL_2Yr80E8xsGs0EsWT-Pd1BiLCNNirVkg2JrEHeFuzvVlEFLOyL6RAGfT6xjFMji0I0kyr1a22Y/s640/19059075_10158945800615089_22191447745772137_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mas - Paid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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And last but not least, feast your eyes on the Belgian food we had, from waffles and frites to Belgian chocolate and moules. I am very adventurous when it comes to food, I love trying new things so when I visit a new country, I always write a list of everything I want to eat, just as much as things I want to do in the city.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_tCZ-zmAtT7mQIU-imhBu1lr2XtRJO6nKYubAKKNAzYwfPLwSrCX_DDCrUjMioiZi9CQ0aX5UB1L1gTW0yEaVCeG9Thm1H18JicrDYqgoa6GUQG_dMNn7UAFdOgz7bjIGEkfeqkYcuZw/s1600/Belgian+Food_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1600" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_tCZ-zmAtT7mQIU-imhBu1lr2XtRJO6nKYubAKKNAzYwfPLwSrCX_DDCrUjMioiZi9CQ0aX5UB1L1gTW0yEaVCeG9Thm1H18JicrDYqgoa6GUQG_dMNn7UAFdOgz7bjIGEkfeqkYcuZw/s640/Belgian+Food_7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I would never have considered Belgium as a holiday destination and purely went because of the Ryanair sale which I'm grateful for because it's by far one of the most enjoyable holiday's I've had and I've made three new amazing friends. I see both the non-Italian Italian and the nut job Aussie every now and then, and recently went to Egypt and has a sweet little reunion with my Egyptian beaut.<br />
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Also side note, the boys in Belgium are fiiiiiiiiine.</div>
TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-62445443115244517392017-10-30T13:42:00.000+00:002017-10-30T13:42:27.643+00:00Fits To A Tea | The True Tea Club<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIBuGwap5Y4TzgGLdETG5consv3Ih5RbSBeQLb55PksQKj2AgzYz-iRYiXr03_l4kfbCwNPtQhoECZN17MNTMq3w9SQnRS7hfr9UaRDGsjSC_cHfb4xNMQ_8ntjW3PVOHVFRHaf_2jKg/s1600/1-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIBuGwap5Y4TzgGLdETG5consv3Ih5RbSBeQLb55PksQKj2AgzYz-iRYiXr03_l4kfbCwNPtQhoECZN17MNTMq3w9SQnRS7hfr9UaRDGsjSC_cHfb4xNMQ_8ntjW3PVOHVFRHaf_2jKg/s640/1-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have always been a big tea drinker, but not necessarily an adventurous tea drinker. The standard was always English Breakfast, can't go wrong with English Breakfast. I have previously ventured out and very much enjoy Green Tea, but other than that - I've not have the best experiences with new teas. The worst being Russian Caravan tea which funnily enough to me, tasted like a Russian caravan...(not sure why I was surprised)<div>
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The lovely people at <a href="https://trueteacompany.co.uk/">The True Tea Club</a> sent me over a new selection to try and I'm glad to add Earl Grey onto my list of beloved teas. I was sent Mighty Mango, Earl Grey, Rainbow Chaser and Vanilla Cupcake. All of which I enjoyed apart from the Vanilla Cupcake, this I found way to weird for my basic tea palette. And the Earl Grey being my favourite of the bunch. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaSyTUXmvcT0KVO8qgENLMX8JyP0WTutB8UOiPpj2aW6GUBlqH3SGtbpZHKI8G6dyvTlNYSZQiW41x9kg0PpijkzEtuFYmnYeZFzWz50BZBV1TfOghVc4MWnZyn6clRUC3U0kItTWN0tw/s1600/4-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaSyTUXmvcT0KVO8qgENLMX8JyP0WTutB8UOiPpj2aW6GUBlqH3SGtbpZHKI8G6dyvTlNYSZQiW41x9kg0PpijkzEtuFYmnYeZFzWz50BZBV1TfOghVc4MWnZyn6clRUC3U0kItTWN0tw/s1600/4-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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You can see here that I decided to use my strainer, this is because although I found the reusable drawstring tea bags a handy little extra, it didn't infuse all that well. I found my teas were stronger with the use of my steel tea leaf strainer. </div>
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This subscription is perfect for that little pick me up or as a gift this Christmas for any tea lover. Now that it's getting colder, it's ideal for cosy nights and Netflix binges. Tea has a very calming affect on people, it's soothing and de-stressing. In our hectic everyday lives, we need to find more time for a nice brew and some time out.</div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-32221652330956223702017-10-28T21:00:00.000+01:002017-10-28T21:00:49.431+01:00Literachore No More<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've always tried convincing myself that I would read more because it would help mould me into a more rounded and intelligent person. Did this plan ever come to fruition? Not until now.<script type="text/javascript">
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I have an overactive imagination; think of a kid on e-numbers who is afraid of the dark. A book has to be terribly engrossing to impress me which is often why I only end up reading wellbeing books or historical literature. I found Silver Linings Playbook awfully mundane and the film even worse... I found reading a chore because of this.</div>
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The lovely people at Fernweh Fiction contacted me about a new subscription box called The Travelling Reader. The name wasn't enticing enough as I already knew I had issues with books, however - when the concept was described to me, I found it utterly magical. </div>
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The idea behind it is that every month, you are sent a piece of literature to read and goodies surrounding where that book is based. What a 'novel' idea (badum-chhhh)...</div>
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I was sent The Moon Field which in short, is about how war changes a man. Now I'm not a big fan of novels about war, nor am I films but there was a certain innocence and vulnerability to this book that I <i>was</i> actually a fan of. </div>
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The book was set in Keswick, Cumbria and included quaint little extras such as a white musk soap, postcards, chocolate, bath bombs, colouring pencils and a metal charm bookmark.</div>
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Society has it these days where we are all just glued to our phones, checking and re-checking our social status. Go check out <a href="https://www.thetravellingreader.com/">The Travelling Reader over at Fenweh Fiction</a> and get lost in a book even just for a few hours. You owe it to your soul.</div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-25867478500176275282017-08-01T13:53:00.000+01:002017-08-04T13:33:54.999+01:00Zaful Wishlist // Burning Man 2017<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://gi.gw-ec.com/product/external-link/related-longtail?longtail=white%20dress&production_line_id=2&lang_code=en&website_id=45" target="_blank">Zaful</a> Wishlist // Burning Man 2017</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRxb0a8LuVqK88t8P3kL7HYTMflPbJRgMBPb1VHG-iUIRiiMdZaTf-8P2G7WRsJhMdepckvdJsLSGhAK1CkBLhtP8UELSQQWQVhXspCvn8vhDMeGmt1NPsYnuu1pAD4Zq15EarEBo1GQ/s1600/ZAFUL+WISHLIST.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="602" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRxb0a8LuVqK88t8P3kL7HYTMflPbJRgMBPb1VHG-iUIRiiMdZaTf-8P2G7WRsJhMdepckvdJsLSGhAK1CkBLhtP8UELSQQWQVhXspCvn8vhDMeGmt1NPsYnuu1pAD4Zq15EarEBo1GQ/s640/ZAFUL+WISHLIST.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I recently discovered <a href="http://www.zaful.com/?lkid=109225">Zaful.com</a> and had been taken back by the amount of affordable and fashion-forward pieces they had. Whether you need a <a href="http://www.zaful.com/s/midi-dress/?lkid=109225">midi dress</a> or swimwear, they have it all and there's always a sale on too which is a bonus.</div>
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It is with great sadness that I announce I will not be attending Burning Man this year, although I was awarded a ticket. Needless to say, throughout the month(s) of August/September, I will mainly spend my time crying (about the fact I'm not there) and my Burning Man chummy and I will be embarking on our own private Burning Man ceremony to celebrate the memories made at Black Rock City in 2016. For those of you who are attending, check out my Burning Man 2017 wishlist below for outfit inspiration for this year's theme 'Radical Ritual'.<br />
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<a href="http://www.zaful.com/sheer-lace-lingeries-teddy-bodysuit-p_282045.html?lkid=109225">Teddy Bodysuit</a> / <a href="http://www.zaful.com/alloy-hollow-out-body-chain-p_199297.html?lkid=109225">Hollow Body Chain</a> / <a href="http://www.zaful.com/long-feathers-tassel-belt-p_211504.html?lkid=109225">Feather Tassel Belt</a> / <a href="http://www.zaful.com/star-geometric-frame-mirror-reflective-sunglasses-p_300238.html?lkid=109225">Geometric Reflective Sunglasses</a> / <a href="http://www.zaful.com/stylish-front-lace-up-and-chunky-heel-design-knee-high-boots-for-women-p_301602.html?lkid=109225">Chunky Heel Knee High Boots</a> / <a href="http://www.zaful.com/hooded-velvet-long-coat-p_226624.html?lkid=109225">Hooded Velvet Coat</a></div>
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Want to be the more fancy in this summer? Just do it!
Discover our newest summer arrivals!
Surprise code: <b><span style="color: red;">ZFEN</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.zaful.com/promotion-fancy-summer-looks-special-597.html?lkid=109225"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="986" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFpHV4Vrfs7di1oDyNdgipl1yw5NJ8IyJNXrnqPqJiB6t3Ykj1NqSrUAWCKcL795IT4-PFzDnB4pktO3-qmdXXCmiJ5tHE3E422bXEgChLXVbsLU7aS8ugrlurDg-0Pe3leCzTtxSxOOw/s640/unnamed.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you haven't already seen my blog post about my time at Burning Man, take a look <a href="http://thescienceofhappy.blogspot.co.uk/2016/12/how-to-prepare-for-your-first-burn.html">here</a> and discover more about the eye-opening life-changing gathering in Black Rock desert. </div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b>TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-39423293890432785152017-07-16T11:54:00.000+01:002017-08-04T13:34:08.108+01:00How To Minimise Food Waste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As an aspiring zero-waster, I'm always trying to find ways to minimise waste - whether it be food waste or non-decomposable waste that will eventually end up in landfills. The average household will throw away a tonne of waste every year - that's the same weight as a car! And every year, we produce 3% more waste than the preceding year.<br />
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Now you may think that because food decomposes, it's fine to leave it in a landfill - WRONG. When you send food waste to a landfill, it creates dangerous methane gas which is a greenhouse gas that affects our climate. But what about composting? Composting promotes aerobic decomposition which creates less methane gas and generates nutrient-rich dirt that can be reused and recycled.</div>
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However, I know that being environmentally-friendly is a long and arduous task. Sometimes it can cost us a pretty penny and I know that being completely green is unrealistic. But there are little changes you can make to your every-day life that can benefit the planet we live on and help us become more zero waste.</div>
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Supermarkets alone throw away 115,000 tonnes of food waste every year and this figure has sparked mass controversy. The first food-waste supermarket was opened last year called <a href="http://therealjunkfoodproject.org/" target="_blank">The Real Junk Food Project</a> and it aims to sell off food from local supermarkets and businesses that would otherwise be thrown away. 'Communal Fridges' have also began popping up, whereby the local neighbourhood can donate food that is close to expiry to a communal fridge for others to use instead, helping to reduce food waste.</div>
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In Manchester, we don't have anything like this but I discovered a pretty neat app called <a href="http://toogoodtogo.co.uk/" target="_blank">Too Good To Go</a> which is available all-throughout the UK and it shares a similar concept. The app lists local businesses that have signed up with TGTG and it lets customers buy leftover food for as little as £2 and a maximum of £3.80. Pick-up times are always at the end of opening hours (understandably) so this can range from 3pm all the way to 10pm but for the price, there really isn't anything to complain about.</div>
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I decided to try it out myself and it did not disappoint. The app is incredibly user-friendly with a very soft interface. The app will locate nearby businesses listed with TGTG or you can manually select a location yourself. Each business will describe what you will get from them and also detail their pick-up time slots. You pick what you want, pay via the app, pick-up at the allocated time and show your code when you arrive - it's that simple.</div>
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I decided to pick up a box from <a href="http://www.kettlebellkitchen.co.uk/" target="_blank">Kettlebell Kitchen</a> in Ancoats which is a high-protein clean-eating fast food restaurant located just opposite a Pure Gym in Manchester. I had previously eaten here and enjoyed their fresh and healthy Kettleboxes and their gym-themed restaurant in definitely Instagrammable. </div>
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This box, although seemingly small - could dish out three lunches or two larger meals and it contained chicken, sweet potato mash, kidney beans, butter beans and peas. All for £2.50!</div>
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These are perfect for snacking, a healthy and affordable takeaway alternative, for late night shifts or why not try donating one to the homeless?</div>
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About a third of the food produced on the planet never gets eaten. Think of all the waste water, carbon emissions and non-decomposable packaging we create, just from food waste alone. Considering we've been graced with a planet as naturally beautiful as the one we live in, I think it's rather ungrateful of us to then destroy it. Don't you agree?<br />
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-16307781097394688892017-03-01T22:52:00.000+00:002017-08-04T13:34:18.432+01:00Star Sew Bright<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_F3BUvpQrzpiEh_ShLTTan1_0edCIdtjE4FDEwHq2U7QZ1ybLZAEpQM0oBIoVCyYz4m9teR0dWrfEXta8Ck7elv8wmo0BJdKpsGrMo7U7G-PSFOHrWGX2X6APDIh22xKViN1blpza9U/s1600/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Fabric+Sewing+Print_194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_F3BUvpQrzpiEh_ShLTTan1_0edCIdtjE4FDEwHq2U7QZ1ybLZAEpQM0oBIoVCyYz4m9teR0dWrfEXta8Ck7elv8wmo0BJdKpsGrMo7U7G-PSFOHrWGX2X6APDIh22xKViN1blpza9U/s640/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Fabric+Sewing+Print_194.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The lovely Cara from <a href="https://nanamomomakes.co.uk/" target="_blank">Nana Momo Makes</a> contacted me to review a new monthly sewing box. The subscription just launched in November and began with a quilting course which I found exciting and was definitely up for the challenge. I am a keen sewer but by no means a pro, however - quilting was a first for me. <script type="text/javascript">
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When you join the subscription, you have access to the video tutorials Cara personally creates for you which run you through step-by-step just what you need to do to achieve the end result. If you want to take up quilting as a hobby, I would definitely recommend purchasing the additional instruments that Cara advises you to. </div>
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As a newbie to quilting, I found that I had to improvise with what I had lying around but definitely thought the end result would have been finished more professionally had I had the right equipment. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpK9s5eLrcMdVE0d-mFmAhwKRSY9FTphs6yrunxWjUu3pedzGKP-wd6TpjFRVsh3DSEc6HN_mSttBfFvA1fZe61PlYYgQUOK5rO27QHbuobCAZ0qbT0rOf7DkdISn1aTpxQlo14S_AJbM/s1600/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Fabric+Sewing+Quilting+Squares.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpK9s5eLrcMdVE0d-mFmAhwKRSY9FTphs6yrunxWjUu3pedzGKP-wd6TpjFRVsh3DSEc6HN_mSttBfFvA1fZe61PlYYgQUOK5rO27QHbuobCAZ0qbT0rOf7DkdISn1aTpxQlo14S_AJbM/s640/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Fabric+Sewing+Quilting+Squares.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The pile of fabric comes neatly piled and tied with a ribbon, and comes with all the relevant information to get you started. The video tutorials run through these pages visually and makes it more digestible, as this information can be a little overwhelming at first!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqreDkRl340dR9wNmGrYBpAWzhflie93HBaWBbLSooIZnthXXWWLvjTFM81knsRgujtbEHa_67Uv-k0c-6GA9DDDZe-Ir39mOzRb8FaaY0vzxsG4nvhtMwQRPY_0VyzCu7FlA_jrFYMY/s1600/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Fabric+Prints+Sewing+Quilting+Instructions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwqreDkRl340dR9wNmGrYBpAWzhflie93HBaWBbLSooIZnthXXWWLvjTFM81knsRgujtbEHa_67Uv-k0c-6GA9DDDZe-Ir39mOzRb8FaaY0vzxsG4nvhtMwQRPY_0VyzCu7FlA_jrFYMY/s640/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Fabric+Prints+Sewing+Quilting+Instructions.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I did make a couple errors including sewing down the middle line but this wasn't an issue as I had to cut down it anyway. And also, I didn't align my squares from the centre so the star at the end was a little misaligned. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyA0khGhofX-3hN2ZQYZS4PzZ10d1nSmDxM4gWNzINyusQuwMaKCOJOPSGFyFq0Y7f9LGHgbohDbrlhoOe3vxT3irN9yNYcckPppJML-_AhHjur5KEqw4vdDF4-n94EgWXCiqcuR1IM9I/s1600/Nana+Momo+Makes+Sewign+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Quilting+How+To+Beginners.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyA0khGhofX-3hN2ZQYZS4PzZ10d1nSmDxM4gWNzINyusQuwMaKCOJOPSGFyFq0Y7f9LGHgbohDbrlhoOe3vxT3irN9yNYcckPppJML-_AhHjur5KEqw4vdDF4-n94EgWXCiqcuR1IM9I/s640/Nana+Momo+Makes+Sewign+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Quilting+How+To+Beginners.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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However, I was very happy with and proud of the outcome of the star even with it's imperfections as they added a little more character to the piece. I also love the fabric choices she included and found this mustard print adorable. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgszo9CgIDbhdjLY9vfhYCnHGTJ8Jy6-D-B7gDJN7CezO0VRWWin29QzSdamUe7TOq9hdLs7TEkAmXHHr8npDWqKAlrv-osfK14HFA5VydjvBuExTqRAnPJJVwE_riwweM1mICumvwc17k/s1600/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Sucscription+Box+Quilting+Star+Fabric+Print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgszo9CgIDbhdjLY9vfhYCnHGTJ8Jy6-D-B7gDJN7CezO0VRWWin29QzSdamUe7TOq9hdLs7TEkAmXHHr8npDWqKAlrv-osfK14HFA5VydjvBuExTqRAnPJJVwE_riwweM1mICumvwc17k/s640/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Sucscription+Box+Quilting+Star+Fabric+Print.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cara includes enough fabric to create two of these and while I probably won't be taking up quilting full time, the box has given me enough fabric to make another star which I could use as a creative way to wrap presents. </div>
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As I'm a budding zero waster, I'm hoping to decrease the waste I produce and get more crafty at home to replace products I would otherwise buy and then throw away (like wrapping paper). The box has also taught me how to make this unique gift and I'll be keeping the instructions for reference as I'd love to make more of these adorable quilt squares. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UvCkgm-JnGjm3YbxaFILUhoDW2inVE9Gji0ElivAaM-5sAYxZFh2mpXRSHhfC9j-iu5nsXP1y0k6ocomHEIWhhcp65QUxZL5ge9R2njmQ9_Jvc_cwkykugVzE6oilm2YZZoa7zK2CKg/s1600/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Printed+Fabric+Sewing+Stars+Gift+Wrapping+Presents+Zero+Waste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UvCkgm-JnGjm3YbxaFILUhoDW2inVE9Gji0ElivAaM-5sAYxZFh2mpXRSHhfC9j-iu5nsXP1y0k6ocomHEIWhhcp65QUxZL5ge9R2njmQ9_Jvc_cwkykugVzE6oilm2YZZoa7zK2CKg/s640/Nana+Momo+Makes+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Printed+Fabric+Sewing+Stars+Gift+Wrapping+Presents+Zero+Waste.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm very grateful for Cara for reaching out to me about this box because now I have learnt a new skill and something which is invaluable to me. Both my mother and I are very creative and my father, has a creative engineering mind. My mother has recently learnt how to crochet from being an avid knitter herself, but sewing is not her forté and relies on me to teach her whenever I get the chance. Having learnt this new skill, I can now use this to bond with my mother the next time I'm back for some home comforts. </div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-2712405238153928882017-03-01T13:58:00.000+00:002017-08-04T13:34:27.559+01:00Eating Pancakes For All Three Meals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What would happen if I were to eat nothing but pancakes for all three meals of the day at different establishments? </h3>
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Well, we'll soon find out! Yesterday graced us with one of my favourite religious holidays - Pancake Day...where we learn that Jesus lent his frying pan to Judas for 40 days and 40 nights and that's where we get Lent from*. <script type="text/javascript">
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For breakfast, I went to <a href="http://www.alabamas.co.uk/" target="_blank">Alabama's All America Eatery</a> in the Northern Quarter of Manchester as I have enjoyed their pancakes previously. As I was short on time and they suggested leaving up to 40 minutes for a visit so I had to bail and opt for personal favourite; <a href="http://www.ezraandgil.com/" target="_blank">Ezra & Gil</a>. Served in no time, I opted for the very simple and classic blueberry and maple syrup fluffy American-style pancakes. It hit the spot with a cup of their chai latte and was just enough to fill me for breakfast. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ds-NAEPHYOeAmx9-z6KDWamUfTJF_gwD247u1O3mb9rp3a-DnbdVwicBz_nC37zuIQr-hDzdU7M1ZmYwDq6j6AAMPBnydZu9L5M6YxTIL7b1grymQXlaKnpx4mEMmx69ZxhcIZJ3wyw/s1600/Pancake+Day+Pancakes+Blueberry+Maple+Syrup+Ezra+%2526+Gil+Review+Fruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ds-NAEPHYOeAmx9-z6KDWamUfTJF_gwD247u1O3mb9rp3a-DnbdVwicBz_nC37zuIQr-hDzdU7M1ZmYwDq6j6AAMPBnydZu9L5M6YxTIL7b1grymQXlaKnpx4mEMmx69ZxhcIZJ3wyw/s1600/Pancake+Day+Pancakes+Blueberry+Maple+Syrup+Ezra+%2526+Gil+Review+Fruit.jpg" /></a></div>
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The reason why Ezra & Gil is my favourite café establishment is because of so many different contributing factors. It's big, it has a friendly and homely atmosphere, it promotes and sells local produce (which gives me a very zerowaste vibe), they are dog friendly with free dog treats, free wifi, you can spend hours in there and not realise, CANDY MACHINES, they do a mean smashed avocado (which I'm obsessed with) and they are bloody efficient! Their kitchen is beyond fast yet it's not huge nor abundantly staffed. They always produce my orders in record speed and once, my plate arrived the second I sat down. </div>
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For lunch, I went back to Alabama's to be told the wait to be seated would be over 45 minutes long and you had to be texted when a table was ready since there was no room to sit, even though I did try to book a table online on the OpenTable widget on their website but consequently told that they aren't even registered with OpenTable. So off we went to another homely kitchen named <a href="http://www.evelynscafebar.com/" target="_blank">Evelyn's Café Bar</a>. I've heard nothing but great things about this place yet never found the time to go. My bestie raves about the Sunday roast here which is next on my list. They had three pancake specials on; a fluffy soufflé pancake with fresh berries, a green superfood avocado and apple pancake, and a savoury Indian cuisine inspired pancake with spices. I opted for the superfood pancake and my chummy, the berry soufflé pancake and halved each when they arrived. </div>
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The superfood pancake definitely ticked my boxes with the berry pancake falling short. Both delicious and took no time to arrive, the superfood won it for me. The berry pancake was a little too heavy for my liking with some parts tasting more eggy than others and other parts tasting more sour from the berries.</div>
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Finally for dinner, I popped over to <a href="http://trofnq.co.uk/" target="_blank">Trof</a> to peruse their pancake offerings. I had been here for drinks before but never for food until the other week when I tried their smashed avocado. I might possibly say it was better than Ezra but if I say this out loud, I feel like the bestie would go ape since she seems to be in an open relationship with the establishment. All that was left at Trof when we arrived were a mushroom and cheese pancake and ham, tomato and cheese pancake. This was not an issue for me since I prefer savoury food over sweet food any day of the week, so I went ahead and ordered the ham, tomato and cheese. </div>
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Sadly, this didn't do it for me. The ham was actually dry cured ham, yet I was expecting juicy slices of ham inside. The tomato was fresh but the ham ruined the dish for me and I felt that these options were just variations of omelette but replacing egg with a pancake. Sadly, this wasn't appealing enough visually to make it onto my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/laceandliquor/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> either. </div>
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Winner: Superfood Pancake at Evelyn's Cafe Bar</h2>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-68914661390623590752017-02-23T14:30:00.000+00:002017-05-01T20:31:06.677+01:00Plan A Solo Vacation // Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am an advocate for solo vacations, or as we call them here in the UK - holidays. I've always loved travelling alone; I feel as though it leaves you more room for open mindedness and adventure. Don't get me wrong, I love travelling with friends. But the more friends you have on holiday with you, the more conflicting interests you have. I have been so lucky in the sense that I have been on many solo expeditions and have always come out richer from these experiences. So to celebrate Plan A Solo Vacation Day on the 1st March, I am giving away some goodies that I think are essential for a solo holiday.</div>
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Lime Quilted Cross Body Bag - A cross body bag is essential for any solo trip, whether it is abroad or domestic. It frees both arms for ultimate exploration potential and isn't so big that it becomes a burden. You need a bag small enough to not get in the way, but big enough to hold all your essentials. It's also handy if the chain can be tucked away as it can double as an evening bag/clutch. Having a multi-purpose bag means you can travel with less (just one bag) which means more room for shopping hauls or additional luggage if you are planning a backpacking style trip. This fun lime Miu Miu style quilted cross body bag is perfect!</div>
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Lovisa Turquoise Crystal Ball Earring Studs - While some may think jewellery is not essential for a holiday, I think it's important to pack a pair of earrings for certain occasions. Some understated but colourful studs will do the trick if you want a bit of daytime bling in the sunshine or evening glitz. These studs are versatile and do the trick!</div>
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Missguided Statement Necklace - I believe you should bring at least one necklace on a holiday with you, while not necessary in the day, I think having one glam piece is essential. Stick with silver so it can match any outfit you pick out.</div>
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Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin and Love Poems by Pablo Neruda - Always bring at least one book with you unless you know there will be books at your accommodation. If you stay in a hostel, chances are there will be many books to pick from but if you're at a holiday resort, it's safer to bring one from home. Choose a classic like Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice or if you don't want to commit to a long story, choose something easier to read like a collection of short stories or some love poems. </div>
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Nude Nail Varnish - While makeup should be minimal on holiday, I think it's important to have well groomed nails. Opt for something understated like a nude brown or french manicure pink. A lot like the silver statement necklace, the colour of your nails should be able to match any outfit you pick out. </div>
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Semi-Rimless Tortoiseshell Vintage-Style Sunglasses - Last but not least, sunglasses! You can never predict the weather, and it is very important to look after your eyes. Not only can the sun's rays damage your eyesight but squinting can increase wrinkles around the eye area. Keep your eyes protected with some stylish sunglasses and make sure they themselves are protected from scratches.</div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-86667184157556720802017-02-10T13:35:00.000+00:002017-08-04T13:35:21.658+01:00La Douleur Exquise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4oNn656akLHPgPgcLFlBXa_lwb5w-bnZdmd6urrrqutMkqvq4h2wmZtaCazwuaFKwYmtKWkx_u3FRzpF-H0praMtfZ10hDw1GlHdbqLiS3t7IydjOToT1YSK-7Hv7uFeEgXE-T-kMjGc/s1600/Fashion+Oxfam+DIY+Stripe+Ostrich+Feather+Oscar+De+La+Renta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4oNn656akLHPgPgcLFlBXa_lwb5w-bnZdmd6urrrqutMkqvq4h2wmZtaCazwuaFKwYmtKWkx_u3FRzpF-H0praMtfZ10hDw1GlHdbqLiS3t7IydjOToT1YSK-7Hv7uFeEgXE-T-kMjGc/s1600/Fashion+Oxfam+DIY+Stripe+Ostrich+Feather+Oscar+De+La+Renta.jpg" /></a></div>
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Ever since I spotted Oscar De La Renta's striped sequin and ostrich feather top on my favourite blogger Blair of Atlantic Pacific, I knew I had to have it. But at about £2,000 for the beautiful piece, how would that be possible?<br />
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I took a mini hiatus from any DIY projects but returned in full force with this cheeky number. I had an old navy and white striped cropped tee from H&M that I was planning on throwing out (crop tops are not cute on a 27 year old woman) but loved the shape and quality so much that I couldn't bring myself to do it. Queue the lightbulb moment! After buying 2 meters worth of crisp white ostrich feather trimmings, I decided to sew this to the hem of the top to elongate it (making it more wearable at my age) and also channel my inner Oscar De La Renta. Not only was this one of my easiest upcycling projects but one of my favourites also.</div>
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Step 1</h3>
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Since ostrich feather trims are quite sparce in feathers, it is likely you'll have to double up the trimming in order to gain the same look as the Oscar De La Renta top. Work out what length of feathers you will need.</div>
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Step 2</h3>
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Double up! Fold the trim on itself to double the volume of feathers, align and pin in place.</div>
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Step 3</h3>
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Pin to the inside of the top. The reason we do this is so that the hem of the top hides the ribbon trim of the feathers. It looks neater and more professional.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXq3NLiJMiGz_G93XlMOCr7Ipv0Rc8Bc5t1K3r6wNFUbV_Q1n3qfZheEGwB1Phtmvrrx06_o5Zkc_dAM79CqMM5fzI8r-_qR8M62-zhENH0B-DLCEaDCa7sOguytz7qkVKEnn4ym97lg/s1600/Fashion+DIY+Oxfam+Upcycling+Stripe+Ostrich+Feather+Oscar+De+La+Renta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXq3NLiJMiGz_G93XlMOCr7Ipv0Rc8Bc5t1K3r6wNFUbV_Q1n3qfZheEGwB1Phtmvrrx06_o5Zkc_dAM79CqMM5fzI8r-_qR8M62-zhENH0B-DLCEaDCa7sOguytz7qkVKEnn4ym97lg/s1600/Fashion+DIY+Oxfam+Upcycling+Stripe+Ostrich+Feather+Oscar+De+La+Renta.jpg" /></a></div>
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Step 4</h3>
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I would highly recommend machine sewing, the industrial needle will penetrate the double trim and hem of the top with ease. Align and sew leaving a slight gap between the start and finish. Do not leave a big enough gap so that it's visible (the feathers should mask the gap) but big enough for a little stretch. Because this trim does not stretch, you may find this difficult to put on without a stretch gap. Failing that, you can insert a zip. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgOxuBpGeqN2oIqR1UnUZYyteqr-ak_RFXiD5bOYhO3vvmjjaUzm_56FiNgXKFhcDcxmbhpH0YnoUIQbtIngZgN55MyWXlJo7M02chbj1b1xWxKI_7L70dxoVE0hxcGydJ21GDmeowmj8/s1600/Fashion+DIY+Oxfam+Upcycling+Oscar+De+La+Renta+Ostrich+Feather+Pins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgOxuBpGeqN2oIqR1UnUZYyteqr-ak_RFXiD5bOYhO3vvmjjaUzm_56FiNgXKFhcDcxmbhpH0YnoUIQbtIngZgN55MyWXlJo7M02chbj1b1xWxKI_7L70dxoVE0hxcGydJ21GDmeowmj8/s1600/Fashion+DIY+Oxfam+Upcycling+Oscar+De+La+Renta+Ostrich+Feather+Pins.jpg" /></a></div>
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Once complete, style with dainty and delicate jewellery or a vintage brooch. The top I had was upcycled from an old H&M top and the feathers were bought for £7.48 which seemed like a much more reasonable option compared to spending £2,000. Check out Oxfam's shop for some easy stripes to upcycle <a href="http://www.oxfam.org.uk/shop/search-results?i=1;q=stripe;q1=Women%27s;q2=Tops;show_all=products;x1=secondary_cat_1;x2=secondary_cat_2" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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While I do love a good brand or label, I think it's important not to add to the environmental impact the fashion industry already has. As an aspiring minimalist and zero waster, I am aware of just how much waste is involved in the industry and knowing that I'm minimising my impact makes me feel that little bit better. </div>
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<a href="http://www.oxfam.org.uk/blogs/author/natalie-tsoh" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIV9cb-ArfNb-Lvwwom6iO2DVL6s_iK3kUZaNi4l_O0_JMg-MoFJlKalMRD_NEd_BesLzxwuKBwCh-x8rAv008JKV9YOu0tVcKyRgjnlQno2Zl-ogTepohwoALFjD3WYvcqY1m6Lao07c/s1600/OXFAM.jpg" /></a><span id="goog_788504047"></span><span id="goog_788504048"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
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TSOHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06369270101601619760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4339196184740002236.post-18771191307777630462017-01-31T23:42:00.002+00:002017-05-01T20:30:13.862+01:00Absolutely Divine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The lovely Christine from <a href="https://divinelegs.com/" target="_blank">Divine Legs</a> kindly sent me a box of goodies to try this winter season. Divine Legs are a monthly subscription service that provide hosiery and socks for men and women. Christine included in the box her Beauty Balm tights and a pair of hold-ups. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2f0hkL-eVD3Fi5FzMVSQXM3g35o0L_Pp87lclcXEfX5xsprZGY-4sQrWMN_NkQxGEoymMPstS3C6Ix54BIFeaSJM64fBcYoDJ-VWZjrHhTfW16KIcXJoIJRUhA9XYd_sX9OnJw2SRWo/s1600/Divine+Legs+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Review+Tights+Socks+Hosiery+Unboxing+Packaging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2f0hkL-eVD3Fi5FzMVSQXM3g35o0L_Pp87lclcXEfX5xsprZGY-4sQrWMN_NkQxGEoymMPstS3C6Ix54BIFeaSJM64fBcYoDJ-VWZjrHhTfW16KIcXJoIJRUhA9XYd_sX9OnJw2SRWo/s1600/Divine+Legs+Monthly+Subscription+Box+Review+Tights+Socks+Hosiery+Unboxing+Packaging.jpg" /></a></div>
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The Beauty Balm tights are an innovative type of hosiery that improves circulation, stays put and also enhances the look of your complexion. They are available in powder and black but Divine Legs are working hard on producing new shades. I tried this out for the first time one evening while out for drinks; perfect for a test run. I tend to buy tights a size larger in most retailers as this prevents tights from falling down. However, these Beauty Balm tights were very snug and barely drooped at all. You can feel the support it gives you and see from the quality of the tights how they blend your natural complexion. The only downside to this for me was the shade; powder, but like I mentioned - Christine is working on new shades for the near future. If you're fair skinned, then by all means opt for the powder. Otherwise opt for the black which undoubtedly would be perfect for winter, especially as the tights provide better circulatory benefits than any others.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWZt46IlKYNOWA0UF5EP5wDJy2iLlpj7fZ1R6yBX5C9KAIvXVbQH_NY6463g3KUBpPAor-Y5sqjH3wjC77r9g0q1UAQz7Skm5Z9eMF66Y5TLSxHa8j7tEACm1JAiVKutAY2fqQjkoAok/s1600/Divine+Legs+Monthly+Subsciption+Box+Tights+Hosiery+Socks+Review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWZt46IlKYNOWA0UF5EP5wDJy2iLlpj7fZ1R6yBX5C9KAIvXVbQH_NY6463g3KUBpPAor-Y5sqjH3wjC77r9g0q1UAQz7Skm5Z9eMF66Y5TLSxHa8j7tEACm1JAiVKutAY2fqQjkoAok/s1600/Divine+Legs+Monthly+Subsciption+Box+Tights+Hosiery+Socks+Review.jpg" /></a></div>
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The hold-ups I was most apprehensive about, as I've never really had a good experience with them; they either ladder easily, are of terrible quality or don't hold up. These however, were a pleasant surprise. Not only did they hold up, they did not budge an inch. Not to mention these are of very high quality and luxurious to the touch. Everything you want hold-ups to be and even more perfect for this coming Valentine's Day. </div>
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I would highly recommend this service, especially for those who wear tights to work and in the evenings. Such a simple service can make you feel a million dollars, and it teaches you to appreciate good quality workmanship. Why spend so much money buying countless tights that rip on the first wear? Not everyone is blessed with the ability to use their own legs, so it's only right to look after ours, when they go through so much to support us!</div>
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