Category Archives: life

Get in the Garden- a guide to crops in pots*

27th February 2016
Well here’s a new topic for me to be covering on the blog. I’ve always had an interest and appreciation for a good garden- my Grandad and Dad both take huge pride in theirs and I’ve often watched in amazement as they make things flourish and bloom. I’ve never really had much of a go myself though, preferring to stand at the sidelines rather than risk killing off nature with my lack of knowledge. Now I’ve got my own flat, complete with little front garden I’m starting to take more interest. I really want to start growing some crops in pots but knowing where to start is my stumbling block (even thought I DID buy a book!). I was sent over this really handy infographic from Compost Direct the other day and wanted to share it to inspire and aid any one else with a mission to get green fingered this year…
And a little bit of information to accompany…

“Gardening is good for you, according to a new infographic produced by Compost Direct. Older gardeners have a 36-47% lower risk of dementia than non-gardeners. However, with urban spaces on the rise there is less room for people who’d like to get into garden.

Thankfully, there are many ways to grow crops in small spaces – from potted plants indoors to veg patches and grow bags. Did you know that you can grow potatoes in compost bags and bin liners? Following a simple growing process you can enjoy some pristine spuds without needing a full size garden.

How about growing crops in specialist grow bags? With just a small amount of space, you can grow fruit and veg to feed your whole household – from tomatoes and carrots to herbs and courgettes.

Read the full infographic to see how to grow potatoes, tomatoes, veg patches and more. You can also find out how to maximise your growing area by building window boxes and vertical gardens, meaning that no matter what kind of outdoor space you have – there is no excuse not to garden!”

Have you successfully grown crops in pots before? I’ll take any hints and tips I can get right now…I’m really excited and will hopefully have some good results to share later on in the year!

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Posted in infographic, life, life stuff

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Mae reviews: Purrfect Box

26th February 2016
One of the major things I miss about having moved out of my parents’ (other than my parents themselves) is having my delinquent little Mae on hand to keep me entertained. Thankfully I haven’t moved far and still pop in regularly to say hi to Mum and Dad, scrounge a cup of tea and some food and catch up with my feline fiend. I was delighted when Purrfect Box once again offered to send me out a box for Mae to enjoy, the perfect way to show her I still care and indulge in a photo taking session of her pretty face!
The Purrfect Box is a monthly subscription which costs £19.90 a month, or £15.90 per month if you take out a years subscription. The contents of the box are guaranteed to be worth at least £30 with 4-6 premium products inside so it’s a pretty sweet deal, especially as each box is catered to your feline’s needs and preferences. Let me know if you decide to treat your feline friend to a box; I’ll be picking up a few on a one off basis throughout the year, I can’t afford it on a monthly basis but as an every so often treat I think it’s wonderful.
As ever there was a fantastic mix of toy, treats and useful bits and bobs in the box which Mae really enjoyed exploring. On the toy front I’d say this box has been the biggest hit to date with the catnip filled dolphin being a particular favourite.

As you can see Mae was somewhat bemused by the idea of Cat Caviar and tried to eat it as it came rather than waiting for it to be crumbled over her food as suggested. I think this was a hit though and certainly a unique concept in feline dining.

Once again this box was pretty much a complete hit from Purrfect Box, anything that captures my fussy friend’s attention for more than thirty seconds is pretty rare and so far we’ve lost hours playing with these toys and chasing around for treats.

Have you tried Purrfect box (or any other pet subscription boxes) for your pets? I’d love to know your thoughts.

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Posted in brands I love, life, Mae, review

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Crystallized round two

24th February 2016
Fresh off the back of my post last week about how else I was styling the skirt half of my beloved Yumi co-ord I thought I’d share one of the ways I’ve been wearing the sweater part independent of it’s partner. It’s the kind of statement piece that lends itself beautifully to a casual look, perfect for a dressed down denim and sneakers kind of day- the kind of day I seem to be falling in to the habit of having lately.

Sweater c/o Yumi | Dress: Primark New Look | Trainers: Adidas

This outfit isn’t exactly groundbreaking and yet there is something about it I just love. I kind of miss the days where I made a bit more effort with my out of work style and felt like I had something a little more…on point to post, but at the same time I’m not shopping like I used to, instead finding new ways to re-wear old favourites and one of these days I WILL make an effort and surprise everyone.
I feel a bit like a fraud that my blog might be associated with fashion at all these days to be honest. When I first started blogging there wasn’t such a pressure (put on myself) to be super polished with professional standard photos all of the time, but these days that seems the norm. I’m quite comfortable with my style and still enjoy following the trends but feel I just don’t have the time, money or confidence to take things further which saddens me a bit because I truly love blogging but feel like I’m too old and falling behind to really make the best of it. Truth is I’m not overly sociable, I massively lack in confidence and half of the time would rather stay in and drink tea whilst playing bingo online with harrysbingo than put myself out there for all to see (which does seem somewhat odd for a blogger who puts her life online I admit).

I’m not giving up though. 2016 is going to be a big year for me in terms of getting my life on track. A challenge, yes as I once again tackle putting on weight and getting healthy. Learning to drive, progressing at work and settling in to a new and independent home with Ben…but you know what? I finally feel I’m ready. I’ve said it so many times before but this time it just feels different. I’ve had an eating disorder for almost half of my life. I turn 29 this year and refuse to take it in to my thirties with me.

What that has to do with blogging I don’t know, but I’ve been looking for a way to slip it in for a while. Saying it makes me commit further, and takes away some of the disordered feelings of guilt and shame over future photos of myself with a fuller (healthier) figure. Maybe once I get there I’ll get myself on a bit of a shopping spree too, and set aside some time and patience for some “pro blogger” standard posts too.

Congratulations if you read that. Further congratulations if you still intend to follow this blog in the future.

Back on to the fashion side of things now- how brilliant is this jumpsuit from Yumi? They are SO on it this season and I want in on it!

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Posted in life, life stuff, outfits, wish list

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A Little Cosy Night in Wish List

23rd February 2016
I’ve mentioned before that I’m not really a going out kind of girl. I don’t mind the odd dinner date or drinks with friends but long gone are the days where I find enjoyment in partying all night and sleeping it off the next day. Perhaps the fact I’m rapidly approaching that magical age of 30, or perhaps I really am just a boring old fart but give me a cosy night in- blankets, candles, TV, a brew and my laptop (I can’t resist bingo games at houseofbingo.com) any time.

Fairy Lights | Lantern | Radio | PJs | Cloud Light | Blanket

Moving out has reignited a constant desire to cosy up in the evenings, usually under a blanket browsing for more bits and pieces to add to the flat. I keep seeing all these amazing lights everywhere- TK Maxx and BHS both have an incredible selection at the moment…absolutely need to either reign in my browsing or win it big.
What’s on your home radar? Are you a home-girl/boy or a party animal?

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Posted in life, shopping, wish list

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Financing your Fashion- top tips for guilt free shopping!

21st February 2016
It might seem hard to believe, especially as I’m known for my love of shoes, clothes and shopping (I even find the food shopping exciting!) but I have a really hard time justifying spending money on myself, more so since moving and I feel I need to keep a track of every penny. I’m all for a bit of guilt free spending though and I tend to use money I’ve earned outside of my full time job for treats like a new dress or those shoes I just can’t resist and I spend quite a lot of time searching online for the best ways to earn some extra pennies. Being kind like I am I thought that today I’d share some of those tips with you.

(here)

One of the most obvious sources of extra income is good old eBay, I will admit I do find it a bit of a faff taking photographs and arranging the listings but what better way to justify an online clothes shopping spree than selling the things you no longer wear (or like me, buy and then forget about!). I’ve had a look at some of the other online selling platforms too, but I’m easily confused and a bit stuck in my ways so it’s usually back to eBay I go.

My next tip might seem a bit of a riskier one but used cautiously and with some clever researching for the best sign up deals online casinos, online bingo games or the more risk free option of matched betting can see some pretty much free cash come your way. I’m always careful to only invest the minimum for these and once the bonus terms have expired I move on to the next one.

Survey sites are another great way to earn some extra. It’s tedious and can be time consuming but there are a couple of sites I use regularly and reap the rewards in the form of high street vouchers. It’s not ever going to make you millions but the vouchers are handy, especially amazon ones for stocking up on gifts (or loading up your kindle!)

Other options I’ve explored are using cash back sites for online purchases- there can be some great deals out there for signing up to certain things although it does take a while to track and you need to be on the ball when it comes to cancelling. Bloggers can of course make some extra through affiliate links and selling ads although I’ve never had much like with these and whilst I try not to make a habit of it sponsored content has been a bit of a life saver from time to time!

I’d love to know your top hints and tips for funding your love of fashion- I’m pretty sure I’m only just skimming the surface here.

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Posted in life, shopping

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