January Favourites | Beauty, Fashion and Lifestyle

January has come and gone so quickly, I can't believe we're into the second month of 2016 already! It seems to have been a positive start to 2016 for me personally and I'm excited to see what the rest of the year brings. This year, I'm aiming to share with you my favourites from each month as I love seeing what everyone else has been enjoying using as I think it gives a thorough review on what's really worth purchasing etc. So as you can tell from the title, I shall be sharing with you what I've been loving this month, let's get into it shall we? 
















Fleur De Force Cosmic Bronze Eyeshadow Palette

I was so happy to receive this palette in the Feel Unique beauty advent calendar. I had my eyes on this quad when the line was launched, however I decided against it as I thought I had enough natural eyeshadows. I was wrong, I was totally missing out not having this palette! It has a beautiful range of natural shades, my favourites have been the matte nude for all over the lid, the matte brown for in the crease and the brown shimmer for in the centre of my lid. These are really well pigmented so a little goes a long way, it's small and compact so would be perfect for travelling also!












Nuxe Reve De Miel Lip Balm

This is another one I received in the Feel Unique beauty advent calendar. Once again, I was so happy to receive this as I've heard lots of great reviews on it. I received this at perfect timing, my lips were so dry from the cold winter winds. After just a couple of uses, I noticed a huge difference. My lips were no longer dry and flaky instead they felt and looked healthy. I love the thick texture of this balm, the scent also has a hint of lemon which is nice. I'd really recommend this lip balm despite the £9.50 price tag.












Rimmel Match Perfection Concealer

I picked this up on a whim as I was completely out of concealer and it was the only one in my tiny local Boots that looked worth purchasing.

I vaguely remember seeing good reviews on this concealer, in particular that it was good for hiding dark circles under the eyes due to the 2-in-1 highlight. I love how easy this is to blend under my eyes, I tend to do the triangle then blend with a beauty blender. So quick and simple, makes me look more awake and so affordable. 











Zara Soft City Bag

I first saw this in a haul on YouTube and fell in love! I knew I wanted a new bag but was unsure what I wanted. As soon as I saw this, I had to have it. I couldn't believe it was only £20 from Zara, I think it looks much more expensive! I popped it on my Christmas Wish List and Santa listened. It's been perfect for everyday wear as it's not too big nor small, it's simple so will go with almost everything and is ideal for work and the weekends!








DW Home Calming Waves 3 Wick Candle

It wasn't until a few months ago that I discovered TK Maxx has amazing candles!? Ever since I've been popping in every time I'm in town to check them out. Just before Christmas I came across this one, a huge 3 wick candle that smelt mineral-y(definitely not a word) and spa-like. It seemed like the perfect candle for a relaxing bath or evening in so I didn't leave it behind as it was only £6.99- a total bargain. Ever since I've been burning it non-stop and I'm coming to the end of it which I'm gutted about. I'm going to savour it a little longer and only burn it for an hour or so every now and then! I must keep my eyes peeled for something similar in TK Maxx as I've never seen two of the same candles there at one time.









BNTM



I was so pleased to see Britain's Next Top Model back this year. I used to love this show and have watched almost every series so I was excited to see what the new one had to offer. It's a little different which I like, though it still has some of the original features like Model Mail, Challenges and the typical bitchyness in the house. I'm still yet to choose a favourite as I like the majority of the girls still remaining, though I'm sure their personalities will come out and help me decide. 

Are you watching it this year? I'd love to know what you think and if you've got a favourite!





That's all! I'm sure there has been lots of other things that I've been enjoying this month but these are the things that stood out in particular. I would love to hear what you've been loving this month so feel free to let me know in the comments down below. Also, don't forgot to let me know what you think of BNTM if you've been watching it!




WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN LOVING THIS MONTH?




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The Childhood TAG | The 90s, TV, Hobbies and More!

Apparently it's throwback week? Well according to my social media accounts, everyone seems to be changing their profile picture/icons to a picture of them during their childhood. Therefore, I thought what better way to end throwback week than to share with you the Childhood TAG! So today, I shall be throwing it back and chatting to you about my childhood. By all means, feel free to join in by either completing the TAG or leaving any memories down below, I'd love to hear! Now let's get on with the questions... 
Oh also, apologies for the layout of the questions for this post. The picture moved everything about and it won't let me change it for some reason.








1. What year were you born in?

I was born in 1997, so yes I'm a 90s kid but most of my childhood was during the early 00s.




2. When you was a child, what did you want to be?

Oh gosh, this changed so much. First of all I remember really wanting to be a hairdresser. I actually remember sitting my mum on a balcony in Spain, standing on a stool and pretending to cut her hair with my fingers in a scissor motion. The next thing I remember was wanting to be a primary school teacher, then a nail artist and then it reverted back to wanting to be a teacher/work with children and it's stuck that way ever since.




3. Did you have any pets as a child?

Yes! I had a black rabbit called Peter. We had him for a good few years but he had to be put down when I was about 8 as he had a disease contracted from Squirrels. We've never had a pet ever since that, despite all my begging!




4. Did you have an imaginary friend?

Not that I remember. I asked my mum and she said as far as she knows, I didn't. 




5. Did you ever have a special blanket, teddy or other item you couldn't sleep without?

Yes! I had a special blanket. It's actually still on my bed now, though I don't need it to sleep- haha! You know everybody loves the cool side of the pillow/blanket, well this blanket was a certain material which always felt cold so I called it my 'cold blanket'. It actually still comes in handy now when I get too warm throughout the night, haha!




6. Did you like school as a child?

There was always the odd day where I didn't fancy going to school, I'm sure everybody had those days. Apart from that, I loved school! I actually really liked high school aswell! 




7. As a child, was you ever bullied?

Again, not that I can remember. I'm sure every child was picked on now and again as that's just life unfortunately! Though I was never picked on for a long period of time which could've been considered as bullying, thankfully!




8. What TV shows do you remember watching and loving?

So many! During my early childhood I remember loving Teletubbies, Tweenies, Blues Clues and Maggie and the Ferocious Beast. Then I moved on to CBBC and Nickelodeon and loved The Story of Tracy Beaker, Raven, Drake and Josh and many more which I can't remember off the top of my head. I then moved on to the Disney Channel pre-teen/early teen programmes such as That's So Raven, Hannah Montanna and The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. 




9. What was your favourite childhood films?

I loved Shrek, Finding Nemo and the majority of Disney Pixar movies really!




10. Was you a sporty kid?

Definitely not, I dreaded sports day and especially the running races. I always remember coming last! I was more into the dance, craft and gardening clubs- haha! I actually remember really loving Welsh Folk Dancing and went to competitions with my school, though that's not particularly sporty or cool!




11. Any childhood memories you would like to mention...

So many to share, though I wouldn't want to bore you! I particularly remember day trips and adventures throughout the summer with family.

For example, a few times every summer, me and my whole family(I'm talking grandparents, aunties, uncles and cousins) used to head down to a local beach. I remember being really happy and being so excited for the next time, the day was usually ended with a McFlurry from McDonalds on the way home. 

I also remember family holidays, especially those in the UK. There was just nothing better than a week away, jam packed with day trips to the beach, zoos and family theme parks. I'm actually getting slightly emotional just thinking about it, why aren't I still 7?!





That's all of the questions! I hope you enjoyed reading and this brought back many childhood memories! I'd love to hear your memories of your childhood so let me know if you do the TAG or leave them in the comments below! This TAG has got me thinking about all the TV programmes I used to watch as a child so I'd love to hear what you watched.





WHAT WERE YOUR FAVOURITE TV PROGRAMMES AS A CHILD?




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2016 Goals | Health, Happiness and Learning!

So it's 2016, how crazy? 2008 still feels like yesterday and I still can't get to grips with it! Over the course of 2015 I've really enjoyed blogging and have come across girls I could call my 'blogging friends' which is amazing! Throughout 2016, I hope to make more blogging friends and what better way to kick start the new year with old and new blogging friends. Myself and a few others have decided to share our goals for 2016, or resolutions if you prefer. If you're struggling to think what you could do to become a 'better you' then make sure you go and check out the other girls posts(I've included clickable links below) once you've read mine for some more ideas!





Megan at Floral Chummys

Niamh at Just Another Girl 

Ella at Ellaphxnts

and

Geraldine at Geraldine's Wonderful World




I know lots of people decide they want to get healthier when the new year rolls around, I am the same so instead of making unrealistic goals that I won't stick to, I thought I'd adjust them a little.




DRINK MORE WATER

This one is really important for me, I definitely don't drink enough water so my body is probably really dehydrated which is not good. I regularly have headaches because of this so I must drink more to prevent this. I must try and drink a glass of water before meals too as you'll find out from my next goal, I'd like to lose a bit of weight. Drinking water before a meal will fill you up quicker, therefore you won't eat as much. Well that's the theory anyway!




EAT HEALTHIER

This is one most likely to be on everyone's minds at the beginning of a new year. There's no way I'll be giving up chocolate etc because how can you resist!? I would like to make healthier choices, snack less which will hopefully help me lose some excess weight. I know exercise pays a huge contribution to weight loss so I'm hoping to get into some sort of routine to help physically and mentally.




SPEND MORE TIME WITH FAMILY

This is one I'd especially like to work on this year. This past year I've made sure to push myself to attend more family events to see my extended family. I'd like to continue that throughout this year and visit them more regularly so it becomes the norm.




SOCIALISE MORE

Now, this one may sound similar to the last but I don't necessarily mean with family. I go quite a while without meeting up with my friends, the truth is we're all quite busy with work and life just generally passes by without us realising. I'd like to see them more regularly this year and try to say yes more when I'm invited out. I'd like to step outside of my comfort zone and do things I wouldn't normally, so I'm hoping I'll be able to do that this year.




TRAVEL

Don't be fooled, as much as I'd love to just pick up sticks and travel around the world, I'm not in the position to do that at the moment. By this I mean just stay away from home more often, whether that be with friends or family. I'd like to see more of the UK, embark on new experiences and enjoy myself. I'd also really love to take a holiday abroad, so I'm hoping that'll be this year.




SAVE

These things I've mentioned so far, you need money to do. I must open a savings account and start putting money away as I'd love to go abroad like I just mentioned and be driving by next year, more about that later!




EARN MORE

This one might sound a bit strange, don't worry I won't be barging through the doors of work requesting I'm paid more. However, I'd love to find a full-time job working with children or do something else on the side and up my hours. If there's any changes in the near future, I'm sure I'll let you know!




DRIVE

I haven't started proper lessons yet, nor passed my theory but I'm hoping to book some lessons in the next couple of months. I've been saying it for ages now but I'd really like to get it over and done with! Cars are expensive to buy and run but once I've passed, I'm sure it will encourage me more to save and get on the road. Now that it's out there, I'm hoping this will be a kick up the butt!




Let's hope I'm able to achieve all these things I've set out to do, who knows? Maybe 2016 will be the year I stick to each and every one. I'm sure there will be updates along the way! I'd love to know what your goals and aspirations are for the new year, let me know in the comments! Also, make sure you go and check out the girls posts linked above for more inspiration!




Happy New Year!

I hope 2016 brings you love, happiness and good health!




WHAT ARE YOUR NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS?




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What I Got For Christmas 2015 | Beauty, Fashion and Homey Bits!

I hope you all had a lovely Christmas spent with your loved ones, I sure did! For those of you who don't celebrate Christmas, I hope you've had a lovely few days nevertheless. Today I'm going to be sharing with you what I got for Christmas. I know how boring it can get with the usual disclaimers at the beginning of these posts and videos but I'd just like to put it out there, I'm super grateful for everything I have received this year. I love reading these posts so I thought I'd do one myself! I'm just going to get straight into it.








 First, I'm going to start with my stocking. We've had stockings in my house for as long as I can remember and over the years Santa(wink wink) has gotten so generous and made them larger each year. I have to say, I love stockings and would be more than happy with just a few stocking presents on Christmas Day. In my stocking, I tend to get the same kind of things every year like beauty essentials including cleansers, cotton wool pads and face masks etc which I love as it means I won't have to go out and make the same repurchases over and over again. I've been trying to take care of my nails this year and I kept loosing the tools so I received this dinky little set which is so handy, hopefully I won't loose them now!



We also tend to get a huge amount of chocolate, like most people I assume? Usually it would be gone within a few days but I'm pacing myself this year, sort of. Haha! I'm sat here wondering where it's all gone, hmm..





I also received some lovely candles including this mini vanilla frosting jar and lots of tea lights which are essential for my tart burner. I'm the worst for burning myself whilst lighting candles so my mum picked up this long lighter to avoid that, what a life saver haha! This was well needed.




Now I'll move on to the presents under the tree. My parents told me as I was getting money, I wouldn't have many presents to open but they were wrong! I was still completely shocked with the amount in my pile. I received lots of homey bits this year. Now, when I say homey bits, I don't mean home ware, I mean lots of bits that I'll use whilst relaxing at home.






First up which is possibly my favourite gift out of the lot was a new dressing gown! I've had the same one for about five years now and it was really on it's lasts legs- it wasn't the most subtle either- it was a hot pink leopard print one. The one I received this year is more subtle, a taupe/dusty pink colour. It's so cosy and I'm sure I'll get a lot of wear out of it. I also received this white snuggle blanket, we had one of these in our living room and it was held hostage up in my room for a while so my parents decided to get one for myself. It's so cosy, looks cute on my bed and will be perfect for the rest of the season. Oops, I forgot to take a picture of it but it's used as a background in the rest of these pictures.



Pyjamas are mandatory at Christmas, am I right? We always end up with a pair or two and I'm not complaining. I live in my pyjamas when I'm at home! First I received these super cosy Bambi pyjamas. These are similar to a pair I had last year, again from my sister but this time they have cuffed bottoms which I love as it means I won't trip over trouser legs that are too long!

I also had these pretty cloud pyjama bottoms, again they're cuffed. These feel so comfortable and stretchy so will be perfect for lazy days- by the way, these are from Sainsbury's if you're wondering as my mum left the tag on. What is Christmas without socks? I had three pairs of cosy socks which will be ideal to pair with my new pyjamas!

Next from my sister I had a lovely mug which came with a whisk, hot chocolate and mini marshmallows. It was perfect for during the evening on Boxing Day!



I've really loved Yankee Candles since I first discovered them a few years ago. I'm always tempted by the jars however I find the votives and wax tarts are such great value for money that I won't splurge. From my sisters boyfriend, he very kindly got me a load of votives and this rustic star holder. These will last me a good while and I love all the scents he chose so I'm so grateful.






From my other sister I received an adult colouring book. It was a good while since I'd been eyeing these up whilst shopping so I was so surprised that she remembered! She also got me some new colouring pencils and this lovely Cath Kidston pencil case to store them in. It's from the Kids section as she said the prints were nicer in there compared to the adults, haha!





I'm a huge fan of Olly Murs and was gutted when the calendar had sold out last year, therefore I had to go a year without one but this year my sister picked up the unofficial one- it's got some lovely photos in it so I'm not complaining. I also received an Olly Murs poster, my siblings know me too well!



Now I shall move onto the fashion and beauty gifts I received. I was so happy to receive a new watch as my other one had been playing up, this ones from Avon and is black with a rose gold bezel. I love it!



I saw this bag featured in a haul on YouTube and fell in love with it, especially when I found out it was only £20 from Zara. I put it on my wish list and my sister bought it for me, it's such a great size, looks like real leather and has a longer strap to carry on your shoulder or wear across your body. I can't wait to use it!












Last but not least, onto the beauty bits. I hinted to my parents that I'd love the Soap and Glory Whole She-Bang set and bless my mum, she was up at 7am on her day off to head onto the Boots site to order it. So lovely and I'm so thankful as it has some of my favourite products in and new bits I'm yet to try.






My sisters boyfriends mother was also kind enough to gift me with The Body Shop Coconut set. I love Coconut and The Body Shop so this is a win-win!

I received this really lovely eyes, nails and lips set, I swatched the products and was shocked by their pigmentation as these are from Primark! I'll definitely be looking to try more of the Primark Beauty.



My mum knows I love Real Techniques brushes so picked up the Expert Face Brush for me, however she accidentally ordered three somehow. I asked could I exchange one of them for a different brush and she said yes, we requested a return on Amazon and they accepted and told us not to bother returning the brush and refunded the money. I technically got a free brush, somehow!? And I've now ordered the Setting Brush. So lucky!



I've had my eye on the Stila palettes for a while and when my brother asked was there anything I wanted from the ASOS beauty sale for Christmas, I said I'd love this Stila Eyes are the Window Palette in Spirit. I definitely didn't think he'd get it for me and I was so shocked to open this on Christmas Day. Such a surprise and I'm so thankful!

Like I said earlier, my 'main' present from my parents was money. I also received money from my Nan, Grampy and Aunties etc so I shall be putting that money towards a new purse, probably more makeup and hopefully(if all goes to plan) driving lessons. I'm determined 2016 will be the year I start driving, we'll see eh?

There you have it, what I got for Christmas! I was spoilt this year, as I am every year and I couldn't be more thankful. Of course, Christmas isn't about receiving, it's for giving, loving and spending time with your loved ones. Gifts are just a bonus! I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and that Santa was kind to you!




I'd love to hear what you got for Christmas so feel free to leave a link in the comments to your post/video!




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Christmas Q&A | Films, Music, Plans and More!

Bet you weren't expecting to see a post from me today, eh!? As you may know, usually I post on Wednesday and Sunday, however I have a post planned to go up on Christmas Eve so I thought i'd spread them out a little and post my Q&A today. So I took to Instagram to ask you guys if you had any questions for me and a few of you did leave some so I shall be answering those first then afterwards will be questions left here on my blog. Let's just get started!

@thriftyvintagefashion and Grace Kate - What is your favourite Christmas film?

Polar Express, hands down! 

@thriftyvintagefashion - What is your favourite Christmas song?

I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday- Wizaard, Fairy Tale of New York- The Pogues, Do They Know It's Christmas- Band Aid, Happy Xmas(War Is Over)- John Lennon

@rosiemaearoha - Which countries do you want to visit?

I've actually done a blog post on this so if you'd like to read it, it's here. I really want to go to America and Lapland, especially at this time of year!

What are you planning on doing for Christmas this year?

The week of Christmas I have a Christmas party, I finish work, I'm going to see Aladdin in the theatre and for actual Christmas Day- I'll be staying at home with my family, having dinner, gift giving and consuming alcohol(just a little bit, I promise) Let me know your plans for Christmas in the comments!

@heyitisjess - Do you have any New Years resolutions?

I haven't thought about them just yet. I know everybody says it every year but I'd really like to eat better and exercise more. I did have a short spurt of it during the summer but I'd really like to get back on track and hopefully loose some weight too.

Amy Rose - What is your favourite part of Christmas dinner?

I love pigs in blankets and I actually really like sprouts!

What was the best present you got for Christmas?

This was a hard one! It'd probably have to be one of the gifts for me and my siblings to share. One year we had a Wii even though my parents had convinced us that they were sold out everywhere so we wouldn't be able to get one. It was such a surprise! Another would have to be the year myself and my siblings each had a laptop. It was the year everyone was getting them but I had never even thought about asking for one then all of a sudden my parents passed us each a largish box and it was a laptop, each! I was gobsmacked, there's actually a picture that captures that- haha!




Rosie Author Writing - In your opinion, what is the true meaning of Christmas?

I'd have to say spending time with your nearest and dearest, giving to others, especially those who need it most and being thankful.




And that's all the questions I was asked. I loved answering all of your questions, be sure to go check out the people who asked the questions on Instagram and their blogs which I've linked. I hope you enjoyed this quick post and are enjoying the festivities, Merry Christmas!




WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR CHRISTMAS?




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The Perfect Christmas Movie Night!

Christmas is next week, next week!? I know, crazy right? I can't believe we're less than 5 days until Christmas and I'm yet to have a movie night. Today I thought I'd share with you my perfect idea of a movie night which I shall be having on Tuesday evening as that's when I finish work for Christmas. I've also teamed up with Casper, a company that sells amazing mattresses here, to share with you my essentials for a movie night.

Casper was actually lovely enough to create this checklist for me, once I had given my input. You may like to use this or adapt it so feel free!

First up is a comfy mattress as there's no better feeling than jumping into bed in your festive pyjamas after a long day at work. Next up you'll need a pile of comfy cushions which Casper also sells, here. Does anyone else strategically place them for ultimate comfort whilst watching films?!

And of course as I briefly mentioned earlier, your favourite festive pyjamas! I love these navy bottoms with a reindeer print all over from F&F a year or so ago. I've also picked up a new tartan flannel pair which I'm excited to snuggle up in on Christmas Eve!

How can you have a movie night without some treats!? I love snuggling up in bed with a hot chocolate, at the moment I'm loving the Galaxy one. It's super sweet but definitely isn't sickly. I love dipping cookies into hot chocolate and tea so I definitely won't forget them!

My movie night sounds almost perfect, just a couple of things missing. I love lighting candles as they just set the mood and makes everything feel more cosy. My favourite festive candle is Yankee Candle Simply Home Sunlight On Snow which you may have seen me mentioned a good few times. It's more of a fresh scent rather than a sweet/spicy typical Christmas scent which I love.

And finally, a movie night is not complete without a few films! I recently did a blog post on my top five festive film picks here so head on over to check that out. There I mentioned my favourite was The Polar Express, I love how magical it is. It's such a lovely film and gets so excited for Christmas.

So there's that, my perfect set up for a holiday movie night! It was lovely to work with Casper on this post so be sure to go and check out their products, linked here. Also, I'd love to know what would make it to your checklist so let me know in the comments below.

WHAT ARE YOUR MOVIE NIGHT ESSENTIALS?

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My Top Five Festive Film Picks!

Today I thought i'd share with you my top five festive film picks. I don't tend to enjoy films often, my attention span is poor and I lose interest. However, I love Christmas films because, well how could you not!? If you're planning on binge watching Christmas films in the run up to the big day then I've listed my five favourites, starting from five and reeling them off til my ultimate favourite- number one. Let's get started, shall we?

5. A Christmas Carol (2009)

This stands a firm favourite as I first saw it in the cinema with my family on Christmas Eve. As well as being nostalgic, it's also a great film where it follows the life of Scrooge in the run up to Christmas. Of course, i'm not going to spoil it though I'm sure most of you will have seen it or know the story. The most recent release of it is definitely worth a watch!

4. Nativity!

This is one I watch numerous times in the month of December. As you could've probably guessed from the title this one is based around the preparations for a school nativity. It's a hilarious comedy, how can you not love Mr Poppy?! Also, fact of the day: one of the children in the film actually went to my primary school. How cool is that!?

3. Love Actually

Believe it or not, I had never seen this until last Christmas. So many people raved about it so I thought it was about time I saw what it was all about. I loved it, hence why it's made it's way into my top five. If you haven't seen it, the film basically follows a number of different couples during the run up to Christmas. I probably haven't made that sound too appealing but it's a rom-com so you definitely won't get bogged down with slushy couples. If you haven't seen it- make sure you give it a watch this year! Let me know what you think of it, if you do.

2. Home Alone

A classic. I'm almost certain that everyone has seen this film- if you haven't, you've probably been living under a rock. Is there really any point in trying to explain this film? The title gives it away right? I've seen this countless times and I never get bored of it, it's hilarious and i'm completely hooked within the first few minutes. The second film is also just as good, the ones after aren't so.

1. The Polar Express

You were expecting me to say Elf right? If i'm honest, it's never been a favourite of mine- don't get me wrong it is a good film but I can't take too much of it. The Polar Express however is a different story. It's just so magical and exciting. It follows the journey of a little boy who struggles to believe, he is taken on a journey to the North Pole that shows him the excitement never fades for those who believe. You'll also fall in love with the lone boy singing at the back of the train, 'it's so much fun when Christmas comes to townnn!' Just me? Ok then...

So there you have it, a run through of my favourite Christmas films. Do you love any of these as much as me? Let me know or leave me any festive film recommendations! I'll be back Sunday to share my idea of a perfect movie night!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS FILM?

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A New Job and Christmas Blogging Plans! | Update

Today I thought I'd have a little catch up with you guys to let you know what's going to be happening on my blog this next month or so.




As you may know back in July I qualified as a childcare practitioner and since then I've been looking for a job in the childcare field, I was unsuccessful so I decided I would do supply work as a Teaching Assistant. I really enjoyed myself whilst working as a TA and I would definitely consider it in the not too distant future. However, for now- I've just got myself a job as a Play Worker/Nursery Nurse in a near by playgroup/pre-school. I start next Monday and I'm super excited as my colleagues are so lovely, however it may be a little bit tricky to get posts up twice a week on a Wednesday and Sunday, unfortunately. 








However, Christmas is upon us and I've got lots of ideas that I really hope I can find the time to work on and get up. Recently I felt as though I had lost my blogging mojo and was lacking inspiration and that may have showed through. I hope it didn't and you stuck with me! I promise there's lot's more festivity coming your way as Christmas is my favourite time of year, so you can make sure you're up to date with me by following me here via bloglovin- if you want of course!








Also, something exciting for me and maybe for you too?! After umming and ahhing for a good while, I finally decided to get the Feel Unique 12 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar! I'm super excited as this is the first beauty advent calendar I've ever had so I'm looking forward to see what goodies lie beneath the doors. 

Now the exciting part for you guys, well maybe.. I'm debating whether to do a post each week on what I find(bearing in mind this will only be 3 items as the calendar is only 12 days) or whether to a post at the end of advent showing what I received in the whole calendar. I also thought it might be nice for you to see me open it, so instead I was wondering whether you'd like me to record myself opening each door and posting it on Instagram (@xtracesofmythoughts) then a month or so after, give a review on each of the items. Please let me know what you think in the comments below!




And that's all I've got to update you on, I think... I hope you're looking forward for what's to come on my blog, I know I'm excited to get in the festive mood! Just one month til Christmas guys! Also, let me know whether you've got any Christmassy posts planned! 

I shall be back on Sunday with a collab, so keep your eyes peeled!




HAVE YOU GOT ANY CHRISTMAS BLOG POSTS PLANNED?




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30 Beauty Questions | TAG

This week I've been quite busy so unfortunately I haven't had much time to think about or prepare a post for today. However, I didn't want to miss an upload day so I thought i'd take a look some beauty tags and I've chosen this one to share with you today. I'll try to make sure i'm on top form next week, so bare with me guys!

1. DO YOU REMEMBER YOUR FIRST MAKEUP ITEM?

I had to have a good think about this. I believe it was one of those makeup compacts with pink and blue eye shadows from Argos. I think I may still have it somewhere!

2. DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT MASCARA. HAVE YOU FOUND ONE THAT FITS YOUR SPECIFICATIONS? 

I really like long fluttery lashes, though the mascara must not be too wet nor too dry. I love the Benefit Roller Lash for this!

3. WHAT KIND OF COVERAGE DO YOU PREFER FROM FOUNDATION?

Medium. Something that can be worn as a natural everyday base but also can be built up to a high coverage when needed.

4. FAVOURITE HIGH END BRAND?

I haven't tried that many high end brands so it'd have to be Benefit.

5. WHAT COSMETICS BRANDS HAVE YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO TRY BUT STILL HAVEN'T?

MAC, Urban Decay and Laura Mercier!

6. FAVOURITE DRUGSTORE BRAND?

This was a tough one! It was between Rimmel and L'Oreal. I'd have to say Rimmel as I've tried and loved a lot more products from them!

7. DO YOU WEAR FAKE EYELASHES?

I've only worn individuals once or twice and I loved them! I think I should try them out again, go all fancy for the festive season coming up! Any recommendations?

8. IS THERE ANY KIND OF MAKEUP YOU CANT LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT?

Mascara, I feel that I look more awake and slightly more done up with a quick flick of mascara!

9. WHAT IS YOUR MOST CHERISHED BEAUTY PRODUCT?

I imagine this would usually be a high end product that you love but I don't have any full-sized high end products! I'd have to say L'Oreal True Match Foundation, it has been a solid favourite for over a year now!

10. HOW OFTEN DO YOU SHOP FOR MAKEUP? DO YOU PICK IT UP HERE AND THERE OR GET LOTS OF GOODIES AT ONCE?

I've never actually gone into Boots and done a huge shop. Though, I think I should after Christmas and get a whole load of products for a new year. I pick it up here and there!

11. DO YOU HAVE A BEAUTY BUDGET OR DO YOU SPEND FREELY?

I don't necessarily have a budget, but I do try not to spend too much on beauty products- hence why the majority of them are drugstore!

12. DO YOU UTILISE COUPONS, REWARDS CARDS AND SALES WHEN YOU SHOP FOR COSMETICS?

I pop coupons in my purse and forget about them! I always use my Boots and Superdrug points card and always browse in the sale!

13. WHAT TYPE OF PRODUCT DO YOU BUY THE MOST OF?

Lipsticks, definitely. I've told my mum that I won't buy anymore until after Christmas. Let's see how long this lasts!

14. IS THERE A BRAND YOU ABSOLUTELY CANT STAND?

I had a good think about this and I don't think there is! Miss Sporty reminds me of the time when I used to use cheap makeup from magazines, it didn't look too great but that was probably my fault. But I don't hate Miss Sporty as I've heard they actually have some really affordable and great products.

15. DO YOU AVOID CERTAIN INGREDIENTS IN COSMETICS LIKE PARABENS OR SULFATES?

Of course it's always a bonus if products don't have these but it's rare that I look up the ingredients of products which is really bad. I'm sure i'm not though only one though!

16. DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE PLACE TO SHOP FOR MAKEUP?

Boots and Superdrug. I used to love buying makeup from Frangrance Direct online though as they have super affordable makeup. I may just go have a browse now!

17. DO YOU LIKE TRYING NEW SKINCARE PRODUCTS OR DO YOU KEEP A CERTAIN ROUTINE?

I buy new skincare products quite often actually. I love trying new cleansers as i'm yet to find the perfect one for my skin. However, once I start using a product that I like- I do use it for a good while or until it's completely empty so I sort of stick to a routine.

18. FAVOURITE BATH AND BODY BRAND?

Soap and Glory. I've just been lusting over their amazing Christmas gift sets!

19. IF YOU COULD ONLY BUY FROM ONE BRAND, WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE?

This may seem a little odd as I've never actually tried anything from them but MAC. MAC just about do everything beauty wise and so many people rave about it!

20. WHAT BRAND DO YOU THINK HAS THE BEST PACKAGING?

Benefits packaging is really pretty!

21. WHICH CELEBRITY ALWAYS HAS GREAT MAKEUP?

I actually have no idea for this one. I only keep upto date with a handful of celebs and I rarely look at their makeup which is odd seeing as I love makeup a lot!

22. DO YOU BELONG TO ANY ONLINE BEAUTY COMMUNITIES?

The Beauty Blogger community, I guess!

23. 5 FAVOURITE BEAUTY GURUS

*Trawls through YouTube Subscriptions*
Amelia Liana
Fleur De Force
Laura Black
Miss Budget Beauty
Vivianna Does Makeup
one more, maybe?
Lily Pebbles

24. DO YOU LIKE MULTI-FUNCTIONAL PRODUCTS LIKE LIP AND CHEEK STAINS?

They're handy, yes! I don't really use lip and cheek stains. I do use an eye shadow on my eyes and as a highlight though!

25. ARE YOU CLUMSY WHEN PUTTING MAKEUP ON?

I'm not the best, I do try though! I have had countless eye makeup disasters which I've had to frantically wipe away and do my standard everyday neutral look!

26. DO YOU USE A MAKEUP BASE/PRIMER FOR THE EYES?

I usually use the remains on my fingers of my face primer and just pat it into my lids. Some people use their concealer too, don't they?

27. HOW MANY HAIR PRODUCTS DO YOU USE ON A TYPICAL DAY?

If i'm washing my hair, 4(shampoo, conditioner, serum and heat protector). If not then 2(heat protector and dry shampoo).

28. WHAT DO YOU APPLY FIRST? CONCEALER OR FOUNDATION?

I used to apply concealer first but I was technically rubbing it off when applying foundation so now, it's always foundation first!

29. DO YOU EVER CONSIDER TAKING MAKEUP CLASSES?

Always! I'd love to learn how to professionally apply makeup. However, there are only a couple near me which either don't have very good reviews or are super expensive!

30. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT MAKEUP?
I love how much makeup can change the way you look by enhancing your best features. Makeup also changes the way you feel about yourself, you can feel so much more confident and put together with makeup. I love to experiment with makeup, is it sad to say that makeup brings me joy?

I really enjoy reading tags so I hope this one hasn't been too boring!
I'm not going to tag anyone in particular as I know it can be difficult to keep on top of tags you've been tagged to complete. Feel free to do this tag if you please, let me know if you do it and i'll definitely go and check it out!

WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN UP TO THIS WEEK?

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