Hi Guys!
I feel like to start the Christmas posts off with a bang I have to introduce it all with a Q&A! I personally love reading these or watching them on YouTube so I hope you enjoy this one too!
1. Do you do anything whilst counting down to the day?
I wouldn't say it's anything out of the ordinary, but I always have one or two advent calendars every year. As each day goes by, I end up feeling more and more festive and no one ever gets too old for these! I also have red and white counting blocks in my bedroom which I change everyday.
2. When do you put up your tree and/or other decorations?
I don't have an annual day for putting up my tree or decorating my house but it's usually the first weekend of December and I put my decorations on the same day I put up my tree. This years theme, for me, is red and white.
3. What goes on the top of your tree?
Always been a star for me.
4. Any Christmas pet peeves?
I love everything Christmas themed. However I have an irrational fear of ice and I don't like the frequency of viruses that get passed around - but I don't think anybody does.
5. What do you eat for Christmas dinner?
It is different every year. There is no consistency for me and my family. The meat always differs as sometimes we have pork or chicken, but this year we are having the traditional turkey. However we always dress up our plates with roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, mash, honey roasted carrots and parsnips, peas, gravy and for those weridos; Brussel sprouts.
6. Do you have any traditions?
I believe that everybody's Christmas is individual to them and that individuality comes from the traditions people adopt. Every year we categorise the baubles before putting them on the tree and play charades.
7. Do you leave anything out for Santa Claus?
I used to when I was younger. I believe it used to be either mince pies or a cookie with a glass of milk.
8. When do you open your gifts?
As soon as I wake up Christmas morning.
9. What would you like for Christmas this year?
I'm awful - because I forget what's on my list every year. I definitely want a new fluffy dressing gown, a mac #15 eye-shadow palette, a new hair-dryer (my old one mysteriously disappeared) and other stuff, which at this moment, I cannot name.
10. Do you attend any religious services?
Sadly, I'm not religious but, as superficial as it sounds, I do think churches look extremely beautiful this time of year, especially when the roofs are dusted in snow.
11. What is your most favourite thing about Christmas?
I love the countdown till' Christmas probably more than the day itself. Everyone walks around with a mega buzz surrounding them and everywhere looks so festive and picturesque.
12. Do you prefer to give or receive?
For everyone that gives, there is someone that receives; so I think its fair to say I love to do both. I love seeing people's faces light up when they open a present I've lovingly chosen and wrapped, but I also love getting things I've longed for all year too. I'm very grateful for everything I'm given.
And that's my Christmas Q&A!
Happy Holidays!
ThatGirlWhoBlogs x
Monday, 14 December 2015
Sunday, 13 December 2015
Festivities
Hi all!
I'm back! Been completely congested with work and life and haven't left myself time to blog! Feel like my world has totally been knocked sideways and I feel so unorganised and out of sync. However I am willing to get back on track and prepare loads of Christmas themed posts, some being with the help of Tamzin!
So, it's only 12 days till' Christmas. I must admit, this year I am totally organised and have all the cards written and all my presents wrapped. This is so unlike me so this isn't a bragging type of post, this is just a fluke. Usually, every year I am so unprepared; with wrapping ripping, bows disappearing, pen ink dribbling and smudging across the crisp pages of card. But this year I'm on it and am endeavouring to get the most out of my Christmas and all the great things that come with it: The films, the food, the decorations, the excitement etc. Because, normally, I get so caught up in focusing on the day itself, that I waste the beautiful joy of the build up to the 25th.
I've been really good at maintaining my low anxiety levels recently, although I feel I let myself down with a massive panic attack a couple of days ago. I'm really annoyed at myself, even though it's nothing I can control, as much as I would like to. The bad thing is, panic attacks, for me, take forever to shake off and it seems like forever to achieve the 100% tip-top feeling I felt before it happened and I'm praying it doesn't affect my Christmas spirit and countdown, because it is something I'm really treasuring.
This is kind of a little update, since I've been gone for a few weeks but there will be more entertaining posts soon. Once there is no more work and I have more free time, the posts will increase and my dedication will completely be for you guys and this blog. Expect some Christmas decorating posts, some Christmas tags, baking and much, much more!
I'm back! Been completely congested with work and life and haven't left myself time to blog! Feel like my world has totally been knocked sideways and I feel so unorganised and out of sync. However I am willing to get back on track and prepare loads of Christmas themed posts, some being with the help of Tamzin!
So, it's only 12 days till' Christmas. I must admit, this year I am totally organised and have all the cards written and all my presents wrapped. This is so unlike me so this isn't a bragging type of post, this is just a fluke. Usually, every year I am so unprepared; with wrapping ripping, bows disappearing, pen ink dribbling and smudging across the crisp pages of card. But this year I'm on it and am endeavouring to get the most out of my Christmas and all the great things that come with it: The films, the food, the decorations, the excitement etc. Because, normally, I get so caught up in focusing on the day itself, that I waste the beautiful joy of the build up to the 25th.
I've been really good at maintaining my low anxiety levels recently, although I feel I let myself down with a massive panic attack a couple of days ago. I'm really annoyed at myself, even though it's nothing I can control, as much as I would like to. The bad thing is, panic attacks, for me, take forever to shake off and it seems like forever to achieve the 100% tip-top feeling I felt before it happened and I'm praying it doesn't affect my Christmas spirit and countdown, because it is something I'm really treasuring.
This is kind of a little update, since I've been gone for a few weeks but there will be more entertaining posts soon. Once there is no more work and I have more free time, the posts will increase and my dedication will completely be for you guys and this blog. Expect some Christmas decorating posts, some Christmas tags, baking and much, much more!
Bye for now!
ThatGirlWhoBlogs x
Wednesday, 25 November 2015
I Got You Babe
Hi Guys,
I've done a few beauty posts recently and really wanted to focus on something anxiety related. I've suffered with anxiety for around 6 years and over that time, have discovered some great ways to cope with it. Even if you don't have anxiety, you may find some of these tips helpful if you are having a difficult time at the minute, are having stress symptoms, or need to restrain from knocking someone down a peg or two ;)
1. Remove Yourself From The Situation
This is my personal favourite and is something I don't do often enough. I'm one of those people who love a bit of gossip and can't resist poking my nose into places where it shouldn't be. However, when it comes to things that induce anxiety or even anger, it's probably best just to walk away to give yourself time to think clearly, before responding to the situation. Nothing is worse than lashing out, because you are feeling anxious and then regretting it later.
2. Remember That People Don't Know As Much As You Think
The title is a bit of a mind boggle, I agree. But, like all of these tips, the theory is quite simple to put in place. For people who get anxious, the most important thing to have is support. Getting the right type of support, trusting the right people and getting them to say things that you're gonna' find helpful is hard, because every situation is different. I've had panic attacks before, where I've seeked reassurance from my friends or family and because they didn't say what I wanted to hear, I've become even more stressed. Therefore, when you feel nervous or feel anxiety creeping up on you, stop, think and decide which step you want to take next. Is it reassurance you are looking for? Or is the answer one you already have?
3. Breathe
It seems silly to offer this as a tip, but it's really important. Humans breathe all the time, but in the midst of every day life, it's very unusual for people to just stop and take a breath. At the end of the day, when you think about it, there is a crucial difference between just breathing and taking a breath. If life is getting too heavy, just STOP! Wherever you are you can always just stop. If you are in class, put down your pen even if it's just for a second. If you are in the middle of a crazy crowd, find a shop, walk into it, and take a breath. No matter what you are doing, remember to take time for yourself and to breathe deep breaths when things get too much.
4. Imagine
Who else sang John Lennon in their head then? Ha Ha! Seriously, I heard about this one from a professional and for some people, this really works. The key is to fully occupy the space you are in and to imagine you are somewhere that makes you feel calm and at peace within the bustling world. Then, as you notice the knots in your stomach unwinding and your heart coming down to a steady pace, visualise your anxiety or anger, as a ball of energy. It's buzzing around inside of you, waiting to get out. But you control your body and your mind. Move an arm or a leg as if to prove to your mind that you control your own doings. Finally, imagine you can touch the ball of fiery energy and press it inwards, until it becomes small and almost insignificant. At the end of these steps, you should feel much better and your head, clearer.
5. Make Your Feelings Known
Whatever you do, don't take this as a will to behave badly! When I say make your feelings known, I mean find someone to talk to, who you trust and can rely on, instead of keeping your emotions and thoughts bottled up. Anxiety can play on the brain a lot and releasing some of these thoughts onto someone else, who understands you, can be a big help. If you are alone, or can't think who to have a chat with, grab a clean page or a notebook and unscramble your thoughts by constructing them as sentences. This helps you make sense of the babble in your head and feel that lovely clarity.
Remember I'm always here for you and you can contact me by following me on Twitter @izzyc_blogs
Hugs and Kisses
ThatGirlWhoBlogs x
I've done a few beauty posts recently and really wanted to focus on something anxiety related. I've suffered with anxiety for around 6 years and over that time, have discovered some great ways to cope with it. Even if you don't have anxiety, you may find some of these tips helpful if you are having a difficult time at the minute, are having stress symptoms, or need to restrain from knocking someone down a peg or two ;)
1. Remove Yourself From The Situation
This is my personal favourite and is something I don't do often enough. I'm one of those people who love a bit of gossip and can't resist poking my nose into places where it shouldn't be. However, when it comes to things that induce anxiety or even anger, it's probably best just to walk away to give yourself time to think clearly, before responding to the situation. Nothing is worse than lashing out, because you are feeling anxious and then regretting it later.
2. Remember That People Don't Know As Much As You Think
The title is a bit of a mind boggle, I agree. But, like all of these tips, the theory is quite simple to put in place. For people who get anxious, the most important thing to have is support. Getting the right type of support, trusting the right people and getting them to say things that you're gonna' find helpful is hard, because every situation is different. I've had panic attacks before, where I've seeked reassurance from my friends or family and because they didn't say what I wanted to hear, I've become even more stressed. Therefore, when you feel nervous or feel anxiety creeping up on you, stop, think and decide which step you want to take next. Is it reassurance you are looking for? Or is the answer one you already have?
3. Breathe
It seems silly to offer this as a tip, but it's really important. Humans breathe all the time, but in the midst of every day life, it's very unusual for people to just stop and take a breath. At the end of the day, when you think about it, there is a crucial difference between just breathing and taking a breath. If life is getting too heavy, just STOP! Wherever you are you can always just stop. If you are in class, put down your pen even if it's just for a second. If you are in the middle of a crazy crowd, find a shop, walk into it, and take a breath. No matter what you are doing, remember to take time for yourself and to breathe deep breaths when things get too much.
4. Imagine
Who else sang John Lennon in their head then? Ha Ha! Seriously, I heard about this one from a professional and for some people, this really works. The key is to fully occupy the space you are in and to imagine you are somewhere that makes you feel calm and at peace within the bustling world. Then, as you notice the knots in your stomach unwinding and your heart coming down to a steady pace, visualise your anxiety or anger, as a ball of energy. It's buzzing around inside of you, waiting to get out. But you control your body and your mind. Move an arm or a leg as if to prove to your mind that you control your own doings. Finally, imagine you can touch the ball of fiery energy and press it inwards, until it becomes small and almost insignificant. At the end of these steps, you should feel much better and your head, clearer.
5. Make Your Feelings Known
Whatever you do, don't take this as a will to behave badly! When I say make your feelings known, I mean find someone to talk to, who you trust and can rely on, instead of keeping your emotions and thoughts bottled up. Anxiety can play on the brain a lot and releasing some of these thoughts onto someone else, who understands you, can be a big help. If you are alone, or can't think who to have a chat with, grab a clean page or a notebook and unscramble your thoughts by constructing them as sentences. This helps you make sense of the babble in your head and feel that lovely clarity.
Remember I'm always here for you and you can contact me by following me on Twitter @izzyc_blogs
Hugs and Kisses
ThatGirlWhoBlogs x
Saturday, 21 November 2015
15 Facts About Me
Hi Guys,
Just a simple post today!
1. I would much prefer to be inside an enclosed space than in an open area
2. I adore tea and love it with lots of milk and one sugar
3. I prefer dark, berry toned lipsticks over pinky tones any day
4. My all time favourite song is Master Pretender by First Aid Kit
5. As well as anxiety I also have OCD
6. I have a massive sweet tooth and am a huge lover of things like ice-cream, cakes and chocolate
7. Sometimes, I can accidentally contradict myself and get myself into some right messes
8. I have a passion for literature and like to read in my spare time
9. My favourite book is Gone Girl (psst, I didn't like the film as much)
10. I am obsessed with Candles, the Yankee Candle brand is my favourite
11. Co-coordinating with the above fact, I have to have candle scents to match the season
12. I like to sing (badly) especially retro songs like 'If I could Turn Back Time' or songs from musicals
13. Personally, I'm more of a TV person than a film person, but love franchises.
14. I hate science fiction films
15. If I chip my nail polish or smudge it, I have to take it all off and start again, otherwise it distresses me
Lots of Love,
ThatGirlWhoBlogs
Just a simple post today!
1. I would much prefer to be inside an enclosed space than in an open area
2. I adore tea and love it with lots of milk and one sugar
3. I prefer dark, berry toned lipsticks over pinky tones any day
4. My all time favourite song is Master Pretender by First Aid Kit
5. As well as anxiety I also have OCD
6. I have a massive sweet tooth and am a huge lover of things like ice-cream, cakes and chocolate
7. Sometimes, I can accidentally contradict myself and get myself into some right messes
8. I have a passion for literature and like to read in my spare time
9. My favourite book is Gone Girl (psst, I didn't like the film as much)
10. I am obsessed with Candles, the Yankee Candle brand is my favourite
11. Co-coordinating with the above fact, I have to have candle scents to match the season
12. I like to sing (badly) especially retro songs like 'If I could Turn Back Time' or songs from musicals
13. Personally, I'm more of a TV person than a film person, but love franchises.
14. I hate science fiction films
15. If I chip my nail polish or smudge it, I have to take it all off and start again, otherwise it distresses me
Lots of Love,
ThatGirlWhoBlogs
Saturday, 14 November 2015
I'm Just A Vintage Soul
Hi Guys,
I went into town again with one of my most loved friends Tamzin. We went with the idea of doing some vintage shopping, before discovering that novelty items are quite expensive and with just £7 in my purse, it probably wasn't going to be enough. However, we had a good mooch around and ended up skipping in the rain and laughing, whilst our hair was being sprawled across our faces in the wind.
The shops we visited were lovely and if I was a millionaire I probably would have bought the whole of every shop. Below are some pictures of little gems we saw inside or along the way, enjoy!
I went into town again with one of my most loved friends Tamzin. We went with the idea of doing some vintage shopping, before discovering that novelty items are quite expensive and with just £7 in my purse, it probably wasn't going to be enough. However, we had a good mooch around and ended up skipping in the rain and laughing, whilst our hair was being sprawled across our faces in the wind.
The shops we visited were lovely and if I was a millionaire I probably would have bought the whole of every shop. Below are some pictures of little gems we saw inside or along the way, enjoy!
Lots of love to those who need it,
#PrayForParis
ThatGirlWhoBlogs
Friday, 13 November 2015
Clinique All About Shadow Quad In Pink Chocolate
Hi Guys,
I thought I'd return with another make-up post, since I've recently rekindled my love for the Clinique Quad in Pink Chocolate.
This was gifted to me about 18 months ago and I loved it and then, as newer products came to my attention, it kind of sunk to the bottom of my make-up bag. But, in the past few weeks, I feel as though I've been given this for the first time and am appreciating it much more than I did when I first got it!
I've looked on the Clinique website at this quad and I think that the packaging has changed, but the colours are still the same and are as beautiful as they always have been. There are four shades, hence it being a quad, one a pale matte pink, the second an almost matte light brown, the other a shimmery pink and the final shadow a lovely dark brown, perfect for the outer corners of the eye. I would say all the shadows have an element of sparkle in there, which I like, but the first and second are definitely less shimmery than the final two.
The packaging has a mirrored effect and is very sleek and slim, ideal for travelling. All of the shadows blend well and and compliment each other perfectly. I like to wear the pink one all over the lid, with the light brown in the crease, blended into the middle and the dark, chocolatey colour on the outer corners.
At £29.00, this product is certainly a luxury item, but will take you through from Spring to Winter. My tip, for this time of year, would be to use the second one all over the lid, and just the last shade in the crease with a nude lip... utter perfection!
Au Revoir Mes Amis!
ThatGirlWhoBlogs x
I thought I'd return with another make-up post, since I've recently rekindled my love for the Clinique Quad in Pink Chocolate.
Au Revoir Mes Amis!
ThatGirlWhoBlogs x
Wednesday, 11 November 2015
Book Worm Wednesday
Hi Guys,
Something a bit different today - a post about a book. You may not know that I am a massive book worm! I have always had a passion for reading and writing books since I was very young and I would like to start to do these "Book Worm Wednesday" posts as a bit of a series. So, every time I've read a book, I'll give you a small run down and a review. This may not appeal to some readers but I think that a few of you may share my love for reading and be interested in my opinion on various novels. It might even inspire some of you to read more, if you catch a post about a particularly great book.
Over the past 6 months or so I've been reading John Greens 'Paper Towns'. Usually it doesn't take me that long to get through a book, but I read the first half in about 3 weeks,before a crazy period came up in my life and reading was just not a priority. I then read the second half within 2 weeks and this book really got me back into reading and encouraged me to make more time for things that I love to do. I adore nothing more than snuggling down, my fairy lights in behind me, with a good book.
The story focuses on the main character, a teenage boy called Quentin. When he was a child, he discovered the body of a man, who had committed suicide, with his best friend Margo. Since he was young, as well as being his best friend, Margo was also his crush. However, now the two have grown up, circumstances have made the two grow apart. Margo has become popular and Quentin fades into the background, but loves the friends he has. One night, Margo jumps through Quentin's window and the two go on a wild escapade, pranking the people who have wronged the two of them. Shortly after this, Margo goes missing and Quentin is left heartbroken, constantly wondering about what could have been. Then he finds clues, that he believes could leave him to Margo's disappearance.
I'm not going to delve any more into the story, as much as I would like to, just in case any of you are reading this novel at the moment or are interested in reading it.
I liked the simple storyline of this book and generally love John Green as writer. I tried this book out, purely because I fell in love with 'The Fault In Our Stars' and John Greens use of words. I think that, as an author, he looks into the deeper meaning of things and truly understands the significance of life and looks at ways different characters see the world and the journey of their own lives. There is a lot of deeper meaning behind this novel, and despite the ending not being as I had hoped, I really enjoyed how John Green presented it. I like love stories and with the element of mystery there, it made the plot unique. However, some parts were slightly drawn out and I felt like some of the mystery bits could have been made more interesting to really give a sense of tension and anticipation. On the other hand, I thought it was good to have the story written from a males perspective as so many romance novels are from a females point of view. You truly develop a soft spot for Quentin and there is some comedic content that makes the novel a joyful read and really witty. I would say that any genre would get on well with this book but, considering the age of it's characters, is probably aimed towards people aged between 11 and 17. But ,of course, I'm sure anyone would find this book a delightful read! Overall, I would give 'Paper Towns' an 8/10
Also, follow me for blog updates on twitter
Bye,
ThatGirlWhoBlogs
Something a bit different today - a post about a book. You may not know that I am a massive book worm! I have always had a passion for reading and writing books since I was very young and I would like to start to do these "Book Worm Wednesday" posts as a bit of a series. So, every time I've read a book, I'll give you a small run down and a review. This may not appeal to some readers but I think that a few of you may share my love for reading and be interested in my opinion on various novels. It might even inspire some of you to read more, if you catch a post about a particularly great book.
Over the past 6 months or so I've been reading John Greens 'Paper Towns'. Usually it doesn't take me that long to get through a book, but I read the first half in about 3 weeks,before a crazy period came up in my life and reading was just not a priority. I then read the second half within 2 weeks and this book really got me back into reading and encouraged me to make more time for things that I love to do. I adore nothing more than snuggling down, my fairy lights in behind me, with a good book.
The story focuses on the main character, a teenage boy called Quentin. When he was a child, he discovered the body of a man, who had committed suicide, with his best friend Margo. Since he was young, as well as being his best friend, Margo was also his crush. However, now the two have grown up, circumstances have made the two grow apart. Margo has become popular and Quentin fades into the background, but loves the friends he has. One night, Margo jumps through Quentin's window and the two go on a wild escapade, pranking the people who have wronged the two of them. Shortly after this, Margo goes missing and Quentin is left heartbroken, constantly wondering about what could have been. Then he finds clues, that he believes could leave him to Margo's disappearance.
I'm not going to delve any more into the story, as much as I would like to, just in case any of you are reading this novel at the moment or are interested in reading it.
I liked the simple storyline of this book and generally love John Green as writer. I tried this book out, purely because I fell in love with 'The Fault In Our Stars' and John Greens use of words. I think that, as an author, he looks into the deeper meaning of things and truly understands the significance of life and looks at ways different characters see the world and the journey of their own lives. There is a lot of deeper meaning behind this novel, and despite the ending not being as I had hoped, I really enjoyed how John Green presented it. I like love stories and with the element of mystery there, it made the plot unique. However, some parts were slightly drawn out and I felt like some of the mystery bits could have been made more interesting to really give a sense of tension and anticipation. On the other hand, I thought it was good to have the story written from a males perspective as so many romance novels are from a females point of view. You truly develop a soft spot for Quentin and there is some comedic content that makes the novel a joyful read and really witty. I would say that any genre would get on well with this book but, considering the age of it's characters, is probably aimed towards people aged between 11 and 17. But ,of course, I'm sure anyone would find this book a delightful read! Overall, I would give 'Paper Towns' an 8/10
Also, follow me for blog updates on twitter
Bye,
ThatGirlWhoBlogs
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