thoughts
If you follow my Instagram at all you’ll have possibly seen last night's blogging meltdown. You know the ones, where an idea seems good at the time but when you try it, it all goes pear shaped. For me that turned out to be Wordpress and self-hosted. Wherever you look nowadays it feels like every blogger on the planet has made the switch from good old blogger/blogspot to more advanced methods. There's 101 guides, lists and tips out there promising to make the leap between the two seamless and easy, which if that’s worked for you then fair enough. For me however I think it’s just not meant to be.


First off I didn’t realise how bloody expensive it is! Sure I knew about the usual hosting sites/domain deals out there and did manage to find one that seemed good, but it’s everything else that goes on top that no one tells you about! The framework of a standard Wordpress theme and then the fancy blogger-esque theme to pop over that. Then the price increases that skyrocket after X amount of months. Or the add-ons it keeps trying to shove at you everywhere you click. Thankfully I’ve been lucky enough to find both a hosting site and a framework site that included a 30 day money back guarantee (I tried using Genesis as that seems to be the big thing) so both those refunds are heading back my way. Touch wood. Then there’s the option to use a migration service before you even get started towards any of that. Something I didn’t actually do as I found a handy-dandy guide on google that was sorta simple enough to follow.

why i decided against wordpress & self-hosting.
If you follow my Instagram at all you’ll have possibly seen last night's blogging meltdown. You know the ones, where an idea seems good at the time but when you try it, it all goes pear shaped. For me that turned out to be Wordpress and self-hosted. Wherever you look nowadays it feels like every blogger on the planet has made the switch from good old blogger/blogspot to more advanced methods. There's 101 guides, lists and tips out there promising to make the leap between the two seamless and easy, which if that’s worked for you then fair enough. For me however I think it’s just not meant to be.


First off I didn’t realise how bloody expensive it is! Sure I knew about the usual hosting sites/domain deals out there and did manage to find one that seemed good, but it’s everything else that goes on top that no one tells you about! The framework of a standard Wordpress theme and then the fancy blogger-esque theme to pop over that. Then the price increases that skyrocket after X amount of months. Or the add-ons it keeps trying to shove at you everywhere you click. Thankfully I’ve been lucky enough to find both a hosting site and a framework site that included a 30 day money back guarantee (I tried using Genesis as that seems to be the big thing) so both those refunds are heading back my way. Touch wood. Then there’s the option to use a migration service before you even get started towards any of that. Something I didn’t actually do as I found a handy-dandy guide on google that was sorta simple enough to follow.

Read more »
What did I tell you? These posts may be a little sporadic and this month’s pretty much proved that. I have been meaning to post but in all honesty, February was a constant up and down both health wise and mentally that I decided to try not to worry about not posting much and focus a little bit more on myself.



HEALTH.
I guess probably the most important thing to update you all on is the usual ongoing health issues. Living with a chronic issue is never really easy but touch wood I think I’ve finally found the right combinations of medicines that work for me. Touch wood! I’m really hoping I’ve not just jinxed this and fucked it all up.

After a disgustingly awful month and a half of my stomach having a complete mind of it’s own and unable to pretty much retain anything (I’ll save you all the gory details) I’ve found that cutting one of the main tablets I’m on down by half has (again touch wood) pretty much knocked that problem on the head for now. Of course it doesn’t do much about the whole host of other complications but it’s certainly a start.

I also had to have another Hydrogen Breath Test. Perhaps the most mundane and dull test in the world but at least it didn’t involve any canulas so I’d take that over anything any day. As suspected there’s still a rather high level of bacteria in my small and large intestines so I’ve been back on the antibiotics to try and help with that but apparently it’s a pretty much ‘chicken and the egg’ scenario. As my stomach isn’t functioning or even working properly it’s in a constant state of creating harmful bacteria (apparently), so it’s mostly just a case of constant monitoring and seeing how we go.

I’ve also just had my first root canal thanks to some bad fillings done by my old dentist. It wasn’t the nicest experience in the world but now I’ve switched to a new practise and dentist (who’s incredibly lovely by the way) it wasn’t as bad as I’d worried. You always hear so many horror stories but touch wood I think it’s really helped. Thank god!


LIFE.
Health issues aside, life seems to be going okay right now. Again, all touch wood and everything. I’ve got quite a few blog posts in mind and semi/kinda half drafted… or at least in bullet point form. All I need to do now is properly type them up and get them posted. No matter how much I ramble on and go off topic whilst trying to make them make even the slightest bit of sense.

FUN.
Tickets for My Chemical Romance are now (finally) in place for June and I can't wait. However, with everything happening around the world right now I’m keeping everything crossed and silently hoping and praying that everything will be on track and go accordingly. It’s just such a shame that so many poor people are falling ill right now. Hopefully there’ll be some breakthrough or vaccine ASAP and everyone affected can start getting better. Roll on a happier, warmer and safer June.

BIRTHDAY.
Lastly, I turned 28 which is pretty terrifying to be honest as I swear I only turned 18 last year. Actually amazed at where the years have gone and how that’s happened. Not to sound too much like a hypochondriac or anything. I think with all the complications and issues with my stomach some days I do worry here and there. But yay for my 28th year on earth! It was a pretty quiet day as the weather was absolutely bloody awful. Talk about a rainstorm! But it actually made it really relaxed and just less of a rush. Plus with a bit of a mini flare up in the morning – always typical! It really took the pressure off a bit of having to go out somewhere, find a place I can actually eat and then try and manage to get through a whole meal. In the end we just ordered some really delicious vegan pizza and stayed tucked up at home. Much more cozy and my kind of vibe.



I think that’s it for now. All in all nothing too amazing or exciting to report but please keep an eye on my Instagram for more daily updates, outfit posts and general rabbiting on. Thanks for reading.

— j

  • Saturday, March 07, 2020

february catch up.
What did I tell you? These posts may be a little sporadic and this month’s pretty much proved that. I have been meaning to post but in all honesty, February was a constant up and down both health wise and mentally that I decided to try not to worry about not posting much and focus a little bit more on myself.



HEALTH.
I guess probably the most important thing to update you all on is the usual ongoing health issues. Living with a chronic issue is never really easy but touch wood I think I’ve finally found the right combinations of medicines that work for me. Touch wood! I’m really hoping I’ve not just jinxed this and fucked it all up.

After a disgustingly awful month and a half of my stomach having a complete mind of it’s own and unable to pretty much retain anything (I’ll save you all the gory details) I’ve found that cutting one of the main tablets I’m on down by half has (again touch wood) pretty much knocked that problem on the head for now. Of course it doesn’t do much about the whole host of other complications but it’s certainly a start.

I also had to have another Hydrogen Breath Test. Perhaps the most mundane and dull test in the world but at least it didn’t involve any canulas so I’d take that over anything any day. As suspected there’s still a rather high level of bacteria in my small and large intestines so I’ve been back on the antibiotics to try and help with that but apparently it’s a pretty much ‘chicken and the egg’ scenario. As my stomach isn’t functioning or even working properly it’s in a constant state of creating harmful bacteria (apparently), so it’s mostly just a case of constant monitoring and seeing how we go.

I’ve also just had my first root canal thanks to some bad fillings done by my old dentist. It wasn’t the nicest experience in the world but now I’ve switched to a new practise and dentist (who’s incredibly lovely by the way) it wasn’t as bad as I’d worried. You always hear so many horror stories but touch wood I think it’s really helped. Thank god!


LIFE.
Health issues aside, life seems to be going okay right now. Again, all touch wood and everything. I’ve got quite a few blog posts in mind and semi/kinda half drafted… or at least in bullet point form. All I need to do now is properly type them up and get them posted. No matter how much I ramble on and go off topic whilst trying to make them make even the slightest bit of sense.

FUN.
Tickets for My Chemical Romance are now (finally) in place for June and I can't wait. However, with everything happening around the world right now I’m keeping everything crossed and silently hoping and praying that everything will be on track and go accordingly. It’s just such a shame that so many poor people are falling ill right now. Hopefully there’ll be some breakthrough or vaccine ASAP and everyone affected can start getting better. Roll on a happier, warmer and safer June.

BIRTHDAY.
Lastly, I turned 28 which is pretty terrifying to be honest as I swear I only turned 18 last year. Actually amazed at where the years have gone and how that’s happened. Not to sound too much like a hypochondriac or anything. I think with all the complications and issues with my stomach some days I do worry here and there. But yay for my 28th year on earth! It was a pretty quiet day as the weather was absolutely bloody awful. Talk about a rainstorm! But it actually made it really relaxed and just less of a rush. Plus with a bit of a mini flare up in the morning – always typical! It really took the pressure off a bit of having to go out somewhere, find a place I can actually eat and then try and manage to get through a whole meal. In the end we just ordered some really delicious vegan pizza and stayed tucked up at home. Much more cozy and my kind of vibe.



I think that’s it for now. All in all nothing too amazing or exciting to report but please keep an eye on my Instagram for more daily updates, outfit posts and general rabbiting on. Thanks for reading.

— j

Read more »
January always brings a sense of starting over and the idea of a clean slate for the new year ahead. My 2018 wasn't great. There were constant ups and downs, my mental health really took a battering and sometimes I struggled to look forwards as all I could see was this neverending chronic illness that’d taken over my life. I want 2020 to be different and more positive, even if it's just a few little steps forwards or things to look forwards to/plan each month, at least it's somewhere to start off from. So I thought I’d try my best to put together a list of things I’d either like to achieve or will hopefully get to do each month. 


JANUARY

READ MORE BOOKS.
I’ve always been a massive bookworm but over the past few months I’ve found myself reaching for physical books less and less simply due to health, time and all the hours wasted I’ve spent mindlessly scrolling through Twitter (a habit I want to change). Luckily I received a few over Christmas or picked up in the sales/local charity shops so my main goal for 2020 is to finish those. There are six in total so in theory it should be easy. 

CONTINUE WORK ON MY PHYSICAL HEALTH.
This one’s a bit tricky as there’s no quick or easy fix. There’s also still no definitive cause or singular event my consultants can pinpoint as to what caused all this. It’s just a case of continuing to try different combinations of medicines to see what works the best with what. I’m just hoping that now we’re approaching being two years in to the physical symptoms (although in hindsight I’ve had symptoms here and there all my life) that there’s some sort of way to get and keep everything under control more effectively than it currently is.

WORK ON MY MENTAL HEALTH.
Something just as important as physical health is mental health and in all honesty, it’s really taken a sledgehammer of a battering with all that's gone on. Some days are good but there's others which sadly have been getting more and more frequent that I haven’t been able to do much besides cry, curl into a ball under five blankets and stare blankly into space whilst my thoughts spiral out of control. I want to try and not let everything get to me as much, which believe me is hard but I’m willing to give it my best shot this year.

GET TICKETS FOR THE MCR REUNION/TOUR.
Just putting it out positively into the world as I know trying to get tickets will be utter carnage. But I can positively dream and at least hope the universe gives me this one thing. Hoping that if I mention it enough it’ll happen so sorry if you've been listening to my endless prattling on since Halloween. 

BE MORE SUSTAINABLE & SHOP LESS.
Going completely in the opposite direction of what I’ve just said, I want 2020 to be the year I try and shop less, stop buying things I don’t really need and try to live a bit more eco friendly. I went pescitarian early last year both through choice and because my stomach can no longer digest meat or most dairy products. It’s not the biggest step but I like to think of it as a start. I’ve personally found it’s easier for me to eat more plant based leaning diets and there’s so many amazing vegan/veggie products on the market now that you’re really spoilt for choice. I’ve got my eye on the new Stella McCartney veggie chicken box and the Wagamama’s vegan katsu curry (just typing it is making me hungry!) I also have been having the best luck recently in charity shops, vintage emporiums and Depop when it comes to clothes, vinyls and other bits and pieces. I think it's just all about keeping a look out and trying to find it for the best price whilst also giving secondhand items and new home. I might actually put together a post about my best thrift/secondhand/Depop finds if anyones interested.

I’ll leave it there for now as I don't want to weigh myself down with a ridiculously long list for just one month but if you have any goals or plans in mind I’d love to hear about them.
- j
  • Sunday, January 05, 2020

monthly plans: janurary.
January always brings a sense of starting over and the idea of a clean slate for the new year ahead. My 2018 wasn't great. There were constant ups and downs, my mental health really took a battering and sometimes I struggled to look forwards as all I could see was this neverending chronic illness that’d taken over my life. I want 2020 to be different and more positive, even if it's just a few little steps forwards or things to look forwards to/plan each month, at least it's somewhere to start off from. So I thought I’d try my best to put together a list of things I’d either like to achieve or will hopefully get to do each month. 


JANUARY

READ MORE BOOKS.
I’ve always been a massive bookworm but over the past few months I’ve found myself reaching for physical books less and less simply due to health, time and all the hours wasted I’ve spent mindlessly scrolling through Twitter (a habit I want to change). Luckily I received a few over Christmas or picked up in the sales/local charity shops so my main goal for 2020 is to finish those. There are six in total so in theory it should be easy. 

CONTINUE WORK ON MY PHYSICAL HEALTH.
This one’s a bit tricky as there’s no quick or easy fix. There’s also still no definitive cause or singular event my consultants can pinpoint as to what caused all this. It’s just a case of continuing to try different combinations of medicines to see what works the best with what. I’m just hoping that now we’re approaching being two years in to the physical symptoms (although in hindsight I’ve had symptoms here and there all my life) that there’s some sort of way to get and keep everything under control more effectively than it currently is.

WORK ON MY MENTAL HEALTH.
Something just as important as physical health is mental health and in all honesty, it’s really taken a sledgehammer of a battering with all that's gone on. Some days are good but there's others which sadly have been getting more and more frequent that I haven’t been able to do much besides cry, curl into a ball under five blankets and stare blankly into space whilst my thoughts spiral out of control. I want to try and not let everything get to me as much, which believe me is hard but I’m willing to give it my best shot this year.

GET TICKETS FOR THE MCR REUNION/TOUR.
Just putting it out positively into the world as I know trying to get tickets will be utter carnage. But I can positively dream and at least hope the universe gives me this one thing. Hoping that if I mention it enough it’ll happen so sorry if you've been listening to my endless prattling on since Halloween. 

BE MORE SUSTAINABLE & SHOP LESS.
Going completely in the opposite direction of what I’ve just said, I want 2020 to be the year I try and shop less, stop buying things I don’t really need and try to live a bit more eco friendly. I went pescitarian early last year both through choice and because my stomach can no longer digest meat or most dairy products. It’s not the biggest step but I like to think of it as a start. I’ve personally found it’s easier for me to eat more plant based leaning diets and there’s so many amazing vegan/veggie products on the market now that you’re really spoilt for choice. I’ve got my eye on the new Stella McCartney veggie chicken box and the Wagamama’s vegan katsu curry (just typing it is making me hungry!) I also have been having the best luck recently in charity shops, vintage emporiums and Depop when it comes to clothes, vinyls and other bits and pieces. I think it's just all about keeping a look out and trying to find it for the best price whilst also giving secondhand items and new home. I might actually put together a post about my best thrift/secondhand/Depop finds if anyones interested.

I’ll leave it there for now as I don't want to weigh myself down with a ridiculously long list for just one month but if you have any goals or plans in mind I’d love to hear about them.
- j
Read more »


Originally posted: 23rd July 2019
Oat milk based caramel Frappuccino, let’s see if it holds (Really hope so because it tastes amazing!) Yesterday was spent having a wonderful reunion with family over from New Zealand and I think it’s made me more determined than ever to get my health in check (as much as possible which to be honest, probably isn’t much in the first place) and try and get out more. Pretty fed up of missing things and experiences; there’s a long long long long list! I don’t know if I’d get over to NZ in a hurry sadly but y’know... baby steps. Maybe one day!
  • Wednesday, September 11, 2019

family catch up, oat milk latte & kerrang!


Originally posted: 23rd July 2019
Oat milk based caramel Frappuccino, let’s see if it holds (Really hope so because it tastes amazing!) Yesterday was spent having a wonderful reunion with family over from New Zealand and I think it’s made me more determined than ever to get my health in check (as much as possible which to be honest, probably isn’t much in the first place) and try and get out more. Pretty fed up of missing things and experiences; there’s a long long long long list! I don’t know if I’d get over to NZ in a hurry sadly but y’know... baby steps. Maybe one day!
Read more »


Originally posted: 17th July 2019
As much as I enjoy summery dresses and the warmer weather I’m ready for it to be Autumn now. Give me crunchy leaves, pumpkin flavoured everything, cute scarfs, actual pumpkins and an excuse to buy this super comfy Primark top in every seasonal colour. Today was spent back at the Chiropractor (now a recurring monthly thing) to release all the frozen/trapped nerves and muscles in my body and to also kick-start my colon back into (slowly) working order. I knew there was a reason Wednesdays have an iffy reputation.
  • Tuesday, September 10, 2019

wishing it was autumn & health update.


Originally posted: 17th July 2019
As much as I enjoy summery dresses and the warmer weather I’m ready for it to be Autumn now. Give me crunchy leaves, pumpkin flavoured everything, cute scarfs, actual pumpkins and an excuse to buy this super comfy Primark top in every seasonal colour. Today was spent back at the Chiropractor (now a recurring monthly thing) to release all the frozen/trapped nerves and muscles in my body and to also kick-start my colon back into (slowly) working order. I knew there was a reason Wednesdays have an iffy reputation.
Read more »


Originally posted: 20th June 2019
Saturday will mark two weeks since I’ve been back at work and I still can’t quite believe I’m actually typing that. Last Saturday was interesting (queue one of the most horrific flare ups I’ve had in a long while) at one point I didn’t think I’d actually even make it in but I did and saw the shift through thank god. We’re now also 99.9% sure that all of these issues are partly hereditary. Looking back on how much my wonderful, lovely Grandma struggled in scarily the exact same way as me has been — in a sense, a form of inspiration. I can’t ever remember her complaining once. Unlike me who’ll complain until the cows come home. She just always seemed to get on with it as best she could and soldier on. I think that’s a good way to approach the bad days. Be more like a Grandma. Try your best, do what you can and always stop for tea and biscuits. 
  • Saturday, September 07, 2019

health update.


Originally posted: 20th June 2019
Saturday will mark two weeks since I’ve been back at work and I still can’t quite believe I’m actually typing that. Last Saturday was interesting (queue one of the most horrific flare ups I’ve had in a long while) at one point I didn’t think I’d actually even make it in but I did and saw the shift through thank god. We’re now also 99.9% sure that all of these issues are partly hereditary. Looking back on how much my wonderful, lovely Grandma struggled in scarily the exact same way as me has been — in a sense, a form of inspiration. I can’t ever remember her complaining once. Unlike me who’ll complain until the cows come home. She just always seemed to get on with it as best she could and soldier on. I think that’s a good way to approach the bad days. Be more like a Grandma. Try your best, do what you can and always stop for tea and biscuits. 
Read more »
Welcome to the infamous “I hate trying to be pink and girly” Instagram (and now blog) post/spark of realization. You’ve been warned...
Originally posted: 24th May 2019
Been a bit quiet on here recently as I feel like I’ve been stuck in a rut Instagram-wise. To be completely honest with you all I’m sick to death of trying to keep up with everyone else out there, the pressure to need a ‘theme’ and everything else that usually comes with blogging. I’ve never really been big into the whole ‘pink and girly everywhere’ thing – not to say that people who are are wrong, they make it look so lovely for them. It’s just not really for me personally. Give me a band t-shirt or ratty old converse and jeans any day. I think I’m just passed trying to fit in with what (at least I believe to be) are expected criteria for most bloggers currently. I don’t think I’ll ever truly be a ‘typical’ blogger. I came into this years ago not knowing anything about beauty and skincare (two of the big things I tried to kid myself about knowing) and I still know nothing! I want to try and shift my focus back to things I do truly love. Music, TV & Netflix, books, bits and pieces that have caught my interest and updating about general life and health. I want to go back to what originally inspired me, and still does; seeing my cousin years ago working at her Uni paper and then NME & within the music industry reviewing bands and music and thinking how freaking cool that was! That that was even a career option! Of course I do love a good face mask and lipstick as much as the next person but I don’t think I can solely build a proper and worthwhile blog around just that. I still do like those things also, I just don’t want that to be my only thing. Does that make sense? I hope so. So yeah, if you’ve read this then thank you and hopefully you’ll stick around! Also finally I’m heading back to work soon as the medication I’m now on is mostly keeping things stable and I can’t wait! Shall keep you all updated as always.
  • Friday, September 06, 2019

more authentically me.
Welcome to the infamous “I hate trying to be pink and girly” Instagram (and now blog) post/spark of realization. You’ve been warned...
Originally posted: 24th May 2019
Been a bit quiet on here recently as I feel like I’ve been stuck in a rut Instagram-wise. To be completely honest with you all I’m sick to death of trying to keep up with everyone else out there, the pressure to need a ‘theme’ and everything else that usually comes with blogging. I’ve never really been big into the whole ‘pink and girly everywhere’ thing – not to say that people who are are wrong, they make it look so lovely for them. It’s just not really for me personally. Give me a band t-shirt or ratty old converse and jeans any day. I think I’m just passed trying to fit in with what (at least I believe to be) are expected criteria for most bloggers currently. I don’t think I’ll ever truly be a ‘typical’ blogger. I came into this years ago not knowing anything about beauty and skincare (two of the big things I tried to kid myself about knowing) and I still know nothing! I want to try and shift my focus back to things I do truly love. Music, TV & Netflix, books, bits and pieces that have caught my interest and updating about general life and health. I want to go back to what originally inspired me, and still does; seeing my cousin years ago working at her Uni paper and then NME & within the music industry reviewing bands and music and thinking how freaking cool that was! That that was even a career option! Of course I do love a good face mask and lipstick as much as the next person but I don’t think I can solely build a proper and worthwhile blog around just that. I still do like those things also, I just don’t want that to be my only thing. Does that make sense? I hope so. So yeah, if you’ve read this then thank you and hopefully you’ll stick around! Also finally I’m heading back to work soon as the medication I’m now on is mostly keeping things stable and I can’t wait! Shall keep you all updated as always.
Read more »

Just to say, I’ve also posted this on my Instagram so sorry if you’re seeing this twice but I wanted some more positivity on my blog so thought why not upload it here too.

Happy Monday, who else has got the Monday ‘ugh’ feeling? Well, it’s official. I’ve been sick a whole year. Yay! Excuse me while I pause to roll my eyes. I won’t lie. It’s been pretty shit (literally - ew sorry) and there have been more bad days than good, but you know what? I’ve made it through and in a way, I’m pretty proud. I was beyond happy to wave goodbye to the shit-show that was 2018 and now the longest bloody month in the world is almost over I can start properly looking forward to 2019 and what’s in store. With that in mind, I wanted to quickly share with you all what I’m looking forward to this year. 

  • February - I swear to God this months gone on forever and I’ll be glad to see the back of it.
  • Birthday- I turn 27 a month today and tbh that scares me a bit. Feels like I only turned 20 last week! Fun fact, Mum and I share a birthday, so that always makes it extra special. Plus it saves on buying two cakes.
  • Blogging - I really want to continue upping my blogging game this year. It took a nosedive in 2018 especially as I just couldn’t get in the mindset with everything else going on. However, I’ve set myself a few goals: to hit 500 on my insta, improve my photography & post a minimum of 3 times a month on my blog. Baby steps that I hope will make a difference. 
  • Work - As I said a few posts back, I had to leave my lovely job & friends in October because of my stomach and I miss it dearly. Honestly being stuck at home is boring AF! Really hoping I’ll be able to get back this year (& have an officially confirmed diagnosis would be nice too).
  • Family & friends - there’s been a few new additions amongst our family & friends last year & I’ve yet to meet any of them. Keeping my fingers crossed that at some point I’ll finally get to meet them all rather than stalk my poor cousin & his girlfriend whenever they upload baby photos. 
  • Be healthier - I decided to make the switch to going pescatarian a month back. I can’t eat much of what I used to anymore & tbh it’s so much kinder on the animals. I’d love to say I’m doing more but as green veg make me sick, a full-on veggie/vegan diet is sadly out the window for now. 
  • Monday, January 28, 2019

looking forwards in 2019.

Just to say, I’ve also posted this on my Instagram so sorry if you’re seeing this twice but I wanted some more positivity on my blog so thought why not upload it here too.

Happy Monday, who else has got the Monday ‘ugh’ feeling? Well, it’s official. I’ve been sick a whole year. Yay! Excuse me while I pause to roll my eyes. I won’t lie. It’s been pretty shit (literally - ew sorry) and there have been more bad days than good, but you know what? I’ve made it through and in a way, I’m pretty proud. I was beyond happy to wave goodbye to the shit-show that was 2018 and now the longest bloody month in the world is almost over I can start properly looking forward to 2019 and what’s in store. With that in mind, I wanted to quickly share with you all what I’m looking forward to this year. 

  • February - I swear to God this months gone on forever and I’ll be glad to see the back of it.
  • Birthday- I turn 27 a month today and tbh that scares me a bit. Feels like I only turned 20 last week! Fun fact, Mum and I share a birthday, so that always makes it extra special. Plus it saves on buying two cakes.
  • Blogging - I really want to continue upping my blogging game this year. It took a nosedive in 2018 especially as I just couldn’t get in the mindset with everything else going on. However, I’ve set myself a few goals: to hit 500 on my insta, improve my photography & post a minimum of 3 times a month on my blog. Baby steps that I hope will make a difference. 
  • Work - As I said a few posts back, I had to leave my lovely job & friends in October because of my stomach and I miss it dearly. Honestly being stuck at home is boring AF! Really hoping I’ll be able to get back this year (& have an officially confirmed diagnosis would be nice too).
  • Family & friends - there’s been a few new additions amongst our family & friends last year & I’ve yet to meet any of them. Keeping my fingers crossed that at some point I’ll finally get to meet them all rather than stalk my poor cousin & his girlfriend whenever they upload baby photos. 
  • Be healthier - I decided to make the switch to going pescatarian a month back. I can’t eat much of what I used to anymore & tbh it’s so much kinder on the animals. I’d love to say I’m doing more but as green veg make me sick, a full-on veggie/vegan diet is sadly out the window for now. 
Read more »


How many of us have worried about the number of Instagram followers we have at least one point in our lives? I know I have. You see the numbers slowly trickle up (or in some cases skyrocket, thanks bots) only to have them plummet again a few days later. Suddenly that sense of achievement on a well-photographed flat-lay or outfit vanishes and you begin to wonder what exactly you’re doing wrong.

Everyone knows by now that the big bad of Instagram these days is the algorithm. It’s confusing as hell to understand, changes constantly and seems completely biased towards a select few. No matter what you try there never seems to be a way to ‘beat’ it, no matter how many handy and nifty guides you scroll through. Despite first creating my ‘gram way back in 2012 (I’m ancient I know) I’m still very much a novice and the numbers game that it’s become makes my head hurt even thinking about it. Between the debate of whether I should have a theme or not or quantity or quality (trick question, it’s always quality) it’s really easy to get caught up in everything.

I’ve been hovering around the 390 mark for a good chunk of time now and I’m never quite able to hit the 400 mark. It’s like I said. I post, I gain followers then lose them before I can screenshot the total to prove that I’ve achieved something. It was exhausting, to be honest, and it was a game I really didn’t want to start playing as it was falling into the pain in the ass that is ‘follow/unfollow’ and no ones got time for that. I was scrolling through Twitter when this tweet from Ell over at BossGirlBloggers @BGbloggers grabbed my attention.


Something suddenly clicked in my mind and I found myself thinking - one, she’s completely right; and two, why the hell haven’t I done this before? Honestly, I’ve never given my follower count a second thought, the ones that have stuck around. I just assumed they were there because they liked what I had to say; not to mention with my measly little follower list, I would be the last account for major spam and bots. Yeah, I was wrong. Following Ell’s advice, I looked through my followers and I’ve already had my eyes opened. Having removed more bots and spam than I believed was possible (I’ve still got a way to go) it’s really made me realise that while I was worried about numbers, I really wasn’t engaging with the people who do care what I have to say and who followed for the right reasons. After all, isn’t that why we started our blogs/instas? To connect with people and to get our voices out there? I know I’d much rather have 10 people following me who truly care about my content than 1000 who I could never interact and communicate with. Ell’s tweet is right. Spam is useless as a clear handbag (sorry it’s true, what’s the point?) Engagement is how we grow and create new friendships within the blogging community and I don’t know about anyone else but to me, I wouldn’t change the friends I’ve made via blogging for all the followers in the world.

So let’s try and ditch the need to have hundreds of followers and focus on upping our engagements instead; allowing it to be a true reflection of all our hard work and dedication. I know I will be and fingers crossed I’ll be reaching more people with good intentions soon enough.

Thanks for reading, Jade x

instagram: followers vs engagement?


How many of us have worried about the number of Instagram followers we have at least one point in our lives? I know I have. You see the numbers slowly trickle up (or in some cases skyrocket, thanks bots) only to have them plummet again a few days later. Suddenly that sense of achievement on a well-photographed flat-lay or outfit vanishes and you begin to wonder what exactly you’re doing wrong.

Everyone knows by now that the big bad of Instagram these days is the algorithm. It’s confusing as hell to understand, changes constantly and seems completely biased towards a select few. No matter what you try there never seems to be a way to ‘beat’ it, no matter how many handy and nifty guides you scroll through. Despite first creating my ‘gram way back in 2012 (I’m ancient I know) I’m still very much a novice and the numbers game that it’s become makes my head hurt even thinking about it. Between the debate of whether I should have a theme or not or quantity or quality (trick question, it’s always quality) it’s really easy to get caught up in everything.

I’ve been hovering around the 390 mark for a good chunk of time now and I’m never quite able to hit the 400 mark. It’s like I said. I post, I gain followers then lose them before I can screenshot the total to prove that I’ve achieved something. It was exhausting, to be honest, and it was a game I really didn’t want to start playing as it was falling into the pain in the ass that is ‘follow/unfollow’ and no ones got time for that. I was scrolling through Twitter when this tweet from Ell over at BossGirlBloggers @BGbloggers grabbed my attention.


Something suddenly clicked in my mind and I found myself thinking - one, she’s completely right; and two, why the hell haven’t I done this before? Honestly, I’ve never given my follower count a second thought, the ones that have stuck around. I just assumed they were there because they liked what I had to say; not to mention with my measly little follower list, I would be the last account for major spam and bots. Yeah, I was wrong. Following Ell’s advice, I looked through my followers and I’ve already had my eyes opened. Having removed more bots and spam than I believed was possible (I’ve still got a way to go) it’s really made me realise that while I was worried about numbers, I really wasn’t engaging with the people who do care what I have to say and who followed for the right reasons. After all, isn’t that why we started our blogs/instas? To connect with people and to get our voices out there? I know I’d much rather have 10 people following me who truly care about my content than 1000 who I could never interact and communicate with. Ell’s tweet is right. Spam is useless as a clear handbag (sorry it’s true, what’s the point?) Engagement is how we grow and create new friendships within the blogging community and I don’t know about anyone else but to me, I wouldn’t change the friends I’ve made via blogging for all the followers in the world.

So let’s try and ditch the need to have hundreds of followers and focus on upping our engagements instead; allowing it to be a true reflection of all our hard work and dedication. I know I will be and fingers crossed I’ll be reaching more people with good intentions soon enough.

Thanks for reading, Jade x

Read more »


Happy New Year’s Eve! If someone had asked me this time last year, what I wanted to achieve in 2018 I probably would’ve said a number of things; see a friend get married, travel a bit, see in two years at a job I love, hell, even maybe give dating a go. Why not? I’d be turning twenty-six and life’s my oyster. and all that. Then I got sick. Really sick. I missed the wedding; the chance to travel; numerous plans to see friends; my birthday; I had to leave my lovely job and trying dating was the last thing on my mind. We still don’t know what caused my stomach to completely start failing or why exactly but 2018 was not the year I was hoping it’d be. I’ve had more doctors appointments than hot dinners (because eating really is a struggle these days. Soup is my new go-to and some days I can’t even eat at all. Damn acidic reflux). I’ve been jabbed and poked with so many needles I feel like a pincushion; given far too many tablets for this symptom and that that I’ve lost track and I’ve been told to ‘try yoga’ or that ‘it’s all in your head’ so many times I want to scream, many from a doctor or consultant who doesn’t want to listen. However there’s far more wonderful NHS staff I’ve come across that bad, and this post isn’t to bash them at all.

After no luck with the first consultant, we’ve switched thanks to a recommendation and things are now slowly starting to look up and fall into place. I’m finally being listened to and although they say never google your symptoms, I was so frustrated and curious that I wound up doing just that. Ironically both the second consultant and I reached the same conclusion before I ever voiced my concerns about what I’d found.

He believes it to be Gastroparesis. It’s chronic, incurable but thankfully (hopefully) manageable. Various tests are currently underway, I’ve already had an X-ray, even more bloods and have just undergone the Gastric Emptying Study on Wednesday. My consultant says he’s already “98% positive” it is Gastroparesis (but if it isn’t the tests will continue.) My hope for 2019 is that I finally get a diagnosis and a way to manage it so I can hopefully get back into a normal way of life. I miss work and all the lovely team there, being able to actually plan things in advance and not having other things ruined because my stomach decided to freak out and made me violently ill because I dared to eat something more solid than mash potatoes.

Congrats if you’ve made it this far, I promise I’ll wrap this up now, but I just wanted to stress that if you’re ill at all, or even just unsure about something, it doesn’t have to be health-related; never be afraid to get a second opinion or seek alternative advice. You only get one chance at life or one body, make it count. My New Years resolution is to keep on fighting, what’s yours? Ps. Today’s been a shit day and I couldn’t find any of those fab New Years headbands, so a snap filter while wrapped up with blankets and a hot water bottles gonna have to do. 😂
  • Friday, January 04, 2019

a 2019 resolution.


Happy New Year’s Eve! If someone had asked me this time last year, what I wanted to achieve in 2018 I probably would’ve said a number of things; see a friend get married, travel a bit, see in two years at a job I love, hell, even maybe give dating a go. Why not? I’d be turning twenty-six and life’s my oyster. and all that. Then I got sick. Really sick. I missed the wedding; the chance to travel; numerous plans to see friends; my birthday; I had to leave my lovely job and trying dating was the last thing on my mind. We still don’t know what caused my stomach to completely start failing or why exactly but 2018 was not the year I was hoping it’d be. I’ve had more doctors appointments than hot dinners (because eating really is a struggle these days. Soup is my new go-to and some days I can’t even eat at all. Damn acidic reflux). I’ve been jabbed and poked with so many needles I feel like a pincushion; given far too many tablets for this symptom and that that I’ve lost track and I’ve been told to ‘try yoga’ or that ‘it’s all in your head’ so many times I want to scream, many from a doctor or consultant who doesn’t want to listen. However there’s far more wonderful NHS staff I’ve come across that bad, and this post isn’t to bash them at all.

After no luck with the first consultant, we’ve switched thanks to a recommendation and things are now slowly starting to look up and fall into place. I’m finally being listened to and although they say never google your symptoms, I was so frustrated and curious that I wound up doing just that. Ironically both the second consultant and I reached the same conclusion before I ever voiced my concerns about what I’d found.

He believes it to be Gastroparesis. It’s chronic, incurable but thankfully (hopefully) manageable. Various tests are currently underway, I’ve already had an X-ray, even more bloods and have just undergone the Gastric Emptying Study on Wednesday. My consultant says he’s already “98% positive” it is Gastroparesis (but if it isn’t the tests will continue.) My hope for 2019 is that I finally get a diagnosis and a way to manage it so I can hopefully get back into a normal way of life. I miss work and all the lovely team there, being able to actually plan things in advance and not having other things ruined because my stomach decided to freak out and made me violently ill because I dared to eat something more solid than mash potatoes.

Congrats if you’ve made it this far, I promise I’ll wrap this up now, but I just wanted to stress that if you’re ill at all, or even just unsure about something, it doesn’t have to be health-related; never be afraid to get a second opinion or seek alternative advice. You only get one chance at life or one body, make it count. My New Years resolution is to keep on fighting, what’s yours? Ps. Today’s been a shit day and I couldn’t find any of those fab New Years headbands, so a snap filter while wrapped up with blankets and a hot water bottles gonna have to do. 😂
Read more »

Can you believe September is already here? I swear it was only June last week, the times just flown by. Mum and I have had a pretty calm day, considering it’s all back to work and everything tomorrow. It’s certainly helped the weathers been onside for once, I couldn’t stand that intense heatwave any longer and it’s not too cold to have to bundle up in ten layers of jumpers just yet. A happy medium I think it’s called.



Being the complete blogging fraud that I am, I still haven’t taken the leap and invested in a decent tripod or a self-timer to take outfit photos, so as usual I persuaded Mum to take a few shots for me whilst we both wrestled with the dog who wanted to sniff every single plant known to man. A jazzy outfit post this didn't turn out to be! Surprisingly, Jasper actually sat for a whole twenty seconds for me to get a photo with him. I know, I’m in shock! However, being the amateurs that we both are, we somehow ended up with a bag for life creeping in on a few of the pictures. Gotta love that glamorous blogger’s life and represent last week’s Iceland food shop. Multitasking goals.


 Although I’m still getting used to blogging again, I’m glad I decided to come back. I actually had forgotten how much I’d missed it once the writer’s block starts to crumble. In fact (not wanting to jinx this) I’ve got a long list of ideas for upcoming posts I can’t wait to start working on.

Thanks for reading, Jade x
  • Sunday, September 02, 2018

the dog hijacked my outfit post.

Can you believe September is already here? I swear it was only June last week, the times just flown by. Mum and I have had a pretty calm day, considering it’s all back to work and everything tomorrow. It’s certainly helped the weathers been onside for once, I couldn’t stand that intense heatwave any longer and it’s not too cold to have to bundle up in ten layers of jumpers just yet. A happy medium I think it’s called.



Being the complete blogging fraud that I am, I still haven’t taken the leap and invested in a decent tripod or a self-timer to take outfit photos, so as usual I persuaded Mum to take a few shots for me whilst we both wrestled with the dog who wanted to sniff every single plant known to man. A jazzy outfit post this didn't turn out to be! Surprisingly, Jasper actually sat for a whole twenty seconds for me to get a photo with him. I know, I’m in shock! However, being the amateurs that we both are, we somehow ended up with a bag for life creeping in on a few of the pictures. Gotta love that glamorous blogger’s life and represent last week’s Iceland food shop. Multitasking goals.


 Although I’m still getting used to blogging again, I’m glad I decided to come back. I actually had forgotten how much I’d missed it once the writer’s block starts to crumble. In fact (not wanting to jinx this) I’ve got a long list of ideas for upcoming posts I can’t wait to start working on.

Thanks for reading, Jade x
Read more »

I always struggle on how to start off posts, so here it goes. Hi, remember me? I’m Jade; I’m twenty-six and I’m probably the world’s shittest blogger. Maybe that’s too harsh, but it doesn’t change the fact it’s been almost an entire year since my last post. My excuse? The truth? I kinda fell out of love with blogging.



The best place to try and start to explain myself is to say that I think I reached a point where I simply just didn’t feel true to myself anymore. Perhaps it’s just me but I think I fell into a rut of just doing posts that I felt were ‘expected’ from bloggers. Looking back with hindsight I did jump on a bandwagon when I was lacking creativity. If in doubt I’d do another haul maybe. However, that’s not to say following a trend or post idea you like is a terrible thing. You do you. For me though, I developed a pretty shitty way of thinking that because I couldn’t get past the longest writer’s block known to (wo)mankind, no one would be interested in either 1. My original content (when it decided to actually flourish, not that there was much of it.) 2. That if I then didn’t keep up with the blogging Joneses, I’d somehow become some kind of blogging outcast and would lose all my hard work. Told you my brain works in mysteriously weird ways.

why i left blogging & the return.

I always struggle on how to start off posts, so here it goes. Hi, remember me? I’m Jade; I’m twenty-six and I’m probably the world’s shittest blogger. Maybe that’s too harsh, but it doesn’t change the fact it’s been almost an entire year since my last post. My excuse? The truth? I kinda fell out of love with blogging.



The best place to try and start to explain myself is to say that I think I reached a point where I simply just didn’t feel true to myself anymore. Perhaps it’s just me but I think I fell into a rut of just doing posts that I felt were ‘expected’ from bloggers. Looking back with hindsight I did jump on a bandwagon when I was lacking creativity. If in doubt I’d do another haul maybe. However, that’s not to say following a trend or post idea you like is a terrible thing. You do you. For me though, I developed a pretty shitty way of thinking that because I couldn’t get past the longest writer’s block known to (wo)mankind, no one would be interested in either 1. My original content (when it decided to actually flourish, not that there was much of it.) 2. That if I then didn’t keep up with the blogging Joneses, I’d somehow become some kind of blogging outcast and would lose all my hard work. Told you my brain works in mysteriously weird ways.

Read more »

For the past month or so I think I may have lost my blogging mojo. You all know the drill by now I'm sure. Work, social life, the usual. For me, there just never seems to be enough hours in the day and I envy those lucky ones who can magically do it all.

For me, although I still love my little corner of the internet and treasure its existence, I do feel like sometimes it's all too easy to get lost in various stats and figures. I’m sure you know what I mean when you start to compare yourselves to others and the little gnome of self-doubt starts to make itself at home in your mind. It's time to stop letting blogging become a numbers contest and to get the love back into it more. After all, isn't that how we all started in the first place? For the love of writing? I know mine did. The truly lovely Jen over at Velvetspring summed this up perfectly and you should hop over to her and have a read of her post. She's a gem.

Having taken roughly a month out I've come to the conclusion that I don't want to become pigeon-holed with my content, or restrict myself on what I do and don't write simply because it doesn't fall under the little umbrella of labels I've given myself. Life's too short not to be creating the kind of content that I want to create or to get hung up on the idea of having to do another post that my heart and soul isn't completely in.

With that in mind, I do have a few little ideas in mind that you'll hopefully see coming up in September. Book hauls, autumnal bits and bobs, health, anything and everything that sparks my interest. However, I'm sure you all know by now exactly what I'm like by now. So, shall we aim for more around September-October to be on the safe side?

I'm aiming to get a few posts typed up and posted from next week onwards (yay for a week off work after a long summer period) so hopefully, I'll report back to you all then with a book haul that I've been planning to cobble together since July! Better late than never I guess.


Thanks for reading, love Jade x

getting back on track.

For the past month or so I think I may have lost my blogging mojo. You all know the drill by now I'm sure. Work, social life, the usual. For me, there just never seems to be enough hours in the day and I envy those lucky ones who can magically do it all.

For me, although I still love my little corner of the internet and treasure its existence, I do feel like sometimes it's all too easy to get lost in various stats and figures. I’m sure you know what I mean when you start to compare yourselves to others and the little gnome of self-doubt starts to make itself at home in your mind. It's time to stop letting blogging become a numbers contest and to get the love back into it more. After all, isn't that how we all started in the first place? For the love of writing? I know mine did. The truly lovely Jen over at Velvetspring summed this up perfectly and you should hop over to her and have a read of her post. She's a gem.

Having taken roughly a month out I've come to the conclusion that I don't want to become pigeon-holed with my content, or restrict myself on what I do and don't write simply because it doesn't fall under the little umbrella of labels I've given myself. Life's too short not to be creating the kind of content that I want to create or to get hung up on the idea of having to do another post that my heart and soul isn't completely in.

With that in mind, I do have a few little ideas in mind that you'll hopefully see coming up in September. Book hauls, autumnal bits and bobs, health, anything and everything that sparks my interest. However, I'm sure you all know by now exactly what I'm like by now. So, shall we aim for more around September-October to be on the safe side?

I'm aiming to get a few posts typed up and posted from next week onwards (yay for a week off work after a long summer period) so hopefully, I'll report back to you all then with a book haul that I've been planning to cobble together since July! Better late than never I guess.


Thanks for reading, love Jade x
Read more »

I was recently tagged by the lovely Louise of lousiebodlex to take part in the 'This Time Next Year' tag. If you haven't had a read and a scroll through her blog then you're seriously missing out!
The idea behind it is to set yourself a list of goals for the year, explain how you're going to achieve them and then in a years’ time, reflect upon this post and follow it up with what you've managed to achieve and succeed in.

Post more frequently.

This is something I always struggle with. I constantly seem to be finding myself falling into these states of complete writer’s block where I know exactly what I want the post to be about, but as soon as I try and get the words out, nothing happens. This one I guess is more down to continue to motivate myself. I've set a goal for at least two posts a month and a very bare minimum, but in truth, I'd like it to be at least four if not more.

Increase social media following

By the end of the year, my wish is to hit another milestone for myself and my little blog. I'd love nothing more than to finally hit 500 Bloglovin' followers; and just to up the goalpost a bit more, perhaps on Instagram too? Is that too much wishful thinking? That'd be a lovely way to ring in 2018.

Save more money.

I'll hold my hands up and admit that I have a bit of a shopping problem. One that usually means that I end up spending money as fast as I get it. Maybe you can chalk it up to the fear of missing out on something. I'm not sure. I just think I've reached a point now when I'd rather know that I had a sensible amount of savings in the bank rather than another pair of jeans or a lipstick that I really don't need - nor have room for, (I really did need the FleurDeForce one though!) Probably the best way of doing this is throwing away my bank card, but in reality that's not going to help on a day to day basis. What I need to do most of all is squirrel money away in a savings account and learn to control my spending impulses.


Get a handle on my anxiety.

I'm a naturally anxious person and worry far too much. To the point that I find that there are days that I just don't even know what it is I'm so worried about. It's definitely safe to say I'm a 'glass half empty' type of girl. I'd love to be able to get out more and achieve new things. I really enjoyed the Bournemouth Bloggers meet up at the beginning of the month (which you can read about here.) the best way to achieve this is to keep approaching it with baby steps. Even if that's just one at a time and count even the smallest of things as another victory. Onward and upward.

Watch all of the Star Wars films.

Bit of a random one but time for a confession. I've never actually watched any of the Star Wars franchise. Only a few snippets here and there of The Phantom Menace when I was little. I'm always hearing about how good it is and at 25, I probably should have at least seen some of them.


Thanks for reading, Jade x

this time next year.

I was recently tagged by the lovely Louise of lousiebodlex to take part in the 'This Time Next Year' tag. If you haven't had a read and a scroll through her blog then you're seriously missing out!
The idea behind it is to set yourself a list of goals for the year, explain how you're going to achieve them and then in a years’ time, reflect upon this post and follow it up with what you've managed to achieve and succeed in.

Post more frequently.

This is something I always struggle with. I constantly seem to be finding myself falling into these states of complete writer’s block where I know exactly what I want the post to be about, but as soon as I try and get the words out, nothing happens. This one I guess is more down to continue to motivate myself. I've set a goal for at least two posts a month and a very bare minimum, but in truth, I'd like it to be at least four if not more.

Increase social media following

By the end of the year, my wish is to hit another milestone for myself and my little blog. I'd love nothing more than to finally hit 500 Bloglovin' followers; and just to up the goalpost a bit more, perhaps on Instagram too? Is that too much wishful thinking? That'd be a lovely way to ring in 2018.

Save more money.

I'll hold my hands up and admit that I have a bit of a shopping problem. One that usually means that I end up spending money as fast as I get it. Maybe you can chalk it up to the fear of missing out on something. I'm not sure. I just think I've reached a point now when I'd rather know that I had a sensible amount of savings in the bank rather than another pair of jeans or a lipstick that I really don't need - nor have room for, (I really did need the FleurDeForce one though!) Probably the best way of doing this is throwing away my bank card, but in reality that's not going to help on a day to day basis. What I need to do most of all is squirrel money away in a savings account and learn to control my spending impulses.


Get a handle on my anxiety.

I'm a naturally anxious person and worry far too much. To the point that I find that there are days that I just don't even know what it is I'm so worried about. It's definitely safe to say I'm a 'glass half empty' type of girl. I'd love to be able to get out more and achieve new things. I really enjoyed the Bournemouth Bloggers meet up at the beginning of the month (which you can read about here.) the best way to achieve this is to keep approaching it with baby steps. Even if that's just one at a time and count even the smallest of things as another victory. Onward and upward.

Watch all of the Star Wars films.

Bit of a random one but time for a confession. I've never actually watched any of the Star Wars franchise. Only a few snippets here and there of The Phantom Menace when I was little. I'm always hearing about how good it is and at 25, I probably should have at least seen some of them.


Thanks for reading, Jade x
Read more »

I never intended for this to become an ongoing series but as things usually go, I kinda fell into it by accident. Now that March is finally here, I'm really hoping that we've seen the end of all the miserable rain and all round crappy weather. I just want some sunshine in my life. Anyway, on with the post.

1. Continue to keep blogging. I'm hoping to aim between 4-6 posts a month.
2. Save money. Now I'm back in a job (which I love) I'm hoping to start saving a bit more. Although March is the month all the Wizarding World things come out so this may just be a loosing battle.
3. Clear out my wardrobe. I say it every month and I still haven't got round to actually doing it. Just need to stop putting it off and tackle the problem head on.
4. Experiment with new recipes for juices and smoothies from the Deliciously Ella smoothie and juices book.
5. Cut out dairy. Lactose intolerance isn't fun and always leaves my lips swollen. Time to hunt for some equally yummy dairy alternatives.
6.  Look into getting my own domain name for the blog.
7. Attempt to get up-to-date on The Walking Dead. Almost at the end of season five!
8. Stick to my skincare routine. I can see that it's starting to pay off so now all I've got to do is remember to keep it going.
9. Pick up Ed Sheeran's new album on vinyl.

Thanks for reading, love Jade x

march goals.

I never intended for this to become an ongoing series but as things usually go, I kinda fell into it by accident. Now that March is finally here, I'm really hoping that we've seen the end of all the miserable rain and all round crappy weather. I just want some sunshine in my life. Anyway, on with the post.

1. Continue to keep blogging. I'm hoping to aim between 4-6 posts a month.
2. Save money. Now I'm back in a job (which I love) I'm hoping to start saving a bit more. Although March is the month all the Wizarding World things come out so this may just be a loosing battle.
3. Clear out my wardrobe. I say it every month and I still haven't got round to actually doing it. Just need to stop putting it off and tackle the problem head on.
4. Experiment with new recipes for juices and smoothies from the Deliciously Ella smoothie and juices book.
5. Cut out dairy. Lactose intolerance isn't fun and always leaves my lips swollen. Time to hunt for some equally yummy dairy alternatives.
6.  Look into getting my own domain name for the blog.
7. Attempt to get up-to-date on The Walking Dead. Almost at the end of season five!
8. Stick to my skincare routine. I can see that it's starting to pay off so now all I've got to do is remember to keep it going.
9. Pick up Ed Sheeran's new album on vinyl.

Thanks for reading, love Jade x
Read more »

As anyone who knows me knows, I'm a massive Harry Potter nerd. I've loved the books since I was seven and have spent most of my life growing up alongside Harry, Ron and Hermione. The short story behind this is I went to see the theater show; Harry Potter and the Cursed Child with my brother in December, and naturally I went a little bit crazy in the gift shop #sorrynotsorry. 

Keeping in line with J.K. Rowling's request to #keepthesecrets I won't be spoiling anything in this post, which kind of makes it tricky to talk in depth about each item or show certain photographs of the programs, but I'll give it my best shot.

The one thing I will stress is to not be put off by just reading the script book alone. I was on the fence after reading it initially and felt a bit let down. However, this really is just a whole other experience that if you can see it, then jump at it and grab those tickets. Every little detail from the sets, lighting, audio, choreography and of course the acting is (excuse the pun) utterly magical. I have no shame in admitting I legitimately sobbed like a baby from the second the lights went down, all the way through parts 1 and 2 and then all the way back to the hotel after. Much to my poor brother's horror as apparently "I was being really uncool." 

So without me rabbiting on any longer, here's what my brother decided enough was enough I brought and a few pictures from the trip.




Thanks for reading,
love Jade x

haul: harry potter & the cursed child.

As anyone who knows me knows, I'm a massive Harry Potter nerd. I've loved the books since I was seven and have spent most of my life growing up alongside Harry, Ron and Hermione. The short story behind this is I went to see the theater show; Harry Potter and the Cursed Child with my brother in December, and naturally I went a little bit crazy in the gift shop #sorrynotsorry. 

Keeping in line with J.K. Rowling's request to #keepthesecrets I won't be spoiling anything in this post, which kind of makes it tricky to talk in depth about each item or show certain photographs of the programs, but I'll give it my best shot.

The one thing I will stress is to not be put off by just reading the script book alone. I was on the fence after reading it initially and felt a bit let down. However, this really is just a whole other experience that if you can see it, then jump at it and grab those tickets. Every little detail from the sets, lighting, audio, choreography and of course the acting is (excuse the pun) utterly magical. I have no shame in admitting I legitimately sobbed like a baby from the second the lights went down, all the way through parts 1 and 2 and then all the way back to the hotel after. Much to my poor brother's horror as apparently "I was being really uncool." 

So without me rabbiting on any longer, here's what my brother decided enough was enough I brought and a few pictures from the trip.




Thanks for reading,
love Jade x
Read more »

Is it just me, or has January just whizzed passed? I swear it was only last week that we were all celebrating Christmas and New Year. I was at a bit of a loss as to what my first (and slightly late) post of the month should be so I thought "Why not my monthly goals" and decided to go with that. So without any more rambling, here's what I'd like to achieve this February.

1. Spring clean my room and wardrobe, selling or giving away anything that I no longer wear or need. I'm looking at you old DVDs and band t-shirts.

2. Organise my bookcase. It's got to the point that I can't find anything as there are books stacked behind other books and the Harry Potter collection is just taking over one golden snitch or Funko pop at a time.

3. Declutter old makeup and deep cleanse all my brushes. Can you sense the theme that's happening here?

4. Attempt to get back into sewing. I studied Textiles in school and I've been wanting to try and make my own hair scrunchies and little toy animals. Namely a hedgehog pillow.

5. Venture outside and enjoy the sunshine more, especially now that the rain and fog are starting to vanish.

6. Eat more healthily.

7. Buy more vinyl. Everything just seems to sound better on it.

8. Stop watching conspiracy theory videos before going to bed because they keep giving me nightmares.

9. Try and establish a type of blogging routine and get more motivated.

10. Start my new job!

Thank you for reading, let me know what your goals for the month are in the comments below.
Love Jade x
  • Wednesday, February 08, 2017

february goals.

Is it just me, or has January just whizzed passed? I swear it was only last week that we were all celebrating Christmas and New Year. I was at a bit of a loss as to what my first (and slightly late) post of the month should be so I thought "Why not my monthly goals" and decided to go with that. So without any more rambling, here's what I'd like to achieve this February.

1. Spring clean my room and wardrobe, selling or giving away anything that I no longer wear or need. I'm looking at you old DVDs and band t-shirts.

2. Organise my bookcase. It's got to the point that I can't find anything as there are books stacked behind other books and the Harry Potter collection is just taking over one golden snitch or Funko pop at a time.

3. Declutter old makeup and deep cleanse all my brushes. Can you sense the theme that's happening here?

4. Attempt to get back into sewing. I studied Textiles in school and I've been wanting to try and make my own hair scrunchies and little toy animals. Namely a hedgehog pillow.

5. Venture outside and enjoy the sunshine more, especially now that the rain and fog are starting to vanish.

6. Eat more healthily.

7. Buy more vinyl. Everything just seems to sound better on it.

8. Stop watching conspiracy theory videos before going to bed because they keep giving me nightmares.

9. Try and establish a type of blogging routine and get more motivated.

10. Start my new job!

Thank you for reading, let me know what your goals for the month are in the comments below.
Love Jade x
Read more »

I'm roughly a week back into blogging and in truth, it feels so good to be back. I didn't know how much I'd actually missed it until I returned. If only I wasn't such a procrastinator. I was umming and ahing over what type of post to do today and to be honest, I didn't come to much of a decision. The weathers too cloudy and dismal to attempt blog photos and I'm far too cosy to venture outside, so that ruled out a cute outfit of the day or a good old flat lay.

This week hasn't been too eventful. Mostly I've been pottering around at home planning future blog posts and doing some research into finding a good and afford soft box light. I've realised (better late than never) that I really need to step up my photo game if I really want to keep myself motivated at this blogging lark. So far, I've found a few good options, now I just need to actually decide on one. What would you guys recommend? Let me know in the comments below.

Friday 13th saw something drop on Netflix that I've been super excited for since it was announced ages and ages ago. That being the new Unfortunate Events series. I devoured those books when I was growing up and still haven't quite gotten over that Nickelodeon film back in '04 (sorry to anyone who liked it!) I binged the series in under a day and even though I know what's coming (although I'm going to go back and read books 5-13 to refresh my brain) I can't wait for season two. Like I need it now. Right now, please Netflix? 
 
The final thing that's been taking over my week is face masks. Since my lovely stint at Lush I've become a complete face mask junkie. I've got three on the go so far and I'm finding them fantastic for drawing out all the dirt and grime that loves to hide away in my pores. Expect a post on these soon.
For the rest of the day I'm probably going to kick back with a good cuppa of tea and continue my marathon catch up on The Walking Dead. Currently halfway through season 3, completely hooked and now mentally preparing myself for the zombie apocalypse. 

Hope you're all having a good Sunday. Let me know if you've done anything nice in the comments below.

Thanks for reading, love Jade x

cosy sunday.

I'm roughly a week back into blogging and in truth, it feels so good to be back. I didn't know how much I'd actually missed it until I returned. If only I wasn't such a procrastinator. I was umming and ahing over what type of post to do today and to be honest, I didn't come to much of a decision. The weathers too cloudy and dismal to attempt blog photos and I'm far too cosy to venture outside, so that ruled out a cute outfit of the day or a good old flat lay.

This week hasn't been too eventful. Mostly I've been pottering around at home planning future blog posts and doing some research into finding a good and afford soft box light. I've realised (better late than never) that I really need to step up my photo game if I really want to keep myself motivated at this blogging lark. So far, I've found a few good options, now I just need to actually decide on one. What would you guys recommend? Let me know in the comments below.

Friday 13th saw something drop on Netflix that I've been super excited for since it was announced ages and ages ago. That being the new Unfortunate Events series. I devoured those books when I was growing up and still haven't quite gotten over that Nickelodeon film back in '04 (sorry to anyone who liked it!) I binged the series in under a day and even though I know what's coming (although I'm going to go back and read books 5-13 to refresh my brain) I can't wait for season two. Like I need it now. Right now, please Netflix? 
 
The final thing that's been taking over my week is face masks. Since my lovely stint at Lush I've become a complete face mask junkie. I've got three on the go so far and I'm finding them fantastic for drawing out all the dirt and grime that loves to hide away in my pores. Expect a post on these soon.
For the rest of the day I'm probably going to kick back with a good cuppa of tea and continue my marathon catch up on The Walking Dead. Currently halfway through season 3, completely hooked and now mentally preparing myself for the zombie apocalypse. 

Hope you're all having a good Sunday. Let me know if you've done anything nice in the comments below.

Thanks for reading, love Jade x
Read more »

Anxiety seems to be a topic that more and more people are willing to talk about these days. If you take a quick scroll through various news websites and social media, more and more celebrities are opening up about their own struggles. Why, it was only a few weeks ago now that Selena Gomez had to postpone her world tour due to her troubles. Anxiety is much more common than people think, even if you can’t actually see it.

I’ve struggled with anxiety for as long as I can remember. Possibly my whole life. Now, some people might automatically jump in and chime with that old chestnut of “oh but you wanted to act, surely you don’t battle with anxiety!” Sadly, that couldn’t be any further from the truth if you tried. During my time at University, whenever I’d go to get up and on to the stage; or even just in front of people to perform in lessons or to be assessed, my anxiety would flare up big time. It was so bad that on both occasions during my two major shows, I became severely ill that I had no choice but to pull out of both productions. For my third show I actually worked backstage, but that’s a story for another day.
There’s been days, if now weeks where I’ve been trapped; for lack of a better word; inside my room. Not even daring to venture downstairs, and don’t even bother to expect me to answer the phone. I’d rather be locked in a room with all of my greatest fears combined. I simply don’t do phones. It’s basically one big giant ‘no!’

Looking back on all the things I’ve missed: parties; going out to town; fresher’s week; people’s birthdays; generally meeting up for coffee with friends and meeting new people, it does upset me. I know that deep down I’d most likely enjoy all that. But the hold the anxiety has over me is too strong. Even going to get my haircut was a big trauma and that she’s a close family friend for crying out loud. See what I mean?

So, this year, or rather what’s left of it and going into 2017, I’m going to try and attempt to encourage myself to take a few more baby steps out of my comfort zone, gradually building things up a day at a time. Now, with all of that in mind, I’ve hopefully found a few tips and tricks that may make things that little bit easier and I thought that’d I’d share them with you guys.

1.       Remember to take things slow – Rome wasn’t built in a day and it’d be pretty unrealistic to expect to be a whole new person in the space of a month. Things take time, so remembering that is key.

2.       Say yes to more things – Instead of the automatic response of “no thanks” that seems to have become my new catchphrase these days, trying to agree to a few things here and there more often will gradually allow you to then proceed to much more fun and exciting things. Even if it’s just a morning spent grabbing a tea somewhere with a friend. You’ve gotta start somewhere.

3.       Lavender oil – In my little makeup/emergency bag that I keep in my handbag is a little rollerball of thisworks Deep Sleep Stress Less. It works like a dream in stressful situations (of which there’ve been many.) You just roll it onto the pulse points of your wrists like your typical perfume roll on. Then just take a quick, deep sniff whenever you need to. I personally find the lavender and eucalyptus instantly sooths my senses and has the ability to calm me right down.

4.       Read a book – To me, there’s nothing quite as soothing as getting lost in a good book. Which is why I always keep an old and well-loved copy of Quidditch Through The Ages in my bag (Yes, I’m a not-so-secret Harry Potter fan. No surprises there really.) Even though it’s ever so tiny, there’s still something about reading up on all the ways to commit a foul* in a magical spot; even if it’s just for a few minutes during a dreaded bus ride into work.
*There’s 700 ways, just for anyone wondering.

5.       Listen to a good audiobook – Much like the previous point, audiobooks, like good old fashioned books are a godsend. Whenever I’m feeling anxious or stressed I just pop one on, stick the headphones in and try and focus on a good story (which is usually being read by the wonderful Stephen Fry.)

6.       Rain Weather App – Maybe it’s me, but does anyone else find the sound of rain and stormy weather incredibly soothing? That and a good cup of tea is always a rather handy way to try and relieve anxiety and built up stress. My favourite app to use for this is Infinite Storm, which is free, so that’s an added bonus.

7.       Bath bombs – If you have access to bath bombs whilst you’re feeling anxious, I’d recommend giving this one a go. Not only does it help relax and sooth all your senses and muscles, it also leaves you smelling lush. Wouldn’t suggest dropping one into a random puddle outside and having a sit down in that however. Frowned upon for some reason.

As always, I never really know how to finish blog posts. Sorry if this has turned into a bit of an essay. Apparently my brain thinks it’s now necessary to write 2000-odd words every time I type or pick up a pen. I’d love to hear if you have any good insights with living with anxiety. Let me know in the comments below.


Thanks for reading x

living with anxiety & helpful tips.

Anxiety seems to be a topic that more and more people are willing to talk about these days. If you take a quick scroll through various news websites and social media, more and more celebrities are opening up about their own struggles. Why, it was only a few weeks ago now that Selena Gomez had to postpone her world tour due to her troubles. Anxiety is much more common than people think, even if you can’t actually see it.

I’ve struggled with anxiety for as long as I can remember. Possibly my whole life. Now, some people might automatically jump in and chime with that old chestnut of “oh but you wanted to act, surely you don’t battle with anxiety!” Sadly, that couldn’t be any further from the truth if you tried. During my time at University, whenever I’d go to get up and on to the stage; or even just in front of people to perform in lessons or to be assessed, my anxiety would flare up big time. It was so bad that on both occasions during my two major shows, I became severely ill that I had no choice but to pull out of both productions. For my third show I actually worked backstage, but that’s a story for another day.
There’s been days, if now weeks where I’ve been trapped; for lack of a better word; inside my room. Not even daring to venture downstairs, and don’t even bother to expect me to answer the phone. I’d rather be locked in a room with all of my greatest fears combined. I simply don’t do phones. It’s basically one big giant ‘no!’

Looking back on all the things I’ve missed: parties; going out to town; fresher’s week; people’s birthdays; generally meeting up for coffee with friends and meeting new people, it does upset me. I know that deep down I’d most likely enjoy all that. But the hold the anxiety has over me is too strong. Even going to get my haircut was a big trauma and that she’s a close family friend for crying out loud. See what I mean?

So, this year, or rather what’s left of it and going into 2017, I’m going to try and attempt to encourage myself to take a few more baby steps out of my comfort zone, gradually building things up a day at a time. Now, with all of that in mind, I’ve hopefully found a few tips and tricks that may make things that little bit easier and I thought that’d I’d share them with you guys.

1.       Remember to take things slow – Rome wasn’t built in a day and it’d be pretty unrealistic to expect to be a whole new person in the space of a month. Things take time, so remembering that is key.

2.       Say yes to more things – Instead of the automatic response of “no thanks” that seems to have become my new catchphrase these days, trying to agree to a few things here and there more often will gradually allow you to then proceed to much more fun and exciting things. Even if it’s just a morning spent grabbing a tea somewhere with a friend. You’ve gotta start somewhere.

3.       Lavender oil – In my little makeup/emergency bag that I keep in my handbag is a little rollerball of thisworks Deep Sleep Stress Less. It works like a dream in stressful situations (of which there’ve been many.) You just roll it onto the pulse points of your wrists like your typical perfume roll on. Then just take a quick, deep sniff whenever you need to. I personally find the lavender and eucalyptus instantly sooths my senses and has the ability to calm me right down.

4.       Read a book – To me, there’s nothing quite as soothing as getting lost in a good book. Which is why I always keep an old and well-loved copy of Quidditch Through The Ages in my bag (Yes, I’m a not-so-secret Harry Potter fan. No surprises there really.) Even though it’s ever so tiny, there’s still something about reading up on all the ways to commit a foul* in a magical spot; even if it’s just for a few minutes during a dreaded bus ride into work.
*There’s 700 ways, just for anyone wondering.

5.       Listen to a good audiobook – Much like the previous point, audiobooks, like good old fashioned books are a godsend. Whenever I’m feeling anxious or stressed I just pop one on, stick the headphones in and try and focus on a good story (which is usually being read by the wonderful Stephen Fry.)

6.       Rain Weather App – Maybe it’s me, but does anyone else find the sound of rain and stormy weather incredibly soothing? That and a good cup of tea is always a rather handy way to try and relieve anxiety and built up stress. My favourite app to use for this is Infinite Storm, which is free, so that’s an added bonus.

7.       Bath bombs – If you have access to bath bombs whilst you’re feeling anxious, I’d recommend giving this one a go. Not only does it help relax and sooth all your senses and muscles, it also leaves you smelling lush. Wouldn’t suggest dropping one into a random puddle outside and having a sit down in that however. Frowned upon for some reason.

As always, I never really know how to finish blog posts. Sorry if this has turned into a bit of an essay. Apparently my brain thinks it’s now necessary to write 2000-odd words every time I type or pick up a pen. I’d love to hear if you have any good insights with living with anxiety. Let me know in the comments below.


Thanks for reading x
Read more »

Let's start off with something that's kinda become the norm nowadays. Sorry for the prolonged absence and just being kind of a shoddy blogger on the whole, real life just seemed to run away from me and before I knew what had hit me, it's now September.

Since I last blogged (I still can't believe that I last posted in April!) so much has changed in my life. I guess you could say that some of it was okay and the rest being down right pants. Turns out that everyone's been right all along, 2016 is pretty much becoming a rather crappy year all round. On a more positive note however, I finished my time at Uni, which made me want to peruse a possible career in writing; made some wonderful friends and memories and have also managed to bag myself a job. Not too shabby of an outcome for a rather rotten year if you ask me.

So, bearing all that in mind, I've decided to try and get back into blogging, all be it a bit slowly at first. I'm hoping that once I fall back into the swing of things, the blog posts may start to come more frequently and my brain will become less prone to writers block which has become the utter bane of my life.

This is mainly just a short and sweet little life update for now and I'm keeping all my fingers and toes crossed that this time, I'll be able to keep to my word and reignite my writing spark once more.

Until then, enjoy a picture of my dog that really doesn't relate at all to this actual post.

Jade xo

a fresh start.

Let's start off with something that's kinda become the norm nowadays. Sorry for the prolonged absence and just being kind of a shoddy blogger on the whole, real life just seemed to run away from me and before I knew what had hit me, it's now September.

Since I last blogged (I still can't believe that I last posted in April!) so much has changed in my life. I guess you could say that some of it was okay and the rest being down right pants. Turns out that everyone's been right all along, 2016 is pretty much becoming a rather crappy year all round. On a more positive note however, I finished my time at Uni, which made me want to peruse a possible career in writing; made some wonderful friends and memories and have also managed to bag myself a job. Not too shabby of an outcome for a rather rotten year if you ask me.

So, bearing all that in mind, I've decided to try and get back into blogging, all be it a bit slowly at first. I'm hoping that once I fall back into the swing of things, the blog posts may start to come more frequently and my brain will become less prone to writers block which has become the utter bane of my life.

This is mainly just a short and sweet little life update for now and I'm keeping all my fingers and toes crossed that this time, I'll be able to keep to my word and reignite my writing spark once more.

Until then, enjoy a picture of my dog that really doesn't relate at all to this actual post.

Jade xo
Read more »

Featured Post

vhs finds.

I've always had a love for anything that's a bit retro. Before vinyls were really making a comeback (and before I actually owned...

Popular Posts

My Favourites

Looking for something?

@Instagram
© jxdecharlotte, Made By Underline Designs Back to Top