♥ My Beauty Obsession ♥

My Life - Review of 2011

2012-01-22T01:40:00.003Z

I've been reading back through and noticed I'd done a review of 2009, so thought I'd re-do another review but of 2011.

2011 has been a crazy, happy year filled with so many unbelievable, life changing memories which will live with me forever and ever. I've felt emotions, both good and bad, which I never realised could be felt. 2011 has been by far, one of the best and happiest years of my life. I'm going to learn from 2011 and make sure that from now on, every year follows on to be even better.

January 2011

This is a bit hazy. It's 12 months ago!! I mainly concentrated on working, working and more working. Saving up as much money as possible for Australia. I worked on a horrible Notts County Campaign which was bloody freezing and was sooo happy when it was over!

February 2011

I turned 24! One of my first birthday's in a long time without any tears! I went for a lovely meal at Zizzi's with my closest friends. Nothing else exciting really happened, just lots more work and lots more saving.

March 2011

Had my 2nd op for my endo. Wasn't in as much pain as last time, but still struggled with the anaesthetic. Had to have around a week off work this time. Still working hard, these months are not very exciting!! Neil was diagnosed with cancer :-(

April 2011

My last few weeks at home before I jet off to Australia. Sold my little car! Cried like a baby on my last day at work, but had a lovely meal at Tonic. Also had a fab meal and night out with my friends - again, cried like a baby! Di's dad passed away :-( Arrived in Sydney, Australia.

May 2011

Spent a whole month in Sydney, Australia having an amazing time, meeting so many new people. Spent most of the time in the 'famous four', me, AnnMarie, Iben and Rach. Started seeing a guy who went to Europe for 4 weeks. Working for a big bank in the City.

June 2011

Another amazing month in Sydney. Stopped seeing the guy who went very strange on me. Still excited being in Sydney and still having an amazing time :-)

July 2011

Getting a bit fed up now of being in Sydney and working. Spending too much money and not saving enough! Needed to start looking for some farm work. Also getting bored of working for the Bank as my boss is turning into a big bitch and hates me!!! Life's starting to feel a bit shitty again...

August 2011

Took a few days off work sick and went to Port Macquarie with Iben and Kate. Made a decision I would stick out the work for another week and then quit - it's all getting too much. Quit work and went on a road trip for 14 days with Iben from Sydney to Adelaide. Met up with an old friend in Adelaide and had a lovely time. Me and Iben fort like cat and dog, but tried to get on most of the time! Managed to find a job for my 2nd work visa working in the Northern Territory!!!

September 2011

Embarked on my journey to the Northern Territory. Flew from Adelaide to Alice Springs. Then took a Grey Hound Coach up to Dunmarra where I was met by Flick. This is where another crazy 3 months of adventures started :-)

October 2011

Having a bit of a crazy time at the station. Love every minute of it ;-) Things get pretty wild with the young lads there haha, but I'm young, free and single and just want a good time.

November 2011

The famous VRD night for Melbourne Cup. A night that I will NEVER forget, but one that will never be mentioned, well, it will be mentioned, but not the antics that happened, haha! Had another okay month but starting to get a bit fed up of being at the station and want to move onto my next adventure. It seems as if I get 3 month blues!

December 2011

I said goodbye to everyone at the station :-( Tried so hard to hold back the tears as they Grey Hound Coach drove away with me on it, leaving the station for good. Probably to never return. My new adventure starts here. I'm scared, frightened and unsure of being in the unknown. I have no job to go to and only loose plans up until Christmas. I spend 3 bewildering days in Darwin, a week in Bali, a week in Sydney and a week at Christmas in the Gold Coast with a family I met at the Station. During my time in Sydney, I got offered another job at another station in Queensland. The New Year marks another new adventure :-)

Laperoscopy

2011-03-25T17:36:00.000Z

It's been just over 48 hours since my diagnostic laperoscopy to see whether my endometriosis had come back, It hasn't, but that doesn't explain the pain I've been getting. They think I have IBS, so have given me some tablets to try out.

I'm in quite a lot of pain and my belly button looks disfigured!! Really, yucky, bloody and quite oozy (too much information, sorry!) I need to keep an eye on it to check it doesn't get infected.

Whilst I'm recovering in bed, I'll try schedule some more posts, but tbh, at the moment my mind is blank. I haven't brought any new products really as I'm saving for Oz and don't have anything exciting to tell. Hmm...

Laura xx

The Body Shop Vitamin E Oil

2011-03-15T17:00:00.022Z

With my Body Shop Groupon Vouchers, I picked up one of their Vitamin E Oils as after reading their website, it had really good reviews.

I suffer from normal/dry skin on my face (after my course of roaccutane) and have to moisturise every day and night, otherwise I get horrible dry patches and my skin feels taught.

I've been using this for over 2 weeks now, just in the evening. When I first tried it, I was overwhelmed by the lovely smell. It is just gorgeous; a mix of all the beautiful oils that are in this little glass bottle.

I was very surprised to find that it contained lots of other oils and ingredients alongside the vitamin e oil, although smelling it, I realised it couldn't just be pure vitamin e oil as I have a bottle of this from Holland and Barrett and it does not smell as good as this!

You need to use a few drops to cover your face, so I think the 15ml bottle will last quite a while. When applying the product, it applied really well without much bother or need to really rub it in. I was very impressed that it didn't leave my skin feeling too greasy and it sank into my skin quite quickly without any residue.

What I liked most about this product was how my skin felt in the morning. It was super, super soft and felt very moisturised. I don't get that from my regular moisturiser, even though it's for dry skin.

I tried successfully and unsuccessfully to use the product under my makeup! After spending the day at a spa, I used a tiny amount on my cheeks as my skin felt very dry. I left it around 5 minutes of soak in and my foundation went on with ease and I did not find a greasy residue was left. This morning after a hot shower (too hot!) my face was blotchy and dry. I used too much and have ended up with minimal foundation and blusher on all day today; it just slid off my face, or wiped off throughout the day. So the key is if I'm using it in the morning, to only use a small amount! Will serve me right.

The vitamin e oil can be purchased for £10, which I feel is a decent amount for a very good and lovely smelling product.

Laura x

Freedom

2011-03-15T10:22:00.001Z

Sometimes in life, you have to make your own decisions and choices, stand on your own two feet and if mistakes are made, you learn from them.

During my short 24 years, I have spent far too long listening to other people's decisions and not following my heart, or head. Instead, I'll follow other people's choices and decisions and I'll let them decide on my future. It's because I'm scared, scared to make the wrong decision and to be told "I told you so". Even now though, now that I'm starting to make decisions on my own, people are trying to make choices for me. They tell me Australia is not what I should be doing right now, that I'm just running away from everything, leaving my debts behind and trying to escape my normal 9-5 life. I tell them that I'm 24 and that I just want to live my life, the life I have missed out on since I was 16! My ex has ran off and left me with all these debts which I've been struggling to pay for the last 4 years, he's living a new life with his two children and girlfriend and I'm sick of not being able to start a new life too. Selfish? Yes. But sometimes in life I think you have to be a little selfish. I understand and admit that some of these debts are my fault, some of these mistakes and choices I've made have been wrong, but I'm learning and paying for that.

For now, I just want to live my life. I want to be as free as a bird, as light as a feather, laugh like a hyena and smile like I don't have a care in the world. I want to explore places that I've never been before, sunbathe on a hot Australian beach; meet people from all around the world, from different cultures, to share our experiences. I want to be able to look back on my life and be content. I want to know that I've done what I've done because I wanted to, not because my parents forced me, my aunt and uncle disagreed, my friend's protested. I just want people to be happy for me, to support me and to let me be free.

Laura x

Adele 21

2011-03-12T20:00:00.000Z

I have completely fell in love with this album. It is pure perfection (apart from track 2 which I dislike!)

Adele is absolutely fantastic.

I have found this Radio 1 Live Lounge Special of her singing live. WOW!

Health Update

2011-03-10T19:48:00.001Z

Today I went to the hospital to see my consultant (well, one of his Dr's!) She didn't really know what to do or say (I usually find they don't) and brought the registrar in.

She's suggested another op and some more tablets to take 3 times a day. Joy.

They poked and prodded me a lot which has caused me pain today, taken blood (urgghh), weighed me, made me pee in a bottle(!!!!), took a swab from my nose and told me I had a high temperature (are you surprised after all that?!)

I go in for my laperoscopy on 23rd March. They will be concentrating on looking for endometriosis on the right hand side as this is where I'm getting the pain.

My plan before I go in for my lap:

Buy lots of nice magazines to read

Buy lots of nice, yummy food which is easy to eat (ice cream!!! And lots of biscuits and chocolate)

Have lots of pain killers at hand

Wash my bedding so it's all nice when I come home from hospital

Make sure I have a large supply of loose fitting pjs

Ensure my mum is at hand to boss her around

Hot water bottles at the ready

I haven't told my parents yet... Last time they were not good about it all. My dad asked why my friend couldn't take me to hospital and pick me up again and they didn't even remember the day that I was having my op, so I never reminded them. It's a bit different now I'm living with them though! I'm really worried about how they'll react. I know that sounds stupid, but they'll either not care, or be completely over the top because of the lack of interest they gave me last time.

Anyway, my mother thinks I'm off to see my consultant tomorrow (privately, but managed to get in on the NHS today!?) so hopefully she'll ask me how I got on and I'll just say "oh, they're giving me another lap again" and all will be okay.

I was very, very ill after I had my last one and needed 2 weeks of bed rest :-( I had to be put on two lots of antibiotics in the end as they think I got an infection.

Oh well. At least I'll be all ready, fit and well for Australia.

Laura x

Marchlands

2011-03-10T19:30:00.000Z

After watching, loving and adoring Marchlands (ITV, Thursday night at 9pm) I have had to Google a few of the characters who I think are lovely! I've become a little obsessed on flicking through Google going, ooohh and ahhh. I need to get a life.

Here they are:

Jamie Thomas King

Elliot Cowan

Jodie Whittaker - My girl crush!

Epilator Update

2011-03-08T20:00:00.000Z

I've been using my Braun Epilator for 1 week now. I'm testing and reviewing it as I was sent it from Bzz as I'm a Bzz Agent.

I've tried to use it everyday for the last 7 to see how the hair re-growth compares to shaving and to see whether the hairs do actually become thinner. I can't say I've noticed a difference yet! The hairs are still coming through and at the start of the next day, my legs are still stubbly as they would be from shaving. I also found that my legs are not 100% smooth after epilating (only along my shins) and think that the epilator maybe finds it hard to pick up the hairs here? I've had to go over them 4-5 times to get the fronts of my legs feeling smooth. I'm hoping this will get better the more I use the epilator.

What I have noticed a big difference in though is the overall smoothness and look of the skin. I suffer from the plucked chicken look on my legs after shaving and my legs get very, very dry. Extremely dry. Since epilating, my legs look smoother and the chicken effect is slowly starting to disappear. Very good! My legs also don't feel as irritated and dry as they would if I had shaved.

So, things are okay so far. Not sure about the minimising of hair growth or that the epilator makes my legs as stubble free as shaving, but overall, they're looking healthier and the chicken look is going. Yay!

Laura x

Simplicity

2011-03-08T16:23:00.001Z

"Simplicity is the property of being simple. It usually relates to the burden which a thing puts on someone trying to explain or understand it"

I just want a simple life. Life where people don't argue with me, don't acuse me of things and that are certainly not rude to me.

Just recently in my job, I seem to have received numerous emails through complaining to me that I had done something wrong, acusing me of incorrectly emailing them/phoning them etc and being extremely rude to me. I have had enough!

Everything in life seems to turn into an utter nightmare, even from dining out in a restaurant. I need to be stress free and let these things blow over, but I can't, because they really upset me.

I sold 13 items on eBay. One person complained that the buttons on a £45 warehouse shirt were not sewing on very well... Okay, lets set the scene. The shirt had been worn and washed ONCE and they paid £2 for it! I think I might post them a needle and thread.

What is the world coming to?

Life is too short, it passes us by so fast. Everyone needs to be happier, stop acusing, complaining and being rude. Once in a while smile at a stranger, help an elderly lady onto the bus with her bags, let a car out in front of you when they're waiting, wave to a small child, offer your seat on the train to someone in need, thank someone for the excellent service they have provided and make someones day.

Sometimes, it's the small things that count.

Laura x

I know this is a little moan in itself, but I always try my best to be so helpful and understanding with people and all I find is that it gets thrown back in my face.

Images taken from google - please let me know if these are yours.

Car Boot Time!

2011-03-06T17:43:00.000Z

This morning, me and my friend Amy set our alarms for 6am and set out for a car boot sale. Urgghhhhh!!

It was freezing, but I made sure I put plenty of layers on under my coat (but I was still cold).

I made £80 profit, yay! Amy made £40 as she didn't have as much as me, but we were both really impressed.

We went to Colwick Race Course and paid £8 for our pitch which we thought was quite good. Apparently, this is 'Nottingham's biggest and best car boot sale averaging 220 cars and 2200 buyers each week!' Here.

My £80 will be put towards the costs to see the consultant on Friday. I've decided to pay to go privately to see him as the NHS are messing me around and have now told me to ring back on Wednesday. But if I call back on Wednesday, there's still no confirmation that they'll give me an appointment date. And my health is worth the £140 I'm having to pay. I wouldn't be paying it if I didn't fly to Australia in 7 weeks time. (Gosh, that was worrying typing that I go in 7 weeks time; leave England for a whole year).

Anyway, enjoy the random carboot photos!

Trip to a spa

2011-03-04T19:00:00.000Z

On Tuesday, I took the day off work to visit a spa with my friend. We revisited the Nottingham Belfry Hotel Spa.

The reason we chose to go back is because the package was fantastic. We got full access to the spa facilities (more info to come), a 90 minute treatment (worth £55), a 2 course meal with tea or coffee, robes and a towel for £45 each. We thought this was great as the price of the treatment would have cost more than the whole day!

The facilities are basic and a bit like a David Lloyd gym (but not quite as posh). There's a small gym upstairs with a fitness suite, the spa/treatment area, a pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. The changing rooms aren't great as there's a lot of debris on the floor along with talc and water, there's also no plugs in the changing rooms to straighten your hair! We found this out yesterday. It's a nice relaxing day and depending on the time of day, it does get quite busy (around 3.30pm) when members arrive.

The treatment was very nice, although not quite enough pressure on the massage, but the girls are lovely, very friendly and make you feel at ease. Last time I had my nails done (included in the package) and an indian head massage and I was impressed with both. They often have fantasic deals on, such as the one we booked. This Saturday and Sunday they also have 40% off any treatment.

One thing that I'd really, really like them to do is use some scent in the steam room. It would be nice to have a euplyptus or something relaxing, instead it just smells of well, steam! The spa is most certainly not Aqua Sana at Centre Parcs which I adore, or Eden Hall, but sometimes it's nice to just spend the day relaxing. And to do something which doesn't cost a bomb; I'm pretty sure we'd have paid £45+ for a day at Aqua Sana, and that wouldn't have included any treatments.

Overall, I think it needs a little tidying around the edges, a lick of paint, more seating and some scent in the steam room, but otherwise, it's well worth £45 for a relaxing day.

My Sunday Goodies!

2011-03-02T14:18:00.001Z

On Sunday I had a trip into the City Centre to pick up some bargains. It really was a bargain day and I only ended up spending £4 on my car parking!

Firstly, I went to Costa to pick up some lunch. I had enough points on my card to purchase:

A medium skinny latte
Some yummy chicken caesar salad wraps
An almond croissant

With a full tummy, I went off to MAC and picked up two lovely lipsticks in exchange for 12 MAC empties. I went for See Sheer, a nice orangey red which looks quite natural on my lips and a really nice girly pink colour (which I don't have with me to locate the name).

After this, I decided to spend my lovely Groupon body shop vouchers. I picked up:

A lovely body butter and shower gel duo for my friend's birthday
Vitamin C Daily Moisturiser SPF30 (for Oz)
Vitamin E SPF15 Moisture Lotion (for Oz)
Vitamin E Facial Oil (love it sooo much!)
Vitamin E Moisture Cream
Honey & Oat 3 In 1 Scrub Mask
Camomile Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover (really don't like, it stings my eyes like crazy and it's supposed to be gentle?! I got this free)
A mini Pink Grapefruit Body Butter for free as it was my birthday this month

I was very pleased with my trip. Due to the lack of money I have at the moment (as every penny is being saved), it's great to have a lovely afternoon out in town and not spend anything!

I hope everyone had a lovely weekend, even if we are almost half way through a new week.

Laura x

My current obsessions....

2011-02-28T07:30:00.001Z

I have always love Vitamin Water, but love it even more so since visiting Hong Kong and Australia as I found it everywhere and easily accessible! I'm only really keen on the Power-C, the others taste a bit fake and not very nice.

Okay, another drink!! Coffee. Or a Latte to be more presice. I can't get enough! Costa is my favourite, but nothing beats Australian coffees.

I just can't get enough of knitwear!! I love nothing more than a cute jumper or throwing a cardigan on over a cute top. My friend's think I'm obsessed as everytime I go shopping, I always pick up various cardigans and jumpers whilst they steer me away! I have two draws full of them at home. Not sure what I'm going to do when I'm packing for Oz.

I'm adicted and obsessed to checking my emails. I have gmail up at work, at home and emails come directly through to my phone. I love to keep up with gossip from friends, love my groupon emails and like access first to any new promo jobs that become available!

And of course, this would not be complete without my love and obsession with Australia! My favourite country in the world and somewhere I will be spending 12 months in as of 25th April 2011.

Braun Silk Epil 7 - Update

2011-02-27T21:53:00.000Z

This morning I work up in agony with my stupid endo. The dr diagnosed me last week with possible appendicitis, but now I know what it is. I'm really upset that I'm in so much pain. It's all becoming clear now why I'm so bloated, tired and constantly run down. I fly to Oz in 8 weeks for a year though and now in a panic about what I'm going to do. I can't go if I'm feeling like this, can't afford to go privately and don't have private insurance. All of this doesn't help with my stress and the pain.

Anyway, after waking this morning in so much pain, I decided to give the epilator a go... My mind told me if I can stand pain like this, I can stand the pain of epilation!!

I took it into the shower with me and put the 2-in-1 head on which includes the epilator and a razor (gillette). You have to use this in the shower with shaving gel, but it also comes with a normal epilation sleeve and one for sensitive skin, for example bikini line or under arms. These just click on over the epilation tweezers(?).

First I was being a bit of a wuss and shaved my leg a bit first (as I'd read it hurts less the shorter the hair) and decided to go for it!! I was quite surprised at how minimal the pain was, even on the leg which I didn't shave first. I know how painful it is to pluck my eyebrows and how sore it feels, so was expecting that, but over a larger area, but really, it just feels like a small pricking/burning sensation. Hmm, sort of like rubbing an elastic band up and down?!

I didn't epilate the tops of my legs in the shower, so decided to give it a go now before bed. It hurt a little bit more than when I was in the shower, but nothing that I couldn't handle. I'm even contemplating on trying it on my under arms next time!

My legs look a lot smoother than when I shave. When I shave I get those red bumps on my legs which remind me a plucked chicken, haha, how pretty! But with this, my legs look a lot smoother and less irritated than shaving.

Thumbs up so far! I'm hoping it's really going to minimise the hair growth ready to get my legs out in Oz and so I don't have to take loads of razors with my whilst I'm travelling. Perfect.

The epilator is available at boots and priced at £169.99. I do think this is a lot of money to pay and definitely wouldn't pay it myself unless there was a money back guarantee. I think I'd be more happy to pay £99.99 (as I can think of 101 other things to spend my money at the moment!) I got sent the product to test from Bzz Agent and in return for testing the product, I have to give my honest opinion to friends and family, even if this is negative! My opinion is completely based on the product and I certainly would say if I thought it was rubbish as I wouldn't want people to waste their money buying something crap.

Anyway, I'll keep you posted on the hair regrowth. Exciting times! (Keep your fingers crossed that I can get an appointment with the gyne asap).

Laura x

Body Shop Vouchers - Groupon

2011-02-26T12:26:00.000Z

I was very, very excited on Wednesday. Groupon were selling £30 Body Shop vouchers for £12 - £12!!!! SHOCK!!! I brought two (one for me and one to buy my lovely friend some birthday presents with - something to pamper her).

I've had a look at their website and really like the look of the Vitamin C range and it seems to have really good reviews. I've ran out of moisturiser too (almost) so think I will be purchasing these:

I'm looking forward to doing a bit of shopping tomorrow with my vouchers. I'm on a very tight budget at the moment of around £30 per week. That doesn't include petrol though, so I'm starting to think it's actually quite a lot, concidering I don't buy any food!

I will be purchasing a free coffee, courtsey of Costa's Birthday celebrations! Pick up your points by clicking the link.

Braun Silk-épil 7 Dual Epilator

2011-02-19T16:30:00.000Z

Last night, I got an email through from BzzAgent.co.uk inviting me to a new campagin. They're basically sending me a free Braun Silk-épil 7 Dual Epilator to test and review!!! I was so excited I almost fell out of bed, haha! I've always, always, always wanted to try an epilator before, but never really wanted to buy one incase it's too painful and ends up a waste of money, so this is a perfect opportunity.

It's the Braun Silk-épil 7 Dual Epilator that I'm being sent which is part of the Braun/Gillette range. I've read about it on amazon http://www.amazon.co.uk/Braun-Silk-%C3%A9pil-Epilator-Gillette-Technology/dp/B004EEXR94 and it does look the bees knees!

I'm off to Oz in 9 weeks time, for 12 months and have been worried about hair removal! I'm going to be spending most of the time in skirt/shorts/dresses and spend a fortune on hair removal products, new razor blades and in-growing hair minimiser, so I'm really hoping I'll fall in love with this and it'll do that trick. Plus it looks quite compact for me to carry around (and I can use it wet or dry - I'm hoping the wet option might hurt less).

My mom's off work next week, so I'm hoping to receive it then.

I'll let you know how I get on!!

Laura xx

My 2011 hopes and dreams in pictures

2011-01-09T18:55:00.001Z

All photos taken from www.weheartit.com - please let me know if any of these photos are your's and I will remove/link :-)

Achievements for 2011

2011-01-02T06:13:00.002Z

Okay, it's 6am on a Sunday morning, and I can't sleep, so I want to note down my intended achievements for 2011.

Get down to my goal, 9 stone 7lbs. After putting 6lbs on over Christmas, I now have a stone to loose! I had lost 3 stone since the Summer of 2009, (minus the half now), so what's another one?!

Start back and become committed to my Tuesday night yoga sessions.

Start back and become committed to my Wednesday night circuit training sessions.

Try out pilates, even if its for a few weeks.

Try and do more sewing, if I have the time with everything else!

Save £500+ in an account each month.

Spend only £50 per week until April.

Have a major clear out and manage 2 car boots and a market to make way for my trip to Australia.

Sell my car ready for Oz.

25th April... fly to Australia, Sydney for 12 months.

To think about my future and where its going to take me. But to have as much fun as possible in order to not get bogged down about the future and the major debts that will be over my head when I get back...

To be brave, strong, to make lots of money(!!!), to survive on my own for a year, to become content with my single status (4 years in 2011), to overcome my fear of spiders by living in the outback, to voluenteer (no idea how to spell at 6 am) with at least 2-3 families whilst in Oz, to visit NZ, the Gold Coast, Cairns, Melbourne, Fraser Island and most of all... TO ENJOY LIFE!

I'll stick some photos in once I've got onto my laptop as writing this with my phone :-)

Laura xx
2011 has got to be my year?

A Lovely Quote

2010-12-31T08:43:00.001Z

"Adventure is a path. Real adventure - self determined, self-motivated, often risky - forces you to have firsthand encounters with the world. The world the way it is, not the way you imagine it. Your body will collide with the earth and you will bear witness. In this way you will be compelled to grapple with the limited kindess and bottomless cruelty of humankind - and perhaps realize that you yourself are capable of both. This will change you. Nothing will ever again be black and white." - Mark Jenkins

My mini 2 week adventure in Sydney

2010-12-22T14:19:00.000Z

Hopes and dreams...

2010-12-22T14:11:00.000Z

Gosh, I haven't blogged for over 7 months. I don't know where time has gone to.

So much has changed. In a good way. Life is great. I have no sense of direction, but I have hopes and dreams. And I'm taking hold of those hopes and dreams and following them... All the way to the other side of the world in Sydney.

After my trip there in November, I just can't stop thinking about being back there. The weather, amazing food, beautiful people, beaches and fantastic lifestyle. So, I've booked a flight back out there. 25th April 2011. I'm scared, I'm nervous and I want to pack all my family and friends up to take with me. But I'm not going to. It's my adventure; I'm following my hopes and dreams. I'm going to Australia for 12 months, initially, on a working holiday visa. But hope to extend this by a further 12 months, get offered a sponsorship from an employer, or meet and marry the man of my dreams... This is where my life is about the begin. I'm determined to make it work. For once, I'm doing what I want to do and not thinking too much about the future. What about this, what about that. I'm just going with the flow and I can't wait.

Long time

2010-04-07T16:09:00.001+01:00

Hi all,

It's been a long, long time since I last blogged. Things have been crazy manic here and I just haven't had time to do anything.

Quick few updates - all mostly good happy things which make me smile:

My house mate packed her stuff after an argument (best thing really)

I almost put a deposit down on an apartment to be told they're not moving anymore. Just in the nick of time.

I'm now moving back to parents once this house has new tenants in.

I'm hopefully going to Turkey in May, depending on how quickly this house gets rented cause of money.

Me and my friend Ali are going to a spa next week :-)

I'm going for a meal with Amy tomorrow night (mystery shop meal!)

Friday its off to do a mystery shop at the cinema with Sam and for a meal at Franky and Bennies (sp?)
I still have a £45 gift voucher to spend at Aveda Spa!

I'm going to Australia in November!

I'm now down to 10st 6, 6lb to go!

Wahooo, happy times :-)

Bad thing... I've been off work today and yesterday because I've had a horrible sickness bug. Ewww.

Laura xx

National Endometriosis Awareness Week

2010-03-08T15:47:00.008Z

National Endometriosis Awareness Week 8th - 14th March

http://www.endometriosis-uk.org

This says it all... Please raise the awareness of Endometriosis.

98% of the people I speak to about the disease, don't have a clue what it is.

Vaseline Sheer Infusion - Last Update

2010-03-08T13:23:00.000Z

I've got some fab, skin care tips from Dr Pixie McKenna, via Vaseline Sheer Infusions. This is my last week of working with Vaseline, testing their new product - Sheer Infusion and handing out samples.

Enjoy the tips :-) And don't forget to visit www.vaselinesheerinfusion.co.uk and also www.vaseline.co.uk where you can view the video.

1. Central heating and air conditioning really dry the skin out. Compensate for this by re-hydrating skin deep down, otherwise the winter months could spell the season of dryness for your complexion.
2. Drink at least 2 pints of water per day to promote internal hydration. Augment its effects externally by hydrating your skin at the surface, to deep within its core with a specialist moisturising lotion such as Vaseline Sheer Infusion
3. Alcohol and its toxins will dehydrate your skin. Detox and revitalise your skin with a hydrating moisturiser, complete with a skin fix of vitamins and minerals.
4. Don’t stay in the bath for longer than 15 minutes, it water logs your skin and ironically dries you out. Trap the moisture in your skin from surface to core with a super hydrating moisturising lotion such as new Vaseline Sheer Infusion as soon as you step out.
5. Save the planet and save your skin by limiting showers to a 5-minute quick fix. Use the left over time to replenish lost moisture with a penetrating moisturising lotion.
6. Don’t use harsh soaps or detergents on the skin, it’s like to putting it through a car wash! Counter balance the harsh car wash chemicals with a shimmer of sophisticated super hydrating moisturiser.
7. Scratch that annoying patch of dry skin on a daily basis and in no time at all you will have a patch of dermatitis. Instead of damaging scratches, dry patches need the nourishment and protection of a moisturising lotion.
8. Invest in moisturising lotion that has vitamins, minerals and nutrients, such as the Vaseline Sheer Infusion range, which boosts hydration and promotes healthy skin. Vaseline Sheer Infusion Vitamin Burst is packed with Vitamins B and E to banish that dull skin tone once and for all.
9. Skin moisturisation should be just as important as all your other daily beauty rituals. Invest in a light non greasy moisturising lotion that you love and your skin will reward you by remaining soft and smooth.
10. Avoid drying out like a wrinkled old prune by prompting the drying effects of the environment and sliding on a super hydrating moisturiser. Remember dryness breeds wrinkles.
11. Don’t be tempted to apply layer upon layer of thick greasy moisturiser to the skin, as layering traps heat as well as moisture. You will soon heat up and want to scratch it all off. Instead, apply a light, silky dose of super hydrating Vaseline Sheer Infusion to keep skin looking its best.
12. The deep penetrating rays of the sun dry skin out. These need to be combated by an equally penetrative moisturiser that sustains moisture and remains in the deeper layers.
13. Smoking squeezes the moisture out of your skin, so extinguish your puff and replenish the moisture with a superior hydrating moisturiser to prevent dry lacklustre smoker’s skin.

The Sheer Infusion is on offer with a 1/3 off in Boots at the moment. I went to stock up yesterday and my local Boots was shut?! Since when does Boots shut on a Sunday... Darn.

Have a lovely week all. Will try and blog later in the week buy have a busy one.

Garnier Mineral Deodorant

2010-03-07T21:51:00.000Z

I saw the new Garnier Mineral Deodorant in Tesco and have been using it for over 2 weeks now. It was on special offer for £1.

I've seen lots of people blogging about it and thought I'd give it a try. I'm always on the look out for new deodorants, but so far, have not found anything that competes with Dove's.

I've put it to the test during a crazy day at work, circuit training and an hour at the gym. And, I think it compares to my Dove!

I also usually have a problem with scents of deodorants, but this one smells fresh, clean and nice. I don't like scents that linger too much, that you can smell through your clothes. To me a deodorant should just stop you from smelling! It shouldn't act as a perfume. The Garnier one is pretty good at this. It smells nice, but I don't find it lingers too much.

The only down side I've found is that it's really hard to roll on, the roller seems to get stuck and wont roll. It's quite frustrating when I'm in a rush in the morning.

The other thing I'm not too keen about is the lid - it doesn't really stay on very well and just sort of clicks into place rather than screwing on.

Apart from these faults, I really do like it. I'm not sure if I'd repurchase though because of the difficulty of me using the product and the roller getting stuck. I have however, picked up one of the sprays today. So I'll see how I get on with this.

Laura xx

Front Cover Eyeshadow Collection

2010-02-28T19:53:00.000Z

I was sooo excited about this I couldn't wait to blog.

In 2008, a friend brought me the above pallet from Front Cover at Boots. It's amazing. It contains every colour you ever need! It cost £30, but was on a 3 for 2 at Christmas in 2008. AND NOW, Boots have brought it back after a petition and at an introductory rate of £15 - WOW!

Some of the colours in mine do not hold their pigment very well, this is mainly the darker ones and I do find I need a few coats. I find using a smaller, more dense brush works better. But apart from that, I have no complaints!

It's on at £15 until 23rd March so I'd grab one quick. They're a great thing to keep in for presents!

Hope you're all having a good weekend. I received a box full of Vaseline Sheer Infusion Samples to distribute on Friday which I was really excited about! I'll be posting about it all soon :-)

Laura xx

Pastel Jeans

2010-02-22T12:07:00.001Z

Another Monday again.

I'm also in a bad mood today. Had a right argument with my house mate last night. Haven't heard back from her after my really, really long text where I ranted on about how much she's annoyed me. Grrr...

Anyway, onto another topic. I received an email through from ASOS and I'm strangely attracted to these pastel skinny jeans. Really am tempted to buy a pair when I get some dosh through ready for the Spring. I think they're really Spring/Summery and would love lovely with pastel coloured tops.

On the line of clothing, I'm off out to a posh Ala carte restaurant on Saturday night and not sure what to wear. I want to wear my lovely Tesco top again (see older posts) but everyone has already seen it! I'm thinking to maybe go for my Topshop blue and white spotty dress, but not sure how big it is on me anymore. I've also got a really nice Warehouse dark silk purple dress, but again, it's a bit like a tent on me, but better than the Topshop one.

I'll try and take some photos later if I remember, and, if I'm home before 10pm as don't want to bump into my housemate and have a face to face argument with her too :-p

Laura xx

Spring...

2010-02-18T20:11:00.003Z

It doesn't feel like it at the moment but Spring is on it's way and will hopefully be here before we know it. I'm sick of this cold weather, snow and 10 layers. Bring on the butterflies, daffodils, freshly cut grass, sunny mornings, lunch in the garden, walks around the park and summer sun kissed skin.

I've just seen this new Mac on the M&S website and am totally in love:

I love the colour, but also interested in the Lime. I love bright colours in the Spring because in Winter I seem to live in black. How dowdy. The Mac is a bargain at £35, but just wondering if Asda may do an equivalent for less!! I'm sure a cheap skate... Or maybe just on a budget.

Ahh, got me thinking about laying in my garden sun bathing now :-)

My feelings

2010-02-14T22:10:00.003Z

These photos all sum up how I feel today... I'll be fine again tomorrow, but just really aching and missing a certain someone. So sad that he walked away. I still hope that one day, he'll realise his mistake and he'll walk back. But if not, I just have to take a deep breath and move on and realise it just wasn't meant to be, even if it did feel so right.

All photos taken from weheartit.com - if they're yours, please let me know and I'll link them up. :-)

MAC to the beach - May 2010

2010-02-14T16:47:00.003Z

This collection is getting me really excited - and I've not brought any makeup (apart from necessities for a few years as I did start to get really bad loading up my credit cards with £200+ a month in makeup...) so this collection is something that I think i'm going to put some money aside for.

The collection is going to be launched in the UK in May 210.

These are a few photos of the things I especially love.

Hmm, i'm just hoping we get the bag in the UK because I love it!! Really Summer and gorgeous, loving the corals. Very me!!

And lastly, Happy Valentines Day to everyone :-) A great article I just read is here, all about kissing - made me smile!!

Dear 16 year old self

2010-02-12T22:32:00.003Z

Tonight, I came across a blog full of letters entitled 'Dear 16 year old me...' This went on to inspire me to write my own letter. It could be pages and pages long, but I managed to pick the key points.

I wrote it. I cried. I cried a lot. It was sad to think about the past - it wasn't a happy place. Not because of anything but myself. I had everything. The world was my oyster. But I wouldn't believe that. I didn't believe anything, especially not in myself.

Here goes...

Dear 16 year old me,

I know, life, it’s a rocky road. It has its ups and downs. More ups than you think you know. Teenage years are for being happy and having fun, that’s what you should do. Be carefree, spread your wings, feel how good it is to have no responsibilities, to be happy. Because deep down you are, you just don’t know how to find it.

Please take on board my advice, because no one else is brave enough to give this to you. Only your older self.

Keep busy, go out, see your friends and keep your family close to your side. They’ll be there for you. They’ll travel to the end of the world and back again for you – especially your dad who will grow to become not only your dad, but also your friend later in life.

Love hurts. Love hurts more than any physical pain you’ll ever feel when it goes wrong. You’ll always love him, but unfortunately my dear, you’re just going to have to walk away from this one. Later in life you’ll kiss, fumble, realise you’re still in love, but walk away. Because you know it’s the right thing to do. Because you can’t be with this man.

Ben is not the love of your life; he is not the man that will give you everything you want in your life. You may think this now, but it’s just that you’re too scared to walk away. And you’re only 16. Please don’t be scared, have faith in yourself, be brave. Surround yourself with happy things and you’ll get through it. Don’t stay with him, this will later haunt you. Please leave before you get in too deep.

Don’t ever have the depo injection. It will ruin you. Destroy your health. You’ll later have immense pain and end up in hospital. Please don’t be scared though, because everything will work out in the end. You’ll have to take tablets for the rest of your years, but generally you’ll be fit and healthy.

College is everything; college should be your life. Remember I said to be carefree, with no responsibilities? Well, make sure you stay at college and this will happen. You’ll decide what you want to do sooner or later. Just stick with it, down the yellow brick lane. Life will become exciting.

Getting older doesn’t make you miss you Grandparents any less, but you learn to reminisce on the good times, they’ll bring a smile to your face. You’ll still miss them all very much, especially when you buy your first house, have your first proper break up and feel like the worlds caving in. But they’ll be there for you, in spirit.

Credit cards are evil and will be the death of your finances. Never let anyone persuade you into taking one out on your 18th birthday. They’re too tempting for a shopaholic! Your debts will spiral out of control and cause you problems later in life. Just relax, you have plenty of money to get by while living at home. Talking about home, this is your home. Don’t move out unless it’s to whiz off to uni. Stay here for as long as you can. Take advantage of rent free living. There are plenty of years ahead of you to pay rent and rack up a huge mortgage. You need to wait though, until after Ben.

For one night, I think that’s all the advice I can give.

Take care, remember you can be happy. You just need to believe in yourself and the happiness will follow. No one else can make you happy, your boyfriend, your friends, your family, the latest dress from Topshop, unless you can make yourself happy. Once you are content, the rest of your life will follow. Don’t grow up too quickly. Enjoy being a teenager. You only get one chance.

Please don’t be sad reading this. You’ll make lots of mistakes that you’ll look back on and groan at – that’s life! But you’ll also gain lots of life experience, meet some fantastic friends, learn some valuable, life changing skills and find out about who you really are on the incredible journey you have ahead.

Smile...

From 23 to 16.

Laura xx

Skin

2010-02-09T19:58:00.002Z

Okay, after this weekend working for Lancome, I really think I'm going to have to invest some of the cash (or all of it) on some new beauty products. My skin is AWFUL.

My cheeks are really spotty, itchy and sore. I don't know what's happened.

I take tetracycline everyday, yet it seems to have stopped working :-(

I'm at my wits end. I just want to scratch my cheeks. It makes me wonder if i've had a reaction to something? Or maybe the vitamins etc that i'm taking really are cleansing my liver and releasing the toxins out into my skin? Should I stick by it?

Can anyone help me?

Please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! xx

Lancome

2010-02-09T19:08:00.003Z

Hello all, I have some exciting news!! I'm going to work for Lancome on Saturday :-) Just for the day.

I really, really need to get reading up on their products. I have no idea really about Lancome, it's not one of my prefered brands at the moment. I've used a lot of their products in the past, mostly blusher and foundation, but currently I don't have a clue about their new collections (like the one above).

I'm searching the site looking for products which look similar to things I already have, so that it appears I'm wearing Lancome products. Can't go in with a neon eyeshadow on and start telling everyone 'yeah it's from MAC, isn't it nice'!!!

Anyway, better shoot. My friend's here.

Byee xx

Purchases

2010-02-07T18:50:00.005Z

I brought these tights from Next yeterday - and they're FAB!! I wore them last night under my birthday dress and they really did help to help my stomach pulled in. My bum was firm, my hips were smooth - no lumps and bumps, no horrible tight line around your middle. Well worth £6! A bit of a bugger to get on first of all, thought I was going to rip them. But once they're on, they're feeling good!!

I'd say these would be ideal if you're on a hot date rather than those frumpy pants you can buy!

My gorgeous necklace I brought from Accessories to go with my simple black dress (see below). I thought it was really cute and a bit vintage. Setting me back £12.

I *LOVED* this necklace and HAD to buy it. I saw it and instantly fell in love. It's also from Accessories - £12. They do a bracelet to match which I think was around £10, but cutting back on my spending so didn't buy it. I can't wait to wear it :-) Think i'll wear it to work tomorrow.

I'm starting to feel quite ill again now :-( Really flued up again, tired, achey, blocked/runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, croaky voice. Feeling sorry for myself! Think I'm going to make myself one of my herbal teas to help my throat. I'm drinking the Lipton Red Fruit at the moment - I love them. So refreshing.

I've actually found something amazing to do with them too, I let them cool and put them in the fridge and they're yummy. Will be great in the summer.

Blogging out :-)

Laura xx

Vaseline "Sheer Infusion" - 2nd week update

2010-02-07T09:28:00.002Z

Morning :-)

Just a quick upate on the Sheer Infusion moisturiser I've been using while working with Vaseline.

It's still working very well and I'm happy with the results. I will not be switching back to my old moisturiser and not sure what to do with all the half empty bottles I've got left - I think my house mate would be very pleased with these and take them off my hands!!!

Anyway, I'm going to note my top 5 things that I like about the product :-)

1. It contains something called Stratys-3 which takes moisturising to a brand new level. Not only does it moisturise the top layers of your skin, but it also penetrates deep down. All this new technology eh?!

2. The one I'm testing (Botanical Blend) contains cypress & eucalyptus extract which sooths and calms the skin (I think this is why I haven't had any breakouts while using it which is amazing!!)

3. A little bit goes a long way. Because it's so moisturising - but without being greasy which I find with some moisturisers, you don't need to slap loads of it on! So a bottle will last.

4. The smell. It's lush, enough to keep your skin smelling nice but not enough to overpower you. I read some other reviews on the product and a few people said it smelt too strong but I most certainly don't think it does. It just smell, hmm, kinda natural and comforting.

5. The bottle. I hate body lotions that squirt out everywhere and you end up slathering it everywhere to try and dispense it. I don't understand how this bottle is different, but I always get a nice blob out everytime I squeeze and not a handful!!

Anyway, I'll leave it there. I know it's not very exciting but there will be more exciting stuff to come with regards to Sheer Infusions - honestly :-) Maybe some lovely skin tips from a Dr and maybe even a few samples to give away! Keep reading.

Well, as it's a Sunday morning (a lazy one) and I'm recovering from being ill :-( I'm going to cook myself something nice for breakfast and drink one of my fruit teas. (3 weeks this week I've had no caffeine - I feel so proud, and i'm keeping up my vitamins and minerals and THINK i'm starting to feel better - less pains, less bloating, more energy WOW).

Have a good Sunday, might blog later if I get round to it.

Laura xx

Birthday Presents

2010-02-05T17:37:00.002Z

These are my lovely Birthday presents from my work colleagues. I also got a £45 Aveda Gift Voucher (going to have a stone body massage I think) and then Neil also paid for my meal and all of the wine!!

Two of my friends gave me money, I got a cheque from my aunt and uncle and my parents are paying for my car tax which is due at the end of February rather than just giving me the money to spend on nothing. (My lovely Daddy also paid my sewing course so I class that as an extra bday present).

A few of my friends have said my present is on it's way still.

I think this birthday has been one of the best. Oh, apart from last night... I got in, went to bed & then woke up and threw up all over my bed :'-( After that I just couldn't stop being sick. I was sick everywhere... It was awful. I was so hot as well and had really bad tummy ache. Today has been spent doing NOTHING because I've felt so ill. I've only eaten 6 chicken dippers all day because I physically couldn't face toast.

I'm just waiting for my friend and her boyfriend to arrive from Bournemouth and then we're supposed to be going to my local for a Thai. I think I'm just going to have some plain noodles with veg and maybe a little bit of chicken seeing as I've eaten chicken today and been able to keep it down. What a horrible end to my lovely birthday! Well, at least no men upset me this year!!

Birthday outfit

2010-02-04T09:29:00.002Z

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!! 23 today :-)

Teaming with black skinny jeans and gold accessories!! Off to a really, really nice restaurant later for a meal (3 course baby - let's pile on those pounds it's my birthday!!) and for a few drinks afterwards. Lovely stuff :-)

Just waiting for Stacey to come and do my nails (gel), then my friend Sam's coming over, might cook lunch if she's lucky! After that, I'm going to nip to our local boots to pick up a comb as mine snapped and some false eyelashes.

I went to see my friend and her week old baby, Maisie last night - she's gorgeous. Sooo broody! Can't wait to have children myself.

Might blog in a bit seeing as I have some spare time on my hands today.

Laura xx

The birthday dress!!

2010-02-02T19:47:00.002Z

I've FINALLY ordered my birthday dress from Asos, going to be teamed with some funky tights (like the photos), a big necklace (I like the one on the photo above ) and some black heels.

All ready to party!!

Will take photos of my Thursday night outfit too, shortly.

Laura xx

Vaseline "Sheer Infusion" - 1 week update

2010-01-31T14:10:00.004Z

Hi all, just a quick update on the "Sheer Infusion" Vaseline Body Lotion that i've been testing while working with Vaseline.

Here's a photo of my leg after a week. The red bumps are gone, my skin is so smoother and softer and I'm much happier :-) (just need to sort the skin out on my face now... It's looking horrible and really angry, owch)

I really am impressed with the results - and it's not brought my out in any breakouts on my back or chest either. Think this will be added to my HG list. Actually, that might be my next blog post - watch out!!!

The Vaseline Sheer Infusion comes out tomorrow (in the UK) - I've already received an email through from Boots advsertising the product!

Off to IKEA now to pick up some fabric - i'm making PJ bottoms!!

Laura xx

Vaseline Sheer Infusion

2010-01-26T16:33:00.002Z

I've recently been working with Vaseline and testing one of their new moisturisers "Sheer Infusion". As you all know from previous posts, I suffer with very, very dry, peeling skin on my arms, legs and back but am also prone to breakouts so have to becareful what I use. Because the "Sheer Infusion" Moisturiser delivers twice as much moisture as the previous brand I've been using (Dove), I've found that my skin is a lot smoother and softer and with no nasty breakouts as these are especially bad on my back and chest :-( I'm actually contemplating that the Vaseline "Sheer Infusion" has soothed my skin and minimised any breakouts - maybe my skin is just lacking moisture which is why it breaks out?

Anyway, I've been using it every morning after I've showered for the last two days and found it's improved the texture of my skin. Some creams that are suitable for dry skin that are really moisturising take a long time to sink into your skin, therefore they just sort of sit on top - not great when you're in a hurry in the morning, but Vaseline's "Sheer Infusion" is really easy to apply and sinks into the skin pretty quickly, still leaving me with plenty of moisture.

I've attached a photo of how my skin looked before I applied "Sheer Infusions" (horrible, bumpy, scaly and red) and hope to follow this up with a another Blog post on Saturday / Sunday time. I might even try a video as I've recently been hooked to the You Tube Beauty Reviews, so might give one a whirl myself!

The "Sheer Infusion" is launched in the UK on 1st February.

Laura xx

Caffeine

2010-01-26T11:02:00.001Z

The dreaded... I had a cup of decaff tea this morning. I was in a panic when I got to work and needed a cuppa! Some silly cow on the way to work drove straight into the back of me - luckily no damage was done to my car but I was really shook up. She only hit me doing about 10-15mph and it just worried me about the impact that would happen if she had been driving 30mph. I jolted forward and felt my whole car shunt forward when she hit me at that speed so it scared me a little that people have accidents at much higher speeds and the force that their bodies must be under upon the collision. Urrghhh :-( Don't want to think of it.

So yes, when I got to work, I had a decaff tea. It contains 0.2% caffeine so not too bad.

On a good note though - it's pay day today!! So I can order my vitamins, that dress from Asos if it's still available (the £16 one for my birthday), do some online grocery shopping tonight, fill my car up with petrol and afford to go out on Saturday night for my friend's 30th. Wahooo!!

Anyway, I better be back to work - not that a lot is happening today. I'm pretty bored, and hungry. Watching the clock tick by ready for my dinner!!

Laura xx

Birthday Dress

2010-01-24T14:15:00.004Z

I'm on the hunt for a dress to wear for one of my 4 birthday nights out!!

The first night out is a girly evening at my friends, prob with a Chinese as she's due to have a c-section next Wednesday :-D And won't be able to make it out for my actual birthday. This will be a jeans and jumper night. Something to chill out in.

The next night, it'll be my amazing £12 top from Tesco which is gorgeous and a bargain for £12! I'll be teaming this with black skinny jeans and my leopard print shoes. Gold accessories is a must to give it a bit of glitz. [Photo will be inserted asap!!]

Friday night is a Thai at my local with my lovely friend Heather, and her boyfriend Lawrence. They're coming up from Bournemouth. And she'll get to see my lovely new house :-) Can't wait to see her. This will involve jeans, a nice top (yet to purchase) and heels. Tart up my new hair a bit incase there's any fitties at the local (haha!!) and makeup to match.

The Saturday is my BIG night out, wooop! And I need a new dress. I don't have a lot of money, so budget is under £50 really. I did want something ridiculously over the top and sexy, but then, will I ever wear it again if it's crazy sparkly and cries birthday celebrations? So, I've been surfing the net for something a bit cute, and very me. I've found these:

Asos.com

Topshop.com

Asos.com

I'm thinking my favourite one is the last one, for £16!!! Yes, £16. But knowing my luck, by Tuesday - Pay Day, they won't have any left in a size 12 :-( So my fingers are crossed. I think I'd wear it with silver bling and maybe some black stilettos, and tights depending on how short it is on me.

Hmmm, anyway. I'm going to keep surfing to see if I can find anything else.

Laura x

Caffeine free - Day four

2010-01-24T13:15:00.004Z

Right, today is day four of no caffeine and I feel okay!! (I have been a bit naughty and had a few mouthfuls of chocolate though, but not a lot - just eating up my Christmas chocolate).

I feel pleased that I've managed 4 days. But once I've got past a week I'll be happier.

The only think I'm not happy with at the moment is my skin :-( I've been eating healthier, drinking A LOT more water and getting my full 8 hours sleep a week - but my skin has completely broken out. It's only on my left cheek though. It's really red, angry and going to scar REALLY bad :-( I've been using my Salicylic Acid, but not sure whether this is making it worse? Because it's drying my skin out so much it makes it itchy. And I'm also not sure whether because it's unbonding the first few layers of skin, whether it's actually reblocking my pores. I can't wait for it to be Spring so I can (I know I know) get back on the sunbed. I go on once a week, or once every two weeks and it does AMAZING things for my skin. My back and chest are spot and scar free, and my face becomes as smooth as a babies bottom.

But for now. I'm just going to have to put up with rubbish skin. And use an extra layer of Double Wear!!

Laura x

Cutting out the Caffeine

2010-01-22T13:46:00.001Z

Okay, today is my second day of cutting out the caffeine.

Today, I am struggling. The more I think about a lovely hot cup of tea, or a nice creamy skinny latte, the more I want one. Usually each day, I drink around 4 - 5 cups of tea or coffee. Yesterday and today I've been drinking nettle tea, a raspberry and echinacea tea and water - lots of it. I'm not sure whether it's just my imagination as to my headache and complete lack of energy, or whether I really am feeling the withdrawal symptoms of cutting out the caffeine.

Tonight I'm going to struggle even more. I'm off to the pub. I don't drink a lot of alcohol, just the odd 1/2 a pint of Guinness Red, so I stick with coke. But no coke for me tonight! I'm trying to find out whether lemonade contains caffeine, but me and my colleagues don't think it does. Here's where Google comes in!

Did you know how much caffeine the following contain?

Can of cola 40mg

Cup of tea 50mg

Cup of instant coffee 75 mg

Mug of coffee 100 mg

Can of stimulant drink 80 mg

Bar of plain chocolate 50 mg

Taken from here.

I've also read on the above site, that 'Symptoms include headaches, fatigue or drowsiness, depression and irritability, difficulty concentrating and flu-like symptoms of nausea, vomiting and muscle pain or stiffness. Peak intensity comes between one and two days, and the symptoms last for two to nine days. In general, the study found the more caffeine you consumed, the worse the withdrawal symptoms. If you want to give up, the researchers say a gradual step by step reduction will break the addiction without any pain.'

So, maybe I should just be cutting down. It says a gradual step by step reduction is the best way to easy out of it. The main reason I want to give it up is because it keeps the liver working hard, stopping it from filtering out other toxins. And so my research says, the liver is the key organ to my endo. My liver will either make my endo better, or worse - depending on what I'm consuming. I've also just read that cutting out caffeine all together too quickly (if you're a heavy drinker which I wouldn't say I was) can cause your blood pressure to drop dramatically too... Gosh, all this sounds more dangerous that actually drinking it!! Stick the kettle on!

No, I'm determind to do it. Even if it's just over the weekend. Cause I never drink tea or coffee at the weekend and I'm always alright, so why is two days during the week any different? See, I'm taking myself into it. I'm fine :-)

Anyway, back to work me thinks.

Laura x

2010

2010-01-19T13:02:00.005Z

Here's 2010 in words and pictures, my hopes and dreams :-)

A nice holiday with my parents and brother, only to Spain/Majorca way - but all inclusive is on the cards :-) Thanks to my lovely Dad.

A trip out to Australia to see my friend Tom. (This means saving an AWFUL lot of money £1,500 at least and to be honest, I'm not sure whether I'd prefer to pay that off a credit card instead? £11,000 outstanding which includes my loan... Damn...)

To start my college course in September 2010 :-) It should be free too because it's my first Level 3 qualification.

Start my Level 2 Dress making course in February :-)

Start my second job (*fingers crossed*) so I can start earning some extra dosh... Working with L'oreal companies such as Lancome, Biotherm, Shu Uemura and also a bit of work for Laura Mercier and YSL.

Start taking my long list of vitamins and herbs to make my belly and endo better!!

Join my local gym with my lovely friend Wendy

Start weekly Wednesday night Circuit Training

To continue my market research, product testing and brand ambassador work to earn me extra cash

Progress well in my job and earn myself a pay rise

To catnap my little boy, Phoenix which my ex took 2.5 years ago :-(

To have LOTS of fun and enjoy every minute spent with my friends and family...

I will add more when I think. Tired now and off to bed :-) Laura xx

All photos found from google.co.uk

Detox

2010-01-17T11:09:00.010Z

Okay, my rant from the other night is over... I'm happy again :-) My stomach is relatively flat again today so I'm trying to work out what I eat during the week which bloats me, which I don't eat at the weekend. So far, I can only think of tea?! It can't be the milk in the tea either because I made a hot chocolate yesterday with milk in? Strange... The other thing it could be is stress, because I do run around like a headless chicken talking to Regional Leads about funding issues with the DoH which I don't even really understand!! But I just get left to it, to hold the fort. So I get on with it. But do get stressed, hence the bloated, seriously uncomfortable belly? Who knows.

Anyway, onto the post. I've been reading about Weekend Detoxs after reading people's blog posts about them going ahead with the Detox to try and cleanse their system. I found a really good weekend one which involves eating home made vegetable soup for lunch along with drinking various vitamins and eating salad for tea with home made dressing. It doesn't sound too bad at all, really manageable. Especially in a weekend.

I also read about David Kirschwellness Lemonaid 48 hour Detox. (Via Amy's blog) Which again, sounds very good and manageable.

With regards to the Detox, I've also been reading up on Vitamins & Minerals etc which I could take to help me (I briefly mentioned in ranting post!) Anyway, here is my list:

Flaxseed (Linseed) Oil - 500 milligrams two times every day is what I have been advised. Flaxseed Oil is very high in omega-3, great for your bones, can help your digestive system and helps combat constipation which is a big problem with endo. It helps promote the production of good bacteria in the intestines which is what can cause the bloatedness. I've also read that it will help to increase your energy levels! Sounds great!

Aloe Vera Colon Cleanse - Taken from here: 'Aloe’s great benefits in treating various health ailments. Aloe’s one of the prime benefits is to cleanse the colon effectively without any harmful or unwanted effects. Aloe contains ample amount of Vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients that can help removing toxins from the body, especially from the intestines. The herb, in any form, can relieve from abdominal cramps and can rejuvenate the entire gastrointestinal tract.' All of this sounds good. I just hope it doesn't act too much like a laxative!!

Acai Berry Capsules (500mg) - These are supposed to be miracle tablets!! They contain VERY high levels of powerful antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. People who are trying to loose weight take them to increase their metabolism. Overall, the health benefits sound fab!

Probiotics - Naturally help rebuild the good bacteria in the intestines and bring the body back into balance. Hopefully they'll help with the horrible bloatedness and aim to get me back on track. I've taken them before, for around 3 months and felt so much better, but when I ran out, I forgot to stock back up again.

Vitamin E - 400 IU two times daily. Vitamin E helps to fight toxins in your body. I need to ensure that I don't overdose myself on Vitamin E. The maximum daily recommended dose is less the 1000 IU per day, otherwise it can have the opposite effect on your body and cause it to create toxins.

Vitamin C - 1000 mg thrice daily. Helps to increase your immune system and fight against viruses.

Milk Thistle Capsules - Milk thistle helps to cleanse the liver (so are great for people who drink a lot of alcohol!) The liver stores excess estrogen, and the Milk Thistle will help to break down this and flush it out of the body. For people with endometriosis, Estrogen is a bad thing to have as it feeds the endo and causes it to increase. One website states: Some milk thistle clinical trials show that milk thistle benefits may include reducing inflammation, decreasing excessive skin cell growth and helping treat endometriosis.

I've been reading an awful lot about Chinese medicine and basically they believe that endometriosis is started because of a poor functioning liver. I've taken this extract from nativeremedies.com:

'Traditional Chinese and Oriental medicine has a different understanding and approach to the cause of endometriosis – but one which fits the current scientific knowledge and would fill in many of the gaps in scientists’ theories. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, endometriosis is classified as a liver disorder and associated with liver stagnation. In every woman with endometriosis the underlying cause for this liver blood stagnation may be slightly different but the outcome is similar.

Recent studies have supported this theory and implicated chronic exposure to dioxins (an environmental pollutant) to both liver health and endometriosis independently. Unfortunately, for women living a modern lifestyle, avoiding these dioxins would be very difficult as they are found in a large proportion of all fish, meat and dairy products produced for human consumption. A compromised liver would also play a part in weakening the immune system – once again a factor implicated in endometriosis.

Eating foods that are understood to be liver-weakening is also a problem of modern lifestyle and endometriosis. Refined foods, especially those containing wheat flour and sugar, deep fried foods, caffeine and ice-cold drinks, all compromise liver functioning and should be avoided by women in general, but particularly those with a predisposition to or past experience of endometriosis. Stress is also a big enemy of liver health and in Chinese medicine the liver is considered the most emotion-sensitive organ of the body.'

Hmm... anyway, on that note, I'm going to list a few things on eBay and make some lunch.

All images have been taken from Holland and Barrett which is where I will be purchasing most of my capsules from.

Visanne

2010-01-15T20:16:00.002Z

I found out yesterday that a new drug has been given the go ahead for Europe for Endometriosis. It's called Visanne. But I'm struggling to find out a lot about it. Apparently it contains 2mg of dienogest which is a synthetic hormone (progestogen which I can have!) but it worries me that upon researching it a little more, it's a synthetic steroid... Steroids are not good for your body right? But surely me taking HTR tablets which people take when they have breast cancer and other horrible things are not good?

Anyway, I found this 'In summary, dienogestdirectly acts on endometrial tissue in progestogenic response,such as decidualization, increased prolactin production andgrowth retardation. These data imply that dienogest exerts directeffect in suppressing growth of endometriotic implants.' So in I'm tired and worn out English, this means it helps to reduce the size on the endometrial lesions? Therefore reducing my MANY symptoms?

Hmmm, I want to know exactly how strong and bad the tablets are. I want to read about people's experiences of taking them. I need more information before I get excited.

I'm going to Holland and Barrett when I get paid, I've a list of tablets which may help me to feel better. Since returning to work after my Christmas break, I've never felt so exhausted and energy-less :-( I'm bloated BIG time, I feel uncomfortable, I do not have the energy to do anything, I just want to sleep from 7pm at night and take naps in the afternoon. I keep getting cramping, I get pains shooting pains in the tops of my legs along with aching muscles and my skin is horrible again including my back :-( And, I can't remember the last time I had a period. A proper normal 4-5 day one with a few weeks break. Do you know what, I can't even remember how long every cycle is! I think, ummm.... It was about 5 years ago, and even then it was FAR from normal.

Anyway, I'm just moaning. I just need to moan and get it all out before I go to bed! I know there are tons of people worse off that me out there, and I know that some people can't get out of bed in the morning - I couldn't if it wasn't for my morning supplement(!!!) of hormones hahaha!

I'm starting to ramble now and write off track. I'll blog more beauty soon, honest!!!

Night :-)

Strange...

2010-01-12T20:00:00.001Z

This is my strange tarrort reading for tomorrow which I wanted to post:

'Wednesday, January 13
Knight of Cups Reversed
A young man unable to commit to a relationship. Difficulty in sticking to one thing for any length of time. May feel an inner stirring too often to be settled in relationships. Not mature enough to handle all intricacies of partnerships. A wanderer. A philanderer. Unfocused and unwilling to see things through to the end. A man unconcerned with the hearts that he breaks.'

Very, very strange.

And this is about my 'current' situation:

'Ten of Pentacles
Affluence all around you. Wealth of spirit and resources. Plenty to share with loved ones and friends. Financial security has been reached. Time to create a foundation that will secure wealth for long-term. Family life is in order. Cycle is at an end and you can be satisfied with your work. Stability is at hand. Relax and enjoy time with your loved ones.'

Again, very strange...

2009 in words and photos :-)

2010-01-07T20:47:00.004Z

On Lily loves Lola Victoria did a blog post looking over the last 12 months. I want to do the same to remember the last year, or probably NOT remember the last year!! I'll try and include photos where possible :-)

January 2009
It's a bit of a blur really, general winter blues wishing it'd be Spring. On a lot of strong pain killers, in a lot of pain, in and out of hospital waiting for my operation.

February 2009
My birthday - another bad one! Seeing a guy who messed with my head AGAIN, when do I ever learn?! Went on a weekend away to London with him, rinsed lots of his money and finished with him as found out he had a long term girlfriend. Heather came to visit me from Bournemouth and cheered me up loads.

Really starting to pile on the lbs now. Almost 13 stone... Argghhh...

March 2009
Spent wishing I was somewhere else, feeling pretty depressed and down in the dumps because of my tablets I'm taking. Wanting to take off somewhere hot. Waiting for something good to happen in my life.

April 2009
Visited Heather in Bournemouth at her parents for a long weekend. Had a super time, especially in my hire car! Spent lots and lots of money, talking £600+ all on my credit card... Great. Balances getting higher and higher but don't care because I'm feeling so under the weather.

May 2009
6th May had my operation, at last. Best thing I did. Was so ill afterwards though and in agony for 2 weeks afterwards due to a nasty infection. Dad later told me he'd never seen me looking so ill before and thought I was going to die!!!! Thanks Dad, can always count on you.

x1 of my 3 incisions :-(

Travelled to Corfu for a week, in great pain! Not sure how I managed it 10 days after op. Bit stupid of me but was all booked before got op date through. Looked like a huge elephant, or at least 5 months pregnant. Couldn't drink alcohol until the last day due to tablets, but think the holiday helped me recover - apart from my 2 panic attacks when I saw 2 accidents :-(

In Corfu - May 2009

June 2009
Beginning of June, auditioned for Dating in the Dark! Unfortunately, I didn't get through. After seeing the programme, I'm glad I didn't!
Met Craig. Thought he was the best thing since sliced bread. Spent most of my evenings and weekends with him in June (and July). Cinema, eating out, cooking for each other, movies curled up on the sofa, complete laughs. Thought life was really turning round. Isn't it amazing how ONE person can make you feel this happy? Why can't you make yourself feel this happy? He was very caught up on his ex still though so didn't believe it would last.
Weight started to drop off May/June time, starting to loose 1/2lbs a week, a bit more per week to start with. Feeling so much happier with life.

July 2009
Still doing crazy job searching. Desperate to try and find something.
Weekend away to Skegness ended in disaster! Brother being a total arse and needs to grow up, he's 15 now. Not 5.
Still continued to see Craig 3-4 times a week, can't stay away from him - this is good :-) Totally happy and content.
My lovely friend Ali found out she was pregnant again with her 2nd :-) Went to boots with her to get a test.

August 2009
Moved into my new house, my daddy's house which me and Carlie rent from him. Really love it here, feels like home. Has done from day one. So glad I moved here.

Took another visit down to Bournemouth for a long weekend, weekend after Craig said he can't see me any more because his ex is pregnant (nothing happened between them while we were together). Gutted. Complete kick in the teeth when life could have been so good. Spent my days at work crying to Fran. I really thought he was the one. I'd never felt like this about someone before. I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him. Bournemouth was fab, and Heather looked after me so much. Didn't cry once and felt so proud of myself.

Same day I went to Bournemouth I went for an interview and got offered a new job at the NHS, fantastic! And £2k payrise, wooooo to me :-) Made my weekend and life seem so much better.

Everyone at my old job, including me were told we were being made redundant. So glad I'd just been offered another job, how crazy!!

My friend Amy gave birth to a gorgeous little girl, Mae Cale.

September 2009
Started my dress making course. Very scared and nervous about going along because of all these other women there!! Not like me at all to be nervous, I'm usually quite outgoing and confident.
September was spent doing NOTHING in my old job, waiting to leave. Nothing exciting really happens.

Just one of those boring, nothing really happening months. Especially after a crazy pack August. Glad that things have calmed down.

October 2009
Tenants told me they were moving out 15th November :-( Need to find a new tenant quickly. Completely in a panic, not sure what to do or who to turn to. Just cried to my parents! Thinking maybe have to hand keys back to mortgage provider. My poor little house. Would fuck my ex over though if I did that.

Car broke down and cost £300 - more money to pay out. So upset.
Started my new job on 5th October, best thing I ever did :-) Lovely people, lovely work, lovely office with sash window & huge desk.

Desk looking bare on 1st day!

My fab sash window at work

November 2009
New tenant moved in and seems really nice.
New job going well, things looking up and getting back on track. Really happy and content with life, and not because anyone else is putting this smile on my face.
Spent a lot of time seeing friends and family. Especially Sam, Fran & Ali. Times are good. Really looking forward to Christmas for once. Life is really, really good. Not felt this happy for a long time.
In total I've now lost just under 2.5 stone. Life really is good isn't it?!

December 2009
Went to London for a long weekend to see my aunt & uncle. Heather came up to stay with her sister too and we spent the whole day shopping, eating and drinking wine. Had a lovely time and great to see her again. She tells me one day she hopes I find my own Flo :-) Nicest thing anyone's said to me in a long time, really touched me and will never forget. Met my cousins newest addition to the family Amiya Brewer - my nan would be so proud :-)

Day before Christmas eve, things were going well, looking forward to Christmas and 10 days off from work. Other work offices got broken into :-(

Ate a dodgy KFC which made me really ill :-( Craig texted me in the evening wishing my happy Christmas, god. Feelings came rushing back to me quicker than you could imagine. I felt like I was falling in love with him all over again. In the back of my mind, I knew it wouldn't work out, he wasn't ready - not after 4 months. Christmas was horrible, constant checking of phone, waiting for him to say he can't meet me on 29th. Met him on 29th, still thought he was amazing, completely in awe of him. (2010 He later realises this but doesn't think he can give me back what I want and that I deserve a good man, and he's not that man. Hoping maybe one day he'll come back, 3rd time lucky. After long words with him I told him he needed to sort his life out. He's almost 30, not 18 anymore. He's going to become a very lonely old man. He took my words on board and I threatened to beat him with a stick if he dares texts me again - unless it's because he's decided he wants a relationship and for me and him to become something serious. I'm not getting messed about with this yes, no, yes, no, I don't know lark.)
Can't wait for the New Year to arrive, feel my life's been turned upside down again just when things were great and I was feeling so happy :-(

Things for 2010 are looking up. Glad to be back at work. Going to start to train soon for a 1/2 marathon. Feeling a lot better and back on track. Heading up again.

Hope you enjoyed reading :-)

I will insert photos tomorrow, but for now, I'm exhausted and off to bed.

Salicylic Acid

2010-01-07T20:05:00.002Z

I brought some of this Salicylic Acid from eBay, didn't really expect a lot from it to be honest. It only cost around £12 along with p&p.

I brought a set which included 10%, 15% and 20%, which came with the neutralising gel and cotton wool pads to apply the acid. The idea is, you start with the first strength (lowest) apply for 1 minute, use the neutraliser for 2 mins, rinse, following week apply for 2 mins, use the neutraliser for 2 mins, rinse. You do this for 6 weeks leaving the acid on for no longer than 7 mins at any one time. Then you have a break for 3 weeks and then start again on the 15% strength.

I have to say, I started off, then got a bit fed up and forgot which week I was on. So I decided to get a cheap facial moisturiser and mix the acid in with it! This actually worked really well but did dry my skin out more which would be expected.

Since using the acid, my skin does look a lot healthier and smoother, my acne scars have been reduced by quite a fair bit, especially on my left cheek - hardly any there now. It's also helped to minimise any future spots from erupting. Any spots I do get are gone within a day or 2.

I also get a few spots on my back and again, it's helped really well but just use it neat & leave it on as my back can take quite a lot and is used to harsh spot creams and retin-A.

Anyway, when I run out, I'll definitely be purchasing some more as I think over a course of a few months, it'll really improve the condition of my acne scars and give me a more radiant complexion.

If anyone wants to have a look at her shop, you can view it here. There's nothing in stock at the moment though due to weather conditions and lack of stock. The lady who owns the store is very helpful and provides you with so much information. I was unsure as to whether to go for the salicylic or glycolic acid, but apparently if you have oily or oilier skin, the salicylic acid works better as can break through oil but glycolic acid can't.

Let me know if you try any of her products out :-)

Laura xx

New HG product

2009-12-23T12:31:00.002Z

It's been so, so, so, so long. Too long actually.

I've just been so crazy. You know what it's like with Christmas?

I haven't even had chance to log into my google reader and I have over 1000+ items.... Grrr!!! Will have to sit down after Christmas and have a good read.

Anyway, just wanted to update you with my new amazing HG product - Estee Lauder Double Wear.

To be honest, I had one of those bad skin days, well, maybe I was having a bad skin month! So I decided, on my shopping trip to London, I trek over to Boots at Liverpool Street Station and buy Estee Lauder Double Wear.

First of all when I tried it, I was amazed. I expected it to be like concrete, proper heavy and thick - but it's not at all. It feels no heavier on my skin than any other foundation, but covers well and guess what - IT LASTS ALL DAY and night!!! WOW!!! My skins a bit strange, it's dry, but then gets shiny on my forehead, expecially with my fringe, so end up with stripes across it where my fringe brushes against my head. Not a good look.

With Double Wear, I can itch my face, rub my eyes, poke my face and it doesn't budge! But it's easily removed with my usual cleanser, toner routine at night.

WOW! I'm in love!

For £24, it's well worth the money.

My only tip to you is to ensure they sell you the right colour. First of all, he gave me the 2nd shade I think as he said the 1st one was too light (but I am pale though?! It's Winter, I don't fake tan in Winter coz I go au naturelle). Anyway, it was awful, looked like Cafe Latte colour, and i'm very, very pale so was not happy. I took it back and luckly they swapped it. The guy that originally served me though said if I didn't like it etc it was Estee Lauders policy to exchange it, even without a receipt. Phew!

Anyway, back to work for me now... Break up tomorrow at lunch.

Will try blog a bit more over Christmas especially about my salycilic acid peel thing I brought off eBay - fantastic stuff!!

Merry Christmas to you all, enjoy your break.

Laura xx

Children in need Boots sale

2009-11-20T17:58:00.002Z

Wahooo!! I went along to the Boots Evaluation Suite sale today (although there was hardly anything left when I got there).

I spent £10 and brought 5 bags of things.

They ranged from the Sleep Therapy Bubble Bath x1, Brunette Shampoo x1 & Conditioner x2 (will give as a present - cheap skate!), Eye creams x5, Deep conditioning Conditioner x6, No7 cleanser (minis 30ml x 4) & Moisture Mask (x3) umm... Botanics Facewash x1, Once Sun Cream x3, Gradual Facial Tanner x2, Aftersun Facial x1 & a few more bits and bobs, for only £10!! WOW!!

Can't wait till they have the next sale - I'll be there on the door this time queueing up.

I'm going to put bits into goodie bags for friends & family for Christmas as can't really afford too much this Christmas, so these will be ideal.

Going to have my hair cut & coloured at Aveda. Can't wait to get it bloody cut, need a good 1.5 inches going, it's just had a major growth spurt & looks awful. Can't wait, not had my hair cut in a salon for about 5 years because my friend usually cuts it, but she seems to have lost her mojo :-( They're doing a special offer for 1st cuts, £33 for cut & blowdry with free t-zone of highlights! Fab! You can upgrade to half or full head also if you want. Not sure whether to upgrade to half a head - think it'll be £49 instead. Still pretty decent for half a head, but can't say I'd pay full price!

Hope you all have fab plans for the weekend.

Laura x

Rosehip Oil

2009-11-13T18:26:00.002Z

At last, my rosehip oil has arrived from Amazon. Looks like umm... urine... And doesn't really smell too nice either. Great!!

No idea what it'll do to my skin or how it'll react - i'll probably end up in loads of spots tomorrow. I'm going to start using it tonight, so will hopefully manage (I know what I'm like) to update on the usage.

Skin went a bit blerghh again, only over last few days, but have a few of those annoying spots developing under my skin on my cheeks. Think it's because i've been using moisturiser every morning & every night (and really slapping it on!) Easy now!

My Oxy facewash came too, which is mens, but after testing 2 small 30ml samples, I LOVE it!!! My skin felt amazingly clean and refreshed afterwards. And my spots looked better too I think after a week. Will also blog about this. I have some spare time this weekend (I think) so will try and get some posts together :-)

Enjoy your Friday night

Laura xx

1p M&S Sale

2009-11-11T18:19:00.002Z

On Friday M&S have a limited number of items for 1p to celebrate their 125th Christmas. As I'm aware, these range from socks, card games, children's puzzles, handkerchiefs, money boxes, tea-towels, mugs, notebooks, ties, knickers, key-rings, Christmas chocolates and Yule logs

To check out where your nearest participating store is visit the M&S website here.

They also have from 11th-14th November, a special 1p delivery. Pretty good deal if you're planning on purchasing something.

Bits & bobs

2009-11-07T16:11:00.001Z

I took the grey trousers, below back to next because the seem all split open! Great... got money refunded and went to boots instead to buy some essentials.

3 x masterpiece max mascaras. On 3 for 2 so worked out around £6.60 each. This is my HG mascara. I've not found another that I prefer more. Even the expensive £20+ ones have been nothing in comparison to this.

No7 soft and smoothed toner. Have used this before, just ran out. The way my skin is at the moment, I need to be careful what I use. Worked out at £2.50 because I used my no7 voucher!

I also got some Garnier Hydralock moisturiser. Not sure what its going to be like, n going off my dove one because its too rich at the min n brought me out in loads of spots on the tops of my arms. This Garnier one was around £1.70, on a half.price deal.

Lastly, I couldn't be bothered to drive to wilkos to get my super cheap but super amazing face wipes, think you get 2 packs for £1!!! So I picked up a pack of Botanics, which were £1.98. Not sure if my skin will like them, but they say things like 'gently' and 'calms' so fingers crossed!

Got first lot of my amazon order today that I ordered with my £20 gift voucher which I got from one of my survey sites. This morning was 2 x carmex lipbalms! Bit more expensive that usual because of p&p, but got them free anyway. My fab HG lipbalm.

Hope you're all having a fab weekend.

Laura xx

MAC's Holiday Collection - Launched in UK

2009-11-05T18:20:00.002Z

Today, MAC's holiday collection was launched and I love, love, love it!!

As per my previous post, I most certainly think I'll be buying a few bits when I head to London in December... Although if things don't speed up with my house, and some new tenants come along very, very quickly, I may well not be going to London because my spending money will have to pay my mortgage :'-( I'm really, really stressed out at the moment with things. Keeping my fingers crossed that someone will come along shortly. I have 2 weeks... 2 measly weeks that are flying by as quick as a concord (couldn't think of a saying!!) But, I'm sure everything will be okay.

Laura x

Update!

2009-11-01T16:21:00.000Z

Okay, so pay day has arrived and I've brought a few things even though I'm supposed to be saving and not spending ready for my trip to London on 11th of December.

Anyway, I've brought:

A pair of trousers from Next. Bargain price if £20!! Amazing! These are for our conference/anniversary lunch at work tomorrow.

Gorgeous cardigan from Next which has amazing hook and eyes to do it up!! So soft and amazing. Only £22, again, not bad from next.

A jewelry set from Next, bracelet and necklace £10. It's silvery, pinks and lime green. Really nice and will go well with my grey trousers. Going to wear them tomorrow with a lovely creamy cotton shirt from topshop.

Lastly, I think?! I brought a longish green jumper from Sainsburys. I could resist it as stocking up on knitwear at the moment ready for the cold winter months, and at £12 I couldn't say no! Wanted the dark blue n mustard one, but they only had size 16 plus :-( would have been okay a year ago!

Oh, I also got a long, 3/4 length sleved top from Asda for £6 to wear with black leggings for Halloween last night! Wore it with a red cape, devil horns, a devils tail and red leg warmers that I picked up from.Claire's accessories last year!

Still saving for London. Trying so hard not to spend, but couldn't resist... Trying my best to do lots and lots of surveys to rake in a few more pennies. £30 cheque received the other day to add to funds and £20 cheque should be on its way soon!

Anyway, I'm off for a nap now. Feeling exhausted.

Laura xx

Holiday Gift Swap

2009-10-23T20:05:00.002+01:00

From reading a post at 'For the Easily Distracted', I found that over at 'A Girl and Her Blog', they're having a Holiday Gift Swap!! What a fab idea. I've put my name down to join.

You can join too by clicking the image below :-)

Boots

2009-10-22T20:16:00.002+01:00

God, I'm so annoyed with my friend of a friend of a friend. It's only 25% off for staff at boots.

They do however for a week, I believe, have up to 50% off on fine fragrances. But very much doubt my lovely Chanel or Jean Paul Gautier will be half price!!

I will remember next time that if its too good to be true, it usually is.

Laura xx

Heard down the grapevine

2009-10-19T16:20:00.001+01:00

Hi all,

Just wanted to quickly let you know that down the grapevine I've heard that boots are having a 25% off sale on Wednesday, Thursday & Friday. Keep your ears and eyes peeled!

Laura x

MAC Holiday Collection

2009-10-17T23:30:00.002+01:00

The MAC Holiday Collection has been released in the US now and looks gorgeous. Check it out here.

Can't wait till it's released in the UK. I really want the Mineralized Blush in Conjour Up and the Hocus Focus Colourful Face Kit.

Sorry I've not blogged a lot recently, I've not been feeling great & not sure if it's my endo or something else. Someone mentioned I could have a thyroid problem :-( So need to book myself in at the Drs, I'm just feeling so tired, run down, constantly cold, even more ditzy than normal & just feeling nervous & on edge all the time. Hmm... Not good.

Anyway, it's pay day a week on Monday and I have a few bits I want to buy that I should be able to blog about. Plus I've been using my Body Shop Carrot Face Cream for a few weeks now, and it's working really well, so I'll review that in a bit more detail.

Hope you're all having a fab weekend.

Laura xx

East Midlands Food & Drink Festival

2009-10-10T20:35:00.003+01:00

Last Sunday I went to the East Midlands Food & Drink Festival. It was £6 each to get in, or £5 if you pre-booked. And, it was fab. First year I'd been. Brought a few yummy bits and ate some amazing food while I was there. My buffalo burger was unusual, but nice. I did want a venison burger but they'd ran out. And I also very much enjoyed Welsh Cakes - must find a recipe for them, tasted VERY good when warm. They had sooo many cheeses, chillied nuts, chocolate, the most amazing cup cakes, cheese cake, and about every other cake, wines, beers, ciders, meats, fish etc.

Here are a few goodies I brought:

Yummy!!! Samosas x 3 £1.50, Raspberry White Chocolate £1.60, Red Leicester infused with chills & peppers £3.33 (3 for £10) and a free 'Eat Well Waste Less' book.

Close up on the Raspberry White Chocolate

The amazing cheese, loving it. Very spicy but gorgeous.

Leaving presents from work

2009-10-05T21:59:00.001+01:00

Gorgeous bracelet (that I can't stop wearing!) from my lovely friend Ali, flowers freshly delivered, chocolate & wine :-D

Body shop goodies

2009-10-05T21:54:00.002+01:00

A more in depth look at these will come, but for now its just a quick few photo updates of the last 4-5 days as blogging from my lovely phone.

What the postman brought me!

2009-10-01T09:39:00.003+01:00

3 Ebay Bargains!! Wooo :-) Should have more arriving soon.

Topshop Dress - £1.99

Topshop Top - £1.04

Topshop White Skinny Jean (a bit too tight but wanting to loose another stone anyway) - £1.24

Look what the postman brought me!

2009-09-30T12:46:00.002+01:00

I got some freebies from 3M/Post-it :-D Was very excited when I opened the packet as forgot all about the survey I did for them!! I got a pack of 4 post it notes (super sticky ones) and a pack of durable filing tabs which I'm sure will come in handy in my new job.

My bottle of Remix also came, wahhooo!! So have got this on today and forgot how much I love the smell of it.

Off to Nandos for lunch shortly. It's Katie's last day :-(

LUSH £10 fresher packs!!!

2009-09-30T09:09:00.002+01:00

Woooo! I saw this last night. Lush are offering amazing freshers packs (and for none freshers!) for an amazing £10. The rrp of the products is around £18-£22 I believe.

There are 3 boxes.

The De-Stresser - contains Sultana of Soap and/or?? Sea Vegetable soap, Seanik shampoo bar, Sugar Scrub, Oatifix face mask, Vitamin C toner tab or a Vitamin E toner tab, Celestial moisturiser.

The Morning After the Night Before - contains Ice Blue or Bohemian soap, Squeaky Green shampoo bar, Sugar Scrub, The Sacred Truth fresh face mask, a Vitamin C toner tab or a Vitamin E toner tab, Skin Drink moisturiser.

The Big Night Out - contains Sexy Peel and/or?? Miranda soap, Sugar Scrub, Ultimate Shine shampoo, Brazened Honey face mask, Vitamin C toner tab or a Vitamin E toner tab, Vanishing Cream moisturiser.

I want 'The Big Night Out' as I think all the products in there sound fab, even if I don't really have any big nights out anymore because of money, friends being pregnant, married or tied down, or because I hate drinking alcohol now as it sets off my endo.

I believe it's going to be throughout October that this will be running. I'm going to grab mine on um... Well, I might have to order it online as have a busy weekend. Or see if one of my lovely friends can pick one up for me :-)

Just under 3 days to go *HUGEEEE smiles*

Laura xx

Not impressed with Bourjois Foundation

2009-09-29T20:42:00.004+01:00

Okay, this may be a negative post... So I'll start off by saying what I do like in a foundation so it won't make it sound like a terrible one... Because actually, it's not all that bad!

I like a good coverage. I have pretty bad, scarred skin from Acne. (Maybe one day I'll be brave enough to post a photo as people don't actually believe me that my skin is so bad...) I like my foundation to be highly pigmented, a medium texture - not too thick you need your trowel & not too thin you need to use half a bottle! I also like buildable coverage, start off with a little & add, add, add!

This foundation is everything but the above... It's not necessarily a bad foundation, it just isn't what I look for. It's very thin, not very pigmented and doesn't build up very well, nor last well after a day at work. It does however match my skin very well! I'm a MAC NC20, and this is number 31.

It would suit someone better who didn't want a lot of coverage, that just wanted something to slightly even out their skin and give them a boost. When used with a fair whack of concealer & a whole lot of pumps of foundation, it works okay. I will continue to use it till the end, because money's tight at the moment and I hate to throw anything away. Plus, I don't have anyone to pass it onto as most of my friends are darker skinned than me - hence my friend who's a MAC NW30 giving it to me in the first place :-)

If you want a light coverage to boost your skin, give this a goes. If not, stick to something a bit more industrial.

Hope you're all enjoying the week so far. I have 3 days left now in my job. Start my new one on Monday!! Wahoooo!! Keep chasing my body shop rep/friend up for my order - I want to blog about it! xx

Mini Primark Spree

2009-09-27T12:55:00.003+01:00

I got paid on Friday - wahooo! So after my dress making course yesterday I headed into town to visit Primark. I was hoping to pick up some new work tops, some underwear & some black and dark blue skinny jeans. The skinny jeans in a size 14 were too big, yet I couldn't get into a 12 - even though I tried on a size 12 in Bournemouth and they fit fine?! Maybe they've slightly changed their style. I've lost another 3lbs since Bournemouth so it isn't a weight issue.

Anyway, this is what I picked up (no work tops either - damn you Primark).

Necklace - £2 and bracelet - also £2. The necklace replaces one almost identical from Wallis (which cost 6 times as much!!!) which snapped :-( I still have all the pieces at work in a little box but have yet to pick up some more leather stuff to re-thread the beads.

I went to my friends Body Shop party on Saturday night too and picked up a gorgeous pallet which I kinda only brought because of the blusher! And the charity hand cream. Should arrive next week so will post pics :-D

Can't say anything else exciting has happened really. Oh, I won a gorgeous Oasis Silk dress from Ebay for £8 and a lovely blue and white topshop top for £1.20. I love ebay when I find bargains!

Laura xx

The Body Shop 80's Products

2009-09-25T12:06:00.002+01:00

For this week only, ending today I'm afraid at midnight, The Body Shop have re-launched around 10 products that they discontinued previously. And guess how much they cost, an amazingly cheap £3.99!!!

From the range, & what I recall, they have a Carrot Face Cream, Cucumber Cleanser & Toner, Banana Shampoo & Conditioner, another menthol type Shampoo & a range of shower gels.

I have ordered myself 2 of the Carrot Face Creams which are 50ml pots, other face creams at The Body Shop are around £8.80. And one of the Cucumber Cleansers which I believe would cost around £6ish.

They're only available until midnight tonight though, and can only be ordered through your Body Shop consultant.

Will post a photo when I received them :-)

Giorgio Armani - Remix

2009-09-25T09:21:00.005+01:00

Giorgio Armani - Remix is one of my favourite perfumes, along with my huge Chanel collection (which seems to have all almost run out at the same time, booo).

I've managed to come across this website - Cheap Smells where I can pick up a huge 100ml bottle of the Eau de Parfum for £24.85 which includes delivery. WOW!!! The RRP is about £47.00 so saving over £20! I'm soo glad I didn't just go to Boots and pick this up.

Anyway, I'm happy :-) (apart from my cold and feeling under the weather).

1. It's Friday

2. I have 1 week left in my rubbish, horrible old job

3. I start my dress making course tomorrow

4. I'm seeing my friend's daughter Fraya tonight

5. I should be off out to the pub at lunch to meet my friend

6. I'm off to a body shop party tomorrow night

7. I get my tattoo done on Monday woooohoooo!!

Why are you happy?

Laura xx

Amie Spring Clean Clay Mask - Another under £5 bargain!!

2009-09-24T15:54:00.005+01:00

This is my all time, favourite face mask ever! I had a couple of free samples sent to me through the post and I'm hooked.

I've always had pretty rubbish, grumpy, skin. I have to be careful what I use on it because it brings me out in spots. Especially face creams which are too rich.

Anyway, when my skins looking horrible, red & grumpy (I like that word!) I use this face mask and it just works wonders. My skin looks so much healthier, smoother, brighter - it looks like it's put the life back into it! It kind of tingles upon rinsing off, but a clean, fresh tingling, not a painful tingling. It almost feels as if my skin is being renewed and all the dirt and grime is being washed away. Any big, red spots are minimised and look less angry. It works very well if you have a big night out planned, as your skin looks managable afterwards. Plus, it won't break the bank as it's under £5.

It can be purchased at Boots, Superdrug & at Naturally Fabulous. I'm still waiting to get into town to check in my local Boots have started stocking the face mask yet. They've always stocked the other products in the range, but not the face mask. Will let you know on Sunday!

Boots

2009-09-23T10:26:00.003+01:00

Boots have a new interative, online magazine which can be viewed here. It's full of great, useful information about health and beauty products and comes complete with interaction.

I particularly like the foundation guide. You select how your skin usually feels, how it looks and what sort of finish you like. Based on your results, it recommends you products and gives you a shopping list to print off and take into store with you!!

Skin

2009-09-21T11:50:00.003+01:00

I woke up this morning to horrible, blotchy, red, spotty, angry skin :-( And I am very upset and feeling under the weather.

I used a Boots No7 Purifying Sauna Mask yesterday, which costs a huge £9.75, which I think has erupted my skin... Boooo... I am not a happy girl. And it's going in the bin (or rather getting passed on to one of my friends).

Obviously it works different on different people's skins - but on mine it didn't do justice.

I will not be re-purchasing this.

Hope my Minocycline kick in and get rid of these new eruptions very soon. My skin is already badly scared on my face, I don't want any more :-(

My TOP 3 Bargain Body Lotions :-)

2009-09-20T14:31:00.007+01:00

These are my 3 all time favourite body lotions which are all priced under £5!! And all work very, very well. I've always suffered from dry skin on my body, and if I don't use a body lotion when I come out of the shower each morning, my skin feels taught, dry and uncomfortable.

Starting with the Vaseline Cocoa Butter, Vitalizing Gel Body Oil. Available from most supermarkets & boots - half price at Tesco at the moment for £2.44 and currently £3 at Asda. It's very intensive, but not greasy like some moisturisers. I love that it leaves your skin with a lovely sheen and gives me a glow. Unlike other Oils I've tried though, it doesn't leave any residue on your clothes and can dress almost immediately after applying.

Lacura Body Lotion. Personally, I used the one from Dry Skin. Priced at £1.39 (WOW!!!) from Aldi. The best, cheapest, all round moisturiser I have ever used. The one for dry skin is quite thick and luxurious - not how you would imagine a cheap product. I thought it would be thin and runny. It takes a while to rub and sink into your skin because of the consistency, but for the price, I really can't complain. It also smells amazing, again, not how you would imagine a £1.39 moisturiser to smell. The whole Lacura range is amazing. Especially their facial moisturisers which I will review soon.

Lastly, the Dove Intensive Lotion. I use this when my skin is really, really dry, otherwise I feel it's a bit too intensive and leaves a slight residue on my skin. It works wonders on my legs which are that dry the skin actually flakes on them!! Disgusting I know. I also love taking it on holiday with me and use it instead of an aftersun. When I went to Corfu in May, it was very, very hot - usually August temperatures. I used this after a day in the sun and didn't peel at all. My skin stayed looking lovely and healthy. I always ensure I buy this when it's on offer and stock up. It's around £3.70 at Tesco and £3.69 at Asda - neither of which is on offer but still very well priced.

When I have a bit more cash, or when it's on offer after Christmas in a set, I'll buy the Origins Ginger Souffle Body Cream.

I feel in texture, this is quite a light lotion but moisturises well. It feels so luxurious on my skin, which is probably because it's so expensive in comparison to the other body lotions I use! It retails at £21 for a 200g tub. I just looooovvvee the smell of this. I save it for those special occasions, or when I'm going to hit the town. I use it alongside the shower gel, and a roll on perfume that I got in a set. Definitely one to use when I want to pamper myself. I'm afraid my funds don't run to paying £21 for an ever day body lotion what with all my bills, mortgage and rent :-(

Let me know if you have any bargain body lotions I should try.

Laura xx

Bourjois Foundation

2009-09-20T14:20:00.004+01:00

My lovely friend gave me a Bourjois foundation on Friday because it's too light for her. She's only ever used it once! I was very pleased. I've tested it a little along my jaw (to check it blended in), but have yet to actually try it. Really looking forward to trying it as I haven't used a Bourjois foundation before and am a big fan of their other products.

Hopefully it'll be nice. I'll blog and let you know :-)

Enjoying the sun this weekend. Off to mow the lawn now!!

Clinique Clarifying Lotion

2009-09-18T14:43:00.002+01:00

My skin's been a bit grumpy recently, so decided to pull out my half bottle of Clinique Clarifying Lotion that I haven't used for a while.

I decided to do a test. I know it usually gets rid of quite a lot of excess makeup that my cleanser can't. Plus, I was being lazy last night and wanted to see how much dirt and makeup was left on my face when I was having a lazy night!! I swiped the cotton pad over my face and this is what I was left with:

YUCK!!! How digusting is that?!

Now, with regards to the Clarifying Lotion, I've read and heard mixed reviews. Some people swear by it, and others think it ruins their skin because of the high levels of alcohol it contains.

Personally, looking at the above evidence, I think it most certainly does something. Whether that something is good for your skin or not, I'm undecided. I'm going to continue using the rest of the bottle and then will give you an up date as the whether my skin looks and feels any better, the same, or hopefully not - worse.

Happy Friday to you all :-) And anyone who's reading - thank you!!

Laura x

Bourjois Nail Polish

2009-09-17T20:04:00.001+01:00

I am LOVING the Bourjois 1 Second Nail Varnishes. They are the bees knees! I have 5 of the colours now and planning on purchasing more. The latest colour I brought was a dark slate grey, quite dark, plain, not at all sparkly. I also brought the Rimmel Top Coat and a navy blue Rimmel polish as they were on 3 for 2 at Boots and had a £10 gift voucher from some market research I'd done.

Painted them on Thursday so will see how it lasts! Two coats of the Bourjois is plenty, and it dries ultra quick which is always something I look for in a varnish. I can't be doing with this stuff that takes yonks to dry and you end up smudging it! And I also can't be doing with that stuff that dries too quickly while you're painting it on your nails & you end up with the brush marks all over your nails - not a good look.

Anyhow, this is how it looked on Thursday.

Bit of a blurred pic, don't think I could hold my mobile still!! My nails are not the best or longest, but I'm working on it for sure. Using my cuticle oil regularly and trimming them back to keep them looking fine and dandy! Need to start using my hardener again and look at buying a base coat, maybe from OPI unless I find any good recommendations otherwise.

Here's the bottle of nail varnish:

Can't wait to try some more colours from the range! They're all gorgeous.

UPDATE

After 4 days it started to chip a little, but think if I used a base and top coat it would last longer. I took it off after a week as it had really started to come away around the edges. But overall, it lasted as long as any premium brand I had tried, so for the money - it was very good!

Clairvoyant

2009-09-15T08:40:00.002+01:00

I wasn't going to blog about the clairvoyant because my blog will generally be all beauty, but I have to say I was gobsmacked about what she said and how accurate she was.

I've thought about it long and hard as to whether she could have picked things up from my body language and reactions, which I do believe some of it could be done like this. But then other things she told me, there would be no way she could have guessed.

She perfectly described my dad, whom I'm very close to, she told me about a guy I used to date and told me he said his head was messed up and that all he did was talk about his ex and the past - I couldn't have described him better myself! She got my personality down to a tee, knew that id been applying for jobs and been or going to an interview. She told me that id been online on dating websites and gave me the strength and courage to delete my account, because believe me, its become a part of my life really. As sad as that seems.

So, yes! I feel so much happier and confident now about the future - even if it was a load of rubbish!

You can visit her website here - Linda Lancashire.

Laura x

Clothes Show Live

2009-09-14T21:50:00.002+01:00

Carlie and myself decided tonight we're going to book our tickets to the Clothes Show Live on payday (week on Friday). Wooop wooooop! Neither of us have ever been before so very much looking forward to it.

Looked at train prices though, £24 each!!!!!! And decided it was cheaper if one of us drive. I thought getting trains and that was supposed to be the option now a days? To cut down on green house gases or carbon emissions - what ever they're called... Obviously not, seeing as it's cheaper to take the car.

Anyhow, have so much to look forward to over the next few months! Hopefully things will start going right for me for once :-)

Hope everyone's Mondays haven't been too long and boring.

Laura x

Lush's Catastrophe Cosmetic

2009-09-13T15:51:00.002+01:00

Do not look at the crazy wispy bits of hair!! Obviously this was just before I was going to jump in the shower! :-D

Lush says 'when disaster looms, Catastrophe Cosmetic calms and cleanses the skin. Blueberries rich in beneficial anti-oxidants and full of vitamins and minerals reduce inflammation and have an antiseptic effect. Soothing chamomile, Irish moss and almond oil with the gentle cleansing of calamine save the day.'

Sounds pretty good? I've managed to get about 6-7 applications out of the tub which I don't think is bad for the money, but can't really say id buy again. It did make my skin feel less irritated and helped calm those cystic spots (only slightly), but I wouldn't say I noticed a real big difference, unlike previous masks I've used.

I'd rate this product 3/5.

Might try another mask from Lush next time to see if I feel I get better results.

Dry Shampoo

2009-09-13T14:02:00.006+01:00

I love this stuff!! Wouldn’t be without it. I try not to wash my hair everyday, because I’ve been told it’s bad to because you are washing away all the natural oils which help to moisturise your locks and keep them in good condition, but if I don’t my hair looks lank and greasy.

In the morning, I give my roots a quick blast with my personal preferred preference, the Original Batiste Dry Shampoo, brush through and I’m all ready to go. Any excess oil on my scalp just disappears and my hair looks fresher with a lot more added volume. I get through about a can every 3 weeks, but for under £2, I class this as a bargain. I wouldn’t be without it.

My friends and I have tried more expensive dry shampoos, £5-£10 range and even £10+, but we always come back to the Basiste Dry Shampoo. It’s available to buy at most supermarkets, boots and superdrug. Supermarkets tend to be a little bit cheaper, as you can end up paying £2.10ish at boots compared to £1.90 at supermarkets - you know, every little counts ;-)

Laura x

Handbags!!

2009-09-13T10:54:00.004+01:00

I was reading my friends magazine the other day and HAD to take photos of these 3 handbags - I love them and all 3 are on my wishlist for when I start my new job :-D

(Left to right) Suede £99 from Cos, Bow Bag £37 from Littlewoods, Black Leather £113 from Kipling.

Hmm, which one though to buy first... Decisions, decisions! I love them all :-D

Laura x

Vitage vitamin c serum

2009-09-13T00:52:00.001+01:00

Oh no! I've just come to bed and used the last of my Vitage vitamin c serum :-( gutted. I got it free in one of my beauty tubes (must remember to sign up again) and don't think I can afford another bottle at £45. Even though it was pretty damn amazing and smoothed out my skin no end thanks to the hyaluronic acid and vitamin c. I'm going to search for a cheaper alternative maybe, or just something in general to smooth over my skin and help with pigmentation. I'll be so lucky! Unless I could pick a bottle up on eBay. Hmmm... now, there's an idea. I shall have a look now but skint until payday.

Night all, Laura x

MAC Studio Finish Foundation

2009-09-12T23:00:00.002+01:00

I've just come to like my Mac Studio Finish Foundation in NC 20. When I've previously used it, (as before hand I've used a rubbish foundation with not a lot of coverage and had to trowel it on!!) I also slapped it on thickly wasting half a bottle :-( When I thickly spreaded it onto my skin, I could see the brush marks, it didn't cover well and just sat on the top of my skin like a mask.

Thank goodness I didn't give up on using it as I now love the stuff. For some reason, only the other day, I decided my skin was looking healthier after being on my antibiotics for around a month now, so I'd use a bit less. It's not the easiest stuff to get out of the bottle and have to give it a bit of a shake out onto the back of my hand, I used a tiny bit on the end of my foundation brush and used a patting motion to blend it into my skin. Oh wow! I was so surprised, it looked so much better, even though I'd used less. It blended in, it looked natural and my skin glowed. If I needed a bit more coverage, once the first coat had been applied, I just used a tiny bit more in those areas and patted over the top. Ta da!! Lovely skin for once :-)

I'm so happy with it now I don't think I'm going to bother (for the time being), trying anything else. I will at least finish the bottle for sure.

Hope you're all having a good weekend. Today I've been feeling :-( after going out last night and having too much to drink - causes bad endo pain and every time I wonder why I bothered drinking, it wasn't even like I had a good night. Oh well, hopefully have a better day tomorrow and manage to actually do something productive like mowing the lawns and listing things on ebay!
Laura x

Body shop party

2009-09-09T10:08:00.000+01:00

My friend's hosting a Body Shop party on 26th September at her house along with cheese and wine... Yum!!

I can't say I've used any body shop products for a long time so was looking at a few recommendations or HG products?

I'm looking at updating some of my makeup, maybe some nice shimmery powders or eyeshadows.

Anyway, I'll update after the party with the goodies I brough.

Apparently, the body shop are also having a back to 80's week ending 25th September and having lots of old products available to buy for one week only all priced at £3.99. I'm very, very interested!!! Want to know more. As soon as I find out, I'll blog and let you know!

Laura x

Tattoo

2009-09-08T21:39:00.000+01:00

Arrgghhh, just emailed a guy I used to go to school with asking him if he'd do my tattoo for me when I get paid... Never had one before but decided after about 18months after looking at the tattoo to go ahead and get it. Only going to be very small, smaller than on the photo, prob about 1 inch by 1/2 inch, and want the top corners more rounded as they're pretty square on the photo.

Quite excited...

L'oreal roll on foundation

2009-09-08T20:39:00.000+01:00

Hi girls! Have seen advertised in a magazine today and just seen an advert on tv for the new roll on L'oreal foundation. Looks pretty 21st century to me!! Anyone tried it? I want to give it a go, but obviously have the Maxfactor second skin on my list too, plus read some raving reviews about guerlain foundations, but think I'll have to wait till I get a pay packet through for my new job to be able to afford one of those!!

I've read a couple of reviews on it and people say it's good, covers well, blends well, but you still have to blend a little with your fingers afterwards. Think I might wait until a few more people have reviewed it. Saying that though, I do love the L'oreal true match pressed powder, so if this is similar it might be good. Maybe boots or superdrug will have an offer on it soon seeing as it's a new product?

Give me a shout if you've tried it by leaving a comment.

Much love, Laura xx

Starting again

2009-09-08T19:36:00.001+01:00

Hi girls!! (and guys that are reading).

I used to blog at http://lauzc.wordpress.com/, but decided to move myself over onto blogspot.com because it's all linked to my google and most of you seem to blog on here rather than wordpress.

Anyhow, I won't ramble on for long! Hope you enjoy reading my beauty posts :-)

Laura xx