I have always felt intrigued by this influential woman and how she came to create the legendary and infamous wrap dress. However, since I started watching the series House of DVF on E!, I have become obsessed with reading her book. I am always inspired by powerful and innovative women who achieve the best they can in terms of a fulfilling life.
From what I can gather, this is the story of a girl who started from the very bottom and worked her way to the top. It is more enjoyable to actually read about a real person's success rather than searching for inspirational articles online (we've all been there).
Although this is not an actual biography, I have discovered Zoella on YouTube around three years ago, and have been a loyal follower ever since. It almost feels wrong not purchasing her book. Although I am assuming that it does have episodes relating to Zoe's life, such as the panic attacks and having a blog, the story is a fictional novel which would be an excellent read along with a cup of tea to wind down at the end of the day.
Can't believe I'm actually writing a post on my birthday (although posted two days late), especially since I have not written for a month. I have been very buried with University coursework - it's been nothing but assignments this semester. And it seems like they have our Christmas holidays all planned out as well. Anyway, enough of university blabbering - it's Christmas time! December is my favourite month of the year, and it is not just because of my birthday and Christmas, which are just one week apart. It is usually during this month that you get to meet up with people and have a proper catch up, be it for cocktails or a proper night out.
I have also been on holiday to London during the first week of December, which is where I have done most, if not all, of my Christmas shopping. It's not that Maltese people aren't festive, but the British seem to celebrate Christmas way better than here. Not mentioning Oxford Street's decorations, which are incomparable to anything here, you seem to hear Christmas carols in coffee shops, restaurants, in the street, markets... everywhere. I am actually a bit bummed that I did not get to go to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, however we were a bit tight on time. Also, on our last day it was pouring rain, and we had to leave Southbank Market and go back to our hotel. If you live in Malta, you would have a highly offbeat idea of a market.
Covent Garden is magical by itself, let alone in Christmas time. It is where we had the best meal compared to the mountainous amount of junk food we came across when stopping for lunch in the afternoon.
Considering I ended up more skint than I thought upon coming back from London, it may be while until I return to London. I am planning something a bit more relaxed for my next holiday, consisting of no shopping whatsoever. Maybe Greece?
So I haven't been the most loyal blogger these past two weeks... I apologise for that. Before I started this blog I swore I'll keep it updated and never neglect it. However, things have happened lately that barely left me any time for myself, let alone sit down and write on here.
I'm not used to doing these rambly kind of posts, but anyway. Aside from having some personal issues, I have been very busy with school. It's like our lecturers decided to conspire against us to ruin the rest of the month by giving us most of our assignments in one week. I'm not entirely complaining, at least most of them are practical and we actually get to learn something, rather than just skimming through books and including anything that seems relevant. Oh, and I've also been elected as Student Representative at the Faculty of Media & Knowledge Sciences, which is the faculty of the course which I'm following. I've finally went ahead and done it, which is something I've been contemplating over in the past year.
I have also been writing articles for a Maltese website, EVE. I sent them an article a while ago which still needs to be published - can't wait for that one! I also need to find time to write more articles. I need to learn to write in advance. The same goes for this blog. That way I'll always have something to put up, hopefully every two days at least.
I have been trying out some new products which have been helping my skin to keep up with the changing weather. In Malta we've gone from wearing t-shirts to layering on jumpers. I have been slapping on a new hydrating mask by a brand which is completely new to my skincare cabinet. It deeply nourishes my skin, however it deserves a post of its own (which will be up by tomorrow, hopefully).
My favourite month of the year is fastly approaching. December never fails to get me all excited, with my birthday and Christmas just a week apart. However, this year I'm also going on holiday, which adds to the frenzy. It also motivates me to finish up most of my assignments before the 1st of December. How that's gonna work out, I'm not entirely sure.
Where do I even begin? I've decided to do this post around 15 minutes ago, after realising how stressed I've been these past two weeks. If things were worth stressing over, I do not know. Probably not, though. I have the tendency to make a mountain out of a molehill, and it seems that I will never learn otherwise.
Anyway, since this post is about ways of coping with stress and not me rambling, let's get down to it.
1. Take deep breaths
When you are on the verge of breaking down, stop, take a deep breath and relax. Although it may sound silly, it's like a slap in the face - it gets you thinking about stuff in a rational state.
2. Cherish your loved ones
These are the people we tend to take it out on. Afterwards, I'm plunged by a guilty sensation worse than how rubbish I was initially feeling.
3. Find a hobby
If you're anticipating one of those moments, stop what you're doing and go do something which you actually like. It could either be watching YouTube videos, television, reading books or blogs, going for a walk... anything as long as it takes your mind of things. Some hobbies are less accessible than others, so I suggest finding something that you could do anytime at the comfort of your own home.
4. Make lists
Being an organised and undiagnosed OCD freak, I enjoy making lists, and ticking off my efforts once accomplished. Having things systematized puts me at ease, rather than having uncounted things to do and not knowing from where to start, let alone finish.
5. Set deadlines
After making your list, set deadlines for your to-do acts. If things are related to school or work, they will probably already have their own, but I prefer to set virtual limits for myself. This will prevent you from leaving things up to the last minute.
6. Do separate research after lessons
Okay so this is aimed for those still at school - don't just rely on your class notes. They are not enough! I have developed a habit where I find time to gather my notes and start researching and elaborating on what I wrote in class. Doing it subject by subject prevents you from getting overwhelmed with all the extra information, but it makes you feel much richer knowledge-wise.
7. Take long baths
I still need to indulge in this, but I presume it does work.
8. Take an early night
Avoid staying up late when feeling at the end of your rope. Make a cup of your favourite hot drink, whatever it is, and tuck yourself in bed. I find that hot water with honey and a slice of lemon eases me into my sleep.
9. Learn to say "NO"
There was a time when I embarked on a bountiful of to-do items, then wondering how the hell I'm gonna do everything in time. Now I'm learning to not take on more than I can chew, and if I feel that I don't want to do something, or go somewhere, I just don't. If you feel that that little something is going to send you over the cliff, just don't do it. There's nothing wrong in saying "no" sometimes.
These are most of the things I exercise when I'm under stress, or to avoid stress altogether.
Are there any other things which you find useful? Let me know! Until then, it's good to remember that 99% of the things that we worry about don't happen.
Rather than just sipping coffee and catching up with friends during University Fresher's Week, this year I attempted something different. Along with those, I got a friend of mine to accompany me with her camera, and we went on a hunt for A/W'13 trends on campus.
I don't usually take photos during Fresher's Week, but this year it was concluded otherwise. While I decided to combine A/W trends and Fresher's Week (more info later on next week), we also got our pictures taken ourselves. My friend Laura got her Nikon camera and started snapping away. As an aspiring photographer, she is seriously competent at what she does. Here are some pictures that made the cut.
Day 1
First day of Fresher's Week; with Laura & Lara (taken by Insite)
Day 2
Writing notes
Day 2: Stopping students for my article
Snapping some pictures of ourselves; with Lara
Day 4
Chatting over a cappuccino on Thursday morning
In between lectures on campus with Annabel
Day 3 is missing as there weren't any pictures taken. We only had one lecture, and were at University for only about three hours. On day 5, which is today, my only lecture got cancelled and I stayed at home to work on an article for Eve, which will be up by some time next week.
I have a feeling this photography spree is about to become a habit. Photos are possibly the only physical way to keep track of memories. In the meantime, while I'm currently contemplating which camera I should invest in, Laura... we could put your beloved Nikon to some more use.
While we all look forward to that night out, the same cannot be said for the following morning. Grogginess, starvation, sloppiness... although we cannot avoid these annoying sensations, I find the following remedies to help in curing a hangover.
1. Skin hydration
Despite having cleansed my face and applied serum upon arriving home, my skin was still begging for some a hydration boost this morning. My post-drinking skincare morning routine resembles that of the evening. After cleansing, I applied a thin layer of the Michael Todd Avocado Mango Extreme Hydration Mask and left it on for 15 minutes. My skin literally drank it up, and it felt so quenched after removing the remaining of the product with a muslin cloth. I then followed with Institut Esthederm Intensive Propolis Serum, which I received as a sample with a premium purchase from BeautyBay. I usually save this serum for days like these when my skin needs that extra boost, as I find that the propolis cleanses and deeply purifies my skin. The serum itself is very watery, hence the advice to apply it with a cotton pad. However, I use my palms to tap it gently onto my face until it sinks in, as I find that the cotton pad absorbs most of the product.
2. Water
Apart from using products, I make sure to drink water by the buckets. Dehydration from alcohol not only gives you tight and lackluster skin, but also a dry mouth, increased thirst and apathy. I sometimes like to add a slice of lemon or lime to my water as it helps to sooth my upset stomach. Anything that helps to avoid these uncomfortable sensations goes right down on my list.
3.Food
Everyone whom I spoken to about this said the same thing - after a night of drinking, the body seems to be dissatisfied with every consumption, except for junk food. This is because we crave energy-dense, fatty foods, and due to a brain chemical, galanin.
Right now I'm craving a Big Tasty, but considering my lethargy at the thought of driving to McDonalds and the absence of burgers in the freezer, I had to 'please' my stomach with this. Yes emphasis on the apostrophes, because I could still devour a Big Tasty after eating this sandwich.
Brown bread with edam cheese, tomatoes, rucola, cheeselets and basil
Despite these cravings, the best foods to cure hangovers are fruit to replace the vitamins lost, and, according to what I read somewhere, toast. Bananas are known to replace the body's lost potassium.
4. Shower
I don't know if this is a mental thing, but I immediately feel the hangover starting to wear off upon showering. Taking a shower helps to improve the circulation and opening up the pores, while being associated with relaxation. It's something I always do as soon as I wake up.
5. Paracetamol
Although I didn't take any paracetamol today, I sometimes could not resist not doing so due to a throbbing headache. Avoid taking any medication right after drinking though, as there is a high chance that it will adversely react with the alcohol in your system. If you are opposed to taking medication, massaging Tiger Balm onto your temples is a good substitute, while being completely natural.
6. Sleep
... the best remedy to cure yourself of a hangover and make time go by faster. Sleeping can help you to avoid taking any medication, while getting rid of that groggy feeling.
Do you have any more tips on how to treat a hangover? Let me know in the comments below!
Unlike abroad, college and university terms haven't commenced in Malta yet, but they're around the corner. Next Monday's Fresher's week. And am I excited... it's like I'm going into my first year at University. Except I'm going up to my third.
On campus 'working' on an assignment with Claire, from This & That
Fresher's week can be a bit overwhelming for those who are just starting, but it's actually one of the most exciting time of the term.
Socialise. Although this may seem terrifying, you're not alone. You may have your usual peer group with you, or you may be on your own. Don't lose sleep over it. Everyone's rocking in the same boat. Several students will be coming over to you from different organisations - some of them genuinely want to be your friend, others are just doing so for the sake of promoting their organisation. Apart from these people, get talking to people on your course, and avoid sitting alone in lectures. Buddy up with those whom you feel comfortable with. This helps to ooze your confidence, while encouraging you to participate in lectures.
Saying this, don't try too hard to impress others. Just don't. Also don't feel intimidated. Some people aren't worth your time. You'll make friends eventually. Joining an organisations helps, but don't get too disoriented. Focusing on lectures is more important. Most of the people who care more about the organisation end up repeating a year or two. And you don't want that. Still, make the most out of your time at university.
Creating a Facebook group for your course is another way of getting to know who's on your course. While getting to know these people better, it's a good place to share notes, ask for and receive information.
Although the first week can be a bit of a mayhem, don't take too long to settle. Start going to lectures as soon as they commence, and organise your stuff. Keep your notes updated, and if you feel you need to purchase extra notes lecturers leave at stationeries, do so. Just don't buy every book on the reading list, unless absolutely necessary. Which is rarely the case. If possible, borrow the books from the library and see the ones which are best for you. To save money, you can order the books online, or buy the photocopied versions from stationeries. A few of them are ridiculously overpriced.
Speaking about money, spend it wisely. Having an amount of money in your smart card can be overwhelming, and you may be tempted to spend it all. Don't, you'll regret it. You'll need that money to buy books, notes, and other school-related material, which will keep cropping up until the end of the term. Of course you can treat yourself to something, or two...
Use your free time wisely! Do go and have lunch with your friends. There are a couple of spots outside campus, and it's a nice way of catching up. But as the exams get closer, do start making appearances at the library. If you study better in groups, form a study group and meet up to revise together. It's good motivation.
Jealous of my cat while desperately trying to study
School is what you make it. Personally, I love going to university. I hated college, but I love it here. You'll have those moments where you are buried under your books, and you 'regret' your decision, but they will be over within minutes. You may also be having friendship or relationship issues, where everything seems to be falling apart. When you leave school, you'll realise how it helped you to become the person you are. You'll find those people who'll miss it terribly, and those who are glad to have started working.
Make the most of your school experience, and if you don't like something, there's always a way to alter it!
In between 2 of my favourite girls, while out for cocktails after an exam
Let's face it - no one likes getting up early in the morning to prepare breakfast. But personally, I feel dangerously famished upon waking up, I could eat a scabby donkey between six bread vans. Also, breakfast is one of the most important meals, as it affects your performance throughout the rest of the day.
Everything aside, these are some quick, easy breakfast ideas you could make yourself before school or work.
Porridge
The traditional breakfast, if I could say so myself. I remember my dad telling me how they used to have porridge everyday for breakfast back in Swindon. Only he didn't make any effort to not make it sound like vomit. Instead of leaving mine plain Jane, I spice it up a bit. You'll need:
3 tablespoons oat bran
Water
Cinnamon
Milk (I use almond)
Grapes (or any other fruit)
Holland & Barret Breakfast Sprinkle (mix of dried fruit and seeds) [It's not in the picture due to the unsightly state of the packaging... the result of me hurrying to have breakfast]
What I do is add the oats to a pan, along with water and cinnamon. I didn't include any exact measurements to these because I just calculate how much water to add (enough for the oats to not dry up), and with cinnamon... well I go a bit overboard. I just love the taste of cinnamon in everything, and it's good for your metabolism anyway.
While it's cooking, I remove the seeds from the grapes. Then after about 3 minutes, I pour the cooked porridge onto the grapes. If like me, you're always in a hurry, add some milk so it cools a bit. Then I sprinkle some breakfast sprinkle on top, and you're good to go! Or eat.
Banana Panckaes
For the pancakes:
1 banana
2 eggs
That's all yes. I found this recipe from Blogilates. I usually add cinnamon to mine for that extra bit of flavour.
For the topping:
Fruit (here I sliced a pear)
Holland & Barret Breakfast Sprinkle
Extras:
Peanut butter
Honey
Other fruit
Have a look at my other, more exciting appetizing pancakes here.
Overnight Oats
The crack of dawn breakfast. Perfect if you have a lecture at 8am and you need to run out of your house at 6.30am to avoid all the traffic and park your car in a decent parking space. This is what most university students here do. With a portable breakfast like this, you can never go wrong. All you need to do is prepare it the night before, and leave it in the fridge until the next morning.
3 tablespoons oat bran
200ml milk (I use almond)
3 tablespoons low fat yogurt
Fruit of your choice (I chopped peach)
Cinnamon (optional)
Mix everything in a shake container and refrigerate. Pick it up the next morning and rush out of the house. Simple.
Breakfast sorted. Never again are you going to leave the house on an empty stomach. Unless you are exceptionally sluggish that is.
What's your favourite breakfast? Do you have any other quick and effortless ideas?
Today was the first day for those going to primary and secondary school. Those who will be starting college or university still have another week in waiting. While some may be dreading next Monday, others may be looking forward to it *raises hand*.
Around two weeks ago I did a Back 2 School Wish List and you guys seemed to enjoy reading it, so for this week I'll be extending the Back 2 School series.
How many times have you searched for something in your bag and couldn't find it? We've all been there. To avoid this, I have compiled a list of the essentials which should find themselves in your bag.
Accessorize Postcard makeup bag*
I got this makeup bag last year during the Accessorize sale. I actually wanted the laptop case in this print, however they sold out before I could get my hands on one. Although it's quite big, it fits my stuff perfectly;-
I got this as a gift when I spent €50 at the Boux Avenue shop in Sliema. Since last winter, I've never been found without a hand cream in my bag. With amber, peony and rose, this hand cream has a strong floral smell to it, while helping to keep my paws soft.
This cream is targeted at very dry areas. Around a year ago I purchased it to treat my dry hands, thinking I had those of a gardener. Obviously it wasn't working because my hands weren't that dry, but I found it to work perfectly on my elbows.
Hair grips, hair ties & GHD mirror
... for obvious reasons. Just keep the ties and grips away from the person that always asks for them. There is always someone.
"IT SOOTHES. IT RELIEVES. IT MOISTURIZES." It does exactly what it says.
Moving out of my makeup bag...
AquaSan Hand Sanitiser
This anti-bacterial alcohol gel is a must-have. After getting off the bus, after sitting for an hour or so in the lecture theatre... don't even think of touching your face, or your food, before slapping this on your paws.
Compact Wet Wipes
With their peachy scent, these wipes are sure to get rid of the smell of food from your hands. No one needs to know you had tuna for lunch.
Tissues
You still find those people who ask others for this stuff. Come on!
Not the most practical size, but they do smaller versions of these. And 48 hours of lasting power? I've never encountered any sort of product that lasted that long, but it does its job for the day.
Wrigley's Orbit White Chewing Gums
I've got mine in the 'fruity' flavour. Pop one of these after lunch, or whenever you feel your breath's not at its freshest.
All Bran Chocolate Bar
I always like to keep a snack at hand. You never know when you feel like nibbling something, and you might be unable to slip in to the canteen. While the flavour range of these bars is limited, you can substitute with nuts, or anything of your choice.
Accessorize London Notebook*
It's the first time I'll be keeping a personal notebook at hand this year at university. I've been doing it lately, and found that it's best for jotting down random ideas that come to mind. I'll be having a separate notebook to write down any homework or assignments, which I will be collecting from the KSU stand next week during Fresher's.
Laptop
It's very unlikely that I attend lectures without my Macbook Pro. I use it to take down my lecture notes, as it's quicker to keep up with lecturers. Also, it comes in handy to kill time during your frees.
Pencil Case
This is not in the picture as I still need to buy it. I will be looking for a long, slim one that's easy to fit in most bags, rather than the bulky one I carried around last year.
Do you have any other essentials you would add to the list? Let me know!
Happy shopping! :)
* These haven't been restocked and I couldn't find any links.
While going through my usual routine of reading new blogs during breakfast, I came across this tag post. It seemed appropriate to do a post about autumn, and it's one of my favourite seasons along with winter.
Favourite thing about Autumn?
The changes it brings with it - weather, clothes... eveything!
Favourite drink?
Warm almond/coconut milk with honey.
Favourite scent/candle?
Cinnamon & Citrus scents.
Best lipstick?
Rimmel London Kate Moss in shade 107.
Go-to moisturiser?
Face: I prefer to use a serum in the evening, and the one I'm using at the moment is Michael Todd Hydration Boost serum. In the morning I'm using the Pai Geranium and Thistle moisturizer.
Go-to colour for the eyes?
Brown smokey eye.
Favourite music to listen to?
At the moment; Of monsters and men.
Favourite outfit to wear?
Oversized jumper, skinny dark jeans, long boots, chunky scarf and satchel.
Autumn treat?
Muffins! I'm gonna try and get into baking more this season.
Favourite place to be?
Under my blanket watching episodes on a rainy day, with a cup of tea/warm milk :)
Ever wondered what the saying "You are what you eat" means? The skin is our body's largest organ, and everything we ingest in our body is reflected through our skin. Simple as that. Most often, just because the face is free of blemishes, people assume that they are on the right track towards healthy skin. Radiant skin does not only mean zit-free, but it also refers to
plumpness
firm and even skin tone
unclogged pores
and much, much more! Whilst these can be achieved through the right use of products, it does not hurt to assist the process through the correct food choice.
Almonds
So first I have to point out that I was gobsmacked when I found out that almonds are not nuts - they are seeds! True, look it up. Almonds are a rich source of Vitamin E, which is the ultimate sun blocker. We all have been, and continue to be, bored to death hearing about the benefits of SPFs, so I won't even go there. But apparently, theright amount of Vitamin E in almonds helps against sunburn, therefore avoiding pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, and mostly importantly, skin cancer.
Almonds can be snacked on on their own, or added to yogurts, cereals or meals. A good all-rounder is almond milk, which is solely made out of almonds and water. I could never go back to cow milk after trying this.
Minerals are often left in the dark, while vitamins get all the attention. Zinc is one of those minerals acting as a 24/7 skin supplier, and pumpkin seeds are jam-packed with it. It helps in maintaining the skin's elasticity through protecting cell membranes, managing collagen, and skin renewal through ridding of dead skin cells.
Pumpkin seeds
Flax seeds & Salmon
I put these under the same category for the sole reason of being loaded with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. These essential fats protect the cell membrane, which is the cell's barrier controlling what passes through. It also aids in keeping in water. Those two litres you are supposed to be drinking daily? Yup, it's captured inside cell membranes, in turn rewarding us with plump, moist soft skin, whilst keeping wrinkles at bay.
Since flax seeds may be challenging to include in your diet, I found taking capsules* to be a satisfying alternative. Or you could buy actual flax seeds, and find ways to incorporate them in your meals!
Cooked salmon; Flax seeds; Apples with peanut butter and toasted flax seeds
Tomatoes & Watermelon
Ever had any tomatoes you were about to throw away, and made your own pasta sauce with them instead? The lycopene (which is what makes the tomatoes red) that leaks out of cooked tomatoes may just be the fix against anti-aging from UV rays - it gets rid of accumulating free radicals. Not used to cooking your own pasta sauce? You can substitute it with watermelon instead. Although I think you may be slightly screwed in winter.
Fresh watermelon; Tomato sauce; Pasta with fresh tomato sauce
Canned Tuna
Good news to those who enjoy having their lunch consisting of tuna, or those who devour tuna straight out of the can. It is a rich source of selenium, which retains elastin; a protein known for the tightness and smoothness of the skin. However, you may want to consider keeping your distance from others after consumption, or replace with brazil nuts, turkey ham or whole-wheat bread. A little more breath refreshing.
Canned tuna; Whole-wheat bread; Brazil nuts
Carrots
Apparently, carrots are not only beneficial for eagle eyes. The beta-carotene, an antioxidant that is transformed into Vitamin A, helps in clearing out breakouts through unclogging pores.
Stressful times? No worries, pass over those carrot sticks and dip. Homemade, of course.
Fresh carrots; Carrot sticks with dip; Carrot juice
Dark Chocolate
A good excuse to snack on chocolate? We're all ears. Cocoa, one of the main ingredients of dark chocolate, is imbued with flavonoids. Flavonoids reduce skin roughness, while preventing UV damage. I've heard people saying that chocolate breaks them out multiple times. This all falls on what type of chocolate are they reaching for. Not even every dark chocolate bar contains the right amount of flavonoids, as sometimes they are extracted due to their bitter taste. The solution is to seek organic dark chocolate*, which contains up to 70%, or more, cocoa.
Along with other tropical fruit, these babies are stocked up with Vitamin C. A mighty antioxidant, Vitamin C battles against free radicals, while producing collagen.
Berry smoothie; Mixed berries; Berry smoothie pie
Water
Being one of those guilty individuals that do not always drink up to two litres of water daily, I sometimes notice that my skin is dehydrated (despite being a combination) and lackluster. Not only does water ambush toxins out of the body, or delivers nutrients to every cell, but it also penetrates cell membranes, keeping them stout. As a result, the skin appears more plump and hydrated, emitting that extra glow.
Cannot stand the taste, or rather lack, of water? Add slices of lime, lemon or oranges to spice things up. No excuses.
Water with lemon slices; Glass of water; Water with orange slices
So most of you may be wondering what this post is all about... How can I be talking about any award when I've just launched my blog two days ago?
Basically, the Liebster Award is an award for bloggers who have less than 200 followers. In German, 'liebster' means 'beloved', 'kind', 'darling'... I have been nominated by NicolaandCookies & Something
I think it's such a prized way of promoting emerging bloggers in this mushrooming blogging world.
The rules of the Liebster Award are as follow:
Each nominee must link back to the person that nominated them.
Answer the 10 questions which are given to you by the nominator.
Nominate 10 other bloggers you like and who have less than 200 followers.
Create 10 questions for your nominees to answer.
Let them know that they have been nominated by going to their blog and notifying them.
My answers to Nicola's questions
What was your last purchase? Real Techniques set & individual brushes this afternoon.
What's your favourite item of clothing? My Topshop high-waisted floral shorts.
What's your favourite type of chocolate? I love all types of chocolate! But I think most fall under the 'milk' category.
Why did you start blogging? I have endless thoughts going through my mind which I think would be interesting to share. Also I'm obsessed about anything related to beauty, fashion and lifestyle.
One thing you can't live without? Phone, I think.
How many pillows do you sleep with? Three.
Do you have any phobias? From injections.
Favourite designer/brand? High street: Topshop ; High end: Can't decide without buying! But I would probably go for Marc Jacobs.
What perfume are you currently using? La Vie Est Belle by Lancome.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? America.
My answers to Shannon's (Cookies & Something) questions
What is your favourite thing about blogging? Sharing with others my thoughts and getting feedback.
If you could move to any country in the world where would you move to? London.
What's your all time favourite perfume? Lancome La Vie Est Belle.
Your favourite place to shop. Topshop.
Your favourite animal. Cat.
What song reminds you of this summer? Get Lucky by Daft Punk.
Who's your favourite artist/singer? Radiohead.
What career do you want to have when you're older? Fashion stylist.
One item that goes everywhere with you. My phone.
Who inspired you to start blogging? It all started from Zoella, but I think the main inspiration for my blog was Anna.
Having been out since this morning, I skipped my usual dinner at around 16:30 and satisfied myself with some packed lunch instead. However, upon arriving home at around 20:00 I was feeling slightly piggish. I refuse to eat a bulky meal in the evening, therefore I prepared a light snack.
Tomatoes filled with ricotta, tuna, onions and parsley
The caption says it all - all I did was remove the tomato seeds and carve the tomato in a cup-shape, then filled them with: ricotta, tuna, onions and parsley. After, I put these two babies under the grill for five minutes.
The filling depends on your preferred choice.
Please excuse my presentation skills. The taste makes up for it. Promise.
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup skimmed milk (alternative: almond or coconut milk)
1 egg, beaten
60ml vegetable oil
60ml honey
1 cup natural bran
¼ cup whole-wheat flour
¼ cup all-purpose flour
73g brown sugar
½ teaspoon grated lemon rind
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 cup blueberries (preferably fresh)
dash of cinnamon (optional)
In a bowl, stir the lemon juice into the milk - let it stand for 1 minute to sour.
Stir in the egg, oil and honey.
In a large, separate bowl add the rest of the ingredients. Pour in the milk-lemon mixture. Mix until combined.
Spoon into non-stick (or paper-lined) muffin tins.
Bake in a 375 degree temperature for 20 minutes, or until firm to touch.
