tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48472667220248696672024-03-13T13:19:57.684+00:00 Wishing On A BlondeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-85825386650410553572014-06-07T16:03:00.000+01:002014-06-07T16:04:16.348+01:00HOLIDAY DIARIES: NEW ZEALAND THE NORTH ISLAND PART TWO<span style="font-family: inherit;">As mentioned in my previous holiday post I did a fair bit of travelling by myself in New Zealand and chose to do it with <a href="http://www.kiwiexperience.com/">Kiwi Experience</a> - in the North Island I hopped on the Bay of Islands tour to visit the very top of the North Island...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I was picked up early one morning off the street (pre-arranged I wasn't just hanging around the streets waiting to be picked up!) in the middle of Auckland with a feeling of pure terror in the depths of my stomach; not only was I going on a three day tour alone but I had to get on a full bus and find somewhere to sit! I handed in my bags, was ticked off the list and climbed up the large steps to the bus - looking down the isles I noticed everyone had the same idea; sit in a seat alone if you can. So I slowly started walking down the bus and chose a seat next to a lovely girl called Alice and to my relief we became fast friends.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The journey to Paihia was about 3 hours but chatting the whole way with Alice it felt more like 1. On the way to Paihia we stopped at the Manginangina Kauri Walk to see the Kauri trees -<span style="color: #134f5c;"> "<span style="background-color: white;"><i>Kauri are among the world's mightiest trees, growing to more than 50 metres tall, with trunk girths of up to 16 metres and living for more than 2000 years." (</i></span></span></span><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>http://www.doc.govt.nz/conservation/native-plants/kauri/) </i></span><br />
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All parts of the Kauri trees were used throughout history - the wood for building and the gum for glues and fire starters however due to the immense amount of time it takes for the Kauri trees to grow they started becoming extinct and New Zealand authorities put all remaining Kauri trees under protection in 1987.<br />
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We arrived in Paihia dumped our bags in our rooms and went straight out onto the lake to go Kayaking - something I have never done before. We were taken out for about 5hours by a local guy and spent the afternoon intermittently drifting and chatting and paddling around the waters, stopping for tea after we saw this beautiful mini waterfall. It was fabulous if a little tiring! </div>
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Paihia is a very small very quiet little town so after Kayaking and the mixer BBQ the accommodation put on we returned to our rooms for an early night - we had a very early start up to Cape Reinga in the morning. </div>
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First thing the following morning we hopped back on the bus ready for a busy day of 90 mile beach, sand boarding and sight seeing and this day certainly didn't disappoint!</div>
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Starting with 90 Mile Beach - we didn't drive along the whole beach in the bus as there is a high change of the bus sinking in the wet sand but the drive that we did was great fun, sand spinning up from the wheels, waves splashing closer and closer to the bus and eventually pulling over and dipping our toes in the water.</div>
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Next stop was sand boarding - you probably can't tell from the pictures but these dunes were absolutely humongous! Climbing to the top was an achievement in itself! Once at the top the true height and steepness (is that a word?!) hit you as you were given instructions on how to go down the dunes face first. You lean on your elbows, tuck your feet in and use your knees to steer and slow down. Speeding down those dunes face first was thrilling but unnerving - awaiting at the bottom was a stretch of water and nettles, if you didn't stop in time you were sure to go in! Fear of doing this myself and going to fast meant I spent the entire ride with my knees dug firmly into the sand which resulted in splitting my favourite trousers - that's what you get for being a thrill seeker haha!</div>
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After we dusted ourselves off as best we could (we had sand in places you should never have sand) we piled back onto the bus ready for the peak of our day trip - Cape Reinga. There are literally no words to describe how stunning it was there, as we arrived the rain clouds spread and made way for the blue sky and sunshine, the pictures here can do the talking.</div>
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Below was the money shot; everyone qued up for a photo on the edge:</div>
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The lighthouse and famous sign post stating the distance from that point to popular countries.</div>
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How staggeringly beautiful is Cape Reinga? Looking back over the photos I can't quite believe I was there, seems like a dream. </div>
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The following day before we headed back to Auckland we took a quick dolphin boat trip back in Paihia with the possibility of swimming with dolphins. </div>
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Being the animal lover I am I was naturally beyond excited at potentially swimming with these immense creatures but unfortunately the weather turned once we were out there and it wasn't possible. However seeing so many beautiful dolphins swimming next to the boat<i> just about </i>made up for it (just about!). </div>
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As always with my experience of New Zealand on the return journey to Auckland we stopped on the side of the road and saw a beautiful waterfall:</div>
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And that concludes my trip to the North Island, next stop the South and the Bottom Bus; see you there!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-60293307759163155442014-05-18T10:00:00.001+01:002014-05-18T10:00:13.061+01:00HOLIDAY DIARIES: NEW ZEALAND THE NORTH ISLAND PART ONEHello loves!<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Firstly apologies for the huge delay in getting this post up, I've been incredibly busy with sorting my move to Manchester and my Mums wedding. Anyway without further ado here is part one of my holiday diaries to New Zealand!)</span></i><br />
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After a long and hungry 26 hour flight (the vegetarian options on the plane were unfortunately lacking) I arrived in the beautifully sunny New Zealand! My lovely school friend Kim and her boyfriend were nice enough to let me stay with them for part of my trip, they picked me up from the airport and brought me back to their gorgeous apartment. The majority of homes are built with wood and tin roofs with inspiration from classic villa style homes.<br />
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My first day consisted of lots of chat, laughter and food - the usual catch up scenario after one of your best friends moves away and you see her for the first time in a long time! That evening Kim and Chris treated me to dinner at Mexico an incredible little Mexican restaurant in the heart of Ponsonby where all the waitresses wear Mexican flowers in their hair, it was fantastic! </div>
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<i>I was travellling round New Zealand by myself most of the time so I chose to hop on the Kiwi Experience tour in two separate places to see as much as I could with the little time I had there, because of the dates of the tour I was backwards and forwards from North and South to fit them in. However for the purpose of this post and for ease I am splitting the posts into North Island and South Island.</i></div>
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Kim and I took a road trip to Rotorua to visit the famous Hells Gate hot mud spa and take a tour around a Mauori tribe. It was so much fun at the spa, sitting in gurgling hot mud baths with the sunshine beating down on your skin felt incredible, the sulfur baths you go in afterwards were very relaxing but stank to high heaven!</div>
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The Mauori tribe greeted our tour with a traditonal dance and proceeded to take us around their grounds showing us different areas of their lives; tradition games, trades and dances. We were then treated to a special performance, half an hour of traditional dance rituals and songs followed by an out of this world feast consisting of traditional meats, breads, potatoes, vegetables and puddings.</div>
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Driving back home the following day we stopped a few times to stand in awe at the beautiful scenery, Rotorua is known for its thermal activity as it lies on Rotorua caldera, the town is covered in bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes. </div>
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Next stop was the Karanghake Gorge - one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places I have ever been too, it was so tranquil, the weather was stunning the the scenery was incredible. </div>
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Next stop on our journey home was a climb up/around Mount Maunganui, you could see for miles and it was littered with holiday makers and sheep!</div>
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And finally we stopped for lunch in Paeroa the town where New Zealand's famous L & P lemonade originated.</div>
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My first road trip ever was pretty spectacular! Other highlights of my time in Auckland were walking along the viaduct and watching the boats and the city pass us by, the botanical gardens, the fashion exhibition at the local museum, Mount Eden, the beach and my big jump off the highest point in Auckland, the sky tower! </div>
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Mount Eden and The Viaduct - from the top of Mount Eden you can see everything, it was stunning and so interesting to see the city layout, so different to the UK such vast spaces of greenery and fields dotted between high rise buildings and housing estates.</div>
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Base jumping off the Sky Tower - I'm not going to lie, I was petrified! It was a beautiful day and I was standing with my toes over the edge of the platform looking down thinking why have I just paid to jump of a building?! They counted down 3, 2, 1 JUMP! and I just stood there, feet frozen to the spot shaking my head and then something came over me and I stepped over the edge and got the most incredible rush it was phenomenal! The jump was over in seconds and I landed on my feet at the bottom desperate to relive that moment, the utter sense of freedom I felt falling from the building with the wind rushing past my face and the array of huge buildings and water around me, perfection. </div>
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The beach, a live band in central Auckland, the gorgeous vintage town Parnell and the Botanical Gardens - beach day was wonderful, slightly hungover from the party the night before we lay sprawled out on the beach for the majority of the day! Parnell is a gorgeous vintage style town with ice cream parlours, fabulous independent cafes and restaurants and a string of (expensive) little shops. The Botanical Gardens we visited on my second day along with the local museum which was so interesting and beautiful, an array of colours, smells and some of the tallest peculiar looking plants you will ever see.</div>
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Auckland is such a vibrant, busy, exciting city and one of the most fantastic things about New Zealand is that one minute you will be in the city centre and the next you are on the beach or climbing a fabulous mountain to see the views of the city, it really is the best of both worlds. </div>
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A massive thanks to Kim and Chris for being amazing hosts and tour guides =)</div>
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Next stop on my holiday diaries is Paihia and Cape Reinga....</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-92034928993841231802014-01-17T10:39:00.001+00:002014-05-14T21:58:03.511+01:00ICE ICE BABY<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hi dolls.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Last weekend I went to Canary Wharf, London to visit the 6th annual Ice Sculpting event.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Ten teams from,</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span><strong>Africa, Belgium, France, Hungary, Ireland, Poland, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom &USA </strong>competed<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> in a fun filled and action packed competition. Carving to the themes ‘Fabulous Fashion’ and ‘River Life’, sculptors used chainsaws and chisels to battle it out, in a variety of contests.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">We arrived around 11.30 and walked around to view the works in progress. The competition spans three days, the Sunday supposedly being the busiest as the winners are announced. The day was bright and crisp and the crowds few and far between at this point. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Here's what we saw:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">At this point this particular sculpture was my favourite - a little girl blowing bubbles. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Here you can see how they are carving out the bubbles, unfortunately we were told by this artist that because of the UV rays from the sun the inside of the ice has cracked whereas the day before it was completely see through making the bubble design even more spectacular. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">The food available was immense - various cuisines from all over the world including Portugal and India and my favourite part the bakery counter. Now unfortunately due to my excitement of all things sweet and baked I didn't picture the stall but I wish I had; macaroons in all the colours of the rainbow, chocolate chip cookies as big as my head, giant flavoured meringues and much more. (I went for the giant cookie, FYI it was superb, plenty of vanilla flavouring and a huge amount of crunchy chocolate chips, mmm!).</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">At two we left for lunch at ZiZi's about a 20 minute walk from the festival, although the food looked incredibly inviting we were all frozen solid and wanted an opportunity to warm up before the evenings events. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">When we returned the sun had gone down and the ice sculptures were lit up with blue lights - it wasn't until then that you could see the beautiful detail in these pieces. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YMi5A_eEfR8/U3PYloMoyjI/AAAAAAAAAgs/hbVPWGZJ8nc/s1600/32e5dba1-fa20-4ae4-a261-434a28d3593fwallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YMi5A_eEfR8/U3PYloMoyjI/AAAAAAAAAgs/hbVPWGZJ8nc/s1600/32e5dba1-fa20-4ae4-a261-434a28d3593fwallpaper.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And the winners were:</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Big Block Competition – theme ‘Fabulous Fashion’:<strong>Africa</strong></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Freestyle Competition: <strong>Burr ‘Buddy’ Rasmussen</strong>(USA)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This was such a great family day out and really interesting - all the tools and hours spent sculpting these huge blocks of ice to create a beautiful piece of art. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Next year, I would definitely recommend you go!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-32625310740158902302014-01-08T19:30:00.001+00:002014-05-14T21:59:30.766+01:00TEA WITH A TWIST<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now this post does exactly what it says on the tin and is about tea - shocker!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I'm a massive tea fanatic and love to try tea from all over the world. Two years ago I spent a few weeks in Vietnam and picked up rose tea, Vietnamese tea and artichoke tea (an acquired taste!) and loved the variety. I drink a lot of fruit teas in the uk and am always on the hunt for new flavours on trips abroad.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For Christmas my wonderful dad bought me a gorgeous glass tea pot with some mango marigold flowering tea from www.exoticteapot.co.uk who offer a fabulous selection of tea's and tea-wear (completely made that word up trying to sound like a tea connoisseur!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I tried a flowering tea once before on a birthday trip to a local Chinese restaurant and have been taken with it ever since. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The flavour is very delicate and I absolutely love watching the flower bloom in the tea. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Que a stream of photos of the flower blooming...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Each blossom is hand crafted by artisan tea masters in Fujian Province, China". www.exoticteapot.co.uk</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you love tea I would definitely give this a try whether it's for a relaxing evening on your own or after a dinner party with friends it's a great finish to any evening!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Until my next exciting tea adventure ......</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Xx</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-54872855966950165602013-12-27T11:55:00.001+00:002014-05-14T22:00:52.532+01:00A BLOGGERS SECRET SANTA <div style="text-align: center;">
Hello sweets!</div>
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Recently I was involved with one of the many bloggers secret Santa box swaps. 50 of us sent our information - name, address, blog link, three likes and three dislikes - to the two lovely ladies running the swap for them to match us to someone similar. We set a budget and agreed to send out our gifts before December the 1st. </div>
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When my parcel arrived I was so excited! My secret Santa had put a letter in with my gifts with a note on the front explaining that if I wanted to wait until Christmas I shouldn't open the letter as she had explained why she has bought me all the gifts.</div>
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Naturally I was too excited to wait so I went ahead and opened my parcel!</div>
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I got so many goodies in here I was really spoilt and my secret Santa really did her research! </div>
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Most of my gifts were in this gorgeous Christmas storage tin as I love to bake! So thoughtful.</div>
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There were a few gifts that wouldn't for in the tin so I opened them first.</div>
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These are the makeup gifts I got - the Natural Glow Palette by BarryM which she explained looks like a great dupe for the Naked palette, she also included a smokey eye brush from H and M to create new looks. I've never used anything other than nailvarnish and mascara from Barry M so I was really excited to try this out! The colours are just beautiful - 4 shimmery shadows and 2 matt shadows with a glittery pastel pink blush. I love how these colours look on, they blend really well and there are so many looks you can create with this palette for any season or equally any occasion. </div>
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Here is a close up of the lipstick - the lipstick was from Primark which again I have never used the colour is a stunning coral and the consistency is very moisturising and it actually smells gorgeous! Definitely heading there soon to pick up a few more! </div>
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I have heard great things about the OPI nail lacquers but never picked up one for myself. This one is part of the shatter collection in a deep rich red colour perfect for the festive season!</div>
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I got these bright pink fluffy socks (two of my favourite things pink and keeping warm!) along with a Christmas Eve Yankee candle in a little glass holder this smells divine and I did burn it ok Christmas Eve! The nakd berry cheeky bar bevause I'm veggie was such a lovely touch again I had never tried this but I absolutely love them now and have one every day on my tea break! </div>
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Included was this beautiful statement necklace also from H and M and mentioned in my letter was that she has noticed I love my statement jewellery and she thought this was a really pretty delicate one to add to my collection :) so sweet!</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Finally I got a Nivea soft moisturising cream as like most people my hands are dry in the winter - perfect little size for my handbag and to take into the shop floor with me (working with shoe boxes all the time dries my hands even more!) and a cupcake lipgloss. One of the things I said was I was very girly and loved pink and this just sums me up completely! </span></div>
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I was completely overwhelmed by the gifts my secret Santa put together for me, it was like she knew me so well to get everything so spot on. The letter I got was really lovely and I loved the personalised touch, so I would like to say a massive thank you to my gorgeous Secret Santa :</div>
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Please visit her fabulous blog http://www.zeenaxena.com/ or follow her here on twitter @zeenaxena.</div>
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Thanks so much sweets! I hope everyone else was as lucky as me when it came to their Secret Santa swaps.</div>
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Mwah x</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-11894591855089566512013-12-17T19:12:00.001+00:002014-05-14T21:08:22.181+01:00TEE-ING OFF CHRISTMAS AT WENTWORTH Hello!<br />
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Every year we are lucky enough to be treated to the most delicious Christmas buffet at Wentworth Golf Club in Surrey by my Grandparents. </div>
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This year was no exception and the food was superb. The displays are spectacular and the range of food is one not to be rivaled. </div>
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I focused mainly on the dessert table as that is my favourite part of the meal! Their sticky toffee pudding is the best I have ever eaten in my life - I don't even order it anywhere else it's that good! There is a standing joke that the first thing the grandchildren do is check to see if it's out (we still do this every year!). </div>
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(Gingerbread mini village.)</div>
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The room is filled with Christmas scents, the whole club is packed out with families enjoying their Pre-Christmas celebrations, and frivolity is all around. Half way through the meal we are treated to several carols by a wonderful choir and a magician that invokes the whole family and makes everyone laugh! </div>
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It's lovely to spend time together as a family enjoying delicious food swapping presents and anecdotes since we last met, it's something we all always look forward to and being invited to the club is a real treat.</div>
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I stuck to pinks and silvers for my makeup I wanted something subtle that could take me from day to night but also with a bit of sparkle! Silver and golds make me feel festive and in a celebratory mood.</div>
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I recently came across a website called Sheinside.com that sells clothes at discounted prices - they come from china so the delivery time is about three weeks but the prices and the clothes seemed great. (Although out of two dresses and a coat I was only really taken with this particular dress, the other two items are OK).</div>
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So anywhere here is the dress - please excuse the photo I had been travelling for quite a whole therefore it is creased and there is a lot of clutter in the background of the photo but you get the jist!</div>
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I love the shape it's really flattering, is made of a really thick cotton with a jacquard print embellishment. I love the simplicity of this dress, it's so pretty and versatile. Very pleased! </div>
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I paired it with thick black silky tights and a pair of black suede wedge ankle boots from stylist pick.com a year ago. </div>
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Unfortunately I didn't get any photos of the family together - we were enjoying ourselves too much!</div>
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I hope you are enjoying your pre Christmas celebrations! Looking forward to many more 😊</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-21785580205403095442013-12-08T18:53:00.001+00:002014-05-14T21:08:35.314+01:00GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUNHi Dolls!<br />
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For my 25th birthday this year my best friend booked us a weekend away at a beautiful spa hotel in Manchester - the weekend was full of champagne, lavish food, laughter, relaxation and a good old catch up! Needless to say when her birthday came round I wanted to do a similar thing.</div>
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Whilst perusing wowcher I came across a deal for the Mercure Hotel (http://www.mercurenottingham.com) in Nottingham for an overnight stay for two with a three course meal and breakfast.</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">After doing a little research I thought this would be perfect - a lovely little 4 star hotel in the heart of Nottingham and it didn't disappoint! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Walking into the lobby we were greeted with a huge wooden oldfashion stair case and huge Christmas tree.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Our room was small but lovely - squishy comfortable double bed, tv, iPod Dock and a fantastic power shower (don't know about you but that's one of my favourite parts of staying in a hotel). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We started off the evening with a bottle if pink Lanson champagne, dressed up and went down to the hotel restaurant for dinner. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Here is what I wore - grey swing dress from Asos, monochrome bag with bee detail from Primark, black heels and a gold statement necklace from Forever21. Unfortunately I didn't get any photos of us on the night but below is a photo of me in the dress before hand so you can</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">see how it fits - it's one of my absolute favourite dresses fits like a glove and is so simple and soft.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Makeup wise I did strong eyes using browns, golds and black and kept the lips and face pretty neutral. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The food was delicious and followed by another bottle of fizz! After our meal we headed off to the theatre which luckily was a 10 minute walk around the corner. There we saw Dreamboats and Pettycoats which is a real feel good tap your feet kinda musical. Although we weren't too familiar with most of the songs being that it's based in the sixties we really got into the swing of it! The costumes were perfect - I love a huge skirt with Pettycoats, red lips and big hair! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Although being perfectly central for hitting the bars and clubs after the theater we decided to head back to the room to have a proper natter and watch a few films.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">After a good nights sleep (apart from all the noise from the street) we headed for breakfast and reluctantly packed up ready to catch our trains to either ends of the country.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We had a fabulous weekend and I am currently looking forward to our next weekend away (which we have already booked!).</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-67922824218392103192013-12-03T21:32:00.001+00:002014-05-14T21:09:45.631+01:00THE SUNSHINE AWARD<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello Lovelies!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The fabulous Rae from </span><a href="http://www.4evafashionprincessmonthly.com/" style="font-family: inherit;">http://www.4evafashionprincessmonthly.com</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> nominated me for the Sunshine Award - I love finding out interesting facts about the people behind the blogs I read, something you don't expect to find in their usual posts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zeDwJVRw9tg/Up5HYjX1sxI/AAAAAAAAAWY/RTqiB9HCJf0/s1600/The+sunshine+award.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zeDwJVRw9tg/Up5HYjX1sxI/AAAAAAAAAWY/RTqiB9HCJf0/s320/The+sunshine+award.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">So here are the Rules</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">- Share 11 random facts about myself</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Answer the 11 questions from the nominating blogger gave me</span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- List bloggers I believe deserve recognition</span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Post 11 questions for my nominations to answer</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><u>11 Random Facts About Me</u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">1. I have five dogs, two guinea pigs and two rabbits - I love animals, I don't think I could have a life without pets!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">2. I've always wanted to be a Disney princess in Disney World, Florida but I can't sing or dance really!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">3. My favourite films are Audrey Hepburn films - for me she is the epitome of elegance, grace and beauty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">4. I have been in a long distance relationship for 7 years</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">5. I love travelling, if I could I'd constantly save up just to travel to more places</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">6. I adore photography - I have no training in it and don't know much I'm more of a take hundreds of photos until I find the shot I love kinda girl</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">7. My favourite colour has always been pink (typical girl!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">8. I am a very positive person, always look on the bright side (of life do do...)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">9. I love being comfy, that's why I spend most of my time in jeans and jumpers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">10. When I go to the theatre or out for an occasion I adore dressing up - as I said before I spend most of my time in my comfys so when I get the chance </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">to put on a pretty dress and do my hair and makeup I really go to town!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">11. For the past three years I have been to see Phantom of the Opera for my birthday - and guess what is top of my list next year?!</span></div>
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<u style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>Rae's Questions</b></u></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">1. </span><i style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">What is your favourite make-up product to buy?</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">I love buying lipsticks at the moment</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">2. </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">What is your favourite clothes shop?</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Hmm probably H and M - love the mixture of styles available and the prices are always so reasonable</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">3. </span><i style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">What is your favourite nail polish brand?</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Has to be Barry M!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">4. What is your favourite nail polish colour/name?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Very plain and simple Natural Collection French Pink</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">5. Are you going to any Christmas/New years parties?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">No! Well sort of - this year I am going to a dinner party at a friends house for New Years Eve, I am providing the pudding!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">6. If you could only wear one make-up product, what would it be?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Oooh tricky! Probably mascara - my glasses are quite thick and so my eyes can disappear behind the frames</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">7. Do you have any pets?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">See above answer! To recap - five dogs, two rabbits and two guinea pigs =)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">8. What is your favourite thing to do on a weekend?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I work a Saturday so my weekends are Friday and Sunday - Friday I take Grandad out for lunch and do his shopping every week so Sunday I like to catch up on things, relax and blog!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">9. What is your favourite meal?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My Mum's Cauliflower Cheese</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">10. What is your favourite TV show?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I loved The Ghost Whisperer as I think Jennifer Love Hewitt is just stunning - but currently its the Big Bang Theory</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">11. What is your favourite film</span><b style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;">?</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Anything with Audrey Hepburn</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><u>My Questions</u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">1. Do you take your own photos for your blog? (If so do you enjoy doing it?)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">2. Why did you start your blog?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">3. Who/which blogger made you fall in love with youtube videos/blogging?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">4. If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">5. What is your go to makeup look?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">6. How would you describe your style?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">7. Do you enjoy going to the theatre?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">8. Do you do any cooking/baking?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">9. What is your favourite beauty product?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">10. If you could start your own company what would it be?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">11. What was your dream job as a child?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">I hope you enjoy filling these out and finding out more about people! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">I am aware that lots of you have done this already so I am going to tag some new friends and anyone else that wants to do it but hasn't yet:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Lauryn @ffairsfairydust</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Tash Berbank @tdotberbank</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Tamsyn @peachpowxo</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Lucy @homemadephoto</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Please let me know if you do the tag would love to know your answers! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">xx</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-45669716408648530222013-11-23T16:05:00.000+00:002014-05-14T21:10:34.057+01:00A LOVE AFFAIR WITH PEDRO MIRALLES <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Although the title may imply it to some; this is not confession hour and I have not actually had a love affair with a man called Pedro Miralles!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pedro Miralles is a superbly crafted, expertly sourced Spanish footwear brand that I have recently discovered through my m<span style="font-family: inherit;">any trips to <a href="http://www.hoadshoes.co.uk/">Hoad Shoes</a> in Sevenoaks, Kent. Having incredibly narrow feet (standard is a 'D' width, I am a 'B') and being in the age that we are where the normal is now average to wide I really struggle findi</span>ng shoes that don't slip on the heel - que numerous distressing shopping trips and trying on sessions! As you can imagine, discovering the beautiful collection by Pedro Miralles and trying on the superb selection and them ACTUALLY FITTING oh my heart skipped a beat!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">(Just a note - although I have always struggled to find shoes that fit, if you looked in my shoe collection you would have trouble believing my claim!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So far I have acquired three beautifully made pairs of Pedro Miralles shoes (all pictured below).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Say hello to my first pair of Pedro's - patent camel pumps with gold buckle detail. To me these scream sophistication - a classic cut with slightly more heel than you would expect from an every day pump make these perfect for dressier occasions, work or casual events. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Number two - a fabulous sale purchase (if I do say so myself!) again another classic model black patent court shoes. The almond toe shape, thick platform and patent finish make these a timeless piece of footwear beauty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pair number three - coral sling back pumps. Once again the gold detailing, Cuban style heel and contrast stitching to the upper create a stylish and (I'm going to say it again) beautiful looking shoe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My love for Pedro Miralles shoes began with the fact that they are a perfect fit for me but really took off with the attention to detail and classic styles which are transformed from your generic every day shoe with the addition of perfectly chosen colour palettes, material finishes and interesting trims. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Next up on my Pedro Miralles lust list are these stunning burgundy knee high heeled boots and the black loafer-esq pumps.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love the deep rich tone of this boot would look utterly fabulous for an evening alternative to court shoes; the finish of the leather ensures this boot doesn't dress down any outfit ensemble.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love a classic loafer/moccasin style (who doesn't?!) these are loosely based around them keeping elements such as the tassel and toe shape but dress it up by adding the contrast patent block heel and rich suede uppers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I think Pedro and I will have a lasting relationship although I believe my bank account will protest profusely!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-73597332677753685642013-11-04T19:27:00.000+00:002014-05-14T21:11:32.381+01:00O HEAR US WHEN WE CRY TO THEE FOR THOSE IN PERIL ON THE SEA; A MEMORIAL <div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This weekend my step dad had the honour of being asked to lay a wreath at the Sub-Mariners Memorial service in London; and we were asked to accompany him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Sub-Mariners memorial service remembers all of those brave soldiers that have been lost at sea; this memorial service is always on the Sunday preceding Remembrance Sunday. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The service began with the Sub-Mariners band playing while the sailors, admirals and others marched towards the memorial wall. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">All the spectators were dressed in black with their Poppy's showing in all their glory against a dark canvas. Ex sub-mariners and current alike were wearing their uniforms which was really lovely to see, so many people there to remember their comrades from all the wars before now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Before the memorial started we boarded the HMS President and saw the beautiful views of London - the weather was perfect a crisp, dry day with gorgeous sunshine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The service went on for 1 hour and included the naval prayer which can be found <a href="http://www.royal-naval-association.co.uk/help/faq/6/">here</a> and the naval hymn which can be found in the same place (the title is a line from the hymn, I thought it was very relevant but so poignant). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As for what I wore; I kept my make-up really neutral for the day going with bronze/brown eyes, neutral lips and pale pink blusher with a white icy tone. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I mentioned before we all wore black out of respect I wore a black textured pencil skirt from New Look (similar <a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/skirts/black-textured-wave-pencil-skirt_284348001">here</a>) and a thick black jumper (I really feel the cold!) with black suede wedge ankle boots (old from stylistpick.com).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Unfortunately my phone ran out of battery before I could photograph the wreaths but I will upload the ones my sister got soon. The service was beautiful and a fantastic tribute to those lost and those still fighting. To find out more about the Sub-Mariners please click <a href="http://www.submarinersassociation.co.uk/IndexHome.html">here</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Have you ever been to a memorial service like this? What did you think? What did you wear?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nicola x </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-9989716770142306962013-10-30T20:23:00.002+00:002014-05-14T21:12:11.281+01:00BEAUTY BOX SWAP<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After chatting to my lovely friend Chloe from <a href="http://www.closbeautyspot.com/">Clo's beauty spot </a> about my holiday to America we decided to do a box swap - I would buy cosmetics in America for her and she would buy cosmetics from the UK for me and we would post them out to each other. I'm sure you have all heard of a box swap before but if not basically you both choose a budget, mention things you really don't like, for example I told Clo I don't think red lipstick suits me, and then you buy items you think the other would like! Its a great way to find new products you haven't tried before or to get your hands on some items you can't get in your country.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So below are the items Chloe sent me, she put little notes with each item to explain why she bought it which I thought was super cute =)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">MUA Undress me too eye shadow palette</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Barry M Eye shadow pencil </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you can read the note she has put noticed that you love statement necklaces so thought you'd like this one. I love it!! From Primark. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hK0tPphJdzU/UnFkpe1Ow5I/AAAAAAAAAQE/HPjHFCeyUvI/s1600/IMG_8765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hK0tPphJdzU/UnFkpe1Ow5I/AAAAAAAAAQE/HPjHFCeyUvI/s320/IMG_8765.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This bracelet she brought all the way back from her holiday in Turkey!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am so happy with all the items Chloe bought me - I love MUA I have one of their other eye shadow palettes, I've always wanted to try the colour tattoo and love burgundy at the moment (I think we all do this time of year =)), never really tried eye pencils so that was great and always need a lip product for the winter I have a terrible habit of biting my lips.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So first impressions were great! Unpacking the box was really exciting especially reading all the notes and seeing why she had chosen the products she had. The jewellery was completely unexpected but is so me and I love it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So far I have experimented with the MUA eye palette and the Maybelline colour tattoo eye shadow; below are the looks I created. (I also created a more neutral look for a wedding <a href="http://wishingonablonde.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/a-comic-book-wedding.html">here</a>.)</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jh9-nx4QNd8/UnFnTF9xgoI/AAAAAAAAAQY/b9zj-DW6Czg/s1600/IMG_8930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jh9-nx4QNd8/UnFnTF9xgoI/AAAAAAAAAQY/b9zj-DW6Czg/s320/IMG_8930.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ihJa0oKGd-I/UnFndgRvu4I/AAAAAAAAAQg/V0UBgCECOmQ/s1600/IMG_8946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ihJa0oKGd-I/UnFndgRvu4I/AAAAAAAAAQg/V0UBgCECOmQ/s320/IMG_8946.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">MUA palette using colours Shy in the tear duct and under the brows, Lavish in the crease, Exposed on the lid and corrupt in the outer corner.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here I used Maybelline Colour Tattoo as a base and then Fiery (gold) from the MUA palette on the eye lid, Naked in the tear duct and Wink in the outer corner. Used Lavish in the crease again.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S5CshFIOBvw/UnFn13MBLXI/AAAAAAAAAQw/EdPVZILfsTc/s1600/photo+5+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S5CshFIOBvw/UnFn13MBLXI/AAAAAAAAAQw/EdPVZILfsTc/s320/photo+5+(2).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here I used the Maybelline as the base, and a mixture of all the golds and bronze tones in the palette and blended it out with Lavish again.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0gyr7zwZls/UnFn51CigYI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/Mv6qc8fuc2o/s1600/photo+4+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0gyr7zwZls/UnFn51CigYI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/Mv6qc8fuc2o/s320/photo+4+(4).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is just a fun look I created for Halloween! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I have used the Barry M eye pencil on my water line and it definitely brightens up the eye area and is easy to use, doesn't hurt the eye at all. The Nivea smells incredible, gives the lips a neutral sheen which I love.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I adore the MUA palette will definitely be a staple in my collection - the colours are stunning I love golds and bronze tones they blend really well and have fantastic staying power! The texture is really silky and the colour pay off is top notch. I adore the Maybelline Colour Tattoo - it takes on new dimensions and colours when you use it as a base and layer it with other colours but also stands well on its own if you use it as an all over lid colour by itself. Its really easy to blend and layer and doesn't feel heavy on the lid for a cream shadow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you so much Chloe! I love my goodies =)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Have you done box swaps? Have you tried any of these products?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">See you soon =)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nicola </span>x</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-49676881546649832342013-10-27T16:25:00.000+00:002014-05-14T21:12:49.983+01:00MY FLORIDA DIARIES: FASHION EDIT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hi Lovelies!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is a quick post on my holiday outfits, I kept to floaty materials and dresses and little shorts and chiffon cami's as it was so hot in America. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nhf2w8RA2Xg/UmqxjF-iP1I/AAAAAAAAANg/tr4B34weQgA/s1600/IMG_8278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nhf2w8RA2Xg/UmqxjF-iP1I/AAAAAAAAANg/tr4B34weQgA/s320/IMG_8278.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Coral and White Lace Midi Dress (holiday bargain)</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-43cagWX1MI8/UmqzEZTS3yI/AAAAAAAAANo/dRz14deGzzs/s1600/photo+1+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-43cagWX1MI8/UmqzEZTS3yI/AAAAAAAAANo/dRz14deGzzs/s320/photo+1+(1).JPG" height="320" width="291" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Floral Maxi Dress, Tesco Sale £4</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r2bkznywjhc/UmqzFvDK7aI/AAAAAAAAANw/AEDqm6d9kZ8/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r2bkznywjhc/UmqzFvDK7aI/AAAAAAAAANw/AEDqm6d9kZ8/s320/photo+1.JPG" height="320" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Aztec Print Maxi Dress, Primark £13</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TQPfkeNZgAg/UmqzGuMJ-MI/AAAAAAAAAN4/w8QNCvUxnUo/s1600/photo+2+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TQPfkeNZgAg/UmqzGuMJ-MI/AAAAAAAAAN4/w8QNCvUxnUo/s320/photo+2+(1).JPG" height="320" width="305" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Black Chiffon Cami, H&M £12</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Green Mini Shorts, Zara £12 Sale</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sHln219v82g/UmqzHx8QXaI/AAAAAAAAAOA/iFqBMPUXHFU/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sHln219v82g/UmqzHx8QXaI/AAAAAAAAAOA/iFqBMPUXHFU/s320/photo+2.JPG" height="320" width="317" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Burgundy Chiffon Capri, Primark £5</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">White Tulip Skirt, Boohoo £12</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aSi9xW9cQ8c/UmqzJbzIO6I/AAAAAAAAAOI/I-7IagaADbA/s1600/photo+4+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aSi9xW9cQ8c/UmqzJbzIO6I/AAAAAAAAAOI/I-7IagaADbA/s320/photo+4+(1).JPG" height="320" width="310" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">White and Black Trimmed Chiffon Cami, Primark £5</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Burgundy Denim Cut Offs, New Look Sale £8</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xkhD7829Q2o/UmqzK3aM-II/AAAAAAAAAOQ/UV0JkS9CmM8/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xkhD7829Q2o/UmqzK3aM-II/AAAAAAAAAOQ/UV0JkS9CmM8/s320/photo+4.JPG" height="320" width="310" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">White Strappy, Primark £2</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Spotty High Waisted Shorts, Forever21</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T-z0FrU8CF8/UmqzL6ih1jI/AAAAAAAAAOY/HqVVbha7Zhs/s1600/photo+3+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T-z0FrU8CF8/UmqzL6ih1jI/AAAAAAAAAOY/HqVVbha7Zhs/s320/photo+3+(1).JPG" height="320" width="312" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Black Strappy, Primark £2</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tulip Skirt as above</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Top as above</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Aztec Print Shorts, eBay</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8cl1xOMSrM/UmqzOzKN47I/AAAAAAAAAOo/7SeQWSOy-Cc/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8cl1xOMSrM/UmqzOzKN47I/AAAAAAAAAOo/7SeQWSOy-Cc/s320/photo+3.JPG" height="316" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Supporting my team the Tampa Bay Rays! Old Navy $19.99</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What are your holiday wardrobe staples?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">xx</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-13667793547974411742013-10-25T18:54:00.001+01:002014-05-14T21:13:17.266+01:00MY FLORIDA DIARIES: UNIVERSAL STUDIOS <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi Loves!<br />
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Here is another entry for my holiday diaries - although a little late! I have visited the Disney parks before in Orlando Florida however my boyfriend has not, we were a little short on money so decided to just visit one park, Universal Studios. The weather was perfect - beautiful blue skies, sunshine and a slight breeze and because of the time of year we went the longest waiting time was 30 minutes and that was for the newest ride Despicable Me (it was grrrreat!!).<br />
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We had such a fantastic time and really acted like tourists getting the souvenir cups, our caricature done and eating everything in sight! So instead of me blabbing on about all the rides etc I thought I'd just leave it as a photo diary. Enjoy =)<br />
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Biggest donut ever!</div>
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Have any of you visited the Disney Parks in Florida? What did you think? I love Universal Studios you can't help but walk round the park smiling takes you back to childhood with the mixture of film character parades, roller coasters and simulators. The Terminator 3d experience will never get old!<br />
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Though I'd leave you with our caricature, what do you think?!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-43598837788116055892013-10-22T18:30:00.000+01:002014-05-14T21:13:45.401+01:00A COMIC BOOK WEDDINGHello Lovelies!<br />
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At the weekend I went to my cousin's wedding in Whitstable - a lovely little seaside town littered with small independent shops and souvenirs. My cousin and his bride are massive comic book fans and therefore based their wedding around this theme - they did it in such a cute and subtle way with decorations such as comic book bunting and individual papers flowers made out of comic book pages in each of the bouquets.<br />
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After a last minute trip to Bluewater and a few 'oh my gosh what am I going to wear' moments I settled on this gorgeous spliced flower print <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/sale-offers-436/sale-799/dresses-playsuits-815/cutabout-floral-maxi-dress-2108273?refinements=category~%5b398598%7c398526%5d&bi=1&ps=200">maxi dress from Topshop</a> which was amazingly in the sale for £18! Only one in store my size - fate! I paired it with a top knot with pink flower head band from Primark, gold and black Aztec inspired earrings also from Primark, the most comfortable cream canvas wedges from New Look that I bought inthe summer (not available online any more) and my Nanny's classic black handbag and gold chain necklace that I used as a bracelet. (My gorgeous Nanny passed away two years ago and all the women in the family took one of her handbags so she could be there with us =).)<br />
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I kept my makeup very simple with neutral eyes using my new MUA palette, Clinique blush and a Wet and Wild pink lipstick, below is the finished look.</div>
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The bride and groom both wore comic book inspired converse continuing the theme into the reception with a personalised comic book sweetie corner, comic book wedding cake made by one of the guests and a polaroid camera with costumes to dress up and personalise your page in the guest book. The theme was subtle but done very well running along side a shabby chic element with lace table runners and white wooden lanterns. The wedding was inform and so much fun, below are some pictures from the day.</div>
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The Groom showing off his Aqua Man Converse Hi-tops.</div>
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The Brides footwear - paired with super cute and fashionable lace ankle socks.</div>
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The back of the dress, pleats, lace, diamonds all in an elegant a-line cut with a short double layered veil scattered with jewels. Stunning.</div>
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The cake with the Groom as Aqua Man bursting through the top to save his Bride!</div>
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I have to mention the gift we got them as I think it is so cute and the company I bought from are fab! Alphabet photography is relatively new but incredibly expensive, after a lot of research I came across Grace and David's website <a href="http://alphabetphotodesign.co.uk/">http://alphabetphotodesign.co.uk/</a>. The price is much more reasonable compared to other sites and the service is first class, check them out for special occasions =)</div>
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I always struggle with a winter wedding worried that I'm going to be too cold - it took me such a long time to find a suitably warm and pretty outfit that wasn't black!</div>
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So what do you think? What would you wear for a winter wedding?</div>
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Nicola x</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-9241954848453897912013-10-14T20:07:00.003+01:002014-05-14T21:16:01.351+01:00BAKING BEAUTIES TAG <div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Evening sweets!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The wonderful Nicole Baxter from coleoftheballl33.blogspot.co.uk tagged me in this relatively new baking beauties tag - so excited to be doing this I adore baking and creating things.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So here it is:</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">1. What is the first thing you remember baking?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My first cook book was the Winnie the Pooh and Friends cook book and I made Eeyore's cheese straws! Nanny and Grandad were looking after my sister and I for the weekend while my parents went away and we made these for their return - along with some stuffed and scented coat hangers!</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. What was the last thing you baked?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My soaked lemon cake and chocolate ganache filled cupcakes for my step-dad's retirement party. </span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Something you've always wanted to bake?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ooh thats a tricky one there are so many! I would say the major one is a Christmas cake - I don't actually like many Christmas cakes myself but a lot of my family do so I'd love to make a really yummy one!</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">4. Tell us about something you baked and it went terribly wrong</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is easy! I really fancied making some cookies one night - envisioned biting into a gooey super chocolatey cookie so found a recipe online, chopped up LOADS of chocolate (milk, white and dark, I was really going for it!) and followed the instructions. Watched them bake and when I took them out of the oven I almost danced with glee I was so excited to eat these - as you can imagine once you have built something up this much they were a major let down. They went rock solid once cooled, couldn't even break them by throwing them on the floor! They smelt like gone off eggs and tasted like stale popcorn! Threw them in the bin!</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">5. Be honest, do you lick the spoon?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Definitely not, I've never understood the appeal! I eat the chocolate while cooking though =)</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">6. How often do you bake?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Depends how much time I have but as often as possible maybe once a week. Also depends on if I've got any cakes on order. I'd really like to bake more, I have so many fantastic cake tins, cookie cutters and piping bag tips and ideas but its difficult when not in your own kitchen.</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">7. What baking success are you most proud of?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hmm that's also a tricky one as recently I've made some pretty cool (if I do say so myself!) cakes, I really try to experiment with different ideas. If I had to choose it would probably be this one: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I think the home made honeycomb and the little bees really make the cake.</span></div>
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<u>8. Do you tidy up as you go along or leave a big mess until the end?</u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While baking I tidy up as I go along but while decorating I leave a mess until the end, don't want to ruin the creative flow. Paha!!</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">9. Do you use recipe books or get them online?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nearly always use recipe books, I have a few that I stick to like glue, they have never failed me.</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">10. Do you stick to the recipe or experiment a little?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Always like to experiment I find it more fun - unless like I said before I have a cake on order then I stick to my classic recipes, don't want to disappoint after all that hard work.</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">11. Who are your favourite food bloggers?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.whatrachelate.com/">http://www.whatrachelate.com/</a> - she hasn't posted in a while but love looking back at all her yummy eats! And <a href="http://eatlikeagirl.com/">http://eatlikeagirl.com/</a> great mix of food and travel.</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: inherit;">12. What is your favourite thing to bake?</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love trying new things but probably my favourite things are biscuits - simple, so many variations, different ways to decorate and can eat straight from the oven =)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I hope you all enjoyed the read, now I tag:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tamsyn Elizabeth at <a href="http://peachpowxo.blogspot.co.uk/">http://peachpowxo.blogspot.co.uk</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sam from <a href="http://www.honeygo-lightly.com/">http://www.honeygo-lightly.com/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">and Krystina at <a href="http://krystinaskitchen89.blogspot.co.uk/">http://krystinaskitchen89.blogspot.co.uk/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Looking forward to reading all your answers x</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">x</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-15226718010682855102013-10-13T12:22:00.001+01:002014-05-14T21:16:48.275+01:00AUTUMNAL MAKEUP LOOK <div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So one of my many beauty purchases from America was the Cover Girl eye enhancers palette in colour 222 - I bought quite a bit of CG as I have always loved the brand but really struggle to get hold of it in the UK so really wanted to stock up while I was in the US. With my Walgreens card all CG cosmetics were buy one get one 50% so I really went to town! This palette in particular stuck out for the mix of colours and the gorgeous deep shimmery burgundy colour at the end. This palette is a great size to keep in your handbag for touch ups throughout the day or for an easy day to night transition.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pH41l5aY-o4/UlqAV1mUArI/AAAAAAAAAI4/q_1KL9-cVdo/s1600/photo+1+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pH41l5aY-o4/UlqAV1mUArI/AAAAAAAAAI4/q_1KL9-cVdo/s400/photo+1+(4).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a> The colours have a silky texture and blend really easily together, for today I wanted to create a deep autumnal look with strong eye make-up and keep the rest of the face really neutral.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7GQCzyoIrU/UlqAyCSMAbI/AAAAAAAAAJA/gIw2mIYvno0/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7GQCzyoIrU/UlqAyCSMAbI/AAAAAAAAAJA/gIw2mIYvno0/s320/photo+1+(3).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a>I used the burgundy all over my lids, blended it out into my crease along with a bit of the black and used the white shimmer to high light my brow bones and the corners of my eyes. On the rest of my face is:<br />Benefit They're Real Mascara<br />Bourjois Perfect 123 Foundation<br />Rimmel Stay Matte Long Lasting Pressed Powder<br />Clinique Blusher in 114 Iced Lotus<br />MUA Pro-Brow Kit<br />Nivea Lip Gloss<br />I am a massive fan of CG but I really adore this palette - there are so many combinations without bringing in any other palettes so its really handy for use on the go or last minute plans! The colours wore really well - I always prep my eyes with MUA eyeshadow primer but the intensity of the colours lasted all day with very little creasing. I really like the contrast of strong, dark eyes with light neutral lips perfect for day wear.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fyBCFc1BWug/UlqEM2cPY2I/AAAAAAAAAJM/qsyDrdFCn6Y/s1600/photo+3+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fyBCFc1BWug/UlqEM2cPY2I/AAAAAAAAAJM/qsyDrdFCn6Y/s640/photo+3+(1).JPG" height="640" width="619" /></a><br />Have any of you tried the CG eye palettes? What looks would you create with these colours?<br />Nicola x</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-35241950074717843352013-10-11T10:33:00.001+01:002014-05-14T21:17:18.800+01:00MY CAKE CREATIONS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16YMQ2Z6mLY/UlfDH4bHowI/AAAAAAAAAHw/1BoFCZfBw0I/s1600/photo+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16YMQ2Z6mLY/UlfDH4bHowI/AAAAAAAAAHw/1BoFCZfBw0I/s320/photo+1.PNG" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is the first cake I made using fondant icing, slight mistake with the colour of the butter icing on the top of the bow. Should have coloured the butter icing to match with the bow but nevermind - a lesson not to be forgotten!</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5XsG4lDsXE8/UlfDgOV2xAI/AAAAAAAAAH4/4Y3vKtHHkZc/s1600/photo+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5XsG4lDsXE8/UlfDgOV2xAI/AAAAAAAAAH4/4Y3vKtHHkZc/s320/photo+2.PNG" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This was my second cake creation - a soaked lemon cake decorated as a bee hive with chocolate cupcakes, fondant icing bees and home made honeycomb. I got the idea of this cake from The Great British Bake off Red Nose Special and because my Dad is a sucker for honeycomb!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fzW2YOdSMlE/UlfD8yV90pI/AAAAAAAAAIA/vDHDCKxWF5o/s1600/photo+3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fzW2YOdSMlE/UlfD8yV90pI/AAAAAAAAAIA/vDHDCKxWF5o/s320/photo+3.PNG" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My third cake two tiered Minnie Mouse cake for a 16th Birthday party. Went down a treat =) Bottom level was a simple vanilla sponge and the top layer was devils chocolate cake (the secret is to use melted chocolate instead of cocoa powder, makes the cake much lighter and moist).</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M01r8yvRTKo/UlfEdVgxRvI/AAAAAAAAAII/kte-19fZXy0/s1600/photo+5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M01r8yvRTKo/UlfEdVgxRvI/AAAAAAAAAII/kte-19fZXy0/s320/photo+5.PNG" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here was my biggest cake to date - a four tiered engagement cake, each tier was in the shape of a hear and I made icing roses cascading down the front. Alternated the layers between vanilla sponge and chocolate cake. Took about 10 hours but was so worth it =)</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pHX6f68FnG0/UlfE1R2R30I/AAAAAAAAAIQ/0zHtT41jib4/s1600/photo+3+(1).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pHX6f68FnG0/UlfE1R2R30I/AAAAAAAAAIQ/0zHtT41jib4/s320/photo+3+(1).PNG" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This was a three tiered heart shaped cake with chocolate butter cream roses and edible pearls for a wedding anniversary. Such a simple technique but adds so much to the appearance of the cake.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e-Z6hyEOw-0/UlfFIG2ZmbI/AAAAAAAAAIY/SEdFCXut5-8/s1600/photo+4+(1).PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e-Z6hyEOw-0/UlfFIG2ZmbI/AAAAAAAAAIY/SEdFCXut5-8/s320/photo+4+(1).PNG" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A two tiered vanilla sponge for a lovely lady's 100th Birthday! Very simple construction with blue centre daisy's. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QNxYeOu8IcY/UlfFeQu9EFI/AAAAAAAAAIg/G_h-Tfn7urg/s1600/photo+4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QNxYeOu8IcY/UlfFeQu9EFI/AAAAAAAAAIg/G_h-Tfn7urg/s320/photo+4.PNG" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">One of my favourites - my step sisters favourite animal is an octopus so what better way to decorate a cake!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I really enjoy baking and recently decorating cakes into all types of spectacular creations! Do any of you bake? Have you tried working with fondant icing? Would love to see some photos!</span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-34329911208496102372013-10-06T13:33:00.002+01:002014-05-14T21:19:43.507+01:00MY FLORIDA DIARIES: PUNTA GORDA FISHING VILLAGE <div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello lovelies!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I recently came back from my two week summer holiday to Engelwood, Sarasota in Florida. We did so much there that I want to blog about but thought to make it easier I’d break it down into mini blog posts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.fishville.com/" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; outline: none 0px;">Punta Gorda Fishermans Village</a> is located on the Port Charlotte Harbour and consists of a variety of shops and restaurants overlooking the pier. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">At the end of the parade of shops is <a href="http://www.harpoonharrys.com/" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; outline: none 0px;">Harpoon Harry’s </a> a gorgeous little restaurant bar overlooking the water. The food is freshly cooked to order and naturally being positioned on a pier the menu is heavily laden with fish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After eating (the food was absolutely delicious every time) and watching the boats go out to sea for an hour or so we hit the shops. My two favourite shops were <a href="http://www.naplessoap.com/" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; outline: none 0px;">The Naples Soap Company</a> and <a href="http://danatyler.com/" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; outline: none 0px;">Dana Tyler Jewellery.</a> Now if any of you have visited America before I don’t need to mention the impeccable customer service (if you haven’t it is unlike any customer service you will ever experience) however I felt the service in these two particular shops was above and beyond. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I mentioned the Naples Soap Company in my previous post about Skin Care as I bought an incredible, natural face cream for $16. Along with the face cream I bought one of their supposedly famous <a href="http://www.naplessoap.com/product-p/accesories-keywestlime.htm" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; outline: none 0px;">Loofa Soaps </a> in key west lime. This product is fantastic to have, it smells incredible and is so handy to use on the feet or anywhere on the body you wish to exfoliate. They do wonderful loofa soap bags that you can mix and match the colours that would do perfectly as gifts. While in the shop we also tried their sea salt scrubs - I know there are a lot of these out there but honestly my hands felt like silk once I had dried them! I am always on the hunt for a new company that uses all natural products and doesn’t cost the earth I just wish they were here in the UK too! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dana Tyler jewellery was a shop that caught my eye straight away - mainly the shiny, glistening necklaces in the window! </span></div>
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<em style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“We specialize in quality costume jewelry featuring high-end cubic zirconia, rhodium and 14kt gold plated collections. We find great pleasure in sourcing the latest trends in fashion jewelry and we invite you to experience for yourself, our enthusiasm for exciting new styles by visiting one of our three boutiques located in Southwest Florida.” (<a href="http://danatyler.com/about-danatyler" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; outline: none 0px;"></a><a href="http://danatyler.com/about-danatyler" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; outline: none 0px;">http://danatyler.com/about-danatyler</a>) </span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After learning all about the company from the charming sales assistant I set about choosing my jewellery and I came away with two beautiful pieces.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The quality of these jewellery pieces is stunning, they look beautiful on and wear really well, I have worn the ring every day since I bought it and although I remove it to moisturise any other daily job it has come through unharmed!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I really would recommend this beautiful quaint fishermans village for the stunning views, delicious food (restaurants, frozen yoghurt, fresh icecream, fudge and sweets) and variety of gorgeous shops.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Have you been to Florida? Where are your unlikely finds?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nicola x</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-39248592790853145502013-10-06T13:31:00.003+01:002014-05-14T21:22:11.096+01:00SKIN CARE TAG<div class="post_title" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.3; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">My lovely friend</span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> </span><a href="http://www.closbeautyspot.com/" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; outline: none 0px;">Chloe </a><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> tagged me to do the skin care post, it has taken me a while as I’ve been on holiday (blog coming soon!) but here it is, I hope you like it =)</span></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Describe your skin care routine in 5 words.</strong></div>
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Exfoliate, wash, tone, moisturise, massage ( technically massage and moisturise come hand in hand, I tend to massage my face cream into my skin - I read somewhere it helps the blood flow in your face but to be honest I just do it because it feels nice!)</div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">What’s your skin type?</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;"><br style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" /></strong>Combination but more towards oily. I get some dry patches and terrible eczema in the winter but have a very oily tzone (until recently!).</div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Top blemish zapper?</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;"><br style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" /></strong>Sudocrem - I have relied on this for as long as I can remember!</div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Face wipes - yay or nay?</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;"><br style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" /></strong>For me its definitely a no - they leave my skin feeling sticky and my pores clogged - they also make me lazy, if I have face wipes lying around the house and I get back late or am too tired I tend to head for these in favour of my normal skin care routine, not good!</div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Toner - yay or nay?</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;"><br style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" /></strong>I love toner I have always used it and I feel like my pores are tighter after using it - think its just me thought!</div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">High-end skin care or high-end makeup?</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;"><br style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" /></strong>I can’t say I’ve actually used much of either - I used to use a lot of Clinique make-up and have used YSL touch éclat but apart from that I am definitely a high-street girl (my bank account is very happy with this fact!). However if I had to choose I would go with high-end skin care as not only have I heard very good things about skin care from Clinique and Liz Earl but I believe that no matter how expensive the make up is if your base isn’t right it will never feel perfect. </div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">What’s the most unusual skin care product you’ve tried?</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;"><br style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" /></strong>Apart from using numerous different face masks and washes I haven’t really experimented much apart from using lemon juice to try and reduce spots and take away streaky fake tan, toothpaste on spots and cold tea bags on my eyes! </div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Tell us your top skin care tip.</strong></div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/nPt5eB4iNSAAU6O7xGrmhuO4u22htMLNi-cWNDI6OO5GGV4gFWhZdgOHvuYAieBfsd1ecS18fgeMpkrEtyFgC0gsxAZuwa2Yds_G_WMknM43puB4_1PfrR3_DWwDQj5YtLZEl2sSvHaaBw1l2W4yMA" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="image" border="0" class="toggle_inline_image inline_image constrained_image" src="http://media.tumblr.com/0521f7876ce1dc13318ab63295d3e925/tumblr_inline_mtj58fhcwf1qm6359.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgb(187, 187, 187) 0px 1px 4px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-shadow: rgb(187, 187, 187) 0px 1px 4px; box-sizing: border-box; display: block; height: auto !important; max-width: 125px; outline: none 0px; padding: 0px;" /></a><strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;"><br style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;" /></strong>Moisturise! I was always under the impression that if you had oily skin you shouldn’t moisturise but I couldn’t have been more wrong. This week I returned from my summer holiday to America with this fantastic face moisturiser from <a href="http://www.naplessoap.com/" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; outline: none 0px;">The Naples Soap Company</a> - my skin feels so soft and smooth afterwards and my oily skin has been significantly reduced!<br />
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">I hope you enjoyed my skin care post - nothing revolutionary but just what works for me =)</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">I now tag :</strong><br />
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Leanne from lipsticksoflove.blogspot.co.uk</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Shannon from raspberrykiss.co.uk</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Becki from right-up-my-street.blogspot.co.uk</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Beth from bethanyworall.com</strong></div>
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<strong style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">Nicola x</strong></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-26274065281463653142013-10-06T13:24:00.000+01:002014-05-14T21:23:40.734+01:00BOURJOIS 123 PERFECT MATCH FOUNDATION: A REVIEW <div class="post_title" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; line-height: 1.3; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
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As someone who suffers from oily skin and has to use blotting sheets numerous times a day (problems!) I am forever trying out new foundations sucked in by their claims of “all day matt finish” and “no more shine” but have yet to find one that stays true to its claim.<br />
After trying a few Bourjois products - adore their nail varnishes and shimmer shine liquid eye shadows - I thought I’d try one of theirs. I tweeted Bourjois asking which of their foundations they would recommend and within no time at all they replied to try their 123 perfect match foundation. Naturally I ran straight over to boots to grab a bottle. I had no problem finding my colour match (I usually find even the lightest is too dark for my skin) paid and couldn’t wait to try it.<br />
It comes in a glass bottle with a fitted pump - love the packaging feels expensive and worth the £10.99 price tag!<br />
One pump is plenty for the coverage I like - the foundation smells slightly fruity not at all like a cosmetic which I LOVE! It has quite a runny consistency which makes it very easy to blend in using my favourite too - Nanshy flat top kabooki brush- and feels almost like there is no product on your skin at all, making it perfect for the summer. The coverage is easily build-able and looks very natural on the skin. I applied the foundation on top of my primer and set it with my MUA translucent powder, added my blush and was ready for the day.<br />
Usually I have to blot a couple of hours into the day around my nose, chin, cheeks and forehead however I was completely surprised to find that my skin FINALLY had that matt finish I have been after for so long.<br />
I must add a note here that I still had to blot my forehead but I have a full thick fringe so this would happen with any product.</div>
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I cannot say a word against this product, if you struggle with oily skin or are looking for a new lightweight foundation to experiment with this is definitely worth a try!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-37749544211893373272013-10-06T13:20:00.001+01:002014-05-14T21:24:46.004+01:00MIDI AZTEC PRINT SKIRT: FASHION DIARIES <div style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I wore last night - absolutely loving midi skirts at the moment got this gorgeous one from prettylittlething.com for £10!! The print makes me feel summery - Love it! Paired it with a plain black peplum from newlook.com to add some shape and a gold necklace also from Newlook. Shoved my hair up into a huge bun to make the outfit look more polished and wore simple cream wedges again from newlook.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">How do you wear your midi skirts? Would love to see some pictures!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-75928284192846349212013-10-06T12:48:00.000+01:002014-05-14T21:25:40.956+01:00STILA LIPSTICK AND LIP LINER: A REVIEW <span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is one of the looks I created with my new Stila lipstick (Michaela) and glaze lip liner (Melon) from www.directcosmetics.com. I'd never used any products from Stila but had read fantastic reviews and seen some gorgeous looks created using them so was intrigued to try it out for myself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I kept the eyes neutral as I really wanted the lip colour to stand out. The lipstick packaging is really lovely - simple tube with hidden detail inside on the inner tube. Very moisturising feel with good coverage - the colour was much lighter than I was expecting and had more of a pinky tinge to it than it looks in the tube but I have fallen in love with the way it looks. The glaze lip liner looks great with the lipstick even though they are not a direct match or used all over the lips for a more intense look. I would definitely recommend the Stila lip products they feel very light on the lips and have a fantastic range of colours.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S7II3PTV8qw/UlFNfLRgoOI/AAAAAAAAAGI/YYMbDYuoAvk/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S7II3PTV8qw/UlFNfLRgoOI/AAAAAAAAAGI/YYMbDYuoAvk/s320/photo+(2).JPG" height="202" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-48757540540816841622013-10-06T12:36:00.000+01:002014-05-14T21:26:03.566+01:00INSPIRATION <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zaEUepx_hls/UlFLE4GwgCI/AAAAAAAAAF0/ztAof7f0UZ8/s1600/caterpillarproverb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zaEUepx_hls/UlFLE4GwgCI/AAAAAAAAAF0/ztAof7f0UZ8/s320/caterpillarproverb.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847266722024869667.post-19918338553261292732013-10-06T12:34:00.001+01:002014-05-14T21:26:42.649+01:00MINI MAKEUP HAUL <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tz3BOrg2hWg/UlFKNdnXjiI/AAAAAAAAAFs/fwk65Luc4EQ/s1600/tumblr_mp0km94F4g1sxw51yo1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tz3BOrg2hWg/UlFKNdnXjiI/AAAAAAAAAFs/fwk65Luc4EQ/s320/tumblr_mp0km94F4g1sxw51yo1_500.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; outline: none 0px;">I came across a website selling branded products for a sixth of the price, so I couldn't resist adding to my ever growing collection! (</span><a href="http://www.directcosmetics.com/" style="background-color: transparent;">http://www.directcosmetics.com/</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; outline: none 0px;">Here’s what I bought - Stila, Bourjois and Urban Decay, so excited to try these new products!</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; outline: none 0px;">Have any of you tried these products? What do you think? </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10155917060322956898noreply@blogger.com0