Five Habits I'm Trying To Adapt To

So you may have noticed I've not been around lately, I really wanted to but I was so stuck in a rut even the thought of getting out of bed was exhausting. So I decided not to force myself, not to fill my blog with posts about nothing that filled the void. I wouldn't want to read something that had no effort involved, a post just for the sake. It's like wearing a cocktail dress with sweatpants underneath, no one wants to see it and no matter how much you try to work it it's never going to look good. I wanted the time to think, and ask myself do I still want to blog, does this make me happy. 

After a holiday to Portsmouth, time with family and friends I realised I actual do missed this space. I also was inspired by seeing some absolutely awful humans, producing awful content because it lines their pockets and apparently being a mindless idiot is cool to some. I felt I owned the community one less idiot, someone who remembers how awesome it is to put out something useful .. dare I say it.. practical. If your struggling in a world where everyone seems to be dancing in sunflowers, looking like they sleep on a cloud of security all the while eating ice cream that doesn't drip down their hand the second they are given it. Then hang in there, you got this. You may do these already, if so and you have some other productive tips please let me know. 

Drinking More Water

Simple right. Wrong, if your not use to drinking lots of water it can feel like a massive effort. I put my hands up and say, that yes I would grab a fizzy drink then water or have a nice cup of tea. But after watching a heap of videos, on the benefits of drinking enough water every day I'm really trying to do better. Water helps aid sleep, reduces brain fog and anxiety. As you know I suffer with depression, and while water won't cure that it will help reduce a lot of the side effects of it. I've been drinking heaps over the last couple of months, and my skin looks better, I'm sleeping more and I just feel like I have a bit more energy. 

Good tricks are to either fill a reusable cup with water, and leave it in the fridge - I sometimes add berries or cucumber in for a little boost. Or have bottles of water in the fridge, I feel like if it's there I'm more likely to grab it then make a tea. Don't get me wrong, I'm still drinking my other drinks, but not as much. Your thirst will increase, but this is your body adapting to being hydrated. I never really thought about the fact, that before my body was struggling because of dehydration because what I was drinking wasn't helping me. Anyway give it a go, I promise you will notice a difference. 

You Don't Need Everything

This will always be an on going process for me, I'm a hoarder so letting go isn't easy. But too much stuff weighs me down, I don't need to have everything. I've managed to clear more, but I still have a way to go. It's starting to get a bit more manageable but I'm not there just yet. Sometimes it's worth going through everything you have, there are plenty of videos on You Tube on how people break down items to declutter. It feels great to have less, less to tidy, less to worry about. 

You can still have things, but when your living space is taken over by them or your adding a extra rail to your over flowing wardrobe it doesn't feel good. It's not a nice feeling when you have all this stuff and nothing to wear. So I'm selling, donating and recycling like my life depends on it. Why keep three pairs of jeans that don't fit, rather then getting rid and just having one pair you love. I'm starting to think more, and keep reminding myself that I want space I need space not stuff. It has got  little easier to let go, and I will keep at it. 

I love to sell on eBay, it's really easy and you would be surprised how much you can make from just a few seasonal items. I've sold coats I've only worn a handful of times, bags that were just gathering dust.  If you're worried about posting a large item then get yourself an  Ebay courier,  Shiply.com are wonderful they make the whole process a lot easier and take the stress out of those larger items you need gone.*

Trying to reduce my wardrobe - PS I still have over flow atm don't be fooled by this photo.

Waking Up Early When I Don't Have To

I think one of my issues was time, and never feeling like I have enough. Also not being able to sleep at night, usually knocks onto the day and on a day where I haven't got plans I end up feeling overwhelmed by my to do list. So I'm starting to get up more, yes sometimes I want to lay in and just sleep. But I know if I do that my sleeping pattern will slowly adjust into that routine. 

I want to try and do want I can so I can enjoy the day, not feel that I have to rush around. I've found getting up more, has helped me sleep more at night, some times I have the odd rough night. But usually I'm up and ready for the day, I feel like I have more time, more energy. If your struggling, set a gentle alarm to get you up it doesn't have to be crazy early but early enough that you feel you could have breakfast and do a bunch of other stuff. Your body clock takes three days to adjust, I found out and here I use to think that it would take me weeks. If your feeling rough, then try an afternoon nap instead. That why you have been up and had some day light, then laying in till the afternoon and seeing none. 

Sunflower in my grandads garden that I like to water.

Do It Now, Not Later

We all do it, the put off. Later, in a bit, oh that I'll do it tomorrow. Well it's two weeks later and it's still not done, and now you have a bunch of other stuff to do and you just want to curl up and cry but you can't because you will die under a pile of clothing. This is one I still struggle with, I have to really push myself to just  do it the moment I see it needs doing. 

Putting washing away, sorting through my things, finishing up a project. In some cases, it's not possible to get it all done in a day. But in most, if you break it down into more manageable pieces you can get it done. And after you can do what you like, because you were an adult and actual got your sh*t together. It's a great feeling, but one that you only get from not over thinking the task. Write it down if that helps, break it up into sections and make sure that you get at least one section done. You may find once you have done one bit, the next doesn't seem as bad and you might even get everything ticked off. But just remember now not later. Because later is your treat time to do what you like with. 

Go Out Even For Just A Short While 

When I'm low, I don't want to go out. I don't want to see people, and I don't want them to see me. The thing about that is, it does me no good staying in my rainbow cave. So lately even if it is for thee shortest time, I try to get out. To the shop, or even just to water my plants. I know for some of you this can be a mission, and feel like thee biggest task and sometimes it is. 

Getting up and getting dressed is not easy for everyone, I think people assume it is because they are doing it. But my lovelies even if it takes you a while, throw something on anything clown pants, that rudolph onesie you got for Christmas and just be outside even if it's for a short while. It will make a difference, remind you that there is a world out there that you are part of. Trust me I pushed through this one, greasy hair and no makeup give zero fu*ks because it wasn't for anyone but me. If it helps you get to better days, where you feel more yourself and want to stay out more, go further afield do it. 

Are there any habits your trying to adapt into your life? Let me know, I hope you all have a lovely weekend and I promise that I won't leave it so long next time. 

This is a sponsored post* 

A Day With Yellow Zebra Safaris

It's not every day you get to hang out with a barn owl and meerkats, so we were all really excited to join Yellow Zebra Safaris for a day of fun after receiving their email. While you can't go on safari in London, Yellow Zebra Safaris brought it to us on a smaller scale. Not only was it fun, but a very educational event. The boys were only expecting to meet a couple of animals, so were pretty gobsmacked by the array of animals our host brought to the event. Yellow Zebra offer Safaris, and while we weren't heading to Africa, it was lovely to experience a little of what they offer here in London. We would meet the animals, then have photos and then the kids could enjoy a ceramics workshop. 

What I've Been Wearing | April

I'm over on Instagram - @law1sfab

I don't know if you follow me on Instagram, but lately I've been trying to post all my daily outfits. I've done pretty well at keeping on top of it, as I think it helps me feel better about getting ready, as I can get very anxious about it and get stuck in my head. I feel it's pushing me a bit more, and I look forward to putting an outfit together. 

I'm trying not to wear the same things, and trying harder to fully enjoy my wardrobe. I have so many thrifted pieces, that I've not worn yet, so I feel like if they don't get worn then I'll be taking them back to the charity shop.  There's been so much going on lately, that I haven't been able to post my full outfits for a while now. It's not that I don't want too, it's either a case of having no time, or not having anyone to take them for me. So I thought just for now I would share what I've posted on there over here too, with a few extras as not everyone is on Instagram - shock horror I know and I've really been enjoying my wardrobe. So here's what I've been wearing, and maybe it may give you some inspiration for your spring wardrobe. 

 The thrifted outfit

I absolutely love green, but I've not found loads in the shops at the moment. And everything I have seen has not really been me. I was on eBay one evening and spotted these River Island leaf print jeans, I instantly full in love. I was all ready to buy them, but then I got distracted and forgot about them. The fashion gods were shining down on me, because I managed to bag these for a whole £1 at my local charity shop. I was so happy, as I was all ready to part with £20. 

Then on another trip I spotted this Mickey top, I love Mickey mouse and have a couple of tops that I've had forever. This one cost me £3 and I love it, I love the print and the big orange D. I've found some absolute gems lately, but I'm making sure that I drop some bits off as well as I'm still clearing out a heap of stuff. I paired this outfit with my Primark boots, I love these boots and they were well worth the £3 - Thank you january sell. You can't really go wrong with a tee and jeans, and I'm all about prints.   

The all pink outfit

That pink ruffled Monki top, when I saw it in the store I knew I had to have it. I hadn't treated myself to a new in a while, as I tend to thrift most of my wardrobe. I left it a while, but after going in for the third time and seeing it I decided it was worth it. I've worn it three times so far, and it makes me feel like a princess.

It's a stretch fabric and has all these ruffles, it's sheer but I prefer to wear a little tee underneath. It reminds me of Marie Antoinette you know the movie, remember back in 2006 when Kirsten Dunst looked like a bloody babe. Then I decided to team them with my £1 candy stripe jeans, also another charity shop bargain. I also managed to stick a chain on my Skinny-dip bag, so now instead of being a clutch that I'll only use once I have a across body bag I can use everyday. 

The will it be hot or cold outfit

Towards the end of this week I literally had no clue what to except, in London it has raining one second and and sunny the next. So jeans and a light top, were a good go too it wasn't too warm or cold so I threw on my rainbow cardigan and I had the perfect outfit. I love the lace on this top, and it had been a while since i had worn it. 

Of course I needed to add some rainbow into it, and my Tatty Devine rainbow necklace hadn't been out in a while. I love this necklace, it's so pretty the way each colour is cut and after doing a jewellery workshop with them I know how much skill and work goes into each one. My friend Emma give me these jeans, and I love them my last pair of ripped jeans fall apart as I wore them so much. I also made myself a earring stand, as I didn't realise just how many I had. It seems I have a pretty big collection, so this is so handy and I've started to wear them a lot more. I've had these star ones forever, but they are just so cute.   

The comfortable outfit

I have been living in these checked dungarees from Monki, I saw them on the sales assistant and literally fall over myself to go find them. I got them in a size up, so mine are a little loose but they are perfect and feel super comfortable. I know I look a little clown chef like, but hey clown realness is my vibe. I've seen a ton of people style these, and I think rainbow with them seems to be a winner. I think they are great for any weather, and are my go to when I want to look a little more put together without trying. 

I've had this pastel rainbow top a while now, and it's super soft. I go it from Aliexpress so it was cheap as chips, I try not to buy too many cheapy clothing as I know that it's not ethical. This is another big reason I love to thrift, and that way I know I'm giving a home to something that may have just been throw out. I know with tops like these, they will be in my wardrobe for years. So while cheap stuff isn't great, I know I will wear it to death and won't buy x amount because I have something i really love. 

Like I said I've started to wear my earrings a lot more now, since making the board. I think they are another way to dress this outfit up a bit more. Keeping it from looking super casual. Saying that I'm all about comfort, it's felt like thee longest week so it's a step up from pjs. 

The out shopping outfit 

It was so hot on  the weekend, and while I wasn't buying clothing I knew that if I was near a Monki I would go and try stuff on. Yes I know I'm obsessed with Monki, but honestly I feel like they are the only high street store that has stuff that appeals to me. I took a quick snap of my outfit that day, I was sweating like a pig - I know glamours right. But I finally wore my heart skirt, I got this back in January from Pretty little things sale and just haven't had the confidence to wear it.

I'm so glad it was roasting, as I knew I couldn't wear jeans. The top is by an old skull brand called Ringspun, which I managed to thrifted via eBay. I absolutely love it and wore it a lot last summer. I've been wearing all my old converse to death, and these pink ones are my go to at the mo. I really liked this outfit, and it feels good to tackle my BDD and not worry so much about what I look like.

Sadly I didn't have time to snap todays outfit, but I'm going to try and keep snapping until I can do a proper outfit post. I have some new bits and pieces, and I'm going to get back into sharing what I've thrifted for Spring. What has been your go to lately? I'd love to know.

Ice Watch | Can This Watch Change My Mind About Watches

I'm not really a watch person, don't get me wrong I've had watches and I have watches. There was a time - excuse the pun, when I wouldn't leave the house without one. I guess also I was in a job I loathed, and would check it nonstop as I couldn't wait for my shift to finish. After a while my watches went from being practical, to reminding me how much time I had to spend there. So after I left that job, I stopped wearing them. But really it wasn't the watches fault, watches are very practical still. Because lets face it,  who whats to dig through their bag however many times to find out what time it is. 

My other half is a watch addict, he has a full box and whenever a birthday or Christmas rolls around he will ask if I want a watch. If you have seen confessions of a shopaholic, his basically the guy in the therapy group who says 'you should buy a watch to go with that'. But I've always been on the fence about it, I've had a fair few but they have lost time - Which makes them just a chunky bracelet. Or the design was okay, but not something I really loved. 

Five Things | I'm Doing This April

The countdown is finally over, and the boys are filling the house with laughter, moaning, dirty socks and wrappers. We have some things planned, but I think we are all looking forward to being still and in one place. They are happy not to have to do work every day, I'm happy not to have to wrench them and myself out of bed for the school run. We have put up some bunny decorations, and the boys are looking forward to their egg hunt on Monday. So I thought about things I really need to happen this Easter, and thought I would share them. 

Making Time To pamper Myself 

One thing, that tends to go out the window when I’m stressed is my pampering. My hair just hangs from my head, and I tend to stick a hat on living that glamours life right. So this Easter I’m making sure that instead of a quick shower, or wash I’m making time for a creamy bubble bath at least. I’m going to do the same for the boys, I think they need time to relax too plus play time in the bath is a great way to wear them out before bed if you have been stuck in. 

So I’m making sure the bathroom is full of fun bath products, we have some Lush goodies which I'm so excited to try. As usually I stick to my favourites. I'm most excited for Bunch of carrots, they are such pretty colours and smell absolutely epic! They are a bubble bar, so you run them under the tap and they fill your bath with creamy bubbles. They have Sicilian lemon oil, which is uplifting and as I'm going to be running around after the kids I'm gonna that. We also have the Golden egg, as the boys said they wanted something sparkly and it's possible thee most glittery thing I've ever seen in my life. And how adorable are the free rangers, I love that this spilts in two. Of course this smells divine, it has blackcurrant absolute and it got the boys approval. I think making bath time more the main event, then just doing it to get clean will hopeful leave me more refreshed and clam. I also have some skincare, so that I go to bed or wake up feeling fresh and ready. 

Bunch of carrots bubble bars, golden egg bath ballistic , Here comes the sun shower cream, cream egg bath ballistic and free rangers ballistic *

Have A Spring Clean (but like actual do it)

I think everyone is probably getting their clean on, the clocks changed and we gained more light and all of a sudden you notice all the crap everywhere. I've been slowly trying to declutter, but I think over the next few days even for an hour I'm going to be tougher on getting rid of things. Sell, donate or bin all the stuff just needs to go. I feel like I want different things be some new clothing, homeware but how can I do that when there are all these things piling up everywhere. 

So I'm going to go room by room, and sort through it all. Even the kids have clothing that doesn't fit, toys that they have long grow out of and I feel like if I can tackle it now before the six weeks holidays we will all be able to breathe again. I've watched a bunch of You Tube videos, which has helped me with ways to sort and motive yourself. At the same time I need to remember to actual do it. 

Making Easter cakes

Logan asked if we could make some cupcakes. I do like a bit of baking, I prefer the decorating part. If your not big on baking, why not buy plain fairy cakes so you can decorate them how you want. I think it's a great way to past some time, and fingers crossed get something tasty to eat at the end of it. I picked up some box cake, to make it easy for them to follow. We have some white fondant, so I'm going to show them how to make a little bunny topper. The last bunch of cakes we made were at Christmas time, we also made biscuits so we are long overdue on doing some baking. 

Crochetterie by Molla Mills is a great crochet book for if your looking for something more alternative.

Getting back into crafting 

I've had such low energy lately, that all my craft projects aren't really going anywhere. Progress has been slow, and I've been losing focus to the point i question why I've started at all. It's felt like a chore, because I'm not giving myself enough time. It's easy to get into having a deadline for wanting to finish, while some projects need that enough time. I think regards my projects, I just need to organise them. From what will take the least amount of time, and what ones I can chip away at.

I feel like the boys are crafting less and less too. I think it's been an odd couple of weeks, the weather has been all over the shop. And while we have been out here and there, I will say I have been guilty of handing them their gadgets and grasping at any free moment. But I do miss making things, and seeing them create as they both have a big imagination. 

Thankfully you don't even have to brainstorm much any more,  there are a million craft ideas on Pinterest. But one of my favourite things to craft with are paper plates, you can cut out bunnies or make them into eggs. They don't cost much, you can also recycle them once you have made new things if you like. Kids can colour them, stamp them or stick stripes of coloured card or even colourful chocolate wrapping. But any crafts are just a good way of doing something together, especially on a rainy day. They are perfect to stop them becoming glued to their gadgets, and also mean I'm giving the kids my time while we do something fun . Also if you loath mess, colouring paper plates with colour pens are a great alternative to paints. 

Gadget free time 

This also include Baz and I, as well as our little darlings. Some times it’s easy to think your spending time together, when in reality your all casual checking a phone or iPad and not really focusing on what’s being said. I know this drives me nuts, when I think the kids aren’t listening. So I’m sure they feel the same when I have a phone in my face. While certain things need to be checked and done, I really want to make sure I'm getting a break from internet surfing. Before you know it half the day is gone. I've decided I'll crochet, maybe paint, go for a walk or just enjoy the moment. 

I hope you all have a great Easter if you celebrate, and i'd love to hear what your up too and if you have any plans. 

Latest In Beauty | March Mother & Daughters Box

March has been pretty stressful so far, a month filled with headache upon headache. It has finally settled well ish, as ironically this is the third time I've written this post as both my previous attempts failed to save. So if this goes live I'm going to take that as a win. 

As we all know stress doesn't leave much time for pampering, let alone self care. So I was so happy to see and try out this months Latest in beauty box- Mothers day box. As you may know I'm a mum of two boys, as a mum it's easy to forget your an actual human being. You are more then wrapper collector, laundry doer and decoder of 'I want something'. I was not disappointed at all, I actual didn't know where to begin. For £25 quid I had a box full of great self care products, bath oil, nail polish etc.. so I had a two day pamper session, where I would have relaxing baths and try them all out. They have a bunch of different boxes, and you can even make up your own which is great for if your giving it to someone. Building a box that's suited to you, or to the person your giving it to. 

February Favourites

I can't believe how quickly February is vanished, January was such a long struggle that  February felt like the actual beginning of the year. While it's still cold and grey here in London, I enjoyed this month I feel like I'm starting to get stuff done. It's been a little slow as I've been battling with my health again, but trying my best to get out and enjoy some family time again. While this weekend we didn't do anything, I was pleased to have some down time. I felt like death, so spent most my time in bed doing the odd bit of crochet while Baz took care of the boys who were happy to ignore everyone and play with their games and gadgets. We did manage to go to the farm a while ago, and enjoy a day or two out I think sometimes we all need a little push to go out. The half term wasn't thee most exciting, but I did enjoy time with the boys and I hope next time we get to do a bit more. March has been slow, but I took so much needed time out off society media and here just to be. So sorry this is way late and it's been quite here, but I'm looking forward to sharing a bunch of stuff and getting back into a routine. 

Nasty Gal SS18 Collection

Pot of gold top

I was about to say Spring is around the corner, which it is but looking out my window today it's snowing in London (well it was for all of 30 minutes). But anyway there is still plenty, in Nasty Gal's Spring summer collection to wear now. Rainbows, sequins and cow boy vibes are going to breath some life back into your wardrobe. This is a mere snippet of the collection, but these were pieces that really stood out to me. I already bagged the pot of gold rainbow top above, I swear 20% but really didn't even need any encouragement to buy it. I also can't believe how fast this collection is hitting the site already. They have a bunch of discount days going on, so if your like me and can't afford to go on a spree you can still bag a little bargain. So if your looking for some pieces for Spring, or you want to add a splash of fun to your wardrobe now you are going to love this collection.

The New Valentines

Faith Natural 'kiss' trainers* from Debenhams    

  

Once upon a time, valentines use to feel like thee most depressing day of the year. That if you were single, you were doomed and even if you were in a couple if you weren't drowning in a mass of chocolate, flowers and locking lips non stop you were doing it wrong. It kind of sucked the joy from the day, and I think put most people off celebrating it all together. 

Baz and I have been together 15 years, and we have never been massive on it. We would exchange ideas on things we liked, and never went crazy on gifting. One special present,  and a home cooked meal have made treasured memories. Like the time I blow out candles, and blow wax on Baz and burned him. Or going to noodle time in greenwich, and almost eating my hair. But weather your with anyone or not, valentines has had a makeover. I love that now Valentines is becoming less about couples, and seeing more people go out and celebrate their friendships or treat themselves is the way forward. So if you haven't treated yourself this year, then now is the perfect time to give yourself some love and go for it. You don't and shouldn't feel bad, being on your own is better then being with someone who isn't right for you.

My rainbow  Skinnydip clutch that Baz got me, my rainbow Nasty Gal top I treated myself to last month.

If you are loved up, then enjoy it. Yes we have all year to love someone, but Valteines can give you that little reminder to maybe just do something a little more. It doesn't have to be something major, often I think just having some real time together with good food, a relaxed atmosphere can be the one. 

Baz and I had decided to no gifts, but we both broke it and picked each other a little something up. I usually surprise him, but this year he surprised me first and I'd had a rough week it was lovely. Yep we didn't wait till the day, but we both needed a little pick me up. We are going to do a simple popcorn and movie night, as were both a bit under the weather for a proper date night. It's freezing here in London at the mo. Also my boys have informed me,  that it's also there Valentines days too so they will make me cards if I pick them up some chocolates. Honestly I had to try not to laugh, but they better be some nice cards, if they are getting a box each they already had the bath bombs I had treated the too. Still I'm thankful that they want to get involved.  

So whatever you decided to do this Valentines, I hope you have a fun one. I have some great memories of hosting  movie nights with my girls, and we would watch all the sloppy rom coms slag they off for being completely unrealistic and eat pizza. Making  my mum cards, eating half her chocolates and buying a plastic rose when I was a kid. And the first Valentines card I ever wrote, which was to my dog Fred because I hated everyone and I was only six. What are you up to this Valentines? 

What Does Girl Power Really Mean, & Are We Doing It Right

Girl power, GRL PWR, Feminist, Girl boss ... Do these words hold any value or have they just become a trendy status to slap on a t-shirt for brands to profit. Not that you would swing a cat, but if you could swing a plush cat .. that's better right a stuffed cat you would hit one of these buzz words scrolled across somewhere or someone. Do I like them, well yes and no. I want to believe they have a real meaning, but as time goes on I'm not sure anymore.

I mean what does girl power even mean anymore, I still have fresh memories, of being a teenager back in the 90s and arguing with friends who was what Spice Girl. I was Geri naturally -Looking back now, I realise this meant being a loud mouth, utterly bossy and entitled, but I loved her seemly unapologetic vibes. Girl power then was more to do with dressing how you want, but acting like a lad. It was all a little confusing and the word feminist seemed to be an outdated term, that the kick ass girls drinking pints didn't relate too. While I thought it was cool that girls weren't pretending not to fart or burp, it was still making us act in a certain way to be taken seriously and have our voices heard. It just reduced everything down to a joke. My questions now  are we really empowering each other anymore now, or is feminism still completely misunderstood. Is it really helping, or has the movement been overshadowed by peoples personal agenda of what they want it to mean. 

Makeup Revolution Bleeding Heart Baked Highlighter Review

As you may know, I'm a massive fan of Makeup Revolutions baked highlighters. Sadly my Goddess of love highlighter is dying, but she's given my face life on days I've looked like an extra for the walking dead. It's great on my dry skin, it's buildable and more importantly it's affordable. Also the packaging is just everything, I never get tried of picking up my heart shaped box. They have a wide selection of tones, to make anyones cheekbones pop. So tell your friends to grab their shades because there is a nice heart in town.

While I love Godless of love, that doesn't automatically mean Bleeding heart would be a fave. This highlighter has a pink tone, which for my pale skin I wasn't sure would work. I love the gold running through but again was unsure if on the skin it would pick up and look as good. I've been using a cool toned highlighter for so long, I think it's easy to get use to the same product and so after a while you don't even notice it. I'm not massive of having highlight that reflects the sun, but it's nice to have that option.

Building A Budget Friendly Palette | Makeup Obsession London Palette Review

New Year, new you right *goes to check bank balance. Okay maybe not. January seems to be forever and it's left us all a little light in the pocket. But sadly if you love makeup it's a fact we all face that around this time is the dreaded day. Yes the one where is expires, and you start to question how long you can keep it before you end up with a krusty eye. You purchased it in 2017 before everything went to hell, and you know what it got you through some tough times. Now it's time to say goodbye, I know it hurts trust me we have all been there but that not so winged liner and chalky won't even leave the pan shadow is not worth a visit to the doctors. Thank it for the great times, and get rid.

I seem to have run out of everything just after Christmas, so knew I was going to have to invest in some new products. I'd seen Makeup obsession London over on Instagram, and after seeing their customers wearing some gorgeous looks I thought I would check it out. I was really shocked to find you could purchase a pan for £2. But is the range worth buying, or are you better saving your money. 

BooHoo Spring Summer Collection 2018

I love high street fashion, and when I'm not thrifting I usually shop my old high street haunts.  Boohoo has always been in my wardrobe, they are affordable and they always do something a little more out there then a lot of the other high street brands. I have a sequin mermaid jacket from last year, which I will be breaking out again this summer. Every year I buy at least one dress from them, it's almost like a tradition- It's a fact if you have a girls night out, you are properly scrolling though their site and having to narrow it down to two out of the seven dress you have in your basket. They have always been a good allrounder. They have a wide range of products, so it's easy to shop all in one place. 

January Favourites

This month has gone on forever, maybe it's because of lack of funds it felt that bit longer. But I'm looking forward to February, and moving a little closer towards Spring  and seeing the sun a little more. Saying that january is always a busy month for me, I have my sons birthday, my mums, my birthday and we always remember Barrys dad on his birthday. So it can be a bit of an emotional one. 

Logan and I planted some daffodils last summer, and we were so disappointed that they didn't bloom as we were too late- as they are more of a spring plant. But this morning we spotted the tops of them, poking out through the soil. It made me smile, as this month hasn't been easy. If those little guys can survive the cold and wind, push there way through all that dirt then I can do the same. Push on and do my best to push myself to grow. Still I'm trying to pluck out the positives and all that jazz, and I do feel that I've had a productive month. I've managed to clear out a heap of stuff to the charity shop, and sell a couple of bits so my hoard is on it's less legs and I'm sure I will push myself even more come February. I thought I would start doing my favourites every month, something that I can stick too also it's nice to reflect.

Things I'm Ditching To Save Money In 2018

Rainbow flowers my friend sent me for my birthday, which made my January and remind me to keep motivated.

I was going to write a bunch this month, but I got some awful news that I'm still processing. At the same time it shook me hard, so I took some time out. But I'm trying my best to get back into a normal routine, and I'm lucky to have amazingly supportive people around me. So I wanted my first post of 2018 to be a good one, and if like me your year has already kicked off to a not so great start then I hope this may help you a little. Maybe it will get you thinking about how you can redirect your money, and put it towards something you want or need.  I'm starting to think more, to what I can do and how I'm going to reach my goals realistically. So what is my big change this year, and how am I going to get the much needed cash. 

My Last Thrifted Piece Of 2017

Welcome to 2008 style photos, at least you can see how cute this coat is! I spotted it looking all grubby at the charity shop, and left it. I'm the first to admit I have an unhealthy obsession with coats, ( Baz also got me one for Christmas) but then I couldn't stop thinking about it. I had been three times and each time told myself I didn't need it. But after seeing it a fourth time and dropping off a mother load of things I didn't want I decided enough was enough and it was coming home with me. It cost me £3! I took my flash wipes and give the whole thing a good wipe down, these literally kill any germs and   it looked brand new - it has a bit of mud on the front that took all of a second to remove.  I took the button hood off and added my big fluffy scarf, as it's been forever since I've worn this bad boy. 

Girls That Game: Life Is Strange On PS4 #girlsthatgame

One evening when I had just completed Uncharted 4, and was left with that sort of high followed by that awful 'what do I play now' feeling. So went into full on seek mode to fill the void, hours of looking through my favourite gamer channels followed by some must play lists. Then chatted with some twitter friends, a pattern quickly formed and the same title kept appearing. I know it's from way back in 2015, but sometimes certain games get over shadowed by the same repetitive titles. I'm not even sure where to begin, because I've never felt like this about a game. Firstly no spoilers are here what so ever. I loath them, and I would never ruin your gaming experience. At the same time I can't not talk about this game. So wanted to give you a  honest review, without giving it away. 

Life Is Strange: Before The Storm has just been realised (not for Mac users sadly) and I wasn't ready to play it to be honest after just finishing the game. But they are just games right, anyone who has played this DONTNOD Entertainment master piece could never agree with that. So how has this company made what I can only describe as a cult classic in gaming.  

I decided to play the demo, which I would always recommend. As we all play differently and you may just not be into it. This goes for all games, and will save you a lot of money as there are some rubbish games out there. I play on the PS4, but like with Bioshock this game was designed for pc. Saying that I found this game to flow well, and I  didn't feel it took away from the experience. I wasn't sure what to except, so went in blindly. I think I was quick to react the way I would with a first person, and this is completely different. This game is choice based, and at first leads you to believe that it's going to be basic. 

While other games are aiming to be as HD as possible, Life is strange is more like walking into a painting. The design of this game is beautiful, there are little details everywhere and it's easy to miss them. I would say slow down and take your time, because that what's this game is all about. The theme is the butterfly effect and how all actions have consequences. The walk through is smooth, and I got to grips pretty quickly with what I could do. The game is split into five episodes, this is where it becomes more then just a game for me. It's a story almost film like, as it takes you on a journey learning about yourself and the people around you.  

You play as Max who has moved to bay to study photography, I absolutely love that you get to take photos in this game. It's very subtle at drawing you into Max's world, and seeing things from her perspective. But as in real life, one perspective is not the whole story. It's not long before Max finds she has the power to rewind time. It sounds easy, you say the wrong thing, rewind. You find yourself in a tricky place, rewind. But and this is a massive but, the rewind symbol which is above will soon come to haunt you. As you get to know Max and her relationship with others, it's easy how invested you become with them. And it soon becomes clear that these seemly throw away actions, will lead to the bigger picture.

A picture that's going to make it harder and harder for you to decide! Overall I absolutely loved this game and would recommend it to anyone, no matter which games you prefer to play. It's just so different and magical, it allows you to really care about the characters. I know not everyone was crazy about the ending, I did feel that starting off on such a high was going to be hard to top. I can't wait for the new year, as I've decided it's time to start Before the Storm, it's going to be odd not having Max's powers but also will make for a more intense choice as that's it no rewind.  The only negative I have to say about this game, was that it wasn't longer honestly I could have played this game for a whole other chapter. Also that I will probably never forgive the makes for the final decision you have to make *no spoilers.

So if your looking for something new to play, I would put this at the top of your list if you haven't already. If you like this game then I would suggest Until Dawn and Heavy Rain, both amazing games that are choice based. Have you played this game, what did you think about it? Have you started Before the storm, do you think it can compare to Life is Strange, I would love to know your views. 

2017| What To Remember When Your Years Been 'Meh'

              Causally throwing in my Instagram photos, because Instagram ( @law1sfab ) hate us all and we have to remind ourselves it still exists.

I've felt flat this year, not going to lie. While it feels that everyone is getting their shit together, I feel like I've taken steps backwards. I think it's easy to feel that you should be ticking boxes off every month. While living your best life sounds simple on paper, it's actual pretty draining trying to work hard, play hard and really enjoy it like that's the whole point right. It's easy to feel you pour yourself into work, and no one cares if your there or not be it in blogging, retail, office or even with your own business . Not having money or energy to play at all, just adds in to the cycle of feeling rubbish. Maybe you have lose a job, and that can bring your once vibrant life to a stand still. 

So where are the positives, where is the sliver lining. while I don't feel I've knocked it out the park this year, I'm not going to pretend that 2017 was a 'meh' year. Because while everyone was off living their best lives, I thought but that's not your life. It got me thinking more into my personal growth, and while to an outsider I may have achieved nothing I've made some huge changes that have started to impact my life for the better. 

Learning to love yourself is the biggest achievement of them all-

Okay so if you have read my blog for a while, you will be aware I have Body Dysmorphic disorder. If not Hello I'm Law, and my brain tells me to hate myself and causes me anxiety and depression, I know fun right. But looking around and reading others posts, watching videos on You Tube it seems a lot of you struggle with the big L word when it comes to yourself. This year I think I've tried to stop my nagging doubts, reminded myself that if I'm happy in my skin that's all that matters. This year I have spent less time in mirrors, worrying that an outfit doesn't look right. My bed has not been filled with my wardrobe because I've had a melt down so badly I can't leave the house. I've confidently left the house without makeup, as someone who's main trigger is my acne skin this for me was huge. It's taken time, I've had to remind myself daily that I'm me and I'm worth loving.  

Maybe you wore something you never thought you would this year, maybe you looked in the mirror and smiled. Maybe you spent more time out with people, then feeling that you weren't worth their time. You may have had bad days, but maybe this year your good days out weighted the bad in a long time. Maybe you felt proud of something, that usually you wouldn't have acknowledged before. If your at the start of this journey then make 2018 the year you give yourself a break, and embrace who you are. Because having confidence in yourself and not needing others approval is priceless. 

You don't need to earn me time -

This is one of thee biggest changes I'm still making, and it's not just because I'm a parent is having time for myself is SO important, and I do not have to earn it. When you think about it, like really think about it why should I have to complete days worth of tasks to have an hour of doing something fun. I think it's so easy to feel like your not doing enough, and that you have to ram every second with something 'productive'. When in reality your half doing jobs because your fed up. 

So while we all have stuff that has to get done, take some time for you. Be it a fancier lunch if your having a crap day at work, doing something creative if crafting brings you joy. Maybe going for a walk if you have been glued to a screen all week. The list goes on, just think about what makes you feel good and just do it. No I'll just do these 50 other tasks first. It's your life and you don't have to earn time to just be in this world.

Slow Progress is still progress-

It's only natural to compare, but I've found that sometimes I can be so busy worrying that I'm not doing as much as others I literally stop what I was doing. Personal my progress has been going from a hoarder to minimalist, while I won't be living in a white cube with one pair of shoes I am determined to reduce what I have and love what I have. When I say slow progress I mean slow, so far it's taken almost three years to downsize everything I have. But space is opening up, and I'm able to let go of things I have no love for. I've started to paint again, and feel more creative. 

Maybe your progress is at work, maybe it's saving up for something, maybe it's learning something new. It can be anything, maybe it's dealing with your mental health, or over coming a fear. Whatever you have started it may feel like your going no where, but it doesn't have to be instant. Progress is progress, and you should embrace that your moving forward. If your struggling with it, maybe set yourself a smaller goal. 

It's okay to remove toxic people from your life-

So this won't be for everyone, but I'm sure everyone has that one person who leaves them feeling like crap or drains your metal energy. This is something that took me a life time to learn, and when I think about thee amount of toxic people I had around me in my twenties I what to scream. I think when we think of being a nice person, it means having everyone in your life no matter how they impact upon your day to day. It can be really hard to cut people out, because you love them and believe that they can change and will grow. Sadly in most it's not going to happen, so rather then dancing around your issues, broken trust etc sometimes it's best to part ways. It doesn't have to be in an aggressive way, for me it was a case of removing myself from their lives. I now feel more relaxed, and I don't have the constant nagging that they are going to cause me upset. It may not be easy, but honestly once you have you will notice a massive change. 

Maybe it's someone online, someone who leaves a horrible comment all the time just  block those negative vibes because life hard enough without a complete stranger telling you your not worthy. I've found this year I've engaged less with people hell bent on dragging others down. Rather then argue about nothing, I tend to just put down my phone and remind myself that some people will always be ignorant. So if you have managed to cut out toxic people from you life, then know that your doing right by you. 

These are just some of the things I try to remind myself of, and who knows what 2018 will bring. I hope that we all have a better year, a year filled with time for fun and more excitement. A time were instead of worrying what others are doing, we create are own goals about living YOUR best life. 

Have you had a 'meh' year. What's your reminder to yourself?