Catch up

Oh, my God. I honestly didn't realise how long it'd been since myself or Amy have blogged, I feel so bad for neglecting it! I think though, that we have both been wayyy too busy to blog, especially on a schedule. I know that I can barely keep on top of schoolwork let alone running a blog as well and that's really sad... Sigh. Anyway, I don't now about Amy but I just try and keep as regular as I can because I miss blogging! Moving on, I'm going to fill you in;

1: School

I feel like I'm actually doing okay in school at the moment? Which is something I never thought I'd be able to say... My grades are pretty decent; A in Maths, A* in English (Literature and Language), Bs in Science, A in Media and pretty much Bs in everything else... I'm pretty happy with that! My school just recently had a mock week and it was the first time I actually tried, in previous mock weeks I had obviously tried but this time I really revised and it paid off! (I managed to get an A in Biology!) Despite my grades at the moment, I'm dreading exams as I have a feeling panic will overwhelm me and affect my grades massively... I really hope that's not the case but if I try my best then I guess that's all I can do?

2: College/ Sixth Form

In three months I officially leave secondary school! I honestly cannot wait, I'm really looking forward to it, not because I don't enjoy school (well, I don't enjoy the amount of stress and pressure it brings a long with it), but because I can't wait to be studying subjects that I love in more depth and being able to focus on them. I'm not 100% on where I'm going on what I'm taking yet but I've applied to a lot of place to keep my options open, but I think I might stay onto to do sixth form at my school as I they have the courses I want, I like all the teachers, plus there's an underlying sense of security and comfort which is always a good thing. Wherever I go, I' going to be taking either 3 or 4 A-levels; if I were to stay at my school to do sixth form, if possible, I want to take English Literature, Media Studies, Maths and Creative Writing. However, if I go to a college then I think I will be taking English Literature, Media Studies and Photography! I love all of the subjects previously mentioned and I'm looking forward to furthering my love and knowledge for them!

3: Life

So much has happened in the past few months... I've come out of a very long relationship, Amy has begun a hopefully long-lasting one, Amy finalised her decision to move back with her Mum in Redditch, we've both argued more time than we care to remember, I've fallen out with numerous and let a few go for good... Not going to lie, I'm not a person who particularly likes change but that's something you just have to go with as there's nothing you can do to stop it; change is inevitable. I know for a fact that I in myself have changed massively, especially in the past year, I'm not going to specify how as that's not really important nor is it relevant. I can feel myself changing everyday and growing, hopefully into a better person, I'm becoming less jealous and envious of others and becoming more confident in myself, I'm nowhere near actually have a sustained confidence in myself but you've got to start somewhere. I haven't been very happy lately as I've really been let things get to me and that's really not anyway to go about life so I think I'm finally beginning to ignore people who are thoughtless and selfish and focus on the people who care and aren't afraid to express love or clarity - those people are the ones you should surround yourself with, not the people who hurt you purposely or try to make you feel stupid or bad or put you down or anything that has a negative affect on you. Those people are not worth your time. I always let others affect how I feel and that's really not necessary - YOU are the only person who can control your feelings and emotions, no one else has the ability to do so. So if anyone, even if it's your best friend, is being small-minded or arrogant or patronising or anything that's making you feel down, pick yourself back up and remember that you are the better one.

Okay, so I kind of went on a bit of a tangent there but I definitely feel better now!  Here's a quote that On that note, here's a quote I feel very apt;

"Why not just say goodbye to the bad things? Say goodbye to all the times you felt lost. To all the times it was a no, instead of a yes. To all the scales and bruises. To all the heartache. Say goodbye to everything you really want to do for the last time."

Megan x

MERRY CHRISTMAS

So I guess we kind of failed the whole blogmas thing.. there's always next year, eh? Anyway, we just wanted to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and we hope that you get what you wished for and have a fab day!

Lots of love,

Megan & Amy x

BLOGMAS DAY NINE: WISHLIST

Unfortunately there are many items that I am yet to own, over on my wishlist but here are a few of my favourite things;

Rimmel Lasting Finish Kate Lipstick, Shade 30

This shade is so beautiful, I feel as though it's the perfect shade for Winter, it's a mixture of berry red and fuchsia, soo nice! Plus I adore the finish of these lipsticks.

Clear Acrylic Make- Up Organiser

This is what it says it is, you really can't go wrong with it! I just think that it's a really nice alternative way of storing your make-up and it goes with any colour scheme - bonus!

Pretty Honest: The Straight-Talking Beauty Companion (Hardback)

I've had my eye on this for a while and now I'm just anxious to get my hands on and read all about Sali Hughes' beauty secrets etc. This book would be perfect for any beauty/skincare lover.

Eye Starter Kit, Real Techniques

I am in dire need of some new eyeshadow brushes and since hearing so many great reviews about these particular ones, I though I'd give them a try! I've used quite a few of these brushes before and really like them.

Deep Red Faux Fur Throw

I'm re-decorating my room with a grey and dark red colour scheme and since I love faux fur, I saw this and fell in love! It's so beautiful and soft :( I wanttttt!

Kurt Geiger Star Boots

If you happen to know me well, (lucky you oo) then you will be familiar with my obsession with boots, specifically black ankle ones.. These one are just stunning, but unfortunately are a little out of my price range :( One day, eh?

What things are the top of your wislist right now?

Megan x

BLOGMAS DAY EIGHT: LIST OF THINGS I WON'T EVER OWN ENTITLED 'WISHLIST'

Everyone has a few things they wish for over Christmas, don't they? What I have done is I made an online wishlist at Wishlistr, it is super easy and you can add links to everything you want! I have found that this way, I can give the link to my Mother as she was stuck for what to get me for Christmas! I also will find it satisfying to cross things off if they're received as gifts or if I buy them.

Samsung Galaxy S5 
I have had a Blackberry for two years now and it just doesn't do what I would like it to do! This phone is my dream phone as I just think it is stunning and does everything you could want and more! I know this is a rather expensive presents and I've never asked for something so expensive before which is why I do not expect I would get one. Though. if I open this present, I may cry...

A new coat
There are so many coats I want!! From Black to Camel to Grey... I want them all! I really like the 'Coocoon' style at the moment, along with the 'Boyfriend' and maybe throw in a biker jacket, eh? I am most likely not going to get any, so in the sales I'm going to have to pick up a couple aren't I?

Chunky Heeled Chelsea Boots 
Chelsea Boots go with almost everything and are a staple I do not currently own, as I love chunky heels, then it makes sense to mix the two together... These two make the perfect pair of boots and Newlook sell them for as little as £24.99!

Onesie
I have never owned a onesie and I feel deprived, there are so many I want but this one is just adorable! I always get Pyjamas in my stocking so maybe I'll get a onesie this year!

Real Techniques Brushes
I currently only own two, I want to build my collection up, I want the Powder Brush, Core Collection, Eye Starter Kit and the Lash-Brow Groomer. After that I can start to get more and more until I have them all, Wooo!

MUA LUXE
I have to say, their products aren't exactly renowned for their quality, but I have heard great things about the LUXEs. With high staying-power and pigmentation, leaving a matte finish they're everything I've been looking for in life. For £3, you can't go wrong, can you? I may buy myself the whole collection as there isn't a shade I don't like!

So they're just a few of the things, some on my Wishlistr, some not!

What are you hoping for this year?

Amy
x

BLOGMAS DAY FIVE: FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS FILMS

Christmas films: you either love them or you hate them. I, personally, love them, they're so happy and everything ends happily! What more do you want for the supposed 'season to be merry'. Some of my favourites have to be:

Annabelle's Wish 
For those of you who have not watched this film, it is basically based around the old legend that Santa Claus gives animals the ability to speak on Christmas Eve. Annabelle is born on Christmas Eve and upon meeting Santa she is fascinated by the Reindeer and their abilities to fly. She befriends the Farmer's Grandson who is mute due to a fire on the farm. When Annabelle gives up her ability to speak, Billy gets it permanently. When Billy marries, Annabelle's wish is granted, she is now one of Santa's Reindeer and re-gains her ability to speak in the process. I love this film because it is just so warming and it was always my favourite growing up! I remember owning it on video and getting so excited when watching it!

It's a Wonderful Life
I haven't actually watched this for years so am a little unsure of the plot off the top of my head. I just remember my Mum loving it, and one year my Brother buying her the black & white and coloured version... I watched it and soon came to realise why my Mother loved it so much!

Home Alone 1&2
I just love these with with MC in, I feel that when they changed the characters it kind of lost it's touch a bit. It always confuses me as to how you can leave a child at home, and to then do the same thing again? You should learn from your mistakes!!! Rant over, I just love this film and it always makes me laugh...

The Holiday 
This has to be the cutest film! I actually only first watched it fully a few months ago, but I'm so glad I did! It's just so cosy and makes you jealous as to why you don't live in such a cute cottage at this time of year! Dammit life.

Serendipity 
I only watched this for the first time the other month, but it is so cute! It makes you annoyed slightly though, as to how close they are to each other, yet keep missing one another. It contains all the stereotypical things to do in the Holiday's puts you in a rather festive mood.

I have many more, I just can't put my finger on them right now! What are your favourite Christmas films then?

Amy

x

P.s. Sorry this is a tad late, completely forgot!!!

BLOGMAS DAY FOUR: NOVEMBER FAVOURITES

Throughout the month of November I haven't been loving an awful lot but here are some of the few things that I have been enjoying..

YSL Crème De Blush in Shade 1 - This is such a gores product and if I'm honest, blusher has always scared me in the past, especially cream ones! But it's so easy to apply and it's such a pretty colour, quit peachy with a hint of coral - not usually want I would go for in the Wintertime but I felt that my face needed that extra something as it was looking so dull. It stays on all days and has a lovely sheen to it - I may be tempted to try some more cream blushes..

Lancôme Colour Design Golden Frenzy Palette - Oh. My. God. This is such an amazing product and so suitable for this tie of this year - I really cannot express my love enough for tho palette! IT has five colours in; a matte brown, a dark glittery goldy/brown, a shimmery gold, a cream glitter shimmer and a dark grey, almost black shimmer. It's solo beautiful and I keep using this to create the perfect Christmassy look.

Real Techniques Stippling Brush - I've owned this for nearly a year now and have only just started to really use it, god knows why - it's fab! It gives an even coverage from light to medium (buildable) with a liquid foundation and is so easy to blend in with.

Garnier Miceller Water  - I purchased this a couple of weeks a go and I absolutely adore it! It takes my face and eye make-up off very easily and leaves my skin looking and feeling extremely nice. Such a bargain as well!

Fairy Lights - I just think that fairy lights are perfect for around this time of year and add a touch of christmassy excitement to everything! (is that even a thing??) They make everything so cosy and pretty - you really cannot go wrong, especially not with the warm white ones! Soooo festive!

Festive Bakewells - You can't get much more festive than with these. Just your average bake well tart here from Mr. Kipling but topped with different coloured balls in different festive shades. The normal Cherry Bakewells are amazing but festive ones? My new favourite treat by far.

America's Next Top Model, Cycle 21 - Okay, so it's no secret that I'm a tad obsessed with this program but especially this cycle! (and the last one, oops) It's so entertaining whilst incorporating the industry and everything else fashion/model related into it - could I ask for more?

Taylor Swift - I've fallen back in love with Taylor Swift.. I haven't binge listened to her music in a about year but in the past month she's pretty much all I've been listening to.. And she's brought out a new album which is amazingggg! I love her not only her and her voice but also her songs are so intricately written and perfected, so beautiful.

Turns I actually had a lot of favourites this month.. my bad. What things have you been loving this past month?

Megan x

P.S wow.. we're already behind, typical us, sorry!

BLOGMAS DAY THREE: NOVEMBER FAVOURITES

It's day threeeeeeee! I can't even comprehend how happy that makes me! We haven't really done a Favourites Post for a month or two, and as we're in that Blog-ey/ Christmas-ey spirit we thought 'why the hell not?' I'm not actually too sure how many I have, I've planned a couple,  but I'm hoping they come to me whilst writing. Okay, So I'm gonna get on with it as I'm just rambling on at the moment, woops.

Beauty
Forever Living Bee Propolis Creme - This works like a miracle... No word of a lie. I had this weird red, itchy dry patch of skin on my right arm, and for years I didn't know what it was, I had tried everything: extensive moisture, any product I could find online, etc. My Mother has a business called 'Bee Forever You' in which she sells the Forever Living products (shout out to my Mum because why not). She had this product which has been known to dramatically help Eczema, Acne and with one of her other products even Psoriasis, so me willing to try anything gave it a go, within two weeks, if that, it had all gone. It is so fab, I did stop using it and notice it coming back, but with continued use, it worked, and really worked. If you want any more information on Bee Propolis Creme or any other Forever Living product, you can E-mail me, or go to https://www.facebook.com/beeforeveryou

Forever Living Aloe Lips - So as some of you may know, I'm a bit of a lip balm junkie (sorry not sorry), and Forever Living do a lip balm, and it is the nicest lip balm I have ever used, no word of a lie... It really nourishes your lips and stays balmy on them for a while... It comes in a stick so that's always a good thing. I love it so much that I have even gone and bought some off my Mum for my friends for Christmas... Also you can contact me or go to the link above for details and ways to buy etc.

Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 Hour Foundation - Guess who got Acne? Me, lol. The name 'Vulgaris' really is quite fitting. Got a wee bit sidetracked there.. My bad. Anyway, the extra dash of coverage within this foundation really helps, being a full coverage foundation means that I can hide behind it and pretend I'm flawless (you should try it, it's great). This foundation really is fab, it does last ALL day, I haven't tried it for 25 hours, but I have but it on at 7am and taken it off at 2 and it still look good. With other foundations I've used in the past I've found they don't agree with my nose and they seem to depart, leaving me looking like Rudolph. With this one, though it's Christmas, this isn't the case, and I'm super happy I have this foundation in my life.

Real Techniques Stippling Brush - Since Christmas (last year) I was always using my Expert Face Brush I soon wanted a change and in the Summer I became the proud owner of the Stippling Brush up until last month I was always scared to use it as it is supposed to create a lighter coverage, I don't feel that was the case. I feel it leaves my face looking airbrushed and lovely, also the brush looks cool. I would highly recommend this brush it's just fab.

Johnsons Baby Shampoo - I always knew you should was your brushes regularly otherwise its vile and just no. Yet only like a month or two ago I started doing it as regularly as once every 1-2 weeks, what I use is simply just this and some warm water... It's so effortless to wash your brushes regularly and with this shampoo it doesn't have any harsh chemicals to harm your bristles. Also, if you're as clumsy as me, it's 'no tears', so even if you have a 'blonde moment' and slip getting it into your eye, it won't make you cry, it's the injuries that'll do that for you!

Food (yay)
Quorn Scotch Eggs - So as of the 24th of October I became a Pescitarian, I have had plenty of Quorn products in the past but these are by far my favourites (hence why they're here). For those of you who do not know what Scotch Eggs are, they're little balls off egg bits, covered in sausage meat (in this case Quorn and topped off with bread crumbs! They're super delicious and as I refer to them (only in my head, shush) 'Little Balls Of Happiness'.

Onion Bhajis - Everyone needs a little Bhaji in their lives, I mean, I may be spelling it wrong but lets hope not. I'm fussy when it comes to buffets. as I hate having food that other people may have touched, so I'm picky with them, and sandwiches are a no-go, but Bhajis, well they're always taken, because they're fab.

Music
Arctic Monkeys - When The Sun Goes Down - Please don't ask me why, but this song always cheers me up, maybe it just reminds me of when I was younger at my Mum's, I do recall Oliver being an Arctic Monkeys fan? Maybe, I don't know. It came out 2006 so I would have been 7? Yeah, that makes sense!

So, they're November's favourites from the top of my head, what are yours?

Here's the link again to Bee Forever You: https://www.facebook.com/beeforeveryou
And my E-mail: amykayyspencer@gmail.com

TWENTY ONE DAYS

Amy

x

BLOGMAS DAY ONE: CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST

So everybody has the songs that are incredibly over played without noticing, or they loathe at this time of year. Most, intact, all Christmas songs are over-played and you can walk from store to store and hear the same song ten times in different stores. I have my personal favourites and Michael Buble tends to occur an awful lot in my playlist, so here goes nothing.

Michael Buble 'Christmas' (Baby Please Come Home)
This has to be one of the greatest songs to come on in the car at Christmas. I have to admit, when it does, I erupt into song, much to my Father's discontent.

The Pogues feat. Kirsty MacColl 'Fairytale Of New York' 
Oh my, this song, this song has always been my all time favourite Christmas song. It's just so lovely to listen to, it almost makes you unwilling to sing along, which is rare for me!

Bing Crosby 'White Christmas' 
Isn't this song just marvellous? It makes you feel all warm and cosy inside and this is definitely a great one to sing to. I'm rather amused by how low my own voice can get to...

Gabriella Cilmi 'Warm This Winter'
Now this brings back memories! I don't know whether any of you reading this read any of our Blogmas' from last year? We both sang this at the Christmas Concert held at out school. This song is so lovely and cosy and her voice is amazing!

Band Aid 'Do They Know It's Christmas Time'
Yet another that brings back memories! So, a few years ago I had a solo singing this and we had to perform it in front of all of the school eating their Christmas Dinners... Turns out I get stage fright in front of people I know, so mid-line I froze and erupted into tears... Not my brightest move I have to admit. The reason I chose the original over the new one is I think you cannot beat this version, for me I think that the sound of George Michael (and other of course) this really makes Christmas and I doubt that will change anytime soon! But y'know, hats off to the other versions!

Andy Williams 'It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year' 
Well isn't this just amazing? This song always makes me smile and happy, it's just one of those songs! It gets you ready for Christmas and it's just a classic.

Bing Crosby 'It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas'
This song is so cute! I love it, and I guess that's why it's on here? Obviously.

Shaking Stevens 'Merry Christmas Everybody'
Now this just screams Christmas, and Shaking Stevens? Well, need I say more? I think not.

Slade 'I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday' 
I did used to want it to be Christmas everyday, until I realised the charm would wear off and it would be very expensive, also, what would you look forward to then???

Wham 'Last Christmas' 
This song is so fab! It's great sing really loudly to, and it's one of those you can't sound too bad with, so perfect for me! Woopwoop!

So they were my top 10 Christmas songs! What are yours?

I have also created a Spotify playlist of all of these songs and I'll leave the link below if you want it, I will most likely keep adding to it as the month progresses...

Christmas Playlist

Amy

x

INTRODUCTION TO BLOGMAS

It's that time of the year again! Wooopwooop, I don't think I can explain how happy that makes me!

So for this year's Blogmas we have a basic schedule that I would leak to you, but then again we're going to end up not sticking to it, so I feel it would be a waste and letting ourselves down, like, if we keep it to ourselves we can pretend we haven't failed, but when it's exposed, well, then it gets bad.

We will try and keep alternating with posts like last year, with the occasional joint post!

Is there anything in particular you would want to see? Whether it be a makeup tutorial or a baking post? Ideas welcome below or you can always tweet us etc!

Thankyou and Merry Christmas

Amy

x

SEPTEMBER FAVOURITES

It's been a while since we've done one of these posts, December I do believe. We're just going to share some of our favourites from the past months, not in any particular categories, just anything we've been loving recently! Comment what you've been loving this month below!

AMY:

Simple Triple Action Face Wash - I cannot explain how much I've been loving this product! It has helped clear up my skin an awful lot. This is face wash (obviously) with little micro particles that act as an exfoliant, but it's not too harsh as the micro particles are fairly sparse. I use this in the shower usually and find that for best results you should use a flannel or something to open your spots first, when I've done this I genuinely got amazing results by the next day. I'm not saying it clears up everything, but it certainly tackles your ripe ones! Definitely go out and buy it!

TRESemme Keratin Smooth Shampoo - I've always loved TRESemme and when I lived at my Mum's we always had it, the smell always makes me happy and reminds me of my childhood. I bought this one on a bit of a whim, I was in ASDA and was after the Platinum Strength one as my hair was in such bad condition and my Mother recommended that one to me, but next to it was the Keratin Smooth and was half price at just (insert pound sign)2.50 so I decided to give this one a go as it's claims seemed promising. At the moment my hair is a nightmare and it frizzy and horrible, and since I've been using this product it's not even close to being as bad as it was. I'm also going to give the conditioner a whirl when mine runs out! Well done TRESemme!

Garnier Ultimate Blends The Sleek Restorer - I teamed this with my Keratin Smooth and oh my, they got on like a house on fire. My hair had never felt or looked good before. It's for dry/ frizzy hair, my hair isn't dry, but it's most certainly frizzy. As I don't use this on my roots I figured that a kit of moisture wouldn't hurt (and it didn't). Honestly, I can't rave about these two products enough, they've done wonders for my hair! It's still not in the best condition, but it's a hell of a lot better! It was cheap too! just (insert pound sign)2! Thank you Garnier!

Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation - Oh my goshhhh, I know I'm late to this bandwagon, but I can certainly see why everyone was loving this. The coverage is fab, the scent is fab, the price is fab, it's just fab okay. If you're looking for a drugstore foundation with good coverage, zero SPF, a lovely scent that's easy to apply, the look no further, this is what you're looking for. It's only like (insert pounds sign)10 and is so worth it.

Rimmel Wonder'full Mascara - This mascara is great, it is enriched with argon oil so it cares for your lashes whilst making them look fab. It has an 'Ultra Flex Brush' and gets zero clumps. I don't wish to say too much on this as I may do a review on it if i get the chance, but I like it, go buy it if you're looking for a mascara with all of what I've mentioned!

Hospital For Souls by Bring Me The Horizon - Oh my goodness, I absolutely love this song, no matter what mood I'm in this song will always improve it. I lost my earphones for a long time, and when I got them back, I was walking home and this song blasted through them. I don't even thing I've ever been more content with life at that moment. If you haven't heard it, then go and listen, you surely won't regret it.

Maple and Pecan Plait - You can buy these from LIDL for like 50p and they are the most amazing things ever, honestly, I can't explain how fab they are. Pop over to your nearest LIDL and get one, I mean not if you have a nut allergy or something, but other than that, you have to try them.

MEGAN:

Black Structured Bag from H&M - I managed to persuade my dad that a new big bag was a necessity for school and carrying revision guides etc. around, (it kind of was to be fair..). My old bag was from Urban Outfitters, it wasn't small but it wasn't particularly big either and I couldn't fit my lunch, water, hairbrush, charger, school planner and school books in there so I was having to carry my school books around in my hands, meaning I forgot them a lot and left them places, (I've managed to lose my English book twice this year already and we've only been back a month.. oops). Anyway I was in H&M and I saw this beautiful black bag with a fake crocodile design on it, and the best thing about it? It's basically a mini suitcase! I'm pretty sure it's bigger than me? Oh well haha, I love it anyway and it was only thirty-five pounds!

Green Tartan Scarf from River Island - I bought this scarf last December, just after Christmas but I haven't worn it since April I think? As soon as I could see my breath in the mornings whilst walking to school I decided that it was time for wrap up! Maybe it's slightly premature but, to be fair, I was getting cold at the end of August.. The scarf was only twelve pounds (from the men's section but ssh) and it's 100% acrylic and soooo cosy and soft! An Autumn/Winter must-have!

Estee Lauder Eyeshadow in the shade 63, Tempting Mocha (Shimmer) - I am really enjoying using this eyeshadow as a base underneath darker colours at the moment. I find that it coincides with a very autumnal look that I'm going for at the moment! It's so pretty and gives the most gorgeous but subtle shimmer and is really easy to blend.

Lancome Lipgloss in the shade 316 - I think that this was a limited edition product and that it's now been discontinued which is extremely sad as I've nearly finished mine, sigh. The colour I have is a deep purple with a hint of red and I looove it, especially for this time of year. It's very glossy, (hence it being a lipgloss..) and lasts for a good few hours on my lips, even withstanding me drinking and eating, which is great! 

B1 Micellar Water - I've wanted to try out a micellar water for so long so when I was in Exeter a few weeks ago I decided to try one and it was a very good decision! I've never tried anything from the B range before but I may be tempted to branch out to more go their products! You don't need a lot of product, simply disperse some onto a cotton pad and wipe away any make-up, whether it be foundation, mascara or lipstick, it removes it without causing any irritation or redness on my skin. I use it both morning and night to cleanse my skin and remove make-up and I find that it leaves my skin looking and feeling fresh and rejuvenated and it has helped to clear up my skin, bonus!

Sweater Weather by The Neighbourhood - I cannot describe my love for this song, oh my god.. I can't actually remember how I came across it, all I know is that as soon as I first heard it I immediately fell in love and downloaded it! It's such a good song and I feel that it's also very apt for the current season, haha.

Ace Multivitamin Juice - When I was younger we used to do our weekly shop at Lidl and I used to drink this stuff non-stop but then, for some reason, my mum decided to shop at Sainsbury's instead, meaning for about five years I went without it, which is really sad but also kind of good as a few weeks ago we went in there to get some stuff from the bakery and I re-discovered it and I am so happy that I have, it's honestly one of the nicest drinks I've ever had and It's so refreshing as well, mmm.

So that's it for our monthly favourites, what things have you enjoyed throughout September? Tell us in the comments!

Megan & Amy

x

OUR FIRST BIRTHDAY

It has come to our attention that we are now one! Our first post was one year old as of yesterday. We just want to say a huge thank you to those of you that accidentally found yourself on this site!

In the past year we feel guilty that we haven't put a lot of effort into this blog... there's so many posts we've planned to do but haven't gotten around to do them and we both feel bad for that... We have had nearly 2.6k mistakes on here and we appreciate every single one of them!

We have come so far in the last year and have improved a lot! We have gotten better looking, if we do say so ourselves haha. That is pretty much down to puberty, and we are very grateful that it worked in our favour there! There's also more along the way (hopefully) so we shall mature more!

Our blogging skills have improved MASSIVELY, we now feel like we write posts that we'd read ourselves, and posts we can be proud of, just not enough of them! We haven't done a haul or beauty one lately though... Next on the list!

Our fashion sense has improved... Oh my goodness, I cannot stress this one enough! So, our fashion sense isn't as good as it could be (bc we're poor woops) but it most certainly has improved a lot in a year! Woohoo!

Our lives... Okay, so I know this sounds weird, but it genuinely has! We're much more interesting now (although, still not very) and we get up to much more nowadays! We have also both gained Nieces, just four days apart! So, that was exciting!

Music taste, last year, I was into all that crappy chart stuff, and since then I've been introduced to the likes of The Pretty Reckless, Arctic Monkeys, Blink 182, Bring Me The Horizon, Asking Alexandria, Pierce The Veil, You Me At Six, etc... The list could go on, a lot! I feel, really passionate about my music taste now, whereas before I was just drifting over the charts, and not really getting into the music like now!

There are plenty of other ways that we have improved, I liked writing this post as we both are guilty of dwelling on what we're not, rather than looking back on how far we are along into becoming what we want to be! I advise all of you out there, just to look back on you a year ago, and compare yourself!

If you are reading this, then we genuinely love you so much! Thank-you, and if you've been here from the start, or even just a couple weeks, wow... We can't see why any of you would want to but sure!

If you're still reading, then we want you to write one comment, just saying where you are from and how far you've come in the past year and/or what sorts of posts you would like to see!

Thank-you ever so much, and a happy belated birthday to Love And Other Ramblings

Amy

x

END OF SUMMER

I'm actually really sad right now because I feel as if this summer has gone so fast - too fast. It feels as if I've done nothing when in fact I've done plenty; gone to the beach a few times, been to the park and played football, had movies days, went swimming and sunbathing at a hotel, shopping in town etc... But I kinda hoped that I would make more out of this summer and do lots more amazing things but I didn't and lately that's been really getting to me, I mean I know it's my fault because at any given time I could of just gone out with one of my friends and hopped on a ferry to Brixham, I just didn't, because as I always say, effort.

That bugs me. Yes, it's effort to do something, anything but most of the time, if not all the time, that effort IS worth it! So I think I'm going to make a mini test for myself - do more things that I wouldn't usually do and don't let anything hold me back. Ugh, that sounds extremely cheesy and cringe-y but it's true is it? There's always a reason you can find as to why you can't or won't do something, isn't there? So from now on, I'm not going to be looking for excuses or reasons (such as 'that requires way too much effort'), I'm just going to do whatever it is that I want to do, unless it's dangerous, don't really want to die any time soon...

Okay, so this turned into a really ramble-y post but a lot has been on my mind recently and this one of the things.. What's something that you've wanted to do but you've always found a reason as to why you shouldn't? Tell me in the comments!

Megan x

VISITING CORNWALL'S SEAL SANCTUARY

So last week I was in Cornwall, we visited a lot of lovely places over the week but one of the ones that stuck out most for me was when we visited the Seal Sanctuary in Cornwall (as you can probably gather by the title of this post).

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary rescues around 40 pups each season. It rescues them and hospitalises them back to health before releasing them back into the wild, if they are found to have a problem that means they are not safe in the wild, they will then offer a permanent residency to the Seal. They help Grey and Common Seals (no they are not chavvy seals, just the largest group of Seals I suppose)

They also do the same to Sea Lions, Californian and Pantagonian, they're also just as cute! They also provide homes for other animals such as Penguins, Otters, Sheep, Ponies and Goats!

Seals are fast becoming my favourite animals, actually, scrap that, they are my favourite animals! I will attach a few pictures at the end of this post. Only of the Seals and Penguins, as I didn't charge my camera woops.

What are your favourite animals then?

Amy

x

I never said they were good photos!

Lil' cutie.

He looks like he was having fun there!

Action shot #1 (pro. photographer right there)

Action shot #2 - looks like the pool is a cushion!

Chillin'

The penguins!

REVISION TIPS

Hola! So, I (and Megan) are in year 10 currently, moving into year 11 in September, and we have had what is has called as a 'Mock Week'. This is basically just exam after exam, taking past GCSE papers, this is to measure where you are, and prepare you a little for your actual exams roughly 12 months later.

So in this post I am just going to take you through a few revision techniques/ preparation I have used this past week, and hope you make use of them, if you are also in the same situation as us, or even just revising for other exams.

Wear comfy clothes! I can't stress this enough, it is so important to make sure you are as comfy as possible. I tend to wear a pair of  leggings, a Cami and a big hoodie... Pyjamas are fab, if you're a girl, going bra-less can be one of the best, and comfiest things around, as you would already know!

Take away any possible distractions! Now, this is a very vital step, I get distracted very easily, by Internet Shopping Sites... The best way possible is to revise internet-free, but there are way too many great sites to revise from, that may not be the most sensible thing to do? So you will just have to become a little more disciplined with yourself in order to get the most out of your revision time. Tell anyone you happen to be speaking to at that point to bugger off for a while, or if you feel like being a little nicer, just tell then that you'll message them later.

Get a treat, I like to get a packet of biscuits, and when I have completed one bit of my revision, I can have a treat, this will just help to motivate you to get the work completed. This can also work with other food, it's just that I may have a rather unhealthy addiction to biscuits, I'm slowly getting fatter and fatter, woops. Boiled sweets would be fab, as you can also suck on them whilst doing it, as a concentration technique, gum would also work well too.

Take regular breaks, my head of year recommended not to spend longer than 20 minutes revising at a time, as you lose concentration. I would personally up this rule, to 30 minutes at a time, as that seems good enough for me, and then take a break, have a cuppa, a biscuit (of course), what ever fits your needs.

Have a drink beside you, there's nothing worse than being deserted and dying (not literally) of thirst. This may be a little melodramatic, but  it's genuinely how you feel. So I find it's best to have something close, to lower your chances of, uh, dying of thirst while you're revising. Plus, you won't have to get up mid-revision sesh. It's so much easier just to have one close, whether it's water or a cup of coffee, just grab one, or 12...

I hope this has helped even just one of you reading, and I know this is a little late timing as it's nearly summer and all exams are over, but I hope you can refer back to it!

Amy

x

CARDIFF PHOTO DIARY

Hello! So this time last week (sigh) I had just arrived in Cardiff for a short break with my mum. It was such a nice trip and I enjoyed it soooo much, I miss it already! As I enjoyed it so much I thought that I would share some of the pictures I took with you, enjoy!

 DAY ONE

On the first day we drove to Wales and arrived at about 5ish. Once we had checked into our hotel we decided to walk along to The Wharf Pub to have dinner - I had five bean chilli, mmm! After that we walked back along past this river/lake thing and it looked so pretty, especially with the dawning sunset.

DAY TWO

On the second day we spent around 9 hours shopping in the main city - oops! I found so many beautiful items but I didn't have enough money as I was saving up to get my foundation from MAC.

After we finished shopping we had dinner at Pizza Hut (so civilised) then headed back to our hotel.

Chunky Chelsea Boots from River Island.

Chunky Cleated Sole Sandals, also from River Island.

Black Lace Bra-let from H&M.

Some pictures from the MAC store, they have soooo many
gorgeous products, I am determined to
build up my collection!

 DAY 3

 On our third and final day we packed all of our stuff up into the car and drove down to bay, which is by far the most beautiful part of Cardiff. We wandered around for a bit then headed over to the Doctor Who Experience, (I'm secretly a huge nerd, haha). After it had finished we went and had lunch at the millennium centre then walked back along the bay and headed home.

Pictures from the Doctor Who Experience which was
very fun and also kind of sad seeing as it's shutting
down soon to redecorate for the new doctor.

Here a few photos of the Millennium Centre, which a massive building
with lots of different artwork displayed within it. There are also
cafes and gift shops.

I hope you enjoyed this post,

Megan 

x

BIRTHDAY

Heyyy! So a few Thursdays ago, (the 12th of June) I finally turned 15! (And weirdly so did Amy two days beforehand but I'm better so...) It was one of the best birthdays I've ever heard which was nice as I really expected it to be bad.

Amy and I both had our 15th birthdays in the week we had our work experience, (we both went to a hotel and did housekeeping which was extremely boring). In the morning I got woken up at 7 by my mum and sister because I overslept, oops.. then we all went into the lounge where I opened cards and presents from the both. After that I had my traditional birthday breakfast - strawberries and sugar on toast -  sounds weird but is soooo nice! I then got ready and walked to work with Amy.

Unfortunately I spent the whole day servicing rooms in the sweltering heat, however I did get to do it with one of the only housekeepers at the hotel I actually liked and got on with - a girl named Mikayla.  Not gonna lie, we spent most of our day chatting about our lives and sitting in random people's rooms and using their chargers, as you do!

After work, I went home and opened my main present from my mum, an iPhone 5s! I was so happy, I genuinely almost cried, is that sad? Before that I had an iPhone 4 for two years, the sound was crappy, the camera was broken and the back was smashed, so it was definitely time for a new phone!

At about 4ish, my grandparents, my eldest sister and my nice and nephew all came round and everyone sang happy birthday to me with a cake (of course) homemade my by mum, which was delicious! When they had all left I got ready for dinner with my friends that was arranged by my mum as a surprise (sort of).

At 6pm, my boyfriend came round and gave me a present which was not at all expected.. literally all of my friends knew what he had bought me, apart from me, which was very frustrating! Turns out he had bought me a pair of beautiful gladiator style sandals from River Island which, in my eyes, was wayyy too much to spend on some one so I was upset at first but then I realised that I had pretty sandals and I got over it, haha. To top off his present to me, he also bought me four dib dabs, which, if you don't know, are like my favourite things ever, so sweet! (Notice the pun..)

Half an hour later, two of my other friends, Elley and Meg arrived and gave me more presents - Elley bought me the Silver Strand body spray from Hollister and Meg bought me a ticket to go and see The Fault In Our Stars, (which we went to see last night with Amy and Jake - it was amazing!) We then all left to walk to a local bistro. (By the way if your wondering why Amy wasn't there, it's because she was grounded and wasn't allowed out, awkward..)

For my dinner I had cheesy nachos (typical vegetarian option..) whilst everyone else had pizza. It was so nice! After a lot of laughing and Elley in hysterics, we all went to play in park like the kids we all are! We then all walked back to mine where my mum dropped everyone home.

After feeling bit sad that my birthday was over, I decided to go to bed! I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed the day from start to finish and I know that I won't forget about it for a long time!

To make my birthday even better, my dad and sister had arranged a surprise dinner with them both and my dad's girlfriend at  a local restaurant. My dad had bought me a MacBook Pro (Second-hand of course, but none-the-less!) I was so happy, I still am! It's safe to say that I was extremely spoilt this year, something which I do not take for granted!

My birthstone (moonstone) ring from Pandora.

iPhone 5S and MacBook Pro.

Silver Strand Body Spray from Hollister, Sleek Eyebrow Palette, Frasier and Frozen.

Tartan Shirt from Urban Outfitters, Topshop Black High Waisted Jeans, River Island Sandals.

Watch with Roman Numerals.

I just want to say that I am in no way bragging, I just thought this would be a nice post. :)

I hope you enjoyed this post - if you've recently had a birthday, what did you get? Tell me in the comments!

Megan

x

WHICH IS BETTER: HIGHSTREET POWDERS

Hola. So I have been thinking about dedicating a little bit of the blog to comparing products and sharing my views with all of you lot. There's nothing I like more than being opinionated and sharing my views on something! Now, what I compare can be anything from make up, to bubble bath, and to even food! Preferably food, it gives me an excuse to eat it! The things I will focus on most are their quality, and how they match up to what they claim to do on the packet. When comparing them, I will focus more on their prices, their wear, how it looks and quality again (if cosmetics) and the taste and prices for food. For other things I guess you'll find out when it comes to it, I like to go with the flow a little, haha.

As you can probably gather by the title, the first thing I am going to be comparing are high street powders. High street mainly as I don't have the money around for high end products, and I love a good bargain (who doesn't?). I am going to be comparing two Rimmel powders, Rimmel tend to get good reviews on their powders and that's why I chose them!

The first one is Rimmel's Stay Matte this powder gets tonnes of credit all over the Internet, and that's why I bought it in the first place! Before this, I wasn't really a powder-person and it really showed, my Oily skin was a lot more prominent, my make up just wasn't lasting, and I wasn't happy about the way I looked. I go. This powder really sets your make up and makes it last a lot longer than without, mine ended up lasting pretty much the whole school day, only with a bit of touch up needed under my eyes and in my T-ZONE. I highly recommend this powder to people.

The next one is Rimmel Clear Complexion. Now, with this it was more of a spur-of-the-moment buy, I hadn't researched this product at all, which is unlike me, as most of my buys are recommendations from else where and I research reviews all over the Internet. I bought this one as I liked the sound of the claims it made on the packaging. It claimed to minimise break outs and help stop them in the future. I have to say though, my spots are as bad as ever... This could be down to hormones though, but I have been using this powder for around a month, I wouldn't entirely blame this on my powder though, it'll be different for everyone!

Comparison wise, I prefer Stay Matte for many reasons, though I was using a tinted Stay Matte and prefer the Transparent Clear Complexion so when I get around to re-purchasing Stay Matte I'll get Transparent. Another thing I wasn't too keen on with the Clear Complexion was the fact that it was a lot thinner than Stay Matte it just ends up highlighting the hairs on my face, mind you, it did help me keep on top of sorting out my 'tash, always a silver lining, eh? I guess the fact that it was thinner was why it's supposed to be better for you? I don't know...

I have found that the wear on both of them are fairly similar, so not much problem there. This may sound silly, but I prefer the look of the Stay Matte only because it has the trademark crown and it looks so cute! Okay, I'm going to shut up now before I look even sillier... haha.

So as far as I'm aware, this is all I have to say about the two powders, tell me in the comments if you have any more comments on the two, and whether you like this little section of comparisons, and what do do next? Thank you!

Amy

♥

MY FAVOURITE BLOGS

Heya guys, today I want to share with you some of my favourite blogs! Reading people's blog is personally one of my favourite things to do as I love hearing different people's opinions on different products, how they style their outifits, what they've been up to etc and I just find that is so nice to have an insight into someone elses world via their own little bubble! Anyway, here are a few of my favourites!

Zoe Sugg - zoella.com

Tanya Burr - tanyaburr.com

Niomi Smart - ladysmart.com

Lousie Pentland - sprinkleofglitter.com

Lily Melrose - llymlrs.com, etcllymlrs

Millie Mackintosh - millie-mackintosh.com

Ashely Madekwe - ringmybell.com

Alexandra Pereira - lovely-pepa.com

Ruth Crilly - amodelrecommends.com

Carolina Engman - fashionsquad.com

Lauren Conrad - laurenconrad.com

So those are my favourite blogs, what are yours and who runs them?

Megan

♥ 

'STICKY CHICKEN' RECIPE

Hola! My family, after a lot of convincing have decided to trust me a bit more in the 'kitchen department'. They did used to let me cook occasionally, but I may have given them reasons to not trust me, twice. Once, I was cooking my Dad some soup on the hob, and left the hob on for 5 hours, woops. Another time is when I was cooking, I turned the knob the other way, to low, so you couldn't see the flame. Instead of turning it off... My Dad then came in from work, and for some reason put his oily work trousers on the hob and one thing led to another and my Sister had to retrieve them. I thought it was funny, they didn't so much... They didn't catch fire or anything though, they just gained holes where they had melted. My sister now claims to have 'saved our lives' everytime the mention of me cooking comes around, it's rather annoying actually.

So every week, on a Tuesday evening I cook a meal for the family. As it was my first week, I wanted to redeem myself by cooking something simple but effective. We always eat the same meals: Pasta bolognaise, Curry, Chicken & bacon and Casserole. Everyone in my family are on 'The Caveman Diet' where basically, they can't things like: Bread, Pasta, Rice, Potatoes etc.. So, I had to stay clear of those. Another issue is that my Step-Sister is a vegitarian, so I had to make sure I didn't contaminate her Quorn with meat. I did the same for her to, just with Quorn Fillets not meat!

 I decided I wanted something different, and I had 'Sticky Chicken' in mine. To be honest, I didn't actually know what it was, I had some sort of BBQ Rib sort of thing in mind, just chicken instead of ribs, I was wrong. To be honest, I still don't really know what it is, all I know is that it was VERY tasty!

You will need: (1kg of Chicken fillets and 2 Quorn Fillets)

4 tbsp of Soy Sauce
2 tbsp of Honey
1 tbsp of Tomato Purée
1/2 tbsp of Olive Oil
1 Garlic Clove (preferably 1 tbsp of Garlic Powder)
1/2 tbsp Ginger Powder
A few drops of TABASCO

This is sweet, so if you want it a little less sweet, lower the Honey levels to one, and if you want it spicier, add more TABASCO sauce. The reason it's better with Garlic Powder, as it's easier to mix in and marinate with.

Then what you need to do is mix all of the ingredients (bar meat etc...) in a bowl until it forms a marinade.
You then need to marinate your meats and leave it for a while, I left them for around an hour and a half and they were fine, preferably over night though, then you will get the fullest flavour possible.

Once you have left them for long enough, you can then start cooking them, use a shallow roasting dish, I don't know why, but that's what I used, then oven cook them on 180° for 50 minutes. 

Here's some pictures!

Before it was mixed...

Raw Chicken, ew...

Raw Quorn...

Not too pretty presentation though... but I served it with roasted veg!

So there you have it! If you are going to re-create this recipe and have a food diary with My Fitness Pal I have made a recipe for it on there, its called Amy's Sticky Chicken pretty adequate! Haha!

My family really enjoyed it too, the Chicken wasn't dry and it was VERY yummy, I want more, but with more chicken next time! It would also be lovely with rice and more sauce to drizzle over? Or noodles? Ooh!

If you have any ideas that are simple-ish for next time I cook for my family, please comment them below, or tweet me? THANK YOU!

Amy

♥