I always find myself apologising for posting motor related content as it’s not “in keeping” with my blog theme but I really do find things like this useful so I share if only for future reference for myself!
Monthly Archives: April 2017
The Pre-MOT checklist*
Posted in infographic, lifestyle
Learning to Silence my Inner Critic
Dress and Tee: Monki | Converse from Schuh
Now, I don’t have a secret to my success. It’s been a long battle and a lot of it is still very much trial and error. There are a couple of things that I have found really helpful though- the first of that being a course of CBT which saw me learn how to break my self-imposed rules (like actually being on time for things instead of constantly ten minutes early, or to accept a spontaneous invitation). I’m awaiting a start date for a more intense course which will delve more in to the root causes but even the basics gave me the tools I needed to start to break free.
The second thing that made a massive difference was learning the art of mindfulness. It’s always been something I was wary and dismissive of, but having been persuaded to give it a go by various people I decided I had nothing to lose and started to dedicate 5-10 minutes a day to it. I initially went with the Headspace and Calm apps but also made the purchase of “A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled” by Ruby Wax which proved to be a witty, relatable account of her own struggles as well as containing a six week guided programme which has helped me no end.
Of course it’s not for everyone but I thought it worth sharing these thoughts as they spill out of my mind. As ever with me partly so my blog can serve as a “record of achievement”, but also in the hope that even one person might read this and find something that could help against their own demons.
And the result of all this? Well, it’s only recently that the rewards have become evident. From challenging my social anxieties and attending a Blog Club Brunch in Bristol to attending the Grandaddy gig the other week. Spontaneous plans with friends have been followed through instead of a “yes, I’ll do it” followed shortly by a swift “no, actually I can’t today”. I’ve also found myself in the early days of a new relationship, in which I could not be happier (and that was a true case of spontaneous actions paying off) and I’m now able to relax, read, listen to music or watch a film without a constant state of panic and dread that I might have forgotten to do something vital.
Posted in life, life stuff, lifestyle, personal style, recovery
Indulging my [not so] inner cat lady with Red Candy
Before I move on to the specifics I just wanted to say what a delight Red Candy is, and always has been to browse. It’s a clean, easy to navigate site with a wide range of search options and categories to make finding whatever it is your heart desires a cinch. My parcel arrived well packaged and with the added bonus of a little packet of Haribo sweets too- I’m always straight in there when Mum has placed an order nabbing the sweets, I think it’s such a nice touch.
Next to catch my eye was this gorgeous lucky cat pen pot which is a brand new addition to the site. I’m dreadful for leaving pens and pencils strewn across my bedroom so having a cute and quirky way to store them has been a huge help and I can’t help but smile at it’s happy smiling face!
Last but by no means least I picked out this Peropon drinking animal planter. I’m not exactly green-fingered (I’ve killed two succulents already this year) but I really don’t see how I can go wrong with this self watering planter. I’ve got it set up on my windowsill right now and I’m eagerly awaiting the first signs of some strawberries appearing…I’ll report back on my progress with that one!
Introducing 100 Hail Marys
100 Hail Marys is an East London based brand that produces limited edition runs of apparel, art and accessories- all made by hand.
The brand is inspired by urban youth culture and street style. It’s founder, Christian Gould has 20 years experience in the creative industry- both in London and Stockholm. The launch collection is based around his combined passions for stencilling, screen printing, typography and tattoos to name just a few.
The clothing designs are first released in limited runs of 100, each screen printed by hand using environmentally friendly inks. Customers will receive with a branded certificate stating which number piece they own (and all pieces will be slightly different due to their handmade nature and the flow of the paint). Their art pieces, also limited edition are created using stencils and spray paint for an urban graffiti vibe.
All pieces are available through the newly launched website . The clothing items are all unisex and cost £28 for a t-shirt, £40 for a sweatshirt and art prints cost £100.
I’d love to know what you think, I love anything that expresses individuality and I’m quite taken with this particular tee.
The Details
Tee: Daisy Street | Jeans: Noisy May at Very | Shoes: New Look
I pretty much lived in this Daisy Street tee last year, on rotation with the three others I own and now the warmer weather is here I don’t see that changing any time soon. I’ve already declared my love of slogan tees so I won’t ramble on but they really can’t be beat.
The shoes were another impulse buy. Enamoured with the floral embroidery and pretty pink colour I couldn’t resist placing a sneaky New Look order a few weeks ago despite my preference for either ankle boots of converse. I’m determined to get the wear out of these though, they are just so pretty (and comfortable) and pretty perfect to bridge that gap between boots season and sandal season.
Ok, so essentially this is a post about nothing much in particular. I just wanted to share the outfit without really having anything to say for myself. I’m still in that re-adjustment period of being back in work, settling in to routine and building up a pretty nice life outside of it too. I’ll try and bring something more structured to the table next time and in the mean time…what have you been buying lately?
Posted in fashion, life, life stuff, outfits, personal style, shoes, shopping