tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17721540787358883662023-11-16T17:42:10.060+00:00 Taking The NickiAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.comBlogger156125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-76334549337714614692016-10-02T10:31:00.000+01:002016-10-02T11:59:43.199+01:00Five Things To Get You Motivated<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Having one of those times where you need a bit of a motivation boost? Me too. And the start of a new month is a good-a-reason as any to make a change or reconsider your goals, or give yourself a little kick up the backside to stop procrastinating. Whatever it is, these are the five things I've been doing lately that have a made a huge improvement to my motivation, and could for you too. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>1. Taken inspiration from friends and family. </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are so many people you are connected to that are doing some great things, whether they are small victories for themselves, or bigger battles that they're gearing up for, and the fact you're surrounded by such people it's a no brainer you should spend time with them. Just as misery loves company, motivation and positivity are infectious, so have a chat with the people in your life about what they've been up to, recharge your batteries by sharing, offloading and ask for help or support if you need it. Afterwards, you should feel more prepared to take on whatever you need to (and enjoyed some quality time with your favourite people along the way). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>2. Know what you're trying to achieve</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Whether it's a big thing or a small thing, being able to complete or achieve something you set out to, is a success. It makes us happy, and it motivates us in other ways, so know what it is that you're trying to achieve and don't let yourself get sidetracked. If it's small and you can do it in a day, do it and know how positive you'll feel afterwards, if it's bigger and may take weeks or months, then break it down into manageable chunks and recognise success along the way. You need to know what you're trying to achieve though, know what success looks like, if you don't, then how do you expect to have the commitment to get it done? So write a list of everything you can possibly think of that you want to achieve and start ticking it off, big things, little things, give yourself some time frames and begin working towards something.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>3. Enjoy the quiet</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've never meditated and I don't do yoga, although I would be open to both of these things, but lately I have just really enjoyed being quiet, or sitting in silence. No noise to get in my head, or to distract me from the task as hand. Not all day obviously, but just sometimes, the power of being in silence and doing what you need to do is great. It allows your mind the freedom to be loud, and to be heard, and in doing so, know in yourself if you're over thinking something, or whether you should be listening to the voice inside you. Music and TV are also big influences, and can have a huge effect on mood, so if what you need is headspace to figure out a problem, or concentrate, do it. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>4. Check out Ted Talks</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm a HUGE Ted Talks fan, and I have watched so many of them on You Tube, from language based ones, to self discovery ones, the power of silence (refer to my earlier point), the benefit of sleep, exercise and eating well. Pretty much any topic you could think of, I'm watching / listening to them, because I find them motivating. Regardless of how long they are, you come away knowing something you didn't already know, reconsidering something you already knew, or maybe just with a sense of self esteem because it's left you feeling like you're doing something right. Whatever it is, and whatever you're into, they are amazing!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>5. Activating Energy - aka Actually Do Something About It</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activation Energy is actually a term from one of the Ted Talks listed above, but it's something that I'd applied without knowing it had a coined term. Activation Energy is the breaking of a habit or an autonomous action to do something new. I'm paraphrasing massively there, but essentially it's about having and applying the energy to do something you don't already do. So for me, it was waking up one morning, thinking 'I really would like to start speaking french, when will I ever find the time though, and where would I start', and then actually researching and acting on that impulse, signing up to a class and spending my Saturday mornings in a classroom. Or wanting to get back into a good gym habit, so switching up my old routine so it works for me now. Whatever it is for you, apply it, it's exhilarating. Get out your own way, stop talking about wanting to do something for yourself and make moves to make it happen. Be the change you're waiting for to kick start your motivation, nobody else can do it for you. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hope these help, but for me, I've applied each and every one of these and they work on so many levels, but above it all, I have a desire to make positive changes to improve myself, so none of these actually feels like hard work at all. Instead they feel like the best prescription for helping you get motivated when you need it. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-24929851400881026592016-09-18T12:32:00.000+01:002016-09-18T12:32:49.288+01:00Ticking Things Off From My 5 Year Plan<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recently I did something I never really do, I read back over some of my older blog posts and guess what, it totally inspired me. It's easy to forget sometimes, or get caught up in your 'of the moment' mentality to forget about where you've been and what you've achieved, and actually it was so nice to sit and relive some experiences, put myself back in the shoes of yesteryear and so on. This lead me to reading back over my <a href="http://www.takingthenicki.co.uk/2015/09/my-five-year-life-plan.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Five Year Life Plan</a>, written pretty much a year ago exactly, and I am amazed I am that I've been able to turn some of those plans into a reality. </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's not that I had forgotten what these dreams or ambitions were, or that I needed to look back over them to remind myself, but what did surprise me is that we do go through life setting ourselves these goals and then maybe don't appreciate the achievement of them when we actually complete them. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reading back over them and realising that I am achieving some of what I wanted to achieve in five years, its an incredible self esteem booster, and made me think that I need to cut myself some slack, I am making positive moves, even if at times it doesn't feel like it, but also that maybe I need to set myself shorter timeframes from completing things. Maybe five years is too far in advance, and so much of life is so uncontrollable that we have no idea how things will change or evolve by then, so that these goals should maybe be one to three years long instead. After all, why do something in five years if you can do it in one? </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To recap on my previous post, the things I said I wanted to do, were a mix of very specific and then more general things and included, paying off credit card debt, travelling more, learning a new skill or language, presenting in one forum or another and then around my blog. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Drum roll please....well, a year on from when I wrote this post, I can proudly say I have completed, or started doing all of these things in different measures. My credit card debt is completely paid off (hooray!), I have travelled to two new countries and enjoyed new experiences in countries I have visited, I have started French lessons and I have presented to bigger groups in much more formal settings. I also tried upping my blogging frequency, but found that for now at least, the quality of my content is better on a weekly rather than bi-weekly basis. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So yes, safe to say, I'm proud of where I've managed to get to with some of those goals and plans. Some were bigger hurdles than others, but they all helped add to my self improvement and to help keep me striving to improve myself and ambitions.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In light of the above, I do feel like I need to be making some new goals and plans though, and although I have multiple lists and things I do want to achieve, I like that my previous list was so pragmatic and I want to keep things that way and set realistic timeframes to achieve them. And truth be told, now is not the time for me to be doing that. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you read my <a href="http://www.takingthenicki.co.uk/2016/09/why-september-is-perfect-upgradeseason.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">post last week</a>, I am in the midst of #upgradeseason, using the next few months to set myself up onto a good path for future endeavours and feel like it's a bit of a transitory time to be making goals that far into the future. So right now my goals are to keep on as I am, and within a few months I'll have a better grounding on what I want to achieve in the next chapter.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-50216641776822745582016-09-11T13:05:00.000+01:002016-09-11T13:05:24.673+01:00Why September Is The Perfect #UpgradeSeason<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I read an incredibly interesting article recently that, along with the head space I was in at the time, encouraged me to treat September as a new start, just like you would as a kid, when September signals the start of a new school year.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The article I read was in this weeks issue of Grazia, entitled <i>The Year Starts Now </i>and talks about how starting now, and retaining the old habits of childhood may be a better way to go, because in January everyone feels depleted and miserable, and now is quite a good time to restart as the seasons start to change and people start to nest ahead of Christmas chaos. I read this, having already been chatting to a friend about starting a new chapter of their life, and along with being in a foreign country, something clicked within me. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What are we waiting for? I look back at the last few new years, the plans and promises I wistfully make in the promise of 'this year being better than the last', 'bettering myself' and making myself promises which I never quite get round to. Well, that's since changed. After reading this article and being inspired by my friend, who has been through a horrendous time lately and is coming back fighting, as well as meeting some interesting people over the last few weeks, I decided to do exactly that, and JFDI this September...and the rest of this year. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So far, this month I have travelled to Poland, a country I've never visited before (tick), tried and learnt to cook Perogi, and started a French beginners course. As a result I feel so inspired to keep going. Believe me, I know it's going to be hard, and adding learning French to my already chocka schedule will be a challenge, but actually that's when I'm at my best. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's such a refreshing idea to start a-fresh in September, I totally buy into the concept, just like Dolly Alderton (who wrote the Grazia article), I think there is something in investing in yourself in September, so that when it comes to the new year and people are getting their bums into gear, and planning to upgrade their lives, you've already had four months to get into the swing of things, and should have been able to turn it into a habit. All of this is proof that September is the perfect #UpgradeSeason, so when you start to think about settling inside, the weather gets a bit crap (in the UK anyway), maybe start thinking about what you could start now, that would make a big difference to you by Christmas / January and how much better off you could be, if you just start now. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's exhilarating learning and trying new things, it totally pushes you out of your comfort zone and one of the things I'm most happy about is that I've actually met some really nice people along the way. It can actually be really hard to make new friends in the city, and actually doing something off you down back, taking a class, or learning a new skill is a great way of putting yourself out there with other like minded people. Just remember everyone is as nervous as you, and by January you'll be so proud of how far you've come, or int he worst case, be able to rule something out because you've tried it and it's not right, so you try something else. So give it a go and upgrade yourself this season!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-34754596956536343802016-09-04T11:44:00.000+01:002016-09-04T11:44:44.553+01:00Birthday Treats at Bourne and Hollingsworth<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're looking for a good birthday spot for either yourself or a (female) loved one, I'd highly recommend <a href="http://bandhbuildings.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bourne & Hollingsworth</a> in Farringdon. Having been twice, once for a boozy birthday brunch, and most recently for a birthday dinner, it's an ideal birthday treat!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I should explain that when I say it's a great place to take a female loved one, it's not because guys can't or don't eat there, but it is a rather feminine restaurant, it's the perfect 'Ladies That Lunch' spot at the weekend, and it generally does just have a much more feminine vibe about the place. Don't worry though there always men there, it's just not the place i'd recommend taking them for their birthdays....yours on the other hand, jump to it guys! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are planning a bit of a brunch, then their menu is great - I am a big fan of their pancakes, or smocked salmon and scrambled eggs, and their boozy belleni's are just as strong the first time round as the last, but they do put a hard stop anthem at 4pm, so if you get a later reservation, because it can be hard to get a table, get drinking!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For dinner, it's also a really delicious and light menu, and their signature cocktails go down a treat too. I took my mum the other week for her birthday as it's such a nice airy, and green spot, that I knew it would be somewhere she enjoyed (brownie points for me). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We had an earlyish dinner, arriving for 6:30, and because we'd been out all day and not really eaten since breakfast, we were rather hungry when we sat down. So we ordered two cocktails, a B&H take on a Cosmopolitan for me and Gin based one for mum. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We're also both fans of goats cheese, so we ordered the Goats Cheese Tart to share, which came with beetroot, which isn't something I'd usually be up for giving a go, but with the light fluffy tart, the beetroot actually worked really well. Who knew? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For mains, I ummed and ahhed for ages, but settled on my old faithful choice of Steak, where as my mum went for the Cod Cheeks, which looked delicious. For anyone that doesn't know what cod cheeks are, see below, mum is a big fan of scallops and she thinks these might have been a bit better, a bit more meatier, so if you're a fan, definitely give these a go if they're on a menu. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkffIEuKbLwQKldx3vb7zN7pmLJMChA2rx1mBwQtz1wKVUZAw_UMY7cuAftyTi4Mnl6ytpvQbekazvs1DhB9-k6FwKpMS5AfEz8omDwh4R0mlADvQMjjoGHSrvWQC7Vl7AZx3psfQedaf/s1600/IMG_7517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkffIEuKbLwQKldx3vb7zN7pmLJMChA2rx1mBwQtz1wKVUZAw_UMY7cuAftyTi4Mnl6ytpvQbekazvs1DhB9-k6FwKpMS5AfEz8omDwh4R0mlADvQMjjoGHSrvWQC7Vl7AZx3psfQedaf/s640/IMG_7517.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My steak was cooked to perfection, delicious on the tongue, but as can often be the case with these things, always looks rather dull on a plate, so it's not the best for taking blog snaps as you can see...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For dessert we shared again, opting for the white chocolate and dark chocolate mousses, and OMG this was unlike anything I've ever really tasted. They came with lavender biscuits and the mouses themselves were infused, the white chocolate was light and fluffy, and with hint of salted caramel, and the dark chocolate was rich and had hints of lavender, great on their own, but when you put them on a spoon together...ding ding ding, you have a winner! I'm glad we shared though as I think this could have been a bit sickly, if you had a whole one to yourself.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All in all we left content and full, but not overly stuffed, and my mum was keen to recommend it to people she know too, so as I say, definitely one to keep in your back pocket should you want a nice treat. </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-55981780510856037522016-08-28T13:05:00.000+01:002016-08-28T13:05:33.538+01:00My Fitness Journey and The Benefits of Working Out<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I started working out properly in 2014, when I'd had enough of waiting for things to happen and instead woke up to the realisation that you have to make things happen for yourself if you want to see a change. I know right, light bulb moment. But since then I've ridden high on the wave of regular exercise, and the low of getting into bad habits when other aspects of life take over. As with anything, it's a journey, but persistence is certainly key to get yourself out the other end of a slump!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In 2014, I was working out with a gym partner, she was working towards her wedding and I was just glad to have a friendly face who would share my pain at being in the gym so early, as well as having the motivation to get to the gym in the morning because your partner is there and you can't not go. That meant in 2014, getting up and going to the gym was actually relatively easy, I had a routine, it worked, there was a social element to it too, all good. It also meant I didn't have to put myself on any crazy diet for holidays or things because I was already in good shape - I'd made it a lifestyle choice, which is a much better and healthier way of going about things. Slow and steady wins the race and all that. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then things changed in 2015 when I got a new job, changed gyms but then that gym closed for refurbishment which meant that there wasn't really anywhere as convenient and my priorities began to change. My work social life focused more around after work drinks and not having someone to motivate you in the gym meant being left to my own devices became a whole lot harder. Other things started to happen to, arguments at home, increasing pressure at work, which all means that it was easier to turn to comfort food and wallow in my misfortune than keep my head in the gym game. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a result, towards the end of 2015, start of 2016, working out was not as much as a priority as it had used to be. I found it really hard to find a routine that worked for me, and felt like I was trying to make my old routines work when they just wouldn't, my life was different now and what worked once, didn't work anymore. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Luckily, my office moved and I was back to being able to go to the gym and walk to work in the morning, which makes life so much easier (trust me, getting on the underground after a workout in the morning is a sure fire way for you to look like a sweaty mess when you emerge at the other end) and I also found a routine that now worked for me and I've been able to sustain. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That's the key to routines, rather than trying to walk before you run, they need to be maintainable, and if things are thrown up that mean you can't stick to it for one week, or two, that's OK, work around it, or just do what you can, because you know fundamentally you've found a flow you can work with, and once you have that, everything is easier! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My routine now sees me in the gym five times a week, with a possible run thrown in on the weekend if I fancy. This is the same amount of working out I used to do, at my peak but my routine has changed because I now do two after work spin classes on a Monday and Wednesday, and then work out in the mornings; Tuesday, Thursday, Friday. The good thing about this is it mixes up my workouts and also gives me the lie-ins I need during the week as getting up so early (I get up at 5:20am to get to the gym in the mornings) five times a week was just too much without having a friend to meet in the gym like I used to. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The fact I found my new routine that worked was the first tick in the box for me, the second was maintaining it. I've also become</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> a regular face in the gym, which makes the experience much more enjoyable, especially in the mornings, where it is a bit of a 'club'; there are always the same faces there outside of the gym at 6:30 ready to get in and get on, and you've seen each other round long enough you kinda know each others habits and almost silently work round each other too. That in itself makes life easier, they may not be friends, but there is now that knowing smile of the girls and guys that are there when you're there, the small bit of small talk because you start and finish you workouts at the same time etc, that does make you feel like you're part of something. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The trainers / staff getting to know your habits also makes it easier to keep coming back, they know my name and greet me with smiles and also help motivate. For example I was feeling a bit snuffly the other week, and in my mind I was going to allow myself a Friday off because I was exhausted and I didn't want to be run down for the weekend, but when I was leaving one of the trainers said 'see you same time tomorrow right?', well that put me on the spot, I said yes and felt duty bound to go the next morning because he'd reminded me it was my routine and it was something I did need to commit to! So I went, had a good workout and left with a spring in my step as I always do. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The final thing that's really got me firmly back into the saddle is the fact I can physically see the changes in my body, and my fitness has increased, both of which prove what I've been doing is working. This is the most encouraging, as getting into shape is one of the hardest things to do, especially when you were in good shape and then fell off the waggon, because you do have to start from the bottom again, and it can be really disheartening, but trust in the process, it will come good again as long as you stick to a system! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When it does come back, it's great though. There is nothing better than lifting heavier than you have done before, running for longer, or faster than you were able to previously, or looking in the mirror and seeing that your body has begun changing. That your butt is taking shape thanks to all the lunges and squats, that your arms and back are looking stronger and more defined, your thighs are toning up, and your happy with your stomach when you look down. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's all progress and the physical manifestation of having put in the grind and effort into something and seeing the results, a truth that hard work pays off, and there is nothing more encouraging to get you back into the gym. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is where I'm at now, I've been back in the gym, working in my new routine for three - four months now and the changes are happening and visible. Perhaps not to everyone, but to me and I'm the one who counts right?! After all it's my body, I work out for me, not for anyone else and it's working, I don't need anymore motivation than that to keep </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">going and pushing myself. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you need further motivation to work out rather than sit on your sofa and perhaps choose to worry about a situation, see if the following benefits of working out will get you going:</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. It can turn a bad mood into a good mood</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Which is always handy when shit hits the fan and you're either concealing some pent up rage or frustrations or you just want to work through it. Whatever it is you're working out for, the positive endorphins released after a workout are a real mood booster. </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. It's a great way of clearing your head</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Especially running, and it goes past so much quicker when you have something on your mind. You almost forget what you're doing and instead you have the peace of mind of being alone</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, in your own head, working through something that can often give you the clarity you need.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Clearer skin</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sweating out all the toxins and crap from your body, does wonders for your skin, plus you drink so much water when you're working out, you're getting rid of the bad and replacing with the good, it's ideal!</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. The positive effects on the rest of your day</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">By this I mean more energy overall, but then a real tiredness at nighttime as you've expelled so much energy throughout the day. It makes you more focused, alert and prepared to handle what comes your way.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. It makes you feel good about yourself</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Perhaps the most important of them all. You can only work out for you, you can't do it for anyone else, as you have to want to do it in order to make the change, and when you do stick to it and see the changes, its encouraging and there is nothing better than being your own inspiration and motivation to keep going. How awesome is that if you actually think about it? You have committed to improving your body, you are achieving that and seeing your own improvements is enough encouragement to keep going. That my friends is the true representation of being the change you want to see. It starts from within, and its that internal strength that will see you through! </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-54782750089611512192016-08-21T14:16:00.002+01:002016-08-21T14:16:36.153+01:00Flowers For A Fiver at Columbia Road Flower Market<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When your mum comes down to London for the weekend, there are much worse things you can do than take her to Columbia Road Flower Market, that's for sure. Every type of seasonal flower you could imagine lines the streets and it's a feast for all the senses. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Colours, smells and the hum off cockney accents and cheeky banter line the streets to greet you as you arrive at the market. On both sides of the road the markets all line up, showing their best bunches and bargains as if peacocks showing off their feathers in order to entice you in and get you to part with your cash. And that's the hardest bit, knowing when to step away and say no, as you could spend an absolute fortune at the Flower Market. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSzRilVkH-OWPY0IdX-yKz-B3g0d4FnNB77ciN5Sm2WPv7ImHVc9-AOFgmz7gotGjyFQoiTz7ZHPLh6kcW18H74BVjZTpZOJQ8AE2fwioUDjeng4XY0Y2-u7UCNdBD3kdsz76JYrWLrVh/s1600/IMG_7528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSzRilVkH-OWPY0IdX-yKz-B3g0d4FnNB77ciN5Sm2WPv7ImHVc9-AOFgmz7gotGjyFQoiTz7ZHPLh6kcW18H74BVjZTpZOJQ8AE2fwioUDjeng4XY0Y2-u7UCNdBD3kdsz76JYrWLrVh/s640/IMG_7528.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">'Flowers for a fiver' must be the most commonly used phrase up and down the market, you can get so many different bunches, and mix and match until your hearts content, and although reasonably priced it's easy to get caught up in it, wanting a little bit of everything. The good thing about going this time was that we were really early, ready to go by the time the market kicked into full swing at 8am, and it meant that unlike when you're there later in the day, you're not constantly playing a game of human bumper cars to navigate your way through. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This morning it was fairly quiet and relaxed, with lots of regulars and newbies there to take in the sights and pick their flowers for the week ahead. We were also really lucky with the weather as it was cool and dry, the last thing you want at the market is to dodge brollies as well as flowers hoisted onto someones shoulder. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I mean they even had baby pineapples...seriously, look at it!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love coming to the Flower Market, and the fact its seasonal, means you often see different or new flowers which means you get to try something different for a change. Set with our purchases we also explored further afield popping down some of the side streets and cafes to see what was on offer. That's what I love about markets in London, there is so much more to see that what you first expect and it constantly surprises and delights.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-51844233955996417052016-08-21T14:16:00.000+01:002016-08-21T14:16:13.182+01:00Flowers For A Fiver at Columbia Road Flower Market<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When your mum comes down to London for the weekend, there are much worse things you can do than take her to Columbia Road Flower Market, that's for sure. Every type of seasonal flower you could imagine lines the streets and it's a feast for all the senses. </span><div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Colours, smells and the hum off cockney accents and cheeky banter line the streets to greet you as you arrive at the market. On both sides of the road the markets all line up, showing their best bunches and bargains as if peacocks showing off their feathers in order to entice you in and get you to part with your cash. And that's the hardest bit, knowing when to step away and say no, as you could spend an absolute fortune at the Flower Market. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">'Flowers for a fiver' must be the most commonly used phrase up and down the market, you can get so many different bunches, and mix and match until your hearts content, and although reasonably priced it's easy to get caught up in it, wanting a little bit of everything. The good thing about going this time was that we were really early, ready to go by the time the market kicked into full swing at 8am, and it meant that unlike when you're there later in the day, you're not constantly playing a game of human bumper cars to navigate your way through. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This morning it was fairly quiet and relaxed, with lots of regulars and newbies there to take in the sights and pick their flowers for the week ahead. We were also really lucky with the weather as it was cool and dry, the last thing you want at the market is to dodge brollies as well as flowers hoisted onto someones shoulder. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTbkcLOImxDJ2M5iCo9ov8xacucyIj56NGsH1e0RUbK3o2Axd5UzrCl0POvvcZoAkKiE6YZn5t7zodwkNQReQoSGAdOyCA0p4H_lQGPO8tl0JB5OG_kJi1jd5uv9F-fDuIkdEPwcx7ZhgL/s1600/IMG_7533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTbkcLOImxDJ2M5iCo9ov8xacucyIj56NGsH1e0RUbK3o2Axd5UzrCl0POvvcZoAkKiE6YZn5t7zodwkNQReQoSGAdOyCA0p4H_lQGPO8tl0JB5OG_kJi1jd5uv9F-fDuIkdEPwcx7ZhgL/s640/IMG_7533.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I mean they even had baby pineapples...seriously, look at it!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love coming to the Flower Market, and the fact its seasonal, means you often see different or new flowers which means you get to try something different for a change. Set with our purchases we also explored further afield popping down some of the side streets and cafes to see what was on offer. That's what I love about markets in London, there is so much more to see that what you first expect and it constantly surprises and delights.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-34052989630752669592016-08-14T12:04:00.002+01:002016-08-14T12:04:10.362+01:00Why I Need To Pick Up My Phone More <span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This weekend I did something I haven't actually done in a long time, I used my mobile to actually phone and speak to people other than my mum!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know that may sound weird, but I rarely use my phone to actually make phone calls anymore, and in fact my friends would tell you that they rarely bother ringing me anymore as I'm awful at answering. That all changed this weekend though when I actually picked up the phone and phoned several of my close friends and do you know what, it was actually such a positive experience it got me questioning why I had stopped in the first place.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each phone call was just what the doctor ordered too, making the effort to actually catch up with people on what's going on in their lives outside of when we meet up and delving deeper into conversations than you may do if other people were there. It was just such a nice and liberating experience and one that I intend on sticking too. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't know why or when exactly I got out of the habit of actually speaking to people on the phone, I think maybe at uni, but that was ten years ago now, so that tells you that it's been a slippery slope, and I would always opt for a text conversation over a verbal one, but really and truly it is not the same. You can't convey emotion, or get caught up in what you're saying int he same way. In a text message thoughts and conversations are considered and it's actually much more of an effort to type the words than it is to say them. That being said, one of the main reasons I do prefer to text is because life can get so busy that you don't have time for hour long conversations, choosing to check in with people quickly rather than have a deep and meaningful. The two definitely don't compare though and I actually feel so much closer and more connected to those people just because I picked up the phone. It's silly really, but it's made me vow to do it more often. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I do a fair bit of walking at the moment, in and around London and I'm a fan of podcasts and audio books to help pass the time if I'm not listening to something on Spotify, but from now on I am going to make an effort to use some of that time to make phone calls too. It is different when you're out and about compared to when you're sat at home on a Saturday morning granted, but the personal connection is totally worth it. Weird how easy it is to get into the habit of not actually communicating with people verbally and it does beg the question of what society will become if this trend continues? Because ultimately we're not, not speaking, we're now actually so privy to each others lives thanks to the multitude of social media, texting and emailing that it's not that we're not in contact, its just that the connection doesn't seem as strong. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm always a bit of a sceptic about social media too, there are some channels that are much more authentic than others but its all just a bit contrived and conceited to let everyone that you allow, depending on whether your account is private or public, see a perfectly filtered aspect of your life. It actually makes it a bit rubbish when you are having a bad time, or when you do feel like reaching out to someone to know what they have actually been up to. Instagram may have said they were at the park yesterday, but ask them and that was from two weeks ago, they just banked it to make themselves look busy. So, in a world where there are so many ways to connect with each other, and to showcase our edited lives to the world, I'm going back to basics, picking up the phone and nattering away and getting more face time in with those that mean the most to me. It's time to reconnect with the real world and stop communicating through the digital one. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-61234150194892350592016-08-07T18:31:00.004+01:002016-08-07T18:31:58.645+01:00How To Get Into Good Routines <span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It shouldn't come as any surprise that when you get into good routines your productivity, efficiency and mood can improve dramatically. Good routines cause good habits and good habits ultimately make you feel better, and give a sense of purpose. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Getting into good routines are actually not hard to do, all you really need to do is focus on what you want and make sure you prioritise that over other things to make it possible. They require dedication and commitment in the first stages, but after a while routines become habits that you want to keep up because they offer a benefit, whether it's getting into a good sleeping pattern, going to the gym, or how you spend time at the weekends. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know personally that when I fall out of good routines it becomes a slippery slope into a bit of a free for all, and can mean that I start throwing the baby out with the bath water for want of a better phrase. It doesn't breed good habits and I end up becoming rather unproductive, which is never ideal. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For me, the best routine is fitness related as that's something I'm passionate about and I do completely by myself so there is nobody else to motivate me to do it, and it has a knock on impact on several other bits in my life, from what time I go to bed, what I can do in the evenings etc. It's not always easy but it's certainly worth it. The routine I'm working to at the moment means that I go to the gym twice after work and three times before work during a five day week, and then if I want to, I go for a run on the weekends, but I don't pressure myself as my weekends are when I allow myself to have the most fun, let my hair down and make up for the fact that I usually have an early bed time during the week. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's a routine I've been able to stick to for a couple of months now and it's had such a positive impact on my life, I'm really enjoying it. So much so I don't really even think about it anymore, I just know what I have to do when and get on with it almost autonomously. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you was to get into a good routine, regardless of what it's for, there are several things you need to consider. </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. It takes time</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sticking to a routine requires dedication as I've said and it does not happen over night, you really need to apply yourself and focus, nobody said this stuff was easy!</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Try different routines out until you find one that works for you</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For routines to become habits they need to fit with your lifestyle, you can't force yourself to do something that doesn't fit as it won't last, try different routines out over a few weeks and see what sticks.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Consider what you need a routine for</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There's no point in having a routine and not know why you're doing it. Is it because you're always really tired so you're trying to sort out your sleeping pattern, so your routine is all geared around that, or is it fitness or food related? Whatever it is, just be clear as to what you're trying to achieve and don't loose sight of that focus. </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Commit to it</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Especially at the start of trying to initiate a routine you really need to commit to it. No talking yourself out of it, or letting yourself have a day off for no reason, choosing to go to the pub instead of the gym. Nope. You want to achieve something, you need to commit to it until it becomes habit and you want to do it rather than not do it. Once you're there, you can do other things and bend some rules, because you'll have the commitment to do what needs to be done regardless and know how it impacts your lifestyle. </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Focus on the benefits and enjoy it</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Routines become habits and help motivate you and make you more productive because that's what you want. If you don't want that, don't bother, but if you do remember it's a choice and you should enjoy it. It's not a punishment to go to bed early if that's what you want to do, celebrate it, get excited about it and enjoy it. Remember and recognise the feeling of having a good nights sleep, and how productive and happy you are as a result, or when you do a good workout, or whatever it is. Notice these improvements, give yourself a pat on the back and repeat it as necessary to make it a habit!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-52362700272014825012016-07-31T10:01:00.000+01:002016-07-31T10:01:00.678+01:00Eating Habits - Clean vs Unclean<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">They say you are what you eat, and I am certainly a believer on the impact food has on your mood and behaviour, but kicking bad habits can be hard, and you can see people jumping from one extreme to the other. Now we're at the point where there is a backlash on clean eating, so where do we actually draw the line? </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">For me, I always focus more on my exercise compared to food, as as long as I'm moving my body, I generally feel good about myself, whereas food can peak and trough massively depending on if I have an occasion, I'm celebrating, it's my time of the month, how stressed I am etc. What I will say is that as an ideal I try and stick to the 80:20 rule, being good more often than not, but I'd make the rule over the course of a week rather than a day. I also have a huge sweet tooth so I do get myself into situations where my cravings control me rather than the other way around, which isn't ever ideal. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnHC0NrtRz5kcR-PIE_2EwWToUv2OqkJ99gdz8XWmVlNwe4KTriW5-j03BlQ3HU00URb0sviO884SEoO5oWbuNVFpvDMfEvIHcclC4VxYU70qDqipG6h54cnNxr2TkVD7EB-G3d7Zh9Ix/s1600/IMG_4817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnHC0NrtRz5kcR-PIE_2EwWToUv2OqkJ99gdz8XWmVlNwe4KTriW5-j03BlQ3HU00URb0sviO884SEoO5oWbuNVFpvDMfEvIHcclC4VxYU70qDqipG6h54cnNxr2TkVD7EB-G3d7Zh9Ix/s640/IMG_4817.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am a huge foodie though, and I love meat, a good steak or burger is one of my favourite things to order at a restaurant, and I would rather order a sweet to a starter, but that does also depend on whether it's lunchtime or dinner. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Y1bllSqM-hweHi4TmRmubYUWlkEE0l8oRLPXfuO23v3D4-ltf824bQJhXy5Dlv1Zsf6YlGKsuMz8U8ABpNJ7ml4ryn04h7GysH_NMjqis9x-Y0siPZr8D3K5olJGScg1x_vY6-Umxqcs/s1600/IMG_5565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Y1bllSqM-hweHi4TmRmubYUWlkEE0l8oRLPXfuO23v3D4-ltf824bQJhXy5Dlv1Zsf6YlGKsuMz8U8ABpNJ7ml4ryn04h7GysH_NMjqis9x-Y0siPZr8D3K5olJGScg1x_vY6-Umxqcs/s640/IMG_5565.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's an interesting topic with all the clean eating backlash going on at the moment though, I'm not really sure how I feel, but I think ultimately it comes down to peoples personal preferences and choices. If you want to eat healthy, then do, if you don't, don't, as long as you're aware of the positives and negatives of doing so and you're comfortable with your choice then it shouldn't matter to others. Health and well being are hugely important, but what that looks like differs from one person to the next as all of our bodies are different, and that's what's great about our genetic make-ups. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Personally, I used to base my food restriction around the scales, when it tipped too much, it was time to manage things again, but lately it depends on my body and what it's telling me. Maybe it's because I'm getting older and I'm more in tune with my body compared to what I was before, but I can tell when I'm bloated that I need to cut certain things out, if my mood is unproductive and grumpy it's also an indicator that I'm having too much sugar as it makes me feel massively unmotivated. Knowing this about my body allows me to manage things much more effectively, and knowledge is power. If I want a pizza for dinner, I'm going to have one, but chances are I'd have worked out that day and I'd have mentally prepared myself for that meal, and you bet I'll enjoy it. Balance.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There is nothing worse than eating something and then feeling guilty about it afterwards, I mean yes I am no stranger to eating a whole tub of Ben & Jerry's pretty much all to myself, and I will have a massive sugar high, and then crash and feel guilty about it a bit, but that's more because that's glutinous and I know I'll work it off the next day or whatever so it doesn't really make a huge impact to how I look or feel long term. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, to conclude, clean eating I'm for it, I love feeding my body good stuff that strengthens it and makes it feel nourished and I feel empowered, if I do it for long enough it also kills my sweet tooth which is always a plus. But non-clean eating, I'm also for it, not all the time, but some of the time. I don't plan these as cheat meals and I don't have a super clean diet on a daily basis, but I eat balanced and nutritious and allow myself what I want when I want it, within reason. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">People just need to stop judging and imposing their habits onto others and it'll make things much easier, after all, if you're basing peoples diets on what they say they eat on Instagram, that's a joke, and if you never eat anything healthy, then you're not getting a good balance to your diet and are probably in a very temperamental mood a lot of the time. But whatever, we're all different and are allowed to enjoy and celebrate these differences. Now pass me the steak and I'll have a strawberry cheesecake or ice-cream for dessert. Cheers!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-74746805718729101762016-07-28T19:59:00.002+01:002016-07-28T19:59:58.807+01:00Lunch in the Ivy Cafe, Marylebone<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do you ever sit there wondering where to go for a girls birthday lunch, or dinner spot? Well if you've got a bit of cash to splash and you want spend it on a simple or well executed food, then you should check out the Ivy Cafe, Marylebone.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEvJsqBTCIrcfHev7S52IEDDa7W1L0TB1DiA83L6U8RcgxzsNDZ3EzqCLnU6jm3CQfsTslxZ4t49OAF-MLcHNaAUeJ_SyFYTwGmsLXLce-xwDBHueG-0JO9EVYONfaU2-NlaGHr0lW5YQS/s1600/IMG_0294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEvJsqBTCIrcfHev7S52IEDDa7W1L0TB1DiA83L6U8RcgxzsNDZ3EzqCLnU6jm3CQfsTslxZ4t49OAF-MLcHNaAUeJ_SyFYTwGmsLXLce-xwDBHueG-0JO9EVYONfaU2-NlaGHr0lW5YQS/s640/IMG_0294.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Just off Bond Street, the I<a href="http://theivycafemarylebone.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">vy Cafe</a> is tucked down the side streets on Marylebone Lane, it's this great little restaurant, split over two floors and with a small amount of seating outside. We went for Zee's birthday lunch, and whilst we waited for the rest of them to arrive Zee and I sat at the bar, caught up and enjoyed people watching in the process.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkrk_NnGsjcbHCf1LG9dO2ZGC2txSnanHW4mqIUjLHNuoc2g9NbgswuFEFa86qjkFMli6b_MdoK1Ocx60JMMe7mLn-rqgd6ElPSTs9QF1Oy_EBaegmuih5pkTBAOeyhUiR4jphz9B9Vq7D/s1600/IMG_0289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkrk_NnGsjcbHCf1LG9dO2ZGC2txSnanHW4mqIUjLHNuoc2g9NbgswuFEFa86qjkFMli6b_MdoK1Ocx60JMMe7mLn-rqgd6ElPSTs9QF1Oy_EBaegmuih5pkTBAOeyhUiR4jphz9B9Vq7D/s640/IMG_0289.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The place was buzzing with noise and laughter and was really nice to be apart of, then when a few more of the group arrived we were seated in a table the middle of the room.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The only thing I'd say about where we were sat is that there were lots of waiting staff always walking past but not necessarily focusing on us. It took us a while to be able to order a drink, but when we did the wine was kept chilled in a wine bottle on the edge of the room and topped up regularly.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When it came to food, we all chose to line our stomachs for the day ahead. The menu is really good and full of British staples that are executed really well.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I opted for Fish & Chips, something I'd never usually go for, but something that totally took my fancy based on Sharna's recommendation having been there previously, and she was right. It was delicious, the fish almost melted in the mouth, with a nice crisp batter and mashed peas. Delicious.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8877Pq8gVlcinm9jFJns5JgJoyrOWKpMWAxdbboEzUFPvgvthVope4va3gWqlPQBfxqRux02VPwKvu62U7LcuhJq10tFD3pzfjidK0VJJYgiiA021wtvruHrZp6bvaYy4R-nRcDyQ_QHt/s1600/IMG_0292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8877Pq8gVlcinm9jFJns5JgJoyrOWKpMWAxdbboEzUFPvgvthVope4va3gWqlPQBfxqRux02VPwKvu62U7LcuhJq10tFD3pzfjidK0VJJYgiiA021wtvruHrZp6bvaYy4R-nRcDyQ_QHt/s640/IMG_0292.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The girls had a mix of Streak Sandwiches, Halloumi Lettuce and Tomato and Shepard's Pie. Yep, a real mix, but when you have cravings, you have cravings.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieAhQ20DXxmpLYCNxphSrkj3iHlWn1Me709kmKNrGK8UOBOsHwacLylP3Q7PZKhFKFDfaJSj4wDt11wsv_PZEIqE98e00Eif3IVseWqwgRx56rP0UGwGHPXtIAKAkl33uOh_pjAxQwrLZf/s1600/IMG_0304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="606" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieAhQ20DXxmpLYCNxphSrkj3iHlWn1Me709kmKNrGK8UOBOsHwacLylP3Q7PZKhFKFDfaJSj4wDt11wsv_PZEIqE98e00Eif3IVseWqwgRx56rP0UGwGHPXtIAKAkl33uOh_pjAxQwrLZf/s640/IMG_0304.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We didn't have starters purposely so we could choose to indulge on dessert, and best believe we didn't share! Instead the table was packed with Strawberry Shortcake Sundaes, Chocolate Bombs and Dark Treacle Charts. Each one was delicious and went down a treat. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, if you're after a nice little afternoon lunch spot, or maybe a more sophisticated dinner, it's definitely worth remembering this little spot. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-88964315216463110962016-07-24T09:46:00.000+01:002016-07-24T09:46:29.021+01:00Why I Read To Relieve A Stressful Week <span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today I've woken up feeling really positive, and after what can only be described as a stressful week, I've spent a bit of time looking back at what triggered my stress, and how I've finally woken up on Sunday feeling ready to face the world again. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When you're stressed, you have two options; deal with it on your own, or spend time with others, brushing it off and moving on, maybe it's because I'm an only child, or because I'd been out and about a lot this week, but I took Saturday night to myself and it was the best decision, especially as it gave me time to put things into perspective, not have to explain myself to people, and because I actually had a really great evening by myself. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm not going to lie, I wanted to slob out and eat take-away and allow myself to mope about a bit and get it out my system, instead I forced myself to do things I knew would make me feel better about myself rather than worse. It sounds obvious I know, but its easy to forget that when you're in a funk all you want to do is throw the baby out with the bath water, and rarely does it do anything but highten your already stressed state. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So instead of ordering takeaway, ice cream and a movie, I got home, spent some time cleaning and preparing a healthy dinner, yes very domestic but have you ever heard of tidy space, tidy mind, and all that? Especially as when I say healthy dinner, I roasted a chicken and made a delicious Chicken Caeser salad, which is one of my faves, so simple and fresh so it was something I was looking forward to eating. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then I sat down with a glass (bottle) of wine and gave myself a bit of a pamper, from my head to my toes, which is a sure fire way for all girls to feel good about themselves, and forces you to relax as you can't be running about like mad thing with a facemark on, it just doesn't really work that way. Then I did something that I don't think I would ever really do on a Saturday night, usually opting for a good movie or whatever instead, but I sat down and read. I read two thirds of my book over a few hours and only put it down when I was struggling to keep my eyes open. I haven't read so much in ages, but it was so calming and relaxing and just allowed me to be somewhere else it was so nice. I love reading, and since getting my Kindle, I read so much more as it's so convenient, but I do think there is nothing better than when I book transports you elsewhere, and I don't really think any other media does the same, not even movies. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That was the shocker for me, but there was obviously a reason I chose to pick up a book rather than turn on the TV, and I think it's because it's what I find calming and helpful at the same time, as you can't be in your own head when you're in the narrators, meaning you can't actually be stressed when you're curled up on the sofa reading a book.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reading also meant I became very aware when my body was telling me it was time for bed, rather than waiting for a movie to finish or whatever and that I had one of the best nights sleeps I'd had in ages. Hence waking up this morning with a spring in my step and ready to conquer the world around me. Well, either that or the list of jobs I've given myself to complete. I love to write lists as I find them super useful at helping me feel productive, if I don't have a list I feel sort of aimless, although I know what needs to be done, unless it's there on paper, it's never the same, even if its digitally written, you can't tick it off the same way.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Appreciate that was a bit of a ramble of a post, and as I say it wasn't actually my planned content but I feel like I just needed to share, as if it helped me, maybe it will help you too, especially as Sunday's are great days to sit back with a book too, and in the sun no less! </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-36693476708889627582016-07-17T10:25:00.000+01:002016-07-17T10:42:11.260+01:00Fit Bits: Fitness Pole Dancing<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm so happy to be bringing my Fit Bits section back, it's been a while and it's actually one of the bits of my blog I enjoy writing and testing out the most. I miss giving new workouts a go, so one of the things I challenged myself with recently was to put that plan into action, so here I am trying my hand at a taster session of Pole Dancing. The verdicts in and I enjoyed it! </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I need to make one thing clear though, this was absolutely not, in any shape or form a sexy class. The only one that was able to wriggle her way around the pole in a manner that exuded sex appeal was the instructor, the rest of us all looked like fish out of water to one degree or another, and as it should be. I take my hat off to the girls that do this as a fitness sport or for work; pole dancing isn't easy, it's a lot about body positioning and upper body strength and releasing the tension in your body, which, when you try something for the first time, and you're aware that you have a metal pole that could hurt your pelvis or shins at any time, is not so easy to master. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The class itself was great fun though, I did it with a friend, Sara, as it was actually her idea and at 8:30 on a Wednesday evening we met up in Monument to visit <a href="http://www.polepeople.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PolePeople</a> dance studio, for the taster class we'd registered for. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was fully booked as they have such small numbers, which was actually ideal as it made it more intimate and like the instructor could actually see what you were doing. There were about eight poles in the room, and three sides of it was mirrors so you could watch your techniques and obviously try and perfect the sexy body roll when you're a bit more advanced. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic taken from polepeople.com Facebook page</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In terms of what you had to wear, it was shorts or leggings, but shorts are best because it allows you to grip the pole better with your legs, although this can cause friction burn if you're not careful, and bare feet. I was so glad as I know some classes make you wear heels, but this one was just walking on your tiptoes to imitate being in heels. It was safer (especially for new beginners) and it means, as wearing heels does, that you tilt your pelvis and have better posture which is important when doing pole. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our instructor was great, her name was Jai and she had one of those bodies which you wish you could have, you know toned to perfection whilst retaining feminine softness... But the way she was able to swing herself round the pole showed how strong she was, and as an instructor she was great. She was able to show us a routine, and then clearly break all the moves down and spend time with everyone in the class which I think everyone appreciated. By the end of the first hour we were able to master a mini routine made up of five parts and by the end all able to complete it, performing the routine on both our left and right sides. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of the things that surprised me was how much of a workout I felt like I was getting, and I really enjoyed trying to get my body to move in different ways, and to just shake it up a bit. One of the things that we were told is it burns up to 800 calories per hour (great!), that its a great way of toning your bum as the body roll is perhaps more effective at working multiple parts of the glutes (great!) and that you'll feel the DOMS ache in your body and muscles the day after your workout (not so great unless you're into that sort of pain). For me, I didn't ache 24 hours after my workout, nor the day after that, and Sara didn't either, but both of us work out and lift weights so that may have something to do with it. I certainly felt my arms getting a good workout during the session though, and having to constantly engage your core is a great way of working that little baby out. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So all in all, I'm sure you've guessed but it was a great workout that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was social and fun with a relaxed yet engaging nature, I can certainly see why ladies love it!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-85124279856018198822016-07-14T19:38:00.000+01:002016-07-14T19:39:25.318+01:00Afternoon Tea at W Hotel<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How would you feel about afternoon tea at W Hotel in Leicester Square? If you aren't already chomping at the bit, the following post will get you salivating for sure! </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love a bit of afternoon tea, and have enjoyed my fair share, but when it comes to originality, theme and actually taste, the W Hotel has my vote right now. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was such a nice day, and I went with one of, if not THE biggest cake fan I know. Jem runs her own uber popular blog and her own cake baking shop, if you want to check it out visit her <a href="http://www.icedjemsshop.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online shop</a> or <a href="http://www.icedjems.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">blog</a>, or if you're in Birmingham and like baking, go see her store for yourself, it's like baking heaven!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Anyway, I digress. We arrived about 2:30pm, where we had a great little spot right in the sunshine, if you don't know W Hotel, the first floor is ultra modern, complete with high windows and plush sofa's and chairs and lots of plates.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Once we were seated, we enjoyed some tea, English Breakfast for Jem, Mint for me, and took a few snaps, then 10mins or so later, out came the Afternoon Tea.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Look how fun it looks, it's a punk rock theme and it didn't disappoint. All we needed was a glass of Champers to set it off perfectly, and then we tucked in.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was hard to pick a favourite as I enjoyed it all, but if you twisted my arm, it was the Frozen Strawberry and Basil Moose. The outside was white chocolate, and inside the moose was cold, fruity and so refreshing, there was also a small bit of chocolate cake underneath which finished it off perfectly. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The whole thing was just so delicious, and the perfect Sunday afternoon treat. It wasn't too expensive either, £50 for the afternoon tea, glass of Champagne and service charge, so if you're after a great little spot to try in Central London, I'd highly recommend you give this a go.</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-88680720634017310162016-07-10T11:18:00.001+01:002016-07-10T11:18:28.360+01:00How To Motivate An Unmotivated Mind<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've been feeling really motivated over the last month or so, but as I was giving myself a bit of a pep-talk, I wondered if you guys may find this useful too. </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I get a lot of feedback that you find my chatty blogs inspiring or motivational in some way, and that's such a great thing for me for so many reasons. I'm so glad that what motivates me, or gives me the much needed kick up the ass, translates through the compute screen and resonates with you guys. So for anyone in need of a little 'mph', I'm hoping this one does the same.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As I say, I've been on a real high the last month and a bit, but this last week in particular I've felt a bit lethargic and it's had an effect on my mood. Between you and I, I think that has something to do with quitting sugar cold turkey, doing really well and then gorging on birthday cake and chocolate for days, hence the mood swings, fatigue etc...but anyway, cutting out the sugar has started again (as of today) but I have been giving myself a bit of a pep talk in order to achieve the things I've put my mind too, as however much you want to do something, sometimes you do need that extra bit of a motivational push to lift your spirits. I should state now that this post isn't food / fitness related at all, it's just about general motivation for life, personal goals etc, so if you have any comments or tricks that work for you too, I'd love to hear them. </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. Get out your own way and do something different at least once a week</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">May seem weird, but if you actually do something you have either talked yourself out of doing previously, or face it reluctantly for someone else, you may actually surprise yourself at how good it makes you feel once you're done. I'm my own worst enemy when it comes to talking myself out of stuff and I know just what to say to myself, convincing myself its for the best, or to try another day. But if you do something that gets you out your own way, there is a really great sense of 'I'm glad I did that', that comes after it and it does lift your spirits somewhat. This thing doesn't have to be related to your goals at all either, it's just a great way of getting a sense of achievement and you may surprise yourself by discovering you actually liked it! </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2. Set yourself a goal of '3'</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">'3' things you want to achieve that day, whether it's personal or professional, and make sure you do them. Even if you're in a really crap situation and one is getting out of bed and brushing your teeth, it doesn't matter how big or small they are, the only caveat is that you need to decide on what they are before you do anything, you can't retrofit them back into your day, that's a cheat! Three things everyday and it's surprising how much you feel like you achieve, and that feeling is everything when it comes to considering motivation. </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. Get physical</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Whether that's with a partner, with the gym or round the house, do something that gets you up, moving and feeling good (no I'm not comparing the passion of sex to productivity of housework, but sometimes you just have to work with what you've got!). Don't just stay on your backside all day. </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4. Breathe in fresh air</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Preferably I mean get outside, but even if its pouring down like it is in the UK at the moment (thanks British summer time!), open the windows, get some fresh air in, or stick your head out. Fresh air is such a delicious thing, its such a great way to rid the proverbial cobwebs and feel positive. </span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5. Eat healthy foods</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This isn't me banging on about one type of diet or another, this is just me stating the obvious that when you eat and drink well, you feel better for it, and when you eat crap, you feel like crap (duh!). So swap the sweets for a salad (note to self!) and feel light and positive rather than riding the emotional highs and lows of the sugar rollercoaster. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-73223666047805838472016-07-06T07:38:00.000+01:002016-07-06T07:38:15.402+01:00July's Blog Based #30daychallenge<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">OK so June has come and gone, and I've gotten to grips with spending a bit of time focusing on me, trying new things, taking control of my health a bit more, and generally giving myself a bit of an MOT, but now it's July, and I'm turning my attentions to my blog. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm actually really excited about this too, as I have lots of ideas and I really do need to provide this little love of mine a bit more TLC. I've felt a little lacklustre towards blogging lately, it has just felt like another thing I have to cram into my days, but this month I'm turning that round! I'm turning what could be negativity into inspiration to succeed and making blogging 2 times a week my July #30daychallenge. </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I already feel more inspired and there is lots I want to get out there and do, so having a whole month dedicated to blogging should really help me up my game. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Since Friday I've been gathering and creating content, writing down ideas and getting the buzz and passion back for my blog in terms of what I want to write and focus about, and it really has made a big difference.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As I say June was about focusing on me, and doing some soul searching into things I want to do / learn / be as well as the things that I want to eradicate from my life, and in doing that I feel like it's given me a much healthier perspective on things which is important, and has been inspiring. It can be quite easy to get into a rut, or plod along with things without questioning why, so by taking last month to do so, it's definitely given me impetus to crack on and up my game with my little space on the Internet.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope you like the changes that will come, as I say I plan on upping my blogging game, posting at least eight - ten times and trying new things on here, but if you have any feedback I'd also really appreciate it.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-40474269602404829522016-07-03T12:24:00.000+01:002016-07-03T12:24:17.653+01:00Making My 29th Year The Happiest Yet<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As you may have guessed from the title, I have just turned 29 and when I blew out my candles on various cakes over the weekend, I made a pact with myself that this would be my happiest year yet. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's the last year of my twenties firstly, so I'm determined to go out with a bang and the celebrations to see in my birthday definitely put me on the right track. I had the best time celebrating with so many of my favourite people, from dancing the night away on the Friday, to a trip to the theatre to see Book Of Mormon, which is absolutely hilarious and I encourage everyone to go and see it pronto. As well as dinner with my parents and lunch with my cousins. I feel so happy to have seen so many of the most important people to me this weekend and I plan on bottling this feeling and keeping it with me all year long. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am choosing happiness over stress this year for sure. I want my 29th year to all be about smiles and silliness and nothing too serious. I have some things that I want to achieve and tick off my list before I turn 30, but I don't want to stress about them or put myself under undue pressure, I want to just stay silent and motivated about them and spend my time laughing my ass off to reduce the frown lines that could begin appearing on my face at any minute... </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As always I have a bit of a plan to ensure I stay on track with what I think may be the most important goal I have, and I'm so determined to succeed that I smile just thinking about it. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The biggest one for me is to focus on the positives of every situation</b>. I know this is going to be easier said than done, and of course I'll have times when things just piss me off, but there are things that we go through that are certainly made easier when you focus on the good rather than the bad. I generally try and have a positive mental attitude anyway, but this year I'm ensuring that happy halo doesn't slip! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The next is to stop overthinking and try to go with the flow a bit more</b>. This one may be slightly harder for me, and it pertains to a certain situation in particular, but I am 100% prone to overthinking everything, and last year I did a whole post on the need to let it go, so it's time I took my own advise as being in your own head can lead to you being your own worst enemy sometimes. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The third is to celebrate successes</b>, and they don't have to be huge ones, but things that I've worked for that I pull off. Whether thats work, personal or fitness goals, I want to ensure that I remember the moments of success and celebrate some how. I don't mean always with treats or anything either, but there is nothing better than looking back over a period of time and remembering that feeling where you pat yourself on the back for having put your mind to something and achieved it. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Fourth is to stop sweating the things that are out of my control</b>. I guess this is me admitting I can be a bit of a control freak, I don't know, but I know I need to let certain things go and as soon as you do it totally reduces the stress that you carry around. It's not good, it's not healthy and it can end up leading to overthinking and certainly stops the possibility of positive outcomes.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Finally the last one is to take more breaks</b>. I haven't been on a beach holiday since 2014, and I cannot wait to get the sand between my toes and run into the sea again (and no, British beaches don't count). I need the sun beating down on my skin filling me with vitamin D, a load of good books to read and a great bikini selection to choose from. I'm not even kidding. I need a summer holiday so badly. One of my favourite things to do is to get lost in the world where only a few people know where I am, I can leave my phone, switch off mentally and physically and just be completely content. It's times like that when I am so truly thankful for everything thats got me to where I am, and so yeah, I plan on at least two sun holidays before I turn 30 (I best get saving). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Birthday to any other Cancer's out there all getting another year older this month, let's make this a great year!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-92097739523604852932016-06-26T09:30:00.000+01:002016-06-26T09:30:07.765+01:00Why A Week In The Countryside Is So Worth It<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This week I did something I never usually do. I took a whole week off work and didn't actually go away anywhere. Well, I went home for a few days, but I mean I didn't leave the country, but it felt so nice to have a couple of days, relaxing and just working on me. </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's all part of my <a href="http://www.takingthenicki.co.uk/2016/06/just-do-it-junes-30-day-challenge.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">June #30daychallenge</a> to get back to taking care of myself and this week definitely came at the right time. I'd had a bit of a manic few weeks at work which meant I was feeling quite tired in that sense and I also really needed five minutes to just get up to speed with everything I wanted to do personally; ambitions I wanted to see through with my blog, start getting healthy again after throwing in the towel a few months ago and generally getting some R&R. I'm so happy to say I've done exactly that and spending time at home was so motivating, it's amazing what a few days with mum and country air can do. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I went back home for three nights, and although mum and I had all these plans for what we would do, we actually changed our minds and instead both totally chilled out, relaxed and had quality time together, which is hard sometimes. We went for long walks into the local countryside, for those of you that don't know I grew up in a place called Calne in Wiltshire, which is pretty tiny but has great rambling tracks and walking routes, although obviously when I was growing up I didn't find them that interesting. Now though its great, working up a sweat as we powered up the Downs, or walked through winding tree framed pathways, we even had a bit of a play in the mud until the Horseflies came along which meant we ran away to avoid being bitten alive, shitty little bugs! </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pretty sure this tree could have stared in Lord Of The Rings, Two Towers, can you see his face?</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We also spend a lot of time chatting a cooking which was so much fun and not something we get to do very often. We went to the shops and picked up enough stuff to feed us for a very long time and then set about preparing new recipes neither of us had tried before, each of which we were both pleasantly surprised with (as you may have guessed these were healthy meals, but more on that in a later post). </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes we've had this many a time, but it's still a great breakfast</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That's cauliflower mash...didn't know what to expect, loved it!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So yeah, lots of walking, talking and eating good, healthy food which was just what the doctor ordered, and no mother and daughter time would be complete without being a bit silly with collagen face masks! Who doesn't love looking like some creepy monster whilst also nourishing your skin, and posing for a fair few funny pics to boot?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For the rest of the week I have also continued to pretty much chill out, been for some runs, tried a new gym class (again, I'll fill you in later) and actually catch up with myself, as it can be so easy to put off the little jobs until a later date, but when you do eventually get round to ticking those off your list it's such a good and productive feeling! I'm definitely coming round to the idea of a couple of days off of just doing you, I feel so much more prepared to face the coming weeks and months knowing that I've managed to achieve for *me*, and actually put myself first for a while. It's been a breathe of fresh air and I'd encourage everyone to give it a go at some point, it doesn't necessarily have to be a whole week, but it was definitely time well spent. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-37890012293162591442016-06-19T10:14:00.000+01:002016-06-19T10:14:05.871+01:00Who Knew Duvet Dining Would Be So Much Fun?!<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Have you ever sat there and wondered how great it would be to act like a kid, create your own duvet fort and sit back and relax, whilst dining on delicious food and drinking whatever you fancy? Of course you have, why wouldn't you and how awesome was it that TK Maxx toured a pop up #DuvetDining event round the UK so we could do just that?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDrHRDIK7eZ89xDAASMDpYBnNM0z5aJoY8iQrqCxd5lNU84dCf8a-dPDKpJ-oNv4mM_KvzMlzWLIgZoVg_qlUZyVuTHws619SM7aYsgiVRrRPAwIOLhPzcaBs6vGVCcLV5racBpVABDl3f/s1600/IMG_6228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDrHRDIK7eZ89xDAASMDpYBnNM0z5aJoY8iQrqCxd5lNU84dCf8a-dPDKpJ-oNv4mM_KvzMlzWLIgZoVg_qlUZyVuTHws619SM7aYsgiVRrRPAwIOLhPzcaBs6vGVCcLV5racBpVABDl3f/s640/IMG_6228.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was fortunate to attend one of the events and I can't tell you how much fun it was, all plush and cosy, it gave off such a nice relaxed vibe, coupled with amazing food by Gizzi Erskine and a decent amount of alcohol to go around too. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCnOfAgboE6RYLXfyIwMrad-BqaOlpTDvQYrR5wOOFMxG3eVIY2CE5cDtXRfu5ocx6IqkXwpAeuu5G42uc0x5rG-4mSu-rg2xzefm3yxmhiMN_mJSOY7vhBEmLm7JpMl35uD9zDOZ_ibBQ/s1600/IMG_6208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCnOfAgboE6RYLXfyIwMrad-BqaOlpTDvQYrR5wOOFMxG3eVIY2CE5cDtXRfu5ocx6IqkXwpAeuu5G42uc0x5rG-4mSu-rg2xzefm3yxmhiMN_mJSOY7vhBEmLm7JpMl35uD9zDOZ_ibBQ/s640/IMG_6208.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love it when a brand takes a risk to do something out the ordinary and gets it right when tapping into a fun theme that people actually want to be apart of, and talk about without forcing themselves on you too much. That's exactly what this #DuvetDining event did, it was all about the brand's new proposition,Ridiculous Possibilities, and it is so on the money, it just makes sense. I'm sure all of you have been into TK Maxx (or TJX if you're in America) and you go in for one thing, or perhaps just for a general browse and you end up leaving with the most eclectic mix of items; well that in a nutshell is Ridiculous Possibilities and how the concept of #DuvetDining came about. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's just so simple I love it, and the fact that Gizzi Erskine created the delicious seven course menu as part of the experience was the icing on the cake. I can't even pick a favourite course. Although what I will say, which is very different for me, is that I loved the savoury much more than the sweet, which is very rare. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The clear tomato consummate was amazing. I try to like gazpacho but I do struggle and this cold soup was just delicious, it was light, refreshing and presented in a teapot, I never want to eat soup any other way again! If I had to sum up the soup, it was definitely the most surprising of the dishes.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The goats mousse was also incredible. Goats Cheese is one of my favourite things ever, if it's on the menu, chances are I'm ordering it, and it was so whipped and creamy and the veg slightly pickled which was divine. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then there was the plum meat fruit, which was something I've wanted to try since Heston did it a few years ago. Essentially it was a duck and cherry meat pate, but looked like a cherry. My word, I don't think any other pate I've had has had such a nice flavour!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Finally my last choice would be the Korean Fried Chicken. I've seen Gizzi do this dish a couple of times and I am so glad I got to try it. It was incredible. Spicy, sticky, the perfect mix of the street food sweetness, so delicious, and I don't say that lightly, as I am a huge meat fan, but it's too good, everyone needs to try it to not know about. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsF-pejF9y21VhiMLuQqkEbtsdEL_coUlPJnlf9UlgkkmQm0rZk8_kZm9Ye9NrG8n1LCKOLsDUvehIO5286v2bvJtMI339jL2gQdDisrw8Vu-R9xQiDDTphvKFVixgH3qJPUNKCRvP9l7/s1600/IMG_6204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsF-pejF9y21VhiMLuQqkEbtsdEL_coUlPJnlf9UlgkkmQm0rZk8_kZm9Ye9NrG8n1LCKOLsDUvehIO5286v2bvJtMI339jL2gQdDisrw8Vu-R9xQiDDTphvKFVixgH3qJPUNKCRvP9l7/s640/IMG_6204.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So yeah, it was a really fun, simple but spot on experience (I'm having a few of those lately) and #DuvetDining is certainly something I want to replicate at home for sure! Time to head out and get some more bed sheets and cushions, any excuse!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjDVloENrotuxfOH4YuNTFmzJWK70U_Q_-tbeH_oj8x5CGPIuJ8brgSCVN3M3SWLTaoG5gc8eLtNoLI2IgjBoRlEP7YWzflsnUapzAZGK1Bosa7ekjpHIqa7lT3UZ5TY1mGKieDa9m6sH/s1600/IMG_6194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjDVloENrotuxfOH4YuNTFmzJWK70U_Q_-tbeH_oj8x5CGPIuJ8brgSCVN3M3SWLTaoG5gc8eLtNoLI2IgjBoRlEP7YWzflsnUapzAZGK1Bosa7ekjpHIqa7lT3UZ5TY1mGKieDa9m6sH/s640/IMG_6194.jpg" width="640" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-91987266879509486782016-06-12T11:10:00.005+01:002016-06-12T20:52:15.302+01:00Junkyard Golf - London, Shoreditch <span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Have you ever wanted to play crazy golf amongst loads of junk? Of course you have, who hasn't, I expect that's why the Junkyard Golf pop up in Liverpool Street is doing so well at the moment. </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's a pop up that's come from Manchester, and taking the concept that everyone loves to hit a few balls about in a weird and unusual setting, the guys behind <a href="http://www.junkyardgolfclub.co.uk/#!about-ldn/d2atf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Junkyard Golf</a>, created a really fun and simple activity for Londoners to get involved in. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are three different courses available for you to play, you need to book before you go, and each course costs £9 per person. We were on Frank course, which is the first course you see when you enter downstairs, and it was a great mix of weird and bizarre props set up to make the hitting of the ball into the hole harder and more enjoyable. Like I said, simples, but because no description could do it justice, take a look for yourself. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There were nine holes in total, and the only rubbish thing is that when there are two of you, it doesn't take very long to complete. When we putt-off we were behind a group of of four, but being nice they let us hop in front of them, which meant we actually sped through the next few holes. I'd say that was due to our great skills, but it could also be the simplicity of the courses. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So the competitiveness in me needs to also update you on who won - well I confess that Dan did. I know boo, we never want the boys to win. But in my defence I played a totally brilliant game up until the last two holes, even putting right next to the crocs belly on the first try, I know, I know, you're thinking 'what skill', I've taken a bow already! But alas, when it came to the last two holes, I hadn't realised, or factored in, the thickness of the carpet that we'd be playing on so it slowed down my ball, and the last hole was a total fluke (that's not me being a sore loser either), it was that the last hole depended purely on what number hole your ball fell into and the player with the highest number won! Boo hiss, that's not fair. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Still, I took it on the chin, did as the floor instructed and we headed for a drink in Box Park to chill in the sun, although Dan was feeling rather worse for wear, still hair of the dog and an afternoon sat in the sun is the best cure right? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm not sure how long the pop up is running for, I think it's throughout summer, but if you want to spend £9 on a short nine hole course that is fun to play and gives you lots of photo ops and chances to have a laugh, I'd say pop down. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dan also wrote up his review of the day on his blog www.themansplanation.com too, you may see some duplication of pics, but check out his perspective of it <a href="https://themansplanation.com/2016/05/20/things-to-do-in-london-junkyard-golf/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here. </a></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-8351847810715902872016-06-05T11:11:00.001+01:002016-06-05T17:07:53.292+01:00Just Do It - June's 30 Day Challenge<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">May is now behind us, it's officially summertime (not that you could actually tell right now) and my second 30 day challenge is complete, so now it's on to the next one and I've got a really clear focus of what I want to achieve. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.takingthenicki.co.uk/2016/05/how-im-making-most-of-bank-holiday.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">May's 30 day challenge</a>, for those of you who don't know, was to try and say yes to as much stuff as possible and just get out my own way a bit more, to not be worried if I didn't have a plan, and to ultimately go with the flow as it were. Well I did it, and May was actually the busiest and most fun month I've had in a long time. There were so many <a href="http://www.takingthenicki.co.uk/2016/05/friends-birthdays-and-too-much-love.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">birthdays</a>, and there was my weekend break to <a href="http://www.takingthenicki.co.uk/2016/05/buda-buda-buda-pest-four-girls-one-trip.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Budapest</a> and I loved being so busy, jumping to one thing to the next purely because I was saying yes, rather than no. It was actually quite a liberating experience to be honest and I still have to update you guys on some of what I got up to. But now it's June and it's time to slow the pace down and focus back on 'me' and in particular my health and fitness goals and clearing my mind of unnecessary stresses.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It probably goes without saying that when you say yes to stuff, although it's so much fun, for the most part it ends up revolving around alcohol; a cheeky night out here, a bit of food and drink there, and as I say I loved it, but I have felt the effects massively on my bank balance as well as my body and it is time to switch things up again as that just wasn't sustainable. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I always get really inspired when I do <a href="http://www.takingthenicki.co.uk/2016/01/fit-feb-2016-lets-do-this.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fit Feb</a> too, so I'm reverting to type and committing to a 30 day challenge of doing something related to health, fitness and clarity every day. I'm naming this month 'Just Do It June'. No excuses, just getting on with it. So every day I am going to be doing something to fulfil my body's needs, whether its a gym session, a run, even a walk, eating healthy meals, or not drinking alcohol, even taking time to just unwind and relax my mind. This month, my body is going to be more of a temple than it has been in a while, and I'm going to see what, if any, progress that gives me before my birthday (now only a month away).</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I plan on getting myself at least one personal training session in, upping my gym routine, running a fun run later this month, adding some new healthy meals to my repertoire and may even try and visit a spa for some pampering. I also really want to try a new class and I've got my eye on <a href="http://www.groovecycle.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GrooveCycle</a> so I can stretch my body in new ways. Whatever it is, this month is going to be designed to actually focus on my body and what it needs to feel strong, powerful and positive again. Saying yes to everything like I did in May was definitely all well and good and I am still going to adopt that approach, but within reason. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Aside from the health and body benefits, I am also hoping all of this will help clear my mind, which has been rather crowded with negativity lately. The good thing is, fitness is great for when you've got a lot of stuff you need to work through and then the relaxing and taking care of myself part will all help add to me feeling better about myself in general. After all, when you're looking after yourself its hard to feel as negative as everything feels more positive.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Beyond that, I've also got to start planning my two week holiday in September, I have the time I just need to plan somewhere to go, and I know wherever it is, I am going to need sun, so anything that helps my body look more on point for the beach is a wise move for sure!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm really enjoying committing to these 30 day challenges. It makes whatever I'm trying to achieve seem manageable, and although the challenges aren't groundbreaking, I am achieving and learning things about myself as I go. I've already edited the book Dan and I have written thanks to committing to it in April, I've seen so much of my friends and family and I've put myself out there quite a lot in May, I still have so much to update you guys on, but for now the focus has shifted and it's on to the next one.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-40850549613501181202016-05-29T10:45:00.000+01:002016-05-29T10:45:45.082+01:00Friends, Birthdays and Too Much Love<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The past few weeks have been full of birthday celebrations, which has meant it's been pretty hectic, and I've been jumping from one event to the next but it's also meant I've had the chance to spend my time with some of my favourite people in the world and it's been amazing.</span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I've seen everyone so much recently and I feel closer to them than ever, and as most of us are celebrating the last year of our twenties, there has been a real sense of celebration and friendship, perhaps more so than before. I'm not saying we've all been going crazy either, far from it, but it feels like each birthday brings with it new possibilities, and a sense of hope and dreaming of what the next year will bring before we turn 30. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Because most of us all met at uni, when we were just starting out in the world on our own, there has also been a sense of looking back over the last decade, seeing how far we've come and changed, or not as the case may be.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, because it's been so much fun, I thought I'd show you some of the things we've been up to, from lunch and dinners to nights out. Notice how happy all the birthday girls and guys are, and I love each and every one of them. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Vic's birthday set the tone of 2016 birthdays</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Say cheese</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To my wifey's birthday where she had a house warming to celebrate getting on the property ladder before 29</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnzsJKY1d2-wk1xkfNk6Y4WR36AWpEsKWcpMNtFtDshmeCbyXUKScR36zSnim0bpfdW7aMSKFHtHhFOStL0vX1UXRZ-FElttoO7e-WMLKqP4cKckv-BqsTqw1jQlcn7GSUXcsSHnOk4E3x/s1600/13029567_10100289429330967_8633827539267179930_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnzsJKY1d2-wk1xkfNk6Y4WR36AWpEsKWcpMNtFtDshmeCbyXUKScR36zSnim0bpfdW7aMSKFHtHhFOStL0vX1UXRZ-FElttoO7e-WMLKqP4cKckv-BqsTqw1jQlcn7GSUXcsSHnOk4E3x/s640/13029567_10100289429330967_8633827539267179930_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Romping in Romford should definitely be a TV programme #brainwave </span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Kiran's celebrations at Ping Pong, although we didn't take snaps, she looks stunning overtime I see her, see for yourself</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sandy is one of the sexiest girls I know and she rocked her red birthday dress when we went for cocktails and pizza in Covent Garden, two of our favourite things, and she wowed in her red birthday dress...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Zee's went for a gorgeous lunch at the Ivy Cafe which was everything the doctor ordered, including the best desserts (I'm doing a separate post on this)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTaNEKaaBaSDAZrrQkqGkqdV767gNMW4ZyD-G1xgfDT_L6fRFXT3XN2DHPlUbTeh1lX_Yd5jHS08v35M1SMmy4IliyexAzQMzB0IOMO4UojiRXwJNQs0YyC9PppymnHFNTheITpuuXfMo/s1600/13227729_10100296852774327_6782529990598739503_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTaNEKaaBaSDAZrrQkqGkqdV767gNMW4ZyD-G1xgfDT_L6fRFXT3XN2DHPlUbTeh1lX_Yd5jHS08v35M1SMmy4IliyexAzQMzB0IOMO4UojiRXwJNQs0YyC9PppymnHFNTheITpuuXfMo/s640/13227729_10100296852774327_6782529990598739503_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pooch got everyone together for a birthday dinner with friends and family. The smile on her face tells you how many of her birthday wishes have come true...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrM-3lUB3P90D4Ih0wiTDwoGSWIQvTqirPJDXrUDpcLUYiro4vzp0MD1psitkQy9HWhFHH_6yEKperuwWtwtg24MCrlt_bsytUwLuvk2fu1RNMOmbg-K7B-6nOnXb_5nvEVLabeoS_qcY/s1600/13254838_10100298980525297_4949745898690649900_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrM-3lUB3P90D4Ih0wiTDwoGSWIQvTqirPJDXrUDpcLUYiro4vzp0MD1psitkQy9HWhFHH_6yEKperuwWtwtg24MCrlt_bsytUwLuvk2fu1RNMOmbg-K7B-6nOnXb_5nvEVLabeoS_qcY/s640/13254838_10100298980525297_4949745898690649900_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Vee finally celebrated his birthday after having a few years off the grid and picked a bar in Bank which left us all partying the night away until gone 4, and resulted in me having one of the worst hangovers ever the next day</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Raj, the smoothest of the smooth took it classy and sophisticated for his James Bond themed 30th birthday house party. To say everyone was on point was an understatement, look at how suave and sophisticated the birthday boy is</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And to finish it off there was Lou's awesome night of dancing and too many good tunes</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That gives you a bit of an insight into some of what I've been up to lately anyway, so many birthdays and so many friends that I've loved spending every second around. There is nothing like being with your friends when life gives you lemons because these guys cut them up, add them to the vodka and lemonade and hit the dance floor. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-75988539278584656262016-05-22T11:28:00.000+01:002016-05-22T11:28:34.823+01:00The Importance Of Taking Time For Myself<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today has been the day I've been looking forward to for weeks, because I have absolutely no plans, apart from chilling out and I am so ready to just chill out, unwind and give myself some much needed R&R.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The last few weeks have been totally mental, I've been working hard and then partying even harder which has been so much fun, but with everything else that's going on at the moment I feel like now is a really good time to stop, take stock and just chill the hell out. There is only so long you can keep going at 100 miles an hour, and I think that I have eventually reached my limit. Now I plan on having a week where I try and look after my body, as with the increase in social events there has been a decrease in my general health and fitness and I can really see the effects. All I can think about is how nice it will be to be fit and healthy again</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and getting myself back on the road to success, meaning getting back into the gym (yep, again!), prepping my meals for work and being in bed by 10:30 on a school night. I know my body will thank me for it and I think it will also help clear my mind, process stuff and hopefully provide some much needed clarity. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As for today however, it's all about total indulgence and setting the president for the upcoming week, so it's all about the pampering. First things first will be cleaning the flat (yep, messy flat, messy mind!), then a trip to the gym to start as I mean to go on. Then when I'm back, it's all about butterflying myself. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I bought two below face masks from H&M in Budapest and I have been waiting for the perfect time to try them out. I've not seen them over here, but there were so many options to choose from, so I opted for Charcoal and Pumice to help exfoliate and revive tired skin and Coconut Water to moisturise. Today will require some exfoliation for sure though. I've also got an Argan Oil hair mask which I intend on slathering on and then sitting to do my nails which are in definite need of some TLC.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A chilled day nesting wouldn't be complete without a good chick-flick of some kind too, either that or I may break out SATC as its been a while since I caught up with Carrie and the girls. </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So on that note, enough writing I need to crack on my with my day of R&R, hope you're all having good Sundays. </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-65553937048121688932016-05-16T21:23:00.002+01:002016-05-16T21:24:30.861+01:00Buda, Buda, Buda Pest - Four Girls, One Trip<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If ever you need to go on holiday to completely let your hair down, throw out the rule book and not throw all your money away with it, I would definitely recommend going to Budapest! I went with three friends recently and had such a blast that I have been recommending it to everyone I've spoken to, and now I want to show you why, so grab a cuppa and see for yourself.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were there for three nights and managed to fit in a mix of sightseeing, walking around the city and exploring on our own, visiting multiple bars and restaurants and then also partying away the night in some of the clubs. It was just what the doctor ordered as I think all four of us were in need of a blow out for one reason or another, and Buda, or Pest in particular didn't disappoint. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">OK, so start from the beginning. We flew by Whizz Air, I'd never heard of them before, but the flights were cheap, the only down side is that you did have to pay for cabin baggage in the overhead (cheek!) but if you were able to fit it under thereat in front of you, it was free. It forced us to pack light in any case, and actually we all still came away with things we didn't wear. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">We stayed in an <a href="https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/12144481" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Air B&B</a> and Noemi was a great hostess, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #565a5c;">the apartment was clear and sufficient with everything we needed, and was in </span><span style="color: #444444;">an amazing location just down the road from </span><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g274887-d668397-Reviews-Szimpla_Kert-Budapest_Central_Hungary.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #444444;" target="_blank">Simpla Kert</a><span style="color: #444444;">, the most popular ruin bar in Budapest which meant we were in a really popular part of town.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the Friday when we landed we dumped our bags and headed straight back out the door to explore and get some food - (4am wake ups are never fun). One thing we learnt, never order a glass of wine whilst you're in Budapest, they are awful portions, it's like half of a small glass of wine over here and it's not worth the money when the bottles are so cheap! Aside from that beer and wine generally were the cheapest things to drink wherever you went, but spirits were still fairly cheap and they free pour which is always convenient. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The general architecture of the city was beautiful, a real mix of pre-war building, multiple ruined and dilapidated buildings and then brand new structures right next to it which was totally juxtaposed to everything else on the street. We stayed on the Pest side of the city which was full of bars, restaurants and clubs, and is where we spent most of our time exploring, from St Stephens Basilica which had amazing views of the city, and Hero Square, which was also stunning. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We did venture over to the Buda side too, we hopped on the tour bus (turns out they are freezing up on the top deck and drive too fast for you to actually take any decent pictures that don't have lampposts ruining your shots) and visited Buda Castle and then wondered back down and over Chain Bridge. If I went back again (which I 100% think I would) I would go and see more of the Buda side of the city though. It was so steep, with lots of side streets and and random twists and turns, you could probably spend your whole day wondering down and filling your camera with interesting shots. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Everything we did was interspersed with pit stops in one bar or another too, when he alcohol is that cheap and the sun is shining, it would be rude not to obviously, so we did get to see a lot of bars. We visited Simplika every day too, starting every night there because it was so close to our apartment, and then heading off to various other parts of town, to other ruin bars, clubs and pool parties even. Wherever we went there were tons of Stag and Hen parties too, who knew that Budapest was such a popular spot for them? Well now you do, and its totally because the alcohol is cheap and there is so much fun to be had in and around the city. Even if you are visiting the pubs / bars, they are all ruin bars which means they have weird structures and still have the cavernous feel which just adds to the magic of it all and encourages you to let your hair down. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Apart from drinking in the various bars around town, we also went to a nightclub named Hello Baby, it was the only R&B club in the city, so worth a go if you're into that, and we had also bought tickets to a pool party on the Saturday. All I can say is it was an experience, it was like partying in a jacuzzi with lots of drunk and horny people. The plan was to go on to another club after that too, but by the time it kicked out, we all looked like drowned rats, despite all the good intentions at the start of the evening. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All I can say is Budapest is now officially one of my favourite getaways, cheap, cheerful and full of fun and interesting things to see, Budapest, you will be missed, but we will be back, somehow I feel like we only just scratched the surface! <span id="goog_522380464"></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1772154078735888366.post-51881495700976964392016-05-08T09:30:00.000+01:002016-05-08T09:30:25.367+01:00Why I'm Dying To Get Outta Here!<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OK, so the title may be a slight exaggeration but I do feel desperate for a holiday, and thank goodness I have one. I 'ummed' and 'ahhed' about what post to write today, but rather than force out some content which perhaps didn't feel quite fitting, I chose to focus on the here and now, and that is me, wine in hand (don't judge) sitting down and taking stock of how much has happened this year, whilst totally letting my hair down in a new city.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As you're reading this, I'm in Budapest enjoying a well earned break with some of my girls, full of sun, fun and a fair bit of friskiness. I'm so glad to have been able to get away, as I'm usually terrible at planning holidays at this time of year, putting them off for some unbeknownst reason and then get to the point where feel like I've burnt out. Well, that point has come, sooner than usual, but I packed my mini bag (so I don't have to pay for extra on Whizz Air) and I'm here. </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hopefully I'll come back relaxed, refreshed and reinvigorated to take on new challenges. Luckily good mates, good booze and a good view is a pretty good antidote to help reignite the flame! </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Travelling, and seeing Europe in particular, (as it is right on our doorstep) is something I also put on my goals list for this year and its definitely something I am keen to achieve. As a result I'm also looking at lining up holidays for June / July and then a bigger holiday in September. I've booked two weeks off and at the moment am unsure of where to go, perhaps Mexico, or maybe somewhere else far afield, who knows, but until I decide I'm going to keep adding anything and everything to my <a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/takingthenicki/travel-board/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Travel</a> Pinterest board (well that's a bit of a lie, I have about eight travel boards I spread them across, but fyou get my drift). If you have any suggestions of where to go for a nice two week va-cay, please do let me know too, as all I can think about at the moment is where my next holiday is going to be. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So that's it, short and sweet from me this week but stay tuned for a full report on Budapest, what I've been getting up to and what I've learnt about the city I currently know very little about.</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10207538624594907779noreply@blogger.com0