I'm a Teacher Now (and other updates)

So the whole keeping up with this while being a trainee teacher did not happen.... it was hard man!

I have now completed the course and am a fully qualified science teacher with a job and everything! I honestly am as surprised as everyone else in my life seems to be that I actually did this and (shock, horror) enjoyed it!

So what now?

Well I'm currently on my summer holidays (hurrah!) which is why I have found the time to sit down and put my fingers back to the keys. I'll be starting my first teaching job in September which is both exciting and poop my pants terrifying. I know that at least for the next month I will definitely be able to keep updating this blog and fingers crossed be doing things that are worthy of sharing with you. This next year is going to be extremely hard work and although I would love to really get this blog off the ground I worry that spare time will be tricky to find. Having said that this could be the perfect excuse to unwind and relieve the inevitable stress that comes with teaching, I'm crossing every possible body part that I will find the time to write at least once a week. Send me your positive and motivational energy please.

What can you expect from me?

Honestly I have no idea! If you have read any of my past posts you will note that I've never had any resemblance of a theme which I think is probably why I've failed miserably to make this an actual blog with regular posts.
Over the past few weeks there have been some changes and I think this is probably what my blog is going to be all about.... life style posts and stuff that interests me. Sound okay?
I have begun my journey back into veganism after massively falling off the wagon.... multiple times. This time however I am so freaking motivated that it will stick... IT WILL.
I've started doing regular exercise... yeah me!
My plan is also to make this summer a spiritual one. I have been fascinated by wicca and nature religions for a long time and so will be delving deeper into that with this free time I seem to have found for myself.

It's been and hopefully will continue to be, a year of change and growth so that's what I want to focus on and share with you...... come join the adventure!

x

Where Have I Been?!?!?!

It's been TIME and oh wow, this feels very strange.

My life has been somewhat of a whirlwind these past few months and so my blog (and pretty much all social media) has been put well and truly on the back burner.

Sorry 'bout that.

Buuuuut turns out I crazy miss it all!

So this is my attempt at getting something out there when I actually have a few minutes spare. In truth I have work I should be doing but I'm pretty darned ill and that's a good enough excuse to not be doing it, right?

Why have I been so busy lately I hear you ask? Well as mentioned in previous posts such as this one I applied to do a PGCE and turns out a university wanted me. I'm as surprised as you are!

So I quit my job of nearly 3 years (best feeling in the world!) and went back to school at the start of September and since then it's been crazy. I'm still unsure if it's a good crazy or not.

Whether this turns out to be the best or not so best choice I've made it's happening and I'm going with it. Wish me luck and I'll keep you updated I have no doubt!

Now when going into teaching, social media is a bit of a land mine so I'm aware that if I really want to keep doing this I'll have to step delicately. Hopefully not much will actually have to change on here but just in case you notice anything a bit different that's what's going on!

x

Now You See Me.

So I looked up some blogging prompts after a bit of a dry spell and one suggestion was"Now you see me" and I know the point was to write a blog post but for some reason this is what I made of it.....
I've never really written anything or released anything to the public like this before but 2016 is about taking risks and doing new things so here it is. Now I shall go run and hide. K thanks bye.


I am weak
I am scarred
I am insecure
I am broken

Now you see me

I should be positive
I should be smart
I should be confident
I should be strong

Now you see me

I want to be optimistic
I want to be creative
I want to be free
I want to be happy

Now you see me

I can be brave
I can be smart
I can be confidant
I can be at peace

Now you see me

I will be passionate
I will be motivated
I will be important
I will become whole

Now I see me.

December Favourites.

So it's been a while and I'm sorry.
Christmas kind of took it out of me and I feel a bit flat and deflated at the moment so my apologies for that but I am going to try and get back into the swing of actually doing things.

Here is my very belated December favourites!

- Starting Youtube (again!) -
I have done a few YouTube videos in the past but never genuinely liked them. I wrote a whole post on it over here but if you fancy watching them (can't promise how regular they will be) head over to my page.

- Booking Holidays -
In one month I managed to book two holidays for 2016. One with my friends to Tenerife and one with my sister, a cruise round the med, I can't wait as I seriously need to get away soon! Bring on the cocktails.

- AHS Coven -
I've already done a post about this show so of course it was going to be in my favourites. Honestly this show is the best thing I have watched in  a very long time.

- Longleat Light Festival -
This happens every year at Longleat Safari Park, I was lucky enough to go last year and we decided to go again this time around. Longleat is an amazing place to go on a normal day, zoos and wildlife parks are essential for conservation and education but Longleat is a safari park and every single animal has ample space and appears to be cared for in the best possible way. Let's be honest we've all been to zoos that leave us feeling a little sad..... Longleat also has beautiful gardens and a stunning house you can look round.
Each winter Longleat adds a Chinese light show to all this and is really is quite a spectacle. Large, life size animals are glowing all around the grounds as well as flowers that tower over your heads and huge dragons that breath steam. If you get the chance to go I highly recommend it.

- Christmas -
Although a somewhat obvious choice for December it's got to be put in the list!
I love Christmas, it's always been my favourite holiday and although this year it took me a little while to actually feel festive the 4 days over which we celebrated with family were amazing. Being cosy inside  with your loved ones, drinking a little too much and eating your body weight in cheese is always a great way to end the year.

So here's to a adventurous 2016!

x

Saying goodbye.

Today I had the second of my three pet rats put to sleep. That's two within 3 weeks. We also had to have our cat Harry put to sleep less than two months ago.
When you become a pet owner you know it's not forever, you understand that you will out live these animals most of the time by many years but it doesn't make it easier when letting them go.

As I have been left with a solitary rat, D'artagnan, I have decided to try and re-home him with another owner who has multiple rats already. Rats are group animals and require constant support and interaction with others. Had he been old I may have considered keeping him alone but he could live another year and a half and it's just not fair to make him spend that time on his own.

I do have the option to get other rats to keep him company but I'm not sure I'm in the right position in my life to get more. They are an expense, if I'm being honest I didn't spend enough time with the rats I had and it would be wrong to get more, plus I'm hoping to move out of my parents house sometime in the future and rental properties rarely allow pets and I wouldn't want to give up multiple rats just to move. So I'm going to try and find him somewhere to live that will mean he gets a nice, clean home, an owner that handles him regularly and lots of other rats to keep him company.

I never expected to go from 7 pets to 3 in such a short amount of time .... it's been pretty heart breaking and all around shit. But that's the deal you make when adopting pets, it's your responsibility to do your best by them and accept the pain of letting them go.

x

October and Me.

The mystical entity has returned. Yes I have finally sat my ass down with a cup of tea, Pointless on the tele and the fire burning which can only mean it's time to let my fingers do a little work out on the keys again.

It's been some time and if you have read any of my past posts you may guess why I've been absent in the world of blogging and pretty much all social media. I have become severely anaemic again which if you didn't know is a low level of iron and red blood cells (if you did know I'm sorry but carry on reading as I'm sure it'll eventually you'll come across something less repetitive!). This means there is much less oxygen getting around my body than it would like - that's the rather important role that red blood cells play. Oxygen is vital for normal respiration and general bodily functioning so being anaemic leaves the sufferer feeling like they've just run a marathon, up a mountain, with a small child on their back when in reality you've only just woken up .... oh and there's the super fun side effect of the constant headache and feeling all kinds of dizzy.

This isn't supposed to be a woe is me kind of ramble though and I know you might be sick to the back teeth of hearing about it because I know I am! I did feel like I owed an explanation though so there it is. Now that's done shall we move on?
I have been wanting to do this for a very, very long time but only now have I truly felt able to. Plus I have the motivation which is so nice to have back that I honestly can't wait to get back into the swing of this.

A hell of a lot of things have happened since we last spoke - I was on TV (yes I'm as surprised as you are), passed my driving test, been to Norway and a host of other incredible things which I will be updating you on over the next few days. The true inspiration for opening up my website again though was because October has already been and is set to continue to be a busy, tiring but amazing month. I can't wait to share what I'll be getting up to and hope you find it at least a little interesting to read about. Plus I always seem to be way more excited and energised about everything in the Autumn. Yes I know it's a complete internet cliche to love autumn but I unashamedly admit here and now I ADORE AUTUMN.
My body as a rule struggles with any sort of extreme weather, in summer I get heatbumps and in winter my hands get so dry they start to split .... delightful isn't it? Autumn is the only season I get some reprieve, plus Halloween and the lead up to Christmas are my favourite things to got overly enthusiastic about (yes I know Christmas is in winter but you can't be too early in preparation).

Let me know if you're an autumn person or prefer another time of year!
Let's chat soon.

x

A Lovely Weekend.

I have struggled to make myself write a post this week because of a few what I call BMHDs (bad mental health days - we all have these days when we don't feel quite ourselves, maybe a bit tired or low, and I think they are a perfectly good excuse for not being able to do things!)

But as I am trying to keep this blog a place of positivity I want to talk about my weekend because it was pretty awesome and nothing brings you out of a slump than thinking about the good times you've had. I actually thought it was going to be a really chilled few days as for the past couple of months I seem to have always had things to do at the weekends and this time I had zero plans
On Friday evening me, my mum and my sister watched Disneys Hercules together because that's how we roll.
Saturday I had my make up test done for my friends wedding because I'm going to be bridesmaid! It'll be my first ever experience of being a bridesmaid so expect another post about that!!

I never really wear much make up at all, a little bit of eyeliner and mascara and that's it so it was very strange to have a full face on! I actually found the process kind of relaxing, I did look a bit like a doll at the end though!
The bride to be and one of the other bridesmaids came with me which was lovely as we all got to discuss what we thought of the look and all the plans for the big day.

My family then had a BBQ that evening as my parents ended up not being able to go away in their caravan as the car gave up the ghost, leaving them with a load of left over bbq food! Of course we couldn't let it go to waste!

We then as a family watched The Incredibles which once again is because we are all very grown up.

Sunday was unplanned but we decided to take the dog for a walk somewhere a bit different and get a pub lunch. Whilst choosing where to venture we thought it would be nice to bring along my Grandma as well.
We went and picked her up and drove to an adorable little town where we had an INCREDIBLE meal!

It was called The Waterwitch and I had a vegetarian fish and chips... what in the hell is one of those I hear you ask?
Well it's chips (duh) and instead of fish it's battered and fried haloumi cheese and honestly I can't describe how tasty it was. Extremely unhealthy granted but I like to think that what's not good for the weight is good for the soul. I don't have a photo of the food as I may have got a little carried away and ate the whole thing before thinking!

Everyone enjoyed their food and after eating we headed down to the canal and strolled along there for a bit - making friends with some cows on the way .... my dog did not enjoy this part so much as he is utterly terrified of them.

We got home at about 5pm and chilled for the rest of the evening and it was just over all a really amazing weekend full of sunshine, pimms, good food and family.

Hope your weekend is just as good as mine was!

x

Awesome Of The Week | Sisterly nights out.

FYI none of these are my sister!

Last night I was supposed to be going to the cinema with two of my friends but when one of them flaked in the afternoon we didn't go (meaning still no Jurassic Park for me, I'm very sad about this).
I mentioned this in passing to my older sister just as she was going out the door in her glad rags to meet a work colleague for a meal out.

Whilst eating their dinner both my sister and her friend decided they wanted to move on to somewhere with drinks and dancing! My sister then text me saying I was more than welcome to join them as I had now been left with bugger all to do on a Friday night.
At first I was unsure - buses had stopped as I live in the arse end of nowhere so they stop at about 8pm and also taxis are fairly expensive. I decided to message both the guys I would have been seeing the film with to ask if they wanted to join me for some drinks etc.
Toby, who was the friend still intending to go to the cinema, replied and wanted to come along but as he had things to do in the morning would drive and not stay too late. Win for me as that way I wouldn't need a taxi - woo hoo.

So he came and picked me up we headed to the pub where we were meeting up with the girls to find they weren't there.....
Turns out they'd bumped into my sisters friends on the way and got caught up chatting and also noticing her ex was out and it was the first time she'd seen him since they broke up. Just so you know he's a massive douche bag.

Once they found us and we had some drinks we obviously hit the dance floor and the tunes were being blasted my friend. They had everything from a live band playing Jungle Book songs and Bruno Mars and then once they left stage we enjoyed a bit of MJ, Beyonce and Grease medleys. Basically everything I would want on a night out!

Toby had to leave at about midnight and the ex made it a tad awkward by being weird but all the friends he was with were lovely. They danced and chatted and the whole night was amazing.

I don't know if it's just me but I always find that spontaneous plans always seem to end up being the best. Perhaps it's because any that you organise and think about too much have way too much pressure and expectations surrounding them and it inevitably doesn't live up to them

We stayed out until 2 and oh my did we crack out the moves. So spending time with my sister is awesome, which I knew anyway but it's always nice to share!

x

Bonus picture for you:

Being Sick.

I am currently off work with what can only be described as the grossy gross lurgy.
I have been feeling drained and a bit rubbish for a couple days now and had to properly debate going to work or not - I'm one of those people that always feels guilty about letting people down and have only had 2 days off in two years. This added to the fact that I recently took annual leave during the busiest time of the month for my job aaaand I have had to do the same for next month made it a tougher choice than normal.

There are times though when it gets to the point where your health is more important. I did not sleep well due to my reduced ability to breath and woke up feeling even worse than yesterday. I got myself out of bed and mulled over getting ready for work but I have run myself down and if I don't allow for rest I'll end up needing even more time off - taking the day should mean I'm more equipped for tomorrow.

So many people hate calling in sick and worry about the consequences but I am here to tell you that every single human being gets ill and needs to take time for themselves. Listen to your body and learn what it needs whether that be a kick up the butt to just get on with things or a serious sit down to rid you of any sicky demons that might be hanging around. You don't have to feel guilty or like your causing issues for other people regardless of how hectic your job might be or if someone might need to pick up a little of your work. In the long run if you don't allow time you will run yourself into the ground and end up at a place that takes a hell of a lot more effort and time to come back from.

Allow yourself to get better.

Take time.

Feel well.

x

Getting Personal.

I don't mention personal stuff very often on this blog which means you don't know much about me and I want that to change

I still consider myself a newbie to this blogging malarky, but I see lots of people in the blogosphere getting to know each other and forming relationships so my way of doing this and getting involved is by opening up to you a little.

1. Do you have a middle name?
Yes, it's Louise - possibly one of the most common English middle names.

2. What was your favorite subject in school?
Oooooh that’s tricky, I liked most of them really..... I was rubbish at maths though! 

If I had to pick one it would probably be either Science or English but that’s likely more a judgment on the teachers I had than the actual subject!

3. What’s your favorite drink?

I very rarely actually drink it but perhaps iced tea! Although I am English so love a good warm cuppa too.

4. What’s your favorite song at the moment?
Right now probably Get Over It by McBusted. I’m on a bit of a positivity kick and nothing makes me feel more empowered at this moment than belting out a cheesey tune!!

I could listen to most Del Amitri songs over and over BUT it is utterly inconceivable to expect me to choose one song as a favourite!

5. What would you name your children?
I haven’t given kids names any thought, I think I’m too fickle and change my mind all the time. The only thing I am certain of is if I have children and one is a boy his middle name will be Barry. Yeah I know he’ll hate it but it’s the name of both my granddads so he can suck it up.

6. Do you participate in any sports?
Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhahaha.

I did pole dancing a little while back and adored it so I am hoping to get back to that but that's really the only sport I have ever actually enjoyed doing.

7. What’s your favorite book? 
Right now it’s All I Know Now by Carrie Hope Fletcher but that’s only because I’ve literally just finished it. I can’t really choose just one favourite.

I am a little way through "Traitors Blade" by sebastian De Castell (which is an awesome name by the way!) and really digging it so far.

I would recommend anything by Nora Roberts or Darren Shan as well.

8. What’s your favorite colour?
YELLOW. It just always makes me smile, it’s sunshiney and happy and sometimes we need that in our lives!

9. What’s your favorite animal?
Nope I refuse to make this decision there are so many animals and they are all pretty incredible.

I do have a bit of a soft spot for otters, elephants and Komodo Dragons though. 

10. What’s your favorite perfume?
I don’t wear any. I so stinky.

11. What’s your favorite holiday?
Christmas by FAR. 

I’m not religious so for me Christmas is a family holiday and I cherish spending the day with them all, eating a somewhat disgusting amount of food that would never be acceptable at any other time of the year and everyone being so jolly as it just seems to bring it out in people.

12. Have you graduated from High School?
I have a degree in Biology!

13. Have you been out of the country?
Yeah a number of times in my life and I consider myself very lucky to have had those opportunities and have some incredible memories with my family.

14. Do you speak any other languages?
I studied Spanish at school, got a B at GCSE and can’t remember a damned thing now.

15. Do you have any siblings?
One older sister and she’s rather amazing. Amy and she's 25 - I imagine I will tell you about her more at another time.

16. What’s your favorite store?
I’m not a massive shopper  but right now I suppose maybe Whole Foods. I ventured there on a visit to London with my friend and it was full of delicious health foods – perfect for anyone wanting to eat a wholesome diet or with dietary requirements.

Oh but Forbidden Planet is geeky and eclectic and all kinds of perfect. If you’re a fan of any cult fandoms or want to explore a library of graphic novels please go to this shop.

17. What’s your favorite restaurant?

 I like food far too much to make one single choice but take me to Wagamamas and I will be extremely happy.

18. Do you like school? 
When I was there yeah I liked it, there were moments which I’m sure you’ve encountered that aren’t so fun but over all I look back fondly on school.

19. Who are some of your favorite YouTubers?
Dan and Phil, Pewdipie, Tyler Oakley, Mamrie Hart, SMOSH, Bunny, Daniel J Layton, WOTO (I miss you Liam), Hannah Witton, Carrie Fletcher oh gosh there are so many! 

Also one of my ultimate faves is a guy called Ant and I have no doubt you will love his videos as much as I do - https://www.youtube.com/user/heavyhandedvlogs

20. What’s your favorite movie? 
I dislike this question!

Lord of The Rings/ The Hobbit but really anything Disney, Marvel, action, comedy, supernatural and occasional romance. I'm easy going when it comes to films, I want to watch every trailer I see and I become a little obsessed so end up watching the same ones over and over again.

21. What are some of your favorite TV shows?
Game of Thrones, The Big Bang Theory, Masterchef, Coach Trip, The Mentalist (Patrick Jane if you please!), Firefly, American Horror Story, Supernatural, The Vampire Diaries, Ouran High School Host Club – in the same way as films I get a tad crazy over characters and living vicariously through shows.

22. PC or Mac?
As long as it works I’m good to go!

23. What phone do you have?
Samsung Galaxy S2 but I am in dire need of my upgrade right now.

24. How tall are you?
4”11

No that’s not a typo I am genuinely teeny tiny!

25. Any pets?
A dog - Jack, 3 cats – Toby, Harry and Maggie (Maggie is actually the niece of Harry) and 3 rats – D’artagnan, Tyrion and Samwise.

It would be AMAZING if you wanted to answer these questions too so we can all really listen to and learn about each other. Also if there's anything you think I've missed feel free to ask. I want my blog to be a way of expressing myself but mostly finding like minded people and the only way to do that is to let you into my mind! I hope this isn't considered a cop out but it seemed like a nice idea!

X 

I Think I Might Be An Adult.

Have you ever had that moment when you stop, look at your life and realise you might, possibly, be a little bit of a grownup? Well recently I've experienced a lot of these moments and let me tell you I don't think I like it!

Here are a few things that have left me feeling like I need to watch a Disney film, surrounded by my cats and cuddly toys while stuffing my face with all manner of unhealthy, sugar filled sweets, cake and/or popcorn then afterwards blow a big ol' raspberry at the world and shout "NO. I REFUSE TO BE THIS MATURE ADULTY THING YOU THINK I AM"


Getting called lady/miss or any derivative of these words.
Now before the negative side there actually is a bonus to this one because at first it makes me feel a little regal and princessy. However when it's a parent referring to you as one of these to their child it's not so fun. It makes me think that this actual grown up considers me to be on their level and that is not a responsibility I signed up for!



My tastes have changed.
I like dark chocolate now people (... and nuts)! I'm not sure exactly when it happened or why but I actually quite enjoy the taste... especially if it's dispersed with raspberries.This might seem like a fairly insubstantial change but I never even considered liking it as a kid, it was one of those things that I definitely saw as "adult".

I work every day.
Now this isn't too much of a shock to the system as we are used to being at school every day but the difference is if you're tired or just not feeling it you still have to do it... and do it properly.
No resting heads on arms and making it look like you're completely engrossed in the text book that happens to be in front of you. No slyly using your phone under the desk because your attention span just can't cope with the lesson (which by the way teachers know 100% what you're doing because no one looks at their crotch and smiles for no reason.... or if you do then you might want to talk to someone).
You're getting paid to not only be there but complete everything asked of you so you kinda have to put in the effort now and if that's not maturity then I don't know what is!

Tax.
So I'm finally working and earning money, that's great right? Then along comes that little bugger that takes a ma-hoosive chunk of my pay every month. Clearly I knew about this prior to my employment from the muffled moans of older people around me already suffering the pain. But like so many before me I was unprepared for just how much it would hurt and now I am one of those "old" people that shakes my fist getting irate about the government taking liberties! (which in reality we appreciate because it means health care and retirement and all that boring stuff that's actually super important and useful).


I am not afraid to answer the phone.
Okay so it should probably be I am less afraid, as the sound of a phone ringing still turns my brain to mush so when I have to speak I become a bit of an incoherent babble-goblin.
I have to answer the phone at work every day and the prospect of not knowing what I will be asked is something that would have terrified the hell out of me a few years ago but now I deal with it and afterwards realise that hey it wasn't so bad and I managed to help that person! Growing in confidence is a prominent sign of getting older - but a nice one!



I might be in my twenties and seen as a fully grown human BUT I vow to remain the person that holds her pen like a moustache because it's more interesting plus leaves both hands free for typing, laughs at the surname Shakeshaft (yes I met someone with this name.. sorry but it's a little funny), has stuffed toys, super hero notepads along with pictures of strong female Disney characters around her work desk and loves nothing more than her unicorn onesie and a chocolate milkshake.

Some of these points might seem a little detrimental to the general enjoyment of life so before you have a break down and spend the rest of your life searching for pixie dust to get to Neverland I will hastily add that being considered an adult does have many, many benefits - which I'm sure we'll chat about at another time!

x

A Re-Jig and Whole New Blog Schedule.

Firstly the re-jig - The change you may have noticed if you've visited before is right at the top of the page. Yup I have changed the name of the blog!
Colourmyworld is a username I have always associated with and is in the URL of this page so it made sense to link it all in!

Secondly the schedule - I am fully aware that I'm rubbish at posting regularly, now the more I have thought about it the more I realise I need a proper structure. It seemed like such a good and easy idea to have no plan, it means I can post about whatever I fancy at any point in the week - gives me time and options right?

Wrong!

All it does is leave me with too many choices (I'm not a decisive person!) and a whole load of excuses to not get it done! So I have convinced myself that by coming up with a plan for at least a couple posts a week it might get me into a more organised and creative head space! So the future of ColourMyWorld will go as follows -

Tuesday = Tunes For Tuesday #TFT
Fairly self explanatory and anyone that knows me to any degree will be aware of my love of listening to music. From now every Tuesday I will share a song that I have played way too many times and fallen head over heels in love with. I warn you it's not likely to be anything new or honestly even in the charts but if it is new to me or I have rekindled my love for it you bet your ass you'll hear about it!

Thursday = General Post
Well .... um... it'll be general.
Ever changing probably with very little structure, I still need some spontaneity!

Sunday = Awesome Of The Week #AOTW
If you have read my blog you will already know how this one works. If you are new this is an old series I had that now will have a specific day of the week to go up which should (hopefully) ensure I actually do it. If something has sparked my interest, caught my eye or just made me smile then it will go here, in essence it is just to spread some extra awesome into the world and share it all with you!

Although these might not seem like massive changes, for me I feel like they will make an invaluable difference to my blogging abilities. I'm making a conscious effort to really get the blog running .... and keep it that way.

So here's to the future and actually having an idea of what this blog is about!

x

Feeling Appreciated.

I hope this post doesn't sound self-gratifying in any way but I want to chat about a lesson I learned recently.

I've mentioned before how the job I have isn't exactly what I had in mind when I left uni or something I saw longevity in, but every so often I realise that perhaps sticking it out isn't necessarily the same as settling.

In the appraisal I had with my boss this week we had the usual discussion of how I'm getting on, that I'm happy and apparently I can do my job somewhat well, which is always nice to know.
When I started here I was told that my position in the company would change, my boss wanted to make the most of the degree I have but I've been working there for 1.5 years and although my job role has changed slightly it hasn't necessarily progressed. I think this is what has led me to feel like I'm stuck at a point in my life that I'm not happy with.
That changed this week though as I have officially been told that I'll be getting more responsibility in a different position next month and that my future at the company could lead to a consultant job which obviously would be brilliant (BUT it is not a done deal and will take time!). This would mean there's a chance for me to have a more senior role and hopefully with that earn a little more money.

Even though it's not the type of work I was initially interested in or passionate about the people that I work with and for often keep me wanting to stay there.
There is no guarantee of where I will end up even if I stay at this job or move on but it's strange how one day can really make you contemplate your future plans, even if it's only looking a few years ahead. It's definitely going to make me have to seriously think about how I do my travelling!

I guess it goes to show that you never know what is going to happen and how much something as simple as being told you are appreciated and that someone thinks you have potential can mean.

I think everyone should aim to show their appreciation for other people a lot more frequently because the smallest gestures are normally the most important.

x

Curing My Wanderlust.

I made a final decision to forget moving to my own place, changing my job or buying myself all manner of unnecessary things and just save. The plan being that the saving will lead to a trip to end all trips.

I have wanted to travel, and I mean properly travel, for years now but haven't been able to due to money, time and education/work commitments. But no more. I was sat on Sunday morning a little fuzzy brained from lack of sleep and asked myself "What's stopping you?". Turns out not much.

I have the chance to save now as I work full time and live at home so money spent on bills/rent/food is minimal, also the job I have now, although good isn't exactly what I imagine doing for a long amount of time  (don't get me wrong I will not complain about being in full time employment)..... In the end the one and only excuse I could think up was that I might not have anyone to go with. Most of my friends have rent to pay, work commitments and other boring adult things to deal with. Obviously I hope that I will find someone willing to come along on the journey with me because it's always better when you experience things with a friend but if not I'm doing it anyway and going solo!
It's a scary thought, being all on my own in a load of unknown countries but I realised that I can't let it hold me back from doing something I've dreamed of for years and years. I'm a strong believer that you regret the things you don't do more than the ones you actually do.

In order to organise, plan and choose my destinations for this adventure and probably a lot of future ones I am creating a new page for this blog.
Any time I think of a country, town, city or person I want to visit I shall add it to the list. Once I have been there it will be put into bold and linked to photos and a post all about what happened there. This is primarily a selfish plan to help me collate all the ideas I have and end up with somewhere all the memories are stored so I can go there and re-live them whenever I fancy it. However a secondary purpose is that it might be of interest to others, reading about the things I get up to plus I would love suggestions of places you've been that were good enough to share.


So here's to adventure, I know it's out there and I plan to find it.

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Crafting... Sort Of.

I've never written about something I've made before as I'm not artistically gifted in any shape or form and even though I would love to I rarely have the time to do any big, serious projects.

For Christmas my sister bought me a super cute poster which I adore. The poster is carboard and I didn't want to attach it anywhere without protection so a frame was necessary. I found one that seemed to fit the bill for my A4 sized print and so I ordered it online. When I opened it though the front was completely smashed....

As the frame was inexpensive it probably would have cost me just as much or even more to return it, so I threw it out and decided I would search again.
When my sister moved back in to the family home with me and our parents she brought with her a spare frame that was not being used and suggested I could use it for my print. Perfect.

The issues arose when  I tried to put the picture into the frame, it was HUGE. There was a large amount of blank space around the outside leaving the brown wooden back showing ... not a good look.It seemed a waste to not use this perfectly good frame so I starting thinking of what background colours could work.

Trying to match the purple of the prints background would be near impossible, black to go with the frame would be way too dark and using the white of the lettering just wouldn't look right. Bugger.

Suddenly I remembered that I had some black and white tissue paper left over from my trip to the Disney store that had protected my mug..... Which in case you're interested is freaking awesome!
Me and my sister both love Disney, plus the black and white coordinated with the frame and the lettering without being over powering.

Okay so admittedly it wasn't complicated or much effort and all in all is completely unimpressive but I am pleased with how it turned out!

So here it is before -

                 

And then the final product -

I am Thankful.

I am by no stretch of the imagination American, however I think a holiday dedicated to sharing all the things we are grateful for is a beautiful idea. Here is a little list of all the things I want to say thank you for partly to inspire others to really stop and think about how lucky they truly are but mainly because it's a cute thing to do once in a while that gives you a real sense of perspective.

- My family who are always there to support me and never fail to make me smile. I am so blessed to be able to refer to the members of my family as my closest friends. Because that's honestly what they are, when you strip away the fact that they have to put up with me because they live with me.

- Gorgeous friends that will always reply to a text or call no matter how far spread we may now be. Also that we can not see each other for months on end and yet when reunited we don't aknowledge any separation what so ever.

- The ability to own pets. I have a bit of a managerie and love them all unconditionally, I couldn't now imagine my home without animals.

- My job. Yes I complain and moan about it but seriously my job is pretty awesome. The people I work with and for are genuine and kind people and for me that is vital, regardless of the actual work itself.... Also earning money is kinda nice.

- The fact I can access so much. I have a laptop, phone, television and iPad for Internet - meaning entertainment and communication all of which are a luxury often expected and assumed but not appreciated.

- All my fleecie blankets and jumpers. At this time of year my blankets, marvel jumper and unicorn onsie are loved and worn beyond belief. 

- Also with the temperature dropping I am thankful for a nice cup of tea, nothing makes you feel more at home and cosy than a good cuppa.

- Books. As seen by my attempt at booktober I am trying my best to get into a regular reading habit... I'm getting there slowly.

- Music - there is no mood that can be experienced that you can't find a song to accompany and that's pretty special. Music really is how feelings sound.

- Cake. Or baked goods of any kind. It's again at this time of year that I remind myself how much I enjoy baking. In fact as we speak I am waiting for some blueberry cupcakes to cool down so I can tuck in.

So those a few things that are right with my life right now, all in all I reckon I'm doing fairly good!

Take time to think about all the good things you have, let them sink in and you might just find that life can be freaking amazing.

X

Torquay - It's a Three Generation Kinda Thing.

So this Friday I went on a trip to Torquay.

I packed quickly on Thursday night after my pole lesson shoving a few bits in a bag for our weekend away. Mum and I left the house at about 9 am and sadly I didn't leave myself enough time to have my morning coffee, a travesty right?! Don’t panic too much though as we thankfully needed to stop to get some petrol on the way to pick up our other travelers so I was able to buy a latte. Considering my option at home would have been instant coffee it all turned out better than I planned so we were off to a grand start.

Arriving in Alton half an hour later we collected the rest of our party which consisted of my amazing Grandma and her lovely friend Grace (who is in her 80’s but won’t show it!). From where I live it’s roughly 180 miles to Torquay so generally it would take 2-3 hours..... it took us 5. To be fair to us we did stop twice, once for tea which is always necessary on a long journey and then for a quick bite to eat, also essential. We managed to find a really traditional road side cafe for lunch, it was small, dated, right on the motorway and the food was incredible. I may have only had a ham and cheese toasty but my god was it all kinds of tasty.

The rest of the weekend was equally moreish as on arrival at the hotel (The Grand) at around 3 pm we enjoyed a cream tea which is one of my all time favourite things... coming second to afternoon tea obviously! The hotel itself was beautiful with the interior being just what you would expect of an old fashioned seaside hotel - lots of red and gold colourings and ornate trinkets dispersed all over the place. The rooms were HUGE, no word of a lie and the beds were like sleeping in a giant marshmallow. Heaven.

The first afternoon was spent exploring the coast that was right outside our front door. We actually came across a rather unexpected bird of prey, I’m not sure whether it was supposed to be there, had had a shock or was an escapee but it was sat on the fence and let me get really darned close before having enough of me shoving a camera in it’s face and flying to a safer, higher perch.

That evening we were served a two course meal, the taste and presentation were just insane and I couldn't help but get a picture of the desserts which were more like works of art and I am definitely not used to that sort of finery. The evening was all finished off with a glass of wine and being serenaded by a talented pianist in the hotel lounge.

The second day began with a breakfast buffet which as expected I over indulged on, but who can say no to hash browns? After a quick freshen up we headed out on a half hour boat ride over to another coastal town called Brixham, full of colour, pirates and fresh salt air. We couldn't leave without a quick trip on The Golden Hind, a bit of lunch and buying a few gifts for the Dad and sister who didn't come.

The afternoon shot past with us making use of the hotels pool and Jacuzzi until it was time for yet more food, this time three courses of deliciousness. A bit more wine and music blasting from the wedding party room and we headed to bed for one more sleep.

The last morning spent in Torquay meant another excessive meal for breakfast and then it was time to begin the journey home. This time around the drive only took 3 hours as stops were reduced to a single one for lunch. Pulling off the motorway to find a pub rather than a service station was the best decision we made that day, the staff were friendly and catered to us even if we were super awkward by not wanting to have a main meal! Compliments to the chef.

In the end the weekend was perfect, I got to spend time with some incredible women and explore somewhere new! If anyone has debated going to Torquay I highly recommend it.

If you wish to see more of my photos Click Here

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