Monday, 10 July 2017
Friday, 5 May 2017
The Perfect Friday Night In
As I've gotten older night's in have definitely become more desirable in my eyes. After a long week at work the thought of chilling out before a weekend of jam-packed plans really does float my boat.
(Don't get me wrong though I'm all for a mojito or two with the girls now and again aswell, but on a rare occasion!)
I always love getting all my bits and bobs ready for my night in - the thought of a pamper session, snacks, pyjamas and a good book to delve into really does help me get through the Friday slogg of work.
So I thought I'd give you a little look into what I, 27 year old Kirstie who works Mon-Fri, loves to do on a quiet Friday Night In! #GrandmaStyle
1. Pamper
A bit of girly 'me time' is always top of the list when I have an evening with no plans (and even better... no boyfriend lurking around!). I tend to treat my skin to a fancy face mask and my hair to either a hair mask or a good, thick layer of coconut oil. If I know I'm going to have time to wash my hair the next morning (aka non-gym mornings) I'll always pick the coconut oil, slap it on root to tip and sleep with it on there. I've been using the Protein World Coconut Oil which I always grab when it's on offer at Superdrug which always makes my hair feel fabulous, soft, shiny and definitley a bit healthier!
Face masks, as you will know if you've been reading this blog for a while, are my FAVOURITE skincare treat! Forget oils, serums and creams - I'm a sucker for a quick fix face mask, I couldn't even tell you how many I've tried over the years!
So when I was offered a fabulous bubble face mask from Skin Republic to try I couldn't say no, a bubble mask?! Well that's new to me!
This purifying face sheet mask is made from activated charcoal powder, which 'when applied reacts with the air to create a deep cleansing, exfoliating foam, for a more radiant, clean and clear complexion'! Something I seriously NEEDED to try after a few months of not being overly great to myself or my skin.
Sheet masks are always terrifying - you could be a Victoria Secret model and you'd still make someone jump and this one is no exception! In fact this was the weirdest face mask I've ever used BUT my skin is feeling great after 15 minutes of having a bubble face!
Check out my Instagram/Twitter for a few hilarious snaps of it in action - thanks Skin Republic!
2. Comfort
Pyjamas, pyjamas, pyjamas - one of the world's greatest gifts! I pretty much live for taking off my bra and putting on pyjamas at the end of each day. I get a wave of relaxation over me once I've popped on those (most likely Primark) comfy bottoms and oversized top for the evening - and once I've put on my pyjamas that me written off for the day - I won't be leaving the house or doing anything strenuous from then on!
(Pictured : Harry Potter PJs, Primark)
3. Treat
Pretty much a given for me.
Nights in for me do consist of a lot of green tea though - my absolute favourite drink. Yes, as well as being a total water freak I love green tea, I suppose that is the one perfect thing about my diet, those two things are pretty much the only things I drink unless I'm 'out-out'!
As well as tea I, of course, have to have a treaat or two! My favourite thing ever is sweet popcorn with chocolate m&m's poured in (don't judge me and my sugar addiction please) but seeing as I'm trying to be a little healthier I can settle for a Nakd bar. I love these little things.... I still can't quite grasp how they get the flavours so damn on point with each bar, rhubarb and custard, gingerbread, bakewell tart ... they are all so yummy!
4. Scent
Candles, one of my greatest loves in life. There's nothing better than filling a room/home with a lovely scent, creating a peaceful and calm atmosphere is essential for a good night in.
Recently I have been loving the new Tobacco Flower* candle from Yankee Candles.
This is from the new Viva Havana summer collection and is a powerful blend of ginger, cedarwood, bamboo leaf and jasmine! The scent is fresh and actually really reminds me of Summer - I will a little worried with the word Tobacco being in the name but it's nice and sweet and, like all Yankee candles, gives off a strong scent, filling the room with ease!
5. Escape
Finally, reading, watching, listening - anything that can take my mind off the washing up in the sink or the shopping list on the fridge screaming at me.
Like I said in my previous post I struggle to find time to read even though it's one of my favourite things to do. Time seem to run away from me in the evenings post-gym and dinner I'm half asleep and my eyes can't focus on a TV show let alone text on a page!
So I really like to try and delve into a new story when I can, sometimes that's the most exciting time of a book, opening up the crisp first page and starting a new adventure!
I've had this book sat on my shelf for months now and I'm determined to finish it this month - it's not the usual genre I read so I'm looking forward to exploring something a little different.
I have also made a silent promise to myself that I won't buy any more books until I have read everything I on my book shelf that's yet to be touched.... which is embarrassingly is a fair amount!
What sorts of things do you like to do when you have a cosy night in to yourself?
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Monday, 4 January 2016
Liz Earle Eucalyptus & Rosemary Botanical Candle
This Christmas I was lucky enough to receive the gorgeous Beauty Icons Gift Set from Liz Earle - my best friend knows me so well and seriously spoilt me!
Everyone knows how much I LOVE Cleanse and Polish - I rant and rave about it monthly and honestly haven't found a skincare product I love more, so to receive a brand new bottle and some fresh muslin's was a god send... to have the beautiful candle alongside it - wow!
I'd smelt the candle before and had fallen in love. The scent is inspired by Cleanse & Polish and has the gorgeous relaxing and calming aroma of eucalyptus and rosemary. (I mean that's a little obvious with the name and all!)
The candle's scent fills to room within minutes creating a peaceful and uplifting space - perfect for when I want some 'me' time or when I'm working/blogging.
The scent is definitely something a little more mature than my other candles but it's becoming one of my most used throughout the home so far this year.
They are a little pricey at £40 individually but you don't actually have to burn it for a long time to get the full ambiance of the scent so you can really make it last with the 40 hour burning time.
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Wednesday, 2 December 2015
November Favourites 2015
It's December!!!!!!! Hands up if you're excited! *waves hands in the air!*
I always get so excited at this time of year, I love the atmosphere on the lead upto Christmas, so much love and laughter and I'm really looking forward to bringing all the festive excitement to AYBB this month!
To start us off I'm going to be chatting all about my favourites from the past month..... not going to lie I had ALOT of favourites in November so I've narrowed them down to just a few!
Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Hand Gel
I'm in LOVE with this stuff - I've already used half the bloomin' bottle.... I really need to buy a back up! It has the amazing gorgeous sugar crush scent we all know and love and it's a product you can take anywhere and everywhere with you!
Nars Mini Duo : Orgasm & Laguna
I bought this little compact in Florida last year, I had been wanting to try both of these shades for years so when I saw them both in one easy palette I knew it was a must. I recently stumbled back upon it and have fallen back in love! The bronzer is fab for contouring and the blush gives a lovely warm winter glow, such a great purchase.
MAC Velvet Teddy
I may actually make a huge statement here. The best lipstick of all time? I cannot stop wearing this shade and I'm nearly out which is making me super sad. Such an easy everyday nude, how did I live without this for so long - this has to be my current statement lip.
No7 Lip Pencil - Melon
I have so many No7 lip liners hanging around and I forget I have them all the time! This is such a beautiful colour and it works perfectly with Velvet Teddy - just call me Kylie Jenner!
Glasses
YES! I actually have a new prescription which works - yahoooo! I don't feel as blind anymore which is fab, I'm loving being able to wear these alot more often, my old prescription was 6 years old and just doing nothing.... I'm already wanting some new frames though!
Glade Honey & Chocolate Candle
The biggest bargain candle of all time. These are always on sale somewhere and I managed to get this one for just £2 in Tesco recently.
This scent reminds me of my parents house, my Mum has a stock of these constantly in the cupboard. For the price the quality is amazing, it has a slight smell of angel perfume and it just makes me happy! Go and buy one now!!
Trek Protein Oat Flapjack
A part of me wishes I never found these. I'm on the health train still and feeling fab from it... but I'm still partial to a little something to cure my sweet tooth. I've been popping into Holland Barrett and trying out a few new bits and a couple of weeks ago one of these fell into my hands! Soooo good and dairy and gluten free which makes me happy. Obviously I only try and have one a week and try and have it just before or after exercise as I know otherwise I could start piling on the pounds haha!
Eat Natural Dark Chocolate With Macadamias and Cranberries
My.favourite.treat.ever. The gluten free versions (which I think are the same as the original) come in a pack of 4 and are slightly smaller than the usual sized bars so they make a perfect evening snack. This and a peppermint tea after dinner - perfection.
What have you been loving this past month?!
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Wednesday, 18 November 2015
30 Stocking Fillers & Secret Santa's Under £5
10. LOVE Photo Frame
11. Hashtag Cushion
12. Reese's Lip Balm
19. Reindeer Beanie
25. Love, Rosie DVD
28. Christmas Pants
30. Gold Musk & Chocolate Velvet Candle
(At the time of creating this post all of these items under £5 or under - these prices may change before Christmas day.)
(At the time of creating this post all of these items under £5 or under - these prices may change before Christmas day.)
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Sunday, 18 October 2015
Homeware Wishlist
Lately I have been obsessed with looking at homeware.
With a new season starting I love seeing everyone's decor on pinterest and instagram and can only ever dream of having a pin-worthy home!
I have been looking at everything from plates to lampshades and I thought why not do a quick wishlist on here of a few bits that have caught my eye and are sat in my basket!
With a new season starting I love seeing everyone's decor on pinterest and instagram and can only ever dream of having a pin-worthy home!
I have been looking at everything from plates to lampshades and I thought why not do a quick wishlist on here of a few bits that have caught my eye and are sat in my basket!
I've wanted some of these for my flat for so long now and finding them on the ASDA website for just £5 each .... incredible! They also do a # and an & .... I need these for my bed/sofa asap!
I've seen these so many times on Instgram and Pinterest and now I've finally found them! I really want to transform my bedroom and I think these with a plain white duvet set would look so cute with my black leather bed .... it needs to happen!
Isn't this just gorgeous! Don't ask me where on earth I'd put it.... but I'd find somewhere.. maybe my hallway. It is SO pretty, Wayfair do the greatest homeware.
A practical piece now...this looks like the most convenient blogging space ever! A great desk for my laptop and camera and awesome storage alongside for all my products and bits and bobs... hurry up Lottery I need to win you!
How cute is this idea! Who needs a normal chalk board when you can have a chalk globe, such a unique idea.
I'm a HUGE Christmas lover and obviously a huge candle lover and what do I love even more.... Christmas scented candles! I've been burning my 'Christmas Cookie' candle all bloomin' year and thought the sound of Christmas Baking sounded just as yummy. You can never have too many candles.
This is in the wishlist purely because it looks SO cute and at only £6 this is such a lovely little extra to the bedside table.
I love me some cake (duh) and this little sign couldn't be truer!
The Wizard Of Oz is one of my favourite movies and very close to my heart. My eyes lit up when I saw these two wall art pieces, everything in my flat is pretty much black and white so these would go perfectly - they are a tad out of my price range for now though.
Where are your favourite places to find fun homeware pieces?
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Friday, 16 October 2015
Candle Love // Rhubarb & Vanilla Cream
I know, like me, you guys are huge candle fans!
I mean.... maybe not as much as the candle vlogger girl from Scream Queens (lol) but - we all love a good candle don't we and this is the newest one I've added to my collection.
As soon as I saw this candle from Baylis & Harding I knew I HAD to get one. I am a huge fan of rhubarb and custard sweets and have always loved the smell of them.... so a candle in that favour - ummm... yes please!
This is the Limited Edition 3 wick Rhubarb and Vanilla cream candle form Baylis & Harding, one of their handful of products in this scent.
It's priced at £15 at Boots, which in my opinion is a great price for the size of the candle!
The smell is SO yummy and I have been loving burning it so much that I'm seriously tempted to invest in another while they are still available!
I mean.... maybe not as much as the candle vlogger girl from Scream Queens (lol) but - we all love a good candle don't we and this is the newest one I've added to my collection.
As soon as I saw this candle from Baylis & Harding I knew I HAD to get one. I am a huge fan of rhubarb and custard sweets and have always loved the smell of them.... so a candle in that favour - ummm... yes please!
This is the Limited Edition 3 wick Rhubarb and Vanilla cream candle form Baylis & Harding, one of their handful of products in this scent.
It's priced at £15 at Boots, which in my opinion is a great price for the size of the candle!
The smell is SO yummy and I have been loving burning it so much that I'm seriously tempted to invest in another while they are still available!
Do you know of any other brands that have a Rhubarb & Custard scent?
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Thursday, 1 October 2015
September Favourites 2015
Well, well, well it has been a little while since I uploaded a monthly favourites post or video, so I thought it was about time I started them up again - let's jump straight on in!
Let's start off by talking make-up. My Seventeen shimmer brick has been a godsend since my Fake Bake beauty ran out a few months back (I just can't seem to get hold of another one). This is a gorgeous finishing touch to my everyday make-up routine, a summer glow is a constant mission of mine!
My Naked palette has been my go-to palette this month, nearly 3 years and countless smokey eyes later and I'm still so in love with this classic. I still love playing around with the different shades, they are so easy to wear.
My lipstick of the month HAS to be MAC's Velvet Teddy - I cannot stop wearing this, it is such an easy shade to just put on no matter what I'm doing or wearing, it's nearly running out which I'm pretty devo about.
Little Ondine is a brand I talked about last week, their nail polishes have changed my thoughts on doing my own nails - they are just so easy and I love this pretty baby blue shade. (Full review here)
The Lee Stafford Arganoil Nourishing Miracle Mist is easily my favourite hair product of the month, it has made my hair feel so much softer and healthier - I couldn't even tell you how many times I've used it already.
Yes, that is an anti-bac hand gel you see there. This is the cheeky little number that has been living in my handbag for the length of September - one of Bath & Body Works best (of course) this is Cozy Vanilla Cream and it smells so yummy!
Skincare pick of the month is my Simple protecting light moisturiser. I'm not normally one for wearing a moisturiser at night but with the change in weather recently my skin has been a little drier than usual but just a light layer of this each night has worked wonders. My skin never really works well with thick, expensive creams so this is perfect.
My Travalo Milano has probably been everywhere with me this month - armed with my fav Vera Wang Princess - this was amazing when spending whole days at Bestival and great for a little freshen up while I'm at work or out for the day! (Full review here)
Dry lips have been the bane of my life the past few weeks so having a lip balm next to my bed has been a total and utter must! Nivea's lip butter in Blueberry has been my balm of choice - I LOVE these butters so much, I still can't decide what my favourite scent is.
Last but not least is a candle from PartyLite candles - you may remember seeing this in a post last month. This Berry Blossom candle is totally Sweet Pea scented and I have been burning it like crazy (as you can see from the photo above!) This candle brand has had me SO impressed, they last for hours and hours and the scent really does fill the whole room/home!
Are you still a fan of the classic monthly favourites posts?
What have been your favourites products from the past month?
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Monday, 4 May 2015
This Week I'm Loving... #18
Stalker
Yes, once again I have binged watched a TV show and become completely obsessed with it. This is awesome, I'm upto date already and cannot wait for more episodes. I love crime shows and trying to work out who the stalker is each week is awesome.
My Time Off Work
This past week I have had off work. Yes, 10 whole days of no early alarms and having to rush and get up to get ready! I can easily say that I am NOT looking forward to going back on Wednesday.
Paul Mitchell Smoothing Collection*
I recently got sent this collection to try out on my newly chopped and newly coloured locks. I have the shampoo, the daily, treatment and the serum and I have been loving them. KEep your eyes peeled for a full review coming soon.
Jumble Bee Banana Chips
Before I hit Tesco in the week I tweeted and asked for suggestions of what to buy while I was there. I just wanted a little inspiration! Someone mentioned banana chips and I was intrigued, so when I saw these were on offer I decided to give them a go. They are super yummy, I think this bag is going to last weeks, plus you don't feel as bad snacking on the. ... It's fruit!
Bakewell Tarts
You all probably know now but I am on a chocolate ban. A 6 week chocolate ban! Call me crazy but I need a bit of a challenge in my life! I'm 2 weeks in now and still alive so that's a start! Although I'm not having chocolate I'm still kind of giving in to my sweet tooth and have been picking up different sorts of things to treat myself with! Bakewell Tarts are so underrated!
Bourjois Rouge Aqua Laque - Getting Reddy
You may have spotted this in my April Favourites! It's my newest baby and I'm in love! Super shiny and amazingly bright this is perfect for summer..... I'm so tempted to invest in some of the other shades too!
My iPad Mini
I've had my iPad for a while now, I bought it to take to Florida with me, as I'd wanted one for sooo long and thought it would be great for travelling with! This has been coming everywhere with me lately - I'm loving having it from front of me whilst doing the washing up and things.... I realise now home super sad I sound, oh well!
Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Fragrance Mist
Yes, last week I talked about the body spray version of this stuff and now I'm drooling over this beauty! Not only do I own the body spray but I now have a proper fragrance mist to go alongside it. This stuff lasts alot longer and you need alot less, perfect for an everyday morning burst of sweet lime goodness!
Bleach London Rose Hair Colour
I dyed my hair pink!!! Although it's gone now... it only lasted like 2 washes but I loved it while it was there. This stuff was so, so easy to use and I will 100% be doing it again, I may even go for lilac next time!
Tesco Cotton Fresh Candle
Last but not least is a candle and a bargain candle at that. I spotted this on my trip to tesco and seeing as it was only £2.50 I decided to give it a go. This smells so lovely, I love a fresh cotton/linen scent and for the price I'm impressed by how long it is lasting.
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Monday, 27 April 2015
This Week I'm Loving... #17
This was meant to be up yesterday so I am super sorry that it is late! But like they say... better late than never right?
Eat Natural Bars
You may have seen on twitter that last week I started a 6 week chocolate ban. Yes - I am insane, but until June 1st I will be eating NO form of chocolate at all. The first week has been a little painful but I've managed to get through it okay and I've found alternatives to hit that sugar craving just as much as a cheeky Kit-Kat. Eat Natural bars are SO yummy, my favourite has to be the yogurt coated blueberry and cashew bar, they are so, so good.... I just wish they were cheaper!
Sugar Crush Body Spray
This has to be my purchase of the week! I love the Sugar Crush scent and having a body spray on had 24/7 has been awesome, both me and my home smell sweet and zesty, perfect for Summer! (Here's the post I did a few days ago...)
Trouble - Iggy Azalea & Jennifer Hudson
TUNEEEEE! I love Iggy and Jennifer's voice is amazing so this song has me smiling everytime I hear it.... especially when James Cordon is singing it - please tell me you've seen that video?
Disney Tsum Tsum's
Having these delivered to me last week was the highlight of my week! They are so adorable... keep your eyes peeled as I'm sure they will be featured again, you know how much I love Disney!
Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation
I thought I'd feature my everyday foundation this week! I've used this for the last 18months or so I'd say. I remember picking it up just after I had starting blogging after seeing lots of reviews and recommendations and immediately I fell in love, said goodbye to L'oreal's True Match and swapped over to this as my daily base.
I cannot tell you how much bottles I've been through since then but this week I finished off yet another and made another repurchase. If you love a good coverage with a slight glow this is the stuff to try - plus it's less than £10!
Armani Si Perfume
This one is a bit of a cheeky one.... I don't actually own it... but I have been wearing it daily! 'How?' you might ask... well, I work with perfume so having a little spritz is a perk of the job, obvs! I LOVE this scent, it is so strong just one spray can last hours and hours, hands down my perfume pick of the week.
Revenge Season 4
Okay, I know you are all fed up of me talking about bloody Revenge! I have become pretty much obsessed this month. Sad as it is to admit but I have literally watched... 86 episodes this month. 86. ..... Eighty Six. Wow - that's kind of embarrassing to admit. I am totally upto date now, minus this week's episode which I am waiting to be uploaded. Not long until season 4 will be over and I won't know what to do with my life.
Tesco Damson & Pomegranate Candle
Candles are a right weakness of mine and I think I've talked about this one before either on here on on my YouTube channel. I love this scent and it is a total bargain, if you are in Tesco look out for it!
the Balm Mary-Lou Manizer
Highlighter of the week has to be my Mary-Lou! I love popping this on my cheek bones, forehead and down the centre of my nose for a gorgeous dewy look. This brand is one that I really want to try more of this year.
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Monday, 9 March 2015
50 Mothers Day Gift Ideas Under £50
15th March 2015
Lush - Love You, Mum Gift Set - £14.50
SensatioNail Starter Kit - £45 (was £69.99)
Pandora Heart Ring - £35
Sanctuary With Love Gift Set - £22 (was £45)
Benefit Puff Off Eye Gel - £22
Godiva Coeur Iconique Chocolates - £11.50
Scholl Velvet Smooth Luxury Pedicure Collection - £34.99 (was £79.99)
Paige Toon - The Longest Holiday - £5.89
YSL Black Opium - Prices starting at £43.50
Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentre Moisturiser 75ml Gold Edition - £22
Indeed Labs Nanoblur - £19.99
Marc Jacobs Logo Bangle - £40
Vanilla Caramel Drinking Fudge - £8.99
Sam Smith In The Lonely Hour - £9.99
Tweezerman Gear Slant Tweezers - £20.95
Wicked Tickets - Prices start at £25
Lush Yummy Mummy Body Conditioner - £19.95
Nutella Recipe Book - £9.99
Home Chalk Board - £4.95
Mum You're Amazing Wine Glass - £16.99
Reserved For Mum Cushion - £10
Mummy Bear Mug - £8
Moroccanoil Treatment 25ml - £13.45
Downtown Abbey Series 1-5 - £30
Enjoy The Little Things Plaque - £3.45
Microwavable Bagpuss - £9.99
Soap & Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Lipgloss - £9
The Girl On The Train - Paula Hawkins - £6.49
Downtown Abbey Series 1-5 - £30
Enjoy The Little Things Plaque - £3.45
Microwavable Bagpuss - £9.99
Soap & Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Lipgloss - £9
The Girl On The Train - Paula Hawkins - £6.49
No7 Illuminated Make-up Mirror - £24.99 (was £49.99)
Mothers Day Pop Up Card - £5.98
Yankee Candle Clean Cotton - £19.99
The Mum's Book - £5
New Look Floral Scarf - £7.99
Champneys Citrus Blush Spring Collection - £15 (was £32)
Ghost Deep Night 50ml - £16.50 (was £33.50)
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