Anxiety.

Anxiety isn't something I've ever gone in depth with here.
 Yes, you may have seen a few tweets from myself expressing how I'm feeling but I've never gone into more than 140 characters about how I'm feeling, mainly because I have always been a little reluctant.
One, because I don't want people to ever think that I'm joining in with a trending topic or 'trend', as that is in no way the case and also knowing people in my actual life and people from my hometown/Island read my blog. For some reason this always makes me feel a lot more vulnerable than just sharing my issues with the internet and my blogger pals online. 

Why Disneyworld?

That is a question I hear far too often. 
"Why do you want to go back?" "But don't you want to go somewhere else?" "Surely you're bored of it?" "There's a whole world out there you know"..... I've heard them all and I hear them from about 90% of people I talk to about holidays, and I cannot be the only one.

Since I was about 7 I had dreamed of Walt Disney World and being able to set foot in Orlando, Florida. 

Focusing On My Health & Wellbeing : My Six Steps

As many of you noticed last week I popped out a tweet to share that over the next six months I am going to be making a conscience effort to focus on both my physical and mental health and generally my overall well-being.
I'll be honest with you all, lately my mind has been a little all over the place. From work to weight - I haven't been me. 

Grateful.

As a 26 year old woman (yes, apparently I am classed as one of those now... even though I still spend my spare time singing to Disney soundtracks and googling things like 'how to cut a pineapple') - I spend ALOT, and I mean alot, of my time moaning, critiquing myself, stressing over minor mishaps and generally wishing for other or better things.

Earlier this week as I was getting ready for work it kind of hit me that doing this was kind of... well, ridiculous. 

I am SO lucky to have the life I do. 

Why am I moaning about gaining 1lb and not looking like Jessica Alba or being stressed because I'm a bit strapped for cash for the last week of the month? 

Living in a world full of social media, gorgeous celebrities with enviable lives and general glitz and glam it is really hard not to get caught up in the longing for more - that green eyed monster.

I have all 4 limbs, am on the whole - healthy, I can see, I can hear, I can smell - I have an amazing family, boyfriend and best friends that have been with me since I was a child, I live on a beautiful island.... there is no reason I should be moaning - I should be bloomin' well grateful.

I wake up in the morning, in my own flat surrounded by hundreds of things that I don't really need but have anyway - head to my kitchen where there is food, running water and head off to a job that I love! (What is there to moan about really? That I ran out of £2 raspberries...?) 

I don't know why looking in the mirror that morning bought all this on but it's something that's made me think constantly this week and started to change how I look at things.

Before the photo above I would think ... oh god look at those hips, my arms look chubby, I wish my bum was better (and I'm not going to lie and say that I still don't think those things on some level) but I've got to look at the positives of the photo - I'm in Mallorca on a gorgeous beach, so lucky, my bikini was a bloody bargain from ASOS (£10!) and compared to 5 years ago I look great! 

Be proud of who are you, embrace the flaws you think you may have and smile! 

It's alot nicer seeing, talking and interacting with positive people - negativity is draining, so unbelievably draining, it's time we cleansed ourselves of it! 

It's time to start looking at everything as a glass half full, not half empty. Out-way the negatives with the positives and LIVE life. 

I should be totally and utterly grateful and at peace with what I have - as there are so many people in the world with nothing. No family, bad health, nowhere to sleep - most of us take what we have for granted and it is about time we stopped. 

I'm not sure whether this is a sign of maybe finally growing up a bit but it's a start. I mean it's all pretty obvious but we need to appreciate what we have a little more than we do.

Focus on what you DO have, not on what you do not.

What do you have to be grateful for? 

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Life Advice I'm Taking From Blair Waldorf

Gossip Girl and it's NYC drama may seem like a distant memory to some of you - can you believe it ended in 2012?! - but the thought of Blair, Serena, Chuck, Nate and their fabulous drama will always live on in my mind.
I've always been a HUGE GG fan and Blair hands down was my favourite character from the start - her one liners and straight talking attitude used to make me laugh out loud and I'm not going to lie..... I kind of wish I could be a little more like her (hairbands and all!).

So I've decided for 2016 I'm going to take on Blair's wise advice... because I mean - she's so damn good at it!

1.  There is ALWAYS something to smile about.
As much as you might want to scream, cry or curl up in a ball - remember the good stuff. Be grateful.

2. Be determined. Never stop until you've reached your goals and don't stop making more.

3. Don't let anyone dull your shine. Refuse to be put down - reject the negativity.

4. Don't wait. Get out there and take life on - create your future, live the life you want.

5. If all else fails. Shopping helps.......

6. .......and sometimes so does drinking.

7. Always make a little effort (even when you really, really don't feel like it) it will always make you feel a little better.

8. As much as you love it - sometimes just sometimes sleep shouldn't be a priority. 

9. Mean people. Fake people. Rude people. Don't waste your energy.  #ByeBye

10. I'm taking this one and using it against junk food..... #idontneedyou

Now........ who's for a GG marathon?

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Putting Down My Phone...

Over the past week something has really hit me. I look at my phone far too much. I mean.... it's like an extra limb.

Yes this sounds so stupid, as it is probably really obvious with the amount of time I spend on social media and browsing ASOS, but really.... it's unnecessary. 

My evenings for years have had me sat glued to my phone 99% of the time, only breaking when I'm eating or watching TV and even then I'm bloomin' commentating about it aren't I!

Now my job is a day constantly on a laptop and online I actually enjoy having a break from the internet world once I'm home .....

So I've made a deal with myself. 

I'm going to get back into reading.

I have always loved reading but with the internet being such a distraction especially around bedtime, by the time I've finished browsing and scrolling my eyes are dropping, I'm half asleep and there's noway I could delve into that book that's been sat on my bedside table for months.

There's nothing more relaxing than getting cosy and totally loosing yourself in a story... with a cup of tea near by obviously.
 I used to go through so many books and LOVED it! I'd get so excited about finishing an amazing story or finding a new series to start and I'd always love sharing my thoughts and recommendations with friends and on goodreads (the best site ever for readers!).

Nowadays I feel like a total failure because I'll read 50 pages of something then forgot to carry on until another 3 weeks later or so - it's terrible!

Last year I told myself I'd read more and what happened? I got distracted and didn't. I don't even know if I did finish a book last year and I find that embarrassing to admit! (Oh yeah I did... 'The Girl On The Train' - awesome book!)

So - I'm going to start with the Harry Potter series - total classics. I then have a whole book shelf and kindle to get through - all the books and downloads I've accumulated over the last 2 or 3 years that I've never ended up reading, I'm determined to get through them all this year.

Wanna join me? Do it!
 Let me know on Twitter and in the comments below! #PuttingDownMyPhone
 I'd also love your book recommendations - leave them all below so we can all have an amazing reading list to explore and save :)
A couple of personal favourites you guys need to check out - the 'Delirium' trilogy and the 'Eve' trilogy!

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2016 Goals, Aims & Plans

Hello hello girls and boys, it's that time again - the year is coming to a close and we are all looking forward to that refreshing feeling of January!

Over the last month or two I have really felt like things have started to come together for me, I've totally overhauled my diet which has made me feel so much better and have finally been able to hand in my notice at my job ready to start my new career in January #yay!
2015 has been alright... I mean nothing major seems to have happened, I've had fun times and great experiences but nothing too life-changing - however that's not always a bad thing.

Looking back at my 'Goals & Resolutions' post from the beginning of 2015 it's clear that I did slightly fail on a few of those things I set myself and.. in fact... some of them are things that I still want to work on in 2016 - but oh well... the only way is up!

Running & Fitness

You may have read my post about my diet recently, so of course next thing on my list is fitness. Growing up I was always so active and a few years ago I was running every morning. I'm hoping that with this new job I can finally get myself into a good routine and include an exercise plan into this! I want to be fit and healthy and am looking forward to challenging myself a bit - bring on the abs, planks and squats!

New Job Confidence

Yay! It's only a couple of weeks until I fully start my new role as a PR & Social Media Executive and I cannot wait.

 Yes, I won't lie, it is a little daunting jumping into a job that I have no previous experience in apart from everything that I've done for myself but I'm so ready to take it on and put my all into it - I hope this is the start of something great as I've been stuck in a job for so long that I just haven't been happy with, aiming for the stars here people, lets do this!

Fashion Blogging

I feel like I've said this alot but I really, really want to start blogging more fashion bits. I always get lovely comments from you guys when I do and I really enjoy it! Fingers crossed I'll be able to afford some new clothes to chat about soon haha!

Grow Grow Grow

Well.... this has been my aim for the last (nearly) 3 years! I love blogging, social media, creating and I just want to grow my channels as much as I can. 

I mean..... that might sound vain or self-centered? Does it? I feel like if you're a blogger then you will understand how I feel. I love engaging with people and blogging has become something that has well and truly taken over my life - I love it, bring on another fun-filled year of learning and improving.

YouTube Take Two

I'm going to try. I'm really going to try - it just takes up sooo much time. The videos I put up this year I had so much fun doing, but I'm so hard on myself so just never feel like they are good enough. Vlogging has been a goal of mine since I started watching YT videos regularly back in 2009, so watch this space.... filming will commence shortly.

STOP WORRYING

I'm such a bad worrier. I'm always panicking about something, have a horrible feeling of dread or weight on my shoulders for no reason - so next year I want to try and let myself feel more relaxed. Take things as they come and don't let little things worry me, 99% of the time whatever I'm worrying about doesn't happen!

Get a Tattoo?!

Haha! How many times have I said this? My friends are fed up of me even mentioning it! I'm just so damn indecisive. 

Adventure Out

Weekends away, nights out, days with friends, seeing new places, experiencing new things - with a holiday to Florida on pause for now I want to spend as much time making memories as I can.

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Life Thoughts

Don't Give Into Peer Pressure
This is something I have followed and believed in since I was a child. 
I've never been one to give into peer pressure from people, from breaking the rules as a 10 year old to being forced to take shots at 25 - I've always been okay with saying no, I don't want too.
Sounds silly I know but it doesn't bother me in the slightest if people think I'm 'boring' or 'no fun', if I don't want to do something I won't do it - no matter how many times or how many people say 'go ooooooon' in my ear.
Don't ever feel like you have to do something you don't want to do.

Worrying Won't Change The Outcome

I've said this before on here I know - but it is something that I really should listen too and follow more often.
 I'm such a worrier and even the most stupid thing can set me off into a pool of anxiety and nerves. But really.... it's never going to change what's going to happen. Yes there are times when worrying is inevitable and there's no way around it but alot of the time I just need to remind myself that there isn't really anything to get worked up about - relax and take each day as it comes!

Life Is About Experiences

I'm 25 and when I say I'm not saving for a mortgage but I'll happily spend thousands on heading to the US for an incredible holiday.... some people look at me like I am insane - but.... I'm really not.

Life is about experiences, making memories and spending time making each day different. You could have however much money sat in the bank but at the end of the day what's the use in that when you're dead?! Life, for me anyways, is about making memories, seeing new things, heading out and doing - well, anything! 

You don't get a long time so make sure it's a good time! (Don't get me wrong one day I'll get a house, but for now, I'm young, I have no children - so why not have adventures while I can?!)

Always Make Time For The People You Love

This is an obvious one, but one I overlook on a regular basis. Sometimes we (I) take for granted the ones we love, cancelling plans, re-arranging dates, bailing - I am so super guilty of it as I'm sure you are too!

The last few months I've really been trying to see my friends and family more, even if it's just a quick cup of tea after work - I always love seeing them and feel better after I have done. 

Make time.

Water Really Is The Greatest Thing

It helps with weight loss, keeps you hydrated, aids digestion, improves your skin, eliminates toxins, improves your mood, boosts your metabolism ......... the list is bloody endless - google it and get drinking!


Embrace Your Passions (Even if no-one around you is interested!)
I saw a certain someone's tweet the other day, they were super sad that no-one in their family understood their passion, this is something I know all too well.

I bloomin' LOVE Disney and everything about it - but 99% of my friends and family probably couldn't give two poop's about it and think I'm a little crazy! (I know you roll your eyes at me!)

But.... who cares?! I LOVE it and I don't care it people might look at me like I'm silly, it makes me happy and that's all that matters!

Have a random hobby? Collect spoons? Fascinated by sharks? Maybe you are a secret black belt? Embrace that passion, as long as you love it that's all that matters, be proud to have different interests.

Be A First Rate Version Of Yourself Not A Second Rate Version Of Someone Else

Nowadays this is become more and more of an issue in society, especially with us ladies. We are all on the internet constantly - don't lie... I see you right here!
I am so guilty for continuous looking at other people, green eyes out in full force! But really I should be trying to make myself the best ME I can be, not a similar version of someone else! Be you, rock it.

You'll Never Be Able To Please Or Get Along With Everyone
People always joke to me that I 'get on with everyone' and that I 'like everyone' and I mean it's mostly true - I couldn't tell you anyone that I HATE (That is such a strong word.) and I do like to make an effort with everyone I meet.
I've always hated the thought of people not liking me or being annoyed at me but as I've grown I've realised that this isn't always possible and I need to stop being such a sensitive Sally. That's life.

Positivity Creates & Attracts Positivity
PMA. Positive Mental Attitude.
Hearing other people constantly moaning has made me realise how I sound when I'm moaning day in day out - boring, annoying and depressing! (I'm sorry to everyone that knows me!)
I'm trying to hardest to see everything in a positive light - it's crazy how much it can change your day and I really do believe that being positive will lead to and attract positive things!
Career in writing/blogging come at me bro, I'm coming for you.

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Zoella Beauty Kissy Missy Lip Balm & YouTuber Success Talk

When Zoe Sugg announced another collection being added to her 'Zoella Beauty' range I was all ears!
 I had bought a couple of bits from the first collection and really enjoyed them and hearing that this range was 'tutti frutti' made me definitely open to trying it out as it sounded right up my street (I'm all about scents, especially when they are sweet!).

After I had watch Zoe's video on her new releases I decided that the lip balm 'Kissy Missy' had my name all over it!

 I'm a big lip product person.... it's kind of embarrassing how many I own when I only have one mouth.... but this little pot looked lovely and I like having tinted lip balms in the summer - lipsticks melting is just heartbreaking.

The pot is small - obviously - a little larger than a carmex pot and is a plain, clear plastic apart from the lid which has the name and branding.

 The scent is nice, I've been trying to figure out what it smell similar too and for the life of me I can't work it out.... I'm rubbish I know!

Now the colour. I'm so impressed with the colour! I thought maybe, for the cheap price of £3, this might be really sheer and a bit like a nivea lipbalm or rose vaseline, but I was wrong. 

This is a bright bublegum fuchsia shade and is really buildable, although it doesn't take alot to give yourself fun kissy wissy lips!

I've been using this after my lush bubblegum scrub and my lips have felt so soft and smooth with a cute pop of colour!

For the price this is great, a handbag must for me this summer!

Now.....while I'm on the subject quick I just wanted to chat about Youtubers and their many deals and partnerships that seem to be happening weekly.
To be honest that I'm kind of getting fed up of people moaning about Youtubers having these opportunities - if it was you, you would leap at the chance (I know I would) - I really don't see the problem in these ranges and internet personalities making money on merch/own brands.

Don't want it - don't buy it, but whats the point of saying these people 'don't deserve it' or 'they just want the money' it is their job at the end of the day of course they are going to try and make money. 
The internet is so fickle and people, including Zoe, don't know when their time will be up - I don't blame them for taking everything they can while the chances are there.
 This blog and doing a few youtube videos here and there takes up so much of my time and I put alot of effort into it so I can imagine how much work people like Zoe have to put into everything they are achieving! My thoughts - You go girl! 
You may not agree with how I feel about it but that's life, we all have our different thoughts, it's kind of how to world works my loves!

Love you guys, thank you again for visiting A Yellow Brick Blog whether you are re-visiting or here for the first time - you rock! xoxo

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25 Thoughts I Keep Having Everytime I Watch Pretty Little Liars

I know soooo many of you girls and boys are as addicted to Pretty Little Liars as I am and with the countdown to us finally finding out the truth about A/Charles becoming shorter and shorter my brain is on a constant overload of PLLness!

I have been watching PLL since the day it started back in 2010 and have watched it religiously every week for the last 5 years.
Season 6 has hands down been my favourite season so far - I think it's because we are so close and starting to find out so much more!
Every episode has my brain ticking over and over and I thought I would share with you guys some of the thoughts I seem to be having every single week!

1. It feels like forever since the last episode... has it really only been a week? I wish this was on every day.

2. 7:55am.......... HURRY UP NETFLIX AND UPLOAD THE DAMN EPISODE!!!! 

3. "Got a secret, can you keep it....." This is ma jammmm.

4. Ashley Benson is just cooler than cool. Her hair every week is just goals.Will I ever be that cool? Probably not.....

5. LUCY'S EYEBROWS THOUGH - they are hypnotisingly perfect - no amount of HD Brows will get me those beautiful hairy twins.

6. If Spencer is the "smart" one why is she always taking drugs? Pull yourself together Spence you are making yourself even more vulnerable! 

7. How do these girls always look so glam? If I was them I would be rocking in a corner with a shaved head by now. 

8. Seriously though - these outfits.
 How do they wear heels all the time, even when being snoopy detectives? I can't imagine going to school in heels or sneaking around in them. AND how do they afford these amazing wardrobes - I never see them shopping and they don't even have jobs......
I think I'm just jealous.....

8. Why is Aria so obsessed with dolls......surely this is a clue? Or maybe just something to throw us off? Maybe she's been hypnotised and doesn't know it but she's helping A! She always looks confused when she see's a doll or her reflection.... like she's seen it before but doesn't know where.... (I thought way too much into that....)

9. Where the hell is Jenna? Is she still a part of all this?

10. Toby's mum is something to do with this - I just know it!

11. I literally do not remember half the stuff that has happened over the years now........ Where's Lucas? Has Andrew left? Remember when Jason was a different actor - and Toby!

12. I'm nervous for S6E10 already..... maybe I should book the day off work?

13. Where the hell is Sara's mum? Should we trust Sara? Is it really 'Sara'? .... Is she really Bethany? There's too many blondes to chose from HELP!

14. I have no idea who I can trust anymore. #help Am I A? Is it all a dream?

15. Mike got hot. So so hot. Is he old enough that I can say that?

16. I wonder if anyone is actually going to have a twin. I feel like Leslie and Sara are twins...

17. I LOVE PLL DAY.

18. I need to find that yellow shirt and go as Ali/Bethany/Sara/Cece for Halloween.

19. Have the girls graduated yet? Surely they missed sh*t loads of schooling and exams? 

20. What in the hell have they actually done to be hated so much by A? What do we not know?!

21. Tanner is THE most annoying character ever. 

22. How has A got so much money?

23. Maybe A is Wren..... or Cece..... or Wilden.... or Sara.... or Bethany... I mean who else could it really be? Really?!? Coz it can't be one of the liars ... can it? I think I need to search the #PLLTheory hashtag a bit more.....

24. I don't know if I'm ready for the reveal...... what will I do with my life? What if I'm disappointed? Will life ever be the same again?

25. Oh what's A upto now? Gloves all year round must get pretty sweaty....This means it's the end of the episode..... Please don't be the end - I can't wait another WEEK to find out what happens!!!

(26. Goes straight to Youtube and watches next week's promo and sneak peeks!)

Who do YOU think is A/Charles?!

 I am obsessed with knowing what everyone thinks!!!

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