How to Battle a Bad Skin Day?

It's no secret that my skin is rather temperamental at times. Despite my best efforts, a bad skin day is inevitable for me. Whether it's due to stress, the environment you're in or hormones - I think we can all agree that battling bad skin days can be difficult and make you feel quite self-conscious and crappy at times. Whenever my skin flares up, I feel like all eyes are directly on me (my skin flaws and spots to be exact) and all I want to do is run and hide away. But thanks to my 'go to' guru that is Caroline Hirons, I've learnt from great tricks and tips along the way. 

Over the years I've learnt that some things help, whilst others hinder the quality of my skins complexion. I think I have probably tried most of the products out there that say 'prevents acne' or 'reduces blemish and remove blackheads' - both high-end and high-street skincare products - but truthfully the products I use depend entirely on whether my complexion is fresh and glowing, dull and bumpy or a mixture of oily and dry. Skin changes all the time. But one of the key things that I've learnt over the years is... what works for one person, may not work for you - all skin types are different. 

Here are some of my 'go to' skincare products and top tips for when I'm having one of those days (my battle plan, so to speak):  

Daily Skincare Regime 

My daily skincare regime is simple but effective (and a little costly at times). I do it daily - day and night - and I never miss a step. There are a few things like spot treatment, face masks and exfoliating that I don't always do on a daily basis because I don't always need to do but I've listed them below anyway. 

1. Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish
   I heard a lot about this brand, and in particular this cleanse and polish before I thought I'd give it ago. But without a doubt, I wouldn't be without it ever again. 
2. La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo CreamAhh, here's to my blemish fighting bestie - without you, I'd be nothing. 
3. La Roche Posay Toleriane Ultra Fluide Cream
   Finally a moisturiser that doesn't hate my skin, that actually isn't greasy and just is incredible for combination skin. Where have you been?! You can't go wrong with La Roche Posay, you pay a little more but well worth it.

Added Extras to my Daily Regime 

So I don't use these everyday, some when I need to, others I use once or twice a week depending on the product. 

1. Origins Face Mask - 10 Minutes to Rescue Problem Skin
   My lifesaver. My everything. If I need quick skin rescue this is the face mask I wouldn't be without. I tend to use this after holiday when I've been slapping on suncream left, right and centre or if I've been wearing make up for a long period of time. Highly recommend. 
2. Origins Face Mask - Retexturizing Mask
   Definitely an all year round, and one that I use if my skin has decided to be my best friend rather than my enemy. It gives you a healthy glow, and really refreshes your skin. You really notice the difference when using on your sun-kissed skin! 
3. IT Cosmetics - Your Skin But Better CC Cream
   I've thrown this in as a bit of an extra - no make up than skincare - but again something I wouldn't be without. My friend put me onto this and I haven't looked back, it's lightweight, glowing, really refreshing and just builds on coverage! It's a little more expensive than most foundations, but a little goes along way. 

Twelve Ways to get Clear Skin and Battle Bad Skin Days!

1. Know your skin type and properly treat it. Don't just buy products because they're popular or your friends use them, choose them because they're right for your skin type. 
2. NEVER go to bed without taking your make up. You're asking for trouble. 
3. Wash your make up brushes and sponges on a regular basis.
4. Try not to keep touching your face throughout the day without washing your hands first {just think how much bacteria and dirt is on your hands that you can transfer to your face and clog your pores with, resulting in breakouts}. 
5. Don't touch or pick. Apply a bit of tea tree oil to the inflamed area for a natural spot treatment to quickly dry it up. 
6. Keep your skin hydrated, not only through moisturisers, serums and oils but by drinking plenty of water as well. I noticed a huge difference to my skin by just drinking water. 
7. Limit your intake of sugar and caffeine. According to research out there, sugar and caffeine can trigger breakouts; I'm not saying cut it out all together but instead of having four coffees a day, have two - I notice a huge difference doing this. 
8. Don't use old make up past their expiration date. Throw them away and buy new; normally make up last between six - twelve months. 
9. Sleep your hair out of your face. Platt it, tie it up in a bun, clip your fringe up - whatever is easiest for you, just as long the oil in your hair is out of your face. 
10. Once or twice a week, use a clay face mask to draw out any impurities from your skin. 
11. Gently exfoliate your skin once or twice a week to remove any dead skin cells. 
12. Don't scrub your face when you're cleansing, toning, exfoliating etc; make sure you apply all products gently.

Do you have any tips and tricks or products to help achieve a clear complexion and battle a bad skin day? 

Getting back into Fitness

Before heading to university, gymnastics used to be my primary workout mainly because I enjoyed it and it was a great way to stay fit. When I left for university, there weren't sport teams that court my eye and I fancied joining and the 'I can't be bothered' attitude started to sink in - especially if I had been out the night before. Oops.

Since I'm back and working full-time, I decided to join the gym. The gym is a perfect place to workout... There is variety, a fitness drive atmosphere and plenty of choice in exercise methods; not to mention there are personal trainer on hand to get to direction if needed. Although it costs, there are so many benefits to working out at the gym oppose to at home but I would definitely recommend working out at home, if you have any free time.

I'm not saying to go to the gym for three hours, 7 days a week, you need to go as much or as little as you would like to. It's the little changes that will help you to get into fitness mindset and live a healthy lifestyle; so if it has been a while, why not start off with these tips:

THE LITTLE THINGS IN FITNESS 

• Walk instead of drive. Unfortunately I can't walk to work, it would take me hours but I can walk everywhere else... No excuse! 
• Cut out sugar in tea and coffee. Included syrups. 
• No more snacking (unless you are packing up the healthier option - an apple) 
• Planning your meals
• Motivate yourself with treats and new workout gear. 
• Take the stairs - a classic but it works! 
• Opt for the healthier option.
• Have a killer workout playlist that motivates you. 
• Build up your workouts slowly. 
• If you're to nervous for the gym or if it isn't for you; try home workouts first.
• Think of it as getting healthy appose to getting fit.

Until the next time I report on how well my fitness is going, Au Revoir! 

Love,

Lauren xo 

How to spend Valentine's Day alone?

Valentine's Day. Known as day for every couple to celebrate their love, whilst us singletons usually get left out of all the fun. Well, not this year. I'm using this years Valentine's Day to spend sometime on my own (hold all sympathy and ahhh's until the end) but life lately has been pretty hectic, and I just haven't had anytime to do anything for myself. I don't remember the last time that I put on a face mask or spend an entire day unwinding and having a pampering "me" day. 

Whether you're a single girl hanging out with your friends today or spending this day alone, don't turn into someone who extremely stalks their Facebook feed for twenty-four hours because you keep seeing Facebook friends post pictures of romantic meals or engagement rings because you've got the green-eyed monster within you, just embrace the love. So, here is a single girl's guide to Valentines, if you're a single girl like me:

1.Take yourself on a movie date 
Today is the day that you stick on your favourite movie, cry if necessary, and have a mega-bowl of Popcorn all to yourself because after all who doesn't love popcorn. 

Today's Movie of Choice: That Awkward Moment 
(hello! Zac Efron can make anyone feel better, no matter what mood you might be in this Valentine's Day) 

2. Unwind and Pamper
No excuses this is something that every girl needs to do on Valentines Day. So put up your feet, paint your nails, put on a face mask; whatever you need to do to make yourself feel relaxed and unwind, this is your chance to do it. 

3. Read a classic novel - Romance if your feeling up to it. 
If you need to escape your lifeless love life thoughts, then there is nothing better than an inspirational book; however I am kind of loving my romance novel at the moment - Jojo Moyes: Me Before You - sorry but it's  good book. 

4. Give yourself an at-home mani and pedi
Pastels are my go-to colours.

5. Chocolate. Chocolate. Chocolate. 
Lindt Excellence White Vanilla Chocolate. Heaven in bar-form. Bliss. 

6. Treat yourself with something you've wanted for ages... 
Whether it's a new dress, top or handbag (or holiday in my case), your allowed to treat yourself every once in a while; you don't have to wait for someone else to treat you because your the one who works hard after all. 

7. Light some candles
Yankee Candle Bundled Up. Cosy. 

8. Get on your comfiest clothes 
Joggers and fluffy socks; the best way to spend a Sunday. 

9. Buy yourself some flowers 
My choice of flower is an Orchid - beautiful. 

10. Friend-Dates 
There is nothing better than friend-dates, I mean spent the whole of yesterday, watching Disney movies, painting my nails, drinking coffee and gossiping with a good friend - we are like to twenty-something grannies, who love cofee and going to bed at 9pm. No biggie. 

11. Family time
If anyone can make you feel better about being single, other than your friends, it's your mum. 

12. Turn off social media
Getting a little jealous from time to time is natural, so turn off your social media and focus on yourself for a change; however if you don't want to turn off your social media for Valentine's day, I don't recommend putting on statuses such as: "I hate Valentine's Day and being single. Uhhhh." - Seriously I've seen five of those already today. Just turn it off. 
Until the next socially awkward day event in our annual calendar, Au Revoir!
Love,
Lauren xo

Workwear Wardrobe Wishlist

1. River Island - Black Frill Blouse | 2. Mango - Coat | 3. Miss Selfridge - Tie Cropped Trousers | 4. New Look - Grey Suede Loafers | 5. Oliver Bonas - Black and White Skirt  | 6. River Island - Grey Striped Bardot Shirt  | 7. Oliver Bonas - Shirt | 8. River Island - Light Blue Cami Top | 9. New Look - Waterfall Duster Jacket | 10. Zara - Faux Leather Skirt | 11. Topshop - Pinafore Dress | 12. River Island - Striped Cami Top | 13. New Look - White Spot Shirt | 14. New Look - Black Cropped Trousers | 15. New Look - Burgundy Shirt | 16. Topshop - Tie Sleeve Bardot Blouse

Why is it, when you’ve got money to spend, I can never seem to find any clothes that I want but when my funds are lacking, I seem to be able to create an entire wishlist as long as my arm.

However after creating said wishlist, my excuse legit and very plausible reason for shopping spending my money on said clothes on that wishlist is that I have a ‘new’ job. Well I’ve actually had said new job for about six months now but I never actually managed to replenish my wardrobe after having a massive clear out and de-clutter before moving. So I need some workwear.

My usual daytime attire consists of both jeans and a baggy t-shirt/top – depends on my mood - so I needed to step up my game a little in the office wear world.  My office is quite ‘relaxed’ in terms of wardrobe, however I tend to go for the ‘smart/casual’ look on a day-to-day basis unless I have a client meeting when I tend to dress it up and make a bit more of an effort.

Luckily, I have found some great additions to hopefully add to my workwear wardrobe; New Look and River Island have some lovely items in at the moment as well as Oliver Bonas – however this is likely to stay on the wishlist, a little longer.

If there is anything else out there you think my wardrobe needs then let me know!

Life Lately #3 | I'm back, baby!

So, does anyone know where the last six months went? One minute I was happily writing some posts but then all of a sudden, it's December. Yes that's right, I've been totally MIA for a while (okay, for a long while). I don't know want to dwell on that too much but over the last six months, my life has had more twists and turn than a fairground ride. So, what has been happening in my life over the last several months? I feel like I need  to have a big ol' catch up before I start diving back in to my super-long list of blog ideas that I've been coming up with but not had chance to write. Well let's start with what HASN’T happened in the last few months?! Only joking. My life has honestly been pretty average - unfortunately my life is no 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians' series quite yet... 

TURNING TWENTY-TWO! 
In amongst my crazy life, I managed to find the time to celebrate a birthday - a 22nd birthday if you hadn't already guessed from the title. I think one of the most exciting reason to turn twenty two is that you can sing Taylor Swift's infamous song "I'm feeling 22!" - if anyone says that they don't sing it on their 22nd birthday - they're lying! Anyway my 22nd was pretty ordinary; got up, went to work, a birthday cake was presented and I got to spend time with some incredible family and friends. 

BECOMING A TIDYING NINJA... 

For anyone who truly knows me, tidying and organising are my forte. Yes that's right, I'm a bit of a clean freak - I like things in order and to be tidy. There is nothing wrong with that, right? Inspired by a book that I read whilst I was on holiday, I've since become an even bigger tidying ninja than before. The book is called 'The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying' by Marie Kondo and it is my new bible - it's incredible. 

The book talks about how millions of people love to keep things because they think they mean something to them but truthfully most objects are kept because people feel bad about getting rid of them. In truth when tidying you need to do it in categories oppose to randomly and each object ask yourself 'Does this spark joy?'. If there is one thing that this book has taught me it is that tidying isn't about getting rid of items that you might not want, its about making a change to your lifestyle bringing joy in everything you do. The student tidier has become the master tidier - said no one ever!

AMBITIOUS BAKER!  

Inspired by the latest series (and last series on BBC - *emoji with tears entered here*) of the Great British Bake Off, I've become quite an ambitious baker over the last few months. I find it as a good way to relax and unwind after a long week at work and what's not to love about baking; you get to try lots of new things, ingredients and you get to be the ultimate taste tester! From flapjacks with yogurt topping to truffles and brownies, my amateur baking skills are definitely improving and with the big day fast approaching look out for lots of festive treats! 

UNIVERSITY REUNIONS

I think one of hardest things about finishing university was leaving my best friends behind but whilst we may live a fair few miles away from each other, reunions make that distance all worth while. Two reunions happened in summer - one in Portsmouth and the other in Devon but one thing was clear, these places weren't ready for us. One was busy catching Pokemon, another was hoping not to get lost in a place they'd never been before and the other we needed to distract from purchasing the whole of Ralph Lauren. Whilst the reunion was a blast and we couldn't control our laughter for more than 10 minutes at a time, there were some valuable things that we learnt along the way:  

1. Bubbles do count as alcohol, no matter how much or little you drink.
2. Rosé is NOT our friends {I think it should come with 'Warning! This will make you stupidly drunk and feel rubbish in the morning when you drink with friends.'} imprinted in big letters on the bottle.
3. Spontaneous evenings are the best especially when you're with your best friends.
4. Looking at every restaurant menu in hope that what we want to eat will jump out at us doesn't actually work {you just end up going back to the first one you looked at - just pick one! I think we were walking around gunwharf quay for 45 minutes looking for somewhere to eat}
5. Playing games when you've had one too many to drink always ends in uncontrollable laughter. 

SIX THINGS THAT MAKE ME HAPPY! 

1. The sound of traditional Christmas songs playing no matter where you go. 
2. The smell of mulled wine, cinnamon and pine during the festive season. 
3. Reconnecting with old friends.
4. Spending the evening wrapped up in a fluffy blanket on an chilly and frosty evening reading a good book with a homemade Christmassy treats.
5. Bonne Maman Caramel Spread. That's all!
6. Planning holidays for 2017! :) 

FIVE THINGS THAT HAVE MADE ME SMILE IN THE LAST 6 MONTHS:

1. Reuniting with my best friends from university {I think we can all agree that Rosé is NOT our friend}
2. Booking West End tickets to see Mamma Mia in the New Year. 
3. Buying new Christmas decorations {I know this is small but it just makes me feel super festive} 
4. Celebrating that I'm twenty two! 
5. Getting a new car... Say hello to Aly Audi! 

Until the next life catch up or blog post (hopefully it won't be as long until the next one)... Au Revoir! 

Love,

Lauren xo 

Life Lately #2

Just to give you a sneak preview of what's happening in my life currently; whilst you're reading this imagine two twenty-one year old girls running around DisneyWORLD, with a pair of Minnie Mouse ears on their heads. Such cool kids, right? Anywho, as we are currently loving life in Disney; here a just a few other things (including Disney) that I've been up to lately... 

NEW PLACES TO SHOP
Addicted in an understatement. Seriously, I'm surprised my bank haven't got in touch with me yet to about how much I've been purchasing from Oliver Bonas & Esty recently. If you want something there is no doubt that Oliver Bonas and/or Esty has got in stock; I think the problem is I tend to find things on there that I don't really need but actually I just convince myself that I need it and I will find use for it. Recently I've purchased a large number of trinket dishes, make up brush pots and quoted frames; yeah I think I need to take a break. Oops. 

THE HOLIDAY HAS FINALLY ARRIVED! 
It's finally arrived and my excitement is about to erupt like a volcano. After waiting three months since booking this holiday, there is nothing more excited than meeting up with one of my best gal pals before heading to Gatwick to fly to Disney, Orlando. Ekkkkk! Whilst you're reading this post, I'll no doubt be running around Disney with a selfie stick in hand and Minnie Mouse ears on my head - yes I'm twenty-one and no I don't care! No doubt you'll hear all about my Disney holiday very soon! 

HEALTHY EATING 
Since my last 'that's life', I've been really into getting healthy and eating healthy - no doubt that will be straight out of the window, when I get to America - anywho, I've been really good lately; no snacks, unhealthy meals and I've been hitting the gym regularly. Everything I bake has had a healthy/fruity twist to it; seriously cinnamon and berry granola and apple flapjack are now my two go-to bakes for Summer 2016, I just can't seem to get enough. 

FIVE THINGS THAT MAKE ME HAPPY

1. When a client tells you personally that you've done a good job! 
2. Having fresh flowers in the house.
3. Being able to have the windows open all day without the risk of freezing to death. 
4. Everyone being incredibly happy and friendly because the sun is finally out. 
5. Finally being able to be in complete holiday mode! 

Until the next time, once again that's life; Au Revoir!
Love,
Lauren xo 

April Favourites

Just to bring some reality into this blog post; we're one quarter of the way through 2016 - seriously Christmas and New Year feels like a lifetime ago. Anywho, writing my April favourites is rather exciting; why you might asked well for one, it's the end of another glorious but rather hectic month of working life and second, it means FLORIDA IS ALMOST HERE! In fact this post comes to you from a girl sat on the train heading to Gatwick as you read - everybody put your hands in the air like you just don't care! *insert monkey with hands over its eye here*. 

Two of my proudest moment during the month of April were;

1. I motivated myself enough to go to gym consistently - if you know me this is a big deal; most of the time I would rather sat at home and eat multiple packs of Cadburys chocolate fingers rather than hit the gym. 

2. I managed to pack my suitcase to Florida without having to sit on it to close it and I was under the weight limit too. *Air Grab* Seriously when I flew to Portugal with my university chicks last year; my case was overflowing and I was only going for week but Florida I'm going for ten days - how does that work? 

Anyway in amongst of all the chaos what with working life, holiday shopping and a social life, I've still managed to find a few favourites...

1. Arian Oil Shampoo & Conditioner 

With the Great British weather unfortunately not on our side, my hair has taken a turn for the worse - seriously Snow in April? What's that all about? And it seems we've had every storm in the English alphabet past through our country in the last few months; no wonder my hair needs some help. I love the results, my hair feels silky and shiny and I can really see the difference, it is making to my hair. The smell is incredible and you only need a pea-sized of both shampoo and conditioner; which saves on re-purchasing and costs dramatically. 

2. Monin Amaretto Coffee Syrup 

Since trying Amaretto Chocolate Brownie at Christmas; I've been on the hunt for Amaretto Syrup to flavour my regular-sized weekend lattes. Thank you Dolce Gusto and Monin, for bringing some amazing things in our lives. Pre-warning, you can not Amaretto syrup in shops; I've looked everywhere, no luck as of yet. However my hunt comes to an end, when I remembered my trusty sidekick, Amazon. So my Spring afternoons are now very much spend sitting in the back garden (weather depending, of course) with a Amaretto flavoured latte in one hand and probably some form of cake in the other. 

3. Nails Inc Superfood Base Coat and Kensington Caviar Top Coat 

Don't you hate it when you've just painted your nails and one chipped almost instantly? Well not anymore; it's true what they say, go from something a little more extensive and it 100% works. Over the years, I've bought many top and base coats for my nails but not have seemed to have the desired effect and certainly haven't done what it's says they will do. At £14 per bottle, it is a little more than I would normally pay but still it's the best top and base cost since sliced bread; this colour on my nails at the moment has been one for two weeks and guess what... No Chips! 

4. My Disney Experience App  

If this app wasn't in my favourites his month, I would have seriously been surprised. Not only can I countdown to my holiday, I am also plan my holiday from England; from what rides we want to go to booking breakfast with the characters - I think I'm slowly convincing my friend, who I'm going to Florida with, that breakfast with the characters is a must! Not to mention, instead of waiting in queues for hours (you know how us British folk like to queue) we can book our fast pass passes through this app, so no more waiting in line for us. 

NOTE TO PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN TO FLORIDA - This app may have been around for a while but I've never been to Florida; so please be patient whilst I catch up with excitement. 

5. Vaseline Body Moisturiser 

Just like my lifeless, winter batter hair; my skin has unfortunately taken a beaten from this wild Great British weather that we've been having lately too. Not cool. So, as any normal girl would, I hit Google and started to look for the best moisturiser I could find - obviously it needed to have a reasonable price tag; I found one body moisturiser for £48. *insert shocked face emoji here* Vaseline have done body moisturisers for a while now but I always found the cocoa butter one really greasy but that was quite a few year since I lasted used it, so I thought why the heck not, lets try it again. I'm so glad I did. It's not greasy in the slightest, it's soft, smooth and has amazing coverage on my skin and the best part is you don't need a lot either. 

Until the next time, when hopefully my favourites will be filled with items from my Florida holiday, Au Revoir!
Love,
Lauren xo 

Spring Spotify Playlist

This post comes to you written by a girl, who is a little over excited (and hopped up on one too many Gingerbread lattes... Oops!) that the countdown to her holiday is down to single digits but also the fact that Spring has well and truly arrived in Britain. The thought of iced-lattes, long countryside walks and fresh flowers in every room indeed makes the thoughts of Spring amazing. Anywho, with the change in seasons, I thought that there was nothing better than accompanying my long countryside walks or morning commutes to work with a kick-ass Spring Spotify Playlist; so here are my chosen tracks for Spring 2016:  

1. Fifth Harmony - Work From Home 

This is my official jam for 2016. Seriously, where do I sign up to become a member of Fifth Harmony? #FriendshipGoals 

2. Little Mix ft Sean Paul - Hair 

After their Brits performance, I didnt think they could top it. Seriously, this music video is #Goals; I'm officially a 2016 #Mixer

3. The 1975 - The Sound

4. Ellie Goulding - Army

Never a massive fan of Ellie Goulding but she is starting to really grow on me; I think this song I've had on repeat numerous times this month. 

5. Coldplay - Hymn For The Weekend
6. Randy Newman - You Got A Friend in Me 
(Toy Story Soundtrack) 

7. One Direction - History

Um, it's the last song that One Direction are going to release for a while; of course I'm going to treasure it but listening to it over and over again. 

8. The 1975 - Chocolate

A classic; even if I do say so myself! 

9. Ariana Grande - Dangerous Woman

#StrongIndependentWomen 

10. Meghan Trainor - No

11. The Lion King Soundtrack - I Just Can't Wait to Be King 
A classic, even if I do say so myself! 

12. Mandy Moore - When Will My Life Begin 
(Tangled Soundtrack)

13. Lawson - Money

14. Nick Jona ft Tove Lo - Close 

Radio 1 Big Weekend #Exeter; come at me! 

15. Twenty One Pilots - Stressed Out 

16. Coldplay - Adventure Of A Lifetime

It seems a lot of boy bands are 'on a break' at the moment but Coldplay will never disappoint 

17. Charlie Puth - One Call Away 

18. Nathan Sykes - Give it up 

I may or may not have a little soft spot for him *inset monkey with hands over eyes emoji here* 

19. Add Disney songs x 8 

I'm heading off to DisneyWORLD, Florida in a matter of days, it would be rude not to have Disney songs on my playlist (to be honest, it would be wrong not to have them on my playlist, even if I wasn't going!) 

20. Idina Menzel - Let It Go 
(Frozen Soundtrack) - Every Disney-loving individual will know why this song is in my playlist. That's right, its amazing! 

21. The Jungle Book Soundtrack - The Bare Necessities 
Who doesn't love Baloo the Bear? 

22. Jodi Benson - Part of Your World 
(Little Mermaid Soundtrack) 

23. Mandy Moore ft. Zachary Levi - I See The Light 
(Tangled Soundtrack) 

24. One Direction - Drag Me Down 
Uhh Hello! It was filmed in NASA and will forever be an incredible song! 

Until the next seasonal Spotify playlist comes about, Au Revoir!
Love,
Lauren xo 

Life Lately #1

Am I currently sat here writing this post whilst consuming a vast amount of Easter egg chocolate? Yes. Yes I am indeed. But what can I say, that's life. But it got me thinking... Every Friday night I think about having two full days all to myself; no work, no commitments, I can do what I want, when I want and then BANG! By Sunday evening, I am wondering where the weekend went, setting my alarm for 6:30am and heading to bed early. Life of a full-time worker, eh? Anyway, since I am absolutely rubbish at keeping a diary, I thought what better way of documenting what's happening in my life than writing a post about it. That's life I suppose... 

WORKING LIFE 
Since January, my working life has been somewhat hectic to say the least. I've taken on more challenges and developed more skills, that I could of ever hoped for within such a short space of time. No day is ever the same, which I suppose is what makes it so interesting and diverse from a normal office job but the one thing that I would say is the most consistent element of my working life, is having a coffee as soon as I walk into the office in a morning. That I don't think will ever change.

MAKING AN EFFORT

Whilst I love the 'lazy wear look', I've recently had a good clear out as I am trying to 'up the effort' with my wardrobe - not just for work but my everyday clothes too. I've been trying so hard to find my own personal style, which has been fun but kind of pricey at the same time. I am getting there; slowly but surely. 

Don't get me wrong, I do make more of an effort for work but whilst just chucking a t-shirt and jeans on with a pair of really comfy Converse is great for comfort, it doesn't really make me feel good. Since 2016 is about getting out of my comfort zone, I thought that making a effort with my wardrobe is definitely a good start. 

HEALTH & FITNESS 
Now that I'm working Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm and whilst I enjoy my job, sometimes sitting behind a desk all day makes me feel rather lazy, so I have finally decided to join a gym. I've been a member of a gym before but unfortunately I was never motivated enough to actually get fit and health, like you're meant to when you join a gym.

Anyway the difference between this time and last time is I've actually taken time to talk to a personal trainer and they've planned a programme out for me - which makes such a difference compared to going to the gym with no plan and no idea what you are doing. So, that would have to be my first tip for beginners heading to the gym: Talk to a Personal Trainer and get a programme sorted! 

Since starting the gym, I've motivated myself by getting some fab fitness wear from USA Pro, Nike and H&M and believe it or not, feeling great in fitness clothes will definitely get you motivated for the gym. 

FIVE THINGS THAT MAKE ME HAPPY

1. Watching Disney movies back-to-back 
2. Discovering my love for reading and Nutella on toast once again!
3. Getting back into Fitness
4. Starting to think about what to pack for Florida! Eeeek! 
5. Reuniting with two of my besties (via Google Hangout; hopefully it will be face-to-face soon)

Until the next time, that's life, Au Revoir! 

Love,

Lauren xo 

March Favourites

A March favourites post can only mean one thing... Firstly it is one month until Florida (*cue the extremely excited shrieks and dances*) and secondly, we are a quarter of the way through 2016; I mean where did that time go? Yes that's right, Spring is finally here and Summer will be soon be upon us and we can finally hopefully put our winter coats and boots back into hibernation until Autumn and Winter dawn on us once again but until then let's focus on the positives. With Spring well and truly on our doorsteps, the candles that have a fresh, sweet and/or floral smell have been taken back out of storage, and not to mention that the one of the positive that comes from heading into Spring is being able to drive to and from work in the daylight. Bliss. 

March has literally flown by in the blink of an eye - I am kind of hoping that April does too, since I'm heading across the pond for a holiday on the 1st May - but don't worry, I have still managed to find a few favourites along the way, let's take a look... 

1. Sanctuary Spa, Convert Garden, Air-Whipped Soufflé Scrub 
I don't understand people who don't like to exfoliate - I mean, my skin always feels supersoft afterwards. When I purchased this particular scrub, the shop assistant said to me "I don't understand people who exfoliate. I mean what is the point?" to which I lead with the response (attached with a smile) "people who want supersoft, apricot smelling skin" - Yes I did indeed get daggers! Anywho, I've been looking for a good exfoliator for months but I haven't found one that suits; until March when I got recommended this one. It is incredibly light and fluffy on your skin and the best part is, it lasts for absolutely ages because you don't need to do it every night and you only need a pea-size amount. Perfection. 

2. Sanctuary Spa, Convert Garden, Air-Whipped Creme Soufflé 
It's only fair to say that if you buy one product from a set of two, you might as well try out and purchase the second product from the set as well. Hence how I ended up with the Sanctuary Spa moisturising soufflé as well as the scrub. Similar to the scrub, it is incredibly light and fluffy on your skin; however it doesn't last very long because even if you use a pea-size amount, it doesn't spread very far on your skin but it does however leave your skin feeling silky and smooth.

3. Coco White Teeth Whitening {Vanilla Swirl, Light Lemon & Minty Fresh}
Normally I am not one to try this type of thing out but I have heard such amazing things about this products and since it was on offer at the time of purchase; I thought "why the hell not give it a go". After taking at least half an hour to decide what flavour I think I would like the most, I opted for the assorted flavours - god knows, why I couldn't of made that decision half an hour early, it would of save me a lot of time. I have to admit that all three flavours are really tasty (Light Lemon is a definite fav though) and actually, I have started to notice a real difference to my teeth and gums - hopefully by the time I get to the end of two week cycle, I will be able to reveal a brighter and whiter smile. Cheese! 

4. Tesco's Chocolate Heaven Cookies
It's official I have a definite addiction to cookies! Don't get me wrong, I do love the traditional chocolate chip but these are indeed chocolaty heaven; however my only complaint has to be that there are only eight in the packet, so when you live in a family of four you have to quick otherwise they will be long gone. I mean who doesn't love cookies? I'm got some White Chocolate & Raspberry cookies to try next and no doubt they will take pride of place within my April Favourites, especially if there as good as these. #watchthisspace 

5. Bankin' App 
Realising that I cannot access my budget spreadsheet, anytime anywhere is devastating; however thanks to my trusty iPhone (thank you Steve Jobs), I've found an app which helps me to stick to my budgeting plan on-the-go. It's easy to use, colour co-ordinated and most importantly, it does what it says on the tin and stops me spending when I don't need to. Online banking is definitely a frenemy of mine but this app has definitely helped me to stick to budget and save.

Until the next monthly favourites, when I'll be sat in the airport waiting to board my flight to Florida (eeekkk!), Au Revoir!
Love,
Lauren xo