(An extremely late) October Favourites!

Yes, I realise we are entering the second half of November and nearing December. I'm rubbish, I have no excuses as to why I didn't write this post earlier. But anywho, here we are now, and it's better late than never!

So the Christmas season is upon us and I for one cannot wait. In fact, as I am sat here writing this, I have my Christmas jumper on and I'm watching Elf - which is THE greatest Christmas film, end of discussion. Some say it's too early, but in my opinion, the minute Costa bring out their Christmas menu I am fully involved in the festive cheer! 

(yes my Christmas jumper has bells on it and yes it means I can be heard a mile away)

Moving on.

1.) Live Music

I spent October dividing my time between home and Nottingham. This was due to the fact that one of my closest friends birthday was at the start of October, I then had tickets to see Ed Sheeran, Rixton and Klaxons over the following 3 weeks so for me it was a busy and exciting month albeit very costly!.That it why my first 'favourite' is live music.

(Ed Sheeran, Klaxons and Rixton from L to R)

It's typical that I will go months without attending a single gig an then over the space of two weeks I will go to three! None of which disappointed.  

On the 21st of October I was lucky enough to have tickets to see Ed Sheeran. He was amazing. The number of emotions I went through from the minute he stepped on opening with 'I'm A Mess' (which is definitely in my top 3 on Multiply) through to his final song 'Sing'.  I'm always a bit cautious when artists play arena venues as quite often the intimacy is lost amongst the huge screaming crowds, the mile gap between stage and audience and the huge production. HOWEVER I cannot stress how incredible it was to see Ed play on his own, no backing tracks, no other musicians on stage with him, just him and his guitar. Automatically I felt like I was in a venue half the size of the Capital FM Arena. He was one of the most incredible artists I've seen live and I urge anyone who didn't get tickets this time round to snap them up next time he tours the UK.

Exactly a week later on the 28th of October, Kat and I went to see Rixton. Firstly let me contextualise the reason behind our decision to purchase tickets. A while back when we were students who wasted away our days watching daytime television we were watching Loose Women. It was Colleen Nolan's birthday and her son Jake had sent in a birthday message. Colleen then proceeded to say how well Jake and his band were doing in America. Immediately Kat and I pondered over what 'band' this was so we went on the trusty YouTube and found Rixton. They're songs were catchy and every time I heard them from that moment onwards it would remind me of that day and Kat. It was merely an ironic personal joke that had gotten out of hand. We then saw them on the day we say McBusted and actually they were extremely talented musicians which is bizarre to admit about an artist who comes under the same category as 'One Direction' or 'The Vamps'. These guys have worked so hard to get to where they are now. So when we saw they were playing in one of our favourite venues in Nottingham we decided to go and it was a wine fuelled, cheesy, singalong evening spent with one of my favourite humans. Despite the fact we were the oldest there by about 5 years, it meant the bar was always clear and we could see over everyones heads, splendid! 

And finally on the 1st of November (Ok not exactly October) we went to see Klaxons on their last UK tour! Klaxons were my favourite band when I was about 15/16 so I felt so nostalgic when they played tracks from 'Myths of the Near Future.' Gravity's Rainbow was my jam for the whole of 2008. They were really good live however I was so shocked to see so many YOUTHS who were smashed out of their face on a Sunday night. I realise that makes me sound about 40 but really, it was not the atmosphere I was expecting. Despite this it was a great evening and I'm gutted they're coming to an end.

2.) Ponchos

The next item on my list is fashion related which is bizarre as I'm not one for following the trends however this has been a favourite since I was about 7 and I'm so glad it's now acceptable to wear them again. Ponchos - they are so good for that in between Autumn and Winter weather! Not as cosy as a proper coat, however, a step up from jumpers and cardigans. I'm so glad they've made a long awaited return.

(Left from New Look, Right from Debenhams)

3.) 'Graduates in Wonderland: A Memoir of a Friendship'

The third item is a book which I have been addicted to. If you have recently graduated I urge you to read this, it will make you feel so much better about the 'not knowing what the future holds' feelings we all have. There are a few people I know who have walked straight into a job, hats off to them! However, seeing it posted all over social media led me to believe that I was the only one who has no idea what I want to do. This book will and has diminished those worries.  I'ts called 'Graduates in Wonderland: A Memoir of Friendship' and is a collection of emails sent between Jessica Pan and Rachel Kapelke-Dale that documents their post-college lives. Whilst one is travelling around China, the other is finding her feet in New York. I think one of the reasons this book has really helped me is because my closest friend is off travelling for 12 months in January. This book is just proof that it is possible to stay in contact, thank god for the internet. Seriously seriously this book is hilarious, heart-warming and just so lovely.

4.) Inside Llewyn Davis

My penultimate item is a film. I didn't get a chance to watch it in the cinema when it came out, I believe it wasn't shown for that long, It is a film by the Coen brothers so immediately I knew it was going to be great. Inside Llewyn  Davis follows the fictional struggling folk musician Llewyn Davis over the course of a week. The cast includes Carey Mulligan, Justin Timberlake and Oscar Isaac and the soundtrack includes songs by Marcus Mumford. The film just ticks the right boxes for me. The cast and the soundtrack is incredible and I love the way it's filmed, every scene, in fact every frame is beautifully presented. It isn't a heartwarming feel good film but it does have elements of comedy. If  you enjoy early 60s folk music, men with beards or cats then do watch this film. 

5.) Pretty Little Liars

And last but not least is my guilty pleasure. It is no secret I love Netflix. A couple of months ago athriftymrs blogged about a proxy called Hola which bypasses American site allowance. I downloaded this and now have accesses to the US Netflix. There is an overwhelming amount of choice and I saw Pretty Little Liars was on there. I watched a couple of episodes when it was first aired on MTV but really didn't have a clue what was going on. It's one of those programmes where you need to watch every single episode because so much happens. I started watching it from series 1 at the start of October and I'm currently on Series 3 episode 9. Each series has 25 episodes each lasting 40 minutes, you do the maths. It's just so addictive plus Ian Harding is a beautiful man. 

And that pretty much sums up my October! It was such a good month in which I definitely relived my student life...my bank account is also resembling it too. I hope everyone is starting to feel all festive, I cannot wait until December is upon us and everyone's mood shifts and decorations can appear! 

 Speak soon

TTFN!

x

Photos that make me smile.

So I've seen on Facebook the '5 photos that make me smile' (I don't know what to call it...tag?!) circulating. I thought I'd post mine in a blog post and I must say now, I could not cut it down to 5, so instead here's my 11 photos that make me smile...doesn't really have the same ring to it. I'm going to put them in order of when they were taken as I spent too long figuring a way of placing them.

Moving swiftly on.

Starting with Steph circa 1996/1997 completely and utterly rocking the home made cardigan/wellies (even though I see no rain)/ice cream all around the face combination. This is 100% my favourite picture of my dad and I of all time. The admiration I have for this man is displayed in this picture and despite the many times he gets on my nerves, he is one of my favourite people and I genuinely enjoy and look forward to the time I get to spend with him.

On the very rare occasions in life you meet someone who you just click with. Although we both attended each other's birthday parties when we were barely walking, it wasn't until we were put together in a school production in sixth form where we realised how similar and how well we got on. She is by far THE funniest person I know and will without a doubt have me in stitches everytime I'm with her. She is one of the few people I managed to stay in contact and actually SEE throughout Uni. This was taken on a snow day where we spent about half an hour actually outside and the rest of the day eating chicago town pizza whilst watching films. I just loves her I do!

This was taken on NYE 2012/2013 and contains a lot of my favourite friends from home. We only see each other around 3 times a year but it will always fall back into how it was in the sixth form common room. Lotta love for these girls.

A lot of people that I know who went/go to Uni end up joining lots of societies and being a social butterfly. I was told your number of Facebook friends would double with all the people you would meet. Alas, I was too lazy to join societies and I fell very comfortably into this little group and I'm so happy I did. I definitely think I prefer a close knit group of friends rather than many 'acquaintances.' That's not to say I didn't have other friends on my course and from my halls...I did, and I made some very good friends, however if I had a problem, it would definitely be someone from this group that I would go to, and I know/hope that I will stay in contact with them for years to come!

This photo was taken at Chloe's baby shower (denim jacket.) As much as I complain about my job, these girls made it enjoyable. Although it's just Chloe and I left of this motley crew, I have met some of the most fantastic humans through it and am still in constant contact with all of them,

Taken at what was my favourite night of 2013, this boy is on of my closest friends. We'll go months without speaking and he'll pop up one day asking my opinion on a pair of shoes. He's hilarious, we're practically the same person and my mother loves him. He is the Patsy to my Eddie.

I was very lucky that Kat introduced me to her course girls. I feel like an honorary Sociology student as they've adopted me into their group.  We went out dressed as mimes and whilst everyone's make up managed to look slick at the end of the night, I looked like a sweaty mess who had an affair with a circus clown. Nevertheless, it was one of the nights in my final year that made all the dissertation stress worth it.

I have no idea how I would've coped without these girls in my final year.  Kat was the best housemate anyone could ask for and Bex would calm me down with her homemade comfort food and Costa breaks. I haven't danced/laughed so much the night this was taken. Sometimes a girls night out is the best medicine.

My 21st birthday, my closest friends and lots of Jager. No more to be said.

And somehow we did it, we graduated. This look of happiness reflects the amount of stress and breakdowns we went through over the last year. There is no-one else I would have liked to go through it with though. I think both Soph and I agree that we'd like to thank Mr Cadbury for aiding us through the hell that is third year.

And last but not least is this cherub. I could not ask for a better friend. I am genuinely shocked at the chances of two people as similar as us being put together in a flat in first year. I would not swap her for anything. This was taken at McBusted over the summer and it was by far one of the best days of the year. I cannot express how much I miss living with her, no one to help me get my shit together or to watch daytime TV with. *sobs*.

N.B. I was going to include a photo of my mum and I however I couldn't find a single decent one on social media and I couldn't find the photo albums ( I have a feeling they're in the shed and aint nobody got time for spiders and cobwebs) but I adore her a lot a lot.

If you reached the end of this post, congratulations! I'm sorry it was so long and rambly. I just have a lot of love to those I'm close with! I'm going to do my October favourites either tonight if I have time, if not tomorrow after work. It's already half way through November...good job Steph.

TTFN!

x

September Favourites!

So I know a lot of people do 'favourites' posts and I was a bit hesitant to do one as it just seemed like I was jumping on the bandwagon. HOWEVER, I realised that although it's a popular post, it differs for every person and therefore becomes unique. Because I've had a lot of time recently to myself and to actually enjoy things I thought it would be apt to conduct some of these together!

1.) Glossybox

So, moving swiftly on, my first item on the agenda is actually beauty related. I know, I know I am in no way a 'beauty blogger' or have the knowledge to be able to pass on words of wisdom.  However, similar to shoes, it really doesn't matter what shape you are, every girl can appreciate a good skin and make up routine. I recently signed up to Glossybox - for those who don't know, it's a beauty box which you receive monthly. The idea is, you receive a selection of products (most are tester sizes but sometimes you do actually get full size items), from hair oils through to skin serums and make up items. When you sign up you fill out your skin type, hair type, make up style and what is most important to you so each box is suited to you.  I have now received two of these boxes, and let me tell you, they are a-mazing. I have discovered so many gems such as the L'Oreal Mythic Oil which I use literally every day, and lots of cool little bits and bobs I would never go and buy for myself.  Very impressed with it so far (also the packaging is lovely and I am such a sucker for fancy boxes...not that you should ever judge a book by it's cover) good job Glossybox...good job!

(August and September's Glossyboxes)

2.) Lovely Kiku Yankee Candle

The next item has been a favourite of mine since last Christmas when I received it in my Secret Santa at work. It is the 'Lovely Kiku' Yankee Candle and I cannot express how incredible this smells. I burnt this every day at uni and somehow completely forgot it existed since coming home. I FINALLY got my life in order (not really...I unpacked a couple of bags, such a dramatist) and rediscovered this most relaxing scent. I'm so gutted it's almost run out so if anyone reading this doesn't know what to get me for Christmas, the hint is there, staring you right in the face.

(mmm candles, kindle, and the majority of my favourite people in one photo, delightful.)

3.) Printed pictures

Bit of a weird thing for a 'favourites' post however this month I have been going crackers over photos.  I bought a disposable camera in May and completely forgot I had it so went and got my photos developed recently (did anyone know you actually had to PAY to get disposable cameras developed nowadays?!) Despite their being numerous thumb shots, it was so nice to see pictures from things that happened over the course of the summer and also the not knowing of what was on there was so exciting! I then went a bit photo heavy and got tonnes printed off on snapfish, I think I'm trying to relive my student life through them, I don't want to escape it just yet!

(a few of the ones that turned out alright!)

4.) Mindy Kaling - 'Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?: (And other concerns)'

Firstly, Mindy Kaling is my spirit animal
Secondly, her book is the shit.
I don't usually like autobiographical books HOWEVER, the US Office and the Mindy Project are two of my favourite shows in which Mindy Kaling plays an important role in so I had to read her book as her writing style is just on point.  It's basically just a tour of her life and how she got to be where she is now. The gold comes however with her small observations which I can scarily relate to.  For example, her need to have to move back for photos due to the size of her head ( a common occurrence for me) and just her general attitude towards weight loss and people who brag about what they eat for their lunch...NO ONE CARES FOR GODSSAKE. I haven't stopped laughing since the start of the book, I'm almost finished and I will be so gutted when it's over, she is literally the queen.

5.) James Bay

I recently discovered the raw voice of James Bay whilst listening to Ella Eyre's 'my playlister' on Radio 1, she chose his song 'Let it Go' which is honestly one of the most beautiful acoustic tracks I have heard in a long time.

6.) Nieves - Winter

I heard this track on a Hannah Maggs video (I am SO thankful her and Stef credit each artist they use) and I haven't stopped listening to it. As we come into Autumn and Winter it's such a chiller song to listen to on the early hour walk to work whilst there's no-one about. I think there is just something so relaxing about his Scottish accent.

And there we gooo! I think I'll (try) and do this at least every other month is not every month (depending on my laziness.) I'm so excited for the return of Autumn and Winter so all the Christmassy things can start reappearing! Hope this was OK! (Again, I have no idea who even reads this, I don't know whether the page views are actually just me refreshing haha, I'm not used to this blogging malarchy but I am enjoying my attempt at it!)

TTFN!
x

Brighton Beach Break!

Holla!

 (for those who don't know, I'm trying to bring holla back, it's going swell.)

So last week I was lucky enough to have 5 days off and rather than sit and fester in my room watching reruns of the US Office I decided to take myself away for a mini beach break in Brighton.  I wasn't able to go abroad this year (insert sad face), firstly because my bank account is constantly looking bare, secondly because I had too many bits and bobs going on over the summer that finding the right time would be challenging and thirdly because, well, there wasn't really anyone to go away with.  Oh and my passport has expired, great.

When my Aunt first moved beside the seaside I would visit regularly, however I hadn't been since before I moved to Nottingham (I think subconsciously I was still getting over the disappoint of being 2 marks off the required grade to get into their Uni.) Regardless of that it had been a looooooong time so it was so lovely to go back and it definitely reaffirmed my love for the South and now I am adamant that at some point in my life I will move down there.

I went on my own and stayed with my Aunt and it was so lovely just to have some time on our own without all the other family members around (not that I don't love my family I must point out, but when we're all together it's sometimes hard to get a word in edgeways!)

Here are a list of fun facts about her.

1) She is the director of a fancy art gallery.

2) David Dimbleby (the guy who presents question time...also the guy who got that weird scorpion tattoo at the age of 75... I think he's most known for the latter) is the chair of said gallery.

3) She was invited to David's for dinner and her dog and his dog got a little bit frisky and now there are Dimbledogs!

(said culprit)

4) She once told Morrissey to never sell out...which he did.

5) (This is my favourite.) Her flat used to belong to Lewis Carroll...amazing.  It is said that the entrance to her garden is the inspiration for the rabbit hole in Alice in Wonderland (see below.)  My inner book worm was squealing!

She is the coolest.

Anywho.  My mini break consisted of plenty of beach walks, catching up with an old friend, shopping around the little independent shops and going to a cinema which served wine.

We started off the week with a long walk along the beach stopping off at a bar with the most amazing sea view (my phone died so I was unable to take a photo but believe me it was just incredible.) Feeling a little boozy and tired, we headed back to her flat and decided to chill and watch a film.

We then woke up and decided to hit the lanes. For those who have never been to Brighton, the lanes are a maze of alleyways which consist of little independent shops and cafes.  It is so cute and I could have spent hours and plenty of money there.  I restrained myself and only bought a couple of bits and bobs...my inner student is still going strong. I did, however, come across the best named shop ever, and I had to do the typical touristy thing and take a picture, well, because those who know me how much I believe in sass within a person.

Amazing.

On the third day (God created land...haha...ha) we went to Hastings which is a half  hour drive from Brighton, it's much quieter. Similar to Brighton town it's full of small vintage shops and it was just nice to wander around (stopping for the BEST fish and chips I have ever had along the way.)

Ooo look how cute and pinterest that bunting is!

We then concluded the day with a trip to the Duke's at Komedia cinema to see Pride which is an absolutely incredible film, I cannot recommend it enough.  Perfect cast, perfect soundtrack and perfect mix of laughter and poignancy. GO AND WATCH IT!

And alas that ended my mini getaway! The last day was spent roadtripping back to the Shire with Kate Bush blaring and lots of bad singing and traffic.  It's safe to say I had the best break and felt fully relaxed on my return, it's at times like these that I wish I was spontaneous enough to pack up my things and move down there, but reality kicks in and that just isn't possible at this point...maybe someday!

TTFN!

x

Mystery Diner?!

So I have just seen that I haven't posted anything for over two weeks.  This has bothered me more than it usually would, simply because I had set myself a simple target to write at least 3 times a week.  It takes 20 minutes out of my day and I enjoy it so WHY have I been so bloody useless?! 

I think the main reason is because I have been working RIDICULOUS hours recently.  As I have previously mentioned, I work at a roadside cafe, those who are friends with me will already know as I complain about it on a daily basis.  Bank holiday weekend meant that the British public in their entirety were travelling and all decided to stop off at the specific time that I was working (or so it seemed.)  I think I worked out that over 4 days I worked 50 hours...and those 50 hours were full of chaos, running around like a headless chicken and dealing with some of the rudest customers I have ever come across.  Because of this, it meant that when I was back at home I literally just crashed.  Similarly, on my days off I slept in till way past midday and didn't want to do anything.

Tiredness + long hours meant that I needed a break to get away and just chill so I popped back up to Nottingham which is where I studied to visit one of my closest friends. 

This is one of the very few photos I managed to take [pretty much every single photo taken of us is to this standard.] Great success. The night consisted of getting myself locked in a bathroom, lots of wine and having my purse stolen. Sounds like a bit of a nightmare but all in all I had a great time and it was just what I needed.

ANYWHO. After that long ramble, I will cut to what I had actually set out to talk about [I tend to get easily sidetracked.]

Amongst the aforementioned rudeness of some customers there was this one lady who came in that managed to shift my mood and attitude completely. This woman comes in occasionally and everytime I serve her she has the ability to make me realise that there is much more to life than a crappy waitressing job.  

I have no idea what her name is, where she's from or what she does as a living, lets call her Mrs X.

About a year ago Mrs X came in and we got talking about my future plans, I had told her that I was interested in music journalism and she urged me to apply to NME for work experience.  When I told her that I didn't think my writing style or my musical knowledge was to the standard they were looking for she replied with 'f*** it, they don't know who you are, they've never seen you're face, if they don't believe you're good enough then you can apply again, or for other things, there is literally nothing to lose.'  That evening I went home and applied and as I have mentioned in previous posts, I got it!  

Mrs X came in again this year,  I must mention at this point that she comes in with her daughter who has severe learning difficulties, she is unable to talk properly and her mother has said that there is no way she will improve.  This year the daughter came running in with a scrap book that Mrs X had made for her consisting of pictures that were taken at her 18th birthday. Mrs X had organised a mini festival as a celebration and many local bands had offered to play and lots of local businesses offered their services to make this day special for the daughter.  It looked incredible.  When I expressed how much effort had gone into this Mrs X replied with 'well she's never going to be able to drive or marry so we might as well go all out' this broke my heart. However, it wasn't said with sadness or poignancy, it was said with joy and energy. Mrs X looks for positivity and making the best out of any situation.  It was with this visit that I realised how much I stress over really inadequate things. There are much much bigger things to worry about and a lot of people who have it worse than I do so there is really no time to worry about money or work or what my future plans are.

So thank you mystery diner [I really wish I knew your name!] You're words of wisdom and positive attitude has stuck with me and I vow to start taking chances and refuse to stress about stupid hiccups that occur. Thank you for dissolving bank holiday stresses and calming me down [also thank you for the very generous tip, even though I'm pretty sure I should be tipping you for enduring my long rants and rambles.]  You rock.

TTFN!

x

Marvellous Motivators

Hello!

So I have no idea what was in the water this week but as I woke up on Monday morning, I felt more motivated than I have ever done before.  Usually I am the queen of procrastination, Netflix, snacking and similar activities.  HOWEVER, Monday came, and as it was my day off (and I haven't been getting many of those recently) I felt like I should really be achieving something with my day. 

So...

I joined the gym.

SAY WHAT?!

This was so out of the blue for me, I hadn't planned it or anything...I mean I have had the intention for a good three years now but I never thought I would actually carry it out! So I went to the shop and got a load of healthy snacks in and I can tell you now (I am more shocked than anyone...believe me) I'm actually enjoying it!  Bearing in mind it's only day 4 so there is PLENTY of room for reversion, however at this precise moment I'm feeling pretty bloody wonderful.  I'm also learning to ignore the arrogant gym goers who can run for an hour without breaking a sweat whilst I'm already breathless just from the walk from my house to the fitness centre! But, like I said, we shall see how long this actually lasts for...

Anyway, moving on nicely from this little update, I recently read a blog post on HelloGiggles about 43 simple ways to make yourself happy. Usually, I don't really give in to these kind of posts as they are usually full of tips such as 'drink plenty of water' or 'partake in a yoga class'...things that everyone knows they should do but don't. However, this post was different, if you click on the link you'll see ideas such as:

*Treat yo' self to a new lip balm

*Listen to rainy mood whilst reading a magazine from cover to cover

*Google old school love letters.

The list goes on but you get the idea...it's full of realistic little ideas to pick yourself up!

My favourite one, however, was, Make a playlist consisting solely of songs you liked in 7th grade (or Year 8 to us Brits.) This, is just fantastic.  I have compiled a list of 5 of my favourite songs from when I was growing up and what I have been doing is playing these songs on my way to gym and believe me...it has worked so much better than all that rubbishy trance music they usually advertise on those 'running tracks' compilation cd's.  These are my current 5 marvellous motivators.

1.) TLC - No Scrubs

Those who know me well will know that this is my favourite song of ALL TIME. I remember this being played at school discos and such and then I rediscovered it a couple of years ago.  I request it on every night out, if we go to karaoke I will have already put my name down for it and I put it onto EVERY playlist I ever make and I am still not bored of it. It is honestly honestly the most sassiest and catchiest song I know.  It just makes me so happy.

2.) Destiny's Child - Bills, Bills, Bills

There seems to be a running theme of  R&B U.S girl bands of the nineties and noughties.  They are so much better than any British girl band and nobody can deny it.  This song is very self explanatory: sass, feminism and Beyonce. Winning combination.

3.) Pat Benatar - Love is a Battlefield

13 Going on 30 has to be my favourite childhood film, I have never got bored of watching it and this song features in it.  It is definitely a 'pick up your hair brush dance around your bedroom' song which is still completely acceptable at the age of 21.  Again, it just puts a great big grin on my face.  Thanks Pat Benatar you Queen.

4.) Backstreet Boys - Everybody

 This has always been the best BB song (I'm sure many will agree) however, I think the real reason I have been loving it recently is because last month, Kat and I were lucky enough to watch Backstreet Boys live. After a couple of ciders and a bit of sun I can honestly say I haven't felt as happy as I was in the moment when they played this song in a long time. We literally danced like no one was watching and we didn't give a f***. It was great.

5.) Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere

I'm lucky enough to have a dad with impeccable music taste which meant that I was introduced to bands such as Fleetwood at a young age. Stevie Nicks is one of my all time heroes and unlike quite a few of their songs, it is impossible to feel down when listening to this gem.

So those are my top 5 motivational tracks that have been on repeat this week. Any bets on how long this new found energy in me will last? I give it a week...

TTFN!

Commitment Issues...

This post is NOT as deep as the title suggests.

Apologies to anyone that reads this blog and was anxious and excited for my work experience day 5 post. I know you all were...all 1 or 2 of you (am I being too optimistic?!)

I think I have commitment issues with this kind of thing.  I had set myself a target to update this page every day as, like I previously said, I wanted it to be  my little place to relive daily stresses and write for leisure, something I haven't been able to do in ages.

I thought I was just rubbish at academic work and deadlines...nope I'M JUST TOO GOD DAMN LAZY AT LIFE. Some things will never change, but from now on I'm going to try my absolute best as I really enjoy writing these posts (translation: I just LOVE writing about myself *flicks hair*...kidding)

Anywhooo enough of the rambling UPDATE TIME!

So in the past week I have gone from drinking Pina Colada on a rooftop terrace in London to a big scary interview and then back to work and cleaning toilets. Life is funny.

My last day at NME was so good, I spent half the day researching celebrity tweets which showed their 'First World Problems.' I have literally never laughed so much whilst watching a YouTube video. If you don't  crack a smile at this then we can't be friends.

I was then given some freebies such as a  tote bag, cool magazine editions and a T-Shirt. Cue the awkward conversation of :

"Do you have this in a bigger size, medium is just not going to cut it"

"Oh they come up really big you'll be fine"

...it doesn't fit. Oh well!

And that concluded my week in Landan! It was super fun and they've said I'm more than welcome to come back for more work experience (it's free labour, why wouldn't they?!) As did the neighboring magazine, so that's exciting! Unfortunately it was straight back to work the following morning, and I haven't had a day off since.

EXCEPT for Wednesday when I had this big scary assessment day for a graduate scheme at this huge company. For those who don't know how assessment days work, you are literally observed from the minute you walk in to the minute you walk out...it's harsh. I won't bore you with all the details but basically we had this big presentation to do, only an hour to prepare for it and cut to the chase...it didn't go well...at all.

Needless to say I didn't get the job but hey ho, back to the drawing bored. It's just a bit rubbish not knowing what the plan is, but I guess not many people do...woah, things have just taken a dark turn.

On that note, I shall end things here.  I promise to start doing some more posts which are less about my day to day life and more accessible to the wider community.  I was just so excited about my mini placement that I had to share it somewhere, thanks to those who have been reading...I can't see who but I can see that a few people have kept coming back which is lovely lovely stuff.

TTFN! 

x

Work Experience | DAY THREE AND FOUR

I thought I'd merge these two together as compared to Monday and Tuesday there was much less going on (however saying that, they were still a world away from my day job at Little Chef... pretty much any other job is.)  I'm finally getting used to the big and scary morning commuters, in fact I felt like one whilst walking down one of the level escalator things.  A woman wouldn't move out the way and as I politely asked "excuse me" she responded with "I don't understand why everyone is in such a rush all the time"...hey lady it's 9AM on Wednesday morning why do you think?! I responded calmly and politely with "maybe it's because we all have places to be" whilst flicking my hair with allllll the sassy feels.

Wednesday consisted of lots of small tasks such as constructing a list of the 20 best festivals for NME readers and producing an excel document of artists birthdays/deaths/album reissues. After lunch [FYI, it was another jacket potato day] I was asked to search through the NME archives searching for a specific interview.  I was looking at 1976 and it was so cool seeing gigs advertised for £4.  Not only that, but there was a huge article about Gary Glitter pre-conviction...awkward.  Here's a spread about Jimi Hendrix...

Yesterday was more hands on.  We were given a selection of 6 tracks and we had to review two of them.  I  thought I'd venture out of my comfort zone and chose:

M.O. 'Dance On My Own'

Bondax - 'All I See'

I got to talk about TLC and sass in reviewing M.O. ..my two favourite things.  It was just such a good opportunity to hear music that I wouldn't necessarily choose to listen to.

We also did a couple of 'answers to the big questions which was cool!

As I said...because the first two day were so exciting with so much going on, the next two days were quite an anticlimax. *Not complaining, promise!*

I rounded off Thursday with a trip to the theatre to see Daytona which starred Harry Shearer (the guy that does all those voices on The Simpsons.)  Can't say much about it other than it was a good time filler...the attempt of a New York accent by Maureen Lipman was so cringe worthy I literally wanted the ground to swallow me up through pure embarrassment for her.

As I'm writing this, I'm reaching the end of my last day, sad times...maybe I'll upload that one later this eve...maybe I'll fall into a Netflix coma the minute I get home...who knows.

TTFN!

Work Experience | DAY TWO

Day two in the big smoke consisted of free beer, live music, top jacket potatoes, researching, transcribing and then catching up with some of my favourite humans. It was FANTASTIC.

Luckily my train wasn't delayed this time which kicked the day off splendidly meaning I had time to grab an iced lemonade from Costa (FYI they are the best. things.ever.) I managed to walk into the office not the sweaty mess I was on the previous day but cool and collected and all professional (ish.)

We started off by sorting out the mail which isn't as boring as it sounds! It takes like two minutes and then we get to distribute it and get chatting to the office, so it's a good opportunity to actually get to know the staff!

This was followed by researching news stories which hadn't been covered yet, and we found out some pretty cool stuff. (If you go on the NME website and see the article about Jay Z and his Californian prison and school outburst...I contributed to that!)

It was then time for our lunch break before we headed down to the NME Basement and can I just express how GOOD the jacket potatoes are here, literally, they are incredible (I am a fiend for any potato products.)

As we reached the Basement we were told to take a seat, grab a beer and chill out...they call this work.  

As we were escorted in to the studio (it was TINY) there were only about 15 other people with us so it was so intimate.  Kiesza came on with just an acoustic guitar and opened with her best known song 'Hideaway'.  It was so refreshing seeing a stripped back version of this...the girl can sing!  She then played two more songs including a cover of Nirvanas 'Heart Shaped Box' which was a-mazing.  She also came out and met all of us and she was so lovely, we found out that her video for 'Hideaway' was filmed in ONE SHOT...ONE! (If anybody hasn't seen it, go and watch and you will understand why I was literally gob smacked when she told us.) 

As we headed back up to the office we were given the apparently 'gruelling' task of sifting through last weeks and this weeks issues of the magazine and tagging all of the photos. I was warned it was a boring job but it meant I got to see the new issue before it goes on sale to the public so in my opinion...not so rubbish! Whilst we were doing that, we saw that the literary references in songs article which I had helped with had gone up on the website and it was so cool seeing the outcome of my first task!  You can see it here :) 

As the day came to a close I met up with a couple of good friends.  Kat took me to a pub by the Thames and we drank far too much wine...it was awesome (however, I am feeling the effects whilst I'm typing this. Hangovers, I haven't missed you.)

And that concluded day two! As I'm writing this, I'm half way through the week and I'm so gutted at how fast it's going. Boo :(

TTFN!

Work Experience | DAY ONE

So over the next couple of weeks I'm stepping completely out of my comfort zone starting with an incredibly opportunity which took me months to pluck up the courage to apply for. 

I've been lucky enough to undertake a week's work experience at NME magazine (for those who don't know, it's the UK's leading music magazine...pretty rad.)

 (I got a fancy pass and everything!)

As I read this weeks copy of the magazine on the train, I found myself submerged into pages of reviews of bands that I had never heard of.  Third year work load and dissertation stress meant that I fell behind on any hobbies that I may have had...I hadn't downloaded any new music for about 3 months or picked up a book that I wanted to read for pleasure throughout the whole year. Due to lack of funds I  had to cancel my subscription to the magazine after second year and then only bought it on the odd occasion.

So I cannot express how nervous I was walking into the Blue Fin Building (a huge set of offices with what feels like a gazillion floors.) I thought I would be plunged into a world which I wasn't so familiar with any more.

However, all these anxieties completely dissolved within the first 10 minutes of arriving. As we were shown around the building and introduced to the office, it was clear how laid back the atmosphere was. Side note: My desk is situated right next to The Shard and they have a roof terrace which overlooks the London Skyline with a pop up bar on Thursdays and Fridays...super cool.

Yesterday's duties included researching artists and songs with literary references so it turns out my degree did amount to something, HOORAY! We also did some research on weird facts about musicians which was incredibly interesting! 

Two of us were then approached by the project manager asking us whether we wanted to come down to the NME Basement and watch Kiesza ('Hideaway') whilst beer tasting tomorrow (today)... hang on, let me think about that...oh alright then, if we must.

This concluded day one and I will just say, it was bloody amazing*.

I have a feeling day two will be equally as good and I shall be updating about it tomorrow.

TTFN!

*I forgot to mention, as we walked out the office we were approached by This Morning who interviewed us about our make-up routines (I'm assuming panda eyes and shiny faces are in this summer.) I stumbled over my words and told them my feelings about Phil and Holly and my distaste for Ruth and Eamonn (off camera obviously)...good job Steph.  Apparently it will be aired on Wednesday so we'll see if it makes the cut.

Graduation Goggles

Has anyone seen that episode of How I Met Your Mother where the group discuss how you are more likely to appreciate something once it is no longer a part of your life? (That did not mean to sound as cheesy as it did.)  They used graduation as an example.  Once you have graduated all the rubbishy parts of University (or college as they refer to it) are soon forgotten, i.e. the stress of third year and the dissertation, the lack of money, the 3AM existential crisis' and just the general fear of the future. 

It has only been three months since I finished Uni and whilst I love living in a household where there is more to breakfast lunch and dinner than baked beans on toast, all I can think about is how much I miss living with this human and the little quirks of the student lifestyle. 

 1.) NAPS. Naps are the greatest thing to happen to the day. Kat (see above, aka the greatest human to grace this earth) and I are the queens of justifying ANYTHING, so justifying an afternoon siesta was a part of everyday.  If we made it to a lecture, we would deserve a nap.  If we had a hangover, we would deserve a nap. And if we managed to wake up before midday then a celebratory 2PM nap would be on the cards.  Alas, my napping days are over as apparently completing a 9 hour shift which began at 6:00AM should not be rewarded in the real world ...hmph.

2.) DAYTIME TV. On every student blog I read, Jeremy Kyle is always mentioned.  This is because we, as students, need a pick me up...a reminder that things could be worse.  It does get repetitive though and after the first month of religiously watching Jeremy, the same stories kept cropping up.  What I really miss is watching 'This Morning' everyday (except for Fridays...explanation to come.)  I felt like Phil and Holly were my stand in parents. They would be there when I was at my lowest (hungover, hungry or procrastinating) and never failed to distract me for 2 hours.  At this point I must express the sheer disappointment of flicking on the TV on a Friday and seeing Ruth and Eamonn's face's on my screen.  Kat and I DETEST this couple and we really have no reason to...we just do...screw you Ruth and Eamonn.

3.) BFA (Best Friend Activities). When else is it acceptable to rearrange your room at 2AM , make bacon sandwiches whilst crying to P.S. I Love You at 3AM or put a day aside to bake cupcakes. There is no other time.  Living back at home means going to bed an acceptable hour, getting up to go to work and complying to 'house rules.' Where's the fun gone?!

Basically what I'm saying is that I'm in complete denial that 'student days' are over and never again will I be able to share my late night panics with someone who will sit and listen and reply with 'pull yourself together'.  Man I love ya!

TTFN! 

Introductions are in order!

Hello!

(It seems very strange addressing maybe someone, possibly no-one...I'm new to this...evidently.)

I'm Steph.

 I recently dressed up all swish and fancy (see above...heads up, graduation robes are WARM) and somehow graduated with a BA (Hons) in English. Believe me, I am as shocked as everyone else. Many a day during University would be spent days festering in my room with a bag of cheese balls watching Netflix (why I am not skinny I will never know) procrastinating up until the point where I would have a mini panic attack due to the lack of time I had remaining to submit an assignment.  Nevertheless I managed to pull my finger out during the last remaining three months and didn't do too bloody bad at all if I don't say so myself!

Anywho...getting back to introductions, (are introductions meant to be long? straight to point? too many brackets?! ugh.) 

I now have no idea whatsoever what to do with my life. I am told 'the world is my oyster' which is not so true when my overdraft is completely maxed out and I'm earning minimum wage at a roadside service station (boo hiss boo!)

I had decided for a while that I wanted to set up my own personal space where I can showcase my ability to rant and ramble (mostly rambling.)  I have been so concerned as to what category my blog would come under (ie lifestyle, music, entertainment, career etc) and then I came to the conclusion that it can just be a 'little bit of everything' place with not necessarily any order or continuity (mirroring myself) for me to write about what I want.  I will mostly be sharing the woes of job hunting, observations of day to day life, things that make me happy and just general chit chat!

This is all very new so we'll see how it goes :)

Thank you for stopping by! (Again, am I talking to anyone? Or just myself? Oh Steph...)

TTFN!