Room Revamp

Recently I decided that, now I've grown into a 17 year old working woman, I was going to treat the hell out of myself. As you saw previously, I took a day to town to do just that. But there was still one thing missing, still one thing that bothered me each time I woke up in the morning and when I went to bed at night; my bedroom.

The icky lime and hot pink walls covered in finger marks and blue-tack stains from old posters about my favourite books or TV shows, the worn carpet splotched with unknown stains here and there, the run down old chest of drawers and the overflowing bookcases. Something had to be done. 

So during this week that I was off school for half-term I decided to take it upon myself to do a little bit of DIY. So I threw on some old trackies and a comically over-sized shirt and got to work on painting the ceiling and painting the walls which took forever and idk how I'm still alive.

After some tears, a lot of sweat and a little bit of blood I finally finished painting. The colour I decided on was the beautiful Chic Shadow from Dulux which is primarily grey but has subtle purple undertones. Perfect, I know. And it's leaps and bounds better than those putrid colours 12 year old me decided on.

Next came the trip to IKEA. Who doesn't love IKEA? All that possibility squashed into that little flat pack of happiness. And how can you not love the market place? So many itty bitty little bits and bobs to fill your already brimming trolley ending with a Swedish meatball or two. 

The only furniture I really needed to change in my bedroom was my chest of drawers because I may or may not have had an accident involving some fire. So, keeping with my current colour scheme of white, I bought the Malm chest of drawers with 4 drawers. I also bought some extra shelves for my two Billy bookcases because I'm a bibliophile.

I will fill that shelf

It was very hard for me to contain myself when I got to the market place, and this was where I spent the majority of my time. Because I removed my fairy lights from my wall I needed a new light, and because I have a late night reading problem, I needed one beside my bed, so I went for the this Tertial floor lamp. Also, as I removed an old picture from my wall, I got this awesome and quite contradictory picture.

To decorate my new chest of drawers  I got some little LED tealights, (batteries not included, I learnt that the hard way) because of the fire thing and three mismatched candle holders; this little lantern in silver, this marble beauty in black and a flower wire design. I also bought this candle holder/plant pot to keep my makeup brushes in.

Finally, as a bit of an impulse buy, I decided on these three little cacti which I have fondly named after my three favourite prickly fictional characters. So I'd like you to meet (from left to right) Coin, Valentine and Draco! gahh I'm so weird

Sorry that there was a bit of a gap between this and my previous post but interior design is very time consuming it may seem. I hope you guys enjoyed it and, as always, tick a box and leave a comment!

N x

'Hollow City' - Review

(a spoiler free review)

NAME : Hollow City

AUTHOR : Ransom Riggs

SERIES : Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children (#2)

RATING : 3/5

REVIEW :  Being a fan of the the first book and having read it when it first came out on recommendation by a friend, I was looking forward to the release of the second. However months went by and I read many more books in that space of time that I began to forget the excitement I had when reading Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children. I let the release of Hollow City pass me by and it went to the back of my mind.

That is until the announcement for the release of the third and final book in the trilogy, Library of Souls. I remembered reading Miss Peregrine's Home... and was thoroughly disappointed in myself that I didn't read Hollow City sooner.

The book is set in 1940's England, and picks up directly after the events of the first book. The children are on a boat in the middle of the ocean with their Headmistress, and protector, Miss Peregrine, still in the state she was at the end of Miss Peregrine's Home... 

The story progresses as the peculiar children, each one blessed with a peculiar gift ranging from creating fire with their hands to having control over the bees that live in their stomach to being completely invisible, attempt to evade capture from the enemy wights, who are out to catch and kill all peculiars and their protectors, and visit more time loops in an attempt to save their beloved headmistress. 

Just as you believe the story is about to conclude, a twist arises that is almost unbearable and you must pick up the next book ASAP to see what happens, as I did.

The use of creepy, antique photos throughout the series really does heighten the reading experience, for me at least, as you are able to in vision with absolute clarity the scenes and characters, creating a uniquely original form of art that combines perfectly with the story.

I would give this book a 3/5 rating, as although the story did carry on in a smooth manner, the photos I believe may have been a slight limitation as to where the story could have gone, but I definitely recommend this book besides.

Treating Myself

Today was my first Saturday off both work and volunteering since my birthday (in July) so, naturally, I was going to make the most of it. And by make the most of it, I meant going into Belfast and treating myself... because I'm worth it. Sorry, I couldn't help it. So I hopped on the train by myself because all my friends work weekends and off I went.

There's something so rejuvenating about taking a long train ride by yourself. I couldn't quite put my finger on it, but I think it has something to do with having the ability to plug in your music without being rude and turning it up full volume, looking out at the world speeding past and just having time to think. It's beautiful.

The journey ended too soon for my liking even though it was like 45 mins and I was thrown back into the drastically swift world of the city. My first stop, after Paperchase that is, was Lush. I haven't been to Lush in over a year, regretfully, so I decided that I had to buy at least one thing before I was allowed to leave. I was wandering around aimlessly when one of the employees thrust a rather large beaker under my nose and told me to smell. It was Christmas in a jug. Perfection. He asked me what I was looking for, and under my request he showed me the moisturisers. I was treated like a queen. When I eventually left 20 minutes later I exited with plenty of free samples and the nicest smelling moisturiser ever. 

I then made a beeline for one of my favourite places: Waterstones. For those of you who read my blog and don't know what Waterstones is, firstly, shame on you, and secondly, it's basically the British version of Barnes and Nobel. Sadly on this visit I didn't buy any novels, but I did however buy a beautiful notebook that I cannot wait to fill with whatever takes my fancy.

Since I ended up staying in Waterstones for much longer than I anticipated (as per usual), I decided to head upstairs to their little in store cafe where I had the most beautiful strawberry cream filled muffin with a cup of coffee. As I always have a book in my bag, I just whipped out Hollow City by Ransom Riggs and sat in quiet contentment for an hour and watched the world go by. 

I then decided that I should actually buy something to show for my trip, so I headed on into my favourite shops, namely H&M, Topshop and New Look. I bought a cheeky little mustard coloured sweater, because autumn, and a new pair of ripped black jeans.

My final (and favourite) place in Belfast is this iconic little second-hand bookshop called Keats & Chapman down one of the city's backstreets. It's one of those shops that has no order and has books piled right to the ceiling in stacks that are sure to topple if you move the wrong book. After a good half an hour of searching, I found and bought myself another copy of The Great Gatsby that I could annotate and make notes all over without feeling guilty about it. It was the perfect ending to a great day.

That's all for now guys! I hope you enjoyed reading this little post and I'd really appreciate a comment or a tick in one of the three boxes below to give me some feedback!

ttyl,
N x

Reasons I Love Autumn

 theautumnlovers.tumblr.com

Extra warm beds in extra cold houses. The thought of not having to rise, but being able to keep snuggled in among the pillows and covers with a hot water bottle and a cup of coffee. Being able to balance your laptop on your knee and discover the new shows slowing waking and coming back to life, eagerly anticipated.

Drawing back the curtains to be met with a day bathed in dimmed golden light as the sun struggles to brighten the world beyond the mountains. Those first chunky rays breaking through the branches of the ever emptier trees to cast rich shadows across the dew dropped petals and blades of grass.

Crisp cold mornings that can be cut with a knife. Layers of cool air beginning to creep between the folds of your clothing leaving you no choice but to layer up with thick woolen sweaters and scarves that wind their way up your neck and down your chest. Breathing out and watching the air swim and swirl in front of you before vanishing into nothing, and being filled with anticipation as you suck in your next breath, wondering why you ever wanted to stay in bed.

Trees and flowers and birds preparing themselves for the months ahead. Watching as trees grow silent, allowing their noise to be whisked into the air and dropped to the ground beneath. Golden browns and rusted reds littering the pavement and leaving no option but to crash through with wellies and delight. The fruits of their labour swelling and plummeting into the high grass, cracking and splitting to reveal the shiny conkers within.

Consuming hot drinks from take-away cups, fingerless gloved hands wrapped around the styrofoam cup, absorbing every ounce of possible heat. Or sitting curled at the window of a coffee shop with a book in your lap and a pumpkin latte sat next to you, the perfect scent for autumn.  

Walking home under skies that grow ever darker. Being absorbed by the night.

September Favourites 2015

It only felt like yesterday when the first of September came plummeting around the corner to bring summer to an abrupt  and painful end for me and James S. Potter who rode the Hogwarts Express to his first year at Hogwarts *squeals*, yet here we are, October already. But do not despair, because October means 2 things: Autumn and Hallowe'en.

However, now it is time to lament the rude beauty that was September and to share with you guys a few of my favourite things from this last month.

The first was my only read in September (only cause it was so motherf*ckin' big) and was the infamous 'A Game Of Thrones' by the great, yet somewhat creepy, George R. R. Martin. 

I was a late arrival to the GoT fandom, but I've decided to make up for my tardiness by reading the series that inspired the show. It has to be said that I wasn't expecting great things from this series, having watched the show and seeing how well it was dramatized, however I was pleasantly surprised to realise how wrong I was. 'A Game Of Thrones' is a beautifully written, well thought out piece of literature that depicts an easy to follow story (if you pay attention). 

The writing style is not what I expected at all, and the character descriptions are slightly different from the way they are on the show, but what page-to-screen adaptation isn't? There is stunning imagery and beautiful descriptions that allow you to create the perfect image in your mind's eye. My personal favorite line, and the one that sticks in my memory the most, is this - "Black and white and grey, all the shades of truth" as it so, well, true. For me, this was a definite favourite and I urge you to pick up the series, TV or book, if and when you have the chance. (FYI there are some raunchy scenes so DO NOT listen to the audiobook when your parents are within listening distance...)

My favourite music from this month is an older album, but has to be the masterpiece that is 'Glitterbug' by The Wombats.

If you regularly read my posts, or have seen a previous one of my own, you may have noticed that I do a Song Of The Day at the end of each post. I have used some of The Wombats songs there before, but I think now is the time to give them a proper tribute. 'Glitterbug' is the band's 3rd album and my favourite so far. Some of you may already know some of their songs, as they are used as background music for TV shows like The Inbetweeners, and that's exactly where I first found them. This is a definite favourite for me would be right up the street of anyone who likes the older, alternative indie brit pop. I'll leave a link to the album sample at the end of the post, and I highly recommend you give it a listen.

A TV show that I have been loving this September is Doctor Foster shown on BBC1 on Wednesday nights at 9pm. 

I know not everyone who reads my blog is British, or has access to British TV, but if you ever happen across this show online I would definitely recommend giving it a watch. It's a six part drama surrounding the life of Dr. Gemma Foster, who recently found out her husband was having an affair. It follows the complete upheaval of her life, and how she reacts to the news. Next Wednesday is the season finale and has been set up for a heart-wrenching and climactic finish which promises to keep the audience on the edge of their seats until the end.

My finale miscellaneous favourite of September simply has to be my favourite piece of stationary; my pencil case.

Now I know this seems like a silly thing to have as a favourite, but when I found it in Urban Outfitters (£8) I could not stop laughing. It has gotten me some pretty funny looks (by teachers especially) but it was totally worth it - I laugh every time I take it out of my bag. It's always the simple things...

And so that concludes my September favorites for 2015. Thank you very much for making it to the end of my rambles, and as always, a comment and a share would mean a great deal.

Song of the day : 'Glitterbug : Album Sampler' - The Wombats

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qsiueB-2u0U

N x

TMI

As I'm new to the whole blogging thing, and because one day I hope at least one person will find my page full of ramblings and take the time to sit and read what I have to say, I guess you'd probably like to know a little about me.

Yes, I know that I am one of the last people to participate in this tag, but really, I've never had much use for it before. But now I'm here and I'd like to share a little about myself...

1. What are you wearing? My school uniform and a hoodie because the house is freezing and I'm only home

2. Have you ever been in love? No, but hopefully I will be one day

3. Have you ever had a terrible break up? That would be hard because I've never actually been on a date with anyone

4. How tall are you? 5ft7"

5. How much do you weigh? That's TMI even for me 

6. Any tattoos? No, but I hope to get one next year

7. Any piercings?  Nope, piercings never appealed to me

8. OTP? Magnus Bane and Alec Lightwood

9. What is your favorite show? Don't get me started... Right now, probably Game of Thrones

10. Who are your favorite bands? The Kooks, The Wombats, The Fratellis, Two Door Cinema Club ect.

11. Something someone you miss? John

12. Favorite song?  Wonderwall - Oasis (original I know)

13. How old are you? 17

14. Zodiac sign? Cancer

15. Quality you look for in a partner? Trust

16. What is your favorite quote? "I was within and without, simultaneously enchanted and repelled by the inexhaustible variety of life" - F. Scott Fitzgerald

17. Who is your favorite actor? Benedict Cumberbatch

18. Favorite color? Purple

19. Loud music or soft? Both

20. Where do you go when you’re sad? Under my duvet

21. How long does it take you to shower? 10-30 mins depending entirely upon the shittiness of the day.

22. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? 30 mins

23. Have you ever been in a physical fight? I've been floored by a rugby ball if that counts?

24. Turn on’s? Good music/literature taste

25. Turn off’s? Obnoxiousness 

26. The reason I joined blogger? To be heard, I guess

27. What are your fears? Frickin' spiders. Creepy little buggers with all those eyes...

28. Last thing that made you cry? All The Bight Places - Jennifer Niven 

29. Last time you said you loved someone? To my best friend in school earlier

30. Meaning behind your blog name? I'm yet to be defined as a person.

31. Last book you read? Shatter Me - Tahereh Mafi

32. The book you’re currently reading? Unravel Me - Tahereh Mafi

33. Last show you watched? New Tricks

34. Last person you talked to? My mum

35. The relationship between you and the last person you texted? Grandparent

36. What is your favorite food? Ice cream

37. Place you want to visit? NYC

38. Last place you were? An ice cream parlour

39. Do you have a crush? Yes

40. Last time you kissed someone?  Last year I think? But technically they kissed me.

41. Last time you were insulted? Idk I block out the haters

42. Favorite flavor of sweet? Blackcurrant 

43. What instruments do you play? Piano

44. Favorite piece of jewelry? An opal necklace

45. Last sport you played? Badminton

46. Last song you sang? I made similar noises to that from'This Is Berk' from HTTDY

47. Favorite pick up line? Haven't a clue

48. Have you ever used it? I've never used any pick up line

49. Last time you hung out with anyone? Last period during school today

50. Who should answer these questions next? Anyone who feels like it

That was a very basic cover of random things I'm into or experiences I've had, but I'll probably reveal more about myself in other pieces a write. It's inevitable.

Song of the day : 'Wonderwall' - Oasis 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DvRCykzHy4

N x

Authors are cute..?

I want to be an author. Simple.

I'm lucky enough to write creatively without much persuasion or effort the same way as some people can play tennis really well or know how to fit in with new people in that envious way they do, and I am eternally grateful for this. I have been given a gift that enables me to create something out of nothing and have it sound good, and one day I hope to be able to share my gift with people in the same way that so many have shared theirs with me.

To me, being an author, fact or fiction it doesn't matter, takes a great deal of time and patience and hard work and dedication just to finally hold the finished product in your hand, let alone trying to get someone make your little black words into a book, and another step entirely to get people to read it. It's a damn hard thing to do.

This is why when I tell someone that I want to write for a living I don't want them to say 'Aww! That's cute!' (as they have so many times before) like what I have to say is trivial or irrelevant. I have been made to feel inferior because of my dreams because they don't seem to understand how hard they are to achieve and it makes me feel weak. It makes me feel like I'm throwing my life away. It makes me feel as if they are saying 'Aww! She's still following her childhood dreams? I wonder when she's going to realise that the world isn't made of childhood dreams.'

Well you know what?

The world should be made of childhood dreams.

My entire childhood was dedicated to reading the nearest paper or the newest Jacqueline Wilson novel, to writing stories about mermaids in the pond at the bottom of the garden or Christmas trees that came to life each year. My childhood was filled so entirely with words it's a wonder I can't spell better today. Those stories impacted me more than I knew then and more than I know now and I want to give someone the opportunity to feel the way that words felt to me, to inspire them to follow their dreams because we only have one chance at getting our lives right and if we don't do what makes us happy then what's the point?

So this goes to everyone out there who thinks being an author or being a writer is a trivially 'cute' job that anyone can do. The next time that someone tells you they want to write for the rest of their lives because it's their dream, don't demean their choices because it isn't what you would choose to do. Don't make them feel less of a person because they don't want to be a doctor or a social worker or a psychologist. Don't make them feel like they won't ever help or inspire people the same way other jobs would, because I don't know where I'd be without them.  

(Shoutout to those coming from Mrs Speciale, leave a comment :))

Song of the day : 'Down in the Valley' - The Head and the Heart
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iSQGWpy0qY

N x