New Year, New Beginnings!

 Welcome back everyone, it's been a while that's for certain! How are we all? 

A warm welcome back to the blog and of course a New Year and a New Beginning!

 I feel like the last two years have been pretty tough on everyone for obvious reasons. However I also feel like it's been a beneficial time for every single one of us to take the time we were given and use it as a learning curve and to truly discover ourselves and our interests.

With the New Year here and new beginnings in motion, what New Year Resolutions have you made or what objectives have you set for yourselves individually? 

Personally prior to this year I have always set New Year's Resolutions but never really focused on them or stuck to them but with the approach to this year I have felt entirely different and wanted to keep to them as best as I can... 

Whether that be to read as many books as I can, save as much as possible, reach a weight goal, set aside some time for myself and my mind or to keep up with my fitness.... We all have different goals and aspirations but I do feel like my outlook towards the New Year is different and on a personal note I have found myself to be even more motivated than ever to ensure my New Years Resolutions are met and that my mind is focused. 

On a personal level, I have found it really important over the last few years to take some time out for my mind and my recovery whether that is physically or mentally. To meditate or to find a way that really helps you to set aside time for your mind as over the last few years the world has faced some truly tough times and there has been a lot of physical pain that has been inflicted onto everyone.

I have found reading or zoning out from the world by listening to Podcasts or music on Spotify or whatever platform you may use has been a god send. 

I am sure you can all agree with me when I start discussing this with you all... 

During lockdowns and most likely beforehand, I found myself always on my phone and not knowing when to shut off or to even tell myself enough is enough! I would constantly be replying to work emails, texts or scrolling through social media.... 

So on that note, that's why I have been away for as long as I have. Mentally and physically it's always good to just take five minutes away (or in my case nearly a whole year!)

Taking that small amount of time for yourself and your mind is key! 

For a while, I thought it was a selfish move and I was worried about not giving my all to certain things but sometimes enough is enough and you just need the time to recharge. Batteries need recharging too just like we all do! 

I honesty feel like we all have learned and grown so much more than we may have done if there wasn't any lockdowns though. I also feel like it was good to strip everything back to basics and appreciate every second we have. 

Time for reflection is always essential.

For me personally, leaving my phone at home whilst I am out on a walk or clearing out my wardrobe to get ready to donate clothing to charity etc or even just to enjoy the time we have at home. An hour a day less releases so much stress and as I am known for my catchphrase "I'm Stressed!" then you'll know it's very beneficial. 

Don't be afraid to take some time for yourselves and I don't care how many times I have to reiterate this as it's vital for your mind and wellbeing! 

Anyhow welcome everyone to the New Year and I wish you all the best for 2022, it feels great to be back and I can't wait to hear what your New Year's Resolutions are or even how you've managed to keep positive and focused! 

Lots of love and I'll be back very soon! 

xxxx

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'Mexing It Up With @ MI COCINA!'

 

Happy Sunday and of course Happy Valentine's Day to you all! I hope you all have had a day full of love and joy, just like the remaining 364 days a year! Or at least put on Netflix with a nice handful of chocolates! 

Well for those of you who have seen my Instagram stories recently you will know where I am going with this blog but for those who haven't you soon will do! 

Before I go off on a tangent I will tag a link below for you all to head over to the website and place your orders...  

MI COCINA

I simply can't stress enough how excited I have been to write this FOOD blog! Ever since picking up the takeaway it's been on my mind with the importance of sharing with you all. 

Now when I say this food is out of this world, it's simply out of this WORLD! Before I jump into reviewing the food and presentation I just wanted to share how perfect I think the idea of having a Mexican themed restaurant is in Winchester is. With living in Winchester for over three years the one thing I would say that's been missing is a Mexican style restaurant and waa-laaa! 

The whole structure of the restaurant and tapas vibe that MI COCINA provides just as a takeaway let alone when lockdown is lifted will be superb! Especially during the summer time with friends or your partner and of course a lovely cocktail what more could you possibly want?

So with that picture in mind that I have created let's dive straight into reviewing the food. I thought I would let the pictures of the food do the talking initially... 

I mean surely you can see why I have left the photos to it. Is there anything that I need to say? I mean just WOW!! Again, the food is absolutely out of this world! The food is beyond stunning there's just not enough words to explain how incredible the food is! 

Everything from the presentation to the tiny little details are just AMAZING! 

WOW! 

The team are absolutely fantastic and super efficient as well which is an added bonus! 

For those of you who know me will know that I am obsessed with Mexican food, it's up there for being one of my favourite types of food so of course I am super impressed with the menu selection. 

I would highly recommend taking a look at there Instagram page as they share an incredible amount of how they make the food and the hard work that goes into making the food. So please take a little look and be sure to order some Mexican food as you won't be disappointed for sure!

If your fancying something different and fancying dishes to share then I would highly recommend MI COCINA and I would definitely rate MI COCINA as a 5***** plus!! 

As I draw this blog to a close I thought it would be an idea to ask for your opinions on what blogs you would like to see more of. With there not looking like a nearby end to this lockdown currently then I have the time to upload much more content than I previously have... So let me know if there's anything you'd like to see more of in the comments below or on my Instagram. 

With it being Valentine's Day, I can leave a little hint for some upcoming blogs which will be some fashion content of course so there isn't any need to fret regarding that front as they will be coming very soon! 

Be sure to wrap up warm as the weather hasn't been the warmest and we certainly have needed to layer up! Though the warmer weather is meant to be coming this week so fingers crossed for that! 

With love as always, 

xxxx 

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A Looksie Into My Autumn/Winter Wardrobe Favourites...

Let's be honest here does anyone even know what day it is anymore? Lockdown has completely taken over our 'Friday' feeling! I couldn't even tell you if it's 11 in the morning or night time anymore. Time seems like its just merged into one and it feels like our lives have just been placed on hold for now. 

But that's okay, it's okay we can watch as much Netflix and shop online as much as we like now without feel guilty.... can't we?

  

As this is the first blog of the year what better way to start than with a new Autumn/Winter inspired peek into my wardrobe... Of course I can promise you the following: Monochrome Madness, lots and lots of Bold Prints and an occasional dash of colour... I won't rock the boat I promise!! 😉 

The amount of times that I have stopped and started this blog goes beyond being able to count anymore it's actually ridiculous! However, this blog clearly needs posting as we aren't to far away from heading into Spring now and don't worry I won't be as late with styling a sneak peek into my Spring wardrobe faves like I have with the Autumn/Winter looks!  

Jumpsuits paired with blazers are very chic but when you add a little print it turns the outfit up a notch and you can wear the outfit from day to night so it's fair to say jumpsuits have been a key best friend of mine in my wardrobe for several years.

During the Autumn/Winter seasons it's key to layer up and what better way than layering your outfit up with a Faux Fur long black coat, roll neck jumper and to add a touch of the Anya inspired look then pair that with an oversized animal print shirt to tuck into your jeans or harem trousers. Not forgetting, cute ankle boots with a nice oversized handbag.

Blazers galore are hidden in my wardrobe that's for sure. Personally, adding a solid white with a chequered print just adds a dash of Winter to your wardrobe whilst also looking very chic and comfy. It also adds the inspired new trend "Shacket" which is a shirt and jacket combined. Pretty cool, right? Pairing this look up or down is again another option but adding a nice heeled boot gives the extra wow factor to a fairly simplistic look!

As you can see oversized printed shirts especially with the marble print are a staple piece in my wardrobe. What I love with oversized shirts you can style them in multiple ways. I would suggest always sizing up so you can decide to wear it as a dress with a cute little belt like I have in the above photo or just for the extra added baggy effect. 

Mixing from shirts to a jumper is a key fashion trend currently and easy to style up and down regardless of whether your styling up to watch the latest Netflix shows or just to style wearing round the house whilst you are putting the bins out or cleaning the house for the millionth time! 

Either way it's nice to dress up slightly whilst we can and these sorts of tops are perfect to pair with a nice pair of jeans or a cute mini skirt with tights and over the knee boots paired with an oversized teddy coat and a chunky skirt. 

It kind of gives me very Blair Waldorf and Clueless vibes in terms of fashion, anyone else feeling this to?

Cropped boxy jumpers are spot on trend this year but to top that is mixing the jumpers into yet another shirt material for the sleeves and bam you have a key statement piece in your closet again. To add that extra wow factor Shein have added pearls onto the jumper and boy don't we applaud them for catching three key fashion trends at present.

Obviously it wouldn't be an Autumn/Winter looksie into my wardrobe without seeing a pair of ankle boots now would it? I am absolutely obsessed with these ankle boots as they give that sort of hiker boots style to them alongside that chic feel to them with the snake print suede detail that sits at the front of the boot!

Again this top is screaming "Blair Waldorf" vibes once again with the preppy detail and monochrome print. Perfect for styling up or dressing down but either way it captures a little sass to the outfit.

Obviously this was my nails before lockdown but how cute are they for the winter season? Adding darker and neutral tones blend beautifully together and pair well with the winter looks.

I also wanted to share how stunning this beautiful decor inspiration is with you all as it's been my inspiration since redecorating my own house but also a massive shout out to my dearest friend Helen as her Beauty Salon/Home is super stunning.... Make sure to follow Helen's Brow beauty accout on Instagram ... @thebrowclinicwinchester she is a miracle worker I swear! 

I will add a beauty/brow blog on very soon but for now please go and check her page out! 

I couldn't help but share one more "Winter" inspired look which of course has to be the leopard print... Now this certainly has been a print that's reoccurred every Winter season! For those of you who know me know that I have an obsession with the print and think it's just timeless! 

I have to say this jumper is super cosy for the weather we have currently but it's so soft and the print is so stylish even just for laying on the sofa with! 

Anyway, I hope this has come in handy especially with the colder days we have had recently! 

Take care and stay safe for now.

With Love,

xx

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Take A Trip To The Old Bell & Crown After Lockdown Part 2...

Guess who's back, back again!... 

Yes it's me again, don't get too excited. I haven't blogged for nearly six whole months and now you can't get rid of me! Poor you, I wish you all the luck in the world!

Well today, is a slightly different kind of blog but a blog that I have been wanting to do since the beginning of August! Not that long hey? 

What with Lockdown Part 2 underway, I think it's really important to share and support as many Local Businesses or Restaurants as possible etc. So that's exactly what I am about to do... 

Join me on a "TEASER TASTER TUESDAY" - as I share what I must have to say is my favourite Restaurant/Pub to go to with you... 

I must apologize in advance though, as even thinking of the food is making me incredibly hungry and imagining eating there right now, but obviously we can't so you'll just have to stare at the photos for the next month or so! 

 

A Warm Welcome To The Old Bell & Crown... 

Take a little look into their website, you won't be disappointed that's for sure... I will insert a link below so you can head straight over, The Old Bell & Crown!

I mean there's no way you can't be salivating right now after seeing the food surely not? I know I definitely am! 

I would definitely go as far as saying I would rate The Old Bell & Crown as a five star Restaurant not just based on the incredible Chef's who make scrummy food that certainly hits the spot. But I would go as far as saying it's definitely my favourite place to go for a Sunday Roast to as there's just no comparison for eating a Sunday Roast out when it comes to here.

My five star rating, isn't just based on the food it's based on the service and when it comes to this place the service is just impeccable and sometimes it seems hard to come by in this day and age. So thank you very much to the entire Team for being incredibly hardworking super efficient, friendly and very humorous! 

Not forgetting, the décor and warm feeling the Pub provides from the minute you enter the building. It definitely has a proper homely feel towards the pub which leaves customers wanting to return! The pub also has a fantastic pub garden which is superb for a Summer's Day and a pint or two in the garden with your friends and family. 

For those of you who are dog lovers like myself, you'll be super happy that they also allow dogs into the pub to which is a great additional factor.

From the bottom of my heart I truly recommend visiting this pub as you won't be left feeling disappointed and you'll thank me later. I know that this pub has also been awarded one of the best pubs to go in Hampshire which is truly incredible! Well done again guys, you deserve it! 

If you're anything like me you will head over to the website and TripAdvisor as I tend to do that before going anywhere these days but again you'll see I'm not the only one with this opinion. So get booking for when Boris lifts the restrictions.

As well take the time to think of the small and local businesses that will need your support during this difficult time.

Lots of love as always, 

xxxx 

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Superdrug Haul...

Welcome back everyone! 

Initially, I just wanted to wish you all a warm welcome back and thank you for sticking around and waiting patiently for my new and upcoming blogs. So it's been a while since the last blog, have you missed them like I've missed you? Thought as much, ha-ha!!😉

Before, I dive into "Lockdown Part 2" which is what everyone is now nicknaming the current lockdown. I thought it would be great to review a little shopping Haul at Superdrug like I used to do.

So join me in rewinding time and heading back to my Superdrug Haul's...

On another note, it was very interesting to see where people shop the most from a recent poll that I did on my Instagram and from the results it seemed to be Superdrug. 

I won't lie, I am a massive "Superdrug" fan and always have been since I was a teenager really and I guess since I've had the blog too. Not that, I'm not a fan of Boots it just always seemed that my Mum and Nan would shop there more than I would. It also helped that Superdrug had the "Zoella" and "Tanya Burr" range as I was actually obsessed with their Beauty ranges! 

I guess for those of you who have followed by blog from day 1, that might now explain why I did so many "Superdrug Haul's!"

Before, I waffle on and bore you for any longer than I already have let's dive straight into my Superdrug haul...

Well it's fair to say, the Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste and Powder have been a star buy of mine for many years. I won't lie, I must admit I become super forgetful when it comes to using the Charcoal Powder as on a workday I'm always rushing and forgetting later on in the week to use the powder at least twice a week. 

So as it's "Lockdown Part 2",  I really don't have an excuse to forget do I? No. no  not at all! However, I thought that it would be a great Beauty routine check to actually measure the results of the whitening toothpaste powder. 

Not forgetting to mention, the Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste... I have and will always remain obsessed and faithful 😉 to this toothpaste! If you're anything like me, I am quite fussy on what toothpaste I use as I'm a bit funny with some of the tastes that toothpastes can have... maybe that's just me! I tend to mix it up between the following three toothpastes; Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste, Macleans Fresh mint or bog standard Aqua Fresh. 

So with the above toothpaste, it isn't just the stunning colours and design of the packaging that makes me adore it! It's the fact it actually works and leaves your teeth gleaming white! I suggest giving it a trial, you and your teeth certainly won't regret it! As well, the taste is rather nice.

Bonus point too, is the fact the two items above are on offer currently in store and online! I think it comes to just under £6 for the both which is amazing! 

With being on the subject of toothpaste and toothpaste powder I saw this beauty and of course had to add it into the shopping basket. I've been on the search for a new electric toothbrush that is of course pink.

So here we are! I couldn't resist this star buy, when I saw it as it is under £20.00! Bargain right?! What I love about this brush as well is that it has two settings; the clean setting and the sensitive setting which both lasts for two minutes per time you brush your teeth which is an additional bonus for purchasing this brush.  

With "Lockdown Part 2" - it's essential to have your luxuries and to indulge yourself in the scents of different shower gels... I mean maybe that's just me but knowing I can mix the scents up, tends to relax and certainly refresh and relax my mind which is definitely what we need more so than ever right now.

Finding these beauties was certainly a bargain as they were only 69p! Most definitely an essential for your shopping baskets and they have several other choices!

I definitely tend to have a few favourite skin care brands and Simple is most definitely my go to! Not just down to the fact the design of the bottle is amazing! However, Simple facial wash tends to be the most nourishing and refreshing for my skin personally so to see this on offer was an instant big fat YES! 

With being in another Lockdown, it's really important to ensure you're taking care of yourself, your skin and your body. So taking extra measures by ensuring you have your own health and skin care routine is very important for your own health and wellbeing. I will eventually get round to sharing my essential steps to a healthy skin care routine with you all but essentially the above four items play a huge role in that. Not just during the current times, it's very vital to always look after your skin during this time of the year as during the Autumn/Winter seasons your skin tends to be a lot drier and receives less sunlight and causes potential chapped lips, blemishes and break outs! 

So personally I find, facial creams and moisturizer are essential items in your skin care routine in order to keep your skin healthy and glowy which is a definite positive for times like we are facing currently. 

Be good to the skin you have been given! If you look out for it, it will look out for you. 

Superdrug are also selling these stunning natural face cloths which I find really useful to help remove your make-up or to use through your facial skin care routines either or. Superdrug are selling them for a whopping bargain of; £1.50 or free when you purchase x3 items from the Beauty Section so get in there quick before you miss out!

It's been such good fun rewinding time and heading back to my original roots and writing a "Superdrug Haul". If anything it's made me want to begin reviewing Superdrug products monthly again for you all. I forgot how much I enjoyed sharing my Beauty products and monthly favourite items. 

Let me know in the comments below on how you feel regarding my "Superdrug Monthly Hauls" and if you think they should become a regular blog once again.

For now it's been fantastic to be back and I can't wait to share my new upcoming blogs with you.

Take care and be safe everyone.

Lots of love to you all,

xxxx

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