I've written many a post about my time at University over here on Becc4, which, let's be real, is hardly surprising since it's been a very big, and incredible, chunk of my life. Alas, here we are, I'm a graduate now! Yep, that's right, this gal has a whole ass degree - a BSc in Psychology with first class honours, I'll have you know...
Anyway, for today's post, I thought we'd have a bit of a chat about; my plans for the future, feeling a bit lost and my thoughts on finally leaving education.
My friends keep joking that they don't think I've finished with studying, and that I'll be back with my head in the textbooks before too long. We shall have to watch this space on that one and just see what happens. Dr Martin does have a nice ring to it though...
Anyway, for today's post, I thought we'd have a bit of a chat about; my plans for the future, feeling a bit lost and my thoughts on finally leaving education.
So, what are my plans for after university?
Now, I know you've probably all clicked onto this post hoping to read about all my concrete plans for the future, alas, I cannot offer you such. I mean, I have some short term plans but other than that, who knows what I'll be doing with the rest of my life. But, let's not worry, I am only 21 after all.
Whilst I was on holiday, my dissertation supervisor emailed me to say that an internship in the faculty had been created. A few emails later and I'd received the confirmation that the job was mine, wahey. It's a 3 month, paid, internship based in the psychology faculty at my university. So, yes, I have graduated, but no, it is not the end of my time there. I'm currently not sure how often I'll need to be in Southampton, but it's nice to know I have many a reason to make a return. I've been given an official staff email address and am being sent a staff ID, goodbye student ID!
As many of you will know, my dissertation was on homelessness, and this is the sector I want to take my career in. I'm also currently doing some work on a document that's going to be sent to the government, focussed on homelessness, so I'm sure between that and my internship that I'm going to have lots to be getting on with over the next few months!
We've also recently got a puppy !!! Aaaaah! Can you believe it ?! After begging my parents for years, I can't believe this day has finally come! I'm so so happy, he is the cutest thing EVER and already has his own Instagram account which you can follow here. I have volunteered to be lead dog obedience trainer and so I think I'm going to have my work cut out over the next few months!
Whilst I was on holiday, my dissertation supervisor emailed me to say that an internship in the faculty had been created. A few emails later and I'd received the confirmation that the job was mine, wahey. It's a 3 month, paid, internship based in the psychology faculty at my university. So, yes, I have graduated, but no, it is not the end of my time there. I'm currently not sure how often I'll need to be in Southampton, but it's nice to know I have many a reason to make a return. I've been given an official staff email address and am being sent a staff ID, goodbye student ID!
As many of you will know, my dissertation was on homelessness, and this is the sector I want to take my career in. I'm also currently doing some work on a document that's going to be sent to the government, focussed on homelessness, so I'm sure between that and my internship that I'm going to have lots to be getting on with over the next few months!
We've also recently got a puppy !!! Aaaaah! Can you believe it ?! After begging my parents for years, I can't believe this day has finally come! I'm so so happy, he is the cutest thing EVER and already has his own Instagram account which you can follow here. I have volunteered to be lead dog obedience trainer and so I think I'm going to have my work cut out over the next few months!
How does it feel to have left university?
By no means was I dreading leaving university, but I certainly wasn't excited to be leaving my student life behind. I loved my university experience. I made some incredible friends and memories, had all sorts of crazy experiences and also came away with a first. University just really seemed to click for me. However, amidst those final exams, it's fair to say I was counting down the seconds until my freedom...
When I look back at my university experience, the people are what absolutely made it and it's them that has made saying goodbye to this chapter oh so difficult. I mean, yes, there's facetime to catch up over and Instagram to see what people are up to but it's not quite the same. One thing I'm finding really weird is having to text my (ex) housemates?! Over the three years we lived together we only really texted each other when one of us needed to pick up some more milk in Lidl because there was no point discussing our days because we'd have all evening to be doing that. Alas, now that we don't live together, and don't see each other every evening, it's a whole other story!
On feeling lost after finishing university
I wouldn't say I feel hopelessly lost, but I do feel a little loss nonetheless. Studying has been my life for the last few (16) years and now I'm not really sure what to be doing with myself. Yes, I do have some plans in place and things to be getting on with, but the post-uni confusion really is real. What do I do with my life now? What is my purpose? What am I striving towards next? I mean, I worked hard on my GCSE's to get into sixth form, worked hard on my A-Levels to get into uni, worked really hard throughout uni and got a first. But, now what?My friends keep joking that they don't think I've finished with studying, and that I'll be back with my head in the textbooks before too long. We shall have to watch this space on that one and just see what happens. Dr Martin does have a nice ring to it though...
I've written many a post about my time at University over here on Becc4, which, let's be real, is hardly surprising since it's been a very big, and incredible, chunk of my life. Alas, here we are, I'm a graduate now! Yep, that's right, this gal has a whole ass degree - a BSc in Psychology with first class honours, I'll have you know...
Anyway, for today's post, I thought we'd have a bit of a chat about; my plans for the future, feeling a bit lost and my thoughts on finally leaving education.
My friends keep joking that they don't think I've finished with studying, and that I'll be back with my head in the textbooks before too long. We shall have to watch this space on that one and just see what happens. Dr Martin does have a nice ring to it though...
Anyway, for today's post, I thought we'd have a bit of a chat about; my plans for the future, feeling a bit lost and my thoughts on finally leaving education.
So, what are my plans for after university?
Now, I know you've probably all clicked onto this post hoping to read about all my concrete plans for the future, alas, I cannot offer you such. I mean, I have some short term plans but other than that, who knows what I'll be doing with the rest of my life. But, let's not worry, I am only 21 after all.
Whilst I was on holiday, my dissertation supervisor emailed me to say that an internship in the faculty had been created. A few emails later and I'd received the confirmation that the job was mine, wahey. It's a 3 month, paid, internship based in the psychology faculty at my university. So, yes, I have graduated, but no, it is not the end of my time there. I'm currently not sure how often I'll need to be in Southampton, but it's nice to know I have many a reason to make a return. I've been given an official staff email address and am being sent a staff ID, goodbye student ID!
As many of you will know, my dissertation was on homelessness, and this is the sector I want to take my career in. I'm also currently doing some work on a document that's going to be sent to the government, focussed on homelessness, so I'm sure between that and my internship that I'm going to have lots to be getting on with over the next few months!
We've also recently got a puppy !!! Aaaaah! Can you believe it ?! After begging my parents for years, I can't believe this day has finally come! I'm so so happy, he is the cutest thing EVER and already has his own Instagram account which you can follow here. I have volunteered to be lead dog obedience trainer and so I think I'm going to have my work cut out over the next few months!
Whilst I was on holiday, my dissertation supervisor emailed me to say that an internship in the faculty had been created. A few emails later and I'd received the confirmation that the job was mine, wahey. It's a 3 month, paid, internship based in the psychology faculty at my university. So, yes, I have graduated, but no, it is not the end of my time there. I'm currently not sure how often I'll need to be in Southampton, but it's nice to know I have many a reason to make a return. I've been given an official staff email address and am being sent a staff ID, goodbye student ID!
As many of you will know, my dissertation was on homelessness, and this is the sector I want to take my career in. I'm also currently doing some work on a document that's going to be sent to the government, focussed on homelessness, so I'm sure between that and my internship that I'm going to have lots to be getting on with over the next few months!
We've also recently got a puppy !!! Aaaaah! Can you believe it ?! After begging my parents for years, I can't believe this day has finally come! I'm so so happy, he is the cutest thing EVER and already has his own Instagram account which you can follow here. I have volunteered to be lead dog obedience trainer and so I think I'm going to have my work cut out over the next few months!
How does it feel to have left university?
By no means was I dreading leaving university, but I certainly wasn't excited to be leaving my student life behind. I loved my university experience. I made some incredible friends and memories, had all sorts of crazy experiences and also came away with a first. University just really seemed to click for me. However, amidst those final exams, it's fair to say I was counting down the seconds until my freedom...
When I look back at my university experience, the people are what absolutely made it and it's them that has made saying goodbye to this chapter oh so difficult. I mean, yes, there's facetime to catch up over and Instagram to see what people are up to but it's not quite the same. One thing I'm finding really weird is having to text my (ex) housemates?! Over the three years we lived together we only really texted each other when one of us needed to pick up some more milk in Lidl because there was no point discussing our days because we'd have all evening to be doing that. Alas, now that we don't live together, and don't see each other every evening, it's a whole other story!
On feeling lost after finishing university
I wouldn't say I feel hopelessly lost, but I do feel a little loss nonetheless. Studying has been my life for the last few (16) years and now I'm not really sure what to be doing with myself. Yes, I do have some plans in place and things to be getting on with, but the post-uni confusion really is real. What do I do with my life now? What is my purpose? What am I striving towards next? I mean, I worked hard on my GCSE's to get into sixth form, worked hard on my A-Levels to get into uni, worked really hard throughout uni and got a first. But, now what?My friends keep joking that they don't think I've finished with studying, and that I'll be back with my head in the textbooks before too long. We shall have to watch this space on that one and just see what happens. Dr Martin does have a nice ring to it though...
~ contains gifted products ~
Ooooh, what have we here then? Is that some new Pixi products I spy... Say hello to the new Vitamin C Collection. The postman handed me this beautifully themed parcel this morning, containing five of their new products and I just couldn't wait to share them with you!
The Vitamin C range is designed with skin brightening in mind, and includes a cleanser, a toner, a serum, a moisturiser and a leave-on mask. Vitamin C is known to boost the skin's luminosity as well as promote healthy collagen production. The products retail from £10 to £26 and are all available online at pixibeauty.co.uk.
Vitamin C Tonic* - £10.00
A brightening toner made with vitamin C and ferulic acid. This product is alcohol free and suitable for all skin types to be used after cleansing.
A leave-on brightening mask that contains encapsulated vitamins as well as ferulic acid and probiotics. This product should be used as the last step in a skincare routine, as it's left just to absorb into the skin.
A cleansing water that contains orange flower water, stable vitamin C, ferulic acid and probiotics. This can be applied with either cotton pads or your hands and does not need to be rinsed off.
A moisturizer that also contains vitamin C, ferulic acid and probiotics and hence is also designed to brighten the skin. This is advertised as being suitable for all skin types.
A serum that also contains vitamin C, ferulic acid and probiotics, for use after cleansing and toning. This is advertised as being proven to reduce the effects of sun damage and free radicals.
~ contains gifted products ~
Ooooh, what have we here then? Is that some new Pixi products I spy... Say hello to the new Vitamin C Collection. The postman handed me this beautifully themed parcel this morning, containing five of their new products and I just couldn't wait to share them with you!
The Vitamin C range is designed with skin brightening in mind, and includes a cleanser, a toner, a serum, a moisturiser and a leave-on mask. Vitamin C is known to boost the skin's luminosity as well as promote healthy collagen production. The products retail from £10 to £26 and are all available online at pixibeauty.co.uk.
Vitamin C Tonic* - £10.00
A brightening toner made with vitamin C and ferulic acid. This product is alcohol free and suitable for all skin types to be used after cleansing.
A leave-on brightening mask that contains encapsulated vitamins as well as ferulic acid and probiotics. This product should be used as the last step in a skincare routine, as it's left just to absorb into the skin.
A cleansing water that contains orange flower water, stable vitamin C, ferulic acid and probiotics. This can be applied with either cotton pads or your hands and does not need to be rinsed off.
A moisturizer that also contains vitamin C, ferulic acid and probiotics and hence is also designed to brighten the skin. This is advertised as being suitable for all skin types.
A serum that also contains vitamin C, ferulic acid and probiotics, for use after cleansing and toning. This is advertised as being proven to reduce the effects of sun damage and free radicals.
You know the drill by now, I go for a cream tea, then I come back here and let you know exactly what I thought of it, reviewing it in terms of five different criteria. If you haven't read any of these posts before you can click here and go back and read them from the start, but if you have, let's just get started...
The Greenwood Tree Cafe, Lyndhurst
Taste
The two scones (yep, two!), came out warm and were huge in size. I had the fruit scones, as always, and they were really nice. Of all of the scones in this series, these weren't my favourite, they were a little dry. That being said, the taste was good.
Clotted Cream Quantity
For two huge scones, I definitely don't think there was enough scone for a good scone to jam to cream ratio... I mean, maybe I'm just a bit of a clotted cream fiend but I defo could have done with a bit more!
Price
For the two scones, the jam, the cream and a pot of tea, The Greenwood Tree Cafe in Lyndhurst charges £6.25, which, I don't think is too bad at alllll!
Aesthetic
Now, I wouldn't say this was the most 'Instagrammable' cafe, but I loved all of the little details. There was bunting in the window and lots of little pot plants scattered around.
Location
Being in Lyndhurst, this cafe really is in a good spot. We had a little wander around before heading in for our cream tea, and on a nice sunny afternoon, is there a better way to spend a few hours? Maybe I'm biased, but I really like the New Forest, and being a two minute walk from Bolton's Bench (a classic New Forest spot) it really is in a good location.
Where should I visit next?
The Greenwood Tree Cafe, Lyndhurst - Review
7.7.19 • cream tea, finding the best cream tea on the south coast, food, new forest
You know the drill by now, I go for a cream tea, then I come back here and let you know exactly what I thought of it, reviewing it in terms of five different criteria. If you haven't read any of these posts before you can click here and go back and read them from the start, but if you have, let's just get started...
The Greenwood Tree Cafe, Lyndhurst
Taste
The two scones (yep, two!), came out warm and were huge in size. I had the fruit scones, as always, and they were really nice. Of all of the scones in this series, these weren't my favourite, they were a little dry. That being said, the taste was good.
Clotted Cream Quantity
For two huge scones, I definitely don't think there was enough scone for a good scone to jam to cream ratio... I mean, maybe I'm just a bit of a clotted cream fiend but I defo could have done with a bit more!
Price
For the two scones, the jam, the cream and a pot of tea, The Greenwood Tree Cafe in Lyndhurst charges £6.25, which, I don't think is too bad at alllll!
Aesthetic
Now, I wouldn't say this was the most 'Instagrammable' cafe, but I loved all of the little details. There was bunting in the window and lots of little pot plants scattered around.
Location
Being in Lyndhurst, this cafe really is in a good spot. We had a little wander around before heading in for our cream tea, and on a nice sunny afternoon, is there a better way to spend a few hours? Maybe I'm biased, but I really like the New Forest, and being a two minute walk from Bolton's Bench (a classic New Forest spot) it really is in a good location.
Where should I visit next?
~ contains gifted items ~
As you're reading this, I go on holiday this week... Whaaaaat? The last few months have totally flown by and I cannot wait to get on that plane and be jetting off for some sunshine. This year, my family and I are off to Mauritius for a couple of weeks. We're staying in a villa, and a lot of our plans revolve around chilling on the beach, swimming in the pool and eating a lotta good food. I actually tried Mauritian food for the first time a few weeks ago, and absolutely LOVED IT, so it's fair to say I'm excited to stuff my face over the next couple of weeks!
Surprisingly, I haven't actually bought all that many new summer clothing pieces this year but I was recently gifted a few bits that I'm absolutely loving. I own a lot of clothes and certainly don't need anymore, but, there's nothing like rocking a new outfit on holiday, right? So, let's just dive right in, shall we? Let me show you the goods...
First up, we have this black and white crochet dress*. I absolutely love this, and I can't wait to wear this both on holiday - as a beach coverup - and at festivals later on in the summer. Being made of crochet, it is see-through, but with a black bikini/cycling shorts on underneath, it looks fab. I have mine in a size small and it fits me perfectly. (I'm a size 8 and 5'7 for reference)
What is a summer haul without a pair of denim shorts? These are the lightwashed distressed denim shorts*, and I have mine in a size 8. I actually trimmed a lot of the distressing on these as it was a bit much for me, and I much prefer how they look now! They're high-waisted, a tight fit but not toooo short - there's no cheek on show.
Last summer I bought the perfect pair of denim shorts but they actually ended up getting pinched whilst I was in a hostel in Vietnam, and to this day, I'm still not over it. But, these will do as a replacement - I'm definitely a fan.
At the risk of sounding like one of those wanky gap yah travellers, the shirt in these photos I bought in a market in Vietnam and the bag is from Bali, so I have no links for those I'm afraid. That being said, bags like these are everywhere at the moment, including Primark, so you definitely don't need a return flight to Denpasar to pick one up!
Ahhh the t-shirt dress, an item I'm never sure looks quite right on me, but I wear regardless. I'm a pretty lanky human with fairly skinny limbs, so it's fair to say that anything too oversized and boxy doesn't do all that much for me. But, when I spotted this pink striped t-shirt dress* I knew I needed it in my life. I have this in an S/M which is an 8/10 and I certainly wouldn't want it any bigger. Dresses like these are so easy to chuck on with a pair of trainers and a denim jacket, so they definitely get a thumbs up from me. And this pink colour? Delicious.
The humble graphic tee: a staple in everyone's wardrobe. I love this white love yaself tee*, it's so simple and pairs really nicely with any sort of bottoms... Floral midi skirt? Yes. Funky patterned shorts (these are Primark FYI)? Definitely. A pair of mom jeans? A look. I actually sized up in this and opted for a M/L because everyone knows that a tight white tee is never a good idea in the summer... Helloooo, sweat patches.
And on that delicious note, I think we'll leave this post here! If I pick up any more summer pieces I'll definitely post another of these hauls, if you're interested! Also, do excuse the desolate bedroom... I'm currently in the process of moving out of my uni room so it's defo looking a bit sorry for itself!
Have you picked up any new summer pieces recently?
~ contains gifted items ~
As you're reading this, I go on holiday this week... Whaaaaat? The last few months have totally flown by and I cannot wait to get on that plane and be jetting off for some sunshine. This year, my family and I are off to Mauritius for a couple of weeks. We're staying in a villa, and a lot of our plans revolve around chilling on the beach, swimming in the pool and eating a lotta good food. I actually tried Mauritian food for the first time a few weeks ago, and absolutely LOVED IT, so it's fair to say I'm excited to stuff my face over the next couple of weeks!
Surprisingly, I haven't actually bought all that many new summer clothing pieces this year but I was recently gifted a few bits that I'm absolutely loving. I own a lot of clothes and certainly don't need anymore, but, there's nothing like rocking a new outfit on holiday, right? So, let's just dive right in, shall we? Let me show you the goods...
First up, we have this black and white crochet dress*. I absolutely love this, and I can't wait to wear this both on holiday - as a beach coverup - and at festivals later on in the summer. Being made of crochet, it is see-through, but with a black bikini/cycling shorts on underneath, it looks fab. I have mine in a size small and it fits me perfectly. (I'm a size 8 and 5'7 for reference)
What is a summer haul without a pair of denim shorts? These are the lightwashed distressed denim shorts*, and I have mine in a size 8. I actually trimmed a lot of the distressing on these as it was a bit much for me, and I much prefer how they look now! They're high-waisted, a tight fit but not toooo short - there's no cheek on show.
Last summer I bought the perfect pair of denim shorts but they actually ended up getting pinched whilst I was in a hostel in Vietnam, and to this day, I'm still not over it. But, these will do as a replacement - I'm definitely a fan.
At the risk of sounding like one of those wanky gap yah travellers, the shirt in these photos I bought in a market in Vietnam and the bag is from Bali, so I have no links for those I'm afraid. That being said, bags like these are everywhere at the moment, including Primark, so you definitely don't need a return flight to Denpasar to pick one up!
Ahhh the t-shirt dress, an item I'm never sure looks quite right on me, but I wear regardless. I'm a pretty lanky human with fairly skinny limbs, so it's fair to say that anything too oversized and boxy doesn't do all that much for me. But, when I spotted this pink striped t-shirt dress* I knew I needed it in my life. I have this in an S/M which is an 8/10 and I certainly wouldn't want it any bigger. Dresses like these are so easy to chuck on with a pair of trainers and a denim jacket, so they definitely get a thumbs up from me. And this pink colour? Delicious.
The humble graphic tee: a staple in everyone's wardrobe. I love this white love yaself tee*, it's so simple and pairs really nicely with any sort of bottoms... Floral midi skirt? Yes. Funky patterned shorts (these are Primark FYI)? Definitely. A pair of mom jeans? A look. I actually sized up in this and opted for a M/L because everyone knows that a tight white tee is never a good idea in the summer... Helloooo, sweat patches.
And on that delicious note, I think we'll leave this post here! If I pick up any more summer pieces I'll definitely post another of these hauls, if you're interested! Also, do excuse the desolate bedroom... I'm currently in the process of moving out of my uni room so it's defo looking a bit sorry for itself!
Have you picked up any new summer pieces recently?
I'd like to take this moment to thank my sister for a) introducing me to this haircare range and b) giving these products to me. What a legend. Do I have to mark these as AD #gifted? Is my sister an influencer now? What is going on with the world?
Anyway, I've never been particularly loyal to any haircare brand or product and normally tend to opt for whatever is on the end of the aisle, on offer in Sains. Buy one get one free? I'll take it. A quid? Even better.
I was recently facetiming my sister and she was using the No Haircut Cream, which I'd never seen before, so I asked her approximately 8 questions about what it was... Fast forward a few days and I had the full trio to try for myself. These products are from L'Oreal Elvive's Dream Lengths range, and lemme tell you, they are fab. The whole idea behind the range is to protect and restore damaged hair and split ends, and I am HERE for it.
My hair always seems to be a bit damaged. Yet, I don't blowdry it nor straighten it, and it isn't particularly long either. I do go for semi-regular haircuts and by 'semi-regular' I mean about twice a year. (Maybe I'm answering my own questions here...) But yeah, my hair is a bit dry and damaged and so I figured these products could possibly be everything my hair was crying out for.
Dream Lengths Restoring Shampoo
All of the products smell fab - they have a subtle fruity scent, which, honestly, doesn't last all that long in the hair, but it's nice nonetheless. The shampoo lathers really well and it certainly leaves my hair feeling clean without it feeling stripped of allllll the moisture in the world ever. I'm not sure how much more there is to say about a shampoo? It cleans my hair and it smells nice, I'm happy!
Dream Lengths Detangling Conditioner
Of the three, this product is by far my favourite. When it says it's a detangling conditioner, it really isn't fibbing. I know my hair isn't particularly long, and I'm sure people with longer hair find it waaay more of an issue than I do, but my hair does find a way to get itself pretty knotty. But, this product seems to be an absolute saviour. Whenever I use this, my hair always feels so buttery smooth and the hairbrush absolutely glides through it, no matter what state it was in before I washed it.
Dream Lengths No Haircut Cream
I love the idea behind this product - why had I not heard of it/bought it sooner?! It's a leave-in product you can apply to wet or dry hair, that claims to 'help seal spilt-ends and reduce breakage'. Now, I'm not sure if I've been using this long enough to fully report on those claims, but I have been using it every time I've washed my hair since I was given it, and so far so good. My hair looks healthier than it ever has, which is surprising considering it's taken a bit of a beating the last few weeks with all the styling it's received for the balls I've been attending!
Overall, I really am loving these products and would recommend them to anyone with a drier hair type who is on the lookout for some new products to try. (I have a feeling that these might be a little too heavy duty for anyone with really fine hair, so maybe pass on these if that's you!) The shampoo and conditioner retail at £4.99 each, and the haircut cream at £5.99, but Boots are selling the entire bundle (including a hair mask I haven't tried) for £12... So, if you're interested in trying the range then that might be the way to go...
What is your favourite shampoo/conditioner combo?
I'd like to take this moment to thank my sister for a) introducing me to this haircare range and b) giving these products to me. What a legend. Do I have to mark these as AD #gifted? Is my sister an influencer now? What is going on with the world?
Anyway, I've never been particularly loyal to any haircare brand or product and normally tend to opt for whatever is on the end of the aisle, on offer in Sains. Buy one get one free? I'll take it. A quid? Even better.
I was recently facetiming my sister and she was using the No Haircut Cream, which I'd never seen before, so I asked her approximately 8 questions about what it was... Fast forward a few days and I had the full trio to try for myself. These products are from L'Oreal Elvive's Dream Lengths range, and lemme tell you, they are fab. The whole idea behind the range is to protect and restore damaged hair and split ends, and I am HERE for it.
My hair always seems to be a bit damaged. Yet, I don't blowdry it nor straighten it, and it isn't particularly long either. I do go for semi-regular haircuts and by 'semi-regular' I mean about twice a year. (Maybe I'm answering my own questions here...) But yeah, my hair is a bit dry and damaged and so I figured these products could possibly be everything my hair was crying out for.
Dream Lengths Restoring Shampoo
All of the products smell fab - they have a subtle fruity scent, which, honestly, doesn't last all that long in the hair, but it's nice nonetheless. The shampoo lathers really well and it certainly leaves my hair feeling clean without it feeling stripped of allllll the moisture in the world ever. I'm not sure how much more there is to say about a shampoo? It cleans my hair and it smells nice, I'm happy!
Dream Lengths Detangling Conditioner
Of the three, this product is by far my favourite. When it says it's a detangling conditioner, it really isn't fibbing. I know my hair isn't particularly long, and I'm sure people with longer hair find it waaay more of an issue than I do, but my hair does find a way to get itself pretty knotty. But, this product seems to be an absolute saviour. Whenever I use this, my hair always feels so buttery smooth and the hairbrush absolutely glides through it, no matter what state it was in before I washed it.
Dream Lengths No Haircut Cream
I love the idea behind this product - why had I not heard of it/bought it sooner?! It's a leave-in product you can apply to wet or dry hair, that claims to 'help seal spilt-ends and reduce breakage'. Now, I'm not sure if I've been using this long enough to fully report on those claims, but I have been using it every time I've washed my hair since I was given it, and so far so good. My hair looks healthier than it ever has, which is surprising considering it's taken a bit of a beating the last few weeks with all the styling it's received for the balls I've been attending!
Overall, I really am loving these products and would recommend them to anyone with a drier hair type who is on the lookout for some new products to try. (I have a feeling that these might be a little too heavy duty for anyone with really fine hair, so maybe pass on these if that's you!) The shampoo and conditioner retail at £4.99 each, and the haircut cream at £5.99, but Boots are selling the entire bundle (including a hair mask I haven't tried) for £12... So, if you're interested in trying the range then that might be the way to go...
What is your favourite shampoo/conditioner combo?
It's 2019, we all know how important an SPF is. I mean, if you don't, read this, then come back to this post. I've been using an SPF every day on my face for several years now, and, over this time, I've tried a fair few different ones. I always like to opt for a factor 50 because, if you couldn't already tell, I'm fairly pasty and I burn pretty easily. Plus, the more protection the better, right?
I recently bought The Body Shop's Skin Defence after seeing Caroline Hirons mention it on This Morning a few weeks ago. Which, if you haven't already seen, the clips are all on YouTube so I highly recommend you catch up on them now! That woman really does know it all when it comes to skincare, and I genuinely fully trust what she says...
Anyway, back to the product. It retails at £17 for the 40ml or £21 for the 60ml, so, it definitely isn't cheap! But, compared to skin cancer and wrinkles, I don't think it's too much of a sacrifice... Thankfully, when I bought it they were offering a 40% discount online, so definitely keep your eyes peeled for any future discount codes, they really do make a difference.
This product has a really really light texture, and unlike other facial SPFs I've used, it's not sticky at alllll. I've used this every day for several weeks now and I'm yet to find anything I dislike about it. It sinks in really quickly, doesn't interfere with my makeup and also doesn't irritate my skin in the slightest. I have also spent quite a few full days in the sun and can confirm that it does its job, I haven't shown any signs of sunburn at all!
The Skin Defence contains both UVA and UVB protection, which is very important, as well as a couple of ingredients known for brightening the skin. So, it really is a good all-rounder.
Unfortunately, this product is currently sold out online, but I figured I'd write this post as a little PSA in case anyone is after a new SPF for the summer, because this really is the best one I've ever used...
Do you have a favourite SPF?
The Best SPF I've Bought: The Body Shop's Skin Defence
19.6.19 • beauty, review, skincare, SPF, summer
It's 2019, we all know how important an SPF is. I mean, if you don't, read this, then come back to this post. I've been using an SPF every day on my face for several years now, and, over this time, I've tried a fair few different ones. I always like to opt for a factor 50 because, if you couldn't already tell, I'm fairly pasty and I burn pretty easily. Plus, the more protection the better, right?
I recently bought The Body Shop's Skin Defence after seeing Caroline Hirons mention it on This Morning a few weeks ago. Which, if you haven't already seen, the clips are all on YouTube so I highly recommend you catch up on them now! That woman really does know it all when it comes to skincare, and I genuinely fully trust what she says...
Anyway, back to the product. It retails at £17 for the 40ml or £21 for the 60ml, so, it definitely isn't cheap! But, compared to skin cancer and wrinkles, I don't think it's too much of a sacrifice... Thankfully, when I bought it they were offering a 40% discount online, so definitely keep your eyes peeled for any future discount codes, they really do make a difference.
This product has a really really light texture, and unlike other facial SPFs I've used, it's not sticky at alllll. I've used this every day for several weeks now and I'm yet to find anything I dislike about it. It sinks in really quickly, doesn't interfere with my makeup and also doesn't irritate my skin in the slightest. I have also spent quite a few full days in the sun and can confirm that it does its job, I haven't shown any signs of sunburn at all!
The Skin Defence contains both UVA and UVB protection, which is very important, as well as a couple of ingredients known for brightening the skin. So, it really is a good all-rounder.
Unfortunately, this product is currently sold out online, but I figured I'd write this post as a little PSA in case anyone is after a new SPF for the summer, because this really is the best one I've ever used...
Do you have a favourite SPF?
Back in April, I made the decision to try and cut down my dairy consumption. I spoke a little bit about it, at the time, in this blog post, and, fast forward two months and here we are. I'm still limiting the amount of dairy I consume and I haven't bought cow's milk nor a block of cheese in over two months - wahey! (As someone who used to eat a lotttt of cheese on her bolognese, this is quite the accomplishment!) So, I thought it was about time I updated y'all on how I've been getting on...
Why did I cut out dairy?
Now, I mentioned in the aforementioned blog post the reasons for cutting out dairy, but I figured I'd recap them here, just in case you missed that post...Firstly, there is a lot of discussion online surrounding the possible link between dairy and acne. I've mentioned it a million times now, but, my skin is not great. I've had acne for yeaaaars now, and I figured that cutting out dairy could potentially be the answer to all my prayers. What did I have to lose?
Well, update: I haven't noticed a massive change in my skin but I definitely feel better generally. I am nowhere near as bloated as I once was and I just feel so much better. I mean, it could all be a bit of a placebo, but so far, so good, and I'm definitely going to stick to it.
The second reason behind this diet change was, of course, environment related. I'm sure you've all heard it before and you don't need me to ramble on about it... It's 2019 and we really are out here trying to turn things around.
So, how have I been finding the dairy alternatives?
Almond Milk - is a big fat no from me. I really didn't like how it tasted in tea, nor in porridge or cereal. I mean, I'm not a massive fan of almonds, so maybe that has something to do with it... Almond milk was the first dairy-free product I tried but thankfully it didn't put me off completely! I personally wouldn't recommend it at alllll, but it's all about personal preference, yanno?
Soya Milk - is what I currently have on my cereal. I buy the unsweetened cartons from Aldi, they're less than a pound, and I like how they taste. I mean, they don't taste like a lot, but they're certainly not offensive! I've used this to make both pancakes and toad in the hole, and I've liked the results... It's not quite the same as cow's milk, but it's still good. As for in tea, it's also alright. It's not particularly creamy but if no other options are available it's more than good enough.
Oat Milk - the holy grail. I initially tried an oat milk from Asda's free from range, and that was fab! It was amazing in porridge and pancakes, and also made a fab cup of tea. Unfortunately, we don't have an Asda particularly locally, so I haven't had this one again since. I have, however, discovered the absolute joy that is Oatly Barista Oat Milk. In a tea, it's fab! It's really quite thick and creamy, two things that the other milk alternatives I've tried haven't been. If I was out and could choose any alternative to have in my tea, it would 100% be this one!
I am not being particularly strict with other dairy products, so I am still eating cheese and clotted cream if I'm out and about. This gal isn't about to turn down a cream tea, is she? But, one other thing I have tried are the Alpro Velvet Vanilla Soya Desserts. They look like custard, they taste like custard, and so get two big thumbs up from me.
Now that I've written this post, it has dawned on me how few dairy-free alternatives I've actually tried... My bad. I'll be sure to test a few more out and then I'll come back with an update! The next thing on my list is yoghurt - I tweeted a few weeks ago looking for yoghurt recommendations, so I'm going to start working my way through those - any recommendations?
Which is your favourite milk alternative?
Back in April, I made the decision to try and cut down my dairy consumption. I spoke a little bit about it, at the time, in this blog post, and, fast forward two months and here we are. I'm still limiting the amount of dairy I consume and I haven't bought cow's milk nor a block of cheese in over two months - wahey! (As someone who used to eat a lotttt of cheese on her bolognese, this is quite the accomplishment!) So, I thought it was about time I updated y'all on how I've been getting on...
Why did I cut out dairy?
Now, I mentioned in the aforementioned blog post the reasons for cutting out dairy, but I figured I'd recap them here, just in case you missed that post...Firstly, there is a lot of discussion online surrounding the possible link between dairy and acne. I've mentioned it a million times now, but, my skin is not great. I've had acne for yeaaaars now, and I figured that cutting out dairy could potentially be the answer to all my prayers. What did I have to lose?
Well, update: I haven't noticed a massive change in my skin but I definitely feel better generally. I am nowhere near as bloated as I once was and I just feel so much better. I mean, it could all be a bit of a placebo, but so far, so good, and I'm definitely going to stick to it.
The second reason behind this diet change was, of course, environment related. I'm sure you've all heard it before and you don't need me to ramble on about it... It's 2019 and we really are out here trying to turn things around.
So, how have I been finding the dairy alternatives?
Almond Milk - is a big fat no from me. I really didn't like how it tasted in tea, nor in porridge or cereal. I mean, I'm not a massive fan of almonds, so maybe that has something to do with it... Almond milk was the first dairy-free product I tried but thankfully it didn't put me off completely! I personally wouldn't recommend it at alllll, but it's all about personal preference, yanno?
Soya Milk - is what I currently have on my cereal. I buy the unsweetened cartons from Aldi, they're less than a pound, and I like how they taste. I mean, they don't taste like a lot, but they're certainly not offensive! I've used this to make both pancakes and toad in the hole, and I've liked the results... It's not quite the same as cow's milk, but it's still good. As for in tea, it's also alright. It's not particularly creamy but if no other options are available it's more than good enough.
Oat Milk - the holy grail. I initially tried an oat milk from Asda's free from range, and that was fab! It was amazing in porridge and pancakes, and also made a fab cup of tea. Unfortunately, we don't have an Asda particularly locally, so I haven't had this one again since. I have, however, discovered the absolute joy that is Oatly Barista Oat Milk. In a tea, it's fab! It's really quite thick and creamy, two things that the other milk alternatives I've tried haven't been. If I was out and could choose any alternative to have in my tea, it would 100% be this one!
I am not being particularly strict with other dairy products, so I am still eating cheese and clotted cream if I'm out and about. This gal isn't about to turn down a cream tea, is she? But, one other thing I have tried are the Alpro Velvet Vanilla Soya Desserts. They look like custard, they taste like custard, and so get two big thumbs up from me.
Now that I've written this post, it has dawned on me how few dairy-free alternatives I've actually tried... My bad. I'll be sure to test a few more out and then I'll come back with an update! The next thing on my list is yoghurt - I tweeted a few weeks ago looking for yoghurt recommendations, so I'm going to start working my way through those - any recommendations?
Which is your favourite milk alternative?
As many of you are probably aware, I've recently finished my final year at university meaning that my graduation is right around the corner. It's the moment that all of our studies thus far have been leading up to, so, it's fair to say that it's a pretty big day. So, of course, it's only natural to want to find the dress. The one you feel fab in, the one you love the look of, the one.
So, for today's post I thought I'd help a sister out and compile a lookbook full of dresses I've spotted whilst browsing online, in the hopes that it could help even one of you out. I've tried to include a few different colours and styles, and not just dresses I'd usually pick for myself...
I've not gone for anything too floaty or long as I figured it might all look a bit much under the robes (only my personal opinion!) They all retail for less than £40 and the sites they're from all offer next day delivery meaning that no matter the time limit, you should be alright! Some of the links are affiliate links - this doesn't impact your purchase at alllll, I'll only receive a small amount of money back in return!
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1 2 3 4
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Which is your favourite of these dresses?
As many of you are probably aware, I've recently finished my final year at university meaning that my graduation is right around the corner. It's the moment that all of our studies thus far have been leading up to, so, it's fair to say that it's a pretty big day. So, of course, it's only natural to want to find the dress. The one you feel fab in, the one you love the look of, the one.
So, for today's post I thought I'd help a sister out and compile a lookbook full of dresses I've spotted whilst browsing online, in the hopes that it could help even one of you out. I've tried to include a few different colours and styles, and not just dresses I'd usually pick for myself...
I've not gone for anything too floaty or long as I figured it might all look a bit much under the robes (only my personal opinion!) They all retail for less than £40 and the sites they're from all offer next day delivery meaning that no matter the time limit, you should be alright! Some of the links are affiliate links - this doesn't impact your purchase at alllll, I'll only receive a small amount of money back in return!
1 2 3 4
1 2 3 4
1 2 3 4
1 2 3 4 5
Which is your favourite of these dresses?
I'm still very proud that I came up with this series - is there anything more on-brand for me?? Other than maybe a roast dinner version... Now, that, could be an idea! Anyway, in our hungover state from the weekend, Toria and I headed to yet another tearoom for a cream tea and we were not disappointed. We had quite a hefty scroll of Google and eventually found Evelyn's Tea House in Southampton.
In case you're new to this series, I'll just give you a quick rundown. Essentially, I am on a mission to find the best cream tea on the south coast. I've had a fair few scones in my lifetime - which you can see from this series alone - and so I like to consider myself a bit of a connoisseur by this point. I've come up with five judging criteria (that I think are very important) and am using them all to rate each tearoom I visit. Each cream tea then gets a post of its own - just like this one, meaning that if you're ever down here in the south, you can choose the best place to go for any scone cravings.
The staff at Evelyn's Tea House in Southampton were all really friendly and so helpful. Our server explained how Evelyn's is a family run business with as many things as possible being home-made on site. They also stock over 100 different loose leaf teas, complete with their own menu, but I am embarrassed to say that I did just go for a breakfast tea... Oops. I also opted for a slice of lemon and blueberry cake, as well as my cream tea, and that was delicious!
Evelyn's Tea House, Southampton
Taste
Another tearoom with a good scone... It came out warm and dusted with icing sugar - it's the little things, huh? As like any good scone, it was crispy on the outside but really soft on the inside. Also, it was huuuuge, so that's a big thumbs up from me.
Clotted Cream Quantity
Now, for such a big scone. it's fair to say that neither Toria or I thought there was nearly enough clotted cream! So much so, that we actually ended up ordering more, boooo. We hate a stingy cream portion!
Price
Of all of the cream teas in this series, this one is on the slightly dearer end of the spectrum at £6.50 (which, I know isn't a lot, but it's all relative!) With the cream tea, you can, however, have a whole variety of different drinks. Not only one of the 100 different teas, but also a few different coffees as well as milkshakes.
Aesthetic
All of the food is served on pretty, floral vintage china which I think is a bit of a necessity for a cream tea! I loved all of the jars of teas on the wall and the flower garlands draped around the room.
Location
Whilst this tea room is in Southampton, it's not in the city centre, so not somewhere you could walk over to after spending a small fortune in West Quay! In case you were wondering, it's a 12-minute drive from West Quay (my point of reference for anything in Southampton) but there isn't an awful lot to do in the immediate local area. But, if you're Southampton based like I am, it's very convenient to get to of an afternoon!
Where should I visit next?
Evelyn's Tea House, Southampton - Review
31.5.19 • cream tea, finding the best cream tea on the south coast, food, lifestyle, southampton
I'm still very proud that I came up with this series - is there anything more on-brand for me?? Other than maybe a roast dinner version... Now, that, could be an idea! Anyway, in our hungover state from the weekend, Toria and I headed to yet another tearoom for a cream tea and we were not disappointed. We had quite a hefty scroll of Google and eventually found Evelyn's Tea House in Southampton.
In case you're new to this series, I'll just give you a quick rundown. Essentially, I am on a mission to find the best cream tea on the south coast. I've had a fair few scones in my lifetime - which you can see from this series alone - and so I like to consider myself a bit of a connoisseur by this point. I've come up with five judging criteria (that I think are very important) and am using them all to rate each tearoom I visit. Each cream tea then gets a post of its own - just like this one, meaning that if you're ever down here in the south, you can choose the best place to go for any scone cravings.
The staff at Evelyn's Tea House in Southampton were all really friendly and so helpful. Our server explained how Evelyn's is a family run business with as many things as possible being home-made on site. They also stock over 100 different loose leaf teas, complete with their own menu, but I am embarrassed to say that I did just go for a breakfast tea... Oops. I also opted for a slice of lemon and blueberry cake, as well as my cream tea, and that was delicious!
Evelyn's Tea House, Southampton
Taste
Another tearoom with a good scone... It came out warm and dusted with icing sugar - it's the little things, huh? As like any good scone, it was crispy on the outside but really soft on the inside. Also, it was huuuuge, so that's a big thumbs up from me.
Clotted Cream Quantity
Now, for such a big scone. it's fair to say that neither Toria or I thought there was nearly enough clotted cream! So much so, that we actually ended up ordering more, boooo. We hate a stingy cream portion!
Price
Of all of the cream teas in this series, this one is on the slightly dearer end of the spectrum at £6.50 (which, I know isn't a lot, but it's all relative!) With the cream tea, you can, however, have a whole variety of different drinks. Not only one of the 100 different teas, but also a few different coffees as well as milkshakes.
Aesthetic
All of the food is served on pretty, floral vintage china which I think is a bit of a necessity for a cream tea! I loved all of the jars of teas on the wall and the flower garlands draped around the room.
Location
Whilst this tea room is in Southampton, it's not in the city centre, so not somewhere you could walk over to after spending a small fortune in West Quay! In case you were wondering, it's a 12-minute drive from West Quay (my point of reference for anything in Southampton) but there isn't an awful lot to do in the immediate local area. But, if you're Southampton based like I am, it's very convenient to get to of an afternoon!
Where should I visit next?
Hellooooo, long time no chat. As I'm sure most of you are aware, I'm currently in my last few weeks of university and it's fair to say things are just a little bit busy. Of late, pretty much all of my days have been spent diss writing and preparing for exams, fun fun fun. But anyway, I'm alive and well, I just don't have too much time to be creating content over here on my blog. I have, however, been posting daily on Instagram, so if you don't follow me over there - that's where you're most likely to hear about what I'm up to!
Yesterday I headed down to So:Cake in Southampton, which recently opened in town, to try one of their cream teas in exchange for one of these posts. Whilst I was gifted the experience, my thoughts very much are my own - this gal knows a good scone from a bad one.
So, a little about So:Cake. It recently opened in Southampton city center, and, by recent, I mean a few weeks kind of recent. The decor is all really colourful and bright, with pink walls galore - perfect for that Instagram aesthetic.
As some of you might already know, I'm currently trying to cut out dairy (clotted cream is one of the things I'm giving a free pass, FYI) but I was very pleased to spot that So:Cake in Southampton had Oatly Barista on offer - my current milk substitute of choice, so that's a big thumbs up from me. Anyway, enough rambling... What did I think of the cream tea?
So:Cake, Southampton
Taste
The scone was lovely - it was warm when it came out, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Now, not to steal the scone's thunder but the raspberry jam that came with it was amazing - we all commented on just how good it was!
Clotted Cream Quantity
As always, this is the most important criteria for me and I wasn't disappointed. There was more than enough cream for the two halves of the scone so there are absolutely no complaints here.
Price
At £4.95, for a scone, a pot of tea, cream and jam - I think the price is very reasonable. So:Cake also offer an Afternoon Tea option which is £12.95 and includes the above as well as sandwiches and a slice of cake... Toria had one of these and it looked amazing, if only I liked sandwiches, huh?
Aesthetic
So, aesthetic is definitely something that has been properly considered in this tea room. All of the scones come out on cute cake stands, the teacups are all floral bone china numbers, there's a pink and white stripey wall, a huge painting of Mary Berry and lots of other quirky details... Perfect for the gram, hey?
Location
Now, in a lot of these previous posts I have been harping on about how Southampton needs a nice tearoom in the middle of the city... Well, here we are. Located just a bit further on from ASDA this really is a convenient place to get to. Hooray for delish cream teas within walking distance of West Quay!
So, overall, I'm very impressed by So:Cake in Southampton... I love the aesthetic, the food all looks amazing and the scones were fab. Oh, and the staff were really friendly, too! It's fair to say this place gets a big thumbs up from me!
So:Cake, Southampton - Review
1.5.19 • cream tea, finding the best cream tea on the south coast, food, lifestyle, southampton
Hellooooo, long time no chat. As I'm sure most of you are aware, I'm currently in my last few weeks of university and it's fair to say things are just a little bit busy. Of late, pretty much all of my days have been spent diss writing and preparing for exams, fun fun fun. But anyway, I'm alive and well, I just don't have too much time to be creating content over here on my blog. I have, however, been posting daily on Instagram, so if you don't follow me over there - that's where you're most likely to hear about what I'm up to!
Yesterday I headed down to So:Cake in Southampton, which recently opened in town, to try one of their cream teas in exchange for one of these posts. Whilst I was gifted the experience, my thoughts very much are my own - this gal knows a good scone from a bad one.
So, a little about So:Cake. It recently opened in Southampton city center, and, by recent, I mean a few weeks kind of recent. The decor is all really colourful and bright, with pink walls galore - perfect for that Instagram aesthetic.
As some of you might already know, I'm currently trying to cut out dairy (clotted cream is one of the things I'm giving a free pass, FYI) but I was very pleased to spot that So:Cake in Southampton had Oatly Barista on offer - my current milk substitute of choice, so that's a big thumbs up from me. Anyway, enough rambling... What did I think of the cream tea?
So:Cake, Southampton
Taste
The scone was lovely - it was warm when it came out, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Now, not to steal the scone's thunder but the raspberry jam that came with it was amazing - we all commented on just how good it was!
Clotted Cream Quantity
As always, this is the most important criteria for me and I wasn't disappointed. There was more than enough cream for the two halves of the scone so there are absolutely no complaints here.
Price
At £4.95, for a scone, a pot of tea, cream and jam - I think the price is very reasonable. So:Cake also offer an Afternoon Tea option which is £12.95 and includes the above as well as sandwiches and a slice of cake... Toria had one of these and it looked amazing, if only I liked sandwiches, huh?
Aesthetic
So, aesthetic is definitely something that has been properly considered in this tea room. All of the scones come out on cute cake stands, the teacups are all floral bone china numbers, there's a pink and white stripey wall, a huge painting of Mary Berry and lots of other quirky details... Perfect for the gram, hey?
Location
Now, in a lot of these previous posts I have been harping on about how Southampton needs a nice tearoom in the middle of the city... Well, here we are. Located just a bit further on from ASDA this really is a convenient place to get to. Hooray for delish cream teas within walking distance of West Quay!
So, overall, I'm very impressed by So:Cake in Southampton... I love the aesthetic, the food all looks amazing and the scones were fab. Oh, and the staff were really friendly, too! It's fair to say this place gets a big thumbs up from me!
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