The Things I ♥ : June

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Today I wish to share the things I ♥ in this month with you. Now, I know loads of people do posts/videos on monthly favourites and it’s nothing new but I just really want to do my own. I love reading about other people’s favourites whether it’s about fashion, beauty, food etc., but mine is a combination of everything that I have enjoyed in this month. I also believe doing this will help me appreciate the little things that make me smile even more than I do usually.

So here are the May Things I ♥:

♥ Chanel Coco Mademoiselle EDP ♥

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle, this has been my go-to fragrance lately. I find the fragrance to be very feminine and subtle. My tummy becoming humongous, breaking out with spots for the first time, eating like a monster  all obviously due to the pregnancy (oh please allow me to blame it on that) has lately made me feel less attractive and appealing to my-self but this actually helps me feel beau-teeeeeeee-fuuuuuul. You can buy this HERE

♥ Lansinoh 56g ♥

Lansinoh. Wow, talk about having the Itchy Boob Syndrome! My dear breasts were itching & aching so much that I felt like cutting them off, until I started using this two three weeks ago. And oh my does it work? I felt a difference immediately and ever since I’ve been using it daily. I’ve been meaning to do a review on it but just haven’t come round to doing it, but will do soon. Buy it HERE for £10.20

♥ Liz Earl Cleanse & Polish ♥

Liz Earl Cleanse & Polish, now this product is amazing, I’ve been using it daily and it leaves my skin feeling fresh & smooth. And, the feeling doesn’t go away like some other products I’ve used in the past. It just makes want to go Ahhhhhhhhhhhh. I hope to do a full review in about two-three weeks so keep an eye-out. If you're interested in this fantastic product then head over HERE.

♥ Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer ♥

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer, I ♥ ♥ ♥ this stuff! It’s so far the best tinted moisturiser I’ve used. I’m not someone that uses foundation or likes the idea of using foundation daily but since I broke out (come read about it HERE), I’ve been really conscious of how my skin looks and I must say this product does the job in making me feel comfortable! It’s provides enough coverage to lightly conceal my spots and balance out my skin tone but still feels light like my average moisturiser. The best thing is the finished look being so smooth, balanced but still very natural and that’s how I like it. Priced at £33.00 RRP is quite dear but I think it’s worth every penny of the price. If you’re interested in buying the product click HERE.

♥ River Island Black Jelly Sandals ♥

River Island Black jelly Sandals, another life saver. When it comes to hot weather I just can’t wear shoes or boots. I have to wear sandals or my feet just feel uncomfortable. But, this year the soles of my feet have been very fussy when it came to changing over to sandals. My feet just wouldn’t stop aching and got very hot after 15 minutes of walking in any of the sandals I owned, which has never been a problem before. So, I thought the idea of soft but sturdy jelly sandals sounded like a solution and what a coinkidink! I found the perfect pair at River Island and they were only £12.00! A bargain if you ask me. There soft, comfortable and most importantly they keep my foot COOL! I haven’t done an in-depth review but plan to do so soon. (update: River Island don't sell these any more!!).

♥ River Island Black Messenger Bag ♥

River Island Black Messenger Bag. Well, what more can I say about this beauty then I already have in my review (click HERE if you would like to read it). This bag is a life saver as it allows me to carry my essential bits and bobs without feeling like my shoulders going to break! It’s small enough for it to not be in the way but still big enough to fit my necessities for on the go i.e. phone, purse, medication, book etc. Interested in the bag? Click HERE.

♥ Chips ♥

Chips, oh my lord, I’ve eat this nearly every day this month. CHIPS, slathered with ketchup and salt. Sometimes I eat it twice a day. You’re probably comparing me to the four-legged animal that goes OINK right now, aren’t you?  I don’t what’s wrong with me!!!

♥ Cupcakes ♥

Vanilla Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting. Now the amount of different cupcakes, I’ve baked and eaten this month has been more then I’ve eaten in the entire last six months. But, I must say my favourite has been the Vanilla cupcake with Buttercream Frosting. It’s just perfect, the right size, the right sweetness and just utterly scrumptious. Don’t believe me, try it for yourself! Click HERE for the recipe.

Plums, these little Gems have been an addition to my cravings this month. I don’t know what it is about plums I can sit down and go through a whole load of them. Best thing is that I don’t feel guilty after eating them, because there mostly water. Sorry No Picture, I run out of them while writing this post!

♥ Unripe Mango Salad ♥

Unripe Mango Salad, this is yummy and since I’ve been pregnant I’ve been eating it at least once a week. I only know south Asians that eat it but I’m sure it’s eaten in other cultures in different variations. What is it you may ask, well its’ grated unripe green mango, finely chopped green chilli & coriander, minced lightly dry-roasted garlic, and salt all mixed together until fully combined. The end product has a tangy, hot & sour but very refreshing taste.

So what have been the things you ♥ this month?

So that’s all for now lovelies, until next time,

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

If I Were... A Chocolate Bar

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So, this week my “If I Were…” is based on what I’m craving for right now! A bar of Chocolate. I don’t consider myself to be a chocoholic, I think of myself as more of a sweety person! But, every so often I do like my fair share of Sho-Kho-latt (My French Accent) and when I do I’m very fussy about what chocolate I want

So here it is:

If I were… A Chocolate Bar

I’d be a Toblerone.

:: Scrummy Toblerone Milk Chocolate Bar::

Description:

A smooth milk chocolate bar with Honey & Almond Nougat.

Reasons for my choice:

I’m not usually a fan of milk chocolate; I prefer my solid 70%/80% Cocoa! But for some reason a bar of the milk Toblerone is pure bliss for me. I don’t eat it often but I have moments when I actually crave for it. It’s utterly sensational, the honey, almond, milk chocolate just creates a pool of yumminess in my mouth!

So, now tell me what Chocolate Bar are you?

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

One Stiff Leg & Several Cupcakes

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How are you today and what have you been doing? I haven’t been too well since this time yesterday. Really feeling being pregnant now. I wasn’t able to sleep last night due to a restless leg that was stiff all night long and my little sprog didn't stop kicking untill 8 in the morning! The whole day today I’ve just been feeling really weak. Not a happy pregnant day today. So, what do you do when you're pregnant, feeling unwell and/or just in need of some comfort? I EAT! Therefore, I thought I’ll share one of my most favourite comfort recipes with you!

:: My Scrumptious Vanilla Cupcakes with a Buttercream Frosting ::

Vanilla Cupcakes with a Buttercream Frosting

Serves: 12

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

1 tsp. Vanilla Essence

125g Butter, at room temperature

175g Caster Sugar

2 Medium Eggs (50g each), at room temperature

30g Plain Flour, sifted

95g Self-Rising Flour, sifted

95ml Milk

For the Buttercream Frosting:

175g Butter, at room temperature

2 tbsps. Milk

2 tsps. Vanilla Essence

350g Icing Sugar, sifted

Method:

1. Pre-heat the oven to 180c or Gas Mark 4 and line a 12 hole muffin tin with paper cases
2. Sift both flours into a bowl and set aside.
3. Using an electric beater (you could use a wooden spoon, just takes longer and more stamina!), beat the butter to soften then add the sugar and cream together until soft and fluffy.
4. Add one egg, half of the milk, vanilla essence and beat until fully incorporated.
5. Then add the remaining egg, milk and beat until smooth.
6. Using a metal spoon, quickly and gently fold the flour into the mix until smooth.
7. Either spoon or pipe the mixture into the muffin tin, only fill each case halfway as they will rise while cooking.
8. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes.
9. While the cupcakes bake, make the frosting by mixing the butter and icing sugar together using an electric mixer (be careful while adding the icing sugar, can be very messy), then add the milk, vanilla essence and mix until smooth. Cover and store in the fridge until ready to use.
10. When the cupcakes are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes (no more or they’ll gather moisture). Then turn out on a cooling rack and let them cool down completely.
11. Then there ready to eat, pipe the frosting on just before eating/serving using a piping bag and a star tip or whatever you prefer (I used a Wilton 1M).

I hope you enjoyed this post and if you do get round to using the recipe please do let me know on how they turn out!

Until next time,

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

Why a Home-education instead of Schooling?

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Today, I want to talk about Home-education. Since I found out I was pregnant with my first child I decided I was going to home-educate my child until he is old enough to attend a faith school (which is at the age of five) and now that I’m pregnant with the second I’m still very persistent on a Home-education.

Now why I want to talk about Home-education today is because over the last year, I have realised most people I’ve come across whether they’re professionals or other parents, have always been persistent on me sending my son to nursery and they do it in a way that leaves me thinking that they feel that I’m depriving my son of a normal upbringing by choosing to give him a Home-education! And, I don’t understand why a lot of people feel this way, feel that sending children to school is normal and giving them a home-education is not! I hope I’m not coming across as offended by people that think/feel that way because I’m not. I’m just very curious to why in this time we are so limited to the way we choose to think. If the option is there for a parent/guardian to home-educate their children then why do people choose to excuse it?

I feel that, the kind of education a child receives should be the parent’s preference, as long as the child’s interest is at best. Parents should be able to tell what is best for their child/children and should be able to make decisions for them without having to conform to society or the norms that are in their surroundings.

I’ve chosen to give my child a home-education for his early years instead of sending him to nursery because personally I feel that some of my faith and personal beliefs clash with what public schools/nurseries teach. Also, I believe I can do a better job at home as I will know how and what my child is learning, how he is progressing, his difficulties and strengths when it comes to learning.

My Wild Child just turned four a few days ago and even if I must say myself he has already learnt a lot more at home than what he would have learnt in nursery now. He knows his English and Arabic alphabets, numbers up to 25, can read and recognise more than a handful of words and a lot more etc. I don’t believe my son has SMART written all over his Genes, but I do believe that the home-education that I and his father are providing him with is the key to him picking up so fast. And, the thing I find amazing is we haven’t even implemented a routine yet. Everything he has learnt so far has been through general experiences such as reading at bedtime and naptime, reading signs and posters while outside, counting sweets, playing games etc. Now, I’m curious to see how things will change as it’s time to set a schedule!

Now, please tell me your views on a Home-education, what do you think of it and have you had any experience with Home-education?

So that’s all for today,

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks Review

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I’ve used Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks for over 4 months now and I must say I’m very disappointed with itL. I still have stretch marks from my first pregnancy and I wasn’t expecting the lotion to do my skin miracles but I did hope it would reduce the appearance of the stretch marks and the annoying itchiness, but it didn’t even though I applied it several times per day.

As for the texture of Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Massage lotion for Stretch Marks, I found it quite thick but I noticed that my skin absorbed it quite quickly and kept it very moisturised which was a pro for me, compared to the normal cocoa butter which takes a rigorous amount of rubbing. I normally love the smell of Cocoa Butter but I found this lotion didn’t smell like the other Cocoa Butter products I’ve smelt so that’s another thing about the lotion I didn’t like.

I think Palmers Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks has a very practical packaging. The pump allows single hand use and I found it to be less messy. I also found the price of £5.39 for a 250ml bottle to be quite reasonable (I bought mine from Boots)

To conclude, I’m quite upset this product didn’t work for me as I personally know a few lovelies it did work for. But, it could just my skin! On the whole it’s not a product I would recommend to anyone as it didn’t make a single difference to my stretch marks, but as usual that’s my personal preference.

Have you used the Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks and if you have what did you think of it?

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

23rd Week: FIRST-TIMES

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My 23^rd Week has been full of FIRST-TIMES. FIRST-TIMES in cooking things, FIRST-TIMES in making things and FIRST-TIMES in doing things etc. So, I thought rather than an in-depth summary of my week I’ll share my FIRST-TIMES with you:

• I started of the week by doing my FIRST "If I were..." meme. If you would like to find out more about it or join in click HERE.

• For my Wild child's fourth birthday which was on Tuesday (Come and read more about it HERE), I cooked and baked a few things for the FIRST-TIME. Such as Buffalo wings, Sugar Cookies and a Fondant covered Birthday Cake.

:: Sugar Cookies ::

:: Birthday Cake ::

• Also for his birthday, I got a little crafty and decided to set a theme to his little party. So for the FIRST-TIME, I made my very own birthday banner from scratch with a pretty blue tissue paper background and Cupcake toppers. It was very fun making them but I was left with stiff and painful fingers from all the cutting and sticking.

:: Our themed desserts table ::

• For the FIRST-TIME in my history, I actually looked forward to watching BBC's Question Time this week. I personally can't sit and watch the programme for the life of me. It's not because I have something against it or dislike it, it's just that I tend to get a banging headache every time I watch it. I think it's PSYCHOLOGICAL!!! But getting back to the point, this week I wanted to watch it because I wanted to see what was said about Cherie Blair's criticism on Yummy Mummies. It's a topic that touched me when I heard a discussion about it on LBC. However, due to my luck I didn't get to watch Question Time!

• This wasn't just my FIRST-TIME, but also my Wild child's. He rode a SCOOTER!!! As simple and common it is for a child to ride their bike or scooter for the FIRST-TIME, I believe it's a memory that most parents remember and cherish. It's become somewhat of a typical milestone in a child's life. I'm personally very intrigued by the fact that motherhood has taught me to appreciate the smaller things in life even more than i did prior to Motherhood.

• The GlossyBox this month has also introduced me to a few new names for the FIRST-TIME, such as BM Beauty, MeMeMe. Would you like to know more about my June GlossyBox? If so click HERE.

:: GlossyBox June 2012 ::

:: MeMeMe Catwalk Nail Gloss ::

:: BM Beauty Bronzer ::

• Lastly, for the FIRST-TIME I'm acknowledging how many FIRST-TIMES there have been.

Well, that's my FIRST-TIMES for this week. Even though there small things I feel very accomplished and somewhat proud. Big or Small it's good to try new things don't you agree?

As for my Unborn-Sprog, She/He is up to it's usual self. Kicking, Punching, Doing Aerobic etc. Pregnancy Itself hasn't been much different this week and I haven't had any appointments so there's not much to say here.

How has your week been and have you had any FIRST-TIMES this week or recently?

Until next time,

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

GlossyBox June 2012

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GlossyBox June 2012

So, I received my second GlossyBox on Monday and I’m still pretty impressed by what I have received. I haven’t been able to give everything a proper run but I still wanted to share my findings with you so here it is:

Vichy Dermablend Starter Kit 6 Samples (Fullsize 12g £19.00 The Garden): I’ve never used any of Vichy’s products before but I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Dermablend Range. So, when I saw this I was very pleased and excited. After I tried a little on a few of my blemishes, I was really blown away by the coverage it gave. I think this product will do wonders for people with blemished and other skin flaws. Also, the idea of supplying six samples is great as you get to really narrow down what shade is for you at the comfort of your own space.

GlossyBox Pro Beauty Brush: Now, I’m all up for a free make-up brush but I was very disappointed with productL. I found it very scratchy and not soft at all so I won’t be using mine. Maybe it’s just the one I received!

MeMeMe Sensous Nail Gloss 5ml (12ml £4.50 MeMeMe):  I adore the colour of this Nail Gloss but I’m not someone that normally applies nail polishes so this is another product I won’t be making much use of. Regardless, I thought I’ll give a test and check the quality of the product and I found that as much as the colour is lovely it did take me four coats for full coverage.

BM Summer Warmth Bronzer 1g (4g £8.00 BM Beauty): This is another product from a brand that I’ve never tried before but I’m very pleased with this bronzer pigment as I found it very soft and sheer without much glitter unlike most other bronzers I’ve come across. I can’t wait for the sun to come back out so I can wear this.

CAUDALIE ZESTE DE VIGNE Fragrance 10ml (50ml £26.00 CAUDALIE): I love zesty, citrusy scents so I was so glad when I got this. It’s so refreshing & invigorating. Feels like spraying sprinkle of summer on me and the size is just perfect for on the go.

My estimate is the total of this box is £29.00. I’m quite pleased with this box as I’ve been introduced to a few new brands and on the whole the products are very appealing. If you're interested in any of the products please click on the link in corresponding bracket and if you're interested in the GlossyBox then click HERE. So, now you tell me what did you think of your box this month?

Until tomorrow,

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

Afternoon Tea with A Birthday Update

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Having my Afternoon Tea with A slice of Birthday Cake

Hello my lovelies, I hope you all are well. As I’m having my afternoon tea with a slice of cake, I thought I’ll quickly share a few glimpses of my wild child’s fourth birthday which was on Tuesday.  If you have been reading my posts over the last week you would have realised that I’ve been PREETY occupied with his birthday plans, but due to falling ill on his birthday and everything becoming a bit too much for me to handle, I wasn’t able to carry out all my plans. L

But regardless, I thought I’ll share our little celebration that was wonderful. So, here are a few glimpses of the dessert table:

My Humble Desserts Table

Not your original "Red Velvet Cupcakes", as I had to substitute the Cream Cheese frosting for Butter Cream frosting

Our first attempt at making Sugar Cookies. I'm very proud of myself!

Our first Home-made fondant cake. We even made the star toppers. I know the big yellow star is a LITTLE dodgy but oh well.

Plain & Simple Vanilla Cupcakes with a Butter cream frosting

We tried to make as much as we could from scratch and when I say "we", I mean mean me and my wild child's father. I don't know what I would of done without him!

My wild child loved every little bit of the day from helping us make the birthday to eating a piece that seemed bigger than him! I'm just astonished by the fact that it's already been four years I've been a mother, Oh how time flies by!


Anyhoo, that's all for me today my lovelies. I hope you enjoy your day and stay well.

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

If I Were... A Romantic Movie

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(I know I said I was going to post this on Monday But I have been unfortunately very unwell and extremely busy so I'm putting it up today. I hope you don't mind)

So this is the first of my “If I were…” posts. (If you're not aware of what this is about then come and find out HERE) And, my first one is going to be based on the initial thought that sparked this whole idea, which was a Romantic Film! I’m so excited at this precise moment, it is UNBELIEVABLE!

So, here it goes (just copy and edit the following):

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If I were… A Romantic Movie

I’d be “The End of the Affair” Starring Ralph Fiennes, Julianne Moore and Stephen Rea.

Description:

The movie is based on The End of the Affair, a 1951 British novel by Graham Greene. It is set in London during and after the World War II. The main characters are Maurice Bendrix (Ralph Fiennes), Henry Miles (Stephen Rea) & Sarah Miles (Julianne Moore). The story is centred on Betrayal, Obsession, Hate & most importantly Love.

Reasons for my choice:

I chose “The End of the Affair” because the moment I watched it I was touched. I’m not normally the one to watch romances but this just captivated me. Even though it’s just a film it was very close to reality for me. I found it very sincere. And even though the film is based around a love affair and betrayal, I believe the illustration of love in the story is very true in regards to real-life. Everything about this film, the setting, and the characters was just perfect. Ahhh, if only I was there. And the music, my lord is it mesmerising, it literally made me want to fall in love with LOVE!

So, that’s me. Now it’s your turn…

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

An Introduction to "If I were..."

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Okay, so it’s one of those days where I’ve woken up wondering. Not anything in particular but just general and some dreamy, imaginary concepts such as If I Were…..

Now, I don’t know if me and my sisters were just out of the ordinary kids or if this is something every child did which is to wonder what you would be if you were a certain object! For instance what would you be if you were a fruit? We played this throughout our childhood and I still do it with myself from time to time but not so much as a game anymore. It just happens something will relate to me so much that I’d actually think to myself that “I’m that”.

So today I woke up doing exactly that and on that note it hit me, why don’t I start a meme on this and do it weekly. I’ll choose different objects and tell you why I’m that and in return you can tell me yours. I believe it will be fun and fascinating to let our imaginations run wild. As well as different from my/our usual adult life which normally doesn’t have the time to imagine or fantasize (oooh, sounds a bit sexual)! I don’t know if it will intrigue or inspire you but I hope it does and I hope you join me.

About “If I were”:

Who is it open to?

Anyone and Everyone

How often will I do it and how long will each one be open?

I hope to do it every week, starting on Wednesday ending on Tuesday, so you can join in anytime within the week.

What do you have to do?

Well, just respond to my post by writing your own post relating to the topic at hand and add your post url in a comment on my corresponding post.

Why should you join in?

I believe you should join in because this will be something different where you can get away from reality and into cuckoo land where anything goes! It will inspire and stimulate your lovely self while relaxing you. Most importantly it’s fun!!!

What are the rules?

Nope, no rules. You don’t have to do anything that you don’t wish to do. I want this to be purely fun and interesting not boring and brain-shattering!

I would appreciate it if you share it with others (that’s only if you enjoy it).

So that’s all my lovelies I will start this off tomorrow and I hope you join in. If you don’t I wish that you enjoy reading my mine.

So until tomorrow,

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

22nd Week: Utterly Hectic

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“Utterly Hectic” are the closest words to describe this week. From birthday planning, hospital appointments and visiting my mum everything has been chaotic. I’ve been running around (hypothetically) like a headless chicken. On top the wet and cold weather hasn’t helped being out and about as it just makes it more unsafe for me, slipping with stiff joints and all sorts.

I went to my mum’s last Saturday night and stayed till Tuesday. I had a wonderful time as usual. My lovely sisters made me laugh until my stomach hurt. I went out with my youngest sister on Sunday to eat at TinselTown, If you don’t know what or where TinselTown is click HERE. We firstly went to the wrong place which was my fault, then on our way to the correct place we got lost SEVERAL TIMES and by the time we got to the restaurant we were drenched by the rain! A very exhausting journey but still one of the main highlights of my week J

:: For Strater: Peri Peri Wings, BBQ Wings, Fries & Nachos with Salsa, Guacamole, Sour cream and  Jalapenos . I didn't eat eat all of that alone just in case you're thinking "that's a lot for one" ::

:: My Scrumptious Main: Mixed Grill for 1; 4oz Sirloin Steak, Spicy Chicken Fillet, Juicy Beef Sausage and 3 Lamb Chops served with fries and Salad ::

:: My Delightful Dessert: Banoffee Waffle; Banana slices with toffee sauce served with a generous scoop of Vanilla Ice-Cream :: 

On Tuesday, I decided to take control of my skin and my first spot break out which led me on venture to John Lewis in Westfield, Stratford. Where I invested in the famous LIZ EARL CLEANSE & POLISH STARTER KIT, come and read more about it HERE.

:: Liz Earl Cleanse & Polish Strater Kit ::

While, I was already at a shopping centre I decided to cause myself some more delightful damage by SHOPPING! Yay me. I bought my monster a birthday outfit and some birthday accessories. Then I and my monster had a fabulous lunch at Subways. Yummy, oh how they can take the boring concept of a sandwich and turn it into something so heavenly!

Later on Tuesday, I had an appointment with An Anaesthetist. Which was very interesting, you can read more about it HERE. And since then I have been totally occupied with planning this Birthday!

Honestly, it’s driving me nuts. My wild child’s fourth birthday is only 2 days away and I still haven’t managed to get everything done. I like to be in control and organised and even that hasn’t helped this time. But I have got most of it done. His present is here (phew, that’s one of the main things), his outfit is sorted, now I need to sort out the food shopping and bake the birthday boy's birthday cake!

My little sprog is doing perfecto. Pushing, kicking and doing all the acrobats that it needs to do to be a healthy little monkey. My bump hasn't got much bigger thank my lord but I've been really feeling the weight on my back while standing.

Well, that's my week, how was yours and what have been up to?

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

Oh no, I have a PREGNANCY BREAKOUT!

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Greetings *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

The title’s a little exaggerated, I’m not that bothered by it. Regardless, I have my first official spot breakout and that’s my first in my entire span of memory! I don’t have flawless, smooth like butter skin but I do believe that I have nice skin considering that I’ve never had any problems with it other than a few dry patches and the occasional spot. Usually, when these things happen I get happy (does that worry you?), the reason I get happy is because I feel more human than I do regularly. I always have women around me complaining about spots or their nails or something and I’m normally thinking how comes I don’t have that problem. It tends to worry me when it’s a room full of women and I’m the odd one out!

Now hold on, how do I always manage to do this? I always start of by thinking that I’m talking about the scenario on hand then to realise I’m telling another story! Getting back to the title, yes I have a spot break out or broke out or whatever you call it. And, I believe it’s due to this pregnancy. I know pregnancy cause a lot of changes in the skin blah blah blah so it’s reasonable for me to blame it on that. I initially thought my skin would clear up after a few weeks or once my hormones settle but no, instead my forehead looks more and more like a MINEFIELD day by day! So, I decided to take matters into my own hands rather than waiting for nature to take its course. After much triumph and strive I found this:

LIZ EARL CLEANSE & POLISH STARTER KIT

Actually, that’s a lie I didn’t triumph or strive. I just popped into John Lewis. My skin care routine usually involves water, steam baths for my face and moisturiser. Also, occasionally I use a mask. So, when it comes to buying something for my skin I’m quite hesitant and very careful, but this is one product that I’ve heard so many good reviews about that I’m actually convinced that IT DOES THE JOB!

I’m sure a lot of you already know about it and for those of you that don’t, it’s the LIZ EARL CLEANSE & POLISH STARTER KIT. The kit contains 100ml Hot Cloth Cleanser, two muslin clothes and is priced at £14.25. The instructions on using it is very very simple (one of the things I Like most about it), you just pump out the amount you require and apply it over your dry or wet face, then rinse the muslin cloth under hand hot water and then use the muslin cloth to wipe the cleanser off, VOILA! Another wonderful thing about this product is you don’t have to take your make-up off first, it does it for you, which is great for me. It saves me from the tedious job of first taking my make-up off and then washing my face.  I’ve only been using it for a few days and so far the MINEFIELD is still there but my skin feels absolutely wonderful, soft & fresh. But once I’ve used it for a while I do hope to do an in depth review about this thingymabob. If you’re interested in the product please click HERE to head over to the Liz Earl website where you can read more about this product or others in their range.

So, my lovelies how has your skin been during pregnancy, any drastic changes and what’s worked for you? Please share.

I’m off to cook dinner so until next time,

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

A Non-Traditional Breakfast while Birthday Planning

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My Non-Traditional Breakfast, I know it's not healthy but it couldn't be HELPED!

Yep, it’s my wild child’s fourth birthday this Tuesday and even though my plans are very very small they are still taking a lot of planning.

Initially, I had a planned a Treasure Hunt in our local park with a Picnic lunch to follow, but looking at the weather forecast lately I started having my doubts. So, I’ve decided to have an indoor hunt, then an indoor picnic. Now, you might ask where is all the planning needed when the idea is so simple. Well, you see I have a habit of complicating things. From what food I prepare to how I want the décor e, everything has to be perfect and to the best of my abilities. I just can’t get myself to settle for less or in this case “Simple & Easy”.

My wild child’s seems to just be concerned about his cake, which I’ve made into a challenge for myself. Instead of making my life easy and ordering a nice, pretty cake from our local bakery which is splendid, I have decided I’m going to attempt to make my very first fondant cake! I’m not sure if it’s easy or hard but I know it takes a little bit of skill and as much as I’m confident that I’ll do fine, it just doesn’t seem sensible to attempt this on my son’s birthday. But, try getting my lovely conscious to accept that.

Therefore, the next five days are going to be full of Planning, stress and frustration which obviously to me is the meaning of FUN for this pregnant woman!(I really am starting to believe that I belong in a Looney Bin) I will keep you updated with my Loony plans hoping they will intrigue you, and hopefully I shall share my results with you on Tuesday.

In the meantime, why don’t you share what you have been doing the last few days and how have you been?

So long for now Lovelies (I actually don’t know what that means)

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

My Appointment with The Anaesthetist

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Oh, I’m very sorry for being absent the last few days, I actually feel like I’ve neglected my blog! Oh will it ever forgive me? So, where have I been? I’ve been at my mother’s for a few days, shopping and other wanders. But, today I’m going to take about my visit to the Anaesthetist yesterday.

I’m not exactly sure why my midwife referred me to see an anaesthetist, but I guessed it was because she assumed I might need/want more pain relief during Labour. So, it can help me cope with Labour pains as well as the existing pain issues I have due to the Joint Hypermobility Syndrome.

Now for the actual appointment, it was interesting as the consultant didn’t actually think I would need an epidural as I’m already use to coping with chronic pain, but the option of an epidural is going to be there.

What got me thinking is how much of a difference does an epidural make? I’m already accustomed to Tramadol and the option of morphine is available to me if I feel that I need it, so will an epidural actually work better than Morphine? These are all question’s I’m asking due to my curiosity not because I’m planning taking any pain relief during labour. I’m actually hoping for a natural birth like the first time.

Have you experience the use of an epidural or how did you find it? Please share your experience with me.

That’s all for now my lovelies,

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

21st Week: Barmy Pregnancy Cravings

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Hey my lovelies, it’s been a few days since my last post and I haven’t been able to post anything because I have not been too wellL. So, now that I’m wide awake at 4.23 am I thought I will make use of this precious opportunity to update you!(Don’t ask why I’m awake because I don’t know)

So Wow, this week has gone by so fast, like lightning, you blink and IT’S GONE. Swissh! Enough of my dramatics (I did drama in secondary school you know!). I have a strong hunch that the weeks to come are going to fly by until the last few weeks and then it’s going to feel like the clock has STOPPED.

This week has been one of my not so GREAT weeks; firstly I’ve had several blackouts (nearly every day) which have resulted in agonising pain in a lot of my body parts, sprained my ankle twice, iron level has decreased dramatically so I’M REALLY REALLY TIRED A LOT OF THE TIME, so if all of that hasn’t been frustrating enough MY CRAVINGS HAVE BEEN DRIVING ME BARMY!

Pregnancy Cravings should be a highlight of being pregnant as its interesting and sometimes very peculiar, well that’s what I think. But for me, my cravings have become menacing. You might think that’s too much of a strong word, but believe me when I say you’re wrong! Because they are menacing, I feel like each thing that I crave for is actually alive walking around me and plotting on how to drive me mad! It’s not what I crave for that’s a problem, it’s how often and how strong the craving is. There’s been at least one different thing I craved for each day this week and at the time I crave, I get frustrated, upset and even angry at myself if I don’t have it within my reach. I don’t know if this is common amongst pregnant women but I surely can’t get use to it. I feel like a child that can’t be told NO and what makes it too odd for me is that I am the one who is saying NO. Does this make sense to you? If it does, please enlighten me because I’m befuddled.

This week, I’ve craved for:

• Satsumas
• Unripe Green Mango mixed with green chilies, coriander, garlic & salt.
• Nectarines
• Plums
• Chips with loads and loads of ketchup & salt
• BBQ Lamb Chops
• Freshly Baked Sponge Cake, more for smelling than eating
• Subways Turkey Ham Sandwich with melted cheese, onion, cucumber, lettuce, sweet corn, gherkins, jalapenos, black olives and Chipotle sauce! (I want this NOW, NOW, NOW)

Now, I think that’s enough moaning for now. Let’s talk about my little sprog! My baby is doing fine, kicking all the way to china and back. Let me tell you now, it’s going to be a FIGHTER! Little boo said hello to its Abby (word for “dad” in Arabic and no, I’m not Arabic) for the first time yesterday and not just once but three hefty KICKS. So, that was quite a momentous moment.

How have you been feeling this week and are you having weird cravings that you would like to share with me?

I’m off to catch my 40 winks so until next time my lovelies,

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•* Ta-ra *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

Being Pregnant Meme

:-•:*"*:•.-:¦:-•*Greetings *•-:¦:-•:*'''*:•-:

Okay, being the curious busy bee that I am, I’ve just spentthe last few hours working out what a “meme” is. Are you thinking why did ittake me so long? Well, I didn’t just want to know how one worked or how to joinone but instead I wanted to know how I could start my own! And I might havejumped on the bandwagon a bit too early but were there’s no harm, there’s nofowl. Right?

Being pregnant and being the second time, it’s made me very curiousabout other pregnant women. How they cope in similar situations, if certainsymptoms/feelings are the same etc. So, clearly my very first meme is going tobe about being pregnant!

So please, copy, paste & edit the following on in your blog:

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I have been invited by Trinket from Trinket of Treasure topartake in this meme started by the curious Trinket of Treasure, who has basedthis meme on “Being Pregnant”

THE RULES:

• As I am a very curious busy body, please answer thefollowing questions in depth.YOU’RE NOT ALLOWED TO LEAVE ANY DETAILS OUT (only joking). But,please do write as much as you want, keeping in mind the joys of life are inthe finer details. X

• Invite three or more women and link them to your blog post. As I don’t know many mothers or pregnant women, I’d appreciateit if you could invite as many mothers/ expecting women you know to participate. But please remember you don't have to be invited to take part. THE MORE THE MERRIER! x

• Leave a comment about what you think of this meme and a link to your blogpost HERE x

• For lovelies that have been pregnant more than once, answerthe question in regards to your first pregnancy. x

THE QUESTIONS:

What was your firstreaction when you found out that you were/are pregnant and why do you feel youreacted in that way?

I was ecstatic but in shock at the same time. I remember thehair on the back of my neck rising and I had Goosebumps all over my body. I wasdelighted because some part of me wanted a baby and I was scared becauseanother part of me knew the circumstances weren’t ideal to bring a baby intothe world. The emotions collided inside me and all these questions knocked onmy conscience, all at once that left me flabbergasted for the next few days.Also, what didn’t help was my son’s father was there while I took the test andhe didn’t actually let me see the results (why is a long story). So, I guess apart of me did believe that I might not be pregnant until he truly convinced methat I was.

What major changesdid/does being pregnant bring to your life?

The major changes being pregnant bought to my life, were thechanges in my health & acknowledgment of responsibilities.

Pregnancy triggered of some illnesses that have dominatedover my life since I was pregnant. Joint Hypermobility Syndrome and PostTraumatic Stress Disorder! Initially, I didn’t take this change in my health ontoo well. Just couldn’t understand how I went from being fit and healthy topractically being disabled! And on top it made my pregnancy on a whole verytraumatic so I just couldn’t accept it.

As soon as I found out I was pregnant, I started tounderstand that I would have to change my ways in terms of being responsibleand the thought was daunting! It wasn’t that I didn’t want to change but that Iwas scared of not being able to. Looking after myself was easy, didn’t havemany needs or necessities, lived life by the day and didn’t have many plans forthe future nor did I look back at my past. But all of that had to be changedand I knew it was going to be hard, probably the hardest thing I’ve had to doso far. However, it wasn’t hard. In hindsight, it’s interesting how everythingjust slowly fell into place without me having to work to make change.

What did/do you likeor enjoy about being pregnant the most?

SECONDS & THIRDS! I loved the fact that I could eat asmuch as I wanted or how often I liked without someone looking at me like I’m apig. And, I know this doesn't apply to all pregnant women or even the majoritybut there are those of us who do have an abnormal escalation in appetite andhonestly I’m not exaggeration. I ate nearly every hour even if it wasn’t as bigas normal meal portion it was still a lot.

What did /do youdislike the most about being pregnant?

Oh my lord, did I hate morning sickness like I could of killedit if it was a person! From the eighth week of my pregnancy to all the way intolabour I vomited. If I smelt something strong, ate something/anything, felthot, sometimes even when I just took a deep breath I puked. Above all the painand trauma I suffered, Morning Sickness had to be the worst. It just made myday hell, couldn’t travel unless it was by foot without spontaneouslyprojecting sick everywhere.

What are your overallthoughts and feelings on being pregnant?

Pregnancy for me was a significant experience. I had my upsand downs while I was pregnant but the fact that being pregnant is anexperience that can’t be replicated makes it very special for me. It’s a timein my life which is very unique and has thought me a lot. I personally believeit’s a gift to us women that we should all be very proud of x

Now it’s your turn to share x

I Invite:

• Love From Mummy
• Him. me & three
• ChelseaMamma
• ***Sprinkle Of Glitter***
• Knackered Housewife
• Family Four Fun
• Yummy Mummy Flabby Tummy
• Knees Up Mother Brown
• The Mini Mes and Me
• Baby Steps...
• FIESTY TAPAS
• The Mummy Blogger
• Kate Takes 5
• Wendy's World