TV Show Recommendations #5

Is it just me or have there been so many good shows this year already? We're only at the end of April, but I feel 2017 is the year that procrastination will be at an all time high, courtesy of Netflix. With that being said, here is my favourite show of the month.

13 Reasons Why

Yep, I just had to write about potentially the most controversial show on Netlflix - but bare with me here. I'd seen people raving about it, so I had to see what all the fuss was about, right? I binge watched the show within three days, remember the whole procrastination thing I mentioned earlier? Well yeah, I found it that addicting. So I knew I had to write about it.

The story focuses on Hannah Baker, a high school teenager who ultimately makes the decision to end her life. Before her death, she records several cassette tapes which are then sent to various people in her school, one of them being fellow classmate Clay Jensen. Hannah's recording tells him that there are thirteen reasons why she decided to take her own life and that he is one of them. The show looks at hard hitting topics such as bullying, self harm, sexual assault as well as suicide and it doesn't hold back. Some have suggested that it glamourises the issues and whilst I completely understand why, I feel that sugar coating the problems isn't an effective way of bringing them to light. 

The characters individual stories are an essential part of the show. Though their portrayal is mostly biased through Hannah's opinions on them, they show how their actions have such an impact on her physically and mentally.

I personally would have preferred if the show delved deeper into dealing with depression, which could have created more validation for Hannah's tapes. Some do think her actions are self centered, but the things that happen to her are very extreme and the mental illness itself can be very selfish with regards to taking into consideration friends and loved ones.

Whilst I did really enjoy 13 Reasons Why, if you suffer from mental health problems as a result of some of the issues that are addressed in the show, I would take this into consideration before taking the time out to watch it. The scenes involving sexual abuse and suicide are very graphic and could be very harmful to some people watching. The last episode showing her death really did have a big affect on me and I was left thinking about it for days after. I can honestly say a scene in a film or TV show which has had such an impact on me. Hopefully others who watched the show feel the same way, and I'd like to think the mass online conversation will help rid of some of the stigma around depression and suicide.

But whether you love it or hate it, you've got to admit it's had a huge online impact and social media has been rife with opinions. 

If you have been struggling with suicidal thoughts or just need someone to talk to, Samaritans are here to help.

Victoria

My 2016 Highlights

Well, it wasn't that bad for me anyway..

Yes I know a LOT of bad things happened in 2016, it started with the death of David Bowie, and sluegh of celebrity deaths ensuing. Then there was all the politics shenanigans in the UK & US and well, that's it really isn't it? It also ended with me breaking my phone on NYE, but HEY-HO.

Let's not focus on the negatives, here are my 2016 highlights.

Completed my apprenticeship

At the beginning of 2016, I finished my year long apprenticeship in digital marketing. When I left school, I decided that university just wasn't for me. Getting drunk 24/7 and handing in the occasional essay? I know, I must be mad. But the reality was that I just wanted to do something where I could learn whilst earning money. I did indeed learn a lot whilst on the course and more importantly I decided that whilst working in an administrative environment has its ups and downs, I'm not fully ready to commit to that particular vocation. Whilst I'm no longer in that field of work, knowing I have a qualification I can fall back on is really rewarding. 

Started Youtube

2016 was also the year which I started something that I'd wanted to get into for years, YouTube. Having spent much of my teenage years watching the likes of Zoella, Shane Dawson and Jenna Marbles - their content really inspired me to finally start posting. My videos are VERY different to my blog posts, with my blog being almost a diary of sorts and my YouTube channel is there to.. make a really poor attempt at being funny/relatable in front of a camera. I don't really promote it because I just do it for fun, but seeing people comment and leave their opinions (good or bad I may add) is really nice to see. I'd probably be at a loss without social media at this point which may sound really sad, but it's a extremely fun hobby I can't see myself giving up any time soon.

Amsterdam

Later on in June I had a mini trip with a few friends to Holland. This was the first time I'd been away without my parents and I'm nearly 21.. yep. Since we weren't there long we tried to cram as much in as we could in those few days. We visited a Science Museum  which was essentially for kids and teens but we enjoyed it none the less. We also visited other places which weren't exactly PG, but no I don't mean THAT district. The weather was also beautiful, so our trip was nicely completed with a boat trip around the city. Though based in the UK, one of my bucket list goals is to visit pretty much most of Europe. So I'm really happy I can tick this one off my list and hopefully visit again in the not so distant future.

Dick N Dom

This is a bit of a random one and again is probably just highlighting the fact I'm quite a horrendously sad individual. Unlike my uni friends who get drunk at any point in the week, I can only really go out on weekends and make the most of the club events which aren't catered for students on a Monday night. With that being said, I had the opportunity to go see two of my childhood heroes live. I'd just like to reiterate.. the high correlation between me and EXTREMELY SAD individuals. No I'm not talking about the Chuckle Brothers who I would see make a club appearance in a heart beat, I'm talking about Dick N Dom. After a friend saw that they were DJing at Pryzm in Leeds, I knew I had to go see them live. I mean, who didn't want to take part in Dick N Dom in da Bungalow?! All my childhood expectations were met, though with slightly more swearing than I remembered at age 11. I'm also convinced Dom pointed at me at, though the infusion of alcohol may have left me slightly misguided.. but shouting BOGIES at the top of your lungs is just as fun aged 20.  

The 1975

Last but not least, I finally saw one of my favourite bands live. Ironically, it was only in 2016 I really started getting into their music after listening to their latest album. Also another fun fact, I went on my own! There seems to be a massive stigma about going to events by yourself, but why not? I got to listen to some of my favourite songs LIVE without being sat with someone who isn't remotely interested asking me when the set finishes, what time the next train is, why is Matty dancing like a fish stuck on land.. *yawn*. They sounded absolutely incredible and the lighting beautifully complemented the songs. It was certainly a visual masterpiece and even if you've only heard one of their songs, I certainly recommend going to see them live if you get the chance.

What were you favourite parts of this weird old year? Let me know.

Victoria x

3 Ways I Prep My Skin & Hair For Winter

Well, I suppose it is really officially winter now isn't it? In the UK at least. The weather has become substantially colder to the point where it's meant to snow? Brilliant news if you're a snow baby like me. No really, it snowed so much when my mum was in labour they weren't even sure if they'd make it to the hospital. ANYWAY.

However, one downside to the colder weather is the sh*t it does to your skin and hair. If you're one of those lucky people who's body isn't remotely affected by the elements then embrace it, because it's such a massive nuisance.

As I sit now and look and my cracked fingers which are bound to get inevitably worse as winter goes on, I thought I'd create a brief list on how I try and protect myself for the harsher months ahead.

Skin
Everyone who doesn't enjoy having pale and crusty hands over winter, say I.
If you're one of those unfortunate people like me who has fingers which make you look like part lizard when there's a hint of frost in the air, then come here and let me give you a virtual hug. 
One thing I do not enjoy, is crusty, dry and half bleeding skin. Which seems to be more prone to bouts of eczema when I'm stressed or when winter is coming. Nope, I will not stop quoting Game of Thrones/Sean Bean so there's no point in trying to stop me.

I have in the past I've also had my face become more oily around this time of year, yet I know for others it can become drier. So how do I combat this you cry? Well, it's simple really - invest in a very heavy duty moisturiser. Personal favourites for my hands and feet include E45 cream. You may not smell of roses or unicorns but it's brilliant at tackling issues for very intense skin conditions. 

Lush also has some seriously thirst quenching products for your skin, especially their hand creams. Having tried the Helping Hands moisturiser, I was so surprised by how long the cream stayed on my skin and how lovely and soft they felt afterwards. Also as you know with any Lush product, it's made with very natural and fresh ingredients so you won't be treating your skin with anything nasty and potentially harmful. 

Speaking of Lush, if you're finding that your body seems to find it hard to deal with the not so smooth transition to the colder environment - have a bath! Having a good old soak, especially around this time of year, is a brilliant way to unwind and an especially hot steamy bath can help sweat out any infections that you're likely to pick up. Of course you pick up bath bombs/melts anywhere, but since I've been really feeling the hype of Lush products lately, I'd really urge you to give a least one a go.

If you are trying to save for Christmas and are looking for something on the slightly cheaper side, there is also Palmer's Cocoa Butter which I have started to use recently.
People have been raving about Palmer's Cocoa Butter for years and it's no wonder. Whilst it may not be as thorough like creams such as E45, it still tackles the dry skin on my hands very well and the little tube is perfect for keeping in my bag so I can apply whilst I'm at work or just on the go. At £2.10 at Boots, I don't see how you can go wrong.

For anyone who is more concerned about different parts of their body such as their face - I highly recommend looking into brands such as Clinique who have a vast range of products for all skins types.

Hair
I have quite a strange predicament when it comes to my hair and winter. Though my scalp seems to become slightly oilier, probably due to all the artificial heat in the air and the multitude of hats I end up wearing so my ears don't drop off. I also find that my ends become drier, again with all the artificial heat and what not - don't quote me and that as I could be talking complete rubbish. 

Head & Shoulders is always staple if my scalp is on the slightly oily side, but unfortunately it's not great for dyed hair as it can strip away at the colour with each wash - so watch out! But if an oily scalp isn't an issue for you, but dry ends are then let me just say three words. Leave.In.Conditioner.

A personal favourite which I have been using for a long time now is the Frizz Ease - Miraculous Recovery by John Frieda. Oh boy, does this thing condition. I use the product about once a week - the recommended amount, leave it in for 5 minutes, wash out and the results are just astounding. Be gone any dry frizzy ends and hello soft sleek hair!

I mean, my barnet will always be fairly unruly but it's a significant improvement from the mess it can otherwise be. There's lots of leave in conditioners on the market so look around. Some are better for dyed hair, others have heat protectant and well yeah, you get the picture.

Hopefully this post will help at least one person with similar problems to mine. You're in my thoughts for the perilous months ahead.

Victoria

Lush Halloween HAUL

I'll just comment on the elephant in the room. I haven't posted anything in an ENTIRE MONTH. I know, I know - I'm sorry okay? Changing work schedules has left me in a bit of a spin, but it's fine. Do you know why? Because I still post weekly on my YouTube channel? No! Because we're edging towards the best time of year (imo). October/November/December and for me January because it's my birthday month, are all very exciting times of the year. 

So Vicky, what's the best way to get into the swing of things since Halloween is now approaching? That's right - a Lush haul!

Monster's Ball

I'll be honest, I haven't always seen the appeal of Lush in the past. Don't get me wrong, I love their ethical values with regards to not testing on animals and all their products are fresh and kind to skin. But I'm a big shower person. Yes I know they don't just sell bath bombs, or as my gran likes to call them 'sex bombs' - don't ask.

I like a quick, no fuss shower so I can get on with the more important stuff. Like watching TV or online shopping. You know, the BIG things.

But since the colder weather has started to creep in and the temperature in the UK has plummeted, I enjoy a weekly bath to help look after my skin during the colder months. 

Pumpkin

Plus it's also an excuse to buy more Halloween related products, cough.

Boo

All the products I picked up are bath bombs or melts, because nothing else encapsulates Halloween quite like sparkly orange water.

So far I have only tried Monster's Ball which gives off a lovely floral scent, which is quite sweet at the same time. I'd say it smells quite a lot like roses crumpled up and mixed with sugar - but take from that what you will.

I'm also eager to try Sparkly Pumpkin because I'm a MASSIVE fan of all things glitter, I'm a winter baby so it comes with the territory. Though not Halloween related, I also can't wait to try Autumn Leaf as it looks very beautiful and fresh.

Monster's Ball in water

I'll leave a link to the Lush Halloween collection here so you can see what other enticingly spooky themed products they have.

Let me know if you've tried any of the Lush Halloween products this year and comment your favourite!

Victoria

TV Show Recommendations #4

If you've not heard about this Netflix show, have you been living under a rock? It's probably one of the hottest shows out there right now and with good reason!

I recently finished the first series after a few days of binge watching, yes it really is that good. Oh one more thing, the show is also ANOTHER period drama. Do I have a problem? Absolutely. My only defence here is that instead of the series looking at gangs or even upper class folk, there is a major Sci-Fi element. 

I'll hold my hands up right now, I'm really not even that into Sci-Fi shows/movies. Generally my only exceptions are shows like Doctor Who and superhero films. Anything else regarding aliens/space? No thank you. It's not that I actively have an intent to dislike them, I just find a lot of them are not for me.

This is why I felt compelled to write a post on this show. 

The series is set in 1983, in a fictional town in America called Hawkins. The story begins with a group of young boys and the events that occur after one of them goes missing. Along the way, strange things begin to happen with the inclusion of a girl with telekinetic powers, a strange military operated science laboratory and an investigation which goes beyond what the towns police chief could ever imagine.

The show has many references to '80s pop culture including games, films and music of the time which is what I believe really gives the series an edge over a lot of over shows that are out there now.

Also whoever cast Winona Ryder as the missing boy's mother is an absolute genius. Who better to have such a big role in a show, than a late '80s major film star. 

I can't delve too much into the different characters without giving some of the plot away, but the kids they chose to play the main characters are utterly brilliant. Some child actors can come off as a bit cringey due to lack of experience, but the relationships with their friends and family come across as very genuine and engaging to watch. 

If you are yet to watch this show and are a fan of fantasy/drama then what are you waiting for? 

It's that popular it has already been renewed for another series next year. There are some 'scary' elements and people who are easily squeamish may have to look away, but otherwise, have fun wishing you were a young telekinetic skinhead.

Victoria

5 Reasons to Look Forward to Autumn

I'd just like to state that this post may depress some people, as unfortunately summer is in fact coming to a close. September is just around the corner and as the cooler weather and darker nights will start to creep in, you may want to brace yourselves because:

You may no longer be able to leave the house with the sun beating down on your face and shorts are certainly not an option, unless you wish to contract hypothermia.

But have no fear, as I have constructed a list as to why Autumn isn't so bad after all.

Nature 

Whilst you may not appreciate the pouring rain that is associated with Autumn, there's just something about the smell in the air that is caused by the changing of the seasons. Now that may just be wet pavements, but that earthy scent paired with the occasional bonfire leaves an instantly recognisable aroma. This combined with the visually pleasing colours surrounding the colder months with the icy oranges, cool purples and crisp brown falling leaves, creates a perfect transition to the ever impending cooler weather. If that image doesn't help, there's always the fact insects go into hibernation so no more pesky fly's in your room!

TV Shows

Alright yes, I'll admit it. The main reason I'm excited for Autumn to well and truly kick in is because of a certain TV show which I have blogged about in the past. That's right, I am talking about The Walking Dead. The series starts again this October and as many other shows have finished for the summer, I can't wait to agonise about the fate of my favourite characters for another series. I just want to Daryl to be okay, is that to much to ask?! Even the X Factor has started again. I mean it is pretty terrible now, but I still find it a staple for my winter watching.

Halloween

Who could forget one of the biggest events that happens this season - spoopy time! 

I mean, who doesn't love getting dressed up once a year and scaring children? Well, maybe not the last part but it's a great time of year for children and adults alike. Kids get to compare costumes and share sweets, whilst the rest of us over the age of 18 get to mix up some very rancid looking concoctions and pretend it's our own alcoholic potion. What's not to love? Whether you're carving a pumpkin or just watching lots of films to do with witches and magic, it's a brilliant way to have fun this Autumn.

Autumn fashion

Yes, by fashion I mean lots of cosy jumpers, boots and not shaving your legs for three months. Okay so that may be a slight exaggeration, unless you are going as a werewolf this Halloween? Either way, the cold air means that jeans or thick tights are your best friend and do you know what? That's alright by me. Just stock up on lots of dark colours and you'll be winter ready in no time.

Bonfire Night

Ah, who could forget this English tradition? Well, maybe if you're not English of course but I'm sure Wikipedia will fill you in if not! There's nothing that screams British more than burning a wooden dummy that represents a man who tried, and failed to blow up a politically associated building. Shove on a pair of wellies and get down to your nearest firework display and hear everyone scream with delight. Apart from young children, they may just be screaming in terror. If you're not into the whole 'leaving the house' thing, you could alternatively just watch from your window. Luckily for me, I just hop over the road to my grandparents, eat a pork pie and mushy peas and watch my dad set off a mini display in the garden. It makes me hungry just thinking about it.

On a side note, if you do have pets make sure they are safely indoors and away from any loud noises which may frighten them.

Let me know if/why you're looking forward to Autumn and if I have missed anything out!

Victoria

Quick & Easy No Bake Summer Desserts

Alright I'll go ahead and admit it. I'm still trying to squeeze as much out of summer as I can, the lack of hot weather may be the only issue here. It's been a while since I last mentioned baking and what's he best way to envision a lovely sunny day in the UK? Why strawberries and cream of course. This picture springs to mind specifically. Do you know what isn't fun to do on a hot day? Getting anywhere near an oven. So what solution have I created to trick myself into thinking the UK is still as hot as Spain? That's right, a video on no bake desserts! 

As you may have noticed, I'm not a baking expert and a Mary Berry protege I certainly am not. So I prefer quick and easy recipes that won't break the bank. In fact all of the ingredients combined cost me less that £20, winning! 

Looking for sugar free recipes? Yeah this probably won't be for you but I do include a vast amount of strawberries so that counts for something right?

Victoria