5 Good Things

After reading >Caroline's< post about 5 good things that are making her happy at the moment, I felt inspired to reflect on the things that are making me happy given the current climate, social distancing and whilst currently writing this, the UK is in week 4 of the lock down.

Spending more time with the family - The one positive from this situation, is definitely being able to spend more time with those that aren't around so much. Although some people are still working from home, whilst others aren't working at all, this is definitely something I am truly grateful for - we all have each other.

The weather - It has just been amazing. Reading in the garden, doing a little work out in the garden, having a kick about in the garden, has got me SO very excited for the summer months, when most of my spare time is spent outside. Don't get me wrong, I am 100% a cosy night in type of person, but I do love the brighter evenings to go for a walk, and to explore somewhere new with days off.

Homemade frothy coffee - If you aren't following hayleighjm on Instagram, then firstly you must, but secondly, you must recreate her frothy whipped coffee recipe. It is insane. Lots of ice, cold shaken up oat milk, topped with this frothy coffee goodness has been making my days brighter. It's definitely the same recipe as the viral TikTok one.

Disney+ - The long awaited Disney+ has been welcomed with open arms. I am a massive lover of Disney films at the best of time, but having the option to watch the newer films as well as the older ones (The Parent Trap, Lizzie Maguire and Cheaper By The Dozen!!!!), my life is now complete. Having Netflix and Amazon Prime as well, it has made the task of picking a film a lot harder, but it's so nice to have the choice to watch something Disney.

Easter weekend - I cannot remember the last time I was able to spend the whole of a bank holiday weekend with family, since working at all. Not only was the weather gorgeous, we had a BBQ on the Saturday and a traditional roast lunch on the Sunday and ate both outside. I love eating outside, there is something about it that makes me think I am in a different country. We even managed an Easter egg hunt and a long walk up the hill, which we all enjoyed. Such a lovely weekend and one that I will cherish.

What good thing are you grateful for at the moment?

Amber X 

One Year On

I know this post technically doesn't fit in with the 12 days of Christmas theme, but I really wanted to include it. So, a year ago today, I published my first blog post. It wasn't a massive post, a rambly/chatty post or even a beauty related post, but it was the first thing I posted here on my blog. I am genuinely surprised that a year on, I am still enjoying photographing, scheduling, writing and posting a blog post basically every week, just as much as I did in the very beginning. Blogging had been something that I was considering starting waaay before I finally made the decision to just go for it. I'm sure you can relate when you want to start something new, but are a little nervous and apprehensive before doing so. All it takes is one sporadic and impulsive moment, and you can do anything.

The numbers side of having a blog has never been a big concern of mine, but never would I have ever imagined that my little blog would have got to where it is now from posting this time last year.  I see my blog as a hobby of mine, that I like to do for myself, and when I want some down time... It blows my mind that people take the time out of their day to post a comment, or even have a look at what I have written. It's just little old me?! It's crazy. So many good things have happened this year, and I have so much to look back on and feel a sense of accomplishment. My blog being one of those good things. I wanted to end this by saying thank-you to you for reading this post, to those who leave me nothing but lovely comments on each and every post, and even to those who just have a little nose and then leave...

It means a lot.

Thank-you.

Amber X 

Autumn Appreciation

 There are many reasons why I want to experience and cherish all of life's little things when this time of the year rolls round. Not only are the changes in colours and tones of our scenery beautiful, it also can't help but make you feel cosy. With all of this excitement upon us, here are some reasons to appreciate the Autumnal months. 

Beauty 

Autumn is the season of the bold berry lip and gold, copper and cranberry eyeshadow shades. Palettes that contain nothing but these shades are right up my street, and I'm excited for all of the A/W releases. My dark lipsticks cannot wait to come out of hibernation and stop collecting dust. I am looking forward to not having to think my day through and ponder over which foundation will work best in the humid climates. Gone are the hot, sticky days!

Fashion

Dressing in the colder months of the year is so much easier for me. It requires no deliberating over whether a jacket is needed when leaving the house, and jeans can be worn on a daily basis.  Oversized or not, jumpers will always be an autumn staple. Soft, cuddly, woollen, scratchy, cropped, or thin, jumpers are made for the colder seasons. Scarfs are also another way of keeping warm and snug when in times of need. Being able to be comfortable and cosy without sweltering and feeling as if you're going to pass out, is a small victory in my eyes. 

Food 

Hearty, warm and wholesome meals are another reason why I really love autumn. Soups, stews, and cottage pie are some of my favourites. Nothing beats eating foods that make you feel warm within when it is sharp and cold outside. Also, cold weather means there are endless excuses for hot chocolates with all of the cream and marshmallows imaginable. 

Early Nights and Fairy Lights 

Early nights are great at the best of times, but now as darkness creeps up on the day earlier and earlier each time, I see it as even more reason to get into bed earlier. I am at my happiest when fluffy blankets and warm fairy lights are involved. 

Traditions

Bonfire night and Halloween are always days that I look forward too. Carving out pumpkins, buying all of the best sweets to give to 'trick or treater's', getting dressed up and having our faces painted is always something I will always remember from my childhood. There is such a contagious excitement that surrounds Halloween. Watching fireworks on bonfire night, especially when it is cold, and seeing the different coloured lights reflecting on people's happy faces is something I love. 

What do you love about Autumn?

Amber X